Here it is, another chapter for you all. I have been giving this story some time and thought and I feel that it can be a major story focus for me for the new few weeks and months while I update my other stories at a slower pace. But will be updated.
Now I have another announcement, User: Dominator454 has posted a challenge for an Assassin's Creed: Syndicate and Bleach Crossover. He is looking for any willing authors to take up this challenge. For anyone interested please contact him and see if you are willing to take up the challenge and prove your worth as a writer.
Also a passed one thousand reviews, that is a new achievement for me. Sweet! Reviews as at the bottom and it is nearly Christmas, gonna be fun times ahead. Woot.
Transcendence
Chapter 29: New Friends, Worse Enemies.
Jaina looked down at the badge that sat upon her workstation, staring at it with an intent frown. She had never come across anything like it before, for all her knowledge on the magical, this object simply stumped her. For one thing she should have realized that she was not dealing with anything that was connected to the arcane.
Ichigo had told her that his world held no magic, a statement that would likely bring up much debate among scholars on what a world would be like without magic. But aside from that her investigation into the device had borne some fruit, although not much.
The first thing was that the device seemed to possess a deep reservoir of spiritual energies, enough that if released could actually cause substantial damage to this tower. Precautions had been made, but unless the badge was damaged the energies were safely contained. But it was the second discovery that intrigued her the most.
The badge may be of spiritual origin but it was in fact very advanced technology, a mixture between spiritual magic and technology. Something she had not expected to see, not from spiritual entities at all. Almost on all occasions when researching into the spiritual realm and the beings within it has always returned that they are deeply connected to nature and specific magics. But there is absolutely no mention of technology, even the most archaic of machinery is not known of in mythology.
'This is incredible, I wonder if this is because there is no magic on Earth that the spirits looked for another medium to exploit and went towards technology,' Jaina mused to herself, it would make sense considering that the arcane did not exist.
But this also proved to be an issue, she had absolutely no idea how this object could function. She needed to find someone that could not only figure out the inner workings of the device but also have knowledge on the spiritual. Both cases would be tricky, although she was certain that she knew of a few Techno-mages that may be able to help.
While the Arcane only dwells in manipulation of the world around it, there are certain branches of magic can delve into the spiritual medium. She was certain that if the specific functions of the device were uncovered it would not be difficult to work on that. The sooner she learns of the devices function the better, if it was connected to his world somehow it may work in setting up a portal that can locate his world.
"Lady Proudmoore. Ichigo Kurosaki and Adelina have returned, they also bring with them Galen Runecrest and his apprentice Caren Willmourne," the Attendant said, moving in behind the Queen of Theramore and giving a small bow.
Jaina rose from her seat and turned, happy that they had returned early. She had not expected them back after only three days, it would seem that finding Galen had not been a major issue.
"Thank you, please bring them to my chambers," Jaina replied, and as the serf moved off to collect her guests she took a look at the badge.
She could send a letter out to Ironforge tomorrow and see about getting in contact with some of the Gnomeregan Techno-mages. For now she would see about advancing her research into the arcane and dimensional gateways.
Entering her private chamber she waited patiently for her guests to arrive, and in less than two minutes they were already moving through the door. Another thing she found interesting with Ichigo, his lack of formalities when it came to speaking with people. She would often have to listen as Captain Vimes complained about the boy's lack of respect towards rank.
She did not mind it actually, one of his more admirable and tolerable quirks, it was nice to speak with someone candidly even if most had been him making demands. But the few more pleasant conversations had been quite informative. She just hoped that the future was going to be more productive than irritating as the previous had been.
"Hey Jaina, I got Galen," Ichigo said, walking in without knocking and gesturing back towards the magi.
Jaina smiled, he was also not much for introductions either, made him a little more interesting when talking too as well. She then turned to the man in question, his surprise at the bluntness of the Shinigami was not missed, and he turned to Jaina and greeted her warmly.
"Lady Proudmoore, it is a pleasure to meet you again, it has been some years since we last met," Galen said, bowing lightly towards his fellow Archmage.
"And to you as well Galen, it is good to see you are alright. I hope that your excursion in Redridge was not as grim as I had heard," Jaina responded, his disappearance for two weeks could not have been pleasant.
"Nothing too dangerous I assure you, only a few Gnolls and Orcs," Galen replied, smiling slightly as he sounded as if it was not a major hassle.
"He does remember that he was captured right?" Ichigo asked, beside him was Caren and Adelina, the former rolling her eyes and moving to greet Jaina herself.
Caren stood beside her master, and when Jaina turned to look at her she corrected her posture and appeared to school herself for the introduction. Ichigo had to wonder what the point is, he understood ceremony, but this was like an informal visit. No need for such decorum.
"Lady Proudmoore, it is an honor to meet you," Caren said, giving a stiff bow to the Queen of Theramore and one of the most prominent mages in the world.
"The pleasure is all mine, it is not often I meet others outside the city, and an accomplished mage I do suspect. Galen is only known to take on those who he sees to become masters of their craft, and will likely rise to prominence," Jaina replied, smiling at the young magi.
Ichigo may have imagined it but he was certain he saw a blush creep up to Caren's cheeks as she fumbled with a reply. It would seem that she was susceptible to flattery, at least from those she respects. Anytime he said she did something interesting she just brushed it off with something along the lines as it is something she can do.
"Thank you. You are too kind Lady Proudmoore," Caren replied, giving an awkward and likely unneeded courtesy as she tried to recollect herself.
As she moved back a bit to take her seat Ichigo looked at her funny, she was still blushing and looking a little flustered and trying to not seem too spooked. He guessed that it was not often she was given a compliment; guess there was a crack in that hard shell of hers.
"What?" She hissed at Ichigo, seeing him staring.
"You got a little red on you," Ichigo replied, pointing to her cheek, all the while maintaining a completely straight face.
He knew that would annoy her, call it childish but this girl kind of reminded him of Ishida with the way she acts so prim and proper. That annoys the hell out of him, so by that regards he has all rights to screw with this girl as much as he wants. It would certainly improve his mood.
All she did was glare at him before taking her seat with her Master. Ichigo and Adelina followed suite before Jaina took the final seat. It was a tense few second of silence before the meeting started; Ichigo knew that this would be a hard battle for him. Because he had to convince a guy that he was from another world and that he needed his help.
"I assume that Ichigo has told you that I requested your presence on an urgent matter," Jaina said, getting into the meat of the matter quickly.
This would take some time to convey and explain and she would best get it started as soon as possible, any catching up can wait for the moment. They would be working alongside each other on this, and she would do best to leave that to another day. For now it was about her project in sending Ichigo back to his world.
"He did, although what it was he did not mention, I assume it is important if you sent him to Redridge while it was under assault by Orcs," Galen replied.
"It is, depending on the individual you ask," Jaina replied. "What I am about to tell you may seem farfetched, maybe even unbelievable, but I promise you that after careful deliberation with my people and even with those I trust I have determined them to be true."
Galen leaned forward with interest, his eyes shining as he waited for what could be considered one of the greatest revelations in this world's history. Although that is what Ichigo thought, but then he realized that he may not believe them and think that Jaina is pulling a prank.
'Let's hope this doesn't screw up royally,' Ichigo thought privately.
"Ichigo Kurosaki here is not from this world. He is actually a Primal Deity from a world called Earth," Jaina said.
Ichigo glanced at her with a raised eyebrow, curious as to why she mentioned it in such a manner, couldn't she have said he was Human? Although he would suspect that saying the same thing on earth is unbelievable, aliens is a better option than another race of Humans. So maybe making him out to be a different race would make it more believable. After all the Ogres and Orcs are said to have come from another world, and that wasn't myth either.
'This place is weird,' Ichigo mused once more.
"Really now," Galen said, glancing at the substitute who only looked back with a frown as he waited for Galen to speak again. "I thought him strange, and his physical appearance different, but another world. I think I will need a more in-depth explanation."
The next hour was spent in deep discussion; details were given on Jaina and Ichigo's accounts. Questions were asked and answers were given to the best of both their ability, with only the substitute failing to bring up the deeper details of his world. Yet in the entire conversation not a word of protest was made by either mage, although it is likely that Caren was maintaining her silence until her master made his verdict.
"That is an interesting tale, never have heard one like it before," Galen said, his fingers were interlocked and he appeared to be deep in thought.
"You don't believe us?" Ichigo asked, scowling on the outside, but panicking a little on the inside.
If Galen did not support them than the portal would likely be delayed, meaning he would not be able to shave off years of time in getting back home.
"It is not that, I trust Lady Jaina to know her sources and to have something to back up your claim. Otherwise she wouldn't believe it," Galen replied. "It is just hard to believe that there exists another world out there where the Human race exists. It is intriguing, and also seemingly unlikely."
Ichigo did not doubt that, the possibility of this being some kind of coincidence was nonexistent. He may not be a major science whiz but he knew that even in similar environments two similar species diverge while existing in those environments. That is the reason that there existed such diverse Human traits, from skin color to physical appearance.
His Asian traits being one of the enigmas of this world, he is completely unique here because he grew up in a completely separate environment. But the fact that there are two distinct species that are biologically the same yet possess no major physical and biological differences is suspicious. It would either mean that these two worlds have had previous contact, or that the Humans from one world may have been brought to the other.
Either case is impossible to prove without anything to back it up. That there is the problem, while his word was there and also the testimony from Quintis and Shandris he was not from this world. Along with the fact that his Badge as Jaina said did seem alien to her means that he did have some reason to believe he wasn't from here. But still getting others to believe it was going to be hard to do.
"I agree, but with the reasons I have stated: His physical appearance, his badge and even his powers are vastly different from anything on Azeroth. He is most certainly different. This gives me cause to suspect, but it is the fact he is an actual deity that shows he is not normal," Jaina replied.
Again Ichigo didn't get why she was calling him a deity, he wasn't really. Sure Shinigami did often translate into Soul Reaper or God of Death, but that doesn't mean much, because you call something a god doesn't mean they are. Besides Kami mean spirit rather than god. But he guessed why these people thought him as such; his powers were certainly on a level above that of a normal person.
"Yes, I bore witness to some of that power myself, and I admit it took me by surprise how much he wielded," Galen replied, referring to his Getsuga Tenshou that he used against the Abomination. "The use of spiritual forces is not uncommon in this world, but Humans have not been known to harness it. Only rumors of the Wildhammer Clan of Dwarves in the Highlands. But nothing more."
"Were I come from the only thing we use is spiritual power, we don't have magic or anything else," Ichigo replied.
"Yes, as you said. Would make sense that to fill the void you would harness this power. But for you to possess so much, and claim to be Human, I find that hard to believe," Galen replied, making the substitute raise a brow at the statement. "In my research entities such as you usually are born with this power due to your heritage or gained it through certain means."
'Clever as always,' Jaina thought.
This is why she wanted him here; Galen was a foremost expert on actual Troll lore and history and knows much of their race and practices. Including the Loa that they worship, he knew much about their species in general and what they were. He likely knew exactly what kind of entity Ichigo was and also the fact that he harnesses all this spiritual power could only mean he was a powerful spiritual entity. This may not prove that he is from another world, but proving him to be an entity such as a Loa would show that he is more than just some insane young man.
"Yeah, I don't know much about Shinigami, well most of them are normal souls that later learn to harness their spiritual power. I think some are just souls of the dead, I mean Rukia told me she died one hundred and fifty years ago," Ichigo replied. "But there are some that were born in the Soul Society, I think some of the Captains are, most of them anyway."
It made him wonder though, if being born rather than ascending to godhood made you more powerful than how was he the exception? Wouldn't he be weaker than the others, he was certainly different compared to the others and his power did rival that of a Captain. For a moment Ichigo thought maybe he was missing something very crucial he should know about.
He shook it off, he was certain that it was nothing he should worry about right now. If it came up again he might look into it but for now he had other things to worry about.
"Regardless, I have called you here for a reason Galen," Jaina started, returning the meeting to its correct course. "I would require your aid in my endeavor to send Ichigo back home."
Galen raised an eyebrow, it was not expected that she would send aid for this particular mission, he had expected his knowledge on his species to be considered but aid definitely so. But then he got an idea on why she wanted his help, he smiled slightly as he realized exactly why she wanted him of all people.
"You want access to the reliquary, the artefacts within could possibly aid you in sending this young man back home," Galen said, understanding fully her reason for seeking him out.
The artifacts of the reliquary of the Wizard's Sanctum are very powerful, many having been collected over the centuries. They are some of the most dangerous and unique items that the Humans, along with other races, of Azeroth have ever used and harnessed. For good or for ill, they have their history in shaping the world in a way none could remember save for the myths that surrounded them.
"That is a very big favor you are asking, one that I do not know if I can simply do," Galen said.
"I simply ask, nothing more, if you can aid us I would be in your debt," Jaina said.
Galen was silent for a moment as he glanced at the substitute Shinigami, he could tell that the boy was desperate. It would seem that he held a firm belief that his presence could make their mission to create a portal back to his world speed up. He did not know if that was possible, but he was certain that the artefacts in his possession would be useful in aiding in the process.
'After all, most of them came from Karazhan, Medivh was more knowledgeable on the demonic and the Nether than anyone else alive. With these artefacts it may be possible to replicate his methods,' Galen mused to himself privately.
But he did not know if he should give them up to Jaina, he may trust her but he needed to learn more about the boy. He would need to speak with Jaina on this privately and get her own thoughts on the matter. Without Ichigo present of course, he couldn't let him make the statements biased. After all you do not want to upset a Primal Deity, they can be quite temperamental.
'Ichigo certainly does have an aggressive personality,' Galen thought, before he glanced at Jaina and smiled pleasantly.
"We can discuss it over lunch I suppose; it is getting well past midday," Galen said, rising from his seat and stretching, eliciting several pops from his joints.
Jaina looked at him for a moment and smiled, understanding fully what he wanted. She stood and gave a light stretch before she moved for the door.
"Yes, that would be good," Jaina replied, before she looked to the substitute. "Ichigo, why don't you and Adelina show Caren to the inn and see about getting something to eat. We can reconvene in an hour."
Ichigo was perplexed for a moment as to why they would be separating, but he just shrugged before getting up and beckoning his two companions to follow. Adelina stepping beside him as they moved out the doorway and Caren was close behind. As they exited the room Jaina turned and regarded her fellow Archmage.
"So my lady, still like Dalaran Swiss?" Galen asked, smiling slightly as the Queen of Theramore let out a small laugh.
"I still find it hard to believe, even if you convinced Lady Jaina of it," Caren said, looking at the meal that had been set out before them.
A large course had been presented to the three teenagers, cooked and diced fish and chicken made into mortrews were present. With side dishes of bread and cheese, two separate varieties, and some cooked fruits and vegetables. Besides the meals there were small bowls of honey and salt as a sweetener for their food. It was a typical lunch for a normal working individual in Theramore. Something that Ichigo had seen regularly for lunch meals since living in Theramore.
It was odd really but it would seem that dinner was not a major staple in their cuisine. In fact they had more food at lunch rather than anything else; supper was usually a small meal or none existent. It was strange really, but that was how they did things here, load up on carbs in the day and use them afterwards.
Although he did recall a few things while working at the Clinic, being the son of a doctor did have its benefits. He did remember that dinner should actually be smaller than lunch due to the fact that the body doesn't require it at night. It was actually a much healthier solution to have a large lunch and maybe breakfast to set you through the day. With dinner being something to settle you in case you are hungry.
"Yeah well it is true, I got trapped in the Twisting Nether and got pulled here somehow," Ichigo replied, taking some of the chicken mortrew and putting in some honey and then a little bit of salt.
It was a very good dish and he had come to like it, although the pepper seemed to be quite potent in these dishes and they used it a lot. But still it was one of his new favorites, he had always avoided some western dishes and foods back home. Usually because he never found any interest or like towards them, now with no choice he had a chance to experiment and see what he liked. Had to admit these people certainly knew how to make good food.
He always thought that they ate simple porridge or oatmeal; it was another surprise for him to see how wrong he was about this world. Again he was made to realize just how different this world is to what he thinks it to be. He had been doing that a lot with a few things here, maybe he should try to be a bit more open minded.
"Yes, but I am surprised that you survived in the Nether for so long. Several days travelling through that realm and suffering from such grievous wounds. I am shocked that you survived, with Fel poisoning as well," Caren said, actually sounding surprised and in awe at the retelling of what he could recall from his time in the Nether.
"Yeah, not exactly pleasant, I at least hope I won't have to go through that again," Ichigo replied.
"Do not worry, from what I am aware portals only use the Nether as a medium. Even when I teleport I create two breaches in space using the Nether as a conduit. It is very simple," Caren replied. "Although Dimensional Gateways such as the one you are making are different, the trip should be instantaneous."
"That's good to hear, at least it won't be like the Dangai where I had to run to the exit within four minutes or be killed," Ichigo said, smiling at the memory of his invasion of the Soul Society and his run in with the restrictive current and the Cleaner.
Caren gave a non-committed hum before she dug into her meal, having the fish mortrew for herself along with Adelina. There was a comfortable silence as they dug into their food and filled their bellies.
"I still find it hard to believe," Caren said aloud, and Ichigo groaned at her statement.
Had he paid more attention he may have noticed that she seemed to be deep in thought, she was trying to look over something imaginary, looking for cracks and flaws. Her eyes darted around at nothing as her mind worked to figure out the strange conundrum.
"I told you already, what would I gain from lying about this? You have seen me fight and listened to what I told you. It's a bit detailed to be something made up don't you think?" Ichigo said, trying to put this issue to rest. "Everything is true, from where my powers come from to how I got into the Nether, and then how I got into that ruins in…"
"That is what I find so strange," Caren said, interrupting the substitute as he tried to speak. "How you came to be here."
"Well I didn't exactly land in the safest and most hospitable of places, everything wanted me dead," Ichigo replied, from Elves to tree monsters, but he couldn't deny it was a lot better than the Nether.
"Not that, you said you saw a golden light behind you, and maybe a runic circle?" Caren inquired, and Ichigo looked thoughtful for a moment before answering.
"Yeah, why?"
"That is the makings of a summoning circle; it is the only possible way you could have been summoned out of the Nether," Caren replied, sounding perplexed and a little suspicious as she continued the questioning.
"I don't get it, how does that mean anything?" Ichigo asked.
"Summoning circles require two things, a specific design in the runic circle to perform the task and a guiding mind to control it," Caren said. "The only way you were summoned out of the Nether is if someone summoned you directly. That means someone knew about you and brought you here on purpose."
Ichigo was silent for a moment, looking at her in surprise as he tried to think of a possible reply. Yet despite that he couldn't think of anything to say. It was odd that he was on the verge of death and was miraculously summoned; he had close calls before and was saved. Whether they were to his relief or not, but that one was different, especially if what Caren said was true.
If that circle was meant to summon someone directly, who on Azeroth could have known about him?
Or it was possible that he was just in the vicinity of the one summoned.
"The demon that tried to kill me, that Dreadlord," Ichigo said, thinking for a moment. "Maybe it was meant for him."
Caren seemed to think for a moment, her eyes narrowing before she gave a shrug and seemed to brush the entire situation off.
"Maybe, if you got caught in the summoning it would make sense, but we will never know. It would seem that fate was on your side that day then," Caren said, dismissing her previous claim and theory.
It was too overly complicated to think about; after all it could have been coincidence that he was pulled along with the Dreadlord. Likely those that summoned the Dreadlord were surprised that Ichigo had come along and that resulted in them being slaughtered.
But Ichigo was having some doubts, after all the Dreadlord seemed to be just as confused as him at the summoning. Along with the people in the chamber as well, they seemed to be just as shocked as he was that the Dreadlord was there. In fact they were trying to get rid of him, badly. So, if it wasn't the Dreadlord that was summoned but him and the Elves weren't the ones summoning him?
'Who was it that did the summoning?' Ichigo mused.
Galen and Jaina sat comfortably on the windowsill overlooking the docks of Theramore, the many ships and workhands easily seen from the top of the Citadel Tower. Both the mages admired the view and did not speak as they ate the freshly baked bread with Dalaran Swizz cheese, a personal favorite of Jaina's as Galen had said.
"I am surprised you came to me, even more so as the reasons behind it," Galen finally spoke.
"I know that this is much to ask, but I feel that I must do this," Jaina said.
"You do know that those relics were sealed for a reason, a good one, especially considering who they were used by," Galen responded.
Jaina nodded her head, Medivh was considered a dangerous man, his knowledge and what he did with it was something that condemned hundreds of thousands to die over the last three decades. Yet she knew that it was the man to use them rather than the items themselves, magic was a tool to be used rather than rule.
"The relics are not the danger, only those who use them. You know you can trust me with them, but I sense that me using them is not the issue here," Jaina said, before sighing as she narrowed in on Galen's concerns. "It is Ichigo I suspect."
"I have a few concerns, and most of them are quite legitimate," Galen replied, leaning against the frame of the window and looking at her seriously.
"You do not believe he is from another world?" Jaina asked.
"No, I believe that you believe that, but what I do not know is if he is not a threat," Galen replied.
Jaina had to admit she was concerned at first as well before her meeting with him, the thought of a being like a Shinigami was something she did not take lightly. Especially with the mentality of a young teenager, aggressive and often skirting authority to get his way. It was a combination that would result in untold chaos if he were to have an outburst and decide to vent his frustrations, and with very few things that could stop him.
"I trust him; he has proven to me that he is not a threat. He may be a little headstrong, but he is no danger," Jaina replied.
"How can you be so sure?" Galen asked.
"Because of what he did to prove it," Jaina replied, remembering his arrival here and his actions afterwards, those vindicated him in her eyes. "After he arrived he took part in an investigation of a massacre, I am not sure you are aware yet, but there was a massacre at Shady Rest."
Galen's eyes widened in surprise, he had not been informed of this, although his mission to reclaim the Book of Ur had taken up his time along with his capture. But none the less he paid attention as the Archmage continued to speak.
"When the town was destroyed Ichigo took part, his actions were actually instrumental in determining the culprits. He went to extreme lengths to find those responsible, he felt responsible for what happened to Shady Rest. For not being able to save everyone there when it was destroyed," Jaina replied, looking at Galen seriously. "He fought hard and did some outrageous things; things that I personally think were foolish and would have caused a great deal of strife in the future. But in the end he was the one who helped bring in the traitors and conspirators and name those responsible. His actions prevented a possible open conflict with the Horde."
"Is that all?" Galen asked.
"No, he did it before he came to me, came to ask me about sending him home." Jaina replied.
Galen understood that, recalling how he had to plead with Jaina about being sent home so that he could help his friends and family that were in danger. The boy was desperate, and even the recollection he could see that Ichigo was worried still, and that his presence in this endeavor would bring him some comfort.
The boy was scared and wanted to get home, as hastily as possible.
Yet despite these desires he went out of his way to find criminals that had destroyed a village that he had no part of aside from being unable to defend it. A passerby and yet when he came out of it he chose to remain behind to find those responsible and make them pay. That spoke volumes of his character, and reminded him of that boy he met just yesterday.
"I see, I suppose that reinforces my own opinion on him then," Galen replied.
"You had no doubts?" Jaina asked, surprised that he would trust the boy so quickly.
Sure even herself had quickly been taken in by him but even then she was still wary. She wondered what Ichigo could have possibly done to earn Galen's favor so quickly, and made him consider without much deliberation to help.
"I can see it in him, when he spoke of entering Stonewatch and then Morganth's Tower. I saw it in the inflection of his voice and the way he worded it. One hundred Orcs and dark sorcery is what he faced. He said to me he went to Stonewatch to protect the pass so they could continue, he didn't know how he would have done it and had planned to just lead the Orcs off somehow," Galen replied, and shared an amused smirk with Jaina at the prospect of such a thing.
Jaina would have sighed at that, again he is off doing dangerous things. It was good that Adelina was with him, that girl may appear to be naïve to the world at large and the cultures in it, but she had a good head on her shoulders. Something Ichigo surely needs.
"He helped stop the Orcs so that those people would be safe, he came through fighting a powerful sorcerer and his minions to save me," Galen replied. "He doesn't care about numbers or who is in danger. If it is one hundred or one person, he came through for them and chose to protect them simply because he had to. No hesitation, no regret, no boasting of his accomplishments. Simply something he needed to do."
Jaina nodded, she had learned much about Ichigo in the time he had been here and from what he had done. He valued protecting those that couldn't and the people he considered friends. He may be frowning and dismissive along with trying to appear a lone wolf, yet he is someone that values everyone close to him and even those near that he can help.
"Will you help us?" Jaina asked.
"I will, the boy saved my life and my apprentice, I owe him for that," Galen replied.
Jaina was pleased with that, it would be good for Ichigo to know that they had the support of Galen in this research. With his help and the artefacts in his care they would be able to make a lot of headway in finding a way back to his world.
"Thank you, I am sure that Ichigo will be pleased." Jaina said.
Galen nodded his head and made to depart, but he stopped for a moment and thought on something. His research would be difficult to perform, mainly because moving between these two points would rouse some suspicion and the fact he was moving some of the relics as well. Without proper procedure this could cause a few headaches for him, mainly him being arrested for relocation of dangerous items without permission.
He wanted to help, the boy saved a lot of lives the day before and to not at least help in this endeavor did not sit well with the Archmage. He would need to find a way to improve on this, to make it so that the relics could come here without rousing too much suspicion. Instantly a thought came to mind.
"I have a proposition for you Lady Jaina," Galen said, earning a curious raised eyebrow from the Queen.
Ichigo ascended the steps of the Citadel Tower and towards the highest chamber, they had a nice long lunch and were eager to get back to the meeting. At least the substitute was, Caren was busy explaining Human culture to Adelina. The druid and mage had actually hit it off and were speaking together very candidly, deep in discussions on both their respective cultures.
'Surprising how they can actually stand one another.'
Adelina was a bubbly and very friendly girl, with a deeper serious side that she would bring out when the time came. Caren was a near opposite and was prim and proper, never did she show any interest in anything and seemed to care more for doing her job than relaxing. To see them both talking was more surprising than anything, almost similar to Orihime and Ishida.
'Yeah, but it is still weird, I am so sure that Ishida has a crush on Orihime or something.'
Ichigo snorted at that comparison and the reason as to why they got along, he surely doubted that was the case with Adelina and Caren. But still it was funny to think that the stuck up Quincy had a thing for Orihime and was only hanging around to try and work up the nerve to tell her. That would be a laugh.
"Your hierarchy is most interesting, we do have something similar but usually the titles are not inherited from parent to child," Adelina said, referring to the noble caste in Stormwind.
"It is different; each house has proven their worth in the past and was rewarded for it along with their descendants. Some maintain their family's legacy by following in their ancestors footsteps. Others sadly are too proud and do nothing with it and simply survive off the fame of their family name," Caren replied, although her words had a bit of bite to them when she finished, likely having very low opinions of those that squander their chance to do something with that name rather than hang on to it for dear life.
"What of your house? You said you were part of a noble family," Adelina inquired.
For a brief moment a ghost of a smile appeared on her face, before it morphed into a scowl and then went back to a neutral one. Ichigo found that interesting, and wondered as to the cause of her sudden mood shifts.
"The Willmourne House came to be during the First War, my grandfather was a Captain then and distinguished himself in battle by leading forces in the Grand Hamlet against the Orcs. He rallied the people there and was able to repel the Orcs from the region. He defended the land for nearly two years before it was lost at the end of the war," Caren replied.
Ichigo could hear the pride in her voice as she spoke, it would seem she likely held her grandfather in high regard. That was more than likely, considering the small smile on her face.
"For his services he was knighted and became a noble, his family rose to prestige with a few others and he was hailed as a hero. Until his death in the Second War by the traitor Aiden Perenolde, but he was avenged," Caren continued, despite this her face did not morph into a scowl until she spoke again. "From there my father became the leader of the family and took it upon himself to spread their influence, and has done it well. But that is not important really."
Ichigo could tell that she was annoyed, scowl or not, likely she did not have a good standing with her father if that was the case. Maybe something happened that she disapproved of, she did seem to hold pride in her Grandfather, but not her father. Maybe it was the fact her father may not have done anything with the family name other than live off it.
He didn't voice his thoughts or question them, they were hers to deal with and share if she wanted. He wasn't going to pry, something that was shared with Adelina who did not ask her to elaborate. Instead they went silent as they ascended the last few steps. As they moved over the lip Ichigo saw Jaina and Galen speaking on something, with them both was Tervosh and Aegwynn who listened as their Queen spoke.
"…I am sure it will be no issue," Jaina said.
"Are you certain?" Tervosh asked.
"No, this is actually a very good opportunity for us, if we can get this to go through we can set up better trade between Stormwind and Theramore. Also this would improve inflow of expeditions from the Explorers Guild and Magical Institutes." Jaina said, sounding quite pleased. "It will be perfect for…"
"Yo, Jaina, everything alright?" Ichigo called over, just enough to alert her he was back.
Jaina looked over her shoulder and saw that Ichigo, Adelina and Caren had returned. She gave a smile and motioned them forward, she had much to tell them and most of it was good.
"So, what's up?" Ichigo asked.
"Well, we have come to an agreement. Galen has allowed for the artefacts within the reliquary to be used in our project, he will even see about aiding us in finding other avenues as well," Jaina replied.
"That's good, does that mean you can get me home quicker?" Ichigo asked, looking to the male magi.
"Some of the artefacts in the vaults were used by Medivh and he had extensive knowledge on the Nether and creating portals," Galen replied. "They will certainly be of use to you."
Ichigo felt some relief, knowing that Galen would help them and give the relics he had in order to further their goals to getting him home. But actually getting more help was good, if Galen could find other means to send him home he would be grateful.
"Yes, I will return to Stormwind and look through the vaults and see what could be of use," Galen replied. "Once we set up here I will have them transferred over."
"Master, is it not dangerous and highly illegal to be giving out these objects? It is forbidden that they are to be taken from the vault under any circumstance unless permitted by the Archmages of the Sanctum," Caren said, sounding concerned about actually releasing these items to others who have likely no idea how to use them.
"It is, but I have a way around that, one being the establishment of a new reliquary vault," Galen said, smiling as he gestured around. "And Theramore is the perfect place for such a thing."
Caren's eyes widened, clearly she had not expected such a declaration from her master. The creation of a reliquary was not something just done out of the blue, it required careful planning and legitimate reason to be done. She had no idea how he was going to pull it off, but it seemed almost certain with the way he said it and was smiling.
"But master, to create a reliquary is a very large endeavor and not easily done. How do you plan on creating one here? Let along having someone manage it," Caren asked.
"Easily, Theramore is the only Alliance settlement directly connected to the Mages Institute in Stormwind. And because Kalimdor is mostly unexplored and an unknown territory it will be simple to get the other magi to agree that a base of operation would be prudent," Galen replied.
Since the Mages of Stormwind handled all magical items in the Eastern Kingdoms there was none that handled anything magical in Kalimdor. Because of this they have little knowledge of what kind of magical forces lay hidden in these lands and must either be contained or studied. This was reason enough to create a vault, and because of that he could not only set Theramore up as a house for research, but transfer relics here as well.
Since the Institute worked alongside the Explorers League it was very easy for them to work, as anything that the Dwarves found they would instantly contact the institute. But that could take several days or weeks depending on method of communication and that would not do. Having Theramore here would improve communication and allow for quick on site response.
"With that we will be able to set up on exploring the surrounding regions and also allow me to legally bring artefacts here for storage and research," Galen said, and earning an impressed look from his apprentice.
"That… is quite clever," Caren said, looking for the right word.
"It is, and it gets even better," Galen said, walking forward and placing a hand on his apprentice's shoulder. "I need someone here to look into the building of it, and I think you are the perfect candidate."
"What?" Caren exclaimed aloud, shocked that he would give her such a position. "But Master, I am only fifteen; I cannot possibly be given…"
"Calm down, no need to get too surprised. I ask because you are my apprentice, you know how to run the vaults and I have trained you since you were ten, you are the only person I could trust with setting up the new vault. You practically grew up in those vaults under my tutelage," Galen said.
Caren was a little nervous from the praise, she did not expect her master to give such kind words and a position that she didn't feel she should have. To be a Relic Keeper was not a simple profession, you must be an experienced and well versed magus in not only magic but lore. She was still a novice in her art and not as highly knowledgeable in the world as her master, how he could think she was the perfect candidate was beyond her.
"Master, I do not think I can be a Relic Keeper, not with how I am," Caren said, it was a bit of a wound to her pride to admit that, but she had to.
"It is alright; sometimes it is not just about power and how much you know. But how much you can learn while you are here. Kalimdor is still an uncharted landscape we have yet to explore, so give it time and I believe you will do fine. I trust you with this because I know you, and I know you will do the right thing," Galen encouraged.
Caren was silent for a moment, although the apprehension was still present on her face she nodded to him. If he thought she could do it she would make sure not to disappoint him, he had already sacrificed enough to make her his apprentice, and she wouldn't fail him in this.
"I will do it to the greatest of my ability master," Caren said, giving a deep nod towards her senior magi.
"Excellent, and this may be a chance for you to make some friends, there is more to life than being someone who looks after old relics and tomes," Galen said, smiling wide as he patted his apprentice on the shoulder.
Her anxious and troubled expression was soon replaced with one of irritation.
"I do not need to worry about something like that now, now that I have this new reliquary to manage I will be busier than ever," Caren replied, frowning at her master as she thought him to be making a joke.
"Do try to relax my young apprentice. Besides you will have some people your own age to fraternize with now, so have some fun while you still can. A young girl like you deserves some amusement before you become my age," Galen said, smiling encouragingly at the young magi.
"If you say so master," Caren sighed, knowing this argument very well.
"Good, for now I will need to return to Stormwind, the others will be wondering what is keeping me," Galen said. "I will return when I have everything ready, in that time, Caren see about getting a vault location drawn up. We will be busy for the next few weeks."
"Yes master," Caren replied.
With a few more goodbyes to the rest of the occupants Galen quickly departed, moving to finalize their plans for the future. Ichigo turned to Jaina and smirked slightly, he felt good, it would seem that they were going to get the help they needed and more.
"I did tell you he could help," Jaina said, almost knowing what he was thinking. "Now all that is left is to wait for him to bring the news and then we can begin to work."
"Can't wait," Ichigo replied.
"Also, in that time please do not come back up here," Jaina said, firmly he might add. "These last two days have been quite pleasant without you here, I would like to retain that."
Ichigo scowled at her comment, it was like he was a dog that didn't do something she liked and then kicked him out.
"What? Me taking an interest is an issue?" Ichigo replied.
"No, you are more than welcome to learn, but when you distract me and pester me with annoying questions it makes my job difficult. So do try to be courteous to others, otherwise I may have to send you off more," Jaina replied, a ghost of a smile forming on her lips.
Ichigo felt a vein pop as she made that comment; it really was like she was treating him like a dog!
"But regardless, you should rest up. The next few days will be free for a time," Jaina said. "Also if you are feeling in the need of a distraction I will set up a few jobs for you around Theramore. It will keep you occupied while we wait."
Ichigo was silent for a moment as he thought about it, maybe a little distraction would be good for him. Would give him some time to reflect on a few things and work out some of his problems, he certainly needed to and he had the time. He gave a nod to her and it was settled.
"Caren, I have some lodgings already set up for you, I am sure you would wish to remain within the tower?" Jaina asked, and received a curt nod from the younger mage. "Very well."
Ichigo and Adelina made to leave, going to the stairs and descending them slowly.
"Ichigo," Jaina called, stopping the substitute and giving him an earnest and reassuring smile. "Trust me, I will see to it you are sent home. You have done much in your time here, and I will see to it that you are returned."
Ichigo gave a nod before he continued his descent, following after Adelina and planning on going to the inn. He had a few more hours before sunset and he had nothing to do, maybe he should take up something to pass the time. Maybe see about getting Adelina to teach him how to read common, would come in useful.
Maybe then he could read one of these goddamn books.
Blackrock Spire
"The incursion into Redridge was a failure; you really must keep a tighter leash on your soldiers."
Onyxia looked up at the man upon his throne, glaring at the dark skinned man with a crown of fire upon his head. He was casually resting upon it while he leaned his head into his enclosed fist, appearing annoyed as well as jaded.
"My apologies dear brother, but had you not foolishly sent those Orcs into the region this may not have happened," Onyxia replied, scoffing at the possibility that this was her blunder. "Next time you should think before you act, with all those experiments you are conducting I would have expected a shred of intelligence from you."
He rose from his seat, a wave of black flame expelled from his enclosed fist as he slammed it into the armrest of his granite throne. Skulking down the stairs he approached his sister and glared at her, his molten eyes boring into her golden orbs with hostility.
"Careful now, while I wage war within the spire, you fight the feeble game of politics and backroom dealings these mortal dogs employ," Nefarian said, heckling as he spoke down to his sister.
"Those dealings are the only things that keep you from being noticed, do you honestly think that the Alliance will tolerate your presence here when they learn of you and what you are doing?" Onyxia asked. "They know little about the Dark Horde's presence, and yours, if they did this entire mountain would be under assault as we speak."
"You have my utmost gratitude for that, but your actions as of late have been less than useful," Nefarian said, turning and skulking back to his throne.
"Less than useful? Hah! I have brought the military to its breaking point and the people are beginning to divide. Open rebellion is all but a certainty in Westfall. Those Defias fools are too easy to manipulate and control," Onyxia said, smiling as she examined her dark nails.
"Yet you still delay, I would have that city razed to the ground. Yet even with the Defias Brotherhood instigating civil war and rebellion in Westfall and Elwynn. The King disappearing by means I am certain you are aware of, as well as had a hand in," Nefarion replied, walking up to his throne and giving only a glance back at the raven haired woman that his sister guised herself as.
Honestly she had done well within the last ten years, her manipulation of the Alliance military and politics had drastically weakened the kingdom. With the open rebellion of the Mason's Guild, that would become the Defias Brotherhood, and the loss of soldiers within Elwynn and the outlying regions the people were less than pleased.
It would be only a matter of time before someone made a move, be it his Orc army or the pawns of his sister. Either case would bring the utter destruction of Stormwind, something he was eager to see done. But still he was forced to wait, making sure it was the right moment to strike and deal a crippling blow against his most hated enemy.
"You think so? I merely wait for the opportune time, for when the Alliance is at its weakest and when your forces are ready to march. Remember, that there are more than Humans to contend with," Onyxia responded seriously.
"The Dwarves? Now I know you have gone soft if you fear them," Nefarian smirked as he sat down and looked at her, amused at her glare.
"Remember that they have been holding back your Horde for many years now, do not think yourself mighty just because you wage war with sword and fire. While I do so with cunning and words," Onyxia responded, and her scowl shifted to a smirk when she noticed his clenched jaw and narrowed eyes.
Nefarian had been at war with the Dark Iron Dwarves for years over rule for the mountain, unable to do anything to drive them out. They had at their command a powerful force of elementals and golems that made them difficult to dislodge. Along with the fact they built an entire city near the core of the mountain made it impossible to lay siege to it.
But their greatest obstacle was the Elemental Lord that resided at the very deepest reaches of the mountain's fiery core. Nefarian dared not face that monster, or his legions of elementals and fire spawn, he would not stand a chance and neither would his Dark Horde. It was an issue that was costing him time and resources to deal with and he couldn't take much more of it.
"That is something that needs to be dealt with, immediately," Nefarian said, he did not have the time or resources to carry out this little attack of theirs.
"It is too dangerous, if you are exposed all our plans will be in vain and we also risk the loss of those experiments. We need them," Onyxia said.
"They will count for nothing if the Dark Iron Dwarves continue to push, the inner halls of the mountain are being fought over daily. The Searing Gorge is already lost to me, and with the loss of so many in the Burning Steppes the Dwarves will most likely seize the territory." Nefarian said. "I need you to get rid of this opposition. I do not care who you must bribe and kill, or in your instance, spread your legs to. Get it done."
A growl worked its way into her throat, but she fought it down, this was no time to think of such depraved and baser things that Humans copulate in. Onyxia was silent for a moment as she thought over how best to carry this out; it would take a while to figure out the best means to do so. But she was sure that if she had the time and proper scenario she could do it, but it would not be easy.
"Give me some time and I will see what I can do," Onyxia responded to the demand.
Without another word she raised her hand and willed a portal into existence, not saying a goodbye to her brother she existed his domain. Returning back to her chambers she glanced around to see that none have entered it since her departure, which was good. Best not have anyone snooping around while she was not present.
She had spent years working through backroom deals and dirtying her hands, there was no way she would allow someone to ruin all her hard work. But the final goal was near at hand, and soon all would be complete and ready, and soon the entirety of the Alliance would crumble under her feet.
"My Lady." A knock came to the door.
"Yes?" Onyxia inquired, looking to the door and schooling her features along with smoothing out her dress.
"Lord Bolvar requests your presence," the serf beyond the door called out.
"I will be there shortly," Onyxia said, turning to look in the mirror and seeing her pale skin and green eyes were in perfect order.
She never did like this disguise, too many suiters and deviants looking to bed her. But it did have its uses, even with the hassle of aroused men; no one would suspect the High Councilor as a spy. Especially so with so many allies under her thumb that would defend her so vehemently.
"It is always fun making these mongrels bend a knee, it is almost too easy," Onyxia mused to herself.
Stonewatch Keep, Redridge
Chromie glared at the scene before her, the large open courtyard to the keep was littered with Orc bodies. Over a hundred of them in total, some were burnt and others were cut down, but all the same they were dead.
"They shouldn't have died here," Chromie said, narrowing her eyes.
She watched as the Alliance soldiers were carting the dead off to be buried somewhere, likely a mass grave in the woods. That was not important however, the reason being the fact that this attack was never meant to happen at all.
The Orcs were meant to assault the pass and the Alliance forces there, in the battle Marshal Windsor would swoop in from behind and take them by surprise. After that they would push through the pass and into the Burning Steppes. From there much had been the same aside from larger casualties.
So this was something that confused her greatly, although there was one factor that she knew was to be true and different. Galen Runecrest.
That man was instrumental in the future, or along the lines as to his actions that lead to certain changes in the future. But now they seem to be different, he had disappeared from the timeline for a while along with his apprentice who was meant to die.
"What is happening here? What is this anomaly doing?" Chromie thought aloud.
But before she could process this she felt a ripple in time, a concussive wave of temporal energy that she knew another alteration had been made. A growl escaped her lips as she realized that the damn Dreadlord had made another change in the timeline. They were frequent and very irritating, like raindrops in a pond that continued to ripple and annoy. But occasionally there would be a massive stone thrown in to that pond that would cloud her senses.
"I cannot see anything with the racket he is causing," Chromie growled out.
For some time now they have been trying to reach the Dreadlord and remove him from the timeline to correct the mistakes. But instead his locations in time seem to be temporally locked, unable to venture there and actually reach him. Making it difficult now to stop the changes he has made.
Worse yet he seems to be occupying a single point in time, he has quite literally no future or past self. His entire existence was maintained in a single point in time that they were having trouble zeroing in on. They had to be down to the microsecond of his location in order to get to him, that precision is not easily replicated or done.
'Only a master chronomancer could accomplish such a thing, but she had no idea who could have done it,' Chromie thought, it must be their enemy.
But what is the truest purpose of this? What could they do that would change the timeline so rapidly and greatly by having them go to Eldre'thalas? It did not make sense, but it was causing problems they needed to rectify immediately.
As soon as they narrowed in on the Dreadlord's location they could do the same for the other one and stop them both before they caused any more harm. Although capture of the second was preferable, they needed to know who sent that one and if that was the case what their mission was. Having no idea of the future changes they could inflict was dangerous, and they needed to know right away.
Another smaller ripple was felt through time, with a growl she moved off, she needed to report back to the Caverns of Time to report this incident. At the moment the second anomaly was not causing any major issues compared to the first. Once they deal with that one she would see about searching for the second and ending this escapade once and for all.
There you have it, a nice long chapter with a good amount of detail. Hope you enjoyed it.
Reviews:
Wrandral: His true Zanpakuto is being suppressed, intentionally by Old Man Zangetsu and Ichigo as well. It is actually similar to Kenpachi, who ignored his sword and never heard its voice and because of that he is denying himself his true power and potential because he believes that the Hollow is a danger and cannot be trusted. Also if you have noticed that every time the Hollow has done something it has been for the benefit of Ichigo and to make sure he is safe.
The Hollowfication is actually Hollow Zangetsu's powers manifesting as the only way they can which is unstable. That power was never meant to manifest like that but it is the only way that it can safely. Also the Old Man doesn't want Ichigo to gain these powers because he knows that they are dangerous. Likely knowing that if he becomes a Shinigami that Yhwach could no longer take an interest in him. Zangetsu thinks about the long run and knows that Yhwach is likely coming and is trying to keep Ichigo alive and possibly in the right circumstance to see him survive.
That is true, pairings I feel are often too rushed. And in most stories the hero does something heroic and the maiden falls for him. I feel that it should be more than that, the maiden should be rescued and indebted to the hero and as time goes on and more things are done she considers it. After all not all actions of heroism lead to romance. If that was the case Rukia should be fawning over him a lot right now. But still love can bloom at times people would not expect.
The Nether really only affects space rather than time. There is not dilation when entering the Nether. In fact the Dangai, or something of the sort exists in Azeroth, and is the reason spirits and certain individuals can see into the future. Because they can tap into that veil that alters the flow of time and giving them visions of the past, present and future. It is a very nifty thing.
Minaly22: Yeah, my writing style has changed a lot now and I think that I have finally gotten it to the point where it is actually clear cut and good. I always thought details, as in textbook detail, was needed for a story. But in truth it is all about what needs to be said when it is time to be said. From this point on it will grow. I might do some small editing of the previous chapters over the course of my writing, but nothing but making it a bit smoother.
Meech Macko: Yeah, I do not plan for Ichigo to simply jump ship and get a girlfriend, or a boyfriend, it has been asked I tell you. Slow relationships are normal and while there have been quickly built ones such as Thrall and Draka, Jaina and Talecgos, I do not plan for Ichigo to get a girlfriend until maybe after the Burning Crusade. Simply because there will be revelations then that he will not like.
Ichigo has no other option but to delude himself, if he gives up on getting home quickly than he simply will wallow in pity and shame. He needs to find a way to advance himself and that involves him making allies and getting the knowledge needed. Jaina would see to it that he helps where he can, it would be foolish of her not to get him to help. After all he is someone that can be of great aid to the Alliance.
DanteNaru: Ichigo has heard of her before but doesn't have much in the terms of details on her. He doesn't know much other than she is a Moon Goddess, he may think her to be something like a myth and not something akin to the Soul King. Also the context of Zangetsu is not Slaying Moon, as in he slays the Moon, but is represented as a moon that cleaves through the darkness.
Earendil18: Of course, how could I not tease him time to time. Also Ichigo has proven to be quite strong, despite despair and doubt he has found ways to fight on.
I agree with you my friend, nicely said and reasoned.
Daio Ine: Glad to help. Also Pairings are yet to be decided, I try not to set it up too quickly because that way it leaves it open if I want to change it. Even if there is signs of affection it can still be seen as close friends with one another.
Reality Deviant: Ichigo will don the mask and show off his Bankai at the same time in the next arc, near the ends actually.
MSG1000: Glad you like it, yeah this arc was meant to address and flesh out his problems. Mainly to show them and what they are doing and how he is actually contradicting himself in terms of his own personality.
Black Cross0: Glad you like it, as for the admirers of the opposite gender, it can happen. Ichigo is a hot piece of ass.
Also you are right, the badge is a proximity device that he uses to maintain control of his spiritual energy so that it doesn't go rampant. Without it in his proximity it will not actually cause him any problems in terms of sealing some of his power away.
Krazyfanction1: Thanks, glad you liked it.
Noble1998: Glad you liked it.
Chaos-Guard: That will be a while off and I have the perfect way to do it, and show it. Really going to like that point in the story actually, it is going to be epic.
Kragh50: That he does, and through reflection he can grow and overcome these obstacles.
The Unsung Antihero: In a way I do agree with you in this. While Ichigo is a strong character and has shown to be powerful to a standard he is actually not what you would call overly experienced in many situations. He has had his powers for maybe about three months and while he is a skilled and quick learner he is still not someone that can rack up centuries of experience to fight against skilled opponents.
And as you said given the right know how he can defeat his opponents. But even then he is often overwhelmed by his enemies and usually survives due to luck or circumstance. The boy had help and that is what keeps him alive, he is a meat axe at times because he sets a goal but not the path to get to that goal. That is his problem really. He is headstrong but not that tactical. He sees a locked door, so he kicks it down to get inside. But doesn't consider the window or the back door or the booby-trap that might be there.
Also power in Bleach is also reflected by the heart, if the heart is weakened and being crushed upon the person becomes weaker. As you can see when he gains his resolve his power grows because he is determined to win. The power doesn't just come from nowhere, it comes from him gaining the determination to fight and win. The Heart is what makes him strong, and a strong heart is what makes you greater.
Jahm: Ichigo will get some training in, in fact the next chapter will be set about a week later with Caren working on helping Ichigo with his spiritual power. While she doesn't know how he does it she can teach him how to harness it through the body.
Ultima-Owner: Yeah, Despair is like constipations, and when it is gone and everything is released you do feel lighter.
Telron: Glad you like it, and it is good. Now he can focus on other things and how to improve his situation. Won't be easy, but it has to be done.
Plums: Relationships? Right now? Sorry, a long way off, they have only known each other for a month now. Way too early for romance like that.
Drow79: Glad you like it, and I do hope so as well.
Leapinglemur: That he can, but he will need to face his own personal demons and others in order to begin to heal. To find the means in order to heal.
Impstar: You got it right, he was contradicting himself because he knew that something was wrong with his emotions and why there were like that. He had killed Hollows before, and fought to kill others. Yet he never showed any regret or hesitation in delivering the strike. Yet he still experienced the fear, and that fear was born because of the Nether and his exodus from Earth.
Largomolo: Glad you like it and I agree with you, a story with a plot about a guy that goes around being boss can be cool. But this isn't what this story is about, I named it Transcendence for a reason, and by the end all will see why.
Guest #1: Yes, but not for a long time, and even with the truth revealed his Zanpakuto will not change.
Blindluck92: I do hope so as well. It is actually a bit tricky to pick up on at first, but you can see it if you remember the previous chapters. That you see the contradiction, and Ichigo sees it as well.
Guest #2: Normally I would feel down and sad that I did something wrong. But luckily for me, I didn't. Because you obviously have little idea on what you are saying because
1: There is no shaman chick, but a druid.
2: Her name is Adelina and if you had paid attention you would know that. But considering you cannot bother to remember anyone name other that Ichigo it is likely you have low opinions on the other characters and their importance in the story.
3: He isn't a pussy, because despite these fears and doubts that are something he is quite familiar and well versed in he is still fighting the good fight and doing what he does best. Because deep down he is willing to fight despite that fear in order to protect others.
4: You are an idiot.
6: You likely cannot understand the true reason behind this chapter because you are too busy looking for the fight scene that is not in it. As you likely only like seeing things that have him dominating a fight simply because he is ICHIGO KUROSAKI. And not Ichigo Kurosaki, the sixteen year old High School Student and Substitute Soul Reaper.
7: Ichigo is already a god in terms of his power and species as a Shinigami. But you likely forgot that because being a god means he is stronger than Yamamoto in your books. Or at least him having the power to tank the guys Bankai with his hand and be like all chill about it. That is certainly in his character.
8: You likely did not notice that I skipped '5'.
9: You looked up to see if '5' is not there and realized it is true and now you feel like the idiot I am betraying you as. Have a good day.
To everyone else I wish you a good day, and this is sincere compared to the last reviewer.
