Here it is, the last chapter of 2015, been a great pleasure bringing this to you all. Enjoy!
Transcendence
Chapter 31: Back to Feathermoon
Ichigo rushed up the stairs, taking two steps at a time as he moved to get to the top of the tower. Behind him followed Adelina, Caren, Colonel Lorena and Pained, the latter having come to collect all the former for an important meeting. He had no idea about what it was, but Pained had eluded that it required not only him but the highest ranking officer to be present.
Ichigo wasn't much for military tactics or how they operate in general, but he knew that if the highest ranking soldier in the Theramore Guard was needed it was because they were going to war. That meant she also needed him to help handle some kind of situation as well. Otherwise he would not have been called in.
Jaina really didn't have much use for him otherwise, musing on that really made him realize he didn't have much of a job or hobby around here.
'Maybe I should do something, maybe get a job,' Ichigo mused, but quickly squashed it for later as he saw the end of the flight of stairs.
As he took one final step he reached the top of the tower, entering the chamber that Jaina often worked within day to day. But this time it was completely barren save for the four people currently in deep discussion, looks like they did not want any unwanted ears listening in.
Jaina along with Aegwynn and Tervosh were in discussion with someone, an Elven Sentinel. Ichigo could have guessed that she came from Feathermoon, that gear did look similar to the ones used by the Sentinels there. As the rest of his party came up Jaina turned and gave a sigh of relief.
"It is good you came," Jaina said, beckoning Pained and Lorena over along with the rest of those that had been called. "A situation has arisen that requires all our attention."
Ichigo strolled forward and stood off to the side, watching as the four women discussed something quietly amongst themselves. He couldn't make out much but from the creased brows and hasty whispers between them he could tell it was important. When Tervosh stepped back Ichigo approached him, wanting to see if he could get some info on what was happening.
"What's going on?" Ichigo asked.
"The Sentinels have been alerted to a demonic force present in Feralas, they are amassing whatever forces they can to combat it before it gets out of control. Theramore has been called to offer reinforcements," Tervosh replied.
Ichigo turned back to the huddled group, close enough to make out their conversation much easier.
"How many are we dealing with here?" Lorena asked.
"Unknown, but they were able to displace nearly two thousand Ogres we know to inhabit the city." The Sentinel, Keelyssa as she introduced herself, said. "If that is the case we may be dealing with a force as large as or even greater than them."
"If the battling has gone on for several days, it could mean the numbers are near evenly matched," Tervosh said. "But if they had been able to amass such a force, it can only mean that they are somehow summoning more demons to their side."
"Yes, a reason we should attack before they win, if the demons are struck from multiple sides they can be defeated," Pained stated. "We would stand no chance in a head on assault."
"Shandris Feathermoon agrees, which is why we must hurry. What information we could gather is that the center of the city has been taken from the Ogres, they still hold the gate but likely not for long, if the demons take it we will have no other way to enter the city on foot," Keelyssa said. "If they take the entire city breaching it will be impossible and taking it even harder. We will be attacking tomorrow; we need all the forces we can muster."
Ichigo had no idea what they were talking about exactly, but he got the idea that the demons were in some kind of city in Feralas. He wondered if these were like the demons in the Nether, could they actually be the same ones. If that was the case than these guys had their work cut out for them, those monsters were not easily put down. He may have killed a few, that he could recall, but he had to run from the other hundred that were on his tail.
'Wait… the city?'
When he came here he had arrived in a city, it was in the same region so it had to be the same place. He recalled there being an entire group of Elves there, dozens, possibly hundreds of them. If it was a settlement or city of theirs wouldn't it have some way to enter it besides the front gate?
"Hey, is this the same city I came here from?" Ichigo asked.
The Sentinel turned to him, regarding him for a moment, and realizing this was the boy Jaina had recommended and she herself recalled over a month ago.
"If this is the city you mention to Shandris back at Feathermoon, that is the case," Keelyssa replied, giving a nod in affirmative. "Why does this matter?"
"Because of the Elves in the city?" Ichigo asked.
"Elves?" Jaina asked. "Wait, are you saying there are Elves in Dire Maul?"
She quickly racked her memory in all the times she spoke with Ichigo; she had not heard anything about this in previous conversations. Jaina was certain that he had not mentioned anything about Elves within the city he arrived in; often he called them ruins, but nothing about inhabitants. Could they possibly be Night Elves? But if that was the case why was this not known of earlier and why did Shandris not mention it.
"Yeah, there were Elves there when I arrived; if you have a base there shouldn't you have like a portal or something there? Or like at least another entrance," Ichigo asked.
"That cannot be true; there have not been any other Elven inhabitants since… since…" Keelyssa started, at first doubt shined in her eyes, before it changed to one of deep thought. "Did they use magic?"
"Uh, I think so. I mean there were a few mages I guess and also they had this tower that was…" Ichigo started, trying to explain before the Sentinel cut him off.
"They are not Night Elves; they are our former kin, the Highborne," the Sentinel said, scowling as she spoke their name, as if it was a foul word that made one sick. "They must have hidden themselves within the city, and continued their foul magical practices. To think they have escaped our notice for so long."
"How many are there within the city?" Aegwynn asked, looking at Ichigo with her glowing eyes that pierced him as if they were the sun behind a hand glass.
"I don't know, a hundred maybe more. I didn't get a real good look before I had to escape," Ichigo replied. "They didn't exactly welcome me, and the demon was there as well."
Ichigo then was struck by realization, could it possibly be that the demons that came with him was responsible for this?
"Wait, that demon that came with me, could he be responsible for this?" Ichigo asked, his posture going rigid and a scowl working its way onto his brow.
"It is likely, and if your description is right he is a Dreadlord, a being of great power," Aegwynn stated.
"This is worse than we could have imagined. If the Highborne are there in force we may be dealing with three armies rather than two." Jaina said. "Graver still is the fact that the Elves may have artefacts and knowledge that the demons could harness if they got their hands on it. If they have been surviving for ten thousand years within that city, there is no telling what kind of relics and powers they have been harnessing and nurturing in that time."
Jaina knew that the Highborne were like the High Elves of Quel'thalas, they had a deep connection to magic and were deeply addicted to its use. If these Elves have been practicing within the city for the last ten thousand years and without restriction, there is no telling how powerful they have become. In turn, they could be using magical forces that if placed in the hands of the Legion could spell another war for Azeroth alongside an invasion of their most hated enemy.
"I must return immediately to relay this to Shandris, send anyone you can," Keelyssa said, turning and moving for the stairs.
Ichigo watched her go and he knew that he was not in the loop, he really felt lost despite knowing what was going on. But without the deep details about what was going on, mainly the forces at work here, he had no idea how to grasp the picture of what was happening and the severity of it.
"So, what do we do?" Ichigo asked.
"I will be sending a small party to assist in the assault; I can only send a few sadly," Jaina replied, before looking at Ichigo seriously. "I want you to go with them. I know that this is not your concern and it may not seem important, but I feel…"
"Okay, I'll go," Ichigo said, cutting her off and taking some pleasure in her surprised expression. "I ain't doing this because it gets me home faster or because I am bored and need something to do. If that is what you are thinking."
Ichigo shook his head and gave off an annoyed tsk, he couldn't believe that they thought they needed to convince him to help. He had been here long enough already that they should know why he does what he does.
"I am doing it because they need my help, if there are that many demons in there, they are going to be a danger to not only Shandris and her people but everyone else. I will fight to stop them," Ichigo said simply, there was nothing else for him to say on the matter, he wanted to help because it was the right thing to do and it is what he had to do.
Jaina looked on and smiled, she had forgotten again, thinking on his more annoying qualities and priorities. She had thought to bribe or force him to go and help, but instead she forgot the one thing that made her indebted to him in the first place. His desire to protect others, his selfless attitude towards those in need and want to protect and avenge those lost.
'His most defining characteristic, and I forgot it, and I think I am good at reading people,' Jaina mused to herself.
"Thank you," Jaina said. "I will get the Gryphons ready for you. Lorena, see about getting some men together, the best we have."
"Yes my lady." Lorena replied, moving for the stairs, and nudging Ichigo as she passed. "Come with me, you may need a bit of practice on the Gryphon before we depart."
Ichigo looked at her for a moment, confused as to what she meant before the words caught up to him and realized she may be right. He had never actually been on one of these flying mounts before, he had seen the Flight Master take them out for a ride every once and a while. But he had no idea how to actually ride them, was it similar to a horse? He had no idea.
'If it is like a horse than all I need to do is guide it, shouldn't be that hard.'
Ichigo looked at the large eagle headed creatures that sat comfortably in their roosts, their large black eyes focused solely on him. He had the immediate feeling that they did not like him, call it intuition or just a gut feeling, but he knew these guys did not like him for some reason. And because of that he was more than certain the next few minutes were going to be an absolute hell for him.
"This is so not going to work," Ichigo mumbled.
He heard a low chirrup to the right, when he looked he couldn't help but feel like a clueless idiot when he noticed Caren and Adelina already with their own mounts. Both of them stroking their birds and getting acquainted, doing it like they have done it a hundred times already and been friends with the bird for years.
"I know this isn't going to work."
"Cheer up lad!" Baldruc cried out boisterously, but Ichigo did not react to the sudden and unexpected gusto of the man. "It'll be alright, it's not as bad as ye think, and these birds are completely harmless. Been training them since they hatched from their eggs, they wouldn't hurt anything that stands on two legs."
"That's comforting, but the fact they are looking at me with those big beady eyes tells me they don't like me much," Ichigo replied, looking back at the many gryphons that seem to be transfixed on the substitute.
"Ah, don't worry about that, they are just not used to strangers, give 'em time," Baldruc replied, shaking off the boys concern. "Now, follow my instructions and you will be fine. Just don't start yelling at them, these birds hold a grudge like no other, and they like to gossip too! So make sure you make a good first impression and then the rest won't mind ya."
Ichigo looked at them and could hear a few make some chirping noises, as if talking to one another. He had the feeling that he was somehow the butt of one of the bird's jokes, how low he has fallen.
Eldre'thalas
"Move the men to the outer districts, we must protect the crystals!"
Mordent looked out from his chamber's balcony to see the guards were already on the move, ordering civilians to return to their homes while gathering any abled body fighter to them. Dragging off any man and woman that seemed promising, likely to arm them and send them into the field to fight and die defending their home. It was truly their darkest hour since the Sundering, but unlike that cataclysm this is one that they likely would not survive.
The demons had advanced too far into their part of the city, the Ogres would never travel this far, fearing the Ancients that roam the outer quarters. It was their main defense against invaders, but even the Ancients could not hold back the demons, for they had fallen to their onslaught. And now their people were next in line.
"The outer districts have been taken; we have lost many of the pylons already. And our control over the Ancients has been broken, the demons now have them," Lorekeeper Lydros said. He looked frantic as he glanced out the window to see that the Endrethal Guard were on the move with another batch of fresh recruits being dragged along with them.
Mordent did not speak but moved for the door, they needed to speak of this in securer quarters, a place where none may overhear them. Behind him followed four of his fellow Magisters and members of the House of Shen'dralar.
As he stepped out of his chamber he stopped to see a group of guards rush past, with three magi following close behind. But they were only one of a dozen different groups moving to and fro across the streets. The people were panicking and the soldiers were almost headless in their charging around and attempts to instill order.
"We should move to The Athenaeum, we can speak more freely there," Arcanist Delaris said, whispering into his ear and receiving a nod in return.
As they moved through the streets they could see that most of the populace was panicking, people huddling in their homes and taking cautious glances outside their windows. Fear had consumed their little part of the city, and nothing was being done to allay it.
"This bodes ill, we cannot hold back the demons, not with what soldiers we have," Daros Moonlance said, speaking with his colleague Lorekeeper Javon.
"You are right, most of us are not warriors, and we have relied too long on the Ancients to guard the borders. And now we are forced to bring innocents into the fight, what is Prince Tortheldrin thinking?" Javon said, looking to see two young men being dragged from their home while a woman cries out for them to be brought back.
"Keep your voices low," Mordent warned.
He watched as several Guards moved past their position, hurriedly moving to somewhere that likely requires their attention. Mordent could not risk them hearing their doubts, if they did Tortheldrin would most certainly learn and then they would all be executed. The Prince was cruel and mad, and currently he would be at his most insane.
With the loss of the Pylons and the power they provided to the city it was most likely that he would move to recapture them. That would mean fighting against the demons and the Ancients, something that would be suicidal. They had not the force to fight against an army like that, it would only result in pointless loss of life.
"What shall we do?" Daros asked, looking around frantically as he whispered the query.
Without another word Mordent moved off, beckoning the rest to follow, talking in the open and with hushed whispers would only rouse suspicion. They needed to go somewhere safe where they could discuss things and not run the risk of discovery. Prince Tortheldrin would see them all dead for dereliction of duty, and the mention of retreat would only make it a slow death compared to a quick one.
He moved through the streets and towards the only place that they could talk openly, anywhere else and they would run the risk of being seen and overheard. They did not speak a single word as they made for the Athenaeum, the headquarters for the House of Shen'dralar. A massive library of their achievements and history, dating back over sixteen thousand years, older than any recorded history in the world.
As he stepped through the massive doorway he came into the library, solid dull bronze stone that was illuminated with golden fire torches that lined the walls and pillars. The massive chamber was lined with dozens of isles, filled to the brim with books and scrolls. Holding knowledge and lore that had not been seen by any eyes outside this city since its founding millennia past.
Above the chamber rose up until it reached the massive glass roof, the glass once an assortment of colors and designs had faded and become overgrown with moss and vines. Leaving it black and unable to be breached by any light. Between the roof and the base floor were many levels that held more tomes and relics of their former empire. Close to ten other floors rose up to the roof, each containing hundreds of books, and many bridges that connected from one section to another.
Mordent had spent much of his long life in these chambers, learning from every book and tome. He has read every single story, every theory and legend, all the knowledge in this library was within him and he recalled it as easily as he looked at a tome and read the title upon its binding.
"The rest of the House is not here, Tortheldrin likely has them fighting now, and we will likely be called next if we do not act quickly," Daros said, looking around to see that almost no one was within the library.
Only a few serfs were around, people who would maintain the library and keep it in order. They were no threat to them, but they must be diligent, the Prince had many spies and these people could be as such.
"He would not be so reckless; he knows that an all-out attack will not succeed," Lydros said. "He must see reason and retreat, if we can hold on long enough we may be able to come up with a solution."
"We all know that he has become desperate, ever since the loss of the pylons he has become concerned that the demon will escape its prison," Javon said, scowling slightly. "He does not wish to lose that beast."
Mordent had to agree with the Loremaster, he knew for certain that the Prince would not hesitate to send all available soldiers to recapture those lost pylons. For they do more than just bend the Ancients to their will, they also hold a very important prisoner, that if unleashed would be the end of them all.
Immol'thar was more important to the Prince than their lives; he would not hesitate so sacrifice everyone in order to maintain that flow of power that kept the demon chained and submissive. He was mad, completely and utterly insane, if this continued it will most certainly be the end of their entire race. All that they had done over the last ten thousand years is survive and preserve the remains of their once great empire. Now it was crumbling to the very same demons that their former queen once had served.
"We need to tell him this cannot be won, that the demons are too great to battle. We should retreat back into our domain and prepare to weather the attack until we can fight back," Lydros said.
"He is right; if we pull back all our forces and set up a defense we may be able to create a means to at least prevent the demons from getting closer. From there we can plan our next move for a time." Delaris said.
"Waiting is what we have done for long enough, having more time will not change anything," Javon said. "There is nothing we can do to defeat these demons, we do not have the numbers to push them back or to hold them off. Even with our magic we would only delay the inevitable."
"There must be a way. We have a mass of magical artefacts from the dawn of our empire within these halls and yet none can save us?" Delaris asked.
"But nothing to power them, the magical energies that we once wielded are now gone and they are useless. The Prince has seen to it that we have nothing to use, keeping it all to himself. We have no chance against a force like this. We are all going to die," Daros replied.
"Is this what you think?"
The five mages went quiet and very still, their heads darted to the speaker and feeling the grip of fear on their hearts as they confirmed with their eyes who the speaker was. The Prince had arrived, and besides him were two guards, they strode forward quickly. But only the Prince was given attention, his features were contorted into a deep scowl of rage.
"You give up so easily! I have led you through these last ten thousand years and now you doubt me to lead you through another!" Tortheldrin roared. "I have sacrificed much for our people, made sure they were safe and that you continue to maintain the Empire. But now look! You grovel and hide behind these books!"
Mordent did not speak, to risk speaking a word was a death sentence with the Prince so angered; he needed to think of a way out of this.
"My Prince, please, the demons are simply too many for us to handle at once. If we pull back and regroup we may be able to find a solution," Lydros said, stepping forward and trying to appeal to his lord.
Mordent glanced at him sharply; the fool did not know what he was doing. Has these past millennia taught him nothing? The Prince would never resort to such a thing, not before the madness took him and certainly not now.
"You dare! You dare speak to me of retreat and cowardice!" Tortheldrin yelled, his hand grasping his sword, yet be it restraint or just waiting for a reason the blade was not drawn.
"No my Prince, I simply speak of waiting for the right moment to strike! We risk too much if we attack without rallying our entire force, we should gather our full might and reclaim everything in one fell swoop," Lydros said, stepping back in worry at the snarling visage of the Prince, who continued to growl and hiss.
"He is right, if we do not think this through we will only lose more of our people. But if we stop and regroup we can…" Delaris started, but an exclamation from Tortheldrin stopped her.
"We will not stop! I will not allow you cowards to hide behind these brave warriors, who will die to defend our people from these demonic mongrels!" Tortheldrin roared. "We have endured too much pain and heartache to simply die in vain! This city must persevere and remain strong so that the Empire does not fall!"
Mordent could see that the words were not reaching him, he was too erratic and unstable. The man had spent thousands of years consuming demonic energies from their prisoner; his mind had been tainted and consumed. He fed on it regularly to keep himself stable, if it could be defined as that, but now that he could not feed he was becoming more erratic. The withdrawal was affecting him too greatly, his mind couldn't even work properly, and his words couldn't be understood.
It would not be long now, he would snap and everything would fall apart as the man killed anything and everything in his way. He had done it before when he wanted to consume all that power for himself, and only himself. Murdering much of the noble caste and many others that fed on the demons power, and leaving those he did not kill to feed off the scraps he did not take.
Mordent did not know why it had taken so long for him to see this, to not realize just how far their lord had fallen. He had murdered their people, out of a greed for more power, and now he was leading all of them to the grave so that he could try and keep what he had. All that spouting about saving their race and preserving the empire of Azshara, it was nothing but a lie.
"I want all the Magisters, every single person in this city to take up swords and follow me. We will retake everything, wipe out these vermin once and for all and regain what we have lost! No more shall we cower and hide, we are invincible and cannot be denied our right to rule over this world!" Tortheldrin roared.
Mordent did not move as the man finally drew his sword, aiming it right for his neck, but he did see the mad gleam in his eyes. This only solidifying his belief that his Prince had finally lost himself to his addiction, leaving only a hollow of a man behind.
"You will do well not to fail me Mordent, I will be fighting for our people on the front, and when I return and find you cowering here. I will end you all!" Tortheldrin roared, turning on his feet and moving for the exit, his guards in tow.
Mordent knew that he would not be coming back, he would die out there, it was almost a certainty. Mordent knew that there was no point in following that command; it would lead to nothing but a quick and brutal end for what few of them were left. No, he had to think about the rest of his people, he needed to make sure that they survived this slaughter.
"This is worse than we imagined, it is the end," Lydros said.
"No, it is not," Mordent said, stepping forward and formulating the plan. "Gather the Magisters and Arcanists, gather every single soul you can that is not on the battlefield and bring them here."
"Do you actually plan to follow our lord's command?" Daros asked, shock passing over his features as he questioned the man's course.
"No, have the attendants gather every book, scroll and artefact in this library, we will not leave it to the demons to take," Mordent ordered. "We get every person we can, and escape from here. We can no longer remain within Eldre'thalas, it is time we left this city."
"But how? There is no way we can leave here, the gate is sealed and we have no means of transport," Delaris said.
But then footsteps were heard, another had joined them, walking forward and looking at them seriously. They all regarded him warily, they knew him to be part of the House, but was he an ally or enemy?
"If you wish to escape I can help you, I know of a way. As well as where we can go."
Mordent looked to the man, surprised by this development and the stroke of luck it had brought, how did he have this knowledge?
"What do you mean Azj'Tordin?"
Feathermoon Stronghold
Ichigo looked down below, through the thick night fog that had fallen over the coast of Feralas and shrouded the large isle where Feathermoon Stronghold resided. He could make out some of the structures that would jut through the top of the mist but it was difficult. No torches could be seen or lights, he did not know if that was intentional or not, but it made it difficult to see.
"Follow me down!" Pained ordered, her Gryphon descending to where Feathermoon should be.
Ichigo looked around to see that the fifteen guards and others that had come with them followed without hesitation. Descending into the mists and towards the isle, Ichigo took a breath as he followed in their wake.
As he drew closer, the Gryphon pulled up and began to slowly descend to the ground with a few flaps of its wings. Ichigo glanced around to find he had landed within the empty grounds in the center of the stronghold, around him were the other gryphons and their riders. Dismounting and giving the massive bird a good pat he moved with the party to the main building, likely where Shandris would be located.
"Wait out here, I will return shortly," Pained said, before motioning over to Tervosh with a nod.
The mage complied and followed after her, both going to speak with Shandris about this assault that would be carried out tomorrow. Ichigo remained outside with the rest of the party, composed of mostly soldiers and two other magi.
It wasn't much, but he wondered what kind of force the Sentinels had marshaled for this attack, he hoped it was a big one. Because there was no telling what they would be going against in that city.
Shandris looked out over the ocean, the view to the Isles of Dread was obscured by the trees but she saw enough. It wasn't the sights however she was focusing on, instead deciding to appear to gaze into nothing rather than brood at her table. This news that Sentinel Keelyssa had brought back from Theramore was less than what she expected.
'I am already low on soldiers, and if Jaina cannot send me the forces needed I will stand no chance against the demons,' Shandris mused, despite the grim situation she had been placed in she remained calm.
She has led the Sentinels for nearly nine thousand years, and in that time she had honed her skills and craft to the point of perfection. To fight against a force of demons that barely scraped past three thousand, if the reports were correct, would be child's play.
'Had I the forces,' Shandris thought quietly.
She could do a serious dent to the demons forces, but achieving victory was not something she could assure. Not with only five hundred Sentinels at her command and whatever force Jaina could send, even if it is the Demi-God.
Ichigo had proven himself it seems, and while his efforts are noted, they would pale in comparison to the task set before them. A vast demonic army was growing ever so quickly, and in a place where if left unchecked could spill out into the land and consume all in its path.
"General, they have arrived," Sentinel Weysae said, appearing from the doorway before stepping to the side.
As she did Shandris was greeted by two people she had not seen in the last few years, she smiled at her old friend that had been her spy master. The blue haired warrior gave a small nod in greeting, but only Shandris could see the slight upturn in her lips. Besides her was Jaina's likely closest colleague and friend, and one she had often met when she travelled to Theramore during the early years of its rise.
"Pained, Tervosh, it has been some time since we last met, it is sad that calamity is what has drawn us together again," Shandris said, smiling slightly as she moved over to her desk, and they met her there.
"Indeed, when we heard about the demons within Dire Maul we came as quickly as we were able. I am sorry to say we could not bring more men for tomorrow," Tervosh said.
"Anything you can spare is appreciated, but still the news that was brought back has me concerned," Shandris said. "Highborne, to think that more still remained unaccounted for after ten millennia."
"Ichigo has filled us in, it would seem that they do have a sizable force in Eldre'thalas, specifically in the Western part of the city if his memory is correct," Pained stated. "If that is the case we may be able to avoid them all together, for the demons and Ogres are located in the east and north."
"That may be true, but remember, that the Highborne are deeply addicted to the practices of the arcane. They will more than likely have created some font of magical power, if that is the case the demons will be drawn to it," Shandris said.
Demons may be a force that has not been seen for ten thousand years, but her people know them well and are very aware of their ways. She knew that they will likely go after the Highborne for whatever magical energies they possess, to use it to their own ends. If that were to happen the demons could summon in reinforcements or even grow stronger, it all depended on the font of this power.
But in either case it would end poorly for them.
"We need to cut off the demons from the Highborne, but we also run the risk of fighting against them. I have no doubt that they will be an enemy when they see us," Shandris said.
"Then we are dealing with three enemies within the city, unknown numbers and capabilities. The only good thing we have going for us is that they are against one another," Tervosh said.
"Not for long," Pained said. "Remember, these Ogres are Gordunni."
"What do you mean?" Shandris asked.
Ogres were not a force she was overly familiar with, having only learned they came from another world in the Greater Dark called Draenor with the Orcs. Apart from that there was nothing else, only that they were large, dumb, and very dangerous up close.
"From what research we can scrounge up on this particular clan they have a very unique honor system, almost all Ogre clans do," Pained said. "But they are led by one rule, the strongest leads. But there is an exception to that rule, if you can kill the leader in combat, you take his place."
Shandris immediately realized what she was implying, if the leader of the Ogres were to be killed by the demons, they would take command. That would mean they would be fighting against a possible demon and Ogre army together. Something that they had no chance against if they joined forces.
"This is getting worse by the minute," Shandris growled out. "A conventional attack will not do, we will need to play this carefully. We have not the numbers for an open assault, all we can do is instead strike at the enemies vulnerable points and weaken them."
"I concur, the demons would likely be using portals to funnel in reinforcement. If we remove that we can begin to wear them down," Pained stated. "Reports say that the demons are located in the east, so that is a good a place as any to search."
"I may be able to rig up a sensor of sort, if we can locate the portal I may be able to collapse it or whatever is sustaining it," Tervosh said.
Shandris nodded, as much as the Ogres and Highborne were a danger, they had to make sure that the demons were a priority. Her forces would need to be diverted, a force that would attack the demons position directly while others move about to cause maximum damage with little effort. Yet destroying that portal system of theirs will be pointless if they reach the Highborne, if they have anything the demons can use they are finished.
"Without an exact layout of the terrain and the situation within it is pointless to plan anything else, we best only work to stop the demons. The Ogres and Highborne are not our concern this day," Shandris stated. "I will set you up with proper lodgings, tomorrow we will be marching at first light. Get what rest you can."
Tervosh and Pained nodded their heads and departed, leaving the Sentinel General in her chambers looking over the reports that her scouts have brought back. Unable to enter the city they were scarce and little, but they did paint the type of picture she did not like. The outside of the walls were fortified and well defended, no demons may have escaped, but it will be just as difficult for her sentinels to get in.
Morning
Ichigo looked around, seeing hundreds of Sentinels quickly and neatly organize themselves into groups, seven rows of seven sentinels led by a single officer. Neat and tidy if he could say it in the fewest words possible, they were organized and well disciplined. He had never seen anything to match it, the cohesion between the soldiers was simply staggering.
"Impressive isn't it," Shandris said, appearing next to the substitute without him having a clue.
Ichigo looked at her for a moment, seeing her completely covered in armor, light flexible leather with several metal plates over the more vulnerable parts of the body. Enough to protect, but little to get in way of movement.
"Not surprising really, for us this is simple discipline and training," Shandris said, before giving a smirk. "You Humans surely have something similar, although you try."
Ichigo could tell she was being smug right now, for all her seriousness and long life she acted in a superior fashion from time to time. He couldn't blame her, age was an important thing, and he was willing to bet that even Yamamoto wasn't even half as old as the Sentinel General. And likely hasn't lead as long as her.
"Gee thanks, coming from you that is a compliment," Ichigo replied, being as sarcastic as he was able.
"But even with all these soldiers it will be a fight that I do not know we can win without heavy losses," Shandris said.
They number only five hundred and with the fifteen that were brought to them from Theramore it would be a minor advance in their chances. Still she had hope that with Ichigo here and with reports that his powers had been stabilizing it would be of use. If she could have him assault the demons strongpoints than she was certain he could win this for them.
'He survived in the Nether alone for days, fighting through wounds and unlimited numbers of demons; this surely will be in our favor,' Shandris thought.
"I'll help where I can, you don't need to ask, just tell me what I need to do," Ichigo replied, looking serious as per usual.
Shandris just nodded her head and watched as the forces moved for the coast; four ships were waiting for them. They would arrive at Eldre'thalas by midday if they marched quickly enough, and from there they would likely be fighting for the next few days through the city.
"Good to hear it, once we assess the enemy's strength and numbers I will call for you," Shandris said.
"By the way, Pained told me about the Highborne in the city and that they aren't allies. I just wondered how you found out about the demons if they weren't the ones who told you?" Ichigo asked.
"I was told by a passing adventurer and her party, they were planning on entering the city in search of riches but with the demon incursion they called it off," Shandris replied. "They are over there near the docks; a vessel came for them and they will be departing soon."
Ichigo turned to the docks and did notice a group of armored individuals there, most of them making up the different races in the Alliance. But among them was Caren, she seemed to be talking with a hooded woman.
"You are certain?" Caren asked, wanting to confirm the priest's words.
"Yes, the city is inhabited by the Highborne, but most specifically the Shen'dralar, known as the Queen's Personal Mages," Codexia said, smiling slightly as she noted the young magi's eyes lit up with amazement.
"Incredible, I had heard from obscure texts about them, having knowledge and items of great power. It is said that they were the greatest mages to walk the face of Azeroth," Caren replied, murmuring it to herself as she thought of the possibilities this brought.
The Shen'dralar was a much unknown organization today, yet ten thousand years ago, it is said to have been a massive conclave of mages and scholars that worked specifically with magical energies. They were said to have had an entire city to practice and perform their arts, unrestricted and often unsanctioned magical uses. It would house untold and unfathomable knowledge on the arcane practices of the Night Elves before the Sundering.
If she was able to gain access to that location, there is no telling what could be uncovered, it could revolutionize the way the arcane is practiced and used. The few Night Elves they have met have told of the greatness of the Elven Empire when it practiced their craft, despite the misgivings the Elves have of the arcane, they still spoke of its brilliance.
"If they are still alive, there is no telling what could be learned, what knowledge could be obtained?" Caren said, bursting at the prospect of learning even a scrap of knowledge from them.
"From my own sources I have confirmed that they house an entire library of knowledge, from scrolls of arcane theory, to books of arcane rituals and methods of spell construction. Along with ancient artefacts, it is one of the reasons I began this expedition," Codexia said, smiling as she spoke and sharing in the young mages enthusiasm.
"I can understand that, I am actually surprised that you would leave so easily then," Caren said, to turn ones back on this knowledge seemed to be madness considering that they would have greater success by aiding the Sentinels.
"I will actually be remaining, but the rest of my party will be leaving, their boss doesn't like getting into situations above their paygrade," Codexia replied, gesturing to the assortment of mercenaries waiting on the edge of the docks.
"You are?" Caren said, before composing herself. "That is good; it will allow us to possibly see about finding the library when this conflict is over."
Caren was so excited; the prospects that would come from finding this library could shake the very foundations of the worlds. In fact it could be more valuable than anything within Dalaran, if that was the case and she found it there was no telling how much she could do with it. The praise alone would overshadow anything she has ever done in her life, or anyone else, to acquire this knowledge and give it to the world.
But first it will need to be secured, and the Vaults that are to be built beneath Theramore are the perfect place for it. There she can research it and with that knowledge bring forth that what is worthwhile, and that which isn't can be sealed away. Finally she can get the recognition she deserves.
"Maybe, yes," Codexia replied, before glancing at the end of the docks, her eyes falling to the disturbed waters. "It would seem their transport has arrived."
Caren stopped her musing as she glanced over the ocean, but did not see any ship or vessel coming towards them. Instead all she saw was churning waters, for a moment she thought that the fish or whatever aquatic life beneath the waves was disturbed. But then she saw it, rising from the waters and shining in the dim glow of the morning sun.
"Is that… a Gnomish Submarine?" Caren asked, shocked to see one of the fabled Gnomish exploration vessels.
These beautiful machines were one of the greatest inventions to ever come from Gnomeregan, alongside the Siege Engine and the Gyrocopter. It would allow for the exploration of the sea, no depth was unreachable to this machine. It had been something that many explorers believed to be the next step in mapping the entire world, the surface of the land and the bottom of the oceans.
"It is, I hired her because of that fact, she has some of the few remaining submarines in her hands now," Codexia replied, smiling at the shocked expression that passed over Caren's face.
"I… you certainly have some friends," Caren said, looking on in bewilderment. "I am just surprised that she could have a piece of technology such as this, it is not exactly commonplace."
"She bought them from the dock yards that was apparently built in an underwater lake. I don't know if that was true, but it is what she told me," Codexia replied with a laugh.
Soon the submarine moved up to the docks and a hatch on the side opened, a metal plank fell onto the wood and nothing else happened. The soldiers all got to their feet and took off without another word, no good byes or farewells, they just left. The doors closed and the sub took off, slowly sinking beneath the water.
"Not ones for farewells I suppose?" Caren asked, glancing at Codexia, who did not seem to be too disheartened by their departure.
"They are mercenaries; they do not get overly attached to their contracts," Codexia replied. "But I will be meeting up with them later on after my business is done here, so there is no issue really."
Codexia turned and moved with Caren back into the heart of the stronghold, musing quietly to herself how she would go about this task. While there was much knowledge in Eldre'thalas, there were only pieces of it that she needed. The hard part was getting that, because of the wide arrays of information and knowledge it would be impossible to sort through it alone.
Some help would be useful, an extra set of eyes that could sort through it. But that was inconsequential to what she had to deal with when they got there. The demons were going to be a problem, but nothing compared to the Highborne that would likely not part with their knowledge. In the many ruins she had searched she had found that the ghosts of the dead were less than accommodating, the living should be just as compliant.
Luckily she had enough power to likely bypass that obstacle, but first she had to get to the Fruit of Fertility.
"Ichigo, where is Adelina? I did not see her this morning?" Caren asked, drawing Codexia from her thoughts.
She looked up at the young man, odd features and traits were on his face, it was perplexing to see something like that. Orange hair, nothing odd about that, but the odd appearance of his eyes having a sort of fold in them was interesting.
"She is with Quintis, they're catching up," Ichigo replied. "Shandris is going to be putting us on the ship with her, and she said we will be leaving soon. You ready?"
"I am, by the way, this is Codexia Fairchild, she is a Priestess of… I am sorry I did not recall you saying who you are affiliated with?" Caren said, remembering that Codexia said she was a priest but not of who.
"Yes, I do not answer to the Church of the Holy Light, I am actually a Shadow Priest." Codexia replied, her smiling not falling like that of Caren's.
"You are a Shadow Priest," Caren said, her cheer gone and replaced with some apprehension, obviously her opinion was beginning to change.
"Please understand, while I do control the shadows I am my own person, magic is but a tool remember. It is the individual that must be held accountable, magic does not rule those who wield it," Codexia said, quickly trying to abate any possible ethical issues that may arise between the two.
"So, you're like a warlock?" Ichigo asked.
"No, warlocks delve into dark magic revolving around demonic energies, my powers are the anti-thesis to the Holy Light," Codexia replied. "I manipulate shadows and darkness to my command. There are fewer dangers to being a Priest of Shadow than a Warlock."
"But just because they are fewer does not mean it is less dangerous, shadow magic is a very dangerous art. One that can consume the person, it is just as vile as demonology," Caren said, her previous cordiality with the woman slowly leaving.
"Let us not debate this, I am an ally in this, there is no reason we should be against one another," Codexia said, trying to defuse the situation. "I only hoped to speak with you before you learn of my way of life, simply because of the stigma upon those who practice this art. I offer no ill will towards you, and I hope to receive none in return."
Caren was silent for a moment, looking at the fiery haired woman and tried to discern if she was manipulating the situation in some way. Those who dabble in dark magics were not people that could be easily trusted, they always had reasons to pursue it and none were good. The path of power is one that would destroy those who partake in it along with many others along the way.
'Still…'
Caren sighed before she decided to remain humble with this discovery, the woman had not proven herself to be a cruel mistress yet. But she would give her some leeway, if only to not cause an argument.
"I apologize; I have not met or heard of those who dabble in the dark and under good intentions," Caren said.
"There is no need, I fully understand your hesitation, but please know that I have no ill intent to any of you," Codexia replied, before she turned and looked towards Ichigo. "Now, you were introducing us."
"Right, Ichigo, this is Codexia Fairchild." Caren said, gesturing to the shadow priest and then to the Shinigami. "Codexia, this is Ichigo Kurosaki. Nothing remotely interesting."
"I see you have met Caren already, have you noticed how her posture is so straight because of the six foot stick up her ass?" Ichigo inquired, looking at Codexia who returned it with a surprised expression.
"Shut up about that! I don't even understand the meaning of it, but I can only assume if it is out of your foul mouth it is an insult or something degrading!" Caren yelled back.
"Well stop being such a bitch once and a while and I may treat you better," Ichigo argued back.
Codexia looked between them, wondering if for a moment she may have mistaken their friendly introduction as something else. Possibly them being rivals of a sort, she had no idea why she would introduce her to him if Ichigo was such a thing. Although she does recall that the mercenaries tended to bicker and insult one another, comradery was very odd in a way.
"I see you two are close friends," Codexia said, slightly amused.
"Eh, we deal with each other, kind of reminds me of a guy I once knew. And with how boyish she is and how girly he was, I have no idea if they may be related somehow," Ichigo said, before cupping his chin and appearing to be in deep contemplation as he thought about his own statement.
Caren just fumed at the accusation while grinding her teeth together.
Codexia just smiled and held back a laugh, it would seem that these two were quite close. She never herself had any friends while growing up, and even then she never really tried to make any. But too see these two argue and bicker with one another, and see nothing one could say as hatred between them, made her wonder what kind of silly little games she had missed out on.
"It is a pleasure to meet you Ichigo Kurosaki," Codexia said, raising her arm to the young man, offering her hand to shake his.
Ichigo looked down at it and grasped it, giving a quick shake.
"Nice to meet you too," Ichigo said, before he was taken by the ear by Caren, who pulled him away to berate him for making such comments in front of strangers.
As they argued Codexia however was struck frozen, her eyes wide and looking at the young orange haired warrior.
'How… can he be that powerful…?'
She had sensed it, below the surface, a well of power within him that was hidden. But she could feel it beneath the surface along with another force, she could not determine what it was but for a moment she thought it was like her own. She would need to watch and observe, to see what power he holds and what it can do. Maybe it can be of use to her when she enters Endre'thalas.
'I will need to keep an eye on him; learn more about what he is.' Codexia thought, already formulating a plan to determine exactly what the boy was and how he acquired that strange seal.
There we have it, and I would like to thank everyone this year who stuck with this story and enjoyed it. A Merry Christmas to you all!
Reviews:
Krazyfanfiction1: Glad you like it. The Holy Light has negative effects on dark and evil entities, and as for Ichigo it would affect his Hollow half quite severely because it is a creature of despair. It would likely try to tear him apart and despite his power the Light can do a bit of damage to him. Likely even kill him and cause burns that likely cannot heal. But for Ichigo, so long as that hollow power does not manifest it shouldn't affect him.
Leapinglemur: Glad you like it.
Guest #1: ….
Mad Thought: Ichigo and Onyxia will eventually meet, and their interaction will be interesting to say the least.
Kragh50: Glad you like it, also most of his powers are even a mystery to himself. But in time he will learn and so will the rest of Azeroth.
Guisniperman: Yeah, the Black Dragonflight is not all rainbows and sunshine sadly, and my plans for Onyxia are going to be different from canon, trust me. And you are right about Chromie, killing Ichigo is going to be harder than she thinks.
Reality Deviant: Happy to oblige.
Black Cross0: Yes, she is the Daughter of Deathwing and Sinestra.
MSG1000: You sneaky bastard, made me look -3-
Earendil: That is true, the badge was given to him to not only limit his power while in contact with him but also to monitor him. After all he is an unknown and despite what he did in revealing Aizen's treachery the Gotei doesn't take half measures and simply trust people. After all it is illegal for Ichigo to have his powers, so letting him live without contingencies is unlikely. He may have changed them, but they are still the Gotei. But considering the previous Substitutes it is understandable why they did it.
The Bronze Dragonflight is even worse than the Gotei in terms of how they maintain order and control. Severe isolationists and often do not trust humans worth a damn and have a very high superiority complex. But luckily Ichigo is on the way.
Star: Thank you, if I cannot take a hit from someone, then how can I hit them back?
Jahm: Thank you, killing is different from murder. To kill someone with reason is not evil, but to murder without cause or for something personal is evil. Ichigo fighting to survive is not evil, to kill to protect others is not evil. He knows this, but when it comes to killing for no reason he will not deliver the blow. He had mercy, and is willing to show it more often than not. Even against those who would see him dead he would give it.
He is a better man than most, and that is what makes him so unique.
Blindluck92: They were convinced Ichigo was different, this only gives it some proof and Jaina's words do carry a lot of weight to them. That is right, Ichigo doesn't leave things half done, no he does not. When a problem shows up he will fix it, unless it is a woman thing, than he blushes and turns away like a gentleman.
Telron: Thank you.
Meech Macho: Glad you like it. And more trouble is brewing in the world and Ichigo is going to be stuck in the damn hurricane of problems that are going to rise up. Trust me on that. And trust me, the fights will get harder, much harder as he goes on.
Yeah, you don't fall in love instantly, it takes time and effort to do. Learning about someone and falling for what you learn is more important than big boobs or a six pack. But the boobs help. Ichigo is definitely a boobs man.
Yeah, but deities are like shakes at McDonalds, they come in different sizes. And often size also means power.
Nerfreader69: Jezz, calm down dude, I write what I feel is right and do things with consideration, if you realized this issue started off small and then began to grow. If you realized that he gave no qualms about the Naga, then the Quilboar, but began to hesitate and then start getting worried about killing down the line you may have realized this popped up out of nowhere. Now why would that happen? An underlying issue that he does not see that is beginning to affect him. A problem he doesn't know about, but luckily I am at the point in the story that it is revealed and he finally realizes the problem. So tell me now what you think and if you still don't like it, stop reading.
Guest #2: All very good points and I agree with them. Ichigo is always someone that has let his lack of experience in deadly situations like these get the better of him. Hesitation is not something he can have, he is willing to go in for the kill but for a reason. To survive, to protect others, to stop the one being killed from doing something heinous. That is who he is, and he is willing to make a sacrifice, so long as he believes in what he is doing.
But he can be brought low if someone plays with his emotions, and that is where he lacks strength.
Drow79: Thanks, it will be interesting when that happens.
Epyon111: Ichigo will eventually attain more gear and some weapons, although he will be reluctant to use them simply because he doesn't feel like it. After all he is not above using other tools, it is just he needs a reason to use them and find the benefits of using them.
Fl4mekill3r: Thank you, the original had a few plot wise and character wise issues, I kept some of those character issues but gave them a bit more depth and reason for existing. Also do not worry, he will eventually be forced to learn how to harness his powers in order to get stronger.
Do not worry, there is no Yaoi here.
CrazyQuilava: Glad you like it, really improved on writing speed since United, really has given me a speed that I have never really achieved before. Also I am humbled to think that you feel my story is unique that few others can compare. Thank you again.
: I have posted it, go take a look!
WhoFeedYasou: Sorry, that wasn't meant for you. I do try and make this story informative without taking away from the narrative. But if you have played Warcraft III, only that, I would recommend Warcrafts I and II to get a feel for the rest of the world. It will certainly be needed. Also I am not making him gay, where is this gay stuff coming from?
AlekTas: I am glad you stuck around too, after all I did not want Ichigo to come off as a sob but I wanted to convey something was wrong with him but not give it away. And him misinterpreting the reason he was feeling so down because of his fears is because I wanted it to be revealed as a surprise.
Also do not worry, this arc was meant to be Ichigo coming to terms with these issues, them appearing in their purest form and him facing them. But this arc is much more different, trust me.
