Northrend

Full History

The old kingdoms of the Eastern Kingdoms knew little of the forces gathering in Northrend when Kil'jaeden transformed Ner'zhul into the Lich King. Imprisoned within the Frozen Throne at Icecrown, Ner'zhul extended his control over the dead and began building the Scourge. The campaign also brought war against the nerubians of Azjol-Nerub, whose underground kingdom resisted the spread of undeath.

Prince Arthas Menethil later sailed north in pursuit of Mal'Ganis. The prince believed that killing the dreadlord would save Lordaeron from the plague. His pursuit consumed his judgment. When he learned that his father had ordered the expedition home, he arranged for the ships to be destroyed so his soldiers could not retreat. Arthas then sought the runeblade Frostmourne, ignoring warnings about its curse. He took it, lost his former loyalty and returned to Lordaeron as a death knight.

Northrend drew him back during the events that followed the Burning Legion's defeat at Hyjal. Illidan Stormrage was attacking the Frozen Throne, weakening the Lich King's power. Arthas traveled to the northern coast and joined forces with Anub'arak, the fallen nerubian king serving the Scourge. Their journey through Azjol-Nerub offered a dangerous passage toward Icecrown while hostile armies moved to stop them.

At Icecrown, Arthas defeated Illidan and climbed to the Frozen Throne. He shattered the prison and claimed the helm, merging his destiny with that of Ner'zhul. The continent that had first lured a prince to his ruin became the seat of the ruler he had chosen to become.