If I force myself to be reasonable and honest, I have to admit that Baine is fine, and he just does what a reasonable person would do in reality. He’s useful, good for the Horde, strong, and a stand up guy. The truth is, that I (and maybe others?) just can’t see past the cloud that Cairne’s death left in his wake. I’m not sure Baine can ever live up the legacy Blizzard forced him to follow, and it’s left some of us irrational—myself included.
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My issue with Baine is far too often any good characterization that comes from him is locked within the books, and that far too often he’s sort of turned into an accessory for Anduin. Which is why a little part of me is glad he’s the one to get pooped out first from the Jailor, since perhaps him both being locked away in SLs AND locked away from Anduin will allow for avenues for growth. For the first time in ages he has a chance for his characterization to come before his needs as a “token good horde plot-device”. Just as Thrall has a chance to get back to his roots, and become the Orc Chieften he’s supposed to be. Baine needs Cairne’s balance, Thrall needs investment in his people.
These two were not my choices to get trapped in the SLs. Calia choosing to be trapped is interesting, as its her avoiding her promise (which presents growth for her as an individual, and consequences for her as a prospective leader). But, Baine and Thrall do need growth in certain areas to be the people the current Horde needs them to be; especially for their own races. God, I hope they get it … and aren’t just there for cheap inclusion for the Horde faction and players in what Blizz intends to be an Arthas redemption story.
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