Orcs of the Red Blade

General => Contact Us => Topic started by: Sadok on September 08, 2015, 04:31:02 PM

Title: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on September 08, 2015, 04:31:02 PM

Orcs of the Red Blade celebrate their tenth anniversary on 8th October 2015. It's been one fel of a journey thus far -- from Durotar to Garadar, from the frigid wastes of Icecrown to the savage wilds of Tanaan, we have brought quality orc role-play to every corner of Azeroth. And hopefully, we have helped forge treasured memories for each and every person who has joined us along the way -- New Bloods and Red Guards; Chieftains and Matriarchs.

Did I say Matriarch? As part of the tenth anniversary celebrations, we've reached out and now welcome back our founder, Matriarch Akesha Redblade, after over five years away. The Red Blades have gone from strength to strength, with a band of seasoned veterans and eager newcomers alike on our new home of Argent Dawn. The future looks bright: later this month, we celebrate our seventeenth Kosh'harg Festival, a cross-realm celebration that promises to be the largest such event yet.

But this thread is not so much about the future as it is the past and even present. As part of our tenth anniversary celebrations, we invite both current and former members to weigh in and discuss their memories and recollections of everything Orcs of the Red Blade -- from their favourite RP characters to fondly-remembered events and storylines, this is the place to weigh in and reflect about what the guild and its people have meant to you over the years.

I will also be reaching out to inactive members via PM, and I hope we see some old but familiar faces contribute here also, even if it's just to say hi!

Let's get this thread rolling: whether or you've been here a week or a decade, I'd love to hear about your experiences with Orcs of the Red Blade. If you're stuck for ideas, here are a couple of suggestions:

- Your favourite OotRB characters, and the people behind them!
- Your favourite events, plots, storylines or even spontaneous encounters!
- Guilds and individuals outside of OotRB with a fond place in your heart!
- What OotRB meant to you over the years, and if you're no longer with us, what you're up to now!

This isn't just a thread meant to write your one-and-done speeches though -- it's a discussion thread, so feel free to comment, reply and chat in general about all things nostalgic!

Thanks in advance!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on September 08, 2015, 04:33:43 PM

And now, let me take off my officer hat for a moment and just talk as an ordinary guy, with some fond memories in mind.

What does Orcs of the Red Blade mean to me?

Admittedly, I’ve spent far too long with OotRB over the years since 2011, and Sadok as a character has almost monopolised my RP time as a result — alts have withered on the vine, outside initiatives abandoned due to lack of time. I don’t consider that a bad thing, however. Before I got my claws sunk into the tribe, I was a serial alt-o-holic who could never stick with an idea or a concept — I was with SGE, the Cult of Shadow, Three Hammers and even OotRB itself, on a pre-Sadok toon (Grimgash).

What encouraged me to stick with OotRB full-time wasn’t so much the concept, though it was interesting; nor the events, though they were engaging; or the globetrotting around Azeroth, though it certainly kept things fresh! OotRB’s strongest attribute, and one it retains to this day, is its sense of community — when I first joined, I was struck by the friendliness of the officer-team, the easy informality of its tribe gatherings, and the deliberate efforts taken to make me feel included and welcome.

When you scratch my back, I scratch yours — so it’s no surprise that I’ve tried to give back, and continue the spirit of the OotRB I fell in love with years ago. Some of the faces are still the same, many others have come and went, even the character models look a bit more spiffy — but we’re still a community, we still help one another out, and we still have fun at the end of the day.

Our finest hour as a community, at least in my opinion, was our move to Argent Dawn earlier this year. We were able to have a discussion as a guild about the benefits and drawbacks to realm migration, and I’m proud that so many people contributed — and that when the majority had spoken, we were able to keep virtually all of our core intact, including crowdfunding for those who couldn’t afford the move. Argent Dawn was a feast or famine proposition — if handled poorly, it could have split the guild apart, but we haven’t just survived but thrived on our new home.

I’ll continue to brainstorm plots and events, answer applications, interview applicants, tinker with the forums, produce video montages, chat around the campfire, train New Bloods, train Gosh’kar, train Thur’ruk, theorycraft initiatives, bump recruitment threads, patiently tolerate passive-aggressive whisper tirades, photoshop pizza trophies, sing spoof songs in officer Skype chats, and everything else that comes with the territory because I do take a sense of pride in what we’ve created together, and everything we’ve accomplished over the years.

A few shout-outs (I’ll have to stop somewhere, but I may post some more later):

To Kozgugore:
At this stage, with apologies to Akesha and everyone else, it’s not much of a stretch to say that Kozgugore is Orcs of the Red Blade. He’s been around forever, he’s left his stamp permanently on the guild and its community, and in the process, he’s become kind of a big deal.

Even before I joined OotRB, Kozgugore was considered an institution on DB — his name and Morgeth’s were the closest things to RP celebrities I could recall amongst the realm, and I’ll confess to being a little trepidatious on first contact. Especially since you forgot to answer my app for a whole seven days, you madman — I thought my character’s backstory was so horrible, you weren’t even dignifying it with a response!

Even if we may remember him as the Grumpy Chieftain, Koz is above all else just an all-around good guy, and it’s amazing he’s kept so well grounded and sane after all the madness he’s been exposed to.

To Morgeth:
The yin to Kozgugore’s yang for many a year, Morgeth completely deserves a tribute all to herself. An RP guild doesn’t rise and fall based on its events or plots, but on how fun and engaging it is — and Morgeth was a uniquely engaging character, and behind the scenes, a wonderfully supportive person.

There’s no such thing as a boring night around the campfire with Morgeth — she’s never short of a quip or a snarky comment, doesn’t let her nuanced and tragic backstory stop her from getting stuck in trees, and I’d be lying if I didn’t say I took heaps of inspiration from that when it came to turning the Sadok character into one of a facilitator.

Morgeth was the one who brought me into planning events and plots, months before I was even an officer. Her enthusiasm, can-do attitude and pure ability to turn chicken shit into chicken salad when the worst struck was a tremendous asset for OotRB (and the wider RP community when it came to her Truthteller markets and blind-dates), one I think we still miss to an extent.

To Mazguul:
Dunno if you’ll end up reading this, but I’ll still write it. You were the friendliest, bubbliest and wackiest character and person I can recall from all my years of RP. Even if you weren’t the dynamic personality organising events and initiatives, you were the bedrock of the guild’s culture — always there, always supportive, helping everyone feel welcome and involved.

In the end, you’re probably the closest thing to a mentor figure Sadok ever had — your approach to being Thur’ruk and a spiritual RPer in general is one I’ve tried to emulate wherever possible, and have formed part of the intangible background fabric of the guild and its lore. I’m not sure anyone else, but I’ve personally missed having you around these past three years, and we could certainly use two or three (or four) more Mazguuls.

To Karak:
The Karak character is my favourite of all time, actually — the textbook case in how to RP outside of the box while remaining completely consistent to the setting. Watching Karak shrug off all the mockery and all the tragedies while his mind slowly broke down was amazing stuff, and his ascension to Rrosh-tul and subsequent fall from grace for sticking to his principles was a tremendous character arc.

Of course, you’re hanging around nowadays on Siyah-gosh, but the energy and activity you’re able to bring are unmatched, and although I think two or three (or four) more Karaks would be overkill, having one around is just perfect.

To Rhonya:
As an officer, you’ve more than adequately filled the shoes of Mazguul as the tribe’s ‘mother’, and I think you continually understate your worth to OotRB. You’re basically the glue that keeps all of us hormonal males from tearing each apart — the voice of reason (sometimes), the anchor that’s always around for a serious chat or a wacky comment.

Personally speaking, your two characters Rhonya and Kyrazha have stepped up to become the two orcs Sadok feels closest with, and you’ve provided me with countless hours of entertainment and friendship. So thanks!

But above all, though you haven’t been around forever, your presence has become increasingly integral to making sure OotRB feels like a warm and welcoming place, and I think your red hair is rad!

Other assorted shout-outs, that I’ll name as important influences for Sadok over the years (I may come back and expand upon these):
- Vashnarz, for being a great friend and partner in crime for my early years;
- Drustai, for being a genius and inspiring me to get better at RP through making me look like an amateur by comparison;
- Groshnakk, for being an unabashed drunken Dane of awesomeness;
- Krogon, for always bringing passion and enthusiasm to the table;
- Keishara, for the completely unique and very tragic arc with Sadok over the years;
- Mozrogg, for showing you can be a kick-ass brute and the life of the party around the campfire;
- Orok/Thrugar/Kargnar, for showing that your history is not your destiny, and being the model of why we should give people second chances;
- Raxxok, for dem meaty thighs.

Some favourite moments from our many events over the years, provided without context:
- Grek’thar the Stew Shaman, deflecting everything with his shield, even in defiance of the laws of physics;
- Grim as the worst midwife ever, delivering Vashnarz’s baby (PUUUSH, PUUUUSH);
- Finally getting the RBG wolf as part of our guild team;
- Bad cop/even worse cop with Ildranor and Drustai, when Mazguul and Sadok were kidnapped;
- Finally getting the Grommash’ar throne shot for the trailer, after approximately seven lifetimes of outtakes;
- All those evenings in Mazguul’s cave, because everyone gathered there for no reason;
- All those laggy, horrible RP-PvP battles that were still worth attending;
- Trakmar and Sadok re-enacting the fate of Oberyn Martell;
- Morgeth taking the tribe aside to scheme against the Kor’kron, under the excuse that she was giving them cake;
- Intermittently Rickrolling people ICly for the giggles;
- Two of the most inappropriate typos ever: Krogon shitting his mouth; Vashnarz accusing Drogu of practising ‘negromancy’.
- Luk being able to mangle people’s names to their face, and getting away with it (Genital Bloodfart, etc);
- The sense of satisfaction that comes when people say 'thank you'. Maybe it was all worth it, after all?

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Regorn on September 08, 2015, 05:46:18 PM

I don't even play WoW but I still stick around for some reason.

Favourite OotRB characters!
- I liked Sadok, we were two completely different orcs with different way's to view things and we pretty much only agreed on a single thing: Fel bad. And the duels we had were fun too(not to talk about all the Yolk throwing).
- Krogon was this strong and serious character that was fun to make fun out of OOC

Favourite Stuff that happend!
- Regorn was so set in his way's that everything that happen he did this way... I am pretty sure I threw away a manticore claw(was it those things we were rewarded? I can't remember) once because reasons... I think someone picked it up.

- That one time Regorn took a bath... shortly after someone vomited on him... I think that was Regorns only bath while he was with the OotRB ever...

- YOLKS!

- Also that time when I crashed our ship in to the wetlands... To be fair, it was not like we were going to use it again.

- Regorn Funeral.

- That drinking night  + lier dice game with my Brother and guild when we joined OotRB shortly over the summer.

Guilds and individuals outside of OotRB!
- I liked The Thunderfury Clan as they were my first RP guild.

- Also shoutout to my Brother who was with us on Regorn funeral.

What OotRB meant to you over the years, and if you're no longer with us, what you're up to now!
Well, Currently I am busy at the University in Stockholm, studying Game Design. Doing fun stuff currently like HTML5 and Game based learning. On my spare time I play things like Smite,  bit of Endless Legend and Diablo 3. Mostly Smite tho, I like that game.
Dear lord, I have no life.

But seriously tho: I liked rollplaying with ya lot.

...by the way, what did you do with my staff?

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Azolg on September 08, 2015, 06:05:25 PM

Beginnings

Where to begin? I first came to the Tribe in January 2012 as my fond and tragic Orc huntress, Keishara Wildeye. My first "Proper RP" character, as the ones i'd had before that were rather disgraceful (For anyone who came from Steamwheedle Cartel, as a Human warrior. The Red Blades seemed like such an exotic and exciting concept at the time, and I was completely eager to get involved in it. Thirsting, perhaps.

Alas, at that time in my life I was also something of an alt-o-holic. With a crap job, working all the hours under the sun and usually working late into the evening i'd only get perhaps 1-2 evenings free a week to RP. And i'm ashamed to say I was fleeting in my RP. Sometimes i'd be here for weeks on end, RPing till 4am in the morning after work - And sometimes i'd lose interest. In fact, I believe it took me about 6 months to pass my Om'riggor, because I kept missing them all >:l But over time I bonded with several Orcs, both IC and OOC. Keishara was becoming the first character I truly cared and adored, and despite my fleeting attempts at other characters and concepts - I always came back to her, and the friendships she made over the years was astounding.

Until I killed her off.

Admittedly, it was a bad point OOCly in my life, and Keishara soon became a conduit for all of my negative energies - Frustratingly so I subconsciously put her through hell that character, on top of the unlucky times she had. In the end I came to hate RPing her, and decided to kill her off. Worst. Mistake.

I've had a few other Alts in the time since she died (Will have been over two years ago now!) But they also all failed miserably, again partially due to work climates. Makaroth here though represents a new beginning for me. Tied in with my new job, and new work times - I'm more active and making an effort to be on most evenings, as im free every evening now. Its going well, despite an early wobble (Evidently, I still had commitment issues) and hopefully I'll prove to those who have given me chances time and time again, but most importantly to -myself-, that I can be consistent now.

Orcs of the Red Blade is my home. Theres a reason i've come back to it so many times over the years. Its more than a community, its a family to me.

Shoutouts

Sadok:
I couldn't speak higher of you if I tried. You've been welcoming, warming and we became friends near-on instantly when we met. You've never done me any wrong over the years and always been there as a voice of reason to steady me when I was frustrated at times. It's safe to say I care for you deeply and the fact we've met twice IRL says to me that our friendship is strong. You're a lynchpin of the Red Blades in my view and as i've said to you many times before - The Tribe wouldn't be the same without you, both IC and OOC.

You've influenced and improved my Roleplay without even knowing about it, and I cannot thank you enough for being a mentor figure for me - You've helped me grow not only IC, but OOC too.

You're right. Keishara and Sadoks time together was certainly unique, and absolutely tragic. I wouldn't change a second of it.

Rhonya:
You're possibly the kindest and most caring person in this Tribe, and thats quite the bold statement to say. I know you can be unsure of yourself at times - But honestly you bring such joy and warmth to the Tribe we'd be lost without you. No matter -what- character I've Rped on, Rhonya has always got on with them and they've become somewhat friends (Apart from the current incantation of Keish, but thats another story!). You're a shoulder to lean on and frankly you've been my emotional rock over the years - But more so recently than ever.

You mean a lot to me, a hell of a lot - And i'd be lost without you I feel.

Trakmar:
Keisharas first mate. The Grumpy Mag'hari cared for Keishara in ways no other Orc did, and that made her extremely happy. You were resolute during the relationship with Keishara, even through the times when I was inactive, or not as active as I once were. Im sorry again about that, and for killing Keishara back then. We had some great Skype times, and a lot of laughs over the years. Im glad you're still around!

Kozgugore:
I wont echo too much, as Sadok has said pretty much most of what I wanted to say. I amazed at your dedication and steadfast nature to the guild - But you've always remained level-headed and composed, even in the face of drama and whatnot. All I can say is thank you for putting up with my inconsistencies, and even for allowing that insane way to bring Keishara back - Even if im unsure of where she stands now, you allowed me a chance to bring her back to the Tribe. I appriciate it.

Older Shoutouts who aren't around anymore.

Grogona:
Dammit, I miss you. Keishara and Grogona had become such awesome friends over the years, and I too became close with you. I know you're not here anymore - And I dont even know if you frequent the forums at all, but i'll always hope you come back one day.

Tarag:
A potential love that was extinguished before it had a chance to get off the ground. Keishara adored Tarag, and their romance was a whirlwind one. She still wore the Bloodied Ogrehorn around her neck to this day, and when he perished she felt true grief. I miss you dearly, and I hope you're well.

Vashnarz:
Before the events that won't be spoken of, for sanitys sake, happened we were very good friends. Keishara looked up to Vashnarz over the years and she was the first Orc she became blood-siblings with. You taught me how to PvP, something i'll never forget.

Im starting to tear up - But perhaps one of the most notable memories I have of the Tribe? My first Kosh'harg. Keishara, Grogona and Goru naked mud-wrestling. The males -adored- it.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on September 08, 2015, 06:08:31 PM

Quote from: Regorn on September 08, 2015, 05:46:18 PM

- Regorn was so set in his way's that everything that happen he did this way... I am pretty sure I threw away a manticore claw(was it those things we were rewarded? I can't remember) once because reasons... I think someone picked it up.

*cough* Sadok picked it up, and then pretended he'd won it legitimately. After a while, he was able to claim to have more wyvern fangs from the Challenge of the Wyvern than anyone but Krogon! Despite one of them being Regorn's, and two of them being from that weird phase where people were so terrible at solving the riddles that Koz gave everyone pity fangs for participation, Oprah Winfrey style.

(http://big.assets.huffingtonpost.com/oprahyouandyouandyoulego.gif)
"YOU GET A WYVERN'S FANG, YOU GET A WYVERN'S FANG, YOU GET A WYVERN'S FANG -- EVERYONE GETS WYVERN'S FANGS!"

Quote

- Also that time when I crashed our ship in to the wetlands... To be fair, it was not like we were going to use it again.

Can we get an over/under on the number of ships the tribe have crashed? I think I've been aboard three or four of them -- crashing into Northrend, crashing into Pandaria, and crashing into Westfall.

Quote

- That drinking night  + lier dice game with my Brother and guild when we joined OotRB shortly over the summer.

Was fun having Rekor and your brother (Raythar, was it?) for that short period of time! Hopefully it's not goodbye forever. :D

Quote

...by the way, what did you do with my staff?

"The staff of the redeemer remains a reminder to our tribe of times when our race as a whole revered the spirits in a time long gone. those the old days may have passed, Regorn honoured the old ways all the same, standing up for them against other view points and darker perceptions. His staff remains with us, a tool of healing for our High Blade Thur'ruk. May Regorn smile on us with pride as he see's the woudned tended well by that which he left behind. He knew his time well, and went to it as the Ancestors and spirits bid it, we shall miss you brother."
http://orcsoftheredblade.com/forum/index.php?topic=2808.0

Either that or we just fed it into a wood-chipper.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Rashka on September 08, 2015, 06:12:33 PM

I'll try digg up some of my fondest memories.. There's probably way more, to be honest, but those who knows me more closely, also know that my memory is worse than a potato's.


I'll start with some of my favorite characters:
Sadok, seriously. You can really make my day. Those horrible jokes ever fail to make me laugh, and the personality that your Orc got is insane. MUCH LOVE TO YOU.
Then there's Shrika, with her inner demons, she never fails to surprise me. That one time in the tower I will never forget. I'll talk more about that later!
Kozzles! I love you too. Seriously. There's much love to be given today guys, can you all feel it? No but seriously, you have done so much for the guild, and I'm happy!
..Then there's Groshnok. You've grown to become one of my best friends over the years, I love your character too.
There's a lot more, such as Skarain, Feral, Arkil, Drustai, Raene and Aariam. Many characters from back on Alliace side on Defias. But I won't go into detail :P

Favorite things; Seriously. That episode in the tower, with Rashka pointing a sword at Shrika, that she was ordered to hold, and not let go of, no matter what, whilst he tried to pull out Demons from her. I will -never- forget that night. When the sword started to swing her around in the air, and half the tribe came to help keeping her down.. It was just priceless. I loved it!
Then there was my first Om'riggor, where Rashka got her name. I don't think even the whole sword thing can beat how much I laughed my ass off that night. It was grand.
All the Kosh'hargs I've attended to is on this list aswell. I love them!
..Then there was that one time, where Rashka almost lost both her arms to a Raptor, at one of Norgrax's events back in Arathi Highlands. I will never forget that event.
Oh! I almost forgot my oath. Rashka's arms and hands was still fucked up from the raptor, but she still attended one of our duel nights, back in Twillight Highlands. It was then she proved herself, and she got to take her oath right after, over a *magick* fire. :3
There's probably a load more, but as I said, my memory is worse than a potato. And in reality, what really matters is just how many good times I've had with this guild. I love all you guys! <3 :D

People that have influenced Rashka over the past 2 years I've been here. (I believe it's 2 years.. o_o)
Kogra, you, without knowing it, have made Rashka a lot more.. Controlled. After that event at Kosh'harg, Rashka really have been trying to kill her urge to punch everyones face. Wether it's for good or bad, who knows!
Sadok & partly Rhonya, you have made Rashka realize a few things that she never had bothered to think about before. A few examples are the Spirits, and the consequences of sex. Yes I'm talking pregnancy here..
Groshnok. As the mate of Rashka this one is kinda obvious. They've shared moments together, that Rashka haven't shared with anyorc else. And she is not afraid to show her weak side to him.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Therak on September 08, 2015, 07:04:20 PM

Wow... ten years. What can I say...

Well, I can share some strong memories I have myself!

But first, I'll follow Sadoks examples with a few shoutouts of my own.

Morgeth
I don't know, Sadoks speaks of Morgeth as an RP celebrity, and I guess she was. I just see her differently. Probably because I knew her before, already back in the Sixty Thieves. And I can -never- forget her complaining about her DPS. And when I asked about her rotation I got the memorable reply "What's a rotation?"
Always brings me a smile.
Then again, in many ways that's how I know Morgeth. The orc who could always bring me a smile. A great character, who have had a whole lot of development.
And then to the things she's done for the guild. All the time she's spent making things better. Not just by bringing her roleplay, but being involved in events, plots and all kinds of stuff!
You'll never be the big RP celebrety for me. But you're a friend, and that's more important for me.

Kozgugore
Now here's someone I looked up to.  You were the first RP celebrity for me. But I didn't meet you much in character before I actually ended up meeting you out of character, and that probably left a bigger impression on me. You were a nice guy, though quiet. You could take a joke, and was just enjoyable company.
The steady platform you've provided the guild for a long time has been invaluable. You're willing to give people chances, more chances then I myself would give them. You're solid, dependable and what you've done for the guild goes beyond what I can say at this point. The leadership decides a lot in how well a guild survives. The years you've led this guild speaks volumes!

Sadok
Except for the size of your post making the rest of us feel our own sizes are inadequate, the effort you put into this guild is beyond me.
Not just all the plotlines and events you've planned and held, but the work you've done behind the scenes on the website. The keeping track of stuff around us, the whole lot of it. You've done as much to improve this guild as anyone I can think of.

There's others who probably deserve a mention, but there's only so much typing I can do at this point. If you've not been mentioned, that doesn't mean I don't love you, or appriciate what you've done for the guild! A guild is no better then the members make it!


And the memories
I have a bunch of little memories etched into my mind. So I thought I'd just throw in a couple and see what people remember!

A wartraining during late wotlk. We were in the Barrens, running all over the place. I was playing Gruthikk back then, and when he bent to refill his waterskin from the ocean another orc slapped it out of his hand and taught him that seawater is a bad idea to drink. The memory itself isn't anything fancy, it's just one of these small things I remember.

The climax of the Sceptre (NOT SPECTRE DAMNIT!) of the Shaman King plotline. All the way down in Ahn'Qiraj after finally finding the Sceptre a mist filled the room. It was an awesome feeling when orcs began dissapearing and fading away one by one. Noone knowing what happened to those who dissapeared, and expecting the worst. Sent shivers up my spine!

Of course there's the moment I took my oath on Therak. It was in Tanaris, during the previously mentioned Sceptre of the Shaman King plot. I think taking the oath is something most orcs remember...

There's my first Om'riggor, on Gruthikk. Sitting there and being excited over what my new name would be. I was not dissapointed! Forgestone suited the poor smith.

I loved my first experience of Challenge of the Wyvern, it's one of my favourite events and I'm delighted that I get to host it myself these days. It's a dream come true in some ways.

But the memories that'll last me the longest probably aren't the events, it's the friends I've made and the fun I've had. I've met a bunch of orcs in real life, and I've not regretted it yet.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Regorn on September 08, 2015, 07:25:35 PM

Quote

*cough* Sadok picked it up, and then pretended he'd won it legitimately.

I knew you were a cheater!

Quote

Was fun having Rekor and your brother (Raythar, was it?) for that short period of time! Hopefully it's not goodbye forever.

Can't speak about my brother, he seems to lost the lust for WoW with the massive PvP botting, he really just played WoW for the PvP.

Quote

Either that or we just fed it into a wood-chipper.

It's time for a haunting...

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gashuk on September 08, 2015, 07:29:53 PM

10 years, amazing. Milestones like this make me realise how much I have played this game for, and damnit, loved every second. Orcs of the Red Blade to me originally were an enemy, they dominated Horde RP and for a fair few years I never got into Horde Roleplay! This was a time when you couldn't play Horde and Alliance on the same realm without having two accounts and as I was sacrificing food and lunch money to scrape together £18 a month to purchase a pre-paid card from Blockbuster for one account, I certainly couldn't run two!

So for many a moon, the Red Blades were an enemy. An inspired enemy. They encapsulated the Horde, what it was about, how it was to be feared and fought. I remember the epic battle of Thandol Span that nigh broke the server and how I power leveled my Dwarf Hunter to the point it could use Feign Death just so I could stand a chance at surviving! (Not that my internet connection allowed me too!).

Yet eventually the boundaries were broken, I could make an Orc! Yet always the one to pay, rather than play, I transferred the same Hunter across and Eraggor was born. I remember Mazguul mocking the name for being far too close to Eragon, and I remember the tasks she gave me in Grizzly Hills as my Tutor. Poetry, hunting, it was such a different experience to what I had over on the blue-side of the hill and it had me hooked.

In my hay-day, I was a severe alt-holic and the moment I had a job, my limited income was spent mostly on faction changes and race changes so I could fit into certain character archs I had in mind at the time. My Priest, who now lies forgotten as a Worgen, has literally been every race a Priest can be. I have roleplayed a Elven Priestess of the Moon, a Drakkari Blood Priest, a Human Orthodox Priest and a Arathorian Priest headlining most of the cringeworthy (but creative) Ancestoral Worship Fan-Lore/Religion.

But I will never forget what I once read Kozgugore write in the forum, it may have even been his signature at the time. "If you roll a class that can be an Orc, and it's not an Orc. You have instantly failed." Do you know what? Priests can't be Orcs and if that wasn't going to change any time soon, which it hasn't, I needed to! Thus an Orc Shaman was born, Oargoth. Molded to be an Orcish version of my Arathorian, as pious and savage as can be, but it was short-lived. Mazguul tutored me yet again but RL got in my way and unfortunately things fell apart abit with WoW. It's only since I returned, making Gashuk, that I have ever felt a home in WoW even nearly as much as I felt at home with Kingdom of Arathor, and I'm very glad I returned to it.

-Shoutouts!

Firstly,

-Krogon. I love this character more than I can describe and he both OOC and IC has driven my own character development more than Ross probably realises. I always pitched Gashuk as the Orc that does the wrong thing for the right reason and how I created a Warlock that befriended a Blademaster is beyond me.

-Sadok. Time and time again it astounds me how much soul Sadok puts into the OotRB and it just would not feel right to not credit him for his efforts in maintaining the guild. Amazing.

-Grogona. COME BACK TO ME. <3

-Nograx. It will always be a great shame to me that Nograx ended up on such a sour note with the guild but with his time in it, and with Gashuk as they bonded, created such epic memories. From training to be Nag'ogar together, to Gashuk re-growing his finger back!

-Rhonya. I think Sadok has put together words that mimic all of our opinions of our favourite Mother. Fondly remember the moment Gashuk approached her and Grogona by the lake in Garadar with a traditional present of wolf-pelt and wolf-fang jewellery for her pups, shocking them both and when he was trusted enough to perform delicate rituals on her to remove the demons that lingered within! Rhonya is and will continue to be the one character that Gashuk feels strong emotional ties to, the Thur'ruk that asks an ex-Warlock advice on how to deal with the Spirits. ;)

I could go on forever, but I think we can all acknowledge that Orcs of the Red Blade is more than just a guild in a video game. It's a safe-haven, a place in my mind that I can retreat to. It's not just been in World of Warcraft, it's made World of Warcraft. It certainly made Defias, and now, on Argent Dawn, the next ten years commence!

For the Blood of the Tribe!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on September 08, 2015, 07:45:14 PM

Quote from: Gashuk on September 08, 2015, 07:29:53 PM

But I will never forget what I once read Kozgugore write in the forum, it may have even been his signature at the time. "If you roll a class that can be an Orc, and it's not an Orc. You have instantly failed." Do you know what? Priests can't be Orcs and if that wasn't going to change any time soon, which it hasn't, I needed to!

If orc priests are ever a thing down the road, I'm sure as heck re-rolling!

Quote

Thus an Orc Shaman was born, Oargoth. Molded to be an Orcish version of my Arathorian, as pious and savage as can be, but it was short-lived. Mazguul tutored me yet again but RL got in my way and unfortunately things fell apart abit with WoW.

My abiding memories of Oargoth will always be the poetry(?) you posted on the forums from him, which was awesome; and Morgeth giving him the ultimate in verbal bitch-slaps for comparing her to the Gul'dan who was puppeteering Kozgugore!

Then again, the stinging put-downs were always Morg's specialty. I wish I had the print-screen, but one of the first events I attended after Sadok's Oath was Rargnasha's funeral -- Morgeth gave this amazing tearful speech, and when a New Blood made a slightly sarcastic remark about how emotional she was getting, she screamed back "SHUT THE FUCK UP, NEW BLOOD" then just continued with the speech. xD

And speaking of Oargoth, much later, a suspiciously similarly-named orc appeared! Sort of like the two Maroggs!

Quote

I could go on forever, but I think we can all acknowledge that Orcs of the Red Blade is more than just a guild in a video game. It's a safe-haven, a place in my mind that I can retreat to. It's not just been in World of Warcraft, it's made World of Warcraft. It certainly made Defias, and now, on Argent Dawn, the next ten years commence!

Admittedly, I'm thinking of using some of the snappier quotes from this thread in our next recruitment thread, whenever we max out the current one. And when it comes to soundbites, it really doesn't come any better than this!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gridish on September 08, 2015, 08:05:23 PM

I’ve been sitting here for the last 20 minutes typing and instantly deleting the first sentence for my nostalgia post. I just can’t think of a good intro… So.. Yeah.. Sod the intro.

  The beginning
About 4(?) years ago a real life friend of mine started talking to me about how he found some very awesome roleplaying guild on a video game I never really even looked at. That roleplaying guild being Orcs of the Red Blades and the video game being Star wa-.. ha! Fooled you there… World of Warcraft. That talking wasn’t about it wasn’t a little bit, it was a lot. Then one day I just said: “Alright. Let’s do this. Let’s check this out!” That is exactly what I did. I made an account, followed my friend’s checklist and before I knew it, Gridish was born. Hardly having any knowledge of the orcish lore, I filled out an application, failed… then redid the application!
Then came the first interaction with the tribe-.. The first roleplaying interaction I have ever been in. It was in Bilgewater Harbor. Orcs of the Red Blades were about to set sail and this freaky ( Still as freaky!) Sadok Sharptongue was the first one I spoke with. I liked it. I liked the RP experience so far. Up until the tribe was heading to Pandaria ( 3 days later) and as a new person to the game, I did not have Mists of Pandaria, nor did I have a steady income to actually purchase the expansion. Best. Start. Ever. *Le sigh*
And now, about 4(?) years later, here we are. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Red Blades and I must tell you, I am proud to be part of it.

Shout-outs:
Of course there are people that have stood out for me during my time roleplaying with the Red Blades, but in all fairness, I don’t think that is relevant right now. Because at the end of the day it’s about Orcs of the Red Blades’ 10th anniversary, and this anniversary would never have existed if we didn’t have such an amazing community within our tribe. So I would simply like to shout out to everyone that has made this moment possible and say: “You’re the best! Even though you might not be here anymore, recently joined, or are the quiet shy dude or dudette hiding in the corner over there. *points* Yeah you! You are all amazing and thank you for giving me such a wonderful place to be.”

Special moments:
There are a few moments that I want to highlight that really stuck with me during my time with the tribe… So let’s get started!

The Defense of Shadowmoon Village (Outland Dark Shaman plot)
This goes back a year and a half/2 years ago. The tribe headed back to Garadar just to find that a Dark Shaman has been causing havoc in our beloved home world. Nearing the end of the campaign, the tribe moved to Shadowmoon Valley, where the Dark Shaman was held up. However! Before the tribe could set out to assault the Dark Shaman, the Dark Shaman sent the combined forces of the Ogres (lead by a stupid Ogre Warlock King that we eventually got to kill off.), the Arakoa ( Bird people for the simple minded.), Demons and Fel Orcs to besiege Shadowmoon Village and kill the Red Blades. This was one of the first events that I was helping out with as an alpha, and I –loved- it. Looking at the preparation drawing (drawn by Rargnasha) made me very nervous, but this is how the event was prepared (Drawing is in the spoiler!)

Spoiler: show

(http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss278/Davidson_02/Other%20stuff/MAPB.png) (http://s583.photobucket.com/user/Davidson_02/media/Other%20stuff/MAPB.png.html)

and I couldn’t have been happier about the outcome of the event myself. If I could repeat that event, I would. One of my first DM experiences was quite a special moment!

The move to Argent Dawn
This is something that Sadok already mentioned in his part. However, I feel exactly the same way about it and it is something that will stick with me for a long time. The community of the guild has (in my eyes) been a community with an amazing vibe and with a great bond. Where outsiders said “No, that will never work lol.” And “Wow, they’re abandoning those that can’t pay for a transfer?”, we showed them that they were wrong and that we are aren’t just some community that hardly knows each other. No, we care about one and other and we care about the tribe and it’s existence. The period of transferring was a real eye opener to me and showed me that this is one hell of a group that I’m proud to be part of. Don’t ever change.

First tournament of honor
This was a scary moment for me. One of the first Horde-wide events on Argent Dawn and one of the first events on that large of a scale for myself. Being able to organize such a big and (I hope I can say) successful event is something I always look forward doing. The satisfaction that you get from doing that is quite hard to describe. The amount of people that showed up stunned me. The amount of participants stunned me and the amount of positive feedback I received stunned me as much. If there is one thing this game has done for me, it’s teaching me organizational skills and I’m really thankful for it.

Being an officer
Being an officer has been very fun and a very good experience for me as a person. Being able to help create plotlines for the tribe to conduct. Talking about matters that could have severe consequences if they aren’t executed correctly (I’m looking at you, Realm swap! I’m looking at you!). Simply being able to help the tribe as much as I can. This is a description of fun in my books. Well, maybe not so much the part about severe consequences if we fail…. But the other stuff we do, YES! Not only has this experience been fun, it has helped me evolve as a person. It has helped me with my talking skills. It has helped me being able to express myself better in a somewhat more “professional” way. It has helped me organize better. It might sound silly, but my experience so far as an officer has helped me become the person I am today, and I am once again so very thankful for that.

Don’t ever change guys. <3

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Trakmar on September 08, 2015, 08:21:57 PM

Being a man of few words, here come the short post!

My three years in the tribe now has been an absolute blast. It's safe to say that this is the best guild I've been in since I started playing this game, and this guild has been the only thing keeping me playing over those three years. There's been some times of inactivity from my part (Partly because I lost the spark for the game, partly because the internet here is sometimes to bad that I just don't bother).

What does ORB mean to me? When I first came to DB during the summer in 2012, I was a bit intimidated at first, and feeling like one hell of a scrub as my lore on Orcs wasn't quite up to par. Though Sadok quickly made that feeling go away by being the first to approach me and keep a friendly attitude. Safe to say, we're all a bunch of sods that stares at pixels and act as though we are those pixels. And that's why I like you lot!

Shoutouts. Because reasons.

Sadok: Continuing to make this thread a Sadok praise thread, but oh well. Sadok was the first one I met in this tribe in game, and the one that let me join the tribe. His puns, jokes and whatnot rarely fails to bring a smile on my face, which I think is the main reason I like him, both IC and OOC. He's really just the funny sod that's smarter than us all.

Kozgugore: Kozgugore has been quite the inspiration when it comes to roleplaying an orc, namely that of being a grumpy old one. I think my fondest memory with him was in Un'goro when Trakmar took his oath. The OOC banter in Redorc made him forget to promote me.

Keishara: The one who taught Trak to have fun! Honestly, the time Trak had with keish in the guild was great. She helping shaping Trakmar, and developing him quite a bit, especially so during the Pandaria campaign and in the rebellion. Good times, which I can only look happily back at.

Rargnasha: Trak and Rarg -never- got along IC. They two always butted heads and were a cause of frustration to eachother. OOC though, I like to think we got along rather well. I much enjoyed the achievment runs he likes to host in old raids. And the shouting at me when I managed to fuck up.

Grogona: Me and Grog got well along from the start, with both of us really just being to nordic drunks. The banter we had in skype with Shargla, Vashnarz and Revax almost every day was simply just fun!

There are also quite a few others, but since I don't feel like writing the whole day, I'll leave it at this for now.

Some favourite moments from our many events over the years, provided without context:

Trakmar and Sadok reenacting the Mountain vs the Viper.
Playing Spin the Bottle in Ashenvale during the rebellion. One of the best nights we had, filled with booze, shenanigans and laughs!
Krogon gracefully crashing us into Pandaria.
Vash teaching me how to PvP with a hunter. Only so that I can get conquest gear and forget how it's done a day later.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Okiba on September 08, 2015, 08:53:58 PM

Where, in the name of heck... do I even begin?

What Does Orcs of the red blade mean to me?

I spent six years in the guild with various work related gaps and occasional misshaps, but I've found it to be frankly the only guild I ever felt at home in. Before I joined, oddly, I spent most my time RP'ing a human who chased the tribe around waging war on it and its allies. Lucky for the guild, Koz and the tribe gave as good as he got (much bruised buttocks did this possum receive). But it stuck in my mind how solid, organized and dedicated OotRB's members, officers and GM were. It was a guild to respect and admire. Eventually... I took the plunge, and moved to Horde, and was made very welcome by all.

The red blades mean a lot to me, in many shapes and forms. Its a guild of friends, who strive to push the boundries of and raise the bar of excellence when it comes to all things "Orc RP". The whole system the guild has from top to bottom... Recruitment, tutoring, hierarchy, events, plots, style, tradition, OOC harmony/unity, strong officer team and direction... are what give it a monumental edge. This guild is a well oiled, well built machine that knows what direction it wants to go in, how to get there and why. This guild takes inexperienced Rp'ers, and makes them into key cornerstones of the community by teaching, helping and developing with them ( and thats awesome.)

That is rare, and more importantly its special. Few hardcore guilds, be it PvP or PvE, can claim to of run for so long or boast to of always been a united 'group'. Heck, among RP'ers it is just as seldom heard of. And that, over all this time, is proof of how all of the above allows this guild to go from strength to strength.

Our finest moments came in many forms... the rebellion campaign, though fraught with problems, was proof of the guilds resilience. The move to argent dawn, of our unity and friendship, that we would all pool our resources to brilliantly to help each other. Maybe the march on Khaz-modan in 2010? a record high of 35 orcs online for an event, proving our dominance and strength. Who knows, perhaps the guilds finest moment is yet to come? the horizon is always spanning away into the distance, only time will tell where it leads... and more importantly, what great RP lays ahead.

So, yes... what does Orcs of the red blade mean to me? It means these following words:

- Continuity.
- Unity.
- Tradition.
- Friendship.

Shout Outs: (a few for now, maybe more later)

Kozgugore:

The boss, the big cheese, head-honcho, Cap'n, leader.... and my friend. Koz and I met, and even RP'ed together/against each other well before I joined the guild. To me he's always been the standard by which I strove toward and rated Orcish RP by. He made me welcome in the guild, helped me develop my character and gave me more chances and opportunities than I really ever deserved. And I'm proud to of shared some wonderful RP with him, and glad I asked him to finish Ol' Devilstep off, it was only fitting.

I have to repeat what Sadok says, Akesha birthed this guild. But Koz maintained it, raised it to great heights, and became it. When people think of him or the tribe, they instantly think of the other.

Sadok:

If Koz is captain kirk, Sadok is Scotty. He keeps the engine running, feeding it, nourishing it, maintaining it and pushing it to the limit. Without Sadok and his limitless wit, humor, ideas, artistic flares and dedication the S.S. Red blade could well be dead in the water. I always enjoyed RP'ing with him, in all his alt-forms, but arguably Sadok himself has to be one of the best Orc characters I have ever interacted with, well made, rich in depth and always evolving.

His genius for events is awe inspiring and one of the main reasons so many are drawn toward the tribe, providing a rich environment to create and tell story's.

Karak:

Karak breaks the mould. and more importantly, thanks to this guild, he can, to brilliant effect. Always providing a wide array of brilliant, well thought out and mind boggling brilliant tools, situations and characters. I' often stand in awe of just how much work he puts into his RP behind the scenes, and immensly saddened I won't get to see Siyah'gosh played out.

Rhonya:

Why Rhonya? Because Rhonya embodies everything good about this guild. starting from the bottom and working her way to the top through good RP done right, and more importantly by being so generous with her time and characters. And while this may sound static, she and her characters are always evolving, improving, striving (even if Rhonya herself IC is a stubborn quitter), Nadine practices, attempts, adapts and aspires all levels as a person and RP'er. A great role-model for any beginning RP'er.

Rargnasha:

Why Rarg? He's my battle-brother, blood-kin and friend. We fought from Dun algaz to andorhal, Zoram'gar to Orgrimmar and beyond together. While many beyond this guild may have a harsh word or two to say of him, I know all his stoic, stubborn efforts were born of one desire... to do the best he could for this guild and those in it, placing it above all others.

Gashuk:

Your right Ryan, I may never truely know what lasting effect I had on you, others or this guild (its impossible to gauge, for better or worse). But I do know you had a positive effect on me, and my RP. Always open, talkative, supportive, cautionary, advising and helpful. I ran so many ideas past you I lost track, but I know that you helped me keep myself in check, and helped me develop my RP. Gashuk as a Character is proof of just how amazing you are at character development, keep at it, I sense that characters journey as ... how did you describe Krogon once, an "Anti-Hero"? one of those, is far from over.


Favorite moments:

- That brilliant Khaz modan campaign, and our record of 35 Orcs online attending an event.
- The epic and stunningly easy vistory in andorhal.
- Koz turning into a female gnome.
- the trip to Ahn'qiraj to retrieve the staff of the shaman king.
- The defense of shadowmoon village, DM event.
- Saving that tauren druid from Rarg and Mozrogg. (it led to an exile, BUT... it was all IC, and brilliantly done, going from there).
-Defending orgrimmar IC with the guild from the cataclysm elemental invasions.

theres just so many brilliant events and occurances, random and otherwise that I can't name them all...

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on September 08, 2015, 10:26:15 PM

Rather typically, when we went to send out a friendly notification email about this thread to old members, the website's server exploded after sending about 33% of them. So apologies to anyone who has ended up receiving the same email multiple times in duplicate -- it looks amateurish, but we try to do better. <.<

All for the greater good, if we get some old eyeballs on this thread, I guess.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Drevan on September 09, 2015, 12:07:30 AM

You would NOT believe how many delivery fail reports I've had. Sup guys.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on September 09, 2015, 12:12:00 AM

Quote from: Sakareth on September 09, 2015, 12:07:30 AM

You would NOT believe how many delivery fail reports I've had. Sup guys.

(http://s29.postimg.org/6vmx48w5j/131640280175.jpg)

Rescue me from this website and its foibles.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Drevan on September 09, 2015, 12:13:29 AM

Won't be long Sadok!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Akesha on September 09, 2015, 12:56:16 AM

I must confess, when I started this guild I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I started playing WoW a few months after its release and my first character was a human rogue on Eathen Ring. I was totally new to the concept of roleplaying via MMO (although I'd played a little D&D in my teenage years) but I found nice little guild of about ten players, all rogues. I think that's what made me fall in love with the idea that RP guilds should have a strong theme.

That guild never really developed much and I started to hear talk from other players that the best RP was to be found on Defias Brotherhood, Horde side. Off I went and rolled, totally on a whim, an Orc rogue named Akesha - just to try things out, never actually intending to stick with the character and certainly without a plan.

After a few days I came across an all Orc guild The Sons of Draenor iirc and begged them to let me join. Unfortunately the whole guild just fell apart within weeks, the leaders disappeared (rumour had it they'd re rolled troll) and members were leaving fast. It was then, in a fit of pique I thought, sod it, I'll make my own guild. Before long, I was camped out in the barrens begging every unguided Orc, who looked like they might be a role player from their names, to join my new guild.

As far as highlights go, I'll never forget the great meeting of all the Horde RP guilds at Gurubashi arena. I had my speech prepared and spent the who time I was waiting to speak thinking, "don't fuck this up, don't fuck this up".

I'll never forget the other great event at Gurubashi arena, when we went to war against the Second Gurubashi Empire. They turned up with an absolute army of trolls but we had managed to muster virtually every member of ootrb and actually outnumbered them.

Mostly it's the people I remember though.

I can remember being in total awe of Kad, because he was the highest level Orc I'd ever seen and being to delighted when he joined us. We'd run into him purely by chance while running around, hunting Alliance. Kad was a fantastic second in command and greatly missed when he left.

For me though, the golden age of my leadership were the years when Rehbande, Varguhka, Oznack and Claws were my team. Reh and Varguhka were very much the ideas people and the real backbone of the tribe. Oznack was the Orc who got things done and Claws could always be relied upon to keep us grounded, telling us in no uncertain terms when we were getting things wrong. They were a fabulous team and I thought at the time they were irreplaceable.

I must mention Dogar (I hope I got his name right) who lead the tribe and kept it together during a spell when I needed a break. He did a fine job.

However it's Kozgugore who deserves the greatest praise. In hindsight it often feels like my greatest achievement with this tribe was choosing exactly the right person to take it over when I finally left. I see people calling him an RP legend and it's true. He's done more for this guild than anyone else in its ten year history and I doubt it would exist today if it wasn't for his leadership.

I left because I felt burned out. It felt like the right decision at the time and I still think it was the right thing to do. I did return briefly for Wrath of the Lich King and Kozgugore actually offered to step down and let me take over the tribe. I told him then, "this is your tribe now, not mine. It belongs to each and every Orc who makes it up." This guild has been blessed with great officers, but it has also been blessed with great members and you all should be proud of what it still is - the finest RP guild I have ever had the pleasure of being a part of.

I've returned now knowing that things will have changed and there are far more new faces than old ones, but I'm looking forward to being a part of this great adventure again, in my own small way. Expect me to take a back seat and just enjoy the ride.

Akesha Redblade.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Lars on September 09, 2015, 01:30:33 AM

I'm totally not really stealing Sadok's formatting. Absolutely not.

What does Orcs of the Red Blade mean to me?
Well, it's just a great group of people. Friendly and welcoming. Active. A great online home for anyone not a complete moron. (We always accepted 95% morons!)
Was a home for two of my characters. First Marogg after his illfated attempt at showing what living in a city did to orcs even old ones (made them turn to crime). Gave me tons of good fun and memories. Friendly rivalries, drinking companions, "old man" companions of "Kids these days" (About the 60 year old orcs even!). A chance of redemption of what he did as "Skipper".
A great character I wish I hadn't killed. But keeping him alive felt to much as powergaiming to fit myself isntead of the story.

Then Muzjhath. Who first had a different name that got accusations of being to "Elf" like so I changed it. Bloody peer-pressure. That little psycopath was a different story. Engaging and rewarding to play, if often not fun. Having to thing in her mindset was hard and unpleasant. I still imagine I was fun for the guild. In a "interesting", if not "Haha" way.
Kozgugores rabid dog is how I thought of her towards the end. Fiercy loyal creature (for her own benefit) whom others wonder why it's tollerated. Who thought killing children was a mercy due to growing up in the internment camps.

My second regrett would be having been an officer on Muzjhath, not Marogg. Since the younger orc only fit very narrow roles of the responsibility. Having to partly leave character for interviews and stuff like that. The older orc would have been better for every part of the things aside from the "Protecting the Cheiftain" of being a Varog'Gor. For that he was to old.

But yes, over the years it's been a home on the internet. An over-all friendly place where you can always come to relax and laugh.

Your favourite OotRB characters, and the people behind them!

Morgeth, will have to start there. Wonderfully damaged character that I played with for years. She grew, she got lost a bit, she came back. She was a bit insane. But in the end, very human for what she handled. ... if an Orc.
Also played by an amazing person. That I should interact with more than I do really. ... Even if she is the reason my original orc died. If on another character. Maybe not the best thing, but made for some great roleplaying. You were also a great community organizer over several guilds and the wider server.

Kozgugure will have to be next. The character is a wonderful (fat) grumpy orc. Traditional with a slight progressive bend. Solemn, stoic.
And as a person, you're great. Even if, as above. Not enough interaction the past few years. But know that you're the best guild leader I've had over the years. Knowing that the most important thing in the core of a guild is silent stability.

Sadok. Here I'll just circle jerk with the rest of us. I have, on my laptop hard-drive, a fantastic chatlog filled with innoendos all done IC. ... Mostly between you and Morgeth. You're a firesoul and dedicate far to much of yourself to this community.

Therak, ok. I'll be fair. Most of the RP I've done with that character of yours have been when he wasn't in guild. Or when my characters weren't in guild. But it's a "lovely" little thing. Crude and Skipper will always have a beat-bag in common. We need to find a weekend to go to laserdome before christmas. (Everyone else will ofcourse be welcome if they can get there).

Krogon and Rargnasha. I'll pull this as a double here. Since both of your characters served in similar ways. To both of mine. First, when Marogg joined it was around the same time as those orcs. I remember all three (along with Mazguul) became Nag'Ogar at the same time. Trying to be patient with the younger generations.
For Muzjhath they were motivators and mentors, and at one point a skinner. Made me take her places in RP I otherwise wouldn't have. And gave more depth to a character in giving some obvious ways of "what would an orc do to fit in".
As well as arrangers of RP-PvP.

Gnash, the elder. While far from an agreeable orc. You did tons of fun stuff with the guild. And that vien had to pop one day. Sorry for cutting your throat as you were abusing Gruthikk in Ratchet. Everything worked out in the end!
Also a fire soul here. If not always the best of team players.

Your favourite events, plots, storylines or even spontaneous encounters!

The wetlands event chain I have fond memories off. ... Even if I don't remember why we were there. And that the battle of Thandol Span was a horrid affair of drama.
I also enjoyed the Cataclysm Patch play. Hunting for the tribe, finding everyone. Was a well executed event.

Enjoyed most campfire story nights. Lots of bullshit, drunk shenanigans, and just enjoyable people. Even if Muz was the wrong character for them really. She was not a social creature.
Muzjhaths blade-master training was also a blast. Same as the Varog'Gor training. Even if her fellow trainees almost killed her during her test of them. And Kaigron blushing when the practical thing to carry a wolfs heart in was Muz's clothing and she stripped topless.

When Marogg shares his Sulfur Slammers. And made everyone but Mazguul run to the river and cool down.

The Plague-lands campagin where Marogg died. While I was only there for half of it or something. I still enjoyed it. The Undead acted like they should. The elves were stuck up. And the orcs didn't put up with it and went "After tonight we GTFO!" of here.
Then Marogg died somewhat spontaneously. I had resigned that he should die and felt that evening it was fitting. The orcs get pissed of and go ORC SMASH! (in the end being the deciding factor in winning the campagin for the horde). And Morgeth, along with Regorn and another orc I can't remember, go to Garadar to burn a corpse. With Morgeth crying crocodile tears.

I also enjoyed stalking Morgeth as spirit Marogg. And playing a spirit in Howling Fjord for the tribe at an event.

Guilds and individuals outside of OotRB with a fond place in your heart!
The Sixty Thieves... back before I didn't. People/characters leaving can do lots of a guild. But had a ton of fun times with this guild, even if the IRL meet-up for new years turned into more of a former guild members thing istead.

Meave/Shabs/Ganra/etc Lovely person, even if things were up and down occasionally. In the end far more good than bad. Even if she did ruin doing raids for RP gear with scrubs for me. NEVER go do it with dedicated raiders if you want to keep your patience with stupidity. The interactions between Skipper and Cherry was also the development that made him have IC reasons to leave the sixty (or, personal reasons if not ideological). Then that it was that relationship that lead to his death by hand of Morgeth Alt. Well, that's a different story!

The Second Gurubashi Empire. I'll just say feeding time, to cover this. And the letter exchanges on the realm forum.

Some elves from Sin Belore. Who were good elves and not just pretty humans. Always fun to interact with. Both as an elf and not.

Pest, whom it was never boring around. If often infuriating.
Shade, Fool, Fingers, Blade, Rat, and some other lovely people in the sixty. Who kept sane when the guild went insane.

What OotRB meant to you over the years, and if you're no longer with us, what you're up to now!
It was a fantastic community. Still is, to the degree I'm still part of it. If I didn't find the core game so extremly boring I'd still be an active part of it. However, WoW just isn't worth the money anymore. Paying for a crap game is the definition of stupid.

Today I attempt to study physics at Lund university. To either get a job somewhere, or continue on and become a teacher of. I play to much DOTA2 when it comes to games. I don't RP enough (trying to remidy that). And just keep my mind afloat.
Met some great people. Still have contact with some great people. And generally doing better than I was.

Physics is awesome, if at times very silly.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Rhonya on September 09, 2015, 02:36:57 PM

Well.. Okay. Seeing everyone is making such walls of text, I'm just going to keep this short! You've all made such wonderful post and also things about me (Thanks guys <3 ), if I'd had to respond in person to all of that I'd still be writing tomorrow.

I joined this guild about four years ago, on an accident actually, seeing I happened to run into some of you while I was in Silvermoon, of all places. Grek'thar managed to convince Rhonya to come to the Kosh'harg, and well.. I just never left again.

- Your favourite OotRB characters, and the people behind them:
I'll just pull a Gridish here and not go into too much detail. The people who I really appriciate know this very well about themselves I hope, and also why I appriciate them so much. If I really need to call a few names: Koz, Sadok, Therak, Grid.. You've all helped me along in my RP and made me feel at home in this guild, also meant a lot to my character in the past and right now. Same goes for Keishara and Gashuk, Sinami and Krogon and many more that I RPed with over the years. Thank you all. <3
And a very special mention to my own lovely husband, Srelok, who got me to play WoW in the first place and dragged me into RP, and helped me along the way with his ideas and support.

- Your favourite events, plots, storylines or even spontaneous encounters!
Don't even know what to name here. Too much has happened... Though I look back fondly on the 'in between event' time of the Rebellion, just the camp in RP and everything surrounding that. Also the very long storyarc Rhon and Sadok have been having together, really surprises me for how long that's been going and how it's progressing!
Rhonya's demon plot, even though it was mainly done behind the scenes with only a few people, I loved it. It was supposed to be a bit of a 'secret' thing, and that's exactly what it became and I'm so pleased with how that ended and how things went. <3
Personal plots that I've had the priviledge of being a part of. Sinami's plot, Gashuks changes, all those things. Thank you guys for pulling me along in it!

- Guilds and individuals outside of OotRB with a fond place in your heart!
I was a part of SGE for a long time, that was always fun when the two guild did run into one another.
The Cult of Shadow... My first encounter on DB RP wise, and well... It was both terrifying and wonderful. I've not yet encountered any other guild that has the deepness and fanatic thing that they had going. ICly, you had to be able to handle it.. OOCly, they were a great bunch. They got me into RP, and we've had some wonderful moments.

- What OotRB meant to you over the years.

The last few years have been pretty hard for me. I've been mainly jobless and looking for a job, and basically WoW was, and still is, an escape for me. I probably wouldn't be playing this game if it wasn't for all you guys. Some of you really helped me at times OOCly, and others have been there for me ingame as well.
I'll just echo what others said before me. This guild is such a strong and bonded group of people, I would've never expected to find that in a video game. But I'm really, really happy that I've been such a part of it, and hope to be still for the next coming time.
Honestly guys, you're all wonderful. <3

There, was that short enough?

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sinami on September 09, 2015, 11:36:06 PM

I have only been in OotRB for about a year now, but I don't think I've ever felt more at home in a guild during all my years in WoW. I joined the guild mostly because of Rarg. He convinced me to make an orc and helped me level it up and then introduced me to OotRB. And while he was the one who introduced me to the guild it was a few others who actually made me want to stay and make Sinami my main character from then on.

- Your favourite OotRB characters, and the people behind them!
As I mentioned above there are a few characters that have made my time with OotRB extra special and memorable, people that have made me want to stay in the guild and make it my new "online home" and those are as follows:

Rhonya: You were one of the first to approach Sinami and find out about her blindness. You also took care to include Sin right from the start, both ICly and OOCly, for which I will be forever grateful. You also helped me with Sin's personal plot and created this wonderful event for me that was so incredibly touching. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you. <3

Kogra: The first real friend Sinami made in the tribe. I really like Kogra as a character, her naivitë and craziness... and her fierce protectiveness too. Fits well together with Sinami. Over the past year they've had a few interesting adventures for sure, and I hope there'll be more of them now that you've moved with us to AD! ^^

Therak: You also made me feel welcome right from the start, both ICly and OOCly. It has been fun and interesting to see the friendship between Sin and Therak bloom and become more solid and reliable. They've got each other's backs now for sure. Therak is also a wonderfully complex character, which makes the RP with you so much more fun! There are always new things to prod for and figure out.

Kozgugore: Funny how some things just end up completely different from how you imagined them to be, right? At first Koz seemed so distant and unapproachable... and so very very grumpy. But when you scratch a bit on the surface there are so many interesting things just waiting to be uncovered. And that is the thing, just like Therak Koz is wonderfully complex... yet straightforward at the same time. RPing with Koz is never boring, whether it is deep discussions, sappy fluff or heated arguments that ends with death threats, so I encourage everyone to poke and prod a bit at our dear chieftain to see what lies behind the mask of grumpy old orc. It will enrich your RP, trust me. ^^

Srelok: What would I do without the heartbreakingly sweet and tragic RP with Srelok? What would Sin do without one of her absolute best and dearest friends? As with Therak it has been so much fun watching Sin's and Srelok's relationship grow until it has become very confusing and heartbreaking for everyone involved. I love it. And as with all of the above Srelok is an amazing character to RP with. It never grows stale, there is always something new every single time which is awesome.

I could name a few others as well, but you guys are the reason why I decided to stay in OotRB and make it my new home. So thank you, for making me feel welcome and for approaching me and my socially awkward orc and dragging me into your world of craziness, dramatics (in a good way) and lots and lots of fun. You're awesome people, both IC and OOC, all of you! <3 And the guild and the people in it are absolutely amazing as well!

- Your favourite events, plots, storylines or even spontaneous encounters!
Most of the events that I remember the best are the small, personal plots I have been involved in. But to name a few:
- My first Kosh'harg, when Sin actually met the tribe for the first time and Frostfang ended up babysitting Rhonya and Therak's kids.
- When Sin was granted temporary sight by Mayabi (Nadine's troll) and Kogra took her to see the ocean.
- When Kogra and Sinami became bloodsisters.
- When Sin had recieved her first kiss ever and was completely panicked and ended up in a hilarious, but extremely awkward, conversation with Rhonya and Kogra.
- Sin's solution to her second newblood task to duel five orcs. We were in Frostfire. Snowball fights. Sadok was -furious-. Need I say more?
- Frostfang's sacrifice. Such a beautiful and moving event. One of my best RP experiences ever, since it touched me so deeply.
- The craziness that followed the loss of Frostfang. The arguments with Therak, Srelok and Koz... that ended with Sin almost killing Koz and the realization that he might very well have let her do it, had she not stopped herself in time.

- Guilds and individuals outside of OotRB with a fond place in your heart!
My original main is a night elf hunter named Lomenár. I have played her since vanilla and I have RPed her for... 8 years or so now. For the past 5 years I have been a part of Nature's Grasp, my first real "online home". I love all the people in it and while I don't play Lomenár very often anymore I still keep in touch with the guild. Some of my favourite people from Nature's Grasp are Aariam, Salirien, Elysar, Lianna, Shak, Nelani, Kaldur and Arkil.

- What OotRB meant to you over the years, and if you're no longer with us, what you're up to now!
As I mentioned above, OotRB has become my new "online home" and it has been a wonderful outlet and escape when I've gone through some rough times. It has also led me to a bunch of amazing people! Some I have already met IRL and some I really hope I will meet one day... and if you won't come to Sweden, I will have to come and invade your homes. Just so you know. *nod*

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Rhonya on September 10, 2015, 01:29:22 AM

Quote from: Sinami on September 09, 2015, 11:36:06 PM

Some I have already met IRL and some I really hope I will meet one day... and if you won't come to Sweden, I will have to come and invade your homes. Just so you know. *nod*

You know you're always welcome here! <3

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Kogra Windwatcher on September 10, 2015, 07:33:34 AM

Quote from: Rhonya on September 10, 2015, 01:29:22 AM

Quote from: Sinami on September 09, 2015, 11:36:06 PM

Some I have already met IRL and some I really hope I will meet one day... and if you won't come to Sweden, I will have to come and invade your homes. Just so you know. *nod*

You know you're always welcome here! <3

Indeed Sin! Know that you can always invade Rhonya's en Srelok's home :P

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Srelok on September 10, 2015, 08:50:45 PM

I haven't been with the guild as long as some, but I'd like to chime in. (Even though I suck at this and am a man of few  words....)

- Your favourite OotRB characters, and the people behind them!
Well, I can do a cop-out and go : "I like you all!!!!1" But I think some of you deserve a special mention.

Rhonya: Well, duh. Wife and all, but you're a person I can always turn to and who's always there to give me love when I need it. <3

Sadok: Also a no-brainer but yeah. Always gives a 110% to the guild and makes everything so much more fun. :)

Sinami: As you said, the RP between Sin and Sre has evolved in ways I'd never have imagined. There's never a dull moment when they're together, even though Sre always end up hurting himself. That's the fun of RP.

Kargnar: Sre's bloodbrother and eternal spammer of new Xmog sets. Great guy, always gives everything to the guild. Great addition to the officer team as well.

- Your favourite events, plots, storylines or even spontaneous encounters!
This is a hard one....
-The Akesh/ Tanaan storyline, with its epic conclusion.
-The fel infusion plot with Kogra and the others, and Sre's near-death experience.
-Getting the spirit link to work on Draenor.

- Guilds and individuals outside of OotRB with a fond place in your heart!
Eh... I quite fondly remember my time in the Cult of Shadow, and people who we've now reconnected with on AD like Claudine/Belthran.

- What OotRB meant to you over the years, and if you're no longer with us, what you're up to now!
You've all basically become my family online, and I enjoy the kindness and open attitudes aof all of you whenever I just need to vent after a frustrating day at work. :)

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Claws on September 11, 2015, 01:31:58 AM

First of all I apologise to all for not mentioning your name while writing this if any decided to read my wall of words.
After all I have seen more than any other here wearing the colours and name of

                         Orcs of the Red Blade.

What the World of Warcraft means to me the person.
Escapism.
A place where you can go to get away from life’s reality.
A place to become that character you deep down want to be.
An outer ego.

In the past I had a personal bound with people within the tribe not in a RP sense but behind the smokescreen of WOW just as others do now.
People with the same day to day turmoil of daily life who just want to escape.
We had a talk channel of our own making then called Red Blade the OOC channel you may have heard of it.
We would talk with good humour away from the politics of the game we invited people to the channel of a like mind.
A place where we let off steam.
We took the micky out of each other and never took it to a personal level.
We were quiet selective on who we let join our ranks.
That was the Orcs of the Red Blade.
The vanilla Orcs of the Red Blade as they would call it now. 

So what changed?
Well real life did the driving force that we all forget about when we are in the world of Azeroth.
People moved on because of life’s curve balls, commitments in their own lives and dare I say it work.
Akesha or any of us then thought it would never last as long as it has.
New people joined wanting to be a part of a group of Orcs, the down trodden outcast within the game more and more came to our ranks.
We had people joining us on a whim not true Role-players, the “I’m going to be an Orc and shout and bang my chest because that what Orcs do brigade”.
We the officers lost out on our own game time spending our time instead running the group and not playing the group trying to weed out the None RP.
Big chasms opened up of conflict not only with the masses but within the leadership.
And I put my hand up to some of this as being part of that conflict I did not like what I was seeing, did not like the changes within the RP world.
But how could this be was we not a RP server with RP laws which were in the beginning policed by Blizzard to the point of if they thought your name did not fit within the realm you was made to change it.
I used to get so annoyed and still do when people resulted to open swearing it was very rare then but not so now, you risked an account ban for a few weeks from Blizzard if caught doing it, now I just have to grin and bear it because “it adds to the character”.

(Side note)
I had to write to a GM myself and explain the thinking behind the name Claws as it was not seen as a RP name.
It took them a few weeks for them to get back to me and tell me they had been watching me and how I was playing the name before they agreed to let it stand.
Claws is and never has been my given Orc name and not many even know it is not openly used, it is something that I’m proud about, giving me an identity unique within the tribe just by that fact alone and I hope that nobody else jumped on it.
It was these things that gave the server its flavour in the early days.

Then the biggest change to the group came an Orc called Koz.
I would hide in the background trying my best to deal with the wellbeing of the tribe, the discipline, the fun part as I then saw it.
The slapping of heads a part I enjoyed because of the RP aspect and the feedback I was getting, there was nothing better than making all the Orcs strip down to their Tabards and run around Hammerfall oh the joy of all them male torsos, (Opps I go off track).
Then came my curve ball.
Slowly I started to sink more into the background taking a rest if you like within the game, leaving more and more to Koz.
I had some bad personal problems that I had to deal with my husband who was an officer in the marines (Now you know were my discipline issues come from) was in trouble that is all I can say and will.

Koz understandably started to resent my lack of commitment to making up events and running with them.
I would come up with ideas and then pass them over to others to carry out, something that I look back at now and deeply regret.
I have great trouble running events this is due to my Dyslexia I have great trouble keeping up with dialog within the game I have to type with spell checker on all the time and that is no good if you are running an event when 90% of the time it is of the cuff.
For a long, long time even to this day I have been labelled antagonist due to my disability which many if not all do not understand or appreciate it is my lack of communication skill which leads me to get totally frustrated with myself in trying explaining my meaning which digs me deeper into conflict.
At times it can get personal with whisper of “you cannot even spell properly you retard” which I still get now.
Being called a retard when you are clinically diagnosed as one is not nice believe me.
Claws went off line for a short while and returned new remade Claws.
I had promised myself to keep out of the political going on with in the tribe and keep my mouth shut.
So Claws became the recluse she is to this day, keeping out of the way trying to not get involved.
I’m still Claws more than willing to help out in any way I can but alas that has never been forth coming so I keep in the shadows away from the tribe.

I do not relate too many within the tribe now my doing I know.
So now you say “why do you stay with the group you cannot relate to any more”?
Well I guess I just like to be part of the legacy part of the name Orcs of the Red Blade.
After all there is a big part of me within the Blades and its history I’m a living history book old and torn and frayed around the edges and could anybody after 10 years of blood sweat and tears put into something that is all within your own mind just close the book and say “That it done”.
No the story goes on.

My Shouts.

Well to start where would we be without Akesha
I remember many, many nights getting her to level up I think she was still only a level 40 when all around her was 60.
Her enjoyment came from walking around and just picking up random RP
Rehbande, Varguhka, Oznack, Kad the back bone if you knew them you loved them so many good times laughing until we cried.
Koz another legend no matter what battles I get into with him to this day he will always have my respect and best wishes.
Karak as all ready stated by others I cannot get over the depth of RP he can portray I still remember him being pushed of the tower by Kad and his annoying little poems mainly aimed at me.
Sadok to me is a new breed of Orc but what a star.
Rhonya a great ambassador for the tribe and for RP in genral.
Morgeth Koz’s better half another star I remember my first encounter with her when she came over from the Forty Thieves.
I could go on and on about The Blades and its members but if you have read this far you will be bored.
I just want to say my deepest respect to all the officers past and present you have my heartfelt thanks for keeping me entertained for the last 10 Years.
And to ALL the Red Blades old and new I bow to you all.
Here is to the next 10 years.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Rehbande on September 11, 2015, 01:34:04 AM

It's been a long while since I quit playing, but I still keep a lot of memories.

One of those was the great event where we had a war with the Second Gurubashi Empire; having the standoff in the Gurubashi arena, with a load of orcs on one side and a load of filthy trolls on the other side was the peak moment. Crushing the trolls on their home turf was truly sweet! ;D

All those wars and skirmishes with the Dwarven Rifle Squad (like Dorfskull mountain). W-PvP event that went on forever (months), concluding with a peace treaty and party.  

I remember that the tribe frequently sat together after some event or other just to drink ourselves to oblivion around the fire.

I certainly had a great time with the tribe and I'll always stay a Red Blade.

Favourite characters? Damn, too many, but here's just a handful:

Akesha - will always be my Matriarch! 'nuff said! Oh, and I still remember those nutty chats about gardens.

Oznack (the mad orc with the smelly socks), Vargukha, Claws, Azuril, Ghook, Moggrash, Griesh, Yorla, Kad, Rylla, Tirnak, Dogar, Kozgugore, Beldar, and many more.

For the Blood of the Tribe!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Grekthar on September 11, 2015, 01:57:08 AM

- Your favourite OotRB characters, and the people behind them!

Can I opt out and just say all of them? xD Aside from the people already mentioned by others, Sadok, Rhonya, Kozgugore etc etc... can't think of any real favourites...

All the shaman RP'rs I've encountered who've helped me in one way or another become a better shaman and all-around RP'r

And pretty much just the guild in general really... you guys showed me the ropes, and helped me grow and develop my character, both IC and OOC. I learned how to play WoW and RP in it, through this guild.

- Your favourite events, plots, storylines or even spontaneous encounters!

The one event that stands out in my mind the most, mainly because that was my first ever experience with RP-PvP, was the Southern Barrens campaign when I joined during Cataclysm... it was the final battle of the night, it was all tied up, this was the deciding battle, and for some reason I cannot recall, Koz let me give this altered LoTR speech... This newbie player, in both terms of IC and OOC, level 34 shaman... And you know what? We won that final battle. We kicked the Alliance's arse big time!

There have been other RP-PvP campaigns and battles since then, but that one will always stick with me the most.

- Guilds and individuals outside of OotRB with a fond place in your heart!

Natures Grasp on the Alliance side whom I'm still (somehow) a part of. Met them through the aforementioned event, and have stuck with them since on the Alliance side of things.

- What OotRB meant to you over the years, and if you're no longer with us, what you're up to now!

...Shit, I was supposed to say what I said earlier in here... er... See Above for details >.>

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Ugluhk on September 11, 2015, 02:24:30 AM

I have some great memories... But too keep it short (writing on an iPad)

First contact, when Oznack dragged my lvl 30ish butt out to the river between the two plague lands for my interview... All the million times I died was worth it.

I'm not gonna do a shout out to people, mostly because I cannot for the life of me remember most of them, but rest assured I thank all of you that was part of the tribe in my time.

My characters interacting with OotRB:
Uglûhk, old shaman. Remembered a time before the burning legion. Hates warlocks.
Nose, sixty thieves alt. murdurer, spy, arsonist.

Some fond memories then:
my constant battle with the warlocks. They got us into the mess that was the BL, we must return to our old ways to repent!

The long winded tribe meetings (led by Rehbande and later Dogar)

Burning down the Orgrimmar orphanage (as nose), then getting chased down by claws.

Again as nose, spying on a tribe meeting and recognizing Morgeth. ICly, few if anyone knew of her past in the sixty thieves, so I think I tried to black mail her... Not sure, but I'm sure she threatened to kill me, resurrect me and then kill me again. End of the day, I ran away with orcs chasing me.

Koz will always be the 'new' chieftain for me.

And many many more...

I've tried to come back a couple of times, but I've always lost interest in the game itself... I might try again, but as someone completely different. Some parts are best left in nostalgia land...

I still look back on my time here as some of the best gaming I've had. I cannot thank the tribe enough. *bows deeply*


EDIT: oh, and Koz introducing me to ZZ Top. Thanks buddy.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Therak on September 11, 2015, 07:02:38 AM

Quote from: Ugluhk on September 11, 2015, 02:24:30 AM

Nose, sixty thieves alt. murdurer, spy, arsonist.

I remember smashing that nose and giving him the name in the sixties! :D

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Ugluhk on September 11, 2015, 07:22:17 AM

Quote from: Therak on September 11, 2015, 07:02:38 AM

Quote from: Ugluhk on September 11, 2015, 02:24:30 AM

Nose, sixty thieves alt. murdurer, spy, arsonist.

I remember smashing that nose and giving him the name in the sixties! :D

Before you went all "strength and honor" and all that crap ;)

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Therak on September 11, 2015, 08:56:44 AM

I didn't.  Therak is still weir and cunning oriented

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Umaua on September 11, 2015, 12:29:30 PM

I haven't been with the guild overly long, but long enough to have memories.

Firstly I'll start with how I got in.
I blame Vezara and Vraxxar. I know the two from GW2 and they convinced me to apply after having been looking for an orc themed guild on AD and coming out short. Sure there's guilds but not all of them to my flavor. So I crossrealmed from AD to Defias to see whats what before actually making an application. So I came to Defias and joined in!

What does Orcs of the Red Blade mean to me?
This might sound cruel but but Red Blade is just a guild to me. But then, guilds are a place for RP and socializing and possibly making friends. And I don't stay in a guild that doesn't provide good quality in these. And hey, I did transfer to Defias to join and then back to AD so...take it as you will.
A few shout-outs :
I don't tend to rate people, but there are few I'd like to mention due the stuff they do, or qualities of their personalities.

Rhonya: If there's a face to the newbloods for this guild, she's that. In the OOC chats especially she's like a bunny hooked up to a caffeine, spreading love <3

Sadok : Much like Rhonya, but in different way. Again a face to new people but even more IC. I am sometimes wondering if there's 3 of him, since he's everywhere. While at times I admit, I facepalm at his antics. He is still the spirit the pushes stuff forward, atleast visibly, with enthusiasm that shines like a sun.

Bunching together the wonderfull officer group : Rest of you manager lot work in a bit more conservative manner even if no less than the two I've mentioned. It just about how it shows out atleast to me.

Rest of the members I don't single out, like I said. I don't rank you. I either like you or I don't but in my eyes mostly everyone is equally lovely.

Some favourite moments from our many events over the years, provided without context:

There's no event I can(or remember) single out. I love the interaction, not the events. And while I don't agree or like all the events, I do like doing them with other people. So to me...its been one long continuous favorite moments, with the campfire stuff mixing into it.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Kozgugore on September 11, 2015, 02:28:21 PM

Well, this is a daunting task. How does one sum up the past ten years in but a single response? There's far too many memories for me to name that still linger around in my head, and still I find myself wanting to put them all to paper. I have no idea where to begin, so I'll just begin writing and see where this rollercoaster ends! Incidentally, a sentiment very similar to my initial thoughts when first joining ORB.

As Akesha mentioned, there was once a guild by the name of Sons of Draenor during Defias' earliest days. Though I decided to take a little break from the more serious RP once that one died out, I kept on finding myself returning to my orc hunter because both the Horde setting as well as the hunter playstyle both appealed to me the most. So when I decided to take a more serious interest in ORB (other than the occasional, little run-in), it already had "intimidating big shots" like Claws (rightfully so the first to be named ;)), Rehbande, Oznack, Vlog and so on. Still, after I overcame that first hurdle, I found myself being welcomed and integrated to the guild much faster than I ever thought I would. There were big, social events and political tensions (SGE being the prime culprit of that) and then there were small, private plots and personal progression within the guild itself that gave it that extra bit of flavour to remain interesting well above any other RP guild that I've been in.

What probably makes my memory about the tribe special, is that in a way, it feels like I've grown up along with it. Though I tried to keep it very hush-hush at the time, in fear that people might judge me for my age, I believe I was only 17 years old when I was handed the tribe leadership. I sometimes look back at that time and well and truly wonder how someone like me was able to keep it going from there and actually set up a believable character to boot, because there's plenty of things that I could nitpick about in hindsight (I always did have an almost unhealthy sense of self-criticism). Still, as I grew older, the tribe developed in its own way as well. And as a result, having all those responsibilities and experiences with other people developed me as a person as well. Be it for good or worse (it totally did not make me a bitter person when it comes to dealing with people online sometimes, nope).

While I sometimes can't help but feel that my "prime" is well past me and wonder just how relevant I am considering how much time has passed, I still like to try and think that I can be useful in my own way. Albeit (regrettably) less visible in-game, ICly, I suppose I've taken a bit more of a "back seat role" to give others the freedom that they like. While I do sometimes miss a few of the things from the past, it's probably exactly that which makes this guild so strong and enduring as well: The ability to get with the times and adapt to the possibilities WoW as a game (or lack thereof) offers and to keep on advancing as a guild.

Which brings me to my own, little reflection upon the guild. How has it changed over time, and what made it so successful, other than its flexibility over the course of time? First and foremost its people, of course. So long as there's a small group of core members that remain active, a guild can be very endurable. And over the past years, we've always had a particular group of people that stuck around over the course of time no matter what. Even very small ones, when the guild knew a bit of a downtime. And with those core members, having at least one or more officers who continued being active to create the events necessary to keep things rolling. What allows all of that to happen however, is a steady guild structure and concept as well. While her idea may have been quite spontaneous and random at the time, Akesha built a foundation with the guild's concept that was strong enough to last for several years. DB was always an RP realm that was particularly big on the race-exclusive concepts, and ORB always managed to fill that gap for orcs perfectly with its concept of an honest, Horde-loyal guild, setting no restrictions when it comes to player class, level, background story or RP experience. It provided a home for everyone that was open for the concept, with merely people's own will being an obstacle to join if they so wished.

As for what's changed, some things may be more obvious than others. Of course there's the members and the officer team behind it all, but to what degree? I personally like to think that way back, in the vanilla days of WoW, people's playstyles, RP including, were quite a bit different. Perhaps it's like what Claws herself said in a way, that people were a little more lenient in what could and couldn't happen. These days, you can get a lot of people who might go on the offensive at you just for having a particular character concept or idea. Back then however, people usually simply didn't know any better. Perhaps it's the nostalgia inside me talking, but everything was still fresh and unfamiliar. No one was truly a walking Warcraft-encyclopedia just yet, what with the lore being so limited and new, and a lot of people were only just starting to explore the in-game possibilities, as well as RP itself.
In a way, it felt the same with ORB as well. I feel there was more room for silliness and randomness back then, with banter about Oznack's smelly socks and plenty of other, completely wacky, little things to think of, like randomly attacking an Alliance settlement after a Tribe Meeting "just because we can", and having a majority of warriors that fit the bill of "buckethead" a little more than perfectly (I mean, come on, we had orcs screaming "WAAAGH!" for crying out loud).
At the same time, certain other things were more outlined as well. There were the Red Guard who had their very own, specific dresscode, and we had a rule where only they and the active officers were allowed to wear cloaks on their characters. Over time, I have to admit we gave a little more freedom to let orcs wear what they liked. While we still do -encourage- orcs to wear the guild's tabard, wear wolf masks and ride wolf mounts, it's not something we so strictly enforce as we did back then.

And then there's the ranks, of course. And boy, have we seen a lot of those. For those interested, you can always look the old ranks up in the Odds & Ends forum as well as the wiki, though it's suffice to say that we've had a few of them over the past years. Surprisingly enough, less than you might think, however. Another strength of the guild is that we seem to have been fairly consistent in maintaining our concept. Where we had raiders and assassins at one point, we moved on to Nag'Ogar, Varog'Gor and Thur'ruk and stuck with that since, albeit with several expansions of that system. I do, however, still remember attempts to flavour things up as well, like the faction system of Sythegore, Darkwolves and the Seers. A little experiment gone a little wrong in the end, but still a learning experience that I do, in fact, factor into account to this very day when it comes to considering new concepts.


I think I've rambled quite enough for the time being, but I suppose one could sum it all up in the following words: The core and concept has remained very much the same, but the execution thereof has changed several times over the course of the years. We have moved from a guild that did all sorts of wackiness all over Azeroth with a whole lot of freedom to travel from one place to another in little time for the purposes of fun, to a more intricate structure that has adapted to the requirements of an expanding and more demanding RP community that focuses more heavily on the suspension of disbelief. And in a way, that's what kept us going strong over the past several years as well.
And now I will wrap this little text up, because I'm quite sure you may have all fallen asleep by now. I'll be trying to write up a little more personal text involving characters and memorable events involved in the guild for me personally soon, just to add to the already incomprehensible rambling.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Kozgugore on September 11, 2015, 02:29:34 PM

Well, that ended up looking more like an essay than anything else. Sorry about that. My next post involving experiences will (hopefully) be a little more condensed!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Okiba on September 11, 2015, 02:54:07 PM

Rambled essays is gud, we leiks themz.

Moar.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on September 11, 2015, 03:06:08 PM

Quote from: Kozgugore on September 11, 2015, 02:29:34 PM

Well, that ended up looking more like an essay than anything else. Sorry about that. My next post involving experiences will (hopefully) be a little more condensed!

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MXjwTiNCh9Y/T7DuAonjP-I/AAAAAAAABK0/ZbId5wAzqWk/s320/darth-vader-didnt-read.gif)

Seriously though, thanks for your thoughts, and indeed those of the other veterans turning up now. It's interesting to think about how much the atmosphere of the guild has changed over the years, since arguably, although you and Rargnasha each exerted different overall influences on the tribe and its plots, the overall flavour of the guild seems not too different between now and 2011, when I joined.

Admittedly, in those areas where I have been responsible, I'm driven by my usual sentimental conservatism to keep that spirit alive. Not just event style and in casual RP, but smaller things too -- deliberately making the new banners into an updated version of the old ones, rather than doing something different; or looking after the Gallery and the Annals sections.

I loved the guild I joined in 2011, and while things always have to change, I'm at least proud that they're being done in a manner consistent with where we've been. I have felt for a few years now that one of OotRB's strongest assets as a guild is that identity and continuity -- there's a billion generic orc or Horde guilds (indeed, it seems like there's a new one every week), but we have a decade of organic growth and change, which makes the concept more durable and alive than manufacturing a backstory from nothing.

I do agree that overall RP has perhaps become a little too serious and self-aware in recent years. I guess with maturity comes a loss of innocence, and while the current guild strives for immersion and continuity, there's something to be said for wacky orcs running around and causing havoc too. Playing Luk the peon for the month before he was revealed as an evil mastermind was a very pure, simple and enjoyable RP experience -- there was no complex backstory, no angst and drama, no multilayered interpersonal interaction. He asked people for work, they gave him tasks, and he did them! Work-work.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Umaua on September 11, 2015, 03:12:41 PM

Keeping the RP serious and self-aware does not mean humor has to go missing. Or that everything has to be complex.

Usually stories are not that complicated, or have to be.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gruulg on September 11, 2015, 03:21:31 PM

I merely have the urge to......


 ÙF WIDDEM HEADZ!!....


    WAAAGHZ!!!    ;D

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Bamm on September 11, 2015, 11:05:54 PM

Anyways i have been meaning to post here all week but have been on my phone whenever i had the free time and i didn't want to post all my memories using my phone. My typing is bad enough as it is. anyways here are some of my favorite memories

I'll start with my fondest  memory. which is actually one of the first  was the night i did my oath during the rebellion campaign We where in Zoram Gar. Also the battle event we had the next day. Ii attended on my Giest called Munch we were defending the outpost against Kor'kron. and many shenanigans were had.

There was aerial ranged group attacking Pandaren on their flying serpents and Blood elf mages on their dragonhawks. Then there were several group groups all holding the various entry points.  That was the event that made Arkail my main RP character it looked epic, felt epic well to summarize it was epic and something i'll always remember.

Another fond memory is Revax and i learning to dig a snow cave for surival training and  being shouted at by Grogona for not really taking is serious. I dont think we ever did dig a snow cave we gave up and just got drunk and sat in the snow.

All the Kosh'hargs I have attended for all its peaceful good intentions i've never seen one pass without drama and conflict now some might say  'urgh drama'  But looking back it was always good drama for the most part. Rashka's Face breaking incident at one Kosh'harg still makes me giggle

Sadok and Luks storyline during the rebellion as well as Sadok's coming back from the dead an amazing piece of work Sadok the whole arc was brilliant. Your revival ceremony is to this day the strangest rp event i have ever attended and we have had some strange events.
P.S Luk is and always will be my favorite peon/warlock/sheep FoRbe is love FoRbe is life

Trakmar's  improvised dentistry on Sadok another good memory.

All the times we spent in Garadar just chilling around the fire
The time we spent is Gallywix's pleasure palace

Arkail generally being fascinated with Caruk and then thoroughly terrified by his actions. All of them you're a scary shuun of a biatch

Krogon's stories about the his past and describing the tribes past to me. I gobbled that shit up. History nerd for life

All of Rhonya's run ins with the forsaken all of them they where great fun, not for your character of course, but fun to participate in. Rhonya Queen of the damned!

The run up to WoD events. Holding out against the Iron horde in the Blasted lands. In which for the first time Arkail actually got injured. Many hugs and kisses to Kogra for pulling shrapnel out of me and re seting my broken jaw while severely injured herself.

Storming the portal that was also a fun event, getting split up and all meeting up in Frostfire listening to everyone's tales on how they got there and survived Theraks story sticks most in my mind
 
My training as a Gul'thauk. Therak might just be the single most patient Orc in redblade. I would have kicked my arse outta training for sheer laziness :P

They're the big ones i could ramble on and on about various events. But i'll stop.
Heres to ten more years of Red Blade!

(http://i.imgur.com/bQURX58.gif)

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gnash on September 15, 2015, 02:49:50 PM

I'm speaking from the heart so apologies in advance if at some point this post results into the ravings of a nostalgic sonovagun.

Understandably, the most applause here is being given to the orcs who organize events, and rightfully so. Still, I want to make a shout out to some of the more obscure orcs that really managed to add to the atmosphere during my glory days in ORB.

Orgash: Thickest and coolest blackrock on the block. An orc who measured everything by honor and dishonor, which caused quite a lot of tension because he was also stubborn as fuck.

Saurok/Nekrul: He was Saurok before Saurok became a thing in MoP, which probably makes him the first orc hipster. I still remember his oath of blood fondly, in which he carved up his own face, giving himself a Glasgow smile.

My favorite events include the Arathi war (no idea which one, since there have been so many) in which Gnash headed to the gates of Stromgarde alone and planted a banner there as a challenge. Three Arathorians rode up to him and accepted his challenge to combat -- imagine my surprise when I actually managed to kill all of them in PvP (I should say wound, shouldn't I?).

Another event I am proud of in retrospect (I hated doing it at the time) was the path of conquest storyline in Cataclysm, in which we basically turned the whole of Kalimdor in a PvP map. I felt gutted at the time, because it was so much work and I basically coordinated the thing on my own (and I was far to stubborn to let anybody help!) in our faction. It ended up being a bit too deep, with battle objectives and alternate scenarios depending on the outcome of battles. In the end, I'm glad I tried it. I wouldn't do it again, but I'm glad I tried!

I haven't been part of ORB for a while now, but I try to check what you're all up to from time to time. I'll always be grateful of ORB because you all tried to push your RP further, while also respecting those who are still learning the ropes. Because of people like Morgeth, Mazguul, Kozgugore, Sadok, and many more, I've always tried to improve myself in my RP, to try and reach their standards of RP. It rubs off on people, is what I'm trying to say. And, moreover, without the risk of the guild turning into an auto-fellating-elitist-clique -- the orcs are a grounded people, after all!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Lars on September 15, 2015, 03:53:21 PM

Quote from: Gnash on September 15, 2015, 02:49:50 PM

And, moreover, without the risk of the guild turning into an auto-fellating-elitist-clique -- the orcs are a grounded people, after all!

We're too busy doing each other for that ever to happen <3

And miss your angry forehead! (... even if I don't play myself anymore)

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Azolg on September 15, 2015, 11:02:34 PM

Quote

Playing Luk the peon for the month before he was revealed as an evil mastermind was a very pure, simple and enjoyable RP experience -- there was no complex backstory, no angst and drama, no multilayered interpersonal interaction. He asked people for work, they gave him tasks, and he did them! Work-work.

Sadoks death, Luks arrival, Luks reveal and the consequent resurrection arc was without a doubt some of the best writing/RPing i've ever in this game. It was a joy to be a part of.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Akesha on September 21, 2015, 04:26:29 PM

I've just reread the whole of this thread.

Rehbande, those are some names that bring back memories. I think it's fair to say that in the early days of the guild, we really didn't know much about the lore and just made things up. The way that the guild's background and lore evolved as we learned more of the official lore probably worked to our advantage. I doubt I could have come up with Kraag the Wolf King and Akesh the Poisoner if I'd sat down to write it all from day 1. In fact I can remember the day when we discovered that there was a quest in TBC that gave out wolf masks and a few of us talking about how cool it would be if we all got wolf masks. The lore was written to justify it  ;D

Kozgugore, I never actually thought about how young you were when you took over, I just think I made a choice based on the talent I could see. It's funny how the person behind the orc can be very different from the character in game. I've always avoided talking about myself, except for a few little details. I'd rather not break the immersion and relate to the orc in front of me, rather than the person I know is behind it. For me this is the best part about MMO RP as opposed to pen and paper RP. When I'm talking to an orc, I feel like I'm talking to an orc far more if it's not just a friend, sitting across a table from me and pretending to talk like an orc. That's just me though, and probably my way of hinting that I'm nothing like Akesh irl  ;D

As one of the guild's newest recruits  ;) I have to say how impressed I am by what I've seen. I think I've got a lot to relearn and I'm looking forward to it.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Vezara on September 21, 2015, 06:04:02 PM

Oh wow, it's going to be hard for me to remember all the stuff I've experienced and the people I've met during my stay in the tribe, but I will do my best to recall some good stuff.. apologies in advance if you feel left out. :P I must say I already agree with a lot of stuff people have already said in their posts, so instead of writing something near-identical to everyone else, I'll just tell about why I joined, what the tribe and such means to me I guess. xD

Ye Olde Story of how I joined:

Back in Wrath of the Lich King I had barely done any RP except from some very silly noob-y RP with me and my friend's guild (Violent Coffin Builders). At the time I was mostly playing my undead characters and were just doing PvE and BGs, but sometimes I'd get small glimpses into the "RP world" here and there. One of the most memorable moments were the 2-3 times I saw Morgeth and Kozgugore RPing in Dalaran, and I found myself standing there reading their conversations each time. I suddenly found myself interested in RP again, and started thinking about giving it another try. I ended up looking at this very forum for info about the guild, to see if it would be anything for me and I remember being very intimidated by the fact that the guild chat was IC. x)

After some consideration, I decided to race change my inactive level 62 troll male shaman into an orc female. At first, the idea was to go orc male, but having seen Morgeth RP I felt really inspired to try an orc female, since I thought she was the coolest female orc I had ever seen, and I had never really played a female character before. After changing however, I felt too intimated to apply to ORB right away, and decided to level while trying out random RP here and there first. At some point, an old friend of mine from TBC returned to the game on an orc character he had in the guild (Vargosh) and he encouraged me to come join one of the ORB events in Wetlands, which I ended up doing and had fun, despite being terrified of everyone. XD

Vargosh kept asking me to join, but I was very insecure about my RP so I kept making excuses to wait longer, even though I really really wanted to join. While leveling in Storm Peaks some time later I ran into another orc from the tribe, Orgash, who was also leveling in the area. He saw my FlagRSP (or whatever it was called?) and whispered me, asking if I wanted to RP with him while leveling, I figured it would be a nice way to gain further RP experience, and it turned out to be lots of fun! Like Vargosh, he kept asking me to apply, and eventually I decided to just go for it. I talked to Vargosh and was told to come to Hellfire Peninsula, where the guild was staying at the time, and I approached Rargnasha ICly to show my interest for the guild. This lead to probably one of the worst things I ever said as Vez ever in RP. (Something Rarg liked to remind me of. D: ) After the interview, I was directed at the forums and made the worst application in the history of applications and even had to edit it because Rarg thought it was too short. xD (I made up her entire past just as I was writing the application. >.>) Afterwards I was invited to join, and my adventure begain!

I've learned a lot during my stay in ORB and I'll always be grateful for the patience and guidance y'all had for a shitty RPer like me. Thanks to you, I became a better RPer, I had many fun moments and I got a lot of new friends. :D

Memorable Moments:

-Every single "Backwards Drunken Race" event I've been a part of. So much fun!
-The hilarious but failed attempts to burn Garashna's dead wolf in Howling Fjord.
-When Vargnor was killed by a level 8 boar outside Orgrimmar after a duel. (We probably made fun of him waaaay too much because of that)
-Trailer making! I've been part of... 3 so far? They've all been... interesting experiences. xD
-Gnash's funeral, when Morgeth mentioned how all the "gobbo whores" in Booty Bay would miss him.
-The times we had BG groups while skyping.
-Everything that happend in the "She-orc Hut".
-All of the amazing WPvP we had in the old days.
-Morgeth looking at Vez and Mazguul's chests, then looking down on her own, and letting out an annoyed sigh, during a lineup in an event.
-The tasks Mazguul gave Vez during her training after becoming Gosh'kar.
-Lots of other things, but the list would be too long, and honestly I am having a hard time remembering any more spesific moments. :P

Favourite/Memorable Characters:

As much as I'd like to make massive wall of texts to each of the characters mentioned below, it would make the list way too long. That said, I'd like to point out that everyone in the tribe are awesome people, I just wanted to mention the people I consider the most special/memorable. :)

-Morgeth
-Kozgugore
-Mazguul
-Krogon
-Rargnasha
-Orgash
-Shrika
-Sadok
-Gnash
-Srelok
-Rhonya
-Kogra
-Thazzrill
-Grunnak
-Grek'thar
-Regorn
-Luk

I probably forgot someone, because I am terrible at remembering names. :|

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Thrash'Nak on September 21, 2015, 06:22:20 PM

So, i got a mail in the spam section, and was surprised to see a message from.. who else? Orcs of the red blade! Obviousely my intrest peaked since it has been well over... 2 years? Since i stopped playing, 1 and a half since i stopped roleplaying. (Correct me if i'm wrong, i may be exxagerating!) Anyway, naturally i had to look in and after a few posts i couldn't stop reading. And Akesha, even though you've not the slightest idea of whom i am, i want you to know i have a deep respect for you, being the founder of this wonderful guild. So the kudoest of the kudos to you.

And i'm sorry, this will also be a wall of text!

Anyway, to get to it:

Your favourite OotRB characters, and the people behind them!

Boy, this list is damned long. Everyone on this list i've had ups and downs with, fortunately i can personally say i remember the best and fondests momments better than the worsts, but i won't dwell into that. I won't go alphabeaticly into it, as i'm writing the memorries down as i remember them:

Rhonya.
Nadine is a wonderful, lovely, and simply one of the kindests individuals I've ever encountered in this game. I've always enjoyed your (if not sometimes frustating but.. ) super creative plots, drawings (Especially stick-man Grogona "Rarrw"), stories and costumes. In-game, Rhonya became Grogonas sister, something that I've enjoyed tons. Even though i quit in a brutal fashion, i'll always remember the times we've had together. Thank you. :)

Rargnasha
Rargnasha, i doubt you're reading the forums, but if you do. I'll always love bacon way more than you do, it's not a contest, it's just down to earth a fact. You're a bud.  ;)

Gridish
Oh, bud.. where do i begin? There were times that we were so busy laughing our asses off over south park STAAAAANNN, S-STAAANN. That we forgot to do our event plots. Gridish and Grogona shared a friendship that was strong. Our laughs i miss, i won't deny it. Thank you bud. ;)

Gashuk
Lots of arena and "h-how.. and.. w-where did you blast him off too?". I can say your character was one of the more interesting ones for Grogona. Thank you for the roleplay. :)

Krogon
You trained Grogona, and while she ended up being a dick to Krogon, there always was a respect behind the rebel. Thank you for your time in planning the training, while i may not have said it enough. Thank you.

Kogra/your troll, i'm so sorry i don't remember his name. :<
Kogra and me go back to before Oorb, same as Rhonya. We were both relatively new in SGE and we both hit it off pretty quickly. Many moments later and i think you're one of the best friends i've gotten out of WoW. Thank you so much. :)

Therak
You're pretty much on everyones list. So i won't say much other than Therak is -the- most interesting character I've ever seen and you should be proud. Thank you.

Trakmar
I agree, we got along well from the start, even though you stink at Pvp. ;) The hours and hours of Roleplay that we had, was amazing. And i'll let myself get girly here, the emotional rollercoaster it was. I was surprised at how hard it was the loose someone fictional, someone in-game, created out of imagination, and i think we both share that. Grogona and Trakmar were brother and sister through fire and water. I'll never forget the moments, even though in the end, there were disagreements. Thank you.

Keishara
Buddy.. Get ready. :)
The most important person, and character of my -entire- story with Oorb, is without doubt Keishara. The slight contest constantly going on who was the strongests, and who would reach Nag'ogar first, and once they both reached it, the aim just got higher, who's the first Rrosh'tul. Mud-wrestling, dueling, and just countless hours of RP. I'll not lie that i often looked at the roster and I couldn't wait until that damned name popped up so i could shout in the orc chat. "ROWLPLAH NAOW!". I'll never never forget how it all started.. and how it ended. I won't go into detail cause damnit, it's rough.. So thank you, buddy. :)

Your favourite events, plots, storylines or even spontaneous encounters!:
Boy, it's been a while, it's abit hazy. Every Kosh'harg.
And obviousely every war that made us feel like the green brutes that we were. Axe and totem in hand storming towards our enemy, and obviousely crushing them with our strength. It has been a few "Holy- summer pudding, did we make this? LOOK AT HOW MANY PLAYERS THERE ARE." I felt proud so many times, just to be a member of this guild.

Guilds and individuals outside of Oorb.

Moneyfix! I doubt he reads the forums, so i won't write much. Much laugh, much gold, much wauw. Thank you. :)

What OotRB meant to you over the years, and if you're no longer with us, what you're up to now:

Oorb, has done both amazing, and horrible things for me. Whilst in this guild, I isolated myself pretty much 100% from a social life, wow had become my life, i did basicly nothing else, despite how much my loved ones tried to rip myself from it. It's only now that i realise that playing this game, you have to set boundaries, and whatever you do, you -cannot- let it be your life. But on the bright side, this game has done so much good for me. In the life before Wow, i had no friends, i could barely talk to anyone, and when i did i would lie about everything to make myself appear cooler than i was. Oorb fixed that right up. So while it took away years of my life (Not in a negative way) it also fixed something i didn't know was broken. So yeah, this post has gotten abit emotional. But all in all i wanna thank you all, from the bottom of my heart. And I also want to say sorry for the way i parted. And if i come back, I hope you'll accept me back, i sure as hell miss the hell out of this guild. :)

I'll just briefly describe what i'm doing at the moment. I'm currently at the very end of my very long education as a web-integrator. Currently dwelling into asp, sql and C#. I FINALLY god damnit, moved out, living by myself in a small appartment. And to top it all off, employment the moment i'm completely educated. So life is pretty damned good right now.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gashuk on September 21, 2015, 06:39:09 PM

Grogona! :( Come back. I miss you. It cannot have been 2 years already! No way!

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Sadok on October 08, 2015, 01:46:28 PM

And the day is today! Happy tenth anniversary, Orcs of the Red Blade! 8/10/05-8/10/15.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Okiba on October 08, 2015, 03:24:37 PM

Happy 10th Birthday Red Blades! Have a great night and best of luck with the years to come. Missing you all a lot, remember to post screenies from tonights event and others for us inactive/long gone folks! we like a nosey. Perhaps even some IC story's from orcs reflecting on the last ten years? ;o What!? have a great night.

Spoiler: show

(http://orcsoftheredblade.com/forum/gallery/292_21_09_15_10_05_26.jpg)

Spoiler: show

(http://orcsoftheredblade.com/forum/gallery/292_21_09_15_10_06_07.jpg)

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gruulg on October 08, 2015, 04:22:08 PM

Congratulations!  ;D

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Typhek on October 08, 2015, 08:24:23 PM

'appy berfday orcses!

/salute

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gruulg on October 08, 2015, 10:03:56 PM

 ;D

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gruulg on October 08, 2015, 10:21:01 PM

...

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Azolg on February 24, 2017, 01:29:35 AM

Just spent a solid half an hour reading through these replies. In light of the recent poll and potential guilds hiatus/closure, figured i'd give this a necro bump for anyone else who wants to look back with fond, nostalgic memories.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Rhonya on March 01, 2017, 07:28:32 PM

Thought I'd write something up, now it's official... I've not known what to write for a long time, hence my silence around this subject since it was brought up.

First of all, I'm really heartbroken about this. I know things always come to an end, but that doesn't take any of the sting away for me. I've been in this guild for a long time now and it's the guild I've been in the longest by far, with my two most active characters by far. Over 70+ stories have been written about Rhonya and Kyrazha and everyone involved, a lot of drawings I've made that were inspired by characters and this guild. In the years I've been here, I've almost never took a break from the game, so I can safely say this guild and it's orcs have been a big part of my life the past decade.

I'll miss the stories we created, the characters, the good times and the bad, the people. I'll still be on wow, but now my two major characters have no where to go anymore, I'm not entirely sure yet what to do or where to continue.

So.. Yeah. I'm still a bit lost for words, but I suppose I'll sum it up with a big thank you all. You've made my life a lot more interesting. And I'll miss it, very very much.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Claws on March 02, 2017, 08:23:22 PM

Quote from: Rhonya on March 01, 2017, 07:28:32 PM

Thought I'd write something up, now it's official... I've not known what to write for a long time, hence my silence around this subject since it was brought up.

First of all, I'm really heartbroken about this. I know things always come to an end, but that doesn't take any of the sting away for me. I've been in this guild for a long time now and it's the guild I've been in the longest by far, with my two most active characters by far. Over 70+ stories have been written about Rhonya and Kyrazha and everyone involved, a lot of drawings I've made that were inspired by characters and this guild. In the years I've been here, I've almost never took a break from the game, so I can safely say this guild and it's orcs have been a big part of my life the past decade.

I'll miss the stories we created, the characters, the good times and the bad, the people. I'll still be on wow, but now my two major characters have no where to go anymore, I'm not entirely sure yet what to do or where to continue.

So.. Yeah. I'm still a bit lost for words, but I suppose I'll sum it up with a big thank you all. You've made my life a lot more interesting. And I'll miss it, very very much.

:-*
Second what you have said I can not write more at this time

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Gruulg on March 03, 2017, 05:17:10 PM

Thx for everything you guys  *wave*    :'(

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Thrash'Nak on March 10, 2017, 10:29:23 AM

Holy shit, just read the news. Hope everyone's okay, hope everyone's most importantly, still having fun.

It has been some great years, wauw.. actually, some really great years, and i am sad to say, i don't talk to the friends i made, even nearly enough. I sincerly hope everyone, that i remotely made friends with, is okay, and is generally happy with their lives. And of course everyone else as well. All good to you all, and the very best of luck to you all.

As a last note, Thank you to the leaders, that made my time in the guild an experience I will remember.

Kind regards:
Grogona

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Groshnok on March 12, 2017, 04:31:45 AM

Might as well post something here I suppose!

Three years and four months I've been with this guild and I've had some of the most fun memories in my life here. I had always wanted to try roleplaying, and I remember the day I decided to join the Red Blades, I was choosing between here and the Shatterskull Marauders back in November of 2013. I'm confident when I say I made the right choice joining here.

Groshnok Gorewrath (or Blackrend, back then) started out as many first time roleplayers start their character. A typical honour-loving buckethead. It's the basic character type after all! I'll always remember the day he became an oathbound of the tribe, mainly because it actually fell on my 16th birthday, November 25th. Back then it was intimidating navigating the social waters of the tribe, considering there would often be over 20-25 people around. But eventually I settled into things. I remember having a running gag where he'd constantly be injured during events, which in hindsight probably got pretty annoying for healers. (sorry Rhonya  :P) I remember him becoming a Nag'Ogar the same day as Nograx in the Bloodgulch of the Twilight Highlands. A position where I stayed in until just before WoD where he got demoted, and then promoted back to a few months later. Around early-mid 2014 as I started getting better at roleplaying, I realised how boring it is playing the honourable buckethead. So I began to slowly change his character taking some inspiration from others, mainly Krogon and Trakmar, and later Kyrazha. I began to mould him into the complete opposite of the character, an ale swilling sociopath who didn't care for the concept of honour. I'm happy with how I retconned his story into him using a facade to join the tribe and letting it slip away, rather than awkwardly reset his character.

One of my fondest memories was definitely in May of 2014, with the Redridge campaign. The RP-PvP in there was one of the best times I've ever had playing a video game. It felt really brutal with the prisoner taking, torture, executions, all that. It was thrilling, and just a whole lot of good fun. In fact that whole summer was great RP. All irl bitterness aside from the two guilds, the Bolts-Blades rivalry was great to be in the middle of during that time period. Just glad I wasn't caught up in the OOC politics of stuff  ;D

Then with WoD was the whole messy drama of moving to AD and all that, but it was absolutely amazing to me to walk around Orgrimmar and RP with random people in the Valley of Honour, something that had never really happened on Defias Brotherhood aside from when the Flying Bolts would be in the tavern. It really was good. Of course, Warlords brought shit RP situations with it, and my interest soon began to wane. I remember after 2 years of constant, every day roleplaying that I just burned out in 2015. My character had become stagnant, and try as I might I didn't have the time to advance him. Though the hiatus left me with good ideas which I began in bringing back bits of Groshnok's past to flesh him out. And then as Legion approached, I think we all saw the writings on the walls. RP was dying, and people just didn't have the time anymore. I'm in my second year of university now and since Legion my activity has waned in phases. I don't have the time anymore, between assignments and just preferring to socialise with friends. But the Red Blades will always have a place in my heart. This guild was literally my life for two whole years. I never did get to become Rrosh-tul (planning events is fun, but as someone with ADHD it's hard as hell to concentrate on rolls for people, and it bores me easily) but I found that the character suited well as Nag'Ogar. Groshnok was never a leader, just someone who enjoyed battle and succumbing to bloodlust.

I'm happy with how my character ended up. I've pumped three and a half years into making him and I'm satisfied with his end result. I plan to finish the story Rabid Wolf before the site is taken offline and saving my work if I resurface the character at some point. I have wanted to kill him off at points, but was never able to find a satisfying way to do it. I never wanted a glorious death for him as it didn't suit the character. But yeah, that's about it for me. It's sad to see the guild die off but it was going to happen at some stage. Eleven and a half years is a fantastic achievement for a roleplaying guild to make. But as life goes, we all grow up, we all get responsibilities, and in the end we all have to move on. Maybe we'll see eachother again, with different characters, or in different guilds. I'm just glad I spent three and a half years in this one. It was one hell of a ride, but one I enjoyed immensely.



Highlights of my time here

Becoming Nag'Ogar at the time when the guild had none.

The Redridge Campaign which I've mentioned in detail above.

The Siege of Shadowmoon Village an event that had over 20 orcs split into different packs defending the village for over an hour from all sides. Really well co-ordinated and a satisfying conclusion to a campaign which gave a very interesting dynamic, that we could not use the spirit link to communicate due to the fel corruption.

Flying Bolts/Red Blades Rivalry which I've mentioned above. Was even more fun with Groshnok being close with members of the Bolts but remaining loyal to the tribe even though he hated Rargnasha Bloodmark.

The Mokh'tar/Lo'Gush/Shrika... Thing It was a mess, sure, but a fun mess! Brought conflict during a time of boring peace, and deepened the hatred that Groshnok had for Mokh'tar.

The Interactions Between Groshnok and Therak Duskstalker What started from Groshnok not helping Therak during him being set on fire, at one point I was sure he was actually going to be killed off by Therak  ;D. Their dislike of each other was always something I found really fun to roleplay with.

The Guild Working Together to get the Garn Nighthowls A really fun few weeks of co-operation which culminated with a great event in which the tribe was unified after regrouping with their new half-garns.

Getting Tortured by the Warlock What a fun bonding experience for Kogra and Groshnok, and also what a fun time for the tribe as the pair tried to murder the tribe while mind controlled. Groshnok still hasn't forgiven Shrewd for biting off his toes...

Sadok's Northrend Campaign during Warlords Very different from the norm, but in a good way! Some really creative events such as the time we all dressed in cult robes and were mind controlled into three things based on a 1-3 roll, swapping personalities, becoming suicidal or falling madly in love with the nearest person. It to this day remains one of my favourite Red Blades campaigns.

Killing Kradak Fistfist HOLY FUCK WAS THAT SATISFYING JESUS CHRIST ALMIGHTY I WAS SO HAPPY TO SPLIT THAT FUCKERS SKULL OPEN

The Death of Krogon Devilstep An event which Groshnok used to gloat his philosophy that he would always preach. "Honour... honour gets ye' killed."

Groshnok Becoming More Loyal to the Tribe for a lot of the time spent roleplaying Groshnok held disdain for many of the elders such as Rhonya and Rargnasha, and really only stayed due to having security for himself, his mate Rashka and their cub. However as Kozgugore became chieftain again Groshnok began to start gaining more loyalty to the tribe, eventually culminating in...

The Legion Pre Event Though small, Groshnok did his best to make sure the remnants of the tribe in Ashenvale stuck together, as many Oathbounds talked of leaving to go help the Horde forces. It was fun to roleplay as an Iron Shield in the sense of making sure the tribe didn't break apart.




People I'd like to thank

First and foremost I'd like to thank everyorc for the RP. It was so much fun. I'd also like to thank you guys for providing a bit of support during my ma's death last summer. All of you are really wonderful people.

Gridish and Grogona - Used to have a hell of a fun time talking to you two back when the tribe had a teamspeak server for a few months. I also really enjoyed roleplaying the friendship between Gridish and Groshnok, one of the few friendships he held with another tribesorc.

Gashuk - Always seemed to have interesting conversations with Groshnok during RP, usually about the state of the tribe. Has been fun from the start, especially during the Flying Bolts saga with the whole thing with Nograx.

Trakmar - Though the pair would never truly get on, I feel in the end they started to respect each other a bit more. Always had fun roleplaying with the character.

Rhonya - Kyrazha gave me a lot of inspiration to delve deeper into the Stranglethorn roots I'd set for the character. If it wasn't for her I doubt Groshnok's past would be as fleshed out as it is. I also really enjoyed the late night campfire chats that Rhonya and Groshnok would have.

Kogra - Goddamn did you do a hell of a job trying to keep things alive. I also really enjoyed the time they had together during the recovery from being mind controlled by the warlock in Gorgrond.

Krogon - Really had fun with the clashing of beliefs that the pair would have constantly, yet in the end they still held a mutual respect for each other as fighters. Groshnok still carries the blade he gave him in his will.

Sadok - For having a great ability to get even the most timid of RPers in the tribe to socialise, and also for having a great ability for event making. You carrying the tribe during the Northrend campaign was a hell of a lot of fun. The finale of killing the Lich was great, and it remains one of my favourite campaigns. One of my favourite people to RP with just from the way a conversation would not get dull. His covering up of insecurities with humour resonated with Groshnok a lot.

Kozgugore - For being a great chieftain and someone who I had fun with Groshnok finally respecting authority from. Shrewd does not get a thank you until Groshnok's two smallest toes from his right foot are returned.

And finally Rashka - The person who I spent the most time roleplaying with during my time in the guild. The pair always had a great relationship, albeit fucked up at times, but they always had eachothers backs. You have become one of my best friends in real life.



I'm sure there's plenty who I've missed up there, please don't bomb my house. My brains a bit fried and tired atm so if I remember some more I'll stick em up. But to all of you, thank you so much for the past three years and four months. It's been a wonderful time that I'll never forget. I hope someday some of us will meet again on the fields of roleplay. Until then, Gug'ye.



Groshnok Gorewrath drains his last mug of ale.

Title: Re: Ten Years Strong: Memories
Post by: Morgeth on March 16, 2017, 09:41:00 PM

<3