Here it is, another chapter of the much acclaimed Transcendence, don't know why it is an alright story I suppose. This chapter will be the only one in the next week or two, sadly I am working overtime and needing to catch up on work, ten hour shifts every day for the next week, including the weekends, that is seventy hours in a week. Nearly double my usual working hours, damn better get overtime for this.
But I will try to write some more, if not I won't. But I do intend to play some World of Warcraft, gonna level up my ALTS!
Also, be sure to check out the new poll on my Profile, you may like this one.
Transcendence
Chapter 43: Legends Become Known
Ogrimmar
Thrall sat motionless upon his throne, hand grasping his chin and his green face creased as he narrowed his eyes in thought. The flickering flames cast many shadows around the chamber, and upon himself, catching against his black and golden trimmed armour. He said nothing as he digested the information that had been brought to him, only the flickering of his eyes and the drumming of his large fingers upon the metal head of Doomhammer made him out to be more than a statue upon a throne.
Finally he looked upon the one who had pushed him into the trance, a hulking orc warrior in dark marron armour with dark green skin. Half his was burnt, and his eyes having turned as white as milk. Yet the frown and glare in his eyes spoke of the severity of his presence and reason for being, for what had been delivered was a tale Thrall had not expected to hear from the Warlord.
"A spirit, in the form of a human, possessing great strength and power," Thrall mused, unclasping his chin and ceasing him drumming along his mighty Warhammer.
"Correct, the boy defeat a Void Terror singlehandedly, cut both its heads off with just two swings, and moved at speeds faster than the eye can see," Morgosh replied, his heavily muscled and armoured arms crossed over his chest. "More than that he possessed a power so potent I could feel it crashing upon my shoulders, it felt as if the entire world around me grew heavy."
Thrall had understood that indeed, many a time he had come before entities that exuded a similar aura of power. The elemental spirits, who had gifted him with their power and wisdom many years ago and still do today, and some demons as well had the ability to throw out their very will and power as if it were a blanket to smother those around them.
Yet Thrall had not heard of this from a human being, not in the spiritual of sense. For he knew mages and warlocks could make themselves appear mighty with a show of magic and force, but they did not possess the power to simply do so with their mere presence. To stand before someone and bask in the sheer might that one possessed, to do and perform nothing yet still possess an intimidating and daunting aura, that was the show of true power.
"Troubling indeed mon,"
Thrall glanced to his long-time friend and close adviser, a troll with ocean blue fur with a wild long mohawk of red hair, Vol'jin of the Darkspear Tribe. Yet he was not the only one who stood there, the hall had been emptied of all who could not spread a word of this meeting, for behind the troll stood another orc. Pale skin, near ashen in colour, with long white hair showed the many years that weighed down on this orcs shoulders yet did not make him bow to it.
"Power like that, to simply stand there and expel his own power and not care, either he be reckless, or otherworldly powerful," Voljin said, stepping forward and bringing his blue three fingered hand to his chin, stroking his three braided beard. "If this spirit is as you say, a being from beyond this world, and from the Nether, we may not be dealing with something we have seen before."
While the report from Morgosh had only the barest of information, in no thanks to the fact that he was halted from gathering information himself, he had tasked another to gather more after his departure. Raizzariza had been the one to gather it, silently observing and spying on the boy during the long week he stayed within the city, and he had gotten them much on the subject of this Ichigo Kurosaki.
His name helping in show how alien he is compared to the humans of Azeroth, yet the name of his own kind further added to the mystery of what he was. A Shinigami, some form of Death Spirit that collected souls of the departed, using their own swords as a key to send the spirits away. Apparently Raizzariza had witnessed him sending off trapped Highborne spirits to the next world, tapping them against the forehead with the pummel of his massive blade.
So much had been gathered, yet more questioned remained than answers, and while his origins and nature interested them they grew concerned with his motives. For the youth also sought knowledge himself, knowledge pertaining to dimensional travel, knowledge on the Twisting Nether and bridging the gaps between worlds.
He had on many occasions discussed with his allies the importance of returning to his world, while other snippets were mentioned they were discarded. For what he proposed alone was what concerned them, for the bridging of worlds has never been a subject that has ended upon good note. Powerful magic such as that can end worlds, in the right hands or those borne of ill intent, as had happened to Draenor many years ago.
This was troubling news, but it only worsened when it was discovered that he was connected to Theramore.
"You think she knows?" Vol'jin asked, Thrall knowing exactly who the troll was referring to.
"Most definitely, I know her, she would not be so blind to see that he is more than he is," Thrall replied.
Jaina had always been able to read into people, a quick glance and a short talk would be enough for her to make up her mind on someone. For her not to know who this Ichigo was, to not know what he is capable of and his own desires, would be unbelievable in his eyes.
Jaina had to know of his power, after all, the meagre force sent by the Sentinels to combat the Legion in Dire Maul was comparable to their own, numbering only five hundred strong. Even with both the Sentinel's and Warsong working together it would have been near impossible. Even Morgosh had lamented that it was more than his own skill and leadership that won the battle, the alliance with the Sentinels had helped considerably, but it was the boy that turned the tide.
It was the boy and his actions that had won them the city and a final victory.
Ichigo had been at each crucial turning point that would have determined the outcome of the conflict, for defeat in any of these moments would have resounded in a similar outcome to the whole battle. Destroying the Legions main staging grounds for their invasion, turning all the Ancients within the city against their demon controllers, and finally defeating the Dreadlord and his Void Terror guard dog.
The boy had accomplished all these tasks where no normal human could, no mortal could, and now they had a legitimate reason why.
But the questioned remained, why would Jaina trust him?
"Perhaps he has gained her trust somehow, and that of the Sentinel-General." Etrigg said, the old orc examining the missive and reports given by the other officers. "Maybe even someone within the Tauren clans."
It was a strange thing for the officers to make reports, but Morgosh had been adamant on getting whatever information he could from those who had been in contact with the boy. It was crudely worded, yet still held the extravagance in details and exploits one would often hear within a tale woven in a tavern of pyre during celebration, truly the report of someone trying to show themselves to be more than what they are.
And Uruk Bloodtooth's report was just that.
Uruk's report detailed his mission to destroying the Legion's main staging ground, and the aid he was provided by Ichigo and a few Sentinels. It was mostly skimmed through, appearing to be no more than a footnote, but there was some detail regarding an assault upon a building that held several of their warriors trapped.
The boy had actually charged into the enemy lines and attempted to save them, an act that had made the Sergeant give Etrigg an actual paragraph to read regarding the human's exploits. He had saved some of them, a small squad of Warsong warriors, and Sierra Skychaser.
"Something like that would be commended, risking one's life and near certain demise to save someone meant to be your enemy? That is an act of honour that many would remember, even if it hurt their pride to do it," Etrigg said, glancing at Thrall and that brief look was enough to remind Thrall of what the elder orc spoke of.
It was true that such an act would be applauded, such a recklessly brave act that succeeded would be considered a heroic moment that would be remembered. In fact, such a thing has already been spread, Thrall had receive a message from Cairne of the events in Dire Maul several days past to alert him of the success before Morgosh returned. He told him several things, the Alliance with the Sentinels, the taking of the city and in particular the act of bravery that had saved the chieftain of the Skychaser clan.
By a young warrior from Theramore.
If Cairne had mentioned it than it had significance with his people, for this act of comradery could be used to reinforce peace and cooperation. Acts such as these are best used to help reinforce that the Alliance and Horde can work together.
But now Thrall sees that this in a different light, this had spread too many clans, and while the Skychaser clan spread themselves among many other tribes; the speed in which this news took root now seemed too quick. For it moved ahead faster than this damning report of a potential danger from beyond this world, creating a different image towards this one man that is not of this world.
"It seems that someone wishes to create an image for him, create an icon before it can be smeared," Thrall said aloud. "The Tauren would likely not be so quick to think ill of him now that they know what he has done for one of their own, even if they discover what he is, that image will not be changed, for it has taken root long before his name can be sullied."
It was smart, the Tauren have always been much more peaceful and open towards the people of Theramore and the peace treaty with the Alliance. Acts like these would be welcomed and respected, especially if a very well-known individual had been saved, and any bad publicity often was reflected by the good that had been done.
'It appears that Shandris is already anticipating what is happening,' Thrall thought, knowing well her skills dabble in more than just warfare.
"What could he have done that could have gained her trust?" Vol'jin replied. "Met her before, she be a good judge of character, but even she has her limits towards those who are… inhuman."
Thrall would agree, after all he and her mutual partnership had been far from civil at first, but after many weeks together they did form a friendship that lasted and remained firm. Yet this boy had somehow not only gained her trust, but her assistance in opening a potential gateway to another world, something that did not come from random kindness or generosity.
He had done something, something so big that it warranted her to repay him, yet Thrall could not think of anything that would make Jaina so willing to dabble in such dangerous magic. For she cared more about her city and its people than anything else, the only other thing was possibly the treaty, if either one of those were threatened she would act brazenly. But what could this boy have done in such a short time to make her consider trusting him?
Then it hit him, recent event coming to mind, something that now looking back upon he could see striking similarities. There was only one thing that came to his mind that could be linked, so close and starting so abruptly that they finish just as quick, the boy had to be involved.
"You are not wrong, Vol'jin, Jaina would not trust this Shinigami unless he has proven himself. Yet, I have heard of a young human who has done something like this before, something so drastic that it has earned him favour in circles not his own." Thrall replied. "I assume you all know of Shady Rest."
There was no need to answer, the mere mention of it told them enough. What was once a little town that few knew of outside the Alliance, had become something almost the entire Horde had become aware of. Particularly the massacre that had taken place there.
When word had reached Thrall he knew what this would mean for the Horde, accusations of attacking an Alliance Settlement on the borders of the Barrens and Dustwallow Marsh. There would be violence erupting between the two factions as they try to determine who was specifically responsible, and the treaty in danger of crumbling under the weight of this conspiracy.
If it became public knowledge that is, but secrecy had been maintained at first, for conspiracies must remain hidden from the public eye at all costs. For the first few days they had done that, keeping everything hidden and underwraps for as long as possible, everything was hidden until they could find any evidence. Thrall had sent out an investigator within the hour he had heard about what happened, and the next day he returned to report his findings.
What he had received shocked him.
The investigation was over, as soon as it began it had ended the moment his man had arrived, for the conspiracy had been unravelled by those caught up in it. A contingent of Tauren braves protecting the Gold Road through the Barren, one of their own investigating possible leads in Thunderbluff. By the end of his investigation he had acquired all the evidence needed to implicate the Grimtotem Tribe in the massacre, instigated by Kul Tiras attacks along the Gold Road, and cleared the Horde of any wrongdoing.
Yet when questioned how they came to learn of the Grimtotem's and Kul Tiras' involvement one Brave had told them of a warrior from Theramore. A young man who had come to their camp, knocking out their leader with a single punch, and demanded they prove that they were not responsible for the massacre. Then he gave them a shield and a name before sending him off to prove their innocence.
It utterly baffled Thrall when he had learned of the result of the investigation, that some young warrior would involve the suspect in the massacre and demand they prove their innocence.
"You think this is the same one?" Morgosh inquired.
"What the boy has done led to the uncovering the plot of treachery by the Grimtotem and maintaining the treaty between the Alliance and Horde," Thrall replied. "The fact he included the Horde in this matter and allowed us to investigate, while strange and foolish, has struck a chord with many."
It was true, the idea of actually going to those who are suspect and demanding that they prove their innocence was inconceivable. If this Ichigo was the one who had gone to the Braves to demand explanation he must have known he couldn't trust them, simply because they were suspects, yet he gave them a chance to prove their honor. Then actually cooperating with evidence and testimonies upon what was learned by both parties, something he himself had to exchange with Jaina privately to determine if it was not false.
Both this act of cooperation regarding Shady Rest and the rescue of a prominent spiritual leader within the Tauren community would leave a lasting impression. Even if the latter had been likely coerced to spread the word through her people it still did not take away the weight of the action itself.
"Cairne had come to Ogrimmar personally, wishing to send thanks to Jaina Proudmoore for the actions of her people. The respect and consideration shown towards his people has been returned in kind, there has never been a time I feel that Theramore is more of an ally to the Tauren, and the Horde," Thrall replied, silently he shared his old friends joy in these unexpected development. "If he can stir that response in my old friend, by action and trust, I must assume he can do the same with Jaina."
"Yes, but is it something to be concerned about," Morgosh replied. "The boy is fixated on his world, returning there he may say, but we know nothing of his true intentions and the powers that lay beyond and within his homeworld. This is something we must be wary of."
Thrall did not doubt there was wisdom in those words, for not all men were alike as the human saying goes. He knew not of the boy in question, only rumours and crude reports that offered nothing on who he was, but his own kin may be vastly different than he. Their motives and ideology vastly different than his own, and that was to be wary of.
He needed information, he needed to know exactly who this Ichigo Kurosaki is and what he represents. Both in character, something Thrall feels will live up to the expectations already raised in this meeting, and those of his own species.
"I will see to this personally," Thrall replied, before rising from his throne and giving the Warlord a nod of recognition. "Throm'ka Morgosh, return to your quarters, I will speak with you another time, for now I must muse on these developments."
Morgosh slammed his fist onto his chest and bowed his head, and without a word he departed the large empty hall and left the three within. Thrall watched him go, the chamber doors opening and closing with his departure, and when they were in complete privacy he spoke candidly with his advisors.
"I will speak with Jaina soon, she will need to be made aware of the development regarding the boy, I am surprised that she did not mention this earlier with Shady Rest," Thrall mused.
"Likely there was nothing to tell, but for now, what are we gonna do about this Shinigami? The Shaman's say he is powerful, and that can also mean dangerous." Vol'jin replied. "In the hands of the Alliance, we would be in grave danger. Wars are often started because one side has an advantage over the other."
Thrall knew that Vol'jin was being biased in his own way, he had little love for humans and elves, but that came from his own personal history, and that of his clans, dealing with them. Trolls, along with nearly all members of the Horde, had bad reputations with the Alliance, and often for good reason. But Thrall knew humans well, being raised by them as a slave has its advantages, they were often too proud with their values. Their honour and civility would keep them from breaking the treaty, unwilling to be the instigators without cause; they often reserved that for the Horde.
"I know you do not trust them, but I know that they will hold to their word while the treaty is honoured. Have faith my friend, I will learn about this Ichigo Kurosaki soon enough," Thrall reassured the troll.
Jaina would be the only one that could tell him for certain that if this boy was a potential danger or not, and depending on what answer he was given would decide his course of action. He just hoped that waiting would not put the Horde and Theramore at risk.
As he offered the reassuring words the doors to the chamber were pushed open, a single Kor'krom stomping into the room and giving a crisp salute.
"What is it?" Thrall's command echoed through the chamber.
"Warchief, we have received word from Far Watch Post, a contingent of Burning Blade warriors have made attempt to cross the bridge and into Durotar," The Kor'krom stated.
"Burning Blade? Why would they dare come towards Durotar and think they can leave alive?" Thrall questioned, narrowing his eyes as a scowl formed along his brow.
They had always been a thorn in his side, even those few that reside within his walls were considered pains that he had no choice but to deal with for a time. They had nearly instigated war with the Alliance because of their actions, which was narrowly avoided and halted before it could build momentum.
"Have the guards upon the Outpost held? Do they require reinforcements?" Thrall bellowed.
"No Warchief, these Burning Blade clansman seek peaceful refuge within our nation," The Kor'krom replied.
"I have enough warlocks roaming beneath my feet as is, I do not care to have anymore," Thrall replied.
"They are not Warlocks, the missive says that they are in fact, Blademasters," The Kor'krom replied. "Forty of them in fact, all of them having escaped from the clutches of their warlock masters in the Desolace. They wish for refuge and if possible, to serve the Horde."
Thrall showed actual surprise by this, forty Blademasters were on the borders of his nation and wishing for refuge and to serve? Something like this seemed almost too good to be true, after all, the Blademasters were the elite amongst the warrior caste within the orcish race.
Blademasters were just as the title suggested, masters of the blade, wielding unparalleled skill and ability with the blade and making up the greatest of warriors that have existed for generations. Even before the Horde was formed the Burning Blade was known to be a legendary clan that boasted some of the greatest warriors upon all of Draenor.
But after their fall to demonic influence the Blademasters had become slaves to the warlock's dark will and used as nothing more than glorified slave warriors. Few of the once noble warrior caste remained untainted by demonic influence, but that was less than half of what was being boasted to be standing at the borders of his nation.
'What could have spurred this? Where did they come from so suddenly?' Thrall mused. "Did they say where they came from specifically, and how it is that they were freed?"
The Kor'krom nodded his head and produced the report from the outpost. Thrall took it and quickly skimmed the document, reading upon the Blademasters alliance with a Mercary Company in the Desolace and with a woman. But what drew his attention was what this woman was, apparently she claimed to be a Primalist, an form of Shaman.
Then he read something that surprised him, the mention of two things that had taken the air from his lungs and near sapped the strength from his limbs. Her powers came from two elemental forces, both of which Thrall knew very well in his teachings with Drek'thar. This woman controlled polar opposites within the spiritual realm, the Spirit of Life and the Spirit of Decay.
"Sent word to Cairne, I need his help and any Shaman's he can spare," Thrall said aloud, turning to Etrigg and wanting him personally to oversee this. "I need to see what is going on in the Desolace."
Theramore Isle
Ichigo let out a sigh as he landed his Gryphon in the middle of the Theramore plaza, glad to be out of the air and finally somewhere that he could relax after being away for over a week. His time in Dire Maul had been a damn stressful one, considering all that had happened there he couldn't argue that everything ended on a sour note.
With his limitations coming into play, concerning the fact his own Bankai nearly killed him, and the fact that his actions there have revealed him to the Horde. While Shandris reassured him that she had taken some action to lessen the blow he would still likely be in trouble soon. Word getting out what he is would not help him, even if he had done several good deeds. So he had that to look forward to.
"Ichigo, welcome back,"
The substitute turned to find Lorena standing just outside the doorway of the Citadel, the massive tower that stood upon the mound in the very centre of Theramore. She had her arms crossed and looked expectant, likely wishing to know how things had developed during their escapades in Dire Maul, and more than likely that same feeling was shared by Jaina.
"Hey," Ichigo casually greeted in return.
He turned to see that Adelina and Caren dropped in next, soon followed by the rest of the guards that had made it back from Dire Maul alive. He noticed three Gryphons that were without riders, now that he thinks about it the feeling of going into a fight and coming out with fewer people is very frightening and depressing. He didn't know them, their names or even their faces, and yet they were dead and he did not have a clue about who they were and what they left behind in this world.
"Come, let's speak of this in the tower, I am sure Jaina will be eager to hear of what happened," Lorena replied, turning on her heels and entering the tower and out of sight.
Ichigo turned to Adelina and Caren, both of them strolling up beside him, and with a silent affirmation they followed after Lorena. Rising up the many spiralling staircases and to the top floor, waiting for them were Jaina herself alongside her handmaiden Aegwynn and Tervosh.
Tervosh had returned nearly instantly after the defeat of the demons, opting to teleport back to Theramore and alert Jaina to the incident and take immediate action. Apparently the Highborne running around outside the walls was of great concern; especially since they have no idea what they are capable of or willing to do in order to remain safe.
"Welcome back, it is good to see your safe return," Jaina said, smiling in greeting and beckoning them all forward.
"Hey Jaina," Ichigo said, giving a casual wave towards the Queen of Theramore.
Much to his surprise he found her face morph into uncertainty for a moment, as if she was concerned and wanting to ask him something. But it was quickly hidden, her trademark smile returning, although he could still see a flicker of concern in her eyes.
"Ichigo, are you well? Tervosh has told me that you suffered severe wounds and were near death when he departed." Jaina inquired, and the substitute guessed that maybe with news of his injuries she may have gotten worried about his condition.
But despite that guess, and the likelihood of that being the problem, he felt that something else was wrong.
"I'm good, got a Spirit of Nature or something to heal me up," Ichigo replied, nonchalantly he might add, deciding to ignore that feeling for now.
"A Spirit of Nature?" Jaina replied, her expression going from surprised before frowning slightly as she mulled over this titbit of information. "Could it possibly be? Are you certain that it is a Spirit of Nature?"
"Yeah, she said so herself, we freed her from a tree called the Fruit of Fertility, apparently she was sleeping in it." Ichigo replied, rubbing the back of his head, Jaina looked a little shocked by this reply and for the life of him he couldn't understand why. "Anyway, when I was injured she put me in a pod and I was healed, fixed all my bones and said something about bringing out something, whatever that means."
"Yes, we all recall that, specifically you screaming like a girl when you had no clothes on," Caren said, smirking slightly and continuing her attempts to get a rise out of Ichigo.
To her slight joy she found his cheeks redden, just noticeable to show that he comment had struck home.
"Yeah, and you were there looking at me the whole time, you damn perv," Ichigo grumbled back, glaring back at her.
"Yet with the way you shrieked and hollered I had to wonder if you were actually a man, after all you covered yourself so quick I didn't see anything remotely male, tell me does this happen a lot?" Caren inquired, enjoying showing up the boy that had been the thorn in her side when it comes to arguments for as long as they have known each other. "Have you ever been mistaken for a girl?"
"No, have you?" Ichigo replied, almost automatically, and he felt very proud of himself right now.
Mainly because he saw Caren scowl and grit her teeth at the quick and causal comeback, she never did like it when someone brought up her femininity. Kind of why it was the easiest way to defuse something with her, because she got so angry that she didn't rant or rave but just glowered and cursed at you under her breath.
"Ahem," Caren and Ichigo turned to Jaina, who appeared slightly amused by the short argument. "While I am sure to ask Adelina all the juicy details later, I think maybe we should continue. Do any of you know why this spirit was in Dire Maul?"
Ichigo glanced at Adelina, who was smiling slightly as if she was enjoying the coming talk with the Queen, he was really dreading the little friendship those two had struck up. Mainly because Adelina could be so embarrassing, especially that time she made out that Ichigo only came here to stare at Jaina's chest. But he fought down that dread and decided to focus on something less overtly sexual.
"She called herself Druantia, and said that she was a patron of the city, from what I could get from her she seemed to have been the cause of why Eldre'thalass was built by the Elves, turns out that they were once Shamanistic before they became mages." Caren answered.
That made the three mages before them appear surprised, the Night Elves once practiced Shamanism? It was understandable, considering the personality of the Highborne and what they stood for, their history was marred with a supremacy attitude and complete lack of compassion for things they saw as lower than themselves.
After all Shamanism requires the individual to actually give a damn about the world and all life within it, often not taking any side unless that side supported the balance and stability of the world. Even now the Night Elves only close connection to Shamanism was technically through Druidism, but there was a major difference and divergence between those two paths comes from philosophical and religious beliefs.
"More than that it also seems that Druantia is also some sort of patron of an ancient Shamanistic branch known as Primalism," Caren continued. "I don't know the specifics but apparently the elves studied it for a time."
"Then you are one of the rare few who have spoken with such a spirit, let alone seen her in physical form," Jaina said, eliciting a few curious gazed from those around her. "For what you saw was actually a powerful elemental being, one that is so rare and reclusive that contacting her is only possible through meditation and other shamanistic practices, you called her the Spirit of Nature, but she is also known as the Spirit Elemental or the Element of the Wilds."
"Truly?" Adelina said, joining the conversation when she heard these titles, her eyes brightening with wonder. "This is the spirit that is said to allow Shaman's to call to the elements? Said to be the guide that gives its own blessing to allow a Shaman to control and use the elemental forces?"
It was not exactly clear how Shaman's commune and speak with the elements and use their power so easily, let alone come into contact with them. But what information they can gather is that there is a powerful elemental that allows mortals to commune and use the powers of other elementals. Often it is associated with nature, and said to be formless and existing within all things that lived, and have power that dwarfs all other Elemental Spirits.
"Yes, I learned of this when I journeyed with Thrall when I first came to Kalimdor, he told me much of the elements and how they operate, he even told me of his joining and the ritual that connected him to the spirits," Jaina replied, seemingly enjoying herself as she recounted the memory. "Each Shaman is inducted by communing with the elements and being tested of their worth, it is through this Elemental that a Shaman can commune with the others and use their power."
The theory was that all life was connected through the Spirit of Life, and that she in turn connected them to the elements, all that was needed was a reason and assurance that the individual was worthy of their aid. If they passed the test and the spirit found them worthy they would be given permission to call upon the elements and prove their worth to them in turn. It was this spirit that had the final say, and often the only say when it came to allowing a Shaman to speak with the Elemental Spirits.
But the fact it had appeared in physical form, it was strange and incredibly confusing to say the least, it did not make any sense for something to powerful to bring itself out into the world like that. Thrall had mentioned that this spirit was often elusive and did not come to aid of others unless it directly required her attention in maintaining the balance. So the fact it was actually within the city, apparently lying dormant within a tree, was a massive shock that something so powerful and reclusive could exist within the physical world.
"Regardless of this discovery it is good that you have all returned, and that you are well," Jaina replied. "With the disappearance of the Highborne most of the Night Elf nation will be moving to locating them and preventing them from causing a catastrophe."
"You say that as if they are going to go around and start making trouble for themselves," Ichigo replied.
"While I know little of their culture, apart from firsthand accounts, the Highborne are very proud and rigid in their ideology and have been known to overstep themselves when it comes to magic," Jaina said. "It is actually one of the reasons that the High Elves of Quel'thalas existed, their ancestors were Highborne who did not wish to stop using the arcane even after the Sundering. While the High Elves had maintained some form of equilibrium and control, we do not know if these Highborne can truly be trusted with more power, especially if they were starved of it for so long."
"Wouldn't surprise me," Caren mumbled.
Knowing that the Highborne could do just that, being deprived of major magical sustenance can be very detrimental to people. Her master had told her, along with several High Elves, of the Blood Elves that still reside in their fallen Capital and were scrounging for any magical fonts to replace the lost Sunwell. It was said that they actively fed off fel poisoned areas because they were that desperate.
These elves have known untold centuries or millennia of hunger, there was no telling how far they would go for just a taste of anything related to the arcane. But that taste also led to the need to use that magic, for it was a rush to have the power and use it. Even she herself felt the desire to cast spells and use her magic continuously, it was addictive at times and without training and discipline you often were as much a danger to yourself as well as others.
"Because of this Shandris will likely be securing the borders of Feralas to prevent them from escaping, and if they have escaped to at least begin searching for them in the surrounding regions," Jaina said. "They are in an unknown and unforgiving world now; it is unlikely they will know where they can go to be safe."
"Maybe not," Caren replied. "We know for certain that someone is leading them, possibly to safety and at the Spirit of Life's request."
Jaina looked surprised once more, again the Spirit was mentioned and seemed to be having a direct influence in the actions of mortals. Tervosh had told her of some powerful spirit that had freed the many enslaved Ancients within Dire Maul and set them upon the demons. But that was before she realized it was a Spirit of Life, a being who often had little dealings with mortals and was very recluse in what it did.
But it actually having someone sent to help the elves? Asking them to save the elves, that did not seem right.
"Who?"
"Her name is Codexia, and considering previous interactions with her I can only assume that she is somehow leading the Highborne, maybe even to safety." Caren replied.
Ichigo did not doubt that, it had been a massive debate back when they were in Dire Maul, Shandris had suspected Codexia was up to something when she joined with them. More specifically she seemed to be aware of Ichigo and his powers, Shandris relaying that she wanted Ichigo on the mission to find the Fruits of Fertility, which did not sit well with the substitute. More than that, it also seemed that is all likelihood that the woman herself may be a Primalist.
Evidence was non-existent to prove this, but the fact that she went after something she personally said was the source of Primalism in the ancient world could only mean she was after the spirit to gain that power. This meant that they had a highly intelligent and manipulative woman leading possibly hundreds of Highborne across Kalimdor, and even after a week that had been no sightings, that did not bode well for anyone.
"I see, has Pained been alerted to this?" Jaina asked.
"She remained behind to help Shandris, saying she would coordinate with her contacts and see if she can dig anything up about Codexia and maybe where the Highborne are going," Adelina answered.
"Then we should trust in them to handle this," Jaina replied, although she had her reservations on simply allowing a very volatiles matter being handled without her knowing.
She would see about contacting Pained and Shandris and hopefully gain any intelligence on what they know about this Codexia and also if there have been any sightings of the Highborne. Pre-emptive action would be prudent, although in Shandris' case that would involve attacking without regard for the lives she is taking.
If the Highborne are threatened and depending on whatever motives are guiding this Codexia it could be dangerous to simply attack without knowing what they both can do. But right now this incident is in the hands of the Sentinels, until they discover something Jaina cannot act on anything.
"But still, what of Dire Maul now? What is to happen to the city?" Jaina inquired.
"Shandris said they would turn it into a base of operations, take most of the city and use it for themselves, they plan to station a massive garrison down there," Ichigo replied, and while it was likely he missed the motivation behind this action Jaina did not.
Shandris has always wanted to secure Ferelas from any aggressors, particularly the Horde who has been decimating much of eastern Ashenvale with their lumbering. Because of this Tyrande has likely gone to great lengths to preventing them from getting a major foothold in Feralas, and this is likely another such step. She just hoped that the Horde does not retaliate against this, movement of armies in Contested regions is never a good idea, some may think you intend to take it over.
"Excellent, I think maybe you all should retire for the day, the journey here must have been exhausting," Jaina replied. "If I need you I will send for you."
Ichigo turned to Adelina and Caren, giving a half-hearted shrug before moving for the stairs, the meeting wasn't all that massive in terms of information being exchanged. But more than likely whatever accounts they could give wouldn't be as detailed as those she likely could scrounge up from Pained or Shandris, so he didn't dwell on it.
Although he got the feeling that she actually wanted him to be somewhere else, the way she looked at him, it really unsettled him how she looked a little conflicted. Already he found a dozen different reasons as to why this was, from his Badge being useless and to her reaching a dead end in her research. Technically it was all minor things that led to a single issue, him being unable to return back home.
'Maybe I should talk with her later, see what's going on,' Ichigo mused.
But before that he needed to look into something, he never had the chance to do it before and that was a problem. His abilities have seemed to have diminished since he got this human body, but the fact his own powers had near killed him was something he needed to determine.
That meant he needed to do some training.
Jaina watched them depart from the tower and let out a sigh, she could tell that Ichigo knew something was amiss. Likely suspecting that something had come of her research, probably along the lines of her being unable to send him home, he was not wrong but it was actually both an omen of good and ill.
"You should tell him," Aegwynn said, giving Jaina a critical stare. "Hiding this from him won't do him any good."
"And neither will revealing it, he may not accept this, considering his already fragile state and his desperation to return home, hearing this may make him question everything he is trying to do," Jaina replied, strolling over to her desk and looking down at the Substitute Shinigami Badge.
Over the week that Ichigo and his companions had been gone she had been in contact and working with a Technomancer, Lobrick Wobblespinner, a skilled gnomish magical engineer whose knowledge of the arcane and machinery was near unparalleled. They had done much work together, and uncovered the secrets to the badge, and when everything was revealed Jaina had grown concerned.
"He may already know of the Badge and its function, the boy may be bull-headed at times but even he is not stupid enough not to see that the badge is not normal," Aegwynn replied.
"Not normal and detrimental are two different things, this object was designed to siphon his power and limit its, more than that it is actually releasing a continual signal that is transmitting all information it gathers somewhere else," Jaina replied.
The Badge was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, designed to fulfil multiple functions with no issues due to limited parts and design, truly it was something highly advanced in the spiritual sense. But in turn it appeared that the device was mostly designed to restrain and monitor Ichigo, and from what Lobrick had discovered the signal traverses spiritual dimensions. Meaning that the badge can monitor him almost anywhere, Lobrick was entranced by the technology and begged to know where it came from.
Jaina did not part with the information, fearing that if that information was released the owner would be put in danger, and that same fear is what kept her from telling him about this as well.
"Ichigo trusts them, he spoke highly of several Shinigami that he knew, even that one named Rukia," Jaina recalled that many of his retellings of his friends came from his interactions with her specifically, she and him were close, very close. "If I deliver this to him and tell him what I have learned he would not handle it well, you know how he is with those he cares for."
Aegwynn did know, very well did she know.
"He would likely try to deny it, but if there is a sliver of doubt he would wonder if they were to be trusted in turn, and if going back is actually a good idea," Aegwynn replied. "There may be details we are unaware of, or simply do not fully comprehend the people whom Ichigo trusts, but in my experience gods like these often cannot be trusted in matters of morality. It is often that they place themselves above such things, and keep away from such earthly concepts."
Gods, of many kinds, did not often share the same ideology and beliefs as the humans and mortals that prayed to them. Greater spiritual beings were often hard to decipher in terms of motive and reason, for they had their own calling and dogma that they followed and would not deviate from it. These Shinigami, Gods of Death and Ferryman of lost souls, who do not interact with humans and often segregate themselves so far away from those they watch over, that is not the type of person you involve yourself with.
"If he were to think that the people he trusted may not return that same respect, people he bled for and fought beside, it may tear his heart to realize." Jaina said. "He may not handle this well."
"I do not think you are giving him enough credit, Ichigo did hold fast against the demons, and despite past trauma's he did not succumb to his doubts and fears while fighting through them, he is strong," Tervosh said.
"His greatest strength comes from protecting those he cares about, but it is also his weakness, those he cherishes are like the foundations of his heart and soul, if one crumbles or is taken away, it will fall apart and tremble, and if many are taken, it will be crushed," Jaina replied, for all his strength and power Ichigo always valuable those who worked their way into his heart, and to think that it is misplaced, that they are the enemy.
That would destroy his faith in them, and likely change his own outlook and desires to return home.
"Maybe Aegwynn is right, maybe we are missing something here, perhaps we should reconsider that maybe the Shinigami are his allies and friends, maybe there is more we do not see, and what he has not told us," Tervosh said, knowing that going down either path of positives or negatives would get them nowhere, they needed to know the facts and present it.
The badge was designed to restrained his power and send off information it gathers from Ichigo, that could mean almost anything, nothing nefarious. But still, who knows what it could mean.
"Maybe, but I think I should wait, I need time to think on this," Jaina replied, scooping up the badge and moving for her study.
She wondered how Ichigo will see this, how quickly he will go through the possible variables as to why the badge exists and why it was given to him. He may see it as nothing, believing without a doubts his friends are just as they should be, or will he see this as a sign that he was wrong, the people he thought allies may be using him and that he was never their ally.
Or would he find a different path?
Jaina did not know, and that is what worried her.
Hope you enjoyed that. Won't be another chapter for two weeks sadly, will be mostly working overtime for the next seven days straight, it sucks I know but I got no choice.
Reviews:
Reality Deviant: Glad you like it, and self-reflection is good.
Squadpunk2.0: Yeah, her methodology is flawed but she doesn't see how it is just yet, but soon enough it will all be laid bare to her.
Daio Ine: Yeah, I wanted it to go down like that for a while, even though she technically isn't all that bad she did do some questionable things. And this isn't the last of them either.
Glad you liked the Omake, will try to make up some more of them in the future, just need to think of what else to do. Maybe expand on other characters and such.
Earendil18: Yeah, but she is not as ruthless as Old Man Genocide. Also Adelina will have more moments like these in the future, that is for certain. Also Jaina will most certainly be like Ikumi, but not as mean.
Jabujabu63: I am referring to the Troll race; they are very aggressive towards outsiders for good reason. Because they technically have bad history with everyone, even other tribes. They hate nearly everything, and everyone hates them, to a degree.
Leapinglemur: Yeah, I know, but I am getting better results now, this chapter did not take me that long or much effort to pump out. Let us hope so. Also glad you like the omake, it was fun to write and was something I never got the chance to put into the actual work.
Krazyfanfiction1: Thanks
The Unsung Antihero: That is true, she is developing an Asura complex to a degree, but a messiah complex is not what she is developing. Her goals are her only concern and the reason behind this is because of certain things that the elementals do. As you will see as time goes on Codexia will express herself differently.
Black cross0: Glad you liked it, really fun doing that. That was the scene I wanted to do the most. As for the Omake it was a damn fun thing to do, had it going through my mind so much and it is great to make it. Will try to make more in the future.
Guest #1: Of course, but with who? Check out the poll on my profile and make your choice.
Luna's Meow: No, the Asauchi is designed to have a symbiotic bond with the Shinigami, while a Zanpakuto can exist without a Asauchi, they aren't able to control their powers as easy. The Asauchi is meant as a focus and guide for the power to manifest and take form. What Ichigo did was bloat his power into the form of a blade. It was an imperfect conduit of power, like using a moulded sword over a forged one. Also Ichigo's powers at the time were at odds and imbalanced because he didn't accept his other half, and truly understand what his Hollow was.
Remember how Toshiro had his Zanpakuto manifesting and his powers were leaking out uncontrollably, that is because he doesn't have a medium for that power to be controlled. The stages of release for the Zanpakuto are designed to contain and hamper the power and keep it on a leash. Otherwise it can be dangerous. Also he does need his Zanpakuto to channel his power, a real Zanpakuto or not, he needed it to actually harness his abilities. While not all Shinigami or souls require a Zanpakuto, it is often known that the Zanpakuto helps in bringing out the power within someone and controlling it. As shown with Yoruichi who at first did wield a Zanpakuto, and despite not having one now, meaning that in the beginning she needed it to attain her power.
So to answer your question Ichigo not only needs an Asauchi to harness his power properly but also understanding the means in which his powers exist. His Hollow and Quincy halves. Also the reason the mask exists is because it too is trying to form a means to form its powers and allow Ichigo to wield them. Without a Zanpakuto it looks for other means, and as you can see it is unstable.
Munga wa Vita: Glad you like it.
Umbra Venator: Thanks.
Guest #2: One of several she will receive.
Bardshark: It is, and New Zealand was awesome, I recommend you go there, in the Summer though, it is fucking cold there.
Moon Phase 12: I did not actually make the name, it is actually an OC I got from a buddy. But yeah, it was so close.
Akallas Von Aerok: Sorry, but now you got some more. It was needed sadly, to set up the events of the next arc.
Blindluck92: Yeah, her actions are often motivated by her desires but there is more guiding her than she realizes, and only when she is told exactly why she was so candid with this will she understand why she acted like this. I can tell you that when she realizes what she has done she will be shocked by it.
Glad you like the Omake, planning on some more.
Rudeus: Glad you liked the fight scenes, also I do go into the details. Yeah, currently Ichigo is in a vulnerable place being bound to human form.
Guest #3: Thank you. I do find trolls to be annoying because their logic simply is flawed and just try to get an irrational response from someone. I just throw it back in their faces. I do try my best, sometimes I get help and other times I just wing it the best I can. As for his Aspect of Death, well I can tell you what he intends to become is going to surprise you.
Apocryphax: Thank you, I felt the old version was just subpar to what I wanted, the plot and direction was poorly done and attempted. Not serious in where it went and what I wanted to do and achieve, but the rewrite I actually bunkered down and fixed that.
1: That is correct, his Blut is actually a result of the Silver. As you may be aware Quincy form a Silver clot in their hearts when they die. This clot is because of the silver in their blood, and this silver is actually what they use to make their crosses and medallions. But more than that this is partially the source of their power and manifesting it. So without it in his blood his Quincy abilities are greatly diminished. His spirit form would still possess this power but not his physical body.
2: Dying would send him to the Spirit Realm, as a Shinigami he is bound similarly as Primal Gods or Loa, their souls returning to the Spirit Realm upon death in the physical realm. Also spiritual realms are directly tied to planets, think of the afterlife, the Soul Society or the Shadow Lands as basically spiritual representations of a soul of a planet. Or an Inner World of a Planet.
3: That is true, but the main disadvantage is that the spiritual realms are greatly separated on Azeroth. Spiritual nullified areas make it harder for spirits to manifest and actually be seen and do things. If Ichigo lost his body he would technically go into a realm similar to where you go in Warcraft when you die. Unable to see anyone alive, or interact with the living. Also if he leaves his body with the badge he would also suffer the same fate, and since it is not his body he had no real way to tether himself back to it so he would be trapped unless someone resurrected him.
Yeah, the romances. It is way too early in my opinion and nothing has happened that has warranted it yet. Ichigo hasn't done anything that has overtly made someone know they can love him, but when it happens it will be known. Also I do try to make the Oc's memorable, because this world has few people that truly are memorable, and I want to make more of those people. Adelina is a major success for me, and I want to translate that into others. Also getting Ichigo into a relationship with a well known character, I tend to avoid major character unless there is something that can really bring them together. I mean I once got a guy asking for Ichigo and Sylvanas, no way that can happen, now with someone like her. Got a better chance with a Ichigo and Sui-Feng ship than that.
Also I have yet to solidify relationships yet, I have many potential character to choose from, and those who haven't come around yet. It all is about who he could end up with.
Ben 10'000: That can happen, in the next arc Zangetsu, specifically Tensa Zangetsu will appear and guide Ichigo. But after that both Hollow Zangetsu and Old Man Zangetsu will be speaking with one another, and concerned with developments. Because at the end of the arc, something bad happens.
As for the Merged Hollow form that power will not come along, but Ichigo will gain the Complete Hollow form from when he faced Ulquoirra at one point, with some cosmetic changes.
