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[page 2]
text=The Blackstorm Times
text=
text=For news, visit us at
text=
text= blackstormraptor . needlemen . com 
text=

[page 3]
text=The Blackstorm Times
text=
text=For news, visit us at
text=
text= blackstormraptor . needlemen . com 
text=

[page 14]
text=Portal Usage Instructions.
text=
text=Select yourself before using the Scroll.
text=
text=The Scroll needs a target. DO NOT right-click on it before selecting yourself !!!
text=
text=So, last time, select yourself before using the Scroll.

[page 15]
text=Hello Morgan,
text=
text=Business in Goldshire is brisk, so brisk that I haven't had time to send you any shipments!
text=
text=I commissioned the person bearing this note to bring you a package of large wax candles (you know, the ones the Kobolds like to wear on their heads?).
text=
text=Please give this person our thanks, and fair payment.

[page 18]
next_page=19
text=Dear Noble Sir,
text=
text=Word of your need for a tutor for your children has traveled to me here in Goldshire, where I take up temporary residence in the Lion's Pride Inn.  Due to the unfortunate state of events in the region, I was forced to abandon my post as Headmaster of the Moonbrook Schoolhouse.  Please accept my application to serve as tutor for your offspring.  Headmaster Crillian of the Academy can speak to you of my abilities if necessary.

[page 19]
text=I shall travel to meet you in person when the winter rains subside and the roads are suitable for travel once again.
text=
text=Until then,
text=
text=Stalvan Mistmantle of Silverpine

[page 20]
text=. . .Giles, the boy, seems a bit rambunctious and will be a challenge to educate.  However the elder daughter, Tilloa, seems exceptionally smart.  I couldn't help but to notice her captivating beauty as well.  She is on the cusp of womanhood now.  Supposedly the Lord has arranged her marriage for next year.  But I digress.  This week I will accompany the family to their summer cottage near the Eastvale Logging Camp in Elwynn, close to the Red Ridge Mountains.  I hope to write more while there.

[page 21]
text=. . .most strange and uncontrollable feeling.  Never have I felt the way I did today.  Whilst assisting Giles with his history lesson, Tilloa was outside tending to the flower garden.  After a few minutes she came inside and placed a scarlet begonia in my open palm and smiled at me in such a way that my heart felt as though it was trembling within my chest. . . .

[page 25]
text=Tommy Joe -
text=
text=With each passing hour, my heart withers from your absence.  Oh, if only our folks could see beyond the silly crimes they have done to each other, and know that the only true crime is hate.  Hate consumes, and I fear in these dimming times that hate will take hold of more than just our families.
text=
text=If they realized this then we could, at long last, be together.  It is for that day I hope, and for that day I live.
text=
text=Your love,
text=Maybell

[page 26]
next_page=218
text=Hello William,
text=
text=It's been years since we've spoken, but I trust you and your brother are well, and that your apothecary thrives.
text=
text=I must ask a favor of you, William.  In short, my grandson Tommy Joe has lost his heart to young Maybell Maclure.  And although they adore each other... our families, well our families have been feuding for years.

[page 28]
text=Argus,
text=
text=As you know, I'm up to my neck in repair requests from the Army.  I can't complain about all the work, but it's depleting my supply of iron.
text=
text=I don't have enough iron for horseshoes.  I know you always keep a large stock--I'd like to borrow 50 pairs of shoes until I get my next shipment of iron.
text=
text=You have my gratitude,
text=-Verner

[page 29]
text=A note is attached to the crate.  It reads:
text=
text="Verner - sorry to hear Redridge is having such trouble.  Here are the shoes you need.  Please pay me 100 silver at your earliest convenience."
text=
text="Or if you like, you can pay me in underbelly scales from black dragon whelps (I hear Dragon Whelps are common in the Redridge Mountains).  Because we're friends... 4 scales will be enough.  Thanks --Argus"

[page 30]
next_page=31
text=My Lord,
text=
text=War is upon us.  Doom harkens from our doorstep.
text=
text=As Magistrate of the township of Lakeshire it is my duty to report the recent Military activity that has taken place in His Majesty's Easternmost colony.
text=
text=Contained within these pages you will find an account of the State of Lakeshire, nestled within the Redridge Mountains.

[page 31]
next_page=32
text=The loss of Stonewatch Keep was very grave.  In previous reports I detailed for you the alliance between the Blackrock Clan of Orcs and the Warlock known as Morganth.  The Blackrock Orcs fought with horrific savagery, undoubtedly fueled by the evil magic of Morganth.  Many of His Majesty's most valiant soldiers perished trying to defend the Keep but ultimately nothing could be done.

[page 32]
next_page=33
text=Oddly enough, Morganth turned on his Orcish cohorts shortly after their wretched victory.  The Warlock constructed an arcane tower in the Northeast, and has used his powers to build a small army of Shadowhide Gnolls to serve his malicious biddings.  Both Orc and Man have fallen victim to the viscous brutes that serve the Warlock.  As to what betrayal took place between Morganth and Gath'Ilzogg, the Blackrock Warlord, one can only speculate at this point.

[page 33]
next_page=34
text=To our peril, the foul Orcs seem more concerned with the demise of His Majesty's good citizens.  In the last fortnight the Blackrock Clan staged a ruthless offensive on Lakeshire.  Many brave men lost their lives that grim day.  The Orc forces advanced with such speed and fury that the bridge spanning Everstill was brought to ruin.  Our war supplies have greatly dwindled.  We lack bandages to mend the wounds of the fallen.

[page 34]
next_page=35
text=Now I ask of His Majesty to support the good people of Lakeshire in this time of need.  We are in need of new soldiers to defend the territory as well as new instruments of war to replace those lost on the battlefield.  Food and building supplies run low as well.  Please, my Lord, help us keep the final bastion between Man and wretched Orc thriving.  The Enemy must be kept out of the Kingdom of Stormwind.

[page 35]
text=I fear a greater and darker evil brewing in the cauldron of corruption that the Northlands have become.  It is imperative that the Kingdom of Stormwind take action lest we seek to become fading memories to the living or slaves to the Enemy.
text=
text=Signed,
text=
text=Magistrate Solomon
text=Township of Lakeshire
text=Kingdom of Stormwind

[page 36]
text=Honorable Magistrate Solomon:
text=
text=I mourn alongside with you for the dead.  I shall see to it personally that the King is made aware of the situation and it is my fondest hope that I can bring reinforcements to Lakeshire.  His Majesty has been scarce of late and acts rather oddly.  I share this with you in confidence.
text=
text=Until then,
text=
text=General Marcus Jonathan
text=Kingdom of Stormwind

[page 38]
next_page=39
text=Stoutmantle --
text=
text=Some nerve sending a total stranger to discuss the Defias gang.  Once you saved my life and now you put it in great peril.
text=
text=But I owe you.  The Defias Brotherhood is larger than you think.  Every mine from Westfall to Elwynn Forest is under their control.  Kobolds and Gnolls have been enlisted to do their dirty work.  They have goblins crafting metal monsters to place in the Westfall fields to prey on the superstitions of the local residents.

[page 39]
text=They have a vast underground network built.  Bigger than you know, Stoutmantle.  From Booty Bay right to Stormwind Keep.  You may be a brave Paladin but you are a fool if you think you can shut them down.  They are working on a weapon of mass destruction.  After all, if there's one thing Stonemasons know, it's how to build big.  You didn't think this was about pumpkin farms and vineyards, now did you?  I repaid your favor.  Now leave me be!
text=
text=--W

[page 48]
text=Blacknails--
text=
text=The Sea awaits us.  We need your supplies from the North.  Strip everything: every railroad pike, every waterbucket.  We need metal.  A shipment is due from BB but long overdue.  Come through for me, Blacknails.  Send your supplies directly to the "barn" this time.  No time to squander.
text=
text=--VanCleef

[page 49]
text=Lord Stoutmantle --
text=
text=The Township of Lakeshire humbly requests the aid of your Militia.  As I write this, we find ourselves under siege from both the Blackrock Orcs and Morganth's Shadowhide Gnolls.  I would not send bidding if our situation was not severe.  We await aid from Stormwind but until such help arrives, I beg of you to lend support.  Once the Kingdom is breeched, all of Humanity is in peril.
text=
text=Magistrate Solomon

[page 52]
text=Your Honor--
text=
text=I regret to inform you that the Night Watch is unable to leave its post in Darkshire at this time.  Perhaps you were unaware that Stormwind no longer provides military support in this region.  The Night Watch has been formed and trained entirely by the people of the forest in order to defend Darkshire in Stormwind's absence.  Without the Watch, the town would fall.  I wish you luck with your plight.
text=
text=--Lord Ello Ebonlocke

[page 55]
next_page=56
text=This is a deed to an expanse of land within the region of Westfall.  It entitles the persons below with ownership rights of the designated area, as well as all items produced and any structures built within its borders.
text=
text=The document is signed by:
text=
text=    Theodore Furlbrow
text=    Verna Furlbrow

[page 56]
text=[The words below were quickly scrawled on the back of the deed]
text=
text=We leaned on Furlbrow and got his deed.  Thought it might be handy if you wanted to forge one of these for your own place.  The Furlbrows won't give us trouble.  Last I saw them they were on their way out of Westfall, stuck with a broken wagon.

[page 58]
next_page=59
text=A Moon over the Vale shines
text=Casting its glow upon the jungle
text=Where proud Warriors heed the call
text=To defend our Nation and sacred grounds.
text=
text=A Moon over the Vale shines
text=Far above the cries of battle
text=Where blood is spilled
text=Of foe and comrade alike.

[page 59]
text=And when our brethren pass
text=Into realms beyond the known
text=The soul-spirit hardens
text=Deep beneath the Vale.
text=
text=And when our brethren pass
text=Into the Mountain's Temple
text=We shall protect their eternal spirit
text=Encased within the holy blue crystal.
text=
text=And when our brethren pass
text=A Moon over the Vale shines.

[page 62]
text=By moon and fire,
text=By flesh and bone,
text=Scribed in blood,
text=Carved in stone.
text=
text=Leave this place
text=Or meet your doom
text=Death stands guard
text=Over the Emperor's Tomb.

[page 63]
text=Master Carevin,
text=
text=The bearer of this note has shown $g himself : herself
text=
text=I would thereby suggest that you give this warrior of the Light further duties--perhaps to investigate some of the townsfolk that are under suspicion of succor to the enemies of the Light.
text=
text=Yours faithfully,
text=Calor

[page 73]
next_page=185
text=The terror of these past few weeks is almost more than I can bear

[page 74]
next_page=81
text=DAY ONE
text=
text=The apprentice and I have arrived in Coldridge Valley today. The trip through the cave was mostly uneventful. We made camp a good distance away from the cave we're told the trolls have gathered in.
text=
text=DAY TWO
text=
text=Bloody wolf howling almost kept me up all night.
text=
text=I will have new wolfhide clothing in a few days.
text=
text=The lad got tangled up with a trogg today, put up a fight, and

[page 78]
text=This Armor Marker is good for one piece of leather or cloth armor, redeemable at the Timberlain household within the Eastvale Logging Camp.

[page 79]
next_page=250
text=Below is the process and schedule of Defias gold collection from the mines of Elwynn to our headquarters in Westfall.
text=
text=Collection Schedule:
text=
text=Sunday: 12:30pm
text=Wednesday: 12:30pm
text=
text=By each specified day, gold gained from the Elwynn mines will be gathered at the Brackwell pumpkin patch.  The agent in charge of these gatherings, "The Collector," will be known by the engraved ring he possesses.  A ring I gave him.

[page 81]
next_page=82
text=managed to get the better of the ugly brute, but he's now nursing a nasty cut on his arm. Looks like I'll have to do the chores for a while.
text=
text=DAY THREE
text=
text=Cold. Snowed a bit around noon.
text=
text=DAY FOUR
text=
text=The lad was back and in good spirits today, so we took our first look at the trolls. Frostmane, I'd say, judging by the markings on their skin and the various trinkets they wore on their bodies.

[page 82]
next_page=83
text=DAY FIVE
text=
text=Had the lad watch over the camp and I snuck over to the cave and took a look around. The trolls' numbers are somewhat troublesome. The Mountaineers might have to be summoned in force if the cave is to be cleared of the troll infestation.
text=
text=I realize I have not mentioned the troggs of late. They appear in the area in greater numbers, but they are so primitive that they do not pose much of a threat. Time may say if this is true or not.

[page 83]
next_page=84
text=And not a drop of ale for almost a week now.
text=
text=DAY SIX
text=
text=Cold again. Snows. Trolls. No ale.
text=
text=DAY SEVEN
text=
text=Snow below so white,
text=Sky above so blue,
text=Wolves will howl the night,
text=Not a drop of brew.
text=
text=DAY EIGHT
text=
text=The trolls are perhaps not as large a problem as we initially thought. They have some

[page 84]
text=numbers but are not well armed or organized. A small show of force should be more than adequate in dealing with the threat they pose.

[page 85]
next_page=186
text=My Journal
text=
text=The terror of these past few weeks is almost more than I can bear
text=
text=I began a journal before this one, but it remains in a place to which I cannot return.  So I will start afresh.  But this time, I will start from the true beginning.

[page 86]
next_page=87
text=A Report on the State of the Frostmane Trolls in the General Area of Coldridge Valley
text=
text=Prepared by Grelin Whitebeard, Senate Special Envoy
text=
text=From the time that I have spent observing the movement of the Frostmane trolls in the Coldridge Valley area, I have determined that they pose no large threat to dwarven settlements in the area. Moreover, they are a threat that can be eliminated with little additional support from the army. Through the assistance of Mountaineers already stationed in

[page 87]
text=Coldridge Valley and mercenaries (paid with funds set aside by the Senate prior to my dispatchment), I am confident that the problem will be solved in short order.
text=
text=This action has been authorized with the sanction given to me by King Bronzebeard.

[page 88]
next_page=89
text=A Report on the State of the Frostmane Trolls in the General Area of Dun Morogh
text=
text=The trolls situated in Dun Morogh are largely centralized in Frostmane Hold, a mountain cave on the western border. They have sufficient numbers to cause some concern, however, they seem more than content to stay in their cave. This is, no doubt, because they do not wish to incur the wrath of the dwarves again, and risk total extermination. Their actions can be considered territorial, if anything, and it is

[page 89]
next_page=90
text=my belief that they pose no real threat to us, so long as we do not encroach upon their territory. This may be a situation unappealing to the dwarven populace, but given the dispersal of military resources, it may be prudent to relegate the extermination of the trolls to a lower level of importance, and continue to focus on the threat posed by the troggs and the Dark Irons.
text=
text=Enclosed, you will also find a copy of my brother Grelin's report on Anvilmar.
text=
text=Signed,
text=Senir Whitebeard

[page 90]
next_page=91
text=A Report on the State of the Frostmane Trolls in the General Area of Coldridge Valley
text=
text=Prepared by Grelin Whitebeard, Senate Special Envoy
text=
text=From the time that I have spent observing the movement of the Frostmane trolls in the Coldridge Valley area, I have determined that they pose no large threat to dwarven settlements in the area. Moreover, they are a threat that can be eliminated with little additional support from the army. Through the assistance of Mountaineers already stationed in

[page 91]
text=Coldridge Valley and mercenaries (paid with funds set aside by the Senate prior to my dispatchment), I am confident that the problem will be solved in short order.
text=
text=This action has been authorized with the sanction given to me by King Bronzebeard.

[page 100]
text=Just as I was about to question Ajeck's lack of interest in the day's hunting strategy, she reached for her quiver, drew an arrow and unleashed a shot right towards poor Barnil.  But it was not Barnil that Ajeck was shooting at.  For when Barnil stepped aside, mouth agape, a large river crocilisk floated to the surface with Ajeck's arrow perfectly placed between his two large eyes.

[page 102]
text=During one such misstep, Erlgadin laid a heavy hand on Barnil's shoulder.  Ajeck and I gave a casual glance, assuming the man was simply giving Barnil a much-needed scolding for his carelessness.  Erlgadin, however, gestured slowly with his head toward a nearby fallen tree.  Gazing back at us were two piercing black eyes just above a mouthful of razor sharp fangs.

[page 104]
text=The kill brought about a festive mood amongst the expedition.  Barnil poured mead for all to enjoy.  But our festivities were short-lived.  As we were preparing the corpse for transport back to base camp we were all caught off guard by a horrendous growl.  In all my years I have never heard anything so blood curdling.

[page 108]
text=On this day we ventured to the south, following some fresh panther tracks.  Soon we reached a ravine spanned by a tremendous rope bridge.  I could not help but to think of Brann's descriptive writings of this region when I saw the engineering marvel.  So often it was assumed that the native Trolls were a primitive and uneducated race yet as I gazed upon the master craftsmanship of the bridge I was able to recognize the skill with which the Troll builders overcame the seemingly impossible feat.

[page 110]
text=Both Ajeck and Sir Erlgadin stood poised, guns leveled at the bristling overgrowth at the base of the swaying trees.  The midday sun beat heavily upon us.  A slow trickle of perspiration trailed down from Elrgadin's temple as he pulled the pin back.  Upon the sound of the click, the thick flora parted and a large black panther -- a beautiful specimen -- darted out onto the plain.

[page 112]
text=His gun tossed back violently in his arms.  The barrel swooped sideways and came up beneath Ajeck's rifle.  Ajeck had chosen that exact moment to pull her trigger.  The rifle, the aim now knocked clumsily toward the tree line, went off with a distinct boom.  A flock of birds screamed out of the canopy, scattering in every direction.  A plume of smoke rose from the tree.  We watched in awe as a tremendous branch fell squarely on the fleeing panther, breaking its back.

[page 114]
text=We set out at first light, heading south past the Tkashi Ruins.  Barnil voiced concern that we might encounter members of the Bloodscalp Tribe.  I reminded Barnil that the Bloodscalps were more concerned with destroying their tribal enemy, the Skullsplitters.  Needless to say, Barnil was not comforted in the least.  I, however, had a loaded rifle, a satchel full of gunpowder and three deadly hunters with me to ease any concerns of an unfriendly ambush.

[page 115]
text=I've stood before a towering Infernal on the battlefield, the army of the Burning Legion advancing from all directions.  An unruly band of Trolls seems as harmless as a jackrabbit in the hills of Dun Morogh.
text=
text=We passed the Tkashi Ruins without event, much to Barnil's relief.  The party proceeded to head westward, toward the Great Sea, skirting the Ruins of Zul'Kunda just to the south.  As we ascended the high sea bluffs we spotted our first Raptor.

[page 119]
text=I led the party toward the sea, hoping the shoreline would provide refuge from the Raptors.  In our haste we had drifted too far north, to a precariously high elevation.  The mistake was made.  The fault was mine.  We stopped just short of a sheer cliff, the Raptors just a few paces behind.

[page 120]
text=I stepped slowly forward, gun raised.  I had led these brave hunters to their death.  I would die defending them.  Lashtail Raptors are particularly fierce, known for their unrelenting blood-thirst.  They far outnumbered us.  But I would be damned if I let them kill me and my comrades without shedding some of their own blood first.

[page 121]
text=Ajeck and Sir Erlgadin readied their weapons, flanking me on either side, our backs to the sea.  Barnil let out a defeated sigh and drew his axe.  The Lashtails were almost upon us.  Their steady stride had slowed.  They were stalking their prey now for they knew they had us trapped.

[page 153]
next_page=154
text=Our first day went as well as one can expect first days to go.  Most of our time was preoccupied with making the necessary arrangements to establish a base camp.  I located an ideal setting by a freshwater river inlet.  Judging by the old, abandoned docks nearby, this site was inhabited sometime ago.  As for the original inhabitants, only time can tell that tale.

[page 154]
next_page=155
text=For this expedition I have assembled Ajeck Rouack and Sir S. J Erlgadin, along with my trusted servant, Barnil Stonepot.  I fought alongside Ajeck's father's side in many battles in defense of the Alliance.  Seeing her grown is quite special.  Her father schooled her well in the ways of weaponry.  Her skills with a bow make me wonder if there is elven blood running through those veins.

[page 155]
next_page=156
text=Sir S. J. Erlgadin comes from human aristocracy.  His father, Count Erlgadin, was renowned for his generosity.  It was the Count who lobbied for improved working conditions for the Stonemasons' Guild during the restoration of Stormwind after the Second Great War.

[page 156]
next_page=157
text=In the years that followed, after Stormwind betrayed the Stonemasons' Guild, Sir Erlgadin grew bitter about the role of the nobles within the Kingdom.  He no longer wished to uphold the position that his father's bloodline had earned for him in the House of Nobles.  But I digress.  The purpose of this story is not to act as a political treatise or a biography.  This is the account of my experiences hunting big game in the green hills of Stranglethorn.

[page 157]
next_page=158
text=We rose with the sun.  Barnil began to prepare the morning meal. I noticed Ajeck's attention was somewhat distracted.  The day's trek would be long and our hunt would bring us close to danger.  A lack of focus could easily lead to an errant mishap.  Yet Ajeck seemed unable to divert her gaze from Barnil who stood by the edge of the river rinsing out his mess kit.

[page 158]
next_page=159
text=Just as I was about to question Ajeck's lack of interest in the day's hunting strategy, she reached for her quiver, drew an arrow and unleashed a shot right towards poor Barnil.  But it was not Barnil that Ajeck was shooting at.  For when Barnil stepped aside, mouth agape, a large river crocilisk floated to the surface with Ajeck's arrow perfectly placed between his two large eyes.

[page 159]
next_page=160
text=We set out toward the west, through the thick overgrowth of the tangled jungle.  Moving with slow, deliberate steps we paced through thick foliage in search of prey.  The morning passed in frustrated silence.  Nothing was stirring in the Vale, not even a breeze.  By the afternoon, the expedition had grown restless Barnil no longer strode with the cautious steps of a predator tracking prey.  Rather he clumsily clomped along the path often stepping noisily on dried leaves or fallen branches.

[page 160]
text=During one such misstep, Erlgadin laid a heavy hand on Barnil's shoulder.  Ajeck and I gave a casual glance, assuming the man was simply giving Barnil a much-needed scolding for his carelessness.  Erlgadin, however, gestured slowly with his head toward a nearby fallen tree.  Gazing back at us were two piercing black eyes just above a mouthful of razor sharp fangs.

[page 169]
next_page=170
text=The Humans trained their sites on the panther as it ran along the edge of the tree line.  The barrels of their guns moved in perfect parallel tandem.  Barnil gave me an urging glance but I shook my head no.  This hunt was for the Humans, not Barnil or me.  Erlgadin fired a booming shot, missing the panther altogether.  Apparently he was unprepared for the violent kickback of the rifle blast.

[page 170]
next_page=171
text=His gun tossed back violently in his arms.  The barrel swooped sideways and came up beneath Ajeck's rifle.  Ajeck had chosen that exact moment to pull her trigger.  The rifle, the aim now knocked clumsily toward the tree line, went off with a distinct boom.  A flock of birds screamed out of the canopy, scattering in every direction.  A plume of smoke rose from the tree.  We watched in awe as a tremendous branch fell squarely on the fleeing panther, breaking its back.

[page 171]
next_page=172
text=As the weeks passed our stockpile of panther and tiger skins grew immense.  I decided it was time for the expedition to shift our focus to a new challenge: Raptors.
text=
text=The Humans, while appreciative of the training Barnil and I offered, decided to refrain from hunting with firearms.  Ajeck was much more comfortable with a finely strung bow and Sir Erlgadin never left camp without his sturdy crossbow.

[page 172]
next_page=173
text=We set out at first light, heading south past the Tkashi Ruins.  Barnil voiced concern that we might encounter members of the Bloodscalp Tribe.  I reminded Barnil that the Bloodscalps were more concerned with destroying their tribal enemy, the Skullsplitters.  Needless to say, Barnil was not comforted in the least.  I, however, had a loaded rifle, a satchel full of gunpowder and three deadly hunters with me to ease any concerns of an unfriendly ambush.

[page 173]
next_page=174
text=I've stood before a towering Infernal on the battlefield, the army of the Burning Legion advancing from all directions.  An unruly band of Trolls seems as harmless as a jackrabbit in the hills of Dun Morogh.
text=
text=We passed the Tkashi Ruins without event, much to Barnil's relief.  The party proceeded to head westward, toward the Great Sea, skirting the Ruins of Zul'Kunda just to the south.  As we ascended the high sea bluffs we spotted our first Raptor.

[page 174]
next_page=175
text=The beast never so much as detected our presence.  In fact, the only greeting he received from the expedition was a bullet between the eyes.  Sir Erlgadin let out a hearty *hurrah* as Ajeck nodded toward me with keen approval.  I sifted through my pack in search of my pipe, hoping to enjoy a celebratory smoke.  Barnil began to scurry up the hillside to retrieve the Raptor's corpse.  I stared at the fallen beast with the satisfaction that accompanies every big kill.

[page 175]
next_page=176
text=But I could not bask in the glory of the kill for long.  For when I turned my eyes toward the horizon, several silhouettes appeared cresting the hill, just above poor Barnil.
text=
text=*Flee, Barnil!* I shouted.  Ajeck, Sir Erlgadin and myself loosed a volley of bullets, arrows and bolts over Barnil and toward the pursuing raptors.  One of us landed a kill amidst the confusion.

[page 176]
text=Our hastily aimed shots were enough to buy Barnil's escape.  Barnil clamored back down the hill and rejoined the party. We scurried off into the jungle
text=
text=The hunters were now the hunted.

[page 177]
next_page=178
text=I led the party toward the sea, hoping the shoreline would provide refuge from the Raptors.  In our haste we had drifted too far north, to a precariously high elevation.  The mistake was made.  The fault was mine.  We stopped just short of a sheer cliff, the Raptors just a few paces behind.

[page 178]
next_page=179
text=I stepped slowly forward, gun raised.  I had led these brave hunters to their death.  I would die defending them.  Lashtail Raptors are particularly fierce, known for their unrelenting blood-thirst.  They far outnumbered us.  But I would be damned if I let them kill me and my comrades without shedding some of their own blood first.

[page 179]
next_page=180
text=Ajeck and Sir Erlgadin readied their weapons, flanking me on either side, our backs to the sea.  Barnil let out a defeated sigh and drew his axe.  The Lashtails were almost upon us.  Their steady stride had slowed.  They were stalking their prey now for they knew they had us trapped.

[page 180]
next_page=181
text=And then something miraculous happened.  From off to our side we heard the distinct and terrifying roar of the great white tiger.  Despite their numbers, the Raptors turned and scattered in all directions.  We saw but a brief white flash as the tiger darted past us and pounced on one of the Raptors.  No command needed to be given.  All four members of our party knew it was time to run.

[page 181]
text=We sprinted all the way back to base camp, never slowing.  Later that night we sat quietly around the campfire, knowing our lives had been saved by a bizarre twist of fate.  Such are the risks of the big game hunter.  We toy with fate by delivering it.  Yet each of us, at some point, will face fate's razor sharp teeth.  This Dwarf is just glad that moment did not come upon the green hills of Stranglethorn.

[page 182]
next_page=183
text=Honorable Colleagues and Truthseekers
text=
text=The site's excavation continues, but it is slowed by the Troggs mentioned in my last report.  I am confident they can be dealt with, even if some of these Troggs are more aggressive than usual.
text=
text=More artifacts were found recently, though in all cases but one (which I will discuss below), recent findings are of the same caliber as before - interesting, if not enlightening.

[page 183]
next_page=184
text=There has been one exception.  The peculiarly carved idols found recently (a brief description of these was included in my last report) seem to have an effect on the Troggs at the site.  They are drawn to the stone carvings, and some Troggs are driven berserk by them!
text=
text=More study is required for any conclusions regarding these idols, but I remain hopeful that they will shed light on a link between the Troggs and the Titans.

[page 184]
text=Lastly, I must restate my request for blastpowder.  My supplies are very low, which severely hampers the success of the excavation.  I was told a resupply of blastpowder was forthcoming, though I have not yet received it.
text=
text=What, may I ask, is the delay?
text=
text=Respectfully,
text=Prospector Darteus Ironband

[page 185]
next_page=205
text=It began with the finding of that cursed scythe in Roland's Doom.  Before the Scythe, the terrors of this place seemed as tame as Northshire Valley.
text=
text=But ever since I found the haft of the Scythe jutting from that pile of rubble in the mine and, curse me, pulled it free, Roland's Doom became a place of vile death!

[page 186]
next_page=187
text=It began with the finding of that cursed scythe in the mine they call Roland's Doom.  Yes, that was the start of it.  Before that, the Defias Brotherhood was happy with our progress in Duskwood.  Before the Scythe, the terrors of this place seemed as tame as Northshire Valley.
text=
text=But ever since I found the haft of the Scythe jutting from that pile of rubble in the mine and, curse me, pulled it free, Roland's Doom became a place of vile death!

[page 187]
next_page=188
text=If I had known what would happen, I would have cut off my own hand to keep from grasping that rune-carved wood.  So many regrets!  I always thought that was a privilege of the old.  I now know that it is not the old - it is the hopeless - who don the mantle of regret, unable and unwilling to shrug it from shoulders stooped with misery.
text=
text=But enough waxing like a pipe-mad poet.  I must continue with the chronicle...

[page 188]
next_page=189
text=After the Scythe was freed, a change rippled through the mine.  Light from our flickering torches warped, and the strength of our voices seemed beyond our control.  Sometimes a man's whisper roared through the tunnels forcing hands on ears, and sometimes our shouts barely traveled a few steps before diminishing into a hint on the wind.
text=
text=Unnerving, yes, but we did not have long to wonder at this strangeness.  It was but a harbinger of what truly drove us from the mine.  The Worgen.

[page 189]
next_page=190
text=They came at us from everywhere, clawing from hidden holes at our feet and dropping upon us from silent perches above.  Half our men fell in those first panicked minutes.  The rest, including myself, tried to flee.  As I ran I saw so many of my brothers taken by tooth and claw, heard so many screams cut short or gurgle to silence.
text=
text=For all I know, I am the only human to escape that place.

[page 190]
next_page=191
text=I can only guess why I survived that night.  I have always been cautious, always quick to flinch from jabs and leap free of pitfalls.  My nickname, Jitters, comes from this trait.  So perhaps it was just that knack for caution that saved me...
text=
text=Or maybe it was the Scythe I pulled from the rubble.  It cannot be the Scythe itself, for I lost it during my frantic flight.  But if it was I who brought the Worgen to Duskwood, then perhaps the Worgen afforded me a rare courtesy.  Curse them.

[page 191]
next_page=192
text=Or perhaps, I am doomed to witness the change I wrought on Duskwood.  Perhaps it is my fate to watch as the Worgen tear into this land, staining it ever darker with their foulness.
text=
text=If that truly is my fate, then it is twofold.  For the Worgen are not the only power to clutch at Duskwood - the fiends from Deadwind Pass have also staked claim.
text=
text=That is the next chapter of my tale, and I pray it is the last...

[page 192]
next_page=193
text=After surviving the flight from Roland's Doom, I hid within a barn owned by a man named Sven.  I spent a few days in the barn, and such horror lingered with me that I never once made myself known to Sven or his family.  But from what I saw from my hiding place, I knew these farmers were quite decent folk.  Had I stepped from my concealment I think they would have taken me in, but trust is hard for me.  Harder still after that shock in the mine.
text=
text=So I remained hidden.  And it saved my life.

[page 193]
next_page=194
text=A few days after I arrived at the barn, Sven left his farm for Darkshire.  He kissed his wife and smiled to his children and promised to return soon with toys and sweets.  The poor man.  That was the last time he saw his family unmutilated.
text=
text=At least they parted happily.  And at least his wife was the first to die, and was freed from seeing the slaughter of her children.  But these small graces do nothing for me.  I saw what happened, and it will ever haunt my dreams.

[page 194]
next_page=195
text=My hand trembles as I recall the details of that night, when Sven was away and his family was doomed to face the Black Riders alone.  Again regret claws at me, for I was there and could have risen against those fiends from Deadwind Pass.  But it is a false regret.  It is the same that plagues any survivor of a tragedy.  I know that, had I left my place of hiding I too would have been killed, my body ripped and torn, and its pieces spread so widely that I would not be recognized.

[page 195]
next_page=196
text=But, even though I know I could have done nothing to stop this heinous murder, one true regret does remain: I brought the Black Riders to Sven's farm.  My discovery of the Scythe not only unleashed the Worgen upon Duskwood - it drew the Riders from Deadwind Pass.
text=
text=I know this because, just before they began their slaughter they asked one question to Sven's wife as she held her children close, giving them what comfort she could though she was certain death was near.

[page 196]
next_page=197
text="The Scythe of Elune." one of the Riders shrieked in a voice both harsh and shrill, like the grinding of an axe on stone.  And the last word - Elune - it croaked, as if choking on the sound.
text=
text=Dread gripped me when I heard that voice, both from the horrid sound of it, and because...I knew the Scythe of which the Rider spoke.  It must be the same cursed thing I drew from the rocks of Roland's Doom days before.  It was what the Black Riders sought!
text=
text=And it was what would kill Sven's family.

[page 197]
next_page=198
text=I never learned the name of Sven's wife, as she was only ever called "dearest," and "my love," and "mommy" by her husband and children.  But I wish I knew it.  I am the only living memory of her deed that day, and although she was just a farmer's wife, never have I seen a man or woman act with such bravery.
text=
text=Of course she did not know of the Scythe, but when she learned the Riders sought it, in an instant a plan formed in her head.
text=
text=And it was bold and clever.  If only it had worked.

[page 198]
next_page=199
text="The Scythe?" she said in a calm voice.  "Of course I do.  Who here wouldn't?"  She looked at the Riders with steady eyes, and I would have sworn she spoke the truth if I had not known better. There was no way she could know about the Scythe.
text=
text=Her gambit paid off.  The same Rider who uttered the question before bent his head slightly toward her, and shrieked, "Where?"
text=
text="I'll take you.  All of you," she said, and I could see a small hope flicker behind her eyes.

[page 199]
next_page=200
text="But the way is far, and my children would slow us.  We must leave them."
text=
text=Her trick was simple, but simple tricks have the best hope of success.  If it worked, it would lead the Riders away from the farm.  She would be lost, but her children would be safe.  And it would work, if only the Riders believed her noble lies.
text=
text=Although I have never been a student of the Light, I prayed fiercely for Sven's wife as she stood against those terrible Riders.
text=
text="Please," I prayed.  "Let them believe."

[page 200]
next_page=201
text=They stood, frozen, and she met their gazes with calm.  Then one rider looked up, as if hearing a distant call.  He drew from his garb a small gem and peered into it.  He then gestured with the bauble toward Sven's wife.  A light crept from the Rider toward the woman, shaping itself into a grim, white hand.  She stared into the light, unflinching, but I could see uncertainty behind her mask of confidence.  When the hand reached her, it spread its fingers over her head.
text=
text=And it squeezed.

[page 201]
next_page=202
text=Sven's wife stood rigid as a board, and her eyes grew wide.  And although her lips pulled back to mouth a scream, no sound escaped.  After a few moments of this torture the hand released her, dropping her to her knees.  The Rider who held the bauble then sat erect in his saddle, and a loud voice erupted from it.
text=
text="This woman lies," it said in a voice that has scarred my dreams.  "She has not seen the Scythe."

[page 202]
next_page=203
text=After this, the Rider's shoulders stooped slightly, as if a spirit within him had fled.  And then in the old, shrieking voice it used earlier, these final words were uttered:
text=
text="The Lord has spoken.  Kill them."

[page 203]
next_page=246
text=I cannot describe what happened next.  It is clear in my mind, but even my wretched soul cannot put to paper the events of those next few, grisly minutes.
text=
text=I can only write that Sven's family was killed.  And soon after, Sven returned to this grim, deathly scene.  Such grief was in him that I was afraid to show myself.  And so afraid was I that he would find me, I fled from my hiding spot in the barn.  I do not know where Sven is now, but I pray he will, some day, find peace.

[page 205]
next_page=206
text=After the Scythe was freed, They came at us from everywhere, clawing from hidden holes at our feet and dropping upon us from silent perches above.  Half our men fell in those first panicked minutes.  The rest, including myself, tried to flee.  As I ran I saw so many of my brothers taken by tooth and claw, heard so many screams cut short or gurgle to silence.

[page 206]
next_page=207
text=I can only guess why I survived that night.  I have always been cautious, always quick to flinch from jabs and leap free of pitfalls.  My nickname comes from this trait.  So perhaps it was just that knack for caution that saved me...
text=
text=Or maybe it was the Scythe I pulled from the rubble.  It cannot be the Scythe itself, for I lost it during my frantic flight.  But if it was I who brought the Worgen to Duskwood, then perhaps the Worgen afforded me a rare courtesy.  Curse them.

[page 207]
next_page=208
text=After surviving the flight from Roland's Doom, I hid within a barn owned by a man named Sven.  I spent a few days in the barn, and such horror lingered with me that I never once made myself known to Sven or his family.  But from what I saw from my hiding place, I knew these farmers were quite decent folk.  Had I stepped from my concealment I think they would have taken me in, but trust is hard for me.  Harder still after that shock in the mine.
text=
text=So I remained hidden.

[page 208]
text=<The rest of the book is blank>

[page 209]
next_page=210
text=REPORT: Kobolds
text=
text=The activity of kobolds has increased in the vicinity of Northshire Valley.  They camp north of the abbey and within the Echo Ridge Mine in alarming numbers.  I have marshalled paladins, warriors and other local folk to aid me in ridding us of the vermin.
text=
text=This progresses well.  And I will update as needed.

[page 210]
next_page=211
text=REPORT: Thieves
text=
text=More alarming than the kobolds, a human gang of thieves has emerged in the valley.  They wear red bandanas and call themselves a brotherhood.  This level of organization may lead to trouble, both here and in all of Elwynn Forest.
text=
text=We have identified one of their leaders--one Garrick Padfoot--and hope to bring him to justice soon.

[page 211]
next_page=212
text=REPORT: Wolves
text=
text=There has been an increase in reported animal attacks in Northshire.  Eagan believes the  wolves in the valley were scared here from Duskwood.
text=
text=Although the wolves rarely hunt human prey, the sheer number of them has caused some incidents with farmers.  And many livestock have gone missing.

[page 212]
text=COMMENDATION:
text=
text=The bearer of these documents is to be awarded Deputy status with the Stormwind Army, having served Northshire with eagerness and distinction.  I am confident you will find this person useful in Elwynn Forest.
text=
text=signed:
text=-Marshal Douglas McBride,
text=Stormwind Army, Northshire

[page 213]
text=Westfall Stew
text=
text=3 parts Stringy Vulture Meat
text=3 Goretusk Snouts
text=3 Murloc Eyes
text=3 Okra
text=
text=Mix together and bring to a boil.  Let simmer for at least two hours before serving.

[page 214]
next_page=252
text=Dearest Yvette,
text=
text=I will entrust this letter to our fastest runner.  I pray he can find a way through the forces surrounding us.  And I pray you read these words, for they are the last you will hear of me.
text=
text=My only comfort in these dark days is the relief I feel, knowing that you are free of my fate.

[page 218]
text=I fear the war between the Stonefields and the Maclures will kill Tommy Joe and Maybell's blossoming romance, and in times like these - where dark news and rumors of war loom over us - youth and love must be nurtured.
text=
text=So, the favor: I ask that you use your skills and concoct a potion or elixir to aid these young lovers in their quest for each other.
text=
text=Thank you, William.  And please, when you have some time away from work, come visit.  We'll have a few chuckles over the past.
text=
text=-Mildred

[page 235]
text=Greetings Ello Ebonlocke, Mayor of Darkshire.  I'm afraid I have news for your town.  Grave news.
text=You see, I am a creator.  I fooled the bearer of this note into aiding me in my latest, most dire creation - a fiend of flesh and bone and twisted metal!  As you read this, it's likely outside my humble dwelling, gnashing its teeth and waiting for my word to go forth and slaughter.
text=But you'll know soon enough.
text=-The Embalmer

[page 236]
next_page=237
text=Through study of various fossilized creatures I have deduced that in ancient times, a great plague swept through the waters of Lake Lordamere.  What caused this?  We might never know.  But the rate of contamination appears to be extremely high based on dense concentrations of remains distributed across the lake bed.

[page 237]
next_page=238
text=In an attempt to uncover the past, I have begun to examine the creatures of the present in hopes of finding the missing clue to this mystery.  The Lake Skulkers and Lake Creepers are ancient beasts who inhabit the islands in the center of Lake Lordamere.  There is a moss which grows on them that resembles trace materials on some of the fossils.  More research needs to be done before I can speculate as to what this connection means.

[page 238]
text=While trying to collect moss samples I came across the scene of a bloody battle.  The Vile Fin tribe of Murlocs had come under siege by a marauding band of Gnolls.  There were both Gnoll and Murloc corpses littering the battlefield.  As I passed a mangled Murloc body I noticed a strange hardened tumor protruding from the wound.  As I began to study the tumor it became clear it held similar properties to the moss I was collecting.  Unfortunately, I could find no other tumors besides the one.

[page 244]
text=Lord Bethor Iceshard,
text=
text=As per your instructions, I send to you the agent you requested.  It is the bearer of this note.
text=
text=This person has shown to be dependable and able to follow orders, is proven against the forces of the Scourge, and is my choice for your mission.
text=
text=May She reign supreme,
text=-Magistrate Sevren
text=
text=

[page 245]
text=Missing: Corporal Keeshan
text=
text=Last seen during the bloody battle at Stonewatch Keep, Corporal Keeshan was reported to have been dragged away by Blackrock Orcs.
text=
text=It is believed that Corporal Keeshan is being held as a prisoner of war at the Blackrock encampment north of Lakeshire, just west of the pass leading to the Burning Steppes.
text=
text=By mandate of Magistrate Solomon, anyone who aids in the recovery of Corporal Keeshan shall be rewarded by Marshal Marris.

[page 246]
text=I spent the next few weeks moving from place to place, never lingering for fear of the Riders.  I am now in the abandoned town of Raven's Hill, as always, hiding.  I cannot face whatever power they used against Sven's wife, and I know it searches Duskwood, even still, for the Scythe.  It is lost to me, and I thank the Light for this, for had I kept it I know I would have been found.  Even now, I know in my heart that I will be found.
text=
text=I'm so tired.

[page 248]
next_page=257
text=Greetings, Master,
text=Forgive me for the method of sending this message.  My shadow mages in Alterac are intent on their tasks, forcing me to use a foreign messenger -- conscripted from our new "allies" -- to bring you this report.  But I have encrypted this letter with one of our most esoteric ciphers.  Its words are safe from these yokels.

[page 250]
next_page=251
text=A party from Defias headquarters will contact the Collector, after which he will transfer the gathered gold.
text=
text=Be sure this process is performed without fail and with utmost discretion.  The Collector is responsible for the transfer of gold, but ultimately it is the responsibility of each member of the Defias Brotherhood to ensure that his role is acted out with attention and discipline.

[page 251]
text=Remember, my brothers, we were once proud craftsmen.  We'll perform our current duties with the same precision we used in our past trade.
text=
text=-EVC

[page 252]
next_page=253
text=I fear my father made a grave error when he decided to remain and defend our home.  The forces of the Scourge rage through Tirisfal Glades, and although we are well fortified and well stocked, after the betrayal of my brother Devlin we lack the strength and numbers to withstand their continued assault.
text=
text=If you receive this letter, Yvette, then know that Devlin is a traitor.

[page 253]
next_page=254
text=Devlin despaired and sought an escape from our ill fortunes, and in doing so he made a pact with the Scourge.  I do not know what price was promised him for his betrayal, but I'm sure it was laced with lies.
text=
text=If you see my brother, then flee from him.  He is a fiend.  A few nights ago he murdered two of our watchmen and let a small group of Scourge through the breach, leading them to where many more of us slept.

[page 254]
next_page=255
text=Their ambush was brutal.  They slew a third of us before we could take them down.  Now, we barely have enough men to watch our borders.  It is only a matter of time before our wearying guard drops and the Scourge attack.
text=
text=And although I saw Devlin's face amidst the desperate men and gaunt-faced Scourge on that cursed night, he slipped away before I could catch him.  He might be dead, or he might still live as an agent of the Scourge.
text=
text=Either way, he is a monster.

[page 255]
next_page=256
text=Devlin warned us that if we tried to face the Scourge, then we were doomed.  He told us this when they first entered Tirisfal Glades, well before they encircled our home.  Perhaps he was pleading with us to leave, or perhaps he was gloating.
text=
text=It was always hard to understand Devlin's motives.  Since he was a child, he was a mystery to us.

[page 256]
text=But he was right.  We are doomed.  The Agamand family line will end.  Although I still live, I know I will soon be dead.
text=
text=I am not afraid, and I do not regret remaining with my family.  But my last thoughts will be of you.
text=
text=Live on, my beloved Yvette, and I will find peace,
text=-Thurman

[page 257]
next_page=258
text=Our plans progress well
text=And so they have struck a bargain with us.  A bargain they will regret.

[page 258]
next_page=259
text=Today the Syndicate holds little power in these lands, but they know the area well and have assembled sufficient manpower for the tasks ahead.  With proper guiding I am confident that soon, the Syndicate will again rule Alterac.
text=In addition, we have urged the Syndicate to aim for the city of Stromgarde in the nearby Arathi Highlands.  The city is a battlefield between our forces, ogres and the humans of Stromgarde, but we feel that with careful tactics we will own this once great city.

[page 259]
next_page=315
text=And when this is done, the next stage of our plan may begin.  With a nation of our own and a base of power in this region, we may then prepare the way for the Third Host.
text=Soon, the Legion Lords will reward our works by raining fire from the skies once again!

[page 266]
next_page=267
text=Kegan Darkmar, leader of the small group of undead who came to us in search of asylum from their "brethren," defies our common attitudes toward his kind.  His skin may be rotting and blood may have long stopped flowing through his veins, but he acts very nobly and seems to care more for his compatriots' safety than his own.
text=
text=Indeed, there is a humanity within him that, I confess, I sometimes see lacking in the humans around me.

[page 267]
next_page=268
text=But why do I mention this?  I do so to give credence to what I am about to write, for these words came from Kegan's lips and it is my hope that my colleagues will, upon reading this journal, know why I believe what he said:
text=
text="Remnants of the Old Gods still linger in the deep hollows of the world.  New forces seek to harness that ancient power, and those who succeed will have a terrible weapon against their enemies."

[page 268]
next_page=269
text=That is what Kegan uttered as he handed his bloodstone pendant to me, and there was fear, and maybe reverence, in his eyes as he did so.  And as his hands met with mine they lingered, as if reluctant to give up the pendant.  Revulsion swept through me, yet to this day I know not if I reviled against his dead flesh pressed to mine, or if the pendant itself made my skin crawl.
text=
text=For I felt a power within it.  A deep, hidden, hungry power.  And one yearning for release.

[page 269]
next_page=270
text=Although my colleagues in Dalaran were cautious to study the bloodstones that Kegan and his followers brought with them, instead quarantining the four refugees and leaving the bloodstones on their persons, the sincerity of Kegan obliged me to study his bloodstone pendant.

[page 270]
next_page=271
text=My hopes were to verify for my colleagues that this type of stone did possess magical properties, and if we wizards of Dalaran did not wish to exploit the power of bloodstones, we should at the least learn their properties, since our foes may one day use them against us.
text=
text=And so my studies began.

[page 271]
next_page=272
text=I started my tests with the assumption that bloodstone was a type of rock, like quartz or obsidian.  So I began a series of procedures to determine: what minerals were contained within bloodstone, what forces were applied to produce its color and hardness, and other properties common to rocks and ore.  But the bloodstone pendant, to my frustration, did not react to my procedures as would normal ore.

[page 272]
next_page=273
text=In fact, it often acted in precisely the opposite fashion as expected!  It was almost as if the pendant was deliberately fouling my experiments.
text=
text=Like it was thinking, and alive.
text=
text=Angered but not discouraged, I switched from assuming the pendant was an inert piece of rock, to assuming it was a living thing.
text=
text=But again, I failed.

[page 273]
next_page=274
text=None of my new tests brought to light any revelations of the origin of bloodstone.  At the time the only riddle I solved was that bloodstone was neither living, nor dead!
text=
text=But it was then, at the brink of failure, that a breakthrough was made.  My latest test involved a glass beaker whose brim was chipped, leaving a small, jagged space along its edge.  When the test was over, again revealing nothing, I went to clean my worktable and cut myself on the beaker.

[page 274]
next_page=275
text=The cut was not deep but nevertheless bled fiercely.  Before I could wrap my injured finger in a bandage, a good deal of my blood had spilled on my worktable.
text=
text=And as I was cleaning up this new mess, I noticed the strangest thing...

[page 275]
next_page=276
text=The blood that had spilled near the bloodstone pendant was slowly moving toward the piece of jewelry, as if gravity had somehow bent itself toward the bloodstone.  The blood that touched the pendant seemed to disappear, and the red color of the stone deepened as it drank more of my blood.

[page 276]
next_page=277
text=After seeing this my head grew light, perhaps from my recent injury (though I did not believe I had lost that much blood) or perhaps because I had finally, after so much frustration, uncovered one of the bloodstone's properties.  I reached behind me for my work stool and sat down, pondering.  Thoughts and questions raced through my head, dizzying and threatening to topple me.
text=
text=Does bloodstone drink blood?  Does it crave blood?  Does it attract blood?

[page 277]
next_page=278
text=Or, is bloodstone made of blood?  And if so, then whose blood?  Mine?  The blood of any human?  Any animal?
text=
text=Or maybe bloodstone is the blood of some unknown thing, the very thing that Kegan had both feared and revered when he handed me his pendant.
text=
text=That is the question that must be answered.  It is the key.

[page 278]
next_page=279
text=Fire rekindled within me, I then dove back into my experiments.  This time I made no assumptions, methodically performing every test at my disposal.  This increased my required efforts tremendously, but I would be more likely to make discoveries.
text=
text=And, although my lab here is small and I have no subordinates to spare to aid, I did find one more intriguing quality of bloodstone...

[page 279]
next_page=280
text=In addition to blood, there are elemental forces fused within the stone.  Fire, water, thunder and rock are mixed with the blood (but again, the blood of what?), and although this mixture is outwardly inert, all these forces seem to rage inwardly against each other.  So many more questions were then raised about this amazing, and foreboding material.

[page 280]
next_page=281
text=But to answer those questions, more studies and experiments must be performed on the pendant, and I fear that the Lordamere Interment Camp cannot marshal the manpower nor the equipment for the task.  So I sent the bloodstone pendant with a courier to Dalaran with specific instructions on how to test it, so they may avoid my earlier frustrations.

[page 281]
next_page=282
text=As I waited for the results of these tests, I spent my time speaking to Kegan.  Although I constantly pressed him for what he knew about bloodstones, he never told me more than what he said the day he gave me his pendant.  And he did not often speak of his time within the fold of what he called "the Forsaken," which is the name he calls his clan of undead.

[page 282]
next_page=283
text=But Kegan was very eager to speak on other subjects, particularly his time growing up in Lordaeron before its fall.
text=
text=He still holds much love for that lost kingdom, even though it is now ruined, and dead.
text=
text=My growing fondness for Kegan gave me patience as I waited for my test results.

[page 283]
next_page=284
text=But after weeks of no news my patience faltered, and upon further inquires to Dalaran I learned that the bloodstone never reached my colleagues.  My courier was somehow lost on the way, and the bloodstone pendant was lost with him!
text=
text=This is grave news, for although Kegan and his followers still have bloodstone specimens with which we may experiment, I fear the pendant my fall into unsavory hands.

[page 284]
text=I have sent another messenger to Dalaran, and hear that even now they are scouring for the pendant, in the ruins outside our protective sphere.
text=
text=I only hope we're not too late.

[page 285]
next_page=387
text=Tale of Gri'lek the Wanderer
text=
text=[...The beginnings of the tablet were worn and erased.  But the end was legible...]
text=
text=Gri'lek stamped through the jungle.  And his eyes burned and his chest rumbled, for there was great anger in him.
text=
text=In fury he roared to the sky, and he raised his arm.  He raised his left arm, grown strong and sure from hunting without its twin.
text=
text=For Gri'lek's right arm was gone, and it would not return.

[page 287]
text=?We will hear Sky-Ree's calls upon the winds. We will hear your hammer thunder across the mountaintops. Ride hard into the hereafter, brother. The halls of our ancestors await you.?
text=Kurdran Wildhammer
text=
text=Renowned Dragon Fighter. Gryphon Master of the Aerie Peak. Commander of the Gryphon Rider Division attached to the Alliance Expedition that marched into the orc homeworld of Draenor. Presumed deceased.
text=
text=We will hear Sky-Ree's calls upon the winds. We will hear your hammer thunder across the mountaintops. Ride hard into the hereafter, brother. The halls of our ancestors await you.
text=
text=- Falstad Wildhammer - Lord of Aerie Peak

[page 288]
text=?Your heart flew straight as any arrow upon the wind, sister. You were the brightest of our Order. You were the most beloved of our kin.?
text=Ranger Captain Alleria Windrunner
text=
text=Renowned Troll Hunter of Quel'Thalas. Lead Scout and Intelligence Agent for the Alliance Expedition that marched into the orc homeworld of Draenor. Presumed deceased.
text=
text=Your heart flew straight as any arrow upon the wind, sister. You were the brightest of our Order. You were the most beloved of our kin.
text=
text=- Sylvanas Windrunner - Ranger General of Quel'Thalas

[page 289]
text=?Never did one so selflessly delve into the dark heart of magic and warfare. We wish you well, bold wanderer. Wherever you are.?
text=Archmage Khadgar of the Kirin Tor
text=
text=Former apprentice of Medivh. Supreme Commander of the Alliance Expedition that marched into the orc homeworld of Draenor. Presumed deceased.
text=
text=Never did one so selflessly delve into the dark heart of magic and warfare. We wish you well, bold wanderer. Wherever you are.
text=				
text=- Antonidas - Archmage of Dalaran

[page 290]
text=?Esarus thar no'Darador' - By Blood and Honor We Serve.
text=General Turalyon
text=
text=Former Lieutenant to Lord Anduin Lothar. Knight of the Silver Hand. High General of the Alliance Expedition that marched into the orc homeworld of Draenor. Presumed deceased.
text=
text=Esarus thar no'Darador' - By Blood and Honor We Serve.
text=You were the right hand of justice and virtue, old friend. Your name will be honored in our halls always.
text=
text=- Lord Uther the Lightbringer - Knight of the Silver Hand

[page 292]
text=Here lies Uther the Lightbringer
text=First Paladin - Founder of the Order of the Silver Hand
text=
text=Uther lived and died to defend the kingdom of Lordaeron. Though he was betrayed by his most beloved student, we believe that his spirit lives on. He continues to watch over us, even as the shadows close in around our ruined land. His light is the light of all humanity - and so long as we honor his example, it shall never fade.
text=									- Anonymous

[page 310]
text=I can see the ocean water not far from me, but it does nothing to cool my body or my temper. It only reminds me of my imprisonment.

[page 315]
text=The Council was wise to appoint you head of the Argus Wake, marshal of their strategies in the land of humans and dwarves.  And I am honored to serve as the hand of your will in Alterac.
text=In Sargeras' Name,
text=	
text=Nagaz,
text=Argus Heirophant

[page 316]
text=Bumbling fools!
text=
text=My plans called for both bridges to be destroyed simultaneously.  And what do you simple-minded thugs do?  You only get half the job done and alert the entire Alliance as to our intentions.  Fools I say!
text=
text=You have one chance to make amends for your actions.  We have a backup cache of explosives in Arathi Highlands, not far from the bridge.
text=
text=Finish the job if you value your measly lives!
text=
text=--Kam Deepfury

[page 336]
text=To the Schneiders,
text=
text=Good day.  I trust business in the canal district is good.  We are booming here in the trader's square.
text=
text=We are in need of knitted cloth goods, as our supply is all but depleted.  Please send the standard load as soon as you are able.
text=
text=Good fortune, and I hope your son Thurman's studies progress well,
text=
text=--Harlan Bagley

[page 337]
next_page=338
text=Official Orders For The Kul Tiras Fleet
text=
text=I, Admiral Proudmoore, shall lead the first landing upon the shores of Kalimdor.
text=
text=Lieutenant Benedict will be second in command in my absence. All domestic Kul Tiras military matters will be handled by him. If I do not send word from Tiragarde Keep within 12 months time, Lieutenant Benedict will lead the second wave to hold the location.

[page 338]
text=Meanwhile, I am sending Lieutenant Alverold on an exploratory mission around the continent of Kalimdor. His forces are to complete their mission and then join our forces at Tiragarde Keep.
text=
text=It is anticipated that Lieutenant Alverold's mission will last quite some time. The new land seems vast and dangerous. But should any misfortune befall myself or Benedict, Alverold's troops will retake the Keep.
text=
text=We will send wave after wave until that stronghold is ours!
text=
text=--Admiral Proudmoore

[page 340]
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1>Horde Conscription Registration</H1>
text=<BR></BR>
text=<P>This person has demonstrated incredible feats of strength and skill in the name of the Horde. They should immediately be assigned to work in the Crossroads.</P>
text=<BR></BR>
text=<BR></BR>
text=<P>Respectfully yours:</P>
text=<BR></BR>
text=<BR></BR>
text=<BR></BR>
text=<BR></BR>
text=<P>Looks good to me.<BR></BR>
text=- Takrin Pathseeker</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 342]
next_page=343
text=The Excavation of Bael Modan
text=
text=The original survey crew sent by the Explorers' League was indeed correct in their findings. The ground here holds artifacts of unlimited value to our people. No doubt we will find many answers in our quest for knowledge beneath the sand and rock of Bael Modan.
text=
text=The geology of the region dictates we use extreme measures however. Many of the sand deposits have solidified under the harsh conditions and varying climate.

[page 343]
next_page=344
text=The solution is quite simple however. Using wood pulp as an absorbent, we can combine traces of nitroglycerin with sodium nitrate to develop a strong blasting charge, capable of breaking through even the most dense masses.
text=
text=The work will be noisy and disruptive but our search is of far greater importance than the comfort of the local inhabitants. In fact, we've already had to drive a band of bull-men out of the area who were proving to be a nuisance.

[page 344]
text=The fact that we are dealing with various rogue elements out here leads me to believe we will need support from the King's Army. Not only will the excavation require military support, it would seem to my novice eye that the location of Bael Modan might be of strategic value to the Alliance considering the volatility of world politics in their current state.
text=
text=Alas, I have digressed. There is much work to be done beneath the rock. I have spent too much time writing and not enough digging...

[page 350]
next_page=355
text=The samophlange control console can be used to autmoatically regulate the flow of fuels, gasses, liquids, and related machinery. Once initial configuration has been completed, it should run worry free with minor maintenance.
text=
text=Brief listing of control console components (from left to right)
text=
text=I. Main Power Lever
text=
text=The engaged position enables the samophlange. The control mechanism will not automatically disengage when the lever is put in the off position. This will merely

[page 352]
next_page=353
text=Supervisor Fizsprocket, please find enclosed a list of the equipment you have requisitioned, approved by President Razdunk.
text=
text=He has asked me to remind and to emphasize to you of the Venture Company's vested interest in setting up operations throughout Kalimdor. Our drilling and mining outposts in the Barrens have proven profitable and efficient, but we still await sufficient production numbers from Mulgore, your jurisdiction.
text=
text=The advisory board understands the difficulties in establishing

[page 353]
next_page=354
text=a large scale operation so close to the tauren homeland, but do not feel that they pose a large impediment to our overall business plan in the area.
text=
text=We are pleased to hear that mining has begun in the mineral rich plains of Mulgore. Because of this the board has approved your equipment request. In addition to mining, we feel that Mulgore also has much to offer in the way of lumber, thus you will also be provided with several of our newest model shredders and raw materials to construct a

[page 354]
text=mill.

[page 355]
next_page=356
text=begin the cooldown process, at which point it will take roughly one to two minutes (depending on the situation) to turn off.
text=
text=IMPORTANT NOTE: The main power lever can only be manipulated when the three control valves on the actual machinery have been disengaged. These valves can be shut off in any order.
text=
text=The first is the MAIN CONTROL VALVE, which can be found at the base of the large, vertical smokestack. Next, the FUEL CONTROL VALVE can be found on the large pipe which leads

[page 356]
next_page=357
text=from the fuel tanks (there should be three of them) to the smokestack. Finally, the REGULATOR VALVE can be found on the lower of the two large, cylindrical tanks that flow into the smokestack.
text=
text=II. Fuel Gauges
text=
text=Displays the current pressure in the primary, secondary, and tertiary fuel tanks.
text=
text=III. Flow Gauge
text=
text=Displays the current rate of flow within the system.
text=

[page 357]
text=IV. Flow Controls
text=
text=Increase or decrease the flow rates. This is automatically controlled by the samophlange control mechanism.
text=
text=V. Temperature Gauge
text=
text=Displays the operating temperature of the system in general.

[page 358]
next_page=364
text=Long had the children of the stars dwelled upon the banks of the shimmering waters of the Eternal Well. To all was known that Elune, light of the eternal twilight, aspect and goddess of the moon, dwelt within its waters at such time that she rested from her works. Upon the shores of the Well did the children of the stars, favored of Elune, build their homes, even as their gaze was trained ever skyward, into the moonlit night.
text=
text=Though there were many towns and places of habitation constructed

[page 359]
next_page=366
text=The earth trembled as the ancient trees in the enchanted forest were uprooted and toppled. The groves and glades tended by the sons and daughters of Cenarius and the stone towers of the children of the stars were brought to the rolling ground. There was our queen, radiant even in the desperation, in the chaos that was the battles. The enchanted sky changed colors with the discharge of magic, with the explosions that threatened to tear the world asunder.
text=
text=Brother fought brother. Chosen fought

[page 361]
next_page=437
text=Master Delgren,
text=
text=It is as you feared. Your theory about the Tower of Althalaxx has proven true. A cult has gathered at the tower with many warlocks amongst their number, including even a foul satyr. They call themselves the Cult of the Dark Strand. I cannot imagine what vile purpose brings them together, but it worries me.
text=
text=Please forgive the terseness in which I have composed this missive, but danger lurks in the forest around me, and I can spare few words to describing the situation. I

[page 364]
next_page=365
text=upon the lakeshore, Ameth'Aran and Bashal'Aran were the foremost, having the touch of Azshara, the Kaldorei's beloved queen, in their creation. Her favored servitors, those of the Highborne, she brought to the twin towns to reside, and to govern them she placed Athrikus Narassin, though it would be that he would spend most of his days in his Tower of Althalaxx, some ways removed of the towns.
text=
text=His second, a mage known of his prowess in the arcane arts as much as with his physical abilities,

[page 365]
text=was Asterion, who lived among the people of Bashal'Aran, and went many times to Ameth'Aran, to see to the needs and wants of its people.
text=
text=And so it was, upon the shores of the Well of Eternity, the twin towns grew and prospered, while the world beneath the stars fell slowly to madness.

[page 366]
next_page=367
text=blessed. It was not all the Highborne that fought. Some stood, transfixed, as the madness took them. Mighty cities and humble towns alike were felled around them.
text=
text=In Ameth'Aran, all was in ruins, its people clinging to the ground as though that might spare them from the destruction. It was then that Athrikus Narassin, favored of Azshara appeared to guide them to safety.
text=
text=With a spell he could protect them, he would say. While around them, brother and sister, father and mother perished,

[page 367]
text=they would have life eternal, and have naught to fear from the Sundering that was to come...

[page 376]
next_page=377
text=The Star of Xil'yeh
text=
text=An ogre in Alterac, Grel'borg the Miser, was the last known owner of this gem, whispered to empower its owner with the ability to commune with other worlds.  Sources tell us Grelborg wanders the Ruins of Alterac in the Alterac Mountains, searching the rubble and debris for more relics.

[page 377]
next_page=378
text=The Hand of Dagun
text=
text=Dagun is a creature of the deep waters, worshipped by Murlocs in Dustwallow Marsh.  They entice him to the surface with a special sea kelp, enchanted by their shamans.  Hunt the Murlocs, gather their enchanted kelp, then place it on the Murloc's alter.  Dagun will come, and you will be waiting.
text=
text=I want that hand.

[page 378]
next_page=379
text=The Legacy Heart
text=
text=Old texts say that he who posseses the Legacy Heart fears not the grave.  Perhaps this is true, for the owner of the heart, the troll Mogh, is known as Mogh the Undying.  A witchdoctor of the Skullsplitter tribe, Mogh dwells in Stranglethorn in the Ruins of Zul'Mamwe.

[page 379]
text=Bring me these items, the Star, the Hand and the Heart, and I will give you a copy of the Yagyin Digest.
text=
text=-The Keeper

[page 387]
text=And so he wandered, and he searched.  And his arm remained lost to him.  And so he cursed and roared as he walked.
text=
text=But Gri'lek had long ago turned his ear away from the spirits, and they were angered and would not listen to his curses.
text=
text=Doomed was Gri'lek.  Doomed to wander, armless.

[page 394]
text=An evil force created these,
text=He sits on Dreadmist Peak at ease,
text=He laughs at thee and thy friend,
text=His elementals have no end,
text=
text=Soon you must confront this mage,
text=For only death will end his rage.

[page 395]
text=The Shrine of Mel'Thandris
text=
text="May the light of Elune shine upon this vale eternal and illuminate the ways of the forest as it has for time immemorial."

[page 403]
next_page=404
text=I started this journal so I could keep notes on my quest to help Ashenvale. There is a mystery to some of the events that occurred not too long ago, and hopefully I will be able to unravel some of it in order to help my people.
text=
text=Let me start by putting down facts so they don't slip my mind at a later date.
text=
text=I've recently found truth to the rumors of the wizard Dartol's efforts.

[page 404]
next_page=405
text=Where once I thought it preposterous that a human would come to our lands and learn our ways, this wizard, this evil man, came here and not only survived, but also gained some of our knowledge. I'm still uncertain how...
text=
text=I never discovered his goals during my investigation, but his plan seemed simple: using druidic magic, he wanted to befriend and then control the furbolg. If it was in an attempt to harm my kin, or for some other malicious purpose, I hope to find out before my path ends.

[page 405]
next_page=406
text=Regardless, he was apparently more successful than naught in actualizing his plans. Did he want to attempt his machinations on the furbolg before trying on my people? Did the furbolg have something he coveted? Who knows?
text=
text=Using an item he created (a rod or staff of some kind), he attempted to infiltrate the furbolg tribes of Ashenvale. At some point, and this is where many of the details are still unclear, he was discovered by the furbolg while trying to manipulate them into acting against

[page 406]
next_page=407
text=one another. As I'm sure the elves would be, the furbolg were angered, but they reacted much more strongly and killed Dartol.
text=
text=The furbolg, at least at this time, weren't the same corrupted creatures they've become. They were still rational and intelligent--their relationship with our people amicable.
text=
text=I'm hoping that if I can recreate the rod with the help of a dryad named Shael'dryn, I can use its power to help our people... and the furbolg.

[page 407]
next_page=408
text=Not all the furbolg have been corrupted. Some still live and try to protect the forest. During their corruption, some of the furbolg fled, many were killed, and others were forced out of their tribes.
text=
text=I found a venerable furbolg of the Foulweald tribe living above Lake Mystral--his name is Krolg.
text=
text=I've watched him for days, and I think if I were to approach him in the guise of a furbolg, I could help him and discover a way to re-establish a bond between our people.

[page 408]
next_page=409
text=Along with killing Dartol, the furbolg split up the rod into three parts so it couldn't be used against them again. It has been difficult, but I've a good idea where all three parts were placed.
text=
text=The Gem
text=The first part of the rod, a glowing gem, was hidden in a shrine in Northwestern Ashenvale. I believe now this shrine is the ruins at the center of Lake Falathim. The Sentinels tell me that it's been inhabited by murlocs now.

[page 409]
next_page=411
text=If I can't find the gem hidden in the shrine, it might be in the possession of one of the murlocs.
text=
text=The shaft portion
text=This part of the rod was given to the treants near what is now called Felwood. Neither the furbolg nor my kind could have suspected that such magnificent creatures could ever fall to the corruption that's overtaken the land.
text=
text=My research tells me that the guardians kept the piece in a small glade locked within a chest. To find out any more, I'll have to speak to Shael'dryn.

[page 411]
next_page=412
text=Shael'dryn is a dryad who protects the moonwell northeast of Lake Iris. She refuses to leave the forest or forsake it to the corruption. I know she has the power and knowledge to repair the rod, or to at least tell me how I can do it on my own.
text=
text=The pommel
text=The pommel of the rod was given to the druids of Dor'danil. There is one major problem with this though: the druids are dead.
text=
text=Their spirits now inhabit the area and are no longer hospitable.

[page 412]
next_page=413
text=This may require more investigation. I'm not sure I'm powerful enough to fight the spirits of my dead kin...let alone delve into the depths of Dor'danil and find the pommel.
text=
text=(Note: During my preparations in Astranaar, I've recently met a dwarf hunter who has spent a good portion of his time in Ashenvale trying to help my people. He came from a place called Stormwind.
text=
text=We spoke over a few ales one night, and his tales have given me new hope of finding the pommel...

[page 413]
next_page=414
text=He tells me he's been throughout all of Dor'danil, and he's never seen a chest or any container that may hold the pommel.
text=
text=He also tells me that rotting slimes have inhabited the area, and they devour almost anything smaller than them. He's seen them "eat" tables, sculptures, bears, and even gnomes!
text=
text=The slimes seem to gain a great deal of sustenance from things magical. If the chest holding the pommel was enchanted at all, the slimes might have eaten it.

[page 414]
text=It's a gamble, but I have no other clues at this time...
text=
text=As I find out more I'll put the details here

[page 415]
text=Jin'Zil,
text=   It has been a while, but I thought you would like to know that the last of the Bloodfeather's have been slain. Don't thank me though, the person delivering the letter is the slayer. If you'd like, I can have her head delivered to you after the caravan makes its rounds through the Barrens. I know you like that sort of stuff for your voodoo magics.
text=   Take care old friend.
text=
text=-Darsok Swiftdagger

[page 417]
next_page=418
text=Okay, you should have your NG-5 charges and detonators ready. I've labled them for you... Blue is for the lumber mill. Red is for Windshear Mine.
text=
text=I did some scouting, and there are enough explosives throughout Windshear Crag that it shouldn't be a problem at all for you to get in, plant the explosives, and then get out before detonating them.
text=
text=Remember, this is a distraction. Get far from the wagons before the goblins get there to check out what happened, then sneak in behind them.

[page 418]
next_page=419
text=Be careful with them by the way. The Nitromirglyceronium alone could reduce you to dust. I've encased some of the liquid in copper tubes which should keep it stable and safe.
text=
text=The scroll you got from Collin I used on the detonator boxes. They will now send a silent message to the NG-5 charges after you've set them. I used a simple Stalthwargon mechanism to make sure the wire conductivity is optimal and the flow of the Nitroglyceronium between the differential fluid is better than average.

[page 419]
next_page=420
text=Before I get back into the details about my design, let me explain where you should place the explosives.
text=
text=Plan Alpha- the lumber mill:
text=There's a wagon out in front of the lumber mill (this is northeast of their deforestation and lumber collection construct). I suspect the engineering plans are inside of the lumber mill.
text=
text=To plant the charge, head to the back of the wagon. Once it's set, make haste and get some distance.

[page 420]
next_page=421
text=When you're ready, hit the detonator.
text=
text=I've ensured a strong signal by routing copper and silver wires with a Melthusian antenae array within the casing of the box. That should give you good range. Just be careful of the goblins nearby. They won't appreciate my creation if they catch you in their site.
text=
text=Oh, just in case it wasn't obvious, don't be near the wagon when it blows... it'll hurt.

[page 421]
next_page=422
text=Plan Beta- Windshear Mine:
text=
text=I saw the goblins using another wagon of explosives north of the mine's entrance. I think that should be a good enough place to plant NG-5 Charge (Red). After you set the charge in the back of the wagon, get some distance and hit the button.
text=
text=If the goblins don't come running to check out the commotion, it's probably because the mountain came down on top of their heads.

[page 422]
text=The Venture Co. Letters are outside the mine... I think on some crates on the bottom level.
text=
text=Good luck, and remember...
text=
text=Blue Charge: lumber mill
text=Red Charge: mine
text=
text=Oh, and destroy this letter after you've accomplished your mission. Hmm, maybe I should look into a way to make these things destroy themselves after they're read. That's not a bad idea...

[page 424]
next_page=425
text=--Day One--
text=Prospector Khazgorm of Bael Modan is making great headway. He uncovered a fossil today which the site scholars believe to be a bone fragment of an ancient god. Khazgorm is certain the fossil is part of a greater mystery. While he oversees the excavation site, he has made it my quest to discover more fossils to piece together the story.
text=My assignment: head to the south in search of more clues.

[page 425]
next_page=426
text=--Day Two--
text=The only incident of note took place near the gold road. Off in the distance I noticed some strange creatures. Half pig, half man it seemed. I quickly hid and let the foul beasts pass. My what a foul stench they left behind!

[page 426]
next_page=427
text=--Day Three--
text=Oh great and splendid discovery!
text=Whilst exploring today I came across a grand find: massive remains of what seems to have been a boar-like creature. Its skull towered many lengths above me. Each tooth of the beast could dwarf even... well a dwarf. Due to the sheer size of the find, I am lead to believe these are the remains of one of the rumored Old Gods.

[page 427]
next_page=428
text=A while back, at the Explorers' League headquarters in Ironforge, I remember a lecture given by Chief Archeologist Greywhisker. The old chap made mention of such a god, one which was revered by the strange elves of Darnassus because of his rumored altruistic nature--
text=Bah! One moment. I hear snorting outside the tent. Surely just some thistle boars trying to get at my apple stash....

[page 428]
next_page=429
text=--Day 4--
text=Captured!
text=Must... write... quickly.
text=Attacked by boar men of the Razorfen tribe. Believed they were taking me to the great boar remains of the fallen god. Instead, they skirted the great fossils and headed directly west of the giant skull, across the Gold Road.

[page 429]
next_page=430
text=Roughly dragged inside of a foul-smelling, thorn infested bramble called Razorfen Kraul. Thrown inside a crudely crafted hut and held captive along with a dying night elf.
text=No possessions on me save for this journal, my quill and my pocket watch...
text=Someone coming now...

[page 430]
next_page=431
text=--Day 5--
text=My night elf cell mate suffers from grave wounds. The boar men have whipped him repeatedly and I believe he will perish before long unless by some miracle a rescue party braves this treacherous place. He slips in and out of consciousness. When he awakes, I try to give him what little water I have.

[page 431]
next_page=432
text=Last night he was able to speak for the first time. He is a druid, called Heralath, sent to these parts to examine the rumors of the fallen boar god.
text=In a weakened voice he told me that he believed the great boar skull to be the place where the great boar god Agamaggan fell battling the Burning Legion some 10,000 years ago during the War of the Ancients. His massive body flattened the land and his blood sank into the earth. Twisted spires of thorns grow where his blood fell...

[page 432]
next_page=433
text=Heralath and his people seek to discover the source of corruption at this site. Agamaggan was believed to be a pure god, he told me. Why these foul creatures and malignant thorns scar the land is a mystery indeed.
text=Before I could press for more information, Heralath slipped into fitful sleep once again...

[page 433]
next_page=434
text=--Day 6--
text=Heralath's condition worsens.
text=His eyes opened only once today. He spoke with pained anguish but his message was clear. If I were to escape my doom here in Razorfen Kraul, word must be gotten to Falfindel Waywarder in Thalanaar that Charlga Razorflank was rousing minions in the southern Barrens. The power grows with each day. The Crone must be stopped before the plague of corruption can spread from the Kraul.

[page 434]
next_page=435
text=Poor Heralath looks pale as bone. His fever grows worse by the minute. All the while the boar men are preparing for some great military action. I fear that if I do not attempt my escape soon, I will meet a fate similar to my elven cell mate.
text=My plan is to sneak out when the boar men leave for their next hunt. My guards are lazy and often sleep through their shifts.

[page 435]
text=Once free from the Kraul, I will head towards Thousand Needles and then west to Thalanaar on the border of the mysterious forest of Feralas. There I will seek the druid known as Falfindel Waywarder.
text=What began as an attempt to explore the past of my people has turned into something much larger. The protection of the Alliance lies in my hands....

[page 436]
text=ORDER NUMBER: 45TK-3
text=BUYER: Kravel Koalbeard
text=
text=INVOICE:
text=
text=Hydro Ratchet (3)
text=Repeater Bolts (50)
text=30" 20-guage copper tubing (12)
text=Snuff, Deepfury brand (1)
text=High-grade prism (3)

[page 437]
text=would deliver this message to you myself, but I fear to leave, lest I miss some event of great import.
text=
text=Should you wish to know more of my observations on the Tower of Althalaxx, the bearer of this message has provided no small amount of assistance to me, and I believe $g he : she
text=
text=In haste,
text=Balthule Shadowstrike

[page 438]
text=The goblin Nazz Steamboil is really the son of a goblin merchant prince (Which prince?  The price of that information is high).
text=
text=It seems he much rather enjoys spending the money his family makes than he does earning it himself.  So he stole a small fortune from his family's hoard and is now hiding in the Shimmering Flats.
text=
text=If his father knew where he was, he'd be sure to seek him out and drag him back home... minus a toe for his insolence.

[page 441]
next_page=751
text=Good Martek,
text=I'm in a jam and I need your help.
text=My brother and I are building a racecar and we need strong pistons.  Nothing I try is hard enough.  Nothing can hold up to our new car's speed.  And so the engine breaks down constantly!
text=You are an expert in crafting with metal.  You must help.  You are the only one who can.

[page 442]
text=To face Frostmaw, you must entice him with the meat of his favorite prey.
text=
text=Go to the Alterac Mountains in Azeroth and hunt a hulking mountain lion.  Kill it, and then take its carcass to the Cave of Uzel, a place held sacred by the bestial wendigo.
text=
text=Place the carcass on the Flame of Uzel and the scent from burning meat will drift from the cave.
text=
text=And then, in time, Frostmaw will come.
text=

[page 443]
next_page=444
text=It never ceases to amaze me how easily hatred can be used to bend people to your will. The orcs and trolls were easiest, their hatred of the Alliance making them willing subjects to hear the message of the Dark Strand. Do they have any inkling of the greater power they serve?
text=
text=That infuriating paladin, Delgren the Purifier, has been poking into our affairs in Ashenvale Forest, while his lackey, Balthule, spies on my tower, thinking his presence unknown to me. Delgren believes us a minor

[page 444]
text=threat, just another death cult, perhaps. Little does he know that we are but one of the... strands of the Shadow Council.
text=
text=As a child, I was once told of an insect whose bite could kill with ease, though it looked nothing more than a fly, a speck barely worthy of recognition. It is the things you dismiss which will hurt you the most, left to fester.

[page 447]
next_page=450
text=I have done a great deal of research about the Aspects and their titan creators--as much as any human could in a lifetime. There were five Aspects when the titans left this world
text=
text=
text=

[page 448]
next_page=449
text=Apothecary Lydon,
text=
text=I hope this letter reaches you swiftly and its bearer in good condition.  A need has arisen in distant Kalimdor that I believe will require your skills.
text=
text=I will be brief.
text=
text=A crisis develops in the Stonetalon Mountains, not far from our Tauren allies' homeland of Mulgore.  The goblin-run Venture company is mining and lumbering fiercely in those moutains, enraging the mountain spirits.

[page 449]
text=I must assume the commotion these spirits cause through channels under the auspice of Tauren shamans and druids distracts them.  For the Tauren consider the Venture Company in the Stonetalon Mountains a dire threat.
text=
text=Threat or not, we must aid our allies.
text=
text=Lydon, you have a broad knowledge of toxins.  Can you devise one that we might use to spread a contagion among the goblins in Stonetalon?
text=
text=Scholarly yours,
text=P. Zamah

[page 450]
next_page=451
text=Much of the knowledge I have now I could not have possibly learned on my own. Because of this, I am extremely grateful to the night elves. It was only with their help that I have as many details as I do. As a result of our interactions, I am under the impression that their beginnings are much more closely tied to the Aspects than I had first thought. However, they guard their secrets far too closely for even me to know for certain.

[page 451]
next_page=452
text=The information I learned of the Aspects I put here for others to reference in the future. I know it will prove useful, as I feel that these dragons will have a much greater effect on our world as time goes on.
text=

[page 452]
next_page=453
text=Alexstrasza:
text=Alexstrasza, the ancient and powerful Queen of the Dragons, was named the Life-Binder by the titans. She was first to be created by the titans to protect the world after they left. It is said that she witnessed the birth of all modern races upon the face of Azeroth. Her red dragonflight, known for their proud demeanor, once ruled over all other dragonkind.

[page 453]
next_page=454
text=Rumors among the night elves suggest Alexstrasza and the demigod Cenarius were close friends, and that it was he that called her during the first invasion of the Burning Legion.

[page 454]
next_page=455
text=Ysera:
text=Ysera the Dreamer represents mortal subconscious. She encompasses the Emerald Dreaming..  While she appreciates imagination and creation and approves of ambition in the mortal races, her and her dragonflight consider the real world to be just an illusion. Ysera is one of the most graceful and powerful creatures any mortal could lay eyes on.

[page 455]
next_page=456
text=Malygos:
text=Malygos is known as the Steward of Magic or the Spell-Weaver. His natural form is not that of a typical dragon, and it is said he can change it at will. Rarely seen after his retreat to the far north, he is almost always in the form of an insect-like creature, but while in dragon form, he and his dragonflight are varying blues in color.

[page 456]
next_page=457
text=Nozdormu:
text=Nozdormu is known as the Master of Time and the Timeless. He and his dragonflight are bronze in color and display great cunning in all things. Nozdormu's attention has always been focused on collecting artifacts of the past, as he cares little for the current matters of the mortal races, or even his fellow Aspects' dealings. His indifference towards the politics of others does not mean he is complacent towards events that transpire throughout the world though.

[page 457]
next_page=458
text=Considered to be protectors, the bronze dragonflight find themselves greatly attracted to areas of civilization. The dragon and his flight are very patient by nature, always relying on observation and acting with a plan before being hasty. Nozdormu will always attempt to protect the time stream and the mortal races when threatened by greater enemies.

[page 458]
next_page=459
text=Neltharion:
text=Neltharion, called the Earth-Warder upon his creation, was more loyal and protective of Azeroth than any of the other Aspects. His black dragonflight were responsible for the creation of the mountains and the other formations of the lands including boundaries between the mortal races. What caused his corruption still remains a mystery

[page 459]
text=The black dragon underwent a complete transformation

[page 467]
next_page=771
text=CONGRATULATIONS!
text=
text=You are the proud new owner of the amazing snufflenose gopher!  Although a shy creature, we are positive you'll find your new pet's fuzzy cuteness and incredible olfactory capabilities endearing.
text=
text=In the following pages, you'll find information on your gopher's:
text=
text=1. Feeding and care
text=2. Eccentric (and adorable) behavior
text=3. Use of the patented Snufflenose Command Stick(tm)
text=
text=Again, congratulations.  You won't be disappounted,
text=
text=-Marwig Rustbolt
text=Owner, Snuff Inc.
text=
text=

[page 507]
next_page=548
text=--Day 13
text=Troop movement near Theramore has increased.  Large numbers of humans left the city and move west, in haste.
text=
text=--Day 14
text=More troops leaving the city.  I followed a small group and watched them remove their uniforms after leaving bowshot of Theramore.  Perhaps they are deserters?
text=
text=--Day 15
text=I overheard some Theramore troops talk today of guards leaving their posts.  My suspicions of the deserters must be true
text=

[page 548]
next_page=579
text=--Day 16
text=Uleg and Thargil returned from their mission to the Theramore docks.  They saw a new ship in port: the Bleeding Sparrow.  The ship arrived from Menethil Harbor in Azeroth.
text=
text=Tomorrow Uleg and Thargil will return to the docks and steal aboard the ship.  They hope to find political documents, ones that reveal the relations between Theramore and the Alliance.

[page 572]
next_page=573
text=With Kel'Thuzad's success in Lordaeron, the Lich King made the final preparations for his assault against human civilization. Placing his plague energies into a number of portable artifacts called plague cauldrons, Ner'zhul ordered Kel'Thuzad to transport the cauldrons to Lordaeron where they would be hidden within various cult-controlled villages.

[page 573]
next_page=574
text=The cauldrons, protected by the loyal cultists, would then act as plague generators, sending the plague seeping out across the unsuspecting farmlands and cities of northern Lordaeron.
text=
text=The Lich King's plan worked perfectly. Many of Lordaeron's northern villages were contaminated almost immediately. Just as in Northrend, the citizens who contracted the plague died and arose as the Lich King's willing slaves.

[page 574]
text=The cultists under Kel'Thuzad were eager to die and be raised again in their dark lord's service. They exulted in the prospect of immortality through undeath. As the plague spread, more and more feral zombies arose in the northlands. Kel'Thuzad looked upon the Lich King's growing army and named it the Scourge - for soon, it would march upon the gates of Lordaeron...and scour humanity from the face of the world.

[page 575]
next_page=576
text=No one knows exactly how the universe began. Some theorize that a catastrophic cosmic explosion sent the infinite worlds spinning out into the vastness of the Great Dark - worlds that would one day bear life-forms of wondrous and terrible diversity. Others believe that the universe, as it exists, was created as a whole by a singular, all-powerful entity.

[page 576]
next_page=577
text=Though the exact origins of the chaotic universe remain unclear, it is clear that a race of powerful beings arose to bring order to the various worlds and ensure a safe future for the beings that would follow in their footsteps.
text=The Titans, colossal, metallic-skinned gods from the far reaches of the cosmos, came forward and set to work on the worlds they encountered. They shaped the form of their worlds by raising mighty mountains and dredging out vast seas.

[page 577]
next_page=578
text=They breathed skies and raging atmospheres into being - all part of their unfathomable, far-sighted plan to create order out of chaos. They even empowered primitive races to tend to their works and maintain the integrity of their respective worlds.
text=The Titans, ruled by an elite sect known as the Pantheon, brought order to a hundred million worlds scattered throughout the Great Dark Beyond during the first ages of creation.

[page 578]
text=The benevolent Pantheon, seeking to safeguard their structured worlds, was ever vigilant against the threat of attack from the vile, extra-dimensional entities of the Twisting Nether. The Nether, an ethereal dimension of chaotic magics that connected the myriad worlds of the universe together, was home to an infinite number of malefic, demonic beings, who sought only to destroy life and devour the energies of the living universe.

[page 579]
text=--Day 17
text=Uleg returned from his mission.  He failed, and Thargil was captured.  I sent Uleg to deliver this report to Nazeer.
text=
text=I will remain here.  I have witnessed increased shipping activity off the coast of Theramore.  I will continue my watch and personally report any noteworthy events.

[page 607]
next_page=649
text=Master Longbeard,
text=
text=As you know, we Stormpikes have an eye for excellence, and so the quality of your shields is no mystery to us.
text=
text=I, therefore, am keen to commission you for such a shield.  I have included specifications on the following page:
text=
text=
text=

[page 627]
next_page=628
text=The devastating Second War against the orcish horde left the Alliance of Lordaeron in a state of shock and disarray. The bloodthirsty orcs, led by the mighty warchief, Orgrim Doomhammer, not only smashed their way through the dwarf-held lands of Khaz Modan, but had razed many of Lordaeron's central provinces as well. The unrelenting orcs even succeeded in ravaging the
text=elves' remote kingdom of Quel'Thalas before their rampage was finally stopped.

[page 628]
next_page=629
text=The Alliance armies led by Sir Anduin Lothar, Uther the Lightbringer, and Admiral Daelin Proudmoore pushed the orcs south into the shattered land of Azeroth - the first kingdom to fall before the orcs' ruthless onslaught.
text=
text=The Alliance forces under Sir Lothar managed to push Doomhammer's clans out of Lordaeron and back into the orc-controlled lands of Azeroth. Lothar's forces surrounded the orcs' volcanic citadel of Blackrock Spire and laid siege to their defenses.

[page 629]
next_page=630
text=In a last-ditch effort, Doomhammer and his lieutenants staged a daring charge from the Spire and clashed with Lothar's paladins in the center of the Burning Steppes. Doomhammer and Lothar squared off in a titanic battle that left both mighty combatants battered and drained. Though Doomhammer narrowly succeeded in vanquishing Lothar, the great hero's death did not have the effect the warchief had hoped for.

[page 630]
next_page=631
text=Turalyon, Lothar's most trusted lieutenant, took up Lothar's bloodstained shield and rallied his grief-stricken brethren for a vicious counterattack. Under the ragged standards of both Lordaeron and Azeroth, Turalyon's troops slaughtered the bulk of Doomhammer's remaining forces in a glorious, but terrible rout.

[page 631]
next_page=632
text=There was nothing left for the ragged, scattered orc survivors but to flee to the last standing bastion of orcish power - the dark portal.
text=
text=Turalyon and his warriors chased the remaining orcs through the festering Swamp of Sorrows and into the corrupted Blasted Lands where the dark portal stood. There, at the foot of the colossal portal, the broken horde and the rugged Alliance clashed in what would be the last, bloodiest battle of the Second War.

[page 632]
text=Outnumbered and driven mad by the curse of their bloodlust, the orcs inevitably fell before the wrath of the Alliance. Doomhammer was taken prisoner and escorted to Lordaeron while his broken clans were rounded up and hauled north - back to Lordaeron.

[page 633]
next_page=634
text=Only a few months after Nethergarde's completion, the energies of the dark portal coalesced and opened up a new gateway to Draenor. The remaining orc clans, under the leadership of the elder shaman, Ner'zhul, charged forth into Azeroth once again. Intent on stealing a number of magical artifacts that would increase Ner'zhul's power, the orcs planned to open up new portals in Draenor that would allow them to escape their doomed red world forever.

[page 634]
next_page=635
text=Convinced that Ner'zhul was planning a new offensive against the Alliance, King Terenas of Lordaeron sent his armies into Draenor to end the orcish threat once and for all. Led by Khadgar and General Turalyon, the Alliance forces clashed with the orcs across the burning
text=landscape. Even with the aid of the elven Ranger Alleria, the dwarf Kurdran and the veteran soldier Danath, Khadgar was unable to prevent Ner'zhul from opening his portals to other worlds.

[page 635]
next_page=636
text=The tremendous magical storms caused by the portals' converging energies began to tear the ravaged world apart. Ner'zhul, followed only by his most trusted servants, managed to escape through one of the portals as Khadgar fought desperately to return his comrades to Azeroth. Realizing that they would be trapped on the dying world, Khadgar and his companions selflessly decided to destroy the dark portal so that Azeroth would not be harmed by Draenor's violent destruction.

[page 636]
text=By all accounts, the heroes were successful in destroying the portal and saving Azeroth - but whether or not they escaped the death throes of Draenor remains to be seen.

[page 637]
next_page=638
text=Ten thousand years before the orcs and humans clashed in their First War, the world of Azeroth cradled only one massive continent surrounded by the infinite, raging seas. That land mass, known as Kalimdor, was home to a number of disparate races and creatures, all vying for survival amongst the savage elements of the waking world. At the dark continent's center was a mysterious lake of incandescent energies.

[page 638]
next_page=639
text=The lake, which would later be called the Well of Eternity, was the true heart of the world's magic and natural power. Drawing its energies from the infinite Great Dark beyond the world, the Well acted as a mystical fount, sending its potent energies out across the world to nourish life in all its wondrous forms.
text=
text=In time, a primitive tribe of nocturnal humanoids cautiously made their way to the edges of the mesmerizing, enchanted lake.

[page 639]
next_page=640
text=The feral, nomadic humanoids, drawn by the Well's strange energies, built crude homes upon its tranquil shores. Over time, the Well's cosmic power affected the strange tribe, making them strong, wise and virtually immortal. The tribe adopted the name Kaldorei, which meant -children of the stars- in their native tongue. To celebrate their budding society, they constructed great structures and temples around the lake's periphery.

[page 640]
next_page=641
text=The Kaldorei, or night elves as they would later be known, worshipped the moon goddess, Elune, and believed that she slept within the Well's shimmering depths during the daylight hours. The early night elf priests and seers studied the Well with an insatiable curiosity, driven to plumb its untold secrets and power. As their society grew, the night elves explored the
text=breadth of Kalimdor and encountered its myriad denizens.

[page 641]
next_page=642
text=The only creatures that gave them pause were the ancient and powerful dragons. Though
text=the great serpentine beasts were often reclusive, they did much to safeguard the known lands from potential threats. The night elves believed that the dragons held themselves to be the protectors of the world, and that they and their secrets were best left alone.

[page 642]
next_page=643
text=In time, the night elves' curiosity led them to meet and befriend a number of powerful entities, not the least of which was Cenarius, a mighty demi-god of the primordial forestlands. The great-hearted Cenarius grew fond of the inquisitive night elves and spent a great deal of time teaching them about the natural world. The tranquil Kaldorei developed a strong empathy for the living forests of Kalimdor and reveled in the harmonious balance of nature.

[page 643]
next_page=644
text=Yet, as the seemingly endless ages passed, the night elves' civilization expanded both territorially and culturally. Their temples, roads, and dwelling places stretched across the breadth of the dark continent. Azshara, the night elves' beautiful and gifted Queen, built an immense, wondrous palace on the Well's shore that housed her favored servitors within its bejeweled halls.

[page 644]
next_page=645
text=Her servitors, whom she called the Quel'dorei or -high-borne,- doted on her every command and believed themselves to be greater than the rest of their lower-caste brethren. Though Queen Azshara was loved equally by all of her people, the high-borne were secretly hated by the jealous masses.
text=
text=Sharing the priests' curiosity towards the Well of Eternity, Azshara ordered the educated high-borne to plumb its secrets and reveal its true purpose in the world.

[page 645]
next_page=646
text=The high-borne buried themselves in their work and studied the Well ceaselessly. In time they developed the ability to manipulate and control the Well's cosmic energies. As their reckless experiments progressed, the high-borne found that they could use their newfound powers to either create or destroy at their leisure. The hapless high-borne had stumbled upon primitive magic and were now resolved to devote themselves to its mastery.

[page 646]
next_page=647
text=Although they agreed that magic was inherently dangerous if handled irresponsibly, Azshara and her highborne began to practice their spellcraft with reckless abandon. Cenarius and many of the wizened night elf scholars warned that only calamity would result from toying with the clearly volatile arts of magic. But, Azshara and her followers stubbornly continued to expand their burgeoning powers.

[page 647]
next_page=648
text=As their powers grew, a distinct change came over Azshara and the high-borne. The haughty, aloof upper class became increasingly callous and cruel towards their fellow night elves. A dark, brooding pall veiled Azshara's once entrancing beauty. She began to withdraw from her loving subjects and refused to interact with any but her trusted high-borne priests.

[page 648]
text=A young, brazen scholar named Furion Stormrage, who had spent much of his time studying the Well's effects, began to suspect that a terrible power was corrupting the high-borne and his beloved Queen. Though he could not conceive the evil that was to come, he knew that the night elves' lives would soon be changed forever....

[page 649]
next_page=650
text=-Perfectly round, spanning from fist to elbow.
text=
text=-Studs along the edge.  Silver.
text=
text=-One large stud in the center, spanning three finger widths.  Silver.
text=
text=-Oaken, and reinforced with iron.
text=
text=-My name, Gringer Stormpike, etched across the top rim.
text=

[page 650]
text=Payment will be made through the usual channels.  And do give the bearer of this request a standard, delivery stipend.  You may add it to the cost of the shield.
text=
text=
text=
text=Sincerely, and many thanks,
text=--Gringer Stormpike

[page 690]
text=The word BETRAYER is crudely scratched over the finely etched epitaph that reads:
text=
text=Yuriv lies here.
text=Father, Husband, Paladin.
text=Let his children bear witness to the fact that his dedication to the Light was unquestionable.
text=He would never ask anything of them that he himself would not do.
text=

[page 697]
text=Diary - Day 512
text=
text=The bananas have started talking to me and I have learned a great deal about their culture.  I have ceased my senseless destruction of their homes and consumption of the young.  How little I knew then of the great civilization that I was destroying.
text=
text=On another topic I seem to be running low on bottles and paper.  When I first looked at those huge stacks of paper that washed ashore I thought they would be inexhaustible.  Woe with me, my diary must end soon.

[page 731]
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=Eliza
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="center">
text=Beloved wife, may the earth sate your hunger.
text=</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 751]
text=Here are the piston's specifications:
text=Length: 32 WW
text=Width: 12 WW
text=Weight: 23.5 IBG to 25.5 IBG
text=Conduction: 70 TC
text=Shear Strength: 98 or higher
text=Combobule Rating: �super stout� or higher
text=In the case you forgot gnomish measurements:
text=WW = �Whisker Width�
text=IGB = �Itty-Bitty Grams�
text=TC = �Toe Curls�

[page 752]
text=Aye, mon. Take dis letter to Frang in da Valley of Trials. He usually be outside da Den whipping young warriors into shape to fight for da Horde.$B$BHe needs cunning warriors like you to show da orcs how to fight wit sometin' other den their muscles. You be faster and smarter den most, but don't be braggin' 'bout that--orcs don' take kindly to insults. They be good allies, an' maybe they teach you a ting or two also.$B$B-Tar'sere

[page 771]
next_page=1211
text=FEEDING AND CARE:
text=
text=We are committed to providing you with everything needed to care for your pet.  Our customers have come to expect this level of service from Snuff Inc, and we agree!
text=
text=To that end, we have designed sturdy gopher crates with small holes, perfect for keeping your pet safe, secure and out of the light.
text=
text=For your convenience, inside every create is a food pellet receptacle, infused with the alluring scent of blueleaf tubers (the snufflenose gopher's favorite treat)!
text=
text=

[page 794]
next_page=795
text=Our world brims with history.  History of races new and old.  History behind wars long dead, and those which still smolder.
text=
text=History of gods visiting from the skies.  And history of older gods who sleep in the earth.
text=
text=I speak now of those beings - the Old Gods.  They who dwelt and raged across Azeroth when the world was new.

[page 795]
next_page=796
text=The Old Gods are the will of our world.  In every storm there roars the laughter of an Old God.  The blaze of a wildfire is the heat of their gaze.  As Old Gods walk, the earth trembles and breaks, and lesser things scream and tear at their own flesh in despair.
text=
text=And despair they should, for just as fire shows no mercy to a child's curious hand, the Old Gods have no care for those beneath them.  At best, we are pawns.  At worst, we are playthings.

[page 796]
next_page=797
text=They were the first masters of the world, and they ruled with might and terror.  Though they are now chained and sleeping, their servants still roam and we small, frail mortals cannot match their strength.
text=
text=Those who try are devoured.  But those who know their place, who kneel in supplication to the servants of the Old Gods, who willingly sacrifice mind and soul... only they will find favor.

[page 797]
text=Aku'mai, Princess of the Deep, serves the Old Gods.  She dwells in Blackfathom Deeps, blessing its caves with her ancient wisdom.   Brought to the Deeps by older mortals, Aku'mai is a symbol of divinity.  She has but a sliver of the Old Gods' power and savagery, and yet hers is still beyond measure.
text=
text=And so she is worshipped.  And she is feared, and loved.
text=
text=
text=--Lorgalis

[page 855]
next_page=856
text=Below you will find that which is needed for my spell to summon the great Cyclonian.  May fortune go with you.
text=--Bath'rah the Windwatcher

[page 856]
next_page=857
text=Liferoot:
text=This may be gathered from the wilderness, or gained from the Withervine Beasts of Dustwallow Marsh.  It's power will be necessary to draw the life essence of Cyclonian to this world.

[page 857]
next_page=858
text=Bloodscalp Tusks:
text=The tusks of the Bloodscalp Trolls in Stranglethorn Vale have a rare quality.  The depravation of the Bloodscalps is concentrated in their tusks, and if ground into powder their vile powers may be unleashed.

[page 858]
text=Essence of the Exile:
text=This essence is gained through the fusion of the three charms of the elemental exiles of the Arathi Mountains.  Gather Thundering, Burning and Cresting Charms from the elementals, then place eight of each in my cauldron.
text=From the charms, the essence of the exile will form.

[page 871]
next_page=872
text=$N,
text=Before I go any further, let me thank you again for everything you've done for my wife and I. You saved her life, and for that, I owe you far more than I could possibly repay in a hundred lives. She is everything to me. If she would have died... well, I don't know what I would have done.
text=
text=Here is the list of things you'll need to recover if I am going to forge a holy weapon for you. I put them in order of what I thought was easiest to hardest--I hope that makes it simpler for you.

[page 872]
next_page=873
text=Some good whitestone oak - Before it was taken over, the mines below Moonbrook in Westfall had an abundance of the lumber
text=
text=It was brought down there after being shipped from overseas somewhere. It's a rare wood that is plenty strong enough to be used in the crafting of your weapon. If any of it's left in the mines, then the goblin woodcarvers would have it.

[page 873]
next_page=874
text=Refined Ore - There is a dwarf in Thelsamar, a smith that I trained with for some time, named Bailor Stonehand. He makes a very special alloy that I think would be perfect for your weapon. I expected a shipment of the alloy to arrive while I was in Ironforge, but I have yet to hear word from him.
text=
text=Find him and check on the shipment. And if he's no longer in Loch Modan, I would at least know what's happened to my old teacher.

[page 874]
next_page=875
text=Smithing Hammer - Before the coming of the Plague and Arthas' betrayal, I lived in a town called Pyrewood, deep within the beautiful forest of Silverpine. The forest isn't nearly as beautiful as it once was, and the keep where I learned the secret of steel has long since become corrupt and foul, overrun with creatures of unimaginable evil.
text=
text=When my wife and I made our escape from what is now called Shadowfang Keep, we left some of our most precious possessions.

[page 875]
next_page=876
text=Among them, the smithing hammer my father gave me. I doubted it in my youth, but he always told me the hammer was enchanted, and it's the last reminder I had of him before he was killed by the Scourge.
text=
text=Bring me my hammer, $N, so I may use it as a focus for my passion. If it is indeed enchanted, then it will only aid us both.
text=
text=I left it in the stables in the main courtyard of the keep. Unless the creatures there have taken up smithing themselves, then I expect it to still be lying there.

[page 876]
text=A Kor Gem - From the tales I've been told, the gems are used by some spell casters to hold energy for their magics, making them even deadlier. A night elf I once helped, Thundris Windweaver, can tell you more since you will be speaking on my behalf. I believe one of the gem's stored energies can be used in your weapon's creation.
text=
text=When last we spoke, Thundris was in Auberdine a town deep within Darkshore, the corrupted forest that dots the coast underneath the shadow of the night elf homeland.

[page 891]
text=The swirling symbols and pictograms that fill the pages of this manual are esoteric beyond comprehension.

[page 911]
next_page=991
text=Get a Jade.  They hide in many different places.  They are rare, but if you  speak with a blacksmith or engineer they might have one or two to spare.

[page 951]
next_page=971
text=(Only portions of the journal are legible through the stains.)
text=
text=Uldaman, Day 3
text=
text=I cannot believe how foolish I was.  To be blind-sided by the foul Shadowforge dwarves was a novice's feat.  My wounds heal slowly
text=
text=...make matters worse, the necklace the gnome made for me has been shattered!  Three of the largest gems set into it have been lost.  I must find them

[page 971]
next_page=972
text=Uldaman, Day 4
text=
text=...first clue revealed itself deep within Uldaman, as one of the most savage troggs I have ever seen was brandishing about a large sapphire -- one I wager that would fit perfectly into the necklace.  I overheard one of the Shadowforge dwarves mention the beasts name: Grimlok.  The cadre of guardians this brute Grimlok has, however...

[page 972]
next_page=973
text=Uldaman, Day 5
text=
text=...the trogg, then taking the topaz from his slain "brethren", marched into the side cave near the front of the hall...
text=
text=...quick to place the topaz in a large, conspicuous urn toward the back of the chamber...
text=
text=...of all things, dwarves!  Three of them, to boot.  They're barricaded against the troggs currently.  Calling to them would have been a call for suicide, lest I be overran by the foul troggs in my weakened state.  Once I know the third gem, however, I shall...

[page 973]
next_page=974
text=Uldaman, Day 6
text=
text=...so very hungry.  I am out of supplies, and would consider moldy bread to be a feast at this point.  I witnessed a trogg's head turn into a juicy steak right in front of my very eyes...

[page 974]
text=Uldaman, Day 7
text=
text=...last chance at redemtion for my failures.  I believe the ruby is in the last barricaded area the dwarves have against the troggs.  Their battles, no doubt over the gems and the other artifacts from this site, rage continuously.  It would be just like those vile dwarves to hide it somewhere there.  Regardless, I must make a move one way or another.  Perhaps a mad dash to the surface is the best course...

[page 991]
text=Get a Bolt Charged Bramble.  To get one of those, gather 10 Witherbark Totem Sticks from the Witherbark Trolls of the Arathi Highlands.  Bring the sticks to the Circle of Outer Binding, a circle of stones in those same highlands.  Place the sticks on the center stone in the circle and wait for lightning to strike it.  When it does, the Bolt Charged Bramble will be formed.

[page 992]
text=The bearer of this certificate is entitled to the respect and regard that any first rate pilferer and thief deserves.

[page 1011]
text=I have found a method to enter the Chamber of Khaz'mul!
text=
text=Take the Medallion of Gni'kiv from my chest.
text=
text=Defeat the trogg Revelosh in the chamber before the map room and retrieve the Shaft of Tsol.
text=
text=Join the medallion and the shaft into the Staff of Prehistoria.
text=
text=Use the staff in the map room to unlock the door to the Chamber of Khaz'mul.
text=
text=Do these things, and the chamber will be yours!
text=-Baelog

[page 1031]
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<P>
text=In memory of my dear mentor, Horatio M. Montgomery, M.D. Healer, Teacher, Friend.
text=</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=50 BTFT - 25 ATFT
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<P>
text="The world is full of the sick and weary. It is our job, as healers, NAY, as men and women of medicine, to cleanse them ALL of the 'itis.'"
text=</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P>
text=- H.M.M., M.D., PhD, JD, Grandmaster Farmer, Dancer Extraordinaire, Friend to the Animals
text=</P>
text=<BR/>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1051]
next_page=1052
text=The guards of this tower seem to be especially weak to my attacks. As I was scouting the backside of the tower, a patroller spotted me and attacked. I was able to easily dispatch the guard with a timely gouge followed by a garrote.
text=
text=I waited in hiding for her partner to come investigate the commotion. The patroller came towards the bushes where I had dragged the corpse and began a search. Slowly, carefully, I crept up behind him, not wanting my ambush to be discovered.

[page 1052]
next_page=1053
text=When the opportunity was made available, I thrust my dagger into his backside! His lungs quickly gave way under the force of the attack as his corpse hit the ground with a dull thud.
text=
text=It had been such a fast and violent ambush that the poor fool did not even have the time to scream in pain. Curiously, when I removed the blade from his backside, a foul odor leaked out of the perforated patroller.
text=
text=

[page 1053]
text=It would appear that whatever it is that Klaven has locked away in the chest is having adverse effects upon the inhabitants of the tower. I suspect that the other guards may have similar weaknesses and perhaps, even Klaven himself has fallen victim to the fallout.
text=
text=Agent Amber Kearnen
text=SI:7 Ground Level Operative, R8

[page 1091]
text=The Mallet of Zul'Farrak
text=
text=To create the Mallet of Zul'Farrak, one must first travel to the Altar of Zul and obtain the sacred mallet from a troll Keeper.
text=
text=Next, one must bring the sacred mallet to the altar atop of the troll city of Jintha'alor.
text=
text=Using the the sacred mallet at the altar will infuse with power, and trasnform it into the Mallet of Zul'Farrak.
text=

[page 1131]
text=SUPER CRITICAL TRIPLE-ENCODED DATA CARD
text=
text=01010100 01101000 01110010 01100001 01101100 01101100 00100000 01100001 01101110 01100100 00100000 01001010 01100001 01101001 01101110 01100001 00100000 01110011 01101001 01110100 01110100 01101001 01101110 01100111 00100000 01101001 01101110 00100000 01100001 00100000 01110100 01110010 01100101 01100101 00101100 00100000 01001011 00101101 01001001 00101101 01010011 00101101 01010011 00101101 01001001 00101101 01001110 00101101 01000111

[page 1151]
next_page=1152
text=The Venture Company <illegible text> It would seem that the fools nearly wiped out their entire operation in trying to stabilize the mixture.
text=
text=<several pages appear to be torn out>
text=
text=

[page 1152]
next_page=1153
text=What I have noticed is that the fallout is extremely lethal. Imagine if <illegible text> Hahaha!

[page 1153]
next_page=1154
text=Am I going mad? Today I severed the head of one of my most trusted patrollers in order to get a better look at their soul. As I peered down their severed breathing passage, it occurred to me: I had not eaten anything in days!
text=

[page 1154]
next_page=1155
text=Mathias Shaw has sent an errand boy to kill me. <illegible text>
text=
text=He patrols outside now. Mindless, lifeless drone.
text=
text=Hahahah!

[page 1155]
text=VanCleef...<illegible text>
text=
text=Called me IN?? WHO DOES HE THINK HE IS?? I am Klaven Mortwake! I shall not be told what to do by an insect!
text=
text=<the rest of the pages in the book are missing>

[page 1191]
text=ULTA VITAL DATA!  SECURITY RATING 5122!
text=
text=01001001 01100110 00100000 01111001 01101111 01110101 00100000 01100011 01100001 01101110 00100000 01110010 01100101 01100001 01100100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01101001 01110011 00101100 00100000 01111001 01101111 01110101 00100111 01110010 01100101 00100000 01110011 01110100 01100001 01101110 01100100 01101001 01101110 01100111 00100000 01110100 01101111 01101111 00100000 01100011 01101100 01101111 01110011 01100101

[page 1192]
text=Do NOT let this information fall into enemy hands!
text=01010100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01100111 01101110 01101111 01101101 01100101 00100000 01101011 01101001 01101110 01100111 00100000 01110111 01100101 01100001 01110010 01110011 00100000 01101110 01101001 01100111 01101000 01110100 00100000 01100101 01101100 01100110 00100000 01110101 01101110 01100100 01100101 01110010 01110111 01100101 01100001 01110010

[page 1193]
text=Security rating 10^10000 super sensitive data!
text=
text=01001000 01100101 01101100 01110000 00100001 00100000 00100000 01001001 00100111 01101101 00100000 01110100 01110010 01100001 01110000 01110000 01100101 01100100 00100000 01101001 01101110 00100000 01100001 00100000 01100010 01101001 01101110 01100001 01110010 01111001 00100000 01110000 01110101 01101110 01100011 01101000 00100000 01100011 01100001 01110010 01100100 00100000 01100110 01100001 01100011 01110100 01101111 01110010 01111001 00100001

[page 1194]
next_page=1331
text=The security rating of this data SO high that it is pending the invention of a new number to describe it!

[page 1211]
next_page=1212
text=WALKING YOUR GOPHER
text=
text=The snufflenose gopher likes small, dark places.  And it is very shy.
text=
text=If you wish to walk your gopher, then you must take it to a place that feels like home.  And you MUST take it to where your gopher can smell its favorite food: blueleaf tubers!
text=
text=The closest such place is the "trench" area of Razorfen Kraul.  If you open your crate near the trench, and your gopher can smell any nearby tubers, then he will venture out and follow you.
text=
text=
text=

[page 1212]
next_page=1213
text=THE SNUFFLENOSE COMMAND STICK(tm)
text=
text=The snufflenose gopher is an amazing animal.  Not only does it inspire love and affection from even the most ornery plainstrider, it can smell a buried blueleaf tuber from up to fifty yards away!
text=
text=If you wish to send your gopher to find a tuber, then you may use our (separately sold) patented snufflenose  command stick.
text=
text=Direction following on next page...

[page 1213]
next_page=1214
text=All of our gophers are highly trained, and merely waving your command stick will send a nearby gopher into "search mode."  The gopher will then sniff for a tuber and if he smells one, he'll move toward it and dig it up.
text=
text=If you wave the command stick again while the gopher is searching for a tuber, then it will stop its search and happily return to your side.
text=
text=We are confident that you'll find our gophers well trained, useful and squeezably soft additions to your party!

[page 1214]
text=It pains us to mention that we at Snuff Inc. have received reports that some greedy tuber hunters care little for the safety of their lovable pets and send them into dark, dangerous nooks and cranies in search of tubers.
text=
text=We do not condone such irresponsible behavior, but in the efforts of customer satisfaction we have included a warranty with every gopher sold, allowing new owners to return to their point of purchase and replace lost pets.
text=
text=Happy Hunting!
text=

[page 1271]
next_page=1272
text=The Engineering Disciplines$B$BWhile it is arguable which race first devised the science of engineering on Azeroth, there is little argument as to which races are the main proponents of it in modern times: the gnomes and the goblins.  Their dedication to engineering as a collective whole has not only fueled fantastic inventions in what is arguably a magical Age of Invention, but it also fueled their intense racial rivalry.  Nowhere is this more evident than in their divergent disciplines.

[page 1272]
next_page=1273
text=Gnome Engineering$B$BThe gnomes as a race tend to excel in the design of items intended to manipulate and control the world around them.  While they maintain a cursory understanding of explosives and weaponry, gnome engineering focuses instead on items that quite literally try to make life easier and more accessible.  It is a discipline of theoretical possibilities made reality through gnomish know-how.  Some possibilities, however, are never fully realized.

[page 1273]
next_page=1274
text=Goblin Engineering$B$BAs a race that finds itself as neutral in almost every conflict, goblins have taken great steps to turn science into profit.  They embrace the practical applications of engineering, as evident in their radical designs of explosives, firearms, and machinery.  Goblin engineering only maintains a passing interest in engineering theory

[page 1274]
next_page=1275
text=Discipline Study$B$BGnomes and goblins protect their knowledge from each other to such lengths that it is nigh impossible to access both sets of disciplines simultaneously.  Each race, regardless of political affiliations, keeps the knowledge of these disciplines available only to those who agree to forgo pursuit of the other's discipline.  If a student chooses to embrace gnome engineering, for example, then no knowledge of goblin engineering will ever be made available to them.

[page 1275]
next_page=1276
text=Permanent Decisions$B$BThe previous section highlighted an important point about the two engineering disciplines that must be reiterated for the sake of education.  A decision to engage in either of the two disciplines means that the opposing discipline's schemata will not be available for study.  While such finality may be daunting to the layman engineer, the seasoned one understands that gnomes and goblins guard their secrets with complete fervor

[page 1276]
next_page=1277
text=Quotes$B$B"You want to know about goblin engineering?  Try asking one of their best and brightest engineers about it - I think his name is 'Nubby Stumpfingers'.  Want to know why he's named that?  THAT'S goblin engineering."$B-- Ringo Tragediction, gnome engineer$B$B"Say what you want about us goblins, but I will tell you this: WE HAVE EXPLOSIVES!"$B-- Yazz Nitrospork, goblin bombardier

[page 1277]
text=More Quotes!$B$B"Know that feeling you get when you finish making something and turn it on for the first time to experience the power and joy of invention as your device springs to life?  Gnomes don't."$B-- Nixx Sprocketspring, Master Goblin Engineer of Gadgetzan$B$B"Engineering is about taking fantasy and making it fantastic!"$B-- Rovis McCrankenspank, gnome inventor

[page 1311]
next_page=1312
text=To Whom It May Concern:
text=
text=If you are reading this note, then you are in one of two places:
text=
text=(1) On the southern peninsula of Azshara.
text=
text=(2) Inside the belly of a Cliff Giant.
text=
text=Both equally undesirable.
text=
text=It should be noted that I was the former at one time and as of the writing of this letter, the latter.

[page 1312]
text=Being inside the belly of a giant gives one time for reflection.
text=
text=As my body crystallizes, I have come to the conclusion that perhaps there are enough heroes in this world. Should I somehow make it out of this predicament I am going to ring that orc's ghostly neck!
text=
text=- Windan Shay

[page 1313]
next_page=1314
text=What was I thinking?
text=
text=Perhaps a better question would be: What am I doing writing a note while I'm sitting captive inside the stomach of a giant?
text=
text=Both good questions that I have no immediate answer for...
text=
text=Admittedly, mine was not a mission of good will. I came in search of Azsharite, a unique crystal to southern Azshara. Oh the riches I would have had!
text=
text=Bah! Now look at me...

[page 1314]
text=Should any manner of intelligent life find this note, they must ask themselves something: "Why in the hell are they romping around with violent thirty foot tall giants?"
text=
text=- Mook

[page 1331]
text=01001101 01100101 01110011 01110011 01100001 01100111 01100101 00100000 01110100 01101111 00100000 01000011 01100001 01110011 01110100 01110000 01101001 01110000 01100101 00111010 00100000 01111001 01101111 01110101 01110010 00100000 01101100 01100001 01110101 01101110 01100100 01110010 01111001 00100111 01110011 00100000 01110010 01100101 01100001 01100100 01111001 00100000 01100110 01101111 01110010 00100000 01110000 01101001 01100011 01101011 01110101 01110000 00101110

[page 1371]
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<IMG src="Interface\Pictures\Linken_sepia_256px"/>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1392]
text=Brother Neals,
text=
text=My grapes are saved!  $N, the bearer of this manifest, braved my thug-infested vineyard and gathered the grapes that I could not.  Although the Defias still roam across the river, nearly my entire crop has been salvaged.
text=
text=You may add a full load of grape bushels to your stores.
text=
text=May the Light protect us,
text=-Milly Osworth

[page 1432]
text=Bethek Stormbrow
text=
text=Bethek's wanderings take him deep within Blackrock.  The secrets of the mountain beckon him.
text=
text=May his spirit never falter.

[page 1436]
text=Pelver Deepstomp
text=
text=Dark Keeper Pelver is our most honored disciple.  He has borne the key for longer than any, and it has cost him dearly.  When he is called for his burden, he is guarded in the Domicile.
text=
text=His sacrifice is cherished, and he will remain in our hearts for many years... after the darkness takes him.

[page 1491]
next_page=1511
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=CRYSTAL PYLON USER'S MANUAL
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="center"> "A guide to collecting and using the power crystals of Un'Goro Crater" </P>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">Chapter 1: The Northern Pylon </P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">Chapter 2: The Eastern Pylon </P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">Chapter 3: The Western Pylon </P>
text=<BR/>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1511]
next_page=1512
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=Chapter 1: THE NORTHERN PYLON
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<IMG src="Interface\Pictures\11482_crystals_mini_north"/>
text=<P align="right">The Northern<BR/>
text=Pylon accepts<BR/>
text=yellow, red,<BR/>
text=and green<BR/>
text=crystals.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">The Pylon focuses on the energy that can be created using yellow crystals as the main source of power.</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1512]
next_page=1513
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=Northern Crystal Combinations
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">There are two possible effects: one that will produce damage, and one that will negate damage. </P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">CRYSTAL CHARGE: Requires red and yellow crystals. <BR/>This will produce a large explosion, stunning your enemies.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">CRYSTAL RESTORE: Requires yellow and green crystals. <BR/>This will provide you with a healing aura.
text=</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1513]
next_page=1514
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=NORTHERN PYLON TABLE DIAGRAM
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<IMG src="Interface\Pictures\11482_crystals_north"/>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1514]
next_page=1515
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=Chapter 2: THE EASTERN PYLON
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<IMG src="Interface\Pictures\11482_crystals_mini_east"/>
text=<P align="right">The Eastern<BR/>
text=Pylon accepts<BR/>
text=blue, yellow,<BR/>
text=and green<BR/>
text=crystals.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">The Pylon focuses on the energy that can be created using blue crystals as the main source of power.</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1515]
next_page=1516
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=Eastern Crystal Combinations
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">There are two possible effects: one provides bonus to spirit, and one that creates a damaging shield.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">CRYSTAL FORCE: Requires blue and green crystals.<BR/>This will provide you with an increase in spirit.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">CRYSTAL SPIRE: Requires blue and yellow crystals.<BR/>This will create a shield that does damage to attackers.
text=</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1516]
next_page=1531
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=EASTERN PYLON TABLE DIAGRAM
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<IMG src="Interface\Pictures\11482_crystals_east"/>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1531]
next_page=1532
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=Chapter 3: THE WESTERN PYLON
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<IMG src="Interface\Pictures\11482_crystals_mini_west"/>
text=<P align="right">The Western<BR/>
text=Pylon accepts<BR/>
text=red, green,<BR/>
text=and blue<BR/>
text=crystals.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">The Pylon focuses on the energy that can be created using red crystals as the main source of power.</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1532]
next_page=1533
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=Western Crystal Combinations
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">There are two possible effects: one that increases your protection from damage, and one that weakens an enemy's defenses.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">CRYSTAL WARD: Requires red and green crystals.<BR/>This will provide you with an increase to armor.</P>
text=<BR/>
text=<P align="left">CRYSTAL YIELD: Requires blue and red crystals.<BR/>This can lower the armor of a specific target.
text=</P>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1533]
text=<HTML>
text=<BODY>
text=<H1 align="center">
text=WESTERN PYLON TABLE DIAGRAM
text=</H1>
text=<BR/>
text=<IMG src="Interface\Pictures\11482_crystals_west"/>
text=</BODY>
text=</HTML>

[page 1591]
text=This anvil is the property of Jordan Stilwell - Please do NOT use!
text=
text=- Jordan

[page 1611]
next_page=1642
text=<The pages are covered in ancient elven runes.>
text=
text=The pages herein contain memories of events that transpired in the collection and creation of the reagents required to craft lesser arcanum.
text=
text=May our enemies never gain access to these libram.
text=
text=May I live to see the pallid light of the moon shine upon Quel'Thalas once again.
text=
text=May I die but for the grace of Kael'thas.
text=
text=May I kill for the glory of Illidan.
text=
text=-Master Kariel Winthalus

[page 1632]
next_page=1639
text=<The pages are covered in ancient elven runes.>
text=
text=The pages herein contain memories of events that transpired in the collection and creation of the reagents required to craft lesser arcanum.
text=
text=May our enemies never gain access to these libram.
text=
text=May I live to see the pallid light of the moon shine upon Quel'Thalas once again.
text=
text=May I die but for the grace of Kael'thas.
text=
text=May I kill for the glory of Illidan.
text=
text=-Master Kariel Winthalus

[page 1633]
next_page=1645
text=<The pages are covered in ancient elven runes.>
text=
text=The pages herein contain memories of events that transpired in the collection and creation of the reagents required to craft lesser arcanum.
text=
text=May our enemies never gain access to these libram.
text=
text=May I live to see the pallid light of the moon shine upon Quel'Thalas once again.
text=
text=May I die but for the grace of Kael'thas.
text=
text=May I kill for the glory of Illidan.
text=
text=-Master Kariel Winthalus

[page 1634]
next_page=1649
text=<The pages are covered in ancient elven runes.>
text=
text=The pages herein contain memories of events that transpired in the collection and creation of the reagents required to craft lesser arcanum.
text=
text=May our enemies never gain access to these libram.
text=
text=May I live to see the pallid light of the moon shine upon Quel'Thalas once again.
text=
text=May I die but for the grace of Kael'thas.
text=
text=May I kill for the glory of Illidan.
text=
text=-Master Kariel Winthalus

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[page 1711]
text=Urgent message to Cliffwatcher Longhorn$b$bA large Centaur force from Camp E'thok have raided one of our supply caravans. All members of the caravan were lost as well as all supplies. This was a bold, unprecedented attack by the Centaurs and I fear there may be more.

[page 1731]
text=Here lies King Terenas Menethil II -- Last True King of Lordaeron.
text=
text=Great were his deeds -- long was his reign -- unthinkable was his death.
text=
text=         "May the Father lie blameless for the deeds of the son.
text=          May the bloodied crown stay lost and forgotten."
text=

[page 1751]
text=The remains of the gargantuan red dragon were found in the Wetlands shortly after the Battle of Grim Batol. Tyrannistrasz was rumored to have been the elder consort of the Dragonqueen, Alextrasza.

[page 1752]
text=This petrified talon was found off of the southern coasts of Stranglethorn. Ecologists believe this talon to be that of an ancient sun roc. Though the creatures feature prominently in primitive tauren mythological cycles, the existence of this talon suggests the creatures truly existed at some point.

[page 1753]
text=The largest of the plainstrider birds, the Geru are few in number and rarely encountered.

[page 1754]
text=This is a scale replica of Toothgnasher's skeleton. The legendary ram was a wonder of Khaz Modan and the subject of many tales of dwarven folklore. To this day, ecologists have been unable to account for the ram's freakish size or physical stamina.

[page 1756]
text=This intact pteradon skeleton was recovered from the remote Un'Goro Crater. Based on the skeletal structure, it is clear that this specific genus has not yet been encountered. This skeleton could have been preserved for any number of centuries beneath the region's rich soil.

[page 1757]
text=Recovered from the undersea ruins of Suramar, this functional astrolabe was crafted by the highborne night elves nearly twelve thousand years ago. The highborne, obsessed with magic, the occult and astronomy, developed a series of ingenious apparatuses. This device provides invaluable insights into the ancient night elves' level of scientific understanding.

[page 1758]
text=These ancient pieces of earthenware were recovered from the Uldaman excavation. Though they hold little in the way of suggestive runes or hieroglyphs, they do provide a telling look at the craftsmanship and day to day accessories of the ancient dwarven race.

[page 1759]
text=These etched relief runners were perhaps the most significant find within the first chambers of Uldaman. The etchings clearly suggest a tie between the golem-like earthen and the dwarven race. Should further evidence arise, the theories of our supposed creation by the mythic titans could prove to be true.

[page 1760]
text=Found in the sweltering wastes of the Tanaris desert, this peculiar egg remains a mystery to modern ecologists. Dating tests suggest the egg could be up to a thousand years old. Though certain elements denote insectoid structure, its true origins cannot be discerned.  The species that lays such distinct eggs still remains to be discovered.

[page 1761]
text=This remnant from the Second War serves as a stirring reminder of just how perilously close the Horde came to conquering Ironforge Mountain.

[page 1787]
next_page=1788
text=Unaware of Sargeras' mission to undo their countless works, the Titans continued to move from world to world, shaping and ordering each planet as they saw fit. Along their journey they happened upon a small world that its inhabitants would later name Azeroth.

[page 1788]
next_page=1789
text=As the Titans made their way across the primordial landscape, they encountered a number of hostile elemental beings. These elementals, who worshipped a race of unfathomably evil beings known only as the Old Gods, vowed to drive the Titans back and keep their world inviolate from the invaders' metallic touch.

[page 1789]
next_page=1790
text=The Pantheon, disturbed by the Old Gods' penchant for evil, waged war upon the elementals and their dark masters. The Old Gods' armies were led by the most powerful elemental lieutenants: Ragnaros the Firelord, Therazane the Stonemother, Al'Akir the Windlord, and Neptulon the Tidehunter.

[page 1790]
next_page=1791
text=Their chaotic forces raged across the face of the world and clashed with the colossal Titans. Though the elementals were powerful beyond mortal comprehension, their combined forces could not stop the mighty Titans. One by one, the elemental lords fell, and their forces dispersed.

[page 1791]
next_page=1792
text=The Pantheon shattered the Old Gods' citadels and chained the five evil gods far beneath the surface of the world. Without the Old Gods' power to keep their raging spirits bound to the physical world, the elementals were banished to an abyssal plane, where they would contend with one another for all eternity. With the elementals' departure, nature calmed, and the world settled into a peaceful harmony. The Titans saw that the threat was contained and set to work.

[page 1792]
next_page=1793
text=The Titans empowered a number of races to help them fashion the world. To help them carve out the fathomless caverns beneath the earth, the Titans created the dwarf-like earthen from magical, living stone. To help them dredge out the seas and lift the land from the sea floor, the Titans created the immense but gentle sea giants. For many ages the Titans moved and shaped the earth, until at last there remained one perfect continent.

[page 1793]
next_page=1794
text=At the continent's center, the Titans crafted a lake of scintillating energies. The lake, which they named the Well of Eternity, was to be the fount of life for the world. Its potent energies would nurture the bones of the world and empower life to take root in the land's rich soil. Over time, plants, trees, monsters, and creatures of every kind began to thrive on the primordial continent.

[page 1794]
text=As twilight fell on the final day of their labors, the Titans named the continent Kalimdor: "land of eternal starlight".

[page 1795]
next_page=1796
text=Satisfied that the small world had been ordered and that their work was done, the Titans prepared to leave Azeroth. However, before they departed, they charged the greatest species of the world with the task of watching over Kalimdor, lest any force should threaten its perfect tranquility. In that age, there were many dragonflights.

[page 1796]
next_page=1797
text=Yet there were five flights that held dominion over their brethren. It was these five flights that the Titans chose to shepherd the budding world. The greatest members of the Pantheon imbued a portion of their power upon each of the flights' leaders. These majestic dragons (as listed below) became known as the Great Aspects, or the Dragon Aspects.

[page 1797]
next_page=1798
text=Aman'Thul, the Highfather of the Pantheon, bestowed a portion of his cosmic power upon the massive bronze dragon, Nozdormu. The Highfather empowered Nozdormu to guard time itself and police the ever-spinning pathways of fate and destiny. The stoic, honorable Nozdormu became known as the Timeless One.

[page 1798]
next_page=1799
text=Eonar, the Titan patron of all life, gave a portion of her power to the red leviathan, Alexstrasza. Ever after, Alexstrasza would be known as the Life-Binder, and she would work to safeguard all living creatures within the world. Due to her supreme wisdom and limitless compassion for all living things, Alexstrasza was crowned the Dragonqueen and given dominion over her kind.

[page 1799]
next_page=1800
text=Eonar also blessed Alexstrasza's younger sister, the lithe green dragon Ysera, with a portion of nature's influence. Ysera fell into an eternal trance, bound to the waking Dream of Creation. Known as the Dreamer, she would watch over the growing wilds of the world from her verdant realm, the Emerald Dream.

[page 1800]
next_page=1801
text=Norgannon, the Titan lore keeper and master-magician, granted the blue dragon, Malygos, a portion of his vast power. From then on, Malygos would be known as the Spell-Weaver, the guardian of magic and hidden arcanum.

[page 1801]
next_page=1802
text=Khaz'goroth, the Titan shaper and forger of the world, bestowed some of his vast power upon the mighty black wyrm, Neltharion. The great-hearted Neltharion, known afterwards as the Earth-Warder, was given dominion over the earth and the deep places of the world. He embodied the strength of the world and served as Alexstrasza's greatest supporter.

[page 1802]
text=Thus empowered, the Five Aspects were charged with the world's defense in the Titans' absence. With the dragons prepared to safeguard their creation, the Titans left Azeroth behind forever. Unfortunately it was only a matter of time before Sargeras learned of the newborn world's existence....

[page 1803]
next_page=1804
text=The Highborne's reckless use of magic sent ripples of energy spiraling out from the Well of Eternity and into the Great Dark Beyond. The streaming ripples of energy were felt by terrible alien minds. Sargeras - the Great Enemy of all life, the Destroyer of Worlds - felt the potent ripples and was drawn to their distant point of origin.

[page 1804]
next_page=1805
text=Spying the primordial world of Azeroth and sensing the limitless energies of the Well of Eternity, Sargeras was consumed by an insatiable hunger. The great dark god of the Nameless Void resolved to destroy the fledgling world and claim its energies as his own.

[page 1805]
next_page=1806
text=Sargeras gathered his vast Burning Legion and made his way towards the unsuspecting world of Azeroth. The Legion was comprised of a million screaming demons, all ripped from the far corners of the universe, and the demons hungered for conquest. Sargeras' lieutenants, Archimonde the Defiler and Mannoroth the Destructor, prepared their infernal minions to strike.

[page 1806]
next_page=1807
text=Queen Azshara, overwhelmed by the terrible ecstasy of her magic, fell victim to Sargeras' undeniable power and agreed to grant him entrance to her world. Even her Highborne servitors gave themselves over to magic's inevitable corruption and began to worship Sargeras as their god. To show their allegiance to the Legion, the Highborne aided their queen in opening a vast, swirling portal within the depths of the Well of Eternity.

[page 1807]
next_page=1808
text=Once all his preparations had been made, Sargeras began his catastrophic invasion of Azeroth. The warrior-demons of the Burning Legion stormed into the world through the Well of Eternity and laid siege to the night elves' sleeping cities. Led by Archimonde and Mannoroth, the Legion swarmed over the lands of Kalimdor, leaving only ash and sorrow in its wake.

[page 1808]
next_page=1809
text=The demon warlocks called down searing infernals that crashed like hellish meteors into the graceful spires of Kalimdor's temples. A band of burning, bloodletting killers known as the Doomguard marched across Kalimdor's fields, slaughtering everyone in their path. Packs of wild, demonic felhounds ravaged the countryside unopposed. Though the brave Kaldorei warriors rushed to defend their ancient homeland, they were forced to give ground, inch by inch, before the fury of the Legion's onslaught.

[page 1809]
next_page=1810
text=It fell to Malfurion Stormrage to find help for his beleaguered people. Stormrage, whose own brother, Illidan, practiced the Highborne's magics, was incensed by the growing corruption amongst the upper class. Convincing Illidan to forsake his dangerous obsession, Malfurion set out to find Cenarius and muster a resistance force.

[page 1810]
next_page=1811
text=The beautiful young priestess, Tyrande, agreed to accompany the brothers in the name of Elune. Though Malfurion and Illidan shared a love for the idealistic priestess, Tyrande's heart belonged to Malfurion alone. Illidan resented his brother's budding romance with Tyrande, but knew that his heartache was nothing compared to the pain of his magical addiction.

[page 1811]
next_page=1812
text=Illidan, who had grown dependent on magic's empowering energies, struggled to keep control of his nearly overwhelming hunger to tap the Well's energies once again. However, with Tyrande's patient support, he was able to restrain himself and help his brother find the reclusive demigod, Cenarius.

[page 1812]
next_page=1813
text=Cenarius, who dwelt within the sacred Moonglades of the distant Mount Hyjal, agreed to help the night elves by finding the ancient dragons and enlisting their aid. The dragons, led by the great red leviathan, Alexstrasza, agreed to send their mighty flights to engage the demons and their infernal masters.

[page 1813]
next_page=1814
text=Cenarius, calling on the spirits of the enchanted forests, rallied an army of ancient tree-men and led them against the Legion in a daring ground assault. As the night elves' allies converged upon Azshara's temple and the Well of Eternity, all-out warfare erupted. Despite the strength of their newfound allies, Malfurion and his colleagues realized that the Legion could not be defeated by martial strength alone.

[page 1814]
next_page=1815
text=As the titanic battle raged around Azshara's capital city, the delusional queen waited in anticipation for Sargeras' arrival. The lord of the Legion was preparing to pass through the Well of Eternity and enter the ravaged world. As his impossibly huge shadow drew ever closer to the Well's surface, Azshara gathered the most powerful of her Highborne followers. Only by linking their magics together in one focused spell would they be able to create a gateway large enough for Sargeras to enter.

[page 1815]
next_page=1816
text=As the battle raged across the burning fields of Kalimdor, a terrible turn of events unfolded. The details of the event have been lost to time, but it is known that Neltharion, the Dragon Aspect of the Earth, went mad during a critical engagement against the Burning Legion. He began to split apart as flame and rage erupted from his dark hide. Renaming himself Deathwing, the burning dragon turned on his brethren and drove the five dragonflights from the field of battle.

[page 1816]
next_page=1817
text=Deathwing's sudden betrayal was so destructive that the five dragonflights never truly recovered. Wounded and shocked, Alexstrasza and the other noble dragons were forced to abandon their mortal allies. Malfurion and his companions, now hopelessly outnumbered, barely survived the ensuing onslaught.

[page 1817]
text=Malfurion, convinced that the Well of Eternity was the demons' umbilical link to the physical world, insisted that it should be destroyed. His companions, knowing that the Well was the source of their immortality and powers, were horrified by the rash notion. Yet Tyrande saw the wisdom of Malfurion's theory, so she convinced Cenarius and their comrades to storm Azshara's temple and find a way to shut the Well down for good.

[page 1828]
next_page=1829
text=The few night elves that survived the horrific explosion rallied together on crudely made rafts and slowly made their way to the only landmass in sight. Somehow, by the grace of Elune, Malfurion, Tyrande, and Cenarius had survived the Great Sundering. The weary heroes agreed to lead their fellow survivors and establish a new home for their people.

[page 1829]
next_page=1830
text=As they journeyed in silence, they surveyed the wreckage of their world and realized that their passions had wrought the destruction all around them. Though Sargeras and his Legion had been ripped from the world by the Well's destruction, Malfurion and his companions were left to ponder the terrible cost of victory.

[page 1830]
next_page=1831
text=There were many Highborne who did survive the cataclysm unscathed. They made their way to the shores of the new land along with the other night elves. Though Malfurion mistrusted the Highborne's motivations, he was satisfied that they could cause no real mischief without the Well's energies.

[page 1831]
next_page=1832
text=As the weary mass of night elves landed upon the shores of the new land, they found that the holy mountain, Hyjal, had survived the catastrophe. Seeking to establish a new home for themselves, Malfurion and the night elves climbed the slopes of Hyjal and reached its windswept summit. As they descended into the wooded bowl, nestled between the mountain's enormous peaks, they found a small, tranquil lake. To their horror, they found that the lake's waters had been fouled by magic.

[page 1832]
next_page=1833
text=Illidan, having survived the Sundering as well, had reached Hyjal summit long before Malfurion and the night elves. In his mad bid to maintain the flows of magic in the world, Illidan had poured his vials, which contained the precious waters from the Well of Eternity, into the mountain lake.

[page 1833]
next_page=1834
text=The Well's potent energies quickly ignited and coalesced into a new Well of Eternity. The exultant Illidan, believing that the new Well was a gift to future generations, was shocked when Malfurion hunted him down. Malfurion explained to his brother that magic was innately chaotic and that its use would inevitably lead to widespread corruption and strife. Still, Illidan refused to relinquish his magical powers.

[page 1834]
next_page=1835
text=Knowing full well where Illidan's ruthless schemes would eventually lead, Malfurion decided to deal with his power-crazed brother once and for all. With Cenarius' help, Malfurion sealed Illidan within a vast underground barrow prison, where he would remain chained and powerless until the end of time. To ensure his brother's containment, Malfurion empowered the young warden, Maiev Shadowsong, to be Illidan's personal jailor.

[page 1835]
text=Concerned that destroying the new Well might bring about an even greater catastrophe, the night elves resolved to leave it be. However, Malfurion declared that they would never practice the arts of magic again. Under Cenarius' watchful eye, they began to study the ancient arts of druidism that would enable them to heal the ravaged earth and re-grow their beloved forests at the base of Mount Hyjal.

[page 1836]
next_page=1837
text=For many years, the night elves worked tirelessly to rebuild what they could of their ancient homeland. Leaving their broken temples and roads to be overgrown, they constructed their new homes amidst the verdant trees and shadowed hills at Hyjal's base. In time, the dragons that had survived the great Sundering came forth from their secret abodes.

[page 1837]
next_page=1838
text=Alexstrasza the red, Ysera the green, and Nozdormu the bronze descended upon the druids' tranquil glades and surveyed the fruits of the night elves' labors. Malfurion, who had become an arch-druid of immense power, greeted the mighty dragons and told them about the creation of the new Well of Eternity.

[page 1838]
next_page=1839
text=The great dragons were alarmed to hear the dark news and speculated that as long as the Well remained, the Legion might one day return and assault the world once again. Malfurion and the three dragons made a pact to keep the Well safe and ensure that the agents of the Burning Legion would never find their way back into the world.

[page 1839]
next_page=1840
text=Alexstrasza, the Lifebinder, placed a single, enchanted acorn within the heart of the Well of Eternity. The acorn, activated by the potent, magical waters, sprung to life as a colossal tree. The mighty tree's roots grew from the Well's waters, and its verdant canopy seemed to scrape the roof of the sky.

[page 1840]
next_page=1841
text=The immense tree would be an everlasting symbol of the night elves' bond with nature, and its life-giving energies would extend out to heal the rest of the world over time. The night elves' gave their World Tree the new name Nordrassil, which meant "crown of the heavens" in their native tongue.

[page 1841]
next_page=1842
text=Nozdormu, the Timeless, placed an enchantment upon the World Tree to ensure that as long as the colossal tree stood, the night elves would never age or fall prey to sickness or disease.

[page 1842]
next_page=1843
text=Ysera, the Dreamer, also placed an enchantment upon the World Tree by linking it to her own realm, the ethereal dimension known as the Emerald Dream. The Emerald Dream, a vast, ever-changing spirit world, existed outside the boundaries of the physical world. From the Dream, Ysera regulated the ebb and flow of nature and the evolutionary path of the world itself.

[page 1843]
text=The night elf druids, including Malfurion himself, were bound to the Dream through the World Tree. As part of the mystical pact, the druids agreed to sleep for centuries at a time so that their spirits could roam the infinite paths of Ysera's Dreamways. Though the druids were grieved at the prospect of losing so many years of their lives to hibernation, they selflessly agreed to uphold their bargain with Ysera.

[page 1844]
next_page=1845
text=As the centuries passed, the night elves' new society grew strong and expanded throughout the budding forest that they came to call Ashenvale. Many of the creatures and species that were abundant before the Great Sundering, such as furbolgs and quilboars, reappeared and flourished in the land. Under the druids' benevolent leadership, the night elves enjoyed an era of unprecedented peace and tranquility under the stars.

[page 1845]
next_page=1846
text=However, many of the original Highborne survivors grew restless. Like Illidan before them, they fell victim to the withdrawal that came from the loss of their coveted magics. They were tempted to tap the energies of the Well of Eternity and exult in their magical practices. Dath'Remar, the brash, outspoken leader of the Highborne, began to mock the druids publicly, calling them cowards for refusing to wield the magic that he said was theirs by right.

[page 1846]
next_page=1847
text=Malfurion and the druids dismissed Dath'Remar's arguments and warned the Highborne that any use of magic would be punishable by death. In an insolent and ill-fated attempt to convince the druids to rescind their law, Dath'Remar and his followers unleashed a terrible magical storm upon Ashenvale.

[page 1847]
next_page=1848
text=The druids could not bring themselves to put so many of their kin to death, so they decided to exile the reckless Highborne from their lands. Dath'Remar and his followers, glad to be rid of their conservative cousins at last, boarded a number of specially crafted ships and set sail upon the seas. Though none of them knew what awaited them beyond the waters of the raging Maelstrom, they were eager to establish their own homeland, where they could practice their coveted magics with impunity.

[page 1848]
text=The Highborne, or Quel'dorei, as Azshara had named them in ages past, would eventually set shore upon the eastern land men would call Lordaeron. They planned to build their own magical kingdom, Quel'Thalas, and reject the night elves' precepts of moon worship and nocturnal activity. Forever after, they would embrace the sun and be known only as the high elves.

[page 1849]
next_page=1850
text=With the departure of their wayward cousins, the night elves turned their attention back to the safekeeping of their enchanted homeland. The druids, sensing that their time of hibernation was drawing near, prepared to sleep and leave their loved ones and families behind.

[page 1850]
next_page=1851
text=Tyrande, who had become the High Priestess of Elune, asked her love, Malfurion, not to leave her for Ysera's Emerald Dream. But Malfurion, honor bound to enter the changing Dreamways, bid the priestess farewell and swore that they would never be apart so long as they held true to their love.

[page 1851]
next_page=1852
text=Left alone to protect Kalimdor from the dangers of the new world, Tyrande assembled a powerful fighting force from amongst her night elf sisters. The fearless, highly trained warrior women who pledged themselves to Kalimdor's defense became known as the Sentinels. Though they preferred to patrol the shadowy forests of Ashenvale on their own, they had many allies upon which they could call in times of urgency.

[page 1852]
next_page=1853
text=The demigod Cenarius remained nearby in the Moonglades of Mount Hyjal. His sons, known as the Keepers of the Grove, kept close watch on the night elves and regularly helped the Sentinels maintain peace in the land. Even Cenarius' shy daughters, the dryads, appeared in the open with increasing frequency.

[page 1853]
text=The task of policing Ashenvale kept Tyrande busy, but without Malfurion at her side, she knew little joy. As the long centuries passed while the druids slept, her fears of a second demonic invasion grew. She could not shake the unnerving feeling that the Burning Legion might still be out there, beyond the Great Dark of the sky, plotting its revenge upon the night elves and the world of Azeroth.

[page 1854]
next_page=1855
text=The high elves, led by Dath'Remar, left Kalimdor behind them and challenged the storms of the Maelstrom. Their fleets wandered the wreckage of the world for many long years, and they discovered mysteries and lost kingdoms along their sojourn. Dath'Remar, who had taken the name Sunstrider (or "he who walks the day"), sought out places of considerable ley power upon which to build a new homeland for his people.

[page 1855]
next_page=1856
text=His fleet finally landed on the beaches of the kingdom men would later call Lordaeron. Forging inland, the high elves founded a settlement within the tranquil Tirisfal Glades. After a few years, many of them began to go mad. It was theorized that something evil slept beneath that particular part of the world, but the rumors were never proven to be true. The high elves packed up their encampment and moved northward towards another land rich with ley energies.

[page 1856]
next_page=1857
text=As the high elves crossed the rugged, mountainous lands of Lordaeron, their journey became more perilous. Since they were effectively cut off from the life-giving energies of the Well of Eternity, many of them fell ill from the frigid climate or died from starvation. The most disconcerting change, however, was the fact that they were no longer immortal or immune to the elements.

[page 1857]
next_page=1858
text=They also shrank somewhat in height, and their skin lost its characteristic violet hue. Despite their hardships, they encountered many wondrous creatures that had never been seen in Kalimdor. They also found tribes of primitive humans who hunted throughout the ancient forestlands. However, the direst threat they encountered were the voracious and cunning forest trolls of Zul'Aman.

[page 1858]
next_page=1859
text=These moss-skinned trolls could regenerate lost limbs and heal grievous physical injuries, but they proved to be a barbaric, evil race. The Amani empire stretched across most of northern Lordaeron, and the trolls fought hard to keep unwanted strangers from their borders. The elves developed a deep loathing for the vicious trolls and killed them on sight whenever they were encountered.

[page 1859]
next_page=1860
text=After many long years, the high elves finally found a land which was reminiscent of Kalimdor. Deep within the northern forests of the continent, they founded the kingdom of Quel'Thalas and vowed to create a mighty empire which would dwarf that of their Kaldorei cousins. Unfortunately they soon learned that Quel'Thalas was founded upon an ancient troll city that the trolls still held to be sacred. Almost immediately, the trolls began to attack the elven settlements en masse.

[page 1860]
next_page=1861
text=The stubborn elves, unwilling to give up their new land, utilized the magics which they had gleaned from the Well of Eternity and kept the savage trolls at bay. Under Dath'Remar's leadership, they were able to defeat the Amani warbands that outnumbered them ten to one. Some elves, wary of the Kaldorei's ancient warnings, felt that their use of magic might possibly draw the attention of the banished Burning Legion.

[page 1861]
next_page=1862
text=Therefore, they decided to mask their lands within a protective barrier which would still allow them to work their enchantments. They constructed a series of monolithic Runestones at various points around Quel'Thalas which marked the boundaries of the magic barrier. The Runestones not only masked the elves' magic from extra-dimensional threats, but helped to frighten away the superstitious troll warbands as well.

[page 1862]
next_page=1863
text=As time wore on, Quel'Thalas became a shining monument to the high elves' efforts and magical prowess. Its beauteous palaces were crafted in the same architectural style as the ancient halls of Kalimdor, yet they were interwoven with the natural topography of the land. Quel'Thalas had become the shining jewel that the elves had longed to create.

[page 1863]
next_page=1864
text=The Convocation of Silvermoon was founded as the ruling power over Quel'Thalas, though the Sunstrider Dynasty maintained a modicum of political power. Comprised of seven of the greatest high elf lords, the Convocation worked to secure the safety of the elven lands and people. Surrounded by their protective barrier, the high elves remained unmoved by the old warnings of the Kaldorei and continued to use magic flagrantly in almost all aspects of their lives.

[page 1864]
text=For nearly four thousand years the high elves lived peacefully within the secluded safety of their kingdom. Nevertheless, the vindictive trolls were not so easily defeated. They plotted and schemed in the depths of the forests and waited for the numbers of their warbands to grow. Finally, a mighty troll army charged out from the shadowy forests and once again laid siege to the shining spires of Quel'Thalas.

[page 1865]
next_page=1866
text=As the high elves fought for their lives against the trolls' fierce onslaught, the scattered, nomadic humans of Lordaeron fought to consolidate their own tribal lands. The tribes of early humanity raided each other's settlements with little heed for racial unification or honor.

[page 1866]
next_page=1867
text=Yet one tribe, known as the Arathi, saw that the trolls were becoming too great a threat to ignore. The Arathi wished to bring all of the tribes under its rule so that they could provide a unified front against the troll warbands.

[page 1867]
next_page=1868
text=Over the course of six years, the cunning Arathi outmaneuvered and outfought the rival tribes. After every victory, the Arathi offered peace and equality to the conquered people

[page 1868]
next_page=1869
text=Confident that they could hold their own against the troll warbands or even the reclusive elves if need be, the Arathi warlords decided to construct a mighty fortress city in the southern regions of Lordaeron. The city-state, named Strom, became the capital of the Arathi nation, Arathor. As Arathor prospered, humans from all over the vast continent traveled south to the protection and safety of Strom.

[page 1869]
next_page=1870
text=United under one banner, the human tribes developed a strong, optimistic culture. Thoradin, the king of Arathor, knew that the mysterious elves in the northlands were under constant siege by the trolls, but refused to risk the safety of his people in defense of reclusive strangers. Many months passed as rumors of the elves' supposed defeat trickled down from the north. It was only when weary ambassadors from Quel'Thalas reached Strom that Thoradin realized how great the troll threat truly was.

[page 1870]
next_page=1871
text=The elves informed Thoradin that the troll armies were vast and that once the trolls had destroyed Quel'Thalas, they would move on to attack the southlands. The desperate elves, in dire need of military aid, hastily agreed to teach certain select humans to wield magic in exchange for their help against the warbands.

[page 1871]
next_page=1872
text=Thoradin, distrustful of any magic, agreed to aid the elves out of necessity. Almost immediately, elven sorcerers arrived in Arathor and began to instruct a group of humans in the ways of magic.

[page 1872]
next_page=1873
text=The elves found that although humans were innately clumsy in their handling of magic, they possessed a startling natural affinity for it. One hundred men were taught the very basics of the elves' magical secrets: no more than was absolutely necessary to combat the trolls. Convinced that their human students were ready to aid in the struggle, the elves left Strom and traveled north alongside the mighty armies of King Thoradin.

[page 1873]
next_page=1874
text=The united elf and human armies clashed against the overwhelming troll warbands at the foot of the Alterac Mountains. The battle lasted for many days, but the unflagging armies of Arathor never tired or gave an inch of ground before the troll onslaught. The elven lords deemed that the time had come to release the powers of their magic upon the enemy.

[page 1874]
next_page=1875
text=The hundred human magi and a multitude of elven sorcerers called down the fury of the heavens and set the troll armies ablaze. The elemental fires prevented the trolls from regenerating their wounds and burned their tortured forms from the inside out.

[page 1875]
text=As the troll armies broke and attempted to flee, Thoradin's armies ran them down and slaughtered every last one of their soldiers. The trolls would never fully recover from their defeat, and history would never see the trolls rise as one nation again. Assured that Quel'Thalas was saved from destruction, the elves made a pledge of loyalty and friendship to the nation of Arathor and to the bloodline of its king, Thoradin. Humans and elves would nurture peaceful relations for ages to come.
text=

[page 1876]
next_page=1877
text=With the absence of trolls in the northlands, the elves of Quel'Thalas bent their efforts towards rebuilding their glorious homeland. The victorious armies of Arathor returned home to southlands of Strom.

[page 1877]
next_page=1878
text=The human society of Arathor grew and prospered, yet Thoradin, fearful that his kingdom would splinter apart if it overextended itself, maintained that Strom was the center of the Arathorian empire. After many peaceful years of growth and commerce, mighty Thoradin died of old age, leaving Arathor's younger generation free to expand the empire beyond the lands of Strom.

[page 1878]
next_page=1879
text=The original hundred magi, who were tutored in the ways of magic by the elves, expanded their powers and studied the mystic disciplines of spell-weaving in much greater detail. These magi, initially chosen for their strong wills and noble spirits, had always practiced their magic with care and responsibility

[page 1879]
next_page=1880
text=These younger magicians began to practice magic for personal gain rather than out of any responsibility towards their fellows.

[page 1880]
next_page=1881
text=As the empire grew and expanded into new lands, the young magicians also spread out into the southlands. Wielding their mystical powers, the magicians protected their brethren from the wild creatures of the land and made it possible for new city-states to be constructed in the wilderness. Yet, as their powers grew, the magicians became ever more conceited and isolated from the rest of society.

[page 1881]
next_page=1882
text=The second Arathorian city-state of Dalaran was founded in the lands north of Strom. Many fledgling wizards left the restraining confines of Strom behind and traveled to Dalaran, where they hoped to use their new powers with greater freedom. These magicians used their skills to build up the enchanted spires of Dalaran and reveled in the pursuit of their studies.

[page 1882]
next_page=1883
text=The citizens of Dalaran tolerated the magicians' endeavors and built up a bustling economy under the protection of their magic-using defenders. Yet, as more and more magicians practiced their arts, the fabric of reality around Dalaran began to weaken and tear.

[page 1883]
next_page=1884
text=The sinister agents of the Burning Legion, who had been banished when the Well of Eternity collapsed, were lured back into the world by the heedless spellcasting of the magicians of Dalaran. Though these relatively weak demons did not appear in force, they did sew considerable confusion and chaos within the streets of Dalaran.

[page 1884]
next_page=1885
text=Most of these demonic encounters were isolated events, and the ruling Magocrats did what they could to keep such events hidden from the public. The most powerful magicians were sent to capture the elusive demons, but they often found themselves hopelessly outmatched by the lone agents of the mighty Legion.

[page 1885]
next_page=1886
text=After a few months the superstitious peasantry began to suspect that their sorcerous rulers were hiding something terrible from them. Rumors of revolution began to sweep through the streets of Dalaran as the paranoid citizenry questioned the motives and practices of the magicians they had once admired. The Magocrats, fearing that the peasants would revolt and that Strom would take action against them, turned to the only group they felt would understand their particular problem: the elves.

[page 1886]
next_page=1887
text=Upon hearing the Magocrats' news of demonic activity in Dalaran, the elves quickly dispatched their mightiest wizards to the human lands. The elven wizards studied the energy currents in Dalaran and made detailed reports of all demonic activity that they beheld. They concluded that although there were only a few demons loose in the world, the Legion itself would remain a dire threat so long as humans continued to wield the forces of magic.

[page 1887]
next_page=1888
text=The Council of Silvermoon, which ruled over the elves of Quel'Thalas, entered into a secret pact with the Magocrat lords of Dalaran. The elves told the Magocrats about the history of ancient Kalimdor and of the Burning Legion, a history which still threatened the world. They informed the humans that so long as they used magic, they would need to protect their citizenry from the malicious agents of the Legion.

[page 1888]
next_page=1889
text=The Magocrats proposed the notion of empowering a single mortal champion who would utilize their powers in order to fight a never-ending secret war against the Legion. It was stressed that the majority of mankind could never know about the Guardians or the threat of the Legion for fear that they would riot in fear and paranoia. The elves agreed to the proposal and founded a secret society that would watch over the selection of the Guardian and help to stem the rise of chaos in the world.

[page 1889]
next_page=1890
text=The society held its secret meetings in the shadowed Tirisfal Glades, where the high elves had first settled in Lordaeron. Thus, they named the secret sect the Guardians of Tirisfal. The mortal champions who were chosen to be Guardians were imbued with incredible powers of both elven and human magic. Though there would only ever be one Guardian at a time, they held such vast power that they could single-handedly fight back the Legion's agents wherever they were found in the world.

[page 1890]
next_page=1891
text=The Guardian power was so great that only the Council of Tirisfal was allowed to choose potential successors to the mantle of Guardianship. Whenever a Guardian grew too old, or wearied of the secret war against chaos, the Council chose a new champion, and under controlled conditions, formally channeled the Guardian power into its new agent.

[page 1891]
text=As the generations passed, Guardians defended the masses of humanity from the invisible threat of the Burning Legion throughout the lands of Arathor and Quel'Thalas. Arathor grew and prospered while the use of magic spread throughout the empire. Meanwhile, the Guardians kept careful watch for signs of demonic activity.

[page 1892]
next_page=1893
text=In the ancient times, after the Titans departed Azeroth, their children, known as the earthen, continued to shape and guard the deep recesses of the world. The earthen were largely unconcerned with the affairs of the surface-dwelling races and longed only to plumb the dark depths of the earth.

[page 1893]
next_page=1894
text=When the world was sundered by the Well of Eternity's implosion, the earthen were deeply affected. Reeling with the pain of the earth itself, the earthen lost much of their identity and sealed themselves within the stone chambers where they were first created. Uldaman, Uldum, Ulduar... these were the names of the ancient Titan cities where the earthen first took shape and form. Buried deep beneath the world, the earthen rested in peace for nearly eight thousand years.

[page 1894]
next_page=1895
text=Though it is unclear what awakened them, the earthen sealed within Uldaman eventually arose from their self-imposed slumber. These earthen found that they had changed significantly during their hibernation. Their rocky hides had softened and become smooth skin, and their powers over stone and earth had waned. They had become mortal creatures.

[page 1895]
next_page=1896
text=Calling themselves dwarves, the last of the earthen left the halls of Uldaman and ventured out into the waking world. Still lulled by the safety and wonders of the deep places, they founded a vast kingdom under the highest mountain in the land.

[page 1896]
next_page=1897
text=They named their land Khaz Modan, or "Mountain of Khaz", in honor of the Titan shaper, Khaz'goroth. Constructing an altar for their Titan father, the dwarves crafted a mighty forge within the heart of the mountain. Thus, the city that grew around the forge would be called Ironforge ever after.

[page 1897]
text=The dwarves, by nature fascinated with shaping gems and stone, set out to mine the surrounding mountains for riches and precious minerals. Content with their labors under the world, the dwarves remained isolated from the affairs of their surface-dwelling neighbors.

[page 1906]
next_page=1907
text=As the politics and rivalries of the seven human nations waxed and waned, the line of Guardians kept its constant vigil against chaos. There were many Guardians over the years, but only one ever held the magical powers of Tirisfal at any given time. One of the last Guardians of the age distinguished herself as a mighty warrior against the shadow.

[page 1907]
next_page=1908
text=Aegwynn, a fiery human girl, won the approbation of the Order and was given the mantle of Guardianship. Aegwynn vigorously worked to hunt down and eradicate demons wherever she found them, but she often questioned the authority of the male-dominated Council of Tirisfal.

[page 1908]
next_page=1909
text=She believed that the ancient elves and the elderly men who presided over the council were too rigid in their thinking and not farsighted enough to put a decisive end to the conflict against chaos. Impatient with lengthy discussion and debate, she yearned to prove herself worthy to her peers and superiors, and as a result frequently chose valor over wisdom in crucial situations.

[page 1909]
next_page=1910
text=As her mastery over the cosmic power of Tirisfal grew, Aegwynn became aware of a number of powerful demons that stalked the icy northern continent of Northrend. Traveling to the distant north, Aegwynn tracked the demons into the mountains. There, she found that the demons were hunting one of the last surviving dragonflights and draining the ancient creatures of their innate magic.

[page 1910]
next_page=1911
text=The mighty dragons, who had fled from the ever-advancing march of mortal societies, found themselves too evenly matched against the dark magics of the Legion. Aegwynn confronted the demons, and with help from the noble dragons, eradicated them. Yet, as the last demon was banished from the mortal world, a great storm erupted throughout the north.

[page 1911]
next_page=1912
text= An enormous dark visage appeared in the sky above Northrend. Sargeras, the demon king and lord of the Burning Legion, appeared before Aegwynn and bristled with hellish energy. He informed the young Guardian that the time of Tirisfal was about to come to an end and that the world would soon bow before the onslaught of the Legion.

[page 1912]
next_page=1913
text=The proud Aegwynn, believing herself to be a match for the menacing god, unleashed her powers against Sargeras' avatar. With disconcerting ease, Aegwynn battered the demonlord with her powers and succeeded in killing his physical shell. Fearing that Sargeras' spirit would linger on, the na� Aegwynn locked the ruined husk of his body within one of the ancient halls of Kalimdor that had been blasted to the bottom of the sea when the Well of Eternity collapsed.

[page 1913]
text=Aegwynn would never know that she had done exactly as Sargeras had planned. She had inadvertently sealed the fate of the mortal world, for Sargeras, at the time of his corporeal death, had transferred his spirit into Aegwynn's weakened body. Unbeknownst to the young Guardian, Sargeras would remain cloaked within the darkest recesses of her soul for many long years.

[page 1914]
next_page=1915
text=The dwarves of Ironforge Mountain lived in peace for many long centuries. However, their society grew too large within the confines of their mountain cities. Though the mighty High King, Modimus Anvilmar, ruled over all dwarves with justice and wisdom, three powerful factions had arisen amongst the dwarven society.

[page 1915]
next_page=1916
text=The Bronzebeard clan, ruled by Thane Madoran Bronzebeard, held close ties to the High King and stood as the traditional defenders of Ironforge Mountain. The Wildhammer clan, ruled by Thane Khardros Wildhammer, inhabited the foothills and crags around the base of the mountain and sought to gain more control within the city.

[page 1916]
next_page=1917
text=The third faction, the Dark Iron clan, was ruled by the sorcerer-thane Thaurissan. The Dark Irons hid within the deepest shadows under the mountain and plotted against both their Bronzebeard and the Wildhammer cousins.

[page 1917]
next_page=1918
text=For a time the three factions kept a tenuous peace, but tensions erupted when High King Anvilmar passed away from old age. The three ruling clans went to war for control of Ironforge itself. The dwarf civil war raged under the earth for many years. Eventually the Bronzebeards, who had the largest standing army, banished the Dark Irons and Wildhammers from under the mountain.

[page 1918]
next_page=1919
text=Khardros and his Wildhammer warriors traveled north through the barrier gates of Dun Algaz, and they founded their own kingdom within the distant peak of Grim Batol. There, the Wildhammers thrived and rebuilt their stores of treasure. Thaurissan and his Dark Irons did not fare as well. Humiliated and enraged by their defeat, they vowed revenge against Ironforge. Leading his people far to the south, Thaurissan founded a city (which he named after himself) within the beautiful Redridge Mountains.

[page 1919]
next_page=1920
text=Prosperity and the passing of years did little to ease the Dark Iron's rancor toward their cousins. Thaurissan and his sorceress wife, Modgud, launched a two-pronged assault against both Ironforge and Grim Batol. The Dark Irons were intent on claiming all of Khaz Modan for their own.

[page 1920]
next_page=1921
text=The Dark Iron armies smashed against their cousins' strongholds and very nearly took both kingdoms. However, Madoran Bronzebeard ultimately led his clan to a decisive victory over Thaurissan's sorcerous army. Thaurissan and his servants fled back to the safety of their city, unaware of the events transpiring at Grim Batol, where Modgud's army would fare no better against Khardros and his Wildhammer warriors.

[page 1921]
next_page=1922
text=As she confronted the enemy warriors, Modgud used her powers to strike fear into their hearts. Shadows moved at her command, and dark things crawled up from the depths of the earth to stalk the Wildhammers in their own halls. Eventually Modgud broke through the gates and laid siege to the fortress itself. The Wildhammers fought desperately, Khardros himself wading through the roiling masses to slay the sorceress queen.

[page 1922]
next_page=1923
text=With their queen lost, the Dark Irons fled before the fury of the Wildhammers. They raced south toward their king's stronghold, only to meet the armies of Ironforge, which had come to aid Grim Batol. Crushed between two armies, the remaining Dark Iron forces were utterly destroyed.

[page 1923]
next_page=1924
text=The combined armies of Ironforge and Grim Batol then turned south, intent on destroying Thaurissan and his Dark Irons once and for all. They had not gone far when Thaurissan's fury resulted in a spell of cataclysmic proportions. Seeking to summon a supernatural minion that would ensure his victory, Thaurissan called upon the ancient powers sleeping beneath the world. To his shock, and ultimately his doom, the creature that emerged was more terrible than any nightmare he could have imagined.

[page 1924]
next_page=1925
text=Ragnaros the Firelord, immortal lord of all fire elementals, had been banished by the Titans when the world was young. Now, freed by Thaurissan's call, Ragnaros erupted into being once again. Ragnaros' apocalyptic rebirth into Azeroth shattered the Redridge Mountains and created a raging volcano at the center of the devastation.

[page 1925]
next_page=1926
text=The volcano, known as Blackrock Mountain, was bordered by the Searing Gorge to the north and the Burning Steppes to the south. Though Thaurissan was killed by the forces he had unleashed, his surviving brethren were ultimately enslaved by Ragnaros and his elementals. They remain within the depths of Blackrock to this day.

[page 1926]
next_page=1927
text=Witnessing the horrific devastation and the fires spreading across the southern mountains, King Madoran and King Khardros halted their armies and hastily turned back towards their kingdoms, unwilling to face the awesome wrath of Ragnaros.

[page 1927]
next_page=1928
text=The Bronzebeards returned to Ironforge and rebuilt their glorious city. The Wildhammers also returned home to Grim Batol. However, the death of the Modgud had left an evil stain on the mountain fortress, and the Wildhammers found it uninhabitable.

[page 1928]
next_page=1929
text= They were bitter in their hearts over the loss of their beloved home. King Bronzebeard offered the Wildhammers a place to live within the borders of Ironforge, but the Wildhammers steadfastly refused. Khardros took his people north towards the lands of Lordaeron. Settling within the lush forests of the Hinterlands, the Wildhammers crafted the city of Aerie Peak, where the Wildhammers grew closer to nature and even bonded with the mighty gryphons of the area.

[page 1929]
next_page=1930
text=Seeking to retain relations and trade with their cousins, the dwarves of Ironforge constructed two massive arches, the Thandol Span, to bridge the gap between Khaz Modan and Lordaeron. Bolstered by mutual trade, the two kingdoms prospered. After the deaths of Madoran and Khardros, their sons jointly commissioned two great statues in honor of their fathers.

[page 1930]
next_page=1931
text=The two statues would stand guard over the pass into the southlands, which had become volcanic in the wake of Ragnaros' scorching presence. They served as both a warning to all who would attack the dwarven kingdoms, and as a reminder of what price the Dark Irons paid for their crimes.

[page 1931]
text=The two kingdoms retained close ties for some years, but the Wildhammers were much changed by the horrors they witnessed at Grim Batol. They took to living above ground on the slopes of Aerie Peak, instead of carving a vast kingdom within the mountain. The ideological differences between the two remaining dwarven clans eventually led to their parting of ways.

[page 1942]
next_page=1943
text=Around the time of Medivh's birth on Azeroth, Kil'jaeden the Deceiver sat and brooded amongst his followers within the Twisting Nether. The cunning demonlord, under orders of his master, Sargeras, was plotting the Burning Legion's second invasion of Azeroth.

[page 1943]
next_page=1944
text=This time he would not allow any mistakes. Kil'jaeden surmised that he needed a new force to weaken Azeroth's defenses before the Legion even set foot upon the world. If the mortal races, such as the night elves and dragons, were forced to contend with a new threat, they would be too weak to pose any real resistance when the Legion's true invasion arrived.

[page 1944]
next_page=1945
text=It was at this time that Kil'jaeden discovered the lush world of Draenor floating peacefully within the Great Dark Beyond. Home to the shamanistic, clan-based orcs and the peaceful draenei, Draenor was as idyllic as it was vast.

[page 1945]
next_page=1946
text=The noble orc clans roamed the open prairies and hunted for sport, while the inquisitive draenei built crude cities within the world's towering cliffs and peaks. Kil'jaeden knew that Draenor's denizens had great potential to serve the Burning Legion if they could be cultivated properly.

[page 1946]
next_page=1947
text=Of the two races, Kil'jaeden saw that the warrior orcs were more susceptible to the Legion's corruption. He enthralled the elder orc shaman, Ner'zhul, in much the same way that Sargeras brought Queen Azshara under his control in ages past. Using the cunning shaman as his conduit, the demon spread battle lust and savagery throughout the orc clans.

[page 1947]
next_page=1948
text=Before long, the spiritual race was transformed into a bloodthirsty people. Kil'jaeden then urged Ner'zhul and his people to take the last step: to give themselves over entirely to the pursuit of death and war. Yet the old shaman, sensing that his people would be enslaved to hatred forever, somehow resisted the demon's command.

[page 1948]
next_page=1949
text=Frustrated by Ner'zhul's resistance, Kil'jaeden searched for another orc who would deliver his people into the Legion's hands. The clever demonlord finally found the willing disciple he sought - Ner'zhul's ambitious apprentice, Gul'dan. Kil'jaeden promised Gul'dan untold power in exchange for his utter obedience.

[page 1949]
next_page=1950
text=The young orc became an avid student of demonic magic and developed into the most powerful mortal warlock in history. He taught other young orcs the arcane arts and strove to eradicate the orcs' shamanistic traditions. Gul'dan showed a new brand of magic to his brethren, a terrible new power that reeked of doom.

[page 1950]
text=Kil'jaeden, seeking to tighten his hold over the orcs, helped Gul'dan found the Shadow Council, a secretive sect that manipulated the clans and spread the use of warlock magics throughout Draenor. As more and more orcs began to wield warlock magics, the gentle fields and streams of Draenor began to blacken and fade. Over time, the vast prairies the orcs had called home for generations withered away, leaving only red barren soil. The demon energies were slowly killing the world.

[page 1951]
next_page=1952
text=The orcs became increasingly aggressive under the secret control of Gul'dan and his Shadow Council. They constructed massive arenas where the orcs honed their warrior skills in trials of combat and death. During this period, a few clan chieftains spoke out against the growing depravity in their race.

[page 1952]
next_page=1953
text=One such chieftain, Durotan of the Frostwolf clan, warned against the orcs' losing themselves to hate and fury. His words fell on deaf ears, however, as stronger chieftains such as Grom Hellscream of the Warsong clan stepped forward to champion the new age of warfare and dominance.

[page 1953]
next_page=1954
text=Kil'jaeden knew that the orc clans were almost ready, but he needed to be certain of their ultimate loyalty. In secret, he had the Shadow Council summon Mannoroth the Destructor, the living vessel of destruction and rage. Gul'dan called the clan chieftains together and convinced them that drinking Mannoroth's raging blood would make them utterly invincible.
text=

[page 1954]
next_page=1955
text= Led by Grom Hellscream, all the clan chiefs except Durotan drank and thereby sealed their fates as slaves to the Burning Legion. Empowered by Mannoroth's rage, the chieftains unwittingly extended this subjugation to their unsuspecting brethren.

[page 1955]
next_page=1956
text=Consumed with the curse of this new bloodlust, the orcs sought to unleash their fury on any who stood before them. Sensing that the time had come, Gul'dan united the warring clans into a single unstoppable Horde.

[page 1956]
next_page=1957
text=However, knowing that the various chieftains like Hellscream and Orgrim Doomhammer would vie for overall supremacy, Gul'dan set up a puppet warchief to rule over this new Horde. Blackhand the Destroyer, a particularly depraved and vicious orc warlord, was chosen to be Gul'dan's puppet. Under Blackhand's command, the Horde set out to test itself against the simple draenei.

[page 1957]
next_page=1958
text=Over the course of a few months, the Horde eradicated nearly every draenei living on Draenor. Only a scattered handful of survivors managed to evade the orcs' awesome wrath. Flushed with victory, Gul'dan reveled in the Horde's power and might. Still, he knew that without any enemies to fight, the Horde would consume itself with endless infighting in its unstoppable appetite for glorious slaughter.

[page 1958]
text=Kil'jaeden knew that the Horde was finally prepared. The orcs had become the Burning Legion's greatest weapon. The cunning demon shared his knowledge with his waiting master, and Sargeras agreed that the time of his revenge had finally come.

[page 1959]
next_page=1960
text=As Kil'jaeden prepared the Horde for its invasion of Azeroth, Medivh continued to fight for his soul against Sargeras. King Llane, the noble monarch of Stormwind, grew wary of the darkness which seemed to taint the spirit of his former friend.

[page 1960]
next_page=1961
text=King Llane shared his concerns with Anduin Lothar, the last descendent of the Arathi bloodline, whom he named his lieutenant-at-arms. Even so, neither man could have imagined that Medivh's slow descent into madness would bring about the horrors that were to come.

[page 1961]
next_page=1962
text=As a final incentive, Sargeras promised to bestow great power upon Gul'dan if he agreed to lead the Horde to Azeroth. Through Medivh, Sargeras told the warlock that he could become a living god if he found the undersea tomb where the Guardian Aegwynn had placed Sargeras' crippled body nearly a thousand years before.

[page 1962]
next_page=1963
text= Gul'dan agreed and decided that once the denizens of Azeroth were beaten, he would find the legendary tomb and claim his reward. Assured that the Horde would serve his purposes, Sargeras ordered the invasion to begin.

[page 1963]
next_page=1964
text=Through a joint effort, Medivh and the warlocks of the Shadow Council opened the dimensional gateway known as the Dark Portal. This portal bridged the distance between Azeroth and Draenor, and it was large enough that armies might pass through it. Gul'dan dispatched orc scouts through the portal to survey the lands which they would conquer. The returning scouts assured the Shadow Council that the world of Azeroth was ripe for the taking.

[page 1964]
next_page=1965
text=Still convinced that Gul'dan's corruption would destroy his people, Durotan spoke out against the warlocks once more. The brave warrior claimed that warlocks were destroying the purity of the orcish spirit and that this reckless invasion would be their doom. Gul'dan, unable to risk killing such a popular hero, was forced to exile Durotan and his Frostwolf Clan into the far reaches of this new world.

[page 1965]
next_page=1966
text=After the exiled Frostwolves charged through the portal, only a few orc clans followed. These orcs quickly set up a base of operations within the Black Morass, a dark and swampy area far to the east of the kingdom of Stormwind. As the orcs began to branch out and explore the new lands, they came into immediate conflict with the human defenders of Stormwind.
text=

[page 1966]
next_page=1967
text=Though these skirmishes usually ended quickly, they did much to illustrate the weaknesses and strengths of both rival species. Llane and Lothar were never able to gather accurate data of the orcs' numbers and could only guess at how great a force they would have to contend with.

[page 1967]
next_page=1968
text=After a few years the majority of the orcish Horde had crossed into Azeroth, and Gul'dan deemed that the time for the primary strike against humanity had come. The Horde launched its full might against the unsuspecting kingdom of Stormwind.

[page 1968]
next_page=1969
text=As the forces of Azeroth and the Horde clashed across the kingdom, internal conflicts began to take their toll on both armies. King Llane, who believed the bestial orcs to be incapable of conquering Azeroth, contemptuously held his position at his capital of Stormwind. However, Sir Lothar became convinced that the battle should be taken directly to the enemy, and he was forced to choose between his convictions and his loyalty to the king.

[page 1969]
next_page=1970
text=Choosing to follow his instincts, Lothar stormed Medivh's tower-fortress of Karazhan with the help of the wizard's young apprentice, Khadgar. Khadgar and Lothar succeeded in vanquishing the possessed Guardian, whom they confirmed to be the source of the conflict.

[page 1970]
next_page=1971
text=By killing Medivh's body, Lothar and the young apprentice inadvertently banished the spirit of Sargeras to the abyss. As a consequence, the pure, virtuous spirit of Medivh was also allowed to live on... and wander the astral plane for many years to come.

[page 1971]
next_page=1972
text=Although Medivh had been defeated, the Horde continued to dominate the defenders of Stormwind. As the Horde's victory drew nearer, Orgrim Doomhammer, one of the greatest orc chieftains, began to see the depraved corruption that had spread throughout the clans since their time in Draenor.

[page 1972]
next_page=1973
text=His old comrade, Durotan, returned from exile and warned him yet again of Gul'dan's treachery. In speedy retribution, Gul'dan's assassins murdered Durotan and his family, leaving only his infant son alive. Unknown to Doomhammer was the fact that Durotan's infant son was found by the human officer, Aedelas Blackmoore, and taken as a slave.
text=
text=That infant orc would one day rise to become the greatest leader his people would ever know.

[page 1973]
next_page=1974
text=Incensed by Durotan's death, Orgrim set out to free the Horde from demonic corruption and ultimately assumed the role of warchief of the Horde by killing Gul'dan's corrupt puppet, Blackhand. Under his decisive leadership the relentless Horde finally laid siege to Stormwind Keep.

[page 1974]
next_page=1975
text=King Llane had severely underestimated the might of the Horde, and he watched helplessly as his kingdom fell to the green-skinned invaders. Ultimately King Llane was assassinated by one of the Shadow Council's finest killers: the half-orc, Garona.

[page 1975]
text=Lothar and his warriors, returning home from Karazhan, hoped to stem the loss of life and save their once-glorious homeland. Instead, they returned too late and found their beloved kingdom in smoking ruins. The orcish Horde continued to ravage the countryside and claimed the surrounding lands for its own. Forced into hiding, Lothar and his companions swore a grim oath to reclaim their homeland at any cost.

[page 1976]
next_page=1977
text=Lord Lothar rallied the remnants of Azeroth's armies after their defeat at Stormwind Keep, and then launched a massive exodus across the sea to the northern kingdom of Lordaeron. Convinced that the Horde would overcome all of humanity if left unchecked, the leaders of the seven human nations met and agreed to unite in what would become known as the Alliance of Lordaeron.

[page 1977]
next_page=1978
text=For the first time in nearly three thousand years, the disparate nations of Arathor were once again united under a common banner. Appointed as Supreme Commander of the Alliance forces, Lord Lothar prepared his armies for the coming of the Horde.

[page 1978]
next_page=1979
text=Aided by his lieutenants, Uther the Lightbringer, Admiral Daelin Proudmoore, and Turalyon, Lothar was able to convince Lordaeron's demi-human races of the impending threat as well. The Alliance succeeded in gaining the support of the stoic dwarves of Ironforge and a small number of high elves of Quel'Thalas.

[page 1979]
next_page=1980
text=The elves, led at that time by Anasterian Sunstrider, were largely uninterested in the coming conflict. However, they were duty-bound to aid Lothar because he was the last descendent of the Arathi bloodline, which had aided the elves in ages past.

[page 1980]
next_page=1981
text=The Horde, now led by Warchief Doomhammer, brought in ogres from its homeworld of Draenor and conscripted the disenfranchised Amani forest trolls into its fold. Setting out on a massive campaign to overrun the dwarf kingdom of Khaz Modan and the southern reaches of Lordaeron, the Horde effortlessly decimated all opposition.

[page 1981]
next_page=1982
text=The epic battles of the Second War ranged from large-scale naval skirmishes to massive aerial dogfights. Somehow the Horde had unearthed a powerful artifact known as the Demon Soul and used it to enslave the ancient Dragonqueen, Alexstrasza. Threatening to destroy her precious eggs, the Horde forced Alexstrasza to send her grown children to war. The noble red dragons were forced to fight for the Horde, and fight they did.

[page 1982]
next_page=1983
text=The war raged across the continents of Khaz Modan, Lordaeron, and Azeroth itself. As part of its northern campaign, the Horde succeeded in burning down the borderlands of Quel'Thalas, thereby ensuring the elves' final commitment to the Alliance's cause. The greater cities and townships of Lordaeron were razed and devastated by the conflict. Despite the absence of reinforcements and overwhelming odds, Lothar and his allies succeeded in holding their enemies at bay.

[page 1983]
next_page=1984
text=However, during the final days of the Second War, as the Horde's victory over the Alliance seemed almost assured, a terrible feud erupted between the two most powerful orcs on Azeroth. As Doomhammer prepared his final assault against the Capital City of Lordaeron - an assault that would have crushed the last remnants of the Alliance - Gul'dan and his followers abandoned their posts and set out to sea.

[page 1984]
next_page=1985
text=The bewildered Doomhammer, having lost nearly half of his standing forces to Gul'dan's treachery, was forced to pull back and forsake his greatest chance at victory over the Alliance.

[page 1985]
next_page=1986
text=The power-hungry Gul'dan, obsessed with obtaining godhood itself, set out on a desperate search for the undersea Tomb of Sargeras that he believed held the secrets of ultimate power. Having already doomed his fellow orcs to become the slaves of the Burning Legion, Gul'dan thought nothing of his supposed duty to Doomhammer.

[page 1986]
next_page=1987
text=Backed by the Stormreaver and Twilight's Hammer clans, Gul'dan succeeded in raising the Tomb of Sargeras from the sea floor. However, when he opened the ancient, flooded vault, he found only crazed demons awaiting him.

[page 1987]
next_page=1988
text=Seeking to punish the wayward orcs for their costly betrayal, Doomhammer sent his forces to kill Gul'dan and bring the renegades back into the fold. For his recklessness, Gul'dan was torn apart by the maddened demons he had set loose. With their leader dead, the renegade clans quickly fell before Doomhammer's enraged legions.

[page 1988]
next_page=1989
text=Though the rebellion had been quelled, the Horde was unable to recoup the terrible losses it had suffered. Gul'dan's betrayal had afforded the Alliance not only hope, but also time to regroup and retaliate.

[page 1989]
next_page=1990
text=Lord Lothar, seeing that the Horde was fracturing from within, gathered the last of his forces and pushed Doomhammer south, back into the shattered heartland of Stormwind. There, the Alliance forces trapped the retreating Horde within the volcanic fortress of Blackrock Spire. Though Lord Lothar fell in battle at the Spire's base, his lieutenant, Turalyon, rallied the Alliance forces at the eleventh hour and drove the Horde back into the abysmal Swamp of Sorrows.

[page 1990]
next_page=1991
text=Turalyon's forces succeeded in destroying the Dark Portal, the mystical gateway that connected the orcs to their homeworld of Draenor. Cut off from its reinforcements and fractured by infighting, the Horde finally buckled in upon itself and fell before the might of the Alliance.

[page 1991]
text=The scattered orc clans were quickly rounded up and placed within guarded internment camps. Though it seemed that the Horde had been defeated for good, some remained highly skeptical that peace would last. Khadgar, now an Archmage of some renown, convinced the Alliance high command to build the fortress of Nethergarde that would watch over the ruins of the Dark Portal and ensure that there would be no further invasions from Draenor.

[page 2002]
next_page=2003
text=Ner'zhul and his followers entered the Twisting Nether, the ethereal plane that connects all of the worlds scattered throughout the Great Dark Beyond. Unfortunately Kil'jaeden and his demonic minions were waiting for them. Kil'jaeden, who had sworn to take vengeance on Ner'zhul for his prideful defiance, slowly tore the old shaman's body apart, piece by piece.

[page 2003]
next_page=2004
text=Kil'jaeden kept the shaman's spirit alive and intact, thus leaving Ner'zhul painfully aware of his body's gross dismemberment. Though Ner'zhul pleaded with the demon to release his spirit and grant him death, the demon grimly replied that the Blood Pact they had made long ago was still binding, and that Ner'zhul still had a purpose to serve.

[page 2004]
next_page=2005
text=The orcs' failure to conquer the world for the Burning Legion forced Kil'jaeden to create a new army to sew chaos throughout the kingdoms of the Azeroth. This new army could not be allowed to fall prey to the same petty rivalries and infighting that had plagued the Horde. It would have to be merciless and single-minded in its mission. This time, Kil'jaeden could not afford to fail.

[page 2005]
next_page=2006
text=Holding Ner'zhul's spirit helpless in stasis, Kil'jaeden gave him one last chance to serve the Legion or suffer eternal torment. Once again, Ner'zhul recklessly agreed to the demon's pact. Ner'zhul's spirit was placed within a specially crafted block of diamond-hard ice gathered from the far reaches of the Twisting Nether.

[page 2006]
next_page=2007
text=Encased within the frozen cask, Ner'zhul felt his consciousness expand ten thousand-fold. Warped by the demon's chaotic powers, Ner'zhul became a spectral being of unfathomable power. At that moment, the orc known as Ner'zhul was shattered forever, and the Lich King was born.

[page 2007]
next_page=2008
text=Ner'zhul's loyal death knights and Shadowmoon followers were also transformed by the demon's chaotic energies. The wicked spellcasters were ripped apart and remade as skeletal liches. The demons had ensured that even in death, Ner'zhul's followers would serve him unquestioningly.

[page 2008]
next_page=2009
text=When the time was right, Kil'jaeden explained the mission for which he had created the Lich King. Ner'zhul was to spread a plague of death and terror across Azeroth that would snuff out human civilization forever. All those who died from the dreaded plague would arise as the undead, and their spirits would be bound to Ner'zhul's iron will forever.

[page 2009]
next_page=2010
text= Kil'jaeden promised that if Ner'zhul accomplished his dark mission of scouring humanity from the world, he would be freed from his curse and granted a new, healthy body to inhabit.

[page 2010]
next_page=2011
text=Though Ner'zhul was agreeable and seemingly anxious to play his part, Kil'jaeden remained skeptical of his pawn's loyalties. Keeping the Lich King bodiless and trapped within the crystal cask assured his good conduct for the short term, but the demon knew that he would need to keep a watchful eye on him. To this end, Kil'jaeden called upon his elite demon guard, the vampiric dreadlords, to police Ner'zhul and ensure that he accomplished his dread task.

[page 2011]
text=Tichondrius, the most powerful and cunning of the dreadlords, warmed to the challenge

[page 2012]
next_page=2013
text=Kil'jaeden cast Ner'zhul's icy cask back into the world of Azeroth. The hardened crystal streaked across the night sky and smashed into the desolate arctic continent of Northrend, burying itself deep within the Icecrown glacier. The frozen crystal, warped and scarred by its violent descent, came to resemble a throne, and Ner'zhul's vengeful spirit soon stirred within it.

[page 2013]
next_page=2014
text=From the confines of the Frozen Throne, Ner'zhul began to reach out his vast consciousness and touch the minds of Northrend's native inhabitants. With little effort, he enslaved the minds of many indigenous creatures, including ice trolls and fierce wendigo, and he drew their evil brethren into his growing shadow. His psychic powers proved to be almost limitless, and he used them to create a small army that he housed within Icecrown's twisting labyrinths.

[page 2014]
next_page=2015
text=As the Lich King mastered his growing abilities under the dreadlords' persistent vigil, he discovered a remote human settlement on the fringe of the vast Dragonblight. On a whim, Ner'zhul decided to test his powers on the unsuspecting humans.

[page 2015]
next_page=2016
text=Ner'zhul cast a plague of undeath - which had originated from deep within the Frozen Throne, out into the arctic wasteland. Controlling the plague with his will alone, he drove it straight into the human village. Within three days, everyone in the settlement was dead, but shortly thereafter, the dead villagers began to rise as zombified corpses. Ner'zhul could feel their individual spirits and thoughts as if they were his own.

[page 2016]
next_page=2017
text=The raging cacophony in his mind caused Ner'zhul to grow even more powerful, as if their spirits provided him with much-needed nourishment. He found it was child's play to control the zombies' actions and steer them to whatever end he wished.

[page 2017]
text=Over the following months, Ner'zhul continued to experiment with his plague of undeath by subjugating every human inhabitant of Northrend. With his army of undead growing daily, he knew that the time for his true test was nearing.

[page 2018]
next_page=2019
text=Meanwhile, in the war-torn lands of the south, the scattered remnants of the Horde fought for their very survival. Though Grom Hellscream and his Warsong clan managed to evade capture, Deadeye and his Bleeding Hollow clan were rounded up and placed in the internment camps in Lordaeron. Notwithstanding these costly uprisings, the camps' wardens soon re-established control over their brutish charges.

[page 2019]
next_page=2020
text=However, unknown to the Alliance, a large force of orcs still roamed free in the northern wastes of Khaz Modan. The Dragonmaw clan, led by the infamous warlock Nekros, was using an ancient artifact known as the Demon Soul to control the Dragonqueen, Alexstrasza, and her dragonflight. With the Dragonqueen as his hostage, Nekros built up a secret army within the abandoned - some say cursed - Wildhammer stronghold of Grim Batol.

[page 2020]
next_page=2021
text=Planning to unleash his forces and the mighty red dragons on the Alliance, Nekros hoped to reunite the Horde and continue its conquest of Azeroth. His vision did not come to pass: a small group of resistance fighters, led by the human mage Rhonin managed to destroy the Demon Soul and free the Dragonqueen from Nekros' command.

[page 2021]
text=In their fury, Alexstrasza's dragons tore Grim Batol apart and incinerated the greater bulk of the Dragonmaw clan. Nekros' grand schemes of reunification came crashing down as the Alliance troops rounded up the remaining orc survivors and threw them into the waiting internment camps. The Dragonmaw clan's defeat signaled the end of the Horde, and the end of the orcs' furious bloodlust.

[page 2022]
next_page=2023
text=Months passed, and more orc prisoners were rounded up and placed within the internment camps. As the camps began to overflow, the Alliance was forced to construct new camps in the plains south of the Alterac Mountains. To properly maintain and supply the growing number of camps, King Terenas levied a new tax on the Alliance nations.

[page 2023]
next_page=2024
text=This tax, along with increased political tensions over border disputes, created widespread unrest. It seemed that the fragile pact that had forged the human nations together in their darkest hour would break at any given moment.

[page 2024]
next_page=2025
text=Amidst the political turmoil, many of the camp wardens began to notice an unsettling change come over their orc captives. The orcs' efforts to escape from the camps or even fight amongst themselves had greatly decreased in frequency over time. The orcs were becoming increasingly aloof and lethargic.

[page 2025]
next_page=2026
text= Though it was difficult to believe, the orcs - once held as the most aggressive race ever seen on Azeroth - had completely lost their will to fight. The strange lethargy confounded the Alliance leaders and continued to take its toll on the rapidly weakening orcs.

[page 2026]
next_page=2027
text=Some speculated that some strange disease, contractible only by orcs, brought about the baffling lethargy. But Archmage Antonidas of Dalaran posed a different hypothesis. Researching what little he could find of orcish history, Antonidas learned that the orcs had been under the crippling influence of demonic power for generations.

[page 2027]
next_page=2028
text= He speculated that the orcs had been corrupted by these powers even before their first invasion of Azeroth. Clearly, demons had spiked the orcs' blood, and in turn the brutes had been granted unnaturally heightened strength, endurance, and aggression.

[page 2028]
next_page=2029
text=Antonidas theorized that the orcs' communal lethargy was not actually a disease, but a consequence of racial withdrawal from the volatile warlock magics that had made them fearsome, bloodlusted warriors.

[page 2029]
text=Though the symptoms were clear, Antonidas was unable to find a cure for the orcs' present condition. Then too, many of his fellow mages, as well as a few notable Alliance leaders, argued that finding a cure for the orcs would be an imprudent venture. Left to ponder the orcs' mysterious condition, Antonidas' conclusion was that the orcs' cure would have to be a spiritual one.

[page 2030]
next_page=2031
text=The chief warden of the internment camps, Aedelas Blackmoore, watched over the captive orcs from his prison-stronghold, Durnholde. One orc in particular had always held his interest: the orphaned infant he had found nearly eighteen years before. Blackmoore had raised the young male as a favored slave and named him Thrall. Blackmoore taught the orc about tactics, philosophy, and combat. Thrall was even trained as a gladiator. All the while, the corrupt warden sought to mold the orc into a weapon.

[page 2031]
next_page=2032
text=Despite his harsh upbringing, young Thrall grew into a strong, quick-witted orc, and he knew in his heart that a slave's life was not for him. As he grew to maturity, he learned about his people, the orcs, whom he had never met: after their defeat, most of them had been placed in internment camps. Rumor had it that Doomhammer, the orc leader, had escaped from Lordaeron and gone into hiding. Only one rogue clan still operated in secret, trying to evade the watchful eyes of the Alliance.

[page 2032]
next_page=2033
text=The resourceful yet inexperienced Thrall decided to escape from Blackmoore's fortress and set off to find others of his kind. During his journeys Thrall visited the internment camps and found his once-mighty race to be strangely cowed and lethargic. Having not found the proud warriors he hoped to discover, Thrall set out to find the last undefeated orc chieftain, Grom Hellscream.

[page 2033]
next_page=2034
text=Constantly hunted by the humans, Hellscream nevertheless held onto the Horde's unquenchable will to fight. Aided only by his own devoted Warsong clan, Hellscream continued to wage an underground war against the oppression of his beleaguered people. Unfortunately, Hellscream could never find a way to rouse the captured orcs from their stupor. The impressionable Thrall, inspired by Hellscream's idealism, developed a strong empathy for the Horde and its warrior traditions.

[page 2034]
next_page=2035
text=Seeking the truth of his own origins, Thrall traveled north to find the legendary Frostwolf clan. Thrall learned that Gul'dan had exiled the Frostwolves during the early days of the First War. He also discovered that he was the son and heir of the orc hero Durotan, the true chieftain of the Frostwolves who had been murdered in the wilds nearly twenty years before.

[page 2035]
next_page=2036
text=Under the tutelage of the venerable shaman Drek'Thar, Thrall studied his people's ancient shamanistic culture, which had been forgotten under Gul'dan's evil rule. Over time, Thrall became a powerful shaman and took his rightful place as chieftain of the exiled Frostwolves. Empowered by the elements themselves and driven to find his destiny, Thrall set off to free the captive clans and heal his race of demonic corruption.

[page 2036]
next_page=2037
text=During his travels, Thrall found the aged warchief, Orgrim Doomhammer, who had been living as a hermit for many years. Doomhammer, who had been a close friend of Thrall's father, decided to follow the young, visionary orc and help him free the captive clans. Supported by many of the veteran chieftains, Thrall ultimately succeeded in revitalizing the Horde and giving his people a new spiritual identity.

[page 2037]
next_page=2038
text=To symbolize his people's rebirth, Thrall returned to Blackmoore's fortress of Durnholde and put a decisive end to his former master's plans by laying siege to the internment camps. This victory was not without its price: during the liberation of one camp, Doomhammer fell in battle.

[page 2038]
text=Thrall took up Doomhammer's legendary warhammer and donned his black plate-armor to become the new warchief of the Horde. During the following months, Thrall's small but volatile Horde laid waste to the internment camps and stymied the Alliance's best efforts to counter his clever strategies. Encouraged by his best friend and mentor, Grom Hellscream, Thrall worked to ensure that his people would never be slaves again.

[page 2044]
next_page=2045
text=There were a handful of powerful individuals scattered throughout the world who heard the Lich King's mental summons from Northrend. Most notable of them was the archmage of Dalaran, Kel'Thuzad, who was one of senior members of the Kirin Tor, Dalaran's ruling council. He had been considered a maverick for years due to his insistence on studying the forbidden arts of necromancy.

[page 2045]
next_page=2046
text=Driven to learn all he could of the magical world and its shadowy wonders, he was frustrated by what he saw as his peers' outmoded and unimaginative precepts. Upon hearing the powerful summons from Northrend, the archmage bent all of his considerable will to communing with the mysterious voice. Convinced that the Kirin Tor was too squeamish to seize the power and knowledge inherent in the dark arts, he resigned himself to learn what he could from the immensely powerful Lich King.

[page 2046]
next_page=2047
text=Leaving behind his fortune and prestigious political standing, Kel'Thuzad abandoned the ways of the Kirin Tor and left Dalaran forever. Prodded by the Lich King's persistent voice in his mind, he sold his vast holdings and stored away his fortunes. Traveling alone over many leagues of both land and sea, he finally reached the frozen shores of Northrend.

[page 2047]
next_page=2048
text= Intent on reaching Icecrown and offering his services to the Lich King, the archmage passed through the ravaged, war-torn ruins of Azjol-Nerub. Kel'Thuzad saw firsthand the scope and ferocity of Ner'zhul's power. He began to realize that allying himself with the mysterious Lich King might be both wise and potentially fruitful.

[page 2048]
next_page=2049
text=After long months of trekking through the harsh arctic wastelands, Kel'Thuzad finally reached the dark glacier of Icecrown. He boldly approached Ner'zhul's dark citadel and was shocked when the undead guardsmen silently let him pass as though he was expected.

[page 2049]
next_page=2050
text=Kel'Thuzad descended deep into the cold earth and found his way down to the bottom of the glacier. There, in the endless cavern of ice and shadows, he prostrated himself before the Frozen Throne and offered his soul to the dark lord of the dead.

[page 2050]
next_page=2051
text=The Lich King was pleased with his latest conscript. He promised Kel'Thuzad immortality and great power in exchange for his loyalty and obedience. Eager for dark knowledge and power, Kel'Thuzad accepted his first great mission: to go into the world of men and found a new religion that would worship the Lich King as a god.

[page 2051]
next_page=2052
text=To help the archmage accomplish his mission, Ner'zhul left Kel'Thuzad's humanity intact. The aged yet still charismatic wizard was charged with using his powers of illusion and persuasion to lull the downtrodden, disenfranchised masses of Lordaeron into a state of trust and belief. Then, once he had their attention, he would offer them a new vision of what society could be - and a new figurehead to call their king.

[page 2052]
next_page=2053
text=Kel'Thuzad returned to Lordaeron in disguise, and over the span of three years, he used his fortune and intellect to gather a clandestine brotherhood of like-minded men and women. The brotherhood, which he called the Cult of the Damned, promised its acolytes social equality and eternal life on Azeroth in exchange for their service and obedience to Ner'zhul.

[page 2053]
next_page=2054
text=As the months passed, Kel'Thuzad found many eager volunteers for his new cult amongst the tired, overburdened laborers of Lordaeron. It was surprisingly easy for Kel'Thuzad to achieve his goal: namely, to transfer the citizens' faith in the Holy Light into belief in Ner'zhul's dark shadow. As the Cult of the Damned grew in size and influence, Kel'Thuzad made sure to hide its workings from the authorities of Lordaeron.

[page 2054]
next_page=2055
text=With Kel'Thuzad's success in Lordaeron, the Lich King made the final preparations for his assault against human civilization. Placing his plague-energies into a number of portable artifacts called plague-cauldrons, Ner'zhul ordered Kel'Thuzad to transport the cauldrons to Lordaeron, where they would be hidden within various cult-controlled villages.

[page 2055]
next_page=2056
text=The cauldrons, protected by the loyal cultists, would then act as plague-generators, sending the plague seeping out across the unsuspecting farmlands and cities of northern Lordaeron.

[page 2056]
next_page=2057
text=The Lich King's plan worked perfectly. Many of Lordaeron's northern villages were contaminated almost immediately. Just as in Northrend, the citizens who contracted the plague died and arose as the Lich King's willing slaves.

[page 2057]
text=The cultists under Kel'Thuzad were eager to die and be raised again in their dark lord's service. They exulted in the prospect of immortality through undeath. As the plague spread, more and more feral zombies arose in the northlands. Kel'Thuzad looked upon the Lich King's growing army and named it the Scourge, for soon it would march upon the gates of Lordaeron and scour humanity from the face of the world.

[page 2064]
next_page=2065
text=After preparing for many long months, Kel'Thuzad and his Cult of the Damned finally struck the first blow by releasing the plague of undeath upon Lordaeron. Uther and his fellow paladins investigated the infected regions in the hope of finding a way to stop the plague. Despite their efforts, the plague continued to spread and threatened to tear the Alliance apart.

[page 2065]
next_page=2066
text=As the ranks of the undead swept across Lordaeron, Terenas' only son, Prince Arthas, took up the fight against the Scourge. Arthas succeeded in killing Kel'Thuzad, but even so, the undead ranks swelled with every soldier that fell defending the land. Frustrated and stymied by the seemingly unstoppable enemy, Arthas took increasingly extreme steps to conquer them. Finally Arthas' comrades warned him that he was losing his hold on his humanity.

[page 2066]
next_page=2067
text=Arthas' fear and resolve proved to be his ultimate undoing. He tracked the plague's source to Northrend, intending to end its threat forever. Instead, Prince Arthas eventually fell prey to the Lich King's tremendous power. Believing that it would save his people, Arthas took up the cursed runeblade, Frostmourne.

[page 2067]
text=Though the sword did grant him unfathomable power, it also stole his soul and transformed him into the greatest of the Lich King's death knights. With his soul cast aside and his sanity shattered, Arthas led the Scourge against his own kingdom. Ultimately, Arthas murdered his own father, King Terenas, and crushed Lordaeron under the Lich King's iron heel.

[page 2072]
next_page=2073
text=Once Kel'Thuzad was whole again, Arthas led the Scourge south to Dalaran. There the lich would obtain the powerful spellbook of Medivh, and use it to summon Archimonde back into the world. From that point on, Archimonde himself would begin the Legion's final invasion. Not even the wizards of the Kirin Tor could stop Arthas' forces from stealing Medivh's book, and soon Kel'Thuzad had all he needed to perform his spell.

[page 2073]
next_page=2074
text=After ten thousand years, the mighty demon Archimonde and his host emerged once again upon the world of Azeroth. Yet Dalaran was not their final destination. Under orders from Kil'jaeden himself, Archimonde and his demons followed the undead Scourge to Kalimdor, bent on destroying Nordrassil, the World Tree.

[page 2074]
next_page=2075
text=In the midst of this chaos, a lone, mysterious prophet appeared to lend the mortal races guidance. This prophet proved to be none other than Medivh, the last Guardian, miraculously returned from the Beyond to redeem himself for past sins. Medivh told the Horde and the Alliance of the dangers they faced and urged them to band together.

[page 2075]
next_page=2076
text=Jaded by generations of hate, the orcs and humans would have none of it. Medivh was forced to deal with each race separately, using prophecy and trickery to guide them across the sea to the legendary land of Kalimdor. The orcs and humans soon encountered the long-hidden civilization of the Kaldorei.

[page 2076]
next_page=2077
text=The orcs, led by Thrall, suffered a series of setbacks on their journey across Kalimdor's Barrens. Though they befriended Cairne Bloodhoof and his mighty tauren warriors, many orcs began to succumb to the demonic bloodlust that had plagued them for years. Thrall's greatest lieutenant, Grom Hellscream, even betrayed the Horde by giving himself over to his baser instincts.

[page 2077]
next_page=2078
text= As Hellscream and his loyal Warsong warriors stalked through the forests of Ashenvale, they clashed with the ancient night elf Sentinels. Certain that the orcs had returned to their warlike ways, the demigod Cenarius came forth to drive Hellscream and his orcs back. Yet Hellscream and his orcs, overcome with supernatural hate and rage, managed to kill Cenarius and corrupt the ancient forestlands.

[page 2078]
next_page=2079
text=Ultimately, Hellscream redeemed his honor by helping Thrall defeat Mannoroth, the demon lord who first cursed the orcs with his bloodline of hate and rage. With Mannoroth's death, the orcs' blood-curse was finally brought to an end.

[page 2079]
next_page=2080
text=While Medivh worked to convince the orcs and humans of the need for an alliance, the night elves fought the Legion in their own secretive ways. Tyrande Whisperwind, the immortal High Priestess of the night elf Sentinels, battled desperately to keep the demons and undead from overrunning the forests of Ashenvale. Tyrande realized that she needed help, so she set out to awaken the night elf druids from their thousand-year slumber.

[page 2080]
next_page=2081
text=Calling upon her ancient love, Malfurion Stormrage, Tyrande succeeded in galvanizing her defenses and driving the Legion back. With Malfurion's help, nature herself rose up to vanquish the Legion and its Scourge allies.

[page 2081]
next_page=2082
text=While searching for more of the hibernating druids, Malfurion found the ancient barrow prison in which he had chained his brother, Illidan. Convinced that Illidan would aid them against the Legion, Tyrande set him free. Though Illidan did aid them for a time, he eventually fled to pursue his own interests.

[page 2082]
text=The night elves braced themselves and fought the Burning Legion with grim determination. The Legion had never ceased in its desire for the Well of Eternity, long the source of strength for the World Tree and itself the heart of the night elf kingdom. If their planned assault on the Tree was successful, the demons would literally tear the world apart.

[page 2083]
next_page=2084
text=During the Legion's invasion of Ashenvale, Illidan was released from his barrow prison after ten thousand years of captivity. Though he sought to appease his comrades, he soon reverted to true form and consumed the energies of a powerful warlock artifact known as the Skull of Gul'dan.

[page 2084]
next_page=2085
text=By doing so, Illidan developed demonic features and vastly magnified power. He also gained some of Gul'dan's old memories - especially those of the Tomb of Sargeras, the island dungeon rumored to hold the remains of the Dark Titan, Sargeras.

[page 2085]
next_page=2086
text=Bristling with power and free to roam the world once more, Illidan set out to find his own place in the great scheme of things. However, Kil'jaeden confronted Illidan and made him an offer he could not refuse. Kil'jaeden was angered by Archimonde's defeat at Mount Hyjal, but he had greater concerns than vengeance.

[page 2086]
next_page=2087
text=Sensing that his creation, the Lich King, was growing too powerful to control, Kil'jaeden ordered Illidan to destroy Ner'zhul and put an end to the undead Scourge once and for all. In exchange, Illidan would receive untold power and a true place amongst the remaining lords of the Burning Legion.

[page 2087]
next_page=2088
text=Illidan agreed and immediately set out to destroy the Frozen Throne, the icy crystal cask in which the Lich King's spirit resided. Illidan knew that he would need a mighty artifact to destroy the Frozen Throne. Using the knowledge he had gained from Gul'dan's memories, Illidan decided to seek out the Tomb of Sargeras and claim the Dark Titan's remains.

[page 2088]
next_page=2089
text=He called in some old Highborne debts and lured the serpentine naga from their dark undersea lairs. Led by the cunning witch Lady Vashj the naga helped Illidan reach the Broken Isles, where Sargeras' Tomb was rumored to be located.

[page 2089]
next_page=2090
text=As Illidan set out with the naga, Warden Maiev Shadowsong began to hunt him. Maiev had been Illidan's jailor for ten thousand years and relished the prospect of recapturing him. However, Illidan outsmarted Maiev and her Watchers and succeeded in claiming the Eye of Sargeras despite their efforts. With the powerful Eye in his possession, Illidan traveled to the former wizard-city of Dalaran.

[page 2090]
next_page=2091
text=Strengthened by the city's ley power lines, Illidan used the Eye to cast a destructive spell against the Lich King's citadel of Icecrown in distant Northrend. Illidan's attack shattered the Lich King's defenses and ruptured the very roof of the world. At the final moment, Illidan's destructive spell was stopped when his brother Malfurion and the Priestess Tyrande arrived to aid Maiev.

[page 2091]
next_page=2092
text=Knowing that Kil'jaeden would not be pleased with his failure to destroy the Frozen Throne, Illidan fled to the barren dimension known as Outland: the last remnants of Draenor, the orcs' former homeworld. There he planned to evade Kil'jaeden's wrath and plan his next moves.

[page 2092]
text=After they succeeded in stopping Illidan, Malfurion and Tyrande returned home to Ashenvale Forest to watch over their people. Maiev, however, would not quit so easily, and followed Illidan to Outland, determined to bring him to justice.

[page 2097]
next_page=2098
text=Ner'zhul, the Lich King, knew that his time was short. Imprisoned within the Frozen Throne, he suspected that Kil'jaeden would send his agents to destroy him. The damage caused by Illidan's spell had ruptured the Frozen Throne

[page 2098]
next_page=2099
text=Though his powers were drained by the Lich King's weakness, Arthas had been involved in a civil war in Lordaeron. Half of the standing undead forces, led by the banshee Sylvanas Windrunner, staged a coup for control over the undead empire. Arthas, called by the Lich King, was forced to leave the Scourge in the hands of his lieutenant, Kel'Thuzad, as the war escalated throughout the Plaguelands.

[page 2099]
next_page=2100
text=Ultimately, Sylvanas and her rebel undead (known as the Forsaken) claimed the ruined capital city of Lordaeron as their own. Constructing their own bastion beneath the wrecked city, the Forsaken vowed to defeat the Scourge and drive Kel'Thuzad and his minions from the land.

[page 2100]
text=Weakened, but determined to save his master, Arthas reached Northrend only to find Illidan's naga and blood elves waiting for him. He and his nerubian allies raced against Illidan's forces to reach the Icecrown Glacier and defend the Frozen Throne.

[page 2171]
text=Fellari Swiftarrow
text=Ranger Captain of the Scarlet Crusade
text=Citizen of Quel'Thalas
text=Lost in the forests of Silverpine

[page 2175]
text=Invar One-Arm
text=The first Chief Assassin of the Scarlet Crusade
text=Citizen of Dalaran
text=Last seen on the shores of Northrend

[page 2176]
text=Orman of Stromgarde
text=The first Captain General of the Scarlet Crusade
text=Citizen of Stromgarde
text=Lost at the mouth of Icecrown Glacier

[page 2198]
next_page=2199
text=Aside from their shadowy origins, it is clear that the night elves came to power soon after their discovery of the Well of Eternity. Despite the trolls' attempts to keep them from expanding their territories, the night elves built up a mighty empire that expanded rapidly across primordial Kalimdor. Wielding fierce magics never before imagined by the superstitious trolls, the night elves had little trouble doing what the evil aqir could never do: topple the two greatest empires in the world.

[page 2199]
next_page=2200
text=The night elves systematically dismantled the troll's defenses and supply chains. The trolls, unable to counter the elves' destructive magics, buckled under the onslaught. The night elves proved to every bit as cunning and bloodthirsty as the savage trolls -- incurring the latter race's eternal hatred and disdain. The Gurubashi and Amani empires fragmented within only a few short years.

[page 2200]
next_page=2201
text=Eventually, the night elves were burned by the arcane fires they had sought to control. Their reckless use of magic had lured the demonic Burning Legion to the world. The demons crushed much of the night elves' civilization. Though there are no records to indicate that the Legion attacked either troll civilization, it is likely that battles took place across the breadth of the continent.

[page 2201]
next_page=2202
text=At the end of this terrible conflict -- known as the War of the Ancients -- the Well of Eternity imploded. The resulting shockwave shattered the greater landmass of Kalimdor. The center of the continent was blasted beneath the sea, leaving only a small group of broken, single continents.

[page 2202]
text=Thus, great chunks of both the Amani and Gurubashi Empires still exist in the present day lands of Quel'Thalas and Stranglethorn (respectively). The Azj'Aqir kingdoms of Azjol-Nerub and Ahn'Qiraj have also survived in present day Northrend and Tanaris (respectively).
text=
text=Both troll civilizations recoiled from the vast destruction of the primordial world they had known. The dauntless trolls rebuilt their ravaged cities and set about to reclaim some of their former power.

[page 2212]
next_page=2213
text=Oh, I am cursed!  Once a great ogre mage of the Spirestone clan, I challenged Urok Doomhowl and he stole my magic and cursed me.  Now, I must walk the halls of Hordemar as this wretched creature!$B$BAid me!  Face Urok and steal back my magic!  It will not be easy, for Urok stays in the shadows and can only be summoned through a great challenge.$B$BThat challenge will be the death of his most trusted aid, Highlord Omokk.$B$BRead on, and you will see.

[page 2213]
next_page=2214
text=Highlord Omokk rules the Spirestones, but he does so through Urok's magic.  Urok charmed Omokk with a spell that can strike dead any ogre who challenges him.  He has used that spell many times, and keeps the skulls of his victims in a pile, in a place of power above Omokk's chamber.$B$BThat is where you must go to face Urok.

[page 2214]
next_page=2215
text=Find a roughshod pike among the Scarshield camps.  They often stack them by their bed mats near the entrance to the Spirestone ogre's domain.$B$BWhen you have the pike, charge your way  to Highlord Omokk.  Kill him, and place his head on the pike.$B$BThen you will be ready for your real challenge.

[page 2215]
next_page=2216
text=Go to the place of power above the Spirestone domain, beyond the Skitterweb Tunnels.  At that place are piled the skulls of Urok's enemies and rivals.  It is here where you must drive the pike with Omokk's head!$B$BWhen the head is in place, Urok is sure to come... but first he will send his minions against you.  Defeat them, and in time Urok himself will be summoned.$B$BKill Urok and retrieve my magic.  With my powers returned, I will reward you.

[page 2216]
text=Luck to you.  And here is a clue that may help in your trials against Urok's minions:$B$BThe spell Omokk uses against the ogres, the one that strikes them dead, may still have power after you kill Omokk.  During your fight with Urok's minions, invoke the power in Omokk's head -- with luck, Omokk will strike down Urok's minions!$B$BFitting irony.

[page 2217]
text=In loving memory of Jesse Morales

[page 2251]
next_page=2413
text=Attackers... from all sides.$B$BCan see it in their eyes. Timbermaw are evil. Enemy.$B$BMust protect tribe. Must protect Winterfall. Must drive intruders from our land.

[page 2271]
text=Nataka, all is well in Thousand Needles. The centaur annoyance is nothing more then that...occasionally attacking, nothing substantial as a real threat. However, there does seem to be some news of centaur clans uniting.$B$BWe always pondered the threat of a united ruthless race such as the centaur... I try not to dwell on such ideas, as you know... nothing could penetrate the pure hatred they have... even of each other.$B$B-Cliffwatcher Longhorn

[page 2291]
text=Archbishop Alonsus Faol
text=
text=Benevolent patron of the Church of Light.
text=
text=Though he began his good work in Stratholme, Lordaeron, Archbishop Faol was a great friend to the people of Stormwind. In the dark days after the Second War, he helped to reform the Brotherhood of Northshire and raised vast funds to rebuild Stormwind city itself.
text=
text=This Cathedral stands not only as a bastion of the Holy Light, but as a lasting testament to one man's noble spirit and generosity.

[page 2292]
text=King Llane I of the House of Wrynn
text=
text=Liege Lord of Stormwind
text=
text=Defender of Azeroth

[page 2293]
text=Commander of the Alliance Fleets
text=
text=Friend of Stormwind
text=

[page 2294]
text=Lady Mara Fordragon
text=
text=High Clerist of Stormwind
text=
text=Patron of the Refugees who fled to Lordaeron after the First War.
text=
text=She was the bright mother of our future. May she rest in the Light.
text=

[page 2305]
next_page=2306
text=In time, the child, Cenarius, grew to the stature of his proud father. A brother to both the trees and the stars, the great hunter roamed the far places of the world, singing the harmonious songs of the dawning. All creatures bowed before his grace and beauty - there were none so cunning as the son of the moon and the white stag.

[page 2306]
next_page=2307
text=Eventually, Cenarius befriended the Shu'halo and spoke to them of the turning world. The children of the earth knew him as brother and swore to help him care for the fields of life and the favored creatures of their great Earthmother.

[page 2307]
text=Cenarius taught the children of the earth to speak to the trees and plants. The Shu'halo became druids and worked great deeds of magic to nurse the land to health. For many generations the Shu'halo hunted with Cenarius and kept the world safe from the shadows that stirred beneath it.

[page 2413]
next_page=2414
text=Snow, blinding...$B$BMust protect tribe. Make them strong. Be strong.$B$BDo not know...

[page 2414]
next_page=2415
text=Firewater.$B$BMake more. More firewater.$B$BFirewater make Winterfall strong. Defeat our enemies.$B$BWinterfall have no ally. Winterfall are strong. Have great power.

[page 2415]
text=More. Must have more...$B$BWinterfall... not... weak...

[page 2432]
text=Never been more proud to be part of the trade as I am in these last few years. The need for assassins, spies, and scouts has never been more prevelant. You'd think war-time would have had higher demand, but suprisingly, war isn't a time we flourish like we do now--the times after peace starts to deteriorate.$B$BI was told you'd be in the area looking to learn a few things. When you have time, come see me by the stables in back of the abbey.$B$B-Jorik Kerridan, Rogue Trainer

[page 2436]
text=Take care not to ignore my words, $N. This is the time for subterfuge and deciet throughout all nations... even our great Undercity. Everyone loyal to Sylvanas is working towards creating a new era, one controlled by the Forsaken. And even though we posses no magical skills, nor will we take up weapons along our borders, we still have our own role to play.$B$BSeek me out in the inn in Deathknell. We'll speak more then.$B$B-David Trias, Rogue Trainer

[page 2437]
text=Sael'ah, my friend. I hope this sigil finds you well. I was asked to offer you my services. I too am in Shadowglen, in the great tree of Aldrassil, and I wanted you to know that if you need any training that you could seek me out.$B$BIn these questionable times, I thought it prudent that those dealing in stealth remain even closer to one another. How else will we be able to protect Teldrassil and our ways?$B$BFind me when you can.$B$B-Frahun Shadewhisper, Rogue Trainer

[page 2438]
text=Greetings, $gbrother:sister

[page 2441]
text=Many tribes claim that it is a gift to be blessed with the aptitude to use magic or to talk to our ancestors, but you should know this as well, $c, you are just as gifted. Some do not have the strength in their arms to wield mighty weapons. Some do not have the skill to parry a blow from an assassin, or to even suffer the physical punishments from an arcane spellcaster, but you do. You are strong. And I will help you become stronger. Find me in Camp Narache.$B$B-Harutt Thunderhorn, Warrior Trainer

[page 2448]
text=Welcome to your awakening, mon. Da secrets of da arcane be wit'in your grasp if you be strong enough to hold onto dem.$B$BYou find Mai'ah when you be ready. She teach you much about magic and da spells you need to destroy those dat stand against you.$B$BMai'ah be near da Den in da Valley of Trials. You come, you find her, den you be strong. Den you show other mages how magic bends to your will... not de other way 'round.

[page 2451]
text=I write this message in the most powerful inks I can create, $N. It would instantly curse anyone who would dare read it besides yourself. I am that powerful. I summon demons from the Twisting Nether at my leisure. I plague my enemies in their sleep and in the field of battle. And now you too have seen the power of my path. My brothers are pleased by that.$B$BSeek me out in the depths of the Den once you've found your way around. I would speak to you about important matters.$B$B-Nartok, Warlock Trainer

[page 2453]
text=Mighty warriors defend our home. Our shamans guide our spirits and show us our ancestors' past. And our druids help us discover the Earthmother's will.$B$BBut you are one of our hunters, and our hunters learn many aspects of those roles and blend them together. You will find you represent the heart of our people--some of our tribe will look to you for guidance, some for protection. It is my duty to ensure you are prepared for that. Seek me out in Camp Narache.$B$B-Lanka Farshot, Hunter Trainer

[page 2454]
text=Ya be in good hands now, mon. Jen'shan know you be lookin' to learn da ways of da hunter, and she be ready to teach you... if you be ready to listen.$B$BCome find me in da Valley of Trials. Jen'shan start your trainin' and show you just how powerful da ways of da hunter is.$B$B-Jen'shan, Hunter Trainer

[page 2456]
text=Elune is with you, $N. The wind whispers it to me, and I'm glad I can directly take part in the shaping of our next generation of hunters.$B$BFrom what I have been told, you are close to Aldrassil. I would meet with you inside the great tree when you have time.$B$BOur elders have charged me with ensuring that new hunters are properly trained for the trials ahead. You being one of the newest students, it would behoove you to visit me. Until then, be well.$B$B-Ayanna Everstride, Hunter Trainer

[page 2458]
text=The spirits came to me in my dreams last night. They told me of your coming, and that it would be my task to aid you. We have much to go over in our short time together--discussions about nature, the spirits, the Earthmother, and even the night elves. But I will save the lessons for your arrival, and I will do all that is in my power to ensure that you are ready for the trials ahead.$B$BMay wisdom guide you. I will be waiting.$B$B-Gart Mistrunner, Druid Trainer

[page 2459]
text=When word reached me that you were ready, I sent this sigil immediately. All of Cenarius' druids take great satisfaction in seeing our numbers bolster. The spirits even seem to have become stronger with our enhanced presence. In time, and with some patience, hopefuly our strength will return to its former grandeur. Find me near the top of Aldrassil when you are ready. I will be your guide as long as you are in Shadowglen.$B$B- Mardant Strongoak, Druid Trainer

[page 2460]
text=I greet you, young $c. The winds told me of your coming. The earth gave praise of your strength. And now the ancient spirits whisper of your accomplishments to come. Our people always need wise and great leaders. They often turn to our kind for both virtues. If you are willing, I would teach you more of our ways.$B$BSeek me out in Camp Narache on Red Cloud Mesa--we will speak more then.$B$B-Meela Dawnstrider, Shaman Trainer

[page 2461]
text=Lok-tar, $gbrother:sister

[page 2463]
text=I hope this letter finds you well, $c. I say that with great pride, because not many can profess such profound faith, but also know that they are among the most elite of Azeroth's protectors.$B$BAlways remember, first and foremost, it is your duty to go to battle against those who seek to harm our world and bring corruption into our homes.$B$BI have been given authority over your training for the time being. When you are ready, seek me out inside Northshire Abbey.$B$B-Brother Sammuel, Paladin Trainer

[page 2464]
text=Some fear our kind more than dragons. Some envy us more than the most skilled blacksmiths. Some praise our strength in battle. Others revel in our faith. Some are just jealous that we can drink them under the table! But know this, $c, you are among the most elite protectors in all of Azeroth. The Holy Light gives us strength as much as we strengthen it.$B$BI would tell you more when you've gotten acquainted with the land some. Find me inside Anvilmar above the Valley.$B$B-Bromos Grummner, Paladin Trainer

[page 2465]
text=Your connection to the world, and its connection to you, are paramount to your success as a priest. Wisdom and compassion will allow you to help those who have a true need. Overeagerness and clumsy decisions only prevent others from becoming stronger or cause harm.$B$BAs you begin to understand what this means, you will need new abilities and spells to help you. That is where my role begins: find me in the library wing of Northshire Abbey when you are ready to train.$B$B-Priestess Anetta, Priest Trainer

[page 2466]
text=With the Holy Light warmin' our backs and new discoveries being made every day, 'tis an exciting time to be one of Ironforge's $gsons:daughters

[page 2467]
text=Feel blessed that you're spirit was not released to the Nether, $N. Feel even more blessed that I decided you were worth the effort to write this scroll for.$B$BThe people you once knew, perhaps even cared for, are no longer! You must learn to "live" with that for the rest of your now unnatural life. I suggest you learn to deal with that first.$B$BIf you think you're ready for the trials ahead, then seek me out in the church in Deathknell.$B$B- Dark Cleric Duesten, Priest Trainer

[page 2468]
text=I hope this sigil finds you well, $N. The spirits told me of your coming and I sent word immediately. I look forward to sharing my experiences with you, and helping guide you as you prepare to leave Teldrassil for more important matters.$B$BWith all that has happened in the last few years, there is much we can do to aid the other races of Azeroth. When you are ready, find me inside Aldrassil, on the second level.$B$B-Shanda, Priest Trainer

[page 2491]
text=Grish-$B$BYour request for some time off has been accepted. I am sending a reserve Tauren warrior to watch your post while you take time off to spend with your family. Report back in one week!$B$B-Maggran Earthbinder

[page 2512]
text=Osric,
text=
text=Please find below the list of armor of which we are in need:
text=
text=10 Mail shirts
text=20 Helms
text=30 Armor Patches
text=15 Mail Boots
text=
text=We are, as always, in your debt.  And should Westfall ever be free of the thieves who threaten it, it would ease the guilt in my heart if I could invite you to my family's home, for a fine meal cooked from the bounty this land was once so well known.
text=
text=-Lewis
text=Quartermaster, Sentinel Hill
text=
text=

[page 2513]
text=Nessa,
text=
text=It is good to hear from you.
text=
text=The collection of bones and scales  you sent me was incredible.  Never have I seen fish of that size off the mainland.  the fishers of Rut'theran must pull in easily a ton of fish each day!
text=
text=I envy the size of their bounty, but I am a small bit troubled as well.  Could our new world tree make the fish grow to such a size?  If that is so, what other effects might it have?
text=
text=Questions to ponder,
text=-Laird

[page 2514]
text=Below is the list students who obtained a Platinum Star grade at Brock's School of Mining and Surveying, earning them an Honarary Miner's Pick:
text=
text=Melia Stoneshaker
text=Bardin Ironband
text=Umi Togglevolt
text=Rumi Togglevolt
text=Vorel Steelspire

[page 2515]
text=By order of High Executor Hadrec, below are the items deemed necessary in order to maintain the stock of the Sepulcher:
text=
text=12 Long swords
text=9 Dagggers
text=8 Round Shields
text=15 Axes
text=1000 Arrows
text=
text=Fulfillment of this order is to be considered a direct command of the Dark Lady, and those responsible will be brought to Her attention, as will any who oppose or otherwise hamper Her wishes.

[page 2571]
next_page=2572
text=The Feast of Winter Veil$B$BThe later seasons of Azeroth are marked as a time of change in many cultures.  The dwarves and the tauren especially look to a legend of the coming Winter Veil - the blanketing of the land in snow, thus heralding a time of renewal - as a time for celebration.  Though the understanding of the legends that the races of Azeroth share are not dissimilar, the ways they choose to acknowledge them are as diverse as the races themselves.

[page 2572]
next_page=2573
text=The Legend of Greatfather Winter$B$BThe term "Winter Veil" is said to stem from a supernatural being referred in many cultures to as Greatfather Winter.  As he would walk the land late in the seasons, winter itself would be his billowing cloak.  In his wake was the blanketing of the land in snow, and thus it is said that Greatfather Winter would cast his wintry veil over the land.  Though parts of Azeroth may lie in snow, it gives the land time for rebirth and renewal.

[page 2573]
next_page=2574
text=The Dwarves$B$BEver consumed with the research of their origins, the dwarves choose to celebrate the season as a recognition of Greatfather Winter himself.  They consider him to be the personification of one of the ancients of Azeroth - the titans.  Much as they claim lineage in one degree or another to these mystical beings, they consider their snowy home of Dun Morogh as the prime example of Greatfather Winter's blessings.

[page 2574]
next_page=2575
text=The Tauren$B$BThe tauren and their shamanistic understanding of winter, along with their recent emergence into druidic endeavors, fit in well with the legend of Winter Veil.  They focus almost entirely on the renewing aspects of the lore however, leaving legend worship to those races (as they view it) less in tune with nature of things.  Many tauren choose this time as the right time to give thanks for the blessings of their new home in Mulgore.

[page 2575]
next_page=2576
text=Feasting$B$BThe idea of feasting during this time of year is one that traces its origins to the legend itself.  As Greatfather Winter walked Azeroth, bringing winter in his wake, it is said he would provide a bounty for those who welcomed his presence.  As such, the idea of feasting during the Winter Veil would bring together communities as they shared whatever they had.  Typically, a single day of merriment and feasting welcomed the change, all in anticipation of the land's renewal.

[page 2576]
text=Modern Day Observation$B$BOther cultures have begun to recognize the Feast of Winter Veil as a time of great celebration, though not in the same traditions as the legend bases it in.  Customs, often unrelated to anything other than a chance for celebration and gift exchange, have made their way into modern day observation of the season.  Even the image of Greatfather Winter is sometimes used, but more as a harbinger of commercial exploit rather than as a supernatural titan.

[page 2591]
next_page=2592
text=Set far back in the Valley of Spears is the holy temple of Maraudon. If that were not transgression enough, you will quickly see why I have asked a non-centaur to aid me in my plight.$B$BThere, just beyond the doors where only spirits and our most sacred priests and priestesses may travel is one called The Nameless Prophet. He is the highest of any tribe in spiritual matters and is one of the oldest of any tribe.

[page 2592]
next_page=2593
text=The Prophet is powerful, and communicates with the spirits of our ancestors. But he is a fool! He has no idea the true power he possesses. On his person is the Amulet of Spirits--it is where most of his strength comes from.
text=
text=I have learned that the Amulet is powerful, but it is incomplete.

[page 2593]
next_page=2595
text=There are five gems missing from the amulet. And if those gems were found and placed back into the symbol, its power would far exceed that of its current form. I have found the five gems, but need one of your skill to help gather them. Slaying The Nameless Prophet is heresy for sure, as is stealing from his corpse, but what I would ask of you next would condemn any centaur for even thinking it.

[page 2595]
next_page=2596
text=Throughout the caverns of Maraudon roam the spirits of our first Kahns. Our Mother and Father's first children, and our greatest leaders--they are Gelk, Kolk, Magra, Maraudos, and Veng. Each of these spirits holds one of the missing gems.

[page 2596]
text=Use the power of the Amulet of Spirits to force them to manifest and take the gems from them! After, place the gems within the Amulet of Spirits and return it to me. Once I have the Amulet of Union, I will be powerful enough to reform the tribes so we can finally be as our ancestors wanted us to be!

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
//////////////////////////////////// New Object(s) ////////////////////////////////////
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[page 291]
text=Danath Trollbane
text=
text=Militia Commander of Stromgarde.Tactical Advisor to General Turalyon, Force Commander of the Alliance Expedition that marched into the orc homeworld of Draenor. Presumed deceased.
text=
text=We honor your memory, nephew, and your sacrifice. Since the founding of our glorious empire, the path to valor has always been drenched with the blood of heroes.
text=
text=- Thoras Trollbane, Lord of Stromgarde

[page 1431]
text=Vorfalk Irongourd
text=
text=Vorfalk works the store room of the Grim Guzzler, and his sacrifice to the Dark Keepers runs deep.
text=
text=May his spirit hold strong.

[page 1433]
text=Uggel Hammerhand
text=
text=Uggel is a skilled and solemn chiseler, and when not burdened with the dark key, his hands shape great works in the Hall of Crafting.

[page 1435]
text=Ofgut Stonefist
text=
text=Those fallen before Dark Keeper Ofgut's hammer cannot be counted.
text=
text=The soldiers of the West Garrison bow in awe as he passes.  For who among them can look into the eyes of Ofgut and see the secrets the dark key whispers?

[page 1471]
text=Solomon,$B$BThe carrier of this decree has been granted official status as an acting deputy of Stormwind. You may use $g him:her
text=

[page 1691]
text=Hi Felnok!
text=
text=My studies in the Burning Steppes are proceeding splendidly.  And I owe $N a lot for all $ghis:her
text=
text=A steelcoil bumber-bitzel
text=A 17-guage ice-spanner
text=12 pounds of duck feathers
text=A jar of that glue you make
text=
text=Thanks a lot Felnok, and when we see each other again remind me not to put coal in your boots!
text=
text=-Tinkee

[page 1755]
text=Found in the remote rainforest of the Un'Goro Crater, this egg once held an embryonic Devilsaur. The saurial's genetic material has proven invaluable to League ecologists who are closer than ever to devising a serum for the devilsaurs' debilitating venom.

[page 1898]
next_page=1899
text=Strom continued to act as the central hub of Arathor, but as with Dalaran, many new city-states arose across the continent of Lordaeron. Gilneas, Alterac, and Kul Tiras were the first city-states to arise, and although they each had their own customs and commercial workings, they all held to the unifying authority of Strom.

[page 1899]
next_page=1900
text=Under the vigilant watch of the Order of Tirisfal, Dalaran became the chief center of learning for magicians throughout the land. The Magocrats who ruled Dalaran founded the Kirin Tor, a specialized sect that was charged with cataloguing and researching every spell, artifact, and magic item known to mankind at the time.

[page 1900]
next_page=1901
text=Gilneas and Alterac became strong supporters of Strom and developed mighty armies that explored the mountainous southern lands of Khaz Modan. It was during this period that humans first met the ancient race of dwarves and traveled to their cavernous subterranean city of Ironforge. The humans and dwarves shared many secrets of metal-smithing and engineering and discovered a common love for battle and storytelling.

[page 1901]
next_page=1902
text=The city-state of Kul Tiras, founded upon a large island south of Lordaeron, developed a prosperous economy based on fishing and shipping. Over time, Kul Tiras built up a mighty fleet of merchant vessels that sailed throughout the known lands in search of exotic goods to trade and sell. Yet even as the economy of Arathor flourished, its strongest elements began to disintegrate.

[page 1902]
next_page=1903
text=In time, the lords of Strom sought to move their estates to the lush northlands of Lordaeron and leave the arid lands of the south. The heirs of King Thoradin, the last descendants of the Arathi bloodline, argued that Strom should not be abandoned and thus incurred the displeasure of the greater citizenry, who were likewise eager to leave.

[page 1903]
next_page=1904
text=The lords of Strom, seeking to find purity and enlightenment in the untamed north, decided to leave their ancient city behind. Far to the north of Dalaran, the lords of Strom built a new city-state which they named Lordaeron. The entire continent would take its name from this city-state. Lordaeron became a mecca for religious travelers and all those who sought inner peace and security.

[page 1904]
next_page=1905
text=The descendents of the Arathi, left within the crumbling walls of ancient Strom, decided to travel south past the rocky mountains of Khaz Modan. Their journey finally ended after many long seasons, and they settled in the northern region of the continent they would name Azeroth. In a fertile valley they founded the kingdom of Stormwind, which quickly became a self-sufficient power in its own right.

[page 1905]
text=The few warriors still left in Strom decided to remain and guard the ancient walls of their city. Strom was no longer the center of the empire, but it developed into a new nation known as Stromgarde. Though each of the city-states became prosperous in its own right, the empire of Arathor had effectively disintegrated. As each nation developed its own customs and beliefs, they became increasingly segregated from one another. King Thoradin's vision of a unified humanity had faded at last.

[page 2039]
next_page=2040
text=While Thrall was liberating his brethren in Lordaeron, Ner'zhul continued to build up his power base in Northrend. A great citadel was erected above the Icecrown Glacier and manned by the growing legions of the dead. Yet as the Lich King extended his influence over the land, one shadowy empire stood against his power.

[page 2040]
next_page=2041
text=The ancient subterranean kingdom of Azjol-Nerub, which had been founded by a race of sinister humanoid spiders, sent their elite warrior-guard to attack Icecrown and end the Lich King's mad bid for dominance. Much to his frustration, Ner'zhul found that the evil nerubians were immune not only to the plague, but to his telepathic domination as well.

[page 2041]
next_page=2042
text=The nerubian spider-lords commanded vast forces and had an underground network that stretched nearly half the breadth of Northrend. Their hit-and-run tactics on the Lich King's strongholds stymied his efforts to root them out time after time. Ultimately Ner'zhul's war against the nerubians was won by attrition. With the aid of the sinister dreadlords and innumerable undead warriors, the Lich King invaded Azjol-Nerub and brought its subterranean temples crashing down upon the spider lords' heads.

[page 2042]
next_page=2043
text=Though the nerubians were immune to his plague, Ner'zhul's growing necromantic powers allowed him to raise the spider-warriors' corpses and bend them to his will. As a testament to their tenacity and fearlessness, Ner'zhul adopted the nerubians' distinctive architectural style for his own fortresses and structures.

[page 2043]
text=Left to rule his kingdom unopposed, the Lich King began preparing for his true mission in the world. Reaching out into the human lands with his vast consciousness, the Lich King called out to any dark soul that would listen....

[page 2101]
next_page=2102
text=Even weakened as he was, Arthas ultimately outmaneuvered Illidan and reached the Frozen Throne first. Using his runeblade, Frostmourne, Arthas shattered the Lich King's icy prison and thereby released Ner'zhul's enchanted helm and breastplate.

[page 2102]
next_page=2103
text=Arthas placed the unimaginably powerful helm on his head and became the new Lich King. Ner'zhul and Arthas' spirits fused into a single mighty being, just as Ner'zhul had always planned. Illidan and his troops were forced to flee back to Outland in disgrace, while Arthas became one of the most powerful entities the world had ever known.

[page 2103]
text=Currently Arthas, the new and immortal Lich King, resides in Northrend

[page 2311]
text=This intact pteradon skeleton was recovered from the remote Un'Goro Crater. Based on the skeletal structure, it is clear that this specific genus has not yet been encountered. This skeleton could have been preserved for any number of centuries beneath the region's rich soil.
text=

[page 2371]
next_page=2372
text=The Annals of Darrowshire
text=
text=Darrowshire, named from the Darrowmere Lake to its west, is a village tucked into the southern foothills of Lordaeron.  Known for humble yet hardworking residents, Darrowshire stayed in the background of Lordaeron history until the Second War.
text=
text=Heroes were made during that war.  And heroes were lost.
text=

[page 2372]
next_page=2373
text=The Battle of Darrowshire
text=
text=The Battle of Darrowshire took place in the middle of the Second War, when scourge forces rampaged across Lordaeron.  Darrowshire was cut off from the bulk of Alliance forces, but the town was bolstered by a company of troops, a contingent of paladins of the Silver Hand, and a staunch group of local militia led by Captain Joseph Redpath.

[page 2373]
next_page=2374
text=The Scourge's first assaults on Darrowshire were sparce.  Small groups of marauding skeletons and corpses wandered the outskirts of the village and were repelled.
text=
text=But the Scourge were not balked by the defender's tenacity, and responded in kind

[page 2374]
next_page=2375
text=The Defenders weakened, but were relieved by paladins, disciples of the Silver Hand.  Their leader, Davil Crokford, was a native of Darrowshire.  He brought his followers to the village when he heard of the impending attack, and together with the defenders they held back the servants of Horgus.
text=
text=When Horgus himself entered the battle, he met with Davil.  For many minutes they fought and Davil eventually prevailed, but he suffered a mortal wound and died soon after defeating the ghoul lord.

[page 2375]
next_page=2376
text=The battle continued, and Captain Redpath led his militia bravely.  And it might have been won, had the captain not been corrupted by the death knight Marduk the Black.
text=
text=In the middle of the fray Marduk rode up to Redpath, and with black magic he tore loose Redpath's spirit, twisting it into an evil shadow of the brave captain.

[page 2376]
text=The corrupted Captain Redpath then spread his evil taint among the defenders of Darrowshire, who betrayed their allies and slaughtered them.  They then turned on the town of Darrowshire and killed all who hid in their homes.
text=
text=The remaining scourge army, along with the corrupted spirit of Captain Redpath, then left the ravaged village of Darrowshire and tore into Lordaeron, adding to the pain and death of the Second War.

[page 2377]
next_page=2378
text=The Annals of Darrowshire
text=
text=Darrowshire, named from the Darrowmere Lake to its west, is a village tucked into the southern foothills of Lordaeron.  Known for humble yet hardworking residents, Darrowshire stayed in the background of Lordaeron history until the Second War.
text=
text=Heroes were made during that war.  And heroes were lost.

[page 2378]
next_page=2379
text=The Battle of Darrowshire
text=
text=The Battle of Darrowshire took place in the middle of the Second War, when scourge forces rampaged across Lordaeron.  Darrowshire was cut off from the bulk of Alliance forces, but the town was bolstered by a company of troops, a contingent of paladins of the Silver Hand, and a staunch group of local militia led by Captain Joseph Redpath.

[page 2379]
next_page=2380
text=The Scourge's first assaults on Darrowshire were sparce.  Small groups of marauding skeletons and corpses wandered the outskirts of the village and were easily defeated.
text=
text=But the Scourge must sensed the defender's tenacity, and responded in kind

[page 2380]
next_page=2381
text=The Defenders weakened, but were relieved by paladins, disciples of the Silver Hand.  Their leader, Davil Crokford, was a native of Darrowshire.  He brought his followers to the village when he heard of the impending attack, and together with the defenders they held back the servants of Horgus.
text=
text=When Horgus himself entered the battle, he met with Davil.  For many minutes they fought and Davil eventually prevailed, but he suffered a mortal wound and died soon after defeating the ghoul lord.

[page 2381]
next_page=2382
text=The battle continued, and Captain Redpath led his militia bravely.  And it might have been won, had the captain not been corrupted by the death knight Marduk the Black.
text=
text=In the middle of the fray Marduk rode up to Redpath, and with black magic he tore loose Redpath's spirit, twisting it into an evil shadow of the brave captain.

[page 2382]
next_page=2383
text=The corrupted Captain Redpath then spread his evil taint among the defenders of Darrowshire, who betrayed their allies and slaughtered them.  They then turned on the town of Darrowshire and killed all who hid in their homes.
text=
text=The remaining scourge army, along with the corrupted spirit of Captain Redpath, then left the ravaged village of Darrowshire and tore into Lordaeron, adding to the pain and death of the Second War.

[page 2383]
next_page=2384
text=The Fate of Horgus the Ravager
text=
text=Horgus the Ravager fell at the Battle of Darrowshire.  But the evil within him was not fully spent.  The victorious Scourge forces removed his skull from the battlefield of Darrowshire, carrying it with them to sow dread among the living they faced.
text=
text=Days later, the company of Scourge who possessed the head were defeated by Silver Hand Paladins.  Horgus' head was cast into Blackwood Lake.

[page 2384]
next_page=2385
text=The Fate of Marduk the Black
text=
text=Marduk survived the Second War, causing great death and suffering with his foul, rune-laden sword.  Although Marduk still lives, his sword was lost in a battle near Corin's Crossing.  A dwarf captain shattered the sword on his enchanted shield, forcing Marduk to flee the field and winning the day for the Alliance.
text=
text=Marduk's sword sank into the earth and corrupted it, eating a gorge into the land, now known as the Infectis Scar.

[page 2385]
next_page=2386
text=The Fate of Davil Lightforge
text=
text=Davil Lightforge died at the Battle of Darrowshire, but his bravery inspired the Alliance throughout the war.
text=
text=His book, his paladin's libram, was recovered by Scarlet Crusade troops.  It now resides in the town hall of the Scarlet Crusade controlled Hearthglen, often read by crusaders eager to draw from Davil's strength.

[page 2386]
next_page=2391
text=The Fate of Joseph Redpath
text=
text=Joseph Redpath was killed during the Battle of Darrowshire.  His spirit was corrupted and took new shape, and this new creature spread great evil in Lordaeron.
text=
text=At Gahrron's Withering, east of Andorhal, the corrupted Redpath was finally defeated by Alliance forces.  His shield still rests near the barn of the plagued farmstead, and Scourge minions are still drawn to the memory of his evil.

[page 2391]
text=The Fate of Carlin Redpath
text=
text=Brother to Captain Joseph Redpath, Carlin fell during the battle of Darrowshire.  But although terribly wounded, he was not slain.
text=
text=Days after the battle, agents of the Argen Dawn found Carlin wandering, weak from thirst and fever, near Corin's Crossing.  They tended to his wounds and brought him to the Light's Hope Chapel.
text=
text=Grateful for their charity, Carlin joined the ranks of the Argent Dawn and now fights a battle of revenge against the Scourge.

[page 2551]
text=Layo:$B$BWe have received the generous help of this fine adventurer.  I have dispatched the adventurer to you in Silithus as a resource.  Please see that such a valuable resource does not go to waste in your efforts to unlock the secrets present there.  The Circle eagerly awaits news of progress.$B$BMay Cenarius watch over you...$BRabine

