Volume 8: The Road to the Ancient Dragon Chapter 406: Withdrawal from the Alliance
Murphy looked at the subtle changes in Godwin's expression, but he had an inexplicable feeling in his heart that all the chaos before him was planned by Godwin long ago.
Although it seemed that everyone was outraged and unhappy with Godwin's plan, in fact, all of this was part of his plan.
This idea surprised Murphy himself.
This guy wouldn't really be so calculating, right?
Logically speaking, as the leader of the alliance, Godwin should work hard to maintain the stability and cohesion of the alliance.
Even if you want to extort money from each kingdom and weaken their power, you have to design it cleverly and leave no trace.
But from his announcement that he would raise funds to build an orc detention center, to now adding several goals to the plan, it seems like he is deliberately trying to anger other countries.
Could it be that——A guess suddenly emerged in Murphy's mind.
Could it be that Godwin wanted to actively cause the Alliance to split, and then unify the countries by force and establish the Empire of Lordaeron?
Murphy had reasons to think so. He remembered that Tianxiu had introduced him to the internal situation of the royal family of Lordaeron. There were quite a few players from the Empire faction, and Godwin was the leader of this faction.
Directly attacking an ally will definitely lead to a sharp drop in reputation, and may even result in a siege. No matter how strong Lordaeron is, it is impossible to fight against several allies alone. However, if all countries voluntarily withdraw from the alliance and everyone goes their separate ways, then Godwin will not face as much resistance when he takes action again.
Moreover, if Lordaeron is defeated one by one, it can completely achieve a crushing effect by relying on its national strength.
But is he really so confident? Although Lordaeron is powerful, the other countries are not pushovers either. If they really want to fight, they can drag it out even if they can't win. If everyone teams up to fight Lordaeron, the war will definitely not end in a short time. If the Horde breaks out of the Dark Portal again at this time, won't the Alliance be in danger?
No, Godwin is definitely not that kind of iron-blooded and domineering person. He must have some deeper plan.
While Murphy was guessing, the noise had gradually subsided. Although everyone was still shouting out their own contributions and difficulties, their eyes were all looking at Godwin.
The meaning is obvious. We have made such a fuss, you have to give an explanation. Do you want to cancel the plan or let Lordaeron pay for it? You don't want to offend the public.
Godwin suddenly sneered.
"That's enough. Look at you. As leaders of the alliance countries, you have no sense of responsibility at all. You are fighting for power and money like gangsters. You have no image at all. I am really disappointed."
These words immediately made the leaders of various countries' faces turn pale, and they all showed angry expressions. Although you are the leader of the alliance, we are all kings, princes, or at least great lords. Who is afraid of who?
Solanlian frowned slightly, and a hint of anger appeared on her pretty face. "Your Majesty Godwin, your accusation is groundless. The gold coins in our treasury are all taxes paid by the people. We must be responsible for the rights and interests of the people, and naturally we cannot waste them at will."
Godwin (King of Lordaeron): "Haha, what a big hat! Everyone knows that Silvermoon City, the capital of Quel'Thalas, is famous for its magnificence. His Majesty Anasterian's palace is even more luxurious, with diamond chandeliers and gold floors. It is said that the cost of building a palace is worth tens of millions.
I guess your people would be happy to pay any price to add a golden tile to your king's feet, but are unwilling to contribute a copper coin to the stability and tranquility of the alliance. "
Godwin looked at Trollbane again and said, "Your Majesty, Trollbane, how did you become king? I think everyone knows that the Kingdom of Stromgarde did pay a lot in the last war, but if it weren't for the Alliance army, your kingdom would have been razed to the ground by the orcs. Is this kindness enough to pay for the food and supplies you provided?"
"King Blaney, King Genn's death was indeed heroic and fearless. He was not afraid to sacrifice his own life to fight against the common enemy of the Alliance. But it seems that you are far inferior to your father. Not only do you not want to sacrifice your life for the Alliance, you are even reluctant to spend the gold coins, isn't it?"
Godwin's words successfully made the faces of everyone present even uglier.
Magni (King of Ironforge): "Godwin, how can you say that? This hurts everyone's feelings and will destroy the unity of the Alliance. If King Terenas were still alive, what would he think?"
Before Godwin could speak, Blainey could not help but shout angrily.
"That's enough. Gilneas will never pay such an unreasonable burden. Unless His Majesty Godwin abandons this plan, the Kingdom of Gilneas would rather withdraw from the Alliance than pay such a large sum of money to feed a group of orcs who killed my father!"
What!
This shout immediately made everyone 'shocked'.
There is a bit of acting in this shock, but there is definitely sincerity in it. You can be angry, but you shouldn't quit the group at every turn.
Magni (King of Ironforge): "Blaine, don't be impulsive. If King Genn is still alive, he would never want to see such a result."
There must be something fishy going on, Murphy thought to himself. Blainey has a good relationship with Godwin. Even if he doesn't support Godwin, he won't be the first to sing a different tune, right?
There is a problem, absolutely there is a problem.
Blayney (King of Gilneas): "Well, let's not talk about quitting the Alliance. I think it's better to vote directly. The Alliance is not the Alliance of Lordaeron, but the alliance of all kingdoms and all wise races who are committed to justice. If everyone decides to reject this plan, I don't think it is necessary to implement it."
Godwin (King of Lordaeron): "Okay, let's vote. If all the leaders really don't want to accept this plan, then I am willing to accept this result. But if the plan is passed, everyone must accept it.
I think you are definitely not unreasonable people, please consider my proposal seriously before making a decision. "
After hearing this, everyone looked at me and I looked at you, all of them were a little surprised.
Although the Alliance has a system similar to that of the United Nations, it has never been based on headcount. After all, the various kingdoms are strong and weak, and the population and territory vary greatly. It is obviously not reasonable to count Lordaeron and Gnomeregan as one vote.
Therefore, voting like this is very rare.
Generally, everyone discusses it together, persuades each other, and seeks support, and usually a unified voice is formed in the end.
It is still outrageous that something like the current vote is necessary.
Leaders of various countries were calculating their gains and losses. Solanlian calculated everyone's reactions and nodded first, "I agree. Let's decide by voting."
She could easily figure out that the majority of people were clearly against this plan. Godwin's plan was ridiculous. If anyone was to blame, it was because he had included the orc detention center. How could anyone accept the idea of using money to support orcs?
Everyone also expressed their opinions.
"vote!"
"vote!"
"Vote, but Alterac only counts as one vote."
"Yes, that's right, and you must first determine who will vote."
Zhuaganbao and Darkseid both looked helpless. They were both sitting in the gallery at the back, so they could only point at Murphy together.
Murphy looked at everyone's similar reactions and the tense situation between Godwin and Blainey, but he always felt that something was wrong.
"I think such an important decision should not be decided by voting, but should be made through long consultations and discussions to determine its rationality and feasibility. There is no need to rush."
As soon as these words came out, they immediately attracted several surprised looks.
They are all kings who are against the plan. The meaning is very clear. With so many people opposing it, we will have a great advantage in the vote.
Solanlian glared at him, "Prince Aidan, do you know what you are doing?"
Murphy glanced at the great astrologer and said, "Of course I know what I am doing. Do you know what you are doing, elf?"
Magni suddenly interrupted and said, "I think we should hold a vote first."
This remark immediately caused a burst of laughter.
But it's an idea.
The result was that it was passed unanimously except for Murphy.
According to Dalaran Archmage Antonidas, this is the best way to reflect fairness and equality among the countries within the Alliance.
Murphy sighed and could only accept it.
Voting will begin soon.
"My Kingdom of Quel'Thalas refuses to accept this plan." Solanlian said proudly.
"My kingdom of Stromgarde refuses to accept this plan." Trollbane also chose to refuse.
"Stormwind Kingdom supports His Majesty Godwin's plan." Lothar voted in favor without any surprise.
"My Kingdom of Kul Tiras supports this plan." Proudmoore Navy said expressionlessly.
Murphy was a little surprised that Kul Tiras actually chose to support Godwin. Historically, Kul Tiras was the most fierce opponent.
But if you think about it carefully, this result is both unexpected and reasonable.
Historically, the reason for opposition was that Prince Drake, the crown prince, died in battle. Admiral Proudmoore had only two sons, and of course he hated the orcs because his most beloved heir had died.
However, no prince of Kul Tiras died in this orc war, and Proudmoore had many sons, so he probably wouldn't care so much even if three or five of them died.
"Ironforge abstains," said Magni Bronzebeard.
"Gnomeregan abstains." The dwarf master craftsman, who had always had little presence, followed suit.
Dwarves and gnomes are neighbors and have always been on good terms with each other. It is not surprising that the two brothers chose not to help each other, as Ironforge is not short of money.
Murphy quickly glanced at King Magni, thinking, why are you neutral? Shouldn't you be against it? Your dwarf prince is still in my hands.
But the other party just spread his hands, looking helpless, and no one knew what he meant.
"Eagle's Nest Mountain refuses to accept this plan." Falstad was not used to bad tempers. He hated evil and had no good feelings towards orcs at all. He almost shouted out loud.
"Dalaran supports this plan." Antonidas said slowly.
"Lordaeron also supports this plan." Godwin said, looking at Murphy, "Prince Aidan, what does Alterac say?"
Murphy looked at the crowd. Now there were four votes in favor, three votes against, and two abstentions.
Gilneas hasn't expressed his opinion yet, but judging from Blaney's intense reaction just now, he will definitely object, so it will be four against four.
If this is true, it means that my vote will determine whether the plan is implemented.
But will things really turn out this way? Ironforge's neutrality and Kul Tiras' support made Murphy smell something bad. Godwin must have planned this meeting long ago, and he would never let the plan fail.
If the plan was really rejected, Godwin's reputation would undoubtedly suffer a great blow. Could it be that he was really unprepared?
He looked at Blaney again. This guy who was aggressive before was not in a hurry to express his opinion now.
Murphy sighed in his heart. He could only do his best and leave the rest to fate.
"Alterac objects to this plan."
Murphy said.
"Gilneas supports this plan," Blayney said proudly.
What!
Everyone had different reactions, but most were very surprised, especially Solanlian, who had a look of disbelief on her face and her mouth wide open.
Murphy secretly sighed in his heart, he actually guessed it right.
Godwin and Blainey are playing a double act. I'm afraid they must have discussed it beforehand.
There is definitely PY trading with Ironforge and Stormwind.
Trollbane and Falstad were both very angry, thinking to themselves, "You old man, you were the one who was singing the opposite tune just now, but now you are acting like a submissive citizen."
Solanlian was so angry that his face turned red, his pretty face was almost distorted, and his long pointed ears began to tremble.
The elves absolutely cannot accept this plan. You must know that in the plan, Quel'Thalas and Lordaeron will bear the highest cost, a full three million gold coins.
Even if Quel'Thalas has money, it can't waste it like this.
The Sun King would never accept such an agreement, but she agreed to decide the arrangement based on the results of the vote.
Isn't this just digging a hole for yourself?
However, when she thought of the instructions given by the Sun King before departure, Solanlian calmed down again.
Holy shit! It's all over.
Zhuagenbao and Darkseid were both shocked. If this happened, they would have to pay for it.
The two of them looked at Murphy hurriedly and winked at him.
This money can’t be taken out!
If it doesn’t work, just quit the group!
Since the five nations have already established a co-governance, why not just withdraw from the alliance and form the Alterac Alliance, and bring in the other opposing nations at the same time.
Murphy felt the anxious gazes of the two people, but did not directly stand up and announce his withdrawal from the alliance. At this point, he either accepted the plan or withdrew from the alliance. However, Alterac must not be the first to withdraw from the alliance.
It is easy to leave the alliance, but it is difficult to join again.
If Godwin really wanted to force all countries to withdraw from the alliance as he guessed, and then attack them one by one, then he would most likely start with Alterac.
Historically, Lordaeron successfully annexed Alterac. Alterac had a small population and was weak, yet it was adjacent to Lordaeron, making it the most suitable place for action.
It’s better not to refund if you can.
Others probably had the same idea. Everyone looked at each other, and no one was willing to express their opinion.
In the end, Solanlian was the first to stand up.
Solanlian (Grand Astromancer): "I am very disappointed. Quel'Thalas suffered a great injustice today. The Alliance completely disrespected the wishes of Quel'Thalas. In this case, I declare that Quel'Thalas will withdraw from the Alliance from today and will no longer accept the command of the Alliance. We, the elves, will forge our own path."
When Trollbane saw this, his eyes lit up and he stood up as well.
Trollbane (King of Stromgarde): "I also announce that due to the huge differences in how to deal with the orcs, the Kingdom of Stromgarde withdraws from the Alliance! From now on, it will no longer be led by the Alliance."
Falstad hesitated for a moment but did not follow up. Eagle's Nest Mountain was relatively weak and had been fighting with the surrounding troll tribes all year round. It was in dire need of the support of the Alliance. It was okay to talk big, but withdrawing from the Alliance was a bit radical.
Murphy also didn't speak.
It is easy to leave the Alliance, but it is not so easy to join again. Historically, Gilneas and Silvermoon City left the Alliance, and later paid a huge price to rejoin.
Silvermoon City was completely isolated , and its capital was directly breached. Later, when it wanted to return to the Alliance, it was bullied in various ways.
Gilneas also failed to get support from the Alliance during the werewolf plague. Later, it was only when old Genn went to Varian for help with a stern face that he reluctantly returned to the Alliance.
At this time, the representatives of the Kingdom of Stromgarde and the Kingdom of the Elve left angrily.
Godwin had no intention of trying to keep him, but instead spoke with a serious face.
"I respect the choices of the two countries, but please allow me to remind you that once you withdraw from the alliance, you will no longer have the protection of the alliance. If your country is attacked or in crisis, the alliance will have no responsibility to support you."
Solanlian (Grand Astrologer): "No need. We elves can protect ourselves."
Trollbane (King of Stromgarde): "You are right. The brave warriors of Stromgarde are not afraid of any enemy's threat."
After they finished talking, they left their seats and left the conference room.
Murphy looked at Godwin again, and the other party was looking at him with an expectant look on his face, as if he was waiting for him to withdraw from the alliance.
Murphy suddenly laughed.
Aidan (Prince of Alterac): "Your Majesty Godwin, I think your plan needs to be readjusted. Now that the economic support of the two kingdoms , the amount of gold previously planned is obviously no longer applicable to the current situation. Moreover, Alterac is in economic distress due to Lordaeron's economic blockade, and may not be able to do so - although I personally hope to do my part for the Alliance.
Therefore, I propose that we should carefully study the feasibility of this plan and the specific amount of gold coins to be collected in the next few days."
Anyway, as long as there is something to talk about, there is room for maneuver. How many gold coins you will get is still unknown.
Anyway, we in Alterac have no money, what can you do?
Crying poor is all about making a living, it's not shabby.
After hearing what Murphy said, Godwin felt helpless. If Alterac refused to withdraw from the alliance, he really had no choice. The other party just had no money, but it didn't say that they couldn't help.
Fortunately, the plan has been basically implemented. Considering the combat effectiveness of the Dragon Knights, it is a good thing for Alterac to stay.
Godwin (King of Lordaeron): "Prince Aidan is right. I don't want to see this outcome either. I'm very sorry that things have developed to this point. Fortunately, we still have a chance to make amends.
How about this, split up my original plan.
1. Investment in Stormwind City reconstruction. Each country will provide funds as investment according to its affordability, and the funds will be repaid in ten years from the national treasury income after Stormwind City is rebuilt.
2. The Orc Guard Corps is formed by joint efforts of various countries, but if there is a lack of funds, they can provide assistance by providing troops and generals.
3. Orc detention center. In view of the anger over the atrocities committed by the orcs, I think that perhaps it should not be funded by various countries. Therefore, I have decided that Lordaeron should be responsible for the orc detention center independently, and all orc captives should be transported to Lordaeron for resettlement within the next month.
In this way, the amount of money that countries need to bear can be greatly reduced.
Zhuagenbao and Darkseid breathed a sigh of relief when they heard this. The reconstruction funds for Stormwind City could be considered an investment, so an investment of ten or twenty thousand would be enough. Besides, they could get the money back anyway, so it was not a loss.
Orc Vigilance Corps, we will just send troops from Alterac. Anyway, the five kingdoms now have too many standing troops and we can't afford to keep them. Sending some of them away can reduce maintenance costs.
The Orc Detention Center is even more fun, and you don’t have to spend a single gold coin.
By this calculation, it doesn't cost much money at all.
After figuring this out, the two of them were very impressed that their younger brother did not withdraw from the alliance. It was a good thing that he did not withdraw.
Naturally, other countries will not object.
So the meeting ended there.
[World Announcement: In the year 1439 of the Sky Era, as the disputes over power and obligations within the Alliance intensified, the rifts between the countries in the Alliance became increasingly apparent.
This caused widespread anger among the kingdoms due to their dissatisfaction with the huge amount of money needed to build the orc detention center and rebuild Stormwind City.
In the end, the Kingdoms of Quel'Thalas and Stromgarde chose to withdraw from the Alliance one after another.
The Kingdom of Quel'Thalas was transformed from an official camp to a neutral force.
The Kingdom of Stromgarde was transformed from an official camp to a neutral force.
Although the Kingdom of Alterac, the Kingdom of Gilneas, and the dwarves of Aerie Mountain were also dissatisfied with the plan, out of trust and loyalty to the Alliance, Prince Aidan, Prince Blaney, and Prince Falstad still chose to stay in the Alliance and continue to fulfill their mission.
But despite successfully saving the alliance, centrifugal ideas within the alliance were inevitable.
This event has been recorded in the Sky Chronicles. 】
