The Scrimshanders

[Taeghen-argent-dawn (Taeghen)]

The Scrimshanders

Definition of scrimshander
1 : scrimshaw
2 : a person who creates scrimshaw

Scrimshaw is the name given to scrollwork, engravings, and carvings done in bone or ivory.

The Scrimshanders are a paramilitary Alliance group acting against the Forsaken (and anyone else in the way) on the western seaboard of the north Eastern Kingdoms region – Silverpine, Gilneas, Tirisfal, Kul Tiras, and perhaps even further afield. Their goals are simple – to provide strategic assistance to the Alliance in eliminating various threats, most notably the remnants of the Forsaken, and to ensure the taint of necromancy is thoroughly and completely removed from the Eastern Kingdoms. This latter mission may pit them against stranger foes, in stranger climes, but their main place and purpose is definitely at the heart of the fight in Lordaeron.

The guild aims to offer something with camaraderie and ardor, yet flexibility and purpose as well. Relying upon covert strikes and pinpoint precision, the Scrimshanders certainly have much to offer the heterodox, the cunning, and the clever. Whether it is tracking Forsaken spies, carving into Horde supply lines, or sowing distrust between rival practitioners of dark magic, the battle is endless and the tasks varied in their nature.

As such, most classes and races work just fine! There are a few exceptions, however. Necromancy, being loathed with a deep and abiding passion, prohibits Death Knights. Lightforged and most Paladins, while respected, may find themselves unsuitable for the work, though not always. In contrast, Void Elves are acceptable, but any sign of succumbing to the Void or to the allure of necromancy will probably result in a quick demise. Lastly, Warlocks and Demon Hunters are far too associated with corrupt magic to be welcomed, though unusual or reforming demonologists might be accepted. The guild’s attitude to combat certainly synergises well with the Illidari, but not much else does.

In terms of theme, there’s a strong question of vengeance – and the lengths individuals might go to accomplish their goals. Much of what the Scrimshanders do is morally right, or at least done against those who are morally repugnant, but doing fairly brutal things to terrible people is hardly a pleasant path. And yet there is also an element of freedom and hope, thematically – that the war may yet be won, and that by skirting the edge, the darkness may yet be driven back. Grimly optimistic is a good watchword.

FAQ

What makes this guild stand out? Why should I apply here, and not to another guild with similar themes?

Certainly, there are similarities to “fer the nerth” guilds, covert ops guilds, etc. But also differences. The Scrimshanders’ specific focuses give the guild more direction, and the prospect for long-term plots that spring neither out of specific missions (as with covert ops) nor personal politics (as is often the case with northern guilds). Instead, these plots grow out of ideological purpose, and the demands thereof. With the way BFA is shaping up, the guild (and the individuals who comprise it) have flexibility to grow and adapt in ways other guilds might struggle to cope with. The intent is to pick up and make use of what works, and discard the rest.

How is the guild structured?

Given the loose affiliations and flexibility of the Scrimshanders, the ranking is a flatter and broader hierarchy than is common, but it goes essentially like this for membership:

New Meat ( those who have yet to survive a full engagement/mission )
Blooded ( those who have indeed survived a full engagement/mission )
Bone Carvers ( veterans, full members worthy of engagement and respect )

Descending in order of importance.

Those in positions of greater authority:

Flensers ( Entrusted with a handful of others – capable of working down to the bone, so the others may continue )
Renderers ( Taking the fat off the bone and working it into something useful – seconds in command, specialist advisers, et cetera )

And of course, the leader.

Hi there.

Are there any OOC guild policies of which I should be aware upon joining?

Easy summary: don’t be a dick, don’t interfere in other people’s RP without asking if it’s okay, and don’t stick “Not a DK Icly” in your RP profile.

Who do I contact for further, more specific questions, and/or joining?

The easiest person to talk to is definitely me, but you can contact any senior member - just ask who the highest ranking person currently online is. If you can’t find anyone, send me an OOC letter detailing your interest. I’ll be sure to add you and reply ASAP. In terms of IC justification, we can either approach you, or you can approach us - an IC letter works either way, or perhaps we might know of your character’s exploits and seek you out!

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Further questions are welcome, and can be added to the FAQ.

We can be found on the Argent Archives, because apparently, screw external links.

…yes I had to repost this on the new forums. Be nice.

[Theremistra-argent-dawn (Theremistra)]

I’ve said if before and I’ll say it again: let’s tango sometime