The Three-Edged Sword: Rallying to War

[Veldanya Venalla]

"Understanding is a three-edged sword.  Your side....their side....and the truth." - Unknown

*Several years after the events surrounding the Eye of Terror*

"It is as we have feared isn't it?"

The large armored figure standing at the balcony, looking out over the city turns at the sound of the voice, his gaze coming to rest on a slender, winged woman a short distance away.  The Seraphim nods grimly.

"Yes.  Not only do the scouting reports clearly show an increase in the forces of Darkness all along their borders, as well as an escalation in raiding attacks...but I can even sense the growing strength of Darkness itself.  He...is returning."

The woman moves closer, joining Jharm at the balcony as they both overlook the sprawling shining city.

"Yet still She has not returned.  Your travels with those "Companions" failed to provide any leads as to her whereabouts, as well as weaken our forces when we joined in the assault upon that "Eye of Terror" hellscape."

Her words, while neither accusatory nor hostile do still bear a bit of a sting to them, demonstrated by the Seraphim looking off to the side and clenching a fist.

"Correct.  I believe we made the right choice though.  The Eye had to be dealt with, otherwise I'm sure eventually it would have spilt over into other universes.  We stand against the Darkness, not only here in our own universe but I feel, elsewhere as well when necessary."

"You know we agree with your decision...but that does not change that not only are we weaker in strength now then if we had not participated in that attack...we also now face the very real likelihood of facing Darkness himself without Her direct aid.  Never before has such a thing been done.  What if we should fail?  Darkness will no doubt overcome everything and then what?  Invade other realms?"

"Correct once again.  All is not lost.  There are the Companions.  All of them are powerful in their own ways, and I have no doubt that they would all offer their assistance to us should I ask."

"Even that psychotic...what did you call him?  Ork?"

"Yes...Gulgrim.  In truth Im sure if he is offered the possibility of untold carnage and violence...I don't think there would be any way to deny him from participating.  Plus his army would be serve as a very suitable..."vanguard" for our own troops."

"Bloodthirsty psychotic monsters, that's what they are Seraphim."

"Yes...but given the dire threat...I see few other options.  I should go speak with..."

Suddenly the doors of the room burst open and an armored Seraph rushes in.

"Seraphim!  The General is in need.  Something has happened to him!"

*Elsewhere in the Citadel*

An older looking Seraph sits cross-legged, candles burning in a circle around him.  A pure white blindfold is wrapped around his head, his chest barely rising and falling as he seems to be deep in a meditative state.  Two Seraphs stand a distance away, clad in simple white robes.  Suddenly, the seated figure begins to spasm and shake before his head rolls back and suddenly light begins to glow from within the empty eye sockets covered by the blindfold.  The priests look at each other before the one rushes towards the spasming figure and the other quickly slips through the doorway and dashes out of sight. After a few moments the blind Seraphs movements calm and he slumps against the attending priest, his breath ragged and tired.

"I....Im okay.  I'm...alright.  Help me up...I...I must speak with the Seraphim at once."


It is at that moment the other priest returns, followed by Jharm and the woman he was speaking with.

"Ah, I suppose I should have known you would show up without delay."

"Of course General Drayvon, your acolyte tells me you were meditating and then without warning started to spasm all about.  Naturally this is concerning.  Are you.."

"Alright?  Yes of course, a bit tired perhaps but I am alright.  That is not important though.  What IS important is that I have had a vision."

Jharm takes a step back, slight shock on his face.

"A vision?  Was it about.."

"Yes. A vision of what is to come...or what may be to come.  I can not say for certain."

Drayvon turns and moves over to Jharm, placing a hand upon the larger Seraphs shoulder.

"As before, flashes of images and voices.  I recognize some as your Companions thanks to our interactions with them previously...but there is one I do not recognize.  Steady yourself and I will share it with you.  I feel that we must move quickly."

Focusing, he lowers his head and squeezes the Seraphims shoulder as Jharms mind is suddenly overtaken by a barrage of images, sights, and sounds.  They are gone in a flash though as he gives a shake of his head and rubs a head over his forehead.

"Y...yes.  Those were certainly Lord Reaver and the others I saw.  That woman though I have never seen before.  I got a strange sense that she is important in some way, and that final image...it seems familiar in a way.  I recognized some of the signs.  I...I think it was the Imperial plane...where the Eye of Terror used to reside."

"You have never been there before though correct?  There must be some reason it was in the vision though.  You told me once before that you thought you felt the presence of the Light after the Eye closed, but that all of us had already returned home."

"Yes, it was very faint, as if it was either a great distance away or..."

"Concealed deep within someone."

"General, do you really think this woman could be somehow be connected to Her?."

"Seraphim, we know that during the last fight between herself and Darkness, she struck Him down while at the same time shattering her form and sending a fragment into the void.  That is how we are able to once more travel to other universes.  She said that she would return to us in our hour of need and I believe it is certainly safe to say that time is now.  I think it is important that we have least seek out this individual and try to ascertain if there is something to her.  The vision certainly has made it clear that the help of your Companions will be required in the battles ahead.

Jharm nods, looking between the General and the woman he was speaking to earlier.

"Drayvon, Nethanya...prepare our people for the End War.  I will return to the Imperial universe and do what I can to try and find this woman and contact the Companions.  There is little time to waste if we are to stand against the Darkness and obtain victory."

The two other Seraphs nod and move off, orders already being shouted as Jharm turns and manifests a portal in front of him and disappears.

[Veldanya Venalla]

Location: The Lost Lady Saloon - Imperial Universe

The Lost Lady Saloon's exterior leaves no doubt that it is almost the dictionary definition of a rundown dive bar.  A few figures sit (or even lay) outside, overtaken by liquor or other likely substances. A figure clad in a dark brown trenchcoat and a wide brimmed hat, a pair of dark sunglasses over his eyes approaches the door and walks in.  The inside looks just as bad as the exterior, the furniture ramshackle and haphazardly bolted together (likely numerous times after bar fights).  The patrons cover the array of what one would imagine as thugs, ruffians, and general seedy underbelly denizens.  One single individual though sits in a back corner, shrouded heavily in darkness.  While one could say her general garb could mark her as someone affiliated with shady dealings, something about the way she holds herself almost denotes her as being "different" then the rest of the populace.  She reaches over and grabs a bottle near her, filled with what looks to be an almost icy blue liquid, pouring some into a shot glass and downing it as her gaze flits about the room.

Well here we are again...back once more searching for your needle in a haystack.  Its been years and still nothing.  Sometimes I wonder why I continue to entertain this idea.

Simple...there are few other options left open to us.  Your inquiries clearly indicated that a being I sensed some familiarity with had dealing in this universe.  Something involving an "Eye of Terror".  That was almost certainly who I sensed when we first visited this realm.  Hopefully this being will return at some point and we can try to track them down.  Otherwise we are back to wildly jumping into universes and hoping to get lucky again.

Fine...I just never really like visiting this universe.  We didn't exactly get the warmest welcome initially and ever since I swear they have been trying to find me.  More then once we have had to quickly depart.  What if when that happens we wound up...

Wait...quiet.  I sense something.  I believe he has returned and is near.  There, that figure that just entered.  I think that might be who we are looking for.

That guy?  Doesn't look like much, just some run of the mill bum.  Though...I do sense some power from him, seems like he is trying to hide it but there is certainly more there then if he was in fact some actual bum.

Her dark blue eyes gaze at the man as she downs another shot of the icy liquid.  Her hand instinctively slips down under her long black coat to the holster of one of her hand cannons.

Relax, I do not sense ill intent from him.

Doesn't mean much to me...besides, with the rest of these types in here, gotta be ready for anything.

It is at this point the man walks over to her table and grabs a nearby chair, pulling it over and sitting down.

"Beg you're pardon...may I join you?"


She looks across the table at him and pours herself another shot.

"Depends on your reasoning for wanting to join."

She sits up a bit more, draping one leg over the other as her one hand remains down at her side, a scant few inches from the grip of her gun even as she downs the shot with her other hand.  The man glances about a bit before leaning in slightly, his voice lowering a bit.

"I believe you are the one I have been searching for for quite some time.  It is imperative that we speak...preferably somewhere a bit more private then these surroundings offer."

One of her eyebrows raise slightly as her gaze moves over the other patrons, none visibly seeming to pay any attention to herself or the newcomer as of yet.  Her lips turn up into a slight smirk.

"Searching for some time?  Tell me, are there some sort of credits on the line for if you find me?"

"Credits?  No, I believe you misunderstand my meaning.  Listen..."

He leans a bit more

"I am not...from here.  I do not believe you are either.  Please, may we speak elsewhere before one of these unsavory types decides to become trouble."

Listen to him.  As I said, I sense no ill intent and we must find out more.  I know now that I sense something familiar to him.  Please.

The woman seems to think for a moment and then nods her head, raising the hand that was down by her hip to slide through her short dark hair. 

"Very well, lets head outside."

The two stand up and head for the door, the shot glass and bottle disappearing a moment after she leaves the table.  One of the nearby drunkards notices, their eyes getting a bit wider as they look down at their own drink.

"Mmm..I...I think I...I might be more drunk then I thought...."

The two exit the saloon, the man gesturing around the corner to an alleyway.  Hesitantly she follows him into it.  Once they have gone a short distance down it she stops and holds up a hand.

"Okay I think this is good enough.  Tell me what you gotta say and make it quick."

The mysterious man turns and looks at her, taking off the sunglasses to reveal two glowing white orbs in place of where his eyes would be.

"Well....that is one way to get my attention I must say."

He slips the shades back on and leans against the nearby wall.

"As I said, I come from a different place, a different universe.  This is not my normal appearance, I felt it much more..."appropriate" to don a disguise given the colorful surroundings and how my normal appearance would undoubtedly draw quite a lot of attention."

"Well with peepers like that I have little doubt that you wouldnt draw the attention of everyone around here in a split second."

"Yes, but as I was saying before, I have been searching for you for quite some time.  It is difficult to fully explain and I fear I do not have the time to explain it in detail but suffice to say, my people...my universe is in danger of being overwhelmed by great evil and I believe you are some how involved in regards to defeating it."

"A "great evil" you say?  Care to explain that a bit further at least?"

"I serve the Light, we fight against the Darkness and His forces."

"Well...that is certainly very...simple."

The man shrugs and continues.

"Long ago Darkness was defeated, but not destroyed.  It has become evident that He is finally returning.  Unfortunately the one I serve has not returned to us, her sacrifice being how we defeated the Darkness previously.  I seek to reunite some that I have fought alongside elsewhere, and enlist your help as well."

"And how exactly do I enter into all of this?  You say I am important somehow?"

"In truth, I do not know.  One of my people, a Seraph renowned for wisdom had a vision showing you fighting alongside myself and my friends and also showed this place.  That is how I found you.  If I knew more I would tell you but alas I do not.  Perhaps in time it will make more sense , but as I said, presently I fear we do not have much time available before the forces of Darkness begin to move once more.  Please, will you join with me and my people?"

She crosses her arms over her chest.

"You seem awfully trusting of someone you don't know.  That tells me you are either foolish, or desperate...or both."

She looks off to the side for a moment.

"That being said...I must say I am....intrigued.  Fine, I'll at least go with you for now.  We gotta head to the spaceport though, I'm not leaving my ship behind."

She turns and starts to head out of the alley and down the street, following some signs directing to the spaceport.  The stranger follows after briskly, moving in beside her.

"So...I suppose it would be appropriate for you to tell me your name, given you are so keen on me accompanying you."

"Oh...correct...my apologies.  I go by the name Jharm, and you are?"

"Oh, your seer only got my face and not my name I take it.  Very well, you can call me Velgeim...or more appropriately simply "Vee"."

"Vee it is then.  Is your vessel a large one?  Heavily armed or anything?"

"She is a very capable ship, has some guns on her but is not one might call a "warship" or anything like that."

Soon after they arrive at their destination, Vee gesturing at the ship in front of them with a hand.

"There she is, the Aisgeim, or "Frostgem."

The surface of the ship is a dark black, faint runes seem to be etched in various areas that seem to pulse a very soft blue.  As the woman approaches a ramp suddenly lowers from underneath the ship as if welcoming her onboard.  Her and Jharm head up the ramp and a few moments later the ship takes to the sky and flies off.

[Veldanya Venalla]

All of the Companions (except for Gulgrim) receive the following telepathic message, the voice of Jharm entering each of their minds.

My friends, I have need of your assistance at once.  Darkness is returning and my people can not face it fully on their own.  Time is of the essence and there is much I must see to.  I can explain everything in full once you arrive if you so choose.  My people are prepared to open entryways for you should you choose to accept.

Meanwhile, a different message reaches Gulgrim, though the voice is still that of Jharm

Warboss Gulgrim.  I have need of you and your forces.  I know you have little interest in helping others, but I can offer the....opportunity for violence and bloodshed.  A "right and proper Waagh" as you might call it I believe.  My people can open a portal for you to join us at once where I can explain in more detail.  Then should you choose to continue, Im sure your "boyz" can be brought in afterwards.
 

[Soul Reaver]

Hot, black blood spatters up Soul Reaver's arms as his sword falls yet again, cleaving another heavily-muscled form almost in half.  His entire body, from head toe, is utterly covered in it.

Over three days and nights he, Kitharsis and Phaerys have held the bridge.  Most of the bodies had fallen into the fast-moving river below, but those that remained were piled so high it was impossible for the maddened brutes to get anywhere near the defenders without first clawing their way over a veritable mountain of slick corpses.  Not that that stopped them from trying.

The king's army would have evacuated all the villages by this point and be prepared for their counterattack.  Soul Reaver has vowed they would have their three days, and as twilight began to fall, he was satisfied in the knowledge that he'd given them more than that.

As Blooddrinker continues its rhythmic, deadly work, Soul Reaver casts his mind back to the last few years.

After the Eye of Terror campaign, he had taken Phaerys and Kitharsis with him to the markets on Dinlete.  The bustling bazaars were a riot of colour, sight and sound.  Peddlars crouched on rugs or standing behind rickety wooden stalls sold everything imaginable under the innumerable suns.  It was a place where hulking reptilian humanoids rubbed shoulder-equivalents with environment suit-wearing masses of sentient tentacles.  Even warp travellers from distant dimensions would seek out this place.  Soul Reaver knew Kitharsis would find anything he wanted, and he hoped it would serve as both and education and a source of valuable information for Phaerys on the nature of the multiverse.

Once their business had concluded, Soul Reaver spent a brief time recuperating from the strains of his recent campaign, but he could not afford to rest too long.  The multiverse was infinite, and he was always needed somewhere.  From within the sanctuary of his Obsidian Island he consulted the Eye of Justice, and soon Soul Reaver and his entourage were travelling throughout the Planes once more.

Warlords and evil sorcerers fell.  Plagues were stopped.  Tyrants toppled and freedom was granted.  A world in its death-throes against an incursion from Inferno saw an unlikely saviour in a raven-haired, black-armoured warrior who forced the invading daemons to their knees with words alone, then cut them down with mechanical efficiency.

He had done good, he knew.  He had made a difference to the people he had saved.  As always, he tried hard not to think of all the suffering happening elsewhere, that he could have stopped, if he were there instead of here.

During these years, Kitharsis would have had an opportunity to test the new limits of his powers and adapt to his new way of being.  It must not have been easy for him to learn to live anew.

And Phaerys - he was an interesting one.  Though Soul Reaver had brought him along to help Phaerys learn about the multiverse and assist him on his quest to find his coven, it had also been an opportunity of Soul Reaver to study him in turn.  He was clearly an energy being of some kind, driven by logic and curiosity.  His desire to locate his coven was his current fundamental directive - morality, it seemed, did not feature largely within that equation, but at the same time he had no desire to cause harm or destruction for its own sake.  Soul Reaver couldn't help wondering how easily he might have been led astray had he met a less scrupulous band of warp travellers.

The sword falls, blood sprays, another brute gurgles its last.  The last rays of sunlight glint off Soul Reaver's brow as a sudden message reaches him.

My friends, I have need of your assistance at once.  Darkness is returning and my people can not face it fully on their own.  Time is of the essence and there is much I must see to.  I can explain everything in full once you arrive if you so choose.  My people are prepared to open entryways for you should you choose to accept.

Soul Reaver glances over to Phaerys and Kitharsis - from what he could tell, they had heard the message as well.

Jharm would not ask for help unless he needed it, and this was one companion he trusted to act in ways both honourable and just.

He had done enough here, the king's armies would be strong enough to finish things on their own.  He nods toward his two allies, and ensures they can hear the message he sends back to Jharm.

I will stand with you.

[Fallen Templar]

As Soul Reaver battled amid the front lines, a sphere of plasma arced overhead, landing amidst the next wave who were hoping to flank him. The projectile burst on impact and showered those unfortunate enough to be nearby. The luminant, superheated substance clung to its victims like tar as it melted flesh and steel alike.

Their incessant attempts to cross this bridge had left Phaerys somewhat bemused at this point. Thanks in part to the fortifications he had constructed, the oncoming hordes found little hope of breaching the defensive line, further compounded by how many had already died trying. Those who weren't hacked apart by Soul Reaver and Kitharsis were disintegrated from afar with the power of a blazing sun. Phaerys idly pondered who or what was directing these creatures' efforts, for them to willingly charge into certain doom. Even as he continued to eradicate them with silent, unnatural efficiency.

It had been a curious time indeed these past few years...

Soul Reaver had been quick to make good on his promise when he, Kitharsis and Phaerys departed through the portal together. Indeed, Dinlete turned out to be something of a godsend. So much to see, discover, understand. While Soul Reaver and Kitharsis rested from the ordeal they had endured, the tireless Ataran busied himself with furthering his research. Not a day went by without Phaerys leaving their accommodation in search for a new contact, anything that might turn up a new lead on his old compatriots.

He even proved to be a surprisingly adept haggler when bartering off unwanted fragments of exotic matter in exchange for arcane devices and lore on the metaphysical. In that time, Phaerys had greatly improved his understanding of Warp navigation, and through information gleaned from a number of other plane travellers, he finally had an idea of where to search for one of his fellow coven members. It was by no means an exact location – more like a sizeable list of probable dimensions – but it was a start.

The duo Phaerys had been travelling with were most intriguing specimens in and of themselves. Occasionally he probed them with questions but for the most part he was content to observe, as he did with many things. He had his suspicions of them at first. A fateful alliance of convenience in mid-battle was what saw their paths meet, after all. But as time passed, and their behavioural patterns had proven consistent enough to be trustworthy, Phaerys reconsidered the emergency escape protocol he had on standby and began to accept his position as the newest of the Companions.

Soul Reaver was something of an imposing presence in person, at first - the man wielded weapons and powers commonly found in the hands of far more inimical entities. But what caught the Ataran's attention was how he was so duty-bound to helping the helpless. In its importance, it was not unlike Phaerys' service to Xel-Atar. In the end, Phaerys concluded that the two of them were in some way not so different than appearances might indicate.

Kitharsis seemed to have been the more approachable of the two by comparison. His current condition had been yet another phenomenon Phaerys expressed interest in studying, even volunteering to run tests as he got used to his new state of being. And that was not all...

During their time in Dinlete, Kitharsis also took Phaerys up on that offer of personally fashioning some new equipment. Kitharsis' request was a modest one. A sword, and a set of armour that allowed for freedom of movement. Simple armaments for a humble warrior. Phaerys readily took to the task, and what he produced would have been considered quite remarkable even on the streets of Dinlete.

The armour appeared to be a fine mesh of carbon-black scales, over which larger metal plates of bronze-coloured alloy had been fitted to cover the vital areas. This alloy seemed to be the same material Phaerys' own armour was composed of, for the whole thing was lightweight, durable... and capable of surviving extreme heat that would see its wearer turned to ash. Fairly typical materials by Ataran standards, so it seemed.

As for the sword, this too was made of that same alloy. It was proportioned so that Kitharsis could comfortably wield it with one hand or two, and finely balanced with a degree of precision that only molecular manipulation might muster. For the most part, it was a fairly normal sword, but Phaerys had integrated a mechanism into the blade's edge so that it would flare up with molten heat... but only during the moment it was actually swung. The Ataran artificer neglected to say whether this was a safety feature or an issue with whatever power supply was contained within, but the end result was remarkable nonetheless – a reliable weapon that could cauterise flesh as easily as it sliced through armour. All in all, Phaerys had been quite satisfied with his work. Moreover, it enkindled a sense of pride within him to see Kitharsis treasure both armour and blade so.

Alas, the trio could not stay in Dinlete for too long. They each had their duties elsewhere to fulfill. Beyond the Spans Between, as Phaerys kept referring to it. And so his adventures with the Companions truly began. Just as his studies continued, in a sense. Sorcerous artefacts were obtained for later analysis. Techniques and manoeuvres were devised for combat conditions. A rare few enemies had the dubious honour of being dissected at the molecular level for rare compounds, all while still in the midst of battle.

Such was Phaerys' devotion to the purpose he was given by Xel-Atar.

As their current battle drew to a close, Phaerys felt a faint buzzing of psychic interference that resolved itself into a signal. A message. More specifically a call for aid from another companion. Looking to the others, Phaerys surmised from their reactions that both Soul Reaver and Kitharsis had also received this transmission. There was no questioning how they would answer it. Phaerys sent his own reply in short order:

Open the way.

[Kitharsis]

The markets of Dinlete were a wonder.  He was already feeling like a babe in the woods after The Separation.  Add in the coalescence of the multiverse in one marketplace, and the result was a nearly overwhelmed Kitharsis.  But it wasn't before long that he found a well fitting belt adorned with as many pouches as he could ever want. 

Another merchant was selling blank rune stones near identical to the ones he fashioned on his home world.  Trinkets, artifacts, even jelly candy soon lined the many pouches at his belt.

Last but not least, a tailor was able to fashion a sturdy cloak that actually fit.  He was in debt to Soul Reaver's coin.  A debt he was able to pay off quite rapidly.

On top of Soul Reaver's generosity, Phaerys followed through with his offer to construct him some equipment.  Kitharsis humbly requested a sword, and a set of light armor.  Phaerys responded by creating two marvels far surpassing anything Kitharsis was expecting. 

The sword was constructed from a bronze colored alloy, impeccably balanced.  It wasn't embellished, like a gaudy show piece.  But built like a proper weapon.  Its appearance hid a mechanism that heated to blade to molten temperatures, cauterizing and searing whatever it sliced through.  But only during a swing.

The armor was light, durable, and extremely heat resistant, mimicking Phaerys's own equipment.  Lightweight plates of bronze allow sit atop a black mesh underneath.  The combination of the two materials gave the perfect amount of protection, while still allowing freedom of movement.  Kitharsis dons it with pride, and is quite careful to not damage it.  If he can avoid it.

It may have been a simple gesture for Phaerys but it meant a great deal to Kitharsis, and he hopes to repay his new friend in kind some day.

The markets were but a prelude to the journey that Soul Reaver would soon take them on.  He was tested and tried, learning to cope without being attached to The Source, evil as it was.  He leaned heavily on the equipment he was able to procure at the markets.  Combined with his desert elemental powers, he was able to keep up with the others.  But not quite at his previous level.

His particular favorite destination was a lucky stop on an entire desert world, dotted with oasis's supporting the peoples living on it.  The entire planet would have heeded his call.  The conflict was resolved rather quickly, considering Kitharsis's involvement.

Oh but he could have stayed there and sunk into the sands and never returned.  It was invigorating, and he felt no guilt when he stalled their departure for a number of days while he communed with the desert.  Bolstering his strength and peace of mind. 

It was there that he discovered the power still within him.  Meters below the ground, enveloped in sand, Kitharsis found himself resonating with the desert like never before.  He felt invigorated, as a power flowed through his body.  Initially he believed it was the desert itself lending him its power.  But he found it radiating from within himself.  Indeed, the "spark" that he used to purify the darkness within him as a Tirthandara was still present.  Yet it was clearly no mere spark, but a mighty power of his own.  Having strained against the darkness for so long, it had grown into a substantial force in its own right. 

It was a welcome reunion.  He regained his full strength quickly, and was soon wading through battle akin to his old self.

More travels, battles, negotiations, and diversions.  Soul Reaver was relentless in his search for those in need.  More than once, Kitharsis thought to travel home to consult with The Shaman.  If nothing else but for an excuse to rest for a moment.  Yet each new destination was pressing.  Always a need for assistance, or a wrong that needed corrected.  He could hardly turn his back on those in need.



This constant stream of needs lead them here, holding position on a strategic bridge.  Kitharsis's chest heaved as he caught his breath for a moment.  Three days and nights they have held fast, deflecting a relentless horde of heavily muscled brutes.  Each of the three defenders was stained with sticky, black blood from the creatures.

Kitharsis swipes upward with his sword, and three amplified sandstone blades swipe upwards along with it.  The brute is sliced into pieces with body parts falling on either side of Kitharsis.  Summoning the sandstone blades was the most strenuous part, if he could even consider it strenuous anymore.  Maintaining and manipulating them was as easy as thought.

He returns his sword to neutral guard, preparing for the next brute to throw itself at him.  The sandstone blades hover at either side of him.  Specks of sand sprinkle the ground below where Kitharsis stands, a constant signature of his powers.

A sudden message from a familiar voice in his head.

My friends, I have need of your assistance at once.  Darkness is returning and my people can not face it fully on their own.  Time is of the essence and there is much I must see to.  I can explain everything in full once you arrive if you so choose.  My people are prepared to open entryways for you should you choose to accept.

A quick glance to Soul Reaver and Phaerys reveals they too have received the message from Jharm.  Indeed, Soul Reaver replies for all of them to hear.

I will stand with you.

Kitharsis shares the sentiment.  Their promise to the kingdom fulfilled, nothing held them from leaving to assist Jharm.

I may need a bath first, but you have my aid as well.

He responds, for the others to hear as well.

[Shadow Chorus]

Gulgrim was pulling the head off a Zoanthrope when he received Jharm's message. He stopped what he was doing and looked around to take in the sights, observing the carnage surrounding him as the angel made his request of the Warboss. Letting the Tyranid in his other hand flop limply to the ground, Gulgrim tossed the severed head of the creature over his shoulder as he turned around to face the Inquisitor Furael Faust and his Deathwatch retinue. He pulled Mork's Teef off his back and fired it blindly behind him into the horde of Tyranids as he spoke.

"Sorry ladz. I'd love ta stay an' keep krumpin' dese bugz wiv ya, but somefin' came up. Wot's dat fing you lot always sayin'? Duty calls? Somefin' like dat. Me boyz'll stick around a bit longer ta finish up dis scrap an' probly be along aftah me latah."

The Inquisitor raised an eyebrow at the Ork as he leveled his bolt pistol at a Tyranid warrior and laid it low with a hellfire round. "Really, Captain? Taking off before you've received your payment?" The Deathwatch space marines around him muttered something about not seeing the xenos filth off fast enough, but kept their focus on the Tyranid swarms around them.

"Yeah, sorry bout dat. Was really lookin' forward to da chance ta scrap wif yer best, too. But I'z been waitin' fer dis call fer a bit now. 'Sides, we'z both know ya didn' really wanna 'ave a go at me; ye'd just lose some o' yer boyz, an you 'umies can't afford ta spare 'em like we Orkz can." The warboss offered a sly grin and a wink with his biological eye, before he turned and shouted into the air "Alright ya sparkly git, open da way!"

Even while he waited for the angel to open his portal, he took a few last pot shots at oncoming swarms of creatures while his boys continued their mercenary action, reinforcing an Imperial Guard front against a Tyranid Hive Fleet at the employ of this Inquisitor who Gulgrim had worked with previously.

[Veldanya Venalla]

The Seraphim stands firm in the large circular room, a handful of Seraphs positioned around the area in a circular pattern.  One after the other he received the responses from the Companions, each indicating that they would honor his call for assistance.  Extending his arms to the side his voice rings out loudly

"You each know your focus.  Let us bring them forth at once!"

The seraphs around the room nod and begin to channel spells.  A few moments later portals manifest in front of each of them.

-------------------------Elsewhere----------------------------------------
Each Companion finds a portal manifest in front of them moments after expressing confirmation to the Seraphims request.  Upon entering the portal they would find themselves in a large circular room, occupied by a handful of angelic beings as well as Jharm.  He extends his arms out in a welcoming gesture briefly.

"Greetings my good friends.  I thank each of you for accepting my request for assistance.  That said, there is little time to waste."

That fast his demeanor changes from a jovial welcoming one to almost dour and concerned.  He gestures with his hands and from the center of the room the floor seems to separate and a rectangular pedestal rises up to about waist height.  Approaching the pedestal he beckons for his friends to approach.

"Greetings aside, there is little time to waste.  I have called for your aid to help and save not only my people but the entirety of this plane and perhaps universes beyond.  Should we fail here, I fear that the forces of Darkness will succeed in all of that."

He waves a gauntleted hand over the simple looking pedestal and suddenly a glowing image manifests.  It seems to show a large area of rolling hills, mountains and valleys in shimmering light.  Dotted amongst the terrain are large squares with two even larger squares located at either end of the display.

"Before you lays the general layout of the battlefield.  On one side the forces of Darkness reign supreme, and on the other we, the Seraphs, reside."

His hand shifts between pointing to the one side of the display and then over to the far end.

"To try and put everything very simply, the Darkness himself, the one responsible for creating the armies my people are right now fighting against, is returning.  A long time ago he was defeated by our Lady of Light but it cost her greatly and she vanished at the same time, seeming to escape from this plane with the intentino to return rejuvenated and ready.  That...has still not occured.  I had hoped while traveling with you all that I might happen upon where she had fled to but with no success.  As I mentioned before though, Darkness himself has managed to return.  This is a dangerous and concerning event.  Without the Lady of Light to strengthen and protect us, we alone would struggle to try and hold back Darkness and his armies.  Should he reach the Lightwell and corrupt it, we believe this entire plane would be lost and then nothing would be stopping Him from expanding beyond to other planes and universes, destroying all in His path.  Thus, I have called upon all of you to help us.  I believe with your might we can stand against Him and push him back for the time being."

As Jharm nears the end of his speech, from an area of shadow at the edge of the room, a tall slender woman seems to almost appear out of the darkness.  Her heels click softly over the stone flooring as she walks, her long dark coat rustling around her.  Her skin is almost a pure white color, at first glance one could almost think she was a Seraph if not for the fact that her eyes were normal looking, a deep blue color compared ot the glowing orbs of light that the Seraphs posses.  Her hair is pitch black and cut short and swept backwards.  Over her chest seems to be a metallic chestplate of sorts, much of it concealed by her long black leather coat.  Her legs clad in a simple pair of leather pants while a pair of thigh-high metallic boots cover her feet.  On her hips rest a pair of holsters, the butts of two guns visible within them though the coat hides much else beyond that.  Drawing closer to the table she smirks slightly, her gaze drifting over each of the Companions in turn.  Her lips, painted a dark shiny black color part after a moment.

"Well, so these are the Companions you spoke of then eh?"

She crosses her arms over her chest.

"Certainly an eccentric sort for sure, that greenskin one especially."

Jharm looks over his shoulder at the woman and gives a slight nod.

"Yes, these are them."

He turns his attention back to the others

"My friends, this is Velgeim Nachtwyrwyn.  I encountered her during our time apart and, like the rest of you, have found her abilities to be quite formidable and have thus called upon her assistance."

The woman smiles and gives a small curtsy.

"I suppose that is certainly one way to put it.

The Seraphim looks at the woman and seems to scowl slightly before turning his attention back to the glowing display on the pedestal.

"Anyways, back to the matter at hand.  What we are needing to do, and what I am needing all of your assistance with, is that we get from where we are now, to the, for lack of any other real designation, the Citadel of Darkness."

As he speaks he gestures at the one large square at the one end of the map and then at the second large square at the other end.

"This almost certainly sounds incredibly easy at first but trust me when I say it is far from it.  The entire area in between is a series of forts and defenses almost constantly fought over between the forces of Light and Darkness.  Then to actually gain access into th Citadel will almost certainly require the full force of Light to be present.  That means all of these forts in between must be claimed."

He gestures at 3 slightly smaller squares positioned throughout the middle of the shining landscape.

"While any sort of recon has been almost impossible for any beyond the first fort, we can almost certainly anticipate one of the leaders of Darkness' forces to be present either in or near it." 

He stands up, his expression dour.

"Basically we will be looking at a veritable slog as we must fight through enemy forces to each battlement, take them in turn before reaching the Citadel and then finally defeating Darkness itself.   This will give my people renewed time to either find our Lady of Light or for her to return on her own."

His gaze shifts between each of the companions as he speaks.

"I know this isnt quite the same as many of the situations we have involved ourselves in previously.  Trying to help save an oppressed people or defeat a clearly evil, malevolent force that we all know.  Darkness though IS such a force I promise you.  For ages now we have fought against it, and for the first time now I truly am unsure if we can succeed against it without your assistance.   I know I already basically asked it before, but now that you are more aware of what is at stake and is required, I ask again.  Will you stand with us?"

He then turns his gaze to Gulgrim before speaking further.

"Can I expect your...."boyz" to reliably fight alongside my people without gunning them down in the process?  Your peoples penchant for bloodshed can certainly be useful against the Darkness but I need your assurance it wont lead to slaughter of my own people when your troops get out of control.  If you can truly offer such guarantees then I ask that you call them in at once and...."

He hesitates for a moment as if he ponders about his following words.

"I give you full authorization to unleash your "Waagh", as you call it, upon our enemies."

[Soul Reaver]

Soul Reaver steps from the portal.  He inclines his head and gives a thin smile to acknowledge Jharm's welcome, then listens carefully as Jharm outlines the situation and introduces Veldanya.

Responding to her curtsy, he gives a half-bow, keeping his eyes on her as he does so, his expression unreadable.

"Pleased to make your acquaintance, my lady."

He then continues to listen in attentive silence as Jharm covers the rest of the situation.  When Jharm is finished, he crosses his arms and chews his lower lip thoughtfully for a moment before asking some questions.

"Forgive me, but I feel there is much as-yet unexplained.

Firstly, what of the enemies we face?  Who is Darkness and why does he seek to conquer your people?  And what manner of armies does he command?
And this Lady of Light... is there no clue that could help us locate her?  You sounded pretty certain that she was due to return - why?

Lastly, assuming we must defeat this Darkness to end the war... perhaps a stealthy assassination would work better than a frontal assault and would remove the head from the snake without the damage and loss of life that a frontal assault would cause.

Maybe your people have already considered or attempted this, but then again..."

He hesitates for a moment before giving a slight sigh and continuing, "...there are times where your people have shown a lack of flexibility in their choice of means."

He glances over at Gulgrim, then finishes speaking with Jharm.

"I suspect that you at least are currently ready to consider all options."

[Shadow Chorus]

Gulgrim rolls his shoulders and leans back as he is addressed, rising from his typical hunched stature to his full, terrifying height, though anyone who witnessed him in the battle against chaos would know that even this was a kunnin' deception compared to his potential true scale. When Gulgrim spoke, he did so in an articulate manner, his words clearly yet another display of his capacity for deceptively keen thought, though the shape of his maw and the sheer size of his teeth prevented the words from being completely free of the standard orkish mangling.

"Hehehe. It strikes me that you'z, along wiv just about every uvver fool 'oo's come across us, 'ave severely underestimated an' misunderstood wot exactly we orkz are."

Gulgrim strode over to the war table, his gargantuan steps even and well-spaced, as if the Ork was seemingly parading his physique for all present to take in, a paragon of strength and violence. Was this him simply showing off again, a side-effect of the space he found himself in and the Orks' unique capacity for adaptation, or something else? Hard to tell to any outsider.

"Orks are made for fightin', and for winnin'. We'z 'ave everyfin' we could need fer those goals built into our very essence." He holds up his massive green hand and emerald lightning crackles along his fingertips. "But da rules for wot is fightin', and wot is winnin', are set by da Boss in charge of da WAAAGH!!!" The Warboss clenched his fist, looking at the Seraphim with a toothy grin.

"An I'z the Avatar o' Gork and Mork, the great Green Godz o' Brutal Kunnin' an' Kunnin' Brutality. Dere ain't nobody who could challenge my status as da Boss save da prophet of da WAAAGH!!!, an' ol Ghazzy ain't nowhere near dis fight, so I've got no need ta krump his face ta prove I'z da one in charge."

Gulgrim seemed to be in his flow at this point, a big green preacher at the pulpit. "So When I'z say who we're fightin' an' who stands wiv us, da rules for what is Fightin' and what is Winnin' are set, an enforced down from me ta me Nobz ta me Boyz. An' you ladz look to 'ave made it real easy ta tell who's who in dis fight. So long as yer own gits stay outta the line of fire an' don't puff up their chests at me Boyz like they's lookin' to prove somefin', dey'll be fine. But when you'z question an Ork's prowess at da fight, it's a matter of somefin like your Honour bein' insulted, only fer us, it's da very core of who we are. So keep yer disparagin' o me Boyz to a minimum, else you'll 'ave a few border scraps ta contend wif. We'z violence made manifest, an' I fink all of you'z here can understand dat whether ya can call Violence good or bad in yer own non-orky estimashun is all about 'ow it's directed."

The Ork crosses his arms and glares down at the war table. "So. In the interest o' not disparagin' me boyz wiv a weak fight, tell me why it is dis fortress is too tough or too important for me Krooza ta flatten it from orbit. Like Spikey Boy Soul Reaver 'ere, I'z want ta know everyfin."

[Kitharsis]

Kitharsis dispels the floating swords as he sheathes his real one.  The sandstone crumbles and is whisked away by a warm gust of wind.  He steps through the portal, and is greeted by Jharm and his people.  Kitharsis replies to his greeting with a quick nod.

Jharm goes on to explain the reason for calling the Companions together.  At the mention of the Lightwell and the Darkness's intent to corrupt it, Kitharsis frowns.  It would not be difficult to draw a parallel between the Lightwell and the Tirthandara's source of power.  Having been on the receiving end of corruption, he cannot allow a similar fate to happen to Jharm's people.

A woman walks toward them from a shadowed section of the room.  Jharm introduces her, and after a brief exchange Veldanya offers a small curtsy.  Kitharsis bows his head and offers a small wave in response.

Their host goes on to explain why they were called here, and the odds his forces face without their help.  Soul Reaver returns with questions, and the offer of a stealth mission, while Gulgrim puffs up his chest and assures Jharm that his Orkz won't be an issue.  Unless Jharm wants them to be.  The Ork is so aggressive, its hard to tell his threats of violence from his offers to help.  Of course, as Orks go, they are most likely one in the same.

Kitharsis speaks up, "Given the Orkz involvement in The Eye, I think they've proven their ability for restraint when necessary.  I do wonder if there are any stealthy... gitz?"

He continues, "I also question if stealth is even an option at this point.  Given how formidable this Darkness is, they must have surveillance capabilities.  There are cloaking spells and devices, but we don't know what tricks they may have up their sleeves."

[Fallen Templar]

Phaerys calmly stepped through the portal, particularly intrigued by the feat of opening one right by where they stood, from across dimensions. On the other side, Jharm was there to greet them. The Ataran felt little about this man as they had only met very briefly once before, but Soul Reaver and Kitharsis held respect for him. That was enough for Phaerys to have some grasp of his character, and so he returned the greeting with a slight bow.

Of course, it was not for nothing that they were all gathered here. Jharm wasted no time in elaborating further on that, as well as explaining what they were up against. A matter of ensuring that this Darkness entity did not escape this dimension.

Soul Reaver still had a few further questions for Jharm, many of which had likewise crossed Phaerys' mind. And Gulgrim – whom Phaerys had also last seen on that ramshackle starship of his – proved to be more than the brash, brutish creature he appeared to be. The Ork's own forces would no doubt be a useful asset, too. The only question was whether they would be enough in the battles ahead of them.

When Phaerys found a moment to get a word in himself, he stepped forward to speak his piece. "I concur with Soul Reaver. A war of attrition would likely result in defeat, given the current disadvantage," he addressed Jharm. "Permit that I ask one additional question: what weapons and tactics have proven effective in the last engagement? If a diversionary attack is viable, perhaps it would allow for a separate assault behind enemy lines."

[Veldanya Venalla]

The Seraphim listens as each of the Companions speaks up in turn, a scowl briefly appearing on his face as Soul Reaver finishes speaking and then Gulgrim steps in.  Jharm watchs the massive Ork stomp over to the war table and gesture about before finishing and then Kitharsis and finally the strange newcomer who goes by the name Phaerys speak.  Jharm is about to respond to all of them when he is interrupted by a chuckle from Vee.  The woman smirks as she slips a hand into the inside of her coat and pulls out a small packet, producing a thin small cylinder and slips it in between her dark lips. Then with a flick of her fingers a tiny flame appears on the tip of her index finger and she uses it to light the end of cylinder and with a slight wave of her hand the flame goes out before she takes a drag on what is revealed to be a cigarette.

"Well I must say, certainly an interesting bunch."

Her dark blue eyes turn towards Gulgrim.

"Especially you."

She then seems to pause for a moment as if thinking before Jharm steps in once more.

"Interesting indeed. That aside..."

He turns to look at Soul Reaver first.

"What is Darkness?  Simple, He is the anathema of everything the Light is, the same can be said for his people, the Shaitan.  They seek to eliminate the Light, escape from this plane and conquer and destroy all they encounter. As for the Lady of Light, no there is no way to find her, certainly not at this time.  The last great battle between Light and Dark ended in the Lady destroying the form of Darkness but she sacrificed almost her entire self to do so.  We could sense a sliver of Her escape from the plane with a final message telling us she "would return to us when the time was right."  Then with Darkness defeated for the time, we withdrew back to here to defend against the forces of Darkness until her return.  It was some time after that that we discovered that somehow the barriers that seem to keep either side from leaving this plane seemed to have weakened slightly allowing small portals to the Warp.  It was with that knowledge that I departed to try and seek Her out while the others maintained vigilance against any attacks from the Shaitan or indications that He was returning.  Clearly my efforts failed as I soon realized just how limitless the Multiverse is but in that time I others, such as yourself Soul Reaver, and decided that unless the situation here changed I would join with the Companions."

He then turns and begins to gesture at the shimmering landscape on the table as he continues to speak.

"As far as any sort of stealthy attack or assassination.  That was one of the first suggestions I made when we realized the truth that He was once more growing in power and drawing closer to coming back.  To put it simply, its impossible.  My decision to offer the support of the Seraphs to Camerons attack in the Eye of Terror turned out to be a poor decision.  It cost us many Seraphs, leaving our defenses here greatly weakened.  It was soon after this that the Shaitan began to move upon our defenses.  This was our first indication that He must be returning for there would be little other reason to attack otherwise.  Unfortunately due to our greatly diminished ranks, the Shaitan claimed victory after victory until we found ourselves where we are now.  With them in possession of the forts I mentioned earlier, it is all we can do to hold them where we are, let alone try to advance and retake lost ground.  That leaves everything from this first fort and beyond firmly in the hands of the forces of Darkness, and crystals erected within prevent my people from creating portals past their location, this basically prevents any sort of surprise attack to their rear while a nearby crystal remains active. "

He then turns back to Soul Reaver and that scowl flashes across his face once more briefly.

"So yes Soul Reaver, we thought about much of that.  I am unaware as to where your view of my people being...inflexible comes from given that outside of their arrival in the Eye of Terror, they have never encountered any races beyond the Shaitan, and you all are the first beings to ever set foot in this plane."

He turns back to the map as he moves on to respond to Gulgrims inquiries.

"In truth Gulgrim, I couldn't really say.  In case it is not evident, outside of winged Seraphs, there are no sort of aerial craft or creatures we possess, the Shaitan are similar in that regard to us and so at first glance I would say nothing is stopping you.  However, both sides utilize large crystals to cut down any winged attackers should they get too close and there are many of them situated on the walls of His fortress.  I am certain they would target your vessel should  you attempt to approach.  Can your krooza survive the attacks?  I cant truthfully give an answer to that either way but given that He is returning I have little doubt that he would direct his own powers through the crystals, making them far more powerful and deadly then they normal might be, as well as protect the walls against projectiles.  In truth i believe your air power would be of much better use at the front lines.  With its destructive might from above, as well as your Boyz fighting alongside my people we can push back the Shaitan, retake the forts and with the combined forces keeping the Shaitan occupied, we can directly invade the fortress and destroy the physical form of Darkness, preventing His return."

Jharm looks over to Phaerys.

"As for what weapons and tactics worked against them.  First and foremost keep in mind the last time He was defeated, our Lady was present.  The battles, and the war itself was far more...equal I suppose you could say.  Steel and magic back and forth, after many years I would say it came down to there were more Seraphs then Shaitan present, leading to basically the opposite of what we are in now.  It was soon after that that Light and Darkness faced off against each other and well, I already explained what happened there.  The presence of the Companions, and Gulgrims Orkish hordes I believe will give us the strength needed to directly assault the forts, replace the crystals with our own and subsequently assist with pushing the front line back and closer to Him."

The Seraphims eyes suddenly seem to glow a bit brighter before he quickly turns back to look at the war table.

"Wait a minute.  That could work perhaps."

He looks up and his gaze shifts between each of the Companions.

"A surgical strike on each fort.  Gulgrims forces providing air and ground support while Vee flies us in on her ship.  We gain access to the fort, fight our way through and destroy the Crystal.  Then I can create a portal to start bringing forces through to defend the fort, not only cutting off the Shaiton in the area from receiving any close reinforcements, but allow my own people to potentially attack from relatively behind.  There is risk involved though.  Basically being dropped into the middle of the Shaiton forces, taking and holding the fort until enough of my own people can arrive to defend it, and then move to the next one.  As I said before, I have little doubt that we will only face the regular forces of the Shaiton within those walls.  They most assuredly will have elite troops within and perhaps even one of their leaders, especially after we take the first fort."

Vee perks up at this suggestion, taking a a long drag on her cigarette and exhaling.

"Wait a minute, you want me to fly us in that close?  Didn't you say earlier that those places have crystals designed to take down winged attackers and likely would be used to target any ships?"

"Yes, but Gulgrims aerial forces can provide cover as well as much more dangerous targets as they can not only likely destroy those same crystals, but also will most certainly be raining death down on the Shaiton forces below.  I cant exactly say how durable those crystals are when matched against starship weaponry.  Both sides utilize siege weaponry and can eventually destroy the crystals but it was never a quick or easy thing to do while they were also returning fire.  I can't say how the strength of starship weaponry will fare against them."

The woman takes another pull on her cig.

"Well I suppose you are right, certainly sounds risky...but I'll be damned if I let some stupid crystals compete with my piloting skills or the prowess of the Aisgeim.  Besides, given the appearance and rousing speech of our green chum here, something tells me these um...."Kroozas" can not only take a punch but give 'em in return."

Jharm nods and turns his attention back to the others.

"There we have it, Gulgrims Orkz can join with my people on the frontline and do what they do best, while we all, alongside the Orkish armada and the Aisgeim, strike and take possession of each fort, holding it until reinforcements arrive and then we move on."

He looks around, waiting for the Companions responses to not only the answers he provided but the plan now submitted before them.

[Kitharsis]

Kitharsis rubs his chin as Jharm considers everyone’s questions. It appears that numbers are the problem. Combined with a large amount of the Seraphs leaving to assist with The Eye, they’ve now found themselves at a serious disadvantage.

Thoughts of The Eye still bring bitter memories. Kirtharsis knows it wasn’t fully his doing, the attack on the Companions and the Orkz, but he still felt guilty for it occurring.

Their numbers have dwindled since then also. Danyael has departed. And he hasn’t head of whatever happened to Cameron.

Anxious, he adjusts one of the many belts on his hips as Jharm continues his briefing. It seems that with the addition of Gulgrim and his Orkz, plus the Companions, there may be a plan of attack in their favor.

Veldanya would be ferrying them across the battlefield directly to one of these forts. She seems capable enough, but unproven. His own ship is sitting idly in orbit outside his home world. But the trip there and back would spend precious time. Let alone the effort it would take to summon enough crew mates to properly pilot the craft.

He clears his throat before speaking. “Jharm, what sort of environment are these forts located in? Forest? Plains? Perhaps, a desert?” He says the last hopefully.

“Either way, this is a solid plan. If Veldanya can fly as well as she puts on, we should be able to pierce through the Darkness’ defenses while Gulgrim and his boyz cause a ruckus.”

“The only other question I have is when do we get started?” 

[Soul Reaver]

Soul Reaver listens carefully to Jharm's response.

He does not reply to Jharm's visible irritation at his assumption on the Seraph's nature.  Soul Reaver's assessment had not been made in a vaccuum of course - what he had seen of their combat tactics had suggested to him a rigid, orderly martial code, and from what he knew of similar beings he believed that they might have been reluctant to use or possibly even consider more 'underhanded' methods like assassination.

Nor was he surprised that Jharm may have recommended such a course of action, as he knew Jharm had travelled and seen enough of the multiverse to see the necessity of such actions for the greater good.  He also would not have been surprised if Jharm's higher-ranking but less wordly peers had vetoeed his idea, which might explain why Jharm now seemed to so strongly yet without elaboration insist that such an approach was 'impossible'.  But he keeps these thoughts to himself.  Whether he was right or wrong, he would only upset his companion if he presses the matter, without doing any good.

He does, however, take the declaration that Jharm's people are not inflexible at face value enough to make his next suggestion.

"If numbers are an issue... how would you feel if I summoned support from Inferno?  Their number will necessarily remain limited and they could not operate too far from me, but they could lend further support for breaking into the Citadels.

I assure you that they will be under my control."

[Fallen Templar]

Like the other Companions, Phaerys intently listened to Jharm's responses to the panoply of questions that were thrown at him. There were no shortage of insights to be gleaned, though Phaerys had further questions on certain matters, most prominently the nature of both the Darkness and the Light within this dimension.

Jharm's summary of the last war against this Darkness presented to Phaerys a picture of symmetrical warfare. Only weight of numbers had been the deciding factor. And while the Ataran made no claims to being an expert in strategic warfare, the fact that the Companions were the first extradimensional visitors here gave them an edge. These... Shaitan would have no knowledge of their capabilities. Combined with the use of rapid assault and air superiority... perhaps it could make up for the thinned ranks among the Seraphs.

After Kitharsis and Soul Reaver had each spoken, Phaerys added, "I would also request additional information on the enemy. What manner of creatures are the Shaitan? What vulnerabilities do your people know of that we may exploit?" Inwardly, he considered what effect his elemental sorcery might have against these beings. How susceptible might they be to intense heat and plasma?

"The element of surprise will also serve to our advantage. We are unknown variables in this conflict, and must be prepared to keep the enemy off guard for as long as possible. For my part, with sufficient time and raw matter I could create fortifications or other constructs to bolster our attack once we are inside."

[Shadow Chorus]

Gulgrim scratches his chin during the back and forth, observing the war table analytically while others ask for information or offer suggestions. He almost appears to be doing calculations, judging how many of his own boyz he will need and how quickly he can get them. Then, seemingly having decided he doesn't have enough time to waste, Gulgrim steps away from the table a few paces, turning his back to the proceedings, and raises his Cybork arm to the sky. The surface above the wrist of the arm began to open, a copper rod extending upward and crackling with green lightning as his Cybork eye began to glow brighter.

"If you'z could 'elp me out wif some coordinates, dis'll be a lot easier." The Warboss calls over his shoulder at Jharm as the lightning begins to dance across his body, becoming somewhat more active as time went on. "I've gotta triangulate no less den three krooza-scale ships, includin' the Infinite WAAAGH!!!, as well as a 'ole host uv smaller escorts, an' me big battleship, da Overkrump. Dat's my standard small planet-krumpin fleet, an' it ain't easy ta bring it all in 'cross dimensional lines when I'z don't know where da Zog I am."

It was clear he was trying anyway, as the copper rod extending from his arm began to spin, and the lightning began to emit in regular pulses, as if probing the dimensional topography.

[Veldanya Venalla]

Once more the Seraphims gaze shifts between each Companion as they respond in turn, with Gulgrim being the final one, the Ork wasting no time as he appears to begin summoning in his forces.  Gazing over at the Seraphs around the room he nods and gestures toward Gulgrim with his hand as he turns his attention back to the others.  The Seraphs close their eyes and begin to focus, each glowing softly as they extend a hand towards the Warboss, aiding him in his efforts.

"While I am loathe to rely on even darker forces for assistance, my previous decisions have left little alternative.  You can bring some of them in Lord Reaver."

He turns to Phaerys.

"The Shaitan are similar to my people, in a way.  While my people are composed of Light and wield it effortlessly, the Shaitan are composed of Darkness and wield it as such.  Some of their number, especially the leaders, are capable of unleashing horrible attack composing of poisonous blasts.  As for weaknesses well, in truth I could not really say.  My people do not wield fire, or lightning or anything such as that and so up til now there has been no way to know.  That said I have little doubt that any sort of shadow, or darkness offense and perhaps poisonous will have little effect on them.  As for your offer of building fortifications, that will be appreciated and will likely be useful once we take each of the forts to help in protecting it afterwards."

His gaze then shifts over to Kitharsis.

"As for environment, the best description I feel I could give is "wasteland".  An eternity of war has taken its toll on the land between where each side dwells. Then to answer your question of "when" well, as soon as Gulgrim and Soul are finished bringing in their forces, and if no one has any other questions, then I would say immediately after that.  While my people are holding the line so far, every moment we waste means more time for Darkness himself to grow in power and should he fully return the fight will be even more dire."

[Soul Reaver]

Soul Reaver nods at Jharm and pays close attention to the description of his foes-to-be.

"Summoning the forces of Inferno is best done as close to the battlefield as possible to minimize the chances of... unsanctioned activity.  Doing so will necessitate opening a large Warp Gate for a time, which I understand is impossible once we are too close to the crystals.

I will bring in Infero's forces once we are as close as we can get either to the front lines or to the crystal's maximum effective range, whichever comes first - as a Warp Traveller, I assume I will be able to sense the latter?"

He shifts one of his pauldrons slightly.

"In any case, I stand ready."

[Fallen Templar]

Jharm's description of the Shaitan was most appreciated. That they had not experienced many incendiary attacks from the Seraphs was another point in Phaerys' favour. Likewise, this poison some of them were capable of using seemed unlikely to affect his complete lack of an organic physiology. For his part, the Ataran felt confident that he would hold his own in the coming war.

With the expectation that the Companions would be up against heavy fortifications, Phaerys felt the need to prepare accordingly. Disassembling matter at will was all well and good, but sometimes the situation called for something more... expedient. And more likely to take down a few enemy troops along with it.

Satisfied that he had enough spare matter on hand for the moment, Phaerys began to create a small seismic bomb, intended for use as a breaching charge. His hands spun glowing metallic threads into being like a spider weaving a web. The process would only take a couple of minutes or so to complete, after which he would stow the silvery, disc-shaped explosive into a dimensional compartment and start work on a second.

"If we are to depart immediately, then these will have to suffice for the moment," he stated. "Otherwise, I am also prepared."