Eve of War

The plan was in motion.

The Crusaders' vanguard had already crossed Felstone Farm. They planned to pass through Andorhal before launching an assault on Strahnbrad. Andorhal had originally been occupied by the Blood Elves, but the troops stationed there had been withdrawn not long ago because Quel'Thalas was concentrating its forces.

Nathanos studied the map. Rather than sweeping south through Silverpine Forest to clear out Forsaken strongholds, the Crusaders had set out from east of Lordaeron and chosen to attack Strahnbrad, the crucial city at the doorstep of the Snow Mountain Kingdom. Their aim was to seize Alterac, the Forsaken's political center in the Eastern Kingdoms, in one stroke.

A decisive war like this was exactly what Nathanos wanted. It would save him a great deal of time.

The road from the Western Plaguelands to Strahnbrad was not only narrow, but flanked by mountains on one side and a low valley on the other. Once the Crusaders entered it, they would have no chance to change formation or retreat.

"How are our preparations?"

"Following your orders, all troops in Strahnbrad have been concealed. The moment the Crusaders enter the town, we'll cut off their retreat," Prefist said.

Orisus added, "Sky-Coverer has been deployed atop Alterac's walls. With our bow and arrow, they can forget about entering the city."

The Witherer nodded. Once the Crusaders entered Strahnbrad and realized they had fallen into a trap, their only option would be to retreat north toward Lordamere Lake.

"Remind the soldiers on Fenris Isle again. No matter what, they are to hold the lakeside defenses. Not a single Crusader soldier is allowed to break through." Orisus nodded. He would handle that task himself.

Nathanos then said to Prefist, "The defenses from the Western Plaguelands to Strahnbrad must gradually grow stronger. The Crusaders need