>>6467397

The rain continued to wash the countryside when you woke up.

Your foul mood from last night was still there as you pulled yourself out of the bed and put on a fresh set of clothes, your breeches and boots. Heading downstairs where the breakfast of porridge, bread and apple slices was already ready, you ate it and prepared to go outside.

“Going somewhere in this weather?” Normand Garside asked.

“I have things to do.” You replied as you threw your brown leather jacket on and went for the coat.

“In this weather?” Normand asked again.

“I am going to meet with Lady Nalice.” You said while straightening your collar. “She has something for me regarding our orc.”

That was a lie, but a lie that should work with Normand.

“You know I don’t like that orc.” He said.

“You keep saying that.” You replied as you straightened your chaperon. “I’ll be out for a while.”

The rain continued as you stepped out. The Royal Foot Guard standing guard had smartly moved underneath the porch to stay away from the rain as he greeted you. Your steps found water and mud, hands in pockets you made your way past the stables and some of the houses. There was no one out there outside of couple guards forced to stay in their posts, but thankfully outside the rain.

Dawnholme seemed empty, no one was out at the sparring yards next to the barracks. The tents housing some of the newcomers had lights inside of them, but no one dared to go outside. Where the Stonemason’s had already piled the dirt for the walls to be built, you found no one there working with shovels or pickaxes. The rain had pushed everyone away.

Knocking on the door of Lady Nalice’s house beyond the Dawnholme’s boundaries, you opened the door and stepped inside.

“Prince Alric.” Nalice greeted you.

“Lady Nalice.” You greeted your lover back as she enjoyed the honorifics.

“I expected to see you yesterday.” She said.

“Apologies, I was in a foul mood.” You replied. “I did not want to have you suffer my muddled mind.”

“Foul mood?”

“Just everything, everything and more.” You said and shrugged as you took off your coat.

Lady Nalice Black-Prestor stood in front of the hearth of her house, she was wearing her robes of black and purple and she seemed to have done her black hair, there was a little of waviness on them.

“You have done your hair?” You asked.

“I have. Thank you for noticing it Prince Alric.” She said and smiled. “Tea?”

“I can’t say no to tea in this weather.” You replied.

Nalice started to prepare the kettle while you took a seat and your foul mood returned. You were going to be talking about things that will annoy you a lot, but at least you would have some tea this time, but where to start?


1/1

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>>6467398


Choose one:
>Kel’Thuzad and his appearance
>Sir Gravis and his Syndicate background
>The lethargic orc who is right now in one of the cells

QM: Let’s start going through the topics one by one.

As always, if you have any questions about the Quest, the characters, events or about me the QM, go ahead and ask them. I will try to answer them without revealing too much of what is to come.

>>6467399
>The lethargic orc who is right now in one of the cells

>>6467399
>>Kel’Thuzad and his appearance
Start with this nuke.
So much rain.

>>6467399
>Kel’Thuzad and his appearance

>>6467399
>Kel’Thuzad and his appearance
I kind of want to get straight into the Gravis business, but this is perhaps more pressing.

I wonder if theres anything we, or more likely Nalice could do for the poor fellow Boyd. He sure burns himself a lot, maybe we can bond over burning ourselves as well. Could probably ask him for pyromancy tips.

Draconic glyphs on his burned flesh, perhaps in patterns that disguise it. Sewn into the interior of clothes or his bandages.

Invisible ink tattoo lol, tell him the ink has alchemical properties that could help prevent him from getting burned...Could ask the actual master alchemist if that last one could be done.

Maybe whatever notes Kel'Thuzad left in his hideout might include something, or Bert if he inherited any of that healing knowledge.

Radical fun solution, expose him to enough magic to trigger a mutation and hope its a good one. Though maybe Nalice could try to cause a targeted mutation?

>>6467399
>>Kel’Thuzad and his appearance

>>6467399
>>Kel’Thuzad and his appearance

“Normand didn’t tell me anything about the orc causing any issues during the travel.” You said to her.

“No, it barely moved.” Nalice replied as the kettle was neatly hanging above the fire.

“Good, your return journey went without any issues then?” You said.

“Prince Alric, I feel like you are leading me with questions?” She asked and went to prepare the cups and the tea itself. “Did something happen?”

“Yes, you are right about the leading question. Something did happen.” You said and took off your glasses and pinched the bridge of your nose. “Later that night after we continued west, we bumped into Kel’Thuzad.”

Nalice paused and slowly turned to look at you.

“I am very glad you are still alive.” She said very matter of factly.

“So am I, he tried to get into our heads and… I was so close to just cutting off his head in return.” You told her.

“What was he doing there?” She asked.

“Travelling, probably coming from a hideout of his. He was cryptic about everything, but cooler heads prevailed and we ended up talking a bit.” You told her.

“What did he tell you?” She practically demanded.

“It is better if I go throught everything.” You said to her.

And so you did as the kettle heated up. You went through how you bumped into him, how you had felt during it, how Tissandra had reacted, the talks that followed, things Kel’Thuzad had told you and all the details inbetween.

“I am not interested in the witch.” Nalice said to you as the water started to boil. “But I am glad she could handle herself.”

“It was good that I hired her, maybe without her I would have acted without concern for her.” You said to Nalice as she went to pour the hot water into a pot.

“And after all that you dared to ask for his spellbook.” Nalice said and gave you an approving look. “Prince Alric, you are very brave.”

“I had to get something out of the encounter.” You replied. “But a hideout? Sounds like danger.”

“Danger can be managed.” She said and gave you a sly smile. “Any plans?”

“Take a few people I trust and go see what it is about?” You said and shrugged. “I mean I have the reputation of hitting things with a sword until they go away, what can Kel’Thuzad’s hideout have inside that can endure getting hit by a sword?”

Nalice laughed a bit as she added the tea into the pot.

“Always so straightforward.” She said. “But going there should be done fast and with haste, because if I were him, I would have failsaves and other ways of mitigating unwanted intruders approaching the place.”

“I agree, but I can’t immediately.” You said back.

“Of course, you are waiting for Lady Malevus?” Nalice asked as she poured the tea into cups. “Am I correct?”

“Her or…” You started.

“Dalaran is doing enough by chasing Kel’Thuzad, you do not need to inform Prince Kael’thas Sunstrider.” Nalice said and brought the cup to you while taking her own seat. “They would just have everything destroyed while giving you just a warm handshake.”


1/2

>>6467891

Nalice did not like Dalaran had she made it very clear and apparent from time to time.

“I will keep that in mind.” You replied and took the cup. “It smells good.”

“Madam Martin had collected the herbs, she was kind enough to give me some.” Nalice said and smiled slightly. “But on our rogue Archmage, I do not know what he is talking about or what he is planning on doing. But it cannot be anything good, there are many ways a mage of his calibre can err and take a wrong turn, or be influenced by something. I do not believe this will be the last time we hear of him.”

“I think so too, by all accounts he was a very strong Archmage.” You replied.

“I concur.” Nalice said back. “But act with haste, whatever could be recovered from the hideout could be a boon to us. To you and to me.”


Choose one:
>Sir Gravis and his Syndicate background
>The lethargic orc who is right now in one of the cells

>>6467892
>>Sir Gravis and his Syndicate background

>>6467892
>>Sir Gravis and his Syndicate background
Lets hear what she learned

>>6467892
>>Sir Gravis and his Syndicate background
A duel in the rain with no nosy observers. Hash out those bad feelings by beating each other up. Second and final chance.

Falconcrest...FC...Foecourt...Although it would have been right up their alley for that courtesan Gravis likes to see to have been his handler in Dawnholme lol.

Taking a sip of the tea, you knew what was to come next.

“It doesn’t just smell good, it tastes good.” You said.

“Thank you Prince Alric.” Nalice said. “I made it for you.”

“What else to expect from my little dragon.” You said and this time smiled before continuing. “But… Sir Gravis, you know why I am here.”

Nalice nodded and took out several pieces of paper she had prepared and planted next to her. The tea and the talk had been preparation for this, and the more you were prepared for this, the more you knew what was to come.

“He is a traitor.” Nalice said without emotions in her voice and pushed the papers to you.

You took them and forgot to breathe for a second. The papers were gibberish, just random letters after another. You spoke after you released your breath.

“Cipher?” You asked.

“All words are backwards and letters are ten letters ahead of them.” Nalice told you. “Simple, but effective.”

“Lady Nalice, you copied all of this?”

“I did, it is not beyond my skills.” She said. “Copied as they were.”

There was more than one paper that she had copied and now presented to you.

“Here Prince Alric, the translations.” She said and handed another set of papers to you.

And you read them. They started with your troop numbers, how many footmen or archers you had. If you had any specialists or people worth noting. Your officers were all named, those worth extra mention had them with Cromwell and Rover Brothers being especially mentioned. Patrol routes, sizes of the patrols, deployments and training. Your mages, what were their specialties. There were details of your economy, where things are heading, the Oil Rig, Darrowmere League. Events of Stormwind City, events before that and since then.

There were details about you and Malevus, you and your family, you and Tari and little Faelyn all innocent to all of this. Gravis had been thorough, so bloody fucking thorough that…

“Fucking traitor!” You shouted out and stood up. “I will kill him! I will fucking kill him!”

Running your fingers through your hair you paced around the room as you felt the fire starting to rumble within you. The scorching hot inferno spread across you as you struggled to keep it together within you, but you felt like you were losing this battle. The nagging feeling within you spread and you could feel the heat from your fingertips to your toes. Your hand searched for the hilt of your sword and you could just feel it within you.

You wanted to deal with this, once and for all!


Choose one:
>Sir Gravis must pay, and he must pay right now. Go confront him right now.
>You must get your feelings under control. You cannot allow the fire to take control over you.
>Nalice must have done this with a reason, let her help you.
>Other, write in

QM: Choose ones to continue.

>>6467935
>>You must get your feelings under control. You cannot allow the fire to take control over you.

>>6467935
>You must get your feelings under control. You cannot allow the fire to take control over you.
Duel is good, just not when hes in the mood to kill him.

Dang that IS thorough. I'm sure Alric can work through it. If that includes troop numbers of our allies too. VanCleef's army that will be in Dawnholme later. The 100 mercs paid for by Katrana set for Durnholde. The potential men in the merc camp. The Dark Irons.

We have the town walls and gate going up to help against agents, and we doubled the guards. Mages working on the anti-magic wards against teleporting assassins too. Durnholde men we might put to patrols. Once Stonedon's issue is resolved with that new manor they will take up patrols which should change things up.

>>6467935
>You must get your feelings under control. You cannot allow the fire to take control over you.

Rushing in now will only bite us in the ass. This is a lot worse then I thought it would be; this is a level of betrayal that we can't be "kind prince Alric" about, Gravis needs to be hanged.

>>6467935
>>You must get your feelings under control. You cannot allow the fire to take control over you.
Gravis, whyyyyy don't you make me want to chop your head off right now tff. Ffsake, you were our bro....

Just to get some thoughts down I don't think hanging is the solution, especially not when his marriage to Imswit's daughter is part of our secret vassalage setup and all the other Durnholders that like us rally around her. Imagine it "Oh we almost had a marriage to a syndicate agent traitor you put forward"

I don't think it makes a good showing that countless military and personal secrets were exposed while we are trying to build our League. But thats just politics wise.

For Alric personally if an actual shameless syndicate assassin that tried to kill him and others like Pai gets a break I think after all those seasons of bro-service we can make an offer. Alric should consider the nature of his personal virtue, his belief in second chances. Redemption. Forgiveness. Is it something he can only offer when its easy, I don't think so.

Can Gravis actually make up for it? Maybe in the next point.

Finally on the intelligence front this is a critically important opportunity for Nalice and Eligius. Plenty of opportunity to catch others and learn new info from their messages. We have a high-confidence intelligence asset like Gravis, anything false he feeds them in future they will almost certainly believe. Its hard to overstate how valuable that is.

Also I suppose If they ever believe Gravis doublecrossed them then EVERYTHING he ever told them becomes suspect and they have to throw it out, reconfirm it, or risk being duped. The Syndicate is quite paranoid after all.

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>>6467935
>Nalice must have done this with a reason, let her help you.
Seems like option 2 and 3 are non-exclusive, but surely QM has plans.
Then plans within plans.

But it's time to show Gravis the long arm of Alterac government.

>>6467935
>>You must get your feelings under control. You cannot allow the fire to take control over you.

He WILL suffer.

I will ask a combat roll for Alric to see if he can get things under control, if you fail it doesn't hurt you. Just leaves you really pissed.

I will write the update tomorrow.


>3d10, Best of three
>DC 20, Crit 25

Rolled 4, 8, 5 = 17 (3d10)

>>6468232

Rolled 6, 3, 1 = 10 (3d10)

>>6468232
FIREEEE

The raging inferno inside us wants something to burn....

>>6468232
Dice+3d10

Rolled 2, 8, 2 = 12 (3d10)

>>6468286
Soo... It's been a while alright?! Nvm this post.

>>6468244
>>6468281
>>6468287

Time to break shit, I guess.

Rolled 8, 9, 6 = 23 (3d10)

>>6468232
test roll

>>6468354
NOOOOOOOO

>>6468354

More like test troll!

Update half-finished, I will have it out tomorrow. The failed roll just means that Alric’s foul mood despite the tea continue and he doesn't push the fire under control so no incremental magic learning bonus this time.

>>6468690
I dont think we have hit even a single one of the magic learning bonus rolls for this particular spell lol

>17, Failure!


“All the trust, everything we did together!” You shouted out. “And he was to throw it all out?”

The fires within you burned as you knew you needed to control them. They raged and trashed, a whirlwind of flames circling in your stomach as you were forced to turn away from Nalice.

“He is the leader of my bodyguards for fuck sake!” You said.

“Prince Alric.” Nalice started, but you interrupted her.

“Lady Nalice. I am forever thankful for you having uncovered what needed to be known.” You said to her and struggled within you. “The papers… what of the originals?”

“I let them go.” She said matter of factly.

“What!?” You shouted out. “But why?”

“A common spy could figure out your troop numbers and patrols, those are not secrets and can be predicted.” She told you and continued. “And the rest, they can be figured out by people like your big sister.”

“You let them go!”

“Prince Alric, if those papers weren't delivered, they would have known Sir Gravis was compromised either as a spy or as an agent.” She told you and continued after sipping her tea. “Now we have the initiative and ability to act first, be whatever our goals are. Either killing him, just watching him or perhaps trying to turn him.”

The way she spoke, her tone seeped with regal professionalism. This was her job after all, being a spymaster first for Katrana Prestor and now as an advisor for you.

“If I had taken those papers, Syndicate would have realised it and there is a likelihood of Sir Gravis being informed of it and then he would have acted.” She told you and continued. “We do not need to speculate what he would do, but preventing such actions, it would be more than difficult.”

This made your efforts to control the fires within you near futile as your mind raced to possibilities. What could his tasks be? They can't be just spying on you, maybe he would try to kill you, no… for most damage, he would harm your family. That must be it.

“Even if it is very unfortunate we had to let those papers go, I know you are now thinking of the alternatives…” Nalice started.

“Stop.” You ordered. “Just stop. You are right, but I don't want to think about this…”

You walked to the coat hanger and took your coat.

“Thank you for the tea.” You said to her. “It was delicious, but I need to go for a walk.”

You had barely tasted it, but you had no stomach for it. No mood and not because of Nalice, you knew she had made the right decision. You just couldn't sit still.

“Do not catch a cold.” Nalice said to you as you opened the door.

Stepping out, the rain immediately caught you and you pulled the hood over your head, but not before the rain had washed your face.


1/3

>>6469064

The fire within you hadn't calmed down, but it kept you warm and your limbs fresh as the numbness of cold and rain was kept away.

Hands in your pockets you slowly strolled through Dawnholme half-aimlessly, observing the finished houses and projects still covered in scaffoldings. The Stonemasons had done tremendous work and their skills… you saw a pair of guards and their dark cloaks and armours made you think of Gravis. But it wasn't him there, he was probably at home or at the barracks doing his duties. Soon he would be officially betrothed to Hilde Imswit and that would seal the alliance and vassalage between you and her mother Edith Imswit.

Why Gravis, why did you have to be a Syndicate agent?

Walking through the town, the rain kept people out of the streets and everything felt abandoned. For the first time in a long time even surrounded by everything you had accomplished, you felt demoralised and not wanting to be part of any of this.

You sighed and found yourself standing in front of the jail. Well if your walking had inadvertently led you here, better to take it as a sign and go see the orc.

Inside the jail structure the jailer greeted you and took your wet coat before doing the rounds of the empty jail cells on the first floor. Beyond drunkards who needed a night to freshen themselves up, the jailer didn't have much to do now with the lower dungeon being empty. Well, empty till now. He led you down the stairs and through locked doors to the now familiar dungeon with the sturdy wooden doors lining the walls.

“Open the door.” You ordered him.

“We feed it once a day, a bowl of porridge.” The jailer said and pushed the key in. The lock clacked several times and the jailer pulled it open.

The lantern he carried shone light into the cell where you saw the old orc slumped over, but held up with chains holding its arms up.

“Remove the chains.”

“But my Prince…” The jailer protested.

“The orc lacks the will to resist, he won't escape I promise you.” You replied.

Carefully the man removed the leg irons, the chain wrapped around the orc’s waist and then lowered the chains from the roof to take them off. He breathed out loudly and leaned against the wall, but didn't react otherwise.

“It shat itself, we have just thrown water at it.” The jailer said which explained some of the smell.

“Thank you, that is enough. Leave the lantern and bring me a chair.” You ordered him.

“My Prince?”

“Just do what I tell you.”


2/3

>>6469067

The man did as told and you could hear the door shut close behind you as you took your seat. The lantern gave enough light to illuminate the cell and the orc. He turned his head just enough for you to see his eyes.

They were deep red, yet weren't burning. There was no strength in them. The orc breathed out and allowed his head to turn away. It was as if he was ashamed of himself. You continued to study him, he had a strong frame of a warrior, just quite thin and frail. The long grey hair covered his head and a pair of large tusks jutted out of his mouth. As he sat there the fire within you kept burning, but the fire within him had been snuffed out.

“Throm'ka.” You greeted the orc. “I know you understand Common, but I want to be polite.”

The orc turned his head just enough for him to glance at you. At least he is reacting to you, but where to go from here?


Choose one:
>Properly introduce yourself. The orc must have seen Dawnholme when he was brought here. Tell him about all of this.
>Have him know you are going to get him to train your men. The orc might be lethargic, but you will punch through it one way or another.
>Tell the orc what you think about him. He was a warrior, maybe a leader, definitely respected. Who he is and what he has done is secondary, because you are going to give him a second chance.
>Sir Gravis is still on your mind, tell the orc about him. He won't speak or reveal the details, but at least he will make a good listening partner.
>Stare at the orc in total silence. Try to get the fire within you into submission while staring the orc into submission. This worked with Pai after all.

QM: One more choose one. Each option is a different path to take.

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>>6469069
>Properly introduce yourself. The orc must have seen Dawnholme when he was brought here. Tell him about all of this.

For a second I thought we were getting railroaded into making him an abuse orc.

>>6469069
>>Properly introduce yourself. The orc must have seen Dawnholme when he was brought here. Tell him about all of this.

>>6469079
Abuse Gravis.

>>6469069
If I had to guess, hes a former Blademaster of the Burning Blade. Not only is he feeling physically drained but their destruction on top of that? Anyone would be pretty wiped out. Although maybe I just want him to be one lol.

I'm not sure which path will end up with strong feelings that also bond him to Alric more than any other goal.

>Sir Gravis is still on your mind, tell the orc about him. He won't speak or reveal the details, but at least he will make a good listening partner.
The other options are not personal; the towns grand goal, the other men. His past seems like the wrong subject considering its the past that has broken him. Some kind of animal domination and submission.

This seems like a personal bond where we can find something we both regret, or atleast for now let Alric open up first so the orc can respond later. I'd imagine this orc might feel betrayed by a few others that led to their defeat and destruction. Alric is now dealing with Gravis, and plenty of other family matters who are the real forces behind the scenes. Whats something Alric, or anyone, can really put his trust in.

Slow and steady relationship building

>>6469069
>>Sir Gravis is still on your mind, tell the orc about him. He won't speak or reveal the details, but at least he will make a good listening partner.
lol

>>6469069
>Tell the orc what you think about him. He was a warrior, maybe a leader, definitely respected. Who he is and what he has done is secondary, because you are going to give him a second chance.

Open book conversation is perhaps the best introduction.

>>6469069
>>Tell the orc what you think about him. He was a warrior, maybe a leader, definitely respected. Who he is and what he has done is secondary, because you are going to give him a second chance.

We have a really fancy 2-2-2 tie. Could I have a tiebreaker as I intent on writing in about three or so hours.

>>6469079

The abuse goblin comics are so dark humour, I love them.

>>6469087
>>6469382
switching to
>>Tell the orc what you think about him. He was a warrior, maybe a leader, definitely respected. Who he is and what he has done is secondary, because you are going to give him a second chance.

Resting your right leg on your left, you on purpose took a lazy pose and weren't ready to defend yourself. You telegraphed this really well, drawing the Cinder Sword fast would be difficult.

“You were once a warrior, I can see your scars, they are not from claws, but from battles with blades and axes. I can see it in your frame, how you looked when you were standing.” You told the orc. “And I think and please correct me if I am wrong, you were a leader, a commander or a Lieutenant.”

For a second you weren't sure if he knew Common that well and so you continued.

“You led a group of warriors like you. How do I know it? Because at the Internment Camp, I saw you eating, but I hadn’t seen you pick up the bowl. Someone had brought it to you and when we left, the others watched and followed you with their eyes.” You said to him and leaned a bit forward. “You are someone they respected, someone with gora.”

The Orcish word of honour made the orc breathe out again a bit louder. He looked at you and then closed his eyes.

“I could have asked them who you are, what is your name, why are you so respected? But I didn't, why? Because it doesn't matter to me.” You said to him with a calm and quiet tone. “Perhaps I am foolish for not having done so, but not knowing who you are does help me, I can concentrate on what I see when I push your name and previous deeds into the background. They are fully secondary to this.”

“What I want of you and what matters is what I am seeing, a respected warrior.” You said now with a bit more force. “Just now locked behind the veil of lethargy.”

The orc opened his eyes to look at you again. He shifted a bit and raised his head to stare at the dark ceiling.

“There is no will…” The orc spoke. His voice was very deep, but not guttural like Hellscream's. But it was hoarse, he probably hadn't talked in a while.

“I know, I have spoken with your kin. When the Dark Portal closed following your defeat, you just lost the will to raise your hands in anger.” You said to him. “But I am not asking you to raise your hands in anger.”

“Train your men?” The orc asked.

“Precisely.”

“Send me back… to the rest…” The orc replied and let out a deep breath. He wasn't used to talking this much.

“I am afraid, Durnholde does not have a refund policy.” You chuckled and stood up. “A moment please.”

Knocking on the door, the jailer opened it and you stepped out. You stopped the man before he would have gone back to chain the orc and closed the door.

“Couple things, first the orc needs proper food and not just porridge. He can't train my men if he is lanky and frail.” You said and were sure that the orc could still rip off your limbs even this weak. “Second, he needs more to drink. He can barely talk with hoarse throat of his. So get me a waterskin now.”

The jailer, now understanding how serious you were, ran up the stairs and returned with a waterskin.


1/2

>>6469521

“Water my Prince.” He said.

“Good, now open the door.” You replied and took the skin.

The orc hadn't moved when you returned. The door closed shut, leaving the lantern the only source of light.

“Your throat is hoarse, here is some water.” You said and offered the waterskin. “Take it or do I have to pour it down your throat myself?”

The orc stared back for a moment and when you took a step forward, he moved his arm to reach the skin. Quickly you popped the cork open and watched as the orc took it, raising the skin over his mouth and starting to drink. Half of the water missed, but you saw him swallow enough.

“Good, keep the waterskin.” You said as he put the half-empty skin down and you took your seat. “Where were we, right… I can't send you back. I have too much use for you here and therefore I will make sure to provide you with better food. Porridge alone won't be enough.”

The orc stared at you again.

“I know lethargy is eating you from inside. I can't make any promises in being able to lift it, or replacing whatever demonic energies that empowered your kin, but I can still give you a purpose without ever a need to raise your hand in anger.” You told the orc. "I want the respected warrior for that, nothing more.”

The orc continued to stay silent as he closed his eyes again.

“I have fought enough…” He said, now with a less hoarse throat. “No more…”


>The orcs are on the move, the Internment Camps are in danger. You need the orc's help.
>There is a purpose in training others, so that they can fight and survive.
>If you had given up after the Incident, when you were as weak as he is, you could have never forgiven yourself if anything bad had happened to your friends.
>Call the talks for the day, do not force the decision on him right now.
>Other, write in

Mentioning named orcs?:
>Name who?

QM: If you mention the orcs, who will you name if any? How to get the orc to agree to help you?

>>6469522
>There is a purpose in training others, so that they can fight and survive

>Name who?
Remind me the name of the death knight we killed, Umo Shadowheart? Plus his prophecy

>>6469522
>>6469531
>There is a purpose in training others, so that they can fight and survive.
"I duelled Hellscream to first blood, but I lost. Maybe no other warrior - Orc or Human - would be capable. Maybe not even the Doomhammer in the state I saw him last."

>>6469522
>>There is a purpose in training others, so that they can fight and survive.

>Name who?
Hellscream
If you want to convince that one can push through the malaise through sheer willpower like hellscream.

>>6469531
Correct thats its name.

>>6469522
>>There is a purpose in training others, so that they can fight and survive.

>Name Who?
"I duelled Hellscream to first blood, but I lost. Maybe no other warrior - Orc or Human - would be capable. Maybe not even the Doomhammer in the state I saw him last."

>How to get the orc to agree to help you?
There is purpose and possibilities even for the ones that where defeated. Alterac was no more, but now Dawnholme stands instead of a lost and mistrusted people. And this people accomplished all of this by being lead by a young Prince.

We would also be willing to give him 4 changes of clothes, and a regular cleaning of his cell if he accepts. On top of what we will give him already.


///
We WILL have new sparring partners for Malevus and Alric (orc [???], troll [Ranvis], dwarf [Bakhtet], dragonspawn [Sir Cyrus]. Pretty damn good). Imagine how much they will kick ass from now on... if Foecourt shows up i guess he can also put in the Sparring group.

Also i am thinking of putting Pai and Sir Cyrus has regular bodyguards of our future Paladin Queen. We might need to improve security for her a notch. Sir Cyrus would be official security, Pai in the shadows.

And it might be a good idea for Malevus to have Madam Judy Martin has a regular mentor-teacher.

I was not in position to write last evening so I will do the update today.

Though could I get a roll for not orc related things.


>1d10
>Best of three

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>6470002
>not orc related things
GNOLLS

Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>6470002
ELVES

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>6470002
TAXES

>>6470010
>>6470003
Only two things are assured in alterac.
Gnolls and taxes.

>>6470011
The dice is right about the elves too.
We only have 2 (that are named).

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>6470011

Imagine! A gnoll taxman, taxgnoll!

Good roll and happy end result. I will roll again for the stuff in the background. If the roll is low, you can go uh oh.

“No more?” You asked him. “I am sorry, but the rest of us don't get to sit back and just enjoy our lives.”

You sighed.

“As much as I would enjoy that…” You muttered to yourself before continuing with more force in your voice. “If I could choose, I wouldn't fight ever again, I would choose my friends, my family, everyone else over it.”

The orc now stared at you in silence.

“But I don't get to choose, others have their own agencies to act and do things, sometimes unwise things.” You said and continued. “Hellscream and his Warsong Clan is still out there, I have seen him, he is active and planning something.”

“Grommash…” The orc said.

“He is keeping the lethargy away with the pure strength of his will.” You said. “If I had my armour I could have defeated him.”

The orc stared at you and you could see the curiosity in his deep red eyes.

“I duelled Hellscream to first blood, but I lost. Maybe no other warrior, orc or human would be capable of standing against him. Maybe not even the Doomhammer in the state I saw him last.” You told him and immediately continued. “Though Grom is not my only worry. Earlier this year I bested a death knight, Umo Shadowheart, who delivered a warning.”

“The day will come when the sky will rain fire, you will be upon the brink of destruction and the reign of chaos has come at last.” You repeated it.

The orc breathed deeply and let out a sigh as his head slumped down.

“I am facing threats that I know how to fight against, but my men? My people?” You asked. “We Alteracis were allies with the orcs, we didn't fight against you and death knights? Our magic is limited and their skills, power overwhelming.”

You shifted on your seat and leaned forward.

“There is purpose in training others, a way to contribute. So that they could learn and survive what is to come.” You told the orc. “There’s honour in it, a good life for a warrior like you.”

The orc didn't move until after a moment it pulled his legs closer and sank his head on his knees. He didn't move afterwards or say anything.

Well, you tried. At least you got the orc to speak and listen, which was something.

“Keep the lantern and the chair, though I don't think it carries your weight.” You said and stood up. “I ordered the jailer to provide you with some proper food, not just porridge and gruel. In return, there's a bucket in the corner. Use it.”

Going for the door you knocked on it and waited for it to be opened. As you took the step out, the orc spoke.

“Wait…” He said with his deep voice.

You stopped and turned to look at the sitting orc.

“There is no strength in these hands of mine.” He said to you and raised his head. “I cannot help you.”


1/2

>>6470182

You avoided the smile. What you had told him had worked, but the doubt and clouded mind held his hands. There was want, but no willpower at all for the orc to push through the lethargy.


>The orc can take all the time he needs to find that strength. It is there.
>Nonsense, there is strength in his hands. And you can prove it at the training yard outside.
>Present Cinder Sword to the orc and order him to draw it. A familiar feeling should invigorate him
>Close the door and draw the Cinder Sword before setting it on fire. You are going to enjoy the day when you get to duel the orc.
>Other, write in

>>6470184
>Present Cinder Sword to the orc and order him to draw it. A familiar feeling should invigorate him

"Your hands might remember their strength if they gripped a sword."

Madame Martin might have some good teas, or maybe a nice smoking blend to help with the inevitable training aches.

>>6470182
>Present Cinder Sword to the orc and order him to draw it. A familiar feeling should invigorate him
"Your hands might remember their strength if they gripped a sword."

Food, showers, cleaned clothes. No stinking cell. All for the price of beating up soldiers and correcting them on how to fight.

>>6470184
>The orc can take all the time he needs to find that strength. It is there.

Give him a few days to mull. I don't believe he's as lethargic as he seems.


>>6470197
>>6470212
You guys's hearts are in the right place, but you gotta think of the implication here. Us, a Perenolde? Giving an Orc a weapon? Its a bad look. I know nobody else is here but the guard, but Gravis's betrayal has got me paranoid.

>>6470184
>>Present Cinder Sword to the orc and order him to draw it. A familiar feeling should invigorate him

>>6470184
>The orc can take all the time he needs to find that strength. It is there.

>>6470333
Hes gonna train men with a weapon anyway, or at least a training weapon but an orc could easily kill with anything.

I'm 90% certain hes a former burning blade blademaster, so letting him draw an actual burning blade to awaken him is just fate lol.

It'll be a good bond, maybe strong enough to keep him.

Shame he can't have his own cinder sword being an orc, or the officers either imagine how much that shit would cost...I wonder if we could make it work with small daggers and dragon runes? A great symbolic gift.

Burning daggers would be so damn convenient besides a fancy secondary weapon. A torch you can always have on you. A little portable source of heat in those alterac winters. Fire starter. Ranger cooking pad so you can fry some meat without smoke lol

Maybe we can afford it with the tax money...

>>6470184
>The orc can take all the time he needs to find that strength. It is there.

Half and half, presenting the sword and giving the orc the time needed.

I have for the most part written the update, but I am already nodding on my chair so time to sleep. I will finish and post it sometime tomorrow.

Right decisions taken with the orc. Though staring him would have been funny. Would have been a quite confusing moment for him as well. Alric not knowing who the orc is will be a benefit.

“Close the door.” You said to the jailer who did as told.

Stepping forth, you unstrapped the sword belt and presented the hilt for the orc to grip.

“Your hands might remember their strength if they gripped a sword.” You said to him.

The orc looked at you. You could see the struggle within him, part of him wanted to push forward, but another equally strong held him back. But in the end, slowly the orc moved his right arm and wrapped his fingers around the hilt. Carefully you in return pulled the scabbard back, unsheathing the sword.

“It is called the Cinder Sword.” You told the orc and continued. “Made by the swordsmiths of Stormwind City, I won a tournament there and got it as a reward. But the blade is flawed, it is supposed to set itself on fire when unsheathed and now it just sheds embers as it heats up.”

The orc's hand started to shake and the sword fell on the sandy floor.

“I am not going to expect you to start training my men immediately.” You said and picked the Cinder Sword up. “You can take your time.”

With Cinder Sword in your hand and scabbard in another, you stood in front of the sitting orc. Strange dynamic, you should visit him in a few days and maybe bring Malevus and Tari with you. A Paladin in training and someone who nursed an orc baby could prove helpful in breaking through the lethargy.

“I will come see you in a few days.” You said and sheathed the sword. “In the meanwhile, try to find the strength within you. I know it is there.”

Going for the door, you knocked on it and it opened. As you stepped out, the orc spoke one last time.

“Thank you.” He said, his voice not that strong. You just raised your hand and the door closed shut.

…

Pulling the now dry coat on your shoulders, you were ready to leave.

“You have something on your mind?” You asked the jailer.

“The orc my Prince, is this wise?” He asked.

“I know how this looks, a Perenolde with an orc?” You said back to him and straightened your chaperon. “And people will talk, first the troll and now an orc. But people should also talk about what has pushed me to have them here to train our soldiers. That is what they should be concerned about.”

“Yes my Prince.” The jailer replied.

This was going to be a topic that will shadow you now and in the future. People like Garithos will take full advantage of this when they hear the rumours and news. But you are lucky that they have lost considerable political capital while you have gained it. It won't be easy for them to push rumours and agendas against you.

Still, it would be best if you were careful with these sorts of things. Unenforced errors should be avoided.

But getting wet again was something you couldn't avoid, it was still raining, what a drag.


1/2

>>6470831

>9


“Prince Alric.” A guard greeted you as you were eating lunch.

“What is it?” You asked.

“Stonemasons, they are finally here.” The guard said. “Approaching on the road coming from the south.”

“Finally!” You shouted out.

“What are your orders?” The guard asked.

The weather was still bad as the day had turned to afternoon.


>You will ride ahead with the knights and escort them here.
>Send the knights and some footmen to escort them here and provide help.
>Order Captain Cromwell to get the men ready to receive them here. They must be tired after such a tiresome journey.
>Inform Master Mason Pelija, have his folk ready to house the newcomers.
>Other, write in

QM: The roll was if the Stonemasons would finally get here. The Peasant count won't change as it already includes them and the Mechanics pastebin has the remaining Stonemason mercenaries and mages included.

>>6470832
>You will ride ahead with the knights and escort them here.
>Inform Master Mason Pelija, have his folk ready to house the newcomers.
And make sure they have a warm meal to greet them!

>>6470832
Any longer and I was wondering if they were building their own ship to get here!

>You will ride ahead with the knights and escort them here.
See and be seen. A chance to talk with VanCleef and whoever hes brought with him. Get him up to speed perhaps. Some thoughts for whenever.

Does he intend to hang up his daggers for the hammer? Be a military officer? Be part of our intrigue network since hes already familiar with Nalice?

Do they intend to keep whatever smuggling operations going in some way or another like the one under our new stormwind estate lol.

>Order Captain Cromwell to get the men ready to receive them here. They must be tired after such a tiresome journey.
A chance for both sides to get to know each other on a meaningful occasion. They'll be working together pretty soon. Thats 200 some stonemason men holding Dawnholme when we are away, Cromwell has been begging for more men to patrol with which would free up even more of our core forces.

>Inform Master Mason Pelija, have his folk ready to house the newcomers.
If Cromwell is handling the reception Pelija is handling finding houses for everyone

>>6470832
>>You will ride ahead with the knights and escort them here.
>Order Captain Cromwell to get the men ready to receive them here. They must be tired after such a tiresome journey.
>Inform Master Mason Pelija, have his folk ready to house the newcomers.

>>6470832
>>You will ride ahead with the knights and escort them here.
>>Order Captain Cromwell to get the men ready to receive them here. They must be tired after such a tiresome journey.
>>Inform Master Mason Pelija, have his folk ready to house the newcomers.