69 Preparations

Cutting through the azure expanse of Faradras was a vessel of alien design, its sleek and sharp contours reminiscent of a blade crafted with unparalleled precision, casting glimmers of light across its surface. Its seamless integration into the cerulean backdrop rendered it elusive to the casual observer.

Compounding the difficulty of detection was the ship's colour scheme – a blend of teal and blue – identical to that favoured by the Craftworld Mymeara.

Within the vessel, three Aeldari from the aforementioned Craftworld occupied the space, their expressions a mix of curiosity, concern, and profound weariness.

At the helm was Irelene, her gaze darting between the myriad streams of data flashing across the console before her. Behind her, Urocain and Anáeth stood sentinel, their eyes fixed upon the distant speck that marked the location of the space station.

'We had come to an agreement between our races, and the training was scheduled for later today. What could possibly be the reason for him to call us this urgently?' Urocain pondered, his mind swirling with intrigue as he searched for a plausible explanation.

Meanwhile, Anáeth's thoughts veered in a different direction altogether. 'I can't believe that the Path has led us to such lost of emotions and experiences. Why didn't they inform us of all the things we would be missing?' The sheer disbelief she experienced from the ongoing interactions with humans, despite some displaying overt hostility, had shattered her expectations and perceptions of life.

'They can freely express themselves, manifest their emotions, pursue their desires without... without being bound like me.' Her fist tightened around her clothing as she struggled to maintain composure in the presence of her kin, yet her thoughts continued to spiral around the same troubling issue.

In the humans on this planet, she found something she had never realized she desperately sought: freedom.

With a deep sigh, she cast a fleeting glance towards the warlock, her thoughts echoing in her mind, 'It matters little, I suppose. We're here for a purpose, to fulfill a mission and safeguard the survival of our home. Just focus on the mission, Anáeth, that's all that matters!' If she could, she would have slapped her face with both hands to emphasize the urgency of her inner directive.

Yet beneath the surface, a tumultuous storm of conflicting emotions brewed within her.

"After we finish everything with Bann, will we be returning to the humans?" Her melodious voice, a soothing balm to those who heard it, resonated through the cockpit as she directed her question to Urocain.

Shifting his gaze towards her, Urocain nodded in affirmation as he replied, "Indeed we shall. I sense that what we're accomplishing with the humans here will prove vital in the future, though the full extent of its significance remains to be seen." A faint smile graced his lips as he spoke.

His eyes then drifted towards the vast expanse of the void, their journey carrying them beyond the confines of the planet's atmosphere. "We will remain on this planet for a few more nights until I return to the Craftworld to deliver the news and ascertain what further actions are required from us to strengthen our alliance with the Saiyans." The memory of the Ozaru transformation lingered in Urocain's mind, which was still freshly marked within the deeps of his head.

And it was something that needed to be conveyed to Farseer Naer-Lyoc. 'His insights and visions have truly proven effective. With allies as formidable as these, we might stand a chance to save our race and embark on a new beginning,' Urocain reflected inwardly. A flicker of hope ignited within his heart, casting a renewed sense of determination that gleamed in his eyes.

Throughout his time and travels, he had witnessed the decadence of his people and the staggering loss of life. Yet, for the first time, he felt a glimmer of optimism, sensing that greater things lay ahead. Positioned alongside the Saiyans, he anticipated playing a pivotal role in shaping the future.

Though their journey had just begun, and they had endured significant setbacks, the Saiyans embodied hope and power incarnate, manifested in flesh and bone. Witnessing them soar through the skies, effortlessly dispatching threats like the Tyranids, stirred something deep within even the most apathetic observer.

'I've never been passionate about art like some of my fellow brethren, but now I feel compelled to explore the Path later on to capture what I witnessed that day,' Urocain reflected inwardly. The memory of Bann, bathed in the sunset with the winds tousling his mane, overlooking the saved Redentia below him, was something he believed many would cherish to behold.

Even the Aeldari would have yearned for a saviour like him.

"There are only two ships remaining outside the station now. It seems the humans here haven't had it easy," remarked Irelene, her voice cutting through Urocain's reverie with a chill as she scrutinized the sorry state of the frigate and its escort.

Though the fires had been extinguished from the massive metal hulls, the scars left behind by the battle were visible, and repairs were underway. Large sections ravaged by acid were now being tended to by a small army of servitors moving about the ships.

"It's surprising that only two managed to survive. But considering how rudimentary and sturdy those vessels are, it's understandable," Urocain remarked with a slight nod of his head.

As the small craft closed the distance, it didn't take long before Irelene began maneuvering the spacecraft into one of the available hangar bays.

Donning their helmets, except for Anáeth who didn't have one, they made their way towards the spacecraft's doors as the hangar bay pressurised once again.

Navigating through the dimly illuminated hangar, they soon arrived at the door leading to the labyrinthine corridors of the space station. There, they were immediately greeted by a throng of people bustling about, their wary and unwelcoming stares fixed upon the Eldar trio.

Unperturbed by the crew's scrutiny, they strode with pride and confidence towards the Royal Chamber, where they knew Bann was likely awaiting them.

'Poor souls,' Anáeth thought to herself as she observed yet another pair of servitors. Her keen eyes discerned what was likely the remnants of what once was before it became what it was today.

Spotting two guards flanking the ample double doors of regal design, likely positioned to prevent unauthorized entry into the chamber and save them from the person inside, they watched as the doors slowly swung open, revealing the figure seated upon the throne of the station.

Beside him, Augusta stood with a blush adorning her face, her hands clasped together in front of her. She appeared to be a close aide to Bann, who sat with a commanding presence upon the intricately carved and imposing throne.

In an attempt to convey their respect and manners, the trio of Eldar began to bow their heads slightly, only to be interrupted by Bann's brusque words. "Leave the formalities aside. I need to speak with you all urgently," he commanded, gesturing with his hands for the doors to be closed with a wave of telekinetic force. "Tell me, how feasible is it for you to bring a large ship to this system and transport me to a planet?"

Bann's words and gaze were charged with intensity, his demeanor bordering on frenzy. To Urocain and Irelene, it seemed as though he were poised to take flight at any moment to fulfill whatever urgent task lay before him.

After a moment of thoughtful consideration, Urocain responded cautiously, "I cannot make any promises, not because I distrust you, but because such matters involve more than just us. Before we proceed, I would need to know specifics, such as the size of the ship you require." He spoke with a patient smile, mindful of the gravity of the situation.

As Bann released a deep sigh, the tension seemed to dissipate from his muscles, his eyes momentarily closing. 'What could be troubling him to require such a concerted effort to calm himself?' Irelene pondered, observing the Saiyan's uncharacteristic display of emotion.

Yet she wasn't left wondering for long. As Bann opened his onyx eyes once again, he began, "I need a ship large enough to transport people to a planet. Tyranids are attacking an Imperium world, and I intend to demonstrate our strength while also ridding ourselves of some... undesirable individuals from here." The wry smile on his face conveyed his meaning to the four individuals in the room.

Urocain's expression darkened at Bann's response, particularly at the conclusion he had reached. "You're not seriously considering allowing those humans to board this ship, are you? Do you realize how reckless and perilous that could be?" He wasn't questioning Bann's intentions, but rather the practicality of persuading humans to participate without causing problems.

Dismissively waving his hand at Urocain's concerns, Bann replied, "You needn't worry about that. I will be accompanying the voyage, and I will ensure that no one dares to cause trouble for you. Just see to it that we acquire this large ship."

Seeing that his words were unlikely to sway the Saiyan's decision, Urocain released a deep sigh and nodded reluctantly, his expression betraying his inner reservations. Bann's grin widened at Urocain's acquiescence as he exclaimed, "Good! Now that's settled, I'll inform the others to prepare and determine who will accompany me. And as for you, my friend," he turned his gaze towards Urocain, "After this little excursion, we'll be meeting with your people on that Exodite world, so let's ensure we expedite matters!"

PLAH

"iiip~!" With a loud slap, Bann's energetic demeanor filled the room as he raised to his feet, playfully tapping Augusta's backside. His exuberance contagious, he moved towards the door, checking his scouter as he went with a large grin over his face.

Meanwhile, the Aeldari remained frozen in place, their reactions varying. Urocain wore a wry smile, Irelene frowned disapprovingly at Bann's actions, a blush threatening to surface on her cheeks. Anáeth's gaze remained intense as she stared at the Acolyte, who made a hasty exit behind Bann, visibly flustered.

"He truly is a brutish man. Not only does he lack the etiquette and decorum befitting his position, but he also shamelessly indulges in debauchery in front of his allies!" Irelene exclaimed, a hint of scandal in her tone as she attempted to mask her embarrassment with indignation.

"But isn't it intriguing, Irelene? I wonder what it's like..." Anáeth muttered to herself, while Irelene's eyes widened in surprise as she heard Anáeth contemplating Bann's actions.

"Do not delve further down that path, Anáeth. It will only lead to trouble," Urocain interjected sharply, his warning tone piercing the air as he fixed his gaze on the healer. It was better to err on the side of caution.

He then turned to Irelene, his gaze steady as he addressed her, "And warrior, we are not in a position to judge others. All I saw was a man who felt comfortable enough in our presence to express his emotions and behave as he did. Let us now focus on the task at hand, for time is of the essence." With those words, resonating with the remnants of his wisdom, Urocain strode towards the door once more.

Anáeth and Irelene followed closely behind, their minds troubled and conflicted. Both Aeldari females grappled with the clash between their Asuryani upbringing and the direct, simple-minded nature of the Saiyans. Their thoughts swirled with a myriad of emotions, akin to a fine wine maturing with time.

But for now, preparations needed to be made.

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