Although Northrend was known as a land of bitter cold, expeditions from every nation had ventured onto this largely undeveloped continent.
The royal houses' geographical records of Northrend's northern lands might differ, but they at least had a systematic understanding of Northrend.
Borean Tundra, Stormheim, Grizzly Hills, and the rainforest basin north of the tundra were distinct regions with varied landscapes and climates. One thing, however, was certain: the local inhabitants had not exploited their resources.
Without question, Northrend was Arthas's greatest bargaining chip. He intended not only to eradicate the Scourge's forces there and establish his authority, but also to keep control of all Northrend's northern lands firmly in his own hands.
Having learned his lesson from being ill-prepared last time, Arthas had done his homework. He knew perfectly well that Lordaeron's industrial sector was not in royal hands, and that both great trading families were treacherous ingrates.
To make a comeback and contend with Kul Tiras, he would have to start from scratch.
The foundation for that fresh start was the vast continent of Northrend.
Arthas had taken the lead in developing Borean Tundra, and the Alliance's other nations had not remained idle. Once their armies established camps, they began gathering stone along the coast to build castles.
With a new territory like Northrend, there was no time to wait. Everyone had to shamelessly stake a claim so they would have a foothold in the future and a share of the spoils.
Territorial disputes ultimately came down to strength, but they at least needed to stake out a spot. Otherwise, they would not even have a chance to claim the moral high ground later.
Arthas looked at the foundations laid by Gilneas and Stormwind City and secretly found them amusing.
Such tiny plots were not even half the