Tayrathi stared into the night at the rolling plains of Ellyrion, clutching the banner entrusted to her tightly in a single elegant, but powerful hand. The wind pushed the grass which appeared to be a liquid silver due to the waxing of the moon Mannslieb while its smaller counterpart Morrslieb wanned. A calmness touched the land despite the invading army of Druichii which was camped a hundred yards behind her.
It was due to the unequaled power of The Hag Sorceress of Ghrond that she and the army behind her stood on these plains without so much as a scratch. Morathi had sacrificed her choicest slaves, and a few of her best Sorceresses to create the portal that allowed the army to walk between the worlds of Naggaroth and Ulthuan.
Her and the army's goal was to raid The Kingdom of Ellyrion, stealing their steeds of darkest night and riding them back to the outer coast. There, in two moons' time, they would meet up with the Black Ark known as The Citadel of Spite which would ferry Morathi herself and a fresh army for the full invasion.
“Your expression betrays your thoughts Bride of Khaine…” said the figure appearing beside Tayrathi’s side.
“A pleasure as always Sorceress Drusala”. Tayrathi responded ignoring the prodding comment. “What brings you so far from camp at this hour?”
“I could ask the same of you Death Hag.” Drusala snapped. “Your mind is as turbulent as the court of Malekith. I need to know your thoughts and ensure your commitment to the task set before us by The First Sorceress, Morathi.”
Tayrathi paused for a breath to consider her response. Any lie she uttered would be detected, but showing weakness could be a death sentence within Druichii society. Weighing her options she decided to press her luck and try openness. “Ellyrion was the homeland of my family before the sundering. I feel a kindred with this land and the horses that run wild here that I cannot deny. My hatred runs deep knowing my family was forced to flee their homeland for the sin of following the true Phoenix King.”
Drusala let the moment linger, but appeared satisfied with the answer. “Use your hatred and never forget what was taken from all of us. I foresee that you may have a more significant role to play in this grand performance, but for now, slay the hated Asur and spread their blood across these plains in Khaine's name.”
Tayrathi was taken aback but doubted the sincerity of Drusala’s words. “I am a Bride of Khaine and any part I play in this ‘grand performance’ will be by Khaine’s blessing.”
A moment passed between the two before Drusala broke the silence. “Come Bride of Khaine. Show me the extent of Khaine's blessing upon you. It is time to kill some Asur.”
The two turned, walking back to the encamped army, the blood-red sun began to rise over the horizon.