Although the Barov Family, blinded by their position, maintained some caution toward other nations, the benefits Terenas promised still convinced them to side with Lordaeron on the matter of the Prisoner-of-War Camps.
After all, the Barov Family wasn't short on money, and simply funding the maintenance of the Prisoner-of-War Camps was not a difficult task.
But Andreas, who possessed the Cheat of a Prophet, knew Terenas' insidious political scheming.
He deliberately used the Prisoner-of-War Camp Proposal to pave the way, and not just simply to disgust Gilneas, Gilneas, and Stromgarde.
In this matter, he gave certain promises to gain Alterac's support, but this undoubtedly left a bad impression of the Barov Family in the eyes of those three nations.
Among the four nations that chose to approve the construction of the Prisoner-of-War Camps, the Kingdom of Stormwind was eager to return south and rebuild its nation, while Dalaran was merely an Independent City-State, unreliable in critical moments.
Once Terenas deemed Alterac incapable of defending its territory in the Alliance's subsequent proposals... Gilneas and Stromgarde, already displeased with the Barovs, would surely seize the opportunity to take a piece of the pie.
"Brunhilde, Terenas is likely to roll out a series of dirty tricks next. If possible, you and Daelin should try your best to help Alterac."
"Alterac? Why should we help Lordaeron's dogs?"
Brunhilde frowned. Having been forcefully required to support the construction and maintenance costs of the Prisoner-of-War Camps, even this wise Queen was highly displeased with Alterac for relying on Lordaeron.
Andreas smiled and spread his hands, saying, "It's the simple principle of 'If the Lips Are Gone, the Teeth Will Be Cold.' Perhaps no matter how much I say now, you won't immediately agree. Just observe the subsequent developments for now; I believe you will make the correct choice then."
Brunhilde rolled her eyes. "Another Riddle... Fine, since you put it that way, I'll keep a close eye on what happens next."
Among the various Member States of the Alliance, including the Wildhammer Dwarves, Bronzebeard Dwarves, and Gnomes, none held much influence; the core of the Alliance remained in the hands of the Eight Human Kingdoms.
Among these human nations, the Kingdom of Gilneas had the best relationship with the Night Elf Republic, a friendship that had lasted for thousands of years without fading.
Next was Kul Tiras, which had always maintained good trade and cooperative relations, the Kingdom of Stormwind, which had only increased contact and cooperation in recent years, and the Barov Family, whose interactions had recently strengthened due to Andreas' help with advice and planning.
Unfortunately, the Barov Family was now immersed in Terenas' hollow promises, their minds filled with the joy of soon ascending the throne, and Andreas' subtle reminders went unheeded.
To avoid being seen as provoking conflict between the human nations, Andreas couldn't speak too plainly. He could only instruct Brunhilde and Daelin to intervene and help when the time came, attempting to save the Kingdom of Alterac.
Besides deepening ties with the Alliance's fringe nations, this time assisting Quel'Thalas in defending against the Orc attack and taking ZulAman—which had been stuck in the High Elves' throat for thousands of years—greatly shifted the Night Elves' image in Quel'Thalas.
The change was most pronounced among the High Elves residing in the Amani Forest. Had the Night Elves not sent troops to help, heaven knows what their homes would have become under the ravages of the Orcs and Trolls.
The populace of Eversong Woods also changed their hostile attitude toward the Night Elves to a certain extent.
In any case, it was an undeniable fact that the Night Elf Republic had sent troops to assist their kingdom.
Although the Nobility Faction, led by the Silvermoon Council, still held no favorable opinion of the Night Elves, the Night Elves' assistance this time at least earned them significant goodwill among the Common Populace.
Crown Prince Kaelthas once again requested the Sun King to end his "Studies Abroad" and return to Silvermoon City. Although the Silvermoon Council repeatedly voiced opposition, Anasterian's stubborn views underwent subtle changes after experiencing a war.
He finally agreed to Kaelthas' request, assigning Aethas Sunreaver to stay in Dalaran to maintain relations with the Human Mage Kingdom, while Crown Prince Kaelthas led his Close Retinue back to Quel'Thalas.
The Sun King's decision caused an outcry among the Silvermoon Council. The Nobles had a bad feeling that the days when they could oppress others and act wildly seemed likely to fade with Kaelthas' return.
"ambassador?"
During his meeting with Kaelthas in Lordaeron, the Prince, representing the Sun King, proposed that they mutually dispatch ambassadors to the Night Elf Republic.
Andreas rubbed his chin and considered. "Sending an ambassador is fine, but who do you plan to send to Astranaar? It won't be those Nobles from the Silvermoon Council whose noses are stuck up in the air, right?"
"How could that be."
Kaelthas sneered, "Those Useless Bureaucrats who occupy their positions for nothing—I will deal with them sooner or later. Of course, I won't give them a chance to earn Political Prestige at a time like this."
"Although the Nobility Faction does have some sensible people, in order to treat everyone equally, My Father has decided to completely exclude all Noble Influences this time, letting Ranger-General Lireesa recommend the candidates."
"Uh..."
Andreas rubbed his brow with his finger and asked, "I think I can guess who it will be."
Lireesa had repeatedly expressed her intention to retire during this war. Sylvanas would soon take over her Ranger-General position, so she couldn't leave.
Excluding Sylvanas, there were only a few people qualified to be recommended by Lireesa: Alleria, Vereesa, and... who was that other person?
Kaelthas smiled on his remarkably handsome face and nodded, saying, "You guessed correctly. Alleria will be the Principal Ambassador, with Vereesa serving as the Deputy Ambassador."
'Just as expected...'
As early as yesterday when he bid farewell to Lireesa, Andreas had picked up some clues from her tone.
Turalyon's incessant pestering made Alleria quite impatient, and the good relationship Vereesa, who was still naive, had with humans also gave Lireesa a headache. This was the perfect opportunity to send both daughters across the ocean to avoid them for a period.
High Elves possess Lifespans of several thousand years; a "period of time" for them is usually unbearable for humans.
Turalyon and Rhonin were both in their twenties. Lireesa didn't believe they could avoid marrying and having children in another decade or so. At worst, she would just wait them out and see who could endure the longest.
To prevent her daughters from becoming widows too early, Lireesa believed it necessary to vet potential suitors for Alleria and Vereesa. At the same time, she was actively working in Quel'Thalas, planning to find a suitable Husband for the age-appropriate Alleria.
Thinking of this, Andreas couldn't help but inwardly complain: 'Aside from the Nobles living in Silvermoon City, very few people are qualified to Intermarry with the Windrunner Ducal Family. Could it be that Lord whose name I can't recall?'
This visit to Lordaeron was likely Kaelthas' last short-term visit to a human kingdom. He was full of ambition, preparing to rush back to Silvermoon City, engage in a battle of wits with the Sun King and the Silvermoon Council, and quickly complete Reforms for the stagnant Quel'Thalas.
After sending Kaelthas off, Andreas and Celeste also left the city, which reeked of political stench, via a Teleportation Spell, returning to the continent of Kalimdor. Meanwhile, generals like Shandris and Leticia had to travel back with the main army aboard Troop Transports.
Regarding the ambassador to be stationed in Silvermoon City, Andreas already had some ideas. Upon returning to Astranaar, he immediately strode toward the Great Moon Temple, preparing to hear the opinions of others.
In the Great Moon Temple's council hall, Tyrande regarded Andreas with an odd expression. "Are you certain? Let me remind you—this ambassadorship could last a very long time."
Andreas shrugged. "I'm certain. Before leaving the Eastern Kingdoms I discussed it with Celeste and Shandris."
"As long as she doesn't object herself, we'll treat it as social practice and let her see the world in Quel'Thalas. After all, a whirlwind tour only gives you a glimpse; to understand a place you have to live there."
Tyrande sighed. "Have it your way. By birth, Aurora is more than qualified; even the picky High Elves shouldn't complain."
Indeed—Andreas planned to send his daughter Aurora to Quel'Thalas as ambassador.
Aurora had grown into adulthood long ago; her mind was far more mature than the childish Vereesa, and she had the skills for the post.
With the orcish invasion repelled and the long-standing Forest Troll troubles settled, Quel'Thalas should see no major upheaval for a while. Andreas' only worry was the realm's decadent lifestyle.
Turning to Fandral, Andreas asked, "Aurora will be chief envoy; I want a reliable deputy for her. Fandral, send Feren to help."
Fandral nodded. "No problem. The druids in the Eastern Kingdoms need a coordinator anyway, and if possible I'd like to spread druidic faith among the High Elves. Let the boy go."
As Fandral's most prized pupil, Feren had grown steady after ten millennia of trials; he was no longer the kid who used to trail after Leticia.
Though Feren had married long ago, the Night Elves' abysmal fertility rate had left him childless, so moving to Quel'Thalas spared him any schooling concerns.
Fandral had been in high spirits these past few years; the High Council could see the silly grin he wore almost daily.
After years of marriage, Vastann and Leiana had finally added a new scion to the Staghelm line—Fandral's beloved granddaughter Estaria.
Andreas had been stationed in the Eastern Kingdoms when Estaria was born and missed her arrival; on his return he made sure to bring a belated gift.
"Catch."
Andreas tossed Fandral a golden crystal pendant. "It holds highly compressed, stable holy light. If it senses its owner wounded, the stored light will heal her automatically, and in a crisis it can trigger a demigod-grade Divine Bulwark once."
Divine Bulwark was Andreas' improvement on Power Word: Fortress learned from Velen; much like a human paladin's Divine Shield, it grants near-invulnerability for a short time.
So long as attacks don't exceed the caster's limit, the shield is unbreakable and can save a life at a critical moment.
In Andreas' private notes on Fandral, Estaria's fate was recorded: the poor girl, Fandral's last comfort after losing a son, died in the "True Horde" raid on Astranaar.
Whether the timeline would converge or not, some precautions were wise... "An embassy to Quel'Thalas?"
Aurora tilted her head. "Fine. When I toured Quel'Thalas I found the realm fascinating; this time I can really learn High-Elven customs."
"Good that you agree, but let me warn you."
Andreas' face turned stern as he ruffled Aurora's hair. "Don't let their decadent ways rub off on you. If I find you living like them..."
Aurora rolled her eyes and swatted his hand away. "Dad, you know me. I won't be infected, and Feren will keep watch."
"Besides," she added with a wicked elbow to his ribs, "I hear Quel'Thalas sent two gorgeous lady ambassadors to Astranaar who happen to know you. Any... ideas?"
"Hah."
Andreas gave her a deadpan look and tapped her head. "Mind your own business. Your old man's past the age of chasing skirts."
Though Aurora was no longer young, she showed no interest in finding a mate—something that worried Andreas, Celeste, and Shandris.
If she met someone suitable in Quel'Thalas it would be acceptable; lifespan was no issue—they could haul the fellow back to Nordrassil for blessing.
"Hmph!" Aurora boasted, hands on hips. "I've got suitors lining from the Moon Temple to the outlying manors; none have caught my eye yet."
"Conceited brat..."
Andreas shook his head and turned to the languid Dragon sprawled on the sofa.
"How about you? Planning to tag along to Quel'Thalas again?"
"Me?" Onyxia waved lazily. "I'll pass. I'm used to the Night-Elven way of life; I'll stay in Kalimdor."
"Oh, right," she added, suddenly remembering. "Malygos asked me to pass word: after the war, find time to visit the Wyrmrest Temple. The Aspects want news of the dragon soul."
With the Nightmare fading, most Green Dragons—including Ysera—had been freed, though Malfurion still fought in the Emerald Dream.
Learning she'd missed the battle against Deathwing, Ysera felt some regret, but the easy-going Green Dragon Queen soon set it aside and grew curious about the changed dragon soul.
"The dragon soul, huh..."
With a conflicted look Andreas drew out a gold disc the size of an egg; the once breastplate-sized artifact had shrunk to this.
All its power had been absorbed by the tiny golden Dragon coiled on his chest.
"Wow!"
Aurora's eyes lit up at the wyrm that seemed a blend of Eastern and Western Dragons. "What is it? It looks different from normal Dragons."
Onyxia too stared at the little creature; something about it tugged at her.
Andreas sighed. "A spirit of the artifact—or an item-soul, whatever you call it.
"After ages the dragon soul birthed a pseudo-soul—this little fellow. I call it the heart of the aspect—Dragon Heart."
Logically, a heart of the aspect born from absorbing energy should not have a physical form.
But Andreas could clearly feel a warm touch emanating from his chest; the Little Dragon's delicate, soft golden scales had long been warmed by Andreas' body temperature, and it seemed to enjoy this warmth.
"Wooh?"
Sensing the change in external temperature, Little Dragon, who had been resting with its eyes closed, opened its beautiful crystal-like eyes.
Aurora, who had been fascinated by art since childhood, instinctively moved her hands and pleaded with her father, "Dad, can I hold it? Just for a few minutes."
Andreas extended a finger and poked Dragon's body, "Ask it yourself. This little fellow possesses high intelligence and can understand what we say, though it can't speak."
"Aww~"
Emitting a soft, childish Dragon roar, Little Dragon obediently flew from Andreas' chest and slowly floated in front of Aurora, whose eyes were sparkling, then extended its tongue to lick her finger.
Auni curiously poked it. The soft scales didn't seem to offer much protection, but the resilience they bounced back with was quite strong.
"How strange," Auni said in confusion. "I can feel four different Aspect powers from it, but this little fellow doesn't seem to be able to use these powers for itself."
Andreas nodded and said, "I felt it too. However, Dragon seems to be gaining insight from these powers that don't belong to it. Its own energy has already begun to form within its body, though it's not yet mature."
"Hmm..." Auni looked at the soft and adorable Dragon and thought for a moment. "Could it be due to the lack of the Black Dragon's Earth Aspect power?"
"Wooh?"
Hearing Auni's words, Little Dragon turned its head and looked at her with sparkling eyes.
"It seems I hit the mark."
Andreas shrugged, "Perhaps. We'll have the Aspects examine it later; maybe they can find a way to solve this little one's problem."
...Although the Orc War had temporarily concluded, the repercussions of the conflict had not completely dissipated.
The establishment of orc prisoner-of-war camps placed varying degrees of burden on the economic systems of the eight human nations. King Genn Greymane grew increasingly resentful of Terenas' decision to build the camps, and the two frequently quarreled publicly recently.
Gilneas had always practiced isolationism. If not for the overwhelming might of the Horde, he would not have joined the Alliance led by Lordaeron.
With the war over, most orcs captured, and the Horde fractured, Genn's inherent reclusive nature, inherited from the Greymane royal family, began to assert itself again. He had already conceived the idea of withdrawing from the Alliance and refusing to pay for the upkeep of the prisoner-of-war camps.
However, a recent change within the Alliance caused him to temporarily put aside his isolationist thoughts.
During the prolonged squabbling over post-war spoils, Terenas navigated the initial period of alliances and finally bared his fangs at Alterac, with whom he had a long-standing feud.
Constantine Menethil left a "curse" for his descendants before his death, hoping that Lordaeron would reclaim its lost territories in the future, including the entirety of the Kingdom of Gilneas and Keldaron and Icecrown, which were forcibly taken by Alterac.
Generation after generation of Kings of Lordaeron had upheld Constantine's dying wish. Seeing Alterac fall into unprecedented weakness, Terenas finally couldn't hold back.
"Thump!"
Old Duke Lex Barov tremblingly tapped his cane on the ground, then stood up from his seat, looking incredulously at Terenas, who wore a gentle smile.
"Your Majesty Terenas, I seem to have misheard. Could you repeat what you just said?"
"Of course," Terenas said with a smile. "Since Alterac is unable to protect its capital and royal family, why not let other nations help you? As members of the Alliance, we should help each other."
"You!"
Lex trembled with rage. Everyone present was an old rogue who had been in politics for years, and Terenas' meaning couldn't be clearer: he wanted to intervene in Alterac's internal affairs in the name of the Alliance.
"Dream on!"
General Haas roared, his beard bristling. "Don't think we don't know what Lordaeron is planning! You built prisoner-of-war camps despite your allies' objections just to increase the economic burden on other nations, using it to achieve your dirty ambition of devouring the other human kingdoms!"
Lex's expression changed, and he stretched out a withered arm to stop the old general. "Haas! Silence!"
Terenas' face completely darkened. Everyone understood his intentions. With the thick skin of a king, he could pretend not to see the hostile glances from other kingdoms, but being directly cursed to his face was another matter.
"Presumptuous!" Terenas' eyes flashed coldly. "The Alliance's King's Council is no place for a mere general to interject. Do the Alterac people not even understand basic etiquette?"
Terenas' aggressiveness made the Alterac side extremely indignant and aggrieved. Lex saw the other kings either watching coldly or hesitating to speak, and a chill suddenly ran down his spine.
'I've been tricked! Terenas' promise to support the Barov Family's rise to power was just a false bait he threw out!'
Being able to develop the Barov Family to its current state step by step, Lex was certainly no mediocrity. As the allure of the throne gradually faded, he finally saw through Terenas' scheme.
Gilneas and Stromgarde, who had quarreled over the construction of the prisoner-of-war camps earlier, watched coldly. Both these nations bordered Alterac, and if Lordaeron made the first move, they would surely swarm in like hyenas to tear at the spoils.
King Llane also understood Terenas' conspiracy, but he opened his mouth and ultimately said nothing.
Lothar pressed heavily on Llane's shoulder. "Your Majesty, we are barely able to protect ourselves right now; we cannot help Alterac. Terenas' promised reconstruction aid was agreed upon for this very reason."
Llane clenched his hands, hidden beneath the table. "I know. Restoring the kingdom is paramount; I will not let impulse control me."
Dalaran remained aloof and unconcerned. Antonidas closed his eyes to rest, gently stroking his long white beard with his left hand.
The Wildhammer, Bronzebeard Dwarves, and Gnomes exchanged glances and remained silent, as the outcome of this matter held no personal interest for them.
Brunhilde, who had been observing coldly, saw the various expressions of the Alliance leaders and a cold smile gradually formed on her lips.
'So this is what Andreas meant by 'when the lips are gone, the teeth are cold'? Menethil...heh~'
If Lordaeron were to annex large territories from Alterac, its national strength would become unprecedentedly powerful. The first to suffer would likely be the Kingdom of Gilneas, which had always been a thorn in the side of successive Menethil kings.
"King Terenas, aren't your methods a bit shameless?"
Brunhilde leisurely stood up from her seat. "Even if Alterac performed poorly in this Orc War, they committed no major wrongdoing. If the Black Dragon disaster had occurred in any other nation, our fate would be no better than Perenolde's."
"Using this excuse to annex Alterac, don't you think your appetite is too big?"
"And you all."
Ignoring Terenas' gloomy expression, Brunhilde turned to look at the silent Genn and Thoras. "If Alterac disintegrates, you certainly can carve out a piece of fat, but what about later?"
"Since Lordaeron dares to set a precedent for coveting other nations, who can guarantee they won't be the next target? Gilneas, which borders Lordaeron? Or Stromgarde, the rightful birthplace of the Arathor Empire?"
The fierce arguments among the Alliance member states in Lordaeron had a significant impact. By the time Andreas received the news, the Lordaeron Alliance had already begun to crumble due to the unfair distribution of spoils.
Under the questioning and reminders from the Kingdom of Gilneas, Genn, who already had misgivings, finally couldn't hold back. He was the first to step forward, pressing Terenas for the disposal of Alterac and openly expressing his desire for a share of the pie.
Terenas, who dreamt of a unified humanity, naturally wouldn't admit it. He flatly denied the suspicions of the Kingdom of Gilneas.
But quite despicably, this fellow turned around and began to coerce Alterac, clearly showing his intention to keep everything for himself without giving other nations even a drop of soup.
Genn, who had not yet become the 'Old Wolf', was instantly enraged. He felt that all the previous nonsense was just a way of playing him for a fool.
Gilneas immediately announced its withdrawal from the Alliance. Whoever wanted to pay for the maintenance of the Orc internment camps could do so; Gilneas would no longer bear the responsibilities and obligations of the Alliance.
King Thoras of Stromgarde had also been eager to take a bite out of Alterac from the start. He had long been envious of the fertile lands and prosperous people of Hillsbrad.
Terenas' stingy attitude drove away Gilneas. Having failed to gain any benefits, Thoras also took the opportunity to announce his withdrawal from the Alliance. Along the way, he encouraged nations like Kul Tiras and Dalaran to leave as well, leaving Lordaeron to manage the Orc internment camps by itself.
Andreas had long seen through Dalaran. This independent magical city-state, which prided itself on being free and enlightened, had no principles to speak of, siding with whoever held more power.
In any case, Dalaran had plenty of money from its trade with the High Elves; the maintenance costs of a mere internment camp wouldn't trouble them.
Brunhilde also didn't expect Terenas to be so stingy. After Gilneas and Stromgarde withdrew, she followed suit and expressed her refusal to follow a selfish leader.
Ultimately, these three human kingdoms decided to withdraw from the Alliance. Member states like the Dwarves and Gnomes remained uninvolved and did not take a stand regarding this internal quarrel among the human nations.
The Kingdom of Stormwind still needed help from Lordaeron. Although Terenas' actions were despicable to Llane, he could only swallow his negative emotions for the time being.
Daelin of Kul Tiras had a fiery temper, but that didn't mean he let his muscles control his brain.
As the king of a nation, although Daelin often did impulsive things driven by emotion, withdrawing from the Alliance concerned the fate of all Kul Tiras. He barely suppressed his dissatisfaction and did not publicly voice an opinion, continuing to stay in the Alliance while playing deaf and dumb.
Kul Tiras was a maritime kingdom with limited resources on its islands. To grow the nation, trade and cooperation with land-based nations were essential.
Daelin's neutral stance at least avoided offending either side, allowing him to continue maritime trade with all human kingdoms as usual.
In this timeline, Daelin had not lost his loved ones in the war, his hatred for the Orcs was not as intense, and he wasn't particularly opposed to the establishment of internment camps. Moreover, Kul Tiras had deep pockets, and the cost of maintaining the camps was negligible to them.
Lord Lex of the Barov Family had seen through Terenas. Lordaeron was clearly planning to strike at Alterac, which had lost its king and was temporarily in chaos and decline.
After the Alliance meeting ended on a sour note that day, Lex did not voice any opinion for the moment. He urgently returned to Terenas to gather the various nobles of Alterac and informed everyone of Lordaeron's attempt to annex them.
No country lacks those who sway with the wind. A portion of the minor nobles wanted to take the opportunity to side with the rising Lordaeron, but the major nobles, including Raven Hill and Barov, firmly stated they were unwilling to be annexed by another country.
Alterac was also an ancient nation with a history of over 2,000 years. As long as this banner remained, the major nobles whose interests were tied to it could gather under the name of the Kingdom of Alterac and continue to develop steadily.
Once they joined Lordaeron, no one could be sure if they would maintain their current status. After all, to Lordaeron, the nobles of Alterac were just outsiders.
After a basic consensus was reached within the country, Barov and Raven Hill—one in the east and one in the west—secretly contacted Thoras and Genn respectively. At the cost of increasing trade cooperation and waiving some taxes, they secured the full support of the two nations, which were already displeased with Lordaeron.
With strong backing, the Barov Family, supported by Gilneas, Gilneas, and Stromgarde, publicly announced their withdrawal from the treacherous Lordaeron Alliance and declared themselves independent.
Lex was advanced in years, and his energy had significantly declined in recent years. The young and capable Alex ascended to become the new King of Alterac.
The first order King Alex issued after taking office was to rebuild the symbol of Alterac—the capital, Alterac Castle, located in the snowy mountains.
Terenas was furious when he learned of this. The prize he thought was in his grasp had flown away right before his eyes. He immediately issued a call for a crusade in the name of the Alliance, attempting to forcibly send troops to conquer Alterac.
However, Terenas' actions had long ago caused dissatisfaction among the Alliance nations. Including Dalaran, Kul Tiras, and the Kingdom of Stormwind, not a single nation responded to his call.
The great war with the Orcs had caused massive losses for the Alliance. As the primary nation and the leader, Lordaeron's damages were naturally not small either.
The Capital City of Lordaeron was still in ruins, and the entire territory was filled with the remains of towns waiting to be rebuilt. Even Lordaeron's own citizens did not support this war, and the officials Terenas sent to various places to recruit new soldiers harvested very little.
Coupled with the news of Alterac, Gilneas, Gilneas, and Stromgarde preparing for war, the ministers within Lordaeron jointly petitioned Terenas, hoping he would reconsider the decision for war.
"Heh~"
Andreas sneered and shook his head. "The resentment of the Menethil family has lingered for a thousand years without dissipating. Every generation of the King of Lordaeron is so stubborn, no wonder..."
The second half of the sentence was left unsaid, and Prisim, who was kneeling on one knee before Andreas, was not so tactless as to ask.
"Continue to gather intelligence, though I estimate this war probably won't happen."
Andreas said calmly, "Next, I will head to the Lost Isles to discuss matters with the Draenei. Just in case, if there are new developments in the Eastern Kingdoms, deliver the intelligence directly to the High Council."
"Yes."
Although the Dark Portal had been closed, Andreas vaguely remembered that this interstellar portal would likely open again within a few years.
Andreas had little interest in going to Draenor to pursue the Orcs, but the Draenei were always worried about their kin left behind on Draenor. Given the chance, they would certainly send troops through the Dark Portal to bring their compatriots from Shattrath, Karabor, and Auchindoun back to Azeroth.
Andreas' visit to the Draenei this time was precisely to discuss this issue with Velen.
Draenor was a world without global protection; both the Burning Legion and the Void Forces could unscrupulously extend their reach here.
However, this didn't mean Draenor was worthless. Andreas planned to discuss it carefully with Velen to see if they could turn the dying Draenor into a large-scale outpost in the universe.
More than six years have passed since the Draenei took root in the Lost Isles. They have gradually adapted to life on Azeroth and begun to expand their footprint to the surrounding island groups of the main island.
Of course, this process has not been smooth sailing. The Naga, overlords of the ocean, often cause trouble for the Draenei's explorations, and the Pygmies, indigenous to the main island, frequently ambush Draenei merchant caravans traveling in the wild.
When Andreas and Celeste arrived together at Denali, the new capital built by the Draenei at the foot of a volcano, they happened to encounter a new round of attacks launched by the Pygmies living on the outskirts of the volcano.
Since fleeing Draenor, Marlard had been quite despondent due to the death of his sister. The role of Defender was temporarily managed by Nuptorn on behalf of Archmage Akama, and the once-naive Yrel had now become Nuptorn's adjutant.
While Nuptorn led the Draenei Defenders to resist the Pygmy invasion, Yrel quietly led a small group of elites to the seaside, using the potent venomous blowdarts commonly used by the Pygmies to kill a small squad of Naga.
"...Who on earth taught you such a sinister trick?"
Andreas didn't know whether to laugh or cry as he looked at the hoofed girl before him. The Naga were not a race that took losses lightly; under Yrel's design, they quickly charged out from the beach and slaughtered their way into a Pygmy village.
The Pygmies, attacked from the rear, fell into chaos. Nuptorn, who was well-prepared, immediately increased the intensity of the assault. Pincered from both sides, the Pygmies were quickly routed, and these wicked, cruel little dwarves soon fled in panic.
Yrel curled her lip indifferently. "Is this considered sinister? It's just a normal way to divert trouble elsewhere, and... didn't you teach me this?"
'Did I...?'
Andreas had absolutely no recollection of ever teaching Yrel such a tactic.
*Cough~*
Velen gave a light cough, interrupting Andreas' thoughts. "Regardless, any strategy that can reduce our people's losses is a good one. Yrel, go and attend to your duties; try to make sure the Pygmies learn their lesson this time."
"Yes!"
The valiant hoofed girl swished her tail as she walked out. The ornate plate armor she wore made a crisp clanking sound as she moved, and the crystals embedded in the armor flickered with a soft golden light under the infusion of Holy Light power.
Compared to her sister Yrel, Samara's achievements were no less impressive. She had now become a high-ranking Draenei priest, serving as Velen's assistant to help the Prophet handle affairs.
Unlike the naturally outgoing Yrel, Samara preferred to sit in an office handling official business. The two sisters' differing personalities determined the different paths they chose.
Velen led Andreas toward the core of the new capital, Denali—the Great Hall of Holy Light—with Samara following at their side.
In normal logic, people wouldn't usually build a city at the foot of a volcano, especially an active one.
However, the Naaru fleet, led by Tempest Keep, was now stationed at the crater, absorbing the volcano's geothermal energy to charge the ships and channeling the excess energy to provide for Denali's needs.
Although Andreas wasn't quite clear on the principles, according to Archmage Hataru, the excess energy dissipated by the volcano was supplied to every aspect of the new capital. Expenditure and production formed a delicate balance, ensuring that this active volcano would absolutely not erupt.
The Draenei's crystal technology was highly advanced. This efficient method of converting geothermal energy greatly interested Andreas. Over the past few years, Night Elf researchers and Draenei technicians had increased their exchanges, and both sides had gained much.
Since the Draenei had been busy clearing troubles around the Lost Isles for the past few years, they had no time to participate in the war against the Orc invasion. Andreas had come this time to tell the Prophet about the course of the war in detail.
"As expected, it was the Burning Legion pulling the strings behind the scenes."
Velen spoke with a sense of self-reproach. "I didn't expect that the mage gentleman who appeared so friendly back then was actually parasitized by a fragment of Sargeras' soul. May the Holy Light bless Medivh's soul so it may find release."
Andreas curled his lip subtly. He knew Medivh's soul would not dissipate so easily.
The Guardian of Tirisfal would still haunt Karazhan even in the 7.0 version. Andreas even suspected this fellow had long since become an immortal demigod soul.
"There's no need to worry about Medivh. Being able to escape the shackles of his body and Sargeras' control might actually be a form of release for him."
Velen didn't know much about Medivh's situation. Although he couldn't temporarily understand Andreas' words, he didn't ask further.
"So, Andreas, you believe the Dark Portal will open again within a few years?"
Andreas shrugged and said, "Exactly. It's a simple logical deduction."
"Draenor is on the brink of death. That barren world can no longer support millions of Orcs."
"The Orcs who fled back to Draenor will surely tell the clans staying behind about the Horde's experiences on Azeroth. If they don't want to be trapped on Draenor until their entire race starves to death, finding a new habitable world is imperative."
Velen frowned and stroked the white beard on his chin. "How can an interstellar portal be so easy to establish? The Dark Portal was only formed under the guidance of the Burning Legion by sacrificing countless lives on Draenor."
Andreas shook his head and said, "I'm not clear on the specifics, but I estimate the Orcs won't sit around waiting for death. As the only rich planet they can currently observe, reopening the Dark Portal to enter Azeroth is only a matter of time."
"However, I don't know if they plan to continue a full-scale assault on Azeroth or if they have other plans."
Even when his memories were still vivid, Andreas couldn't possibly remember all of Azeroth's history. For instance, the reason for the Orcs' second invasion of Azeroth was something Andreas hadn't recorded at all.
Velen didn't dwell on the Orcs' goals either. His foresight could only bring him fragments of what might happen in the future; it was impossible to precisely see the distant future.
"Alright, regardless of the reason or how the Orcs restart the Dark Portal, this is indeed an opportunity for the Draenei."
Velen said firmly, "We must re-establish a connection with Draenor and bring back our kin who decided to stay behind on that dying world."
Given the Draenei's gentle nature of being kind to others, combined with physical qualities and magical affinity not inferior to the Night Elves, as well as their advanced technology, even the more hot-tempered Tyrande and Maiev had no objections to forming an alliance with them.
With the Night Elves acting as intermediaries, Prophet Velen quickly obtained permission from Lothar, the Supreme Commander of the Alliance, after meeting him. Yrel led a portion of the Draenei forces to garrison at the Keep to closely monitor the movements of the Dark Portal.
Lothar and Llane had already left the Kingdom of Lordaeron and returned to Elwynn Forest. The disturbances in the north had nothing to do with them for the time being.
To rebuild Stormwind City and repair the heavily damaged territory of the Kingdom of Stormwind, the wealth King Llane had brought to Lordaeron was certainly not enough. To this end, he had to thicken his skin and borrow reconstruction funds from the various nations of the Alliance.
Fortunately, during the more than two years they spent together, the northern nations had gained a deep understanding of King Llane's character. Even the three kingdoms that had already withdrawn from the Alliance expressed their willingness to open their purses generously.
It wasn't that they had too much money with nowhere to spend it; Gilneas and the other two nations held the same thought as Lordaeron, wanting to use this to win over the Kingdom of Stormwind while everything was still waiting to be rebuilt.
King Llane took note of the favors borrowed from each country, preparing to repay them one by one when he found the opportunity in the future.
Reconstruction work for the Kingdom of Stormwind had begun. Both Lothar and Llane were temporarily unable to leave, so the duties of the Supreme Commander of the Alliance were temporarily handed over to the rapidly growing Turalyon.
Andreas took the opportunity of visiting the Kingdom of Stormwind to provide a loan to King Llane in the name of the Night Elf Republic, strengthening the ties between the two sides.
After handling the final loose ends in the Eastern Kingdoms, Aurora and Feren, seen off by Andreas and the others, departed from Astranaar to serve as ambassadors to Quel'Thalas.
Niana continued to be stationed in Lordaeron as the liaison channel between the Alliance and the Night Elf Republic. The vacant post of ambassador to the Kingdom of Stormwind was taken over by Delier, leader of the Moon Guard.
While Aurora, Feren, and other embassy members set out, the ambassador from Quel'Thalas also arrived at Astranaar via the teleportation transfer in Suramar.
While the curious girl Vereesa was looking around with glowing eyes, Alleria discovered a problem when meeting with the High Council.
Andreas, the Speaker of the Night Elf Republic's High Council, was not present.