"Should we leave some people here to stand guard?" Thrall said, standing beside Khadgar. The assault on the Dark Portal had gone smoothly, and they had already captured the forward positions.
Part of the vanguard was locked in a melee with Iron Horde Orcs before the Dark Portal, the two sides tangled together.
Khadgar considered Thrall's suggestion. When Turalyon had led his army through the Dark Portal, he had left some soldiers behind to guard this valley entrance and prevent the Orcs from attacking from the rear. But this time was different. They would have a hard time returning alive, and even if they did return, it certainly would not be through the Dark Portal. In truth, everyone understood that once they crossed to the other side, they would be cutting off their own retreat.
"No. There's no need." His voice was firm and cold.
The shaman fell silent. Khadgar knew that no one truly wanted to pass through the Dark Portal—though he had to admit that no one wanted to die either.
"All right," Thrall said. "At least today, we have a chance to die on the battlefield." He looked again at the vanguard soldiers fighting below. Some had already fallen, while others had been wounded. "These Horde warriors volunteered to join the vanguard. They are all heroes."
"The Alliance is the same," Malkorath added. "Our warriors come from all across Azeroth."
Khadgar had said the same thing to Vol'jin and Varian: this was a voluntary expedition. Do not send regular troops, and do not force any soldier who did not wish to cross into another world. Clearly, both leaders had agreed to his request, and the result brought him immense relief.
The Archmage stared intently at the Dark Portal. "Their numbers are dwindling, though not by much. This