Dorn's voice was as cold and resolute as the sword in his hand, carrying unquestionable authority.
His battered yet still unbowed frame, and the fires of vengeance burning in his eyes, instantly placed Ollanius Persson's party under immense pressure.
Litu and Loken shifted their footing almost instinctively, preparing to defend themselves.
In this bizarre environment, any being that appeared without warning warranted caution.
But Loken quickly lowered his guard and saluted Dorn.
"Garviel Loken, reporting for duty, Lord Dorn."
"Loken?"
By the lightning in the sky, Dorn made out the grey-green Power Armour of the Luna Wolves.
"What exactly is this place? Are there any other friendly forces here?"
Loken looked around, then answered Dorn's questions with some helplessness.
"My lord, I don't know either. As for friendly forces..."
"Only them."
Dorn fell silent for a moment, his gaze returning to the others.
"Who are these people?"
Dorn could sense the psychic fluctuations emanating from Aktea and John. His attitude toward such individuals was complicated.
Loken tried to recount everything he had witnessed to Dorn.
Including Ollanius Persson berating the Emperor.
Dorn found that rather difficult to believe.
But for now, he chose to trust him.
While they were talking, Ollanius Persson spoke up.
"Aktea, show me the way. This battle is crucial. I should be at His side. I have to go."
His conversation with the Emperor had also given Ollanius Persson direction. Although the Emperor did not want him to continue, Ollanius Persson knew full well that he should.
His words immediately told Aktea what he intended.
"You've decided?"
"Yes. I persuaded Him to give up His power, but I couldn't give Him any hope of victory. By any measure, I should be at His side. You know, I was the first Warmaster."
Under Dorn's astonished gaze, a