"I heard on the way here that several SI:7 died. Is that true?"
"Yes, they are all Shaw's capable subordinates. Defias left many assassins hidden in the city, and all of their assassination attempts were successful, causing panic within the Military Intelligence Office and even internal strife, almost bringing it to the brink of collapse."
It seems that without Shaw, SI:7 is no match for Defias. The King of Thieves is determined to completely destroy his old nemesis.
The old marshal was planning to continue cooperating with the Military Intelligence Office to investigate and seize more corrupt nobles, and of course did not want to see them collapse.
"I tried my best to persuade them, but I couldn't make any guarantees."
The old marshal sighed deeply. He was under considerable pressure—the complete annihilation of the House of Nobles had created a huge power vacuum, and everyone, good or bad, wanted a piece of the pie.
His regime was not legitimate; he had not yet been formally reinstated, but was simply pushed into power because there was no one else in the city. His situation was awkward.
After Varian returned, he should have immediately reorganized the parliament and cabinet, but his behavior was unpredictable; he hid in the palace and ignored everything.
Without the king's signature, official documents, and the Royal Seal, many instructions and arrangements lacked sufficient validity and could only be considered temporary appointments by the old marshal, failing to reassure the people.
Even within the City Guard, some of Jonathan's old men were already showing signs of disobedience.
With the return of the various troops, the military nobles and lords who had escaped the calamity will gather in the city, where a power struggle is inevitable.
The old marshal was not a power-hungry man, but he had been working tirelessly these past few days to bring the city to a good order and did not want any more bloodshed due to internal strife.
Therefore, bringing in His Majesty the King would be the best solution to this problem, and he personally hoped that the King could recover and return to power as soon as possible.
Unas had his own deductions about Varian's state—the old marshal didn't know that this Varian wasn't the normal Varian, but rather a split, docile personality.
To put it nicely, it's called being docile; to put it bluntly, it's being weak.
A weak man, kidnapped by the Naga for months, suffering from poor food and clothing, living in constant fear, returned to find himself surrounded by strangers—the old marshal had not been close to the king either.
And then there were all sorts of terrible news: the entire House of Nobles was wiped out, and the Regent, whom he regarded as a brother, and the prince, whom he cherished dearly, were most likely dead.
It's perfectly normal for people to develop some mental health issues after being hit by multiple blows, but Varian's case suggests a more severe form of autism.
But as the king of Stormwind City, his past prestige remained, and no one dared to disobey him, allowing him to hide in his room and escape reality.
Once you spend enough time with him, you'll find that there's nothing to be afraid of. Weak autistic individuals find it difficult to resist the demands of a powerful person.
Unas couldn't cure autism, but solving the old marshal's problem didn't require it. He said directly, "Now is not the time to be timid. You don't need to worry about whether King Varian agrees or not. You can just barge into the palace to see him. How can a ruler of a country neglect his own country?"
"How can this be allowed?!" Forcibly breaking into the Forbidden Palace would be tantamount to treason. Although he controlled most of the fortress's guards, the old marshal had never considered taking this step.
"I haven't finished yet. If he's unwilling to step forward and take charge, then have him sign a letter of appointment appointing you as consul, with full authority over all national affairs."
"Stop talking, Knight Unas," the old marshal said solemnly, "This is treason, and I cannot force His Majesty to give any orders!"
Unas shrugged. "Suit yourself. I'm just suggesting it; it's the only way right now. If we drag this out any longer, things will get complicated when those generals return."
The Royal Fleet's flagship will arrive at the port in a few days. On the army side, several commanders of the Seventh Legion are also on their way. These powerful figures in the army may not necessarily obey the old marshal's leadership after they return.
Windsor sighed deeply; his loyalty to the royal family was unwavering, and he would never do anything treasonous.
"There is one more thing. Lady Jaina of Theramore has sent a letter, intending to come in person to offer her condolences. She is a longtime friend of the King, and perhaps she can persuade His Majesty."
It was Jaina who invited Varian to Theramore, which gave the Black Dragon Princess the opportunity to ambush and kidnap him. It can be said that the mistress of Theramore bears some responsibility for Varian's disappearance, so it is only natural that she came to offer her condolences.
This woman is famous in the game. In the future, Jaina is transformed from the Holy Mother of Peace into an extreme hawk, and is contemptuously called "Jaina the Bitch" by players. But now she should still be a peace ambassador with the well-being of all people in mind - even to the point of colluding with the enemy in order to quell the war between Theramore and the Orcs, which led to the death of her own father. This is also the point that is most criticized about her.
There was a moment of silence between them. Unas said, "If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave."
The group walked out of the fortress gate, and Russell disappeared into the crowd to contact Defias's spies.
Unas and Kressa escorted Master Omar into the large carriage arranged by the Marshal, and together they headed to the Old Town —where the others were placed in temporary accommodations.
This is a large, somewhat empty aristocratic mansion. Apart from the necessary furniture, all other decorations have been removed. However, the remaining clues reveal the former owner's wealth and make it clear that this is a noble residence that has just been raided.
Only Natasha and Pafeman remained. Upon inquiry, they learned that most of the refugees who had returned by boat had been settled, and the eight hundred Stormwind army had been incorporated into the City Guard by the old marshal, including Luther and Hart, who were now busy with their new jobs.
Nightmoon, Huoye, and Perella were bored in the house, so they went to visit a small group of Elves in the city.
After settling Master Omar in, Kressa eagerly asked, "Where is Miss Luisa?"
Natasha looked curiously at the masked man whose build was exactly like Paladin, and replied, "I'm helping to treat the wounded in the Church District."
After the war, the number of wounded and sick people increased dramatically. The Priests set up several medical tents next to the Cathedral, but they were short-handed. When Luisa heard about this, she volunteered.
"I want to go see." As Kressa 'Luisa guardian Heroic Spirit, protecting the princess is Claire's duty.
"Go ahead, but don't show your face. Your current appearance could easily cause misunderstandings." Unas waved his hand, comfortably reclining in his chair, not wanting to move at all.
Watching the man's departing figure, Natasha asked, "Who is he?"
"Let's talk when everyone's here. Anyway, she's one of us." The Paladin lazily closed his eyes to rest.
Having rid himself of the possessing demon, Unas felt as if a heavy shackle had been removed, and he was completely at ease. Even the reduction in his lifespan did not discourage him.
During his few days at sea, he had come to a realization: even if Russell's prediction was true and he only had five years left, he was not afraid.
The threat of death made him realize a truth: whether it's five years, fifty years, or five hundred years, living in a daze is meaningless. Seizing the moment, leaving no regrets, and doing what you want to do to the fullest is the true meaning of life.
He was just an ordinary person, but fate brought him into this extraordinary world. Wouldn't it be a waste of this good fortune if he didn't live a life of great achievement?
"Someone has broken into the west wall!" Pafeman, who had been silent all along, suddenly shouted a warning, breaking the otherwise peaceful afternoon.
The group immediately rushed outside and saw the tall, slender man standing in the center of the courtyard. After half a month, the King of Thieves' eyes shone brightly, clearly having recovered to his peak condition.
"Russell's message hasn't arrived yet, but you've already gotten there. You truly are elusive."
"Hmph, I got the news the moment you landed on the Docks," VanCleef said arrogantly. "If I wanted to, nothing in Stormwind City could escape my notice."
It seems that Defias did indeed leave behind some assassins and a supporting intelligence force when she withdrew.
"Please."
Unas invited the guests inside and ordered Natasha and Pafeman to stand guard outside.
"Is there any news about the Little Prince?" Unas couldn't help but ask as soon as he sat down.
He might be in the hands of the Blackrock Orcs.
"Oh? Maybe?" Unas rubbed his chin. The Burning Steppes were the territory of the Old Horde, so it wasn't surprising that they had been captured by the Blackrock Orcs.
VanCleef gave a dismissive snort and did not reply.
"How do you intend to rescue His Highness?"
"Ha! Why would I save him?"
"You'll be free in exchange. Don't forget, according to the agreement, you're still a hostage."
"Okay, from now on I'll follow you around as your hostage."
Chiluo's threat sent chills down Unas's spine. Being entangled with this guy meant he had to be constantly on guard against a silent assassination attempt, and he probably wouldn't be able to sleep peacefully.
"Since you can't get the Little Prince back, you're useless as a hostage. I can kill you right now!" Unas's words were equally threatening; he could not show weakness in front of a jackal.
You can give it a try!
The two were on the verge of exchanging blows. In this confined indoor space, with two helpers outside the door, Ula was confident he could take down his opponent in one fell swoop.
VanCleef was equally confident. Although he had witnessed the battle between the Paladin and the Black Dragon and knew that the opponent was powerful, at such close range, he was the king of assassins.
Neither was willing to back down, but they hesitated to actually fight, resulting in a brief stalemate. Fortunately, a knock came at the door, and Natasha's voice announced, "Mr. Russell has arrived."
"Let him in," they both said simultaneously, then exchanged a disdainful glance.
Russell sensed something was amiss as soon as he entered, but the information he had just received was extremely urgent. He quickly said, "There's new information! The Lady of Theramore is sending out letters everywhere, inviting representatives from various countries to gather in Stormwind City. It's very likely a summit to reorganize the Alliance!"
"Crack!" VanCleef crushed the armrest of a chair; the news was nothing short of devastating for him.
After the Third World War, the Alliance disintegrated and became a mere shell of its former self. Human nations declined in every way, and the upper echelons of Stormwind City were secretly controlled by the Black Dragon, indulging in extravagance and corruption, which allowed Defias to seize the opportunity to grow and expand.
The timing of this summit is very delicate, coming right after Defias' attack on Stormwind City. If the nations can truly unite and direct their attacks at Defias, VanCleef's demise will not be far off.
How many people responded to her?
"It is said that a Night Elf Priestess of the Moon has arrived in Theramore. The attitudes of Dalaran, Kul Tiras, and Gilneas are currently unclear, but Ironforge will definitely participate. The Gnomes and Dwarves of Gnomeregan have always stood together and will not be absent either."
"The Priestess of the Moon? How is that possible?" VanCleef exclaimed in surprise. "Who is she?"
The Night Elf Priestess of the Moon are the most prominent figures in the Order of the Moon, few in number and all renowned, but they are not interested in the conflicts between the various nations within the Alliance, focusing only on their own safety and the safety of the world.
Russell said, "It's not certain yet."
Of the seven human kingdoms, Lordaeron, Alterac, and Stromgarde in the north were all destroyed in the Scourge War, leaving only a few remnants struggling to survive.
Gilneas had long since withdrawn from the Alliance, erecting high walls to keep out all enemies and friends, thus escaping the Third World War.
Since the death of its king, the kingdom of Kul Tiras has been divided among several successors, with only Jaina remaining devoted to the Alliance. The people of Theramore, the city-state she founded, are mostly from the three destroyed kingdoms and are naturally willing to fight for the Alliance.
The reconstruction of Dalaran has just begun and remains to be seen.
Of the seven kingdoms, only Stormwind City has preserved its strength relatively well. Now that the Black Dragon has been defeated, as long as Stormwind City's war potential can be fully developed, rebuilding the Alliance army is not a dream.
Unas rested his chin on his hand, observing the King of Thieves's furrowed brows. His eyes darted around, and he said, "If the Alliance's new army is established, they'll definitely find an easy target to sacrifice as a trial run. I think Defias would be perfect."
"So this can't go on!" VanCleef's eyes Blink murderous intent, as if he was already planning a terrorist attack.
"You want to assassinate the leaders from various countries?" Unas sneered. Putting aside the feasibility, even if the assassination were successful, it would thoroughly enrage all parties, which would be tantamount to walking into the line of fire.
Russell urged, "Chief, this matter requires careful consideration."
VanCleef snorted and remained silent.
Unas continued, "Westfall was originally an important Granary for Stormwind City, but you have turned it upside down, and we can't harvest a single grain. I think it's time to reclaim it. We should also thank the Noble Council, which helped Stormwind City get rid of such a large number of leeches that were sucking blood from our heads. In the future, Stormwind City's rise will also have your contribution."
VanCleef knew the Paladin was deliberately provoking him and didn't bother to refute him.
Russell said, "The lords of the Westfall levy exorbitant taxes, and many peasants Defias the Defias voluntarily because they couldn't survive. How can you blame us entirely?"
This statement is true to some extent, but it shouldn't be taken at face value. Given VanCleef's methods, he must have used various forms of coercion and enticement to turn most law-abiding citizens into bandits.
"It's really not your fault. Now the lords of Westfall are either dead or have fled, and those who hid in Stormwind City have been slaughtered by you. Varian can just use the king's name to reclaim the lands, and he might even be grateful to you."
"It won't be so easy for him to take it back; Defias' power should not be underestimated!"
"When the Alliance's army arrives, what will you use to resist?"
VanCleef and Russell fell silent. They couldn't possibly stop the combined forces of humans, Dwarves, Gnomes, and Night Elves. Westfall was Defias' stronghold; if it were lost, VanCleef would have no chance of turning the tide.
Seeing the two men's pale faces, Unas chuckled inwardly. He knew things wouldn't be so simple when he heard that the Priestess of the Moon had been mobilized; the Night Elves wouldn't go to war over an internal rebellion in the human kingdom.
He made a rough guess: according to the current year, this is precisely when the insect swarms in the southern desert of Kalimdor begin to stir.
Jaina convened this meeting likely at the request of the Night Elves to discuss the fight against the Zerg in Silithus, and not specifically to target Defias.
With a few words of guidance, he had frightened the two men considerably. Feeling that was enough, he coughed lightly and said, "The Alliance led by Stormwind City will inevitably rise; this is the future trend. If you continue to fight to the death in Westfall, destruction is imminent. But I can show you a clear path—come north with me!"
"North?"
"Yes, there are vast tracts of unclaimed land on the Lordaeron. I know your dream, Master. As long as we unite to eliminate the Undead, you are free to establish your own country there."
Russell said, "Sir Knight, you are underestimating the situation. As far as I know, the Undead have a tremendous force in the north, and the remaining forces of Lordaeron will not recognize Defias. We will face a double attack from Undead and humans. Establishing a nation is just a joke."
"Your concerns are none of a problem. The Forsaken and the Scourge can be defeated one by one. I already have a complete plan," Unas smiled confidently. "As for the remaining human forces, there's even less to worry about. Once I acknowledge you, they will have no choice but to acknowledge you as well!"
"What makes you think you can make them submit?" Russell asked suspiciously. "Who exactly are you?"
You'll find out soon enough.
VanCleef's eyes Blink, clearly impressed by the Paladin's confident words. After a long pause, he said, "I have only one question: what good have you done for yourself?"
"Benefits? Haha!" Unas laughed three times. "To destroy the Undead and reclaim Lordaeron —that's my dream now!"
Since his birth into this world, he has been like a wild horse, driven around by the problem of survival, without having time to think about what he truly wants.
Now, if he cannot find a way to prolong his life, he may die in five years. Unas has made up his mind that rather than searching for a way to prolong his life in fear, he should fight hard and accomplish what he wants to do.
Those who helped him— Gordon, Tyrosus, Erigor, Natasha, and others—unwaveringly chose to stay in that ravaged country and fight to save their homeland in the face of crisis.
Unas himself is always filled with regret whenever he thinks about the historical tragedy of that human kingdom and those vivid characters.
Now that he has grown to this point, and now that he has the opportunity to make up for this regret, why not do it?
Whether for himself, for his friends, or for his loved ones, he should shoulder this responsibility and fulfill the wish that has remained unfulfilled throughout the history he knows.
When a person possesses lofty ideals, he radiates a different kind of brilliance. VanCleef looked at the Paladin and seemed to see his past self, who was so similar to him.
His original ideal was to rebuild Stormwind City, but due to the injustices of the world, hatred led him to the completely opposite side.
"I will consider your offer, Paladin, but you must show me more sincerity."
"Rest assured, Your Excellency, I never disappoint."
After seeing the two off, Unas immediately asked Natasha to prepare paper and pen, "Quickly write me two letters."
He gave one letter to Magni and one to Rendaen, hoping that the two Dwarf Kings could reconcile their relationship and come to Stormwind City to attend the summit together.
For Rendaen, this was a golden opportunity. If Shadowforge City could join the Alliance, his legitimate rule would be recognized by all nations, making his newly acquired Dark Iron throne even more secure.
The Alliance is also in dire need of fresh blood like the Dark Iron Dwarves. Moreover, having one more ally and one less enemy is a sure-fire deal, and the Alliance leaders are unlikely to turn away Rendaen.
"These two letters must be delivered to the recipients as soon as possible, Natasha. Take care of it immediately."
"Don't worry, Knight lady." Natasha nodded and strode out the door. She needed to ask if there were any Gryphon or Hippogryph messengers; if not, there was always the Dwarf Subway.
Unas pondered for a while inside the house, then instructed Pafeman to take good care of Master Omar before riding out and heading straight for the Church District.
Unas had thought he had plenty of time to leisurely wait for Luisa to return before talking to her, but the news Russell brought back immediately made Unas feel a sense of urgency—he had to help the old marshal take control of Stormwind City as soon as possible, lest things get complicated.
The old marshal's problem was that he did not have Varian's formal authorization, and he was unwilling to force him to resign. Therefore, Luisa became a very good entry point.
Varian had spent some time in exile in Lordaeron during his youth and was taken care of by the House of Menethil. He and Luisa should be old acquaintances. Now that she has revealed her identity as a princess, Varian has no reason not to see her.
If Varian really does disappear, it means his autism has become so severe that it's incurable, so there's even less reason to fear him.
The once quiet church garden was now bustling with noise, and the groans of the sick rose and fell from the white makeshift medical tents.
Unas quickly found Kressa among the tents—the two seemed to have a telepathic connection, likely due to their shared physical form.
"Where is he?" the Paladin asked, leaning closer.
"It's inside." Kressa pointed to a small Tent beside her.
Unas lifted the curtain and entered, a sharp gaze piercing straight at him—it was Uncle Gail, the royal guard who was always by Luisa's side.
After seeing the person's face clearly, Gail relaxed his guard, nodded to Unas, and reached out to remind the mistress who was focused on treating the wounded.
Unas shook his head, signaling not to disturb the treatment. Luisa's hands glowed white as she focused intently on casting Holy Light Healing spell. The hazy light bathed her back in a divine radiance, making her look incredibly beautiful.
Gail crept closer and winked at the Tent entrance, saying, "It seems like we're being watched."
"Don't be afraid, they're on our side."
Gail probably considered Kressa an enemy, Unas gave him a reassuring look and said, "Later, you and he carry this wounded man out. Luisa and I have important matters to discuss."
The two's hushed conversation disturbed the healer. She turned around, and upon seeing the Paladin, the reproach on her face instantly turned to surprise and delight. Forgetting to maintain her Holy Light, she excitedly stood up and exclaimed, "You're back!"
After speaking, she realized she had spoken too loudly and quickly covered her mouth, her adorable appearance melting hearts.
Unas strode forward, took her hand, and suddenly knelt down on one knee with a thud. "Will you marry me, my princess?"
The two people inside the Tent were stunned. Neither of them expected the Paladin to suddenly stage such a marriage proposal, not even Unas himself.
When Luisa turned around after their long separation, the overwhelming love that surged within him was something he couldn't fake. In a moment of impulse, he did what he had always wanted to do but never dared to.
But who cares? I've already made up my mind—to do what I want to do, without any regrets!
Luisa clutched her chest, unable to believe it was real, but tears welled up in her eyes like a burst dam, a release of excitement and joy.
"I do! I do!"
Since the fall of her country and the destruction of her home, Luisa had never shouted so joyfully. The two echoes seemed to cast away all the pain, grievances, and sorrow she had experienced, and an overwhelming sense of happiness instantly enveloped her.
Unas was so happy he almost jumped for joy. He picked up his beloved girl and spun her around before realizing he hadn't prepared anything. He quickly took off the Ruby Ring on his hand and put it on Luisa's finger.
This storage ring, adorned with the Finger of Death, is priceless and perfectly suited to the incomparably noble bride.
Unas tried several times to Finger of Death, but to no avail. He figured the Ring was incompatible with his own destiny, so giving it to Luisa would be a good way for her to protect herself. He would retrieve the contents of the Ring later.
Gail, standing to the side, felt a bittersweet joy. In his heart, this lowly wild boy was unworthy of Princess Lordaeron, but he was just a guard and had no right to interfere. Seeing his mistress so happy, he could only empathize with her.
Suddenly, the Tent flap was flung open, and a figure burst in, shouting, "No! I don't agree to this marriage!"