章 74: A Powerful Embassor

[AIX-167 System, Ultima Segmentum, 991-M41]

After relocating their meeting to a more welcoming and comfortable environment, Bann found himself immersed in the sheer beauty and tranquility of life within one of the Craftworlds. It was akin to stepping into a utopia—a place where peace and harmony reigned supreme.

As he wandered through the serene surroundings, Bann couldn't help but be captivated by the myriad thoughts swirling in his mind. The gazes of passers-by held a mixture of intrigue, curiosity, and apprehension, yet he allowed himself to be swept away by the subtle power play orchestrated by the Farseers as they guided him through the magnificence of their home.

The landscape was a unique blend of natural beauty and meticulous craftsmanship, with vibrant colours and fantastical imagery casting shadows upon carefully adorned rocky paths. Intricately carved fences lined the walkways, serving as masterpieces of Aeldari craftsmanship and a testament to their dedication to enhancing their surroundings.

Throughout the landscape, figures and statues dotted the path, while hundreds of Asuryani practitioners engaged in peaceful meditation, each following their respective Paths. Above them, the sky shimmered with its own radiant light, adding to the ethereal atmosphere of the Craftworld.

With each passing moment, Bann felt his breath taken away by the breathtaking beauty that surrounded him within the Craftworld. Time seemed to pass in a blur as they made their way through the mesmerizing scenery, until they finally arrived at a wall-less structure crafted with sleek elegance.

The pillars, adorned with an ivory hue, bore intricate inscriptions in the ancient Aeldari language, depicting myths of old. As they stepped onto the floor, Bann's gaze was drawn to the image deeply etched into its surface—an avatar, clad in a brilliant mix of hues ranging from soft grays to onyx, blues, and opals. Above them, the roof stretched like a dome, adorned with vivid paintings depicting the story of unknown warriors, guided by the avatar's hand as they faced their foes.

The space was vast, welcoming, and grandiose, with the three Farseers moving with elegant grace towards their predetermined positions. Meanwhile, the guards positioned themselves around them in a carefully planned formation, ready to ensure the safety and security of their leaders.

As the companions of the Aeldari gathered around the three Farseers, their eyes lingered on Bann with deep interest, studying his every move.

Noticing the four cushions laid out on the floor, each large enough to accommodate one person, they made their way towards them and took their seats. Bann sat with both legs sprawled to the side, his hands folded in front of his chest.

His muscular thighs, reminiscent of the torso of a nearby guard, exuded strength as he sat before the Farseers. The Aeldari observed him intently, taking in his visage with keen interest.

Meanwhile, the Aeldari trio that accompanied Bann displayed a higher level of etiquette and respect towards the figures seated in front of them. Their gestures and actions spoke volumes, earning approving nods from the witnesses gathered in the room.

The air hung heavy with a tense silence as each side measured the other. Bann's posture radiated confidence and calmness, unfazed by the subtle actions taken by the Farseers to unsettle him.

Though not particularly fond of power plays and politics, Bann found himself unaffected by them, instead appreciating the intricacies of others' manipulations. In the face of power, might was the only language that truly resonated.

Breaking the stillness, the sharp and throaty voice of Farseer Naer-Lyoc echoed through the room, signalling the start of the conversation. "Now that we have attained the rightful vantage to converse on such matters, pray enlighten us: what dire urgency compels your presence this day?" His gaze then shifted towards Urocain as he posed the final inquiry, "And what prompted your omission of forewarning?"

Although Urocain felt a wry smile tugging at his lips, he maintained a stoic expression as he spoke, "It was an errant folly on my part, Farseer, one for which I humbly apologize and pledge shall not recur."

His words seemed to have little effect on the three figures before him, yet he pressed on nonetheless. "We have convened this day with the intent of securing a transport vessel for our esteemed comrade here. Their world, beset by the insidious Far Ranging Hunger, suffered a temporary setback, and they seek—"

Urocain's speech was abruptly halted by a gesture from Bann's hand. With a nod of acknowledgment to Urocain, Bann interjected, "I am here to request your aid, merely for transportation to a specific location. While we possess the means, we have yet to construct our ships and journey into the stars."

Though unintended, due to the peculiarities of the Aeldari language, Bann's words flowed like a melodic song. Yet the intonation, much like his presence, carried a commanding and overbearing resonance.

A subtle detail that did not escape the notice of those present—an uncanny fluency in the Aeldari language exhibited by the clear xenos speaker. While the use of Aeldari words was often unnecessary, witnessing the stark contrast in Bann's linguistic proficiency proved intriguing for some and drew the utmost attention of others.

"Forgive me if I err, but did you not arrive upon our home aboard one of our vessels already? What further acquisition do you seek?" Naer-Lyoc inquired, his tone laced with intrigue. While he was open to considering Bann's requests, his primary duty was to his home.

Bann regarded the Farseer's helmet thoughtfully before responding, his tone patient yet firm. "We have indeed arrived aboard one of your vessels, but it is not large enough to accommodate the number of people we need to transport, nor is it equipped to withstand the kind of action that awaits us on the planet we seek to reach." His words stirred a sense of mystery and intrigue among the listeners.

One of the Farseers, Yvrat Faire, couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity as she listened to Bann's response. "And how many individuals do you anticipate transporting? Are they of your own kin?" she inquired, casting a sidelong glance towards Naer-Lyoc.

Although briefed on the identity of the alien seated before her, Yvrat harbored numerous doubts in her mind. She approached the situation with caution, wary of offending the man while maintaining a careful demeanor.

Unconsciously, a smirk crept across Bann's face as he responded earnestly to her inquiry. "No, they are not of my kin. They are humans—soldiers from the Imperium of Mankind. We anticipate transporting around a thousand or so." His words and gesture elicited a deep frown from the Aeldari, who struggled to conceal the sheer disgust provoked by his revelation.

Murmurs erupted among the gathered assembly as the commanding voice of Farseer Bel-Annath resonated for the first time. "And why should Mymeara heed your plea when it appears you aid our adversaries?" His words were succinct, yet carried an undertone of inquiry.

Urocain appeared ready to respond to the inquiry, but Bann intervened, his voice firm and resolute. "Because I need to rid my planet of a scourge. The recent Tyranid attack has left their ships incapacitated, trapping them on my world. Meanwhile, I seek to mete out Saiyan retribution upon the Tyranids besieging the Imperium's planet." The last part of his words dripped with venom and fury.

As he spoke, Bann's body trembled with anticipation, his mind conjuring images of destruction wrought upon every single bioform.

The Aeldari present observed the exchange with a sense of deep contemplation, sensing the sincerity behind Bann's desire for vengeance and the truth in his words.

Maintaining a stoic demeanor, Farseer Yvrat directed her inquiry towards Bann. "And pray, enlighten us, Bann, what does Mymeara stand to gain from this proposition? All I perceive is the prospect of relinquishing one of our vessels, filling it with our foes, dispatching it towards a besieged planet under our adversary's dominion, with scant likelihood of retrieval and survival for its crew."

Upon hearing her words, Bann broke eye contact with the Farseers and exchanged a silent glance with Urocain, his raised brow conveying a silent question. Without the need for words, Urocain understood the unspoken inquiry posed to him.

Clearing his throat, Urocain took it upon himself to respond. "The alliance between the Saiyans and Mymeara has been forged amidst the crucible of combat and the hope of a radiant dawn. I deem this gesture to be a token of confidence extended from our kin to our esteemed allies," he declared, nodding towards Naer-Lyoc.

His words prompted the onlookers to exchange uncertain glances, their gazes lingering on Bann as they assessed the intensity of his resolve.

Before Naer-Lyoc could interject with his own scheming words, Farseer Bel-Annath intervened, directing a questioning gaze towards Naer-Lyoc. "I was not apprised of any intention to forge an alliance with beings from another celestial sphere, merely briefed on a potential encounter that could alter our fortunes. Speak, Naer-Lyoc, is there something you wish to disclose?"

As the air thickened once again, a chill ran down the spines of many upon hearing the cold words spoken by their leader.

Composing himself, Naer-Lyoc removed his helmet with care, revealing his brown hair, intricately braided like a crown, flowing down to his shoulders. His face was sharp, his features alien yet somehow handsome. But it was his eyes that captured everyone's attention—a glint of mystery shimmered within them, drawing the gaze of all who beheld him.

Staring at Bann for a couple of seconds, he moved his gaze towards Bel-Annath before saying, "I, too, have been troubled by the sudden onset of visions afflicting our people, portents of an ominous future only redeemable by the intervention of an enigmatic entity. Amidst my many meditations, I stumbled upon a glimpse of what is to come, a tapestry woven with countless threads, revealing itself to me for the first time," His gaze shifted once more toward Bann as he continued his exposition, "Soaring across distant realms, unleashing flames from the heavens upon our foes, he was there. Shielding our brethren dwelling beyond our craftworld's embrace, his visage recurrent amidst the most dire of crises aboard the vessels of our allies. His name resounding in triumphant choruses, all made possible by the actions of a singular individual."

As his gaze lingered briefly on Anáeth, Naer-Lyoc's eyes then returned to settle on Bann.

"Upon learning of his whereabouts, I directed the Warlock Urocain, the Warrior Irelene, and the Healer Anáeth to rendezvous with this Saiyan. To encounter the one who shall aid us all in our most desperate hours yet to come," he declared, his voice steady as he addressed Bel-Annath, whose countenance remained impassive behind his helmet.

Before anyone could interject, Bann spoke once more, his voice filled with determination. "I could stand and hear your words all day, as I find the intricacies of diplomacy interesting and compelling. However, I came here expecting something, and I am willing to offer something in exchange if it's possible. My only request is that this matter be resolved swiftly, so that we may return and proceed as soon as possible."

His deep voice, resonating with authority, alongside the subtle intonation of command, made more than one grimace in discomfort. Yet, despite the unease it elicited, Bel-Annath stared at Bann with a rapt expression as he asked him, "And what is it that you offer in exchange?"

Raising one finger over his folded arms, Bann's smile widened as he confidently replied, "Just pick one enemy of yours to be disposed of, and I'll see it done after I return. No army, fleet, or world shall stand again once I finish. Just one of us is necessary to get the job done."

His words, coupled with his confident demeanor and the dangerous glint in his eyes, forced many to inhale sharply, while others shuddered at the threatening aura that enveloped the whole Craftworld.

The hearts of more than one veteran warrior thundered like drums after feeling his ki flaring, while the uncomfortable sensation of witnessing an apex predator made itself present. Their eyes were poised with alarm over his seemingly calm figure, sensing the underlying threat he exuded.

Yet, the Farseers knew better than others. With their ability to pry between the Immaterium and reality, they witnessed the horror and menace that Bann represented, affirming the sincerity behind his words.

Timing perfectly to add more shock to the scene, Urocain retrieved a piece of crystal from his pocket and made it levitate towards Bel-Annath. The crystal revealed, for everyone to hear, "I have meticulously documented the deeds and prowess of our allies, serving as corroborating evidence for the veracity of Bann's assertions. Yet, I also attest as a witness that his words harbor no intent to deceive any among you."

Urocain's body posture, coupled with his intonation, conveyed the truthfulness of his words, enveloping the room in a solemn atmosphere.

As Bel-Annath received the crystal in the palm of his hands, a flicker of light danced over his helmet, scanning the information contained within while his eyes absorbed every detail.

For a couple of minutes, the room remained in silence, awaiting the decision of their leader. With each pulse of Bann's ki, the tension in the air heightened, hitching breaths and causing more than one individual to gulp down in anxious anticipation.

For what seemed like an eternity, Bel-Annath deliberated over his decision before finally making it known. "Your race seems to prove to be indeed an outstanding and helpful ally. Mymeara has battled alone long enough for me and my brothers to remain steadfast and resolute in accepting such a fortuitous encounter. I accept your request and also take your words as a pledge. After you return victorious, I personally will task you with defeating one of our foes."

Standing from his seat, Bel-Annath approached Bann and extended his hand, prompting Bann to rise and meet him in a firm grip. As they shook hands, Bel-Annath spoke with a solemn tone, "It is a great honor for me, as the Farseer of Mymeara, to declare that our Craftworld and the Saiyan race are now allies and friends. May you endure for many cycles, Bann, to witness with us the bountiful harvest borne of our union this day."

Returning the Farseer's smile, Bann added confidently, "Likewise, Farseer. I can assure you that you have made the best decision today."

With hundreds of witnesses and an artist capturing the historic moment, a jubilant and ceremonious atmosphere filled the building as discussions ensued. The first journey had not only proved fruitful but had also opened a realm of possibilities for Bann and the Saiyans, a realization that would soon dawn upon him.