Well we have another chapter for you this week, hope you like it. Nothing major on announcements but just a few things to remind you of.
Remember to check out the TVTropes page for this story and thank Stuporman for creating it and filling it with interesting and cool content. He is a big help and I would like to thank him for all his help and effort.
Also I would like to thank Halphas Greed for his help with editing and proofreading the chapter for me. Big help my friend.
Now read and enjoy.
Transcendence
Chapter 59: One on One Conversation
The streets were abuzz with activity, with hundreds flocking to the main plaza situated at the foot of the massive citadel of the Noble Court. Most going to procure the Draught, daily rations being handed out to all during the late afternoon as the sun became visible off the western coast of the city.
It was during these scant few hours that actual sunlight would shine upon the people, for the storm clouds above shielded all light from the sun. Only during the early morning to quarter sun up did the sun actually brighten and signal the beginning of the day. Many still bemoan the loss of the sun throughout the day, and the thundering storms that continually raged above their heads.
This was heard by three individuals that strolled down the street, hidden beneath thick robes and hoods. This trio kept to the side of the street and out of the main crowd that moved to and fro around the main Plaza. Normally it would have been suspicious for these three to be moving through the street in such a manner, luckily the gathered masses turned a blind eye to the three.
Upon their chests were the tabards of the Moonscribe house, the house of the current Leader of the Shen'dralar. Had the people been more suspicious of them however they may have noted something amiss, they carried no staves and the noticeably shortest of the group carried a large bundle upon his back. But the most damning of oddities would have been if they lingered long enough to catch onto the conversation of the two that tagged behind the leader.
"Anaesia says that you kissed her, now I don't condemn fraternization but doing so while she was unconscious is where I have to draw the line." Iyeana whispered, not even turning towards the Substitute beside her.
Sadly he didn't attempt to be as inconspicuous as the Sentinel.
"I didn't kiss her!" Ichigo hissed, turning to glare at the woman. "I gave her CPR! I restarted her heart and kept her lungs filled with air so she wouldn't get brain damage!"
He had been explaining this to her for the last half hour, ever since they departed from the hideout he had been trying to get her to let it go. But no, instead she continued to pester him as to what he did and the technique used, mostly dwelling on the fact that he had to put his mouth onto hers.
"I am very much aware of that, however she feels that you took advantage of her during the incident." Iyeana replied, that had actually forced Ichigo into silence.
Was she actually saying that he was assaulting her?
"Hey I'd never…!" Ichigo started, but a hand raised itself and halted him.
"I do not think it was meant to be taken negatively." Iyeana replied, eyes straight ahead as she made the statement as always.
"Okay, so if you know that I didn't do anything wrong and that Anaesia is just being a pain in the ass to simply to get a rise out of me. I have to ask, why is it so hard for you to accept that and just drop the issue?" Ichigo asked.
"I have accepted what you have told me, if this technique of yours is indeed a valid lifesaving tool then it should be taught to my fellow Sentinels." Iyeana responded, she kept her words low and head turned away. "I also know that you didn't intend to do anything uncouth towards her, past experience has shown that intimacy or even any amount of affection seems to make you flustered."
Ichigo growled under his breath, she acknowledge that he had a valid reason for doing what he did to save Anaesia and that he did nothing wrong. Yet in spite of that she was still making jabs at his supposed 'prudish' behavior, she did not let go of the matter at all. So the question was why she went on and on about what Anaesia said instead of just giving a clear answer.
"However, Anaesia comments that your "kiss of life" left a bad impression. She says while you saved her, you had killed her many dreams of the future as that was the first time a man had ever put his lips to her own. She feels disappointed." Iyeana responded, aggravating Ichigo further because she did not deign to even look at him.
"Are you messing with me?" Ichigo asked, glaring at the woman through the side of her head.
"Of course not." Iyeana replied, going silent for a moment before adding in. "Also she is displeased that you had laid your hands upon her chest, and given that you removed most of her leather she feels that to secure her honor you must marry her."
Ichigo sputtered indignantly, though not at the fact that Iyeana was telling him that Anaesia is demanding he marry her because of how he saved her. But the fact that Iyeana was going out of her way to screw with him and thinking she could get away with it… Honestly this is unbelievable! Her deadpan delivery nearly had him almost believe she was being sincere and relaying Anaesia's own pranks as if they were serious issues. Thinking about taking it seriously would be one the stupidest trick for him to fall for.
"At least with your marriage, it will give you a chance to make up for that poor excuse for first a kiss, and fondling her later on won't be so inappropriate." Iyeana concluded.
"I am going to get you for this." Ichigo grumbled, turning around and facing forward.
"Careful now, if you begin chasing more than one woman and you might get a reputation." Iyeana replied, there was a hint of something in her voice and it was so miniscule that Ichigo didn't pick up on it.
Forgoing giving a response that likely would be turned back upon him he grunted and finally deciding to just ignore her, turning back to face forward and watching the crowd pass. His mind getting back on task, towards the actual reason they were headed for the Highborne's seat of power.
Caelyb Greenearth, son of Mildreas Willowgrave, was their target and they needed to kidnap and deliver him back to the hideout. Easier said than done sadly, considering that he was a town crier and was being sent out by his father to try and allay the people's fears and concerns. He along with a dozen others preached in the Plaza and told the people to disregard the rumors of Mordent and his band of rebels and to accept the Nobles as just and wise rulers.
As cliché as that sounded it would seem that the people were inclined to believe it, but at the moment they were inclined to believe anything if the Draught was doing what they think it does, making them more pliable to being controlled and manipulated. That would have to be the case if these people were in such a susceptible state of mind were they could be easily led by words alone without proof.
"Both of you follow me closely, do not wander off and if you have to speak do so quietly." Their guide grumbled, turning as they made for the stairs and up to the Plaza.
Scaling the steps they found themselves in a massive circular plaza at the foot of the palace, where hundreds of people were milling about in the area and going about their business. Stalls were set up here and there, but they were scarce and few and far between to be worth any notice. Most of the people gathered around the large crystal in the center of the plaza that collected the Draught.
People flocked to it so they could receive their ration and be on their way, it was odd so many came here considering there were many other distribution pylons across the city. But it was likely they didn't only come for their rations, instead they came to listen to the criers.
"Fear has lived within our hearts for far too long, for millennia we suffered under the despotic and punishing hand of a selfish Prince who sought only power and dominion over all he gaze upon." Caelyb called out, addressing the crowd who received his words with rapt attention. "However now that Prince Tortheldrin has passed, so too has his savage regime and the tight control he maintained over our people. Yet there are many who still hold onto the fear that has taken deep roots into our souls as a legacy of his rule. For even when the stem of our terror has been cut away we tremble at the thought that another tyrant will rise up to take his place. Beginning yet just another dark reign over our people, one filled with corruption and endless hunger that would see the majority us wither and die. But listen to me now when I say that shall never come to pass again!"
The crowd seemed to be hanging off every word he said, some even cheered and cried out in acknowledgement of his words as he spoke.
"We shall no longer be ruled by a power-mad fool who seek only to hoard the magical energies that should be rightfully shared amongst all our people. The Noble Court has provided us new Draught so that we all will not starve, as unlike our previous ruler who hoarded it all for himself there shall be no favoritism. All shall be equally given their fair share, as rank and position will mean nothing when it comes to safeguarding the wellbeing our race." Caelyb continued.
Far off along the rim of the Plaza the trio continued to trek, their walk slowing as they watched from afar as the boy continued to bend the crowd to his words.
"Certainly has a way with words." Iyeana said.
"The Draught is the cause, with the people becoming more tranquil and open to suggestion they can be more easily swayed by words and rumors. It is how our messages have been able to take so easily." Their guide stated. "But if he has any information on his father and the other nobles we can use it, even if not then just removing him from the picture will weaken the Nobles and their ability to placate the people."
Ichigo glanced at their lead, he did hope that he didn't intend to assassinate the guy. Killing him because he was good at making people feel calm and not worry that something was wrong with their perfect little world, was not something he could condone. It would be a dick move in his opinion. Then again Ichigo didn't know if he could be able to convince the Highborne and Sentinels to be very merciful during these circumstances. He may have had some luck with it recently but diplomacy only goes so far in times like these.
'Let's hope it doesn't come to that.' Ichigo mused.
Mordent had said that Caelyb use to be his student and worked under him for many years, he was hoping that his kindness to the boy would ring true and he would aid them in their time of need. Also apparently he had a very poor relationship with his father, even after disowning him Mildreas still makes his abandoned son do his bidding.
Here is to hoping that Caelyb decides that taking out his dad is a good motivator for him to help.
"How do we get him?" Ichigo asked. "There are a few guards around, not to mention the crowd surrounding him."
That was putting it lightly. Around the crystal were about twenty guards and about a dozen Shen'dralar mages. If they tried to attack and take him by force they would be contending with near three dozen enemies and that is not including when reinforcements show up. Considering they were at the base of the Palace they may be contending with every warrior the Highborne had left under their control.
"We need to wait, when Mordent and the others assault the Sanctum it will draw the Guard and what remains of the Shen'dralar to it, when Caelyn moves to leave we take him." Their guide said.
So they circled the entire plaza, waiting for the guards to be drawn away when news of the attack on the Shen'dralar headquarters is revealed. Unfortunately that took longer than expected and they had already moved around the plaza twice and were now moving onto their third trip around before they noticed something.
Rushing from the palace was Maluineth, running as fast as her legs could carry her away from the monolithic structure. Following a few feet behind her was a long haired warrior, with about thirty guardsman right behind him. Their guide informed them that it was Tylarwin Stormweaver, Captain of the Guard and a member of the Court of Nobles.
The guards stationed around the pylon quickly took notice of the hasty run of their leader and comrades and moved off to reinforce them, along with several of the Shen'dralar mages. The people began to grow frantic at the scene, wondering what was transpiring, but quickly Caelyb was on them and already washing away their fears.
"He works fast." Iyeana noted, seeing that the people are already beginning to calm themselves. "Is he using magic?"
"No, it is only the Draught, while the liquid is the concentrated form of the elixir derived from the spirits it can produce fumes. Breathe those in and you likely get a calming agent similar to taking the Draught." Their guide replied, they continued to circle the plaza with him in the lead. "Likely why they decided to have the criers preach here, the fumes are much more potent."
"Be at peace and let go of your fears, how often has fear and doubt held us back from actually living as we rightly should? Those soldiers only move to secure your safety as well as ensure your freedom against those that would seek to take it away. Those such as the likes of the treacherous Mordent Evershade and manipulative Codexia Fairchild." Caelyb said aloud. "Their methods and manipulations have done nothing but divide our people. Turning brother against brother and leaving us wondering if none within our own race can be trusted. Know that you will not be punished for speaking your mind or saying what you feel is wrong. We value our people more than those who would respond to your words with swift execution."
Ichigo scowled a little as this guy continued to talk, he had heard this crap over and over again from him and it was getting old. How was it that he could say all this and be on the side of people who are destroying the world? Did anyone here know about the level of cruelty their leaders are willing to commit against the other races?
"We are running out of time." Iyeana said, knowing that if they didn't hurry they would lose their window to capture Caelyb.
She wasn't wrong, they had been circling for several minutes now and the young mage had yet to make it seem as if he was going anywhere anytime soon. People were beginning to notice them however and more than a few guards' eyes lingered as they continually circled the plaza, any minute now and their cover would be blown.
"I say we take him and run for it." Ichigo offered.
"We would not escape." Their guide said.
"You might not get far, but I can." Ichigo replied, glancing at Iyeana. "Just leave it to me, I can get him and be out of the square in less than a minute. From there I can drag his sorry ass somewhere safe and then drop him off so we can bag him."
Iyeana looked on for a moment, finally turning to face him as she considered his proposal. It was risky for him to try something like that, but she recalled how he was able to escape with Anaesia so maybe it wasn't too far of a stretch to think he could evade capture again.
"If we found somewhere secure we could teleport back to the Hideout, if we depart can you sense my location?" Iyeana asked, receiving a nod from the Substitute.
"Just get somewhere and I will find you. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go kidnap Caelyb." Ichigo replied nonchalantly.
"Are you sure you can do this?" The guide asked, he was unconvinced that Ichigo could get to the mage unnoticed and then escape.
"Funny enough this isn't the first time I had to take a hostage." Ichigo replied, recalling one other stint in a city where he was surrounded by enemies and had to kidnap someone. "Huh, Déjà vu."
With those final words he turned from the group and made a beeline for Caelyb, while Iyeana and their guide turned in the opposite direction and quickly fled the plaza. Ichigo moved through the crowd slowly, keeping quiet and his hood down. The last thing he needed was more opposition between him and his target.
"We are at a point in our history where we must make a stand, and remain strong in the face of corruption and the evils found within and beyond these walls. For ten thousand years we have hidden away from the world, afraid to walk beyond the walls of Eldre'thalas out of fear for our survival. But here we stand, alive and well, living to our hearts content and none have dared to approach the city." Caelyb asked.
Ichigo pushed through the crowd and tried to get closer, these people were really tightly packed together. He had to stop a few times to try and get people to move, yet speaking up might not be a good idea. Also it didn't help that he only came up to these guys armpits, hell even the women didn't get below six foot two. Tall ass people.
It was like a kid trying to push through a group of adults; they all looked down at him and wondered who this short ass brat was trying to barge through them. The only good it did was keeping his face from being seen beneath the hood. Although considering his stature and the way he was moving it would only be a matter of time before he draws the wrong kind of attention.
It didn't take long for that wrong kind of attention fell upon him once he thought about it. A hand fell on his shoulder and then the other pulled back his hood a second later, revealing his peachy skin and orange hair for all too see. Amongst a crowd of bluish skinned and mostly pale white haired elves it was a dead giveaway he wasn't a member of their species. He turned around to find that a guard had been the one to reveal him, the scowl and sneer on his lips showed that he was not pleased to see the substitute.
"Don't suppose you are going to let me off with a warning huh?" Ichigo asked, giving the warrior a bored yet annoyed look.
When he saw the man reaching for his sword Ichigo reacted swiftly. He kicked back and into the guy's stomach and launching the guard off his feet and laying him flat against the ground. The crowd parted around him as they realized a human was in their midst, but Ichigo paid them little attention as he had his sights set on a single person who was now looking on with the same amount of surprise as the people around him.
Narrowing his eyes he took off into a sprint, discarding the useless robes and then reaching for Zangetsu on his back. He quickly rushed the stage and leaped up easily, while drawing his Zanpakutō and flaring it with power. The bandages were torn apart as he prepared to fire off a Getsuga Tenshō, but he saw he wasn't the only one ready to attack.
The Shen'dralar mages and those knights were already on the move to intercept him, and he had to give them credit they certainly know how to quickly respond to a threat. Luckily for him they were all in one place, meaning this hit would hopefully take them out and give him an avenue for escape. He swung hard and aimed for the biggest target he could find, in this case being the pylon in which the Draught was stored.
Rupture that and who knows what might happened, although that might be construed as bad now that he thought about it. In any case it was too late as the pressurized wave already hit the crystal shell of the container, washing over it and breaking it apart. Landing he grabbed Caelyb by the collar and then quickly vanished into a burst of Shunpo, moving in the opposite direction of the pylon. That was a wise decision.
The moment his Getsuga ruptured the contents and interacted with the Draught it created a powerful chain reaction. Immediately the Draught vaporized and expanded, like a ruptured canister of pressurized air, the released liquid expanded outwards in a powerful shockwave, washing over all in the plaza and forcing everyone to fall flat on the ground unable to get up.
Ichigo stumbled out of stride and fell to the ground, dragging the Highborne mage with him and sending both rolling along the stone. Correcting his descent the Substitute halted himself before looking to the center of the plaza to find the shattered pylon oozing the draught and mist over the area.
"Huh, didn't expect that." Ichigo said aloud, truth be told he didn't know that the damn draught was combustible. Live and learn.
He shook off the surprise and decided to use the moment to his advantage, turning he found the bruised and shaken Caelyb trying to stand up. Scowling Ichigo quickly looked around and found a nearby stall that sold fruits, he noticed that they also conveniently sold nifty little woven carry bags with them. Taking the very nicely made sack he promptly put it over the Highborne's head and then unceremoniously tossed him over his shoulder and made a run for it.
"Let me go!" Caelyb yelled, his words muffled by the sack over his head.
Ichigo didn't heed his words but instead picked up speed, leaping down the stairs and rushing past the startled and surprised people along the way. He had to get to somewhere safe and then meet up with Iyeana, so getting to a rooftop would be the smart thing to do.
Turning he found the nearest door and then busted it in, startling the family inside. Ignoring them he moved on to the stairs and went up to the highest floor, he found a balcony and kicked open the door before scanning his surroundings. Below he could hear several people shouting in alarm and the heavy clattering of metal on stone as the soldiers began to converge on the house.
Disregarding it all he looked ahead to see a house one street over, a small little abode that had a flat roof and was shorter than the building he now occupied. Sad part was that to get there he had to zip in between an alley, and cover about forty meters of open air to get to it.
"This is not going to be fun." Ichigo mused, but if he can cover an eight meter gap than a forty meter one shouldn't be too bad.
Putting his foot on the railing he lifted himself up and then took a deep breath and concentrated, zoning out everything else and focusing on moving from point A to point B. With it visualized he took the step and used Shunpo, the world was a blur for a moment before he reappeared above the building and fell about ten feet to solid ground. Twisting in the air he decided to let his shoulder and armor take the hit rather than risk letting his passenger get hurt.
"You alright?" Ichigo asked.
All he got what was a likely a few curses in Thalassian, deciding to take them as an affirmative he reached out with his senses to see if he could pick up Iyeana. Within a few moments he had her, somewhere to the north-west, picking up his cargo he quickly took off to find her and their guide.
Iyeana paced in the abandoned building they had located only a few minutes ago and were waiting for Ichigo to come to them. They had their concerns about his arrival – and possible survival -, she had full confidence in his abilities but when they heard the explosion they feared the worst.
"What could have happened?" Iyeana thought, was he attacked or did he attack them?
Knowing the boy she was thinking it had to be the latter, Ichigo was anything but subtle and low-key. Escaping wouldn't be easy, even for someone as quick and lucky as him he couldn't escape with so many pursuing him. So he likely opted to do something that would keep them off his trail, since his usual methods involve blowing things apart in a spectacular and awe-inspiring fashion she shouldn't have expected anything less.
Sometimes she wished she could have more time to think of the consequences about sending him into a situation and just hoping he pulled it off. His brand of solving problems while not something she would normally condone or call tactically sound, as even common sense seemed to be something the boy was bereft of in these situations.
"Yo, I'm back." Ichigo said simply to announce himself, landing on the balcony railing before readjusting his passenger on his shoulder.
"And not alone I see, I take it that you didn't run into any trouble?" Iyeana asked, raising an eyebrow and looking at the boy critically.
"Not really, went off a lot easier than I expected." Ichigo replied, although he noticed that Iyeana narrowed her eyes a little. "Alright, I might have had to use a Getsuga to get rid of some people that spotted me."
"I know, I heard it from here." Iyeana replied, letting out a sigh before she motioned to the floor. "Drop him, we need to have a little chat before we go anywhere."
Ichigo did as instructed and dropped the Highborne crier onto the stone floor abruptly before ripping the bag off his head. The short haired mage looked around quickly, finding three people in his presence. But he narrowed in on the mage amongst the trio, narrowing his eyes he looked at the familiar face.
"Karabrel, I see that you have allied yourself with the Night Elves and Humans." Caelyb said, rising to his feet slowly. "So the rumors are true then, that Mordent brought them into the city?"
"We came of our own accord." Iyeana said, taking the lead in the interrogation. She knew that bringing him back to the hideout may be dangerous, they first needed to make sure he was at least receptive to their mission. "I think you know why we are here."
"I assume either to kill or make use of me, considering I am not dead yet means that I have something you want." Caelyb replied.
"We need to know what the Nobles are up to, along with any information that can discredit them." Iyeana said, cutting to the chase and getting a snort from the mage.
"Betray the Nobles, why would I betray them?" Caelyb asked, crossing his arms in defiance. "I preach to the public daily since Mordent began these attacks. I am reinforcing the Nobles hold over the people, what part of that shows I am willing to turn against their rule?"
Iyeana had been informed on Caelyb and his mentality, more often than not he was used as a go between for the Shen'dralar and the Nobles when they lived in Dire Maul. Apparently he had little love for the Nobles, due in no small part to his father's mistreatment and also the other elite's poor reception of him being a disowned son.
Caelyb had no love for the Elite, they treated him as an errand boy for most of his life. The only one that actually took care of him was Mordent, having taken him in and trained him in the art of Magecraft. Iyeana just hoped that it was true and that Mordent wasn't floating his own boat and making himself out to be this boy's savior.
But she also knew when someone was also prying her for information, what he had just said was not meant to be defiant. Instead it showed he was testing the waters to see if they could sweeten the deal for him, to see what they could offer.
"I think we both know that you have no loyalties to those charlatans." Iyeana replied, staring at him intently. "Your father uses you for years even after you were disowned, he and the other nobles have not given you any other choice but to obey. Like a slave you cater to their every whim while they spit on you. So tell me how much of your life has improved since Maluineth has taken over?"
Caelyb did not respond, opting to remain silent to the reply. Yet Iyeana could see the barely contained contempt in his eyes, they narrowed and burned brightly as she spoke of these events. They were true and he knew it.
"You know nothing of me Sentinel." Caelyb responded. "But I suspect I know why you are here, to exterminate the last of the Highborne that you so greatly despise."
"I only want to dispose of six." Iyeana replied. "Have you heard of what is happening beyond these walls? Of what has been triggered by the actions of your lords and lady."
Caelyb again remained quiet, this time Iyeana did not wait for him to respond.
"The Nobles are causing chaos and destruction across the Desolace, the storm is only a fraction of what is on its way to decimating the entirety of Kalimdor. Have you heard of the Elementals and their resurgence from the mountain? Have you felt the quakes? As well as sensed the disturbance from the very mountain you not too long ago raided and pillaged?" Iyeana asked, like before he gave no response to her query. Yet Iyeana noticed that he moved slightly, a hint of recognition in his posture and eyes as she spoke.
"I have been made aware, and the people also seem to believe something is amiss even without us having to say so. They even grow more suspicious when we try to say there is nothing wrong." Caelyb eventually replied, acknowledging her statement. "Is it true that the Heart of Veles is the cause? That the artefact is what kept the elementals from escaping Maraudon?"
It would seem that Caelyb knew more than he was letting on, a lot more. If that was the case than that means the Nobles likely had a good idea what was going on across the Desolace.
"It is, naturally it is why we have come here. We must retrieve the heart and get it back into the vault it was stolen from." Iyeana declared, moving forward and standing a few feet from the young Mage. "But we also must take the power away from the Nobles, Mordent wishes for this conflict to end bloodlessly as possible. If he can take away the Nobles power over the people and make them turn then they will have no choice by to surrender."
Caelyb had been made aware of many secrets of the Shen'dralar, in turn he had discovered many more of the Nobles who now lead their people. He owed only one any actual loyalty, given that she had provided him greater status and power but in turn he felt guilt over taking it. To betray the one man that had helped him in his time of need, all for the sense of belonging and prestige that he was previously denied for so long.
"They would never surrender, to relinquish power is not something they would do under any circumstance." Caelyb said, shaking his head at the foolhardy plan. "They have changed, some for the better, but I know that they will never give up what they have. Their positions is all they have left now, it is something they value over almost anything else. Even Maluineth would rather die than lose control over the Shen'dralar, she believes it is her birthright."
Iyeana expected as much, her opinion on the Highborne had not changed in the last few days and she knew that it was unlikely to change entirely. Even working with Mordent she suspected that this entire affair would just be used to his advantage, by succeeding and disposing of the other nobles he'd just become the de-facto leader of his people.
It could happen, but as Ichigo had put forward earlier they had other more pressing immediate concerns to deal with. For the moment they help Mordent and his rebels take control of the Highborne and retake the Heart of Veles, anything and everything else comes second to that.
"Then we will force them to comply, we have no other choice if they will not submit willingly. That said if we can make this end with as few lives lost as possible that is preferable." Iyeana pressed, hoping that he could have a bit of information on him that they could use. "If we can turn the people and even the Guard and Shen'dralar against them, anything to cast doubt on the Nobles would help us force them down."
Caelyb was silent again, his head low and obviously thinking on what he should do. Ichigo could tell that what he was doing now was amounting to treason, turning against the heads of state and revealing incriminating evidence? Yeah that got you a death sentence almost anywhere you went. But more than that he is turning against his own family, even if the relationship between them is bad if downright hostile it wasn't easy to simply forget the person you are turning on is still your dad.
"Alright." Caelyb said, releasing a pent up breath. "I will aid you, to end this madness once and for all."
"Good. Karabrel, take us out of here." Iyeana ordered.
Quickly the Highborne mage went to work creating a teleportation circle around them, and within a minute they were gone from sight.
Shen'dralar Hideout
Mordent smiled as he brushed a hand over the tome, Maluineth's personal Libram of spells and knowledge. This book had been in the possession of her family for generations, and holds the most intricate and ancient of spellcraft back when their people first began using the powers of the Well of Eternity.
"This is what we need, with this we can break the prisons of the Spirits and then retrieve the Heart. But to make sure all works we need the second piece of the plan." Mordent said, referring to Caelyb.
"I am sure they are on their way back, we just need to give them some time." Codexia said.
The Archmage nodded his head before he passed the tome over to Caren, entrusting her with the tome to decipher its encrypted knowledge. Apparently she had come across many of Maluineth's tomes in Dire Maul, the tomes that she had been forced to leave behind in their hasty escape from the city. While he was loathed to allow someone outside his race handle this knowledge he begrudgingly had to admit the girl was highly intelligent and resourceful.
"I will begin studying it, I will report to you when I have something." Caren said, turning and moving off to peruse through the time.
"Let us hope we can decipher more from that book than just hope to free those spirits." Mordent said, before he turned around and looked to the rest of those in his company. "But next we must prepare our forces for the coming assault, I do not think I need to tell you how this will end?"
Looking across the table to his Druid counterpart, Thal'darah, gave a grim nod. At his side were his two close advisors, Elder Sareth'na and Sentinel Mistress Geleneth. Not too far away was the High Shaman Mairne and two warriors, one was another tauren and the other a troll.
"A conflict is all but certain, while some will turn on their Noble masters there are those that will protect them in spite of their sins." Mairne said, his hands folded behind his back.
"Hence why a precision strike is needed, luring out their forces into the right location will be paramount." Geleneth said, gesturing to the map on the table. "The Plaza is a perfect place, we reveal anything we find and if it is enough we can turn the people against the Nobles. It will also allow us to lure out most of the enemy forces into the open, with our bows at the ready they will be decimated."
As good plan as any, no one doubted that. Yet in the open their own forces were just as exposed and vulnerable to the magic and arms of the enemy, but the risk was outweighed by the necessity of getting this over and done with quickly. If the Guard and Shen'dralar turn, if just half of them rebelled against the loyalists than it would work in their favor.
Based on their observations of the Shen'dralar they had nothing to worry about from the mage order, their powers were miniscule in comparison to their own. Even more favorable news, their attack on their headquarters had forced them to expend most of their magical reserves in order to fend them off. Their only issue now would be the Guard, who had a force of about one hundred and fifty warriors.
"Tylarwin keeps a tight leash on his warriors, but there are many officers under his command that may be inclined to turn on their leader if he was exposed as corrupted." Mordent said, but even then their numbers were equal and Tylarwin most certainly had no long range support from his magi.
"This is a battle that will be swift and decisive." Thal'darah said, nodding his head.
They had a plan and all they needed now was to get Caelyb here to begin learning the secrets the Highborne don't want anyone to know. On cue they heard a sudden displacement of air and a whoosh; they all knew the sound of a teleportation spell being completed. All rose from their seats and moved to the main chamber, in the middle of the room they found their final piece had been acquired.
"Caelyb, it is good to see again." Mordent greeted with a smile.
"It is good to see you as well Master Evershade." Caelyb responded in kind, clasping his arm together with the senior mages.
"I do hope that your… recruitment wasn't uncomfortable." Mordent said, stealing a glance towards the Substitute. Ichigo returned the look with a disinterested gaze before he turned and walked off, but Mordent only need to see the short grimace that passed over his pupils face to know it wasn't the case.
"Nothing but a few bruises and maybe an upset stomach, but enough of these trivialities." Caelyb said, his words coming in hard and expression turning to stone. "You need me to help you bring down the Nobility, what do you require?"
Mordent smiled before he turned and gestured to the far room, beckoning the young mage to follow them master. As he entered several others followed, Iyeana, Mairne, Codexia and Thal'darah being chief amongst those who came to listen.
Taking their seats Mordent gave a few brief words of introduction to those present, giving names to faces and reason for some being present. Once this was done, Mordent asked the most important of questions.
"What do you have on the Nobles that can help us bring them down?"
"I can give you three, Mildreas Willowgrave, Nytheas Amberthorn and Elaallaes Tideweaver. All members of the court, and every single one of them planning to seize power from the Shen'dralar and the Guard." Caelyb stated.
"Your father is the ringleader of this faction I suppose?" Mordent inquired, not sounding too surprised with this in regards to Caelyb's Father. When he received a nod from the young mage he scowled. "That man has always been scheming to gain more power, I see that hasn't changed."
"Taking power from Maluineth may be easy, especially with her hold on the order as fragile as it is. Many of the mages have already turned on her, and after today's humiliation more may jump ship." Thal'darah stated, frowning over this information and wondering if they may have delivered more enemies into the Nobles hands.
"The Guard though will be much harder to acquire, from what I know of Tylarwin he had the respect of his men and most of the Officers. Turning them would be difficult." Mordent said.
"Unless he has something to entice them." Codexia said. "Mildreas was being investigated for something remember? Caelyb, what was he being investigated for?"
It had been the whole reason they had collected the boy, because they had discovered Maluineth's and Tylarwin's investigation into the man. They had uncovered something, it was a certainty, for they never would have met with A'oraen unless it was incredibly damning.
"My father has been capturing Satyr's and draining them of their magical energies." Caelyb said.
Shock and horror went up amongst those present, that was something they never expected to hear. To drain the power from demons and harness it is incredibly dangerous and reckless; the volatile energies would warp the soul and mind of anyone ingesting the energies. Any who dabble in the arcane know the dangers and addictive nature of the Fel, along with the dangerous consequences it can bring about down the road.
"That fool, what the hell was he doing?!" Mordent growled.
"How could he get Satyr's into the city? From Sargeron of all places?" Iyeana said, with that ruin so close to Nijel's Point one would have been able to see him doing this.
"I can answer that." Caren said, stepping up and with the tome still in her hands. "Before I left for Shadowprey Village I was informed of a single man entering Sargeron, from what they told me he could almost seemingly teleport at will and seem to be trapping demons in a sort of ring he wore."
"The Seven League Greaves and the Seal of Sulayman, just one of the few relics he used to accomplish his task of capturing the demons." Caelyb said. "But there is more, he used the Cup of Elune to try and cleanse the Fel taint from the Draught she created from the Satyrs. From what I have heard recently it may have not worked."
Mordent wanted to scowl at the fact this man would do something so reckless and stupid, honestly how could the man think that using raw Fel energy would not cause problems? While his people had imprisoned a demon themselves the creature itself possessed a powerful inner core that stored energy. Pure Arcane energies, not the Fel tainted magic of the demons.
Mildreas was tainting their people, giving them Fel tainted Draught and trying to bring them over to his side. This may be catastrophic for the people and those tainted by his actions, but in turn it was exactly what they needed in order to turn the people against him. While their people had employed the use of a Void Terror to create Draught in Eldre'thalas, it was secret and only known to the Shen'dralar and certain individuals.
Had the people known what they were doing it would have caused chaos, but in this instance it is exactly what they need to accomplish what need be done. Hopefully.
"What of the others?"
"Both are being given the Draught created by Mildreas, but he secured their allegiances by offering the Shen'dralar and Guard to each of them." Caelyb replied. "Mildreas also offered Elaallaes Tideweaver the hand of Lellthae Willowgrave."
"Your sister." Mordent said, scowling slightly as he was only reaffirmed of the man's depraved tactics to gaining allies. "Is she alright? Was she spared of any unpleasantness?"
"Yes she was, thankfully he only presented her to him and did not press of her anything more." Caelyb replied, fist tightening as he recalled the moment when his father presented his sister to Elaallaes for inspection.
"This information is perfect, with this evidence we can turn the people against the Nobles in a heartbeat." Mordent said, smiling slightly as he thought about what they could use to turn against them. "I need you to help us spread this to the peope."
"I can do that easily enough, but I will need to give them tangible evidence to convince them. Saying something will only go so far." Caelyb replied. "We need to show people the corruption of the Nobles, Prince Tortheldrin escaped much persecution because many did not know the man or the methods he used."
"He is right, we need evidence that exposes them all without a shadow of a doubt." Mairne said.
"I might be able to help you with that." Caren said, strolling into the room while rummaging through the spellbook a little. "I recall a spell that allows one to project memories and sight through crystals. Ah, here it is."
She turned the page over to show a page filled with elven script and also a few diagrams of crystals and images of individuals. It was undecipherable to most but it seemed that Caren understood the mechanics as she rambled off on the subject.
"The spell allows someone to show specific thoughts through a medium and onto a surface that projects them into images for others to watch." Caren said, laying the book down on the table. "Using this we may be able to have it that we can show the people."
"I know of this spell, but there is an issue with the delivery method. It requires a very specific medium to store the memories and then through it project them." Caelyb said, but Caren didn't falter for a second.
"Luckily for me I have a friend that has a special little item that is designed to store memories." Caren said.
"The Enchanted Paperweight." Iyeana guessed, and received a nod from the mage.
"Correct, using that we can alter its properties and have it store Caelyb's memories and then through it we can use it to project the images to wherever we want." Caren said, giving a casual shrug as she thought up the plan.
But then it came down to projecting it somewhere, they needed to do it so that everyone saw the images they wanted them to see. Luckily for them Mordent had a theory on how they could do that.
"Tell me, these images can be projected through crystal correct?" Mordent asked.
"They were designed like that, to be used on clear glass so people could view them." Caren replied.
"Then we can use the Pylons across the city to do it." Mordent said.
Every single pylon in the city was interconnected to one another through a magical conduits, this is what allowed each one to receive the energies from the Spirits and convert it into Draught. It was also what Mordent employed to hide their base from discovery, tapping into the Pylons he was able to use its energies to teleport everyone in the Hideout to another secure location located beneath another pylon. It was how they were able to evade capture for so long and with little effort on their parts.
"Use the device on any Pylon and the information will be transmitted to the others, everyone all over the city would see it." Mordent said.
"Now all we need is that evidence to show off." Codexia said, crossing her arms and smirking.
"Can you collect it?" Iyeana asked, glancing at Caelyb.
"I can, but I will need to depart immediately. Word of my capture and disappearance will spread quickly and it is best that I gather what I can before I am found." Caelyb said.
"Come with me then, I will get you the paperweight." Caren said, gesturing to the exit and moving with him.
"Speak with Tarelvir, he can take you to a nearby Pylon when you depart." Mordent called out, before he rose from his seat and skulked around the table.
"Looks like our plans are in motion, I am actually glad that things are progressing so fast." Iyeana said. "Considering what is happening here is minor compared to the chaos outside the walls that is understandable."
Mordent stopped in front of the Tome of Maluineth, examining the spell on the page for a moment before closing the book. He let out a sigh and closed his eyes, he understood the situation very well. What was coming for them was something that would threaten not only his people but the whole of Azeroth, and once again it was a threat brought about through the actions of his people.
His people have long been regarded as evil due the actions of their former Queen, who in her vainglory attempted to destroy the world and the majority of her people all for her own desires. Mordent did not want his people to be remembered like that, to be known in history only as the monsters whose very existence caused chaos and calamity wherever they went.
He hoped that by aiding the Sentinels here and now that he could at least save his race from extinction, but even he knew that the chances of surviving after this catastrophe was over were slim to none. The Highborne had a reputation, one that was paved in misery and blood that couldn't be washed away with time.
"You alright?" Codexia asked, noticing the Archmage's thousand yard stare as he loomed over the tome.
"No, I need to confirm something." Mordent replied, turning and moving for the door. He had to ask someone something important, see if the promise he made to him back then still rung true.
Exiting the room his eyes quickly found the one he was looking for, handing off a small object to Caelyb and offering a few words too him. With him in sight Mordent wanted to know that by the end of this takeover that he would be saving his people from extinction, not trading one executioner for another.
"This is it." Ichigo said, handing over the paperweight to the mage. "Just hold onto it and you will alright, it does all the work for you."
"Understood." Caelyb replied, turning and nodding to Tarelvir.
"Good luck." Ichigo said, giving a nod towards the departing Mage. "Hope this works, we got a lot riding on him getting that evidence and then getting back here."
"I agree, he and Mordent were barely talking to one another for five minutes and he is sending him out on a crucial mission like this?" Caren said, turning to Ichigo and frowning in worry. "I don't like it, we barely know if we can trust this man. Codexia said that he tricked her into going to Maraudon, and even Marta mentioned having spoken with him on occasion."
"So you think he is going to double-cross us?" Ichigo asked.
"Power is dangerous, be it the arcane or prestige among your peers. Caelyb had neither for most of his life, but with Maluineth he had been given rank, and even if his father is less than supportive the man may have given his son the Draught." Caren said, to her it was a legitimate concern.
Who knows where Caelyb and his allegiances lie, they had barely said a few words with him and yet he was already someone that they had been forced to place more trust and faith in than anyone else. Ichigo could understand that, barely knowing anyone and trusting them not to do anything detrimental was not easy to do. If things were different he would have questioned it, but right now they had to take risks in order to actually make sure they can end this quickly.
"We have to risk it, the sooner we get the Heart back mean the sooner we can stop the Elementals." Ichigo replied. "We handle things as they happen, we worry about the thousand things that might happen and all we do is waste time. So let's worry about Caelyb when it comes full circle alright?"
"You have become oddly wise in these last few days, from what I know of you that is something of an oddity." Caren said, raising an eyebrow at the substitute.
"Call it what you want, you know that I am right." Ichigo replied.
"I cannot deny you that, but I just hope us coming here actually hastens a resolution rather than prolongs this civil war." Caren said, and Ichigo had to nod towards that logic.
Then something occurred to him, he had been putting it off for a little while now but he had been meaning to ask Caren something. He never did get to know why she was able to find Shadowprey Village or how she even knew when to come.
"Hey, how did you know…?" Ichigo started, before someone came up and called him out.
"Ichigo." Mordent rumbled, moving onto Ichigo quickly and taking the Substitute by surprise with his quick stride and the grim frown he was sporting.
Once Mordent was in front of the substitute there was a brief silence between the two, while Ichigo waited to see what was about to happen the Archmage seemed to be searching for something. The way his eyes were glaring into the substitutes almost spoke as if he wanted to see something, what that was Ichigo had no idea.
"So… can I help you?" Ichigo asked, raising an eyebrow at the Highborne's odd behavior.
"I have a question, one pertaining to what you said to me back in Nijel's Point." Mordent replied, his glare actually seemed to grow more intense. "You said to me that if I wanted to save my people that I should help you. That allowing me to come back here to change our people for the better and to fix our mistakes, so that we can redeem ourselves in the eyes of those seeking to destroy us."
"Yeah, that sounds like me." Ichigo replied, giving the man a deadpan look. He really didn't say it like that, mostly he said was that if he goes back he can try to save his people.
"But I want to know if what you say is true, that those words were not just honey to my ears so I would listen to your proposal." Mordent said. "This campaign is nearly at an end and by tomorrow morn this city will be under my control, its people's safety and survival will become my greatest concern. So I must know now, if I am to save them will they be safe from you and your allies?"
His next words would determine if this boy and the Sentinels would stay true to their word.
"Yep." Ichigo replied, giving a casual shrug of the shoulders. Mordent appeared nonplussed by the gesture and simple reply.
"That is it? No grand speech or even an explanation?" Mordent asked.
"I ain't going to get poetic each time just for the hell of it, you wanted to know if we were going to hurt you and your people when this was over and I say we aren't." Ichigo replied, his brazen and brash self-coming to the forefront of the conversation. "Unless your one of those guys that likes it when people ramble on and turn a yes or no answer into a damn essay."
"Clarification would help." Mordent replied, features straightening as his eyes bored down on the Substitute.
Ichigo let out an annoyed sigh, he couldn't believe that he had to go on a damn rant to get this guy to understand. Seems like he's just giving speeches these days.
"Because your people aren't to blame for what happened, I know that and everyone else here does. If history has taught us anything it isn't a nation or entire race of people that define themselves in the eyes of others, sometimes it is just one person that does it for us." Ichigo replied. "Be it good or bad when someone of great power does something they are recognized for it, and by extension so too are the people they rule."
Mordent said nothing, keeping his eyes on the boy and watching him closely. But all around the rest of those present watched and observed, listening and hanging off the words of someone that seemed to have united multiple factions together. Many wanted to hear what his answer was for the question proposed to him, and to see if he could shed some light or even wisdom onto the millennium old Archmage.
"You wouldn't believe how quick people are to judge a race based on their leaders or those that represent them or even damn stereotypes that they are labelled. Most get the idea that if this is how one of them acts than the rest are no different. And while Kings, Presidents, and Emperors are remembered throughout history, it is their actions that are remembered more than the people they rule." Ichigo responded, trying to recall some of his own world's history to use in this context.
"If genocide, greed, and xenophobia is the legacy that your people left behind then you have to realize that someone back a long while ago did something wrong." Ichigo said, looking at Mordent for a moment. "But that doesn't define an entire race of people, it doesn't mean that those that live under the rule of a tyrant are just as ruthless and bloodthirsty as he is. Sometimes it takes one bad leader to define an entire race, and that is the problem with everyone here."
Ichigo looked around the room, his scowl in place as he made eye contact with most of them. It was something he had found to be utterly dominant in this place, even his close friend Caren was guilty of racism.
"No one is truly above hate or prejudice, we all have an image in our heads about other races that live in this world alongside us. For some it is understandable, others are not. But deep down we are not completely defined by what others see us as, nothing is black and white or good and evil, that is why I don't look at the race but the individuals." Ichigo continued. "So do you want to know what I see when I see the Highborne? I see a lot of scared people huddling together and looking for any sense of comfort and protection that can be offered to them. Their leaders try to get the people to love them while they go about some mad scheme to make themselves more powerful and kill everyone that isn't one of them."
He then jabbed a finger in the mage's chest, emphasising the next point he made.
"They are the enemy here and when I said that you are someone that can save his people I meant what I meant was you can actually lead them better than most others. Because deep down you actually know what it is like having the worst kind of leader, you know where that led your people and what happened in Eldre'thalas a long time ago." Ichigo said, and noticed for a moment a flicker of pain passed over Mordent's face. "You are willing to let go of your ego and actually do what is necessary for the people rather than what is important for your races and your own pride."
Many stood silent as they listened and tried to process his words, some finding it hard to grasp what he was trying to get at. But those who knew him best could understand it easily, for it was a defining trait that they all attributed to him.
Iyeana knew that he was someone that never looked at someone and listened to what he was told, his ignored Shandris and her warnings of the Horde. He never let the hostilities he had been shown by others of a certain race define his view of them later, always he kept an open mind and treated others based on the individual rather than the perceptions of an entire race.
"Too answer your freaking question I am telling you that the Night Elves won't be invading the city and killing everyone here. If it comes down to it I will stop them from committing genocide, because the last thing I want is for a lot of innocent people to die." Ichigo said, looking Mordent in the eye and conveying just how serious he was about everything he said.
Mordent remained motionless for a moment and returned the stare with one of his own, they stayed like this for a full minute. Then the Archmage let out a breath, before clasping a hand on the Shinigami's shoulder and giving a nod of acceptance towards the boy.
"I thank you for your words; I can see now why you are a valued ally to the like of the Night Elves and the Horde." Mordent said. "Till now I have always doubted you, never believing that you would follow through with what you promised us. But I see I was mistaken, along with many other things that I had not realized in my long years of living."
Ichigo had little idea on what he might be referring to as with everything he had said there was no telling exactly what had struck Mordent the most. But he was certain to find out later on when this was all squared away, he hoped that it would be for the good of his people.
"While my people will likely value our isolation from the rest of the world and its inhabitants I believe one day that we will eventually be forced to join them." Mordent said. "That day I hope you are there to speak on our behalf, and that the wrongs of our kin can be forgiven for what we become in the future."
"Just call if there is a problem, I'll be there to sort it out." Ichigo replied with a shrug.
"Humph, a youthful and overconfident response that almost makes me don't believe that those words beforehand came from your mouth." Mordent said, a small smile on his face as he turned and began to walk away. "Maybe that is what is best, someone with few years in the world and one that hasn't been made biased by the perceptions of others or felt the consequences of other races. You may be the only one of your kind, someone that actually sees beyond grudges or history."
Mordent rambled on slightly from there, but his next words came out clear.
"I think it is time for my people to change."
With those final words he retreated into the meeting chamber, likely to mull over the substitutes words and prepare for the coup. Ichigo just watched him go before turning back to Caren, who gave him an arched eyebrow and an impressed nod. One that was shared by Codexia, actual awe on her face as she saw Ichigo do what she could not do herself no matter the means she employed. He had made Mordent consider and likely want to change, to actually considering changing the philosophy and dogma that the Highborne live by.
But many others looked in with varying arrays of surprise at the conversation and how it had ended, not many had expected the youth to actually make the older mage to depart on respectful terms. Considering how he entered and demanded an answer they expected some suspicion or even threats to be delivered, politics and alliances between enemies were not always so civil.
"Certainly more than he appears, it is just as you said High Shaman." Taiga Wisemane said, stroking his chin braid.
"That he is, as I said he is much more than a simple human." Mairne replied, that was no truer than when being said about the young man. Ichigo Kurosaki was a complete oddity to the world, for not only his name and the language it stems from but also the powers and exact nature of him. "What other miracles will you bring about in your time on Azeroth I wonder?"
Ichigo flopped down into the chair and kicked his feet up onto the table, three hours had passed as they had waited for Caelyb to return and they had been stuck doing nothing. Ichigo had met with Elyssa, one of Adelina's friends back in Stonetalon, and while she was nice enough she was very sly in the way she acted.
It reminded him a little of Matsumoto. Scary thought there.
He shook it off, thinking and comparing people here with those back home is not going to do him any favors. The thing he had to dwell on now was what was happening around him and in the moment, after all he would be a damn hypocrite if he started fussing over what was happening back on earth when he had no idea. So for now he had to just wait for this show to get on the road, sad to say that was not going so well.
Yet with nothing happening he was practically forced to think on the current situation, mainly all the factors that kept popping up in his head. While the Elemental Plane collision and sealing it off against was on top of the list, there were things that nagged him a little.
The Dream Bough and Zangetsu's warning, those two things came to his mind and he wondered exactly what it was that they might be dealing with here. Something was corrupting the Emerald Dream and the portal to it, but not something physically there but something that was extending is presence.
Zangetsu warned him not to pursue the thing causing it, while he would have normally listened to his advice and wisdom, this fear just didn't make sense coming from the Old Man. How could he of all people say that he should run away? It was as if he was talking to someone else, that the Old Man was just some stranger with the same face.
Yet it was worrying, the Old Man knew something about what was causing the Dream to be corrupted and the forest around the portal. But Ichigo had an idea of where the problem came from, Adelina had said that the corruption started around the same time the quakes began. That meant that whatever was doing this was coming from Maraudon, and this breach was giving it the opening it needed to do this.
'What could be that powerful?' Ichigo thought, to be able to exert that kind of power over such a distance and actually into another spiritual realm.
He knew that it wasn't passing into the Dream through the portal; the corruption was coming from the dream and spread from the portal and into reality. He had seen it and been told as such, that means this thing likely had the power to breach through barriers between spiritual dimensions and interact with it while not even being there.
'The only thing I could guess is that powerful from around here is maybe an Elemental Lord, like that Ragnaros guy.' Ichigo mused, recalling the residual spiritual energy from the Burning Steppes.
If that was what he was up against here, but an earth variety, than he could understand Zangetsu's concerns. He was practically fighting something that might be on par with Yamamoto, and Ichigo didn't feel up to facing something that powerful even with an army as his back. But the feeling was different, this wasn't spiritual or even the arcane, it was something else. It was something dark and wrong.
"Are you holding up alright?" Iyeana asked, pulling the substitute from his thoughts.
Shaking off his mental ramblings he turned to the Sentinel, taking a moment to collect himself and give a response.
"Yeah, but I am getting a little bored." Ichigo replied, and for his response he got a deadpan stare from the Sentinel commander. "What?"
"I sometimes forget that in spite of having near god-like power you are still a teenage boy who has too much energy than he knows what to do with." Iyeana replied.
"Not like there is anything else to do, I mean I have talked with a few people here. All I can think of doing to pass the time now is probably take a nap." Ichigo replied, crossing his arms and looking up at her in an annoyed fashion.
"You could always spend it with Anaesia, I am sure she…"
"Knock it off!" Ichigo grumbled, glaring at Iyeana who only smirked in response to the outburst.
"But I would say that you should get some rest, it is well past nightfall and in the early morn we will be attacking. Get some rest and keep yourself fresh, we have a big day ahead of us tomorrow." Iyeana said, turning around and leaving the Substitute to get his rest.
Ichigo actually agreed with her, so with that thought he sunk into the chair and leaned back a little. Closing his eyes he zoned out and ignored the noise around him and relaxed, slowly but surely he started to doze off. But just as he was about to slip off into a peaceful oblivion he heard something that kicked his brain back into gear.
"Caelyb is back."
Ichigo looked up and turned to the archway, finding that it was the truth. The shorthaired mage had returned, walking into the chamber and standing before everyone, his expression grim. Ichigo scowled a little, looking at the man, noticing that something felt suddenly off with the situation.
"Caelyb, good you have returned. Where is Tarelvir?" Mordent said, stepping forward and glancing past his former pupil and hoping to see one of his mages.
"I am sorry, I had to bring them here." Caelyb said, and with his words came a slew of warriors and mage from the archway.
Instantly Ichigo was on his feet and reaching for where Zangetsu was resting, everyone around him reacted in the same manner. Soon enough two dozen knights and a handful of mages occupied one half of the chamber, while the other half was occupied by Mordent and his allies.
"What have you done Caelyb?" Mordent demanded, glaring at the boy.
"Please do not fight us, we can end this without any loss of life." Caelyb asked, Mordent would have given a retort had another voice not thrown their own opinion into the pot.
"I think that you should listen to your pupil Mordent."
Stepping out from the crowd of knights came two individuals, both were immediately recognized. Maluineth Moonscribe and Tylarwin Stormweaver, both stood at the head of their band of warriors and locked eyes with Mordent.
"You have courage girl, about time you found it and decided to face me." Mordent sneered, glaring at her.
"Hard to do when you hide in the dark." Maluineth replied, her glower was venomous and her words cracked like a whip.
The warriors behind her drew their sword and raised their shields, waiting for the command to attack. Tylarwin raised his hand and kept them back for the moment, but with a single gesture that could change.
"But now that I have found you, I can see to ending this once and for all. But first, you and I will have words." Maluineth said, narrowing her eyes on Mordent.
There you have it, hope you enjoyed the chapter.
Reviews
Reality Deviant: Thanks, glad you like it.
Sin: You're welcome.
Astroga121: Yeah, Mildreas I didn't want to be some guy that is just one dimensional and being the 'bad' guy of the arc. I wanted him to have more depth but I could only go so far with him in the story sadly.
Mildreas is also not stupid, be believes that eradicating all opposition outside the city will keep them safe and prevent anyone from coming to get them. That is his belief and he won't be held back in doing what he must, he wants power and the right to rule so that he can restore what was lost to his people. By any means necessary. But yeah the man has his own faults.
Most of the Highborne 'Commoner' population did not dabble or get involved with the upper echelon because they were barred. Many live in ignorance to the politics of the Nobles and upper class, hell many didn't even know about Immol'thar and most don't even know of the spirits being used to create the Draught. But the arrogance comes from ingestion of the Arcane energies and also because of their dependence and addiction.
Makes them short sighted and prone to rash action, like addicts who haven't gotten their fix yet. Also most of the time the people stick to the strict status of their people, that the lower class serve those in a caste above them. Every single culture in the ancient world was like this and the Highborne are exactly like this. They are only questioning it now because Mordent is revealing many secrets that shouldn't be brought to light.
LeoTheSage: Good bye!
Xbox432: Yeah, that is politics for you. Kind of like a game sadly, and they like their games. Oh trust me you will see more of Elyssa in the future.
ZiggySmallz: Die like a dog, nah he is gonna get worse than that.
Selias: Ah, Adelina mentioned that the portal Ichigo was sending them through felt similar to the dream. This was during an omake. Also he killed an undead Sentinel in Dire Maul and was able to release her bound spirit.
Maybe, there are few Bleach crossovers with Warcraft and even fewer good ones.
Stuporman: No plan survives contact with the enemy, regardless of who made it up.
Of course, that is what I wanted for her. She is doing what she is doing for such shallow and unrealistic reasons. She has done so many terrible things and feels entitled to something, and instead of proving it belongs to her she stole it and tried to kill the previous owner through assassination. Also Mordent didn't betray the man but took his place, where her father defied Tortheldrin Mordent did not, and she sees it as a betrayal not only to him but her family as she feels Mordent stole the Shen'dralar from her father.
Also remember that these people's logic is nothing short of warped and messed up. A slight against them is disproportional, to them if you didn't put butter on their toast they would think that you are stealing from them. They have been starved of a drug they continually need for thousands of years and they are basically a bunch of arrogance asses. They behave like children most of the time because nothing goes their way.
Now where did you get that idea?
Black Cross0: Thanks and I will be continuing them.
A Manga thing would be interesting; a five page thing for each chapter would be interesting. I might consider it.
Leapinglemur: Glad to hear it. Also I knew that considering the situation that him having a prude moment when something serious was happening was completely wrong. It would have taken away from the scene and I wanted it to remain serious.
Prince Sheogorath: Hope I answered your questions.
BrokenLifeCycle: Don't worry, the arc is nearly over, just a few more chapters and the conclusion will be there. Well lets see. There was the Arrival Arc, the Shady Rest Arc, the Redridge Arc, Dire Maul Arc and now onto the Maraudon Arc. Five in total.
Star: I will try to pop him in somewhere.
Not all but many of them do. Most of the Elves aside from the Night Elves have a problem. Also the Highborne, Blood Elves, Nightborne all suffer from arcane addiction on some level and the Sunwell, Nightwell and Draught are just different fonts that they nurse that addiction.
Thanks, but this arc will be over very soon. Only a few more chapters to go.
