Hello, sorry for the delay in the chapter. My beta was sleeping, then he got into trouble for sleeping, and basically is now in the dog house because of it. But most of all the chapter is ready, so enjoy it. Things are moving ahead now and I do not have much to report on the story.

A special shoutout to Halphas Greed for beta reading this chapter for me.


Transcendence

Chapter 74: Rising Tensions

It really shouldn't have made much of a difference in the end, that was what went through his head when he had spoken to the Keepers two days ago. As much as those guys hold a lot of sway over this place and could order almost anyone to comply, he knew deep down that it wasn't going to do much.

The Druids were so uptight and set in their ways that anyone telling them what to do was going to amount to nothing, not even a word from their higher-ups would make them listen. It was being proven right now as he had to listen to these nature loving bastards shoot down each and every one of his ideas on how to settle the issue in the Desolace peacefully. This wasn't the first time he had been shot down by the Druids, in fact he had spoken with this particular Archdruid at least three times and she still wouldn't listen.

Hell, even a warning about the possible repercussions of starting a war with the Horde didn't seem to dissuade them from wanting to get into a fight.

"This peak is right in the firing line if you go to war. Even with all your defenses do you think you can really stop them when you are already dealing with Centaur and Harpies swooping in from every direction." Ichigo said, he knew how this was going to go, and in a way, he was preempting it.

"Those animals have never been a threat to us, and never will." Archdruid Ilyrnae Darkember said, the woman had an unnatural hatred towards the Horde. Why? No idea, she hadn't elaborated on it beyond calling them derogatory names.

Hence why he did not need to ask which 'animal' she was referring to. She seemed to hate then over the Centaur and Harpies if you could believe it, oddly enough she hated the Tauren more than the orcs and trolls. Her entire argument against them was that they were savages, unclothed and ruthless just as their troll and orc allies.

"The Tauren are have done nothing but broker peace with you since this entire thing began, for the love of all that is holy would you just stop acting like an idiot and try to see the big picture?" Ichigo said, annoyed with this woman, she didn't care much about what he had to say and he was getting sick of trying to negotiate.

"I will not be insulted by some primitive mongrel, you best watch your tongue human, I have little tolerance for beings such as you." Illyrnae said, narrowing her eyes.

"Your intolerance is the thing that will get you and a lot of others killed if you don't reign it in. How is it that you cannot fathom that a war with the Horde is going to cost your race thousands of lives, tens of thousands? Haven't there been enough deaths because of what happened in the Desolace." Ichigo said.

"What happened in the Desolace is the reason war is needed, so long as the Horde and the Highborne remain at large it will only spell more harm for my people." Ilyrnae said, sounding absolutely sure about he claims. "The Highborne deserve death, as is the law, and we shall see judgement delivered for all their sins. Old and new."

Ichigo shook his head, there was no getting through to them, at the moment he had only met three people that were even close to listening to him but that didn't mean much. There were about twelve Archdruids on this peak that they had to try and sway, at the moment only a quarter could be called receptive, and that was not even completely accurate.

Most of those negotiations failed because they say that they are unwilling to compromise with the Tauren out of fear of giving them an advantage. Strangely it was fear of the Horde as a whole rather than the Tauren that was making them wary, that along with the Highborne. While some Druids looked down on the Tauren as mere beasts there were some who told him that the relations between the Tauren and Night Elves once were close.

That changed sadly, some sort of blood feud a few centuries ago had colored the two races opinion of each other the wrong way. Whatever the feud was he had not the faintest clue, but he had a good idea on that the impression lasted. Given that these elves were immortal it wasn't that much of a stretch to imagine they had long memories and had good reason to be mad.

Although. 'Sins of the Father' sort of played into this more than he cared to admit.

He can understand being mad at people for what they did, for their actions against oneself or others, but if they held onto those grudges it would only do more harm. Hell, he didn't even hold it much against Byakuya for his actions in trying to execute Rukia, there was a reason he did it and Ichigo made sure he smashed it apart just to who how stupid it was.

Sad to say he didn't think it would work here, the hate these Elves had for the Tauren was long ingrained in their memory and they didn't have an inkling of letting it go. Even the more receptive members had their limits on what they were willing to put forward to make for peace. Not that they thought it was possible anymore, not with so many vying for war.

Unwilling to meet the halfway point so everyone got their fair share they stagnated, if not outright refused to capitulate.

This was turning out to be a major disaster.

Looking across the grounds he saw a sight that annoyed him more than these arrogant asshats who couldn't put aside their pride for two seconds to think. Adelina was standing there, meek and scared as several students belittle her and make violent gestures towards her, she was unable to do anything but take it. The way her face contorted really hurt to see, like taking a cold dagger to the chest, he made a beeline for them.

Caren and Elyssa stepped forward and came to her defense, putting themselves between their friend and her tormentors. Even as Adelina tried to dissuade them from starting an altercation, something she had done on many occasions, as soon as they turn up, she tried to drag them away from the naysayers.

These things usually ended with Adelina having to take charge and get any of them away from the group, usually so that they don't say anything. Even now she was stepping forward and trying pull and push Caren and Elyssa away from her bullies. That was until one of them grabbed her arm and yanked her back, yelling right in her face.

"You are a…!"

Ichigo didn't need to walk anymore, he was by their side in and instant and had the guy on his knees with his arm twisted behind his back. The Druid let out a snarl as his compatriots stepped back in surprise, before they glowered at him with clear hostility, let them glare, he could do it better.

"I am getting sick and tired of your shit, fix that attitude or I will knock my fist upside your heads until the problem is knocked from your skulls." Ichigo said, emphasizing his point as he twisted the man's arm a bit further and earning himself a grunt.

He glanced back to Adelina; she was shaking slightly, clearly rattled by the sudden attack. This wasn't like her, she had faced down demons and other kinds of threats and never once batted an eye, to make her so fearful like that. And when he looked at her face…

He felt his grip tighten and he twisted just that little bit more.

This time the man let out a pained scream, something was about to break. At this point Ichigo really didn't care which, so long as something hurt.

"Get out of my sight." Ichigo growled, releasing the elf and then kicking him away.

They collected their fellow Druid and skulked off, cursing underneath their breath in their native tongue. He had enough of them harassing Adelina, he had no idea on the reason but he didn't give a damn, they were hurting her and he was not going to let it continue. This was going to be the last time they got off scot free, because next time he would make them remember what happens if they screw with her again.

"You shouldn't have done that; it will only make things harder for you." Adelina said, there was a tremble in her voice, her words shook just like her shoulders.

They had really scared her.

"I don't care, I am not letting them do that to you. Don't go on your own anymore alright, stick with us, we will keep you safe." Ichigo replied, he knew that Adelina couldn't defend herself with these guys here, something was literally holding her back from doing anything.

They needed to be around to make sure she didn't get hurt, from the last incident they had proven that they aren't above using force to threaten her. Last thing he wanted to happen was for her to be harmed, this hatred run deep and he had no idea about where it came from. But like all the other Druids on this peak he had the feeling it was something stupid that truly had no reason to exist.

"Don't worry about us Adelina, just don't let them do that to you." Caren said, stepping forward and putting a hand on her shoulder. "You don't have to worry, we are here, you are not alone."

The trembling returned, Ichigo had a hard time trying to figure out if she was more scared or maybe on the verge of tears. A part of him was scared, truly he couldn't get some horrible thought out of his mind, seeing her like this was making him terrified. A part of it came from the dreams he had been having, seeing her in pain and crying, it certainly would make anyone worried.

But the thing is that he should be able to brush it off. However, another part of him felt like it was continually trying to tear his heart out.

"It… would be better if you didn't worry about me…" Adelina said, slowly walking off.

He wanted to stop her, ask her what was wrong and why they hated her. Everyone but him and the others seemed to know, Quintis knew and that bastard wasn't opening his mouth. Sareth'na and Thal'darah didn't speak up, neither did Elyssa. The only ones that came close were the people who terrorized her, and whenever Ichigo or anyone else was around Adelina was quick to stop them from saying anything. Even if it meant more insults and possible threats of violence.

She was scared, scared of them knowing.

"We need to talk with her about this." Caren said.

"I know, but it is hard to approach her when she is so scared." Ichigo said, she was worried, that they would find something out about her, about why she was being bullied.

Likely she was holding onto something about her past, something happened that left a deep emotional scar, one that not only lingered but was causing her some serious pain. No wonder she didn't want to come back here, this place all but reminded her of her past and all the horrible things she likely had to endure here.

"I know I shouldn't be saying this but this is a subject you best let lie." Elyssa said.

"You want me to just ignore when a friend of mine is being mistreated?" Ichigo asked.

"This isn't the place to be asking her about her history, Adelina has never wished to bring it up, she is afraid not of it, but what it mean for others to know. Many have heard it and it has colored their impression of her."

"Has it colored yours?" Ichigo asked, his response was a disapproving frown.

"I care for her, I never knew of her past when she came here, all I saw was a girl who needed a friend and I was there for her. Even when I did learn of her past, it didn't change what kind of woman she was, only that she has been dealt a bad hand." Elyssa said.

"Then why not let us be the judge of that?" Caren asked.

"Because if I told you and you try to console her it will only make things worse. You want to help her, get her off this mountain and back somewhere safe, somewhere she can open up without fearing retribution would fall on her head." Elyssa replied, Ichigo did not like the way she said it, because it made it appear that the moment, she did anything she was in danger. "As long as she is here all the horrible things she believes can happen are going to happen, in her mind all that happens here is her worst expectations come true."

Ichigo didn't know how to respond to that, but he had a good idea what it meant. How horrible was it here for her to go through this? To be on this peak and suffer through this kind of torture, not because she had no choice. But to make sure that they didn't find out about her dark past. Adelina was someone who had a hard life, he knew that she had some ghosts haunting her, but he didn't think it was this serious.

"If nothing comes of this when the Horde representatives arrive, we will head back to Theramore, no point in staying here indefinitely if no one is willing to listen." Ichigo said, looks like this was going to be a failure.

There was no way he was going to be able to convince these people to let go of their hate. Too proud and stupid to give it up, instead they were going to hold onto it for dear life. Jaina had sent him here to fix things, but in the end, it didn't matter, there was no way he could fix this.

His plans and ideas had fallen through and he had no legitimate support, most of what he had come up with was half-assed anyway and Caren had pointed out several flaws in his proposals from the get go. Sad to say he had nothing else he could do, the Horde representatives were scheduled to arrive in a day or two, and there was no way he was going to get anyone else on his side.

A few of the students had listened, the younger ones who had not had their lives marred with vengeance and old hatred. But the older sort, the Archdruids, they were never going to budge, not on peace, and most certainly not on waiting.

"You are giving up?" Caren asked, looking surprised.

"We can't do anything here, technically Jaina only sent us here on a whim to see if we could make a difference or change opinion. Didn't work. We go back and wait for her to come and see if she had any better luck in Darnassus." Ichigo responded, he knew that it was gamble for them to come here and hope they would succeed.

Most of the people didn't care for them for various reasons, even Codexia told them that she was being discriminated against simply because she was human. From whatever angle you look at it there was no way he was going to be able to do anything here that would amount to anything, the people were just too proud.

He hated to leave things unsettled, but there was little he could do now.

Until then they had to get back to work, he parted ways with Caren and Elyssa and continued his efforts. Although he decided to mainly try and focus on those that were actually going to listen, he made the most headway with them and if he could gain some trust maybe they could help him. Not with the damn Highborne but the other Druids, if he could get a few more onboard maybe instead of a success he could create a deadlock.

He had a nice long talk with Naralax, of all the Druids on this peak he was the only one that was remotely approachable and while he had his doubts, he was willing to listen. Ichigo had also learned a few things about Druid culture from him, some important and others a little bizarre. Apparently when at a Druids funeral it is customary to spit on their graves as a sign of respect.

But more than that he eventually learned about specific camps in the Cenarian Circle, it would seem that Fandral Staghelm has a significant following. But not everyone in the Circle liked their current leader, he had to guess as much given how he was in constant turmoil with the High Priestess and even Cenarius' son Romulus.

Despite this Staghelm held a large amount of sway even with those that didn't fully agree with his views and methods, many of whom were on this peak.

That made things difficult. Ichigo had no doubt he would never be able to convince these guys to change their way of thinking, especially if that man was at the head of their little group. But most of all, he learned something about Adelina's former teacher, Fahnelor was a close friend and student to Staghelm. He didn't not know that already but he now came to realize just how much of a problem he would have in convincing people here.

Right now, he was on the losing side of this negotiation, and if Jaina was having just as much difficulty, then he had no doubt that this was all going to fall through. This was not good, not good at all.

"Why do you remain here, continually pestering us with this inane drivel."

Ichigo narrowed his eyes as he heard that voice, he looked over his shoulder and scowled at the approaching Druid. Not far behind him he noticed a few of his students, all of them were familiar, they were the punks that continually harassed and tried to push around Adelina.

"Master Fahnelor, I would think that it be best that you do not antagonize the negotiating party." Naralax said, his words low and calm, if not a bit reproachable.

"You should not stand and listen to the words of some human, it would only reflect poorly upon yourself if you continue to mingle with the lesser races." Fahnelor said.

"Only guy here that is proving himself the lesser is you." Ichigo said, glaring at the Druid. "You like picking on those that cannot fight back, that you see as weaker than you. That is what cowards do."

Ichigo had enough of this guy, this was truthfully the second time he had met him and the first he had not broken words but he was putting his foot down that he just didn't like him. His words met their mark, the way he scowled and the veins on his forehead bulged proved that he was infuriated by the comment.

"You dare insult me!"

"The fact my insult actually got a reaction means that there is truth to what I just said, lies do not hurt as much as the truth does." Ichigo said, feeling a smirk tug on his lips. "So why not take yourself and those cronies of yours somewhere else so I don't have to waste another breath on you."

Ichigo actually felt kind of pleased with himself now, he had been holding his tongue – mostly – not saying anything bad about these asshats. But to actually let it out he felt a lot of his stress wash away, he was never one to hold his tongue when it came to others bullshit, and this was no exception. But he found that restraining himself a little made his words just that more scathing, he loved it.

"Vulgar and unworthy to be here, not unlike that vile girl you brought with you." Fahnelor said.

Ichigo knew exactly who he was referring to, his satisfaction turned to irritation, turning he glared at the man. Daring him to speak up, what he did to the last guy would look tame compared to the bloody mess he would leave him in if he tried to slander his friend again.

"I am going to be really friendly right now, so make sure you do not take this the wrong way. Say one word about Adelina, even whisper it under your breath, and I will beat you bloody and make you grovel for an apology. From her."

"You defend that girl; it is obvious you do not know who she really is."

"I know who she is, and if I have learned anything since coming here it is that she is twice the Druid any of those idiots standing behind you are. And she is better than you." Ichigo replied, the effect was immediate, the scowl and rage that crossed his face was nearly comedic. But he wouldn't be able to enjoy it because of how livid he felt right now.

"How dare you!" One of the students bellowed, followed by several others that threw insults at him for his brazen remark.

"If these guys take after you, I know for a fact she is better than all of your. Instead of bitching and complaining how things aren't going your way she actually remains calm and composed instead of getting uppity like some child. Guess it helps that she isn't someone with half a brain." Ichigo continued, he really should thank Caren for teaching him how to taunt and insult people, she certainly knows how to do it.

Although his joy was short lived as Adelina came rushing in, clearly worried about the implications of his little war of words with her former teacher. She took him by the arm and tried to lead him off, all the while stealing fearful glances towards Fahnelor as she tried to pull him away.

"I am sorry Master Fahnelor, please do not waste anymore words here! I will leave your sight with Ichigo now." Adelina said, desperate to get him away from this asshole, or more than likely herself.

"My sight is already sullied with your presence, to be expected that where there is one problem the cause is to appear as well." Fahnelor said, scowling down at her with barely restrained contempt.

"I-I am sorry master…" Adelina said, her strength appears to disappear as she could do nothing but hold onto his arm, like a child fearfully holding onto a parent's sleeve.

"Everywhere you go, everywhere you appear it only causes more harm for our people and this order. You should never have been made a Druid." He said. "You should not have to sully this world with your presence."

Ichigo didn't need to think long or hard about what he meant by that, he felt his own teeth ache as he clenched his jaw and his own palms bleed as his nails dug into the flesh. The only thing stopping him from reaching for this asshole is the frightened girls currently holding onto his arm, still shivering.

"I think that is enough Master Fahnelor." Naralax said, his words a lot less light than before. "You have said your piece, now depart."

"Do not try and defend her, you know her sins." Fahnelor sneered, glaring at Adelina. "This girl is nothing more than a mistake that continues to haunt us."

Ichigo felt everything go still…

"How much of your fathers' crimes…"

"No! Please! No more, please do not speak of my father!" Adelina said, desperation in her words as she stepped forward.

"Be silent!" Fahnelor yelled, his arm raised as he prepared to strike.

As it fell Ichigo grasped the offending limb, halting it before it could even touch Adelina. He held it there, his grip slowly tightening, he could barely register anything else going on around him. It was like being in a dream, what he sees and hears seemed to be so dull he couldn't hear yet knowing exactly what everyone was saying.

But as he looked at the Druid, he was holding in a vice grip, his fingers digging into the arm and actually forcing the Druid to his knees. But he didn't see the twisted visage of this bastard of a man, no, instead he saw her face. He could see the eyes that shone with pain, tears falling from them and trailing over the dark bruises on her light purple skin. She was looking at him, her expression morphed into a vision of pain and misery, it haunted him.

"Her only mistake… was being born…"

His fingers dug that little bit deeper, seeing the pain in this Druid's face as he nearly broke through his skin, nearly shattered his bones. Yes, he deserved everything he got, for all that he said, all that he did, he was going to kill this bastard. First, he would break his arm, then something else, and keep going until he was nothing but a broken carcass on the ground.

"Ichigo! Please don't!"

He was pulled from his thoughts, the world around him returning, he looked to Adelina and saw her worried face as sweat drenched her brow. Looking back, he saw the wary Naralax, his staff now in hand and looking ready to stop him if it came down to it. Fahnelor was still on his knees, face twisted in pain, as he tried to wrestle his arm free from the Shinigami's vice grip.

Behind the kneeling Druid was his students, fearful but looking ready to jump him to save their teacher, those whose legs that did not appear to be ready to give out from underneath them. Blinking for a moment he composed himself, taking in a few breaths as he fought for control over his warring emotions, and then he looked down at the Druid.

"You raise a hand to her again, say another word like that to her, and I promise I will introduce you to a world of pain the likes of which you have never known." Ichigo warned, releasing his grip on the Druid and turning from him.

Adelina quickly led him away, before anything else could be said or done.

They fled back to the warrens, Adelina letting go of his arm and rounding on him.

"Why did you do that!?" She shouted, angry and worried, she looked so unhinged it made him concerned. "You should have let him be! This will only make things worse!"

"Worse? How can it be any worse than allowing my friend to get attacked? You expect me to sit back and let you get hurt because of some summit?" Ichigo retorted.

"But this is important, whatever happens to me…"

"I don't give a damn about the summit! I am not going to let them hurt you no matter if this summit falls through or not." Ichigo said, he was completely serious, he didn't care if this ruined everything or not, he was not going to stand by and let her get hurt.

This entire thing could go to hell for all he cared, no one here wanted to have anything to do with them and if the Horde ambassadors did nothing in the end, he wasn't going to stay that long after. In fact, he had told Caren to see about getting a portal ready so they could get back to Theramore at the earliest opportunity. He was not going to waste time with these Druids if they continued to stone wall them.

Worst came to worst he would talk with Jaina and see if there was an alternative to speaking with the Druids, maybe with Tyrande.

"But you don't even know why they do it… why they hate me so…"

"There isn't any reason out there that they have the right to treat you like that." Ichigo replied.

In a way this reminded him of how Chad used to be, he was a giant of a man and very daunting, but he never used to raise his fists. His past was marked with tragedy and pain and he never allowed himself to harm others, he was willing to take a beating if it meant he would never have to fight.

Adelina was different, but at the same time she wasn't. There was deep pain and shame in why they didn't defend themselves, they held themselves back because they thought they deserved this punishment as recompense for past mistakes. Ichigo had helped Chad see a new reason to fight, showing him that there are good and pure reasons to fight, not for oneself but for the sake of theirs. He showed Chad another way.

But Adelina…

He couldn't ask her, thinking back to Elyssa said, if he spoke up and tried to pressure her more than likely she would clamp up and retreat. He couldn't have that, she was terrified of this place, and for good reason from the few encounters she has had with the residents. Getting her out of here fast was his top priority.

"Listen… let's find Caren, I think we should have a talk about what we are going to do now." Ichigo said, he felt awkward trying to change the subject, but he knew it would be better for Adelina if he didn't bring this up again.

They only had to stay for two more days, at least, if they could get through this before the end maybe they could get out of here without further incident. He had found Caren easily enough; she was barely containing herself in trying to negotiate with the Druids when he turned up. They had walked off immediately when he was within earshot, likely the story of him 'assaulting' that asshole Fahnelor had spread.

"Hey Caren, can we talk for a bit." Ichigo said, and immediately she rounded on him.

"You attacked one of the Druids? Are you out of your mind?" She hissed, clearly trying to keep her volume low. "We are ambassadors trying to negotiate here, even if we fail to do anything, we shouldn't leave an even worse impression."

"He was going to hit Adelina." Ichigo replied, he was calm about it, no shouting or irritation.

He saw Caren's expression do a complete one eighty, shocked to be sure, then she looked back towards their friend who still hadn't raised her head. There was a tranquility around Caren now, nothing but calm, although Ichigo knew that beneath those waters was something vengeful and angry.

"I think she should stay by our side from now on." Caren uttered, letting out a pent-up breath.

"I agree." Ichigo said. "These guys have it in for her, if we don't keep them away, they might try something."

In a way he was worried they might do worse, if this is the kind of abuse she was subjugated to while on this peak during her training he didn't know what level of torture she went through. But if this is what was normal, even as horrific as it was, he didn't want to imagine how they would react if they discovered her involvement in Ethel Rethor and the Great Tree.

They might actually try to kill her.

"Ichigo Kurosaki."

Turning he found a Druid standing nearby, she regarded him neutrally, long aqua hair tied into a braid. He recognised her, she was amongst the students that followed Naralax around.

"I am Ebru, a Disciple of Naralax, my master wishes to speak with you." She said, giving a small now of the head in his direction.

Great. Now he likely had to face the music with him.

"Caren." Ichigo said, turning to her and saying what not needed be said.

"Yes, do not worry." Caren replied, understanding what he wanted.

"Alright." Ichigo nodded, turning back to Ebru. "Let's go see Naralax then."

They walked back into the burrows, eventually coming to a small chamber, not so different than the other dens in this cavern of intertwining tunnels. Inside he found Naralax along with his disciples, the latter ground all giving him wary looks, some of them had likely seen what he had done to Fahnelor, couldn't blame them on being worried. Oddly enough he was speaking with Codexia of all people.

"Master, I have brought Ichigo Kurosaki." Ebru said, giving a respectful bow.

"Thank you Ebru." Naralax said, turning to Ichigo and frowning slightly. "That was a very reckless move on your part with Master Fahnelor, attacking him and releasing that potent power of yours."

Ichigo was surprised for a moment, he had released his spiritual pressure? He didn't realise, although, given that he was in a state of pure unadulterated rage that made sense. He had lashed out, one part out of anger and another out of fear, he was lost in his own emotions to really know what had happened. That concerned him a little, he remembered the last time he had lost control of himself, when he had gone mad with rage and done harm.

Lost Point Tower... those Kul Tiras solders.

He steeled himself, unwilling to dredge up that memory, it was something he regretted. Losing control like that, lashing out like an animal, letting 'it' influence him rather than the other way around. Ichigo knew he had to keep himself on a short leash, or get the hell of this peak before something else happened.

"Can you honestly blame me for what happened?" Ichigo asked, crossing his arms.

"Coming to her defence does not give you permission to nearly break the Archdruid's arm, no matter the circumstances there will be repercussions for what you did. You overstepped, and now what support you have will likely disappear."

"Do I look like I care?" Ichigo said, his scowl deepening. "And from the fact you aren't bringing up that Fahnelor tried to strike Adelina, I am going to guess that this wasn't the first time he has done this. Or others for that matter."

Naralax seemed to sag under the accusation, it was clear as day that what he said was true. That pissed him off.

"What the hell did Adelina do to deserve this?" Ichigo asked, he wasn't going to beat around the bush here, he needed to know.

"It is not so much Adelina, but her father. I will not give you the details, this is a matter that I do not feel you should hear from me." Naralax said. "Her father committed a grave offence, his actions leading to a terrible tragedy that many blame him for. Regrettably, he perished during the Battle of Mount Hyjal, leaving him irredeemable in the eyes of many in this order."

Ichigo narrowed his eyes.

"Sins of the father huh? So, they pay him back by tormenting his daughter, how fucking pathetic can they be?" Ichigo growled. "How fucking petty?"

What kind of bastard goes after the kids of someone you hate, she did nothing wrong and yet they are treating her like a pariah because she is that man's father? He was inclined to beat the shit out of those bastards that thought so just to make them feel what it is like to be oppressed.

"Fahnelor is one of the more aggressive masters on this peak, and one of the most influential, attempts to reprimand his behavior have not met with success." Naralax said. "As a close ally to Fandral Staghelm, it makes sense why some do not wish to oppose him. Both for his treatment of Adelina and his views. With your recent attack on him, there is little chance you will gain support from any of the Druids here."

"I have as much support as I did the moment I got here, most of the Druids don't want to hear what I have to say and the rest are too chicken shit to side with me and go against the majority."

"There is a reason for that." Naralax said.

"Oh really, why not tell me? Because you are firmly in the latter category. I know for a fact that you are stringing me along without giving me a clear answer. Instead of saying you will help or not you just give me reasons you want to join but also don't." Ichigo said, he was tired of this game of cat and mouse.

"Dedicating one's energies to a task that is doomed to fail is a pointless affair. I will not make myself a pariah unless there is some benefit to it."

"So, as long as you get something you will sell out?" Ichigo asked, he shouldn't really insult the guy, he was the only support he had right now, but that support was not that strong.

He didn't seem to take lightly to the jab, neither did his disciples, but he really didn't care at this point.

"I do not seek to benefit from this, one way or another, my only concern is on ensuring the stability and protection of Azeroth. What I want to gain is something that would help restore it to its natural splendor." Naralax replied, letting out a sigh. "I advocate peace because I know that war would devastate the continent, Ashenvale is already suffering in spite of the peace. I dread to think what would happen if war began."

Ichigo had a guess at what he wanted, the Druids main purpose was to ensure the balance and stability of nature in the world. Adelina had told him about how they were guardians, that their efforts were to defend this world and life on it. At this moment, Naralax was likely one of the few Druids on this peak who actually cared more about preserving nature than some petty grudges.

"I was hesitant to aid you. Even if you are well respected by many in the Sentinel Army, having both the General's approval along with her officers, I cannot give my support along with my Disciples without careful consideration." Naralax said. "However, Codexia here has informed me of something that has caught my interest. Something, in spite of its recklessness, I believe can be used for our benefit."

Ichigo glanced towards Codexia, she had actually convinced the guy? How the hell had she managed that? She was likely the most hated amongst them and she got this guy to side with her? As much as he believed this was some trick, likely it was given who it was, he had no doubt that he was bribing this guy right now.

"Codexia has informed me of a grand scheme in the process in the Desolace, one that I am intrigued with." Naralax said.

Codexia stepped forward, smiling as she delved into the plans that had been set in motion in the Desolace. She spoke of the Great Trees, how they were being used there. Ichigo had recalled about four of them were set up in the Desolace. Each one serving some sort of unknown purpose, but Codexia had informed him just now that six were actually in existence.

"The one within Ethel Rethor that was restored served as one of the first circuits. Another was grown in Thunderbluff near the Pool of Visions." Codexia informed. "The intend behind these six trees was to create a powerful circuit that would encompass all of the Desolace."

"For what reason?" Ichigo asked.

"You know about the Elemental Invasion, that was caused by the removal of Veles heart from Terramok. Even when you placed Theradras' heart within the device we discovered that it would only be a temporary solution. We needed a new plan, one that permanently sealed the breach into the Elemental Planes." Codexia said. "We would force another spiritual plane to fall upon the breach and force it closed."

Ichigo's eyes widened, was she actually suggesting that they use one spiritual domain to push back another? A breech that was literally bleeding into the material world, wasn't that like using the Soul Society to hold back Hueco Mundo as both of them slowly fell onto the World of the Living. He may not be that caught up on all things related to the Balance or spirituality, but back on earth he had been told that if two spiritual domains come close together, they can literally destroy each other. It would be chaos.

"Is that safe?" Ichigo asked.

"Yes, do not worry, there will be no major catastrophe." Codexia replied, he didn't have much confidence in her assurances. "The Great Trees all connect to the Emerald Dream, each acting as a gateway to that ethereal realm. By drawing the dream into the material domain, we are able to force back the breach in Maraudon, literally using the weight of the emerald dream to push it down and keep it contained."

That sounded dangerous, from what he saw those Great Trees were located all around the Desolace, literally around it. If she was forcing the Dream to manifest over such a large area there had to be some sort of consequence, he couldn't think of one. But he was certain that the Cenarian Circle would, they were definitely going to make a huge fuss over this when they found out.

"How are you on board with this? She is literally using the Emerald Dream as a plug to hold back a leak." Ichigo asked.

"Because there are several benefits to be had from this, specifically the energies of the Dream are now leaking into the Desolace." Naralax said, smiling slightly. "For over a thousand years the Desolace has been a dead wasteland, no life can flourish there unless they feed on each other. But now, there is a chance to restore it to its former glory."

"The energies of the Dream are beginning to restore life in the region, if we give it a few months we could be looking at the complete restoration of the Desolace." Codexia said.

Immediately he caught onto what Codexia was planning, she was going to use the Druids own desire to protect nature. By helping restore the Desolace she hoped to prevent the Druids from putting forward any aggressive action towards the Highborne. If they started a war the efforts to protect this now flourishing land would come to a tragic end.

It was underhanded, but it had to be done because these assholes were not seeing the bigger picture here. If that was the case than they could literally make the Desolace into a habitable region that could be settled in once again, maybe the Tauren would settle there and start their lives anew. In fact, given what was happening in their current territories maybe migrating there wouldn't be a bad idea.

"If we can show that the lands are being reconstituted, we can set up a dialogue. The Cenarian Circle has always been searching for methods to improve upon their means of restoring the land to its former glory. If this succeeds and bares fruit you can be assured many in the order will move to halt any conflict just to preserve the Desolace." Naralax said.

That was good, maybe they were actually getting somewhere.

"Can we expect that even those less than cooperative ones will help us?" Ichigo asked.

"Unlikely, Fandral would oppose this, without question." Naralax said.

"Didn't that guy plant his own Great Trees?" Ichigo asked, he recalled back at Dream Bough that said Archdruid had without permission planted five of these things, even made a World Tree. In fact, he made two.

"Despite his hypocrisy he will never accept that this was done by someone outside the order, saying that it was done for nefarious reasons. He will likely spin some tale that will vilify you, the only option to gain another's support to gain the Cenarian Circles allegiance." Naralax said.

Someone else? He heard that there was someone named Malfurion Stormrage, the supposed leader of the order, but he was nowhere to be found. If that guy was AWOL then who did he have to meet to get some support? Then it hit him.

"Romulus." Ichigo spoke aloud, Naralax had said that there was a lot of contention between Naralax and Cenarius' son, a Keeper of the Groove.

"Correct, Romulus is as influential as Staghelm, even more so in fact. Being the son of the Forest God is not a title one can carry. If you were able to enter the Moonglade, a sacred site for Druidism and the headquarters of the entire order, you can try to convince him." Naralax said.

"You think I can do that?" Ichigo asked, convincing these guys hasn't been easy.

"Did you know that Zaetar is the brother of Remulos, alongside him was Celebras, who is Remulus' son. You saved both from Theradras and Maraudon. You certainly would have earned his favor is saving his brother and son, I am certain he will be receptive to your request." Naralax said.

Ichigo most certainly did not know that, at least he didn't remember if he had been told as such. But this works out he supposed, if he could get Remulus to help him maybe he could see about either gaining the Druids support or at least deadlocking them with Staghelm's party. Maybe this wasn't a wasted trip after all, but he still had to figure out how to get into Moonglade.

"How do I get an audience with him?" Ichigo asked.

"Not easily, outsiders are usually forbidden from entering the Moonglade. You will need an invitation, either from a Shando from the Circle or from the High Priestess of Elune." Naralax said.

"So, I need Tyrande to get me in." Ichigo mused, he would now need to get an audience with her. "I'll ask Jaina first chance I get. The quicker I get to Remulus to better."

"I would also advise you think of a solution, to gain support from all parties, if you do not convince the Son of Cenarius I am afraid there is little hope in averting this war." Naralax said.

"I'll keep that in mind." Ichigo said.

His plans at the moment are basic at best, the most he had discussed was a ceasefire and keeping the peace, often making concessions to either side. Even pointing out that the tension between the Horde and Alliance is only this way because of the Highborne's presence. That if they took a few factors out of the picture things would be a lot less tense.

But right now, that was falling through, he needed to see about making some grand gesture that would solidify the two groups. Something that allows them to all agree without an ounce of hesitation, basically it would have to be so good that the Horde would jump at the chance and the Cenarian Circle didn't give much a damn if they gave it away.

Not like there was much of that going around.

"This is going to be difficult." Ichigo mused.

"You will have time, and perhaps this is a good chance to learn from the Tauren about what they desire." Naralax said.

"What do you mean?" Ichigo asked.

"Word came from Tortheldrin Lodge, the Centaur and Harpies are becoming an issue. They are requesting reinforcements to help deal with them." Naralax said. "Tortheldrin and Sareth'na have already departed, along with a cadre of Druids. I am to go as well. I wish for you to accompany me."

"Why me?" Ichigo asked.

"Because of the Centaur and Harpies, the path between Sunrock Retreat and Tortheldrin Lodge has been blocked. The Tauren ambassadors are unable to reach the peak, until the path is cleared, they cannot move up the mountain." Naralax said. "If you come with me and meet with the Tauren you might be able to determine what they desire out of this summit."

That was a good idea, if he could figure out what they wanted he might be able to formulate an actual plan. He didn't need to discuss it any further, giving a nod he accepted the request. They would depart within an hour; they were actually being given mounts to ride down the mountain to reach the lodge.

He didn't have Zangetsu here, he had been forced to leave it behind at the lodge. Bringing weapon up here was a major offence, or at least that was what he had been told, outsiders coming here wasn't exactly allowed either.

"How long do you intend to be gone?" Caren asked.

"Two or three days. Maybe more depending on how far the retreat is from here." Ichigo replied, he didn't have anything really to take with him so he was just saying his goodbyes.

"Do you need any help?" Caren asked.

Ichigo looked at her and knew exactly where she was going with this, take Adelina with you and get her away from these bastards. He had asked and Naralax was willing to help, allowing for one of his students to remain behind so she could ride down the mountain with them.

"Yeah, I might. Hey Adelina, do you want to come with me?" Ichigo asked, turning to the Druid.

She perked up at that, she almost looked hopeful of finally escaping from this place. Standing up she rushed over to him, looking uncertain if she should cry or hug him, he just smiled and beckoned her.

"Come on, let's get out of here." Ichigo said, before he looked to Caren. "Can you hold down the fort while we are gone?"

"Yes, I will handle all the hard stuff, you just do you." Caren replied, it may have appeared snobby but he knew deep down it was from the heart. That snobby little heart.

"Just try not to do anything unbecoming alright." Ichigo smirked, watching as she gave him a blank look that all but screamed 'really, you're saying that to me?'.

They left a few minutes ago, meeting up with Naralax and his Disciples, they were riding on Hippogryphs this time. Nice, he had yet to actually ride on one of these creatures, he had been told by Adelina in passing that they were more agile and swift than Gryphons. He couldn't wait to see if that was true.

They mounted up and took off down the mountain, at the rate they were going they could reach the Lodge in maybe an hour or two. A full day's journey on foot could be covered in just about an hour, shows how good it is to have transportation on hand to help.

They could see the lodge in the distance, right on the precipice, but more than that they also noticed things flying up and around the lodge. The Hippogryph riders were easy to spot, but the more humanoid creatures were a little trickier to notice. This had been the first time he had seen a harpy.

Avian in appearance, they were a mix between elven woman and birds, but what beauty the that could be seen was tarnished by the vicious snarl upon their faces and the murderous glint in their eyes. Claws and talons instead of hands and feet, they were dark and appeared sharp enough to rend flesh and metal with ease. Their features covered most of their naked forms, hiding what modesty they had, colorful and almost alluring.

But the way they swooped upon the Lodge and its defenders with shrieks of rage only made them appear more wild beast than sentient being.

"Attack! Aid our brothers." Naralax order, readying his staff.

Ichigo reached for the sword on his hip, since he had not been able to bring Zangetsu to the peak he had to be given a sword by one of the Sentinels. He had not really used another sword before, it was strange to hold onto this shorter and narrower blade, although the handle did feel a lot more comfortable.

Ichigo guided the Hippogryph towards the fighting, readying his blade for when the Harpies were within range. He swung wide and clipped one in the wing, sending it screeching towards the ground, he followed up with another swing and cut open another's chest.

He proved himself to be a major threat now, many breaking off from other riders to attack him. Just like he wanted, if they focus on him it would be easier for the rest to attack while he handled the larger groups. Although that might not have been a wise decision, he didn't have the same kind of maneuverability as he did on the ground. It was becoming a day of firsts for him, because right now he was fighting to keep himself from being ripped from the sky by a swarm of angry harpies.

If he was alone, he might be in trouble.

But he had some help.

Arrows, magic and blades rained down on the Harpies form all sides, carving them apart. They may have surrounded him but the other Hippogryph riders had done the same. They swooped in and scattered the Harpies, tearing through them quickly and efficiently.

"Careful there, these creatures are not to be taken lightly, not this far in the sky!" Naralax called out.

"I was luring them to me so the rest of you could attack!" Ichigo replied back, he was not going to have another spiel about how he was reckless.

He may make risky moves but he was confident in his ability to keep himself alive, it had worked out more time than it didn't. Although, looking back on it he realized he should have probably stuck to being careful rather than fighting in an unfamiliar way. He wasn't going to admit that aloud, it would come back to haunt him for certain.

"Let's finish them off!" Ichigo said, guiding his mount forward and towards the other swarms of these harpies.

The battle was swift, with the aid of several more Druids they had been able to push the Harpies away from the Lodge and then finally defeat them over the valley. Even Adelina put in a lot of effort, blowing away several with gusts of wind, knocking several down with moon fire bolts. She was a juggernaut on the battlefield, from the looks of some of the Disciples they were surprised with how proficient she was.

"This is it!" Sentinel Mistress Geleneth called out, spear in hand and leading the charge at the final group of harpies. "Flank around them, cut off any escape routes! Push into their center!"

They charged in, five groups of three moving off to surrounded them all sides – horizontally and vertically – while the rest charged into the center mass of the beasts and scattered them. It was a close quarters and bloody affair, but in quick order they had put them all down, leaving them to fall to the earth dead or with their wings clipped.

"Fall back to the Outlook!" Geleneth ordered, turning her mount around and guiding it back to the base.

Landing they quickly dismounted, their mounts taken immediately to be checked along with any wounded they might have. That was an intense battle, fighting in the air was not exactly easy, it really cut down your ability to move freely. Maybe he should see about getting in some practice, although that would likely be low on the list of things he would need to learn.

Honestly there was so much he needed to learn here, apart from fighting, he had to see about actually getting some useful skills. Maybe take up a job, would be interesting, but what the hell would he do? Maybe a doctor, follow in the footsteps of his dad, he had the training and basic knowledge. Hell, it was probably more advanced than here considering they mostly use magic to cure most illnesses.

Okay maybe that wasn't going to be useful.

Also, maybe it wasn't time for him to think about a different career path right this minute.

"You did well up there." Lord Fallowmere said, strolling forward with Zangetsu in his hands. "You certainly have an instinct for fighting in the sky, perhaps you could fly in the world you came from."

Ichigo wasn't going to tell him he could, although he wasn't that surprise this guy knew he wasn't from Azeroth. Although he took it in stride Ichigo still wondered if he believed he was actually from a completely different planet. Didn't matter, right now what was important, he didn't call him here to chat.

"I heard that the Centaur were causing problems here as well." Ichigo said, taking Zangetsu and feeling an odd sensation of comfort knowing that the blade was back in his hands.

Geleneth and Naralax strolled up to Fallowmere.

"With the Harpies gone we move onto the next threat, the Centaur. There is a Grove several miles down the mountain, the Centaur are currently attacking it." Fallowmere said. "We will be riding down there to remove the threat and escort the Tauren to this Outlook."

The plan seemed straightforward.

"Naralax, I want your Druids to remain here to protect the Outlook from further attack. Geleneth, take your Sentinels down to the Grove and reinforce it." Fallowmere ordered, receiving a nod from both, he then turned to him. "Ichigo, I would like to ask that you provide support to the Sentinel Mistress, along with being an envoy to Sunrock Retreat to collect the Ambassadors there."

Ichigo nodded his head, that made sense, he had decent relations with the Tauren and they trusted him. If he went to say they could come up the mountain and would escort them there they wouldn't likely put up much of a fuss.

"No problem, I can do that." Ichigo said.

They were given a few minutes to prepare, Fallowmere wasn't going to be waiting that long. If the Groove was under attack than likely people were in danger, it was a training group for novice Druids after all, a lot of people would be vulnerable down there.

"You going to be alright?" Ichigo asked, stepping up beside Adelina.

"Yes, do not worry about me." She said, her smile looking more genuine now than before.

"Hey, if you ever want to talk, I am always willing to listen. Don't forget that, I am here for you." Ichigo said, he felt a little embarrassed saying that but he needed her to know he was there for her.

He wanted to remind her that she was someone who was important to him and that she didn't need to worry. If she wanted to speak with him, he would listen, but he just hoped that she was willing to do it. Whatever she was holding onto, about her father, about what she thought about him and how those Druids treated her, it wasn't something he could look the other way on.

"Thank you." She said, her smile returning with full sincerity.

"I'll be back as fast as I can, so don't worry." Ichigo replied, turning as a Hippogryph was brought before him.

Mounting it he gave Adelina one last look before he took off into the air.

Sailing through the skies down the mountain slope really was different, it cleared his head and soothed his nerves. This day had started out like all the others, been a few curve balls and issues, but it looked like things were taking a turn for the better.


There you have it, hope you liked it.