The Sand Reavers

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Scouting

Sheleden knelt over the broken, stone snakes. holding up shattered pieces. After a short while, Talthine and Jaylis approached, engaging him in quiet conversation as Virathia watched on. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see The corsairs and mercenaries set up a defensive perimeter and Vedethar's scouts roving, whilst Katherya and Aartheia seemed intent on arguing who ahd contributed more to killing the snakes.
Talthine came up to Virathia, who kept a firm hand on Tyrant. The Cold One was understandably agitated.
"I see we have nothing to fear so long as your companions remain with us. Aratheia was quite enjoying herself."
Virathia glanced at the Witch Elf acolyte. "Quite so. Khaine requires she....indulge herself."
Talthine smiled. "Or maybe she just wants to impress Katherya."
Virathia couldn't quite argue at something she agreed with. "Perhaps."
"Katherya herself did well, too. It is well we brought her along."
"My sister will be pleased to hear that. Now, what were those things?"
"Sepulchral Stalkers," Talthine answered. "Guardian constructs that can be left in the sand for centuries, awaiting the right time to strike."
Virathia raised an eyebrow. "And a troop of Druchii, including tow fearsome sorceresses, was the right time to strike?"
"As you could see, Katherya and I, and Aratheia with the pendant's help, appear to be the only ones capable of hurting them." Talthine looked at Jaylis, who now seemed to be arguing with Sheleden. "The Stalkers may even have provided information to their masters. All in all, we should keep moving. Hekarti demands."
Aratheia and Katherya approached now, both grinning.
"Khaine will be most pleased with my destruction of the snakes," Aartheia said.
"Only because I drained out their souls," Katherya replied.
Aartheia frowned. "I cut them apart. My kills."
"You both did a good job," Virathia interjected. "Sister, I need you to work on your detection abilities. Try to sense these things from further away."
Katherya nodded. "I saw what happened to the corsairs."
"Come with me, my student. There are things I know that could help," Talthine said.
Aratheia drew up beside Virathia as Katherya departed. "That was exhilarating. But I don't know if Khaine cares about breaking statues."
Virathia saw a glimmer of doubt in Aartheia's eyes she wouldn't have believed if she were told about it. "You were perfectly willing to claim it all against my sister."
Aratheia sighed. "Katherya is Katherya. In the end, we worked togetehr. We like annoying one another."
"They were enemies, you killed them," Virathia offered.
Aartheia smiled. "That may suffice. Cytharai, never thought I'd need your advice."
"Always happy to listen. You and Katherya can come scouting with Vedethar and I, if it would make you feel better."

Virathia had Tyrant walk over to where Sheleden was talking with Jaylis. The corsair captain nodded to her.
"Master Virathia. That was quite the experience. Thank Mathlann your sister was there."
"Thank Mathlann indeed. Or perhaps Hekarti. Either way. we were fortunate they only did as much damage as they did."
Jaylis' expression was grim. "They killed several of my corsairs. We don't have the numbers for attrition."
"You're right. I'm going to go scouting with Vedethar, see if we can find the tomb city and find a way in before too many incidents."
"And not run into the Nehekharan army," Sheleden pointed out.
"That, too," Virathia agreed. "Sheleden, will you come with us? You seem to know a lot about Nehekhara."
"I've been here before," he replied. His eyes grew distant. "Decades ago. Before I came into your house's service. I saw many things. Wonders. Terrors. Both at once. I hope this is enough of a taste of Nehekhara to destroy any misconceptions you may bave You should also know that the Necrotects are builder-wizards, as far as I can tell. They love their statues."
"We'll deal with that in good time," Virathia assured him. The idea was terrifiyng. What sort of builders could make these things?
"And make sure your sister remembers where she is," Jaylis added. "We can't have two lovebirds deciding they have something better to do."
Virathia choked. If Katherya and Aratheia decided they did have something better to do, she'd kill them both.

The desert wind blew away Virathia's concerns as she rode with Vedethar and his Cold Ones. It was a fearsome troop, a pack of vicious, elf-eating creatures just barely tamed, their riders' capes billowing in the wind. Katherya and Aartheia rode front with her, seemingly enjoying themselves too. It was shortly before dawn, the first tinges of sun breaking over the horizon. Soon they'd have to turn back and rejoin the main force. Nehekharan days were just too hot for Naggarothi to do anything.
Suddenly, Vedethar and his unit halted. Virathia and her companions drew up their steeds alongside him.
He pointed , and Virathia followed him. In the distance, she could see tiny silhouettes. For a second she thought they'd gotten turned around and this was the Druchii. Then she heard a low, dead sound echoing through the dunes, whistling across the sand. This was the Nehekharan army. Further beyond, Virathia could just make out a huge shadow that may have been mountains, or...
"Is that the city?" she blurted.
Vedethar nodded. "Yes, Master. The army is marching towards the Nehekharan city. Though as friend or foe, I don't know."
"le'ts go and kill them now," Aartheia suggested, probably out of boredome.
"My sister can't destroy a full army of Nehekharans on her own, and neither cna you," Virathia told her sternly. "
"Talthine would be so impressed if I could," Katherya said wistfully. "But now we know where we are going. Do we shadow this army, or return tomorrow night?"
Aratheia laughed. "Whatever. The sooner we start killing them, the better." She punched Katherya's side. "Don't let Talthine kill them all before I've got the chance."
"There'll be more than enough for both of us," Katherya replied sweetly.
Virathia, not knowing whetehr to be more happy or digusted, turned to Vedethar. "We return tomorrow night. Find a way into the city."
At that moment, a swarm of scarabs scuttled and scurried nearby.
"Sister?"
"i don't know," Katherya admitted. "I can sense some magic, but it's dark and twisted out of shape. Best get back to the main force, I think."
"Agreed," Aartheia said unexpectedly. "Very much agreed."

 

[Unas the slayer]

never trust scarabs in Nehekhara...

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Missing

Woken by rough shaking, Virathia open her eyes to the blazing Nehekharan sun, the raiding force having sheltered within a rock formation. She pushed herself to her feet as she saw it was Katherya who had disturbed her.
"I hope there's a good reason for this, sister."
Katherya blinked, something that had to be sweat on her cheeks. "Aratheia's missing."
"What? When did this happen?" Virathia had no particular love for Aratheia, but one of her companions disappearing was embarrassing, and, to be honest with herself, she couldn't bear to think how Katherya must be feeling.
"We went to sleep together, as usual. Then sometime later I wanted to talk to her but she wasn't there." Katherya choked. "I looked about, searched around the camp, but she wasn't anywhere. Then I found two of the corsairs on the perimeter unconscious, and tracks leading over there." She pointed in the direction the Nehekharan army had gone. "What was she thinking, why would she go there?"
Virathia held Katherya. By Mathlann. Any other Druchii would probbaly have told her to stop being so weak. But since they'defended one another from the assassin, there was something between them. "Have you received any visions? Can you sense anything?"
Katherya shook her head. "Nothing. Sometimes Mistress Hekarti sends me word, usually I ahave to sacrifice something."
A subtle, just discernible scutting sound pricked Virathia's ears. She drew her sword and looked about, stabbing down at a scarab moving nearby. She picked it up and offered it to Katherya. "I know you prefer to do the sacrifice yourself, but..."
Katherya took the scarab and kissed Virathia. "Thank you so much, sister! Give me a minute to perform the ritual."

Virathia watched as Katherya sat on the ground,, shifted he robes to be more comfortable, and cut open the scarab with a ritual knife, whilst chanting words of power. Virathia felt power crackling about her, and an instinct told her to run. But she knew what Katherya was doing. Still it was a little disconcerting when Katherya's eyes opeend wide and her next words did not quite sound like her voice.
"The child of Khaine goes to meet the usurper. The cursed prince pursues her dark heart. Find her. Banish him. Meet the usurper." Katherya gasped, then collapsed onto the sand. Or she would have, if Virathia hadn't caught her and lain her out carefully, praying to Hekarti, Morai-Heg, anyone who would listen that she would recover soon, and that the vision meant something to someone.
"Master, I have to report - gods, is that Katherya?" Sheleden broke off and rushed towards the younger Druchii, touching Katherya's neck. "Her pulse is normla for a vision. She'll be fine. But I'll fetch Talthine just in case."
"Please," Virathia said.
"I've never heard you say that before." Sheleden frowned. "What is going on? I was going to report a perimeter breach. Two corsairs -"
"I know. Aratheia knocked them out before leaving."
"What? I knew the Khainite would get us all killed! She'll either die of dehydration or sunstroke, or get captured and lead an army of bones back to us." He glared at the sleeping Katherya. "If we do survive this, I strongly suggest making your sister choose her lovers more carefully."
"Don't blame Katherya. We don't know what Aratheia is doing yet. Please, go get Talthine, and Jaylis before she decides this is all my fault and kills us."

"This is all your fault, and I'm going to kill you," Jaylis snapped when she appeared before Virathia, her escort flanking her. "Only by the grace of Mathlann were my women just incapacitated, and your Witch Elf ahs shown herself
"Are you threatening your Master?" Virathia asked warningly. Out of the corner of her eye, Katherya was stirring, while Sheleden had his hand on his sword.
"Not at all. Cytharai, the Nehekharans will kill us all before I've decided what to do anyway."
"Are you going to kill me right now?" Virathia demanded.
Jaylis fixed ehr with a piercing stare. "You'll wish I had."
"Then stop going on and be constructive for once. We need to chase after her and rescue her before something happens." Virathia decided Jaylis was going to have to die first. She didn't think the corsair captain made empty threats. She needed to assert her authority before anyone else started thinking to hard about the circumstances.
"How do you propose we chase a single elf in this place?" Jaylis asked.
"I know," Katherya gasped out, rubbing her eyes. "Mistress Hekarti gave me a vision. She showed me where Aartheia's going."
"And I know who the cursed prince is," Talthine said. "Apophas, the Thousand Scarabs."
Sheleden nodded. "He seeks the darkest heart in exchange for his freedom from the Nehekharan underworld." He laughed dryly. "Perhaps he has waited this long because a host of Druchii confuses him."
"We have to go find her!" Katherya said desperately. "I have to find her!"
Talthine smiled. "Come, my student. I can help you deal with the prince." She flicked her eyes towards Jaylis. "And any other problems."
"Your help woould eb greatly appreciated," Jaylis replied, holding the sorceress' gaze.
"Mortal blades cannot harm him for long," Talthine announced. "We won't need the corsairs. But we could use the steeds to catch up."
"yes," Sheelden agreed. "The Master Virathia and her sister are my charge, so I shall accompany them. Vedethar can protect this site. Jaylis, stay here and make sure nothing else happens. The Nehekharans should be busy, but try not to wake up any more Sepulchral Stalkers."
Jaylis glared. "I suppose you approve these orders, Master?"
"Do as he said," Virathia confirmed. She then went to Katherya. "Are you able to fight?"
Katherya nodded, eyes burning. "I'll rip this cursed prince to shreds."

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - The Cursed Prince

Aratheia didn't notice the sand burning her feet. She didn't notice the sun raking across her skin. She'd gone through worse in her Witch Elf training, would go through worse. There was something about being dedicated body and soul to a god of murder that made physical pain an irrelevance. She pushed on through the desert, jumping from dunes to rock, keeping her eyes on the Nehekharan army ahead. Lord Khaine had told her to find the Tomb Prince who led this army, the usurper who coveted a throne. Soon he would have the city sealed too shut for the Druchii to get in by themselves. But if she could cause enough disruption, weaken the siege, clear a path to the secret entrance she was assured Hekarti had shown Katherya...
Katherya! Aratheia blinked. It had felt wrong to leave her companion behind, to make her worry. But this was something she had to do alone. Because this wasn't just about helping fulfill Katherya's vision. Khaine wanted her to do something else, something her beloved and Virathia wouldn't approve of at all.
She heard scuttling, and looked about to see scarabs swarming nearby. She felt a shiver go down her spine. There was something wrong about these ones, the way they moved, the way they appeared. Normally such creatures would be of no concern to a Witch Elf, let alone a Druchii with only the most basic survival skills. But these creatures disturbed her, and her hands drifted to her daggers.
Aratheia spat. She shouldn't let these things frighten her. Whatever would Katherya say? And she'd never hear the end of it from Virathia. Whom she planned to kill at some point anyway, but not yet. Katherya would kill her, horribly.
She shook her head and returned her gaze to the Nehekharan army, slipping behind a rock for protection. She was now close enough to make out massed ranks of soldiers, weapon-bearing skeletons clad in rusted armour and ragged finery. Amongst them were animal-headed statues carrying sickle-like weapons. Chariots and stone snakes - some with riders, some without - prowled the flanks. In the centre was a massive tent, proudly flying bright banners, surrounded by skeleton warriors in heavy, gilded armour. Out of the corner of ehr eye she saw a giant statue in leonine form. Then it stood up, making Aratheia jump. This was a full Nehekharan army? She wasn't concerned about the skeletons, but all the constructs looked concerning, and she still hadn't resolved whether any of these were alive enough for Khaine to care.
Beyond the army sat the city ,a massive complex filled with pyramid structures, great towers rearing up from the walls. A sandstorm raged between the army and the city. She'd have to find a way to get rid of that. SHow Katherya she wasn't the only one with tricks. Aratheia could never understand why she loved an acolyte of the goddess, and queen, she hated so much. She clasped the pendant she'd taken from Katherya. It felt wrong to wear Hekarti's trinkets, but this was Nehekhara, no place for half measures.
A buzzing filled her ears, stronger, longer than before. The ground around her seemed to be shaking as she jumped away from the rock. A huge swarm of scarabs burst through the rock, an endless swarm of the things pouirng through the hole. When they exited, they began pooling, congealing, forming into a new shape. After a short while laughter filled the air, seemingly coming from the (extremely) vaguely elf/humanlike form before her. Well, it was more like a head and pair of arms attacked to a spine of writhing scarabs than either elf or human.
Aratheia stumbled backwards. She was an acolyte of Khaine! She shouldn't be scared. She drew her daggers.


Greetings, child of Naggaroth. Acolyte of Khaine.
"Who are you?"
Scarabs scuttled around Aratheia's feet. A reaper of lost souls. A slayer of the heartless. A lost prince.
"Apophas?" Aartheia asked. "Are you the cursed prince?"
Yes. Long ago I was imprisoned and torn apart by scarabs. Apophas circled Aratheia, the clicking of his mandibles too close for comfort. Now I hunt for a soul as dark as mine so I may return. With the help of my once enemies.
"If you want a dark heart, go after Talthine. I know she's up to something."
I don't care about your petty quarrels. I care only that your heart shines like a beacon of cruelty in an ocean of madness. Now, I shall see if Usirian approves. Apophas lunged.
Aratheia jumped out fo the way, feeling cuts against her ankles as she landed. She looked down and saw the scarabs biting at her. She stabbed downwards, the pendant gleaming as her blades struck. Scarabs dropped. But there were always more. She cotntinued her retreat, knocking away Apophas' claws when he struck, just as he avoided her attacks. She could feel the adrenaline building within her. Soon the red mist would descend. She prayed to Khaine she would prevail.


A rather shorter one today, then.

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Usirian's Tally

Cut. Stab. Slash. Dodge. Roll. Overwhelming urge to kill and destroy. Aratheia had never felt so alive as she dueled the scarab prince. Reflexes honed by years in the arenas wrre just enough to keep from getting torn apart by deadly pincers and bitten by dozens of unnatural beetles. This was what she lived for, her first true challenge. It was no surprise to her that the madness had descended so quickly. She was doing Khaine's good work here, battling a foe that tested every part of her training. A red haze filled her vision as adrenaline, and perhaps something more, flowed through her blood. Glory to the Lord of Murder. Honour Queen Hellebron, his most devoted servant.
A powerful shiver ran down her spine as she rammed a dagger into Apophas' skull, about the only thing of him that could be called anything resembling normal. The talisman around her neck glowed bright blue.
Apophas hissed and fell back, a cloud of scarabs swarming around him.
You live for the kill, child of Khaine. You do not fight me because I am an abomination. You fight me because I am here. Usirian will approve of that.
Not caring who Usirian was, Aratheia pressed her attack, leaping forwards after Apophas. But she connected with air, the prince having shifted out of the way, and for a moment sheflailed against nothing, before regaining her balance and turning. In time to deflect a rush of scarabs, tearing them apart. Aratheia laughed with purely malicious joy. She would tear this creature apart, piece by piece. The Lord of Murder watched over her. The red haze was thickening. Her focus narrowed in. Only Apophas mattered.
Hurry up and kill me before your friends arrive, elf. Do not allow them to steal the glory.
Aratheia screamed. She couldn't let anyone else take Apophas. This was her kill. Hers! She charged again, unleashing a flurry of blows that the scarabs swarmed away from. As she rushed forwards, she felt tiny legs running up her ankles. She smashed down, feeling a satisfying explosion. A dust storm blew up, and it was not the red haze she ahd to worry about anymore. She twisted and lunged this way and that, searching for Apophas. The talisman burned bright blue. The sand shifted under her feet, making her stumble. This was as frustrating as having to listen to Katherya's visions or Virathia's plans. The thought of the two sent a rush through her. She wasn't going to let them steal credit. She didn't need them.
The scarabs swarmed around her, turning the sand into a sea of claws and pincers. Aratheia destroyed as many as he could, but there were always more. Apophas floated back,, laughing.
The desert consumes all, mortal. You sink beneath it, deeper and deeper, your attempts to escape only increasing your plight.
"Khaine's Dripping Hand! Get out of my head!" Aartheia screamed. The talisman glowedbrightly once more. The scarabs surrounding her fell away. She stepped over the smoking carcasses, towards Apophas. "To the underworld, now." Another wave of scarabs emerged from the desert, but Aartheia paid them no heed, even as they bit and scratched at her skin. Maybe there would be advanatges to wearing armour, or at least clothes. She stalked forwards, and Apophas stumbled backwards, his scarab body swarming in unnatural directions, but Aratheia continued until she heldher daggers at his skull. "Khainegives me this kill. As all others. He shall surely be impressed."
Yes, I imagine he will. Go on, finish me.
Aratheia rammed her daggers into his skull. The scarabs writhed and turned to dust. The skull dropped to the ground. The dust storm ceased.
Usirian waits for you, elf. The prince's voice was distant, fading. Tahoth watches.
Aratheia breathed heavily. She could feel the dozens of injuries she had suffered. They were inconsequential. But the ands around her were red. And what would Katherya say when she found her like this? She could hardly claim it wasn't her blood. Cytharai, Katherya! Please, Aratheia begged, her mind clearing. Let Katherya never know what she had thought in those moments of madness. And Virathia? Aratheia still had to kill her at some point. But she was Katherya's sister, which earned her some respect. Ugh, life had never been this complicated before she'd met that Khaine-cursed sorceress! Not that she regretted it. She shook her head. There was something she had to do now.
Where is this? a surprised voice called. What have you done?
The talisman glowed blue.
Aratheia smiled, imagining the look on Katherya's face when she found what she ahd done with her mistress' precious talisman.

The sphynx was huge. Enormous. Massive. It was fascinating. A cat's body, and a human's head. All rendered in blackest stone. A statue to rival the greatest works of Druchii or Asur. But this was no mere statue. No, Khaine had told her this was the key, the key to entering the city. She'd sarcastically asked if she were to ride the thing. Khaine had a better idea. As she approached the heavily armoured, finely decorated soldiers guarding it, she thought again this was stupid. She just wanted to kill everything. And if they being subtle, why not let Katherya and Virathia help? Because Khaine had needed her to fight Apophas first, which couldn't happen if she were escorted. Now, with the pseudo-life from the cursed scarab prince, this would work.
She held the pendant. It was dull, lifeless. For now. Aratheia crept as close as she dared to the sphynx, admiring it as much as she didn't want to. Wasn't Katherya the sentimental one? Never mind.
"Aratheia!"
She turned at the sound of ehr name to see Katherya and Virathia galloping towards her on their steeds, Sheleden and Talthine a little further behind.
"What are you doing here/" Sheleden asked. "You could have been killed."
"Could have. Wasn't. And I've got a lot more killing to do. Talthine, is everyone ready?" It was annoying to have to work with the sorceress, but none of the people closest to her would have approved.
Talthine nodded. "Vedethar's knights and Jaylis' corsairs are in position."
"In posiiton for what?" Virathia asked.
Aartheia removed the chain from around ehr neck and held up the talisman. "Hate to tell you this, dearest, but your mistress ahs been lying to you, a little anyway."
Katherya turned to Talthine. "Mistress?"
Talthine smiled. "Don't worry, my stduent. Not much. I sent Aratheia out."
"You what?!"
Sheleden's balde was at Talthine's throat. "Do not be so reckless with my wards."
"Stop it, both of you! I knew Aratheia could manage it. And she needed to go alone, because it needed Apophas. Now, am I going to ahve to explain everything, or shall we watch?"
"Thsi had better eb worth it," Virathia muttered.
Sheleden withdrew his sword, glaring at Talthine.
Khaine, this would be fun.

 

[Unas the slayer]

Druchii...
Must be really fun a journey with them. ;p

 

[Count Vashra]

They are unrepentantly evil nutcases on average, and the only 'evil' Warhammer faction with a purely cultural/historical, rather than 'inherent' motivation. Which is why I just love them. Sure, they may be petulant. But they're so arrogant about it. And their lines in TWW2 are just the best. Alongside the Tomb Kings, ironically.

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - City of Sand

Katherya knew that when she was older, she would be able to stare far into the future, destroy armies with a thought, and twist reality to her whim. None of that made what she now saw any less impressive. Aratheia, at Talthine's subtle behest, had just achieved. She watched in awe from ehr hiding place, where she and all the other Druchii awaited the signal.
Aratheia threw the blue talisman to the ground. When it landed, cracks ran through its form, and scarabs emerged from the sand amongst the Tomb Guard defending the Warsphynx. The scarabs bit and stung at the Nehekharans, most being crushed in returned. But a few ran through the armoured cordon, scuttling up the side of the Wrsphynx,.
When Katherya looked at the construct, she saw a great source of power, similar to the Sepulchral Stalkers but on much grander scale. It was a living statue. A living monument, Sheleden had said, to the gods of the desert. And now...
The Warsphynx sprang to life, lashing out at the scarab s swarming it. Such huge paws were never meant to fight such small creatures, and inevitably several Tomb Guard were crushed as it raged. The Tomb Guard turned to their erstwhile ally, and slowly backed away.
Then the talisman cracked some more, until it burst open in a blue flash and Prince Apophas swarmed out, his scarab body reconstructing in the midst of the Tomb Guard, They fought, Apophas easily dispatching the skeletal soldiers.
Your game amuses me, elves. For that reason alone I shall play along. But return here ever again, I shall claim your soul for Usirian. Then he summoned another swarmand headed towards the tent in the middle of the army. Whilst this occurred, the Warsphynx as still trying to trample scarabs. It knocked away a robed Nehekharan that had tried to attend to it.
Beyond the army, the gates of the city opened and a troop of chariots thundered out, followed by rank upon rank of Tomb Guard.
"That;s the signal, I think," Talthine announced.
Virathia nodded. "Everyone, whilst they're distracted, this is our chance to get inside." She nodded at Katherya and Aratheia. "Are you with me?"
"Always," Katherya replied, jumping onto her dark horse beside Tyrant.
"If I must," Aartheia said, clambering onto own mount, unable to hide her excitement, her eyes filled with bloodlust.
"Sheelden!" Virathia called.
"here, Master," he answered, riding up beside.
As they hurried into the city, followed by the corsairs, Katherya couldn't help but think of the Eye of Tahoth, and what surprises might await them. But they had to get in somehow, didn't they?

The city had been disturbingly quqiet and empty in her vision. Now Katherya almost wished that was still the case as she and her companions rode through the streets as dawn broke. Animal-headed statues walked, Stone stakes, some with riders, slithered. More regular Nehekharans patrolled as well. And sand. Sand was everywhere. It was a desert, yes, but this was not so much inevitable light layers of sand. This was huge mounds of sand that had to be naviagted around, thick carpets of sand that replaced streets.
None of that compared to the pyramids. The pyramids! Naggaroth was filled with dark towers and spiked walls. But this place, this was filled with golden structures ringed with wards and glyphs, stretching to points high in the sky. She could feel the power radiating from them. And in the distance, the centre of the city, the largest of them all. Surely there would be so much to take home from here.
"We'll be rich beyond measure," Virathia observed, admiring golden stairways and gold-capped columns. "I've never seen such wealth."
"Nor I, sister," Katherya agreed.
"I just hope we find something in our way to kill," Aratheia said.
"Must you spoil the moment?" Katherya snapped.
"You're being sentimental again."
"Do you still remember the way?" Sheleden asked.
"I recall the vision perfectly. I'll get us in."
They did indeed encounter some enemies that could not be bypassed, whom Aratheia gleefully killed, assisted by Katherya and Talthine's magic where necessary. At some point, Jaylis rode up beside Virathia.
"So this is a Nehekharan city? If we only take bakc half as much as I can see, this will definitely have been worth it. Maybe I won't even feel like killing you."
"Don't you dare," Katherya warned.
Jaylis held her hands up. "I didn't say anything!"
"Let's get inside a pyramid before someone kills someone," Sheleden muttered.

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Into the Pyramid

The door slammed shut behind Virathia,, but the corridor ahead was still well illuminated by torches set against the walls and a a faint glow. She turned to address her troops, now minus the Cold Ones which she had sent away once they were no longer needed.
"Druchii. We are now in the pyramid of Princess Amene-kate, ruler of this city. Many treasures lay deep within, but dangers also. Keep together, watch for enemies and traps, and we shall find wealth beyond all our dreams. Each of us shall be as wealthy as the highest lords. All this is ours now."
Virathia turned back and marched deeper into the corridor.
"Nice speech," Aratheia whispered.
"It never hurts to stir the troops' spirits," Virathia replied.
"You are most inspiring, sister," Katherya said.
"Well, I don't need speeches," Aratheia grumbled.
"Come on, Khaineite, it's fun to hear her like that."
"My Lord cares not for platitudes, sorceress."
Virathia held up a hand as Sheleden moved past them, to the end of the corridor. He ran a hand over the symbols carved into the door. Talthine joined him, and the two had a quiet conversation.
Jaylis cleared her throat. "Lord Sheleden, we are all aware of your vast knowledge of Nehekhara. But is it necessary to delay us? This corridor is empty of treasures, so we must keep moving."
"Indeed it is, captain," Sheleden replied, as a teacher to a child who had made a true but trivial point. "But we may not move through doors blindly, especially ones with defences, and Talthine has confirmed for this one."
Jaylis stepped back. "Deal with it, then. I prefer more...tangible problems to solve."
Talthine pressed her hand against the symbols and spoke soft words. Blue light ran through the markings, until they seemed to fade. "It is safe now."
Virathia, opened the door and walked through, followed by Katherya and Aratheia.

The door opened into a chamber filled with several aisles' worth of treasures. Some seemed mundane, such as figures of bows and chariots and household objects. Others were large piles of gold coins, scrolls filled with the glyphs favoured by Nehekharan writing, There were also skulls. Lots of skulls. And images of scarabs resembling a swarm scuttling around the walls. In addition to the door they ahd entered through, there were three other doors on the remaining sides.. Virathia had known the Nehekharans were rich, but she had never ventured into a pyramid before. If this was but one chamber, what else was there?
Jaylis and her corsairs quickly spread out around the room, seizing whatever they could. Talthine seemed to eb helping Katherya interpret the scrolls, whilst Sheleden watched the doors.
Aratheia folded her arms.
"What's wrong/" Virathia teased. "Nothing to kill?"
"I might just find someone very soon," Aratheia snapped. "I was hoping to fight something here. You know I'm not sentimental."
"No, you aren't. Well, I'm sure there'll be something to fight soon."
Fondness entered Aratheia's eyes. "I know Katherya is enjoying herself here. There's probably as much lore here as in the vaults at Ghrond."
"My sister is definitely having fun. Aren't you being sentimental pointing it out?"
Aratheia shrugged. "She's Katherya."
"How sweet."
Aratheia spat. "You're lucky she's your sister, sea-child."

When the corsairs ahd collected all they could and Katherya and Talthine had stored away the scrolls that interested them, a discussion was held on which door to go through. Talthien insisted they only go through one so she could protect them and deactivate any magical traps ahead, unless they split into two groups, one of which trusting to Katherya. Whetehr or not she emant it, the idea of trusting arcane protection to Katherya sufficiently disquieted Jaylis for her to agree to keep her soldiers together. After a little more discussion, Katherya revealed which door Hekarti had shown her. Talthine began work on the enchantments on the door, when Virathia heard a familair buzzing sound.
"Scarabs!" she called. Everyone except the two sorceresses drew weapons as hundreds of small bodies emerged from the ground beneath, snipping and snapping at the Druchii. Each one was easy enough to kill, but there were many, and it was a somewhat dark, enclosed space, making the work more difficult. By the time it was done, just about everyone was bleeding. Except Sheleden, who was a blur and did not anything touch him.
"Something to kill?" she asked.
"It helps," Aratheia agreed.

The door led up a flight of stairs that then turned around into another chamber, this one lined with sarcophagi, each ornately decorated. On the floor was a large inscription that Talthine translated as "Turn back, trespasser, and you may still survive."
"That's not happening," Aratheia snapped. She strode up to one of the sarcophagi and glared at it. "Is anyone in there? Or are you standing here menacingly."
"Don't provoke them," Sheleden said wearily.
Aratheia folded her arms. "Maybe I should. I'm here to kill things, not for treasure."
"There will be many to kill soon," Katherya assured her. She went to Aratheia and gently pulled her away. Just in time, as the sarcophagus snapped open, a horde of scarabs leaping onto Aartheia. Katherya's intervention prevented her from being swallowed entirely, but she still had several on her. Undaunted by their biting, she grabbed her daggers and fought back, but it was clumsy work and Virathia felt the need to go over and knock some off for her. She glared, but didn't complain about the help.
Katherya exhaled with relief. "I couldn't do anything. My magic..."
"I know," Aratheia said gently. "You don't have to do everything, sorceress."
Virathia looked into the sarcophagus, to see only a few dead scarabs. Properly dead ones, that was.
"No one touch the sarcophagi," Shelden warned redundantly.
Then Katherya dropped to her knees. Talthine rushed to her and held her. "She's having a vision. But not from Mistress Hekarti."
"Can you break it?" Aratheia demanded. "Get that liche out of my Katherya's head!"
"No. We'll just have to - oh, it's over."
Katherya staggered to her feet. "That hurt."
Virathia touched her shoulder. "It's over now, sister."
"What did you see?" Talthine asked.

 

[Unas the slayer]

On the floor was a large inscription that Talthine translated as "Turn back, trespasser, and you may still survive."
"That's not happening,"

funny how this can be read both ways...

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - The Vault

Katherya took a few deep breaths, then smiled at Virathia. "Thank you."
"What did the vision say?" Talthine repeated.
"I was in this room, except it was empty except for myself, the sarcophagi, and the liche. He appeared to me, and told me that we were about to discover the price of trespassing in Nehekhara."
It wasn't specifically threatening, but Virathai felt shivers run down her spine.
"We should keep moving," Sheleden said. "Before anything else wakes up here."
Jaylis nodded. "I want to see what else is hidden."

Virathia stalked through the corridors, increasingly frustrated by the lack of proper battle or access to anything of real importance. She saw Aratheia getting more and more agitated as well, not good in one taught from childhood knives were the solution to everything, and Katherya doing her best to calm her, whilst Sheleden, Talthine and Jaylis talked together. This pyramid was going to drive them all insane unless something happened.
Something happened almost as soon as Virathia thought it. Katherya stabbed the wall,, with a knife in evident frustration,. When she did so, Virathia heard a cracking sound. She looked up, seeing a fault line running along the ceiling. She stepped abckwards, trying to keep ahead of it, but it was too quick and soon a good portion of roof crashed down between her and the rest of the Druchii.
Coughing, she waved her arm in front of her until the dust cleared.
"Sister!" Katherya shouted.
"Sister!" Virathai replied. "Are you alright?"
"Yes. Aratheia's here, too. I can't see you!"
"Don't worry. We'll ahve to find other ways around."
"You, finding your way around this death trap?" Jaylis wondered.
""If I don't, you won't have to worry about killing me yourself, will you?"
"Good thinking. Corsairs! We find another route."
"Sheleden!" Virathia called.
"Yes, Master? Shall I rip Aratheia's head off for this."
"i'll do it myself, if anyone will. You and Talthine go with the corsairs. Katherya, Aratheia, go with them."
"Are you sure?" Katherya asked, worried.
"There's nothing we can do for eahc other right now," Virathia said gently. "We have to link up."
"Don't worry, Master," Talthine said coolly. "I won't let harm come to my student."
"See that you don't."

Trying not to distract herself too much with worry for Katherya and, to a lesser but still surprising extent Aratheia, Virathia marched forwards toward a door that seemed to depict a Nehekharan (except with an animal's head for some reason) holding a staff, with wriitng she wished Katherya or Talthine could translate for her. Not seeing much option, she opened it, blade and shield in hand, and adavnced carefully.
She entered into a vast chamber, filled with weapons, armour, larger than life chariots, smaller than life sphynxes, and a collection of miniatures representing the Nehekharan army, facing off Druchii army, in positions that resembled how a wargame might be played. Along the walls ran stacks of gold reaching up to the ceiling. In the rear, almost beyond Virathia's sight, a huge image of a beautiful young woman clad in gilded armour stood over the room. Amene-kate, perhaps?
Virathia had never seen so much treasure in ehr life. But Katherya ahd said the real prize would be the Eye of Tahoth held by the lLiche Priest. Still, this was enough to make enough wealth for herself, her sister and Aratheia, whose sharing in the profit of this venture was simply a fact of life given her closeness to Katherya.
"It impresses you, does it not? The wealth of eons?"
Virathia turned to see a decrepit, older than possible human clad in robes that seemed more wrappings for a corpse than religious attire. But given the state of Nehekhara....
The not quite corpse was accompanied by a squadron of ornately decorated and armed Tomb Guard, bearing halberds and shields with ease. Blue lights shone in their eyes.
Virathai felt a moment's fear. Then suppressed it. Katherya would never stop teasing her, and Aratheia would be even more uncontrollable.
In his hand the priest held a staff, that Virathia recognised from the image on the door outside.
"Welcome to the tomb of Princess Amene-kate. Although, soon she shall be Queen Amene-kate, thanks to your intervention. The trick with Apophas wand the Sphynx was inspired." His vocie sounded old, very old. Like the wind rustling parched paper.
"The Druchii claim the treasures of this pyramid." As much self-assurance as anything.
"Yes, yes." The priest waved a hand and yawned. "I'm older than this pyramid. Don't bother threatening me."
"Even now, my corsairs are scouring your tomb."
"Looking for a way in, more like. Stop lying to yourself, elf girl. Did you think you could walk into a Nehekharan pyramid and not face consequences?"
"You should make way for those with something to live for."
"Hm. Some of your ancestors were captured in Nehekhara a long time ago. Long stor,y but it's partly their fault we are like this. And those two you call companions - both serve mothers of the realm who stay alive through blood sacrifices. And your king writhes with the pain of rejection even now." The priest's eyes burned brighter. "Yes, that's it, rejection. You've been squatting all these centuries, trying to tell yourselves -"
Virathia had had enough. She would not have har people's honour insulted. She launcehd herself at the priest. halberds drove her back. She cut at them, but the eternal guardians were adept, if slow, and caught her every strike. She then realised she was being backed into a corner and leaped away.
"These warriors have traiend since before you were born. Need I say that?"
Virathia hid among the stores of gold. She needed an escape plan. She needed to get reinforcements and secure this place. She needed to find Katherya and make sure she was safe. Cytharai, what ahd goen wrong in her Naggarothi life that she cared so much for her? She stifled a laugh.
Her arms felt heavy, and armour sagged on her. She tried to take a step, but it was a massive struggle. What was happening to her?
Before Virathia properly processed it, bony hands wrapped around her and carried her away.

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Separated

"What were you thinking?" Katherya shouted.
"I was getting frustrated," Aratheia replied, eyes blazing. "Other than scarabs, there's nothing to kill here!"
Katherya exhaled. "There will be soon, I promise. But now you've gotten my sister cut off from her. Hekarti knows what danger she's in." Suddenly all te treasures and knowledge here didn't matter. What was the use if she couldn't share them with Virathia?
Aratheia gave an exaggerated sigh. "As much as I love your anger, sorceress, it won't help."
"She's right, Katherya," Sheleden said. "Stay focused. Try to sense where Master Virathia is, but don't let concern distract you."
"We've got enough problems in here without our sorceress apprentice falling apart," Jaylis agreed. "Talthine, where next?"
Talthine guided them through another set of corridors, finding another route to where Virathia had gone. Along the way, Katherya tried to suppress her fears. Virathia was capable and deadly, and wouldn't appreciate being worried about. And she couldn't fall apart in front of her teacher. She straightened out and walked more determiendly. She'd find and kill the Liche Priest.

An armoured skeleton stood before a door, wielding a halberd and a large shield that, in these confines, made missiles almost useless. As the Druchii approached, it adopted a defensive crouch. The Liche Priest's voice came from it.
"Daughter of Hekerti, I see you, as always. Do not think the Eye of Tahoth does not notice all. Do not worry, you shall soon be reunited with your sister."
Katherya released eh consciousness into the other world, seeking the Winds of Magic and binding them to her. At first she had been scared of the destructive power of the crushing togetehr of colours Druchii preferred, but she had grown to appreciate the power.
Then she heard a crash, and released her grip on the Winds, returning to a mundand view of the world. Aratheia stood over the Tomb Guard, wiping her blades, which would have been more effective if there wee any blood to wipe them of, with a smile.
"When will you learn, dear Katherya? You don't need magic."
Katherya didn't know whether to laugh or scream, be impressed or feel jealous. So she decided on both. "Aratheia! I was going to!"
"Too late." Aratheia gave her a kiss on the forehead. "Now, let's go find Virathia. What? Just because I want to kill her doesn't mean I'll let her rot here." Aratheia began to itch, scratching and clawing at herself. Moments later, her skin could be seen bulging and crawling, as if something were running about within. Then the talisman on her neck glowed brightly, and it stopped.
"Ow!" Aratheia exclaimed, rubbing herself. "What was that?"
"A lesser Curse of the Tomb,," Talthine explained. "You're lucky the talisman killed it."
"What are we supposed to do, not kill them?" Jaylis asked.
"Not at all. Give me a minute and I can enchant your armour to hold the cleansing magic."
Katherya held Aratheia, who seemed to be trying not to look scared. "You know we'll get through this," she assured the Witch Elf.
"Don't ever tell me not to let the bed bugs bite."
"Let's find Virathia before anything else happens," Sheleden said.

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - The Tomb Princess

Aratheia cut down another Tomb Guard, happy for the exercise. It had been torture moving through the pyramid's corridors, reliant on Katherya's guidance, with very little to kill. Now they ahd stumbled into a roomful of elite skeletons. They were slow and no match for her skills, honed in the arenas, but it was something to do.
This chamber held a squadron of galleys, shockingly actual size. She couldn't believe how much room was in this pyramid's chambers, but this was Nehekhara. The galleys looked, lack of water aside, as ready for war as the day they were built, sails attached to masts, oars running along sides, golden prows gleaming. For a moment, Aratheia wished Virathia were here to see this.
Cut. Thrust. Stab. Chop. There was an art to fighting skeletons. Stabbing did almost nothing to them, and shallow cuts did just as little. Which was annoying, because he style was built around quick thrusts and cuts, but she was adaptable, and a good number of the shattered bones beneath her feet were her work.
"Now I remember why we brought you along," Katherya said., glaring at a Tomb Guard until it exploded.
"If you say so. Hopefully there'll be something more impressive in the next chamber."
Aratheia killed the last skeleton and, before better judgement or anyone else could stop her, rushed through the door.

The next chamber was filled with chariots, hitched to skeletal steeds. Weapons, armour, harnesses and other equipment were stacked on the sides of the chamber. This was as impressive as the war galley chamber. Just how much was buried here? The relics of ancient civilisaations waiting to be restored to some form of not quite life and trample the living. Not that Aratheia would be trampled. But perhaps it would be for the best to get the Eye of Tahoth and leave before more troops woke. Not that she was scared. No Witch Elf was. But she didn't want to face a full army of undead horrors. And, looking at Katherya as she observed, wide eyed, the chamber, she felt she didn't want to let her be trapped her with the horrors either. Khaine, but where was this sentimentality coming from? Surely it was just the knowledge that Virathia would kill her if she failed her sister.
Out of the corner of ehr eye, she noticed elflike statues with animal heads, holding curved weapons. Before she knew what was happening, the statues leaped into life, going amongst the Druchii and cutting down corsairs with each swing.
"Talthine!" Sheleden snapped.
"Destroy these things before they kill us all!" Jaylis demanded.
Talthine spat the enchantment for the Chillwind. Ice appeared at the statues' feet, making them stagger and trip. Aratheia jumped on the nearest one, slicing at its neck. The talimsan glowed as it came straight off. The other sttaues recovered, but now the corsairs had a little room to use their bows, and with more Chillwinds, including from Katherya, the statues were disrupted again. Point-blank bolts pierced stone skin, creating cracks and fissures Aartheia, Sheleden and Jaylis exploited. Eventually all the things were brought down.
"Ushabti. Guardians of the sacred places," Sheleden noted. "We must be getting close."
"I certainly hope so," Jaylis muttered.
"So impatient," Talthine admonished.
"I hate statues," Katherya said.
"I've never had much time for fine art, either," Aratheia agreed.

At that moment, the opposite door burst open and two magnificent - for corpses - figures strode through, escorted by Tomb Guard. One was actually not a corpse, just extremely old, clad in robes, a crystal about his neck. The other was held together by bandages, with a golden face mask and golden armour bedecked with jewels She wielded a weapon just like what the statues had wielded.
The not quite dead figure rasped. "I present to you, Her Sepulchral Majesty, Tomb Princess Amene-Kate."

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Sorceress' Lament

"Liche!"Katherya exclaimed. This was the one. The one who had appeared to her, spoken to her. Taunted her. On his chest was the Eye of Tahoth, shining clearly to both normal vision and witch sight.
"Sorceress," he replied. Unlike the walking corpses, his eyes did not glow blue. They were just gone. As if he could live forever but not take what mattered with him.
"I see you, Liche. You think you are eternal. But my queen Morathi is older than you, and still a beautiful as the day she learned her art." She saw Aratheia glare at her in the corner of her eye.
"Do not invoke the name of the arch-sorceress, child. You stand wwithin my princess' tomb. Do not insult us."
"Can we stop talking and just kill them?" Jaylis asked.
Aratheia flicked a glance to her. "Am I dreaming, or are we in agreement?"
"Enough!" Amene-kate shouted. Her words echoed through the chamber, causing sand and dust to fall from the ceiling. She was as resplendent as a corpse could be. Her voice, unliek the Liche's, was almost that of a living human's. Her eyes shone bright blue with anger. "Trespassers! Presently, you survive because my Liche recommends a better use from you than your corpses."
"I shan't eb reanimated," Aratheia spat.
"We can't do that unless we prepare your corpse and soul frist," the Liche said. He frowned. "And considering that your souls go to another realm than ours, I don't even know...maybe we could experiment."
Katherya stepped between Aratheia and the Liche. "Don't even try it, mummy."
"We have something to offer you," Talthine said, in her sweetest voice. "Aartheia, if you would."
"Move aside, sorceress," Aartheia said, shoving Katherya aside. She stepped forward and presented the talisman.
"This can collect souls. I witnessed one of your caskets once, and was quite inspired." Talthien licked her lips. "I'd like to put it forward as downpayment. So you don't have to kill us right now."
"Just cast a Doombolt or something," Jaylis groaned.
"This is wrong. I'm still agreeing with you."
"Then you'll help me? Corsairs, shoot!"
A dozen bolts flew across the chamber, landing in a dozen Tomb Guards' throats. They dropped immediately. The remaining five surrounded their masters protectively as Aratheia charged towards them.
Talthine looked at Sheleden disappointedly. "We almost had something there."
Sheleden smiled darkly. "We did. Can you kill the Liche? Soul Stealer perhaps?"
"I'll try. Katherya, child. Will you help?" she asked as if she wanted the younger sorceress to hold a book she was too weighed down to carry.
Katherya nodded. Now was ehr chance for revenge. "Yes, Mistress. I'lll enjoy this soul." She closed ehr eyes and sought out her mistress in the Daemonic realm. They linked together, and wove their spell together.
When it was ready, Talthine gave the signal and they forced all the winds together into the strongest Soul Stealer Katherya ahd ever attempted, then directed it at the Liche.
The next thing Katherya knew was that she slumped to the floor beside Talthine, bleeding heavily, exhausted. Through half-closed eyes she saw Aratheia heroically fighting the Tomb Guard, with the unnecessary assistance of Jaylis and her corsairs. One after another Tomb Guard fell, Then the Liche raised his staff and uttered words of power. The corsairs writhed in pain, and all except Jaylis were cut down. Aratheia and Jaylis stood togetehr now, facing the Tomb Princess. Amene-kate moved quicker than any human should, almost as fast as Aratheia. Her weapon glowed in Katherya's witch sight as it arced through the air and slammed into Aratheia's chest.
The breath went out of Katherya's lungs. Her heart slowed to a crawl. She felt Sheleden's hands on her shoulders. What had just happened? Aratheia was never hurt. She had been raised by lifetime killers. To a god of murder. She couldn't be hurt. And, Katherya had always imagined the only person who could ever wound Aratheia would be Virathia, avenging an insult against her sister.
Aratheia stopped, looked at the blade in her chest, the blood seeping from the wound, pooling at her feet. She dropped tot eh ground, hands holding blades loosely.
Sheleden rushed into the battle, pushin gpast Jaylis.
"Child!" Talthine shouted. "Wake up. She needs you!"
Katherya heard her mistress' call. She wanted to get up and help. But she had used her strongest magic, and either the quirk of the Winds or the defences of the Liche had turned it against her. She closed ehr eyes.

She woke on the prow of the Soul Reaverr. That was a surprise. Had, somehow, she been removed from the tomb and taken backk? She looked up, and saw no moons. Or stars. The sea around was pitch black, glass smooth.
"Daughter."
She turned and saw Virathia. Or, at least, something that resembled Virathia. It looked like ehr sister, with ehr high cheeks, Master's uniform, sea dragon cloak. But her eyes were purple, and deep.
Katherya knelt. "Lady Hekarti."
In a voice that sounded like both Virathia and...something else, Hekarti withVirathia's lips said, "Daughter, you made it at last."
"Made it? Aratheia is hurt and needs me."
"When you wake up, don't tell hert hat. She'll kill you."
"I wouldn't mind. She has to be alive to kill me."
"Says the girl standin gin a Nehekharan pyramid."
Katherya rolled ehr eyes. It was highly disrecpectful towards a goddess, especially her favourite, but she was too upset to care. "Send me back. Let me finish this."
"Don't be in such a rush. Your magic is spent. Your body is broken. And your beloved - I never imagined one of Khaine's children would fall so hard fro one of mine, but there it is - is not yet dead."
"She's about to be. Please send me back!" Katherya had never begged this much before. She would give anything for another moment. "And Virathia. Where is my sister?"
"Imprisoned. Chained up. Even now languishing -"
"Stop using synonyms and tell me how to save my sister!"
Hekarti shrugged. "I love playing. Anyway, Sheleden and Talthine are negotiating so that they, you, Jaylis and Aratheia will be imprisoned instead of killed. Talthine is telling the Liche only she can use the talisman to bind souls. He wants it, because it's far more portable than the Casket."
Katherya didn't know what to say to that. "Why bring me here? I could be watching that."
"One, you're desperate and unstable. You'd have killed yourself." Hekarti removed the sea dragon's cloak from the body that looked like Virathia. "Two, you'll need this."
"How will it help? How will it manifest?" Katherya asked, taking it and trying it on. It felt a little like theft, because it looked exactly like Virathia's. But this was an illusion. And what little sister didn't steal from her elder?
"It looks excellent on you, daughter. When you return, you'll have all the protection you need to cast magic at the Liche without killing yourself."
"Why didn't you give me or Talthine this before?"
Hekarti smiled disturbingly. "My daughters must suffer and struggle before I reward them. You included. Now, wake up before they think you died."

 

[Unas the slayer]

Plot armor! ;p

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Impriosned

Virathia was shoved roughly to the ground, her knees slamming against the sand-dusted, hard stone floor, a bandaged bone hand at her neck. Her hands were bound behind her in iron cuffs, and her armour and beloved sea dragon cloak had been taken. Her sword had been snapped before her eyes. Now she was reduced to what could charitably be called rags.
She looked up at the figure on the throne before her. Wrapped almost entirely in bandages, except for a golden death mask with emeralds set into the eye sockets and golden armour visible beneath the lighter-wrapped parts. A curved, almost scythe like weapon rested in the figure's lap. The mummy was bedecked in more jewels than Virathia had seen in her life. The throne was flanked by two animal-headed statues wielding similar curved weapons. Tomb Guard filled the room.
"Dark Elf," the figure said, in a voice that sounded almost like a living human would speak. "Welcome to my pyramid. I am Princess Amene-Kate, ruler of this city." She laughed wickedly. "I should thank you for giving my forces the opportunity to destroy my brother['s. He escaped, of course, but is in no position to retaliate for now. I liked your trick with the War Sphynx."
"Happy to help," Virathia muttered. It earned her a blow to the head that left her ears ringing.
"I'll do the talking," Amene-Kate admonished. "You are my prisoner. By the will of Ptra, I suppose - it was quite fortunate your accomplice separated you from your force."
The mention of Aratheia made Virathia think of her and Katherya and the other Druchii. She hoped Aratheia and Katherya were safe, and supposed she wanted to see Sheleden again. But the others could go to the Underworld.
"I see your concern for your companions." Amene-Kate's mask didn't allow her to show emotion, but her amusement was clear enough in her voice. "Aratheia and Katherya are at my pleasure, as are the knight who is ever so determiend to protect you. And the elder sorceress and the leader of your troops. The others are all dead."
Virathia smiled grimly. How was she going to explain losing a crew of corsairs? At this point she didn't expect any treasures at all to make amends with. Even the Eye of Tahoth seemed out of reach.
"My Liche informs me you are here for his talisman, the Eye of Tahoth. I am afraid you won't get to take it. I am also informed you brought a talisman of your own only the sorceresses can use. They need encouragement, still, it seems."
Virathia was roughly brought to her feet. "You'll never get anything from hurting me. Aratheia hates me, and Druchii siblings have no tiem for one another. Talthine doesn't care about me either."
Amene-Kate sighed. "How disappointing. I thought your upbringing would make you a better liar."
Virathia glared. "Mathlann's wrath upon you, tomb spawn."
"Good luck with that, within the desert." Amene-Kate gestured. "Take her away. See if functioning fingers are necessary for the elven attitude."
"Dark Elf!" Virathia snapped. It may ahve seemed unimportant at the time, but she was not going to be thrown in with the Asur and Asrai. They had had their chance to bow before Malekith.
"Spare me."
Virathia was dragged away.

"Cytharai, you ahve no idea how to - ow1 torture anyone, do you? Khaine's Hand!" Virathia growled, valiantly trying to sound superior as her tormentors departed from the torture chamber, leaving her chained to the wall, staring at something that looked uncomfortably like a giant scorpion.
Her fingers hurt, badly. If she had time, they would probably recover, but did she? The scorpion's gaze, probably empty, seemed to be mocking her. Its large tail, stinger included, reared above. Unlike the battle constructs Sheleden had described, this was was only almost as tall as her, but it was still terrifying.
The walls were filled with image of enemies of the Nehekharans being put to sword or torch. Most disturbing was a large box, a Liche Priest attendant opening it across more scenes than was necessary, releasing trapped souls. A Casket of Souls!
Unbidden, Virathia's thoughts turned to home. Karond Kar, City of Slaves. Would she ever see its spires again? Here the screams of the unfortunate? Sail unto its great harbour? She shook her head. Forget Karond Kar. She needed to know Katherya and, yes, Aratheia were safe. A tear dripped down her cheek. She laughed bitterly at the irony. The breaking of her fingers had merely hurt. The thought of never seeing her sister again drove her to despair.
Time passed, and her throat grew sore and dry from lack of water. Was she simply to be left to dehydrate? Her legs were sore, too, after being upright for Cytharai knew how long.
As she thought that, the door opened and, Tomb Guard either side, Katherya entered carrying a waterskin.
"Sister!" Virathia exclaimed hoarsely.
"Sister! What have they done to you?" Katherya looked equal parts relieved and outraged. She pushed the waterskin to Virathia's lips,
She drank urgently, lapping up as much as she could before it was forcibly yanked away.
A reminder to you both the other is still alive. A state of being that can end at my command, the Liche said through the Tomb Guard.
"Go away!" Katherya snapped. She leaned forward again and kissed Virathia on the forehead before she could be restrained. "Gods, I can't believe you're still alive. Sheleden says he's going to kil you when we get out of here."
Virathia laughed. "He should leave that to Aratheia."
"She says she doesn't care. But I know she's scared for you. Don't tell her that, will you?"
"Not if I want a painless death at her hands. Now go and tell her I'm fine."
Katherya looked over the chamber, and eyed the scorpion. "Fine?"
"Alive," Virathia amended.
"Shall I tell you what happened after we separated?"

When the door shut again, Virathia slumped against the wall. It had been good to learn Katherya and Aartheia were still alive, but what were any of them supposed to do? The Liche's magic was stronger than her sister's, and Talthine's, and pure strength Aratheia-style wouldn't suffice. Surely Talthine would find a way out of it. And Sheleden. Jaylis would probably help, on the grounds of self-preservation if nothing else.
Hekarti? Khaine? Are you there for your most faithful? She opened her mouth but no words came out.

 

[Seneschal]

Intriguing! I like it!

 

[Count Vashra]

The Sand Reavers - Escape

This pyramid was going down. None of the treasures here really mattered, not even the Eye of Tahoth. Not at all. After seeing what they had done to Virathia, Katherya was angry. More angry than she'd ever been. Hurting Aratheia was bad enough. Now they had the temerity to hurt her sister.
Dark thoughts stirred in her mind as she was shoved back into her cell beside Jaylis, who favoured her with a murderous stare. The Nehekharans were clearly exploiting the group's dynamics, placing her with the corsair captain who blamed her for getting her soldiers killed, placing Aratheia with Talthine, and putting Sheleden alone.
"What are you angry about now, sorceress?" Jaylis asked.
"They're torturing Virathia. I can't let them."
"Did you even think for a second breaking into a Nehekharan pyramid might have consequences?"
"You came along with us."
"I trusted a sorceress and her apprentice to deal with any trouble we encountered." Jaylis looked her over. "You're just a petulent child, and for all I know Talthine is swapping notes with the Liche."
Katherya held her ground. "I'll fix this. I'll destroy everything. The treasure doesn't matter now."
Jaylis raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. "Really?"
Katherya set her jaw. "I mean it."
Jaylis folded her arms. She, like the rest of them, was reduced to rags, but that only exposed decades' worth of scars and made her seem even more threatening. "So what's your plan? Especially given the Liche can see everything we're doing? Actually, in that case, don't tell me."
"Don't worry, I have a plan." Mistress Hekarti?
I'm here, daughter.

Katherya was pushed to ehr knees in the throne room, as she kept her gaze on the Tomb Princess. Amene-Kate looked down at her. It was impossible to tell what she was thinking, her flesh long since rotted and her 'eyes' mere gems set into her death mask. But the way she toyed with the khopesh on her lap suggested amusement.
"You are aware now your sister still lives."
"Yes."
"That situation can end at any moment. You must soon give us what we want, or we dispose of her."
"Don't threaten my sister." Katherya spoke softly, but with more ice than she had thought possible.
Amene-Kate titled her head. "Or what? You can't hurt me. You're too weak to get through the defences here." She lifted up the khopesh and pointed it almost playfully at Katherya. "You may as well give me what I want."
"No."
Amene-Kate handed the khopesh to a Tomb Guard nearby, then rose to her feet. "Stand."
Katherya felt the bone grip on her neck disappear and struggled to her feet.
Amene-Kate approached and held Katherya's head up, forcing her to to look directly into her eyes. "Dark Elf. Do you even know how much I hate your people? We wanted immortality. True eternal life. But because of your magics, twisted and combined with ours, we are reduced to this. I've always wanted to meet a dark sorceress. To see the sort that brought our ruin."
"Well, what do you think?"
Amene-Kate released her grip. "I think you are the greatest treasure I have ever discovered. You're young enough I shall have centuries to torment you. Unlike most of your kind you have companions I can hold against you. Maybe I should thank Ptra for bringing you to me."
\Katherya spat. "I shan't be your trophy." Others were prizes. Not Druchii.
"Give it a century."
Katherya's hands chafed in their bindings. Alternatively, she could work this to her advantage. She gave the sweetest smile she could. "I cannot possibly resist you, Your Highness. Perhaps we do not need to be so unreasonable?"
Amene-Kate laughed. "I am in an accepting modd. I have had one once or twice before. I am glad to hear you accept the futility of your situation."
"You're going to have to disarm me, though."
"What weapons do you carry?"
"My magic. You said it couldn't hurt you. I'd hate to test that. By accident, I mean." Katherya had never expected to try to sweet-talk a captor, but needs must.
Amene-Kate nodded. "That would be a shame, wouldn't it? I'll have your powers removed."
Are you sure this is going to work?
Stop worrying, Hekarti admonished gently.

The Liche appeared in the throne room, looking intrigued.
"I want this one's magic removed so she is safe to keep," Amene-Kate said.
The Liche smiled. "Yes, Your Highness. I would like to experiment with her, too. The serpent must be defanged. The scorpion's sting removed." His blue eye light glower, and he spoke incantations of power.
Katherya closed her eyes in pain, or perhaps concentration, as she felt fingers of sand brushing over her. She felt as if she were stepping into a river of time, currents ready to wash her away. She felt the power seeking hers, the Liche's words filling her ears, her soul. Her heart. She hoped Hekarti was not just teasing her. She didn't want to be an ornament, or an experiment. She heard Virathia applaud her cunning, scold her risk. She heard Aratheia scream for her. She heard Sheleden tell her to keep steady.
Then she heard screams. Her eyes snapped open. The Liche staggered backwards, the husks of scarabs from Khaine knew where littering the floor. She felt the chains gone from her hands. The Liche raised his staff again.
Katherya laughed. A cruel laugh she had longed to deliver to these corpses. "Don't bother, dead wizard. My goddess of magic stands with me. Or did you think I would so easily give up my power and submit to a life of...ornamentation?" She reached into the Realm of Chaos, drawing forth a surge of power of such size even she was surprised. She pointed at the Liche. It was unnecessary, but she was enjoying herself. The Soul Stealer curse slammed into the dead sorcerer. His staff exploded under the strain, then his skin began to fall away. His bones too disintegrated, leaving only a heap.
"Stop!" Amene-Kate commanded, somehow sounding entirely confident. "Your power will not last. There are other Liche Priests. You are hungry and tired. And if you strike me down, I shall destroy you before returning to slumber. I might even fidn you again when I have woken."
"That's for later." Katherya saw approvingly the Tomb Guard collapse lifeless, without the enchantments of the Liche. The ushabti beside the throne sprang at her, but she called up a storm of blades that sliced through them , tearing to shreds. "Do not underestimate the power of Hekarti." Katherya knew what the princess ahd said was true. Her power was a gift from the goddess and would soon expire. But she had never felt so powerful. So in control. She wished Virathia or any of the others were here to see this.
As she thought this, the doors crashed open. Sheleden, Jaylis and Talthine burst in from either side, Aartheia, bandaged where the princess' khopesh had struck her, carrying Virathia, who looked even worse than last time Katherya gad seen her.
Amene-Kate looked around her, and growled. "Fine. All of you shall sufffer my curse. Except you, Katherya. I have something planned for you."
"Don't address my lord and lady's daughter like that!"" Sheleden bore down on the Tomb Princess.
"Stop!" Talthine shouted. "Whoever kills her will die, too. Or suffer horrible wounds."
Sheleden halted. "Then what do we do?"
"Not kill me," Amene-Kate suggested forcefully.
Katherya rammed ehr hand over her mouth. "You, hush!"
"If we can't kill her, we can knock her out and tie her up," Jaylis suggested.
"Good idea," Talthine agreed. "but I have a better one." She turned to Aratheia. "The talisman, now." It was duly given. "Your Highness, this is what your Liche was so keen on, other than Katherya. You can have it now." She held it up to her. It glowed bright blue. "Aratheia, it needs wounds to work through."
"Gladly." Aratheia grabbed a fallen khopesh and sliced off one of Amene-Kate's arms.
The talisman glowed again, and then Amene-Kate, screaming, was drawn into it.
Talthien whispered into the talisman, and placed it on the ground. "This will explode when the sun sets tonight."
"Sister!" Katherya, her power gone, feeling exhausted, rushed over to Virathia, who pushed Aratheia away in almost disgust, and clutched Katherya.
"I can't believe it. My little witch sister did this."
Katherya smiled.
"If nothing else, you can have what you came for." Virathia presented the Eye of Tahoth. "It was just laying here."
Katherya kissed her forehead. "I love you."
"I love you, too."
"Maybe we should have let the princess curse you," Aratheia said. Her voice lacked venom, and her eyes glowed with relief.
Katherya pulled her into the embrace. "Hush up. I love you too."
"Can we go now?" Jaylis demanded
"Mine," Talthine said.
Katherya handed over the Eye of Tahoth.

There were enough fine clothes laying about in parts of the pyramid to clothe all of them when they left, and between them they collected a good amount of treasure. They found Vedethar and his Cold Ones at the camp, and ordered an immediate return to Soul Reaver. He looked as if it were the best order he'd ever been given.
Katherya stumbled onto the deck of the ship, and staggered, with Aratheia's and Virathia's help, to her cabin.
The Witch Elf ran a hand through her hair. "Cytharai, I've never been so scared and excited in my life."
Virathai sat beside her. "Next time, we really should look up what we are dealing with beforehand."
Katherya laughed. "I saved us all. What are you worrying about?"
Aratheia slapped her. "It was your fault to begin with."
"Sister! Help!" Katherya laughed.
Virathia raised an eyebrow. "She's right." She yawned. "Let's get back to Karond Kar and get new crew. Even the little we recovered should be enough to at least replace everything and everyone we lost."
Aratheia touched the bandage on her chest. "I've never been hurt in battle before," she observed quietly.
Katherya kissed her cheek. "Khaine will be delighted. The scar will go well with the runes."


The Adventures of Virathia, Katherya and Aratheia will continue

 

[Unas the slayer]

It seems that Amene-Kate and the Liche Priest were victims of their own greediness and overconfidence...

 

[Count Vashra]

Quite. Never underestimate a enemy mages. Further, they were allowing their anger at the Druchii in particular to cloud their judgement.

And here's a short wrap up.

The Sand Reavers - Epilogue - Return of the Prince

The tomb city of Nemison gleamed under the morning sun as Prince Ard-Shen shielded his eyes from Ptra's gaze. Standing atop a chariott loaned from his soon to be lord, he looked upon the city of his birth and resurrection. He had expected to feel joy, pride, triumph when he returned to claim the throne. To finally drive his sister off his inheritance, make her submit to him. He had even borrowed a substantial amount of resources - including the Ussirian cursed (literally, apparently) Sphynx, from King Nectanis, his uncle, in exchange for becoming his vassal upon securing the throne.
The thing was, he was king now, Princess Amene-Kate disappeared. But that was the problem. She had disappeared, which meant she could be anywhere. As best he could make out, the Sphynx had begun to rampage, under the influence of that carrion prince, Apophas, then her army had come out to face his. In disarray, Ard-Shen had been forced to withdraw. A few days later, he had heard reports that Amene-Kate's army had simply fallen apart, as if the magics keeping them in this world had been severed. He had ordered his priests to perform scrying rituals. invoking Tahoth, they confirmed the magics were gone and her priest dead. Most disturbingly, she too was gone.
That was annoying, and worrying. Had she just escaped? What had killed her priest? His scouts had reported a small number of elves fleeing towards a ship, clad in finery they had stolen from the tombs. Anger burned within him at the thought. No one stole from the Nehekharans. Even if their intervention had somehow given him entry to the city, they had trespassed. And, as much as he wanted to see Amene-Kate humbled, he had wanted to do it himself. Once he was secure at home, he had plans to make.

"Your Highness, shall we enter?"
Prince Ard-Shen looked to Priest Khefu, his most loyal servant. "Are you sure it is safe?"
"I have had my fellows scour for any traps, and even now they are restoring the magics. The army shall soon be yours."
Ard-Shen took his helmet from a nearby Tomb Guard - Ptra's blessing, he had saved a few from the Sphynx - and placed it on his head. "Enter the city."

His charioteer lashed the skeletal horses, purely for effect, and they began to move, kicking up sand. Soon, the whole host was moving forwards. Much reduced, it was still a formidable sight., surrounding the prince with its protective strength. At the back, the Sphynx followed almost languidly, as if knowing how much trouble it was in, watched over by the necrotects. It was a shame such a majestic war statue had been corrupted by Apophas, but that had been purged, the Scarab Prince banished to Usirian's realm. For now anyway.
Looking forwards, Ard-Shen put aside his doubts and allowed himself to be awed by what he was entering, gladdened to have won the throne after so many decades.