Seizing Control

Laman's arrival left the Guardians and Aeldari Rangers somewhat overwhelmed. A mighty Warlock had actually volunteered to save them.

"Pull the defensive line inward. These monkeys are advancing into the Blackstone Fortress. We must stop them there," Laman said softly.

"If we want to restore our empire, we need this vessel beneath our feet, Vaul's Talisman."

"Whatever means those monkeys used to learn of this place, we cannot let them return alive."

With that, Laman vanished into the darkness once more.

"These damned Xenos scum! Why are they everywhere?" Chapter Master William Theras growled furiously, wrenching his Power Sword from an Aeldari warrior's chest.

The blue energy field died out, and thick, inhuman blood slid down the blade. Several elaborately adorned Aeldari corpses already lay at his feet.

Company Captain Isas silently returned his fearsome Disruption Field greatsword to the scabbard on his back with a soft click.

His gaze swept across the battlefield from beneath his hood. His voice remained cold, though it carried a faint note of agreement. "This is nothing unusual, Brother Seras. They are a swarm of flies we can never rid ourselves of, always appearing at the most critical moment to steal the fruits of our victory."

Seras irritably flicked the blood from his sword, then turned toward Lorgar, who had stood silently observing. "Father, we just received word that three more reconnaissance squads sent deep into the flanks have lost contact. We fear they have all been killed. Aeldari ambushes, every one."

Lorgar withdrew his penetrating gaze from the distant, shadowed passage. His expression betrayed neither pleasure nor anger as he nodded calmly. "Understood."

"Pass the order down. Everyone is to tighten formation. No more splitting up. This fortress is more dangerous than we imagined—and more popular."

His gaze returned to the depths