The Wayward Son

After Renfaeda was finally content with Seiras' pain, she let off on his shock collar. He quickly stood up and did his absolute best to show indifference and calmness.

"As you command, master," he spoke after a short pause.

Renfaeda smirked at his response before waving him over to follow her away from the stage. As Seiras departed, he saw someone sitting in the amphitheater a considerable distance away. His eyes were sharp and well adjusted, but even he could barely make out the sight of the solitaire mask.

He literally blinked once, and it was gone instantly. A normal person might have been under the impression they were hallucinating or imagining things, but Seiras had a feeling he wasn't. No doubt was in his mind that Aenaria would now be watching him when he least expected it.

'Why do I get the feeling I'm going to regret this later? Aenaria seemed to think that Iruna was dooming me with this path I've been set on. Kalyra said I would have been better off dead as opposed to the future they saw for me. As terrible as it sounds, I must walk this path for the betterment of the Imperium. If I can bring back Ferrus Manus, then my death or damnation will not have been in vain. No matter what awaits me, I will never betray mankind as a whole. I'll do the wrong thing for the right reason. Maybe that's what Omegon was talking about…maybe that's why he saved our lives. It makes me wonder…am I ever really going to be free? Am I always going to be a pawn in someone else's greater game?' he sighed mentally as he followed Renfaeda and her entourage away.

His mind was reflecting heavily on the time he spent dead in the warp. Contrary to all imperial doctrines, the Emperor wasn't there to save his soul from damnation. Daemons were propositioning him and had it not been for Melisara, they would already have his soul. Seiras had never once feared death in his life as an Astartes…but knowing that fate awaited him should he die again was a grim thought indeed.

As they departed the area and ascended the steps, Renfaeda glanced over at him, "What did the harlequins say to you, Seiras?"

"They were mentioning that I had a strong and bright soul. I assume the harlequins thought they could find a use for me or something. They seemed to be asking Mokaela questions about me, but I couldn't understand what they were talking about," he framed the truth behind his lie. There was no point in lying wholly about the situation considering Mokaela had also been there. Plus, it was in his best interest to keep the harlequins away from him. Implying to Renfaeda that they wanted to take him would undoubtedly reinforce her current intentions.

The succubus looked surprised, "You have a bright soul? Hmm…I suppose you're a strong psyker aren't you? Come to think of it, just how powerful are your psychic abilities? I never got to see them in action, but Faelan seemed to think they were impressive. Your ability to use them in Meela's proximity was quite unprecedented according to my brother. Most warlocks can't even use psychic powers at that range."

"In regard to the Imperium's official ranking classification for psykers and my Inquisitorial records, I am a gamma level psyker. Unofficially, and only known to my chapter, I'm beta level…though that is only according to my chapter's librarium. I've never attempted to use that much power before...so I actually don't know how far I can safely push that threshold," Seiras explained.

The succubus tilted her head curiously, "That doesn't tell me anything. Explain this classification system. I've never heard of it."

"It's a 24-point scale system that labels one's raw psychic potential ranging from blanks all the way up to the demi-god like psykers. Most humans are in the lower to middle part of the scale at the Rho or Pi designation. On a number scale, think of them as a zero. The scale can go up or down from there ranging on one's psychic potential or their anti-psychic null presence," Seiras responded.

"What are the ranks? What would Meela be then?" Renfaeda followed up with a fascinated expression. Seiras found her curiosity on this topic odd and couldn't quite understand why she cared to know more about something this irrelevant to her.

'I'd understand if Melisara or Faelan were asking me these questions, but why does Renfaeda care?' Seiras wondered briefly.

"Down from Rho and Pi, where most humans are you go into the negative side of the spectrum starting with Sigma and Tau. This bracket grouping is for psionically dense individuals. Their minds are very difficult to read, and they have a certain immunity to warp fluctuations. They tend to be unlucky for anyone around them according to most records. Some refer to them as jinxes as they negatively effect others around them. The apparent bad luck they bring is a disruption of the warp brought upon by their negative emotions. Below that is the next bracket of Upsilon, Phi, Chi, and Psi. These are people that are minor nulls and blanks I believe. From what I understand, they have innate resistances to psychic powers. They also have a light anti-psychic presence that usually makes people dislike them for no viable reason. The latter ranks of Chi and Psi are when one becomes completely immune to prescience, direct psychic attacks, and mind reading. Below that you reach the Omega level classification where true blanks and Pariahs are designated. I'm not too familiar on what differentiates those at these lower designations, but Meela is most likely in the Psi or Omega category. There's also a theorized level beyond that called Omega-minus, though I have no information on that subject. If such a being is possible, it would be like a black hole to all living things around it." Seiras explained with detail.

Renfaeda shook her head, "So what about the other end of the scale? Where do you rank?"

"Above Pi, you start ascending into the positive end of the psychic spectrum with Omicron, Xi, Nu, Mu, Lambda, and Kappa. This bracket usually defines passive, unconscious, and minor psychic abilities. Some call them the lucky ranks. About one in a thousand humans are in the first four designations of this category and one in a ten thousand are in Lambda or Kappa. Those at Lambda and Kappa are usually capable of astral projection while sleeping and can see warp spirits. They're psychically sensitive, but not officially psykers. The following bracket consists of Iota, Theta, and Eta. This is when one is considered a true psyker in the Imperium as they have moderate levels of power and conscious control over them. The next bracket rankings are the Zeta and Epsilon level psykers. Many astropaths and sanctioned psykers within the Imperial Guard are usually those two rankings. It's considered one of the best places for a psyker to be as it is a lower risk higher reward level of power that can be safely managed. Above that you reach into the Delta and Gamma level psykers. Anyone this high up on the spectrum will usually be in service to the Inquisition, the Astra Telepathica, or an Astartes chapter as only these three organizations offer the proper environment to train and control such a psyker. Delta is a common rank for Space Marine Librarians and psychic inquisitors. Gamma is my official ranking above that," Seiras paused briefly as he took in Renfaeda's reaction.

She tilted her head, "What defines gamma level psykers in your Imperium?"

"Gamma level is the last "safe" level a human psyker can be before they are considered mentally unstable or too dangerous to keep around. Many senior epistolary librarians among Astartes possess this level. It's also a common rank for Grey Knights and Astropath choir leads. Many lead Navigators are typically Delta or Gamma level as well," Seiras answered her question promptly.

As they continued walking, Renfaeda brought a hand to her chin, "Hmm…so where would an Aeldari farseer rank among this human classification system?"

"It depends on the farseer, but most of them would be Beta or Alpha level if I had to guess. Those are the top of the positive spectrum after Gamma. It's difficult to really speculate on how an innately psychic species like the Aeldari can handle those higher tiers of psychic power. An Aeldari psyker has higher psychic potential, but even they rarely go above beta levels of power from what I've seen. It makes one a beacon to daemons and they would be targeted by Slaanesh. Beta and Alpha level are past the threshold of human sanity. Any human that high is usually never seen in combat as they are a massive threat to the safety of a planet or anyone they're around. Beta level is most common among the top tier Grey Knights since they have the mental willpower to resist daemonic possession and use their power appropriately. With the exception of elite grey knights or famous librarians, I don't know of any humans that can safely wield this amount of power. Those born at this ranking are usually sacrificed to the Golden Throne or killed outright for being too dangerous. Those that aren't killed would undoubtedly be taken as Grey Knight recruits or Inquisitorial acolytes. The unlucky ones that aren't killed or recruited by the Inquisition will sometimes be bound into a psi-titan as a living battery." Seiras continued.

"A psi-titan? Is that like a wraithknight?" she wondered.

Seiras shook his head, "Not exactly. It's an extremely rare type of titan where a blank is the princeps and the psyker is the battery. The Ordo Sinister has a few I believe...but I've never seen such a machine. I can't even imagine what it could do. My chapter was working with the Mechanicus to create our own in secret, but we never completed it."

"Where is this Psi-titan?" Renfaeda asked a bit too eagerly for his liking.

The librarian stared at her blankly, "It was moved by the mechancius and our tech marines after the schism of my chapter. Only our Chapter Master, the tech marines, and the mechanicus know where it is now. I wasn't allowed to know since I was part of the former chapter master's inner circle."

"That's a shame...it would make a useful tool for the Kabal. But I'm getting side-tracked here. Tell me about Alpha level human psykers. Is that where your Emperor would rank?" Renfaeda wondered.

"Alpha level humans are barely humans at all. Not only are they impossibly rare, but most that are born tend to immediately rip open city sized warp tears or become possessed. I hear that they're almost always killed by the Inquisition because they're too powerful to control. The Ordo Hereticus usually deals with that as they have the most nulls and can safely approach a being that dangerous. If they can't contain one, they'll send a Culexus Assassin to kill it. If one is alpha level, then it'd be more appropriate to call them a weapon of mass destruction. I hear they can mind control entire populations, fling titans with ease, and pull starships out of orbit. While this is extremely impressive and terrifying, the Emperor is far above alpha level. Above Alpha level is Alpha-plus level which is off the scale. Many believe the Emperor of Mankind is even above alpha-plus level. It's hardly surprising that humanity worships him as a deity." Seiras continued with excruciating detail.

"Interesting…so you're actually a beta level then? If I'm imagining the scales correctly in that they're logarithmic, then you could have easily been able to tear ravagers in half or psychically shatter any of my bloodbrides that caught you, right? Why didn't you do that?" Renfaeda wondered.

"It's not that simple. I have used psychic power like that before…and it's too dangerous for me to control. The more psychic potential you have, the more cautious you must be with your power. I only use the appropriate power necessary to deal with situations. I rarely go above Delta levels of power if I can help it…especially in the past few decades. If my baseline power can't handle something, then it's only going to cause more issues if I risk tearing open the warp or going insane. At that point, I'd be better off dying. One of my ancestors was also a beta level and he became insane and mutated into a daemon. That is not a fate I wish to share," he sighed.

The succubus licked her lips for a moment before giggling, "So where would you compare against Aeldari psykers?"

"In a way to best describe it to you, I'm stronger than most warlocks but weaker than experienced farseers. That's not to say I can't kill one in combat, but I lack the same…control or potential that they have. In a psychic battle, I wouldn't win. With that being said, they would doubtfully ever use beta or alpha tier levels of power unless it was for a desperate situation. A good example that comes to my mind is Taldeer. She was a farseer from Ulthwe that my chapter killed. She almost wiped out an entire company after we cut her webway access off. It took six librarians including myself to even hold her powers at bay until we could kill her," Seiras elaborated.

"Hmm…so are you one of the strongest librarians in your Imperium then? I imagine Deathwatch wouldn't have recruited otherwise, no?" she wondered.

"If you're asking where I rank among famous librarians…I don't know. Although my chapter is known for its librarians, I would never dare compare myself to legendary librarians like Mephiston of the Blood Angels or Tigurius of the Ultramarines. They're both undoubtedly at least beta level psykers with a much higher willpower and discipline than me. My former chapter master believed I was the strongest librarian in our chapter after him, but I'm not even the Chief Librarian of the Blood Ravens, so I hardly believe in that possibility," Seiras explained.

'Jonah was more experienced than me anyways...he deserved that position. I suppose if he dies then I'm next in line. Most of the original epistolaries are all dead now except for us. Jensus might be eligible...but I have almost a full century of service over him.' Seiras thought to himself.

Renfaeda smirked at his explanation, "Regardless, such overwhelming psychic potential might explain why you were able to use your psychic abilities in Meela's presence. I've seen her negate warlocks outright before. I find it strange that you didn't have that issue. Do you feel any unease in her presence? I understand it's quite unbearable for a psyker to be around a null…Meela disgusts me and I'm not psychic at all."

"She creeps me out…which is not an easy thing for one to do to an Astartes. As far as my ability to use my powers in her presence…I honestly couldn't use much at all. I could use telekinesis and I killed one of the wyches with lightning before my capture. During my engagement with Faelan's ravager party, I attempted to use more psychic power on multiple occasions, and most of them failed because of Meela. I didn't know that at the time though and thought it would be too risky to attempt using more power. I suspected the ongoing warpstorms were disrupting me. In addition to that point, I knew back up was on the way and I believed I could hold out until then," he responded dryly.

'If it wasn't for Meela, I could have killed them all with that illusion, and spared myself all of this heresy. Granted it's actually important for me to be here and resurrect Ferrus Manus now. Still...it might have been too dangerous to use more power with the warpstorm going on. Nevertheless...all I know is the moment this collar comes off, I won't hold back any power killing these abominable aliens. I don't have to worry about accidentally summoning daemons in Commorragh. That might just have to be the distraction I need to escape.' Seiras thought briefly.

"Fair enough. This has been a rather enlightening conversation. I very much enjoyed talking to you about these things. Still…I wonder what the harlequins would have used you for?" Renfaeda wondered.

Seiras shrugged, "Probably a battery or a soul sacrifice maybe? Harlequins abduct human psykers a lot from what I've learned in Deathwatch."

"Haha, you do know Aeldari!" Renfaeda laughed at his response.

As they reached the top of the amphitheater, Seiras and Renfaeda were joined by most of the succubus posse minus Mokaela. They all spoke in their alien language about irrelevant topics for a minute or so.

"I have a question, master Renfaeda…" Seiras spoke up causing all of them to stop speaking and look at him.

Renfaeda tilted her head at him amused, "Oh? Ask away then."

"This Kabal war that your brother keeps talking about…is it true that he is going to want me to join in on it?" Seiras asked the succubus.

Renfaeda nodded, "Indeed it is. Although, we're not entirely ready to deploy yet. Your recent purge of the Khestri Family with Faelan's incubi has brought most of the trueborn in line, but many outlier factions and gangs aren't entirely concerned with who rules the upper spires. Specifically, Vatborn gangs, most local scourges, the Hellions, and Reaver gangs are all neutral in the Kabal war. Faelan will undoubtedly want them to join in, but they won't do it without proper motivation. They're always eager to join raids, but you won't find them interested in Kabal wars as they care little for the politics of the high society here."

"So Archon Faelan only has the support of your Wych Cult, the Kabal, and the nobility right now?" Seiras asked.

"He also has Archon Tahril's support. Tahril is one of Vect's whipping boys, but he leads a large chunk of the Black Heart Kabal," Renfaeda chuckled.

"I know who Archon Tahril is. I fought his forces in Kaurava many decades ago. He recognized me when I saw him in Melisara's lab recently," he replied.

The succubus' eyes widened with enthusiasm, "Did he now? So that's where you fought Cult of Strife wyches then?"

"Yes…" he trailed off.

For the first time since the arena battle, Nelfaera who had been walking to Renfaeda's other side spoke up, "How does Faelan intend on recruiting the gangs, Faeda?"

"That's a good question. I was actually thinking about asking him that right now. We should go and see what he says." Renfaeda glanced over at her cousin who looked a bit depressed still.

Nelfaera nodded in agreement. She briefly made eye contact with Seiras but looked away shortly afterward. He found her continued avoidant humility bizarre considering she had been the most arrogant of the wyches in Renfaeda's cult. She didn't recover the same way Aelendriel and Mokaela did…which led Seiras to assume the obvious that she had never been killed before and they had been.

As the group exited outside, Seiras was surprised to see Faelan waiting at the entrance for them. The archon quickly looked at Mairan and Tullarias, "I want you two to take Seiras back to the slave chamber for now."

"Faelan? What's wrong?" Renfaeda asked her brother curiously.

The archon looked serious for once, "I understand these…harlequins were interested in Seiras, yes?"

"Word reached your ear quite quickly…yes, I had to intervene when Mokaela was showing him to her father. Their shadowseer claimed that they had 'uses' for him…" Renfaeda answered.

Faelan shook his head, "I want him to remain in the slave chamber until their departure. These harlequins are an elusive bunch of tricksters."

Renfaeda smirked, "As you say, big brother."

"Seiras, you are to return to the slave chamber for now. Renfaeda and I have politics to deal with. Mairan and Tullarias will escort you there. I'll send for you when I need you again," Faelan addressed the librarian.

Seiras nodded his head before responding, "Yes, archon."

Maeralya who was standing nearby looked at Faelan and then Renfaeda, "Is there a reason he has to muck around with the trash tier slaves? Surely we could give him a personal chamber closer towards the spire palace…"

"Why exactly would that matter to you, Maeralya?" Renfaeda asked with obvious disapproval.

The Lhamaean crossed her arms, "It just makes more sense…plus then Faelan's lovely incubi don't have to spend two hours bringing him to and from the throne room."

"Oh because they have so much else to do, right? Vect forbid they walk to and from a slave chamber…somehow I doubt you actually have their benefit in mind," Renfaeda hissed.

"Is that right? Then what exactly are you implying, Lady Renfaeda?" the Lhamaean countered smugly.

The succubus smiled wickedly, "Nothing at all…I know you don't have the spine to do anything I would ever disapprove of."

"You're absolutely right…so what's the problem then?" Maeralya smirked back.

Before Renfaeda could say anything else, Faelan spoke up, "The only reason I haven't approved of his relocation is because Melisara insisted that he be kept in the closest slave chamber to her lab. Not to mention, he's less likely to wander off somewhere since there's only one way in and out of that chamber…and over the bridge. There's a reason we keep combatants in that chamber in particular."

"Oh…well that makes sense. Why didn't you just say so then?" Maeralya chuckled.

Renfaeda shook her head, "Because it has nothing to do with you. Mind your own business instead of concerning yourself over what MY slave does or where he goes."

Maeralya shook her head and frowned in disapproval before turning towards Faelan, "I have a request, my dear. Seiras liked one of my girls and I promised to give him one of them. Is that alright with you if I send one with him down there?"

Seiras instantly remembered that Maeralya's slaves had also been present at the play. Glancing over at them, he could see the girls were more than a little curious about what was happening.

Faelan cocked his head, "I have no objections, but why offer him one?"

"Because he asked me and I figured why not reward his loyalty with good incentives," Maeralya lied.

'Why is she lying about this? Why does Maeralya want me to take Sylea with me? Is Sylea spying for her or is this some elaborate plot to make Renfaeda angry?' he wondered.

"Hmm…yes that would be a good reward," Faelan nodded.

"Line up girls!" Maeralya commanded her slaves.

All of the girls quickly lined up and bowed low to Maeralya. They all spoke in perfect unison with a beautiful announcement, "What is your desire, mistress?"

'They've definitely done this thousands of times…' Seiras thought to himself as he glanced over the girls.

"Sylea, you're going to go with Seiras into one of the slave chambers. Feel free to bring your…'belongings' as well. Obey Seiras' every whim unless it contradicts mine…do you understand?" she asked the sororita seriously.

Sylea nodded instantly, "Gladly, mistress…I am his servant until you deem otherwise."

Renfaeda looked like she didn't approve of this situation, but kept her mouth shut. Nelfaera seemed somewhat interested in it as she stared at the woman. She didn't speak either unsurprisingly. None of the other wyches there said anything of relevance other than Aelendriel. The youngest succubus crossed her arms, "That slave is going to end up dead in a day down there. You think Seiras gives a damn about sex? You're a fool…"

'Aelendriel is doing a good job in covering up our encounter with a comment like that. Although, I doubt that will stay secret for long if Melisara's plan is to work,' he thought seriously.

"She will be quite alright…won't she Seiras?" Maeralya asked him in gothic.

'What is Maeralya's objective here? I can't figure it out…by the looks of things, neither can the wyches. This is troublesome. I need Melisara's opinion on Maeralya the next time I see her,' Seiras pondered further.

"I'll be fine, mistress," Sylea bowed her head.

"Good girl…you stay safe down in that slave chamber now. Make sure none of the filth touches her, Seiras. I'll be very upset if she gets damaged. I'm doing you a favor by giving you a pretty girl to fuck down there. Enjoy her," Maeralya licked her lips.

Mairan and Tullarias both glanced at one another but didn't say anything. Seiras had no doubts that Maeralya wanted them and everyone else present to be aware of his ability to have sex for some twisted reason.

If one word could describe how he was feeling right now, it would be embarrassment. Seiras took this opportunity to look at Sylea as the sororita eagerly made her way to his side. She looked like she approved of going with him but was wary of the nearby wyches glaring at her.

Nelfaera tilted her head in confusion at Maeralya, "You're giving him a girl to mate with? Does that mean he actually can?"

"That is a rather funny question isn't it? The answer is obvious…he can mate." Maeralya smirked.

Nelfaera stared at her seriously, "Really now? I had my suspicions, but I wasn't entirely certain. How did you find out?"

The Lhamaean looked at Faelan briefly, "I'm not sure if you're aware of this yet, Faelan, but your sister mated with Seiras not too long ago."

Renfaeda cracked a fist as she sent a death glare towards Maeralya. All of the wyches looked shocked by the reveal minus Aelendriel. Although the youngest succubus was quick to fake disbelief a split second later.

Much to everyone's surprise, Faelan didn't even seem to care. He shrugged, "I don't care what or who Renfaeda does in her off hours. If your intention was to embarrass her then it's failed dramatically. Seiras is part of the Kabal now…he's Renfaeda's property. She can do whatever she wants with him so long as Seiras is made available to assist in my goals."

Maeralya looked slightly off put by Faelan's lack of concern. It was obvious to everyone there that she was trying to get Renfaeda into trouble somehow. The succubus queen scoffed at Maeralya, "You really need to stay out of my business, Maeralya…if you know what's good for you."

Seiras took this time to look over at the other wyches' reactions in the brief silence that followed. He noticed Nelfaera's golden eyes were wide with complete disbelief. The Syren addressed her cousin shocked, "You…y-you mated with him?!"

Renfaeda sighed, "Yes…what of it?"

"I…I didn't know you were into…" Nelfaera trailed off disbelievingly.

"I enjoy raping monkeigh…yes. Anyone have an issue with that? By all means don't hold in your laughter if you find it funny. Anyone?" Renfaeda asked her nearby bloodbrides and Aelendriel. None of them had the slightest amount of humor or disgust on their faces. They looked completely calm and nonjudgmental much to Seiras' fascination.

'Even if they don't like it, they would never question the succubus queen of the cult. Thank the Emperor Mokaela isn't here right now. She would probably admit to it as well,' Seiras thought horrified.

"Looks like you were wrong, Aelendriel…he can breed" Nelfaera addressed her rival.

The blue and purple haired succubus simply shrugged, "Whatever…I guess so. The only person this really affects is Kaerith."

Seiras knew why Aelendriel mentioned the bloodbride. She wanted to test and see how Renfaeda would react to a potential rival for his 'affection.'

Kaerith froze up when all the other wyches looked at her. She immediately addressed Renfaeda, "I had no interest in him to begin with, mistress. He's all yours…"

"Really? Then why did you give him adrenal combat stimulants before the arena match?" Renfaeda asked the bloodbride.

Nelfaera and Aelendriel both went wide eyed at that reveal and sent hateful glares at Kaerith.

"You WHAT?! You tried to sabotage me!" Nelfaera hissed.

"How dare you, Kaerith!" Aelendriel shouted over her as she drew her archite glaive.

Before anyone could do anything, Renfaeda blocked Aelendriel and Nelfaera. She spoke calmly, "I'm glad she did too. I dare say you two deserved it for ridiculing her. Do not retaliate if you know what's good for you. This matter is settled…unless someone wants to make an issue of it with ME."

"Why did you even tell them then, if you approved, Lady Renfaeda?" Kaerith asked sheepishly.

"See to it you two don't piss me off with anything else or Kaerith will be the next succubus…is that understood?" Renfaeda threatened Aelendriel and Nelfaera. Both nodded immediately and went deathly silent.

Some of the other bloodbrides seemed confused by Renfaeda's actions, and even Seiras had no idea why Renfaeda would do this in front of Faelan and Maeralya either.

Glancing back at Maeralya now, Renfaeda spoke darkly, "Are there any more secrets about my wych cult you would like to share with everyone, or have I covered everything yet? We can start talking about your secrets as well if you'd like…"

For once, the arrogant Lhamaean had nothing to say. She opened her mouth as if to speak but closed her lips right afterwards.

'I get it now…she addressed this publicly so Maeralya couldn't use the Kaerith situation to plot against her and sow discord in the wych cult. Then she reversed the situation by implying she had blackmail on Maeralya. Eldar politics give me a headache. I think I preferred dealing with those hive world aristocrats.' The librarian thought to himself.

(Is something wrong, Meela?) Faelan asked the red-haired woman in Astartes sign language. The silent sister had an empty stare focused on the wyches. Seiras found it odd that Faelan would even bother asking her this type of question.

She nodded at him before making some hand gestures, (I'm just confused, master. What's going on right now?)

Faelan gestured back to her, (My sister and my concubine are butting heads and trying to out bitch one another.)

(Why is Lady Maeralya sending Sylea with Seiras?) she gestured back with subtle points at the named individuals.

(She's trying to upset my sister…this was all a pathetic attempt to expose her and make her angry. Maeralya is becoming more trouble than she's worth.) Faelan answered.

(Why keep Maeralya around then?) Meela responded.

The archon rolled his eyes, (Because she's a useful shield and spy. Also because her family is the second most powerful family in the Kabal. Politics my dear. I just wish they would all shut up and focus on something productive for once.)

'Faelan has to know that I can understand this…is he doing it in front of me on purpose?' Seiras wondered.

Several people seemed to notice Faelan and Meela interacting, but only Seiras could understand it. Maeralya looked a bit agitated when she realized Faelan and Meela were speaking in private. Aelendriel, now aware that it was Astartes sign language, glanced over at Seiras curiously from the corner of her eye. He knew she was going to ask him about this later.

"Enough wasting time. Everyone mind your own affairs for now, and for the love of Commorragh, will you all please stop being petty? We have a Kabal War to worry about. You can resume your little scheming bitchfests after I've slain Velatha. I want no more drama until then…is that understood, ladies?" Faelan broke the tension as he addressed his fellow Drukhari.

"Absolutely, brother." Renfaeda nodded.

"Yes, my love…whatever you desire," Maeralya added.

Aelendriel and Nelfaera didn't say anything, but they nodded in understanding at the archon. Faelan brushed a hand through his long blue hair and sighed for a moment, "If one of you wants to help me, then find out how we can recruit the mid-commorragh gangs to join us."

Nelfaera glanced at her cousin and spoke immediately, "I might be able to convince the Hellions and Reavers to join in the Kabal War…I'll need some time to work out the details, but if you send me with some backup down into the streets, I'm certain I can recruit most of the bigger gangs."

Faelan brought a hand to his chin, "Hmm…a brilliant suggestion, cousin. They do like you a lot. I'll give you time to work out a plan. Come speak with me later tonight in my chambers and we'll arrange for an operation tomorrow on the next star cycle."

Aelendriel sent a disapproving leer at Nelfaera. Seiras couldn't help but wonder if she still believed the lie he told about Nelfaera and Faelan. If she did, then this was only reinforcing it. The librarian was grateful for the good fortune as he thought it over, 'The seeds are already planted to cause infighting here. I need to figure out how to tie it all together and most importantly when to do it.'

"I'll begin at once," Nelfaera nodded respectfully before departing alone.

Seiras didn't have time to watch her leave before Faelan spoke to Tullarias and Mairan, "Take Seiras and the slave girl back to the palace slave chamber to get her belongings. Get Sorellia while you're at it and send her with them."

"As you command Archon," Tullarias replied.

"You're sending Sorellia with Seiras too? Why?" Maeralya asked confused.

Faelan smirked at her, "She's overdue a visit to see her fellow exarchs. Plus it's one less distraction while I prepare for our deployment. I also don't want her there while I work over vital and secret plans. She may be broken, but her awareness hasn't dulled."

"That's actually a good idea. I hadn't really given that much thought yet…" Maeralya nodded in approval.

"Always one step ahead…that's the only way I'll stay archon here. You're all dismissed," he waved them all away.

As everyone departed, Faelan glanced at Seiras and spoke in gothic, "I'm sending Sorellia with you too."

"Why?" Seiras asked even though he already knew what Faelan's reason was.

Faelan shook his head, "No more questions…be on your way."

Without another word, Seiras nodded and followed behind his familiar incubi escort along with Sylea. The Sororita looked hopelessly confused about what was going on but knew better than to speak unless spoken to. She periodically looked up at Seiras during their walk and seemed anxious and grateful at the same time.

'She's probably thrilled to be rid of Maeralya's company for the time being…this actually works out pretty well though. Still…why did Faelan want to send Sorellia down there too? Things aren't adding up. His explanation to the others seemed like only half of the truth. I should be wary of Sorellia down there and I should also try not to expose my escape plans with the other exarchs while she's present. When I get down there, it's probably best to let Tallath or Ashera come to us. They'll be more vigilant about a potential scheme from Faelan than I will. Ashera seemed to be under the impression that Sorellia isn't entirely trustworthy either…I'll defer to them to deal with her.' Seiras thought logically about the situation.

Later

The walk towards Sylea's living chamber was spent in complete silence, unsurprisingly. They wasted no time retrieving the sororita slave's belongings which pretty much consisted of a bag of clothing and a few basic need amenities. She also had some food as well. The incubi didn't even acknowledge her existence as she exited the room with her "belongings" and nodded at them.

The incubi then proceeded to lead them down an adjacent hallway to another slave area. After a brief walk, Mairan and Tullarias opened the door to a slave cell near the throne room. In it, Sorellia was asleep on the hard floor. There was nothing even remotely comfortable about this room. It was surrounded by reflective walls on all sides and even the floor and ceiling. It had small window in the distance that looked out over the foundry and shipyard. This room's set up was likely designed to force one into seeing themselves no matter where they looked, and to offer a despairing sight of unreachable freedom outside of the window. Seiras couldn't even imagine what endless hours of captivity in a place like this would do to an Eldar mind.

Sorellia was quick to awaken when she heard the door open. No doubt her captivity and trauma had conditioned her to wake up when she heard this noise. The banshee exarch had a look of fear when she spotted the two incubi enter the room first.

Mairan spoke to her, "Get up whore…Faelan's sending you back down to the general population. Consider yourself lucky that he's finally bored of you."

The banshee nodded without responding. She looked confused however when she followed them out of the room and saw Seiras and Sylea as well.

Neither Incubus bothered explaining anything to her as they simply began to walk away. Sorellia took her cue to follow behind Seiras and Sylea now but seemed a bit reluctant and fearful.

To Seiras' distaste, the banshee was still topless, and only wearing a loincloth. 'Are they seriously going to deliver her down there with no clothes on like this?'

Sorellia was no doubt aware of this situation as the banshee had a look of anxiety clearly plastered on her face. She looked afraid much to his concern. Seiras found it odd since as a banshee exarch, nothing was really a threat to her down there except him or maybe the Kroot shaper.

"Sorellia, here…" Sylea spoke for the first time as she pulled a shirt of some kind out of her bag for the banshee to wear.

The exarch seemed relieved by Sylea's offering as she didn't object at all. The shirt was definitely too short to go all the way down, but at least covered up Sorellia's chest and two thirds of her stomach. By the looks of it, it was a black undershirt with no sleeves. The sight of an eldar in a t-shirt was something Seiras never thought he would see, but given how strange the past month had been, he was hardly surprised at this point.

"I have more clothes you can wear when we stop later," the sister offered.

Sorellia nodded as she looked down at the woman and spoke in gothic to her, "Your offering is unexpected but not unwelcome, Sylea…"

Seiras was both amazed and disturbed by what he was witnessing. A sororita and a howling banshee were not only being civil, but they spoke each other's names and seemed to have some type of history.

'Perhaps their shared abuse and close captivity together has built some type of trust or kinship between them? Even though they're enemies outside of this place, they're both sex slaves in here. I guess I'm not the only one desperate enough to make allies with xenos…' Seiras thought.

Seiras made sure to avoid looking at either one of them as he didn't want some strange interaction to occur during their walk. He kept his eyes ahead as he focused on Mairan and Tullarias. Nobody spoke another word for about an hour as they descended back towards the slave chamber nearest to Melisara's lab.

As they came across the bridge and neared their destination, Mairan looked back and spoke to the space marine, "I've been meaning to ask you, Seiras…why were you staring at the solitaire during the play? What did you see that put you in a daze?"

Both Sorellia and Sylea looked shocked that the incubus spoke to Seiras and used his name. They stayed quiet as they watched with unfiltered interest.

"Was I not supposed to? She looked to be the antagonist…but was captivating in a way. I don't really know what was going on, but I sensed a strange aura about her." Seiras half-lied.

"You're especially vulnerable to her corruption then…being psychic makes it even worse. I'm only going to tell you this because it's important…never stare at a solitaire. You'll be cursed forever if you do. Consider yourself fortunate that she didn't notice your gaze. Even we wouldn't cross paths or blades with a monster like that," Mairan said grimly.

'Great…and I went out of my way to talk to her and sing.' Seiras sighed mentally.

"How is it a curse, exactly? I understand they're incredibly powerful and dangerous, but what threat is a harlequin to me here? You think she would kill me?" he tested his luck and tried to ask.

Much to his surprise, Tullarias answered him, "Solitaires sometimes stalk those who interact with them or get their attention…which usually results in terrible luck and a gruesome death. Most are completely insane from playing Slaanesh and all of them are void of a soul. They have possessive and obsessive personalities…even for our kind. They walk the path of damnation and have no restrictions to what they can do and what they aspire to accomplish. Being in their mere proximity invites the gaze of She-Who-Thirsts since they are bound to her upon death. That's not even counting the fact that they're among the most powerful of all Eldar warriors and psykers. Nothing in Commorragh could stop her from killing you if she wanted except Drazhar. Nothing in your imperium could stop one either except maybe one of your god-prince primarchs. Drawing her attention would cause her to linger here…which would be a terrible omen for everyone."

'That's exactly why I need to do whatever I can to make Aenaria help me. If she's got the incubi concerned like this, then she would make an indispensable ally. I'm curious what Aenaria would think when and if she finds out about what Melisara and I are planning to do. Would she try to stop me from resurrecting Ferrus Manus? Aenaria didn't seem to like the idea of helping the craftworlders here, so it's a definite possibility. She believed Iruna was setting me up for something terrible. Well it's not like I can do anything about it at this point. All that matters is resurrecting the primarch and getting out of here. Melisara is the only ally I can actually trust…which is horrific to consider since she's a haemonculus,' Seiras thought to himself in the brief silence that followed.

Mairan spoke again when she saw Seiras' concerned gaze, "Craftworlders are especially terrified of them. Solitaires can passively disrupt their spirit stones. To die to one or even near one is to be guaranteed damnation in the maw of She-Who-Thirsts. They're hated and feared by our kind, but also respected and pitied. Most tend to be loners as even the harlequin troupes they perform with avoid them. Does that answer your question, space marine?"

"Yes, it does. I appreciate the explanation. I will heed your advice without doubt," Seiras nodded at the two incubi.

They didn't respond, but Tullarias gave him a simple nod before the two warriors faced forward again. 'I really hope this is all superstitious conjecture and not as bad as they claim. If I can actually get Aenaria to help me, then I don't see how it would be a curse. Being trapped in this alien hell is already a curse…plus I'm already on Slaanesh's board,' the Blood Raven tried to justify his earlier actions.

Seiras took this brief opportunity to glance back at Sorellia and Sylea. Both were hopelessly confused by the civility and Sorellia looked noticeably worried as she looked away from him immediately.

He turned forward again as he shook his head, 'Sorellia will be especially wary of me after seeing this. She hates Faelan and his incubi and will have a difficult time trusting me now. I'll count on Ashera, Tallath, and Atharen to handle her. I honestly have no idea how to deal with her…especially after all of this. I only pray she doesn't tell them about our...encounter.'

Nothing else was said as the escort finally arrived at the slave chamber's main elevator lift. Mairan and Tullarias didn't bother getting on it as they pointed inside for the slaves to get on and descend.

Sylea and Sorellia got on first, but as Seiras walked to enter, Mairan held up a demiklaive to block him. She turned towards Tullarias, "Send them down first…I want to speak with Seiras."

"About Renfaeda?" Tullarias inquired stoically.

She nodded, "Yes…I will keep it brief."

"Make sure he knows about Maeralya too. I'll be back shortly," Tullarias nodded at her as he got on the elevator with the two slaves and pressed an override button causing it to go down.

Once it had descended out of view, Mairan glanced back at Seiras and spoke with calm anger, "You and I need to have a talk…warrior to warrior."

"What can I do for you, Mairan?" he replied curiously.

"So Renfaeda raped you, did she? I'm curious…did you breed with Maeralya as well?" Mairan asked.

Seiras sighed, "What happened with Renfaeda was not my choice…call it whatever you will. As for Maeralya, I had no interest in the archon's consort even though she insisted that I massage her feet. I didn't mate with her despite her claims that Faelan wouldn't care."

"That's good. I'm going to be perfectly blunt about this…don't fall for any of Maeralya's schemes. I've witnessed her whoring around on Faelan numerous times. Each person involved was punished extensively. That courtesan bitch does it on purpose because it's fun for her to rile up the archon and get her affairs murdered. When she finally does produce Faelan another child, I will be skeptical to believe it's even his. Do not under any circumstances trust that Lhamaean," Mairan explained.

The Blood Raven crossed his arms, "I assumed as much already. She seems especially duplicitous even for one of your kind. Though I am confused as to why would Faelan leave her alone with me then and tell her to 'give me good incentives?'"

"Maeralya has never once taken an interest in a male human slave. Faelan likely didn't think anything would come of it. It was also an excuse to keep her out of his business with Vect. Regardless…you'd be a fool to take someone's word at face value. You're under no obligation to obey anyone here except the Aeshul family and us by extension of Faelan. Remember that the next time someone orders you to do anything questionable. That includes the other wyches, the haemonculus, any of the Kabal members, other nobles, and especially Faelan's consort," Mairan explained.

Seiras nodded, "As you say."

'From what Faelan told Meela, it sounds like he doesn't really trust Maeralya either. He keeps her around for political reasons.' He thought immediately afterward.

"You spoke of Maeralya producing another child…has she given Faelan one before?" Seiras asked.

Mairan nodded, "Three in fact. Two males and one female. The first one died in a raid four centuries ago. The second was assassinated by an upstart Dracon. The most recent one was a girl. She is still alive but stays with the Udra family. That is the noble house Maeralya is from. Faelan had her moved there around the beginning of this conflict with Archon Velatha. He believes she is safer being away from him and the Kabal itself. I'm of the mindset that Faelan also wished to separate her from her mother's influence. The girl is strange...she aspires to be a scourge for some reason."

"So Faelan and Maeralya have been together for a long time then? Why does she whore around on him if she's his consort? Is there no affection between them anymore? Or was there ever any to begin with?" Seiras asked.

The incubus tilted her head and spoke quietly, "They have a complicated relationship. Maeralya was with Faelan before he became the archon. I imagine he has some measure of trust and affection for her…otherwise the insufferable bitch would be dead already. She also solidifies his political standing with the Udra family. As for why she whores around on him…it's because she's a Lhamaean. Expecting sole loyalty from a noble concubine is like expecting an ork to be passive and non-aggressive."

"What would Faelan have done if I did…do something with her?" Seiras decided to ask even despite how dangerous and heretical the question was.

"She's only a brood mare to him with an important family name. Considering you can't impregnate her and all of the repeat offenses; he likely wouldn't punish you as severely as he has done to others. He possibly wouldn't care either, but that's not a risk I would encourage you to take. However, if you touched Meela…you could expect the worst," Mairan answered.

Seiras looked down for a moment, "Castration and flaying I assume…right? Has Faelan done anything more severe than that before?"

"I have seen a few unique punishments before. One time, a former Dracon of his had a long affair with Maeralya in secret…instead of mutilating and castrating him like we all expected he would, Faelan had his former haemonculus sex change him to female down to a cellular level," Mairan paused briefly.

"What?! He had a male dracon turned into a female? Isn't that impossible? You can't alter the chromosomal level like that," Seiras gawked.

"Perhaps your kind can't, but experienced haemonculi can. It's actually one of the most expensive procedures one can buy in Commorragh…only a handful of them can completely rewrite the gene code and alter the body's current development. After this dracon was turned female, Faelan raped her periodically and eventually impregnated her. His fourth child came from this Dracon. Faelan did this primarily to punish Maeralya, as he didn't even demote or kill the Dracon afterwards. She produced a daughter which Faelan kept around all the time. Maeralya despised the child…and attempted to assassinate her multiple times. That's why she eventually ran away to join the Ynnari," Mairan explained.

"Sounds like quite an elaborate punishment. How long ago was that?" the librarian asked.

"Decades or centuries I imagine. I don't really keep track of your Imperial Calendar or I would have an accurate answer for you. This was before Faelan acquired Meela," Mairan replied.

Seiras looked away briefly, "So what ever happened to that Dracon then?"

"Maeralya had her poisoned…" the incubus stated simply.

"I can see why you're warning me about her. I hope to avoid Maeralya at all costs then," he replied.

"That would be most wise," she nodded.

Neither warrior spoke for a long minute as Seiras absorbed this information. He thought for a moment before asking another question, "What does the archon think about his sister's…interest in me?"

"I imagine he doesn't care. Faelan himself likes monkeigh sex slaves. I personally find it revolting that you had to sully yourself with her stink, but my opinion doesn't matter in this situation. She owns you and she bested you in combat…it is her right to do so," Mairan practically spat.

"Cross species mating is rather unnatural and heretical," Seiras shook his head.

Mairan shook her head, "It's very uncommon among trueborn nobility…especially ladies, but vatborn rape monkeigh all the time. There's less judgment about everything down there in the city streets. Considering you are famous for your arena battle now; I imagine you would be highly sought after by mid-commorragh eldar."

"There's human slaves in the streets of Commorragh?" Seiras asked surprised.

"There's countless trillions of all manners of beings throughout the city. Freshly caught slaves tend to be kept in the spires, but mid commorragh has many human slaves that have been bred in captivity for countless generations. I'd say there's more humans down there than up here. Vatborn live around them and have less reservations about taking one as a pet or a lover," she explained further.

"I can see why you would find that revolting…" he shook his head in disgust.

She stared at him quietly for a moment before responding, "I'm used to seeing it. I've never personally cared to try, but I understand why some commorrites take monkeigh lovers. They're less likely to kill you or betray you. There is some appeal to the convenience of it. Granted wyches are very shallow and value looks and status quite highly. You're not hideous, but I don't see why she would take a fancy to you…even if it was only to assert dominance."

'Why is she telling me all of this?' he wondered.

Before the situation could become more awkward, the elevator finally came back up with Tullarias on it. He stepped off and looked between them, "Are you done yet, Mairan?"

"I've said what I wanted to him…" she replied.

The larger incubus glanced at Seiras and pointed towards the elevator lift, "Be on your way, Seiras. Faelan will likely call you again in a few days."

The librarian nodded at them as he got on and the platform began to descend. About a minute passed as he descended. His mind was racing over the unusual conversation moments prior, 'Was Mairan suggesting she didn't disapprove of crossbreeding? Maybe all of the corruption in this perverted place has twisted my mind into assuming such guttural thoughts. Still…she doesn't appear to hate me as much as she did before. She took the news of me being Renfaeda's victim better than I expected. Plus she went out of her way to warn me about some things.'

An abrupt stop caused the elevator platform to jerk still drawing Seiras from his thoughts. He looked around in confusion as all the nearby lights went out for no apparent reason immediately afterward.

Keeping his composure, he cautiously examined the elevator's override panel, 'Hmm…I might be able to replicate Tullarias' actions to open this. It helps being able to read it as well. Granted they probably lock it down up top so it can't be used from the slave level floor.'

A ghostly shiver ran up the space marine's spine seconds later as he felt something touch his back. Seiras slowly turned around and saw something bizarre. A candle was levitating in front of him in the dark elevator.

He slowly approached it as he reached out the grab the wax candle. It disappeared from his hand the moment he touched it much to his confusion. A chilling sound caught his attention as he stared at his hand briefly. Jerking around, Seiras saw another candle was floating behind him.

'What in the Emperor's name is this? It has to be Aenaria…I assumed she was still watching me, but why is she doing this?' he wondered.

"Nobody ever looks up…you should work on that." Aenaria's voice sounded as he looked around more urgently.

The librarian turned his gaze to the ceiling of this lift where he saw Aenaria standing upside down on the ceiling…defying gravity.

"Aenaria…what is this all about?" he asked slowly.

She gracefully landed in front of him as she answered, "Just a little detour on your way down. We can finally speak more in private now."

"I assume you've been stalking me this entire time?" he asked knowingly.

Her stoic voice inflected a slight amount of curious emotion, "Yes I have…does that concern you now?"

"No…I'm actually thankful we can speak again so soon," he replied.

Her masked head tilted as the harlequin made an unusual sound. He wasn't sure whether it was a sigh or an approving sound.

"So you don't want to heed the advice of those incubi?" she asked.

"Even if I did, it's too late for that now," the Astartes sighed.

Aenaria stared at him for a long uncomfortable moment before speaking again, "She was right though…you'd be a fool to trust anyone's word around here. Even mine…how do you know it's even me?"

"Spare me the cryptic conjecture and rhetorical questions. I've already told you too much. At this point it would be pointless to back out on my request now. I still need your help and I'm willing to do just about anything for it," Seiras responded stoically.

The solitaire lowered her masked head as she responded, "You shouldn't make offers like that. Offering anything can mean a lot of different things. Have you even considered what I would want were I to humor your request?"

He shook his head, "You're here now talking to me…I assume this is to make some kind of deal?"

"I actually wanted to play some more games. You're entertaining to talk to. I have another riddle to ask you. Nobody I've ever met has gotten this one right. This one in particular applies closely to your situation. Answer it correctly and you'll be one step closer to convincing me to help you. Care to play?"

'Not really…' he thought to himself.

"If you insist on it…" the librarian trailed off.

"Very well…you're traveling along a webway path with a group of your freed slave friends and other temporary allies. Everyone is deferring to you for decisions about where to go and what to do. Your group is being pursued on foot, and you do not have much time to waste. As you progress, you eventually come upon a fork in the path. There are two webway paths diverging ahead of you. In front of each is an Aeldari guide. Both are painted in the colours of Iybraesil…but you can sense that one is not truly from that craftworld. You're unfortunately unable to determine which one it is. One path leads to your escape and salvation, and the other leads to certain death and damnation. Of the two guides, one tells only truths to you and other only lies…you have time to ask one question before you are forced to choose a path. What do you do?" She asked cryptically.

'She's asking me scenario-based riddles now? Damn…I have to think about this one for a minute,' Seiras thought over the situation.

'If one always lies and one always tells the truth, then I wouldn't be able to figure out which is which with just one question. But if I asked either guide what the other would say…I could just pick the opposite,' Seiras thought over the question a bit longer.

"I would ask one of the guides, 'what path would the other guide tell me to pick?' and I would choose the opposite one," the librarian answered.

"Correct…if you asked the liar what the other guide would say to pick, they would lie and point at the wrong door. Choosing the opposite would save your life. If you asked the honest guide what the other would say, they would point to the door the liar would suggest…meaning the opposite is true in either scenario. Interesting…" Aenaria trailed off silently.

"I understand the riddle, but how does that apply to my escape at all?" Seiras wondered.

"Making your own decisions is very important. You can't be wholly dependent on someone else to know what's best for you or your goals. To walk blindly along a path that another has sent you on is to be livestock. They hold all the answers and all the power. Even if I were to help you escape, you would be wholly reliant on my loyalty or honour. Knowing what you know of Aeldari, could you safely make that wager?" Aenaria mused.

"Sometimes you have to spring a trap to draw out your enemies. Sometimes you have to play a game with unfavorable odds to win. I'll tell you one thing though, Aenaria. I'd rather try and fail than do nothing," he replied.

"I suspect a greater cause drives you forward…something more than just your life or honour. A typical space marine would sooner die fighting than attempting to be as deceptively cunning as you are. Tell me, Seiras…what motivates you to betray your own beliefs in this place? Why are you playing this long game? Even if you escaped, wouldn't you be deemed a heretic?" she asked.

"I might tell you after you help me get out of here," he countered.

Aenaria's gloomy voice lightened into a short laugh as she responded, "Smart move…never play all your cards before you know your opponent's hand. You're wise to not trust me…because for all you know, I could be the shadowseer casting illusions on you."

"Only you would know about the candle though…" he responded.

"Perhaps…but you'll never know for sure, will you? For all you know, she could pretend to be me, help you escape, and then abduct you for the Black Library…only she would know about that, wouldn't she? Unless I overheard? Don't simply assume you can differentiate me with my blank aura either. A shadowseer can twist your mind into sensing it." Aenaria followed up.

Moments later Seiras almost cringed when he saw Aenaria transform into the shadowseer's appearance. She spoke with the shadowseer's voice much to his horror, "For all you know, I'm not even Aenaria…"

"So you're saying I shouldn't trust you from here on out?" he asked.

"Exactly…this is the point of that riddle I asked you. Say we're escaping, and you see another me. She could be Aenaria or the shadowseer. Maybe even a daemon too. The real me will tell you the truth and the fake me will lie to you. Remember that…" she said distantly.

Seiras nodded, "I will keep that in mind."

Her appearance shifted back to Aenaria's as the solitaire took a step closer, "Good…one more thing. If you truly wish to win me over, then win this game and succeed in your goal. If you do, the real me will be there when you need me the most."

"So you will actually help me then?" he confirmed.

"That all depends on whether or not you prove you're worth helping. I'll be watching you space marine." She answered.

"Before you go Aenaria, I have one more question…what does the shadowseer want with me? What would I be subjected to in the Black Library?" Seiras wondered.

She stared at him behind her horned mask as she tilted her head. The solitaire spoke softly, "Hold out your hand…"

Doing as instructed, Seiras raised his hand for her. Before he even realized what had happened, Aenaria delivered a light cut over it to draw out blood. He watched with fascination as it evaporated into a magical light around her own fingers.

She looked at it briefly before responding, "You can control rubrics…that would be an invaluable asset for Cegorach."

"What?" Seiras asked confused.

Aenaria didn't answer as she shook her head, "They definitely won't give up if that's why they want you…be wary of harlequins Seiras. Don't trust any of them…even me."

"Did they know I was here before they arrived? Do they know who I am?" Seiras asked concerned.

The solitaire was silent for a moment as she stared at him, "I would not be surprised if the shadowseer was aware of some anomaly here. She does know that you spoke to me..."

"What would the other harlequins think about you betraying them and helping me?" he wondered.

"They would assume my madness seeks a different goal and try to outplay me. If you're asking would they try to kill me…no. This is a game," she responded.

"Mokaela, the succubus, told me that all harlequin names have meanings. What does your name mean? Why were you reluctant to tell me at first?" the librarian asked.

"My name pays homage to an Aeldari king from the ancient mythology of our race. This goes back even before the days of Eldanesh and the War in Heaven. Aenaria has multiple meanings when the name is broken apart. It is also the feminine variation of Aenarion. In a simplistic overall translation, that name literally means 'Heavenly Cursed King' or in my case 'queen'." She answered.

"Why were you named after this ancient king? Why was he cursed?" Seiras wondered.

Aenaria shook her head, "I've already said too much. If you end up in the Black Library, you can ask them."

Before he could ask any more questions, Aenaria disappeared into nowhere causing all the light to come back and the elevator lift to start moving again.

Seiras felt a bit of anxiety thinking about the recent exchange as he contemplated on what she said to him, 'I can control rubrics? What the hell does that mean?'

His mind wandered over the vague explanation for the remainder of his descent. When the elevator lift finally reached the bottom level once again, he wasted no time leaving and looking around.

To his surprise, Sylea was waiting there for him but Sorellia was not. He honestly felt a bit relieved that the banshee wouldn't be seen entering with him as he turned his gaze upon the Sororita.

Sylea looked up at him confused, "What did they want to talk to you about my lord? The incubi don't really talk to anyone from what I've seen. It was quite strange."

"Nothing important that you need to know about. For your own safety, I probably shouldn't tell you anyways," the librarian replied.

She nodded understandingly, "Of course…so I am yours to command from here on out. If you want me to take care of chores for you or…please you in other ways then just let me know. Serving an Astartes is a great honour, and I would gladly do it even if Maeralya didn't order me to."

"I've already committed enough heresy in this place. I could use your help, but you're more useful to me as a combatant than a concubine," he replied dryly.

Sylea looked away, "Of course…but just know that I'm not one to question your moral decisions here. I've been subjected to my own fair share of heresy as well. I won't judge you for doing what you have to do. This is our lot in life now. The only shame I feel is disappointing the Emperor. I would feel no shame in doing whatever I can to make you happy. In fact it would bring me some solace. My door is always open for you, my lord."

"Duly noted...your sincerity is appreciated," Seiras responded.

"Do you think we'll ever get out of here one day?" she asked hopefully after an awkward silence.

'I shouldn't reveal any secrets to her. No doubt Maeralya will try and find a way to torture information out of her later. It's best to keep her in the dark for now,' Seiras thought logically.

"I believe the Emperor saved me for a reason. I believe I have to survive in this place no matter what. Something far more important than my honour or my pride is at stake. All we can do is stay alive for now and hold on to our faith that there is a light at the end of this dark tunnel," the librarian deflected her question.

She seemed to realize that Seiras didn't want to talk about escaping and decided to not pester him with it. Sylea tilted her head at him curiously, "When did the Emperor save you?"

"We were in the warp on an Emperor Class Battleship. All of the navigators were dead and I had to pilot the ship in their stead. I couldn't find the Astronomican, but a voice showed me the way," Seiras answered vaguely.

Sylea looked awestruck by his claim, "You heard the Emperor's voice? Truly?! I suppose an Astartes has no reason to lie about such a thing. That's quite amazing, Lord Seiras. Is that how you've kept your faith all this time?"

"Partially…I have my own reasons as well, but I would prefer not to speak of them right here. Come with me, Sylea…I have a dark corner in this slave chamber where we can avoid the other slaves. We'll speak more over there," the librarian changed the subject.

As the two of them walked towards their destination, they encountered a random few slaves here and there. News quickly spread that Seiras was back as most people cleared out ahead of them on the walk. Not one person dared to approach the scantily dressed Sylea considering she was in his company as well.

'I doubt anyone would try anything with her in this slave chamber. Granted I should probably try to introduce her to those Cadians so that they can take her off my hands. I can't have Sylea around when I'm interacting with those exarchs,' Seiras thought over the next few steps.

"Hey, Lord Seiras…what do you think of Sorellia? I'm surprised you haven't asked about where she went yet." Sylea drew him from his thoughts.

He glanced over at her and responded, "It doesn't matter where she goes. She's a banshee exarch…nothing is a threat to her in here except for me. I assumed the alien wanted nothing to do with me when I saw that she was already gone upon my arrival. She'll reappear eventually I'm sure…especially if she wants more clothes from you."

Sylea looked at the librarian nervously, "I…I know that's heretical and downright unheard of, but I don't hate her. You should see the way they treat her…it's even worse than what Maeralya and Faelan do to us. She may be an alien, but I wouldn't wish that fate on anyone. Sorellia at least deserved a clean death."

"You don't have to justify your sympathies to me. You're not the only person that's found empathy in unconventional places…regardless, I have a question for you. Does Maeralya expect you to spy on me down here?" Seiras replied.

The Sororita shrugged, "I don't know…but I'm guessing that's bothering you, huh? You don't think you can trust me, do you?"

"It's not that I don't trust you…it's just that I know the Dark Eldar have a way with extracting information from their victims. Don't take my distance as mistrust…it's only for your own benefit," the Blood Raven explained.

Sylea smiled at him surprisingly, "You actually care about my well-being here?"

"I do…" he trailed off somewhat awkwardly.

"Just out of curiosity, Lord Seiras, why did you pick me out of all the girls? I'm not really the prettiest one out of the bunch." Sylea asked slowly.

Seiras glanced at her again and pointed at her face, "You're a sister of battle…I was surprised to see one in this place. A witness to my sins…"

"Do you have a history with other sororitas?" Sylea wondered.

"I do…I'm on good terms with a Canoness Commander and her sororitas from the Order of the Valorous Heart. They were part of the task force I was in. When I saw you…it made me wonder if they would have been subjected to this fate had they been captured. During the Dark Eldar raid on Corun, they volunteered to come with my Deathwatch Kill Team, but the Inquisitor told them not to. In hindsight, I'm thankful she did now…" Seiras elaborated.

"Amazing…a Canoness Commander was with you and an Inquisitor?! You must have been someone really important then," Sylea beamed.

The librarian shook his head, "Not really…I'm just an epistolary who specialized in Eldar technology and was recruited by the Inquisition for both my experience and knowledge. Enough about me though…where did they abduct you from?"

Sylea frowned, "A shrine world called Persephone…we were cut off from the Astromican, and that made it impossible for the Imperial Navy to bring us reinforcements. Most of my fellow sisters died before capture, but as a Hospitaller, I was one of the last ones alive. They were able to capture me relatively easily. One of the archon's dracons took a real liking to me…I think his name was Daeyal."

"I killed a Dracon Daeyal and his vanguard before Faelan captured me. If that makes you feel any better…" the librarian trailed off. He could tell that the memory of her capture was very unpleasant for Sylea.

"If only you could kill Faelan, Meela, and the rest of those monsters too…" Sylea said with a solemn stare ahead.

"Why Meela as well?" Seiras asked carefully.

"Meela is evil…" Sylea spat without any explanation.

Seiras sighed, 'This escape plan gets more complex by the day. I wonder if I should try to take Meela with us too? I'll definitely need to get a better gauge on where her loyalty lies first.'