Dawn of War: Where They Belong
On a new planet, everything will be a challenge. The land must be livable and oxygen must be at the right level. Though food and resources can easily be found, the real challenge comes from dealing with an inhabitants that occupy the planet.
Chapter 3: Section 3 - 1
The soft grass is motionless and the air is cool to the skin. Each step brings them pass a sight that many have seen once before. To many others, this is a surprise like none other. The stains of red liquid cover many sections of the land. A head is missing here and the legs are over there. There is a pile of bodies laying in the center of the area. Carl instructs the strike team to begin torching the ork piles as fast as they can. The last thing they want is more orks to come back from the dead bodies. Suu keeps her team on alert status as they nervously advance. A few fire warriors look at the dead and examine the wounds. Every single wound was caused by a blade or warp powers. Carl looks over the area and smiles with some delight.
He turns to his team, "Looks like the eldar are back in the war effort. Let's hope they left us some orks to take out. Five of you stay here to continue burning the bodies. The rest of you on me. We are moving forward."
Suu pulls at Carl's shoulder, "Are you sure we should advance? How can we trust the eldar after all of this?"
Carl looks to her, "The eldar are vicious when they strike silently; they are not here for us. We will advance, but we will also be careful too."
As they continue with their plan, an update comes to Carl from Lord General Militant Turner.
Lucas reports: "Carl, we are getting reports from the scouts about eldar sightings. Find their leader and see what is going on. Turner out."
Carl and his team keeps going ahead with the tau traveling close behind. Suu receives a contact from Commander Shas'O Kais.
He reports: "Fire warriors, take caution. The eldar in the area are attacking the orks. Step cautiously and only engage if they attack. The eldar commander is to be located. Good hunting."
The journey brings Carl and Suu to a new area. It is the same as before. Not a single ork is alive and moving. All of them are dead. They report their findings to Lucas and Shas'O Kais. Lucas is pleased with the results, but Kais believes this is a trap. Once the imperial army and tau forces are set, they advance forward to the first ork base. It didn't take long for them to start torching the area of all ork bodies they find. Lucas is glad for the eldar involvement; however, Shas'O Kais didn't believe for a moment that the eldar are here to help.
Lucas walks over, "I didn't think the eldar would be here before us. At least we are stuck on clean up duty. So, we may not get much action."
Kais harshly says, "These eldar are going to want something more than just simple words of appreciation. I can give them more than just a show of how much we appreciate their help and don't require their service since everything is deceiving."
As the armies continue to move deeper in, Carl and Suu hear gun fire nearby. They rush to the area; they find eldar guardians and dire avengers keeping their head down as a few orks try to roast them. Carl and Suu move in and provide relief for them. Once the fighting is over, Carl and Suu meet with Shelia.
He says, "I was wondering if your people got too frighten to fight. What has been new with you?"
Shelia bows and answers, "We are here to eliminate the ork threat to us. It seems the tau and your own army had the same idea. But, we have only one base left. Kayleth will be leading the strike soon. These orks were strays from where she is attacking. Now, we are going back to finish this problem."
Before she can move, Suu asks, "So, what are the eldar doing here? I hope you don't believe that providing help absolves you of any past failures."
Shelia steps to Suu with her blades ready. Before they can engage, Carl steps between them.
He says, "I just want to speak with Kayleth and find out what is going on. Ever since we left, we didn't know if you were still around or moved on."
With the ork threat still alive, Shelia agrees to bring the group to Kayleth. Suu is far from being cooperative and Carl wants to understand what is happening. At the front of the army, Kayleth removes her blade from an ork's head. With the last of their teams dealt with, they would now go on the offensive. The eldar keep their base well hidden, but the tension among certain individuals is high. Kayleth issues out orders for the last of her kin until other members from craft world Ctho ignore her authority. Many stand by and wait for Xiwe to return. Upon their arrival at the eldar base, Shelia brings the pair inside.
Carl says, "It is good to see many new faces, but they each have unique designs for clothing. What unit are they?"
Suu and her squads keep close to their human allies. They feel nervous to stand around both eldar clans.
She turns to Shelia, "Where is Kayleth? It is urgent that we speak with her at once."
Shelia smiles and leaps away with a graceful dance. Out from a warp portal, Kayleth steps forward.
She looks to Carl and Suu, "Whatever it is, there is no time for it. We have more pressing matters than to hear from you."
Before Carl can speak, Suu interrupts, "What brings you out here? We are looking into the ork solution and stand ready to eliminate them."
Kayleth replies, "Then, you are wasting time. The orks will fall to us and we will claim victory here. Go back to your tower and stay behind your ethereal's cloth."
Suu nearly aims her pulse rifle at Kayleth only for Carl to stop her.
He says, "This isn't the time nor the place for any of us to start fighting among each other. We have orks to kill and our army will be here shortly. Allow us to make things easier for you."
Kayleth considers the idea and keeps the eldar on standby despite the small protest from the other eldar of Ctho. After time goes on, the roaring sound of imperial transport tanks roll up. The hovering noise of the tau hover vehicles land just nearby. They pile out of the transports and enter the eldar camp. Though friends and allies of the eldar come to greet each other, they are surprised to see new faces among them. The imperial army greets the eldar of craft world Alaitoc, but the eldar of Ctho gladly show them hostilities. Many soldiers back off and keep their caution from the new eldar. Lucas and Shas'O Kais move ahead of everyone and greet their long absent leader.
Lucas says, "It is nice to see that you can always expect new eldar to be surprised by how friendly humans can be. Nice to see you too, Kayleth. I hope your kind has been well."
Kais keeps his cannons charged up as the new eldar look at him with steady hands.
He says, "Order your soldiers to stand down. They are not going to be harmed unless they force our hand."
Before Kayleth can speak, a warp portal opens and out comes Xiwe with her warlocks.
She says, "hmph, this is disappointing. I knew you had dealings with the lower life-forms, but now they come to beg us for salvation."
The very words strike a serious cord with Lucas and Shas'O Kais. Before anyone gets a horrible thought, Carl pleads with both sides to keep the peace. Suu watches him closely as he stands between a cannon from her commander and the blades from the eldar.
He says, "I understand that we have some new faces among the eldar and things are different. How about we deal with the orks than worry over minor issues?"
Xiwe steps to Carl, "And who are you, pitiful mon-keigh? You dare speak to me as though you are my equal?"
Carl turns to the eldar with a serious look in his eyes. He waves his hand at the others to not interfere.
Carl says, "I am of the imperial guardian. My name is Carl. You would do well to remember that when you have need of someone saving you. We have come here under a banner of truce to speak with you and Kayleth. If this is the path of the eldar under your command, then we shall no longer bother with asking for your appearance. I stand here before you unafraid. You can bark your orders at your kin, but we are here for the orks. So, with that said, we will take our leave of you. Let us go, Lord General Turner and follow us, Commander Kais. The eldar are unworthy of our time."
As he tries to turn and walk away, Xiwe moves in front of him. She looks into his eyes as Carl keeps everyone from firing at the eldar with a wave of his hand. Xiwe looks at him and stares into the core of his eyes. She sees something there, but there is a moment. She nearly smiles at him and raises her lance. With the back of the blade, she taps Carl on his shoulder's. Suu grips her rifle hard and stands ready to rush upon her.
Xiwe says, "Carl. That is your name? I shall remember it and only speak to you when I have something to tell you."
Carl is at a loss for words, but Suu steps in front of him with her rifle ready to fire.
Suu says, "As he told you, your kind is unworthy of our time. We take our leave of you to deal with the orks."
Xiwe looks to Carl, "What makes her believe that she can speak among us? Is she not your pet?"
Suu aims the rifle under her chin and pulls a pin from her plasma grenade, "This 'pet' will end your life, eldar witch!"
Carl waits and watches. Xiwe quickly knocks her grenade into the air and disables her rifle. Once done, she walks away with the eldar moving their base away from the others. Kayleth waits a moment and only gives an apology for the hasty action done by Xiwe. Once she leaves, the imperial army and tau forces set up a strike base for the last assault on the ork base. As the companies of tau and imperial soldiers march out, Carl and Suu stand before their leaders. The tension is high, but they know who is to blame.
Lucas says, "Well, the eldar have a new farseer that is truly vicious with her words and more dangerous than Kayleth is. I appreciate what you did Carl, but you are to never risk yourself like that again. You are a good soldier and we don't need their help since they do not seek to cooperate."
Shas'O Kais adds, "We do not require the aid of the eldar any more. It is clear that they are on a different path than before. I am proud of your dedication today, but you must not challenge her. Suu, continue your task with Carl and report back afterwards. We all will have things to discuss once this is over."
As the two salute their leaders, the roaring sound of the orks come to all. At the front, the land is covered in flames by the torch boys of Scorcha. He is seen roaring and leading the charge against the alliance. Tau fire warriors and imperial guardians take cover by their armored vehicles to avoid the flame throwers. A handful of them manage to get off some shots, but the orks are far from done. As they come to the front, they twist and turn their body. In their hands, they hold tight to a ball of metal and fire. The groups of orks continue to keep spinning until enough momentum is acquired. The orks toss metal napalm spheres at the alliance. Each toss is well over seventy-five yards away from the orks. The eyes look up and see the burning objects come at them. Even with the few orks in front of them, they didn't believe the enemy would be so reckless. They all scatter from the armored only to witness the destruction. A few vehicles explode upon contact.
Chapter 3: Section 3 - 2
The view is chaotic and hellfire is everywhere. The hard steps crush the soil; they run as fast as their legs would carry them. Each explosion throws them into the dirt, but they receive the help they need. A toss of a special grenade is thrown ahead of the allies. Upon contact, the air is instantly cold. The heat and explosion die off quickly. The orks toss more metal spheres of fire only to see them countered by tau technology. As they pull the humans out from the fire and away from the danger, a new device is appears ahead of them. High on the mountain at the strike base, the tau fire off their new technology.
Each blast lands in front of the alliance and a wall of protection comes up. The barricade bomb is successful, but it will only last long enough to get the wounded back to safety. The orks continue to push in and move up more only to stop in the tracks. They roar for a physical brawl and close contact. Suu and Carl look at the front to see many in pain. Many suffer from second degree burns and others are covered in minor wounds. Only a handful are burned from the explosions and dead from the fire. The sight saddens them both, but the anger is there. Carl takes over the leadership quickly and does what he can. Suu joins him and issues out orders.
He says, "Get those who are suffering from second degree burns to the medics asap. All other soldiers are to be ready to move on my order."
She adds, "Get the wounded back and make sure we are ready to go shortly. We must fall back to the base."
Carl looks up and sees a single metal sphere coming down by the base. He shouts for the others to look out and runs to tackle a nearby tau fire warrior. He manages to save one, but two others and three guardsmen feel the explosive impact. He stands up and looks down to see them suffer. They are in pain. The roar of the orks forces Carl to look ahead. Here they come. With his eyes locking on the first three, he takes a few steps by the wounded soldiers. He reaches for the bolter pistols and continues to move forward. Suu looks ahead and watches him boldly step to the orks that are charging. A second ork throws a small flame grenade at him. The bomb explodes and blows wind pass his legs. He is unfazed by it.
He looks at the targets and lines them up. With quick hands, Carl uses the bolter pistols to take shots at the orks. Two orks go down from a head shot. He spins to the side and takes two more shots. Two more die quickly as he advances. A single guardswoman joins Carl with a bolter machine gun at her side. It is heavy, but she manages to hold it. Carl and the single guardswoman hold back the few batches of orks with ease. Every shot goes through the head and puts the orks down. Once the damage is done, they resume their regular operations. Many guardsmen walk by the burned victims and hear them scream in pain. Suu looks on to see Carl holding his guns. She goes over and calls to him.
She says, "That was bold, but you can't risk yourself like that again. You could've died."
Carl puts his head to the ground and listens. The rumble is soft; he knows what is coming.
He says, "I hope you are ready because they will be here shortly. We have ten minutes top."
Suu didn't understand what he meant until the screaming of the orks is heard in the distant land. Carl urges everyone that is left to hold the line here until Lucas and Shas'O Kais can bring them better support. Every imperial soldier scrambles to get ready. Suu issues out the special grenades as fast as she can. They would not let the orks burn away the set up. She finds Carl helping a soldier.
Suu says, "We are ready with our special grenades. They will keep the area clear of fire."
Carl replies, "We've got to hold this area. Lucas will be here soon with some help. He told me that Shas'O Kais may surprise the enemy too. So, we hold."
She wants to press him for more words, but Carl says, "It can wait until after we kill the orks. And yes, after this over, you can treat me to our victory."
Before her reply is heard, the time is up. A powerful roar shakes the sky. Carl, Suu, the imperial army and tau fire warriors all look to the front of their holding zone. They look out into the land and see him with the smoke coming off his body. He stands with his boys and gives another mighty roar. Ork Scorcha is smiling at his hew prey.
Scorcha says, "Look at dez humies!"
A woman and tau fire warrior is brought to the front of the orks. They are shoved to the ground in front of the ork chief. Scorcha turns on his flame thrower and aims at the pair. The view of them being set on fire is shocking to all. Suu whispers a pray to them, but Carl gladly lets his voice be heard.
He shouts, "You've come to die, ork. This land will be your grave and I'll take your head."
After he stops using his flame thrower, Scorcha roars, "You dink ya can figh me? Ha, I lik ta see you'z try it. I'm war chief Scorcha. Dis ere will be my world. Prepar ta die, littl humie. You'z ar mine."
Carl steps from behind his cover and points at the ork. Scorcha laughs and roars for the charge to begin. Carl stands calmly as Suu begs him to get back into cover. He looks back and orders everyone to hold. Every eye looks at the unstoppable might of the orks coming at them. A beautiful tide of green muscle covers the land after fifty yards. Carl continues to urge everyone to hold. Many are nervous and some are ready. The tau stand ready and willing. As the orks come closer, the tau activate their special grenades and time their throwing. Once close enough, each tau warrior throws the special grenade. The air and ground in front of them turns to a cooler atmosphere. The orks try to use their flame throwers only to see small amounts of fire shoot out. As the las-rifles and pulse rifles fire at the enemy, the imperial army advances on the enemy. The orks quickly rush forward and pull their axes out.
After too many orks die in front of the holding zone, many switch to their swords and engage the enemy. The clanking noises ring loudly as the tau keep back to watch the shedding of blood. A guardsman slashes an ork arm off and another runs the sword through the face. One ork slams his axe down on a soldier and whirls around to knock down more guardsmen. In the center of the battle, Carl plunges his sword into the face of an ork. He turns his head to see many soldiers struggle to hold on. As the wounded troops back away, Carl sees him stomp to the front. With two wounded soldiers in his hands, he throws them to the ground. The soldiers limp back to the imperial side. Scorcha growls and smirks at his target. He looks at no one else and points at him.
Scorcha points at Carl, "You da humie dat wants ta figh me? Well, ere I iz, humie chump."
Carl rips off his torn shirt. He stands ready to to fight Scorcha hand to hand if the need rises.
He says, "You are lucky it is going to be one on one. My friends will take care of your orks."
The loud noise of an imperial horn screams across the landscape. Everyone looks to the rear and sees Lucas waving his hand forward. As the imperial army charges, they are accompanied by kroot warriors and kroot packs. He leaps high into the sky and scans the target around the area. After locking on the massive parties, he fires rockets at the brutes. The XV8 Crisis battle suit pair follow in the same manner as their commander. The orks roar one final time before a wave of explosives send many of them flying. Carl keeps his focus on Scorcha. With his determination unshaken, he throws down his guns and pulls out his combat knife. Scorcha roars with joy and does the same as the orks, humans, tau, and kroot battle around them. Before Carl can advance, Suu comes up and fires several rounds at the beast. The shots only enrage the ork chief and forces him to charge. Carl leaps to the side only to see Suu try her best to take the fight to the ork. She leans to the side and counters with the butt of her rifle. The attack only gives the ork joy.
Carl looks up to see Suu grabbed by her throat. She pulls out her combat knife and stabs the ork in the arm. Before the worse can happen, she manages to break the knife into the arm of Scorcha. He drops her only to surprised her with a strong counter. Scorcha rams his fist into her stomach and forces her down. With one final kick to her side, he forces her down to the ground. The fire inside of him awakens and gives him courage. He gets up and sees a small ork piece in front of him. Carl rushes for the object and carries the metal piece as a shield. Suu feels her body nearly break from the force. She looks up to see Scorcha rip out the blade and kick her to the side. The ork chief turns to see a metal object collide into his face. With surprising strength, Carl manages to force the ork to stagger to the left. The duel between man and ork continues as before. As Scorcha tries to get his bearings, Carl rushes at him again. He swings his combat knife at the brute and keeps him on the defensive.
The ork chief uses his knife to block the strikes and shoves Carl back. Scorcha brings his knife up quickly, but Carl surprises his foe. He slides just under the blade. Scorcha stumbles forward with a slash on his leg. Carl turns around and throws his knife at the ork. The method works for Carl, but now he is defenseless. With rage in its eyes, Scorcha roars as he removes the knife and moves at his opponent. As they swing at each other, Carl feigns his attack and rolls behind him. Scorcha roars and feels something placed on him. He tries to reach for it, but the device blips three times before going off. The small bomb technique works and gives Carl an opening. He sees his knife on the ground; Scorcha falls to the ground on his knees. He tries to stand and continue; the next attack on him is fatal. Carl manages to stab the ork by its throat constantly. Suu looks up to hear and see the death cry of an ork. Her sight locks on a human finishing off the ork chief Scorcha.
With the ork chief dead and the hunting parties chasing after the others, the alliance achieves victory. The inferno squads of the imperial army burn and torch any ork bodies they encounter. Tau fire warriors use a similar method to reduce any ork body down to worthless particles. As Lucas and Shas'O Kais issue out the last of the orders, they come to find Suu being patched up by Carl with medics for both of them standing by. Carl, Suu, and the others salute their leaders. Lucas comes to shake the hand of the man who killed ork chief Scorcha.
Lucas shouts, "You are one crazy imperial guardian! That's what the hammer of the imperium is all about! The space marines don't got jack on us!"
Carl laughs and proudly adds, "That ork chief was tough, but he didn't have a brain at all. It is no wonder he got this planet. Now is the time to truly turn this planet into the first imperial world. Wait, have we done that already?"
Lucas thinks back to when they did discover this planet, but it occurs to him that they never did properly declare this world apart of the imperium.
Shas'O Kais speaks to Suu, "You must be more careful when facing the enemy. You are a valuable member to the fire warriors. Congratulations on your mission; the orks will no longer plague us."
Suu salutes and replies, "The mission was dangerous, but I had Carl keep me safe against the ork. I will fill you in on the details about the battle along with the other matters. We need to return back to the fortress and see what will be our next plan."
As the leaders finish up their mission, she continues to watch over him. She eats when possible and sleeps when she can. The warp spells around him keep him locked in his place for as long as it can. The daemon hands bleed warp blood since the recent burst. Now she sees something interesting. Though vulnerable, she is able to still stand and move. She walks over to him. Upon seeing his face, she is at a loss.
The silent woman thought, "He is smiling?...Why does he smile?...Why?"
As Max lays trap in the warp spells unaware of the events around him, the woman is curious as to why he is smiling. She continues to watch him with careful and steady hands. As much as she wanted to end his life, the plan to use Max is still apart of Malice's grand design.
They march back with their head high in the sky. No more orks until much later. They now can use this moment to correctly fortify the planet as the new and first home to the imperium. On the other hand, the planet can be used as a tau expansion for the growing empire. It didn't take long for them to send the soldiers off for scouting and exploration. Lucas, Carl and Lina gather their best officers to join them. Aun El Rai, Shas'O Kais and Suu bring their negotiators with them. The leaders and second-in-command of both tau and imperial gather at the shore of the great ocean. They had much to discuss about the future. Once everyone was accounted and present, the discuss starts off with Aun El Rai and Lucas.
El Rai says, "The future of the tau is showing promise and prosperity. With the enemy gone from here, the imperial army can begin their plans for exploration and discovery. The tau will honor their request and leave the planet to search for a new home for ourselves. We shall not forget our friends that have been there for us."
Lucas adds, "I understand your people are anxious to find a new planet to grow on, but until we know the ork threat is completely gone, you have a place here with us. This planet will service as what it is. For now, we must stay alert and ready. But, the first order of business is naming this planet. Since we landed here, we haven't had much time to name this world. So, before we go forward, let's give this new home a proper name."
One woman sergeant says, "The planet is already going to be an imperial planet. So, I say call it Reach."
A tau diplomat replies, "Your Lord General has agreed to let our people stay. Why not name the planet something more worthy? I suggest a name similar to the tau home world."
Carl interrupts, "I am sure we have more than enough time to come up with a proper name for this planet. The real question now is where are the Sons of Malice. We have been fighting orks a lot and not once have they appeared to fight us."
Suu adds, "For now, we can enjoy the time of peace. What are..?"
The gathering is interrupted by a sudden web way portal opening. Right before their eyes, Xiwe, Veldoran, Shelia, and Kayleth step forward.
Chapter 3: Section 3 - 3
The time for exploring is high and much is ready to be found. There is a whole galaxy that has planets ready for colonization. From planets of ice to hellfire worlds, the discovery is limitless. All throughout the new galaxy, they have a variety to pick and choose from. On the first planet, the forces of order set up a fair defense and manage to hold their own. After the ork threat is destroyed, the tau and imperial army celebrate. They now have a whole world to change into something better for the future of man and xeno allies alike. As the meeting got underway, the eldar of craft world Alaitoc and Ctho join the leaders unexpected. Lucas, Carl, Lina, Aun El Rai, Shas'O Kais, and Suu didn't plan on including Kayleth, Veldoran, Shelia and Xiwe. The gathering soon changes the mood for some. The humans watch as the tau warriors aim their weapons at the eldar. In response to them, the eldar hold their palms at the young xenos. Lucas and Carl happily ask all to relax.
Carl says, "Calm yourselves, tau warriors. They are here with us under a banner of peace. There is no need to fight each other."
Lucas says, "Kayleth, you and your kind haven't been around us a lot. Why did you show up now?"
Kayleth answers, "I insisted on coming here to represent myself, but 'someone' wanted to see how your gatherings would go."
Xiwe steps forward, "So, you are around the younglings and primitives to see how they fail to do anything worthy of our attention? I should've stayed at the Faded Light."
Aun El Rai steps to her, "This place is for us to discuss the fate of the humanity and the tau. You can show yourself way out since you have your own ways."
Xiwe uses her warp powers on Aun El Rai. Shas'O Kais turns his energy cannon on full blast and fires at Xiwe. The blast forces her to slide backwards. Carl, Lucas and Lina back up as the two combatants step away from the others.
Shas'O Kais roars, "That will never happen again. You have crossed the line for the last time."
As he powers up the suit, Xiwe replies, "You are too young to understand what you are facing. I hope you won't disappoint me."
Xiwe brings her powers to bare against the charged up tau commander. Shas'O Kais fires his cannons at her only to see her take to the sky. Xiwe flies upward and throws down her lance. Upon impact in front of Shas'O Kais, he feels a tremendous surge of power fry some of his circuits. The tau commander falls back and suffers from various system problems. Xiwe lands back on the ground and moves in to finish him off. Just as she attempts to land the final blow, Shas'O Kais activates his shield. The tech works and easily cancels out any warp attack Xiwe uses on him. He uses the shield again and it sends out a small blast that throws back the eldar witch. Shas'O Kais stands back on his feet with both cannons ready. Xiwe recovers and charges up her powers once again. Before they could damage the area further, Lucas and Carl step forward. Even Kayleth steps in front of Xiwe.
Kayleth says, "This fight is pointless and serves no purpose. Are you going to stoop to their level of intelligence to prove your superiority?"
Xiwe roars, "How dare you put me on their level?"
Lucas informs her, "You just did when you tried to harm the tau leader. If this is your new path for the eldar, then I will insist you stand down. The tau are here to help us and we will help them."
As the eldar back away, Suu and Aun El Rai stand annoyed and enraged. The nerve of the eldar is bold, but far from forgiven.
Shas'O Kais says, "Those long ear eldar will remember to never raise a hand on our ethereal ever again. Whatever they tried to do to Aun El Rai shall not be forgotten."
Suu adds, "I will gladly eliminate all the eldar if they so much as walk by my ethereal. I didn't cross dark space to be stranded here with no hope."
Carl calms them down as the honor guards move around Aun El Rai. Not once did they keep their hands away from the trigger. All members of the honor guard keep their rifle aimed at the eldar. Lucas, Carl, and even Lina do their best to keep the xeno groups separated. Carl agrees to speak with the tau at their headquarters. Lucas implores the eldar to retreat back to their own base. With the meeting going sour, everyone retreats back to their own territory. Carl and Lucas meet after time goes by; they discuss how each will handle the tau and eldar. There is heavy tension between the two xenos.
Lucas says, "I hope we can gain the cunning eldar support. It would seem a lot has happen to them and authority is not as firm as it seems. I will be the speaker for our own kind and keep the eldar away from them. Ugh, I can't believe I am doing what Max should be doing."
Carl agrees, "Yes, the eldar have a new person who now oversees a lot of the plans for their kind. I wonder what happen between Kayleth and the new eldar. The eldar of Alaitoc seem good with us, but the new followers are not all that relaxed with us."
Lina steps to them, "The eldar and tau are both enemies of our empire, but we may need their services for later. By the Omnissiah, I can't believe what I am processing and believing. If we only had Max with us, this would be better."
All three of them look to the empty space. Lucas, Lina, and Carl wish that Noble One Max Johnson was present with them to help them with this campaign. The sight of him not here causes them to be sad and feel that this is going to be more than just a hectic time. With a firm look, Lucas looks to those he can rely on.
He says, "We can do this. Max may not be here, but we can do this. I will convince the eldar to continue working with us regardless of how I feel."
Carl and Lina nod their head to do the best they can for the imperium of man. They no longer think of expanding their empire of man. All they would do is fight for their survival and ensure their future will be great. Lucas takes a few honor guards with him to the eldar base; Carl allows a small imperial guard unit to travel with him to the tau fortress. Lina continues her daily work for the check-ups on the resources found. The flow of data is grand and extraordinary. Most of the resources and material found is similar to the milky way. As the imperial army continues to scout, explore, gather, and learn, the most challenging part comes to them.
He walks over with his unit to see the massive towers ready and alert. High on the wall, they all look down and scan the humans in front of the gate. The scan reveals who they are watching. With a wave of the hand, Carl and his unit are allowed to step inside. The massive gate opens up and they all smile slightly. The tau civilians welcome the imperial escort and Carl. Before he can call for anyone, she welcomes him with more than just a greeting.
Suu says, "Hello, Carl. I am glad you are here to see us."
The attire Suu wears is slightly revealing, but it covers the important parts. Carl keeps his mind on business. As he walks over and tries to shake her hand, Suu wraps her arms around him. The soldiers with Carl nearly call him heretic until he pulls away from Suu.
He says, "Are you trying to get me killed? I understand you are still interested in me, but your stunt has...oh for the love of the emperor!"
As he turns around, Carl sees many of the tau women and men speak to the guardsmen about their day; in fact, the conversations range from their gear to their loyalty. Carl shouts and orders them to stand outside of the fortress. The majority of them leave and stand guard outside, but only one stays behind. He nearly blocks out everything once said about the imperium. Carl aims his handgun at the soldier and fires a round by his foot. The shot forces him to regain his focus.
Carl walks to him, "Maybe you didn't hear me when I said wait outside. So, how about we go ahead and see if your death will set the example?"
The soldier quickly replies, "Sorry sir. No example will be required. I will remain outside of the gate with the others."
The soldier hurries back to the others. As the tau bow and take their leave, Carl returns his sight back to Suu. She seems too happy to see him and wonders why this is happening.
She says, "I am glad you are here to see us. I was going to greet you at the base in the south, but you caught me unprepared here. I...I don't know...what to say..."
Carl answers, "I am here to speak with your leaders about your current occupation here. There is more to it and the details must be made known. Can you take me to them?"
Although Carl is serious, Suu can't help but feel sooth when she looks at him. Suu walks up to him with her eyes locked on him. As everyone else goes about their daily routine, Suu finds herself lost in his eyes. He calls to her again and informs her of the issue.
Suu touches his shoulder, "I will take you to them, but not when I am unfocused. Can we take a walk before I bring you to them? I need to tell you something."
He replies, "It can wait until after the meeting is over. I promise to hear you out."
She nods her head and takes him through the fortress. Carl looks at the wonder military buildings and scoffs under his breath. There are hardly any turrets to protect them. The further he goes in, the more he sees the more civil area. From buildings of technology to small structures of study, Carl is nearly taken in by the appearance of the base. Once they arrive at the tower, Suu speaks to the guards and allows them to finish what she could not. Carl continues to watch surroundings until a honor guard taps his arm; he turns around to see Suu is missing. The honor guard escort Carl inside and take him to the ethereal. As they step inside, Carl is impressed with the place. From the bottom, a set of stairs are in front of him. Carl follows the honor guard up to a massive area for the important people. At the left side, Shas'O Kais keeps his military officers at peace. On the right, more diplomats speak with refine rhetoric. The chatter is intense as Aun El Rai sits at the head of the gathering.
Shas'O Kais roars, "The eldar have made an attempt on the ethereal. Aun El Rai, please listen to reason. They can not be trusted nor should we include them in any part of the future. They are as slippery as their tongue is; all their words are full of lies and deception. The eldar of these craft worlds will serve no future worth having. Our best chance is to convince the humans that the Greater Good will be here to out last all of the others. Our cause is righteous as their own. We will continue to fight for the sake of the future."
As others on both sides agree, a diplomat replies, "Our cause for destroying the eldar is just; however, we must not do so out of revenge. They can still be a wise and powerful addition to our empire. I urge that we send over envoys to speak with their kind. The use of this 'warp' skill may prove useful for us than against us. The eldar are just use to relying on themselves than following a creed or cause that puts the whole above all other ideas. Do not dismiss them completely; I still see them as an ally to the tau. Maybe they will join our empire once they see what we can do for them."
Aun El Rai considers both side of the argument, but he sees Carl with an honor guard.
He says, "We shall put the ideas on hold for now. We have a guest from the imperial army here with us. All of you can retire."
Carl looks on to see everyone leave. Only he, El Rai, and Shas'O Kais remain in the center room.
Kais bows to him, "Carl. It is an honor to see you among us. I take it you are not here to join our cause? Your Lord General would be most displease if you didn't invite him."
He laughs and says, "I assure you that I know where my loyalty lies at. So, you can keep talking about it until your heads fall off, but I am here to see if you will consider staying longer."
Aun El Rai steps to him, "The tau are forever in your debt for what you have done for us. The only concern we have is the eldar. That witch did something to me that nearly forced my hand. I am only safe thanks to my commander. You may return to your leader and give him the good news."
Carl smirks and agrees to do so. The chat among them is short, but before he leaves, the air of mistrust is cleared.
He says, "I understand what the eldar did was wrong. I would have raised my hand against them, but I assure you that this will never happen again. You can count on it."
Chapter 3: Section 3 - 4
The feeling is strong and she does what she can to keep her thoughts in check. He came to her base and caught her off guard. Though humans and tau do have an understanding at times, this is unheard of for Suu. She manages to make it back to her own private quarters. Her whole face is still bright red and blushing. Each nerve in her being is constantly driving her to run into his arms. She breathes in heavily and exhales slowly. Her thoughts try to process what happen just that fast. The experience for her is refreshing and wonderful.
Suu thought, "Carl didn't tell me he would be coming here. He actually showed up here."
After a few more minutes of deep breathing, she relaxes and returns outside to see him being escorted off to the gate. Suu stays back and keeps her mind on her work. She nearly forgets to take her team out on a patrol to look for resources. She contacts her unit and alerts them of the delay. Suu takes this moment to adjust herself and finish up her last report. In minutes, she manages to add in her last few notes and goes to dress herself. The unit grabs their rifles off the rack; they make a few changes to the fire power. Every tau fire warrior stands ready to begin the task. After grabbing her weapon, she calls over her members.
Suu says, "Our task is simple. We scout ahead of the science teams and make sure nothing will impede their work. Let's get moving."
The tau move out into the west territory. As much as Suu keeps her mind on what she must does, her thoughts keep coming back to seeing Carl. With the tau forces still willing to work with the imperial army, the only troublesome issue left is the eldar. Lucas and his escort arrive to see a wondrous view. The eldar didn't change anything to the surroundings. The trees are still standing tall; the grass is still perfect. The only new features to the area are the eldar howling banshee warriors standing perfect. Not one of them moves a single inch since the arrival of the imperial soldiers and Lucas. He holds back his unit only to see Shelia twist and twirl in front of him. She bows to him and greets everyone.
Shelia says, "You are fortunate to see me. If I had not shown up, the others would have cut you down."
Lucas scratches his head, "What others are you talking about? I only see you and the current eldar banshees right now."
She snaps her fingers and orders the howling banshees move next to the humans. Out from the shadows, more eldar appear and with guns pointing at them. Lucas and his escorts close together, keeping an eye on all the eldar. Only Shelia and her followers move around the humans. Lucas looks around to find Shelia next to him.
He says, "What is going on here? I thought you were with us."
She replies, "The eldar of Alaitoc are with you. Only those of craft world Ctho shall cut you down. We are keeping you safe. You would do well to see Kayleth and Veldoran alone. Your escort must stay outside of the area."
Lucas agrees to the suggestion to avoid any blood shed. With a wave of his hand and the words of Shelia, the soldiers back off with the eldar of Alaitoc traveling with them. They escort them away from the area leaving Lucas alone to deal with the warp users. All the new eldar circle around him; they keep their weapons pointing at him until Shelia demands their cooperation. A single captain of the group approaches her.
The captain says, "Our orders are to eliminate any that approach us. This human is not welcome here."
She points her weapon at the captain. Lucas keeps his voice quiet and watches what will happen.
Shelia laughs, "You are not my leader. I only maintain the peace and you seek to bring ruin upon us. He is here to speak with our leaders; no one is to harm him unless you are told otherwise."
The eldar back off and disappear again from the area. Lucas breathes easy, but Shelia urges him to keep his visit short. She escorts him through the area and Lucas keeps his weapons under his cloak for the duration. All around him, the eldar of Ctho look at him as though he has disgrace them by being in the area. Many eldar of Alaitoc stand ready to stop the swift hands of any that will try to attack him. Once they clear the area, Shelia and Lucas step to familiar faces. Kayleth and Veldoran nod their head at their ally; however, Xiwe looks at a person not worth speaking to.
Kayleth steps to him, "I see you are here and not your second-in-command. What do we owe the pleasure of having you here?"
Before he can speak, Xiwe interrupts, "What makes this mon-keigh believe it can speak among us?"
Lucas replies, "Because this mon-keigh is not afraid to face danger nor run from any challenge unlike yourself."
Before another word is spoken, Veldoran says, "Let us walk to cool our tongues."
Veldoran and Kayleth walk back towards the entrance of the area to avoid causing any more trouble.
Kayleth says, "You will have to disregard the words from Xiwe. Ever since the ritual has fused the memories of Elenwe and Xi together, Xiwe is becoming more difficult."
Veldoran looks back to see eldar of Ctho look for any moment to silence Lucas.
He says, "I see the other kin want to bring you harm, so we will keep this short. What message did you bring us?"
Lucas answers, "Can we still count on your support in this new galaxy? I understand you have your own problems, but we are more than willing to accept any help."
Before either of them can speak, Xiwe appears before them.
She says, "Your time with the human is no longer worth entertaining. Leave him and his allies to their fate. We have more important matters to handle."
As Kayleth tries to speak on his behalf, Lucas reminds her that all is well. He bows his head and takes his leave of them with Shelia escorting him back out. The eldar return to their ways, but Kayleth and Xiwe still stand opposite sides.
Xiwe angrily says, "You waste our time with these primitives than keeping your mind on the future. If any other autarch saw this, they would easily take over your position and rid you of your kin."
Kayleth replies, "Well, it is a good thing I am not being evaluated by other autarchs. The only eldar that seems so concern with me is you. Your insufferable urge to control my kin is overbearing and you have overstep yourself."
Shelia halts their prattle and says, "Lucas has given us information about their next plans for the future. This planet will be claimed for their empire, but they are willing to alter many rules for us."
Kayleth, Xiwe, and Veldoran gather to hear the interesting news. She continues, "The human and tau forces are going to search the planets in the solar system to see what they have to offer. I don't need to see what the future holds for them, but they shall be rewarded for each world they find livable."
Xiwe disagrees, "The humans will find nothing in this galaxy. There are a few worlds worth taking for our kin and reestablishing our empire. The tau will be the only problem I see for us to deal with. It would be wise to see if the humans will destroy the tau for us or be eliminated by the tau."
Veldoran suggests, "Perhaps we can keep the humans on our side and not have them turn against us. The tau could be an ally in the future if we encounter the forces of Malice. So far, the orks are the only enemy I see here. It would also do us well to search this galaxy and learn what we can. The more we understand, the better our chances will be should any situation present itself to us."
Kayleth nods her head, "I agree. There is no sense in letting the humans or the tau have any glory for finding the discoveries. And if your kin don't want to come with us, you can stay here and wait for the danger to come."
Instead of a negative reply, Xiwe accepts the idea and preps her people. With the eldar, tau and imperial forces looking to the sky, they all wonder what will come next. The journey to a new livable planet excites everyone to a degree or more. At the fortress, Lina and her teams finish up the final touches to the War Harbinger. The ship received a complete repair and overhaul on every part. The warp and FTL drive are back in full condition. As the troops begin to climb aboard their shuttle, Lucas and Lina share a private moment from everyone.
He says, "We won't be gone for too long, but this planet is safe from any ork hordes or trouble. I'm sure with the millions of people here, they won't allow any trouble to fall on them. We will be back soon. Not to mention, your improvements to the base are secure and will hold back anything. I highly doubt the eldar will show up to help."
Lina sighs, "There is still so much on this planet that we have yet to discover. I hope we are back in time to see and shape this world into a frontier for the imperium. The changes may frighten a few people since we are still allowing the tau to stay on. I hope our journey will be interesting."
Carl spends his day keeping the army busy, but he is anxious to set forth into the new galaxy. The idea of finding more life out in the galaxy is worth the risk for the advancement of the imperium. With his last few orders given, a single soldier comes to speak with him. She alerts Carl of the visitor he has waiting for him. Carl didn't take long to guess who it is that came to visit him. He heads over to the south of the gate by shuttle. Once he arrives, he finds Suu standing ready with a troubled appearance.
He comes to her, "One of my soldiers told you wanted to meet me. Is there anything new for me to pass on?"
Suu breathes hard and tries to remain standing. Carl takes notice and asks.
She says, "I will be fine, but I must speak with you at the next planet we find. It is important and I hope you will agree once you hear me out."
Carl didn't understand why the message is short, but he understands for now. After enough time has passed, the tau and imperial army finally take to the sky. Many civilians and military stand by as they watch both ships rise up. The War Harbinger and Great Spear quickly take to the orbit and the daily work aboard the ship starts. The tech-priests and engineers check the ship; the data flows to the top of the ship for Lina to go through. Carl and Lucas manage the army with routine drills, gun checks, tactics, and clever traps. On the Great Spear, tech teams and system analysts do their best to ensure their traveling in the new galaxy is safe. No more trips through dark space unless all forms of protection can be created. Shas'O Kais keeps the military up to code; kroot packs sharpen their blades for the hunt. Aun El Rai lets the ship carry his message to all levels for everyone to hear him.
Aun El Rai broadcasts: "This planet we reside on is our home. But, the galaxy we are in shall offer us a few place to expand for the Greater Good. We will continue to fight against the mad, the damn, the soulless, and the insanity; nothing will stop us and we will find victory."
The War Harbinger and Great Spear pick coordinates leading to the east. They have no idea what will be waiting for them. The first planet is secure, but no name for it has been picked yet. As the ships take off to the eastern section of the galaxy, he looks on with interest. He smiles as he closes his warp window only to clap his hands together. In the darkness of his sanctum, Balrok looks pleased with the events.
He thought, "They are still lost. The next encounter will be perfect. I look forward to seeing how well they fight now."
Balrok looks at his hands. He can still call upon the warp, but the power is not as strong as it should be. Most of his power is still being drained away thanks to the spell. If all goes accordingly, he may just have another chance to stop him.
Chapter 3: Section 3 - 5
A twist and twirl here sends the fumes across the landscape. Everything is covered in the smell of the substance. Nothing is able to grow and thrive; the area is barren and at level two to five for radiation. The whole planet is a toxic trap. Only a few areas of the planet offer level one radiation endurance. Each step they take is a dangerous one. Not one single area on the surface is safe. The risk for setting up the small observation camp is a suicide run. The tech-priests study, input, and set up the camp as best they can. He takes a step to the next spot. The meter slowly beeps and keeps him alert. He takes another step and the noise goes faster. He inhales one last time and steps again. The meter goes up. With one more step, the alarm goes up to the first level of radiation. He steps back twice and the alarm goes back. He plants his feet and takes the device from his back. The man holds the device above his head and drives it hard into the soil. Once done, he presses a few buttons to set up the final section of the shield wall. Instantly, a wave of light goes from the device. It travels from one to another device and keeps going until everything is connected. Once done, the camp is surrounded by a wall of protective shields.
Aboard the War Harbinger, Lina reports: "The first camp is a success. It will still take time to get any use out of this planet, but there is no way this is livable for any of us. Our work here is done, we can recover our tech teams from the surface. I don't want any of them exposed any longer. It is still impressive that this planet has any resources on it for us to harvest."
Lucas recalls the people from the surface. It is good they found a planet full of radiation, but it is awkward they find it heading back towards the dark region of space. The radiation travels from surface to space by the winds. It changes into solar radiation as it moves to the dark region of space with ease.
Carl says, "Well, I am sure glad we didn't land here. I hope our xeno allies have found more places worthy of expansion."
Once the team is back aboard, the War Harbinger travels to the the last area of the Great Spear. It didn't take them long to arrive. They discover the tau pulling away from a planet. Lina contacts the Great Spear.
Shas'O Kais reports: "The planet is too hot and full of volcanic activity. We must continue our search elsewhere. Perhaps the western section will have at least one more planet to see."
The ships take their leave into the western zone of the galaxy. It didn't take long for them to find a small moon. Once they are further in, they send out probes across the new galaxy. The first system is named Primarex. The planet is named Xoen. As apart of the tau agreement, they would share their planet until they found another. The probes for the tau reveal nothing, but the probes for the imperial army ping something interesting in the south region. The coordinates are set. As the ships journey to the south region of the galaxy, the morale of the tau and imperium are at an all-time high. The weapons on both ships are improved and in top condition; in fact, the vehicles are ready for any combat drop. Aboard the War Harbinger, Carl keeps his thoughts positive and every soldier is maintaining their physical health. From regular check ups to mental issues, all soldiers, ogryns, skitarii, and even non-combative teams are fit for work and duty. Lina finishes up her last check on the data before turning her eyes off the monitor. She is happy and anxious to find something new to discovered. Lucas joins her side as they take a break from their duty.
She says, "This galaxy is new with so much unlimited potential. I hope we can use all of this to support our cause. You think the tau and eldar will still go after their own missions and leave us here?"
Lucas happily replies, "If the eldar leave, that is fine with us. They have their own mission to keep their people alive. We will still use this galaxy as an expansion for the imperium. Regardless of what year it is, everything will change for us. Maybe this is the imperium we sought after this entire time. We may be breaking several regulations of the imperium with the xenos, but now isn't the time to wonder. We still know our objective."
They stare out into the void of space. He holds her greatly as they think of what comes next.
Lina says, "There is not another man I would be proud to be with. I don't know what else is out here, but we can face it together."
He adds, "Nor is there any other woman I want at my side. Once we secure this galaxy, we will do what we can to keep our people safe. I just hope our child is doing well for the imperium in the Milky Way."
As the two chat more among each other, Carl reads over his reports as he walks down the hall. He comes to a stop and sees the room where Max once resided. He sighs over it and wonders with thoughts of worry. When and where is Max at? He has to be alive and still battling the forces of darkness. Carl blocks out the thoughts of concern and worry. He continues to head up to the top deck to speak with Lucas and Lina. Although the morale of the guardsmen is high, the tau are eager and curious. In the head of the ship, Aun El Rai goes over his plans for the colonization of the next tau world. One of his advisors come by and brings up the virtual plans of how they would begin. El Rai looks over the information as seen:
"Step One: Secure a landing site and establish a forward base. Step Two: Extend out the perimeter out at least five to ten miles. Step Three: Open up the Vespid pods and establish housing zones. Step Four: Scout teams are to escort all science teams and exploration teams to any areas for study. Step Five: Ensure any possible zones are not too dangerous for settlements..."
As Aun El Rai reads through the steps, each one he sees brings him some satisfaction until he sees the optional choices they can do.
"Optional Task One: Convince the humans to join our cause. Optional Task Two: Forge an alliance against the eldar. Optional Task Three: Study the eldar technology and apply it to tau technology. Optional Task Four: Offer one final invitation to the eldar to join the Greater Good."
Aun El Rai informs one of his advisors to contact Suu and Shas'O Kais. As much as he wants to leave the plans as they are, the ethereal wants to make sure the plans are for the tau expansion. He approves of a few ideas with his advisors, but some still give him an uneasy thought. Once Suu and Shas'O Kais arrive, the real discuss begins. Shas'O Kais stands proud and glad that all is going well for the tau. Suu is still feeling not so well.
Aun El Rai turns to them, "I take it some of these other ideas are of your words and plans for the tau? If so, I would like for you to explain each one."
Shas'O Kais answers, "Yes, Aun El Rai. The military plans are of my idea since the galaxy is not completely secure. There are still a few ork clans around this galaxy. We only stopped one of them, but the others will be awaiting us. So, it is in our best interest to establish more military bases to deal with the threat if they should attack. Not to mention, most of these orks are led by one who is no fool."
Suu adds, "I only included the eldar since the humans seem set on keeping them as allies despite how this new group of eldar come off. Carl, Lucas and Lina seem so willing to trust them. Even Veldoran and Shelia have shown us that they will help if we can show them why their cause is similar to ours. I am more than willing to extend them the offer of joining our empire and becoming apart of something great. In return, they may be willing to share their technology with us."
He raises his hand and forbids them to speak any more. El Rai says, "The time for peace will always be on the table when it is appropriate. Right now, peace is not going to be possible thanks to the orks, the eldar, and the hidden Sons of Malice. Our only ally for now is the imperial army. We will deal with them all only when they engage us."
Suu breathes harder and harder only to nearly fall over. Her weaken state catches the attention of everyone. El Rai lets her retire to rest up, but it isn't the rest she needs. Suu manages to make it back to her room. She takes a drink of water, but her body still feels weak. With nothing else to do, she submits a request to her active captain to be given a sick leave. As she lays herself down, Suu finds herself unable to do much. One of her comrades come by and see her sweating more than usual. She contacts a medic to help her as best as she can. After enough time goes, the ships arrive in the south portion of the galaxy. A new set of probes go in all directions. Both ships pick up something in the distance. The War Harbinger and Great Spear journey further down south until they come to a light brown planet. With quick scans, the whole planet is nothing but a desert world. One probe from each ship is sent down to the planet. To everyone's surprise, a ping is heard. The information on the ping is quickly collected and looked over. Lina and her tech-priests analysis the data; the discovery from the ping reveals a discovery like no other. Lina informs Lucas and Carl of what she has found.
Lina says, "Thanks to the ping, it shows that there is a massive structure below on the surface. I am still wondering how anything out here in this galaxy has survived, but that is what makes it worth searching. The answer will be found once we go to the source. I also discovered from the data that a source of metal is below us. I can't wait to see what this is."
Lucas and Carl greatly smile at what they will find. A communication from the Great Spear comes to them. Lucas takes the call to see Shas'O Kais.
Kais says, "Our probe on this planet has found something quite interesting. We will gladly send our teams out with you if you have any that will go."
Lucas agrees to the idea as the ships break through the sky of the new planet. As the data shows, nothing but sand for miles around. All the shield covers open on the War Harbinger; in fact, all of level four opens it shuttle ports for everyone to look out. Everyone looks out into the opening to see the dune sea go for miles on. The air isn't as hot as it should be, but enough days without water will kill any being on this barren world. As the ship travel on, the scans of what they find are indeed a surprise.
Ahead of them by only two miles, they find a pipe made out of metal. The pipe shows air being drawn into the hole. Lina uses the computer to scan the device. The pipe is made by human hands, but the design is from a long time ago. Carl arrives to the fourth level and gazes out into the opening. He is glad to see something human made it out here this far, but it is hard to believe what the eyes see. He looks to the distance and informs level one.
He says, "I pray by the emperor that my eyes are being fooled, but I see what our probes found."
Lina and Lucas pulls up the screen; they find the source of the ping. Massive and large in size, the entire War Harbinger and Great Spear see a colossal structure. Within minutes of slow travel, they discover a Hive City. The count is unknown, but everyone is anxious to see the new faces of this city. Carl smirks at his chance to be the first person to look inside; however, Lucas offers to lead the charge this time. The air near the city smells horrid and bad, based on what data shows. With the air by the city dangerous, Lucas takes every precaution Lina can provide. An alert is sent to the tau for the expedition inside the city. Shas'O Kais agrees to join Lucas. The journey inside the city holds many secrets, but what will they find.
