Hello everyone, here is another chapter for you all.
Nothing much to say but a thank you to Halphas Greed for beta-reading my chap and helping me with it.
Also to let you know in a week and a half I will be going on a cruise for two weeks and will be out of contact for a bit, a nice little vacation would be nice. But before then I plan to get some Omake chapters out for Transcendence and also an Are We Alone chapter as well.
Transcendence
Chapter 69: Politics, then Something Else
Ethel Rethor
"Hey, will you slow down!" Ichigo called out, rushing up towards Shandris.
Behind him Caren and Quintas followed, the latter carrying Adelina in his arms, but they were lagging behind as the Sentinels paced ahead. Shandris along with Iyeana and Shyria were beside her were moving quickly, navigating through the streets and whatever people were around them. They were heading for the exit, moving with all haste towards the exit. The reason was obvious, their recent meet with the Horde, Highborne and Primal Spirits had ended on a very bad note.
Not for everyone mind you. The Tauren had gained control of the city, the Highborne were being spared and the Primal Spirits were going to be getting more followers. All in all, it was a major win for everyone. Aside for the Sentinels, who in spite of all their sacrifices and hard fought victories seemed to be getting nothing in return.
"Listen, things look bad, but that doesn't mean it is the end of the world." Ichigo said, coming up beside Shandris so he could at least try to speak with her face to face.
"You have absolutely no idea what kind of problems this presents for us." Shandris replied, while there was tension in her posture her words were controlled.
"I think I have a good idea." Ichigo replied, letting out an irritated huff. "Just because we don't have the city doesn't meant everything is going to fall apart, we can make this work. There is peace, the city is going to become some Primalistic commune and the Highborne are taking it up over the arcane, isn't that what we wanted?"
Shandris came to a halt, turning and looking Ichigo in the eye. For a moment he was reminded of all the times he had got ahead of himself, where he said something wrong and others let him know it.
"There is no we here, this is me and my own mess to clean up." Shandris replied, straightening up she narrowed her eyes. "This delves into territories you have no idea how to deal with, political and militaristic. What happens now is no longer up to us, it is in the hands of Lady Tyrande and Fandral Staghelm."
With her piece said Shandris turned and continued to walk, leaving a perplexed Shinigami to just stand there for a moment. He shook off his surprise, he did not expect to see what he did in Shandris' eyes. She looked concerned, as if what has happened her was going to lead to consequences that might see more death than if her people had taken the city.
"You need to tell me then. Let me know what the hell we are stepping into." Ichigo said.
"I just said you are not part of this. Lady Jaina is already marching her forces through Feralas and to my stronghold, ships are waiting for them there. Get to Feathermoon Stronghold and meet up with her and go back to Theramore and stay there. What happens here is beyond your scope to handle." Shandris replied.
Ichigo couldn't believe this, she was brushing him off like that after everything and acting like he couldn't do anything now.
"Is this you talking right now? You wanted me to help you try and broker peace with the Horde, didn't we do that now? We might have lost the city but that doesn't mean much does it?" Ichigo asked. "As long as there is no fighting and all parties are satisfied that is good, what is there to worry about if everything we were worried about isn't even a concern anymore?"
"As usual you don't grasp the problem."
Ichigo was fed up, clenching his fist tightly as he grinded his teeth.
"All I see is someone that looks like their pride took a hit and doesn't want to admit she lost." Ichigo said, scowling as he tried to catch up with the retreating Sentinel.
He got her to stop again, although this time it was likely not for his benefit. She whirled around and marched right up to him, leaning forward and glaring right into his eyes. At least the worry was gone, now there was actual irritation in her gaze and it was directed right at him. This reminded him of a lot of other times when he did something to piss someone off, and then they gave him a good dressing down.
"Do you understand what happened in that temple just a few minutes ago? What kind of problems have arisen because of what those Spirits have done?" Shandris asked, giving an annoyed huff. "It seems that even when your mind isn't plagued by distractions you still fail to see the important details."
That had annoyed him more than he wanted to admit. But he held back any irritation and took it on the chin, he had already given one to Shandris so maybe he should try to cool down. While he was doing that Shandris ushered them out of the city, past the gates and guards and into the open. It was obvious that she didn't want anyone else hearing them.
When they were on the bridge, walking the kilometer length of the natural rock towards the shoreline she started talking.
"Ethel Rethor is probably the most dangerous of strategic holdings in Kalimdor right now, because it opens up a great deal of dangers for the Kaldorei. Especially true if it is in the hands of the Horde." Shandris said, her words were not hyperbole or exaggeration, she was deathly serious right now.
"Strategic holding?" Caren asked. "I suppose it would make a useful naval base, but I don't see how it could be the greatest in Kalimdor."
"Because you don't know the land." Iyeana stated.
"She is correct, there are very few places where a large navy could dock their fleet or even sail close to the shoreline." Shandris stated. "The only landing sites along the eastern shores of Kalimdor are Azshara, Durotar, the Barrens, Dustwallow Marsh, and Tanaris."
Ichigo had only the barest hint of the geographical region of most of them, he knew their basic locations but beyond that nothing else. Dustwallow Marsh was familiar enough, Theramore was off the coast of that swampy hellhole and Durotar and the Barrens were just north of that. But still that was a lot of open land so how was it that Ethel Rethor presented such naval advantages to whoever holds it?
Shandris seemed to sense the question, and was quick to answer.
"But those coasts are riddles with debris and shallow waters since the Sundering ten millennia ago, it makes landing along the coast difficult. To create a dock one must build far off the shoreline so ships can unload their cargo, or they need to excavate the region to make it easier to reach the coast. It is why the Horde uses so many Zepplins, because their ships cannot reach the coast safely without running aground or into sandbanks."
That certainly would have made things difficult, if most of the coast was inaccessible that would make their lives tricky. He now saw why Ethel Rethor could be such a valuable port, it was out on the open sea and would work well as a naval base. Ships dock next to the city and unload and from there anyone could walk across the same bridge they now traverse to get to the mainland.
But it still opened up several questions.
"You think they would bring their entire navy this way?" Ichigo asked, the real question was why they would bring a Fleet here?
Send most of your ships to this little city? On the opposite side of the continent, in waters mostly patrolled and controlled by the Night Elves. Sounds like a very bad move if you ask him, it was asking for trouble. With most of their ships on the wrong side of the continent however, how will they defend their own borders from naval attack or invasion?
"Not all their ships, but they would still bring in troops and peons, an army of both." Shandris replied.
"To protect the city?" Ichigo asked, already knowing that it was wrong.
"No, not entirely, but to begin preparations for invading Ashenvale and Feralas." Shandris replied, with utmost certainty that her bold claim was true.
Ichigo wanted to doubt her when she said that, it was an argument she had often fallen onto when it came to dealing with the Horde. They were a bunch of savage monsters that didn't care for anyone but themselves and would kill you if they so much as didn't like what you looked like.
Although previous interactions did give him a decent reason why she felt that way, he was being optimistic at the moment. But even so it sounded almost cliché for her to immediately think that the Horde is going to invade them at a moment's notice.
"How can you be so sure?" Ichigo asked, he would at least give her a chance to make an argument that made sense.
"Because both have what the Horde needs." Shandris replied.
Ichigo raised an eyebrow at the statement, what did these two places have? He had to think on it for a minute, what did these regions have that the Horde needed?
"Lumber, game and strategic importance." Caren listed off, quicker on the uptake than he was.
"Correct." Shandris replied, nodding towards Caren for providing the right answer. "Most of the Hordes controlled regions in Kalimdor have very scarce resources. There is little in way of game and natural resources to use, even Mulgore while hospitable is lacking in overabundance to be harvested."
"But Ashenvale and Feralas are mostly untouched, and would provide the Horde with massive amounts of lumber, wild game and strategic defenses for their current territories. Even allow them to expand." Shyria said, clarifying further the importance of these two neighbouring regions.
"Since they have Ethel Rethor they can now invade Feralas and exploit those resources, and have little to no resistance as they strip it bare of anything valuable." Iyeana spoke up. "The region was always out of their reach because they never had the means to get a sizable army down here or a port where they could transport the lumber back to Durotar."
"That's not the case anymore." Shandris stated. "The city the Primal Spirits gave them now opens up the Horde to actually invade these regions. Not because of hostilities but because it now gives them a chance to extract resources they need."
That was reasonable, not good by any stretch of the word, but damn near made sense on what the Horde might do. If they were fighting in Ashenvale for resources then they wouldn't think twice to try and claim resources in Feralas. But why attack Ashenvale? How could they get there from the Desolace?
"Wait. Does the path to the north of Nijel's Point lead into Ashenvale?" Ichigo asked.
"No, it leads into Stonetalon Mountains, but there is a path in the Great Oak Valley that leads directly into Ashenvale. Worse still is that pass leads right around most of the defenses set up on these mountains. They would pass right between Windshear Hold and Stonetalon Peak, both would be at risk of an attack and then Ashenvale would be next." Shandris said.
"But you would be able to beat them back, wouldn't you?" Ichigo asked.
If they had an army there they could divert their forces to attack the Horde if they made the attempt, wouldn't that be a smart move?
"Sadly, there are many factors that would prevent me from doing so, the first is being that most of our forces are dedicated towards stopping the Horde from destroying anymore of Ashenvale. The Eastern parts of the forest have been decimated by the Horde's lumber operation there. We do our best to push them back and keep them from moving further but it is difficult." Shandris replied with some despondence.
"You don't have enough warriors? Did you not want to bring an army to Eldre'thalas before we departed from it a month ago?" Caren asked, sounding shocked that Shandris would be undermined in command and movement of her own troops.
"We have actually stretched our forces thin because of sending our forces to Eldre'thalas." Iyeana said. "To protect and actually patrol the entire city requires thousands of troops, without them the city would be left hopelessly indefensible."
"That is another issue as well, if I do not have an army take up the defense of the city it will fall to the Horde." Shandris continued. "Eldre'thalas is a major investment because of its position, defensibility both as a city and for the surrounding regions."
Ichigo had to think a little on that, the city was massive that was for sure. Definitely bigger than Stormwind, and with those damn fifty foot tall walls that surrounded it he knew that holding it meant that you pretty much controlled Feralas.
"I take it that the Horde don't like you having it." Ichigo said aloud.
"No, much has been said of us holding it. The believes that we are breaching the treaty by taking Eldre'thals for ourselves and they claim we are attempting to break the treaty to start a war." Shandris responded.
Breaching the treaty? They were fighting in Ashenvale, about to fight here and now are preparing to fight in the near future. It sounds like war is already around the corner and they are worried it was going to start because the treaty was going to dissolve.
"Isn't the fighting in Ashenvale technically a breach of the treaty?" Ichigo asked.
"Ashenvale forest may be protected by the Sentinels but it is not directly controlled by us. We never settled within its borders or claimed it as our own, so when the treaties were sighed the region was never officially claimed by either faction. The Horde has several holdings in the east, and the Silverwing Sentinel Branch is trying to drive them out." Shyria responded.
"Yes, minor skirmishes between our two factions are more than likely to occur, but actual aggressive action against one another is what will break the treaty." Shandris said.
"Wouldn't they be in the wrong if they sent an army your way then?" Ichigo asked.
"Unless they think you are making an aggressive move." Caren said. "You said they have been causing fuss over Eldre'thalas, that means they think you are going to use it to invade them."
"Correct." Shandris replied simply. "Eldre'thalas provides any who control it the means to strike against the majority of the Tauren tribes in central Kalimdor, to the east with the Lower Wilds of Feralas and Thousand Needles, and to the north east over the mountain and into Mulgore."
"That entire argument hinges on you actually wanting to attack the Tauren." Ichigo said, not seeing the logic in anything that was being said to him.
"They don't think like that; the orcs see an enemy with an advantage and they don't like it. Like an animal they lash out at something they see as a threat, even if it is not. I need an army in that city to protect it." Shandris replied. "With the Great Oak Valley having only one Holding to protect it there is no way for them to stop a sizable army from breaching through."
"Does the Horde know about the path though?" Caren asked.
"Not the Horde, but the Tauren would." Quintas spoke up, frowning as he adjusted his hold on the unconscious Adelina. "Stonetalon Peak is often frequented by Tauren Druids looking for training and an audience in Moonglade. They would be aware of such things, for there are many other paths that intersect with that one, and likely they would tell the orcs of the pass should it be brought up."
That answers that, so with the Horde taking the city they now have means and motive to attack. He couldn't believe this, had they solved one crisis to create another? Again, it shocked him with how foolish everyone could be, how they quickly go onto preparing for the next inevitable fight.
"And with all opposition out of the way they will have no trouble reaching the pass and getting through it, after that it is nearly clear sailing into Ashenvale." Shandris said. "That is if they don't veer off and attack Stonetalon Peak or Windshear Hold, because in either case we wouldn't have the forces there to stop them."
They had just reached the end of the bridge when Shandris paced towards her Nightsaber and mounted it. Shyria and Iyeana followed suite, once they were all saddled up Shandris turned towards them to speak one last time.
"I need to get to Lord Farrowmere and tell him what has happened, hopefully we can reinforce Stonetalon from any future incursions." Shandris said.
"What about us?" Ichigo asked. "I know you said we couldn't do anything but there has to be something we can do."
Shandris remained quiet for a moment, thinking on something before giving a nod.
"Get to Feathermoon Stronghold, alert Jaina to these developments and see what can be done. Perhaps she can journey to Darnassus to speak with Lady Tyrande, hopefully both can find out how to settle this." Shandris replied. "Good luck to you."
With that final farewell Shandris turned her mound around and took off, back towards her army in the distance. Ichigo stood there with Caren and Quintus, the latter holding an unconscious Adelina in his arms.
Things have officially gotten worse for them. The tension that is likely to come from this was going to get a whole lot worse, not that it surprised him really. It seemed that every time they got involved in some massive catastrophe another is only around the corner, and usually builds off the strength of the previous one.
"How bad are things going to get from here on out?" Ichigo asked, looking back at Caren and Quintus.
"Very. Ethel Rethor will become to the Shamans what Nighthaven is to the Druids, a place of welcome for all who take up the path." Quintus said. "While Druids were invited, I am doubtful we will be given much welcome by the Horde or the Tauren. No small thanks to Staghelm and his xenophobic ways."
"Likely the Horde will use that to their advantage to secure the city, if only Shamans join that means the Horde are the only ones who can come to this city." Caren said.
"I will need to return to Stonetalon Peak, alert the Elders there and see about preparing them for what may be coming in the following weeks." Quintus said.
He stepped forward and pushed Adelina onto Ichigo, the substitute taking her in his arms and adjusting his hold to keep her from falling. Looking back to Quintus he let out a sigh, looks like they were back to the waiting game it seemed. Holding up back at Theramore until something else happened.
"Take care of her." Quintus said, before he turned and too much surprise turned into a large hawk and flew into the sky.
He flew up and headed north, directly towards the mountainous peaks, likely to its highest point where Stonetalon Peak rested. Now it was just the three of them.
"This is not how I thought things were going to end." Ichigo said.
"That is life for you, it doesn't get simpler it only gets harder." Caren said, although there was nothing in her tone that showed she was trying to be funny. "We should see about getting back to Jaina. Marta is still docked on near the edge of the city, maybe she can give us a ride back to Feathermoon Stronghold."
Ichigo gave a grunt before he turned and followed Caren back towards the city, hoping to catch a ride back to their home. Throughout it all he had to think about what had come of this, of all the bloodshed, chaos and turmoil that remained he had to wonder if it could have been any better.
"I really thought things were going to be different." Ichigo said once more, actually tired of thinking of this anymore.
"I know, I did as well." Caren replied. "Let's just hope Jaina can figure something out, war is certainly not what the Alliance needs right now."
Temple of Thetis
The chamber was silent once more, no noise or murmuring voices to disturb the tranquility of it. But now actual light bled through the large canopy that burst through the roof of the temple's roof, it was a welcome change that made the damp and bleak room feel more inviting.
But still dark thoughts hid any luminance, be it rays of light or actual light thoughts. Much was still happening beyond these walls and they were caught trying to prevent greater calamity from befalling all. So many plans have been put into place and while those that ensured the protection and stability of the Desolace have been brought to fruition more were still waiting to be completed.
Truthfully though they were off to a perfect start, events have played out exactly how they wished them to and the results were better than expected.
"We have done well, we have secured ourselves here and we are now massing." Druantia spoke up.
"Yes, everything is proceeding as it should. Although, you have been taking risks, very dangerous risks." Erebus spoke up, turning his white orbs upon her and glaring accusingly. "You were never one for caution, but even I feared that you would bring us all to ruins."
Druantia knew what the Spirit of Decay spoke of, but deep down she needed to see if they could make a difference. One that was noticeable.
"You should have killed him." Erebus said.
"No." Thetis barked in reply, her words sharper than before as she came to the Spirit of Life's defense. "Her visions and plans for the future are what has allowed us to prepare for the return of Theradras and for this Elemental Invasion. Had it not been for her and all she had done we would never have succeeded."
"Still, you risked too much. All for the boy." Erebus growled.
"That boy is the only reason Codexia succeeded, why you succeeded in reawakening me." Druantia responded. "But in the end, it would not have mattered, as we would still have succeeded with or without his interference."
"But not with these same results." Veles replied.
That was a cold hard fact, for even Druantia could not have foreseen such a peaceful resolution to this war and the events that unfolded in the Desolace. Things were meant to be a whole lot worse, and there was meant to be a lot more bodies and corpses on the ground than not.
"It gives me hope that our future will be just as kind, that in spite of all the dark visions I see that we can bring about a future brighter than anything I pray that comes to pass." Druantia said, sincere in her desire to hope against fate that they could do better than what they were planning.
There was an enemy out there that were now massing their forces and preparing their return. Maraudon was nothing more than a scheme to weaken their enemies and distract them from their real plans. Theradras was a pawn to be sent towards the Tauren and Night Elves, the only forces present that could rally against the enemy to come.
Druantia knew what was coming and had to prepare for it.
They needed to consolidate their hold on Kalimdor and spread their influence so that they could fight back against this rising army of darkness. They needed an army, and they had on in the making.
"We will find a way, what was achieved now was beyond what we thought possible. Even with all our careful planning and consideration we knew what we have no could have ever been a result." Thetis said.
"But I feel it is not enough." Druantia replied.
"Do not go changing things now, results are important, but if you alter the method than we get results we did not expect. We were lucky that with the boy's interference things did not turn out worse." Erebus replied.
Druantia wanted to argue, but chose not to. Erebus was quite fickle with how things should proceed, and deviations and alterations always made him concerned. But these alterations have truly improved upon their original plans for when this elemental unrest began.
"Truthfully the boy has given us more work to handle. Which will cost us time." Erebus relayed. "Our original plans were good because we didn't need to worry about the delicacies of handling the people."
Druantia was well aware of that, things had changed from being a simple integration and occupation to having major political implications that might hinder their plans. The Tauren and Night Elves would be at odds with one another because of this, in no small part to the Tauren's allegiance with the orcs.
"Our plans were simple." Erebus said. "The Tauren were never meant to come here, not in force until after we quelled the elementals ourselves. But the boy brought them earlier, having convinced the Shaman and Druid to call the many tribes to gather them here. Their presence helped the Sentinels, it allowed them to actually survive."
Druantia knew all of this, she had relayed it all to Thetis and Erebus when they first arrived here. So many things were meant to go on schedule.
They knew that Highborne would search the depths of Maraudon looking for something, the Heart of Veles. That they would seek out and kill Mordent and his routine to take it, returning to Ethel Rethor with the Heart which they would use to empower the Obelisk of Elune.
During this time the Elementals from Maraudon would spill out of the mountain and ravage the land, the Sentinels would put their entire force together to try and quell it. They would never succeed, all would die trying to prevent the Elementals from leaving the Desolace. But the Night Elves would buy time, enough so that another plan could be enacted that would destroy the Elementals.
The Highborne would enact this plans, using the Obelisk of Elune to eradicate all life in the Desolace. Wiping out everything, Elemental and mortal alike, with the collective energies of all four Primal Spirits. Druantia and her kin would have been taken and absorbed through the obelisk that would spread across the entire region.
But there was a plan, they would survive and be reborn.
"Everything changed when Ichigo came along." Druantia said aloud.
"He changed everything." Erebus stated. "That makes him dangerous. And yet you attempt to use him for your half thought-out schemes."
How could she not, he had done something that she could not have thought possible.
Her intent was to sacrifice the Sentinels and their army to hold back the Elementals long enough for the Highborne to do what they would. Their action to wipe out all life in the Desolace would have worked, but that power they expelled from the storm would have been harvested by the Great Trees planted across the Desolace by Codexia. Within each a seed would bloom that would allow all of them to be reborn into the world, with a good deal of their power returned.
From there they would face Theradras, defeat her and return to Ethel Rethor.
Where in light of Mildreas' treasonous actions, would have resulted in civil war. Maluineth and Tylarwin would have been fighting Mildreas for days before the Primal Spirits return. But by then the fighting would have ended, for neither Mildreas nor Maluineth would win.
The people would have ousted them both. The Shen'dralar, Guard and Mildreas' supporters so drained of magical strength and manpower would be overwhelmed by the civilian populace. Only Mildreas would remain, an easy enemy to overcome for them, and all that would remain would be the Highborne people who had none to serve or be ruled over. Their minds clear and bodies freed of their addiction to magic, looking for guidance.
Guidance the Primal Spirits would give.
So, when the Tauren come, they would find a people waiting for them with open arms and eager to be taught further on the ways of the spirits. That had been the plan, from the beginning, back all the way to when Druantia had first been awakened by Erebus. She had seen it, experienced it and knew it was for the best. Even if she was still not fully awakened she knew it was a path that needed to be taken.
"I used him because he made it better, he created an outcome that none of us could have achieved even if we fought for it." Druantia replied.
Where the Tauren were meant to arrive after the Breach they arrived shortly before.
Where the Obelisk was meant to wipe out life in the Desolace it was stopped, its power turned towards wiping out only the Elementals in the region.
Where the Sentinels were meant to die fighting, they survived with the support of the Tauren tribes, Theramore Guard and the Druids of Stonetalon Peak.
Theradras, who was meant to be faced by the four of them, was contended with by only one and defeated. Defeated, by the same individual that had changed everything and led to all these alterations that saw to an outcome that was for the most part better.
"If we fought for a different outcome we would have met resistance." Erebus said.
That was also true, when attempts to see futures where they tried to change events they were met with heavy resistance. If they tried to stop the Highborne from entering Maraudon someone would enter the mountain and remove the Heart and take it beyond their reach. If they tried to avoid capture to the Highborne they would be unable to contain the elemental unrest or contend with Theradras when the time came.
Every time they tried to come up with a new solution they met failure or defeat, this was the only outcome were they could succeed. The only one they thought would work, and be best for everyone, until he came along.
"You cannot deny that in the end, despite the political and racial tensions, events have turned out in our favor." Thetis offered.
"Only because you deviated, you went against the plan and changed things." Erebus accused, looking towards Druantia.
"Adapt, that is what all living things must do, and am I not the patron of life?" Druantia quipped in return.
"You know what I mean."
"Because he changed what we couldn't." Druantia said again. "We would have had to sink the entire Desolace in order to destroy the facility beneath it, and then still contend with Theradras. Thousands more would be dead, Sentinel, Tauren and other races. He changed fate, he brought together different factions towards a single goal and was instrumental in guiding them towards a common enemy. He even altered the fate of an individual before me, a fate that I saw that was only of despair and loneliness."
Erebus was silent for a moment, almost conceding her point.
"So that was why you did it, why you asked Adelina to help. You wanted to see. Never did you believe she could grow the Great Tree." Erebus said.
"I knew she could grow the Great Tree, but she needed the strength and will to do it. Something she did not have, not until he came up to her and gave her that strength." Druantia replied.
"His heart is strong, even when I sensed it tremble in the presence of the Old God he did not falter, he remained determined. Even now, when his mind and heart are clouded, he still stands firm." Veles stated. "If he can give his powers onto the tree, then why not can he give his indomitable spirit onto those that need it?"
"Another reason why I feel he should be brought into the fold. If he can bring together people so divided and hostile than think of the possibilities if he can unite them behind us. We all know that the Night Elves will not allow the Tauren to remain in control of the city if they think them a threat." Druantia said. "But perhaps we can use him, to broker a peace, at least for a time. That power is the most useful one he has."
"I would have thought his abilities would be more useful, especially with how you are using the Great Trees now and his power to open a gateway to the Emerald Dream." Erebus stated.
"They are useful, it prevents us from having to collapse the Desolace and it gives us a better way to distribute power onto those who wish to take up our path." Druantia replied smoothly. "Yet it is his neutrality that will best serve us in finding a peaceful solution to these tensions."
Ichigo has proven himself able to find allies and earn respect because he does not take sides, and that has reached their ears. The Tauren respect him, from Codexia's own accounts, a great deal. More than that Mordent seems willing to trust him and was even willing to surrender into the Sentinels hands under the assurance from Ichigo that the people would be safe.
That kind of respect, especially towards an outsider and potential enemy, is rare to find. Most are too proud to admit they respect an enemy, even those that have the warrior mentality only give so much respect towards those they face. But Ichigo has gone beyond that, his words carry weight where they shouldn't, his actions giving rise to fame and prestige to groups that have no business with his decisions or those they affect.
It would be of great use to them to fix the chaos of this aftermath, one that they created. But Ichigo would be the one she felt could actually make it a reality.
"We are to blame for those tensions, we allowed our own bias to dictate our action and it has put those we favor in grave danger." Thetis stated
Druantia and Veles were to blame, for their own personal views and preferences overshadowed their own reason in choosing the right path. Even with the limited options presented before them they were still went out of their way to play favorites.
Druantia could not say for certain that Veles request to give the Tauren the city was motivated by his own personal attachment to their race. She knew for certain that she felt a deal of attachment and nostalgia when it came to the Highborne, for they were the first mortals to truly take up the Primalistic art. Their race was familiar to her and very close, even Maluineth's Grandmother was a prominent student of hers and one she would call a favored student. A fact that she knew prevented her from truly wishing to see the young Noble to be brought to justice for her actions.
The choice to save the Highborne from extinction, and bringing them to Ethel Rethor, was not fully motivated by her visions but her personal desire to protect them. Just as she suspects that Veles request to allow the Tauren to take Ethel Rethor was motivated by a similar sentimentality to their race rather than them being viable receptacles to his teachings and powers.
Now that favoritism has put the Highborne and Tauren in danger of reprisal, and in turn given rise to greater conflicts between the factions in the future.
"Your offer to the druids will do little to alleviate any tension, this goes beyond offers of power. This is more base and territorial now. The Night Elves will not let this lie." Erebus responded, likely very away of the problem they were facing. "We gave everything to the Highborne and Tauren, the Night Elves will be threatened by it. For it is power they cannot harness."
"No, only my power can help them, they can harness my power if they see its benefits. But over these coming weeks we will need to prepare, stabilize relations and begin empowering those that follow our teachings." Druantia said. "The future is uncertain, so we must do all we can to ensure that what comes is worth fighting towards. We must united, not only ourselves but all other races that will take part in this war."
"Then we must see to finding Zephyr and Sethlan, we need them to finish the Council. Then we will be powerful enough to face what is coming." Erebus stated. "Only then will our might return to its fullest. After all, when we separated look what happened, we were all imprisoned."
Druantia did not need to be reminded of that, but still finding their kin of Air and Fire was important. But they had someone working on that, she was the only one that had any idea where the two spirits could be, and they would trust her to locate them. For now, they had to prepare things here.
"Imprisoned yes, but I wonder if our enemy wanted us to be imprisoned all those millennia ago so that we could be awakened now." Druantia spoke aloud.
It was a fear they all had, for their presence in the world was never meant to be and deep down they felt wrongness about being where they were. They couldn't understand it but something deep down within their very essence spoke to them and said that they should not be upon the mortal plane nor should they even be of this world.
Something was wrong, and they would be forced to confront it soon.
Outskirts of Ethel Rethor
A small army was marching across the bridge and into Ethel Rethor, large in frame and height they walked unimpeded into the former Highborne city. The Tauren did so with a calm gait and their weapons held loosely in hand, while other had them sheathed at their sides or on their backs. Coming as conquerors they were instead being allowed within the city, greeted by the people within and led towards the Palace where the Spirits awaited.
Not how Baine expected thing to conclude.
Many of his supporters and allies had been adamant that they needed to attack and take the city, even the usually calm and placate Mairne and Hamuul did voice that they should look towards aggressive action against the Highborne. Their fears that the newest leaders would be just as dangerous as they ones previously deposed was apparent.
Baine was inclined to agree with the assessment of the Shaman and Druid when they relayed the character of some of these leaders. It had left him with little means to approach this diplomatically, and he feared that the only resort left to them was to attack and hope that they did not suffer too many casualties.
But that fear was abated by the wisdom of the Spirits and the Highborne's surrender unto the Tauren, along with the city being given custodial guardianship to his people. A shocking climax to the proceedings.
He remembered speaking with Mordent, discussing the trial and what it will mean for his people and the many that may have followed the command of their Noble leaders. Baine respected his dedication to his people, for Mordent did seem sincere in wishing to protect his race from possible harm and subjugation.
Baine reaffirmed that no harm would befall any of his people, but when Mordent inquired about their practices he was less certain. For Baine's own people have never seen the use of such dangerous magics and often distrusted its use and those who wield it. But he would see to it that through his teachings that balance, and control maintained, giving assurances that when the trial is complete, and all debts are settled that they would speak on all things and settle them.
To do so now, while blood had yet to cool and previous grievances were still fresh on the mind would only lead to delays in peace. Yet he did not voice this, instead choice to instead dismiss these questions and allay the fears with promise of a brighter future.
Baine had said that by the time the Trial begins and concludes that the people, his own and Mordent's, would likely be comrades more in name but in actual spirit. For it is not the calling and arts that are performed that define one group to another, but how they act and treat themselves and their neighbors that will truly show.
He was not certain what would come to pass, but he had faith that in no short amount of time that the Tauren and Highborne will be stalwart allies.
"It is a surprising thing, seeing such an alliance." Mairne spoke aloud, watching as hundreds of Tauren warriors march into the city.
"But even less of a surprise compared to the Sentinels leaving without a fight, I did not think they would be so adamant to let us take the city. Especially without a fight." Hamuul interjected.
Another issue that must be dealt with in time, Shandris' abrupt departure from the city was noticed. The haste she had left had worried him, he feared the loss of the city to him without any conflict may have spurned her. His hopes for maintaining good relations with the Sentinels seemed to be slipping.
Baine prayed that she would return with the message to Tyrande and let her and any others know that the Highborne will be tried for the crimes and they were permitted to attend and voice their complaints. Peace is something he wished to maintain, but unless they are receptive there is little that can be done.
A closed off heart cannot be moved by words, for it is then that they fester with hate and it becomes the only thing that makes sense to the individual.
"We will know if they have any grievances soon, but I feel that our people will not be the ones to suffer the brunt of any accusations made." Baine replied, knowing that this delves into politics and delicacies he would have wished to avoid.
It was more than likely that the Horde as a whole would be threatened if the Alliance suspects they would use the city as a port to move armies to and fro. But also expand the Warsong's Lumber operation into Feralas as well.
Something he knew was a possibility, if not a certainty to happen. While an army of Warsong coming here would be useful in helping drive out the Centaur and stabilize the region, it would definitely create tensions. The Sentinels never held any distrust to the clans in Feralas, likely due to their location far to the east and away from whatever areas were the Night Elves have taken. But with the Horde expanding, it will cause problems.
But he had time. Time to think and hopefully broker some form of peace between all the parties, and at least prevent this being used as another ploy to invade somewhere.
"It is good the transition is underway."
Baine turned and gave a deep bow to the speaker, the great spirit of the earth. Veles walked forward, his form hunched forward, using his large arms to support his wide and massive torso from collapsing under his much more stunted legs.
"With your wisdom the Highborne will be put onto the right path, I hope that the warriors know that violence shall not be tolerated within the confines of the city." Veles said, looking down at the son of the High Chieftain, jade eyes narrowing in suspicion.
"Many grumbles were uttered, but my people know better than to lash out without thought." Baine replied, but he also warned that such actions would earn the Spirits ire.
That would keep them in line, for any anger and resentment they may have a hold over them would be quenched by their respect. None would dare shed blood in Ethel Rethor while the spirits resided within and made it clear that it would be disrespectful. Yet he would not need to make sure that peace is maintained, soon enough both his people and the Highborne would be stalwart allies.
The Nobles and their courts may be fickle and rigid, the citizens on the other hand were not so. They were oddly jovial and seemed to be eager to learn, take in new experiences and expand their horizons.
"Good, but soon I will be departing back to my own Temple in the East. Where you call Mulgore is also my home." Veles said.
"It would be an honor for us to welcome you back to your home, when do you intend to depart?" Baine asked.
"As soon as you are ready, for I will speak with your father and plant another Great Tree near Thunderbluff. But also, I will ensure that your people are ready for the time when they must face the Centaur." Veles replied. "While Thetis and Druantia remain here to begin the empowerment of the Highborne I will personally oversee that the Shaman's within Mulgore and beyond are prepared."
"Of course." Baine replied, it would be a great boon to have the spirit present in Thunderbluff.
"I request to remain here, to train the Highborne." Mairne beseeched towards Veles.
"Of course, please remain, your skills would be useful for they are more akin to our arts than realized." Veles permitted, giving a long glance towards the churning pauldrons on the Tauren's shoulder that seemed to flicker as Veles made the statement. Giving a dismissing snort the Primal Spirit of Earth turned to Hamuul. "I also ask you to stay as well, for a time, Druantia requires your aid in a task best suited for you and your calling."
Hamuul seemed surprised by the request but none the less bowed to the spirit. Baine had hopes that maybe he would seek out the Druids and that maybe they could see to cooperation in fighting back the Centaur and possible restoring the Desolace to its former glory.
Baine hoped that bringing the Cenarian Circle here and promoting cooperation would help things, to remove any bad blood that still festered. The Highborne's presence would cause problems, especially their association with his people now, but he had to make the effort to negotiate peace.
Without peace, all that they would have is misery and bloodshed. The world was filled with enough of that as it was, why add to a problem?
Ethel Rethor Docks
Caren looked out over the small fleet of submarines that were docked near the edge of the city, although docked was a crude way of saying it.
Stormwind had a dock, a very extravagant one in fact that was magnificently crafted and well maintained. Paved roads along the water front with iron wood piers that extend far out into open water, that could all be seen from the high walls that surround and keep watch over the port. Even for such a busy and often well traversed part of the city it was clean, truly a pinnacle of excellence.
What she was looking at now, dock only in the barest sense of the word, only served as such in name.
A single crudely made pier extended out a few meters into the water, and connected to an exposed and open sewage tunnel that had been excavated out from beneath the street. Given the city's edge still sat several meters above the water, and was a dead drop into the lapping oceans, there was no real way down to the water.
So instead the Mercanries had dug out a section of the city, created a few stairs and ramps, and just created a ditch which they could descend down into and reach the water. It was either that or scale down the side of the plateau that the city sat upon, and she doubted anyone would be stupid enough to do that.
"So when do you leave?" Caren inquired, she had been speaking with Booth Morton.
The young man was Marta's second in command, he was professional and she admired his tact behaviour. Also since he kept himself clean shaven and seemed to also keep his hair in good order she found him well presented, shocking such a well-groomed man with some etiquette would work as a mercenary.
Although that was probably her own bias, given her family and that of other nobility the idea of a well-educated and enlightened person going off to do something mundane seemed entirely outrageous. But maybe Booth Morton was like her, wanting to escape from the drogery of upper class and not have to deal with idiots that only prattle about honor and dignity but have little of their own.
"Hoping to get out tonight, when we got word the Tauren are coming to occupy the city Marta thought it would be wise to leave." Booth said, crossing his arms as he watched the men load up the ship. "You said you need us to drop you off at Feathermoon Stronghold?"
"Yes, we are meeting up with Lady Proudmoore there." Caren replied.
"Shouldn't be a problem, we can stop by there and pick up some last minutes supplies to stock up." Booth replied. "We are heading back to the Eastern Kingdoms; this haul we got is going to go a long way for us."
Caren had only the barest idea on what they would do with all that gold, several debaucheries came to mind that she did not wish to dwell on. Although good people, some even honourable, she had her suspicions that they lived life to the fullest in every possible way. Food, drink and private company were a few things they indulged it.
"Very well, we thank you for helping us." Caren replied, curtsying before turning to walk off.
She found Ichigo nearby, sitting next to a still sleeping Adelina, he had laid her down on a stone bench and placed a blanket over her. He seemed sullen, the events of today still fresh as he tried to think about all that had gone wrong.
But truthfully she did not wish to think about it, as much as she valued decorum and actual prestige in her day to day life she dreaded politics and all that came with it. All it does is make one overly paranoid and brings out the less than desirable parts of one's character.
Ichigo falling into such a downward spiral sounded all but frightening, for all his lack of sense and pigheaded behaviour he was probably the only person she wished didn't change. While not as sophisticated as any noble gentleman to live in Stormwind Ichigo still had his wit and was intelligent in his own way. He was less interested in proper behaviour and manners, speaking with anyone and everyone he met with the same amount of respect as a plebeian would to a stranger on the street.
One of his unique brands of charm, one that at first while abrasive was actually something she found to be endearing.
Hence why it was such a fright to see him on the verge of pulling his hair out to try and figure out the intricate web that was politics. Something she dare hoped he would not be caught in, for it was not easy to escape.
"Still dwelling on the outcome of that little conference?" Caren asked.
"Nah, thinking about taking a vacation." Ichigo replied, that had been a surprise.
"You want to relax?" Caren asked, her voice slipping slightly as she conveyed her surprise.
Such a thing would often lead to a scolding, her father never liked it when she didn't speak with a more reserved and controlled tone. Often calling her loud with how she spoke, along with disrespectfully scornful in how she inflected her words. Her second eldest brother, Elerac, was more vocal though, only in conveying how boorish she was.
He had drilled it into her how to speak, and now she had to fight to stop herself from hesitating to speak and 'adjust' the way she spoke.
"Not often you do something recreational, even when you have time on your hands. In all the time I have known you there has been little to no time when you have actually sat down with me and actually talked casually. Not even with Adelina." Caren continued.
Ichigo was never one to sit idle and do nothing, even when thinking he would always be doing something while contemplating a conundrum to solve. He would say that he does things better by actually working at them, like a hammer all he knows how to do to solve a problem is smash it. Or at least do something brutish, fighting being one of his more obvious pass times.
"Been working on changing that, think it's time I actually stop running and slow down. Don't feel like fighting or getting bogged down in another mess, I just want to unwind and let all this stress go away." Ichigo replied, leaning back into his seat and staring up into the sky.
"We can do it when we get back to Theramore, maybe even visit Stormwind." Caren replied, smiling slightly.
They could visit the countryside, Elwynn would be nice and she was certain that the fresh air and peaceful woods might actually be therapeutic for them all. Who knows, maybe they could journey up to Dun Morogh via the Deeprun Tram, visit Ironforge and explore the country a little.
"Maybe." Ichigo said, before letting out a breath and smiling.
Today was full of surprises it seems, Ichigo smiling was a rare sight indeed. It was not often that he smiled, and she was certain that this was only one of three times she had seen his lips turn upwards. Always frowning, a look of irritation of his face that didn't seem to go away, it was a much better look to see him smiling than scowling.
"You have any suggestion?" Caren asked, actually feeling a little intrigued to hear what he would suggest.
"I'll think about it when we get back." Ichigo replied, relaxing into the bench and getting comfortable.
His smile never seemed to leave his face.
Reveiws:
Krazyfanfiction1: No, not like that. What the Spirits did was take that ability, they took his ability to bequeath these powers onto others. All the Primal Spirits did was copy that ability and applied it to their own powers.
Aburg76: Yeah, I know. Things are getting bad.
Leapinglemur: She isn't going to ruin anything, but she is concerned for a very good reason. Also the next expansion, shocked to see that is going to be the next Expansion, looks awesome.
Kragh50: Glad you liked the chapter.
Machcia: Ichigo getting involved with someone is likely, but who is not determined yet, there will be attraction and actual infatuation between characters but I will not reveal who or confirm it.
Astroga121: Yeah, it came to me only near the end of the arc that instead of things sorting themselves out like they should this should happen. Because lets face it, nothing ever is settled cleanly
If this chapter doesn't answer your question let me know. As for a hint, Ichigo is going to be relaxing.
Wrandrel: It was a big arc, really long and drawn out, good to finally see it finished and moving onto the next part.
That will be spoken on later, promise.
Kyo no Kitsume: Thanks for the recommendations, also what Skillet Songs do you listen to? I like 'Monster' and 'Resistance' best songs.
Reality Deviant: Glad you liked the chapter.
Okami Princess: Ichigo will become something unique to Azeroth. But what he will create there will be many different things, but I cannot reveal anything, because that would be too much of a spoiler.
TheBronzeLine: Glad you like it. Got over 9000 more words for you here.
Star: The Corruption of the Dream was hidden for thousands of years from both the Green Dragonflight and Druids, even Druantia in her weakened state wouldn't be able to sense it. As for copying powers will get into that later, it is actually more important than you know.
He could use nature magic, but he needs to train with it. But also he did get something else out of the deal and the sharing of powers.
Adelina is going to be the main focus in the next arc.
Black Cross0: I wish I could animate, would definitely do a few scenes from this story.
Xbox432: I would be as well if I lost a city, it was a great vacation spot. Adelina is a favourite of mine and I am eager to make her presence known.
Kenji Riku: Thank you.
Blindluck92: Thanks man.
Hermes Tonsils: A story is made up of more than just one character, sometimes it needs to shift focus in order for it to actually progress. Because then you have a character going into situations that develop for no apparent reason.
Spartan-140: One day.
GlaringEyes: Glad to have you back and I hope you are enjoying the story. The Caja Negacion used on Ichigo was unique, one designed specifically for the permanent punishment of Arrancar that betray Aizen. The one used by Nnoitra was given specifically to him to use on Ichigo.
Also Ulquiorra won't be appearing on Azeroth or any other Arrancar for that matter.
Night Vanguard: Cliffhangers are my bread and butter.
