Hey folks! Been awhile! A lot of things have happened - both school and fanfiction - but nothing too serious.
To start things off, I have officially moved all of my QAs to my profile page. Originally I was going to set up a story primarily for QAs but after reading the guidelines, I have decided not to do it in fear of being reported and possibly banned (even though as far as I am told, the administration hasn't been active lately but just making precautions in case). Simply put, just open my bio and be prepared for a WHOLE-ASS wall of text. You have been warned.
Moving on, I am still holding the polls but I plan to end it next Monday. So be sure to place in your votes. Until then, thank you for participating.
And another thing to add, it seems a lot of readers were confused about Asya. If you didn't get the hint, she's the same spy besides Feliceth who is gathering information on DG. To be specific, she is of the Lahmian Bloodline and one of her abilities includes Familiar Form and Domination. If those names don't explain themselves, you're getting the BONK.
In other news - and ones that are outside of my personal circle - I am quite excited for the new model for the Dark Master himself, Be'lakor! And damn, does he have a SICK revamp! And since CA is now collaborating with GeeDubs, I hope to see him as the final boss for TWW3!
And speaking of surprises, DOOM Eternal TAG2 just got leaked! And HOT DAMN do the new images look LEGENDARY!
Past me: Alright! After finally mapping out the storyline, I think it's safe to say that I'm good to go without breaking continuity!
*Sees Night Sentinels on the official promotional cover for DOOM Eternal TAG2*
Past me: *Proceeds to throw everything that was just planned.* *CRASH*
Tit-Snitch: LOLOLOLOL
Jokes aside, I can't wait for the trailer next Monday! I'll update this chapter to give out my thoughts on the trailer after!
Finally, it's official: We have finally reached the Siege of Naggaroth! No more Asur pricks! No more politics! Just full-blown action!
But Doomguy ain't involved (in the action) just yet.
*Cue boos and Molotov Cocktails*
ALRIGHT! ALRIGHT! Jeez! Look I get it! I was about to write him with dynamite but decided to save it for the next chapter! Look, as much as I would love to write him kicking daemon ass, I think it's time I gave a little love to the titular characters front and centre: Valkia and Malekith.
So take this chapter as an introduction to the next arc of this Doom/WFB crossover. Also, I would like to make a big shoutout to Malgrath for helping me out with the siege sequences! And looking forward to collaborating with him in the future when I pull out the big guns in the Empire! Literally!
Karl Franz: THIS ACTION DOES HAVE MY CONSENT!
Yeah, yeah, Karl! Hold your horses! We haven't reached Mannfred just yet.
Anyways, enough bantering from me!
Enjoy!
The Warp
A meeting was called among the Dark Gods themselves. Khorne was the one to uphold it as he realized that the others remained distressed and hysterical with the Hellwalker's arrival. He was immune to his presence, of course. Given his title as "war god", his mind was thankfully intact. And as much as could laugh at their misery, it was becoming detrimental to their followers and were needed for the Everchosen's schemes.
All the gods sat in their respective seats. And what the Blood God witnessed was completely laughable and somewhat pitiful.
To his right, Tzeentch was jittering and shaking in his seat; constantly clattering his teeth while shifting and morphing his form exponentially than usual, all the while scribbling notes on his paper before throwing them over his shoulder. To his left, Nurgle kept bawling and weeping while still holding on to a completely soaked, disease-riddled piece of napkin in one hand. And finally, sitting opposite of him was Slannesh, who in many ways got off worse than the other two. Still in hir ridiculously pink bathrobes, with countless empty bottles of elixir alcohol lazily strewn on the table, she looked absolutely miserable compared to even the Plaguefather himself; glaring back at Khorne who was nonetheless unphased.
Seeing the state of things, it was high time that Khorne himself had to step in and get the others back in shape.
"It appears that there has been... distress in our realm. As you all know by now, the Doom Slayer has come to this world. Which most likely means that Hell has failed to contain him. However, I believe it's best that we enact with our business as usual, and that all of us presume with the current present." Khorne suggested. This earned a snide remark from the Dark Prince.
"Of course, the warmonger has the brains to be the diplomat while Tit-Snitch here is snivelling and trembling with fear." Slaanesh sneered.
"IT'S TZEENTCH! AND I AM NOT SNIVELLING!" Tzeentch snapped. "I-I just need to make calculations and contingencies to avoid further derailment from existence."
"WhAt's ThE PoINt?" Nurgle wheezed. "THe DeSTROyeR haS retURNeD! We ShOUlD juST gIvE uP aNd PAcK evERyTHing we HavE AnD rUn."
"And where to, you waste of flesh?!" Slaanesh snarled. "Do you honestly think we can just up and leave like last time?! We have lost the means of opening up another dimensional gate after those bastards tricked us and threw that rabid dog in our direction!"
"W-Wait!" Tzeentch jumped. "If they have failed, perhaps we can somehow send a message and lend in a peace offering! Surely they woul-"
Suddenly, Dark Prince threw an empty bottle at the ever-changing god, who was too distracted to notice the glass shatter in his face; causing him to squawk and clutch his own face at the retaliation.
"SCREW THEM!" She screeched. "I WOULD RATHER HAVE SIGMAR'S HAMMER UP MY ASS THAN SAY SORRY TO THOSE SHIT STAINS!"
"oF COuRsE, yOu wiLL." Nurgle gurgled. "It'S tHE oNLy ThINg yOU'Re gOOd At."
"Still hung up on Isha?" She retorted. Nurgle jumped out of his seat and began hurling literal garbage, which was met with an even more repertoire of insults from his fellow god, followed by Tzeentch joining on the three-way battle. Khorne watched in silent annoyance as he listened to the colourful language involved.
Tired of their childish tantrums, Khorne stood up from his seat and slammed his axe onto the table before them.
"ENOUGH!" He yelled in command. The impact from the axe was enough to disquiet the other three, forgetting whatever argument they had earlier. The axe disappeared and the table began to reform after. Tensions had lowered, but not eased. Khorne spoke up once more.
"Let me remind you all that our current Everchosen is heralding the total annihilation of this world. If he succeeds, we are free from this realm and granted the means of conquering stars yet again. However, to do so, all of our followers must be in proper mind. I am the only one whose loyal subjects haven't been affected by the same madness you three have subjected yourselves to. And as a token of... gesture... I will be the first with the most casualties. The three of you have yet to face him, so take this time to bring your followers back up to speed."
"And what does that make you, brute? The designated leader?" Slaanesh questioned. "You, of all gods, benefit from this whole drama! Why should we obey you?!"
Nurgle and Tzeentch oddly enough agreed and looked at the Blood God with suspicion. Khorne said nothing at first. Only leaning slowly on the table.
"I never said I was. However, I am the God of War. And it is my purpose to lead the front. You three need to lick your wounds and get your shit back together. If not, then I'll die first, leaving the rest of you headless to fend off the Hellwalker's rampage. But with all four together, we may have the chance to end his pursuit of vengeance. That is... if... we co-operate. Any protests?"
All three stared in silent contempt. But there was no argument to be made. Tzeentch, for all of his rivalry with the Brass Lord, was the first to agree.
"As much as I hate you, Khorne... you certainly make a point. The pieces are moving and we cannot afford another delay. This will be our greatest plan. We cannot restart. Only push forward."
"I... cONcEDe." Nurgle wheezed. "My cHILdRen WEeP aND THeRE iS nO onE To sOOtHE ThEiR PaIN. I mUST RetURn To tHEm aNd NurTURe thEM bACk tO HaPPIneSs."
Khorne nodded and finally laid his eyes upon Slaanesh, who was still in hir miserable state.
"Slaanesh? Do you have any issue with this?"
The silence was the initial reception. Eventually, She gave in.
"So long as that fool is killed by one of you, then I'm willing to lend my hand." She answered.
"Good." He replied, sincerely. "Then the matter has been settled. Off you go. I have a slaughter to witness."
The gods went their ways. Khorne was glad to see this bickering end. As much as he desired their demise, this was not a time to do so.
War has awoken, and he would see the end with blood flowing and skulls surfacing to the top.
Mein Herz Brennt - Rammstein
Tower of Cold, Naggarond
The snow died down. Silence stirred the wind for what felt like forever. Only did the sound of muffled footsteps break the silence.
Hailing from the north, hordes of barbaric warriors and followers of their Dark Gods march towards the walls of the Dark Elves with steel and malice. Giants, dragon ogres, and mammoths shake the earth underneath their feet. Skalds banged their drums and bannermen hold the flags of the Blood God's emblem.
Leading at the front was the Gorequeen herself. Behind her, was a mass of over four hundred seventy-five thousand men; a third of the original worshippers. The army had been divided into three groups. Arbaal's legion was to attack Ghrond and Har Ganeth, Wulfrik's to raid Clar Karond and Karond Kar by ship, and Valkia's to annihilate Naggarond and Hag Graef after.
She marched until she saw the gates before her. The army halted as she raised her hand in the air.
The walls of Naggarond stood between them and the city; casting their shadows like immovable titans. Even giants could not reach the true height of them, for the Dark Elves took pride in their cowardly ways. The tower stood proudly in the skies; a blight to the eyes of Valkia.
This only angered her more, which made it all the better when she finally toppled the tower and separate the Witch-King's head from his shoulder.
She could see the elves on the walls; no doubt awaiting their arrival. They will meet their demise soon enough.
With spear in hand, she raised it overhead and sounded the cries of war.
0:56
"CHAAAAAAARGE!" She roared. And the warriors of Chaos began to swarm the walls with righteous fury.
From the tower, the Witch-King looked down at the red mass. Flowing from the north like a river of blood, the barbarians were chanting their wretched god's name and howled their creed with bloody murder as they swarmed the walls. Monsters began to besiege and readied their weapons to strike down the barrier that protected Naggarond. Darkshards and Bolt Throwers on the walls began shooting barbed bolts; striking in a storm of arrows that repelled the first wave of marauders while slaves threw rocks down under at the survivors. Harpies let loose by their beastmasters soared through the air and swooped down on any unlucky prey they could get their talons on while Manticores butchered the warriors with tooth and claw. The monsters took the brunt of the assault but still were undeterred as they reached for the walls. The sorceresses that Morathi lent were of great use and threw their dark magic at the barbarian and their beasts of burdens as their dark pegasi flew above them.
Malekith then took notice of the leader standing front and center to his crowned jewel. Through his sight, he instantly recognized her among the crowd. Where the barbarians charged mindlessly to the walls, this one stuck out like a rock against crashing waters.
Suited in bloody red armor, with horns curved over grey hair and wielding spear and shield in hand; both gruesome in visage. Her appearance was distinguishable against the background.
Valkia the Bloody. The Bride of Khorne.
As if sensing his presence, Valkia stared back at Malekith and smiled maliciously.
But Malekith was unafraid. Not in the least bit. Carrying his sword, the Destroyer, on his shoulder, he raised his other and magically beckoned Seraphon to him. The dragon arrived and landed in front of him, bowing his head to allow him to mount. Malekith climbed up and took his seat on the dragon's back. Mounted and armed, Malekith adjusted his holsters and prepared himself.
"Conquer the skies, Seraphon!" He commanded. "Burn the savages!"
With one mighty roar, Seraphon jumped from the tower and spread her wings. Other black dragons heard her call and followed her lead. They flew from the west and spewed black fire on their unsuspecting enemies. Those who took notice managed to throw up their shield in an attempt to avoid the agonizing flames. The rest, however, were completely engulfed by the flames, including some of the monsters who swung mindlessly in an attempt to die the flames down; accidentally killing their allies in turn. The result was the scent of burning heathen flesh filling the air and disrupted cooperation by gigantic beasts; stirring the other monsters up in a frenzy. This was not over, however, as the survivors recovered and regrouped as they continued their assault. Malekith knew that this was not the end of it, and was prepared for the next step.
From the east, a portal opened up and out came scores of Cold One Knights and Doomfire Warlocks. Leading at the front was Malus Darkblade, riding atop his nauglir - Spite - and charging with warpsword in hand. The Khornates that were still recovering had little time to defend themselves as the cavalry crashed into the hordes. Heads and limbs flew into the air as the riders swung their blades into the Khornates while their steeds sank their teeth into unprotected flesh. The berserkers were not helpless either and took down some of the riders as well in retaliation. The riders soon regrouped and retreated as a portal opened up.
It was far from over, and the battle raged on. Malekith surveyed the grounds as his dragon continued flying above the battlefield. More barbarians kept coming, and there was no end to them. As he continued to survey, a high-pitch noise caught his ear. Malekith looked up and saw Valkia descend upon him with her spear. Malekith magically cast his Spellshield to his free hand and raised it within mere moments as the spear crashed into the shield instead. The shockwave from the impact staggered both fighters in the air. Malekith was almost unholstered from his steed but Seraphon remained steady and made sure her master was alright. The Gorequeen continued her attack but Seraphon snapped back at her with gnashing teeth. Valkia raised her shield; blocking what could have been a fatal blow. Seraphon backed off and prepared to spew fire upon her. Khorne's bride flapped out of the way and dodged the incoming flames. She then retreated and Seraphon was on the hunt. Both rider and beast chased after the Gorequeen through his city. Valkia swooped through the streets as Seraphon tailed behind; unleashing black fire as the daemon princess narrowly escaped through tight corners and loops.
The chase went on for too long and it frustrated Malekith to no end. Followers of the Blood God, despite their infamy for bloodshed, were somewhat honorable and were renown to never flee from a fight. Yet Valkia was suddenly going directly against those tenets and had him chasing all over his city.
"Just what are you planning, wretch?" He thought.
As he saw her go around the corner, Seraphon followed only to find her suddenly vanished out of thin air. Malekith was confused and quickly noticed that he was at a crossroads. The Witch-King looked everywhere; fully prepared for a surprise attack.
As he predicted, he sensed her approach from behind and raised his shield once more. What he didn't predict was Valkia charging straight to the dragon's head with her shield as a battering ram. The blow disoriented Seraphon and was now crashing towards the asphalt below. Malekith grabbed on for dear life as they got closer to the earth. Seraphon wound up crashing into a building while her master was sent flying into one of the rooms. Malekith crashed and found himself on the floor face first. Despite the pain, he forced himself up with his falchion and looked around; struggling to get his bearings. He paid little attention when Valkia body-slammed him and sent him flying outside the building. His circlet and adrenaline were kicking in and Malekith was now grabbing onto one of Valkia's horns; losing her balance in the process and taking her with him. Both crashed to the soil below from several feet above. Valkia forced herself back up and charged at the downed king. Malekith was quick to dodge to his left as he narrowly avoided the barbed spear landing into his chest. His falchion and shield were nowhere to be seen, forcing him to block with his gauntlets as Valkia swung her spear. The blow sent him stumbling back but manage to roll over and get back on his feet. With enough distance, Malekith managed to teleport before she could attack again. He reappeared cast his weapons back in his hands again and blocked the daemon princess' spear and retaliated with his own swing. Valkia likewise blocked and kicked him away, using her wings to keep her distance.
Both leaders were now alone but armed. The sound of battle raged in the background but was paid little attention by either of them. They circled one another, keeping themselves at bay while observing each other's movements. Valkia dragged the tip of her spear; sparks flying as it scraped the floor beneath her feet.
"It is a great pleasure to finally claim your skull, Your Highness." Valkia started.
"Do not flatter me, Bride of Khorne." Malekith replied. Curiosity piqued her interest.
"You know who I am?"
"I learned enough from the barbarian mercenaries I hired before - along with a few other contacts." He answered. Valkia laughed grimly.
"Then you know why I've come here."
"Enlighten me."
"Very well. The Blood God has deemed you a coward. You are nothing but a usurper. A false king. Kingslayer and Oathbreaker. He has deemed your skull worthy to collect... worthy to be used as a slave for the Daemon forges."
Malekith laughed at her god's demands. "It'll take more than a few meagre words to have me cower. And what makes you believe that you to be so mighty when you yourself have made those same mistakes? You've had me chase you across this city, unmounted me from my steed without warning, and tried to kill me while I was unarmed. You are as honorless as I am."
Valkia growled in kind. "Yet honorless, you remain! You do not deserve a warrior's death! You will die a wretched parasite while I tear that crown off and show it to my beloved!"
"Then come and prove your claims!"
Valkia roared and charged at him with Slaupnir while Malekith raised his shield and prepared to strike with the Destroyer. The clanging clash of steel and the furious roar of two lions echoed the air of war even as the siege continued from the walls.
Tower of Prophecy, Ghrond
The sound of battle raged outside of her fortress just as Morathi remained in her blood pool. The magical fortifications she had installed were put to good use and her guards and sorceresses gave their all in fending off the Norscans. Morathi took the time to settle in her pool for a bit before she made her escape. She just wanted to enjoy one last bit of respite, really.
The dust from the ceiling, of course, ruin that measure of peace to herself and forced her out of the pool.
"Damn buffoons..." She grumbled. She grabbed her towel and wiped herself dry. The mirror in the room began glowing and it brought to her attention. She approached and reactivated to see who had called.
The mirror's reflective surface changed and shifted to reveal the caller. Laying in front was Feliceth herself, equipped in her Handmaiden armor. Oddly enough, she seemed a bit... relaxed.
Her helmet was slightly tilted to the right, much of her equipment had been assembled in a rush, making her look as if she either had a hangover or had been distracted on duty - or both - and there was a noticeable hickey on her neck. Not that Morathi cared much but she waited expectantly.
"Greetings, Mother Morathi."
"Greetings, my child," Morathi replied. "What news have you bring to light?"
"Great news, Mother." Feliceth answered. "The warrior you seek is on his way to Naggaroth."
Morathi blinked in surprise. "I beg your pardon."
"He's heading to Naggaroth, milady," Feliceth repeated. "He'll be arriving in a week from now. He just left the island this morning."
Morathi's lips instantly form a grin as the thought of the knight's arrival excited her. She didn't have to lure him after all. Just let this man travel by his lonesome and he will surely land in her clutches the moment he set foot on Druchii shores.
"Good! Good!" She exclaimed. "Such wonderful news! This will speed up my plans! Care to explain why he wanted to go there?"
"Yes, m-mother. He intends to arrest Malekith." Her spy answered. Morathi's grin remained but her eyes widened again.
"Come again." She flatly said.
"He is planning to arrive in Naggarond with the attention of bringing the king to Ulthuan on trial. He is with the Shadow King as we speak."
"W-What?!" She screamed. Morathi fumed in rage, earning a wince from Feliceth. That cursed Alith was heading with the Slayer as well. She hadn't forgotten that time he snuck into her fortress and stole the Stone of Midnight. The nerve on that man! She ended up getting an earful from Malekith for her incompetence. How was she supposed to know that the party she was hosting had been infiltrated by Alith in disguise as a guest?
Just the thought alone flared up her wrath all over again. At the very least, that Slayer was coming so not all was lost. But the problem still remained.
If they plan to arrest her son - however impossible that task would - then she needed to prevent that fruition to come.
Morathi stared back at Feliceth as she waited expectantly of her mistress; eyeing worriedly of her fickle temper.
"You have done well, child. You are free for now."
The girl was surprised but relieved to hear.
"M-Most generous of you, Your Ladyship!"
"Yes, yes! Shoo! Before I change my mind!" Morathi hissed. The mirror changed back to its reflective; the sorceress back to her thoughts.
"Now to warn Malekith of this news... or perhaps swoop in at the last minute. Eh, my son has enough worries for today."
Just then, a loud crash came in. Marauders had now breached her fortress and a trio of them had just crashed into her privacy.
"You will die, witch!" The leader screamed in his ugly tongue. "BLOOD FOR THE-"
Morathi telepathically sent her Darksword into the exposed throat of the screaming barbarian. He died choking on his own blood and Morathi's steel; falling into the pool without fanfare. The other two were taken by surprise but quickly rushed in on both sides; knowing Morathi had lost her precious weapon in combat. The second closest charged in before Morathi summoned a portal in front of him where he fell from a great height; screaming as he plummeted to his death outside of her fortress. The third was in reach of her but magically froze as she reacted quickly on her heels. The man was in mid-swing but was now helpless. She summoned her blade again to her hand and slowly slit his throat. He would remain there until the magic would fade, where he will bleed to death by the time it ended. That is if he died hitting the floor.
Morathi sighed in annoyance. She quickly summoned her armor and then Heartrender as she prepared to make her stand.
"Idiots." She huffed. "Can't even do so much as defend my own home."
Morathi took one last look at her crystal ball. Scrying yet again, she located the ship that was now heading to Naggaroth.
"A week, she said? Hmm...why don't we speed that ship up a bit, eh?" She said. With a slight gesture, the wind that blew the ship was now picking up speed; guiding the crew to their destination. Morathi smiled at her small accomplishment.
"There we go... now to wait as I spill barbarian blood in my home."
Walls of Naggarond
"KEEP FIRING!" Kouran barked. "SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF KHAINE! DO NOT REST WHILE THE ENEMIES STILL STAND! WE ARE DRUCHII! WE DO NOT KNOW DEFEAT! ONLY VICTORY AND DEATH! DRUCHII!"
"DRUCHII!" They roared. The darkshards and reaper bolter throwers continued firing at the enemy down below. The numbers continue in their attempt to break through the walls even as they fell beneath a storm of bolts. The monsters, on the other hand, were a bigger issue. The harpies and manticores did well harassing the gigantic beasts of Chaos, but few managed to get through and approached the bastion.
"BOLTERS! AIM AT THE MONSTERS!" Kouran ordered. The arbalests took aim at the beasts, but the sheer mass of the giants meant their thick skins would be able to be penetrated their barbed bolts. Chaos giants and dragon ogres used their mighty clubs and hammers to break the thick walls. Some dragons began attacking them and caused enough delays to give the druchii more time to cause significant damage to the titans. Kouran hoped the walls hold long enough that they could repel Chaos invasions once again. But the biggest worry he had was his lord. He had last seen him chase off what was presumably the leader of this force somewhere in the city. Kouran had sent several Black Guards to aid his lord and prayed that they make it in time. While he doubted that Malekith will be in serious trouble considering his fortitude against impossible odds, crucial moments like this would be are too risky to be unconcerned for His Highness.
As Kouran was lost in thought, the giant shadow of something large was coming dangerously close above him. A Black Guard threw him to the ground; saving them both a grisly fate as a Chimera swooped down and wreaked havoc on the wall. One of the beast's heads spewed fire into a group of druchii and slaves misfortunate enough to be in its vicinity before flying off with a darkshard clamped down in one of its mouths.
Both Kouran and the Black Guard stood up, but this was interrupted as blasts of burning iron balls crashed onto the walls. The Black Guard that saved him was caught in the blast; writhing in flames before falling to his death down below the wall. Kouran had no time to mourn - for such was a weakness - but he did wish to give thanks before his demise.
Another hit to the walls and Kouran stayed to the floor until the barrage of hellfire stopped. Moments later, he stood back up and looked over the walls. Hellfire Cannons manned by Chaos Dwarfs began assaulting after. Barrages of them spread throughout, causing considerable damage and taking a heavy toll on the crossbowmen. Druchii scrambled for cover; some falling off the walls as the blasts reached the top in flames. Some had even abandoned the reapers, but Kouran stood up and directed orders.
"EVERYONE! BACK ON THE REAPERS! CONCENTRATE ALL FIRE ON THE CANNONS! THAT'S AN ORDER!" He ordered. Bolt Throwers made haste but took aim as commanded. Several struck true as the Chaos Dwarfs were skewered and impaled; some even destroying the Hellcannons as well. However, such a victory was short-lived as the monsters were now closing in. A dragon ogre slammed the walls with its mighty hammer; trembling the ground beneath the druchii's feet. A chaos giant uses the carcass of a dragon and threw it over the walls before heading towards the gates. Kouran barked orders to aim back at the beasts but with fewer reapers manned, the damage they dealt was less impactful.
"Captain!" A black guard alerted Kouran. "The shades returned! It's the Witch-King! He's duelling with the warband leader! The Black Guard tried to support him, but she wiped them out!"
Kouran stared in horror but was moving with instinct.
"Dammit! Damn he to Khaine's sword!" He snarled. He looked to the remaining soldiers. "All of you concentrate on the enemies! If any of you abandon your positions, I will make sure that you get thrown off the walls before you face our Lord's Wrath! That is my promise!"
"YES, CAPTAIN!" They yelled in both fear and obedience.
"NOW GET BACK TO IT!" He yelled. Soldiers returned to their positions. Kouran spoke to the man for the final time.
"You will stay here and make sure all of them do as they are told! Any of them break my word, throw them off! That includes you! This is not an excuse for a promotion!"
"At will, sir!" The man obeyed. Kouran moved him aside and made his way down the walls; barking a couple of his black guards to follow him and riding off with black steeds.
"Dammit, I just hope I'll make it there in time..."
On the streets of Naggarond...
Malekith gritted his teeth as he parried another blow from the Gorequeen's spear. Valkia raised her shield in turn as Malekith swung back his sword aimed at her neck. The battle continued for almost an hour as they traded blows. Both had not tired in the slightest; all too caught up in their murder prowess. Only briefly did the duel stop when the Black Guard to help their king, only to be cut down by the Bride of Khorne herself. This did not even hinder Valkia at all. It more or less annoyed her to no end before returning to facing the Witch-King again.
"UGH! JUST DIE ALREADY!" She yelled.
"And grant you the victory you so desire?! Your god must be hard to please!" He taunted.
"SHUT UP!" Valkia launched a flurry of attacks; forcing Malekith on the fence. Malekith studied her movement and fighting style in order to counter and predict her incoming attacks. She was like most worshippers of the Blood God: reckless, rabid, and without finesse. Yet, she made it up with ferocity and strength that could put witch elves to shame. Malekith, however, fought scores of her people. Each and every one of them was the same; she just stood out by a few inches above them.
Malekith thought of his next options. The first - and possibly ridiculous - option would be to tire her out until she was exhausted. Such a tactic would be a time-waster and a death sentence as Khornate berserkers were notorious for pushing beyond the limit if it means striking down their enemies. Any further delay would cost him his life no matter how fully-suited he was in his armor.
The second would be to lower his guard and follow it up with a riposte. Though formidable as his opponent was, she was too focused on gaining the upper hand on him rather than consider countering whatever exploits that left her exposed. Which left plenty of openings for Malekith as he calculated the next possible outcome to take advantage of.
Both options, however, were proven fruitless as Valkia leapt above and prepared to land a strike at his face. Giving him a third opening.
He raised his shield just in time as she crashed into it; her spear's tip bouncing off one of Malekith's horns. With momentum, Malekith threw her in tandem with Spellshield. Valkia crashed to the ground on her back; losing Slaupnir and Locephax from her grips. Malekith wasted no time and closed in on her with sword raised above her.
Suddenly, a loud inhuman shriek pierced the air and crashed into the earth. Malekith was thrown off by the quake but was steadfast against the trembling. Malekith looked up and saw a three-headed monstrosity shielding the daemon prince. It bellowed a terrifying roar; its draconic head spewing fire into the air. The distraction was enough for Valkia to recover her weapons. The Gorequeen smiled to receive intervention from her god.
The chimera eyed the Witch-King hungrily. Malekith fell into combat stance and braced for an attack until Seraphon swooped down and attacked the beast. The chimera's draconic head was being attacked; shaking and gnashing as it tried to shake the black dragon off its back. Malekith was slightly relieved to see Seraphon come to the rescue. However, with four mouths against one, Malekith could only feel worried for her. Of course, such a thing could easily be solved with a flick of a hand gesture.
With one hand raised, Malekith used his magic summoned a beast worthy to aid Seraphon. Behind him, a building erupted and rising from the debris was a colossal war hydra. The serpent crawled forth in subservience to its master. The Witch-King aimed his sword towards the chimera. The hydra obeyed; dragging itself to clash with the four-headed beast. The chimera now looked upon the massive monster approaching and roared in defiance. The hydra sprayed fire on its opponent, causing the Chimera to back away in pain. The chimera launched itself into the serpent, causing it to stagger. It fought with tooth and claw; gnashing at the larger beast in fury. The hydra grabbed ahold of it with a couple of its own heads while Seraphon leapt forward and crashed into the chimera; knocking both monsters onto the ground. Malekith smiled behind his mask and turned to face Valkia.
The Gorequeen closed in on him, but Malekith braced himself and was ready when a sudden intervention had come.
Out of nowhere, black lightning struck Valkia and threw her against a building; crashing into a wall and crushed by the rubble. Malekith searched for the origin of the attack, only to find the most unlikely of saviors.
"Your Highness." Greeted a most familiar sorceress. "I witnessed you in combat with this wretch. I could not help but... aid you... for your safety. I offer my service."
Malekith scoffed. "It was not needed... Felicion... but you have my gratitude. No more than that."
"I am forever indebted to you as always, my King." Felicion responded. Her grin greeted his eyes but devoid of any warmth behind it. Soon, the sound of thundering hooves drew near. Kouran finally arrived with a contingent of the Black Guard behind him.
"Lord Malekith!" Called out Kouran. "I am here to aid you! The messengers have told me of your battle! I came here as soon as I could! And with the Black Guard in tow!"
"And what of the wall?"
"It's being defended but the men are being overwhelmed. Your presence would greatly aid the tide of battle if I may speak boldly!" Kouran responded.
"That is concerning." Malekith agreed. "But that will be settled for a later time. Mine is currently rising as we speak."
All three turned their heads toward the downed Valkia, who was now rising from the rubble; angrier than before. Malekith fell into combat stance again, now with support on his side this time. Felicion glowing with magic on his left, Kouran clutching his halberd in his hands, and the Black Guard flanking in front to protect their king. The Gorequeen staggered and fumbled, but no worse for wear. A loud screech deafened the air and landing near the two opposing sides was one of the chimera's heads. Seraphon landed behind her master and roared into the sky. The hydra, meanwhile, snapped the chimera's remaining head by the neck, before casting the body aside and crawling towards the Druchii.
Valkia could only glare and growl at the enemies now surrounded her. Twice, the kingslayer summoned his men to do his work. Twice, he was now among his own people. Coward. Malekith made his way to the front.
"You are surrounded, khornate." Malekith announced. "This duel is over. I have won."
"Wretched elf!" Valkia snarled. "You think yourself the victor but you are merely playing underhanded! I will tear you and your soldiers and serve your skulls to Khorne for this transgression!"
"I will not. But yours will do." Magic sparked in the Witch-King's hand, followed by the sorceress. Both unleashed the might of their power, but Valkia managed to avoid it as she soared to the skies.
"This is not over, betrayer! I will have your head!" Valkia roared before flying back to her army. Seraphon was about to take flight until Malekith bayed her to stay. The dragon whinnied as he stroke her nostril.
"Everyone back on the walls." Malekith ordered. "Felicion, summon a portal and get the men and hydra to their stations. I will be there shortly."
"As you will it, Your Highness." Felicion conjured up a portal and the Black Guard soon walked and travelled back to the bastion. Another large portal opened and the hydra crawled in. Both the sorceress and Kouran soon followed; leaving Malekith to himself and his dragon. Malekith sighed in discontent. Seraphon sensed his displeasure and cozied up to him. The Witch-King simply scratched her cheek with affection but his mind was clouded with troubled thoughts.
If his Witch-sight was correct, the armies of Chaos were besieging not just Naggarond, but to the rest of the citadels. Valkia's army had splintered into three groups; each of them big enough to invade two for each of Naggaroth's holds. Even with all the magic and monsters on his side, Valkia's had numbers and daemons. The latter of which he had yet seen.
If Naggaroth were to fall, then all of his goals will be gone with the wind. Ulthuan would be taken by Chaos, not him. Ulthuan was his to take. It was his destiny. He will live to see it rightfully claimed by the True Son of Aenarion. Not Chaos. Not the Asur Princes. Only Malekith. The one and only.
"It is not too late, my son... there is still time left for you."
Malekith turned his head to the voice behind him, only to find his father standing there; a face of sorrow greeting his son.
"Why are you still here, father?" Malekith questioned. "Why come to me on the eve of battle? Had I not made my intentions clear?"
"I never wish to turn against you. Only that you become better."
"I am better!" Malekith retorted. "I am supreme! I am the Witch-King! Chosen of Khaine!"
"That is not what I meant..." Aenarion voiced his disapproval. "This is not who you are. Not who I wanted you to be."
"And what was it you wanted me to be instead? An inferior? A weak successor? I did everything you taught me to become. A strong and proud Asur! It is not my fault Ulthuan rejected me for slaying that weakling they called a 'king'. I was fit to become their ruler. Not Bel Shanaar. Nor any other Prince."
"And yet, Asuryan did not find you worthy." Aenarion countered. "Ulthuan rightfully feared what you would become if you had taken the throne. Just as they had feared... me."
Malekith steeled himself from the melancholy his father's ghost permeated.
"It doesn't matter. I am your son. And once I get rid of these slaves of Chaos, I will sail down to Ulthuan and bring down the gates. And only then, will I take my place as Phoenix King."
"I have spoken this already! You will not go against our people!" His father admonished, though, faintly pleaded. "Ulthuan does not need to be ruled with fear! No more fighting against our kinsmen! Cast down the darkness within your heart... and only then are you worthy of Asuryan!"
"I am worthy." Malekith spoke with conviction. "I have done many a great deed even before I pledged my goals to seeking Asuryan's favor. It will be enough."
"And yet, those deeds you've forged are now in ruins. The Dwarfs of the World's Edge Mountains hate us for your deceit and have made you 'oathbreaker'. And on that same continent, the Asrai of Athel Loren have broke all ties with us and want nothing to do with our people."
Aenarion sighed dejectedly. "If Snorri and Allisara were here-"
"You don't get to say their names!" Malekith snapped. "They have nothing to do with what I was accomplishing! They would never..."
A flash of memory struck him hard. Brief flashes of people he once remembered by. First, came the hardy and bellowing laughter of his dwarfen friend as they swung and slash together against the Daemons of Chaos rang his ears as if a recent memory. The white of his beard and hair still clean even as blood was drawn upon from unholy bodies.
Then, came the lithe body of his late wife appearing in his mind. Her golden hair and pale skin basking in the light of Lileath. The warm smile she wore whenever they reunited. When they were just to themselves; free of any duties and content being in each other's arms. The touch of her flesh and the taste of her lips was all too fresh and painful for him to be reminded of.
The lost of both his wife and best friend had been rekindled. And it hurt Malekith to think of them.
He missed them dearly. And he was now alone.
"...N-Never mention them again." Malekith wearily warned. Aenarion nodded; pained to see his son's wounds reopened because of his words.
"Malekith, my son..." Aenarion gently started. "There is still time to change. Let go of the path of the Destroyer... and take the mantle of the Defender."
Malekith remained silent before brushing away and turning back to Seraphon, who watched her master curiously as he talked to empty space. Malekith climbed up to his seat and held onto the reins. The dragon obeyed his whims and flew off. The dragon and its rider disappeared above the clouds as they head to the walls... where blood and battle raged on.
"Will he follow the path Destiny has forged for him? Or will he DOOM himself to repeat the sins of the father?"
Aenarion glanced back at the apparition that now accompanied him. He was like the Defender in many ways save for appearances. He stood taller than the Defender himself, broad in shoulder and chest laid bare. His face aged yet stern and resolute in the face of DOOM. A king of a people long forgotten of their proud heritage; a fate that could perhaps one day befall Elves, Dwarfs and the race of Man, and perhaps the Lizardmen even.
Aenarion nodded in respect but felt dejected at Malekith's continued refusal of his true calling.
*sigh* "Time will tell... King Novik. But I have enough faith that he will listen. But that is his decision... and I must respect the choice he will make after."
"Do not give in to despair just yet, Defender." Novik comforted as he laid on the Asur's shoulder. "He is strong-willed... but even I can sense the fire roaring inside him. He still has the nobility beating in the heart... and the strength to overcome the pain."
"I know..." Aenarion agreed. "I hope to see him change for the better."
Novik nodded in agreement. "That is his decision... as you have said earlier."
The Defender laughed grimly but brushed it off. "We can speak less about myself. Is the harbinger making his way to his destination?"
"Indeed." Novik answered. "Your wife has made his journey relatively faster than expected. I can only fathom the reasons behind such hastened travel."
"Aye. Morathi has not changed one bit since I departed from this world." Aenarion lamented, fully aware of his second wife's...eccentric...lifestyle. "Still, it is fortunate she has tipped the scales in our favour."
"Mayhaps you should visit her before your departure? To rekindle old flames, I mean."
Aenarion stayed silent on the matter; conflicted in his expressions.
"...Nay. She has enough on her mind right now. I cannot bother her with more complications."
Novik stared at him blankly but shrugged. "If that is what you have decided on, I won't press further. Regardless, the world of Mallus is changing. The Time of Ending is coming. Titans will rise from the ashes of battle and Steel will soon taste flesh and drown its thirst in blood. Chaos grows stronger as their dimension becomes ever closer to this realm. And with it, Hell shall follow its scent. And bring down retribution and hellfire upon its traitorous spawn... and retake its place as the Master of the Endless Seas. Yet, that fate shall never be written... for the Slayer Cometh... and he will bring with him the rage of a countless Fallen and drive his Sword of Vengeance into the heart of darkness. And HE will crush our enemies. And cast down on those who lead us astray."
"Rip and Tear... Until it is done."
"Rip and Tear... Until it is done."
Both warriors - proud and noble, even in death - recited the creed in unison, before scattering to the winds, and watch as the world awaited change. And what Fate had in store.
The Faded Silence
Doom Slayer snapped out of his train of thought. A flicker of something inside his mind made jolt a bit.
"Something the matter, Slayer?" Alith asked; overlooking the map to their next coordinates. Doom Slayer took a piece of paper and grabbed an ink-tipped quill.
"I'm fine." He wrote.
"Just making sure." Alith replied. "Anyways, the winds have gotten strong. And if we manage to get there without hindrance, we'll be due to arrive a day sooner than previously estimated. Think you can handle the wait?"
"Not really, no." Doom Slayer wrote back. "Need to kill. I'm rarely in one place."
A soft chuckle resonated from Hayden.
"You'll have to learn a bit of patience." Hayden said. "There's not much we can do but wait."
"And that is precisely how most of my operations work, I'm afraid." Alith added. "My men, will stay vigilant. We'll never know if we come face to face with a Kharybdiss."
"Sounds like a fun time to me." Doom Slayer wrote; a smirk etching from beneath his visor. Alith took notice.
"I can back that up." Hayden added.
"Then be my guest." Alith dryly humored. Much of the trip after was quiet but quick as the winds blew them to the Land of Chill.
A land where a tyrant on his throne awaits...
The Silver Pinnacle
The next day...
The trip was long and tiresome for Asya. After draining much of the information out of her informant - and quite a bit of blood from her as well -, the Lahmian spy took to the skies in mist form and travelled half the world back to her mistress' lair without rest. It extracted quite a bit of energy from her magic but after a day, she had finally arrived on the steps of the Silver Pinnacle's front doors. The Sylvanian fixed up her brunette hair before approaching.
Sisters from other lands yet united by the same bloodline welcomed her.
"Greetings, sisters." Asya started courtly.
"Greetings, Asya." A Kislevite welcomed. "How goes Ulthuan?"
"Quite thrilling, lately. I am here to speak with our queen."
"Surely, you wouldn't mind sharing it among us?" An Imperial urged. "Klara has been telling us about the latest fashions in Altdorf by the Empress. So much that the Countess of Nuln has been seething and pushing tailors and dressmakers to rival Altdorf's."
"Perhaps right after, ladies." Asya insisted. Damn vultures, she thought. The price of information she had was of high value, and she wasn't going to give it so freely. "I'll tell you all about it."
The women looked disappointed but didn't seem to be too fussy about it. They gave her passage and the doors opened to her presence. She turned to mist again and made her way through the ever complex labyrinths that made up the Dwarfen fortress.
Carefully making her way inside; memorizing the routes and paths that reached the inner circle, she finally arrived upon the mistress' chambers.
Black guards watched the entrance and block those who come near the Queen of Lahmia. But as Asya slowly approached, the two guards stared right back at her. The vampire shuddered by their stares and stopped in her tracks.
"She is expecting you." One guard stated. "Enter."
Rarely did the sisters grace the chambers of the Lahmian Queen herself. And Asya got to have such a rare opportunity. It almost made her anxious of the Queen's attention.
Inside, priceless relics and gemstones glittered around the room, beautifully in the dark. Gemstones, golden masks, and silver skulls displayed around to symbolise her mistress's power and nostalgia for the past.
Surrounding the room, the finest breeds of cats wandered about but eyed Asya warily.
She finally reached the seven silks and they were laid before her. And behind it, laid the throne of Queen Neferata.
Asya slowed her pace; carefully as to not interrupt what ever business the queen was conducting.
"Come closer, my dear." A voice whispered in her ear. "You have my attention."
By the voice's command, Asya walked further and stood before the silken covers.
"Kneel." It ordered, and Asya did so. She knelt and waited expectantly for the Queen's attention. A wind blew in the room, and brushed the silks aside. Looking instead of a figure, Asya found the throne to be empty. Asya was about to stand up until the voice returned.
"I said... kneel." It spoke behind her. Asya realized who the voice belonged to, and made no hesitation to go back to her knelt state. The clinking steps echoed the room and the Lahmian could now see the heels of someone now in front of her. A hand appeared and gently cupped her chin; craning Asya's head upwards and meet the cold blue gaze of the one she served under.
Neferata, Queen of Lahmia and the First of the Vampires. A small grin formed; born out of coldness and hungered intrigue.
"Now what do you wish to tell me, my child?"
So there you have it, folks! Didn't expect another king and queen to appear now, did ya? ;)
So as I have mentioned before, there'll be no more QAs on the chapters as of this update. You can all check it on my profile page and expand the bio to see all the answers.
And be sure to enter your votes until Monday!
Anyways, onto the next chapter! Currently at 1,515 words as of this prompt. I apologize to all who were expecting a much longer chapter. Not only has school work gotten in the way of my writing but I've also been planning on writing content exclusive only to AO3. You won't see it anytime soon, though, as it's tied to the story and takes place further in the story.
I'm not gonna pretend that there's a big-ass elephant in the room and give you any subtle hint.
It involves a ship and it's right there in your f*cking face (pardon my french) through the whole damn story. Luckily, it's seperate and you can enjoy reading with or without it.
That said, ain't gonna happen until I'm confident enough to post it.
Still, I think this is a good start for the arc. Anyways, I will return in a week to give an update on my thoughts TAG2! So be sure to check on Monday sometime in the afternoon!
And bring another chapter in when I'm ready!
Peace out, y'all!
03/15/2021 edit: Aww, it's just a teaser. :(
Worth the wait, though. Glad I didn't see the leak early. :/
See y'all on Wednesday! :)
03/17/2021 edit: It is WEDNESDAY, my dudes!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
watch?v=d-RbOVJNtBs
watch?v=kwAg53yq9uE
Yes! Yes! YES! IT IS FINALLY HERE! IT'S EVERYTHING THAT I IMAGINED! DOOM SLAYER VS DARK LORD! NIGHT SENTINELS! SPACESHIPS DRAGONS! DOOMBUSTER ARMOR! ENDGAME! AND ATLANS. PUNCHING. FUCKING. TITANS! FUCK YEAH! WHOOOOOOO! AND IT'S RELEASING TOMORROW!
RIP AND TEAR! RIP AND TEAR! RIP AND TEAR! RIP AND TEAR! RIP AND TEAR! RIP AND TEAR!
Update (14/08/2022): It's me again. Still alive and not burdened by Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Decided to polish this chapter a bit by fixing grammar mistakes as pointed out by a recent - if harsh - reviewer from the comments. Hopefully, it flows much better. As for myself, I'm feeling well and still undergoing chemotherapy. Went through two out of six cycles (roughly three weeks per cycle), and will undergo my third this Wednesday. Aside from that, staying well and healthy, also celebrating my new TV Tropes page that I was alerted recently! Really happy to hear and it motivated me to write another chapter. Can't say when I'll release it but I'm feeling motivated now were it not for me being distracted with Turok 1 & 2 remasters. Still happy about this little reward!
