Defying Death

by Melkor's Mercy

Just when Arthas is about to die, he narrowly escapes Icecrown Citadel. With his broken blade in hand, he seeks refuge in Outland to escape justice. Broken and powerless, he must rely on his wits. His entire mindset changes as he must learn to adapt to this new world and new people. However, with the Horde and Alliance champions at his heel, how will he escape death?

10. Chapter 10

Chapter 10: Standoff

Fire rained all around the desolate barren lands of Shadowmoon Valley. Demons swarmed everywhere maiming and burning everything in sight. Leading them was none other than the infamous Dreadlord Azachondrius. The winged demon had a sinister smile as he smashed down directly at the foot of Black Temple.

He turned back towards his army with a malevolent grin, "Move into the temple…kill all in your path!"

Following his command, the demon army smashed against the defenses of the temple. Many Ashtongue Deathsworn were now gathered around the walls launching projectiles at the incoming fiends.

Several pit lords led the charge through the central opening towards the gate. Behind them hundreds of Wrathguards and Felguards followed. Many were mowed down from both sides by the opposing forces lining the inner walls. Unfortunately, the demon air support was beginning to pick them off. This battle had barely begun and was already becoming one-sided.

Azachondrius grinned evilly at the sight of the bloodshed. Then much to his surprise, a large group of Deathsworn came out of the opening gate. The deformed draenei fearlessly charged out led by Akama and Maiev into the incoming pit lords. The demon leader watched amusedly as the warriors struggled to take down his forward assault group.

A nearby imp crept over towards Azachondrius fearfully and spoke up, "Overlord…w-w-we have been scouring the entire valley f-f-for this w-warlock. W-we ca-can't find him!"

The dread lord turned his head towards the tiny fearful demon with a careless glance, "You have one hour to find this Kanrethad or I will send you on a one way trip to hell. It won't be long before the Naaru try to stop us. We need to open the portal TODAY!"

The imp didn't even bother responding as he disappeared without a word undoubtedly to bolster his search. Azachondrius simply shook his head and laughed, "It won't be long before the temple falls…"

"You! DEMON!" somebody called out from afar. The Overlord of the Nathrezim turned his head towards the source and spotted a large group of blood elves standing there.

He eyed them up and down with a sadistic stare. "Sacrifices?" he asked with a wide smile etched across his face.

Standing amongst this group of blood elves was Vyara. The battlemage and her company had managed to clear a way through the demon army towards the center where Azacondrius now stood. The majority of the demon forces were focused on the temple leaving the demon leader exposed from the sides.

Upon spotting this arrival, several demons tried to intercept them, but a few well placed fireballs and ice lances easily annihilated them.

Vyara spoke up fiercely as she held her fiery blade in an aggressive stance, "You must be the leader of this army I take it?!"

"Yes…as it just so happens, I am," Azachondrius replied as if they were having a normal conversation and battle was not imminent.

Vyara saw the fearsome axe in the demon's hand and jaw dropped, "What is that?!"

The dread lord held up Shadowmourne and laughed, "Ah this? It is going to be your new home…NOW DIE!"

The demon roared as he made a near impossible to follow dash towards them. Vyara and her company barely dodged the attack as Azachondrius swooped by and smashed the powerful weapon into the ground. It released a terrifying howl as runic shadow energy erupted in all directions.

Working fast, the blood elves surrounded him and all tried to channel a beam of frost magic into the demon. It had little to no effect as Azachondrius easily broke out of the restraint. He swung his axe in a sharp cleave catching several unfortunate Scryers in the wake of his attack.

Their bodies were sent flying and their souls were absorbed into the runic, evil weapon. Vyara fearfully ordered her troops back into a defensive formation. She eyed the axe fearfully, "It's a soul-eating weapon! Stay back Scryers!"

"So pathetic…I expected a better fight than that," the demon chuckled carelessly.

Anger swelled up in the woman as she channeled a large amount of fire into her weapon. The enchanted blade unleashed a powerful swirling bolt of fire making full contact with the demon. She anxiously watched to see if it had any effect, but sadly Azachondrius appeared completely unfazed.

The Overlord of the Nathrezim shook his head, "Your magic is weak. It's going to take more than that to hurt me…little girl."

Meanwhile, back at the front lines, Akama and Maiev were relentlessly battling the hordes of demons. Their successful battlefield tactics and presence alone kept morale in check allowing the Deathsworn to hold back the tide. Akama decided to fall further back allowing for the demons to be sniped from three sides and channeled into a narrower opening.

Maiev wielded the war glaives of Azzinoth with deadly ferocity and used them to take down the battlefield commanders of the demons. One by one, she took out of the enemy pit lords allowing for the easier repelling of lesser demons.

Back with Azachondrius, the dread lord glanced over towards the frontlines taking his attention off of the blood elves. He noticed the turning tide and sighed in annoyance. His voice projected loud and commandingly, "All forces push forward! Overwhelm them now! Doomguards take them from the rear! Imps Set fires inside their ranks! Separate the phalanx!"

The fearsome voice of their Overlord bolstered the resolve of the demon army causing them to fight with a frenzy few could describe. Doomguards flew over the walls and physically tore warriors in half as they launched shadow bolts towards defenseless archers. By the hundreds, warriors began to fall to the demons onslaught.

While he was distracted, Vyara made a mad dash attempting to stab Azachondrius from behind. The demon easily caught her with a swift and devastating kick sending the woman flying towards the ground bleeding profusely.

"Vyara!" a familiar voice sounded. Before Azachondrius could finish her off, a tall red headed blood elf man with two horde officers arrived.

Azachondrius immediately recognized Aeryssa and Valerica from his time in Raze, but the man was unknown to him.

"Hobb? Wha-what are you…doing here?" Vyara asked half awake as she began to slip from consciousness.

"You, priestess, heal her!" Hobb spoke to Aeryssa. The ebony haired elf nodded as she quickly rushed to help the downed battlemage. The surviving blood elves looked relieved by the arrival of Hobb, but surprised by his company.

Valerica examined the intimidating demon standing before them and soon her eyes widened with fear, "Sh-Shadowmourne?! He has Shadowmourne!"

Aeryssa looked up from her healing just in time to notice the infamous axe in the hands of the towering pale dread lord.

"What did you do to, Raze? How are you wielding that weapon?!" Valerica demanded worried.

The overlord laughed at her concern, "Raze? Oh yes…your little orc friend. He along with those three Alliance fools at Auchindoun are now my slaves….HAHAHAHA!"

Vyara looked closely at the axe and gasped as she could barely make out the sight of Raze's reflection pounding against the inside of the weapon.

"Let them go, monster!" Valerica demanded as she drew Quel'Delar.

Vyara, now starting to regain some vigor slowly stood up, "Hobb? What took you so long…who are these two?"

The red head turned towards his sister concerned, "I'm sorry for being late…the portals here have been cut off by some unknown power fluctuations. We had to fly here…the Alliance and Horde aren't far behind."

"Wha-what?!" She asked worried.

The man sighed, "Something happened to the magic network of the planet. Did Arthas go inside yet?"

Vyara looked away bitterly at the mention, "Y-yeah…but he ditched me outside of the temple like a damn jerk. I-I'm worried Hobb…"

Sure enough, there was a clear bruise on the woman's face from where Arthas had knocked her unconscious. Aeryssa and Valerica found the news disturbing. The priestess spoke up urgently, "What about Arthas?! Where did he go?!"

Azachondrius looked interested by the news, "So the young Lich King made his pilgrimage? But how…Frostmourne was broken was it not?!"

Hobb looked at him confused, "Pilgrimage? What pilgrimage?"

"Hobb…I don't know what happened exactly, but I went to go speak with Akama after Arthas left. He told me that Arthas rebuilt Frostmourne in the Reliquary of Souls…and that he killed his way inside," Vyara informed her brother urgently.

The two blood elf sisters, Valerica and Aeryssa traded terrified glances. The paladin spoke up disbelievingly, "ARTHAS REBUILT FROSTMOURNE?! HOW?!"

Aeryssa shook her head, "But…he didn't have missing shards from it. Weren't those still in Icecrown?"

"Maiev Shadowsong brought them to him…for some reason," Vyara answered them.

The horde champions looked horrified. Valerica thought for a moment, "Maiev Shadowsong? Isn't that the night elf woman with the ring blade?"

"Which one?" Aeryssa asked dryly.

Valerica turned her head towards Azachondrius demandingly, "You! Demon! You said something about a Pilgrimage! Where did Arthas go?!"

Just then an imp appeared nearby, "Overlord! We found the warlock! He's at the peak of the temple!"

Azachondrius laughed, "Excellent…you may continue your duties now, felimp."

Turning his gaze back upon the confused blood elves Azachondrius simply smiled, "I wish I had more time to waste playing with you little mortals…but my purpose lies elsewhere. Perhaps if you survive until our next encounter, I will murder you all then."

Without another word, Azachondrius flew away at high speed towards the peak of Black Temple. Many doom guards and several doom lords followed him.

"What is he here for?" Vyara asked worried as she turned towards the horde champions expecting them to know. They both looked uncertain for a moment, but Hobb answered in their stead, "He's looking for the Codex of Xerreth I believe. Supposedly some human warlock named Kanrethad had it."

"Why would he be here though?" Vyara asked confused.

"I do not know…but we need to take out these demons before they can open a portal to Xerreth," Hobb responded.

"You two know something we don't…where did Arthas go? And why were you helping him?" Aeryssa demanded.

Hobb sighed, "Now is not the time to explain…"

Vyara looked at her brother surprised, "You brought these two along and neglected to tell them anything about our sleeper cell?"

Hobb nodded, "I told them what they needed to know…and that we knew where Arthas was."

"And where is he exactly? I don't like the sounds of this…pilgrimage," Valerica sighed.

"I see you two have also fallen prey to the traitor's influence," a sadistic voice sounded from behind. Vyara and Aeryssa both visibly clenched in fear as they turned around and spotted a very large group of new arrivals approaching.

Standing in front of them was none other than the terrifying Banshee Queen, Sylvanas herself. The undead elf watched the two of them angrily, "So, you two were conspiring with these traitors out here to help Arthas escape?!"

The blood elf sisters both regretfully looked away as many new arrivals landed. With them was none other than Tirion, Darion, and many of the champions from the raid on Icecrown. Mortukai was there as well, but he appeared half-hearted about his current situation. It was obvious he got in a lot of trouble.

Hobb simply sighed, "If only the portal would have worked…we could have avoided this."

"SO…you were in league with Arthas all along?! Did you betray the secrets of our meeting to him, worm?!" Sylvanas demanded bitterly towards Hobb.

"It was hardly a secret if everybody in the city was there…though I suppose that detail eluded your unquestionable wisdom," Hobb replied sarcastically.

Sarkon quickly spotted Aeryssa and Valerica, "That's where you two were…we tried to bring you in for the raid. I thought you went home…"

"Thanks for the concern, Sarkon…" Valerica sighed. The Tauren focused his gaze on Sylvanas and back towards Valerica giving her a discreet noose gesture. It was evident that he was sick of Sylvanas and the other leaders taking the reins from him.

Tirion simply glared at the crowd of traitor blood elves before them, "I see you two were swept into this mess as well? For this act, I will see to it that Lor'themar revokes both of your positions from the clergy! How can you possibly justify your actions now? You willingly align with these people to help Arthas? Have you lost your damned minds?!"

Sylvanas nodded in approval at the paladin's words, "I am glad we agree on this matter…I find this disgusting."

"In case none of you have noticed, we have bigger issued to deal with right now. There's a demon army tearing up the temple right now! Come on, Sarkon, let's go," Seirian interrupted. The paladin waved the Tauren druid to follow him.

Sarkon and many other champions followed their raid leaders leaving Tirion, Darion, and Sylvanas behind with the sisters. As Mortukai walked by, he tried to speak to them, but Sylvanas quickly yelled at him, "Move out, Forsaken! Unless you wish for an early execution!"

The mage regretfully sighed in acceptance as he continued onward. He simply issued a curt nod towards Valerica and Aeryssa showing that he did not disapprove. Darion who had been quiet up until this point sighed, "Exactly why did you Scryers decide to help Arthas get out here? What purpose does it serve you?"

The death knight was speaking to Hobb and Vyara. The brother and sister traded uncertain expressions before the red head answered, "The legion is too powerful now…the Naarus' powers are failing, and not even the Alliance and Horde could hope to match the new forces at Kil'jaeden's command. We asked Arthas to help us…"

Sylvanas simply scoffed at his words, "You must be the most gullible, pathetic individual I've ever seen. You do realize WHO he is right?! He destroyed Quel'Thelas! What possible reason could you think that he would help you?! Why would you even entertain the thought of aligning with that murdering fiend!"

"Just shut up already…" Hobb sighed in annoyance.

His words greatly surprised everybody present. Hobb simply shook his head, "You speak as if you're the only victim that ever emerged from Quel'thelas. I was actually in Silvermoon when he destroyed the sunwell to resurrect Kel'thuzad. I had to follow Kael'thas in his maddened desperation for vengeance. Do you know the real pain of watching our last King sell us out to demons? When he chose to align with the legion things became much clearer to me. I wouldn't expect any of you to understand why I trust Arthas. He is a necessary evil…and to be quite honest, he's not at all what I expected."

"What maddened nonsense are you talking about? Has the Fel magic out here fried your brain? OR did Arthas promise you something in return for blind loyalty? He has a habit of doing that…" Darion interrupted.

"Arthas promised us nothing…in fact he wanted us to stay away from him. I actually wanted to follow him, but he sent me away," Vyara added as she put a hand to her bruised face. She had a bitter look of rejection etched across her features.

Valerica was not overly fond of the longingly distant gaze and decided to change the subject, "We were just trying to find Arthas, Highlord…I really just wanted to talk to him."

Tirion eyed her suspiciously, "You're hereby revoked from duty, paladin…this matter has become too personal for you and your sister. You will remain here until our mission is complete and then you will be sent back to Lor'themar for your official dismissal from the Clergy. Your commanding officers may also see fit to discharge you form the horde as well," Tirion spoke up.

Darion shook his head, "I've heard enough of this…tell us where Arthas is now."

"He went into the temple…" Vyara answered as vaguely as possible.

Sylvanas cracked a fist disapprovingly, "You know where he was going…why did he go in there?!"

"There will be time for this later, Sylvanas, we need to deal with these demons. Come…you traitors continue to fight these demons. Perform your duty and perhaps I'll put in a word for an honorable discharge," Tirion spoke up as he began to take his leave.

Valerica was quick to mouth off, "We didn't do anything wrong!"

Tirion didn't even bother stopping to reply as he continued onward. Darion quickly followed him leaving only Sylvanas behind. The Banshee Queen sent one last hate-filled stare at the group, but Valerica in particular, "I will see to it that you are all executed for this…if you're helping the Lich King, then you might as well be a part of the Scourge. Pray that you die before I have time to kill you thistlehead girl."

Upon Sylvanas taking her leave, Valerica rolled her eyes and sighed, "What a bitch…"

"Well…so much for our careers. What the hell are we supposed to do now? If we get kicked out of the Clergy and the horde, I'll have to get a civilian job as a merchant or something stupid like that…" Aeryssa added.

Vyara simply looked down at the ground shamefully, "What are we going to do now, Hobb?"

"We'll have to wait for Arthas to return I guess…" Hobb answered her.

Aeryssa eyed the blonde battemage and her brother curiously, "Are…you two seriously thinking about joining him? Exactly where did he go anyways?"

"Beneath the Black Temple is a doorway that leads into the spiritual plane. We learned of it from an ancient lore book our father found in Auchindoun. He gave it to me back before he went mad…" Hobb answered.

Aeryssa seemed fascinated by the news, "Spiritual plane? Why have you never searched it before?"

"It was locked…by some weird magical test. Frostmourne is supposedly the key to enter…" Vyara added.

Valerica shook her head, "That's impossible…a doorway to the other plane? Such a thing cannot exist…it's impossible."

"Who was your father?" Aeryssa asked Hobb and Vyara. The two traded reluctant glances before Hobb answered, "Lord Sanguinar…the Blood Hammer. He was one of the advisors of King Kael'thas. Our mother was Capernian, the grand astromancer."

Both blood elf sisters gasped in shock. Valerica shook her head in disbelief, "Your father is THE Bloodhammer?! He was one of the greatest elven paladins to ever live!"

"Our mother was a powerful mage as well…that is why we're both adept battlemages," Vyara explained.

Aeryssa looked sad at the mention of the news, "But that would mean…you had to betray your own parents?!"

The red head sighed, "Yes…the Naaru sought their deaths as they were sworn into Illidan's service. Our parents did not take our defection into the Scryers very well. However…it was something that needed to be done. They were losing their sanity in their lust for power."

"How so? What exactly happened with all the loyalists? Why did they stay with King Kael'thas?" Valerica asked.

"Forget that, I want to know more about this tome you found. You said your father gave it to you?" Aeryssa interrupted.

"The tome my father gave me was written in orcish. I was adept in the language so I told him about the things in there. Reluctantly, that is my greatest regret. I never expected what the knowledge of its contents would do to him…eventually he wanted to present it to Lord Kael'thas as a gift. Before the Scryers defected, he came asking for me to hand it over. He had this evil, power-mad look in his eyes. He undoubtedly told Kael'thas about it, and sought to learn of a way into the spiritual plane. We learned later that Kael'thas was researching a way to reach the spiritual plane on his own during his time in Netherstorm. Supposedly there is unlimited arcane power in the Arcane Voidstream past the eye of our plane. The book spoke much of this place as some type of branch…do you know who wrote this book?" Hobb continued.

"Who?" Valerica demanded extremely eager to know.

"Ner'zhul, the Orc Warchief of Draenor. Ner'zhul the master of Prince Arthas and the former Lich King. Ner'zhul, the Avatar of the elemental spirits of Draenor and former wielder of Frostmourne," Hobb answered.

Aeryssa's eyes widened, "I had no idea all of this was connected…so then, why didn't you help your parents or Kael'thas? Why would you help Arthas reach this place?"

"I for one have always supported the plight of our people, but the idea of Kael'thas wielding unlimited power in service to the legion terrified me. Perhaps he sought it in an attempt to break free from them…but I wasn't willing to take that chance, so we rejected our parents and joined the Scryers."

"That doesn't explain why you helped Arthas find it…" Valerica cut in.

"Do you still have this book?" Aeryssa asked anxiously.

Hobb shook his head, "No…I destroyed it after my father came looking for it."

"I guess that explains why they never hunted you down then…" Valerica added.

The man nodded, "It was for the best…even if they did not realize it. I regret that I did not have faith in Lord Kael'thas…but his actions were misguided."

"Yeah…he was little bit loopy near the end," Aeryssa noted.

"That was merely a setback…" Valerica added.

The two sisters traded a quick laugh. Vyara and Hobb did not seem to understand their joke. Out of the shroud of darkness a flash of ebony hair bolted in front of them as Anerius came into view.

The rogue had a thoughtful expression on his face clearly indicating that he had overheard their entire conversation.

Everybody was shocked by his sudden appearance and turned to look at him concerned. The rogue simply looked between all of them and shook his head, "So you two are getting discharged from service huh? Sorry to hear…but maybe you can look at it as an early retirement."

"Anerius?! What are you doing here?" Valerica asked shocked.

The black haired rogue shrugged, "I wanted to know why you two were so determined to chase after Arthas Why does everybody seem to be fawning over him like mindless idiots?"

"Doesn't it fascinate you though? I mean, the more we follow this guy, and the more he talks to us, the crazier this whole thing seems," Valerica tried to explain. Key word, tried.

"It's like he has some sort of enchantment that just makes people lose all sense…it has to be some kind of hidden power or something we're not aware of," Anerius rationalized.

Anerius simply shrugged, "Well that's a topic for another time…So anyways, you're saying that he went to the spiritual plane or some crazy crap like that?"

The rogue was focusing his gaze on Hobb. The red head nodded, "Yes…we've known the legion was coming for a long time…there is incredible untapped power there. In my own desperation I suggested to Vyara that we try to reach this place. Even if it meant our destruction, at least Outland would be safe. Knowing full well that Arthas had the key, we sought an opportunity to contact him. Imagine my surprise when Vyara told me she found him here in Outland."

"You've got to be kidding me…so you shunned your parents for seeking this power yet you yourself seek it out later? That's rather hypocritical if you ask me…" Anerius said disapprovingly.

"It's not like we really have a choice do we?! Do you see that demon army out there?! They're nothing but a scouting party…if they open the gate to Xerreth, then Outland is doomed. This place has stood as a bastion halting the legion's progress for years now. If it falls, then countless other worlds, including Azeroth will follow. And for the record, we are NOT hypocrites! This was our last option!" Vyara defended them.

Hobb placed a hand on her shoulder to calm the blonde before speaking again, "We foolishly believed we could wield this power against the legion…but Arthas didn't seem to approve. He told us that we were getting in over our heads. I suppose he was right in that regard. In my own arrogance I failed to see that I sounded exactly like my father. Arthas said that he would go in our stead…and that he would help us fight the legion."

"Why would Arthas help you though?! If you couldn't trust Kael'thas to wield that kind of power then why would you possibly think Arthas a better candidate?!" Anerius demanded.

"For what it's worth…I approve of your decision to destroy that book," Aeryssa added, "I don't like the idea of anybody playing god with powers they don't understand. Though, do you really think you can trust Arthas to wield something like that? I mean…he seems decent lately, but if he reforged Frostmourne to enter that place, then wouldn't it only consume his soul again?"

"Finally, you're starting to sound like yourself again, Aeryssa…" Anerius noted before shooting an eager stare at Hobb.

"He was meant to wield it…Ner'zhul wrote of many things in his tome. Chiefly amongst them, Arthas…even during his reign over Draenor as Warchief and the betrayal of demons; the shaman spoke of a twilight king inheriting his duty," Hobb replied.

"Hobb…you never told Arthas about this," Vyara spoke up questioningly.

The red head sighed, "I did not want to alarm him…I wasn't sure how he would react if I started telling him things like that. I assumed he would think I was forcing a responsibility on him."

"I guess that would explain your willingness to help him…" Anerius noted.

"If Ner'zhul had visions of Arthas before he invaded Azeroth…" Valerica began surprised.

"By the light, this is starting to get freaky…I'd almost call it fate," Aeryssa agreed.

"He told me that he just wanted to fight…that he had some kind of mission. What are the odds that all of this is connected?" Vyara said distantly.

"Are you people even listening to yourselves right now? I mean seriously…you're starting to sound like my dad with all his crazy religious nonsense. So Arthas really does want to battle the Legion then? But why? What does he get out of this? And for the love of the light please don't say some bullshit like, redemption," Anerius shook his head annoyed.

"I guess you can ask him when he gets back…" Hobb replied. The ebony-haired elf shot him a disapproving glare, "That I will…"

Before anybody could say another word, the sound of approaching reinforcements sounded. Coming from the west, a large force of backup Aldor came flying in. Many were riding nether rays and a few were on Netherdrakes. The majority of the flying entourage passed them and headed slightly north towards the Aldor outpost.

A secondary group branched off and flanked the demons from the rear. A few of the nether rays broke formation and landed near the blood elves obviously hoping for a status report.

Valerica and Aeryssa traded uncertain glances as three young looking Draenei girls were among this group. The new arrival greatly alarmed the demon army as a large percentage of them turned to cover the rear. Full scale conflict was now erupting all around the temple as the battle raged on.

The leader of these three Draenei teenagers, from what Aeryssa could guess quickly spoke up, "Where is Arthas at?"

"In case you haven't noticed, kid…there's a war going on right now," Anerius rudely responded.

Ishka shot him a sharp glare, "It doesn't seem to be affecting you at all…what are you all doing just standing out here? What's going on?"

Vyara turned towards Hobb and sighed, "Oh great…now the stupid draenei are involved."

"Hey! You're that hussy that was with Arthas in the bar! What were you Scryers doing with him?!" Maelina demanded.

Vyara eyed Maelina annoyed, "You're that little girl that he made cry. I'm surprised they let you out of school, kid."

"I am NOT a kid! Tell us where Arthas is, now!" Maelina shouted at the woman.

Hobb watched them confused, "Exactly, what purpose do three 'young' draenei girls have out here? Oh wait…you were the kids that brought him to the city, I remember now."

Ishka glanced around at all of the blood elves and huffed in annoyance, "We have every right to be out here. Arthas is our friend!"

Anerius gave the young girls a condescending look, "Did the three of you fall on your heads as children? Why are you out here looking for the Lich King?!"

"Shut up jerk, I don't care what you people said about him…I refuse to believe that smear campaign you painted Arthas with back in Shattrah!" Ishka yelled at the rogue.

"Umm…this really isn't the time to talk right now, guys…look!" Valerica pointed towards a large group of incoming demons.

Battle broke out once more as the blood elves and the draenei trio fought off the attackers.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

At the peak of Black Temple, Azachondrius was quick to locate a cornered human. As he landed, the dread lord stomped imposingly towards the brown-haired human.

"Ah, you must be Kanrethad Ebonlocke…demons speak highly and cruelly of your great power," Azachondrius began.

The warlock's demonic green eyes followed him sharply as a deadly grin crossed his features. Kanrethad walked out of his corner closer towards the demon leader with an unexplained resolve.

The Overlord found it amusing as he watched the human pass by several demons. Kanrethad was now surrounded by four doom lords, dozens of doom guards, imps, and one pit lord. Several Felhounds quickly ran up the sides of the Temple and barked menacingly at the warlock.

"I know the names of many great demon lords…yours escapes me however. Might I know your name first?" the warlock smiled suggestively.

"You think knowing my name will give you power over me? I am no simple demon lord, warlock…I am AZACHONDRIUS the Supreme death knight! Bane of the light, Slayer of Gods, and Lord of the Nathrezim! Tremble whelp!"

"Yes…I am quivering with anticipation," Kanrethad mocked him with an uncaring grin.

"I see you have not heard of my infamous lordship? I expected as much…your race is too young to know of the deeds I have wrought upon countless worlds!" the demon lord laughed.

Kanrethad's eyes glowed even more profusely as green fire began to erupt form his arms and back. It slowly covered his entire body until his was now covered like a green bonfire.

"It is quite interesting to see a human wielding Felfire, in fact it is near impossible unless you yourself are a demon…I wonder, warlock. Where did you acquire the secrets of felfire? Such a thing is not common knowledge amongst even most demons. Who is your master?" Azachondrius asked interested.

"This is not felfire. For felfire is merely a corrupted unrefined imitation of arcane fire. This is a chaos ember born of the primordial flame. This is REAL fire," Kanrethad replied. Upon finishing his comment, the green aura of flames radiating from Kanrethad soon changed several colors. It was now a mixture of green, purple, and orange.

"Almost all types of primary magics typically fall into two main categories…arcane, or divine. Most subschools of arcane magic include: Fel, frost, fire, and runic magic…except the fire born of arcane is merely a false flame. The same is true for holy fire which merely exists as the divine imitation. A lie…True fire is born outside of arcane and divine. True fire is chaos…true fire is primordial life. True fire is antagonistic to everything the titans stood for. Ragnaros the Firelord is one such ember of true fire. That is why he is the greatest of the elemental lords," Kanrethad continued.

The demon eyed him surprised, "You share an interesting perspective with Lord Sargeras regarding the universe. Though I find myself curious as to how a simple mortal managed to acquire such a powerful ember? The Kiln of Chaos was destroyed long ago by the titans."

"Now that is the question isn't it?! How could a simple mortal obtain something a demon could not? I will become a new Firelord!" Kanrethad exclaimed proudly.

Azachondrius gripped Shadowmourne tightly and grinned, "Then, I suppose you wouldn't mind handing over the Codex? Your goal does not interfere with mine."

"No…" Kanrethad replied disrespectfully.

"I will enjoy watching you die then…warlock," the demon grinned malevolently as he jerked his head signaling his demon lieutenants to attack. The pit lord was the first to charge and made a mad dash for Kanrethad. Much to everybody's surprise, a stream of magic launched from Kanrethad's eyes and into the pit lord's. It completely stopped in its tracks.

Several Doomlords followed suit but found themselves falling into the same trap. "Do not look into his eyes! Slay the warlock! Slay the human!"

The fire surrounding Kanrethad quickly erupted in a devastating explosion murdering many unfortunate demons caught in the wake. Azachondrius simply braced through it and watched with fascination as Kanrethad began to transform.

Greenish black wings erupted from his back as well as horns. Amber and purple fire radiated around his green flames like a secondary aura. Before long he was undergoing a demonic metamorphasis. Upon its completion, a powerful winged, and fiery demon stood before the Dreadlord.

Azachondrius shook his head and laughed, "You mock Felmagic, yet you yourself wield it? I see you are practically a demon yourself? Why do you oppose me then? We are after all…of the same breed."

"That is where you are wrong…" the warlock replied.

His mind telepathically linked to all of the surrounding Doomlords and the pit lord forcing them to turn against Azachondrius.

The Nathrezim leader found the sight interesting, "I see Kil'jaeden did not exaggerate when he spoke of your power…truly, you are an impressive warlock, but your little game will have to end prematurely I'm afraid. Give me the Codex…perhaps if you hand it over, then I can welcome you into our ranks. Sargeras would find your philosophy to his approval."

"I serve no one!" the transformed warlock roared as he flew towards Azachondrius. The flames in his clawed hand soon formed into a massive Zweihander made completely out of fire.

"Then you can embrace your own emptiness when I cast your soul into the abyss!" Azachondrius laughed.

Kanrethad wielded his fiery weapon with one hand as he swung it towards the Dreadlord. Runic Frost erupted in all directions as Shadowmourne parried the attack. With his superior might, Azachondrius quickly redirected the warlock before delivering a powerful clawed swipe across his chest.

The attack caused Kanrethad to howl in agony as frost began to form over his wound. He quickly unleashed a surge of fire in an attempt to melt it. While he was doing this, the enslaved demons all attempted to attack Azachondrius.

The colossal pit lord swung its bulky fiery weapon in furious arcs ending with a swift tail swipe. The dreadlord narrowly dodged it as he flew into the air. Two of the Doomlords launched shadow bolts towards him from below as the other two pursued him into the sky.

He easily butchered both of them before turning his gaze back towards the demonic Kanrethad below. Much to his surprise, the warlock flew after him. They traded blows back and forth high above the temple's peak.

"You say you wield the chaos flame…you must serve Cthugha I take it?! Why would you deny your master's arrival? Unless…you stole that ember didn't you?" the Nathrezim overlord taunted. A howling blizzard followed his shout as well as a surge of shadow magic. Catching Kanrethad off guard, Azachondrius gripped the warlock's sword arm and swung Shadowmourne down leaving a devastating gash across his midsection.

The warlock could no longer maintain his flight as Azachondrius released his grip. As he fell, the demon lord dove after him following his long descent with a powerful, kick leaving a massive crater on the side of the temple wall.

Azachondrius stood over the supposedly defeated warlock with a grin, "I was toying with you…if this battle had been for real, you'd have already been dead. Now, I will ask you one last time. Tell me where the Codex is…and I will entertain the thought of letting you go,"

Before he had time to react, Azachondrius felt a sharp fiery blade impale him through the chest. Kanrethad had managed to stab him in his distraction. The demon Overlord reared back in a frenzied rage bringing Shadowmourne down for the kill, but the warlock teleported out of sight.

The fiery blade impaling Azachondrius's chest flickered for a moment before a massive flashover followed erupting into a fiery explosion.

This fire appeared extremely effective against the Dreadlord as it charred a better portion of his armor and skin. He growled in pain as she tried to shake off the blinding surprise attack. During this time, Kanrethad managed to recover and tackled Azachondrius as hard as possible.

He went flying with the dreadlord in his grip and was especially sure to hold his weapon arm still. As the two ascended into the sky, Kanrethad bit him multiple times and clawed against his face. The Nathrezim leader growled painfully as he tried to pry the warlock off. Then his eyes widened when he noticed Kanrethad's body flickering.

Bracing himself, the demon channeled as much frost magic as possible to counter the inevitable explosion. The aftermath was devastating as it caused a powerful eruption of steam followed by hot rain. The water seemed to be effective in negating Kanrethad's fire as the Dreadlord tried to freeze it.

He drew in all of the ice around Kanrethad and trapped him in a frozen orb. "Goodbye…" the demon stated simply before launching the orb back towards the peak of the temple. The blast caught the two surviving doomlords as well as the pit lord in their radius impaling all three with countless ice shards. Embers flickered everywhere as it rained fire and water throughout the Valley. Azachondrius slowly landed and glanced at the defeated warlock amused.

Then much to his astonishment a green flame appeared nearby followed by the arrival of a young girl. He turned his gaze upon her and laughed, "A child here? How amusing…"

The girl quickly set fire to Kanrethad reigniting him and causing his wounds to heal. The transformed warlock glanced over at his twin tailed daughter horrified, "Tira…no…no you can't be here! You're dead! No…no…get away from me!"

He tried to get away from her, but chains quickly erupted out of nowhere holding him in place. "You're dead! You died five years ago!" Kanrethad yelled terrified.

Tira's voice sounded deep and demonic as she turned to face, Azachondrius, "Kil'jaeden neglected to mention that I would be overseeing this matter personally."

Azachondrius immediately recognized the voice and dropped to his knees, "Master…I did not realize it was you."

"I will see to it that this warlock is given to his new master…as for the Codex, there is more you need to know. Kanrethad hid it in Shattrah and I gave it to Arthas. This is not by mistake. I have been watching his progress through the enchantments inscribed within. He is becoming a threat…one that needs to be dealt with," the demonic voiced "Tira" commanded.

"If you had the Codex all along, master, then why didn't you just open the portal to Xerreth in the first place?" Azachondrius asked surprised.

"There is much you have missed in your absence. I will explain our plan to you later. For now, it is imperative that the Lich King be allowed to keep the tome. So long as he hoards it in the belief that he is warding off the Legion, then we will have the upper hand and be able to follow his progress. Your distraction here has proven most valuable in luring the defenses away from Azeroth. See to it that Arthas finds his way back home…hahahahaha! There is a pleasant surprise waiting for him," the demon voiced "Tira" laughed.

"W-who are you?!" Kanrethad demanded fearfully as he looked at his fake daughter. It turned its burning eyes upon him and chuckled, "Come, now, Kanrethad…did you think Cthugha would so easily allow your access to a chaos ember? The Legion sees all…and you belong to us now. You will find that we are of a similar mindset…and that we both share a dislike for the titans and their 'grand plan.'"

Kanrethad's eyes widened fully as he gasped, "You…you're…"

"Come on…say it!" Tira grinned evilly.

"The forest in on fire! Xar il romath da tidesbi! " Kanrethad roared at the top of his lungs. It sounded demonic and raspy as it echoed throughout the valley. Kanrethad could only hope that his fellow warlock partner, Jubeka, was able to hear his coded warning. The second half of his shout was a demonic insult warning her of who it was.

Azachondrius and "Tira" looked at surprised by the demonic insult. Kanrethad was swiftly knocked unconscious as a stream of magic constricted him.

Without another word, green fire surrounded both "Tira" and Kanrethad causing both to disappear in a flash of flames. Not long afterwards, Azachondrius turned his gaze towards the sky and saw what appeared to be an explosion followed by a blue star radiating above Shadowmoon Valley. A wide grin crossed his face, "As always, you are one step ahead of everything, master. Hahahahahaha!"

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Arthas looked down below as he shined brightly over the devastated Valley. He was quick to locate Vyara and several blood elves battling off the last bastion of the demon army.

Deciding that Illidan was his highest priority at the moment, Arthas looked around for Maiev. He was quick to locate her. Sweeping in fast and practically unseen, the Lich King plucked her off the battlefield and carried her away.

The night elf fearfully looked around and soon realized Arthas was carrying her bridle style. "Arthas!? What the hell?! When did you get back, and are we flying?! Wait…are those wings?!" She ranted worriedly as she clung to the man tighter.

Arthas looked down at her and smiled, "You're going to tell me where Illidan's body is…"

"Bu-but…A-arthas what are you planning?!" She demanded concerned.

His green eyes glowed a deep runic blue as he focused his attention forward. In his sights he noticed a glowing blue waypoint of some kind. Then realization followed as he remembered that Frostmourne could locate the bodies of the souls within it.

Disregarding Maiev's protests, Arthas was quick to locate a shallow grave to the southern side of the temple. It was unmarked, and clearly untouched signifying that nobody had ever visited it.

Touching down, Arthas released Maiev from his grip and smiled, "You were right about Illidan's soul lingering in darkness…but I got him out of there."

"Arthas you can't be serious! Wha-what did you even see in there?!" She asked horrified.

Arthas looked at her for a long moment and sighed, "You're better off not knowing."

"I can't let you resurrect Illidan…do you realize what kind of a person he is?! He can't just come back…it would put countless people in danger!" Maiev tried to reason as Arthas uncovered the grave.

The man looked over at her and sighed, "It's only because of you that I can even do this to begin with. We all have a part to play in events to come. Illidan will join me in my Crusade to destroy the legion…and you will as well."

"Where does this crazy plan of yours even end?!" Maiev demanded fearfully.

Arthas simply smiled, "I don't know…that's why I want to find out. Isn't this exciting?"

"Hardly…wait, what makes you think I want any part of this?! What if I refuse?" Maiev asked shocked.

"You won't…" Arthas said simply as he readied Frostmourne.

The night elf huntress looked uncertain for a moment. She could only watch in disbelief as Arthas' Val'kyr formed a circle around the grave and began to channel necromantic power into it. From the grave the decaying corpse of the dead Illidan rose from the ground. Arthas pointed his sword towards the body and a single soul flew from the tip. As Illidan's soul rejoined his body, a blinding light followed.

Maiev only watched with horror as Illidan's decayed skin began to heal in a strange runic green. Arcane power swelled around his body empowering the now resurrected Lord of Outland. As his glowing green "eyes" shot open, Illidan uttered, "Rain?!"

He was staring at the heavy downpour of rain falling from the sky. The night elf looked around confused for a moment before noticing Arthas in front of him. The demon night elf simply grinned, "I see you were not mistaken in your promise…Arthas."

"Welcome back, Illidan…I have somebody here who has a gift for you," Arthas pointed towards Maiev. Illidan's fiery burning eyes turned towards the woman angrily as he charged.

Maiev barely had time to react as Illidan grabbed her by the throat and held her off the ground. He ripped her helmet off her head and stared furiously at the woman. She gasped for breath as she tried to pull his arm off. It was unsuccessful due to Illidan's far superior strength.

"You dared to wield my warglaives!?" Illidan demanded angrily as his grip tightened and he raised her higher.

Desperately, Maiev looked over at the nearby Lich King, "A-A-Ar-thas! Help!" Her gasps indicated that she was choking. Walking over towards them, Arthas placed one hand on Illidan's shoulder signaling the night elf to stop.

He held his grip for a moment longer before throwing Maiev to the ground. Wasting no time, Illidan pulled his Warglaives off her back and looked at his weapons eagerly, "Yes…"

Gasping for air, Maiev looked up at Illidan fearfully. The demon hunter held the blade of one of his glaives to the woman's throat and stared at her bitterly, "Not so high and mighty now are you, Maiev?"

"Arthas…why?" she panted as she looked over at the Lich King.

"Don't mind him…this is between you and me! Do you know where I've been?! What I've seen!? I will condemn you to the same fate!" Illidan growled as fire erupted over the green Warglaives of Azzinoth.

With one swift motion Illidan brought down his other glaive in an attempt to stab Maiev through the heart. However, Frostmourne quickly intercepted it as Arthas pushed Illidan away from Maiev. The demon hunter glared at him questioningly, "What are you doing? Don't get in my way!"

"You can't kill her, Illidan…she works for me now," Arthas stated.

"She killed me!" the night elf shot back angrily.

"Yes, and I helped ruin your life too…we're not on the best of terms here, but I think it's time to move on. How's about we all just leave the past in the past?" Arthas replied calmly.

Maiev quickly spoke up, "No, I don't work for you! Are you insane Arthas?! I'll be killed if I'm seen conspiring with you and Illidan!"

"You already helped me reforge Frostmourne…you're on my side now whether you like it or not. For all your help, Maiev…Illidan and I will make sure you're kept safe," Arthas simply explained.

The demon hunter simply scoffed, "Perhaps I can overlook your transgressions if you explain to me why you gave a Moonlight Ring to Arthas. There's only three of them…and they're only worn by women."

"Only women huh? I thought this ring looked a bit dashing," Arthas noted as he held his hand up in a fake camp way.

"Elune ordered me to give him one," the huntress replied.

Illidan simply cocked his head, "That seems unusual for a male of another race to wear a high priestess moonlight ring. Though it's light was a pleasant surprise down…" The night elf didn't finish his sentence. It was obvious that he did not want to talk about what he and Arthas experienced during their freefall into the abyss. Arthas was quick to notice this and carried on the conversation.

"Considering the big help this Moonlight Ring was, I definitely consider Elune well worth my time now," Arthas stated assuredly. Illidan simply shrugged carelessly, "Well now what?"

"We're going to wreak some havoc on the way…that is if you're up for it?" Arthas suggested. Illidan nodded, "Certainly…I am eager wield these glaives in battle again."

The huntress slowly stood up and looked between the two of them disbelievingly, "I'm going to be labeled a monster for setting this in motion…how in the world did you convince Illidan to join you?"

"He presented me with respect…something you are poorly acquainted with, Maiev," Illidan answered.

"I honestly don't know how to deal with the two of you…Goddess help me," Maiev sighed in annoyance.

"Did I hear you correctly? You 'don't know' something?" Illidan simply smirked.

"She's pretty clueless…I can hardly believe this woman killed you, Illidan," Arthas noted.

The demon night elf sighed, "Yes…it is rather embarrassing isn't it?"

Arthas laughed, "So she was your jailer for ten thousand years right? How were the inspections? Did Maiev ever 'get a little rough' with you when you didn't cooperate?"

Illidan nodded, "Yes…she prefers to dominate others in a very raw manner to best describe it."

"I had no idea you were a dominatrix, Maiev…I'm surprised you don't wear leather," Arthas laughed.

"This is no laughing matter! I assure you nothing like that ever happened! Illidan is too much of a brooder," Maiev exclaimed.

The Lich King gave her a curious grin, "Oh? Is that right? So Illidan turned you down then?"

"What?! By the goddess, No! I have never had that kind of…emotion for him!" Maiev shot back.

Arthas glanced over at Illidan who had a somewhat amused look; probably because he had never seen the super serious Maiev Shadowsong falling over her own words.

"So what you're saying is you're in love with me?" Arthas chuckled.

"What?! Don't even think that again…" Maiev tried to recollect her composure as her voice went back to a calm and serious one.

"Aw, she gave me the cold shoulder…guess I better get a new girlfriend eh Illidan?" Arthas joked.

"What makes you think we were dating in the first place?! Did I miss some weird human social ritual or something? Explain to me exactly how that thought crossed your mind?" The woman demanded.

"Well we were against a wall, and you had this girly face while-" Arthas began but was quickly interrupted.

"There's really no need for you to say any of that! SO anyways, what's our next plan of action?" Maiev tried her best to get off the topic.

Illidan raised a brow and laughed, "Did Maiev turn into a clumsy maiden after she killed me? How peculiar. I think I'm going to like this little arrangement. You neglected to mention this fun little extra in our deal."

"F-f-fun?! W-what are you saying?" she asked concerned.

"Did you ever know how much of a predator she was, Illidan? Maiev has been making passes at me since I got here. She even stalks me now," Arthas told the horned night elf with a joking grin.

"Hardly surprising…she stalked me for many years," Illidan shook his head, "Anyways…how exactly did Elune go about sending you to find Arthas? I take it this is a matter of importance if she would involve herself in a worldly affair."

"Yeah I've been wondering that too. If Elune is physically in Azeroth, then why doesn't she ever do anything? Couldn't she have come after me herself?" Arthas asked.

"The Moon Goddess does not involve herself in Azeroth's affairs typically…her wishing to see you is something of great significance I assure you. I wish I knew more, but I honestly don't know what she wants." Maiev sighed.

"Say that one more time," Illidan laughed.

"You're just going to have to go see her for yourself to find out, Arthas," Maiev answered. She was doing her best to ignore the amused expression of Illidan.

Arthas simply shrugged, "Well whatever…we've been here long enough. Let's go kill some demons."

Illidan beamed with excitement as he gazed at the battle ensuing in the distance.

Wasting no time, Arthas, Illidan and his flight of Val'kyr took off leaving Maiev behind. The woman was quick to voice her disapproval, "Hey wait! What about me!?"

Answering her reply, the sound of a horse shrilling from behind caught her attention. Invincible slowly lowered his head granting Maiev permission to get on. Ever since Arthas' trip into the other plane, the horse had been randomly flying around Shadowmoon depressed. The huntress was thankful however that Invincible noticed her.

Arthas and Illidan didn't make it far before a large group of demons surrounded them. They made quick work of the doom guards, many of which were damn near petrified at the sight of Illidan and Arthas together.

A shadowy figure quickly intercepted them with more demons and laughed, "Hahahahaha, so you have returned from your pilgrimage into Otherworld. I see you brought a friend back with you."

Arthas and Illidan both watched in interest as the shadow formed into a massive, armored Dreadlord. The horned demon was larger and more intimidating than any Dreadlord Arthas had ever seen before, but nevertheless he simply locked a death glare onto it.

"Otherworld…what did you just say?" Arthas asked confused.

The Dreadlord chuckled, "Yes…every Lich King takes the pilgrimage there."

"Demon filth…to what do we owe this displeasure?" Illidan asked darkly.

Azachondrius simply smiled as he eyed Illidan up and down, "Illidan…ah yes, you were Kil'jaeden's little bitch weren't you? Where's your blindfold at? Did some mortal take it as a prize?"

The night elf growled furiously and wasted no time diving in to fight the demon. Arthas did the same. The two sided assault was almost too much to handle as Azachondrius barely managed to hold them off.

Illidan furiously, but precisely, cleaved in skillful arcs easily bypassing the Dreadlord's defenses. The Overlord backstepped and leapt into the air with his wings outstretched, only to meet with a crushing sweep from Frostmourne easily staggering him.

It was only at this point, Arthas noticed Shadowmourne. He quickly waved Illidan to stop for a moment before speaking, "Shadowmourne?! Doesn't that weapon belong to Raze?"

Illidan paced impatiently as fury burned in his eyes. The Dreadlord held the axe up sideways showing the trapped orc within it. Arthas simply shook his head at the sight, "So…you're the demon that was within Frostmourne I take it? Care to explain how that happened?"

Illidan stopped pacing momentarily as his curiosity got the better of him. It was at this point Maiev finally caught up with the group.

"Thanks for leaving me behind!" She yelled at Arthas sarcastically.

The death knight ignored her much to her surprise signifying that something important had his attention. She quickly spotted Azachondrius and dismounted Invincible.

Azachondrius did not even seem to notice or care about her arrival as he focused his gaze on Arthas, "Frostmourne consumed my soul…as it does to all of its wielders. I don't know exactly what your master Ner'zhul has told you, but I was once the wielder of that blade as was he…"

Illidan raised a brow skeptically, "Explain yourself…what is the origin of Frostmourne and the Lich King then?"

The Dreadlord simply grinned sadistically as he stared between Arthas and Illidan, "The Lich King is nothing more than a pawn…a pathetic toy…a slave. He exists only to wield the blade in its never-ending thirst for blood and souls. Frostmourne…cannot be controlled by anyone. It has only one master…and he does not share power! You are nothing more than the next link in the chain, Arthas! The next pawn to be sacrificed in this game of fates! There is nothing special about you, or your cause. You think you're the first to take up arms against the order of things? HAHAHAHAHA! You will end up alone and hollow down in the pits of the abyss like all who came before you! Frostmourne will betray you when you least expect it! Just like Icecrown…HAHAHAHA!"

Runic energy began to radiate violently from Arthas as he directed all of his killing intent towards the demon. Azachondrius simply laughed at the Lich King's growing anger, "What's the matter? Did I hurt your feelings? It must be sad to learn that your life is nothing more than a mistake…a hollow and fragile mockery of existence."

"I'm going to skin you, tear out your heart, and eat it!" Arthas roared as he flew in. Azachondrius simply continued to laugh as the two exchanged blows in a whirlwind of runic energy.

It wasn't long before they were locked in place as Frostmourne pressed against the shaft of Shadowmourne. Azachondrius' strength was much greater than Arthas expected as the demon tried to overpower him. However, a swift high kick quickly knocked him back long enough to unleash several swings.

As he attempted to block these attacks, Azachondrius felt himself getting blindsided as one of Illidan's war glaives stabbed through his wing. "Burn!" Illidan roared as he unleashed a wave of green fire. He added to it with a following thrust from his offhand glaive.

Unable to hold off the assault from both sides, the demon soon felt Frostmourne impale him in the other wing. Both Illidan and Arthas seemed to have the same thought cross their minds as they tried to slice Azachondrius' wings off. It proved extremely effective as fire, ice, and blood rained everywhere and his wings came off.

The demon howled painfully and barely had time to look up before he noticed Illidan jump back into the air. The night elf dove in full force and double high kicked Azachondrius knocking him to the ground. Unable to recover in time, he soon felt several devastating cleaves from Frostmourne.

Both Illidan and Arthas skillfully spun their weapons before all three blades stabbed Azachondrius into the ground. They both stepped back and traded looks of approval at their handiwork. Maiev looked amazed but also horrified by the sight, "Moon Goddess….that was frightening! You two destroyed him! Oh Elune, forgive me for this…"

Both of them turned around and gave her odd glances. "What nonsense are you spouting back there?" Illidan asked with a clear disapproving tone.

"H-he didn't stand a chance…t-that was THE Azachondrius! You two are scary as a team…" Maiev stated.

Arthas and Illidan traded slightly amused glances before the latter spoke, "The Lich King and the Lord of Outland…every demon's worst nightmare."

A disgusting crackling sound quickly caught their attention as the three turned back towards Azachondrius' body. Shadow magic poured from his body as his wounds began to heal, before Azachondrius rose to his feet. His wings quickly grew back much to their disbelief. The Dreadlord had a beaming grin on his face, "Hahahaha! It's been a long time since I've faced foes strong enough for me to use my real power against…"

"He's still alive?!" Maiev asked shocked.

Much to their horror, Azachondrius began to transform. His size nearly doubled, as did Shadowmourne and his skin began to turn extremely dark, almost pitch black, as a white aura radiated around him.

"Illidan, what the hell is that?" Arthas asked assuming the night elf had a clue about demon transformations.

The night elf growled, "I've never seen a demon power up like this before."

Azachondrius laughed maniacally, "HAHAHAHA! Did you think me defeated so easily? I will show you the true powers at my command!"

Before anybody had time to react, the Dreadlord moved at near unseen ghostly speeds as he shot between Arthas and Illidan. Both could barely block his first attack, but the secondary and third attacks knocked each of them to the ground.

Azachondrius grinned as he swept Shadowmourne across the air causing dozens of spirits to erupt out of it. The spirits looked rabid and empowered as they flew in maddened orbits around the duo. Using their own separate abilities to push through them, Arthas and Illidan were both met with several blackened orbs flying towards them.

They both dodged assuming the attacks were large shadow bolts, but surprise caught them as the orbs formed into a larger one between them erupting into a massive shadow nova. Before the Nathrezim leader could follow up, a flying ring blade quickly sliced his hand off before flying back to Maiev.

The downed duo took this time to recover but could only watch with disbelief as Azachondrius' hand grew back. The Dreadlord's eyes glowed blood red as he held his free hand up. Illidan, Arthas, and even Maiev all felt their blood boiling as they were unable to move.

"Is that the best you can do? Hahahahaha! I expected more from you Arthas…so weak," the Dreadlord cackled.

Then much to everybody's surprise, Invincible charged in just in time to block Shadowmourne from cleaving the three of them. Time all but seemed to stop as Arthas heard the last painful cries of his beloved horse. Invincible's soul was then absorbed into Shadowmourne.

The demon simply laughed, "What a stupid animal! Hahahaha!"

"INVINCIBLE! NOOOOOO!" Arthas roared with fury unrestrained. His wings glowed a brighter color as arcane energy exploded out of his body. This managed to free Illidan and Maiev as well. The demon night elf erupted into full green flames, "You're going to die, demon!"

The Dreadlord watched amused as Illidan and Arthas both glowed with intense power. "ARGGHHHH! DIE!" Arthas roared frighteningly. His voice boomed in his Lich King tone as he flew towards Azachondrius with a bloodlust never before seen.

Even Illidan slightly cringed as Arthas maniacally hacked away at the demon. The Dreadlord retreated back trying to distance himself from Arthas. Azachondrius' eyes widened with shock as Arthas channeled a large amount of lightning over Frostmourne. He pointed it towards the sky channeling it into a powerful blue twister.

The lightning tornado annihilated everything in sight as it surrounded them. Arthas' Val'kyr, which had been remaining back until this point all gathered around Maiev and Illidan raising a powerful anti-magic ward.

Illidan didn't seem to care, as he grinned at Arthas' attack. The night elf joined in as he flew high into the sky. The winds had picked up tenfold as they swirled the raining fire and ice into a chaotic, elemental storm. Illidan could barely make out the sight of Arthas down below going berserk against Azachondrius. The demon Overlord was using everything in his arsenal to hold Arthas back, but it seemed completely ineffective as the furious Lich King kept on charging.

Azachondrius tried to fly away through the powerful elemental storm, but only met with both of Illidan's glaives impaling him through his wings. Unable to move, Azachondrius flailed around for a moment, until Illidan sent him crashing into the ground with both wings impaled.

Unable to move, Azachondrius looked up horrified at the sight of a Arthas walking towards him. The sky was still crackling with lightning and fire, but the ground froze with each step Arthas took. Right as the Lich King reached the impaled demon, Illidan landed behind him.

Arthas' eyes were fully glowing, but the fury in them was as clear as day. The human let out a devastating shout as he brought his blade down hacking Azachondrius to pieces. Blood splashed across his face and armor as Arthas relentlessly mutilated the demon.

Illidan simply stood with there with a stoic face and watched with approval as Arthas continued for a full minute. Finally, the Lich King stopped and was panting heavily. Azachondrius' body could barely be identified as it was a complete gore-splattered mess.

Both only watched with confusion as the corpse began to melt into shadows before reforming to Azachondrius' original body further away. The demon fearfully disappeared in a flash of flames before either Arthas or Illidan could make a move.

Finally, the elemental storm seemed to subside as it was only raining water now, but Arthas could only stare at the body of his dead horse. He walked over towards it and dropped to his knees as he embraced the dead beast's head in his arms.

Neither Illidan, Maiev, or his Val'kyr said a word as the man hugged his dead friend. Finally after a minute of silence, Maiev slowly walked over towards him. She tried to reach for his shoulder, but was stopped by Illidan. The night elf shook his head, signaling her to not interfere.

Arthas finally rose to his feet and looked away with a sad face, "Come on…we should go."

"Bu-but Arthas, w-what about your horse? Ca-can't you bring it back?" Maiev began. Illidan quickly face palmed at the impudence of her remark.

Arthas simply turned around and sent her a cold stare, "His soul is in Shadowmourne…there's nothing I can do now. We need to get moving…"

"I'm sorry about your friend…if you want to talk abo-" Maiev began.

"I'm fine," Arthas interrupted callously. He was clearly not in the mood to talk about what just happened.

"Yeah but-" Maiev persisted.

"I said I'm fine!" Arthas yelled. His voice echoed angrily as it caused the night elf woman to flinch.

She simply held her head down in shame, "Sorry…"

"Where should we go now, partner?" Illidan asked Arthas changing the subject and trying to somewhat alleviate the tension.

The human thought for a moment, "I suppose it's time we paid Elune a visit. The legion isn't going anywhere for now."

"A good plan, by the way…do you mind if I drop by and say hi to Akama?" Illidan suggested with a dark grin. He seemed to be doing his best to lift the mood.

Deciding to repress his emotions, Arthas played along with it, "Not a bad idea…let's make sure they know just who they're fucking with, now."

Maiev stood there quiet and uncertain as she didn't move a muscle. Arthas quickly glanced over at her and put a hand on her shoulder. She yelped in surprise and looked up and him fearfully. The man sent her an amused grin, "Don't think I've forgotten about you…"

"A-are you serious about me coming with you two? I-I don't know how I feel about this…" she said timidly.

"We're together now," Arthas said with a quick laugh.

"W-what do you mean, 'together?!'" she asked embarrassedly.

Illidan found her behavior amusing as he simply shook his head at the sight. Arthas gave her a quick wink, "However you want to imagine it…"

"H-hey! W-what are you saying exactly?!" Maiev demanded. Much to her annoyance, Arthas and Illidan both simply turned to fly away.

The woman sighed as her eyes followed him into the distance, 'Poor Arthas…it must be killing him inside to hold back his pain. Even now he's trying to cut up to make me feel better…people seriously misjudged him.'

One of the Val'kyr quickly picked the woman up before she had time to react as they all followed after Illidan and Arthas.

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The remainder of the demons were finally dead as the collective group of everybody was gathered. Many of the leaders were discussing the strange disastrous occurrences that had happened near the peak of Black Temple and other areas.

Akama seemed shocked by the sight of rain in Shadowmoon, but pushed his curiosity aside as he made his way to the gathered leaders of the Ashen Verdict. Tirion, Darion, Sylvanas, and surprisingly Jaina who had just recently arrived were now all gathered around discussing the situation.

Sarkon shook his head, "We tried to get in closer to the peak of the temple, but there were too many powerful demons there. I did notice a battle between two demon lords though. Perhaps there was a mutiny?"

Kurga sighed, "That green demon looked very unusual…unlike any demon I've ever seen. It had a strange colored fire and was fighting the Dreadlord. I couldn't really get in close because of all the fire."

"But you did identify the demon leader though right? I still haven't seen him?" Seirian asked the orc warlock.

She shook her head, "Azachondrius or whatever his name is? I think I saw him, but I wouldn't be surprised if he fled now that his army is dead."

Ironhoof and Aveil both came charging towards the raid leaders along with Anerius. The large black tauren was the first to speak, "There were sightings of some kind of lightning tornado on the southern end of the temple. There was too much elemental interference for us to get in close."

Sarkon nodded, "Aveil, did you notice anything strange about it?"

The troll shrugged, "Yeah, mon…it was Shamanistic powah all right, but it was sometin crazy like I've nevah seen. Though da rain be sometin else…"

Seirian sighed as he walked over towards the Ashen Verdict leaders to report in, "Excuse me Lord Tirion, we still haven't located the Dreadlord in charge of this demon army yet. There were sightings of battle both at the peak of the temple and the southern end. Our scouts reported strange elemental occurrences to the sides and some kind of colorful fire near the peak."

The Highlord of the Argent Crusade nodded, "Thank you grand marshal, have your people do a secondary search around the outside of the temple whenever we gather up the fallen. I want to make sure we didn't miss anything. I wouldn't be surprised if Arthas was trying to slip out in this confusion."

"I searched the temple…there was no sign of Arthas inside!" Sylvanas hissed angrily.

Darion nodded, "There was no luck on my end either. Though…some of my death knights did report spotting a winged undead horse flying around the Valley."

Akama quickly joined in the conversation, "Do any of you know what that blue light that showed up over the temple was? Ever since it appeared, Maiev has been missing."

"She's in league with Arthas! Of course she's 'missing!'" Sylvanas yelled.

"She was here during the battle. Did you not see her?" Akama questioned.

The Banshee queen focused a death stare on Akama, "How could you just let Arthas walk into the temple?! WHERE IS HE?! I know he's here! I heard him yelling!"

"I do not know…" Akama replied. The Ashtongue leader did not want to tell anybody else about Arthas' trip into the Spirit world.

Jaina who had been quiet up until that point huffed in annoyance, "Would you just calm down already, Sylvanas? Arthas has been rumored to be reasonable since he got here. When we find him, we're only going to talk…"

Before the Forsaken leader could mouth off a reply, Tirion spoke first, "We still haven't figured out what has even happened here. Where are those blood elf conspirators?! Bring them here!"

"Yes sir!" Seirian nodded before taking off to fetch the defective Scryers along with Aeryssa and Valerica. It wasn't long before the paladin had all of them behind him. However, much to Sylvanas' disapproval, the three draenei teenagers along with a large group of Aldor were also coming.

Tirion focused a hard stare at Hobb and Vyara, "You two know where Arthas went and why. Start talking!"

However much to everybody's complete and utter surprise, a blinding light filled their vision as something smashed into the clearing in front of them. Through the rain and the dust of the battletorn ground, everybody could only drop their jaws in disbelief at the sight of Arthas and Illidan.

Many of the Ashtongue Deathsworn and other random soldiers nearby quickly recognized Arthas and were flabbergasted. Though the sight of Illidan with him was enough to incite near panic as everybody fearfully gasped and backed away. Gossip erupted through the ranks like a plague and quickly reached everybody's ears.

Tirion's eyes nearly shot out of his head as he saw the twilight runic wings of Arthas as well as a completely reforged Frostmourne. Akama could have had a heart attack when he spotted Illidan glaring at him. Sylvanas actually dropped her bow and could only stare with utter disbelief at the sight before her.

Jaina was the first to speak, "A-Arthas?! What happened to you?"

The Lich King didn't even give her the courtesy of his attention as he smiled at Tirion, "Hello guys…I'm back."

"By all that is holy…what did you do?! Are those wings?!" Tirion demanded horrified.

Arthas held Frostmourne up and carelessly twirled the blade around, "I came to tell you guys one thing…Don't fuck with us!"

"Illidan! How is Illidan alive?!" Akama demanded between raspy gasps.

The demon hunter chuckled darkly, "Frightening isn't it? To know that not even death can spare you my fury."

"Dark Spirit…why did you bring him back?!" Akama asked Arthas horrified.

"By the light, what have you done!? Di-Did you resurrect Illidan the Lord of Outland?!" Seirian asked shocked.

Arthas turned his gaze upon the paladin and grinned, "Yes I did…Seirian."

"You know my name?!" the paladin asked surprised.

Arthas gave him a simple nod, "I never forget a face…Knight-Lieutenant. Oh but you're a grand marshal now…big damn hero right?"

Seirian gave him an angry glare, "You remember that?!"

"Of course I do…I remember you, Mortukai, and even Nodaer," Arthas said as he searched the crowd for the undead mage and Anerius. Mortukai didn't appear to be in sight much to his disapproval.

The blood elf rogue however, was quick to charge into the clearing, "You knew my father?!"

The Lich King didn't bother answering as he turned his gaze towards Darion, "I'm surprised you don't have anything to say, Darion?"

"What is there even left to say? You have destroyed everything in my life…and robbed me of an honorable death," Darion replied.

Illidan simply shook his head, "So this was little crowd of 'heroes' that tried to kill you?"

Arthas nodded, "No, these important people were too busy letting their underlings do all the work…right Tirion?"

"W-wings?!" a draenei girl interrupted. Arthas glanced over and noticed Ishka run into the fray towards him. He didn't make an effort to stop her as the teenager got closer, however, the arrival of Arthas' Val'kyr soon forced her back. Everybody gasped as the winged harbingers surrounded Arthas and Illidan shielding them.

One of them was carrying Maiev and placed her on the ground near Arthas and Illidan. Jaina looked at the night elf with utter shock, "Maiev Shadowsong? W-what are you doing with them?!"

The Banshee Queen was still in a state of shock, but Sylvanas finally managed to recollect herself as she spoke up again, "Why is everybody betraying us to the Lich King?! Explain yourself night elf!"

Maiev felt completely embarrassed and ashamed as many people, especially Alliance night elves gave her disbelievingly stares.

Arthas answered for her, "Maiev brought me the shards of Frostmourne…for her help, she's now under my protection. She doesn't have to explain herself to any of you."

The night elf woman looked at Arthas somewhat thankfully but at the same time she felt horrible. Everybody else was going to see this as a betrayal when in fact she was only acting on behalf of Elune's wishes.

"You helped kill Illidan, though! Why would you join them, Maiev?!" Jaina asked shocked.

Illidan simply glanced over at Arthas, "I'm liking this more and more by the minute,"

Finally speaking in her own defense, Maiev cut in, "Elune sent me to find Arthas shortly before the battle at Icecrown. By the time I arrived, he had already fled. It is through her command that I helped Arthas and not by any notions of treason. I am still faithful to the Moon Goddess, and Lady Tyrande."

Tirion looked confused by the news, "Elune? What would she possibly want with Arthas?!"

Many of the night elves gasped in surprise as this was a huge deal. Sylvanas crossed her arms and glared at the night elf, "Awfully convenient excuse…you expect me to believe that?!"

"It's true…" Arthas said as he held his hand up showing the Moonlight Ring on his middle finger. His middle finger caused Sylvanas' eye to twitch as she glared daggers at him.

Vyara and Hobb both looked shocked by Arthas' attitude. The blonde battlemage quickly tried to get closer, "Arthas! What happened in there? A-are you okay?"

"Now that you're here, I will be…" Arthas smiled at the woman as he licked his lips. Vyara embarrassedly looked around at everybody's confused expressions. Jaina sent the battlemage a sharp glare, "Is there something going on between you two?"

"Wait, what's going on, Arthas?! How do you know that hussy?!" Maelina demanded.

The Lich King shrugged, "I know a lot of people. Some better than others, right Valerica?"

The paladin blushed deeply as she looked away in complete embarrassment. This whole display had everybody in a confused uproar.

"It's not what you think everybody!" Aeryssa defended her sister.

Arthas nodded his head, "She's right…I haven't mentioned Aeryssa and her sexy black hair yet. Such a babe,"

"Stop that! People are going to go assuming the wrong thing! You know we're getting discharged because of you!" Valerica yelled at the man.

Arthas gave her an amused smile, "Oh really? Sorry to hear…do you want a new job?"

"Why are you saying it so dirty?! Please stop it…" Aeryssa covered her face in embarrassment.

"You're all falling over yourselves like pathetic schoolgirls! Get a grip! This is just Arthas' game, can't you tell!? Jeez…" Darion shook his head.

"It's rather disgusting if you ask me…I fail to see why anyone would fall for that," Sylvanas noted.

Arthas simply scoffed at her remark, "You keep talking like that…I might just fall for you, Sylvanas. No wait…I might just fall for you again." He finished his comment by blowing her a kiss.

"ARTHAS!" Sylvanas screeched furiously as she unleashed a barrage of arrows without hesitation. The Lich King easily stopped the arrows with his hand freezing them in midair.

Sylvanas' jaw dropped as the man reached over to grab one of the arrows. He twirled it around his fingers as if it were a toy before snapping it in half. The remaining arrows all fell to the ground afterwards. The Banshee Queen could barely believe her eyes.

"I've heard enough of all this…you're not leaving this Valley alive Arthas. It's time for you to pay for your crimes!" Tirion stated as he pointed the Ashbringer at Arthas.

Both Illidan and Arthas readied their weapons causing everybody else to fearfully gulp. "Champions, move in! Take down those Val'kyr first! I want eyes on both of them at all times!"

"Wait stop!" Jaina shouted causing everybody to momentarily stop. "Arthas, explain yourself now! Where did you go and what were you doing?! I-I thought you were returning to normal?! I didn't come all this way just to watch you fight," Jaina spoke.

For the first time, Arthas looked at her. The man gave her a cold stare, "Your timing was always terrible, Jaina. Too little too late I'm afraid."

"I'm sorry Arthas! About Stratholme…I-I never meant for you to take it that way. I didn't wan-" Jaina began but Arthas quickly interrupted.

"Save it, Jaina…I honestly don't even care anymore. Whether you're sincere or not makes no difference now," Arthas said as he shifted to a casual whatever tone.

"H-how can you even say that?! All those months in Icecrown…I tried reaching you, tried talking to you, just in the slightest sliver of hope that you were still in there. Do memories of me mean nothing to you?" She asked near heartbroken.

Then much to her complete and utter shock, Arthas reached for something beneath the armor around his neck. He pulled out a locket and handed it to her, "This is yours…"

Jaina could only cry as Arthas started to walk away. Illidan, Maiev and his Val'kyr followed behind him. The crowd began to part both ways as the group moved through. However the sound of an angered voice quickly called behind them.

"You're not escaping this time, coward!" Darion roared as he charged in.

Arthas effortlessly parried his attack before high kicking the man in the head. "You're not going anywhere, Arthas!" Tirion roared fiercely as he took a step closer.

Arthas' Val'kyr all perked up as if battle was nearly imminent, but the Lich King waved them back. The silver haired man gave Tirion a cold stare, "I've been holding back the urge to kill you since you opened your mouth…but I've killed enough people for now. I don't know what any of you have been thinking about me for the past few weeks, and I don't really care. You can either fall in line or get crushed under my heel…but you will not stand in my way!"

"Do you really intend to fight the burning legion? I find that hard to believe with Illidan at your side," Anerius cut in with a skeptical tone.

The Lord of Outland simply chuckled, "You are no prepared for the good news then…"

"We intend to destroy them. Completely and utterly by ANY means necessary. I say this now to the lot of you. This is your last warning; don't come after me again, or I will start killing people. I would prefer if none of you died pointlessly, but I won't hesitate to kill the next self-righteous moron that tries anything stupid," Arthas stated as he looked over the crowd.

Sylvanas found this change of events bizarre more than anybody else present. 'Why would Arthas want to fight the legion?! What the hell is he up to?! And what's with this show of mercy?! He's obviously powerful enough to kill us again. This…is strange.'

"Can we go with you?" Hobb asked as he and his sister made their way closer. Arthas gave him a quick shrug, "Still after all this you want to tag along?"

Hobb and his sister both nodded. Arthas simply shrugged, "Alright sure…anybody else want to come?"

"If any of you dare move a mark I'll execute you for treason!" Sylvanas shouted.

Much to her annoyance, Mortukai silently made his way out of the crowd and over towards Arthas along with Aeryssa and Valerica. Their actions greatly confused everybody. "Hey Arthas…I got that attunement like you asked. It took some favors, but I can make a portal for you…well only if we're on Azeroth though," Vyara spoke up.

"That's fine. we're leaving for the Dark Portal soon," Arthas nodded.

"Wait! I'm going too!" one of the draenei teenagers exclaimed.

Maelina charged over towards Arthas much to everybody's surprise. Ishka and Kaera gave their friend a confused look, "Maelina? You're going with them?"

"Yeah, c'mon, don't you want to go?" she asked.

Ishka looked away for a moment, "But…it's not that simple."

"You're still young…don't get mixed up in this," Arthas told her.

"No…I want to do this," she persisted.

Arthas simply sighed, "You're just a kid…you don't know what you want. Go home, Maelina."

"I don't care what they said about you…you're our friend. I believe in you," she said as she tried to hug him. The sight was quite the shocker for everybody as the draenei teenager hugged Arthas. He was unsure what to do and simply stood there for a moment.

Finally after Maelina broke the hug, Arthas patted her on the head, "You're a cute kid, Maelina…don't ever change."

She blushed heavily and looked away as the man turned to take his leave. However, the sound of Ishka quickly caught his attention, "Wait, Arthas!"

He turned around and saw Kaera and Ishka both run over to hug him as well. It wasn't as long, but they were both crying. Ishka shook her head sobbing, "Why does it have to be like this? You're a good person…you're not the Lich King. You don't have to be the Lich King."

He simply gave her a hard stare, "I am the Lich King…I am the leader of the scourge…I'm the Kingslayer. I'm the monster in your bedtime stories…"

"No! You're wrong! You're a brave, noble, and kind person! Even my mother thinks so. Everybody else thinks you're evil because you're pushing them away and scaring them. Why can't you just be nice?" she asked.

Both Illidan and Maiev traded surprised looks as well as many other individuals. Aeryssa and Valerica found it bittersweet. Many other people were staring at Arthas for that question. He himself didn't even know what to say as he briefly looked over at the crowd behind the draenei girls. Tirion had a hard glare focused on Arthas as did Darion, Sylvanas, and many other people who felt personally wronged by the man.

A short silence passed before Arthas sighed, "Because the world isn't nice. You're still innocent so you don't know what I'm talking about…take this as your first life lesson, Ishka."

The young priestess looked down sadly, "But…you were nice to us."

"I have to go now…" Arthas said callously. Ishka looked sad by his response. Part of her was hoping, no fantasizing with the idea that she could "save" Arthas. Unfortunately, it didn't seem to have any effect on the man. The young priestess was having a hard time dealing with Arthas' rejection.

"Will we ever see you again?" Kaera spoke up sobbing sadly..

"It would be better if you kept your distance…" Arthas simply stated with a downcast face. Without another word, he turned to leave.

However, Ishka was quick to sound off again, "Wait! Before you go…Arthas, do you still have that book the little girl gave you in Shattrah?" Ishka asked.

"Yeah don't you remember Tira Ebonlocke, the demon girl? The leaders said her dad's name was Kanrethad," Kaera added.

This comment immediately caught everybody's attention as they remembered the Codex of Xerreth. Anerius was quick to state the obvious, "Arthas has the Codex of Xerreth!"

The Lich King pulled the demonic book out of his pouch and looked over it for a moment, "Oh yeah, I forgot about this thing."

Illidan quickly recognized it, "You had the Codex of Xerreth? No wonder a demon army was attacking Shadowmoon…wait, that would mean Kanrethad took it from me?!"

"Where did you find it, Illidan?" Arthas asked.

The night elf grinned, "Tichondrius…"

Everybody stared at it intently as Arthas held the Codex in his hand. Frostmourne let out a chilling rumble as Arthas looked over the tome. It felt wrong in his hands. 'Something seems weird about this thing. I probably never should have taken it. I never did find that girl's father out here…what was his name…Kanrethad? Wait…I remember that name now. He was part of my father's court. His daughter died! Then…who the hell was that in Shattrah?!'

"Here, Ishka…give this to your mother, and let her destroy it. I have no need for anything like this," Arthas handed the glowing book towards the young priestess. She along with everybody behind her was shocked by Arthas' actions.

Even Illidan seemed confused by it, but chose not to say anything. "Thank you, Arthas…I'll pray for you. Hopefully we'll meet again one day," Ishka said sadly.

Without another word, Arthas, Illidan and their new entourage were flying away with the Val'kyr.

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Well there's chapter ten. I never expected to get this far, so thanks a lot for the support guys. 100 reviews is like four times more than I even imagined getting for the entire story. It seems like a lot for a Warcraft Story…hell maybe not, but I found it motivational nonetheless.

Anyways hopefully, the hype was worth it…because now shit is starting to get real. And damn it…I wrote another long chapter. I'm so bad about that.

So Tira was a fake all along? That little bitch! What will happen to Kanrethad now? Also, Illidan is back too. What kind of damage are he and Arthas going to wreak as an unstoppable tag team? How will Arthas punish Azachondrius for his fiendish action…what are the champions going to do? And what the hell does Elune want?! Stay tuned and you'll find out. As always, thanks for reading and I hoped you enjoyed it.