Dawn of War: Fateful Tide

"We all experience emotions to a degree on the highs and lows. Rage can blind us to the reasons. Sadness will cause us to give up. Happiness can give us pleasure that words can't explain. Of all the emotions, the most dangerous yet undying of them will always be love. The only flaw when love is involved is the desire that comes with it."

Chapter 7: Section 7 – 1

The air is cool and breezing; it pushes the leafs softly. The sun shines proudly this afternoon. Many things continue to go on and thrive. The animals hunt for fruit, prey, and plants to feast on. The insects crawl around on the ground to survive; the sound of everything around the area is peaceful. The ground is disturbed by the walking of the humans. At their side, elder of the craft world Alaitoc walk softly. They gaze out into the land to see what they can find; there is nothing for them to see. Imperial soldiers look through scopes to see what the human eyes can find. No signs of movement; no heat signatures to discover. Every attempt is meant with failure. For each time the radio coms broadcast nothing new, the rage stirs within. At the center of the imperial fortress, the elder stand and wait. Many are left unsure; the few leading them are filled with unexplained questions. Lucas, Carl, and Lina try their best to keep their close allies at peace. The only issue is how far will they allow some things go unchecked.

Veldoran angrily says, "Your friend does more to her than any has ever done. How long must we wait and leave them alone before she is not the same as we have seen her?"

Lucas answers, "Calm yourself, Veldoran. I am sure Max is not about to do anything too hasty to her. He may be crazy, but I see good in him. Is this situation any better for me? No, it is not. I too feel that is all something that shouldn't happen given what your commander has been through."

Shelia approaches Lucas with rage-filled eyes, "You and your mon-keigh friends know nothing of what Kayleth is enduring. Ever since he laid eyes on her, your friend has been an infection that can't be gone from her sight. You would do well to remember that all of this started since he marked her."

Carl interrupts, "And you would do well to recall that your farseer ended up on this planet after one of your 'needs' to save your own kind. Max is no threat to us. It is only you wide-eye xenos that fear him."

Before another word comes from any, a powerful shriek is heard. Everyone rushes from their post to find the source of the commotion. In the center near the Faded Light, Wraithseer Elenwe howls in pain and unleash a powerful warp blast to the sky. She allows her powers to erupt greatly before finally resting her rage. Veldoran and Shelia appear beside her.

Elenwe says, "I have what I need, but I require help. Is there any word from Kayleth?"

They both deliver the sad news of where she may be. Instead of rage, the great wraithseer Elenwe begs an audience with the others. It didn't take long for her to inform Lina, Lucas and Carl of what comes next. They all speed up their effort to try and locate the other two needed. The day goes on and more challenges are coming to them. With no more orks looting the planet, the imperial army and elder of Alaitoc will face their next journey with hope.

Far away on a small island in the east, he checks his surroundings. No movement in the bushes. No rustling leafs on the ground. Everything is silent. The water is rolling in from the shore line. He takes a moment to admire the view of it.

Max says, "This is what I love about being here? It is quiet and relaxing. Everything I hear has a soothing sound to it. How about you?"

He turns to see no sign of her. He looks to the tree line. Max scratches his head in confusion.

He thought, "Where did she go to?"

Just as he is about to try using his devices, an unseen force shoves him to the ground. He tries to move his hands only to feel a grip on them. Suddenly, a set of lips lock with his and small moans are heard. She slowly loses her warp stealth to keep herself hidden from his eyes; Max pauses as he looks into the eyes of desire. Kayleth smiles at him greatly. As Max tries to not show concern for her ill condition, he uses his blank powers to further weaken the warp around Kayleth.

She says, "Oh Max, there is no need to weaken me if I am already yours."

Max replies, "I am only looking out for you, Kayleth. And you have answers that I require. But first, can you get off me."

Kayleth smiles seductively as her eyes flash crimson red; she leaps up from Max. He stands on his feet. He didn't think the emotions of the elder can be stronger than any other being in the galaxy. Max clears away the sand from his clothes. He looks at Kayleth move closer to him; the smell from her is sweeter than sugar canes. She smiles at Max with great enthusiasm. Before she can share a kiss with him, Max stops her to question her further.

He says, "Kayleth, what is going through your mind right now?"

Kayleth inhales and exhales heavily, "I am focused only one what is happening now. I want more of you than I ever. You have completed me and shown me more that there is to accept. Is this not enough? Am I not enough for you, Max?"

Max sighs and pulls away. Kayleth becomes worried and nearly allows her dark emotions to cloud her thoughts.

"I only want to understand what you are enduring now," he said. Max continues, "Based on what my allies have learned from Veldoran and Elenwe, you are traveling down a dark path away from the light of being pure. They believe that you will end up like Rela did; they are certain that I am the cause of your fall from grace. So, tell me. How does this display of affection to me now make you feel? How does it cause you to fall from a grace?"

Kayleth lowers her head and turns to the sea. She gazes out into the distance and tries to recall everything the elder have done. It brings her sadness.

She says, "A long time ago, we were the masters of the galaxy. The elder held absolute authority over all the stars and planets. There was no other species in the universe that could withstand our might. The orks were annoying yet persistence; the Tau were so primitive like you. The forces of the Dark Gods were ever scheming. Even the necron armies were nothing more than slight irritations to our great empire. We, the eldar, were the greatest rulers at the height of our empire. Even before your kind took to the stars, we enjoyed everything the galaxy offered us. We explored the deep corners of warp and found more than just ourselves there; I can still remember all of the great wonders of the galaxy that surprised me. That was a long time ago. During that time, many great farseers of old could see the coming disaster that would be created by us. I remember entering my last cycle of rebirth. It is still horrifying to see my kin and people fall so far from being pure beings of light. The extreme measure of their want to experience every sensation still haunts my mind at times. The further they explore their desires, the stronger the urge becomes harder to resist. As time went on, many of the wise and great eldar farseers saw what was coming. When my world was abandon, a part of me was left behind. All that changed when She Who Thirsts was born. Now, look at us. We are trying to hold on and survive."

Kayleth turns to Max and continues, "You want to understand what I am enduring? You can't understand me. My emotions are as they should be. Can you love me as I am now?"

Max approaches her; Kayleth slightly breathes hard. He holds her softly.

He says, "I will try to understand you as you are now. I won't let you end up as Rela. And yes, you are not going down the wrong path."

Kayleth begins to feel vulnerable to Max's words; she moans softly and presses up against him. Max cuts the tender moment short by allowing his radio com to contact him.

A voice says, "Noble One, you are needed back at base. If you see the eldar commander, please pass the message on to her. Something has come up."

Kayleth becomes infuriated and replies, "Must they bother us now?"

Max says, "Those are our friends and allies. We must go back. There will be plenty of time for me to understand us."

Before he can signal the nearest shuttle with a flare, Kayleth locks lips with him again.

She says, "I will hold you to it Max."

Kayleth leaps through a warp portal and heads back to the fortress. Max launches a flare to call for help. As Max sits back, he thinks of how affectionate Kayleth is. Despite the warnings of his friends and allies, Max sees her in a new light. After time goes on, Max arrives back at the imperial fortress. With the high ranking officers and commanders together, the time has come for more news to surprise them. Max speaks with Lina and Lucas; Carl is keeping order. With the gathering underway, Carl gives the reports to Lucas. Shortly, Max addresses everyone based on what he was told.

Max says, "Our enemy is attacking us from a place beyond the eye of the galaxy. The eldar are trying to find out where they are coming from. The most we have been told is that the Sons of Malice may be using this place as a staging ground. Make no mistake understanding, anything beyond the halo zone of this universe will come as a surprise to us."

Lucas joins him, "We all heard of some stories from those who have went out of the halo zone. Many planets are untouched by the Emperor's light; others have ghosts of the dead. There are even tales of lifeforms too horrifying to describe. Whatever the reason, we know that the Sons of Malice are out there. The wraithseer will discover their location. Once we have it, we will undertake a dangerous journey beyond this galaxy to face the enemy. Prepare yourself, your companies, and your weapons. We will not be caught unprepared."

The commanders and officers acknowledge the orders; they begin their war-prep as fast as they can. With the stories of what lies out of the halo zone, many begin to truly believe this will end badly. As the last officers leave, Max turns to face his three closest allies. They look at him with wonder and study his movement. Max raises an eye brow and wonders what is going on.

Carl says, "You seem steady and at peace. Is there anything you want to tell us?"

Before he can reply, Lucas begs to be alone with him. Lina protests the idea of a private chat; Carl questions what the reason is. Instead of ordering his officer and lover to leave, he pleads.

Lucas says, "I understand you want to know if Max is ok with what he is doing with Kayleth; however, he is still the same. All is well and going to be better. I need you two to make sure everyone is ready for the journey. It won't take the eldar long to find the place our enemy is at."

Carl salutes his leader and heads out; Lina kisses him greatly and goes to alert her tech teams. Max and Lucas stand alone in the chamber with words for each other.

Max says, "You know something is up to dismiss them away quickly with flavored words of hope. What is going on?"

Lucas sighs and replies, "You are in more trouble than ever. I just hope this doesn't make things uneasy for the eldar and us."

Before Max can ask what is his meaning, a warp portal opens in front of him. Shelia leaps out at Max. She tries to cut him down as he moves away as fast as he can. Lucas tries to ease her fury, but Veldoran appears to stop him. The two look on to see Shelia drives Max back against the wall. Just as she is about to strike him, Max allows his blank abilities to stretch around the area. The warp portal collapses; Shelia becomes weaken by the anti-warp abilities. Max locks her arms as she roars and struggles to be free. Veldoran turns to their direction; Lucas steps in between them and begs that everyone calms down.

Chapter 7: Section 7 – 2

The rage is ready to burst; the trust is nearly broken. Yet, hope endures even when all is thrown against it. Max holds Shelia by her arms with his gun pointed at Lucas. Veldoran aims his palm at Max with a warp fire ready. Lucas stands in the center to do what he can; he lowers his hands and looks to both.

Lucas says, "Stay where you are Max. Calm down, please. You too, Veldoran. You both went too far."

Max angrily replies, "You wish to talk about 'too far'? Yes, let's point out how far you went to agree with Veldoran to kill me."

Veldoran answers sharply, "If there is any at fault here, it is you Max. You can't be with her or near Kayleth no more. You must die."

Shelia struggles more, but the anti-warp abilities keep her weak, "You have corrupt Kayleth too much. You must die in order for her to be free of your madness."

Lucas fires his gun in the air. All three look at him as though he is possessed.

He says, "This is not the time for that. We have more pressing issues than to worry over what Max has done to Kayleth. She is still on our side; Max, I didn't know they would try to kill you given the fact you saved them from a daemon years ago. Veldoran, you should have just told me that you wanted to eliminate him. I understand that Max caused Kayleth to be different, but we have more dangerous threats to handle than this."

Veldoran lowers his palm, "You understand nothing. You are as careless as Max is."

With Shelia finally breaking free of Max's hold, she leaps from him.

She says, "Take heed mon-keigh. I will slay you if she has to die by our hands."

The two eldar leave. Just as Lucas tries to apologize, Max punches him in the jaw.

Lucas says, "Yeah, I deserve that for trusting them so much."

Max calms his rage and helps him up, "Yeah, you do. Don't do that again. Plus, they will need our help more than ever now. If what you told me is true, then the journey will be dangerous. To venture out into the zones beyond this universe is to invite danger to ourselves. Are you sure Elenwe knows what she is doing?"

Lucas says, "I know that she won't lie to me. I just don't want us going too far beyond the point of no return. So, here is hope for the greatness of the human empire."

As the two agree on the matter at hand, the eldar stand ready. They all watch the center of the area. All around, every eldar present pours their warp energy into the center. They all pray to their ancestors that the spell will work. Wraithseer Elenwe stands in the center completely immobilize. She feels at peace, yet Elenwe understands the dangers of stretching across the sea of stars. Just below her, Kayleth stands firm and ready. She is unnerved and steady; the warp spell excites her to a degree. With her powers stretching around the area, all eyes fall on the eldar ship. They can't believe how amazing the area is; the massive amount of warp energy sings out loudly to all who look upon it. The sight of it leaves every human in awe. With her powers finally stretched to the fullest capabilities, Elenwe looks deep beyond the reaches of the galaxy; she pierces beyond the veils of the warp. Her flow of warp power mixed with her soul calls out to every daemon of the warp. Suddenly, she comes to a planet. It is full of life. Every plant shines every so brightly. Before she can investigate further, a sudden force halts her progress. With soul being pulled at, Elenwe returns to her destination back on Saneesh. The last few words she recalls from the unknown planet terrify her.

"You will only find death waiting for you."

The eldar watch as their farseer crumbles to the ground. Despite the painful experience of stretching across the galaxy to unknown space, Elenwe was able to achieve what she needs.

She says, "I know where the enemy hides. We must look pass this halo and go further to face them."

As the eldar understand what must be done, Kayleth agrees to go and inform their allies of what must be done. Before she can leave, she is approached by her closest kin. Shelia, Veldoran, and Elenwe stop her just as she is about to leap through a warp portal.

Shelia says, "It is best if I go and inform the humans of our next journey. You must not succumb to any more temptations."

Rather than allow her emotions to cloud her better judgement, Kayleth nods her head in agreement. After Shelia leaves, her closes warlock and farseer look upon her.

Veldoran says, "You seem to shine bright for a long time. Yet, something causes you to trouble. What is it?"

Kayleth replies, "There is nothing that causes me to feel devote to my kin. If you are worried about my time spent with Max, it is nothing. I will still put my kin first before anything else."

Elenwe adds, "If that is so, then let us test your devotion. As your kin and farseer, I want to see if you are still the say Autarch of craftworld Alaitoc."

In the command center, everyone keeps their mind, eyes, hands, and body busy with work. Some calibrate machines; a handful modify their weapons. It is an important task to the soldiers of the Imperial Guard to keep their skills ready and at peak condition. Lucas and Lina continue to improve and modify their allies. A warp portal opens beside them; Shelia steps out and greets her allies with the news of what has happen. The news gives them pause, but they both knew what would come next. Shelia takes her leave of them to rejoin her kin. Lina, Lucas, and Max discuss what they will say to the others.

Lucas says, "At least we know that our enemies are beyond this galaxy. The only concerns are what we will find out there. The stories of the planets untouched by the Emperor's light is frightening for those who managed to return. Many It is rare to hear about even a planet full of life outside of the halo zone. If we go, we may not be able to return to this side of the galaxy. The warp is much more dangers to travel without a guide."

Max replies, "And how long should we wait until they have what they need to return to us as a threat? You and I see what they can do. We know that they are after us and will gladly sacrifice us to their Dark God to see him return to destroy not only us but their own allies. The Sons of Malice have to be dealt with. Even if we must go beyond the zone we are in, we will prevent one evil from destroying everything we worked to build."

Lina adds, "What you both say is right. To journey beyond the halo zone of this galaxy is to travel through dark space with no navigation to find this world the eldar have found. To stop the Sons of Malice from achieving their goal is a priority that we can undertake to allow our other forces to stop whatever plans the orks, tyranids, necrons, or chaos followers are performing. The only concerns are the two unknowns and two possible futures. Our first concern is facing this enemy; however, the eldar know where to find this planet. Would they gladly go with us through dark space to find this planet? Not to mention, we are going where none dare to travel. We face threats that no one has ever seen. Do we have the means to fight it? Those should be our real concerns. The unknowns are what the future holds for us. This can end badly for us; it can end greatly for us. I urge us to think this our carefully before we leap into the maw of the unknown dark space."

They all think hard on their choices until Carl interrupts them with daily reports on the imperial fortress.

He says, "Our reactors are operating a peak condition. Every weapon is stored on the War Harbinger and in each barrack around the fortress. No lack of focus has gone from none of our new recruits for the imperial guardians, imperial guard, ogyrns, storm troopers, and scouts. We now have more than five million people living on the planet. More areas are being colonized for us to improve on their condition."

Lucas reads over the other parts of the report; Lina monitors the systems on her devices. Max lowers his head. Carl looks at the three with some surprise.

Carl says, "I take it you all are lost in thoughts on what to inform us of?"

Lucas looks up and answers, "We are just debating over what is the best course to take."

Max adds, "For now, there is nothing new. We will keep you informed."

Lina keeps her voice silent. The three commanding officers are lost in thought on what to say to their soldiers. Carl sighs and nearly laughs at the trio.

He says, "If you are worried about how the army will handle the news, then you need not think so hard on it. We faced the rage of the orks when War Boss Bone Snappa attacked us. We endured the sinister plot of the dark eldar; the eldar of Alaitoc fought at our side as we stood before a Great Daemon of Chaos. Where we go, we will be faced with danger regards. The only real question is will you tell us everything and not leave us in the dark. I trust your choices. You are the three we follow into war. When you are ready, I'll rally the others. For now, I will keep everyone focused on their tasks."

Carl takes his leave. Max and Lucas stop him from going. They all sit together and discuss what needs to be done.

Lina happily smiles and says, "If we are going into dark space to a feign world, then I will be construct of our own beacon to bring us back here should anything go wrong. Once we established it, we will make another on the new planet to connect us to the home world. We will be prepared for what horrors await us in the new world we are going. My tech-priests will begin finding new ways to enhance the weapons we have."

Once she leaves, Lucas and Max agree with their previous commitment. They will announce to all the news of their next journey. The only trouble is will they have support. As the able leaders begin their preparations. Back near the eldar camp, a strike towards her cause the banshee to leap away. A second warrior strikes at the opponent; the blow forces the her to take a defensive posture. Before another move is made, a strong warp blast strikes the backside of her. She falls hard to the soil. Instead of staying down, she pulls herself up and stands ready to go again. Many eldar warriors and warlocks didn't believe Kayleth is ready for more; however, three of the eldar didn't want to accept her new change. Veldoran orders his warlocks to fire more warp shots at her; Kayleth easily dodges them. Shelia howls at her banshees to strike at her quickly. The eldar warriors easily force Kayleth to maintain her defenses. The words of doubt begin to swirl I their heads.

"Is she unfit? Can she still lead us? Has her resolve weaken?"

The more the doubts come forth, the less they attack her. Veldoran orders his warlocks to stand down as he steps to the center. Kayleth looks at him with a relaxed guard.

He says, "You have changed. You are not as bright as before."

Kayleth gasps at his words, but understands why. Not once has any of her attacks been strong enough to give an average eldar pause. Wraithseer Elenwe steps forward with Shelia at her side. The other eldar return to the Faded Light and wait for further instructs.

Elenwe says, "You let him change you Kayleth; we can't rely on you to lead us if he is now your concern more than us."

Kayleth answers, "I did not want this, but I desire it more than ever now. Is this how I must be forever?"

Shelia says, "You will always be welcome to fight at our side, but not as our Autarch anymore. We will find a suitable one to replace you. For now, rest your mind and body."

As her companions leave her side, Kayleth looks down at her hands. No more does she feel the need to be wrathful than before. There is peace; she feels it. As she thinks of what will be her future, her thoughts turn to Max. Normally, she could find peace with her own thoughts and be ready to handle the next battle. Now, she faces something that can't be explained. With her heart full of joy and sorrow, Kayleth leaves to find the one person who can be there for her more than before. Max sends off his troops for their final task. He turns to hear and see a warp portal open before him. She steps out from it. Max is glad to see her, but he sees sadness in her eyes. As before, many soldiers step away and give them privacy. Max walks up to Kayleth. He sees her concern.

He says, "You seem sad. What is wrong?"

Kayleth lowers her head, "They have seen my flaws. I cannot lead the eldar no more. A new Autarch will be chosen among my kin."

Max allows his rage to nearly overcome him. He slams his fists on a nearby crate. The rage caught everyone's attention.

He roars, "This is unacceptable. I will not allow them to do this to you after everything you have obtain and done for them. You are going back there to show them why you are the best choice for your kind."

Before she can speak, Max takes her by the hand and squeezes tight. She begs Max to understand the reason behind this. Max turns and holds her tightly. The others look on with curious eyes.

Max says, "You may be different, but you are still fit to lead your eldar warriors in battle against any enemy. You just need the right touch. Now, let's go back to your allies and show them why you are meant to lead."

Max starts walking ahead of her; she looks on and decides to follow him in hopes of preventing a problem from breaking out. One of the soldiers contacts Lucas about the situation. He quickly gathers up his gear and informs Lina of what Max is about to do.

Lina says, "Why is Max so upset over what the eldar do?"

Lucas replies, "The eldar are our allies right now. We need to keep it that way. The way they handle their own kind is not for us to interfere."

Chapter 7: Section 7 – 3

The time has come for her to rise up and accept her new position; a new Autarch has been chosen to lead craftworld Alaitoc into glory against the forces of evil. The proper rites for such a title have been done. She bows her head and utters the words of conviction among her kin.

She says, "I am Shelia of craftworld Alaitoc. I stand before you all and accept my new charge to lead our kin. My word is absolute; my purpose is clear. No enemy can withstand the might I possess. From the farthest reaches of space, I will face my enemy with no remorse. To the dry landscapes of the worlds, I will endure for the future. Nothing is beyond me; all will fear the wrathful banshee of Alaitoc."

The eldar banshees speak, "May your strength guide us forward!"

The eldar warlock cry, "May your power be unmatched!"

The eldar dire avengers shout, "May your vision be strong as Khaine!"

The eldar warp spiders say, "And may your path lead us to victory!"

The eldar all roar, "The craftworld of Alaitoc shall prevail against the enemies!"

Shelia stands up and accepts her new role. As much as the eldar want to stand on ceremony, they have their new mission. They await word from Shelia.

Veldoran approaches her, "What shall we do now? Elenwe has shown us where we are to go if we must face the Sons of Malice."

Shelia replies, "We will journey to our next nearby eldar craftworld and asks for additional help. We are strong, but we must have more before we begin."

As the eldar slowly accept their new leader, the area starts to feel cold. Many warlocks begin to feel the uncomfortable void come at them. As the eldar look around, they find the source slowly just beside them. They all gather no more than a few yards from the source; many can't believe she would dare bring him here. Max calls to the eldar leaders. Shelia leads the way with her small escort near her. Her rage is kept in checked for fear of what Max can do.

Shelia angrily says, "What do you want?"

Max replies, "I hear you are the new Autarch of the eldar. I have come to tell you that you are mistaken. Kayleth is still the rightful one."

Veldoran watches from the rear with their sight enhanced by their warp powers.

Shelia nearly laughs, "You must be foolish if we are going to follow her. She is no longer shinning as we use to see her. Your actions caused her to be less bright."

Max replies, "You may believe her to be not as strong as she is, but I assure you that Kayleth is more powerful than ever. This is a difficult time for her, but she is still here leading you into battle and fighting against the enemies we all face. How can you say she is less than before?"

Kayleth watches and says no words; Shelia notices this trait and shakes her head in disappointment.

She says, "So, you now let this mon-keigh speak for you? I expected more from you than this Kayleth."

She replies, "You would do well to remember that I was…"

Shelia interrupts, "Exactly! You 'were' our leader; however, your actions show us that you are unfit to lead us. You are no longer worthy of being the Autarch of Alaitoc."

Max steps forward; the eldar nearly jump away for fear of him.

He says, "What must she do to regain your trust?"

Before a word is spoken, Elenwe surprises everyone by appearing before everyone. Her sudden appearance brings shock to all. Just as fast as she shows up, the imperial army led by Lucas shows up just out of range. They hold back and wait to see what will happen.

Elenwe looks to Kayleth and Max; she looks over to Shelia. There is only way for this to be decided.

She says, "You wish to see Kayleth restored to her title? Then, she must be willing to invoke the rite of combat."

Before she can accept the challenge, Max happily says, "She will take any challenge you unleash upon her. She is ready."

Kayleth agrees to the duel. Shelia stands ready to defend her status. As the eldar begin to make preparations for Shelia, Max pulls Kayleth to the side. Instead of a comforting embrace, Max receives a slap to his face. Lucas and sees the commotion from his scope and advises every soldier to stand back. They would wait until the news comes to them from their crazy commander.

Max caresses his face, "Well I'm glad you are able to be mad, but why did you slap me for?"

Kayleth groans in anger, "Why must you push for more when I have what I want? I would have happily accepted the former title of not being an Autarch anymore. Now, I must duel Shelia to earn it back. Why did you bring me back to this?"

Max answers, "Because I can see that you are still unsure. Yes, it is easy to let go, but I don't want you this way. I still want you to be at your best for your kind."

In a fit of rage, Kayleth allows her warp powers to push out from her very body. The sudden surprise catches everyone's attention. Many eldar begin to wonder if this will be a chance for them to lose their new Autarch.

Kayleth says, "I do not need you to interfere Max. This is my choice and not yours."

Max smiles at her and replies, "Now there is the Kayleth I know. She can be sweet when it is time, but right now, I need you to be the same as you are now."

She didn't follow none of the logic Max shows her. One moment, he desires her to love him. Later, he wishes for her to show him more rage than concern. As the two bicker, Lucas and his company look on. Kayleth takes her leave of Max. With everything going, Lucas readies his voice for the questions he would ask Max. Once Max arrives, he looks ahead at what will come their way.

Lucas says, "You are a very crazy man; I have met my fair share of those who are out of their mind but none like you. Now you seek to see the eldar undo their choice? I suppose next you will try and tell them what their future holds."

Max says, "If we are going to get the eldar to help us, Kayleth has to be the one who leads them. Shelia is strong and tough; however, Kayleth has been at it longer than any of them. I have my own reasons for her retaking back her title. And she can do it."

Kayleth floats calmly in an open spot alone; she stops and turns around with her blade ready to strike. She is approached by Veldoran.

He says, "Your other half is more of a fool than ever. If he truly believes you can win, I am more than willing to support him if all happens accordingly."

She says, "I do not understand him. Max is proving more and more confusing in his words and actions each time with me. What do you believe is going through his mind?"

Veldoran answers, "I can't say for sure. He won't tell me either. For now, he truly believes that you will be the right one to lead us. For now, I will not say no words but watch."

In less than an hour, the eldar stand around the outer edges of the duel grounds. The bone singers constructed an ancient dueling ground with more than enough space to for them to battle until the end. Shelia takes her place in the center of the duel grounds. She cries fiercely to her kin. The majority support her; they believe in her. Kayleth walks steps near the area only for Max to call her. She looks back and sees him coming. With no eldar wanting to be near him, Kayleth hears his words.

He says, "I came here to support you. You will win this and claim victory over her."

Kayleth gives him a smile; he stills sees her doubt, but Max smiles as she steps into the duel area. Shelia draws her blade out. Kayleth does the same. There is a moment of pause in their actions. With one loud battle cry, Shelia leaps at Kayleth to test her mettle. The swords clash against each other; the eldar watch and patiently wait to see which one of them will prevail over the other. As their body twists and spins around the area, Kayleth and Shelia show no pause. They go about ten rounds before the surprise happens. Shelia easily knocks Kayleth down. The few humans in the area are left in utter amazement; Kayleth quickly recovers only to receive a small cut near her cheek. The attack forces her to leap away from Shelia.

Shelia says, "Your attacks are less than what they are. Did you get weak since your time spent with Max, or is this how you will be remembered?"

Kayleth stands on her feet. She lets out a small growl; there is something wrong. Every single man, woman, and eldar look on with anticipation. Shelia raises an eye brow and tries to understand what is going on. With her hand gripping her light blue blade, Kayleth sprints pass Shelia. No one understands what has happened until a cry of pain is heard from Shelia; she falls to her knees and discovers her stomach has a slash mark on it. Shelia leaps away only to feel her neck receive a powerful smack to it. The pain is too much; she stumbles to the ground. Max didn't understand what is happening. Veldoran and other warlocks move in to end the trial of combat. The eldar fear the worst would happen to Kayleth. Before any warlock can summon a spell, Kayleth unleashes her wrath; the power of Khaine erupts from within her. Before she can get out of hand, Max steps before her. Not knowing if he can calm her fury, he takes on the full force of her power. The eldar and humans present can't believe how strong Kayleth is; they are flabbergasted by how unusual Max has become. Kayleth looks into Max's eyes. He can see the rage come from her.

He says, "Kayleth! Calm your rage! It is ok! You don't need to fight any more!"

Kayleth roars, "Stand aside mon-keigh! I shall reclaim what is mine!"

In that moment of rage, Max finally understood why the eldar were set on replacing Kayleth. The raw power of Kayleth was slowly making her as corrupt as Rela. In a display of madness, Max rushes upon Kayleth and holds her. He allows his abilities as a blank to cancel the warp powers around the area. All the eldar jump back and feel the cold void surround them; the force from Max nearly causes all eldar to howl in pain. Kayleth calms her fury as she is weakened by the anti-warp powers. She finds herself in the arms of Max with her kin watching. She slowly breaks down and sheds a tear. Max lets her go. Before he can inquire about her condition, Kayleth leaps through a warp portal and is seen no more. The eldar can't believe what is happening. Veldoran leaps towards Max and crushes his fist against his face; Max stumbles to the ground only to find Veldoran standing over him ready to kill him.

He says, "You have forsaken our ways for the last time. I will only say this to you as a warning on your life. Stay away from us and away from Kayleth. Your needs have caused her more than just pain."

As Veldoran turns away from him, Max stands up and replies, "I still believe she is the rightful one for you. Surely, you must see…"

Elenwe appears before Max. Her size nearly frightens Max.

She says, "You have done more harm to us than help. Please, stay from her if you still desire to continue this alliance."

With her final plea heard, Max lowers his head in sadness. He agrees to do so and takes his leave of the area. As the eldar try and nurse Shelia back to health, everything begins to fall apart. Is the Max's love for Kayleth too much? Did he go too far with his wants? None can say at the moment. As the final days of Lina's project come to an end, many of the imperial army begin to question if the eldar are still committed to helping them. A few handfuls damn Max for the problems he caused; others try to understand what the eldar will say. Lucas and Max go over a few more details of the beacon Lina's tech teams made. Throughout the entire conversation, Max only agrees and replies very little. Lucas sighs and looks to him.

He says, "It may have been done out of the kindness of your own heart, but this is their way. You can't expect everything to go the way you want it."

Max only sighs. He makes no responses; Lucas honors him and takes up the remaining part of reports. With a heavy heart, Max retires from the command center and goes to his own quarters. Lina comes in and gives her lover the final report; she takes notice that Max is not with him.

She says, "Was it that bad? Is the alliance between us and the eldar still strong?"

Lucas answers, "For now, we are all giving each other space. The two most important ones that need it are Max and Kayleth. He shouldn't have pushed her so hard to retake back something she will gladly give up. If anything, the eldar may not go with us."

Lina holds Lucas by his hands, "Whatever happens, we will all be ready for it."

As the two lock hands and share a moment, they pray to the Great Omnissiah and Immortal Emperor of Mankind that all is not lost for them.

Chapter 7: Section 7 – 4

The air is cool; it blows pass everyone. The recent events between the eldar and imperial army have gone sour. Many eldar have considered leaving the planet to seek a new path for the craftworld; some want to end all contact between their allies permanently. None can say for sure how things will go. Every choice of words hangs on the next problem that will occur. At the eldar camp, they all meditate on what has happen to Kayleth, Shelia, and Max. Not a single thought of elimination has left the eldar mind. Only a few want to understand why Max did what he did. He urged Kayleth to retake her former role as Autarch; the foolish mon-keigh not only violated the trial by combat but made the recent Autarch suffer at the hands of the less bright one. Veldoran is lost in words of worry and rage; Shelia is hurt yet at peace. Out of all the eldar there, a certain one keeps hope for everything that has happen. Elenwe expands her voice for only one person to hear. It goes across the sky and signals her closest kin.

She says, "Are you ok? Where are your thoughts at?"

In the farthest reaches of the land, she expresses more sorrow than others can understand.

Kayleth says, "My thoughts are twisted with words that I do not have knowledge of nor have been taught. I only wish to understand them. Tell me, wraithseer Elenwe. What will happen now?"

Elenwe replies, "I do not know what comes to us. For now, I am looking into the future. All I see are events that show me promise for us if we journey beyond the halo zone with our allies. By going with them, we will discover ancient places and achieve more to our cause. There are a few setbacks during the journey, but each one gives us more. If we choose not to travel with them, our path will take us back to our craftworld for defense. The humans on other imperial worlds will assist; they will strike with us at the heart of our enemies. Each battle will bring us closer to achieving more support yet none can say if we will be successful."

The very word 'setbacks' causes Kayleth to become intrigued by its meaning.

Kayleth asks, "What sort of setbacks are we to encounter?"

At the imperial fortress, he keeps to himself and thinks back to what has happen to him and her. Each step has caused her to fallen further from grace. Max didn't know what to do any more to make her smile. He knows that something is wrong with Kayleth; she has become less than what he remembers. Max takes a walk out into the open landscape and thinks hard on what he should not do.

He thought, "Ugh, I can't believe how dangerous Kayleth has become. Her thoughts and emotions are highly volatile to what I do to her. I hope this doesn't become a problem anymore. Maybe I should stay away from her and them for now."

The more he thinks, the less happy Max is. Before he can walk any further, a large explosion occurs just over his head. He looks up to the sky and sees something large flying towards the south east. Just before it is out of his sight, a second explosion occurs. Max rushes to a nearby jet bike. He hops on and takes off in the direction of the flying ship. He gets on the com link and radio others about what has happen.

Lucas says, "We are mobilizing now. Take the forward companies with you and scout ahead."

Max acknowledges the order and arrives shortly at the forward companies. Only a small band of imperial guardians are among the raw recruits of the imperial guard. They begin their march towards the destination. Along the way, they discover debris on the ground; many of the pieces are colored yellow with golden. As the army keeps advancing, they see strange pieces of metal that belong to none of their own kit. After a long drive, they come across a large tank. They fully look over it and see no wheels; its cannon is shooting out electric sparks. It didn't take the eldar long to join the allies near the destroyed tank. They look upon it with great wonder.

An imperial soldier says, "It looks like a hover tank, but we don't make these."

An eldar ranger adds, "It is almost similar to our own gravity tanks, but this appears to be highly advance."

Max looks further to the south east; he sees smoke rising high into the sky. As he gives orders for the army to move out, a warp portal opens in front of him. Kayleth steps from it only to move away from Max.

She says, "I see you are out here as well."

He answers, "Yes, I was the closest. I'm glad to see you are here."

Kayleth tries to smile; however, she recalls the recent events that haunt her mind. As the eldar and imperial army move further to the sight, they come across various pieces of tech that surpass human expectations. The eldar look at each piece as though crafted by hands similar to their own. After a long journey, the humans and eldar come to the perfect site. The ship appears advanced as the tech they see. Max orders his troops to set up camp just out of range. Kayleth orders her kin to follow in the same manner. They would wait until reinforcements come. Max takes the moment to see Kayleth doing her best to stay from him. Instead of trying to speak with her, he honors the moment of silence. It didn't take long before their allies join them. Max and Lucas take their advance parties to the front; Shelia and Veldoran join them leaving the others to watch the camp. Before the alliance can advance any further, they stop just out of range from what appears to be a xeno the imperium is familiar with. It didn't take long for humanity to come face to face with a foe that keeps trying to offer them the same choice before. One of the humanoid beings steps forward; it is accompanied by small drones floating next to the sides. One drone creates a shield around him; the other drone aims it weapons at the target. Lucas grinds his teeth with rage; Max looks to him to see he is ready to fire. The tall being stops outside of the firing range; it was carrying two large cannons. Suddenly, a broadcast to the imperial com channel is heard:

"I come before you to offer peace and cooperation. We are of the Tau Empire. Our ship has been disabled and must undergo repairs; we are not here to harm you. We seek to speak with your leaders."

Max and Lucas agree to hold back their soldiers to hear the enemy commander out. As those both advance to the center field to meet with the unknown commander, Veldoran and Shelia join them. Once the four meet with the being, they continue to hear his words.

He continues, "I didn't expect to find the eldar and humans working together. Truly, this must be a sign of hope for us."

Max sharply says, "What do you want?

Lucas harshly adds, "Why are you here?"

He answers, "My faction was attacked by an unknown enemy we do not know; I was assigned to this task by the Ethereals of Tau to seek a new place of expansion for our kind. We journeyed out here to find any planet with fair living conditions for us. Instead, our ship was fired upon. We continued to come with way after we cross over the sea of stars. To our surprise, the beacons picked up activity on this planet. We thought this is where the enemy went to. Now we have found you."

Veldoran questions him, "Who was the enemy?"

Shelia keeps her hand on her weapon, "Who are you?"

He says, "My name is Shas'O Kais of the Tau Empire. Our enemy is some form of imperial space marines…"

A new voice adds, "…They call themselves Sons of Malice. They have taken civilians from us. We seek your help to find them and stop them."

Kais quickly turns around to his new Ethereal, "Aun El Rai. Do not endanger yourself by being here. I cannot stress that enough so much. You risk the dangers of being killed if this fails."

It didn't take Lucas long to bring up his scouts and small companies under his command from the rear. The eldar do the same as the fire caste army advances closely behind their commander and ethereal. As the alliances of eldar and humans look into the faces of the Tau, a surprise comes to Lucas that further increases his rage. He sees them yet refuses to accept what his eyes view. Not only did the Tau bring an army, they bring their Gue'vesa to the front with them.

Lucas cries fiercely, "Damn you to the warp! You dare point your guns at the empire you once served?!"

Max calms Lucas's fury; Aun El Rai calmly steps forward. Max turns to him. The armies are ready to fire.

Aun El Rai wants to back away in fear; however, he stands his ground.

He says, "You are one of the soulless. I can sense something wrong with you, but I know you won't harm me."

Kais keeps his guns ready and Max says, "You did come to us peaceful. I won't attack you nor will your army be harmed. You said the Sons of Malice attacked you. Therefore, we both shall a common enemy. Come back with us towards the fortress. So long as you keep the peace, we will discuss what you know about the enemy."

Aun El Rai agrees and orders Shas'O Kais to bring their main ship to the fortress as soon as he can. The humans keep their distance from the Tau; the eldar feel the need to guide them. As Max and Lucas chat in their own transportation, the conversation is more intense than before.

Lucas roars, "Why must you invite them into the fortress? Tell me I didn't just become your 2nd in command?"

Max replies, "You are still the Lord General of this regiment; however, they did say the Sons of Malice attacked them. We can use the additional help. But tell me, Lord General Lucas Turner. Why do you hate the Tau with such a passion?"

Lucas sighs and answers, "Before I serve under Vance the Bright, I was station in the eastern portion of the galaxy. At the time, I had barely moved up the rank and became corporal. My first assignment was to investigate and report the activities of the Tau. The first part of our investigation was easy; I lead the unit with my sergeant through a deep narrow pass. By noon, we had cleared it. Only when we walked into an ambush did we realize how foolish we were; the Tau soldiers easily crippled us from firing our guns back. After we were render useless, they took us to their camp. I slowly saw them nurse many of us back to full health and offer us a chance to join them. I swore by the Emperor blessing that I would not give into their temptation; it didn't take my platoon long to give in. Even watching my sergeant accept the xeno hospitality was unbearable. I was alone; I was the single servant to the Emperor."

Max assures him that it won't happen, but Lucas didn't allow his weakness to slip. He was fully aware of what the Tau would offer him army should they mingle too closely to them. Once at the fortress, many soldier and civilians watched as the Tau army and the few unarmed civilians march into the fortress. Shas'O Kais watched carefully for anything to slip up or go wrong. As Lina and Carl watch from a distance, they both ponder over what was said for this to come to pass. Carl goes to the crowds and keeps morale high and everyone away from the new xeno arrivals. He received orders from Lucas that the Tau would occupy the south west quarter and station their camps outside of the fortress. Carl keeps his troops busy and orders all imperial guardsmen to stay away from the xeno.

Carl thought, "By the Golden throne of the Emperor, this is too close for comfort. I pray only Max and Lucas know what they are doing. We got fortunate to be excused for the Rogue Trader laws, but not for dealings with the Tau."

Once the Tau military and civilians were occupied to the south west zone, Aun El Rai and Shas'O Kais call to Max and Lucas. It didn't take long before Lina, Carl, Shelia, Veldoran, and Elenwe to join them. Even Kayleth joins the gathering to see the newcomers; however, Kayleth stays her hand and keeps her distant. After the leaders of each faction join, it becomes a surprise to both sides. Max, Lucas, and Lina stand together on fragile nerves and uncertain thoughts. Veldoran, Shelia, and Elenwe look closely and wait to hear the words the Tau leader would say; Shas'O Kais and Aun El Rai stand firm and excited by the new faces that gather join them.

Lucas clears his throat, "So, you encountered the Sons of Malice?"

Kais replies, "Yes, we mentioned this early."

He quickly looks to the Tau commander, "I was talking to the grey-blue ethereal, not you metal head."

Before it erupts into a problem, Lina adds, "You will have to forgive him. He had a horrible dealing with the Tau a long time ago."

El Rai calmly accepts the understand. Veldoran opens the discussion, "Tell us what you know of the encounter you had."

Aun El Rai answers, "The encounter was swift and unexpected. We didn't think they would attack us directly. One of our ships was crippled and many were taken alive. We seek to reclaim them in hopes of continuing our original plan."

Max asks, "So, what is your original plan?"

As the group continue to discuss what they know, many more events are on the horizon for them. The Eldar are ready and steadfast; the Tau are able and flexible. Only the imperial army would decide if the new comers are worth having or dangerous.

Chapter 7: Section 7 – 5

The Tau Empire has come far in their wars to carve out a name for the Greater Good concept. Like many great leaders, each one is more than willing to offer the enemy the chance to surrender and accept the new way of living. War must be only a last resort for the Tau when all else fails. As the two ruling leaders of the Tau talk among eldar and human leaders, Carl finds himself stuck outside the camp watching and waiting. He looks to his side and finds a Tau fire caste soldier standing at ease. Carl may have been skeptic about the Tau, but he finds himself somehow drawn to this one soldier. Carl removes his helmet and takes a drink of his water. The fire caste soldier looks in his direction; he offers the xeno a drink yet secretly prays a bottle of water will kill it. The Tau refuses the offer and pulls out a small bottle. The soldier hooks the bottle up to the fire suit. Carl watches as the small thin light blue liquid travels up and into the mouth piece. Instead of waiting and wondering, Carl walks over to the Tau soldier. It quickly turns to him with hands ready to aim the pulse rifle.

Carl quickly says, "It is alright. I will place my gun away since my leaders asks me to keep the peace. I am of the imperial guardians. You are…?"

The Tau fire warrior places the pulse rifle away and removes the helmet. Carl nearly allows his impulse to drive his thoughts wild; he didn't expect the fire warrior to be so refine and beautiful.

She says, "I am of the Tau; my name is Kina."

Carl extends his hand to offer a hand shake. Instead, the Tau warrior moves towards him and looks deeply into his eyes. The moment feels intense for him; however, the tau warrior calmly warms up to him.

She says, "If you are not taken by a person of your kind, I would be honored if you submit yourself to me."

Carl raises an eye brow and asks, "What do you mean?"

Before an answer comes out, a blade appears between the two. Shelia pulls Carl away from her.

She says, "I hope you are not giving yourself over to the tau woman. Their 'idea' of a male submitting to them can be more than just extreme."

Carl looks back to see the fire warrior jog off to her platoon. He nearly laughs at Shelia and turns to her.

He says, "So, I take it our leaders have come to an agreement?"

Shelia answers, "Yes, they have, but we are considering our options. You would do well to not get involved with her again."

As the meeting comes to an end, all sides of each faction retreat. The Tau army stays in the south west zone. They hear the words of their great leaders.

Aun El Rai broadcasts: "Soldiers of the Tau Empire. We have found a peaceful way to ensure our survival. Let this message pass to you all and be ready to continue the journey with us into the void of space. We face the mad, the soulless, and the damned. None shall stop us; we will find victory and rescue those that were taken from us."

At the eldar ship, the three take council and discuss what they now face. Elenwe, Shelia and Veldoran speak privately among themselves. They even bring Kayleth into their meeting.

Shelia says, "The Tau have a mission of their own, but are they secretly here to achieve it or did they encounter the Sons of Malice?"

Elenwe adds, "Their story may hold truth in it; however, we cannot allow them to follow us where we go. We still have our own objective to achieve, but they may prove more useful than the humans. I see their potential more useful for us."

Veldoran interrupts, "Be that as it may, there is no way you can hide our true intentions from them forever. Why have we not told the humans of our true goal for journeying beyond the halo zone? Surely, you must know that we won't abandon our craftworld so easily if not for a greater cause?"

Kayleth sighs and finally speaks, "What we do now will be for our benefit. The Tau may come with us to continue their own plan, but we know our mission. I won't say what we must do; however, Shelia must make the right call for us."

As much as the eldar are preparing for their own trails, the imperial leaders stand on uneven accords. Max tries to understand why Lucas is so infuriated with the Tau; Lina does her best to support her lover's reasons. Carl finds himself lost in thought over the female tau fire warrior. With so much unexpected events, the imperial army now stands with either more problems or allies.

Lucas growls, "What you are suggesting is not the right course of action for us to take Max. Tell me that this is a joke? Tell me you are joking about using the Tau army to help us fight the Sons of Malice? I would like to hear your reasons."

Max answers, "This whole situation with the Tau, the eldar, and the Sons of Malice are easy to read. First, the Tau were attacked by them; they forced them here to crash land on Saneesh. Now, the Tau have revealed to us that they wish to sit up a new expansion out here on this side of the galaxy. I recall the old reports of them staying in the east portion of the galaxy. So, why are they truly out here? The eldar are almost easy to read, but they still have yet to tell us why they wish to assist us in our journey; we could have spent ages trying to find the Sons of Malice fortress. The eldar shorten that search to only a few days. They are after something more than a new fight. As for our current enemy, we will do what we can to stop whatever plans they have for us. For now, we should accept all the help we can get and go from there. I rather face the Sons of Malice with more help than no support what so ever."

Lina agrees, "There is a benefit to this for all of us, my love. I understand your frustration towards them, but we will need any help we can receive if it means accepting their assistance."

Lucas refuses to accept the Tau for help. He says, "If you want them coming with us, fine. But I promise you this. If it comes down to you, the mission, or stopping them from converting any of the soldiers, I won't hesitate to let you die."

Max nods his head in agreement and takes his leave. Lucas sighs heavily; he turns to Lina to see a worried look in his eyes.

She says, "I have only seen you upset when in battle, but not like this. What really happen that day you and your unit were captured by the Tau?"

Lucas feels his heart full of sorrow and says, "That was the day I became the new sergeant of Commander Vance. It happened after only a week of xeno treatment from the Tau; it didn't kill me nor break me. I saw it change my fellow comrades and former sergeant. I was left alone as I watched each of them slowly accept the offerings from the Tau. I remember how each one of them left me alone to myself. It was only later that I hated the Tau so strongly as I do the orks."

He continues, "Each person that left me that fateful day has never left my thoughts. Michael left us when they offer amnesty; he jumped at the chance to be unshackled. Kelly was given water and happily agreed to fight for them; she was probably the last person you expect to give up. Paul ate the food they had given us; he ate three times from them before joining their cause. Sarah was persuaded to fight for a righteous cause in the name of all good; it is hard for her to run from corruption. Andy, Tom, and Barry left once they were allowed to study their advanced weapons; they were the technology group that forbid many practices of such knowledge. Carol, Amy, and Natasha were praised for their beauty; I figured that would be the last thing any woman of the imperial army would go for. They all betray the Emperor one by one; it didn't take much for them to give in and be comfortable with their new found allies. The only two left was me and my sergeant. I figured he would show me and the imperium why we remain true to the Emperor. In the end, he did the worse thing possible. We were only half through the solar week before I saw my sergeant do the worse thing possible. During a dark night, we both awoke to the sound of the door opening. A regular soldier walked in and took us to the outside. We both were cut free of the rope; they left us. I followed the words of my superior to the letter on how we would escape. We managed to get far until he suggested we split up. After an hour went by, I was caught by patrols. One of the same fire warriors came to me with no helmet; she was trying to use her offers, her charms, and her looks to win me over. I refused to give in each time she tried. As they wait, my sergeant walked up. I should've see something was wrong since he wasn't tied up by his hands; I watched him walk over and happily locked lips with the xeno woman. The last words he told me before I was knocked out 'Some species can offer you more than what you know'. I woke up hours later to hear the same people laugh, talk, and enjoy the company of their xeno allies. In that moment of weakness, I was ready to obliterate them from this life and the next. My chance came to me when the camp was attacked by imperial forces. This is how Vance and I met; he didn't understand my rage at the time. All he remembered was me taking a pistol and lasrifle with me. I hunted down each of my unit and personally killed each one with my hands. The only person left was my sergeant; he and his lover escaped. To this day, I always hated the Tau as much as I do the orks; however, since Max has been more foolish in his attempts to charm Kayleth. Because of his actions, I choose to stay out of it."

Lina holds her lover and says, "That was a long time ago. Things were difficult for you at the time. Now, you have me here with you. The Tau may have ideas for us, but I will stand with you against the enemy till the end."

Lucas holds her tightly and prays that all will be well. Carl finds himself accepting the last orders of the supply check. He retires to his home and finds an unexpected surprise there. His door is open slightly; he walks in with his gun drawn. Once inside, the door closes. He turns and finds the same Tau woman before him. Though mostly in her gear, she smiles to see him alert and ready.

He says, "What are you doing here?"

She replies, "I overstep my limit. I didn't know you and the eldar warrior are joined."

Carl raises an eye brow and laughs as he places his weapon away, "If you believe Shelia and I are joined together, then you have been misinformation. She is a close friend of mine when she is not busy with her own kind. We train together and fought together more times than you know of. I know her well enough to trust her, but you I just met…"

Carl finds the Tau warrior close to him; she touches his face with some happiness.

Kina says, "Then, you are free to be with whom you wish? I have long desire a mate."

He burst out laughing hysterically, "You just met me. I can't be the one for you. Even if I was attracted to you, it will take time to get to know you and we would have to spend time together."

She presses up against him hard. Carl nearly allows every nerve in his mind to go wild.

Kina takes his hands and says, "I will do what I can to show you that you are the one I need in my life. I leave this with you and must return to my home. May I acquire your name?"

He answers, "I am Carl of the imperial guardians. Before you leave, how did you know where I live at?"

Kina shakes his hand and reveals a small device that was planted on his suit. She apologies as much as she can for not telling him sooner. Carl finds it intriguing, but forewarns her about implanting any device on him. She finally takes her leave of him; Carl takes a moment to eye her appearance hard. Though a xeno to him, Carl thought she is a little too forward with her advances. As night time comes, the Tau work throughout the night to restore their ship. Aun El Rai maintains the morale as he speaks of their time coming. Shas'O Kais keeps his troops in order and have them patrol daily around the crash site. As the imperial army enjoys most of the night, several groups of imperial guardians watch for any signs of trouble from the Tau. Each group reports the same activity to Lucas. With nothing else unusual to report, Lucas turns in for the night and keeps his word to Lina and Max that all will be settled when the time comes. The eldar meditate on the daily affairs of their training and thoughts; many feel drawn to watch over and guide the Tau forces; however, they sense a much greater plan. Veldoran and his warlocks let the warp flow through them easily. Shelia and the banshee squads stand silently. Elenwe keeps her thoughts focused. Lastly, Kayleth mediates on what will happen to her now.

In the confides of his quarters, Max finds himself at odds with not only his friend but what they must face. He feels tremendously unsure as to how it will go for his friends and allies. With nothing else to keep his awake, he rests his weary thoughts. Time fades and many more things will come to light by tomorrow morning. Like before, the sun shines over the horizon. The light from the sun brightens up the tower. The tech-priests begin to ring the bells. Each noise sings to all that the time has come. As everyone becomes mobile and active, a new surprises comes to all who look into the sky. Just beside the War Harbinger, a Tau vessel floats next to it. Many see it as a wonderful sight; others see it as a challenge or threat. Max rushes to the center as fast as he can to calm the situation before it gets out of hand. He finds Lucas ready to strike down the Ethereal. Shas'O Kais stands ready to defend him.

Aun El Rai says, "We apologies for the deception. Since the attack, we don't reveal our true numbers until we can trust our new allies."

Max looks to Lucas and he replies, "You are right to do what is required of you; however, in order for me to trust you, everything must be on the table. Never tell me a lie again or you all can die for your Greater Good."

Aun El Rai and Shas'O Kais thank him for his firm warning. Max and Lina pull him and the imperial forces away. With nothing else left to do, everyone prepares to hear the news. The tech-priests, engineers, the tech teams, and repair men all present Lina with news on their project for the beacon. Everything they have fought for has now come to this. Will the journey outside of the halo zone be a safe trip? What will they imperial army face? Are the eldar and Tau going with them? None can say for what the future holds. Max, Carl, and Lucas gather the captains together to hear the news from Lina's project. The next mission will begin soon.