tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4330692803682888352024-02-20T23:05:12.045-07:00The Rusty BladeWherein the musings of a casual gamer who loves his daily dose of WoW.Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-71103175468176862702013-06-07T18:43:00.000-07:002013-06-07T18:43:09.340-07:00Evolve or DieOk, a little ranting here.<br />
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I see in the blogging community a lot of disenchantment and readiness to leave the game. Couple this with the recent loss of subscriptions and a game that is now an elder in the industry, we see a lot of discontent. I understand it, people will always have issues with game changes. I know I get irritated from time to time as well.<br />
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BUT! Evolve or die. The game as it is now, is very different from when it first came out 9 years ago. It had to in order to survive. Player bases change, the MMO culture has changed. Developers understand this and evolve the game in accordance with it's paying customers. That's business. I left other games with no hard feelings because I didn't like the direction the game took. Those games still have a following and still get profits without me. I am not offended. It is a business in the end no matter how individuals feel.<br />
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Recently we have seen changes in the pvp realms, and in the near future the raiding realms. The changes are not always easy to take, but they can be workable. How many old veterans remember when there was no cross server tech and had to wait for hours just to get into a single instance? I remember pre BC how hard it was leveling in greens and rarely seeing an instance, missing out on a lot of content. It's a lot easier now. The Flex system may give more people the opportunity to raid in a meaningful way. It does require a little work (god forbid that 4 letter word) of the player base to make acquaintances to build teams that meet when possible, but so what? Before he went to college, my son had created such a network of friends that he could fill any raid spot necessary to get a raid formed. This was due to his work. He knew that not everyone could be at a raid every time. Real life is real life. So he made his successes by doing a little leg work. In doing so he was a valued member of his guild and never had a raid canceled. That was because he felt that the game owed him nothing other than the opportunity of enjoyment. He did the work to make the game more enjoyable. This by the way while holding a 4.0 GPA in school, doing his chores and being productive. He wasn't lazy. No one told him to do this, he just did it.<br />
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What I'm getting at here is that by and large the game is there, but players need to work within the rule set or walk away. It's ok to walk away, but there are still so many opportunities out there to enjoy WoW.<br />
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It's time to evolve with the game. Run with the flow and see where it takes you. Keep an open mind, don't be stubborn. Give things a chance, you might be surprised. Yes there are times I bitch about mechanics. It's not that I'm opposed the the changes but just wish things would be tweaked to make them work better beyond theory.<br />
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This is my 2 cents for what it's worth.<br />
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Have fun out there!Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-1406885676629942212013-05-31T07:45:00.000-07:002013-05-31T07:45:45.674-07:00Patch 5.3 PvP role check BULLSHIT!!!Ok,<br />
My rant for the day. The idea behind a role check in Battlegrounds seems like a sound idea...theoretically. In practice though...EPIC FAIL! Ya I said it. People have gamed the system and while they check in as healers...they don't bother dropping heals approximately 60% of the BG's I've been on both horde and alliance. But worse still, the mechanic is supposed to ensure a balanced number of classes are represented on both sides so one side doesn't have unfair advantage over the other. again...FAIL! After playing approximately 30 BG's, more than a few times I would walk in:<br />
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My side: 1 healer, 2 Tanks, X DPS<br />
Opposing side: 2 tanks, X DPS, 3+ Healers<br />
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Mathmatics anyone? I would hope my luck wasn't that terrible but it seems of late it is. Anyone else seeing this as an issue?<br />
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Normally I try to give things a chance but really, this is irritating. I'd rather the old system was back where I knew how I was gonna be screwed in advance. But more importantly, I really wish that if players are gonna role check as healers, they actually drop heals instead of going on dps rampages then bitch about how they aren't being supported in the BG's. My answer, HEAL YOU SORRY LAME ASS BASTARD !!! I promise if you do, I'll do everything I can to keep you alive.<br />
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Nuff SaidMhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-21706523353015572152013-05-28T17:17:00.000-07:002013-05-28T17:17:04.641-07:00Paladin Progress, Favorite Toons, and other RamblingsWell,<br />
I've spent the last several days leveling my Paladin Ahrias. He is Prot specced and all the way up until he hit Cata Dungeons he was wrecking the 5 mans during leveling phases. Then he hit a bench mark where DPS folks were tearing his aggro meters to shreds. I've done a bit of research for 5.3 to ensure at least the spec was right. Gear would still be a problem for a bit though as the proper tanking gear isn't really available at this point. I kind of tapered off on Dungeoning for the moment until I can rehasg what is going on aggro wise. But, I've really gotten into the storyline for MoP. I hadn't taken any of my other toons this far into the game as I was dreading the gear disparity. Still, I actually started to take my time again in reading through quest lines and picking up the lore as I could.<br />
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Throughout this process Ahrias has traveled all over Azeroth, with the exception of the "Waterworld" Cata phase. I never enjoyed that area and easily by passed it. Hyjal as always was a blast and the Highlands were also a lot of fun to roll through. I didn't do every quest, just the ones I liked or felt were relevant to his persona. His Jewel crafting has kind of hit a wall between 505 to 520, the next major breach, but that will come in time for me. At now lv 86 soon to be 87 he feels pretty formidable and carries the weight of his Holy Warrior status well. Over all, I've been very happy with his progress and enjoyed the time he has traveled about.<br />
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So why talk about it? Well, Ahrias is the first toon I've really taken a liking to. I'm not all into the holy preachy warrior thing, but Ahrias strikes a special chord with me. I've been developing a persona from the immersion perspective in fleshing him out to be something more than a pixel action figure/doll to play with. My wife can easily tell you I hire and fire alts so fast, she looses track of what I am working on at the moment. Though I keep the names I like the most on standby, very few ever make it past lv. 30 before they stop resonating with me. It's odd how I have grown fond of the old, grey eyed, silver maned paladin. He has started to take a life and personality of his own.<br />
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I don't really get into RP anymore, though perhaps I'll crack it again sometime. What I will say is, Ahrias as a project has come to life for me. In the end, he is what I enjoy about WoW. The creation, the progression and the development of something I can take away as fond memories of glory. I personally think this is a part of why even old veterans who grumble about the state of the game still play. It's not the whole reason, but I figure it is a part of it. I get lost in the story and I look back through his eyes and see what has been accomplished, and what remains to be done. He embodies some of who I am in the real world, and many things which I aspire to be in attitude, execution and overall bad assery. So, while I have plenty of other toons, many which umm...well, die by my hand more often than by the dangers of Azeroth, Ahrias has stayed on and above the rest.<br />
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So, what toons have you my fellow readers call your personal favorite? Are they main class? Alt? RP? What makes you enjoy the special ones? Do drop a line when you get the chance, I always love a good conversation over ale, whiskey, or even some well brewed tea! Till next time, may your bags be loaded with gold and may glory be showered upon you!<br />
<br />Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-34939314901874914132013-05-22T10:05:00.000-07:002013-05-22T10:05:57.950-07:005.3 PvP RageWell,<br />
5.3 is up and running folks. It's largest selling point (the pvp changes) has also been it's most contentious one. There is a lot of debate on the effects of the baseline 65% resiliency, the capping of gear and the PvE gear in end game BG's.<br />
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The bickering seems to rage on as furious as Vol'jin's and Garrosh's attempts at each other's throats. Speaking of which, interesting storyline changes out there as well. Drop back down to some of the beginning zones in Durotan, seems Garrosh has put his uber elite Ko'Kran guards in place to keep things "peaceful". Rebellion is in the air folks. Wouldn't it be a hoot to see the Darkspear drop from the Horde roles and run a little with the Alliance? Holy crap that would have me rolling. The Tauren from what I've heard ain't too happy bout the situation either.<br />
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But back to my original thoughts. With all the extreme rage going on about mechanics changes, I gotta laugh at some of the inflexibility of folks. In the end, I think it's more important to play out the mechanics, do a little theory crafting, test said theories...then make recommendations. Taking a black and white stance withing 24 hours of live game play seems pretty stupid to me without some extensive testing the waters. I myself am still neutral about the 5.3 pvp changes.<br />
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The one thing I am a little disappointed in is homogenizing gear. Look, Raiders work hard in their skill areas. PvPers do as well. There should in my opinion be specific differences between endgame pvp and pve gear. Allowing them to blur seems pointless to me. PvE folks don't spend hours grinding through battle grounds earning points to gain gear. To me, I think it's not fair to see them gain any sort of meaningful edge in a BG. Yes, I am partial to PvP even though I suck at it lol. I just think that the gear should be different because the skill focus is different.<br />
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As to the rest of 5.3, well time will tell. I am looking forward to yet another BG choice. I have always really liked seeing different battlegrounds. I know many of them seem to overlap in objective styles, but seeing new terrain and new mechanics is always a joy.<br />
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So folks, what are your thoughts on the mechanics changes and gear changes? Good or bad, be specific if you can as I am always up for a spirited debate. I'd be interested especially if factual numbers can be employed..not just this sucks mentality.<br />
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On a last personal opinion point:<br />
For every change there is a way to counter and defeat it. Yes it takes time to figure out...but no system is completely one sided or another. It takes time to figure out how to beat a nerf or a boon to one side or another. Keep that in mind the next time you hit the BG's.<br />
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Till next time, may your pockets be lined with gold and Glory be showered upon you! Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-3117579153649851822013-05-12T21:27:00.002-07:002013-05-12T21:27:35.399-07:00An Epic Sword in The Sunken Temple<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0iP3vHmrI8MTnFmgVBq31PzDbGrT_dEshC7cpvumGwbjG88RKEuYZbWBzfMExtIzURSeDGH-V5TAwNAJSXj4KUvLgUvjaS48a1muOear6OE9qr6Kqp55Y7ucPIRQWY-3KhvJncElnGPK/s1600/WoWScrnShot_051213_231718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0iP3vHmrI8MTnFmgVBq31PzDbGrT_dEshC7cpvumGwbjG88RKEuYZbWBzfMExtIzURSeDGH-V5TAwNAJSXj4KUvLgUvjaS48a1muOear6OE9qr6Kqp55Y7ucPIRQWY-3KhvJncElnGPK/s400/WoWScrnShot_051213_231718.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Dragon's Call Blade</td></tr>
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So, I couldn't resist bragging rights here. Just got done doing a random dungeon as I am leveling up my Paladin. I get queued up and end up in The Sunken Temple and got this beauty of a Sword: <a href="http://www.wowhead.com/item=10847/dragons-call" target="_blank">The Dragon's Call</a> . All I can say is for a lowbie sword, this thing rocks! I haven't gotten the whelp to proc yet, but still you gotta love the simple things like this to entertain your day. After all, how often do you get an epic drop during your lowbie leveling days?Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-46457241537086170962013-05-12T08:21:00.001-07:002013-05-12T08:21:21.386-07:00Hunting for Rares in The BadlandsSo just my luck, I am out getting more mithril to get to my next sets of jewel crafting (which by the way is my favorite for crafting out of all of the skills) and what do I meet up with? Not one, not two, but <strong><u>THREE </u></strong>rare monsters which I think can be tamable. If not they are still worth the hunt. All of these were met within 5 minutes of playtime. Now, first if you are hunting rares, do yourself a favor and get the Silverdragon addon from Curse.com . It's definitely worth your time if you are hunting down rare pets or Mobs.<br />
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So to it, here are some quick screenshots of what I found out there in the Badlands:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabJ0sj4CyI0X3V2SyKK_iKDiOiBeJdtNFAm-9tjZQmHCvYE7xIpCxUzPpyXktU4GfTsyNU2WD-yEiL4lMj9TdRHqF-z20piGAn4KEX1N9Lu5M6koR_XCduJB202wut-cydXU6P8xMlVzZ/s1600/WoWScrnShot_051213_094524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabJ0sj4CyI0X3V2SyKK_iKDiOiBeJdtNFAm-9tjZQmHCvYE7xIpCxUzPpyXktU4GfTsyNU2WD-yEiL4lMj9TdRHqF-z20piGAn4KEX1N9Lu5M6koR_XCduJB202wut-cydXU6P8xMlVzZ/s320/WoWScrnShot_051213_094524.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vorticus</td></tr>
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Fun lil dragon lizard. Not sure if he is tamable, but still and interesting quick fight and definitely a cool hunt! He is pretty daunting to look at, but a skilled adventurer can take him down at level with no major difficulties. If he isn't tamable, Blizz needs to be smacked on the nose as this one would be well worth having as a hunter pet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCFiuRkWTXmXBmILq9l3e7n4LOir2ltXOiKMMJGdg89b2Nrx7LEPKtjCiPZUWPbSRDs68sy4AIHBqxszuoT0dzot7i1-v_vMY-6l5zn9AZNjVQoKnm23iEgEtfodXkCkvCgEDXccRN0C5/s1600/WoWScrnShot_051213_094632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCFiuRkWTXmXBmILq9l3e7n4LOir2ltXOiKMMJGdg89b2Nrx7LEPKtjCiPZUWPbSRDs68sy4AIHBqxszuoT0dzot7i1-v_vMY-6l5zn9AZNjVQoKnm23iEgEtfodXkCkvCgEDXccRN0C5/s320/WoWScrnShot_051213_094632.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serkett</td></tr>
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Now this fine devil of a Scorpid is named Serkett. He loves dropping poison splashes all of the place, so watch your footing. Imagine having this Albino Scorpid rolling with you out to the Battlegrounds! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0Fb4qD31kX9wzDSytdkmmdRfDu-zgdvzoWeQTL2SPISQ_bgxgrF3Q31gBs6iynVRxaXPA12ejy2A37lROZDkZU20bPeXykH8Tge_riUUmMzvKP6DtIJT0XT6BbwN4Mu-MsI88S8adjXC/s1600/WoWScrnShot_051213_094751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0Fb4qD31kX9wzDSytdkmmdRfDu-zgdvzoWeQTL2SPISQ_bgxgrF3Q31gBs6iynVRxaXPA12ejy2A37lROZDkZU20bPeXykH8Tge_riUUmMzvKP6DtIJT0XT6BbwN4Mu-MsI88S8adjXC/s320/WoWScrnShot_051213_094751.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kallix</td></tr>
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Evil beastie here. Another hunter favorite I'll be willing to bet.<br />
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Well fellow adventurers, if you find yourself out in the Badlands, look these fellows up if nothing else, then for bragging rights on your up and coming adventurers. And who knows? Maybe you will take on of these fine beasts home to show off the the world.<br />
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Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-17523602069936591082013-05-12T07:02:00.001-07:002013-05-12T07:05:42.205-07:00Exploring Azeroth...Caer Darrow (Scholomance)It's common for players in WoW these days to rush through instances and link into LFD to level and gear as they progress. Sadly, there is so much lore in this game which has been forgotton. One of the things I still enjoy doing is exploring and linking the past of Azeroth with what is currently going on. To this end, while I am out and about I really enjoy finding little tidbits and information during my travels. To that end, I think it's important for players to enjoy the rich world that has been constructed for them.<br />
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So, today while out doing a mining run with my Paladin Ahrius, I also was finishing his exploration of the Western Plaguelands. Lake Darrowmere was my last hit. Now, I rememebr back in the pre Burning Crusade days when Scholomance was one of the tougher places to roll through. It also had some of the heaviest concentration of treasures that gleaned tons of gold (well for back then anyhow). But few have returned to the outlaying areas of the instance. Now it may not seem like much...but there is a place here worth your time as a crafter to hit up, hence the exploration piece.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFJtq0KqAQqm86yVDntGEZKq2ZKGtly6HdVuu8Q9Fg7MqyymvyIZ9L71YckFlc-yBLvcmz5f4fSyj0uouQgFJ0JNDvPDpKKr9-oV5nPHKjWo6ge9VAphHtBDlGZ2P7od6yFjCLO8NPnGp/s1600/WoWScrnShot_051213_072849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFJtq0KqAQqm86yVDntGEZKq2ZKGtly6HdVuu8Q9Fg7MqyymvyIZ9L71YckFlc-yBLvcmz5f4fSyj0uouQgFJ0JNDvPDpKKr9-oV5nPHKjWo6ge9VAphHtBDlGZ2P7od6yFjCLO8NPnGp/s320/WoWScrnShot_051213_072849.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the north side of Lake Darrowmere</td></tr>
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Now before I get into the actual bonus of coming into Caer Darrow, let's take a moment for a quick history lesson which I got from the all famous WoWwiki. Please understand, everything here was lifted from WoWwiki for your information purposes only:<br />
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<span class="mw-headline" id="Ancient_History">Ancient History</span></h3>
The island where the ruined town of Caer Darrow now sits was long ago the keeping place of an ancient runestone, known as the <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Runestone" title="Runestone">Runestone of Caer Darrow</a>. The runestone served as an ancient monolith sacred to the high elves of <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Quel%27Thalas" title="Quel'Thalas">Quel'Thalas</a>. The artifact is said to have been erected by elven druids, a description which provides the only indication in <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Retcon" title="Retcon">lore</a> that any high elves ever followed a druidic path. Runestones were later changed to have served as a barrier so that the <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Burning_Legion" title="Burning Legion">Burning Legion</a> would be unaware of the high elves' arcane magic. <br />
The island has also been the site of one or more human fortifications dating back to the days of the empire of <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Arathor" title="Arathor">Arathor</a>. <br />
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<span class="mw-headline" id="The_Second_War">The Second War</span></h3>
During the <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Second_War" title="Second War">Second War</a>, the island was invaded by the Horde, the fortress sacked, and the sacred <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Runestone" title="Runestone">runestone</a> captured. The stone was hewn into pieces which were used to create the <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Altars_of_Storms" title="Altars of Storms">Altars of Storms</a>, arcane structures which allowed <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Gul%27dan" title="Gul'dan">Gul'dan</a> to instill magic into the Horde's ogre allies. <br />
When <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Uther_Lightbringer" title="Uther Lightbringer">Uther Lightbringer</a> embarked for the isle on a mission of mercy to aid and comfort the survivors of the bloody raid, he was <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/The_Battle_at_Darrowmere" title="The Battle at Darrowmere">ambushed</a> by privateers from <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Alterac" title="Alterac">Alterac</a>. In the naval battle that followed, some of the sailors were captured; during questioning in Lordaeron's capital, they confessed their nation's treachery to the Alliance, leading to Alterac's eventual <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Betrayal_and_the_Destruction_of_Alterac" title="Betrayal and the Destruction of Alterac">ruin</a>. <br />
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<span class="mw-headline" id="The_Barovs_and_Scholomance">The Barovs and Scholomance</span></h3>
Following the Second War, the fortress at Caer Darrow was restored; the rule of the island by the Barov family dates back to at least this time. The Barovs were extremely wealthy, owning the land which comprised Caer Darrow, <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Brill" title="Brill">Brill</a>, <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Southshore" title="Southshore">Southshore</a>, and <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Tarren_Mill" title="Tarren Mill">Tarren Mill</a>. Not content with their enormous holdings, the Barovs entered into a deal with the human mage Kel'Thuzad, leader of the Cult of the Damned. The once opulent House of Barov became the horrific <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Scholomance" title="Scholomance">Scholomance</a>, a school of necromancy. The spirits of many of the island's inhabitants remain, seeking justice for the horrific wrongs committed there. <br />
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<span class="mw-headline" id="Fall_of_the_town">Fall of the town</span></h3>
The people of Caer Darrow survived within their small town for several months after the fall of <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Lordaeron" title="Lordaeron">Lordaeron</a>. When the <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Scourge" title="Scourge">Scourge</a> invaded <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Andorhal" title="Andorhal">Andorhal</a> however, a large host attacked Caer Darrow. Aided by troops from <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Scholomance" title="Scholomance">Scholomance</a>, it was then that the town finally came to an end. <br />
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<span class="mw-headline" id="Current_State">Current State</span></h3>
The island and surrounding lake have become lifeless and still. Only meager fish are still able to survive in the murky waters and the towering fortress seems to suck hope itself from the surrounding air. Every year or so new students can be seen entering the manor, or graduates grimly sulking out. Only ghosts of the town's former inhabitants remain, only visible with the <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Spectral_Essence" title="Spectral Essence">spectral essence</a> given by the manor's former servants. The townspeople seem to be cursed to re-live Caer Darrow's happiest day for all eternity, the visitation of <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Uther_the_Lightbringer" title="Uther the Lightbringer">Uther the Lightbringer</a>.<br />
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Ok, that was your quick history lesson. The cool part though was finding <a href="http://www.wowwiki.com/Magnus_Frostwake"><span class="npclink ajaxttlink" jquery18204971055588500888="230">Magnus Frostwake</span></a> in one of the outlaying buildings. He has a couple of really nice Alchamy and Blacksmithing recipes that are excellent for lower level gear. It is worth your time if you collect recipes or just need a couple of really solid pieces of gear to come out and visit the old spectre. He is a friendly sort as ghosts go, and his prices are...well reasonable heh heh heh.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhppQwwSGk-idcrW9p5_im1wFavifLSp5JITnPQJ0NgvyUZJLWeyJaZHehEHkgcS5Y9JxxflDthLbKY6t6JZ6kUFYsDx0wzavZWCtrRvKoUjy0zcbPi83mQX4QmBLhe6EiXpdhMZ7CP1jPJ/s1600/WoWScrnShot_051213_072151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhppQwwSGk-idcrW9p5_im1wFavifLSp5JITnPQJ0NgvyUZJLWeyJaZHehEHkgcS5Y9JxxflDthLbKY6t6JZ6kUFYsDx0wzavZWCtrRvKoUjy0zcbPi83mQX4QmBLhe6EiXpdhMZ7CP1jPJ/s400/WoWScrnShot_051213_072151.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipes worth your time if you are an alchemist or Blacksmith</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, in the end, don't discount these old places folks, you just might be passing up some recipes or gear you never knew existed. In the end, Azeroth still has a ton of things to offer..if you look hard enough. It's no always about rushing to the end game, but rather the journey and the roads you take to get there. <br />
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Till next time, may your pockets be lined with gold, ans glory be brought to your name!Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-73200431995171264032013-05-09T05:43:00.003-07:002013-05-09T05:45:49.139-07:00Remember back in the day? Player Base Culture Then and NowPeople change, they row, they come and go. Games do the same. WoW is certainly no different here. What I find interesting is how the player base and attitudes have changed since my return from back in 2011. For that matter, going all the way back to pre TBC days. I here the constant laments of how much mroe difficult it was back in the day compared to now and how the game has gone EZ mode. <br />
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I have also heard a ton of doom sayers claim the deathknell of the game due to a loss of 1.8 million players this last quarter. Hmm...that's a huge number and <strong><u>WOULD</u></strong> destroy any other MMO. Ok, the player base has declined. The game is 9 years old. Most MMOs completely die out after about 6 years...tops. For an Elder of a game, I'd say it's no where near life support stage. I've played a lot of lesser MMO's in my sabbaticals from WoW and here is what I find:<br />
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<strong>~ First 90 days</strong>, population boom. People burning through content, figuring out the game mechanics, leveling battle areas into virtual glass ashtrays....<br />
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<strong>~ 90 days to 6 months;</strong> Players have gotten pretty comfortable but the new shinies aren't as shiny anymore. Progression raids have been fullfilled, pvp brackets have been maxed and...what is there to do again? Oh yeah, try out new classes and spec trees etc. BUT...player base starts to go away due largely to discontent of what the product promised vs. what it delivered upon launch.<br />
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<strong>~ 6 months to Year 1</strong>; Die hard niche players and guilds hang on together due to friendships or progression. But, subs decline at this point. Sometimes fast...othertimes slow. But, the first doomsayers make thier mark in the forums. they blame everything upon the dev teams and how no one listens to the players. This creates discontent and foments general toxic attitudes that create forum wars and often turn off new prospective players that haven't tried the game out. Ahhh the joys of the Mob mentality. Now, some companies have money to push out new Xpacs and new content. Of course in thier rush to push out the content, they innevitably screw up coding and make life hell on the player base. which repeats the cycloe of toxic attitudes. <br />
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<strong>~ Year 2;</strong> Only the die hards remains, but by this time we start to see servers chut down, merge, and game becomes life support for the curious and the few fans. Players will traverse for miles and miles without seeing another face. PvP becomes non existant. Instance groups become rare occurances. Less meaningful content gets pushed out. This is about the mark in my experiences where a game dies off. <br />
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Now...World of Warcraft<strong><u>....9 years,</u></strong> new content on reasonable time tables. Not everything appeals to ALL players. But there is enough variety within the game to cater to just about everyone. 8 Million subs still active. For a Grandfather of a game that hasn't really updated it's graphics base I gotta say hats off to the business model. It works. It is still a juggernaut, just a very matured one. <br />
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So why all the glum feelings of loss and what not? <br />
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In my opinion, it has to do with the changing virtual culture base. It also has to do with folks just plain old moving on. There in lies the key. When we develop relationships, even virtual ones, there is an emotional investment that most people are very uncomfortable tlaking about. Those who have been around have seen thier old buddies move on to other things. And the new player base (relatively speaking withing say Cata to MoP) has a very different attitude in progression, challenge vs. reward and social interaction. Now some may blame this on game design. I don't think that is entirely it though. There is more to it than simple design mechanics exploitation. It is the culture of the people that has also changed. Old veterans remembered long ago glories and how much harder it was to obtain things as simple as a mount. They remembered the difficulty of putting together 25 - 40 member raid teams and keeping them focused. These veterans remember even simple dungeons requiring skill vs. BoA gear run throughs. Yet now, many of these challenges are overcome simply to level fast to see the End Game. <br />
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New players want everything now...and <strong>FAST</strong>. Attention spans have significantly shortened. Get it now or I'm out. And social relationships? What the heck is that? These are some of the challenges as aged as WoW is has to deal with. So there is a cultural clashing here that I feel often isnt mentioned.<br />
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In the end, the game has to remain fun for people. I actually had to re evaluate WHY I played and WHAT I enjoyed, player culture be damned. As I write this, I am looking at my toon list which is growing. Some of these toons I have rerolled already, but 3 or 4 are definite keepers. <br />
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I love WoW, and though I may periodically take breaks from it, I enjoy what it has to offer. I look forward to the future of the game as it approaches it's first Decade mark. But if you find yourself at a loss, rememebr not so much that you HAVE to do ABC in that order, but to skip and play a bit. <br />
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Till next round, I'll see ya out there in AzerothMhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-11173923252795805752013-05-08T06:27:00.000-07:002013-05-08T06:27:18.062-07:00My returnWell, after a rather long hiatus I decided to return back to WoW. About 4 months ago I decided I had done everything I wanted to do in Age of Conan and shut down my Hyborian Rage blog. The game was as always an epic vista of beautifully rendered landscapes and epic battles. But, there just wasn't enough player base left to enjoy the game the way I used to. Furthermore, the community had become highly toxic. The final straw was that I ran a raiding guild there that due to interpersonal conflicts split and died. It was a good run, but I finally closed the gates to my Keep and retired my characters. I had become tired of waiting for game fixes and updated crafting systems so it was time to pack my saddlebags and allow my little town to live or die on its own. No regrets, just time to move on as many do in the MMO community.<br />
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Jump forward to now. My wife and I decided to revive a bank guild of ours and just make it our own little place. We don't have members, we don't have serious goals, just playing for fun. It's actually a lot more fun this way for us. We still interact with folks that we choose as friends, but we stopped dealing with the stress of guild management and social drama. Now we pick and choose what we want to do. No burn out, just having fun in a solo/couple guild.<br />
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So re rerolled most of our toons and started from scratch. Well, more or less scratch. We had some BoA gear and a small lv 1 guild with a couple of bank tabs. Since starting over, our little project has gained us an additional 2 bank tabs and guild lv 5. Doesn't sound like much but then we don't play it as hard as we used to. The first couple of months back we didn't even work that guild. Most times I guild hopped on Emerald Dream trying to find that right magic or place. I met a lot of fun folks both Horde and Alliance. Many were very helpful and sociable. I just didn't get the same feeling per se. A couple of guilds wanted to power level me and get me up to their end game but it wasn't really in my nature to do so. So I drifted a bit and finally settled down with my wife to just run what tso people could do together.<br />
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To date, it's actually been pretty fun. On the pvp side, we both made prot warriors and rofl'ed at the nerd rage of being double shield slammed. I know a lot of folks hate this but to be honest, eventually it will get nerfed and some other class will be flavor of the month. In the meantime, we just have fun with it and she has been having a blast there when we work side by side.<br />
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So there it is. I have returned as the bedraggled stranger into Azeroth where very few remember who I am or what I have done in the past. I plan on writing more here again and hope perhaps a few will read up and comment. I suppose we shall see. But anyways, the doors to The Rusty Blade have been re opened and the bar is restocked. Hail to the old veterans, and cheers to the new folk!Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-15728674975938235802011-11-21T12:50:00.000-07:002011-11-21T12:50:36.978-07:00Change of PaceHey all, still playing WoW on a regular basis but decided to try out an old favorite lore wise, Age of Conan. No I haven't quit WoW in any way at all. Still love my guild and enjoy playing my dwarf hunter. But I am working on a side project for Age of Conan and writing about my experiences with it now compared to a couple of years ago. anyways, I added and additional Blog, Hyborean Rage for this project. You can find it on my additional pages at the top of the blog. For the purest, I apologize for branching out and enjoying other games. For those just interested, check it out. I know a lot of people do not like Age of Conan, but give it half a chance, you may still want to try it out in it's current state. If nothing else, check out my opinions and feel free to post as you will. In the meantime, Grimrhok is getting a little rested xp till the new pvp season drops.Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-79790551148229798312011-11-14T00:44:00.001-07:002011-11-14T01:09:14.558-07:00Why roll on a pvp server?<a href="http://spinksville.wordpress.com/2011/11/14/do-we-really-need-to-separate-pve-and-pvp-servers/">Spinks</a> put up an interesting thought today as to whether or not there is a need at all for separate pvp/pvp servers. Of course I had a Wall of text in reply to it. I'll let you guys figure that out. But a point is brought up. Why do pvper's roll on a pvp server if the majority of the time they just sit and wait for BG qeues? I like open world pvp. Can't help it and I wont apologize. What I do wonder is what the point of rolling on a pvp server if you aren't gonna go out there and mix it up? I know some will say the server is imbalanced. Got it. But then at least for WoW you can go to <a href="http://www.warcraftrealms.com/index.php">http://www.warcraftrealms.com/index.php</a> and see the over all population snapshot. If its close to being equal then there is a chance for world pvp. And the world is a sandbox. Motivated guilds can find reasons to go out there and fight. A little coordination between horde and alliance GM's can produce some epic battles over perceived terrain etc.<br />
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But now I gotta be a little honest here. I have to wonder why anyone who only wants pve rolls on a pvp server. I mean there are a bunch of pve servers to go have fun on. The "my friends are here" theory doesn't hold out very well. That's more a minority than anything. Also, PvE gets the most attention from the Dev teams of almost all the RPG MMOs out there. It's what makes them money. Why even complain if PvP servers exist. You have a choice. You are responsible and hopefully mature enough to make a thoughtful choice. So in the end, it's nobodies fault but your own. Mind you, as a pvper I do not condone asshattery and go to lengths to squash it where I can. I don't believe in greifing unless I was griefed first. Same with camping. But revenge? HELL YES! That is what world pvp is about and you know it whether you want to admit it or not.<br />
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So...Question...Why roll on a pvp server if you are a pvper and dont intend to mix it up in the world? <br />
If you are a pve'er seriously and honestly why did you roll on a pvp server and expect to be left alone?<br />
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Ok...my rant for the dayMhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-82701451287502556582011-11-11T14:49:00.000-07:002011-11-11T14:49:52.178-07:00WoW Raiders Hate Smokers and ParentsI ran across this <a href="http://us.battle.net/wow/en/forum/topic/3577368053?pg=1">thread</a> and it really irked me. I have to admit. You see at first it started out with the tired "I hate smokers because they stop the raid for 5 min". They are addicts right? Addicted to nicotine, oh so terrible and evil right? Hmmm......If you get mad at a 5 min break during a raid...aren't you the addict? Lets talk about this. Society frowns upon smoking today as almost a sin. Ooohhh your smoking your gonna die a terrible wracking painful death and your going to burden the population for health care....and oh yeah your cutting into my addiction of raid progression...WTF?!?!?!?!?! Look if you are on a 4 hour Armageddon raid run I got it...but an hourly smoke break/bio break or check on the kids break is human. as to vices...Mark Twain said it best:<br />
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I haven't a particle of confidence in a man who has no redeeming petty vices.<br />
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- <i>Mark Twain, a Biography</i><br />
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See the old man had it right. We all have vices, if we are honest about it I think. WoW in itself is a vice by the way. Especially to those driven towards progression. All I'm saying is, have a little understanding. 4 hours of my time is precious...5 minutes every hour shouldn't destroy your life...just sayin'.<br />
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Further more, the thread got worse, blaming parents for having to take care of their kids during the raids...FUCKING REALLY?!?!?!?!?!?<br />
People who are mature adults have responsibilities. They still like to have fun. They still enjoy the MMO Raiding, but seriously...some people have the audacity to blame parents for trying to pay attention to their young children while using a home friendly vice rather than leaving them alone with a babysitter while they go out and get drunk? Seriously? Ummm...social screw up here folks.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So it's the parents fault for loving their child but still wanting to have a little fun? Look I love WoW. It is my hobby in life. To see and make characters grow and progress. But even I got limits. If you are going to disrespect a parent for needing to take care of a crying baby periodically during a raiding marathon, your priorities are kinda really very anti social and immoral. Yes I am accusing you. Think about it! Use your friggen moral compass for Gods sakes!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok this was my rant. It's also my time to say if you gotta small vice like smoking, it's ok. Least you aren't driving home drunk and possibly killing someone. Second, if you are a parent single or not and you have to split your time between WoW and your real life responsibilities I applaud you for doing the right thing. Maybe parents need to unite together and screw the little arrogant pricks who disrespect you for taking responsibilities. SCREW EM!!!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nuff said for the moment!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have fun out there in Azeroth!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-72613726755208323592011-11-11T08:35:00.000-07:002011-11-11T08:35:39.541-07:00Thank you Veterans!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDnkhoBtu5ZJfXDFPleU9_IkIWDHr-wMj0WLajIB8zl78YakQw8Yv_URAvvU3245eZqCIvWcz0EC232IjGmQzDI6RDMNK0TTmFoyM6xXmt5Vc0RcGEcFModuDNi8FPzJ40QQAh7SnXhi_/s1600/veterans_day%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDnkhoBtu5ZJfXDFPleU9_IkIWDHr-wMj0WLajIB8zl78YakQw8Yv_URAvvU3245eZqCIvWcz0EC232IjGmQzDI6RDMNK0TTmFoyM6xXmt5Vc0RcGEcFModuDNi8FPzJ40QQAh7SnXhi_/s320/veterans_day%255B1%255D.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>This nation makes me proud. We have a colorful history, sometimes peaceful, other times bloody. One tradition that has always stood the test of time are those who answered the call to serve their nation and sacrifice time, family, indeed sometimes their very lives. They froze in rags on Valley Forge with the hopes of freedom. They fought for personal beliefs during our Civil War. Each of them slogged through the mud and blood of the trenches during WWI. During WWII so many gave their lives across the world by cannon and fire. During Korea they held the Pusan Perimeter. In Viet Nam, Soldiers fought even when many in their nation hated them for doing what their government ordered. Desert Storm, Mogadishu, Iraq and Afghanistan. The finest men and women who stand up to fight at their Country's behest give everything they got every day.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfOY2Fh9cDuFTAuMRlszceNPRTAJdUfE1TFFQMJfizpJ4qR8Qy3bV-Lsb48uFp5GkksCmBmbDIoLK48JcTI8Lqi9zDP1fXL7iBeInWKHg6zCA0PDlgPC3KO8ND-j4Gg7HdOvkQxuyT2Po-/s1600/eagle-bgimage-1%255B1%255D.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfOY2Fh9cDuFTAuMRlszceNPRTAJdUfE1TFFQMJfizpJ4qR8Qy3bV-Lsb48uFp5GkksCmBmbDIoLK48JcTI8Lqi9zDP1fXL7iBeInWKHg6zCA0PDlgPC3KO8ND-j4Gg7HdOvkQxuyT2Po-/s320/eagle-bgimage-1%255B1%255D.png" width="288" /></a></div>It is about sacrifice. It is about pride. But when Soldier's are getting shot at, bombed and bleeding, it's about their brotherhood. Countries don't matter at that point, only that guy or gal to your left and right. A Soldier doesn't charge a hill for glory, but only in hopes to finish the job and get back home. Soldiers are both boistrous and humble at the same time. Bravado takes the stress away and get them ready to do their job. But when you HONESTLY tell them thank you and let them know how important they are, most times they kinda get shy. Most times they get a little quiet and maybe remember a Brother or Sister they lost. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Mtc-xth6LSQgSoc4DMrDhdhrhElApkn9iY0mlRJh6VSgHmeqQD0QAjd0eQ1WRUkuwjdJKnkwGcYnhA_bPC1HPst80-mynRmXnO76aV37PEntE9gA6TyT6OUiM7yuSxy3Kgun28sr-O_F/s1600/veterans%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Mtc-xth6LSQgSoc4DMrDhdhrhElApkn9iY0mlRJh6VSgHmeqQD0QAjd0eQ1WRUkuwjdJKnkwGcYnhA_bPC1HPst80-mynRmXnO76aV37PEntE9gA6TyT6OUiM7yuSxy3Kgun28sr-O_F/s320/veterans%255B1%255D.jpg" width="287" /></a>So for all that have served through out the years in times of war and in times of peace. My deepest thanks. I especially thank those older guys from WWII through Viet Nam. You are a dieing breed, but one I looked up to as a child and still do so some 40 years later. You all were my mentors that shaped me into who I am today. After 15 years in the Army, 4 tours in the Middle East, I still look back to those who marched the grounds long before me. They give me comfort when everything is a mess. Knowing their strength of character and stubborness has made me keep going when I wanted to quit. So thanks to all those who mentored me and gave me the Priviledge to serve as well. Happy Veteran's Day wherever you may be.</div>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-75271877757570409242011-11-09T15:14:00.001-07:002011-11-09T15:14:10.690-07:00The Gaurdian Cub......So the critter is cute. I will prolly spend the little bit of real world money to go buy one. BUT I REFUSE TO BUY IT ON THE AH!!!!! The people who actually use digital gold for it....SUCKERZ!!!!! Now wait, you say....Mhorgrim aren't you the real sucker for buying one for real cash? Well no. You see, if I choose to buy something for real cash...under 20 bucks that's pure entertainment value, like 15 bucks a month for WoW, am I sucker for that? Not in my mind. But now see, my TIME is extremely important. If I pay to play this game, I don't want to sink that time into gaining anywhere between 5k to possibly 100k of digital gold into it. That's a crap load of time that is important to me, because it takes away from my enjoyment of 15 bucks a month. I'm by no means rich, but even a kid can save a few extra bucks for this pet. He won't ever get the time back though if he blows his/her 15 bucks a month farming the digital gold to buy a pet that can be bound only to one toon. Who really is the sucker in this? I spend my money my way and burn the time played my way, I am not beholden to anyone and therefor have the freedom to play as I please, not to earn a crazy amount of digital gold for a single pet that really most people wont have out with them 100% of the time (Besides I love my mechanical squirrel the most any damned how). What gold I do earn is for my skills and equipment. Vanity stuff...well that's what the extra $10 is for. Can't afford it? Get a job. Got a job? Skip lunch for a week or eat Ramen noodles for a couple of days for dinner and voila you got your $10. Extreme? No, it's priorities. What is honestly more important to you? Just a rant lol!!! Enjoy your cubs!!! I know on payday I will enjoy mine too!!!! In the meantime, I'm out to go kill Horde!!!Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-52175749497811309672011-11-09T10:59:00.000-07:002011-11-09T10:59:39.103-07:00Elitism in PvP and PvE"HAH your pve gear sucks! Why dont you GTFO of my BG scrubnub!!!!"<br />
<br />
"Man vote kick this pvp leach, can't even take the time to learn the fight or earn REAL gearz!!!"<br />
<br />
"God I hate trying to grind two sets of friggen gear for PvE and PvP"<br />
<br />
Funny how it works, polarized communities of pvpers and pve'ers. Each thinking that THEY alone are the real players. Are they? NOPE. They can be experts in their particular fields of play just as much as they can be completely incompetent. Problem is, they are like angry siblings vying for who gets the most attention from Mom (read Blizzard). Lately there has been an argument about standardizing gear across the board. I have to call horse shit. That stinks of socialism for mediocre performance across the board. I see it already with gear grinds becoming alot easier to knock out. But each system is there to cater to a specific crowd in their own hardcoreness.<br />
<br />
Look, iLV gear meant for lv 85 can get you easily into random BG's or baseline dungeons, but you have to push yourself to get higher. For PVPers it means getting into rated BGs and into Arena matches. For PVEers it means getting into baseline dungeons and possibly heroics, but NOT Raids. Trying to get your feet wet to change things up is all good, but you won't really get anywhere unless you specialize in one thing or another. Both sides have a point. For PvPers its learning to work in the random chaos of the battlefield, there is no set UI response from opponents, things change at the drop of a hat. But there is a ton of flexibility on player actions, not forgiveness for stupidity but a flexibility in tactical situations. For PVEers its all about gearing and learning a specific mechanic and learning the fight with zero tolerance for mistimed abilities. It isn't easy and requires very analytical minds to complete the set boss fights. It requires understanding in detail a class spec to maximize within 99.99% of its Holy Trinity potential. Both types of fighting require significant skill and resourcefulness. Both require a cool headed leader that has complete situational awareness and can keep control of a situation. <br />
<br />
In the end, I personally disagree with standardizing gear. I believe in Elitism here. I think there should be a difference between gear to signify the specialty given players have. It is a testament to their dedication towards their game hobby. Lets face it, if you don't want to play a gear based game, WoW is NOT the game for you. There are plenty of FPS games out there or...Minecraft etc. But Blizzard makes it's money banking on players wanting to have "tangible" rewards for their work. The company is still going strong on this formula, proof being them working on the next big expansion. If the formula didn't work, they would stop the development as a whole. So, like it or not, gear grinds are here to stay. I just don't think you should be rewarded for not doing your job in a different style of play.Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-120745231593123812011-11-08T10:09:00.001-07:002011-11-09T11:01:22.002-07:00World PvP and Battleground GrindsWell, first and foremost, Grimrhok, crazy dwarf hunter finally hit 85 a couple of days ago. It was a test of wills to finish off those last million or so XP, but it got done. I was pretty proud and used my hard earned 4k of honor points to get my first taste of lv 85 pvp. Even invested in a new pair of pants to keep things at least sort of equal. Then I walked into the fight ... ouch.<br />
<br />
I didn't realize I was dealing with opponents that not only had pre formed crews (impressive and I respect it entirely) but allot of them also had conquest gear. Big ouch, it was like trying to use my crossbow to break down towers. But I persevered with my stalwart stubborn dwarf self. I was in the big leagues now... well not so much. I notice still the same horrid performance from PUGers. I notice half the time they are just bullshitting their way through hoping for a quick loss to re queue. Why? Honor at lv 85 is given out like candy. Nice..I got almost complete season 10 pvp honor gear within 2 days. That didn't bother me. I wasn't shocked by the piss poor performance either. Random folks never seem to get along. But it became a grind again. Quicker yes, but still a grind to get a decent baseline before I get into one of my guild's RBG teams. Let me be clear, they arent pressuring me in any way. The fact I hit 85 and got a few pieces of Season 10 gear got me noticed for my dedication. Of course its only the first step. And I do enjoy pvp...ALLOT! Just hate incompetence is all.<br />
<br />
Brings me to the final point here. I really enjoy world pvp. I love it when our guild goes on a full rampage against the Horde, or when I happen across a lone figure out in the Uldum sandbox. The constant alertness you have to have for possible foes is a rush. Sometimes you can slam someone, other times you get facerolled. But it's still a rush. I love knowing that there are no enclosed areas and no rules. Fight or die. No pity no remorse. Get a knife in the back? Got feared and facemelted? It happens, but then so does watching my wolf or cat shred down a Deathknight or Paladin (Well paladins seem to take longer but its more blood spilt). I wish there was more of it. I have to commend my guild, Clan Battlehammer for at least twice a week going after the horde cities. It's a blast whether we win or loose. And yes we do loose about as much as we win. But it is still such a riot to go out and fight. <br />
<br />
By far I enjoy world pvp more, but I do enjoy getting cute new armor pieces and weapons to go into over kill from BGs. Anyways, just a rambling today.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><u><strong>Edit: My wife pointed out, it was Season 10 gear I obtained. The weapons were Season 9 which was an error on my part.</strong></u></span>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-24626972377976958872011-11-01T10:44:00.002-07:002011-11-01T19:26:41.561-07:00Day of the DeadEvery major city celebrates this lil holiday in Azeroth. I dropped by Stormwind today to pay my respects and get a quick achievement for fun. Interestingly enough, aside from the whole Forsaken skin there are a couple of small things to check out while visiting the City Graveyard.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ukY4RLR7VMo_rJJMF4HuetnG57XgX3AqjPY2kkpPb5x6qJCH5jyWyfl4rlC0drn7hC7Zx2XylO1Iqed71_O2T0llbQ9RUHYi9bv0tnPSVEOnst0d58_bBuckYXx10JpLwTW1Assv-7Uw/s1600/WoWScrnShot_110111_122916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ukY4RLR7VMo_rJJMF4HuetnG57XgX3AqjPY2kkpPb5x6qJCH5jyWyfl4rlC0drn7hC7Zx2XylO1Iqed71_O2T0llbQ9RUHYi9bv0tnPSVEOnst0d58_bBuckYXx10JpLwTW1Assv-7Uw/s320/WoWScrnShot_110111_122916.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jumpin for joy with that hottie Catrina!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
While tooling around in the Graveyard I noticed this interesting tomb. It shows the pic of a young warrior or paladin girl. No names present but it's the only one in the entire Graveyard. It would be interesting if there was a little lore behind the picture. I recall back in the day that one of the Blizz guys passed on and they left a tomb just past Thorbardin's Wall in memoriam. Is this another possible remembrance or simply a fluke being the only one in the graveyard.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIZotiuWHNfVhrmUy9gR8Q9xD9d8LXggFsoC4u-kE_S3mtl2wxxnTtcsieuRCQdSj8A0Z63YDJwZ5O4BTEwhH93JFmLq0Nuw8DYSUHXrzVJXjBHd9LzM6n4XwbqkusBTvBNiHBckBqlgw/s1600/WoWScrnShot_110111_122944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIZotiuWHNfVhrmUy9gR8Q9xD9d8LXggFsoC4u-kE_S3mtl2wxxnTtcsieuRCQdSj8A0Z63YDJwZ5O4BTEwhH93JFmLq0Nuw8DYSUHXrzVJXjBHd9LzM6n4XwbqkusBTvBNiHBckBqlgw/s320/WoWScrnShot_110111_122944.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomb of the Unknown Warrior Maiden<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="left"></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Finally, before you head out for the day, drop by and pay respects to Tiffin, former Queen of Stormwind. Truly a fine memorial befit for royalty. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_PFtS1i7wxfdx0_ILK_Nlrj45Rhb4InPXXF-0z_yFx8Nm-njfpbXkB-mVU-lQlHDKrBS143qUmU1z_nGn4iCCZZK0qTgu7smXkN7nzgW6JqnPUhYze0UfMILvERexEJTyj7skFTsJpdbI/s1600/WoWScrnShot_110111_123006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_PFtS1i7wxfdx0_ILK_Nlrj45Rhb4InPXXF-0z_yFx8Nm-njfpbXkB-mVU-lQlHDKrBS143qUmU1z_nGn4iCCZZK0qTgu7smXkN7nzgW6JqnPUhYze0UfMILvERexEJTyj7skFTsJpdbI/s320/WoWScrnShot_110111_123006.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queen Tiffin's memorial, somber but beautiful as it should be.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
There is a small caption there up at the headstone, check it out for yourself. Anyways, drop by for this achievement and enjoy the vendor. Speaking of which, there is a cooking recipe to pick up as well as other fun stuff. And with that, enjoy your Day with the Dead! Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-49257991130730284062011-10-31T02:26:00.000-07:002011-10-31T02:26:07.679-07:00Victory in the NorthSome time ago I set out to find and tame the mighty Spirit Wolf Skoll. Most laughed at me for bein' a damned fool. Damned fool or not, I refused to quit. Spent days and days trackin' Skoll down. Some days, the cold was so mind numbin' thought I'd curl into a ball o' snow and fade out. Found him once, but didna have the skill to hold him down. Lost him for some time again. But, bein' the stubborn stumpy I am, I refused to back down. So, one afternoon with plenty of firewhiskey in the gut, I set out once again from me camp. Spotted him off the ridgeline and sped there in a flash. Normally, I'd be a smart dwarf and check about for competetion. No, not the damned frosty wyrmkin ye damned ninny! More to the point, other hunters or Horde interlopers! Nope, didn't even stop to think on that one. Fast as me legs could carry, I set me trap to hold him in place. Started the calls and readied. The battle began but it didn'a last long, I got for what I came. That's right, Skoll decided to follow me home!!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgvjIhuhVI8rz2Jk_VYkXen0rpdw8Ld8Z-3zQvrygslVNWb1G5WODcuoDOQKaPFhHEHFKyYpVV935jyL6xyx5_1OrZyEgBwKqVYhDsdJqvOx13039PQL4fXQu9brqNCon4GGcRi4HND1-/s1600/WoWScrnShot_103111_041121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgvjIhuhVI8rz2Jk_VYkXen0rpdw8Ld8Z-3zQvrygslVNWb1G5WODcuoDOQKaPFhHEHFKyYpVV935jyL6xyx5_1OrZyEgBwKqVYhDsdJqvOx13039PQL4fXQu9brqNCon4GGcRi4HND1-/s320/WoWScrnShot_103111_041121.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A giant beauty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Ahh the tales were true, he's one giant of a wolf, ever hungry, every vigilant. He can be a silent stalker if I need, but also a vicious hunter at a moment's notice. More so, curious enough, he seems ta know when ya need a friendly lickin of the wounds. True as true me frinds, the wolf healed me when I took a short bit o' scratchin' when we hunted down a drake.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzfE3dxvbrZYs5XVl1QfizaUho_rdJ6rAO63-beXR28Ad8iGSnGi8E_f8eoWBlu7PvA-vZ-BpA7GtBbMFnF_eL-6xA6Ppb_2PHsKdBzweoNB49oHBPQqPmcl4e7_o0qs0HEbtMud1wGIZ/s1600/WoWScrnShot_103111_041152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzfE3dxvbrZYs5XVl1QfizaUho_rdJ6rAO63-beXR28Ad8iGSnGi8E_f8eoWBlu7PvA-vZ-BpA7GtBbMFnF_eL-6xA6Ppb_2PHsKdBzweoNB49oHBPQqPmcl4e7_o0qs0HEbtMud1wGIZ/s320/WoWScrnShot_103111_041152.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And ye' thought wolves didn'a get too large...fancy that!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Well, I proved em wrong. But I respect this lightnin' charged beast. I gives him plenty of space when he need it and ne'er take for granted the power he choosed to help with.Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-71277788591041971412011-10-26T19:29:00.000-07:002011-10-26T19:29:54.969-07:00Hunting the MythAye,<br />
I saw him once. Rumor had it a great Spirit wolf roamed the upper reaches of the Storm Peaks in Northrend. I could'na resist, even though I was a wee bit undergeared fro such an undertakin'. Word had it that I might have what it took to find such a beast, though most laughed at the mere mention of mighty Skoll, Howler of the North. Others shuddered, kept to their drink and wished me a painless death for me troubles. Well, armed with what I had, I set out to the frozen Storm Peaks. True enough, the land that Skoll supposedly roamed was frought with giants, drakes and of course...plenty of Horde. Dangers be damned I pressed on. <br />
<br />
Weeks later, one bone cold night I finally heard the chilling howl of this beast. Sure enough, it froze me a second or two. But then peerin from a fur tree stand I spotted him. Sure as sure what a terrifying site he was. Fangs as big as me legs is all I'm sayin. No I wasn't afeared ya blasted son of a troll! But what a sight! I set me traps to hold him down and made my play for tamin this great beast...to no avail. Damned creature looked me square in the eye with a warning and simply walked off. Not one o' me tricks even so much as touched on him. Nope, this time I had'na the skill. But I'd be back an said as much for it! Oh next time I'd figure a way...if the north didna kill me first!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRBDky_ZP1E4Xw_kLBDK0sEz07udmiOGjc0L4PnZZzBK86NbR0dCn7SNXW6Hw_nrAV3EnGDF4mU1o_trvS0n825d_4i2LzKh3PUy-MAOo9pTyWwuq1OFiY0xtwegtYW2KkK2u7aqQ_Nif/s1600/WoWScrnShot_102411_142923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRBDky_ZP1E4Xw_kLBDK0sEz07udmiOGjc0L4PnZZzBK86NbR0dCn7SNXW6Hw_nrAV3EnGDF4mU1o_trvS0n825d_4i2LzKh3PUy-MAOo9pTyWwuq1OFiY0xtwegtYW2KkK2u7aqQ_Nif/s320/WoWScrnShot_102411_142923.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not skilled yet...but I'd be back!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-506519349078974732011-10-22T04:27:00.000-07:002011-10-22T04:27:42.115-07:00A New CompanionAmong the hunters of the world, there is a plethoria of special companions which they have made friends with to defend, attack and bring down their prey. Every great now and then again, you find a special animal, one with spirit or fire, one that stands out far beyond the rest. Well lads and lasses, I'm here to tell you of Pogeyan, Firespirit of the Stranglevale jungles. <br />
<br />
Rumor had it that the ancient troll gods joined their ever lovin souls with different and mighty beasts of the jungle. Now, I'm not one to argue a man's or in this case a Troll's faith but I've always been a awee bit skeptical when it came to such things. Then again...Druids...blast it! Who can say? Speakin of which, a druid friend o' mine sent word from the hunting camps down in the Northern region of the Stranglethorn that a great fiery eyed beast had been prwolin about, makin mince meat of the locals. Well, naturally as a hunter, my curiousity had gone through the roof on this one. Oh, I'd seen and heard a lot, but this one was different. The locals claimed it was the spirit of one o' their Troll Gods, comin to slay any crossin on it's turf. <br />
<br />
Well, be damned if I weren't gonna try to bag this one! They claimed it's eyes glowed red with the rage of the jugnles torn apart and a coat as shiny and fiery bright as the ever lovin sun. This my friends, I had to see! <br />
<br />
So, after payin a good amount of coin in Stormwind for some fine Dwarven Imported whiskey, I mounted up on Skye, me trusty old Gryphon and headed south. It had been years since I been to the jungle, and after my time up in Northrend, the steamy heat hit me like a dwarven steamtank! Couldnt bear to be wearin me chest armor or shoulder guards, just too damnable hot! So, I cleared em off decidin a good ruddy tan would make me look fine as fine for dear Mckaylee. I reached the huntin' camps and questioned the locals and a few dwarven folk there as to the where abouts oh this Firespirit. Most thought I was just out for the hunt itself, an maybe I was at first. But the more I heard of this fang ridden beaast, the more I admired it. Somethin bout the wilde ones always sets me misty eyed. The hunting Lodge offered me a guide, but I figured didn't much need one. So they pointed me out the general direction and off I went, this time alone, with nothin but me skill and heart.<br />
<br />
Took me a good couple weeks huntin this cunning stalker. No doubt about, the challenge was there. I let Skye head back to the Rebels up north where the hills were a bit cooler, stripped down to me leathers and continued the hunt. Finally, there he was! Oh, true to the stories, fiery red eyes that blazed and a sunkissed coat. I didna have the heart to bring him down, but somethin told me, God spirit or not, this one would make the finest of huntin brethren. I thought I was quiet on the stalk, but damned be sure, he gazed straight at me, as though not a bit of grass stood betweenst us. He didna run, but for certain regarded me like a chylde. I set me trap and tried to bait him to no avail. Too smart this one. There was only one way he would bond, and we both knew it. I charged from the thicket, scatterin birds an critters, the mighty cat roared in defiance and suprised me with a lightnin quick leap that caught me mid air. When he hit, I felt like I was at the Blessed anvil in Ironforge bein melted to slag. True to his namesake, fire exploded about us, my poor beard caught a slight singe from it to boot. But held fast I did, taking rakes from his claws while I held his mighty jaws at bay. We wrestled and tumbled, throwing eachother about as though the very Titans were tusslin! But in the end, this mighty cat came to honor my bravery as no other. No, I didna tame him, this one simply saw me as an equal and as fast as the fight began, it ended. <br />
<br />
I can't tell ya if this Fire Spirit holds a God's soul or not, but damned be sure, when he roars, people listen! Well, he follows me about now, and a fine brother he is. I don't oown him so much as learn from him. Let it be learned, the best hunter knows to respect the wylde, and sometimes...sometimes, they give ya the respect in turn!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZO5dtMnOdTE_Plgh4_J5iNwDLW6z61ZDCvHhoXm7ifQtV95I8BTN-CQoG5U0mC0Wtl1uAyYHfKT1bcgVkHkFiHPnepUPuYkiFg4Xfd8_slxSm6oKOVOVBgzBElcNtHMJLLeAD2RSEilf/s1600/WoWScrnShot_102211_045713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZO5dtMnOdTE_Plgh4_J5iNwDLW6z61ZDCvHhoXm7ifQtV95I8BTN-CQoG5U0mC0Wtl1uAyYHfKT1bcgVkHkFiHPnepUPuYkiFg4Xfd8_slxSm6oKOVOVBgzBElcNtHMJLLeAD2RSEilf/s320/WoWScrnShot_102211_045713.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-56604839220823319492011-10-20T18:49:00.000-07:002011-10-20T18:49:01.780-07:00The ReturnFolks, I've been gone for a few months. I suppose there are questions why. Bottom line, Ive been deployed to Afghanistan and have just returned home. What this means? Well, I just got a new computer so Im downloading the game again. It also means that I have been easing back into non combat roles. So, I am still writing but have taken the time to enjoy not being shot at or bombed etc. Yes I am ok. No I am not a nut case. But I am taking a lot of time just enjoying the game and enjoying my time with my beloved wife Laura aka Mckaylee. You can still find me roaming about on Emerald Dream under Grmrhok or Cailadin/Khailadin. It may be a month or so before I pick up writing seriously because I am just trying to have fun again. <br />
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On the personal level, my wife is doing wonderful and a huge support in my re integration. I drink booze way too much...but shit happens. I am currently going through some health issues but it should clear up in a few days or so. I hope the WoW community hasnt written me off but if I have to re start from scratch its all good. So to those enjoying the game I applaud you all. I will have more stories, some of which will change a bit from my previous entries but thats ok. The Rusty Blade was meant to enjoy my altiholism...so get used to it!!! Have a good one out there in Azeroth and stay adventerous!!!<br />
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~Mhorgrim and altsMhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-48883191796902062572011-07-31T07:23:00.002-07:002011-07-31T09:12:30.161-07:00The Gates of OrgrimmarIt had been a few days since the probing attacks at the Tram terminal in Ironforge. Stormwind had also been hit, though far more grievously. While the Ironforge nobility wished to fight defensively, Bruenor had something different in mind. Though he pledged his loyalty and that of the Battlehammer clan to the Dwarven nation, he refused to bow to the politics of the day. The human King himself had been wounded and even now his healers worked feverishly to keep him alive. Clan King Bruenor decided to take the fight to the Horde rather than keep to the halls of the Capitol. To this end, he summoned his clansmen and ordered a mighty host to muster in the Commons.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mounting up at King Bruenor's command.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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By order, they marched on to Stormwind to take ships across the sea. The battered troops of Stormwind would welcome the extra dwarven aid without a doubt. And so they marched onward to the tram. Once there, the mighty host travelled and the mustered in Stormwind.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Formation ready for Stormwind march.</td></tr>
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It took awhile as many of the clan wanted to enjoy the human city. The open air and towering walls were interesting to those who minded after architecture. Other's enjoyed the human food and drink. Of course the humans didn't mind, gold and silver traded hands fast and furious. For a dwarven warrior, though his coin be precious, it was also a way to show his or her power by spending it amongst others.\<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On foot, the dwarven host crosses one of many Stormwind bridges.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drunken Dwarf foot races, getting ready for the fight.</td></tr>
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With the blood of the clan in fool fury, King Bruenor led his people to the docks and took to sail across the ocean to meet the Horde by blood and blade. It took a few weeks, but finally they made port on Theramore Isle and crossed the murly swamps in the Barrens. While marching on to take the Crossroads as a resupply point, a few Horde skirmishers gave some fight, but not enough to deter the Host. Bruenor knew that word would quickly reach Orgrimmar and blood would be spilt. This would be ok, let them be ready, for axe would meet axe and steel would spark fire.<br />
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In all of this, Grimrhok, who has recently been promoted to Corporal marched on with fire in his eyes. Mckaylee was there at his side and both were spoiling for a fight. Soon, the horde would feel the might of the Battlehammers. Though the march was long, he was hardened to the road. Things in the Barrens were different to him. Large tracts of Savannah grasslands, brken up with high plateaus. Personally, he missed the forests and mountains, but when the warhorns and drums of battle called, he danced readily to it's tune.<br />
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Finally after several days of march, the Host caught the Crossroads in their sites. Traditionaly the Horde had held this place as a beacon for trade and for armies to resupply at as they traveled. It wasn't huge, no more than a village really, but a prosperous one to say the least. For the Battlehammer's, it would serve as a resupply point and triage should things get ugly. From the tactical point of view, it was critical in taking and holding. Grimrhok readied his rifle and che4cked his equipment. When ready, the Battle drums beat and the fight ensued. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chaos and blood reigns all as the fight for Crossroads rages on.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holding ground, Grimrhok keeps a sharp eye out for counter attack.</td></tr>
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Once the Crossroads were secure, the Clan left a defending force behind, to be ready for any orders that came down. This would insure that if any Horde attempted to retake the village, they would meet resistance, but also gave the clan an anchor to hold onto if things got ugly. The rest of the Clan raced north towards the Southfury entrance. More and more of the Horde came to battle them as they moved on, but their efforts slowed the clan vbery little in getting to the gates. Hellscream should have sent a better team of skirmishers to bring the clan to bay thought Grimrhok. With a chuckle and whistle, he urged his Battle Ram on to keep up with the rest of the host.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grimrhok rides on the flanks to keep a sharp eye out for Horde attacks.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the River Gates.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Battle ensues.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Once at the gates, the fight became furious. So, thought Grim, Hellscream had panned this. That wily orcish warlord put everything he had against the clan here to decide one way or another. The Bald bastard was smart after all. Steel met steel, mighty spells crackled in the skies. No quarter given or taken. The Horde forces indeed were mighty this day. Grim could only hope that by attrition, they would make Hellscream's forces think thrice afore they attempted another assault on the Alliance capitols. Though the dwarves fought hard and long, supplies began to dwindle. Since the rest of the Allaince was fractured, the Clan coulnd't breach the gates. Still, pound for pound and steel for steel, many were the Horde warrior that fell that day. Certainly, they gave pause to think another round or three before attacking any Alliance territory. In the end, though frustrated by not being able to breach their defenses, Grim walked away with mroe than a few orc and troll heads. He would have kept the forsaken ones, but they stank worse for the decay. Something wrong about the undead. Eh well, Grim knew he did his job right.<br />
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It felt like a stalemate, The Horde forces couldn't break out and make further menace, but the Clan couldn't break through with a decisive blow. Supplies ran low and so King Bruenor gave the signal to fall back. It wasn't his favorite order, but he would rather regroup and replenish than let his clan die at the gates with no help from Ironfore or Stormwind. Damned sure he wouldn't see help from the Darnassus enclave. Still, thee move was best for the clan. Of course many the tale would be regaled for their fine efforts and their hardened fighting. <br />
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Weeks later they reached Stormwind. From looting and pillaging, many was the coin spent, though mostly this time in the Dwarven District. Stories were told, bragging ensued as dwarves are want to do. Brothers and sisters came together and bonds were made deeper by blood and steel.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Dwarven Tavern in Stormwind.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drinking to the fallen, a moment of silence.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We did well to hold them off Grim thought as he scratched Greyfang's ear. It wasn't the win he had hoped for, but damned sure put a dent in the Horde plans to make a serious assault. Hopefully he thought, next time more support would be available.</div>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-37356215162252327012011-07-24T08:35:00.000-07:002011-07-24T08:35:59.651-07:00Rewards for hard fought battlesGrimrhok was pleased. High Command of the Dwarves had awarded him with a War Ram, fast, deadly and armed to the Horn! The black charger looked at him impatiently as he admired it's breeding. Only the finest warriors were awarded with such mounts to show all their accomplishments and deeds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWwToi1sQDUMRU3wVFpy_tUMCn1r-wDTsrY450HNnFtqT3I5LlnfeBtQCWUll6okiwZ42WUpqHp03QWbdKBiQR2j5RLBbwN7Sf1gaAgbpuz5NjHnjlRQqw8fYY35aZVgkDtPbmt0oPAFL/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072311_223744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWwToi1sQDUMRU3wVFpy_tUMCn1r-wDTsrY450HNnFtqT3I5LlnfeBtQCWUll6okiwZ42WUpqHp03QWbdKBiQR2j5RLBbwN7Sf1gaAgbpuz5NjHnjlRQqw8fYY35aZVgkDtPbmt0oPAFL/s320/WoWScrnShot_072311_223744.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Ironforge, only the finest warriors could have such a fine steed!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-36722268947530665312011-07-24T08:08:00.002-07:002011-07-24T08:13:50.592-07:00Clan BattleHammer Where Steel and Blood MeetOne of the largest forces defending the Alliance and especially Dwarven interests and Ironforge is Clan Battlehammer For two long years they have forged young dwarves into steel clad defenders of the Dwarven realms. Many has been the time they have staged assaults on key Horde controlled areas. Proudly, Grim could now call himself one of them. They were a hard bitten lot, and expected any of their recruits to be ready for the brutality that war brings. His own recruiter, Keella had made sure he understood that to stand amongst the Battlehammer and to serve King Bruenor, he would have to prove himself in battle continuously. Thankfully he came with good recommendations from his previous Commander. And so, he and his sweet Mckaylee took their oath of loyalty to King Bruenor to fight at his side ready and willing to answer the Call To Arms when asked for.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPMy7mBvhZUsbcXdq5XpkSGG_R8ryAlSTHtyrj9tLCp437DwcB51lMGjK0uDDsKFs1qkMTKMkqnswfLpqVuO8VXAFargx4TPDZ7-3w0ICEIhZ4i9BtJwIKnER1Z_cAjpAcaMDegsEmEVtl/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_195809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPMy7mBvhZUsbcXdq5XpkSGG_R8ryAlSTHtyrj9tLCp437DwcB51lMGjK0uDDsKFs1qkMTKMkqnswfLpqVuO8VXAFargx4TPDZ7-3w0ICEIhZ4i9BtJwIKnER1Z_cAjpAcaMDegsEmEVtl/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_195809.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mustering to the ranks, heeding the Call to Arms.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
King Bruenor looked across the assembled force. His keen eye was quick to see those new amongst his ranks. He called them by name and inspected their gear to make sure they be ready for war. The King did his own inspections, showing his worth by walking amongst his troops. Each dwarf stood tall, making sure their arms and armor were clean, sharpened and ready to answer to the drums of battle. As the king neared Grim, his cocked an eyebrow.<br />
"Well now, a hunter are ya? You've a fine little fox at your side. But whats this? Daggers instead of axes? "<br />
"M'lord", Grim answered," My rifle does most the talkin' at range. But as my love Mckaylee has a lways said to me, a good pair of daggers is often the way to strike when least expected at close quarters. And when it comes to daggers, Mckaylee knows them better than most. But rest assured, Tis my rifle that be answerin' the most!". With that he presented to his new King the prized rifle which he kept religiously clean and at the ready. <br />
<br />
The Clan Lord looked briefly but new the young hunter would not have presented his weapon ready less it was truly ready. He could see the focus in the young hunter's eyes. It was all he needed to know. Nodding with a mischievous wink, he moved on.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7PrDp-9-lJyf9ZeFWacMHVE0PJTxcAafEoxgZQRQKg6ff-_hRRleEGPectyV-WW-bSh-6GFsdSJq1_DCze2x2kdG0I3j20lziXysw5NBDIv6oXazPWbziw7p3q6pbeTJM1DI-p-ub7yo/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_200717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7PrDp-9-lJyf9ZeFWacMHVE0PJTxcAafEoxgZQRQKg6ff-_hRRleEGPectyV-WW-bSh-6GFsdSJq1_DCze2x2kdG0I3j20lziXysw5NBDIv6oXazPWbziw7p3q6pbeTJM1DI-p-ub7yo/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_200717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspection in the Ranks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
After the inspection finished, drums beat loudly in time with the hammers of Ironforge and the call to mount up at the ready sounded from ancient horns. Quickly, Grimrhok and his dear Mckaylee mounted their Rams and made ready for the patrols ahead. It would be the first time they fought together, and he could see the gleam in her eyes as they made ready to march. It gave him both chills and a sense of pride to see her in such a state. Aye, this would be a good fight no matter how it ended. Before mounting up, Grimrhok kneeled in the mighty halls and called out his prayers to the ancestors,<br />
<br />
"Lo there do I see my father. Lo there do I see my mother and my sisters and my brothers. Lo there do I see the line of my people, back to the beginning. Lo, they do call to me, they bid me take my place among them, in the Great Halls, where the brave may live...forever.' <span style="color: red;">(Giving credit this is a Norse prayer for war and burial written somewhere between the 12-13th century but I had to do it!!)</span><br />
<br />
With that he whistled to his charger and lept up on his fearless Ram.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd97TS5SaaIqMCkjHIvu15skhMCeZ1y2DQw6GypMzsBTwO2vMPfxCQ9jYYbfQhz96lt11D_xKvAAsc9RMhGCV9f3FljJKd_9MvWYzAgkQnN5XyBF0G7d1uDv4GZWKQuTsvnKGW_ZywzHY4/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_201044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd97TS5SaaIqMCkjHIvu15skhMCeZ1y2DQw6GypMzsBTwO2vMPfxCQ9jYYbfQhz96lt11D_xKvAAsc9RMhGCV9f3FljJKd_9MvWYzAgkQnN5XyBF0G7d1uDv4GZWKQuTsvnKGW_ZywzHY4/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_201044.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mounting up and making ready for the march.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Commands were called and all got into a file to march through Ironforge and head to the great Tram which would take them to Stormwind.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OjqcJYXzzM5Vi-s529cgFLgIlB1VJ_msXXpV9tqlpmu1gEtsws_SQKW3B7qK35rdTBSc6Z9Z6SnsErp_NC74Mqk1l3wn1gJvxCago97RX628OgLsuuia3Ddd-ZAk6Nt0XmGKxAmVVwf4/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_201447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OjqcJYXzzM5Vi-s529cgFLgIlB1VJ_msXXpV9tqlpmu1gEtsws_SQKW3B7qK35rdTBSc6Z9Z6SnsErp_NC74Mqk1l3wn1gJvxCago97RX628OgLsuuia3Ddd-ZAk6Nt0XmGKxAmVVwf4/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_201447.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marching to the drums of war.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCIPPIIQILqmvTW-yFqYmpqadP0opZ-yFvJsdD7qYZXs18zNEcxn5pPOeQPc8GOkzlM8AWaP7s67PHibqk01nXMF2iPQvBVXQW-4xfAp-rJJVewr__JhyhIbmB0wXGdoJA5svmeZNjTJsa/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_201748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCIPPIIQILqmvTW-yFqYmpqadP0opZ-yFvJsdD7qYZXs18zNEcxn5pPOeQPc8GOkzlM8AWaP7s67PHibqk01nXMF2iPQvBVXQW-4xfAp-rJJVewr__JhyhIbmB0wXGdoJA5svmeZNjTJsa/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_201748.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tram was packed with the might host. Everyone stood shoulder to shoulder here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Upon reaching Stormwind, everyone mounted once again, and made their march out amongst the humans. Many were surprised at the mighty host. But every soldier amongst the clan held their quiet discipline for the moment. Indeed, there would be a time and place for bragging and drinking. But for now, the shear numbers would do more talking than any word from the mouth. Women, children, soldiers stopped and took pause at the mighty host. Though this had not been the first time and certainly wouldnt be the last, the sight alone caused suprise by many of Stormwind's residents. Grim took pride in this. For most of his life he stood alone, surviving the harshness of the world by just his wit. But here, he felt as though he was a part of something greater than himself. It was something that felt noble and true. This made him straighten his broad back a little more and hold his head high.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-oR3vvAmcUTbfCrOVFJvhGPCQZNxvyp4qsnmSUd3nP4e0rkpkCui58jVBrfrKz1ttvM9Yp1Q9lXvnaiVR5FWvF1_nxkxyykFtum7MGITkjEGMvHDAwfcjt87-i9acnb03_wHbxsqIAZ7/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_202705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-oR3vvAmcUTbfCrOVFJvhGPCQZNxvyp4qsnmSUd3nP4e0rkpkCui58jVBrfrKz1ttvM9Yp1Q9lXvnaiVR5FWvF1_nxkxyykFtum7MGITkjEGMvHDAwfcjt87-i9acnb03_wHbxsqIAZ7/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_202705.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marching through Stormwind.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The march continued, a few stalwart Alliance heroes joined in here and there, just to say they had been with the mighty host. Bruenor led from the front. He would not stand behind his troops but instead be the first to swing his mighty Axe. Once past the gates of Stormwind, The army made their way into a samll town just outside the capitol, and made their presence known their. The local commander was glad to see such a mighty host to add to his own patrols. It kept bad elements out and away from Goldshire.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxgZpWd6O18VqTm7E2Qd8G4rRH02nNiTfp_xZi2Bmk6MPYET4X0gsQ3GXoOnyYpkXPKkTtwOLrIJRjwFnZUbWAyTLCU3QtAC6IJAOg9ER5LSBJttNTTqROiMt2GCni6FXoyToo9zwXEYi/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_203040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxgZpWd6O18VqTm7E2Qd8G4rRH02nNiTfp_xZi2Bmk6MPYET4X0gsQ3GXoOnyYpkXPKkTtwOLrIJRjwFnZUbWAyTLCU3QtAC6IJAOg9ER5LSBJttNTTqROiMt2GCni6FXoyToo9zwXEYi/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_203040.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading into Goldshire.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Once the area had been secure, the Clan moved out towards WestfallStormwind had been building a new Battle Keep out there, but it still was in progress for completion, so forces there were constantly harassed by gnollish incursions, cataclysmic elementals, and as always, the looming threat of the Horde.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0YmWDjtU4NcpUg7LhYr1elcBx49TILJArUx3ZXYR4lVEcN_C8NasBs3Qkwht7-ahXlgyotn8USRedpb0AtPFRYZAWyQH7VmNiuQ3oEN3D6wTnFgsfUhE30UY5E3vB6NvQimBgRX4yDcQ/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_204247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0YmWDjtU4NcpUg7LhYr1elcBx49TILJArUx3ZXYR4lVEcN_C8NasBs3Qkwht7-ahXlgyotn8USRedpb0AtPFRYZAWyQH7VmNiuQ3oEN3D6wTnFgsfUhE30UY5E3vB6NvQimBgRX4yDcQ/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_204247.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wesfall as it stood now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Along the way, the patrol encountered more than a few Horde skirmishers. Grimrhok and Mckaylee made sure they were in the front of any fight, whether by shadow or by rifle shot. No doubt many of their betters did far more damage, but they would not cower behind the mighty. No, it was better to die valiantly than live the life of a coward. Some of the Horde dove from the skies. Many of them felt the sting of Grimrhok's rifle as the made their decent! But of course, it was his betters that made the true and telling kills. when all was said and done and the threats dispersed, the host made it's way back to Ironforge. It had taken a few days to do this, but well worth the march.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7iMQRAZkPLlTNC_8Y8LIzimupUElbfV9ijxf8cnB6PkNWSSC_FoFkWvwpsT-MJ-4blnbh9B6loU8IFr3A0sOD_MiPfTaOW9lAWjFw9ZRezMSRW01HTdjFtNx9euaxoNCXwd-EE5ZYC-N/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_211435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7iMQRAZkPLlTNC_8Y8LIzimupUElbfV9ijxf8cnB6PkNWSSC_FoFkWvwpsT-MJ-4blnbh9B6loU8IFr3A0sOD_MiPfTaOW9lAWjFw9ZRezMSRW01HTdjFtNx9euaxoNCXwd-EE5ZYC-N/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_211435.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the patrol, Mckaylee makes sure Grim is ready for the final call.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Word spread quickly that the new recruits had shown themselves worth the steel and fire they spoke of. In fact an message had been sent to Grimrhok and Mckaylee to make ready to be presented to the King. Mckaylee naturally was ready to be presented. She had already washed and re-braided her raven dark hair. Grim had not thought of it himself. He lived in the fields and rarely worried. But his dearest convinced him it was for the best that he look his finest. He cleaned his armor, resharpened his daggers and oiled his rifle. She in turn oiled and plaited his fine dark bear. She carefully wove and braided it, adding new silver bands to show off that fine long beard. He couldn't argue. This was a way a dwarven maiden would always show a warrior her love. For the beard of a dwarf was a way to express he was a warrior amongst many. And a long beard said even more. Once done, the King had called a final formation. He called out the roles himself. He also demanded a few step forward for their bravery in combat. Unto each he proudly announced his decree of their actions and awards. Grimrhok and Mckaylee knelt before the King of the Battlehammer and received their just rewards. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J3Vxd3_48YmF8BJ73t5-TscGt1dUG3o5d4gBfZFJoOP0PjnsYVcXqi9x-CUtZxUn8fKfXw4K2XL8BWKOttm5T9VVe7fEpMV3G71ZKdykL6puKQs7RU3B0OamSzj2_3XI2KdgB3cZ_eTc/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_210725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J3Vxd3_48YmF8BJ73t5-TscGt1dUG3o5d4gBfZFJoOP0PjnsYVcXqi9x-CUtZxUn8fKfXw4K2XL8BWKOttm5T9VVe7fEpMV3G71ZKdykL6puKQs7RU3B0OamSzj2_3XI2KdgB3cZ_eTc/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_210725.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chosen few, new and old.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbhoVqEBlZ1nT4zkXB_BQDl_IgCm3cQblWVqx7iPfaYx9GMgzHfB_61qAY2jsuS04rvfz4sNY2EstUeFT2DPju-CzZOC8bUgKFbEE0uPTZk6JriUTNQMvzAvPixo7mhHr-aj0B-Ad3jvb/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_210804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbhoVqEBlZ1nT4zkXB_BQDl_IgCm3cQblWVqx7iPfaYx9GMgzHfB_61qAY2jsuS04rvfz4sNY2EstUeFT2DPju-CzZOC8bUgKFbEE0uPTZk6JriUTNQMvzAvPixo7mhHr-aj0B-Ad3jvb/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_210804.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before the Clan Lord.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2S5YHY2BHLt1xWyhYKtWP5O5So3W81hmlHCU_ukj44rmEDmM37DoqlQaww4BIICtT-s9HVa_CR27qeHIkIbUFme0Bqcj4C-eh9TsiFMdJZa6WJOfYPdnoQ1lVI5PEBXXhQDmRDRKUutq4/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072211_210655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2S5YHY2BHLt1xWyhYKtWP5O5So3W81hmlHCU_ukj44rmEDmM37DoqlQaww4BIICtT-s9HVa_CR27qeHIkIbUFme0Bqcj4C-eh9TsiFMdJZa6WJOfYPdnoQ1lVI5PEBXXhQDmRDRKUutq4/s320/WoWScrnShot_072211_210655.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grim receives his recognition amongst the Clan.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
When it was finished, there was a great celebration with plenty of ale, grog and for certain the finest foods. All rejoiced and hailed the king as well as each other. Everyone present was counted as brother and sister in war. With the celebration finished, Bruenor called his personal guard and his finest heroes. <br />
"We've done well out there with our host. But a mightier threat looms. I call upon you my champions for a special mission. Only the greatest may come this round for I am not certain of the outcome. Give the others their respite. But to each of you my heroes, you all must mount up fast, for the Alliance needs us now more than ever! Mount up my brothers and Sisters for this ride I lead the Charge!"<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><u><b>(This was my introduction into Clan BattleHammer (Emerald Dream). It is a Dwarf centric guild and all about world pvp. For those interested in knowing more about the clan you can log onto their website at: http://www.guildportal.com/Guild.aspx?GuildID=320395&TabID=2686102 </b></u></div><div style="color: red;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><u><b><span style="color: red;">For some reason this won't link as it should. But Google it and you will find the Clan, or just copy paste into your browser for more information. These folk are a good lot and worth my time as a dwarf. If you enjoy Dwarf centric pvp, rp and just fun social, I really suggest you check them out!</span></b></u>!!)Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433069280368288835.post-61475004171043683262011-07-22T09:53:00.000-07:002011-07-22T09:53:04.928-07:00Aerie Peak..The Hinterlands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Well and good enough that I fought in Arathi. But there's more to be done elsewhere. Orders were received to head up North into the Hinterlands and make contact with the Wildhammer Clan of Aerie Peak. Took me a few days to make my way there but oh was it an interesting sight. These Wildhammer folk are a righteous bunch. They make some damned fine ale as well. Aerie Peak itself is a fine example of Dwarven Craftsmanship. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuzqN0UMc2OeR1DOJt8CQGlt-sCngAK9Uf4OpjhRr7dgFASdBFF55KI9SGwcFI7mvFB1n_9t-_5V_ZQimelftjlWB4bw2MgxWc12aigphL1TprzRD-x8RwgythyphenhyphendhlUJq0PANgJRU_MI9m/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072111_201802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuzqN0UMc2OeR1DOJt8CQGlt-sCngAK9Uf4OpjhRr7dgFASdBFF55KI9SGwcFI7mvFB1n_9t-_5V_ZQimelftjlWB4bw2MgxWc12aigphL1TprzRD-x8RwgythyphenhyphendhlUJq0PANgJRU_MI9m/s320/WoWScrnShot_072111_201802.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Gates of Aerie Peak</td></tr>
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The clan itself hails from a more savage time. They aren't quite as civilized in manner as the Hill Folk or those from might Ironforge. They have their own code of honor and it suits them well, independent, hard working, and fierce in combat. And by the Gods can they drink! Their grog is enough to but a stout on his hind quarter any day of the week.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-rzf8lu-UpU5CXD5BJGlq7pOyWab5vPTXAEX_D3T4uE2miQkzz-S80iop04M_IWlK-_nKjxB1jn2bIzSTVOW12qrDD-qTZXRZm0-9B3ip5hqDERgfTJQiKj8Z_uQuK7qk6OAMGo5SLi1/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072111_201638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-rzf8lu-UpU5CXD5BJGlq7pOyWab5vPTXAEX_D3T4uE2miQkzz-S80iop04M_IWlK-_nKjxB1jn2bIzSTVOW12qrDD-qTZXRZm0-9B3ip5hqDERgfTJQiKj8Z_uQuK7qk6OAMGo5SLi1/s320/WoWScrnShot_072111_201638.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Wildhammer who fears little needs little more than his tattoos for War.</td></tr>
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But with all that, their Great Hall where one can rest, eat, drink and laugh is warm and hearty. I'll enjoy my time here while I explore the Hinterlands and report back to High Command the doings of the Forsaken and the Troll encroachments. In the meantime, this Cherry Grog is the tastiest bit of drink I've had in a long bit!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNb87vr5XsPrASQh0cKb2cXQ9LTKOMhGRkjEdaeTAWCU1tGk8mQaZgeKRFqwitFzA8oWJIkckf9CL_kgcYxFHjEb5oMN6kXjdSHwRYqYbBnOr-m0RSTLB88gblUutLxNGV6BwRRafoyCUe/s1600/WoWScrnShot_072111_201528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNb87vr5XsPrASQh0cKb2cXQ9LTKOMhGRkjEdaeTAWCU1tGk8mQaZgeKRFqwitFzA8oWJIkckf9CL_kgcYxFHjEb5oMN6kXjdSHwRYqYbBnOr-m0RSTLB88gblUutLxNGV6BwRRafoyCUe/s320/WoWScrnShot_072111_201528.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fine place to rest between forays!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mhorgrimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12477248508719375474noreply@blogger.com1