"Jaina, Illucia, wait outside."
Jaina and Illucia exchanged a glance, nodded slightly, and left the sitting room.
Playing the part of a noble, virtuous prince was hardly difficult. But as a prince and the future ruler of Lordaeron City, relying on the Holy Light Doctrine was far from enough to govern a kingdom.
That was likely part of Terenas's reasoning when he had Arthas take on the kingdom's actual administrative affairs.
A king represented the justice of the ruler. The Holy Light Doctrine alone often lost touch with reality.
Arthas waited for Rowan's answer, his expression grave.
"For now, set aside your faith as a Paladin. You are the king of the Kingdom of Lordaeron," Rowan said solemnly.
Arthas frowned slightly. His father had no intention of abdicating, and discussing succession now was taboo. "My father is a great leader. I still have much to learn."
Clearly, Arthas had little interest in royal power at this stage.
But Rowan had no time to concern himself with Arthas's private thoughts. They were discussing the orc problem from the perspective of the Alliance's leadership.
One did not have to wait until ascending the throne to begin dealing with the kingdom's internal affairs.
"Listen to me. Don't interrupt."
Arthas nodded slightly and listened attentively.
"You have two choices before you. First, eliminate the threat for good. Dispose of the Orc Prisoners of War with minimal losses. Under the pretext of exiling the orcs, transport every remnant of the Old Horde out to the deep sea."
Rowan paused midway, watching Arthas's pale green eyes.
The meaning of Rowan's first suggestion was unmistakable.
Since the nations of the Alliance were unwilling to bear the guilt of exterminating the remnants of the Old Horde, Arthas would have to become their executioner.
Transport the orcs from the