Chapter 598: Overwhelming Prestige

Jandice displayed immense courage.

In this era, lineage was paramount. Almost every noble proclaimed themselves a descendant of Emperor Thoradin. Yet, most of the royal families from the seven human kingdoms were merely allies who stood beside Emperor Thoradin over 2800 years ago. Terenas's lineage traced back to Lodan, while Thoras Trollbane's ancestors were bestowed their surname by the Emperor.

No one could downplay the weight of noble blood.

Everyone knew that Duke Marcus's protection of Jandice ensured the Barov lineage's continuation.

In essence, as long as Jandice bore the Barov name, even if branded a traitor, she was undeniably noble. Given Duke Marcus's reluctance to marry a princess from the seven kingdoms, marrying Jandice and taking the Barov surname was unobjectionable.

However, the name Marcus, fabricated by Duke Marcus, was seen as lowly by other nobles.

Jandice's decision to forsake her surname was well-intended, hoping Duke Marcus wouldn't antagonize the mighty Kingdom of Lordaeron for her sake.

This was the mindset of Azeroth's nobility.

Terenas breathed a sigh of relief at Jandice's declaration. Many perceived Duke Marcus's move as a reluctant compromise. Forfeiting one's name, even with noble blood, often meant losing recognition.

Yet, Duke Marcus rebelled.

"Enough! Jandice, your brothers deserve execution, but your father is innocent. Stripping your family's lands was punishment enough. As King Menethil's judgment didn't revoke the Barov name, you have no right to abandon it. My countess is Jandice *Barov, not a nameless woman."

The hall erupted in shock.

Sheer madness!

Was this a declaration of war against Terenas?

Duke's audacity was incomprehensible without deep-seated enmity.

Terenas would've exploded in a private setting.

But this was the throne council!

Terenas's demeanor resembled one struck by lightning.

Duke wasn't just challenging him; he was outright mocking him.

Llane and Anduin realized that Duke left no room for Terenas to maneuver. They remained silent, considering the guards behind them.

"Depart with your father, Countess Jandice," commanded Duke. Once she supported the feeble Duke Barov out, Duke focused on Terenas.

Terenas had a card up his sleeve. Rising, he proudly brandished his King's scepter: "Today is the Alliance's day of triumph. We've expelled the traitor Barov. Today is also a joyous day for the Alliance's eleven nations. I present to you, heir to the Alterac royal lineage - Lord Prestor."

First, the side doors unveiled Lordaeron's royal guards, each holding documents affirming Lord Prestor's identity.

In this age, a magically preserved and verifiable family tree was vital proof of noble lineage.

Duke was astounded.

Was this their undeniable evidence?

Duke felt deceived.

As the guards presented their proof, Duke observed silently. Amidst the fanfare, Lord Prestor made his grand entrance.

Many anticipated Lord Prestor's evident delight. Not every day does one ascend to kingship.

As the grand doors opened, and Daval *Prestor emerged, many were awestruck.

Lord Prestor towered over others, a giant in the human realm.

He exuded regality in his black suit with silver linings. The menacing dragon embroidered on his chest surpassed even the lion emblem of Stormwind in intensity, giving him an aura of a war hero.

Alleria teased Duke, "He seems more of an Alliance hero than you."

"He only seems so," Duke replied nonchalantly.

Lord Prestor first acknowledged Terenas, then gracefully bowed to each cardinal direction, ensuring everyone in the throne hall felt his presence.

"I, Daval Prestor, salute the Kings and Commanders!" After greeting everyone, Prestor stood tall, his demeanor unyielding.