I was having a discussion with Cadistra about the Cenarion Circle's large amount of paperwork, yet their stance on protecting the environment. This brought up a question that was too complicated for the 140 character limit on Twitter.
As a Ranger, being close to nature is not a foreign concept. As a politician, I have to wonder (and point out the hypocrisy) about the decisions people make in regard to their treatment of the resources we have.
The initial question: If Druids are so protective of the environment, then why do they have so much paperwork? Even if the paper is recycled, they must still cut down trees for the raw materials.
If they cut down trees for paper to maintain their own bureaucracy, then why are the Night Elves so up in arms about the Orcs needing building materials? There is conflict in Warsong Gulch because the Orcs have no viable building materials in Durotar and need wood from nearby Ashenvale. Notice, they are not clear-cutting the entire forest (there is no lumbering going on adjacent to Splintertree Post, Mor'shan Rampart, or Zoram'gar Outpost), nor are they setting up lumbermills in Azshara. I also must bring up the point that wood is a renewable resource, and I'm sure everyone can work together to plant trees in place of the ones that need to be taken for building material.
Yes, Grom Hellscream and his Orcs cleared parts of the forest, but going to war only makes people more belligerent and stubborn to continue their ways. Again, wood is a renewable resource. Thrall is the type who understands nature, and would like to strike a balance between taking and giving. I believe Thrall would be willing to work with both Shamans and Druids to repair the damage done when taking what they need from the forest, but the attitude of the Silverwing Sentinels is not doing much to convince the Warsong Orcs to stop anything.
Perhaps it's a misunderstanding of orcish culture, behavior, and personality. The best way to get an Orc to stop doing something is NOT to tell him, "If you don't stop, I'm going to attack you!" An Orc is just going to smile and increase the rate of whatever he's doing to provoke a fight. The greatest honor to an Orc is dying on the battlefield, not dying in bed of old age, surrounded by friends and family. Give the lowliest peon who is stuck in a menial job a chance to die in battle, and he'll do what he can to make sure that battle happens.
This is NOT a difficult concept.
Finally, if they are so environmentally friendly and have issues with necessary logging of a renewable resource, how is it that Night Elves are on friendly terms with Dwarves and Gnomes? How can they go to war over the trees in Ashenvale, but look the other way when Dwarves strip-mine for non-renewable resources and artifacts? The Dwarves mining in the Barrens and Mulgore are not Dark Iron Dwarves, but Bronzebeard's people. In addition, the Stormpike Expedition traveled into Alterac Valley where Thrall's own clan, the Frostwolves, wanted to live in peace with the land. How can Night Elf Druids justify fighting alongside those who have invaded a land to take non-renewable resources from those who have lived in accord with the elements?
As for the Gnomes...while the invasion of their city by troggs and their subsequent need to destroy it was unfortunate, they detonated a radiation bomb. Need I say more?
This is not a question as to who should have "possession" of a particular bit of land, but what they intend to do with it.
I can't help but question this as being hypocritical. There is bad blood between Night Elves (and often, Druids in general) and Blood Elves due to our use of the Arcane. But think about this: after Silvermoon was razed we rebuilt our city with magic rather than destroying the land around us. Eversong Woods is our home and source of protection. The Farstriders would do anything to defend it, even use the Arcane (something we hesitate using) to keep our home safe.
I don't really want to start ANOTHER war when the problem with the Lich King still needs to be resolved in Northrend, but...
To my fellow Horde: If you ever see a Night Elf Druid riding a Mekgineer's Chopper in Alterac Valley...target them first.
Showing posts with label thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label thoughts. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Winter Veil Wish List - Part 2
The other day I posted my wish list. Since then, it turns out that one of my wishes has already been granted. It wasn't Christie Golden, but another talented scribe who submitted some information about me to our grand overlords at Blizzard. Said scribe embellished a little (as scribes are wont to do), but otherwise managed to document that time period between the recapture of the Isle of Quel'Danas and the expedition to Northrend perfectly. Amongst other things, they grasped my unwillingness to be called "king" despite the deserved promotion beyond "regent," the reasons I show some animosity toward Rommath (and yes, I do pity him at the same time), my desire for peace with the Quel'dorei, and the dawning realization that I must tread carefully to not follow Kael'thas's path of leadership.
And the scribe won a contest on my behalf.
Well, I'm glad more is now known about me. However, those particular days expose many raw emotions. I've read it over and over again, feeling old wounds reopen. It is the mark of a good scribe to be able to extract the same feelings no matter how many times we've read his/her work. The reason I try to keep this journal rather light-hearted and cover other subjects is because I don't wish to burden others with those problems they do not need to see. But once in a while, it is good that the audience understands what their leaders go through.
For that reason, I highly recommend giving it a read. Remember, while it is based on my own experiences, it was another scribe who completed the work and submitted it.
I need to find him and give him a promotion.
As to the subject of this post, since one of my wishes has now come true (although I was hoping for more of a biography so people would STOP claiming a relation to me that simply does NOT exist), I must now come up with a replacement.
I now ask Greatfather Winter a request on behalf of my people:
In neutral cities such and Dalaran and Shattrath, I would like the merchants, bankers, and other townspeople to also observe neutrality, lest my people begin to pull their support and protection. I've had numerous complaints that upon concluding business with Horde races, the townspeople often make the parting comment "For the Alliance!"
No. Just no.
I know the townsfolk have their loyalties too, but they are alienating those who would otherwise gladly help them. So in the spirit of diplomacy, I ask Greatfather Winter to make them see the folly of bias in neutral territory. My people go to Dalaran because they must. It's bad enough that they willingly go in and defend the Violet Hold knowing that is where their Prince, friends, and family members were driven to join the naga and Illidan in order to survive. But then to be told "for the Alliance!" when all they want to do is a simple banking transaction? After all they've been through such treatment is a slap in the face.
I'm not even asking for members of the Horde to find employment in the main part of Dalaran, forcing out those who already have an established livelihood there. Just requesting some conscious effort on the part of the townsfolk to remember that half the people supporting their economy and protection are not "for" the Alliance at all.
And the scribe won a contest on my behalf.
Well, I'm glad more is now known about me. However, those particular days expose many raw emotions. I've read it over and over again, feeling old wounds reopen. It is the mark of a good scribe to be able to extract the same feelings no matter how many times we've read his/her work. The reason I try to keep this journal rather light-hearted and cover other subjects is because I don't wish to burden others with those problems they do not need to see. But once in a while, it is good that the audience understands what their leaders go through.
For that reason, I highly recommend giving it a read. Remember, while it is based on my own experiences, it was another scribe who completed the work and submitted it.
I need to find him and give him a promotion.
As to the subject of this post, since one of my wishes has now come true (although I was hoping for more of a biography so people would STOP claiming a relation to me that simply does NOT exist), I must now come up with a replacement.
I now ask Greatfather Winter a request on behalf of my people:
In neutral cities such and Dalaran and Shattrath, I would like the merchants, bankers, and other townspeople to also observe neutrality, lest my people begin to pull their support and protection. I've had numerous complaints that upon concluding business with Horde races, the townspeople often make the parting comment "For the Alliance!"
No. Just no.
I know the townsfolk have their loyalties too, but they are alienating those who would otherwise gladly help them. So in the spirit of diplomacy, I ask Greatfather Winter to make them see the folly of bias in neutral territory. My people go to Dalaran because they must. It's bad enough that they willingly go in and defend the Violet Hold knowing that is where their Prince, friends, and family members were driven to join the naga and Illidan in order to survive. But then to be told "for the Alliance!" when all they want to do is a simple banking transaction? After all they've been through such treatment is a slap in the face.
I'm not even asking for members of the Horde to find employment in the main part of Dalaran, forcing out those who already have an established livelihood there. Just requesting some conscious effort on the part of the townsfolk to remember that half the people supporting their economy and protection are not "for" the Alliance at all.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Question for the Death Knights
We all know about the Death Knights, and we recognize what their defection from the Lich King's control might mean for all of Azeroth as we march toward Icecrown.
While trying to gather information on the Netherweb, I came across a little ditty by Nine Inch Nails. While they are not the Elite Tauren Chieftains, I can't stop listening to this song.
The Hand that Feeds brings up a valid question for those Death Knights who have not yet turned. I wonder if they think about these questions during that moment when they are on the cusp? I may have to track down Koltira Deathweaver and ask him.
The lyrics:
You're keeping in step
In the line
Got your chin held high and you feel just fine
Because you do
What you're told
But inside your heart it is black and it's hollow and it's cold
Just how deep do you believe?
Will you bite the hand that feeds?
Will you chew until it bleeds?
Can you get up off your knees?
Are you brave enough to see?
Do you want to change it?
What if this whole crusade's
A charade
And behind it all there's a price to be paid
For the blood
On which we dine
Justified in the name of the holy and the divine
Just how deep do you believe?
Will you bite the hand that feeds?
Will you chew until it bleeds?
Can you get up off your knees?
Are you brave enough to see?
Do you want to change it?
So naive
I keep holding on to what I want to believe
I can see
But I keep holding on and on and on and on
Will you bite the hand that feeds you?
Will you stay down on your knees? [8X]
For the record, Trent Reznor is one of the few people I will gladly say looks as good in leather pants as I do.
While trying to gather information on the Netherweb, I came across a little ditty by Nine Inch Nails. While they are not the Elite Tauren Chieftains, I can't stop listening to this song.
The Hand that Feeds brings up a valid question for those Death Knights who have not yet turned. I wonder if they think about these questions during that moment when they are on the cusp? I may have to track down Koltira Deathweaver and ask him.
The lyrics:
You're keeping in step
In the line
Got your chin held high and you feel just fine
Because you do
What you're told
But inside your heart it is black and it's hollow and it's cold
Just how deep do you believe?
Will you bite the hand that feeds?
Will you chew until it bleeds?
Can you get up off your knees?
Are you brave enough to see?
Do you want to change it?
What if this whole crusade's
A charade
And behind it all there's a price to be paid
For the blood
On which we dine
Justified in the name of the holy and the divine
Just how deep do you believe?
Will you bite the hand that feeds?
Will you chew until it bleeds?
Can you get up off your knees?
Are you brave enough to see?
Do you want to change it?
So naive
I keep holding on to what I want to believe
I can see
But I keep holding on and on and on and on
Will you bite the hand that feeds you?
Will you stay down on your knees? [8X]
For the record, Trent Reznor is one of the few people I will gladly say looks as good in leather pants as I do.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Top Ten Reasons I Pick on Rommath
For the folks who follow me on Twitter, you might notice I make a lot of snide comments about our Grand Magister. I have my reasons. Time to share a few of them with you:
10. He's a Kael'thas fanboy. (Even after everything the Prince has done.)
9. He procrastinates too much. (He STILL hasn't gotten reinforcements to Tranquillien.)
8. Poor fashion sense. He thinks masks are sexy. (Chicks dig battle scars, dude.)
7. He hasn't finished rebuilding Silvermoon. (Could magically repair most of it in a day. It's been years and he hasn't completed the job.)
6. He still talks about Netherstorm like it's Paradise. (I've been there. Nagrand is where's it's at.)
5. He argues with Halduron. (Thankfully Halduron is a prankster and gets him back.)
4. He whines a lot, especially about being tired of standing. (I have a throne behind me, and do you see me sitting? No sir!)
3. Dude gossips like a stereotypical hair dresser. (No way I'm telling him about Anveena.)
2. To keep him in his place. (He's my Port Bitch.)
1. MELEE MAGE?! (REALLY?!)
10. He's a Kael'thas fanboy. (Even after everything the Prince has done.)
9. He procrastinates too much. (He STILL hasn't gotten reinforcements to Tranquillien.)
8. Poor fashion sense. He thinks masks are sexy. (Chicks dig battle scars, dude.)
7. He hasn't finished rebuilding Silvermoon. (Could magically repair most of it in a day. It's been years and he hasn't completed the job.)
6. He still talks about Netherstorm like it's Paradise. (I've been there. Nagrand is where's it's at.)
5. He argues with Halduron. (Thankfully Halduron is a prankster and gets him back.)
4. He whines a lot, especially about being tired of standing. (I have a throne behind me, and do you see me sitting? No sir!)
3. Dude gossips like a stereotypical hair dresser. (No way I'm telling him about Anveena.)
2. To keep him in his place. (He's my Port Bitch.)
1. MELEE MAGE?! (REALLY?!)
Confessions: Of Love, Desire, and Duty.
I lay awake in bed all night, a lovely lady cradled in my arms where I kept her safe and warm, and I wondered, "What the hell am I doing?" Attraction? Desire? Love? These are not foreign concepts, but in some sense they are forbidden to be chased and, by the Well, attained on my own.
These thoughts began after a lively discussion on Twitter about Prince Kael'thas and his poor courtship of Lady Jaina Proudmoore. First, I must say that before he mingled with the wrong crowd and became power hungry (and subservient to a poor choice in Master), I did respect the man. If the Prince had anything going for him, it was that his heart was always in the right place. He was just a complete dumbass when it came to expressing it. Oh, he was eloquent and well-trained in diplomacy. His social graces were impeccable, and he was an intelligent man. But all of that training was for the benefit of the state. Dealing with other governments is easy compared to one-on-one, person-to-person contact. Worse, when it's regarding affairs of the heart.
It's not that the Prince was forbidden to love, but that in the end he'd be forced to court whomever his father or the Convocation of Silvermoon decided was the "right" girl. And even if he was not interested in girls (I know what you all are thinking right now, but it's a moot point!) he had no choice in the matter. His lot in life was to marry for the good of our people and produce an heir.
Well, we all know THAT didn't happen.
In the meantime, I was more or less married to my job. I worked for Lady Sylvanas. My duties kept me constantly on the move. I always thought there would be time to find the right person and settle down "later."
I never imagined that in this sense, I'd end up like the Prince.
I can't begin to explain how deep is my loathing for discussing this subject with others. After Children's Week, I made an off-hand comment about the kids being cute, and maybe when things in Northrend settle down I could explore those paternal feelings that suddenly surfaced. The next thing I knew, I had letters from several nobles describing in exacting detail the fine qualities of their most eligible daughters. When I politely turned them away, I knew rumors would spread, and suddenly I had young courtiers looking to "gain favor," if you know what I mean (and I think you do).
And THEN there are the political issues. Halduron frets about it with me on occasion. Pick a Farstrider, and people will make accusations of favoritism. Pick a Blood Knight, and risk losing the support of the Rangers with whom I've worked all these years. (Despite my best efforts, the Blood Knight-Farstrider feud still runs deep.) Rommath would like to throw one of his apprentice mages at me, possibly to tip the balance of power in his direction. Warlocks and Rogues, while valuable assets to the government at large, would cause tension that would affect our connection to the other Horde races. By process of elimination, a member of the Priest class seems like the ideal potential mate, but even their sway between Shadow and Light is prime for a political snafu.
And what about those who have not taken up arms to join the defenders of our city? There are all types of people out there in the world--even those not of the Sin'dorei race. However, THAT would cause even more problems. We all know that Vereesa Windrunner was one of us. We give her what respect we can as a former Ranger and Lady Sylvanas's sister. I have an inkling of what type of woman she is. But after marrying a human and then attempting to block our membership to Dalaran and the Kirin Tor, I know how a lot of our people consider her a traitor and blame it on the influence of her human husband, Rhonin. I cannot go down that path right now, even for true love.
All of this said, I am still a man who craves companionship and love as any other. Idle flirtation is fun, but perhaps it is the gravity of the pressure from the government itself requiring that I make the "right" choice that is the reason I can make no choice at all. I know what I like, and I know what I seek, but love and country contracts do not always mix.
I know what you're thinking here, too: What's my type, and frankly, which way do I swing. (I get enough gay jokes that I might as well address the topic, even if only to skim the surface.)
I will say this much: I am comfortable enough with myself that I can say I've met as many unattractive women as I have attractive men. To put it in terms other than sexuality, I might state a preference for people with light-colored hair, but I may see many whom I just don't find attractive. I may also see many with dark hair that I find very attractive. My preference still exists, but doesn't preclude attraction. So yes, I can say the same about the genders. I'm just not saying which of the two I prefer.
The foolish thing about the debate over my sexuality is that the main thing that interests me is a compatible personality. I am attracted to a person of wit and intelligence. One who can hold a conversation long into the morning hours. One who can be playful and serious, and know when is the appropriate time for each. I like a person to be charming and graceful. A potential partner must be strong of character, will, and determination. That person must be able to laugh, but also not afraid to cry. I can't stand a damsel in distress, but need to be allowed a "hero" moment every so often. I want a partner with whom I can stand back-to-back, knowing they will protect me as I protect them. That person should have a sense of curiosity and adventure, but tempered with wisdom and common sense.
These traits are the most important things to me before I can consider looks or even gender.
Might I be describing someone I already know? Again, I won't tell...!
Anyway...for now it seems I will indulge in a playboy lifestyle since settling down is not in my near future.
But a man can dream.
These thoughts began after a lively discussion on Twitter about Prince Kael'thas and his poor courtship of Lady Jaina Proudmoore. First, I must say that before he mingled with the wrong crowd and became power hungry (and subservient to a poor choice in Master), I did respect the man. If the Prince had anything going for him, it was that his heart was always in the right place. He was just a complete dumbass when it came to expressing it. Oh, he was eloquent and well-trained in diplomacy. His social graces were impeccable, and he was an intelligent man. But all of that training was for the benefit of the state. Dealing with other governments is easy compared to one-on-one, person-to-person contact. Worse, when it's regarding affairs of the heart.
It's not that the Prince was forbidden to love, but that in the end he'd be forced to court whomever his father or the Convocation of Silvermoon decided was the "right" girl. And even if he was not interested in girls (I know what you all are thinking right now, but it's a moot point!) he had no choice in the matter. His lot in life was to marry for the good of our people and produce an heir.
Well, we all know THAT didn't happen.
In the meantime, I was more or less married to my job. I worked for Lady Sylvanas. My duties kept me constantly on the move. I always thought there would be time to find the right person and settle down "later."
I never imagined that in this sense, I'd end up like the Prince.
I can't begin to explain how deep is my loathing for discussing this subject with others. After Children's Week, I made an off-hand comment about the kids being cute, and maybe when things in Northrend settle down I could explore those paternal feelings that suddenly surfaced. The next thing I knew, I had letters from several nobles describing in exacting detail the fine qualities of their most eligible daughters. When I politely turned them away, I knew rumors would spread, and suddenly I had young courtiers looking to "gain favor," if you know what I mean (and I think you do).
And THEN there are the political issues. Halduron frets about it with me on occasion. Pick a Farstrider, and people will make accusations of favoritism. Pick a Blood Knight, and risk losing the support of the Rangers with whom I've worked all these years. (Despite my best efforts, the Blood Knight-Farstrider feud still runs deep.) Rommath would like to throw one of his apprentice mages at me, possibly to tip the balance of power in his direction. Warlocks and Rogues, while valuable assets to the government at large, would cause tension that would affect our connection to the other Horde races. By process of elimination, a member of the Priest class seems like the ideal potential mate, but even their sway between Shadow and Light is prime for a political snafu.
And what about those who have not taken up arms to join the defenders of our city? There are all types of people out there in the world--even those not of the Sin'dorei race. However, THAT would cause even more problems. We all know that Vereesa Windrunner was one of us. We give her what respect we can as a former Ranger and Lady Sylvanas's sister. I have an inkling of what type of woman she is. But after marrying a human and then attempting to block our membership to Dalaran and the Kirin Tor, I know how a lot of our people consider her a traitor and blame it on the influence of her human husband, Rhonin. I cannot go down that path right now, even for true love.
All of this said, I am still a man who craves companionship and love as any other. Idle flirtation is fun, but perhaps it is the gravity of the pressure from the government itself requiring that I make the "right" choice that is the reason I can make no choice at all. I know what I like, and I know what I seek, but love and country contracts do not always mix.
I know what you're thinking here, too: What's my type, and frankly, which way do I swing. (I get enough gay jokes that I might as well address the topic, even if only to skim the surface.)
I will say this much: I am comfortable enough with myself that I can say I've met as many unattractive women as I have attractive men. To put it in terms other than sexuality, I might state a preference for people with light-colored hair, but I may see many whom I just don't find attractive. I may also see many with dark hair that I find very attractive. My preference still exists, but doesn't preclude attraction. So yes, I can say the same about the genders. I'm just not saying which of the two I prefer.
The foolish thing about the debate over my sexuality is that the main thing that interests me is a compatible personality. I am attracted to a person of wit and intelligence. One who can hold a conversation long into the morning hours. One who can be playful and serious, and know when is the appropriate time for each. I like a person to be charming and graceful. A potential partner must be strong of character, will, and determination. That person must be able to laugh, but also not afraid to cry. I can't stand a damsel in distress, but need to be allowed a "hero" moment every so often. I want a partner with whom I can stand back-to-back, knowing they will protect me as I protect them. That person should have a sense of curiosity and adventure, but tempered with wisdom and common sense.
These traits are the most important things to me before I can consider looks or even gender.
Might I be describing someone I already know? Again, I won't tell...!
Anyway...for now it seems I will indulge in a playboy lifestyle since settling down is not in my near future.
But a man can dream.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Some favorite vacation spots.
Before becoming regent of Silvermoon, I was a ranger. I don't think it's possible to ever shake the feeling of wanderlust that was sated by my former occupation. Now I have to settle for escaping for a few hours when I get the chance. A cooped-up regent is a grumpy regent.
Here's a small list of some of my favorite places to visit when I can spend a few hours away to clear my head:
Mulgore: Perhaps the easiest vacation spot to get to. Convince Rommath to port me to Thunder Bluff, tell Cairne to grab the ingredients for his famous kodo burgers, and head over to Stonebull Lake. We invite Thrall over, but sometimes he gets a little busy. Sometimes there's a little rain, but that's when we head inside and hit the peace pipe. The weather is a little cooler than Quel'thalas, but the lush plains are beautiful.
Silverpine Forest: Tirisfal is a little dark for my tastes, but there are some spots in Silverpine that are nice when I want to go camping. It's not for the faint of heart, though. The area is better for hunting trips, if that's your idea of relaxation.
Nagrand: Thrall introduced me to his grandmother one time, and she insists that he needs to visit her more. Well, I'm not one to turn down a kind old orc lady's hospitality, and she makes the best gingerbread you've ever tasted. Most of Nagrand is lush and beautiful. If you feel like watching a show, you can hop over to the arena and see the fights. (Careful, they sometimes decide to have audience participation!) The little floating islands are also perfect for sunbathing. It's also the most interesting place to stargaze at night.
Azshara: Thrall can sometimes get out to camp in this area. It's probably the location with weather that has the closest match to Quel'thalas. However, there are some traitors that have an established camp out there. Makes for some diplomacy issues for simple vacations. But if anyone feels like dealing with them, be my guest. I can think of at least one orc who would thank you for your efforts. *cough*
Moonglade: This isn't the most ideal place for me to visit. I can always feel the Night Elves staring. They're not entirely hostile, but it makes me a bit paranoid. But as long as I stay away from Nighthaven, it's a nice place to go and relax.
Stranglethorn Vale: There are a few neat spots to visit. My favorite is an overlook by a waterfall. Travel north from Booty Bay, and look for a path on your left that's marked with a torch. You'll have to avoid some gorillas, but that's not difficult. The beach by Grom'gol and the riverside by the Nesingwary camp site are good locations to visit too. Good fishing is to be had all over the zone, and if you feel competitive, enter the fishing contest on Sunday afternoon. Stranglethorn is a bit on the humid side, and be sure to bring your sunblock. When you're done, go back to Booty Bay for some of their rum concoctions.
Feralas: Again, a good escape for a hunting trip. It's humid like Stranglethorn, but not oppressively so. Be sure to check out the Twin Colossals, but make sure you have a way to get down. There's a guy who sells parachute cloaks, but they're a little sketchy and he overcharges for them. All in all, a good place for a picnic, and the Tauren in Camp Mojache are good people.
Storm Peaks: I'm not a huge fan of the cold, if the list so far is any indication. But this is the best location for a ski trip. Mmmm... Snow bunnies....
Sholazar Basin: Fishing at River's heart is the best. The water is surprisingly warm for Northrend if you care to go swimming. Just watch out for the threshers.
Grizzly Hills: Again, decent hunting grounds. This is the kind of place where I like to get a small group together and play paintball. The only downside is that the terrain can be tricky in places. Many trips had to be called off due to someone tripping and getting a sprained ankle shortly after starting out.
There are a few other places, and this is just a short list. But all of this said, Quel'thalas is still home, and I couldn't imagine anywhere more beautiful.
Deeper musings to follow.
Here's a small list of some of my favorite places to visit when I can spend a few hours away to clear my head:
Mulgore: Perhaps the easiest vacation spot to get to. Convince Rommath to port me to Thunder Bluff, tell Cairne to grab the ingredients for his famous kodo burgers, and head over to Stonebull Lake. We invite Thrall over, but sometimes he gets a little busy. Sometimes there's a little rain, but that's when we head inside and hit the peace pipe. The weather is a little cooler than Quel'thalas, but the lush plains are beautiful.
Silverpine Forest: Tirisfal is a little dark for my tastes, but there are some spots in Silverpine that are nice when I want to go camping. It's not for the faint of heart, though. The area is better for hunting trips, if that's your idea of relaxation.
Nagrand: Thrall introduced me to his grandmother one time, and she insists that he needs to visit her more. Well, I'm not one to turn down a kind old orc lady's hospitality, and she makes the best gingerbread you've ever tasted. Most of Nagrand is lush and beautiful. If you feel like watching a show, you can hop over to the arena and see the fights. (Careful, they sometimes decide to have audience participation!) The little floating islands are also perfect for sunbathing. It's also the most interesting place to stargaze at night.
Azshara: Thrall can sometimes get out to camp in this area. It's probably the location with weather that has the closest match to Quel'thalas. However, there are some traitors that have an established camp out there. Makes for some diplomacy issues for simple vacations. But if anyone feels like dealing with them, be my guest. I can think of at least one orc who would thank you for your efforts. *cough*
Moonglade: This isn't the most ideal place for me to visit. I can always feel the Night Elves staring. They're not entirely hostile, but it makes me a bit paranoid. But as long as I stay away from Nighthaven, it's a nice place to go and relax.
Stranglethorn Vale: There are a few neat spots to visit. My favorite is an overlook by a waterfall. Travel north from Booty Bay, and look for a path on your left that's marked with a torch. You'll have to avoid some gorillas, but that's not difficult. The beach by Grom'gol and the riverside by the Nesingwary camp site are good locations to visit too. Good fishing is to be had all over the zone, and if you feel competitive, enter the fishing contest on Sunday afternoon. Stranglethorn is a bit on the humid side, and be sure to bring your sunblock. When you're done, go back to Booty Bay for some of their rum concoctions.
Feralas: Again, a good escape for a hunting trip. It's humid like Stranglethorn, but not oppressively so. Be sure to check out the Twin Colossals, but make sure you have a way to get down. There's a guy who sells parachute cloaks, but they're a little sketchy and he overcharges for them. All in all, a good place for a picnic, and the Tauren in Camp Mojache are good people.
Storm Peaks: I'm not a huge fan of the cold, if the list so far is any indication. But this is the best location for a ski trip. Mmmm... Snow bunnies....
Sholazar Basin: Fishing at River's heart is the best. The water is surprisingly warm for Northrend if you care to go swimming. Just watch out for the threshers.
Grizzly Hills: Again, decent hunting grounds. This is the kind of place where I like to get a small group together and play paintball. The only downside is that the terrain can be tricky in places. Many trips had to be called off due to someone tripping and getting a sprained ankle shortly after starting out.
There are a few other places, and this is just a short list. But all of this said, Quel'thalas is still home, and I couldn't imagine anywhere more beautiful.
Deeper musings to follow.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Children's Week
Thrall and I decided that a state outing would be a good way to get some vacation time and get the kids together for a little well-deserved fun. I spent a good portion of yesterday making arrangements, and this morning overseeing the clearing of the mana beasts from the path to the beach. Right now I'm just awaiting the Warchief and his charges to arrive for a day of food, fun, and games.
While they gave me a headache yesterday from running all through the Sunfury Spire after finding a stash of leftover Noblegarden candy, the kids have been pretty endearing. Maybe it's my paternal instincts kicking in, but I want to do more for them. I don't have kids of my own, and due to my line of work, all relationships have been stopping at flirtation. (Believe it or not!) This is the perfect opportunity to reach out where I normally can't.
Beyond giving some of the kids a fun day at the beach, there's also the Child's Play Charity Auction from The Hunting Lodge. I know my readership is low right now, but I figure the more mentions the better. I'm considering bidding on the CoreHound shirt from BigRedkitty. I could really use some guard dogs for Silvermoon. And then there's the WoW, Eh? print by the lovely Cadistra. If I had kids, it would go on their bedroom wall.
There have been reports of Horde and Alliance getting along in some of the Battlegrounds, working together in front of the kids to get achievements, and then letting each other part ways without a bloody slaughter. Some of my people reported that they were in Alterac Valley giving the kids lessons on taking turns, sharing, and being polite at the Stonehearth Bunker. People without kids yelled at them (in language not appropriate for the kids' ears) about capturing the tower and killing the Alliance. But kids are smart...I think they saw that being a warrior is not just about killing and death. It's about doing what it takes to get the job done.
That's the point of this whole day: to give the kids a chance to get together, learn to get along, honor, and respect each other despite their differences.
Word has it that Thrall's beginning the journey here. Rommath has been keeping the kids we have here occupied with stories while Halduron and I have been making arrangements. I think even Lady Liadrin is going to come down for a bit. Perhaps we'll have some friendly duels/demonstrations for the kids, all ending with "dogpile on the big green orc!"
While they gave me a headache yesterday from running all through the Sunfury Spire after finding a stash of leftover Noblegarden candy, the kids have been pretty endearing. Maybe it's my paternal instincts kicking in, but I want to do more for them. I don't have kids of my own, and due to my line of work, all relationships have been stopping at flirtation. (Believe it or not!) This is the perfect opportunity to reach out where I normally can't.
Beyond giving some of the kids a fun day at the beach, there's also the Child's Play Charity Auction from The Hunting Lodge. I know my readership is low right now, but I figure the more mentions the better. I'm considering bidding on the CoreHound shirt from BigRedkitty. I could really use some guard dogs for Silvermoon. And then there's the WoW, Eh? print by the lovely Cadistra. If I had kids, it would go on their bedroom wall.
There have been reports of Horde and Alliance getting along in some of the Battlegrounds, working together in front of the kids to get achievements, and then letting each other part ways without a bloody slaughter. Some of my people reported that they were in Alterac Valley giving the kids lessons on taking turns, sharing, and being polite at the Stonehearth Bunker. People without kids yelled at them (in language not appropriate for the kids' ears) about capturing the tower and killing the Alliance. But kids are smart...I think they saw that being a warrior is not just about killing and death. It's about doing what it takes to get the job done.
That's the point of this whole day: to give the kids a chance to get together, learn to get along, honor, and respect each other despite their differences.
Word has it that Thrall's beginning the journey here. Rommath has been keeping the kids we have here occupied with stories while Halduron and I have been making arrangements. I think even Lady Liadrin is going to come down for a bit. Perhaps we'll have some friendly duels/demonstrations for the kids, all ending with "dogpile on the big green orc!"
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Dragons in Silvermoon, or Just Too Much Bloodthistle?
It has come to my attention that there have been cases of citizens who believe they are dragons, demons, animal hybrids (not talking about Druids), and other such creatures.
Such claims are not unprecedented. My companions and I were once fooled by Kalecgos and Tyrygosa in half-elf and elven forms, respectibly. Since that time, they have a standing invitation to visit the city in their disguises, although I preferred for them to at least give me notice upon their arrival. It is not every day you can count a dragon as more than an acquaintence, although "friend" might be a bit of a stretch.
We are aware of dragons taking the forms of the mortal races elsewhere: one only has to visit Wyrmrest Temple in Northrend to see many of the draconian leaders and ambassadors in humanoid form.
So there is no doubt in my mind that there are dragons walking among us. While their clandestine activities are cause for concern (see this surveillance video in which a Sin'dorei woman discovers Onyxia's identity--but I have no comment as to why she was there in the first place *cough*), right now I am baffled at the number of people who openly claim being dragonkin. The only explanation I have is that they found some rather potent bloodthistle and should seek immediate medical attention.
The majority of dragons would not be so quick to admit what they really are. They are strong, but should word get out about their true form, they are likely to be hunted by adventurers seeking "phat lewts." In addition, they usually take care to mask any indication or detail that might raise suspicions. When confronted with an accusation, even with significant proof, most dragons would flatly deny their identity to a common person.
The same goes for the other creatures. We have warlocks in Silvermoon, so the nature of demons is not unknown to us. The class is tolerated because we believe we can best fight the enemy with their own tactics. A clever demon who manages to escape his master's control and disguise his/her appearance probably will not want to draw attention to him/herself. The few I have come across have done their best to avoid the populace.
Again, I know dragons and demons walk among us. I simply doubt the real ones are going to speak so casually about their true form in public, or will fail to take utmost care in hiding their physical traits that make them stand out in their surroundings.
Such claims are not unprecedented. My companions and I were once fooled by Kalecgos and Tyrygosa in half-elf and elven forms, respectibly. Since that time, they have a standing invitation to visit the city in their disguises, although I preferred for them to at least give me notice upon their arrival. It is not every day you can count a dragon as more than an acquaintence, although "friend" might be a bit of a stretch.
We are aware of dragons taking the forms of the mortal races elsewhere: one only has to visit Wyrmrest Temple in Northrend to see many of the draconian leaders and ambassadors in humanoid form.
So there is no doubt in my mind that there are dragons walking among us. While their clandestine activities are cause for concern (see this surveillance video in which a Sin'dorei woman discovers Onyxia's identity--but I have no comment as to why she was there in the first place *cough*), right now I am baffled at the number of people who openly claim being dragonkin. The only explanation I have is that they found some rather potent bloodthistle and should seek immediate medical attention.
The majority of dragons would not be so quick to admit what they really are. They are strong, but should word get out about their true form, they are likely to be hunted by adventurers seeking "phat lewts." In addition, they usually take care to mask any indication or detail that might raise suspicions. When confronted with an accusation, even with significant proof, most dragons would flatly deny their identity to a common person.
The same goes for the other creatures. We have warlocks in Silvermoon, so the nature of demons is not unknown to us. The class is tolerated because we believe we can best fight the enemy with their own tactics. A clever demon who manages to escape his master's control and disguise his/her appearance probably will not want to draw attention to him/herself. The few I have come across have done their best to avoid the populace.
Again, I know dragons and demons walk among us. I simply doubt the real ones are going to speak so casually about their true form in public, or will fail to take utmost care in hiding their physical traits that make them stand out in their surroundings.
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