96Chapter Eleven: Kalecgos
Arthas had run the numbers several times as he organized the shoring up of defenses. Several more skirmishes were fought with the Blood Elves, and these were inconclusive. He'd considered the distances from what he'd read in maps, then Kael'thas' capabilities.
At last, as the day wore on and a new bastion was established, he faced Anub'arak. "He's right. We'll never reach the glacier in time."
"There is another route we might take, death knight," noted Anub'arak. "The ancient, shattered kingdom of Azjol-Nerub lies deep below us. Though it has fallen on dark times, it could provide us a direct shortcut to the glacier."
"We have little choice," mused Arthas. "Lead on, Anub'arak."
And then, who showed up again, but Tyrygosa, lying down to land before them. Arthas reflected she looked very nice in leather. Especially her legs, and as he bowed, he admired her other assets. "I think I could help with that."
"Lady Tyrygosa, you've returned," said Arthas.
"Yes, Malygos has dispatched me to assist you in your journey. I know a means by which you could quickly bypass the defenses of our enemies," said Tyrygosa. "I can get you as far as Azjol Nerub, certainly. And I can provide you passage through the guardians who have set up shop there."
"Guardians?" asked Arthas.
"There is a large contingent of humans and dwarves who dwell there. They do on the orders of your former lieutenant, Falric," said Anub'arak. "Originally established as an outpost, he has made an alliance with my former subjects.
"They are unlikely to let us pass without a fight."
"They will if Lord Malygos commands it. His influence is strong," said Tyrygosa.
"Yes, because the will of the Dragon Aspects has proven itself to be beyond infallible in the past," noted Arthas.
Tyrygosa put two fingers to her brow. "If you accept my aid, you may pass unhindered. Ignore it, and you are sure to end up fighting your former comrades again."
Arthas smiled. "You make a persuasive argument, milady. But I doubt you can carry us all."
"Fortunately, there is a lair near here, where one of our most powerful kind resides," said Tyrygosa. "Sapphiron and his children are there. When you arrive, we will ferry you and as many soldiers as we can to Azjol Nerub."
"And what of the battle waging here?" asked Anub'arak.
"We've already bloodied Kael'thas' nose and a prolonged engagement, even if won, will not aid us," said Arthas. "Send word to all my subjects, tell them to go underground, and evade the elves.
We know this land far better than them, so it should prove simple.
"Soon enough, Kael'thas will have to pull back to deal with my arrival."
"It is a good plan." mused Anub'arak. "In that regard, there is good news. My agents have succeeded in convincing the Ice Trolls to begin practicing Necromancy. They have not yet broken with Falric's forces, but they have already sheltered many of our agents.
"Kael'thas would be a fool to attack while so protected."
"And he is not," noted Arthas. "Lead on, Tyrygosa."
Quickly setting things in order, Arthas left sure of his force's ability to hold their own. They journeyed north along the coast, with their forces in tow. Tyrygosa walked in her elven form, occasionally sending glances to Arthas. It was always when she thought he wasn't looking.
For his part, Arthas had questions of his own. This area was once a powerful stronghold of the undead, he remembered it from Muradin's maps. Eventually, he approached her. "So, Tyrygosa, this a far-flung lair to have established yourself in. How have you avoided being destroyed by the undead before now?"
"Sapphiron is a being of immense power, and at his disposal are many of the Blue Dragonborn," said Tyrygosa. "They have held out a long time against many threats, and they will long after you have come and gone." Arthas looked at her flatly. "...And, of course, your forces helped a great deal. Destroying Drak'theron Keep interfered with Ner'zhul's ability to wage war. And Archimonde's... intervention, was quite effective at sewing chaos."
"So, you've been in cooperation with my forces," noted Arthas. Or rather, his former forces.
"Leading them, actually," said Tyrygosa. "Malygos has created an alliance of many living races for the purpose of fighting the scourge. Now, with victory in sight, however, that alliance stands on difficult ground."
"Why?" asked Arthas, not liking the idea of Falric taking orders from anyone else.
"Hmm?" asked Tyrygosa.
"What are you doing to alienate those serving under you?" asked Arthas.
Tyrygosa flushed. "What makes you so certain it's our fault."
"You're the leader," said Arthas. "By definition, literally everything is your fault. Why do you think I put Falric in charge of my forces before I left. If I had remained the leader, it would have led to serious problems." Such as all of them being turned into undead, for one.
"The Blue Dragonflight has done everything for their betterment," replied Tyrygosa.
"A likely story," scoffed Anub'arak. "Making common cause with the Nerubians was a poor strategic move. Their situation was untenable, and you stretched your resources thin. Had Archimonde not appeared just then, your position might well have been overrun."
"The purpose of this alliance is to purge the undead from Northrend," said Tyrygosa.
"Did you clear that purpose with those who were part of this alliance?" asked Arthas, beginning to see where this was going.
"...Should we have to?" asked Tyrygosa. "We are their guardians, after all."
"Ah, I see. I'll take that as a no, then," said Arthas.
"That was what allowed me to get my hold on Zul'amon," said Anub'arak. "He and his frost trolls were enthusiastic about war with the undead. And they were willing to put aside their differences with old enemies to conquer new lands.
"However, they have no interest in dwelling underground. And had nothing to gain by helping the Nerubians. At that time, their position was largely secure, and they regarded the venture as a waste of resources."
"That was why we posted them on defenses," said Tyrygosa. "They were assigned to guard the border while the other fought in Azjol Nerub."
"Your defenses were on the verge of being destroyed by Ner'zhul. Then Archimonde came," noted Anub'arak. "I doubt they would have held. And they knew it."
"Who are you to have such an understanding of the Ice Trolls, creature?" asked Tyrygosa.
"I do not," replied Anub'arak. "It is a matter of historical record that to be united in hatred is no union at all."
"Far more than that unites all who live," replied Tyrygosa.
"The need to breathe?" guessed Arthas.
"The desire to preserve life," said Tyrygosa, as if that were profound.
Arthas was unimpressed. "Name one great figure in the history of this world who did not achieve his position through oceans of blood?"
Tyrygosa halted.d "I... well... that is...
"Ugh, why can't Kalec get this job!"
"Kalec?" asked Anub'arak before Arthas could inquire.
"My future mate, Malygos has been grooming him as a potential successor," said Tyrygosa. "He's been in command of the Blue Dragonflight armies. That makes him, technically, the commander in chief of the Dragon Alliance."
"Technically?" asked Arthas.
"Falric is a troublesome human who argues with every decision he makes," said Tyrygosa. "He's following orders in a way that goes along with what he thinks should be done. I suspect that it was he who subverted Zul'amon's loyalties. He is the only person Zul'amon will talk with now, and Falric has been using it to try and gain control for himself."
"Falric is an experienced soldier. He fought in every major battle of the Second War," replied Arthas. "He was an invaluable lieutenant in the Third War and is highly accomplished. If he believes that an idea is foolish, there is generally a good reason for it."
"And how do you even know he is the same man you knew then?" asked Tyrygosa. "You aren't."
Arthas reflected that she had a point. He and many others had been transformed by this miserable set of wars. Who's to say that Falric likewise hadn't gone mad, like some within Lordaeron. Though he had Marwynn with him and a great army. Arthas could not see it happening, even if he didn't deny it.
"We're here," said Tyrygosa.
The cave of Sapphiron was an immense one with carved pillars on either side. Bluescaled, centaur-like creatures guarded it, and Arthas could see several villages of them. As they entered, they found Sapphiron.
Arthas had thought Tyrygosa to be large; however, Sapphiron was immense. His tail alone was larger than Tyrygosa's dragon form. His head was the size of a carriage, and one of his eyes was the size of a shield. Lying down, he arose from an immense hoard of gold, pulled himself upward. Out of two side passages came two other, immense dragons.
The undead behind Arthas stepped back fearfully.
"You dare enter my lair?" said the voice, echoing through the entire chamber. "I am Sapphiron, ancient servant of Malygos the Spell-Weaver! Explain yourselves!"
Arthas put a hand to his sword, just in case. "Sorry, we don't have time to chat, great wyrm. We've come demand you provide free transportation to the gates of Azjol Nerub."
"Honesty, how refreshing," replied Sapphiron. "The preparations are all complete.
"General Kalec should be arriving alongside the others. You may wait outside."
Arthas nodded, and they moved back out. Sapphiron seemingly went back to sleep, while his sons went here and there. Sapphiron's sons were half his size, and large enough to perch on a mountaintop.
Meanwhile, the centaur-like creatures gave them a wide birth. For his part, Arthas focused on sending messages with Frostmourne. His forces had come across the naga and high elves and had several battles with them.
Drawing them back, he arranged the summoning of powerful defenses and led the clashes of ships at sea. These were an even fight as well, though he came out slightly, the better in the end. As he did, he looked up to where Tyrygosa was practicing her magic, and a question came to him. "To what end is Kalecgos coming here?"
Tyrygosa looked up. "He likely wanted to meet you personally.
"This is a great honor, Arthas. He's, well, you humans might view him as a Prince of the Blue Dragonflight."
"Your point? Anub'arak is a King, and so am," said Arthas, annoyed at being forced to sit out on the doorstep.
"Well, yes, but you must realize that a mortals rank as King means a lot less than a Dragon's equivalent," said Tyrygosa.
"Why?" asked Arthas flatly.
"Isn't it obvious?" asked Tyrygosa. "We are immortal and naturally far wiser and more powerful. So it's only natural that, well, we ought to be regarded as higher than our mortal equivalents. With no disrespect intended."
"Why should I be considered an equivalent to any dragon?" asked Arthas. "Shall I list my credentials?"
"Well, yes, obviously you are very powerful for a human, but... nevermind, why don't we drop this." Tyrygosa shifted.
Soon enough, Kalecgos and the blue dragons did arrive. They came in a large group, flying in a v formation and descending down. In their talons were clasped great baskets meant for carrying people. Soon enough, they landed in the village, as Arthas oversaw the raising of new armies. Many bodies were taken from caches put aside for such a moment as this.
One of the blue dragons, larger than the others but otherwise unremarkable, took on human form. No, wait, it was actually elven form, and he was coming toward him. Tyrygosa ran toward him. "Kalec, you're finally here. I was beginning to get lonely without you."
"Not now, Tyry," said Kalecgos, moving past her.
Arthas realized Kalecgos was looking at him. Arthas glanced up and wondered what he wanted. "It's been a long time, Prince Arthas."
"King Arthas, thank you," replied Arthas, focusing on leading a group of lost ghouls back home. "And we've never met before."
"Um, yes, you have," said Tyrygosa.
Arthas blinked and looked up. "When?"
"In Dalaran," said Kalecgos.
"So you were in disguise as a student, then?" asked Arthas. "Was it when I was courting Jaina?"
"No, no, after that," said Tyrygosa.
"Oh, so he was helping Kael'thas in disguise when we were fighting the scourge," guessed Arthas. Perhaps one of his lieutenants?
"Before that," said Kalecgos through gritted teeth.
Arthas thought about the other situations he'd been at Dalaran for. "...So, you fought in the Siege of Dalaran in disguise?"
"You freed both of us, Arthas," said Tyrygosa.
"...I did?" asked Arthas. "I mean, I remember I freed you, but...
"Oh right, now I remember. You're that other dragon who I didn't kill." Right, Tyrygosa had made herself useful, so he'd come to regard the other one as a sort of sidekick.
"...Yes, yes I am," hissed Kalecgos.
"I lost hundreds of my men because of you," said Arthas, voice annoyed. "That delay you caused slowed down our advance and led to the gryphon riders tearing us to pieces in our retreat."
"They're just undead," scoffed Kalecgos. "You made more right after."
Arthas could tell they were going to get along just splendidly. "Kalec, is it?"
"My name is Kalecgos, Kalec is an abbreviation used by friends," replied Kalec.
"Ah, of course," said Arthas. "Perhaps we should discuss the situation. What do you know about what Kael'thas is doing, and how is he doing it?"
"I have several things to tell you, actually," said Kalecgos. "First off, Kael'thas has uncovered a vast body of an ancient dragon. One greater than any dragon to ever lived named Galakron. Even now, his warlocks, under the leadership of Illidan, are working to resurrect it."
"How large is this creature?" asked Arthas.
"Large enough that we need to finish our business soon," said Kalecgos. "Ner'zhul, of course, worked for years to resurrect the beast. However, he never had powerful enough subordinates to make it work.
"With Illidan, the succubus Kirrasan, and Vashj, he has all he needs."
"None of them are necromancers. I would know, I worked with most of them," said Arthas.
"Many of the undead in the north have declared for Kael'thas," said Kalecgos. "I doubt they will come to his aid if things go against him. But it seems he has succeeded in partially dominating Ner'zhul."
"I doubt it," said Arthas.
"Do you have a better idea?" asked Tyrygosa.
"Ner'zhul was tortured for years by Kil'jaden, and that did not break his will," said Arthas. "Kael'thas would not fair better in a month. I find it far more likely that Ner'zhul is playing the long game.
"Likely he is negotiating with Kael'thas, giving him partial control of the scourge. Perhaps in the hopes of turning the tables at an opportune moment."
Tyrygosa nodded. "What he's saying makes sense, Kalec. And it would fit with Ner'zhul's style. Corrupt and conquer."
"What he's saying..." began Kalecgos. "May I remind you that he's a warrior, not a mage. What could he know about mental domination?"
"How many Lich King's have you broken free of, Kalecgos?" asked Arthas. "Either way, it doesn't change our present priority. Get me to Azjol Nerub, and I'll deal with the rest."
"Before we can begin transporting anything, we'll need to secure this area," said Kalec. "The elves and naga have bastions here, and we need to root them out."
"Not really, you can fly us straight there," said Arthas.
"One trip, perhaps, but it only a matter of time before they catch on," said Kalec. "When that happens, they'll intercept us."
"I only need one trip. Most of my forces are remaining behind," said Arthas. "Taking them through Azjol Nerub would be far too difficult and would slow us down. I intend to make use of those forces I can gather beyond the mountains."
Kalecgos stared at him. "...Have you lost your mind?"
"Why do people keep asking that?" asked Arthas, not really to anyone in particular. "Do they think I'm qualified to give an answer."
"You're about to face the combined might of the Naga and the High Elves. And you mean to leave most of your forces behind," said Kalecgos. "They won't be any use here."
Arthas looked at him flatly. "They will be shoring up my current defenses instead of floundering around in the tunnels. If I wholly abandon this region, I'll lose it for good. When I get to Icecrown Glacier, I will make do with what forces remain in the region."
"Can you truly be that petty?" asked Kalecgos. "If Kael'thas becomes the next Lich King, it won't just be the end of the scourge, it could be a new dark age for all of Azeroth!"
"Yes, very convenient for you," said Arthas. "The scourge gives up its territory saving the world. Then the orcs and humans, having learned nothing, take everything that used to belong to us without a struggle. We're all dead, and none of you have to leave your comfortable, wrong beliefs.
"Less convenient for me, however.
"Perhaps you could force us to sign away our moral rights in exchange for transportation. It might make you sleep more easily."
"You did that when you decided to become undead," snapped Kalecgos. "Your 'subjects' are abominations of nature. It would be a mercy to let them be destroyed."
Arthas sighed. "...Tell your forces to stand by for their only run. We're leaving and soon."
"...Whatever you want," said Kalecgos.
It was time to brave the darkness and pray his subjects could hold out.
Author's Note:
I sincerely apologize for the delay. The Warcraft Reforged fiasco has done more than make me stop playing Warcraft III. It's damaged my ability and motivation to have anything to do with Blizzard in general. I can't even bring myself to open their games without a mental struggle anymore.
In the end, all that keeps me going is a desire to liberate Azeroth from them, so to speak.
On a separate note, I think I've found something I hate more than Kalecgos.
Writing Kalecgos.
Most Blizzard characters have some semblance of personality I can expand outward, but Kalec just... doesn't. There's nothing special about him. Nothing that he provides that couldn't have been done by any other Gary Sue.
He's just... slightly smug, and that's all.
So I'm only able to judge him purely on the basis of his actions.
So what are his actions?
Well, he cheated on his fiancee, Tyrygosa, with Anveena. He acted smug once or twice to Jorad. Then when Anveena died, he started picking fights with other young males. Then he got promoted to Dragon Aspect for letting the adventurers murder Malygos. At which point he promptly failed to stop Garrosh from getting WMD's and went crying to Jaina.
All culminating in him getting romantically involved with Jaina and talking her out of ending the war. Before dumping her immediately afterward like a one night stand.
So yeah. While Kalecgos' personality is bland, his actions are that of an ineffectual slimeball.
And now I'd like to put away the standard author's note and send a message to everyone living under the coronavirus:
Stay strong.
I realize that being trapped in quarantine is incredibly stressful. And I'm sure all of us want to get back to the way things were, but we have to stay where we are. It's the only way we'll be able to beat this disease.
I say this because I suspect that we are approaching a lull.
When people are forced into quarantine, there comes a period where the disease dies down a bit. Or, more likely, the disease appears to die down. The government may even encourage people to go out and spend money again to restart the economy.
DO. NOT. LISTEN.
You should remain in quarantine even if your government tells you it's all clear. Remember that the government is under pressure to reopen businesses. Many people in power would prefer to see a few thousand extra people die, then the stock market dip a percent. They will almost certainly lift restrictions far earlier than they should. This will, in turn, lead to a second wave that kills even more people.
If I'm wrong, you lose nothing. If I'm right, you may very well save your family from getting sick.
Remember that by observing quarantine, you are not just protecting yourself. You are also protecting everyone you come in contact with. Wash your hands, wear a mask, and take all precautions. If every single one of us does everything we can to stay safe, we will drastically shorten the lifespan of this virus.
Also, if you're religious, say a prayer for the people in the third world.
Much of the third has a much denser population. They also have far weaker health care and almost no means of detecting the virus at all. I suspect that even now, it has taken hold of large parts of the population. There do not have as good a diet, so their immune systems are weaker. Combined with other diseases, no means of isolating, the death toll will be far worse. And foreign aid will be nearly impossible in these circumstances.
No matter how bad we have it, they almost certainly have it far worse.
Just... keep it in mind, okay.
