Yes, I've ran searches, but I'm still confused. Everything I read says brifters and mtb/FD's are a no go, but then some still manage to make the combo. What gives? Is it something only doable with a top pull style derailleur?

Why? I have an early 90's Deore DX groupset on my 'cross build and would like to stick with it if at all possible. That includes derailleurs, crankset, hubs, and brakes. Right now I'm using some Deore XT thumbies that I dremelled out and mounted on the bar tops. But, the indexing is failing and I would really, really like to go with brifters....STI or Ergo. Kinda undecided on that part. Bar ends are out. The idea is nice, but my knees don't like them. Plus, well....you know.....brifters are just the bomb. I'd go with something like an early 90's 105 FD if I really hafta to make the brifter thing work, but I sure like my current kit. It all matches...hehehe. If the top pull mtb/FD would be what makes it work, though, maybe I could just find another Deore DX on ebay of the top pull variety?

If at all pertinent, my goal is setting up a 2x9 with a 42x26 up front and 11-34 in the back.