Dawn of War: Where They Belong
The time it takes for change to occur is based on the possibilities that are present. The moment of change depends on the amount of opportunity that present. If there is no moment or time for change to happen, then all will continue to go on as is.
Chapter 7: Section 7 - 1
It is annoying to have a night full of fun when the head is spinning with spells of illusion. It is more dangerous to know that if too much fun happens, it can open the door way to Slaanesh. Many people end their night with words of promise for the future of mankind. Several others enjoy the coming day when all they can see is the horizon. The goal is in sight and many believe that the new imperium of mankind will be as grand as it should be for the emperor of humanity. The cautious alliance of human, tau, and eldar still stands on uneven ground; however, all is being kept together by the words of their leaders.
He rolls over in his to check the time. It is early and time is important. Max sighs to know that now he truly must be the symbol for the troops and people. Without Lucas among them, the fate of the imperial army and its citizens will hang by the treads of fate. He climbs out of bed and goes into the bathroom. It minutes, the hot water is running in the shower and he is inside. The day would be long and exhausting. The mission will be long and enduring. Many will be covered in dirt, blood, tears, and sweat. They must all do what they can to ensure that mankind will survive. Everything they do for humanity will be for the greatness of not just the imperium. It will be all done for the Emperor of Mankind. The emperor protects and they need his blessing more than ever. Once he is done showering and gearing up, Max takes one look at himself in the mirror. He sighs and thinks back to how far he came.
Max thought, "The lost of a great man can not lead us into failure. Lucas Turner was that great man who can inspire. I only hope I will live up to his example as a leader for the imperium. Things will change, but it is for the improvement of the future."
With his mind set on the tasks of exploring and scouting out the planet, there is no more time to waste thinking of what didn't happen. Max is ready and goes out the door. Upon stepping outside, he finds two captains waiting. At their side, two more officers and low ranking officials stand ready to hear his words. Max didn't mind the crowds at time, but this is surprising to know that they look to him for guidance.
One captain salutes, "We are ready and eager to continue on with any mission. What are your orders, sir?"
The officer says, "There is a bit of mistrust and disturbance among the guardsmen. How would you like us to handle this?"
A official asks, "There are several issues regarding our association with the eldar and tau forces. We require your words on the matter?"
Without giving it a second thought, he leads them with words of promise for a brighter future.
Max answers, "First, the soldiers are to continue their daily routine patrols and keep their skills at peak conditions. Everyone is allowed eight to ten hours of rest and only when there is no threat around our home. If any danger comes to us, I expect the guardsmen and guardians to be ready for any attack within less than one hour. As for the troops, each squad will travel out into the wild to escort scouts and explorers to look for new lands to settle. The troop morale issue is an easy fix. We shall stick to the standard imperial rule. Commissar Elara will be overseeing the issues and handle each one with extreme care. Her word is law as is mine. No disagreements or words of rebellion will be allowed. Any upstart that wants to leave our settlement will be allowed to go. Only when they return shall their execution be carried out."
He continues, "Lastly, the issue with us being in an alliance with the tau and eldar is as simple as walking. Right now, the tau leaders are still searching for a home for them to ground on. We shall aid them until they find one. As we aid them, we will continue to expand the imperium on several words as much as we can. Right now, we have five million people still in cryo stasis on the ship. We need to make sure they wake up to a new home for humanity. So, continue to keep the peace and make sure all goes according to plan. The mission is to expand, scout, explore, and thrive in this galaxy. Once the five settlements are setup to look like the fortress here, we will continue to move further out into this galaxy. There are ork clans still out there and the Sons of Malice will either use them or break them. That is all. Dismiss."
With everyone taking Max's words to heart, they know their duty and accept what must be done for the imperium. Though everything is well, other surprises come to Max as he goes to find three people.
At the zone of technology and knowledge, Lina has her tech teams study over the volumes of what they have brought with them. Each machine, weapon, tank, transport, and aircraft is carefully checked. The guns are great and everything is in top condition. The tech priests want to continue studying their new developments, but Lina forbids the method. When they ask her why, she enlightens them of what is always a danger to them.
Lina says, "To study technology and understand knowledge is never a bad thing. It can lead you to doors of promise for the benefit of humanity. But, one must be careful for the dangers that are included with the wrong study. The ancient enemy we call Dark Mechanicus is one that kept studying technology only to fall and turn their back against all that is holy. Remember why I urge you all to not only to give yourself time for yourself than to your machine."
As the tech teams agree and honor her words, Lina lets them go forth and enjoy the day without using an machines to crowd their mind. Many find this experience worthless, but they try to learn what they can. Some want to still study the machines of their great achievements, but Lina reminds all will happen when the weapons and vehicles are used in battle. They all take in the morning sun coming over the horizon. Though it is hard to keep track of the right time for when the sun is at morning, noon, afternoon, evening and night, they continue to track the correct time for everything. As Lina uses her new system to be ready for field testing, she alerts Max as he makes his way to them.
Lina reports: "I hope you are on your way over. There is much for us to discuss. It would seem my new system is working too great, but we must look into a matter that you will recall."
Max replies, "I will be there soon. I hope Elara and Carl can keep the soldiers ready until we see what else the planet has to offer for us. I'll be there soon."
Within thirty minutes, Max arrives to the technology zone and is escorted to where Lina is at. He takes notice to the new feature of the skitarii. It is amazing to see them in bright colors other than the standard red. Many wear blue with yellow and others are covered in soldier green and black. There would be time to check the new features out later; Max arrives at the inner chambers of Lina's chamber. He enters and finds her looking over the new system for the entire planet. Max joins her and sees a tiny blip in front of them.
He says, "That same blip is still active out there? It hasn't stop yet?"
Lina replies, "It is still going on because it is not an ordinary device. I found out about it thanks to the unique code hidden within the blips. Let me show me what I have found."
With the fast movement of her hands, Lina pulls up the blip to reveal a small note being made. As the original sound is heard, a small note occurs after every two times the blip goes off.
Max scratches his head, "I don't understand. Why is this sound being added to the first sound already being made?"
Lina answers, "The noise we are hearing is an addition added with a small security code on it. It service not only as a signal but there is something else added to it. Only a tech priest can find this if they are truly good at hearing it. The noise we are hearing means come to the distress signal, but the additional noise means there is something else in it."
With the information known, Max wonders and leans on the edge, "So, someone is asking for help. The only problem we face is could this be a trap or an ambush. Do you believe we should investigate this blip?"
She sighs with fustration and expresses annoyance, "As much as I want us to go and find out about this, I am not willing to expose us to danger if this is a trap set by the Sons of Malice. I rather us ignore it since I know this kind of blip is from a tech expert. So, we are dealing with a second tech priest like myself. Or, we are facing a tech marine. I don't like this at all."
The two think about it only to receive a visit from a skitarii soldier.
She says, "Techno Woman and Noble One, you are needed for where the scout teams must go. Everyone is waiting and anxious to start; however, Commissar Elara forbids any journey until you arrive to give them the routes they are to take."
As Lina and Max both make their way to the front, he rolls over to see that he is running late. Carl looks at the time and sees that he has to be there before any meetings start without him. He hears soft moaning coming from behind his back. He looks over his shoulder to see a gray skin woman beside him. She opens her eyes and looks upon him with some satisfaction. Carl is at a lost for words and looks pass her to see the bottles. He is horrified by what he believes has happen. Suu sit up and rubs his face with a smile.
She says, "Good morning, I hope you enjoyed the night as much as I did."
Carl stutters, "Did...we...do...anything...last...night?"
Suu removes the sheets to show that he is missing a shirt, but everything else is covered and not missing. She smirks and shows that a section of her attire is missing. Carl looks at it and nearly jumps from the bed, but she assures him all is well.
Suu explains, "It is not what you think. Nothing happen, but I did manage to record all of it for your viewing pleasure. It started with you holding me up against the wall if you remember."
Before she can pull the video footage, Carl begs her to not show it to him until much later. He sees that time has gone by and he must hurry before anyone suspects him of being late. He rushes to the bathroom and turns on the hot water. As he inspects his clothing, Carl relaxes as he sighs a huge relief. He finds nothing torn below his waist and nothing else has gone on with him. As he showers up quickly and nearly burns his body, the thoughts pass through his mind about what he recalls from last night.
Carl thought, "By the grace of the golden throne, what did I do? I couldn't have done anything lewd with her. I pray that this is a joke."
With his mind scattering in every direction, Carl feels that a mistake has taken place and no one else needs to see it or hear of it.
Chapter 7: Section 7 - 2
The people are active and everything is going well. Max and Lina arrive to see Elara keeping the discipline high and the issues non-existence. She walks around the next squad and inspects the scouts to be ready for any signs of trouble. Elara checks the gear, weapons, supplies, and clothing. Not a single soldier dares to step out of line or show any fault. Max and Lina nearly want to step in, but they agree to let Commissar Elara keep to her rule and show the troops no fear.
She says, "This is how you all must be. I expect no shortage of any scouts to be found undeserving of the Emperor's blessing. Now that our Lord General is here, he will assign us all where you must go. Any that has a problem with it can expect my bolter to deliver the answer."
Elara steps away and gives the scouts to Max. Lina steps back and smiles for him to lead the troops.
Max says, "For the record, I will and always be Noble One Max Johnson. The title of Lord General Militant belongs to the late Lucas Turner. I shall only be referred to as Noble One. Only one who is truly bold and brave deserves the title. For now, our plan is simple. I want scouts and explorers to journey into the south, south-east, and south-west. Your mission is simple: Search, discover, report, and investigate. This planet has more things hidden on it and we will find it. If there is nothing else, dismiss."
As the captains and officers urge their troops on, a single soldier comes to Elara and whispers some words. The message is strange, but Elara passes it on to Max.
She says, "Something is going on with Carl. He requires you, Lina, and myself to show up at his cottage. It is important. He has the tau commander and others showing up."
Max, Lina, and Elara make their way to the home of Carl. After they arrive, they find Aun El Rai, Shas'O Kais, and Asuki standing outside the home. The situation is confusing for them too.
El Rai says, "This is an interesting situation going on here. Suu wants only me to step inside. So, I shall ask that you Max be the only one to step in with me. I shall send Asuki and Kais back to the tau fortress to continue with the tasks for us."
Max agrees, "You are right. I should send Lina and Elara back to their duties too. This is probably some minor mix up."
Shas'O Kais, Lina, Asuki, and Elara leave with only one guardsmen and fire warrior standing by. The duo steps inside and see two people looking as though they dropped something sacred. Suu and Carl stand away from each other. Max notices her missing some of her cloth; El Rai sees Carl nerves with anger. Instead of standing there in silence, they break.
Carl says, "I called you here to clear up something, but I didn't expect her to invite her leader."
Suu coldly snaps, "Well, I didn't trust your leader to be as relax as mine is. So, here we are."
Max and El Rai look to each other and beg to see this problem solved. Suu steps forward and uses her display recorder to show what happen. The four look on to see footage of what happen last night. It shows Carl pressing Suu against the wall of his home. Before anything happens, he takes the wine next to the counter and swallows as much as he can. Suu tries to take it from him only to see her clothes rip at the side just below her hips.
Carl says, "I...I don't...know..."
Suu tries to help him, "You had too much blood taken and wine put into your body. I urge you to rest and sleep."
The more she tries to help, the more Carl resist. Instead of being calm, Carl strips before her with only he shirt missing. He spins and dances in a silly manner before Suu only for her to chuckle. They see Carl try to rush at Suu again only to smack his head against the wall and fall over. Suu sighs and helps him up from the floor. The good news was there is no mark nor blood dripping from him. Suu lays him down and the camera goes silent. With El Rai and Max both baffled, they look to them and only want to smile at how things went.
Max chuckles, "Never are you to drink any more wine if you are low on blood. I don't need to see you strip before the entire company on any of your wild nights."
El Rai adds, "Next time, do not alert me of your dealings with him unless it is an important issue. I will see you back at the fortress to continue our work."
After they leave, Suu looks at Carl with such disappointed. Carl feels foolish and continues to get dress.
He says, "Sorry about that, but I just had to make sure I didn't do anything or that you caused anything."
Suu sighs, "If it is anything for you, I will let you know this. After you completely feel asleep, I made sure no one disturbs us by hacking the door. Not even the tau was alerted to me unless I turned on my transmitter. I would have stayed on your couch but you woke up. You kept on asking me to join you in your bed. I did so to make sure you didn't do anything else. Now, if all else is done. I'll be leaving you here to gather with your own. I have been here long enough. And no, I won't let them know about the blood I have taken from you."
As she tries to leave, Carl grabs her wrist. Suu turns to see him focused.
Carl says, "I am sorry I thought you did anything. I just can't..."
She cuts him off and leaves out from his home. With his worry put behind him, Carl continues to get ready to join the others. After an hour goes by, Carl finds himself in the center of attention at the forward command center. At the computer and monitoring, Lina scans for more ways to expand the fortress and the imperium on Xoen. By the relay and com system, Elara keeps track of what reports are dire to the mission and updates the soldiers on what must be done. Lastly, Max stands in front of the holographic globe of Xoen and looks for more ways of how future plans will change them. Carl clears his throat with Max looking at him with a smile. Lina and Elara compare notes.
He says, "So, what shall I do to contribute to this grand imperium for the emperor?"
Max smiles and walks to him, "You and Elara will stay here and keep things in order until further notice. Lina and I will be taking five squads and several scouts out to the south-west territory. An area out there requires her sight and touch. I hope this won't take too long, so Elara will make sure you stay away from the wine."
Elara chuckles and laughs as Lina and Max leave out. She says, "Max told me of your wine consuming act, but he failed to mention how or why you did more than you can handle. Care to enlighten me on what happen?"
Carl scoffs and answers, "There is no need for you to know about that. I just made a fool of myself and that is it."
The pair keeps their minds busy with work and goes over the details of everything they are handed. The scouts push deeper into the wild encountering new creatures similar to some animals back at home. So far, nothing is beyond their reach as they urge the troops to maintain a visual of everything. Max and Lina head to the south-west area of the fortress; many tech teams and soldiers beg to join them on any project or plan that requires them to leave the area. Max assembles the teams of five.
He says, "We have recent intel on a signal out in the wild in the south-west region. Lina and I will be going out there to see what we can find. Those of you that travel with us are to be mindful of your surroundings and keep a weary eye out for danger. Who is ready to fulfill their duty?"
The soldiers cry, "Long live the Imperium of Man! Long live the Immortal Emperor!"
They load up six transport vehicles and roll out into the south-west. The troops and tech teams feel proud to know that Max is leading them despite what is out there. They will do more than honor the legacy of the late Lord General Militant. This is the time for them to make him proud of the regiment. As things look promising for the imperium, the tau send out as many probes as they can to find any planet within the Primarex system. Though Xoen is a perfect home for everyone and large enough for both species, the tau would honor their words and find a home for them. They let out the Vespid warriors a section at a time. As they adjust to the new climate, they find themselves at peace here and quick to make a hive where they could. At the tower, Commander Shas'O Kais and Aun El Rai continue to hear the words of others. Many argue over staying on Xoen but out of reach of the humans; the other party sees that this is a waste of time to continue being on a planet with unbelievers.
A peace talker says, "This planet is large enough for us to continue with our way of living and we can expand on the other side of the world without any more imperial influence. We have no need to search for other planets to expand until we make them see reason to why our plans out shines their own. I beg you, Aun El Rai. Please continue to keep the peace and convince the imperial leaders that this place is a world worthy of both our empires. We have enough trouble as it is with the orks and Sons of Malice. Why should we invite more danger to ourselves when the enemy is out there?"
A war supporter replies, "It is that thinking that has gotten us here. We agreed to leave only when we found a new world to settle on. That agreement was with the Lord General Militant Lucas Turner. He is now gone from this life; the new leader may not be as honest as the last one was. I propose that we use this time to repel the imperium from this world and claim it for the tau expansion. This is our time to make sure we are properly secure than rely on old methods with the foolish humans. The old ways are only keeping us from helping them truly see what there is to have under tau leadership."
Aun El Rai raises his hand and halts the chatter. Shas'O Kais answers, "The debate on the imperium laying claim to this world is no longer our choice. If we want the future for our people to be safe, we must honor our word. We stay until we find a lush world for us to have. If there is nothing else, the Great Spear will be using deep scans from our probes to find anything for us. This meeting is over for now."
After everyone leaves, El Rai says, "You still believe that the humans will join our empire and help it expand more than it can be. Why is it that you still believe they will accept our truth?"
Kais sadly replies, "Ever since the lost of Aun El Shi'Ores, things have been more challenging for the tau. We continue to expand out into the galaxy only to still be faced with the savage, mad, damned, and soulless. I take heart to what Shi'Ores told me once before he died."
El Rai adds, "I remember too. His words were 'Even in the face of evil, the Greater Good must prevail' at the time we need it most. I understand how painful it was to see him die and know that there was no way to save him. But, do not let it make you lose hope. There is always a way."
Shas'O Kais takes his leave, and replies, "If all else fails, I will do what I can to ensure our survival no matter what."
The tau citizens enjoy the day and learn what they can. Many new humans are glad to be able to enjoy a few days of happiness. Asuki keeps the troops good on morale with her daily speeches of seeing the empire grow into something more.
Asuki proclaims, "The tau empire has crossed the dark void of space. It has endured in the Milky Way; it will survive and thrive in this new galaxy against any form of evil. We are the best and greatest that represents the new tau. The Greater Good will flourish here and all will remember that we won't quit."
As the day goes on, Suu finds herself ready to head out. The only issue is the events that have occurred. From the moment of being locked up against the wall by Carl in his own place to him falsely accusing her of an atrocity.
She thought, "Did he really think I would sink to his level of enjoyment, or did he want to really try something with me?"
Chapter 7: Section 7 - 3
The first thought is touch. It feels so smooth; the second is how rough the skin is. The promise of a sensation like no other passes through the mind. The nerves feel excited yet unsure as to how this will be. Before anything can continue, the mood changes to humor. As Suu tries her best to ignore what happen, she finds herself now slightly annoyed by how Carl kept thinking something worse happen. The question still comes to mind about what was he thinking. After Suu gears up, she reports to Shas'O Kais. Asuki is beside him ready to receive the next assignment.
Shas'O Kais says, "You have your orders. Be sure that it is done."
Asuki acknowledges his command and heads off. Suu reports to him and receives her task; it is not as pleasing as it looks.
She says, "Sir, you are sending me on a tasks that is pointless. I should be heading to explore the planet we are on and searching the void of space for new worlds. This assignment is better for a low ranking officer to handle than me."
Kais replies, "This task may not be to your liking, but we need more ways for the humans to accept our concept. You and Carl are best suited for keeping the alliance secure should any begin to doubt it. Are you saying that a visit to the imperial fortress is not worth it?"
Suu answers, "I will always do for the tau empire, but this matter is best suited for a diplomat than me. Carl will not be wanting to see me due to an unpleasant moment from last night. I am sure our leader has told you of the events?"
To her surprise, Shas'O Kais didn't know nor did he desire to know. Her mission still stands as it is. She didn't want to see Carl, but the mission must take place over any minor details. With a deep sigh, Suu gathers her thoughts. She didn't want to see Carl after what he thought, but this mission is important. She recalls the words that Shas'O Kais told her; however, seeing Carl may change all of that. After enough time goes on, she finds herself in front of imperial soldiers and asks them for an escort.
Suu says, "I am to meet with Carl of the Imperial Guardians. He and I have things to discuss for the improving relationship our empires have. I won't take too much of his time. Let him bring anyone else to our gathering."
The escort takes her through the fortress and to the forward command base. She overhears the annoyance from some of the imperial soldiers nearby.
One soldier says, "Why is that gray skin tau woman here to do now? We have our own empire to forge. She needs to stay within her own place."
A guardian replies, "This female xeno is wasting her time. Carl will either decide to put a bullet through her head or her leg, if she is lucky."
As she walks by a group of soldiers, a single guardsman bumps into her and knocks her down into the mud. The group laughs at her only for the nightmares to come back. She recalls being shoved down to the ground with hardly any gear or clothes on. She looks up to see a man over her. The sweat drips from him as he rubs his face clear of it. He told her: "You better not disappoint me." Before Suu can react to them, a voice of authority comes to them.
She says, "I will not have our guest treated in such a manner so long as they are our allies. Return to your post and do not let me see this again."
The soldiers quickly march off before Elara pulls her bolter out on them. Suu looks up to see a hand help her up only to remember the sweet words "Come on, you are not done yet." Elara pulls her up to see the mud cover her like war paint.
Elara apologies for the soldiers, "I wish most of the new faces like myself would understand the word alliance. I hope this doesn't damage our relationship. Max did keep to the promise to let you all stay."
Suu says, "It is alright. The mud can be washed off once you allow me to use one of your facilities. Just point me in the direction of Carl."
They come to the doors of the command center and step inside. Upon seeing her, Carl is annoyed by how the soldiers treated her. Elara promises him that this will not happen any more and goes to fix the mistrust issue. Carl offers Suu to wash up. She declines the offer until the business at hand is over.
She says, "My leader and commander still hope that we find better ways to keep our alliance going. We are willing to share any technology with you to further enhance your weapons or give your transportation any upgrade. What are your terms?"
Carl stops looking at the holographic world and turns to her, "The firepower of the imperial army is already strong. We need no further upgrades. As for the technology, it has to be spoken with our Blessed Techno Woman to see if she will allow us to apply it to what we know. Lina and Max are currently not present for the discussion. You will have to wait until they return. If that is all, you can use our facility to wash off the mud or return back to your fortress unharmed. I shall escort you."
Suu looks into his eyes with some irritation. She asks, "Do you really believe you did something with me last night?"
Carl sighs, "I was only bothered by the idea that you not only accepted what happen, but you enjoyed it. I am a..."
She interrupts, "You are a soldier of the imperial guard. Yes, I get it. Your belief won't allow you to mix or interbreed with a xeno that can produce something worse. You have my promise that I was only happy that to spend the night with you and enjoy how foolish you were. And as for your blood contribution, it will be studied and closely looked into for our future gue'vesa to make sure they can use some of our own. But, I do have questions for you that are not related to our empire."
He leans against the wall and asks, "Oh really? What kind of questions do you wish to ask me? How are they not related to our empire?"
Suu replies, "Did you really want to be connected with me, or did you desire me out of curiosity?"
Before he can answer, Elara comes back into the room. Her sudden surprise catches them both off guard.
Elara says, "We are receiving some news from Max and Lina. I will take the information while you take her back to her fortress."
Carl agrees to do so. The pair leave as Elara alerts the troops to be ready to move out if needed. Suu and Carl walk back together and neither says a word. The questions stir in his mind and answers linger on. It didn't take long before Carl is stopped by a group of soldiers. They step to him and stop Suu from walking away.
A soldier says, "Sir, why do you escort this gray skin dog? She can pass through this land without any trouble from any of us."
Carl replies, "I expect you all are behaving and not looking for ways to fail the charges given to you?"
A second soldier adds, "Well, he does have a point sir. She can walk just fine. She is leaving the same way she arrived. She is a muddy excuse for a xeno female."
The words twist in her mind as Suu says, "I am a proud woman of the tau empire. We are only here to spread words..."
A third guardsmen shoves her back, "Don't try to pretend you are here on any holy mission. The imperium will wipe all of you out just as soon as we secure our lands from your kind."
Suu looks around to see the soldiers are close to them, but Carl stops the madness.
He roars, "All of you return to your posts at once! That is an order!"
A fourth soldier shoves Suu down, "And what are you going to do if we don't?!"
She looks at the ground to see the blood on her hands. Her mind becomes weak and fragile at the sight of what she endured. The voices around her give her no time focus. She reaches for the knife only to hear a powerful set of words.
Carl shouts, "To any nearby imperial guardians, rally at these coordinates!"
Suu looks around to see imperial guardians come from around the area and land in front of Carl. The guardsmen are nervous and back up. Every guardians offers them the same result if they didn't back up.
Carl adds, "By order of the late Lord General Militant Turner and active leader Noble One Max, you are to cease this behavior at once. Any more of this and I promise you will be on the front line for a public execution. There shall be no more talk of war with the tau, no harassment of the tau, and no threats to the tau. Now, report to your post and be ready to move out."
The guardsmen back up quickly as warning shots are fired at their feet. Carl looks back to see Suu frozen in place. He takes her hand and pulls her up. She escorts her to his place to wash up and return back to the tau unspoiled. They arrive and hear Elara's voice through the com channel. Suu tries to speak, but Carl allows her to stay at his place until he returns to escort her back. He urges her inside and informs her to only open the door when he returns. She steps inside and breathes easy. Her emotions are now at peace as she takes a moment to breathe.
Suu thought, "Despite his foolishness, he protected me as though I am one of his own. I hope he accepts the news when it is time to tell him."
In the south-west lands far from the base, they search for the what is calling them out there. Max looks in the pools of water with tree vines sticking in them. Lina scans the tall landscape above her head to see what she can find. The journey is long and tiresome for them and the teams. They find a decent area to set up a base; Max orders them to get started and make sure nothing is left to chance. Lina finds a rock to sit on and takes in the air around her. The trees are beautiful and tall. All she can remember is how nice Lucas was to her despite how her looks were. She remembers his love being strong and great as well as his duty to the emperor.
Lina thought, "Oh great Omnissiah and immortal Emperor, why did he have to be taken from me when I need him the most? Please, let me no longer feel this pain any more."
Max joins her, "You still miss him do you?"
She answers softly, "Yes, I do. Lucas was everything to me and now I will never see him again. I just wish he didn't leave me to go fight for the future of humanity."
He adds, "You know Lucas would not want to be found unwanting in the eyes of the emperor. He would still want us to go on. Besides, he left behind a great wonder."
Lina turns to Max with a smile, but they regain their focus back on the device that is calling them. Upon activating her own tracker, the device is closer than ever. Max orders his troops to stay alert and keep the base secure. The pair go ahead of them and search the area. The tracker is picking up something close to the area. They move further away from the base until they are fifty yards away. Lina looks at the tracking device on her wrist. It shows they are close. Max taps her arm and brings her focus to a small cave in front of them. The tracker blinks faster and there is more to see. They look at the ground to find blood. It is red, but there is a black substance with it. They both take a knee and look at it closely. It is oil.
Lina says, "I hope the orks didn't come way out here for us to be ambushed."
Max looks around, "There is no roaring and this isn't from them. We made sure no orks are left on Xoen. Every ork body was set on fire and burned."
The cave in front of them wasn't too deep, but they stand ready. Max pulls out his bolter and Lina activates her suit. They advance slowly and find a surprise inside that they didn't expect. There is more blood ahead of them and oil spills around the area. They enter the cave and find him inside of it. They can't believe their own eyes, but there he is. He lays on his back with wounds on his body. A few oil spots are against the wall. The noise of electricity is heard. He looks to them with sad eyes and regret. Lina grinds her teeth as he prepares to fire her weapon at him. Max stops her only to hear the words of the tech marine.
He says, "I've made a mistake. I should've never joined the Sons of Malice. They are a twisted chapter of the Chaos Deity Malice. They showed me how his plan will be when he faces his brothers. I have fallen from the grace of the emperor and omnissiah. I do not deserve to live to see how this will end. I ask that you cease my life functions and take my tome of the tech marine. I have it set to where only another tech expert can open it with a finger verification. Once the book verifies the user, it will only open to that person. I beg you both. Please, end my pain and burn my body. Take my book and give it to your regiment. May you find a new salvation inside for the imperium."
The tech marine slips into a coma. Lina and Max look to see the tome in front of him. It is heavy and contains any knowledge left behind for access. They stand together unsure of what to do next.
Chapter 7: Section 7 - 4
The silence is broken by the thoughts of logical, reason, madness, and disagreement. One person agrees with the advantage this tome will give the guardsmen and guardians; in fact, the pages of any tech marine will allow them to even rival the tau for technology. The other disagrees with how the tech marine is offering them a tainted tome that can easily corrupt the tech experts. It is a battle of words, understanding, pride and choice.
Max says, "We should take it. Let's honor his request and take the tome with us back to the imperial fortress to use. We need every advantage that we can get out here. This will be our chance to truly prevail over the Sons of Malice."
Lina looks to Max with rage in her eyes, "Are you lost in the head? This tome is tainted by the hands of a fallen space marine. He truly believed that Malice would change the fate of the galaxy; now he regrets his choices and wishes to die. The emperor will not take him at his side and the omnissiah will delete him from any data banks."
Max replies, "Look, this tech marine realized his mistakes and seeks to atone for them by any means. He is dead to us right now and left behind his own sacred tome for any tech expert to have. With this tome, we can achieve a huge advantage over the enemy and have fire power like any space marine chapter. This is our key to making sure this galaxy will never fall to the enemy. Why should we deny ourselves this opportunity?"
Lina snaps back, "This book was holy and pure for any tech marine when it was made by the hands of a pure warrior for the emperor. Now, it is nothing but a book of tainted evil that will curse any who look upon it. I can not allow such an evil to remain with us, Max. This is not our way and we are not about to fall from the emperor's light because of an advantage you want. If Lucas was here..."
He roars, "Lucas is dead! I'm sorry, but my brother is dead! This isn't his choice. We must do this to honor him."
She slaps his face and gives him a scar, "Don't you dare call him your brother. He would do what is right than look for any advantage if it means slipping into the hands of chaos."
Max recovers from the slap and looks at Lina. He holds back his blank powers and rage. Instead of looking at her, he looks at the marine and back at her.
"Do what you want, but I know Lucas would agree with both of us. Don't make us regret this Lina," said Max.
He takes his leave of her and goes outside. She looks at the marine and remember his words. Lina finds herself stuck between a data system and hard place. She didn't know if this is the right thing or the wrong thing. He struggles with her logic and emotions.
Lina thought, "This tome would give us an advantage over the enemy if I can understand the writing. The only problem is how much the tome has been tainted in the hands of a traitor. It can make us all fall to chaos."
She looks once more at the tome, then the tech marine, and finally the gun in her hand. It is a simple solution and many possible chances will be open to them. Max sits outside and takes a drink of his water. He hears the fire of a bolter from inside the cave; Max looks back to see Lina come out with the tome attached and hanging from her hip. Before he can speak, Lina interrupts him.
She says, "I do this out of care for the imperium. I know Lucas would say take the tome and learn what I can. But, if I find any signs of chaos in this book, I'll shoot you for each and every taint regardless of how small it is. Pray that this is going to help us in the end."
Max agrees and they head back to the base. Lina pulls a device from her pocket and presses the button. The roar of an explosion goes off and brings down the cave where the tech marine lays at. With the investigation over, they are welcome back by the soldiers and tech teams. Max orders them to make ready for the return back. He also apologies to Lina for bringing up his name. She responds in kind, but prays that this tome will help them. At the imperial fortress, Commissar Elara listens to the broadcast from Lina.
She reports: "Noble One and I will be back before it is noon. Give us some time and continue to maintain the order and discipline of the army. From there, we will be taking on new challenges."
Elara replies, "Yes, ma'am. I will have the soldiers ready to act upon your arrival."
As Carl finishes up the rounds and continues to make sure every soldier is not found lacking for focus, he ensures all soldiers that Max will return to lead them to new tasks. The soldiers from early are currently being handled by imperial guardians for their uncalled for methods. Though they plead for their acts to be overlooked, Carl didn't let up on giving them a reminder.
He says to them, "I hope the xeno alliance will remind you all that this is no time to be looking for any signs of war. We still have orks and chaos marines to deal with. Before you have the honor of giving them the emperor's justice, be sure that the mud on your gear serves as a lesson of what you will be covered in."
He takes his leave of them despite the few protests. An imperial guardian uses his back end of the rifle to keep them in line with others willing to shoot them. Carl wants to stop giving them reminders, but he needs to have them more ready than undisciplined. He makes his way back to his home to check on Suu.
Carl calls to Elara by radio, "Commissar Elara, I will be back at the command center once I have seen to our guest. She had to wash off the mud at my cottage before she could return back. Expect my arrival with an hour or two."
After a short journey, Carl arrives at his home and steps inside. He hears the water running and goes to check her gear. To his surprise, it is clean as though it is new. He looks over his reports and signs off on a few orders before checking on Suu.
He thought, "Ugh, looks like we have more soldiers from the hive city unwilling to accept the emperor's light as a blessing. We may have to execute them for lack of zeal. I hope it won't come to that. And what is this? Here is another request for additional training to be issued for the soldiers. I see Elara is making sure no one falls behind on their focus."
After signing off and reading the reports, Carl finishes up and goes to find Suu. He steps to his door and finds it slightly open. He peaks inside only to see her fully uncovered. Her skin is smooth and everything from her back side is bright. She sighs heavily and rubs her scars and old wounds with care. Carl listens to her speak softly.
She says, "Never again. Never again. It is over."
Carl pulls back and taps the door to announce his arrival. She lets him know that she will be done in a moment. He agrees to wait for her in the living room. After a few minutes go by, Suu appears before Carl only wearing one of his undershirts. He looks at her with some interest and asks.
Suu smiles and says, "I always wanted to know how it feels on me. I rather like it and hope you let me keep it since you and Elara helped me against your soldiers."
He agrees to do so and reminds her to return back to the tau fortress. She gets herself dress and they back out into the open. They make it back to the escort teams and she bids him farewell until they meet again. He nearly lets his thoughts slip and thinks of how lovely she is; however, Carl keeps his mind on the mission. He returns to the forward command center to speak with Elara. After time goes on, Lina and Max return with news for everyone. She gathers her tech teams, skitarii fighters, and tech priest together. They all move to the technology and knowledge zone. Max accompanies them with Carl and Elara still keeping the soldiers alert. Within the main hall of the meeting, Lina lets her voice be heard among the people.
She holds up the tome from the tech marine, "This is a tome. It is a sacred book from a tech marine. For those of you who know, the last of the false space marines has been dealt with. There are only the Sons of Malice left with any space marines. Now, we hold secrets from a tech marine that has given us the honor to learn and study its secrets. I have brought this book here from the wilds of Xoen. This is our chance to give us an chance to do more than thrive here. Our enemies will fall before our might, but we will not give into power. I will study what I can about this tome and pass on the knowledge to others. But, if this is full of tainted pages, I shall burn it and any notes. This is will be a gift from the emperor and omnissiah, or it will be a cursed relic of chaos."
They all cry, "Praise the Omnissiah! Long live the Immortal Emperor!"
As they return to their duties, Max assures Lina that this will be a benefit to their cause.
Lina adds, "For the record, I do not like this at all. I will do as you command, but you have to be here for every step of the way."
Upon agreement, they enter her private sanctum. The heavy object is placed on her podium. Lina breathes heavy and hard. To see and hold a tome from a tech marine is a dream itself. Max stands beside her.
He says, "It is alright. I am here with you every step of the way. You can do this."
She gives him a smile and starts the process. She presses her thumb on the mechanism and lets the verifying start. Lina feels a warm sensation on her thumb and retrieves her hand. The latches on the book unlock. She cautiously opens the book to the first page. It reads:
"The tome of the machine spirit. Praise be to the Great Omnissiah."
She turns the page and finds a surprise. Max looks at it with her only to see a design for something. He tries to study it, but Lina is shocked to learn that what is in front of them is nothing more than a blue print for making regular armor into space marine gear. She turns the page and discovers more of half finished designs that incorporate making men into better soldiers. The more she turns the pages, the more Lina is surprised by how incomplete it is.
Max asks, "You seem to be lost for words. Is this how things should be?"
Lina answers, "Max, this tome is not even complete. It has the basic design in here for making a set of marine armor, but it leaves out more than a few bits of information. It doesn't show me how to make a space marine nor does it include any injections, add-ons, attachments, nor anything that can enhance the body or mind. I would go further into the details, but this book is still fresh like a new born baby if you will. The only thing I can pull from here is the armor. After that, it goes into how the process is done with only synthetic materials that can be fixed or improved on. The book isn't tainted at all."
Lina steps back with determination in her eyes. Max smiles and forces her to turn to him.
He says, "This is your time and here is your gift. Now, you can use this tome to leave behind more than just your mark. In the name of all that is holy, this is your gift to the imperium out here we are building. Is it going to be correct, no. Will this help us, probably. The point I am saying to you is this."
Max continues and points at the book, "This tome is your chance to give our people a better future. The words and notes you place in here will be for future generations to remember. That is why the tech marine wanted you to have it. He didn't let anything about it become tainted. He made sure it remain pure. I beg you, Lina. In the name of the Omnissiah and Immortal Emperor, use this tome to leave behind any legacy for the next generation out here. If not for me and the people, then do it for him...do it for one who knows you are as pure as the..."
She begs him to stop with her hand and sighs once more, "I will study what is in here and use it to help us. I just want to know that I am doing what is right for us. Great Omnissiah, please guide me to a discovery."
Max smiles and leaves her to her work. She thanks him before he goes and gladly promises to learn the secrets of the tome. With her hands full and thoughts occupied, Lina takes to her new task and studies what is in the tome. Max leave out from the building only to discover a problem is waiting for him. He sighs and growls to see her standing before him with caution in her eyes.
He says, "Out of all the people I have to deal with, you show up now. What is it that you want now, Kayleth? And do remember, your kind is not welcone here or did you fail to pass that on?"
Kayleth begs Max to follow him away from the others, but he refuses to do so and wants to know what is it that she must tell him.
She says, "I have news from our farseer and she demands that you show yourself to her at once."
Max shows his rage is not so easy to hide and now he is seeing a new problem before his eyes.
Chapter 7: Section 7 - 5
The time between them is measured not by just the years nor the battles. It has been tested due to the constant times they had to be around each other. If destiny could ever be changed, it would have been done by now. Max stands before her annoyed and wondering; Kayleth lets him know that Xiwe needs to see him for an important matter. The rage is slowly swelling.
Max says, "So, now you have chosen to show up when you and your kind need something from me. In this case, you don't need me. Xiwe, your new farseer, needs to see me about an issue because of something that she saw in the warp thanks to the future. Why don't you just tell me why and what it is? Because right now, we are busy with our own tasks and missions. I can't be there to help you out."
Kayleth locks her rage down and replies, "I am less than happy about this as well. I do not wish to see you any more than you wish to see me. I am only here to make sure you hear the message. Xiwe needs to speak with you and you must come along."
He pauses for a moment and laughs at her words.
He turns away from her, "I'm not going anywhere with you and I am not speaking to your farseer. I do recall that humans need not to be apart of your issues. Or, did you forget that your farseer is not wanting to speak to the 'Mon-keigh' since we are such a lowly species?"
Before he can get far, she grabs his arm and stops him from leaving. Kayleth tries to speak only to be pushed against the wall. She bites down on her tongue and and locks her rage down more.
Max grinds his teeth, "You better mind where your hands go. I am not here to answer your call when your farseer has something to tell me. Since you are the messenger, you can happily tell your farseer that the imperial commander Noble One Max Johnson is not taking any coms or demands from here. Now, I am letting you go."
Kayleth watches him turn away again. She quickly adds, "She sees you as a threat. I am trying to help you."
Having just finished the words, a set of warp rings appear around Max and lock onto his arms and legs. Warp spiders uncloak around him and she stands before them. Max looks to Kayleth with surprise and annoyance. Xiwe sighs with disappointment.
Xiwe walks over to him, "I should have known you would not listen to reason. Now, I will seal your fate and prevent your intrusion on us."
Max laughs and easily moves through the warp rings. The sudden moment with ease puts Xiwe on the defensive. Instead of coming to her, he turns to Kayleth.
He says, "Now you are trying to kill me with the help of your farseer. All of this was just to set me up again."
Before the eldar can act, Max allows his unnatural abilities stretch out. The eldar leap away with Kayleth only stay behind. It didn't take long for the soldiers to pass by Max and Kayleth only to feel the blank powers stretch out. The more he is upset, the stronger his power extends. Kayleth moves back.
Max breathes calmly and lets her know, "As of right now, I don't want to see you, your kind, Xiwe, or any other eldar within this fortress. Any more surprise visits from you, Veldoran, Shelia, Xiwe, or any eldar from the craft world will result in hostility. Now, this is your last warning. Get away from here and do not come back."
Kayleth leaps through a warp portal and retreats from the area. Max is upset and calls an emergency meeting asap. Once the eldar are away from the imperial fortress, Kayleth expresses her displeasure about trying a simple assassination on Max.
She speaks to Xiwe, "That was a fool's errand. Max is a blank and his powers have changed. You may not be able to see what he does, but I assure you that this only has given him more reason to possibly use the tau against us."
Xiwe replies, "The fact that he lives shows me how far you will continue to fail us. You had a moment to easily assassinate him and didn't take it. It is a good thing I did show up, but now we must prepare for war. I trust that your kin will be ready to do what they must."
Shelia and Veldoran appear next to them. The issue about Max is becoming more and more of a problem.
Veldoran asks, "I take it your meeting with Max didn't go as you would hope?"
Kayleth tries to answer only for Xiwe to reply, "He is a threat that must be dealt with before he obtains any more power. I am gathering what we have to go back to the imperial base and eliminate him. Any other humans that get in the way will suffer the same fate as him."
Shelia spins and twists before Xiwe and says, "I do not believe that is a path to follow for us. The humans have grown become quite relaxed with us. If we attack them now, this will be seen as more than a betrayal."
Xiwe turns to them, "The humans will be offered one chance to leave. If they refuse, none shall live to see another moon or star. We must eliminate Max and make sure he won't be the death of us all. I'll see you back at the eldar ship."
After she leaves, Kayleth finds herself lost for words on what they can do to avert the coming battle.
Shelia suggests, "If you desire to not go to war with the humans, I may be able to use my tongue to convince them of the coming problem. Xiwe is set on killing Max. If I can, I'll convince Max to leave his people to save them from us."
Kayleth agrees to the method, but she inform Veldoran of a new plan in case it fails.
She says, "I need you to go to the tau fortress and speak with their commander and leader. Convince them of the coming war and make sure they go to the imperial base. We must do all that we can to stop this. I rather the eldar not lose any more to a pointless battle."
Veldoran asks, "Are you doing this to save the eldar and avoid war, or are you trying to keep him alive?"
Kayleth pauses in her thoughts, but she answers, "The imperial guard and Max are not the threat. We still have orks and the Sons of Malice to deal with. Only after they are dealt with can we decide to eliminate Max or not. I rather we stay on course and keep the humans as our allies than waste time trying to destroy them."
With her secret plans in motion, she finds her mind conflicted with problems. Max refuses to accept her words or time. She didn't believe Max would cut off all communications from the eldar; however, Xiwe did try to have him killed. She didn't waste any more time thinking of what can be. The only course left is to stop the humans and eldar from fighting. At the tau fortress, Veldoran appears in the center of the base. His sudden surprise alerts the tau and causes them to respond with weapons drawn. He quickly asks that the leader shows up and speaks with him. Shas'O Kais and Aun El Rai make their way to the center of the base. The words of mistrust swirl in their mind, knowing that the eldar has been so isolated from everyone. Upon arrival, Veldoran bows to them.
Shas'O Kais says, "You dare show up here to speak with us? What has brought you here? We are not interested in your activities."
Veldoran says, "I am here to inform you that the imperial base will be under attack by the eldar of Ctho. You would do well to go and help them mount a defense against Xiwe."
Aun El Rai steps to him, "What sort of eldar trick is this? Why are the eldar trying to attack the imperial army? Are you not friends with them and have an alliance?"
He answers, "The eldar of craft world Alaitoc are no enemy to the imperium of man. It is our farseer. She seeks to eliminate Max due to his unnatural abilities. My autarch seeks to stop them from completing this objective. I am hear to only warn you that the humans will need help. My craft world won't attack, but the eldar of Ctho will be willing to kill any who stop them from killing Max."
With the words singing true, Shas'O Kais and El Rai consider the threat to be real. They both agree to send word to the leaders just in case this is not some foolish plan. Kais contacts Asuki and Suu to send a small force to the imperial fortress. Aun El Rai contacts Max and Elara by broadcast to alert them. At the imperial fortress, Carl stands face to face with Shelia and wonders if she is either lying or making.
He asks, "Why are the eldar of Ctho trying to kill Max? What is going on?"
Shelia replies, "Our farseer is blind and can't see beyond what is needed for us to survive. She only sees the enemies of Max, orks, and the Sons of Malice. Nothing else matters and everything is secondary. I am here on the orders of Kayleth to make sure you do not fail. Please, consider my words carefully."
Elara arrives and sees the two speaking with several imperial guardians standing by.
She says, "I thought Max made it clear to you that the eldar are not allowed to be here."
Carl turns to her, "The eldar of Alaitoc are not my enemy. It is the eldar of Ctho that refuse to see reason. We must be ready in case this is not a lie."
Before they can continue, Max calls to them by radio.
He reports: "I've just heard from the tau leader that the eldar are going to attack us and try to eliminate me. They are sending a small group of fire warriors over under Suu's command. I need you both to set up defense and have the soldiers ready. Lina and I will coordinate from the tower, but I will be out there to help this conflict end."
With his orders given, Commissar Elara leaves to prepare the soldiers. Carl looks at Shelia with eyes of worry.
He says, "Are you sure you can prevent your farseer from making this into a problem? I don't want us to be enemies, Shelia."
She smirks at him and spins before his eyes, "You and I have been through too much to be enemies. I won't ever raise my weapons to you at all. Your leader may not see it that way, but I assure you the eldar of Alaitoc won't strike at you nor your allies. We see what is coming."
Shelia offers her hand to shake. Carl responds in kind and they both depart from each other. At the Faded Light ship, Kayleth discovers that the eldar of Ctho are gone and didn't stay long. The problem is becoming more dangerous to stop. With her kin standing by and wondering, Kayleth addresses them on the matter at hand.
Kayleth calls to her kin, "The eldar of Ctho are under the words of farseer Xiwe. She seeks the death of Max and will not stop until he is dead. I will go alone and try to prevent this disaster. We still have orks and chaos to fight. Now is not our time to make more enemies. I forbid any eldar showing up at the imperial base. Once Veldoran returns, follow his words and stay hidden aboard the ship. This is a problem for me to stop."
At the imperial base, the tau warriors arrive with Suu meeting with Carl. Before they have time to get ready, the sensors around the base pick up movement. Carl and Suu look ahead of everyone to hear an unusual noise. Xiwe appears just outside the kill zone of the imperial base. She stands still and looks on at the base of fools.
She thought, "This man must die. If he is left alive, the craft worlds here will die from his power. I won't fail where Kayleth has given up at. The time is now and I won't fail."
With a wave of her hand, Xiwe gives the order as the eldar of Ctho appear from behind her and around the area. No one knows what is going on, but the true test of friendship will be on the line between eldar and humans. The last message Lina is able to send to everyone is loud and clear.
She boardcast, "We have multiple breaches around the base! I repeat, multiple breaches are around the base!"
