So here we are with chapter 3! Hope you all like this one, since I think this was the best amongst the ones currently released.
As always leave my shout out to Boyo99 and BillyFish1409! Since both of these authors are responsible for helping me out by posting this story, so check them out!
Now enjoy the show, may you guys hop in and have fun on this crazy ride.
Shadows of the Dark City 3
A sea of bodies surrounded her, all around Thalindra were the bodies of those who died following her orders. Their lifeless eyes open staring at the maroon sky, their mouths open as if begging their dead gods for salvation and mercy.
"Why do I fight?" Whimpered the Farseer kneeling amidst the carnage around her. Despair is taking hold of her heart. the feeling of impotence overwhelming any of her self-restraint.
"I should never left Ulthwe, I'm a failure." The Farseer looked once again towards the myriad of corpses to see many familiar faces amongst them. One of those was Taliar the Ranger.
"You were right, I was not fit to be your Farseer! I threw our lives away for the Mon-keigh. Now you and..." She choked as tears started flowing from her eyes, the face of Kaelith coming to the forefront of her mind.
For the first time since she started on this path, Thalindra cried and wailed the names of those who were lost. Her soul was filled with guilt and despair at her own perceived failure.
Tears didn't stop flowing for what appeared to be a long time as she held her knees staring at the dead. Her mind was tired her eyes heavy, she struggled to give space for rest feeling undeserving of turning away from the consequences of her actions, but soon the Seer couldn't fight it anymore and gave away to her exhaustion.
The Eldar was not aware how much time had passed since her mind faded but when she opened her eyes the sight that greeted her eyes, was surprisingly beautiful.
"The Gardens of Ulthwe..." She muttered awestruck as she drank in the incredible scenery.
Tall, slender trees with shimmering, silver leaves create a canopy overhead, their branches intertwining to form natural arches and pathways. These trees are reminiscent of ancient mythological tales, their bark etched with delicate, glowing runes that hum with a soft, ethereal light. Beneath them, the ground is carpeted with lush, velvety moss in shades of emerald and jade, providing a plush underfoot for wandering Eldar.
Vibrant flowers bloom in intricate patterns, their colors ranging from deep, midnight blues to vivid, sunset oranges. Each blossom exudes a unique, intoxicating fragrance that mingles in the air, creating an ever-changing symphony of scents. The petals of some flowers are semi-translucent, catching and refracting the light in mesmerizing patterns, while others are bioluminescent, glowing gently in the twilight hours.
The garden is interspersed with serene water features—crystal-clear streams winding through the landscape, feeding into tranquil ponds where exotic fish swim lazily beneath the surface. The water is so pure that it seems almost unreal, reflecting the sky and the surrounding foliage with perfect clarity.
Scattered throughout the garden are intricately carved stone benches and delicate gazebos, providing peaceful spots for contemplation and meditation. These structures are adorned with living vines and flowering plants, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surroundings.
In the center of the garden stands a magnificent, ancient tree known as the Coille Cridhe. Its gnarled trunk is massive, and its branches stretch out like protective arms over the garden. The Coille Cridhe is a symbol of the resilience and longevity of the Eldar race, its deep roots believed to be connected to the very core of Ulthwe itself. The tree's leaves are a striking, iridescent green, and it is said to sing with the voices of the ancestors, a soft, melodic whisper that can be heard by those who listen closely.
Overall, the garden on Ulthwe is a harmonious blend of natural beauty and Eldar artistry, a serene haven that offers respite and inspiration to all who enter, especially Thalindra, this being her favorite place in all the Craftworld.
"Beautiful isn't it?" a familiar voice spoke behind her.
"Kaelith!?" The Farseer muttered shocked once her eyes lay on her closest friend. However, instead of wearing her usual aspect wraith bone armor, the Banshee was wearing a casual well tailored purple dress that flowed with the wind.
"No, the real Kaelith perished in the arena, her soul now resting on the soul stone waiting to be reunited with the infinity circuit..." the Entity wearing her best friend's face answered truthfully, a sorrowful smile adorning her perfect features.
"So who are you exactly then?" Asked the puzzled Thalindra.
"I never lived or died, made of untainted essence. Tasked to protect what you value the most." The Entitiy quickly answered.
"Are you a warp entity?"
"Correct." The Being with no hesitation answered.
"Hm." Was all the Seer could mutter, she had heard previously of such beings, but this one seemed different from what she had learned.
"Where are we?"
"Inside." The single word it chose to her question filled her with even more questions. Frustrated she tried to be more direct in order to fully grasp what was happening.
"Inside where?"
"Isn't it obvious?" It smugly replied back, as if trying to ruffle her feathers.
"No," Thalindra answered curtly, her patience starting to run thin at the nonchalant posture of the spirit.
"Inside your soul." The being appeared beside her in a blink of an eye.
Taking a look around the lush green garden around them the Seer knows that the Warp Spawn is right. Even though she still lacks the means to truly grasp what is currently happening.
"What are we doing here spirit?"
"Maintaining you whole." In a blink, the entity wearing Kaelith's face disappeared, but still, her words sounded all around etherally.
"Your last fight was the last drop of water the dam needed to rupture."
In front of the Farseer appeared small runes made from smog each one carrying her path, past, present, and future...
"The path of a Seer is a burdened one, your main task is to see the outcomes of different decisions of varying parties and then take an informed decision that will be in the better interest of your people. It is not an easy job, and even though many have the mind to become a Farseer, few have the mental fortitude to endure what comes with it."
The spirit appeared amidst the smog caused by the runes in front of her, Kaelith's face adorning a small gentle smile.
"Are you implying that I'm not fit to follow my path Spirit?" Thalindra tried to maintain her composure, but the entity's words rang true with her last endeavors.
"No by the contrary..."
Kaelith's-double answered gently while shaking her head in a negative manner.
"You are just in the right place and the right time. Your presence here is fundamental to shaping the course of a very dark path, one that all other seers failed to see. No other would be fit to accomplish the task at hand."
The rune of past death shone the smoke becoming smaller until it was at the size of her iris, the Eldar symbol then entered her pupil to show her a vision of her past campaigns.
"Thalindra almost met her death countless times but through your will and determination managed to keep going."
It showed many battles of her last seven centuries on the frontlines, so many close calls with death. So many moments where her soul could be claimed by She-Who-Thirsts.
"When it was needed you did what had to be done. All those humans you killed in Lanevar, their screams still haunt the deep recess of your heart, at that time you even thought of stopping, but alas you did what needed to be done."
Then it showed a fateful moment in her history, the great cleansing of Lanevar. A small backwater planet in Imperium space which was being riddled by chaos cultists who were on the brink of claiming the planet. This would cause a chain of events where a noble known as Augustus Marabai would be converted to the arch nemesis side. He would use his influence and power to compromise another whole sector just next to it. Trillions of lives would be under Chaos influence until it reached the planet of Aquinna, home of the exodites of Galaitoc. They would not stand a chance against the hordes coming from this sector and all would be killed.
So Thalindra was deployed to deal with the situation and see that the planet and its entire population would be dealt with accordingly. Many on the Craftworld would call this event the cleansing of Lanevar, but the Farseer knew the truth of what happened there, genocide.
The worst part was the fact that all those people she ordered to be killed did not have a remote idea of the real reason they were doing that. Each pained scream, call for mercy, or the simple question of why they were doing all of that broke her heart. It was there the first cracks in her walled emotions started appearing, this event alone set in motion the conditions necessary for her most recent failure.
"It was not a failure." The Spirit answered as if the being could understand her thoughts also snapping Thalindra out of the vision.
"In Lanevar you did what few could. You carry the burden of accomplishing your duty, and through that act you saved trillions from a similar fate, not only that...You saved the people of Galaitoc."
Kaelith's doppelganger put a hand on her shoulder as she continued her explanation.
"Many of your kin would rejoice in such bloodshed believing to be killing savage animals for the betterment of the Eldar kind. Others would simply ignore it and blame it on the lack of visions or visible paths, refusing to sully their hands with so much blood. But you?"
"You did what had to be done, while still having in your mind the notion you were killing people. You were not proud of what you were doing, nor rejoicing, the only thing that could be seen on your face masked by your ever-present stoicism was a single tear. One who carried the weight of all those lives..."
The being stopped at her front staring right at her soul the aura around it brought warmth and relief to her troubled mind.
"You are the one fate has called more than one time, and each time it did you answered without failing. This was the reason you lost yourself to the path of Seer is it not?"
Thalindra nodded at its words, and silently waited for this Spirit to finish.
"However you are not bound by it as many tend to believe. You proved that more than one time, those people you saved? They were supposed to be dead and forgotten and you know that."
It started walking around the Coille Cridhe, looking at its branches and leaves, Thalindra never leaving the being out of her sight.
"You defied your path young one. The events that will unfold thanks to you will serve to build bridges that were thought to be burned a long time ago. Your story will join others as an example of what your kind should be, of what a Farseer perceived as a failure by many, managed to conquer."
"What do you mean by perceived as failure?"
"Most people will not understand the things you did and will do. Many will think of you as a fool who doesn't value its own people, but they are wrong."
Each word that leaves this weird warp creature's mouth resonates within her, she could easily raise her hands and dispel it, but something in those spirit's words rang true with her. Thalindra knew deep down that whatever this thing was it spoke the truth.
"Many millennia you served Ulthwe right, you brought pride to your kinsman and many victories. In the path of the seer, you shone brightly as a star guiding your brothers and sisters to a better future giving them hope. But now is the time to serve in a different way than a general."
"And what do you mean by that spirit? My path is absolute and my destiny is to either die in service or be united in the infinity circuit with my fellow seers."
"It was your destiny Thalindra. Your path got diverged the moment you decided to crumble those walls." The doppelganger hangs from a branch playfully moving around as if a child playing.
"What walls?" She asked hesitantly, fearing the answer the entity may give.
"Those ones", it proceeds to point toward a small pristine lake in the middle of the garden. The Farsser approaches with care at the still waters, the sight that meets her is her own beautiful reflection on the water.
Her eyes are the first thing to greet her. Thalindra's eyes are a striking shade of aquamarine, deep and enigmatic, seeming to glow with an inner light. They are the eyes of a seer, reflecting the vast knowledge and visions she has witnessed, the many battles she had witnessed.
Thalindra's face is finely chiseled, with high cheekbones and a smooth, unblemished complexion that has a slight, ethereal sheen. Her features are delicate yet strong, exuding a timeless beauty. Her lips are fully painted in a dark shade that fits well with the rest of her attire.
Her eyebrows are arched and expressive, adding to the intensity of her gaze. Despite the calm and composed exterior, there's an underlying intensity in her expression, a testament to the immense power and responsibility she wields as a Farseer as well as the innumerable battles she has fought in.
Her hair is a vibrant cascade of red, flowing down to her waist in smooth, silky waves. It contrasts sharply with her dark armor and robe, adding to her ethereal and otherworldly appearance.
She turned again staring at the spirit.
"Your meaning evades me."
It playfully rolled its eyes before appearing at her side.
"Has been in thousands of battles, saw innumerable futures and paths but can't make meaning of my words?"
Now the spirit was getting on her nerves.
"Speak! Do not waste my time on frivolous charades."
Thalindra said, energy pulsing from her eyes, this would usually quickly intimidate anyone in normal circumstances, but for this Warp Creature, it made it laugh.
"Well, you are being very impatient for a Seer. Did Eldrad not teach you to be patient, to understand the flow of the currents of time?"
The doppelganger changed its appearance for that of her mentor and with a gentle yet serious expression concluded.
"There is a time for everything, to live and to die. To win and lose, to be happy and to mourn, a time for peace and a time for war. And at last..."
It floated above the ground, hovering above the lake.
"Time to hate and a time to love. That time has come for you, far before you set foot into the Dark City."
The Eldrad doppelganger then materialized the runes of smoke once again this time the runes of past and future were both gone only the one representing the present remaining.
"The moment you decided to be Thalindra again, you changed the course of what will happen. Let the emotions you thought you buried once you started following your path bloom, they will guide you to your destiny."
The Eldrad faker then blew the rune made of smoke into her face, everything started to come back to her. Remembering all the events that transpired before falling unconscious.
"Time to wake up Mistress. Your new path awaits!"
With those words, she was pulled out of her own self towards the light of conscience...
Marcus had his back towards the cold wall of the cell, sitting on the hard ground of their new "chambers" as the guards mockingly remarked before throwing them all here.
This jail cell was small, just big enough to fit them all, but not to allow them a respectable space. The crowded space was uncomfortable since all parties inside were weary of each other's presence.
Around them were other cells however most of them were empty, and those who weren't were with a myriad of different beings that are completely alien to the Guardsman.
The Captain was suspiciously staring at his other unconventional jail mates. His gaze first settled on the blue-skinned Xeno at their right who was currently wearing his battered red armor in a lotus position on the ground holding a strange necklace of black beads. The alien did not show any reaction towards their presence, choosing to hang his head low his mouth opening and closing as if mumbling something that evades the Imperial keen hearing.
Marcus tried to observe each and every detail of this being, in order to better understand who he was dealing with, his skin was a smooth, muted blue-grey, common among its species according to Doc, with a slight metallic sheen that gave him a somewhat alien and otherworldly appearance.
His bald head is adorned with a series of faint, ritualistic markings that probably signify his rank and accomplishments similar to regimental tattoos done by some guardsmen.
This Tau has a lean yet muscular build, characteristic of a seasoned Fire Warrior. His physique is well-toned from rigorous training and countless battles, built for agility and precision rather than brute strength. But one of the most striking features of this Xenos was the "hole" in the middle of its face. While Marcus is no Xenologist he is almost certain that this is his nose since it slightly moves with which breath coming from the warrior.
At the overall demeanor of this Tau, he could safely assume he was paying his respects to his fallen comrades. Marcus would be lying if this did not tickle his empathy bone a little, due to the fact this Xeno was honoring the ones who have died beside him, very similarily to how the guard does for their fallen brothers.
Deciding to observe the other occupants of the cell his gaze settles on both tall and lean Xenos. The female which he presumed to be their leader was unconscious on the ground her chest slowly rising and lowering with each breath, the moment the Captain had come back to his senses and was being dragged here she was out cold thrown without a care on the cold ground. Her comrade who stood standing between them and her was in his ever-present vigil staring through his weird helmet lenses, completely still daring any of them to pull something towards his friend.
Their weapons were taken sometime after they blacked out after the fight, the only thing now on them being their armor and clothes. So if a fight were to break out it would be a fistfight, one he knows will lose to this tall Xeno. So his main worry is to not piss off the Eldar as Doc explained amidst their fight, and until now he has been thankful for the Emperor making them all so tired that Ellias is too far occupied sleeping soundly beside him than actually saying something that could get them killed.
Here on these cells was hard to track time even more so after the fact you blacked out from a large portion of the walk. His mind was completely fogged by the recent events, sometimes Marcus needed to shake himself up in order to confirm he was not having a very livid nightmare since the situation until now was maddening at levels he thought impossible.
His hand drifted towards the book in his pocket, feeling the hardcover of his precious book. The Captain felt tempted to pull it out and read it to pass the time, but the tall warrior staring right at him was unsettling enough to dissuade him from doing so. With a sigh, the Imperial kept his hand on the leathery cover while looking at his feet in deep thought, his mind wandering on all the recent events that transpired.
The fight on Arina, their victory, and their subsequent capture, replayed on his mind as if it were a movie. Then it went into darker territory with the gouging of Janessa's eyes and the whole bloody spectacle in the arena, the bloodshed making adrenaline rush to his heart making it beat faster and his breath shake in a clear sign of anxiety. Every scar on his body started hurting, the familiar mental scaring as well, the hundreds of traumas stored inside his head bursting forth.
Marcus' hands started shaking his eyes widening at the realization that he was having an episode. He didn't quite know the name of this condition, but he had seen it far too many times in the faces of other soldiers to understand that he was suffering from it too.
The Captain tried to discretely hold his left hand to cease the visible shaking, but he didn't manage it so well. His loud breathing was gathering the attention of those who were still awake such as the Tau to his right and the Eldar on his left, both now staring right at him.
Not wanting to cause a scene and searching for a way to soothe his raging mind, Marcus started whispering a prayer, trying to focus his mind on the act itself rather than on his thoughts. His thoughts were still jumping all over the place, but slowly the prayer started to be the only thing present, pushing aside the greater symptoms of his condition.
The pain of his scars still pulsated with each heartbeat, as well as his thoughts still tried to drift toward his darker memories. However, after some minutes, the Veteran Officer managed to snap out of the episode but still maintained his gaze on his feet in order to not see the reactions of the Xenos around them.
Doc who was barely evading sleep noticed his behavior, the Specialist then put a comforting hand on his shoulder in a soothing manner.
"Are you feeling well Sir?"
Marcus nodded, choosing to remain in silence in order to not wake the others and to avoid social interaction which is something he is keen on evading for the moment.
"Okay, Captain. If you need anything you may wake me."
Then Darius turned on his side, deciding to rest once and for all, leaving the Captain all alone once again with his thoughts but not for long, as the complete lack of action and the rush of adrelanine finally going away managed to slowly lull him into sleep, finally allowing the Imperial his so-deserved rest.
Thalindra woke with a jolt, her lungs taking a loud deep breath as she sat in a quick fluid motion. Looking around at her surroundings the Farseer observed every single detail of their current location.
They were obviously in some kind of dungeon, its architecture was a nightmare made real, a blend of sleek, alien elegance and grotesque functionality. Dark, obsidian-like walls absorb light, creating an oppressive atmosphere. The corridors are narrow and winding, designed to confuse and disorient anyone who dares enter. Barbed chains and razor-sharp hooks hang from the ceiling, dripping with the blood of countless victims.
The cell they are in is small, cramped, and devoid of any comfort. They are made of the same dark, obsidian-like material as the rest of the dungeon, absorbing light and giving the space a perpetually shadowed appearance. The walls are smooth, cold, and slightly slick, adding to her overall discomfort.
At the very end to their left, there were other cells such as this, but they were holding different alien species from which Thalindra was not so familiar, but she knew they were suffering, afraid, and desperate.
Before this place, they were in the personal holding cells of the Kabal of the Obsidian Fang, but after the fight, they were moved to here, whatever this place may be.
Arandur took notice of her getting back from unconsciousness he quickly knelt beside her to assess her condition, signaling with his hands his worry.
'Thalindra are you hurt? Is everything alright' his hands moved in delicate arches.
'No, just a minor headache I'll be fine' She replied continuing their communication via movement.
'Thank Isha for your quick recovery, for a moment I thought you could be in a healing coma'
'Not yet Arandur, while the suppression field is a pain to deal with it is not enough to send me into a stupor' Thalindra gently smiled trying to reassure her friend.
Then she felt around her sash in hopes of finding the soul stones she collected, however, the empty space where they should been set a brick of ice down her stomach.
'Where are the soul's stones?' She asked signaling in quick movements, worry in her eyes.
Arandur emotions flared in worry and anger. 'Dont know, I blacked out after they announced our victory, whatever they used managed to even knock me out pretty well'
Thalindra sighed deeply, her frustration reaching its peak. The Druchii got their soul stones, this meant that they had the Farseer by her throat. They knew that holding them meant literally having control of the souls of all of those who perished. And she as their Seer must collect it and deliver them safely to the infinity circuit.
'I don't know why I'm surprised. We are under Dark Kin rule so nothing is sacred, even the Imperium has a better track record when it comes to the soul's stones than the Druchii' The Farseer commented signaling her frustration.
Then her gaze shifted towards the Mon-keigh, and one by one she stopped to take a closer look, not only at their appearance but their souls.
Janessa's soul was a warm yellow brave woman with a dark past, she went through many things but managed to come out at the top every time. Her dream is to become a captain such as Marcus and follow in his footsteps.
Ellias a Corporal with a temper, a capable fighter, and cynical by nature. Can be very difficult to deal with but he has managed to accomplish all his tasks so far, his soul is yellow with a slight orange hue. Good warrior to have on your side.
Darius or how he is usually called Doc. Is a warm and kind soul which shines a golden light preferring to heal than to kill. Is the son of a "retired" hospitaller, he enlisted so he could keep the fight his mother always spoke about.
Shas'la T'au Kais a Tau from the Fire cast. An honorable soldier, who truly encapsulates his faith in the greater good. Has no ill intention towards either the humans or her and Arandur. Trustworthy and kind, his soul while far dimmer than the humans and theirs is golden signifying his virtuous being.
Now the last one the Captain with the dying soul. The one who caught her attention...Marcus is his name, been through much for someone at his age, various deployments, the single survivor of two different units, being through hell and back amidst the battlefield. Has known war throughout all his life never knowing anything aside from that. If he was an Eldar he most certainly would be an Exarch, however, something else is present in him.
His eyes were like amethysts, filled with a mix of stoicism and a glimmer of unyielding spirit, which hides the truth about his soul and real feelings. Thalindra could see the depth of his resolve to make his men live for as long as he could, this reason being the fire that kept his terminally ill soul alive. The Imperial also had a strong, chiseled jawline, with a slightly crooked nose that had seen better days, and probably got broken or hurt multiple times. His high cheekbones and furrowed brow gave him a look of perpetual focus and intensity.
Marcus had short, dark hair, cropped close to his head in a practical military style. Strands of silver hinted at his age and the stress of countless battles he had fought.
His skin was weathered and tanned, a testament to exposure to harsh environments and relentless combat. Scars crisscrossed his arms and face, each one a story of survival against horrifying odds.
Next was his height the Captain was tall and imposing, even by human standards. His broad shoulders and muscular build spoke of years of rigorous training and battlefield experience. He was every bit the warrior, his look made out him to be.
Thalindra lowers her gaze towards the pocket of the Captain, she can see that he is grasping something of value but she doesn't know what yet. His mind is too muddled by conflicting concepts, made of a cacophony of orders, strategies, memories, gunfire, trauma, and combat.
'He never knew peace' She thought while keeping her stare, the Seer wished to delve deeper to understand why the soul of this human was sick. However, her gaze is caught in his now wide eyes as he is staring right back at her, confusion, fear, and suspicion at the forefront of his mind.
At first, she thought of simply turning her gaze away, but something deep inside her pushed her to try and understand him. The spirits words rang in her heart, to follow her emotions.
Deciding to believe in the entity's words she did something that shocked even herself. She raised herself from the ground and with slow movements her hands went around her neck, the moment she started moving Marcus clenched his fits until his knuckles went white, and his eyes were starting to burn as his warrior instincts rolled in.
Thalindra kept going to the clasps around her neck, Arandur angrily stepped beside her and asked in Eldari:
"What are you doing?"
"Building bridges" She replied in a way that left no room to argue with a loud hiss she unclasped her helmet her gaze never leaving the human.
The noise soon woke up the other Imperials who turned very confused and angry gazes at her, their minds screaming in aggression believing her to be trying to harm them in some way.
Ellias started to rise up, his natural instinct to protect his comrades surfacing.
"What are you planning to do to us Xeno witch!?"
He started to advance towards her, however, Marcus put a single hand in the air signaling for the Corporal to stop. His eyes did not betray any emotion but she knew he was terrified, she could feel in her own stomach the same dreadful feeling that the human Captain was having.
With very deliberate slow movements to not scare them, she took her helmet off shaking her head side to side to release her hair from her headgear. Then with a solemn expression on her face and the most disarming tone she could muster Thalindra answered the Corporal in perfect low gothic.
"To introduce myself, Im Farseer Thalindra Starweaver daughter of Aralith and Althorin, a proud servant of Ulthwe. Do you mind me asking your names?"
There it was that weird feeling once again as if someone was looking directly at his soul. Marcus felt naked every time this feeling burst forth, it highly unnerved him, since it was a completely alien thing to feel so exposed. Even in his dreams, this sensation pursued him which made him annoyed.
Then he remembered the possible source of that feeling, the Eldar with the staff. That weird Xenos who he traded stares within the arena, the feeling was unmistakable, this was enough for the Captain to be shaken out of his slumber to stare right back at the tall Xenos woman.
The red lenses of her helm greeted him and just as he imagined she stood just a meter and a half from him. The aura irradiating from her gaze was suffocating and unnerving, if Marcus could run he would without a second thought.
But what he fails to comprehend is why she keeps staring at him, why he feels such things when she does that. Or better yet is this Xenos truly a she? Her body shape led him to believe so since her curves made her out to be very lean and athletic, and while small, what he can presume to be boobs had their shapes on her breastplate armor.
So many questions enthralled with his fear of being smitten from reality by her psyker powers. However, what she decides to do next rang all alarms in his head. The tall Woman started to quickly raise her hands towards her neck her movements graceful and borderline perfect which set him off in a bizarre way, in a matter of milliseconds she pressed something on the weird apparatus around her neck which in turn released a loud hissing sound.
This is enough to wake the other soldiers from their nap. Ellias was the first to shift at the noise, the other guardsmen soon following suit, Marcus could feel their confusion and the tense atmosphere created by these Xenos actions.
Ellias started getting up, his demeanor aggressive as if he stared at the Eldar.
"What are you planning to do to us Xeno witch!?"
Ellias threateningly asked before starting to move towards her, but he was cut short by the Captain's hand. Not wanting to escalate a conflict inside this cramped cell Marcus was quick to put a stop to his Corporal before he could send them to an early grave.
She was more than capable of erasing them from existence with a mere movement of her hand, that being clear after the way she dealt with the enemies in the arena. If this witch wanted them dead, she already could have dispatched them in their sleep, so if this Xenos is approaching them Marcus wishes to understand why would it give the time of day to mere puny humans.
Since it was obvious that the gap between her kind and his was horrifying. For once in his life the Imperial had a glance at what the word "absolute" power meant, and this was represented on this Eldar right in front of him. So Emperor helps him to not get in the way of such a monster.
With the same movements as before, she took her helmet off shaking her head in quick motions from side to side to release her hair from her headgear. And the face that greeted him was of the most beautiful woman he had ever laid his eyes upon, Marcus knew his range of examples wasn't the best but he was certain that her beauty was almost uncanny for him.
Her hair is a vibrant cascade of red which reminds him of a peaceful sunset, flowing down to her waist in smooth, soft locks. It contrasts sharply with her dark armor and robes, it flows with an unnatural grace the scent of it reminding him of lavender.
Next was her face, with high cheekbones and a smooth, without any kind of imperfections whatsoever, not even a single wrinkle, the skin glows making it appear almost ethereal. Her features are delicate but her face exudes an air of authority and strength. Her lips are full and painted a dark color which contrasts with her current gear. Her eyebrows are arched and expressive, adding to the intensity of her penetrative gaze. Despite the calm and composed expression on her face, there's an underlying intensity in her expression showing that even though her face was a work of art what was behind it was far away from being just a pretty face. Her ears were long and pointed a single golden earring adorning her right ear.
Then his eyes gave a quick look at her body and what he saw surprised him. She was tall at least bigger than an average door, possessing a lithe and graceful body, with an athletic yet slender build, her body appeared to be sculpted from the most fine marble, each curve being unnaturally perfect.
Then the last thing he set his eyes upon was something he would never forget for all of his life. The Eldar eyes are a striking shade of aquamarine, a perfect harmony of blue and green, they are deep and enigmatic. Seeming to glow with an inner light, one that filled him with warmth, wonder, and fear. They are the eyes of someone who has seen and learned too much.
She is the definition of perfection in his eyes, from her posture to her ethereal beauty. The Captain's heart was drumming on his chest, confusion riddling his mind at how such a being could exist. Then the Xeno spoke her voice being serene and extremely feminine, each word said in perfect low gothic.
"To introduce myself, Im Farseer Thalindra Starweaver daughter of Aralith and Althorin, a proud servant of Ulthwe. Do you mind me asking your names?"
All the humans present stared back at her in tense silence, Marcus could feel the tension between his squad and Thalindra, turning to look at Ellias he could feel the Corporal shaking to say some of his classical lines that would on any normal day with any other person be a welcome distraction from their horrible situation, but right now and with this Xeno...Hell no.
"I am Marcus, Captain of the 88th Cadian regiment." He cut in order to guarantee their lives. Then he proceeded to point towards Darius.
Doc is of average height and build, not as imposing as Marcus but fit and agile. The Specialist frame is lean and slightly wiry, suggesting a person who relies on dexterity and precision rather than brute strength. His skin is pale, with a few freckles dotting his cheeks and nose. The pale complexion contrasts with the grime and bloodstains that frequently mar his face and hands during and after combat.
Darius' eyes are a warm brown, often filled with a mix of concern and focus. They are the eyes of someone who has seen a lot of suffering but remains resolute in his duty to heal and protect his comrades.
Doc has short, sandy blonde hair that is kept neatly trimmed. His hair is often tousled and dusty from the battlefield, and there's a faint hint of stubble on his jawline, suggesting he shaves whenever he gets the chance.
Like the rest of the squad, Doc wears the standard Cadian armor, though he is modified with additional pouches and compartments for medical supplies. His armor is marked with a red cross on the shoulder and chest plate, signifying his role as a medic. He carries a large medkit strapped to his back and various smaller pouches filled with medical supplies on his belt. Bandages, syringes, and vials of various substances are carefully organized and readily accessible.
"This is Doc our combat medic and Specialist." Then he pointed towards Janessa.
Janessa is of average height with a slender, athletic build. Her body is toned and agile, perfect for the quick movements and precise aiming required of a sniper. Her single eye is a striking violet, sharp and observant.
The Private has long, dark brown hair that she usually keeps tied back in a tight ponytail to prevent it from obstructing her vision or getting in the way during combat. Her skin is fair with a few faint scars from past battles. Her face and hands are often smudged with dirt and gunpowder, giving her a rugged, battle-hardened look.
Jax wears the standard Cadian armor, modified for her role as a sniper. Her armor is lighter and more flexible, allowing for greater mobility and stealth. The chest plate is reinforced, but the joints and limbs have additional articulation for easier movement.
"This is Private Janessa, Cadian to the core, if you want a job done she is your girl."
Then the last was the famous feisty Corporal.
Ellias is tall and powerfully built, with broad shoulders and a muscular frame. His physique reflects years of rigorous training and combat experience.
His face is square and rugged, with a strong jawline and a slightly crooked nose that has been broken and reset more than once. His cheeks are often stubbled, giving him a perpetually rough appearance. The Imperial eyes are a deep amethyst similar to Marcus's, intense and focused. They are always alert, constantly scanning the environment for any potential threats or opportunities.
The Corporal has tanned skin, weathered by exposure to harsh conditions and numerous battlefields. He bears several scars, the most notable being a long one running down his left forearm, a reminder of a close encounter with a Chaos Cultist.
Ellias has short, cropped black hair, kept neat and regulation-compliant. His hair is beginning to show signs of graying at the temples, adding to his seasoned and experienced look.
He wears the standard Cadian armor, heavily customized for maximum protection and utility. His armor shows signs of wear, with numerous dents and scratches testifying to its many encounters with enemy fire.
"Corporal Ellias, my right hand. Good soldier with a big mouth, but still can kick ass as no other."
Thalindra nodded at each one of them, the Imperials all still nervous of her presence. Then she pointed with her head towards the other Eldar warrior behind her.
"This is Arandur Swiftblade, son of Vanhya and Alator, Dire Avenger of Ulthwe."
The other warrior very differently than her just stood still and leaned against the metal bars. His intimidating gaze shifts between all humans. Then he said something in that weird language of theirs from which Marcus did not have a clue of what they were talking about.
"A bheil thu a' dèanamh charaidean leotha a-nis? Nach leòr a' bheachd-smuain a th' againn an-dràsta?" Arandur said nonchalantly, a weird sense of disdain on his strange words.
Thalindar answered back in their language her tone was aggressive but contained.
"Agus dè a tha dùil agad gun tilg mi dealanaich air an ceann gun adhbhar sam bith?"
"Co-dhiù bhiodh barrachd àite againn..." He replied to her in a manner which denoted a cocky response.
This was enough to flare the temper of Thalindra, her fiery red hair started floating, and her eyes shone with blue energy.
"Na bruidhinn rium san dòigh seo Arandur! Chan eil dòigh ann a bhith feargach le daoine nach do choinnich thu a-riamh, mar sin stad air a bhith a' cur dragh orra no cuidich Isha mi leis na nì mi dhut."
The Dire Avenger only raised his hands in the air in mock surrender before turning his back towards them staring at the wall at the other side of their cells.
Thalindra quickly regained her composure before continuing with her introduction.
"Pleasure to meet you all. I know that my presence..."
Something got her attention for a split second, she had taken notice of it the moment she had taken her helmet out, but now that she stopped to really interact with them she noticed.
Marcus' soul flared a little each time he stopped to look at her eyes, it was very small and almost invisible, if she were an untrained Seer this could go easily under the radar. The flickering is of a small pinkish color that pulses with each beating of his heart. This color was usually associated with attraction or passion, so in order to not mistake her assertion The Farseer stopped, holding the gaze of the Captain, and there she was able to see.
'He is attracted by my appearance, while this is not unheard of. Is very weird that this Mon-keigh would even consider this kinda thing' She feels flattered by it, since she knows is not a lecherous kind of attraction is one born out of curiosity and admiration, however, Thalindra would be lying if she didn't feel a little irked out by this notion.
While she doesn't see humans as savage beasts as many of her kin do, the Seer most certainly sees them as misguided uncultured barbarians who don't know better. And knowing that one of them finds her attractive is a tad unnerving.
But deciding to shove this particular incident aside Thalindra continues from where she left off.
"...And appearance may unsettle you Mon-keigh. But I assure you that I do not have any ill intentions towards you and your group."
The Captain scratches his chin in reflection, she can feel his distrust and confusion at her words.
"Look Lady Thalindra...I mean no disrespect, but why are you talking to us? Your friend there seems very keen on not acknowledging us, so why should me and my team do the same to you?"
Skepticism reverbs through his mind, Marcus was not buying her words, he did not believe her to be outwardly hostile towards them, but he was certain that her actions right now were to accomplish a hidden agenda. The Imperial is not wrong though, he is just thinking about the wrong type of "agenda".
"Arandur is very weary of other races, so is only natural that he is acting like a spoiled brat..."
She turned her eyes towards her brother-in-arms, his back still turned to her cockiness radiating from his soul. There it was something she disliked very much on her kind, the arrogance that sometimes made them look like fools. Thalindra is thankful for having Eldrad as a mentor who managed to snap her out of some of those behaviors.
Turning to the humans once again the Seer tries to continue the diplomatic conversation.
"I'm speaking with you since we will be sharing this cell for some time, maybe even longer than we are expecting or comfortable with. So is only natural for us to strive towards a healthy coexistence, we don't know how long will it take for any of the Dark Kin to actually collect us for another fight, so I believe it to be imperative that we stay civil until this fateful moment."
The Seer explained in her most polite manner to give these soldiers the best impression possible of her, however, their responses were... lackluster if it could be described as that.
"Okay, agreed." Marcus quickly answered his demeanor still very weary of her intentions and reasonings. His words were far more to not anger her than an actual sincere response.
"Oh well... Then I think we are settled then."
Thalindra tried to hide the disappointment in her voice but failed horribly.
"Yup..." The Human Officer nodded awkwardly, not knowing what to do after their interaction, his eyes now avoiding staring directly at her.
"So if any of you Mon-keigh need anything we will be just..." With that, Thalindra retreaded to Arandur's side sitting gracefully on a lotus position.
"...here" With a sigh the Seer finished speaking feeling their distrust radiating from their essences.
'So had good luck "building bridges"?' Arandur turned towards her moving his fingers and signaling in a jestful manner.
Thalindra finally broke her composure her cheeks flaring in shame.
'Shut up' was all she signaled before closing her eyes giving space to her meditation. Which was highly needed after so many emotions, the necessity of finding her center being imperative to stave off the hold of She-Who-Thirsts.
Also, she did not have enough time yet to mourn the loss, so she'll properly do that and reflect on the lives they lived and the deaths they died, as per custom. But most of her prayers and musings are dedicated to her sister-in-arms Kaelith, the Banshee memories being the ones most dear to her heart.
Thalindra lost sense of time amidst her meditation before her sensitive ears caught the noise of steps coming towards their holding cell. She stood up instantly alongside Arandur who just like her noticed the approaching guards.
Soon two Kabalite warriors stood outside the cell, their black armor with a dark purple fang etched onto their helmets signifying that they were from the Obsidian Fang.
"Asuryani you have been summoned by Lord Kaltharis Vex."
The one on the right spoke with venom in his voice, he stepped up to open the gate, but not before his partner gave her a warning.
"Do not use any of your witchery or you will face the wrath of all Commorrogah, filthy witch."
He finished spitting on the ground centimeters from her shoes.
Refusing to even acknowledge their words she simply stepped out of the cell Arandur went along to follow her but was stopped by one of the guards holding a splinter rifle toward his face.
"You stay here, the Archon wishes to speak only with her."
Thalindra knew that Arandur was one step from disarming the guard and putting up an unnecessary fight. But she quickly dissuaded him through her mind.
'I'll be fine, just stay put' With a gentle smile she proceeded to be escorted by the guards to her fateful encounter with the despicable Archon of the Obsidian Fang. But not before her eyes crossed for a single moment with Marcus who was staring at her with curiosity and a speck of worry.
The entire travel towards the Archon spire was not long, Thalindra spent most of the time meditating to conserve her sanity from the overall draining environment of the Dark City. Even with her psyker mind, losing focus here meant being open to all assortments of psychological torture.
Everything in Commorrogah is made to cause suffering and oppression. The ambient light is low and eerie, casting long shadows and bathing everything in an unnatural glow. Colors are muted and sinister, with occasional flashes of bright, harsh light from unknown sources.
The skyline is dominated by impossibly tall and slender spires, many of which are twisted into grotesque shapes. These towers are the homes, fortresses, and arenas of the Drukhari elite. Between many of them, were suspended platforms and narrow bridges spanning the chasms between buildings, often swarming with Druchii.
The air is thick with toxic fumes, creating a haze that partially obscures the view. The pollution adds to the oppressive atmosphere, contributing to the sense of decay and corruption. Alongside the echoes of screams, distant wails, and the hum of arcane machinery, adding to the feeling of dread.
Thalindar takes glimpses at the horrid spectacle but refrains from staring for longer since she wants to preserve her already weakened mind from such horrors. Some time passes as the ship finally stops atop a large spire, the architecture combining elements of Gothic and Baroque styles, with ornate decorations, sharp angles, and an overall aesthetic that is both grandiose and menacing. Through the landing pad are vases filled with twisted and sinister plants, many of which are carnivorous or poisonous, serving as a weird decoration.
Both guards shoved her out of the ship pointing their splinter rifles towards her head.
"Move, and don't stop."
Thalindra complies walking with firm steps towards the entrance of the building which stands just in front of the landing pad.
The door is made from polished black wraithbone, which is sculpted with the symbol of the Obsidian Fang. She opens the door which makes a sickling cracking noise, as soon as it opens Thalindra steps in drinking on the interior of this place.
What greets her in the main entrance is a grand affair, with towering doors made of dark, polished wraith bone, intricately carved with scenes of the Kabal conquests and tortures. The hall is illuminated by eerie, flickering lights suspended from the high ceiling. The area is heavily guarded by elite Kabalite Warriors, armed and armored in finely crafted gear, their presence a constant reminder that her life is at their mercy.
Advancing from the main hall another great door stands in her way, however, this time the door opens without Thalindra opening it a loud sound of cracking bones can be heard as the polished black door opens with a loud pained moan.
The first thing she noticed was the lighting in the throne room was deliberately dim, with strategically placed arcane lanterns and bioluminescent plants casting an eerie, shifting light, creating deep shadows and a sense of foreboding.
Then came the walls which are adorned with rich tapestries depicting Kalthari's victories, the focus being on different scenarios from which he was the victor. These artworks are both beautiful and horrifying, crafted with exquisite detail. Along the walls, display cases and mounts showcase trophies from the Archon's many conquests. Skulls, weapons, and relics from defeated enemies served as grim reminders of his prowess and ruthlessness.
At the center of the room, an ornate fountain made of dark marble and bone flows with a thick, dark liquid that resembles blood. The sound of the flowing liquid adds a chilling backdrop to the room's activities. As silent, fearful slaves and servants attend to the Archon's needs, moving quietly around the room. They are often adorned with cruelly beautiful collars and chains, a constant reminder of their subjugation.
Then at the far wall was a throne and in it sitting was Kaltharis both hands under his chin, the Archon's gaze never leaving her the moment she stepped forth into this room.
Vex's throne is elevated on a dais, making it the focal point of the room. The throne itself is a masterpiece of dark artistry, constructed from the bones of vanquished foes and adorned with precious gemstones that glow with an eerie light. The throne's design is both elegant and menacing, with sharp angles and barbed details. It is cushioned with rare furs and silks, providing a stark contrast to the hard, bone-like structure. Is also imbued with dark energies and arcane symbols that pulsate with malevolent power.
But what caught her eye just next to the throne was a game known as Sha'ataq, the Drukhari version of chess. This game is as intricate and deadly as the Druchii itself, combining strategy with a macabre elegance.
The board is made of dark, polished wraithbone, with squares of alternating deep obsidian and pale, ghostly bone. Each square is etched with delicate, arcane symbols that glow faintly. The board is larger than a traditional chess board, consisting of an 8x8 grid. The edges are adorned with barbed trim and intricate carvings depicting scenes of battle and subjugation.
The pieces are crafted from a strange viscous black shapeshifting liquid. Each piece is a miniature work of art, detailed and lifelike, often resembling Drukhari warriors, beasts, and machinery.
Her eyes lingered on the board game before her attention was brought back by the Archon sending his guards away.
"I come as you requested Kaltharis Vex. May I ask what is the nature of this particular summon?"
Kaltharis just raised himself from the throne with slow steps and marched away from his throne to stop just beside the board of Sha'ataq.
"You're no longer a slave of my Kabal. You and your other lackey..."
The Archon moved a piece in the board his back still turned to her. Thalindra tried to peer into his mind to ascertain more of what was the nature of this whole thing but his thoughts were clouded as if he was occluding them.
"As of this moment, I'm officially relinquishing my rights over your life to my daughter Elyria of the Cult of Strife."
Thalindra was puzzled by this since it did not make any sense that he would bring her here just to announce something he could send one of his minions. No this was about something else...
"What is the real reason you summoned me here?"
Thalindra asked with authority, not wanting to waste her time interacting with scum such as this Archon, and for once since the conversation he turned fully to her, his face a mask of indifference and mild disgust.
"To give you a warning."
This rang alarm bells in her head, fearing his next words the farseer simply gulped down waiting for him to continue.
"I know what your kind is capable of, and I know very well that if you so wished could wipe out this very floor with what remained of my ass. However, I also know how to bend your ilk pretty well."
With that, he took a small familiar pouch from his belt, the same that was in her sash.
"The Soulstones!" Thalindra exclaimed panic in her voice.
"Exactly. Now...it is pretty simple"
He took one of the gems from the leathery sack, then with his index finger and thumb he held it within some centimeters from his face.
"Do as my daughter says, don't cause any trouble and I won't have to do this."
Then with a quick motion, he turned the entire stone into dust condemning whoever was inside of it to eternal damnation on She-Who-Thirst dwelling. A blood-churning scream ruptured by the vanishing soul who just got claimed by their worst nightmare.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Thalindra screamed in abject horror, her hair floating with psychic energy, tears falling from her eyes as the Drukhari rubbed the remaining dust from the stone out of his fingers. She fell to the ground her entire body shaking with desperation of knowing that one of the sons of Ulthwe just got sent to She-Who-Thirsts.
"I think you got the point. So now there was something else I would like to address..."
He turned away once again, putting the souls back into his belt as he marched back beside the board. Thalindra's hands started twitching in anger, her face turning into a scowl, and the energy radiating from her eyes shone in a red light.
She could feel the energy coursing through her body, her hands started releasing small cackles of energy, the sorrow and anger of losing one of the souls of her men making her finally lose her composure.
The Farseer on the ground started to float her psyker mind manifesting her emotions and killing intent. However, the Archon's voice broke her wrath for a moment.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you..."
The moment he spoke a shot rang through the throne room as a splinter shot scratched the side of her left cheek. Caughting the Seer by complete surprise.
She tried to turn around to retaliate, however soon Thalindra felt weak and her body started lowering itself to the ground once again, her attention was on the Archon who in an instant was right in front of her centimeters from her face.
"Well, that was quick. Expected to at least take around a minute or so to take effect on you."
His expression was an analytical one his eyes which are a piercing shade of cold, dark blue, almost black, with a predatory gleam that can unsettle even the bravest souls. They seem to glint with a cruel amusement at her current state.
"Well good, this is very useful." Kaltharis turned away from her once again his imposing height and long white hair moving with his graceful movements, marching back to the board once again he started moving some pieces while staring at her.
"Now before I send you back to your filth, I want you to indulge me in some questions..."
"You see... I'm studious of the ways of war, and every enemy that manages to beat me on the battlefield I capture some of them to study and to better myself for future encounters. While the ones I defeat I destroy for their subpar performance and intellect."
He kept playing with some pieces as if in a mock game with himself.
"But not you..."
He took a piece from the game and showed it to her between his fingers, it was made of that familiar strange black oily substance, and the miniature in question was a perfect reconstruction of her. Helmet and everything, including her ornate staff of Seer.
"You had every reason to just run away as your kind usually does. But you didn't...why?"
Thalindra was left speechless, she did not expect this line of questions even less the fact that this vile Drukhari was managing to shield his thoughts away from her abilities. She could theoretically push forth through his defenses and peer at his intentions, but the moment the Seer did that the Archon would know her attempts at reading his mind.
He stepped forth towards her on the ground piece in hand, his expression unreadable.
"You knew that going for that city was a trap, but you still pushed through to face me and my forces head-on..."
Kaltharis knelt in front of her showcasing the game piece to her, playing around with it while still talking in that cold indifferent tone.
"Why?"
The Archon's face was serious, betraying no emotion whatsoever and for the first time since arriving at the Dark City Thalindra felt truly afraid. Not due to pain or the promise of abuse...No.
Her fear came from the fact that this Drukhari was completely different than his other kin, he didn't betray anything on his face or thoughts, also this line of questioning caught her by complete surprise.
He caught her by the throat the claws of his gauntlet scratching her perfect skin, blood dripping from the puncture wounds caused by them.
"Don't make me repeat myself, Witch."
She struggled to breathe as he raised her up from the ground. His face still not betraying any emotion, Thalindra expected satisfaction or some kind of twisted fascination, but no his face was unreadable while he choked her.
"In...no...coff coff...cent"
With that the vile Druchii released her, and Thalindra hit the ground hard. The moment she did he caught her by her red locks.
"Didn't quite catch that, say to me one more time."
His clawed hands dug into her scalp as he roughly handled her head while expecting her answer. Thalindra felt stinging pain as he pulled her hair around.
"THEY WERE INNOCENT!" She screamed in pain and anger as Kaltharis finally released her.
"Now that is more like it" He took her by her arm dragging her along the floor next to the board beside his throne. Then he roughly threw her above it.
"Now take a look at the playing field."
With resignation and not hoping to further his assaults Thalindra complied looking at the game right in front of her. It was organized in a way to simulate their last combat.
He took a vial with the strange black oily substance to use on the miniatures. Kaltharis let the liquid on the palm of his left hand, then in a moment, it took the shape of a small family of humans. The Archon took the piece putting it just behind his forces.
"This right here was the Mon-Keigh living in the city. They were behind my defense lines, you had a considerable opposition force between you and them."
He pushed the pieces representing her forces towards his.
"In normal circumstances, I would simply think of this as my enemy being stupid. But now this is far from normal circumstances..."
Putting the piece representing her just in front of the other forces Kaltharis proceeded.
"You were leading them. A Seer, you knew pretty well that this was a trap, you had a vision of the entire board but still you chose to play along with it."
He circled her and the warriors with his miniatures, surrounding them.
"You could just run away as your kind usually does. Hell, you would not lose anything in doing so, but you still decided to fight me, knowing full well that you were entering the proverbial dragon's mouth."
He once again picked up her piece staring intently at it.
"What baffles me more is that throughout the years have never ever caught one of you slimy bastards. All the traps, plannings, and measures I take you lot always managed to slip through my fingers. But you...Farseer Thalindra chose to be captured."
"I took the city hostage as a bluff, since in the end if it didn't amount to anything I would have an entire city at my disposal. However, it did work going against all odds..."
With a scoff, he asked his tone shifting to one of contained anger.
"Why did you do it?"
Thalindra was confused, she just answered that, but he still insisted on asking her this.
"They were innocent, your target was common folk. They were not Imperial forces or military points of interest, you were threatening children and women who had no way of defending themselves."
Her answer brought forth a silence in the room Kaltharis stared intently at her, before his lips curved into a sinister smile, a little giggle coming from his mouth.
"Hehehe...Are you serious?"
The Farseer kept an impassive expression on her face, not enjoying being taken so lightly after her serious response.
"Yes, I am."
Then his smile turned into maniacal laughter as he bent himself to laugh uncontrollably.
"HAHAHAHAHAHAH THIS IS SO PRECIOUS!"
Each time he stopped to look at her Kaltharis broke into another fit of laughter and giggles.
"Inno...Hahahah...cent? The Mon-Keigh? Do you truly believe that?"
Once again his jests were met with her contained anger, silence greeting each laugh, and mocking cackle.
"By the Muses how can you be so naive!?"
The Archon exclaimed in a joking manner, his eyes filled with tears due to his laughing fit. But as soon as it came, it went away his demeanor changing into his indifferent persona once again.
"Innocence? There is no such thing in this galaxy. You better than everyone else should know that."
With his thumb and index finger, Kaltharis crushes the black miniature of her changing it back to the black liquid.
"I previously thought your kind to be wise strategists, capable of leveling the field each time. The perfect opponents for my cunning and ever-needing mind..."
He stepped forth to her side taking her head on his clawed fingers.
"Thanks to your idiocy, you managed to change my opinion on those who follow your path. If more Farseers think like you, the Asuryani are already doomed..."
Thalindra had enough of this bastard, so for once in this conversation she decided to give him a piece of her mind. Struggling to speak through his hold around her head.
"Idiocy is to disregard life as a mere commodity. To see others of your kin as disposable tools to further your own vain agenda. Idiocy is to live in a way that serves only yourself, a way that still feeds She-Who-Thirsts to this very moment!"
Kalthari's face changed to one of reflection his blue orbs never leaving her eyes. Then he replied in a "matter of fact" way, as if his next words were obvious.
"Life is a commodity cousin, just take a look at the philosophy of your own path. Every time your council decides to sacrifice millions if not trillions of "inferior" life forms so you could spare one thousand Eldar just prove this concept. Life for your lot has value, just as is with us."
"The difference is that we do not make a moral argument for it when we decide to raid a planet and enslave its population, we know very well the price of each life we take, humans are cheap since they are like rats, spread through all the galaxy like the little critters they are. Tau are just as cheap due to their frail complexions and low pain tolerance, as the Orks and Tyranids who are more expensive since the Haemonculi like to buy them to study their biology and use their genetic material for new abominations. At last the most valuable are the Asuryani and Exodites who can be employed in so many different areas. "
His stare became intense as he uttered his next words with venom.
"Now do you know how many offers I received since your capture to sell you to be some concubine of another Archon? How much they were willing to pay? How many wished to have such an exotic creature as a sex slave?"
This made her gag in disgust, feeling sick of only imagining the prospect of such a horrible thing. Thalindra thanked Isha for not receiving such a destiny.
"Even your life has a value Farseer and it isn't cheap dear..."
He released her going for his throne. She used her hand to soothe the pain from the Archon's hold.
"Now let's drop the moral high ground thing and be serious. All your dear Craftworld does is to their own benefit, all this bullshit about "helping the Eldar kind" gets old once you notice that they prefer to ally themselves with filthy Mon-Keigh and a bunch of idiotic zealots of Ynnead than to reunite the Craftworlds in a single force. But that would mean curbing Eldrads authority, and we can't have that can we?"
Thalindra had murder in her eyes as the arrogant way Kaltharis was speaking of her mentor.
"Eldrad is the greatest Seer alive! You would know that if you got your feeble mind out of the dark, so don't judge someone you barely know and understand."
He let out a cackle at her words, mocking her faith in the Great Seer.
"Believe what you want to believe, but it won't change reality."
Thalindra was quick to deliver a witty response.
"The reality I see is that your kind is so blind to their own path of self-destruction feeding She-Who-Thirsts, that you became incapable of conceiving something above thyself!"
This did not cause the reaction she expected. The Seer expected the Archon to be angered or annoyed, but he only laughed at her words.
"Well, aren't we all?"
Then just like with the last sudden shifts, he became unreadable once again.
"There is no kin, Thalindra. There is no right or wrong, up or down, black or white. Everything just is, the only kin I have is my daughter, and that is it. Abandon your vain illusions of unity, morals, and cause, since they are not only false, they won't help you here. Idealistic fools such as you meet their quick deaths here in Commorrogah, so do yourself a favor and cease being such an idiot, and at least honor the joke of a leader you have."
She was going to reply to his horrible words but the Archon waved at someone behind her, steps quickly coming towards her direction.
"Take her back, and schedule her fight for the next cycle. Let's see more of what she can do...Hope you don't disappoint me, Witch."
"Wait..."
Before she could talk Thalindra was dragged by two guards toward the exit door, all the time staring intently towards the cold indifferent blue orbs of the Archon. The black wraithbone door closed behind her.
Kaltharis was beyond disappointed, he expected so much more from the Seer. Some kind of ploy or great strategy that he forgot to account for, something other than the pathetic answer she gave.
He was up to torture her for hours in search of her trump card, to get the final piece of the puzzle, now he just hoped he let that be. His imagination is far more entertaining than the reality of a moralistic idiot who gave herself and her men on a silver platter for a bunch of meaningless meat.
He rubbed his temples in frustration, knowing he bested a useless Seer. For once in his life he thought he finally managed to step up his game and win against one of the Witches, just for now realized it was a string of luck, for going against that fool.
"Disappointed father?"
Elyria's words came from just beside him, already accustomed to her quirks. Her mother taught her well the art of stealth, being able to easily surpass all the guards and security just to talk to her father.
The first thing to greet him is his daughter's piercing violet eyes. Her gaze is intense, cold, and calculating just like his.
"Why didn't you enter from the front door?"
"It's not fun doing that way."
That is his daughter alright, the ever-dangerous, beautiful, and lethal Elyria.
With a tired voice, Kaltharis said:
"The Farseer won't give you trouble, I made sure to guarantee that she'll behave."
Elyria walked around the throne towards the board of Sha'ataq. Her long midnight black hair flowed behind her with each step.
"So what you got from her?"
The Archon heavily sighed in frustration his hands propping up his chin.
"That she is a naive fool who knows no better. In other words an idiot."
The Raven-Head laughed in jest at her father's words.
"Oof...the first time you best one of them, and they are mentally challenged haha!"
He growls at the provocations done by his daughter.
"Shut up Elyria, or I'll personally send you on a hunt to gather five live hive tyrants!"
This made her laugh even more, raising three fingers in the air.
"First: I serve the Cult of Strife now, so I don't need to obey any of your orders mind you."
She lowered a finger.
"Second: Im just fucking with you."
Than another.
"Third: Fuck you."
She lowers the last.
Both stayed in a tense silence before both broke out in laughter.
"You are your mother's daughter after all..."
Kaltharis solemnly says, his cold indifferent mask breaking for a moment. With a fake coff in hopes of disguising this momentary lapse, the Archon said:
"I hope you prepared something special for our Eldar guest's next fight... I know how creative you can get."
Elyria's face changed to one of glee and ecstasy.
"Oh, I had prepared something great, perfect to put them in their places. A fight so brutal and overwhelming that neither of those fools and the filthy Mon-Keigh will manage to push through."
For the Archon, this game of blood and death was only in the beginning, may the best thrive on the grounds of the holy arena.
Welp, here we are once again! Hope you liked this chapter, I certainly did haha!
Chapter 4 is in the works, gonna take it more slowly after this release, in order to not overwork my mind XD.
Until then have a nice one! Godspeed to you all folks!
PS: Gonna change the format of the notes, probably creating a small summary at the beginning and at the end notes, but this will be done next chapter.