The remnants of the Kree fleet fled toward their homeworld, Hala, like a startled school of fish.
The Blood Angels followed close behind, bearing an unquestionable will to purge, their forces arriving at the outskirts of the Hala system.
Just as the final assault was about to begin, a small, lavishly decorated diplomatic vessel bearing the emblem of the Shi'ar Empire passed through the edge of the standoff and sent an urgent communication request to the Blood Angels fleet.
"Mother," Dante's voice came through the comms, "a fleet claiming to be a Shi'ar Imperial delegation has requested a conversation. They claim to represent the Shi'ar Empress and wish to mediate diplomatically."
Sanguinius raised an eyebrow slightly, a trace of barely perceptible interest flashing through her eyes.
She had already seen the name Shi'ar Empire in the databases of the Kree warships. It was an interstellar civilization as renowned as the Kree Empire.
Its intentions in appearing at this moment were self-evident.
"Allow them aboard for a face-to-face discussion." Sanguinius's voice remained calm. "Let me hear what they have to say."
Having received permission to board, the diplomatic vessel slowly approached and docked in the flagship's hangar.
A group of Shi'ar delegation members walked into the flagship's bridge under the cold gazes of the Blood Angels honor guard, their steps somewhat stiff.
The lead envoy, Kasa Roer, wore a feathered crown and elaborate formal attire. He tried hard to maintain the bearing of an emissary from an advanced civilization, but when he saw the incomparably beautiful figure seated upon the throne, radiating invisible pressure, his breath still caught.
The attendants behind him lowered their heads even further, not daring to meet her gaze.
"Greetings, mighty Legion commander." Kasa Roer bowed deeply. "I am Kasa Roer, special envoy of the Shi'ar Empire's