The Keep

For months the Horde gathered their forces within the southern lands of the Eastern Kingdoms, all the orcs training, researching, learning of the land and its inhabitants. Some of the more intelligent orcs studied the books that were retrieved from the library in Stormwind, reading the maps and making plans for battle, drawing out complicated routes and plans.

Kali trained hard, working to build her muscles in support of Doomhammer and those loyal to him, training herself in not only an axe, but swords, daggers and maces as well, always preferring to keep her black iron shield. She didn’t like maces so much as the sharp weapons, but she knew that one day, she may need to know to defend herself with nothing but a mace. Before, she trained for her parents and fear of their disapproval, but now she trained with vigor and excitement. While there was doubt in what they were doing under Blackhand, it disappeared with the introduction of their new leader. She listened intently to his speeches, the same childish look of delight and admiration on her face.

Her parents, however, were quickly becoming more and more disgruntled with Gul’dan still remaining in his coma and the young Chieftain heading the massive organization. However, Gul’dan’s slumber wouldn’t last for ever, much to Kali’s dismay. She didn’t know why Doomhammer hadn’t killed him, though she tried to push the thoughts from her mind. When Doomhammer made it clear that Gul’dan was to follow him and help the Horde, Kali was furious. Her recently built trust in him faltering, and her cheeks puffed up in anger when she saw the traitor walking around the crowd.

It was announced that the remaining warlocks would be allowed to follow Gul’dan under the banner of the Stormreavers, which Kali regrettably saw replace the banner of the Bleeding Hollow Clan on her parents. Her stomach lurched when they donned the new colours, sending one another one more silent message through their eyes as they changed, fervently returning to their study of the fel magics.

Still, with her new foundations of trust and hope once again shattered, she trained, her will power growing. The young orc female was growing more and more determined not to be like these adults. Their ways were confusing to her, their lies and deceit and actions against, what Kali saw, were honourable. Though she still admired Doomhammer, she resented him for, as she saw it, trusting Gul’dan again. The Horde around her grew strong, their bodies hard, their minds focused, their footsteps sure, their hunts successful, their raids even more so. They were a powerful, ever growing force, and they were ready to move.

The way to Khaz Modan was mapped, though not well, and as they walked, they got lost several times, following the still unfamiliar sky as best they could, toting with them as many maps and books as the strong force could muster. They had to leave very little behind as they walked for the Dwarven lands, their bodies sculpted and readied for the oncoming war.