Hello, I know it has been a long time since this story has been updated. I have very little to excuse myself for not being able to write a new chapter for this story. But the thing is I am now on the path of returning to some of my best works. I am currently working on Are We Alone right now, getting a new chapter out by New Year's Eve.

But to let you all know I plan to do some editing on the previous Transcendence chapters and a complete rewrite for Are We Alone. I am actually several chapters in for the rewrite for Are We Alone and plan to rush for its complete finish soon. As for Transcendence I plan to do the editing alongside writing new chapters so do not worry about me drawing this out for too long.

That is all there is too it. So, enjoy the chapter.


Transcendence

Chapter 72: Despair Spreads

Stormwind, Mage Quarter

Their reprieve had come to an end, although not by their own choice or by the allotted time they had planned upon. No, instead they were forced to give up on their much-needed holiday to return to Theramore in all haste. A message had been sent to them, demanding their immediate return, stating it was of great importance they come back.

Adelina sighed as she walked with Ichigo and Caren up the path to the top of the mage's tower, they were to meet with Galen, he would send them back to Theramore. There was little that needed to be discussed on why they had to return, likely there had been a development in the tension between the Night Elves and Horde. It would have boiled over at some point, they were lucky that they had been able to rest for seven days in before they were called back.

It was a blessing to be given such a reprieve.

The moment they got the message they rushed back, Ichigo retrieving his armour from Bonkotsu, and making a beeline for the Mage District. Their return sadly was not well received, while Caren and herself did not mind Ichigo however showed his obvious displeasure. Made even worse as he was followed from the Dwarven District by Bonkotsu, something that fouled his mood even further.

The last few days had been hard on him, he was moody and it was difficult to speak with him without causing an argument. His nights were wracked with nightmares and he had made it a point to not discuss it with them. Often he would brush them off and then give assurances that he was dealing with it, should that fail he would get frustrated and argue with them until they backed off.

No amount of coaxing was able to get him to open up about what he was dreaming about, it was decided that they would give him time and space to work it out. Although it hurt to see him so drained, he has been so lethargic that he hasn't the energy to do anything other than drift off into short naps that usually end with him jolting awake in a cold sweat.

He is suffering, there was no denying that, but he was being so stubborn about it that he wasn't even considering seeing someone to help. Caren had said he was trying to sort out personal issues that made it difficult for him to simply seek aid, he wanted to confront this himself and conquer it himself.

'He should know that he doesn't have to be alone, we are here to help him.' Adelina thought, wondering if he trusted them to be there to help him through this.

Help sadly was something she would not be able to offer for the time being, nor was he likely to be able to ask for it. If they were being recalled to Theramore than things had taken a turn for the worst. She knew that it wasn't politics that was drawing them back, likely they were being called to help with a military operation that required Ichigo's unique set of skills. Hopefully it was something that didn't involve the Horde, Ichigo may not be inclined to get involved.

Stepping into the mage tower's uppermost chamber they found the mages milling about, teaching novice wizards and sorcerers the arcane arts and performing arcane rituals of varying importance. Galen stood before the large ring-shaped arch at the far end of the chamber, hands behind his back and his posture perfect. Although one could see the tension in his neck and the way his lips were pressed together, the senior mage was anxious.

"Good, you have returned, it is unfortunate that you will be calling your trip short, but things have declined in the Desolace." Galen said, already working on the spellwork to create a portal, he was being quite hasty with his words and didn't even offer a proper greeting. "So much in fact that I am being sent along as an agent of the Crown."

"You're coming with us?" Caren asked, surprised.

"I get sent away a lot by the court, it is to be expected really." He sounded irritated, likely because he had been given this task over someone else who would be more qualified.

"The Alliance is concerned?" Adelina asked.

"Yes, if the Horde is acquiring territory in Kalimdor than they are definitely concerned." Galen said, finishing his spellwork and ushering them all through the portal.

They instantly found themselves in the Citadel, the familiar stone walls of Jaina's stronghold greeted them. Unlike the Mage tower in Stormwind the mages and serfs here were moving around frantically, this contrasting setting was something she recognised the first time they had departed for Stormwind a week ago.

"I am glad you are here." Jaina said, strolling up to them and letting out a relieved sigh.

"How bad is it?" Ichigo asked, frown appearing on his brow and hiding some of the fatigue on his face.

"Follow me and I will explain everything." She said, turning and guiding them to the back room of her private study.

Entering they found another waiting for them, Iyeana, Shandris' second in command turned and greeted them all with a nod. Formalities ended there, no one was going to waste time with frivolous pleasantries now, not when the stability of Kalimdor was at stake.

"Now that you are here I can tell you what is going on." Iyeana said.

She spoke gravely on the situation, most of what she spoke of was already known. The alliance between the Horde and Highborne has been met with a lot of hostility from the Kaldorei. With the Horde now in control of Ethel Rothor they have a viable naval base that is within striking distance of Ferelas and Stonetalon. Along with opening up an avenue into Ashenvale and past many of the Night Elves many defences that had been set up to hold back the Horde's expansive efforts.

It has effectively created a power struggle between the Night Elves and Horde. One that if left unchecked could see to war breaking out.

"Tyrande and I have been in constant contact, she is worried about this development, many are." Jaina said.

"Didn't the Tauren say they weren't going to allow the city to become militarised?" Ichigo asked.

That was true, Adelina had heard that Baine had made several concessions to try and smooth things over with the Night Elves and Theramore. It had earned some trust but they were more worried about the Horde as a whole than Baine and a few of his people. But the act had given them time, enough to try and build a report that can settle this matter peacefully.

"The Night Elves trust their word only so far, they see the Horde rather than the Tauren, and even I have to consider the possibility and dangers that Ethel Rethor holds for the surrounding regions." Jaina replied. "A summit is to be held in a few weeks, the Night Elves want to take affirmative action against this crisis."

"You mean get ready for war?" Galen said, the mage frowned as he spoke.

"Armies are already being gathered, Sentinel forces in Ashenvale are already marching towards the Zoram Strand while General Shandris Feathermoon is preparing to march back into the Desolace to prevent the Horde from entering Ferelas." Iyeana said.

Her words made it clear that the Kaldorei Government was only waiting to unanimously vote to attack. Less of a summit and more of a war council, they were preparing for war, there was no way around it. They wanted their forces all prepared to attack, so the moment they gave the order their soldiers would march against the enemy.

"So, are we here on standby waiting for them to decide to attack?" Ichigo asked.

"No, while the summit is several weeks away there will be talks before then. Some have not given up hope of trying to negotiate and broker an agreement." Jaina replied. "We are currently trying to further these talks to prevent any breakdown in cooperation."

Adelina believed that may not be the case, if they were still willing to hold talks despite preparing for war it meant they were not giving the Horde a chance to mobilise before them. If the Horde was kept busy negotiating and stagnating on taking military action it was advantageous to the Sentinels. These talks likely would be going nowhere, at least those in charge believed it to be so, so instead they were just trying to distract the Horde until they were ready to attack.

"What does that have to do with us?" Caren asked.

"I plan to go to Teldrassil to speak with Tyrande and see if she can withhold an all-out assault." Jaina said. "The best I can hope for is that I open her mind to the opinions of others, that is where you three come in. All of you were instrumental in the events revolving around Ethel Rethor, and the Desolace, you made a lot of allies there and left an impression on many important people."

That was a surprise. They were not exactly the best when it came to negotiation, especially Ichigo, although she was not wrong that he had made an impression. She was well aware that many were impressed with his actions in Ethel Rethor.

Adelina believed she understood where Jaina was going with this, she intended to have them try and coax the many important individuals that had taken part in the campaign into siding with them. Having them speak on their behalf at the summit when the time arrives, giving them a chance to stop a war from breaking out and maybe even settling the matter entirely.

"Is Shandris going along with this plan?" Adelina asked, from what she recalled she was quite vocal about subjugating the Highborne and taking the city before the Horde took control.

In fact she had even stated herself that the three of them wouldn't get involved with the political aspects of this crisis. She was now making an effort to actually involve them in negotiating with very important members of the Cenarian Circle and Sentinels, that didn't sound right in her mind.

"She is open to the path of least bloodshed, although she cannot go against orders from Tyrande, she will follow the Priestesses commands without hesitation. This is the only chance you are being given to make a difference." Iyeana said, she had looked directly at Ichigo when she had said that.

It was strange to hear, Shandris didn't usually do anything that went against the orders she was given. She was likely given a direct order from Tyrande to prepare for an invasion from the Desolace, getting involved in the politics was likely something she wouldn't bog herself down in. So actually wanting them to get involved and giving her support sounded a little strange to her.

Adelina had a theory on why there had been a sudden shift in her priorities, just like Iyeana she looked to the most obvious culprit, Ichigo who only raised an eyebrow. Even if he brushed off his own accomplishments and reputation, he couldn't deny he had made some powerful allies, his knack for winning people over was near legendary. To convince the unwavering and pragmatic Sentinel General to go back on her previous words despite for her own misgivings proved he had influenced her decision.

"I will try to not disappoint." Ichigo muttered. "So how are we doing this?"

"While I head for Teldrassil your three will be heading for Stonetalon Peak, the people you need to convince are mostly all there." Jaina said, going over the plan and the people that they would need to cosy up to.

Adelina felt her chest tighten a little when she heard the site of the meeting, they were to go to Stonetalon Peak? Why there of all places? Would it not be more prudent to have this somewhere else? Even she knew that many of the major players in the battle for the Desolace were from Stonetalon Mountains, but a part of her did not wish to set foot in those mountains, let alone at its peak.

"Why is it that we must go there? Is it truly necessary for us to go?" Adelina asked, a part of her wished that her question was out of disbelief that they were being selected from this critical mission.

"It is, you three all had a major part to play in the events that occurred in the Desolace, more than anyone else really. You need to be there to speak with them and convince them to help us. No one else can do this but you." Jaina said.

It was as she feared then, her dread rose and threatened to crush her heart. As much as she was aware of their importance, another part of her dreaded the idea of going, the idea of forsaking everything just to avoid going back there sounded appealing. But perhaps it was better not to get involved, her presence could result in the failure of this mission.

As much as that was possible, she couldn't reveal that to anyone, if she told them they would want to know why. Letting them all know the reason for her hesitation for going back was even worse, if they found out the truth, she would lose them.

"So we are trying to sway the people to our side, gain their favour to convince Tyrande about the situation." Caren said. "Although maybe it won't be so difficult, Ichigo has his moments where he seems to be able to be charismatic and charming, although in a brutish sort of way."

Caren's little quick started a small argument between herself and Ichigo, it was one of the few interactions between them that seemed natural. But even seeing such a familiar interaction didn't drag her out of the pit of anxiety she was drowning in.

"Ichigo, I hope that the last few days had been enough for you to recover, we could use your help on this." Jaina said.

"I am not much of a negotiator as you might think, I just state my opinion and if they listen then they listen." Ichigo replied.

"It has worked out well so far, you certainly have a lot of people interested in you. From what I hear Lord Fallowmere is actually interested in meeting you and was the one suggested you come to Stonetalon Peak." Iyeana said. "It seems that those that were sent in his wake spoke highly of you."

"Don't know if that is good or bad." Ichigo remarked, his expression seeming to curdle as he made the statement and likely thinking of something unpleasant. "I will do what I can but I don't really know how to be subtle about things, I might not be able to do what you want me to."

He let out a sigh.

"What is the bad outcome if things turn for the worst at the Summit?" Ichigo asked.

"War, plain and simple. Likely it will start in the Desolace, but it will spread. Feralas, Stonetalon, Ashenvale. They will be the most effected. After that the Horde will be forced to retaliate." Jaina said.

Adelina knew that things would get worse if war started, the moment the Horde and Night Elves start fighting the entire Alliance would mobilise to aid them. It would be another Great War, one that would consume most of the known world and likely see tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousand's dead no matter how short the conflict may last.

"Then I better make sure I do this right." Ichigo muttered, his expression was hard as steel, he knew the stakes and was unwilling to let more blood be shed. "Anything I should be made aware of before we go?"

"Nothing relevant, but you will be picking up two people along the way. First you need to head to Feathermoon Stronghold and Shandris want to have a word before you go anywhere. After that it is to Nijel's Point, you will be meeting the two people you need to take with you to the Peak. The first is Quintis Jonespyre, he will be your guide up the mountain." Jaina said.

Adelina felt some relief knowing her master was going to be present, to have him by her side brought some comfort. Although she had no idea how much he could help her, there was much he did not know about her past and her time in Stonetalon, she wondered if he would remain by her side if he were to discover her families tainted legacy.

"Hey, you alright?"

Ichigo's question snapped her out of her reverie and she made a startled gasp as she looked to him, she noticed several other eyes were on her, she ignored it as best she could. Instead she quickly closed off her emotions and gave a reassuring smile, she hoped it was for the best.

"I am fine, there is nothing to concern yourself over." Adelina said, looking around the table she noticed several eyes on her still.

But Jaina thankfully changed the subject, moving back onto the second passenger they would be collecting from Nijel's Point. Someone from Ethel Rethor, a diplomat, had been selected to negotiate with the Lords and Druids of Stonetalon to try and broker a peace. A Tauren emissary would be along a few days later.

The meeting winded down from there, a few names were given as to who they would need to sway over to their side. Along with getting them in the mood to negotiate with the Highborne diplomat, if they can do that then maybe it would be possible for peace.

The meeting had ended in short order, they didn't need much instruction or coaxing to go through with the plan. Although a part of her didn't want to participate, her past on Stonetalon Peak was something she did not wish to revisit.

Although now she was trying to not focus on the upcoming trip to her former training ground. Right now, they were back in the Theramore Inn, they had departed Stormwind on the cusp of sunset and now it was midmorning on this side of the world. The sudden change in timezones had been a little jarring, but maybe a few more hours up wouldn't be so bad. At least for her, Caren had grouched on the sudden change, while Ichigo had decided to use it to his advantage.

Caren was busy with cataloguing the recent acquisitions in the new Magic Vault beneath the Citadel Tower. They had been able to acquire many of the Highborne's relics and magical devices from Ethel Rethor after the city was liberated. It was given to them as a gesture of good will, it could be argued who was responsible for giving them these weapons. Mordent had surrendered them over to Baine, who had given them to Shandris as a peace offering, and they got them because they had the means to store and study them properly. Either way she would be busy for the rest of the day cataloguing and studying these artefacts with her mentor.

Ichigo was in his room, trying to spend the rest of the day and night sleeping. Trying being the opportune word right now, if he was still struggling to sleep he most certainly would need to take every opportunity to try and get on a few winks of sleep. Hopefully he was able to get in as many hours as he could.

She was helping the Hyals, little James was practicing writing while she helped Lynn sewing some new cloths. It certainly felt relaxing to sit back and do simple little chores, focusing on the repetitive task and putting all else out of their mind.

But more than doing this little task it also made her feel a deeper personal relief, to help someone else who has gone through a very painful event in their life. To alleviate the hurt and despair that they have suffered through, to show them that they can escape and come back from it. No matter the loss, the pain, that everything can be alright in the end.

James and Lynn were recovering, after several months they were on their way to returning to their former selves. There were times when she worried that they would never recover from the torment they went through, but it gave her hope. Not just for them, to return to being the happy and cheerful family they once were, but also maybe she herself could have such happiness.

"Adelina, are you alright?" Lynn asked, pulling her from her own thoughts.

"Yes, why do you ask?" Adelina asked, giving a smile as she turned to look at Lynn.

"Because you don't look well, you seem worried about something." Lynn said, giving her a concerned look. "Is everything alright, I heard that things are becoming chaotic on the western side of the continent. Is there something you are worried about?"

Adelina didn't know how to respond to that, she had thought she was hiding her feelings quite well. Keeping them from being shown to others, but just like at the meeting she let her feelings slip through, letting someone see just how frightened she was. There was no denying it, nothing she could do to hold it in, she was afraid of going back.

"Don't worry, there is nothing to be concerned about." Adelina said, allaying Lynn's fears and giving her a reassuring smile.

She watched as Lynn calm, her expression shifting to one of contentment, although for herself she couldn't say she felt the same. What she showed now was nothing but a mask, one that she didn't know if she could hold forever.

One she knew she knew for certain, would crumble the moment she set foot on Stonetalon Peak and saw him.

A few minutes later she made a hasty retreat from the room, quickly excusing herself without much of an excuse and fleeing back to her own room. She fell onto her bed, remaining there until nightfall, she skipped both the midday meal and dinner. Her mind only able to relive the terrible years she spent on that peak, the pain she went through, and all the horrible things that she endured.

All because of a mistake, of a sin she inherited, one that she could never be forgiven for. There was no way she could escape from her past, there was nothing she could do to be free.


Nijel's Point

That had been a nightmare of a trip, three days of constant riding and they still had another day ahead of them. A part of him didn't want to dwell on it too much, right now he was dealing with too many things to keep his head straight.

One of the more pressing concerns was getting in a few actual hours of sleep, most he could get is an hour, two if he was lucky. He had spent the short time they were in Theramore having a marathon nap session where he would sleep, wake up in a cold sweat, and then try going back to sleep. Not easy, but he had felt a lot better when he had finally departed the day after they returned.

Sadly, now he was starting to relapse back into deprivation as he fought to keep his eyes open and his mind from getting muddled. Sleep would be nice, just resting at nights was not doing it for him anymore, he needed to take periodic naps just to try and get any sort of true rest now. It was the only solution he had come up with, one that sadly was taking away too much of his time. As much as he would have loved to find a better alternative than sleeping for maybe fourteen hours a day through naps alone, he wasn't given the chance.

The situation he was in was forcing him from doing any of that.

Apart from being on the back of a Gryphon all day he also had to learn about the current situation as he moved from place to place. When they landed in Thalanaar they got word that the Centair had migrated to the region on mass, causing untold havoc across Thousand Needles. It was so bad that travel through the region by foot was impossible, even the Tauren Clans were forced to remain on the mesas to keep themselves safe.

That was only the first bit of bad news, when they got to Feathermoon Stronghold they found that dozens of ships were docked there. Reinforcements from Ashenvale had sailed down, preparing for the inevitable assault on Ethel Rethor. But Shandris had told them that the Centaur that had remained in Ferelas were tearing through the region, coming into conflict with the region's powers.

The Gnoll tribes were working with the Gordunni ogres that had been expelled from Dire Maul, hold up in the Ruins of Isildien. But there was word that Camp Mojache was also under attack, the Tauren encampment to the far east nestled right smack dap in the middle of Ferelas. Reports came in that they are being aided by the Grimtotem, the black sheep of Tauren society, to repel the Centaur and other warring factions that had been displaced by their sudden exodus from the Desolace.

Things were looking bad for the Horde, as much as the Night Elves have a hold on this region it was the Horde that was taking the brunt of this beating. A part of him knew that they would argue that the reason an army would be brought here was to help them deal with the threat posed by the Centaur. He couldn't really fault them for trying, at the moment the Tauren were at risk of literally becoming an endangered species right now.

It was just one of many such things that had passed through his head since beginning their journey, and now he was forced to push it aside and not try to dwell to much. He needed rest, he was dead tired and knew that the last leg of their journey was nearly up.

"Nijel's Point seems to have gotten an upgrade." Caren mused aloud.

"Yeah, reinforcements and some actual soldiers now." Ichigo muttered aloud, noticing that the once shabby fortification had been reinforced with both walls and fresh troops.

Moving up the incline to the inn they looked around the camp, hundreds of fresh troops from Theramore and likely Ashenvale roamed the camp. Putting up defences and also preparing to move out on patrol around the ruins.

As they came to the entrance of the inn they saw the familiar face of Captain Pentigast, the balding Theramore Guardsman gave a nod in greeting. Although he stood just behind someone, a green haired woman with pale blue skin, wearing decorated Sentinel armour. Likely she was the new commanding officer of the Sentinels here, her next words all but confirmed it.

"Greetings, I am Haldrissa Woodshaper, Captain of this Sentinel Force, you must be Ichigo Kurosaki and his comrades. I have heard much about you." She said, extending a hand in greeting.

He shook it and greeted her in turn, she gestured them to follow.

"You certainly have made an impact these last few weeks, I had heard of your actions in Eldre'thalas and then in Ethel Rethor. It was quite an inspiring tale to hear, one many would think a delusion." Haldrissa said, although she said that the way that smile was plastered on her face she seemed more impressed than doubtful.

"I just helped out when things got heated." Ichigo replied, really the only major contributions he made was when he tried to mostly keep the Sentinels and Horde from killing each other. Along with also proposing an alliance or two. Military matters and with politics, honestly anything like that he had no idea about, everyone else handled those kinds of things, he just made sure everyone stayed friendly with one another.

"Not from what the General told me, along with Commander Iyeana, I would never doubt the word from Shandris Feathermoon or my former comrade in arms. Even how you brush off recognition fits with what I have heard about you." Haldrissa said. "I would not mind speaking with you in the future, to see if you would not mind learning under me, I am certain I could teach you the ways of command."

That was a strange offer, he had to raise a brow at that, he was getting asked to basically be her apprentice. Wonder what brought that about? Probably wasn't important, likely she had just heard from Shandris and Iyeana about him and thought he was cool or something. A part of him felt a little smug about that, but given how his last meeting with Shandris went he had his doubts he was on her good side right now.

"But for now, I think it best you meet with the diplomat along with Quintis, she is in the main hall speaking with Keeper Marandis." Haldrissa said, gesturing to the double doors.

"You're not joining us?" Caren asked.

"I am afraid not. Horde activity in the region has increased, I am here to prevent them from spreading into the surrounding regions." Haldrissa said, her expression turning serious for a moment, then returning to a much more chipper tone as she turned back to face him. "I wish you well, I shall see you all of tomorrow."

Ichigo watched her stroll off briskly and disappear around the corner, he found it a little weird he was getting special treatment like that. He didn't know her that well and he didn't really know why he had such a good reputation in her eyes. Sure he took part in a few events but he wasn't really in charge, he was part of the inner circle but so was Caren and Adelina, why weren't they getting the attention?

Maybe they were and he didn't notice? Or maybe they were happy to just keep on being low profile.

Either way he put that aside for now, he wanted to meet this diplomat and see who she was, maybe they can talk about how they were going to deal with Stonetalon. Opening the door, he found Keeper Marandis and Quintis speaking with someone, a familiar light purple cloak, her red hair just noticeable beneath her hood.

"Codexia." Ichigo muttered, that was a surprise.

"Ah, it is good to see you three once more, I do hope you are all well." Codexia said, smiling as she turned to them.

"Have to admit I did not expect you of all people to be the one who would negotiating the future of the Highborne." Ichigo said, strolling into the room with his arms crossed.

Codexia faltered at that, her smile becoming a bit rueful, it was obvious that her past was something she had not forgotten. Likely everyone else wasn't going to let her forget it either, because he had a good idea as to why she was here.

"Sad to say that my selection for this was based on my past performance. Given my skill at negotiations and ability to form alliances between different group, especially former enemies, I was sent to lead these negotiations." Codexia replied.

He gave her a blank look, not for a moment did he believe it, and neither did anyone else.

"So what is the real reason?" Ichigo asked.

"They don't have any hope that negotiating will work so they sent me here as a sacrificial lamb." Codexia replied, giving a sigh as she said that. "If I die then they get me out of the way, although they also think it might earn them some favour if they send me to the Night Elves."

That sounded about right. Although it might have been better if Maluineth and Tylarwin were sent instead, that would have been a lot better received. Might even be considered a legitimate sign of non-aggression between them.

"Sadly this is the outcome that is to be expected, I am not that popular with the ruling caste in Ethel Rethor. Although I do hope that if I can prevent further conflict, I can maybe earn back some favour from the Highborne." Codexia said.

"I do hope that you didn't forget the important lesson your learned from all of this." Ichigo asked, she had done some very questionable things and he was worried that if tried anything again it might lead to some very bad consequences for everyone.

Her act of saving the Highborne in Dire Maul, despite the nobility of the action, was fuelled by personal gain. Something that resulted in the entire calamity which nearly left the entire continent being turned into a wasteland. Although he was certain she had learned from her past mistake it was something you didn't want to have happen all over again. She was working under the orders of those spirits, meaning whatever they wanted her to do she would do, no matter how questionable it may be.

He had to keep an eye out then. Call him paranoid, obviously from the sleep deprivation, but he wasn't going to run the risk of another world altering event happening again. Especially when a Great War was on the verge of starting.

"You don't have to worry about anything, I am not going to make the same mistakes as before, besides everyone expects me to do something nefarious." Codexia said, a bit of self-deprivation never hurt anyone, although it seems she still felt the sting of shame. "I've learned my lesson."

Ichigo nodded, he accepted that, one could say that she might have an agenda, but another would not doubt that she felt ashamed of her past actions and the consequences. So long as she didn't get ahead of herself, he was certain she wouldn't do anything that drastic again.

"We have been discussing how best to handle the negotiations at Stonetalon Peak." Marandis said, stepping forward. "From what Codexia has been able to tell me the Highborne have been going through some rapid changes in their society."

Ichigo did recall that Mordent and Codexia had some big plans to change the way the people did things, Primalism was one of the new paths opened up to the people. That along with the draught that they provided to the populace, one that supposedly cured them of their magical addiction along with seemed to have the effect of making them more open to suggestion.

He really didn't know if he should feel concerned over their methods. They were basically drugging the people into submission, or at least complacency where they wouldn't mind a sudden change. But given how they were before he had little idea how to change them from the addicts they were before.

"I assume Primalism is the main reason?" Ichigo asked.

"That along with the fact that with the rising popularity of Mordent and the steady decline of Maluineth and Tylarwin support and authority within the city." Codexia said.

Ichigo had to guess that maybe she had been working on improving on Mordent's authority, while simultaneously ruining those two. After all they were probably the worst to be in charge, both had delusions of grandeur and had no qualms on doing something stupid just to get what they want.

The less power and authority Maluineth and Tylarwin have the better, because if they in any way get involved in this than it was definitely going to end in all out war. Those two just couldn't help themselves when they sprouted about their superiority. Too bad that the draught didn't mellow them out more, otherwise it would have likely made them more likable.

"You are making everyone hate them, aren't you?" Caren asked, although it sounded like an accusation. "I mean that is what the nobility would do."

"Right on the nose, I had to shift any negativity towards them, if the people don't like them they are likely not to listen to them. That means their philosophy and ideals won't be reflected onto the people." Codexia said. "More than that if it comes down to it we can have it that both of them can be turned over to the Night Elves, it may not be a permanent or best solution but one that can show we are willing to cooperate."

Ichigo heard about that as well, Jaina had explained to them that even the surrender of the Nobility wouldn't likely end well for them. The people would not like having their leadership, no matter how well liked or disliked, being apprehended by those who wished them harm. It could lead to the Highborne people taking drastic measure to defend themselves, and without leadership to stop them they likely would do something that would make the Night Elves act.

"The transition is going slowly, most are still resistant to the Horde's presence, along with the changes being enacted in their society. Putting aside ten thousand years of tradition is not easy, and neither is it clean." Codexia said. "I improve Mordent's image and his policies will be better received, and from there we can really start changing things. From there I can also start guiding people towards the Primalist path along with hopefully showing how much they have changed."

Ichigo had a feeling she wasn't just shifting the opinion of the masses onto Mordent.

"Why does it sound like you are trying to shift the blame away from yourself right now?" Ichigo asked, he had to ask, because he doubted that she would just be improving Mordent's image.

"If the hate is localised, it is well known that the Highborne Nobles are directly to blame for the calamity that befell the Desolace, then it helps. I am simply following your logic, make it known they were part of the problem rather than the entirety of the Highborne." Codexia said.

That made sense he supposed, although it left him wondering just how much they were going to shift the blame onto those two. But he sighed, he was overthinking this, they had this coming and he really shouldn't care about the politics or what happens to them. They did some nasty things, so whatever happens wasn't any skin off his bones.

"But the main issue with this Summit is the tension between the Horde and Alliance, most of the problems we are facing now is due to the distrust between them as well as the balance of power being broken." Codexia said.

That made sense, most of the Night Elves issues stem from their unwillingness to give the Horde a port on this side of the continent. They are worried about the Horde having a military advantage that would allow them to expand into Stonetalon and Feralas. While he could understand their worried, especially as they were expressed by Shandris, at this moment they would need the Horde to make a move just to stop the Centaur. Because the Night Elves certainly aren't doing anything about it.

"Yeah, that's what Jaina thinks as well." Ichigo said. "She is also worried about the Alliance getting involved, in fact they sent Caren's master over to observe the proceedings and see if Stormwind should provide military aid."

"That is not good. Although if it comes down to it nothing has changed, I just need to convince the Lords at Stonetalon Peak that this can be solved amicably." Codexia said. "But since you are here that should be easier, if you are being invited personally that shows the respect you have earned from them, even the new Sentinel Captain seems to be impressed. By your side I am certain that we may be able to convince them."

"Yeah, I heard the spiel." Ichigo replied. "Perhaps the best way to deal with this is to make them realise that there is a unifying threat out there."

"That might be a way, but still there are many issues we have to deal with. After all the Night Elves tend to look ahead of the situation as well, because when everything is settled with the Centaur and Ferelas there will be tension for years to come. If you want I can go over it with you, that way we can try and discuss a plan of action." Codexia said.

That might be the way to go, she was intelligent and crafty, he might need that kind of wit to sort out this mess. As much as he knew he had to do that he would rather just go to sleep for the next few hours, he was tired and didn't want to deal with the politics any longer.

With a sigh he decided to say his farewell there and promised to come back in a few hours after he had a nap. If he got a few hours in he was certain that he be able to focus on the little meeting they would have later.


There is your Christmas present, hope you like it. Just to remind you that I am back to writing this story and all the chapters that come with it. I am continuing with the editing as fast as I can, so do not worry about another long hiatus and delay, I will be posting new chapters as I work so do not worry about any long delays.