Castor takes the Verbum to go see Reshian, Champion of Tzeentch. Reshian is out on the Scarusian border, containing a confused counter-attack by Imperial forces why are trying to relieve pressure on Finial. With the enemy out of Astronomican range and with mighty sorceries at his disposal the Champion leads the Imperials on a merry chase. Castor persuades Reshian to hand over control of his forge-ship, the Manes est Fundibalus. Reshian sends his apprentice, Gaius the Scourge with Castor, to cement their alliance. Castor sends Uriel and his Iron Warriors to Reshian. Reshian also tells Castor part of the true name of the Maiden - Eisha - and explains that Nurgle cannot be allowed to take her.

The ship is the real reason Castor came out here - looking at his dwindling stockpiles (again) Castor know the time has come for him to control forges of his own, or fail at greatness. With the help of Archmagos Viniz-12 the ship is taken intact and purged of disloyal elements; in doing this Viniz breaks with his forge-masters on Epiphanet (the Reaving's main supply base) and casts his lot with Castor. He also pledges his support for a future Kull campaign.

Meanwhile Imran Dhral has released the bulk of the 10th Host to support Task Tak over Guytoga. The planet is in rebellion (result of infiltration) and the Imperium is acting to stomp it out. There is a great space battle and the Imperial fleet is broken and forced to retreat. Gains for the 10th are moderate, but losses are negligible (the Death Guard is another matter, they take quite the beating), all in accordance with the Warleader's plans.

Acting of his own volition the Warleader also contacts Baphomet when he sees two Fenksworld cruiser squadrons and the mobile battlecruiser reserve deployed to Guytoga. Baphomet immediately strikes at Fenksworld, benefiting greatly from this intelligence. The planet falls and there is much rejoycing (and quite a bit of loot sent Castor's way). Fortunately for Dhral the Apostle approves of both the battle and contacting Baphomet.