Die Data Miner der bekannten Internetseite “wowhead” konnten in den Daten der gestern Abend gestarteten Alpha der kommenden Erweiterung “Battle for Azeroth” unter anderem eine Reihe von Dialogen für unterschiedliche NPCs des Spiels entdecken, die für die Levelphase in diesem Addon bestimmt sind und hauptsächlich in den Quests von Zandalar und Kul Tiras eine Verwendung finden werden. Auch wenn diese Dialoge keine bisher unbekannt gewesenen Geheimnisse aus der Hintergrundgeschichte dieser Erweiterung enthüllen und in den meisten Fällen nur einen einseitigen Blickwinkel auf bestimmte Momente im Spiel liefern, so vermitteln diese Texte den Lesern aber dennoch bereits einen recht guten ersten Eindruck davon, was genau in dem nächsten Addon auf sie zukommt und welchen Gestalten sie im Laufe der Anfangszeit von Battle for Azeroth begegnen könnten. Wer die äußerst langen Texte aus den Spieldaten nicht komplett durchlesen möchte, der findet folgend praktischerweise auch noch eine kurze Zusammenfassung der angesprochenen Themen. (Spoilerwarnung) Informationen aus den Dialogen: Sylvanas setzt die Seuche gegen die Allianz ein. Die Vulpera sind die Sklaven der Sethrak und die Spieler müssen sie retten. Der Angriff auf Teldrassil startet im Teufelswald und zieht sich von dort aus zur Dunkelküste. Malfurion leitete eine Armee der Nachtelfen zur Verteidigung von Teldrassil. Um Saurfang aus Sturmwind zu retten, dringen die Spieler zusammen mit Thalyssra und Rokhan in diese Stadt ein. Die Naga von Azshara greifen Kul Tiras an. Der Händler Griftah wird erneut auftauchen. Jaina Prachtmeer wird bei ihrer Rückkehr sehr negativ von ihrer Mutter empfangen. Sie wird verbannt und Spieler landen im Gefängnis. In Kul Tiras müssen sich die Spieler mit viel Hexerei, Hexenzirkeln und unheimlichen Kindern auseinandersetzen. Die Ankunft der Spieler in Zandalar wird als gutes Omen gedeutet. Eine der Visionen berichtet von der Wiederbelebung eines früheren Freundes. Die Venuture Company startet mit dem Abbau von Azerite. Maximillian von Nordhain taucht in Kul Tiras auf. Die Dialoge beschreiben den Krieg zwischen Rastakhan und Zul, die Aufgaben der Loa und die Probleme mit den Bluttrollen. Die Dialoge: Battle for Lordaeron: Is that all you’ve got, Banshee Queen?! ——– Ahhhh, what have we here? Has the Lion of Stormwind finally come out to play? You have no idea what you’re up against, boy king. We have only just begun! Siege Engine ready fer action! King Anduin is leading the assault! Push past the reserves and secure the battlefield! Godspeed, heroes! Brothers and sisters of the Alliance, hear me now! We are standing the precipice of glory! We stand as one in solidarity for those who were lost at the battle for Teldrassil – for the families who have lost their homelands. With this act of war, it is clear that we must fight for the survival of our next hundred generations. FOR THE ALLIANCE! The blight is far too dangerous, my king! We must focus on the living! VICTORY TO THE FORSAKEN! The dead are rising! We must evacuate the wounded! This is the end, Sylvanas will finally answer for her crimes. Champions to my side… The Alliance gains no victory if the Warchief escapes. Capturing her is the only way to win this war. The horde is falling back again? What is their strategy here? Soldiers of the Horde, hear me! As you know, SI:7 spies have been lurking in our cities. They are among us now as we speak. The Undercity is not safe. We need your help evacuating its citizens! We’ve isolated their location to the Mage District and locked down the rest of the Undercity. You are to flush them out of hiding, eliminate them, and get our civilians to safety in Orgrimmar. Lok’tar ogar! So be it. Champions – with me. Mekkatorque, backtrack through the keep with the rest of our forces, and station them at Brill. Be ready to strike on my command. You are right. Sylvanas did not have much time to prepare for this attack, but we cannot underestimate her. Everyone, fall into position. We strike on my command! Genn, I need you to cover our flank. It is too risky to funnel everyone through the side of the keep at once; there could be traps. Yes, Anduin. I will watch for her arrival. Alleria, thank the Light you’ve made it! And just in time, it would seem. Mekkatorque, are you ready for battle? I was born ready! I brought some extra machines as backup. Feel free to give’m a spin! Jaina, Genn – help me with Nathanos and Lor’themar. Alleria, take the rest of our troops and focus on routing the army! You got it! Champions – with me! My machines are at your command! That army is enormous… Give the word and I will abscond us to safety. We must be willing to fight! To die for what we believe in! Time is up for you, Prince Anduin! ALLIANCE, HOLD YOUR GROUND! Our siege machines are lost; we have not yet breached the wall. My king, I… Father, help me. I need your guidance. I need… a miracle. Your army is bested and it is only a matter of time before our siege towers bring the walls down around you! Surrender now, and stop the bloodshed! Vulpera: Glory and honor to you, $p. There are powerful entities down there, $p. Let wisdom guide your strikes and your choices. Whatever’s going on down there, just take the water and get out. Don’t get involved. Make it flashy, if you can. We want to really impress Sumber. Just look for big puddles of water. There’s not many in Vol’dun. They should be easy to spot. Ack! This water moves so quickly. I can’t control it! I am impressed. You were wise to bring me this essence. You’re welcome, Sumber. My friend and I are happy to aid you however we can. I infused a portion of my power into this totem for you to wield. Use it wisely. Thank you, Sumber! I want to learn everything you can teach a small vulpera like me. Your size is of no import. Your spirit is bigger than any I’ve met in these hills. Every sethrak killed is ten vulpera saved. We don’t outnumber the sethrak, so we gotta outsmart them. HAH! It be working, keep stabbin’! A sethrak skull will send the perfect message. The vulpera are not weak. They will fear us! The sethrak stole one of our banners? That gives me an idea! Now they will know who is killing them. The vulpera! The vulpera have been slaves for too long. “Look around you. These are the abused bodies of my family, my friends, my kin. The Faithless have enslaved countless of my people and forced us to work and fight for them. For generations, we’ve suffered, powerless to stop it. But Nisha and Kiro have shown us we can resist. At night, we sneak into the slave camp below and rescue the most vulnerable vulpera. We bring them back here until we can secure safe passage out to the dunes, where we have caravans waiting to take them. It’s dangerous, but would you do any less for your people?” “Sure, we’ve got vulpera at key points along our escape route. Just pop out of the cave and head West. Cross the bridge into the ruins and you’re home free. If you need to sneak back in, that’s the route.” “Nisha’s stirring up trouble down at the slave camp. Just head West out of this cave, and head down the first ramp on your right. When in doubt, listen for the sounds of sethrak dying and go toward ’em. She’ll be close by.” “Kiro’s hard to keep track of. Always on the move, always working on some big plan. Last I heard, he was heading down into the gulch to steal supplies or sabotage the cannons or something.” Any further bids for the vulpera? They will serve you well! Get your own vulpera here, plenty of energy! You won’t get another chance at a vulpera quite like these! Get yer vulpera steaks, freshly cooked! Bring a vulpera head, get a discount on your first purchase! You will no longer enslave the vulpera! The vulpera are lowborn, you only exist to serve my empire! Then prepare to die by this lowborn’s hand! Burning of Teldressil Wisps are dangerous only in large numbers, can we kill enough them Warchief? Not enough to matter. But we can disperse them. Saurfang, take some of our troops and go into Felwood. Find or make path over the mountain into Darkshore, but leave the siege weapons under my command. We will squeeze Malfurion from both sides. How many smugglers do you know, Blightcaller? I beg your pardon? I am not so naive to believe that Everlook gets all of its cargo via ship routes from Azshara. There has to be a hidden route somewhere through Felwood. Most smugglers will not want the attention of the high overlord, but I do know of somebody who is more loyal to the horde than their profits. Then it is decided. Saurfang, Nathanos – you are to leave at once. $n, let’s keep the remainder of Malfurion’s army busy.Anything for the Warchief. I will gather the guards to clear the docks immediately. Lok’tar, friend. Two hundred soldiers with the Warchief, you say? I will prepare the outpost for her arrival. The Warchief needs rations and lodging for at least two hundred soldiers. The will arrive momentarily. We must make room for the arrival of the Warchief’s fleet. Can you clear the docks? Commander, the Warchief asks that you prepare your outpost for an incoming army of at least two hundred. I said I’d do anything to avenge Teldrassil. Pretending to be a troll, evidently, is anything. Here’s my report. Can you believe some people think trolls and night elves are related? This has been an awful experience. Here’s my report. I will not fail the Alliance. Even if I had to sit in mud for three days to get this. Please, take my report. Let no one say I gave nothing for the war effort. Here’s my report. Escape from Stormwind Listen up. We won’t be in contact once we’re inside. You, Thalyssra, and Rokhan will infiltrate the Stockades and extract the prisoners. Our scouts located a hidden entrance in the park. The tauren and I will cover your escape. We have no other objectives. There will be no reinforcements. If you want to live, there can be no witnesses. There’s our way out. Get to that ship once you have the prisoners. I’ll find you. Good luck. Deh 7th Legion be here. Whoever we breakin’ out, deh humans not takin’ chances. I be goin’ on ahead to find deh prisoners. Cover my back. We will draw their attention. Be careful. I t’ink you best be takin’ dis. We should pause a moment. Surrender, and I will return you to the Stockades where you belong. There you will await the King’s justice. Respectfully, we have a boat to catch. Then perish. Let us not be hasty. Surely you haven’t failed to notice that your city is burning. You can finish us, mere pawns of the Horde, or you can quench the flames that will otherwise burn Stormwind to the ground. Your choice. No… it can’t be. Tick tock. The future is uncertain. Come. We must away to Zuldazar. We can discuss it on the way, Highness. Seeing as how this is my ship and you at present have no other way to leave, I suppose you will need to adjust your plans. I think not. I have orders to return you to the Warchief directly. Azshara and Naga Deliver the letter to Nathanos Blightcaller at the Horde Embassy, in Dazar’alor.Queen Azshara is plotting with someone on the Zanchuli Council. Her nefarious naga are not randomly attacking the coast, they are being directed. Nathanos should know about this. Sssecure the relicsss for the queen! Desssstroy anything that emerges from the temple! Crush anything that resssissstsss! For the glory of the Queen! Newt claims this rocket makes a safe one way vehicle. The flimsy construction suggests otherwise. The Feathered Vipers are known for their aggressive infestations, but this is getting out of hand! Destroy their eggs to keep their population in check. Their numbers will recover, and quickly. They always have. Thank you for your efforts. I have never heard of the Ring of Tides, but it must be powerful if Azshara is sending an army to retrieve it. We will not be safe here much longer. Azshara, don’t abandon me… You will fall under my sword! I’ll carve you to ribbons! I’ll shoot you through the heart! I’ll blast you to pieces! Die! Darkness take you! No one escapes the maelstrom! No! I will not be defeated! Azshara, aid me! Ahahahaha! I am unstoppable! For Queen Azshara! Your flesh will feed the depths! For the queen! To the abyss with you! Perish, landwalker! I’ll taste your blood, landwalker! Queen Azshara, I implore you. Grant me the power to bring Borlaus to its knees! Looks as if Boralus is already in its death throes. Remember, the primary objective is recovering Lady Ashvane’s weapons. Though while we’re here, may as well see what other treasures we can find. I’ll circle above and call out anything that looks interesting. I’ve spotted one of Kul Tiran’s finest rallying his troops in the courtyard ahead. Defeating him will cause disorder among their ranks, making it easier for you to move through the city. Ha! Look at them scatter. Without their leadership, these humans are worthless. I’ve spotted Lady Ashvane in the next district. Hurry and you may be able to cut her off. I will never surrender the city to you, Ashvane. Surrender? Ha! You misunderstand, my lady. I want you to watch while your city burns. Why would I save a failure, Ashvane? I see now that entertaining her delusions of taking this city were a waste of my efforts, a mistake I will now gladly rectify. You will serve as an example of what happens to those who invoke my wrath. Let Azeroth tremble at my power! Lord Admiral, we must get you to safety now! A massive tidal wave is approaching the city! So Lady Ashvane is in league with Azshara? Interesting. Though it changes little about our objective. You’ll have to remove that beast from your path if you hope to catch Ashvane. I’ve spotted Ashvane’s entourage crossing the bridge. In order to catch them you’ll need to remove a pair of troublesome naga from your path. Ashvane has retreated to the castle and has nowhere left to run. Time to end this hunt. Well done claiming the azerite weapons, but we need to move quickly. A tidal wave is rushing towards the city. It’s time to leave Boralus to its fate. Seas… swallow you… My life for Azshara! Abyss take you… My queen… I’ve… failed… The tide… ebbs… Griftah “My kind are keepers and collectors of knowledge. It is my job to ensure our discoveries are properly archived.” Griftah’s guarantee: Don’t ask questions, get a discount! Dis totem’s flame has burned bright ever since King Rastakhan first sat on da throne. Own dis piece of Zandalari history today! Spy on ya enemies, keep an eye on ya friends, sneak a peak at the royal chambers… all with dis incredible whispering wisps totem! If Vol’jin had had his trusty invulnerability totem with him on da Broken Shore, he’d still be wit’ us today. Don’t make da same mistake! Blessings and shouts are outdated! Only Azerite can give you da strength needed for today’s dangerous and demanding world. Drink bottled azerite today! Amazing amulets! Incredible curios! I got special deals for top-notch traders! Psst, $p, ya ever wanted to punch someone in da face but knew ya couldn’t? I got da solution fer ya right here! Island Expeditions Loot and plunder, ha ha! Dorp, shoot anything that moves funny. Pete, find those Alliance scum, and give em’ the ol’ Sneaky Pete. And get that azerite! “Your goal on an Island Expedition is to collect Azerite. A group of Horde forces will be collecting Azerite as well. The first group to 4000 wins. Rare spawns, treasure chests, questgivers, and many more things will grant you Azerite. They appear on your map when you are close to them, and are outlined in the world. Shrines, food, and objects around the island are clickable and will help you fight. Some elites and rare elites on the island are difficult and may kill you. Group up for them!” Jaina’s Story Our enemies remain one step ahead of us. We must close that gap. The time has come to call upon old allies in distant lands, and to see the true might of the Alliance made whole again. Pack your bags and report to Stormwind Keep immediately. You’re headed for Kul Tiras. The Horde has just run wild through Stormwind and you want to send me home?! Underestimating our enemy has already cost us enough lives. There is now a more important task at hand, Jaina. Something only you can do. My king, the Lady Jaina’s ship is ready to set sail. Thank you, admiral. This hero will be joining her. Kul Tiras must pledge their fleet to the Alliance. Can I count on you, Jaina? I will see it done. I will do anything to defeat the Horde. [Loading screen -> IGC sail through Boralus main canal & meet Katherine scene.] Boralus. The capital of Kul Tiras – and a safe port of call in unsafe waters. The outer wall hosts a marketplace that is second to none. Merchants from all over Azeroth dock here to trade their goods. For most visitors, the market is all they ever see of Boralus. Beyond the Great Gate lies the city proper, and very few outsiders are allowed inside. That’s Proudmoore Keep at the end of the channel. Imposing and unbreakable. Like my father for whom it was named. I must admit… it feels good to be home. [IGC – Katherine rejects Jaina and exiles her. Player is arrested.] [Player wakes up in Boralus Prison. ~10m of gameplay as they break out with Flynn. Taelia brings them to a safehouse in the harbor.] This… this is not good. Sir! I don’t see any sign of Notley, and the trail is impossible to follow in this storm! Curse it! We’ll have to continue without him… wait, what is that? This looks like ice magic… Jaina must have come this way! We must press deeper into the forest! Form up! The beasts bar the way. Cut through them! There appears to be a structure in the distance. That must be where Jaina was headed! “What..? My apologies. I… misspoke. So you are allied with house Proudmoore, then? I imagine you’ve come here for news of Jaina, then. There’s no other reason you’d come this far north. Well, you may have arrived just in time.” “What is this, a mainlander come to visit the wall? No doubt you want to get a glimpse of the cursed land of Drustvar without facing any of its real dangers? Go home, $Gboy:girl;. This is no place for travelers.” “I’ll admit, your courage surprises me, mainlander. Even though you are not from this place, you choose to put yourself in great peril to save one of ours. I only hope your blade is as steady as your heart. We leave on your word.” “Oh, we don’t get many mainlanders here at the wall. Are you looking for supplies?” Marshal Reade sends orders to join his expedition to find Jaina. I suspected the marshal might be here for that reason, though I’d keep your voice down when mentioning that name around here… If he has need of me, I’ll follow his orders, but it would be dereliction to leave without thining out these beasts a hair. Take up a crossbow and assist me, mainlander! Hold your fire, it looks like we’ve got them on the run. Reward, you say? Well, that changes things… I’ll just… borrow some of the things we’ll need here… That should do it! Tell Marshal Reade that Quartermaster Notley is reporting for duty! Halt! Where exactly do you think you’re going with my men, Marshal? Captain Denholm, I have conscripted these men for a special mission. I order you to stand aside and allow us to pass! By order of the queen, none shall pass this gate. Not even you. We don’t have time for this! Soldiers, stand with me! Enough, I yield! You can pass, Reade, but the queen will hear of this! You’ll never set foot in Boralus again! That is a risk I must take, Captain. Soldiers, on me. Jaina!? She is the purpose of this expedition? But that’s treason! Here we go, this be the path! I have a feeling they’re not going to open that gate for us when we return… We will find a way, Mace, once we find Jaina. Thoughts, Yorrick? It’s likely she would’ve followed the road to look for shelter. Very well, that’s where we will begin. Guess we’re not going out this way. Let’s try the other side. Let’s find the head jailer for this cell block and get his key! Told him he’d regret lockin’ me up. Now where’s my stuff… Mages, let us return to camp. We have much to study! House Proudmoore runs the military. The city guard and marines all answer to Lord Admiral Katherine Proudmoore. Technically, she rules the entire nation. House Ashvane controls the nation’s wealth. The Ashvane Company holds all of the official state contracts for trade and production. Pretty much everybody works for them in one way or another. Even the gangs. The Proudmoores are done for! And when Lady Ashvane takes the throne, I’ll command her fleet! I am ready to make my decision. I grew up hearing tales of the great kingdom of Lordaeron. And tales of its fall.$B$BI want to see it with my own eyes. Everything here changed when Daelin Proudmoore was defeated.$B$BJaina must have had her reasons… right? Cyrus has looked after me since I was a child.$B$BI wish he would recognize that I’m not a child anymore. There’s an old saying here in Kul Tiras.$B$BWhen something goes wrong, old sailors will shrug it off and proclaim: “You cannot change the winds.”$B$BI hate that saying. Katherine would see us all drown! I will throw you to the waves! Kul Tiras has no need of the Alliance! They will find your body in the harbor! Jaina! I never lost faith that when the hour grew darkest, you would stand with us once more. Kul Tiras From the sewers of Freehold comes a tortollan brigand who makes it his duty to “turtley” hurt you. He is the Dynamo of Defense… the Sergeant of Shell Shock… the Hellion in a Half-Shell… Ludwig! Without further ado, here comes a dangerous duo from across the sea. A peerless pair of gladiatorial beasts that strikes fear in the hearts of the most stalwart warriors. The Hungry Hungry Harbingers of Doom… the Brutal Bisect of Blubber and Birds… the Deadly Double Destroyers… Gryff and Stevin! Amazing! These sweaty scallywags found a way to best Gryff and Stevin! There is only one challenger left, and he needs no introduction. Our champion that sleeps with the fishes… literally! The Freehold Fanatic… the Master of the Jagged Jawbone Jab… the Powerful Pugilist Predator… Trothak the Shark Puncher! “<This man matches the description of Cyril White, the mayor of Fallhaven. Unfortunately, he is in no state to help you right now. The mayor, along with the rest of the residents of Fallhaven, appears to be under the effects of some unfamiliar magic. While still breathing, he is unable to move or respond. You’ll need to find a way to break this curse if you want his help in contacting House Waycrest.>” “<The effigy looming in the town’s center pulses with dark energy similar to that which has entrapped the villagers. It may be acting as a focus to hold the spell in place. If it could be destroyed, the spell might be broken.>” The man you are looking for is named Carentan. His shop is upstairs, at the south end of town. Now, this is important: The scroll you’re trading for is sealed with green wax. It MUST be green! I suppose I’ll return to Boralus empty-handed for now. Meet me there with the scroll and we shall work out your compensation. That shon of a wench took off with our -hic- jewel. We shpent all that time carvin’ it out thish shtupid thing and whatsh he do? -hic-$b$bHe jush leavesh in the middle of the -hic- night. We were gonna shell that thing and be shtinkin’ rich! -hic-$b$b<Salton takes another swig from his flagon.>$b$bShay, you have any gold on you, $gmishter:mish;? Where’s this person who took the jewel? Haha, that’sh the funny part. Lishen, he went and got himshelf -hic- caught! Shtupid shcallywag tried to kill shomeone.$b$bThey got him over in the prishon with the resht of the trash -hic-. If he’sh shtill got it on him, I’m willin’ -hic- to bet the only way you’ll get it from him ish by pryin’ it from -hic- hish dead handsh.$b$bShay, you won’t try to kill me too, will ya? -hic- I ain’t never done nothing to ya.$b$bLishten, I’ll jusht go shomewhere else and shober -hic- up. Shailor’s honor, haha. Nope, don’t worry about me, $gmishter:mish;. -hic- I’ll jusht be on my way now… uh… where the hell am I?$b$bLishten, let me just shober up here for a bit and by the -hic- time you’re back, I’ll have cleared out. I shwear. Mal-function! Health depleting. Require assistance. Primary targeting f-f-failing… System power running low. If you had seen what I seen, you do deh same. Come inside. I show yah! Children of the sea, today is the dawn of a new age for us all. No more will we work our fields and build our ships for the haughty Boralus elite to give nothing in return. House Stormsong must take control of this shattered kingdom and restore it to glory! We must work as one and muster our strength. Kul Tiras will forever belong to its people! Our mighty tidesages shall guide us all to victory with the very power of the sea itself! Together we shall return to the tides. Together we shall be powerful again! <Choose to help Longfang and end the stalemate.> Bella, I’ll need you to follow this one and carry the supplies they find, okay? Yah! Ride to Arom’s Stand, Bella! I can’t believe we’re here! My father used to tell me stories about this place. It contains an ancient secret of our house, from back when the Waycrests first settled this land. We just need to find the entrance! That’s it! The way is opening! Long ago, when Kul Tiras was first settled, our people encountered a savage group of warmongering barbarians. They called themselves the Drust. Drustvar was their ancestral home. It was from here that they launched endless raids into our fledgeling hamlets. This carried on for countless years, until the ancestors of House Waycrest decided that something had to be done. Wait… what was that? Look out! I’m sorry, $c. The coven’s magic must be disturbing the spirits of the ancient Drust. We’ll have to be careful. My ancestors fought against stone constructs much like these in their war against the Drust. The Waycrests have always been hearty folk, but the Drust’s magic was strong. We were losing the war… Wait… look out! Thank you, $c. I thought that one had me for a moment. As I was saying, the tide of the war shifted when our scholars began to uncover weaknesses in the Drust’s magic. They compiled what they learned into a treatise on weapons and tactics that could be used to defeat the barbarians. Armed with this knowledge, our men started driving the Drust back into their mountain holds. Hmm… It looks like some rubble blocks the way ahead. Can you clear the way? Here it is… the last resting place of the Order of Embers. Are you ready to revive ancient history? If you are prepared to follow the path of the Order, take up the book. The knowledge within will grant you, as well as our forces, the edge needed to destroy the foul coven that plagues our land. Thus is reborn the Order of Embers. Now then, I believe we have some witches to kill. Tell Marshal Reade that Quartermaster Notley is reporting for duty! Very well, I’ll ready the supplies posthaste. Wisdom would favor waiting for the storm to clear before venturing into such hostile territory. However, time is often the enemy of wisdom. Thank you for your assistance, as well as relaying my orders. I will report to Marshal Reade. Welcome to Fletcher’s Hollow, $c. Sorry for the mess, but we’ve got a bit of a wicker problem on our hands. Unless you plan on lending a hand, I suggest you move along. Cagney fished this girl out of the water with his ferry – said she was trying to escape the foundry.$B$BDoesn’t surprise me one bit that the Ashvane Company is putting kids to work. I was barely older than her when the gangs in Boralus had me picking pockets and distracting guards for them.$B$BIn this world, the weaker you are, the more people take advantage of you. Send those kids to the western edge of the foundry. I’ll wait there and make sure nobody tries to snatch ’em. Meet me there when you’ve got some information on those shipments. Never thought I’d be stickin’ my neck out again for Cyrus.$B$BCourse I also never thought either of us would live this long! <Peeling back the wrapping, you see the glint of gunmetal within the crate.> <The unmistakable scent of gunpowder wafts from this crate.> <Thousands of balls of musket shot are bundled carefully inside this crate.> <The cutlasses in this crate have a familiar sheen on their blades.> <You see hundreds of fuses leading into small vials of glimmering powder.> Lord Brannon and the others have departed for Stormsong Valley to warn of the corruption within the priests. I will bring the information back to Boralus. Thank you for aiding me. I know not the implications of our discovery, but I’m happy we were able to save some of the people here. Fish, fresh from Tuskarr boats! Nothing like a freshly-caught fish for supper! The best fish in the market, no “trout” about it! Aaaah! Try distracting him with a toy! Below us! Look out! Watch out! They’ve got cannons firing upon our position! Take ’em out with some cluster shot! We need to check the accuracy of the gun before we can do anything else, so why not get rid of a few of those naga at the same time? Being tall means it takes longer for my emotions to reach their maximum potential.$B$BBe patient. Listen here, $Glad:lassie;… I, er… fergot what I was goin’ ta say, but best ta keep yer hands ta yerself ’round here.$B$BWouldn’t want ya bleedin’ all over me equipment. Giant incoming! Hey, I that’s the guy that wrecked our ship! Time for some pay-back!! I’ve got just the thing to deal with him. Let em have it! What are you doing out here? I may be a wee lass, but I swing me hammer harder than most o’ the Horde filth ye’ll come across out here. Quite an interesting shield. Where did you get it? This old thing?$B$B<Lets loose a hearty chuckle.>$B$BLook around. Where do ye think I got it? Due to several recent disappearances, a new curfew will be strictly enforced in Fallhaven. For your protection, all villagers are expected to retire to their homes no later than sundown. In addition, we have received reports of dangerous creatures in the foothills. Anyone with business outside the town limits is urged to use caution. Please report any suspicious persons or activity to Mayor White at once. Dear Foreman Staughton, I apologize for the delay in the latest butchery shipment. I was given some plant scraps by the kindly old woman down the way for my pig feed, but I’m afraid it may have been tainted. My swine have become afflicted with a malady that makes them unusually aggressive. It has been difficult to corral them for transport. I will attempt another shipment by week’s end. Dearest Husband… I don’t know who you think you’re fooling, but I’ve seen you sneaking out into the foothills while you think I’m asleep. Whatever it is you’re up to, it better not involve that crazy woman in the woods. She’s a dangerous one… but not half as dangerous as I’ll be if I find out you’re up to no good! You hear that, boys? The mainlander’s gonna help us take our town back! Let’s hope you brought an army in that pack of yours. Alright, boys, let’s secure this road so we can get these bystanders out of harm’s way. $C, take a position with them and hold off any attacks from the town! Looks like they’re onto us. Protect the civilians! More attackers from the town! Hold your position! Looks like they’re sending in the big guns! Brace yourselves, boys! That’s the last of the villagers. With any luck, they’ll make it to Fallhaven unscathed. A word of warning, $c. Avoid the mine at all costs. I don’t know what they’re up to, but the magic coming out of that place seems to sap your very life away. I’ve already lost two good men in there. Don’t make yourself the third. Sisters of the coven, take heed. The miners at Fletcher’s Hollow have stumbled upon a previously undisturbed ruin hidden deep within the Elderstone Mine. The tomb inside may hold powerful relics that could prove useful for our coven’s rituals. Do what you must to secure the town. I will arrive shortly to investigate the ruins personally. Where are the fish most plentiful today? I will inform the fishermen. I am preparing to head toward the monster grounds. Please, give me your blessing! I feel your blessing course through me. My deepest thanks. We are making an excursion into the deep waters. How do the tides fair? Then we have no need to worry. Thank you! We must make an excursion into the deeper water. What is the best course to take? We will experience safety with your guidance. Send the fishermen to the dock by the market. Many fish swim there today. My blessing will keep you safe even in the water. The tides surge strongly in the east but stay calm here in the west. The sirens are out in full force today, but do not leave the soil. Steer clear of islands and you shall be prosperous. The coven will swallow all! The coven will claim you… So much to do, so little time!$b$bI must bless the fishermen and their equipment, read the tides for omens, pray for the return of our sailors… This town belongs to the coven, interloper! You will fall before the matron… Do you have any seaweed? Therold needs it for an antidote. You should not have interfered! My sisters will avenge me… I’m sorry, $c. We’re completely out of seaweed. Everybody has felt too ill to go into the water to harvest. Give Therold my apologies. Kul Tiras shattered. My master, Lord Stormsong, now focuses inward. I often wonder whether he is right. Addington! By the depths… I heard there are spies! What do I do? Lambs to the slaughter. “Something wicked stirs in the woods, mainlander. At night, the ancient Drust monument at its heart glows with unholy power. If I were you, I would give that place a wide berth in your travels.” The ocean’s mists hide much, but this beacon shall let us reach them. A bit waterlogged, but still legible. These incantations will serve us well. Unleash your power! We must not let these lost souls wander any longer. I would have words with you, $p. The blood of Azeroth flows through you! Shatter! Sea to sea, ashes to ashes, tide to tide. The ground will consume you! The currents will carry ye, oh fallen. Tidefather cleanse your wicked flesh. May the abyssal depths welcome your weary soul. Your intrepid spirit will rest forevermore. Ebb and flow, from shelf to shore, your spirit’s woes. Fear not, brother. The waves judge not your surface. Wonder not for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee. Hear the storm’s song, and know peace. Let your soul wash away from its mortal shell, and flow into the waters. “<The fisherman stares obsessively at the water, mumbling to himself. His lips are cracked, his hands bleeding, and his body is covered with cuts and scratches – likely from the ravenous birds swarming the coastline. It looks like he hasn’t moved from this spot in days. He is clearly under the coven’s spell, but unlike others you’ve seen, he’s able to move and speak, but he doesn’t address you when you approach.>” Freehold is a “free people’s port.” Unlike Boralus, it has no rules or regulations about what vessels are allowed to dock. Privateers, mercenaries. Even pirates are welcome. Naturally, it’s a, uh… colorful town. I’ve never seen it this busy before. Something big is going down. One day while Lord Arom was hunting for food in the forest he came upon a massive white stag. The stag had been attacked by the Drust and had killed many but was injured. Lord Arom’s people needed food and the massive deer would feed many, but he decided not to strike. “Anyone who can fight off so many Drust is someone I wish to have in my forests,” he thought. So Lord Arom healed the stag’s injuries. The stag bounded into the woods and Arom made camp. In the night, the Drust attacked! Lord Arom stood against ten warriors! He fought valiantly and with cunning but he was out numbered and surrounded! Determined to take down as many warriors as he could, he held his ground. A mighty bellow came from the forest! The white stag returned and trampled some of the Drust! The he turned and vanished into the woods. Since then, the valiant and true have found shelter with the White Stag of the forest. Interesting. I hadn’t realized the constructs came later as part of his desperation to win. This isn’t Drust. It’s a Kul Tiran carving over a Drust Monolith. That’s Lord Arom Waycrest when he was just a Colonel leading the final assault. And there… That is Gorak Tul being stabbed by Waycrest. Histories of this event always say Lord Arom killed Gorak Tul and his army fell thereafter. But here you can see all his constructs shattering as he is stabbed and his power broken. There was some connection. But… Tul isn’t shown dead. Wounded and broken but not dead. I would have expected to see his body carved in stone. You keep an eye out for your friend. I’ll keep my eyes on the road. Zem’lan’s port is to the south. Ships haven’t sailed into its dockyard for years, but it’s still our best chance to get what Kiro and Nisha need for their attack on the sethrak. I will find her, or die trying. I’m telling you, Arthur, you should not allow this. Our daughter marrying a common merchant!? Lucy is just following her heart, Meredith. Just as I did when I wed you… Her heart isn’t doing our house any favors… While I’m thankful for your help, I would appreciate you not rummaging through my daughter’s undergarments… I don’t think I left them with Lucy’s letters, but I guess it’s good to check. Why would my husband put his notebook in Lucille’s pack? Are you daft!? We’re looking for a book. Don’t you think we would’ve already checked the bookcase? Witchcraft Marshal! What do you know of this coven? Tell me what is happening to our land! It is worse than you know, my lady. This coven has spread like wildfire throughout Drustvar. They’ve overrun much of the land past the mountains. We’ve only a handful left holding Highpass. And my father? What is he doing to combat this incursion? They… they have him, my lady. We were working on a way to extract him when we heard word of this… trial. Well then, it looks like we’re going to have to take the fight to the coven. I think know how to do just that. “Well, let’s just say that the creepy looking wicker people aren’t for show. It all started a few weeks back with some of the miners disappearing. Then all of a sudden, these wicker things started showing up and driving us out of our town. It all started around the time that Waycrest girl started nosing around the town, but even after she left the problem just kept getting worse. Now, the things have taken over and have captured most of our villagers to boot. I managed to hold this point with a handful of volunteers, but I’ve got no idea how I’m supposed to get my town back. So unless you’re here to help, you might as well keep moving.” I wish to meet with the lord of House Waycrest. You wish to meet with the cowards of Waycrest? I don’t think it’ll do you much good. There is a curse upon this land, and when it showed its head the Waycrests did naught but tuck tail and run. They hide in their manor house while their subjects fall prey to unseen evils. I doubt they have any desire to parlay with a mainlander. More interruptions!? What is it this time?! Constable Framer! I order you to release the lady Waycrest into my custody! Miss Waycrest stands accused of witchcraft! We will not turn her over unless she is absolved of this crime! There is no time to argue. If you refuse to stand aside, we will take her by force! You’ve bought us some time, mainlander. Let’s just hope that these villagers truly mean no harm to the lady Waycrest. Constable! You may continue this… trial. At last! Let’s get on with it! Has Miss Waycrest determined how she wishes to be tested? This trial is an awful thing, but justice must be done for Fletcher’s Hollow! How can you prove someone is not a witch? How can you prove someone is not a witch? “Well, my ma always told me that a witch could never cry, no matter how hurt or sad they got. Miss Waycrest didn’t cry one bit even after being told she would be put on trial. She must be a witch!” That woman brought evil into our town. She must be made to pay! “I’ve heard that a witch’s flesh is impervious to flame. That’s why we hang them when they’re found guilty! If you want to convince me, put a torch to her!” “Something must be done to stop the curse on our village. Surely, killing the witch who cast the spell should break it?” “I… I’m not sure… There is a rumor that a witch could never sick up, since their belly is constantly emptied by the dark spirits living within her. I’m not sure how you could prove that, though…” The witch’s evil curse took my son! There will be justice done today! “Back in the old days we would weigh them down and throw them into the river! If they resurfaced, we’d know that they had made an unholy pact, and they’d get the noose! That’s the only way to absolve a witch in my eyes!” I’ve never seen a real witch before. Isn’t this exciting?! “I heard a story a while back that there was a witch who lived in the swamp, and the way the villagers found her out was because the bloodflies there wouldn’t go near her. They bit everyone else, but wouldn’t bite her! They say it was because a witch’s blood is so foul that not even a bloodfly will touch it!” Are you quite finished? I’m becoming impatient! Finally! The trial can commence! As is customary, the lady Waycrest has chosen the tests she will undergo to prove her innocence of the accused crime of witchcraft. She has selected this mainlander to administer the tests. An unusual choice… but as a show of good faith, I will allow it. The first test will be the shedding of tears. Let it be known that Miss Waycrest shed not one tear during this entire process. Is the accused even capable of weeping? Show us, that we may pass our judgment. Go ahead, mainlander. Show them. She’s crying! Witches can’t do that, can they?! She’s crying! Witches can’t do that, can they?! Calm down, calm down. There may still be trickery afoot. We will continue with the trial. The second test will be the stinging of insects. It is well known that even the voracious bloodfly will not taste of a witch’s vile blood. Release the flies, then watch as they scatter from her bewitched flesh! Don’t worry about me. I can handle a few bug bites. Ouch! Oof! Oh, that stings! The bugs don’t seem to be avoiding her. If anything, they’re biting more than usual! The bugs don’t seem to be avoiding her. If anything, they’re biting more than usual! Interesting, but hardly conclusive. Let us move on to the final test… the purging of the viscera. It is well known that a witch’s power is fueled not by food, but by consuming the souls of her victims. Her insides are an empty husk. Are you prepared to prove otherwise, Miss Waycrest? Indeed I shall. The venom, mainlander. Ohhh… I don’t feel so… She got sick! It’s impossible! She got sick! It’s impossible! Maybe she’s not a witch after all! But what of our village? Maybe she’s not a witch after all! But what of our village? Quiet! I will be the one passing judgment here! I remain unconvinced. This still doesn’t explain the happenings at Fletcher’s Hollow. What?! After all I just went through! Tests or no, you will only be absolved once we uncover the truth of what happened to our village! But that could take ages! Then I guess we shall have to wait. Miss Waycrest, you are free to go… with my apologies… <The woman is weeping. You reach out your hand to console her.> “Such… such… loss… I had no idea it could hurt this much…” “When they came to the door, I should have realized… they never show up when it’s something good. I knew right then, the dream was over.” We… we could have had such a wonderful future together, but it was ripped away. Well, there is one thing that could help… The coven’s rejection tore out my soul, now I will take yours! Brothers and Sisters, today you become the searing fire that burns away the darkness. Today you become the shining blade that cuts through the wicked. Today you become the beacon of hope against the endless foe By the authority of House Waycrest, I name you Inquisitors of the Order of Embers Yes. The coven took them. Now they are no more than mindless pawns. We will have no choice but to cut through them. I’m… sorry… Alright men, let us take this tower and drive the coven from Corlain! Glory to House Waycrest! We can handle these soldiers, $c. Find their leader! Excellent work, $c! This tower will provide us a vantage over Corlain and all of its holdings. Now we can see exactly what we’re up against. Will you hold still!? I need to make this tight! I’m trying! It would be easier if you weren’t attempting to rip my arm off! Well done! Now the path to Waycrest Manor runs through Upper Corlain. We should check that out first. So they’ve put up a barrier, eh? I can’t say I’m surprised, but that will prove problematic. Why don’t we do a flyover of the town proper. Be sure to come in low enough that we can get a good look. They’re rounding up the townspeople? That must mean that they’re not completely under the coven’s spell! Maybe there are more survivors out there! Before we return, there’s one last place we should check. There’s an armory right over the hill. Let’s see if anyone’s home. The blacksmith is alive? We’re in luck! Though we’d better get to him quickly. Hurry back! We need to let Marshal Reade know what we saw. I’m sure he’ll have a strategy in mind! Watch what you’re doing! Are you trying to get my bird killed? Next time, fly away from danger! Away! Thank you for returning Winston to me in one piece. I’m sure Reade will be interested in what you saw out there. Get back, or ye’ll be meetin’ my hammer! Wait… yer not one o’ them! You found him! We should leave quickly. The coven has this place surrounded! Wait… what was that? They’re in here! Flush them out! You cannot escape… the Mother… Ah, cram it, ye foul-tongued nag. Yer “Mother” can rot in the bowels of a sea snake! If you’re finished, I think we should be leaving here. Aye, ye be correct there. Lead the way! I will escort Ballaster back to Watchman’s Rise. I will meet you there presently. Welcome back, $c. Ballaster is already hard at work on the forge downstairs. He asked that I convey his thanks for the rescue. $C! Over here! The spiders! They’re everywhere! Thanks again for taking care of those spiders. Not sure how much longer I would’ve lasted. If it’s all the same to you, I’m getting out of here before more of those things come from the mine! Hmm. Ain’t much here, but I got a notion how to maximize its potential. Let me work this fer a spell. Meanwhile, I believe I spied an old hand cannon in the repair heap over there. Fetch it fer me, an’ we’ll see what we can do. That’s the one! Jus’ toss it atop the table there. I’m thinkin’ if we break this silver up into shrapnel, we’ll have ourselves quite the dangerous blast. I’ll need te modify this here hand cannon a mite first… “I’m afraid I’m a little indisposed at the moment, though I suppose I could let you borrow Winston for a spell. Here, take this whistle. It will allow you to directly control him. Be careful, though. If Winston gets too stressed, it will break the connection. Try to steer clear of any possessed falcons or crossbowmen. Good luck… oh, and $n, please try not to kill my bird.” Say “hi,” Winston. Lovely day for some witch hunting, isn’t it? Hello. Be seeing you. Who’s a good bird? Happy hunting. Don’t you know about the bird? Everybody knows that the bird is the word. B-b-b bird, bird, bird! B-bird’s the word! B-b-b-bird, bird, bird! The bird is the word! I will be right behind you. Keep moving, we’ve got this! Go for the eyes, Winston! Oh you’ve screeched at the wrong woman, witch! We’ll cover the flanks. $n, stick with Lucille and the Marshal! Zandalari Omens Very well. Let us see what da spirits have ta say ta ya… Pa’ku’s shadow crosses a stone path… Masks of gold… Ancient waters, undisturbed for generations… A severed elf’s head… All the troll tribes, united under the Zandalari banner… A large egg, shaking wildly, but not cracking… A rising sun over golden water… A resurrection of former friend… A good omen of strength, power, and success. A good omen of prosperity and heritage. A good omen of expansion and da growth of our people. Interesting it should be given ta ya… A powerful omen! Dis bodes well for ya… A… surprising omen for an outsider. What does dis mean? Despite what many think, ya haven’t reached ya full potential yet. Ya power will grow and ya will be mighty beyond expectations. A good omen for all of us. Ya presence should be welcomed on Zandalar. Almost always a good omen, but it will depend on ya friend… Krah’gwa swallows an island… Bwonsamdi looks away… Rezan stomps and blood trolls scatter… Torcali stands tall on a mountaintop, alone… Shadra’s eggs hatch. Countless eyes rush forward… Gral jumps over the king’s fleet… A river of blood, with corpses floating upstream… A brutosaur drowning in blood. A broken throne of fire and ice… A human ship, landing on our shores… Two priests killing each other. A cracked vase, leaking wine. A setting sun in the dark swamps of Nazmir. The death of a new friend. A dark omen for all of us… A darkness rises that will consume even the strongest among us. Including ya. Leaders divided are not leaders at all. Ya must work with ya rivals, or suffer da consequences. An unwelcome omen, but one ya can overcome with strength and determination. Division among ya and ya allies threatens us all. Ya must unite Zandalar. Ya wasting ya potential. Rise to da opportunities before ya, or be forgotten to among da nameless dead. A dark omen for all of us. What have ya brought to our shores? There be few omens more unwelcome dan dis. Tread carefully. Pa’ku closes his eyes in the darkness. Gonk is alone, swimming across a river of gold. Krah’gwa swallows a herd of blue direhorn. Bwonsamdi offers a deal with a smirk. Rezan falls to the ground… dead. Torcali sleeps. Shadra’s nest is empty. Gral is pulled into the deep by an unseen hand. You must walk into da future blind, I’m afraid. Beware da City of Gold. It is not worth da risk. A warning from da Other Side. Be careful. Do not take shortcuts in pursuit of your goals today. Any compromise or carelessness will lead to a grisly end. I’ve not heard this omen in a very, very long time… You must change your destiny. You will be exposed to great hardship and betrayal. Choose ya companions carefully today. Empty? No… You must change dis. Avoid da water today. It is not safe. I’m afraid dese all be bad omens… Dere be endless trouble in your future. I’m sorry. Da omens are mixed… Ya will face impossible challenges, but ya will overcome dem. Da loas not abandon ya. I have seen how this world ends, and ya not gonna like it. I have foreseen what you will say, so please get it over with quickly. Fate is not with you, my friend. The trolls were first to rule this world, and we shall be the last. The troll empire shall rise again. I have foreseen it. This be dread, mon. Truly dread. Dread days be coming. I have seen many great events of our time, and at each, you have been present. Curious. We all have our parts to play, even you. Horse Race My dad talks about horses all the time! He wants to ride one, but I think he’s scared of them.$b$bI know exactly how to help him! Before we begin, let me get prepared. Just a moment… Well alright, enough dawdling then. It is time to identify the perfect horse! What about this one, dad? No, no Joma. This one will not do. It is too… uh… fidgety. Yes! Fidgety! I suspect it would spook at any abrupt movement. This one looks nice! No, no child. I cannot ride this one. He… he looks too bouncy! Look at his gait. My old bones could never handle such motion! I like this one. I think it’s the prettiest! Dad? This is not the horse for me, my son. Look at the shine in her eyes when her gaze falls upon me. She craves my shell as food! Alright daddy, enough procrastinating! You have to get on this horse. <Present the documentation.> “Ah, yes. One… palomino horse. Where are you bringing this horse in from?” I brought this horse in with me when I arrived from Lordaeron. Uh… Iron…forge? It was a dark, stormy night when the land sharks attacked. They ride rams in Ironforge, not horses! To arms! Land sharks be takin’ the wharf! “Ah yes, of course. One of the mainlanders. And where may you be taking this horse?” I believe it’s… Kennings Lodge? Like stabbin’ fish on dry land! Is that all you got? “Kennings Lodge? My good $Gsir:madam; you are on the complete wrong side of the Sound for that.” Where there’s a gill there’s a way. I shall be taking this horse to the Norwington Equestrian and Hunt Festival. How’s that fer chummin’ the waters? “To… compete? Now, I do not mean to be rude, but your horse looks as though it can barely walk in a straight line. I doubt it can carry a person on its back, let alone complete in an equestrian festival!” Excuse me, but my horse comes from a long line of successful show horses. Have you even heard of the Carmallo pedigree? He’s uh… tougher than he looks. “Pah! I’ll believe it when I see it. <Greer inspects your horse up and down.> And I am quite confident I will never see it.” With the sharks at bay, I sought out the alpha. Time to find the alpha o’ these beasts. “Oh, excuse me. Why don’t the two of you show me how good of a ride your horse is, then?” We will. Gallywix and Goblins So this is where all the black market azerite has been comin’ from, eh? Not a bad operation. Just one problem… it don’t belong to me! That’s where you come in. Teach these Venture Company upstarts that there’s nothin’ they got that I can’t take. I wanna see explosions, mayhem, and off-the-charts violence! You know… the stuff you do best. Ha! Look at those chumps gettin’ crushed. Those elementals are really layin’ on the hurt. Seriously though, better destroy ’em before they start hurtin’ my profits. Great job! Now for the real heroics to begin… Signin’ all these forms to take ownership of the mine. All nice and official-like. I’ll admit, watchin’ you work almost makes me consider cuttin’ you in for a share of the profits. I’m not gonna, of course… but I thought about it. For almost a whole second! These Venture Company upstarts are floodin’ the black market with azerite, which is bad for everybody. So I’m pleased you Alliance types see the wisdom in my business proposition. We can keep this our little secret. What Sylvanas don’t know won’t hurt her, am I right? Now that it’s finally official, there’s only one thing left to do… Get your Alliance butts off my newly acquired island! Did you really think I’d share the spoils? That’s adorable! At least you’ve still got your honor… for all the good that’ll do you. This is so exciting! The first real potential kaja’mite find since the Lost Isles. I can hardly contain myself! What’s kaja’mite? “What’s kaja’mite? It’s a powerful resource that gives you ideas! It was discovered on Kezan thousands of years ago, and we goblins mined and refined it. Some experts say that kaja’mite is what gave the goblins our incredible intelligence in the first place. The Zandalari use kaja’mite too. For some reason. Probably for rituals. But according to goblin law, all kaja’mite belongs to goblins!” Husband, please attend to our guests. No! You won’t take him from me! I will never let him go! Our bond can never be broken! Don’t say I
