Warcraft III: Reincarnated

by torvxi

Just an amateur attempt to address Blizzard's appalling storytelling. Warcraft Three was a travesty and it is well past time someone called them out on their incompetence.

5. Ravages of the Plague

City of Dalaran, eastern shore of Lordamere Lake.

---

"De facto ruler of one of the most potent bastions of magic and knowledge left on this world, yet you are as blinded by hubris as any King or Queen!" Contempt was dripping from the voice of the hooded figure, and all but naked on what was visible of his face.

"How dare you! A ragged vagabond has the audacity to barge into my study without preamble, issue nonsensical demands and then speaks of hubris? Consider yourself fortunate that I did not set my guardians on you the moment you arrived!"

As theatrical as the intruder's feather-mantled cloak may be, it was shamed by the raiment of the owner of the building. Heavy, multilayered robes of royal purple embroidered with gold, culminating in a sweeping, almost spiked rear-headdress and cape of matching color. The absurd ensemble was completed by engraved, golden medallions in various locations and several slim, slate-colored runic tassels.

"Well, I suppose it says something that you are self assured enough to refrain from denying the undue and evidently undeserved influence you possess. Your 'guardians' would have proven woefully insufficient to deny my entry. But I bear you no hostility, I came in peace and will leave the same. I only hoped, in my apparent naïveté, that I might inform you of the doom all but on your doorstep; and petition - no, implore - you for aid in saving this world from shadow and flame." returned the first.

The second crossed his arms over his chest, exuding displeasure. "You should have practiced your begging before breaking an entry, then."

"Please, hear me. I am not your enemy, I wish to be an ally. I came out of desperation, to save you and your people. As many as can be saved. Surely our interests are aligned in this...?" the newcomer attempted.

"Perhaps, If you can be believed. Even if true, you nonetheless have the temerity to invade my home under the belief that your knowledge is superior to my own and that of the council in the defense of this city and beyond. Who do you think you are? I see little cause to entertain your proposal."

"You have unfettered access to the lore of your society, you must have heard of what I speak. You are fully aware of the existence of demons, why would an army of them be so difficult to imagine? The names Archimonde, Kil'jaeden and Sargeras? The scars that still remain ten thousand years after their first invasion?" pressed the visitor.

His opponent scoffed. "Parlor tricks by warlocks, seldom conjuring anything of notable scale and entirely vague, unsubstantiated historical references. You will need to offer far more for me to consider your demands in any meaningful capacity."

"And what of this plague that has spread throughout Lordaeron in a such a short span? Unprecedented in virulence and speed? Does it strike you as a natural phenomenon?" demanded the rogue.

"Investigation is underway. Even if it proves artificial, It hardly substantiates your other claims." stated the local.

The foreigner let out an audible exhale, struggling to restrain himself. He muttered something under his breath, the only words of which she could discern were orcs and 'more reasonable.' An odd thing to say. "Clearly you are committed to a course of self-deception, beyond all reason. Were it merely your own destruction that would ensue, I might call it 'good riddance.' I only regret the countless innocents you will drag into oblivion with you. Check your library, if you can rouse yourself from indolence and complacency. I have wasted enough time." He leveled a brief, surreptitious glance in her direction, seeming to meet her eyes. For some reason, she almost quailed under that stare.

Fuming, Antonidas, most influential archmage of the Dalaran city-state, pointed aggressively at the doorway. "'Leave in peace' or in pieces!" The sorcerer of some sort, as he must have been, gave a mocking bow. Remarkably, his form glowed green and shimmered into the shape of a large raven, which turned and flew from the room.

The Archmage gave an irritated growl, before regaining composure. "You can reveal yourself now, Jaina."

She was mildly frustrated at having apparently been detected both by her mentor and an entirely unknown mage, but readily complied, releasing her spell. "Master, I..." she began, before deciding to dispense with an entirely insincere apology. "I am sorry I was caught eavesdropping." From most mages, such a bold statement may well have been met with a stern, stinging rebuke at best. She was not ignorant of her status as a favored former-pupil, however, and thought that in a private setting candor may be preferable.

Antonidas froze for a moment, then broke into genuine laughter, at which she could not help a rueful grin. "Well, your inquisitive nature can always be relied upon, child. But be sure to temper it with an added dose of caution. And work on your invisibility."

Though a little crestfallen, Jaina would not dispute nor ignore the counsel of her onetime instructor. A leading archmage, no less. "Yes, Master." She hesitated, "I am... troubled by what he said."

Her elder dismissed this concern, punctuated with the wave of a hand. "As you observed, the fool is convinced that the world is about to end, and that only he is aware of the means by which it might be saved. The arrogance."

"As you say." Privately, Jaina was uncertain that the stranger had displayed the lesser self-awareness of the exchange. "I did not actually come here with the intention of espionage. I heard rumors of the plague spreading to the north and was concerned. Hearing that stranger mention it so ominously wasn't encouraging. Do you believe that the plague is indeed magical in nature?"

"Outlandish as many of the statements made by my unwelcome guest were, I do not entirely disagree with him on the nature of this apparent epidemic. It has proliferated too quickly, and even appears partially resistant to the light-given powers of priests and paladins." Memories of Arthas came unbidden to her at the mention of the latter, causing an involuntary wince. Fortunately, the archmage didn't appear to notice. He continued, "given what seems to be a strong possibility of sinister engineering, I intend to send an agent to unravel the matter. One of our finest."

Jaina tilted her head slightly, "really? Who might that be?"

"Yourself, as it were. Your timely arrival was fortuitous."

The younger mage blinked. "Master, I... appreciate the thought. But there are plenty of more experienced mages available, surely they would be better choices?"

Antonidas gave a rare smile. "While your humility does you credit, the council and I are confident of our decision. More than confident, in fact. Between the two of us, I suspect It would be difficult to find any more capable."

She lowered her gaze, cheeks red. "I don't know if I deserve that praise. But I will do what I can, and hope to prove that your faith was not misplaced."

"I have no doubt, Jaina. We are not certain what you will find, but questions must be answered. 'Use extreme caution' cannot be overstated, though I know you are fully aware of this."

"Where am I to begin?"

"Strahnbrad. We have learned that Highlord Uther has just pacified the orcs threatening the area, and it is a reasonable place to start your investigation. I have sent messages ahead, and they will be prepared to receive and aid an emissary of the Kirin Tor." replied Antonidas.

Jaina nodded. "When do I leave?"

"Tomorrow morning. Come, some final arrangements remain."

---

Near Strahnbrad, three days following the defeat of the orcs.

"Prince Arthas, we've been waiting here for hours. Are we certain this mage is coming?"

"I'm sure they will arrive soon." In truth he did not disagree with the man at all, his own patience had been wearing thin. He stood with Marwyn and a company of soldiers some miles to the south of Strahnbrad, near an intersection of the King's Road and another thoroughfare.

When Uther had asked him travel to this crossroad to await and escort an apparent Kirin Tor representative, he had thought little of it. He was still flush from his victory and it didn't seem a particularly unreasonable request. Whatever the cause, the arrival window Uther had given had been exceeded. Admittedly, Uther had never attempted to portray himself as at all infallible; he suspected the wizard was more to blame for the waste of his time.

"Prince Arthas!" His eyes, which had drifted northward, whipped around again at Marwyn's voice and followed his finger. There! A rider approached swiftly from the south, too distant to identify. Certain it was the truant spell-caster, he addressed his troops, "mount up, men." All those unmounted retrieved their designated steeds, picketed nearby.

Arthas remained on the small hill overlooking the crossed roads, intending to wait for the newcomer to arrive. That thought was summarily dashed by alarm and surprise as, bizarrely, what could only have been ogres emerged from the trees immediately before the rider. The monsters that he had never seen before, larger than any human or orc and wielding monstrous clubs, made a beeline for their prey-to-be, bellowing primitively all the while.

The Prince shook himself, spurring his mount with hammer raised, "charge!" Arthas had heard that some of the otherwise simple creatures were modest magic users, generally the absurd two-headed variety. Thankfully, these two each only inflicted one repulsive head on the world and surely would have used any powers rather than glorified sticks.

The mage had immediately reined their horse in as the ogres closed. Doubtless they could have outrun the assailants, now he had no hope of reaching them in time! Arthas ground his teeth in frustration. How would he explain this to Uther and the Kirin Tor?

But it became readily apparent that he had underestimated his would-be charge. As the laughing brutes closed and began to swing, there was a small flare of blue-violet light and both sorcerer and horse vanished: instantly reappearing in a matching effect well out of reach while the ogres collided and tumbled to the ground.

The horse was understandably disturbed by these events, but that did not prevent its rider from channeling another spell. The single hand he saw waved glowed purple, and emitted an intertwining-stream of prismatic, coruscating projectiles. This rapid onslaught impacted the nearest ogre before it had even regained its feet. The thing managed little more than a single, agonized howl as it was pummeled, perforated and sent back to the ground a glowing, partially shredded heap. Arthas could not fully prevent his mouth from parting at the sight.

At this, the panicked steed could take no more and reared with a plaintive whinny, tossing its rider who hit the ground hard. Arthas was dismayed as the sorcerer floundered for a moment, but buoyed when they shakily regained their feet and summoned the large staff they had dropped back into hand. The remaining ogre, to its credit, had attempted to charge its adversary in this brief window. Unfortunately, the attempt was for naught.

The unknown mage pointed their suddenly luminous weapon at the monster, unleashing what looked to be a narrow cone of intense, frigid wind. The brute roared in pain as every part of its body touched glowed pale blue and near-instantly froze. In mere moments it was fully immobile, and the mage gave it no opportunity to struggle. A free hand sheathed in an orange-aura was thrust forward, launching an iconic fireball. The ogre all but simultaneously combusted and shattered.

To say that Arthas was impressed at the display would be an understatement. There may have even been some jealously, as well. Close now, he was able to take a proper look at his apparent ally. From behind, he could see little more than a hooded and partially-parted cloak of royal purple with some white pattern and a golden trim. The staff they bore was taller then they were: ornate with a long, white grip, a slightly flared golden base and a four-pronged setting at the top. Almost an oversized candelabra, were it not for the large crystal suspended between the claw-like arms.

"Well done, mage..." Arthas began, only to trail off as they spun around at the sound of his voice. He blinked for a moment, then his face broke out into a smile. Any impatience he may have harbored towards the formerly unknown sorcerer melted as rapidly as the scattered shards of ogre nearby. "Hello, Jaina."

"Arthas,"she nodded, looking surprised and uncomfortable. He could understand the former, of course. But the latter? Why? He looked her over. She wore a rear skirt and shoes matching the color of the cloak, along with white breeches and corset that pleasingly displayed both midriff and cleavage. The outfit was completed with kneepads and epaulets of some ivory metal. Everything was hemmed, trimmed or chased with gold. Not the most resilient regalia, but he had no doubt that her clothing carried protective enchantments or something of that ilk. She looked even more beautiful than when he had last seen her.

Arthas was confused and disappointed by her less than exuberant greeting, but it failed to fully dampen his pleasure at her unlooked for arrival. "Gentlemen, meet Lady Jaina Proudmoore, member of the Kirin Tor and one of the most talented sorceresses in the land." He paused, and his men gave such bows as one could from horseback. "Looks like you haven't lost your touch. It's good to see you again, Jaina."

Said sorceress had reddened quite a bit at his words and the reaction of the soldiers. "You too, Arthas," she spoke quietly.

"I see you still have a habit of running a little late." Arthas gave a winning smile, hoping to further break the ice. He thought he was partially successful, earning a light, if nervous laugh.

He opened his mouth to say more, but was unwittingly interrupted from behind by Marwyn. "Your Highness, my Lady. Apologies, but we are overdue. If we do not return shortly, Uther may begin sending out search parties."

The Prince was somewhat chagrined, but could not dispute the logic of the statement. "Yes. Well, I suppose we should get underway."

---

Jaina was uncertain how to feel about her current escort. She had been unaware that any ogres were still present in the region, but it was difficult for them to take most by surprise and she had defeated worse. It was his appearance that had caught her flatfooted. Of all those she could have encountered at the beginning of this investigation, it had to be Arthas. Still, she would endeavor to be cordial.

"How have you been, Jaina?" A harmless beginning, she supposed.

"Well enough. Busy." Admittedly, that may have come out more brusque than intended.

If Arthas noticed, he gave no sign. "That makes two of us. So, what have you been up to?"

Not entirely unreasonable, even if it felt a bit probing given the level of awkwardness Jaina was experiencing. It seemed as if she was the only one feeling such. "Magical research and development, both at Dalaran and in the field. Some tracking of mystical anomalies and/or rogue magic-users. I assist in instructing younger students at times."

His eyes widened slightly, and he took a moment in answering. "This isn't your first assignment, then."

"No, far from it." Clearly it was his, but she would not press that.

He broke eye-contact, releasing a frustrated exhale that was likely louder than realized, if he was aware of it at all. Arthas had never been particularly adept at concealing his emotions, a quality Jaina had once found endearing. Something about it had changed, though. The next question he asked was unlikely to improve his disposition, "when did you complete your training?"

She kept her affectation casual, "almost two years past."

"Two years..." he quietly echoed. Now Arthas seemed more sulky than angered. She supposed that was preferable.

Trying to lighten the mood, Jaina offered a small, but genuine smile. "I heard about your own initiation. Congratulations."

Unfortunately this did not have the intended effect. His return expression came off more as a grimace, "thank you." Arthas then tried to affect an air of nonchalance, and failed. "I had hoped you might attend."

Jaina liked to think that she was a fairly levelheaded individual. Now that was being tested. The nerve! "I had my own duties, Arthas." This was entirely true, if somewhat misleading. She had no significant tasks at the time, and likely could have managed the trip without too much trouble. Arthas did not need to know this, however. Once, she would have ensured her presence without hesitation. She was a different person now. After how things had ended between them - how he had ended them - she saw little reason to make any such efforts at this time.

Evidently, this was not quite the answer Arthas had expected or hoped for. If several blinks along with a slightly hurt and befuddled expression were any indication. He opened his mouth to say something, then closed it again. "I...understand." Hopefully he would not push that matter further at this time. Fortunately, Arthas seemed willing to let it rest. "So, what interest do the Kirin Tor have in Strahnbrad?"

"Little in Strahnbrad itself, to my knowledge." Jaina replied.

"Unsurprising. Why are you here, then?" he asked next.

The mage didn't intend to share that just yet. "A matter that requires some small delicacy. You may find out soon enough." Clearly Arthas was not pleased at this, but relented with a sigh. She attempted to shift the subject, "I did not know you would be here. How long have you been in Strahnbrad?."

"You didn't know... How much have you heard about what happened here?" This was almost a demand.

She subconsciously pulled away a little. "Not much. I was only told that Highlord Uther had defeated the orcs in the area." Jaina spoke cautiously.

His eyes flashed. "Uther didn't defeat the orcs, I did!" Arthas snarled, very loudly.

Jaina was taken aback by the sudden and vehement volume, instinctively yanking the reins to a near stop in shock. The soldiers close behind mirrored this, but said nothing, perhaps too surprised or even intimidated to speak. She was neither. "Then save your anger for those who spread that information, I don't deserve it!" She would have profusely enjoyed punctuating her words with a - harmless - demonstration of her powers, but had more discipline than that.

Now Arthas was speechless and seemingly chastened, to her slight satisfaction. "Jaina, I-"

"I can find my own way." They were very close now in any case. Without waiting for a response, she spurred her horse and left them behind, resisting any backwards glance.

"Lady Proudmoore..." Marwyn called.

"Let her go." She heard Arthas say, before leaving earshot. For a fleeting moment, Jaina almost wished he hadn't.

---

Jaina reached the town only minutes later. A horn announced her arrival as she entered sight of the walls. It was immediately apparent that Strahnbrad had indeed experienced a recent battle. The gatehouse was intact, albeit coated in soot, while the gate itself was gone. Clearly destroyed, or at least enough so that any remnants had to be removed, pending a replacement.

After a short exchange with the guards, she was waved through a no doubt hastily-erected palisade into the battered plaza beyond. It was a bustle of activity, with both townsfolk and military working to repair damage and shore-up defenses. A soldier came to take the reins of her horse as she dismounted, giving the mount a friendly pat before turning to meet the approaching paladin.

"Lady Proudmoore, welcome to Strahnbrad." The general gave a short, respectful bow. Jaina had always preferred to be addressed by her calling, rather than royal status. Regardless, Uther was a revered master of his own path, along with a war hero to the Alliance. It was only natural to accord the same respect and bow in turn.

"Thank you, Highlord Uther." She had met Uther only a few times previously, but that was more than enough to draw positive inferences. Even discounting the reputation that preceded him. There was a time when a testimony from Arthas might have been enough to prompt some slight bias from her in a given direction. Fortunately, Jaina had learned much since those days.

The smile on Uther's face faded as he heard the gate close and looked past her to see no other arrivals. "Where is Arthas?"

"Close behind. He should arrive any minute." Jaina tried to keep her tone neutral. Uther did not appear to notice, busily glaring in the likely direction of his absent pupil.

"He let you ride alone?" Obviously this was more statement than question, having an edge to it. This put her in yet another uncomfortable position. She had no desire to cause needless difficulty for Arthas, but found the prospect of lying for him even more distasteful.

"Arthas heard some upsetting news and was frustrated. There was very little distance remaining and I chose to arrive ahead." Jaina thought that was as kind a response as she could likely provide at this time.

Unfortunately - but hardly unreasonably - Uther was not mollified and his eyes narrowed. "Whatever you argued about would otherwise be none of my business and I would have little desire to know. Regrettably, the outcome is now my concern and I have no choice. You are not under my command, but Arthas is and disregarded his orders. So tell me, which of you was responsible? Understand that I am obligated to chastise him regardless of your answer.

Jaina looked away. "He was. But he would have been unable to prevent my leaving, in any case."

Uther's mouth pressed into a thin line. "That is irrelevant. He and I will have words." The senior paladin sighed, gesturing to indicate a large building nearby. "Wait in the inn, if you would. We will be there shortly."

She nodded and walked past him, unable to help some feelings of guilt.

---

A few minutes later, Jaina sat alone at a corner table in the bustling, moderately sized common room. She had drawn stares and silence upon entry, doubtless because her staff and clothing all but screamed mage. Before long, most eyes lost interest, though she received glances here and there. A server had cautiously approached, almost seeming relieved when she declined making an order. As much as she would have enjoyed a meal and ale, she was here on business, would not be staying and had no wish to tax resources more than they likely already were.

She heard a door opening, and all activity ceased once more as Uther stepped inside, Arthas on his heels. Most with beverages raised vessels, with respectful statements of "Highlord" or "your highness." Uther gave a gracious inclination of his head, then headed in her direction. Arthas had been looking rather sullen, but perked up slightly at the praise. He had to scan the room for a moment before alighting upon her, then followed Uther without meeting her eyes.

The contrast between the two had immediately asserted itself. The face of Arthas had aged in the years since they parted ways, but he was otherwise unchanged. Reasonable height and musculature, which was nothing to be ashamed of. Uther, on the other hand, was tall and broad enough to make a respectable orc. She was far from a combat expert in any regard, but it seemed to her that despite being more than twice the age of Arthas and wearing armor that likely weighed at least as much, Uther managed to move with grace and poise rather than what almost seemed visible brashness in his student.

"Mage Proudmoore," Uther greeted respectfully once more. Arthas only gave a short nod, eying her with what could almost approach an inscrutable expression, were he capable of such. Despite herself, a part of Jaina acknowledged how handsome he still was, and she felt her cheeks begin to flush. No. After their separation and how he had lashed out at her earlier, she had little reason or desire to view Arthas in any such context.

He pulled out a chair, but Jaina preempted by taking her feet. She surveyed the room, affirming that they still commanded considerable attention. "I would prefer greater confidence," she quietly began.

Uther had clearly anticipated this, motioning for them to follow. He led them up the rear stairs opposite the entrance. There appeared to be no one on the upper floor and he opted for what was clearly a dining room, intended to offer greater privacy to interested patrons. After the door had been closed he claimed a seat facing it nearby. "To what do we owe the pleasure of the Kirin Tor?"

"And on such short notice, no less." Arthas grumbled. Uther gave him an unamused look, but allowed this.

Jaina took a moment to formulate her thoughts, ultimately failing to produce a better alternative to bluntness. "The plague."

Arthas sucked in a breath, while slight-bemusement vacated the face of Uther. The master paladin glanced at each of them in turn, "I have been hunting orcs in the field for some time. Deeply troubling rumors managed to reach me regardless, though I am likely less well informed than either of you."

She opened her mouth to continue, only to be overridden by Arthas, to her irritation. "Before I left the capital, I visited Brill after learning of a sickness there. What I found... I have never encountered anything like it." Unsurprising, considering how little you have encountered. He paused, almost for effect, then proceeded. "We have all seen illness and it fit the general descriptions of plague from my studies. There was something more, though. I could see and sense some foul magic surrounding them. It vanished when I brought the light to bear, healing the victims."

"You risked exposure to an unknown and hostile form of magic? That was reckless!" She tried not to allow the degree of concern she evidently still felt for him to express itself. Apparently Jaina was more successful than she had anticipated, with him at least.

The face of Arthas hardened. "It is my duty to protect to protect my people! I did what had to be done." he indignantly responded.

Jaina prepared to retort, only for Uther to interject. "While Jaina is not entirely mistaken, I commend your bravery and nobility, Prince Arthas."

Said paladin had frowned upon the beginning of his superior's statement, but blinked and his expression shifted to smug pride after Uther finished. "Thank you, Highlord."

She glowered at both in turn, but decided there was little purpose in continuing that line of dialogue. Jaina instead took up the initial thread once more, "This plague appears to have proliferated more rapidly than any in recorded history. Every effect amplified to a similar, unprecedented degree. For this reason, my brethren suspect an artificial-origin. Your recent experience only seems to further confirm this, Arthas."

The two men nodded, gravely. "And how do the Kirin Tor intend to address this crisis?" prompted Uther.

"The council petitioned King Terenas to institute a regional quarantine, whilst allowing their assistance. He refused."

The older stroked his beard, "that is a drastic measure."

Arthas was clearly conflicted. He met her eyes, "what do you believe, Jaina?"

She sighed. "I like it little more than either of you do, but I agree with my superiors. They would not have sent me if that wasn't the case. Such an act - undesirable as it may be - might still contain this epidemic. Thus far, only Lordaeron has been affected. That will almost assuredly change, likely sooner rather than later. Every neighboring state will seal their borders before that happens, forcibly isolating this kingdom. Stunting all in and out-going land, sea and even air travel. Such a scenario would be severely destructive."

"Undoubtedly. Why are you here, then?" Uther posed.

"I have been tasked with investigating the plague. Origins, how it might be combated if possible and so forth. Finding the answers we all need, in essence. Evidence that might sway both Lordaeron and other nations." Jaina raised a hand, which immediately began glowing both blue and violet. A sealed roll of parchment materialized from the nether. Both of them seemed impressed, particularly Arthas. Perhaps a display he had never witnessed. "A writ from the council of six, formally seeking aid from both Lordaeron and the church of light." She offered the paper to Uther, who broke the seal and read.

"A military escort..." the general mused. "Easy enough to provide." His brow rose, "and led by myself, if possible."

"What? Why is an escort necessary for such an investigation?" Arthas seemed perplexed, but there was something more to it.

Jaina was surprised he was unable to deduce the answer. "This plague was engineered by someone, or something. The development of such a new and dangerous magic would presumably require significant understanding of the arcane arts. It also seems unlikely that a lone culprit could distribute such vile magic so widely and simultaneously as appears to have been done. My assignment is reconnaissance foremost, but the trail may be perilous. In some ways I would prefer to make the journey alone, but I recognize the value of assistance. Should I happen to encounter the root of this corruption, formidable allies could prove useful."

He gave a slow nod. "And why the Highlord?" Arthas attempted to ask casually.

Ah, there it is. He remained as incapable of deception as ever. There was a time she would have attributed such to guileless honesty. Now, Jaina was beginning to wonder if it had in fact been merely a fundamental lack of ability to successfully deceive. Arthas resented the fact that Uther was approached for such an important task, rather than himself. The reasoning should have been readily apparent to anyone, yet it seemed he needed a dose of reality.

"Why would the council not ask for Uther, 'the Lightbringer?' He is a war hero, ranking military officer and one of the most accomplished paladins alive." Jaina attempted to convey genuine surprise at the question. Evidently this was a success, because his face flushed and hardened, supplemented by eyes twitching. Perhaps this subterfuge was unworthy of her, but Arthas more than deserved the humiliation after his earlier outburst.

Uther likely noticed his former pupil's reaction, but if so elected to let it pass. "You are too kind, lady Jaina. But the Kirin Tor place me in a difficult position. I was ordered by King Terenas to pacify the renegade orcs in the region."

The sorceress glanced at Arthas, then back to his superior. "I was told that they were recently vanquished."

"Indeed, thanks in part to Prince Arthas. There may still be stragglers at large, however. While I doubt there are enough to muster another force, we have yet to finish sweeping the area. Unfortunately, my orders must stand."

"Surely there are others that may hold command in your absence...?"

Uther shook his head. "There are, but not until my task is complete or I receive leave to join you."

"How long is that likely to take?" Jaina could not help feeling some exasperation.

"Several days to finish combing the area, and we have no gryphons to send to the capital and receive revised orders at this time. The first will likely take too long for your purpose. If it is any consolation, I would likely be ordered to take my battalion northward while leaving a strengthened garrison behind in any case. In absence of any updated instructions, I will begin the march in that direction. We will not travel as fast as yourself, but if fortune favors us we may find ourselves not far behind."

"Nonetheless too far to provide assistance if necessary." stated the mage.

Uther gave a genuinely apologetic expression. "I am sorry Jaina, but it cannot be helped. For the moment, a well furnished company will have to suffice."

"I understand." she spoke glumly. Uther could well have proven an invaluable ally in her task.

By now Arthas had recovered enough of his pride to participate in the dialogue once more. "Couldn't you just teleport to the capital and back with any information we need, rendering this dialogue moot?"

"No." she spoke firmly. "Teleportation requires extensive precision at the best of time, including but not limited to personal familiarity with the target location. Why do you think cities contain designated, warded hubs for this purpose? A bungled teleport incurs a significant risk to any mage, but a flawed portal can near-obliterate everything within a given radius, commensurate to the scale of the attempt. I lack the awareness of that destination to guarantee safety both to myself and others. I would be willing to risk the first if desperation demands, not the latter.

"I doubt that I would succeed in the trip there regardless, let alone the considerably more complex and dangerous return. Even returning to Dalaran in the hopes of recruiting another suitable mage to make that trip would negate my own journey here, and my assignment cannot wait." Truth be told, she should have visited the capital of Lordaeron to attune herself. Had considered it, in fact, but she could not bring herself to risk running into him. A foolish mistake.

Though he clearly disliked being corrected, Arthas had little choice but to accept her words, giving a small nod. Unsurprisingly, Uther seemed fully aware of the arcane principals she had referenced. "You will have the best I can spare. That may well prove sufficient. We are uncertain what you may find, after all."

Jaina was not assuaged, but had little choice. She tried not to let the disappointment show. "I hope you are right. And I am grateful for your assistance, Highlord."

"It is the least I could do." he smiled, with sympathy.

Uther opened his mouth to say more, but Arthas interjected. "If I may?" When the former motioned for him to continue, the younger man proceeded. "Send me in your stead."

Her eyes widened. What? No, no!

Both seemed oblivious to her reaction, Uther giving his former student an measuring stare. "And why should I do so?" There was no hostility in his voice, merely a commander inviting a subordinate to make his case. Jaina would have been impressed, were she not attempting to suppress outward signs of the internal panic she was feeling.

"Your duty binds you here, but mine was only to report to yourself - you are free to deploy me." For once, Arthas seemed to bury the malcontent he clearly felt, pressing on. "There are no other light-users present to provide Jaina their aid in her quest. Not only do I fulfill that criteria, I have personally seen the effects of this plague. I hope that my support could prove invaluable and am sure that together we will succeed. Above all, it is clear that this crisis represents a grave threat and as Prince, I should be on the front lines defending my kingdom." Your kingdom, is it? "Hopefully, I have proven worthy of this task."

"Hmm," Uther leaned back slightly. "You make some well-reasoned points, Arthas. Jaina, what say you?" Clearly he was leaning in favor.

"I..." She swallowed, taking in the expectant eyes and smile of her onetime partner. Her first impulse was an emphatic refusal. She had set out on this assignment with the hopes of recruiting Uther himself. Or failing that some other veteran paladin, rather than a newly minted one. But she would - quite literally - opt for any other graduate of that order, rather than Arthas.

While she would have been surprised had any possible encounter between them not been stilted, this extent had caught her unawares. They had been in company little more than an hour and already Jaina was being forced to reevaluate the person she had thought he was, applying this in context to their previous interactions. Essentially, she felt extremely uncomfortable around Arthas at this time, a sentiment he clearly did not share and was entirely ignorant of. However, she seemed to have little choice. Her task could not wait, and so she regretfully, cautiously responded, "alright."

Uther frowned at her reaction, but nodded regardless. "Very well. Arthas, Falric and Marwyn will join you, as you likely expect, along with what soldiers and supplies are applicable. Now come along, you two. We must prepare."

---

Within an hour, all was in readiness. Jaina was impressed, despite her discomfort. A long column of soldiers on light-horse. Arthas waited at the fore with his righthand men directly behind.

As she moved to her own mount, Uther beckoned, leading her aside. "I know that you were caught off-guard with this development, and can hardly be blamed for that. I regret that I cannot be of greater service at this time, but I do feel that this approach may be the best that can be taken at this junction. I have no comment on your shared history, merely the hope that you can do your duty and work together." She nodded, attempting to convey a certainty that she didn't possess. Evidently he accepted this at face value, "good. Then there is little cause to delay."

Moments later, she and her horse were positioned to the left of Arthas. "So, where did the Kirin Tor intend to send you?" he asked.

"If the council had a definitive location, it would have descended in force. It appears likely that the plague originated somewhere to the north of us. There is little we can do but begin working our way in that direction upon the King's road." Arthas gave a frustrated sigh. "I don't disagree, but we have little choice," Jaina added. Come to think of it, this was the first time today she did agree with him.

Uther walked forward to see them off. "Safe travels. You are the best that Lordaeron and Dalaran have to offer, I have full confidence in every one of you." The troops cheered and Jaina gave what bow she could from the saddle, touched. Arthas straightened as much as possible, deigning to give an imperious nod. The veteran paladin signaled the gate, his gaze sweeping each of them as they past. "May the light be with you," he called.

A resounding "light be with you!" echoed, which Jaina quietly murmured. She couldn't say that she subscribed overmuch to the prevailing spirituality of the continent - admittedly not an uncommon perspective in arcane practitioners - but many she valued did. They passed through the gate, and in what felt like only moments, Strahnbrad was no longer visible.

---

They traveled northward without incident for the remainder of the day, making what seemed to be reasonable progress. Cheer was high amongst the company, with much talk of recent victories. All had been informed as to the nature of the mission, though from their interactions, Jaina feared the implications thereof had yet to fully register.

She rode beside Arthas for the duration and came to regret it, though saw no easy way to extricate herself. Their dialogue might be perceived to be amicable enough to most others; though if such was the case, they would be unaware of what Jaina had to endure to make it so. Arthas occasionally inquired as to her own doings over the past three years, but far the bulk of his time was spend detailing his life, experiences and perceived accomplishments. Lavish attention was devoted to his recent "victory over the orcs," which only heightened her unease.

Jaina would hardly claim to be a tactician herself, but while she could believe that Arthas may have played a notable role in the battle, he was clearly glossing over the actions of so many involved. She doubted he was aware of this in the slightest. Other than the lack of due-credit, Arthas clearly did regret the lives lost. While this would have reassured her, it was also apparent that he ultimately had reconciled these losses, undesirable though they may be, as acceptable in the pursuit of victory.

Admittedly she may be judging him too harshly in this regard. While she remained intent on pursuing her calling as a mage, Jaina was also of comparable social-status to Arthas as Kul Tiran royalty and aware that hard decisions were inevitable as a ruler. He was devoted to his people, at least. In a different vein, the level of vitriol he directed at the orcs was surprisingly hard to hear. It was clear that his recent antagonists were a grave threat that had to be eliminated, she did not disagree on that count. However, they were sentient beings and so perhaps not deserving of appellations such as "mindless beasts."

At nightfall, they found a fairly secure location to make camp. The company was well provisioned, as promised, while also large enough that watch shifts would be a negligible issue. Jaina insisted that she be entered into the rotation, but ended up off-duty this first evening regardless. There were several female soldiers present and she set herself up alongside them for the night. Arthas gave her a wistful look or two when he thought she was unaware, though fortunately he appeared to know better than to press her.

The journey resumed early the next morning, maintaining the manner of the previous day without incident for several more. Jaina had not taken this road before, yet others had, confirming that they were rapidly approaching more heavily civilized areas. Progress was stunted on what had appeared to be an otherwise unremarkable morning, however. They encountered the remains of what once had clearly been a large, sturdy bridge spanning a fast-flowing river. Arthas indulged in several epithets, before turning in his saddle to address his soldiers. "Where is the nearest crossing?"

"I cannot say, your Highness." Falric then pointed at an offshoot road heading northeast, "as I recall, there is a settlement nearby. Perhaps they can point us in the right direction."

"Very well." Arthas turned his mount, leading them onwards.

Only minutes into this new direction, smoke became visible - presumably from the village or town. Arthas took a moment to notice it, reflexively reining in his horse. He then immediately spurred into a gallop.

"Prince Arthas!" Falric shouted futilely from his position beside Jaina. "Damn it, not again," he swore under his breath, perhaps thinking no one could hear. She frowned at this, but followed in pursuit.

They were hard-pressed to maintain a steady distance behind Arthas. Still, all heard the sounds of battle soon enough. The village came into sight shortly after, protected by a palisade with an open gate, numerous smoke trails now visible. Arthas did not slow, charging through the gate with maul raised. Jaina and the others entered close on his heels, just as the two-handed hammer descended on the back of a lightly armored man trading blows with a guard. The bandit - if that was an accurate descriptor - managed a plaintive scream as he crumpled to the ground.

Several buildings were indeed on fire, while a pitched battle was fought between guards and a sizable number of apparent brigands that had seemingly forced the opposite gate. Combatants on both sides were briefly startled by their arrival. It looked as if the aggressors may have been gaining the upper- hand, but even they must surely recognize the impossibility of victory with such sudden and heavy enemy reinforcements. Perhaps she could ensure an immediate retreat.

As her other companions rushed towards the enemy, Jaina tapped her power and raised a free hand, which instantly began emitting a swirling aura of glowing, blue motes of magic. Frigid to any other, while harmless to herself. With a flick of her wrist, a large, precise and freezing ray of light-blue energy streamed from her hand to the largest fire, quenching it instantly. Ice had always been her favorite manifestation of magic, and it had precisely the harmless yet morale decimating effect she had desired.

With various permutations of "mage!" screamed out in terror, the invaders abandoned that moniker and fled for their lives, while the guards cheered. She allowed herself some small satisfaction. Hopefully any that managed to escape might reconsider this life they led, whatever the reason.

A number of the hostile force were killed as they raced towards the gate they had taken. Unfortunate, but inevitable and Jaina understood the necessity. What happened next firmly dashed that hope she had harbored, leaving her stunned besides. Some of the ruffians did indeed pass through the gate. Arthas followed to that entrance, turning in the saddle to address them. "With me, soldiers of Lordaeron! Those treasonous scum cannot be allowed to escape!" He raised his warhammer and set off in pursuit, followed by all save her.

Arthas was not gone long. In that time, Jaina attempted to conceal how shaken she was whilst avoiding response to the gratitude and questions of the locals where possible. She busied herself with icing the various fires, winning more hollow praise. When he returned, she would not meet the instant eye-contact sought. Fortunately a guard, perhaps a local captain, approached and gave a respectful bow, drawing attention. "Thank the Light you arrived when you did, the village might have been lost without you and yours, sir...?"

The smile that had begun to form on the face of her onetime beloved faded, "sir?"

The man blinked, confused. "Lord?"

"I am Arthas, Prince of Lordaeron!"

Now the eyes of the innocent guard widened and he bowed deeply, as did his brethren. "My apologies, Prince Arthas. I don't know if any here have ever met or even seen you before."

Arthas deigned to give what Jaina was sure he thought to be a magnanimous nod. "Understandable, I suppose." He passed his reins to Falric and dismounted. "I require information, but I will tend to your wounded first."

Well, take what one can get, I suppose.

For several minutes, Arthas moved among the locals, hands and bodies glowing the gold of the light. He was met with universal enthusiasm for his efforts, visibly pleasing him, though it was clear to Jaina just how much the efforts began to tax, which he tried and failed to hide. She still harbored some faint hope that the thought of Arthas prizing acclaim over genuine selflessness was pessimism.

Efforts concluded, Arthas approached the guard once more. "Why did the bandits attack you in broad daylight?"

"I cannot say, your highness. But there has been little military activity in the region for some time. Or travelers at all, for that matter. Our foes have seemed bolder lately, and we are a less formidable village than some."

"So the area has been allowed to descend into lawlessness?" The tone and face of Arthas were harsh. More than was called for.

The guard shifted uncomfortably, "I wouldn't know, Prince Arthas. We protect our people as well as we can."

The Prince's demeanor softened slightly at that. "I commend you for your service, soldier. I suspect the fault is not yours. In any case, we came searching for information. The nearby bridge was destroyed somehow, and we must find another means to cross and continue along the King's road. Is there any such route?"

Every local looked visibly dejected at the news. "That must have happened very recently. And we were already struggling..." The spokesman looked down for a moment. "The river passes through a marsh a short distance to the northeast. It may be slow for your horses, but should be passable. Be careful though, murlocs have been sighted there." The guard, his fellows, and even some of their own company shuddered at that news.

Arthas laughed, however, giving a confident smile. "I think we can handle those ankle biters." He then clapped the guard on the shoulder, "some of the army will be traveling up the road soon. They should be able to restore the bridge."

Spirits were restored somewhat at that news. "Thank you, highness. Do you need provisions for your journey?"

"We have our own supplies. Keep yours, they will do more good in your hands. Now, we must be on our way. Light be with you all." Jaina was encouraged by that gesture, marginally.

---

There were indeed murlocs, but too few to pose a threat to their party. Those that did attack were readily disposed of, with no losses taken. Though it took longer than any wished, they left the mire behind and returned to welcome, stable ground. While there was no road, the terrain consisted primarily of easily traversable fields interspersed with light forest. They set off in the general direction of the now accessible route north. Jaina made certain to keep the unwitting Falric and Marwyn between Arthas and herself. She was not yet prepared to interact with him after the earlier display of ruthlessness.

Soon, they reached what was formerly the far side of the bridge. There was no more indication of how it had been destroyed, which troubled her, but hardly a reason to delay progress as the journey proceeded. Arthas frequently attempted to snatch glances at her, something that she might once have bashfully appreciated. Now, it only made her feel yet more uncomfortable. Things continued in this fashion for two further hours. For most of that span, there were few signs of habitation. Eventually they passed several oddly deserted farms, shortly before a town at the side of the road.

This municipality was larger than the first and protected with stone and mortar fortifications. There was no indication of violence here, but something perhaps even more unnerving. Silence. None of the sounds one would associate with an inhabited area were present, only the unnatural absence of noise pervaded. Jaina saw similar unease written on the faces of more than one of the others and diverted her horse away from the column, stopping in the middle of the road.

Arthas took note and held up a hand for a halt, although the momentum had already tapered off on her move, resting on the oddly disturbed, but otherwise unremarkable roadside. He nosed his horse alongside hers, "what is it, Jaina?"

"Listen."

He frowned. "For what?"

She turned in her saddle, "tell me, what do you hear?"

"I hear only us, our company." Arthas was confused.

"Precisely."

Marwyn and Falric came up on their commander's other side. The former opened, "Prince Arthas, we have seen a number of recently abandoned farms. Now we stand before a town in which no sounds of life are present. Lady Proudmoore is right, something is wrong."

Arthas was clearly frustrated at having missed that observation. "What do you propose we do?"

"A gate will generally not be closed during daylight hours unless strictly necessary," Falric mused. "No signs of combat. No sentries upon the wall, and while that could possibly be attributed to inexcusable incompetence, it does not account for the complete lack of noise. This should be investigated, carefully."

"Very well, the four of us." They dismounted and walked towards the gate, others taking their reins.

Arthas led the way, and had begun to reach for the gate when Jaina sensed it. "Stop!"

The two veterans merely halted and looked askance. The less-experienced paladin was taken by surprise and whirled, "what is it?"

Rather than answer, she waved a hand and revealed to them what was plainly visible to her spell-sight. Now, even the veterans' brows lifted as several green-glowing runes appeared symmetrically on the gate.

"What is that?" asked Arthas.

"A glyph."

"Remind us, mage Proudmoore. What is a 'glyph'?" Falric queried.

"A spell form. The precise inscription of information via assorted arcane runes. A sorcerer infuses the runes with power, then channels a spell. They then bind that spell to the runes, the summoned energies locked according to that specific set of empowered instructions. This can be used to sustain some spells without constantly sapping the reserves of the mage, for a time."

"'How long?" Arthas asked, actually seeming curious, for a change.

"That can vary considerably, depending on a number of factors." she replied.

"And what might those be?" Marwyn prompted.

"The basic principles would be the power and skill of the caster, along with the inherent properties of the magic used. Volatility, for instance." Jaina bent her will upon the runic pattern, gently probing at the ominous seal, waving a now faintly blue and violet hand. She frowned.

"What can you tell us about this glyph?" Arthas pressed, impatient.

"This was no ordinary mage."

Falric frowned, "how so?"

"I have never encountered these runes before, and the work is both powerful and complex. It was also placed recently." the mage explained, uneasy.

"Surely this sorcerer is not your equal?" Arthas asked, seeming to be genuine.

Jaina blushed, despite herself. "Less powerful, perhaps. More experienced though, I fear."

"Can you dispel it?"

"I think so." The blue-violet glow intensified as she carefully overpowered and dismantled the target, simultaneously placing protective wards of her own around it. It took only moments, but she was troubled by what she detected. "The function of this glyph was only to seal the gates."

"And that is a problem?" Arthas was clearly confused, while his seniors were content to wait for her clarification.

"In and of itself, no. But whomever created this appears to have had both nefarious intent and the ability to leave a trap that could well prove deadly to many that triggered it. Instead, they merely ensured that likely none save themselves could enter or leave."

"What do you think this means, mage Proudmoore?" The voice of Falric was calm, though unsurprisingly wary.

"I am not certain." Jaina gestured again, and the runes flared once before fading. She dismissed her own magic, "the gate should open now, but I fear what we may find."

"Nothing to be done about that." Arthas beckoned the other two and they began to push.

"Are you sure the soldiers shouldn't join us?"

Arthas answered between grunts, "they will be right outside, we will be fine."

"If you say so." Jaina could have effortlessly forced the gate with magic, but felt it might be kinder to allow them some participation. In any case, it took little time for them to succeed. The way clear, they entered and found... nothing. A common open area leading to three streets, all disturbingly deserted. No sign or sound of life, not even birds. "Something is very wrong," she spoke quietly.

Her companions nodded. Arthas hefted his hammer, "nothing for it, we have to find out what happened to the citizens." He started up the closest street, to the left of the central avenue. They followed close behind.

Several blocks later, her trepidation had only heightened. Not enough to weaken her resolve, Jaina had seen combat and danger. Doubtless considerably less than the experienced warriors flanking her, save for magical matters, of course. Appropriately, they were every bit as wary as her. Arthas was the least bothered, clearly due to the arrogant, brazen overconfidence bordering recklessness that had taken hold since they went their separate ways. If it was not present long before, as she now was forced to consider.

That depressing line of thought was summarily quashed as the scent struck, stopping them all in their tracks. Jaina gagged and almost lost the contents of her stomach. A fetid stench swept over them all: rot, decay, death given insubstantial form. Arthas paused for only a moment before exploding into motion.

"Prince, wait!" Falric called.

"Arthas!" She and the other two scrambled in pursuit, struggling to keep up. He rounded a corner and abruptly halted several paces ahead of them. The war-hammer fell from his hand and he sank to armored knees. Jaina only noticed this peripherally, however. The courtyard ahead was dominated by a church of the light, presiding in an unimaginably cruel twist of fate over what had to be dozens of corpses strewn before it. Bodies of men, women, even children. This time she did retch onto the cobblestone, planting her staff and clutching it two-handed to hold herself up. Even the hardened, elite soldiers seemed frozen, appalled.

Jana pulled herself together momentarily, perhaps even the first to do, if numbly. Trying to reassert the alleged sense of logic her instructors had praised, and she hoped that she deserved. Arthas gave what may have been a choked sob, before lifting his weapon and rising to his feet. His back was turned to her, and she wasn't entirely certain whether the tremors wracking his frame were out of grief, rage or some amalgamation of the two. He made towards the scene, but before he could take two steps she invoked her power and teleported directly in front of him, placing a hand to the heavy, imbricated breastplate hard before he could react.

Arthas glared at her, all but growling, "some of them may stil-"

"No, Arthas," Jaina stated firmly. Albeit not without compassion, she hoped. "We are far too late. It has likely been days." She held his gaze, steadfast, not giving an inch. She was tall for a human woman - a gift of her Kul Tiran blood - and not far beneath his own height, which may have helped her own confidence.

He ultimately broke eye-contact first, looking down, face softening. When those eyes found hers once more, they were filled with tears. "What? How?" his voice shook.

She could not help some tears of her own, wiping them away with an arm. "I don't know, but we must find out."

Marwyn approached and placed a consoling hand on his friend's near pauldron. "Mage Jaina is right, highness." Arthas managed to give the barest of nods, conceding.

Jaina surveyed the grisly scene. "No visible injuries. It's as if they all simply walked to the church and died." Her voice was almost a mutter.

"And no sign of damage to the town. No evidence of combat of any kind." Falric added, perplexed.

Arthas had recovered enough to speak. "This couldn't be the entire population, could it? Do you think there may be others still alive?"

She shook her head slowly, hating the need to silence his hope. "I doubt it. Not within these walls, at least. Wait..." It struck her. Jaina would perhaps have caught it sooner, had she not been preoccupied mastering the shock she still felt. She spun, furtively scanning the area.

"Jaina, what is it?" Arthas had stepped towards her, protectively, it seemed. The other two looked back and forth, hands on hilts.

She turned to face him, eyes wide. "This wasn't an attack. It was research. Experimentation. A cursed laboratory!"

The three stared at her intently. "What are you talking about?" Arthas was confused, though she thought it may be dawning on the older two.

Jaina indicated the courtyard, "no cause of death we can perceive at this distance." She then pointed back the way they had come, "a gate warded to prevent inhabitants from entering or leaving, rather than outright kill. I suspect we would find similar barriers at any other entrances and exits, including the walls."

Now all looked as deeply disturbed as she no doubt did. "Can you be certain?" asked Arthas.

"You mentioned at Strahnbrad that you could sense something on the plague victims you healed near the capital. Do you detect anything similar here, Arthas?"

He shook his head. "No, nothing."

She stared at the bodies. "Perhaps it is only visible on the living. Or fades with time..." Jaina muttered, almost to herself. "We need to take a closer look."

"Is that wise?"

"We need answers. The realm needs answers," said Falric.

"And we can't approach without protection. I might be able to shield myself, but I do not know if I could do the same for you three. I would think that the powers of a paladin could prove more suitable." Jaina gave a quizzical look to theirs, "any chance?"

"Let's find out." Arthas raised his hands, which each emitting a bright, golden glow. That particular brand of energy felt pleasant and wholesome to both her mundane and mystical senses. Even more so when a similarly hued aura emanated from him and seemed to adhere to each of them, before the visual faded. Despite the gravity of the situation, Jaina felt just a little more safe, confident and hopeful than she had a moment before. The trademark light-blue nimbus of ice magic swirled around a hand as she conjured a glowing, icy oval barrier around her form. An aegis that should protect her from most threats, so long as it could be maintained.

With utmost caution, the four advanced. Just before they reached the first of the victims, Arthas paused, naturally drawing the attention of the others. "Prince Arthas?" Marwyn asked.

He took a moment in answering, in which his free gauntlet slowly curled into a fist. "Why didn't the light protect these people?" Arthas was understandably angry and seemed genuinely at a loss.

His guards couldn't bring themselves to answer, so Jaina did, gently. "There may have been none to use it here."

This did not have the consoling effect she had hoped for, as he only became more belligerent. "There should have been!"

"I don't know, Arthas"

The outburst seemed to slump into dejection. "Before a church..." he shook his head.

"We may not be able to help them, but any answers we find might enable us to stop this crisis. Save countless others." Jaina offered what she hoped was a kind, reassuring smile.

One and/or the other apparently worked, as Arthas nodded firmly and stood straighter. "What are we looking for?"

"I am not sure. Anything that does not belong, perhaps. Something that resonates with your gift could be invaluable." All gave words of assent. Jaina led the way, selecting the point thinnest in bodies to begin. She murmured a spell, then frowned. "I am not detecting anything magical." With a wave, she gently moved the corpses aside from a distance with her power, continually clearing a path inwards.

In what felt like moments, they were approaching what was roughly a central location with nothing to show for it. Jaina was struggling with the situation considerably more than she let on, and the thought that nothing might be learned to give some modicum of justice to the townsfolk was difficult to bear. She was beginning to despair of the search, yet as she prepared to turn to the others and call it off, she detected a flicker. Faint, but enough to make her skin crawl. A foul perversion of magic. She wasted no time, "I have something."

"Well done, what is it?" There was an aggressive eagerness to the voice of Arthas. She supposed he couldn't be blamed for that under the circumstances.

The three moved towards her. Without looking, Jaina thrust a palm at them. "Wait. I need to need to make sure it can be approached safely."

"Is it even safe for you, Mage Proudmoore?" Falric asked, cautiously.

"I like it even less than you, Captain. But we must trust her expertise." Arthas answered.

Jaina offered a grateful nod over a shoulder, "thank you. Just keep that aura strong, Arthas."

"I will."

She slowly moved towards the source, one of the civilian bodies ahead. Jaina could see it now, a slight, sickly-green glow. She bent over a little, noting its similarity to the signature she had seen on the gate, presumably invisible to those without arcane sensitivity. There was no external indication of the spells' function. It was difficult to be certain of how long it had been present. Most spell effects degraded over time and it seemed as if this one may indeed have done so. Nonetheless, the enchantment may very well have been placed while the victim was alive. Several days at most? Whatever the function of this spell, it had not been activated.

Jaina's analysis was momentarily disrupted and confirmed, alarmingly, as the unknown magic began to swell. Suddenly, she sensed similar sources all around reveal themselves and undergo the same process. To her horror, she realized their predicament. This experimentation culminated in a weapon test, and the four of them had blundered into the trap. A monstrous act to lure further victims, and they unwittingly took the bait!

"Trap!" she spun and shouted. Only belatedly did Jaina realize that in her panic, her focus had lapsed and enabled her barrier to fade. Made evident by the two pairs of decaying arms that reached for her legs and upended her. Fortunately Jaina's back made contact first in a relatively harmless position, but momentum nonetheless introduced the back of her head to the cobblestone hard enough to daze. In that time, she heard Arthas scream her name and dimly noticed corpses all around come to... a somewhat less decisive form of death.

They swarmed for her, and Jaina was in no shape to fight. In desperation, she invoked her power and was roughly thrust upward as her prone form was near instantaneously encased in ice shaped from pure magic. The mob of animated bodies crashed into and clambered all over this protective shell, scrabbling harmlessly. She might have experienced some small detached, morbid amusement - sandwiched between the terror and tragedy - were she not now dizzy, unable to breathe and capable of moving little more than her eyes. While she would be less affected by the temperature of the ice-block than most, it was nonetheless debilitating. Jaina would have no choice but to end the spell, very shortly.

---

Seconds after Jaina had begun her examination, Arthas felt it. Around every body, that same fell green appeared. This time it was was worse, carrying with it a vileness that almost seemed to seep through his armor and creep along his skin.

At the same time, Jaina turned and screamed "Trap!" But he blinked dumbly, briefly paralyzed with shock as somehow, impossibly, two of the bodies seized one of her legs each and tripped her backwards.

Discipline or simple panic asserted itself. "Jaina!" he shouted, as seemingly every corpse visible began climbing to its feet. While trying to move towards the mage, one body clamped on to his left leg. Immediately it began mindlessly clawing and biting at the plates, damaging itself in the process. Arthas drove the pommel of his hammer into the side of its' head, the force of the blow leaving a visible dent and jerking it backwards. He turned back towards Jaina, now experiencing another double-take as he saw a massive chunk of ice where she had been, crawling with those who had been his people. He attempted to rush towards her once more, only for the grip of his assailant to remain, continuing the futile assault.

Appalled, Arthas managed to tear his leg free and kick it aside, only for another of the creatures to leap in from his right. Without room for a proper swing, he rammed the head of his hammer into its' chest. This would have been unlikely to slay most opponents, but it did send this one to the ground, give him the sought after breathing room and audibly crack ribs in the process. A clean sword-sweep from Marwyn ended its attempts to rise. He and Falric had seemingly destroyed several already.

The bulk of the horde was evidently intent on Jaina, struggling futilely to break that crystalline shell. Nonetheless, they were clearly not entirely forgotten. Now risen soldiers were amongst those that came shambling for the three from several angles, perhaps to keep him from her. "Clear a path!" Arthas rushed the nearest soldier, which raised a sword, while seemingly unaware of impending doom. His heavy, longer weapon struck home while the creature had barely begun its' own strike.

The corpse did not seem to have the intelligence to perform anything more than basic, clumsy blows, and lacked the awareness to use a weapon and shield in any defensive form. Unimpeded, the hammer-head cratered the breastplate and crushed the torso behind, driving the cadaver from its feet. The blow would have mortally-wounded most opponents, and while the corpse still struggled feebly, it was clearly incapacitated. A blow to the head was enough.

Another longsword that he had failed to notice struck his left pauldron from the side, rebounding harmlessly. Evidently these monstrosities lacked some of the strength they had possessed in life - not that a living soldier would have been able to directly cut through such heavy armor. While Arthas addressed this latest, two more that had recently been civilians pounced from behind, latching on to his torso like leeches, causing him to stagger while warding off the sword.

A cry was forced from his lips, as by profound misfortunate a spear thrust from his right penetrated the corresponding junction of hip and thigh-plates as well as the mail beneath, driving partially into his upper leg. While not fatal in itself, such a wound could prove highly detrimental in any battle, and made his situation all the more desperate.

"Arthas!" Marwyn shouted. A risky glance revealed his now surrounded guards had engaged, or been engaged by the bulk of the dead - soldiers and civilians alike. Even those elites were hard-pressed at this time, so he supposed he could forgive the lapse of his title. The spear had been withdrawn, and was being repeatedly jabbed into his armor with no real coordination as the sword struck at his upper half. The paladin did not know if he could reinforce their armor while maintaining his present aura.

As Arthas reached for the light, intending to shield himself, he had a flash of inspiration. The paladin knew that powerful wielders of the light were capable of using it as a weapon, not merely protection and healing. His instructors had cautioned that such was antithetical to the purpose of paladins, only to be used as a last resort. He had adhered to that stricture, but present-circumstance certainly qualified.

"The light is my strength!" Arthas channeled that power, directing it at his assailants. A brilliant, golden glow burst forth, blasting the living-dead back a short distance and to the ground; where they gave pitiable and inhuman wails. They were smoking and wracked with convulsions briefly, before seeming to meet true death. Unfortunately he had no time to savor his latest triumph.

The paladin placed a luminous hand over his leg wound, feeling the usual moment of purity and peace as he mended that injury. A swift assessment told him that his men had gained the upper hand, blades destroying both unarmored and armored opponents with rapid, precise cuts and thrusts. Arthas now had an open route to the small hill of foes that fully obscured Jaina.

Arthas closed, hammer raised. Only to be sent sprawling by what was left of two walking corpses when the mound erupted with tremendous force, showering a sizable area with ice and the assorted remains of bodies. Stunned for a moment, he shakily picked himself up. The final few of the dead barring Falric and Marwyn had unwittingly taken the brunt of the barrage and were dispatched even more quickly, Arthas noted absently. The greater part of his focus was reserved for the figure struggling to climb out of what was left of the ice-prison that had almost become her tomb. Jaina slipped, rolling onto the cobblestone, gasping, wheezing and shivering. "Jaina!" He rushed to her side, lifting her to her feet as gently as he could.

"...Was...was that the last of them?" Jaina stuttered, clearly still dizzy, barely managing to hold her staff. In no shape to fight, it seemed.

"Hush." Arthas doubted she would appreciate such a statement, but hardly cared. He raised a hand and prepared to heal her, only to be interrupted by an unearthly caterwaul. On the far side of the square, doors burst open, disgorging yet more of the dead.

"Run!" The other two raced to their sides. Jaina remained unsteady, but was able to walk, leaning on Arthas while Marwyn took her other side as gently as he could. The four made for the gate as swiftly as possible.

Mercifully, no more corpses came between them and freedom in the short journey, though by sound they were close behind. Finally, the gate was in sight, and the spirit of Arthas soared. "Press on!" But moments before escaping the jaws of this perverse, monstrous trap, it snapped shut. Those same symbols appeared on the gates once more, and they sealed of their own accord. "No! Light, no!?"

All spun as the dirge ceased, replaced with an even more uncomfortable silence. They were surrounded by the dead, perhaps more than before, blocking any possible exit. Their foes began an almost deliberately slow advance, and Falric and Marwyn set their shields. "We may yet fight our way free, Prince."

Arthas ignored his ally, meeting eyes with his former partner. "Jaina..."

To his surprise, said sorceress stared back with nothing but fury and resolve. She firmly pushed herself off his side, staggering, and growled - not at him, he hoped - "I've had enough." Jaina unsteadily stepped past them, ignoring collective protestation, fixated on the foe. "ENOUGH!" she shouted.

The crystalline staff-head began to glow, with her open hand becoming wreathed in swirling, blue energy. This was the only warning the other three had, before Jaina swept that arm in a wide, forward arc, unleashing a volley of glowing ice shards in all directions in front of her. These lethal projectiles, as swift as any arrow, tore through every visible corpse and heavily damaged anything else in their path.

Jaina swayed slightly, but turned on her heel before any could reach her and squared her stance. "Move!" They barely had time to do so before the sorceress drew back the now instantly blue and violet sheathed hand for a moment, then thrust it ahead. An arcane, runic design of that same shade flared into existence before the gate, and the malevolent runes there glowed brighter, almost in challenge. Jaina grit her teeth as her hand, arm, and the gate itself began to shudder. Finally, the previous markings vanished and with an explosion of violet energy the gate was blasted asunder and outward with tremendous force.

Jaina's staff fell from nerveless fingers and she sagged, collapsing to the ground. Arthas took a step towards her, only for the three of them to freeze as the echoes of the detonation were replaced by screams and other sounds of battle. "Go!" The other two were already in motion. He held a hand over her frame and focused the light. It seemed that she was not in danger, merely driven unconscious by exhaustion. He knelt and lifted her into his arms, following his men as swiftly as he could.

Yet more chaos awaited. His mounted soldiers were locked in combat with more of the dead, holding their own, albeit deprived of the ability to properly use their mounts, several of whom had fallen. Falric and Marwyn were sprinting towards this new battle. Arthas followed as well as he could, bearing Jaina. It was over by the time he arrived, the flanking attack by his elites decisively ended the battle. He gently set the mage down and rushed in search of wounded.

---

Nearby voices roused her to consciousness. Jaina blinked, then straightened from the saddlebags she had been propped against. She felt considerably better than she had: head clear and fatigue lifted. The work of a paladin, no doubt.

The dialogue paused as others turned to regard her. "How do you feel?" Arthas sank down on one knee before her, face not-unreasonably concerned.

"Better, thank you." She climbed to her feet. "Where are we?"

"Several miles up the road from the town."

"What did I miss?" Jaina saw no reason to waste time.

His gaze fell to the ground, before meeting her own once more. "You saved us."

The words came off more bitter than grateful. What was his problem? Still, she wouldn't rise to the unwitting bait. "So I see."

"All of us owe you our gratitude, mage Proudmoore." Falric sent his commander a meaningful look before giving her a respectful, military bow with Marwyn and the other nearby soldiers following suit. Arthas grudgingly offered a sharp nod.

Jaina mirrored the soldiers whilst ignoring his attitude. "Thank you, Captain Falric. We are in this together, after all." Clearly the courtesy was appreciated, which was reward in itself. She surveyed the area more thoroughly. They stood a short distance off the road, a fairly level stretch with high visibility in all directions. Most soldiers remained mounted and vigilant, while others were taking rations nearby, presumably on rotation. All were downcast, even despondent, talking in hushed voices or observing their own dialogue. Alarmingly, there were assorted signs of recent combat: slightly battered equipment here and there, along with what may have been healed injuries on both soldiers and mounts.

She rounded on Arthas. "What happened?"

He took a moment in answering. "The same monsters ambushed the others before we escaped the town."

"Ambushed? How?" Jaina tried not to glare, suspecting the answer.

Arthas motioned to one of the nearby soldiers, 'Sergeant Wilhelm,' as she recalled, fourth in command of his troops. "They erupted from the ground beneath us, mage Proudmoore. I've never seen anything like it."

"How many did we lose?" she asked with some dread.

"Three soldiers and horses." The man spoke somberly, his brethren silent.

Now Jaina did glare at Arthas, struggling to restrain herself. "I told you that we should not enter the town alone. This is your doing!"

He bristled, "How could I have known what we would find? How could anyone?"

"And you led us unprepared into that deathtrap regardless! We barely escaped with our lives, and our companions were evidently far less fortunate."

Arthas bit back a retort with visible difficulty, releasing a frustrated sigh. "I regret that loss more than anyone, light knows. But we cannot allow their sacrifice to be in vain, can we? As you said, the information we found might turn the tide."

Jaina took a deep breath. There was logic in his statement, but Arthas sounded more callous than he likely realized and that was not particularly pleasant to hear. They had the attention of many, though. She resolved to let the subject rest, for the moment. "Perhaps."

Clearly Arthas felt vindicated by this. "Now, have you ever encountered or heard of such magic before?"

She shook her head, "no. Theoretically I suppose there is no reason it would be impossible, but if there is a precedent for engineering plagues and/or the creation of... un-dead? Any records would be near inaccessible if they do exist, and practice would absolutely be outlawed by the Kirin Tor, as with all dark magic. The level of depravity it would take to develop and refine this process..." Jaina shuddered involuntarily.

"Falric, Marwyn. You have both encountered orc warlocks and whatever it is that the trolls' practice, anything?"

Both men shook heads, the latter adding, "not to my knowledge. They certainly fit the 'depravity' aspect, but it seems like a power that would have have reared its head before now. It may be premature to draw conclusions, but for the moment I don't think orcs or trolls are behind this particular atrocity."

"I have never encountered a warlock. Or a troll-caster, for that matter. However, the spell craft we encountered almost seemed to more closely resemble the work of a sorcerer than warlock. From what I have heard and studied, at least. Admittedly, I could be mistaken and the distinction between the two can blur at times." Jaina added.

"But what advantage is there to these 'undead?' The four of us cleared a path through dozens in our escape," Arthas scoffed.

"Prince Arthas, we would have been hard-pressed indeed without our mage. To say nothing of the casualties taken outside the walls." Falric calmly, albeit firmly stated.

Arthas attempted the same affectation. "Both ambushes," he insisted, "it will not happen again."

"I hope you are right."

"I don't think our demise was even the objective of the trap. Not the primary one, at least." Jaina interjected, claiming attention.

"Would you elaborate, Jaina?" Arthas invited.

"It was a trial, of sorts. Everything about that scenario seems to have been engineered to create and test these animated corpses. Collectively, we are a formidable fighting force. Some of us were lured into a position of isolated vulnerability. Our foes then began the confrontation by deliberately targeting myself first - a mage would likely be considered the greatest threat.

"Near simultaneously, an ambush was launched on those outside the walls, from enemies placed in that specific location for an indefinite time. The number of these was very unlikely to defeat our own. Our entire company would have easily overcome the undead inside the town, but even that could possibly have provided useful information to the culprit. We may not have even been the first to fall into the snare. And whomever was behind this watched, probably from well before the town and those outside fell."

Inevitably, her words brought a brief, chilling silence amongst the others. "Did you sense someone?" Arthas asked, carefully.

"No. But it stands to reason."

"Indeed," Falric agreed.

"Well, my question remains in any case. What is the advantage of undead?" the paladin asked.

"Presumably they would not tire, eat, sleep, or face other such routine quirks we living must contend with. However, they should also be both slower and weaker in every regard, as our recent altercation seemingly affirmed." Jaina responded.

"Less effective in combat," Arthas nodded with an almost triumphant smile.

"Individually, at least." Marwyn warned.

"Furthermore, the magic clearly would require a dead subject. The number of undead therefore must be finite." Jaina considered a moment more. "Control, that has to be the strategy. A force of otherwise mindless corpses directly manipulated by the caster."

"With the hope of avoiding coordination related factors. And of course morale would no longer be relevant at all." Falric added, with both herself and others clearly in agreement. "There would be both benefit and cost."

"The moment the dead rose, I saw and sensed it again. That same aura, even fouler than before." Fairly, Arthas was troubled. "Do you think all the victims of this plague will become these undead?

She shook her head, "I can't say at this time. But seems as if they have a similar origin." Jaina sighed, "in any case, it appears we have confirmed that this plague is indeed magical in origin."

"Then we've waited long enough." He finished confidently, too much so. "We'll get to the bottom of this."

---

They hit the road once more. It was evident that they were passing into more inhabited regions, as little time had elapsed before they reached a hamlet, comprised of a cluster of farms and what appeared to be a granary. All likewise deserted.

"Do you think...?" Arthas posed, voicing what doubtless all in the company feared.

"Possibly," Marwyn did not mince words. He indicated the now slightly-climbing road and forested hill ahead. "There is a another village just beyond that rise. We should have encountered traffic, or at least a patrol by now."

"Come," Jaina took initiative, nosing her horse toward the farms. "Hopefully this should prove safer to investigate."

She heard a note of consternation in the voice of Arthas as he called, "forward, ranks one to five. The rest of you remain just beyond the first farm. Watch the ground." Doubtless a redundant statement, but he could hardly be blamed for that. The rest of the task force would be well within sight of their party. She felt the small respite of peace and purity once more as the aura washed over her once again.

Jaina sensed the tainted-magic all but immediately upon passing the initial structure. Slowly and carefully she led them forward, stopping shortly before the granary to dismount and approach on foot, followed by Arthas. The building would have otherwise been unremarkable, if not for the small ring of visibly corrupted ground surrounding it. "It's as if the land around it is... dying."

"How is that possible?" Arthas asked.

Jaina did not answer immediately, instead stretching out her senses, analyzing as well as she could. There, several grain-crates outside of the silo and what was left of their contents. She pointed at them,"the grain. It's in the grain." she spoke softly.

Arthas froze and paled. "Are... are you certain?"

Nodding, Jaina motioned, channeling a minor telekinetic spell to gently remove a lid, set it aside and levitate the few grains left within. She held them at that safe distance, continuing her arcane-scan. Unfortunately, there were little more than trace elements of the magical composition. Enough to be certain of the conclusion she had shared, but insufficient to glean the further answers necessary.

"Those crates bear the regional seal of Andorhal, the distribution center for the northern boroughs. If this grain can spread the plague, there's no telling how many villages might be affected, how far it might spread. May have already spread..." Arthas trailed-off. She had already deduced as much, but made no mention of it.

Frustrated, Jaina allowed the desiccated seeds to drop. "Most of the magic used is depleted. We need more intact samples."

Arthas frowned. "Is there nothing more you can gather from this?"

She turned towards him with a glare, attempting to maintain her tone. "Did I stutter? Unless you can produce a more capable mage, or divine answers more effectively with you own gifts, my efforts will have to suffice."

Rather than appear chastened in the slightest, Arthas instead matched her stare and opened his mouth to retort, only for Marwyn to tactfully intervene. "Perhaps the village ahead will provide what you require, mage Proudmoore."

"I hope so." Without a glance at Arthas, Jaina teleported smoothly into her saddle, and led the way back to the road. She often attempted to refrain from using her abilities so casually, but was too troubled and irritated to care.

---

The gates of the village were thrown wide as they approached, without sight or sound of life. Likely another tragedy, as had been the order of the day. Rather than exercise caution, Arthas instead spurred his horse, leaving the rest little choice but to do the same. As with many such dwellings, the broad main street clove a straight path, bisecting much of the village. Soon enough, Jaina spied trouble, giving a firm "stop."

Remarkably, Arthas listened this time. He raised a hand for halt, "what is it?"

Jaina didn't care for his tone, but that hardly mattered at the moment. She pointed at a large structure ahead, and the figures before it, which all had caught sight of by now. "That looks like a grain warehouse, and they are using the same magic..."

Fury had enveloped his face at the sight. Arthas hefted the maul as well as he could mounted, clearly preparing to charge.

"Prince, caution!" Falric insisted.

Arthas growled, but heeded the advice, advancing at a more measured pace. Until he paused as the foe came into greater focus. Several humanoids swathed in heavy, hooded robes of black with green epaulets and embroidery channeled that foul power into crates, presumably containing grain. In the center stood what was clearly an absurdly-attired individual even at a distance, wearing voluminous robes and jagged, outsized pauldrons.

This individual pointed towards them. "We've been discovered! Depart, my brothers and sisters, the operation must continue!" His minions moved to synchronized points, vanishing in flares of that malevolent light.

"No!" Arthas surged forward.

"Arthas, wait!" Inevitably, he refused to acknowledge her, rushing into what was likely another trap while the others accelerated in his wake.

The enemy gave a mocking bow, "your pardon, but duty calls." With a wave of his staff, that same glow heralded the teleportation of numerous undead. With a similar motion from a now green-glowing hand, he vanished as still more of the dead clawed their way out of nearby ground or rounded the corners ahead. Much of this latest variety bore weapons of some sort, and some retained the armor of the soldiers they may have been in life.

Arthas gave a howl of frustration, charging through several undead while laying about with his hammer. So far he had managed to retain momentum and avoid a surround, while his own plate and the barding on his horse protected them well - in tandem with the the aura he now emitted.

Thankfully, the enemy no longer had the element of surprise and the cavalry entered the battle decisively. Unfortunately, Jaina had been outpaced by the others and could not risk fully utilizing her abilities without friendly fire. Even a water elemental might entail collateral damage. She did sight an opening, however, wasting no time in shaped the arcane into her favored frost magic.

Raising glowing, blue hands, the mage summoned a localized nimbus of the same color above the largest cluster of undead. In accordance with her precise will, Jagged icicles formed and plummeted upon them to lethal effect. Jaina released the spell when her foes in the area had been decimated. There was little more she could do at this time.

It seemed that the battle was in their favor. Regrettably, some of that balance shifted as several soldiers were pushed toward the warehouse. The door burst outward, revealing something that was truly the stuff of nightmares. It had to be ten feet tall; a pestilent, corpulent flesh-amalgamation with three arms clutching outsized cleavers and a hooked chain, along with a gaping hole in its bloated chest.

The opening of the hefty doors had toppled several of the dead and struck one soldier from their mount, causing two others a slight, involuntary skitter. Before any could intervene, a cleaver was brought down with audible force on the chest-plate of their downed comrade as they tried to rise. Even the masterfully crafted armor failed to repel the massive blow and was rent asunder, probably the torso beneath as well.

Line of sight. Jaina looked around, then upward. She had no clear visibility of the nearest rooftop, but would risk no less than her brothers and sisters in this endeavor. In the blink of an eye the mage attuned herself to the envisaged location, teleported and... overshot. She fell a short distance and slipped, dropping her staff and narrowly catching the steep edge. Teleporting again within such a short window could be dangerous even in itself, and so scrabbling furiously, Jaina tried to climb up, failed, and fell. With a swift word - followed by several frustrated curses - the sorceress adjusted the flow of magic within and without, slowing her momentum to drift safely downward.

In those instants, the corpse golem had somehow managed to lash that long, brutal chain around another soldier. Jaina desperately tried to use her elevation despite her unstable position and hurled several arcane projectiles, all of which missed. With an oddly high-pitched scream, the man was yanked from his horse and caught in a fist; then promptly, horrifyingly, shoved into the yawning innards which closed almost like a mouth.

"Wilhelm! No!" She heard Arthas shout, then saw him charging towards the thing as she touched down. When the paladin closed, she found a slight opening, hurling a jagged, oversized shard of ice, shearing the chain arm of the creature clean-off. It recoiled from the wound, likely more the result of incomprehensible loss of ability than pain.

Arthas released the reins and raised his now luminous hammer with both hands, striking aside a cleaver and using his mounted elevation to deliver a powerful and suitably dramatic blow into the hideous parody of a face. The head crumpled instantly, enveloped in searing, golden energy. The monster fell like a puppet with strings cut, even managing to crush two of its' smaller brethren in the process.

The remaining undead had already been near defeat and were dealt with in short order. Jaina called out to Arthas, "do what you can for them. I will find what we need." He nodded, though she had already moved on. In the same manner as earlier, the mage extracted several samples with utmost care, determining immediately that the magic was intact. She encased these in enchanted ice, then wove a magical pocket dimension around it for later evaluation.

Arthas approached, "destroy that warehouse, Now!"

Any other time Jaina might have called him out, but they were all battered and weary. She motioned others back a safe distance, wordlessly summoned a pillar of flame upon the building. They watched the immolation together, companions waiting a respectful distance behind them.

"The wizards, dressed in black?" he asked.

She turned towards Arthas, "I don't know. Their leader was powerful, I am certain he was behind what was done to that town. Furthermore, I suspect that he may be responsible for engineering the plague itself. Now, I should have what is needed to confirm that."

"Good. Then yet more of the battle is won." Arthas nodded.

Jaina didn't have the heart to tell him otherwise right then, and kept her counsel.

"I think we'll find him, and the answers we're looking for, in Andorhal."

---

Third mission of the campaign, and the rapid train wreck continues to accelerate.

'Ravages of the Plague' should have been the grand reveal of the undead, both to the player and warcraft setting at large. Instead, characters casually stumble upon a small succession of skirmishes with no surprise, suspense, or even challenge. This enemy faction is treated like a minor, well established nuisance, rather than a terrifying new threat.

Arthas has still displayed absolutely none of the obligatory character flaws for certain coming events.

First appearance of Jaina, and it is laughable. On average, blizzard might just be even worse at writing female characters than their counterparts; even if the latter occupy the peak. Jaina displays effectively no agency for the entirety of warcraft three. Functionally wow as well, for that matter, but such is a different conversation.

She is defined by her use to validate other inane characters and plot points, most notably Arthas - and by extension the writers themselves - without ever appearing to me as a living, breathing and significant individual in this world. In essence, an npc in what was ostensibly a character-ensemble driven story.

As an example, considering that Jaina and Arthas evidently had a notable break-up some time before the beginning of this campaign, it strikes me as unlikely that she would be instantly friendly, and far more so flirtatious. The first could be forgiven, perhaps. However, the second is highly unrealistic in many, even most cases, as I and likely many possible readers could attest.

Ultimately I value well-written characters, with gender entirely irrelevant. As a result, a change to this ridiculous portrayal had to be attempted.