~ The unforeseen ~

~ by Anne Shard (alias Odeena Skywalker) ~

Chapter two: Compromises

Many Sentinels were taken aback at the sight of a demon walking freely among them. Although forewarned by their leader, many of them still felt uneasy as Illidan Stormrage walked past them, his head held high, his body tense. Although Illidan couldn't see their faces, he could sense their feelings, and many of them were of hatred or disgust. Suddenly, he felt a familiar presence, and he caught his breath as he heard an all-too-familiar voice.

Illidan.

Despite himself, the demon's voice shook slightly.

It is good to see that you have agreed to help us, Illidan Tyrande said

I'm sorry, but we must make haste, Maiev interjected. There are important matters to be attended. You will have to save it for another time.

Very well, Maiev. Illidan growled.

Maiev smiled coldly as they resumed walking. Furion frowned, but said nothing. Finally, the trio came to a stop in front of a small wooden hut. A few Sentinels quickly stood up as they caught sight of the newly-arrived group; some of them reached for the hilt of their daggers or readied the bows they carried. Illidan took a step back, falling into a defensive crouch.

Furion held up his hand in an imperative gesture. Maiev, who are these women? he questioned.

They are my watchers, Shan'do. I assumed--

I will not be restrained like this, Illidan snapped, straightening up.

Maiev gave a cold laugh. Do you really think that we would trust you enough to let you run freely among us? Come now, Illidan. Don't take us for fools.

I gave my word! Illidan said, his voice rising. He turned to Furion. If that means as little to you--

Maiev, Illidan is right, the druid said quietly. Order them to leave.

Maiev let out a shocked gasp. Shan'do, you have agreed--

--that Illidan should be guarded by you, not your watchers.

But Shan'do--

I will take no further argument on that.

Maiev stared at him for a moment, eyes wide, and then bent her head. So be it., she said quietly, her voice filled with hatred. But you're making a big mistake. With that, she turned abruptly and stormed away, followed closely by her watchers.

Furion sighed, and then rubbed his temples, feeling weary. This is where you'll stay, brother, he said, gesturing towards the hut. It's not much, but at the moment we can hardly afford any luxury.

It's enough for me, Illidan replied quietly.

Very well then, rest now, Illidan. We may be in battle with the demons soon.

The demon nodded, and then stepped inside the hut. Although small, it was clean and welcoming. Green and brown leaves covered the floor; the furnishings - a bed, a cupboard, a small table and two chairs - were made out of wood. Illidan sighed, then sat down on the bed, thinking.

Furion had promised him that he would be free as soon as the war was over. However, he hadn't mentioned in which way it should end, and this left him two alternatives. He could side with the demons and have his rightful revenge on those who had kept him chained beneath the earth for so long - or, he could help the Sentinels drive the remnants of the Legion away from their lands. The first plan was appealing, but for one matter: Tyrande. While hating the Night Elves, Illidan couldn't stand the thought that any harm should come to her. The destruction of her people, should her life be spared, would only make the priestess hate him more.

Illidan heaved a great sigh, and then rested his forehead in his hands, his decision set.

He had no choice, he would help the Sentinels.

___________

Author's Note: I'm sorry for the long wait, but I've been having loads of schoolwork to do; besides, my story is being beta-read by one of my friends, and this takes quite some time, too. I know this chapter is really short, but trust me, the next chapters will be longer & better. Until then - review! Here are the review responses:

Peter Kim: Don't worry, Kael and the Blood Elves are going to make an appearence in the story, and eventually the Naga will join the battle, too. I can't tell more, I'd spoil the surprise.

Destro1990: Wow, thanks! It's OK about the grammar & spelling, everybody makes mistakes. As long as people understand what you mean to say, it's really no biggie, is it? :)

Azzandra: Like I said, my chapters will get longer. And about that bit about Maiev being the only survivor of the Watchers, I meant the 'original' watchers. (Sorry pentru partea cu Romania = oras, ideea era ca locuiesc intr-un oras, nu ca Romania e orasul... oricum, am facut corectarea necesara)

Rowan Seven: Thanks. The story in the Frozen Throne happened only until the point when Kael and Vasj join Illidan, and they conquer Draenor. From then on, it takes an original turn - don't worry, a lot of things will be explained in future chapters. Stay tuned!