Chapter 580: Duke's Great Bluff - Part 1

In the wake of the victorious battle against the orcs, Duke felt an exhilarating sense of triumph. Even more, the fateful demise of Lothar had been averted.

The well-being of age-old allies meant more to him than any treasure.

Just consider the brilliant, ever-steadfast King Llane Wrynn and the loyal Anduin Lothar. Their safety would prove invaluable in his future endeavors.

However, Duke's elation was cut short by a chilling system notification that sent shivers down his spine.

"Congratulations, champion. You've become an influential figure in Azeroth, bestowed with the title of 'Hero.' Yet, due to your repeated interventions with key figures pivotal to the timeline, the resemblance of this world to the Azeroth you knew is dwindling. Current similarity stands at 76%. Caution! Your alterations have surpassed the Bronze Dragonflight's tolerance. A 'correction' assault from the future Bronze Dragons is imminent."

The weight of this revelation was crushing for Duke.

"How could I forget about them?" he murmured, considering the Bronze Dragonflight of Azeroth, the epitome of a neutral faction.

For the most part, they remained passive, tasked by the Titans to guard time and history.

Duke recalled participating in several crucial in-game campaigns, traveling back in time to counter the tampering of the Burning Legion and other disruptive forces. Theoretically, if malevolent entities altered past events—like eliminating pivotal figures—the present could collapse.

Protecting history was tantamount to preserving one's existence.

Indeed, battling bosses had been thrilling. But the thought of being targeted was daunting.

What if the Bronze Dragons perceived him as a threat? What if they sought his demise, along with those close to him? And what if the mighty Nozdormu himself came to claim his life?

Duke was uncertain, but one thing was clear: trouble loomed.

An unprecedented desire for power surged within him. Compared to the formidable Bronze Dragonflight, his forces seemed as insignificant as ants.

If only he possessed the might of the legendary Medivh at his prime, with the strategic advantage of Karazhan. Then, he'd dare to challenge even Nozdormu.

But now, Duke wouldn't let his hard-won empire be reset by the Bronze Dragons' obsession with 'correcting history.'

What if everything reverted according to history? Several allies and dear ones, including Alleria, would meet their doomed fates in the upcoming Northrend expedition.

Acceptable?

"Whoever accepts this is a damned fool!" Duke vented aloud, momentarily finding solace in his outburst.

Fortunately, he had the system. Otherwise, an unexpected Bronze Dragon onslaught might've left him completely baffled.

Regaining his composure, Duke began assessing the cards in his and the Bronze Dragons' hands. He had an inkling, but it was still insufficient.

"I need insurance," he muttered.

Using a magical message, Duke contacted the Red Dragon Queen.

"Hey, Alexstrasza! How've you been?"

"Ah, Duke! Same old. I heard about your victory—impressive. I thought without the Red Dragonflight, you'd struggle against those pesky green-skins," Alexstrasza exclaimed, her humanoid form radiating delight.

"Hah! Just some orcs. By the way, we took down Zuluhed, who once enslaved you and your kin."

"Brilliant!" The Queen gave a thumbs up. "What brings you to me?"

"Why, can't I just visit?"

"You're inviting me for drinks?" The gleam in Alexstrasza's eyes was unmistakable.

Duke's expression soured, recalling her questionable drinking habits.

"Drinks alone are boring. Actually, I've stumbled upon something. I'm not entirely sure, just about a 50% hunch."

When Duke relayed his concerns, Alexstrasza paled, then immediately sought the Green Dragon Queen, Ysera, followed by the Blue Dragon, Malygos. Finally, Nozdormu was contacted.

As Ysera's Emerald Dream connected to Nozdormu's desert lair, a thunderous roar echoed: "Duke Marcus! What have you done?!"

Faced with the sudden outburst, Duke, along with the three Dragon Aspects, wore a collective look of bewilderment.

Misreading the genuine confusion on Duke's face, Nozdormu hesitated. "That was quite rude, Nozdormu. Duke has discovered crucial information and approached us. What's your issue? Or did Duke truly commit something?" said Alexstrasza, shielding Duke.

Sensing no ill intent from Duke, Nozdormu grew contemplative. He had received dire warnings from his future self about Duke's actions. Initially, the Bronze Dragonlord had sought to test Duke, but now he was second-guessing the intel.

Duke, on the other hand, had prepared for confrontation, ready to defend his actions and the timeline he cherished.

In the face of this tense standoff, the fate of Azeroth hung in the balance.