Capítulo 585: Chapter 585: The Imminent Triumphal Ceremony
Truth be told, Duke never saw himself as a selfless being.
If saving Azeroth meant sacrificing Alleria, he wouldn't even consider it. From the outset, his journey towards heroism was merely to avoid becoming a Forsaken and to better his own circumstances. Naturally, while looking out for himself, Duke didn't mind playing savior to the world every now and then. And so, he was hailed as a hero of the Alliance.
Only after the Windrunner sisters' tears had ceased did Duke console them, "Don't overthink things. Whether it's the matter of Jandice, the Barov lineage, Alterac, or even Lord Daval Prestor's business, they can all be addressed collectively. Do you trust in my strategic prowess?"
"Indeed," responded the sisters in unison.
"Then leave it to me. King Terenas will soon falter. Let's bask in joy and anticipate the grand spectacle on the day of the triumphal ceremony."
A short while later, Duke was summoned away by his subordinate, Daniel.
Sylvanas stood upright and remarked to her eldest sister, "Alleria, didn't I once suggest you should officially marry Duke to secure your status? But you declined."
"I did."
Staring in the direction of Duke's departure, Sylvanas pondered, "Back then, I didn't understand. Now, I do."
Alleria tenderly held her sister's hand. "What have you come to realize, my dear sister?"
"The kingdom's marriage laws only ensure wealth and power. They can't guarantee love. To us high elves, who live for nearly ten thousand years, a human's century is but a fleeting moment. Make the most of these brief years without regrets. All else is secondary."
Upon hearing this, Alleria's face blossomed into a radiant smile. "Sister, I'm glad you understand now."
Sylvanas offered a slight grin, "Initially, I had little hope for love. Yet seeing you and Duke, I've come to realize that few men in this world truly captivate me."
Vereesa tried to interject, "Sylvanas, I wouldn't mind if..." but was promptly shushed by her sister.
"Even if you two don't mind, I certainly would! A man has only two hands, and he clearly has no room for more by his side." Concluding her statement, Sylvanas adjusted her attire, wiped away her tears, and departed with grace.
Behind her, she heard Alleria's voice, "Dear sister, I don't care about your affairs with other heroes, but remember, Lor'themar is nearing his twilight years."
Sylvanas nearly toppled over, stunned by the comment.
Time swiftly moved forward to December 22nd.
Three days later, on the 25th, a grand triumphal ceremony would be held in Lordaeron, the capital of the Alliance of Lordaeron. This was a significant day, not just for Duke, the traveler, but also for the people of Azeroth. They would be celebrating the Alliance's victory over the Horde.
News of the victory had spread throughout the Alliance territories. Many traveled from far and wide to Lordaeron to witness the triumphant soldiers and the upcoming prisoner presentation ceremony. Their joy at the Alliance's victory was coupled with their disdain for the Horde.
This was a war that swept across the continent, bringing devastation and loss of life to every city and village in human, dwarf, and high elf territories.
Rumors and discussions about the upcoming triumphal ceremony had begun since November.
"You hear about it? Over two hundred thousand soldiers from various nations will participate."
"I heard there are thirty thousand orc prisoners."
"Can we actually see the orcs? I've only dealt with local lords increasing taxes and conscripting soldiers. Never actually seen an orc."
"Ha! I heard from some noble that if you dare and can afford it, you can buy an orc laborer."
"Did you know? They might be electing a new king for Alterac since the former King Aiden betrayed the Alliance and was executed."
"That traitor Perenolde! Serves him right!"
Such were the whispers and speculations among the populace.
A storm was brewing beneath the veneer of this great victory.
On the 22nd, at Stormwind Keep, Marshal Anduin Lothar awaited Duke's arrival.
Upon seeing Duke alight from the carriage, Anduin warmly approached, giving Duke a hearty embrace. "Ah, Duke. While your own lands are of importance, do spare a thought for me and Llane. Affairs here are overwhelming."
Duke coughed, "How many times must I say not to squeeze so hard?"
Anduin, the great Marshal, flashed a charismatic smile, "That's for taking it easy on your duties."
Duke then proceeded to help the Windrunner sisters out of the carriage. Even Anduin couldn't help but smile at the gesture.
Of course, it was customary for a gentleman to offer his hand to assist a lady from a carriage. And while many watched, the Windrunner sisters would typically prefer to disembark independently.
But the sight was still enviable.
The noble and elegant Alleria.
The fierce and wild Sylvanas.
The gentle and serene Vereesa.
The Windrunner sisters, dressed to the nines, were unparalleled beauties, even in the entirety of the human world.
Gossip suggested that while Duke was officially involved with Alleria and Vereesa, he had charmed all three sisters, leaving only the expressionless youngest.
"Welcome, ladies of House Windrunner."
After the formalities, Anduin chuckled, "Now, originally Llane wanted to use your portal to Lordaeron for convenience. The nearly forty-day journey is quite taxing. But the councilors vehemently objected, and for the sake of protocol..."
Duke smirked, knowing full well that the use of portals wasn't as widely accepted as it would become in the future. This was, after all, not the era where even soldiers could be deployed via portals.
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