Chapter 446: Commander - Anduin Lothar

Although the kings hoped Alaric, as an outsider, would provide a suggestion, they initially rejected the idea of Anduin Lothar.

Anduin Lothar?

Who was that?

The military commander of Stormwind?

Wasn't Stormwind already overrun by the orcish Horde?

Anduin Lothar—a failure, the commander of an exiled kingdom, not even a king. What right did he have to be the Supreme Commander of the Alliance?

However, after some deliberation, the kings began to see the advantages of Lothar as commander.

First, he wasn't a king, not even a high-ranking noble—just a knight. 

This meant that, in terms of aristocratic hierarchy, Lothar was far beneath the kings. Even if Lothar served as the supreme commander, the kings wouldn't feel overshadowed. 

In fact, following Lothar's orders could even make them appear humble. 

On the other hand, if the Supreme Commander were of equal standing to the kings, it might lead to awkwardness among them.

Second, Stormwind had already lost all its territory, practically reduced to ruins. 

With its strength now the weakest among the nations and its resources devoted to supporting refugees, Lothar would have limited resources at his disposal. 

This meant he would have no choice but to rely on the combined forces of the Alliance, reducing the risk of favoritism. After all, Lothar didn't have many "insiders" to favor in the first place.

Third, Lothar's lineage as a descendant of Emperor Thoradin carried significant weight—not so much with the kings, for whom it might be more of an annoyance—but for ordinary soldiers and citizens, it held powerful appeal. 

Most common folk grew up hearing tales of Emperor Thoradin. A Supreme Commander descended from such a hero was more inspiring to the masses than any king could be. 

After all, the title of king typically only rallied the morale of one's own people, while for allied forces, it often carried the risk of suspicion and resentment.

Moreover, Lothar's lineage would also resonate strongly with the high elves. This proud and long-lived race was historically reluctant to associate too closely with human nations. 

The only alliance they had ever acknowledged was the pact with Thoradin during the troll wars. 

For the high elves, who valued contracts and oaths, fighting alongside Thoradin's descendant would honor their ancient promise—a tempting prospect for kings hoping to bring the elves into the Alliance. 

Dwarves, in turn, had always been more inclined toward the high elves than humans.

Finally, the kings considered Lothar's actual capabilities.

Even the most critical among them had to admit that, both as a warrior and a commander, Lothar was among the best humanity had to offer. 

His so-called failures were simply the result of Stormwind's futile struggle to face an entire orcish Horde on its own. 

In fact, his experience made him more knowledgeable about orcs than anyone else.

In the end, Alaric's suggestion won unanimous approval from the kings.

As the host, King Terenas joyfully announced the formation of the Alliance and appointed Anduin Lothar as its Supreme Commander. 

He spoke grandly of humanity once again uniting under the banner of Thoradin and the revival of the Arathorian Empire.

Thus, Lothar was thrust into this position, going from a defeated commander to the head of the Alliance overnight.

The kings expressed their agreement with whispers or nods. 

One by one, they approached Lothar to congratulate him and promised their full support—though both King Perenolde and Genn Greymane seemed slightly insincere.

Afterward, the kings departed, leaving only Lothar, King Llane, Alaric, and a few others in the council chamber.

As an aside, Lothar had recommended Alaric as the Alliance's military advisor, a suggestion that was also unanimously approved by the kings.

Alaric strongly suspected this was Lothar's way of getting back at him.

Once the others had left the room, Lothar immediately turned to Alaric with a question.

"Honored Archmage Sand, I thought we were friends," Lothar said, frowning and speaking in a low voice. "Why on earth would you propose such a suggestion? 

The people of Stormwind are still suffering, waiting for my help. This makes things…awkward for both Llane and me."

Lothar had a point. He was, after all, Llane's subject, but now he had suddenly risen above him to lead the Alliance. Even with their close personal relationship, it was bound to feel awkward.

Before Alaric could respond, however, Llane spoke up to reassure him.

"No, don't worry about me, Anduin," Llane said gently. "I agree with his suggestion. You are the most suitable candidate for the Alliance's commander. 

As a leader, no one knows those monsters better than you. Right now, the top priority is to resist the orcs. This is where you're needed the most. 

You know, Anduin, I've always trusted you, just as you've trusted me. So don't concern yourself with my feelings—I'm glad to see you in this position!"

Llane's words eased Lothar's mind, and Alaric's explanation further solidified his resolve.

"Frankly, you're the only choice," the young mage began. "Every one of them wants to handle matters their own way. 

They can't stand the thought of another king stepping into their territory. 

You, however, are not a king, and your rank isn't high, so they don't see you as a threat to their interests or pride. Yet your noble lineage prevents them from feeling disrespected."

Alaric's tone softened as he continued: "I know I'm asking a lot of you, and I apologize. But if this didn't have such a significant impact on the bigger picture, I wouldn't have made this request."

"I accept the appointment," Lothar finally said. "I will lead the Alliance's forces against the Horde."

"I'm glad you've accepted this decision, Sir Lothar," Archbishop Faol encouraged. He had remained in the chamber as well.

"You are an excellent man, sir. I personally feel very reassured knowing you will lead us into battle."

"Thank you," Lothar replied.

Although not a devout man, Lothar had great respect for the clergy of the Cathedral of Light. Faol's praise made him feel both uneasy and proud.

"I believe you'll need some adjutants, sir," Faol continued. "I think it would be wise to include individuals not only from the kingdoms but also from the Church.

 I have some candidates in mind. This new arrangement, I believe, will greatly benefit the Alliance. I'll need some time to finalize the details and select suitable people. 

Could you meet me in the main courtyard four days from now, after lunch?"

With a polite nod, Faol turned and left with steady, deliberate steps.

While Lothar and Llane were left puzzled by Faol's remarks about "adjutants from the Church," Alaric understood exactly what he meant.

The paladins—a fusion of warrior and priest—were about to make their debut in Azeroth.

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