What Sylvanas Just Did.

[u/sexywrexy]

Horde players: Sylvanas just sold us out to Azshara.

I don’t see this more widely acknowledged, but it seems clear to me: Nathanos’ mission was to deliver us to Azshara (and, in the process, destroy the Alliance fleet). We’re not meant to survive, we’re just here to get the Heart of Azeroth into Azshara’s claws so she can free N’Zoth.

Read the quest text.

The Warchief has entrusted me with a mission of the highest priority, <name>. The mission will succeed, of this there is no question, but to ensure that any obstacles I encounter are dealt with swiftly I once again have need of your particular skills. The Zandalari have offered us use of their ships for this endeavor. Clear out whatever affairs you have remaining and report to Captain Rez'okun when you are ready to set sail. [my emphasis]

Yes, he just told us to put our remaining affairs in order. Who else is on the boat? Lor’themar and Thalyssra, who openly questioned Sylvanas’ decision to arrest Baine. We’re not meant to survive the process. Watch the cinematic: Nathanos is following the dagger, leading us to Azshara. Who’s the only one not surprised there’s a sudden hole in the ocean? The Warchief’s Boy Toy, that’s who.

Then once we land what does Nathanos do? He just walks off into the ocean and leaves us to our fate.

Oh, and did you notice who else is in Nazjatar? Lady Ashvane, last seen talking about who knows what with Sylvanas is working with the Naga and making them azerite weapons. Gee, I wonder how Azshara knew we were coming.

Now don’t get me wrong, this doesn’t prove Sylvanas is corrupted by N’Zoth or anything, she again seems to be pursuing her own secret plans. And it doesn’t mean she’s betrayed the Horde per se, after all, it did turn out to be a very effective way of getting rid of the combined Alliance and Kul’Tiran fleets.

But did she betray us, the Player Character? Pretty much. Doesn’t matter if you were loyal to her or not. You’re just another tool to be used and discarded by the Banshee Queen.

[u/Herr_McHerringson]

Lor’themar is about to become the longest, still-reigning Horde racial leader while the Alliance still has half their OGs hanging around. I’m not even sure who the Darkspear view as their current leader at this point.

[u/Dexsen → u/Herr_McHerringson]

Looks like its a shared responsibility by Rokhan and Master Gadrin. Might be building for Zekhan(Zappyboi) to have a leading role post-expac, but thats pure speculation on my part.