Hello, another chapter. This is another milestone for me, mostly because it is such a powerful chapter with what happens in it. In a way this was a major motivator for me to get this set up and out. In fact with this I am not far away from the conclusion of this arc. Two or three chapters to be exact.
I plan to finish this arc for Adelina in three chapters and then focus on Are We Alone for a while, get that back up to scratch and start posting a few chapters for that and then move back to this story. I find it a lot easier when I post fortnightly, might not get it out regularly but I am getting it out. So I am content with that.
Now the reason this is an important chapter... well I am not telling. In fact this has been in the works since the very beginning of my original draft. It is just now I have a legit reason for it to go down like this and so and so. But I am not spoiling anything here, you need to read and find out what is going to happen. This is a major thing for the story and Adelina.
Anyway, enjoy.
Edit: I would like to thank Rhavis, his review brought to my attention that I actually did not put on the correct version of this chapter. There were errors and a few inconsistencies in it, I am sorry for that. The correct version is now up and without typos. Thank you again Rhavis for that catch.
Transcendence
Chapter 75: Breaking Down
The Thal'darah Grove was a small commune hustled near the base of the valley, nestled on a slight hill just above the lowest part of the Stonetalon Pass that ran straight towards the Desolace. Unlike the dull brown and orange of the mountains there was an emerald carpet of fresh grass and a small forest that smothered this small area of green.
At its center was a large tree, purple leaves standing out against the dark green of the smaller woods. While nestled against the rock face of the cliffs was a single lodge, a series of sentry towers could be spied from on high. It was not a well defended location, for why would it be? This was a place of learning and study; Druids would come here to broaden their knowledge and often begin their path to becoming protectors of nature.
"Can you see anything?"
Ichigo couldn't, there was smoke everywhere and he could see that the forest had been set alight. The Centaur were here and already causing mayhem, it wouldn't be long before this entire place was turned to ash.
"I'll land around the edge of the Grove!" Ichigo called out, looking to Master Thal'darah who rode just beside him. "I'll cut them off and stop them from getting further into the Grove! You guys protect the students!"
He received a nod, not a moment later he broke off and descended to the edge of the Grove. He could see a pack of Centaur already moving in to take part in the slaughter, they wouldn't get a chance. His Hippogryph fell upon the centaur, talons rending flesh and its long beak stabbing and snapping at the savage cousins of the Keepers.
Leaping from his mount he swung at the nearest Centaur, cutting it down before it could raise its weapon in defense. The sudden shock of his attack had thrown the mad marauders into disarray, giving him enough time to whittle down their numbers to a fraction of their original strength. He swung wide and decapitated a shaman, her veiled head flying free, and then following up with a stab, impaling his victim.
Reaching for the spear in its dying grasp he ripped it free, along with Zangetsu, and used both to cut down two more centaur. He moved and danced around them, with his mount by his side he was able to make short work of the savages.
The ground was littered with two dozen bodies, nodding his head he turned to the forest of the grove. The trees were alight and smoke created a veil that obscured all view of anything between those towering woods, shadows danced within but he could only count a few.
"Let's go." Ichigo said, looking to his mount – who gave a shrill cry as it responded.
He took off running, dashing into the smoke clogged forests and into the unknown. Dodging the fires and embers that rained down upon him he moved for the center of the grove, cutting down anything that drew near him while his mount covered his rear.
Swinging to the side he cut down a marauder before chucking his spear forward and nailing a Shaman in the chest, the volatile lightning in her hands fizzling out as she died. He didn't have his armor, and the last thing he wanted to have happen was get struck by lightning again, the first time was not fun and he wasn't going to let it happen a second. Because this time he didn't have a certain Druid around to pull him out of the fire. But…
"Hey, you will drag me to safety if worst comes to worse right?" Ichigo asked, turning to the Hippogryph who was busy snapping the neck of a centaur with its beak.
Releasing its victim, it jerked its head from side to side before giving a low throaty chortle, it almost sounded like it was mocking him. He smirked at the bird before he continued on, moving to and fro he cut down anything in his way. Resistance was building the further he pushed forward, he was getting closer to the heart of the enemy force.
A guttural roar reached his ears, and soon enough he found a large hulking Centaur in makeshift armor and with bloody trophies tied to its side. The heads of several Night Elves to be precise, he even noticed a sheet of pale blue on its back, likely the skin of an unfortunate elf it had captured.
Narrowing his eyes, he quickly scanned the surroundings, it had a few protectors with it. Mostly some shamans, that could make this fight tricky, nothing more dangerous than a Khan that has his harem nearby. But it was even more daunting because there were a few others as well, this looked like the main raiding party. Take this out and it would be safe to say that the threat had been dealt with.
"Hey, stay back and wait for my signal." Ichigo whispered, coming close to his mount and petting it. "I'll draw them in, be ready to catch me."
Smirking he turned and rushed into the fray, taking Zangetsu into a reverse grip and then throwing it. He impaled a Centaur, who let out a garbled cry, before leaping towards another between the one he skewered and himself, knocking it out with a punch to the jaw. Grabbing the handle, he ripped his weapon from the carcass and swung his blade around, cutting down a third.
Snatching the axe it dropped, he threw it at one of the shamans, nailing her right in the chest. The rest of the centaur had taken notice, screaming in their native tongue and charging him with murderous intent. He didn't change his path or slow his charge, he was moving right for that Khan, kill him and the threat of this raid was gone. Unlikely there would be infighting but they certainly wouldn't be able to organize themselves quickly.
Weaving between the centaur he moved for his target, and as soon as he reached him, he attacked. The Khan raised its large hatchet to protect himself, but that crude iron weapon didn't stand a chance against a spiritually forged weapon. The weapon shattered, the arm holding it was severed from the elbow, leaving the Khan shouting in rage at its lost weapon and arm.
He jumped forward and kicked a Shaman in the face, using her head as a springboard to get some air to get a nice view of this marauders neck. As soon as he saw it, he swung, severed the head of the centaur without meeting any resistance. The Khan was dead, his body toppling forward, nothing more than a pedestal for Ichigo to stand on.
'Now for step two.' Ichigo mused.
Their leader may be dead but the centaur were not going to stop, they would want revenge. But sadly, none of them were going to get it, he let out a whistle and started swinging left and right to fend off the savages that looked ready to tear out his liver and eat it. He did not need to defend himself for more than a few moments before he saw his rescue arrive, raising a hand he grabbed hold of his Hippogryphs talon and was pulled off the ground.
Sailing through the air he dangled beneath his mount and looked down at the large cluster of Centaurs, who jeered at him from below. With a smirk he raised Zangetsu, bathing it in spiritual energy, and swung down hard. The Getsuga Tenshō crashed into the group, exploding with tremendous force and blowing away the smoke and ash that choked the forest floor.
"Let's clean the rest up." Ichigo said, his ride giving a chortle in reply as it flew low and dropped him off.
Landing on the ground he surveyed the damage, apart from the scorched earth where his Getsuga had impacted he found only chunks of the Centaur remaining. With a few fresh bodies still around that had not been torn apart, he could see nothing but death at the moment. A part of him not so long ago might have been a bit disgusted with his actions here and how quickly and brutally he would kill these creatures.
But the truth is that he had become accustomed to dealing out death. You couldn't distract yourself with things like morality when you are facing down your enemy, if you know them or not you need to face the threat ahead of you with every intent to win by any means necessary. It was a lesson Urahara and Zangetsu had drilled into his head, and something he had forgotten for a time.
He was not saying he had no mercy, that he would not spare someone's life if it came down to it, but in situations like these he had to forgo morality. The Centaur were a cannibalistic race that killed any and all that crossed their paths, and held within them no reason or willingness to show mercy. Having any sort of compassion or second thoughts when it came to killing them would only lead to further death, only that it would be the victims of these beasts that would suffer that fate instead of them.
"Here they come." Ichigo muttered aloud, another wave of centaur was coming.
But before they could get close a strong wind blew in from behind him and cleared away the smoke, what followed the wind was a hail of arrows. The Centaur were cut down before they could reach him, and those that tried to run didn't get far before more arrows rained down from on high. Looking up he saw several Hippogryphs flying just under the canopy, with a rider and bowman on their backs.
"You certainly live up to the legends that follow in your wake." Master Thal'darah said, strolling into the clearing with a group of Sentinels behind him.
"Most of it is probably just to screw with me." Ichigo replied, he knew for a fact that the Sentinels at Feathermoon Stronghold had made up a few rumors about him.
Some of them were not flattering, most of it revolved around the fact he had tried to teach them CPR during the short time he stayed at the fortress. It devolved into teasing him and the fact he could bring the dead back to life through the kiss of life. Made even worse when Anaesia basically sprouted off crap about how he had stolen her purity with his lips.
After all the crap he went through to save her and she does that to him.
"I am certain there is a grain of truth amongst the rabble, and this scene certainly matches with what I have heard." Thal'darah said, nodding his head, clearly impressed with the results. "I am glad that this turned out well, unlike that incident with the pit and you hanging precariously over it."
Ichigo grimaced at the reminder, that along with all the hurtful things Iyeana had said to him, how dare she insinuate that he was an idiot that didn't know how to get himself out of difficult situations. Always chiding him for his random acts of heroism, especially when they somehow don't work out in her eyes, when they actually work, she doesn't say a thing. Nothing, just a nod or hum, not like he cared either way, but she was always on his ass when he seemingly screwed up.
"She just said that because she was annoyed with me." Ichigo replied, waving off his words.
"As was I, you certainly have your moments where your actions cause us nothing but grief and frustration." Thal'darah replied, frowning slightly.
Ichigo looked at him, he knew there was some underlying meaning to his words. It clicked after a second, was he still hung up over the fact he slugged him when he woke up from that nightmare he had after he used his Bankai in Ethel Rethor? Was this guy seriously holding a grudge right now?
"God, it's always something with you people, can't do anything without it being held against me." Ichigo said.
"You struck me with no provocation." Thal'darah replied, he actually said it.
"Hey, I said sorry for that, don't hold a grudge alright, otherwise you are no different than the rest of those jack asses on the peak." Ichigo said, he was certain his delivery was just as insincere as the apology he had given way back when he had actually sucker punched the Archdruid.
He thought that because the way the Druids face seemed to contort made it clear he was bottling up his emotions rather than letting them go. Ichigo would have loved to keep this going, see how long it took for him to explode. It almost reminded him of the rapport he had with his friends back home, along with some of Captains, but decided against it.
"So, with these guys gone what do we do now?" Ichigo asked.
"We move down the gorge and towards the Charred Valley, we pick off any Centaur that remain in the region." Thal'darah stated.
"I suppose we are flying then?" Ichigo asked.
"Correct, to reach there by foot would take two days, and we cannot waste time, not when the summit is still underway. Once we have cleared the Centaur up to the Charred Valley, we will converge on Farwatcher's Glen and move for Sun Rock Retreat." Thal'darah said, turning and beckoning Ichigo to follow.
"When do we leave?" Ichigo asked.
"We will be leaving immediately, if we must fight through the night we shall." Thal'darah replied.
Ichigo didn't offer any complaint, this was a serious matter after all and they couldn't waste time talking and deliberating. In a way it was something he respected about the Night Elves, despite living for so long and having centuries if not millennia ahead of their lives they react to threats swiftly.
He had only just been given enough time to see the central tree of the grove, it had been converted into what looks like a watchtower. It always intrigued him how the Night Elves could manipulate plants and trees and convert them into homes. But given their close ties to nature and the kinds of things they can do with it maybe it wasn't so surprising they could do at least that much.
They departed within a few minutes, not even waiting for a thank you from the Druids they rescued from the Centaur. In the sky once again they moved south-west, flying above the gorge and out of sight. Hunting for more Centaur.
Farwatch Glen
Six hours in and night was on the cusp of taking hold of the sky, the moon and what remaining light from the horizon gave them just enough light to keep an eye on things. But you really couldn't say that they were blind, the Night Elves had excellent night vision, being able to see nearly as clearly as a normal man could see during the day.
They had flown the entire way to the Valley, cutting down small groups of Centaur and finally finding a large encampment not halfway between the Valley's entrance and the Grove. It wasn't a large camp either, but given that they bore the same sigil as the raiders from earlier made it clear that these bastards were the centaurs they were looking for.
They swooped in and laid waste to the camp.
A short and sweet affair. Now they had reached the Valley, and just like last time Ichigo grimaced at the horrid state it was in. The trees were blackened and the ground just as dead, as if a massive fire had run through the region.
In truth when he had asked Adelina, she had told them that the Valley had become as such because of stray elementals that had begun to spread into the region. Mostly earth elementals and a few stray fire ones, oddly enough they came before the Breach began, even before the Druids had woken from their slumber four years ago.
He had wondered if this had been a sort of precursor to the Breach, an early warning that Maraudon becoming active and volatile. Or it could have just shown that the Terramok was not closing all the gaps to the elemental planes as so believed. Either case showed that even with the Breach sealed it was possible they might be dealing with elemental threats in the future.
Eventually they arrived at the glen, a small little outpost situated on a high cliff that gave a clear view of the entire valley and even into the Desolace. He was certain he could see some marble structures just on the horizon, that likely was Sargeron.
"We staying here for the night?" Ichigo asked, turning from the Valley and to Thal'darah, who nodded his head.
"In the morning we depart to Sun Rock Retreat, meet with the envoys and move back up the mountain." Thal'darah stated, turning to a Sentinel and speaking with her quietly.
Ichigo didn't need any more than that, and instead just guided his mount to the stables and moved off to find somewhere to sleep. He reached into his pocket and found the sleeping powder; he went through the motions and made the tea. But this time he didn't drown the tea, instead he hesitated, he had been doing that ever since he had his first solid night of sleep.
The dreams he has been having, have not been the most pleasant. Reliving nightmares and horrible experiences, ones that tore at his heart and filled his veins with ice, he could barely hold back a scream or lash out when he wakes up in the morning. For all his complaining about his lack of sleep for the last few weeks he found himself welcoming the lack of proper rest.
"I hate it that I remember this, would have been better if they just faded like every dream." Ichigo muttered, drowning his drink and falling back onto his bed.
He would deal with this, they were just dreams. Nothing more, nothing less. Whatever that thing was trying to do, it wasn't going to work. He wasn't going to let it get to him.
Sun Rock Retreat
The Tauren village was quite quaint, small in some respects and looking only able to house maybe a few dozen people. But with the kind of terrain these mountains have it is not surprising that they are not able to support a large population, he had nary seen an animal or any form of natural resources that could support a large population.
He had heard that there were large spiders here. Some as large as the very Hippogryph he was riding, that was all he needed to know. Especially after he learned that these spiders were a staple food for the Druids on the peak and a delicacy, one that he had unknowingly sampled on his arrival.
Caren had puked.
He just pretended it was like chicken or tuna, because it tasted like both of them at the same time. It wasn't so bad, until he kept reminding himself he was eating spiders. Yeah. Not exactly something you get used to.
"Welcome."
A Tauren approached, greeting Thal'darah, large for his race and wearing a loose brown toga.
"Maggran Earthbinder. Lord Fallowmere sends his regards." Thal'darah said, giving a nod to the leader of this village. "We have come to escort the ambassadors up to the peak. As they prepared."
"Yes, please, come, rest your mounts and yourselves." Maggran said, gesturing to a large tent off to the side.
Entering they could smell some incense burning along with some tea, it was actually a very aromatic fragrance that soothed his nerves. He looked around and he recognized one of the attendees, it was Hamuul Runetotem, the Druid that had helped him in the Desolace some weeks ago.
"Yo. Hamuul." Ichigo said, strolling up to the Druid.
"Ah. Ichigo. You look well, much better than when we last saw each other in Ethel Rethor." Hamuul said, gesturing to the mat beside him to sit.
Ichigo did so, receiving a cup of tea from one of the Druids beside him. He nodded in thanks and took a sip, ginger with a hint of a few fruits he could recognize, very well balanced. Maybe he should see about getting a recipe from them, these guys know how the make some good tea.
"How have things been in the Desolace since we left?" Ichigo asked.
"Tensions are high, with the Centaur causing strife across Feralas and Thousand Needles many of our people are trapped. Fighting off the hordes of Centaur are beyond our means, not even the aid of the Warsong and Grimtotem have been able to turn the tide." Hamuul said.
"Have you considered relocating?" Ichigo asked.
"Many do not wish to leave their homes; they have already lost one homeland to the Centaur and do not wish to lose another." Hamuul replied. "Some are too proud to depart, but even if we do decide to leave, we have no place that could support us. Mulgore for all its splendor cannot support our people in their entirety."
That was an understatement, considering most of the territories he has seen that the Horde have almost all of them are barren. Thousand Needles was nothing more than a dry canyon filled with cannibalistic marauders, carrion birds and a few stray predators that fed off each other to survive. The Barrens was worse, it lived up to its name and then some, a massive wasteland that had as many oasis's as a Tauren had fingers on his hand, Durotar was supposed to be just as bad.
Some orcs have settled in Dustwallow Marsh, a few tribes and groups, but they were far and few between. Making due with what resources they could in the harsh swampland. Truth be told the only places that the Horde had relatively anyplace that was lively was Mulgore, but as Hamuul said it couldn't support such a large population.
"What about the Desolace?" Ichigo asked.
"It does not have the resources that could sustain our people." Hamuul replied. "Even with Ethel Rethor acting as a port we would never be able to feed and survive in such a harsh region."
Ichigo wondered if Codexia had informed anyone besides him of the little snippet about the Emerald Dream and the Great Trees. Maybe not, guess she was riding on the hopes that he would know what to do with it. Perhaps keeping this to himself was a smart move, until the right time came, perhaps in Moonglade.
"Ever thought of getting the Night Elves to help, what about the Circle, isn't there someone in the group that could help you?" Ichigo asked.
"I am afraid not, for I am not a member of such an order." Hamuul replied.
Ichigo blinked.
"What?"
He was certain this guy was part of the Cenarian Circle, that he was a member, he recalled him saying as such. When they first met Hamuul had said that he was part of the circle, so why wasn't he now?
"The Tauren were never accepted into the Circle, our people have always been ostracized by the night elves. My affiliation with them is loose, only due to my apprenticeship beneath Malfurion Stormrage was I given an audience at this summit." Hamuul clarified.
"I thought you told me you were part of the order, you said you were an envoy to the Circle." Ichigo asked, he needed to ask just to confirm it was true.
"I am afraid not; I have little to no ties with the Circle. My affiliation with it is mostly unacknowledged and only accepted when the circumstances call for it." Hamuul replied.
From the sounds of it the reason he was an envoy for the Circle at the time was because the elves likely wanted him to report back to them about the Highborne after they negotiate.
"I thought all Druids were at least affiliated. But I guess because you're a Tauren that means that you don't get any of that." Ichigo replied, typical racial bullshit going on right now. "Does this have anything to do with the Blood Feud I have heard about a few times?"
"Indeed, it does." Hamuul replied. "The cause falls with Zaetar, for his actions in the Desolace are what led many of our people to turn from the path of Druidism."
He explained that when the Desolace was destroyed by Theradras a thousand years ago it was Zaetar that was blamed. At least at first, when all life was stripped from the land many had hoped that the Druids of Keepers of the Grove could aid them and restore the land lost. But when Zaetar came and did nothing, instead aiding the creature that had stolen their lands, along with creating he Centaur it had twisted their beliefs.
Many had already felt spurned by the Night Elves constant insults and belittling of their race and believed that they had launched an attack against them. That the actions of Zaetar was nothing but a declaration of war, from there things had descended into violence. While the fighting had only gone on for a few years it had ended with the Tauren taking exodus from the region and trying to find a new home to call their own.
It left a bitter pill to swallow for the Tauren, one that lasted for centuries, and forced them away from Druidism out of spite.
"I take it that you want that to change." Ichigo asked, he could tell from Hamuul's storytelling that he didn't particularly like how the story went and how it ended.
"Yes. Time has given us perspective, and without the hatred of our ancestors guiding us we can see clearly that we were in the wrong to think ill of the Keeper of the Grove. He was seduced and corrupted by that vile creature, and we strayed from the path that only until now has been lost to us." Hamuul said.
"But the Night Elves likely won't give a damn about that, given that they hold onto their grievances like it is their own beating heart." Ichigo said, receiving a nod from the Druid. "Maybe the ones at the peak wouldn't do much, but there might be others that can help."
Ichigo knew that going to the peak would be pointless, those asshats wouldn't give a damn about Hamuul and his wish for peace, only things on their minds was the desire for war. Instead it would be better for Hamuul to actually go to someone who could give him and his people something. Something that would not only validate them, but also give them reason to make peace and have the Horde follow through.
A smirk came to his lips, a plan was formulating in his mind, there might be just a way for him to pull this off without any issues. But he needed to do this right, if he could meet with Remulus he was certain he could get the guy to agree.
"Hamuul, instead of heading up the mountain how about you come with me to Moonglade?"
Thal'darah Lodge
The wounded have been tended to and now she was left to do some minor chores around the outpost. Adelina didn't need to convince herself that she felt better for being here, away from the peak and not in the presence of all those that despised her.
A part of her knew that such hatred was to be expected, deserved even, but she didn't wish to be reminded of that. To be away from all that torment and with people she cared about, and who cared about her, who did not know all of her past and the mistakes that came from them. Ichigo and Caren, they were the truest friends she could ever have, and ones she hoped to never lose.
Yet a part of her dreaded the idea of them discovering her family's legacy, of the past that had turned all against her. For it was that knowledge that had driven many away and turned what kindness they might have towards indifference and hate. Even Elyssa who had welcomed her in the beginning was not immune, for she spoke of still being a friend Adelina knew she thought the same as all the others.
Would Ichigo look at her the same way?
"You have a talent."
Adelina turned, finding Sentinel Mistress Geleneth standing behind her.
"It is nothing, just something I learned from my mother." Adelina replied, looking down at her work, she was currently sewing together some fabric for the Sentinels, mostly armor and some sheaths. She actually did a lot of this back at the fortress, even teaching it to a few of the Sentinels.
"I was referring to your healing, you certainly have great power if you can heal so many by yourself. But that is understandable, given that you were able to rouse a Great Tree from its slumber." Geleneth said.
"I am… not that mighty." Adelina said, deflecting it away from herself.
Her powers were not that spectacular, how could someone like her have any talent? Her past was marred with so much wrong that even what kind of power she wielded was mediocre, fitting, for someone like her.
"You allow their words to influence you too easily, if there was any truth to what they say you would not have been able to do half of what you have already done" Geleneth said. "Stop letting their words and hatred blind you, your mother and father would never have wanted you to suffer like this."
"But I have to… there is no one else to shoulder the blame anymore." Adelina said, this was her penance, the only way for her to make sure that their names were no longer remembered for their mistakes.
"I see that my words will not reach you, but perhaps his will." Geleneth replied. "Have you told your friends? About your family, about their past?"
"I… cannot." Adelina said, the idea of telling them, about her father and mother and the mistakes they made nearly drove her mad.
Like so many others they would turn on her, the idea of them turning their backs to her was so painful she did not even wish to think on it. They had been the only people in her life that had given her hope of a better future, one where she would be free from all the pain and misery. That when she redeemed her family in her people's eyes that she would not have to fear not telling them.
"Do you think he will hate you? Loath you for what your father's actions caused?" Geleneth asked. "You treat him to much like all the other fools on that peak, they are blinded by hate and you by your fear. Do you honestly think for a moment he would ever hate you? He would ever want to see you get hurt?"
Adelina thought for a moment, of all the times he was there for her, protecting and reassuring her. He was the one person she knew she could rely on above all others, one that would keep her safe and never let harm come to her. He was her savior, in more ways than one, and no matter how much she feared he would renounce her, she knew he would protect her.
"No… he wouldn't…" Adelina realized, for a moment she wanted to laugh at how foolish she had been for believing Ichigo would leave her. He wasn't like that, he wasn't like anyone else, he was different, always going against the norm.
That is what made him so special, so powerful in her eyes, because he bowed to no one's rules but his own. He was strong, he was kind, and never faltered in his path, through pain and doubt he always kept moving forward. She wished to be like him, to be as strong as him.
"I will tell him when we return to Theramore." Adelina said, for the first time she wasn't worried about telling him.
Maybe… maybe he could help her.
"What in Elune's name…" Geleneth spoke aloud.
Adelina looked up from her work, following the Sentinel's gaze, and froze as she laid eyes upon the one person, she had hoped she would never see again. Master Fahnelor was there, with him were several of his students, walking towards her quickly.
She dropped what was in her hands and quickly rose, bowing her head in greeting and tried to fight out a few words.
"Master Fahnelor…"
She didn't finish, the hand that struck her cheek knocked her to the ground, leaving her dazed and frozen. Fear took hold, the painful sting of where she had been struck didn't seem to register, her body shivering as she tries to hold back terrified tears.
"What is this!?" Geleneth yelled, stepping in front of Adelina. "What cause do you have to strike her?"
"Cause enough to see it repeated a hundred-fold." Fahnelor growled, his eyes looking past the Sentinels and focusing on Adelina. "I come to take her back to the Peak, and have her answer for her crimes."
"Go fetch Lord Fallowmere." Geleneth ordered, sending off a nearby sentinel to collect the lord of these mountains.
"Do not stand in our way." Fahnelor said, narrowing his eyes at the Sentinel Mistress.
"I will not allow you to cause any more harm to this girl, your senseless disregard for our peoples ways and inability to quell your own rage is testament to your own failings as a Druid and a Kaldorei. Nothing you say will make me step back as you harm a frightened girl unable to defend herself from your persecution." Geleneth said, not stepping down in the face of the Archdruid.
"This goes beyond her father's crimes; this is solely her own failing. She is to be tried for treason." Fahnelor spoke, calling it out for the entire outlook to hear. "This girl, aided the Highborne of Ethel Rethor, delivering the city into the hands of the Horde as well. And worst of all, planting and growing a sacred Great Tree within the very heart of their city for them to use."
Geleneth gritted her teeth, ready to speak but another spoke.
"That is enough." Fallowmere said, stepping forward, giving a single glance towards Adelina before focusing his glare upon the Archdruid. "I have tolerated you and your acolytes for a long time, but I am not going to tolerate violence against our own people in my outpost. Do not raise another hand or take another step towards her."
"You have no authority in this, step aside Lord of Stonetalon."
"My authority over these mountains is absolute, even the peak you dwell upon is not beyond my control and reach. Whatever foolishness you have dredged up just to vent your frustrations I will not allow to be permitted." Fallowmere said, flaunting his authority in the face of the mad Druid, but it did not seem to deter him.
"Your authority means nothing in the face of those who sent me. I am here under the authority of Archdruid Fandral Staghelm and Priestess Tyrande Whisperwind!" Fahnelor said, presenting a scroll to the Lord of Stonetalon.
Fallowmere stole away the parchment and skimmed through its contents, narrowing his eyes as he read through the missive and its instructions. How is it possible that they discovered this? Perhaps it was Shandris, having been present when Adelina created the Great Tree and informing her of the situation. This did not bode well for the young Druid, she seemed to realize it as well, for her trembling increased noticeably.
Their worst fears were coming true.
"Take her." Fahnelor ordered, gesturing for his acolytes to take Adelina.
Fallowmere would love nothing more than to stop them, but he could do nothing but watch. This was an order from the Archdruid and Priestess themselves, to go against this order would do more harm than good and throw away whatever power he had that could help the girl.
He watched as she was dragged away, weeping as she was pulled back towards the very peak she considered a hell. Standing there, unable to do anything, he cursed knowing that he should not have allowed her to remain so close to the peak, he should have sent her ahead with the others.
"Can we do nothing?" Geleneth asked.
Fallowmere knew she was unwilling to let Adelina depart, especially in the hands of people that are not above violence to satiate their anger.
"The orders are absolute, I cannot defy them, not unless I wish to lose what power I have to keep her safe." Fallowmere said.
As little as he knew of Adelina it was Geleneth who bayed him to help her, for the Sentinel Mistress was a close friend of the young Druid's mother. He did it out of respect, but a part of him came to realize that protecting her would clear his own consciousness. Having realized the kind of torment she endured upon the peak he could not allow her to suffer so unjustly at the hands of her instructors.
"Sent word to Sun Rock Retreat, get Ichigo back up here now." Fallowmere ordered, he may not be able to do anything but perhaps the boy can save her.
Sun Rock Retreat
Ichigo had to admit this place was living up to its name, mostly it being a retreat. While there was little here in the way of actual things to do other than meditate and hunt for big spiders, he had to say this place had a certain charm to it as a vacation spot. Being able to sit back and enjoy the scenery and atmosphere, let you mind drift away and not have to worry about anything.
The Peak was similar, if you get rid of the annoying tenants.
But here the locals were friendly and down to earth, despite being literal walking bulls the Tauren were some of the nicest people you could meet. Chad would have a field day here; he would get along with so many of these guys.
"If this plan of yours is a success than I have no doubt that peace is a possibility." Hamuul said, smiling as he offered Ichigo some more tea.
Taking a sip, he found it had a different flavor than before, dammit he needed to get the recipes from them. He could drink a different type of tea every day for the rest of the year and likely not have gone through all the different concoctions they had made. That would have to come later, for now he needed to secure peace.
"Yeah, I just need to see about convincing Shandris to get some support for the big move." Ichigo replied.
They had come to a mutual agreement, one that Ichigo was happy to note that Hamuul was keen on seeing accomplished. Why wouldn't he? It was literally going to solve all the problems his people were having. Not only that it was definitely going to get the Horde off the war path and even open up a better relationship between the Tauren and Night Elves, one he knew that would be kept.
"Are you certain you can accomplish such a feat? Shandris has pulled back her forced to Eldre'thalas and Feathermoon Stronghold since the attacks began." Hamuul said.
Ichigo had heard, just now from the Tauren and not so long ago from Shandris. She had said that her forces were mostly attempting to keep the Centaur away from critical areas that they couldn't risk them taking. The Dream Bough being one, along with a few areas of importance around Feralas, but they had also had to deal with Ogres, Gnolls and Yetis rampaging across the region after being displaced.
He knew she had little in the way of soldiers, most of them were making sure Eldre'thalas stayed in their hands. Reinforcements from the Ashenvale had been delayed yet again, mostly out of fears of inciting the horde into action along with recent threats from a group known as the Shadow Council that seems to be targeting several members of Cenarius' family.
"I think I can help, Shandris has worked with your people before and I am certain I can get some help from Theramore if we need it. Hell, I'll come along and help if I have to." Ichigo said.
"You will certainly have our gratitude, not only for what you will do but have done already." Hamuul said.
"Don't care about that, what I really want is to end this with no bloodshed, along with settling things as peacefully as possible." Ichigo replied, he didn't want to be thanked just yet, or at all, right now he just wanted there to be less bodies on the ground. "Just give me a recipe for that tea and we will call it even."
He wanted to play this off smoothly, he knows how volatile this situation is and if anything goes wrong it is practically fucked beyond all recovery. So, he had to make sure nothing bad happened, at least on his end of the field, in the very near future.
"I will proceed to the summit regardless, see if I can negotiate with the Druids there, it is unlikely anything will come of this but it is still possible to delay further conflict. I will also ask Baine to try and keep Thrall and the Warsong away from Ethel Rethor for a few more weeks." Hamuul said.
That was good, he didn't know how long it would take to meet Tyrande or how long he would need to convince her to let him into Moonglade. From there it was negotiating with Remulus and seeing about getting Hamuul into the glade so they could finalize the agreement.
"Thanks for helping with this, you would not believe…" Ichigo started, before he saw Ebru rushing up to him.
"Ichigo! There has been a development." She said, from how concerned she looked he had a dreadful feeling in his stomach that something truly bad was about to happen.
"What's going on?"
"Adelina has been taken back to the Peak, Fahnelor said that she is being tried for treason. Fallowmere says they left early this morning; he is taking her to the Peak to face judgement." Ebru said.
Ichigo felt himself go rigid, knowing those people he knew exactly what kind of punishment they would meet out if they had their way. He didn't wait for a moment, he leapt to his feet and moved for his Hippogryph, tearing the reins from the post, he mounted up and took off. He had to get back, he could waste another second.
Stonetalon Peak
It wasn't the best turnout, but Caren wasn't going to complain. Getting any of them in a room together to discuss their plans was a sign of her skills as a negotiator, although she couldn't claim all the credit. Codexia had done just as much to bring them into the fold. It would have been better if Naralax and Thal'darah were here, they could give some weight to this negotiation.
Yesterday they had revealed the nature of the Great Trees and their connection to the Emerald Dream, only to the Keepers and a few that had acknowledged their desire for peace. Some were taking it better than others, yet all around most of them were looking at things negatively rather than positively.
"If you help restore the Desolace to its former glory you can bridge peace with the Tauren, it is well known that the Desolace was once a very important ancestral homeland for them. Returning it to its former splendor would greatly improve relations between the Night Elves and Tauren, it would more than likely be enough to bring peace." Codexia said, looking up to Gatekeeper Kordurus and Keeper Albagorm, the two Keepers of the Grove.
They seemed receptive to the idea, at least in the good it can do. But their students were not so receptive of the idea, using the power of the Dream to hold back the Elemental Planes was not something they took lightly. Some even calling this effect nothing more than a fluke that they are trying to capitalize on rather than having clear intent.
"Perhaps so, but that is not always the case with the Horde. Peace was made after the fall of Hyjal, yet it lasted barely a few months, past grievances have always divided us on finding mutual ground. No matter if they are recent or millennia old." Archdruid Orenrian Skyspyre said, he was one of their more vocal allies of the Druids but he did raise good points.
The tension between the Horde and Night Elves was never something to take lightly, there was a good deal of hostility between the two. In this case the Archdruid was referencing his own people's unwillingness to let go of the past and let bygones be bygones. After all it was said that the Sentinels were the ones that had started attacking the Warsong Clan after the war to avenge the death of Cenarius.
But there were even hints that the hostility to the Tauren remained, along with the old prejudices towards other races outside their own. The Night Elves had not been out of isolation for long, four years was not something to be considered a considerable time, especially for those as long lived as elves. They held onto their culture, especially with how they treated outsiders and other races.
"That would involve having Sentinels present in the area, given the current state of affairs between the Horde and Sentinels at the moment any further military movements will be seen as an act of aggression. If we move Sentinels into the region, we cannot police it, if we cannot police it than the Druids are at risk from possible attack." Elandrina Skycloud said, she was against any plan that didn't involve a contingency with the Sentinels, she was unwilling to allow anyone set foot in the Desolace, so long as there was adequate protection for the Druids who would be relegated to restoring the land.
"Military involvement is a must, the Horde has been quite agitated since we stuck our claim in Feralas, if we do not do this correctly, we will be looking at conflict. Not so different than what transpires in the Gulch in central Ashenvale." Eraelas Shadestriker stated, he was on the path of using military force to at least prevent further conflict or at least halt any aggression with the Horde.
Each of them was a must at the moment, for while they each had some doubt that this could be settled peacefully and may appear pessimistic about their odds, they were the only ones they could trust. Caren had dealt with people like this before, her father was a shrewd man and knew how to manipulate, a trick she picked up for him. And one she was going to use to the best of her abilities.
"Conflict may not be something we can avoid, but we can always put the right foot forward to show we will not be the instigators. If we show ourselves to be just as vile and bloodthirsty for battle as our enemy, how can we say for certain we are in the right." Caren said.
The elves were a proud people, they liked to show that off more than you might realize. Sure, there were a few exceptions but it was a rule of thumb that when it came to relations between other races that the other often thought themselves better than their counterparts. If there was anything, she could recall from the teachings regarding the High Elves of Silvermoon it was that they were a bunch of arrogant asses that thought too highly of themselves.
Instead of pointing out their flaws, like someone she knew, point out their better qualities and reinforce them and make them think that sticking to that is better for their image rather than going to war. If she was going to keep them on her side and get them to see things her way, she needed to get them in the right mind where they agree because its suites their interests. Politics was more about personal views and getting others to see them, making them put themselves forward because they suit their beliefs rather than what is politically or morally correct.
"The orcs naturally have begun to advance into the region because they feel threatened, if we retaliate before they do, we will be the warmongers. While it may seem prudent it will only show that not only are we as they say we are, that will throw our own honor and integrity away by becoming the aggressors." Caren said, smiling as she looked up at the Druids who seem to contemplate her words.
She was making a dent, a little more coaxing and she would have them.
But not everything went according to plan, the moment things started to go right for them something threw a wrench into the works. Immediately a group of Druids strolled into the chamber, to her irritation it was the rest of the Archdruids along with their acolytes and disciples, terrific, coming along to just screw with them.
At the head was Fahnelor, the angry looking bastard glanced their way, holding back a grimace of irritation before he settled his gaze on the other Archdruids.
"Good, you are here, we can begin then." Fahnelor said.
"Master Fahnelor, what is the purpose of this gathering?" Albagorm asked, the long face of the Keeper was creased with a frown.
"I am here to reveal the truth of a heinous crime, one involving that despicable spawn." Fahnelor said, looking up at his keepers and speaking very respectfully even as he insulted Adelina.
Caren scowled, annoyed that this bastard of a Druid was here again to try and tear down her friend, she didn't know what could have driven him to this rage but she honestly didn't care. It was obviously Adelina's father that had earned these Druids ire, and she knew first hand that no one inherited their parent sins. This man obviously needed to take the hint and stop trying.
"It had been revealed to me that Adelina Oakwalker, is a traitor to the Cenarian Circle and the Kaldorei." Fahnelor said.
Caren went still when she heard that, her mind working at speeds unparalleled as she deciphered where this accusation could have been conjured up from. Then she recalled Fallowmere's warning several days past, they had discovered her involvement with the Great Tree in Ethel Rethor.
"She created a Great Tree within Ethel Rethor, the very city our ancient enemy now makes their home, who have allied with the Horde and their wild elemental spirits. Because of her the Horde now has access not only to that city but also to the Emerald Dream." Fahnelor said, turning and speaking to his fellow Archdruids.
"You drudge up these crimes from thin air, we all know you only seek to belittle and harm her for your own selfish whims. I will not tolerate this foolish attempt to slander her against Archdruid." Quintis said, clearly angry at the charges being levelled against Adelina. "You have no authority to even charge her, what right do you have to even level such an accusation against an innocent girl who suffers enough at the hands of you and your lackeys."
Fahnelor did not seem perturbed or insulted, instead he just sneered and produced a scroll.
"These charges do not come from me, but from Fandral Staghelm and Tyrande Whisperwind." Fahnelor said. "And if you must hear a confession, then I shall give it to you."
He turned to the crowd, and with a single gesture they parted, and soon two Druid came forward with someone being dragged in between them. It took a moment for Caren to register who it was, and the moment she did a horrified feeling crept through her.
Adelina was tossed to the ground, her cloths torn and dirtied, as she rose, she could see the bruises on her arms. Sitting on her haunches she finally looked up, her face was bruised and bloodied, tears staining her cheeks. A look of pure despair and pain was expressed, and Caren felt herself unable to do anything but stare in shock at the state her friend had been left in.
"What… what have you done!?" Quintis roared, charging forward to the side of his student.
The shout had been enough to knock Caren from her reverie as she rushed to Adelina's side. Kneeling down next to her she tried to coax some words out of her, but she didn't respond, only continuing to cry.
"I have delivered the lightest of punishments deserve upon one such as her, she is truly her father's daughter, worse even." Fahnelor said, glowering down at Adelina who didn't even respond as she continued to sob.
"You have stepped too far this time Fahnelor! I will not stand for this!" Quintis yelled, rising to his feet and glaring at the Archdruid.
"She did not create the Great Trees!" Codexia stepped forward. "I did so, I created all of them across the Desolace, I am the one who also created the connection between the Emerald Dream with them. Do not level blame on her when it is clearly my fault!"
"Do not attempt to defend her, these crimes were discovered by Tyrande Whisperwind herself, and we have already confirmed their validity. You waste your breath speaking in her defense." Fahnelor said. "She will be sent to Darnassus to face her punishment at the hands of the Archdruid and High Priestess."
"Then why did you drag her here? She was meant to go to Darnassus you say? But now you have her here on her knees and weeping from the beating you gave her." Codexia shouted, glaring at the Archdruid. "Some vain attempt to meet out punishment yourself? Another attempt to validate that blind stupid hatred of yours! You are a cruel callous bastard, one who delights in torturing those he sees as weaker than himself. You are weak! A coward!"
Fahnelor looked enraged by the comments, looking ready to actually attack Codexia.
"Enough! No further violence will be tolerated here! This sacred peak has served as a place of teaching and meditation, and before me I see it has been tainted by hubris and strife!" Albagorm shouted, the Keeper clearly displeased with this faux trial. "The path that Cenarius set out for all Druids to follow is one of peace and harmony with nature and all its living creatures. Be they sentient or not, never would he condone the harming of another creature, especially for the satisfaction of the one causing harm!"
The keeper levelled his gaze with Fahnelor, who didn't seem to think that the words of the keeper applied to him.
"You have overstepped Fahnelor." Albagorm said, for a moment it took the Archdruid by surprise. "We have made many attempts to stem your violent ways, but like so many occasions our words are met with little results. I have overlooked your actions long enough, as I have the rest of you, this will not stand any longer."
Caren could tell that things would boil over at any moment, Quintis looked ready to attack and Caren didn't know if she should try to stop him or help. But she was never given the chance, someone had just arrived.
"What the hell is going on here?!"
Ichigo stood at the doorway of the den, looking at the assembled Druids and strolling forward with purpose. Some muttering under their breath in their native tongue, others calling for him to depart. But he pushed through and kept moving forward, unwilling to give them a response as he looked for them. When he finally caught sight of them, he turned and made a beeline for them both.
"Adelina. Hey are you…?"
She turned to him, the first voice she had responded to since being dragged here. He went still, eyes widen in shock, unable to do anything but stare in horror at the torment their friend had endured. Caren had no idea what had transfixed him in such terror but it didn't matter, they had to get out of here now.
"Hey, we need to get her out of here." Caren said, grabbing Quintis by the arm and gesturing to Adelina.
Quintis complies after a moment, glaring one last time at Fahnelor, and reaching down for his student and lifting her to her feet. Together they guided her to the exit, but quickly they were blocked by the Druids, unwilling to allow her to leave.
Then they were force aside by shadows, pulsing darkness that rose up and knocked them aside. Caren turned to see Codexia with her hand raised, she was giving them an opening to move, and sent a nod her way. With their escape route secured they fled, moving quickly to make sure that the Druids did not have time to stop them.
"Stop! You cannot take her!" Fahnelor roared.
"They are leaving! You don't get a say in this anymore!" Codexia yelled, coming forward and standing by their side as they moved for the door.
Caren passed Ichigo, he had never taken his eyes of Adelina, his face never losing that horrified expression. What happened to him? What did he see when he looked at her that was so horrible that it robbed him of all sense?
"They may go! I will not bar them from departing. I shall see to speaking to Staghelm myself, and seeing truth to this matter." Albagorm stated.
"How can you defy the words of the Archdruid?" Fahnelor said.
"Your very actions make me question you're the validity of this accusation, for you have done more wrong here in my eyes than she has. I will not tolerate further conflict in this peak, for so long as she remains here your actions and mind are of questionable quality." Albagorm stated, frown deepening as he looked down at the Archdruid.
Caren dragged Adelina from the room, Ichigo had not followed, he was still rooted to the spot. It didn't matter, they had to get her out of here quickly, he could follow after them when he regained his sense.
"That girl's entire existence has done nothing but rob and take the lives of Druids! She was the cause of all the calamities that have befallen this order in the last four years! She is a mistake that should never have been born!"
Fahnelor's shout could be heard down the hall they retreated through. Caren seethed at the words, like a final taunt to Adelina so she could know how low and worthless he thought her to be. A part of her wanted to go back and freeze that bastard in a block of ice.
But when she felt the sudden pressure crash down on top of her, she realized that Fahnelor likely would be dead before she could even consider going back.
Was this a dream?
A nightmare?
What was going on? Why did she look like that? Why was she hurt?
He could barely hear anything, only see the same face that had been haunting his dreams these few days. One of several terrible visions that had taken hold of his mind and torn apart his heart, it had gripped him in fear. Unable to do anything but stand there and watch a tragedy unfold over and over again.
"Stop! You cannot take her!"
"…Look at the pain you were unable to stop…"
The shout barely registered, he could only follow Adelina as she was pulled from the chamber. Something grabbed his arm and tried to speak to him, he didn't register it, all he could focus on was Adelina. The same tears, the same bruises, the same pain and despair on her face as the visions he had seen in his nightmares.
"How can you defy the words of the Archdruid?" Another shout, recognizable, but he paid no mind.
"You turned away from her…"
This cannot be real, it cannot be true. Those dreams, those nightmares that haunted his nights for weeks on end. Only in the last few days had he bore witness to the harrowing images that he did not recall from those many weeks of sleepless nights. He had played them off as nothing more than attempts to wear down his resolve, to test his fortitude and leave him despairing.
He had ignored them, even as they came to him every night, dug into his brain, he cast them aside and never believed they were true.
But were they actually true? Was everything he saw, everything that happened, going to come to pass?
Adelina disappeared around the bend, gone from sight but his mind focused back to that horrible dream. He could not remove that face from his memory, every time he saw Adelina he was reminded of it, reminded of the pain and suffering she had endured. Of those haunting words that whispered in his ear, both taunted and accused him, proving how these visions were not of lucid make believe, but dreams bleeding into reality.
His heart hammered in his chest, fear coursed through his veins and threatened to see them burst as the terror welled inside him. This cannot be real; how can this be real? It shouldn't be real; it was only a dream. If this was true, then did that mean all the other visions he bore witness to were real?
Were his friends and family back home dead? Killed in the war?
Was Caren going to be taken away as well?
Was Anaesia going to die in Eldre'thalas?
Was he going… was he going to kill…
"She is a mistake that should never have been born!"
Clarity came, the fear disappeared, gone was his terror. Ichigo turned from the entryway, his eyes landing on the one who spoke, those familiar hate filled words resounding in his brain. So many times, he heard it, so many times a faceless voice taunted him with those words. He heard it so many times, felt it reverberate through his very bones.
"Her only mistake… was being born…"
Over and over again, he heard it, saw the pain those words inflicted. He finally had found it. He could put a face to the insults, to the threats, to the mocking. It was right in front of him the entire time, within arms reach more times than he could count.
Kill it.
The one that made her suffer.
Kill it!
The one that hurt her.
Kill it!
He deserved to die!
KILL IT!
"King! Don't! It's trying to…!"
Ichigo saw only red, he stepped forward, with purpose he marched up to the Druid, pushing aside anyone that got in his way. The Archdruid turned to face him, sneering as he usually did, but Ichigo could not hear the insult on his lips, all was deaf to him. Within reach he drew back his fist and punched the bastard right in the face, he sailed back several meters and landed heavily on the ground.
There was silence, even if he could not hear anything he knew, the shouting had died down and the hollering had ended. But he wasn't finished, he would offer no words, he could not speak of express the hatred and rage he felt burning in his breast. It could only be shown, through the agony he was going to inflict on this Archdruid.
This monster needed to suffer, to feel pain like he never felt before, he needed to feel the same pain she felt right before he died. He kneeled down, grabbing him him the scuff of his robed, pulling his forward and prepared to strike again.
Something retrained him, wrapping around his legs and arms, vines constricting around his body. Shouts reached his ears but he could not hear them, he wanted only to kill this bastard. He pulled against his restrains, feeling some snap and break off as he applied more effort to freeing himself. He released his spiritual pressure, forcing it outwards, pushing away what held him back, he would not be denied this.
"Stop this! Cease this hostility!"
Ichigo felt his power boil over, his spiritual pressure releasing in waves of unrestrained mighty. Most were blown back by the force, some remained on their feet, attempting to retrain him, he brushed them all aside. They would not get in his way, and with the last of the vines torn away, he would begin with his retribution.
He raised his fists and beat into him with all the strength he could, it would not be the last blow he delivered, many more followed. The sickening crunch and pulp of flesh reached his ears, the shouts of many attempting to halt his rampage went unheard. All he could focus on was the one beneath him, who he continued to beat raw and bloody, tearing into him and showing how weak he was.
Vines once more constricted around his body, powerful winds and energy struck him as he was pulled away. He snarled, roaring in anger, he was not done. That bastard deserved more, to suffer for all he had done to her. He turned and glared at those around him, all those Druids that had stood aside and done nothing to stop his cruelty, to reprimand him for all he had done. Some of them had joined him in fact, stood beside him as he tormented and belittled Adelina.
They were no different, just as vulgar and evil as he. These Druids were as guilty as him, they deserved no respect, no mercy from him. He would deliver said judgement personally, right after he freed himself and killed that bastard.
Ripping his arm free he reached for Zangetsu, grasping the hilt he felt his power flourish more wildly, tearing apart his restraints. He turned and swung wide, his spiritual pressure responding to his command, those that tried to hold him back were cast aside. They would not interfere; he would finish with him and then they would get their turn.
Fahnelor had risen to his feet, delirious and in pain, but Ichigo did not give him a chance to recover his wits. Stepping forward he grabbed the man by the hems of his robes and threw him, tossing him into the far wall. A burst of Shunpo later and he was before him, fist cocked back and sent forward with a sickening crunch. The nose broke, or it had already been broken and shattered further, he did not care.
As he fell Ichigo picked him up, holding him there and poising Zangetsu over his heart. It was time he died, he deserves nothing less, for all the pain, all the misery he caused, he deserved it all. For making her so afraid, making her tremble when he was near, for harming her whenever he pleased. This was going to be the moment he repaid him for every slight he made against her, and there was no more deserving of a punishment.
"Don't leave me…"
It felt like cold water over the brain, coursing through his bones and sending shivers through his being. He stopped, surprised by the sudden sensation, he had no idea where it had come from but the effect was immediate. The rage had not disappeared, it had calmed and become unfocused, it remained but some clarity appeared and gave himself context.
"Cease this! I will not tolerate further conflict within these burrows!"
Ichigo turned to the keeper, he looked ready to fight. Looking back to Fahnelor Ichigo scowled, struggling to decide if he should continue with his execution of heed the Keeper's words. So many thoughts went through his head, he couldn't think straight, but someone did that for him.
"You continue with this, if you kill him, it will only do more harm than good. If you did this out of anger for Adelina than spare him for her sake as well." Kordurus said.
That was only thing that sobered him from his drunken rage, if it was for her sake he could not refuse. He lowered Zangetsu, released the Archdruid and left him to collapse to the ground, he turned to see the other occupants. They were not harmed, maybe a little shocked and frazzled but unharmed, he didn't care really.
If they were wary of him that was what he wanted, he wanted them to know the consequences of what they did to her. If they do it again, even made an attempt, he wouldn't stop next time.
"I am taking Adelina back to Theramore Isle, if you come after her, try to harm her again. I'll come back here, and I'll fucking kill all of you." Ichigo said, raising his Zanpakutō and pointing it to each and every one of them.
He walked to the exit, glaring at anyone ahead of him, none barred his way. They knew not to cross him now, they better tell that to everyone else, because he was not going to let anything hurt her again. They knew the score, and if anyone else made an attempt he would do the same. He would take on the whole world and make them know never to go after the people he cared about.
This is going to end badly, we all know that. If you look at this objectively you all know that what ichigo did isn't going to earn him any favours. But who knows what might happen. Until next time.
