Chapter 78

Chapter 78

Why do you insist on forcing me to try all of these strange drinks made by the surface races? asked Hadix, lounging in a meticulously woven bed of webs as he stared skeptically at several bottles of wine that Krivax had brought for his visit.

Come on, what's wrong with trying new things every once in a while? Krivax asked encouragingly as he poured the wine into a glass and handed it to his mentor. I dont see what the problem is. If I had lived for as long as you have, I would savor every new experience that came my way.

It had been a while since hed actually met with Hadix, and Krivax was surprised to find how much hed missed the grouchy old nerubian. There werent many people who could look so disgruntled while being offered wine made by one of the most prestigious wineries in the Eastern Kingdoms.

Prior to making contact with the surface races, the only nerubians who had experienced the effects of alcohol were the Azjol-Nerubs alchemists. After all, nerubians generally werent interested in mind-altering substances unless they could somehow be used to increase efficiency.

However, that sort of cultural attitude really didnt sit well with the major breweries and wineries throughout the Eastern Kingdoms, many of which were surprisingly influential. Azjol-Nerub had the potential to be a truly massive market that they could exploit if they managed to create a drink palatable to the average nerubian.

As a result, Krivax often found himself being sent free samples of various alcoholic drinks by merchants across the Eastern Kingdoms. Krivax enjoyed trying them in his free time, despite the drinks needing specific alchemical ingredients if he wanted to get drunk. Unfortunately, most of them were less than stellar.

The Frost Lotus Infused Wine, sent by the Fallrook Estate from the Hillsbrad Foothills, used ingredients imported from Northrend and was by far the best hed ever tried.

His current objective was to find a wine that Hadix would like so he could get to see the normally severe Vizier drunk. Given how many serious matters he had to deal with on a day to day basis, Krivax had every intention of finding some fun where he could.The roots of this story extend from novell bìn origin.

Taking you on as an apprentice has given me all of the new experiences I need for three centuries, Hadix grumbled irritably as he twisted the wine glass to study it from every angle before finally taking a tentative sip.

Well? How is it? Krivax asked eagerly, putting aside the documents he was reading and turning his full attention to the Vizier.

One of the best parts about having enchanted parchment and quills that could fly and hide information from anyone not authorized to read them was the ability to get work done wherever he wanted. Whether he was lounging in his chamber, walking through the caverns of Azjol-Nerub, or visiting his injured mentor, Krivax could easily find an open space and start filling out documents.

Given that he didnt need to sleep and that the work coming his way seemed limitless at times, no matter how much he tried to delegate, that ability was priceless.

Although, looking back on it now, perhaps there was something else wrong if he needed to work all of the time.

Hadix swirled the wine in his glass, pausing for a moment as he seemed to ponder over the best words to describe the experience.

Its unexpectedly pleasant, Hadix admitted, a touch of surprise and nostalgia in his voice. The flavor is more subtle than those previous concoctions you had me try. It tastes like it was distilled with Luminous Dew, a plant which used to be harvested from the fungi farms deep within Azjol-Nerub when I was younger. I havent had anything like it in quite some time.

Krivax could see just how much Hadix enjoyed the drink and suddenly felt a bit guilty that he just wanted to see what the Vizier was like when he was drunk.

Not guilty enough to stop, however.

Im glad to hear that, Krivax said enthusiastically as he placed a bottle of wine on a floating tray near his resting place. Feel free to enjoy as much of it as you want. After all, I doubt youll have another chance like this to relax in the near future.

He was confident that was the case, as Hadix was the only person he knew who was more of a workaholic than himself. Hadix grumbled under his breath, but didnt refute Krivaxs words as he quietly poured himself another glass.

Seeing this, Krivax turned his attention back to the documents floating about him, diligently continuing his work. Many of them were responses and requests to various Alliance officials in regard to his Alliance Defense Force proposal, so they were actually quite important.

Krivax had wanted to call his organization the Adventurers' Guild at first, but most kingdoms seemed to have legal restrictions about what could and couldnt be called a Guild, any of which contradicted each other. His proposed organization didnt qualify with many of them, so it was simply less of a pain to choose a different name.

He also read through a report hed requested from his subordinates about the draenei and taurens integration into the rest of Azeroth. The former was progressing fairly well, with trade between Azjol-Nerub and the draenei increasing every day. Not only that, but connections between the draenei and the Church of the Holy Light were flourishing.

Given that the draenei had a naaru with them, which was basically the Azerothian version of a literal angel, that was no surprise.

However, the tauren were simply less technologically advanced compared to other societies and thus had much less to offer. Still, it was nice to read that they were no longer under active threat by the centaurs. The combination of the Primal encroaching on centaur land and a steady supply of weapons to tauren by Azjol-Nerub was enough to deter them.

Are you really so free of time that you can afford to waste it so frivolously? Vizier Hadix asked gruffly from the meticulously woven web he was currently lounging in. Theres truly no need for you to be here, brat.

I dont see anything wrong with spending a little bit of time with my favorite Vizier, especially when hes injured, Krivax said teasingly as he finished penning a letter to Anduin Lothar, current regent lord of Stormwind. Besides, Im perfectly capable of doing what work I need to do here and keeping you company at the same time.

Krivax was more than a little glad that Hadix had been told to avoid using magic as much as possible while recovering from his injuries. Otherwise, Krivax was sure that he would have had something telekinetically thrown at his head.

Hadix was of course more than willing to express his displeasure in other ways, but he hadnt actually forbidden Krivax from visiting, for all his grouching.

I hardly see the point. This is certainly not the first time that Ive been injured, said Hadix, huffing and tapping another sip of his wine.

Malygos had discreetly informed the Alliance that hed secured a path into Pandaria. As a result, everyone in the know was doing what they could to prepare themselves to fight undead in the near future.

Currently, he and Hadix were in the Dalarans nerubian enclave. Krivax felt like Hadix would be better served returning to Azjol-Nerub for medical treatment, but the old Vizier insisted on remaining in the Eastern Kingdoms. Apparently, this was a sensitive period of time in his efforts to root out the Void cults, and he wanted to be available in case any of his colleagues or subordinates required his expertise.

From everything that Krivax had seen, he was starting to get the feeling that Dalaran had just grown on Hadix. The Vizier who hed first met in Kilahkuk would have never passed up the opportunity to avoid interacting with the surface races, but things had obviously changed after he started working with the Kirin Tor.

Honestly, it was a surprise sometimes for him to go out into the streets of Dalaran and see just how nonchalant the locals had become about the giant spiders walking their streets. Seeing the results of his efforts might have even brought a tear to Krivaxs eyes if he had any tear ducts.

Well, even if you dont appreciate my wonderful company, it's very helpful for me to have free access to your expertise, Krivax said placatingly, though his words were completely the truth. After all, those of us who havent lived for centuries sometimes need help in order to accomplish their goals.

Hmph. It's gratifying to see that Ive taught you well enough to at least know that, Hadix drawled, voice still surprisingly composed despite drinking several glasses of wine. Then tell me, how is that little project of yours progressing?

Hadix was surprisingly approving of his plan to create a paramilitary force under the Alliance to address specific threats. Although, perhaps it shouldnt be that surprising given that the Vizier had spent centuries combating mind bending monsters for a secret organization. Hadix was very much a believer in proactively destroying threats with extreme impunity before they could become a problem.

Its a bit of a mixed bag to be honest, Krivax said hesitantly as he gave a brief sigh and read through a report on the growing piracy situation. Responses are positive for the most part, which was to be expected given that Azjol-Nerub will be the ones funding the program. The nations of the Eastern Kingdoms have no reason to oppose it when it costs them nothing. The kaldorei have shut down any proposals to join the Alliance, and are extremely reluctant to accept even associate status, which was also to be expected. Im working on it.

Now was probably the best time for Krivax to convince the kaldorei that they should work with the rest of Azeroth. While the Primals were proving to be an unfortunate distraction and drain on resources, they also gave Krivax a bit of leverage when speaking with the night elves.

After all, the Primals were primarily a problem for Kalimdor. If Azjol-Nerub were to withdraw military support from the efforts to contain the creatures, then the kaldorei would not be in a good place to handle it.

Of course, the Aspects wouldnt approve of this and the Primals would likely be able to spread if they overcame the night elves, but that didnt mean it wasnt still an effective threat. Although, it was a bit difficult wording a threat that was explicit enough to be understood and also subtle enough not to overly anger the kaldorei.

Elvish pride was a delicate thing, often pushing them into doing things that were counterproductive if they felt slighted.

However, Krivax had decided that it would be best to push the night elves after the Alliance had already formed the organization, as that would give him much more leverage.

None of that was unanticipated. So long as I continue as planned, the Alliance should agree to form the Alliance Defense Force and allow a nerubian leader, Krivax continued as he shuffled through his notes, searching for a particular letter. At least, thats what should be happening. In reality, Im receiving a surprising amount of excuses and complaints, most of which seem to be coming from factions affiliated with QuelThalas.

Krivax handed over an unofficial letter hed received from Count Dalton of the Alterac Kingdom. After King Perenolde made up an obvious excuse to delay his acceptance of the Alliance Defense Force, Krivax contacted one of his few acquaintances in the kingdom to learn more.

Apparently, the only noble family in the kingdom whod been allowed the privilege of trading with QuelThalas was pushing for the king to refuse his proposal. It had been clear for a while that the high elves were beginning to actually take notice of events beyond their borders and make use of their influence, but this wasnt how hed hoped things would develop.

Oh? How surprising. I hadnt expected those foolish elves to actually do something competent, said Hadix, sounding impressed as he read the letter in one hand and poured himself another glass of wine with one of his others.

Competent? All theyre doing is making my life more difficult, Krivax replied, unable to keep the offense from his voice. The Alliance Defense Force will help QuelThalas just as much as everyone else, so why are they trying to stop it? I thought theyd already learned after the Second War that they cant afford to ignore the threats of the outside world!

It was honestly baffling to Krivax that the high elves were working against him when he was just trying to help everyone. The whole point of ensuring that the Horde didnt reform was so that Azeroth wouldnt have unnecessary political divisions while also dealing with existential threats, but it seemed like things werent going to be that easy.

However, the most frustrating thing about the whole situation was that he didnt really know the motivations behind it. QuelThalas had always been an insular and closed off kingdom, allowing entrance to only a few merchants while their citizens rarely left their cities.

Krivax knew quite a bit about the high elves, but most of that was due to either meta-knowledge or the benefits of his position. For the average human walking the streets of Capital City, QuelThalas might as well be a mythical land from fairy tales. While this was slowly beginning to change, it meant that elvish internal politics were utterly opaque to anyone living outside of the city.

For all he knew, King Anastarian could have been overthrown in a coup, or Silvermoon could have secretly been taken over by a Dreadlord. Prince Kaelthas hadnt returned to Dalaran in months and wasnt answering any letters, so there was no way for him to know.

Be it the gaunt face of a beggar, the persistent cough of a diseased peasant, or the distant cry of a hungry hatchling, Hadix had never seen a nation that could match Azjol-Nerub in prosperity.

Silvermoon seemed different.

Not only that, but he could sense that every single civilian could potentially learn magic.

This only heightened Hadixs unease as he began to worry that QuelThalas may actually have the ability to become a true competitor to Azjol-Nerub. What they lacked in sheer numbers and resources could potentially be compensated for by the Sunwell and a powerful populace.

Notably, however, the thread of tension that Hadix could see in the Spellbreakers was non-existent among the elvish civilians. If Quelthalas was indeed suffering from internal instability, then its people seemed ignorant of it.

Eventually, the Magistrix led them to a grand building larger than a nerubian ziggurat and surrounded by seven towers reaching high into the sky. The structure had clearly been constructed with the intention of displaying power and influence, as it seemed to loom over the surrounding buildings and was rather grandiose in design.

However, Hadix paid little attention to this and instead noted its many defenses, as that was what was truly important.

Its large, ornate doors were guarded by two golems and several elite Spellbreakers who were stationed at its entrance. Although he couldnt see them, Hadix could sense several elvish archers camouflaged in strategic positions on the towers. He could even sense someone flying through the air under the cover of an invisibility enchantment, most likely a dragonhawk rider.

Hadix couldnt help but approve. If this was the center of decision making in QuelThalas, then it was wise of the elves to protect it as much as possible.

The Magistrix led them into the structure, past the Spellbreakers who watched them with stoic expressions. The interior was just as grand as its exterior, with wide and resplendent halls, tapestries, and various other elvish fopperies that Hadix didnt care about.

What was far more interesting was the angry elvish woman who began storming toward them the moment they entered. The woman was one of the few of her kind who showed any signs of aging, and it was clear from her manner of dress that she was of high station.

Hadix was almost disappointed when Magistrix Evermind merely gestured to the furious elf and a Spellbreaker broke away from the delegation to calmly, but forcefully lead her away.

Is everything alright? asked Krivax, confusion evident in his voice as he watched the strange scene. Have we done something to offend your people, Magistrix?

A hint of annoyance flashed through Everminds expression before disappearing. Not at all, Ambassador. There have simply been some political disagreements within the Convocation which Lady Elionara is very passionate about. It is nothing that you need to be concerned about.

Hadix didnt believe a word of that and made a mental note to investigate the grievances of Lady Elionara at a later time. He could tell that Krivax also shared his suspicions, but there was little they could do.

Understood, Krivax replied diplomatically, keeping any doubt out of his voice.

Magistrix Evermind nodded and led them further into the building. The hallway gave way to a grand chamber with an arched ceiling adorned with elvish motifs and a large, circular table in the center surrounded by seven overly intricate chairs, six of which were empty.

Sitting at the head of the table was an elven man clad in robes of deep purple who could only be Grand Magister Belovir.

His presence commanded immediate attention, the air around him charged with a subtle aura of magic that even most Viziers would find imposing. Much like Lady Elionara, the Grand Magister was one of the few elves that showed signs of age with bits of gray in his brown hair and slightly weathered skin, though his eyes held an intelligence that made clear he was not to be underestimated.

Hadix was not a person who easily impressed, but there was an imperceptible quality about the elf in front of him that put him on edge. If the six empty seats of the absent elvish lords werent already clue enough, Hadix would have quickly realized that Grand Magister Belovir was a very dangerous individual.

Welcome, Ambassador Krivax of Azjol-Nerub, to Silvermoon City, the Grand Magister greeted, rising from his seat to offer a courteous but distant bow. I was quite glad to receive your request to visit our city. A meeting like this between our nations was quite overdue.

There had been communications between Azjol-Nerub and Quel'Thalas for quite some time, of course, but this was the highest-ranking diplomatic encounter theyd had so far after the Second War, and the first on their own soil.

Indeed, Grand Magister Belovir, Krivax responded, returning the bow with practiced ease. It is a pleasure to see you again. We havent had the chance to speak since our last encounter in Capital City.

Quite. If my recollection is correct, you were quite different at the time, said the Grand Magister, gesturing toward the piles of enchanted cushions near the desk. Much like the kingdom you serve, youve elevated yourself at a speed that has left many surprised, Ambassador. Forgive me for the inconvenience, but we could not find a seat appropriate for someone of your stature.

The next few minutes were dull as Hadix quietly listened to his apprentice and the Grand Magister exchange the obligatory pleasantries. There was a moment when Belovir attempted to pull Hadix into conversation, offering him compliments about the duel he had in Dalaran against that pitiful elf, but he politely deflected.

Hadixs role here was simply as an observer; one who could notice the smaller details that Krivax might not. His apprentice had earned his position as Azjol-Nerubs head ambassador, and Hadix would not infringe on it unnecessarily.

Fortunately, Belovir seemed like a person who also disliked tedious formalities and they soon moved on to the topic at hand.

The Alliance Defense Force seems like quite an interesting proposal, Ambassador, said Grand Magister Belovir with what sounded like genuine approval. A paramilitary organization made up of powerful individuals and augmented by the diverse resources of the various member nations of the Alliance. One with the mandate to identify and confront threats to the safety of our peoples. An organization like that would certainly be of great use.

Thank you, Grand Magister. I think so as well, said Krivax after a moment of hesitation. Then can Azjol-Nerub expect your nations support once we present this proposal to the Alliance?

Hadix didnt blame Krivax for his confusion. It was a sentiment that they shared.

Grand Magister Belovir smiled thinly as he responded. You can. In fact, QuelThalas approves of this initiative so much that we intend to assist Azjol-Nerub in its funding and management. I already have several Magisters eager to offer their services.

Ah. Now I see.

The elves didnt want to block Krivaxs proposal. They wished to take it over and make it their own.

So long as Azjol-Nerub was the only nation funding the Alliance Defense Force, it was only natural that they would be able to have overwhelming control over it. Now that Quelthalas had shown an intent to expand their influence beyond their borders, they would naturally seek to control such a potentially powerful organization.

QuelThalas lacked the influence to do so now, but Hadix had no doubt that the Grand Magister would eventually propose that an elf should lead the Alliance Defense Force. If that was to become the case, then Azjol-Nerub would be forced to hand over the fruits of its resources and labor to a rival nation.

Your willingness to assist us is very generous, Grand Magister, but it is unnecessary, said Krivax, obviously choosing his words carefully. Azjol-Nerub had already allocated sufficient resources to this project. While we appreciate your offer, we would not wish to impose an unnecessary burden on your people.

The Grand Magister paused for several moments as he assessed Krivax. After a while, he let out a soft chuckle before speaking. Unfortunately, Ill have to insist. I have a belief that QuelThalas is duty bound to protect and shepherd those who cannot do so themselves. This initiative offers us the perfect opportunity to exercise that duty, and Id be remiss to not take advantage of it.

Once Belovir finished speaking, Hadix suddenly realized what quality about the elf bothered him so much. It was hidden very thoroughly, but he could sense a deep conviction in the old elfs words that reminded him of the zealotry Hadix often encountered in Void cultists. It was quite telling that the Grand Magister had used the word shepherd rather than lead when speaking of his peoples role.

When the Grand Magister spoke, it was with a surety of purpose and a desire for control that Hadix found troubling. He had a feeling that Azjol-Nerub and QuelThalas would be conflicting much more in the near future.

Hadix turned his attention to his apprentice and saw that he seemed quite uncomfortable. It was unlikely that Krivax could discern the Grand Magisters true nature, but the brat generally had good instincts. Hadix suspected that Krivax would start complaining that the elf was creepy as soon as they were able to speak privately.

Krivax made an admirable attempt at convincing the Grand Magister away from interfering with the Alliance Defense Force, but it was a hopeless endeavor. Belovir eventually bluntly stated that QuelThalas would use its influence to ensure that the initiative would not move forward unless they were allowed to contribute and were granted certain privileges.

Faced with such an ultimatum, Krivax had no other choice but to capitulate, though not before receiving a concession that QuelThalas would assist in having the proposal ratified by the Alliance as quickly as possible.

Hadix knew that Krivax wanted the organization formed in time to confront the Lich King.

Splendid, said Grand Magister Belovir, his eyes glinting with a hint of triumph as he leaned forward. With our two nations in agreement, Im certain the Alliance Defense Force will be officially formed within the next few weeks. I must say, Ambassador Krivax, Im truly glad that we were able to meet today. Ive been keeping quite a keen eye on you recently, so this has been a pleasant opportunity.

Really? said Krivax, distinctly unnerved by the elf. That is flattering, Grand Magister. May I inquire as to the reason?

From what I understand, youve risen rapidly in your nation's hierarchy while also being largely responsible for its current diplomatic successes, said Grand Magister Belovir, his gaze assessing as he stared at Krivax. Youve received the favor and blessing of one of the most powerful entities on Azeroth, and continue to expand Azjol-Nerubs influence across the world. I have found your actions to be quite inspiring. If only you had been born in QuelThalas

The Grand Magister trailed off with clear regret.

Krivax shifted in discomfort before responding. Thank you, Grand Magister. I am honored by your words and look forward to our future cooperation. If there is nothing else, then I believe we have discussed all necessary matters for the day.

Ah, there is just one more thing, said Grand Magister Belovir, standing from his seat. I intend to send my student, Magister Rommath, to represent QuelThalas in the Alliance Defense Force. I believe it would be best if he spent some time away from his regular duties, and I believe this is the best opportunity to do so.

Hadix remembered that name. Rommath was the mage sent by QuelThalas to assist in recovering the Dragon Soul from Chogall. From what he could recall, Rommath seemed to be very close to Prince Kaelthas and a powerful archmage in his own right. If nothing else he was far from an unworthy candidate.

Most importantly, he would be a perfect source of information to understand the current political situation in QuelThalas.

Hadix dearly hoped that whatever folly had overcome the elves was manageable. After all, it would be truly troublesome if the struggle for influence between Azjol-Nerub and QuelThalas continued to escalate.