22 - Best Intentions

It was agreed that the next day we would meet those individuals I had spoken of.

Sarah said she would visit Gwen at the cottage to ask if she would mind skipping the morning strolls with Ocel for a couple of days, making out she had something pre-arranged. She was noticeably worried about this for fear of offending the woman. She needn't have worried though, for Gwen had been more than understanding and had told her she would come by at the beginning of the week.

So next day arrived and with a bag containing change of clothes and drinks for Ocel, we were ready to embark on our little adventure. There was a particular individual, however, whom I was most insistent on seeing first. One, whom I had a suggestion to put to. Illidan.

I had worn a simple cloak over my more than casual attire, so not to draw too much attention. I had made a compromise with Sarah and did not wish all un-sundry to know of my return yet until we had duly notified those we wished to be in the know.

I conjured a portal to Suramar and slipping my arm around Sarah's waist I pulled up the hood to keep my identity concealed. I moved forward but Sarah stood rigid. I looked at her questioningly.

She smiled warmly and slid the hood from my head. "No," she said. "No more hiding. We will deal with any questions as they come from whatever source."

"But I thought..."

She shook her head. "No, you were right. Our friends are understanding people and they will not squabble about who knew first. I do, however, agree that the person you need to see after we visit all your "new friends", should be King Varian."

I smiled, then I kissed her. "Very well," I agreed. "But, I wish to see Illidan first of all."

She nodded, smiling.

We arrived only a few yards from the house where Illidan had taken Sarah all those months ago. His new abode was only a short distance away.

Ocel had already dozed off, snuggled close to Sarah's breast as she carried him in the sling.

I felt profound enlightenment as we walked the paved streets. Here I was, walking side by side with the woman I loved fiercely and our beloved son. Although it was not the first time we had embarked upon a family outing, remarkably it felt as if it was. I felt like a proud peacock; puffing out its chest and displaying its grandeur by strutting and fanning out its resplendent tail. I did not, I hasten to add, puff out my chest nor did I strut, but the emotions associated with such a display were firing within me with an ever-increasing pulse.

We greeted people as we passed by; a polite nod of the head, a quiet "hello" and each was returned in kind. One or two stared. I assume they thought I looked familiar although no-one stepped forward to enquire. They simply whispered between themselves. I glanced at Sarah. Her lips curved into a soft knowing smile. I took her hand in mine and we continued over a small footbridge.

A few yards to the right of that, a winding path led us through exquisite gardens. The sweet perfume from Starlight Roses filled the air. Their soft pastel shades dotted among the deep green waxen foliage formed an extensive archway which opened to a large ornate courtyard.

Illidan seemed to like his luxury. I could not help but smile. He certainly deserved it after all he had endured and suffered.

On approach to the front door of the opulent abode, we heard someone roar. From the right, we saw a seven and a half foot Night Elf come running around the side of the building. Ahead of him by a few yards was a young Nightsaber bounding straight towards us. It was merely a cub but it certainly gave the Elf a run for his money.

It was actually extremely amusing watching the little cub darting about trying to outrun the elf.

"Is that...?" I asked Sarah.

"Yes," she replied laughing. "That's Illidan."

It was then the amber eyes locked with mine. Instantly, he stopped chasing the Nightsaber and came to a halt a short distance from us. His mouth curved into a broad smile; I could see the characteristic fangs of the elven race glinting in the morning sun.

"Khadgar!" he enthused. He stepped up to me and gripped my hand in a firm handshake. "It is so good to see you up and around."

I was in awe of him. The transformation, or rather, de-transformation was utterly incredible. Images of the Elf in my study flashed over my inner vision – this was the man certainly who I had seen performing the ritual. My mind was just having a little difficulty accepting it was one and the same as Illidan Stormrage.

He towered above me still, and I was, as ever, considerably less muscular than him. "Illidan," I said, my voice betraying the utter amazement at his new appearance. "You look... you look..."

"I –." He paused. "How was it you put it, Sarah?" he asked her.

"Brush up well," she laughed beside me. I nodded in agreement. "And I think Modera would agree with that," she added in a whisper.

I stared at her. She grinned. "Oh, I think he has made quite the impression on her."

"Sarah, please!" Illidan whispered back.

"Don't worry I wouldn't let anything slip in front of Arcaena. But she will have to get used to other females ogling you as will you at men staring at your gorgeous wife."

Illidan nodded with a slightly embarrassed smirk. It seemed his de-demonising had made him susceptible to Sarah's teasing. I had to admit, it was rather amusing.

"I've got her!" A shout came from behind us. I turned to see a beautiful Night Elf walking towards us holding a NIghtsaber cub in her arms. The woman's lop-sided smile told me who she was straight away. I felt my mouth twitching at the corners.

Sarah nudged me. When I looked at her she was grinning. "See? Told you Illidan, watch out."

I laughed, although there was a slight nervousness in the sound. Sarah rolled her eyes at me. "Oh, for goodness sake!"

Illidan laughed along with her. I duly joined their mirth.

"Khadgar!" Arcaena greeted me. She immediately pressed the Nightsaber into my arms. "Perfect timing!" she grinned. "You can deliver this little rascal. Oh! Forgive me!" She gave me a peck on the cheek. "Wonderful to see you breathing again." She giggled.

I do not know what I expected but the welcome from them both was simply incredible. We were all smiling and laughing within moments and the atmosphere was very relaxed. They steered us towards their home. "Erm, what did you mean "You can deliver this little rascal" by the way?" I asked Arcaena as the Nightsaber nuzzled my hand.

"Sorry, Khadgar," Arcaena said. "Illidan has been on a mission to find a new companion for Lhadral."

"No, not a companion, Arcaena," Illidan corrected her.

"A pet then," she said with a smirk. "For hunting with."

My blank expression must have said it all. Sarah explained the horrible incident at the Dark Portal. I was sad to hear the news, I knew how much the hunter had loved his pet. I glanced down at the cub in my arms.

"This cub is for Lhadral?" I asked.

"Yes," Illidan nodded. "I hope he will find her acceptable."

"Oh, I am sure he will. She is beautiful."

Illidan's thoughtfulness in the situation quite overwhelmed me. Perhaps having known him as the former Lord of Outland, Leader of the Illidari, I had considered him averse to such empathy and consideration. It struck home suddenly, how wrong I had been all this time about the man in front of me. I had never doubted his ability to lead, to formulate strategies and fight. But I had seriously thought him incapable of reaching beyond his own domain. "So was this what kept you from visiting?" I asked Illidan.

"Yes, I apologise. I knew however, you would be more than well looked after," he looked at Sarah, his amber eyes warming, then he looked back at me. Another wash of guilt. I had suspected Sarah of being behind the former demon hunter's absence. It seemed I had an enormous amount of study ahead of me in recognising the emotions of all living beings.

I felt the soft caress of Sarah's hand upon mine and I read understanding in her eyes.

The Nightsaber suddenly wriggled then jumped out from my arms. She curled around Illidan's legs as we approached the door to their home. "She is hungry," he explained. "Please go inside, I will only be a moment or two." Illidan disappeared around the side of the building again, followed eagerly by the young cub.

Arcaena laughed. "I remember following him like that around the Black Temple, many years ago now."

"Arcaena!" Sarah laughed.

"Well, it's true," the Night Elf smirked. "Anyway, come in, welcome to our home all of you." She cooed as Sarah passed her, Ocel still sleeping in his sling.

As suspected from the outside view, the house was near palatial with furnishings in rich purples, reds and greens, enhanced by the pale lilac and soft grey stone tiles.

Beautiful statues depicting elven figures from ancient times sat on pillared pedestals along the foyer. A winding staircase led up to the next level but we passed under it towards an opulent reception room. Again, the vibrant colour scheme was abundantly punctuated with the soft pastels of the roses and their glossy foliage.

Large paintings depicting landscapes of an ancient, unspoiled Kalimdor graced the walls. The serenity and majesty of the once enormous continent were beautifully illustrated.

Arcaena invited us to sit then clapping her hands, a young girl appeared. Our hostess whispered to her and then the girl ran off to another room. "Just getting some refreshments," Arcaena explained as she seated herself opposite.

Whether or not my expression conveyed surprise I am unsure but Arcaena laughed. "She is the daughter of friends of ours and she offered her services in helping running this..." her eyes roamed around the room, "...place." She concluded.

Her tone suggested she was not altogether comfortable in such lavish surroundings. "Is this not to your liking?" I asked. My question awarded me a little reprimanding nudge from Sarah.

Arcaena noticed. "Oh, do not scold him, Sarah. To be honest it is far too grand for my liking. I feel out of place. Illidan knows how I feel."

Ocel stirred and Arcaena was immediately on her feet. "Oh, may I? Or is he needing to be fed?"

"He won't need feeding for a while yet," Sarah said as she unclipped the sling and handed over a still sleepy Ocel to Arcaena.

The Night Elf looked down on him with shining eyes and a broad smile. "I used to see him like Sarah, but as his eyes change, I now definitely see him more like you, Khadgar."

My inner peacock was filled with pride again. Such a simple yet genuine statement had me beaming like a mad gorloc. On catching Sarah's look I lowered my head and tried to formulate my facial muscles into a more normal expression. She was not disapproving by any means, she simply let me know I was looking a bit gormless.

"Apologies," Illidan's voice entered the room. "That is the beasts fed, now you have my full attention."

"Beasts? You have more?" I asked.

"Oh, yes. I have erm... found some long forgotten memories recently, and the love of the sabers was one of them. Beautiful creatures."

"What do you do with them? Are you selling them?"

"Oh, no. I have rescued many that were orphaned or injured from the Legion attacks and I am simply ensuring they are in good health before I release them to the wild again."

That said he sat down. I found myself at a slight loss for what to say. There was so much I needed to say, but knowing where to start was eluding me.

"Why don't you two go catch up while Arcaena and I see to Ocel," Sarah suggested.

Excellent idea as always. It may indeed have been easier for me to speak with him if we were alone. Illidan nodded in agreement and he then led the way out into another courtyard.

On our way, we met the young girl who Arcaena had sent to get some refreshments. Illidan grabbed a couple of goblets and a bottle of wine, apologising that she would need to replenish her tray for Arcaena. The girl smiled and said it was not a problem.

"Early for wine is it not?" I asked him.

He laughed softly. "It is never too early for such a wondrous vintage." He stopped beside some seating, draped in soft throws next to a raised flower bed. A sculpted stone structure served as a small table for our drinks. We chinked our goblets and took a sip. It was sublime.

"A very fine vintage indeed," I commented. "I must add it to my cellar."

"I have ample, you will take some with you."

"Thank you." We sipped again. A moment or two passed before I could utter the words I needed to say. "I cannot thank you enough for what you did for me. And for Sarah, of course."

Illidan's amber eyes flared slightly and he smiled. "It was the least I could do, my friend."

"But I was so... well, dreadful..."

"You were merely influenced by a force more powerful than most and you were not the only one. That aside, however, I owed you. You and Sarah, for bringing me back and reuniting me with my wife and my Ill..." He stopped; a wan smile stretched his lips.

It offered me the opportunity to ask what I was curious about. "How does it feel, Illidan? To be as you once were, without the demons, the fel?"

The Night Elf looked up and surveyed his surroundings, gathering his thoughts before answering. "Odd, sometimes; almost as if I am... incomplete. By being purged of those abnormalities, those scars and my suffering, I have somehow... lost myself."

He glanced at me. He smiled in his inimitable way. "And there are other times, like now when I am sitting with a good friend that I count my blessings. I am most grateful that Sarah had the Naaru take a different route to my ending from what I had opted for."

I sighed with relief. I had feared that her intervention in this had perhaps been a grave error of judgement.

He sipped more wine, eyeing me over the rim of his goblet. "Oh, make no mistake, Khadgar, I miss the notoriety, the power, the leading of an army in possession of such tremendous ability and prowess. I lived that life for a very long time. I evolved in more ways than merely physical. I became the demon."

"But your heart was true, Illidan. You still fought the Legion, did everything in your power to preserve our world."

Again his eyes scanned the courtyard and he took time before answering. "Yes. But, there was an enormous cost in doing so."

He obviously needed an outlet and I believe that was what I was for him at that moment. "War always has its cost, Illidan."

He scoffed. "Yes, but usually at the hand of the enemy. Not by the one who others trust to defend them."

"You are talking about Ravencrest. That was a very long time ago indeed..."

"And it makes it no less painful!" He stood abruptly. "I stole those lives. I ended them to empower me! Innocent people who offered their services, their powers to aid in the battle. And I robbed them of their glory."

I put down my goblet. There was an insurmountable amount of inner torment behind those amber eyes. I myself had lost lives who fought beside me; lives which I could have saved, but didn't. Although I did not actively steal their last breaths, I nonetheless had an inkling of what he was going through.

"Illidan, it is a burden all leaders and generals must bear. We must, however, learn from it and become stronger. Let not our past destroy our future. We have all done things we regret, things we could have prevented. What seemed solid reasoning at the time drove us to allow events to develop as they did. But, we are still here, still revered, still powerful and we are better men than once we were."

The Elf turned those molten eyes upon me. After a few moments, they calmed. "I hope I am, Khadgar."

I lifted the bottle of wine and replenished our goblets. Then raising mine I said, "To being better men."

He smiled and raised his also. "And to good friends."

We drank deeply. More relaxed, we sat down again. I told him then of what Modera and Kalecgos had informed me of, the unrest in Lordaeron. He listened carefully, occasionally nodding his understanding. I asked if he would join with me in planning how best to defend our peoples.

"I will help all I can, I can fight there is no doubt. But I admit, without an army, I am going to go into this with an infinitely divergent strategy. One of which I am not entirely sure how to accomplish successfully."

I had given this some quiet consideration before coming to Suramar and now it was the time to see if Illidan would find my sagacious suggestion prudent. "You were an accomplished sorcerer before you became a demon hunter and, I believe, also a skilled mage, at least in some areas."

He nodded.

I continued. "The Alliance seems sorely lacking in a skilled army specialising in the art of arcane. Indeed that is the case in most prestidigitation, out with my own specialities. I put it to you, therefore, that you build a new army. Your leadership qualities and abilities are irrefutable. The people have bore witness to Illidan Stormrage and his skills in very recent times."

He stared at me, somewhat surprised and yet I could sense the cogs were in motion behind those eyes. "And where am I to draw these individuals from?" He asked.

I grinned as I considered a very relieved bartender in the Mage District. "I would think the basement at The Slaughtered Lamb in Stormwind might be a good place to start? There must be many more such covens dotted around and I think those of that persuasion will be more than capable of letting you know where to find them."

His fangs were clearly on display as he laughed wholeheartedly. "Why Archmage Khadgar, there is indeed a politician in you; you have a devious side."

I laughed with him. "Ah, but only with the best intentions."

We clanked goblets again and with surprising synchronicity, we toasted, "To Best Intentions."