Stormwind City fell into chaos because of the Orc invasion and the king's sudden death.
Panic gripped the entire city. Many people spread rumors that the Orcs were about to launch an all-out offensive and the whole city would fall... everyone would either die or become slaves to the Orcs... some evil cults had even begun to spread through the city.
Fortunately, the timely return of the "King's Hand," Anduin Lothar, brought a measure of calm to the human kingdom's capital.
Prince Varian Wrynn... no, he was King Varian now, threw himself into Lothar's arms.
But the strong boy did not shed a single tear.
"I will avenge my father!" Varian said bitterly.
Witnessing his father's death had had an immense impact on the boy's mind.
"Leave that task to us for now, Varian!" Lothar said gravely. "My sword will show those Orcs no mercy."
Anyone who knew Lothar would have understood that the "King's Hand" was truly furious.
"Lord Regent, the Council of Nobles has convened!" A guard came to the doorway and reported quietly, "They hope that you and His Majesty will attend."
The Regent naturally referred to Lothar. No one would object to his holding that position.
At the mention of the "Council of Nobles," a flicker of worry crossed Lothar's eyes. He paused before replying, "Tell them to wait a little!"
"Yes, my lord!"
The guard left, and Lothar turned his gaze to Karin behind him, asking quietly, "What do you think, Karin?"
Lothar now trusted this Elf Mage a great deal, though they could hardly be called close acquaintances... for one thing, he was the heir to Medivh, the Guardian; for another, he had demonstrated ample wisdom and decisiveness during the battle at Karazhan.
Karin adjusted his Black-Frame Glasses (although he no longer needed