Chapter 5 Chapter Four

Cairne had never seen such a grand celebration in Orgrimmar, but he wasn't sure he liked it. It's not that he doesn't want to mourn those who fought valiantly against the Lich King and his minions.It's because he knows as well as anyone, in fact better than most, about military spending on all fronts.As for the extravagant treatment the veterans received, he couldn't help but secretly frowned. He had recently learned that the parade had been held on Garrosh's radar. "Let the people see their heroes," he said, "and let them drive into Orgrimmar to receive the welcome they deserve."

It's such an ill-conceived idea that everyone knows Garrosh Hellscream won the game. And Garrosh insisted that everyone involved in the Northrend campaign be encouraged to participate.Of course, no one expects to see Forsaken or sin'dorei veterans at the parade, though neither can deny their right to participate.They have their own more concerned things, and they are still continuing their own battle on the northernmost continent.No, the members of this military parade are mainly composed of residents of the tropical desert areas of Kalimdor, including orcs, trolls, and tauren.In Kane's opinion, if every one of these races who had fought against or cursed the Scourge were invited.The team probably extends from the gate of Orgrimmar to the airship tower.

On similar occasions, the Alliance usually uses rose petals, while the Horde scoffs at the softness.Workers have paved the path with pine branches so that they smell fragrant when crushed underfoot.Durotar did not grow such pine branches, and Cairne knew they were brought from far away.He sighed deeply, shaking his head at the extravagance. The Son of Grom was at the head of the parade, the first to enter when the gates opened, followed by the veterans of Warsong Hold.Kane didn't mind where he was, staying on Kalimdor while Garrosh led his army to Northrend.And the main force of the expeditionary force is the orcs, and this place is the home of the orcs.However, what made him dissatisfied was that most of the crowd followed Garrosh's footsteps and cheered him, but they didn't care about the soldiers in other ranks, even though they fought hard and sometimes even sacrificed more young and fresh for the victory. s life.All they lack is a charismatic leader.

Thrall himself stood at the gate of Grommash Keep.The instantly recognizable black plate armor on his body originally belonged to Orgrim Doomhammer, after whom Orgrimmar was named.The Horde Warchief wields the heavy Doomhammer in a massive green fist.Thrall's majestic and majestic image is famous far and wide. There have been more than one times when he just appeared in battle and won without a fight. Standing beside him was Eitrigg, a stooped but still robust orc in his fifties.Eitrigg's son was betrayed by his comrades in World War II and died in battle, so he left the tribe after the war.Disgusted by the depravity and self-abandonment he had seen among the orcs, Eitrigg thought he had done all he could for his people.When Thrall took charge of the Horde and led the orcs back to shamanism, Eitrigg rejoined the Horde.One of Thrall's most important and trusted advisors, he assisted the Argent Crusade in Zul'drak during the Battle of Northrend and only recently returned.

Sarbi's blue eyes fixed on the approaching warriors, a rare color among orcs.Garrosh stopped in front of him.Thrall looked at him for a moment, then nodded deeply in respect. "Garrosh? Hellscream," his deep voice carried easily through the crowd. "You are my best friend, son of Horde hero Grom Hellscream. You didn't know what a great orc he was. Now you do, and your command of the Northrend campaign proves that you too Heroes of the tribe. "We stand in the shadow of this armor and skull, which belonged to our mighty foe Mannoroth. Long has his blood stained our bodies and clouded our hearts. Your father beheaded the mighty the enemy, and thus free his people from this dreadful curse."

He nodded for Eitrigg to come forward.Thrall took a package from him and opened it in public.It was a battle-axe—this was no ordinary battle-axe, it had its own name, a resounding name.Its curved blade is notched with two grooves, and it screams when swung—a battle cry with the master for whom it is named. Many people present recognized this weapon, and whispers began to sound from the crowd. "This," said Thrall solemnly, "is Gorehowl. It was your father's weapon, Garrosh. It was its blade that slew Mannoroth. Rom Hellscream sacrificed his life." Garrosh's eyes widened.A look of joy and pride shone across his tan face.He stepped forward to accept the gift, but Thrall didn't let go right away.

"It killed Mannoroth," he repeated, "but it also took the life of Cenarius, the patriarch of the druids, the noble demigod. Like any weapon, it can do good as well as evil. Garrosh, I ask you to inherit the best of your father. Use this weapon wisely for the good of your people. It is my honor to be here to welcome you back. You gave your blood, sweat and soul, accept now Love and appreciate it." Garrosh took the weapon, testing its weight in his hand.He wielded the ax with such mastery as if he had been born for it—or so, Cain mused.With a piercing shriek and howl, Gorehowl, who has slain countless Horde foes, is returning to battle.Garrosh raised his ax above his head, and the entire Valley of Wisdom resounded with cheers from the crowd.Garrosh closed his eyes, as if he was really bathed in admiration and love.Cairne had never felt that Garrosh was undeserving of such love, but he felt he should have shown more humbly gratitude for the weapon and the accolade.

"Veterans, all taverns are open to you tonight. Eat, drink and sing to your heart's content in honor of your deeds, just don't forget that the citizens of Orgrimmar are the ones you defend, not destroy. Sal showed a slight smile, "Sometimes the effect of alcohol can make people forget the difference between the two." There was a good-natured laugh.Kane knew there would be such an arrangement.Sal has promised to reimburse each restaurant and hotel for a full day of food, drink and private rooms after the fact.But shopkeepers have to take care of their customers—the Horde doesn't pay for broken tables and chairs.This happens from time to time, and occasionally someone is killed, but these are an integral part of a celebration.Kane didn't approve of it, even when he was young, he didn't like such rough behavior, but he didn't object when Thrall suggested it.

Thrall waved his hand, and several large carts covered with thick blankets were pulled forward by Kodos and Velociraptors.Under Thrall's gesture, the three orcs stepped forward to lift the blanket, and there were dozens of barrels of spirits under it. "The carnival has begun!" Thrall yelled, and there were wild cheers and applause all around.The parade is officially over.The veterans rushed to the barrels eagerly, and began a revelry that would last all night, even if they were hungover tomorrow morning.Kane strode towards the door of Grommash Fortress, stopping to stare for a moment as he passed the skull and armor that Thrall had mentioned.

The armor was chained to a huge dead tree for public display.The skull of the demon lord hung on the top of the tree, with two curved tusks protruding forward, whitened by the scorching sun.The plate armor was too massive for even the strongest orc, troll, or tauren to wear.Kane stared at it for a long time, recalling Grom's heroic deeds, thanking him for his self-sacrifice to liberate his people. With a long sigh, he turned and walked towards the inside of the fort.Kane has the right to travel with a retinue, chosen by himself for the honor of attending tonight's feast.Usually his son Baine was among them, but Baine voluntarily stayed in Mulgore.

It is an honor that you asked me to attend such a grand celebration, Bane wrote, but it is an even greater honor to ensure that our people are safe until their leader, you, finally returns. It's no surprise that Kane was overjoyed by the answer.On the same occasion, Kane himself would do exactly the same.While it would be nice to have a son by my side, it is an even greater blessing to know that my clansmen will be protected and cared for in my absence. In Bane's place was the venerable Archdruid Hamuul Runetotem, Kaine's best friend and loyal advisor.Also present were members of several other tauren clans, including Dawnwalker, Ragetotem (this warrior clan also sent its sons and daughters to fight alongside Garrosh in Northrend), Starseeker, Winterhoof, Thunderhorn, and more.He also brought Magasa, the matriarch of the Grimtotem clan, out of political considerations rather than personal sentiments. Although Magatha lived on Thunder Bluff and her clan enjoyed all the benefits of being a tauren, the Grimtotem never formally joined the Horde.Magatha was a powerful shaman who took over the Grimtotem following the tragic and unexpected death of her husband, though legend has it that his death wasn't really an accident.She and Kane have had conflicts before.Kane was delighted to be able to invite her to Thunder Bluff and to attend such an important celebration. He firmly believes in the old saying, "Unite with friends, unite with enemies." Magatha did not openly oppose him, but Kane doubted she would ever do that.Magatha may be plotting plots in the dark, but Cairne thinks she's a coward after all.Magatha is only in charge of her own clan, so let her think she is strong.And he, Kane? Bloodhoof is the real leader of all Tauren patriarch. Thrargo sat on a huge throne overlooking the entire hall, watching the crowd file in.On both sides of the throne, the copper basins that usually hold charcoal fires are cold today, and there are two smaller but equally gorgeous stoves in front of them.Seats for the ceremony have been placed.At Thrall's request, Kane and Garrosh each took a seat - Garrosh, as the protagonist of tonight, sat on Thrall's right.Thrall's Kor'kron guards stood in several corners of the hall, silent and low-key. Thrall stared at Kane and Garrosh, watching their reactions.Kane moved his body and changed his position on the somewhat cramped seat.Thrall grimaced at this; the orc carpenters had tried to take the tauren's size into account when designing the seat, but apparently they hadn't.Lao Niu was obviously full of pride when he saw his clan members take their seats one by one.Both he and Thrall knew that the tauren paid a lot in this war and lost a lot. The years have left their marks on the Tauren patriarch.Thrall had heard how Cairne had fought valiantly when his ranks were under siege, and how many times he had driven the wounded to safety.This didn't surprise him.He knew Kane's courage, generosity and kindness all too well.It surprised him that the tauren had suffered so much from that encounter, and how slowly he seemed to recover. Thrall felt a sudden pang of heartache.He has lost so many friends and relatives—Teresa Foxton, the human girl who taught him that love and friendship can exist across races; Grom Hellscream, who taught him the true meaning of being an orc; Maybe soon it will be Drek'Thar.According to reports from the orcs who tended him, Drek'Thar had grown weak and delirious.When Thrall felt a pang of grief at the thought of saying goodbye to Kane, his best friend for many years. He turned his attention to Garrosh.Little Hellscream put Gorehowl across his lap, ate and drank and laughed hoarsely, living a comfortable and happy life.However, he stopped from time to time, proudly puffed out his chest, and stared at the crowd with shining eyes.Thrall was not unaware of the fervent love Orgrimmar's people had for Garrosh.Not even Thrall himself was so adored in any celebration.As it should be, Thrall thought.Not every decision he made was popular with the people, but he knew he had led quite successfully, and they respected him.However, Garrosh doesn't seem to have tasted anything but the admiration and love of his people. Garrosh noticed Thrall looking at him and laughed. "It feels good to be here," he said. "Have you been rewarded for your achievements?" Thrall asked. "Of course. But part of it is being with orcs. Discuss with them what it means to be a real orc. Fight a fair fight, defeat your enemies, and celebrate with equal enthusiasm victory." "The Horde is not just orcs, Garrosh," Thrall reminded him. "Yes, but we are at its core, its backbone. And if we stick to that, keep it that way—you'll see more victories for your Horde, Warchief. Not only that, you It will also see people proudly puffing out their chests and chanting 'For the Tribe!' not just with their mouths, but with their hearts." With the exception of Thrall, Garrosh, and Cairne, everyone sat on the ground, the stone floor covered with a thick layer of soft fur.These three races are used to being close to nature, and the hall is warmed by braziers, bonfires and people's body temperature.Thrall noticed that with the exception of Magatha and her Grimtotem, who were somewhat restrained, everyone was happy to be part of the feast, happy to be alive after a war of so much pain and suffering. It was a great event, though Thrall knew that humans and elves would simply shrug it off.The waiters brought huge trays piled high with all kinds of delicacies.People gorge on simple, nutritious fare with their hands: beer-grilled pork chops, roasted bear and venison, zebra legs twirling on spits, slices of crusty bread smothered in delicious sauces, and served with beer , Wine And Rum.The guests ate and drank to their heart's content, and laughter filled the entire Grommash Fortress.After the waiters took away the plates, the satiated people all focused their attention on their great chief. Now, Thrall thought, it was time to talk about the unhappy things. "We are happy and grateful that so many brave warriors have returned safely to their homeland, and they will serve the Horde here with their experience." Thrall began. "We should celebrate and honor their achievements. But war It didn't come without a cost, both in lost lives and in the financial expense of supplying our soldiers for battle. That freak storm destroyed several of our ships, costing us both soldiers and much-needed supplies. "That storm cost us a lot, but this strange incident is not unique. Similar phenomena have been reported from all over Kalimdor, and even in the Eastern Kingdoms. Not to mention our homeland, Orgrimmar, you must be paying attention We feel the effects of this terrible drought. And we often feel the ground trembling under our feet. "I have talked to many of the most trusted shamans, as well as members of the Ring of the Earth." He felt a burst of grief in his heart, thinking of the shaman he trusted the most, and now his judgment is no longer the same as that of a child reliable.Drek'Thar, now more than ever I need your insight, and you can't tell me. "We will do everything we can to understand what, if anything, is disturbing the elements. Or, conversely, to determine if this is just nature going through a perfectly normal cycle." "Normal?" A blunt voice came from behind the crowd.Thrall couldn't see who was speaking, but it sounded like an orc. "Drought on one side, flood on the other, and earthquakes—what kind of normal is that?" "Nature has its own laws and reasons," Thrall said, taking his interruption in stride.He welcomes any challenge, which keeps him on his toes while being approachable and often leads him to discover avenues he hadn't thought of before. "It doesn't change for us - we have to adapt to it. Fire can destroy a city, but it can also make room for all kinds of new plants to thrive. It kills germs and harmful insects, Return the nutrients to the soil. The washing of the flood can expose new veins to the surface. As for the earthquake, well..." He smiled, "Mother Earth must be allowed to complain once in a while." There was a burst of laughter, and Thrall felt the change in mood.He himself wasn't sure if those reports were normal; in fact, from the connections he'd made with the Elementals, he was starting to feel the exact opposite.The elementals seemed... chaotic and sad.They were not spelled out as clearly to him as usual, and it worried him.But there is no need to let worry spread among the people, unless the day comes when they have to be told.Maybe it was just because he was too distracted by other things that he couldn't hear the whispers of the elements carefully.Forefathers, as the great chief of the tribe, there are too many things that need to be distracted. "The orcs' new homeland, Durotan, is indeed a difficult place. However, this is nothing new. The environment here has always been difficult to live in. But we are orcs, and this land is suitable for us. Because it is hard, because it is wild, because it is Because few races other than orcs can make a living here. We are originally from Draenor, and warlock magic has wiped out most of life there. We can't do the same to this world now. When I regrouped the Horde , I could have taken a more fertile piece of land. But I didn't." There was a murmur in the hall.Kane squinted his eyes and looked at him, obviously not understanding why Thrall reminded his people that no matter how optimistic they looked, Durotan could only be regarded as a difficult place.He gave his old friend a slight nod, almost imperceptibly, as if to say he knew what he was doing. "I didn't do that because we've made mistakes in this world. But we've come here and we have the right to live and find a home of our own. I chose a piece of land that could be our own - a piece of land A land that demands our wholehearted devotion. Living here helps us cleanse us of the curse that once wounded our race. It makes us stronger, tougher, and more orc-like than we would be if we lived in comfort. .” The murmur of complaint turned to a voice of approval, and Kane relaxed. "I abide by my choice. I am well aware that the sons and daughters of Durotan will give for Northrend. But our land will give as well. No one thought that the cost of supplies for the Battle of Northrend would be so high. But we can Refuse the call to war?" No one spoke.No one will ignore this, no matter what the cost may be. "So our land gave as much as we did, until at last it nearly dried up. Now we must turn our attention to our own land, to our own needs. The events of Wrathgate brought a As an unfortunate consequence, the League has a new reason to turn against us. I know some of you find it all right, and others are happy about it. But I'm sure none of you will be happy about the fact that now , the night elves have closed all trade routes with us." All present knew what that meant—no more wood for building, no more hunting rights in Ashenvale, no more safe passage from areas patrolled by Sentinels.There was a moment's silence, and then angrily murmured. "Warchief, may I speak?" Kane said in a low and calm voice.Thrall smiled at his old friend. "Go ahead. I always welcome your advice." "Our people have a connection with the night elves that other tribe members don't have." Kane continued, "We are all followers of the way of Cenarius. We even have a common land where we can communicate peacefully and share knowledge and wisdom. Sanctuary, Moonglade. I know they are angry with the Horde, but I don't think all ties are severed. I think the druids would be the best emissaries to restart the peace talks. Archdruid Hamuul? Wentotem knows many kaldorei." He nodded to the archdruid, motioning for him to stand up and speak. "Yes, Warchief. I have had friendship with them for many years. The Kaldorei may resent us, but they do not like to see children starved to death, even if they are the children of their so-called enemies. I am in Senari We may be able to renegotiate with them, especially now that a peace treaty has been signed. If the Warchief allows me to approach them, we may be able to persuade them—” "Persuade them? Negotiate? Pooh!" Garrosh really spit on the ground. "It's a shame to hear such crying words come out of the mouths of members of the Horde! The Wrathgate incident has hurt both of us, and you all forgot little Saurfang and died with him and then was killed Evil resurrected as the walking dead against our many warriors? Those elves have no more claim to be victims than we do!" "Irreverent boy," Kane yelled at Garrosh, "you use the name of little Saurfang as an excuse for yourself, and at the same time openly contradict the wisdom of the bereaved father." "I don't agree with Saurfang's tactics, but that doesn't mean I despise his son's sacrifice!" Garrosh retorted, "Since you have lived so long and experienced so many battles, you should understand this! Yes, I disagree. I said it to him, and I say it to you now! Warchief Thrall, let's stop getting pissed at those pretentious night elves like a kicked dog. Before my troops are disbanded, we will rush into Ashvale now and grab what we need." They both leaned toward each other, yelling at each other over Thrall's head as if he didn't exist.Thrall allowed them because he wanted to judge the relationship between the two, but now he raised his hand majestically and snapped. "It's not that simple, Garrosh." Garrosh turned his head to retort, but Thrall narrowed his blue eyes warningly, and the young orc closed his mouth and sat down in sullen silence. "Grand Warlord Saurfang understands," Thrall continued, "and so does Kane and I and Hamuul. You've just had your first taste of combat and performed extremely well, but you'll soon understand The world is not just black and white." Kane sat back in his chair, apparently calmed down.But Thrall could see that Garrosh hadn't suppressed the fire in his heart.At least, Thrall thought, he's done listening but not talking. "Varian Wrynn's attitude towards us is becoming more and more violent." This is thanks to your credit. Thrall didn't add this sentence, because he knew that Garrosh could hear the meaning between the words. "Gianna was his friend, but also supported our cause." "She's still an alliance scum!" "She's still an ally, yes," Thrall said loudly, "but anyone who's ever been with me, or anyone who's had the time to read the Chronicle Scrolls of recent years, knows she's an honest and wise Humans. Do you think Cairne Bloodhoof is not loyal enough?" Garrosh was taken aback by the sudden change of subject.He fixed his eyes on Kane, who sat up and grunted. "I—of course not. No one would question his loyalty and dedication to the Horde," he answered carefully, lest he fall into a trap.Sal nodded.Despite the defensiveness in Garrosh's tone, the words sounded sincere. "That's what a fool would do. Jaina's loyalty to the Alliance does not prevent her from being committed to the peace and prosperity of all inhabitants of Azeroth. Cairne's loyalty to the Horde is the same. His advice is very wise. It doesn't take much Pay more and you get what you pay for. If the night elves agree to renegotiate, that's great. If they don't, we'll look elsewhere." Kane looked at Hamuul Runetotem, who nodded and said, "Thank you, Warchief. I deeply believe that this is the right path, one that respects the suffering of Mother Earth, and protects the Horde. The materials urgently needed for post-war recovery were obtained.” "As always, friend, I thank you for your service." Thrall turned to Garrosh and said, "Garrosh, you are the son of someone close to me. I have heard that you are called a hero of Northrend, I think It's a fitting title. But I personally think that warriors sometimes struggle to find their place after the war is over. I, Thrall, son of Durotan and Draco, assure you that I will work with you to find a suitable title. position where your talents and abilities can be best used by the Horde." His meaning has been clearly stated in the words.He admired Garrosh for his work in Northrend, but those talents were no longer useful, and he needed more time to consider how Garrosh could best serve the Horde. But Garrosh obviously didn't understand Thrall's plan.He narrowed his eyes and growled softly. "Of course, everything is as the warchief wishes. Great Thrall, if you will allow me, I think the air here is too stuffy." Before Thrall could respond to the sarcastic words, Garrosh stood up, nodded to Thrall out of courtesy, and strode out. "This child is still a Kodo that is kicking its head." Kane said softly. Thrall sighed, "It's a pity to abandon it." He raised his arm and raised his voice and announced: "The air is too stuffy. Drink some more to moisten your throat!" Cheers erupted, and the attention of the crowd was momentarily diverted.Thrall pondered Kane's and his own words, wondering what exactly could be done to tame the kodo without harming him. But Garrosh's status with the Horde, while a huge annoyance to Thrall, wasn't at the top of his mind.His primary concern is the well-being of his people and the tribe as a whole, and the suffering of the elementals.His people clamored for more lumber to build their houses, and the world seemed to be in chaos. He chose Durotan for the same reason as before - because it would enable his people to pay for the damage they caused, because the land would make them tougher and stronger.But he never expected so many rivers to dry up, nor did he expect so many thin forests to be cut down for this absolutely necessary and dangerous war. No, Thrall thought as he took a sip of his beer.Taming a rebellious Kodo should be the least important thing at the moment.