The Story of the Pandaren Starting Area

By DiscordianKitty Updated: 2021/09/15

The Wandering IslePandarenPandarenThe Wandering IsleShrouded in fog for ages, the ancient realm of Pandaria has remained unspoiled by war. Now that it has been rediscovered, Pandaren heroes are stepping forward to declare their allegiance to either the Alliance or the Horde. The most adventurous of the Pandaren come from the Wandering Island, a mysterious land cut off from the rest of Azeroth and Pandaria itself.

Quick facts:

The Wandering Isle is the Pandaren starting area.
It was first introduced in Mists of Pandaria.
The events in this zone have never changed. They are set during the beginning of Mists of Pandaria.
This area used to become inaccessible once a Pandaren left it. However, a version of it acts as the Legion Class Order Hall for Monks
It is impossible to leave this zone early. Finishing the story is the only way out.

Lore Related to The Wandering Isle

Read more about the stories of the starting zones of the other original races:
Orc, Undead, Tauren, Troll, Blood Elf, Goblin, Human, Dwarf, Night Elf, Gnome, Draenei, and Worgen.

The Wandering Isle Summary

As a Pandaren of The Wandering Isle, your island home rests on the back of a giant turtle named Shen-Zin Su. You find your home in a crisis when Shen-Zin Su begins to move erratically, and you need to gather the spirits of the four elements to help you communicate with your giant friend. Along the way, you learn about two major schools of philosophy, the Tushui, who believe in discipline and meditation, and the Huojin, who believe in swift action. You gather the spirits and speak to Shen-Zin Su, who tells you that he is wounded - by an airship that's flown into his side! As you work to remove the airship and save your home, you meet and work with strangers from both the Alliance and the Horde. You save your home, but now you must choose... which faction will you join?

The Full Story of The Wandering Isle

You are a Pandaren, and while others of your race enjoy a peaceful life, you are from The Wandering Isle, and the spirit of adventure burns in your veins. Recently, your island, which is carried on the back of the giant turtle Shen-Zin Su, has begun moving erratically. The air has grown cold, and your home is spiraling towards disaster. You need to complete your training so that you can help.

You speak to Master Shang Xi, who tells you to retrieve a weapon from the rack, then bring it to him to show that you know how to equip it properly. (The Lesson of the Iron Bough) Next, you're going to put the weapon to use by practicing your attacks on some Training Targets. (The Lesson of the Sandy Fist)

Facing a living opponent is a much harder challenge - they can hit back. Your next task is to practice sparring with some other trainees. (The Lesson of Stifled Pride) Master Shang Xi is impressed with you - most of the other trainees have been training a lot longer than you have - but there are other lessons he wants you to learn.

Every wisdom has its place and its time, and times are changing. You Pandaren will need to change with them. First, snatch the master's flame from Master Shang Xi's own hand, then take it to burn the Edict of Temperance. (The Lesson of the Burning Scroll)

It is an ancient scroll of wisdom passed down from the elders, but wisdom from a more peaceful time. With darkness on the horizon, the time for this particular wisdom has passed. By burning the scroll, you show you have accepted the events that are to come.

You've shown great strength and great courage. It's time to put your abilities to the test. Master Shang Xi tells you to seek out Jaomin Ro, a senior student. If you can defeat him in combat, the first phase of your training will be complete. (The Disciple's Challenge) You win, and once more, Master Shang Xi is impressed.

He has a special challenge for you: He wants you to return Huo, the spirit of fire, to the Temple of Five Dawns. However, you will not be expected to complete this task alone. Two of his other most gifted students will help you - the first is Aysa Cloudsinger. You should go meet up with her. (Aysa of the Tushui)

You find Aysa Cloudsinger, but she's busy with her exercises, and Merchant Lorvo doesn't want to disturb her. While you wait for her to finish, he could use your help - he's had some trouble with the local Amberleaf Scamps. They overran his cart and stole most of his goods. He asks that you recover the supplies (Items of Utmost Importance) and to rescue his driver, Min Dimwind, who went running after the sprites. (The Missing Driver)

By the time you're done, Aysa Cloudsinger is as well. In fact, it seems this may have been its own little test.

Aysa Cloudsinger says: A challenge in compassion and humility. By helping Merchant Lorvo, it would seem you've passed. Master Shang would be pleased.

Merchant Lorvo tells you not to worry about hurting the sprites, as they're essentially just living plants. They'll resprout later. Aysa Cloudsinger has been thinking about how you're going to fetch Huo. She knows where he is, but not how to reach him. She asks you to come with her to the Cave of Meditation and protect her while she meditates on the matter. (The Way of the Tushui)

Aysa Cloudsinger shows some remarkable concentration skills while she meditates with fighting all around her. You keep the attacking Amberleaf Troublemakers off her while she speaks with the spirit of Master Li Fei. :

Master Li Fei's voice echoes, "The way of the Tushui... enlightenment through patience and meditation... the principled life."
Master Li Fei's voice echoes, "It is good to see you again, Aysa. You've come with respect, and so I shall give you the answers you seek."
Master Li Fei's voice echoes, "Huo, the spirit of fire, is known for his hunger. He wants for tinder to eat. He needs the caress of the wind to rouse him."
Master Li Fei's voice echoes, "If you find these things and bring them to his cave, on the far side of Wu-Song Village, you will face a challenge within."
Master Li Fei's voice echoes, "Overcome that challenge, and you shall be graced by Huo's presence. Rekindle his flame, and if your spirit is pure, he shall follow you."
Master Li Fei's voice echoes, "Go, children. We shall meet again very soon."
Master Li Fei fades away.

Aysa Cloudsinger has learned what you need to do, and asks you to speak with Master Shang Xi, tells you it's time to meet the second student, Ji Firepaw. His way is different to Aysa Cloudsingers, but together they should balance each other out. Ji Firepaw will instruct you on gathering the offerings needed for the spirit of fire. (Ji of the Huojin)

Ji Firepaw starts you off with a lecture on the way of the Huojin. The attacking Fe-Feng Hozen are stealing your supplies. To not defend your people and your town would be immoral. He asks you to help fend off the attackers. (The Way of the Huojin)

After that, you're ready to gather some offerings - kindling in the form of Loose Dogwood Roots, (Kindling the Fire) and wind, which can be a little harder to hold. He gives you a wind stone to help you summon a Living Air at the Shrine of Summer, as that will drop a Fluttering Breeze that you can actually pick up and carry. (Fanning the Flames) You bring him the items and he praises you a bit for your go-getter attitude.

Master Shang Xi has arrived to tell you that you've done well, and that it's time to go rekindle Huo. In a cave to the southwest, in the Shrine of the Inner Light, you will find the spirit of Master Li Fei. You are to bring him the offerings that you have gathered.

On your way into the Shrine, you find that you have to dodge flames as a Huojin Monk warns,

The fire spirit is upset. It's dangerous to enter the shrine now...

Master Li Fei tells you that life isn't about finding yourself, it's about creating yourself. To prove yourself you need to face him in combat, though you lack the skills to win. However, it's your character, rather than your body, that's being tested. To even things out, he allows you to light the three braziers around the pool. These fires illuminate your potential, which will give you the strength you need for the fight. (The Challenger's Fires)

You face Master Li Fei in combat to prove you are worthy of passing through the flames behind him. (Only the Worthy Shall Pass) Huo rests in the chamber beyond. You can ignite him by feeding him the kindling and fanning his flames. If he likes you, he'll let you lead him to the Temple of Five Dawns. (Huo, the Spirit of Fire)

Luckily, the fire spirit does like you. (The Passion of Shen-zin Su) He even grants you the Blessing of Huo to allow you to run faster. You bring him to the temple, and he reignites the flames.

It's time for Master Shang Xi to tell you more about the greater purpose in bringing the fire spirit to the temple. Shen-Zin Su, the giant Turtle that carries the Wandering Isle on its back, is in pain, and you need to figure out how to heal it.

Master Shang Xi says: You have conquered every challenge I put before you, <player>. You have found Huo and brought him safely to the temple.
Master Shang Xi says: There is a much larger problem we face now, my students. Shen-zin Sun is in pain. If we do not act, the very land on which we stand could die, and all of us with it.
Master Shang Xi says: We need to speak to Shen-zin Su and discover how to heal it. And to do that, we need the four elemental spirits returned. Huo was the first.
Master Shang Xi says: Ji, I'd like you to go to the Dai-Lo Farmstead in search of Wugou, the spirit of earth.
Ji Firepaw says: On it!
Master Shang Xi says: Aysa, I want you to go to the Singing Pools to find Shu, the spirit of water.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: Yes master.
Master Shang Xi says: And <player>, you shall be the hand that guides us all. Speak with me for a moment before you join Aysa at the Singing Pools to the east.

You'll need the help of all four elemental spirits. Next up, Shu, the spirit of water. Aysa Cloudsinger is looking for him at the Singing Pools - join her there. (The Singing Pools) On your way, two little Pandaren children run after you. They've heard about Huo and they're very impressed.

Cai says: Hey there! Are you the one who brought back the fire spirit?
Deng says: Was he hot? I bet he was hot!
Cai says: Of course he was hot! Don't be dumb, Deng.
Cai says: I bet you're really strong, huh? You could probably kick that bridge right in half if you wanted to!
Cai says: Nuh uh. Bet they could for sure kick you over that hill, though! Hah!
Cai says: Okay bye.
Deng says: Bye!

When you get to the Singing Pools, you meet Jojo Ironbrow, who's posing before a group of admirers. He asks you to get him some Hard Tearwood Reeds from the nearby pools, and tells you not to question why. (Stronger Than Reeds) Aysa Cloudsinger is sitting on a rock in the middle of a pool. As you touch the water, you turn into a skunk. Aysa Cloudsinger explains that it is, indeed, the Pool of the Skunk. Over the years, many animals have died in these pools - so much that their spirits infused the waters, lending their form to anyone who touches the water.

While she meditates to find the location of Shu, Aysa Cloudsinger thinks you would benefit from some practice and discipline. She sends you to another cursed pool with a training bell in the center - you are to cross over balance poles until you can reach and ring the bell. (The Lesson of Dry Fur) Other Tushui Monks are practicing as well, who you must challenge and defeat. (The Lesson of the Balanced Rock) If you fall into the pool, you'll turn into a frog.

You bring the Hard Tearwood Reeds to Jojo Ironbrow, who rewards you and his admirers with a demonstration of his strength. He places the Hard Tearwood Reeds in front of him and breaks them by swiftly bringing down his forehead.

Jojo Ironbrow says: The reeds of the Singing Pools are the hardest in all of the land, but they are as air before my mighty brow.
Jojo Ironbrow says: Many have tested my claim, and yet I stand proven.

Aysa Cloudsinger has finished meditating and has found a lead on Shu. The water spirit used to have a play companion, Old Man Liang. Aysa Cloudsinger suggests you pay the old Pandaren a visit. (Finding an Old Friend)

Old Man Liang tells you that Shu is very playful. When he was young, he used to bring the water spirit a Sun Pearl as a gift, and then they would play together. He's far too old to do it now, but perhaps you can find a Sun Pearl and use it to make friends with Shu. (The Sun Pearl) While you're at it, Old Man Liang asks if you can clear up soome of the Water Pincers that are in the surrounding pools. (The Sting of Learning)

Finally, Old Man Liang tells you where you can go to find Shu - the Pools of Reflection. (Shu, the Spirit of Water) The water spirit loves his gift and immediately wants to play. (A New Friend) You splash around the pool with him as he sends jets of water to shoot you into the air, and before you know it you've made a new friend. Shu is more than willing to come with you to the Temple.

However, first you need to find Wugou, the spirit of earth. Aysa Cloudsinger tells you that she is heading to the Temple to report your success with Shu, but Ji Firepaw will meet you at Lai-Lo Farmstead. She warns that Ji Firepaw can be a bit reckless. (The Source of Our Livelihood) You catch a ride to the Farmstead with a friendly Delivery Cart Tender, and you report to Ji Firepaw. The good news... finding Wugou was easy. The bad news... Ji Firepaw is struggling to wake the earth spirit up.

While he tries to rouse the lazy Wugou, you can make yourself useful by killing Plump Virmen - the farm is overrun with them. (Rascals). And, while you're at it, Gao Summerdraft asks if you can fetch some of the crops the Plump Virmen have stolen back, so you bring him Stolen Carrots, Uprooted Turnips, and Pilfered Pumpkins. (Still Good!)

By the time you return, Ji Firepaw still hasn't had any luck waking Wugou, but he thinks it could be possible if he could just make a loud enough noise. Conveniently, there's a giant Break Gong nearby - but you need to fetch the Dai-Lo Recess Mallet, which is at the Ki-Han Brewery. (Missing Mallet)

Jojo Ironbrow, surrounded once more by admiring followers, asks you to gather him some Discarded Wood Plankss from the construction near the Brewery. (Stronger Than Wood) Once again, you're treated to a display of his strength as he breaks the Discarded Wood Plankss with his head.

Jojo Ironbrow says: Our crafters build the finest wooden planks. They would weather the most brutal of storms. But they are as water before the storm of my crushing will.
Jojo Ironbrow says: Nothing made by pandaren hands can withstand me.

Ji Firepaw realizes maybe you should have found something to cover your ears, but it's too late for that now. At least the ringing sound you'll hear for the next few hours will be the sound of victory. He lets you do the honors by ringing the Break Gong. (Raucous Rousing) You do... but Wugou sleeps through it. That's OK though, because Ji Firepaw has one more plan. You're going to ask Shu to shoot some water into Wugou's face. (Not In the Face!)

It works, and a very annoyed but awake Wugou chases a giggling Shu around for a bit before you take both of them back with you to the temple of Five Dawns. (The Spirit and Body of Shen-zin Su) Once again, you're able to hitch a ride on a Delivery Cart.

Master Shang Xi thanks you for returning the spirits of water and earth. All that remains is Dafeng, the spirit of air. Aysa Cloudsinger and Ji Firepaw will both help you with this spirit. (Morning Breeze Village)

Master Shang Xi says: You've returned with the spirits of water and earth. You make an old master proud.
Master Shang Xi says: Wugou and Shu are welcome here. We will care for them well.
Master Shang Xi says: The only remaining spirit is Dafeng, who hides somewhere across the Dawning Span to the west.
Master Shang Xi says: I can carry you to the top of the temple. Ji awaits you there to lead the way.

You find Ji Firepaw admiring Aysa Cloudsinger as she practices her exercises yet again. He doesn't know her very well as they follow different disciplines, but she sure is alluring. If you like, you can suggest he talk to her. He'll reply,

Aysa? I don't know what to say to her. Should I tell her she's gorgeous, or would she find that creepy? Maybe I could tell her I admire her poise - but then she might think I don't have any personality!

However, there are things that need to be done. The local Hozen have stolen a bunch of Scrolls of Wisdom and Paint Soaked Brushes. They're busy defiling the scrolls by painting over them with their own "wisdoms". Ji Firepaw asks you to burn the defiled scrolls, (Rewritten Wisdoms) and Elder Shaopai asks if you can fetch back the Paint Soaked Brushs. (Tools of the Enemy)

While burning the Defaced Scroll of Wisdoms, you can read the Hozen's "wisdoms". Some examples:

Poo not good to eat, but very good to throw.
Don't pull own tail when there are other tails to pull.
Don't throw banana peel where going to walk.
Don't roll in own poo unless you want to smell like poo all day.
Peel banana first, eat second.
Don't pull own tail when there are other tails to pull.
Steal a banana from a hozen, expect an angry hozen.
Wet fur not fun to sleep on.

Jojo Ironbrow feels that you still doubt his strength, and asks you to bring him Abandoned Stone Blocks. Yet again, he is successful.

Jojo Ironbrow says: These are the densest stones across all of Shen-zin Su, yet they are as nothing before my mighty head.
Jojo Ironbrow says: Any who yet doubt my strength are simply foolish.

Elder Shaopai doesn't want to dismiss the Hozen's attempts to better themselves, but they can't steal the Pandaren's supplies and wisdoms to do it. He thanks you for your help.

On that note, Jojo Ironbrow thinks it's time to take direct action against the Hozen. The way of the Huojin is not to instigate violence. However, when necessary, the Huojin are not afraid to fight. And, with these local Hozen, it's become necessary.

He suggests you help him thin their numbers, (The Direct Solution) kill their leader Ruk-Ruk, (Do No Evil) and fetch back the Stolen Fireworks the Hozen have been stealing. (Monkey Advisory Warning)

While in the Hozen village, you come across a Jade Tiger Pillar. Whatever it's made of is very, very solid. You know exactly who to bring this to - Jojo Ironbrow. (Stronger Than Bone) Jojo Ironbrow is very pleased with the new challenge.

Jojo Ironbrow says: This is magnificent! I've never seen craftsmanship so fne.
Jojo Ironbrow says: There is onely one thing to do. I must smash it! Once and for all, all shall know the power of my mighty brow.

He smashes into it, but the Jade Tiger Pillar remains unbroken. Jojo Ironbrow, on the other hand...

Jojo Ironbrow says: Oh... my head... it hurts so badly! I've... the pillar must contain enormous power... perhaps stronger even than my brow...
Jojo Ironbrow says: I'm... I'm just going to lie down a while... until this headache goes away.

Aysa Cloudsinger has been meditating on the problem of Dafeng for some time. Ji Firepaw thinks you should talk to her - reaching her will require balancing on robes but he's sure you're up to the task. (Balanced Perspective) She's impressed when you make it to her without falling into the lake, and tells you she knows where to find Dafeng.

The air spirit has been frightened out of the skies by Zhao-Ren, the Onyx Serpent. Dafeng is hiding in the Chamber of Whispers. (Dafeng, the Spirit of Air) You and Aysa Cloudsinger need to be careful as you make your way to the spirit, due to the raging winds he's summoning in his fear, but you finally reach him and are able to calm him a little.

Dafeng is too frightened to come out for as long ass Zhao-Ren is patrolling the sky, Aysa Cloudsinger tells you that Ji Firepaw has had an idea. She also admits that she can't help but admire Ji Firepaw's passion and conviction, hinting that she might admire him as much as he does her. (Battle for the Skies)

Ji Firepaw's idea turns out to be shooting Zhao-Ren down from the sky using the fireworks you took from the Hozen. You bring down the Serpent and kill it, so that Dafeng feels safe again.

With all four elemental spirits now on your side, you will finally be able to speak with Shen-Zin Su. But first, Master Shang Xi has a small task for you. He asks you to accompany him to the Wood of Staves. You'll have to defeat the Guardian of the Elders, who protects the way. (Worthy of Passing)

Once in the Wood of Staves, Master Shang Xi, who is tired and needs to rest, tells you that the sprites here are quite cruel, and asks you to clear some of them. (Unwelcome Nature) He also asks you to collect some of the Kun-pai Ritual Charms you find around the grove - he needs them for a ritual he must perform. (Small, But Significant)

Finally, he asks you to stay and listen to an old man's words. He explains that, when it's time for an Elder to die, they plant their stave in the woods. Today it's time for him to plant his staff. He asks that you meet up with Aysa Cloudsinger and Ji Firepaw and continue to help with healing Shen-Zin Su, before he plants his staff and his spirit slowly disappears. (Passing Wisdom)

Master Shang Xi says: For 3,000 years, we have passed the knowledge of our people down. Elder to youth. Master to student.
Master Shang Xi says: Every elder reaches the day where he must pass on and plant his stave with the staves of his ancestors. Today is the day when my staff joins these woods.
Master Shang Xi says: <player>, our people have lived the wholes of their lives on this great turtle, Shen-zin Su, but not in hundreds of years has anyone spoken to him.
Master Shang Xi says: Now Shen-zin is ill, and we all are in danger. With the help of the elements, you will break the silence. You will speak to him
Master Shang Xi says: Aysa and Ji have retrieved the spirits and brought them here. You are to go with them, speak to the great Shen-zin Su, and do what must be done to save our people.
Master Shang Xi says: You've come far, my young student. I see within you a great hero. I leave the fate of this land to you.

Aysa Cloudsinger and Ji Firepaw are waiting by Shang Xi's Hot Air Balloon.

Aysa Cloudsinger says: We're ready to go whenever you are, <player>.
Ji Firepaw says: Or if you want to wander the woods a while, Aysa and I can hang out here. You know... just the two of us.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: Don't listen to him. We've got work to do.

With the help of the four elements, you are about to become the first Pandaren to speak to Shen-Zin Su in hundreds of years. (The Suffering of Shen-zin Su)

Ji Firepaw says: <player>, where's Master Shang?
Aysa Cloudsinger says: ...Ji, they where in the Wood of Staves. You know where Master Shang is now.
Ji Firepaw says: Bah, let a pandaren hope, would you? I'm going to miss the old man.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: Ji, be respectful when we speak to Shen-zin Su.
Ji Firepaw says: When am I not respectful? You hurt me, Aysa.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: I might, if you embarrass us.

You approach Shen-Zin Su, who is pleased to see you. The great turtle describes a thorn in his side that's causing him unbearable pain. You promise that you will find and remove the thorn.

Aysa Cloudsinger yells: Shen-zin Su, we are the descendants of Liu Lang. We've sensed your pain, and we want to help.
Aysa Cloudsinger yells: What ails you Shen-zin Su? What can we do?
Shen-zin Su says: I am in pain, but it warms my heart that Liu Lang's grandchildren have not forgotten me.
Shen-zin Su says: There is a thorn in my side. I cannot remove it.
Shen-zin Su says: The pain is unbearable, and I can no longer swim straight.
Shen-zin Su says: Please grandchildren, can you remove this thorn? I cannot do so on my own.
Aysa Cloudsinger yells: Of course, Shen-zin Su! But your shell is large, and I do not know where this thorn could be.
Shen-zin Su says: It is in the forest where your feet do not walk. Continue along the mountains and you will find it.
Aysa Cloudsinger yells: We will find it, and we will remove it. You have our word!
Shen-zin Su says: Thank you, grandchildren.

The "thorn" turns out to be a boat, and not a Pandaren boat either. It's crashed into Shen-Zin Su's side, in Pei-Wu forest, where no one ever goes, and that's what's causing him so much pain. You head back to the Temple of the Five Dawns to plan what to do next.

Ji Firepaw says: A thorn? And I left my tweezers at home.
Ji Firepaw says: How could such a thing cause pain to something so large?
Aysa Cloudsinger says: We'll know soon enough.
Ji Firepaw says: Are you seeing what I'm seeing? Is that a boat?
Aysa Cloudsinger says: It is a boat... a whole airship! That's a bigger thorn than I was expecting.
Ji Firepaw says: And those aren't pandaren down there. They've got no fur. Aysa Cloudsinger says: Someone has crashed into our island. Removing this thorn may be more complicated than we thought.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: We should let Elder Shaopai and then plan our next move.

Elder Shaopai tells you about a hermit that lives in Pei Wu forest who may be able to help. (Bidden to Greatness) You, Aysa Cloudsinger, Ji Firepaw, and Jojo Ironbrow head out together, but you're momentarily obstructed when you find the gate to the forest is jammed. Luckily, Jojo Ironbrow has a strong weapon in the Jade Tiger Pillar. He breaks down the gate and you continue your journey.

The hermit, Wei Palerage, turns out to have strange visitors. Horde, lead by the Tauren Korga Strongmane. He tells you that he and his friends were prisoners of the Alliance, when the airship crashed and they escaped. Aysa Cloudsinger and Jojo Ironbrow rush off to speak with the Alliance about their ship, while you and Ji Firepaw stay to help the Horde.

Korga Strongmane says: Wei, are these friends of yours?
Wei Palerage says: Never met them before in my life. Pandaren don't really come in any bad flavors though.
Korga Strongmane says: Korga Strongmane, once prisoner of the Alliance, now free and woefully unarmed tauren. Good to meet you, pandaren.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: The Alliance? If the crashed ship is theirs, we need to contact them. Jojo, will you come with me?
Ji Firepaw says: We need to dislodge that ship, Korga. If we help your crewmates, can you help us?
Korga Strongmane says: Gladly, my new friend. Our engineer is still in the wilds though - we'll need to rescue him first.
Ji Firepaw says: Well, we've got a master person-finder here, eh <player>? We're on it.

Wei Palerage tells you that the Pei-Wu Tigers have become more aggressive and dangerous ever since Shen-Zin Su started shaking. You need to clear some of them from the forest if your Horde friends are going to survive. (Preying on the Predators) Korga Strongmane tells you that his men need weapons, and asks you to gather some Broken Bamboo Stalks - they will be able to fashion spears out of them. (Stocking Stalks)

If you're going to dislodge the ship, you need to find the Horde engineer, Makael Bay. Korga Strongmane reckons he should be somewhere to the west. (Wrecking the Wreck)

Makael Bay can help, but he's going to need explosives. (Handle With Care) Ji Firepaw is disturbed by the Darkened Horrors and Darkened Terrors all over the place and asks you to take care of them. (Evil from the Seas)

That done, it's time to carry news of the plan to Aysa Cloudsinger - if they're going to be blowing things up, she needs to get everyone to safety. (Urgent News)

An Alliance Human, Delora Lionheart, tells you Aysa Cloudsinger is busy helping to save as many Alliance crew members as she can, and asks you to lend your aid rescuing Injured Sailors. (None Left Behind) She also asks you to grab any medical supplies you can find, as they are sorely needed. (Medical Supplies)

Jojo Ironbrow asks you to kill as many Deepscale Tormentors as you can. (From Bad to Worse) When you get back, he tells you Aysa Cloudsinger has taken on their leader, Vordraka, the Deep Sea Nightmare. You need to help her. Quickly! (An Ancient Evil)

You tell Aysa Cloudsinger about Ji Firepaw's plan, and she's horrified. It could kill Shen-Zin Su. There has to be another way. (Risking It All) She rushes to stop Ji Firepaw, and they argue.

Aysa Cloudsinger says: Ji, stop! This is reckless and stupid.
Ji Firepaw says: Aysa, this is our only option. We blow the ship free, then we heal his wound. We have no other solution.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: If you stop this, then maybe we can come up with one.
Ji Firepaw says: So we just wait until we think of something? Shen-zin Su is dying! Doing nothing risks everything!
Aysa Cloudsinger says: Doing THIS risks everything!
Ji Firepaw says: I'd rather die knowing that at least we tried.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: Ji... if this is what you must do, I will not stop you, but we could lose everything. I hope you're right.

Ji Firepaw sets the explosives, and there is a cinematic. You see the ship is blown clear of Shen-Zin Su, but it leaves a gaping wound. Aysa Cloudsinger is devastated, and Ji Firepaw reaches out to her, but she pulls away and tells him that she can never forgive him for this, ending the budding relationship between the two Pandaren then and there.

The first phase of Ji Firepaw's plan is done - now for the healing of Shen-Zin Su's wound. You need to gather as many healers as possible to help, and to protect them as they work. (The Healing of Shen-zin Su) It works. Shen-Zin Su is healed. Ji Firepaw tells you that he did what had to be done, that things could have been so much worse if he hadn't acted, and that he wishes Aysa Cloudsinger could understand that.

For now, you should all return to the Temple of Five Dawns to let them know that The Wandering Isle is safe, and to work out what to do about these new allies of yours. (New Allies) You take a Delivery Cart back to the Temple, where you find the Spirit of Master Shang Xi.

The Spirit of Master Shang Xi is so proud of you. You've saved The Wandering Isle, but these new allies have brought some troubling news. It's not just Shen-Zin Su that has been ailing, but the whole world. It needs your help. The Spirit of Master Shang Xi wants you, Ji Firepaw, and Aysa Cloudsinger to go out and help the world.

For this, you will have to make a choice. Will you join Aysa Cloudsinger, who's chosen the Alliance, or would you prefer to join Ji Firepaw, who's going to go with the Horde? (A New Fate)

If you speak to Aysa Cloudsinger, she will say the following:

I understand that the mind of the Tushui is not the only path to wisdom, but there are yet choices that should not be accepted. Risks that are too dangerous to ever be taken. Decisions that I cannot forgive...

It is time for me to leave Shen-zin Su. I have found respect for Delora Lionheart for her confidence and valor, and her people. I do not yet know if I will find a home there, but wherever my path may lead, I will find a way to help the world beyond this isle.

Despite everything, I've enjoyed what little time we've had together, <player>. I hope that you may join me, but I understand that this decision is not an easy one.

And Ji Firepaw will say:

This day seems to be one full of hard decisions. Having the courage to make them is gravely important, for the sake of us all. I did what I had to do, and we may have all been doomed if I had not... but sadly, not all see it that way.

It is time for me to leave Shen-zin Su, that those here might be free from the burden of my difficult choice, and that I might fight on for the sake of a much larger world.

I've only known Korga for a short time, but he and I could be brothers if he were born in a different skin - he possesses bravery and honor that I would gladly stand beside. You too could be my brother/sister, after all we've gone through together. I'm hoping you might join us, but I understand that there is much to consider.

Whatever choice you make, you see a cinematic of a hot air balloon leaving The Wandering Isle, and you'll arrive outside of your new faction's capital city.

Alliance Pandaren

For Alliance players, this is Stormwind City. Aysa Cloudsinger and Jojo Ironbrow have both come with you, and Aysa Cloudsinger tells you that you have a duty to spread the Tushui philosophy. But first, you need to meet with the Alliance leader, Anduin Wrynn. (Joining the Alliance) This indicates that Alliance Pandaren have traveled forward in time for this quest, as King Varian Wrynn was king when the events of The Wandering Isle took place.

Aysa Cloudsinger approaches General Hammond Clay and tells him you wish to speak to his Emperor, and General Hammond Clay replies "Emperor? You'll find KING Anduin inside Stormwind Keep."

As you run through Stormwind City, you may overhear the following conversations:

Marty says: Hey, look! Gnolls!
Josie says: Those aren't gnolls, silly. Use your eyes.
Josie says: Those are FURBOLGS.

Moni Widdlesprock says: Teacher... look!
Alyn Black says: Yes. Those are pandaren, Moni.
Moni Widdlesprock says: Pandaren? Here, in Stormwind?

Gavin Marlsbury says: Heh... pandaren. You must be here to join the Alliance.
Gavin Marlsbury says: Good move. It worked out well for me.
Jojo Ironbrow says: Let's... just keep moving.

Lucas Severing says: Quiet, Naanae. Outsiders approach.
Naanae says: Outsiders, yes - but their intentions are good.
Naanae says: Look carefully, Lucas. The Light is strong with them. Particularly that one.
Aysa Cloudsinger says: Let's keep moving.
Jojo Ironbrow says: What's the Light?

You get to Anduin Wrynn, who welcomes you to the Alliance. With that, you've finished with the Pandaren starting quests.

A short note: The story didn't always quite end here. Before, players would be invited to walk with King Varian Wrynn while he spoke about the Alliance, (The Alliance Way) and then he would invite the players to spar with him. (An Old Pit Fighter) However, these quests are no longer in the game.

Horde Pandaren

For Horde players, the capital city is Orgrimmar. Ji Firepaw is excited to start solving all the world's problems, but first, it's time to meet the Horde leader. (Joining the Horde) Horde Pandaren are to meet Garrosh Hellscream, who was Warchief when the events of The Wandering Isle took place.

You find Garrosh Hellscream, who tells you to approach. Ji Firepaw starts to introduce you, but calls Garrosh Hellscream Emperor, who yells 'That's WARCHIEF Hellscream!' The Warchief tells you he's heard you were coming to join the Horde, and asks you to walk with him. (The Horde Way) Then he delivers a little lecture.

Garrosh Hellscream says: You've made a wise decision to join my Horde.
Garrosh Hellscream says: There are some that would call us barbarians... the "mongrel races" of Azeroth.
Garrosh Hellscream says: They are ignorant, and blind to reality. Look around you, pandaren.
Garrosh Hellscream says: You will find no better partner in battle than an orc.
Garrosh Hellscream says: The tauren have made themselves useful. Look - this one is a shaman.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Even a blood elf can hold a sword.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Do you see it? Everyone in my Horde earns their keep. You and your friends will be no exception!
Garrosh Hellscream says: Do you understand this, pandaren?
Ji Firepaw says: Yes, warchief.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Hm. Good.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Moving on. I know that you are not the only pandaren to escape from that island.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Some of your kind chose to join the Alliance.
Garrosh Hellscream says: They are now your enemies.
Garrosh Hellscream says: You may have had friends and kin who chose to cast their lot with the enemies of the Horde. They are no longer your friends... no longer your family.
Garrosh Hellscream says: The minute they put on that Alliance tabard, they died. I will NOT tolerate any lingering ties across enemy lines. Traitors to the Horde will die a traitor's death!
Garrosh Hellscream says: Do I make myself clear?
Ji Firepaw says: I... I believe so. Yes.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Good.

Finally, Garrosh Hellscream welcomes you to the Horde. With that, you've finished with the Pandaren starting quests.

The quests didn't always end here. Before, Garrosh Hellscream would tell the player he's giving them a gift, which would turn out to be an opportunity to fight in an arena. (Hellscream's Gift) This quest is no longer in the game.

Items of Interest in The Wandering Isle

A statue of a Pandaren on the back of a turtle is the centerpiece in the Temple of Five Dawns. A plaque labeled Liu Lang, The First Explorer below the statue reads:

"Every horizon is a treasure chest; Every blank map a story waiting to be told." -Liu Lang

The first pandaren explorer, Liu Lang disembarked from the mainland on the back of the great turtle Shen-zin Su. His discoveries proved that the rest of the world had survived the Sundering.

He would return to Pandaria every five years, gathering more wanderers and explorers with each visit, until his death at the age of 122. The turtle Shen-zin Su has not returned to Pandaria since.

The Tushui and the Huojin are the two major schools of philosophy that the Pandaren on The Wandering Isle follow. Tushui Pandaren strive to be disciplined and principled, and will spend a great deal of their time in meditation and thought. The Huojin Pandaren believe in taking swift action, and try to face challenges head-on. Aysa Cloudsinger follows the Tushui path while Ji Firepaw is a Huojin.

Notice how the Tushui train by practicing their form in front of an instructor, while the Huojin train by fighting each other:

During the quest Morning Breeze Village, you meet Lorewalker Zan on your journey, who tells you the following:

Lorewalker Zan says: Hello <player>! The Lorewalker is beginning her lesson just down these stairs if you want to listen in.

If you go down the stairs, you'll find Lorewalker Amai and Lorewalker Ruolin giving a lesson to several Young Students, including Hao, Nan, and Yin.

Lorewalker Ruolin will sing the children a song, and then Lorewalker Amai will thank him and tell the children the story of The Wandering Isle's origins.

Lorewalker Amai says: Thank you, Ruolin! That was beautiful.
Lorewalker Amai says: Could you sing it once more, for the students who just arrived?
Lorewalker Amai says: This is the Song of Liu Lang, the first pandaren explorer.
Hao says: Why can't I understand any of the words?
Lorewalker Amai says: The song is written in the old tongue, the language of emperors and scholars. Hardly anyone speaks it anymore.

Han says: What is the song about?
Lorewalker Amai says: It is all about his adventures.
Lorewalker Amai says: Brave Liu Lang set out to explore the world on the back of a sea turtle.
Lorewalker Amai says: Does anyone remember the turtle's name? Yin?
Yin says: Shen-zin Su!
Lorewalker Amai says: That's right, the turtle was called Shen-zin Su. At first, he was only big enough for Liu Lang to sit on.
Lorewalker Amai says: He grew and grew and grew, SO big, that now some people call him "The Wandering Isle."
Lorewalker Amai says: Question, Hao?
Hao says: We live on the back of a big turtle?
Lorewalker Amai says: Yes, Hao - our home is on Shen-zin Su's back.
Han says: Sheesh, Hao. Haven't you ever paid attention?
Hao says: I just thought it was weird that the mountains had flippers!

Lorewalker Amai says: Liu Lang discovered many things as he explored the world - oh - yes, Hao?
Hao says: Does the turtle know we're here?
Lorewalker Amai says: That's a good question. Nobody has spoken to Shen-zin Su for many generations. He only ever spoke to Liu Lang.
Lorewalker Amai says: But I am certain that Shen-zin Su knows we are here. And he cares for every one of us!
Nan says: Even Hao?
Hao says: Hey!
Lorewalker Amai says: Especially Hao! Liu Lang once said, "Noble is he who always asks questions."
Lorewalker Amai says: "We should all be like children, for the world is our elder, and has many things to teach us."
Hao says: Yeah, you should all be more like me.
Nan says: Blerch! I'd rather jump off this bridge.
Lorewalker Amai says: Students! Students! Pay attention now.

Lorewalker Amai says: Does anyone know how often Liu Lang went back to Pandaria?
Yin says: ...Whenever he got hungry?
Lorewalker Amai says: Haha, no Yin. Liu Lang would eat wherever he explored.
Lorewalker Amai says: He returned to the main continent of Pandaria once every five years.
Yin says: But isn't Pandaria hidden somewhere? Nobody can find it!
Lorewalker Amai says: You are right, Yin. It IS hidden away, behind a cloak of mists.
Lorewalker Amai says: Does anyone remember how Liu Lang was always able to find it? Nan?
Nan says: Because sea turtles always return to the beach where they were born!
Lorewalker Amai says: That's right! Liu Lang always had a way back home. Every five years, he would return, to pick up more explorers.

Hao says: Does that mean our moms and dads and grandparents were all explorers, too?
Lorewalker Amai says: Yes Hao! Only the BRAVEST pandaren joined Liu Lang on his turtle to explore the world.
Yin says: But we don't explore very much anymore, do we?
Lorewalker Amai says: Shen-zin Su hasn't made landfall for a long time. But that hasn't stopped some pandaren from exploring, anyway.
Nan says: Like Chen and Li Li Stormstout!
Lorewalker Amai says: Yes, like Chen and Li Li! They're out, exploring the world. Maybe someday you will, too.
Hao says: I want to explore the world!
Nan says: No you don't. It's full of trolls.
Hao says: Oh. Well, forget it then.

Yin says: Lorewalker! Whatever happened to Liu Lang?
Lorewalker Amai says: I'm glad you asked, Yin. Liu Lang explored the world his entire life, and raised many children here on the Wandering Isle.
Lorewalker Amai says: Eventually he grew very old, and visited Pandaria one final time.
Lorewalker Amai says: But nobody else wanted to go exploring with him. So he left.
Lorewalker Amai says: Shen-zin Su has never returned to Pandaria.
Lorewalker Amai says: Tired now, Liu Lang said goodbye to Shen-zin Su, his oldest friend.
Lorewalker Amai says: Then, Liu Lang went up to the Wood of Staves, carrying with him a bamboo umbrella that he always took on his adventures.Lorewalker Amai says: He opened his umbrella, planted it in the ground, and sat underneath its cool shade.
Lorewalker Amai says: He closed his eyes, and became one with the land. And then - do you know what happened?
Hao says: What?
Nan says: What? What?
Lorewalker Amai says: His umbrella... sprouted! It grew roots, flowered, and became a tree!
Hao says: That's un-possible!
Lorewalker Amai says: Well, it's true. If you ever go to the Wood of Staves, you can see it.
Lorewalker Amai says: Along with the budding staves of all the elders who came before us, growing now into giant trees.

Yin says: That's a sad story!
Lorewalker Amai says: It's not a sad story! Liu Lang himself said, "Never mourn a life well-lived."
Lorewalker Amai says: And I think he lived a very very good life. We owe everything we have to Liu Lang, the first pandaren explorer.
Lorewalker Amai says: We tell his story, so that he will always be remembered.
Lorewalker Amai says: Thank you, Ruolin! That was beautiful.
Lorewalker Amai says: Could you sing it once more, for the students who just arrived?

After the quest Passing Wisdom, you may find a monument to Liu Lang's Final Rest in the Wood of Staves. It reads:

"Goodnight, Shen-zin Su. Do not mourn, old friend. I sleep, and when I awaken, my next great journey begins." -Liu Lang

This location marks the final resting place of Liu Lang, the first pandaren explorer. Weary from a lifetime of travels, he rested under the shade of his trusted bamboo umbrella and drifted to what lies beyond.

According to legend, the unusual tree growing in this spot sprouted from that very umbrella, and his spirit has merged with the lands on Shen-zin Su's back.

In the generations that followed, many of the island's elders have followed, each planting his or her staff in the ground to create the "Wood of Staves."

Quests Found in The Wandering Isle

The Lesson of the Iron Bough
The Lesson of the Sandy Fist
The Lesson of Stifled Pride
The Lesson of the Burning Scroll
The Disciple's Challenge
Aysa of the Tushui
Items of Utmost Importance
The Missing Driver
The Way of the Tushui
Ji of the Huojin
The Way of the Huojin
Kindling the Fire
Fanning the Flames
The Challenger's Fires
Only the Worthy Shall Pass
Huo, the Spirit of Fire
The Passion of Shen-zin Su
The Singing Pools
Stronger Than Reeds
The Lesson of Dry Fur
The Lesson of the Balanced Rock
Finding an Old Friend
The Sun Pearl
The Sting of Learning
Shu, the Spirit of Water
A New Friend
The Source of Our Livelihood
Rascals
Still Good!
Missing Mallet
Stronger Than Wood
Raucous Rousing
Not In the Face!
The Spirit and Body of Shen-zin Su
Morning Breeze Village
Rewritten Wisdoms
Tools of the Enemy
The Direct Solution
Do No Evil
Monkey Advisory Warning
Stronger Than Bone
Balanced Perspective
Dafeng, the Spirit of Air
Battle for the Skies
Worthy of Passing
Unwelcome Nature
Small, But Significant
Passing Wisdom
The Suffering of Shen-zin Su
Bidden to Greatness
Preying on the Predators
Stocking Stalks
Wrecking the Wreck
Handle With Care
Evil from the Seas
Urgent News
None Left Behind
Medical Supplies
From Bad to Worse
An Ancient Evil
Risking It All
The Healing of Shen-zin Su
New Allies
A New Fate
Joining the Alliance
Joining the Horde
The Horde Way

The Story of the Pandaren Starting Area

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