Hello everyone, it is finally here, this chapter.

I have to admit this chapter gave me some trouble, getting one major segment of it done was not easy and I had to go through several rewrites. But this had come out alright in my opinions, in the end I have to thank Halphas Greed for his help on doing this chapter. It really was difficult to know if I was doing it right without someone from the outside looking in.

But it is here, the chapter that will reveal Adelina's past and also her reasons for being a Druid. I hope it lives up to the hype, this is something I planned out years ago, I do pray it is enough.

Apart from that I would like to inform that I plan to finish this arc in about two more chapters, after that I plan to focus on Are We Alone for a few weeks and then move back to Transcendence again. I say this because I am doing a major rewrite of AWA and it needs to be finished.

Anyway, without further ado, here is the next chapter.

Transcendence

Chapter 76: Adelina's Sin

Ichigo stepped from the Burrows, looking around the clearing he found the Dryads and Children of Cenarius in disarray. Likely the sudden release of his spiritual pressure had caused a ruckus, like he cared. Ignoring them, instead focusing on the shimmering portal a few meters away, he made for his escape back to Theramore.

He knew that Caren and Adelina had already departed through it, beside the shimmer edge of the tear in space was Codexia. She wore a concerned frown, but he only gave her a passing glance as he moved for the portal.

"Did you kill him?" She asked, he couldn't detect any worry in her tone, likely she wouldn't have cared if Fahnelor was dead.

Personally, he would have preferred him a corpse right now.

"No." Ichigo replied, feeling disappointed, reaching forward to the portal. "But if he tries this again, I won't hesitate to end him."

He touched the surface, feeling the energies wash over him, and there was a flash of light, he was no longer on the high peaks of Stonetalon. Looking around at the familiar dusty interior of Theramore's Citadel he relaxed, knowing he was back here calmed him nerves somewhat. He looked around and found Caren conversing with Aegwynn and Tervosh, from the looks of it she wanted to run off somewhere.

He stepped forward, ignoring the sudden whoosh behind him, he glances around the room and notices the lack of someone important. Adelina was not here, a sliver of fear creeped up on him and he looked back to the three mages that were trading words quickly.

"Where's Adelina?" Ichigo demanded, stepping into the conversation and forcing it to a halt.

"She ran off." Caren said.

He scowled, given the state she was in when he last saw her it was no surprise if she would run off. He had to find her, his senses expanding outwards as he searched for his spiritual signature, he could feel it moving off into the distance, she was already outside the walls. He moved to leave but Tervosh stopped him before he could do so, he and Aegwynn seemed intent on questioning him before he left.

"What happened at the Peak? Caren says she felt your power going berserk." Tervosh asked.

Berserk? That was an understatement, he went wild and feral. A part of him war worried, recalling that horrible incident at Lost Point Tower, he had killed a few people there in a fit of rage. This time however it wasn't his Hollow that had come out, it was himself that tried to murder someone. However, no matter what part of him was afraid of this loss of control, a strong part of himself only wanted to see what he started finished.

"You saw what they did to her?" Ichigo growled, even as the words left his lips, he felt his anger boiling over, the idea that they did that to her.

Every time he thought about it his mind played a thousand different images in his head, reliving each and every horrible nightmare he has ever had. To see Adelina like that, to see it with the clarity he never could hope for in his dreams, it had turned his blood to ice in fear and thawed it with fiery hate.

"We saw, Caren says she was beaten by one of the teachers…" Tervosh said.

"That bastard tortured her for years! They all did!" Ichigo yelled, turning to glare at the mage as he gritted his teeth. "They hurt her in all ways imaginable! I returned the favor!"

The man backed off, clearly surprised by his sudden loss of control, but Ichigo paid it no heed, and instead brushed past the man. He had more important things to do than reign in his temper.

"Did you kill anyone?" Aegwynn asked, undaunted by his fiery response.

"No. I left him bloody and tender, but he isn't dead." Ichigo replied, he made a beeline for the stairs, Adelina was getting further away. "I'm going to find her."

"This discussion isn't over." Aegwynn said, but he didn't stop, not until a barrier formed near the stairs and halted his departure. "We need to discuss this. And you need to calm yourself."

"Take this barrier down, right now." Ichigo said, turning to glare at her.

"Do you think you are doing Adelina any service by beating those Druids into submission, by taking her away from them as she is tried for treason." Aegwynn said, calm in the face of the literal shit storm of trouble she was facing right now. "Your actions will cause problems down the line, major problems, not just for the summit but also Theramore."

"Lower the fucking barrier." Ichigo growled, he didn't give two shits anymore about that summit, he only wanted to see Adelina.

"Not until you calm down and see things rationally." Aegwynn replied.

Ichigo turned and stormed up to her, looking her right in the eye. How the hell can she stand there and act like that, those bastards started this and hurt her, they deserved everything they got. The summit can crash and burn for all he cares, not like it was going to go anywhere, those bastards didn't give two shits about the war.

Why should he care? The only thing he wanted was to go back there and finish each and every one of them off.

"Lower the damn barrier." Ichigo hissed.

"No." Aegwynn replied, narrowing his eyes.

"Why the hell are you getting in my way?" Ichigo demanded, grabbing her by her robes as he barked at her.

Everyone stood back, what hostility Ichigo was showing was nothing but the tranquil fury that Aegwynn could unleash at a moment's notice. She was a hurricane hiding behind an innocent white cloud, if Ichigo made a move he would be on the receiving end of her power. But the same could be said about him as well. If either of them clashed it could spell doom for Theramore, and that was not being theatrical.

"Because, you obviously are not thinking straight, and until you do, you remain here." Aegwynn replied, and them released a sudden burst of arcane energy.

Ichigo winced as he felt the energy brush against his skin, it burned, and he was forced back a step. He recovered quickly enough, but before he could do anything a runic circle appeared beneath him, and from it came a swarm of chains. Ethereal chains wrapped around his arms and legs, dragging him down to his knees, holding him in place.

He planned to release his spiritual pressure but then another seal appeared above him, halting his power and literally robbing him of some of his strength. His eyes widened, how the hell did that happen? Glaring up at the magi he knew she had done something to him, whatever it was he was trapped.

"All that power in the hands of a child, it is far too dangerous to leave you unsupervised in spite of the good you can do." Aegwynn said, shaking her head, stepping forward and lifting his chin so he could look at her.

He moved to shout but found his entire mouth sealed shut by an ice mask, he could do nothing but glare at her as he struggled futilely to free himself. But it was pointless, he couldn't even summon up his spiritual power nor break free with his inhuman strength.

"Can you not see yourself? That barely restrained anger does you no good, it makes you volatile and with the kind of power you wield it cannot be allowed to run amok." Aegwynn scolded. "Your control of your emotions is as weak as your control of your powers, it is wild, unrestrained, and destructive. If what Caren tells me is even half true, then you certainly have caused enough damage."

He wanted to get out, even as he forced his spiritual power to flow outwards, he couldn't force it enough to break his restraints. Whatever magic she was using it was powerful enough to keep him from escaping, but he had to keep trying. He had to get to Adelina, he had to make sure she was safe, he couldn't leave her alone.

"I can see that you don't care that much about the summit, or the impending war that is on the horizon. So maybe I should try and reach you from somewhere closer to your heart." Aegwynn said. "How do you intend to help Adelina?"

He froze at the question, unable to answer, not because of the mask that locked his jaw in place but because he truly had no way to answer it. But that only made him angrier, he wanted to shout at her, but all he could do was glare ahead of him. He could only think about hurting those bastards, making them suffer like she did, to protect her from everyone else that tried to hurt her.

"I can tell you are only thinking of lashing out, like a dog protecting his bone, that will not do." Aegwynn continued to scold him, treating him like some damn idiot that didn't know how to do anything other than bark like an animal. "Do you really think she needs someone to protect her? She needs someone to help her, or do you plan to just go after her and prowl around her like some angry guard dog?"

Ichigo wanted to retort, call her out on her bullshit, but he could do nothing but take in her words and swallow them. Sadly, it was a bitter thing to swallow, because he knew it was the truth, there was no way he could deny that he couldn't help her. Not as is, not with how unhinged he was, not with how little he knew.

Why this was happening still eluded him, he knew what had been done to her and the torment she went through, but he didn't know the why. She had not told him why they tortured her, where their hatred came from, it had scared her. So much that the idea of revealing it to anyone immediately made her think they would turn on her.

He knew he wouldn't, he would always be by her side, and make sure nothing hurt her. Of that he was certain, and she would need him there to keep her safe.

The Sentinels and Cenarian Circle would be coming after her, there was no doubt about that, he could fight them off. He knew he could. They probably knew that as well. But what then? Did he just continue along that road indefinitely until they stopped coming? Would he turn on the people he fought alongside in Dire Maul and the Desolace?

Jaina couldn't allow that, she would likely be forced to act against him to keep the peace. He would make enemies, many enemies, reluctant or not, people would turn on him. He and Adelina would become hunted, there would be no one to protect them other than himself. As confident he was in being able to keep her safe.

But would Adelina really want that? Want to be protected against everyone that wanted to see her tried for treason. As much as those Druids had harmed her, she spoke highly of the Circle and the Druids in it, doing anything against them and the Night Elves would only hurt Adelina more. Whatever he did would only cause further issue, but he couldn't do nothing.

However, he had to do something.

If these treasons charges were real than it meant that they would come after her, they had to do something to protect her. What could he possibly do? Politics had proven to be something he wasn't exactly proficient at and it seemed that everyone else was coming up short. So, what the hell does he do? How is he meant to do something when anything he thinks up is useless, only making things worse?

He felt his strength fade, it wasn't the seals on him this time, his anger had begun to cool as the realization hit him. There was little nothing he could do that would protect her, she was already a traitor in the eyes of her people and their leaders. Negotiating with the Night Elves has always been a pain, they were stuck in their ways and were too proud to admit they were wrong.

"What do you plan on doing?" Aegwynn asked, her words level and demanding an answer from him, the clamp around his jaw fell away but he hesitated to speak.

"I don't know…" Ichigo muttered. "I can't stop this… I can't fight it…"

It was already decided, anything he did now would only cause more problems down the line, not only for Adelina but the Alliance and Theramore as well. He couldn't do anything, really, he shouldn't do anything, a part of him rebelled at the idea, but it was better than doing more harm than good.

"You can start by finding her." Aegwynn said, releasing the constricting chains and dispelling the barrier. "Go and find her, an instead of protecting her from what you cannot defend against, maybe try helping her."

Ichigo looked up at her for a moment, then nodded, he could do that he supposed. Help her, he didn't know what he could do, but maybe he could just be there for her, it was better than nothing. Departing from the tower, more subdued than before, he walked from the city and followed the trail left by Adelina.

All the while thinking on how he would speak with her.

He found her out along the coast, looking out across the sea, her head resting against her knees. He drew close, she didn't respond as he stood beside her, not even when he took a seat right next to her. The bruises could still be seen, the dried tears on her cheeks, she was still in pain. His heart began to thunder in his chest, his blood boiled, those words ricocheting in his head.

'Calm down… I can't do anything about it… not anymore…" Ichigo thought to himself, fighting down his darker impulses for her sake.

He could wallow in his own issues when the time was right, when she was safe and sound. But he really didn't know how to start, this was a subject that he couldn't just flat out delve into. There were deep issues here, things he didn't know about or just how bad they were. Truthfully, he needed some kind of opening just to get the conversation rolling.

He hated that, being so uncertain and worried, usually he would drop right into the conversation and go from there to work out what was going on. Often ignoring the need for subtlety just to get the ball rolling, but with her he knew he needed to be a little more tact. Sadly, he was unaccustomed to these kinds of situations, he didn't know where to start, what to do? When the hell did, he become so useless?

"I felt you release your power back at the Den, what happened?" Adelina asked, her words hollow, it was painful to hear her speak like that.

"I beat the living hell out of Fahnelor, nearly killed him, threatened the rest if they came after you." Ichigo replied, almost embarrassed as he finished, not because of what he did but how pathetic he sounded as he tried to lead into the conversation.

"You will only make it harder for yourself, you should have just left me." Adelina replied.

"How the hell can you say that? I would never leave you to those bastards!" Ichigo said, speaking before he even thought, but he took what he could get. "Nothing you have done made you deserving to be hurt like that, or called a traitor."

"But I am… I deserved it… you just don't know why." Adelina said, her shoulder trembling as she uttered those words.

"You don't get to decide that, I know you, I have been by your side ever since I got here and I know you. There is nothing in your past that would change my mind about you." Ichigo said, zeal in his words as he made the declaration.

She didn't respond, only lowering her head once more, unwilling to raise it and meet his eye. Ichigo knew that this was his only chance, he had to know what happened to her, what made her so hated. It was the only way he knew he could help her.

"Tell me why they hate you, let me know why they are doing this, I want to help you." Ichigo begged.

She was silent for a while. A long while, maybe an hour passed between them before another word was said. He would be patient, this was not something he could force out of her, this was something that had defined her entire outlook on herself. If she needed time, he would give it.

"My mother… she was a Sentinel Commander… and my father… he was an Archdruid and a Keeper of the Burrows." Adelina said.

He turned to face her, not speaking another word, she had his full attention. He would listen.

My father was well respected. For he was more than just an Elder Druid, or an Arch Druid, he was a Burrow Protector. A guardian to the sleeping Druids within their Burrow Dens.

Powerful and wise, he had been, for the duties given to him by Shando Stormrage were not for the faint of heart. Few amongst the Druids could undertake a task as daunting as protecting the Burrows, dozens scattered across the forests of Ashenvale and within the caverns of Mount Hyjal. But the physical strain did not amount to the spiritual one, for to protect these burrows required dedication and constant vigilance.

My father was alone for most of his life, forgoing contact with his people and to continually wander around the forests of Ashenvale. That was his duty, one he maintained since the first Druid fell into their deathless slumber.

Khardamyr Oakwalker.

He continued this task endlessly. Never wavering, never breaking from his duties. Fighting against any threat to the Burrows, safeguarding and ensuring the safety of his kin, he was their only defense against the threats that might try to harm them while they are so vulnerable.

He never wavered, for thousands of years, he kept to his task. Never did he have a companion, a friend, or even a passing acquaintance. He was alone through it all.

"If they sleep so much won't they grow hungry?" Adelina asked, looking into the recess of the wall and seeing the sleeping Druid within.

She could barely peak over the edge to see the Druid, the only signs of movement from him being the slow rise and fall of his chest. It made her wonder how they could sleep so comfortably on the hard stone, it looked so uncomfortable.

"No, they will not suffer so, within these burrows they will not feel the pain of hunger or the ravages of the elements. For the blessing bestowed upon them will keep them safe." Khardamyr said, stepping forward and petting his daughter affectionately on the head. "Remember what I told you of the Dragon Aspects, and the blessings they bestowed upon the World Tree Nordrassil?"

"I do! They blessed the tree so that as long as it is alive so is everyone else. We also never get sick and we can go somewhere when we dream." Adelina said.

"Good, you remember, well this is no different, they sleep without fear of hunger or sickness taking hold. Their bodies are preserved." Khardamyr said.

"Then why do you need to keep coming here? And all the other Burrows?" Adelina asked.

"I am to protect them; they are at risk sleeping so peacefully." Khardamyr said, smiling down at his little girl before picking her up. "Imagine it. If a fly were to come in and crawl up their nose, it would be unpleasant for them! They wouldn't be able to do anything! So, it is my duty to keep them from such unpleasantness."

"Gross! An'da is gross!" Adelina yelled, but all he did was laugh and playfully pinch her nose.

I never knew at the time, I was still young and never understood the true scope of my father's mission, not until I was much older. His constant vigil and the efforts he put into protecting these burrows, spending millennia alone and isolated from the rest of his people. There were only a handful times when he crossed paths with others, but they were sometimes decades or even centuries apart. Some were close, but most had been at a distance. But never was he there for long, always on the move, never settling down or having a home of his own, a vagabond.

I began to realize in time the kind of demand this duty required of my father, of myself as well, to constantly be isolated and away from others. I did not envy them, or pity him, I respected my father's dedication. His willingness to put nearly all else aside to ensure his kin were kept from harm, I thought it was nothing short of noble.

He sacrificed so much, for so long, and he did it without any hesitation and even to the end he never wavered in his mission. For his duty was to protect the Burrows, to let go of all other attachments, to have nothing holding him down.

But what about me?

I was the one thing in his life, the one exception to the rule, how is it that I came to be? That is simple really, solitude is a hard burden to bear, and when presented with an opportunity one sometimes cannot resist the temptation. In time my father found a way to cope with such isolation. But in turn, he broke a very important rule.

"Focus now, you are doing well." Khardamyr said, sitting opposite of his daughter, instructing her as she slowly began to grow a small sapling.

"It is difficult, making it grow…" Adelina said, straining as she tried to make the small plant to grow.

"Do not make it grow, forcing it is never the way, we must nurture and provide for the tree rather than make it do as we please. Forcing nature is what leads to desolation, we must instead provide for it as it provides for us." Khardamyr said. "Remember, that life draws on many things, many elements of their surroundings to survive. Warmth, nutrients and water. For anything to grow it needs these things, do not expect anything to come if you only will it to."

Adelina nodded, his teachings coming back to her, nothing in this world could be made from nothing. A price must be paid, it must be given so that something can flourish and grow, creative or destructive elements are always in need of something to sustain themselves. A tree needs to drink the water from its roots and the light from its leaves. A fire needs wood and kindling to grow and spread.

Nothing is without a need for sustenance to survive.

"Draw upon what is around you, take only enough, too much and you can take away what others need." Khardamyr said, watching patiently as she took his words to heart.

She drew upon the energy and nutrients from the ground, pulling the life-giving minerals from the earth and guiding it to the roots of this small little plant. The moisture was next, dew upon the grass and in the soil, drawing it closer to the plant. She glanced up, willing the canopy to part only slightly, giving light to the small little plant.

"Very good… now, you can make it grow." Khardamyr said, smiling as his daughter finally began to nurture the plant.

She concentrated, looking to the plant, slowly feeding it, giving it all that it needed from moment to moment. The change in the plant could be felt as it grew, it needed more food, more water, more light, but she did not allow it to overwhelm her. Giving what was needed, never taking any more than what was required, and when she had expended all that she could give she open her eyes.

Blinking she found her father had been obscured, hidden behind small tree. He leaned around to look at her, smiling proudly at her accomplishments, giving a hearty laugh as he scooped her up and twirled her around.

"Well done my daughter, you did well." Khardamyr said, placing her down and giving her another affectionate pat on the head.

"An'da! I am not a child anymore!" Adelina pouted, embarrassed that her father would pet her in such a way. She was no longer a small girl anymore, she had grown, she was thirty now, he should treat her like an adult.

"Ah, but you are a child. To have lived so short a life and thinking you are older and wiser than you seem, that is childish." Khardamyr replied, smiling as he didn't stop petting her head.

"Do be careful, you may teach her the ways of the Druid, but I am teaching her a more dangerous art."

The call took them both by surprise, stepping into the small clearing was a Sentinel, donned in her armor and with a bow slung over her shoulder. Light green hair and pale purple skin, a mirror image to Adelina, as one would expect from a mother. Her name was Thycina Sunshade, Sentinel Commander, and protector of the Ashenvale Borders.

"Min'da!" Adelina cried, rushing to her and embracing her mother. "It has been so long!"

It had been almost ten years since they last seen one another, a blink in the eye of eternity but it was still long enough for Adelina.

"That it has, I do hope you have not been slacking in your training, your father would have you sit around and sleep all day if he had his way." Thycina called out, making sure her lover could hear her clearly.

"Such insults, coming from someone who only knows how to fight, I would expect nothing less than an unclothed barbarian such as you." Khardamyr said, equally as loud, and just as humorous.

"Barbarian!" Thycina yelled, mock anger in her words. "I am a proud warrior, a leader of the Sentinels, of the great Kal'dorei people! Unlike some of us we don't shut ourselves away in our dens and sleep!"

"Some of us wish to be wise and expand our knowledge, you seem to have more interest in make those calluses on your hands more noticeable!" Khardamyr said, standing before her, his smile never wavering as he lifted her chin to look her in the eyes.

"I do not recall you ever complaining about my hands, last I remember you found them soft and pleasant." Thycina said, smiling up at her lover, her hands trailing across his bare chest and snaking into his robes.

I had always wondered why they acted like that; every time they would join each other's side they would always hold one another. It left me wondering what made them so intimate, but in a way it was understandable. The isolation was not something one could easily handle, most of my life was with my mother and father, the latter more than the former. It was rare I could meet others, those that were not the sleeping and quiet Druids who slumbered within the burrows that is.

They were my worlds, I knew only what was before me, I knew only nature and my parents. Hearing stories of the other great people that they knew, of Malfurion Stormrage and Tyrande Whisperwind, Shandris Feathermoon and the Forest Lord Cenarius. They were near fanciful tales, for in my world that I knew and cherish I had only two people that made it truly magical. I only ever needed them, no one else.

But that was just how I felt. I didn't realize that maybe it was the same for him, that we were the only things that gave his life any joy...

It was no surprise that my father would seek companionship, someone he could connect with, someone that could give his life meaning beyond the constant patrol. The importance of his mission could not be ignored, it was something given to him out of trust. To ignore it, to become derelict in his duties, would be an offence that many would never forgive. He never intended for it to happen, no one would plan such a betrayal, not my father.

But he met my mother, aided her against a band of Dark Trolls, it was meant to be a short meeting. It was short, for in that short few moments they connected, I don't know if it was love at first sight or some infatuations. But I knew that in the end he chose to be with her. Pushing aside his duty for the first time.

If you were to ask me if I thought my father could do something from heinous, that he would abandon his duty to his own personal reasons, I would have denied it. For years she watched him perform his duties with distinction, never wavering as he continued to carry on in spite of raising a daughter. Never did she think he would fail in this sacred task, one that she was privileged to be a part of.

But he did fail, because of me. I was just too foolish to realize it at the time.

"Come Adelina, I wish to show you something." Khardamyr said, guiding her through the forests and close to the borders of eastern Ashenvale. She had not come this far before, to be this close to the edge of Ashenvale and to the borders of Azshara was daunting.

Soon the leaves began to change color, gone was the verdant green and familiar blue, now it was copper and brass that rained from above. Colors she had not truly seen before, especially upon leaves, to think that they could change color so, nature was such a diverse and strange thing. Even for a Druid.

She came to the edge of a cliff, down below she looked to see a long narrow river at its bottom, flowing from the mountains down to places unknown. Beyond this gorge she could see the lands of Azshara, a place she had not seen before and only heard about from her father and mother.

It was a completely different world from the ones she has lived in for these last eight decades, her father was right, she had so much more to learn and understand. But she would be happy to learn it, they had a long time ahead of them.

"Are we to go there An'da?" Adelina asked, although it was interesting, she had heard that it was said to be haunted.

"No, we are to go there." Khardamyr said, pointing a little further down the gorge, and to her surprise saw a house.

Closer they came she found the abode to be recently built, she could sense it within the wood, still brimming with the energy of tree that had only fallen. This place, it had been constructed within the last year or so, but who could it have been?

"Do you think it is a nice place to live?" Khardamyr asked.

"The view of Azshara is incredible, to look upon it and the sun in the morning I am sure would be breathtaking." Adelina said. "Do you know who resides here?"

"Us." Khardamyr replied. "I intend to make this our home, for all of us."

Adelina was surprised, she did not expect her father to say such a thing. Her entire life was moving around from one place to the next, never being able to settle anywhere and take root. The idea that it was possible, that they could actually stay somewhere indefinitely, she didn't know what to feel in this moment.

"And Min'da? Will she come?" Adelina asked, her mother had been coming more regularly over the years, perhaps now she could join them on a more permanent basis.

To have her away for so long was painful, even if recently she had been coming to them more it still was years apart. To see and be able to speak with her more often, to learn from her and be with her as much as father was something she wished for. Adelina knew that they had their duties, that it required much of their time, but she wanted to be together with them more.

"I have spoken with her; she will be here soon." Khardamyr said.

She could not hold back her elation, rushing forward and embracing her father, this was a gift she had dreamed of.

I was happy back then, blinded by all the happiness that was heaped upon me by my father mother. For the next few years I would spend more time with them, not as a student learning from her teachers or as a travelling companion, but as an actual daughter. To have them by my side was all that I wanted, it was like a dream that I wished to relive over and over again.

They were my world, everything I cared about.

But I didn't realize it at the time. They began to forsake their duties.

My father would not leave as often, and for shorter periods of time, his pilgrimages to the different burrows had become lax. The Druids burrows remained unprotected, for months on end, and the Horn of Cenarius was left in the care of three Keepers of the Grove. More time was given to her, to train and teach her, along with to bask in the warmth of family.

My mother was no different, staying for prolonged periods of time and away from her forces near the border. Leaving the defense of their forests to Haldrissa Woodshaper, her second in command and one of her closest friends. I had heard she took over for my mother when she was pregnant, and when I asked, I was told that she could handle the duties well enough on her own.

However, her decision was not the wisest, for she had done no different than her father.

Both had put their own family before their duties, put me above everything else. Maybe it was the long vigil that made them grow lax in their duties, perhaps it was the passion between them or even my birth that drove a wedge between themselves and their obligations. I have no idea.

In the end they did what they wished, what they wanted. I loved those times, even as I think of the bad that came from it, I cherish those years I was with my family. It was for so long, but also so short, and before we knew it the worst had happened. Our borders have been peaceful, protected and secured against any threat that might assail them.

It was when we heard of an army of green skinned beasts invading from the Barrens the idea that the forests were safe evaporated.

"What?" Thycina said, shock and horror escaping with her words.

"An attack, the borders were breached by an unknown army of green skinned horde. Most of our forces have been decimated and Astranaar has been ransacked." Shael'dryn said.

Adelina peaked out from the window, looking to her parents as they conversed with the Dryad. She knew her, a friend she had met some years ago in the groove of the ancient ruins. She often liked to make jokes, her father found them bland but she found them quite humorous and tried so hard to mimic her. She often got scolded for all the little tricks she used to pull on him.

But gone was that merriment and playful banter, the dryad's face was marred with a deep frown of worry. Adelina had no idea what was happening, even as she listened, she couldn't begin to understand what was going on. It would seem some random enemy had come into their lands, broken through their borders and attacked the Sentinels guarding it. People had died… she didn't know what to think on that.

"How long ago?" Khardamyr asked, tension in his words as he asked.

"Four days."

"The Burrows, by Elune the burrows!" Khardamyr said, horrified as he realized the mistake, and the danger to the Druids within those dens. "Have they been repelled? Halted at least?"

"They have slowly begun to advance into the forest, but they have slowed to a crawl for the moment. We have been gathering for a counterattack, Cenarius himself will be taking battle to these invaders, I have been called to aid them." The Dryad said.

"We shall join you." Thycina said. "Give us a moment, we must… prepare for our departure."

"Make haste, Cenarius is likely within reach of these invaders and will not wait for your arrival." The Dryad said.

Adelina rushed down the steps and found her mother and father gathering their belongings, her father took up his stave, and her mother claimed her bow and a quiver full of arrows. They were grim, wearing visages she had never seen before, it made them near unrecognizable in her eyes.

"Min'da. An'da. What is happening?" Adelina asked.

They turned to her, expressions warping as they battle many emotions within them. It was so strange, and frightening, to see them so anxious. What could make them appear as such? What did they discuss with the Dryad that had put such fear into them? Adelina wished to know, but was frightened to ask, too afraid to know the truth.

"My child, this is not something for you to know." Khardamyr said, stepping forward and laying a hand on her shoulders, he looked so hesitant to speak, unwilling to give proper explanation.

"But it is important is it not? For you to be so struck with fear." Adelina said, part of her was fearful to know, to give cause for such dread in her family, but a part of her couldn't help but wish to know.

"I am sorry Adelina, but this is something we must do alone, it will only cause you heartache. Let us be the holders of this burden." Thycina said, giving a smile that did not reach her eyes, which were filled with sadness.

They would depart shortly after, giving a promise to return when all was settled. For a month they were gone, leaving me alone in our home and fearing the worst. I heard not a word from another soul in that entire time, waiting patiently for them to return and regale her of some fantastic tale. Of how they had pushed back an invasion and saved their people from great turmoil.

These fantasies helped ease my mind, take away the dreadful feeling that welled in me every time I thought of their departure. How they looked so scared, so frightened, it would be the poison that tainted my mind. Slowly but surely, as the days and nights passed, I began to realize that something terrible had happened.

I could wait no longer, not without knowing what had become of my family.

But two days after I set out, with only a pack of food and a bow to protect myself I was wholly unprepared for what I was about to face. For it was not the Warsong that were a threat now, instead it was the demons that had invaded the forests on mass. I was scared, trapped on all sides, unable to do anything but flee at every opportunity.

I had fought back several times, but those struggles amounted to nothing. I was afraid, never truly fighting against such monsters alone. I had no choice but to run, and keep running.

I wished for someone to save me, for my parents to come and rescue me from the horror.

They were everywhere, no matter where she ran or hid, they would always find her. If they could smell her fear than it was obvious why she was being found so easily, never before had she been so terrified.

"Min'da, An'da, please… I'm scared…" Adelina whimpered, hiding in the dark recesses of a trees roots.

She could hear the foul language of the demons, they were searching for her, a small pack of hunters were chasing her. Making sport of hunting her down, with them were a pack of demonic canines, thirty for blood and looking to satiate it with her.

One had peaked it head into the recess she hid, and she reacted, pulling back the bow string and letting an arrow fly. The demonic beast let out a pained howl, but she did not finish it off, she fled from the small hiding place and ran once more. Her legs ached, her skin was marred with many scratches, she wished for nothing but to stop and rest. But it would be the end of her.

"An'da! Min'da! I don't know what to do!" Adelina cried out.

Something had crashed into her side, sending her to the ground, she found out what it was when said creature had leapt on top of her and tried to tear her throat out. She barely was able to hold it back with her bow, its sharp teeth tearing through the wood as it tried to sink its teeth into her flesh.

"Help! Help!" Adelina cried, tears streaming down her cheeks as she begged for aid.

It came when a spear sailed through the air and struck the beast, throwing it from her and allowing her to scurry backward away from it. Then the demons approached, moving in for the kill, only to be struck down by a barrage of spears and magic.

Her rescuers revealed themselves. It was Shael'dryn, along with a cohort of her fellow Dryads. Adelina could not offer any words, only stare at the chaotic and bloody battle that followed, she watched as demons fell and Dryads along with them. In the end the demons were vanquished, but they did not die without taking many victims with them

Watching the battle was terrifying, seeing the bodies even more so. Even when the serene quiet of the forest settled on them, she could not help but stare at the many bodies that littered the ground. Dryads, those who were known to her, their faces recognizable, they were lifeless and eviscerated.

"Adelina, are you well?" Shael'dryn had come to her side, but she did not answer.

She could only look at the bodies, of those she knew so well, gone from the world. Could this be what is happening everywhere? Was her An'da and Min'da fighting for their lives? Could they have fallen already, were they just another set of corpses in some random part of Ashenvale that had been victims of the demons.

"Adelina!"

The voice ripped her from the despair that swallowed her, she looked up, her heart leapt as high as the moon. Her father was there, alive and well, he rushed to her and she threw herself towards him as he came close. Weeping in joy, knowing he was safe, that those dark thoughts were not true, that he was alive.

"An'da! I was so scared, I thought I had lost you!" Adelina said, weeping into his chest.

"I am so sorry; I should not have left you there." He said, stroking her hair and consoling her. "It is alright, I am here now."

"Where is Min'da? Is she here as well?" Adelina asked.

The hand upon her head went still. Pulling back, she looked up at her father, he said nothing, but the pain upon his face spoke more than enough for her.

My mother died holding back the Warsong. When Cenarius fell to the orcs the entire army was routed, she remained behind to lead a defense so everyone else could retreat. She had personally sacrificed herself with a few warriors to save what was left of their army.

It was a valiant act, one that many had said redeemed her mistakes in the eyes of the Sentinels. At least for some, but that was not what truly had been on my mind when I learned the news. I could do nothing but wallow in misery, knowing my mother was gone and would never be coming back. The idea of it, that someone I love was gone forever, it had been something I could not properly describe.

The pain and hollowness I felt, the irreplaceable happiness once felt was gone. My mother's kind words, her warm embrace, her smiles, they were gone forever.

We had stayed only a day in Raynewood, for they had to escape Ashenvale and move for Moonglade. The sacred Horn of Cenarius was there, and it must be retrieved so that they could awaken the Druids from their slumber. I do not remember most of the journey, how many days and weeks it must have been, fighting through scores of demons and moving for those sacred lands.

But I do recall what happened when we arrived.

We entered the sacred village of Nighthaven, it had been near destroyed, it would seem that the demons and the undead had reached here as well. All around were Sentinels who were removing the corpses of their kin and the enemy.

"Khardamyr! Where have you been?" Malfurion Stormrage thundered, walking down the street and straight towards them, his bellow had caught the attention of many. "Demons run amok through Ashenvale and the Burrows are left defenseless. Why did you not come here and wake them weeks ago?"

"I am sorry Shan'do, I was drawn from my duties." Khardamyr replied, lowering his head in shame, it made her already aching heart wretch at seeing her father in such pain.

"Drawn from your duties? What could have drawn you from protecting your sleeping brothers?" Malfurion retorted, narrowing his eyes. "You were charged with the defense of every burrow in Ashenvale, including the Horn of Cenarius."

Khardamyr did not speak, unable to meet the eye of his Shando, he knew he had failed. Adelina did not know why he was being blamed for this, he had always put his duties ahead of all things, he had done so much and remained so vigilant, why was he being treated so?

"No excuse? Do you have any idea how many have been lost? The Druids of the Antler is all but extinct. Our brothers in many burrows have been lost, because you were not there to protect them. Had you any sense you would have come to Moonglade the moment these threats appeared!" Malfurion yelled.

"I… have no excuse to give." Khardamyr said, never raising his head. "All I can do now is earn recompense."

"Recompense? The blood of many is on your hands, hundreds of brother's dead because of you. Worse still their only chance of survival was out of reach! The Primal Guardians left to protect the Horn repel any sent their way! Because of you we lost even more lives! Word was you were there when the demons were first seen, why did you not come here immediately? What reasons could you have to not come here the moment these demons appeared? Tell me!"

Khardamyr did not respond, he could not respond, no excuse given could have been enough to wash away this failure. But Adelina did not wish to see it so, he had only come to save her, he had lost mother already so why not tell them. But her father did not speak, if he would not defend himself than she would do it instead

"Please! Do not blame him!" Adelina said, stepping forward, flinching as the Archdruid's gaze fell upon her. "My father only sought to save me; I live near the borders of Azshara. He came to save me after mother perished, please, do not blame him for this. He is a good man!"

Trying to explain what happened, but the glare she received only forced silence upon her. She shivered under those eyes, judging her as much as her father.

How could she explain this? She didn't even know what was happening, not completely, but what they are saying about her father couldn't be true. He was diligent and kind, he would never allow others to be hurt, and never would he shy away from his duties.

But the look that Malfurion Stormrage directed towards her, there was anger behind his hard stoicism, ready to burst should it be prodded. Something held it back, what I was she did not know, only that it held.

"You have failed in your duty, Khardamyr, you disappoint me." Malfurion said, his words like a distant thunder, slowly drawing closer. "Had I the foresight I should never have chosen you for this task, it pains me that you would turn your back on us."

"I am sorry Shando."

"It does not matter anymore, the damage is done, all that you can do now is shoulder those that were lost and pray that your inaction does not lead us all to ruin." Malfurion said, his words hollow as he turned from him.

I didn't know at the time, I was naïve, I only saw what I wanted to see and believe whatever I wanted to hear. My father was diligent, never shying away from his duties, until I was born and he focused more upon me than anyone else. Because of that when the time came where he was needed it ended with many Druid's perishing. If he had remained at his post, had he stayed the course nothing would have gone wrong.

That is what many had said, if he had been there to make a difference most would have survived.

I know that now, I realized it the moment that the war ended, and when my father died.

His body was cold, covered by a shroud up to his neck, to hide the grizzly wounds he had suffered through. He had died near the peak of the mountain, giving his kin along with their human and orc allies time to flee from the approaching demons. He perished alongside several other brave champions, now his body lay amongst the many dead.

"Father… what do I do? I don't… I don't know what to do…" Adelina said, unable to take her eyes of the lifeless visage of her father.

She was lost, her family was gone, none left to guide her and show her the world. How was she meant to go on? That night many of the bodies had been buried, even her fathers, the only respect he was given. None of the Druids deigned to come to his grave, none spat upon it in respect, he was buried and forgotten.

Staying at his side for the entire night, she looked upon his grave and wept. Even as dawn came the pain would not go away, the uncertainty of her future never left her, she was lost and unable to focus on the path ahead of her.

"You raised me, taught me all that I know, but how do I go on from here? What do I do?" Adelina asked, begging for an answer.

This question was asked over and over again, but no answers could be given. None could speak to her; none could hope to give her clarity on the life she was meant to live.

"I am all alone now, both of you were the only ones who could show me the way. Now what do I do?" Adelina said, asking again, but receiving no answer.

For months I was trapped in a limbo, unable to escape my despair and find purpose with my life, all that I knew and loved was gone. All that awaited me was the scorn of many who saw my father as a criminal, who abandoned his kin to the orcs and demons when they needed him most. I lived in Astanaar for some time, tending to the wounds of the Sentinels there, staying with a friend of my mothers.

There were some in the village that knew I was Thycina's daughter, some hated me for that. Hated her for abandoning her post. It was mild in comparison to the peak, but it was still there, and I withered under that hostility.

Only my mother's friend and subordinate, Haldrissa Woodshaper, was there to shield me from the worst of the trouble. I had lived with her since my father's passing, she took me in and tried to guide me. She was kind to me, but even she held hatred towards my mother, and in time it bled over to me.

Another set of pouches and quivers were lain out before her. It had picked up again, she had heard that some of the Sentinels were trying to reclaim the eastern forests, the demons there had taken over a canyon in the region. Along with moving into Azshara, but she didn't care for the details, she just went along with it.

It was all she was good for now.

As she fixed a tear in a pouch, she heard the someone walk through the door, looking up she saw her ward standing there. She gave a sign as she observed the messy little shop, she kept for herself, filled with torn and damaged gear that needed tending.

"You need to find purpose Adelina, there is no point in you wallowing away here." Haldrissa said. "Being trapped in here is doing you no good."

"I have no other purpose, nothing else I can do, it is better if I stay here. Without my father and mother…" Adelina started, continuing her sewing, several sentinels had requested aid in their provisions, she was offering a helping hand.

"Why do you continue to mention them, they are not here, and they should hold no sway in your future." Haldrissa said, frustrated it seemed, but she didn't pay attention to her moods. "You listen too much to the others, they only say what they do out of frustration. You should not listen to what they have to say."

Adelina knew her point was moot, for all the effort she put towards consoling her she knew that Haldrissa loathed her because of her mother. She too was angry, for the loss of life and the many deaths, and blamed her mother for her foolishness. Sacrifice be damned, because it did not bring back the dead, and with her gone only she was left to take the brunt of that hatred.

"But they are not wrong, I am to blame, aren't I?" Adelina said.

"You are not them; their faults and failings do not have to weigh you down." Haldrissa said.

"You say that… but I know you hate me too." Adelina replied.

Haldrissa did not respond to that, she could not deny it to Adelina or herself, all she could do was stand there and silently agree with her. For what might seem like the first time, both of them appeared to be in agreement.

"Adelina… I loved your mother, I respected her for all she had done for the Sentinels. For the longest time she was the best of us, but near the end she failed in her duty. I hate it that her memory was tainted, that all the millennia she stood in these forests protecting it have been wasted. But… I do not want you to suffer in her place. She loved you, enough that she gave up everything just to be with you." Haldrissa struggled to find the words. "I don't want you to think that you have to take responsibility for this."

Adelina didn't reply, she continued to sew the new pouches, there was no point in replying. All she was doing was repeating what she always did, it would end like it always did, Haldrissa leaving her to do these small menial tasks that she could do.

"Be sure to come back for dinner… alright?" Haldrissa said, turning around and walking out the small room and returning to her duties.

She continued to sew, repeating the monotonous task of sewing together new pouches and quivers, her mind left to wander. It was times like these that she could reflect on all the pain she had endured, and continued to endure.

Many hold her in contempt, her family was tainted with misdeed and death. Two proud people, an Archdruid and Sentinel Commander, tossing aside their duties to elope somewhere with their child. It was contemptible, their own desires overruling their honor, there were few of her people that did not know their names and think ill of their actions.

But they did not truly know them, they were good and loving parents, kind to her and all others. She knew they failed, that they made mistakes, but a part of her could not accept the slights they were being dealt. They deserved better, they deserved to be remembered for what they were, for what she saw in them.

But what could she do? How could she hope to make things right?

All looked upon her as some ill omen, the daughter of two failures that brought ruin onto their people. She was as much to blame as them, for if she was not born of their union than they would not have forsaken their duty. That was often whispered in Astranaar, when she came into sight people looked her way and muttered harsh words under their breath.

"I am as much to blame." Adelina said.

How could she hope to repair the damage to their reputations when her own was just as tainted? What hope did she have? If she was to even consider it, she would need to be recognized as someone other than a failure, other than the mistake born of two failures.

"If I am to blame, could I save them… by saving myself?" Adelina asked aloud, wondering if it was possible.

They blame her, see her as the cause of her parent's downfall. If she could shatter that illusion, improve upon her own and become someone that earned her redemption, she can do the same for her family.

"This… is this the way?" Adelina asked, putting aside the needle and thread and thinking on this.

If she could show herself to be something great, do something that could elevate herself and earn the respect needed to draw herself from this pit of despair and shame. To do that, she could end this cycle of hatred, and finally see her family redeemed in the eyes of her people.

"I need to continue my training."

From that point onwards I knew what I needed to do. Everything I did, everything I went through, it was all to help mold me into something greater. I found a friend of my mother's that could get me to Stonetalon Peak, she was able to convince the Lord of the mountains to allow me to join the newest group of recruits that would be trained at the Thal'darah Grove.

I did not hide my name, even when some had warned me to do so, for I wanted them to know who I was. To remember me, and while I was afraid for every insult and action taken against me, I knew that it would be for the greater good. That if I persevered, through the torment, through the pain. That I could become something greater, that I could become a Druid that would honor the circle and in turn honor my parents.

That was the only way for me to redeem them.

Ichigo listened, every word and detail, he could almost imagine it all. He did not speak, did not utter a single word through her entire retelling, many times he wanted to speak, to console her or offer comfort. But he held himself back, until the very end.

"They were wrong to judge you like that; you didn't deserve this." Ichigo said, for all he reasoning, it didn't mean he agreed with the way she had been treated.

"It doesn't matter, this isn't about right or wrong or if I am to blame or not. The people see it as such, my people view me as I am, whether or not it is true all that matters is what they believe." Adelina replied. "I believe them, I am to blame, that is all that matters, because if I can shatter that belief, I can wash away my mistakes and that of my parents."

Ichigo was surprised, truly he was, to think that she wasn't shouldering this torment and pain for a reason that was as illogical as the people who persecuted her. This wasn't her a victim of the idiocy of others, she was martyring herself against them so that she could redeem herself in the end.

He could respect that, but it was obvious that she had not come out of this unscathed.

"Why would you think me and Caren would hate you for this?" Ichigo asked.

She was silent for a moment, seemingly unable to look him in the eye, as if saying anything now would give cause to her fears.

"A part of me believed that is would only be natural. Your diligence and strength cannot be denied, you follow through with your beliefs and ideals and never do they waver. It reminds me of my mother and father, so strong and mighty and never shaking in their resolve." Adelina said. "A part of me wondered if you would lose respect for me, knowing that I was the cause of them losing their way."

Ichigo looked at her, wondering she if truly understood what kind of pain she was putting herself through. Did she actually not see it was her own belief in her own self-worth that was doing more harm than others. Thinking like that, her entire life was driven to exonerating the sins of her parents, all other things meant little in the end. This was the only path ahead of her.

In a way he understood her, because he was not so different. He felt like her, that he was responsible for a grave mistake and the only way to make up for it was to do everything in his power to never let it happen again. He knew what she was going through.

"A part of me is still afraid of what you would think of me." Adelina said, unable to hide a shiver. "That you would hate me, after everything I have told you and despite what some might say, I fear that you come to hate me."

"Why would I hate you?" Ichigo asked.

She turned to look at him, her expression one of confusion and likely mirrored his own befuddlement.

"Why would I hate you for being loved by your family?" Ichigo said, running his hand through his hair. "I am more pissed at the shit you went through and the utter bullshit people have been feeding you since you lost your family."

"But… what happened…" Adelina started.

"They wouldn't be happy knowing you are upset, knowing that you are being hurt every day because of this." Ichigo said, he was reminded of his own talk with his father at his mother's grave.

The man was a fool sometimes, but once in a while he was able to sprout off some wisdom.

"Your family loved you, they went against everything else just to raise you and be with you. That shows me how much they loved you, for people to turn on you because of their mistakes, mistakes you don't deserve to inherit. I imagine that the two of them are screaming from the afterlife at the bastards that hurt you like that." Ichigo said.

'Misaki would never forgive me if I hated you.' His father's words rung in his ear.

"They did what any parent would for their child, protect and raise them, and while they screwed up in a lot of ways, they are still people you care about." Ichigo said. "They wouldn't care about honor and their duty, if they gave it up for you, do you actually think they would want you to suffer for them?"

Adelina did not respond, and like the many times he tried to convince her before this time she was listening.

"You have done no wrong in my eyes, and your families mistakes don't reflect on you, because the one thing they did right out of this whole mess, was raise someone as strong and kind as you." Ichigo said. "I won't change my mind on that, so don't argue with me, alright?"

He didn't hear her response, but when he looked, he saw her trembling beside him. It took him by surprise when she finally turned to him, weeping like never before and lunging at him. She held onto him for all her life, crying all the way, but he knew there was no pain in her tears, only joy.

Sitting there he kept her close and watched as the horizon slowly began to darken. He would be here for as long as she needed him, he wasn't going to leave her side, not when she needed him most. And until this was settled, where he could save her from the charge of treason, he would remain there.

Theramore Isle, The Citadel

It was a few hours later that they returned back to Theramore, they had remained on that beach for some time. Ichigo had carried her back to Theramore, she had actually fallen asleep on his shoulder, he didn't complain, he was happy to know that she had been given some solace through this ordeal. He took her to the inn first, leaving her with Caren, it would be better that she was with someone familiar. The mage was distraught when they came back, she had thought something bad had happened when he carried Adelina back into the city. It took a bit of convincing to calm her down and now she was sitting by Adelina's side as she slept.

As much as he would have liked to remain there, he had other matters to attend to. The moment things calmed down Caren had told him that Jaina had returned and wanted to see him.

He didn't wait up. As he reached the top of the stairs, he saw Jaina waiting for him. Aegwynn, Tervosh, Pained and Lorena were there, is was a crisis meeting, and with him present it looked like it they were ready to start.

"Adelina, is she well?" Jaina asked, looking actually worried, she had probably been alerted to the situation.

"Yeah, she's sleeping now." Ichigo replied.

"I was informed of what happened, Caren and Codexia told me of the situation on the peak, had I known of this beforehand I would have tried to keep her away." Jaina said, shaking her head and looking truly remorseful of putting Adelina in that position.

"We didn't know, there was nothing you could have done." Ichigo replied, they were all to blame really, no one really knew how bad she had it there. "How are things in Darnassus?"

Jaina let out a sigh, the morose look on her face seemed to become more terrible.

"Negotiations have not gone well. Tyrande is unwilling to bend the law in this instance, not with what the Highborne Nobility have done, she wants them punished to the full extent of their laws. Their entire people put to the sword." Jaina said.

"So, there is an actual law that allows them to commit genocide?" Ichigo asked, crossing his arms, a bit harsh, especially since not all of the Highborne are responsible for what happened. "Can't blame everyone for what happened, most of the populace rebelled against them when the time came."

"These are some old laws, formed during very turbulent times, it is to be expected that they are harsh." Jaina said. "My attempts to quell the turmoil were not successful, especially with the Horde seizing the city. Old hatred run deep, and there is a great deal of animosity on both sides."

"And Adelina? She fits into this as well?" Ichigo asked, from the looks of it the moment Adelina was mentioned it seemed that everything went from bad to total clusterfuck in the span of a few seconds.

"Yes, her actions in Ethel Rethor could be viewed as treason, especially if she opened a way to the Emerald Dream. If they fear that the Emerald Dream and the energies within that realm can be harnessed by the Highborne they fear it could bring about great harm." Jaina said. "And as Codexia has told me of what it is currently being used for, I think they will jump to that conclusion quickly once they realize such a thing."

Yeah, using the Dream as a dam to hold back the Elemental Planes, not exactly the smartest thing. But it could also be argued that they would use those energies for other less benevolent undertakings. The Horde did come off as very militaristic and it wouldn't be a major leap to think that they would try to use the power of the Dream for some new weapon.

"Tyrande wanted Adelina in Darnassus, to be brought to the city to be questioned and then tried for her crimes." Jaina said. "I tried to compel her to see reason, but she was adamant on seeing this done. I do not know how long we have, but soon people will be here to take her. There is little I can do to stop them."

Ichigo knew that, she was in a tight spot and really couldn't refuse the Night Elves. If she did that could lead to a major political incident that might see further conflict down the road, not just with the Horde but maybe even the Night Elves. That was something Jaina or anyone couldn't allow.

"How long do you think we have?" Ichigo asked.

"Two days, maybe three if we are fortunate." Jaina said. "But it doesn't matter in the long run, we have no way to fix this."

"Then we need to figure something out in the time we have, not only to settle this conflict but also get these charges against Adelina thrown out." Ichigo said, he wasn't truly worried, because now he had people here that could help him.

He had a plan from the get go, how to deal with this incident with the Desolace. But maybe he could work something out that could save Adelina as well, he just needed to work out the details with some friends.

"So, stop moping, we don't have time to waste, we got a deadline." Ichigo said.

Jaina seemed to catch on, likely surprised he was so stoic in spite of the turmoil they were going through. She smiled, nodding her head.

"Do you have anything in mind?" Jaina asked.

"I got an idea on how to end this little feud with the Druids and Tauren, I will let you in on the details. But I need your help in making sure I can make this work without any problems." Ichigo said.

He had two days to fix things. Not a lot of time, but he had been able to do wonders in such a short time frame. As much as this wasn't training to attain Bankai, he knew that it would be tricky. But unlike then he had a slew of people that could help him.

"Then let us begin."

There you have it, that is Adelina's backstory and history. It was honestly hard to do this because of how much history is there. I wanted to get a blend of seeing her life as well as her telling her own backstory from her perspective. I wanted a major contrast in how she was in the past and how he is now and saw it.

I think it is alright, I am a decent writer but doing a scene like that was tricky.

Either way, it is done now. Hope you like it.