Resurgence of the Light ch 22

The completion of the fort marked a significant milestone, with additional reinforcements arriving to bolster their forces in readiness for the impending assault on Naxxramas. This development brought Sylvanas, Uther, Krasus, and Bolvar together in the command center, diligently working to devise the most effective plan for the upcoming attack. However, despite their collective efforts, a conspicuous obstacle hindered their planning process.

"…all this is mere conjecture; we're lacking vital information about Naxxramas itself. We must determine how we're going to acquire it," Uther vocalized, echoing the thoughts shared by everyone in the room.

Afterward, a brief silence enveloped the room as everyone contemplated their next steps. Their attention was abruptly diverted by the opening of the doors. In the doorway stood Light’s Chosen, stepping inside with an unwavering and composed demeanor, undeterred by the gravity of the situation.

"It is time for our assault on Naxxramas to commence; a significant wave of undead is approaching our location," he announced before directing his attention to Krasus. "You'll need to lead a counterattack against them, as a substantial snowstorm is also incoming, which will hinder our ability to effectively respond."

Aware of the approaching undead and having drafted plans to confront them, the news of an impending snowstorm disrupted many of their strategies. Krasus, in particular, narrowed his eyes in concern. "This isn't a natural snowstorm, is it?" he questioned, suspecting something more ominous behind the sudden weather change.

Light’s Chosen fixed his gaze on Krasus for a brief moment. "You are correct; it's being conjured by the Frost Wyrms, which are also being deployed for a simultaneous attack. At present, they are concealed high in the skies," he explained, confirming Krasus's suspicions about the unnatural storm and its origin.

"What?!" Uther exclaimed, mirroring the shock that resonated through their collective thoughts. "You should've alerted us earlier, lad!" Uther was poised to summon someone when Light’s Chosen interjected, seemingly about to offer an explanation.

"Remain calm, Uther. I've been monitoring their movements," Light’s Chosen reassured in a composed tone. "Initially, I perceived them as mere scouts. However, with the incoming undead, their true intent became evident," he calmly explained.

Krasus fell silent upon learning about the dragons now under the influence of undeath. A storm of anger and sorrow surged within him, yet he quelled those emotions, allowing determination to fill the void instead.

“Very well, we will make sure to take care of them and the other undead. Besides, we are a bit too large to assist inside Naxxramas itself, as our power is somewhat limited in our Visages.”

Light’s Chosen tilted his head while still looking at Krasus, prompting a raised eyebrow in question. “Is something the matter?” Krasus asked, feeling as if Light’s Chosen desired to say something in response to his statement.

"While your point is generally valid, I would prefer your presence within Naxxramas. There's a particular matter that requires your personal attention before we conclude our mission in there," Light’s Chosen asserted. As Krasus leaned forward to seek more information, Light’s Chosen raised his hand, forestalling further inquiry. "Later. For now, let us concentrate on the task at hand within Naxxramas," he suggested, redirecting their focus to the immediate mission.

At that, a collective glance passed among everyone in the room, and a sense of disappointment settled in. "While we would certainly wish to strategize, our lack of knowledge regarding what lies inside is a significant obstacle," Bolvar finally articulated. This encounter marked Bolvar's first interaction with Light’s Chosen, and he remained uncertain about his impressions of this enigmatic figure. Light’s Chosen exuded undeniable power and a commanding presence, even during their initial meeting, leaving Bolvar with a mix of admiration and wariness.

Bolvar found himself taken aback by the unapproachable aura surrounding Light’s Chosen. Although nothing physically obstructed anyone from approaching him, an inexplicable unease settled within Bolvar whenever he contemplated doing so. Moreover, the vigilant stance of the Lightforged Rangers, who closely monitored and swiftly reacted to any lingering gaze cast upon the Chosen, heightened Bolvar's discomfort. Their unwavering focus made him feel distinctly uneasy and self-conscious, reluctant to draw their unwarranted attention by getting too close to the enigmatic figure.

Furthermore, the concept of Lightforged Undead perplexed Bolvar beyond measure. It appeared not just unnatural but fundamentally contradictory—Undead beings infused with the Light. This paradoxical fusion, while accepted by the Light itself, stirred an uncomfortable disquiet within him. The very idea challenged his understanding of the natural order, leaving him deeply unsettled.

"Which is precisely why I am here," Light’s Chosen announced before conjuring a radiant Light construct that took the form of Naxxramas, hovering above the table where they were assembled. "The primary detail you need to grasp is the extensive utilization of spatial manipulation magic within Naxxramas," he explained as the projection transformed, revealing the intricate layout of the Scourge stronghold.

Surprise flickered across their faces as they observed the colossal size of the structure, swiftly realizing it was divided into four distinct sections.

"As you've undoubtedly observed, there are four primary sectors within." Words materialized above each section: Construct Quarter, Arachnid Quarter, Plague Quarter, Military Quarter—clearly delineating the different segments of Naxxramas.

"As you can see, each of these quarters serves a specific purpose. Let's commence with the Construct Quarter. This area predominantly focuses on fleshcrafting, where Abominations and Flesh Giants are created. There are four main threats within this quarter," Light’s Chosen elucidated. An image of Patchwerk emerged above the Construct Quarter, representing the most formidable abomination crafted by the Scourge.

"Patchwerk is the most potent among abominations, boasting remarkable physical strength and an astonishingly swift attack speed," he explained, the image shrinking to remain visible on the map. Another image surfaced, this time of Grobbulus, a towering flesh giant filled with toxic substances ready to expel upon his adversaries.

"Grobbulus is a formidable presence, unleashing poisonous assaults on its foes," he continued before revealing an image of Gluth, a plague-infested canine-like creature.

"While not particularly threatening beyond its obvious nature, Gluth can enrage itself to bolster its own strength," Light’s Chosen remarked as Gluth's image reduced in size. Following this, a colossal giant appeared on the map.

"Arguably the most perilous foe in this quarter is Thaddius. A composite creation of human flesh and machinery, Thaddius wields lightning and manipulates positive and negative polarities to attract and repulse metal, such as armor and weaponry," he concluded the comprehensive explanation, allowing the gathered individuals to absorb the crucial information.

"Uther, I suggest you lead the strongest force to address this quarter, as it is the second most perilous area following the Military Quarter," Light’s Chosen advised, breaking the brief silence that had settled among them and drawing their attention back to him.

Uther furrowed his brows thoughtfully. "If the Military Quarter is the most perilous, wouldn't it be prudent to deploy our strongest force there?"

"I will handle the Military Quarter," Light’s Chosen declared firmly, catching Uther off guard momentarily before he nodded in comprehension and agreement.

Bolvar's uncertainty persisted. "Are you entirely certain that's the best course? Dividing our attack forces with the strongest individuals split between the two quarters might heighten the risk of failure," he remarked, considering it a fairly evident notion. "Wouldn't it be wiser to concentrate our efforts on either the Military or the Construct Quarters with the full strength of our attack group?" Bolvar believed his rationale was logical, although the expressions on the faces of the others left him feeling uncertain.

Krasus couldn't help but appear mildly amused by Bolvar's words, his expression carrying a sense of understanding rather than condescension, akin to a parent observing their child's curious musings. Meanwhile, Sylvanas raised an eyebrow in response to Bolvar's statement, displaying little emotion beyond that. Uther, on the other hand, maintained his focus on studying the map spread before him, seemingly lost in contemplation.

"You've misunderstood, Bolvar Fordragon. Only one individual will accompany me; the remainder will be divided among the other quadrants," Light’s Chosen clarified in a straightforward manner. As this information was disclosed, the others exhibited a noticeable intrigue, curious about the identity of the person chosen to accompany Light’s Chosen and the reasons behind it.

Bolvar was taken aback by this response, feeling a surge of anger within him. "Now hold on, this is no moment for reckless heroics. We can't afford to jeopardize our plan due to misplaced arrogance," he exclaimed, slamming his hand onto the table before him. Observing Bolvar's growing agitation, Uther let out a sigh and then reached out, placing a comforting hand on the man's shoulder to divert his attention.

"Bolvar, there's no trace of misplaced arrogance in his decision. He doesn't need our assistance; in fact, he could launch an assault on Naxxramas alone and emerge victorious. He doesn't rely on our aid; rather, we depend on his," Uther affirmed resolutely, his tone carrying a weighty seriousness that left no room for doubt.

Bolvar regarded Uther with surprise. Although he had heard such sentiments before, he hadn't placed much credence in them. To hear Uther himself express it so gravely, driving the point home, stirred a profound realization within him. However, another question lingered in his mind.

"Then… why are we even here? Why not simply obliterate the Scourge?" Bolvar directed the question to Light’s Chosen, seeking clarification.

A heavy silence descended upon the command room. Krasus cast a disappointed glance at Bolvar, while Sylvanas briefly displayed a sneer. Uther shook his head with a sense of regret. Light’s Chosen directed his gaze towards Bolvar, maintaining a silent and penetrating stare. After a brief pause, he spoke slowly, his voice tinged with a hint of condescension.

"Would you like me to wipe your ass for you as well?" he remarked dryly, his tone carrying an air of disdain.

Bolvar flushed with embarrassment and was poised to respond when Uther abruptly intervened.

"ENOUGH!" Uther's voice boomed as he slammed his fist on the table. "This is neither the time nor the place for such arguments. We have plenty to contend with without engaging in petty disputes like children," Uther asserted firmly. "Bolvar, this world belongs to us too, and we must exert every effort to safeguard it instead of depending solely on others to rescue us."

Bolvar suppressed his anger, displaying a demeanor of genuine contrition. As Uther redirected his attention to Light’s Chosen, he let out a weary sigh, rubbing his forehead in exasperation.

"Could you not be so obstinate, lad?" Uther uttered wearily, expressing his fatigue with the situation.

"Very well, let us proceed. The Arachnid Quarter follows, primarily inhabited by Nerubians and Cultists," Light’s Chosen pressed on, indicating the next quadrant on the map. Three distinct figures materialized atop the section.

"For the most part, confronting these three should not pose substantial difficulty. Nevertheless, prudent caution is advised. Anub’Rekhan, Grand Widow Faerlina, and Maexxna remain formidable members of the Scourge and warrant due regard," he emphasized regarding the powerful entities within this section.

Light’s Chosen fixed his gaze on the composed Bolvar with an inscrutable expression. "You ought to handle this quarter," he declared in a resolute tone.

Bolvar narrowed his eyes slightly, repressing the words poised to be spoken. Instead, he chose to offer a curt nod in acknowledgment, refraining from any additional reply.

Light’s Chosen redirected his attention to the map, emphasizing the Plague Quarter. "Following is the Plague Quarter, where the bulk of the efforts on enhancing the Plague of Undeath are underway. They are refining it, intensifying its potency. This area is saturated with the plague and poses one of the greatest hazards to any living beings who enter," he elucidated, turning towards Sylvanas, who acknowledged his explanation with a nod of comprehension.

Above the Plague Quarter, three distinct figures materialized. "Noth the Plaguebringer, Heigan the Unclean, and Loatheb. Of the trio, Loatheb presents the greatest danger, originally a Fungal creature prior to the Scourge's transformation. It has been saturated with the Plague of Undeath and can disperse spores containing the plague. Though it should not be effective against you, it is advisable to evade infection, likewise for any other forms of plague present in the quarter. Undoubtedly, they have enhanced it, so exercise caution," Light’s Chosen cautioned about the potential threats within this section.

As Light’s Chosen fell silent, affording the others a moment to mull over their designated tasks, Krasus opted to interject. "So, that leaves us with the Military Quarter and the presence of Kel’thuzad himself," he remarked, acknowledging the remaining objectives yet to be addressed.

Light’s Chosen shifted his attention to Krasus, conveying a sense of exasperation through his demeanor. "Very well," he accentuated, highlighting the Military Quarter on the map. "This quadrant serves as the training ground for new Death Knights."

Seven distinct figures emerged on the display, startling everyone with the magnitude of threats concentrated in this single area. "Instructor Razuvious and Gothink the Harvester are insignificant pests and do not pose a significant threat," he remarked dismissively about two of the figures as they were minimized on the map.

Light’s Chosen then drew attention to a cluster of four figures. "Lady Blaumeux," he announced, prompting Uther to widen his eyes in recognition of the name. However, further surprises awaited him. "Thane Korth’azz, Sir Zeliek," Light’s Chosen continued, causing Uther to look down at the table in sorrow upon hearing the names of his old comrades who had been turned into instruments of the Scourge.

Light’s Chosen remained silent, refraining from mentioning the name of the final individual, prompting the others to look at him with puzzled expressions. Even Uther lifted his head after a deep breath, preparing himself before inquiring, "Who is the last individual?" His tone carried a tinge of sadness.

"Alexandros Mograine, the Ashbringer," Light’s Chosen uttered with a devoid of emotion in his voice, causing everyone, except Krasus, who lacked familiarity with Alexandros, to recoil in sheer horror at the revelation.

Uther bellowed in fury and delivered a forceful blow to the table, shattering it into pieces. He then turned his gaze downward, his fists tightly clenched in evident frustration. While Krasus felt a surge of curiosity about the identity of Alexandros and what could provoke such a visceral reaction from Uther, the situation hardly seemed appropriate for inquiry.

Light’s Chosen shifted his attention towards Krasus. "Regarding the Lich Kel’thuzad, his sanctum can only be accessed once all the quarters have been cleared," he explained with a decisive tone.