Cataclysm Journal 20!

What lies beneath..

So, from the point where we last left off from. Feignheart and I had our stay cut short in Dalaran after receiving an urgent message and quest back from the old world. Alerting us to a whole new threat to Azeroth, we used what little time we had left to rest and prepare.. Prepare.. Prepare for what exactly. With the smell of adventure in the air we packed our rucksacks and sharpened our arrows, claws and teeth. Though we could never fully brace ourselves. For what lay in the path ahead, what perils and countless dangers, beyond the Hero's Hearthstone, was truly unknown.

To the Golden Keg..

We find ourselves back in the world we started, in the city of Stormwind, where we receive another quest to seek out a shaman on the cities outskirts. A Shaman named Naraat, the Earthspeaker. After some small talk, we were shown a vision. This 'vision' displayed Thrall, leader of the Orcs, in the centre of what was described as the Maelstrom. Amidst all this confusion of chaos, you leave the vision and return, where you are directed to make way to Stormwind Harbour and board a boat to look further into the source of the destruction. The adventure starts now...

Ambushed!

Once we arrive on the docks, word has it that we are apparently receiving reported 'attacks' from what seems to be the Horde. So with none of the Alliance ships having yet returned, we start being heaved onto Mercenary ships. Pirate ships. I must break and say, the voice acting while aboard the ship and so on was absolutely fantastic! Really set the scene! (As can be heard in the beginning of my video above). I say 'While on-board' as it wasn't long until we found ourselves being ambushed by a GIANT sea monstrosity! Some form of Octopus attacks the moving ship and rips us off deck and down into the water. Without a moment to think, we are swept away by a group of Naga, unconscious and unable to react. Welcome to Vashj'ir.

(CLICK TO ENLARGE)

Split into three sections, this stunning underwater display is like nothing we have ever encountered so far in our travels. By underwater, I mean the entire zone is beneath the Great Sea! The first section is a never ending bastion of coral reefs and scenes of complete wonder with sea life just 'leaking' from every corner. Imagine Stranglethron Vale Flooded. Not to mention, Finding Nemo does come to mind.. Meanwhile the second two sections are a lot darker, filled with even more mystery and hidden depths. Throughout, an image speaks a thousand words to uphold the sheer spectacle:

Step to the left..

Now. With the depths of this aquatic expanse obviously being underwater, some adaptations have of course been made. For starters, we have acquired [Sea Legs] which allow us to breath underwater and brings in a new game-mechanic giving us the ability to run along the sea floor! Now what about a mount? Well that's when we go onto a very, very interestingly sporadic quest indeed. You know those dance machines you find in the arcade towards the back of that unoccupied house tucked away in Stormwind ? No, Feignheart hasn't jumped on one of those. However, take the concept, and apply to to wrestling a sea creature. (As in the image to the right). You have to use the keys on the arrow-pad in mirror with what appears on the screen in a random sequence. Developers, we have to hand it to you when we said we couldn't have prepared for what was to come. Anyway, back to it. This ended up rewarding us with our very own mount for Vashj'ir - [Subdued Abyssal Seahorse]. Filled with treasure maps, more on-the-move quests, bombing missions and a complete overhaul in quest pace, you cannot help but feel compelled to keep going!

It Lives...

Now, on the subject of pace. Within the first few quests, I noticed a slight challenge or delay in my usual mob killing time. This was due to the huge health increase and not to mention attacks of enemy mobs. However, like normal expansion transitions, with a few replacement greens you soon find yourself fighting fit once again. Though the surge in stats is huge! This lead me to reaching 16k crits! Looks like Cataclysm must have a threat to contend with! Either way, those numbers sure do appeal to Feignheart who managed to obtain [Cobra Shot], a nature damage attack, and a new pet talent for SugarDaddy called [Sic'em], which bolsters your pets focus.

Along the way, you work alongside the Earthen Ring, who are Shamans from across the globe. While being very similar to the Druids, they also express how they are different. Further down the line, a quest chain in fact, we managed to work our way into a Naga disguise and play as one of them! This leads you into battle against the Vrykul who we encountered back in Northrend. All of which really shone out and created nothing but fun! It's like a whole new game!

Left on a major cliffhanger, with the achievement for 1500 quest completed and a fraction from 83! It's back to Stormwind for our next mission. Until next time, where Feignheart follows the fiery trail of adventure...

Want more - Watch it all in ACTION!

Thanks for reading!

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- Jamin

Eh? Captain Bubbles?!

Cataclysm Journal 19!

The land of the Titans..

The Storm Peaks

Onwards, and into the reaches of The Snow.. I mean, The Storm Peaks. Upon entering the zone, I feel like I am back in Dragonblight with the snow covered plains and wide open scenes. However. Once you begin to look up to the soaring heights, cliff tops, and mountains that initial feeling is lost. To mention, you really do require a flying mount to progress in this zone and of which even applies when in spirit form (Dead)...

Boom.. Boom.. And BOOM AGAIN!

So, your introduction to the zone begins in the Goblin town of K3. The green skin residents who stereotypically find that any problem has a solution which involves a large volume of explosives or of similar sort, as I will soon explain. Their primary reason for being here is just as many in the area. The mysteries of the Titans. Though more specifically, their treasures. While following a number of quest lines within the town which proved to be quite fun, a benefit of the Goblin race, I came across a minefield. Not just any minefield however. This one had air defences to make things worse! Anyway, while on the quest, a suggestion from the great achievement junkie @Aralosseien from Achievements Ahoy came in. This lead me to go for the achievement 'Mine Sweeper', which involved me bouncing around (and dying..multiple times) trying to set off as many mines as possible one after another in a chain. All in all, a really great challenge, so thanks for the telling Feignheart and myself about it!

The Hyldnir

Soon enough, the games had to come to a halt, for it was time for us to work our way further up into the peaks. To the Hyldnir. These giant beings to say the least, were like no other I have ever encountered in my travels so far. More surprisingly, compared to majority of factions, these were all women! None to be underestimated though. Pretty much the female equivalent to the Vrykul, of whom are held as slaves and captives for these strong minded Viking warrior women. Once getting a foothold, you again find yourself taking on another disguise to fight your way through a deadly tournament alongside and against these unforgiving blue skins. All of which acts as a prelude to meeting the mighty Thorim. This is where the main plot for The Storm Peaks really begins to jump into action. With Thorim being one of the protectors of Ulduar, set forth by the Titans, having his throne stolen by his evil brother Loken (had 'Clash of The Titans' in mind at this point), things really start to get interesting.

Machines of the Titans

Seeing as the Titans are such a fundamental part to the zone, and everything in Azeroth as we know, I feel they deserve some highlighting. To make it simple, they are the creators of the world in which you exist in. All of whom left many years ago, and placed a number of protectors such as Thorim in charge of keeping their creation in control and in order. While heading from place to place, evidence of what the Titans left behind (As pictured to the left) are all around you. I got the feeling, that it was similar to 'War Of The Worlds', in which machines of unthinkable size and power alongside huge caves of grand infrastructure can be found buried beneath our very feat. Underneath the snow. In the faces of the mountains we climb. Mysteries covered up, and waiting to be discovered.

Before moving on, I would like to stay on the topic of the titans and their influence within the current zone. As to the north lies Ulduar. The Heart of the Titan workings. Just full to the brim of history and Knowledge. I think an image describes my notes a thousand times over, of the sheer magnitude and epic proportion to the mine-zone...

Ulduar

.. Magnificent to say the least. This also includes the dungeon instance Halls of Lightning, which also holds an absolute expanse in size. In which Feignheart hit level 80!


Now. Although I had hit 80, and received my congratulating letter in the mail from Rhonin, I felt no reason to move on. I wanted to finish what I had started! So I did go on and continue through the zone, really taking on board everything it had to offer.

Halls of Lightning

What did catch my attention? Maybe some of my readers remember the Noggenfogger Elixir from Tanaris? Because I came across a collection of drinks from a vendor, which all worked similar to the elixir, however with a range of different effects such as Drakefire Chile Ale or Iron Boot Flask. These were all purchasable with the currency in the zone, which existed in the form of Relics of Ulduar. Which were also used to buy my new Giant Ring Belt from the Sons of Hodir. All good fun!

How could I go without mentioning one of the best zone-finales so far?! The epic flight escape with one of the greatest explorers ever, Brann Bronzebeard! Although this quest did prove troublesome with a hunter, as you could only use melee attacks, we got through it soon enough. Which was all worth it for, what I will state, as an unmissable scene! Brothers re-united. That is all I will say, as I believe it should be experienced by any of haven't already.

Do not disturb!

So, after that, it was time to head on back to the city of Dalaran to take a much needed rest at the Inn. This allowed Feignheart to pick up a new skill from the hunter trainer. Mastery. Which actually allows you access to a new stat rather than a new skill. Time to keep an eye out for this!

Anyway, it appears our stay was to be cut short! It became apparent after reading the cities Hero's Board, from where we received an urgent plea for help! Urgent enough to grant us with an additional (one use) Hearthstone to an important gathering within the The Golden Keg in the Dwarven District of Stormwind.

The adventure continues, like no other...

A QUESTION TO ALL MY READERS

It seems that we have just hit a new milestone! 2000 hits! Which is even more reason for me to ask everyone this. Seeing as Feignheart is soon to take on the new fight in azeroth in his quest from 80-85, I would like to implement something else into my entries! Whether it be in the form of videos or more pictures? I want to hear exactly what YOU THE READER want to see!

So get in contact! Leave a comment, vote in the poll (to the right), tweet me @JaminWarcraft or even email me at:

Jamin@TimeWastedTuesday.net

Until next time,

Thanks for reading!

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- Jamin

Goblins.. Just Typical!

Cataclysm Journal 18!

Time to take a short stop..

Dalaran

While departing from Dragonblight and heading to Zul'Drak, I took some time to head to the city of Dalaran! This allowed Feignheart and myself to get some well needed rest at the Inn, to regain our strength for the journey ahead. This included a trip to the Auction House and the Hunter Trainer, which were most needed. The break also allowed us to finally pick up Artisan Flying! The saving really paid off, or should I say paid out! Worth every penny I should mention. Every last piece of copper we had earned. All 4750 gold of it! However to my surprise, a new mount wasn't needed to accompany the skill. Seems that your current mount becomes 'upgraded' to fit. So watch out Azeroth! For Feignheart now has a 280!

Violet Hold

The actual city itself floats above the forests of Crystalsong. Although the forest is as mystically enchanting as can be, it seems to have no relevance whatsoever (in terms of quests). Though Dalaran does indeed hold some magnificent sites, kind of like the Las Vegas of WoW. If I am honest, it seems like somewhere that should have been in 'The Wizard of Oz'. Within the city also exists a dungeon instance. This happens to be Violet Hold,which is pretty much a prison for all the terrible creatures which have been locked away for their crimes. This lead me to getting my hands on some new weaponry - Prison Wardens Shotgun.

Zul'Drak

With all due haste, we set out once again. This time for the mysteries of  Zul'Drak! The once mighty empire of the Drakarri Trolls, until the invasion of the scourge. The Trolls had lived in isolation in this pre-historic land alongside smaller tribes of Furblolgs and other inhabitants for decades, before the scourge showed up and began spreading their infestation across the land. Those who became infected by the deadly plagues that the scourge had let loose, later became the Drakuru (servants of the Lich King). This Tribal race of Trolls began performing rituals, which involved sacrificing their own Animal Gods. All to gain unmeasurable amounts of power, to combat the scourge. It was to be their own demise.

Here come the scourge...

The land itself is laid out in levels. Working it's way up to the heart of the Drakarri settlements. Within the vast wilderness exist grand stone temples and monuments, which are camouflaged in the surrounding mist and treacherous looking wildlife. When travelling, you come across a number of shrines which accept particular 'Drakkari Offerings'. These of course give you a Zone-Wide buff to assist you in battle. For example one gives you a huge Attack Power increase. Overall, with the looping drums in the background, the lurking snakes, hidden traps and the whole atmosphere of the area. I get one idea... INDIANA JONES!

The Arena!

Another great concept in this zone, or repeat of Gadgetzan, is The Arena. Which is of course run by a goblin, just typical. Anyway, the Arena is a lot grander than the Tanaris original (As you can see pictured to the right). Also, this one requires a full group of allies, suggested 5. However, due to a lack of players in the vicinity, I was lucky enough to receive the help from a level 85 TG buddy. Though this proved way less challenging, it was fun none the less. This was emphasized by the interesting bosses we fought, including a Tuskarr who had an evil army of... Penguins? Before moving on. A real word of warning! Make sure, especially when wandering along the main path running through the zone, to keep your eyes peeled, although the danger is hard to miss. As this is the route of which Thrym 'The Hope Ender' takes! Pretty much an oversized version of Frankenstein, he still has a habit of sneaking up on you despite the sheer size of him.. or it. Eventually you do come to an inevitable clash with this monstrosity, but more on that to come later...

The Hope Ender..

This zone, compared to Dragonblight, is fairly short. Though nothing far from the excitement that it set. Mean, who doesn't take privilege in investigating wild animals, to see what gender they are? Different I guess. At the start of your quest, you discover that the scourge want you! They have been trying to trap you into becoming one of them. This is where it gets interesting. With this information, you are instructed to give them a taste of their own medicine. Your going undercover! 007 style. Mission Impossible. You get the drift... So you grab your disguise and pretend that you've undergone the transformation, and begin to work your way up the ranks. Mingling with the scourge, who could ever have imagined. You even go to the extent of buying goods from them and completing their quests. All for the good of Azeroth though right?  No doubt that this was an excellent quest-line that really hooked me in, especially with the end resulting in another meeting with the Lich King!

Scourge Transport?

As you go through the zone, you also find yourself taking a Storm Giant for a ride. This, with its clever use of phasing, was by far one of the best quests yet to date. Literally trampling any scourge that come within your reach - or footstep! This is where you finally get to destroy the mighty Thrum and all the other scourge bosses. Now, last but not least, Gundrak. Let me re-emphasize the Indiana Jones feeling in this instance. Anyway, a nice fun run through the instance granted me with yet another weapon replacement for the one I had only just received in Violet Hold - Drakkari Hunting Bow!

During my adventures, I have noticed something. Nothing seriously problematic however. While leveling from 60-80 it seems that their is very little hunter orientated gear. This meaning, since the class change in Cataclysm. As a lot of the Mail gear includes intellect and so on, of which we no longer require. I see that a lot of the Leather equipment is more suited, but with the Mail Specialization, I try to avoid it. Though, I don't want to sound like I'm complaining, as there is still more than enough gear to suit. What do you think? Now, what new abilities has Feignheart picked up now:

• Masters Call.
• Deterrence. - Like a panic button of sort.
• Heart of The Phoenix
• Misdirection - Threat problems - Goodbye! Also great for soloing, to aim onto your pet

So a really great set of skills/utilities to play with! Also, I have found a really neat way of soloing elites. Nothing new I bet, but something I have discovered.The use of Concussive Shot and Distracting Shot. Basically kiting the mob between you and your pet!

One of the Animal Prophets!

Coming to a close on this edition on Cataclysm Journals. Feignheart is now at the grand level of 78 and is now again in a split decision. Storm Peaks or Icecrown?! YOU DECIDE!


Now before I do finish I would like anyone interested, of which you should be, in my latest addon! Head over to my review on Time Wasted Tuesday for all the information:

Addon Review: Multishot

Until next time,

Thanks for reading!

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- Jamin

FIRESTARTER!

Cataclysm Journal 17!

Finally.. It's here..

SugarDaddy

However, before we set off. I would like to announce the new name of my trustee companion. Introducing SugarDaddy, previously know as 'dog' up until now. The name, which may seem quite unfitting for some, was an inside joke within TG. Initiating the name change required me to pick up a Certificate of Ownership from the Auction House for around 50 gold, which deemed simple enough. Now you may be wondering, 'why so much attention around your pet?'. Well like I have mentioned before, dog.. or should I say SugarDaddy, has been my loyal companion since day one. Even though I can swap him at any time, I've grown to have a sentimental value around him. Not to mention that he has been through all the same adventures that Feighnheart has, and being Beast Mastery of course revolves around your pet. So that I feel is enough to justify giving him some of the spotlight.

Wrymrest Temple

Anyway. Feignheart's Adventure, alongside SugarDaddy, now leads them to the Land of the Dragons. Dragonblight. This vastly covered snow terrain, resonating a very 'arcane' power feeling which is only bolstered by the magical creatures and mythical, yet fully present, dragons which inhibit it, is not one to be overlooked. Another aspect which completely sets the scene, is that of the music. The soothing, yet occasionally intense, piano playing really embarks you into a sense of adventure and emotion. Altogether, I was really sucked into the zone, it's story and everything it and the environment had to offer. Narnia especially comes to mind. This zone also features the raid instance, Naxxramus.

The Tuskarr

The people and creatures of the blight. Along my adventure through this expansive area, I encountered many new and reappearing factions. Firstly there are the Tuskarr, of whom struck me as a very inquisitive race and faction. They seem to share very similar traits, such as a wish for peace and tranquillity, as the Tauren. Locked in a war with the Wolvar, I feel their race holds room for much expansion. Across the land exists other factions, such as the arachnid Nerubians, the mighty Argent Crusade and the merciless Scarlet Onslaught. However, much of the focus is based around the 'Dragonflights'..

Ruby Dragonshrine

The Dragonflights, hence 'land of the dragons', are a combination of five main different sub-factions of dragons. These are each obvious by their colours. There are the Red, Bronze and Green Dragonflights to begin with. Then there is the Blue Dragonflight, which we encountered previously in the Borean Tundra, who have now gone bad with their leader Malygos turned insane. Last but not least there is the Black Dragonflight, who are the dark and seemingly untrustworthy allies in the Flights. More convincingly when you think that Deathwing himself is part of the same sub-faction. They base their operations in the Wymrest Temple (pictured above), in the centre of the Blight, which is heavily guarded. This is where each of the flight leaders congregate. To note, each leader has their human forms and each flight has its own shrine within the zone. You eventually find yourself meeting the leader of the red Dragonflight, who also happens to be Queen of the Dragonflights, Alexstrasa. Along your journey, you also find that the scourge are trying to resurrect a mighty dragon, who is by far the biggest to have ever existed, who went by the name of Galakrond. By looking at parts of the skeleton, you can only imagine the sheer size him.

Future you

Moving on. A word of warning, especially in this zone. Watch out for flying mobs, including elite ones! I found this out the hard way when I flew into the zone while reading the quest log and ended up being dazed/dismounted and falling to my eventual death. So look out. Anyway, something which caught my attention was the number of group quests in the zone. Although I can normally solo the majority of them, some of these really did require assistance. Not to mention one, The Plume of Alystros, which after completing I still ended up repeating as others in zone required assistance. I like to do my bit to help you see. Another quest which was really cool, was when you assist the Bronze Dragonflight, and find yourself fighting alongside the future you. After the quest you get told by this future version of yourself to 'go get some better gear', which I seemingly found hilarious! Then there was a heroic quest which gets your flying an alliance gryphon into battle to rescue villagers, while saying 'Come with me if you want to live'. Doesn't get any better than that.

Looking down...

Falling down...

And down...

Now, onto Dungeons. First off, Azjol Nerub. Short and sweet. However, as you can see above, includes a unique form of travel. Which is a lengthy hole to fall down into a pit of water. Then, Old Kingdom. What I found really fascinating about this one, was the last boss. He drives you insane, literally. You find yourself turned onto your allies, of whom you have to kill in an alternate reality, before being thrown back onto the boss. Totally unexpected, but what a great mechanic!

Back to quests. However, a line that which was best saved until last. The zone includes a constantly unwinding quest line, which is ongoing as you venture throughout. The quests lead you along the main story/plot of the expansion. At one point you find yourself situated in Frostmourne cave where Arthas first discovers the almighty, but cursed, sword. (As to avoid spoilers) this never ending story, which is just so compelling, leads you all the way to Angrathar, better know as The Wrath Gate. Nothing can describe this absolutely unmissable mini-section. With its AMAZING use of phasing, as you will see in the following pictures, and truly EPIC cinematic, you get sucked right into the game and all its glory.

.. After!

Before the chaos...

Feignheart, alongside his faithful consort, have now battled their way through the blight and all its mysteries, and it is now time to move on in the quest for adventure. Briefly making a quick stop in the city of Dalaran, they plan to set off to either Grizzly Hills OR Zul Drak. Which one? YOU DECIDE. Level 75, and unknowing where the road will take them, we depart.


Before you go. Blogroll! I have finally created a blogroll from around the blogosphere. Check it out - Shattered Beginnings Blogroll ! Think you have content that you feel deserves some recognition? Then get in contact!

Latest at Time Wasted Tuesday

The Secret Guilty Pleasure 

How do you feel the game we all love fits into your real life. I want to hear what you think! Don't miss it!

Thanks for reading!

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- Jamin

Worgen Sauna!

Cataclysm Journal 16!

Across the seas, and Feignheart's adventure continues...

The Borean Tundra

After the treacherous venture across the seas of Azeroth, Feigheart finally took his first steps on the continent of Northrend! This happened to be the destination of the Borean Tundra which was in need of help, as stated on the Stormwind 'Hero Board'. So with 'Cold Weather Flying' now under my belt, which allowed me to take to the skies of Northrend, I am set for adventure. My first location was the docking city in the Tundra. Valiance Keep. 

Enlist Here!

Upon arriving at the keep and stepping off the boat, I seemed to get a real refreshing sense. Another change in atmosphere. A new wind. The scene is set in a 'war-effort' mood. With the fortress still being built and people queueing to join the fight ,which as usual, includes you! Quests kick off with helping to defend the keep from ongoing assaults from the Scourge. This includes the infamous - 'Cult of the Damned'. This faction are those who willingly serve to help the scourge and ultimately the Lich King (Mirroring Satanism in a way). Later you also find yourself participating in the torture of one of the members in a feat to gain information. Overall you begin the zone at a nice steady pace.

The actual zone of the Tundra itself is rather strange. At first you think it will be a large icy glacier.  However you then start to see planes of green. Then followed by scourge infected area's and even a Gnome Airstrip, which includes a desert plane!? Here are some shots from the zone: (Click to enlarge)

Gnome Airstrip

The Icy Shores

Deserts?!

Scourge City

The Nexus

Talking about the zone and its mixed environments. There also happened to be an entire sub-zone. Only small mind you. Though enough to set it apart from the rest. Coldarra. An area revolved and held by the Blue Dragonflight, who are fearsome foes to contend with. I experienced this first hand when I was taken out of the sky by one of the soaring dragons, which lead me to fall to my eventual death. I say eventual, because this was from some considerable height. Anyway, this whole zone circled around the instances, one of which called The Nexus. I took two dungeon runs in here to complete all the quests I had gathered, and they proved to be quite a blast. However. The most astonishing thing to me was.. Dungeon Maps are back! This was due to the fact that Outland lacked the feature.

Saving (Murloc) Babies is What We Do!

While travelling around the lands, I encountered some other new or unexpected factions. Firstly I came across a small pack of Walrus-like creatures, which gave me a nice handful of quests including one which directed me to Dragonblight. Then.. Then came.. THE MURLOCS! Surprisingly this time your fighting alongside them! I become one of them! One of the tribe. Just epic. This sent me along to go save some Murloc babies and princesses. Which is all just in the day of Feignhearts adventures!

Thassarian

Moving on. Now to a rather compelling piece of the story alongside some interesting quest lines. These primarily revolve around a character named Thassarian. The first mention of Death Knights, of which he happens to be. Sadly this was all very short, but ended with quite a scene which really got the story to grab again. One of which I struggled quite hard to solo (As it was a group quest), though I did get there in the end. This also became Feignhearts first sighting of.. The Lich King!


Time for a Hunter Update. 


The usual happened as I completed my first few quests in Northrend. My gear was almost all replaced by greens. Nothing I wasn't expecting there. That's nothing though. Two amazing new changes have occurred in the latest patch. Firstly. Darkflight now stacks with other speed enhancements (Which includes Aspect of the Cheetah!). Now if that wasn't amazing enough, you can now Shoot while on the move! Okay. The second isn't a major change, but its big enough for me, as it just gives the hunter such a better feel to it! Now to implement mounted attacks...

Talent Party:

• Rapid Killing - A very nice ability (Similar to a warriors victory rush) which increases damage with certain abilities after killing anything which yields XP/Honour.
• Charge (Pet) - Allows your pet to charge enemy's
• Wild Hunt (Pet) - Allows your pets to deal extra damage when over a specific amount of focus. Really cool for 'burst' damage!
• Call of the Wild (Pet) - A shout which increases Attack Power.
• Rabid (Pet) - An attack power increase buff which stacks. Another form of Beastial Wrath for your pet.

All of this has proved to be a huge DPS increase throughout, not to mention faster speed in kill-rate! This includes better, pet, threat generation. Also I have now branched into the Marksman Talent Tree, with the acquirement of Rapid Killing.

Feignhearts latest weapon!

Last but not least, a little thought of how I feel the new continent has been so far. Mainly in comparison to Outlands. To begin, the quest-lines are a lot broader and quite a bit more meaningful which include an option of where to head first. Even though they all come together at some point, there seems to be a nice balance between diversity, and a linear story line. So far, so good.


1000 Quests now completed! Some Murloc Babies saved. Wolf faeces searched (For a quest of course..). All gaining me my first honoured WotLK Faction, which happened to be 'The Valiance Expedition', and leaving Feignheart and myself at the level 72!


Thanks for reading!

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- Jamin

(P.S. Check out my latest TimeWastedTuesday post - Topic Shuffle) 

 

 

Cows go Moo!

AoF: A Story Untold - Chapter One

So, as many of you know, I had been working on my first ever 'FanFiction' piece. This was brought on by a writing competition held over at The Dark Order. Unfortunately I didn't get as much written as initially planned, however I didn't want to sacrifice quality for quantity. To my surprise, it has just granted me with 1st place within the competition! Here is the competition announcement page - http://www.thedarkorder.com/?p=206

Also I now have my place in the - 'FanFiction Contest Hall of Fame' !

Anyway, before you go on to read the entry and my first ever FanFiction piece, I would like to say a few things. Firstly a big thank you to Arphalas over at The Dark Order! This competition really has given me more than enough inspiration to continue with what I have been doing, including a massive amount of motivation to write a continuation and follow up to the piece you are about to read. So look out for more instalments! Now without further a due, I present...

Adventures of Feignheart:

A Story Untold

Chapter one.
(Entry for ‘The Dark Order’ writing contest)

By Jamin

The skies darken above me. The world begins to fade. Every part of me feels reversed. Happiness turned to hunger. Passion turned to rage. I feel trapped within my own body. Memories of what was, what I was, start to blur. What is happening to me?! Where did my sanity go...

I was a hero among my people. The city of Gilneas is what I fought for! Battling against anything which would try to threaten my homeland, my people and most of all, my family. People applauded me everywhere I went. Even the King himself, Genn Greymane, gave me a title. I was Feignheart ‘Protector of The People’! But that all changed.

Somehow evil, unknowingly, passed through our towering walls and crept into the city. In the form of foul, relentless DOGS! These creatures, which tore apart any that stood in their way, gradually began pouring onto the city. I gathered together the Army of Gilneas. I lead them to fight head on with the beasts. We didn’t let a single one of the filthy animals escape our sights. They appeared to be coming from all over the place. From within the woodwork it seemed! We continued to fight on, while our own numbers began to drop. However. Not all of those missing, that we assumed to be dead, were found...

Soon enough we were outnumbered. That is when I was struck. Down from the rooftops they came. One managed to take a tear out of me. Down my back I was ripped from top to bottom. Covered in blood I carried on the fight, until. Until it all went black.

I awoke in a haze. I could feel burning. A burning sensation to KILL! My dreary eyesight allowed me to make out what seemed to be a prison cell. With the figures of those I called my friends, some even my family, on the other side. What is the going on? As I hung from what I could only make out to be chains, for the second time, everything went black.

Once again, I woke. This time to be landed the floor, and down from the chains. I lifted my head to see my vision had returned and I was shocked to realise I was in the cities dungeon cells. Then what I was about to see, could never leave me. With no recollection of what had happened, I saw, behind the shattered bars of my cell, the bodies. The bodies of my family! Ripped from limb to limb. Claw marks scared their entire bodies. No longer any identity to their once recognisable faces. I couldn’t bare the sight. I got to my feet and ran as fast as I could. Up and up until I reached the ground level of the castle. I made my way to the outside. It was the black of night, though all seemed visible with the enormous glistening full moon above me. It was then I heard the cries and the screams echoing throughout the streets. I followed them. As fast as my legs could carry me! Until I arrived at the centre of the city. The battle was not over.

Those who had survived the continuous attacks from the beasts were still engaged in full out combat, taking a beating from their ongoing assaults. In the distance I could make out one of my officers, who had been loyal to my command for as long as I can remember. He was face to face with the monstrous creatures. I took up the sword of one of my fallen comrades and began rushing to his aid. But then everything went silent. The enemy began to retreat. On all fours they began to turn, and run. However, none of my soldiers pursued. Instead they began dropping their very own weapons! Above the cries, came terrifying howls. Enough to make the mind and body of any man go cold. Then it happened. 

Nothing could prepare me, for what I was about to see. Those that I had fought alongside for years, that I had lived with all my life, changed. In synchronisation, they all began yelling and screaming in what seemed to be pain, or rather fear. They all fell to the floor, to their knees. Then my commander, my trusted friend, took one last look at me, a look I shall remember for all my life, before turning away. Each of them then began letting out the same spine chilling howl, directed towards to moon. Grunts, roars and all kinds of ghastly noises erupted from them. As before my eyes, they transformed. Into the very enemy we had been fighting! I couldn’t describe how the souls of men and women alike we shredded apart both mentally and physically in those few moments. For it wasn’t very long before I heard the familiar thundering sound of war-drums from behind me.

To be continued...


Thanks for reading!

Look out for Adventures of Feignheart and A Story Untold, very soon!

Keep Posted - Follow/Comment/Subscribe

Jamin

(P.S. The next issue of 'Cataclysm Journals' is soon to arrive!) 

The Borean Tundra

A Moment To Reflect

Lets take a step back...

Gaze into the abyss

So seeing as I have been rather distant lately, due to; Real Life, My Birthday and a lot of behind the scene creations for the blog and beyond. I feel it is time to reflect on my journey so far and what is in store for the future of Shattered Beginnings and Feignheart..

To kick off I am going to give an overview of how my experiences on the journey from 1-70 have been. I made a similar post on Time Wasted Tuesday a while back, which can be found here - Something Different. However this time I will include a lot more detail on my views and opinions which I have gathered on my travels. Since my first steps in Azeroth to my current steps onto the dock in Stormwind Harbour, awaiting my trip to Northrend.

I will spilt it into two parts. Firstly 1-60, Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdoms, and then 60-70, Outland.

0-60

Fighting for Gilneas

Feignheart's initial steps began in the starting area of Gilneas. The experience of the first 10 levels and the whole atmosphere of the Worgen theme were just unreal. I just instantly felt sucked in and truly convinced. From the Victorian theme to the old-English accent. It all felt so original.

Until it was time to move on. On to the re-created Azeroth. Which overall, met on the same levels which had been set by my 1-10 experience. First, off to Darkshore. Thereafter hitting zones such as The Southern Barrens, Winterspring, Tanaris and so on. All of which, after their 're-creation', remained exciting, interesting and again original every time you entered a new zone or picked up a new quest. I can honestly say my experience during those 60 levels were second to none, from what I have journeyed through so far. Although it did seem a little fast at times, which I see as a good thing. As it leaves it more desirable to level through again when I one day decide to make a new character.

60-70

A flight from the Dark Portal

Now for the second half. I will start off getting this across. That I didn't enjoy Outlands as much *WHILE LEVELING* compared to the previous 1-60.

The journey through Outlands changed the atmosphere instantly. I did get a good feeling of 'epic-ness' as I travelled through the first zone of Hellfire Peninsula. The music and the large settings/scenery gave me an image of real adventure. The same can also be said for the zones which followed.

However. Because of the way you take a step back in time. Literally (not just in game). Seeing as this whole continent was released way before cataclysm and even WoTLK. This zone, for obvious reasons, hasn't been affected by the cataclysm and therefore has had pretty much no alterations from its former glory. So you find yourself following blizzards older quest/zone structures. As in - Go here/there - Collect this/that - and so on. At first it actually felt like a nice change in pace. Maybe because you didn't have to think so much. But after a while became quite tedious and repetitive. I found myself skipping quest text, which I hate doing, and flying through quests thoughtlessly. Robotic. Which I can't say I enjoyed.

** The reason I say 'while leveling' is because I know for a fact Outland still has so, so much to offer. Though you don't get to see this with the way quests rush you through the continent, and zones only getting half uncovered etc. It just gets lost in the system. At the same time yes, you can spend more time in them. But when leveling like I say, that isn't your main priority. So I know in myself that it is definitely worth re-visiting when I can not worry about progressing through the zones and doing quests, but be able to spend more time to appreciate what it has to display.

A Shot From Stormwind

A main point as well is in the new leveling structure. You feel more involved. Yes it may be more Linear than before. But I prefer that, especially if it means more quality in the quests. As in they become more interactive and give you a feeling that your actions are really meaningful. Not to mention that you become more intertwined with the story than ever before!

So that's my review on the experience so far! I could go on and on. Though I think I have covered the most important parts. So don't forget to re-visit Outland one day! Hoping Northrend will bring a breath of fresh wind. Now onto something else..

My Birthday!

So part of the reason why I have been distant as of late is because it was my Birthday last weekend. Though to make up for it, take a look at this:

MY BIRTHDAY CAKE!

How EPIC is that?!

Yes I was just as surprised when I was presented with this. Seriously. Seeing my World of Warcraft character and alter-ego, ON MY CAKE! (Caps necessary). I quote - 'Best Cake Ever'. Words cannot describe.

Also, I now have an iPhone! Is my life complete now? Which also lead me to receive my 'Core Hound Pup' companion from the In-Game mail, after downloading the Battle.net Authenticator (Which I recommend you all do)

Core Hound Pup

New Features:

• Forum - Which can be found Here
• Contact Page
• Cataclysm Journal Page
• New Poll - vote!

Now for what is to come in the near future:

• Blogroll
• Contests (One coming up very soon)
• About me
• Gallery (Including Videos)
• Feedback Page
• My own site
• FanFiction
• The Clan. The Guild...

So watch out, I have big things in store for the blog and my valuable readers! Keep pinned!

Coming to the end of what I know has been a long post, which I feel has been very necessary! I want to again thank every one of my readers who really make all this worthwhile. It is you guys that really push me and motivate me to put my posts out there! Thanks from myself and Feignheart!

Look out for the next edition of 'Cataclysm Journals', where Northrend is on the agenda!

Until then..

Thanks for reading!

Keep Posted - Follow/Comment/Subscribe

Jamin

(P.S. Don't forget to check out the new forum - Here!)

A New Wind