Dawn of War: Where They Belong
Anger can easily blind you to what is in front of you, but it can be controlled. It can be useful and it does show you the truth in one's actions. There is only one cure for anger and rage; many of us find it once we know when it is gone.
Chapter 9: Section 9 - 1
The air is not so hot; they stand by away from the center and look on. He made it clear for them to leave and never come back. They were suppose to stay off Xoen and out of the Primarex system. Now, here one of them stands before him ready to challenge him. She wishes to test his new found strength, endurance, and agility. The voices around them call out for her death. Many others call for her to flee in fear and some don't understand why a single eldar would stand before the might of the imperial guard leader. Within the crowd, she looks on with her face hidden behind her cloak. She can feel his unholy and unnatural power ready to spill out. High above everyone, a second eldar looks on to see if the farseer will be as foolish as she once was. As he grips his war hammer, it pulses with energy.
Max says, "You dare step back on Xoen? I do recall telling your autarch that all eldar are excommincatus from imperial forces. Did she not tell you to stay away, or is this of your own doing?"
Xiwe steps gracefully around the area, "I do this to save my craft world from a threat such as you. You are unholy and not natural. You must die before any can use your power to their advantage. Kayleth failed to stop you, but I will no longer underestimate you. This is the last time you breathe."
With quick hands, Xiwe throws her lance at Max. He leans to the side and catches it mid-air. Xiwe smiles and sends warp eletricity through it. The blast forces everyone back; however, Max stands perfectly calm and holds her weapon with ease. She tries to retrieve it and sees that it won't return. Max drops the weapon and grips his war hammer with both hands. The pure power from it sparks greatly. Xiwe finds herself unable to stand against him; he moves at her with his speed greatly imporved. He swings his hammer and Xiwe dodges the attack. She manages to recover her weapon and senses only a void near him. Xiwe gives herself some space and sees that nothing else is wrong. Her warp powers charge up her weapon; everyone calls for Max to eliminate her.
A woman shouts, "She is weak! Kill her!"
A man roars, "Her death will weaken the eldar!"
A person cries, "No, there must be another way!"
A new voice pleads, "The eldar are our allies. We should hear them out."
"The eldar must die like all other xenos."
"Finish her and put her head on a spike."
"This is not our way. We are better than this with our allies."
"It can't end like this. Please, stop this madness."
Xiwe feels her warp powers slowly slipping away. Before she can be ready, Max moves at her with speed similiar to a space marine. Xiwe blocks the war hammer and steps back. Max tries to trip her only to see Xiwe hop above the hammer sweep. She tries to strike him with her lance. Max leans to the side and moves in close to her. He gives Xiwe a hard punch to the stomach and forces her to fall down. She rolls to the side and dodges Max's foot from stomping her. Xiwe uses her lance to trip Max and leaps away from him. She uses her warp power to force imperial soldiers back. Max roars with rage and climbs to his feet quickly.
He shouts, "Your fight is with me. Leave my people alone, witch."
Xiwe turns to Max and receives a hard hit to the face from the war hammer. The electricity sends out a small shockwave as Xiwe falls back to the dirt. Though she quickly recovers, the pain is a strong reminder to her defenses. Max comes at her again and she surprises him by moving in close. She uses her warp power to empower her fist. Xiwe crushes her fist against Max. It stuns him but only for a short time. He counters with a swing of his hammer. Xiwe barely dodges it and leaps back from him. She calls upon her warp power; the energy gathers around her and clouds twist above her head. The wind is strong and powerful. Many people take cover to avoid what comes next. To her surprise, the void comes to the area.
She looks at Max to feel the void come out from him. Everyone feels cold and static cuts most communication nearby. Xiwe growls at him and tries to draw in more. The more she tries, the less she is able to focus. Max holds his war hammer with pride and locks onto the farseer. He is ready to strike at her; Xiwe uses the warp power she has left to try and bring him down. To everyone's surprise, a new portal opens just ahead of Max. It barely stays open and Kayleth steps out. She feels weak knowing she stands next to Max. He stops using his power and Xiwe calms herself. Many look to see what will happen next. She turns to Max. It is a brief moment before Max becomes angry at her.
He asks, "What are you and your kind doing on an imperial world, witch?"
Kayleth carefully replies with cautious words, "I came here to retrieve a web way gate from within your ship that we left undetected. We would have left you alone, but Xiwe wants to see to your death. I pleaded with her to not attack you and she ignored me."
Xiwe roars, "I am only doing what you failed to do against him. This is why he is a threat. He will kill us all if he is aloowed to achieve his full power. You would do well to assist me than stand against me."
Kayleth turns back to her and strongly answers, "It is you who should stand with me more, farseer Xiwe. Max is the only one that can help us put an end to the Sons of Malice. The more you spend trying to fight him, the longer the enemy will use this time to be ready for us. We've just secured a world for ourselves. I urge you to see the larger threat here than waste time on this pointless attempt."
Xiwe hears from the eldar scouts that the web way gate has been secure and replies, "I have no time to finish your task, but you will regret trying to keep him alive. This is on your head, Kayleth. I won't come after him no more; I will let you see his power destroy all that we hold dear. My craft world will be gone before that happens."
Farseer Xiwe disappears from the field. Kayleth turns to Max; she is slightly surprised to see Max now at eye level with her if only by a few inches more.
He says, "You have what you want. Now go and never set foot on Xoen ever again."
Kayleth steps away, but she decides to give him some information. She says, "My craft world is no longer on this world to bother you nor your people. I only wish that you will not be a threat to us. Xiwe sees you as the threat, but I don't view you as the problem. I only..."
Max interrupts her, "The rest of you return to your duty and remain vigilant. As for you, Kayleth of Alaitoc. You may keep your words, secrets, plans, and missions to yourself. I assure you that if any humans come near the world you are on, they will leave you unharmed. You got your web way construct, now go."
Max leaves her only to feel her hand grab his arm. He turns to her and she says, "I still need you..."
He stops her and pulls his arm away. As she looks at him go, she feels nothing. Only a small thought of sorrow hides in the corner of her mind. Max didn't care for what the eldar and what they will do. He only sees humanity growing from this conflict and pushing on. Kayleth teleports away and rejoins the others. Max sees Lina coming to him. She is glad for the results from his recent brawl with the eldar.
She says, "Your fighting improvement is better than it was before. I didn't expect you to be too good. The others nearly joined you, but they didn't see the need for it. I will need more data as you continue to try everything."
He gives her a smile and says, "Well, I am glad for that. If anyone else wants to try for the program, be sure you give them a full checkup before they undergo it. Right now, we got enough of us in good shape for this. And thanks for the hammer. I don't know what energy you put into making the hammer, but it can use a few more additions. I will leave it to you, but I need more exercise for now. My body is sore when I just stand still."
As Max and the others continue with their daily training and testing, the words of the people spread around the imperial fortress. The words of all men cry out for how strong the imperium will be once everything is made on Xoen. All voices of each woman celebrate for how far they come. They speak of Max, Lina, Carl, and Elara leadership; there is no doubt that these four shall bring them greatness. As more and more construction for the settlements keep going, Carl finds himself able to focus on many tasks that require hardly any supervision. He only hears how the landscape must change for easy traveling. As the day keeps going on, he returns back to his home and thinks of how good he has improved. He opens his personal log book and writes down his thoughts.
He writes: "This is a good day to be one of the many that leads the imperium. I can't express how glad I am to have come this far. Xoen is a proper imperial world that will light the Emperor's Will here in this galaxy. We don't know what else is out there, but I know we can overcome it. Linda is keeping our technology pure and holy with daily checkups; Elara is maintaining the morale and discipline of the soldiers. Max is being a beacon for us to look towards. Though we have no space marines nor primarchs, we have our duty and nothing can ever take that from us."
Carl sits back and thinks of the orks and sons of Malice. The orks are violent and crazy when it comes to making their weapons; they have no limit to what they will slap together and turn into a weapon. Each follower of Malice is full of corruption and they see everyone as a target. Now, he lets his mind drift to his friend Shelia and the eldar. They are graceful and full of life. Nothing is beyond their reach when it comes to saving their kind even if it means using others. He sees the tau fire warriors ready for combat. He wonders how the tau forces are their new world. She comes to mind; Carl finds himself thinking of Suu.
He thought, "I hope Suu is doing well. I still can't believe she did that to me. Why would she want a child between us?"
Carl remembers what he did when she told him the news. He was full of rage and angry; the idea of her having a child from him nearly causes him to throw up. Regardless of what he believes, he did want to know if she is ok. He sighs and keeps his thoughts active with the building of the settlements. As the night time slowly comes on them, everyone takes a long break from the construction. The future of the imperial guard is showing promise for a bright future.
Chapter 9: Section 9 - 2
The teeth and fangs chomp down on the flesh; they tear away the meat as each set feast on the dead beast. The flavor is good and its genetic material will help. The sun is almost down and they must hurry to find more food for the tribe. "Run, run and find them." The words keep being spoken to the packs. The hunt is on, and they will feast. A wild animal moves through the tall grass and hurries as fast as it can to escape it enemies. At first, the creature use to eat every animal it came across. It was the predator and everything was its prey. Now, it runs from a pack of vicious hunters and wants to know how far it can go. After escaping the tall grass, it feels something sharp bite down into its neck. The packs have caught up to it and now the time has come. The pack bite its legs and neck; the creature bleeds and becomes weak from its wounds. Now, the leader of the pack comes forward. It pokes the animal and sees it is unable to move. Now, it is time to taste this one.
A hand goes for the knife. It removes the knife from the hip and starts to dig into the side of the creature. A small piece of flesh is taken from the wounded creature. Now, the hand takes the flesh and places it inside the mouth of the kroot leader. The Shaper enjoys the flesh and smiles at the bloody animal before its feet. It roars with delight as the others move in to hack the creature into pieces. They have enough for the tribe and return home to celebrate their victory. Near the bright lights of the fortress, everything is going well. It took them only twenty hours to arrive to the new planet. It would have been twenty years of space travel if they didn't use the FTL drive. The kroot packs enjoy the court yard they made into their home world. It resembles Pech and the packs keep to their regular practices. Many are as large as the orks due to the last battles. Though the Shapers didn't mind large kroot fighters, they make sure to keep them within arms reach. The behavior is stable, but at times, the large kroot members show signs of an ork. Once the hunting packs return, they feast and continue their humble ways.
Within the fortress, many tau citizens enjoy the land they walk on. It is soft and smooth for them to enjoy nature. Many plants grow around the buildings and each one produces a sweet smell. There are sections of this world that have hot, cold, and humid conditions. Each landscape is studied carefully and all its animals are looked upon with great interest. They classify many of them as harmless and occasionally come across some that are dangerous. The humans within the tau empire enjoy the study time and working habits. No one is consider less than the other. Everything is shared. The tau would do all they can to survive in this world. Even before coming here, started to educate everyone on what they may face and how to defend against it. After arriving to their new home, many schools and homes were the first buildings to set up. It took them three weeks to make several buildings useful for housing the innocent people. The military people setup their own fortifications and make everything ready for an attack. It is a long and exhausting job and everyone continues to make things work.
Suu takes a stroll through the citizen area and listens to the chats among the innocent and non-combat groups.
One man says, "I didn't believe we would get this treatment here. My back problems don't bother me any more."
A woman adds, "You got it easy, but I am enjoying what I am learning from their food source teams. We found plenty of ways to use the plants here to eat."
A tau citizen agrees, "You think that is impressive, then you will love the rest of the other fortresses. Wait until you see how they will look when we get this one done. I'm told every fortress will have at least one commander overseeing the area and its construction. They will include a military forward base, a school for education, an airstrip for transporting everything, and a single building for all our advisors."
Suu smirks at what she hears and looks ahead to see so many packs of individuals enjoy their time together. Among one of the groups, she sees a female with a tau fire warrior. It nearly brings a tear to her eye, but she ignores it. Everything is going to well for her to think of such a small issue. Suu returns to the command center and adjusts her thoughts. It was time to decide the future of the tau and how things will be for them. A few high ranking officials are present. Many would speak for the military side and others would speak for the personal growth. Suu checks in with the tau soldiers at the door. Upon entering, she hears many speak of safety, war, conflict, growth, and peace. She is excited to see how this will go. Asuki greets her as they take their place among the ruling leaders and personal guard next to Aun El Rai. The doors are closed and now it is time for the debates to begin. Everyone takes their seat and Aun El Rai opens the discussion with his words.
El Rai says, "This world is now apart of the tau expansion and stands as a testament of what we can do. The world has been named Tova'Sho. I am proud that we stand on this world stronger than ever. But, now our future is clear. How will we expand on this world for the tau empire? Is our technology going to be the answer? Will we thrive from the use of having more followers? Can our military might subdue any attackers that come here? Right now, the future is unclear for us and I am not going to be just the only voice that decides what happens to the tau. I call this gathering here for us to decide what we want for the future. Let us look at what has already happen to us since we met with the humans and eldar."
He continues, "Our war against the enemy will continue, but I would like us to examine all our options and see possibilities where there are none. This is our chance to continue the grand work and make this galaxy into a home for all species. What do you all believe is the best choice?"
A peace speaker opens the discussion and says, "The correct course for us to follow is through peace. Our military might should not be the statement we address in this galaxy. Look at the last failure during the Kaurava campaign. Instead of getting getting any support from the imperial army, space marines, and sisters of battle, we lost more to the orks than gaining a galaxy to rule over. That campaign was a mistake for our empire to undertake. Now, here we are in this galaxy. This new universe holds not only more resources for us, but plenty of worlds to explore, expand, and improve on. I urge you, Aun El Rai, to lead this small empire into a future of peace and growth. It is the best course of action for us. War should be the last choice for us to follow."
As the peaceful supporters clap for the speech, a war advisor disagrees greatly and says, "It is that kind of talk that led us to failure. The very notion of peace is not worth taking or following. We tried it before numerous times with the humans of the imperium; we spoke with the eldar about a possible alliance for a time being. I highly doubt the orks will be so willing to work with us even in the new galaxy. They are as vicious as the forces of chaos. If we are to survive on this world, we must throw aside the ways of caution. As our peaceful diplomat said about the Kaurava system, that was a mistake. Instead of taking the peaceful approach, we must be willing to show our strength, prove our might, and not be willing to carry out execution if needed. The time for peace is over. The Sons of Malice tricked us; the orks are waiting to ravage us. This is the year of war."
The war teams agree for the chance to change up the method; however, it comes back to what the commanders believe is best.
Asuki steps to the war advisors and pleads, "Aun El Rai, the need for war is upon us and it will happen regardless. This is not the time to believe a peaceful approach is called for. We must act now and move aggressively."
Suu stands with the peaceful supporters and replies, "You know that war is a last choice for the tau. I rather walk a path for peace than let the multitudes of war consume us. The tau empire always stood for cooperation."
Shas'O Kais steps forward and says, "You both make good reasons for why there must be peace and the coming war. We understand, but we will continue as before. First, there will be peace talks and trade routes set up. If all goes well, there will be no need for war; however, if there are no other choices, then we will do what we can to make sure the enemy knows how strong we are. If no one has anything else, Aun El Rai will make the final decision for our empire."
Aun El Rai stands on the podium before everyone and broadcasts, "We have come far and the choice for us is clear. We will expand and continue with our plan here. Afterwards, we shall journey in this galaxy and find more places for us to expand and thrive on. The greater good shall not die out so easily. We will win. Return to your posts and make all preparations ready for war should the enemy be so bold to attack us."
As everyone leaves to continue their work, the new alarm system goes off. It screams loud and alerts everyone of a new threat. The tau fire warriors, kroot, and vespid ready themselves for war and the base turns on the guns. Aun El Rai gathers his honor guard and heads to the command tower. From there, he looks on at what his tech teams see. High above the sky and falling fast, the tau see a huge object coming to the surface. Though the fortress only supports half of the population, they stand ready to defend the rest that sleep aboard the Great Spear. The fire warriors and pathfinder scout teams head out into the wilderness. Shas'El Asuki and Suu accompany them; they travel far into the west of the wonderful world. It takes them nearly two hours to arrive at the destination of the object.
The landscape is open and short grass is all around. There is no spot for any of them to hide at. They come to a hill top and look over the edge. Suu sighs at the sight they see. Asuki radios for reinforcements. It is going to be a long night for them. They smash and tear up the surrounding land to make it more orky. The rock is already a platform for their operation to begin. At the top, the chiefs urge their runty orks to be ready to slaughter the enemy. They beat their chest and stomp the ground. The roaring is heard from miles around. It is a mob of orks ready to slaughter their way around the area and make it into a new ork world. As the head ork takes to the top of the rok, he addresses all his mobs of the coming battle.
Ork Chief says, "Knokk it off, all of youz. We'z came to dis ere planet fo ah reazon. I's be da biggest, baddest ork among you. We now gots our own planet ta rule on. So, let'z mak it mo orky fo uz. Kill any ding ya find, bring me sum skullz, and don't spare any ding. Dis is da Waaagh we came ere fo!"
All the war chiefs and orks shout, "WAAAAGH!"
As the orks march out in various directions, many of them tear down trees and set up forward bases. It going easy at first until a new threat comes to them that they didn't expect. A mob comes to a spot and sees dead orks around; they have holes in their head and body. Before any can think of the next move, more pulse rounds go through them. The scout teams and fire warriors step forward and report their success back to the others. About five to ten miles away from the ork forward base, Asuki and Suu continue to monitor the enemy. It takes a toll on their teams, but they know their mission.
Asuki reports to Shas'O Kais, "The orks have one of their 'rok' settlements in the middle of the open. We are stretching our forces too much to make sure the enemy doesn't get too far. We hope you are close to the landmark soon."
Kais replies, "We will be there shortly. We can see the smoke from our location. The ship is also coming by to disable any bases around the bastion. Expect all forces to surround the area within five minutes."
Suu continues to receive alerts from the field teams and orders them, "Keep yourself hidden and stay vigilant. The enemy will be defeated. Reinforcements will be here soon."
As the others continue their patrol around the small base, a small explosion occurs nearby. The tau abandon the small setup and try to fall back. Before they can get far, the orks come to their area. The tau put up a small defense and hold back to ork commandos. Many fire warriors are killed, but they manage to retreat back only to be followed. Shas'El Asuki and Suu look back to find a mob of orks coming at them. They keep running as hard as they can only to see more green muscles come at them. Asuki, Suu, and the others find themselves surrounded by the enemy. They can't run any more and pray their death will be quick. The orks move in only hear a loud hovering sound. The orks look around and see a marvel; the few tau fire warriors look up to see the Great Spear come at them.
The orks roar for a short time. Out from the distance, random pulse rounds fly into the face and body of the orks. Suu and Asuki are glad to see the reinforcements arrive sooner than expected. It doesn't take long before Shas'O Kais sends out heavy teams to cover all possible routes the orks would take. After the forward base is set up, Shas'O Kais meets with Suu and Asuki to discuss the sudden ork surprise. Though the orks do not have any strategist among them, there is always a plan for their acts of war.
Kais looks over the reports and says, "The ork 'rok' has given them an advantage to expect us from either the air or ground. This is going to be a long fight and we can't risk it. Aun El Rai is broadcasting and calling for any to be ready to pick up their weapons should the orks come to close to home."
Asuki adds, "I hope we can eliminate them from this world and secure it firmly against future attacks. Should we call upon our allies for help?"
Suu recalls what Carl once told her, but she locks her mind down on the ork infestation.
She says, "We must stop the orks regardless. We need the imperial forces to help us and end this problem now."
With their mind ready for war, the reinforcements would arrive within a few hours to help them out against the rampaging orks.
Chapter 9: Section 9 - 3
"This is Aun El Rai of the Tau Empire. We are contacting you from planet Tova'Sho in the north region of the Primarex system. We have an ork infestation that requires additional help. I hope the imperial guard is willing to come to our aid. We will keep them at bay until you are able to provide support."
The message is clear and worrying. The insufferable orks are back at it again. They came to the Tau world. Now the xeno ally need help to remove the problem. Max alerts his Carl and Elara to handle this mission. It didn't sit well with him as he comes looking for Max. As the troops follow Elara's orders, Carl and Max have a private chat away from everyone.
He says, "You have got to be kidding me. Tell me this is a joke? Why are you sending me to go help the tau forces? Commissar Elara can handle the issue alone without me coming with her."
Max agrees and replies, "I understand your annoyance with Suu after what she told you, but this is bigger than all of us. If the orks are attacking our allies, then we need to provide them with backup. You can still stay true to the imperial codex, but they are proving more reliable for us to have than the eldar are doing. I need you to go to their world and help them crush the orks. I am giving you full command over this and expect you to be done with this tasks in a matter of days. You don't need to linger around once the problem is done."
Carl sighs and acknowledges his orders. He would go to Tova'Sho and help the tau against the orks. He goes with Commissar Elara to finish up the orders. They would take the small ship to the tau world. As the duo come to view the ship, they find it improved and better equipped. They study the blueprints of the ship and find additional parts added on. The ship has more guns, more drop shuttles, drop pods, and at least five battle tanks. Carl and Elara didn't know when the tech teams had time to do all of this, but the ship is impressive. Once everything is ready, Carl and Elara bid Max farewell as they take to the sky. Max calls to Lina to see how she is doing, but no answer comes from her. He makes his way over to the technology area only to hear static from the radio. Many begin to question what is going on, but Max knows what is happening. He alerts the crowds of people that it is an issue Lina is handling and hurries as fast as she can to get there. He enters and rushes by others who are having trouble with their radio equipment. He opens the door and finds Lina still looking over her radio.
She turns to Max and says, "What is going on? The communication devices are having trouble. I hope you are not using your abilities for nothing."
Max gives her his las-pistol and shouts, "I know you are here. I can tell you are not giving off the same cold sensation I would give. Show yourself!"
Out from the dark corner, she step forward with a unhappy look upon her face. She looks at Lina and Max. Though Lina is ready to turn all her devices on within the room, Max steps forward to her.
The silent woman says, "You had your chance to kill the eldar leaders. Instead you offer them mercy and let them go. I knew Balrok was right, but I didn't think it would come to this."
Max squeezes his fists and grinds his teeth, "You better leave now before I kill you?"
The cold void from Max slowly pushes out. It causes Lina and everyone near to experience the void feeling once again. The silent woman slowly smiles and steps forward. Max stops his power from expanding and sees the woman is ready to embrace the coming danger to herself.
He says, "I hope you realize how much of a fool you and Balrok are. The orks will fail and the Sons of Malice will be shattered. There is no chance for you to defeat me. You would do well to let your master know that I am coming for him. I will stop the orks from ravaging this galaxy. The Sons of Malice will be eliminated. Only when I hold Malice himself over my head and break his back shall his plans die with him. Just like the other Dark Gods of Chaos, they will fail against the Emperor of Mankind. The time for humanity to take its rightful place at the head of the universe is here. And I hope you live long enough to see how it ends."
She slowly giggles and laughs greatly at what Max said. She replies, "Is that how you see the galaxy? You see humanity at the top and all other species dead at your feet? Ha, you are a bigger fool than Horus. The only difference is he held the galaxy in his hands and let it slip from his grasp. You hold nothing; you have nothing. What can you do when you are not willing to take the steps to greatness? I stand before you unafraid and laughing at a man that can decide the fate of the galaxy. Yet, you would rather live in peace and be a family man. You are nothing but a poor example of why humanity is not in charge of the galaxy. Only when Balrok has destroyed you will I arrive to show you how the galaxy ends. I leave for now and remember this, Max Johnson. You will lose everything when the time comes."
She steps back and opens a warp portal. She leaves them with words of a danger coming to them. Max turns to Lina to see her shake with fear as her mind tries to process what happen. He calls to her and calms her nerves. Lina looks to him to see her fear leaving her logic.
Lina says, "You must find a way to stop her. I...I can't..."
Max nods his head and answers, "Do not worry. You and I will find a way to stop her, the Sons of Malice, and Balrok. I should thank Aun El Rai for his idea. Ready the War Harbinger and make additional probes to send out. We are going to find the planet they are on and strike at them. No more waiting for the enemy to come for us. It is time for the imperial guard to strike."
Lina agrees and they both send out a call to everyone across the area; they contact the other settlements and make sure everyone hears the words of battle.
Max announces, "People of the imperium, hear me now. The time is upon us to strike at the enemy. We will protect our home and stop the enemy from coming to destroy it. No more shall we be on the defensive. It is our time to journey out into the galaxy and find the enemy. We will go to where they stay, where they live, and destroy them. This is the time for us to show the Sons of Malice that we are here to stay and they will know our fury. Soldiers of the imperial guard and people of Xoen. Now is our time!"
With the broadcast over, everyone gears up and makes themselves ready to journey out into the galaxy. They feel invigorated to face the enemy. Though Lina and Max will be the only pair to lead their companies into battle, Carl and Elara will return to help them. If they are lucky, the tau will join them and end the madness. As the imperial world preps for war, the eldar take a moment to enjoy what they are seeing. Long gone members of both craft worlds stand among others ready to begin war and share what they know. Xiwe, Kayleth, Veldoran, and Shelia stand together as they look upon a world that reminds them of a better time. The eldar of Alaitoc and Ctho take up their old ancient name; they proudly call themselves the Aeldari in honor of those that can't come back since 'Her' birth. Though the aeldari stand united and glad to be together, only two of them stand on uneven ground. Shelia and Veldoran join the others near the tall buildings and structures. Once everyone is busy, Xiwe and Kayleth look to each other.
Kayleth says, "They are going to be busy comparing what they know. You and I can settle our issues now."
Xiwe scoffs at her, "You mean we can settle your issue with being unable to kill a simple human. Let us go to the far side of the land. Once we are there, the warp will keep us hidden."
The pair warp jump away from everyone and stand near a patch of warp. The warp on the planet is clear and pure. There are several patches of warp energy lingering around the area. It is pleasing to hear the warp sing so nicely. Only a few areas have large concentration of warp circling around the landscape. The aeldari would have taken them, but they keep away from the large warp zone. After two more warp jumps, Xiwe and Kayleth arrive at an area surrounding them with warp energy. Once they pass through it, they stand in the center ready to finish what they started. Kayleth takes her place and lays down her blade on the ground. Xiwe does the same and calms her mind. They look into each other's eyes with so much that has not been answered and said. Kayleth feels her mantle of autarch is being challenged; Xiwe sees a fool incapable of doing her duty. As they sit away from one another, they close their eyes. Rather than risk harming themselves physically, they let their spirits appear in the warp to settle everything.
Kayleth opens her eyes to see the warp flash around her body. Though no weapon is in her hands, she sees that anything can be formed with her mind. Before she can do anything, a surprise comes to her. A strong, sharp hit to the back of her head forces her to fall forward. She whips around and sees Xiwe ready to fight. Kayleth forms a blade in her hand and Xiwe creates a lance. Instead of words, they strike at each other. Kayleth leaps over her opponent and strikes at her. Xiwe dodges the attack and counters with a swing of her weapon. Kayleth easily blocks it and moves in to strike her. Though close, Xiwe uses the warp to shove her back. Kayleth lets some of her connect to Khaine build up within her core. Outside the warp, she is a dangerous fighter; however, Kayleth is a force of terrible might in the warp. Xiwe didn't falter from the might of Kayleth as she throws more warp at her in every possible form. The battle rages on for ten rounds as they try to get the better of each other. Finally, they come to a halt. During the fighting, she spots the fault that gives her enemy away.
Kayleth smiles and shows her wrath, "I see. So, you are trying to use a warp spell that allows you to fight both me and the real Xiwe. Reveal yourself, Balrok. You may fool her, but not me."
The fake Xiwe smiles and reappears as Balrok. His head is constantly changing into different forms before Kayleth; he keeps the eyes gold and black. He holds his staff with pride and smirks at his opponent.
Balrok says, "What gave it away? Was it the attack from behind your head? Oh, perhaps you knew before our fight began. It matters not since your eldar companion is still locked in a duel with you."
Kayleth uses her wrath and connection to Khaine to blast back Balrok. To his surprise, the technique works and Xiwe is found by her side. She is hurt and stands strong as she faces Balrok with Kayleth.
Xiwe says, "This imposter tried to deceive us. I didn't expect him to be so bold to attack us here in the warp. We can end this now if we stop him."
The aeldari pair stand ready to fight and give it their all. Balrok draws more of the warp to him and bathes in the raw energy; he expands it out from within his body and shoves them backwards. They stand ready to face him, but he laughs at them.
Balrok says, "This is a waste of time, but it was fun to see how strong you both are. I would rather let your kind see you both fall before me than kill you here. If you wish to find me, I am not too hard to find. For now, I'll leave you this thought before I go."
He continues, "The eldar, the humans, and the tau will all be ready for our final battle on a planet with patches of life growing on it. Once you arrive, there will be carnage all around us. I have seen how it will be for us all. Only Malice knows the outcome of this war. So, please bring all that you have to bear against me. Bring your kind, bring your friends, bring your allies, and bring those that 'you' love. This will be the war that I see you all die in. Enjoy your peace while you can. I shall be waiting for you."
With his message given, Balrok disappears from their sight. Xiwe and Kayleth leap out of the warp. They jump back into the physical realm and look around the area to see if he is still near. The encounter leaves their mind drain and enlighten.
Kayleth says, "We must find out where he is coming from. We can't wait no longer."
Xiwe agrees, "Yes, it is time to use our powers and see the future. Come, join me now and let us find our foe."
They sit down and cross their legs. The warp flows around them and heals their wounds. It didn't take long before they both share their energy and look into the future of what is to come. The warp circles around them; it forms in the center of the land. As they levitate off the ground, both of their wounds are healed if there ever was any. Kayleth lands softly on the ground and looks around. She sees the very carnage that Balrok spoke of. The land is on fire and there are bodies around them.
She thought, "Is this the future? Is this how we are going to meet our end?"
Chapter 9: Section 9 - 4
The blood of the aeldari is everywhere and none of them have no spirit stones around their neck; each of them has died in various ways. A few have been torn in half. Some were cut or shot down. The warp is heavy here as many died using their power to crush the enemy. As she continues to look, there are humans who are beside them. They are dead too; a gun wound here. A blade is stuck in the side or neck. The view is too horrible to see, but Kayleth moves on. She continues to look around the area and walks up to the top of a hill. Xiwe is standing at the top waiting for her. Kayleth calls to her as she arrives at the top. They both look at a massive grave site. All around the ground are orks, huamns, aeldari, tau, and chaos followers. This can't be the future of what is to come. Are they to die a horrifying death against the orks and followers of Malice? No one is alive save only a few that bleed out from their wounds.
At the center of the mass grave, he walks forward. He stands around the dead and wounded. His hands are bloody and there is nothing else to say. He is alone and looks around to see that everyone is dead and hurting. Kayleth and Xiwe watch him slam the hammer into the ground; the las-pistol drops to the ground. He strips himself of his cloth from the torso. With his eyes full of tears, he falls to the ground and cries. At first, they don't know or understand what they see. Unexpectedly, they feel the souls of everyone gather into the center. It is terrifying and beyond their understanding. Each soul goes into his body and now the warp follows next. They look up to see the stars come to him. It is powerful and dangerous. Everything falls to darkness in this galaxy. There is nothing else left to see; no living plant is blooming. It is only dark and hollow. In the center, only he stands on the planet.
Kayleth says, "This can't be the future. We lose and that is it?"
Xiwe sighs and replies, "This is is what we face regardless of our efforts. I know it to be the mon-keigh Max. If he doesn't die, this is our future."
They both return to reality once again and stand with questions. They both question what they saw, but only one of them stands on the belief that the future is still changing. The other still sees the promise of the future as it is.
She says, "I know you are denying what we saw, Kayleth. That is the future of how this galaxy ends. There is nothing but only darkness and a single person is in the center of a mass grave site. If we can still flee from here, then we should take it and not wait for this final battle. We have what we need to leave. Only when the enemy is weak will the opportunity to leave comes to us."
Kayleth finds herself unable to accept the future and answers, "The future is every changing and what we saw is only what we believe it to be. I know that we are not going to die here. There is still a chance to change what we see and alter our fate. Xiwe, you don't have to believe me. I see the future here for us. Our former ally and new ally can help us change everything. The only option is to flee from here, but who is to say that the future won't come back with us."
Before she can respond, Shelia and Veldoran join them to discuss what they know.
Veldoran says, "It seems that you both do not wish to share with us what is going on and what the future is going to be. I assume that we are looking at an unwelcome death?"
Xiwe coldly replies, "This galaxy is a grave for us all if we stay, but Kayleth here refuses to accept that the galaxy will end. We have seen the future together and know what is coming. Maybe you both can talk sense into her and help her see the folly she follows."
Shelia dances before them and asks, "What future do you see, Kayleth? Do we still have a chance in this galaxy for our kin? Do the humans or tau play any important role with us?"
Kayleth scoffs and says, "The future is still ever-changing. We don't know what the future will be if we change it for ourselves."
Though Kayleth and Xiwe stand on opposite sides of the future that awaits, Shelia and Veldoran offer a different approach.
Veldoran sides with Xiwe and says, "The future may be set for all of us to die, but it can be changed. For now, let us go and find the enemy. We eliminate him before the worse can happen and change our fate. I shall help you Xiew as a proud aeldari of craft world Alaitoc. Let us not waste any time."
Xiwe and Veldoran leave the area. Shelia spins by Kayleth and says, "Do not worry of what they do. I shall support your action and ensure that others follow it to the letter."
Kayleth holds Shelia to her words and bids her return to the camp. Kayleth is alone with her thoughts; she still sees the future can be changed. She sighs and looks deep within her heart. Now, the only issue that reminds is her needs and wants. The sound of a rock falling is made. She whips around to see Shelia is still in the area.
She says, "Your mind is still troubled by what you and Xiwe see for the future."
Kayleth replies, "My words to her fall on death ears. She only sees what the future shows her and ignores how it can be changed. Our farseer means well, but she doesn't want to fight for our future."
Shelia moves to Kayleth, "You mean his future, don't you?"
She continues before Kayleth answers, "The future you fight for is always changing and it can mean the end for us all. Or, it can mean the beginning of a new aeldari life and a possible future with him. Have you not been truthful to yourself about what you truly want?"
Kayleth locks her words and shackles her mind. She says nothing and lowers her eyes.
Shelia smiles and removes her mask, "I know what you both are after. You both wish to see the aeldari thrive here and be alive. The only issue is how the future will look for us. Allow me to help you come to terms with your own issues before you save us all. And before you ask me why I believe, it is simple. The future can change at any time."
They both sit in the center and let the warp circle around them. Shelia opens her mind to Kayleth; the future is shown to Shelia. The mass grave site and sudden darkness that falls on everyone. Shelia joins Kayleth at the top of the hill. They both continue to look at who is in the center of the mass grave site.
Kayleth says, "This is the future that awaits us, but I believe it can be changed."
Shelia looks at the center and smiles with great joy. She turns to Kayleth, "You say all of this death can be changed? How so when we are both seeing what is in front of us?"
She answers, "Our of all the futures we have seen, each of them has changed in various ways and none of them have been certain. I know this future is horrible to see, but only one person can make this future no longer exist. We need his help; Max Johnson can help us change this event into something more. When we first found him on Saneesh, he made everything impossible and changed what was meant to happen to us. On Friga, he gave us and myself something else to believe in. Xiwe may keep seeing him as a threat to our craft world, but I know he will do the impossible."
Shelia looks into the eyes of Kayleth with a smile on her face. Kayleth wonders what she is smiling for and asks her.
She replies, "I see the future will be changed with his help, but you haven't told him have you? And you don't want it to lead you down the wrong path. Why have you not told him? Is it the fear? Is it the shock? Or, do you not want anyone to know?"
Kayleth looks back to the center and sees the single individual stand among the dead. It is easy to see every life form fade away from the land. Kayleth sighs and returns back to the normal space.
Once they are back on the solid ground, Shelia continues to ask the questions over and over again. Kayleth continues to ignore her as they return back to the aeldari base.
Before she leaves her side, Shelia says, "I see why you wish to change the future. But, until you do what you should, the future may not change for the best. I shall leave you to your thoughts. I go to make sure Veldoran and Xiwe are not looking too much in the warp to find the great enemy."
Kayleth stands alone just a mile from the base. She recalls everything that has happen to her kin since coming here. Now, she sees the cold expression on Max. The words still sting her slightly when he orders her and the aeldari to leave Xoen. She now remembers the last time they fought. Regardless of how strong she was, the rage and desire to hurt him was there. Instead of giving into the need to hurt him, Kayleth finds herself nearly dying. He stabs her side and causes the blood to leak out. There is so much to deal with; she finds herself jumping from one emotion to another. Kayleth looks deep within herself.
It is quiet. The thoughts are silent and clear. Her eyes are shut and all there is nothing but darkness. Kayleth breathes with ease and keeps herself calm; the noise around her is smooth and relaxing. The warp slowly moves toward her and slips through her. Now, she sees an image that didn't occur before. She looks around and finds herself in a field with some flowers growing. It is peaceful and nothing is wrong. The more she looks around, the more the landscape appears. There are flowers everywhere and random noises can be heard. In the distance ahead of her, she hears a water fall. She comes to the edge and views how wonderful it is. It is peaceful and wonderful to see. Kayleth turns around to see Max standing before her. Unsure about it, she wonders what is going on. He turns from her and leaves the area. Before she can reach him, the vision ends.
She thought, "What was that? Why did everything feel so peaceful? Is this a trick from Balrok, or was it a possible fate I can take?"
Unable to make sense of what she saw, Kayleth pays it no mind. She did realize one thing about the vision. If all was going to be what she saw, then they must not wait until the worse comes to them. She arrives back at the base to see the aeldari ready to hear the words of farseer Xiwe. The eldar of Alaitoc and Ctho all stand in attendance with hope in their hearts.
Xiwe says, "To my kin and fellow aeldari of Alaitoc, the time is upon us. I have seen the future and it shows us only death. The humans will die, the orks will perish, and even the young tau will be eliminated by the hands of the great enemy. Our path for us is clear and we must prevent this from coming to us. I call upon all of you to help us stop the coming danger to us. The enemy is waiting for us, but we shall strike first. They are using a dangerous foe to conceal their actions; however, we will be the ones to stop them. Let the enemy hear the screams of the craft world Ctho. The banshees of Alaitoc shall strike true without fear. Our time is now."
The aeldari feel their souls invigorated to stop the threat; the journey home would be a long one, but they are willing to bear the threats to get there. The aeldari now have hope and there is nothing that will stop them. Xiwe and Veldoran rally the bone singers to make additional ships; Kayleth and Shelia join them to discuss the future plans. Though skeptic of what they are thinking, everyone shares what they will do when they find the Sons of Malice.
Veldoran says, "I understand we have the numbers to fight our foes, but it is still a good plan to invite the young tau to our battle for long range support. We don't need to be going in foolishly. Let us send one scout or more to Xoen and convince their leader to assist us in battle against the enemy. The humans will be useful later on if we require additional firepower. I shall lead the warlocks and warp users against the other forces the enemy has acquired for this battle."
Shelia adds, "Your plan can work. I shall bring in my harlequin fighters to support you and will provide you any support needed. If the tau help us, their kroot warriors shall serve as my support and do what they can to ensure our survival. This will give you time to focus on the enemy in front of you and we shall surprise the enemy with ambushes."
Xiwe agrees to their support, but Kayleth and her still stand at odds. The two didn't get along on many issues, but Xiwe is hoping that Kayleth will be committed to war.
Xiwe asks, "I already have my own plan for what I must do. What are your plans, Kayleth?"
Kayleth cleverly replies, "My plan is to use the humans as a lure and provide them with false information on a safe planet to live on. Once they agree to send their people to the planet, the orks shall provide them with a fight so we can concentrate on the real threat. Even if things go terrible for them, the mon-keigh will have weakened the enemy or taken them out of the fight for us. I shall lead the final assault on the leader. I hope you will be able to provide support when the time comes."
Xiwe believes her words and agrees to make sure she will be there to help Kayleth bring the enemy down. With the plans ready and the aeldari at full strength, Kayleth excuses herself to make sure one more thing is ready for when it is time. As the others continue with their plans and prepare for war, Kayleth disappears from the others and finds herself a quiet spot.
She thought, "You may hate me for this when the time comes, but I believe this choice will aid us and be what we need."
Kayleth comes to two bone singers. They created a small shuttle for her to use. She bids them farewell until she returns back. With her mind set on what comes next, she climbs into the shuttle and sets course for the imperial world Xoen.
Chapter 9: Section 9 - 5
The sound is heard all around the area. It only took them a few weeks to discover this planet. It is barren with some trees and green landscape. The sound is loud and full of rage. There are many bastions at different sites with tribes. Each tribe is of a different type and all answer to the one that sees the true vision of their deities. The leader sees this galaxy covered in waves of green muscles; there is nothing but their enemies in front of them. They are anxious and ready to slaughter those that challenge them. On this world, the only few things that matter are teeth, metal, status, and who is 'bigga'.
In the first tribe, one chieftain loves how sharp his axe is. He claims it can cut down a wave of bad guys with ease. Due to his might, the others make their own axe as sharp as the chief. Maybe one day they can cut down armies with a swing of their army. The next tribe is a huge group of speed freaks that love the smell of gasoline and driving by on wheels of carnage. They upgrade their vehicles as much as they can to make sure it is loud when they approach their prey. A third tribe is proud of how much damage their 'rokket' weapons can do since they painted them all yellow and orange. The chieftain won the vote after a few headbutts convince others that the color 'yello iz betta, ya git'. A chief among those that favor bullets and guns took his title after making a few cannons around his camp to ensure the world has more 'dakka' firepower; it didn't take the other half long to agree that more bullets is better too. The last group and majority of the others only understand strength. The war-boss has plenty of muscle and lots of hordes that are ready to fight the moment he gives the word. If there is one thing that War-boss Tharacka did for the orks, he did bring them to a world for future expansion.
One of the chieftains forward to Tharacka and gladly reports, "Everyting iz readi fo uz boss. We'z got mo power den wha da humies, elda, and grey-skins hav. Da chiefz ar readi fo ya to lead dem to a new waaagh."
War-boss Tharacka chuckles and replies, "Dem grey-skin, humies, and elda ar in fo ah good stumpin'. We'z readi fo dem and dis will be da last fight of their livez."
He walks over to the large brute with his staff ready to strike down any that approach him or even think to attack him. Balrok stands among millions upon millions of orks ready to cleave his head open.
Balrok says, "You just need to make sure that this is the fight will bring them all together."
Tharacka threateningly replies, "You'z bezt watch yo wordz, humie freek. I tak no ordas from you."
Balrok smiles and says, "You wanted a planet to thrive on? I helped you find one out here. You wanted revenge against those that harmed you years go? They are here with their allies and new comers. I told one of your ork clans to take the fight to them on a planet only one solar system away from here. All I ask is that you keep to your word and make sure that everyone comes to the planet I need you all on. Once the imperial guard, eldar, and tau come there, the real fighting will begin. I need you to keep to your word if you desire the fight you so badly want."
Tharacka moves to him and roars, "You'z kep yo word, but da orks of Tharacka don't answer ta you, humie. We'z kno da enemy iz comin' ere. You'z betta stay out ta da way wen da fighin' start, or else we'z stump you too."
Balrok bows and adds, "Very good, War-boss Tharacka. I have sent your 'servant' teams the last known location of where to go for the ultimate battle. I shall take my leave of you and hope to see your clan there ready for the greatest war ever."
With his last words given, Balrok walks away into the distance land away from the orks and disappears. It would still be a while before everyone would be at the battle grounds.
One of the ork chiefs turns to Tharacka and asks, "Why iz we talkin to da humie instead of killin' him? He'z wit da chaos boyz, ain't he? Dey ain't stronger den orkz."
Tharacka scoffs at the notion and answers, "Dey iz not worth da fight. Not even ah real challeng fo da boyz or runty orkz. If dey waz stronger den us, they wouldn't need any of uz. We'll go to da planet and kill off da humies, da elda, and da grey-skinz. One wen dey ar all dead, we'z gonna go after dat humie and kill his boyz as well. We'z da orkz and we'z made fo fightin' everyone. now, gatha da boyz and letz go to da planet. Ah waaagh iz upon uz and we need ta be readi. Tell da boyz dere's sum killin' ta do."
The ork chief and war-boss look out into the massive ork kingdom. It is a wonderful site to see as they stomp the ground with joy. There are so many clans and chiefs keeping the mobs in order and making sure none of them stray too far from the others; the gretchin continue to build up stock piles of weapons and help ork techs slap together weapons and guns. The whole planet is becoming a home for orks like none have ever seen. There are towers stretching to the sky with orks waiting to shoot down anything flying vessel. Many smaller orks keep the fires going as they keep everything in a nice orky appearance. Tharacka roars loudly and keeps the mob focused on the next waaagh coming. He orders them to use their new traveling device to get across the stars.
Chieftains of each clan order the orks to climb into the massive ork roks of metal and rock. Though poorly put together and mostly slapped on, the orks are ready to use them to travel across the stars and smash into any planet capable of supporting life. Tharacka heads to his ship to watch his orks use the mighty 'Cannons of Travel' devices that loads up each rok. It was time to send more green skin hordes into the galaxy. The ork techs smile at how great their work is and how much power it has. It took them nearly the same amount of time it did to take over the planet. The large, giant cannons would send their clans far into the dark reaches of space be it safe or dangerous. As the ork ship rises up into the orbit with Tharacka sitting in the center, the cannon aims into the space. All the wires are hooked into a single button. The ork tech pushes it with so much joy.
Boom! Blam! The thundering sound of the cannons work greatly and sent two successful ork roks into space towards the destination. Tharacka orders his ship to follow them as fast as they can get the ship going, but it would be a good amount of time before the roks would get to the world they are going. Down below, the ork tech teams smile at how well the cannon works. After only failing over twenty times to create the new method of travel, the orks now can send out mobs all over the galaxy without a hitch. It is too bad the cannons would need more of the minerals to repair it and build it back up. Tharacka makes sure his chiefs and would-be bosses keep the ork world secure. He is going to a new planet to fight the enemy. Far from the ork tribes and clans, he stands and watches. Everything is going well for him and the plans.
Balrok thought, "This is going exactly how Malice wants it. The ultimate battle would begin on a world barren of life. Nothing but the dirt and sand under their feet. There would be rocks and landscape everywhere with plenty of ways for accidents to happen. I can't wait to achieve my dark lord's plans and give him the chaos he desires."
As Balrok enjoys what the view, he is disturbed by her calling. He turns to the silent woman and is disappointed to see her here.
She says, "My lord Balrok, I bring you news of the enemy and their movements."
Balrok interrupts her and says, "You have failed me once. I will not tolerate failure any more from you."
He draws the warp from her body, causing her pain. Balrok continues, "I already know that you failed to stop Max when he woke up. Your failure is something I will not allow to continue. I would rip your soulless body into pieces if Malice didn't want you to continue being in his service. So, here is your new orders. You are to take a single ship into the galaxy and spread the word of Malice to any other being alive. Do not come back until Malice calls for you. As for me, I will eliminate you if you fail Malice any more. Do you understand?"
As the pain continues to hurt her, she agrees to the condition only to feel the rest of her warp powers leave her body. Though she is a blank like Max, the connection to the warp from the daemon power within her made it easy for Balrok to harm her. She slowly gets up and steps away from him with her eyes looking at the ground. The pain comes to her, but she honors the words of her lord and deity. As she leaves the area to go and perform her duty, Balrok returns back to watching the others through the warp. Everything is painful and hurts her.
She thought, "How did I fail the Dark God Malice? How am I worthless and unworthy in his eyes?"
She tries to open a warp portal and nothing happens. She tries again and sees nothing appear. Instead of the warp portal opening, a small ball of warp energy comes to her. It is bright and small; it glows and spins around her. She is confused as to why this is happening. Suddenly, a voice calls to her with a message.
The warp ball says, "You must spread my message across these stars. Balrok deems you worthless, but I see a new future for you to cause more chaos. Now, take your ship and go into the distance systems. Spread my name to others and gather more followers. When the time comes, I shall bless you all with power beyond your own vision. Your time is not over yet."
The message makes her smile and she stands firm in the face of what is coming. She heard the voice of her dark god. Now, she has a purpose to do. A new portal opens before her and she steps through to begin her tasks.
As they gather their gear and continue to make the last preparations, their leaders stand waiting and wondering what the enemy will do next. On one side, Kais sees the orks ready to rush out to battle their foes head on. Asuki looks at the map and points out the possible routes they can take to avoid the enemy. Suu argues how hazardous the area is since the orks have taken over a few areas. Carl finally snaps at them all and gains their attention.
He says, "None of you are making this battle easy for anyone. It is simple when it comes to fighting the orks. Here is what we all will do regardless of what your codex on battle teaches. First, Shas'O Kais will lead the first attack and draw the enemy out. Shas'El Asuki will provide support with the kroot warriors battling out the enemy. The more you keep up the pressure, the more the orks will come. Once they do that, Suu will swing towards the east and use the signal flare to alert the barracuda teams to fly in and start a hit and run on the base. I'll alert the Purity Blade ship to fire from orbit. Commissar Elara is still anxious to carry out her duty. Now, if none of you have any objections to this plan, we will begin."
Shas'O Kais agrees to the tactic; Asuki and Suu support the plan and pray it works. It has been only a few weeks and the orks continue to show no signs of breaking. The ork bastion makes it hard to assult them with so much fire power stopping all attacks from coming. As they move out and ready their teams, Suu takes a moment to speak with Carl. She finds him ordering the soldiers to be ready to move in when the real problems come up. Once the soldiers leaves, Carl turns to see Suu waiting for him. He tries to ignore her only to see that she wants to talk.
Carl sighs and says, "If you are here to give me any more status updates on the orks, it can wait. We have a plan and must execute it before the enemy catches on and moves on us. These last two weeks have not been easy."
Suu approaches Carl with nervous hands and replies, "I am sorry for never telling you about my idea for wanting to keep your line going. It had to be done for..."
He interrupts her, "Yes, yes. I know. It was done for the Greater Good of the tau. I sometimes wonder if you did this for yourself. In any case, it is over and we have orks to kill. If you want to talk after the battle is over, then we will. For now, let's focus on surviving the next hour before the orks decide to make us their new targets."
She holds back her smile and goes to find her team. Once he alone, Carl groans in anger.
Carl thought, "This is why I didn't want to come here. Now, I have her to deal with and those damn orks. I pray that she survives this so we can talk. Wait, why would I want her to survive this? She is a damn xeno of the tau. Ugh, let me just get my kit in order before I am unable to slay an ork. She better have her own weapon ready too."
The tau and imperial escort all continue set up for the new plan of attack. As the orks stand ready to receive battle, the hidden scout teams report back to the tau what they see. It didn't show any signs of openings for them to attack head on. Once the scouting is done, the teams fall back as Shas'O Kais and Shas'El Asuki march forward to begin their attack. The fire teams are ready as the kroot packs stand next to them. Even a few imperial soldiers join them by their side with nerve of steel. The orks would come to them if they slay enough. After walking for one hour, the tau come to a halt. They look on to see the orks come forward. Behind the ork mobs, the bastion is still strong and ready for any attackers. The time for carnage would begin soon. Shas'O Kais steps forward and activates his cloak suit. He rushes at the enemy as a silent predator. Once he is close, the weapons come on at full power.
