The Story of the Battle of Dazar'alor Raid - Lore Collaboration with Nobbel87

Live Posted 2019/01/27 at 3:32 PM by perculia

Battle of Dazar'alor

Champions

Grong

Jaina

Rastakhan Cinematic AnalysisWho Won the Battle of Dazar'alor?Siege of Dazar'alor Cinematic AnalysisThe Alliance's Fake Assault and Blademaster Telaamon

“An assault on the city of Dazar’alor will destablize the Horde’s relations with the Zandalari. Our goal is to draw them north into Nazmir. We’ll hit them with guerilla tactics and rile up the blood trolls.”
“My people will form strike teams to provide support, and high Tinker Mekkatorque’s engineers will assemble a few surprises for the Horde.”
“The tidesages will use the Abyssal Scepter to conceal our true intentions beneath a thick layer of mist. Meanwhile, the fleet will invade Dazar’alor from the south.”
“I won’t lie. Not everyone will be coming back from this. We need the Horde to believe the attack is real. Sacrifices will be unavoidable...but if we are succesful, we can bring this whole war to an end in a matter of weeks. ”

“Alliance forces are marching through Nazmir. They have taken the blood gate!”
“They mean to establish a staging ground for an attack on Zuldazar. Our scouts have reported a large fleet assembling off the coast.”
“We must retake our territory and destroy this fleet.”
“Our forces have come to know the wilds of Nazmir. We can rout the Alliance, so long as we fight together with the Zandalari.”
“Agreed. We must strike as one on all fronts. Talanji, lend your aid at the blood gate while we prepare our armies.” 
“I will rally the Horde’s forces. This is our change to end this war...on our terms.”
“Champion, spread word of our counterattack and meet me at the Blood Gate.”

The events described above take place in the Patch 8.1 Alliance War Campaign. In this campaign, you will also see the Alliance plant bombs on the Zandalari navy and break into the Treasury to reclaim the Abyssal Scepter. The War Campaign is needed for several Allied Races:

At the end of the 8.0 War Campaign, you will receive the achievement Ready for War;
Ready for War is a requirement for both the Battle for Azeroth Pathfinder, Part One achievement, and part of the criteria to unlock the Dark Iron Dwarf Allied Race.

At the end of the 8.1 War Campaign, you will receive the achievement Tides of Vengeance;

Tides of Vengeance is part of the criteria to unlock the Kul Tiran Human Allied Race.

The Alliance War Campaign also gives reputation with the 7th Legion Faction. Hitting Exalted is required to unlock the Dark Iron Dwarf Allied Race.

The Horde's Response in Nazmir

“This be giving me a bad feeling, why bring the fog when there be no ships to hide?”
 “It doesn’t make sense. Unless dey wanted us to be in Nazmir...” 
“They have deceived us! My father stands alone to defend the city.”
 “Those Alliance snakes.”
 “Our home is under siege. Return to Zuldazar at once!”

The events described above take place in the Patch 8.1 Horde War Campaign. In this campaign, you will also see the Horde steal the Abyssal Scepter, find Derek Proudmoore's body, and help Lady Ashvane escape from the Tol Dagor prison. The War Campaign is needed for several Allied Races:

At the end of the 8.0 War Campaign, you will receive the achievement Ready for War;
Ready for War is a requirement for both the Battle for Azeroth Pathfinder, Part One achievement, and part of the criteria to unlock the Mag'har Orc Allied Race.

At the end of the 8.1 War Campaign, you will receive the achievement Tides of Vengeance;

Tides of Vengeance is part of the criteria to unlock the Zandalari Troll Allied Race.

The Horde War Campaign also gives reputation with the Honorbound Faction. Hitting Exalted is required to unlock the Mag'har Orc Allied Race.

Siege of Dazar'alor Cinematic

We've analyzed this cinematic in our Siege of Dazar'alor Cinematic Analysis post. In this post, we look at visual similarities to Warbringers: Jaina and how the cinematic both shows how powerful Mekkatorque and Jaina are...while hinting at their weaknesses.

This cinematic is also payoff for the very end of the 8.0 Alliance War Campaign, which most players completed back in September. At the finale of the 8.0 Alliance War Campaign, on the Strike on Zuldazar chapter, the Alliance adventurers plant Remote-Detonation Bombs at the Zandalari ships on the quests Sabotaging the Pa'ku (for the ships stationed at the Isle of Fangs) and Right Beneath Their Nose (for the ships stationed at Warport Rastari). According to Kelsey Steelspark, key member of the Gnomeregan Covert Ops, these bombs are the latest and most effective inventions of current gnomish technology.

Siege of Dazar'alor / Defense of Dazar'alorChampion of the Light - Alliance

Ra’wani Kanae: “You trespass upon sacred ground, outsiders. You will not defile Zuldazar with your filth!”
“A troll paladin? Now I’ve seen it all. Protest all you want, but you seem to be outnumbered.” 
“De Light of de loa is all de strength I need. Face me!”

“Light...Guide me to the other side.”

“All forces advance! Establish a perimeter. I don’t want any surprises.” “We have little time before the Horde return to the city. Keep moving!”
Azerite war machine charges through the baracades and decimates zandalari.
“Vanguard, with me! Press forward”
Rastakhan: “Soldiers, defend our sacred city! Halt the enemy advance! Zandalar forever!”

Ra'wani Kanae's encounter is mechanically the same between Alliance and Horde, except the boss and adds' names are different. Learn more in the Champion of the Light strategy guide.

Notable loot from the Champion of the Light encounter includes Dawnbreaker and Sunburst Crest, weapons perfect for Zandalari Paladin transmog.

Throughout these early bosses, we will see all four Battle for Azeroth Allied Races represented. First up is Ra’wani representing the Zandalari Trolls. This race will unlock in Patch 8.1.5 for the Horde, and will require the following:

Zandalari Empire: Exalted with Zandalari Empire may take several weeks to obtain, as you can only earn a limited amount of reputation per time with World Quests and Emissaries. Reference the Zandalari Empire Reputation Guide for details on how to obtain reputation.
Tides of Vengeance: You will also need to finish the War Campaign--both the 8.0 and 8.1 components.
Zandalar Forever!: You must complete all major lore storylines in Zuldazar, through The Final Seal.

Zandalari Paladins were not originally part of the Allied Race data, but were confirmed at BlizzCon 2018! They have a special Paladin Mount - the Crusader's Direhorn.

Jadefire Masters - Alliance

“I’ll hold the zandalari back. Heroes, you deal with this pair of horde thugs!”
 Anathos: “Well, well, the Alliance’s greatest heroes... stumbling their way into the heart of the troll empire. I fear we can let them proceed no further.”
Ma’ra (Maghar): “On my homeworld, I leveled countless Lightbound foes. I have been eager to do the same to these rivals of the Horde.”
“Then let us teach them a lesson, shall we?”

“Your Alliance...will be broken...”
“Be on your guard champions. I sense... a rising darkness.”

The Jadefire Masters encounter is a single phase encounter in which the raid faces up against two bosses simultaneously, a Mage and a Monk. Good co-ordination and preparation are required to deal with their powerful Team Attacks that occur at set points throughout the fight. Learn more in the Jadefire Masters strategy guide by FatbossTV.

Notable transmog loot from Jadefire Masters includes the Phoenixfire Staff, a weapon with a Pandaria Monk theme.

In this fight, we are introduced to another Allied Race in Battle for Azeroth--the Mag'har Orcs. This Horde race was added at the start of Battle for Azeroth. To unlock this race, you must complete the following:

Ready for War requires players to complete the Horde War Campaign, which will take several weeks to complete. Learn how to complete each step in our War Campaign Guide.
Exalted with The Honorbound is a Horde only reputation. It can be attained mostly while completing the campaign step, while the rest of the reputation can be obtained from The Honorbound World Quests, Warfront contributions, and Emissary on the continent of Kul Tiras.

As the Mag'har Orcs represent the diverse clans of AU Draenor, they come with three Heritage Armor tints: Mag'har Orc Heritage Armor (Warsong Recolor), Mag'har Orc Heritage Armor (Blackrock Recolor), Mag'har Orc Heritage Armor (Frostwolf Recolor).

Ma'ra Grimfang references the Lightbound in her dialogue. In the Mag'har Orc Recruitment Scenario, we return to AU Draenor only to discover that the Draenei have turned fanatical, worshipping the Tyranny of the Light with Y'rel as the High Exarch. The Lightbound are attacking any Mag'har who will not convert, and the scenario ends with AU Grommash sacrificing himself to have the remaining Mag'har escape to Azeroth. This scenario shows that all realities share parallels, as the story of Draenor ended with one side butchering the other, and that the Light may not be benevolent, as we've previously already seen with Xe'ra in 7.3.

Bwonsamdi's Assistance

“It seems the banshee queen isn’t the only one with ghouls in her arsenal.”
 “No surprise in her choice of allies. The Zandalari deserve their fate.”

“Alliance forces have come ashore in the harbor. They’re spreading throughout Zuldazar like a plague.”
“We must reach the pyramid before they do! My father is defending it with only a handful of guards.”
“We are going to do everything we can, princess! Starting by clearing these Dark Irons out of the way.”

Rastakhan is quite rude to Bwonsamdi in this cinematic, and we speculate if that led Bwonsamdi to overwhelm and eventually lead Rastakhan to defeat in our Rastakhan cinematic analysis.

The presence of Bwonsamdi can be felt throughout Season 2 Battle for Azeroth.

The new Mythic+ affix, Reaping, sees Bwonsamdi resurrect all the fallen enemies periodically.
The armor sets from Dazar'alor are not gilded and themed after the Zandalari, but rather reflect the bones and skeletons of Bwonsamdi.

Champion of the Light - Horde

“Retreat while you can Horde.”

“No smoldering dwarf will prevent us from reaching the King.”

Frida Ironbellows's encounter is mechanically the same between Alliance and Horde, except the boss and adds' names are different. Learn more in the Champion of the Light strategy guide.

Can I Get a Hek Hek Hek Yeah? is the special achievement for Glory of the Dazar'alor Raider.

The Dark Iron Dwarves were added as an Allied Race at the start of Battle for Azeroth. Unlock them by completing the following:

Ready for War requires players to complete the Alliance War Campaign, which will take several weeks to complete. Learn how to complete each step in our War Campaign Guide.
Exalted with 7th Legion is a Alliance only reputation. It can be attained mostly while completing the campaign step, while the rest of the reputation can be obtained from 7th Legion World Quests, Warfront turn-ins, and Emissary on the continent of Zandalar.

Dark Iron Paladins have a special mount, the Darkforge Ram.

Grong the Jungle Lord

“Attention horde brutes. This primitive pyramid is now Alliance property. To demonstrate our capabilities we prepared a little...or shall I say...BIG surprise for you! You don’t have any hope of overcoming gnomish inovation. I advice you to surrender or to collect a whole lot of bananas.”

“Ohhhhh, what we got here now? Dis big fella look like him could be useful, eh?”
“Don’t ya be lazy now, ape mon! Get up! Show them invaders dat dey shouldn’t be messin’ wit ol’ Bwonsamdi.”
“Rastakhan’s magic has turned our own weapon against us!”
“He was a noble fellow who deserved better. Heroes, do what you have to but please be merciful.”

“Grah! We need these beasts knocked out of the air. Where is Mekkatorque with that new toy of his?”
 “Did someone call for an air strike?”
“Our incursion point is up ahead. Clear a path to the waterfall.”

“You have the coordinates high tinker. Fire when ready.” 
“Stand back heroes. I’ll get you inside the pyramid.”
“Breach succesful! I’ll stay out here and keep the skies clear.”

Grong is a single phase patchwerk style encounter which requires the raid to manage the bosses rage bar. If the raid mismanages this rage, the boss will get too angry and the raid will suffer extreme Tantrum damage which will likely wipe them! Learn more in the Grong strategy guide by FatbossTV. The fights are mechanically identical, except all the abilities have different names and the Alliance encounter abilities deal Shadow damage while the Horde encounter abilities deal Nature damage.

Alliance players encounter Grong from the Secret Weapon chapter of the 8.1 War Campaign, in which he uses the Embiggifier to convert his intelligence to strength in order to fight the Horde. After he is defeated by the Horde, Bwonsamdi resurrects him, leading to the Alliance version of the encounter.

Notable transmog loot from the Grong encounter includes Cursed Monkey Palm and Bonelash Paw, items with a monkey theme.

Barrel of Monkeys is the special achievement for Glory of the Dazar'alor Raider.

Empire's Fall / Death's BargainOpulence

“What are you DOING?! Don’t hurt it!”

“You monsters! How could you destroy something so glorious?! It’s true what Sylvanas says. You Alliance goons aint got no souls!” 
“We’re entering the Heart of Dazar’alor. Expect fierce resistance from the Zandalari. It would be wise to set some traps to cover our flank. Keep going – I’ll catch up.”

Opulence is a two phase encounter in which the raid must split in two groups to defeat two guardians and steal some powerful Crown Jewels, before meeting up again to take down Opulence itself! Learn more in the Opulence strategy guide by FatbossTV.

Alliance players will remember Opulence from the Abyssal Scepter step of the 8.1 War Campaign, in which Master Mathias Shaw and Flynn Fairwind infiltrated the Zandalari Treasurey to take back the Abyssal Scepter. Jaina and Magister Umbric combine the powers of arcane and void to create a portal to the Treasury. Opulence is not happy we have stolen the scepter.

Praise the Sunflower is the special achievement for Glory of the Dazar'alor Raider.

Opulence has several notable items themed after treasure and gold:

Goblet of Glittering Favor and Greed's Folly are bejeweled weapons for transmog.
There are also jeweled crowns, one for each armor type (Crown of the Seducer, Crown of A'akul's Dark Reign, Electrified Crown of Rahu'ai, Crown of A'akul's Dark Reign) that provide special buffs from gems.
Boots of the Gilded Path is an item that increases movement speed by 30% for 6 sec after looting gold.

Conclave of the Chosen

“You cannot stand against the loa!”

Conclave of the Chosen is a single phase encounter in which the raid will face against two aspect of the loa bosses. As one aspect falls, it is replaced by another until all four aspects have been defeated. The Loa frequently help the aspects throughout the encounter by using a powerful wrath spell! Learn more in the Conclave of the Chosen strategy guide by FatbossTV.

More details on each Loa:

Pa'ku is a pterrordax loa, known as the Master of Winds. Horde players are familiar with Pa'ku as a loa of Zandalar, with a key role in the Zuldazar questline. If players choose Pa'ku on the quest Picking a Side, they can interact with Totem of Pa'ku which are needed for the Paku'ai achievement.
Gonk, a raptor, is the Loa of the Hunt and the Loa who taught the Zandalari and Darkspear how to be Druids. Gonk helped defend Zandalar in the Zuldazar questline. Players that side with Gonk can earn the Raptari Rider achievement and interact with Totem of Gonk which provide increased movement speed and reduced fall damage.
Akunda, a thunder lizard, is the loa of storms and fresh beginnings. Akunda's shrine is in Vol'dun and all followers are cleansed of their upsetting memories, taking the name of Akunda and dedicating themselves to good deeds. The Akunda's Shocksplitter weapon resembles Akunda, with lightning effects paying tribute to the storm. Players that quest and earn reputation in Vol'dun can earn Akunda's Firesticks and Words of Akunda.
Kimbul is the Loa of Tigers and his shrine is in Vol'dun. In the past, Kimbul was attacked by the Naga, led by Summoner Mepjila, who cursed Kimbul's followers with eternal torment in the Shadowlands. In Battle for Azeroth, you help free Kimbul's followers and slay Mepjila. In return, you are granted the Ring of Tides, an item Kimbul took as a sign of victory in his initial clash with the naga. The Kimbul's Razor Claw drop references the cat-like attacks of Kimbul.
Krag'wa the Huge, the frog loa, plays a large role in the Nazmir storyline, helping Talanji and the players fight back the Blood Trolls. In addition to the battle pet which drops from the raid, players can spend to acquire a mount that resembles Krag'wa--the Green Marsh Hopper.
Bwonsamdi, present on Mythic difficulty, is the loa of death. Bwonsamdi mainly has control of the souls of trolls that pledge allegiance to him, however, Bwonsamdi is capable of performing a ritual of binding with someone. Once the ritual is complete, any souls that came from creatures killed by the person will go to Bwonsamdi's care. Check out our detailed guide to the Lore of Bwonsamdi to learn about his interactions with Vol'jin, deal with Rastakhan, and role in Patch 8.1.

Notable loot from the Conclave of the Chosen includes Crest of Pa'ku, which has an equip effect referencing the Totem of Pa'ku. There are also three battle pets from Conclave of the Chosen: Child of Pa'ku and Thunder Lizard Runt from all difficulties, and Spawn of Krag'wa from Mythic difficulty only.

Jadefire Masters - Horde

“The throne room lies ahead.”
“We have struck a decisive blow against the Zandalari. Let us hope their king chooses to surrender and spare his people further harm.”

“Your advance ends here Horde filth. You will answer for your crimes against Kul Tiras.”
“In the Twisting Nether, I slew countless demons of the Legion. This motley crew of troll sympathizers poses little threat.”

The Jadefire Masters encounter is a single phase encounter in which the raid faces up against two bosses simultaneously, a Mage and a Monk. Good co-ordination and preparation are required to deal with their powerful Team Attacks that occur at set points throughout the fight. Learn more in the Jadefire Masters strategy guide by FatbossTV.

Notable transmog loot from Jadefire Masters includes the Phoenixfire Staff, a weapon with a Pandaria Monk theme.

Here we have our look at the fourth Allied Race, the Kul Tiran Humans. It's also notable that Manceroy Flamefist is a mage, as that class was not first planned for the Kul Tiras race at BlizzCon. This race is unlocked in Patch 8.1.5 for the Alliance, and requires the following:

Proudmoore Admiralty: Exalted with Proudmoore Admiralty may take several weeks to obtain, as you can only earn a limited amount of reputation per time with World Quests and Emissaries. Reference the Proudmoore Admiralty Reputation Guide for details on how to obtain reputation.
Tides of Vengeance: You will also need to finish the War Campaign--both the 8.0 and 8.1 components. The Battle of Dazar'alor raid is not required.
A Nation United: Complete the major storylines in Kul Tiras zones -- Loremaster of Kul Tiras, The Pride of Kul Tiras, and A Nation United.

It does seem a bit odd that the Alliance didn't plan for an outcome in which Rastakhan defended his empire and died, which we've examined in more detail in Who Won the Battle of Dazar'alor and Why Did the Alliance Attack?. Anduin is a bit naive and inexperienced. Anduin wanted to drive a wedge between the Zandalari and the Horde, which could have been accomplished by simply destroying their navy. Jaina wanted surrender or death from Rastakhan.

King Rastakhan

“You do not face me alone, invaders! You stand before de finest defenders of Zuldazar!”

“Bwonsamdi! De Alliance invaders have struck down our people! Aid me!”
“Watcha be raisin’ such a fuss about, ya majesty? Ol’Bwonsamdi ain’t gonna let no outsiders take your throne!”

“Bwonsamdi! You are my loa! Honor our bargain and strike down dese attackers!”
“Ya be mighty demandin’, Rastakhan! I gonna give ya da power ya seek...but ya better watch your tone.”

“Why are dese invaders still resisting? You should have dealt with them by now, Bwonsamdi!”
“Ya been king a long time, Rastakhan. Maybe...too long. If ya can’t be gettin’ da job done, perhaps dat pretty daughter of yours can. Hehehehe”

“Dis power...dis death... it is a curse, not a blessing! Oh, daughter...what have I done?!”

“My...daughter...”
“Rastakhan chose his fate when he sided with the Horde.” “We can savor our victory back in Boralus. It’s time to get our people out of here.” “Everyone, head to the ships”

King Rastakhan is a four phase encounter in which the raid will have to fight against the King and his bodyguards during phase one. Once the bodyguards are defeated, Bwonsamdi joins the fray and players must not only combat the dangerous plagues from King Rastakhan, but also the deathly shadow magics from Bwonsamdi for phase two and three. Phase four has the raid engaging King Rastakhan alone, as he unleashes devastating empowered abilities! Learn more in the King Rastakhan strategy guide by FatbossTV.

King Rastakhan is the ruler of the Zandalari Empire. However Prophet Zul sees Rastakhan as a weak and soft king, planning a rebellion in the Zuldazar questline. Losing the protection of the Loa of Kings made Rastakhan start to age fast, and after a Blood Troll attack directly onto Dazar'alor, Rastakhan saw himself forced to make a deal with Bwonsamdi: Rastakhan asked for Bwonsamdi to become his loa and elevate him above all other loa in Zandalar, in exchange for having his entire bloodline serve him in life and death, forever. You can learn more about this character in the Lore of King Rastakhan Article.

De Lurker Be'loa is the special achievement for We Got Spirit, How About You?.

Notable loot from the Rastakhan encounter includes Seal of the Zandalari Empire which forms a 2pc set with Loa Exultant's Shroud, Last Fang of Rezan as King Rastakhan's weapon for transmog, and the enchanting recipe to craft Enchanted Tiki Mask.

We wrote an in-depth analysis of the Rastakhan Cinematic, highlighting interesting parallels between this cinematic and previous ones involving Bwonsamdi. We also discuss Bwonsamdi's partnership with Rastakhan, and how the loa of death may have wanted Rastakhan to fall so Talanji, a more capable leader, was in charge. Read our analysis here!

Might of the Alliance / Victory or DeathHigh Tinker Mekkatorque

“I’ll do my best to tell you what happened. It started when they saw their king fall... The Horde hoped to pin us between their pursuing champions and the forces holding the docks. But they didn’t count on the High Tinker! He gave us help from the skies while gnome forces aided us on the ground...until Gallywix showed up.”
“Let’s go, tinkerboy!”

“The high tinker fought bravely. But in the end...it wasn’t enough. Thank the tides he had one last trick up his sleeve to carry him to safety!”
“What the...? Okay, I wanna know two things... First, how could you let that pipsqueak get away? And second...WHY DON’T I HAVE AN ESCAPE POD?”
“Enough! That’s one Alliance hero down. But I want your blades soaked in Proudmoore blood. Move!”

“The 7th Legion fought bravely to get us out of there.”
“Hold this ground, 7th Legion! We need to get our ships away!” 
“Leaving so soon, Shaw? What a pity. I’ve got an arrow with your name carved into it.”
“We’ll cross paths again, Blightcaller. I’ll see you dead or in chains before this war ends, I promise you.”

High Tinker Mekkatorque is a three phase encounter in which the raid must use their excellent social skills to talk to one another and share key information needed to shut down the High Tinker's Spark Bot companions! Learn more in the High Tinker Mekkatorque strategy guide by FatbossTV.

Gelbin Mekkatorque, the King of the Gnomes, has created many clever inventions over the years including the Gyromatic Micro-Adjuster, Mechanostriders, Dwarven Seige Engines, and the subterranean railway system linking Stormwind and Ironforge called the Deeprun Tram. Learn more about his inventions, and appearances in previous expansions, in the Lore of Gelbin Mekkatorque Article.

I Got Next! is the special achievement for Glory of the Dazar'alor Raider.

Notable loot from the High Tinker Mekkatorque includes:

G.M.O.D., Gallywix's mount that looks flashy but is prone to breaking down
Servo-Claw Smasher and Twin-Pipe Buster Cannon, perfect for Gnomish transmog
High Tinker's Cape, which provides an Engineering bonus
Mech-Jockey Grips, which increases speed while mounted in an Engineering mount by 20%

Stormwall Blockade

“The Horde troops were relentless...bloodthirsty. But our Kul Tiran forces weren’t backing down!’
“I need this blockade broken and these docks secured!” 
“You should’ve never challenged the might of Kul Tiras, Horde scum!”
 “We’re not here to taunt them. Focus on the ritual! We must ensure all our people make it out.”
“Oh, we will...Doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy myself while doing it.” 
“Put a stop to whatever ritual those Kul Tirans are attempting. And quell their blathering while you’re at it!”

Stormwall Blockade is the eighth boss in Battle of Dazar'alor and the second Horde Story Encounter. Learn more in the Stormwall Blockade strategy guide by FatbossTV.

The Alliance zone Stormsong Valley examines the power of the Tidesages and their connection to the sea--for better or worse.

De Lurker Be'loa, a reference to The Lurker Below, is the special achievement for Glory of the Dazar'alor Raider.

A notable transmog item from the Stormwall Blockade is Siren's Song, resembling a magical and nautical scepter.

Jaina Proudmoore

“That’s when the troll princess returned with blood in her eyes.”
“No! Dose butchers are getting away!”

"By de loa...what has happened here?"
"De alliance invaded our city and killed our king. De wounded need my aid. Captain, take deze Horde champions and pursue de murderers! Bring me de head of Jaina Proudmoore!"
"It will be so, princess! Heroes come aboard.”

“Lord Admiral Proudmoore was as gallant as they come! She offered the Horde every chance to turn back.”

“All hands on deck! Time to make the daughter of de sea pay for trespassing in our waters!’
“Consider this your only warning. Turn your vessel back to port and look after your dead... or you will soon join them.”
“I have heard of you, Jaina Proudmoore. De little girl who betrayer her father and lost her brother to war. Failure is your family legacy.”
“If you know so much about me, captain, then you would have been wise to run while you still hand the chance.”
“You will pay for your crimes! All hands, attack!"

“When it looked like the Horde might get the upper hand, the Lord Admiral turned the tables!”
“Ha! Horde vessels on de horizon! You have nowhere left to run ice witch.”
“You really think I’ve been running, captain?”
“Impossible!” 
“I lured you into open waters. Because out here, you have no hope of escape.”

Lady Jaina Proudmoore is a three-phase fight. Her best-known mechanic is entering Ice Block for 20 seconds when the raid pops Bloodlust / Heroism, which wastes part of the cooldown but also gives the raid time to recover on damage. Learn more in the Lady Jaina Proudmoore strategy guide by FatbossTV.

Jaina Proudmoore is the current Lord Admiral of Kul Tiras, former leader of the Kirin Tor, and former ruler of the port city of Theramore. In Battle for Azeroth, she seeks reconciliation with her mother and the nation of Kul Tiras, culminating in the The Pride of Kul Tiras storyline. Learn more about Jaina's story, starting from her first appearance in Warcraft III, in our Lore of Jaina Proudmoore Article.

Snow Fun Allowed is the special achievement for Glory of the Dazar'alor Raider.

Jaina Proudmoore has many notable drops and rewards:

Fogbreaker, Light of the Sea: Lessens the effects of Howling Winds while battling Lady Jaina Proudmoore.
Lord Admiral's Signet and Daelin Proudmoore's Saber, are part of a two piece set, Keepsakes of the Resolute Commandant. Your autoattacks are tinged with the rime of the high seas, dealing 220 Frost damage to your target and reducing their movement speed by 10% for 4 sec. The sword is also notable for Kul Tiras transmog.
Glacial Tidestorm is a mount drop on Mythic difficulty. "Though she commands a variety of magical powers, Jaina has always been most proficient at summoning powerful elementals of water and ice."
Defeat Lady Jaina Proudmoore in Battle of Dazar'alor on Mythic difficulty to receive the title.
The first 100 Alliance guilds to defeat Mythic Jaina receive the title.
The first 100 Horde guilds to defeat Mythic Jaina receive the title.

Aftermath for the Alliance

“My king, the attack on Zuldazar was a resounding success.”
“The Horde is losing on all fronts. The Alliance should achieve victory in a matter of weeks.”
“Yes, but at what cost? So many fallen....including Mekkatorque, whose life hangs by a thread. And I fear the death of Rastakhan will ignite a fire in the hearts of the Zandalari.”
“He was a casualty of war, Anduin. A king must be willing to sacrifice himself for his people without doubt or hesitation.”
“I know that, Genn....as well as anyone. But our mission was to drive a wedge between the Zandalari and the Horde. Instead, we may have strengthened their bond.”
“More than half the Zandalari vessels were destroyed in the initial strike, and the Horde fleet is in disarray. Their remaining ships cannot hope to stand agains the Kul Tiran navy.”
“The Horde has never been more vulnerable. We should strike hard...before Sylvanas hatches another vile scheme.”
“Press the attack as the Zandalari mourn their fallen king? That would make us no better than the Banshee.”
“She’s the real problem here. I imagine she is already finding ways to turn this to her advantage.”
“We must continue the fight. But as we push toward victory, we must never lose sight of who we are and what we stand for.”

“Jaina, is there anything you can do for Mekkatorque?”
“I’m sorry. The mechanism preserving his body is unlike any magic I have encountered.”
“Our priests feel just as helpless. History will say we won a great victory in Zuldazar. Yet I find little cause for celebration.” 
“It was a costly battle...in many ways.”
“But enough of that. How are you faring? You held off the Horde’s finest warriors so our fleet could withdraw. You risked everything for the Alliance, Jaina.”
“Still recovering, but...I’ll be fine. You have enough on your mind without worrying about me.”
“It is good to have you back with us, Auntie. I missed you.” 
“So much transpired while I was away. Anduin...I’ve heard rumors about an old friend of mine – Calia Menethil. What happened in Arathi?”
“There is much to explain. Some I still don’t fully understand...but I’ll tell you what I know.”
 “Thank you. Let’s find somewhere quiet to talk.”

Before the Storm

In our article analyzing the outcome of Dazar'alor, we argue that the Alliance gained some ground by destroying the Zandalari navy, but their plan to invade the city was poorly thought-out and with unclear benefits. They've ended the battle with severe losses and the bond between the Zandalari and the Horde strengthened.

Also in Patch 8.1.5, the Kul Tiran race formally partners with the Alliance and they finally become a playable Allied Race, complete with Drust-themed Druid forms and new body types for Humans.

In one of our past lore collaborations with Nobbel87, we covered Before the Storm. Check out our article if you'd like to learn more about the novel and the story of Calia Menethil!

The Patch 8.1.5 War Campaign also hints that there's more to come for Calia Menethil in the future, as Jaina learns of the fate of her brother Derek Proudmoore, who is in a similar situation. The upcoming patch also adds a new questline featuring Xal'atath--if the Old Gods are involved, then both the Alliance and Horde may end up being the losers in this war.

Aftermath for the Horde

“Thank you for coming champion. Zuldazar is still reeling from the Alliance attack. My people’s faith has been shaken...and so has my own.”
“I too know the pain of losing a father. If there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate to ask.”
“You have seen firsthand the treachery of the Alliance. Let your grief be sated by vengeance against them.”
“This is not the time to speak of revenge, Blightcaller!”
“Enough! The warchief has arrived.”

“My condolences on your loss, princess. Excuse me...queen Talanji.”
“Titles mean little to me now. I must know...with de Zandalari navy in ruins, does de Horde intend to abandon us?”
“We do not turn our back on our allies, Talanji. The war campaign has taken an unfortunate turn, to be certain...but our cause is not lost.”
“My queen...reports are coming in from all outposts. The Alliance is tightening its grip, Victory is within their grasp.”
 “Perhaps we can open negotiations—“ “The Alliance slays the leader of the Zandalari, and you speak of negotiations? No. This war will not end until we stand victorious. Until the Little Lion kneels before my throne.”
“Meet me aboard the Banshee’s Wail. I have a plan to ensure the Proudmoore family pays dearly for Rastakhan’s death.”

“Sylvanas! What reason could you possibly have for this madness?!”
“Derek Proudmoore was a hero to the Kul Tirans. They are sure to stage a rescue attempt when they learn of his fate. And once his mind has been properly conditioned, we will allow the Proudmoores to recover their long-lost prince...So he can slaughter them in their sleep. ”
“This is too far! How many times must we forsake our honor?”
“There can be only victory or death for us, Baine. And death is mine to master.”
Valkyr resurrects Derek. Derek groans as he’s being revived.
“What...what is this? Why am I...What have you done to me?!”
“Why Lord Proudmoore, I’ve given you a chance to reunite with your family. You should be grateful”

On the 8.1.5 PTR, the story continues with Baine and Derek (spoiler warning!) This War Campaign features more player choice through questing, which was first introduced on a large scale in the Saurfang 8.1 quests. Here, the choices made in 8.1 will impact the dialogue options you get in the Horde Campaign.

Also following the events of Dazar'alor, Talanji will be crowned queen and agree to partner with the Horde, which introduces the Zandalari Troll Allied Race. This race has amazing dinosaur-themed Druid forms, distinctive racials, and golden customization options.

We've datamined the Zandalari Recruitment Scenario (spoilers) which has an interesting exchange between Bwonsamdi and Talanji, as well as Talanji standing up to Sylvanas.

In our article analyzing the outcome of Dazar'alor, we argue that while the Zandalari may have suffered the largest short-term losses, they are in a stronger position for the long-term with Talanji now in charge and Bwonsamdi supporting her rule...while the Alliance is still stymied on how to handle Sylvanas.

Before the Storm

Comment by gcsmithWait... how is the Scepter still in Nazmir to destroy? After using it Pike says he's taking it back to Stormsong Valley.Comment by EruanneYeah, I also thought I saw it...

MAybe they decided it was oto powerful for the alliance to keep...

He even said he took it back to the far reaches? or something like that?Comment by etheldaldWait... how is the Scepter still in Nazmir to destroy? After using it Pike says he's taking it back to Stormsong Valley.Comment by KarigalWait... how is the Scepter still in Nazmir to destroy? After using it Pike says he's taking it back to Stormsong Valley.Comment by RobNajjarI don't get why blizzard went to great lengths to not just let the alliance have a win,like they went out of their way to make the war of the thorns a horde win and not have the SoL be a total horde loss, but whatever

Wait... how is the Scepter still in Nazmir to destroy? After using it Pike says he's taking it back to Stormsong Valley.Comment by ExxorD“Why Lord Proudmoore, I’ve given you a chance to reunite with your family. You should be grateful”

Oh? I didn't know I was logging in to play my Horde monk every day to play the "evil" faction. I spit on Sylvanas, I spit on her followers. I spit on those who dare continue to let such atrocities happen. Nathanos is a good one to talk when the Alliance is "spreading through the city like a PLAGUE" when Horde forces bomb and plague Darkshore every time they get the chance to take it back from the Alliance. They destroy far more than they take. The Alliance has to add more to compensate the losses.

Playing as the Horde doesn't feel like the "Horde" anymore. It feels like I'm being forced to bend my knee to a power-hungry tyrant who has such thick plot armor that can easily wipe the floor with any Champion of Azeroth, whether they be Alliance, or Horde. Sylvanas will be the downfall of Azeroth, not us.Comment by CronoLinkPlaying as the Horde doesn't feel like the "Horde" anymoreComment by ArkeranPlaying as the Horde doesn't feel like the "Horde" anymoreComment by ElyseonOh look, the Horde being honorless trash again. What a surprise. And look, throwing their lot in with the cannibals who sacrifice their own people and worship death gods. Arthas would be proud.