Hello again! This work probably won't update as quickly as Red Crane did (which was about once a week) but my goal is to continue a regular cadence with this fic as well.
Huge thank you to JThorsten over on Tumblr for providing enabling, editing, giving great critique and encouragement! THANK YOU.
This work is a direct sequel to Blessing of the Red Crane and will make the most sense if you read that first.
Lady Jaina Proudmoore, Grand Magus of the Kirin Tor, stared at the document folio on her desk. She knew the contents well; she'd written most of them. Additional information had been added in more recent days by Archmage Modera and, to her surprise, Archmage Karlain. Khadgar had sent a single page from Draenor, badly smudged by dirt and perhaps other things Jaina didn't wish to contemplate.
Despite the presence of whatever still pungently lingered on Khadgar's contribution, the report looked harmless. But she knew there was a possibility it could rip her city apart.
She had run the numbers again. Kalec had checked her work with serious eyes and agreed. Modera had run her own logistical analysis - and a few besides which she'd only shared with Jaina thus far. The correct course for the city was laid out in clear, concise tables and graphs.
Other members of the Council of Six had been reviewing her data and the updates for more than a week. Khadgar's update had been the most recent addition almost four days ago. She'd asked for, and had been given, time and space for Theramore's memorial. It had allowed her to get some distance and process all she felt, but it had also been to give space to those who would surely be offended by what she was bringing up for discussion.
Vereesa was offended and angry. She wouldn't be the only one. Jaina expected the entirety of the Silver Covenant would be displeased they were even discussing the issue.
There were rumors in the city. No one knew precisely what the council was going to be meeting about. At least as far as Jaina was aware. Yet everyone knew something important was going to be discussed soon. Wild speculation was beginning to spread. Khadgar had arrived via portal the previous evening, looking every year his physical age. His late night arrival only served to spin the rumor mill into new heights.
Modera was taking over, some said. Others said Khadgar was going to step in as leader. The city was going to be moved closer to Stormwind, or it was going to be moved over the Nexus. Some of their suggestions might have been funny if she'd been a little less anxious about the outcome. The most outlandish was the suggestion she and Kalec were both going to wed Varian as some sort of Mage-Dragon-Alliance power play. The dragon had found it hilarious and commented on how very pretty he thought Varian's hair and eyes were. Jaina had hit him with a throw pillow.
A few people were correct about what the council was actually going to discuss; reintegrating Horde mages into the city.
Jaina didn't want to, but she knew she had to do so. The numbers were clear. Unless Dalaran returned to somewhere near the population they'd hosted before the Purge, the city would fall into a downward spiral of economics and population loss it would be nearly impossible to recover from. More, a power vacuum among the mages would give ample opportunity for another more neutral city to rise, accelerating Dalaran's death.
It would also be another powerful statement in support of Anduin's still-forming plans to get both sides talking armistice. Peace wouldn't come for a while but there was an opportunity to talk and to start down that road once more. Greater dangers lurked in the darkness beyond Azeroth. Jaina shivered, goose flesh erupting over her arms. The Legion was out there.
A knock interrupted her thoughts. "Yes?"
Archmage Modera entered the room, wearing her battle leathers like a second skin. The older mage was someone Jaina had always respected for her power and prowess, but she'd recently also become a teacher and perhaps even a friend. Modera leaned against the wall, crossing her arms. "Ready?"
"I have to be," Jaina said, sweeping the files and folios off her desk. She held them as she rose, gesturing her office lights off. "You?"
Modera patted a scroll case. She fell into step with Jaina as the two walked. "So I hear not only are you and Kalecgos are both involved in a torrid love affair with the King of Stormwind, but Prince Anduin is being married off to Queen Moira to secure the dwarves in this new power play by the Alliance."
"What?" Jaina groaned pinched the bridge of her nose.
Modera kept a straight face as she spoke but her eyes glittered. "I know, I know, it's insane. Clearly Anduin will be wed to Princess Tess to keep Gilneas around."
Jaina pointed a finger at her. "Don't! He's got enough to deal with without people adding more rumors. I can take absurd speculation, but please leave Anduin out of it." She was more sharp than she'd intended to be.
Modera arched an eyebrow and held up a hand. "Of course." After another few steps she said, "I was simply trying to lighten the mood."
"I know. I didn't mean to snap."
"I understand. He's family and he's still a minor. For now." She gave Jaina a direct look.
The Grand Magus met her eyes for a moment then focused on the hall ahead. "I know." He was growing into a fine young man and was almost of age. Not that the speculation hadn't started before he'd been born. Varian had done much to try to shield his son from feeling like prized breeding stock, and Jaina had tried her best to help. "He'll have to learn how to handle it. He already is learning. But I can help hold some of it off him."
Modera made a pensive noise, something haunted in her eyes. Then the look was gone, fast enough Jaina wasn't certain she'd even seen it.
They stepped into the Chamber of Air and were shortly joined by the other members of the Council of Six, the ruling body of Dalaran.
Archmage Karlain was a human with dark hair cut short so as not to interfere in his work. He was a master alchemist who usually wore a severe expression that matched his attitude, but Jaina had found him to be reasonable if a logical argument could be made. He'd added a logistical report in support of Jaina's findings about the state of the city but she did not know his mind regarding the point up for debate.
Archmage Ansirem Runeweaver, a human with a bushy beard and eyebrows who'd led the council before Rhonin waved as he arrived. He'd wandered over all of Azeroth and had travelled to Outland but family had drawn him back to Dalaran full time. He'd been a staunch supporter of the Purge and was one of the most vocal members of the Council, but Jaina believed if she could be swayed by logical argument, he could as well.
Khadgar entered the chamber next, his hair silvered and face lined with age, though his eyes sparkled in eternal mirth. He was actually only about a decade older than Jaina, but the last fight with Medivh had left him looking older than his age. It was unusual for him to be in Dalaran as he was integral to efforts to track down Garrosh Hellscream and dismantle his Iron Horde. He'd constructed a portal with the assistance of Archmage Zaliya, the Alliance garrison commander, and had returned for this important discussion. Jaina expected him to be on the pro-integration side of the debate. He'd been working with the Horde already - against the Council's previous decision. He had, if she could be forgiven the pun, ruffled some feathers.
The most recent addition to the council was Archmage Ilsudira Spellsong. Spellsong was a willowy high elf with pale golden hair cut into a neat bob that fit under the helm she often wore. Like Modera she was a warmage. She had distinguished herself in the fighting at Icecrown, in the Nexus War and Thunder Isle most recently. As was the case with many elves, she was far older than she appeared to be and prior to taking up warcasting, had been an accomplished enchanter.
Jaina knew while Spellsong had supported the Purge, she held many of Modera's concerns about the lack of magepower. Where Spellsong would fall on the matter of Horde relations, Jaina didn't know. She had strong ties to the Silver Covenant but did not consider herself a member.
The Chamber of Air did not always have seating, but today they'd conjured a round table and chairs. The mundane furniture took away from the grandiose statement of the room, but they were likely going to be here for awhile and it was far more practical to sit down to discuss some matters. Jaina took her seat, flanked by Modera and Ansirem. Khadgar sat across from her and the rest filled in between them.
They'd brought notes and their copies of her initial document. Half of Khadgar's notes appeared to be somewhat burned and she did not want to know what the stain on the top vellum was. His copy of the document she'd sent had a large muddy pawprint, but it was messy enough she couldn't tell if it was from a Worgen or an actual wolf. She shook her head and stood.
"You've all read my report on the status of the city and seen the additional documents?" There were nods all around. Good. "Does anyone want to debate the data or my conclusion that we need to bolster our numbers?" The rest of the council shook their heads, some murmuring soft 'no's. Also good.
"Then we will move on to debating what to do." Jaina took a breath and let it out slowly. Even with an additional week to get used to the idea, she still felt sick as she spoke. "As a solution, I propose we investigate how to safely reintegrate Horde mages back into Dalaran."
In a novel, the table would have erupted over that statement. Here though the council shifted in their seats, frowning thoughtfully. She supposed it helped that they knew what would be discussed prior, even if the rest of the city did not. Jaina sat down, putting herself on equal footing with the rest of the council.
"I admit I am surprised," Khadgar spoke up, his hands folded on the table before him. "You have been the staunchest opponent to this idea since it was first suggested after the siege."
Jaina set her jaw. She'd expected this but not from Khadgar. Fixing him with a steady look she lifted her chin slightly. "My personal feelings are not part of this debate."
"Aren't they? Aren't all of ours?" He gestured around. "The other mages here in Dalaran will have strong feelings. The Silver Covenant will certainly have much to say. I think even the Horde mages will have some thoughts."
Jaina folded her own hands on her papers. "I imagine they will, and I believe that as we move forward we will need to be careful. We did what was necessary at the time, but now the situation has changed. We have evaluated the data at hand and this is the most logical thing to do." Why? Why was he doing this? Khadgar of all people. Why didn't anyone else speak?
Breathing evenly she tried to stuff down the sudden panic. Would they ask her to step down over this? Don't panic, think it through, she thought to herself. Even if they did, then she could return home.
"Logic is all well and good, but not everyone embraces it," Ansirem spoke up, heavy brows knit together. "I dare say passion and... zealotry are what caused the Horde mages to act as they did. I think it's what drives Hellscream as well."
"It's a risk," Modera agreed. "But we welcomed them in when we began the campaign in Icecrown and they behaved themselves until that-" she cut herself off then continued, "until their former warchief incited them to cause trouble. I think the actions at the siege and the trial speak well to how Hellscream is currently regarded."
"But that doesn't mean they won't cause issue in the future," Karlain pointed out.
"If I might add, we have many in the city who will not accept the decision if we decide to allow them to return," Spellsong added. "The Silver Covenant will... not be pleased."
Jaina closed her eyes briefly against a flash of pain. When she opened her eyes she found Khadgar studying her.
"A quick reversal of policy will leave many... suspicious." His eyes held hers. "We kicked them out before. Who is to say we will not do so a second time?"
"Well if they don't choose sociopaths as their warchiefs I don't see us doing so," Modera huffed. "Context is important."
"Once burned, twice stupid? Isn't that the saying?" Ansirem pointed out. "The same thing could happen again."
"And who is to say they would desire to return?" Khadgar added, his steely eyes still on her. Khadgar shouldn't have been opposing her. Why? Was he against her specifically? Would he have acted this way if Modera had proposed it?
"This is a city for mages. We have the largest and best library in the world. We have the resources and space. Even the Horde mages appreciated it once they were here," Modera argued, ignoring the byplay across the table.
"I think Rommath would disagree on some of those points," Spellsong added wryly, causing Modera to scoff and roll her eyes as she muttered uncomplimentary things under her breath.
Jaina continued her mute staring contest with Khadgar. He blamed her, she suddenly 'd all voted but she was the visible face as leader. She'd been the most vocal. Jaina swallowed. There was something she could do. If it would help, if it was best for Dalaran, she would. It would be of her own choosing. She could live with Kalec as a regular archmage in the city's population. Perhaps she could even look into actually rebuilding in Theramore.
"Would it be politically expedient to this reintegration process if I were to step down from the council entirely?" She suggested with all the poise and decorum she could muster.
The discussion around the table stopped. Khadgar blinked, surprised. Jaina continued to stare across the table at him. "Is that what you want?" She asked and it was an effort to keep the sneer off her face even if she couldn't quite keep it from her voice. If anything he looked more surprised before his look turned shrewd.
"You have been the loudest voice against the Horde in this Council. You have suffered unimaginable pain and suffering, Lady-"
"Archmage," she interrupted. He arched a silvered eyebrow. "Archmage is the relevant title here," she snapped. If Khadgar was going to throw titles around, he should use the more germane one. She wasn't often a stickler for such things but the patronizing tone set her teeth on edge. She'd worked just as hard as he had to have the skills to attain that title.
Jaina looked away, tapping her fingers on the table as she caught herself. "Excuse me, that was sharp and I interrupted. Please continue."
"Archmage," Khadgar said, inclining his head slightly. "I find it curious you are the one to bring this point up."
She wanted to throttle him. She breathed in then out. "And I will ask again, do you want me to step down? Is that why you are questioning me about my personal feelings when this is supposed to be a debate about a policy reversal we all agreed to when it was the correct thing to do?"
"I am questioning your motivations Archmage. You have made no secret of your current distaste of the Horde. Some would find it suspicious for you to have another quick reversal. Yes the data stacks up, but for you to bring it?"
"I have spent most of my life advocating for coexistence and peace," she snapped back. "I have had a very bad year in regards to interactions with the Horde, but the situation and our understanding has changed."
"Khadgar," Modera spoke up, but the other mage continued, heedless.
He nodded to concede the point, eyes hard. "But such an abrupt change? When the man who murdered your people and so many others isn't yet defeated?"
"A year where I was traumatized and abused should not invalidate a lifetime of work!" She shut her eyes and breathed out. Yelling wasn't productive. She could work with them. She didn't like being feared or for people to walk on eggshells.
"Khadgar-" Modera tried again.
Khadgar spoke over Modera's second warning. "My understanding is that Garrosh allowed Theramore to regroup and believe the attack had been routed so your guard was down and there were maximum casualties. It could be said the same is being planned here."
Jaina's heart froze. The room fell silent. Even Khadgar looked somewhat surprised by his outburst, but that didn't change what he'd said or that everyone else had heard it. He thought she might have arranged all this to lure Horde mages into a trap to be killed. He didn't just blame her, he thought she was evil incarnate. An avatar of mindless vengeance.
Just as bad as Garrosh Hellscream.
Her heart cracked.
Fine. Fine. He wanted to know why she'd changed her mind? What was going through her head? She would tell him. And if they wanted her to go, she would, but not before she told him why. She could only hope they'd do the right thing.
Jaina rose to her feet, head high. She'd fought too damn hard for far too long for what she believed in and for herself. Jaina stared down her nose at him and spoke into the silence. "I have spent my life trying to advocate for everyone on this world to live in peace. And do you know what happened? No one listened except for one person. Varian and the others actively fought against everything I did. My ally on the other side abandoned me and installed the man who obliterated not only my city but your last leader and a sizeable number of Stormwind's finest soldiers."
She held his eyes as she spoke, each word dragged forth to in biting, crisp clarity so there would be no doubt as to what she said. "And while I was wounded the one person who listened to me did the impossible and managed to convince his stubborn, war ravaged father that perhaps everything I had been saying to him wasn't a waste of air."
"Jaina," Khadgar said but she waved a hand, cutting him off with a gesture.
"No. You don't get to speak yet. I have been spoken over my entire life. You are going to shut up and listen for once. I died at Hellscream's trial, Khadgar. I died. I hated how I felt. I hated how dark and isolated I'd become. I hated it. And then just when I thought maybe things would be better, I died. That puts things into perspective." She glanced around the table, daring them to speak up before she had said her piece. The council was stunned silent.
"You want to know why I've suddenly changed my mind? I want to know why you haven't questioned Varian. He spends a lifetime hating the Horde and then suddenly decides not to dismantle them? Why aren't you questioning him?"
She shook her head, disgusted. "You want to know why I've brought up reintegration? Because Dalaran won't survive. Because some of us take our leadership responsibilities seriously and do the mundane work of actually running a city. Because it's the right thing to do, Khadgar. Because right now we're not in a shooting war with the Horde. Right now we might be able to actually sit down and decide to stop shooting one another. Sooner rather than later some Old God is going to come slithering out of the ocean or the Legion is going to fall from the sky. I would rather not be fighting a damned war on two fronts when we could be fighting whatever comes next together."
She'd leaned over across the table as she'd spoken, a sneer creeping up into her face. Jaina straightened and attempted to school her features. "You want to know why I have changed my attitude? Because I've been seeing a Shado Pan mind healer to find a damn way out of the darkness and hate. It's been hard but I am finally getting somewhere, even if opening Theramore still gives me screaming nightmares. I've been trying to heal my soul, you unmitigated ass. And like any other healing it is a personal matter and isn't any of your business or anyone else's. So you can take your suspicions and shove them."
Jaina sat, hands on the table, eyes closed. Her hands shook with her pounding heart. She clasped them together. Breathe in... then out. She would not cry like a child. She was a Lady, an Archmage and Grand Magus of the Kirin Tor. At least for the next few seconds. Jaina opened her eyes to judge Khadgar's reaction.
His jaw was practically on the floor. So was Ansirem's. Spellsong's brows had disappeared under her fringe. Jaina braced herself.
"Jaina, I'm so sorry," Khadgar said, his own voice entirely without the edge of mirth it always held. For once, he was completely sincere, and lacking in the scorn with which he'd been speaking moments ago.
"I was trying to play devil's advocate to make your position stronger. I am in complete support of reintegration. I wished to test the more... volatile counter arguments so success would be that much more secured when we brought a plan to the Horde mages. I was caught up in the debate and I overstepped. What I said was incredibly offensive." He ran fingers back through his hair. "Please accept my most sincere apology, archmage. I have absolutely no desire for you to step down and I do not believe you would ever do something so heinous."
The Grand Magus didn't trust herself to speak, so she inclined her head, accepting his apology. Devil's advocate? That... made some sense. Far more sense than his opposition given all he was doing with the Horde currently. Had that been why he was holding her gaze? Jaina leaned back in her seat, shaking hands held in her lap.
Modera rose. "I think we need about a twenty minute break," she said, looking around the table "And I am going to remind us all that this is a private meeting."
Khadgar and Modera remained with Jaina. The others made tactical retreats.
"Khadgar," Modera snapped.
"I'm sorry I didn't think-"
"No. You didn't." She fetched a scroll and smacked him upside the head. Khadgar winced but accepted the blow.
"I thought you understood what I was trying to do," Khadgar said, open hands held out. "And then I went too far. I mistook your reaction. I am honestly and truly sorry and meant none of it."
"Damn right you're sorry-" Modera growled.
"He's not wrong though," Jaina spoke up, cutting off Modera's tirade. "He hasn't said anything that they aren't thinking right now. I'm the visible face of the Purge. Lor'themar and I managed to arrange a truce on Thunder Isle, but I haven't been exactly friendly."
"Given the repeated and grievous offenses against you when you are the person in the Alliance who had done the least against them, I don't blame you one bit, Jaina," Modera said. She glared at Khadgar again then slouched into her seat. "I suppose, however, that featherbrain over there did bring up some salient points amid the ludicrous ones."
"He did," Jaina agreed. "Some probably do think I would go so far as to lure them into a trap as my people were."
"Archmage," Khadgar started but she shook her head.
Jaina looked down at her hands. "Hate and fear are dangerous and there is a lot going around still." She sighed. "If it's suspicious of me to want to help the situation, maybe someone else should take over this debate if not my council seat."
She didn't look up and the silence lasted for awhile. "Do you want to step down?" Modera asked. Jaina had never heard the other mage ever sound so soft. Did she? Perhaps a part of her did. The part that wanted to just sit and study, curl up beside Kalec reading, and visit Varian and Anduin for dinner. But they'd asked her to lead and she had agreed.
"I accepted the responsibility and I won't run from it." She looked up at them. "I would like to see Dalaran survive. I'd like to see an armistice. I am very tired of seeing my friends die. If I am getting in the way of those things, I will do what is necessary."
"Damn that's noble," Modera quipped. "But if it's all the same to you, I'd rather you stick around." She grinned, flashing her teeth. "They might try to put me in charge next, and none of us want that."
"I think you would do quite well," Jaina told her honestly. Smiling a little she continued, "If you can teach teenagers and reticent archmages with gaps in their education, I think you can manage the rest."
"Ha! It's because I've done those things I know I don't want to herd all these cats. Believe you me I'd start tossing people over the side within a week." Modera shook her head, the wry smile fading again into a more serious expression. "They're going to say everything Khadgar just said, and probably worse."
Jaina looked down at her hands. At least they weren't shaking anymore. "I thought perhaps being a public supporter and trying to move forward on this issue would be a positive statement. It is a hard realization that I might be a detractor simply by being me."
"Which is bullshit," Modera said.
"And yet it isn't without substantiation." Jaina gestured at Khadgar. "I'm certain he's heard all this and more while he's been in Frostfire on Draenor."
Khadgar grimaced, guilt on his face, but defiance in his eyes as well. Jaina understood that look and those feelings so deeply she wanted to laugh. And perhaps cry. She'd once been the defiant one working with the other side.
"As extreme as some views may be," Khadgar said, "I think- I know there are those among the Horde who will respect you for reevaluating the situation and for being the one to propose the change. Others will be very impressed. A few might even understand."
Jaina played with the fabric of her skirts. At the trial, before it had all gone sideways, Vol'jin had sent her a personal letter. He'd understood her position and her rage. "Perhaps."
"My sense of Vol'jin is that he would respect a reversal in light of Garrosh being out of the picture," Khadgar said as if reading her thoughts. "And there are many mages among the trolls who would like to return to Dalaran's resources. Baine Bloodhoof would welcome any overtures we made and encourage the same in his allies," Khadgar continued.
"Gallywix won't give two shits as long as he gets to extend his trade back into our markets," Modera added with a shrug.
"The Blood Elves made up the largest contingent of Horde mages," Jaina said. "I understand Rommath would like to see me killed slowly over several days. I don't think Lor'Themar is of a significantly different mindset."
"Sunreaver is aware of the mistakes made by his people," Khadgar said, which didn't deny anything Jaina had said was incorrect.
"Bet he doesn't care for the grand-magister chortling about how working with the Kirin Tor was a bad idea from the start," Modera growled.
"Lor'Themar might not be as unyielding as you think," Khadgar said. "He's a politically savvy fellow."
"Oh, have you found an alternate Azeroth, too?" Modera asked dryly. Khadgar rolled his eyes at the other mage and Jaina found a small smile at their byplay.
Jaina sobered as the reality of the situation hit her fully. She'd known it would be hard but perhaps she hadn't appreciated how hard. Nor had she understood how she might have an effect. Anduin had suggested her support would be a positive. It might still be- but among the Alliance. Among the Horde, her involvement might very well be a liability.
Jaina rubbed at her temple as the other three council members returned and took their seats, casting anxious glances between her and Khadgar. And they hadn't even touched on the problems they would face internally.
"I would like to apologize once again," Khadgar said, standing on his side of the table. "I cannot express how personally cheered I was when the initial proposal arrived at my tower. I always admired your persistence and aims, Archmage. I should have been a more vocal supporter earlier. Then maybe it wouldn't have just been you and Prince Anduin advocating for peace." He sat down.
"Thank you," Jaina said, inclining her head. "So." Breathe in then out. "There will likely be some among the Horde who are... less inclined to return. That doesn't even touch on the people still here who will be displeased." She stared at the middle of the table. "And despite the difficulty, I still feel in the long term this will be not only right for the city, but we might be able to help start a larger dialog."
"I can't say I like the risk," Ansirem said, fingers idly scratching through his beard. "It was always risky to invite them in. I have to admit a part of me felt vindicated in not entirely trusting them." He folded his hands on the table. "But I've been trying to give the idea a fair shot. I agree we need to do something, but I'm still unsure this is it."
"This is what Ranger-General Windrunner was screaming at you about, isn't it?" Spellsong asked.
Jaina sighed and nodded. "I'm sorry. I didn't think we would reach that point." She hadn't expected Vereesa to shout at all. Be worried, complain or snap? Yes. But some of her comments had hit low. And then at the memorial at Theramore... Jaina put her wounded friendship with Vereesa aside. "I have a concern that some in the city will be moved to show their displeasure. The Silver Covenant was formed specifically as an opposition to the Blood Elves."
"It was easier to put differences aside when we had the very real and tangible threats of the Lich King, Malygos and Deathwing to contend with," Spellsong observed. "Garrosh is still at large but he isn't present here."
"Are you suggesting we wait until the next mutual enemy rears his head?" Karlain asked.
"No," Spellsong shook her head. "I think we need to capitalize on the enemy we have."
"If I might interject," Ansirem said, raising a hand. The others fell silent and looked at him. He set his hands on the table. "Have we examined other options?"
"Are there any, Ansirem?" Modera asked. "Name another population of mages on Azeroth we could reach out towards?"
He frowned at her. "Are you all decided then that this is the course of action?"
"We haven't yet thought through all the implications," Karlain said. "What if, and understand I think these are improbable and I bring it up for completeness sake, the Silver Covenant decides they are going to leave? What also if the Horde mages refuse offers to return?" He nodded at Ansirem. "I too cannot think of a substantial population of mages who aren't already welcome here."
"Well," Modera said, hesitantly. "I can think of one. But they're nearly as controversial. However the representative we have so far has been rather polite."
"Blue dragons?" Spellsong asked, brows knit together. "Don't they regard all of us as rather... quaint?"
"Don't they have their own city?" Ansirem asked, looking over at Jaina. Karlain and the others also looked at her.
"We could extend the invitation but I do not honestly know how many would show up if any did at all," Jaina said. "The dragonflights are dealing with their own transitional phase. The blue dragons still control the Nexus but the blue flight has largely dispersed themselves."
"I hesitate to suggest it," Ansirem said, "But we could attempt to recruit more non-mages to live here."
Jaina winced and found her expression mirrored by many others around the table. Dalaran had been built by mages for mages. It wasn't forbidden to be a non-mage in the city by any means, but the founding mages had left their own cities to avoid persecution for being what they were.
"I don't like it either but it might resolve things," Ansirem said. "At least in the short term."
"We're not exactly in a prime location anymore," Karlain pointed out. "It would likely be easier, should we choose that route, to recruit new citizens if we were closer to other large population centers."
"Moving the city isn't easy," Modera said. "But it is possible. We should consider that."
"I think if we move the city or not, if we allow more blue dragons or not, we should still extend offers to the Horde mages," Khadgar said. "The Blood Elves might be disinclined to return but the other races would like our resources. Some of the Undead were Kirin Tor before the plague."
"Do you believe some would desire to return even if others from the Horde do not?" Jaina asked.
"I do. As I am in a unique position given my... proximity to the Horde, I believe there were some bad feelings between Sunreaver's people and the others, particularly with the Goblins and Undead. While they feel they were unjustly removed, they do lay partial blame on the blood elves. Among the orcs, most are appalled by what Garrosh became, but the distrust of the Alliance still runs strong. The trolls, from what I can tell, almost universally hate Garrosh. In that population they feel the least rancor- Dalaran was a city of human origin and a crime was committed. I think they respect the Council for acting decisively against a threat and many feel they would have done the same were the positions reversed." He grimaced slightly, "If anything some might say we were too lenient. It is a... point of debate with the elves."
"What do you think our chances are for having anyone return then, Khadgar?" Jaina asked.
"I think it will be slow. Trust was lost on both sides. But the Undead, Trolls and Goblins will come. Maybe not at once but they will. The Orcs will be slower."
"And the elves?"
Khadgar frowned thoughtfully. "I am uncertain."
"Do you have the time to make some inquiries using the unique channels you have at your disposal?" Jaina asked.
"I could do that," he said.
Jaina gestured towards Spellsong. "You mentioned capitalizing on the enemy we have. Did you have further thoughts?"
The elf nodded. "We still have Garrosh who is almost universally hated in the Alliance and the Horde. He's raised an army which both of us are currently fighting. Khadgar is involved with both expeditions. In the recent past, we have acted as a neutral party. At Icecrown we not only allowed the Horde in, but we moved troops and provided magical firepower for both sides. As much as propaganda might say otherwise, everyone was needed to ultimately take down both Malygos and Deathwing." Spellsong looked around the table as she spoke. "We acted as a neutral city before and we made good on our promise to be so until our trust was violated. If we step up support similarly in the alternate Draenor and put actions behind words, that's going to be convincing proof for a lot of people."
"You're suggesting we throw more of our weight behind Khadgar and use him as a way to soften up our political perception among the Horde," Jaina summarized. "And also give them opportunities to allow us to trust them."
"That and squash Garrosh Hellscream like a bug," Spellsong said, nodding. "But yes. In addition to whatever we decide to do here as well.
"Zaliya's over there as Commander," Jaina mused, meeting Khadgar's eyes. "Do you know how her relations with the Horde are?"
Khadgar pursed his lips as he thought. "I think she knows the Horde commander from the campaign in Pandaria. Call it a neutral respect? I can find details."
Ansirem shifted in his seat. "The Silver Covenant will not like any of this. I'm not sure I like any of this."
"What are you thinking, Ansirem?" Jaina asked.
He looked at her with a serious expression. "I have three children now and a wife who would rather care for them and teach than get into an actual conflict again. Lily's hung up her sword. Jaina, is it safe for them to be here? This is a terrible risk." He drew in a breath and sighed. "Is it worth it? We might find another solution with more time. Why now?"
Jaina adjusted the folder and papers before her so they were entirely straight, giving her a moment to order her thoughts. "I have come to believe that it is worth the risk. The time is critical because right now we still have a common enemy," she said, nodding at Spellsong. "Other organizations have members from both factions in their numbers. My suspicion is that Vol'jin is more interested in fixing everything Garrosh broke than in conquest. I believe that given the current circumstances, Varian would be inclined to set his sword aside. Why not now?"
"Ansirem," Modera spoke up. She straightened from the casual slouch she'd been in and leaned forward in her seat. "I've seen more war first hand than anyone else in this room including the elf over there who's got a few decades on me." Modera tilted her head at Spellsong, but there wasn't the expected humor in her voice.
She sounded tired and worn. For the first time Jaina truly recognized the lines on Modera's face, the many, many time-faded scars on her hands and the age in her eyes. She was nearly in her seventies if she wasn't already; old for a Human, and incredibly old for a battlecaster.
"I am very good at war, Ansirem," she said. "But I am really damn sick of it." She sighed with weight. "I have a bad feeling about the next crisis. Haven't you felt it? The looming darkness?"
Across the table, Khadgar sat up straighter, eyes drawn to Modera. Ansirem frowned, as did Karlain. Spellsong's lips thinned and Jaina wondered if she felt it too. The dark foreboding had only recently made itself known to her, faint as a whisper, but there none the less.
"I can't say I have given all that's going on right now," Ansirem said, "But I trust your judgement Modera." He studied Jaina for a long moment then nodded to himself. "And I trust yours Jaina. I have reservations though."
"I believe we all do," Jaina acknowledged. "Moving to the other question then. The response here."
There were uncomfortable looks around the table. Spellsong leaned forward, folding her hands together on the table.
"The Silver Covenant will not be pleased. They were formed when Rhonin allowed Sunreaver and his people in initially. What happened under Garrosh, for many, justifies holding onto their views." She shifted in her seat. "Ranger-General Windrunner is a vocal opponent of the Horde still. The Silver Covenant represents a portion of our strongest battlecasters and the non-combatant mages and warriors are respected in the general population."
"Ranger-General Windrunner is aware I was bringing this question to the Council," Jaina said, speaking up when Spellsong was finished. "As previously mentioned she was... displeased. She has had some time to think about the issue over the past few days."
"Do you think she will change her mind?" Khadgar asked.
Jaina closed her eyes. "I don't know. I haven't spoken with her about this issue since that initial meeting. I'm also concerned about what the rest of the city will think."
"Well speaking personally, we'll be worried about our families," Ansirem spoke up. "And we're going to wonder if we can trust them this time."
"Having some of the same suppliers back will be welcomed by many of the craftsmen," Karlain said. "New people conducting business will go a long way to soften hard feelings. That said we can probably expect some of the same behavior that happened when the Horde mages first came here. Refusal of service and poor service. Inflated prices."
"How did the council deal with them last time," Jaina asked. She'd been far more preoccupied with Icecrown citadel and concern for what Arthas was doing.
"Passed mandates saying that sort of behavior was unacceptable," Karlain answered. "Eventually people got over their anger, but at the time we were more concerned about the Scourge than the Horde."
"I have given this some thought," Modera said. She tapped the stack of files in the sealed scroll case she'd brought with her. "Just a few... contingency plans. In case."
"I may regret asking this," Khadgar said, "but In case of what?"
"Well I have a preliminary report of our martial capabilities should the Silver Covenant decide to leave or refuse to do anything," Modera said. "And then I have a plan in case they are agitated enough we need to deploy security forces in the city to stop mage on mage violence. I have some response scenarios in case they try to forcibly eject any or all of us from the city. Another on if they attempt a total coup." Modera shrugged a shoulder. "Fairly standard apocalypse scenarios."
Jaina closed the jaw she'd not notice had dropped. Then again she was learning this sort of slightly paranoid thought process was typical of Archmage Modera. She cleared her throat.
"Ah. Well, do you have thoughts on what the likelihood of any of those scenarios might be?"
"Well I place them attempting to throw us off the city as rather low. I also think they'd be disinclined to undo all our warding and let the city plummet to the ground," Modera answered. "I think most likely is physical or magical altercations between whoever is brave enough to return and Silver Covenant members. I'm not looking forward to having to police that," she concluded.
"So at best a worse version of the low grade fighting and adjustment as happened before, and at worst you think they might try to overtake the city?" Jaina asked.
Modera shrugged. "Something like that, yes. It will probably end up somewhere in the middle. Every group as their members who are more extreme than others. I think it is very likely we'll have a lot of angry people yelling at us. Depending on how we decide to go about reintegration there are more or fewer opportunities for violence."
"In your estimation, what is the likelihood it will tear the city apart?" Jaina asked.
"Not sure I can say without knowing how we'd go about bringing people back. I know there is going to be an initial outcry and it will be loud and angry." She crossed her arms. "Frankly though if we can get past that initial reaction, people will get used to having Horde mages here again. The boost to the economy Karlain mentioned will quiet many of the concerns quickly."
"Are you so sure?" Ansirem asked.
"It happened before," Modera said, with a little shrug. "I think there is a risk in inviting them back and I think there is a risk our people will react badly. But I also think that there is a very real danger in not trying to reintegrate."
"So that's it, we're agreed we'll move forward on this item then?" Ansirem asked, looking around. "Are we ready to take a vote?" There were nods all around the table and Jaina rose.
"On the issue of re-admitting Horde mages into Dalaran, votes in favor?" Modera's hand rose as did Khadgar's. Spellsong did as well though she was not as fast. Karlain followed a beat later, looking thoughtful. Ansirem blew out his bushy moustache then held his own hand up. Jaina raised hers as well. "I am grateful we are in agreement on this," she said. "We spoke as one before and we have done so again." She sat down. "Now comes the part where we figure out how."
"I have some thoughts," Ansirem said. "I would like to devise some plans if no one else has objection. I have some specific concerns. If we're going to do this, then I'd like to oversee things here in Dalaran."
"I would appreciate being involved," Karlain said. "Somehow I've become in charge of half the logistics here," he said, casting a wry look in Jaina's direction. "And I have concerns as well. I don't want us devolving into another internal fight and none of us want anything to negatively affect our citizens."
"I'd welcome your input, Karlain," Ansirem said.
Jaina nodded. "I have no objection. Your concerns are well founded and I agree with them. I know between the two of you we'll get a solid plan. Anyone else have thoughts?" There were none and Jaina found herself smiling a little. "How long do you two need for an initial proposal?"
Ansirem shrugged. "A week?" he asked Karlain.
The other mage's eyes narrowed as he thought. He nodded. "Acceptable."
"A week then," Jaina confirmed. She looked at Khadgar. "You've got your hands full in Draenor, but would you be able to make inquiries?"
"I will do that and what I can to promote the idea," Khadgar nodded. He paused. "I assume this means I am now free to openly work with both factions with the Council's blessing?"
Modera actually growled. She leaned forward and fixed Khadgar with a gimlet eye. "I think that goes without saying, but try to be a bit less rude when you're flaunting your contrary feathers." The older mage jerked her head in Jaina's direction. "Maybe you should observe and reflect on the definition of discrete and ask for pointers."
Khadgar chuckled and held a hand against his chest. "I promise to be the epitome of diplomacy."
"Light help us," Modera said, rolling her eyes as she slouched back in her chair.
"If we're claiming areas of work, I'd like to help with promoting the Kirin Tor in the alternate draenor and other more martial areas," Spellsong said. She inclined her head to Modera and smirked faintly. "If the venerable Archmage Modera doesn't mind."
"Oh fel no, knock yourself out if you want to take point. Frees me up to coordinate with you and Khadgar. Means I might get some field time," she added the last with a feral grin. "In all seriousness I'd like to help work that angle."
Spellsong nodded smartly. "We'll coordinate after this meeting."
"Right. Khadgar don't run off immediately as I think we'll have questions about what you'll need and what you think everyone else will need," Modera said.
"Of course," Khadgar said. He turned a smile on Jaina. "Which leaves our Grand Magus either having cleverly delegated all the work, or left her with the least fun task."
Jaina found she could return the little smirk before she sobered. "I'll help coordinate here of course and if anyone needs me I will be able to help. I'll see what I can't do to smooth things over with the Silver Covenant and I'll probably be doing more of the same with the leaders of the Alliance once we announce our plans. I think I will warn Stormwind prior and depending on what Varian thinks I may be paying visits to the other Alliance leaders as well."
"Definitely the least fun task," Khadgar said, pulling an exaggerated face. "And I imagine you will be plenty busy once we see if Vol'jin has anything to say about this plan of ours. You might even have to negotiate with Lor'themar and Rommath."
"Oh, goodie," Modera said.
Jaina ignored Modera's commentary, even if she felt much the same way. "I would like further information through your contacts, Khadgar, before we draft a formal letter. By then we should have some solid plans in place to use moving forward."
"Agreed," Ansirem said, nodding along with the others at the table.
"I imagine it would be wise of us to keep news we have decided to offer readmission quiet?" Modera arched an eyebrow. "Given how strained communication is right now, I would much rather not have anyone over there learn about it from angry Kirin Tor Mages."
"Also agreed," Ansirem said with feeling. "Perhaps we should try to plan a bit faster than a week, Karlain? News like this could turn sour fast if we don't have a plan."
"Agreed. Let's call it three days." He frowned. "It won't be as thorough as I'd like but things like these have a short shelf life."
"Good. We'll report back in three days, Jaina."
She nodded. "Khadgar can you be back by then?"
The other mage thought about that for a moment before reluctantly shaking his head. "No, but I trust everyone's judgement. Keep me informed of what you decide and I'll work on seeing if anyone would even be willing to return."
"And if no one does?" Ansirem asked.
Jaina blew out a breath. "Then we think of something else. It's another reason to keep this close."
"Aye," Modera said. "No sense in getting anyone angry if won't work."
Jaina and the others nodded agreement. The meeting broke up, the various teams to their different tasks. Jaina remained to banish the table and chairs they'd summoned. Khadgar lingered as well.
"Something else?" Jaina asked as she began to banish chairs back to storage.
"About earlier-"
"You apologized," she said rising with her stack of papers. She banished the table with a wave of her hand and murmured word.
"I didn't want to apologize for this in front of the others."
She looked up, instantly wary. "Oh?"
"Nothing nefarious," he said, waving a hand. Jaina relaxed. "I put you in a place where you revealed something very personal to us," Khadgar explained," and for that I am very sorry as well."
Jaina considered him for a moment then nodded. "Thank you."
"I'd wondered where Modera had gotten the idea for speaking to the Shado Pan. Was it your idea?" he asked as he helped her to banish the remaining chairs.
Jaina shrugged a shoulder. "Partially. We had a talk and I told her what I'd been doing. She and I agreed there might be more mages than me who could benefit from their healers."
He nodded, eyes downcast in thought. "Good. That's good. For us all." He looked up at her. "You think something dark is coming, too?"
Jaina swallowed and nodded mutely. "Modera spoke of it to me first. Prescience hasn't ever been my strong suit but even I'm feeling something. A distant worry I could ignore except it's been called to my attention. Maybe I'm just picking up on Modera's feeling."
Khadgar nodded. "Will you keep me apprised of that as well? If something changes among any of us?"
"Of course." They stepped through the portal that led out of the chamber of air and walked down the hall, stopping at the intersection.
"Then I will see you when I see you, Archmage. I am going to stuff my robes with as many decent baked goods as I can before I have to open a portal back."
Jaina smiled a little more broadly. "Do you need a hand?"
"Kind of you to offer. I would appreciate it. Will save Zaliya and I some time recovering. I'm scheduled to depart this evening from the parlor here."
"I'll see you then," Jaina said, turning towards her own office.
She felt lighter, though worry remained. The council had stood with her, though. She'd worried about them being a road block. The realization that she herself might be an impediment on the Horde side was... uncomfortable. But she could do much the same as Spellsong had suggested for the Kirin Tor as a whole. She could let her actions speak. Opening Theramore to shamans and druids from races allied to the Horde was terrifying but the knowledge that it would have larger benefits helped ease the fear somewhat. She'd cleared the first hurdles in convincing herself and the rest of the Council.
Now she just had to convince everyone else this was a good idea.