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World of Warcraft
Peek #1
The Horde encompasses four diverse species. The
ferocious Orcs arrived in Azeroth against their
will, torn away from their distant home world,
Draenor. One of their chiefs saved the Darkspear
tribe of Trolls from annihilation, an act that led
to an enduring alliance. As a rule, the brawny,
bull-like Tauren belie their appearance, being
peaceful and dedicated to preserving the natural
order. However, they do become daunting foes when
angered or aroused. All three are aligned against a
common enemy, the Lich King. In this one regard,
they share an interest with the Undead, who
otherwise follow their own agenda.
In Blizzard's World of Warcraft, the Alliance also
consists of four races. The Dwarves of Azeroth
originated in the frozen region of Khaz Modan. Once
disinclined to leave their mountain citadel,
Ironforge, they now search far and wide for signs of
their ancient beginnings. They've always been close
to their Gnomish cousins, and have become even more
so since the latter were driven from their home
city. Both have strong ties with the Humans, while
the reclusive Night Elves prefer staying apart
despite having mutual interests and enemies. This
feature shows us an event the two factions will soon
enjoy.
Includes 17 exclusive 1920x1414 screenshots
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Lunar Festival - History
The Lunar Festival is a time of celebration. The
people of Azeroth celebrate their triumph of many
thousands of years ago, when an alliance of good
races (Night Elves, Tauren and Earthen - a proto-Dwarven
race) defeated a terrible evil. It is also a time of
remembrance for the valor and wisdom of that ancient
age.
Omen, defeated so many centuries ago, yet remains in
Lake Elune'ara... During the Lunar Festival, he
stirs... and heroes of the land are called to defeat
him once again.
The demi-god Omen was a being of great strength and
knowledge. Blessed by Elune, Omen wandered
primordial Kalimdor, guiding hunters and gatherers
and offering luck and advice to all he met. When the
Burning Legion launched their attack, Omen allied
with Azeroth's defenders. Omen fought bravely, but
after many battles, his wounds from demonic forces
plunged him into a deep, dreaming sleep... where fel-inspired
nightmares slowly consumed him. When he finally
awoke, centuries later, he had fallen to madness.
Lunar Festival fireworks
The transformed Omen rampaged. No longer a creature
of wisdom - but still possessing the strengh of
Elune's blessing - he tore through the land, killing
and devouring. Terror rode before him, and death
trailed in his wake.
Omen's spree of horror ended when a coterie of
ancient heroes gathered in the village of Nighthaven
and faced the beast. They called down the moon's
wrath and Omen, blinded and stunned by the power of
the moon goddess, fled into the deep waters of Lake
Elune'ara. That day marked the end of his rampage,
and symbolized a new beginning for the people of
Azeroth, and the followers of Elune.
It's a celebration
Elder ghosts
Today, the Lunar Festival is held by the druids of
Nighthaven. Both the Horde and Alliance are welcomed
to celebrate and shoot fireworks - a symbol of
Elune's power. Ancient heroes of the past also
appear throughout the land, offering gifts to those
who find and honor them.
It is a time of happiness, fortune and celebration,
but it has a deeper motive as well...
Night Elf in Chinese attire
Lunar Festival in Moonglade
Omen, defeated so many centuries ago, yet remains in
Lake Elune'ara. Although driven insane by the
Burning Legion, the demi-god still possesses Elune's
blessing and is, hence, immortal. During the Lunar
Festival, he stirs... and heroes of the land are
called to defeat him once again..
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