Chapter 65

Chapter 65

As soon as the sun rose over Auberdine, General Feathermoon and her sentinels brought them out of their lodgings and prepared to escort them to the night elf capital. Their journey was a fairly long one so they were forced to leave early in the morning, and the night elves very reluctantly provided sabercat mounts for the non-nerubians. Krivax couldnt help but laugh as he watched some of the less adventurous diplomats attempt to get on the back of a giant sabertooth tiger.

Captain Ymit and most of the nerubians decided to stay back on the Waterstrider, the only exception being Krivaxs personal guard.

The journey to Nighthaven was filled with beautiful sights and gave Krivax and the other representatives a good look at how the kaldorei lived in harmony with nature.

The kaldorei roads were made of stone and were illuminated by strange structures that looked like small trees with a crown that housed dancing glowing lights among their leaves. As they traveled deeper into the woods on the way to Nighthaven, the trees began to stretch hundreds of feet into the air and Krivax started noticing wisps in the corner of his vision. They even passed by a tribe of furbolg, a race of hulking bear people who were allies of the night elves and lived peacefully within their territory.

In the far distance, they could see the World Tree Nordrassil stretching high up into the sky as it sat atop the summit of Mount Hyjal. The World Tree was one of the most sacred locations among the kaldorei and was responsible for granting the night elves their immortality. Krivax wished that their group could travel closer to Mount Hyjal, but the night elf capital was suited further north and it was unlikely that they would grant them the chance to sightsee.

It was all very surreal, and the group soon started to act more like awe-struck tourists than important diplomats. Everyone gasped with marvel once they reached the verdant vale which housed the kaldorei capital city of Nighthaven. The vale was called Moonglade, and it was just as beautiful as Krivax had expected.

A soft luminescence filled the air reminding Krivax of the Emerald Dream. The vale was surrounded by lush forests with large, elegant trees serving as natural barriers. Their massive trunks were wrapped in iridescent vines that glowed with the same light as the wisps. A massive lake, one which Eranikus identified as Lake Eluneara, could be found in the center of Moonglade, and its water looked more pure than any that Krivax had ever seen.

Its quite beautiful, isnt it? asked Eranikus as he gazed upon the Moonglade with appreciation. The kaldorei have been good caretakers of these lands. The vale has never been defiled by the hands of uncaring mortals or corruptive magic. The Moonglades reflection within the Emerald Dream is the most sacred place in the entire realm.

The kaldorei are certainly impressive, Veressa murmured quietly.

These trees are way too big, said Trixie, staring up at the canopy. If I didnt have my goggles, I wouldnt be able to see the top of them!

Krivax briefly considered what the world must look like from a gnomes perspective and decided he didnt like the image.

Your awe is understandable, but we must keep moving, said General Feathermoon from atop her sabercat. She and the other sentinels looked somewhat smug, but quickly got them moving again after allowing them a short break to take in the scenery. Many of the important priestesses of the Sisterhood have gathered to handle your affairs in a timely manner. It would not be appropriate to keep them waiting.

Krivax had the distinct feeling that the night elves wanted them to conclude their business and get moving out of their territory as quickly as possible. He very much doubted that a long-lived species like them would have handled diplomatic affairs with this much alacrity under normal circumstances.

From what he could tell, there was very little chance that the kaldorei would permit permanent embassies anywhere close to Nighthaven.

A little bit further along the path, they got their first look at Nighthaven, which was much larger than Krivax remembered it being in the game. Built on the other side of Lake Eluneara, Nighthaven was a city designed to blend in seamlessly with nature. Each of its buildings was constructed in a way that meshed with the surrounding woods. From his vantage point, Krivax could see people moving about their daily routines and once again noted that they were almost all female night elves.

What a strange society

The civilians were both wary and curious about them once they entered the city, but their sentinel escorts prevented anyone from approaching. They were quickly taken to another inn that would provide temporary lodgings before they all met with the Sisterhood of Elune.

You will stay here until we arrange for a meeting with the Priestesses, General Feathermoon informed them firmly. You may explore the city so long as you are escorted by one of our Sentinels. I strongly suggest that you do nothing to disrespect these lands or our people while you are here, or you might not like the outcome.

After Krivax reassured the general that they would all be on their best behavior, they were quickly shown to their lodgings. Their rooms were comfortable and offered a magnificent view of the verdant surroundings and the serene Lake Eluneara. Many small fishing boats could be seen gliding along the lakes surface, further adding to the peaceful picture. The trip from Auberdine to Nighthaven had been a long one, so everyone was glad for the opportunity to relax.

Unfortunately for Krivax, he only had enough time to try out a few night elf dishes before he was informed that High Priestess Tyrande was waiting to meet with him. Things were moving far quicker than Krivax expected, and he couldnt help but feel a bit unnerved. However, meeting important figures and talking about politics was most of Krivaxs job nowadays, so he quickly pushed away his nerves and followed the escort toward the Temple of Elune.

The temple was located on the highest hill in the city, overlooking the whole valley. It was built in a distinctly different architectural style than the rest of the city and reminded him of the ancient kaldorei ruins in Northrend. Unlike the sloped roof buildings of Nighthaven, the Temple of Elune was adorned with grand columns, a domed ceiling inlaid with shimmering moonstones, and was constructed from a material that resembled marble.

A giant statue of a night elf priestess reverently holding a bowl to the heavens had been placed in the temples courtyard. A beam of moonlight descended directly into the bowl, giving the appearance that the statue had been blessed by Elune herself.

Krivax wondered about the history of the temple and its unique design. Once he made it into the temple proper, Krivax was quickly confronted by the sight of armed and heavily armored sentinels guarding every section of the building. They likely knew he had the potential to be very dangerous even without weapons, and were taking the appropriate precautions.

Krivax honestly felt it was a bit unnecessary, as he doubted that he could seriously harm Tyrande Whisperwind even if he tried. Elune was an entity fully qualified to be considered a goddess, and her High Priestess was no slouch.

Krivax was quickly ushered through a series of hallways until he finally reached his destination, an open chamber. In the center of the room was the leader of the most powerful nation on Kalimdor sitting behind a marble table shaped like a crescent moon. High Priestess Tyrande Whisperwind had lived for over ten thousand years, was a central figure in the War of the Ancients, and had been a ruler for longer than the existence of many nations on Azeroth.

Before he could say anything, the High Priestess turned to the guards stationed around the room and immediately dismissed them. Leave us. The Ambassador and I have matters to discuss that are not for the ears of others.

But High Prieste

I will not repeat myself, Tyrande interrupted with a voice that left no room for protest. I am more than capable of protecting myself.

The sentinels looked hesitant but quickly bowed to their High Priestess and left the room. A few moments later, the doors closed with a resounding thud that echoed through the chamber, leaving Krivax alone with the High Priestess.

Its an honor, High Priestess. I am Vizier Krivax of Azjol-Nerub, and I have come with the intention of establishing diplomatic contact between our two people, Krivax bowed to Tyrande respectfully.

Greetings Ambassador. It has been long since the kaldorei have engaged in diplomatic contact with outsiders, but I am hopeful our people can have a fruitful relationship, said Tyrande, nodding regally in his direction. Especially when the diplomat they send is one who has the Aspects approval and is blessed by the Dragon Queen herself. However, we should wait before we begin addressing important matters. Someone else will be joining us shortly.

Before Krivax could ask who, he sensed a flurry of Life energy suddenly emerge in the center of the chamber. Turning his gaze to the source of the disturbance, Krivax saw a patch of swirling green mist forming in the heart of the room. Within moments, the mist had solidified and burst into a dazzling emerald glow, from which emerged a familiar figure.

Greetings, Vizier Krivax, said Cenarius as he stepped out of the mist. I apologize for not being present when you arrived, but I had several matters to attend to within the Emerald Dream.

I understand, Lord Cenarius. Im sure that there are many things that demand your attention, Krivax said honestly. Cenarius had made it clear that he intended to join this meeting, so he wasnt particularly surprised to see the demigod.

Cenarius smiled faintly and nodded respectfully to Tyrande. It is good to see you as well, Tyrande. Thank you for allowing me to attend this meeting.

You will always be welcome here, Lord Cenarius, said Tyrande, with a slight softening of her otherwise composed demeanor. Will Malfurion be joining us?

Cenarius shook his head before his expression became sympathetic No, he will not. Malfurion is currently attending to his duties within the Dream, but he sends his well-wishes.

Tyrandes lips pressed together in a thin line, but she nodded in understanding before turning her attention back to Krivax. Very well. Then let us begin.

If you wouldnt mind, I would like to address a few diplomatic matters between Azjol-Nerub and the kaldorei before we address everything else, said Krivax.

He had no doubt that they would have to talk about the Aspects, Azeroths future, and his prophetic knowledge, but he was still here primarily as Azjol-Nerubs diplomat.

I see no reason why not, Tyrande said, her eyes scanning Krivax. Then I will allow you to begin. What is it that Azjol-Nerub wishes from the kaldorei?

As he and Tyrande prepared to talk about diplomacy between their two nations, Cenarius moved to an unoccupied portion of the chamber and made himself comfortable. Since arriving on Kalimdor, Krivax had gotten the impression that he and Ysera were rather disconnected from the workings of kaldorei society, but the specific details escaped him.

Krivax took a deep breath and nodded, arranging his thoughts before beginning. Azjol-Nerub wishes to establish an outpost within the Silithus Desert to properly surveil AhnQiraj. We view the qiraji as a potential threat to our kingdom and would like to set up early warning systems, as well as be in a position to respond rapidly if the need arises.

The kaldorei are more than capable of monitoring AhnQiraj and have been since we pushed them back into their city, Tyrande pointed out calmly, though her eyes held a steel-like hardness to them. Why should we allow a foreign power to establish a presence in Silithus, especially one with such a close relationship to the qiraji? There are many among my people who say that you are not to be trusted and that your assistance is unnecessary, or at worst actively harmful.

But you know that to be wrong, Krivax immediately countered. The qiraji are going to begin stirring within the next two decades. When that happens, are you sure that you want to push them back alone?

The Dragonflights have committed themselves to fighting AhnQiraj when the time comes. Do you truly believe that your aid is necessary? Tyrande raised an eyebrow, her gaze unwavering.

Azjol-Nerubs forces might not be necessary, but they would be extremely helpful. We more than any other nation are prepared to face the endless swarms of the qiraji, who have doubtlessly prepared their forces since their imprisonment specifically to fight your people and the Dragonflights, Krivax said confidently, knowing his words to be the truth. It would be foolish to deny our assistance out of distrust. Ysera has almost certainly informed you of how we fought against the Horde and turned away from the Old Gods.

Tyrande remained silent for several moments before she finally responded. I should make it clear to you, nerubian, that while I find myself agreeing with your arguments, there are many among my people who would not look kindly on your people. Fandral Staghelm most of all will oppose your request. Your similarities to the qiraji themselves are obvious and thus I find myself seeking a compromise.

Very well. I will help escort the tauren away from the centaur and to a safe location.

For the first time since hed met her, Krivax saw Tyrande smile. It was a pleasant sight, and he had the impression that it didnt happen very often.

Thank you, Vizier Krivax. I will not forget this.

Slightly flustered by the High Priestess earnesty, he turned the conversation back to more mundane diplomatic matters. For the rest of the meeting, the two of them discussed subjects such as the potential for trade, permanent ambassadors, and the creation of a kaldorei to nerubian dictionary. Tyrande also asked several questions about his visions, especially in regard to Illidan Stormrage and the future of her people. That conversation was very similar to the one he had with Cenarius, and most involved him repeating information that he had already shared.

By the time he left, Krivax had developed a good deal of respect for the High Priestess. She seemed unfailingly dedicated to the betterment of her people and seemed like a good ruler overall.

But more than anything, Krivax felt a sense of excitement growing within him. He hadnt had the opportunity to fully flex his newfound power, and this impending mission to help the tauren seemed like the perfect opportunity.

Malygos was expressionless as he watched the scene being displayed in his personal scrying mirror.

It had taken some effort to develop a spell capable of scrying Korialstrasz while he was on Draenor, but the connection between the two worlds maintained by the Dark Portal was strong enough for him to exploit. It had become even easier after Medivh had been successfully resurrected and shared his knowledge of the Twisting Nether.

Malygos had already learned many useful things from the mortal, and he intended to make great use of his newfound knowledge. Especially now that Korialstrasz had successfully discovered the location of the draenei and initiated contact with them.

The draenei are quite the interesting species, dont you think?

Malygos snarled in annoyance as he turned to Nozdormu, who had brazenly appeared within his personal lair in his mortal form without invitation. He had tried everything he could think of over the years to ward against his brothers chronomancy, but attempting to best an Aspect in their own domain was an endeavor doomed to failure.

What do you want, Nozdormu? You appearing before me is never a good sign. What catastrophe are you here to prevent this time?

Malygos was somewhat surprised when Nozdormu immediately denied his accusation. There are no such catastrophes this time, brother. I merely wish to talk with you about a few matters. So tell me, how do you feel about these draenei? They are quite impressive, no?

Malygos knew his skepticism must be obvious as he studied Nozdormu, but his brother merely smiled placidly up at him as he waited for an answer. With a scoff, Malyogs decided that attempting to guess Nozdormus true intentions wasnt worth the effort and turned his attention back to the mirror.

Korialstrasz was currently meeting with the leader of the draenei, the one they referred to as Prophet Velen. The being was just as rooted in the Light as the nerubian had claimed, and Malygos could practically see the power emanating from Velen from across the scrying spell.

It was hard to believe that he was looking at an individual who was once the contemporary of the most powerful demons in the Burning Legion, below only Sargeras himself. Malygos had never met Kiljaeden nor Archimonde, but he had grown very familiar with their names during the War of the Ancients.

I suppose the draenei are more impressive than most, Malygos admitted idly. Its not every race that is capable of constructing a vessel capable of traveling through the Twisting Nether after all.

Or one capable of evading the Burning Legion for so long, said Nozdormu, nodding in agreement. Your plans to bring them to Azeroth as quickly as possible is a wise one. The Burning Legion cannot be allowed to capture them.

Malygos glared at his brother. Is that supposed to be some manner of hidden message? If your designs for the future include me taking some specific action regarding the draenei, then just say so. Your ceaseless manipulations annoy me.

This is not one of my manipulations. You know that my sight extends only to Azeroth, so I could not say what would happen to the draenei even if I wanted to, said Nozdormu.

Even then, you should still be able to see the moment that they arrive on Azeroth, Malygos immediately countered.

Such predictions are unreliable, said Nozdormu, a hint of discomfort flashing through his eyes. Especially recently.

Malygos had known that Nozdormu was having difficulty with the Infinite Dragonflight, but the worry in his brothers eyes implied the situation was worse than he expected. Is that why youve come here? You no longer trust what youve seen of the future and wish to verify matters with your own eyes?

Nozdormus silence was enough for Malygos to know that he had guessed correctly.

Tell me then, what has happened with the Infinite Dragonflight? Malyos asked curiously. If the Bronze Dragonflight was having a difficult time handling their counterparts, then things could become very bad.

The main advantage that he and the other Aspects had over their enemies was a superiority in information. This advantage obviously didnt exist against Nozdormus corrupted future self.

Theyve become far more active than they once were after our discussion with Krivax, Nozdormu admitted reluctantly. As you know, they already managed to steal the Hammer of Khazgoroth and theyve attempted to kill important future figures multiple times. My Flight has managed to achieve several important victories against them, but I find myself uneasy.

Malygos studied his brother and could immediately tell that Nozdormus worries were unfeigned. He wasnt quite sure how to handle it, as it had been a very long time since he had tried to comfort anyone. Thankfully, he was interrupted when Prophet Velen agreed to Korialstraszs proposal to relocate the draenei and their vessel to Azeroth.

That was much faster than expected. The Light must have given him a vision if he acted so decisively

Malygos dearly wished he lived in a universe without seers or chronomancy. Such people were nearly as troublesome as necromancers in his opinion.

Ah, that is good. Im glad to see that this at least has happened according to my predictions, said Nozdormu, obviously relieved.

Are there any other focal points that you are concerned about? Malygos asked curiously. If so, then it is important that you share them with me.

Nozdormu was silent for several moments as he considered the matter before responding with a question of his own. Have you made any progress in your studies of the mists surrounding Pandaria? They are quite effective in blocking the sight of my Flight. Theres a significant risk that someone will use those lands to plan something we cannot foresee.

Malygos had already considered the possibility from the moment the little prophet had told them about Pandaria. The mists remain stubborn, but I doubt the risk is as great as you believe. If we cannot pierce the mists, then it will not be so simple for the Burning Legion or the Old Gods to do so either.

Malygos intended to continue making the effort, but he had many other matters that demanded his attention. Unsurprisingly, Nozdormu didnt seem particularly pleased with his answer. His brother had never liked it when his foresight became unreliable, and there were many powerful forces with an interest in blinding him.

I hope that you are correct, Nozdormu said after a moment of silence. Given Legions history with the draenei, it is likely that they will take action once we successfully bring them to Azeroth. We are far more prepared than we would have been without the aid of Krivax, but our enemies are not fools. I, more than anyone, know the unpredictable consequences of changing fate.

Before he could respond, Nozdormu disappeared from his lair in a swirl of sand. With an annoyed grimace, Malygos banished the sand and tried not to think too much about his brothers words. He had learned long ago that the best way to deal with Nozdormu was to not give much mind to his ominous proclamations.

Instead, he gave one last look at his scrying mirror before ending the spell and disappeared from his lair in a flash of violet light. When he reappeared, Malygos was flying above an open field in the Borean Tundra which contained one of the largest ritual sites that he had ever constructed. The entire area was heavily warded against all intruders and the only individual present was Medivh, who was studying the arcane glyphs with open fascination.

The mage had recovered well despite being recently dead, but Malygos was not very surprised. The souls of powerful magic users were remarkably durable, and the mortal had done well to maintain his sense of self.

You truly are worthy of your title, Aspect of Magic, Medivh commented, his gaze still on the intricate web of glyphs and energy lines laid out on the field. To learn from what Ive told you about the Dark Portal so quickly to create this. It is impressive.

Malygos didnt feel any particular pride at the mortal's words. To say that he was impressive was simply an obvious statement of fact.

How long then until the ritual is ready to be cast, mortal? Malygos asked as he landed next to Medivh. The draenei have agreed to Korialstraszs proposal, so I intend to cast the spell as soon as it is ready.

Soon, said Medivh. There are a few adjustments that must be made for the purposes of safety. While it might be a simple matter to teleport someone from one location to another, it is an entirely different matter when you wish to teleport so many individuals between worlds using the link created by the Dark Portal.

Malygos knew that of course. Much like scrying Korialstrasz, the ritual he intended to perform was only possible thanks to the Dark Portal. Otherwise, teleporting the draenei directly to Azeroth would involve safely pulling them through the Twisting Nether, something currently beyond even his abilities.

Even this was rather dangerous, but it was the best option given the circumstances. The Burning Legion was searching extensively for the draenei, and there was no safe way to transport them from Draenor to Azeroth. It was too dangerous to attempt to evacuate the draenei through the Dark Portal itself, with the demons and hostile natives lurking about. The knowledge that the draenei possessed about the Legion was far more important than anything else on that doomed world, so Malygos felt this was worth the effort.

As Nozdormu said, there was some risk that the Burning Legion would react forcefully to this, but he was prepared for this as well. The best case scenario would be if Kiljaeden sent the Lich King to Azeroth out of anger, only for it to be immediately found by the Aspects.

Very well then. Continue your work, mortal, Malygos said, taking a moment to observe the vast circle of magic again before teleporting away.

There were several other projects that he needed to inspect, and then Malygos would perhaps return to the Nexus and visit the recently hatched whelps. After all, he had a feeling that he would soon be too busy to spend much time with the next generation of Blue Dragonflight.