Chapter 6 chapter Five

Two days after the first meeting, Lothar found himself standing in the throne room of Lordaeron with the rulers of those continents.Khadgar was also by his side, and Lothar was delighted with the lad's participation.Although Terenas was a friendly host and, like some kings, a very nice man, the young wizard Lothar knew from Azeroth.Although he is not a resident of the Stormwind Kingdom, it reminds Lothar of his hometown. Hometown, a place that no longer exists.Lothar knew that in many ways he had to admit it, but it still seemed unreal, and he still wanted to turn around and see Ryan laughing, or a pair of griffins flying in the sky, or It was the sound of his warriors fighting.But all is gone, his friends are dead and his home has fallen.He swore he would save his homeland from darkness, even if it cost him his life.

It looked like what he needed now was to keep his head down.Lothar has never had any patience with politics, and he's been amazed at what Ryan has done over the years, comforting one nobleman and then another, starting wars, settling disputes, things that don't help each other and must be avoided These questions are influenced by personal preference.Ryan had told him time and time again that it was just a game, a game of status, influence, and strategy.No one is really a winner, the strongest guy will always try to maintain his gains as long as possible. As far as Lothar is concerned, the rulers of these continents are very skilled in playing this game, and dealing with these issues with these people will give him a headache.

When the first day's lunch was over, they returned to the throne room for more discussion, and everyone seemed to agree that the Horde was coming, even the very smooth Perenolde.What needs to be dealt with now is how to solve this problem. He spent the rest of the day explaining to everyone that keeping the army together was the only way.Terenas immediately agreed.Fortunately Trollbane and Proudmoore quickly agreed, although it took some time to convince the latter.But Perenolde and Greyburn are more difficult.Lothar was not at all surprised by Perenold's reluctance. He was just like some guys in Stormwind before, tactful, malicious, and always liked to stay out of the crowd.Perhaps Perenolde was personally terrified of the war, and he implicated the subject, and the others were no doubt braver than he.However, Gray Mane's decision was an accident.The man's strong frame and the heavy armor on his body make it unmistakable that he is a warrior.He didn't say he didn't want to fight, but whenever the war came up he was quick to suggest something else, and Perenolde of course always insisted on investigating all possible suggestions in detail.It was only when Proudmoore and Trollbane accused Greyman of cowardice that the stout man suggested that a combined army was their only way of saving themselves.

The next day wasn't much different, and they were still talking about the war, but at least the conversation turned to logistics.How which armies will be assembled, where they will be stationed, and how they will be supplied - Lothar has been working on these issues over the years, but he's only dealing with the armies of one nation.Now they were talking about five kingdoms, not counting the survivors of Stormwind he might call, all kings with their own ideas and methods. The big question, of course, is who will be the commander who will rule this army. It seemed that all the kings felt that they themselves should lead the combined army.Terenas emphasized that Lordaeron is the largest and most armed nation and this time also everyone else he called.And Trollbane said that he had the most actual combat experience. At least Lothar seemed to believe these words of the rude mountain king.Proudmoore mentioned the strength of his navy, and ships were also a key point for transporting troops and supplies.Greybean is in the southernmost kingdom, which he thinks means he should rule over this army because his kingdom would be the first to be attacked if the Horde marched from land - although this is not true.Stromgarde is truly the nation at the forefront of the Horde's march, as the Horde passes through Dun Modan from Khaz Modan to the kingdom.Perenolde suggested that although his troops were not many, he should have wisdom and foresight as a commander, and he believed that he fully possessed these abilities.

Then there are two who are not kings but are still chiefs in their individual rights.Alonsus Faol, with his followers throughout all the kingdoms, and the Archmage Antonidas, though essentially he governed a city but the people he ruled had as much power as they could muster. The most powerful of the troops.Luckily, one is short and friendly and the other is tall and stern, these two have no interest in leading an army.And the two of them are always using their influence to remind the kings that the Horde doesn't care whether the Alliance's army is ready, they may come here to attack at any time, and they have always emphasized that if an army does not have a unique The leader of the army will be useless, no matter the size of the army.

Lothar viewed these discussions with a mixture of entertainment and respect, and he was often drawn into these debates by others involuntarily.Some people regard him as a person who is very familiar with orcs, and sometimes they want him to give some suggestions as a bystander, and sometimes they even cunningly suggest that his family was the earliest ruler of this continent, and he should Have the rights of the ancestors to make some decisions.Most of the time Lothar couldn't tell whether they were laughing at him or respecting him everywhere, but he knew very well that most kings wanted something from him.He prefers that these discussions can be concluded as soon as possible so that he can return to the refugees from the Stormwind Kingdom and try to gather a small force to join the combined army.

As he waited for King Terenas to organize this morning meeting, Lothar felt the kings' attention focused on him.Some, like Trollbane, are fairly obvious, while others, like Perenolde and Greybeard, are more covert.Lothar wasn't sure what was going to happen but he didn't like it. "We're all here now, aren't we?" Terenas said, though he could clearly determine that for himself.The king of Lordaeron was not forgetful. "Very well, then, have we all agreed that our troops will be called up to fight against the incoming Horde, have we all agreed on our plan of action?" All the rulers nodded, which made Lothar was surprised.They were still arguing when they gave up yesterday and went back to their respective rooms, when did they come to an agreement?And what is it really about?But the king's next words clearly answered his question, and Lothar was extremely shocked when he heard the content clearly. "Then, I declare the Alliance of Lordaeron! We shall fight together, as our ancestors did in Arathi." The others nodded and Terenas continued. "The only fit now, and to whom our commanders must obey, will be the heir of that ancestral line. We Kings of the Alliance hereby declare that Ser Anduin Lothar, General of Stormwind, shall be Our Supreme Commander!"

Lothar stared at Terenas, who was blinking at him. "This is the only option." The ruler of the Kingdom of Lordaeron explained quietly, his voice so soft that Lothar was sure that he was the only one who could hear these words. "All of them want to handle it themselves, and they're all very repulsed to see another king in their domain. You're not a king so they don't think you'll get anything out of it, but you're noble enough in blood that they don't think I was scorned by others." The king leaned forward a little. "I understand that I'm asking too much from you, and I apologize to you. But if it wasn't for this really affecting our survival, I wouldn't do this, and you came to warn us. Are you willing to accept this appointment?" Finally The voice of a word was very loud, Terenas' voice became very polite, the whole room was filled with silence, and everyone else was waiting for Lothar's answer.

It didn't take him long to think about it, the fact that he had no choice, and Terenas knew it.It was impossible for him to walk away from these things, at least not after going through them. "I accept the appointment," he replied. "I will lead the army of the Alliance to meet the Horde." "Very good." Terenas applauded. "All of us should now prepare our armies, equipment and supplies. I suggest that we report this to Lord Lothar again within a week, so that he can understand what kind of army he has on hand and begin to deploy his plans. .” The kings indicated their agreement with the proposal by murmuring or nodding.Each of them came to Lothar's side to congratulate Lothar and assure him that they would do their best to support this matter, although it seemed that Perenolde and Graybean were a little less sincere.Then the kings left, leaving only four people in the room.Lothar glanced at Khadgar, who was staring at him and smiling.

"Did you get away with it?" said the young and old mage shaking his head. "They dragged you into it, crafty bastards! I think they wouldn't hesitate to sell their children for an acre of land for their kingdom! I really appreciate the way they put you in charge of it all. But that’s what you do when you’re supremely powerful—you don’t think about what other people think, or even listen to what they have to say.” "Well cough!" No matter what the young wizard wanted to say, the cough interrupted his speech, and when he looked in the direction from which the voice came from, a look of shame suddenly appeared on his face. "Not all rulers are corrupt and self-absorbed, young man," Archbishop Faol pointed out, a sternness beneath his usual smile. "Those are the people we are called to serve, as your friend once did."

"...Of course, Father. Please forgive me. I didn't mean to say... I just wanted to say those ordinary rulers...Of course you..." This was the first time Lothar saw the talkative Khadgar like this Organized the language in a panic.He couldn't help laughing at the predicament his young companion was in now.Faol also smiled, a kinder smile that allowed Khadgar to calm down more quickly. "Enough, lad," Faol said finally, raising a hand. "I don't blame you for your rudeness. Sir Lothar clearly fell into this neat trap. I must apologize, but that is the only thing I can do about this decision. You are a very Good man, sir. And I believe you are the best of our many candidates for Union Commander. Personally, I am very satisfied to hear that you will lead our army and lead us into battle. " "Thank you very much, Father." Lothar is not a pious person, but he has always respected the people of the Bright Cathedral.Hearing the archbishop praise him so much made Lothar feel very uncomfortable but very proud. "Both of you will learn from this conflict," Faol warned, his voice suddenly deepening as if he were reading from a height. "You will be pushed to your limits, not only in terms of talent, but also in terms of your courage and determination. I believe you are all capable of passing these challenges, but, for the ultimate victory, I pray The Holy Light gives you strength and purity, and you will find in it the joy and unity you need to survive." He made a gesture of blessing, and Lothar felt that he saw a vague crimson light around his arm, The light extended toward Khadgar and himself.He suddenly felt a sense of peace and tranquility, and an indescribable sense of happiness filled his body. "Now, let's talk about something else." Faol suddenly became a mortal again, a wise old man. "First of all, can you tell me about Northshire, especially the abbey there. How are they?" "I'm sorry Father but I think..." Lothar replied. "The monastery has been destroyed, torn to shreds by the Horde. A few monks have survived, and they are now in Southshore with our refugees. As for the others..." He shook his head. "I see." Faol turned pale, but remained calm. "I will pray for them." He became very quiet, and it was obvious that he was contemplating something, while Lothar and Khadgar waited respectfully.After a moment the archbishop looked up at them, with a new determination in his eyes. "I think you'll need some adjutants, sir," he announced. "I think it would be best if some of these people were not from the kingdom but from the church. I have some thoughts in my mind now. I think this new decision will bring a lot of help to the league. I need some time to find out Think about specific issues, and then choose the right candidate. Can you meet me in the main courtyard after lunch time in 4 days' time?" He nodded politely, then turned and walked away with steady and unflustered steps up. Now there is one left.Antonidas had been watching them without saying a word, and now the old archmage came towards them. "The strength and wisdom of the Kirin Tor are at your disposal, sir," he said to Lothar. "I think you are familiar with our fellow wizards in the Stormwind Kingdom, so you should also have an idea of ​​our abilities. I will arrange for one of us to assist you and maintain contact between us." A powerful mage stopped suddenly, and he glanced at Lothar with eyes that were so fast that Lothar almost didn't notice, Lothar couldn't help himself from laughing. "I would like Khadgar to fill that role, sir," Lothar began, catching a momentary smile on the archmage's lips. "He is a trustworthy companion, and has faced the orcs with me many times." "Of course." Antonidas turned to the young man.Then, surprisingly, he put a hand under Khadgar's chin, and lifted his head slightly so that he could take a good look at his face. "You have indeed experienced a lot." The archmage said softly, and Lothar saw sympathy and sadness in the old man's eyes. "Your experience has imprinted itself on you far more than what you appear on the outside." Khadgar turned his head slightly. "I do what I'm supposed to do," he whispered.He absently rubbed his hand over the chin that Antonidas had touched just now, and Khadgar was annoyed at the touch of the chin that was beginning to grow a fluffy white beard. Antonidas frowned. "That's what we have to do." He sighed, as if some heavy burden was weighing on his mind, and soon, he returned to the topic at hand. "You need to keep us abreast of the situation on the battlefield, and keep us informed of Sir Lothar's latest request. At the same time, you will do your best to complete other issues. I believe these are all your abilities are capable of." Card Add a nod. "Very good. I hope to meet you in Dalaran as soon as possible. We need to discuss some other issues so that we can better help the Alliance." The gem on the head of the archmage's staff suddenly issued A blinding light danced in front of his eyes, at the top of his hat.Antonidas then appeared to blur and disappear.He left here in an instant. "He wants to know about Medivh," Khadgar said suddenly, shortly after the archmage disappeared. "Of course." Lothar turned around and led the young man out of the throne room. He walked to the rest of the palace, and then he started towards the path through the restaurant. "What should I tell them?" The young wizard followed closely. "Tell them the truth," Lothar replied.He shrugged his shoulders trying to appear relaxed, but in fact he was very shaken inside. "They need to know what the hell is going on." Khadgar nodded, though reluctantly. "I'll tell them," he said finally. "But those can wait until after lunch," he said with a smile.If you ignore the hair and wrinkles, it's a smile that shows his true age. "Even the tribe can't keep me from eating right now." Lothar laughed. "Let's hope that doesn't happen." A few days later, Lothar and Khadgar returned to the main courtyard.They are already full and waiting for the arrival of Archbishop Faol.He appeared a few minutes later, and he walked over very calmly. "Thank you very much for accommodating an old man like me," said the archbishop as he approached them. "I won't keep you too long, but I think what I'm doing will help you and the league a lot. But first," he announced. "I want to tell you, Mr. Lothar. The church has promised to help the Kingdom of Stormwind. When this turmoil is over, we will try our best to raise funds to help you rebuild your kingdom." Lothar smiled, the first real smile Khadgar had seen on Lothar's face since the fall of Stormwind. "Thank you, Father," he said, his voice hoarse but full of gratitude. "It's really been a huge help for me, and for Prince Varian as well." Faol nodded. "The Light will once again fill your homeland," he assured gently.Then he started talking about something else. "During our last conversation," Faol said, pacing in front of them. "You told me about the destruction of Northshire Abbey. I was devastated and wanted to find out how the remaining monks could survive the sudden outbreak of war. It is obvious that even for a strong man like you Orcs are a huge threat to soldiers too—so, how is a pure priest supposed to protect himself? Let alone his congregation." He smiled, a genuinely happy smile. "When I was thinking hard about these issues, an idea popped into my mind, as if the Holy Light told me. There is a way to ensure that those warriors can fight with the Holy Light, and at the same time have the power of the Holy Light. gifts and their own fighting skills, and still have the etiquette taught by the church." "So you found a way?" Lothar asked. "Yes." Faol agreed. "I will start a new branch of the church, the paladins. I have selected the first candidates for this idea. Some of them were knights and some of them were priests before this. I chose these people because of their deep faith And their own fighting skills. They will not only be trained to fight, but also to receive training in prayer and healing. These brave warriors will have both military and spiritual abilities, especially to use the power of the Holy Light to bless themselves and others. He turned and waved, and four men emerged from a nearby corridor, walking towards Faol refreshed.The shining armor they wear, the shields in their hands, and the top of their helmets all have the emblem of the church logo.All carried a sword, and Lothar could tell from the way they walked that they knew how to use these things.But those armors and weapons are new, without the slightest stain.They had knowledge and training, but Lothar wondered if any of these men had ever fought in a real battle.These are all experiences that a fighter must have, even if he only faced human enemies, but those former priests seem to only have the experience of practicing boxing with their own companions.But now they must immediately go to the forefront against the orcs. "Allow me to introduce Uther, Saidan Dathrohan, Tirion Fordring, and Turalyon." Faol smiled like a proud father. "They will all become members of the Knights of the Silver Hand." He also introduced Lothar and Khadgar. "This is Ser Anduin Lothar, General of Stormwind and Commander of the Alliance. And this is his colleague, Wizard Khadgar of Dalaran." Faol said with a smile. "I'll leave the six of you alone to talk." And he did, leaving Lothar and Khadgar surrounded by these candidates for the Paladin.Some of them, like the young man Turalyon, looked cowering.Others, like Uther and Tirion, appear relaxed. While Lothar was still thinking about what to say to them, Uther broke the silence. "My lord, the archbishop has told us of this coming battle and of the approach of the Horde. We will fight at your command for the sake of the people. You can command us when you need to, and we will utterly defeat our enemies and drive them out of the Here, let the Holy Light protect this land." He was a tall man with a resolute expression, with sea-blue eyes.Lothar could feel his piety from this man, very similar to Faol himself but lacking the enthusiasm of the archbishop. "You were once a knight?" he asked "Yes, my lord," the Paladin candidate replied. "But long ago, when I was young, I was a follower of the church, a devout believer. When I first met the archbishop, he was just Bishop Faol, and he was very kind to me. Spiritual guide. It was an honor when he told me of his new plan and made me a part of it." Uther's jaw clenched. "For the coming of these evil creatures, I know that we must accept the blessing of the Holy Light to defeat them, so as to protect our land, our homeland, and our people." Lothar nodded, he thought he had understood the answer to this person's belief, or part of the answer.He didn't doubt that Uther would be a formidable force on the battlefield.But something about this man made him a little discouraged.He suspected that Uther cared too much about glory and faith to refuse to use less noble methods to win, which was not a good situation.Lothar himself knew from those painful experiences with the orcs that glory was far from enough.If you want to survive the battle with the Horde, you must use all possible methods. He and Khadgar spent the next hour or so talking to the four candidates for the Paladin, and Lothar was very happy to see his young friend testing them too.As the holy warriors left for afternoon prayers, Lothar turned to face the old-looking wizard. "So." he asked. "What do you think of them?" Khadgar frowned. "I suspect they will be of limited use to us," he said after a while "Oh why?" "They didn't have enough time to prepare," the wizard explained. "We expect the Horde to be in Lordaeron in a matter of weeks or less. And none of them have experienced war - as paladins. Of course, I don't doubt they will be able to fight, but We have plenty of fighters. If the archbishop expects them to perform a miracle, I fear he may be disappointed." Lothar nodded. "I agree," he admitted. "But Faol trusts them, and maybe we must too." He laughed suddenly. "We assume that they are ready, what do you think of them." "Uther will be very dangerous to the Horde, no doubt about it," Khadgar replied. "However, I don't think he can lead anyone other than paladins. His piety is too firm, and many soldiers may not be able to bear it." Lothar nodded to his companion to continue. "Saidan and Tirion are more or less the same. Saidan is first and foremost a knight, and Tirion is a fighter, but they also have faith. This may make them hesitate to implement some schemes." Lothar said with a smile. "What about Turalyon?" "This is the least religious of them all, but also the strongest in my eyes." Khadgar admitted with a smile. "He was trained to be a clergyman and a faithful follower of the church, but not with the blazing zeal of others. And he had more wit." "I agree very much." This young man also made a deep impression on Lothar.Turalyon was slow to speak at first, and it took them a while to understand why.He heard about Lothar and his deeds in the Stormwind Kingdom, and he seemed to be in awe of him. Although this is not the first time Lothar has encountered this situation, he still feels very uncomfortable-many young people in his hometown He also admires him very much, and asks him to train them or make them his bodyguards.But after passing that initial adoration, Turalyon proved himself to have a quick mind and a keen sense, even surpassing his other colleagues.Lothar immediately took a liking to him, and Khadgar felt the same, confirming his belief. "I'll talk to Faol," Lothar said finally. "The value of paladins is unquestionable. I will bring Uther as our link with the church." Something is happening to him. "I will also recommend another candidate," he said. "Gavinrad, he's one of my knights in Azeroth, very loyal to us, and a nice guy. I think he might make a good paladin," he said with a smile. "But Turalyon, I will make him one of my lieutenants." Khadgar nodded. "I have to say it's a good choice." He shook his head. "Then let's hope the Horde gives us plenty of time to prepare them and the rest of the army." "We will prepare as much as possible." Lothar said absently.He was already thinking about how to place the troops the kings would provide. "We're going to face them when we have to, that's the only thing we can do."