Part 4 - The Eastern War
As Anduin entered the room he noticed a dozen eyes glance in his direction and knew they were all thinking about him. About his outburst. About what his dad said to him. It was a lot easier when he was younger because even though he was a leader no one took him seriously and he didn't mind. Now he could see the eyes constantly judging him, praying that he could be the man his father was. Jaina broke his concentration when she said,
"Well I don't see any obvious wounds but then again I'm not a priest."
"Ha ha." Anduin said sarcastically. "You know not all wounds are visible to the eye."
"Well the fact that you made it back to the meeting is proof enough for me."
And with that she turned and walked away leaving Anduin feeling a bit better when he realized what she meant.
"Would you like something to eat sir?
Anduin turned and saw Elaine Trias holding a platter filled with all sorts of breads and cheeses.
"Hello Elaine I didn't see you come in."
"You know Elias. He loves to cater parties and would never miss a gathering like this. I highly recommend the Highland Sharp. It's our newest recipe and I think it's Elias' best creation yet." She handled him a piece and Anduin popped it into his mouth. It tasted to him just like any other cheese but he wanted to be polite so he responded,
"Wow that is good."
"Then you must have more", and handed him a platter piled with cheese and before he knew it Elaine was off to the next guest.
"Ummm thanks, I guess." Anduin said to no one in particular.
"You will find that goes down a lot better if you have something to drink. Perhaps a nice glass of milk?"
Anduin turned to see Mathias Shaw standing in front of him with a glass of milk. "Uh sure thanks Mathias."
Anduin had never known Mathias to do anything without an ulterior motive so he waited for the inevitable question.
"Elias was always a better rogue than he is as a cheese-maker. I'm amazed how well he's done."
Anduin wondered if there was a point to Mathias' question so he decided to wait some more.
"How's your dad doing?"
"I don't know. He's fine I guess."
"He talks about you all the time you know. About how proud he is of you ... and how you will be the ruler to bring peace a lasting peace to Azeroth."
"I don't know about all that."
Mathias just smiled and walked away.
As Anduin pondered Mathias' words his dad entered the room.
"Sorry for the delay. Now where were we. Oh yes... we had just finished the discussion on the Western Front." Anduin noticed a few looks in his direction at that comment. "Let's talk about the East. As you know we don't really have an active battle in the East, more like a series of isolated battles. So with that let's just go around the table. Let start with Goldshire ... Marshall Dugan?"
Dugan rose, "Nothing really to report sir. No Horde activity. Our patrols rarely run into resistance and the few enemies in the area are easily dispatched. Proximity to Stormwind probably doesn't hurt."
The king nodded, "Probably not. What about Westfall, Marshall Stoutmantle?"
Stoutmantle looked a bit uncomfortable but rose anyway, "Thanks sire. There's really not much to say about Westfall. Like Goldshire there's no Horde to speak of but we are having a difficult time keeping the criminal element in check. Our biggest problem isn't military it's the economy which is part due to the manpower losses from the last war. Many of the field that used to fill the silo's in Stormwind now barely can feed the people in Westfall. My biggest worry these days isn't the Horde but that the people are turning to crime instead of staying on the farm. This all goes back to the Defias..."
The king interjected, "We all know the story of the Defias, Stoutmantle. No need to repeat it."
Anduin knew the Defias story by heart since they killed his mother. The Defias were essentially Stonemason's that rebuilt Stormwind during the 3rd war but rebelled when the didn't get paid on time. His father sympathized with them but the city was broke and when one of the protests ended with his mother dead, the newly named Defias left town and retreated into Westfall. They'd been hunted to near extinction so it was difficult to hear that they might make a comeback.
The king changed the topic, "What about Darkshire - Commander Ebonlock?"
Anduin had heard many stories about Darkshire but long ago decided it was a place he wanted to avoid. The city was the site of a big battle from the 1st Orc War and even though the area was rebuilt the aura of death hung over the place. He knew the locals tried to live as they had before but some things are impossible.
"Things in Darkshire are similar to the way they've been since the town was rebuilt. We are in a constant battle with undead and wild animals but no Horde activity."
"OK. Let's see, Colonel Troutman from Redridge? I know you've had some attacks. How do things stand right now?"
"As you know we just beat back a massive invasion from Deathwing's forces in the Redridge mountains."
Anduin noticed a few looks of surprise around the table. This was news to him as well.
Troutman continued, "Frankly I don't know how we did it. We were outgunned and outmanned but lets just say we had a few good men. I say "had" a few good men because they are all dead now. Dead or moved on. My forces in the area literally consist of a few bridge guards and the few men guarding the Three Point Tower. I'd ask for more men if I didn't already know everyone else faces the same situation."
"Any recent activity?"
"Nothing major but we are keeping a close watch."
"Good to hear. Joanna Blueheart from our new base in Marshtide."
Anduin looked at this woman and wondered how someone that young could be leading an invasion. She didn't look any older than 25 and Anduin found himself checking her out in a way that never occurred to him with the others.
"Thanks King Varian. A few months ago I was sent as the commander of an expeditionary force we eventually called Marshtide Watch. As we all know the earthquakes caused immense devastation all over Azeroth but change isn't always bad. The Swamp of Sorrows always had great potential but it was remote so we ignored it. After the Cataclysm, our scouts noted that the tidal basin surrounding the sunken temple had broke open to the see forming a perfect location for a deep water port. My group was immediately dispatched to set up a base. The Horde have always had a small base nearby in Stonard so it really was a race to see who could take advantage first and we won. Ever since then we have been under constant attack by Horde forces from Stonard but we've driven them back every time. I'm confident that this base is safe and there is a chance we might take the Horde base. I have to say the Horde are amazingly resilient considering they don't any other bases nearby. We get our supplies from the sea and I can only guess they are getting supplies from Outland through the Dark Portal or by windrider from Stranglevale."
"Can you eliminate the Horde?"
"With enough men, sure."
The King nodded. "Ok. That's it for our Eastern forces. Let me summarize by saying that we are strongest in this area centered on Stormwind and less so the further you get from the city. The economy has been hit hard by the war and the Cataclysm but it is slowly coming back. Horde activity in the area is practically zero though that doesn't mean there aren't other dangers to keep an close eye on ... like a dragon that likes to knock down our statutes. Other than Deathwing, our current biggest threat is if the Blackrock orcs decide to hit us again. Sound like the current situation?"
Everyone at the table nodded in agreement. "Anduin? Anything to add?"
"No father." Anduin thought he might have caught a hint of disappointment to his response though he had no idea why.
"OK, well lunch is here so let's take another quick break. Bring it back to the table as I we've still got a lot of things to get through before the end of the day."
This time Anduin decided to find Jaina. He found her talking to Keegan.
"Sorry to interrupt Keegan, but do you have a moment Jaina?"
"Anything for you my Prince."
Anduin got the distinct impression he was being mocked though he noticed Jaina did that to everyone. They walked to a secluded spot in the room and he asked,
"Did I mess up again?"
"What do you mean?"
"When dad asked me the question. Did I mess up again? He just seemed disappointed."
"Perhaps though I'm not an expert on your father by any stretch of the imagination. He probably just wants you to get used to taking control of situations like this and wanted you to say something."
"But why wasn't it ok when I spoke about Taurajo." Anduin paused a second, "Oh wait... nevermind.. I think I get it now. The issue before was I didn't have all the facts on Taurajo. By not knowing all the fact I basically told his commanders that I didn't agree with him."
"Pretty much. Here's the thing. You can disagree with anyone's opinion but doing it after the fact is critcism and that is a very different thing. Especially when your dad is the king."
"This is so confusing."
"You'll get better at it over time. In the end I wouldn't worry too much. You are the Prince of Stormwind after all. Eventually everyone will be kissing your ...."
"Jaina!"
"Well it's true but don't worry. You'll always have your Auntie Jaina to keep you in line."
"Good grief."
"Speaking of keeping you in line I noticed you sneaking quick a few looks at Commander Blueheart. Was there something on her uniform that particularly interested you?
"Jaina! My god."
"Oh the tongues in the army will be wagging soon about this one."
"How will they find out?"
"You know the old tale about gossipy housewives? Well rumors in an army are worse. All it is going to take in one comment to the enlisted folk and it will spread like wildfire. Don't think the men in this room aren't as bad as any old maid when it comes to gossip though they might hold their tongue for you. Though I personally think she is a bit old for you."
Anduin just glared at Jaina as she made a hasty retreat for the food line.
As Anduin entered the room he noticed a dozen eyes glance in his direction and knew they were all thinking about him. About his outburst. About what his dad said to him. It was a lot easier when he was younger because even though he was a leader no one took him seriously and he didn't mind. Now he could see the eyes constantly judging him, praying that he could be the man his father was. Jaina broke his concentration when she said,
"Well I don't see any obvious wounds but then again I'm not a priest."
"Ha ha." Anduin said sarcastically. "You know not all wounds are visible to the eye."
"Well the fact that you made it back to the meeting is proof enough for me."
And with that she turned and walked away leaving Anduin feeling a bit better when he realized what she meant.
"Would you like something to eat sir?
Anduin turned and saw Elaine Trias holding a platter filled with all sorts of breads and cheeses.
"Hello Elaine I didn't see you come in."
"You know Elias. He loves to cater parties and would never miss a gathering like this. I highly recommend the Highland Sharp. It's our newest recipe and I think it's Elias' best creation yet." She handled him a piece and Anduin popped it into his mouth. It tasted to him just like any other cheese but he wanted to be polite so he responded,
"Wow that is good."
"Then you must have more", and handed him a platter piled with cheese and before he knew it Elaine was off to the next guest.
"Ummm thanks, I guess." Anduin said to no one in particular.
"You will find that goes down a lot better if you have something to drink. Perhaps a nice glass of milk?"
Anduin turned to see Mathias Shaw standing in front of him with a glass of milk. "Uh sure thanks Mathias."
Anduin had never known Mathias to do anything without an ulterior motive so he waited for the inevitable question.
"Elias was always a better rogue than he is as a cheese-maker. I'm amazed how well he's done."
Anduin wondered if there was a point to Mathias' question so he decided to wait some more.
"How's your dad doing?"
"I don't know. He's fine I guess."
"He talks about you all the time you know. About how proud he is of you ... and how you will be the ruler to bring peace a lasting peace to Azeroth."
"I don't know about all that."
Mathias just smiled and walked away.
As Anduin pondered Mathias' words his dad entered the room.
"Sorry for the delay. Now where were we. Oh yes... we had just finished the discussion on the Western Front." Anduin noticed a few looks in his direction at that comment. "Let's talk about the East. As you know we don't really have an active battle in the East, more like a series of isolated battles. So with that let's just go around the table. Let start with Goldshire ... Marshall Dugan?"
Dugan rose, "Nothing really to report sir. No Horde activity. Our patrols rarely run into resistance and the few enemies in the area are easily dispatched. Proximity to Stormwind probably doesn't hurt."
The king nodded, "Probably not. What about Westfall, Marshall Stoutmantle?"
Stoutmantle looked a bit uncomfortable but rose anyway, "Thanks sire. There's really not much to say about Westfall. Like Goldshire there's no Horde to speak of but we are having a difficult time keeping the criminal element in check. Our biggest problem isn't military it's the economy which is part due to the manpower losses from the last war. Many of the field that used to fill the silo's in Stormwind now barely can feed the people in Westfall. My biggest worry these days isn't the Horde but that the people are turning to crime instead of staying on the farm. This all goes back to the Defias..."
The king interjected, "We all know the story of the Defias, Stoutmantle. No need to repeat it."
Anduin knew the Defias story by heart since they killed his mother. The Defias were essentially Stonemason's that rebuilt Stormwind during the 3rd war but rebelled when the didn't get paid on time. His father sympathized with them but the city was broke and when one of the protests ended with his mother dead, the newly named Defias left town and retreated into Westfall. They'd been hunted to near extinction so it was difficult to hear that they might make a comeback.
The king changed the topic, "What about Darkshire - Commander Ebonlock?"
Anduin had heard many stories about Darkshire but long ago decided it was a place he wanted to avoid. The city was the site of a big battle from the 1st Orc War and even though the area was rebuilt the aura of death hung over the place. He knew the locals tried to live as they had before but some things are impossible.
"Things in Darkshire are similar to the way they've been since the town was rebuilt. We are in a constant battle with undead and wild animals but no Horde activity."
"OK. Let's see, Colonel Troutman from Redridge? I know you've had some attacks. How do things stand right now?"
"As you know we just beat back a massive invasion from Deathwing's forces in the Redridge mountains."
Anduin noticed a few looks of surprise around the table. This was news to him as well.
Troutman continued, "Frankly I don't know how we did it. We were outgunned and outmanned but lets just say we had a few good men. I say "had" a few good men because they are all dead now. Dead or moved on. My forces in the area literally consist of a few bridge guards and the few men guarding the Three Point Tower. I'd ask for more men if I didn't already know everyone else faces the same situation."
"Any recent activity?"
"Nothing major but we are keeping a close watch."
"Good to hear. Joanna Blueheart from our new base in Marshtide."
Anduin looked at this woman and wondered how someone that young could be leading an invasion. She didn't look any older than 25 and Anduin found himself checking her out in a way that never occurred to him with the others.
"Thanks King Varian. A few months ago I was sent as the commander of an expeditionary force we eventually called Marshtide Watch. As we all know the earthquakes caused immense devastation all over Azeroth but change isn't always bad. The Swamp of Sorrows always had great potential but it was remote so we ignored it. After the Cataclysm, our scouts noted that the tidal basin surrounding the sunken temple had broke open to the see forming a perfect location for a deep water port. My group was immediately dispatched to set up a base. The Horde have always had a small base nearby in Stonard so it really was a race to see who could take advantage first and we won. Ever since then we have been under constant attack by Horde forces from Stonard but we've driven them back every time. I'm confident that this base is safe and there is a chance we might take the Horde base. I have to say the Horde are amazingly resilient considering they don't any other bases nearby. We get our supplies from the sea and I can only guess they are getting supplies from Outland through the Dark Portal or by windrider from Stranglevale."
"Can you eliminate the Horde?"
"With enough men, sure."
The King nodded. "Ok. That's it for our Eastern forces. Let me summarize by saying that we are strongest in this area centered on Stormwind and less so the further you get from the city. The economy has been hit hard by the war and the Cataclysm but it is slowly coming back. Horde activity in the area is practically zero though that doesn't mean there aren't other dangers to keep an close eye on ... like a dragon that likes to knock down our statutes. Other than Deathwing, our current biggest threat is if the Blackrock orcs decide to hit us again. Sound like the current situation?"
Everyone at the table nodded in agreement. "Anduin? Anything to add?"
"No father." Anduin thought he might have caught a hint of disappointment to his response though he had no idea why.
"OK, well lunch is here so let's take another quick break. Bring it back to the table as I we've still got a lot of things to get through before the end of the day."
This time Anduin decided to find Jaina. He found her talking to Keegan.
"Sorry to interrupt Keegan, but do you have a moment Jaina?"
"Anything for you my Prince."
Anduin got the distinct impression he was being mocked though he noticed Jaina did that to everyone. They walked to a secluded spot in the room and he asked,
"Did I mess up again?"
"What do you mean?"
"When dad asked me the question. Did I mess up again? He just seemed disappointed."
"Perhaps though I'm not an expert on your father by any stretch of the imagination. He probably just wants you to get used to taking control of situations like this and wanted you to say something."
"But why wasn't it ok when I spoke about Taurajo." Anduin paused a second, "Oh wait... nevermind.. I think I get it now. The issue before was I didn't have all the facts on Taurajo. By not knowing all the fact I basically told his commanders that I didn't agree with him."
"Pretty much. Here's the thing. You can disagree with anyone's opinion but doing it after the fact is critcism and that is a very different thing. Especially when your dad is the king."
"This is so confusing."
"You'll get better at it over time. In the end I wouldn't worry too much. You are the Prince of Stormwind after all. Eventually everyone will be kissing your ...."
"Jaina!"
"Well it's true but don't worry. You'll always have your Auntie Jaina to keep you in line."
"Good grief."
"Speaking of keeping you in line I noticed you sneaking quick a few looks at Commander Blueheart. Was there something on her uniform that particularly interested you?
"Jaina! My god."
"Oh the tongues in the army will be wagging soon about this one."
"How will they find out?"
"You know the old tale about gossipy housewives? Well rumors in an army are worse. All it is going to take in one comment to the enlisted folk and it will spread like wildfire. Don't think the men in this room aren't as bad as any old maid when it comes to gossip though they might hold their tongue for you. Though I personally think she is a bit old for you."
Anduin just glared at Jaina as she made a hasty retreat for the food line.
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