"Your Highness, have some food; this is freshly baked bread." Brigitte, dressed in battered armor, brought a tray to Prince Arthas's side, curiously observing him. He had saved her countless times today and only knew him to nod at as a greeting. There were too many nobles in Lordaeron, and numerous daughters of nobility sought to develop deeper relationships with Arthas, but unfortunately, none were successful.
"Thank you for today, Your Highness. If it weren't for you, I might have already died."
In his childhood, Arthas was always polite and courteous with everyone. He had an excellent reputation while other nobles. Even the ones who indulged in less savory activities, but kept it to drinking and feasting. Arthas diligently studied, making him a future good husband.
Arthas was also looking closely at Brigitte, smiling and shaking his head, "No need to be polite; it's all for the kingdom. The last time we met was three years ago, right?"
"Yes, since you followed Lord Muradin to study, we haven't seen much of you." Brigitte replied with a smile, her bravery was admirable, even to men. At this moment, she also displayed a talent for leadership.
In the story, she would one day take over her deceased father's position and lead the Scarlet Crusade. As a radiant rose, she ultimately died in Northrend due to her radicalism. The Scarlet Crusade is an organization twisted by the fearsome demon lord, existing to combat the undead. Anyone who does not join them is defined as an undead-infected person and must be killed. It's a very extreme organization.
Among them are excellent commanders, captains, soldiers, craftsmen, and talents; losing them was indeed unfortunate. He would make sure that didn't happen this time!
"As a prince, I must ensure that I can protect my people. Brigitte, you are doing well. I need your help; if possible, I would like you to be my lieutenant to assist me." Arthas looked sincerely at the radiant rose before him, recognizing her exceptional military talent and leadership ability; such a woman is naturally suited to be a leader.
He did not lack for talent but sought loyal and reliable individuals. The use of the noble system often leads to instability regarding territorial issues as it is their lifeblood. Therefore, Arthas didn't want to rely on the nobility. While some might possess potential, the disadvantages often outweigh the benefits. Once they gather strength, even kings must be cautious. If turmoil arises, it could paralyze the entire kingdom.
When commoners have no food, it often leads to riots. The problem of the feudal nobility is a significant challenge. After over two thousand years of tradition, change is not something that can occur overnight.
Women like Brigitte do not pose major issues; as long as Arthas is decisive, he can bring them into his harem. Their loyalty is unwavering and would be the best choice. Arthas was aware that many noble families faced ruin; their wives often fled with the children.
Claims of shared hardship are nonsense. Strength and power are paramount, while wealth is merely a material foundation; who has time to discuss love?
"Ah! Can I, can I do that?" Brigitte was not yet the great general of the Crusade from over a decade later, still a young maiden. There is no time limit for noble girls to marry; some marry as early as twelve, while others marry in their thirties or forties. It's not unheard of. With a comfortable life, many constraints are lifted. Commoners marry young not because they didn't want to raise their daughters for a long time, but to have wives to help out; that's all there is to it. (TN: Think author just googled random facts of old nobility irl and assumed wow followed those rules)
Arthas's hands rested on Brigitte's shoulders, squeezing them slightly, causing her to blush,
"Of course you can. I want to form my own army; I have an important mission to complete. It's not just to protect Lordaeron but also to protect this world."
Looking at Arthas's sincere eyes, Brigitte was swayed; she bit her lip, her expression conflicted. "I, I'm willing. But Your Highness, my father and brother are fighting against the Orcs, and I must defend my home; I can't follow you for now. When my father returns, I will surely follow in your footsteps!"
"I will personally speak with Alfred about this. I just wanted to hear your opinion, which is very important to me." Arthas looked at the beautiful girl in front of him, who was different from Calia's gentle and virtuous nature; she possessed a vibrant charm and was fair-skinned and beautiful—despite being a warrior, she retained a beauty akin to a maiden, which was quite astonishing.
"I am willing." Brigitte said, blushing, feeling attracted to Arthas.
Actually, Arthas was unaware that the presence of the Titan soul, Eonar, was within him. She was the Life Binder, allowing flowers to bloom simply by standing still, engendering a unique affection for the living.
Thus, anyone who saw him would feel no disgust; in contrast, the dead and undead would harbor strong aversion towards him due to his potent life essence. There are both advantages and disadvantages, but the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
"Then it's settled. Rest well, sleep soundly tonight; everything is on me." Arthas casually wrapped his arm around the young warrior, taking every opportunity to charm her and make her his companion, which would be a significant boon for him. A woman capable of fighting and independent could secure the rear, and he desperately needed that.
"Hmm." Brigitte unknowingly fell asleep on Arthas's shoulder. She even emitted soft snores as she was exhausted. The past two days had felt like a waking nightmare. The Naga suddenly launched a large-scale attack, civilians were continuously slaughtered, territories were repeatedly lost, and it nearly reached a point of inevitable death.
With the tension finally released, she grew very fatigued and naturally drifted into sleep, a form of self-preservation by the body. Observing the beautiful girl sleeping in his arms, Arthas shook his head helplessly, supporting her as he walked her back to her residence. Since the beauty was asleep, it was only natural to return her safely.
As the daughter of a great lord, Brigitte obviously had maids, and Arthas had no intention of taking advantage of her vulnerability; there was no need.