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Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/10 03:26:00


Post by: shinros


For my 8th edition army decided to work on emperor's children. Not a great writer still practicing apologies for the grammar and sentence mistakes.

The story center's on a slave who is captured by a emperor's children warband yet unknowingly to him the lord of the host is struggling to hold the warband together as they fall deeper into depravity. An apothecary trained by Fabius he also struggles controlling his aberration and the warband itself. Will one man change that?

Not too great with 40k lore pretty rusty please bear with me.
Chapter 1

The worker was pushing his cart of ammo powder to the dispenser living day by day doing the same work but the priests say this is his duty is it not? He was not a strong man he has been reprimanded for being slow and was forced to take reduction in pay, but he beared it. He lived in a sprawling hive city he has never seen the sky of Athor but in the end this was the life he knew. He worked in an ammo factory piling ammo dust to be filled in Ammo
cartridges.

The priests and the officer's say that he is doing the work of the god-emperor. The work that is needed to arm his soldiers to keep everyone safe from heretics and other horrors of the galaxy. They also had people on the worker lines filling ammo cartridges with powder. The factory was grey and grimy and the lights flickered at times but the worker paid no mind he worked here for years and was used to it.

Still, things never change he looked over to the officer shouting at Larry again they give each other nicknames at work behind the team officers backs a lot better than going by worker numbers. Still, the shouting continued “Worker 1033!, you are doing it wrong again! If our team is behind quota's they will have my hide! That means I will take my frustration out on you! That means a reduction in pay!” Larry scrambled to put together the ammo pieces he was having trouble pouring the ammo gunpowder into the case screwing the bullet on top. He stumbled at each step.

The team officer looked Larry up and down again “I am to motivate you dregs to work, but it seems you prefer to laze about, work incorrectly perhaps I should reduce everyone's pay for the week to teach everyone a lesson?” There were eyes darting and glares at Larry. The worker looked at Larry and sighed and cursed to himself for what he's about to do.
He finished pushing his last cart of ammo powder and walked over to the Officer he noted as always he had a pudgy belly a round face and no muscle could be seen on his body. The worker guessed he has truly not worked a day. He tried to put on a brave face but his voice came out meekly “Excuse me sir I am sure la- I mean worker 1033 is just having a bad day I noticed he is a lot better at moving the ammo powder and carts than he is putting bullets together. He normally can do two carts or even three bags of ammo powder with his big frame and I normally can put together ammo ten at a time, since I am rather good with my hands.”

The worker realized his voice was shaking, the officer eyed him up and down and spoke with venom in his voice "So you're telling me how to run this unit? You think that you can do it better than me? I was trained and placed in this position because I am trusted and had the skills to lead this unit. Who are you to tell me otherwise who simply pushes carts, hauls bags and fills ammo all day!?" The worker moved to respond "But sir I was just tryin-," the officer cut him off immediately "To undermine me! I have decided reduced pay for everyone this week! Back to work! And you!" The officer grabbed his arm and looked at his worker ID bound to his wrist "Worker 1024.... I will remember this be sure to be in work tomorrow." As he let go of his arm he wiped his hands with a cloth, to the workers eyes he was wiping his hands in disgust from touching him.

The worker cursed to himself, then he noticed everyone was glaring at him eyeing him he tried best to ignore them until work ended. Still, he could feel their anger at his back.
As the day ended if you can tell its day in the lower levels of the hive city the worker got ready to head home he got his coat and bags and headed out of the factory. As he stepped out he looked upon the block of his workplace. Other numbered people lumbering home heads down. Sometimes people go to Jimmy's bar to unwind the arbites like to make known that Jimmy's number is 1110, but the worker was not exactly fond of the place since gangs are known to frequent there as well. He looked up at the grey sky again, since he lived in the lower levels the only thing he or anyone else who lives in the undercity saw when looking up was the grey smog piling up in the roof from houses, factories and various workplaces. Hence, many in the lower levels refereed it to the grey sky many wished to actually see the sky of Athor but only higher skilled workers worked on the upper levels. Or you could be born a noble breathing in the rich air and seeing the blue sky they even say the nobles of Athor are given birth names.

The worker thought of the sky he only had pictures from his childhood he never saw the sky personally, but he wished he could one day. As he went down the road he heard footsteps behind him he thought nothing at first he followed the same road that always took him home it was good to keep to the main roads because gangs like to hang about in the side roads. Still, he realized after a while that he was still being followed he tried to up his pace to get home quickly soon a quick pace soon turned into a run and who ever was following began to run as well.

He ran down the road making a quick corner, the small road in between the housing blocks was full of grime, but he wanted to lose his pursuer he made another right and came to a dead end. He turned around slowly, the worker thought he was being tailed by a gang but he saw a group of people, people he recognized from work he lifted up his hands and said “Hey I was just heading home what's the problem here?”

His colleagues glanced at each other a burly man stepped forward people called him Big Charlie there were rumours that he knew some gangsters who ran around in the block they lived in. He cracked his fingers and spoke. “The officer had a word with us he told us that if we rough you up a bit he would reverse the pay reduction.” Charlie glanced over to the group and looked at him again “Oh right you don't exactly have a name do you? Them pencil pushers and nobles like to refer us to numbers but why don't we call you little George? You always kept your head down, kept quiet and simply avoided all contact but now you had to stir the pot didn't you?" The worker could not speak, not even react to the belittling name he just gave him. Plus he was right he never liked to involve himself with work issues since people have been vanishing lately the officers have said those who fall behind or cause problems are sent to the lower levels. The level that have mutants, aberrations and other things living down there.

Charlie then called someone over gesturing with his hand the workers mouth fell he saw it was Larry from work. A mix of emotions played in the workers chest from anger to sadness. Larry tried to glance away, the worker could see sadness and fear in his eyes, Larry then said "Sorry about this, I have kids and a wife to feed you see, I-I am truly sorry." Charlie rolled his eyes and glowered at larry "His name is George now Larry or little George if you prefer now... take the first swing."

The worker grit his teeth and Larry swung his fist in his face the worker felt thundering pain in his cheeks the blow knocked him off his feet and then the group moved in and began punching and kicking him. He gritted his teeth baring the pain, after awhile they stopped and walked away. One even spat on him and then gave the worker a final kick in the gut.
The worker slowly got up rubbing his arms and legs, the worker no his name was George now they will make sure of that at work tomorrow he looked around to check if they were gone. He staggered up using the pipes to balance himself he was aching everywhere. He began walking slowly out of the ally way each step with him grunting in pain from the bruises. On his way home he passed by the local church his mother and father were pious people and instilled the same virtues and tents of the god-emperor into him. Still George felt the need to talk to someone. A representative of the god-emperor.

As George walked into the church he smelt the incense and he looked upon the grand statue's of each of the holy primarch's, when he looks at each of the god-emperor's children he is always filled with awe. They looked heroic, strong, unbowed and without fear. He looked at the first statue near the entrance it was Roboute Guilliman the statue next to him was Sanguinius. He looked at the words beneath Roboute Guilliman statue "Courage and Honour." He wondered back at work did he display those things? Did he do the right thing? Still before seeing the priest George decided to do a small prayer at each of the statues. He always used to come here to pray with his Mother and father they were both scribes for the church. Until... George shook his head focus he was here to pray and for confession. He said his last prayer in the front of the statue of Corax. George looked up the statue of Corax it looked like he was looking beyond the horizon to look ahead. George wondered for what purpose did they craft his statue in such a fashion? Even so George stood up and turned around and walked over to one of the empty confession booths. He sat down his body still aching and closed the blinds.

George spoke and said "I am here for confession father, will you hear the confession of a follower of the divine emperor?" As the priest spoke his voice was dry and horse most likely with age, he responded "Confess your sins my child." George sighed and looked at his bruised hands.

"I sought to help someone, I saw they were struggling with the task he was doing I watched him work before and I thought to swap places with him would work." George tried to rub his eyes but felt pain he suspected the skin around his eye is quite bruised but he continued "So I approached the person who leads our work force and proposed that I swapped places with him. It did not go as well as I suspected. The whole workforce was reprimanded for the suggestion I gave to our Team officer."
George deep down felt like his heart was bleeding and finally said "Father did I sin? Did I do something wrong?" The priest mumbled if thinking and spoke "Was it your place to question such things? Everyone is placed in their role by the will of the emperor I was ordained and chosen to be in the clergy and you have you place. We do the emperor's will by following our roles and follow the way of those the emperor has placed to lead you. Not doing so leads to discord and deviating from the path set by the emperor is a sin."

George squeezed his hands tight and continued to listen to the priest "Since you came to me with your confession I absolve you in the eyes of the emperor but be sure not to move from the path set by him." George made the sign of the aquila and thanked the father for his time. He left the booth and walked out of the church deep down he thought he would of feel better after confessing but in the end he felt worse.

As george made his way home he opened up the door to his apartment it's incredibly small for an apartment, all he has is his desk, journal, his tiny fridge and bed. There was also a small toilet in the corner as well. George grabbed a pack of rations from the fridge and poured it into the bowl and sat at his desk. He grabbed his only spoon from the drawer then he looked at a small hand mirror left by his mother. He noticed his short black hair wet with grime and grease and the bruising on his dark skin. He thought to himself this was another lesson perhaps.... George also did wonder what his true age was most factory workers stopped counting after 16 years. George guessed he was between twenty to twenty five years.

He began eating and opened up the journal left by his father, most parents in the undercity don't teach their kids to read and write. His father before he passed due to being caught in the crossfire of gangs told him he should keep up his writing and reading perhaps he could get a better life. He thought that at some point that with enough work he can have a much brighter life and more important job than a scribe for the church in the undercity. He told him to write about anything what he sees, what he does and what people do. So he wrote of today's events while slowly chewing his food. His father taught him how to write some basic words and sentences his father also taught him basic sentence structuring. With each lesson George greedily absorbed the information his father taught him. With diligence he took to sketching and writing somewhat complete sentences.

Still writing in his journal made him also think of his Mother one day she just vanished his only memory was of her looking distressed and leaving his house and he never saw her again. This was a few months after the death of his father. George does recall arguments about his name some families of the undercity of Athor give their children hidden birth names. There are stories of families or even children being taken if word got out that you named your child. They were never seen again no one knows where the families are taken or where the children have been spirited off to. George's mother was a pious woman more pious than his father hence he recalled arguments where his mother was adamant to call him 1024. His father was against it he even wanted to give him his own birth name when he was born or even let George pick his own yet his mother did not give in. He then left the house fuming that day. Then his father was caught in the gang cross fire and when his Mother vanished that was it.
People came to his house and informed him that he was moving to an apartment and to be put to work in the god-emperor's factories to help the soldiers of mankind.

Even so George felt relieved whenever writing in his journal like he can pour his heart out, his frustrations, his dreams of going beyond the stars. A higher calling even but then he just thinks of his life now and the sadness builds up again. He closed his book, he thought to himself for a moment. Perhaps he should keep his journal on him? Write about things on his way home? George then tucked his journal with his work belongings. He then tucked himself to bed hoping the pain in his aching body would go away. As he was trying to sleep his apartment rocked again they have been happening frequently and he did notice there were less arbites patrols than usual in his block.

Arbites of course detested patrolling the number block of the undercity and normally those who cross paths with them are normally beaten. Still it was odd there would normally at least be one patrol. Still the shaking continued he tried to block out the shaking and rest for the next day.

George was back to moving carts and hauling bags of ammo powder he somehow made it to work with his bruised body it hurt more than usual to move the carts and bags his body straining as he moved the bags and carts of ammo powder. The team officer came overlooking smug and sweating while drinking a bottle of water. “It seems something happened to you worker 1024, but it seems it did not daunt your will to work this is good... now keep at it! We need to meet targets!"

George hated the man when he came in today the Officer noted that he changed his mind about the payment reduction to the relief of the workers but his pay was still reduced more than he threatened the others with yesterday.

The team officer looked over his direction again "Oh by the way worker 1024 after you are done with that bag you are to come to my office." George bit his lip and hauled the bag of ammo powder. The officer walked to his office and shut the door behind him. Big Charlie snickers to the other workers and said "It seems our little George is going to have a talk with the boss..!" He winked his eye. The other workers made huge attempts to avoid George's gaze and some smiled waiting to see what possible punishment will occur.

George wanted to hit him but he knew it would just lead to more bruises he does not need. With heavy shoulders he made his way to the office. George moved to sit down and the officer glared at him "No worker 1024 you don't get to sit down, seats like those are not made for you lot." He looked him up and down the officer said "You see I have been talking to my fellows and it seems we came to a decision, you are a disrupting element to this work force and there has been an agreement among my fellow officers to send you to work in the lower levels. You have been reprimanded several times in the past as well. Which caused us to reach this decision."

George began to sweat, his mouth quivered and his voice burst out uncontrollably "Anything but that sir! Please! I will do anything! They say vile mutants and other horror's live down there! I beg you, Please don't do this!" The officer bought a handkerchief to his nose and blew he looked up at george and continued "Cease your mewling I could have you "removed" but we still have use for you." He tapped a bell on his desk and two armed men with autoguns came into the room. The officer nodded to both "Please escort worker 1024 to the lifts to the lower levels make sure he takes his belongings with him."

George dropped to his knee's stunned unable to form words. Then the two men pulled him up roughly to escort him away. Then suddenly he felt shaking, the office rocked, the Officer rolled his eyes "Hurry up! I don't have all day get him out of here! Dam shakes what are those lot doing up there anyway? It's been happening for awhile now." The men escorted George out he got his belongings his journal and his clothes his mouth was dry he had no words.

He wondered what he did wrong, did he sin? Divine punishment? As they made their way out of the factory they walked down the road then across the walkway a building suddenly exploded. The shock wave threw George to the ground his ears ringing. The men escorting him cut the loose and ran not wanting to get involved in whatever was going on.

Then men and women poured out of the alleyways wearing black shirts and combat trousers piercings covering their bodies and leather straps on their arms and legs. They began chanting screaming gunning down those who got in their way. The armed soldiers gun butted several people and began dragging them away.

George's ears still ringing and things a blur he saw a winged monster falling, no flying. The monster landed softly for his huge size George looked at it him his size towered over him. The monster started to walk towards George. George looked around he grabbed bottles, stones anything he could get his hands hands on. While running he chucked them back in then direction of the monster but it was not slowed in it's advance.

The monster's wings of fire activated he glided around George he was in front of him walking slowly. It's armor was black and pink, covered in leather straps, furs and a censer ball hanged from his armor the pink vapors swaying in the wind. The monster spoke it was like his voice was drawing him in the pink smoke coming from the censer made George feel at ease"No more running small thing you will come with m-" as he ended his sentence George threw a bottle at his face. The bottle shattered not even making a dent on the monsters face. His face had jutted horns and formed into a fixed scowl just looking at it terrified George. Still he closed his eyes and kept throwing rocks and bottles in his direction.

George watched as the monster cocked it's head as it walked casually towards him ignoring the missles being hurled the rocks and bottles were chinking and bouncing off it’s amour. The monster strided towards George and grabbed him by the throat and bought his face close to it's. The monster squeezed, George could not breathe he struggled Geoerge saw black dots as it slowly went dark he gasped"sto-"


He looked at the slave going limp in his hands he wondered should he gut him now slowly removing each of his organs? He discarded the thought the lord of sin wants as many slaves and servants as possible. If they had fun with all of them they would have none to have fun with on the ship.

He then leapt into the air with the man in his arms wondering if he will survive the sorting. He always found them both fun and boring at the same time he smiled in anticipation.

Pain stung george's neck he tried to move his hands but they were bound he was scared he opened his eyes and found he was in a group of crying men and women in the plaza of the undercity. The same armed men and women surrounded them guns pointed then the monster with wings of fire leapt down.

As the monster walked forward his censer swaying with each step some of the men and women pointing guns at them breathed in the pink vapor from the censer greedily as the monster walked by. Some tried to keep as far away from him as possible. George could not stand gazing at the monster for a long period of time his eyes strained but oddly found it hard to look away.

The monster spoke his voice was smooth as silk he called over a man he looked more armored and bared black snake like tattoos on his arms "Alfred has the useful meat been sorted yet?" Alfred nodded "Yes we are starting now sire."The monster looked at the crowd and gave sigh before responding "Good Jedrick does not exactly like how long this process takes neither do I of course but we must follow the lord of sin's orders. Jedrick and his unit has already dealt with most of the Planetary Defense Force and is now growing bored so we should hurry, now begin Alfred."

The Soldier George knew to be Alfred looked over to the group of mewling people, George hoped not to make eye contact with them, then he began barking orders. "Bring them forward let the sorting start!" He began talking in a black box and after a few minutes gun ships came down George's heart thundered in his chest he heard about such machines but never saw them in person.

One of the clergy a woman tried to get up and began shouting at the armed men and women "Heretics! Monsters may the emperor smit-" Before she could finish her sentence the man who George understood to be Alfred got out a pistol and fired a bullet into her head. He spat "Watch what you say dogs of the false emperor and who presence you are in front of."
People began whispering to each other heretics, in hushed voices people began making sign the aquila and praying hoping for salvation. George in reflex also made the sign of the aquila. Alfred turned to his compatriots "Enough start the sort!" The heretics began dragging people forward and asking them questions their skills professions their work. Those who refused to answer and those still crying were shot, then people began telling them everything.

George realized that there were two groups one which included clergy men and women, doctors and other important jobs were put on one ship. Those with low key jobs working in factories were put on another ship. Then it came to george's turn. The man with what looks to be a datapad asked for his profession and in the back another clergy man shouted "Don't answer these foul heathens! These Heretics! You will taint your soul!"

A woman in the back raised her gun and shot the young clergyman in the arm he squealed in pain gripping the wound. George looked back she had striking blonde hair and to his shock she was easy on the eyes but George felt an unnatural sickness in his stomach. The woman flicked her hair and spoke to the giant monster "My lord can I have this one? Pretty please?" while making a evil smile. The giant devil sighed and shook his head "Go on then Grace, go have you fun."

The woman had a gleeful smile she moved into the pack of people they parted at her presence the man was kneeling on the floor gripping his arm. Grace drew her knife from her belt. She then did a downward slash right over the clergyman's right eye she kept slashing and blood was flying everywhere. The clergyman was trying to protect himself everyone grew quiet and all that can be heard were his screams. George's heart thundered at the scene he was terrified the soldier in front of George shouted at him to look this way and asked for his profession again. George stammered with his speech "F-factory worker, ammo..." His voice came out like a squeak.

Then George was pushed into the ship with all the lower key workers they were surrounded with more armed men. After a few moments everyone heard laughing of a woman it was so loud that it would scar most people's memories he could hear the giant monster humming like he was listening to some form of music.

The soldier george knew as Alfred spoke to the giant monster again "My lord I do hope Grace would not waste time." The monster looked over to Alfred "Alfred dear boy... you sometimes need to learn to relax a little." Alfred sighed "Yes milord"

George felt the process went on forever until there was a small group of people in the middle the man recording people's skills went over to each one asking the same questions. Then he turned to the Alfred and nodded. The monster sighed again and said "That took awhile but now we can get to the interesting part I assume these are the dregs Alfred?" Alfred responded "Yes my lord these are indeed the dregs who we deem to be of no use."

The monster nodded "Good all you worked quite hard today you can now enjoy the bounty of your labors now..." George realized that all the heretics started to breath heavily when a third gunship came over, George's legs felt wobbly from all the standing and he looked at the monster drawing a sword from his waist and it flicked to life with purple like energy. "It seems our ship has arrived now. Still my power sword Visha is still thirsty..." he looked over the soldiers "It's time to sample the fruits!" as he the monster said this the bay doors on the ship began to close and the last thing George saw were the men and women running over to the rest of the huddle prisoners and when the bay door finally shut all he heard were screams.
The flight was rocky and George screwed his face into disgust as some of his fellow prisoners voided their bowels due to the rocking of the gunship. At most their wardens found it more amusing than anything George wondered what these heretics wanted to do with them. The father of the church has always told him to abhor them for they can steal and devour our souls. To twist the pious and make promises like sweet honey to make us turn from the light of the god-emperor.

Prisoners began muttering prayers, George joined in the small prayer, praying for the emperor to save them from these monsters. He repeated the mantra in his head after the small prayer "The emperor protects, the emperor protects."

After an hour the ship finally landed with a thud, the armed heretics prodded all of them out of the ship and George breathed in strange air and looked up he saw... the sky for the very first time. The sky for the first time in his life it did not look similar to the pictures he saw as a child but after he placed his gaze down the awe vanished entirely. Smashed buildings, craters and more men and women being dragged away.

George then heard a sound another ship was landing the sound grated on his ears he moved to cover them but it did little to help. As the bay door opened he saw familiar faces. The officer, Larry and Charlie and other workers from his factory. As always the officer was bawling angry or upset about something yet what he said stoked the fire in George's heart. "Why am I with these Cretins!? I did everything you asked! I sent workers to the lower levels for you to reap your enjoyments and funneled ammo to your soldiers. I should not be with these fools!"

George felt the fury build up within. At a moment notice he broke from his group and charged the officer shoulder checking him in his chest. George roared at the top of his voice "This is your fault! Everything is your fault! You are with them! Heretic! If I was not bound right now..." A soldier came over and grabbed george and pushed him back into his group.

The soldier that shoved him back into place looked at him they were wearing a gas mask but a female voice came through she nodded her voice was like honey to george it seemed like she chose her words carefully she looked over to the person who seemed like was in charge. "Anthony, this one has a lot of fire how about I have some fun with him?" Anthony looked over in gruff disapproval "No, Isabel you had your chance and you lost it if we touch any of them now the lord's will skin our hides literally."

Isabel pouted and shoved George further into his group. The man named Anthony walked over to the commander of the other group he looked at his old officer and said "Deal with the fat one, the masters said to deal with him if he got to uppity." Anthony looked over to the woman named Isabel again "You can have your fun with this one." Isabel jumped with joy she called over her fellow soldiers to help her grab the man. It seemed they all had the same idea.

They dragged his old officer to the edge of the dock Isabel looked at the fat officer and said "Your not my type exactly but we are pretty high up from the undercity.. I wonder how long it will take you to make a splat? Here is my gift to you." She pulled out a syringe with purple liquid and injected it into the officer his pupils dilated and his muscles sagged somewhat. Isabel threw the used syringe over the edge and turned back to the officer "You see that injection slows things down for those who take it do savor the pain when you hit the ground. You did a good job for us you know? This is the least we can do for you." The soldiers grabbed the officer and all of them including the ones guarding prisoners began laughing they yelled heave ho several times and threw his old officer off the ledge.

His mind was too addled by the concoction to speak but george saw the utter fear in his eyes as he fell. Oddly George felt a measure of fear and sadness yet he was not sure if he should be feeling that way. The priests said it is right to feel joy at the death of a heretic. He should be happy for what they did but he felt nothing like joy of the thought of him being dead. still his thoughts were broken when the soldiers began pushing them forward.

They were herded through a corridor and were met with a larger ship George saw more giant monsters but they looked more baroque and outlandish with pelts. George thought he saw the one that was their leader his eyes met his. The androgynous features of the devil stang his eyes but he could not tear them away until one of the heretics bucked him in the back to keep moving.

The soldier named Anthony stepped forward to meet the leader of the monsters he saluted and kneeled. "Lord Jedrick the last batch of slaves is here." George saw Anthony quivering but it did not look like in fear but in anticipation, the monster named Jedrick drew his bloodied axe and and rested it on his shoulder "Aye Well done warrior you will be duly rewarded I hope there was no trouble?" Anthony shook his head still on his knees, Jedrick Nodded "Good our fearless leader the lord of Sin does hate delays there was poor sport on this planet he wants us to get the slaves into the Thunderhawk before the dogs of the emperor mount a proper assault upon us."

Upon the monsters last words the armed heretics rushed George and his fellow prisoners into the larger ship. When everyone was on the ship the heretics followed from behind and George then felt the ship lifting off again. He almost fell over due to how tired he was but he dared not to due to fear of what his captors might do to him.

A few minutes into the journey the monster known as Jedrick stood on top of a podium above them surrounded by more of his monster kin. He announced himself "I am lord Jedrick of the House of warriors and you my dear slaves will work for the eternal sin host! You will slave for us unto death and you will do so with a smile on your face. All of you had enough skills to allow your continued existence in service to us the third legion!"

George saw the monster speak on and on about the joys of serving them, the experience they shall have. All the prisoners locked their eyes on the daemon unable to break eye contact for some reason. Still when looking at him for amount of time George thought he was oddly beautiful yet horrific. His armour was black and pink like the winged monster and he had shining leather straps on various parts of his armour he also had a whitish grey fur cloak attached to his waist. Still George found him oddly captivating he was a monster and Heretic something he should hate yet the emotion did not surface. Then there was another rock that broke away george's eye contact with the monster. The monster spoke again "Ah we are back home now.."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/10 20:54:51


Post by: shinros


Chapter 2


George with his fellow prisoners were escorted down the bay from the gunship george looked around to his shock and horror he as on a spaceship. He looked around he saw people working on various parts of the ship. The armed heretics sorting people who looked to be nobles from his planet. To George's confusion the nobles looked a lot more comfortable some were distressed but many looked happy for some reason. George looked around again he breathed in the air of the ship. The ship had a strange smell it was rather sweet and easy on the nose. It smelt better than the rough smog and pollution of the undercity. Still He was in space his heart thundered in his chest then it sank with the thought crossing his mind wondering if anyone was going to save them from the Heretics.

The monster named Jedrick walked down the rampart to two more of the large monsters. He inclined his head to both of them and said "Ivan, Adelram." George saw the person Jedrick referred to as Ivan he had two censer on his belt bellowing the same pink incense he saw on the monster with wings of fire. His armour was also black and pink and it was adorned with golden encrusted skulls with parchment flowing out of their mouths. The monster George knew to be Ivan also had various writing on his armour and leather straps were attached to various sections he was also holding a large mace.

When george looked at the writing he felt like he wanted to throw up but held it in, he moved his gaze to the giant monster named Adelram, he looked rather plain compared to the rest of the monsters a few leather straps on his armor but what made him stand out was the large mechanical drills and flashlights attached to his backpack and there was a contraption on his arm with another small drill attached to it. George also felt that he had a strange aura of wrongness about him something that he could not put his finger on but thinking about it turned his stomach and he felt sick.

Adelram spoke to the bowing Jedrick "I trust there were no problems? We have began handing out the chokers now" Jedrick smiled "No lord, none at all save not having the glorious death and battle I hoped to have. Nothing eventful occurred by now the imperials are in disarray and we will be gone before they can mount a proper offense." Adelram nodded in approval, the monster George observed as Ivan scratched his chin "I already sorted out the ones who will be assigned to my group the people of this planet are rough around the edges but I will get them to sing praises to the dark prince soon enough."
Upon hearing that word "dark prince" george's mind strained he felt a thousand things at once briefly then afterwards a sense of longing fluttring away. Adelram looked over in George's direction unlike the rest he was wearing what looked to be a helmet and barked orders at the heretics leading his group. "Get the slaves to the lower levels to begin work." The human heretics nodded and shoved everyone roughly forward.

For several minutes they escorted the group down into hallways and then each soldier began splintering the group off in different directions. George was moved into a small group he recognised the person leading them to be "Anthony" from before he lead each of them to small rooms. George was the last, he was pushed into a small room smaller than his apartment all there was but a small bed and a shelf and a small hole in the corner. There was a cracked mirror on the wall and that was all there was to his room.

The heretic named Anthony said "These are are your quarters, when the alarm calls, you will be put to work slave so I suggest you better get some rest." George thought he could hear the brief snicker when he said that he turned his back to close his door but stopped. He tapped his gun and said "Don't get any bright ideas about running slave, there will be guards posted and there are no quick deaths for runners. Some of the people I know do like to have their fun with fresh meat."

George was finally left alone and all he could do was collapse on his new bed it was hard but all he wanted was rest. He reached for his back pocket and pulled out his journal his pen was still hooked in on his last page. He wanted to write but he could not concentrate still a thought crossed his mind.

What if a guard saw him with this? What would they do? He hopped off his bed and looked around his small room. He should at least hide his journal for now, he looked at his bed and lifted it up slightly, he slipped his journal underneath. It should be safe there for now, well that is what he hoped. He then fell upon his bed again, He breathed in the scent of the ship again the smell was strange breathing it in more George realized it was a sickly sweet smell that now started to make him feel hungry somehow but he felt no desire for food. George stretched on his bed it was hard but he did not care. He tried to close his eyes until he finally noticed the noise groans, moans and screams played in his ear. He curled up in a ball and started to pray again and made the sign of the aquila It took him a few hours to finally close his eyes and even then that offered no respite.

George was in a strange landscape and a pink mist surrounded him. As he looked around all he could see was darkness it was cold. So very cold until hundreds of hands reached out from the darkness some crabbed clawed, some similar to that of a normal woman. All reaching out he heard a voice he could not tell if it was female or male but the hands reached out the closer they got the voice sounded like a female.

The voice like silk caressing skin "Let me comfort you, you must be so very tired.." there was a soft laugh george's legs felt weak he crawled into a ball covering his ears hoping they would go away. The hands reached for him the coldness he felt vanished they washed over him beckoning, demanding for him to give in he wanted to give in but it felt wrong at the same. He shouted "Go away! Leave me alone!" then his eyes shot open.

He was sweating, lying on his bed he looked around the room he saw no hands, heard no voices, nothing but his own thoughts. Then an alarm blurted george covered his ears and one of the heretic soldiers burst into his room "Time to get to work slave!"
George was escorted he had no idea where he was going until the guard stopped and turned "You better memorize the route you will not be shown again.." George snapped to attention and made sure to memorize the route they were taking.
He was taken to a giant loading bay full of giant shells several men and women were heaving the shells into a chamber. It seemed they were loading the guns of the ship. The guard pushed George forward and snorted "Now get to work dog." George looked around it seemed similar to his factory but larger.

George looked around at the workers and he saw two familiar faces not exactly welcome but he wanted to talk to someone he knew. He saw Larry and Big Charlie and ran over to them, george bit his lip when he approached "Larry, Charlie is that you?" Both men turned around shocked Charlie coughed and said "So you are still alive little george? I am surprised thought these heretics would kill you and have fun with your corpse." George stepped back "what do you mean charlie?" Charlie shook his head "What do I mean? Hmph, you see when we were escorted to our rooms one guy tried to cut and run. Of course he was shot in the leg and then I heard something about feeding him to the never-something. Or having "fun" with him. I did not see him again after that." Charlie shrugged "we are dealing with hardened people here boys.They can easily kill without remorse and laugh in glee when they do it I have seen nothing like it in the undercity or the gangs and I have met some sick folks. These heretics make them seem like children."

George noticed throughout the conversation Larry was silent George reached over and grabbed his shoulder. "You okay larry? How are you holding up?" Larry turned around clearly stressed in a hush whisper "Leave me alone and work I don't want to get in trouble!" George was confused he looked over to Charlie and he shrugged george responded concerned "What troubles you Larry?" Larry mouth was quivering"In my group another guy tried to make a runner. The female soldiers sent to escort us..., they did things to him. now leave me be!"

George has never seen Larry like this before Charlie looked larry over "Little george just leave the big guy be you can see he is stressed." George nodded and turned around but stopped "Larry, Charlie did you get any bad dreams?" Larry ignored him focusing on the work, Charlie looked at him confused "Bad dreams? Perhaps the stress of what happened is getting to you? Anyway George better get to work before the guards decide to shoot you." George sighed he looked around to see if anyone was struggling to move the large pieces of ammo he saw one group having some trouble so he felt he would be most help there. Looking at their faces as he approached them they seemed to appreciate the help but he noticed there was pity in their eyes as well.

George noted that some of the workers in his group look to have been here for awhile he was going to move to speak but he saw that a guard was watching. Afterwards he thought he needs to get an idea of this place. The work lasted several back breaking hours until the alarm chimed again. The guard shouted "Works done today dogs! You better be back here tomorrow!"

George looked around for the people he worked with he saw a somewhat old man. No more than 40 years more or less. He walked over "Erm hello there I have a few questions." The man looked at him puzzled "You want to talk to me boy?" George shoulders sagged "Yes I was hoping you could tell me more about this place." The old man snickered "The fact that you're asking me that shows you have a head on your shoulders boy, those who don't ask those questions will most likely be dead in the first week. "Right then.." He stood up "Let me fill you in, you got a name boy?" George thought to himself where he lived they only used numbers he only has this name "George" his old co-workers stuck him with.


George nodded "My name is george sir." The old man eyed him "Strange name, anyway the name is Albert" he reached out his hand George took it Albert nodded to him "Well we can discuss this more in my room come along George." George hesitated "Aren't we supposed to get right to our rooms after work Albert?" Albert nodded "Ah your that green then,well we have plenty of free time after work to rest and what not but make sure you turn up for work. They check each of the rooms and patrol the area during work." George nodded and followed.

George realized Albert room was a few doors down from his he beckoned George to sit down on the bed. Albert folded his arms "Now george ask your questions." George thought to himself what should he ask he asked his first question as a whisper "When will be saved from these heretics?" Albert raised his eyebrow "Never, and you are now also a heretic." George heart sank and responded "How? I still hold the emper-" Albert held his mouth closed "Don't mention that word here boy or they will skin you alive. He is dead to you now you hear me? The imperium no longer cares for our lives the fact you stepped on this ship you are just as tainted as our guards outside. The imperium see you exactly the same as those foul lot" George nodded.

George asked another question so how do daily meals work? Albert stroked his chin "Good question, the guards deliver one ration to our rooms us workers sometimes trade rations between us. There are various groups hoping to catch the eye of the lords." George's face twitched "Why do they want to catch the eye of those monsters?" Albert raised his eyebrows "Monsters?" Albert slapped his knee "Now listen you haven't seen real monsters not yet, they are monsters of a sort but if you met a true monster? The ones that flash and lurk on the lower levels of the ship? then you would wish you were dead. They are space marines, Adeptus Astartes corrupted ones, but space marines nonetheless."

George mind raced he always heard space marines were heroes so why are they enslaving people? Albert looked at george "I know what you are thinking, you think that all of them are heroes.. they are not there are bad apples in the bunch and we are stuck with them." George asked Albert another question "Before you said some wish to be noticed by the lords, can you go more into that?"

Albert crossed his arms "I can, you notice some of the guards outside have leather chokers yes?" George thought about it he did not really notice them wearing something around their neck due to being shoved everywhere. Thinking back he recalls the monster named Adelram referring to them. Albert blinked "You listening? I am talking about your survival here." George nodded "Yes Albert I was just thinking tell me more about the chokers."

Albert continued his explanation "Well there are three "houses" well two in our case since one of them is not joinable. The house of warriors and The house of daemons You already met the house of warriors they are the largest and us slaves if we can prove ourselves worthy are normally drawn there. The lord of that house is Jedrick. The house of daemons is only talked in hush whispers the followers there normally keep to themselves. They sometimes come to recruit but the stories you hear of them will shudder your soul and there are dark stories of their "tastes" they follow the word of the Apostle Ivan. Another house is the house of sin but if you want your body parts intact you steer clear of them. Those are the three."

George listened carefully "Albert can you tell me more about the house of sin?" Albert shrugged "No point talking about that one only the brightest who are normally taken during the sorting get to join that one. They are pretty much kings and queens compared to the rest of us." George was silent and spoke his voice dry "Are you trying to join the houses Albert?" Albert looked away "Of course I am everyone is those who have a lick of sense. We are nothing to those lot we are simple slaves. They refer us as dogs and slaves I don't want to spend the rest of my days on back breaking labor and being used as fodder or as a possible plaything for a bored guard."

George pecked up to attention "fodder? Plaything?" Albert nodded grimly "Aye I have seen some people who worked too slow or got too old taken away never to be seen again. Every single time before a battle this happened. Or after some great victory or raid" George's heart ached he thought to himself to fall into corruption or back breaking labor until nothing of you is left. He looked up at Albert "Do you still believe in him Albert?" George then whispered "Do you still hold the god-emperor in your heart?" Albert sighed "Not for a long time sorry to say, he does not seem to want to rescue any our souls or smite the lot outside." George bit his lip "There must be some way Albert? Anything? Any hope of getting out of this situation?" Albert face went stony and he looked at George "Yes it's called get a choker from one of the lords. This is the last thing you gotta know the House of warriors their choker emblem is of a wolf head with the rune of of their space marine legion. Their legion symbol is like a winged claw I am sure you have seen it on their shoulder pads" Albert went silent and spoke again "And by the goddess don't go wandering to far from the slave blocks some of the Astartes like to hunt those who wander." George raised his eyebrow it was not to the hunting but the word "goddess" "What do you mean by goddess?" As george said that the word did not slide off the tongue right.

He tasted honey in his mouth for some reason. Albert then sighed and wiped his hands down his face "There is some messed up things in this galaxy stuff you don't know and would take too long to explain. I will say this much some on the ship worship a different god this god is the center of this ship. So George just for now just listen. The House of daemons their emblem on their choker is a female like face with horns with the legion rune on the forehead don't look too closely at one I saw several people losing their bowls for looking too long at it." George's mind was still wondering about this so called god or goddess and cut Albert off "Why do you refer to this "goddess" in either Male or female pronouns?"

Albert scratched the back of his head "It's hard to explain George just listen, now the emblem of sin? No slave in this level has seen it so no point talking about that they don't bother to come down here." George nodded again "Last question Albert do you have strange dreams? I had one the first night I slept on this ship" Albert went white as a sheet and stammered "Dreams?" Albert looked at his door "It's time for you to leave George, Don't talk to me again I answered everything I can." George confused and not wanting to hurt the hospitality of the man who helped him got up from his bed bowed in thanks and left.

George walked back to his room he is starting to learn his way around finally upon entering his room he found a strange pack on the small shelf. "This must be the ration Albert was talking about. I don't feel hungry at the moment I better save it." George thought back to how it was used as currency around the slave workers so he lifted up his bed and placed it underneath it.

As he did so he felt around underneath his bed and reached for his journal he still had it on his person when the heretics captured him. George was still not sure how the guards would react to him having his journal so he hid it at first but he finally he realized he may need it on him just in case he learns new things to help him survive on this ship. George carefully wrote down everything Albert told him. While writing George then began to feel it might actually be safe enough to keep it on him. Since the guards seem to care more about everyone working than what they have on them.

Still he started to grow tired he lay on his bed the days work catching up with him he slowly closed his eyes to same noise of groans and screams.

Running in the darkness, he kept running something was chasing him the same voice again "Come out little thing... Dance with me! Stop running!" He knew if he stopped if he took one moment to catch his breath this thing would catch him. He heard a groan the voice spoke again "I love these games of cat and mouse... you are the first to run most embrace me... let me devour your light, your soulfire, you will scream in joy when I do..."
Those words caused him to keep running with all his might then he came to a wall of shadow blocking his path he turned around nothing was there. Out of breath he shouted "Back foul thing! Back!" He knelt down repeating those words over and over again "The emperor protects, the emperor protects, the emperor protects...." The voice hissed "Don't talk of that name in my presence, he can't protect you here..."

Then claw hands reached out to embrace him. George's eyes blinked he got up from his bed he was sweating again to the same sound of the alarm chiming for work. He stopped sweating he lifted up his bed and grabbed his journal. He put it in his back pocket he tapped it and his breathing slowed down. He started to feel calm again just holding it always calmed his nerves. He then heard guards shouting, he ran out of his room to the decking area trying to push the memories of the dream away from his mind. Yet he could still hear it- her laughing. George shook his head focus on surviving work he reached the work area and rushed to filling the ship's large ammo cartridges with powder with the other workers. George thought perhaps focusing on the work could help him forget his dream. He looked around for Larry and Charlie he could not see them he put his head down and got to work. Soon he heard drones of prayer it got louder and louder.

Then to his horror several men and women marched down towards the working slaves some wore robes of black and pink some wore no top save leather straps and piercings all over their body. Other's had script inked on their bodies that hurt George's eyes. George looked towards their necks and saw chokers of a female head with horns. George cursed he remembered Albert's words don't look for too long.

He wrenched his eyes away just listen to those voice. He heard someone step forward and they spoke it was a woman. George could also hear her breathing heavily "The apostle of daemons seeks more faithful on this joyous day he offers a place to those who want to worship at the feet of the goddess!" Upon mentioning the word goddess all of the house of daemons groaned and muttered prayers. George looked around several slave workers dropped tools and walked forward. Then he saw larry.

George ran over "Larry! No! Don't do it!" larry pushed george back "I can't take it anymore! George I hate this place! It's worse than home!" He ran towards the woman and george deep down wished he did not turn his gaze to set his eyes on the speaker. She wore nothing save a pink silk gown and leather straps on her arms. She had striking blonde hair and pink eye slits for pupils she had milky white skin every inch of her body was covered in words passages that George has no idea of understanding.

While looking at her the same darkness in his dreams closed around him that same voice taunting him in his dreams came back thudding in his head until he saw larry Abase himself before the woman. "Yes please kind lady free me! I want to go with you! They were tears in his eyes when he said this. The woman gently stroked larry's hair "I heard about your wife and children how they did not survive the journey.. you will be safe with us." Larry looked up "How did you know?" the woman smiled "The gods have ears and eyes everywhere."
Larry got up and several slaves followed them George wanted to yell to tell Larry to stop that he will lose his soul. For whatever heinous comfort that she will provide it will be a lie. She will twist him inside out. He moved to ran until someone grabbed him it was Charlie. "Let him go little George, he was always weak and foolish perhaps he might have a place with them." George turned around seething careful not to raise his voice "How can you say that Charlie!? he will be damned completely and utterly. Knowing you and how you act you must know of the system here and the houses."Charlie gave George a casual glance "Of course I do but I am aiming for the house of warriors not those nuts several slaves have said they should be coming soon to recruit. You should aim for it george considering how weak you are you won't survive the week living here."

George stepped back "Why join the heretics charlie they don't care for us!? If you buy into their honeyed words we will become utterly corrupted have you seen them!? How the bask and moan. How they torture? The stories of people being violated?" I am also sure you hear the same sounds I do when we are resting in our beds." Charlie narrowed his eyes " Yes I know and listen to yourself every word you said is the same thing the priests stuff into our mouths and heads They don't care for us! Think on this as soon as we were given a number on Athor and they put us in that factory no one cared for us not since we were born George. We can find purpose here to rise out of the muck we at least have a choice now. Hell man we don't even have names just serial numbers that's how much the imperium cares for us! George you can get with the program or die whipped and broken. I want at least some joy or freedom in my life. Not living hand to mouth running drugs and fighting with gangs. We have a shot a good shot at possibly something better." George narrowed his eyes "Then you will become a Heretic and be damned." Charlie glowered "We are heretics already George." George shook his head he said this in almost a whisper "I know in my heart and soul that the god-emperor has not given up on us Charlie."

Charlie chuckled "He already gave up on us ages ago." Charlie walked back to his work area without another word.

George felt defeated for some reason he then looked as larry followed the heretics away into the darkness with blasphemous prayers on their lips. George got back to work thinking on the conversation from before. Charlie can easily say that considering the life he lived, he must of never truly believed in the god-emperor. He chose a life of running with gangs, picking on the weak he was perfect for the heretics. After a few hours george heard the marching of boots soldiers then poured out of the darkness. One walked forward bearing an icon of the house of warriors on his backpack. With a cane and topped with a skull in hand. The man scanned the room "Dog's to attention!" The slaves ran forward and lined up in front of the man george wanting to avoid being beaten lined up.

The soldier walked up and down and george felt like he saw him from somewhere before He stopped in the middle of the line and smashed his cane down and shouted. "You dogs got a one time opportunity that last battle to get you curs to do the blessed work of our host caused us to lose a few soldiers. I am Commander Alfred and those who wish to fight in the blessed armies of our god and seek a glorious death and battle step forward!"

George saw several people step forward Albert and Charlie and several other slaves. Alfred nodded "Good, now I will put you into pairs of my choosing." Albert was paired with another slave and charlie to a slave next to him. Alfred nodded again "Now those who are paired will now beat each other to death the one that survives joins the house of warriors." George was horrified and relieved that Albert and Charlie were in different groups but he was breathing heavily he did not want either to die but did not condone what was about to happen. He did not know what to think this was a trial to join them. Even with that heated argument a few moments a part of him did not want either Albert or Charlie to die.

Charlie snickered and launched himself at the man he was paired with. Charlie was about the same size as the man he was paired with both quite muscled and chiseled from hard work. Charlie threw punch after punch bloodlying his knuckles. Charlie began laughing all the man can do is mount a defence blow after blow the other slaves arms were bruised until he let down his guard.

Charlie smashed the face of the other man he tumbled on the floor charlie jumped upon him and bought his fists down again and again caring not for the state of his hands. Laughing while doing so he bought both his hands together and smashed down on the face of his opponent. Charlie stood up breathing heavily smiling. George looked at the man on the floor his face bloodied his nose broken. George wonders considering Charlie's connections to the gangs he must of killed people before.

Alfred gave a slight chuckle "Seems we found quite a wolf among these dogs" he turned to charlie "Did you enjoy it lad?" Charlie nodded "every bit sir that lout has been poustering himself in from of me for days drove me up the wall sir." Alfred nodded "Well soldier stand in with the rest." charlie lined himself up with the other house of warriors soldiers. George then looked over to Albert's fight.

George saw each of Albert's fist strikes were measured hitting certain points in the body and as he was striking the man bruising his body with each blow he was muttering something. George tried to read his lips and knew deep down it was some sort of prayer. Albert delivered an uppercut to the chin of his opponent and he fell back and crashed on the ground.

Alfred nodded and walked over to the collapsed man "That's quite enough seems you are the victor he is not getting up from that." Alfred casually drew a pistol and shot the man in the head. He turned to Albert "Welcome to the warriors!" Albert nodded "Thank you sir." He lined up with the rest of the soldiers. 20 slaves stepped forward 10 left.

Alfred twisted his cane "That was very interesting for this month but it seems several of our new recruits have to take a trip to the snakes." Alfred looked at charlie when he mentioned this and looked at his bloodied knuckles. Alfred turned to the guards watching after the slaves "Make sure the slaves clean up the bodies soldier." The soldier nodded and Charlie and albert walked with the warriors into darkness.

George was left by himself a nearby soldier gun bucked a slave "Dog's! It's time to clean up the mess such is the role for cowards!" The soldiers had George and the other slaves chop up the dead bodies and clean away the blood and put the body parts into bags. George felt like he wanted to vomit while doing so he almost did but he kept it in since he had no idea how the soldiers would react to him voiding his bowls. The soldiers took the bags away on top of that they ordered that everyone had to finish moving and loading the ammo for the ship.

The alarm chimed work was done when walking back to his room he pulled out his journal from his back pocket he did not know why he took it to work. Even though it was a risk george felt it gave him some comfort holding onto it. He missed his home, he missed the temple the smell of incense walking into the temple the statues of the primarch's. He wondered what they would do in his situation, still living like that It was not a great life but he much preferred it there compared to being a slave to heretics.

As he walked down towards the slave blocks he felt a draft of sorts as Albert said before never go exploring since the Heretic Astartes like to hunt slaves that wander. Also that there are worse things in the far lower decks. Still his curiosity in his heart got the better of him.
He followed draft down corridor after corridor. Until he came to a small gap in the side of the wall there was a panel there but there were clear clean cuts. Someone trying to escape somehow? Should he even dare the attempt? George got down on his knees and crawled into the hole he made sure to place the wall panel back up as he crawled in tunnel.

He kept crawling in the darkness for several minutes with some light shining in the gaps. He heard people talking a familiar voice he could not exactly place where he heard it from he kept crawling to the voice.

He came upon a sanitized room with one of the large monsters standing over an operating table surrounded by humans. He recognized the monster he was named Adelram a heretic Astartes, no he is not a Space marine he could not believe it they are heroes. He is a monster a heretic. George then looked closely at the chokers of the human heretics the emblem looked like a snake biting into an apple with the same legion rune etched upon the snake. The large monster continued talking he saw a man strapped to the table eyes open with clear pain and fear in his eyes.

The Monster was extracting organs calling for tools and the aids handed them to him. George had no idea how the man was still alive after having so many organs removed. As the monster removed the organs he was explaining the process. "The heart, the primary muscle of humans without it we cease to be but Astartes can function even if one of our hearts fail. It is one of the first organs implanted within an Astartes."

George should be horrified to what was happening the man he was clearly still alive in pain and the monster was casually operating on him with the nodding approval of other heretics. The monster continued "As been said the secondary heart is the first organ implanted, then the Ossmodula also called the iron heart placed alongside the initiate's pituitary gland at the base of the brain, next is the Biscopea also known as the forge of strength this organ boosts the strength of the marine and why I appear so large to all of you. This organ is placed within the chest cavity he points to the man's open chest with a scalpel."

George licked his lips he pulled out his journal instinctively and began jotting down everything drawing small diagrams as he moved forward in his explanations. The large monster noted overall there is 19 different Astartes organs that he will show how to implant and heal damage for each. George noted the heretics looked at each other with excitement in their eyes. He was about to talk of the 4th organ but something chimed on his wrist he began muttering.

He turned to the heretics gathered in the operating theatre "That is all for today you are free to leave reflect back on what I taught you I may ask you questions on the morrow." The heretics were chatting with each other on the way out.

George turned around in the small tunnel his heart pumping he moved quickly back to his room and flicked open his journal. He read through each of the notes annotating the diagrams more of where each organ is placed he smiled to himself. Why is he smiling this should be horrific yet he is excited at the same time.

He had trouble sleeping it took him almost an hour to fall into slumber george slept that night smiling.

Darkness again this time no running he slowly walked he reached for his back pocket his Journal was always there in his back pocket and began making notes. He feels cold, normally he starts running, then the voice comes to tempt him, taunt him and then the claws and hands. He waited and waited nothing... until the sweet voice came "You enjoyed that didn't you? Watching him cut that "Poor" man open snip, snip."

For the first time george spoke to the thing "What are you.., why do you hound me!" the voice laughed "Out of all the dregs on this part of the ship you shine the brightest still believing you can be saved, still holding on to that false faith. What I want small thing is to devour your hope taste the ecstasy of your despair knowing you are trapped in darkness I am waiting for the fall." Then george saw a face peering of the darkness it was grotesque and beautiful at the same time it set george's heart aflutter the thing then said "and oh how I will enjoy it....."

George blinked he was lying on his bed but nor was he sweating when he awoke after the previous dreams. He was actually somewhat relaxed he wanted to know more about the thing that's within his dreams. Why was it hounding him? No one else seem to be having this problem. Albert kicked him out of his room just be mentioning it. He sat up he grabbed a ration pack from under his bed and pulled out his journal he tried to remember that face he started to sketch it was rough but he sketched down as much as he can remember from his dream. He was not the greatest artist but he took time to sketch interesting he saw back on Athor. The face was feminine in aspect with black eyes like the colour of pure darkness. He touched the sketch he felt a small sense of longing he desired anything another meeting to understand truly what he saw and perhaps stop the dreams. The alarm chimed again breaking his concentration this time george took a ration pack down to the decking area.

George was back to work again this time Larry, Albert and Charlie were gone and again his minded drifted to what he saw in the operating room and his last dream his heart was pounding the questions surging in his mind. When the alarm chimed for work to end he felt tired but full of energy. He asked around if there have been slaves affected by dreams. With the mere word of dreams or showing his sketch most slaves wanted nothing to do with him. He then approached a slave who appeared to have been here a long time she was not much for conversation but George showed his ration pack. Still he was curious how an old woman could survive as a slave for so long. She wore a robe and there were tiny fetishes hanging from her arms.

George wanted to know about his dreams, the old slave woman took the pack and told him to sit down with her. The old woman coughed "There is myth in the slave quarter that the neverborn sometimes pick at those slaves they have interest in they appear in their dreams they are handmaidens sent forth to grant the deepest desires of worked slaves and all mortals." George noted down all this information into his journal. He asked the old lady "What exactly are the neverborn?" The old lady coughed and spoke "They are angels of our desire and wants if you had such a dream young man you are both cursed and blessed."

George thought to himself he wondered why the priests back home never mentioned these "angels" he looked at his sketch again it did not exactly look like much of an angel either. Yet whenever he looks or thinks back to his dreams his heart stirs for some reason. The old lady continued speaking "Many who had such dreams found glory in the houses or were hollowed out and devoured by them they are then found dead in their beds smiling with joy." George raised his eyebrow "People were found dead smiling in their beds?" The old lady nodded "Aye better to die in pleasure in the arms of the neverborn than by the hands of the guards I say. Better to spend your final moments in the company of a being of pure desire than dying in the muck of the imperium." George eye twitched slightly when the old woman so casually called the imperium muck he looked down thinking. Then he looked up at the old woman. George said "This neverborn does not sound like an angel at all. If it is an angel of sorts how come I never heard of it? The priests of my planet never mentioned them." George was about to talk of the emperor but held his tongue he was not sure how the old lady or other slaves would react.

The old lady cackled "Those priests? Who spread lies and turn people into sheep? Who stifle creativity, blunt people's wants and excesses? Even stepping on to your on path or mentioning it is enough for them to lobotomize you and turn you into a servitor? A Mewling slave machine with no will?" The old lady's words cut deep for some reason he saw servitors around the city sometimes looking into their lifeless eyes watching them going back and forth on their tasks. He wondered back in the confession booth did the priest consider to report him? Perhaps even already did? To possibly have him taken and made into a lifeless husk? A slave machine to be worked until destroyed? George clenched his hands he thought to himself don't give into doubt, doubt leads to heresy that's what his mother always said.
It was like the old lady read his mind somehow "You write in that book of yours because you "doubt", you doubt the things around you. You want to understand grow and experience everything around you. If that priest or an Arbite found that book you like to write in..." she made her hand into a pistol and flicked her finger up. George looked up his face firm don't let her put more chinks into his faith he pressed further on subject of neverborn "This neverborn sounds more like a devil or daemon of some sort than an angel." The old lady gave a soft smile "The difference between angels and daemons largely depends upon where one is standing at the time. Why can't they be both? Or either? As I said they grant desires."
George looked directly into the old lady in the eyes "So those people who die to the dreams they wanted that?" The old lady shrugged "Perhaps? Look around you, how slaves are treated, abused, hunted, violated and worked to death. Wouldn't giving yourself to a being that stirs your heart with desire and love a being that just wishes to give you delight and comfort be better?"

George was silent he thought to himself the dreams are occurring possibly due to this thing called "neverborn" having interest in him. He started to understand that much. He spoke again "Are you actually a slave?" The old lady gave a cackle "Oh? What do you think I am?" George crossed his arms he furrowed his brows "I don't know. I do feel that there is more to you than you are letting on." The old lady leaned back in her seat "Perhaps, but we will meet again. I do hope I satisfied your curiosity." George sat up he thanked the old woman. It felt strange to do so considering one thing George knows for sure is that she is clearly a heretic. The old woman smiled she then said "I don't require thanks I am just doing my small part. In the grand design." George handed the ration pack to her. The old lady placed it on her lap tapped it and smiled. George walked away another thing cropping up in his mind again he wanted to see the operating theater again.

He followed the same draft the hole was still there, George decided to examine the hole more closely the cut was in perfect, way too perfect to be any cutting tool. He wondered what tool or means someone used to do it. Still he had to hurry if a guard spots him examining a hole in the wall bad things could happen. George climbed in he crawled a lot more quickly than last time excited for some reason. He reached the same spot as last time and looked down into the same operating theater they were still there. George flicked his journal open and began writing the monster talked of the Haemastamen organ the daemon cut open the man again it seems he was still there on the table from the last session.

The Monster explained in detail of the organ "This organ my students is also known as the blood maker and it's the 4th of the 19 organs this organ is implanted in a blood vessel like the aorta, femoral artery or the ven cava, the blood maker alters an Astartes blood composition to carry nutrients more effectively hence why..." The marine took off his glove and made a small cut into his finger "Our blood shines brighter than that of a normal human." George made a small sketch of the daemons finger along with explanation.

He also made small sketches of where the organs are implanted when he showed the other heretics the locations of where the organ is placed. The Large daemon went onto the next organ "This my students is the Larraman's Organ also known as the healer as you can see it's about the size of a small ball this organ is also placed in the chest cavity. This organ manufactures biological cells known as Larraman cells this organ was named after one of the researchers who followed the false emperor."

Upon hearing the word george repeated the word in his head again "the false emperor." It should be wrong blasphemy to refer to the emperor in such a way he made the sign of the aquilla. The he focused on what the monster was saying. "Now by large the cells from this organ prevents blood loss and why we appear hard to kill mixed with the phenomena of the warp this is enhanced even further as you can see from the prowess of my brothers from the house of warriors."

George noted down his knowledge smiling to himself he shifted slightly and knocked a loose metal pipe a large clang was heard george cursed. The monster's head snapped in his direction instantly he looked directly at him george's heart thundered in his chest he moved he crawled quickly away back to the slave blocks.

He heard a commotion in the theater but he kept crawling he got back to the hole he carefully placed the seal back on he ran to his room closed the door and jumped into his sheets. His heart thumping fear gripped his heart but a part of him found it exciting exhilarating.
He tried sleep but couldn't he hummed a song, the song his mother used to sing when he was a child his eyes slowly closed shut.

The same darkness but this time he heard the song of his mother sang in that voice that haunted his dreams it laughed "So soon the plummet, embrace the abyss fall and sing...." George stood up defiant "what are you!?, an old lady called you neverborn an angel of desires!" The voice grew silent "I am angel of a sort, do you want me to be an angel boy?"
George thought to himself "I don't know... can you at least show me what you look like? I only caught a glimpse last time. The voice spoke like a whisper in his ear "Are you sure?" George nodded "I am" soon he heard steps creeping closer and closer he heard a voice groaning and breathing heavily and then the creature stepped out.

It felt like George's heart was going to jump out of his chest the creature had a androgynous like face with purple lipstick with dark eyes black like the bottom of the abyss long flowing pink hair dancing in the air. The neverborn wore a leather corset, It's right chest bearing a single breast and the left side was flat smooth skin it - she wore a pink slik gown around it's waist. It- her hands ended in crab like claws.

Pink tattoos covered her pale flesh it looked oiled. The creature stepped closer "Do you like what you see mortal?" George bit his lip he said yes to himself but looking at it also made him feel disgusted. His heart raced he wanted to embrace it hold it - her close to him. He closed his eyes trying to gain focus the creature laughed "Don't close your eyes on me dear it's rude, yet you do enjoy looking at me you speak so loudly in your mind."

George slowly opened his eyes the creature was now in front him breathing heavily into his face her musk was intoxicating. The neverborn gazed into his eyes like she was looking for a lost lover "I am in front of you what now? What will you do? Why not embrace me now?" As she said that George gulped it took all his will not to lean forward close to her face to let his lips touch hers. He spoke "What are you? who are you? Where did you come from?"
The neverborn danced back laughing "I could answer your questions but why should I?" The creature's black purplish tongue wiped out in a snake like fashion she smiled "Do you truly wish to know? What of your faith?" George stopped for a moment what of his faith? What does his faith mean to him in this moment? The neverborn stepped forward she walked close to him close enough that she whispered in his ear "What does faith mean when it's ashes in the wind?"

George thought back to those moments, when Albert told him he was now a heretic, Charlie said the same thing. Would a man of the god-emperor gleefully copy down the words of a Heretic monster? Would a man of faith listen to an old crone spittle, berate and mock the imperium? He was at a loss for words. George stood there unmoving, thinking back everyone he knows is gone left him behind. The neverborn then wrapped its arms around him gently she bought her claw down his back he could feel it he thought it would be prickly, painful enough to draw blood. Yet it was a gentle even like a lost lover embracing him.

The neverborn whispered into his ear "Seasha" George flicked to attention "Is that your name?" Seasha leaned back and looked at him with her black eyes George smelt her breath it was like perfume and honey mixed sweetly together. Seasha gave a smile that chilled george's heart but he felt drawn in "What do you do when you are at a loss for words? When you want to free your mind? Your heart?" Your wants?"

George said it under his breath yet "I write, I sketch." Seasha was still smiling "Yes, your excess your need. My prince wants it. He wants your eyes, your mind, she wants your skill and your art." George suddenly felt nervous he grew anxious yet Seasha kept speaking "Give them to her and at the end is a name." When Seasha mentioned that a tear suddenly rolled down George's cheek he had no idea why. George breathed "A name?" Seasha then whispered "of your own."

George's mouth was quivering then he remembered the old lady words neverborn devour people. George looked Seasha in the eyes "You devour people." George stepped back shaking Seasha let him go silently, george said "You seek to devour me! To eat everything that I am. You speak honey words, you are lying! Your kind has been devouring slaves for ages!"

Seasha was no longer smiling she cocked her head to one side " I do lie, I simply speak of your desires I much prefer the truth." George was breathing heavily he cursed he gripped his heart she was telling the truth about him. He loved to wander, to write, to sketch, to see, experience and learn new things. He looked up "What of the slaves your kind eat? What of them? What is their desires!?" Seasha wrapped her arms around herself and smiled "They wanted it, they offered it and I took it. I devoured them slowly carefully so they would enjoy every moment of it and they did. You think I seek to devour you I do not, I protected you."

George clenched his fists he shouted "How did you protect me? Protect me from what!?" Seasha stood straight again she spoke smoothly seductively even "I am like a small wisp on this ship thriving on the excess, then I saw you, your soulfire burning like a star in the muck. I touched the minds of the guards briefly." Seasha began walking forward again, instinct told George to run but his body would not move she raised her claw and suddenly it was a hand. Seasha touched his cheek gently George looked at her hand they were like that of a female her nails were black. Seasha spoke "If my presence was not there, the things they would have done to you. They sought to ruin you and in turn it would prevent the great things you will do for the dark prince."

Seasha then brought her other hand to his other cheek she said "Tell me what is your name?" George breathing heavily it was like he was out breath he responded or at least tried "My nam-" Seasha purred "Is what? 1024? Or George?" George closed his eyes and opened them tears began rolling down his cheeks "I don't have a name." Saying something like that hurt George. It crushed his heart utterly Seasha embraced him again and whispered in his ear "The imperium wanted to shape you into a crude instrument, your mother forced hammered into you that you are a number, your father is just as guilty as her for allowing it. The worst crime is that your "god" wants to blunt and ruin your wonderful talent.The one who thirsts is the one who truly loves you."

George was hearing everything that Seasha was saying and it was true, He knew it was true when did he ever focus on what he wanted? The imperium would punish him for doing what he wanted. They even punished him for doing the right thing. His hands moved to embrace the neverborn also George stammered "What can I do?"

Seasha looked at him she spoke softly "To start your true path, simply embrace what the dark prince has planned for you. Kiss me."

George was silent Seasha was right his faith was ashes. Did he argue with Charlie to convince him? Or himself? He looked at Seasha she was remaining in place watching, waiting and yet a part of George's mind said to pull back. It's a trick, it's a trap, All of what it is saying is a lie to lure you in. Yet his heart wanted a life, A name of his own. For once someone wants to help him to give him what he needs. In his heart he knew she was speaking the truth. George closed his eyes and leaned forward. He soon felt Seasha's lips met his it was like a jolt all his nerves were lit on fire and then George's eyes opened he blinked. He was lying in his bed. He touched his lips a sense of longing, desire panged him and suddenly he also felt a swirl of disgust for some reason.

George breathed out he opened his journal. The page of Seasha's sketch he moved to the next page and wrote everything from his dream in detail. He could remember each moment perfectly. How Seasha moved, How she talked and how she looked. When George was done. He got up from his bed and took a glance at the broken mirror on the wall. The he noticed a change. He walked up to cracked mirror on his wall his eyes were blue he leaned in close to the shattered mirror holding his eye wide up to see if any other changes occured. He then jotted it down next to Seasha's entry but for once strangely George felt alive, everything seemed brighter in his room.

The alarm chimed it was much louder than usual as well. He rushed off to the decking area it felt strange working it felt like everyone's eyes were on him. Work went by as normal then the alarm chimed again for the work to end.

The guards told all the slaves to stop and line up out of the darkness men and women in robes walked down towards to meet them. The guards saluted as they passed. George looked at their chokers a snake biting an apple. The head guard moved over to the the person that looked to be in charge within the group. "This is quite unexpected sir does the lord of sin require something from the slaves." The robed man looked at the guard "Yes he does it seems one of them were in a place they did not belong." George began sweating.
The man in the black robe walked up and down the line and stopped in front of George. You young man will come with us george did not say a word he simply nodded. As he walked with the dark robe men the guards whispered behind him "He is so dead, I wonder how the lord of sin is going to tear him apart."

He walked in the dark hallways he was placed in between a robed man and woman wielding autoguns. If he tried to run he would be shot before he took the first step the leader of the group walked up to George. "You have been eyeing our lectures our lord of sin is sharing his knowledge with his chosen that place was not for your eyes I wonder if he will take them from you. You do have very interesting eyes..." The hooded man gazed at George assessing his features the man spoke again "Hmm I think I have seen your like somewhere before?" He tapped his head and closing his eyes thinking he then turned to George and looked at him again. The man then said "Oh I remember you are one of the lower workers of Athor! I was a noble scion of the upper levels. As always you numbers never knew your place also seeking to rise above your station like fools. So what number were you?"

George hated the man he wanted to hit him but he knew in this moment he should humour him "My serial number is 1024 sir." Saying that number filled George with a sense of disgust he knew that was not him. The robed man then laughed George noted a tear in his eye and he said "1024!? An undercity worker? You are truly trash then, waste! I suppose our lord is going to break you down into materials or perhaps we can run tests on your body?"
He walked to the front of the line while laughing george kept quiet for now.

They went up several flights of stairs it felt like the walk went on for ages. Most likely george was feeling the work of the day creeping up on his body.

He was led to a large set of double doors. The leader of the robed men and women pulled back his hood revealing a fine chiseled face no blemishes he is also looked well fed he truly looked like a born noble. He looked at george smiling "I can't wait to hear your screams our lord should not bother with filth like you." The man opened the doors and george walked in.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/10 21:16:26


Post by: lliu


Well I enjoyed it. Hopefully, you write more soon!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/10 21:56:40


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Well I enjoyed it. Hopefully, you write more soon!


Thanks! I already wrote the first part of the story working on the second. Got 114 pages so far of writing ready it was supposed to be only a short story... yet I just kept going for some reason.

edit: Forgot to mention I am open to feedback.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 01:38:10


Post by: lliu


lol I like the story, just watch out for spe/go saw a few and it was a bit odd, but nothing writing or story wise. I can say that I want to see what happens to the dude so yeah great job!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 02:29:11


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
lol I like the story, just watch out for spe/go saw a few and it was a bit odd, but nothing writing or story wise. I can say that I want to see what happens to the dude so yeah great job!


Thanks! I have been working on that thanks for the heads up! I will focus on this more. I keep finding more mistakes every time I read it plus doing this on wordpad >_<. Practice makes perfect! Going to give each chapter a good read before posting. I appreciate the advice. There was also some added difficulty writing because a mate(Who is aspiring writer) said since it's slaanesh and emperor's children I should be careful on handling the legionnaire's and the daemons themselves.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 11:13:59


Post by: lliu


Yup let's just say they enjoy some pretty things


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 14:29:50


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Yup let's just say they enjoy some pretty things


Yup that was the hard part reading emperor's children novels you got some that are kinda tamed then you have reflection cracked where it's.... Er interesting and gross to say the least.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 14:33:00


Post by: shinros


Chapter 3

As George walked into the chambers it was very simple, a large bed several soft cushions and a desk with the large monster sitting down writing he looked up "You are here sit in front of me." George could not read his expression under his helmet but he felt compelled to sit down. George shifted his feet and kept his eyes cast low. The large monster stopped writing "Eyes up, now tell me slave give me a reason I should not reduce you into materials for my lessons? I felt a strange presence in the room for a few days until you made the mistake of revealing your location."

The large monster got up from his desk he towered over George "Were you planning some sort of escape? Are there others involved in your mewling slave plot? Those who try to break my order are met with terrible ends. Especially after a raid.." George shook his head thinking he kept called him monster. Yet what right did he have to call him that? He tried to recall the Astartes name it was Adelram he put that at the front of his mind. George then spoke meekly "No sir. I was not looking to escape." Adelram spoke again in a flat tone "So why were you there slave?"

George mouth went dry "I found a hole by accident and I was curious where it went I saw what you were doing I got interested so I started to write it down." Adelram raised his hand laughing slightly "Write it down? That knowledge is not for you, not for a slave and the fact you are a slave you would not understand what I am trying to teach. You seek to learn things not of your station I should remove your eyes and tongue."
George spoke again oddly he did not exactly feel much fear perhaps his experience with Seasha might have been the reason. He responded to the Adelram with a slight edge on his voice "My father taught me to read and write he said if I can read and write I have some hope of getting out of the factory. Just write what I see during my days of work and what I do during the day" Adelram chuckled "I grow tired of this." Adelram activated the apparatus on his backpack the drills span george jumped back dropping his journal on the floor.

Adelram began to walk towards George and stopped in front of the journal George dropped he looked at it for a few moments. The drill on his backpack still spinning, Adelram reached down to pick it up. George ignored what Adelram was doing he wondered if he could escape somehow his eyes darted around the room no exits could be seen. If he somehow got past Adelram his servants would gun him down. He looked back up to Adelram and saw he was going through his journal the apparatus on his backpack powering down. His hand on the chin of his helmet he looked up and spoke flatly "You wrote all of this? Diagrams, instructions clear and concise heavy details of each of my explanations. Sometimes even my servants don't pay this much attention."

Adelram kept flicking through the pages he stopped he looked at one page for several seconds and looked up again. "Where did you get this information? This sketch is so accurate, how did you get such a thing without being torn to shreds?" George gulped "From my dreams sir." Adelram cocked his head "Dreams..." he seemed to be lost in thought.
He walked towards George he was frozen in place he could not move the Adelram towered over George. He grabbed his chin and looked into his eyes he bought his wrist up and scanned his eyes. The large daemon began muttering to himself "Interesting, very interesting... your eyes contain material from the warp should I harvest them? No..." Adelram kept muttering to himself lost in thought.

Adelram leveled his eyes at george again "You have good observation skills and you can put together thoughts in a concise manner. Most people cannot even write down concise diagrams and instructions of gene seed and the warp. A rough diamond.... perhaps my brothers made a mistake what was your profession?" George looked around "I was a factory worker sir.."

Adelram threw back his head and laughed the laugh almost sounded like a roar through his helmet "A factory worker!? This must be some trick you must be playing a trick on me the odds!?" Adelram stopped laughing and looked at george "Perhaps the minions of the false emperor cannot recognised talent at all. Well it seems you will begin your new life with me." He pointed at george and said "You will be at my side. You will serve me until the end of your days."

George blinked "Sir? I don't understand?" Adelram sighed "You are joining my house." The Adelram walked over to his desk and opened the drawer and pulled out a glass case. George looked over to see what he was doing the large daemon opened the glass case. He picked the object up gently. George could see it was a choker

Adelram bought over the choker gently to him a snake biting into an apple. He looked at george assessing him up and down. "Now do you have a name boy?" George looked around and looked straight up to Adelram "I don't have a name, my name is 1024 factory workers on my planet are given serial numbers instead of names."

Adelram stood there for a moment a minute went by the Adelram cocked his head to the side and said "By the Phoenician.. you are serious." Adelram sighed again and continued speaking "Your planet was truly a backwater." Adelram was lost in thought for a moment and spoke "To serve me I will give you a name since I cannot refer you to a serial number you are too valuable for that. A proper name as you serve your new lord your name from now shall be Asriel. I am your new Lord, and you will serve me." He placed the leather choker around Asriel's neck it locked together with a soft hum Asriel felt it around his neck it felt warm for some reason as he looked up at the Adelram then a tear fell down his cheeks. Why was he crying? Was it happiness? A name of his own not a belittling one a proper name by someone who value's him.

Adelram spoke again "You really liked the name that much? Such a small pathetic life you must of lived before but now.. serving me, I shall mold you." Asriel looked up to his new new teacher - master and bowed with tears dripping down his face he said "Thank you so much."
Adelram nodded again "Your eyes have a dark laughter about them when they shine, you will witness my work and you will help me. Your new brothers and sisters will tour you around the upper decks and your new quarters shall be in the same area."
Adelram clapped his hands together Asriel tried to look to see who came in and it was the robed man who escorted him to Adelram he walked into the room and the robed man saw the supposed upstart with a choker around his neck he turned to his lord his face neutral. "Yes lord?" Adelram nodded "Get your new brother some food Agoston he's been fed the slop we give to slaves he needs a proper meal."

Agoston bowed and left the chamber Adelram gestured for Asriel to sit on one of the cushions. Asriel carefully sat down the amount of comfort he got in the chair his eyes suddenly felt heavy he did not even realize he fell asleep. Adelram looked upon his new disciple he thought to himself he looks so innocent and wondered how he survived this long considering the tastes of the guards on the lower levels. The marine shrugged and sat down at his desk going over the contents of his new disciple journal in finer detail.
He unlocked his helmet and placed it down next to him he smiled "Seasha eh? Giving names to such beings is pointless...." Adelram looked over in Asriel's direction shaking his head "He must have luck on his side or this could be mere coincidence..."
Asriel felt embarrassed he fell asleep in his lord's room of course when food was bought in the smell woke him up. Adelram did not exactly mind that he fell asleep he simply just wanted him to enjoy the food. He never even bought it up. There was meat, steamed vegetables on his plate things that only nobles eat. He tried hard not to cry while eating there were several points he had to drink water. Clean water.

When the meal was done several members of the house of sin escorted him out for his tour of the upper levels. Yes Asriel stopped at the door gazing at his Journal on Lord Adelram's desk. Lord Adelram saw Asriel's eyes shifting and said "I will return your Journal in time I am going over the contents it shall be returned." Asriel nodded and followed the house of sin members.
Asriel felt strange parting with his journal but he was also excited to look at the upper levels of the ship. When walking around with his fellow brothers and sisters of the house he saw more Astartes, space marines. They walked for a few minutes and they showed him his new room.
It was larger than his apartment a double bed, a large desk and mirrors around the room also a small door in the corner with a restroom icon on it. He also saw a shower in the other corner. One of the house of sin members stepped forward a woman. She has brown hair, her face was fair and she had freckles. The other house of sin members walked away and she gave a slight bow.
She introduced herself "Welcome brother I am Amethyst and you are?" Asriel nodded to the woman and responded "My name is Asriel." Amethyst raised an eyebrow "Ah that is a rather nice name your mother must of been a smart woman." Asriel began to cast his gaze to the ground at her words "My parents were not much of anything but they did give me the means to be here." Amethyst nodded "I see anyway I will be giving you a proper tour of the upper levels. your new clothes are in the desk I will be waiting outside." Amethyst walked away and left his room the door slid shut upon exiting.

Asriel looked into the desk he saw black robes, finely made with an armband with snake iconography upon it. The clothes felt "clean" a lot more clean than anything he wore before. It felt extremely comfortable it also kept the cold out as well. He got ready and walked out of his room. He saw Amethyst waiting in the hallway she looked at him smiling and said "The robes look good on you, ready to start?"

Asriel nodded she showed him the ship deck everyone's faces on consoles, she showed him the astropaths the blind psykers and she showed him the pict screens the stars the first time Asriel ever saw the stars themselves. I wonder what his father would think of the view? I doubt he would not enjoy being on a ship like this though.

One of the space marines stepped onto the bridge everyone locked their eyes to their console Asriel looked at him he recognised him the winged one that strangled him. He slowly walked in Asriel and Amethyst's direction he stopped in front of both. Amethyst looked stern Asriel did not know whether to feel fear or to bow he saw Amethyst standing like a stone so he followed after her.

The winged marine spoke "It seems our esteemed lord got himself a new pet.." he leaned in close to Asriel and sniffed him Asriel did not know how he smell him under that daemon helmet but he sniffed him all the same. He held his gaze at Asriel "I recognized that smell... I do hope you don't have any bottles or rocks on you this time?" Asriel tried to keep his eyes levelled to the winged Marine "I do not my lord." The marine leaned back chuckling at Asriel's response and nodded "So whats your name pet of Adelram?" Asriel kept his eyes even his new name his only pride and he responded "My name is Asriel my lord."
The marine sounded like he clicked his tongue he shook his head and said "A name from chemos.. How? Impossible what is your real name? If you did not belong to Adelram I would of gut you here pull out the organs of your body and dine upon them" Asriel looked up with confidence and said "It is my name, my lord the name Lord Adelram gave me I had no name before I met him he is my benefactor and my lord."

Asriel got the feeling the marine was assessing him the marine looked him up and down "He must like you a lot to do that then, be sure to stay in his good graces I heard terrible stories." Amethyst spoke up "Lord Silas, Asriel is new I am just showing him around can I help you with something?" Silas shrugged and said "No little Amethyst the houses were just prowling around wondering what the ruckus was. It seems I found it since it was strange that Adelram would send his pets to the slave blocks. Many were hoping for a revolt since that is the only fun to be had on this ship when they occur. He holds us back too much..."

Silas turned around and spoke again "It seemed I found my answer I am rather bored now." Silas gave a slight yawn "I do wonder when the next raid will be? He turned his head towards Amethysts direction her voice was flat when responding "Lord Adelram has not said when the next one will take place he is still sorting out the material gained from the last one." Silas shrugged and sighed "It seems that I have to hunt slaves on the lower decks to pass time." Silas walked away.

Amethyst turned to Asriel "You handled him well Asriel the masters always prod us for weakness have you encountered Astartes before?" Asriel shook his head "No I haven't but I have seen things far more scary than him Amethyst." Amethyst raised an eyebrow "Oh really? Pray tell what was it?" Asriel shook his head trying to push the memory back of his encounter of the neverborn "I don't really want to talk about it." Amethyst shrugged at his response her facial expression to Asriel seems that she will not press the matter further.
Amethyst showed him the pathways to the areas of the House of warriors and daemons. She noted that it would not be a good idea to visit their abodes since they are still in the process of processing the slaves into the houses. They walked down a middle path as they walked down the hall Asriel began to hear music getting louder and louder.

Soon they came upon a great hall it was like a giant bar. There were women dancing in spheres and loud pounding music. Asriel saw members from both houses at tables drinking and chatting. He even saw some astartes surrounded with several multi coloured drinks. Amethyst turned to Asriel "So what do you think? Many of the house servants and even some Astartes come to unwind here." Asriel was awed he never had enough money to attend bars and he was also afraid of the people who tend to show up back on Athor. Asriel looked at Amethyst and said "Why would Astartes come here?" Amethyst smiled "Well to sample the most toxic and exotic drinks." She pointed over to the bartender and there were several lined bottles behind him all multi coloured.

She continued speaking "Some of us snakes make a contest out of who can brew the best wine, Astartes of the house of warriors do enjoy sampling them. For example..." Amethyst walked over to the bartender Asriel followed. She leaned on the counter and spoke to the bartender "Hey jim!, I want to show my new brother some of fine wine. Get some of the new blood off the shelf!" the bartender looked over Asriel saw that he was a rather old man he was wearing black shades and a white shirt cleanly ironed and without a speck of dirt upon it.
Jim walked up to Amethyst "So you want new blood? Showing off again?" As he spoke Asriel noticed his voice had slight echo Amethyst glowered at him and said "No I am just making a point to our new friend. Also Astartes do enjoy my drink." Jim sighed "Well of course considering how you made it even some of the human crew took to drinking it." Jim climbed up a ladder and reached for the new blood he climbed down and handed it to Amethyst. Amethyst turned to Asriel and showed him the drink as Asriel examined it the drink had a blue hue.

Asriel looked at Amethyst and said "How did you make it?" Amethyst smiled "Well, I has born to a mother who was a doctor and a father who was bartender so I have some skill in brewing drinks. We of the houses sometimes to kill time we go slave hunting. That is the right moment to gather materials" Asriel thought hearing such a thing should bother him somehow yet it didn't and it disturbed him slightly he did notice Amethyst was smiling as she said it. Amethyst continued "During the slave hunt we capture them and torment them using all manner of means and we collect their tears we then distil it and mix it with some of the warp residue you can find in certain places of the ship. It is then mixed and aged with normal wine. It has quite a zing that the Astartes enjoy and I heard human crew members eyes dilate upon consumption I am quite proud of it." Amethyst puffed out her chest upon exclaiming this.

Asriel simply nodded he tried not to appear disinterested but he gave a smile he did give a thought and he did not understand why he asked this "So Amethyst why not improve it further?" Amethyst raised an eyebrow concerned and said "Why? it's already perfect, people love it."

Asriel cocked his head to one side "Well now it is but at the end of the day it's a drink and considering how I have seen people want to sample things won't they eventually get bored? Why not push it further? How do you know it's perfect?" Amethyst crossed her arms Asriel saw she seemed lost in thought Asriel moved to break the silence "I did not mean to offend Amethyst..." Amethyst shook her head "No perhaps you are right I mean people can suddenly move onto the next drink if it fancies them it could be in an hour or even the next day. Anyway do you have any more questions?"

Asriel nodded and said "I do have a question what is our duty as members of Adelram's house?" Amethyst put the new blood down and said "Well... our role is to learn from our lord bountiful knowledge to prepare for the future. We take blood samples from the various Astartes of the house of warriors and daemons for lord Adelram to examine I suspect you will be a part of that." Asriel thought to himself and wondered what future did Amethyst mean? He looked at her and said "Can you tell me of this future Amethyst?" Amethyst put one finger to her chin while smiling "Well what lord Adelram tells me is that what we are doing now is setting a groundwork for the return of his lord a primarch."

Asriel grew confused he tried to block out the thunder of music but his mind raced does this group have some relation to the primarchs? he said to Amethyst "You mean the 9 primarchs?" Amethyst face was neutral then it screwed into the face of pure laughter and said "Ah you haven't been told much have you? Those imperials sure like to rot everyone's brains with lies, you see Asriel those false priests tell you that there are only 9. Those 9 who are "holy angels blessed sons of the false emperor. Yes those 9 you know of are the ones who denied the truth of the universe but there are others." Asriel eyes opened wide his mouth went dry as he said "There are more? How many!?" Amethyst smiled "Well there are 9 more 18 in total. Those are the truly blessed ones who grasped the knowledge of the beyond and ascended. Each space marine legion has one who their gene's were based off, for example the Astartes here their primarch is Fulgrim. Well that's what Lord Adelram tells me."

Asriel cast his gaze down this whole time there were more primarch's why did the imperium hide such a fact? Asriel heard a beep Amethyst then pulled out a data pad and looked at it for a few moments. Then looked up at Asriel and said "Well Asriel it seems our tour is done for now." She pulled another data pad out of her robes and handed it to him she continued "This data pad will let you know when Lord Adelram needs us for various tasks and in this instance he needs me." She turned to Jim "We are leaving now old man." The old bartender simply smiled "Ah I will see you later then, perhaps when you are next in I will be on stage singing a new song I have been developing." Jim then turned to the other people on the counter wanting drinks. Amethyst began walking out she turned to Asriel and said "Well I will show you back to your room come along now brother." Amethyst continued walking and Asriel chased after her. For awhile she talked of her profession as a doctor she also went into details on body functions. Asriel instinctively reached for his back pocket but it was not there. He at least tried to commit what she was saying to memory.

They went back to his room door and she waved him goodbye. Asriel walked into his room he also realized his door now had a lock he flicked it. He looked around his spacious room he took off his robes and put on his undergarments left in the drawers at his desk. He lay down on his bed it was so soft then he thought on the information he gained in the last few hours. He wanted to know more about those 9 primarch's perhaps Lord Adelram would tell him if he asked? Asriel then realised how comfortable the bed was his eyes then grew heavy and he fell into a slumber.

Amethyst was walking down towards the chamber of her master she knocked on the doors. The light on the side chimed green as she walked in she bowed. She saw Lord Adelram transferring paper to another book a large bound leather book with chains to carry it and a custom lock that shone gold. When he was done he closed it and he looked up at her and said "Amethyst you have shown your new brother the upper decks?" Amethyst bowed low and responded "Yes my lord I have he seems like a curious sort." The marine nodded "He will be important for our work keep an eye on him."

Amethyst nodded her eyes then shifted around and her lord clearly noticed the marine sighed and said "You wonder why I dote on him so? Are you growing jealous?" Amethyst gave a weak nod she flatly said "I heard rumours he was a simply factory worker not even a noble born of a great house. He has no skills the imperium never trains their workers more than what is required of them in all counts people say he is useless" The marine smiled under helmet "Do you disapprove of my decision?" Amethyst eyes weeded and got on her knees "No never my lord you are wise in all things."
The marine looked at his bowing servant "I can still see your mind races with questions come over." Amethyst walked over to her master's desk she saw him open up the leather bound book. The contents of the page shocked her detailed diagrams, explanations, charts instructions in clear precise order. Amethyst looked to Adelram in shock and said "Who wrote this sire?" Adelram chuckled "It was our factory worker Amethyst." Amethyst looked at Adelram even though he was wearing his helmet she wondered what expression he was making she had a feeling he was smiling. He continued "Yes he may not truly understood what he wrote his writing does need some improvement, but he is observant and he can easily adapt information into an understandable format. He also has that glint in his eye that curiosity the need to understand, to grow. To achieve perfection one must ask themselves questions since without questioning ourselves or everything around us how can we perfect our craft?"

Amethyst felt that her lord's words hurt more than usual for some reason perhaps it's what Asriel said about the new blood drink? Something she considered more of a pass time she felt a small wound in her pride. She looked back at the page she knew deep down a simple mind could not produce something like this. Adelram rose from his chair and looked at Amethyst he towered over and said "Well why don't you rest for now? You did your duties as required and you will have a secured place in the next seminar." Amethyst beamed and bowed "Who shall handle Asriel's introduction to the houses?" Adelram nodded at her response "He will go with Agoston to collect the samples from my brothers. you may leave now Amethyst."

Amethyst bowed and walked out of her masters chamber while walking she thought on those rumours it came from Agoston she wondered how Asriel will handle the next few hours. Agoston was livid with Asriel's induction into the Adelram's circle. She dismissed such thoughts he will be fine he is a smart man she walked down the hall to her room to her mind racing on how to improve her drink.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 19:31:08


Post by: lliu


Nice. Look forward to more!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 22:24:13


Post by: shinros


Chapter 4

Asriel heard beep, he shot up and looked at his data pad. Amethyst taught him how to use it on the way back to his room he saw a message from lord Adelram he wanted to see him. Asriel threw on his clothes as quickly as he could and raced out of his room. He tried to picture the route Amethyst showed him trying as much as possible to avoid any Marines. If he came across some he gave them a wide berth with a bow to go along with it.
He finally reached the chambers of his new lord and master he knocked the light on the side of the twin doors lit green. Asriel stepped in he saw his master going through notes on his table when he was finally done sorting them he acknowledged Asriel's presence. He looked up to Asriel "Ah you are here, I have a task for you."

Asriel grew nervous he thought to himself a task already!? He was hoping it was not too difficult he did not want to mess up on the first day of serving Lord Adelram. Adelram can see clearly how much of a nervous wreck his new serf was he held up his hand "It's nothing too difficult I just want you to go with Agoston to collect blood samples from my Brothers. I always have them taken after a battle. Due to possible complications.."
Asriel was still silent he just gave a nod, he then heard another knock on the door and another man walked in the same man that belittled him hoping that lord Adelram would harvest his eyes. Agoston gave a great bow and said "You require me, my Lord?" Adelram nodded "Yes I want you to take Asriel with you as you collect blood from my brothers." Agoston looked at Asriel his face neutral "Yes my lord I will take good care of him." Adelram at that response got up from his desk and walked over to both of them. "Agoston see that you do and do be wary some of my brothers may still be jittery after battle considering some of their "tastes" " As Adelram said that Asriel noted there was a slight tone of disgust as he said it also it was only now Asriel noticed his lord was holding something.

Adelram noted that his servants eyes were diverting "You finally noticed it Asriel?" as Adelram said this he handed Asriel a black leather bound book with a lock and a large chain. Adelram folded his arms "This is your new journal I have added the previous entries from your small book to this one and extended the page count." Asriel gripped the leather bound book in his hands the smooth leather caressing his skin he was truly lost for words. He hooked the chain around his shoulder and finally spoke since entering his lord's chambers "Thank you my lord I shall treasure it!" Alderam turned his back and moved to sit down at his desk he responded in a flat tone "See that you do, now both you to your work."
Both men left his chambers Adelram looked back at his stacked notes wondering how his new serf will handle the encounter with the houses. He dismissed such thoughts it's why he placed Agoston with him since he is reliable and favored among his servants.
Asriel stood in the hallway with Agoston he went into a neighboring room ignoring Asriel's presence. He noticed Agoston pull out an apparatus with several glass tubes and surgical drains along with a briefcase. Amethyst told him about some of the tools they use and Asriel guessed they would be using the machine to drain the blood.


Agoston began walking and stopped and looked back over to Asriel "Well number are you coming?" Asriel glowered at Agoston "I am not a number anymore." Agoston sneered at him "To me you still are and the only reason why I am suffering your presence is due to the lord's wishes. Now when we get to the house of warriors and daemons you let me handle the work. You do whatever, stand in the corner and be useless for all I care."

Asriel said to himself give him a chance but it's not looking likely they will ever get along he followed Agoston in silence as he made his way down the corridor. As the walking went on for several minutes he began to hear smashed tables, screams and arguing. They stopped at two double doors Agoston knocked. A speaker blurted out of the vox "Who is it?" Agoston cleared his throat "It is the envoy from the house of sin to do the collection of blood." The vox blurted to life again "One second I will let you in."

The doors slid open and Agoston casually walked in, Asriel followed in after and upon entering Asriel saw a giant open space it was almost as large as the docking bay area with several fighting pits in the room. Men and women drinking at tables and various shooting ranges. Asriel saw space marines dueling in the arena they looked terrifying yet majestic as they dueled one another.

Asriel also realised that several pits had human onlookers Agoston grew upset with Asriel eyeing everything instead of paying attention "See you are being useless, run along and let me do the work." Asriel's brows furrowed "Fine then." Agoston smiled in satisfaction "Good I will call you when the real work is done. Leave the work to your betters."

Asriel wandered off and left Agoston to his devices he was curious about this place, the heavy scent of beer, blood and sweat. He wondered if Albert and Charlie were here? His attention was suddenly drawn to the central fighting pit. He saw two space marines sparring one he recognised he was the one who took him to the spaceship in the thing they called the "Thunderhawk". The other marine looked rather plain in comparison he wore the same black and pink colours of the legion. Asriel pulled out his Journal he wanted to capture their movements each stroke, each swing of their weapons.

Jedrick held both his combat knife and axe in hand his white pelt swaying at his waist even after a raid he wanted to keep his skills sharp. He does not want his skills to dull since if he dies a pitiful death he would be meat for the neverborn on the other side. His brother marine charged with his blade held high they were duelling until first blood. His opponent bought his blade down Jedrick parried away the strike with his combat blade he gave a shout "Is that all you can do Brother Noxus? If you fight like that a guardsmen will kill you!" Noxus grunted he jumped back and charged again swinging right and left alternating.

Jedrick was used to this style his brother never adapted, never refined always the same old moves he parried each blow with his knife turning back each blade strike. He waited for the right moment a sword swing to his right he shifted the strike with the weight of his knife and with his axe he slammed into the chest of Noxus and in one blow he fell to the ground. Jedrick grunted "A guardsmen will kill you for sure Noxus if you fight that sloppy."
He looked up to the various marines and his human servants cheering for another of his victories even so pit fights are boring. He prefers real battle, the sweat on the brow, tasting the cooper-iron blood on lips and the swing of his axe hewing through actual meat. Jedrick looked around and he saw someone he did not recognize he wore the clothes belonging to Adelram. His lord was obsessed with collecting blood samples after every battle always he said that it was for their "future".

He walked up the steps out of the pit he would greet this servant of Adelram gauge how spineless he is with the rest of them they had poor appreciation for the beliefs of the house of warriors and their sparring.

Asriel was breathing heavily that fight was amazing yes the marine with the sword looked great but the marine with the axe and dagger? Asriel took a gaze at his sketches each movement of the marine noted down in detail, each parry, each strike. One thing Asriel began to notice since the dream with Seasha is that his eyes could fellow things that normal eyes cannot keep up with.
Asriel gave a small chuckle to himself but he did wonder what was the house of warriors truly about? They could not be just warriors or drunkards. When Asriel looked up from his journal he saw a giant marine striding towards him he began panicking he is coming in his direction. This time though he was wearing his helmet it had daemonic horns jutting out of the head of the helmet.

The figure stopped in front of Asriel towering over him. Jedrick looked down at the frail young man gripping the book his voice burst through the vox of his helmet "So I wonder? Why has Adelram sent his little pets to my abode? Collecting blood again?" Asriel stammered out a response "Aye my lord Agoston said he would handle it he simply told me to look around." Jedrick chuckled "Oh.. him the mortal fool he bays and prostates himself before my brother for attention." Jedrick looked down slightly and saw the human was writing in the book he then looked at the human again directly. "So mortal what are you writing there?"
Asriel grew nervous his voice came out in a squeak "I was just watching the fight my lord and copying some things down..." Jedrick scoffed "What do you soft meats of the house of sin know of battle? Of war shedding blood for the glory of the one who thirsts?" He looked at this mortal's black book "Let me see it." Asriel eyes shot wide he bit his lip and said "My lord I don't think it's that good." Jedrick laughed "I will be the judge of that now hand me your book."

Asriel meeklishly handed the marine his book, Jedrick looked over the page his expression hidden under his helmet. Jedrick then looked up at Asriel his tone flat "You wrote this?" Asriel nodded, Jedrick looked at the sketches his moves in the last fight in detail his position, each stroke, each parry and angle he deflected Noxus blade. Jedrick breathed out and chuckled "What's your name human?" Asriel tried to stand tall "Asriel my lord."
Jedrick turned over that name in his mind and then Jedrick saw another of Adelram's servants come over he gave a deep bow. "Greetings my lord I came for the after battle blood that Lord Adelram requested." Jedrick looked over them both "Right let's go this farce over with." he looked towards Asriel and handed his Journal back "Sit with us Asriel. I wish to talk with you more." Jedrick then walked over to a large Chair Jedrick said he had it made by the ships finest craftsmen to accommodate his size.

Agoston glared at Asriel "Don't embarrass us number. Be careful of what you say." Asriel nodded and followed. Asriel saw Jedrick sitting back in his chair Agoston sat to his left carefully undoing the Marine's gauntlet and inserted the surgical drains into his wrist. Asriel sat at his right there was silence for a time but that question was bugging Asriel and he blurted it out without thinking. "My lord what is the house of warriors about?" Suddenly there was silence in the room everyone looked over Asriel's direction. Asriel looked around wondering what he exactly said which was wrong.

Asriel could see the fury building in Agoston's face, Jedrick sat up right "Be careful what you say boy I don't want Adelram losing his new favorite pet." Asriel bit his lip back yet he could not help what came out of his mouth "Apologies my lord but I wanted to know what it was truly about, when I watched your duel each of your blows in my eyes felt like they had purpose and meaning behind it. That you were fighting for something more." Jedrick held his gaze at Asriel and laughed harshly he kept laughing as all his all the human soldiers were waiting for his next action. In the room the human soldiers of the house of warriors had no idea what was happening whether their lord was going to kill the man sitting next to him.
Jedrick leveled his gaze at Asriel again and said "I like you! What do you wish to know? Aye there is meaning and I am finally glad someone among Adelram's pets finally noticed." Asriel opened up his Journal he scratched his head not sure whether to ask his question. Jedrick could clearly see he wanted to ask something this man piqued his curiosity "Ask your question Asriel." Asriel cleared his throat "How did the house of warriors start exactly?"
Jedrick was smiling under his helmet of course none could tell but he took a shine to this new human servant he is starting to see why Adelram took a liking to him. As the surgical drain was draining blood into several glass tubes Jedrick looked forward to Asriel it seemed like he was ready to say something he got his pen ready. Jedrick turned towards him he talked out loud making sure everyone in the room can hear "I wished more humans asked these questions perhaps my warriors would finally understand what I am trying to teach them. I shall start from the beginning."

The Grimblood's have received several distress signals from the gothic sector and finally the confirmation of the appearance of the Arch Enemy the wolves sallied out to meet them. The the traitors will break in the jaws of the Grimblood's. Their ship spilled out from the sea of souls and they saw their quarry. The wolf lord had their ship move into contact with the chaos cruiser as they prowled through space the chaos ship lance batteries turned upon them.

The space wolves did not care for such display and their void shields absorbed each impact with ease their ship faced far more fiercer guns than what the chaos ship is levelling at them. They moved in close just close enough so boarding torpedoes can be leveled at the enemy.
On the ship the blood claws got ready for battle to bloody their first enemy against traitors no less. Great stories will be said of this day in the halls the young blood claw named Jedar looked at the grey hunter leading them. "Aye I grew bored of waiting I can't wait to drive my axe in the skull of the traitors." The grey hunter leveled his eyes at this over eager pup, Jedar knew him as Ivar "Calm yourself we are not in grips with the enemy yet Jedar" Jedar scowled baring his fangs "Aye even so I can't wait to cleave these traitors and win great glory all the same."

The wolf lord over the vox of the ship began blurting commands for blood claws to head to the boarding torpedoes and thunderhawks then Ivar nodded to his pack "Get moving all you pups it's time to bleed the traitors!" Jedar snickered "Now who is getting excited?" The grey hunter laughed "Stop trying to be smart and get to your seat!"

Jedar and his fellow blood claws locked themselves into their harness there were 10 of them in total all of them waited readying themselves for battle then movement their torpedo launched. Then a thud and crash and the door slid open. Jedar jumped into the corridor of the ship and smell washed over him it was a heedy musk, mixed with piss and blood. Jedar spat "This place stinks let's kill the traitors quickly so we can leave." Then Ivar slapped him on the back "Oh not so excited now are we?" Jedar growled. Ivar led the blood claws forward.
They came across humans they look weak yet held poorly made autoguns before them. No mercy for traitors the blood claws charged chainswords, blades and guns being drawn. They cleaved the humans apart they barely offered any resistance. Some screamed for mercy, some cursed. Jedar spat wondering where the true enemy is they must of hit the lower part of the ship.

Some humans were still alive clawing at his armour some screaming for help his squad silenced all of them for there can be no forgiveness once one turns traitor. They slowly worked their way up killing more cultists. The cultist turned more of their poor weaponry upon them the bullets of the autoguns were barely making dents in their power armour. Jedar charged into their lines he hacked one cultist in half. Each of the blood claws tearing them apart with ease. Jedar came upon the last cultist alive he was shaking holding his gun tears in his eyes. The cultist bumbled a response "I never wanted this, I thought you were here to sa-" Jedar cut off the traitor's word off by hewing his axe into his head. Jedar thought to himself no mercy, they speak lies and half truths. The cultist crumpled on the floor.

Jedar looked around he saw a flight of stairs at the end of the hall Jedar looked at Ivar "Are you done killing their meat shields?" Ivar removed his chainsword from the chest of a cultist "Aye, I saw how you killed that cultist who tried to speak." Jedar raised his eyebrow "Oh did I do something wrong?" Ivar gave a chuckle "Of course not, you did good work there are times many humans on traitor ships cry for mercy or for a savior. It's good you did not listen they are traitors and heretics. Who speak lies to make you hold your advance."

Jedar shrugged "Of course I did not listen, if they were truly loyal they would of ate a bullet soon as they stepped on this hell hole." Ivar nodded "Indeed brother. Now let's keep moving."

They moved up the flight of stairs finally jedar heard the clamour of battle he saw several grey hunters in cover blasting at the heretic astartes with bolters. One grey hunter got caught in head his face disintegrated in a mist of gore. As Jedar looked upon the traitor marines their armour assaulted his senses pink, blacks and purples all mixed in eye bleeding colours. He rushed into cover along with Ivar. Ivar began blasting his bolt pistol at the traitors.
He knelt down into cover and looked at Ivar while smiling "Those traitors look bloody terrible, disgusting as well." Ivar knelt up shooting one traitor in the chest with his bolt pistol causing him to stagger and then one shot in the head "Aye disgusting lot they are the emperor's bastard children we call them." Jedar snickered "Does not matter what their names are they are traitors in the end." Ivar nodded "Aye they are pup."

They eventually cleared the hall of enemy marines Jedar got a closer look at them some of them bore no helmet he saw the clear mutation upon them some had snake like tongues hanging out. Some bore milky white skin and others had heretical tattoos. It filled him with disgust he spat acid on one of their corpses. Jedar then felt shaking "What's that?" Ivar looked over his blood claws and did a head count all were alive and some of the grey hunters were also still standing. "This is good" he said to himself he relayed an order "The ship powering up we must get to the bridge!" Jedar and the rest of his follow blood claws nodded. The leader of the grey hunters walked over to Ivar "We will keep the traitors held here, none shall pass us." Ivar gripped his arm "Fight well brother, bleed them dry." The grey hunter laughed "Aye I will they will cry blood when I am done with them!"

The blood claws raced upwards and they came upon another squad of traitor marines this time they looked to be lead by a traitor who looked like an apothecary. Ivar looked to his blood claws and yelled "Kill the traitors!" the enemy stood there impassively as they charged the ship rocked almost throwing jedar and the other blood claws off balance.
Jedar sneered "What's going on?" Jedar then heard a chuckle it was coming from the traitor Apothecary "Well it seems our plan worked..." Jedar saw the traitor apothecary walking away the doors sealed shut behind him leaving his traitor brothers in the hall with the blood claws. Jedar hated hearing the traitor speak and he walked away like a coward. He yelled and charged the other blood claws followed suit. Then the corridor began filling with mist Jedar screwed his face into disgust he could smell a sweet perfume mixed with honey and he got the hint of brimstone.

His run turned into a stride then and a walk and then Jedar and the other blood claws fell to their knees. Jedar was numb he could not move the last thing he saw was the apothecary now walking over to him the mist dissipating. He caught the last few words "The starlight king has his bounty." Jedar eyes finally slid close.

Jedar eye's then shot open he could not move, he was not wearing his armour either. Jedar tried to look around he was in a clean white room surrounded by shelves of various liquids and glassed organs. Jedar then heard a door open and in his vision he saw the apothecary from earlier. His anger rose and he strained in his bonds he wanted to tear his throat out.
The apothecary sighed under his helmet "Please don't strain the bonds and keep still" Jedar roared at the traitor "I will kill you traitor! Where are my brothers!?" The apothecary shrugged "You threaten to kill me then ask me where are your brothers? Why should I answer?" Jedar bared his fangs at the traitor "Once I am free I will remove your head from your shoulders."
The apothecary turned his back to the the space wolf and began searching the shelves for various drugs and narcotics. He began placing them on the desk next to Jedar in silence. He finally broke the silence when he placed down the final drug that had a pink like hue to it. "Your brothers are most likely dead considering the "taste" of my brothers I requested to the starlight king that I can at least have you and your leader. You see we were trying to bait space marines into attacking us we had our warp engine warmed up for a retreat when you found us. The starlight king does enjoy catching loyalists."

Jedar made a face of venom "Why? To take my gene seed of me and my brothers? Ha! Scavengers the lot of you!" The apothecary shook his head "No I need allies, the starlight's kings is planning his ascension. So there will be a power vacuum at some point and I am not exactly well liked by my brothers largely we don't have the same "interests" " Jedar roared shouting "I will never join you traitor scum! I will rather die than spit on my oaths!"
The apothecary chuckled "I know but I will simply show you a different perspective." The Apothecary got out a machine with several glass cylinders and each cylinder had a tube ended with a needle. He inserted each needle into his captive and filled each cylinder with a drug or a mix of the various jars filled with multi coloured fluid.
Jedar scowled "what are you doing to me?" the traitor apothecary was humming "Well as I said encouraging a different perspective. This machine I designed and the concoctions are going to erode your psycho-indoctrination and you will become open to "suggestion" you will be my ally space wolf." The apothecary turned on the device and it began feeding the drugs into his captive system.

Jedar felt a hundred things at once, pain, pleasure, sadness, anger and a whole range of other emotions. His eyes rolled back and he began to dream. Jedar opened his eyes he was not in his wargear and had no weapon. He was in a strange landscape it was like a garden and he was surrounded by statues of humans men, women and daemons intermingled in illicit shapes. He hated this place. He wanted to leave and save his brothers.
He walked through the garden he tried his best to ignore the smell of the flowers it was distracting him. Then as he took a step he was surrounded by pink wisps they whispered in his ear they told him that great glory awaited him. That he is killing for the wrong cause, that there is someone else would adore to have a warrior like him.

Jedar tried to shut the voices out they were lies focus on his missing brothers. The pink mist swirled together and he saw shapes forming. Woman like monsters with purple and pink porcelain skin, their chest half male and female they were cooing and walking closer their tongues lashing out their hands ended with crab like claws. Jedar looked around he needed a weapon.

He needed his axe he thought of his axe and it appeared, Jedar shocked with his axe in hand Jedar shook his head no time to think deal with the daemons and then he can think on his situation later. He snarled at the monsters and charged. The she-daemons began laughing and pranced towards him he met the first daemon he cleaved off it's arms and then it's head pink ichor splashing onto the flowers. One darted around him and and slashed him in the back with it's claw Jedar grunted in pain. He rounded on the creature and crashed his fist into its face the creature flew back crashing on the ground.

Jedar looked around he was being surrounded he snickered he fought worse odds in his trials and he charged at another daemon approaching. The daemon beckoned him closer while smiling. Jedar could not help but also smile he bought his axe down slashing across it's chest pink ichor sprayed his face.

He licked his lips upon doing so his eyes dilated his nerves were on fire he wanted to fight with these daemons more. He wanted to savour each blow each cut and as he did so slicing away at the daemons he could hear every splash of pink ichor hitting the flowers within the garden and the more he killed he started to smell sweet honey with a tinge of brimstone in the air.

It was no longer a fight but a bedlam of violence two forces cutting each other in sheer joy. He kept hacking again and again until nothing was left.
The daemons were dead his body exhausted yet he felt elated happy even there was a joy after he killed the last one his body covered in gashes and cuts and the ichor of daemons. For some reason his wounds did not hurt he enjoyed when he was gashed and when he cut the she-daemons in turn.

He heard a voice when it spoke it caused him pain and yet bought him to the brink of rapture as it spoke he never felt anything like this before he could not move "Did you enjoy it?" Jedar rasped "Yes! It was glorious! I want more let me fight and cut more...." there was a laugh mocking and seductive at the same "Not yet, you cannot join us yet to abase yourself before me to kill for me." Jedar felt the voice vanishing he yearned for it to come back to praise him, to acknowledge him he shouted "No! Please come back I beg of you! What do I have to do to see you! Please!" Jedar was now alone he felt tired for some reason he dropped to his knees. He collapsed unto the flowers he breathed it in the smell of the ichor mixing with the scent of the flowers. It was relaxing he closed his eyes.

He opened them again he was in the white room still strapped down, the surgical drains still inserted into his body. The Apothecary turned to him "You said some very interesting things you know that?" Jedar was confused "What do you mean? I don't understand." Jedar felt weak groggy even he could not think properly. He wanted to get back to that place and fight some more when he was there he felt alive more alive than ever before.

Jedar looked at the Apothecary he could not tell what sort of expression he was making it angered him. If only... he tried to move he was weak. The Apothecary went over to the cupboard again picking up concoctions and various drugs he looked at Jedar "I am increasing the dose. Oh and what's interesting is that you did regret killing the slaves on the lower levels." Jedar lurched up from his bonds "I don't regret a thing! They were traitor scum just like you!" The apothecary laughed "Oh? The people you killed were those taken from a recent raid. I watched them for a time constantly praying hoping someone will come to save them."

Jedar was silent he had no words, the apothecary then filled up the glass cylinders with even more drugs. When he activated the machine the drugs hit Jedar's system he jolted. His eyes grew tired again all he saw was the Apothecary looking at the machine.
Jedar awoke again this time he was in a long hall, mirrors lined on the walls he had his axe in hand. He kept walking Jedar sniffed the air the scent was intoxicating as he walked. Then out of each of the mirrors came pouring out even more she-daemons. Jedar readied his axe, he cleaved the first daemon in the hall ichor splashing on him yet he did not feel it on his skin. He looked at himself he was in his grey armour. When he looked at it he remembered his brothers, Ivar might still be alive if he could get through this first.
He ran down the corridor two more daemons charged at him with their crab claws snapping. The first moved in laughing and tried to reach for his neck. Jedar hewed off it's arm ichor splashing onto the mirror. The daemon did not howl in pain but in pleasure it kept up it's assault snapping with it's one claw remaining.

Jedar then felt a pain from his back the second daemon stabbed it's claw into his waist. Blood was leaking out. The second pulled its claw from his wound harshly twisting it's claw. Jedar dropped to one knee. The first was still charging towards him laughing, Jedar grunted and charged forward grabbing the daemon and slamming it into the wall with the weight of his body shattering the mirror. Jedar saw the pieces of glass spearing it's back, pink ichor dripping from the wall unto the floor. The daemon spoke quivering "I want more" it caressed his cheeck drawing blood. Jedar roared he stepped back and bought his axe down into it's face. The daemon stopped moving it was smiling still and let a rasp "That felt wonderful...."

Jedar turned to the second it stood there waiting it was casually licking up the blood from it's claw it looked at him it's black eyes blinking rapidly. When daemon was done it spoke "How kind of you to let me finish. How about we share?" Jedar spat "Never will I share something with a daemon." The daemon purred "Really? you enjoyed drinking up life blood in the garden." Jedar blinked he began to recall the taste on his lips, Jedar's breathing became heavy. Jedar stood there unmoving, why did he not move? He thought to himself, he was just watching. The daemon smiled "I will go first then.", the daemon charged it leapt over him, Jedar turned to swing his axe the daemon ducked and stood up it kicked his hand wielding his axe. The axe flew from his hands. Jedar turned his head and then the daemon leapt upon him he struggled he could smell it's musk it was heedy, intoxicating even. The daemon was laughing "As I said I am going first." The daemon bit down on his neck Jedar howled in pain he slammed the daemon onto the wall yet it held his grip onto him. The daemon tore a chunk of his flesh off and swallowed.

Blood was leaking down his armour he fall back on the wall the daemon was still nibbling clutched to his armour. Jedar grit his teeth he punched the daemon the daemon it hissed then Jedar bought his teeth down on it's shoulder he bit into its flesh he tore a chunk out the daemon it howled in pleasure. Jedar slammed the daemon onto the wall again he stepped back and he gave the daemon another punch.

The daemon sagged somewhat and leapt back clutching it's shoulder smiling. "See? That was not hard? Was it?" Jedar still held the meat of the daemon in his mouth the normal instinct would be to spit it out yet he swallowed. He felt sick but then his body felt like it was lit on fire. Jedar looked down and picked up his axe. He spoke pink ichor matting his mouth "I will save my brothers." The daemon laughed "Is that the lie you are telling yourself?"
The daemon charged, Jedar readied his axe, the daemon leapt as it did so Jedar charged forward. The daemon tried to grip him again it wrapped its arms around him. This time Jedar allowed it the daemon bit down again into the wound Jedar raised his axe and slammed his axe into it's back again and again.

It's ichor splashing across his armour eventually the daemon sagged and dropped to the floor. Jedar covered in blood and pink ichor kept walking. He was tired so very tired. He then saw the door just before it there were 5 mirrors on both sides and more daemons poured out. Jedar closed his eyes and charged.

Jedar gripped the door, he was weak he wanted to collapse wounds, blood, pink ichor, holes and slashes covered his armour. He turned the handle and opened the door. He came upon a white room. There was a table in the center, Jedar walked forward using his axe to balance himself. His right leg was heavily injured in the last fight.

When Jedar reached the table he looked forward he saw another daemon sitting there it's legs crossed. It looked similar to the others but it had jewelry on various parts of it's leather corset. It also had normal hands. The daemons tongue flicked out "You must be tired, why don't you sit down?" Jedar then looked to his right he saw a large single chair to accommodate his size.

Jedar did not have the strength to fight and if this was the leader it could kill him easily. Jedar sat down carefully blood leaking from his power armour. Jedar broke the silence “What do you want?” The daemon sat back in its chair “I want you to relax of course. So what did you think of the attentions of my fellow handmaidens?” Jedar clenched his fists “I thought nothing they were in my way, so I killed them.” The daemon leaned back her head slightly “Really? That's not what I saw.” Jedar saw the daemon reach down and brought up a large mirror. As Jedar looked at it he saw the image from his last fight he was smiling at every moment. He was smiling with glee. He was Smiling in happiness even when the meat of the daemon was in his mouth.

Jedar chittered his teeth "That is a lie!" The daemon placed the mirror back down it shrugged "Oh? You know how you felt during the Garden. Now you can't control your expressions?" Jedar could not think clearly for some reason he looked up he shouted "I need to save my brothers! I need to save Ivar!" The daemon clicked it's tongue "Excuses, Excuses fine I shall help you save them." Jedar breathed out a sigh of relief some light was returning to his eyes "Why will you help me daemon?" The daemon smiled "I want what you want." The daemon clicked it's fingers the room was covered in a smog. Jedar covered his eyes as he opened them the table was full of food of all kinds. In his dim memories of fenris most tribes would kill each other for a feast like this.

Since becoming an Astartes Jedar never really desired food in such a fashion but his mouth watered. The daemon leaned forward "Eat, you need to recover your strength don't you? Eat and relax. You can't save your brothers in such a state can you?" Jedar looked at the food he knew in some small part of his heart that the daemon was lying. Yet he needed his strength to save his fellow blood claws and Ivar. Jedar picked up a piece of meat and bit into it. The taste assaulted his senses he never tasted anything like it. Nibbles became bites and he began chewing through the food. Wine, Meat, steamed rice.

He kept eating and eating until he realised nothing was left. The daemon was still leaning forward smiling "See? I gave you what I promised look upon yourself." Jedar looked at himself all the wounds were gone, he felt full of energy. The rents and gashes on his armour vanished as well. He looked up towards the daemon it was gone, the chair was empty.

Jedar sat up he swings his axe a few times he felt good for some reason hearty even. He walked forward and a door appeared in front of him. He opened it and he came upon a small hall with a mirror at the end. He walked forward down to the mirror he looked upon it what he saw crushed him. His armour was not the grey of the space wolves but it was black and pink. Various leather straps were on sections of his armour. He cried out and then he was in darkness.
He was surrounded by his fellow blood claws they yelled at him traitor! traitor! Jedar reached out he called to his fellow blood claws "No! I seek to save you wait!" The blood claws walked away leaving him. He then saw Ivar walk forward Jedar a slight smile crossed his features "Ivar! I don't know what's going on the traitor must of done something to me!" Ivar spat in front of him "Silence pup, you know what you did. You know what you felt and that you want more. You aren't welcome to fenris anymore. You aren't a space wolf or brother anymore." Ivar walked away into darkness Jedar dropped to his knees.

He felt defeated crushed then he felt a presence behind him it's weight crushed him he heard a voice that was familiar yet not "You are no son of mine." At those words Jedar cried out he shouted at the top of his voice. Then someone walked forward it was the Daemon from the room before it stroke his head gently. "They will hate you for what you did. They are not your family anymore." Jedar breathed out "Yet I will do anything for my brothers." The daemon hugged his head "Yet they will not do anything for you. I know of someone who will love you for what you are. Who will welcome your every vice and joy without question. He will reward you. She will let you live for eternity for doing what you enjoy."
The daemon removed it's arms from him and stepped back and then the darkness blew away.

Jedar saw a great image of a palace every delight, every vice and a far greater war was there and then suddenly he was in a whirling, storm things in the form of man and women clawing at him biting him chewing on him the pain was unbearable.

Jedar eyes blinked open he lay on the medical bed, no growling no snarls he spoke plainly "Release me." The apothecary looked at the space wolf he wondered if the experiment worked correctly. The space wolf broke his thoughts and he repeated "Release me." The apothecary responded "Will you be my ally then?" Jedar looked at the apothecary "Aye I will, now release me."

The apothecary slowly released the restraints on his captive. The space wolf sat up looked around he felt more alive than he ever has been before. He got off the operating table and looked at the apothecary "Where is my wargear?" The apothecary assessed the space wolf "How can I know you are committed to be my ally?" Jedar smiled while showing his fangs.

The apothecary took Jedar to the captured grey hunter Ivar he was also strapped down. Jedar was in his full wargear his axe and his space wolf power armour. Ivar braced at his restraints and spat venom "Pup why are you with that traitor?" Jedar breathed in heavily he could smell Ivar's suspension, his anger and sadness. Jedar responded "I thought on this apothecary's offer and I took it I desire eternal glory on the other side to kill, to eat, to enjoy the pleasures that my new patron offers and all that she requires of me to reach her halls is a glorious death. I will show others the path to glory as well."

The apothecary stared at the space wolf called Ivar he could see the sadness in his gaze he wondered how effective the experiment was on his new ally? Ivar spoke slowly to Jedar "It's not too late Jedar, this foul traitor must of twisted your mind somehow messed with your thinking. Kill him now and free me and we can find our brothers." Jedar drew his axe and smiled and bought it down on Ivar again and again. Until all that was left was a pulp of meat. Jedar was breathing heavily covered in the blood of his former brother "That felt good. The sense of betrayal and the joy of killing him." Jedar turned to the apothecary raising an eyebrow "So ally? Well my new brother in arms do you have a name?" The apothecary was impassive he gave none of his emotions away in his response in a flat tone he said "Adelram."

Jedar slapped his knee "Interesting name! I think hanging with you is going to be mighty interesting." He smiled at his new brother Adelram clearly displaying his canine teeth.

Asriel penned the last part of Jedrick's story it was amazing but his mind still swarmed with questions he removed his eyes from his journal and looked at the Marine "So is this space wolf still alive?" Jedrick gave a chuckle then he was silent for a few moments "No he is long dead it's been about a century or more." Asriel frowned "I would of liked to meet him."

Agoston then removed the last surgical drains and placed the glass vials of blood into the briefcase he turned to Jedrick "Lord Jedrick the blood extraction is done." Jedrick sat up and stretched his arms "Finally never talked for so long without duel." Jedrick looked at Asriel "You are pretty interesting you know that? You are more than welcome to record more of what I have to say." Asriel smiled "Anytime?" Jedrick scoffed "Well yes, now I am actually quite annoyed that I did not get to you first. What were you before? A philosopher? Or a writer?"

Asriel scratched the back of his head "Well, I am not exactly good at fighting my lord and before I was brought here I was a simple factory worker" Jedrick stopped then removed his helmet and raised an eyebrow " The odds? A factory worker? Perhaps a plan is in the works? About the lack of combat experience? That can be fixed, to reach glory and perfection one must start from the bottom. Remember the goddess prefers the ugly man who seeks to improve his features over the pretty man who thinks he is already perfect."

Asriel looked directly at jedrick as he said this his face was androgynous with his hair cut to one side he locked that image in his mind he saw that he was also smiling showing small fangs also. He sketched that frame down and wrote down his parting words he saw him striding towards the duelling pits and Asriel just realised that everyone was silent in the room looking at him. He felt no malice or hatred a tinge of curiosity until Jedrick broke the silence "What are all of you standing around for! Back to training! Before I decide to flay one of you!"
Everyone scrambled and the sound came back into the chamber. Agoston was looking at him as always his face not giving away how he is actually feeling he simply packed up the apparatus and began walking out his head turned "Are you coming number? We have one more stop."

Asriel got up from the chair until he heard cheering and shouting and through the double door entrance he saw several soldiers holding chained up people. At the front of the group he saw the soldier named Alfred leading them. He approached Jedrick with the chained up people "My lord we captured a large bounty from the lower levels." Jedrick nodded to Alfred "And the new recruits?" Alfred saluted "Only two died to the claws and clubs of the lower level mutants and slaves my lord." Jedrick chuckled "Only two this time? Perhaps this lot are made of sterner stuff that the last group." Alfred bowed and then made his way with the chained slaves and soldiers to the shooting range then Asriel saw two people he recognized Charlie and Albert.

He ran over ignoring Agoston's instructions "Charlie! Albert! is that you?" The two men turned both were shocked Charlie spoke first "Little George you are still alive?" Asriel raised his eyebrow at him calling him that "That's not my name anymore." Charlie laughed "Oh really what is your name then?" Asriel puffed out his chest slightly and stood straight "It's Asriel now that's the name my new lord gave me." Upon Asriel saying this Albert had a surprised look on his face and said "New lord? What happened? Also why are your eyes blue?" Asriel nodded "Indeed Lord Adelram had me join his house." Asriel pulled down his black robe slightly showing the leather choker with the snake biting an apple. Asriel then scratched the back of his head "My eyes? That would take awhile to explain I think."
Charlie shrugged then he smiled "So Geo- I mean Asriel you finally moved up in the world eh?" Asriel smiled and then looked at the chained slaves "So what are the chained people about?" Albert shifted his gaze to the chained slaves "The tests in the lower levels did not end there they ran us ragged all forms of excise, weapon use and tactics training. The final test was to capture a number of slaves on the lower levels we were only given a combat knife." Asriel's eyes beamed "You must tell me about it!" Asriel began pulling out his journal charlie folded his arms "You really want to hear how we stabbed people to death, shot,maimed and chained people up? What exactly did your new lord do to you? I never knew you had the stomach for this?"

Asriel stopped thinking for a moment why did he want to hear more? The things they done were horrific but he wanted to know and then he heard someone walking over it was Agoston "Are you done?" Asriel turned "Er yes I was just saying goodbye sorry about that." Asriel bowed and walked off with Agoston. Yet he stopped and turned around to Charlie, Asriel said "Oh Charlie?" Charlie raised an eyebrow "What is it?" Asriel breathed out "You were right before and I am sorry." Charlie looked stunned for a moment, afterwards Asriel ran off. Charlie and Albert looked at each other charlie broke the silence "Do you think he would of wanted to hear what we were going to do with them?" Albert breathed a sigh "I think he would with a smile and that should worry you. I think he gave it away." Charlie furrowed his brows "Gave what?" Albert was about to speak until Alfred shouted "New recruits to the firing range!"

Asriel left the chambers of the house of warriors with Agoston. Then he began hearing gunshots and screams and he turned around Agoston then yelled at him "We are already behind schedule hurry up!" Agoston words broke his concentration but deep down Asriel was curious on what was happening inside. He wanted to know to experience what they were doing. He sighed and followed Agoston he did not want to get reprimanded again.
As they were walking down the corridor Agoston went through his pack and pulled out two gas masks one for himself and one for the number. He had no idea what his lord was thinking allowing someone like him in their circle but there are at times feuds between members and they tend to vanish. His lord even does not pay too much mind when some of his students go missing.
He made some modifications to Asriel's gas mask beforehand he has seen the effects of those who went to the house of daemons and breathed in their "toxic" mist. Most become mewling degenerates seeking pleasure most humans who join are given it in small doses. He turned to the number "Hey number here is your Gas mask" Asriel looked at it "Do I have to wear it when we visit the house of daemons? Agoston simply nodded and turned around as he put his gas mask on he was smiling.

Asriel slipped on his gas mask it was slightly tight but he bared it he walked with Agoston for a few more minutes until they came to another set of double doors. Agoston moved to knock and the side light suddenly turned green without his hand touching the door.
The doors then slid open and a pink mist bellowed out of the doors Asriel saw Agoston casually walked in and Asriel then followed on.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/11 23:19:26


Post by: shinros


Chapter 5


As they stepped into the chamber the space was as large as the house of warriors but instead of looking like a heavy training area with fighting pits and men and women at tables drinking and practising their marksmanship. Asriel stepped into a giant temple or cathedral. Censers hanged from the walls with long trails of parchment and terrifying and beautiful daemonic statues in various poses.

Asriel then could hear the droning of prayers, groans and screams he stuck close to Agoston but a part of him felt an intense need to wander and a sense of excitement gripped him. As they walked a pink smog hovered around their feet and as Asriel looked around he saw various booths he heard screaming and prayers within them. He thought to peek inside but discarded the thought focus on the task lord Adelram gave them.

They walked for a few more minutes and then they came upon a giant altar and a statue above it of a woman at least Asriel thought it was a woman with hands out like embracing a long-lost lover the statue had long flowing hair 4 small horns sprouting from its head. The statue also had one breast on the left side and a flat chest on the right. They were also two hovering crystals next to it squinting his eyes Asriel thought he saw something moving within it.

Agoston turned his head “Stop starting, don't look at such things for too long I want to get this done as quickly as possible.” Asriel could clearly see Agoston was uncomfortable here. They walked up the altar, and they saw several men and women sitting at benches or kneeling. Some with skin inked in black writing others wore full black latex suits with holes only for their eyes and mouths. Others were on the ground heavily breathing up the mist shivering with each breath.

Asriel saw that Agoston was looking around “What's the matter Agoston?” Agoston put his hand to his chin “There are no marines here they are normally here praying. Or enjoying other “Delights” “ Asriel looked around “How about we ask some people here?” Agoston scoffed “I don't think the people here are in any state to answer number.” They waited for a few moments until they were approached by a woman. A woman Asriel recognised.
She wore the same silk pink gown and had the same leather straps her body. As he remembered, her skin was milky white her body was inked with various daemonic iconography and runes and words. Her hair reached to her back her face was marred with no blemishes her face was the picture perfect form of beauty the only unnatural thing about her was her pink eyes and her pupils were slits. Her voice was like honey "Ah are both of you here to see the lords of the after battle blood extraction?"

Agoston approached the woman Asriel could see he was trying hard not to make eye contact "Yes we are Lady Isira, we are here to see Apostle Ivan and the other marines" Isira put a finger to her lips and then clapped her hands A man wearing a leather mask and simple pink robe stepped forward holding a metal case. He handed it to Agoston, Agoston clearly confused opened the case he saw several labelled vials of blood within the case. Agoston placed the case down and checked through each all the marines were there apart from one. Apostle Ivan, Agoston looked up at Isira "Lady Isira Apostle Ivan's blood sample is not here."

Isira made an innocent smile "Yes he is still in the middle of his after battle prayers." Agoston replied flatly "I see and will Apostle Ivan be done soon?" Isira nodded "Yes, you can wait here if you want. Several of the women here are quite interested in you Agoston." Asriel could see Agoston is getting nervous Agoston shook his head "I must refuse I must focus on my duties for Lord Adelram." Isira walked forward to Agoston face to face "You would refuse even me? Why don't you take off that disgusting mask? Enjoy yourself a little while you wait?" Agoston stepped back slightly "As I said Isira I must focus on the task I will sit on a bench and go through the contents of the briefcase and transfer the blood to the case Lord Adelram gave me. I thank you for delivering it to us." Isira gave a slight frown at his response.

Asriel noticed that Isira did not even acknowledge his existence in that whole exchange but after Agoston's last response she turned around pouting and walked away. Agoston breathed out a sigh. Agoston turned to Asriel "you will sit here with me and help me go through the contents of the case Number" Asriel was confused why did he need his help to go through the blood that is clearly labelled? Asriel shrugged and sat down with Agoston checking each of the blood samples.

It was over 30 minutes and the groans, screams and the mutterings of prayer did not end Asriel saw that Agoston was having a hard time to focusing. Asriel thought for a moment all the sounds going on it did not bother him in the slightest he felt pretty at ease in this place for some reason. Asriel then heard two people walking over and he saw it was Isira along with the man with the leather mask. The man simply picked up the metal case he gave Agoston he did not utter a word and he simply walked away Isira then looked at Agoston "Apostle Ivan will see you now. I will escort you to him."

Agoston hurriedly closed the briefcase full of Space marine blood he was clearly nervous "Thank you Isira lead the way." She smiled and began walking Agoston followed after her. Asriel wondered why he was so nervous and followed on.
They walked through several passages the same unending pink mist in the air. They came to double doors and Asriel saw the doors were covered in human skin. Isira rubbed the doors gently "Lord Silas made this for Apostle Ivan Agoston you should of seen it, Silas is quite an Artist." Agoston spoke "Yes, I assume this is Ivan's chamber?" Asriel saw that Agoston was trying hard not to look at the doors. Isira then pushed them open and they walked in.

As Asriel stepped in the chamber with Isira and Agoston Asriel saw various art pieces on the wall the detail took his breath away. Then Asriel looked around in the corners he saw people they seemed people men and women coupling many of them androgynous they were eyeing both him and Agoston hungrily. Perhaps if he got the chance he could ask them some questions?

Asriel looked at Agoston he was keeping his eyes straight not looking around. Like was trying to block out everything in the room. Then they saw the marine Apostle Ivan sitting on a large cushion relaxing. They stopped in front him Isira bowed "I have bought them here my lord." Ivan raised a hand and tapped the large cushions "Ah you are here, come now sit down I am sure both of you are tired." Agoston slowly made his way to Ivan and sat down on the cushion next to him and prepared the the apparatus and the surgical drains. Asriel sat down on Ivan's right.

Ivan beckoned Isira "Now girl you have been working all day why don't you sit down as well?" Isira looked up rapture clearly on her face she sat down right next to Agoston. Asriel could see Agoston was shifting in the cushion, Asriel could tell that he wanted to do this as quickly as possible and leave.

Asriel looked at Apostle Ivan he was smiling Asriel was not sure if he is allowed to ask any questions he could see that Agoston wanted to leave quickly. Yet he could not help it "My lord if you would indulge me why made you decide to start your congregation here?" Isira made a face like venom and looked in his direction "How dare someone lik-" Ivan held up his hand still smiling silencing her complaint.

Ivan turned to Asriel "You want to understand don't you?" Asriel nodded, Ivan licked his lips "Before I tell this story why not take off that mask? It must be uncomfortable." Asriel did find wearing the mask to be uncomfortable it was tight to wear. He wanted to hear Ivan's words so he began undoing the straps of his mask. He pulled it off and smiled.

Ivan nodded and smiled "See? Does that not feel better?" Ivan then gave Agoston a slight glare he was silent continuing to fill the glass cylinders with blood. Ivan leaned back in the large Cushion "Right when it started... I have such fond memories of that time" Asriel opened up his journal and looked up. He could also see Isira was also curious.

Dark Apostle Ivan of the word bearers lord of the black heart war host was chasing down a squad of the disgusting third down the streets of a hive world he had a squad of word bearers and his first acolyte in tow. He hounded them for several months by the orders of the dark council and was caught in a pitched battle for days they caught them in the middle of a raid.
He heard stories about how the emperor's children conducted themselves towards their slaves they were a wasteful lot. It was well known that they burnt through slaves quickly due to using them to fuel their base desires. They did Not know the true way of worship they are disgusting Idolaters and cowards that did not bow to chaos in all it's glory.

The word bearers legion was unified in it's devotion to chaos and organized to near legion strength. If he did not hate the emperor's children for the legion wars he would almost have felt pity for their state.

They continued chasing his first acolyte Amon wanted to get to grips with the emperor's children as much as he did "Dark Apostle Ivan how long do you think they will keep running?" Dark Apostle Ivan shook his head "I do not know the emperor's children are a cowardly and selfish lot still our brothers are on pitched battles on multiple fronts and winning. We will soon complete our task."

Amon nodded and they continued their chase they ran for several minutes until they were led into a abandoned factory. He shouted at the squad of emperor's children "So you cowards had enough of running? Today the neverborn will dine on your souls. Idolater you will die for many transgressions and your false worship" A marine who looked like the leader of the group was wielding an axe. He turned around to face Ivan his armour was black and pink with a fur pelt wrapped around his waist. His helmet was faced like a scowl the marine laughed "Aye we were running leading the prey into a trap.." Ivan raised his eyebrow "Trap? Your the one at the dead end outnumbered." The marine shrugged and sighed "You book worms always think you are superior, worship this way, worship that way thinking you are above everyone else. The choirs of the warp don't give a rat's arse about the pandering and my patron for sure does not care either all she wants is excess, pleasure and blood spilled in joyous combat. This is why word bearer the black legion, the warmaster leads and you lot are posturing yourselves in his shadow thinking your "special" or "chosen"."

Ivan's face twitched at his words this Idolater has no idea what he is saying "Your words ring hollow fool the gods have placed us here to kill you. We are the true favoured sons of chaos." The emperor's children marine tapped his axe on his shoulder "Really? This is news to me I always thought the gods preferred those who could stuff the most souls into their mouths. My lady does enjoy when I send some her way I always feel it in my bones each time I cleave someone. So why not prove it? If the gods truly favour you and you are the true "sons" face me in a duel." Ivan saw he leveled his axe at his first acolyte, Amon turned to Ivan "My lord let me kill him, crush him into dust."

Ivan looked at the marine again "Fine Amon show him why we are favoured" Amon stepped foward towards the marine. Amon shouted "You will die now dog." The marine laughed "No one has called me dog in a long time and you will die for that. My glorious death is not here word bearer." The two marines circled each other Amon drew his mace, he charged with his mace held high and made swipes the marine dodging each blow with ease.
Amon kept swinging trying to hit him and the marine was laughing "What's the matter? You hit like a normal human, aye it's my turn now." The marine moved in he waited for him to bring his power mace down again the marine drew his combat knife and stabbed into the gap of the word bearer's armour around his hand bearing his mace. The marine twisted the knife The word bearer grunted in pain he dropped his mace and that is all the marine needed "He leveled his axe at his neck and swinged taking his head off in one swipe. The word bearer's head flying in the air the marine grabbed it "Eh, that was way too easy I did not enjoy that I did not feel that tingle I get when I kill." He looked up at the word bearer "Anyway that duel bought the time we needed."

Ivan anger piling, the embarrassment and the fact the heathen has done such an act he leveled his bolt pistol at the emperor's children marine. His brothers followed levelling their bolters at the marine and his squad "You will die now" then he was consumed in a flash of light and then he was on a ship he felt wobbly off balance. The smell of musk hit his senses for some reason even if he was wearing his helmet. His brothers also looked around in confusion and he saw the marine still there holding the head of his first acolyte. Ivan twitched his face in anger they must of teleported him and his squad to their ship. Why did he not suspect it?

Ivan leveled his bolt pistol at him again and the marine smiled at him "I don't think that would be a good idea." The dark apostle looked around he saw he was surrounded by space marines and humans pointing guns at them. Ivan bit his lip "If I die I will die a martyr" the marine then raised an eyebrow "Unfortunately my lord does not want you dead." The marine then shouted "Activate the mist!" then suddenly a pink like mist began enveloping the room Ivan snickered "We are wearing our helmets if you haven't noticed" the marine shrugged clearly unaffected by it "Really now? Look again." Ivan turned he saw his brothers clutching at their necks like they were drowning. He turned to the emperor's children marine again "What have you done!?" the marine shrugged again "I dunno, I don't know how our lord makes this stuff does not seem to work on me much for some reason and he breathed in the mist greedily." The marine breathed out a relaxed sigh as he sucked the mist through his nostrils.

Ivan saw the mist creeping into his helmet somehow he tried to hold his breath find some way out of the room but he was surrounded. Even so it was like the mist had a life of its own it crept up his nostrils greedily. He could no longer breath but yet his nerves were on fire his body was getting slow, sluggish he dropped to his knees. He collapsed on the floor his eyes were getting heavy the last thing he saw was the marine walking up to him and then his eyes finally closed.

Ivan awoke again he was a medical table strapped down without his gear the room he was in gave off a sterilized smell it was pure white around him. Only shelves and cupboards were in the room and they were stacked with various drugs and organs. He struggled at his bonds he could not move, then he heard two people walking into the room they stopped in front of him. He recognized one he was without a helmet his features did not look like one of the third but of russ's sons. Ivan's mind raced wondering how on earth is a space wolf with the emperor's children.

The other he looked like an Apothecary a rare thing among their number. He spoke with venom at his captors "What are you non believers and idolaters going to do? I won't break to your crude tortures my faith is like steel." The apothecary turned to the marine "Jedar you did good work, also I shall be taking samples the fact the mist did not affect the Astartes and humans present interests me greatly." Jedar sighed "Lord Adelram, your obsession with collecting our blood is slightly perplexing."

Ivan shouted at them "Don't ignore me, what are you planning to do!" The Astartes Ivan knew to be Adelram turned to him "Yes I shall tell you I devised this plan to capture one of your number. Well specifically you, I require a specialist in the beings who serve interdimensional intelligence my other brothers love prostrating to and who they call "God" Or "Goddess". We teleported you to our ship and we already left orbit and are within the sea of souls your brothers are none the wiser."

Ivan tried to spit at them his spit fizzling on the ground "I will never serve a non believer and one who does not worship the whole pantheon." Jedar slapped his knee "Ha I told you he would say that! Now comes the fun part!" Adelram sighed "Of course I did not expect you to join me right away but I have means to convince you."

He walked over to the drawer and gathered various surgical equipment and bought it over on a small table he activated his Narthecium on his wrist the drills spinning. Ivan looked at him and shouted "What are you going to do!?" Adelram cocked his head to one side his expression hidden under his helmet "I am going to rewire your nervous system and adjust the pain receptors in your brain." Ivan began praying the words pouring from his mouth, he saw the heathen Adelram flinch for a moment. The marine he knew to be Jedar barely batted an eye.

Adelram then gathered several drugs he mixed several of them together, He gathered various surgical tubes he carefully inserted them into the word bearer. With the drains in place Adelram injected the contents of the drug into his captive. "Of course I can't have you thrashing about or distracting me in praying to emotions in energy form so you will fall asleep now." Ivan felt groggy he kept praying his eyes slowly slid closed.

Jedar looked at Adelram and sighed "I did not think you were going to put him to sleep. I wanted to see him squirm and scream" Adelram shook his head "It's More of a precaution I have seen some of their number summoning the entities with a few keywords." Jedar shrugged "They are not entities Adelram they are daemons, angels or neverborn." Adelram's head flicked to his brother "I don't subscribe to such notions Jedar these "gods" and "daemons" are a simple reflection of the subconscious nothing divine." Jedar sighed "As you say brother, as you say."

Ivan was walking in darkness he had no idea where he was he kept walking for a few minutes and stopped he looked around then he heard a voice like a whisper "My beautiful child." He saw himself walking out of the darkness. Yet it was not his voice but something altogether different it was like a blend of male and female. He looked at the thing posing as him he wore black and pink with the rune of slaanesh on his head and a snake like tongue whipping out at various moments.

Ivan recognised it at once he bowed "What do you wish of me great choir in the warp? Slaanesh.... God of excess, She who thirsts..." "I require you to show him the way..." Ivan shouted "show who! Show who the way!?" the voice spoke again "I shall tell you, but in order for me to do so you must embrace me...." Ivan hesitated "I cannot the teachings... I.." Ivan looked away and a second voice came forth out of the darkness it lurched forward gurgling and coughing. He saw himself again but he looked bloated with corruption, his belly was huge various spots of his armour had exposed skin and sores. His face was obscured in a black hood yet when he moved his face he could see the rune of Nurgle on its head the colour of his armour was extremely bruised or worn away in various areas. Ivan breathed shocked "The great nurgle, grandfather of pestilence and decay." The avatar of the great corrupter lurched up and coughed "Don't believe her lies, He spins tales to ruin you utterly."

The avatar of slaanesh hissed "Yet you seek to blunt him, twist and corrode him his path is greater under me." Ivan was not sure what to say he knew how the gods covert those to worship one of them above all else yet his legion the teachings of lorgar said they are all worth equal praise. Ivan wondered there were two missing as he thought this Ivan heard a splash and stomp. Out of the darkness again he saw himself yet it was not him. This avatar was drenched in gore and blood his face twisted into a constant state of fury and anger. A constant bleeding rune was engraved on his forehead. The mark of khorne the god of war blood, rage and fury. Then after that blue flames erupted Illuminating the darkness he saw himself again floating in the air eyes filled with eldritch power. The mark of tzeentch the god of change, flux and magic was etched on his forehead with eldritch fire.

Ivan was still on his knees he thought to himself he must truly be blessed small fragments of the gods themselves have deigned to speak with him. To aid him, It was like the the avatar of tzeentch read his mind in that single moment. His voice booming with power "I came here to disown you, not save you. You did not have the sight to see a simple trap. A trap made by blunted fools. So I will leave you to your fate."

In that moment the fires dissipated leaving Ivan in darkness again. Ivan's heart sank was this a test? Perhaps the lord of change was watching to see what he will do next. The avatar of khorne gave a guttural laugh his voice gave off an intense heat "No this is no test, I came to see your weakness and like my brother it disgusts me. You desire to be saved when you cannot even save yourself. That is what you want. Nothing else." The lord of blood points to she who thirsts and the great corrupter "They have simply come for scraps."
The avatar of khorne turned away as he walked he sank into the darkness.

Ivan turned to the avatar of slaanesh and Nurgle "This must be a test of some sort!? This cannot be the end! Perhaps this a path that leads to a possible future you are planning?" The father of plagues shook his head "Not the end, perhaps the start of a new cycle your end is coming soon but it is not right for a father to abandon his children." The lord of plagues gave a jolly laugh. The avatar of slaanesh walked forward gently stroking Ivan's head "A possible end that can lead to new beginnings. A new life of experience and excess."
Ivan's lips trembled "This can't be the end. It can't...."

His eyes suddenly flicked open blood mattered his body and he had a few scars. He was by himself in the room he tried to move then suddenly pain seared his body horrifying pain worse than any wound he has ever received. He stopped moving then nothing he tried to move his finger more pain he grit his teeth. He breathed again he started to pray moving his lips the pain started again.

He stopped moving his lips in his mind then revise the book of the lorgar within his mind, he focused steeled his mind. "This must be a test of faith. The gods are testing me to see if I endure." Ivan said to himself.

Then a marine walked back into the room. Adelram spoke "You are awake, will you join me?" Ivan made a face full of venom "Never! The gods are with me heathen!" Adelram shook his head and sighed "very well". He walked over to the cupboard and picked up several chemicals and syringes 8 in total he began extracting the contents in a syringe for each chemical.

He turned to Ivan "I made this from several drugs that increase body sensitivity, some of my brothers and even human serfs beg for this chemical. I am quite curious to see how it functions on you." Adelram injected the first syringe and distilled the contents into the bound Astartes. Ivan seized up when the needle entered his skin it was like a drill went through his arm. The contents of the drug were burning like fire in his veins. It did not help he shifted in his bonds causing even more intense pain he chittered his teeth.

Adelram raised a hand up like an idea struck him "Oh yes I forgot to mention each syringe from here on has a higher dose double than the last one." Ivan's eyes bulged wide "You are enjoying this aren't you!? Deep down you deny and pretend but you are just like your other disgusting brothers." Adelram spoke flatley " I am not. I do this because I require your services. Nothing else, I could end the pain here if only you accept my offer." Ivan squinted his eyes "Never!"

Adelram sighed "Very well." The next syringe was injected Ivan screamed he buckled in his bonds thrashing the pain was unbearable. Adelram injected drug after drug the effect becoming worse over time and then finally Ivan's eyes rolled back.
The door slid open, Alderam looked it was Jedar, Jedar was holding the head of the word bearer first acolyte Amon. Jedar whistled "Wow is he dead?" Adelram shook his head "No he is not he just fell unconscious. One more thing why do you have that head? I would of expected you to be rid of it by now." Jedar shrugged "I bought it here to antagonise him of course. Killing this one..." Jedar held the head up the head still stuck within the helmet "Was too easy to kill far... too easy.." Jedar then held the head to his chest and breathed out a sigh then smiled "The best part to killing him was the reaction the Dark Apostle made when I lopped his head off I felt that tingle in my bones. Also do you think he will accept? He is such a funny guy it would be a shame to kill him after all the work we did to capture him." Adelram responded "I am not sure the word bearers are fanatics that follow the whims of the inter-dimensional beings they make it the cornerstone of their being." Adelram looked at the unconscious Ivan "He will give into my offer in time." Alderam got out his surgical tools "I will adjust his pain receptors" Jedar simply raised his eyebrow.

Ivan awoke again drained of energy he looked around he recited the words of lorgar again but gaps were missing he could not focus properly. If he moved an inch of his body the pain will come again he was so very tired which was rare for an Astartes. He closed his eyes, his eyes were heavy. Focus on the first part, the first part of the book of lorgar the words would not come instead intense pain surged into his mind. Just thinking caused intense pain. Moving even more pain than before.

Ivan shouted "Curse you! Curse you third legion! I spit on your name!" The shouting surged another huge jolt of pain. It was like a thunderhammer slammed into his body. Ivan breathed out a gasp and fell into darkness.

Ivan sat in the darkness unmoving, all energy drained away the avatar of slaanesh walked forward and gently brushed the back of his hand against Ivan's cheek. Yet there was no pain it was euphoric even light was slowly returning to Ivan's eyes, Ivan breathed out "Don't leave... please..." The one who thirst whispered "I won't, I can be there for you forever if you just accept." Ivan was about to breathe a word until a great laugh was heard the lord of pestilence walked forward with a slight waddle "You mean you will hollow him out and leave him when you are done with him. You seek a plaything I seek a lost child."
The one who thirsts tongue flicked out "Tell him how you would save him? What will you give him?" The lord of pestilence slowly walked forward and kneeled down he grabbed Ivan by the shoulder. Ivan felt no pain, no pleasure nothing at all, the lord of plagues spoke "I will show you what I will give you my child." In that moment Ivan saw what would happen he would be there lying on the table what Adelram did to him will have no hold over him. Upon entering again he would breath out a great plague that will consume Adelram and Jedar utterly, giving them Nurgles gift, Nurgle's rot. Nothing will harm him, nothing will make him despair since he will become despair itself. He will take the ship of the heathen and turn it and everyone on board to the glory of Nurgle. Ivan saw himself as he saw the avatar of nurgle yet he saw his full face under that hood and it was a smile.

The avatar of nurgle released his grip he stood and stepped back arms opened wide, "See my child? Embrace your parent... A parent that will love and care for you. You will no longer worry, feel pain you will bring despair and joy to all!" Ivan looked directly at the lord of decay "Great nur-" The avatar of slaanesh hissed and rushed forward looking directly at Ivan. "Yet is that what you truly want? I know what you want deep down." Ivan looked into it's eyes he saw himself standing with Adelram utterly in thrall of slaanesh and someone else a man. He also saw another marine with an axe and knife there as well his armour covered in mutations and weapons. Yet he did not recognise the planet he saw it was a warzone. A great warzone with giant metal towers overhead. He was leading a grand congregation of normal Humans and Astartes forward. He was wearing the black and pink of the third. Yet he could not put his finger on where they are fighting. Until he saw other legionnaires of other legions night lords, Iron warriors, word bearers and even the black legion legion. They were all there and in the sky he saw a light falling towards them. Then he was in darkness with she who thirsts starting at him smiling with his face.

Ivan's mouth was quivering "I know.." The avatar of slaanesh breathed out "Cadia......" The avatar stood up and stepped back. Ivan lurched up and walked towards the avatar of slaanesh and grabbed it. Ivan's eyes wide "How do I get there! How! I must Know!" The shard of the god of excess smiled "If you want to know, you know what you must do." Ivan looked down then up "I-" The avatar of the lord of plagues roared "Think of what you are about to say! You giving up on joining the family! Knowing content! For this thing! It-he! She! Wants-" The one who thirst laughed "He is mine!" The lord of plagues began bubbling roaring and shouting in anger.

The avatar crumbled into dust, Ivan could still hear it's anger and rage in the background until it eventually grew quiet. Ivan spoke "What must I do?" The avatar of slaanesh smiled it whispered into his ear "Guide the serpent, and in turn it will wrap itself around him and make him embrace his gift. You know of who I speak and then you will have your desire."
Then the avatar of slaanesh evaporated into a purple mist it entered Ivan' through his mouth and ears the pain was vanishing. Replaced by something else, something euphoric it was vanishing bit by bit until Ivan's eyes rolled back.

Ivan was lying on the medical table waiting counting down the seconds "Three, two, one." The doors slid open and Adelram stepped in he looked at the word bearer lying on the operating table. Adelram activated his Narthecium, Ivan spoke "That won't be necessary." the drill on the Narthecium stopped spinning and Adelram said flatly "Why?" Ivan smiled "Since now I am going to accept your offer." Adelram looked at the strapped down word bearer "What caused you to change your mind?" Ivan snickered and said "Why the dark prince has wonderful plans for you and asked for me to aid you however I can. As you said before I had a change in perspective." Adelram turned around thinking he turned back "Very well." Adelram undid the straps binding Ivan.

Ivan sat up with a groan as he did so Adelram said "I can reverse the procedure if you want." Ivan shook his head "That won't be necessary either I am quite happy with the work you have done." Adelram his expression hidden under his helmet said "I see. "Brother" " Ivan smiled "Ah yes we are brothers now aren't we?"

Asriel stopped writing and turned to Ivan he also saw Isira was listening intently. Asriel then closed his journal and said "My lord does Lord Adelram know of that instruction. The vision of the gods?" Ivan scratched his chin "He does I told him everything in detail he thinks that I place too much stock in the words of "inter-dimensional beings" that are no way divine just pure reflections of our wants and desires." Asriel started to think and then responded "So have you found the serpent yet lord Ivan?"

Ivan sighed "I am not exactly sure yet, I am still keeping my eye out." Asriel nodded he looked over to Agoston who finished collecting the last blood sample he placed the glass cylinders into the briefcase.

Ivan looked over to Agoston and then Asriel "It seems our time is done." Asriel moved to speak but Ivan put his large gauntlet fingers on his lips "I know you want to ask more questions you are free to come and go as you wish but I am quite sure Adelram wants you back now." Agoston got up from the cushion eager to leave this place Asriel also got up and he bowed to Ivan.

Ivan turned to Isira "Please escort Adelram's servants out dear Isira." She rose from the cushion bowed and began walking out Agoston and Asriel followed. As they left Ivan gave a slight chuckle "Such an interesting form you chose my dark prince."
They walked back into the grand cathedral following Isira Asriel looked around then he saw a man stumble out of the booth in their direction. Asriel looked at the man he wore a leather latex top with black trousers he was quite large but he recognized him anywhere. Asriel ran over "Larry? Is that you? the man looked up.

Asriel saw his eyes were pink and the man smiled "Oh Asriel is that you?" Asriel was puzzled how did he know his new name? Asriel responded "Yes, how did you know about my new name Larry?" Larry stopped his eyes fading from pink back to their original colour brown he was still smiling "Oh the nice ladies told me..." Asriel seemed puzzled nice ladies? Larry nodded "Yes, oh Asriel it's so nice here those ladies do things they make me feel good..." Asriel gave a weak smile "That's great what of your wife and children? Do you feel better?" Larry scratched his chin in confusion "Asriel what are you talking about? I don't remember having a wife and child."

Asriel was shocked Asriel did not feel good about pushing the matter further and smiled "I am glad you feel better Larry." Larry nodded "It was nice seeing you Asriel you should use the booth sometime trust me it makes anyone feel better." Asriel watched as Larry staggered back into the booth.

Asriel did not know what to say he looked at Agoston by his body language he could see he was growing upset he wanted to leave. Isira lead them both to the double doors Agoston hurried out. Asriel turned to leave then heard a voice behind him "Wait." It was Isira, Asriel turned around and Isira spoke again "What is your name?" Asriel pointed to himself in confusion "Oh, My name is Asriel." Isira was looking at Asriel hungrily "You know I thought you were just a hanger on for poor Agoston but you do have beautiful blue eyes. Also you look familiar yet..." Isira leaned in close, Asriel looked directly into her pink eyes the pupils of eyes shifting to slits. She kissed Asriel on the cheek he felt his nerves standing on end for some reason, something so simple it both frighted him and made him feel exhilarated.
Asriel was breathing heavily Isira looked into his eyes again "You do indeed have nice eyes." She leaned back and began walking away she turned back one more time smiling and then continued walking into the dark corridors. Asriel then looked around he saw everyone was looking at him they were whispering to each other Asriel caught a few "He is so lucky.", "He got a kiss from priestess Isira he must be blessed!"

Asriel did not know what to think or why he allowed her to do such a thing, He hurried out towards Agoston. He was back in the corridor the twin doors slid close. Asriel noticed as they closed the pink mist was sucked back in like it was alive. Asriel was breathing heavily and tried to relax he then saw Agoston was tapping his feet in irritation "What took you so long?" Asriel rubbed his hands on his robes casting his eyes down "Nothing, Nothing at all."

Agoston glowered at Asriel "We took longer than necessary Lord Adelram might be upset." Agoston took off his gas mask and began walking he thought to himself wondering how the number is still upright. He has seen the effects of those who breathe in the mist or those who gaze at the house of daemons idols for too long. Most turn into degenerates basking in the excess the house provides and a fewer number their senses unable to handle the mist crumble into gibbering fools.

He dismissed such thoughts focus on getting the blood back to Lord Adelram. Asriel saw Agoston was flustered or deep in thought as they were walking he went through the last few pages of his Journal. The stories of lord Ivan and Jedrick, sketches of them and the idols and statues seen in the cathedral. Asriel smiled and closed his book.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/12 20:12:12


Post by: shinros


Chapter 6

Asriel with Agoston were at Lord Adelram's chamber doors Agoston knocked on the door and the light on the right chimed green. They entered, Adelram was sitting at his desk going over notes as always he looked up at both of them "You took awhile, far longer than normal."
Agoston bowed "Apologies my lord Asriel began questioning the heads to fill out his book." Adelram sat back in his chair "Really? Asriel what do you have to say for yourself? If you cause delays, you delay my work." Asriel looked meekly at the ground and said "Apologies lord I was just curious about the past history of Lord Ivan and Jedrick." Adelram leaned back up the clear puzzlement in his voice "They told you?" Asriel nodded "Yes they told me everything."

Adelram laughed "They must really like you then but that might not be exactly a good thing especially in Ivan's case. They both sent me messages of praise for you." Adelram got up again and stood over Asriel his large frame eclipsing him "You got them to like you, but you must be careful they don't have your best interests in mind. I have your best interests in the end Jedrick is mad thinking having a glorious death will lead him to an eternity of feasting, fighting and enjoying every vice in the palace of a interdimensional being or intelligence. Ivan bays at the skies shouting in pleasure thinking that his god speaks within his mind."
Asriel scratched the back of his head "But my lord there must be a grain of truth there." Agoston face screwed into disgust "You dare!" Adelram held up his hand "Very well Asriel if you can explain in satisfactory manner of the tastes and inclinations of my brothers you may leave." Asriel gulped "If I don't?" Adelram leaned in close "I will kill you and harvest your eyes, now explain." Asriel looked over to Agoston he was smiling.

Adelram folded his arms "Now explain! First is Jedrick, how does his madness and those who follow him make sense?" Asriel cleared his throat "I have found you believe that they worship inter dimensional beings yes? It is not divine in any form, That the warp itself is a simple reflection of one's desires and wants it shifts and changes to accommodate us." Adelram nodded, Asriel continued "You say it's impossible it's madness but the fact he has gathered so many followers why can't it be true? If the warp is a reflection of one's desires and heart if a great number of people truly believe said edicts why wouldn't that become reality in the warp?" Adelram stood there for a moment silent "I can see your reasoning I understand but don't agree your explanation is acceptable. Now Ivan explain how my procedure Is now causing Ivan pleasure instead of pain."

Asriel crossed his arms thinking "Amethyst explained some of the basic body functions to me during the tour, we feel pain because our brain is sending a message that a part of our body is hurt. Yet he now feels pleasure with each movement, with each prayer. Yet before it causes pain. The length of time needed for one to cause pain to be pleasure is significant is it not? Adelram nodded "Well yes even among my brothers it took falling to complete degeneracy for them to turn to pain implications to stimulate themselves." Asriel then asked "During the time you had him on the table did it look like he fell to that state?" Adelram responded "No he reacted normally to the procedure. Until the last day on the sixth day." Asriel nodded again "Now from what I gather he was really religious what if that interdimensional being granted his desire? he wanted the pain to end, he wanted the pain to go away. What if possibly this being he called god or goddess altered what you did to him?" Adelram slightly raised his voice "Impossible! The mutations you see on some of my brothers is due to exposing themselves to the energy of the warp causing horrific and random change to the body nothing divine nothing deliberate. So you are saying something deliberately altered my procedure in a controlled manner to achieve a result it desired!?"
Adelram looked at Asriel he saw those blue eyes it felt like he was gazing into his soul his doubt, Asriel spoke again "Have you checked him since the procedure?" Adelram was silent for a moment he then turned to Agoston "Hand me the briefcase" Agoston handed the case over gently to his lord, Adelram spoke again his voice not showing a hint of emotion "Now both of you leave you are dismissed."

Adelram placed the briefcase on his desk he then sat down, he activated his com and a voice came on "Yes lord Adelram?" Adelram spoke flatly "Ivan I want to see you in the operating theatre." There was silence for a moment still Adelram thought he heard Ivan laughing slightly then his voice came through the vox again "Very well my lord."
Adelram sat back in his chair and he murmured to himself "It's impossible."

Asriel sat on his bed it's been a few days and he was thinking of the recent displeasure of Lord Adelram some part of his heart clutched in fear for his life still he told them to leave but did not say whether he correctly answered his questions. Perhaps he might try to kill him later? Asriel's mind raced with questions he opened up his Journal, as always reading through its contents calmed his heart whenever it is weighed from stress. He went over some of the medical notes Amethyst has been teaching him things. Things that he would never learn back on Athor.

He then looked back on Jedrick's and Ivan's stories they were horrific yet they resonated within him he knew that there must be more, this could not be everything. Asriel closed his book again thinking, Adelram most likely did not want to see either him or Agoston for awhile. He thought of Larry, Albert and Charlie they did not seem like "friends" to him but he wanted to talk to someone. Then he thought of Amethyst but then dismissed it she is most likely busy.

Asriel hopped off his bed pacing in his room. He never could do this before since his apartment and his slave quarters had barely any space to walk around yet it felt good just to simply walk around thinking. Thinking of other things than work or keeping track of money to make sure he has enough rations to feed himself. For once he felt free in a sense more free than he ever felt living on Athor. Then he remembered the invitations of Jedrick and Ivan, after the experience of the House of daemons he was not exactly comfortable going back there especially if Isira is there.

Upon thinking her name Asriel touched his cheek as he did so memories of his dreams came flooding back then he touched his lips, his first kiss was in his dreams when he thinks back to that moment his gut twists in disgust yet he also feels a deep sense of longing. It felt wonderful and horrible at the same time compared to Isira doing a simple kiss on his cheek. Then his thoughts shift to the house of warriors Jedrick had a personality that simply pulled people in. Like the sense that you can be "better" you can achieve and push yourself further and further it was a comforting type of feeling in that moment Asriel decided, he would visit the house of warriors again.

Asriel left his room and began walking down the hall he saw various servitors and servants fixing open wiring and various pipes in the ships corridors and yet he kept thinking what exactly does Adelram want him to do? What does he want him to learn? He is not a doctor or from a family of doctors, he is not a noble either nor a savant of technology. He was a simple factory worker that can write.

He shook his head focusing on the route to get to the house of warriors then he saw Apostle Ivan. They crossed paths but Asriel stopped and bowed as he did so Apostle Ivan stopped and gazed at him he was first to break the silence "I have to thank you Asriel." Asriel surprised lent backup and said "Why? What did I do?" Ivan smiled a sort of smile that would send shivers down one's spine and said "Why? Lord Adelram wants to see me in the operating theatre. Well this is like the fourth time he has called me."

Asriel started to become nervous was it he feared for his life if Adelram did not find anything? Or that he might be right? Asriel felt he was caught between both feelings. Ivan clearly saw his composure and leaned down just enough to whisper in his ear "Have faith in the goddess little serpent." When Ivan did that Asriel felt cold his mouth started to dry he was shaking and then Ivan leaned back smiling and continued down the hall.

Asriel stood there for a moment stunned he could not be the serpent in Ivan's story he was a simple young man, a factory worker. What would a god want with him? What makes him important? Asriel then slapped his cheeks with both hands trying to regain focus he continued walking down the hall to the house of warriors.

He was here again by himself this time for his own reasons, he knocked on the doors and the vox blurted to life "Who is it?" Asriel responded "It's Asriel, Lord Jedrick said I can come and go as I wish." The vox blurted again "Oh you.. Lord Jedrick could not stop talking about you when you left." Suddenly the light on the right of the door chimed green and the double doors slid open.
As Asriel stepped in almost everything was the same people drinking at tables, fighting, Space marines and Humans watching the fighting pits, Space marines dueling and checking their weapons. Asriel walked around just taking everything in he looked at one of the Astartes checking his sword. He opened his journal and began sketching the space marine down Asriel could tell the amount of care and time the space put into handling his blade.
He had no idea how the blade worked but the Marine was handling his blade like how one would handle their small child delicately taking parts of the blade off cleaning each gently. As Asriel looked closer he could see runes on the blade well words than runes it seems like it spells out a name at least Asriel thought so. He copied down the name in his journal Aisma'umm.

As Asriel wrote each syllable down into his Journal he started to get a slight pounding headache when finished he had to take a breath for some reason. When he closed his journal he looked around again he saw some soldiers firing guns at the range and another group in a circle listening to a commander with a knife showing them movements. He looked around wondering if the soldiers are happy being here. Did they feel the same sense of freedom he did? Or are they doing what they must?

Asriel sighed and wondered what he should do he looked around seeking a place to sit. He saw an large empty chair made for three people and a table in the corner no one seemed to be there and he thought perhaps he could write in his journal without being surrounded by drinking soldiers. Asriel made his way over and looked around before sitting it seemed no one payed mind to him perhaps with this he can concentrate as he sat down the chair was quite hard but not exactly uncomfortable either.

He opened up his Journal again on the page of the sketch with the Astartes maintaining his sword Asriel smiled slightly he then looked up at the soldiers just going about their business and started to sketch and write. He became lost in his work looking up every few seconds to capture the thing he was drawing. Until a shadow loomed over him Asriel looked up he saw a soldier in front of him he wore combat trousers and a combat vest. He was chiseled and well built his face was also obscured with a gas mask.

The soldier snorted and said "You are in our space, move" Asriel seized up and said "Sorry I did not know this was your space." The soldier crossed his arms and responded "I don't care for your apologies, move. This space is for proper soldiers and warriors not book worms and pencil pushers like you."

Asriel shut his book and quickly got up and tried to hurry forward then as he was slightly running forward pass the soldier his feet felt something hard and Asriel tumbled forward. Asriel crushed onto the ground his hands were slightly bruised the soldier was laughing and said "Oh sorry about that my mistake." As he was laughing several other soldiers came over Asriel saw they were men and women also wearing jackets to vests and combat trousers.
Asriel slowly got up brushing the dust off his robes he turned to the soldier smiled and bowed "Sorry about that, I did not see your feet." The soldier in the gas mask responded in a growl "Are you trying to mock me?" Asriel meeklishly responded "No, it might of been an accident that's all." One of the soldiers that came over shouted "Sock him one Anthony!"

Asriel recognized the name, it was the name of the soldier that escorted him as a prisoner to the Thunderhawk and the one who showed him his room in the slave quarter. Anthony then moved forward and grabbed Asriel by the cuff of his robes and said "I should I don't like your face either, you are not a warrior or a soldier why is Lord Jedrick interested in you?" Asriel looked around no one was coming to help it seems people coming to blows were common everyone went on with their business like nothing was wrong.

Anthony spoke again "Don't look around no one will help you here." Anthony then raised his fist and struck Asriel in the face, Asriel face his cheek thundered in pain he felt his nose was starting to bleed. Anthony kept striking him again and again Asriel felt helpless his face ached then in his mind a darkness was closing around him the same darkness from his dreams it was like a chill and then a shot of warmth.

A voice was echoing was he losing consciousness? Then the voice responded "No you are not" Asriel was confused he just felt his face being pounded. The voice kept talking the voice seemed firm but quite feminine as well at least he thought it was "Listen and speak this". The words if they were words formed in his mind each syllable felt like his mind was being crushed it was pure agony to stay focused the pain was far greater than the beating being inflicted upon him. The word was like a name in several sections each part causing more pain than the last in his mind.

Asriel tried to speak his nose bleeding, his right eye bruised, cheeks bruised. He began to speak as he said the first part "Mavu" the word did not slide of the tongue right as Asriel uttered this word sparks or wiring in the room flared and lashed to life servitors and serfs working on various parts of the room were shocked and burned by the sparks. Through his left eye he saw Anthony gripping his head in pain Asriel uttered the next part "Lyasala" Asriel then saw several of the soldiers in the group watching his beating their noses and eyes started bleeding some started to vomit. As Asriel said this several of the Astartes their heads flicked in their direction some got up from their chairs others stopped sparing.

Anthony loosened his grip on Asriel clutching his head Asriel dropped to his knees in that moment he did not realize he was smiling and uttered the final part "Ummphalei'iss". Asriel then looked up he saw the lights change to red and alarms began to ring several Serivtors were reduced into dust and even more soldiers not within vicinity began vomiting, some culvulsing on the floor. As Asriel looked at Anthony he saw Anthony screaming bashing his head into the floor again and again small parts of skin flying off and one final crack on the floor Anthony layed there silent twitching.

Asriel was still on his knees then he heard stomping coming from behind then a sword was drawn to his neck. Asriel looked up and saw it was a space marine several actually some with bolters pointed at him. The Space marine with the sword spoke with a tinge of disgust "You will not move from this spot. Move and I will remove your head from your shoulders." The marine looked over to the soldiers looking at the spectacle of Anthony's beating and ordered "You lot will pick up the corpse and have it discarded to the lower levels." Then he turned to the Space marine Asriel recognized to be Noxus and said "Contact Jedrick." Noxus nodded and responded "Yes Sebastian." The marine turned around and tapped a part of his helmet he looked to be in conversation.

Sebestian then turned to Asriel again as Asriel saw his face directly his features were will chiseled bearing the same Androgynous look as Jedrick the different being he had a mane of white hair. Asriel noted his eyes were cold distant he felt more than anything that he wanted to kill him and get back to what he was doing. Sebastian said "Considering Jedrick seems to like you is the reason why your head is not on the floor. Be silent remain in place and do not say a word. If I see your hands moving I will remove them. If I see your mouth move your head will be on the floor."

Asriel looked down and remained silent.

Asriel felt like he was waiting an age until he heard the double doors opening and closing again the same stomping with the sounds of little feet following afterwards. Asriel tried to look he saw Jedrick and he recognised two other people following from behind him Charlie and Albert. Asriel was not sure whether to feel happy or fearful at the moment. Sebastian's sword was still near his neck and finally Jedrick approached he was wearing his helmet. His voice came through like a lions growl "From what I know so far I had several servitors reduced to dust, machinery that was fixed or in the process of being fixed are now malfunctioning or destroyed and several soldiers are no longer fit for training and one bashed his head into the floor. Just from one man uttering a word or "spell"." Sebastian simply nodded "Yes, you should be aware of the policy on witches Jedrick, Ivan gets his hands on them." Jedrick responded "Aye but are you sure he is a witch?"

Sebastian lips curled in disgust and said "Considering what he did? Yes, you hear the rumours this man is strange he got into our lord's graces so quickly and you are fascinated with him as well. Even that Apostle is fascinated by this mere man. He is weaving a spell around you!" Jedrick shrugged and said "Can't help it if I like him don't think I am under a spell, I fought and killed witches before."

Asriel noticed everyone man and women were in utter silence as the marines spoke. Then against better judgement Asriel spoke his voice came out like a squeak "I just said a name that appeared in my mind." Asriel realised speaking caused quite a lot pain his face straining at the injuries inflicted on his face. Still when he uttered those words Sebastian face twisted into disgust "You shall speak when you are ordered to little man." Jedrick sighed and knelt down in front of Asriel he removed his helmet and looked him into the eyes "Asriel, tell me exactly what you said whisper it into my ear as quietly as you can." Asriel nodded and leaned forward Asriel just knew the name word by word as quiet as he can he uttered the words again in Jedrick's ear.

As Asriel finished he leaned back he looked at Jedrick and saw a his right eye twitch a little and stood up again. He turned to Sebastian and said "He is not a witch he just said something a little foolish and had no true understanding of the weight of what he said." Asriel saw all the marines began to relax slightly Sebastian's cold eyes fell on Asriel then he looked to Jedrick and he simply turned away and went back to training. Other marines followed suit but Asriel saw some of the soldiers still looking at him in silence.

Jedrick then shouted at them "Well back to training! The lot of you! We might be going on a raid in 10 minutes or and Hour! Back to your sections!" The soldiers hurried back to their tasks and training regimes. Jedrick turned to Asriel smiling he spoke with a tinge of laughter "You sure know how to cause a show Asriel!" He slapped his knee laughing a Asriel was not sure whether to feel relieved or scared.

Asriel then stood up and brushed his robes, Jedrick leaned in close his face now completely serious and spoke almost in a whisper "Don't utter that name again, the fact that name was placed on you at this moment that means the eye is on you now. Watch your step." Jedrick leaned back and smiled again and continued speaking "Since you also wrecked many things here and pushed work back you will be helping to clean up."

Asriel figured this was part of a punishment of sorts and simply nodded so he got to work of course Jedrick had his face treated it did not make the cleaning up any easier. Still while working Asriel did prefer this sort of punishment than having his head removed from his shoulders. The work lasted a few hours before he was allowed to leave just before he left he saw Jedrick and Sebastian talking sitting on Jedrick's large chair.

He did not have time to look at them since many of the house of warriors wanted him out of their space and area as quick as possible. Asriel began walking back to his room to rest but as he was walking he took out his journal and wrote that name or word down. "Mavu'Lyasala'Ummphalei'iss". For some reason it was a strain to write like a part of his mind or even his hand was keeping him from writing it down completely yet he was able to note it down. As Asriel closed his journal for some unfathomable reason he could not help but smile.

Jedrick sat back in his chair Sebastian next to him watching everyone train and then Sebastian shifted his gaze to Jedrick he spoke smoothly as always "Lord Adelram is taking time to announce the next raid. This hunger this "need" gnaws at me Jedrick, Adelram also has us holding back only allowing us to satisfy ourselves on hunting the mewling slaves on the lower levels. Even then he does not allow us to kill much at all."

Jedrick rolled his eyes and responded "This conversation again? I am not going to betray him, never will I raise my axe to him. He will rise Sebastian we have to be patient my Lady has shown me this and we will be great and feared." Sebastian sighed "Truly? I haven't seen anything yet he still clings to his ways. He spits the edicts of Fabius mocking the faith at every turn and you think he will rise? I think the one who thirsts will punish him."
Jedrick smiled at Sebastian showing his fangs Jedrick Sebastian shifted in his seat, Jedrick noticed whenever he showed his fangs to other members of the third they grow uneasy. Jedrick then spoke in a hush "Punish? The lady who dwells in the palace is giving us the slow burn Sebastian just wait enjoy the ride. Things are already moving. When we reach the end? It will be worth it..." Sebastian responded "Why do you think that?"

Jedrick was still smiling and said "Because of Asriel of course." Sebastian almost laughed and said "Because of him!? He is just a mere man! A man who may have been raised up but he looks clearly out of his element he will be cast down or killed eventually. Also why do you refer to the dark prince as your lady?" Jedrick frowned " On Asriel, Do you truly think that? As you said before when he trashed everything a factory worker is taken in a raid the only thing they are good for is the work of slaves and in a few days he risen right into the closest servants to the Lord of our host. Then in a few days after that I am called to Adelram's chamber and he is questioning me at length about my faith, possible effects of the procedure and if I have been feeling differently lately. Also I refer slaanesh to my lady because she is. She is also yours as well she loves all of us and wants what is best for us to enjoy and revel in all the bounties of the galaxy until we either rise or die. " Sebastian then leaned back into the chair breathing heavily "Very well I accept your viewpoint but Jedrick how do you deal with it? Duels and slave hunting can only do so much yet you are god-touched your hunger and need to feel must be far greater than ours."

Jedrick snickered and leaned forward "I do not for nothing on the ship can sate it, I realized that a long time ago how I feel Sebastian? It is like there is a giant abyss in my gut, my nerves feel like they are dead I can't feel anything, Duels can't excite me and the blood of slaves does not light my nerves on fire. It is pure agony but the greater it gets I know my Lady's love is grower ever more why I think this? Since when I step on the battlefield the rush, the sensation returns in ever great cascades she expects more, wants more driving me to seek my glorious end and even greater thrills and opponents. To die meekly is to reject her, to satisfy myself on lesser things is also a rejection in my mind. More we must always seek more Sebastian to think we can satisfy ourselves on such small things is a affront to the path we are walking in excess. In suffering we grow, Suffering is our wine and meat. Look to the people we took on Athor in the lower levels many of them jumped to our side? Why? It's due to suffering they wanted more out of their lives they suffered and endured then in turn they now have greater bounties. Look at our own servants and what we do to them, we push them and they suffer from all the training and pain yet in the end they are better for it. Some of our best are ex-slaves of the lower levels. Why have they risen so fast? They know of the suffering and hardship of the lower levels. So they push further compared to the person who had everything given to them. Jedrick shifted his gaze at the newest members of his house Charlie and Albert. Jedrick stretched and continued speaking "Now in our case? The dark prince causing the suffering to increase? Means we are growing even further."

Jedrick then sat back and he saw Sebastian looking forward his face stony he broke the silence "Perhaps you are right then. I will be patient sometimes I wonder it was a shame you were not with us back then you would of been an asset in Horus's war. You would of made a fine member of the third legion. Perhaps even the Phoenician might of held you in high regard." Jedrick shrugged "Even if I do not bear any of your gene father's genetics none of you have treated me any differently. You treat and see me like one of your own anyway."
Sebastian leaned forward and looked at Jedrick "What do you think of what Asriel did here today?" Jedrick simply smiled with full fangs and said "It made me excited Sebastian as that was one more step on the path for us to becoming great and feared." Sebastian raised an eyebrow "Why is that? We are still in this mess if we return to the eye we will be killed by rival warbands the number of marines we have is too low. Even if we have a great amount of human soldiers and slaves" Jedrick looked at Sebastian straight in the eyes "Why? A normal man who knows the name of an exalted one and is not reduced to mush? Why the lady who dwells in the warp has great things in store for us Sebastian that is why I am not the slightest bit worried." Sebastian sighed "I hope you are right brother." Jedrick simply smiled as always with anticipation.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/13 01:09:22


Post by: shinros


Chapter 7

Asriel awoke in his bed he was groggy but felt refreshed after aiding in the clean up, he put on his robes and grabbed his datapad looking through the messages wondering if Lord Adelram has contacted him in any form. Nothing, no new messages then he heard a knock on his door.

Asriel walked over and opened it he saw it was Amethyst she was smiling as always Asriel wondered how she can always remain cheerful. She walked into his room Amethyst said "It's been awhile I am just checking up on you." Asriel smiled weakly "Thanks I appreciate it. How are you Amethyst?" Amethyst nodded "I am doing great! Working on various experiments and my new drink of course." Asriel noted she always beamed whenever she mentioned her drink.

Amethyst continued "Still there are rumors flying about your conversation with Lord Adelram, Asriel you need to be careful I have seen what happens with those who fall out of favor." Asriel sat on his bed and looked down "I know, I don't know why I said what I said but I couldn't help it I felt that Jedrick and Ivan's stories were enlightening and lord Adelram dismissing it in such a fashion..." Amethyst sat at Asriel's desk and turned the chair in his direction "Well whatever you did he has not seen any of us yet. He has not even called me to handle anything. Many of the other snakes are getting agitated. I heard rumours on the wind that some were planning to try and kill you." Asriel looked up immediately when she mentioned some among his house is planning to kill him.

Asriel shook his head in disbelief "Kill me? Are you serious!?" Amethyst nodded "Yeah, they assume if they kill you they may win his favor back but whatever you did in the house of warriors changed everyone's mind." Asriel breathed a sigh of relief at Amethyst words she continued" those lot talk quite a lot at Jim's bar some talk that you did witchcraft, some among the house of daemons think you are god-touched."

Asriel put his hand to his chin lost in thought, there is no way he is a witch that can't be Jedrick said so. Asriel looked up at Amethyst and said "Lord Jedrick said I was not a witch, but he said I simply said something foolish, words that should not be uttered." Amethyst looked at Asriel her face not betraying what she was thinking she then spoke "That might be the case but you know how rumours can be, anyway for now keep your head down. Don't do anything silly for now."

Asriel nodded and smiled "Thank you Amethyst." Amethyst then got up and walked over to his door she smiled and waved goodbye and she left. Asriel was then alone in his room his mind raced over yesterday's events. What could he do? Where could he go? He thought of the house of daemons and that word or name that he uttered. Out of everyone on the ship they would most likely know more. Jedrick said not to utter the word again to forget it but he could not he was curious why did he know it? Why did uttering it cause such damage?
He was somewhat scared but he had nowhere else to go at the moment and if Amethyst was correct and some among his house wish him dead he would be safest at the house of daemons since many give it a wide berth.

Asriel then latched on his journal on his shoulder and walked out of his room. He followed the same path that he took with Agoston as he got nearer he swore he could hear laughter at the edge of his mind. Each step the laughter grew in sound until eventually it stopped when he reached the double doors leading to the house of daemons abode.

As before the doors simply slid open the same mist pouring out, Asriel walked in this time without a gas mask for some reason he did wonder why it was necessary to wear one the incense did not bother him in the slightest. As he walked down the small hall he came within the large area as before it was shaped into a cathedral statues everywhere Censers hanging from the ceiling.

As before Asriel saw the giant statue of the woman with horns and long flowing hair for some reason looking at it calmed his senses. He looked around and found an empty bench and sat down he opened up his journal and began sketching. People walking in an out of the boothes moaning and muttering prayers and sketches of the statues Asriel did wonder where were all the Space marines? He did not see them before he wondered what do they do here?

Still strangely he found the place a lot of more comfortable to write in he felt relaxed no one bothered him everyone around him just went about their business and prayers. Until someone suddenly sat down next to him someone he recognised it was Isira. She simply smiled she said "What brought you back here Asriel? Taking in the sights? Wanting to sample the sensations available?" Asriel felt nervous around her for some reason she spoke too smoothly and when she speaks it's like she is trying to draw you in. Asriel frowned slightly he responded his voice meek "No reason I just wanted a calm place where I could write." Isira tapped her finger on her lips gently "That's it? Well after the news of what happened in the house of warriors I am sure you would want a safe haven. Anyway Anthony deserved it."

Asriel heart skipped a beat Anthony deserved the death he got? Him uttering those words caused him to bash his skull into the floor until death. Asriel then shifted in his seat feeling uncomfortable Isira simply smiled again and continued speaking "You feel regret for what you did? Why should you? He physically assaulted you due to jealousy most obviously seeking your death, I can still see the bruising around your right eye and lips." Isira then gently touched his bruise around his right eye her hand was cold but it was gentle like a mother caring for her injured son.

Asriel was almost lost in that simple action until he shifted slightly and moved to speak "Isira I wanted to ask you a question." Isira crossed her legs and leaned back slightly "What question do you want to ask Asriel?" Asriel licked his lips "I want to show you the word I recorded can you tell me what it means?" Asriel still felt slightly worried and he started to gaze down he wondered if showing Isira the name might kill her. Then Isira grabbed his chin gently with her hands and bought his face up to hers she said "Do not worry for my safety you can show me Asriel."

Asriel breathed out and opened his Journal he went to page where he wrote down the word, Isira then looked at the name no reaction whatsoever. She sat straight and crossed her arms she spoke flatly "That word is the name of a neverborn, considering the length of the name it's a very powerful one. How did you get this?" Asriel did not exactly like revisiting that memory but he told her of the events darkness reaching into his mind and it was like each syllable was engraved, like it was forced into his mind.

Isira listened in silence simply nodding at various points after Asriel finished his explanation she spoke "In my eyes it seems ordained that you received that word at that moment." Asriel was surprised he then said "Ordained? Really? What makes you think that?" Isira simply bobbed one of her crossed legs smiling "Well think on how fast you have risen, majority of slaves are killed within the first week of being put on the lower levels. Then you rise into the confidants of the leaders of the host. Even upsetting our leader and the fact you are still alive, I have seen him kill his servants for lesser affronts. After that you receive the name of a powerful neverborn. I feel things are moving around you that slaanesh the dark prince is moving you for a purpose."

Asriel thought to himself Ivan and Jedrick said something similar before he looked at Isira "If slaanesh has a plan what is it? What am I meant to do?" Isira simply shrugged "None knows the minds of the gods but it's clear the eye is on you for good or ill."Asriel simply sighed at least he feels less in the dark than before but one other question bugged him he simply blurted it out "Isira where are the space marines of Ivan's house?"

Isira smiled again an evil kind of smile she said "Well the reason why you haven't seen them is that they are normally in their private chambers praying or visiting blessed sensation on the slaves on the lower levels." Asriel raised his eyebrows in surprise "What do you mean by blessed sensation?" Isira laughed it was a light kind of laugh but it chilled Asriel soul slightly she stopped and responded "Well you see the house of warriors tend to hunt slaves for sport but the blessed Astartes of our house know how to visit pain upon someone yet not kill. It's delicate and it's gotten to the point that many in the lower levels accept it willingly with joy even."

Asriel could not understand how someone would gain joy over such a thing but he did not question it further. Asriel then heard stomping behind him he looked back and he saw it was Ivan. Isira then sat up she approached Ivan and they chatted for a few minutes after the conversation was done Asriel saw Ivan was smiling slightly.

He walked over with Isira and said "My dear Isira just told me of your questions. She gave you a surface understanding but would you like to learn more of the neverborn Asriel?" Asriel's heart began thundering in his chest at most he had barebones information on them deep down Asriel was still scared of them considering the events in his dreams but he was still curious he wanted to know more. Asriel simply nodded, Ivan seemed happy at his answer he then said "Good! Now follow me."

Asriel followed Ivan and Isira away from the centre statue of the giant cathedral and next to one of the booths there was a giant runed door. Ivan muttered a few phrases and there was chime and Ivan pushed the doors open. Ivan walked in, Isira followed as Asriel tried to look down the hall they entered all he saw was darkness, he also heard moans and screams he simply followed on.

As they walked through the corridor Ivan began speaking "You see Asriel, neverborn are shards of a god given form. They are their messengers, Taskmasters and warriors. Yet they cannot exist in our reality they can be summoned and bound but eventually they fizzle out and return to the warp. There are lesser shards and Greater shards."

They kept walking for awhile Asriel then was taking notes on the last conversation as he finished they came upon a hall. There was people kneeling down in runic circles men women they wore black latex suits and bound in chains. Some were groaning some were convulsing on the floor. Ivan then turned to Asriel he continued his explanation "Of course there are other ways you can bring the neverborn forth you can summon them within a host. They then can use that host to come forth in reality they twist the host into the form that pleases them and set forth on the task of the gods. Still before this can be done at times the vessel needs to be properly prepared."

Asriel looked up from his Journal and asked a question "Prepared in what way?" Ivan smiled at the question he answered "Well in our case we follow the dark prince the god or goddess of excess. Pain and pleasure is visited on the vessel in great amounts their screams of agony and pleasure, their body throbbing to sensation is a great "beacon" to them. Would you like to see?" Asriel cast his gazed down slightly and Ivan raised his hand and said "You don't need to worry Asriel everyone in this room are volunteers."

Asriel was shocked volunteers? Why would anyone want to subject themselves to that? Ivan looked at him it was like he was reading his thought he spoke "To serve of course, the most holiest thing you can do is allow the divine within your flesh. In my old legion many of my own brothers subjected themselves to the long rituals to become one with the neverborn. Now Asriel follow me." Asriel was unsure but for some reason he followed he wanted to see what happened he took each step the first was heavy but as he walked with Ivan and Isira each step became lighter.

They stopped in front of one of the circles Asriel looked at the circle and decided to copy it down and the runes around it. Ivan pointed at the accompant within it within the suit it looked to be a woman Ivan then said "This is sister Valara, she killed many minions of the false emperor and corrupted many to our cause. Yet her heart began to feel hollow each sensation growing duller each corruption became easier. So he offered herself for the ultimate service offering her flesh up to the neverborn."
Asriel then nodded Ivan smiled and said "listen carefully to the words Asriel." Ivan closed his eyes and began chanting he spoke each word slowly so Asriel could jot it down as he reached the end of the chant he spoke a name of a neverborn. He then knelt down he drew his combat knife and cut a line on the mouth of the suit allowing her speak.

The woman named Valara could barely make sentences her teeth chattering with almost every word "M-my lord i-is it time?" She began convulsing in agony or pleasure Asriel could not be sure perhaps both Ivan then whispered in her ear just enough that Asriel could hear "It is time my child shine well." Valara than began laughing her body bent in strange shapes snapping twisting she moaned and screamed for what seemed like ages.

Then there was a burst of bright purple light that almost blinded Asriel then when he opened them he looked at Valara she was no longer her her knees she was standing and her suit was gone. She was now wearing a long leather latex like corset. Asriel looked at her face she seemed beautiful she had short blond hair and a fair face, then suddenly she reared her head back laughing her voice mixing and distorting her hair grew into a long pink mane and as she bought her face forward smiling with full teeth that were now fangs. Her eyes changed into pure black like the abyss and her tongue lashed out sparks flew like she was in a barrier of some sort.

Ivan then turned to Asriel he said "This is a lesser shard a daemonette they are also known as the Children of Slaanesh, The Debauched Ones, Bringers of Joyous Degradation or as the Decadent Seekers." Asriel copied down each word he then looked up he asked Ivan "What of the greater shards? What of them?" Ivan shook his head "To call of them is court danger and death to look upon them all will vanishes, all need ends unless your mind is like steel you will simply abase yourself before them to serve their every need. Their aura would even make you want to be devoured by them to be one with them. I don't recommend courting with any of the greater shards."

Ivan continued speaking "Still I think that is enough walk with me." Asriel followed what was strange though is that Isira did not say a word during the event she kept quiet. Perhaps the whole process interests her? No matter how many times she has possibly seen it? Still for a few hours Ivan went through the process at length Asriel copying down his every word he also showed him various Manuscripts. Books from his old legion and the dark tongue. Asriel also picked up a few colchsian words for study.

Then they returned to the grand cathedral after those last few hours Asriel felt slightly more enlightened than before. Ivan looked up at the grand statue of slaanesh and then back to Asriel he said "Now do you understand? Has you brain opened ever slightly to the majesty of chaos Asriel?" Asriel nodded slightly "I do it made me realize how much we don't actually know, honestly it starts to feel like that we are children scrambling in the dark not knowing yet what is truly out there." Ivan nodded slightly "Good remember what I taught here." Ivan then breathed a heavy sigh "Still we must part ways for now I have tasks to attend to. Lord Adelram's calls have put me behind slightly." Ivan then turned and walked away.

Isira was still then silent watching him Asriel then turned around to leave Isira spoke "Wait Asriel." Asriel stopped and turned around Isira then walked forward she handed Asriel a small object. Asriel turned the object in his hand he then realized it was a knife an intricate one it's sheath was bound in leather with intricate golden runes etched in a straight line done the middle. The handle the pommel had a small female daemon head Asriel drew the knife it was slightly curved he looked the blade over a bit it seemed it was sharpened to a razor edge. Even touching the blade slightly Asriel guessed you would bleed instantly. He sheathed the knife.

Isira then said "Ivan told me to give that to you as a parting gift." Asriel gave a slight smile "Give him my thanks." As Asriel said this Isira was still not smiling she leaned foward to whisper in his ear "I will pray for you, in this moment I pity you but I also weep since you shall be truly blessed." She leaned back and walked away without another word leaving Asriel in a state of confusion.

Asriel then attached the blade on his belt and left the house of daemons. He felt he gained more understanding but now he found that he was also more confused he walked to his room slowly going over his notes in length. He then wondered what else does Ivan know? Asriel eventually reached his room. As he entered he made sure to lock the door he remembered Amethyst words just as a precaution. Asriel swapped to his bed clothing and laid on his bed thinking running over the past few hours. Asriel then realized in that moment the longer he was on this ship the less he thought of "home". It was strange he felt far more at home here on this ship than back in his apartment on Athor. He did wonder what the people on his planet were doing now. Did the imperium even care about the people who were taken? Considering all he learned and his experience Asriel guessed the imperium did not bat an eye since almost everyone can replaced.

Asriel then turned in his bed trying to get to sleep. He wondered still if Adelram was going to kill him, as he was thinking that thought his eyes slowly closed.

Asriel was lying on his bed turning the knife he received his mind swarmed with questions why did he receive this? He never fought or even killed someone before but considering the people who live on the ship it would be wise to have some form of protection. Suddenly he heard a knock on the door it was rather loud to be honest it was more of a bang instead of a knock.

Asriel held the knife close and approached the door slowly as Amethyst said some may look to kill him. He slowly opened the door and then a man barged in someone he recognized It was Charlie. Asriel heart skipped a beat then he relaxed he placed the knife back in it's sheath.

Charlie was looking around his room smiling and then he turned to Asriel he said "Nice room you got here Asriel! It’s a lot better than mine!" Asriel knew that he ran afoul of Charlie in the past yet he could not help but be happy to see him he responded with a tinge of happiness in his voice. "It's good to see you Charlie what are you doing here?"

Charlie shrugged "Well to check on you of course and to thank you." Asriel became confused "Thank me for what?" Charlie rubbed his nose chuckling "Well after you caused Anthony to cave in his skull I got a promotion I lead his unit now." Asriel was not sure to feel happy about such a fact or feel upset he gestured for Charlie to sit down near his desk while he sat at the end of his bed. Charlie took the offer with gleam and sat down right away still smiling.

Asriel then thought to himself Charlie must be here for some other reason Asriel put the question to him "So charlie why are you here? I am sure you are not just here to thank me for the promotion." Charlie still had that wide grin and said "Well yeah I want you to join my unit. That hocus pocus you did on Anthony would be useful in a real fight."

Asriel was confused he thought that the houses fought together in their own units on the battlefield well that is what made sense to him. Charlie clearly saw Asriel's confusion and moved to answer without Asriel even saying anything. "I know what you are thinking but most units are made from a mix of houses. Some are friends, some owe flavors and many try to find specialists in certain fields. Of course many from the house sin rarely join in battle but some do. Also there are some units that are made from one house we normally take orders from any marines nearby or some units are also assigned under certain Space marines. Oh and just to let you know Albert and Larry are a part of my unit"

Asriel found that information interesting perhaps if he took Charlie's offer there might be some protection in some form as well plus there are people he knows within it. Still there was a problem and he mentioned it "Charlie I don't know the first thing about combat and war. Also I don't know any witchcraft." Charlie began scratching his chin "Really now? I heard that you went to the house of daemons and the fact you remained there for a few hours. I heard stories of the magic they can put out and the things they teach to their acolytes. Also your lack of combat skill can be worked on if you join."

Asriel started to feel uncomfortable at the thought of magic he responded "Well yes Ivan taught me a few things yesterday some rituals and such bu-.." Charlie then clapped his hands interrupting he leaned forward "Asriel, you got taught by the head of the house of daemons whatever he taught you could prove useful and of course I would like more people I can trust in my unit. Having people you trust is a very important thing in combat and war." Asriel did think on that he also needed people he could trust then suddenly his datapad beeped.

He looked at it and he saw a message from Lord Adelram he wanted to see him a mix of fear and excitement gripped him. He then looked up at Charlie "Sorry Charlie can I give you my decision later? Lord Adelram needs me." Charlie simply sighed "Well Asriel, you can give me your decision later." Charlie then got up stretched and left the room.

Asriel then got read he grabbed his journal and checked his knifed strapped to his waist and left his room. He walked down the corridors and eventually reached Adelram's chambers he knocked and as always the light on the right chimed green. He stepped in and he saw Adelram as always sitting at his large desk.

Asriel then wondered since he met Adelram he never took off his helmet not once he has seen his face. Adelram then looked up from his notes and gestured for Asriel to sit. Asriel sat in front of Adelram there was a silence for some time Asriel fidgeted in his chair until Adelram spoke. "What are you?" Asriel was shocked by the question and was not exactly sure how to answer he voice came out meekly "My lord I am a simple young man that likes to write and sketch nothing else." Adelram sat back to Asriel it looked like he was contemplating an answer.

Adelram said "Really now? After all the reports, questioning Agoston, Ivan and Jedrick at length you are not exactly "normal". Agoston tells me how you took off your gas mask and breathed in concentrated mist that is produced in the house of daemons yet your cognitive functions remain intact. You are also not a mewling degenerate either." Asriel squirmed in his chair slightly a part of him started to become annoyed. He was ripped from his past life being told things that he could never believe and the fact some things he knew were a lie. He blurted out not thinking "My lord, What is exactly "normal" about this place!? I have been taken from my planet enslaved and suddenly I am deemed important and released, people have interest in me and I have no idea why. I am just trying to get by and do what I am good at nothing else." Asriel then realized he raised his voice he could not tell what expression Adelram had under his helmet but he feared what he might do next.

Adelram chuckled softly "Most people would fear to raise their voice at me, I have killed and ended people for less I also wonder why I haven't killed you yet. At your recommendation to check Ivan I found my procedure has changed each nerve end adjusted in perfect fashion to cause euphoric sensation instead of pain. It was like the hand of my Teacher did it." Adelram leaned forward again "Each time you prove me wrong or make me doubt my action. Not for a sense of proving how smart you are or to win my favour you do it because your innate curiosity your need to experience and understand new things drives you. I personally wish all my servants were like that."

Asriel's heart then started to relax a little he thought at the back of his mind that he would not kill him but then more questions formed in his mind he asked again without thinking. "My lord why do you do all of this? Amethyst said you wish to prepare for the return of your primarch but I get the feeling there is more to it than that. That can't be all there is to it, I can also tell you are very "different" compared to rest of the Astartes on the ship." As Asriel said this he saw Adelram's fist clench on the table then relaxed the fear of being killed again returned.
Adelram then spoke softly "There you are, doing it again. You will come with me." Adelram then sat up the servo's in his power armor winding with the motion and he walked to the door. Asriel sat up and followed, he walked with Adelram in complete silence as they walked he found less and less people within the corridors of the ship until eventually he stopped seeing anyone. They then came to a large set of stairs they walked up it took several minutes to the point that Asriel's legs started to become tired but he kept up he wondered if Adelram was going to show him something.
They eventually reached a large reinforced double door with a panel on the left hand side with several numbered digits on them. Adelram then typed in a code quickly Asriel's eyes had a hard time following it he could get at least two numbers 22. The doors then slid open slowly and Adelram stepped forward Asriel followed.

When Asriel walked in the area felt a lot more "warm" the cosy kind instead of the hard cold that is felt around the ship at times. They walked for a moment and they came to another set of double doors there was a vox speaker on the right hand side similar to the one from the house of warriors. Adelram pressed the button underneath he spoke into it "Lily it's me open up." A young's woman's voice then came through "Code words?" Adelram nodded he spoke "The phoenix rises from the ashes but as it does so it laughs and leaves everyone behind." The doors suddenly clicked and they slid open.

Adelram stepped forward, Asriel then wondered if Adelram was protecting something he dismissed that thought and kept walking. As they walked they saw a woman waiting she had black shaggy hair, dark skin to Asriel she was also quite easy on the eyes she also wore a long white gown. She smiled as Adelram approached she said "My lord, it's good to see you! I am sure Grandfather would be happy to see you and Lady Elizabeth." She then spotted the person following from behind the smile did not leave her face "So who is the visitor that you bought with you my lord? You must like him dearly if he is here."

Adelram coughed to interrupt her Asriel got the feeling she could talk for an age if allowed to Adelram then said "In a sense where is the Captain and Lady Elizabeth?" Lily nodded "They are in their rooms Elizabeth does not wish to be disturbed at the moment. Grandfather is resting right now." Asriel then started to wonder who was Elizabeth from the sound of it she sounds important. Adelram saw Asriel had a question on his mind he moved to answer "She is the Navigator of the ship, she guides the ship through the warp through her mutation. The eye on her forehead. I will warn you now at all costs do not look at it if she is not wearing her headband."

Asriel nodded he jotted down some notes and the warning in his Journal he then said "My lord, why are we here?" Adelram looked forward "To show you something." Lily moved to speak "Oh you are going to show him that? Oh dear you must truly like him then." Adelram then made like a grunt, Asriel could not tell if it was in frustration.

They kept walking down the corridor there were two rooms on the left and right Asriel looked at them and then Lily stopped. She made a bow and said "Well I have to check on Grandpa, make sure that he took all his medicine." As she mentioned the medience Asriel could not help but notice she smiled and looked at Adelram. Lily then opened the door on the right gently and walked in.

Adelram then turned to Asriel "We are almost at our destination." They continued walking down the corridor and came to a double door. Adelram pushed the doors open they were not automatic to Asriel's surprise. Adelram walked in but Asriel could not help notice as he opened the doors there was a somewhat sweet aroma coming through.

Asriel could not let himself get distracted by the smell he wanted to know the source. He followed after Adelram as he walked in. He was in a large room it was dark. The aroma became insanely strong but it was not overpowering. Asriel then saw Adelram he could still somewhat see his large frame in the dark it looked like he pushed a button on the wall.

Then the lights flicked on and what Asriel saw the room was cylinder with the pathway ending in the middle in a circle but around it at the edges of the room were hosts of different flowers, tons the sight was breathtaking to be honest Asriel never saw anything like it he saw pictures of flowers in some books but never this. The books did not do justice to what he saw.

Adelram could clearly see Asriel entrapped with the view and then he pressed another button and then Asriel heard something moving on the roof and he looked up. The roof came open and then he saw what seems to be reinforced glass made for ships as the twin doors on the circle roof came open he saw a host of stars. Hundreds, far clearer and brighter than on the pict screen that was shown on the bridge.

Adelram then walked forward and began sitting down on the floor the servo's of his power armour winding at the motion he gestured for Asriel to sit next to him. Asriel rushed over and sat down his eyes darting to the various flowers he was about to speak until Adelram interrupted him. "Yes I tended to all of these myself personally over the years. My old captain the "starlight king" could not shut up about it. I come here to think to plan. This space is mine and I let only select people be here which now includes you." Asriel then raised his eyebrow "Starli-" Adelram interjected "Yes it's the title my old captain went by he... glittered when he killed people. A fact he constantly brought up. He is gone now."

Asriel scratched the back of his head at the fact, Asriel then felt a surge of happiness he felt honored, happy even that Adelram trusted him this much to share this space he could tell this place was important to him. He knew it's a terrible thing to be enslaved people would call him heathen and daemon worshiper but in all honesty it was with them he finally saw the stars. He moved to open his book and Adelram gestured he said "You can't write of this place in your journal. Commit it to your mind and memory." He then told Asriel the code and phrase he repeated it several times the phrase was simple and the code was 5 digits 22305.
Asriel then moved to speak "Who else knows of this place?" Adelram put his hand to the chin of his helmet "Save the people who live up here Lily, Captain and Elizabeth? Only Amethyst and Jedrick." Asriel was not exactly surprised Amethyst was allowed here but Jedrick? He did not seem like the type to appreciate flowers or the view.

Adelram then laughed "I know what you are thinking and it's actually the opposite when I first brought him here he moved to every single flower to smell each he even had me remove his power armor so he would not harm any." Asriel's brows furrowed another question perplexed him "My lord, you call Jedrick mad and such yet you trust him greatly?" Adelram gave a heavy sigh "I shall explain, yes Jedrick worships an entity of excess yet he is also frank with me. Ivan is a snake, Ivan wishes me to embrace the religion thinking I am a fool and heathen and has not grasped the truth of the galaxy. In Jedrick's case he simply believes that if I did in the end it would better for me nothing more he also does not push the point either. Also shockingly he is quite intellectual and has a love of philosophy. Plus removing the heads of people who seek to betray me also helps."

Asriel thought of Jedrick he could see Adelram's point he has a way with words that you just want to listen. Being with Ivan at times he feels like he just wants to run away. As Asriel thought of them another question spawned in his brain. Asriel said "My lord I recall from Ivan's story that you have a gift of some sort? What did he mean about that?"

Adelram was silent unmoving for a moment he leaned back supporting himself with both hands "You are that perceptive... well Asriel I bare the curse of the witch." Asriel eyes bulged at the proclamation Adelram continued speaking "It's a curse I spit on and hate if you have seen what people twist into following that path hence why I focus on the path of the body. My master and captain largely shielded me back then.... Also if I did not train as a apothecary this warband would have fallen to pieces already. Yet....." Adelram trailed off.

Asriel did not judge him back home the priests told him to Abhor to hate the witch but he could not bring himself to hate Adelram he was different and out of the space marines he met he seems the most "stable" or "normal". Adelram was silent for a moment he then said "Enough of that I will tell you more later, still the next raid will commence soon I can tell my brothers are agitated hence I picked the perfect target. We are in a neighbouring system from your home planet. Ivan's rituals to hide the ship will dissipate soon and it will be time to move."

Asriel did not know what to think of that more people being taken from their homes more people being enslaved. There was nothing he could do this is his life now but he also enjoyed this life much more than his old one now. He simply gave a nod. Asriel then heard someone waltzing into the room. It was a woman she wore a flowing red dress, she had long red hair and her face was fair she wore a bandage around her forehead.

Adelram stood up and the the woman stood right in front of him unbowed she spoke each of her words seem chosen carefully "Adelram? When are we moving again? I tire of being here sitting around doing nothing." Adelram sighed "Soon Elizabeth I am making preparations for another raid." The woman smiled "Good." The woman Asriel knew to be Elizabeth looked at him her face screwed into disgust her words were like barbs "Adelram, this ruffian who is he? Why is he here?" Adelram spoke flatly "Enough, Elizabeth prepare yourself we are going to be moving soon." Elizabeth looked to protest but stopped and walked away.

Asriel was surprised how she can be so brash to Adelram he assumed she was the navigator considering the bandage and of course considering she spoke to Adelram is such a casual manner she must be important. Adelram spoke again "You should leave now, I must prepare the captain get some rest it will be a few days until we reach our destination."

Asriel began walking out he knew the way back it was not too hard but he wondered what did he exactly do for Adelram to trust him so much. In the end perhaps he thought it would be better to stop thinking about it and accept it. Still he now knows the answer he will give to Charlie.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/13 12:01:46


Post by: lliu


Nice. I look forward to what happens. Interesting story, as I have not read anything on the common people's of the imperium at all.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/13 13:29:39


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice. I look forward to what happens. Interesting story, as I have not read anything on the common people's of the imperium at all.


Yeah, that's what I tried to grasp also the fact that a friend who knows nothing of 40k wants to read my story also. Funny enough they were the one's who largely got me to do this. As I said it was meant to be something small but turned into something large. The story is going to be three parts working on the second right now just about finished the first chapter.

Also the whole number and names thing is something the planet of Athor(I made it up) does. Perhaps we might go back there at some point.

I got the idea for this story from the chaos space marine codex from the cultist page. Just this one line "After all, even a man who has nothing can still barter away his soul." This was significant to me because this is the reason why the imperium acts the way it does. No matter what life you lead chaos still wants you. They want you to give away your soul and most likely you will do it with a smile on your face.

By large the common factory worker knows next to nothing. They have never seen a marine before all they know is what the imperium wishes for them to know which is largely next to nothing. If Asriel(or 1024) went about blabbing his Journal to everyone back home he would of got a visit by the Arbites.

Perhaps likely killed for his Journal(Since he wrote down most of his feelings and frustrations within it) since most authorities would read it as containing possible heretical thoughts or he might get turned into a servitor.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/13 14:05:23


Post by: shinros


Chapter 8

Asriel was in his room practising the knife movements Charlie taught him he had a knife on hand and spare time. So he took to repeating each stroke each slash. Charlie even told him points he should aim for on the body. His arms strained with each swipe he gained several bruises from the various mock battles he did with Charlie's unit Albert was helpful in teaching him how to fire a gun at the range.

Jedrick let him part with an automatic pistol and gave him a flak chest guard and combat trousers for protection. He kept the pistol at his hip he seemed quite Joyful at him joining Charlie or perhaps he is more excited for the raid than anything else. What was odd he did not see Larry not since the time he was collecting blood, Charlie assured that he will be there for gear up.

Amethyst was not exactly happy with him joining Charlie she said that the House of sin are exempt from battle. The conversation came up because he wanted to learn more about battlefield medicine and first aid from her. Amethyst was more than happy to teach but she was worried, she said that joining Charlie's unit is going to lower his life expectancy than increase it. Yet ever since he took to learning combat there was some kind of anticipation a sense of excitement.

Then the alarm chimed the lights switched to red which Asriel noted it meant that the ship is approaching battle. Asriel put on his combat gear. Asriel swung his journal around his shoulder, he also attached a utility belt around his waist containing various pain killers and medical tools. Asriel then hooked his com bead to his ear. Charlie handed it out to each member of the unit. He said it took him quite a lot of favors to secure them. He believed that it would aid in their survival.

Asriel then left his room after gearing he went to meet charlie at the house of warriors, Charlie told him that his unit has been chosen to have special status to be there at Lord Adelram's briefing. Asriel eventually reached the house of warriors and he found that all of Charlie's unit was together waiting for him Albert and Larry was there also. Asriel saw Charlie's unit was a mix of men and women, some Asriel recognised from the time Anthony was assaulting him. They tended to avoid his gaze perhaps thinking they might be cursed if they bought his ire. Asriel was not sure whether to feel happy at the prospect and wondered if it might affect their Cohesion. Asriel then counted how many were in their unit there were 18 in total including him, Albert, Charlie and Larry.

Asriel then saw Larry he noticed his arms were covered in scripture and he wore combat gear with a mix of latex leather. His eyes were pink also Larry smiled at Asriel he then said "Asriel! I am glad that you took Charlie's offer can't you feel it? The thundering in the blood we are about to spill the blood of the minions of the false emperor! Offer their souls up to the dark prince!" Asriel was not sure whether to be freighted by Larry's new found zealotry and eagerness for battle. Asriel gave a weak smile and said "Well I have been itching to go but I am rather nervous." Larry wrapped his arm around Asriel's shoulder he was still smiling "You should not be nervous Asriel, even if we die we will become part of something greater."
Asriel was about to respond then the ship vox began blurting for special units and Astartes to report to the docking area of the ship. Everyone began rushing around preparing or leaving. Charlie then cocked his autogun and looked to his unit he gave an order "It's time to get moving lads and ladies to the docking bay area!"

They all readied their guns and moved in a group Asriel followed and as he was about to leave Charlie grabbed him by the shoulder he spoke "Asriel when we hit the ground stick close to me and Albert okay?" When Asriel looked at his face he could see a sense of concern which surprised him. Perhaps the training Jedrick put the soldiers through in the house of warriors changed Charlie? Asriel nodded "Yes I will make sure to do so, I have also been studying first aid along with my combat training." Charlie smiled "Ha! We now also have a medic this is good. Now let's get moving before they leave us behind."

They walked for a moment going down a level Asriel has not been to the lower levels of the ship since he was a lower level slave. Yet they took a slightly different route avoiding the slave quarters and made their way to the docking area. There were several Thunderhawks and there were a large amount of people gathered in groups. Asriel guessed these were other units he also saw Space marines in various squads checking their weapons. Asriel could count at least 35 in total.

Asriel also saw Jedrick ordering people around and Ivan leading groups of humans and marines in prayer. Then finally he saw Adelram at a giant screen. There was noise for a moment until Adelram shouted for silence his helmet aiding him in raising his voice. The room fell into silence and Adelram began speaking. "We are gathered to review the information for this raid. We are currently in the Barbos system and will be assaulting a Cardinal world." Adelram pressed a button on the screen "Currently the planet is being assaulted by Aeldari, the Eldar of the craftworlds." As Adelram mentioned this Asriel heard people hissing in contempt or booing Asriel never saw a Xeno's before other than being told they are untrustworthy and to be hated but considering people's reaction in the docking area they must hold the same hatred people of his home planet do. Adelram quieted down the jeers and he continued speaking "We will be taking advantage of this to capture people, and possibly if some of you are lucky killing Eldar and taking their valuables." Adelram pressed a button on the screen.

He gestured at the city map being displayed on the screen he marked out three churches he said "We have identified these three churches as hubs for the local armies forces they are using it also as a makeshift communication centre since it's highly likely that the eldar targeted their normal channels first. Our host will divide into three groups and attack these locations." Adelram then looked at Sebastian "You will take your warriors and some of your human soldiers to attack the church on the far left of the city. Me Ivan, and Jedrick will take the center along with a mixed force, the center is the most heavily defended. The rest of the human forces will take the church on the far right. That is all, your groups will be assigned to Thunderhawks and you will be taken down to the planet."
After the order was given the leaders of each unit approached Adelram to be told which Thunderhawk they will be taking. Of course Charlie approached Adelram and Asriel could see he was nodding he then walked back to the group. Charlie then announced that they will be on the third Thunderhawk heading down. At this proclamation Asriel started to become nervous again his breathing became heavy he started to rub his hands until Albert suddenly slapped his hands over his. It stang and Asriel looked up Albert gave him a nod "Is that better? I tend to do this before battle or fights calms the nerves." Asriel gave a weak nod his hands hurt but he felt slightly calmer.

He saw several soldiers getting on Thunderhawks, the second one was preparing to leave. Then Charlie ordered everyone on the third several other units were on there. It was quite a squeeze but not to the point where Asriel felt like he was going to get crushed. The bay doors on the Thunderhawk closed and it lifted off the movement was gentle then suddenly it felt rough.

The ride went on for several minutes until there was a thud and the bay doors opened Asriel stepped out he looked around. It seemed like an Urban city instead of a hive city but each of the buildings looked finely crafted with gothic statues and angel like figures everywhere. Asriel thought it would of looked beautiful if it was not for the battle dust. As Adelram said this planet was also being attacked by Eldar.

Charlie then hopped out of the Thunderhawk he ordered everyone to move on the objective. "It's time to get moving! Stick close and watch everyone's back!" They began marching into the streets Asriel also saw some units split off in different directions he shook his head keep focused on his unit and what's in front of him not on what others are doing. That was the first thing Charlie taught him.

They marched through the city for several minutes they did not make any contact yet but Asriel could see the church in the distance he then began to hear bullet fire. Charlie ordered everyone to form up and they kept marching. They came upon the church and Asriel saw several units in cover firing at imperial planetary defence forces some poked out and fired their guns along red laser catching someone leaving a burnt hole in their chest. He also saw a woman in power armor firing guns similar to the space marines they were called bolters he recalled. The impacts of their bullets exploding on impact blowing holes in chests and blowing off limbs.

Charlie called for everyone to take cover in the courtyard there were several smashed debris in the courtyard and fallen over statues. Asriel rushed into cover keeping his head down. He knelt behind the statue and Charlie rushed next to him. So did Albert, Charlie nodded he said "That woman in power armor is a sister of battle. Lord Jedrick told me about them." Charlie touched a com-bead to his ear.

Charlie spoke into the bead "On my order everyone pop out of cover and fire on the power armoured female." Asriel heard his order come through his ear there was a bit of static but he could make it out of course he did not require it right now since he was right next to Charlie. They waited for a few moments Charlie then poked his head up slightly then he yelled "Now open fire!" Asriel leaped up he saw the sister of battle was in the middle of reloading he fired his pistol at her the rest of his unit did the same she was riddled with bullets. Some bullets bounced off her armour but some pierced the eye lenses of her helmet and some hit the gaps of her armour she then crumpled on the floor.
Charlie then yelled for everyone to get down all did so. Asriel was breathing heavily that was his first kill the first time he killed someone he was breathing heavily. It felt strangely liberating and intoxicating at the same time. Yet his stomach also turned slightly like he was going to be sick he held it back. He did not want to void his bowls in the middle of a firefight.

He then heard an order "Fall back!" Asriel poked his head out of the cover and saw the PDF were trying to move back into the church. Other units surrounding the church took this opportunity to charge knives and other brutal instruments raised. Charlie cursed "Bloody house of daemons the lot of them have no sense of strategy. Still we can use this to our advantage." Charlie touched his bead again "Right when some of our men hit close combat use that chance to fill the enemy with bullets." A woman's voice then came through the bead "What of friendly fire?" Asriel then heard Larry's voice through the bead "Don't worry they do not mind since in death they will go to a better place." Charlie laughed he then ordered "See our fanatic friend gave the go ahead so fire!" Asriel leapt up again he tried to avoid hitting anyone but he saw numerous house of daemon soldiers charging into close combat some were cut down by las-blasts but there were too many for the PDF to handle.

Asriel did admit using this method they could kill as many imperial PDF as possible it seemed the stream of daemon soldiers were endless and the PDF were overwhelmed. The courtyard then fell silent. Asriel looked around, the daemon soldiers were howling, some were on the ground praying and others were dragging away some of the corpses. They largely were ignoring the objective and pursuing whatever base desires that dawned on them.

Charlie then called for everyone to move out of cover they then went to inspect the bodies that the house of daemon soldiers left behind. Asriel saw several soldiers from his unit were looting the PDF taking their lasguns. Asriel did the same he made sure to take some energy cell packs as well. He slung it over his shoulder.

Charlie then ordered people to the door on the right and left and he gave a countdown 1, 2, 3 and then Albert and Charlie kicked the doors and they moved in. Asriel then followed along with the rest of the unit. They raised their guns and several scribes, clergymen and women raised their hands. Some people were working the communication machines. There was a single PDF soldier standing with his lasgun raised his face stern.

Charlie gave a chuckle he shouted at the PDF soldier "How about you put the gun away? We have you outnumbered." The imperial soldier shouted spittle flying from his mouth "Never Heretics! I will never surrender to you! You come to bring darkness the emperor protects!" At that exclamation it drew Larry's ire "Fool! He can't protect you here there is only one true power and we will kill you and they will feed on your soul!" Charlie waved for Larry to be quiet in annoyance.
Asriel stood there sweating with his lasgun drawn. Charlie then sighed and fired his gun at the PDF soldier. He did not have time to pull the trigger one las shot hit the PDF soldier in the arm he cried out in pain and dropped his gun. Charlie fired again this time in his chest leaving a small burn hole and he collapsed on the floor to the screams of the civilians.

Charlie then fired one shot in the air and shouted "Everyone keep quiet!" with that action all the civilians grew silent. He gestured for Asriel, Albert, Larry and one female soldier forward. He then said "I want you guys to watch the people." He then pointed to several soldiers "I want the rest on the windows! If anything happens I want to know!" Several soldiers in Asriel's unit nodded and they moved to the windows.

Asriel aided moving the civilians, Albert and Larry had them moved to a corner as Asriel did this memories came flooding back. Memories of Athor of being surrounded in that circle wondering what will happen to him. Yet his life became better. The people here, their lives can become better as well he wondered what kind of lives some of these people lived. Asriel looked them over he saw one woman short blonde hair and she had the look of someone who lived comfortably she also looked to be a clergy woman. She also looked fair almost beautiful. She tried to spit in Asriel's direction the spittle landed on his chest. Asriel annoyed got a cloth from his utility belt and wiped it off.

Albert raised a gun to the woman she began to speak "Do it filthy heretic, I will be reunited at the emperor's side on my death. I curse you and your name." Albert raised his gun ready to shoot Asriel raised his hand to stop him. He did not know why he responded but he did so "You can die for the emperor on your lips but even so when you die you will suffer horrific torture unending pain and torment while neverborn tear and guzzle upon your souls. Don't seek your death here." Asriel said that plainly there was twinge of sadness there.
The woman screwed her face in disgust and retorted "What do you know!? You speak lies and heresy! You who sold his soul away for what! Power! Glory! Your masters will kill you at the bat of the eyelid heathen. You simply exist to be used and discarded as you deserve!" Asriel felt anger building he made an outburst "I gave it away to be free! I never had a name a purpose! When I tried to do good your clergy your emperor reprimanded me! You call me Heretic and Heathen! But shockingly my "masters" treat me as human! I would give it away again in a heartbeat. While you spout lies and half truths thinking that your Martyrdom will ensure a place at the side of the emperor all that will happen is that you will meet the laughter of neverborn as they tear you to pieces."

Asriel was fuming this woman had no idea what he has been through. No idea how he suffered. No idea how the emperor and his own people treated him. The thought crossed his mind he should kill here right now end her here. The Albert touched him on the shoulder "You don't need to justify yourself to her Asriel leave her in her Illusion." The clergywoman turned away in disgust until a call came from the the window nearby. A soldier shouted "Charlie we got Eldar incoming!" then another soldier called near the church doors "Charlie! we have a bigger problem coming right now!"

Charlie looked to both ends thinking what he should do Charlie moved to the front of the church. Charlie asked "What's a bigger problem than Eldar?" The soldier gestured for Charlie to look out of the window charlie looked out of the window he saw nothing save the daemon soldiers messing with corpses and looked back at the soldier "I don't see anything. Save the Debauchery of the house of daemons." The soldier clearly looking worried responded "No Charlie look up."

Charlie looked out of the window again and looked up he saw what looked to be tiny meteors coming down no they were not meteors they were drop pods. Charlie kept looking one crashed down in front of the church. Crushing several house of daemon members. The drop pod was green in colour. Charlie turned back and shouted "We got space marines incoming!" Albert called over "Are they ours?" Charlie shook his head distress lining his features "No, not ours." Albert cursed.

Asriel looked around and then he saw the clergy woman smiling she said "See Heretic? The emperor's angels of death have come to kill you." Asriel began breathing heavily he has seen the marines on their ship duel they have no chance against a group of them. One could easily kill them. Charlie then looked around the church he opened a set of double doors on the right and looked around he came back and shouted. "Everyone over here get the prisoners here as well there is a an underground chamber!"

Asriel, Albert and Larry began pushing the prisoners forward and the soldiers moved after them they had to hope and pray that the space marines and Eldar will kill one another. Still when moving the prisoners Asriel could still see the clergy woman was smiling.
Adelram impaled a sister of battle with his power sword and twisted, She coughed up blood her eyes rolled back and she crumpled on the floor. He looked around and it seemed the rest of his host were cleaning up the dregs Jedrick cleaved apart several imperial PDF. Ivan was swinging his crozius his mace bashing aside PDF with each swing with prayers on his lips. Adelram sighed normally PDF are easy to kill and he expected the sisters of battle to give them some trouble but he had a nagging feeling that they are being drawn in this was too easy.

Adelram was lost in his thoughts while his human soldiers poured into the church. Then he heard a sound he looked around then a shimmer. He instinctively he leaped back. The shimmering was then seen on several figures and their cloak dropped it was several Eldar of the craftworlds they wore tight green armor with various depictions of the scorpion etched on their armour. Adelram guessed they were striking scorpions. He recalled tales from his old captain of how they killed and vanished into the shadows.

Adelram then shouted "Eldar! To positions!" All the space marines flicked to attention pointing guns at the Green Eldar. They fired and their cloaks switched back on he could see by the shimmering they scattered. Adelram heard screaming then from the roads out of the darkness came charging Eldar in bone white armor. Red flowing hair was swaying in the wind while they were charging.

They released an ear pitching scream that caused several of the human soldiers on both sides to grip their hands on their heads in pain some bled from the ears. What was most curious that the Eldar were largely ignoring Adelram's brothers they were aiming for him. Several of the Eldar in bone white armour began slashing at him Adelram trying to parry each blow some knicks got in causing slight amount of his blood to be spilled. Adelram could not keep this up if he slipped for one second he would be dead.

Jedrick then shouted "On Adelram push back the xenos! Offer up their souls to the dark prince! They will be returned to the god they gave birth to!" Jedrick and Ivan along with some members of their squad moved onto Adelram's position trying tp push back the Aeldari. Each of Adelram's brothers were caught in single combat with the members of the attacking Eldar. The Eldar that appeared to lead the unit who Adelram knew to be the "Exarch" leaped forward and then from behind the Exarch leading the striking scorpions deactivated his stealth cloak both were circling him.

The Eldar in bone white armour spoke each word sounded like she was mocking Adelram "You will die here Mon-Keigh you will not be allowed to become the true lord of sin." Then voice behind the Exarch in green armour spoke his voice coming out like an echo due to his helmet "The one who will become exalted who will share his flesh with the seducer will also die with you. The prophecy will come to pass." They both charged from both sides Adelram readied his weapon. He tried to parry the Exarch in bone white armour her speak strikes were too fast she made a strike across his shoulder pad cutting through the ceramite. She stabbed deep blood began spilling down his arm.

The green Aeldari moved in from behind and made a swipe with a claw shaped into a scorpion stinger he slashed to Adelram's waist cutting through the armour instantly blood spurted from the wound. Adelram grunted in pain and dropped to one knee both Eldar jumped back circling him again. Adelram gripped the wound to his waist. Adelram clinched his teeth. He felt a small shadow was building in his twin hearts. That alien sensation to Astartes fear, not for his death.. of him. Never being able to see him. Adelram shouted "I won't die here xenos!" The Exarch in bone white armor charged again her spear held high she unleashed a scream but Adelram raised his right hand.

She froze in place unable to move Adelram could see her clearly struggling and then the Green Exarch charged at his left and then Adelram raised his left hand. They were both frozen then he clutched both hands into a fist the armour on both Aeldari began to bend inwards blood leaking from the rivits of their armour then they were crushed in a splash of gore. Adelram then stood up he injected pain killer stimulate into his system and focused on the Aeldari he raised his hands at each and made a swatting motion. The Eldar began flying through the air smashing into the walls breaking their bones into shards.

His brothers took advantage of this and swarmed on the Eldar who were caught alone. With that the battle ended. Ivan then walked up to Adelram looking clearly joyful "My lord you us-" Adelram cut him off "Silence Ivan I don't want to hear it." Jedrick then shouted for everyone to look up as Adelram looked up to the sky he saw drop pods falling from the sky the drop pods were green in colouration. Adelram cursed under his breath.

Asriel along with Larry, Albert and the other soldiers were herding the prisoners through the corridors. Charlie then showed them to a set of stairs leading down some of the prisoners tried to stop and protest but Albert gun bucking some or threatening to shoot got them moving. They came to double wooden doors charlie pushed the doors open and beckoned the unit through.

The room was a large empty hall with stacks of empty wooden boxes and barrels scattered in the room. Charlie then gestured to the soldiers to help him barricade the doors. They moved the crates and barrels to the doors and made makeshift cover in front of it. The prisoners were pushed to the back of the room. The sound of fighting could be heard above, Charlie was pacing in the room clearly stressed.

he kicked a crate and cursed "We have to hold position and hope they kill each other" said Charlie. Asriel looked at the clergy woman he was arguing with earlier she was looking smug. It angered him but he could understand charlie's position they could possibly take on the Eldar depending on who they are. Loyalist Astartes? They have no hope both together? It's suicide.

Charlie kept pacing Asriel could tell the nerves were getting to the soldiers until Asriel spoke up. "Charlie I have an idea." Charlie looked up some hope returning to his eyes "Do you? Something that can get us out of this mess?" Asriel bit his lip slightly "It may not exactly be a good idea." Charlie nodded "I am willing to take any ideas at this moment."
Asriel breathed a sigh and walked up to charlie "I could summon the neverborn. Ivan taught me things." Charlie went white as a sheet "No that idea is terrible. We can't do that." Larry then interjected "Even if we could summon them I doubt lesser shards would be able to take on the forces up stairs. Also we require their true name, according to the scriptures." Asriel then flicked open his journal "I do have a true name of a neverborn likely a greater shard." Larry's eyes opened wide "How did you get such a thing? We might have a chance!" Charlie then shouted "No, no summoning it's more likely they will kill all of us first and then the lot upstairs."

Albert then turned to speak "We are dead either way Charlie. I don't like the thought of summoning those things but it's better than waiting for our deaths." Charlie breathed a sigh "You know what you are doing Asriel?" Asriel nodded "I do also we have all the materials right here." Charlie raised his eyebrow "We do?" Asriel smiled "Yes." He then pointed to the prisoners. He looked at charlie "I only need 6."

Charlie scratched his chin for a moment thinking "Fine." Charlie called over the soldiers at the doors waiting in cover to guard the people. They began taking people from the group until it came to the 6th person Asriel interjected "I would like to pick the 6th person." Charlie shrugged "Go on either way we are dead most likely." Asriel walked up to the prisoners and pointed at the Clergy woman. Her face was still full of venom it took two soldiers to move her since she was trashing and hurling insults.

Charlie then looked at Asriel "Why her?" Asriel was flicking through his journal going over the ritual he looked up at Charlie "She is the perfect focal point, the neverborn are attracted to torment, despair, agony and death. When the neverborn comes and her faith comes crashing down around her that her faith is a lie and the agony of the process.... she will be a good host."

Charlie simply shook his head "Apostle Ivan sure taught you some crazy stuff Asriel." Asriel face was completely neutral he was actually curious about the effects of the ritual. He realized as time went on things that should bother him things that would be morally repugnant he could not bring himself to care. She was an enemy a zealot to a false idea nothing more nothing less.

Asriel said "Charlie can you also bind her hands and feet? Her thrashing about would make things difficult." Charlie shrugged and pulled out some rope from his backpack and with the aid of the soldiers he bound the woman's hands and feet. It seems the other prisoners seem content with the fact they are likely to die and were muttering prayers to emperor. Asriel could not bring himself to be sad since they are praying to a lie more than anything. A lie that cannot hear them or save them. The emperor cannot protect them if he did he would not have been taken from his home and given this life.

Charlie then looked up when his work was done "Should we gag her? She is kinda annoying actually." Asriel shook his head "No it actually helps when they scream actually. Now arrange 5 of the prisoners in a circle and with the clergy woman in the middle of it." The soldiers arranged the 5 chosen prisoners in a circle and with the woman in the middle. Charlie then raised another question "Why 6 prisoners for this little "spell" you are doing?"
Asriel then drew the knife Isira gave him he turned it over and looked at Charlie "6 is the holy or sacred number of the goddess or god of excess you can use either pronoun if you prefer. The beings of the warp place significance on certain numbers. For example The god of blood and war his holy number is 8, The god of change his number 9 and the god of Disease and pestilence his number is 7."

Asriel then walked over to the prisoners and began the incantation the clergy woman began shouting "Heathen! Heretic the emperor's angels of death will smite you! We may die but we will be avenged!" Asriel ignored her focusing on the summoning words Ivan taught him the dark tongue soon he heard nothing save his own voice.

Charlie then looked over to Larry "What is he saying?" Larry was smiling with joy "He is calling the children of the warp bringing their eye to this place. Can't you feel it?" Charlie was confused still he watched Asriel chanting and then he casually drew his knife across the first sacrifice. Suddenly Charlie began to feel cold he rubbed his arms slightly to warm them up.

Charlie was still watching Asriel chant and then he drew his knife against the second sacrifice's throat he gurgled and sagged down to the ground. Charlie then thought he saw flickers of things snapping at the bodies of the dead sacrifices. Asriel then moved to the third and the cold grew in intensity. Larry's pink eyes started to dilate he was smiling laughing even "Charlie they are coming! We are going to be blessed!"

Charlie wanted to look away it did not feel right but he could not tear his eyes away he then saw Asriel draw his knife against the 4th sacrifice and then Charlie could smell a mix of brimstone, perfume and honey. Charlie looked at the prisoners they don't seem to be faring any better with the sensations or the things they are seeing in the room. He saw them making signs of the Aquila like it ward or stop the ritual. Asriel then cut the throat of the last prisoner and then stopped in front of the clergy woman. Asriel now could see the fear in her eyes she tried to keep a brave face she shouted at me "So I am next!? You are going to cut my throat as well!?"

Asriel ignored her, he was still chanting he approached the end and it was now time to utter the name Mavu'Lyasala'Ummphalei'iss. Then suddenly the phenomena in the room stopped all was normal. Some the soldiers looked around confused, Asriel then stepped back charlie looked at Asriel "Nothing is happening?" Asriel was silent but the woman was still heaping insults at him "See heretic! The emperor protects his faithful!" She was laughing until the blood of the 5 prisoners began pooling around her.

The blood moved like a life of its own and made a puddle underneath her and then suddenly she sank. She was splashing in the blood it looked like she was drowning and Asriel in that moment saw utter terror in her eyes as she drowned within the blood. The prisoners moved up to the wall of the room screaming in horror and shouting prayers. A minute passed and then suddenly a hand came out.

It was a human hand and then another hand reached out onto the edge of the blood pool. It seemed the clergy woman was unbound she pulled herself out of the pool of blood. As she walked forward head lowered the blood evaporated from her skin and clothes leaving it pristine. She looked up her eyes were black like the void.

She spoke her voice was smooth as she spoke it was like you would do anything for her. Her voice drew you in steadily. Asriel saw some of the soldiers and prisoners quivering with each word she spoke. "So you summoned me?" Asriel tried to stand upright Ivan said show strength in front of neverborn they can smell weakness. The neverborn crossed her arms "You summon Meliva the soulflayer? Meliva the corruptor and Seducer of Mortals? Exalted in the eyes of the dark prince?" Asriel nodded "Yes great Meliva we are in a predicament." Meliva looked up and licked her lips "I can smell them upstairs" she groaned "Eldar....."

Asriel then looked around the room the soldiers and even the prisoners were looking at her hungrily. In the case of the soldiers he could see their grips loosening on their guns. Asriel had to wrap this up quickly he had no idea how they would react. Meliva then looked right into Asriel's eyes "Now my price..." Asriel cursed "What is your price Great Meliva?"
She gazed at the prisoner's, "You will leave all the prisoners here." Asriel almost breathed a sigh of relief until Meliva began walking up to him slowly she whispered into his ear. Asriel brow furrowed and clenched his fists he looked at it - her "Is there no other choice?" She shook her head making a coy smile "If you don't accept, I will take everyone in this room and your precious lord."

Asriel's mouth went dry he clenched his eyes shut and opened them "I accept." Meliva's face twisted in a horrific smile "Good.. very good." Meliva then made a small hand gesture the door and the crates and barrels blocking it exploded. She then looked at the pool of blood she murmured something and made various hand movements and then forms began coming out of the pool. Feminine like forms Asriel recognised them to be daemonettes.
Meliva then pranced out of the room with groups of daemonettes in tow, Asriel realized that Charlie and the soldiers were just standing there their mouths hanging.

Asriel thought it was likely they were drew in by the aura of the greater shard. He shook charlie and he flicked to attention "Asriel what happened? There was a pretty woman here then..." Asriel shouted "No time Charlie we got to get everyone to move!" That was enough to get Charlie attention "What about the prisoners?" Asriel shook his head "We leave them that was the price Meliva demanded." Charlie shrugged "better them than us." Charlie then rallied the soldiers from their stupor and they formed up. Asriel moved to speak to Charlie "Oh and charlie when we get up there. Don't look back just keep running to the door. Ignore everything around you." Charlie seemed confused but simply nodded.

Meliva walked up the stairs and through the corridor the thought of tasting the Eldar, everything is moving to the dark princes designs. She quivered with anticipation and as she walked into the main hall she saw Space marines and the Eldar of the craftworlds firing at each other. The Space marines in green armour shooting with melta and flamer weapons and the Aeldari firing with shuriken cannons.

Meliva's gaze was drawn to the brightest of both grounds the leader of the space marines wore lizard like skin pieces on his shoulder pad and waist. He also bore a torch on his backpack and the leader of the Aeldari warhost was a psyker wearing long flowing black robes and the armour of a farseer. He was blasting the space marines with eldritch bolts. She commanded the daemonettes to wait in the shadows.

She casually walked forward in the middle of the fire fight and both sides stopped frozen wondering who is the person stepping forth. Meliva smiled as a pink mist surrounded and consumed her.

Asriel was running with his unit charlie at the front. They made their way upstairs and then charlie shouted "When we get to the main hall don't look back just run for the entrance! Keep your eyes to the door!". All the soldiers nodded they came to the corridor and they saw the door leading to the main hall and all they heard were screams and shouts and a terrible laughter.

As they reached the main hall there were dead everywhere some mutilated. Some of the soldiers took the idea to look at the back of the hall and they just stood there entranced by whatever they are seeing. Asriel stopped and he saw his unit run out this would be the last time he will see them. This is the last time he will see Charlie, Larry, Albert, Adelram and Amethyst.

Asriel looked back with sadness in his eyes he saw Meliva in all her "glory" her height almost reached the roof of the hall, it's - her skin was porcelain white with a purple hue her skin also looked to be oil smooth. A feminine face boarding on androgynous. A crown of horns that took an oiled sheen and a snake like tongue whipping around the air like she was tasting something. She had four limbs three ending in black talons and one holding a sword one limb wore a spiked latex glove. She wore a loincloth that only covered the front of her body it bore the rune of the dark prince upon it.

Asriel ran behind a stone pillar to make sure he did not get hit by stray bullets but what he saw the green space marines and the Eldar were fighting together against Meliva and they were losing. Meliva was also supported by a host of daemonettes when he looked he saw Meliva just slashing away swatting both sides like flies.

Asriel saw some Eldar and space marines on their knees crying in ecstasy awaiting their deaths. Ivan said whenever encountering a greater shard of slaanesh "Your mind must be like steel, they can rob you of all reason and will. To the point that you may even wish to be devoured by them." She speared the kneeling space marines with her sword laughing and she plucked the kneeling Eldar like treats and devoured them in one gulp. Asriel noticed as she did this she quivered what seemed to be in pleasure.

The last dregs of the Eldar and space marine forces were cut down and the leaders of both forces were back to back. The space marine in lizard skins was hacking away at the daemonettes with his power sword pink and purple ichor splattering across the benches, walls and his power armour. The eldar leader was blasting the neverborn with lightning.

Meliva was waiting for the right moment she snatched the Aeldari leader in her claws he tried to blast lightning at Meliva's face. Meliva gave a hiss but it seemed it did not bother her in the slightest. She then opened her mouth and dropped him in swallowing the Aeldari whole.
The space marine leader was bloodied and before he died he gave a final shout "For the emperor! For Vulkan!" The daemonettes fell upon him he punched one in the face sending it crashing unto the benches. He sliced another in half and chopped off the hand of another. Yet it was not enough several daemonettes fell upon him tearing him to pieces. Asriel still saw some of his unit who turned back to look upon Meliva they were still there on knee's in tears. Some uttering how beautiful Meliva was or how they desired her.

Meliva trotted forward with her hooves and she looked at Asriel directly he wondered why he was not on his knees like the rest. Yes his heart swam with desire when looking upon Meliva yet he felt no desire to abase himself before her like his fellow soldiers and the enemy forces. It was like Meliva read his mind and she answered "You already belong to us." Her tongue whipped out "You already tasted the flesh of the neverborn."

Asriel then saw his fellow soldiers rushing towards Meliva he saw pure happiness and rapture in their eyes. Asriel moved to stop them "Stop! Leave! Run away!" Meliva pouted "Why stop them from their desires? They want to be with me." Asriel tried to call out "No don't do it!" but they shoved him roughly aside and they knelt in front of Meliva mouths agape out of the 18, 4 looked and sat in front of her.

Meliva smiled "You want to be with me that much? I am flattered..." She plucked one of the soldiers up Asriel was powerless all he could was watch and she devoured the soldier the same way she devoured the Eldar. Asriel was then shocked by the response instead of running away in horror they began fighting each other over who is next. One soldier screamed "Me! My mistress! Me next! I beg you!" Another shouted "I want to be next! I want to be with you!"

She then plucked the second soldier up he shouted "I am chosen! Thank you!" and then she dropped the soldier in her mouth and swallowed him in one go. She looked at the next soldier for a minute smiling and the soldier was quivering on the floor crying "Please don't make me wait! Please!" Meliva then waited another minute the soldier began crying begging her to devour him.

She then gently picked him up and devoured him. The last soldier was on his knees what he said shocked Asriel "Great one? I am last? You must hate me the most then?" Meliva's tongue whipped out and she smiled "No I saved something special for you." Asriel saw Meliva pluck up the soldier and then she dropped him into her mouth. Asriel was looking at her face and she did not swallow him in one go like the rest.

He could see a bulge on the side of her mouth she moving it around back and forth gently. Asriel eyes went wide she is treating him like a sweet. The kind one savours in their mouth and then swallow when one is done. Asriel was terrified wondering what was going to happen to him. He cast his gaze down his mind shifting he saw flashes of his memories of his home. Of his mother and father.

He then looked up and saw her finally sallow. She quivered "His agony, his torment and pleasure tasted wonderful." Asriel looked at her he was scared his eyes gave away the terror he was feeling, She gave a soft smile while gently rubbing her belly "Don't make that face, I gave them the ultimate gift, the ultimate blessing and pleasure. I can feel them turning in my stomach in agony and ecstasy. Also don't make that face the dark prince expects a.. small return on the gifts he gave you."

Asriel stood up he wanted to run and then he remembered the bargain. Meliva said the final price was him to let his comrades escape he had to remain behind. Asriel looked around he saw daemonnetes playing with the corpses some were picking at Eldar bodies devouring small gems embedded in their armour. He looked at Meliva again and a pink and purple mist consumed her.

She took the shape of her host. She was still rubbing her belly she walked over and gripped Asriel's arm like how one would grasp a lover. She leaned her head onto his arm. She spoke softly "Are you ready?" They began walking for a moment back into the corridor leading to the underground area. Asriel was at a loss for words, his mouth quivered he was sweating.
He could run but what used would that be? She could easily drag him wherever she wants to take him. They walked for a few minutes Meliva spoke "Was it worth it?" Asriel looked at her just minutes ago the woman she was now using as a host hurled insults at him. Asriel looked forward he tried to speak firmly "NoI would make the same choice again." Meliva smiled "Good, good."

They stopped at the stairs leading down into darkness Meliva looked at him smiling "Shall we go then?"


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/13 16:23:59


Post by: lliu


Blood prices are good. Interesting dimensions of the summoning of slaaneshi daemons. This was the best chapter so far, I believe.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/13 19:58:53


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Blood prices are good. Interesting dimensions of the summoning of slaaneshi daemons. This was the best chapter so far, I believe.


Thanks this chapter was kinda hard to write to represent the greater daemon correctly, plus the fact that the chaos gods keep taking and demanding even the daemons there is always something they want in return for their aid. Sometimes the price is quite steep as we will see soon.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/14 01:02:42


Post by: shinros


Chapter 9

Adelram looked at the dead Astartes from his own host and from the Salamanders Space marine Chapter their green armour was broken in several places and his brothers already took to looting them. The battle with the loyalist space marines and the Eldar cost them. Out of the 20 Astartes who were in the center only 8 were left including him, Ivan and Jedrick. He cursed this was not meant to happen, he looked up and suddenly the skies were changing to pink eldritch storms were crackling in the skies.

He called over to Jedrick he was turning over a melta gun he looted from one of the dead Salamanders "Jedrick we are leaving! Signal the retreat get the order out!" Jedrick nodded and Ivan came walking over "We can't retreat." Adelram glowered at Ivan "Why? What reason do you have?" Ivan shrugged "Something powerful was summoned it is preventing anyone from leaving. I guess if we tried to take the thunderhawk out of orbit the eldritch lightning will blast us out of the sky."

Adelram cursed again things are still going wrong he then saw a group of soldiers running towards them. His brothers raised their bolters until he saw they were in their colours. Jedrick ran up to the man leading the unit "Report! what's going on!? I have a good feeling you know what's happening." Charlie cast his eyes down "Somewhat sir, Asriel summoned a neverborn. We were trapped between Space marine and Eldar forces."

Adelram walked forwards "How did Asriel know how to do this? Also where is he?" Charlie meekly looked to the ground "He knew the spell to call it he told us to keep running yet when we looked back he was gone. He is still at the church my Lord on the far side of the city. The one the bulk of the human forces were sent to." Jedrick sighed "I have a feeling I know what he summoned. I told him not to mess with that name." Adelram looked at Ivan "Ivan explain I sense your hand in this."

Ivan smiled "My lord I did show Asriel a few things it's not my fault what he decided to do with that knowledge. Still we can't leave the planet until we deal with the neverborn Asriel summoned."

Adelram's anger grew he should kill Ivan for this but considering the situation they might need him. Adelram activated his com "This is Adelram I am relaying an order all forces are to retreat to the thunderhawks, do not lift off just protect the extraction zone I repeat do not lift off and protect the extraction zones."

Adelram looked at Ivan and Jedrick "Us three are going to the Church." Ivan raised his eyebrow "Just the three of us taking on neverborn?" Jedrick chuckled "I relish the opportunity to cross weapons with the children of the dark prince. Also why are you worried Ivan? I thought you are the neverborn specialist?"

Ivan was silent, Adelram turned to charlie "You will go to the extraction zone that's an order." Charlie nodded and ran into the streets toward the extraction point. Adelram turned to Ivan and Jedrick "We're going." Both nodded. They ran through the streets for several minutes. Adelram looked to Ivan he seemed joyful this fact annoyed him since if he is ever happy it is not good news. "I can't help but notice you seem quite happy at what is happening here Ivan." Ivan was slightly panting he chuckled "I have no idea what you mean Lord Adelram." Adelram seethed "Is that right? Why did you teach Asriel such a thing?" Ivan stopped for a moment so did Jedrick, Adelram also stopped. Ivan shrugged "He wished for understanding of the dark prince and his children and I delivered it as I said before it is not my fault on how he decided to use the knowledge I gave him." As Ivan said this a thin smile lined his lips.

Adelram grit his teeth in anger he strode towards Ivan as he did so windows shattered he left small trails of fire at each step. Adelram grabbed Ivan and shoved him to the walls "I should kill you. I bet this is another one of your plots to bring "enlightenment", as I said many times before I am not interested!" Adelram raised his hand it started to charge with energy, Adelram looked at Ivan right in the eyes he still had that annoying smile. He moved to strike to crush his head into dust Adelram then felt a hand holding back his fist. Adelram looked back and he saw it was Jedrick holding back his blow "Dont st-" Jedrick interjected he shook his head "Not now. There is no point is splattering his brain on the walls. Whatever is going on or whatever he planning we will need him when we face the neverborn." Adelram let go of Ivan he breathed out and clenched his fists he can't let his power get out of control. Adelram took several breaths to calm himself down.

Ivan gave himself a slight brush "Lord Adelram.. I am only concerned for you. Look to the state of your warband. I hear hushed whispers of betrayal many are slow to move or act since they cannot "indulge" the Astartes of the house of daemons barely even frequent the abode anymore due to your "restrictions". It even becomes harder to summon the neverborn day by day. No other members of the third wish to join us and the Kakophoni loath you since you deny the song of slaanesh." Adelram scowled "I will not be a slave to a ball of emotions." Ivan scoffed "Slave? We all serve someone in this galaxy it's the only way to survive, so what of your Primarch then? What do you think of him? Do you hold him in low regard as you do all of us?" Adelram slowly removed his helmet and looked at Ivan, Ivan could see the pure fury in his eyes "Watch what you say priest."

Ivan narrowed his eyes and looked to Jedrick "He trusts you far more than me why don't you convince him! You see the state of our warband!" Jedrick looked Adelram and shrugged "It will happen when it happens. You can't force it." Ivan clenched his fists and gave a heavy sigh. Adelram placed his helmet back on and began walking towards the church. Jedrick and Ivan followed in silence.

As they approached the church Ivan clicked his tongue "I feel the aura of the neverborn here pressing against my mind Adelram." Jedrick nodded "Aye I can feel it to, I can't wait." Adelram turned to both of them "Be ready we have no idea what kind of tricks these beings might pull." They walked towards the church the doors. Looking around Adelram could hear a strange sound on the wind. Adelram gazed at the church doors they were closed Adelram pushed them opened and they entered.

As Adelram stepped on the ground there was like a pink ichor that stuck to his feet slowly peeling off with each step. Each step also caused a squish like sound. Adelram looked around he saw blood and his power armor display also detected other vile human fluids. Ivan then breathed in the air "I often hate the places of worship to the emperor but this place smells quite lovely." Jedrick responded "Really?" Jedrick then took off his helmet and clipped it to his belt and breathed in "For once I agree with you Ivan this place does smell pretty good."

Adelram looked at both of them, he then turned forward and took off his helmet. What he smelled was not wonderful or nice it was like a mix of blood, perfume and brimstone. He also caught the scent that came from other vile liquids that was everywhere in the hall and walls. Adelram slammed his helmet back on to breathe the filtered air of his power armour.

Adelram turned back to Ivan and Jedrick "You two are truly degenerates." Jedrick made a smile "Ah brother how you wound me!" Ivan simply ignored the barb. Adelram turned on the flash light of his power armour and he saw groups of men and women intermingling with neverborn. Adelram's face screwed into disgust and as his light shone on one the daemonettes it blinked and leapt up several other daemonettes responded the same way.
The one he shone his light on leaped at him clawing and swiping. Adelram drew his power sword. He charged forward and sliced the daemonette in half pink ichor spraying on the ground. The daemonettes began encircling them Ivan drew his crozius his mace and badge showing his station of Dark Apostle. Adelram looked at Jedrick he had not drawn his weapons he shouted "Jedrick what are you doing!?" Jedrick smiled and pulled out the melta gun that was chained to his back he then fired a beam at a daemonette and it exploded in a burst of brimstone and the ichor splashing everywhere.

Jedrick blew a whistle and stroked the metal gun "I like this gun a lot." Jedrick kept blasting at the daemonettes that were trying to leap forward. As Jedrick was whittling them down all the daemonettes diverted their attention to him. Adelram then moved to cover him slashing at at the daemonettes that got too close.

Ivan was crushing any daemonette that approached in one blow. Then one Adelram assumed to be the leader leaped back and stood on the bench she looked at Adelram directly. It spoke "How your wonderful plan fell to pieces. You thought to placate your men with the killing of Eldar.... You are frustrated... you don't know how to fix all the problems...rampant mutations and none want to join you. If you embraced my dark prince if you embrace your true power this battle would of ended long ago. Perhaps you would not even be in this position... You could of easily dispatched my fellow handmaidens also."
Adelram shouted "Silence! You know nothing! You don't even exist! A reflection of the weak mind nothing more!" The daemon laughed and danced on the bench "Look at how you lie to yourself if you keep spouting such nonsense denying us he will never look at you." Adelram anger grew in intensity he charged swinging his sword at the daemon what surprised Adelram is that it simply stood there and took the blow. Adelram sliced the daemonette in half her upper body falling crashing unto the ground she was still laughing. Her upper body was still speaking "You love him so much yet he does not even spare a glance... you would do anything for him yet you are conflicted.. do you know what he said to me?" Adelram froze for a moment just for a second he almost wanted to hear what she was about to say. Adelram strode towards the upper body, the daemonette smiled "He sa-"Adelram bought his boot down on the daemonettes head. Crushing it. Adelram hissed "Be silent...."

Ivan crushed the last of the daemonettes with his mace, the room grew silent. Jedrick and Ivan walked over Jedrick gripped Adelram's shoulder pad he said "Don't let what she said get to you." Adelram turned silently he responded you mean "It?" Jedrick laughed "There is the Adelram I know!" Suddenly the humans in the room began to awake what shocked Adelram is all of them flew into a ecstatic frenzy licking the walls and floor of the pink ichor left behind by the neverborn.

Adelram drew his sword Ivan raised his hand he said "Leave them in their worship brother their minds have reached new heights." Adelram turned to Ivan "You call this worship!? They look like mad men and women licking up the dregs of beings who blasted their nerves to smithereens. They may even attack us.. better to end them here. " Ivan laughed "Mad men and women? Ha! They are more closer to your primarch than you are! As I said they are in worship they are no threat to us..." Adelram raised his sword to Ivan as he did so a nearby statue shattered into pieces. Jedrick stood in between both of them he sighed "We can save this conversation for later we have neverborn to kill."

Adelram fell silent and sheathed his blade, Ivan turned to a corridor and pointed "I sense a great power in that direction." Jedrick clapped his hands "Well that's where we are going then." Said Jedrick. Adelram walked towards the corridor "You are right Jedrick enough arguing we have a task to do." As they walked down the corridor they heard screams and groans Adelram seethed he wondered why anyone would subjugate themselves to such beings. They offer nothing but misery and corruption. He had to watch the third legion erode into nothing. He had to watch his captain erode and then eventually leaving him behind. They are mocked and hated by the other legions. He wished he was here he could of changed this yet...

Adelram gave a heavy sigh as he is now he would most likely love his corrupted brothers more than him, he might even love Ivan and Jedrick who are not even his gene-sons more than him. Adelram shook his head he needed to focus. They came to a stairwell leading down. Ivan breathed in "It's here.. on guard everyone." Adelram readied his weapon and finally Jedrick readied his knife and axe.
They walked down into the darkness.

They came to a long hall they walked for a few moments and Adelram's mind raced what would they find? Also Asriel was not with the men and women upstairs at times he wondered why does he care so much about a frail young man like him? He appeared almost out of thin air. As Adelram was thinking They reached the end of the hall. Adelram turned to Ivan and Jedrick and nodded at both, Adelram pushed the doors open.

They stepped into the large hall they saw a woman wearing clergy robes sitting next to a man lying on the ground wearing no clothes his body was covered in a black cover. His eyes were closed. Adelram readied his weapon and stepped foward slowly Ivan and Jedrick did the same.

The womans black eyes flicked towards them she smiled "Ah, your here I assume introductions are in order I am Meliva." Adelram responded "I don't care what your name is, you are going back to where you come from so we can leave." Meliva stood up and dusted her robes "A shame.. don't you care what I did to your little servant?" Adelram pointed his sword at Meliva "I will take him from this place after I kill you." Meliva laughed "You can't kill me, not how you are now. Perhaps if you embraced your gift fully maybe you may of stood a chance."

Suddenly Jedrick screamed and charged "Enough! I can't wait anymore!" Meliva laughed "That's it! Son of slaanesh! Give into your excess you only feel alive when fighting! Come!" A pink and purple mist swirled around Meliva and suddenly she was huge her form almost reached the roof of the large hall. Still this did not deter Jedrick he hacked at her leg pink ichor spilling on the ground Meliva then slapped Jedrick with the back of her hand he flew and crashed into the wall.

Ivan looked at Adelram "We can't beat her in combat, Asriel has her true name in his journal and the ritual used to summon her. Distract her give me time!" Adelram was not sure whether to trust Ivan but what choice did they have? Adelram charged, Meliva bought her sword down Adelram caught the blade on his the weight of Meliva's strike bringing Adelram to his knees. The servo's of his power armour stressing on the weight being placed on him. Adelram from the corner of his eye saw Ivan running around the neverborn towards Asriel.
Jedrick shook his head and sat up he began shouting "That was amazing! More! I need More!" Jedrick charged again this time he hooked his axe and knife to his belt and drew the melta gun. He got close and shot a blast into Meliva's leg. Meliva hissed in pain and withdrew her blade from Adelram. She turned to Jedrick and picked him up she looked him in the eye "My dear boy, why don't you let yourself be devoured by me?" Jedrick smiled "Well apologies my lady I can't allow that. Since that would not exactly be a glorious end that the dark prince requires of me." Jedrick then push the melta gun to Meliva's fingers and fired the beam it blew off several fingers Meliva howled in pain and Jedrick flew from her grip and crashed on the ground.

Jedrick was still smiling "I could do this all day!" Adelram shouted at Jedrick "You need to focus! We are in a battle for our lives here!" Jedrick looked up at Adelram "I am, does not mean you can't have fun with it brother!" Meliva shouted "Enough! I grow tired of this." She uttered a fowl language and suddenly Adelram could not move each movement caused intense agony. Jedrick was also lying on the ground unable to move.
Meliva turned towards Ivan, Adelram saw Ivan going through Asriel's Journal Adelram blinked what can he do? What should he do? He then heard a voice in the back of his mind that was silent growing in intensity "Do it... Do it... Do it! DO IT!" Adelram resolved himself once he did this there would be no going back. Yet if he does not it will mean his death.

Adelram closed his eyes and opened his mind further than he ever has before. He then felt like he was drowning he reached into the pool of the warp his nerves stood on end strength was returning to his limbs. He rose and then eldritch fire began dancing on his armour he threw a bolt at Meliva. It splashed against her back she hissed and turned to face him. Adelram knew it was not enough he needed more he reached deeper and the flames grew in intensity and threw another bolt.

It splashed against Meliva's chest the neverborn roared and charged at Adelram Meliva bought her sword down Adelram raised his hand forming a shield. Meliva's sword crashed upon it Adelram felt the intense weight it was far more painful compared to when he caught her strike on his sword. The shield was beginning to crack he looked foward to Ivan he was chanting.

Adelram had to hold Jedrick was still unmoving, Meliva pushed the blow down with both hands the shield was deteriorating that same voice was still echoing in his mind. "I can save you...."Adelram shouted "Never! Leave my mind!" The voice did not stop "Do you wish to die? Look upon them do you wish for them to die?" Adelram looked at Asriel on the floor unconscious then he looked to Jedrick and Ivan. Adelram grit his teeth "I do not I can do this myself! I don't need your help!" The voice responded "Are you sure? Reject me now he will never look at you. He will never praise you. He will never say your name. He will forget you as my children dine on your souls."

The shield was breaking down he thought of him and all he did just to be noticed. Just one tap on the soldier one look is all he wanted. Still he always ignored him and the thought, to hear that he will never look at him terrified him he would not even acknowledge his existence a hole was building in his gut he felt that same shadow building in his twin hearts. Adelram looked down "Fine! I accept are you happy!?" he then could hear the echo of laughter. Yet suddenly he felt a rush of power it was almost euphoric his mind opened and it felt like torrents of energy was surging within him.

He looked up at Meliva Adelram condensed the power of the shield and unleashed it outward Meliva stammered back hissing. Then she began laughing "Finally! I can see his mark on you!" Adelram scowled at the neverborn "Silence!" Adelram formed several energy balls and shaped them into swords using the power of his mind he flinged them at the arm of Meliva severing one of them. Her arm came crashing on the floor and she howled in pain.
Adelram then focused he reformed the eldritch fire yet this time it was purple it was far greater in intensity than the last time and he threw the ball of fire at Meliva. She was consumed in fire. To Adelram Meliva's face was in between pure agony and joy. He looked at Ivan and he saw him standing up arms raised high, it sounded he reached the end of his chant then he uttered the words Mavu'Lyasala'Ummphalei'iss.

The neverborn seized up Ivan's hands then went into a shape like dragging a rug and he pulled back. Adelram saw the neverborn's form breaking down gathering into Ivan's hands the neverborn was screaming and then Ivan placed his hands down on Asriel and the energy diverted into him. There was a flash of light and Adelram then saw the form of the clergy woman lying on the ground her mouth agape eyes filled with terror.

Adelram looked over to Asriel he was convulsing on the floor. Adelram ran over, Jedrick got up freed from the neverborn's spell and ran over in silence. Ivan was breathing heavily he was smiling "My lord! You finally embraced you gift!" He then looked down at Asriel "The neverborn is weakened due to your efforts and I can feel the warp storm dissipating." Adelram could also feel the skies clearing it was like all of his senses were increased. If he focused he could see the soul fires of Ivan and Jedrick they burned brightly their souls were pink in Colouration.

Still Adelram eyes flicked to Asriel he saw something else there and he shouted at Ivan in anger "You put the neverborn in him!" Ivan raised his hands "It was the only way, but now." Ivan raised his mace over Asriel "He must die my lord we have to be safe. Once we kill him the neverborn will return to the warp. " Adelram chuckled "Right you seek to kill him now that he is no longer useful to you? You got your wish you got me to embrace what I am and that thing you follow." Ivan's face was neutral "My lord as I said many times before I am only looking after your best interests." Adelram shouted his voice backed by his psychic power his voice echoed "Silence! Put down your mace Ivan!" Ivan slowly lowered his mace. Ivan was breathing slowly "My lord.. he is not needed anymore. You with your power can push the warband forward." Adelram laughed "Not needed? You don't get to decide that. He is mine Ivan, not yours to do with as you wish. Remember that." Adelram then flexed his fingers fire dancing around them he spoke slowly "I heard that Dark apostles of the word bearers know of certain rituals. The ones dealing with possession you are able to meld the souls of neverborn and Astartes. I heard you done it to many of your old legion. You shall do the same for Asriel."

Ivan moved to protest "My lord he is just a normal young man he would not survive the process his physi-" Adelram cut him off "Oh really Ivan? You are a priest are you not? High in the eye of the "Dark Prince" since you are Priest you are aware of miracles yes? Give me one." Ivan spoke "My lord pleas-" Adelram's helmet lenses flickered with eldritch power "Perhaps I should give you an incentive. Your life is now tied to his. If he dies I will reduce you to ashes and scatter them to the winds." Ivan was silent he looked down at Asriel he knelt and spoke a small incantation. As he ended the incantation Adelram saw Asriel stop convulsing and grew calm. Ivan then wrapped Asriel's body in the black cover and picked him up. Ivan sighed "I stabilized him for now. I will do the rituals once we get back to the ship."

Ivan began walking out, Adelram looked down and saw Asriel's journal on the floor he picked it up he then moved to follow he stopped and turned around Jedrick was standing in the middle of the hall. "Jedrick what's the matter?" Said Adelram. Jedrick was grumbling under his breath he walked up to Adelram his brow furrowed he was also grinding his teeth slightly "Adelram... I lost the chance to kill a greater shard! That was a one in the lifetime opportunity!" Adelram sighed and shook his head "I am sure you will get plenty of other chances Jedrick." Jedrick grumbled "Well... we need to get back to the ship."

Jedrick walked out of the hall grunting and pouting. Adelram stood there by himself he looked at his hand he clenched it and focused and then flames danced around it. Some part of him felt disgusted yet he could not help but smile under his helmet.


Now that is the end of part 1! A big thank you to anyone who has been reading so far.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/17 22:11:15


Post by: shinros


Right now writing up the second part thanks again to any lurkers who decide to read the story and thank you IIius for your comments. It will take some time but the slaanesh corruption will come in full swing and it involves food.

A small extract of course I will tag it just in case. Some people like to avoid spoilers. Also a Warning when the chapter is fully posted there might be some changes and additions.

Spoiler:
The the double doors at the other side of the garden swung open, Adelram's acolytes came forward rolling wine barrels. As this happened all the Astartes were shouting and cheering. Adelram briskly turned and walked towards the wine barrels, his acolytes cracked open the barrels, Adelram looked at the red wine thinking. Adelram then looked to the chained male eldar, the Archon he walked over he saw that the events of the dinner has drained away the will of the eldar to throw insults. Of course having organs removed and devoured would do that to someone and being kept alive to feel every moment.

Adelram then drew his force sword of course keeping his power deactivated he walked forward and made a slash towards the Archon's arm removing it in one stroke. The Archon screamed ignoring his cries Adelram picked up the bloodied arm from the ground and placed it on the cutting board. He then asked Asriel for the largest cutting knife.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/19 03:33:55


Post by: shinros


Start of Part 2

Chapter 10

Asriel felt like he was suspended in the air, he felt something else within his chest and mind moving in anger. The thing seeking to be free it hurt, it hurt so much. It was like his mind was going to explode. He could not see either he heard voices muffling both men. "Has he stabilized yet?" Asriel heard another man speaking "Somewhat, the runes have been written which help keep his body together. Yet I have no idea how that brand appeared on his back." Asriel listened he heard the first person speaking again "Good, I assume this process will be done soon?" Asriel heard silence for a moment "His body is stable, but his mind..." Asriel then heard more muffling he was so tired. His head hurt, he wanted it to end. He was so very tired...

He was sitting in a blank white room on a chair, he was in his ship robes he looked around and when he looked forward he saw a chair in front of him. He blinked then he saw "her" again. The clergy woman yet it was not her it was Meliva. She was smiling. Her tongue flicked out "How long do we have to keep this going? You enjoyed my company and all I want is to help you." Asriel was confused his mind was muddled he could not think properly "What do you mean help me?" Meliva sat back "The priest is keeping m- us from joining together." Asriel rubbed his temples trying to think it was hard "What do you mean join together?" Meliva sat up she walked forward and hugged Asriel. "You wanted for us to join together so we can get revenge."

Asriel was still confused he wondered why he was letting her hug him he felt like he knew her yet not for good reasons "Revenge for what?" Meliva breathed out "why your mother of course." Asriel shot up "You know what happened to my mother?" Meliva looked at Asriel and smiled "Of course I do... do you want to see?" Asriel nodded he was eager to know what happened. He always wondered what happened to her the day she vanished. All he remembered was her distressed face and then men came to take him away to work in the factories.

Asriel then blinked he was back at his parents place on Athor, Meliva was standing there next to him. Asriel saw himself his younger self. Asriel looked at his mother she was beautiful long black hair and mixed in skin colour. His mother was crying after his father left the house after argument dealing with his name. Asriel looked at the clock it was supposedly night time. They still had clocks even though they can't see the sky. Still Asriel recalled the argument was during the day. Asriel looked at his younger self walking up to his mother his old journal in hand "Mother when is Father coming home?"

His mother looked at him tears still in her eyes "1024, your father is not coming home. He is never coming home." She was still crying, Asriel thought to himself it was not until a few days later his mother told him his father was dead caught in gang crossfire. Asriel looked at Meliva "I know about this what am I meant to see?" Meliva was still smiling "This is just the start of the story, my little "love.""

Asriel saw the room shifting again he blinked and then they were in the cathedral of the emperor the one in undercity his parents always took him to visit. He saw his mother praying he heard her words "Emperor please guide my husband soul to your side for glory everlasting. He was a good kind man to me and our son please look after him." She stood up leaving the church. Asriel and Meliva were now suddenly outside, Asriel then saw his mother walking down the steps.

Asriel saw someone, a person he hated. It was his team officer of course he looked pudgy as always to Asriel it seemed like he was waiting for her. His officer moved to his mother "Scribe 641? I heard about what happened you have my condolences. Scribe 542 was well liked by many I heard both of you were going to join the clergy soon earning true names." Asriel felt his anger growing, his mother spoke "Thank you Alex but I am well, I have said my prayers. Perhaps the emperor is delaying our naming for a little while longer." Asriel turned the name in his mind his officers name was Alex. Just thinking of it disgusted Asriel.

Alex moved to his mother "I heard of a place that can ease one's soul. They have also been talking of taking a better stance against gangs as well." Asriel saw his mother's eyes lit up "Oh are they are holy preacher then?" Alex shifted his eyes slightly "Of a sort, they are rather new she has been saying some great things actually." Alex then handed Asriel's mother a pamphlet. Asriel's mother looked at it smiling "It even has directions! Also it's not in a bad part of town either." She then looked up smiling "Thank you Alex, I will attend tonight's speech. According the pamphlet there is one today." With her mentioning she will attend tonight's preaching Alex lit up yet Asriel saw something else in his eyes. Something he did not like.

Alex coughed slightly "I see, we could go together since it could be dangerous for a lady to walk by herself these days." Asriel's mother gave a gentle smile "Perhaps, we could meet at the gathering I know my way around." Alex then looked a bit upset yet he still seemed happy at the prospect of meeting Asriel's mother. Alex nodded "Then I will see you there then." Alex turned to walk away his mother was looking at the pamphlet smiling.

Asriel turned to Meliva "I am glad he is dead, I don't trust him. Did he do something to my mother?" Meliva made a coy smile "No, of course he does want to do something do you want to hear my little "love"?" Asriel curled his lips in disgust "No I do not." Meliva shrugged, soon everything shifted again and they were back at his family home. He saw his mother was getting ready to go out. Asriel saw his younger self waiting at the door "Mother I don't want you to leave. I am afraid you won't come back." Asriel's mother smiled at stroked his head "I am just going somewhere to feel better. Also I heard of a nice lady who speaks of things to stop the gangs from doing bad things. So why don't you go to bed?" Asriel's younger self pouted and walked off to his room.
Asriel saw his mother step out, Asriel blinked and then found himself outside a building it did not look old or out of place. He looked at Meliva she was looking at the building her snake like tongue was whipping out franticly with excitement. Asriel looked around he saw Alex to his displeasure and she saw his mother running to meet him. She was panting out of breath.

Alex smiled "Ah you are here, the sermon is starting soon why don't we go inside?" His mother smiled and followed Alex inside. Asriel turned to Meliva "What is the significance of this place?" Meliva looked at Asriel her black eyes boring into him "This place is truly important so you can understand why we must join together." Asriel furrowed his brows "right we are going to see what happens inside yes?" Asriel blinked again then he found himself within the hall.

There were tons of people sitting in chairs people he recognized. He saw Jimmy who ran the bar in the undercity seating in the front row. Asriel looked around his mother was sitting in the back row with Alex next to her. People were talking for a moment and then someone shuffled forward onto the stage. He was wearing white robes. "The white lady shall speak! The one with the golden voice and the holy preacher!" There were murmurs in the crowd. Then a woman in a white long gown that covered her whole body stepped onto the stage. She was wearing a hood she stood in the centre of the stage. She gently removed her hood revealing long flowing blonde hair, her skin was milky white and she looked enchanting.

Asriel recognized her his head hurting again a name was coming forward. He spoke it "Isira...." She looked exactly how she did when Asriel met her that time.... Asriel felt another spike in his mind. He looked up and Isira began to speak "Thank you for gathering here, I am here to speak of the holy one and to speak of how to keep our sons, wives, daughters and husbands away from the harsh lives of the gangs that prowl our streets."
Asriel looked at his mother a tear in her eye she breathed "She looks... so beautiful... she must be touched by the emperor." Asriel saw Alex gulping he was building a small amount of sweat. Isira continued speaking "The holy one hears your plea's of anguish and hurt. All he wants is for you to enjoy the bounty of your lives. To eat a hearty meal instead of the cold rations that you have to live on. To live with smiles on your faces. Not to weep for dead family members" Many in the crowd nodded. Isira smiled she began to sing. It was enchanting even Asriel was almost lost in the song until he remembered his mother.

She was being swept up in the tune tears rolling down her cheeks Asriel heard her mutter a sentence "She bears the voice of the emperor... she..." Asriel looked around the crowd everyone was in tears. The song went on for a few minutes until Isira stopped, Isira then looked upon the crowd of people "each of my helpers will hear of your troubles and advise you the best they can but first..." She clapped her hands.

A man came onto the stage pushing a cart full of wonderful food and wine he wore a white robe obscuring his face. Asriel looked at the food there was Fine wine on the cart most in the undercity would never see such a thing. The food? Meat? Rice? Steamed Vegetables. The food of nobles most people in the undercity would never see such food in their life times Asriel thought.

Asriel looked at the crowd lurching up mouths drooling, including his mother. Then more white robed people poured out of the stage and began dividing the food up onto plates. They began walking down the stage handing it out to the people in the crowd. Asriel saw Alex stuffing his face crying. Asriel looked he saw his mother she was hesitant just for a moment. She drank the wine her hand was shaking she breathed "This tastes wonderful...." She then took her knife and fork and began eating the meat small tears dropping down her cheeks.
Asriel looked at her eating yet a part of him was happy his mother has been through so much he was happy she could at least have a small moment of joy. Asriel saw many of the robed men and women talking to the people in the crowd. Alex was talking to a robed woman about his troubles. How his wife was killed recently by a gang, how it was harder to work. How he put on more weight and ate more food to deal with it.

A small part of Asriel felt pity for him, Asriel tried to hold onto that disgust but it was hard. He looked away and saw his mother still eating. Until Isira walked over with two robed people behind her. The two robed men placed a chair next to his mother and Isira sat down. Isira looked at his mother her eyes gentle, Asriel's mother slowly put the fork and knife down. Tears still in her eyes. She looked at Isira "I wish he was here so we could of enjoyed this together." Isira smiled "Your husband is in a better place, you also have a wonderful boy to protect as well." His mother's eyes flicked up "How did you know? How did you know I had a son?" Isira closed her eyes "The holy one whispers into my ear, your love, your happiness, your want for your life. You wished for the naming day so finally you could give a name to the boy you love." Isira looked down "My husband did not believe it was coming any time soon it pained him constantly to refer to my boy as a number. I believe the emperor had a plan in place." Asriel looked at Isira's face flicker slightly at the mention of emperor it was so subtle most people would not even see it. Isira spoke softly "There is a plan in place I see great things for the future of your boy. A life in the stars, him seeing a garden for the first time. He even see's a space marine."

Asriel was confused is she saying what she wants to hear or is it the truth? Meliva breathed gently in Asriel's ear whispering "Is it not the truth? Did you not see the stars? Did you not see the garden?" Asriel thought to himself more memories spiking into his mind. He saw a large Space marine he could not remember his name exactly. He was important to him for some reason. Asriel then focused on his mother. She seemed entrapped by Isira's words she was listening intently focusing on every word that came out of her mouth. Isira kept speaking "I see a future a blurry one with you at his side smiling." Isira touched her head slightly as if she was in pain.

She then looked at Asriel's mother "The holy one's visions are quite stressful." Asriel's mother bowed her head "I am sorry I did not wish to cause you pain." Isira waved her hand "Do not worry I do this gladly it gives me great joy to do so. To bring more people to the word of the holy one. Yet I ask you this just this one thing. Do not speak of this place to others." Asriel's mother nodded.

The talking went on for an hour until Isira finally moved to someone else in the crowd. Asriel saw his mother thinking. Then Asriel blinked again he was back at home he saw himself at the desk writing and his mother reading a book. Asriel thought to himself how long has it been since his mother visited that place? Meliva response seemed like she read his mind "It's been a few months. She has thrown herself at studying the word of Isira some small joy and stability is coming back to her life in these past few months." Asriel's younger self got up from his desk and walked over to his mother "What are you reading mother?" Asriel asked innocently. His mother looked at him and gave him a gentle smile "I am reading the word of the holy one, the word of the emperor." Asriel younger self smiled "Mother can I read it?" His mother's face seemed unsure "Perhaps when you are older." Asriel's younger self pouted and walked back to his desk until he heard a knock. Asriel younger self then rushed to the door shouting "I will get it!" Asriel's mother shot up "1024! Don't answer the door!" Asriel saw himself stop.

His mother then got up and went over to the door she opened it gently and looked through the crack. She looked shocked she murmured something for a moment and then the door opened wide. Asriel saw it was Isira she was wearing a simple robe and hood. She was at his house by herself.

Asriel's mother let Isira in. Isira was looking around smiling his mother looked nervous. Asriel mother broke the silence "Lady Isira this is a surprise I did not expect this." Isira turned "Oh? I just came to tell one of our most faithful we are having a grand congregation tonight." Asriel saw his mother's face lit up then she looked at his younger self and became sad "Is it another feast? Can my Son come? I.. at times feel bad that he does not get to enjoy the things we eat." Isira smiled "After the grand congregation your son can join." Asriel's mother smiled she walked over to his younger self she smiled and introduced his younger self to Isira. Yet Asriel was confused he did not remember ever meeting Isira. Meliva said "She did not want you to remember my little love right now her eyes are focusing on one person." Isira was looking at his younger self Asriel noted he looked a little scared until Isira bent down and kissed him on the cheek. Isira smiled "Your mother has been learning many things to keep you safe, you have a great future ahead of you."

Asriel younger self nodded, Asriel then saw he started to look tired he turned to his mother "I feel kinda tired I am going to take a nap Mother." His mother blinked then looked up to Isira and then down to his younger self "Alright you run off to your nap now." Asriel saw himself walk to his old room and shut the door.

He then looked at his Mother she rubbed her arm slightly "So is it at the usual place?" Isira shook her head "No I came to deliver the map personally." Isira then handed his mother a slip she looked at it and smiled "Not a bad part of town. This is good."

Isira smiled "Actually the grand congregation will be starting soon I personally came to retrieve you actually." His mother's eyes furrowed "Why? Also I can't just leave without saying anything to my boy." Isira then gently brushed her hand against his mother's cheek "My teacher the great apostle sees great things in your future. Please come with me do the grand congregation. Think of your future you and your son." Asriel saw his mother shiver slightly she looked down then up at Isira. Asriel could see in Isira's eyes that she was hoping begging that she would say yes. His mother said "I will get my things." Asriel then saw Isira smiling it looked almost honest.

Isira nodded and walked to the door "I will be waiting outside" she said. Asriel looked at the room swirling into the darkness Meliva raised her hands "we are almost there my little "love"" Asriel's head began to hurt even more. He saw the room changing again he was blinking rapidly then he was in a grand hall with Meliva. Asriel looked at her she was smiling in anticipation.

He saw the room was filled with people in white robes he also saw Alex and his mother holding a vial with pink liquid. Also wearing white robes. He looked at his mother she was fidgeting. Then she saw Isira standing in front of the crowd of people she raised her hands "The ones standing here today have been chosen! Chosen to carry the word of the holy one further. The final step to learn the true word! Drink the vial and let go of everything to serve the holy one!" Asriel saw several people in white robes drinking the vial. Even Alex drank down the liquid. Asriel looked at his mother she was still unsure.

Then suddenly people began throwing off their robes and dashed at each other and fell into an ecstatic orgy. Asriel looked to the group of people piling together and his mother. He said to himself run! That she needed to run. His mother was shaking she almost bought the vial to her lips then she dropped the vial. It cracked on the floor the pink liquid flowing on the floor she then ran out. One of the robed men went to move until Isira stopped him "My lady... if word gets out..." Isira looked saddened to Asriel's surprise "So teacher was right I wished... She would of been there... I... I.."

Asriel went to run after his mother as he ran to the door and opened it he was back at home. He saw himself rubbing his eyes this familiar scene spilling back into his memory. He saw his mother distressed her back to the door eyes darting she looked at his younger self. She shouted "1024! Go back to bed! Please!"

Asriel saw himself jump and he ran back to his room. Asriel saw his mother leaving the house. Asriel blinked and he saw the Arbite station he saw his mother walk in. He shouted "No! Come back!" He knew deep down what might happen yet he hoped nothing will occur. Meliva grabbed his arm again and leaned her head onto his arm. A certain fear creeped back into his heart again when she did that.

Meliva breathed out quivering "Do you want to see what happened?" Asriel looked at Meliva "Show me! Show me what happened to her!" Meliva closed her eyes and then Asriel found himself in a cell he looked at his mother she was sitting at a desk. She looked bruised and beaten. She had a black eye and her hair, her wonderful hair was cut harshly.

A man was sitting away from her he wore a necklace with an I dangling from his chest the man spoke flatly "You tell me a deviance cult drew you in and is seeking to corrupt people in the undercity?" His mother nodded, the man then slammed his fist on the table "You took in their heretical words, staining your mind and body?" Asriel looked at his mother she was crying she breathed out "I did not know, I thought in the end I might have a better future for my boy." The man stood up "Excuses! A heretic always makes excuses! You knew what you doing. All I hear is a woman who sinned and is making excuses for it!" Asriel's mother cast her gaze down she said "I only wanted to serve the emperor sir. It's why I came here.. It's why I ran away." Asriel's mother coughed, Asriel walked forward he wanted to hug her comfort her yet when he reached forward his hand simply phased through her.

Asriel kept trying to grab her nothing. Tears began rolling down his cheeks. He was then in the hallway outside of the cell still trying to reach, still crying. He saw the man walk out of the cell Asriel looked at him his face bared scars, he wore a red hood and wore black carapace armour. The man turned to the the Arbite "I have learned everything I wanted from her, have her killed and reduced to dust. Then have it shot out into space." He began to walk away yet he stopped and turned to the arbite "Since she did a last service, make sure she does not die quickly she must know the weight of her sins that she will now carry in her soul forevermore." Asriel grit his teeth he roared and charged the man trying to hit him again and again. Nothing his hands were phasing through him.

Meliva grabbed both of his fists in her hands she cocked her head to one side "Now you see?" Asriel crumpled on the floor Meliva knelt down with him she hugged his head. Asriel breathed "I want him to suffer, I want to kill him." Meliva stroked his head "We can make him suffer, my little "love" just let me in. Together we can bring him agony, agony so pure he would wish he was dead." Asriel looked up at Meliva "How do I do this? Tell me Meliva."

Meliva gave an innocent smile "Just close your eyes and open your mind I will join with you gently...." Asriel closed his eyes then he felt agony, he felt cold, it was like he was tumbling. He screamed. Asriel could hear Meliva laughing then stillness he could not move he tried to open his eyes yet he could not. He saw flashes in his mind memories flooding back Meliva's face changing into that of a neverborn. Asriel shouted in the darkness all her heard was Meliva's laughter.

Dark Apostle Ivan of the eternal sin host looked at the man chained up in midair. His arms and legs were chained to two pillars in midair in a star shape. He looked at the ritual writing on his arms and legs flowing Colchian runes carefully inscribed on the man's flesh. Ivan thought how close he was to finally dealing with this "problem". It took a few months but he felt he was almost there and his life would be secured.

Ivan heard the door open he looked back it was Isira. He sighed and turned back to look at the chained man "Isira what's the matter? You come here everyday." Isira was silent for a moment "Teacher you know why." Ivan breathed out a heavy sigh "I do, you were smitten with this young man's mother and now her son. That day he came and you realized it was him... you stalk him when he is not looking." Ivan gave a slight laugh "You are lucky you are blessed with eternal youth. If he knew your true age he would of run away. You could not have the mother now you want the son. I told you she would not truly accept the word." Isira clenched her teeth "I hop-" Ivan cut her off "You hoped to have a sister to talk to or someone to love. The boy was also a bonus." Isira looked away "You are right teacher, I wanted her badly she looked so innocent back then, then I finally found her son grown into a young man. My heart went aflutter that same innocence, that same curiosity. I wanted them. now..."

Ivan creased his brow with his hands "Enough Isira your tastes aside, Soon this process will be done, Adelram will have his prized pet back." Isira looked up at the man "It looks like he is sleeping. Will Asriel awake soon?" said Isira. Ivan eyed Asriel up and down "Possibly, I am still concerned with the state of his mind handling the possession of the children of the dark prince is not easy. They can easily wear the mind of the occupant down. It is why we normally don't use them in my old legion when doing this process."

Suddenly Asriel looked up his Sclera turning black the pupils of his blue eyes shifting into slits. He began snapping with fangs and shouting in twin voices "Finally! His wonderful body is mine! His body is mine Priest!" Ivan cursed he thought to himself the neverborn somehow took control of a great part of his mind. Ivan turned to Isira "Did his mother know anyone? Anyone important that Asriel may know or have connection to? Someone he cared for save his family?" Isira shook her head "His mother kept him close and according to her his father largely kept him indoors save for taking him out on small walks." Ivan cursed again he stabilized the body, but the mind is weak still.

Ivan was thinking then it dawned on him "Isira contact Lord Adelram, he will be needed."

Adelram was moving his mind across the tides of the warp, feeling out the cries of anguish and suffering. Noting down what he saw, what he felt. He sent his mind further deeper he looked at the neverborn tearing apart strands of soulstuff. They were twisting in agony as they were torn apart. Adelram gave a slight smile he found strangely watching the suffering of others to be joyful, amusing even. He wondered this is how his brothers felt back then? Perhaps even now? Yet He was also looking for something, possibly him.. of course no one has ever found his abode. Many of the third have tried and failed.

Adelram sighed his mind slowly drifting back to his body, he looked around his room how it changed in the past few months. Medical books, along with grimoires of power. Fetishes lined his shelves and scrolls hanged at various points in his room. He looked at his desk a Journal sitting on the table. His Journal. He has spent time going through the contents and after reading it several times he finally understood how much of an impact he had on his servant to his astonishment. Then he saw a light beeping on his table. He pressed the red button and on the small screen he saw Ivan's pet. He pressed the green button and the doors slid open.

Isira stepped into the room and bowed "My Lord, Apostle Ivan wishes to see you." Adelram raised his eyebrow under his helmet "Why? What does he need of me?" Adelram backed this line with a bit of his power. He saw Ivan's little creature her soul shuddering in fear Isira spoke meekly "He did not tell me why other than she wished to see you." Adelram stood up from his desk and walked over to Isira he grasped her chin with his hand. Isira winched, Adelram looked at her right into her pink eyes "He sends you because he fears my displeasure." Isira's mouth was quivering "I do not know the mind of Apostle Ivan my lord." Ivan held her more tightly not too tight just a small amount of force he brushed his mind against hers. He felt her concern for his servant, a servant Ivan used and broke. A servant he favored. He also felt that she knew something went wrong.

Adelram chuckled "So something did go wrong. I wonder since he sent you, should I punish you Isira?" Isira eyes began to flutter not in fear, Adelram could see it was in anticipation she began quivering Adelram gave another soft laugh "Though I fear you would enjoy my punishment too much." Adelram let go off chin, Isira rubbed it slightly. Adelram turned away from Isira "Tell Ivan that I am coming and he should prepare a good explanation he said everything was under control."

Isira bowed again and left his chambers. Adelram thought to himself how his warband also changed in the past months also. Mutation is rampant amongst his brothers, even among the human crew and all of them fall deeper into depravity. Yet a part of him allows it to a point even he has started to feel the tang the joy of suffering. He was still not sure whether to embrace or move away from the feeling.

Ivan looked at Asriel thrashing in the chains his face trying to snap for him suddenly he stopped. He saw Asriel look up he spoke his voice mixed with the neverborn "He loves me you know? The things I did to him within the pits of the Cathedral. He will never let go of me. We have an understanding... give up priest..." Ivan chuckled "Ah but I am preparing something for you neverborn you underestimate this "Love"." Ivan then heard his doors open he looked back it was Adelram.

Adelram walked slowly and stopped right next to him. He looked at Ivan his blue eye lenses flashing with power "I thought you said he was stabilized? I think feel the neverborn's power growing." Ivan looked to Adelram he said "Yes I said his body was stable." Ivan then tapped his head "You see the problem I am having is his mind. As I said before" Adelram nodded and folded his arms "So tell me Ivan, how will you stabilize my servants mind?" Ivan licked his lips "My Lord, I fear you may not like what I am about to say." Small purple fire began dancing around Adelram's power armour "Speak plainly Ivan."

Ivan breathed out "My Lord, his mind is not stable as I said I suspect he has nothing to latch unto. I questioned his associates at length and I learned by large they are still... acquaintances. To help pull his mind over the neverborn I suspect he needs someone who has impacted his life the most. Someone to help guide him. I need to send your mind into his to help him battle the influence of the neverborn. With your newfound acceptance of your gift your mind and soul should be strong enough to do it." Adelram looked up at Asriel then to Ivan "So be it." Ivan blinked in surprise "I did not expect you to accept so easily my lord."

Adelram said "Well I am quite curious on this whole ritual and the experience of entering someone else's mind in such a fashion. Also if this is the best course to sort out the problem so be it." Ivan breathed a sigh of relief "Now my lord to begin if you just sit in front of Asriel and remove your helmet." Adelram nodded he sat in front of Asriel cross legged he then gently removed his helmet. Ivan then knelt down and dapped something that felt like ashes on his forehead. It felt hot and prickly on his skin.

Ivan then stood up "My lord please close your eyes and focus on Asriel and send your mind forward." said Ivan. Adelram then closed his eyes focusing sending his thoughts to Asriel. He could also hear Ivan chanting the heat on his forehead built up he clenched his eyes. Then Adelram opened them he was in a hive city. He was in front of a house. He reached for the door he looked at his hand and saw it was not his. His hand was dark in skin colour and he looked to be wearing a red robe. Yet it still felt like he was in his power armour, Adelram slowly opened the door.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/19 20:31:28


Post by: shinros


Chapter 11

As Adelram stepped through he found he did not even need to bend down slightly to step through the door. He walked into a apartment, he saw a woman in the chair reading and a young boy sitting at the desk writing. The woman looked up "Your home? You came home? 542? Is that you?" Adelram was confused then he remembered on Athor many of the people in the undercity had serial numbers instead of names. A practice he found strange and annoying. He ignored the woman and turned to the boy at the desk.

Adelram spoke yet it was not his voice "Asriel, we are leaving." upon hearing that the boy shot up to attention the boy turned to look at him tears welling up in his eyes "Father is that you?" The boy got up to move but then his mother moved to hold him back "Husband? What are you saying? His name is 1024 we discussed this." Adelram looked at the woman something slowly dawning on him so this is the neverborn. As Adelram said this within his mind he saw the face of what he assumed to be Asriel's mother flicker for a moment. He looked down at Asriel "Asriel do you want to be here? If you come with me you will have want you ever wanted."

Adelram saw Asriel holding close to his fake mother he looked up to his "Mother, I really like the name I..." His mother spoke "1024, you don't like to see us fight. Just ignore what your father is saying." Adelram scoffed "How about you let him decide for himself? His name is Asriel. You don't have his best interests in mind." Adelram then saw his "mother's" face screw into disgust "Yet you do!? You heard the stories you want them to take him away! Take us away!"

Asriel burrowed his face into his "mother's" leg "I don't want them to take either of you way! I will be a good boy! Father my name is 1024! I don't want to see either of you fight." Adelram folded his arms "Yes woman I do have his best interests in mind. I gave him a life he felt worth living, I showed him the stars, I showed him the garden. I acknowledge who he is as a person giving him his name. I saw that rough diamond that talent to be sculpted and perfected."

As Adelram said this he saw Asriel perk up "Stars? Flowers?..." Asriel then gripped his head in pain "It hurts. It hurts, it hurts, it hurts!" Adelram saw his "mother" hold him tight "Sssh I will make it go away." She began singing and Asriel began relaxing somewhat. Adelram cursed under his breath. Then he thought of his journal, he memorized various extracts and entries. He read it back to back since the possession situation."

Adelram closed his eyes and opened them he said "I have a gift." Adelram walked towards and knelt before Asriel and held out his empty hand he focused forming the image in his mind and slowly a black bound leather book appeared. Asriel looked at it staring he was about to reach out to grab it until his "mother" held him tighter. She began to sound nervous "Husband I thought you already got him a Journal." Adelram ignored her "Asriel the place we are going to you are going to need a much larger book. Do you want to stay in this small house for the rest of your life slaving away in a factory or a church? Or do you want to go beyond this place?"

Asriel then looked up to Adelram he was no longer crying he moved away from his "mother" to her shock. He looked at the black book he touched it gently with his small hands Adelram looked at him his brown eyes slowly changing to blue he said "So father you will take me to the stars? To see more things? I-" Adelram nodded he said softly "Enough words if you truly wish to follow me take the book."

Asriel stood there for a moment thinking, his mother screeched "Don't listen to him! He is lying!" Adelram smiled "Why don't you let him decide what future he wants for himself?"

Asriel started to cry again he slowly picked up the black book "Why did you come home now?" Adelram stood up over and stroked his head "You have a lot more to see and do Asriel. Come with me." Adelram began walking Asriel to the door. His "mother" screeched in anger and rushed forward her form shifting as she was about to strike. Adelram turned a claw almost touching his eye "If you attack me now in front of him, you will have lost truly and utterly is that what you want? "Wife"?" The woman withdrew her claw and moved back to her chair slowly her tongue whipping out like a snake "Take him then, I underestimated how much he valued you." Adelram chuckled he could feel the neverborn seething in anger "You underestimated him too much." He looked down at Asriel he was still crying.

Adelram then opened the door light cracking through, the light blinded him when he opened the door all the way. Adelram opened his eyes and he looked up Asriel was no longer thrashing about his eyes were shut. Adelram stood up and looked to Ivan "Is this satisfactory?" Ivan breathed out a prayer "I did not expect you to do this well my lord." Adelram looked at Ivan "What did you expect?" Ivan turned his head away slightly "I did not expect the neverborn to be subdued this much. I had no idea how much value your servant placed in you." Adelram shrugged "That means you need to treat yours better."

Adelram began walking out of the room he stopped at the door "Tell me when he wakes up." Adelram then walked out. Ivan looked at Asriel again he was smiling "Perhaps something could be gained from this..."

Asriel felt groggy he slowly opened his eyes it was like he was sleeping for an age. He was dreaming he was sure he saw what happened to his mother then nothing... Then he saw his father again taking him away afterwards he saw flashes of him. He guided him, Asriel then felt something moving inside his mind and chest. Something "alive" he heard a voice "I am here with you, we are soulmates now." Asriel jolted the sensation was like a pleasure spike he could also feel it- her smiling.

Asriel felt himself dangling in mid air he wanted to get down, he wanted to leave this place. He spoke he uttered words that were alien to him but also familiar. The chains evaporated into dust and he fell onto the floor. Yet it did not hurt him like he thought it would he barely felt it at all.

Asriel looked at himself he saw the whole length of his arm and legs were covered in scripture, reading it he understood a small amount of the words. They read to be words that bind and hold neverborn. Asriel then flexed his fingers he saw his nails and even his toenails were now black like they were painted.

He also wore a loincloth and nothing else. Asriel thought to himself he needed clothes, he needed to get out of this room. He looked at the doors he walked over he pushed them slightly they were not locked. He walked down the dark hall he thought to himself, where was he? What happened? He was walking by himself for several minutes until he found a silk banner resting on the wall.

Asriel tore it off and wrapped it around himself. Asriel sniffed the air he could smell people he followed the scent on his nose. He kept walking through the corridors until he found himself in a familiar place. The Grand cathedral of the house of daemons. Yet it looked different, slightly. He actually saw Astartes walking around whipping themselves or whipping people. He saw black barbed whips lashing the backs of chained humans. Their screams reverberating in his ears.

Asriel perked up at this he felt his teeth lengthening, his nails turning into talons. It smelled wonderful here, their pleasure, agony and anguish all mixed together. It felt intoxicating. He heard her voice again "Why don't you join them?" Asriel hissed under his breath "Not yet, I want to leave." Asriel then heard pouting within his mind, He tried to remember where the exit was he walked forwards towards the doors. Everyone paying him no mind whatsoever they were caught up in their debauchery.

The twin doors slid open and he walked through. He was on the ship decks again it also felt different he could feel it. The smell of the ship was also far stronger than he remembered. Where should he go? His room? He thought of his room. He traced his steps back he stood in front of his room door, the doors slid open.

He looked around his room it was how he left it he actually found it's been cleaned. Asriel removed the silk banner. And rushed to the chest of drawers he found several robes in there. But first Asriel sniffed himself he stank, the smell was terrible. It disgusted him, he looked over to his shower in the corner.

He took off the loin cloth and had a shower his mind was racing What should he do first? Who should he see first? His mind started to drift who should he kill and torture first? Kill someone gently even, slowly. Asriel shook his head why did he think that? he heard her voice again "That is a good idea... we should do that..." Asriel thought to himself perhaps but not now.

He dried himself with the towel on the side of the shower. He went over to his desk and opened it. There were robes stuffed into the drawer. Asriel placed the robes on his body, He also put on the hood. He left his room he walked around the upper levels some more he started to realize when he passed people they tried to avoid his gaze. He guessed it was the robes he felt something has changed on the ship.

He saw a space marine walking towards him his armour was heavily mutated a licking face lined his left shoulder pad and his chest had leering eyes. He was also armed to the teeth a axe and combat knife swaying at his hips and a chained gun swinging from his back. He also saw a white fur cloak wrapped around his waist and a skull jingling from his back.

The marine kept walking towards him Asriel looked at him deeper he saw his soul shining like a blazing inferno Asriel started to drool just slightly. Yet a familiar name was coming into his mind and he said it out loud as the Astartes walked past him "Jedrick" The marine stopped and turned "It's lord Jedrick worm, or perhaps one of Adelram's pets might go missing today? I am getting quite good at peeling away skin with my Axe Silas taught me a few things."

Jedrick walked over he stood in front of Asriel he seemed confused he spoke his helmet making his voice sound like a roar "Not a single ounce of fear. Strange.... Who are you?" Jedrick stepped closer. Asriel stood there unmoving, As he stepped closer Asriel realized Jedrick smelled a lot better Asriel thought he caught the scent of a heavy musk. Surrounding his frame. Jedrick stepped closer "No matter.. perhaps you are a fool.. Who are you worm to disrespect me?"

Asriel stood silent. He wondered how did he disrespect him? Then suddenly Jedrick lifted him up with one hand and shoved him roughly to the wall. As Jedrick did this all the human workers scattered from the hall. Jedrick removed his hood forcefully. As he did this he felt his grip loosening he said under his breath "Your awake?" Jedrick put him down slowly he repeated slowly "You are awake...."

Asriel blinked then said "Do I have something on my face?" Jedrick then gave his standard laugh his laugh was like a rumble through his helmet. Jedrick then took off his helmet Asriel saw that Jedrick still looked androgynous, yet his skin now had a oil like sheen his skin was milky white with a pink like hue. Jedrick hooked his helmet to his belt he gave Asriel a rough tap on his back, Asriel almost fell over due to the force "You should come to my place, I will inform Adelram." Asriel simply nodded, he thought it would be a good idea to stick with someone he knew. The ship has changed perhaps Lord Jedrick would tell him.

He walked with Jedrick Asriel realized many of the servants they came across stood clear of Jedrick, they were trying hard not to meet his gaze. Asriel began taking in the scent of the ship again it smelt wonderful the hint of honey and perfume mixed together it was much more stronger than before. Jedrick saw Asriel sniffing around "Aye the ship smells a lot better doesn't it? The touch of the dark prince is on this ship. So much changed after Adelram did his little stunt."

Asriel was confused "What stunt?" Jedrick smiled "Going into your mind of course! Since then You have been asleep for about a year!" Asriel mumbled then he looked at him eyes wide "A year!?" Jedrick nodded "A year. I bet you are wondering what changed?" Asriel was still in shock "I am quite curious actually." Jedrick laughed "Now as you know since Adelram embraced his powers and the dark prince the worship of her spread like wildfire in the ship. Of course it was far more controlled before, yet now... we are walking a path of suffering and pleasure to improve ourselves with wanton abandon. Still Adelram does impose some small amount of order."

They kept walking until they came to familiar double doors, Jedrick stopped "This is my place." Asriel raised his eyebrow "I already know that." Jedrick chuckled in response "Asriel it's changed since then for the better." Asriel saw there was a keypad on the right and Jedrick pushed several buttons. The doors slid open and all Asriel heard were screams. Yet he could pick out which ones were of pain and pleasure. Asriel closed his eyes drawing in the noise. A small shiver went up his spine. He then looked at Jedrick.

Jedrick was still smiling "Shall we go in?" The excitement in Asriel was building his heart thundered. As Asriel stepped in the house of warriors. It did look different. He saw soldiers no not soldiers anymore cultists cutting at chained prisoners gently with knives. People in manacles being dragged around by Astartes some were crying in agony.

The fighting pits were still there Asriel walked over to the center one he saw two men fighting slashing at each with blades. It was not till first blood the battle was till the death both men were covered in small gashes and cuts. They were slashing and parrying until A cultist warrior hacked off the head of the other man blood spraying upwards covering spectators cultists began wiping the blood on their faces quivering pleasure. The cultist warrior then threw the head out into the crowd and several people fell onto it in a bedlam of estatic frenzy.
Asriel nodded he found all of this pleasing as he thought this he felt a slight headache. Why did he like it? It was not as he remembered yet.. Jedrick walked up to Asriel "That is someone you know, he is my favorite actually it's a shame I did not find him younger. I would of had Adelram turn him into an Astartes." The cultist warrior stepped out of the pit he approached Jedrick and bowed he then looked to Asriel in shock.

The man wore a latex gas mask, his arms were covered in piercings and he wore shiny black leather straps on his wrists and along with combat trousers. The man said his voice raspy "Asriel? Is that you?" Asriel recognized the voice right away "Charlie?" Charlie gave a laugh "It's good to see you! Did you see that? How I loped his head off!?" Charlie then scratched his head "Er you do have stomach for this don't you?" Asriel gave a gentle smile "It was a good cut, took his head clean off."

With all the hedonism in the room Asriel felt his eyes shifting again, his nails sharpening into talons and some of his teeth turning into fangs. Charlie breathed a rasp in surprise "Asriel? Are you blessed how did your body do that?" Asriel looked at his black fingernails turning into talons "I don't know." He turned to Jedrick I need to ask you something Jedrick raised an eyebrow "Oh? What do you need to ask?" Asriel then removed the top of his robe showing his body and arms "Can you tell me what this means?"

As Asriel did this he felt several people looking at him he got the sense somewhere admiring or thinking other thoughts. Jedrick grabbed his arm and grumbled "My Colchisian is pretty terrible Asriel Ivan normally tried to force his books on me they bored me enough to make me fall asleep. Ivan did not get the hint until I chopped one in half with my axe. I can at least tell these are several ritual words to bind a neverborn." Jedrick then looked at Asriel's back his eyes went wide a little "I know what that is." Asriel was confused "What are you looking at?"

Charlie then moved to his back and he saw him breath a prayer. Jedrick spoke "You are marked Asriel." Asriel furrowed his brows "I don't understand." Jedrick began explaining "You bear the brand of the dark prince on your back, that was not placed there by Mortal Hands." Asriel was still confused "So what does that mean?" Jedrick sighed "It means you are in the dark prince favor and you belong to him forever more."

Asriel thought to himself he was strangely happy at that fact for some reason. Asriel then put on his top again. Jedrick gestured to his chair it was still the same as always "Why don't we sit you have been dangling in the air for a year." Asriel then realized his legs felt a tiny bit wobbly yet he was not tired. He accepted Jedrick's offer.

Jedrick turned to Charlie "Bring us two slaves." Charlie nodded and ran off. Jedrick and Asriel walked over to his huge chair and sat down. The chair felt more comfy than Asriel remembered he let himself sink in. Jedrick laughed "Oh Asriel if you were there during the past raids this last year. How your skin would crawl." Asriel raised a eyebrow "Why would it?" Jedrick chuckled "Well for one you miss Adelram using his surgical skills and gifts to torment people. He is really good at it. Makes me even jealous a little." Jedrick then grumbled under his breath "Bloody cheater."

Asriel began thinking a question dawning on his mind "So how has the house of daemons changed? As I left and I saw Astartes whipping chained people many were enjoying it though." Jedrick then seemed to be lost in thought he spoke after a minute "Well they haven't changed much save being more fanatical. Now that the "rules" are more relaxed many Astartes actually hang around there now." Asriel scratched his head "I see. On them being more fanatical how much more fanatical?" Jedrick laughed "Well the stuff they do to minions of the false emperor on a raid oh boy even I get excited Asriel."

Asriel was thinking for a moment until he heard the rattling of chains a man and women wearing a prison neck collar and manacles. Charlie bought over the male slave to Jedrick and placed the female slave in front of him. Charlie chained their neck collar and Manacles to the floor. Jedrick smiled "Finally entertainment." Jedrick drew his combat knife and pulled the male slave forward he was crying in anguish. Jedrick held him close and slowly drew his combat knife down the slaves cheek he winced in pain. Jedrick then slowly jabbed his knife gently into the male's slave arm. He screamed.

Jedrick was humming as he was doing this. Jedrick spoke while he made a gentle incision in the slaves arm "So... the woman is yours Asriel. Think of it as a present from me and don't kill her! He gets upset when they die." Asriel looked at the woman she seemed content with her fate what did Jedrick expect Asriel to do exactly? Yet looking at her she was so frail, soft... Asriel walked towards her. Jedrick then smiled he said "Don't worry no one has touched her yet! I made sure Charlie got you a fresh one!" Asriel nodded he knelt down and edged towards her.

His nails turned into small talons, his eyes shifted into slits and his sclera turned black.

Asriel then held her chin his mind racing of what to do to her. He then bought one talon gently down her cheek. Her eyes dilated a little her mouth quivering. Jedrick gave a laugh "Wow you are pretty good at this!" Jedrick then drew his combat knife across the slaves arm again. Asriel could smell her pain and joy. Asriel heard Meliva echoing in his mind "More.... we need more..." Asriel hissed "Yes.. more.." he bought two fingers to the woman's arm and drew his talon across her arm she screamed.

Asriel then pierced his talon into the wound he made on her arm the slave woman screamed again. The woman started to thrash about. Asriel then looked over to Jedrick he saw he jabbed his combat knife deeper into his slaves arm he saw the man was crying. Frothing from the mouth. Charlie then interjected "My lord.. the slave does not se-" Jedrick flicked his head towards charlie "Don't worry... he won't die."

Asriel could hear Charlie sighing, Asriel then looked towards the chained woman she crumpled to the ground drooling. Asriel then felt Meliva grating at the back of his mind "Don't stop! More! We need more!" Asriel nodded he felt it as well the hunger the need to inflict pain and suffering. He moved towards the woman and held up her arm, Asriel licked his teeth he could feel his teeth shifting into fangs. He bit her arm drawing blood. The slave started to scream.

That scream that noise Asriel heard it was the right kind of sound the same sound he heard when entering Jedrick's abode it was the right pitch. Her blood he could taste her agony, her torment. He then let go. Asriel turned his gaze to Jedrick he gave a whistle "Asriel are you sure you haven't done something like this before?" Asriel could see the slave Jedrick was holding was going limp. His soul fire expiring, fluttering away until nothing.

Jedrick then looked down he cursed and dropped the slave. He sat up right again and looked towards Charlie "Get some people to clean this guy up! Quickly!" Charlie ran off.

Asriel then looked at his slave again the horror in her eyes the longing, the ache Asriel smiled. He stood up and sat back on the chair and relaxed. Charlie then gave a clap a chained slave wobbled forward holding wine and glasses on a platter. Jedrick handed Asriel a glass and poured the white liquid into the glass he also poured one for himself.

Jedrick said "It is cold aged wine, it has been modified by Amethyst. She is quite the savant at making drinks actually. Shame she is a shut in now." Asriel was surprised she was quite a jolly person Asriel recalled "What do you mean shut in?" Said Asriel. Jedrick shrugged "You can ask her yourself or ask our lord." Asriel simply nodded then Jedrick leaned in close to Asriel completely serious which was odd to Asriel he said "Asriel.... how did you do that?" Asriel blinked his eyes turning to normal he mumbled "I just did what came to me. Did I do something wrong?" Charlie laughed "No Asriel what you did was masterful. Now what you did with your claws what part exactly did you hit? To get that reaction? All of mine scream then... well die.. then he gets mad." Asriel then looked at the female slave she was on the floor trying to rush forward in her chains trying to reach him begging for him to do it again. She just about reached the chair but was off a few inches.

Jedrick shook his head "You must have some kind of technique. Perhaps the neverborn in your head is giving you the edge." Jedrick sat back drinking his wine contemplating "If he saw that he would be jealous and would be bothering you non stop on how you did it." Asriel drank the wine It was strong, it's taste burned his throat and then he felt a cool. Asriel then heard several people coming over he saw they were unchaining the dead slave and carrying him away. Charlie was then pointing for some people to clean the area where Jedrick killed him.
Asriel turned to Jedrick "Why are you having them clean up? Also what is the problem with you killing him?" Jedrick drank some wine and grumbled "It's nothing don't worry about it."

Then Asriel heard the twins doors opened suddenly the bedlam of hedonism grew silent. Asriel saw a pink robed Astartes walk forward his backpack and arms adorned with fetishes, manacles waving from his waist and a censer was also bellowing with each movement. Asriel also caught the gleam of surgical tools around his belt and leather straps were swaying from various parts of his armour. His helmet also had horns.

The Astartes stopped in front of Jedrick he spoke Asriel recognized his voice "I came here as soon as you told me you found him." The Astartes looked at the chained female then to Jedrick "I see you are filling his mind with filth like the rest of your servants." Jedrick shrugged "Hey he is enjoying though, I have seen you do worse." said Jedrick the astartes turned towards Asriel. Asriel gulped. The Astartes walked towards him he touched his head like a father touching the head of a son. He then looked at the chained woman he said "You are enjoying that aren't you?" Asriel could feel the pressure from his hand. Asriel nodded weakly.

The Astartes flatly said "I see." his blue eye lenses flashed then the female slave was consumed in purple fire she was rolling on the floor. Asriel could not tell if she was screaming in agony or pleasure he was entrapped by what was happening his heart going aflutter. She was burning for so long it went on for minutes. Many of the cultists were listening intently like they were hearing music out of her screams. Asriel saw her soul bleeding away dissipating into the warp. Then the flames fizzled and all that was left was ashes.

Jedrick sat up from his chair "Adelram, you have an unfair advantage do you know that? Adelram simply chuckled, what happened next was that several cultists threw themselves on the ashes to breathe it up. Asriel stood up, he cast his gaze down "My lord." Adelram nodded "We are leaving now." Adelram moved to walk out and Asriel followed he stopped and bowed to Jedrick before leaving. He simply gave a gruff nod.
Asriel walked with Adelram in silence in the halls until they reached familiar doors. The doors simply slid open at Adelram's presence Asriel followed.

As they walked in Asriel looked around the room. It looked different it was more "full" He saw tons of books lining shelves, scrolls and parchments hanging from the walls. Censer balls hanging in the room at various points releasing a sweet incense. Asriel walked into the middle of the room breathing everything in. The room felt more "alive" also.

Adelram walked over to Asriel, Asriel saw Adelram striding towards him Asriel looked at him more carefully this time he saw his soul coiling glowing with a bright pink light it drew Asriel in until Adelram broke his thoughts. Adelram spoke as always his voice not betraying his feelings "So you are well?" Asriel furrowed his brow and ignored him for the moment he walked to the chair and sat down. Asriel responded "I think I am well."

Adelram sat next to Asriel, Asriel then put his feet up on the chair and burrowed his face into his legs he muffled a sound Adelram could pick it up barely "Thank you." Adelram chuckled "Think nothing of it. Yet.. you act different." Asriel looked up directly at Adelram "Do I? I haven't noticed myself." Adelram spoke flatly "I have, I could see your killing intent clearly in Jedrick's abode and your joy of torturing someone."
Asriel shrugged "I felt like killing people all day actually."

Adelram sat back "Most likely the influence of the neverborn. Still about a year ago... what happened to you in the bottom of that church?" That was the first thing that surprised Asriel he realized again it's been a year or even more since then Asriel thought of his master question his anger growing slightly for some reason. "I don't want to talk about it." Adelram responded "I want to talk about it and you will tell me." Adelram thought he heard a slight growl from Asriel it was unnatural.

Asriel started to speak but in twin voices "We did things together, Things w- I would like to forget. She did things and I begged her to do it in even greater amounts and she did and I hated myself for it yet I enjoyed it all the same. Yet at the same time I miss it." Adelram squinted his eyes under his helmet "You refer to Meliva?" Asriel hissed "Yes." Adelram looked at his servant he saw his black nails lengthening into talons.
Adelram sighed "Do you wish to know how the ship changed this past year?"

Adelram saw that his nails were returning to normal Asriel nodded his voice normal again "Yes I would like to know. Jedrick has gave me a rather brief overview on some of the changes" Adelram leaned back in the chair "Well since I accepted my powers, we hit several weaker worlds crossed blades with members of space marine chapters." He held up three fingers "Some dark angels, ultramarines and white scars." Asriel perked up "So what happened when you fought them" Adelram sighed "It would be too long to explain three wars Asriel. Yet when we did fight them as time went on using my powers to scatter them aside was... enjoyable too enjoyable." Asriel's eyes lit up at his response "What's wrong with doing something you enjoy?"

Adelram relaxed in the chair thinking "Well I have to remain focused to lead the warband, now one of the greater changes is that majority of the people living on the ship have accepted slaanesh. Even I. Still we have recruited more Astartes to our warband due to our infamy or torturing those captures during those three wars. We also had a group of Kakophoni join us." Asriel raised his eyebrow "What are Kakophoni?" Adelram gave a heavy sigh "You will see."

Asriel then breathed in the air of the room and smiled "The ship smells more sweet." Adelram place his arm on the arm rest of the chair and leaned on his fist "I am sure you can also detect the presence or influence on the ship can't you?" Asriel nodded "Yes I feel like something or someone is watching at times. I also can sometimes see a giant flame within people... I assume it's their souls." Adelram responded "Perhaps sharing your body with the neverborn has given you witch sight. Meliva can use the powers of a psyker after all being a greater shard" Asriel smiled "So given time I could do what you can?" Adelram sat up again and leaned in the chair "With time."

Asriel began thinking again one question still plaguing him "Why did you save me? I saw you at moments in my dreams flicking in and out of the darkness guiding me back." Adelram shrugged "I don't know gave up trying to find the answer of why I care. Yet I do perhaps it's the ingrained need for an Astartes to seek comrades or seeking someone to trust I cannot say."

Asriel dropped his legs down and leaned back "So how are you finding your powers?" Adelram flexed his hand eldritch flame dancing around it "I am getting used to it after embracing it many of the Astartes following me fear me even more since now I can obliterate their minds and their bodies. Also was in the middle of plans... when you awoke"

Asriel started to think again "So my lor-" Adelram raised his hand "We are in private company you can refer me to Adelram." Asriel furrowed his brows "I can't do that my lord also what were you planning?" Adelram then gave his classic chuckle "I am planning a raid of course."

Asriel sat there looking at Adelram, he seemed a lot more relaxed compared to before he also gave off a nice scent also. He began salivating, Asriel suddenly felt her pressing at his mind "Why don't you do it? His soul is bright..." He should Asriel opened his mouth slightly. Then bit down his lip hard drawing blood "not him" he said to himself. Adelram then looked at him simply watching "You need to learn to control yourself." Said Adelram. Asriel snapped out of his trance "I... don't know. I meant nothing by it."
Adelram scoffed he then opened up a pouch around his waist and drew out a small white cloth. He dabbed it gently on his lips he then said "You knew what you were doing please don't follow that thought I don't wish to kill you after everything that happened."
Asriel then grabbed the cloth, Adelram sat back in his old position. As Asriel was holding the cloth to his lip he felt a tingle the wound vanishing. Asriel then stuffed the white cloth into his pocket.

Asriel sat up from the chair and stretched. Asriel then heard several loud bangs on the door, Adelram got up and went to his desk he pressed a button. Asriel saw an Astartes stride into the room. Asriel recognized him he spoke in a hurry "My Lord.. I looked all over the ship I canno-" Adelram held up a hand "Ivan, Jedrick found him first and he is here." Adelram gestured towards Asriel.

Asriel saw Ivan's features relax just for a moment he saw a black tongue flicking out. Ivan breathed out a sigh of relief "I see.. so how are you Asriel?" Asriel looked at Ivan for some reason he felt a small tinge of hate. Was it his emotions or Meliva's? He could not tell. Asriel gave a small bow "I am well and I thank you for looking after me."

Ivan gave a small cough he said "That is no problem child, I was just doing what I could at Adelram's behest." Adelram gave a small laugh "Yes.. at my behest.." Asriel saw Ivan shift somewhat.

Adelram folded his arms "Now if that's all that you wanted to say.." Ivan turned to leave Asriel interjected " Apostle Ivan, Please Wait." Ivan stopped he looked at Asriel "What is it?" Asriel flexed his hands and ground his teeth he was speaking in his voice and Meliva's "I wish to talk to Isira."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/19 22:37:44


Post by: lliu


Nice. Let's see what happened to Isira lol.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/19 22:52:38


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice. Let's see what happened to Isira lol.


Which shall be coming soon! She is a rather strange woman to say the least, pining for a widow then her boy when he is all grown up.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/20 00:55:18


Post by: shinros


Chapter 12



Asriel was pacing his room thinking, he was waiting for Isira she knew his mother and since it's likely she lead the cult contingent on Athor she might know the name of "him". Asriel shut his eyes perhaps he should ask her? Asriel called to Meliva "Meliva? I wish to speak with you." Asriel then felt a squirming in his chest it was not painful it was slightly euphoric, Asriel heard a voice in his mind "What is it? Why do you call me?" Asriel clenched his hands together "That man who ordered the death of mother do you know who he is?" Asriel felt Meliva moving again for some reason he felt or knew that she was smiling "I do.. but why should I tell you? What will you give me.." Asriel grit his teeth "What do you want?" said Asriel.

Asriel felt Meliva uncoiling, Asriel felt a slight headache building Asriel could hear Meliva clearly "Give me more control of your body and I will tell you." Asriel sighed "You know my answer on that." Asriel then felt Meliva going silent the sensation vanishing. Asriel muttered "I should of guessed that would be her response." Asriel then heard a soft knock on his door. His room door then slid open.

It was Isira, Asriel nodded and greeted her yet he felt on edge she was partly to blame for what occurred "Isira, thank you for coming I have questions." Asriel looked at Isira's face it was completely neutral Asriel could not even guess what she was thinking. Asriel gestured for her to sit down, Isira sat slowly on the edge of his bed. Isira looked to him she said gently "The teacher told me you wished to see me. Why?"
Asriel folded his arms "You knew my mother, you drew her into your cult but she could not take the last step." Isira face remained how it was, yet Asriel could notice her breathing changed just slightly most normal people would not pick up on that. Yet he was no longer "normal". Isira denied it "I have no idea what you are talking about Asriel." Asriel ground his teeth in annoyance thinking why she would deflect and deny. Asriel tried to speak calmly "Meliva showed me things Isira I know what happened."

Isira crossed her legs she made a mocking grin "Are you sure? Perhaps the neverborn is lying to you. To wear you down, you should not listen to her you know." Asriel was growing angry he walked towards her and grabbed her face tightly she grit her teeth and grabbed his hands trying to pull them away. She tried a few more times and she gave up. Isira pouted "Why are you doing this? Or perhaps you want something else?" Asriel detected her breathing was increasing.

Asriel felt the change coming again a back of his mind did think about it but when he thinks of that scene of his mother. The anger comes back and his only lead is being troublesome Asriel's black nails slowly changed into talons and he could almost feel a small horn exiting his forehead. Asriel breathed gently he spoke in twin voices "You knew me as a boy. That kiss on my cheek that spell to make me forget." Isira smile did not leave her face "That's impossible look at me if I did meet you as a boy I would be far older. As I said the neverborn is playing tricks on you."

Isira then bought her hand to his cheek stroking gently "You sharing your body with that holy being you look far more beautiful do you know that?" Asriel squinted his eyes she is trying to change the subject then a thought occurred to him. Asriel opened his mouth slightly his eyes shifted into slits. He quickly licked Isira on the cheek and then tasted thinking no. He needs more than that. He could see she was shocked and a sense of longing and ache was beginning to appear in her eyes.

He then kissed her before she could even say a word. Asriel then leaned back and let go of her face thinking. Asriel could see she was in shock Asriel said "You are at least 250 years old." Asriel then licked his lips thinking "No.. 300 at least." Asriel could see Isira walls of defense crumbling until she stood up and approached him. She smiled "So that's what you wanted? It's not good to do something like that when someone's guard is down."

She then reached forward with her hand Asriel grabbed her wrist tightly she winced Asriel shouted "Enough with your lies!" Asriel squeezed he could see Isira gritting her teeth in pain. When he saw her face in pain he remembered Adelram's words control, he needed control. He slowly let go taking deep breaths.

Asriel then walked to his bed and sat down he cast his head down "Isira tell me.. I wish to kill the man who killed her so please..." Asriel then looked up at her.

Asriel noted her face twitched slightly she looked away slightly "She was to be mine... yet.." Asriel heard those words leave her lips he started to grind his teeth again "Yet what?" Isira then looked to Asriel, Asriel looked into her eyes did he see sadness? Regret? He was not sure.

Isira muttered "In my vision if she took the final step, she would of bought you into our gatherings you would of then be taken by Adelram and turned into Astartes." Asriel was silent for a moment then he laughed harshly "After that you would have my mother all to yourself!" Isira shook her head she sat down next to him and reached over to touch Asriel on the cheek "I regret what happened."

Asriel felt her hand on his cheek she was stroking it gently, Asriel felt his teeth changing with her action. Her hand on his cheek trying to comfort him, trying to show it was not her fault she is just making him want to pluck her eyes out. Asriel took another breath to calm himself he said "If you truly regret what happened you must know of the man who ordered her death. I imagine he investigated your group after my mother gave him information. He had a dangling necklace with an I on it."

Isira removed her hand her face was shifting to shock "You know that much of the inquisitor who hounded us? He caused us to go to ground. Yet teacher told me your mother running away was "necessary" It had to happen." Asriel turned what Isira just said in his mind so he was an inquisitor he knew of the inquisition. Parents used them to scare the children at night to behave. That they would take them away if they did not say their evening prayers.

Asriel chuckled "So he was an inquisitor.. what else do you know of him?" Isira then placed her hand on her chin thinking "I know of his name nothing else, we moved to the lower levels. He had several of his retinue hound us but we went silent for years. Which caused him to decide to put Athor on watch. Of course that did not help when we made our move." Isira leaned back smiling "So you are planning revenge then? These questions and you calling me here and your acts.."

Asriel sighed "Yes I am I will kill him when I find him again." Isira sat forward and nodded "His name is Belaris Fane." Asriel turned that name in his head he then tried to reach for his Journal. Then he recalled he did not have it so much happened he forgot about it. He had to commit it to memory engrave it into his mind. As Asriel was thinking he heard another knock on his door. Another woman came through.

Asriel recognized her a small sense of happiness lined his features. Asriel said "Amethyst? It's you! It's been..." Amethyst made her standard smile yet it faded when he saw Isira sitting on his bed her face screwed in disgust "What is she doing out of her fun house?" Isira laughed "Don't seek to insult me when the touch of our god is finally spreading throughout the ship. Almost everyone is in on the "fun" now." Isira sat up and looked at Asriel her features for some reason turned gentle "We could discuss more of our business later." Asriel nodded at least he had a name.

Isira then walked out of his room not even sparing Amethyst a glance. Amethyst curled her lip into disgust. She then looked to Asriel again and her smile returned to her face. She walked over to his desk and turned the chair towards him. She sat down and crossed her legs she said "I heard you woke up. I assume that thing that's inside you is gone?"

Asriel scratched the back of his head "It's not gone it's still there, I assume we are "partners" for life." Asriel saw that Amethyst smile vanished sadness lined her features. Asriel saw a small amount of tears building in her eyes he was confused "Why are you sad? What's the matter?" Amethyst lips twitched slightly she wiped her eyes "The fact it does not bother you that you are sharing a body with it means you changed. I heard what you did with Jedrick I just thought it was baseless rumors I hoped.." Asriel blinked "You hoped what?"

Amethyst sighed "That you would still be you. Even our Lord has changed surrounding himself with even more witches." She then gave a sad laugh "Even Agoston was found to be a witch I heard powers like that can awaken anytime. Yet our lord was not upset he was happy even. He barely even sees me anymore..." Asriel felt the need to say something yet remained silent Amethyst continued "Now I just stay in my room focusing on my research. Everything on this ship is changing for the worse."Asriel recalled Jedrick words that she now remains in her room majority of the time.

Asriel looked down he did not know what to say he knows full well how the ship has changed yet he could not help but feel it was for the better. The silence went on the room for a minute when Asriel finally looked up Amethyst was in tears her tears were dripping down on to the floor. Amethyst then bit her lip "The fact you said nothing shows you have truly changed. Our lord used to be a wonderful Doctor and Scientist and now?" She then got up and strode out of his room not saying a word.

Asriel was still silent sitting on his bed. He then got up and walked over to where Amethyst was sitting he bent down and rubbed his finger on the tiny puddle of tears. Asriel gently put his finger in his mouth. In that instant he felt his body changing he tasted her pain, her loss her agony at everyone she knew being dragged down by the dark prince. Yet he could not feel sadness in that moment Asriel actually smiled.
Asriel felt Meliva surfacing she was also pleased "You want to see her join in worship? I do as well she is not completely innocent her fall will still be brilliant..." Asriel breathed "It would be nice to see.."

Jedrick was sitting in his chair musing on the recent announcement of another raid he could feel the excitement building within him. As he was thinking he saw the doors of his abode slide open. A bald astartes with porcelain skin with a purple hue came striding in he also bore the brand of slaanesh on his forehead. His face was stuck in a mocking grin and a long flowing pink ribbon was swaying as walked.

He also wore manacles and long lines of shining leather around his waist, Jedrick saw he was also dragging in several slaves in with his bare arm with a pierced chain swaying each time he dragged the slaves. He walked over to the walls and chained them in place. Yet he was looking around searching for something he then walked in Jedrick's direction and stopped. He knelt down on the ground and sniffed. He looked up at him and stood up. Finally he sat down next to Jedrick.

His tongue flicked out "I bought more slaves Jedrick. I have taken the rest of our Tithe from the lower levels." Jedrick nodded "You are quite good at gathering them alive aren't you Sebastian?" Sebastian scoffed "Well yes I am unlike some people." Jedrick grumbled when he said that.

Sebastian leaned back "I heard the man awoke." Jedrick nodded "He did he was quite taken with the changes of the ship. He was happy actually." Sebastian chuckled "Is that him or the neverborn thinking that?" Jedrick then sat back in the chair "Both if Ivan did this job right. He is marked by the way." Jedrick saw the surprise in Sebastian's eyes "Oh? Quite surprising actually." Jedrick smiled "Well if you saw what he did with the slave you could see why."

Sebastian's surprise vanished from his features "Oh yes, I did notice she was missing from the wall. Yet there is another one missing as well." Jedrick turned to Sebastian "Oh? Perhaps one of our servants killed them." Sebastian shook his head "They know better and none would shield them from killing one. Yet I caught the smell of a large amount of blood spilled around your chair Jedrick. I can smell it now."

Jedrick furrowed his brows "How can you smell? You don't even have a nose anymore." Sebastian tapped his skin "I feel and sense so much more considering how the dark prince has blessed me. Now I am sure you have no idea what happened to the missing slave right?"

Jedrick then turned away from Sebastian "I don't know anything about it." Sebastian hissed at Jedrick "You killed the slave didn't you.." Jedrick sighed "By accident. Anyway Adelram reduced one to ashes with his "magic" it was quite a spectacle actually." Sebastian creased his brow "Adelram allowed me to replace that one.. you know the rules each house can take a tithe of slaves to do with what they will after each raid. No more no less."

Jedrick grunted "It's one dead slave, plus Adelram just announced we are going on another raid he can be replaced." Sebastian then relaxed a little "Very well I shall drop it. Has he said anything about what planet we are targeting?" Jedrick shrugged "A shrine world. He also somehow found out it's also being raided by dark eldar." Jedrick could see Sebastian growing excited with the mention of dark eldar it seemed he forgot about the dead slave.

Sebastian's eyes grew wide "I can't wait, reunite some eldar with the god they made and perhaps defiling some temples along the way." Jedrick nodded "Aye I can't wait either."

Asriel stood in front of Adelram's doors he knocked, the lights as always turned green and the doors slid open. As Asriel walked in he saw Adelram at his desk Asriel sat in front of him, how many times now has he done this he wondered? Adelram finally looked up "We are approaching the planet soon I wanted to give you something before we started the sortie." Adelram reached down to a drawer and pulled something out and placed it in front of Asriel.

He recognized it yet it looked a little different. The lock was shaped in a daemonette head and when he touched the leather it almost felt like skin. Puzzlement lined Asriel's features, Adelram then shrugged "It changed by itself I made sure to record the process perhaps it was the things you wrote in there that caused the change."

Asriel made a smile "Thank you can't wait to use it." Of course Asriel opened it up on a new page right away and wrote down his name in big letters Belaris Fane. Adelram watched him write "Who's name are you writing down?" Asriel responded "The man I will kill when I get the chance." Asriel then shut his book and placed it on his lap. Adelram nodded "I have also called you here for another reason." Asriel was surprised "Oh? What do you wish of me?"
Adelram leaned back in his chair "I ordered amethyst to come down with us her skills might be needed. I want you to guard her while she does her work, you are quite capable now considering your state." Asriel was confused he had a feeling there was more to it he put the question to his lord "Why? what reason do you want Amethyst down on the planet? Also you want me to guard her?" At that moment he could hear Meliva laughter echoing in the back of his mind.

Adelram then stood up and placed his hand on his head he chuckled "It's been so long, there you are doing it again.." Adelram then leaned down "Do this for me guard her that's all I ask." Asriel smiled "Of course I will do it." Adelram then stood back up "Good we are close to orbit, Ivan's cloaking rituals will start soon you will be also outfitted at the docking area." Adelram then went to his desk and pushed a button the lights within the room flashed to red. Asriel looked around surprise "Wait.. We are going now!?" Adelram nodded "Indeed we are.
You will walk me." Adelram stepped out to leave, Asriel followed. As they made their way out Asriel saw pink and black robed people kneeling at the door.

The one in the front looked up "We are ready my lord." Asriel recognized the voice a voice he was not all to happy to hear. Adelram responded "Very well Agoston." Adelram then gestured for everyone to rise they all did so in a smooth motion. They then formed a line against the wall to let Adelram walk forward as he passed each robed acolyte they fell in behind him. Asriel could tell they were "different" now as he stood thinking he eventually lost sight of Adelram. In shock Asriel rushed forward of course when he reached the middle of the pack he felt himself being held back. Someone grabbed him on the shoulder.
Asriel turned towards the person holding his shoulder his teeth shifting at the motion as he looked at the man. He looked how he remembered from a year ago save the fact he was wearing a silver earring dangling from his right ear he also had a tattoo under his left eye. Asriel hissed "Let me go Agoston." Agoston shook his head "You are his servant we all walk behind him. You should learn that "number". Asriel's right eye twitched when he said that he felt himself changing further Asriel leaned in close to Agoston "Watch what you say..." Agoston chuckled "I should say that to you considering I am his most favored." Asriel cocked his head to one side and smiled "Perhaps we should test that then?" Agoston shrugged "I know it to be true go on try it at the end of the day all you are to him is a glorified pet. A leashed dog he pets and praises."

At his words thoughts of killing him crossed his mind he felt his eyes changing again Asriel let out a low snarl but he remembered Adelram's words control, don't do something stupid. Asriel calmed himself his nails, teeth and eyes returning to normal. Agoston simply smiled "See a dog I am his acolyte there is the difference." Agoston then briskly walked forward.
Asriel sighed and followed within the group. They eventually reached the docking area it was a lot more full compared to the time when they were preparing for Barbos. Asriel did note there were also a lot more Astartes than he remembered. Adelram walked over to the armoury and gestured for Asriel. Asriel looked around and saw all the equipment lining the walls. Adelram then knelt down to a black chest in the corner and flicked the lock he turned to Asriel "I had gear prepared for your awakening plus if you are to protect Amethyst you would need wargear." Adelram then walked away.

Asriel opened the chest he found a two handed broadsword and some armour mixed with robes. Asriel looked at the blade there was strange runes carved into the blade. Holding the blade Asriel felt a small heat building in his hands. Asriel looked in the chest again there were also some leather gloves that went up the arm as well. Asriel touched the armour it felt a lot more dense compared to the gear he received a year ago. Asriel outfitted himself all the gear fit on easily like it was exactly made for his size. He then hooked the blade to his back and walked out of the Armoury.

He looked around searching for Adelram he saw him talking to Amethyst Agoston was with him.

Asriel walked over trying to ignore Agoston's presence, he stood next to Adelram he saw Amethyst was clearly nervous. She looked to the ground as she spoke "I see so I will be on the ground." Adelram nodded "This will be a larger scale raid so some specialists have to be on the ground you will be working along with the artificers in a forward camp. It will be a spot our forces can fall back to." Amethyst still looked like she was about to break at any moment.
Asriel walked forward and placed his hand on her shoulder he tried to smile "Don't worry I will be there." Amethyst looked up at him she gave a weak smile. Asriel then heard stomping then as the stomping got closer he heard a song a dirge of noise. Asriel looked in the direction it was coming from he saw Astartes lurching out of the darkness they had strange guns, their armour was in a mix of vivid colours and some of the Astartes seemed to have replaced their mouths with speakers.

They approached Adelram, Asriel saw that Agoston tried to divert his gaze from them. As they came forward he noticed Adelram sighed. What Asriel assumed to be the leader stepped forward he had green eyes and short cropped white hair his mouth was a larger speaker. As he spoke a deluge of sound and music came through. Yet for some reason Asriel could understand it like he got the sense of the words from the sound from each note.
Adelram sighed again "What is it Marius what do your Kakophoni want? I assume Jedrick gave you my orders?" Marius responded with even more noise. Adelram sagged his shoulders "You are aware I cannot understand you." Asriel then interjected "He says his Kakophoni are ready to sing the song of slaanesh to the dark eldar and the minions of the false emperor." The deluge stopped and Marius looked at Asriel so did Agoston and Adelram.

Adelram was first to speak "You can understand him? Interesting.. only Sebastian and Jedrick seem to be able to talk to them I was quite surprised Ivan could not either." Asriel nodded "It's strange out of the... "song" it's like they form words." Marius then released another sound and then a long dirge of high screeches. Agoston and Amethyst covered their ears.

Adelram looked to Marius then to Asriel "What did he say?" Asriel put his hand to his chin "He said that he is truly happy another can hear the song it was right to join this warband." Adelram then turned to Marius "Is that all you wanted to say?" Marius then nodded and walked away to prepare along with the rest of the Kakophoni.

Adelram put his hand to his chin thinking muttering something he then shrugged and walked up to the view screen to explain the strategy of the raid. The talking, prayers and weapon checking stopped they all looked up to Adelram. Adelram pressed a button on the screen he announced "This is the shrine world of Cortova within the gothic sector." Adelram then pressed another button to zoom into the city "Right now an order Militant of the sisters of battle and the black templars are engaged with a Dark eldar raiding host." Adelram pressed several buttons on the screen "From the information I gleaned from the warp at this moment the city is somewhat divided in terms of control. The geometry of the shrine city is a circle so we will land at the south point of the city. Adelram gestured to the area "it not contested by either side at the moment. We will push at two flanks."

Jedrick then raised his axe and shouted "I want the black templars! I will also crush the sisters of battle." Adelram nodded "So you will focus on the right flank considering the combined power of the Sisters of battle and the black templars. The Kakophoni will also be with you on that flank. Along with the havocs" Adelram looked to Marius and Jedrick they both nodded. "Ivan and I will look to the left and try to deal with the eldar." Adelram scanned the room he saw Ivan and his followers in the corner he gave him a curt nod. Ivan returned the gesture.

Adelram then pressed another button displaying a large building "This place will be our main launching point and main base of operations it is abandoned temple. To the false emperor." As adelram mentioned this many with the crowd jeered he quietened them down "Of course when we get there we might have to do a little bit of "renovation". Everyone has their orders the main force facing the black templars and sisters will go down first!"
Asriel looked as Jedrick and members of the house of warriors left on Thunderhawks. Adelram then walked over to Asriel he said "We will be the last to go." Asriel then saw Ivan, Isira , Astartes and cultists from the house of daemons also walking over. Ivan approached Adelram, Asriel could see that Ivan wanted to say something. It seemed Adelram also noticed this Ivan was about to speak but Adelram interrupted "I know what you are going to say we don't have the forces to take all of them on. Relax Ivan I have everything under control." Ivan then closed his mouth mumbling he then said "Very well my lord."
Asriel waited for about 20 minutes eventually the docking bay hall emptied and they finally got on the Thunderhawk. Asriel felt the Thunderhawk moving it was a lot more rough than the time he took it to Barbos. After a few minutes they landed and the bay doors opened Asriel heard gunfire and shouts. Adelram stepped out he turned to Amethyst and Agoston "Both of you will stay here until I say it's safe to leave." Both nodded, Adelram then turned to Asriel "You are with me." Asriel nodded and followed.
As he stepped out with Adelram and Ivan he saw people in pitched battle with PDF and sisters of battle, Astartes of the emperor children and Cultists were in cover shooting. Adelram walked pass ignoring the cover Asriel followed, Asriel saw a sister of battle aiming at Adelram with her bolter she fired and Adelram simply raised his hand and the bolt shattered on a invisible shield.

Adelram then drew his sword and it erupted with purple fire Asriel started to feel the air vibrate, reality buckling, changing. Adelram then planted his sword into the ground and fire erupted forward in a wave incinerating sisters of battle and PDF soldiers none were spared. Adelram then removed his sword from the ground. He pointed his sword forward "Push forward! Kill all who get in our way! Form a perimeter!" Adelram gave a mocking laugh he then shouted "Forward! Children of the Emperor! Death to His foes!; For the Emperor!" All the Astartes laughed and yelled the same line.

Cultists and Astartes rushed forward. Asriel saw Jedrick walk past he stopped in front of Adelram he then laughed "Aye! Well we better get to our task then!" Adelram nodded and walked towards the Thunderhawk. Asriel then saw Jedrick and his forces rushing off to the right flank. Asriel turned and followed Adelram.

They were back in the thunderhawk Agoston was still standing there and Amethyst was sitting down hands together shaking. Adelram turned to Agoston "You and the other Acolytes will prepare the temple." Agoston bowed and hurried out of the Thunderhawk with the rest of the Acolytes.

Adelram then walked up to Amethyst and held up her chin "Are you afraid?" Asriel saw Amethyst was trying to put on a brave face she simple shook her head. Adelram then let go and turned away from her "It will be some time before you are put to work along with the rest of the artificers and doctors and now we will start bringing down the vehicles and armoured support."

Amethyst finally broke her silence "My lord am I truly necessary?" Adelram chuckled "You are indeed necessary Amethyst..."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/20 23:37:49


Post by: shinros


Chapter 13

Asriel stood in the hall looking at all the injured cultists being tended and Artificers maintaining the Astartes gear. He wondered how many churches would a city need? These days he could not understand people worshiping something that cannot hear them or care for them. The church they were in was captured and used as a forward base it was placed supposedly near the dark eldar's control area. It has been a few days since they made landfall. from what Adelram has told him right now it's stalemate. The dark eldar have not shown their faces yet Adelram and Ivan are scouring their control zone and the border of the possible dark eldar control zone for days. Adelram did note they may not even control a section of the city but just have one small hidden main base. Adelram noted that dark eldar do quick attacks capturing as many slaves as possible and then leaving they prefer not to get into a pitched battle.

Still when they sent scouting parties in that area they just vanish without a word. Some come back bloodied with stories of black shapes hounding them. Asriel looked to Amethyst working on a cultist stitching up his wounds.

She wiped some sweat off her brow she still seemed on edge. Another thought was crossing Asriel's mind. Something was bothering Asriel what Adelram said before they made landfall. What is he planning? It's rather clear they don't have enough forces since it's been a stalemate for so long and one mistake can easily make them lose their advantage. Asriel simply sighed.

Then in that moment Asriel felt something the air changed, Asriel then felt Meliva moving "They are coming... they are so close... they are here..." Asriel drew his sword and looked around. Of course many looked at him in confusion when he did so a cultist walked up to him scratching his head "What's got you so on edge?" Asriel looked at him he felt his eyes changing and then he was smiling "The dark eldar are here." The cultists eyes went wide "Where!?" he began looking around searching. As he said this black shapes came bursting out of the windows gunning down any cultists caught unaware.

Asriel heard screaming from the door most likely the guards being killed. Asriel flicked his head to the windows he flashed a smile full fangs and charged a dark eldar that was near the window it turned to fire Asriel felt his blood pumping his muscles tightening he stepped to the side as the dark eldar pulled the trigger. Asriel then stepped in close and plunged his sword into the dark eldar's gut he heard the rasp as he did so. He plunged the sword further and twisted. The dark eldar yelped and crumpled on the sword Asriel then removed the blade xeno's blood spilling onto the ground.

Asriel looked around the dark eldar were slaughtering them, he did note they seemed to be leaving some alive. Then the doors at the front of the church flew open. Asriel saw a female eldar striding forward she looked to be wearing a leather suit and was wielding a whip and a sword. She had long flowing purple hair she gave Asriel a mocking grin. Asriel looked to Amethyst her head was down and she was surrounded with several other non-combatants whimpering as Asriel turned to the female dark eldar realization dawned his features Asriel breathed "My lord how clever of you..." Asriel then charged the female sword raised high. The female dark eldar raised her blade, Asriel struck first, the dark eldar casually turned the strike aside as she did so she flipped her blade to it's pommel and smashed it into Asriel's face.

Asriel crashed to the ground he felt Meliva rising "Let me kill her.. I will tear her to pieces slowly and guzzle on her blood..." Asriel held his hand to his face the pain slowly vanishing Asriel chuckled "Not yet Meliva patience we are the bait...." Asriel then saw the female dark eldar standing over him and she rose her fist and brought it down on his face in that moment darkness consumed him.

Jedrick was on the front lines clashing with a black templar as always they screamed for the emperor and shouted various curses. How they were traitors, scum and unworthy of life. The black templar raised his sword to strike he bought his sword down for a overhead slash, Jedrick dodged to the right. Jedrick bought his axe down to strike the black templar parried the blow. The black templar shouted "You will die here heretic!" Jedrick ignored him and kept fighting the black templar moved to make another strike and always Jedrick waited at the last moment he turned away the strike with his combat knife and made a quick motion with his axe. Jedrick removed the black templars sword wielding hand in one motion, Jedrick heard a grunt and a gnashing of teeth from the black templar Jedrick hacked off his other arm.

The black templar was trying very hard not to scream, something Jedrick found annoying the sisters of battle and black templars don't die like other dogs of the false emperor. It's either merely a grunt or another curse. There was not much joy in killing them the black templar stood there with both arms missing he gave another shout and charged at Jedrick "Death to the foes of the emperor!" Jedrick sighed as the black templar rushed at him. Jedrick brought up his axe to make a slash towards his head as the black templar came towards him he made a small side step and took off his head in one swipe.

Jedrick then looked around he saw the Kakophoni and Marius blasting reverberating sounds reducing pdf to paste. Yet he also saw cultists being torn apart by black templars and Astartes from his side being melted from the sisters of battle melta weapons. The black templars are covering the sisters while they got to work with their deadly weapons. It's been a stalemate so far but their side was being bled dry.

Jedrick cursed the dark eldar have not been dealt with according to report from Adelram they were like shadows attacking at certain weak points and they had no idea when the attacks occur. As Jedrick was thinking he felt a rumble and out of the streets of the city two tanks came lumbering forward a predator from the black templars mounted with lascannons and a sisters of battle immolator mounted with multi-melta weaponry.

Jedrick ground his teeth in anger he wondered what reason did Adelram pick this planet? He must of knew the capabilities of the forces. Jedrick then heard his com come to life it was Sebastian "We cannot win here we must fall back."Jedrick breathed he was seething he hates retreating yet Sebastian was speaking wisdom. He opened his com channels to all squads "We are falling back now!" At that response there was a large amount of protest from various squad members Jedrick shouted "If you want to be melted down and incinerated feel free to stay but all those who have sense fall back!"

At that order he saw his forces edging back he shouted over to Marius "We are falling back Mairus!" He saw Marius turn to him a high screech came from his mouth Jedrick glowered "If you want to keep singing! You will fall back!" Marius fell silent he looked to the other Kakophoni and made a dirge of noise they turned around and ran back towards their main base.

Jedrick shouted into is com's again "Havocs will support those falling back try to keep to high ground as we move back!" Jedrick received an acknowledgement with every order Jedrick's anger was intensifying. He turned and retreated.

Adelram stood with the rhino's preparing to leave he closed his eyes he was feeling out the tides of the warp he felt Asriel moving he was the brightest out of his servants. He felt his soul expanding and shrinking straining on the edge to release itself. He could be easily tracked, he suddenly felt Ivan walking over to him. He opened his eyes and turned towards him "They are moving I can feel it." Ivan raised an eyebrow "You can tell exactly where they are going?" Adelram nodded "Asriel is like an inferno, sharing his body with the neverborn helps quite a bit he is so loyal trying to maintain control." Adelram could see Ivan was concerned "What is it Ivan? Speak."

Ivan licked his lips with his black snake like tongue "I have received word that Jedrick and his forces are falling back is this part of your plan?" Adelram was silent for a moment thinking he eyed Ivan his blue eye lenses shimmering with power "Indeed it is, also is Isira and her people in position?" Ivan gave a nod "Isira and her people will put their skills to work on the enemy."

Adelram then turned from Ivan he turned his head back slightly "Ivan get Silas and his raptors scouting forward we are pressing into the dark eldar's territory." Ivan gave a swift bow and turned away to relay orders.

Adelram smiled he muttered to himself "Everything is moving in the right direction.."

Sargent Belov of the the PDF of Cortva readied his weapons along with his squad they were making another sweep for survivors since pushing back the heretics he and his squad received orders to finally push out. Belov turned to Maric his second in command "We are making another sweep of the churches hopefully some have holed up and have likely survived this madness." Maric nodded "Perhaps we might kill some heretics along the way?" Belov smiled "Indeed we will teach the scum what it means to attack Cortva."

They ran into the streets searching the churches, nothing was found save for dead or the dust of war and broken statues. They kept up the search until they approached the church of saint Alisa as they got close Belov made the sign of the Aquila. Each church had a story and a saint attached to it. Belov slowly approached the doors with two members on his side of the church doors. Maric stood at the other side with two other members they counted for 3 seconds and at once both open the doors of the church.

They pointed their lasguns and torches in the darkness, Belov always took point since he felt a leader must inspire the rest if the leader feared to step forward he has no right to be in the position to order anyone. The black templars and sisters of battle always rush forward without fear. How could he be any less than that? Yet it was inspiring watching them fight and drive the heretics back and he was glad to fight alongside them.

As they moved through the church all they heard was the creak of wooden floors. Belov heard muttering he made a hand sign for everyone to stop. His squad all froze, Belov listened for a few more moments the muttering continued he edged towards the noise. As he walked to the corner of the church his squad followed suit they came to a carpet at the back of the church. Belov lifted it up and found a large hatch, Belov then ordered for maric and two members from his squad to surrounded it.

Belov made a count with his fingers and then pulled the hatch open all focused guns down yet what he saw was people holding their hands up. Some wore clergy robes and others had plain civilian clothes. Belov breathed "Praise the emperor survivors.. Ok men! Help everyone out!" They began helping people out of the hatch then when it came to the last person. Belov pulled the person out it was a woman she had some dirt and grime on her face and wore plain clothes. Yet she looked enchanting.

She moved to hug him before he could say a word she breathed "Thank the emperor! Thank you!" Belov did not know exactly how to react but in this situation he wanted to remain professional "Excuse me miss I appreciate the thanks but we need to keep moving. Heretic forces are still about." The woman finally let go and stood back. Belov coughed "Now do you have a name?" The woman nodded "My name is Sira sir. I tried to gather as many people as I could yet.." Belov tapped her on the shoulder "You did the work of the emperor you saved as many people as you could." The woman nodded looking closely she looked a little pale but she also had rich blonde hair that gave off a small fragrance.

Belov found it pleasant but he had to focus he had to get everyone moving back to the base. He turned to the civilians "Now when we leave this place stick close together I want everyone in a line holding another person's shoulder and keep your heads down!" All of them nodded. Belov turned to Maric "I want you to take half the squad and watch the flank, I will watch the front and lead forward." Maric nodded.

They made their way out of the church Belov looked around coast was clear they moved forward. They walked through the streets trying as much as possible to avoid open area's and remain close to cover. A few minutes into the journey Belov heard howling he gestured for everyone to stop. Belov spoke into his com "Maric my group will move ahead and see what it is guard the civilians." Belov received a response "Affirmative Sargent." Belov nodded to his group and they crept forward.

Keeping low they spotted heretics hacking at a dead corpse of some PDF Belov tried hard not to shout curses towards the heretics. Belov looked at them they wore latex gas masks along with black and pink combat vests and trousers. Some also had different skin colour, Belov felt disgust building in his gut. He counted how many there were, 5 in total, he had 5 men with him overall their squad number is 10 in total.

Belov turned to his men and made several hand gestures they all nodded. Belov counted from 5. When he got to his last digit they all stood up from cover and fired their lasguns. 3 were hit one shot spearing a heretic in the head leaving a gaping burning hole. Another was hit in the chest and tumbled onto the floor. The third heretic was hit in the hand burning away it away they knelt on the ground screaming.

The two that avoided being hit by the volley it only grazed their shoulders, their heads flicked towards their direction they gave a shout and charged forward with auto pistols and blades held high. Belov called for another volley red energy seared forward and speared the two charging heretics. They crumpled on the floor.

Belov then called for his men to advance upon the kneeling heretic yet as he approached Belov realized it was a woman she was screaming then laughing. Belov and his squad had lasguns trained on her. The heretic then pulled off her gas mask letting her ginger her flow out yet when Belov looked at her she did not look like some disgusting scarred horror but the picture form of beauty.

The heretic licked her lips she rasped "What more pain will you give me puppet? I need more! More!" Belov planted his lasgun on her head to his shook she grabbed the gun she shouted "Do it! I will become part of something greater!" She then stuffed the gun into her mouth. Belov was hesitant just for a second then he pulled the trigger and she did not die well even though there was a hole at the back of her head she still had an unnatural grin on her face.

Belov breathed "These heretics are foul and insane." he spat on her corpse. He nodded to his men "We need to keep moving." They moved back to the civilians and continued escorting them through the city. They eventually reached their main headquarters the grand church of Saint Malsi It was said that she was a canoness of the order militant our martyred lady. Her preceptory was reduced 200 due to a past war yet they withstood a tide of heretics and xeno's in Cortva's past. her leadership and faith carried them through that war. The church was majestic a shining beacon in the darkness.

As they approached the gates he saw more sisters of battle, they stopped him they asked him for identification and several other questions of faith. Belov memorized many of the scriptures and it was necessary since many PDF were purged at the start of the conflict. Eventually he was let through along with the civilians. Sira looked at the church and cried of course Belov saw a squad of the sisters of battle walking over they were of the order of our martyred lady. The sister Superior Alice approached him she nodded "Sargent Belov another sweep?" Belov responded "Yes sister superior. We were lucky to find them many churches hold more corpses than people."

Alice made a sad expression and then looked cheerful when looking at the civilians "This is good, of course they must go through the checks..." Belov nodded "We have to be careful right?" Alice smiled "So you understand. My squad will escort the civilians from here. You did good work."

Belov always felt some sense of pride when doing a job well done. Sira walked over to him she gazed at him with her blue eyes she bowed "I wanted to say thank you again. You know before they escort as away." Belov smiled "Don't talk like that perhaps we might see each other again who knows considering how the battle is going we will push the heretics and the xeno's off the planet soon." Sira gave a smile and bowed again then she ran off towards the group of civilians. Maric then walked over and gave a slight punch to his shoulder "She is quite the looker isn't she?" Belov was silent then turned "Yes but we focus on our job as soldiers of the emperor. We can think about stuff like that after we win." Maric smiled and shrugged.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/21 23:10:55


Post by: shinros


Chapter 14


Asriel was groggy as he woke up he found he was lying on something hard as he looked around he saw he was in a cage with a large amount of people. Some whimpering others crying. Asriel looked around the cage he saw a mix of uniforms imperial and of their own number. He traced the cage for any sign of Amethyst she was not there, he could not feel her either. He looked around frantically. He then looked at himself his journal and weapons were gone.

As he was looking he felt Meliva moving, trashing "We are here in their den. We need to kill them. Devour them..." Asriel grit his teeth he started to breath heavily to keep control. He then approached someone who was a cultist one of their own "Where have they taken Amethyst?" the cultist lurched up "I-I-" Asriel grabbed him "Where have they taken her?" The cultist finally stammered something out and pointed "They took her a few hours ago to the big tent over there." Asriel turned and looked outside of the cage he saw several dark eldar walking around or whipping humans. He also saw chained humans who looked whipped and beaten serving the dark eldar drinks. His gaze then turned to the middle of the camp it was a large purple tent. Two banners stuck in the place Asriel assumed to be the entrance the banner was two crossed bleeding knives the banner was topped with human heads.

Asriel let go of the cultist, Asriel walked to the cage where two guards were standing. Their armour was like midnight with purple line ridges. He breathed in the scent of both dark eldar they smelt wonderful to him for some reason. He thoughts started to drift until he thought of Adelram's directive to protect Amethyst. Asriel turned and walked towards the cultist "So this is their main camp?" The cultist shrugged "I don't know... I hear stories of what these xeno's do.. I wonder if the lords are coming.." As he said this someone in a PDF uniform walked over towards Asriel.

The man shoved him he shouted "We are in this situation because you bloody heretics and the xeno's attacked us! I may die.. but if I can kill you here... before my death... the god emperor may look favorably upon us" It seemed the other imperial soldiers were took in by his bravado. Asriel responded confused "You want to martyr yourself for a god that can't hear you? Why?" As he said this the soldier's face screwed in anger "You mock and spit on the god emperor even now scum..." The soldier moved to swing his fist at him Asriel made a swift movement dodged his strike. Asriel grabbed the soldier's arm, Asriel felt the change coming this time he did not block it, Asriel looked at the soldier "You will not keep m- us from following the directive of our lord. Not the dark eldar or a blind fool." Asriel with a swift motion twisted the man's arm breaking the bone with ease.
The man fell to the floor screaming of course the dark eldar guarding the cage paid no mind to what just happened. Many in the cage moved back especially those who looked to be imperial the cultists and those captured from his side looked at him with awe. Asriel ignored them, he had to retrieve Amethyst ensure nothing will happen to her.

Asriel then walked over to the bars of the cage again Asriel muttered under his breath "Meliva let's not hold back for this..." Asriel knew she was smiling and he felt her uncoiling within him. Black veins pulsed on his skin Asriel then grabbed the bars and pulled them apart bending them enough to make a hole he can walk through.

Asriel simply stepped out of the cage, the prisoners within seem content to stay he cared not. Of course the dark eldar guards moved to stop him. Both were bringing up their guns Asriel sprinted forwards he felt Meliva building growing, he bound to the dark eldar on the right with his talons he opened their throat with a casual swipe.
Asriel then turned and kicked the gun away from the second dark eldar on the left he then grabbed their head and twisted. Snapping it like a twig. At this moment the dark eldar in the camp began reacting to what he just did. Asriel then dipped his talon within the neck of the dark eldar he cut open.

He drew his talon up the blood trailing upwards like it had a life of its own. As he walked forwards the blood began trailing out of the dead eldar in greater amounts. Asriel began muttering a familiar ritual yet words were being added to it. Word's that came from Meliva, the dark eldar brought up their guns and fired dark shards were hurtling towards Asriel yet the blood moved to protect him. The blood formed a wall in front of him blocking the shots. Asriel casually walked forward he felt his talons growing his teeth lengthening into fangs his voice finally changing he shouted in twin voices "It's time to return to the dark prince! I shall be your Shepard!"

Asriel continued chanting the bullets of their alien guns crashing on the blood shield and until he was close enough to them he finished the chant. The blood dropped onto the floor and shapes began emerging from it. Feminine shapes daemonettes spawned from the blood. The daemonettes leaped forward ignoring the shots coming their way and went to work hacking apart the dark eldar.

Asriel could hear them shouting in their language he somehow understood some of it, they were mainly cursing than anything. Still he could not let the handmaidens have all the fun. He charged forward to a group of dark eldar. They pointed their guns and Asriel ducked dodging the shots just as they were about to fire.

Asriel moved towards them he stood and did a roundhouse kick to one eldar snapping his neck in one go due to the force. He leaped to another and clawed out their throat. A dark eldar tried to draw a blade. The xeno made various strikes Asriel dodged each with ease he grabbed their arm holding the blade and snapped their wrist, the eldar moved to strike him with their other fist he casually caught the blow and decided to break that one also.

The dark eldar dropped to their knees, he could hear them trying to bare the pain gritting their teeth. Asriel could smell their fear they know they are going to die. Asriel gently removed the dark eldar helmet he saw it was a female. She has short bound hair, pale skin and pointed ears.

She spat something in her language and tried to rise, Asriel cocked his head to one side and simply grabbed her in a bear hug. She was struggling to free herself. Asriel simply breathed in her despair, her pain and her fear everything about her smelt lovely. Asriel heard meliva's voice "We should enjoy this..." Asriel breathed "We should..." Asriel looked at the struggling dark eldar in the face he kissed her on the forehead and moved to tear out her throat with his fangs.

Asriel guzzled on her blood, it felt exhilarating with each sallow Asriel felt himself growing, more strength was filling his limbs. Asriel eventually dropped her to the ground when he finally felt her soul passing and then the fear of what was awaiting her. Asriel looked around the camp and saw everything descended into a bedlam of violence. Daemonettes tearing apart dark eldar and the more that died more daemonettes spawned from the pool sensing the feast of souls that is occurring in the camp.

Asriel looked towards the large tent in the middle of the camp and walked towards it. He approached the entrance of the tent and walked in. Asriel saw several humans chained to polls he scanned the room he saw Amethyst chained near a throne she had a few gashes on her body and her clothes were torn. She looked up towards him in joy then suddenly in horror.

Asriel looked forward and saw a male dark eldar sitting on a grand macabre throne his Armour was far more baroque and he wore a long cape made out of human skin. The eldar curled his lip in disgust he spoke in gothic in a mocking tone "A Mon-keigh ruining our operations. Just one.. I will visit such horrors upon you..."

Asriel gave a chuckle his voice distorted "A small Archon of a small Kabal acting big? We shall kill you and dine upon your corpse. This we promise you." A part of Asriel wondered why he knew the title and group of the dark eldar? Eventually the thought vanished when the Archon gestured "My dear Incubi and Succubus Velera please do away with this Mon-keigh before he causes my headache to grow any larger" the two Heavily armoured Incubi walked forward along with succubus Velera. Asriel recognized her she defeated him in the church. Asriel also saw another Dark eldar female standing next to the Archon's throne she had long pink hair tied in a braid and wore a black, purple and gold regal suit.

The three dark eldar came towards Asriel, they swung their blades at him it was difficult to dodge their blows. They were a lot more faster than the others he killed. The succubus Velera with her whip and sword knicked Asriel’s arm he hissed.

Asriel jumped back the small wound on his arm closing, Asriel licked his lips "Meliva we need to push harder." At that moment he felt Meliva expanding again as this happened horns erupted from Asriel's head. Asriel felt his senses sharpen his muscle mass increasing. The two heavy armoured eldar looked at each other then charged repeating the same strikes.

Asriel caught the back of the blade of one of the Incubi his hand sizzling and regenerating while gripping the blade. Asriel pulled Incubi towards him the Incubi came forward Asriel grabbed their head and twisted. Snapping their neck in one go. As Asriel did this the second Incubi and the succubus began circling him. Asriel smiled "Meliva I have an idea.... how about we capture them alive? You have something for that don't you?" Asriel heard Meliva speak it was much louder and clearer than before "What idea do you have in mind?" Asriel grew silent for a moment and thought of what he wanted to do.

In that instance Asriel felt Meliva coiling and moving rapidly in excitement words began to fill Asriel's mind. Asriel uttered them In that moment the dark eldar within the tent seized up. They dropped their weapons. They dropped to their knees, the Archon fell from his throne he was struggling to move he hissed "Mon-Keigh what trick are you playing at!" The incubi and the succubus Velera were struggling to get up. He also saw the pink haired eldar on her knees also. Asriel smiled and looked to the chained human slaves he moved to release them he had no use for them.

Asriel kept up the spell and chained up each of the dark eldar. Of course somehow the Archon kept spitting curses. Asriel paid no mind. Once this was done Asriel walked over to Amethyst he could tell she was terrified of him. Asriel tried to speak softly "W- I am here now Amethyst." She was crying "I want to leave..." Asriel undid her bindings pulling them apart she steadily stood up.

She moved to leave but Asriel grabbed her arm. Amethyst shouted "Asriel I want to leave! Please!" Asriel then bought her in close "Why? Don't you want revenge? Don't you want them to suffer?" Amethyst fell silent, Asriel continued "You will also feel good in the process.." Asriel felt Amethyst struggling to free herself from him, Asriel gently stroked her on the cheek in that instance he saw her eyes dilated. The struggling stopped Asriel breathed into her ear he said "I know you want them to pay.. for lashing you, for beating you. Treating you as simple object." A tear went down Amethyst cheek she said "Yes... I want them to pay to suffer..."

Asriel smiled "we have an idea for that.. if you would join us." Asriel moved to look at her again and stroked her cheek gently again she quivered. She nodded he then turned her towards the eldar. Asriel smiled.

Adelram stepped out of the rhino it was strange they found nothing this deep into supposedly dark eldar territory. Adelram reached out with his witch sight again Asriel's soul fire was growing extremely large he could also feel reality shifting.. changing. Adelram then opened a com with Silas "Have you seen anything?" Silas responded "We have caught the view of some dark eldar but they seem to be ignoring us all heading in one direction."

Adelram nodded he stepped back into the rhino and gestured for the driver to keep going. The drive went on for several minutes still nothing no sign of combat. Looking out he could see some old dead bodies hanging from churches and various dark eldar banners on walls of churches.

After driving for another hour following the direction of Asriel's soul. They finally came upon a walled encampment. The walls bared spikes, human corpses hanging from the walls and the dark eldar banners flowing the walls. Adelram stepped out of the rhino Silas landed next to him he was first to break the silence "It's too quiet." Adelram nodded "Indeed I sense very few souls and others... within the camp." Silas looked to Adelram "Others?"

Ivan then stepped out of the rhino and walked over "It's the neverborn I can also feel them, but they seem to be dissipating." Adelram folded his arms "It seems my little servant has been working quite hard..." Adelram relayed an order "All squads form up we are moving into the camp." Adelram turned to Ivan "I want you and your squad to watch the Rhino's just in case." Ivan simply gave a curt nod. The Astartes approached the camp the doors to camp were wide open as they stepped in they found mutilated dark eldar and human corpses everywhere.

Adelram then looked to the cages he saw people they advanced upon the cage and looked inside they saw their men cultists. Surrounded by dead imperial soldiers. They sat in silence the cultists faces were a mix of horror and pleasure. Adelram called out to them "What happened here?" As he said this the cultists heads flicked towards him. One spoke"My lord praise the dark prince!" Adelram sighed "I asked what happened here." The cultist finally stood up "It was Asriel my lord he changed... and then summoned the handmaidens. He entered the main tent and then the handmaidens began butchering the xeno's and finally the imperials. They left us alone my lord."

Adelram then tore off the door of the cage "I see.. all of you make your way to the Rhino's outside of the camp." The cultists left the cage in almost a single file and made their way out of the camp. Adelram then looked to the main tent and advanced towards it as he was walking Silas leapt down and walked with him. Silas handed Adelram something it was Asriel's sword and Journal "I found these in one of the tents it seems that the dark eldar were going to torch or destroy most of the imperial and the equipment of the cultists." Adelram took the sword and book shaking his head "The dark eldar would do that considering they deem everything that they use to be far superior."

As Adelram approached the tent he used his witch sight he could see several souls inside as Silas and Adelram got to the tent doors. A saw a woman wobbling out.

Adelram recognized her it was his servant Amethyst she wore no clothes and was mattered with gore all over her body. She then lurched forward and fell to her knees, She vomited red debris on the ground. Adelram tore off a dark eldar banner and wrapped it around her. She looked at him her eyes were distant yet she fell into tears she spoke slowly "My Lord I... I.. forgive me..."

Adelram sat her on the ground and he knelt down he rubbed her head "Relax I am here." Adelram pulled several stimulates and medicine from his belt and injected them into her. Amethyst began relaxing a little. He then picked her up and handed her to Silas"Place her within the rhino." Silas held Amethyst and simply nodded he walked way towards to rhino's parked outside of the camp.

Adelram turned to the tent and finally entered. He saw four chained eldar two females and one male their faces full of venom Adelram assumed going by the males armour he was the Archon. The armoured dark eldar known as Incubi was hanging from chains dead his torso missing and half eaten organs hanging out. The chained dark eldar did not utter a word he saw Asriel in the middle of the tent on all fours, wearing no clothes tearing at a corpse. He was devouring the meat of an Incubi it's head twisted in an abnormal direction.

As Adelram stepped forward Asriel was still devouring the corpse. Adelram simply said his name "Asriel.." Asriel then perked up like a predator and snarled. He stood up and walked slowly towards him talons out he stopped in front of Adelram. Adelram saw his eye twitching slightly, Asriel then smiled showing gored fangs. Adelram looked at Asriel he had a crown of long oiled horns, long black talons on his hands and feet and his blue eyes were slits and his Slectra black. Adelram blinked then Asriel looked as he always did a simple young man. Adelram walked forwards and open a pocket from his belt and removed a white sanitized cloth.

He then began wiping Asriel's mouth cleaning off the gore Adelram said "You did fine work Asriel far better than I hoped." Asriel blinked "I did?" Adelram nodded "Indeed I honestly expected a battle with the dark eldar... are you upset with what I did?" Asriel shook his head "I figured out what you were doing when they attacked the forward base." Adelram smiled under his helmet "This is why I can rely on you, also on Amethyst did you touch her." Asriel face screwed into confusion "I did not she just can't handle raw meat well." He pointed to the chained Incubi.

Adelram dropped the bloodied cloth on the floor and took another one from his belt he began wiping Asriel's body. Asriel furrowed his brows clearly uncomfortable with what is happening "My lord you don't need to do this I can handle it." Adelram chuckled "Remember what I said on the ship? You don't have to call me my lord when it's just the two of us. Now you been through so much and did so well so don't worry about it." Asriel fell silent, Adelram attention then diverted to the dark eldar "Now the chained dark eldar what did you intend to do with them?" As Adelram was wiping Asriel smiled Adelram saw it was almost innocent "I was saving them for you of course. Can't have all of them for myself." Adelram then dropped the second bloodied cloth on the floor.

Adelram smiled under his helmet a new element of the plan is being added to "Right, get your clothes we are leaving and I thank you for the gift I have the perfect idea of what to do with them." Asriel went around the tent gathering his clothes and while placing his clothes back on he was speaking as he did so "What Idea is that?" Adelram then walked over and handed Asriel his Journal and sword, Adelram chuckled "As you said I can't have them all for myself."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/22 01:52:37


Post by: shinros


Chapter 15 It was not easy writing this one.

It has been a few days since Adelram plan took out the dark eldar yet Jedrick was still fuming in the end they were small fry compared to the imperial forces. Adelram ordered for Astartes to remain in the main base for now. Of course Marius along with some of his own cultist warriors and those Astartes that craved the sound of war are bleeding to hold the line.

Adelram has expressly forbade many well known Astartes from the house of warriors and daemons from leaving. Jedrick again approached Adelram's chambers he barged in. Jedrick looked around the room it was full of occult books and defaced imperial icons. Most likely done by Adelram. Adelram was sitting in a large chair reading a book he turned to Jedrick "Must you be so loud brother?" Jedrick glowered "What are you planning Adelram? You know I don't like sitting like this we are being bled dry." Adelram casually turned a page of the book "You will see tonight." Jedrick ground his teeth "What is happening tonight?"

Adelram sighed "It's a surprise...." Jedrick began pacing the room "Adelram you must of known the capabilities of the imperials when you chose this planet. You could of seen that much through the warp." Adelram turned another page of the book "Perhaps.. if you know I can see various events within the warp why are you worried? Why are you so angry?" Jedrick stopped and turned to Adelram "There is discontent among the other Astartes." Adelram chuckled he said sarcastically "Really now? I never would have guessed." Jedrick clenched his fists "I followed you for so long now and this is the first time I feel... unsure.."

Adelram then turned another page of the book "Then keep feeling that way and wait until tonight brother. It will be worth it." Jedrick scowled "So I presume that the book you are reading pertains to our victory then?" Adelram looked up from the book and then back to it "No, It's a book I found detailing the creation of this temple and the saint it was founded on." Jedrick growled his helmet caused the sound to come out as almost as a roar "You are reading a pointless book dealing with the false emperor over focusing on the conflict." Adelram said flatly "Yes, the book is mostly garbage I am just reading it to kill time." As he said this Adelram ignited the book in purple flames reducing it to ashes.
Adelram sat back in the chair and relaxed slightly "As I said many times before wait until tonight. Now Jedrick? Get out." Jedrick snarled and left the room fuming.

Asriel was preparing tables with the other house of sin members. The temple had a garden overlooking the city. Of course the garden is not as it was due to the conflict but it had it's on strange charm. A long table was placed in a long row near the doors of the garden and three poles stood in the middle of the garden. Several members house of sin members had to lift the chairs due to them being Astartes size, they were placed in a row. Knives and forks were placed along with plates. Strangely enough while working he found that Meliva has been rather silent perhaps the events of the dark eldar camp has calmed her somewhat.

As Asriel looked around various vegetables were bought into the hall and large cutting knives and surgical tools were also bought in. A table with a cutting board was also rolled into the garden. A large frying slab was also bought into the hall and hooked to the power supplies. What concerned Asriel was that there was a smaller chair next to the large one. It took most of the day to prepare and eventually it grew dark.
The garden lights were turned on to illuminate the garden. Adelram then walked through the doors and walked over to Asriel he folded his arms "Is everything ready?" Asriel nodded "Yes my lord everything is ready." Adelram then placed his hands around his back "Now it's time to wait for the guests.."

They waited for about 10 minutes then Astartes began entering the garden and sitting down. Asriel saw, Noxus, Silas, Sebastian and Jedrick. Many other Astartes filled the seats yet he wondered where was Ivan? Asriel looked to Adelram he answered his question without him saying it "He was quite upset about what I am about to do and had no interest in partaking... I suspect it's his old legion habits dealing with xeno's kicking in." Asriel furrowed his brow "but you worked hard on this..." Adelram shrugged "His loss."

What surprised Asriel is that he saw Amethyst taking the small seat next to Jedrick Asriel looked to Adelram again, Adelram said "I "asked" Amethyst to attend." Asriel simply folded his arms "I see..." Adelram was silent. Eventually everyone was seated there was silence for about a minute until Jedrick broke it. "Now Adelram? What are we doing here? We should be fighting and spilling the blood of the minions of the false emperor. It's night so what is going on?"

The Astartes murmured in agreement Adelram eventually quieted everyone down he said "I have seen how hard everyone is fighting and as leader of this warband I decided to do a little something to raise Morale. I decided to cook for you." Jedrick foul mood spilled to the rest of the Astartes "You kept us from battle for simple food..." Jedrick got up from his chair in anger and he turned away in annoyance. Asriel could feel his anger from the middle of the garden.

Adelram simply shrugged and shouted "Bring the meat!" Out of a set of double doors came Agoston and other sin members were dragging the dark eldar Asriel caught. They were in rags and chained. They were then tied to the three metal poles in the middle of the garden. The dark eldar spat and hurled curses constantly. As Jedrick saw this he took off his helmet his face displaying a odd sense of curiosity. He placed his helmet on the table and slowly sat back down.

Adelram turned to the dark eldar and picked out a surgical knife from his belt. He carved runes into the foreheads of the dark eldar he said in earshot of Asriel "This will keep them alive no matter what I do to them..." Adelram then turned to the Astartes before him. They were all looking at him in utter silence.

This silence lasted for a minute more until Jedrick pointed at one of the dark eldar and shouted "I want the heart of the pink haired xenos!" At that instance all the Astartes glowered and muttered annoyance. Sebastian shouted "I wanted her heart!" Silas also interjected "You are being greedy Jedrick..." Jedrick scoffed "You lot were too slow." Adelram chuckled "the heart of the pink haired one for my exalted champion." Asriel saw Jedrick was smiling clearly showing his fangs.

Adelram then walked over and removed several surgical tools from his belt he walked over to the pink haired eldar and tore off her top he made a large incision in her chest she screamed in agony. Adelram then reached into her chest to open it up. He then called over a servant to bring him his saw from his supplies. The black hooded serf went through the various tools and bought Adelram a surgical saw.

Adelram then used the saw to cut through the dark eldar's rib cage revealing the pulsing organs. Adelram then made several quick cuts and incisions removing the dark eldar's heart. The eldar cried out and eventually her head sagged forward the runes burning brightly on her forehead. Adelram then went to the table with the cutting board and picked up a large sharp knife and began cutting the heart into diced meat. Adelram looked over to Jedrick and asked "How do you prefer your meat cooked Jedrick?" It took several seconds for Jedrick to respond "Rare Adelram, I like my meat Rare..."

Adelram then placed the meat on a large frying slab seasoning it as it cooked. Asriel looked at the Astartes several of them lurching forward trying to smell the cooking meat. Adelram looked up "So what else do my wonderful brothers want?" At that moment the garden erupted into a bedlam of shouts calling for various body parts or area's of meat. Of course Adelram had no intention of actually making more food until the heart as done Asriel could see he intentionally wanted them to wait. To build up the desire more. Asriel could clearly see Amethyst looked uncomfortable trying hard to keep her head down.

Adelram then plated the cooked heart and placed it in front of Jedrick. He did not utter a word Jedrick just stuffed his mouth with meat smiling. All the anger was drained from his face and all there was was a pure sense of joy. Adelram then gestured to the pink haired dark eldar "Who wants the next part?" All the astartes raised hands shouting. Eventually with time all the astartes were eating. Asriel looked at Amethyst nothing was on her plate she did not move an inch since the dinner started her gaze was still cast down. Asriel turned to Adelram "My lord I don't think she is okay..." Adelram was silent for a moment he then said "I can see that, I will handle it, Asriel go prepare some vegetables." Asriel nodded and walked over to vegetables.

Amethyst sat at the table all the astartes were eating the meat of xeno's when she sees her lord hacking them apart and serving them. Memories flash of the dark eldar camp what she did with Asriel. It revolted her yet a part of her liked it. She hated that feeling she wanted it to go away. Yet along with that came memories of what the Archon did to her for those few hours the beating... the whipping.. Amethyst then wondered why lord Adelram had her sit here for what purpose?

Amethyst looked up and saw the pinked hair dark eldar was a complete ruin of meat blood pooling in the middle of the garden. She cast her gaze down again yet she heard someone walking forward and she looked up. It was Adelram. Adelram sighed in a moment she thought she will never see he removed his helmet and placed it down on the table.

Amethyst never saw the face of her lord before it was nothing how she expected. She expected a scared old Astartes since she was aware he was around during the events of Horus. Amethyst looked at his features he had slightly long hair white hair that reached his neck, there was also some hair creasing his brow slightly curved to one side of his brow. He looked surprisingly young and boyish and bared no blemishes or scars. In Amethyst eyes his face was a picture form of beauty Adelram's black eyes burrowed into her. She was at a loss for words.

In her peripheral version Amethyst could see that when Adelram removed his helmet many of the Astartes kept their gazes away or looked down to their food. Jedrick seemed to not care in the slightest. Adelram then grabbed Amethyst chin he spoke his voice was too gentle and it was smooth his voice sounded completely different without his helmet "Amethyst do you want anything." A tear was building in her eye "My lord I-I-I" Adelram smiled "Perhaps if it makes you feel better I will allow you to pick the first organ." Amethyst was shaking a loss for words. Adelram blinked "Have I done something wrong? Do you hate me?" Amethyst finally let the tears roll down her cheeks "No my lord I can never hate you. Never..." Adelram gave a gentle smile "I can see you are hungry you ate very little for days I can see it on your features, pick a part and I will cook it for you."

A slight amount of drool left Amethyst's lips and she felt her stomach turn she was hungry her lord was just looking to care for her that's it. Nothing else he had not changed he might of focused on more area's but he is still him Amethyst meekly said "I want the liver my lord." Adelram smiled again "Very well it shall be done, from which Eldar do you want it from?" Amethyst closed her eyes "The male my my lord.. he did things to me... I want.." Adelram then removed his hand from her chin and placed it on her lips "I know I will make him suffer as I do it." Adelram then grabbed Amethyst's head gently and kissed her forehead. He then placed his helmet back on and walked towards the male Eldar.

Jedrick then turned to Amethyst he said "Are you blushing girl?" Amethyst looked at Jedrick flushed "N-no I am not!" Jedrick placed another piece of meat in his mouth "I see... anyway, back in the day of the starlight king I had to protect him due to the fact he just looked too pretty it's quite amusing actually. Many of the third in our warband back then were jealous of Adelram’s looks to the point they made several attempts on his life." Amethyst raised an eyebrow "Really?" Jedrick looked at her and laughed "You are really red you know that?" Amethyst burrowed her hands into her face at Jedrick's comment.

As Asriel was looking down at the table preparing the vegetables as Adelram ordered no one wanted any so far but he felt it's good to prepare some just in case. Asriel then heard a great scream he looked back he saw Adelram cutting open the Archon harshly and removing his Liver. Adelram then walked over to him holding a piece of Liver, Asriel looked up "Do you require something my lord?" Adelram nodded "Asriel I need you to chop up and fry some onions while I pan fry the liver I want it hot and fresh for Amethyst." Asriel then looked towards Amethyst her face was really red he raised his eyebrow "Is she is okay?" Adelram gave a heavy sigh in response.

Asriel walked over to the large frying slab and began cooking the onions turning the onions over with the spatula he began thinking he understood the purpose of putting the forward base so close to the eldar territory. Yet one thing puzzled him he wondered for what purpose did Adelram place Amethyst in that forward base? Why is she even here? Asriel turned over the onions again thinking until Adelram walked over.
He stood next to him and placed the liver on the frying slab there was silence between them for awhile just the simple sizzling of food and the sounds of Astartes shouting, talking and eating. Asriel turned to open his mouth, yet Adelram spoke first "I shall explain later." Asriel then looked down at the onions. Adelram then looked over to them "Give it another minute." Asriel nodded, Asriel found it strange he never cooked like this before a part of him was happy all he recalled on Athor was warming up ration packs and eating it from the bowl.

Asriel then heard Jedrick shout "Adelram! Do you have any wine!" Adelram perked up "Oh yes, I almost forgot." Adelram then shouted "Bring the wine!" Two acolytes left through the double doors at the other side of the garden. Adelram then looked over to Asriel again and nodded he placed grabbed a plate from the table and placed the liver on to the plate. He then walked over to Asriel "Place the onions on top." Asriel then carefully placed the onions on top of the liver.

Asriel then caught in the smell, it was lovely he then felt Meliva moving again he grit is teeth and breathed out he said to himself "Already had my share calm down..." Adelram nodded "Thank you." Adelram then turned away holding the plate and walked towards Amethyst. Adelram placed the plate in front of her she looked down at the food then up towards him. Adelram said "Don't worry eat." Adelram watched as she cut the liver and slowly put it in her mouth. She slowly began speeding up with each bite.

Jedrick then looked over with a slight frown "I can't believe you like liver..." Amethyst looked up to Jedrick chewing she swallowed and said "My lord I always liked liver. Of course my siblings always made fun of me about liking it." Jedrick raised his eyebrow "You had siblings? Really?" Adelram then interjected "They are dead since they did not have the sense to join me, including her parents. Amethyst chose me over them." Amethyst gazed down and simply kept eating in silence.

The the double doors at the other side of the garden swung open, Adelram's acolytes came forward rolling wine barrels. As this happened all the Astartes were shouting and cheering. Adelram briskly turned and walked towards the wine barrels, his acolytes cracked open the barrels, Adelram looked at the red wine thinking. Adelram then looked to the male eldar the Archon he walked over he saw that the events of the dinner has drained away the will of the eldar to throw insults. Of course having organs removed and devoured would do that to someone and being kept alive to feel every moment.

Adelram then drew his force sword of course keeping his power deactivated he walked forward and made a slash towards the Archon's arm removing it in one stroke. The Archon screamed ignoring his cries Adelram picked up the bloodied arm from the ground and placed it on the cutting board. He then asked Asriel for the largest cutting knife.

Asriel nodded and went over to the tools he picked up the knife with both hands and handed to Adelram to Asriel it was more like a small sword than anything else. Asriel watched as Adelram cut off the hand and then made a long cut along the arm. Adelram then opened it up revealing the bone, Adelram then took various surgical tools from his belt and at high speed began picking out the various shards of bone. When that was done he removed the main bone of the arm and sliced the meat into chunks.

Adelram then placed the chunks of meat on the plate and walked over to one of the wine barrels. As he looked to his warband Adelram realized they were silent watching him expectantly, Adelram then dropped the pieces of meat into the wine barrel. As he did so the Astartes in the garden let out a gasp.

Adelram then called out to his acolyte Agoston he bowed "Agoston begin serving the wine." Agoston stood straight again "Yes my lord." He clapped and several acolytes with ladle's began pouring the wine into glasses and serving it to the seated Astartes.

A glass was placed in front of Amethyst she looked at the red liquid to her it had a strange sheen perhaps due to being mixed with the blood and meat of the Archon. She looked at Jedrick he gulped the wine one in one go which caused Sebastian to shout at Jedrick "You are meant to savor it Jedrick! You don't just drink it in one go!" Jedrick scowled "It still tastes good either way and this is how I drink." Amethyst looked at the glass and slowly picked it up and bought it to her lips drinking slowly. It tasted wonderful it tasted bitter when one drank it and yet it turned sweet. There was also a hint of something else Amethyst could to put her finger on.

She drank another mouthful of the wine searching for the taste and then another until she finally realized it was all gone. Amethyst thought of her father he was a bartender and she learned how to brew things but never drank anything. She was more interested in the scientific aspect of it combining certain things together to make something new. The joy was in the process not the end result she relied on other people to enjoy her drinks. She then moved to learn things from her mother. She was a doctor, Amethyst learned how the body reacted to certain substances and she built upon that. Not once did she make a drink thinking to see how it tasted that did not matter to her.

Yet when drinking the wine the taste eclipsed that joy she wondered if she actually took to drinking could her own work been better? Amethyst then called for another refill. She drank the second glass slowly ingesting the liquid trying to deconstruct it. That then lead to another glass, Jedrick noticed how many glasses of wine she was drinking he said "Girl you sure do like your drink how about a competition?" Jedrick smiled.

Amethyst then looked at him puzzled "I can't win that you are an Astartes your physiology is far greater than that of a normal human." Jedrick laughed "The competition is to get into the joy of the drinking than to actually beat one another!" Jedrick then called to Adelram "Adelram we need larger glasses! Your little Amethyst wants a competition." Amethyst moved to protest "I don't-" Jedrick smiled "Enough talking woman! It's time to drink!" Adelram shook his head "What things are you filling her mind with Jedrick? Amethyst do you want more?"

Amethyst raised her hand slowly "My lord I still would like another refill though.." an acolyte approached Amethyst then said "I would like a bigger glass..." Jedrick laughed "See! She likes drinking!" The Acolyte gave her a larger glass similar to the sizes the Astartes were drinking they filled up the glass to the top. Amethyst thought of drinking it slowly she looked to Jedrick then the glass and backed it. Drinking deeply, Amethyst felt the stream of wine entering her system she said to herself just let go and enjoy it.

Adelram watched Amethyst drinking deeply he smiled. Adelram then picked up some tongs and picked the eldar meat from the wine barrel and began frying it. Adelram watched as the Astartes perked up to the smell he could even see in Amethyst's eyes the hunger. Adelram then said "I will begin work on the second female eldar the succubus any requests?" As he said that the garden erupted.

Adelram let this continue even as the fried meat was handed out, Adelram then stood in the middle of the garden and eventually quieted them down. Adelram announced "To be more "fair" this time to the guests in the hall everyone will draw lots for the heart." Adelram turned to Asriel "Can you fetch the lots?" Asriel nodded and went rummaging through the cooking supplies. He bought over several small sticks at various lengths.

Adelram then announced "This is for the heart please.. step forward brothers one at a time." One at a time Astartes picked a lot from Asriel's hand even Amethyst took a lot until all were seated back down again. Adelram then said "Now please open your hands and hold up your lot." All were seated and they all opened their hands raising their lot they were all looking around seeing who had the longest.

Jedrick laughed again "It looks like our little Amethyst has the longest!" At this proclamation there was some grunts of annoyance there was a lot less protest compared to when Jedrick called for the heart. Adelram then walked over to Amethyst he asked "How do you want it prepared?" Amethyst diverted her eyes slightly "Medium and cooked with the wine." Jedrick then interjected "Adelram! Cook my meat with the wine also!" As Jedrick said this all the Astartes yelled in agreement or asked the same thing. Adelram chuckled "Very well the meat shall be cooked with the wine."

Asriel watched Adelram work and Asriel looked down at the abnormal amount of blood that was pooling in the middle of the garden of course due to the eldar being hacked apart. Yet the amount spilled he could not also help but feel someone was watching them. Asriel then looked to Adelram preparing and handing out the food.

The dinner lasted another hour until all three eldar were twitching ruins of meat. Adelram stood in the middle of the garden he announced "Thank you brothers for staying and enjoying the service I provided." Adelram gave a swift bow cheers erupted in the garden "Now we look to the battle ahead to crush and enslave the minions of the false emperor!"
The Astartes then left their seats walking out of the garden those not wearing helmets, Asriel could see clear smiles on their faces. Asriel saw Amethyst on lying forward on the table out cold. Adelram approached Jedrick "Can you take her to her room?" Jedrick grunted and then nodded he gently lifted Amethyst up and left the garden.

Asriel watched them leave he looked up to Adelram "There is more going on isn't there?" Adelram looked to Asriel "Walk with me." Asriel raised his eyebrow "What about the clean up?" Adelram then said "The garden is not being cleaned we are leaving it as it is." Adelram then walked out of the garden Asriel followed along with the rest of the Acolytes.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/22 13:57:04


Post by: lliu


Nice. When you said the chapter was hard to write I thought you meant someone important had died. Haha


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/22 14:11:13


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice. When you said the chapter was hard to write I thought you meant someone important had died. Haha


It was more of the case it was hard to keep a straight face especially when I wrote the part when Adelram asked Jedrick how he wanted his heart cooked. I found after reading emperor children novels they are... somewhat dark and humorous at the same time I tried to capture that in the chapter. Cooking eldar like it's completely normal one mate thought about becoming a vegetarian after I told him about the chapter, one laughed and another said it's technically not cannibalism since it's aliens.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/22 14:32:49


Post by: lliu


Haha I see. It did capture the causality of the meal though. Nice job!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/22 19:45:07


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Haha I see. It did capture the causality of the meal though. Nice job!


Thanks I am quite excited to write the next few chapters.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/25 00:53:42


Post by: shinros


Chapter 16

Asriel walked with Adelram through the halls of the temple he walked with the acolytes behind Adelram. Eventually everyone stopped in their tracks he heard Adelram grunting in pain he heard him falling to his knees. There was a shrill panic from the acolytes they surrounded him.

Agoston bent down he said "My lord! Are you wounded? Are you alright?" Asriel could see Adelram had a hand placed on his left shoulder pad. He heard grunts and the gritting of teeth. Yet looking at him Asriel felt he was absolutely fine. Asriel aired his thoughts "I think our Lord is fine give him time." Agoston shrieked "You dare!"

Adelram then stood up panting "As Asriel said I am fine." he said firmly. All the Acolytes moved back into their position behind him their worry still clear on their faces. They kept walking for a few moments eventually reaching his chambers. Adelram then gestured for the Acolytes to leave Asriel was about to turn around until Adelram said "Asriel stay for a moment. Come with me." Asriel flicked around again as Adelram entered his chambers, Asriel followed.

There was a soft light within the room and Adelram pulled a smaller chair in front of the larger one. Adelram gestured for Asriel to sit, Asriel sat down on the smaller chair. Adelram stood and began unbinding the armour on his left arm. From the shoulder pad eventually to his whole arm it took quite some time for Adelram to remove the armour. When he removed the final piece he finally sat down.

Adelram looked at Asriel "I want you to look at something Asriel, come over." Asriel got up and walked over Adelram looked directly at him "I want you to tell me what you see on my left shoulder." Asriel then walked over to his left side and looked at his shoulder Asriel saw a black finely tattooed rune on his left shoulder. Adelram said "What do you see? What is it?" Asriel responded "My lord I think you know what it is." Asriel could hear Adelram gritting his teeth "I want you to tell me out loud what it is." Asriel looked to the rune again "It's the rune of the slaanesh my lord. You are marked."

Asriel heard Adelram give a soft chuckle "So my damnation is utterly complete now." Adelram gestured for Asriel to sit back down again. Asriel looked at Adelram "You sound happy." Adelram looked down slightly "It's more the irony and me wondering what my master and Captain would think. My master would be angry, but my captain? If he was still here? Would be over the moon. I also wonder what "he" would of said... of course I would never know since he has not once noticed my existence." Adelram gave another soft laugh.

Adelram removed his helmet slowly and dropped it next to his chair he looked at Asriel expectantly a minute of silence passed. Adelram said "Not even a reaction? No words? No gasps?" Asriel was confused this was clear on his face "React to what?" Adelram looked at him in stunned silence he laughed hard it filled the room. Adelram finally stopped and he looked at Asriel "You are so strange.. I wonder if it's the neverborn in your head doing this. Still this brings back memories of.. her."

Asriel raised his eyebrow "Her?" Adelram sat back "Don't worry about it she is long dead now." Asriel scratched the back of his head "My lo- I mean Adelram." Asriel noted Adelram smiled silently when he just said his names he continued "I don't see anything wrong with your face I don't see the problem. Now my question why was Amethyst there?" Adelram relaxed in the chair and rested his head on his hand to Asriel he looked like he was somewhat lost in thought.

Adelram finally spoke after a minute "You notice the changes on the ship and the people on it?" Asriel nodded "Yes I have." Adelram sighed "Of course not all were happy with it some could not get with the program and were killed others resisted in other ways." Asriel responded "In what ways?" Asriel black eyes burrowed into him, Adelram said "Well in the case of Amethyst she shut herself in her room not seeing anyone. Only when I call her does she ever leave. Even then in my presence it's clear as day she wants to be far away from me. Since she is reliable and one of my favored I did not want to kill her."

Asriel began thinking "So you put her in a position to accept the "changes"." Adelram sat straight in the chair "Exactly of course you helped in that considering the events of the dark eldar camp. I wanted to wear her down until finally she embraced it and looking at tonight's dinner she finally did. Of course to prevent anything unforeseen happening I had you watch after her." Asriel nodded in understanding.

Adelram smiled gently "Has that satisfied you?" Asriel nodded yet another question was cropping in his mind it related to Agoston's words from the ship. Asriel was not sure to give voice to them. Adelram leaned back in the chair "You have a question on your mind ask." Asriel looked at him he asked "Am I a pet to you?" Adelram blinked several times he stood up and walked forwards he knelt down in front of Asriel just looking at him.

Adelram said "Why do you think that?" Asriel scratched the back of his head "I don't know why I thought that." Adelram laughed "I bet it's Agoston assuming his self importance again. Let me put it in perspective for you. Can he call me by first name like this? Do I ever call him for private conversations like this? Do I ever rely on him for something important in your eyes? Does he know of my garden on the ship? I give all these things to you." Adelram then stood up and touched Asriel gently on the head "You are my valuable servant you are not my pet."
Asriel thought to himself how could he think such a thing? How could he let Agoston's words get to him? He felt more at home here with them. Being here reminds him of his childhood being with his parents. He wondered why did the imperium call them Heretics? Being here was far better than living on Athor living in the imperium working in the factory what life was that?. Asriel said "I am sorry I doubted Adelram." Adelram nodded and sat back down on his chair.

Asriel opened up his journal again on the page where he wrote the name of Belaris Fane. Yet he did not want to ask Adelram of the inquisitor "Adelram, what can you tell me of Isira?" Adelram raised his eyebrow in surprise "Why do you wish to know of her?" Asriel turned to an empty page and wrote Isira's name down "I think she is not what she appears to be. She is human yet..." Adelram smiled "You noticed it? Looking at her soul at times I notice subtle defenses. It would take a great amount of skill to do such a thing. Also any punishment done upon her does not cause her any pain."

Asriel noted this down, he looked up to Adelram again "Do you know how old she is? When did she join the host?" Adelram placed his hand on his chin "We found her about 40 years ago on a raid. With my old captain. Yet she still looks about the between 20-30 years of age I assume this is due to a "blessing". She used her "visions" to guide him to ascension, the problem was she would only speak of these visions to me. Which angered my captain to no end he inflicted any torment he could upon her and he had an active imagination. She embraced them with wanton abandon and every time he looked upon her she was smiling or had a mocking grin." Asriel tapped his pen on his cheek thinking "Did your old captain kill her at any point?"Adelram sat back in the chair "He did, of course she would be alive and well again the next day. He eventually relented and had me speak with her alone she guided us to the homeworld of a space marine successor chapter. We threw everyone and everything we had at breaking them. My captain "The starlight king." Offered up their lives to slaanesh and then he changed and vanished."

Asriel was thinking he noted this information down he looked up "Then you took over I assume?" Adelram nodded "I did of course soon as I did so she offered herself up to me gladly even. She looked excited and I dear say she had an "odd" look in her eye. I refused her considering my views back then and I did not trust her. Of course she threw several pouts and was clearly disappointed" Asriel placed his hand on his chin thinking he said "If she gave you that same choice again would you accept?" Adelram shrugged "Now? Maybe or maybe not, I don't trust her. She is good at what she does but it's clear she is hiding something. She is the kind of woman to latch onto anything that is "innocent" or "pure" and aims to corrupt or twist utterly."

Asriel squinted his eyes and thought of his mother as he said that, Asriel breathed a sigh "What if I told you she is possibly 300 years old? Or even older than that?" Adelram eyes went wide "Are you sure? How did you find that out?" Asriel scratched the back of his head "That time I talked with her... I kinda tasted her." Adelram raised his eyebrow "Tasted? yo-" Asriel waved his hands rapidly "No! I did nothing like that." Adelram was thinking for a moment he said "When we get back to the ship after the war I want to run a few tests. To know truly what your capabilities are."
Asriel raised his eyebrow "Tests?" Adelram smiled "I assure you it will be nothing harmful." Asriel sighed then another question spawned in his head "So why is she with Ivan?" Adelram placed his arm on the armrest of his chair he flexed his hand "Well when I rejected her she did her own thing and gathered a group of followers. Of course she was useful covertly so I allowed it to a point. Of course when I acquired Ivan she pledged herself to him and in turn that started the house of daemons."

Asriel noted all of this down and closed his journal and smiled. Adelram confused asked "So why do you want to know so much about her?" Asriel looked up at Adelram "I am planning to kill someone and she is going to help me. Yet I felt it would be a good idea to understand the person I will be working with. When I talked with her at times I felt like she was mocking me like I was a child." Adelram breathed out a sigh "I assume this will not conflict with my interests?" Asriel shook his head "I won't go out of my way to chase him the person I am aiming to kill." Asriel thought for a moment and revealed who he was looking to kill "The man I am looking for is the person who killed my mother the inquisitor who put Athor on watch."

Adelram sat back in the chair "I see.. you refer to Belaris Fane, he put Athor on watch as you said all we did was have the cults go to ground delay our plans and hit other targets. Of course when we finally decided to attack Athor it was too late." Adelram began thinking again for a moment "Since you did so well these past few days if I will hear anything I will let you know." Asriel face lit up "Thank you my lord I appreciate it!" Adelram up his hand "Worry not."

Asriel then began thinking again "Adelram, where is Isira by the way? I haven't seen her in awhile." Adelram gave a slight laugh "She is handling an errand for me." Asriel raised his eyebrow "An errand?" Adelram gave a coy smile "Yes indeed an errand don't worry about it." Adelram then folded his arms "Anyway you should go rest in your chambers it's been a long night. We still have a war to win." Asriel sat up from the chair and bowed "Alright I will see you tomorrow then." Asriel left the chambers.
Adelram smiled he murmured to himself "Now comes the interesting part.."



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/25 01:11:25


Post by: shinros


Chapter 17

Belov sat by himself on the stairs of the church eating his rations from a bowl, he looked over to his fellow PDF soldiers taking food from Sira, she cooked fresh chicken soup with a host of vegetables and fresh bread. Belov felt some happiness for them so much conflict and they have not gotten one chance to at least eat a decent meal. He saw Maric walking over he sat down next to him he was eating some of the soup "Sergeant why don't you have some? It tastes great! It's got chicken bits and vegetables in there tasted nothing like it before."
Belov ate another mouthful of his rations "I will stick to my rations, I like my routine keeps me sharp and aware." Maric took another spoonful of soup "Really? I mean we might be deployed any second might as well have a good meal." Belov sighed "I appreciate what Sira is doing but this is just how I do things. Perhaps even the sisters think the same way they are sticking to their own food supply." Maric shrugged "Yet we are not sisters of battle."

Belov watched Sira pour another portion of soup into the bowl as Belov watched her she had a strange beauty about her, Maric could see Belov staring he gave a small laugh "You have no idea how many proposed to her since she has been here." Belov raised his eyebrow "Really? Perhaps they should be thinking of the coming conflict instead." Maric kept eating and then looked at Belov "You my friend are such a stick in the mud." Belov gave a small shrug "Perhaps being a stick in the mud will be the thing that keeps us alive Maric." Belov kept looking at Sira she turned to him and smiled she walked over with a bowl in her hands.

She sat down next to him "Sergeant don't you want any food?" Belov gave a slight cough "I am quite alright thank you I have said my prayers and had my daily rations." Belov noticed that Maric kept quiet he then smiled and walked away back to the rest of the soldiers. Sira gave a small frown "I see... I honestly thought of what I could do to help..." Belov scratched the back of his head he was not used to dealing with situations like this he looked at himself using the reflection of the spoon. He was fair skinned, brown short hair but in his eyes he was rather plain.

Belov sighed "I appreciate what you are doing Sira, it's just how I do things." Sira responded "You are like this all the time then?" Belov nodded "I have to be, I wish to join the guard at some point haven't been chosen yet but I prepare all the same. life with the guard and the wars fought by them would be a lot harder compared to this." Belov noticed Sira was smiling when he said that "Is something wrong?" sira spoke gently "So you found your suffering and path to pursue.." Belov raised his eyebrow "Suffering? Path?"

Sira nodded "The church I used to visit it was a small one but the priest there talked of how suffering is a form of trial or test of spirit to grow and perfect oneself. He always took care of me after my parents passed away. Yet.." Sira cast her head down, Belov did not know what to say she must of lost much due to this war Belov did not really recall his parents he was a orphan and then put into the military when he came of age.

Belov leaned forward "I am sorry.. still what did this priest say of this philosophy? I never heard of it before." Sira beamed slightly "He said that everyone suffers that is the one constant of our lives. Physically or mentally or even both. How we deal with these trials allows us to understand ourselves and grow closer.." Belov finished her sentence "With the emperor?" Sira nodded.

She smiled gently "I am sure Sergeant you don't like the rations but you endure it because you have an ideal you wish to achieve or a goal." Belov smiled he never thought of it that way before yet he understood the purpose of it he endures the rations and training just to reach the chance of becoming imperial guard. Sira said "I want to give you something." Belov surprised said "Oh?" Sira replied "Indeed the priest of the church gave me this charm perhaps it protected me long enough so that you could find me and the other civilians it might protect you." Sira then pulled something out of her shirt it was a necklace a small purple ball dangled from it. As Belov looked at it he was drawn to it. Sira then placed the necklace around his neck "May the emperor protect you." Belov gripped the small pendant he nodded "Thank you Miss Sira."
Sira then stood up she looked at Belov again smiling and in that moment Belov felt something was it love? Was it lust? He was not sure he shook his head "focus!" he muttered to himself. Sira spoke as Belov shook the thought away "Well if you don't want the food perhaps another soldier may want a second bowl." She walked back to the soldiers.

Maric then came over again smiling "So.. what happened?" Belov smiled and shrugged "It was nothing Maric." Maric furrowed his brows "You are missing a great opportunity." Belov gave a small laugh "Am I now? I have my own path Maric I can't let anything get in the way of that." Maric sighed "I think you might remain single forever."

Belov shrugged "If that's what it takes to get me to my desired goal." Belov stood up and stretched and placed the pendant around his neck "Anyway I am going to prepare my gear as you said we could be deployed any second."

As Belov said this out of the distance he saw a group of Black templars and sisters of battle walking towards the church. All the PDF cleared the way and saluted, Belov looked as they approached the church their armour scorched and gashed by fighting. As they got to the steps Belov stood aside and saluted the sisters of battle and the black templars took command since many of the higher ranking PDF were purged when the heretics landed.
They walked up the steps, Belov's heart was beating to fight and aid heroes of the imperium. Heroes that give everything to defend imperium. True soldiers of the emperor as Belov was thinking this a sister of batte leading stopped she looked at Belov her face bared scars and her black power armour adorned with a mix of red robing. Her power armour backpack also bore torches. Belov knew her to be canoness Valir.

She looked at Belov staring for what Belov felt like was an age until the Black templar finally asked what has her so distracted. Belov from what he understood the Black templars leader in front of him was Marshal Marthas. He looked like a knight from the tales and scriptures Belov has read in his down time. He carried a sword and shield, several purity seals flowed from his armour and white robes. The Marshal words had an edge of contempt there but also felt like he had a need to hurry "Why have we stopped Cannoness?" Cannoness Valir raised her head slightly "You are Sergeant Belov correct? Of the PDF?" Belov seized up and stepped forward he saluted again "Yes Canoness I am indeed Sergeant Belov."

Valir smiled it was almost gentle "I heard things about you. Good things especially from my sister Alice. You will be deployed to battle on the next march, you will also lead the PDF to battle. The heretics have been pushed back and this will be the final push to remove them from the emperor's sacred world." Belov was shocked he tried to keep his face as neutral "As you ordered Cannoness." Valir nodded "Good, from what I hear you are reliable, you hold scared to the emperor unlike many of your superior's who were put to the stake and burned."

Belov gave another salute, Valir afterwards kept walking up the steps into the church without another word. The Marshal looked at Belov for another second and followed suit.

Marthas walked in silence with the Canoness until they reached the halls "They will falter, like most men who face the true enemy they will give in. All of the PDF should of been purged." Marthas said flatly. Valir listened and nodded "Perhaps, but that one has not taken in luxury or has been lax like the others. He carries himself as if he was a member of the imperial guard." Marthas gave a slight scoff "They are also limited, many times I have found them wanting Canoness, during my crusade against the foes of the emperor."

As Marthas said this a man carrying some vegetables walked by as he saw them he jumped up slightly bowed and briskly walked outside. Marthas shook his head "The civilians that have been found should of also been purged." Valir folded her arms "They passed the checks Marshal." Marthas sighed "You are aware of the type of enemy we are facing? How they can twist the hearts of even the purest servants of the emperor? Facing such an enemy, why take risks? Normal men and women are limited in heart and soul." Valir closed her eyes and turned away "Do not worry those who survive the end of this conflict will be handled appropriately Marthas."

Marthas nodded in approval "Very well, I will prepare my forces for the final march upon the enemy." Marthas walked away. Valir muttered a small prayer "We will bring victory god-emperor this I promise you."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/26 19:36:37


Post by: shinros


Chapter 18

Adelram stood in the garden by himself looking at the remnants of the dinner service he provided for his brothers. He stood at the center with the dark eldar still twitching on the poles. He removed his helmet and clipped it unto his belt, he closed his eyes and breathed in the scent of dried blood, wine and seasoning that was still in the air. He could feel them watching, pressing against the wall of reality begging to be bought through. Adelram heard the doors of the garden opening he opened his eyes and looked it was Ivan.

Ivan walked towards him, as Adelram was watching him he could see he was trying to hide his expression but he knew what he was going to say. Ivan stood next to him he said "Are you sure you want to bring them over with just this?" Adelram looked at Ivan he smiled "Yes, since this is all that will be required. Also the need to defile purity, to kill and devour the souls of the followers of the false emperor." Ivan hissed "They will kill you, have you not read the scriptures I given you?"

Adelram placed his hand to his chin thinking "I did, I personally think there is too much ceremony involved." Ivan gave a slight scowl "Ceremony!? Those techniques were perfec-" Adelram interjected "Perfected by your old legion?" Adelram shrugged "Do you know why I said they stand on too much ceremony? I found many of your books are written in the context of one who is not favoured by one of the powers. All the rituals are needed to appease them due to the fact in most cases the one summoning is not favored by one of the gods. Since the edicts of your legion is to worship them all "equally""

Ivan creased his brows with his hands "You understa-" Adelram interrupted him again "I think I understand far more on dealing with the dark prince than you." Adelram flexed his hand slightly power dancing around it. Adelram continued "During this past year and after the events of the dinner what I have understood so far, is that you are trying to fit worshiping the dark prince in a similar vein to your old legion. Why did you reject the offer to join my dinner?" Ivan spoke "Xeno's should be ki-" Adelram placed his hand up "Yes because your old legion hates xeno's in all forms and should be killed and in the case of eldar should be sacrificed in the right manner to please the dark prince. The dinner was my sacrifice Ivan." Ivan fell silent yet Adelram turned to him his black eyes burrowed into him like he was gazing into his soul peeling back his insecurity.

Adelram drew his blade and tapped it on his hand "Since the dinner service I came to understand you have limited yourself. Even with all your lectures to me in the past on worshiping chaos and slaanesh you are lacking compared to Jedrick. You are not even marked yet I can see this." As Adelram said this he could see Ivan squirming somewhat. Adelram gave a gentle smile and continued "I dare say perhaps even Isira is more favored than you, considering what I have recently learned. I have no idea what the girl is playing at calling you teacher but perhaps you should finally question her on why she came to you. You accepted it since you believed you truly understood the powers and that in your eyes those who do not worship the same way you do are below you." Adelram shrugged "The only reason why many of my brothers hang within your abode is due to their sensory deprivation and you provide free reign to largely feed it as they wish."

Adelram could see Ivan wanted to say something to retort everything he said, Adelram breathed a sigh "Now Ivan before you say something and bring my ire, be silent and watch." Adelram bought his sword in both hands and tapped the tip of his blade into the dried blood he could still hear the dark eldar twitching behind him he let in that sound. That sound of movement to fill his whole being. He closed his eyes.

Adelram began chanting, the words of summoning spilling from his lips as he was chanting he began to hear a whirl of blades spinning, crashing over flesh and the screams of souls. Adelram slowly opened his eyes his blade began to swirl with purple and pink mist he pointed his sword forward and the mist flowed into the dried blood. Adelram sheathed his force sword and placed his helmet back on he turned to Ivan "We should step back." They moved to the balcony edge of the garden if you looked outwards it lead back into the city.

Adelram and Ivan watched has the dried blood slowly began liquefying again the sound of whirling blades increased then out of the middle of the garden a large contraption lurched out of the blood smashing the tables side. Adelram looked to the thing he summoned in the middle of the garden. It looked to be a large chariot that bore large circular blades pulled by three beasts with licking tongues their back bore grey scales and their underbelly was pale with a purple hue their manes were also pink. Adelram knew the beasts to be neverborn seekers according to the scriptures.

Each of the three seekers were ridden by a daemonette they wore circlets, their corsets lined with jewels and they wore shining blue lipstick. They gazed at Adelram with their black orbs they smiled, Adelram could not tell if it was in contempt or happiness. Adelram then looked up to see a daemonette standing on a podium of the chariot it had four horns, flowing pink hair and unlike the riders her hands did not end with crab claws like the riders but the neverborn had hands holding two whips. Adelram assumed this was the herald.

The herald leaned forward and smiled "You could of let us in on the dinner." Adelram walked forward "Apologies, you see my brothers were in a foul mood." The herald looked upon the twitching dark eldar "May I?" Adelram nodded "Be my guest." The daemonette hopped from the Chariot it walked slowly to the eldar. The herald then stopped next to Adelram it was thinking for a second until it turned towards him "Now where are my manners?" The herald gave a curt bow but Adelram could tell it was more of one in acquiescence than anything else. As it leaned upright again it said "Zarvya the soulflayer, Zarvya the devour of souls. I am quite sure you don't care for my name though."

Zarvya continued walking to the chained dark eldar, it stopped to the one in the middle Zarvya grabbed the chains and broke them effortlessly. The eldar fell to the floor, Zarvya gently picked the eldar up and began devouring them at high speed. Tearing away the meat in large mouth fulls. What Adelram could see with his witch eye that as she was devouring the meat a small wisp was going with it. From he understood Zarvya was devouring the meat and soul of the eldar.

She kept tearing away at the eldar for another minute and as time went on Adelram could tell that slowly even in that ruined state the utter fear of the eldar and what is awaiting them. Yet he could not help but smile slightly. Zarvya eventually finished only leaving bone and small amounts of meat. The blood evaporated from her mouth and she finally hopped back on the chariot. Zarvya then made a gesture and the three daemonettes fell upon the last two eldar devouring them.

Zarvya leaned on the front bar of the podium "I get to eat first you see, we have seen what you done and my cohort and I are eager to feast and defile." Ivan moved to speak "What price in return for your help?" Zarvya hissed "Oh lord of sin please tell your pet to be quiet, that I will only hear the words of one who is favored and loved by slaanesh." Ivan clenched his fists and fell silent. Adelram folded his hands around his back "Zarvya, when will your companions be coming or do you require my aid to bring them forth?" Zarvya licked her lips "That won't be necessary, my cohort is on it's way, now if you move aside my dear." Adelram and Ivan stepped aside to the walls of the garden. Zarvya cracked one of it's whips forward the riders finished devouring the last two eldar and hopped onto the mounts.

The chariot began to move, it smashed through the balcony and it began riding into the streets. As the chariot did this the pool bubbled more and daemonettes riding seekers came rushing out laughing along with several more chariots. As the chariots and seeker riders ran into the streets strange creatures also came charging out. The neverborn had horse like legs and had a chest of a woman or man, it also bore a scorpion like stinger. As they ran forward chittering Adelram felt like he could pick out a song.

The blood stopped bubbling and within a few seconds it was dry again. Adelram turned to Ivan "Have everyone prepare for war we are moving out. The imperials will be crushed and enslaved." Adelram could still see Ivan was scowling he then gave a slight bow and walked out of the garden.

Belov stood at their forward base looking at several squads of PDF they stood at attention looking at him. He looked around and saw black templars and sisters of battle preparing for war he looked to his men. Belov could see some were nervous and many others looked like they are going to be ill he coughed slightly "Men we have a duty as soldiers of the emperor. A duty to kicked these heretics off our world! No not even that! To end them utterly! We will show them what it means to attack Cortva!" The men were still silent but he could see it lifted their spirits slightly.

Belov barked "You have your orders!" They all turned away they will be making the last push towards the heretic base in two groups one side will be black templars another would be the sisters of battle. He has been told that the heretics don't have the resources or forces to even fight them. Belov gripped the gem of the necklace that Sira gave him, he was with Cannoness Valir's group.

Belov then felt a tap on his shoulder he turned it was Maric "You ready sergeant?" Maric gave a small laugh "If we survive you most likely won't be one anymore." Belov looked at Maric he seemed a bit worse for wear "Yes as you said we have to survive first, also are you okay Maric?" Maric rubbed the back of his neck "I am okay sergeant, nothing to worry about I assure you." Belov raised an eyebrow "If you say so."

Belov then heard someone approaching it was sister superior Alice approaching with her squad Belov saluted Alice stopped in front of him "sergeant Belov we are moving out get ready." Belov nodded he turned to Maric"Gather the squad together we are going to end these heretics once and for all." Maricsaluted and walked away as Maric was gathering up the squad Belov still could not shake the feeling that something was wrong.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/26 19:54:30


Post by: shinros


Chapter 19
Belov along with several squads of PDF with the sister contingent lead by Cannoness Valir were moving further into heretic territory. He could clearly see the work of them on the temples and churches banners with a strange rune that hurt his head to look at. Difiled bodies hanging from the temple walls and many imperial icons defaced. Belov made the sign of the Aquila and kept up the march. The sisters of battle also bought a immolator tank with them.

Everything was quiet, too quiet for Belov's liking, Valir finally ordered everyone to stop she looked around. Out of the streets came humans, wearing the colours of the heretics wielding heavy stubbers, autoguns and crude melee weapons.
Valir yelled "Everyone to cover!" The sisters moved in a smooth motion seeking cover, it took about a second later for the PDF to respond as they were moving to cover some were cut down by the bullets of the heretics. With swift motions the sisters of battle of our martyred lady popped in and out of cover cutting down the heretics with a swarm of bolter fire. The heretics using melee weapons and pistols were incinerated by melta weapons when they got too close. Those at long range tried to fire at the immolater but all it did was cause the guns of the tank the multi meltas to fire upon anyone foolish to shoot at it. Those burned by the weapons did not even get a chance to scream before they were turned to ash.

Valir speared a heretic with her power sword and blasted another with her inferno pistol. She yelled "Push forward! Advance!" At that call the sisters of battle left cover and began walking forward firing their guns. Squads of PDF followed suit some getting cut down by autogun fire due to not wearing power armour. Belov nodded and turned to his squad "We are moving forward with the rest." Maric nodded, Belov could see many of his squad members and even Maric look to be becoming even more ill than before. Their skin was starting to pale slightly Maric gave a slight cough "We are ready to move sergeant" Belov looked at Maricfeatures again he voiced his concerns "Are you well Marius? What's wrong?" Maric breathed out "It's nothing, don't worry as you said we will end the heretics." Belov could see Maric was gripping his gut.

Belov sighed he shouted "Right men! Move forward!" they moved out of cover and began advancing shooting down the heretics in a stream of las fire, bolter shells and melta energy. Valir barked another order "Keep going they are breaking!" Belov could see some of the heretics are losing will and falling back he smiled he knew them to be cowards and they are showing it.

Yet as they advanced he caught the sound of laughter or at least he thought it was laughter and the whirling of blades. As the seconds passed the sound became louder and louder then out of the streets Belov saw a giant contraption a chariot. He saw something standing on the podium and strange beasts pulling it. There were also something or someone riding the beasts.

As he looked at it he slowly stopped pulling the trigger, the din of battle the noise dying away he could not take his eyes off them. He watched as the chariot ran over the heretics reducing them to red mist. The chariot slowly came to a stop it-she was looking at him and the riders were giving shrill laughs. Then out of the streets came more of them and the beings riding more strange beasts.

Belov watched heretics surrounding the large contraption kneeling before it, praying before it. The thing standing on the podium seemed like it was taking all of it in she held herself tightly yet when she spoke Belov heard it for some reason she said "Who is the first to offer themselves up to me?"

Belov was about to walk forward but he heard a shout piercing the voice it was Valir "Daemons! Everyone to attention! Steel your heart and soul! For the emperor!" As she said this all the sisters began singing a hymn. A song Belov focused on that it diverted his attention away from the the thing calling to him.

Belov flicked to attention he looked to his squad whatever illness gripping them got worse he shouted at them "Everyone focus! To cover!" Belov moved to shake several of his squad they slowly came to attention they moved with him into cover. Many of them were breathing heavily Belov did not know what to do he asked Maric "What's wrong tell me!" Maric and several of his squad were gripping their belly tightly, to Belov it looked that they were in pain. Maric was silent still holding his gut.

Belov popped out of cover he saw "daemons" riding beasts charging into squads of sisters of battle some daemons were speared by melta weapons. Yet some of the sisters were cut down by the laughing daemons blood gushing to the ground. The immolator tank fired its guns it caused several to explode in purple fire and pink ichor. Belov then heard a chitter and then steel being torn apart he saw strange beasts charging the immolator tank tearing it apart with scorpion stingers and crab like claws. Belov was shaking if it was pure instinct he pointed his lasgun at the daemon standing on the large chariot. She was ignoring what was going on around her. Yet looking at her Belov could not pull the trigger no matter how hard he tried.

Belov watched as the daemon picked up heretics from the ground gently and removing their masks giving them a kiss he saw a small wisp leaving the heretic's mouth and after a moment she drops them to the ground. They were all fighting for who would be next, a small part of Belov wanted that yet a part of his mind somehow knew what was happening. Belov then heard Marius give a yelp breaking his focus from the daemon.

He saw marius and his squad still gripping their bellies they were on their knees Belov looked around and it was happening to other members of the PDF. Some squads were in the same situation of wondering what's wrong with their squad. Belov kneeled down and gripped Marius shoulder "What's wrong? Are you injured?" Maric then looked up his skin pale and his eyes having black dots he was drooling "Sarg- Belov it hurts! Yet... it feels so good I can feel it... inside me!"

Belov then heard the whirling of blades moving and the deaths of sisters of battle he could hear Valir shouting orders to fall back. Yet what was happening in front of him held all his attention he watched as Maric and his squad began vomiting out pink ichor they began seizing up Belov stepped back at a loss of what to do. Marius and many of the PDF were crying out not for the pain to end but for it to keep going.

Belov's breathing slowed then out of their bellies he saw claws spearing out of their guts pulling them apart and suddenly more daemons looking similar to the riders and the one standing on the chariot. They Were slowly stepping out of the bellies of the pdf to Belov's horror. They were covered in gore but slowly it evaporated the one that came out of Maric’s gut stretched.

It looked at him, Belov could not move he was entrapped by what he was seeing he fell to the ground on and landed on his bottom. The daemon leaned down opening her claws Belov could smell the musk coming off her he could not reach for his weapon he did not want to reach for his weapon. It then looked down to his chest and then up to him again it simply turned away. She and several others that came from the bellies of the dead PDF moved to kill those who were concerned with their squad mates just like he was.

Belov could not move or think until he heard the whirling of blades right next to him he looked up and he saw the daemon of chariot devouring the face of a body torn in half. The hair and the armour it was Canoness Valir. The daemon looked down at him and smiled "You are very lucky you know that? Still why don't we have some fun?" The daemon threw the half eaten corpse on the ground it reached down and picked Belov up he offered no resistance.

The daemon stood together with him on the podium, the daemon hugged him to Belov she smelled better than the daemon that ignored him. What was wrong with him? In his mind he knew what these things did. What he saw yet he did not want to move away. Belov moved to hug her as the screams of the dying were all around him.

Adelram sat in the rhino with Asriel, Ivan, Jedrick and Sebastian they were moving to Marius's location. Adelram received word that the black templars were moving and at the back of his mind he could feel Zavrya clashing with the sisters of battle. Considering he could feel the sisters of battle souls fluttering away or being devoured by neverborn all they have to do is win here and they can move onto the temple.

After their base is taken they can move to taking the rest of the people in the city to their ship. Adelram looked to Asriel "You are aware of who we are facing yet you want to come?" Asriel cocked his head to one side "Yes I do." Jedrick shrugged and laughed "Relax Adelram, that neverborn in his head should close the gap between Astartes and a plain human." Adelram simply sighed.

The drive went on for a few more minutes he received word from the Astartes driving the Rhino "My lord we are approaching Marius's position." Adelram nodded he looked to everyone in the rhino "We will crush the black templars completely and utterly." Everyone nodded. Another minute passed and the rhino stopped.

The bay doors opened up and they stepped out to gunfire and shouts. As Adelram stepped out of the rhino he saw squads of the third stepping out of several rhino's he looked forward he saw black templars gunning down and hacking apart cultists. He looked up to the high ground and saw havoc's and Marius blasting at the Astartes. Adelram stepped forward to the battle line. Cultists made gasps and the sign of slaanesh as he passed. Adelram drew his force sword he focused and summoned several balls of purple energy he focused and shaped them into blades. He threw them forward slicing several PDF and even some black templars in half.

This act drew Marius attention from the battle he released several dirges of noise from his speaker. Adelram looked up "Yes Marius I have come to join the song." Marius fell silent then released a screech Adelram chuckled "Yes I hear it. My dear brother don't hold back show the black templars the endless cacophony of slaanesh." Marius fell silent he then looked to the other Kakophoni and nodded.

Marius released a higher pitched screech and began firing his weapon sound waves reducing the enemy into paste. Jedrick stepped forward laughing along with several of his warriors and Sebastian "We can't let Marius have all the fun!" All of them gave a cheer and rushed forward to meet the black templars in close combat.

Adelram turned to Ivan and Asriel "Asriel stick with me and Ivan? You and your squad is with me." Ivan gave a nod yet Adelram could see Ivan wanted to say something, Adelram sighed "What is it Ivan?" Ivan gave a slight cough "We are pushing the imperial's back for what reason did you have me place Isira in that position? She is wonderful at covert actions and corruption yet I have not heard anything from her." Adelram turned away and chuckled "Well.. if she did what I asked of her this battle will swing in our favor greatly at the right moment." Ivan glowered "You gave secret orders to my servant?" Adelram shrugged "She is not anyone's servant really she has an unknown agenda and she was more than happy to do my request." Ivan hissed "You are aware I will punish her right?"

Adelram gave another shrug "I bet you never punished her before either. There is not a punishment that she does not like and trust me my old captain had a far greater imagination when it came to that than you do. Also why I did what I did? I know you if I told you I know you would divert the plan to your own end." Asriel could see Ivan was seething the Astartes from the house of daemons did not want to get in between either of them.

Adelram sheathed his blade he spoke gently and folded his hands around his back his hands sparking slightly "Now Ivan do you have anything else to say?" Ivan fell silent Adelram turned his head slightly "Good now let's move."

Marshal Marthas lead his sword brethren forward he looked at the members of the third decadent and disgusting charging towards him. He saw a foul sorcerer calling his sorcery to cut apart his brothers with befoul powers and each time he looked at the third a cold fire of hatred built within his two hearts.

He ensured the PDF advanced with him they would be of little use but if they can at least take one of the traitors down their lives are well spent. A traitor legionnaire approached with his sword held high he was being followed by other traitors. He formed up with his sword brethren and charged the traitors Marthas marked the one who looks to be the leader.

He pointed his power sword at him the traitor seemed to have acknowledge his gesture. The traitor readied his blade they crashed together. Marthas could see right away each of the traitors fought like lions not like a unit. Marthas and his sword brethren did not utter a curse or word to the traitors since they did not deserve any words. They only deserve death.

Yet the traitor had nothing but words he spoke in a mocking tone "Hello, son of dorn it seems we are getting to know each other quite well.." The traitor made a quick slash to his left Marthas swatting the strike aside with his shield he traitor laughed "You fight quite roughly you know? How about more elegance?" Every time the traitor spoke it vexed him to hear his words leave his pathetic tongue.

Marthas charged forward with his shield held in front of him he crashed into the traitor he was knocked back slightly he gripped his gut and screwed his face in slight pain and then he smiled. "Cousin, my dear cousin I need more! Give me more!" Marthas in silence moved to strike the traitor he parried the blow, Marthas bought down his sword again now with more force he smashed through the traitor's guard. With a swift motion he speared his sword through the traitor's gut, the traitor breathed a rasp and laughed "That... felt wonderful dear cousin..." Marthas twisted and withdrew his blade the traitor fell to the ground smiling.

Marthas looked to his brothers the sword brethren they were dispatching the traitors he approached them "Brothers we have a new target." Marthas pointed his blade to the sorcerer that was slowly advancing "He looks to be the leader of these foul traitors. Cut the head of the snake and the rest will crumble considering how cowardly traitors are they will collapse with his death." Marthas made several eye flicks within his helmet to open his com "Bring the predator forward."

Adelram advanced through the battlefield with Asriel, Ivan and several members of the house of daemons. They were cutting their way forward through PDF any black templars that approached Adelram were blasted away with his psychic powers. Adelram looked to Asriel he was handling himself well he thought to himself along with tests he needed more training. As Adelram was thinking he saw a tank coming out of the streets a predator armed with lascannons.

Adelram smiled under his helmet he was waiting for this he also saw the leader of the black templars the Marshal advancing towards him along with the predator. He sought to kill him of course it is the correct course of action yet he prepared for this. Adelram shouted "Now Ivan you will see the work Isira has done for me." Ivan was silent swatting away PDF.

Adelram muttered the keywords at that moment along the battlefield the PDF dropped to their knees holding the bellies. Some started to scream of course there were some confusion amongst his brothers and even the black templars. Many of the PDF fell from their knees to the ground at the very spot they were kneeling even those Adelram, Asriel and Ivan were fighting.

At that moment daemonettes came bursting out of their bellies and began attacking the black templars. The surprise caught some of them unaware and many were cut down. More daemonettes fell upon the predator hacking and clawing making large holes in the tank. Some daemonettes even crawled into the large gaps they made. Adelram watched as the Marshal and his unit turned and began slicing away at the daemonettes attacking the predator.
Adelram turned to Ivan and the astartes following him "We move on the Marshal quickly!" Adelram looked to Asriel "Keep close to me." Asriel nodded.

Marthas was hacking away at the daemons that were summoned he knew it. He knew this would happen the PDF were found wanting. Whatever they did they were a host for daemons. They somehow allowed daemons within themselves. A daemon tried to charge for him he hacked it in half ichor spraying on the ground.

Another came at him he smashed aside with his shield the daemon hurtled to the ground. He stepped towards the daemon he smashed with his shield it tried to speak "Such a wonderful future of sin you will have..." Marthas bought his boot on its head, ignoring it's words they speak lies and half truths nothing more.

Marthas looked to see his sword brethren have dispatched the daemons covering the predator but it was a smoking wreck. Marthas swore under his breath he turned to see the sorcerer and his guard charging towards him yet the person who came charging first was a traitor chaplain he yelled foul prayers as he struck with his maul.

Marthas had to block with his shield the strength of the blows were not easily parried with his sword. Marthas could tell as much his opponent was frustrated trying to prove something and of course they make mistakes.

He edged back slightly he looked to his sword brethren the sorcerer was igniting them with purple flames and traitor Astartes falling upon them two at a time he had to end the traitor in front of him quickly. He held up his shield waiting for the right moment the traitor chaplain was swinging again and again. As he bought his maul down again Marthas smashed the strike aside leaving the traitor open to his shock he impaled his sword through the traitor's neck.

Marthas withdrew his blade as the traitor crashed to the ground Marthas made a quick step forward and bought his sword down onto the twin hearts of the traitor and twisted the traitor gasped. Marthas withdrew his blade the traitor tried to reach forward "But.. Cadia.. I." Marthas sliced off his hand. At that action the traitor's head fell back.

Marthas looked at the sorcerer.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/26 19:59:51


Post by: shinros


One thing I wanted to add after reading several rpg books and tomes I came to the conclusion that slaanesh more or less shows what a person truly wants(They most likely know what you want more than you do) instead of what is to be. That's more of tzeentch's thing, slaanesh merely gives you the tools to fuel your desire or excess.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/26 22:43:36


Post by: lliu


Well Ivan just got pissed on really hard...


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/26 22:53:05


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Well Ivan just got pissed on really hard...


Indeed he did! Nurgle did warn him! Slaanesh will use him hollow him out and leave nothing left.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/26 23:37:40


Post by: shinros


Chapter 20

Adelram killed another of the sword brethren igniting him hearing his screams was oddly pleasing he found. He saw Asriel assisting the other House of daemon's Astartes in combat it was good he did this less likely for him to be killed.

Adelram looked to the Marshal, Ivan was on the ground blood spilling from his body and his neck he walked towards the Marshal. The Marshal pointed his blade at him, Adelram looked to Ivan's corpse then back to him "Thank you for doing that, he was quite grating on the nerves to be honest." The Marshal was silent Adelram shrugged "Don't you have a voice?" Adelram watched as the Marshal edged forwards his blade still pointed to him.

Adelram cocked his head to the side just slightly "You know.. since you killed Ivan.. I have decided I quite like you. The silence fits." Adelram clapped his hands and smiled under his helmet "Dear cousin, I will make you my brother. I will make you love my gene-father instead of Dorn this I promise you." The marshal kept moving forwards sword raised Adelram readied his blade and ignited it with eldritch fire.

The Marshal then charged towards him his sword flicking out in a quick motion, Adelram parried the blow they were clashing with blades again and again. Both fought in silence, Adelram made a pushing motion with his left hand pushing the Marshal back with telekinesis, he heard the Marshal grunting.

As the Marshal was some distance away, Adelram threw a ball of purple fire it erupted in a small inferno. To his shock the Black templar came charging through the fire his shield raised he bore no scorch marks. Their blades clashed again Adelram found he was smiling he shouted at the Marshal "You know that stunt just caused me to like you even more? How did you do that? Most are reduced to dust." They clashed blades again Adelram for some reason could not help but speak he was excited the more he dueled the Marshal "You know when I said I would make you my brother and love my gene-father? I meant it. You would want to seek his attention just as I want to. I guarantee when you look upon him you will want to serve him completely and utterly like I wish to." With each clash Adelram could feel the Marshal's anger intensifying with each blow.

The Marshal kept crashing his sword upon his trying to break his guard Adelram kept up "The things I will do to get you to that point...." The marshal landed another blow knocking away his force blade the Marshal raised his blade to make another strike. Adelram smiled again he shouted out loud "Asriel!"

Marthas raised his blade to quiet the traitor he was far more vexing than the other's he killed words of betrayal to "love" his gene-sire, nonsense spilled from his mouth. Yet the Traitor called out a name "Asriel" in that moment a thundering pain roared at his waist. It was like it burned his strike stopped he looked down he saw a young man a heretic. No a daemon perhaps his blue eyes were slits he had a two handed sword speared deep into a gap at his waist twisting.

As he was looking down the traitor sorcerer he was fighting gripped him in a hug in an almost brotherly fashion he gestured to the young man "Asriel stop twisting the blade don't kill him. He is going to be my new brother." The heretic he knew to be Asriel let go of the blade his eyes returning to normal he scratched the back of his head "Aplogies my lord I was getting upset with what he was doing." The sorcerer spoke gently "It's alright... but first." The sorcerer gripped the blade in that instant agony gripped Marthas.
It was far more painful than taking any bolter shell or sword in his years of service. Yet the agony kept going and increasing he felt his nose bleeding. His eyes rolled back and he felt the sorcerer release his grip the spell vanishing yet his body was heavy.

Adelram watched as the Marshal collapsed to the ground Asriel sword still in his waist. Adelram looked to Asriel "You can remove your blade." Asriel walked over to the Astartes and pulled his blade out. Adelram looked to the battlefield Jedrick and Mairus along with the daemon forces are sweeping the black templars. Largely the battle is over and now they can move unto the main imperial base.

Adelram could see Asriel was looking at Ivan's corpse, Adelram walked over "Are you upset that he is dead?" Asriel shrugged "Not really." Adelram nodded "Good, in the end all the dark prince used him for is a mere vehicle for my damnation." Adelram gestured to the Astartes of the house of daemons those who survived the fight with the sword brethren.

He pointed to the Marshal "Take him back to the rhino's and make sure he is held well. Also have his weapons taken away." The Astartes nodded and picked up the Marshal carrying him across the battlefield.

Asriel approached Adelram "What now?" Adelram removed his helmet and smiled "Now we go collect our prize."

The host made their way to the temple that the imperials were using as their base of course defense was light even at the temple. The emperor's children went to work pillaging the surrounding area and taking slaves. Asriel stood with Adelram in the courtyard, along with Astartes of the house of warriors and daemons. Jedrick was also there, when Adelram told him about Ivan's death he simply shrugged it aside. Jedrick stretched slightly "So the Ivan's dead?" Adelram nodded "Indeed he is, but I have a great prize waiting for us Jedrick." Jedrick removed his helmet Adelram could see he was confused. Adelram chuckled "We are going to have a new brother Jedrick a Knight a Crusader."

Jedrick raised his eyebrow "You mean the Marshal? Black Templars are made of stern stuff Adelram." Adelram shrugged "I know but I will make sure to use all the means at my disposal to ensure he joins us." Jedrick gave a slight cough "Can I watch?" Adelram smiled "Yes indeed you can." Jedrick and Adelram then looked upon the slaves they have captured.

Asriel looked at the crowd of people the civilians and clergy. He spotted a woman that seemed out of place to him, she then stood up. Their forces pointed their guns at her Adelram held up his hand to for the Astartes to lower their guns. She walked foward and a clergyman shouted "Sira! What are you doing! Step away from them! They will kill you! They are Heretics!" She turned back towards the crowd and smiled.

She then turned to Adelram and gave a deep bow "My lord, has the day been won?" Adelram said flaty "Indeed it has Isira." There was confusion in the crowd Asriel could see that plainly how many people did she deceive and befriend he wondered? Asriel looked at Isira her eyes were shifting from blue to pink as he knew them.

Adelram sighed "I assume you want a reward now?" Isira smiled "My reward? I assume Ivan is dead I felt it from here. I am without a mas-" Adelram scoffed "He was never your master Isira or teacher." Isira smiled gently again "Indeed he was not my lord all I want is to serve you. That's it, if I am to have a reward I want it to be that." Adelram sighed "Very well." Isira gave another bow and stood next to Asriel.

Adelram turned to Jedrick "Begin taking the slaves to the ship we will do the sorting there we have spent too long on this planet. More followers of the false emperor might be on the way." Jedrick nodded "Aye let's get this over with then." The astartes walked over to the crowd and began un-clipping the manacles from their belts and attaching to the necks of the people.

Asriel then raised his eyebrow "I thought those were manacles?" Adelram looked to him "They are both they can extend quite useful actually, they were designed by my newest servant." Asriel looked to Isira "I see." Asriel watched the Astartes chaining the people up of course some tried to run and they were shot.

Eventually all the people were chained, Adelram called for the Thunderhawks and they began taking people to the ship. Adelram, Isira, Asriel and a few Astartes were waiting for the last Thunderhawk. Asriel suddenly heard a whirling of blades and laughter a neverborn on a large chariot came crashing into the temple courtyard.

It stopped in front of them, Asriel looked to see a daemonette holding a man in front of her gripping him almost like a lover. The imperial seemed to be on the brink his imperial flak armor was tattered tears welling up in his eyes. The daemonette looked at him and smiled "Hello Meliva, how are you finding the accommodation the dark prince provided for you? Do you enjoy it?" Asriel felt Meliva hissing in his mind he held his head.

Adelram placed his hands behind his back "So who is the PDF you have with you?" Zavrya licked her lips "I wish to teach him the ways of the dark prince yet... this charm keeps me from doing more to him. All I did was show him how I killed and devoured his allies." Zavrya looked to Isira "Can you remove the charm? Pretty please?" Isira smiled "I will if you teach him true suffering Lady Zavrya." When Isira spoke the imperial perked up and looked at her he stammered words out "Yo-u are with them? The heretics? Why?"

Isira smiled "Since you refused my meal I found you rather interesting so I thought that perhaps spending some more quality time with the handmaidens would be good for you. Also I love someone else sorry." Isira walked towards the chariot Zavrya helped her up she gently removed the necklace and placed it around her neck. She heard Belov say a few words "Help me please.." Isira smiled and placed her hand on his cheek thinking for a moment. Isira turned to Adelram "My lord may we take this one with us?" Zavrya pouted "You seek to use him to deal with your suffering?" Isira gave a simple smile to Zavrya.

Asriel could see Isira gazing at the neverborn for a moment, Zavrya sighed and threw the soldier to the ground with a thud. Isira turned around Zavrya uttered a few words it was almost a whisper Asriel caught it just slightly "So do you have your wish finally?" Isira shook her head "I do not. Not yet."

Isira then lightly jumped down from the chariot, Zavrya then cracked her whip again and the chariot moved out of the temple.

Asriel watched Zavrya leave he looked up to Adelram "What of the neverborn?" Adelram shrugged "The amount of devastation on this planet will sustain her for some time and perhaps she may even call more of kin to this plane. The forces of the false emperor will have their hands full on this planet for quite some time." Adelram looked at the soldier on the ground he looked up to Isira "What are you planning to do with him?" Isira spoke gently "As Zavrya said to aid in my suffering." Adelram pushed further "What suffering is he aiding in?" Asriel could see a tinge of sadness in her eyes as she said "I can't tell you." Adelram shrugged and sighed.

Asriel could see the sadness evaporating Isira then approached Adelram she made a coy smile "My lord why are you so happy? Did something happen?" Adelram was silent for a moment "How did you know that I am happy?" Isira cocked her head slightly "I have been with you for awhile I can tell." Adelram said flatly "Have you been stalking me woman?" Isira shrugged "Perhaps." Adelram sighed "Well yes I am happy." The thunderhawk was coming down as Isira responded "Why is that?" Adelram gave a small chuckle "Well... I am going to have a new brother."

Marthas awoke he found himself in a white sterilized room he was bound to a table he was without his wargear. He struggled with his bindings where was he? He remembered that heretic who stabbed him in the waist and then the sorcerer hugging him and after that intense pain.

The doors opened he saw it was the sorcerer he was followed by two heretics pushing a small table. He recognized both of them one filled him with anger. He looked at her piercing her with his gaze. The sorcerer looked at him then the person he was gazing at the sorcerer spoke "You know him?" The woman nodded "I have seen him a few times he did not suspect a thing when I fed the PDF my brew." The sorcerer nodded he turned towards him he said "I believe we haven't made introductions. I am Adelram lord of his warband. These two our my Servants, Asriel you know as the one who speared you with the sword and Isira the one who made the PDF hosts to daemonettes."

Marthas gave them silence, that's all they deserve no words. Asriel perked up "My lord? Can he speak?" Adelram chuckled "Indeed he can honestly it's part of his charm, he has such contempt for us that he does not wish to utter words to us." Asriel nodded "I see." Isira looked at Marthas "I can see what you mean my Lord his silence just oozes the need within me to break it." Adelram shook his head "Remember we are also here to make him my brother. Of course we can learn a few new things about an Astartes pain tolerance level which I am sure Asriel will write down."

Isira pouted "What's wrong with enjoying it along the way? He might learn to enjoy it as well." Adelram was thinking for a moment "Perhaps.. we shall see. Now bring the tools forward and Isira have you bought your instruments as well?" Isira nodded "I did I make sure to bring everything." Asriel confused with what instruments she bought he pushed forward a table, Marthas looked at it there were various surgical tools. Marthas steeled his heart and soul.

The woman Isira pushed another table forward instead of surgical tools there were various torture devices. Isira looked over to Adelram "My lord do you have the book?" Adelram nodded and placed a book on the table. Asriel looked at it "What book is that?" Adelram responded "Well my dear servant. This tome is called Unraveling the mind penned by Ahzek Ahriman, I am quite lucky to get my hand on a copy." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Who is that?"

Adelram sighed "I will tell you later, now..." Adelram picked up a steel device shaped like a pear "Pear of Anguish check." Adelram twisted the knob and the metal like pear arms spread open and closed. Adelram placed the device down. He picked up a barbed whip and pulled it slightly "Whip check." He placed it down again, he then picked up a large metal wedge he looked at it for a few moments he turned to Isira "What is this item again Isira?" Isira smiled it's a "Boot my lord or a shin crusher."

Adelram took off his helmet and placed it on the table "Isira you might have to show me how this one works." Isira smiled "Certainly my lord." Adelram placed the Boot down. He picked up another device "Instep borer? Creative I wonder what wicked mind made this." Adelram picked up a iron mask he looked at Isira again, she coughed slightly "That's a Scold Bridle." Adelram placed the mask down he picked up another device he chuckled "Thumb screw interesting." He looked over the dozens of other tools and nodded.
Asriel looked at the bound Astartes he could see or even feel his breathing has changed slightly he looked to Adelram "My lord as you went through the devices his breathing has changed." Adelram looked to Marthas "Ah he is most likely feeling that alien emotion to Astartes. Loyalist tend to deny it." Asriel folded his arms confused "Alien emotion?" Adelram nodded "Fear of course."

Adelram scratched the back of his head "Now where is jedrick with the needles, wires and electric devices?" As Adelram said this Jedrick came into the room panting slightly holding large needles, wire and a tiny generator. Jedrick was smiling "See I told you I would find it!" Adelram shrugged "Place it on the table with the rest of the tools." Jedrick placed the tools on the table and slowly stepped back.
Adelram looked at Jedrick "Now Jedrick, my brother as I said you get to watch. Don't touch anything." Jedrick nodded, Asriel could see he was excited, so was Isira. Adelram looked to Asriel and smiled "Now Asriel your journal a fresh page please." Asriel opened his Journal on a fresh page now he also felt excited.

Marthas looked at the heretics all eyeing him in the room he looked at the sorcerer Adelram, he began going over vows in his mind he closed his eyes and grit his teeth. He then heard a drill spinning and the pain began.


END OF PART 2


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/26 23:38:47


Post by: shinros


Er yeah gotta read gathering storm 1 again for the next part.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/27 00:10:58


Post by: lliu


Haha I like it!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/27 00:27:50


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Haha I like it!


Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/09/30 02:15:34


Post by: shinros


Chapter 21
Asriel watched his master work it's been a month of watching his lord shifting through the captive's memories his achievements, failures and even important events of his life that he may no longer even remember. What Asriel found interesting that even with every horror and torture committed upon his mind and body he barely screamed. At most there were gasps and the clear gritting of teeth.

Eventually Isira and Jedrick got bored due to nothing occuring, Adelram gave Isira a few tasks to handle and Jedrick went back to his abode. The white room was stained red and eventually his master relented. Adelram breathed out a sigh "When Jedrick said Black Templars were made of stern stuff I had no idea how true that was. Still he must be my brother." Adelram gave another sigh. Asriel watched Adelram thinking his eyes lit up, he placed his helmet back on and turned to Asriel "I am going to grab a book from my chambers keep an eye on Marthas." Asriel nodded "I will."

Adelram left the room, Asriel was left alone with the bound Astartes he finally sagged his head back relaxing a little. Asriel watched Marthas he was not moving but he could tell he was awake. Asriel breathed in the scent of dried blood, he opened up his Journal full of details on various events of Marthas life. How his old Marshal was killed by the black legion. How he took over and lead a crusade of vengeance against them. He fought traitors and xeno's for over 200 years. He was a man of Honour and bore a cold vengeance to traitors. Asriel looked at Marthas his face looked rather plain and he had short black hair.

He did wonder why he was resisting so much all his lord wants is for him to be his brother. To join the... family Asriel finally said to himself. Asriel largely kept quiet during the process but there was a need to speak "So you are a knight then?" Asriel saw Marthas perk up slightly when he said that he looked at him with cold hatred. He then sagged his head back, Asriel scratched the back of his head "No not a knight a crusader then?" Asriel walked towards the operating table and looked at the bound Astartes.

Asriel tried to give a smile "So would you kill everyone on my planet then? You are a crusader for the emperor right?" Marthas looked at him again, Asriel was wondering what he was thinking until he felt a prick in his mind it was Meliva "Look at you dragging another down so innocently without realizing it..." Asriel tried to shake the thought away.

He had no idea what she was talking about he kept speaking to the silent captive "I lived on Athor, you most likely don't know the place but.." Asriel cast his head down slightly "I can't bring myself to hate what my Lord did to my planet." Asriel could see Marthas relaxed his eyes somewhat, Asriel wondered what he was thinking he sighed.

Marthas uttered a sentence to Asriel shock "What could this traitor have done to drag down so many of the emperor's servants? His title "the lord of sin" it fits him." Asriel smiled again "You spoke? You know you don't sound all that scary like I thought." Asriel watched Marthas look away again. Asriel bit his lip slightly "But I can try to explain that." Asriel could see Marthas still had his head turned yet Asriel spoke anyway. Asriel gave a slight cough "For me it was simple, I just wanted to write and see the stars." Marthas head turned to Asriel he gave a laugh a hard laugh "You sold your mind and soul for something so simple?" Asriel nodded and smiled it was innocent but he did not even realize it "Yes. The fact I did it for something so simple shows you how bad the imperium is."

Marthas blinked "It is necessary." Asriel rubbed his neck "Is it? You know back when I lived on Athor dealing with not even having a name I liked visiting the temple praying to each of the primarchs. Dorn and Roboute Guilliman were my favorites." Marthas scowled "You should not even mention their names! With your filthy tongue!" Asriel frowned "Why? I wish the imperium was more like them and like the tenants and the scriptures said."

Asriel began thinking he spoke yet he realized there was a small amount of sadness "Roboute Guilliman speaks of courage and honour. Yet is there honour in the Arbites beating us and spitting on us? Do they have courage? They are representing the emperor's law yet are they truly following it? Do they have courage for allowing people to be killed by gangs? Where was their Honour in not pursuing them? They broke the emperor's law no? They were also a vehicle of the hopeless of our lives." Marthas narrowed his eyes at him "They were limited men and women." Asriel smiled "So why do you blame us for seeking the alternative? Are you crusading to ensure our lives remain dark and hopeless? Why have you not killed them since they are not following the law of the emperor?"

Marthas fell silent yet Asriel did not relent "My father read this passage to me from Dorn's extracts. I finally understood the meaning yet I feel the imperium missed the mark since they have created the opposite. I assume you know it. Do not look to us for kindness. Do not look to us for hope. We are not the kind children of this new age. We are the rocks of its foundation. If you wish hope then look to what we make. If you wish kindness then look to those who will come after us." Marthas said flatly "You hear the words we are not kind or scions of hop-." Asriel interjected "I know, you are crusader, you help build the foundation and defend it and attack those who threaten it yet are you happy with the foundation you are a part of? So that means you agree with the Arbites then? The cowards and honourless who beat elderly men and women? Who demand tolls?"

Marthas fell silent, yet Asriel kept speaking "The foundation is rotten to the core, crusader would Dorn support this foundation? Or tear it down and rebuild it?" Asriel smiled "This galaxy is suffering that's all it is. Yet being here helped me deal with it." Marthas almost shouted "I crusade to end it!" Asriel replied in almost a whisper "Your crusade keeps it going." Marthas scowled "You traitors and heretics torture and maim people for your on enjoyment!" Asriel blinked "You don't do the same? The people who are burned at the stake for a false foundation and lies. Those who try to find their own way build a new life for themselves are killed or turned into servitors. Arbites on my planet beat numbers for their own enjoyment. I ask you crusader what would of happened to the soldiers if we lost that war on Cortva?" Marthas stopped thinking "They would b-" Asriel gave a gentle smile "Removed. Some of them could of been used to make a better foundation but even if they survived followed all the tenants stuffed into them you would of still killed them."

Marthas turned his head away "Shut up traitor I no longer want to hear your words." Asriel frowned "So you no longer want to talk to me because a part of you thinks I might be right? As a young man you say I am limited. So as someone who is not I want you to explain it to me. Why are you crusading for a rotten foundation, in your long service you must of seen things that troubled you." Marthas breathed another insult "Shut up." Asriel shook his head "I won't, I will keep speaking the fact that you are telling me to shut up shows that you agree with me. You just don't want to admit it." Marthas turned his head towards Asriel and shouted, Asriel he flinched back "Shut up! Just be quiet! Stop making me think!"

Asriel frowned again "What's wrong with thinking? Perhaps a new path in your crusade is opening." Marthas responded spittle leaving his mouth "I crusade for the emperor, not for traitors or your master." Asriel placed his hand on his chin thinking "I don't think he cares for your crusade. The fact you are fighting for people who are not even following the edicts of the primarch's or emperor shows even you are limited. But the person I gave my mind and soul to is letting me expand myself in the area's I wanted."

As Asriel said this the door opened, Marthas turned his head away again Adelram looked at Asriel then to Marthas "I could not find the book, also I guess something just happened." Asriel walked over "He spoke." Adelram surprised said "He did? How did you do it?" Asriel looked away slightly "I just asked him a few things." Adelram chuckled "I see." Adelram folded his arms thinking "I will give up on this process to bring him to our side." Asriel surprised said "You are? What are you going to do now?" Adelram shrugged "You are going to look after him now." Asriel's eyes went wide "Why me? What did I do?" Adelram then placed his hands behind his back and began walking out he turned his head slightly "He will remain bound to the table do what you wish." Adelram walked out of the room without another word.

Asriel scratched the back of his head he looked at Marthas bound silent on the table he wondered what to do. He looked to the sink in the room Asriel began thinking and walked out of the room.

Marthas was by himself now just his own thoughts that human that traitor was vexing on his mind. Making him think or doubt at least he had his own thoughts yet his mind kept drifting back to the topic. He tried to shake away the last discussion Marthas breathed out he said to himself "go over the vows that can give focus to an addled mind." Yet when he thinks of his vows it tastes like ashes on his tongue and his thoughts divert at certain lines.

He thought of the heretic Asriel talking with his master. He has seen how heretic Astartes treat their slaves yet this was different they spoke with such familiarity. Almost trust or perhaps he trusted the Heretic Astartes utterly? Why?

He thought of the PDF on Cortva many of them trusted him or even looked up to him what did they think when they were purged? The words came back foundation. They were killed on maybe's or could. What if he did not do that? What if they kept all the forces they might of.. actually won. As Marthas thought this the doors slid open again.

Asriel walked into the room holding a bucket, sponge and some soup he walked over to the sink and filled the bucket with some warm water. He walked over to the operating table and began mixing the soup with water. He placed the sponge within the water, Asriel withdrew the sponge and gave it a slight squeeze in the bucket.

Asriel began cleaning Marthas' body it was stained with dry blood and grime during the events of the month. Asriel realized Marthas flinched or was trying to edge away, Asriel creased his brows "Stop doing that. It makes it more difficult." Marthas spoke in confusion "Why?" Asriel looked at him "Why not? I wanted to do this." Asriel continued, Marthas spoke again confusion lining his voice "Stop it." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Why do you want me to stop?" Asriel placed his hands on his hips "You don't like how I am breaking all the walls on heretics? You thought I was going to continue what my lord was doing to you? He just wants you to join him."

Asriel kept up the cleaning until eventually Marthas was spotless just like the day he was bought in. Asriel dropped the sponge in the bucket and smiled "See isn't that better?" Asriel then looked around the room thinking. He left the room again.

Marthas was alone again he thought to himself it must be a trick of some sort to wear him down. He knows heretics he killed plenty of them in the past. It's all a lie everything he was saying what he was doing. Yet a part of him was happy he wanted that part to die he wanted the part that small fraction of his being thinking he just might be right to die. It was frustrating it annoyed and angered him. That part asking what was he truly crusading for? The fact that someone like that heretic is happy here than in the imperium that he feels his life his "better". Marthas heard the doors opening again.

Asriel walked into the room with several cleaning tools and he began setting some of the tools at various parts of the room. He filled the bucket with fresh warm water and poured detergent into the mix, he dipped the mop into the bucket and began cleaning the room. Humming, Asriel was cleaning away the dried blood it took several wipes just to get a patch of dried to be swept away yet he enjoyed the work.

He saw Marthas looking at him watching, Asriel could see he was trying to understand something Asriel stopped and held the mop "What's the matter?" Marthas blinked "What of the slaves you take how are their lives better?" Asriel started think and began cleaning again "Well how we do it is that we have houses those taken have a chance to join a house of their choosing when they recruit. People normally pick the one that best suits them most of the ex soldiers or those can fight join the house of warriors where they are trained further. Of course there is another house which I am a part of called the house of sin most of the people baring an unnatural talent, intellectuals, doctors and philosophers go there my lord told me recently that he has started to be more "Open" due to past events. Of course my lord Absorbed one house that used to exist due to you killing the leader." Marthas replied flatly "You mean the heretic chaplain I killed." Asriel nodded "Yes, Dark Apostle Ivan of course from what I gather most people don't even miss him."

Marthas moved to another area of the topic "What of the slaves who do not wish to join?" Asriel began cleaning again "They remain slaves." Marthas scowled "So you enslave people to do what you wilt I knew it you are just like all the heretics I killed in the past" Asriel stopped cleaning again "What you don't see Marthas is that they have a choice and if they choose to join the "heretics" are more than willing to show them how to improve the craft they choose. Even in the imperium in a sense I was a slave there. If I don't follow said rules I am killed or turned into a servitor if I move or seek a different path other than the one set by the imperium I can be still killed or turned into a servitor. If I report my neighbor has been shot by a gangster I can be beaten by said authorities that are meant to protect us and even then I might be killed or turned into a servitor." Asriel burrowed his eyes into Marthas "At least here there is a choice and I wonder... if you join us what kind of house would you build?"

Marthas looked away "I won't." Asriel looked back to cleaning again it took a few hours and Asriel took several breaks in between. Marthas simply watched him in silence as he did so. Asriel finally cleaned away the last spec of dried blood and grime he wiped his brow. The room actually looked white again, Asriel smiled at his work. He looked at Marthas again he could see he has been thinking. Asriel began thinking again he left the room.

Marthas was by himself again how could he make such an innocent smile he wondered? Marthas began thinking about the foundation discussion again. People turn away to darkness because they have lost faith in the foundation that has been built? People can't even look to the future because the people who use the foundation are just as corrupted hence they turn to darkness to tear it down. He ensures this foundation is held. If he did try to change it? What would of happen? What if he changed their crusade? He would of most likely been deemed a heretic and killed or demoted.
These questions kept running in his mind, questions he never thought to ask himself and it hurt to ask them. To doubt he hated it. Marthas thoughts were broken when he heard the door opening again.

Asriel carried a large black robe, a sleeping bag and a folded chair. Asriel placed the sleeping bag down and propped the chair on the side of the wall. He walked forward holding the large robe he could see Marthas was confused Asriel smiled he said "Well you can wear this when you join us." Marthas responded "I said I won't and why did you bring the chair and sleeping bag?" Asriel smiled again "Well... I am going to be staying here for awhile you see. Honestly you can sleep now you must be tired you have been awake for almost a whole month even my master says that Astartes need to sleep."

Asriel placed the large robe on the table he then walked over to the sleeping bag he opened it up and snuggled inside he looked up to the table "I am going to rest for awhile perhaps you should as well."

Marthas could see from the edge of his vision Asriel in the sleeping bag drifting to sleep. He did realize that he was tired he had to endure the torture from a witch for a whole month his mind felt sluggish perhaps rest would clear it perhaps it would clear all his thoughts. Marthas closed his eyes slowly.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/01 17:15:17


Post by: lliu


Just as like a point, I think astartes sleep with one half at a time, so he'd still be awake while sleeping, but otherwise nice. Black Templars are also conditioned to filter out words so maybe psychology wouldn't work either, but either way it's good to see the parallels between chaos and the imperium and why one or the other is better.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/01 19:27:35


Post by: shinros


Chapter 22

Marthas opened his eyes still at the edge of his vision he could see him, the heretic sleeping. He was sleeping soundly he wondered how one could sleep soundly when one is a heretic the atrocities they commit and the people they corrupt. How do they live with themselves? Marthas grunted in annoyance he wondered what has occurred to the rest of his brothers. Perhaps others have been captured and tormented such as he.

Yet another dark thought was crossing his mind what if some of his brothers actually relented and joined the heretics? As Marthas was thinking he saw something drop on his chest it slithered, Marthas edged his head forward slightly to look it was a snake. A snake with white skin and it bore pink and purple stripes.

It slithered slowly up his body it's black tongue flicking in and out, Marthas looked at it's black eyes Marthas tried to move slightly to shake it off yet the bonds holding him down were too tight. Marthas tried to relax it's only a snake and the poison of one can't harm an astartes all it could do was bite which is a minor annoyance.

Yet the snake kept moving slowly towards his neck, Marthas tried to shift again yet the snake stuck to him like glue. It eventually crawled to his jugular it slowly opened its fangs and bit. In that instant Marthas felt pure agony it felt like he was being crushed he could not breathe he thrashed in the bonds. He could feel another snake dropping on his body it was moving downwards towards his leg then he felt another bite and in that moment it felt like his leg was being squished a force pushing downwards. More snakes came pouring down. In a rare occurrence Marthas screamed he tried to thrash in his bonds nothing worked the pressure kept increasing as more snakes bit into him.

Images flashed in his mind he saw his old Marshal facing the black legion instead of being killed by the chaos lord he was crushed by a giant wall. Each of his brothers he served with before becoming a Marshal were being crushed again and again he saw humans who looked like nobles laughing. Each time a brother was crushed another broken or crude stone was added to the wall. The wall kept moving to each of his brothers crushing them in turn. Another flash he was back in the white room snakes were still pouring from the ceiling he looked to the sleeping heretic. Marthas shouted "Wake up! Wake up damn you!" each time he shouted he felt the weight on his body increasing the agony the pain was far worse than the torture committed by the witch.

Yet the heretic, he was sound asleep ignoring what was going on around him it seemed the snakes were ignoring him completely. Marthas was breathing heavily another feeling was creeping into his heart. He was not sure what it was he wanted it to stop he slammed his head on the table, yet all it did was make the weight worse.

Another flash consumed his vision he saw the PDF of Cortva being crushed by the wall saluting with smiles on their faces the wall crushed them without mercy. The wall had small pebbles crumbling from it, the wall was slick with blood and gore. The wall also had cracks yet more poor bricks were being added with each person it crushed and still he saw noble humans laughing. He shouted "What's so funny about this! Is this a joke!?" He then saw Cannoness Valir on her knees praying looking up crying the wall crushed her without mercy.
Marthas now at the last battle of Cortva his crusade fighting against the third the same wall was coming towards him he looked at himself he was in his black armour, along with his sword and shield. He shouted to his brothers to everyone "Fall back! Everyone Retreat!" his brothers looked back at him confused one of his sword brethren walked up to him "Marshal are you well? We are ready to do what is required of us." Marthas watched the bloody wall approaching yet it seemed none noticed it.

The wall began crushing everyone smashing people into paste as before with each death it grew larger and larger. Some screamed for the emperor and they were crushed added to the wall without it stopping for a moment. It eventually reached Marthas he looked at it the wall it slowly stopped in front of him. It was unmoving he shouted "What do you want from me!? Why are you killing them!? Why!" the wall slowly rose and all he saw was a black shadow coming to crush him.

Then he was in the white room thrashing he was sweating he screamed "Asriel wake up! Wake up!" He stopped the weight was gone, no snakes and no walls. He turned his head he saw the heretic was up standing at his side clearly concerned.

Marthas was panting he spoke slowly "Where are the snakes?" Asriel scratched the back of his head "I don't see any snakes you were thrashing constantly calling out to me. Are you okay?" Marthas shouted spittle leaving his lips "What curse have you put on me! Heathen! Heretic!" Marthas could see Asriel was confused "I don't understand? Also I can't do curses."

Asriel grabbed a cloth and wiped the sweat off Marthas brow "To me it sounded like you were having a bad dream. What was it about?" Marthas glowered "Don't touch me! Don't touch me flith!" Marthas hated the look the heretic was giving him that clear pure concern in his eyes. Marthas hated it why did he see such innocence and concern there? He was a heretic. Nothing more.

Marthas roughly turned his head away "Leave me be. Just.. leave me." Asriel frowned he placed the cloth of the table. He picked up the chair from the wall, he unfolded it and sat down he began reading the contents of his Journal thinking. As he was reading he heard Meliva speaking "Just a little bit more, push just a bit more little serpent." Asriel sighed and closed his book he stood up straight.

He walked over to Marthas "So you won't tell me what your dream was about. All I caught was you shouting and asking what they found so funny." Marthas was silent his head still turned, Asriel shrugged "I will talk more about myself then."
Asriel moved the chair to the side of the operating table, Marthas was still looking away. Asriel smiled "You see on my planet we have numbers instead of names, well many people in the undercity did. I never understood the reason why they decided such a thing the false me the imperuim forced upon me and forced upon my parents is 1024. I was just a number to be used and replaced." Asriel gave a sad laugh "Honestly I think I have already been replaced, there is most likely a new person in my apartment doing my old job. Having no idea of what's beyond. Of what it's like to see the sky, the stars or even eat actual good food. Honestly when I was taken I thought I was going to be saved by "heroes" or saved by a space marine."

Asriel looked at Marthas he could see he was now looking at him, Asriel continued "I kept believing I would be saved of course I soon learned that would not be the case. I would be killed if an imperial ever saw me again. I wondered why? What did I do? I despaired everyone I knew was leaving me behind even people I hated. Yet the odds? Was it divine providence or coincidence? I met someone who sees me as a person he gave me a name. A reason. A need he reminds me.. of.." Asriel voice trailed away.

He could see Marthas was listening somewhat, Asriel then asked a question "If you came across us after a day of me being taken. Would you kill me Marthas? Or save me?" Marthas was silent after a moment he spoke yet Asriel could see there was a small amount of hesitation there "I would.... kill you." Asriel blinked he responded "Why?" Marthas was thinking "Since you might be corrupted, it is also required of me." Asriel frowned "Yet how do you know if someone is corrupted or not? Also what is corruption in your eyes? Also who told you it's required of you?" Asriel could see Marthas was thinking "Corruption is shown on the flesh. In the mind and soul." Asriel smiled "So you see me as corrupted then?" Asriel watched Marthas he was looking at him staring at him he turned his head away again "Leave me." Asriel nodded "I see you don't want to talk, I do honestly think it would be nice if you joined us."

Asriel stayed in the room for a few days, cleaning Marthas, keeping the room tidy and writing in his journal. Yet Asriel did feel it was quite odd that Meliva has not spoken or reacted much since his stay here. In the moments Marthas decided to speak they debated yet each time Asriel went to bed after a few hours he would wake up to Marthas screaming. He screamed of walls, snakes, his brothers being crushed by laughing onlookers. Each time he could see Marthas seemed more tired or worn out at times it's clear that Marthas has not even gotten a moment of rest.

Asriel wanted to help to understand but he refuses to speak of them until one day. Asriel was sweeping humming as he did so Marthas was on the operating table silent. Marthas said "Asriel." Asriel shot up he went over to the operating table Asriel smiled "That's the second time you called me by my name. Well the last time I heard it..." Marthas shook his head "Just listen." Asriel nodded, as he said this Asriel felt the need to open his journal. Asriel also got his pen ready.

Marthas sighed "These dreams or even visions of walls, snakes and of nobles laughing with each death. What are they? What do I do? I watch as my brothers are crushed by a crude and disgusting wall. I watch as the PDF of Cortva are crushed with smiles on their faces unknowing of what is about to happen. I watch has Cannoness Valir is crushed on her knee's praying. I scream I shout I try to get my brothers to move yet... nothing. They are crushed, the wall stops before me and yet it rises slowly crushing me and then I awake. What do I do? Even now I feel a great weight or pressure upon me" Asriel wrote down what Marthas just said he tapped his pen on his chin thinking.

Asriel said after a minute of thinking "Honestly... Why don't you fight back? Why don't you attack the wall?" Marthas clenched his eyes closed "It kills everyone and crushes everything in its path!" Asriel walked forward and looked at Marthas he looked right into his eyes "Does it matter? If anyone or anything tried to harm my master. I would do anything in my power to stop it. I would not stand idle for a second. Not even for a moment. I would not care if my eye is gouged out. I would not care if I was tormented by neverborn or in your eyes daemons. I would try to prevent any harm coming to him." Asriel could see Marthas was surprised almost shocked.

He turned his head away "I see." Asriel could see Marthas was done talking he stretched and yawned he walked to his sleeping bag. He slowly crawled into the sleeping bag and closed his eyes trying to go to sleep.

After a few minutes Marthas looked to Asriel again he wondered when did he stop calling him heretic? When he looked at him in that moment and he talked of his master he tried to look for it. Any sign of deception or trickery there was none there. Not even an ounce of an ulterior motive. He said those final words in his mind, these words would shame him in the eyes of his brothers. He was an oddity. A strange enigma Marthas looked up to the ceiling and watched as the snakes started to fall again.

He was used to this by now and then came images or visions of the wall, crushing his brothers and the PDF at the last battle. Marthas gripped his sword and shield he began walking forward one of his sword brethren held his shoulder pad. Marthas turned to him "Why are you stopping me?" His sword brethren replied clearly confused "You said we are not meant to move from this position. Is something wrong Marshal? You seem unwell?" Marthas looked forward as the wall was making its way across the battlefield crushing everyone. Marthas shouted so everyone can hear "I am going to charge forward! Out of my way!" Suddenly all his brothers began protesting it would be suicide they should wait for the enemy, don't go into the unknown. Finally his sword brethren asked "What is wrong with you Marshal?

Marthas ignored him he rushed down the battlefield charging forward, shield and sword raised he ignored the laughter of the human nobles he kept running forward towards the crumbling wall. When the wall crushed a smiling saluting PDF soldier the wall finally stopped in front of him. It was un-moving, Marthas drew his sword up for a slash he slashed the wall giving it a great gash. Yet his power sword shattered with the blow he then rushed forward with his shield.

Smashing into the wall it suddenly began pushing back with a sort of anger or cold rage. He began punching the wall again and again using all his might to hold it back. The wall rumbled and it came with a cold hard voice "Why do you stop me? Do your duty and let me pass you cannot hold me back." Marthas shouted at it "Shut up! I won't let you!" The wall ignored his protest and began pushing forward Marthas was being pushed back. Marthas put more strength in he grit his teeth he kept smashing the wall with his shield until it was reduced to a small ruin.

Marthas screamed he put his back to the wall trying to hold it back he looked to the PDF they were saluting waiting for it. His brothers oblivious or uncaring of what was about to occur. He shouted at them "What are you doing! Help me! It's going to kill you!" The PDF ignored him one of his sword Brethren called out "Marshal what are you doing? We need to get back into position!" Marthas grit his teeth while holding back the wall he heard a hiss he looked down he saw the white snake with purple and pink stripes.

Marthas laughed "Salt on the wound? Have you come to torment me as well? To bring my damnation?" the snake hissed "I will help you." Marthas blinked surprised "I can do it myself." The snake began moving slowly forward "This foundation or wall crushes millions every day, you need help to tear it down. I can feel your need to do it your joy at tearing it down. Your resolve to do it. You are a crusader are you not? This thing causes you suffering you just needed help to realize it." Marthas looked at the snake then back to the wall pushing him forward "What if I refuse?" The snake tongue flicked out "Then you will be crushed with the rest and I will leave. This will keep occurring until your mind lies broken and then your new friend would be filled with sadness."

Marthas watched the snake in silence it was about to turn away until Marthas shouted "Wait! Just wait." The snake turned towards him again "Your answer?" Marthas gave a sad laugh "I can't stop thinking these thoughts or those debates me and Asriel had. I deny but deep down I know he is right or even agree with him at times. I know what my brothers would say or do and at this point I have found my new place. I am damned" Marthas watched as the snake gave an unnatural grin "Your answer?" Marthas nodded "I accept your help "snake"."

The grin on the snake grew wide it moved with a higher speed it then crawled up his armour eventually reaching his face. Marthas looked at the snake it smiled and said "I now have a wonderful crusader." The snake in a fast movement bit Marthas face. Marthas felt the sting and what could possibly it's venom entering his system. The pressure was being lifted from his body he felt stronger he turned to the wall and gave it a punch. His fist went right through it. He kept punching it again and again filling it with holes.

The bloody bricks shattering with each blow he raged he kept smashing with wanton abandon. Until all that was left was small rocks on the ground. Marthas finally turned around to look at the PDF and his brothers. They all had their guns trained on him, Marthas looked with sadness he tried to get out a mear word "Br-" until he was shredded by las-fire and bolter rounds.

Marthas was now in the white room again he saw Asriel cleaning like always he was humming. Marthas called out to him "Asriel I wish to speak with you." As he said this he turned towards him smiling, Marthas watched his face again perhaps it was a trick he waited for him to approach. He walked to the side of the operating table he could see he was happy but confused. Asriel said "What's wrong?" Marthas looked at him he can't see it still. Why? Who is he? Marthas gave a slight laugh, Asriel responded to the laughter confused "What's so funny?"

Marthas spoke he felt joyful "Nothing it's nothing. I want to ask you something." Asriel blinked "What is it?" Marthas sighed "I want you to release me." As he said this he could see Asriel was beaming with pure happiness it was strange to him in the end perhaps he was not lying? Or trying to trick him? Asriel smiled again "So this means?" Marthas gave a simple nod.

Asriel quickly undid the bindings, he watched Marthas sit up Asriel watched as Marthas wiped his face with both hands. Asriel went over to the table and bought Marthas the black robes. Asriel watched as Marthas took the robes slowly, Asriel nodded "Well I think we should go see my lord first!" Asriel could see Marthas looked puzzled and sad Asriel looked at Marthas "Are you alright Marthas?" At that response Marthas looked at him still searching for it "I am fine. Just fine Asriel."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/01 19:27:46


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Just as like a point, I think astartes sleep with one half at a time, so he'd still be awake while sleeping, but otherwise nice. Black Templars are also conditioned to filter out words so maybe psychology wouldn't work either, but either way it's good to see the parallels between chaos and the imperium and why one or the other is better.


Yeah I read up about sleep from what I understood there seems to be some contention that Astartes only shutting one half down is enough. Also doing it all the time is actually bad for them and they do indeed need sleep since in some stories they do sleep they just do it rarely. Plus it's mainly after a month of slaaneshi torture was my thinking hence why I did it. I mean he is pretty pro standing up to all of that without barely screaming a word for a whole month. In my mind black templars are just too tough and strong mentally to break under something like that. I don't think black templars get prepared for an "innocent" young man debating with them without them caving in or slashing off their head, torture? Can easily be dealt with I think.

Never heard of black templars or space marines filtering out words. I just thought that space marines don't exactly question due to the psycho-indoctrination(Hence there are many points where he does not argue and simply tells him to shut up but the words still go into his head). Still what I am trying to do is that Asriel is a bloody enigma to him in a sense and Marthas is forced to confront certain things due to being bound. I mean if he was not he would most likely wring Asriel's neck instantly just by uttering certain words and the whole month of torture does wear on someone. In his eyes the very fact he thought those thoughts or even agreed with the heretic a little in his mind he was damned that's it. It is very black and white to him. He did the unspeakable. Hence why in this new chapter he was constantly searching Asriel for any tricks or lies on his part in his head heretics are cowards,liars and foul traitors who sold their souls for power nothing else. Even in the end he was still searching for it and if he found it well let's just say Asriel would be kinda dead.

Like in that story of the badass sliver knight who got all the way to slaanesh palace turning away all the vices and sin and what get's him? Slaanesh appearing innocent.

Plus I kinda need to replace Ivan since I brutally killed him.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/02 00:49:19


Post by: lliu


Yeah idk but it's true that debate is something space marines are not prepared to do. Haha that debate was very fun to read. Nice chapter!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/02 02:36:33


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Yeah idk but it's true that debate is something space marines are not prepared to do. Haha that debate was very fun to read. Nice chapter!


Thank you, glad you liked it I really did enjoy writing about the wall crushing people and its representation I felt going the torture route would be too predictable I mean I kinda did it like twice already and as I said black Templars can steel themselves for that kind of thing. One other thing I wanted to bring up was that both sides are kinda bad and it's about extremes at the end of the day Asriel was lucky to land with that warband that corrupts the hell out of people instead of the you know being a bog standard third warband.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/04 02:48:15


Post by: shinros


Chapter 23
Asriel walked with Marthas in silence he wondered what he was thinking at various points he noticed that he was staring at him. He stared for almost minutes at a time as they walked. Asriel wondered what he was looking for "So Marthas what's the matter? I have noticed you keep starting at me." Marthas stared at Asriel for a few more seconds before responding "It's nothing I was just looking for something." Asriel responded confused "I see." They continued walking for a few more minutes, Asriel looked forward they reached familiar doors. The light flicked to green, Asriel could still see Marthas was looking at him confused Asriel turned to him and smiled "Shall we go in?"

Asriel was now in the chambers of his lord with Marthas he could see he was clearly uncomfortable, Asriel looked to Adelram he was sitting at his desk fiddling with a small purple orb it was small enough to fit in his fingers. It had a unnatural glow, it seemed he was ignoring them focusing on the small crystal until in a few moments the crystal sparked and crumbled into dust. Asriel watched his master sigh in annoyance he finally looked up.

Asriel nodded "I bought Marthas here my lord." Adelram looked at Marthas as he spoke Asriel could tell he was quite happy "I see, so what finally made you decide to join us? I am quite surprised considering what I did to you in the the last month." Marthas narrowed his eyes "To become a heretic? Your torture was nothing, you should blame your servant he speaks too much and is too..." Adelram chuckled " "Innocent?" But that's a part of his charm he was partly the cause of my damnation also." As Adelram said this Asriel frowned slightly and looked down "I am.. Sorry." Adelram shrugged and shook his head "See what I mean Marthas?"

Adelram leaned back in his chair "So Marthas my new brother are you ready to be a part of the third?" Adelram could see Marthas flinch and clenching his hands when he said that. Marthas took a breath "I wish to see the face of the one I will be sharing damnation with." Adelram sat forward again "Very well." Adelram slowly removed his helmet it made a small whistle sound as he removed it. He then placed his helmet on his desk he looked at Marthas to Adelram he looked a little surprised.

Marthas blinked rapidly he placed his hand to his chin "you are in charge of this host I thought you would look more..." Adelram finished his statement "Corrupted? Mutated? Such things also appear on the soul Marthas. For example when I look at you with my witch sight your soul is now slowly getting a pink colouration when before it was white." Marthas sighed "Damnation is a one way street." Adelram nodded "Indeed it is and that comes with changes to the body and soul. You see what I have learned so far is that the dark prince carves our sins, virtues and needs on our bodies and souls." Adelram then placed his hands together and placed his elbows on the table he leaned forward and placed his chin on the top of his hands "I wonder what you will look like or how the dark prince will twist you since he now has his claws on you." Asriel watched the conversation taking place he looked to his hands his and gazed at his shining black nails thinking they carve our sins, virtues and needs on our bodies? Asriel thought to himself he looked up to Adelram. Asriel said "So like my eyes then? They were brown before but since that time... I noticed my vision is a lot better I can follow things even if they are moving quickly."

Adelram made a small nod in his direction "Correct, just like how Sebastian can now feel things more greatly due to the dark prince blessing his skin. Or Jedrick the dark prince twisting his features and general aura and smell to make him more appealing as a leader of war." Marthas furrowed his brows "What of you then?" Adelram sat straight and shrugged "I don't know honestly perhaps the dark prince has not decided to change me yet."

Marthas stepped forward clearly serious "Now Adelram what of my brothers?" Adelram folded his arms "Dead killed quickly, I ordered it I believed if I let them live or made moves to corrupt them you would not join me easily." Marthas nodded "You are correct to think so. Now where is my wargear?" Adelram smiled "It has been placed in your new chambers." Marthas nodded as he did so Adelram looked to the desk he pressed the button and the doors of his chambers opened.

Asriel looked to the door it was Isira she walked into the room and bowed "It is ready my lord." Adelram nodded "Good." He rose from his table and walked to Asriel "Asriel your datapad? I will give you directions to Marthas room and you will give him a tour of the ship." Asriel nodded "Very well my lord." Asriel looked to Marthas he saw he was glaring at Isira until he coughed slightly to bring him back to attention. Marthas looked at him and nodded they left the chambers without a word.

Adelram walked back to his desk and placed his helmet back on he turned his head slight in Isira's direction "No words? I am surprised." Isira gave a gentle smile "Why? Asriel did fine work nothing else." Adelram turned towards her "Very well then let us be off." Adelram and Isira left his chambers they walked through the corridors in silence until they reached a set of doors, Isira inputted numbers on the panel and the doors slid open.

As they walked in there was a large bath pool in the centre of the room and several acolytes stood ready. Adelram nodded and walked forward and raised his arms the acolytes moved swiftly removing his armour. Adelram watched Isira prepare the bath, his acolytes carefully removed his force sword from his waist and slowly removed his robe they removed each piece of his power armour carefully.

As the bath filled and eventually he was fully stripped of his armour he walked forward and slowly got in. He wondered how long has it been since he had one? Also it's best to enjoy each one since eventually he may not be able to remove his armour anymore. He watched his robed acolytes placing his armour on a stand and when they were done they bowed and left the room.

He watched Isira walk into the other room, she bought a glass and a bottle of wine. She poured it carefully Adelram raised his eyebrow "You still have no words?" Isira finished pouring the wine into the glass and smiled "If you want my thoughts as I said before Asriel did good work I wondered how he broke him." Isira then handed Adelram the glass she then placed the bottle on a table. Adelram drank it slowly he placed the glass on the side and stretched "I don't think he did."

Adelram could see Isira was not giving away a hint of her thoughts he could read her mind but he knows he would not feel or know what she is truly thinking. She responded while sounding slightly surprised "Well he did not break after a whole month of your attentions to him. How sure are you that he embraced slaanesh?" Adelram slowly blinked "He has I saw his soul slowly changing but I wonder for what reason he did so. When I left to search for a certain book I returned to see him slightly agitated and his mind slipped just for a moment. I guessed Asriel did something and I trusted him to handle it." Adelram drank another mouthful of wine he then gestured to Isira "Why don't you sit down and drink?"

As Adelram said this Isira went to the other room and came out with another wine glass she walked over to Adelram she lifted her gown slightly and sat slowly on the edge of the bath pool letting her pale feet dip into the water. As she did this Adelram could see all the intricate runes of power, prayers and devotions to the dark prince all across her leg.

She poured herself some wine and took a sip, Adelram watched her drink a small amount he then looked at Isira "So, what are you exactly? What is your aim?" Adelram watched Isira take another sip her face is completely neutral "What do you think I am? Also I have no objective I am your humble servant in all things that's all I am and all I want." Adelram narrowed his eyes "A servant that is 300 years old or perhaps even older than that. Considering you are a mere human how much favour do you carry with the dark prince?" Isira smiled "I guess Asriel would go wagging his tongue to you I should of expected that. On the Dark prince? I bear his mark there are others on this ship who are far higher than me in his eyes." Adelram drained the contents of his glass and poured himself another glass as he was doing so he said "I very much doubt that, considering none of the Astartes and humans on the ship are immortal. I only know of one person who is immortal in the third and he is quite high in the eye of the dark prince and.. arrogant to say the least."

Isira gave a slight shrug "Why do you keep doubting me? I serve you faithfully just like your favorite when I can betray you I choose not to." Adelram placed the bottle down and shook his head "Unlike you he is quite a straightforward person even if his innocence is twisted. I shall repeat my question what are you after?" He watched Isira play with her amulet she then looked at him Adelram just for a fraction of a second thought he saw sadness in her eyes she spoke breaking his thoughts "I will give you a hint I want what Asriel wants love, a different kind of course but that's all I desire." Adelram furrowed his brows "That can't be the reason that seems..." Isira interjected "Small? For someone like me? My lord don't underestimate what love can drive a person to do." Adelram fell silent and sipped his wine glass as he did so he heard a banging on the door.

Isira sighed "I shall see who it is." She sat up and walked barefoot to the door she opened it and it was Agoston Adelram could see he was sweating. Isira looked at him annoyed "You should know better." Agoston sneered at Isira he then turned to Adelram and bowed "Apologies my lord for the interruption but I have a message." Isira folded her arms "This message could not wait?" Agoston wiped some sweat of his brow "No, it killed the Astropath who received it when it was finally recorded, he bled from each orifice, pox lined his body and then he vomited pink ichor and finally he was consumed in blue fire. Considering who the message is from I came right away."

Adelram creased his brow with his hands "Hand me the message Agoston." Agoston bowed and walked over and handed the piece of paper to Adelram. Isira watched as he was reading he began drinking the wine directly from the bottle and as he continued he drank even more. Adelram turned to Isira "Get me another." Isira nodded and went to the other room she came out and handed Adelram another bottle. Isira watched as he reached the end of the message he opened the second bottle and backed all its contents.

He turned to Isira and Agoston "Get Jedrick, Sebastian, Marthas and Silas. Tell them to come to my chambers." Isira wondered what had him so flustered it was rare to see him like this "My lord what is the matter?" Adelram rose from the bath and gripped the message tightly "We are going to see the Warmaster."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/04 11:57:21


Post by: lliu


This does not look good for Adelram. Why would whoever the war master is want to see him? Oh BTW is it Abaddon or some other "Warmaster"?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/04 14:27:14


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
This does not look good for Adelram. Why would whoever the war master is want to see him? Oh BTW is it Abaddon or some other "Warmaster"?


It's Abbadon. Adelram is most likely drinking several bottles of wine right now.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/04 15:58:04


Post by: shinros


Chapter 24

Asriel walked with Marthas and gave him a tour of the ship he showed him the deck, bridge and even the bar. Asriel felt cheerful he liked Marthas as much as he liked Jedrick eventually they reached the chambers Adelram provided for him. As they walked in the room was rather plain with a large double bed at the end of the room. At the right of the room on a stand was Marthas armour and weapons.

Asriel could see it has been repaired, Asriel watched Marthas walk up to his Armour he touched the shoulder pad bearing the cross the symbol of the black templars. He began tearing off each purity seal and handed each to Asriel. Every scroll bearing vows or icon was removed from his armour until finally he tore off the robe he folded it up and handed it to Asriel.

Asriel blinked as he was doing it "So what do you want me to do with the things you are giving me?" Marthas responded his voice flat "Burn it. I have no right to wear them." Asriel nodded he watched Marthas slowly putting on his armour without aid. Interlocking each piece until he was fully in his black power armour. Asriel watched as Marthas inspected his weapons making a few quick slashes he then sheathed his blade.

He attached his shield to his left arm and nodded. As he did this Asriel heard a knock at the door he looked to Marthas "I can't exactly get the door my hands are full." Marthas slowly walked over to the door and pressed the button the door opened, Isira came walking into the room.

She stared Marthas "Lord Adelram wishes to see you Marthas in his chamber." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Did something happen?" Isira looked to Asriel and nodded "You come as well, our lord has summoned you as well." Marthas shook his head "Asriel just place my things on the bed I will incinerate them myself later." Asriel nodded and placed everything on his bed, Isira briskly turned away and left the room.

Marthas followed after, Asriel wondered what was happening he could tell that Isira was flustered he shrugged and left the room. Asriel and Marthas walked with Isira to Adelram's chambers they reached the doors and it slid open as they approached. As they went in Asriel noted that Jedrick, Sebastian and Silas were also there.

Adelram was standing leaning back on his desk, Asriel also saw that there were several empty wine bottles on the table, Adelram's helmet was sitting next to it. Jedrick sighed "So what does he want with us? Also why is Marius not here?" Adelram creased his brow "I don't know Jedrick the letter did not detail why he wanted to see us and Marius? He only comes out of his abode if there is war in the air." Sebastian scratched his chin "We could ignore the message." Silas shook his head "that is suicide you should know that."

Jedrick sighed in annoyance "Either way if we go see him he may kill us and if we ignore the message he will definitely kill us." Marthas walked forward "What is going on?" Adelram chuckled "Ah I am just telling my brothers how the warmaster himself wants to see us." Marthas removed his helmet and narrowed his eyes "Really?" Adelram nodded "Really, his note gave coordinates to a black legion space station in the eye of terror." Marthas smiled "Perhaps I may get a chance to kill him." Sebastian blinked and then laughed it was a very hard laugh "It is your funeral if you attempt such a thing." Adelram sighed "Enough, we are going to see him. We have no choice in the matter." Silas shrugged "I will go get my raptors ready just in case." Adelram nodded in Silas direction "Good, Jedrick you get your people ready as well."

Asriel furrowed his brow slightly "Er, my lord who exactly is the warmaster?" As Asriel said this the room went silent everyone stared at him. Even Isira was starting he looked around "Did I say something bad or wrong?" Asriel watched Jedrick place his hand on his face shaking his head "Adelram you haven't even told him about the warmaster?" Adelram shrugged "We are just one warband not a large one, would you expect getting a message from Abbadon the Despoiler?" Jedrick shook his head again "True."

Adelram looked to Asriel "The warmaster.. his name is Abbadon the Despoiler he leads the Black Legion he is favoured by all 4 powers and he has legionnaires from all the legions. Even the third." Asriel noticed that Adelram curled his lip in disgust when he mentioned the third being members of the black legion. Asriel scratched the back of his head "So he is someone very important." Silas sighed "He is important he leads the black crusades uniting the legions and directing them to the imperium."

Asriel nodded "So what's a black crusade?" As he said this there was a collective sigh in the room. Adelram shook his head "For now Asriel don't worry about it. I will explain later anyway as been said before I want everyone to prepare. I will go get the captain and Elizabeth ready."

Everyone nodded and left the room as Asriel was about to walk out Adelram spoke "wait Asriel you will come with me." Asriel turned around "Yes my lord." Adelram then walked out of the room Asriel followed. Asriel recognized the path it was leading towards the top of the ship the garden tended to by his master.

They went up the long stairs and past the first door. When they reached the second that requires a passphrase Adelram simply waved his hand it was glowing purple and the doors opened. Adelram walked forward and looked around "They must be in the garden. Come Asriel." They walked forward and entered the garden, Asriel saw an old man with a cane sitting at a table with Elizabeth drinking and eating beverages there was a large empty chair at the table. He recognized another person Lily putting more snacks on the table.
As Adelram approached Asriel could see there was clear surprise on Elizabeth's face "Adelram is something wrong?" Adelram walked over to the table and sat down on the large chair. Adelram removed his helmet and placed it on the table as he did so the old man spoke "He removed his helmet dear Elizabeth of course there is something wrong." As he said this he gave a heavy cough.

Asriel looked at the old man he wore a purple jacket over his shoulders, it was lined with medals and other icons of achievements. He was also wearing a white t-shirt and black trousers. Adelram turned his head to Lily "Can you please get Asriel a seat?" Lily nodded "Aye!" She left the garden.

The old man tapped his cane on the ground "So what has you so rattled Adelram?" Adelram leaned back into the chair "Abbadon wishes to see us." Elizabeth raised her eyebrow "I see this might be quite interesting actually." Adelram shook his head "We might end up dead. Anyway I came to tell you to get ready. Are you well enough to handle work Captain?" The person referred to as captain laughed "Always! I can't let my old bones and age keep me from my work. I will guide the Dominion of the phoenix to where you need it to go." As he said this lily came back with a chair and placed it at the table she smiled and gestured for Asriel to sit.

Asriel sat down and nodded in thanks "Thank you very much." Lily smiled "No problem." As this happened the captain turned towards him "Your name is Asriel? That's a good name actually." The captain leaned his cane on the table and began touching Asriel hand moving up the arm "Good muscles as well. How about you an-" Adelram interjected "No." The captain shook his head "I Wa-" Adelram interrupted again "No also he is possessed." The old captain grabbed his cane and leaned back in the chair and sighed "I see oh well then."
Asriel was confused "Are you okay captain?" The captain shook his head "I am fine boy, just fine simply disappointed." Asriel furrowed his brows "About wh-" Adelram interrupted Asriel "It's nothing. Don't worry about it Asriel." Elizabeth gave a curt laugh "What's the matter Adelram he looks like a strong young man you might be able to so something about the daemon issue. Captain has been moping all day about finding a hu-" Adelram released a heavy sigh "Enough, he can find one later."

The Captain sighed and rose from the table with the aid of his cane he looked to Lily "Can you help me to the bridge?" Lily nodded she wrapped her arm around his and helped him walk out of the garden. Asriel watched them leave he also saw Elizabeth getting up from her chair she gave a curtsy "I shall go to my throne and prepare." Elizabeth also left the room until it was only Asriel and Adelram within the room.

Adelram creased his brow "I have bought you here for another reason Asriel. Seeing that we might die soon I decided to do this." Asriel responded confused "Decided what?" Adelram smiled "Well to tell you my history of course. I thought you wanted to know why I do what I do?" Asriel's eyes went wide and in silence he placed his Journal on the table and opened a fresh page "I do want to know Adelram." Adelram smiled "Always so excited when it's something new."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/06 15:37:12


Post by: shinros


Chapter 25

He stood in formation with the 11th company the fires still burned around them the system refused compliance, they stood on the capital world of the system. When the emperor's children first made contact they sent a message that they will only bow to ones who could defeat them in battle and declared war. He watched the ruler on the world standing unbowed in front of his primarch. He then looked at Eidolon standing next to the primarch he was their Lord commander and his captain stood at the front of the formation along with the Lieutenant of their company.

Still It vexed him greatly who did the human think he was? How dare he? He gripped his bolter tightly Sergeant Damian tapped him on the shoulder plate lightly he spoke in the private vox link "Calm down Adelram you are shifting too much keep in formation while the ruler surrenders." Adelram breathed out to calm himself "Apologies Sergeant it will not happen again."

Adelram turned his attention to the human again he bent the knee before Fulgrim "You have best us in space and land we bow to your superiority our lives are yours." Adelram watched his primarch Fulgrim also known as the Phoenician smile "You should of surrendered from the start more of your people would of lived to see the glory of imperium." The ruler dipped his head lower "We did see glory the strategy employed by your warriors and within space we thought that we had the mandate to rule but it seems we were wrong. We believed to constantly test ourselves against stronger adversaries if not we would stagnate."

Fulgrim swept his white hair back he walked forward and lifted the ruler to his feet with ease brushing him down "Enough bowing, you now see the glory of the emperor and the imperium do you formally surrender your system?" The ruler clenched his eyes closed "Yes we do." Fulgrim dusted his hands "Good. Your people will be employed on some of our ships." The rulers eyes went wide "We are not worthy of such a offer." Fulgrim smiled again "Don't be that way some of the tactics you employed did impress me I wish to use them to improve my legion. Gather your best ship captains that are still alive and send them to me."

Fulgrim turned towards Lord commander Eidolon "We are moving to the next planet." Eidolon nodded "Yes my lord." Fulgrim then walked forward towards Adelram's captain "Augustus, you also did well we took minimal losses." Augustus walked forward "Thank you my lord, I will endeavor to reduce it even further." Fulgrim smiled "Ever the overachiever still to think that way does you credit. I wish to look over your company." Augustus gave a slight bow and stepped aside, Fulgrim stood at the end of the line and walked downwards nodding to certain Astartes or giving them a look. Or even saying their name or even a few words.

Fulgrim reached Damian and stopped "I heard your squad did well good work." Damian nodded "Thank you Primarch." Adelram looked at his Primarch his aquiline features and mane of white hair. The Primarch Fulgrim always sought to improve, to perfect the art of war to prove why the emperor's children were given the Palatine Aquila by the emperor. Adelram thought of the disaster that at times is whispered by the legion something afflicted the legion in the past. Crippling them but Fulgrim rose above it earning the name Phoenician. He was recruited after the event he has only been with the legion for a few years.

Fulgrim finally turned away and began walking again Adelram's mind raced what should he say or do? How should he react? It would be the first time of him having close contact with Fulgrim he always saw him from afar. He watched his Primarch walk yet he just kept walking right past him. Adelram's shoulders slackened somewhat he felt deflated.

He kept going down the line sharing a few words or giving a nod. Adelram wanted to turn his head but he could not break formation. Adelram looked up to see ships of the Administratum heading to various important government facilities most likely to handle the handover and the government change along with implementing the tithe.

The ruler of the system was eventually taken by one of the ships since he had to formally hand over control to them. Soon the clean up work began of burning the dead and they moved to the next planet.

As Adelram returned to the ship while walking the hall with his squad mates he felt frustrated for some reason it bled out he could not help it Damian grabbed his shoulder pad again "What's the matter Adelram?" Adelram shook his head "Nothing is wrong Sergeant." Damian smiled "The battle is over for now call me Damian. Also you can remove your helmet" Adelram shook his head "I cannot refer you that way Sergeant that would be disrespectful. Also.. when I remove my helmet squad coherency goes down." Damian raised his eyebrow "I can see why our captain has moved you three times to different squads." Adelram turned around "Sergeant I am going to practice at the firing range."

As Adelram was about to walk away a stream of humans came into the hall they were part of the remembrancer order. They surrounded Damian and other Astartes of his squad some wanted to paint them, some wanted to let them know they finished a new piece of music or poem Adelram did not exactly know what to think of them he was strangely not interested in art of music. His brothers were welcoming the remembrancers questions making appointments for whatever activity the remembrancer wants them to take part in.

As this was happening Adelram tried to slip away one woman stopped in front of him she was clearly nervous "I wis- wish to paint you." Adelram shook his head "Unfortunately I am not exactly the looker I would make a poor art piece. My Sergeant would be more interested in that." The woman looked up to him and nodded "Very well." She ran into the crowd trying to reach him.

Adelram kept walking towards the firing range. When he entered the range it was empty right now most likely many of his brothers are caught up with the remembrancers, his primarch accepted a great number of them to accompany them. Yet many of them or their works did not catch his interest like his brothers.

Adelram grabbed a bolter from one of the stands and magazines he walked over to the range and began firing. Something like that was frustrating him perhaps it was by accident? It must be by accident. He kept firing hitting numerous shots dead on target yet as he kept thinking his shot diverted by a few centimeters.

The doors of the firing range opened he heard someone walking towards him he fired the last round from the bolter and turned around. It was Captain Augustus he looked slightly aged with a white beard he was also bald. They had an odd relationship he was there during his recruitment and of course the various complaints by his brothers had him visiting him often or his captain coming to him. Adelram saluted, Augustus shook his head "What are you doing here?" Adelram kept up the salute "Practicing and keeping my skills sharp." Augustus sighed "I know you by now you are frustrated about something again." Adelram shook his head while holding the salute "No captain I am not."

Augustus walked towards him "At ease Adelram." Adelram dropped the salute "Do you need me Captain?" Augustus folded his arms "I hear you are not interested in the rembrancers according to Sergeant Damian. As our Primarch said developing an Artistic sense is just as important as training in war." Adelram turned his head slightly away "I can't help it, they don't interest me at times I find them perplexing." Augustus creased his brow "Or perhaps you just have not found something yet and have you voice modulated your helmet?" Adelram nodded "Indeed I have I have noticed since I have done so squad coherency has gone up by ten percent." Augustus sighed "You also are still wearing your helmet almost every waking second aren't you?" Adelram nodded again "Yes captain, my brothers no longer give me odd looks anymore and I feel more relaxed. Helping with squad chorency." Augustus rubbed the back of his neck almost like he was tired "You have only been with us for a few years I was even part of your recruitment and I already moved you to three different squads. Perhaps.." Augustus stroked his chin thinking "Adelram? I order you to find a medium you enjoy."

Adelram cast his gaze down slightly and looked up "Very well captain it shall be done." Augustus shook his head and left the firing range. Adelram picked up another magazine he placed it in the bolter and began firing more quickly this time his shots were going wider than before.

Adelram breathed out a heavy sigh and left the firing range. He was walking down the hall to his room thinking to himself, finding a medium he enjoys. He was walking thinking for a moment until he felt a thud on his chest and the squealing of a woman. He looked down he saw a woman on the floor wearing a large red robe picking up papers from the floor in a hurry.

As he looked at her she had a large hunchback she almost looked like a tech priest at least upon close inspection Adelram realized she was a normal human. She was also wearing a hood to obscure her face as she was picking up the papers she was panting "No, no I am wasting time!"

Adelram knelt down and picked up a piece of paper he tried to speak to her "Sorry about that, let me help you." The woman ignored him rushing to pick the papers up ignoring him she grabbed one last paper got up and turned away walking away without saying a word. Adelram tried to call out "You left one!" She ignored him again and rushed off down the hall.
Adelram looked at the piece of paper and shrugged. He returned to his room and placed the paper on his desk. He sat down and looked at it, the page number was one. He read the title out loud "The road of suffering. By Moira Siraphas", Adelram then looked at the handwriting it was neat, delicate even.

Adelram began reading the first page it detailed a hero of sorts who has lost much in his life but seeks to push past it. A strange curiosity gripped Adelram he left his room and went to the ships library. He searched for the author Moira Siraphas the library had several books done by her even a few handwritten copies.

He thought to claim the books since Astartes can take anything from the library as they wish. He thought of his captain's order he nodded and took a stack of the books out of the library. He returned to his room and began reading them. Various stories of people dealing with suffering and it effects those around them. Some fall to depravity, some rise above it and some cannot deal with it all.

The words gripped him and the hand written copies had that same neat and delicate writing. When reading the story it was like the utmost care was taken in conveying it. He thought of that event on the planet his primarch walking past him. Trying to constantly fit in and not working well in squads.

He closed one of the books he took it with him and left his room. He walked to the captain's chambers he stood in front of the double doors and knocked. The doors slid open and Adelram walked in he looked around the room he has been here several times due various squads voicing complaints or requests for him to be moved.

Paintings lined the walls, paintings of old battles and even a portrait of the captain himself. Augustus was sitting at his desk going over battle reports. He looked up "What is it Adelram?" Adelram walked forward and placed the book on his desk "I have completed the order captain." Augustus picked up the book "Moira Siraphas? I see, I never read her works myself but I heard good things about it. I hear that the primarch personally requested her." Augustus placed the book down again. "Knowing you Adelram I assume you are not here just to tell me you completed my order?"

Adelram nodded "Yes, after reading that book I came to realize I am dealing with my situation incorrectly." Augustus raised his eyebrow "Pray tell what have you discovered?" Adelram removed his helmet his voice soft "I have my own personal suffering and how I am dealing with it is causing problems. So I have decided I will train as a apothecary." Augustus blinked "Really? Are you truly serious about this?" Adelram gave another nod "Yes it's clear that I don't exactly work well in squads. Yet I think I have the right mindset to be a apothecary."

Augustus began thinking he looked at Adelram "I can tell you are serious about this, I will talk with Fabius he was looking for new apprentices anyway." Adelram smiled and placed his helmet back on "I will begin studying at once." Augustus held up his hand "I haven't even talked to him yet!" Adelram shook his head "I want this captain." Augustus sighed "It's rare to ever see you excited about something, Very well I will let Fabius know how serious you are about this." Adelram saluted he walked towards the desk picking up the book and left his captain chambers.

While walking he was thinking to scour the archives and ship library on anything medical related. What he heard of Lieutenant Commander Fabius he likes those who apply themselves.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/08 02:46:51


Post by: shinros


Chapter 26
Asriel was writing he stopped he looked up to Adelram he was about to speak but a question spawned within his mind "Adelram, you became an apothecary to get your primarch to notice you? Also to reduce the contention you had with your brothers?" Adelram nodded "Indeed, for whatever reason I did not mesh well with them. It was either a complaint of me attempting to override my sergeant due to me voicing that we could improve in a certain area in whatever squad I was placed in or they had problems with my face." Adelram gave a soft laugh "Of course that did not exactly work either. My brothers had to accept that I did good work as an apothecary but my chief want was never realized."

Asriel tapped the pen on his chin "I see. Did your primarch ever notice you?" Adelram sighed "He did not, so I decided to push myself further. I shall continue"

Adelram was working on one of his brothers his master Fabius Chief apothecary and Lieutenant Commander of the legion was watching him carefully. Adelram swiftly removed the shattered bone shards from his brothers organs. The planet they were bringing under compliance had weapons that could easily shatter their armour even crack the bones of Astartes.

Adelram was working non stop to save many members of his company and he did save many those even his master thought would pass due to injury. Adelram removed the last bone shard and drained the excess blood. He then replaced the various fractured bones and stitched him up when the work was done.

Adelram turned to Fabius his master, Fabius gave a small clap "Another one, I do say watching you work is quite impressive. Still you have a long way to go." Adelram nodded "Thank you master." Adelram watched as his brothers breathing began to steady. Adelram then heard a beep, Fabius then looked to his wristband and gave a wry grin "It seems our Primarch has taken to the field, not surprising considering all the injuries inflicted on our Legion. We should make planet fall with the other apothecaries most likely there are several members of our legion bleeding out on the battlefield." Fabius walked out of the operating theater, Adelram looked at his white armour stained red he clenched his hands and murmured to himself "This is not enough. Even with all of this..."

Adelram sighed and followed his master. When he reached the docking bay with Fabius there were human serfs and apothecaries dragging emperor's children on large operating tables bearing the same injuries. Fabius placed his hand on his chin "Curious weapons the humans of this planet bear, guns that shoot needle like projectiles that burrow into the armour and flesh and after a few seconds it explodes within." Of course they are simple humans but the problem arises when the whole army is armed with such weapons.
Adelram watched his brothers and those of other companies being taken to the various operating theater's some companies had to move to other ships due to their theater's being filled up. Adelram looked to Fabius "Can my fellow Apothecaries help them?" Fabius shook his head "No if it was you or me working on them most likely yes. I suspect many of our legion will be dead after this battle is done." Fabius smiled again "I wonder why you drive yourself so hard in your studies the sheer focus you have my student is quite interesting. What caused it? I wonder?" Adelram shook his head "I just wanted to be an Apothecary that's all."

Fabius stroked his chin "I see.. anyway since our Primarch took to the field he has been driving the enemy back. This is where we will part ways I shall be going to a different camp via a different thunderhawk." Adelram nodded "Then I will see you after this battle is done master." Fabius began walking to the thunderhawk and laughed "Be sure not die my student I do dislike waste and considering your raw talent don't do anything stupid."

Adelram watched his master leave he has not been to the battlefield yet due to being stuck on the ship tending to his brothers. Adelram looked to the thunderhawk he was taking and began walking towards it. As he stepped on he saw familiar faces his old squad. Adelram gave a curt nod "sergeant." Damian acknowledged it "Apothecary, I hear you saved many of our brothers within the company." As he said this the Thunderhawk took off, Damian continued speaking "I hear our captain is fighting with the Phoenician along with his honour guard and Lord Commander Eidolon" Adelram responded his voice flat "Of course he is, all the captains fight with our primarch when able."

Damian gave a small shrug "I do wonder why you became an apothecary Adelram." Adelram look directly at Damian "Because I wanted to. I realized my flaws and moved to fix them." Damian cocked his head back slightly "Really? From what I hear you still have no interest in the finer arts. Your flaws are still there brother." Adelram turned away "I know my flaws Damian better than you do. I suffer but I will be stronger for it I will not stop here." Damian was about to speak until the thunderhawk thudded and the bay doors opened to shouts and gun fire.

Damian and his squad stepped out, Adelram did so afterwards he watched Damian and his squad leave the camp. He looked around to the various tents he saw his brothers on tables groaning in pain some were missing limbs. Adelram breathed out and approached the tents. He vowed he would do all he could he began his work saving more of his brothers to the surprise of other apothecaries.

He stabilized several of his brothers and then he heard shouts. A sergeant of one of the squads within the 11th company came into the tent "Apothecary Adelram." Adelram perked up stitching up his brother while doing so, Adelram could see he was slightly panting and various parts of his power armour had large to small holes. The sergeant wiped a small amount of sweat off his brow "It's the lieutenant come quickly please!"

Adelram nodded "Take me to him." As he walked out of the tent he saw Lieutenant Varion being supported by two Astartes he was drenched in blood and there were various holes in his armour. Adelram rushed over to him he looked at him assessing his injuries Adelram swore he was dying he had to operate on him now he looked up to the two Astartes carrying Varion "Take him to an empty tent we don't have time!" The two Astartes nodded they carried him to an empty tent Adelram followed.

The two Astartes then placed Lieutenant Varion on the table, Adelram activated his mechanical saw to quickly remove his armour. His chest and shoulders bore several large holes. Adelram cursed thinking he opened varion up his bones were shattered and organs were ruptured. Adelram began cleaning away the blood, and stemming the bleeding once this was done he began removing the shards piercing Varion's organs and quickly stitching them up as he went along.

At various points Varion's pulse dropped off, at times he came back other times Adelram had to resuscitate him. When Adelram removed the last shard and stitched the last organ. He began cleaning away the excess blood. Varion's pulse was still weak. Yet he was stabilized. Adelram closed him up. Adelram took a breath he felt a tap on his shoulder it was the two Astartes who supported varion his brother said "You did good work Apothecary Adelram, the captain would be pleased."
Adelram looked down at Lieutenant Varion he never talked to him much, honestly he had no idea what he thought of him they rarely spoke." Adelram turned to his brother "I did what I can for now he should be monitored." As adelram said this he heard a shout an astartes outside shouted "Ambush!" Varion reared up slightly Adelram held him down "Don't move Lieutenant you are still injured even if we are Astartes several of your organs were heavily ruptured." Varion cursed "Dam fools followed us!" The two astartes in the tent ran outside.
Varion was breathing heavily "They seek to kill you. They seek to kill the apothecaries here." Adelram blinked rapidly under his helmet "What? Why?" Varion weakly shook his head "They must of figured out the value we placed in you. For the apothecaries are largely keeping us fighting in this conflict." Varion held his chest trying to sit up, Adelram held him down "As I said don't move Lieutenant." Varion grit his teeth "Adelram take my bolter and lead those outside."

Adelram shook his head "What about you? My du-" Varion shook his head "If they ransack this camp it could cripple us." Adelram clinched his fist "Why should I lead?" Varion smiled again "I watched how you apply yourself, the complaints sent to our Captain honestly I think you were right. It was our brothers who could not handle a young fresh Astartes telling them of their faults and failures. Even now you try to purge your personal faults you have been with us for what? 8 years and look at you, a rising star apothecary perhaps even more than that." Adelram looked to Varion's bolter then back to him and nodded "Yes Lieutenant I shall do what you ask."

Adelram grabbed Varion's bolter and several magazines he watched Varion relax somewhat, yet he saw his pulse getting weaker. Adelram was hesitant for a moment until Varion shouted "Go! that's an order!" Adelram left the tent in silence. He saw Astartes and apothecaries from other companies at the entrance they were in discussion.

Adelram walked over bolter ready. He looked at the Astartes and called out "Who are the sergeants here? A astartes walked over, he gave a small Salute "sergeant Silas apothecary." Another astartes walked forward "sergeant Sebastian." Adelram nodded he walked to the entrance he saw a crowd of human soldiers rushing towards them he opened up his vox link to both squads and the apothecaries. Adelram breathed out "Right I want everyone to form a perimeter, I want heavy bolters on the scaffolding giving us support fire." Another thing "I want assist kills, our weapons are deadly but we have to ensure kills due to the enemy weaponry. we cannot let them get past this point. They injured out brothers let's show these fools what it means to refuse the imperium and the emperor's children!"

The humans came rushing forward guns raised Adelram shouted "Fire at will!" Bolter fire was mowing down the human soldiers the emperor's children followed his directive for assist fire "Arms and bellies were blown open preventing the soldiers from firing their guns yet considering the tide of humans some shots were fired." Adelram watched as the needle hit one of sergeant Sebastian's shoulder pads drilling into the armour then a small explosion. Adelram ran over and took a stimulate from his utility belt and injected it into his brother's arm.

Adelram spoke to him "Can you fire with one hand?" Sebastian nodded "Yes apothecary." Adelram turned and began firing into the crowd of soldiers. Sebastian got up and began firing with one arm some of his shots went wide. The humans finally streamed into the camp Adelram shouted another order "Chainswords and close combat weapons! Heavy bolters continue support fire!" In a single motion all the emperor's children drew their chainswords and knives and began hacking away at the humans.

Three soldiers charged towards him holding blades and pistols, Adelram cursed most likely the pistols are similar to their normal guns. One of the soldiers screamed as they charged him "We will not bend the knee! Tyrants! Monsters!" They hacked away at him Adelram easily dodged the strikes since after all they were still human. Two of the soldiers circled around him one shot their pistol at his leg, Adelram felt the needle enter his leg drilling in and then a sharp pain. Another shot his shoulder pad it was like his shoulder was on fire.
Adelram dropped to one knee all three soldiers leveled their pistols at him it was like time was slowing down. He watched their finger move to the trigger, his mouth went dry not yet he said to himself. He could not let it end here not yet. He can't die now. Adelram whispered under his breath "I can't die he ha-" as he said this all three soldiers began bleeding from their eyes and began coughing blood.

Adelram watched this happen he grunted in pain and stood up and in a quick motion he planted a bolter round in each soldier. They collapsed in a shower of gore their chests blown open. Adelram was breathing heavily he watched the Astartes using heavy bolters firing into the crowd of soldiers trying to enter the camp.

Adelram relayed another order "Push forward!" As his brothers finished hacking apart the last soldier in close combat they edged forwards firing bolters. Yet when Adelram looked into the distance he saw a large figure striding forward and then finally sprinting. It was Fulgrim and the captains along with Lord commander Eidolon. Their armour bore small holes and gashes yet when his primarch fell into the humans his blade danced.

Adelram could see as he moved there was a cold fury behind each sword stroke, each slash. The way he moved it was.. graceful as he was hacking apart the enemy with ease. None escaped. When the final soldier was dead. He walked towards camp Fulgrim looked around and smiled "It pleases me that my sons carried themselves so well. the enemy looked to kill our apothecaries but it seems all are alive and well." Fulgrim walked further into the camp everyone in the camp got into formation. A line of normal Astartes and and a Line of apothecaries.

Fulgrim spoke to some of the apothecaries Sebastian was still trying to stand up right with the injured shoulder Fulgrim stopped and walked over he held his arm "You are injured." Sebastian grit his teeth "I can still fight with one arm my lord." Fulgrim smiled "Yet I want you in perfect condition before you start fighting again."

Fulgrim walked down the line of apothecaries Adelram tensed up, Fulgrim walked passed him and touched another apothecary who was next to him on the soldier "Can you look at Sebastian's arm?" The apothecary nodded "It will be done my lord." The apothecary walked out of the line and took sebastian to one of the tents.

Fulgrim the announced "I took to the field along with Lord Commander Eidolon and his captains to disable their military centres. The government has finally issued their terms of surrender! The administratum ships are coming planetside we move to the next planet!" Fulgrim raised his hand his brothers cheered. Adelram watched his captain was also cheering. Eventually they left since they had to check the other camps.

For some reason Adelram could not bring himself to be happy. It happened again. Adelram walked to Varion's tent, all he heard was a loud long beep. Adelram threw the bolter to the ground and cursed.

Adelram was loading the supplies back onto the thunderhawk. He was frustrated, Augustus heard the news of Varion's death he was not exactly pleased. Yet he did not blame him for his death, that he did all he could. Yet Adelram felt he could of done more. Far more. Enough for him to.. Adelram's thoughts trailed off.

He looked at his leg and shoulder pad oddly the injuries no longer hurt yet he found it odd he healed so quickly. After the three soldiers began bleeding from the eyes he wondered what happened in that moment? Perhaps the humans of this planet have done something to themselves? Adelram dismissed that train of thought. He focused on loading the equipment.

He finally loaded the last piece of equipment. His brothers have told him many times to let the serfs and servitors handle the equipment loading, yet he preferred to handle it himself. To inspect each machinery the apothecaries used before it is loaded on the thunderhawk.
The bay doors closed and the thunderhawk lifted off. For some reason this did not feel like a victory for him.

As Adelram stepped on the ship the frustration did not bleed away he headed straight for his chambers. He sat down at his desk his room was full of medical books and novels written by Moira. He opened a novel. Moira Siraphas finally finished the road to suffering novel. Adelram personally requested a hand written version before they started the war to bring the world under compliance. He finds reading the book tends to calm his nerves and frustration since for some reason deep down he understood what the hero of tale was going through. A hero who was not accepted by his parents, a hero who was not accepted by the people yet he moved to save them anyway. Despite his suffering, the enemies he faced tore at him and he endured great pain yet he kept pushing further. The people would see him, his parents would accept him. He did everything in his power to reach that.

Adelram received the handwritten copy from Moira herself she had long brown hair and green eyes. Also she was fair skinned, she told him that she was doing a book signing for her novel after the battle. Adelram turned the page thinking, as he read the page he bookmarked the page and got up and left his chambers.

The book signing was taking place in one of the entertainment halls within the ship. As he stepped in it was full of people. Yet as he took the first step everyone looked at him and Adelram realized he was the only Astartes there. What happened next was Rembrancers came surging forward requesting that they paint a portrait of him, or read their poem or even listen to their music
.
Adelram grunted in annoyance he gave a slight cough "Please, I am just here to get my book signed excuse me." Adelram had to slightly push himself through the crowd until eventually he reached the table there was a small sign behind Moira displaying her signature where she was sitting. The bodyguard let him cut the line due to being an Astartes as he walked towards Moira she was smiling "Sir Adelram, I am quite happy you enjoyed my book." Adelram smiled under his helmet he wondered why many of his brothers have not read this novel yet looking at the people in the hall it seemed popular. Also according to his captain Fulgrim requested Moira's presence.

Adelram placed his book on the table as she moved to open the book Adelram noticed something odd. Her hands. Adelram instinctively grabbed her hands they were too soft. They don't seem like hands that have handwritten several novels. Adelram furrowed his brows slightly. He looked up at Moira "Apologies I have changed my mind I wish to finish the book first." He could see she was confused yet not offended "I see very well then." She handed the book back to him.

Adelram took the book and left the hall confused. Adelram in the spur of the moment looked up the ship registry of which rooms the rembrancers were staying in. He found Moira Siraphas it was a room in the middle section of the dominion of the phoenix. Adelram made his way to her room he stopped at the door and knocked. Nothing, he knocked again. There was no response.

Adelram knocked even harder, until the door opened slightly it was the woman wearing a red robe. Her voice came out like a squeak "Who is it?" Adelram responded "I am Apothecary Adelram, I came to see Moira Siraphas." The woman blinked Adelram could see her blue eyes under her greasy black hair. The woman shook her head "Moira is doing a signing at the entertainment hall I am just cleaning her things right now." Adelram folded his arms "It can't be her." The woman blinked "Why do you think that is?" Adelram shook his head "It's her hands, her hands don't seem like someone who has hand written several novels. There is no wear on them." The woman opened the door a little be further "So why have you come?"

Adelram smiled under his helmet "To get my book signed by Moira of course." Adelram saw the woman's eyes divert downwards. She then grabbed the side of the door to open it up further in this instant Adelram grabbed her hands she squealed as she did so. Adelram looked at them he could see it the wear and tear of writing hundreds upon hundreds of words.

The woman meekly said "Can you please let go my lord?" Adelram flicked to attention "Apologies and please just call me Adelram right now I am just a fan of your works." The woman open the door fully "Please come in." Adelram stepped into the room there were stacks of papers on the desk.

The woman stepped into the middle of the room jostling slightly as she walked due to her hunchback she turned towards Adelram "I am indeed Moira Siraphas." Adelram felt jubilant and held up his book "May I have your signature please." Moira turned away "No." Adelram frowned "Why?" Moira spoke again "I have help for that." Adelram was confused "I came here to get the signature of the writer who helped inspire me." Moira was silent for a moment she spoke almost in a whisper "What is exactly inspiring about me?"
Adelram held the book "The various meanings in your works, how people suffer and how the characters in your works deal with it. Many people love your works why don't you go sign them yourself?" Moira finally turned to face Adelram again "Look at me Adelram, who would want to see this?" Adelram got confused "See what?"

Moira gave a small laugh "Is that a joke?" Adelram shook his head "I am being perfectly serious." Moira clenched her hands "I look terrible, everyone looks at me and whispers behind my back. The rare few times I leave my room I pretend that I am the help of the person I hired to pretend to be me. They talk of her beauty and her skills as a writer. I even hear my help gets various proposals from my order."

Moira started to walk to her desk "So if you want my signature I hired help for that." Adelram walked forwards and turned her around Moira shifted slightly "What are you doing!" Adelram gripped her hands "When I look at these hands I don't see something ugly. I see something great, I see the work and heart you poured into your stories. They speak to so many people since you in your own way are trying to deal with your own suffering."

Adelram watched her blue eyes well up slightly "Stop saying that. Just..." Adelram laughed beauty is not exactly a blessing either you know. Adelram removed his helmet and placed it on the bed Moira gave a small gasp "My own brothers whisper behind my back about my face also. Due to jealousy of course numerous reports reached my captain causing him to move me about." Adelram gave a gentle smile "Yet your works also made me pursue the path of the apothecary perhaps even further than that. After a hard battle reading your works calms my senses and mind."

Adelram placed his helmet back on "I avoid my brothers in similar ways I tend to always wear my helmet whenever possible. I even voice modulated it due to my brother finding my voice to be too.. gentle." Moira was silent for a moment "So you want your book signed." Adelram nodded he handed Moira his book she walked over to her desk and opened the title page with a flourish she signed his book.

Adelram opened the book and he realized the signature was different he looked up under to her face under the red hood and greasy black hair he thought he caught the look of a smile. Adelram gave a slight bow "Thank you Moira Siraphas." Moira nodded "I gave you my actual signature please look after that book Adelram." Adelram turned to leave he heard Moira call out "Adelram wait.. before you leave would you please visit me again some time?"

Adelram removed his helmet and turned to her and gave smile "Indeed I will." Adelram stepped out of the room he placed his helmet back on. His vox was beeping it was the Captain he wanted to see him.

Adelram walked to his captain's chambers. As he entered his captains chambers Chief Apothecary Fabius was also there, he walked forwards and saluted Augustus nodded "Both Fabius and I have been in discussion about a certain decision." Adelram looked to them both "A certain decision? What decision is that captain?" Augustus sighed "Due to Varion's death we need someone to take his position. I was going to place Damian there but the Chief Apothecary convinced me otherwise." Adelram slowly removed his helmet he was stunned "I am the lieutenant of our company? I haven't been here that long." Fabius gave a grin "True but due to what occurred in the camp and saving many of our legionnaire's from certain death on the operating table I believe you would be suited for the role." Adelram looked to Augustus "Was our Primarch involved in this decision?" Augustus shook his head "No, I was going over candidates, until Fabius approached me about the issue."

Adelram tried not to frown he forced a smile instead and saluted "I will not let either of you down!" Fabius chuckled "Indeed, try not to screw up my student." Augustus nodded "You are dismissed Lieutenant." Adelram turned around and left his captains chambers he stood outside the doors and clenched his fists. He was not satisfied he was not even involved. Perhaps now he was Lieutenant just maybe? Adelram walked back to his chambers the frustration creeping back to his mind again.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/08 16:05:33


Post by: lliu


Nice. I really enjoy reading about the backstory of characters. Not just the lord in armour who is the insanely strong layover, but how he got there and what drives him.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/08 18:36:25


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice. I really enjoy reading about the backstory of characters. Not just the lord in armour who is the insanely strong layover, but how he got there and what drives him.


Thanks, I actually did enjoy writing his backstory I tried to drop hints here and there and then bring it together on how far he will go to get to his objective or in other words for fill his obsession. I decided to dedicate a few chapters to him detailing his background since he appears far more "Normal" compared to the rest of his brothers during the 40k timeline yet he is faaar from that.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/09 16:58:22


Post by: shinros


Chapter 27

Asriel took a treat from the table and ate it chewing looking over what his master has told him so far. He was also quite confused for what reason his primarch took no notice of a rising star. Adelram has said in such a short time frame he was lieutenant of his company and their legion places importance on rank.

Asriel looked up Adelram was silent "So my lord since you became a lieutenant did anything change?" Adelram was silent for a moment more he removed his helmet and placed it on the table. In a rare moment Asriel saw sadness lining his features "No it did not, various important battles and bringing a number of worlds under compliance. He still treated me like I was not even there. Even if I stood right next to my captain he would only talk to him."
Adelram breathed a sigh "Of course a certain event came along which changed our legion. It had been some time since we took the planet but I disliked how long we stayed there." Asriel was going to pick another treat he looked at Adelram "Did your legion change for better or worse?" Adelram shook his head "It did not truly concern me at that time considering after bringing that world under "compliance" in other words killing all the xenos who lived there. My "gifts" started to flair up."

Asriel took a bite out of the treat he chewed for a moment then swallowed "So did anyone else know of your frustrations dealing with your Primarch?" Adelram nodded "Moira Siraphas and my master of course my captain thought I was worrying over nothing and it might be mere accident. At times I wonder why my master shielded me when it came to my powers perhaps to understand truly what a psyker is. Still after that event he also changed not in the same way as my brothers or perhaps he was always like that?"
Adelram stood in front of the door as always he knocked three times lightly on the first, the second time he knocked harder and the third was a slight bang. He always did this to let her know it was him. She opened the door gently "It's you Adelram please come in." Adelram noticed that her hood was obscuring her face more than it usually was.
As he stepped into the room there were stacks of paper on every flat surface in the room. There was a large chair next to her table Moira told him she had it made for him. He appreciated the gesture he did not mind standing but she told him she finds it easier to write when he sits next to her. Moira wobbled over to her desk and sat down, Adelram sat down in the large chair.

Adelram could see she was struggling to write, Adelram removed his helmet "What's the matter Moira?" Moira shook her head "I don't know, this book is important I want to get it right but when I place words on the paper my thoughts become... jumbled." Adelram raised his eyebrow "that's rare for you." Moira placed the pen on the table "I went to the laer temple." Adelram glowered "Please don't be like the rest of the rembrancers trying to gain inspiration from a xeno's temple. I told captain we should bombard it to dust but since my primarch entered he wants everything preserved."

Moira responded her voice a squeak "I am sorry." Adelram sighed "Please I meant nothing by it." Moira shook her head "I am sorry to upset you. Still has there been any progress?" Adelram creased his brow his voice was horse "No." As he said that he felt his chair wobbling slightly he breathed out and the wobbling stopped. Moira looked to the paper "Have you asked anyone why he might be doing that?" Adelram nodded "I have talked to my captain about it he knows me too well when I am frustrated. He thinks I am overthinking it."
Moira started to write on the paper "How about the chief apothecary? He is the lieutenant commander and your teacher after all." Adelram placed his hand on his chin thinking "I think he might just laugh to be honest and he would say that I should worry about other things." Adelram watched Moira write a few words then screwed up the paper in frustration, Adelram leaned forward trying to look at her face he was still curious why she wore her hood so tightly over her head. Moira noticed that he was looking more closely Moira turned away. Adelram confused said "What's the matter? you never turned away like this before?"
Moira shook her head "It's nothing." Adelram reached over to grab her hood he placed her hand on her head trying to move his hands away "Please.." Adelram gently moved her hands aside and removed her red hood he moved her hair aside Adelram saw she was wearing make up it neatly lined her eyes and lips. A sense of puzzlement was coming to him "You never decided to wear makeup before. What happened?" Moira was silent looking at him to Adelram it seemed like she was expecting something.

Adelram sat back in the chair still puzzled, he watched Moira silently placing her hood back on she got a fresh piece of paper and began writing again there was a moment of silence until Moira began speaking. Her voice was calm but Adelram caught a trace of sadness "You know, I was from a noble family on Terra. When I was born like this my parents locked me in a room servants came and went bringing me only meals and books. I only had books to teach me of what was outside." What Adelram noticed as she spoke she began writing far more sentences than usual Moira continued Adelram listened "So I started writing, characters dealing with a similar situation to what I had to deal with. As a young girl I had no idea why my parents locked me away." More traces of sadness lined her voice "Then a few years later my mother and father came to my room showing me that I had a new sister. They told me my room now belongs to her. That I will be leaving soon, to pack my things and leave."

Adelram wanted to say something wondering what sort of parents would do such a thing to their child he did not want to interrupt her. Moira licked her lips "They gave me a large sum of money and a briefcase and I was forced out of the house. The first thing I did was buy a small apartment. I was angry, angry at everyone even then people gave me looks. Or whispered behind my back. The adults would whisper she is hideous! And children would laugh and shout a monster! Mommy, Daddy! I saw a monster!"

Adelram looked at the paper she finished writing a whole page and she moved to a fresh one "So I stayed in my small apartment and did the only thing I ever knew to do which was read and write. I poured my frustration and my wants into my story until I finished my first book. Money was draining away perhaps in desperation or naivety I thought to use majority of the funds I had left to publish it. Then one day I received a letter a finely written letter."
Moira opened her desk and pulled out an envelope it was purple she handed it to Adelram, Adelram looked at the envelope he turned it around and noticed the broken seal he recognized it. The sigil of the emperor's children. Adelram opened the letter the handwriting was neat without a single mistake or each syllable on the letter was written perfectly. He looked down to see the sender. He saw a name Fulgrim. Adelram handed the letter and envelope back to Moira.

She continued writing "I soon joined the remembrancer order and joined fulgrim's fleet. Of course soon after that my parents sought to contact me hoping to use me to increase their influence. Even so I rejected them. Now Adelram have you done everything you could yet? Or are you still afraid that your want will never come to pass?" Adelram sat in the chair in silence he could see Moira now moved to the third page, Adelram gave a heavy sigh "I will speak to the chief apothecary. Thank you Moira." Adelram stood up and turned to leave he stopped "Moira who are you writing the book for?" Moira kept writing in silence, Adelram heard a pen being placed on the table "After the events of the laer temple Lord Fulgrim requested another novel. Considering how much he has done for me how could I turn such a request down?" Adelram looked down then up "I see, still I will see you later."

Adelram left the room the fleet was together he could take a thunderhawk to the pride of the emperor. Adelram made his way to the docking bay he made a request to a pilot to go to the pride of the emperor. As Adelram was moving between the ships something dawned on him Moira had far more contact with his primarch than he has. He chuckled slightly perhaps he does need to do more.

The Thunderhawk landed, Adelram gave thanks to the pilot and left as he walked the halls of the ship he caught discussions of some of the rembrancers that many have some sort of artist block. They can't finish certain works of art or music anymore. They find some inadequacy there or small imperfection. Adelram grunted in annoyance he guessed that many of the rembrancers explored the xeno's temple. Even members of his company took to exploring them as well even his captain. Adelram largely had no interest and how no time to even visit it due to the fact is he spent most of his time removing prognoid glands or ensuring his brothers did not die due to the alien weaponry.

As he was thinking he saw someone in the distance walking towards him he recognized him it was lord commander Eidolon. Adelram stopped and stood at the wall and saluted letting him pass by, Eidolon cape was being carried by three attendants as he walked. He stopped and looked at Adelram "So lieutenant Adelram I am surprised to see you here. What business do you have on the pride of emperor?" Adelram kept up the salute "I am here to see the Chief Apothecary Lord commander." Eidolon smiled "Ah I just left Fabius abode he seemed quite absorbed with dissecting the laer." Adelram shifted slightly when Eidolon said that he noticed it and smiled "Do you disapprove?" Adelram wanted to look away but he spoke his mind "Not exactly, I feel many are too absorbed with the xeno's we should bombard their temple their culture to dust." Eidolon gave a small laugh "I see even if they are detestable xeno's they had some great works of art in the temple or do you disagree?" Adelram was silent, Eidolon gave a wry grin "Or perhaps you have no interest in art Lieutenant? How odd I wonder if our primarch would be displeased if he learns one of his lieutenants have no interest in developing their artistic sense?" Adelram felt a tinge of anger building he held his salute yet the lights in the hall suddenly flickered for a few seconds and returned to normal. Eidolon pouted "We will have to have the tech priests look at that. Now Adelram? You are terran aren't you?" Adelram nodded "Indeed I am Lord commander." Adelram watched Eidolon place his hand on his chin "Your name in terran from my understanding also means "dark" and "noble".

Adelram nodded again "Indeed lord commander." Eidolon kept up his wry grin " I wonder what is dark and noble about you?" Eidolon shook his head "At ease lieutenant you satisfied my curiosity." Adelram dropped his salute he watched Eidolon briskly walk away without another word.

Adelram clenched his fists he breathed out to calm himself he continued down the corridor to Fabius lab. He stopped at the doors and looked up to the camera's the doors slowly slid open. As he stepped in he saw his master at work removing the organs of the laer. The shelves were lined with organs and there was large jars filled with blood. He watched Fabius place an organ in the jar and finally Fabius turned around.

Adelram looked at Fabius it seemed like he has been working for hours non stop, Adelram was about to speak but Fabius spoke first "Come over Adelram." Adelram walked towards the table he looked at the reptilian xenos it's body cut open organs removed. Adelram wondered what was Fabius hoping to learn. Fabius held up an organ and smiled "This species was quite interesting my student. Extensive genetic modification no wonder they gave us so much trouble."

Fabius bought the organ down again "What do you think my student? What do you see?" Adelram looked at the xeno's he was filled with disgust yet his mind moved to answer the question "I see flawed xeno's trying to purge themselves of imperfection. Yet that will never happen considering what they are." Fabius gave a frown "Yes you are partly right but as they are now they are far above humanity." Adelram looked up shocked "Above human-" Fabius held up a hand "Of course they are, it took a lot to finally deal with them and that was only a planet worth of the species imagine if they controlled a system? Even we Astartes struggled to face them. Think of the time you become lieutenant? We struggled to face mere humans wielding somewhat effective guns. We have a long way to go."

Adelram did not know what to say to think such a thing. It was.. he could not find the exact words for what his master was saying. Adelram looked at the laer "So what are you hoping to do master?" Fabius grin returned to his features for some reason it unsettled Adelram "I am hoping to improve our legion. Of course I have the primarch's blessing." Adelram's mouth went dry to improve upon the work of the emperor? It was, this is...

Fabius placed the organ on a shelf "Adelram out of many I have taught you are a smart individual. Hence why I let you see what I am working on here since for now our primarch has me working in secret. Things are changing." Adelram was silent he has noticed things are changing the human crew are changing even his own brothers.

Fabius turned around "Now why are you here?" Adelram perked up then he remembered why he came here he was not sure whether to say it. Fabius folded his arms and tapped his feet "Spit it out, I don't have all day." Adelram cast his gaze away "It's about our primarch." Fabius raised his eyebrow "What about him?" Adelram looked at Fabius his teacher "Has he mentioned me at any point?" Fabius shrugged "No he has not. Why do you ask?"

Adelram bit his lip under his helmet he took a breath "I think he is purposely ignoring me." Fabuis snickered "Why do you think that then?" Adelram removed his helmet "No matter what I do, no matter how hard I try he treats me like I am not there. Even before this battle he talked with each of the captains and lieutenants who went down to the Laer planet. He deigned not a word to me. He only spoke to my captain."

Fabius chuckled "I see what it is. I finally now understand why you have so much drive and focus. My you are such a child." Adelram shook his head "I am not a child. I am merely curious why this is occurring since you are the Lieutenant commander and chief apothecary I thought.." Fabius gave an unsettling grin "My oh my I never expected you to be that way. Oh dear, a child baying for the attention of his father." Fabius placed his hand on his chin thinking he murmured to himself "Perhaps this occurrence is part of our genetics? Hmm." Adelram clenched his fist "I am not acting like a child master!"

At that moment there was a pop in the room one of the organs that was placed in a jar exploded. Fabius looked in the direction "How did that happen?" Adelram said through clenched teeth "I am doing all that I can when clearly I have the skills to do something he turns to another! When I achieve something he turns away and when he normally has to address me he addresses my captain!" As he said this another jar popped on the shelf. He looked up to see Fabius staring at the broken jar and then back to him.

Adelram looked at his master a sense of morbid curiosity was lining his features. Adelram placed his helmet back on he wanted to leave he began walking to the doors Fabius called out "Wait!" Adelram stopped and turned around. Fabius began stroking his chin his face twisted to Adelram he had the face of a mad scientist. Fabius said "So Adelram? I never knew you were an attention seeker." Adelram shook his head whenever Fabius said his name he knew it was something bad or a reprimand "I am not a-" another jar popped.

Fabius shrugged and shook his head "Indeed you are, I wonder what would happen if I informed our primarch of this." Adelram's breathing increased the lights in the room flickered and rows upon rows of jars popped in turn. Adelram turned around in a hurry "I am leaving." Adelram walked to the doors yet they would not open he turned to see Fabius pressing a series of buttons on his wrist he smiled "You are not leaving my student."

Fabius gestured to an empty operating table "Now would you please lie here." Adelram stood in silence against better judgement he lay on the table he would not dare to strike his master or if he attempted to leave he feared what he would say to Fulgrim. Fabius removed his helmet and smiled "When I look at your face it does surprise me how close you look to our primarch. Of course the features are slightly different." Adelram was breathing heavily "What are you going to do?" Fabius tapped his finger on his chin "Well I am going to see how you did that. I already have a guess" Fabius walked over to his drawers and pulled out a device he rested a strange black helmet on Adelram's head it only reached his forehead.

Fabius then pulled out a device with a small screen and connected it to the black helmet. As he did so Fabius smiled "Your brain waves are quite erratic my student." Adelram watched fabius lick his lips he watched the small screen for several minutes. Fabius then looked to him and gave his signature grin "It seems I found an irregularity. I will inform our primarch on what I found." Adelram shouted "Don't!" On another shelf more jars exploded.

Adelram saw Fabius nodding in understanding he showed him the screen displaying his brain waves "You see my student whenever it comes to our primarch or your obsession. Your brain waves spike and you affect the world around you." As Fabius said this something was dawning on Adelram's mind a strange emotion was filling his twin hearts he breathed a whisper "It can't be. It's a lie. It's impossible..." Fabius nodded somehow hearing his words "Indeed it's so you bear the psyker gene. From my understanding certain events can trigger it. Some are born into it. Most curious was how this got by the apothecaries during your recruitment. We made sure to avoid recruiting any psykers."

Adelram grit his teeth "Master can you remove it." Fabius shook his head "I cannot but I am most curious on understanding how it works your brain waves are quite different compared to the other legionnaire's in our legion. This is a rare opportunity." Adelram bit his lip "Don't tell him. Please!" Fabius chuckled "Don't worry my student I won't tell him or your captain. Still from now on you must come to me when I call you. As I said this is an opportunity I cannot let slip by." Adelram relaxed he knew deep down his master wanted to research him. Yet a part of him did not mind.

Fabius removed the devices and bade Adelram to sit up. Adelram got off the operating table looking at all the smashed jars "Apologies master." Fabius scoffed "Do not worry I have plenty more Laer I can harvest. You may leave." Adelram turned to leave until Fabius stopped him "Oh yes on our primarch ignoring you and your childish obsession? Who knows what is going through his mind these past few days. Perhaps it's one of his games?"

As Fabius said this he was not sure whether he felt better by his words he nodded "Thank you master." Adelram turned to leave and returned to the dominion of the phoenix.

Asriel stopped writing for a moment he looked at Adelram he seemed tired. Asriel gave a smile "Is something wrong?" Adelram shook his head "Speaking of these events to someone for the first time is... tiring." Asriel raised an eyebrow "Really?" Adelram leaned back in the chair "Indeed so. From that point things got even worse everything came to a head on Isstvan III. A foolish governor rebelled 4 legions were sent to crush it. Back then I had no idea yet even then perhaps I fell along with my brothers without realizing it. All I had was my obsession." Asriel moved his pen back to the page he looked up "What of the chief apothecary?"

Adelram gave a small chuckle "Well he did a host of experiments nothing lethal of course. Said experiments lead to strange dreams. He did various treatments and experiments to stimulate my brain waves. A part of me was hoping he was going to remove it." Asriel looked at Adelram he wondered if he felt any regret and in that moment he felt like he read his mind or perhaps he did. Adelram shook his head "I do not feel any regret Asriel. Now.. where was I?"

Adelram was going over the medical notes of his company in his room over time he realized many of his brothers were "changed" he detected new organs, body modifications and a host of other changes. Yet he did not breathe a word of any of this to anyone. Or perhaps everyone knew what was happening. Even his captain must be aware of what's going on he sighed.

Nothing has changed as always he ignored him. The fleet was heading to the Isstvan system along with the Sons of horus, World Eaters and the Death guard. They were ordered to crush a rebellion. Yet Adelram could not help but feel on edge he then heard a knock on his door.

He got up and opened it, surprisingly it was captain Augustus he never visited his room if he ever needed something he normally put out a vox for him to come to his chambers. Adelram let Augustus in. He looked around "Your room is quite plain do you know that? Books everywhere." Adelram watched his captain ever since the battle with the laer he started to glitter slightly. He wonder if he placed it on his skin himself or it was a body modification.

Augustus rested his hand on his sword pommel and turned to Adelram "I have come to give you your orders." Adelram nodded "I see, what our my orders then?" Adelram watched his captain give a joyful smile "Our lord commander has deigned me to inform you that you will be taking half our company on the first assault of Isstvan III." Adelram was surprised "Leading half the company on the first assault?" Augustus nodded "Indeed so, perhaps you might be a captain soon think of it as a test then."

Adelram moved to sit down, Augustus stood there impassively "You are not happy Lieutenant?" Adelram shook his head "I am captain I thank you for the honour it's just these dreams lately have been bothering me." Adelram watched his captain raise his eyebrow "Dreams?" Adelram nodded indeed so "One that keeps coming up again and again." Adelram could see his captain wanted to just give the order and leave but Adelram spoke just before he was about to turn around "Just... listen please."

Augustus shook his head and sat down on one of the spare chairs "Speak then." Adelram nodded "It's of a boy well a rather young boy on terra. He is staring at a large pict screen of the space marine legions showing each of the primarch's. Slaying xeno's or conquering worlds." Augustus stroked his beard "I see and why is the boy staring at it?" Adelram then removed his helmet "Well... he wanted to be one. He liked the purple ones the best he liked the one with the "large" man with long white hair, yet there was problem." Augustus raised his eyebrow "A problem?" Adelram nodded "Yes there was since it was known on terra emperor's children largely took noble sons. The boy was not strong and he was rather poor he was distraught."

Adelram could see his captain was getting rather bored but he continued "You see, he had barely any money since his parents died and went to thievery living hand to mouth. Yet an idea dawned on him." In puzzlement Augustus said "What sort of idea?" Adelram flatly said "He decided to kill a noble son and steal his clothes." Augustus eyes went wide "Please continue your story Adelram."

Adelram nodded "The boy waited since many noble sons come to torment the poorer kids of the districts on terra. To laud their status over them. So the boy got a knife and waited they normally had a guard when they walked the streets so he waited on a small scaffolding. The boy leaped on the guard and drove his knife into the nape of his neck and twisted."

Adelram creased his brow slightly "You see the guard was dead and the young noble boy was mewling on the floor begging not to kill him. The boy did not care but he had to do the deed quickly before he soiled the clothes." Adelram could see his captain was far more interested in the events of the dream. Adelram gave a sad smile "So he killed him, of course there was a problem he got blood on the white shirt he was going to steal from the corpse. So he used his life savings and the money on both corpses to buy a fresh shirt and soup. He wanted to look presentable of course." As Adelram said this his captain laughed slightly "Apologies Adelram please continue."

Adelram nodded "So the boy prepared himself and went to the emperor's children mustering grounds on terra. When he approached the plaza a man in a purple robe stopped him he asked the boy why he was there and where he was from." Augustus raised his eyebrow "What did the boy say?" Adelram placed his hand on his chin "He lied of course, he said he came from a minor noble family that owned a small mining business. Of course he gave a fake name there are so many noble families on terra and the boy looked the part. The boy did see the man walk over to the space marines and whisper something perhaps they suspected something and did not care? Or perhaps they thought a low-born would have no chance of being compatible?"

As Adelram said this he noticed Augustus shift in his seat slightly, Adelram looked to him "Is something wrong captain?" Augustus shook his head "Nothing, I was just thinking of something." Adelram nodded "I see, anyway the process began the Apothecary began going through the boys injecting a needle gun after few moments it would chime red or green. Reds were put into one group and green into another." Augustus stroked his chin and mused "They are checking the compatibility rate with our gene-sire's gene seed." Adelram nodded "Indeed so, yet what happened next in a rare occurrence the boy prayed. He did not know why he did nor did he care who heard. He prayed with all his might. Let him be chosen he wants to be a space marine. He wants to join the emperor's children."
For some reason Adelram's mouth felt dry as he spoke "So eventually the apothecary reached the boy he rolled up his sleeve and placed the needle in his arm. It chimed green of course the boy did not realize what just occurred. Yet when it happened the Apothcary removed the needle gun and injected again. It chimed green. He seemed confused and did it one more time." Adelram watched his captain face turn stony he wondered what he was thinking.

Adelram continued "The apothecary walked away and discussed something with several other space marines. One looked quite important the apothecary was speaking to him personally. The apothecary came back and placed the boy in the green group. That... is when things went fuzzy for me Captain and the dream ends." Adelram turned to Augustus "So what do you think?" Augustus licked his lips "Adelram may I finish your story?" Adelram shrugged I don't see why not.

Augustus gave a slight cough "After that the marines discussed the events of the gathering the people in the red group would serve the legion. The green would become space marines but the curiosity was the boy." Adelram raised his eyebrow "Why would that be?" Augustus scratched the back of his head "You see one boy among the group had 98.9% compatibility rate with Fulgrim's gene seed." Adelram placed his hand on his chin "That is incredibly rare never heard of such a high number." Augustus nodded "So he was trained, the important marine there made sure to watch him. That boy had a strange intensity he wanted him in his company. When the gene seed implementation began he returned larger with white hair yet he did not remember the exact events of his training or recruitment things were a blur. Oddly enough but the important marine accepted it. Of course he caused trouble sometimes but he had a drive a strange one." Augustus sighed "That's it." Augustus stood up and looked at Adelram "Your orders are being changed." Adelram raised his eyebrow "Changed?" Augustus nodded "You are to remain on the ship for now. I will have someone else lead."
Adelram was confused "Captain what is going on? Something is.. odd." Adelram watched his captain grip his blade handle more tightly "Adelram. What if I told you hypothetically that there was rebellion among the legions?" Adelram looked to his medical notes detailing the changes in his brothers he said "Very well. You expect me to answer? In this hypothetical situation Captain what side is the emperor's children on?" Augustus was silent for a moment "We.. are not on the side of the emperor any longer." Adelram felt his heart beating faster he closed his eyes "What side is our Primarch on in this hypothetical situation? Is he with the emperor?" Augustus shook his head "He is with us..." Adelram's flatly said "I see."
Adelram watched Augustus move his blade slightly, Adelram said something that surprised his captain "Then all is well then. Isn't it?" Adelram watched his captain let go of his blade. Augustus face was stony "As I said Adelram you are staying on the ship." Adelram nodded "Yes captain." Adelram then watched Augustus smile return to his features "Indeed all is well." Adelram was surprised to see Augustus breathe a sigh of relief. He then nodded and left his chambers.

Adelram sat in silence the ramifications of what they are doing. Yet his primarch was against the emperor so perhaps he is doing this for the right reason? He looked to Moira's book on the table. Adelram left his room in a hurry he rushed to Moira's room he knocked three times. Nothing. He knocked again. There was no response using his hands he tore the door open.
Adelram walked towards the desk he saw a piece of paper at the center of the desk it was a finely written letter. It was addressed to him, Adelram picked it up and read it. The letter was from Moira It said she went to the pride of the emperor to deliver to Fulgrim the novel he requested. Adelram held the note an alien emotion was entering his twin hearts Yet his captain told him not to leave the ship. Adelram's mouth was dry. He sat in the chair wondering what to do. He laughed he knew that they betrayed the emperor a long time ago.
When he saw his masters experiments and the very fact it was with the primarch's blessing. Yet it did not feel "wrong" to him. Fulgrim must have his reasons and he will follow him that's all he could do. Yet he was also worried for Moira considering how all his brothers were changing for the worst. Adelram kept laughing endlessly within Moira's room.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/11 00:55:10


Post by: shinros


Chapter 28
Adelram stopped speaking, he stretched "I feel so much better now, perhaps going to our imminent deaths won't be so bad." Asriel stopped writing "Why do you think we are going to die?" Adelram shrugged "Well first we have to get past the blockade and get into the eye of terror, second when we reach the space station Abbadon may kill us for whatever impertinence or slight we inflicted upon him or the worst outcome he asks us to do something." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Why would him asking us to do something be the worst outcome?" Adelram creased his brow "Well my servant it's just that whatever he asks us to do we will most likely die horrifically doing whatever task he requests."

Asriel scratched the back of his head with his pen "Can't you just refuse?" Adelram shook his head "There is no refusing Abaddon but when I do meet him no weakness cannot be shown." Adelram fell silent and relaxed in the chair "Well the blockade should not be hard considering the skills of the captain." Asriel picked up another treat as he was about to put it in his mouth he asked a question "So who is the captain and Lily?" Asriel then placed the treat in his mouth and began chewing.

Adelram leaned back "Well you recall in the earliest part of my history? The event that started all of this? The captain bloodline is from that system. You see they took pride in void warfare and ground warfare. They sought perfection through war. One interesting fact is that they practiced eugenics quite heavily. To produce the best captains and soldiers for their army. They thought they were the pinnacle until they met the emperor's children." Asriel finished eating "I see. So where is Lily's parents?"
To Asriel it seemed Adelram seemed distant when he spoke "Well they betrayed us during a raid they sought to flee to the imperials with Lily perhaps fake an identity of some form and seek any sort of life with them. She was but a baby then, Silas captured them and brought them back. I was going to execute them both but the Captain wanted to handle it himself. Still I head to steady the pistol for him due to his age." Asriel closed his journal "So he is that loyal?" Adelram nodded "Indeed he is, you see in their minds they swore fealty to Fulgrim not to the emperor and the imperium. They swore themselves to us. Both of them running is breaking that fealty."

Adelram stood up, Asriel watched Adelram turn around and looked at the chair for a few moments until he finally turned back to him he gave a small smile. Asriel wondered what he was thinking "What's the matter master?" Adelram gave the chair a small rub "You see the chair I was sitting on was the one Moira had made for me of course I had it repaired several times due to the years going by but even to this day I wonder what happened to her." Asriel was surprised when he said that "So you don't know where Moira is?" Adelram nodded "I do not. I assume she is long dead considering the depths my Legion was falling to at the time and the fact she went to the pride of the emperor. Fulgrim's Flagship, also it's been over ten thousand years. For me and many others here it's only been about a century due to staying within the warp."

Asriel could not help but feel sad for some reason part of him hoped she would still be alive considering it seems like his lord seems to still care for her. Adelram then grabbed his helmet and placed it on his head. He sighed "It will be some time before we hit the Cadian blockade you should get some rest."

Asriel sat up and hooked his Journal around his arm and left with Adelram. After a few minutes of walking the corridors of the ship they went their separate ways. Adelram told him that he wanted to finish an experiment before they got to the station. Asriel nodded he did not want to take up anymore of his masters time. So he head back to his room.
Asriel sat on his bed he found since joining with Meliva he did not feel tired that often or needed much rest either. He still felt it was quite odd that Meliva has been quiet for quite some time. He wondered if she was plotting something, Asriel then heard her voice "I am not plotting anything so don't worry your little head." Asriel felt that familiar spike when she spoke it was not painful but the sensation was rather pleasant.

He wondered if he should feel revealed? He had to remain on guard, Adelram told him to stay in control. As Asriel was thinking he heard on a knock on his door. Asriel got up from his bed and opened the door. It was Amethyst she did not visit him once since Cortva, yet she bore her signature smile.

She walked into the room, Asriel could see she changed her look parts of her hair was dyed and she wore makeup. Asriel wondered what she was here for, Amethyst walked to the middle of his room and turned towards him "Asriel I need to ask a favor." Asriel raised his eyebrow "A favor?" Amethyst nodded "Yes... may I borrow your Journal?" Asriel was surprised at the request.

Asriel held his journal in his hands "What do you need it for?" Amethyst smiled "I need to make a new drink. You see you have a lot of information on neverborn in there and I have no desire to go to the fanatics for anything." Asriel looked to his journal again thinking he heard small echoes of laughter in his head Meliva then hissed "We should kill her.". Asriel shook his head and smiled "Fine. How long will you have it for?" Amethyst held her hands together her faced beamed "Just for a few hours that's it. Asriel hand me your datapad." Asriel handed his datapad to her she pressed a few buttons and handed it back "These are directions to my room since funny enough you never been there before don't want you to get lost."

Asriel nodded and handed his journal to Amethyst it was odd handing his journal to someone else. He gave Amethyst a look it was not a threatening one at least he hoped it did not appear so, Asriel said "Please look after it." Amethyst nodded and smiled she then left the room. Asriel was then by himself again he lay on his bed thinking and tried to rest. He then felt Meliva speaking "Do you trust her?" Asriel glowered "Why should I trust you?" Meliva snickered "Of course not, I do say at this moment your master and the crone you dislike are far more trustworthy right now."

Asriel tried to sleep Meliva's words still ringing in his mind.
Asriel felt like he was falling deeper and deeper into darkness at one point he could not move yet his body burned it was like his veins were on fire. Then in a second moment he was in a small cage. It was cramped yet he felt sadness not anger he grabbed the bars of the cage he blinked he saw a woman walking forward.
Asriel blinked rapidly sweating. He sat up he took out his datapad and looked at the time its been ten hours. He normally did not sleep for that long perhaps it was the dream? He thought of Amethyst she said she just wanted to borrow his Journal for a few hours. Asriel got off his bed, he wanted his Journal back.

As he left the room he pulled out his data pad again and looked at the directions he followed them he walked the corridors until he came to double doors. He wondered how big Amethyst room actually was. He knocked and the doors automatically slid open. As Asriel stepped in the room had a strange scent also the room was far larger than his one. He saw Amethyst at her desk surrounded by several bottles. She turned around and smiled "Sorry about this, but it's for your own good Asriel." Asriel was confused he walked forward and soon felt a surging pain he dropped to his knees it was pure agony.

It felt like his body was on fire he felt the change coming he gasped "What is happening!?" Meliva screeched "Kill her! She harms us! Kill her now!" Asriel talons shot out but he felt weak all of his energy it felt like it was being drawn away.

He felt tired, weak even. He collapsed on the ground he heard people entering the room and the muffling of voices. He needed to move when he struggled he just felt a surge of pain. Asriel stopped moving he was breathing heavily. The muffling of voices continued and a few moments afterwards he felt a surge of agony his veins were on fire the pain went on for an age he could not breathe yet the pain would not stop. After a moment darkness filled his vision.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/14 01:46:41


Post by: shinros


Small note I am going through the previous chapters fixing the various spelling mistakes. Eh bloody word pad. :<

Next chapter should be up soon.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/14 12:45:18


Post by: lliu


Haha ok. Looking forward to it!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/14 15:17:46


Post by: shinros


Chapter 29

Asriel awoke in a room the lights were flickering he still could not move he tried to move his head. It was painful to do so it felt like there was a great pressure on him. As he looked forward he saw a man in black robes sitting surrounded by two other robed people. There were two men standing on the right and left of the robed people. One wore combat gear and another had purple skin wearing a gas mask with small parchment lining his gear. He also saw Amethyst in the corner trying to look away.

Through clenched teeth Asriel said "What is going on?" Asriel then heard a small laugh from the robed man "You always were a fool weren't you number? Things were going so well until you woke up." Asriel recognised his voice he felt his eyes changing, Asriel hissed "Agoston." Agoston pulled back his hood "Indeed so, you see there are many parties concerned with your predicament. I took quite some time to plan this considering your nature." Asriel tried to look in Amethyst direction "Why?" Again she tried to not make eye contact.
Agoston then got up from the chair "You see these two fellows are also from the house sin. They also represent groups that wish.. to see your end. You see since you came along he spends far more time with you than us. Things are moving since we are meeting with the warmaster you will get in the way of that. Our lord needs someone worthy to help him during this time. Another problem now has occurred the harlot has entered our masters circle. In time she shall be dealt with." Amethyst shot up "That's not what you said! You said you would remove it!" Agoston looked to the two armed men "Please make her quiet, Albert and..." Asriel could see there was a tinge of disgust as he said "Larry." Albert sighed "Right. Remember our agreement witch." Agoston nodded "Of course I do, you wish to see Jedrick's favourite dead so you can take his place." Larry then stepped forward "I am only doing this since it's ordained nothing more." Larry turned to Asriel and gave a curt nod "Apologies Asriel, Ivan still has many followers even with his death. Adelram is a false prophet. A false leader. He said it will take Asriel death for us to rise to greatness so I shall for fill his last request."

Asriel could see Amethyst was shocked. Asriel wondered why would Amethyst trust them? Why would she betray him? His thoughts trailed Meliva then roared within his mind "Kill them!, Flay Them!, Tear our their eyes and souls!" The spikes within his mind were now painful he watched as Albert gun bucked Amethyst into the corner.

Asriel watched Agoston pull out a familiar book he looked through the pages. As Agoston was looking through the book Asriel grew angry. He has no right. He whispered to himself. He could sense that Meliva was smiling "That's it just a little bit more..." Agoston face screwed into disgust "What are you? The lord's dote and adore you. Even now I can see detailed history of our Lord. Why does he trust you?" Asriel felt his teeth changing into fangs his voice came out in a distorted mix of his voice mixed with Meliva's "You dare..." Agoston then opened his palm it glowed purple and then Asriel felt like he was on fire. Agoston smirked "I had the ritual circled prepared just for you. So don't bother trying anything fool. Anyway we made it through the blockade and making our way to the space station. By the time we reach there you will vanish none will mourn you. None shall miss you."
Agoston then sat back down on the chair Amethyst shouted "Leave him be!" Agoston glowered "Why do you care for the creature? After what I hear he made you do in that xeno camp." Amethyst looked down "That's why I want the neverborn gone." Agoston laughed "Is it love I hear?" Asriel struggled further "Release me now..." Agoston shook his head "No, no I want you to beg. I am going to teach you your place before I kill you. Don't worry you can scream we are near the slave blocks." Amethyst narrowed her eyes at Agoston "You think he won't suspect something even if he vanishes? Also he can read your mind." Agoston smirked "Of course he will he will suspect but he will have no clear culprit many people want the number dead. On the mind reading? There was an agreement with the Harlot and the many parties within the house of sin on dealing with Asriel she taught us techniques to deal with mind reading."

Agoston shrugged "As I said this plan has been in motion for quite some time. His death will be a minor annoyance nothing more since unlike the other members of our house. Lord Adelram has not invested any arcane knowledge or secrets in him."
Agoston raised his hand again the pain surged into Asriel's body, Meliva hissed "We should push further kill everyone here. If not we will die." As Meliva said this a small fear was gripping his heart, Asriel said under his breath "The master said to keep control." Meliva screeched "We will die!" Agoston clenched his hand the pain stopped.

Agoston stroked his chin "Hmm what would truly get to you I wonder?" Agoston looked at Asriel's Journal he opened a page "The history of our lord. You are not worthy to hear his words or write them." Agoston placed his hand on the page, Asriel then heard a slight tear his head shot up looking at Agoston it was like time was moving more slowly. Finally he watched him remove the page.

He waved the page in his hand then it ignited in purple flames the page was burnt to ash. Asriel watched this happen his mind went blank. He watched as Agoston pulled another page and burnt it then another he laughed "Now Lord Jedrick, quite interesting I wonder why you find the dullard so interesting." Albert turned slightly as he said it and turned back to Amethyst. He tore a fistful of pages out and burnt them within his hand.

As Asriel watched this happen he rose he felt the pain of circle but the pain he was feeling in his heart and body eclipsed that, watching what Agoston was doing. His eye twitched he watched Agoston shoot up from the chair "How did you do that!?" Asriel gave an unnatural roar, black horns erupted from his head. His hands reached forward yet he felt a sizzle like a wall was there most likely the ritual circle.

Asriel tore at the wall tearing chunks of energy away it flickered. Agoston pointed in his direction "Shoot him! Shoot him now!" Albert, Larry and the two hooded sin members levelled their auto guns at him. They fired, bullets riddled his body Asriel collapsed to his knees. Agoston wiped his brow with a handkerchief "See Amethyst? Why protect that creature? He is long gone if it was a lesser shard it could be removed. Yet a greater one? There is no hope. He is just a valuable attack dog for our lord" Asriel slowly raised his head he could see Amethyst turn away. Blood was dripping down his robes he then screamed "More Meliva let me kill them!" Asriel then felt Meliva expanding he seized up. Asriel rose to his feet, Asriel could see his skin was changing colour he then tore a large chunk of the wall with his talons.

There was a large hole he could now smell their fear. Agoston pointed at him "Kill him! Kill him now!" Asriel watched them raising their guns it was like they were in slow motion he kept tearing with his talons until he could slip through the wall. His body was wracked with pain due to the bullets. Yet what he did what was unforgivable, what they did is unforgivable. Asriel launched himself forward, the two sin members tried to fire again Asriel ducked in a split second their bullets hitting the wall. Asriel bound forward clawing the throat out of the first, he turned and punched the face of the second shattering bone his face erupted with blood.

Albert charged forward drawing a knife and pistol he dodged some of Asriel's swipes and knifed him a few times. Albert laughed "Look at you now boy. A creature broken and used by the dark prince. I bet he is laughing at you right now. It's going to be a shame for our Lord to lose his pet dog." Albert continued his assault, Asriel began dodging each of his knife attacks. Asriel then grabbed his knife wielding hand, Albert tried to raise his auto pistol he tried to fire but Asriel grabbed his other arm. He squeezed his wrist wielding the auto pistol his bones popping and shattering. Albert screamed.

Asriel laughed he could see when he spoke horror filled his eyes "She is laughing at you right now. Your obsession, your excess is shallow turning to one such as he to gain your wish." Asriel crushed his other arm bearing the knife. Asriel then grabbed his head and twisted snapping his neck.

Larry had his gun raised then lowered it Agoston glowered at him "What are you doing shoot!" Larry shook his head "This is where we die." He gave a small laugh and dropped his gun. Asriel walked forward "You know when you punched me that one time on Athor after we helped you?" Asriel speared his talons into Larry's cheek, Asriel could see he was trying hard not to scream.

Asriel furrowed his brows "Why don't you scream?" Asriel shook his head "Boring." Asriel gently grabbed Larry's head and and bought his talons across his face cutting through his gas mask. A shower of blood spilled from his face and he collapsed to the ground. Asriel looked to Agoston he stepped back and fell on his bottom "This was a joke... Asriel how about we forget this happened?" Asriel slowly walked towards him "You burnt the masters history, you burnt our lord words there is no forgiveness. No mercy." Agoston shook his head and laughed "He may like you the most but do you think there will be no consequences for killing me?" Asriel looked Agoston and gave a gentle smile "Then we will accept whatever punishment our lord has in store for me."
Agoston shouted "You are mad! He will torment you! Cast you aside!" Asriel frowned "You speak too much." Asriel reached forward Agoston grabbed his arm it sizzled Agoston's hands were glowing with purple fire. Asriel shook his head and edged his hand closer to his face he could feel Agoston trying to hold him back to no avail Asriel strength as he is now far surpasses that of a normal human. Asriel dug his talons into his lips and tore.
Agoston let go of his arm in an instant he was mewling on the floor. Asriel threw the piece of meat to the side. He watched Agoston look up to him, Asriel then drove his talons into his throat he gurgled. Asriel left his talons within his throat until his life bled away.
Asriel looked to Amethyst in the corner he walked over "You betrayed me also." Amethyst was on her knees she shook her head tears in her eyes "No, I wanted to help you he lied to me." Asriel hissed "You trusted him." Amethyst shouted "I trusted him to fix you! Our lord I can't believe he allowed you to remain like this!" Asriel snarled "Watch what you say!" Amethyst bit her lip "The young man I met that day can't be dead. He was so curious about everything around him. Yet I look at him now I see him being twisted by a creature of the warp." Asriel narrowed his eyes the distortion in his voice growing "He said you accepted it! You accepted the dark prince so why? Why do you want it removed? Why do you want to separate us?" Amethyst shook her head "I accepted but when I did I learned what I truly wanted. Sh- he said all forms of excess is okay.. the dinner it was nice but after it....." Amethyst gripped her head and shouted "I realised my obsession! What I truly want! I realised I want you back.

I want master back. I want things back to how they were before. Instead of shutting myself away I committed myself to actually doing something to get there." Asriel growled under his breath "So you haven't accepted what master wanted for you. After everything he went through to get you there. Now you betrayed u-me in the process."
Amethyst looked directly into Asriel's eyes, even when overtaken Asriel could see the resolve in her eyes "Is that you or the neverborn speaking? Agoston was right about one thing if you kill us there will be repercussions. Asriel would understand that." Asriel knelt and leaned towards her and bought his talon to her neck Amethyst had tears in her eyes she said "Albert was partly right. He is laughing at all of us right now." Asriel gently drew his talon across her neck. Blood pouring from the wound.

He watched Amethyst collapse to the ground tears still in her eyes. Asriel looked at all the dead bodies around him then to his wounds the pain came surging back he collapsed.
Adelram sat in his chamber messing with the small purple orb. Jedrick and Isira were also present, the small purple orb evaporated again Adelram cursed. Jedrick spoke "What are you doing?" Adelram sighed "Trying to condense warp energy into a portable form." Isira stepped forward "Anyway my lord we are docking at the station." Adelram nodded "I am surprised we got past the blockade so easily. It seems like the imperials are preparing for something."

Jedrick laughed "Or perhaps the captain is just too good for the imperial navy." Adelram leaned back in his seat he then looked to his desk. When Isira was about to speak vapour left her mouth she looked at Adelram he was unmoving yet a small amount of rime was beginning to line the desk. Jedrick looked at his hand a small amount of frost coating his armour Jedrick said flatly "What are you angry about?"

Adelram in silence pressed the button on his desk the doors slid open. A young man came walking in holding four heads. His robes were covered in blood. A book was slinged over his shoulder via a chain. He looked down.

Adelram rose from his table in silence and walked over to him "Asriel." Asriel looked up "I-" Adelram lifted him with one hand and shoved him to the wall, Asriel dropped the heads "Explain." The rime melted away and a strange heat filled the room. Adelram repeated "Explain." Asriel's lips quivered and closed his eyes "I lost control. I killed them." Sparks flashed in the room "After all the work with Amethyst!? Agoston was valuable! All the secrets I poured into him wasted!" Asriel moved to speak "My lord I am sor-" Adelram interjected his voice firm "Silence! Don't speak. You shall no longer speak in my presence." Adelram looked down at the heads then to Jedrick "One of yours I think." Jedrick looked down "Indeed so. He was second to Charlie I quite liked him."
Adelram took a breath "What should I do to punish you?" Isira stepped forward "Put him in a cage my lord." Adelram looked to Isira "What?" Isira nodded "If he wants to act like an animal put him in a cage or a special cage for one such as him." Adelram looked to Asriel and nodded "That shall be done."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/14 17:14:48


Post by: shinros


Yeah a lot of dead people this chapter. I had fun writing it.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/14 22:21:35


Post by: lliu


Yes indeed you did. Plot twist Adelram is not as favourable to asriel as he believed lol.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/15 03:26:56


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Yes indeed you did. Plot twist Adelram is not as favourable to asriel as he believed lol.


Indeed, he is still a chaos space marine at the end of the day and being taught by Fabius as well has coloured his outlook. Wasting his time or causing waste drives him nuts. Still perhaps we might see how far Asriel's loyalty goes?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/15 09:53:27


Post by: shinros


Chapter 30

Isira walked the hallways of the ship heading to the docking bay area she had her "help" following her. It took some time to break him down after Cortva but now he was an obedient bodyguard. Of course she required no protection it was the fact having him around reminds her more of the joy she had in removing his faith. His sense of commitment to the imperium. Isira looked behind her slightly Belov was following her in silence various scars that she inflicted upon him lined his face and hands.

She continued walking in silence and as she reached the docking bay she saw Adelram in discussion with Jedrick, Marthas, Sebastian and Silas. She turned her head towards the wall and looked at a rather small cage and smiled. She turned to Belov "You may leave." Belov gave a silent nod and walked back into the hall.

Isira approached Adelram and gave a bow "You are leaving now my lord?" Adelram nodded "Indeed we are. We are docked at the station and now perhaps we will see what the warmaster wants with us." Isira gave another bow "please be safe on your trip." Adelram nodded and turned to Marthas, Jedrick, Sebastian and Silas "The airlock has connected it's time to leave." Isira watched her lord leaving she could not help but feel slightly worried yet in the end she is all he has left now. She smiled, Isira looked to the cage many of the dock bay workers paid him no mind. Most likely thinking he could steal their souls or give them bad luck. Or perhaps drawing the ire of Adelram.

Adelram placed the cage here so people can see what may happen to those who displease him. Showing that even his "most" favoured cannot escape punishment of displeasing him yet one thing confounded Isira she approached the cage hoping for an answer.
Isira walked over to the small cage she knelt down, the cage looked cramped for the occupant but that was intended in it's design. The young man looked at her in silence, Isira could not help but smile. Isira licked her lips "It's only just me now. Thank you for removing all the distractions to our lord." She waited for a response yet nothing, Asriel did not utter a word.

Isira gave a slight pout "He is gone you know, you can speak I won't tell him." Asriel shook his head and smiled weakly. Isira guessed the cage was draining away his energy so he could not summon the strength of Meliva. Also if he touched the bars for a period of time the runes would sear him due to his nature.

Isira sighed "You think he will forgive you? Is that why you are smiling still?" Isira watched Asriel shake his head his head in what Isira could see to be disagreement. Isira narrowed her eyes "So why did you not tell him the whole tale?" Isira could see Asriel was thinking. Using his fingers he spelled out words in the air slowly. Isira almost laughed when he was done "So, in your eyes you did lose control? You failed him? Yet that failure may help him in the future?" Asriel nodded. Isira lightly tapped her two fingers on her forehead in irritation "They looked to kill you or weaken you in Amethyst case. How will this blunder of yours help him?" Asriel was silent, Isira could see he was thinking.

Isira smirked "Yet even so you would not be alive if you did not kill them." Isira strangely could not read Asriel's expression he then smiled he gave that same innocent smile he always gave people. He spelled out more words with his finger what he said almost angered her "You think it does not matter what their intentions were? In your mind your sin was more grievous? It was his right to punish you?" Asriel nodded again.

Isira grabbed the bars of the cage she was now on her knees "Who do you think you are? You are not special. You have not given what I have to be with him. He has done so little for you. Yet you are so loyal." Asriel almost gave a shrug in the cramped cage. As Isira held the cage she felt a surge in her head images. The ship being fired upon and then consumed in the tide of the warp. She saw herself standing with Adelram and other Astartes of his warband before a Daemon prince. Then she saw Asriel in the cage being consumed by the warp the fires of the ship burning around him.

A tear rolled down her cheek, Isira chuckled "Finally." Isira looked at Asriel "Finally your death. The dark prince will give me your death. He gave me a vision of your death" Isira looked at Asriel yet there was no fear there or concern. It annoyed her "Aren't you scared? You are going to to die. We won't even get to avenge your mother." Isira gave a wry grin Asriel shaked his head, he moved his fingers again.

Isira almost rattled the cage with what he said "You are not going to die? You no longer care about her? What? You are not even favoured! You are merely a means to an end nothing more to bring our lord to slaanesh’s arms. You are lord Adelram's pet his dog." Isira then smiled yet that vanished with what Asriel did next slowly with his finger he made an A, then an N and finally D. With a question mark. Isira was stunned Asriel kept moving his finger telling her that he no longer cares if he views him as a pet or not.
Asriel continued moving his finger he told her that he fell into despair when he awoke after his wounds healed. Perhaps it was the despair or madness that caused the voice yet he heard a laughter in the distance in that moment. He spoke to him. He told him what he must do, there will be a time coming soon that he will need to save his family including her. He will have to make himself valuable during that time. This cage is nothing, he will bare his lord hating him for now or perhaps even forever. Even barring the fact he no longer wished for him to speak if he can aid or save him in the future that is all that matters.

Isira gave a small laugh "So this is what he meant by innocence twisted. Saving me as well? Don't make me laugh I do not sense the dark prince's favour on you anymore. The neverborn within you is silent also." Asriel then began shifting removing his robe and turned his back showing her the large mark of slaanesh still on his back. Yet next to the brand on the right and left of it a small wing like pattern was appearing on both ends. It looked faded but she knew it was not placed there by mortal hands. Perhaps it was Meliva's doing? Yet she did not sense her touch there.

Asriel placed his robe back on and turned to face her again. Isira tutted "Is that what you are telling yourself? It's nonsense. Nothing but nonsense." Isira stared at Asriel she then closed her eyes trying to reach into Asriel's mind she was now in darkness. She could not read or gleam anything. Asriel was not fully awakened yet and needed Meliva's help to cast sorcery the problem was he could not sense Meliva or she is hiding well.

Isira wanted to find the truth of the matter of what Asriel was thinking, she saw a pink glow and she approached a black like wisp constricted her neck choking her. She could not breathe her power all that she was. Everything was being drained away. Suddenly she felt something or someone shoving her.

She was staring at Asriel his face neutral, she was still holding the bars of the cage. Isira rose in silence and turned away "You are delusional there is no way what you said is true. He is mine now." She walked away as she approached the hallway she held a few strands of her hair it was grey and slowly it turned back to blonde. She curled her lips into disgust, he knows nothing. Just a delusional young man.

As Adelram stepped into the station he was greeted by a group of Black Legion terminators. Their helmets bearing tusks and parts of their armour were pink. Adelram sighed he wondered of all the Black Legion warbands he had to meet them it had to be them. Adelram watched a terminator step forward he was larger than the rest he had a white fur pelt wrapped around his armour and it was adorned with Jewellery at various sections.
Adelram assumed that he is one of the chaos lords within the children of torment. Yet when he spoke it ruined his mood further. The chaos lord said "It's been a long time. Hasn't it Adelram?" Adelram tried to keep his distaste from his voice "Sergeant Damian it has indeed been a long time." Adelram heard Damian grunt "I am not a Sergeant and you still fixate on dead titles. I am a lord now leading my own warband under the warmaster."
Adelram shrugged "How is that turning out for you?" Adelram could tell he was smiling for some reason under his helmet "Well Adelram unlike you I lead a contingent. I have multiple ships and a company worth of Astartes. Unlike you I ravage worlds to feed on it's delights instead of cutting tail and running before a proper enemy presents itself." Adelram watched the Black Legion terminators chuckling as he said it. Adelram could see Jedrick was about to step forward.

Adelram frowned under his helmet "Yet for some reason the warmaster requested my presence. I wonder has that happened to you? If I recall correctly you were you recruited by Devram Korda? I do remember he fed you many promises." Adelram watched Damian fall silent and turned away "I will guide you to him." Adelram turned his head slightly to Marthas, Jedrick, Sebastian and Silas "Shall we follow?" They all nodded in silence.
As they walked through the station he could see all the human slaves and Astartes were preparing for conflict. Adelram also saw members of other legions doing business or trading slaves. As they passed by some stopped to look. Adelram was still thinking why it had to be the children of torment? He would of preferred the Warhounds to be their escorts. Even if the followers of Khorne have distaste for the followers of slaanesh being with them would be much more preferable.

They stopped at two large double doors, Damian turned to him "Only you will enter, the rest wait outside." Adelram could see Jedrick was about to step forward again he raised his hand slightly "Enough brother." Jedrick grunted and stepped back again he could see Damian shaking his head "You consider him a brother? Shocking considering he is of Russ's stock and I also see a black templar he is not wearing third colours yet I never knew you had interest in fanatics and those who are quite.. dour in disposition. Quite interesting." Adelram shrugged "They are more brothers to me than you are Damian." Damian laughed as he spoke there was a tinge of disgust "Brotherhood is dead within the third. Our legion is dead. Our gene-sire saw to that." Adelram flared up slightly when he said that he calmed himself don't make a scene here not now.

Adelram nodded "So may I enter now?" Damian turned to the doors they slowly opened "Come, "Lord of sin". " Adelram followed.

Adelram stepped into a large throne room he looked up the small steps and saw Abbadon the warmaster sitting on a throne. His sword Drach'nyen resting across his lap and the Talon of Horus rested on the right of the throne. Adelram could see around the throne room there were Children of Torment sorcerer's he could sense they were far more powerful than he was. Standing next to Abbadon he saw Devram Korda.

Adelram stood in the middle of the room with Damian he gave a slight bow and announced him "Lord Abbadon, warmaster I have bought the lord of sin." Abbadon gestured with the talon of Horus "You may leave." Damian gave a nod and left the throne room.
Adelram felt Abbadon's gaze it was like he was peeling him away inch by inch. There was silence for about a minute. Abbadon spoke his voice held power within it Adelram could tell that much "You are wondering why I called you here?" Adelram nodded "Indeed I am warmaster." Abbadon smirked "Yet you haven't kneeled or bowed." Adelram shook his head "There is only one person I kneel or bow to.
"
Abbadon frowned "This is why the imperium has not been crushed yet. Astartes of the many legions kneel to figures that have broken them. Made them crude, inefficient." As Abbadon spoke Adelram still got the feeling he was still peeling him away. Adelram gave a slight cough "Perhaps, ye-" Abbadon cut him off "Yet they still follow blindly. It is the black legion that leads. It is my brothers that bring the victories that bought the imperium to shudder in fear of us."

Adelram stood in silence, Abbadon continued "The best example of this is the third the most broken next to the twelfth. Still at least the primarch of the twelfth still moves but the third? Broken. Degenerates. Mocked and hated. A primarch that has no interest in ruling his legion." Adelram grit his teeth "Yes we have fallen to that state our primarch will return Warmaster." Abbadon chuckled "To grind your legion into the dust until nothing is left." Abbadon placed the tip of his sword on the ground. The ground scorched with it's touch, Abbadon leaned back "Now why I brought you here. I wish you to join the Black Legion."

Adelram was stunned but he should of guessed that would be the reason why he would call him here yet the answer was obvious to him it was. Abbadon kept up his pitch "Out of the many warband leaders in the third. You are being wasted, take the black. Burn away following a primarch who lead your legion to ruin." Adelram took a breath he said "I thank you for the offer but I cannot." Adelram watched Abbadon frown just for a second he felt his twin hearts skipping a beat. Just for a moment that odd alien sensation crept into his hearts it vanished after a second.

Adelram watched Abbadon flex the claws of the Talon of Horus slightly "Disappointing." Said Abbadon. Abbadon turned his head slightly to Devarm "All this time of hearing how surprised you were to find a member of the third who seemed "reasonable." He is not acting reasonable right now Devarm." Devarm gave a slight bow "Apologies, as always the third can surprise you." Abbadon sighed "Indeed they can."

Adelram felt a tinge of annoyance with how they are speaking. How they were referring to him and his primarch. He watched Devarm step forward he spread his arms wide "Now, Lord of sin reconsider Abbadon's offer. The children of torment can use one such as you. Your wish can still be for filled even with us." Adelram stepped forward his annoyance spilling out "What do you know of my wish!?" Devarm chuckled "Considering how much favour I have, the neverborn whisper things Adelram. Things that you don't hear. Along with that you can have any delight you wish. Your warband will expand and you will ravage worlds. Fight the true enemy. Your primarch will look at you and weep for not paying attention to such a star."

Adelram glowered at Devarm "Yet it will be in the name of Abaddon! In the name of the Black Legion!" Devarm shrugged "And? You see that many members of the third have joined us. Why? They were tired. Tired of being small, tired of being broken and tired of having no brotherhood due to an absent Primarch. We can offer you so much. We gave so much to Damian look at him now compared to you." For a moment Adelram thought about it considered his offer then dismissed it in a fraction of a second. Adelram spoke his voice flat "I have no regrets. None I don't regret a single choice while walking on this path I am now on. I am not like the rest of the members of the third who joined you. They are turn coats, cowards and traitors who flocked to the children of torment since they cannot handle what our primarch wants for us. I believe the Phoenician put us on a path. A path some could not handle. Even if he does not notice me I will walk it all the same I will get what I want on my own terms not yours.."

Devarm sighed and turned to Abbadon and bowed "Apologies Warmaster, he is not reasonable after all." Abbadon smiled "No matter. He will aid us in the 13th black crusade we are going to attack Cadia soon." Adelram blinked "What?" Abbadon drew his blade slightly across the ground in Adelram's mind the sound was like the wailing of a neverborn "As I said you will aid us in attacking Cadia."

Adelram cursed under his breath.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/15 09:59:07


Post by: shinros


Que Adelram most likely internally screaming right now.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/15 12:45:35


Post by: lliu


Yes yes indeed he is screaming right now.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/15 12:45:54


Post by: lliu


I thought for sure he was gonna get killed by Abaddon.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/15 13:17:26


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
I thought for sure he was gonna get killed by Abaddon.


Abbadon is a busy dude that was like his 1pm appointment that's how small time this event is to him while this might be a big deal to Adelram. Adelram's warband is weak and pretty low on the power scale a common trend in newer 40k stories dealing with the emperor's children like the Fabius and Lucius novels deals with the fact that the third are pretty broken right now. Still for Abbadon his warband would make great f- I mean allies for the crusade.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/16 23:18:03


Post by: shinros


Chapter 31
Adelram left the throne room, Marthas, Sebastian, Jedrick and Silas were waiting. Jedrick was clearly on edge. Adelram could tell he wants to kill the terminators or even Damian. Adelram then placed his gaze on Marthas who seemed calm or at ease he was curious with that he was thinking. His old Marshal was killed by the black legion yet he felt no killing intent about him. Save his hand was resting on the pommel of his blade.

Adelram could see Silas was yawning already growing bored and Sebastian still had that mocking grin his face shaped by the dark prince. Adelram walked towards them, Jedrick hurried forward "Well what did he say?" Adelram folded his arms "He wanted us to join the Black legion." Adelram could see Marthas gripping his pommel more tightly his voice bore almost no emotion yet there was a slight edge "You said no correct?"

Adelram nodded "I did." As Adelram said this he heard Damian scoffing he stepped towards him his feet thudding Adelram could tell he was upset "You are foolish Adelram. Always have been. You always assumed you knew best. You had one in a lifetime opportunity. Now you thrown it away."

Adelram listened to Damian's complaint he turned to him "I had enough of your prattling Damian." Adelram stepped close to him he looked right into the eye lenses of his helm "I know you. I know soon as our primarch returns you will slink back into his arms begging to join him. I know many of the third who have joined Abbadon will do the same." Damian raised his power claw he said "You know nothing. Fulgrim broke us. He broke our legion. Fulgrim is nothing." Adelram chuckled and nodded slightly "I wonder if you would tell him that to his face." Damian leaned in closer to Adelram "I would. Since I am not a coward and he is not my leader or my father no longer. I follow the warmaster." Adelram sighed "I see."
Adelram turned to Jedrick "There is something the warmaster asked of us. He "requested" that we join him on the 13th black crusade." Damian laughed "I see.. my task here is done." Damian kept laughing as he walked away his terminators followed him.
Marthas looked to Adelram "Why is he laughing?" Silas answered the question Marthas looked to him Silas then shrugged "Abbadon is most likely going to use us as fodder." Marthas puzzled looked to Adelram "Why did you not refuse him?" Adelram shook his head "I just refused joining him. Refusing him again is a risk I could not take especially dealing with a black crusade." Adelram eyed Marthas "My concern is that are you ready to kill imperials so soon Marthas?" Marthas drew his blade and made a few swift slashes in the air and sheathed his blade "Do not worry. I will kill them without hesitation." Sebastian finally spoke he laughed "I will believe it when I see it. It has not been long since you joined us."
Marthas stepped close to Sebastian "Do you think I will falter?" Sebastian permanent grin clearly displayed the tone of his response "I do and when that happens I will kill you." Jedrick scowled "Sebastian enough." Sebastian looked to Jedrick "Oh? You trust him? He is a fanatic perhaps he is looking to make himself a martyr and kill us when we least expect it?" Marthas was silent he turned away "I am going back to the ship."

Adelram watched him walk away, Sebastian looked to Adelram "You agree don't you? How sure are you that Asriel corrupted him? I mean you did stick him in that cramped cage after all." Adelram walked down the hall he turned is head slightly to Jedrick, Sebastian and Silas "We are heading back to the ship. We might be leaving any time." Sebastian tutted ending his complaint. All three Astartes followed Adelram back to the ship.

Adelram stepped back onto the ship as he did so he called Jedrick over to him "Jedrick?" Jedrick walked forward they began walking together to the middle of the docking bay area "What is it?" Said Jedrick. Adelram turned his head to Jedrick "I want everyone ready and on stand by for war." Jedrick nodded "Aye it will be done." Adelram stopped walking, Jedrick continued just as he was about to enter the hallway he said "I will make sure everyone is ready." Sebastian walked past scowling and followed Jedrick into the hall.
Silas stopped next to Adelram "Are you sure about this?" Adelram sighed "I am not. Might as well enjoy the ride until our deaths." Silas laughed "Indeed! I will get my raptors ready." Adelram watched Silas enter the halls of the ship afterwards. Adelram looked to the cage at the wall, whenever he looks at the cage his anger and disappointment comes flooding back. Another piece of waste Adelram thought to himself.

Adelram walked into the halls of the ship leaving the docking bay area. He wanted to return to his chambers perhaps finishing his experiment before they attack Cadia. He would also have to let the captain know to be ready.

As he was walking to his chambers he saw Isira waiting in the hallway he knew if she was waiting for him she wants something. She bowed and began walking behind him Adelram moved directly to why she was there "What do you want Isira?" Her voice came from behind him he could tell she was trying to speak as gently as possible "You know me too well. When we go to cadia I wish to come with you." Adelram squinted his eyes under his helmet "Why do you wish to come?" Adelram heard her pout as she said "Why do I need a reason to help you? I can handle myself quite well."

Adelram reached his chambers he turned to her "Very well. You will most likely die with the rest of us." Adelram watched as a coy smile lined her features "We won't die. My lord we will live." Adelram opened the doors of his chambers "Well I am not confident. Very well then I expect you to be ready we could be leaving at any moment."
Isira bowed and walked away. Adelram entered his chambers and sat down at his desk he removed his helmet and pulled out another small purple orb from the desk drawer. He looked at it wondering what he could do. Isira said they won't die but he knows better than to trust her. What is she plotting?

Adelram sighed and placed the orb on the desk. All he could do was prepare and hope for the best.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/16 23:39:32


Post by: shinros


Chapter 32

Adelram was called to the bridge, they have been hailed it has been a week since they have been docked at the station. The captain sent him a vox message that a Chaos lord wanted to see him. Adelram reached the bridge as he walked to the throne everyone looked to their stations. Adelram found whenever he was on the bridge no one wanted to make eye contact.
He looked to Captain sitting on the throne his cane helping him sit upright and the purple jacket was worn on his shoulders. Lily was standing to his left. He looked up "Lord Adelram, a chaos lord named Damian wished to contact you directly." Adelram looked to the main screen at the throne "Open the channel captain." Captain pressed a few buttons Damian appeared on the screen.

Adelram sighed he could see Damian was not wearing his helmet. His skin was pale and lined with snake like tattoos, Adelram said "What is it Damian?" Damian smirked "We are leaving in a few hours the whole fleet. Abbadon has boarded the planet killer his black stone fortress has battered the void defences of cadia." Adelram nodded "What of us then?" Adelram watched Damian lean back into his throne "You will be with us. Be glad we did not send you in the first or second wave. The fleets have washed over the cadian gate giving us an opening. We are taking it. Cadia will fall. Do you see now Adelram? What a legion united in purpose and action can do?"

Adelram was shocked surprised even that this was happening the possibility of attacking Cadia for centuries people tried and failed. Yet now? Now it's happening. Adelram could see Damian was smiling "The warmaster has told me you can reconsider the offer any time." Adelram spoke his voice flat "So we are joining your fleet for this?" He watched Damian frown "Yes get ready to move now. I will send you mission parameters when we are close to cadia" Damian vanished from the screen.

Adelram turned to Captain "Captain open the ship's vox to all channels." Captain nodded and pressed a button on his console. Adelram breathed out and spoke into the vox link "I want all forces ready for war. Everyone to battle stations we are entering the 13th black crusade. We are going to attack Cadia."

Captain looked up to Adelram "It would of been nice if the teleportarium on the ship was working..." Adelram sighed "Indeed. Since the captain left us our warpsmith died soon after that." The captain rose from his chair, Lily was concerned but the captain waved her back he tapped his cane down several times "Now let's get going! We will show those imperials what it means to face us." Adelram watched everyone turn from their stations and gave the captain a nod.

Adelram turned away and left the throne he stopped "I am going to prepare the docking bay area. I assume you will get us close to the planet?" The captain laughed "My lord do you doubt me?" Adelram chuckled and walked away.

The dominion of the phoenix moved with the black legion fleet into the sea of souls. The journey was quick and without trouble and when they spilled out. Ships were shot with lances. Fanatics of chaos charged their ships into the imperials causing several ships to explode at once. Any ship that got close to the black stone fortress was destroyed by it's gun batteries. Captain watched this happen he barked "Stick close to the black legion fleet use the chaff to shield us from fire!" Everyone the bridge nodded in acknowledgement.
Captain smiled "It's been too long since we have been in a large scale void battle." He looked up to Lily "Pay attention now you may have to do this." Lily nodded "Yes Grandfather." Captain looked to his console "Lord Adelram ordered us to get him to the planet and that's what we will do."

Adelram had everyone gathered in the docking bay area he looked at Isira her hair tied in a ponytail and wearing carapace armour. He still wondered what she was playing at even so when they hit the planet she might be useful. He could see Marthas in the corner waiting he still has not repainted his armour. Adelram thought of Sebastian's words for a moment he then looked at the cage.

The ship shook due to void fire, Captain said he would get them to the planet he has not let him down yet. As he was thinking there was a beep on the feed of his helmet. He blinked several times. Captain has sent him the mission parameters Damian most likely sent it to the bridge. The information scrolled down the screen within his helmet. They were attacking a fortress with the black legion. The fortress on the plains of cadia it is protecting a cadian pylon. The fortress was built around it. The objective was to destroy it there were coordinates listed in the information.

Adelram wondered what purpose the Cadian pylon served. Even so that's their objective. The captain then sent him another message that they were closing on the planet. Adelram announced "We are heading to cadia. We will be attacking a fortress we need to get over the walls and destroy a pylon." Marthas stepped forward "This is going to be bloody you are aware of that? A siege is dirty work." Adelram nodded "I know. Still the hard part is getting to the world. Their void batteries can shoot us out of the sky. I suspect the black legion have a host of teleportariums and sorcerers that can take them to the world.

Jedrick came forward resting his axe on his shoulder "You have a plan for that correct?" Adelram nodded again "I do. Now everyone to the thunderhawks! We are going all at once!"
As he said this Adelram heard a dirge of noise coming out of the hallway. It was Marius he wondered what parts of the ship does he stay in? He always comes just as they are about to set off. Marius and his squad stopped in front of Adelram and bowed. A screech then came from Marius's speaker. Adelram folded his arms "Yes this is indeed it. The day cadia might be broken." Marius screeched again. Adelram then placed his hands around his back "Yes many will die screaming. Be sure to shepard as many as you can to the dark prince Marius." Marius nodded and walked to the thunderhawk.

Adelram looked to the thunderhawks and walked forward. Adelram stepped on the Thunderhawk. Marthas was also on the same thunderhawk. Adelram could see his black templar insignia was slashed and defaced. Marthas looked at him his voice was flat as he spoke "So how are you going to keep us from being blasted to bits?" Adelram took out a small purple orb from his pouch and held it up to Marthas "With this." Marthas looked at the small object "Right. Witchcraft. We are going to die."

Adelram frowned under his helmet when he said that "Marths have a little faith in me." Marthas turned away "I don't have any faith in sorcery." Adelram soon smiled under his helmet "Soon you will brother." As he mentioned the word brother he watched Marthas shift slightly clearly uncomfortable.

The thunderhawks lifted off the flight was rocky. The thunderhawk shook as it took stray blasts from ships. Adelram held the small purple orb he concentrated he opened his mind and focused. The small purple orb charged with energy. Purple lightning rippled over his armour Astartes and humans on the thunderhawk stepped back. Marthas stood in place he did not move from his spot.

Adelram released the energy a purple like wall was expanding out of him. It felt like his mind was going to explode blood was running down his nose and eyes. He had to hold to push the wall out further. Astartes and the cultists moved to the walls of the ship hoping to avoid the wall but it phased right through them. The wall then move through the walls of the ship.
The pilot of the thunderhawk called out "A bubble is forming around our thunderhawks!" Marthas called out "Move quickly! We don't know how long it will hold!" Adelram felt the thunderhawk increasing in speed but it just increased the strain placed on his mind. He also felt the ships firing on the shield. He coughed blood within his helmet.

Adelram wondered how long he could keep going. It was like an age gritting his teeth he called out "Are we within the atmosphere of the planet yet?" Marthas shook his head "Almost. " Adelram gasped his twin hearts began to feel like it was being filled with fire. He dropped to his knees.

The pilot shouted "We made it!" Adelram released the psychic power he gasped again he was about to collapse until someone held him it was Marthas. He helped him to his feet, Adelram took deep breaths. He smiled "Why thank you Marthas." Marthas was silent. The thunderhawk rattled most likely small arms fire.

Adelram's body ached "Marthas I am alright now." Marthas stepped away, Adelram removed his helmet and clipped it to his belt. He wiped away the blood covering his mouth, nose and eyes. Some of his acolytes were on the ship they moved forward concern within their eyes. Adelram ignored them he had to now focus on the war.
The thunderhawks finally landed and the bay doors opened. Adelram stepped out with Marthas. There were sounds of gunfire and the sounds of people dying. Adelram looked up the skies were in upheaval due to the void battle above.

Adelram could see the black legion have set up a makeshift camp. Their banners swaying in the wind. Slaves were prodded to the front lines to charge the fort in the distance while cultists edged forward with trenches.

More of his warband thunderhawks landed. Jedrick stepped out with Sebastian and Silas. He also saw Isira walking out of the thunderhawk towards him as well. Jedrick approached him surprise lining his voice "How did you do that?" Adelram grabbed another small purple orb from his pouch and showed Jedrick "You remember this don't you?" Jedrick nodded "I do." Adelram smiled "Condensed warp energy. I have been practising with my psychic powers for a year this orb is just something to help close the gap against someone more powerful. Yet it's dangerous to use." Marthas moved forward and interjected "To me it looked like you were dying." Soon as he said that Isira who was silent was shocked.

Adelram blinked "Well... I was." Jedrick raised his axe to him to the surprise of everyone "Don't use it again." Adelram surprised said "What's the matter Jedrick?" Sebastian stepped next to Jedrick "What is matter Jedrick? If our lord wishes to potentially kill himself that's his prerogative." Jedrick turned to Sebastian his voice on edge "Shut up Sebastian before I kill you." Sebastian scowled and moved back. Jedrick turned back to Adelram "As I said don't use it again." Adelram chuckled "I won't. Don't worry." Jedrick sheathed his axe "Good."
Adelram turned to one of his acolytes "Have everyone begin unloading the gear from the thunderhawks." The acolyte bowed and turned to the various cultists barking orders.
Adelram turned back to Jedrick and folded his arms "Now how about we go to the black legion camp and get this war underway?" They all nodded.

As they entered the camp, Adelram could see humans chained to poles crying. Actually they had a great number of human slaves in the camp. Adelram approached one the black legion Astartes "Could you point us to Damian's tent?" The black legionnaire scoffed "It's Lord Damian." Adelram shrugged "To me he is a Sergeant." The black legion Astartes growled under his helmet in annoyance he then pointed to a large tent "It's there. Make sure you show respect." Jedrick slowly began drawing his axe, Adelram held his hand up to stop him "Remember we are "allies" right now Jedrick." Jedrick grunted and let go of his axe.
They walked to the tent that was pointed out to them. The entrance was guarded by two terminators. They both stared at Adelram the terminator on the right spoke his voice was like a rumble through the vox of his helmet "Only He will enter." He pointed at Adelram with a claw.

Adelram nodded "I see." he turned to everyone "I will be just a moment." Adelram stepped into the tent. Damian was sitting on a throne. He was in discussion with several Children of torment sorcerers. Adelram walked forward and they ceased their discussion.

Damian smiled "Nice trick you pulled there, of course our sorcerers just easily made a portal to the surface." Adelram tried to smile he still felt the effects from using the purple orb "Thank you I practised." One the children of torment sorcerer's interjected "His "spell" did ravage his body somewhat. He most likely used power that his body could not handle. He is rather... weak after all compared to us." Damian shook his head in disapproval whether it was genuine Adelram could not tell Damian said "Azothos, my head sorcerer try to be a little more courteous to our "ally" he did much to get here." Azothos gave a small bow "Apologies my lord."

Adelram tried to recall the name of the sorcerer he was sure it was another member of the third but he was not sure which company he was a part of. Adelram then shrugged "I am not offended. Now I wonder how you are going to get into the fort." Damian leaned back in the throne "We are in the middle of discussing that. If we do this the old fashioned way we will bleed our forces and won't have enough men to complete the objective." Adelram nodded "I guessed that much so what are you planning to do?"

Damian then nodded forward, Azothos walked forward to speak "We are going to bring neverborn forth." Adelram chuckled "I guessed that much considering how many slaves you have in the camp. Still we can't call lesser ones they are not enough. Also a greater one is too much trouble." Azothos scoffed "You may not be able to bind a greater on-" Damian interjected "Enough prattling keep on topic." Azothos nodded "We are going to summon a daemon prince to bring his Cohort."

Adelram folded his arms "So I wonder why haven't you started the ritual yet." Azothos looked to Damian and he sighed. Damian moved to speak "You are necessary." Adelram raised his eyebrow under his helmet "Why might I ask? If you thi-" Damian held up a clawed hand "You are not going to be part of the sacrifice. You are not even going to be a part of the summoning. Daemon princes are difficult to bind yet if it was you convincing him to help us. He might just aid us with his whole cohort."

Adelram laughed "You don't convince neverborn. They simply move to use us in their games!" Adelram began thinking and something dawned upon him "Now I see why you placed me with your fleet." Damian nodded "Yes, the daemon prince we are attempting to summon. For some reason he was... close to you. Even during the time when you refused to accept chaos."

When Damian said that Adelram realised which daemon prince they are going to summon "Why him?" Azothos spoke "He is high in the eyes of the dark prince. He controls a vast cohort that can surely help us siege the fortress with minimal losses." Adelram shook his head "You think I can convince the captain to help us?" Damian smirked "The starlight king you mean." Adelram scowled "His title is rubbish." Damian laughed "You would tell him that to his face "Lord of sin?"" Adelram nodded "I would. I told him his title was terrible even when he was Mortal. Even when he ascended but you left before that."

Adelram shrugged "You seem committed to this plan so I will go along with it. It's my warband's only shot for survival anyway." Damian flexed his claws "Now that is out of the way you may leave."

Adelram turned to leave as he exited tent. They were all waiting for him Jedrick walked towards him "So what's the plan?" Adelram chuckled "We are going to see captain again." As Adelram said this there was a collective sigh from Sebastian, Silas and Jedrick. Adelram could even see Isira frowned at the news. Jedrick rubbed the back of his neck "Why?" Adelram folded his hands around his back "Damian believes his cohort might be enough to aid us in getting into the fortress." Marthas stepped forward "Who is this captain of yours?" Silas sighed again "The starlight king." Marthas in confusion said "What?" Adelram interjected "He glittered when he killed people he would not shut up about it. "

Marthas said "I see." he then fell silent. Jedrick spoke "So when is his summoning happening?" Adelram looked to all the chained slaves in the camp "Almost any moment." Jedrick turned away "Well I am going to the thunderhawk. I don't want to see him." Adelram chuckled "You don't want him to fixate on your fangs do you? He enjoyed admiring them." Jedrick scowled "It's not funny. He held my mouth open for hours." Jedrick turned to Adelram "Don't forget about him admiring your face either. I recall how he looked at you!" Adelram sighed in annoyance "Don't remind me please."

Jedrick threw up his arms "Well, perhaps it's karma since whenever he summoned you. You tried to send me instead and I had to endure it. He eventually figured it out and decided to summon both of us. As I said I am going to the Thunderhawk to sharpen my axe." Jedrick walked away. Sebastian shrugged "My memories of him are not... that fond either." Silas nodded in agreement with Sebastian. Adelram placed his hand on his chin "Oh yes I recall you accidentally killed his favourite slave. You too Silas what did he do to both of you again? I am trying to recall the punishment." Silas moved to shout "Silence! Don't say it!" Sebastian sighed "Why did you have to remind me. Well I am of a mind of Jedrick I will prepare our forces." Sebastian walked away to the thunderhawks, Silas followed him.

It was only Marthas and Isira left, Adelram looked to both of them "So are you going to find an excuse to leave?" Isira shrugged "I go where you go. Seeing him again would not bother me in the slightest." Adelram looked to Marthas he was silent he rested his hand on his sword pommel he said "I am curious what your old captain was like to perplex all of you like that."

Adelram shrugged "Well I also wonder what he will think of you myself." Adelram looked to the fortress slaves and cultists charging forward being shredded by heavy bolter shells and plasma cannons. He thought to himself he agreed with Damian to his annoyance that they will need him to breach a fortress like that.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/17 14:12:44


Post by: shinros


Chapter 33
Adelram watched the black legion Astartes gathering up the chained slaves. They were herded with blades and bolters. Adelram counted about sixty slaves in total was being used for this ritual. There was something strange about what was happening his captain was now one of the neverborn.

He wondered if he would still be the same? Or perhaps he will act differently? When he left he simply told him that he would be in charge. He then vanished into the warp, still even with that the takeover was still bloody.

Adelram turned to Marthas "I am surprised that you are curious enough to want to meet him." Marthas looked up to the sky "Well the black legion are on the first steps on tearing down the edifice. From what I understand to become a daemon. You have to cause untold destruction and atrocity. Yet I sense you have a fondness for your captain oddly enough." Adelram listened to his words thinking he recalled the past even when he was a simple Astartes his captain always watched out for him. No matter how many reports were filed to him, he always sought a way for him to "fit" in.

Even when they joined Horus's rebellion. Lord commander Eidolon sought to have him purged, yet he still gave him an "out". When they became a roving warband after Fulgrim left them no matter how he spoke to him. Even when he disrespected him he simply laughed it off. Marthas levelled his gaze at Adelram he said "So you never really thought about it before?" Adelram nodded "Indeed I haven't. I still wonder why he sought to become a daemon prince. He should of stayed." Marthas gave a slight laugh as he said "So you miss him then? Interesting." Adelram frowned "No. Perhaps if he was still here we would be in a better position."

Isira joined the conversation "We are better my lord." Adelram shook his head "When he was charge members of the third would scramble to join him when we flew through the eye of terror." Adelram chuckled "One thing Damian was right about when we attacked a world we always went all in and ravaged it completely. Now? We leave before any reinforcements come or before the imperials mount a proper offence." Marthas nodded "Well I did hear an imperial guard regiment was on route to Cortva." Adelram sighed "If we stayed until they arrived we would not be able to take them on."

Adelram could see Isira was growing upset for some reason "What is the matter Isira?" Isira looked down slightly "Is that regret I hear my lord?" Adelram turned his head slightly "I don't know to be honest." Adelram sensed someone approaching they were clearly displaying their power. Adelram turned in the direction it was a children of torment sorcerer. It was Azothos he scoffed when he spoke "Lord Damian wishes for you to head to the ritual area." Adelram folded his arms "It seems that you don't exactly like my presence."

Azothos turned away as he said "Indeed I do not. I believe we can easily bind your pathetic captain. Yet our Lord thinks otherwise. You think you are powerful when you are not." Adelram chuckled "You should be careful what you say Azothos my captain might actually be listening in on our conversation." Azothos shrugged and sighed "Let him listen. He will be a tool to achieve something worthy and important."

Azothos walked away. Adelram turned to Isira and Marthas "Shall we go?" Both of them nodded they followed the herded slaves and the black legion Astartes to the ritual area. It was a large space, the slaves were pushed into a group. Six children of torment sorcerer's including Azothos made a circle around them.
Adelram looked to Isira "Stay back he might still be in a sour mood about you." Isira nodded, he could see that she did not seem all too concerned.

Adelram looked to the ritual he could feel that the air was changing. Damian then walked next to him he was smiling "It's been some time since we last saw him haven't we?" Adelram looked to Azothos chanting as he said "It's been longer for you than it has been for me." Damian then sighed, Adelram looked to him in confusion "Why are you sighing?" Damian turned to him "I just thought if the starlight king joined the black legion... We could of used his skills." Adelram shook his head "He would never betray our primarch Damian." Damian scowled "As I said many times Adelram he betrayed us. I wish many in the third would realise that."

As Damian said this the air began to sizzle slightly. Adelram looked to the sorcerers the chanting reaching a crescendo as a purple mist began to fill the air wrapping around them. The mist moved to consume the slaves. Adelram noted their screams were echoing and then underneath that he could hear the sound of someone eating. Then from the mist he heard a roar, soon after that giant wings erupted from the mist spreading outwards. The wings came down blowing the mist away.

Adelram for some reason even when wearing a helmet moved to cover his eyes. Then he heard his voice it was distorted but he recognised it. The voice said "Adelram.. my lieutenant." Adelram looked up he could see the sorcerer's looked drained but in the middle of the circle of sorcerer's stood a large being. His skin was almost like marble but moved like skin. It had a strange sheen, his wings folded in and he wore black and pink armour. His fangs were pristine and he bore two curled black horns.

The daemon prince spoke again "Adelram. My lieutenant please come forward." Adelram looked down yet he found himself walking towards him he looked up and the daemon prince bore an unnatural grin. His black tongue flicked out "That's it. Come closer it's been awhile." Adelram stopped in front of him "Captain."

Adelram watched his captain lean down slightly "Call me by my title." Adelram shook his head "The title is terrible captain." Adelram watched him snicker as he said "Oh? The black legion can respect my title. Why can't you?" Adelram looked away "To me you are my captain nothing else." Adelram watched him give an unnatural chuckle "You always spoke your mind. You haven't changed that much still you rarely talk about your feelings with people." Adelram scowled slightly "My feelings don't matter. Augustus." The daemon prince laughed again "You are that cross with me? You always call me by my discarded name when I prod at a sensitive matter. You accepted the dark prince yet you still have much to learn."

Adelram watched his captain lean back up looking over him "Why don't you introduce me to your new brother?" Adelram turned to Marthas he then walked forward unbowed. Adelram watched his captain stare at Marthas for about a minute he then turned to Adelram and smiled "I like him." Adelram confused asked "Why?" his captain placed a talon to his chin as he said "Well for one he will look after you and keep you from doing anything too reckless. He is almost the opposite of Jedrick." Marthas coughed slightly "I don't know if that's a good thing being compared to him." Adelram then watched Augustus trace a talon down his old black templar insignia "It seems right now there is only three people my lieutenant can be honest with."

Adelram was confused just as he was about to ask from the corner of his eye he saw Azothos walking towards them just as he was about to speak. Adelram somehow smelt brimstone through the filters of his helmet. A giant sword then slammed down in front of Azothos. Adelram watched his captain hiss. His voice now caused strange ripples "Don't interrupt my reunion if you wish me to aid you." Azothos silently turned and walked away.

Adelram looked up to him "Thank you for that. Now captain what do you mean three people I can be honest with?" His captain then licked one of his black talons "Well two are here in the camp. Another on the ship." Adelram scowled "He failed me." Adelram watched his captain chuckle yet the laugh had the underlining of the screams of the sacrificed slaves "I wonder if he did." Adelram walked forward "What do you mean?"

his captain fell silent and smiled "You will find out." Adelram did not like the sound of that. He is a neverborn now and he most likely knows something that will affect them. Adelram clenched his fists "Captain what do you know?" The daemon prince gave a playful shrug "That would kill the excitement lord of sin." Adelram sighed"I did not pick that title. I hate it as well."

His captain leaned down further close to his face "Remove your helmet." Adelram squinted his eyes "What does that have to do with anything?" The daemon prince growled slightly "Remove it." Adelram sighed and removed his helmet and clipped it to his belt. With a swift motion his captain held his face gently with his talons, a grin lined his features he breathed in and out on his face. To Adelram it smelt like perfume. Adelram watched his captain smile "You still look the same. So young. So clean. Now your title? Look at the people surrounding you. How many people have you smashed on the anvil of corruption? They then follow you utterly devoted to you. You have so much pride and you don't realise it. It's quite amusing actually, your title fits no matter if you hate it."

He then released his grip, Adelram rubbed his chin slightly and quickly placed his helmet back on. Adelram watched him then spread ups arms wide he shouted his voice was like an echo that reached into his mind "I will aid you! Yet an announcement!" Adelram wondered what he was going to say. He sighed neverborn always have ulterior objectives. His captain continued "The Phoenician has taken interest in this conflict. He has deigned a prize for the one who can cross the killing fields and take the wall!"

Adelram looked around there was talk amongst the black legion members he looked up to his captain. Considering his announcement it was like he spoke in his mind. He guessed the whole camp heard it. On the pict screen of his helmet a vox link was beeping it was Jedrick. Adelram blinked to open it. Jedrick sounded worried "Adelram we have a problem." Adelram guessed what it was "I assume our forces are leaving the camp?" Jedrick sighed "Yes our old leader's announcement threw everyone into a frenzy. They are rushing out of the camp. They are getting shot to pieces."

Adelram blinked again to close the link. Jedrick's vox line was still beeping. Adelram turned away, Marthas called out "Where are you going?" Adelram turned his head back slightly "Don't worry about where I am going." As he was walking away he could hear his captain laughing. Isira walked forward and stood in front of him "My lord. He is trying to get you killed." Adelram ignored her and kept walking out of the ritual area. Damian stood in his way he frowned "See what he is trying to do? Do you see what Fulgrim is trying to do? Ignore it! We have the aid of the Starlight king!" Adelram looked at Damian and walked past him in silence. Behind him he heard him shout "You are a fool! Go! Walk to your death!" Adelram walked to the edge of the camp. He saw some black legion Astartes having a discussion around bikes. He looked at the bike, then he looked at the fortress.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/17 19:14:49


Post by: shinros


Chapter 34

Commissar Benedict Callum watched from the walls of the fort with several squads of imperial guard. They were also lucky to have the aid of the imperial fists. Benedict found it strange that across the planet heretics were targeting the pylon structures. He watched heavy weapon teams firing at heretics with heavy bolters. The fort also had mounted plasma cannons. They began increasing in fire recently.

Benedict walked to the walls and looked through his binoculars. Heretic Astartes were charging out in the open and were being shot to pieces or incinerated by plasma cannons. Benedict smirked the heretics are running right into their guns. He looked at some of the imperial fist Astartes firing through scopes. They were using stalker pattern bolters.
Benedict in his time of being stationed here has seen many enemies and heretics coming to attack the fortress all have been repelled. Gunned down by the forces of the god-emperor. None have reached the walls and he has been here for almost 12 years.
Benedict looked to the imperial Fist Astartes again thinking, Captain Baledin "offered" or placed some of his men on the walls. They killed with such precision it was awe inspiring to see.

One imperial guardsman was firing the gun draining ammunition at a high rate. Benedict walked over to him "Why are you using so much ammunition?" The guardsman turned to him "Commissar sir. There is an Heretic Astartes riding a bike even his own side is firing at him!" Benedict confused walked to the wall and looked through the binoculars "He saw a Heretic Astartes in black and pink armour wearing a robe driving towards them on a bike." He zoomed in with the binoculars "Even the black armoured heretic Astartes was firing upon him as he drove towards them." Benedict removed his Binoculars he called out "I want two heavy bolters on the Astartes driving the bike!" There was an acknowledgement, he placed his binoculars over his eyes again "He could see the heavy bolter fire being directed at him. He dodged some of the shots with his bike those that should be a direct hit crashed against a shield."

Benedict lowered the binoculars and spat on the ground "Witchcraft...." He called for 2 more Heavy bolters to train on the Astartes. As he said this an Imperial fist marine walked over "Is there a problem Commissar?" Benedict looked to the Astartes "No Sergeant Cornell." Cornell looked over the wall for a moment he then turned back and issued an order to his squad "I want all bolters on the Heretic on the bike."

Benedict moved to respond "It's not nes-" Cornell got his stalker bolter ready and aimed through the sights "It is. Take no chances. The heretic is a witch." Benedict looked over the walls with his Binoculars again he could see the heretic was struggling with the weight of fire being poured on him. Several shots got through hitting various areas of the bike several Astartes rounds hit the front of the bike and the wheel.

The bike began falling apart, the heretic riding the bike crashed soon after that. He toppled forward with the bike crashing to the ground. The crash kicked up a lot of dust yet Cornell called for everyone to continue firing into the cloud. The gunfire lasted for almost a minute.
Benedict saw two purple lights shining in the dust cloud. No not two but three, the dust was soon blown away via something unnatural. Almost half of the heretic's helmet was missing his armour was cracked in various sections. He started to run towards them. Purple electricity lining his armour soon after that fire erupted from the gaps of his power armour.
He was running towards them abnormally quickly. He began increasing in speed many of the heretic Astartes that were running across before either stopped looking in awe or were cut down by bolter fire. Benedict lowered the binoculars quickly and turned he barked an order "I want plasma cannons on that heretic! Don't let the witch get to the walls!" In a swift motion all the Imperial guard on the walls trained the plasma cannons on the witch.

Benedict looked towards the plains again and placed the binoculars to his eyes the imperial fist's bolter rounds were cracking against the shield. The witch was holding up his right hand while running a second later he smelt burning plasma and the sound of plasma cannons firing. He watched the witch move his left hand like he was lifting something up. Benedict in horror saw dead bodies floating in the air. They then moved against the plasma shots that were in mid flight exploding in the air.

Benedict placed the binoculars down again he shouted "I want everything on him!" A imperial guardsmen Sargeant shouted "Everything is on him sir!" Benedict could see even the imperial fists on the wall were focus firing on one target. This was the first time Benedict was at a loss on what to do. He felt his mouth going dry he shook his head "One Heretic Astartes can't make it to the wall. It's impossible." Benedict slowly placed his Binoculars up "The heretic was no longer there. He looked around the field he could not be seen."
Benedict quickly placed the binocular down looking around he walked over to a guardsmen manning a heavy bolter turret he grabbed the guardsmen and turned him around "Where has the heretic gone?" The guardsman gave a weak salute "He was so quick I thi-" In that instant several imperial fists went to one side of the wall aiming downwards. Benedict watched in a fraction of a second the imperial fist Astartes at that part of the wall was consumed in purple fire.

They collapsed to the ground the yellow of their armour burnt away leaving a husk. Cornell walked over bolter raised. Benedict watched as a hand grabbed the edge of the wall. It was pure instinct at that point he drew his bolter and chainsword. He wondered how he did the impossible of reaching the wall how did the heretic even get up here? How?

He called for all guardsmen to get into position to fire soon as they got over. The heretic pulled himself over the wall. His armour bore dents, scratches and cracks. Looking more closely through the missing portion of his helmet he could see the heretic's white hair flowing. Traces of the hair bore purple flame.

His eyes were black like the void itself. Cornell and the remainder of his squad fired in unison. Bolter shells crashed against the shield. The heretic was like a whirlwind of destruction as he hacked apart those who got in his way as he charged to the imperial fists. The Imperial fists then charged the heretic with chainswords raised. When the chainswords contacted the Heretic's blade the chainsword either exploded or was cut through like butter.
Each sword stroke easily cut through power armour. As he cut them the imperial fists were immolated. It was odd to hear Astartes scream it was an alien sound to Benedicts ear. Benedict closed his eyes and barked an order "Fire at will!" All of the guardsmen on the wall fired their lasgun's yet it did not stop him from killing the Imperial fists. He was like a Juggernaut ignoring the las shots. Benedict wondered what was he exactly?

He watched the heretic eventually reach Cornell, Cornell drew his power sword and clashed with the heretic. Sparks and energy flew as they duelled. It was like two demigods fighting. Cornell pushed the Heretic back giving them an opening to fire. Benedict called for another volley.

He watched the Heretic drop to one knee as their shots crashed into him. Cornell moved forward to land the killing blow. The witch raised his hand lightning erupted from it and crashed into Cornell. Cornell collapsed his armour sizzling with electricity.
Benedict was in shock, he looked to his men if this was any other regiment they would cut and run. Yet all the men here resolved themselves. They released another volley, the heretic held up his hand again the las shots crashing again against the shield. Benedict began firing with his bolt pistol cursing.

The heretic began walking slowly towards them, then he moved into a sprint charging into them. In a few seconds two guardsmen were dead. The heretic flicked his flaming sword in an arc another guardsmen died. Benedict kept firing emptying his clip. He shouted "What are you! Monster!" The heretic killed another guardsmen. The heretic spoke his voice was oddly gentle nothing like how he would imagine a heretic or even a witch no less to sound like "You have not seen true monsters yet little man. I will send you to meet them."

The heretic kept up the slaughter some were cut in half others were immolated. They did not even get to scream before they died. Benedict raised his chainsword ready for one last charge for the emperor just as he was about to run forward a black shadow covered him.
Adelram watched as his captain crashed down on the walls hacking the commissar in half with his sword. Soon as this happened the guardsmen broke rank with several swift strikes he killed them.

Adelram was tired. So very tired, he looked at his hand caked in blood he coughed blood leaving his lips. He staggered forward, things were going blurry. He should of not used three of them but he had to get to the wall and take it.

Adelram fell forward yet he felt someone catch him. He then felt himself resting on something Weakly he opened his eyes he was lying on the thigh of his captain. He was grinning with fanged teeth. Adelram gave a weak laugh "Look at you smiling after leaving me behind. I can't help it. I could not help it. When you said his name. I just had to do it."

Adelram felt his helmet being removed he coughed again blood lining his lips. He tried to smile "So how did I do?" He watched his captain lick his lips "Wonderfully. You win, none of the children of torment attempted the challenge." Adelram chuckled "I see as I said they can't handle it. Also, Did he say anything? Anything about me?" His captain shook his head "No." Adelram frowned "I see." Adelram felt a sharp pain in his twin hearts. Adelram blinked "I am going to die aren't I?"

Adelram watched his captain turn his head towards the pylon then down to him "Perhaps." Adelram breathed out "I feel so tired." His captain leaned down "Rest then." Adelram tried to move, struggle upwards. "I can't. Captain. I can't he hasn't..." Adelram tried to get up he then felt blood running down his eyes and nose. Adelram tried to reach upwards, with a long taloned finger he watched his captain push his arm down his voice was almost like a whisper "Rest, Don't worry Lieutenant the dark prince was greatly amus-"

Adelram's eyes closed before he finished his sentence all sound and sensation draining away.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/17 19:15:49


Post by: shinros


Don't get in between an emperor's children marine and their obsession it's not good for your health.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/18 00:29:57


Post by: lliu


I see... You have a severe case of detached body parts. Unfortunately that is very severe and very lethal.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/18 00:39:38


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
I see... You have a severe case of detached body parts. Unfortunately that is very severe and very lethal.


Don't worry his captain is a gentle daemon prince to those he likes!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/18 23:46:38


Post by: shinros


Chapter 35


Jedrick sat in his seat thinking he rode in the rhino they brought down with one of the thunderhawks. Marthas, Sebastian, Silas, Marius and Isira were seated in the rhino with him. Jedrick was puzzled, Adelram did not strike him as someone who would rush off for the "prize" or trust the words of a neverborn even if he knew him when he was mortal. He stared at Marthas, he looked up asking "What is it? Your foul mood is spilling all over the vehicle." Jedrick grunted in annoyance and turned his head slightly "You should of stopped him."

Marthas sighed "Did you expect him to leave the camp steal a black legionnaire's bike and make his way across no man's land? Also making a suicidal run for the wall of a fortress?" Jedrick scowled he knew he was right he was surprised also even now he is still processing what he saw.

At that time he watched from a distance a burning light rising up the wall. Then a light moving across the wall cutting imperials to pieces. When he reached the wall he saw the starlight king taking flight. Jedrick remembered that unsettling grin he had when he flew off. Jedrick wondered how Adelram had the power to do such a thing. Jedrick recalled the small purple orb he whispered under his breath "he most likely used it". Jedrick slammed the wall of the rhino. Sebastian chuckled "Why are you so mad? If he dies we find a new leader." Jedrick snarled in annoyance "Be quiet. If you wish to talk like that. Don't do it in front of me before I kill you."

Marius made a screech in the rhino Jedrick turned to him "No. I won't follow him." Sebastian leaned back in his seat "Why not? He lead us before. Even Marius can see the favour of the dark prince he now has as a neverborn. I am sure we all can sense it. He actually ascended also." Marthas folded his arms "I won't follow him. I refuse to follow a daemon." Sebastian curled his lip in disgust "Who asked for your opinion templar?" Marthas looked at Sebastian he spoke his tone flat "Why should I care that I need your permission to give my opinion?"
Sebastian licked his lips "Perhaps if Adelram is dead I may get to kill you." Marthas held his blade pommel "I am quite confident you won't even get a strike in before I remove your head." Jedrick listened to the argument Sebastian's voice was thick with emotion. While Marthas spoke in clear flat tones, Jedrick wondered why Marthas joined them. He was a black templar they are the most fanatical out of the space marine chapters.

Jedrick looked at Isira she was praying desperately. He could tell she wanted Adelram to be alive when they got to the wall. Even though he is upset with what he did, his actions allowed their whole force to cross the field unhindered. He watched Marius turn his head to Silas he released a dirge of noise. Silas simply shrugged.

Jedrick looked at him "You don't care who leads?" Silas nodded "I don't. Whoever makes things interesting is the person I will follow." Jedrick glowered "Enough talk, he might be still alive." Sebastian clicked his tongue "He is likely dead. I assume he used one of his trinkets, you saw what one did to him. I saw three lights when he fell off his bike."

The rhino ground to a stop. Jedrick drew his axe "Well we are in the fort time to get out." They all stepped out of the Rhino. Jedrick looked at the door of the fortress blown open by the combined sorcery of the children of torment sorcerers. The black legion made a forward base at the doors of the fort. If the imperials want to leave they would have to go through them.

Yet knowing how the imperials fight they are most likely making a final stand at the Pylon at the centre of the fortress. Jedrick ignored the objective he walked up to the walls even if he was not a psyker he could feel the starlight king was on the walls still.

As Jedrick walked to the stairwell entrance leading up he noted everyone was following him. Jedrick laughed "So you want to see if he is alive?" Sebastian smirked "I want to see if he is dead and make an offer to the starlight king." Jedrick held his axe in front of Sebastian "Remember what I said in the Rhino? Ever since the dark prince branded your forehead your talk of betrayal has increased." Sebastian scoffed "Why are you so loyal? I forget you are a dog after all." Marius blurted out a noise Jedrick understood that he agreed with Sebastian.

Silas stepped in between them "How about we go check before jumping to conclusions?" Jedrick placed his axe back down in silence. He looked at Marthas he wondered what he was thinking. He is still an unknown. Jedrick began walking up the stairs his mind racing to see what he would find.

As they reached the wall he saw the starlight king standing over Adelram. He was in a sitting position his back on the wall. His eyes, nose and mouth were covered in blood, Adelram's eyes were closed. He looked up to the daemon prince his hand hovering over him. Jedrick noted the starlight king's hand was glowing.

In that instant Isira ran past him she was crying to his surprise. She rushed towards Adelram kneeled down and grabbed his face. She was wiping away the blood, the starlight king was ignoring her. Jedrick looked to Adelram and then to the starlight king.

Jedrick got into battle stance and shouted "What have you done!" He charged at the starlight king to the shock of everyone. The daemon prince turned his head slightly and smiled "It's been a long time my little wolf." Jedrick snarled "Shut up!" Jedrick raised his axe and drew his combat knife. He made a overhead strike.

The starlight king casually swatted the strike aside leaving him wide open. With his other taloned hand like lighting he snatched him up. Jedrick was struggling "I will kill you! It's your fault!" The starlight king grinned "He made his choice. Still I was right to leave you alive so loyal." Jedrick struggled again he stabbed his knife into his hand it did not phase him in the slightest. The daemon prince with two taloned fingers grabbed his helmet and turned it slightly removing it. He then dropped it to the floor.

Jedrick watched the starlight king staring directly at him. Jedrick narrowed his eyes and stabbed again he scowled as he said "Let me go." The starlight king ignored him. The starlight king gently with two of his fingers he held his cheeks squeezing slightly to open his mouth. Jedrick watched him begin staring at his canines he could not speak. He tried to struggle again his grip was too tight.

Through the corner of his eye he saw Isira stand up and look at him parts of her hair was turning grey tears in her eyes she pointed at the daemon prince "You knew he would do this. That's why you made that lie." The starlight king stopped looking at his teeth and looked at Isira he roared "Watch what you say!" Isira shook her head "No! You abused his suffering and excess! You used that lie to get him to do this!"

As Isira said this Jedrick watched the anger drain from the daemon prince face he grinned "It was not a lie. There is a prize, Adelram won it to the surprise of many of my fellows in my Cohort. Still "he" was not surprised at all that he made it to the wall and won." Jedrick looked at Isira as she looked down to her hands covered in Adelram's blood she bit her lip "Does it matter? He is dead, he feels so cold." Jedrick watched the daemon prince shrug and went back to staring at his teeth.

Jedrick watched Sebastian step forward he bowed slightly "Starlight king it has been a long time." The starlight king did not even spare a glance "What is it?" Jedrick watched Sebastian's tongue flick out "Our leader is dead. You should lead us again, we can be feared again. We can ravage worlds and enslave those who stand against us." Jedrick tried to speak but the starlight kings grip kept him from uttering a word.

The starlight king still did not look at Sebastian as he said "No." Sebastian gave a slight frown it could only be slight due to his face "Why not?" The starlight king shook his head "I have greater concerns. Things are starting to move in the palace and since Adelram won the prize I now have more to do." Silas walked forward "Adelram is dead so what's the point of the prize then." Marthas walked forward and stopped next to Silas "I won't follow a daemon."

Jedrick could see Marius began charging up his gun as Marthas proclaimed that he would not follow a daemon. Marius screeched. He looked at Silas "What did he say?" Silas folded his arms "He said you are not truly one of the third yet so your opinion does not matter." Marthas fell silent and sighed he readied his shield and with a flourish drew his blade. Silas moved back and readied his blade. Sebastian also drew his blade and smiled "I knew I would get to kill you."

Marthas looked around him "You assume Adelram is dead. The things I have seen the forces of chaos do. He would not die to something like this." Sebastian glowered "What do you know? Of the true god? Of slaanesh and chaos?" Marthas shook his head "Asriel showed me he made me follow Adelram. That's who I swore myself to as a heretic. I will not follow a daemon and if you push this matter..."

Jedrick could see that it seemed like the starlight king was half listening to what was happening he turned his head in Marthas direction "I like you even more. I can see why my lieutenant wanted you so much." Jedrick could see Sebastian was growing upset his black tongue flicked out "What is there to like about him!? He is plain and a dullard! He does not understand sensation. He does not understand excess or the dark prince. He does not understand us!"

The starlight prince cocked his horned head slightly "He understands far more than you do. His excess and suffering eclipses yours. Sebastian your needs are far more base and less interesting to be honest." Jedrick watched as Sebastian flicked towards the Starlight king fury in his eyes. The starlight king then looked to his fangs again at this point Jedrick gave up struggling.

Jedrick watched his old leader smile "Marthas is right about one thing. You assume he is dead, considering what his excess is. What his need is why would the dark prince allow him to die? He is far too entertaining to let die."The starlight king released his grip on Jedrick's cheeks. Jedrick turned his head to look at Adelram. He watched Adelram open his eyes with a gasp his eyes were black like the void soon the colour drained away and his eyes returned to normal.

Adelram coughed blood and slowly stood up he wiped blood away from his nose and looked around "Did I miss something?"


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/21 04:04:43


Post by: shinros


Chapter 36


Adelram looked around, his brothers were looking to murder each other. He frowned "So I missed quite a great deal then." Adelram wiped away the blood covering his eyes. Adelram eyed Sebastian and Silas "So why are your weapons drawn?" Silas shrugged and sheathed his blade. Sebastian stood still for a few seconds he shook his head in annoyance. He kept his sword drawn but lowered his stance.

Adelram smiled "That's better. Now Marthas?" Marthas looked at Adelram he sheathed his blade and nodded. Adelram clapped his hands "Good, now let's go destroy the pylon and get off this planet." Adelram looked up towards his captain "Could you put Jedrick down please?" His captain looked at Jedrick, he smiled and gently placed him back down. Jedrick snarled in annoyance he grabbed his helmet from the ground. He placed his helmet back on his head.

Adelram watched Jedrick turn and briskly walked towards him, grabbed his robe "Don't act like nothing happened." said Jedrick. Adelram gave a smile "What's the matter?" Jedrick growled in annoyance "You Died! Don't act like it's nothing!" Adelram shrugged "Well I am alive now aren't I?" Adelram pointed at Isira "She is handling herself well. Why can't you?"

Jedrick gripped his robe with both his hands "She was crying for you." Adelram was surprised he looked at Isira she looked at she always does her hair was blonde and she had a disinterested look about her. He could see her hands were covered in blood, Adelram smiled "Interesting." Jedrick sighed "It's that all you will say?" Adelram looked at Jedrick "So are you wearing your helmet to hide your face? You were quite worried weren't you?" Jedrick stammered a response "N- no! No I wasn't." Adelram smiled "Well then I apologise for worrying you Jedrick. If I decide to charge another fortress I will at least tell you first." Adelram watched Jedrick slowly released his grip he turned away mumbling.

Adelram looked up "Now captain. Will you please summon your Cohort?" His captain stared at him "You won't ask for your prize? Or question it?" Adelram shrugged at his response "You will give it to me when you are ready I take it?" The daemon prince grinned "Of course." Adelram watched his captain open his wings and flew off the wall. His hand started to glow he then produce a black inky ball, he dropped it on the ground mid flight.

Adelram walked over to the wall and looked down in the direction he flown in. The the ink began to spread wide and out of the pool came shapes. Laughing daemonettes and a host of over servants of the prince of pleasure. Adelram turned to Jedrick "So what are the black legion doing?" Jedrick shook his head and shrugged "I did not ask or cared. I was more concerned with the fact that our leader committed suicide. I assume they are moving on the pylon by now." Adelram turned his gaze to the giant structure he wondered what purpose they served. The black legion wanted them destroyed he was trying to think of why they desired to do such a thing.

Adelram looked to the dead imperial fists on the wall, he looked to Marthas "Will you be able to kill them Marthas?" Marthas was about to walk away but he stopped "Do you doubt me? Yes I can even if we have somewhat close ties due to being from the same gene-sire." Adelram walked towards him "You have not repainted your armour yet. I assume Sebastian will keep pointing his sword at you because he views you as a potential traitor." Marthas turned to look at him "Do you think I will betray you?" Adelram shook his head "No, I do think you have to prove yourself to the rest of my brothers." Marthas nodded "I see. Very well, I will take the head of the captain leading the defence." Sebastian laughed "I would like to see that! I see you ending up dead by the battle is done!" Marthas ignored him and walked down the stairwell.

Marius walked towards Adelram and screeched, Adelram frowned "You think my captain would still be a better leader?" Marius nodded. Adelram held his chin thinking "Why is that?" Marius released a strange symphony from his speaker. Oddly enough Adelram could not understand it. Sebastian licked his lips "He said that you have not fully given yourself over to the song yet. I agree."

Adelram narrowed his eyes "Perhaps if you plan to betray me you can do it after the battle is done?" Marius silently turned away and walked down the steps. Everyone else follow suit, Isira began walking and stopped next to him. Adelram looked at her "I hear Jedrick said you cried for me when I died." Isira flicked her hair "I have no idea what he is talking about." Adelram chuckled "You are normally good at deceiving people, but not this time. I never you knew you cared." Isira turned to him her face neutral "I care for you my lord but not that much." She walked down the steps in silence.

Adelram was now by himself, he looked at his hand covered in blood his armour was a ruin. Yet his body did not feel weak. He felt even better than he ever has been before. Adelram tried to picture the point he died. He remembered darkness, then flashes of a woman or was it a man? With blonde hair smiling after that he opened his eyes to see his brothers were about to kill each other.

Adelram sighed and walked down the steps.
As Adelram reached ground level a black land raider came through the entrance. It stopped and the door bay opened. Terminators stepped out when all of the terminators finally left the vehicle Damian left the vehicle. He watched Damian look around their eyes met he began walking over to him. Adelram tried to read his expression at most he could tell he was annoyed or angry.

Damian stopped in front of him "Your stunt proved my point." Adelram folded his arms "My stunt has allowed almost all our forces to cross the field unhindered." Damian narrowed his eyes "At what cost? How many of your warband did you lose? Quarter? Half? None of the children of torment took the bait." Adelram scoffed "Bait? I am quite happy winning my prize thank you." Damian scowled "The prize is most likely nonexistent!" Adelram shrugged "We shall see."

Damian turned away in anger he stopped "We still have an objective to destroy. I can see the daemons making their way to the pylon. We must hurry." Adelram raised his eyebrow "What is happening?" Damian turned slightly "The warmaster has stepped unto the battlefield. We should not tarry" Damian walked back unto the land raider the terminators followed him inside.

The land raider and several black legion rhino's drove away. Adelram looked to their rhino's everyone was waiting for him. He looked at Sebastian and Marius, Adelram knew both of them might be a problem in the future. Most concerning is that Sebastian can understand Marius most likely others in the warband feel the same way they do. Adelram wondered what he was lacking, he then turned his gaze to Jedrick and Silas. Jedrick is loyal, they have been through so much he would be surprised if he did ever betray him.
He began thinking of Silas. He is a wild card, he did not know what to make of him he could easily side with Sebastian and Marius in the future. Adelram watched Marthas standing next to the Rhino resting his hand on the pommel of his sword. Adelram wanted to trust him. He wanted to think his loyalty is assured like Jedrick. Yet it was Asriel that handled his corruption and considering how he failed him utterly he wonders how good of a job he actually did.

Adelram breathed out a heavy sigh. He walked to the Rhino he gave all of them a look, he then look forwards towards the pylon "Shall we get going then?"

Captain Baledin held his eviscerator. he walked the makeshift cover line, his brothers will hold. The imperial guard will hold they have to. He received reports of a lone Heretic Astartes taking the wall by himself he assaulted the wall by himself. It defied all sense of battle tactics and strategy to attempt such a thing yet the traitor did it. He also caught news that the traitor was also witch. Through his sorcery he murdered Cornell and his squad. Baledin clinched his eviscerator in anger. The witch. The heretic will pay.
Baledin looked up to the pylon. Across the planet the traitors were fixated on these structures. Baledin took another look at the line his brothers were ready. Devastators were in position along with tactical marines. Baledin stroked his beard when assessing the guardsman on the line the cadians carried themselves well. There was no sign of fear as they held their lasguns ready. They knew their duty and purpose if only everyone in the galaxy was the same way. Baledin placed his helmet on he breathed the filtered air and readied himself for battle.

Baledin caught the sound of shrill laughter which broke his thoughts. He looked out in the distance. Nothing was there after a second daemons came pouring out of the side streets and paths. They came charging to their line in great numbers. Baledin held up his eviscerator he yelled "Fire at will!" The sound of bolters being fired thudded the air bolt shells crashing into the daemons blowing away limbs, arms and heads pink blood like liquid spraying from limbs. The imperial guard released a volly of las fire. The red lasers seared into the daemons.
Yet that did not stop them, save the the daemons that had their heads or chests blown open. The daemons with missing legs dragged themselves forward while displaying a horrific smile. While the ones with arms missing kept charging the lines.

Baledin shouted another order "Assault marines! Keep them from making it to the line! Any daemon that gets close cut them down!" Baledin heard a acknowledgement in his communicator from the skies came Assault marines. The power of their landing throwing back the daemons the assault marines hacked apart the daemons that got too close to the makeshift cover with chainswords.

Some of the daemons slipped past and reached the line. Tactical marines moved to support the devastators, the imperial guard were not so lucky. Baledin watched an arm less daemon leap on a guardsmen tearing out his throat with its fangs. Baledin hit the switch on his eviscerator to activate it. He charged towards the line hacking apart the daemons that attacked the guardsmen.

Baledin watched Another daemon leaping over the wall Baledin turned to face it. The daemon looked horrific and disgusting. Baledin readied his weapon, as he did so the daemon spoke in his mind "I am not disgusting or horrifying. Your mind is too blunted to recognise beauty." Baledin felt revulsion when he heard its voice.

He watched the daemon grin, Baledin scowled at it he charged he wanted to kill the daemon quickly for speaking within his mind. Baledin made a downwards slash, the daemon dodged to the right. Baledin readied his weapon again and made swung in a arc sideways. The daemon dodged downwards and moved forward. Baledin cursed he was wide open, the daemon smiled It's crab like claws snapping.

Just as it was about to reach him the daemon was showered in las fire. It collapsed, it was now an incinerated husk. Baledin turned he saw three guardsmen holding lasguns he nodded in their direction they turned back to firing the approaching daemons. Baledin looked at the corpse of the daemon oddly it did not smell disgusting. There was a strange scent he could not determine.

Baledin shook his head he had to focus this is another trick to distract him. He looked to the line, the daemons onslaught continued. Baledin raised his weapon again he shouted "For the emperor!" All the Astartes and the imperial guardsmen on the line shouted the same cry reinvigorated. Baledin swore to himself that he will destroy every last heretic and daemon in the fortress.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/21 04:24:49


Post by: shinros


Chapter 37

Adelram folded his arms they were close. He could feel the daemons killing the minions of the false emperor their souls fluttering away. It felt.. good for some reason. He has listened to the suffering of souls many times before when moving through the warp when searching for.. him. It was interesting watching the daemons tear at souls like sharks. He observed them in a scientific manner wondering how they work or if the souls were aware on some level what is happening to them? He also noted that the souls marked by the gods were not there. When one chooses a patron their soul begins to change colour. Many of the souls in that place were white in colouration.

Even so what he was feeling now? The feeling was euphoric, he each scream, each gasp for life and dying breath was like a note. One musical note that wove together slowly into a song. Or perhaps even a prayer? Perhaps it was his death that caused him to finally notice it?

Adelram shifted in his seat slightly, he could see Isira was starting she smiled her thoughts brushed over his as she said "You can hear it can't you?" Adelram did not want to reprimand her for the intrusion he was curious after all it's only been a year since he fully accepted his powers. He sent a thought back to her "I can. I assume this is normal for you?" Adelram tried to remain seated how he was he did not want to give away the fact he was having such a conversation.

He watched Isira cross her legs she flicked her hair slightly "Yes. Those who are awakened have an advantage." Adelram tried hard not to raise his eyebrow he sent a question to her mind "What sort of advantage?" Isira turned her head away from him as she answered "Look to your brothers. How far they have fallen, the depraved acts they do in order to feel. Those who are awakened can feel the unfiltered choir of the warp. That defeats any physical sensation."

Adelram leaned back in his seat slightly thinking. Adelram mind drifted to the thought of betrayal that could occur at any time, he needed to get more powerful. He need more power, perhaps if he gained enough he just might notice him finally. The rhino ground to a stop, the driver called out "We reached the edge of the battlefield." Adelram nodded he looked at everyone in the rhino "Let's end this."

They all murmured in agreement. The bay doors of the rhino opened Adelram stepped out, other rhinos of his warband also stopped. As the Astartes stepped out Adelram did realise they have lost a great number due to charging the wall. At least quarter he guessed. The black legion vehicles also stopped in the path, the black legion outnumbered them by a great amount. The land raider trudged forwards and the doors opened. Damian stepped out with his terminator squad. Damian looked around and approached him.

Adelram looked up to him "What is it?" Damian flicked his heads slightly towards the charging neverborn attacking the imperial line "We will wait until the daemons have worn them down then we will move in." Adelram looked down the path he could see the stream of neverborn assaulting the imperial forces. Adelram nodded "Very well."

Adelram looked to his warband many seem content to wait for the moment after the ordeal of the wall. Yet one person was on edge it was Marthas, he held the grip of his blade tightly. As Adelram approached he drew his blade to his confusion. Marthas turned his head slightly to him he then looked down the path. He charged forward to his shock.

Adelram shouted "What are you doing!?" Marthas did not look back as he vanished in the tide of neverborn.

Marthas ran forward. The captain was here, he has to get to him before the daemons kill him. It was odd charging in battle alongside daemons he was doing his best to ignore them. He looked at one on the right it smiled at him. It's mouth did not move yet he heard it's voice "You want to kill him. To prove yourself no? To remove the first brick. How about we enjoy this together?" Marths felt his nerves standing on end when it spoke.

He tried to ignore it yet it kept speaking "Aren't you upset that your friend was put in a cage?" Marthas ground his teeth in annoyance. The daemon cooed in his mind "You care? Perhaps you will deliver the captains head in exchange for his freedom?" Marthas narrowed his eyes slightly under his helmet. He looked to the daemon and spoke "Perhaps. Yet I bet you have a plan for him?" Marthas could see the daemon making a coy grin. Marthas smiled "So I have nothing to worry about."

As Marthas reached closer to the line bolter and lasgun fire started to fly past him. Marthas raised his shield. Lasgun fire bounced from the shield, when bolter fire crashed against the shield he staggered slightly but kept going. Marthas moved himself slightly to use the daemons as cover. Pink ichor was splashing against his shield as they died against the gunfire.

Marthas, from the corner of his shield could see imperial fist assault marines slashing the daemons with chainswords. If he killed them the daemons could get over the line easier. That means he could get to his objective easier.

He counted 10 Assault marines. Marthas marked out one, he upped his speed getting into a sprint. The assault marine he targeted was busy fighting a daemon. He crashed into the Assault marine he was surprised. The blow with his shield knocked him off his feet. Marthas readied his blade and in a quick motion he bought the blade down the assault marine's neck killing him instantly.

Marthas turned to face the remaining 9. His actions drew their attention, for a few seconds he could see the imperial fists were trying to process what they are seeing. He did not wear the colours of the emperor's children. He still bore his black templar insignia on his shoulder pad it was slashed and defaced.

The confusion lasted a few seconds until two assault marines charged him. Killing just one has allowed daemons to assault the gun line in a greater number. Two assault marines attacked him at once. One assaulted him from the left he batted the attack away his attack with his shield and to the right another assault marine attacked from his right he parried with his blade opening him up.

Marthas made a swift cross slash to the chest of the assault marine on the right he staggered back holding his chest blood leaking from his wound. Marthas looked to the assault marine on the left. The assault marine moved to attack again, Marthas held his shield up and pointed his blade forward. The attack crashed against the shield sparks flying in the air the teeth of the chain blade trying to tear at the shield.

Marthas pushed the strike back throwing his strike wide. Marthas impaled his blade in the chest of the assault marine and twisted. The assault marine collapsed to the ground. The assault marine he slashed before hand charged him again blood spilling to the ground. His chainsword crashed on his power blade the assault marine shouted "Die traitor!" Marthas was silent, he tried to push back both blades clashing against each other.

Marthas clenched his teeth. The assault marines chainsword was edging forwards. Yet he stopped the weight of his attack on his blade vanished he heard a gasp and sigh from his helmet. The assault marine fell to the ground. Marthas saw the daemon he was conversing with before standing with snapping claws drenched with blood.

It's tongue licked out, it turned and charged the line. Marthas breathed out there was seven left he counted to himself. He turned to the assault marines left He found that there were not seven left but four. The death of the first was like a domino. Being in combat with two of them allowed the daemons to swarm the others.

The more daemons that reached the lines meant that less gun fire was coming his way. Marthas looked in the crowd of daemons searching for the Sergeant. He had a power sword and bolt pistol. He looked more embellished.

Marthas raised his shield and pointed his blade to him and charged. Marthas watched the Sergeant hacking a daemon in half pink ichor spilling on the ground. The sergeant turned in his direction just as he was about to strike. The sergeant caught his blade on his.

Marthas could see he was not wearing a helmet. He was bald and had a brown beard. The Sergeant pushed him back. Marthas could see the surprise on his features. He called out "After how much the black templars have done on Cadia one turns!? The odds!?" Marthas shook his head he disliked speaking to his opponents yet he felt the need to "If there are black templars on this planet they are not a part of my crusade." The Sergeant spat on the ground "You are most likely a young Astartes. Black templars rarely if ever go traitor." Marthas shook his head "I was Marshal actually." Marthas could see the clear shock and confusion on his face.

Marthas used that opportunity he pushed the sergeant forward and charged. He made a slash across his chest, the sergeant staggered back. His face was now cold and full of fury. He charged him their blades clashed again and again. Marthas could tell he was good yet in the end he is a Sergeant and he was a Marshal of a black templar crusade.

Marthas parried a blow, he drew his blade back and slashed at his neck removing his head. It was like time was slowing down the din and sound of battle died down. Marthas began thinking in these few short seconds It was easy to kill the others they were wearing helmets. The face of the sergeant was a mix of horror and anger. When the head hit the ground Marthas felt something. The sensation was odd. He could not place his finger on what exactly he was feeling.

His concentration broke as the daemons fell upon the head of the dead sergeant and began tearing it apart. Picking parts of his head apart like jewellery pieces. As Marthas watched this a large black shadow loomed over him.

It crashed down on the gun line. Marthas saw the starlight king howling in pleasure as it began hacking up the tactical marines and the imperial guardsmen. As Marthas watched him kill, he could see each sword swing was precise not even a single movement was wasted. When the blood crashed on his skin it shimmered slightly as it sizzled away. Even the blood itself that was falling to the ground and flying in the air had a strange glow.

He fell into almost a trance with what he was watching. Thoughts filled his mind words he rarely if ever used in his lifetime as an Astartes. It was beautiful. The starlight king turned his head slightly Marthas heard his voice, no not heard felt. Marthas could tell he was Jubilant as he said "You enjoyed killing them. Embrace it. There is nothing wrong in feeding your excess." The starlight king pointed "Your prize. Go take it for my lieutenant."

Marthas looked to the rest of the assault marines a tide of daemons were falling upon the rest as soon as their Sergeant died. Marthas looked forward, the starlight king is opening the way for him. He should take it while he has the chance. Marthas charged forward, everyone on the gun line were directing their guns to the daemons on the line and the starlight king.
Marthas hopped over the makeshift cover. He could see the captain of the company hacking apart a daemon with his eviscerator. Marthas edged forwards and got into his standard battle stance his blade pointed forward and shield raised.

As the captain turned towards him he shook his head "I can't believe it." Marthas silently crept forwards. The captain slowly walked towards him eviscerator held in both hands. They then circled each other. The captain kept speaking "That stance. I don't want to believe it." Marthas wondered what he was talking about yet the voice sounded familiar to him.

The captain spoke again this time his voice was like a growl through his helmet "Marshal Marthas. Now a traitor." Marthas finally picked the memory out he said his name flatly "Captain Baledin." They continued to circle each other "What in the name of the emperor would cause one such as you to fall?" Marthas chuckled he wanted to speak to justify, some part of him had to "I found I was limited just as everyone else. The imperium is also limited and broken."

Marthas could see Baledin tighten the grip on his eviscerator as he spoke "When we fought together during an Ork incursion. You said the imperial fists defend the wall. Black templars pursue the enemies of mankind that seek to harm it." Marthas nodded "I did. I just realised the foundation the wall itself is broken and corrupted. Those we trusted it to have misused it and abuse the ones who defend it."

Baledin shouted "What is this then!? Tratiors are the ones corrupting the foundation of the imperium!" Marthas smiled under his helmet "So why do the traitors have a constant stream of people willing to join them? To give their souls?" Marthas watched Baledin hit the switch on his eviscerator as he spat "They were weak." Marthas shook his head "Everyone is weak including you. Both are hell being a traitor and toiling under the rotten foundation that will never change unless we tear it down. Or another hell where you are free to move, rise, fall or die." Baledin began edging closer "So you want to tear it down then!? Who put such madness within your mind!?" Marthas edged closer "Yes. Yes I want to tear it down brick by brick. The one who is insane is you. The imperium keep repeating the same thing hoping for a different result and are surprised when people do the opposite. The heretics? The traitors? Are always looking for different outcomes to fuel their desires and wants."

Marthas looked at Baledin he charged he swung his eviscerator. Marthas caught it on his shield the weight of the blow almost threw him off balance. Baledin attacked again, Marthas stepped back slightly the teeth sparking against his chest plate. Baledin shouted "What of the Atrocities of the traitor and heretic!" Marthas charged he made a downwards slash, Baledin caught the strike. Marthas pushed down with both hands sparks spilling to the ground. Marthas moved to answer his question "I have committed many Atrocities as a Marshal. To people who did not deserve it. I have killed and purged people who served the emperor faithfully." Marthas felt odd saying emperor. It felt wrong. His tongue tasted something disgusting. Marthas nodded "I mean false emperor." The sensation vanished.
Baledin in anger pushed him back panting slightly "How can you be so calm! Look at yourself! What if the black templars on this planet saw you as you are now!?" Marthas gave a slight shrug "I am sure of myself and my path. I already gave my soul away. I am a traitor and heretic. There is no use for regrets now. The Black templars here are merely more bricks in the rotten foundation of the imperium."

Baledin looked down as he said "Tratior. Scum you are nothing now. You spat on your oath's and everything that you are." Baledin charged him full of anger and fury. Marthas held his place he knew as always when an opponent is upset they make mistakes. All he had to do is wait. Baledin swung again and again with his weapon, Marthas held firm with his shield. He waited patiently

Baledin swung again, Marthas put all his strength in his left arm and swung the strike aside leaving Baledin open. Marthas moved forward and impaled his blade through his chest. Baledin held him he gasped his voice was almost like a whisper "You will die alone. Without brothers and I know in that moment you will feel regret. Right now I know you feel regret." Marthas silently twisted his blade. Baledin gasped again and crumpled off his blade to the ground.

Marthas looked at his corpse. He blinked he felt something but it was not regret. He felt a familiar sensation to when he killed the sergeant. He was not sure whether to run or embrace it. In the back of his mind he heard the starlight king speaking "Embrace it. If you wish to be useful to my Lieutenant. Embrace it." Marthas stared at Baledin's for moment longer. He breathed in and out he let that feeling fill his body.
The combat fatigue and the weariness of fighting was slowly vanishing. He felt better. It felt right. Marthas readied his blade and removed the head from Baledin's body. The head was still within the helmet. Marthas smiled as he said under his breath "One brick removed." Marthas sheathed his blade. Marthas turned to the carnage of the gun line. Daemons were piling on Astartes dragging them down to their deaths.

Daemons were dragging guardsmen into groups. Where they were soon surrounded the daemons fell upon them blood flying in the air. Their howls of torment and agony it pleased it him. Oddly he felt happy. Some groups were tearing away guardsmen armour and clothes while they were screaming for help. The daemons were giggling like... women.
Marthas wondered if this is how the rest of them feel all the time? Yet it did not feel as bad as he thought it was going to feel. It felt good, right even. Marthas began feeling a burning sensation on his right bicep. It tingled slightly then vanished as that happened he could hear each scream more clearly. Each cry of help was more sharp than before. Each drop of blood that hit the ground was almost a cascade of sound.

He was almost lost to it until he heard a humming.

He turned to the pylon that was slowly starting to glow. It lit up with a bright green light afterwards he heard the scream of daemons.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/21 04:40:38


Post by: shinros


Chapter 38

Adelram in the distance watched the pylon light up. The light grew in intensity soon afterwards he felt a wracking pain within his mind. It was like it was going to split open. Adelram screamed. Everyone stopped, Jedrick walked towards him concerned "Adelram what's the matter?" Jedrick tried to reach forward Adelram slapped his hand back he gripped his head. Blood trailing down his nose.

Adelram felt his eyes rolling back. Sebastian walked forward "Is our leader dying again?" Marius screeched, Silas shook his head "The song of the pylon is disgusting?" Marius nodded. Adelram could see nothing things were going dark.

He tried to breathe steady himself. The pain was going down slightly yet the pressure was still there. He looked to see Isira trashing her head about. She dropped to her knees and collapsed.

Adelram took another breath "We need to get to the pylon." As he said this Damian stopped next to him Adelram could see he was about to say something he was going to dislike "We are pulling out." Adelram raised his eyebrow "Why!? We are right here." Damian shook his head "The black legion is pulling out. You can do what you want." Adelram tried to stand upright "Orders from Abbadon?" Damian was silent.

Damian lifted his wrist up and spoke into it. From the sky came Several black legion Thunderhawks. Damian turned away "You are free to leave." Adelram was confused as Damian stepped onto the thunderhawk. He could see several Black Legion Astartes supporting the children of torment Sorcerers. Rhino's and the land raider were being loaded on thunderhawks.

The bay doors closed and they flew away. Jedrick scoffed "Cowards. Good Riddance." Adelram furrowed his brows "They must of left for a reason." Adelram looked to Isira on the floor she was unconscious. Adelram lifted her up with both arms.
He looked down the path to see Marthas running towards him. His Captain was staggering right behind his form fizzling in and out of reality. Adelram could see Marthas was panting holding a head of a imperial fist.

Adelram raised his eyebrow "You actually bought it?" Marthas nodded "I have done what I said I would do." As he said this his captain lurched forwards a scowl lining his face. Adelram turned to him "What's happening? I bet you know." Adelram watched his captain turn his gaze to the pylon slightly "It has been activated. All those touched by the warp feel it. Drawing our power away. My cohort could not hold their forms." Adelram could still feel the pounding headache "So that's what it is." Adelram eyed his captain "So what now?"
His captain looked at him "You leave." Adelram breathed a sigh of relief and called out an order "Right. Get everyone to the rhino's!" Adelram then heard his captain growl slightly. Adelram raised his eyebrow "I am going to hear something I am not going to like aren't I?"
His captain smiled showing his teeth "You are not leaving the normal way. Choices have repercussions that are being felt even now."

Adelram stepped forward "What repercussions?" Adelram watched his captain point upwards "Those you have left on your ship to defend it will die. Not all of them but majority of the souls on the ship." Adelram shouted "Who!" Adelram watched his captain lean down "You know the answer." Adelram said under his breath "Abbadon." His captain nodded. His captain then looked up "This planet will soon be gone also." Adelram's mouth almost fell agape, there were murmurs amongst his warband. His captain gave an unsettling smile "The minions of the anathema hope to use the pylons to close the eye of terror. Abbadon is shattering his black stone fortress and sending it down towards the planet."

Sebastian scowled "How are we going to get off the planet then!?" Adelram heard this and most likely everyone is thinking the same thing. They’re death's are coming. The ship is most likely destroyed and a giant meteorite will destroy the planet. Adelram walked closer to his captain he shouted "Not yet! I won't die yet! I cannot!" His captain held his hand out slightly "Hence why I am giving part of your prize to you. Your warband get's to live."

Adelram's eyes went wide he voiced everyone's thoughts "How?" The daemon prince nodded "Hand me the rest of your orbs. Since the pylon is activated I require them." Adelram handed Isira to Jedrick. He reached into his pouch and pulled out the orbs he crafted. He had ten left.

Adelram handed all ten to his captain. The daemon prince sighed "This should be enough." Adelram raised his hand "What are you planning to do with them?" His captain gave an unsettling smile "I will be sending you away from this world." Adelram blinked "What of our assets!? The ship everything?" His captain shrugged "Count yourself lucky. Many warbands won't live to see the end of these few minutes."
Adelram moved to protest "Bu-", with a purple flash the orbs glew bright. Energy spilled from the orbs a great light consumed him.

Captain looked at all the damage reports. The fleet they were tied to suddenly began firing upon them most systems were critical. He slammed the arm of his throne. He looked at his screen. He looked up to Lily his granddaughter.

Captain held his cane tightly as he said "Lily." She looked at him he could see she was determined. She was ready to die. Lily shook her head "Don't say is grandpa." Captain bit his lips "I am going to say it. You will take Elizabeth and the bridge crew to the docking bay. There is a thunderhawk in the docking bay area. It came back for refuelling."
Lily looked away "I am not afraid to die." Captain slowly held her hand "You need to live. You are our family legacy." Captain slowly removed his jacket and handed it to her "Take it." He could see she was unsure but slowly she took the jacket. He smiled "Wear it please."
Lily slowly put on the purple jacket he nodded. Captain pressed several buttons on his command throne screen a compartment on the bridge opened up holding several autoguns. He stood upright and announced "I have a favour to ask." The bridge workers turned from their consoles. Captain continued "Get my granddaught- no I want all of you here to get to the docking bay. You did fine work I will remain here." He could see concern on all their faces he served with each of them for a long time. Even hand picked many to work here.
There was silence on the bridge until Lily walked to the compartment and picked up a gun she readied it "Stop gawking everyone! Our captain gave an order!" At that announcement several people grabbed guns. The captain nodded "Now. If you see any members of the houses shoot them. Don't ask questions. Who knows where their loyalties lie in this situation."

Everyone in the bridge saluted him. They began briskly leaving the bridge. Captain sighed he looked at a small locket with a picture of the son who betrayed him along with his wife. He placed the locket on the arm rest of the throne and sat down. He began waiting for it. Waiting for it to come.

Lily left the bridge and turned a right with the bridge screw leading up to the navigator throne. Elizabeth was sitting, just as she entered Lily made sure to turn away since she liked to Navigate without a headband. Lily heard her walking down towards her she heard Elizabeth's voice "You can look now. I am wearing it" Lily turned to face her she seemed to not have a single worry in the world.

Lily was about to speak until Elizabeth interrupted her "So you are my escort? I was wondering when someone was going to receive me. It's quite clear the ship is falling apart." Lily shook her head, she eyed Elizabeth "Can you run in your shoes?" Lily watched Elizabeth smile "Don't worry I make sure to wear small boots when navigating just in case." Elizabeth pulled up her skirt slightly revealing her shoes. She then tore her skirt allowing her to run better.

Elizabeth smiled again "Shall we go?"

They made their way down the hallway to the docking bay area. There were screams and shouts rivalries spilling out between cultists. They did not have to use their guns yet. Lily was hoping that did not have to. As they were about to reach the docking bay they saw a group of people. Members of the house of warriors. The person Lily assumed to be the leader was wearing a latex gas mask with combat gear.

His men had guns raised. Lily's group raised their guns also. There was a stand off until the man in the mask gave a single to lower their guns. The house of warriors cultists slowly lowered their guns. The man spoke his voice somewhat joyful despite the situation "Looking to escape? We were going to the thunderhawk." Lily kept her gun raised "Who are you?"
The man gave a casual shrug as he said "Charlie. My master told me to stay on the ship just in case we get boarded." Lily frowned "You may look to kill us." Charlie shook his head "The pilot asked me to see watch out for you." Lily was surprised "Why did he not leave? Many of the Astartes on the ship are selfish."

Charlie scratched the back of his neck "Well think of it this way. If we somehow survive and our lord finds out he left the navigator and the captain of the ship to rot and die. What do you think will happen?" Lily slowly lowered her gun "Lead the way then."

Charlie nodded and ran forward with his squad. They ran through the halls for a few more minutes eventually reaching the docking bay area. There were two Astartes guarding the loading bay of the thunderhawk. It was empty save for a few dead bodies on the floor.
Both Astartes raised their bolters and lowered them. Lily ran over to them "Are we going planetside?"

The Astartes shook his head "No, Abaddon has sent his fortress crashing to the planet. Focus on getting off the ship alive." Lily nodded and gestured the bridge crew on. Charlie's squad walked on afterwards.

Charlie stopped and was looking in the corner Lily turned to him "What are you doing?" Charlie looked up "Well.. I have to save a friend of course."
Asriel was watching people leave on the thunderhawk. They were paying him no mind but someone came running over. It was charlie he was surprised, shocked he wanted to speak to say something. That he should leave.

Asriel watched Charlie bend down "How about we get you out of here Asriel." Asriel shook his head he tried to gesture with his hands for him to leave. Charlie laughed "You saved my hide two times. I have to return the favour. Albert was looking to kill me for awhile and the church..." Asriel turned around and grabbed his torn journal. Adelram threw him in with it, he opened a page.

Quickly with a pen he scribbled down a sentence and showed charilie. He could see Charlie is reading he then looked at him "This is meant to happen?" Charlie removed his gas mask, Asriel could see his face had a few piercings he smiled "I am not religious like our Larry. So I am just going to do what I want." Asriel frowned he scribbled again in large letters "Leave!"
Charlie shrugged again "Anyway I don't see a way to open this thing." Asriel watched Charlie walk around the cage. Asriel felt the cage moving he turned behind him he almost spoke he looked at Charlie. Charlie looked at him through the cage and smiled he could see he was struggling to move it "Don't make that face. You always make that face, when I gathered the workers to beat you up. When we argued when we were lower ranked slaves. I bet you made that face when you stayed in the church. Don't make that face not now."

Asriel felt Meliva shifting in his mind "So foolish, yet interesting. I can't wait to see him die." Asriel heard a Astartes shout "We are leaving soon! Leave the creature!" Charlie looked up "Just give me a second! My lord!" Asriel turned slightly he could see the Astartes stepping unto the thunderhawk the bay doors slowly closing yet Charlie kept pushing. The thunderhawk left the docking bay area, to Asriel's horror.

Asriel looked up, Charlie stopped pushing he sat his back to the cage out of breath "Sorry. I wish I was stronger." Asriel looked at him sweat lining his brow, Charlie chuckled slightly "I said don't make that face. You know back in the past I hated you" Asriel was confused. Charlie continued "Well now I don't. I looked at you back on Athor how you got by without dirtying your hands that innocent look about you. I wanted to stick it to you the team leader provided the opportunity. Well actually in the end I wanted to be like you. When you stuck up for Larry part of me was impressed to be honest."

A part of the docking bay exploded, Charlie smiled "How many times have you thrown yourself on the altar for others? You could of got revenge for what we did to you back on Athor. Yet you didn't. You could of easily ran out of the church yet you chose not to. Even now I guess you are doing it again. Why? You are hated called a creature people have made attempts on your life. I know for sure you did not kill them for no reason. Now Lord Adelram has disowned you. Even now you follow his order not to speak. So why?"

Asriel scribbled down something and showed Charlie he laughed "Are you serious? Truly? If any of the Astartes saw what you wrote they would laugh at you even the ones that like you. They would call you fool, delusional or the fact that all you are is a servant or even slave." Asriel wrote something else and showed Charlie he gave a weak smile "You don't care? Honestly with a neverborn in your head you are like an angel compared to most of the people here. Your excess is weird." Another part of the bay exploded.

Charlie turned to look at Asriel, Asriel could see he was ready to die yet he smiling as he said "Asriel, let me tell you something. Don't change no matter what follow that need to the end. This warband your lord may not realise it but he needs your help. You are his help." As he said this they were consumed in a flash of purple light. Asriel was tumbling in a purple storm the cage was eroding. Asriel saw thousands of shapes tearing people to shreds. He could see Charlie giving a soundless scream and his clothes, skin and organs were torn apart.

Asriel looked at the planet dying, cracking apart. The shapes tried to move to him they moved back like a lesser predator sensing a greater one. Asriel felt his mind collapsing under a great weight he could feel Meliva wrapping around his mind like a shell. It got harder to think he was getting tired. He turned he looked at the eye expanding engulfing the galaxy.
Asriel tried to move he could not breathe, he felt cold. The warp energy rapidly hurtled towards him crashing into him he felt an intense heat then nothing.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/21 04:43:01


Post by: shinros


Epilogue
Asriel gasped. He was lying on the ground, he heard people. At least he thought it was people. He tried to stand up his legs were wobbly. Asriel looked around he was in a alleyway. Asriel looked around for his Journal. It was on the ground behind him sitting in the grime of the ally way he picked it up and wiped some of the grime off.

There was also a strange spherical object next to it. Asriel reached down to pick it up.
It was a skull, a clean bleached skull. Asriel looked at it he wanted to cry yet no tears would come. Asriel held the skull tightly and walked out of the alley way. He saw a city, people looking up pointing to the sky. Asriel looked up a great warp scar in the sky a great line across the sky. Asriel thought of Meliva "Where are you?" he said to himself. Asriel felt Meliva moving "I am tired I am must rest it took much to protect you. Our work begins." Asriel gripped his Journal and the skull tightly. He turned back into the ally way.

Adelram gasped he looked around he was lying on rubble. Adelram slowly stood up he was in a city. A war torn city there was no one walking the streets. He wondered where did his captain send him to? He looked around he was the only one here. His amour was still a ruined mess from Cadia. Adelram slowly walked down the hill of rubble scratching his head in confusion.

He looked up and saw a giant scar across the sky. He could feel or sense that it is the warp, his confusion grew. Adelram shrugged as he said out loud "Guess I should explore and search for my brothers?" Adelram walked the streets wondering what he would find in this war torn city.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/21 04:45:14


Post by: shinros


So yeah. That's book 1 Done. I am going to continue it. Perhaps even start a new story based on AOS alongside it thinking of doing a clan pestelins army*hint hint*. Who knows I may even put pictures of the warband in this thread. I hope everyone enjoyed it!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/21 12:40:13


Post by: lliu


Yup I really enjoyed the story. Nice job!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/21 15:28:06


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Yup I really enjoyed the story. Nice job!


Thank you. Your comments were also great to read and a great motivator. I hope you enjoy the next part. Honestly I am itching to get started since I am painting the warband. Might put some pictures up with the chapters.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/29 00:44:30


Post by: shinros


Chapter 1

Entry 10875

I sat in the usual spot waiting for him. We always sat here, to debate or perhaps to hold unto our sanity. I do wonder at times are we even sane to begin with? After countless murders I moved to gang warfare. Those times I ran with gangs.. i am quite fond of those memories. I cared nothing for their narcotics trade or kidnappings but what I took pride in was being a hitman soon after I grew out of it and moved to assassination. All of it seemed "normal" to me for some reason.

To remain on topic the person I was waiting for someone I considered a "friend". Honestly? I was so happy when I found him. I almost gave up hope finding anyone. It was hard. So very hard I laid the ground work it was almost time. All I had to do was wait for him to appear. My friend appearing was a sign. A sign to be ready.

Eventually my friend turned up to our spot.( I refer him to as friend in my entries due to the fact that for some reason he does not like me referring to him by name whenever I write in my journal) He sat down next to me he still had that dour look about him. I always had to start the conversation if I did not we would sit here in silence. Today was different.

He turned to me and asked "What are the chaos gods?" The question surprised me he had no interest before. I then told him of the four. Khorne the god of war and blood, Tzeentch the god of change and magic, Nurgle the god of pestilence and decay and finally the god that has claimed us. Slaanesh the god of excess. I watched him scratch his chin thinking. I asked him why is he so curious? It took him almost a minute to answer. He looked out in the distance and asked me another puzzling question "Which one is the strongest?" In that moment I thought back to the study I had with Ivan so many years ago. I recalled that he said khrone was the "strongest" slaanesh was the "weakest" due to being the youngest of the four. Yet I tried to point out to him that their power waxes and wanes.

I watched him shake his head in annoyance. He smiply got up and walked away.


Adelram walked the streets of the war torn city, he wondered where he was and what place his captain sent him to. The silence disturbed him, there was no life not even the sound of insects. He could tell by the damage to the various buildings that this city has seen decades of conflict. Adelram looked up to the warp scar in the sky no matter where he walked it was clear to see.

He began thinking of the conflict on Cadia, how the black legion began firing on their ship according to his captain. Just due to the fact he rejected to join them. He wondered if Abbadon is that petty to do such a thing. He folded his arms in annoyance as he walked, he began thinking of his brothers. Whether they are even alive.

If he woke up on this world perhaps others have and for what purpose did his captain send him here? Or perhaps he picked any random world to send them to. Still he recalled the moment that sending him away is part of his "prize" Adelram wondered what was the other part?
Adelram pouted. He then caught a sound of feet he was being watched. Adelram stopped in his tracks he sent his mind out trying to sense if anyone was in the general area. He sensed several people yet when his mind touched their's his mind retreated back. A sense of revulsion gripped him.

Adelram spat to the ground as he said "nurglites". He knew in that moment this could be a problem. They watched him for unknown purpose and he has no idea who they reported to. Adelram smiled he thought to himself that they might be wondering if they could take him by themselves. Adelram closed his eyes and cloaked himself in purple fire he continued walking.

He could sense them moving away. So he guessed right, the state of his armour could even make the bottom feeders think he might be "easy" pickings. Adelram thought of two things they might be minor cultists which he should be able to handle if push comes to shove or they might serve a warband.

If they did serve a warband he would have to find his brothers soon and quickly. Adelram reached a plaza the statue displaying an imperial saint was ruined and defaced. Signs and symbols of nurgle were written all over it. Adelram sighed he knew looking at this statue and the state of the city they are most likely serving a warband.

As he thought this he heard a gurgling then a chant. The chant moved to a prayer as robed people walked out of the side streets. They were lead by men and women swinging censers that bellowed green mist. The nurgle cultists surrounded him, Adelram intensified the flames that were dancing on his armour this time they don't seem deterred.

A man wearing a stained olive robe and hood stepped forward. Four censers swinging from each of his fingers. He smiled with stained teeth his voice sounded as if he was gurgling something "Defiler! How dare you defile the sanctity of a blessed place of worship! Disgusting servant of the serpent!" Adelram narrowed his eyes at the cultist he assumed he was the leader, he tried to sound diplomatic as possible as he said "I arrived here recently. Move out of my way and I won't incinerate you."

The cultist leader spat his reponse green mucus leaving his mouth "You even threaten the faithful in grandfather's holy place!? The arrogance! He will smite you!" Adelram sighed as he released a torrent of flame from his hand burning several cultists to cinders. The cultist leader pointed at him he yelled spittle leaving his mouth "Attack! Protect the grandfather's holy ground!"

The nurgle cultists swarmed him holding crude weapons and auto pistols. Adelram eyed their weapons he could sense a foul energy about it. He had to make sure their weapons don't make contact with his skin. Adelram threw balls of fire at the cultists each fireball impact incinarting several cultists at once.

The cultist leader kept shouting "Curse your sorcery! Kill him! Kill him now for Grandfather!" The cultists redoubled their assault, Adelram cursed they were closing in quickly. One cultist approached he made several stabbing motions with his blade trying to get into the gaps of his power armour. Adelram quickly drew his blade, he sliced the cultist sword wielding arm off. The cultist stopped his assault and howled in pain he screamed "Grandfather protect your child!"

Adelram readied himself he twirled his blade and gripped it with both hands the blade ignited. The cultist stopped screaming he looked at him his face covered in boils he smiled with yellow stained teeth the cultist hissed "Yes I shall do it grandfather!" The cultist leapt on Adelram trying to hold him down. Another cultist came from behind grabbing unto his back pack.

Adelram breathed in and released a jolt of lighting blasting them back. The cultists bodies were charred black by the blast. Adelram grunted as he bisected another cultist he knew he could not keep this up forever. Out of the side street a rhino came truding, it was black and pink in colouration.

Adelram's twin hearts jumped slightly at the sight the rhino crashed through the cultists breaking limbs and smashing cultists in paste. The Rhino stopped next to him the doors opened he smiled when he saw the Astartes stepping out. It was the kakophoni. It was Marius's squad.
Marius stepped out he blankly looked at him with a swift turn he began blasting cultists with his sonic blaster. The cultists were reduced to mist with each volly from their guns. Adelram watched the carnage as it unfolded, as the Kakophoni killed they began to sing a baleful dirge. Adelram continued showering the approaching cultists in fireballs. He found it hard to focus when the Kakophoni were singing yet they did not relent with each death they sang louder and louder.

The song began reverberating, shattering some of the ruined buildings. The defaced statue started to cry black tears as it cracked under the sound. Cultists were holding their ears as they cried tears of blood. Marius then levelled his sonic blaster at the kneeling cultist leader and fired his gun.

The cultist leader did not even get to scream before he was reduced to a red mist. With his death the cultists began falling back covering their ears. That did not deter the Kakophoni they walked forward continuing to fire in the backs of the fleeing nurgle cultists eventually they cleared the plaza.

Adelram watched Marius lower his sonic blaster. Adelram approached "Marius? I thank you for the timely aid." Marius turned to him Adelram got a better look at his armour it was far more garish in colour than before it almost hurt his eyes slightly. Marius released a oddly soft sound. Adelram nodded "Yes I awoke by myself. Still where are we?"

Marius released several sounds over a few seconds, Adelram held his chin "I see. So this is the planet of Zatos. It is a civilised world." Marius nodded. Adelram began thinking of his other brothers he looked Marius in the eye "What of the others? Have you seen Jedrick?" Marius screeched he said something he could not believe "Jedrick has betrayed the warband? They have betrayed the will of slaanesh? Marthas and Silas as well?" Adelram did not want to believe it especially in the case of the Jedrick.

He turned away from Marius thinking of the possible reasons perhaps there was a falling out or... He turned to face Marius "It can-" Marius and his Kakophoni levelled their sonic blasters at him. Adelram narrowed his eyes "What are you doing?" Marius screeched again. Adelram blinked he was shocked and surprised "You are doing the will of the dark prince?" Marius nodded as his squad released a sound wave.

Adelram screamed he dropped to his knees, he felt blood pooling from his nose. Blood trailing down his eyes. Adelram thought to himself he had to stay awake yet the pain was unbearable. Adelram slowly tried to get to his feet as he did so the soundwave increased he gasped he felt his eyes rolling back as he collpased to the ground.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/29 21:01:23


Post by: shinros


Chapter 2

entry 10879

As always I sat in the same spot this time I was cleaning my blade. Killing the followers of nurgle is quite troublesome they don't die easily espicaelly the Astartes. I even have to double tap some of the cultists. I soon developed a routine when cleaning my blade. First I wipe away the blood with a cloth then I ignite the blade to burn away any excess blood or grime leaving it pristine. My friend as always came and sat down next to me.

There was silence between us. He asked another question to my suprise again he said "Is there a way to make slaanesh the strongest?" I had no idea how to answer that. I only had some basic study with Ivan. Yet the question spawned a discussion I asked why does he want to know if there is a way to make slaanesh the strongest? He kept that same dour expression as he answered he noted that many that follow us can't handle the sensation overload. They become lazy or consumed in their own vices. They become directionless, empty and useless.
When he said that I agreed. I raised the point since slaanesh is excess itself there are many ways to do it. Unlike followers of Khorne who have one demand from their god. Make war and spill blood in his name. Slaanesh on the other hand desires that people just follow whatever excess they want.

I watched my friend kneel his face on his fist. He told me that's a problem that needs to be fixed. I asked him how he plans to do that? Since to many humans and Astartes that is the common way of worship. My friend began mumbling, I imagine if I was not possessed I would not hear his words what I caught out was that he wanted to change that.


Adelram felt himself being dragged. He could hear voices, screams of agony and pleasure. He was still groggy due to the sound blast. He then felt himself being thrown forward with a thud. He slowly got to his knees he heard a familiar voice "Adelram. It's been quite some time." Adelram almost shot up when he heard his voice "Sebastian!?" Adelram blinked rapidly trying to clear his vision due to the sound blast.

It was slowly coming back still his suprise turned to anger "Why did Marius attack me!" Adelram could see a somewhat black shape. He could not see Sebastian clearly but he radiated power far more than when he last saw him. He felt someone touching his cheek there was a heavy musk filling his nostrils. Sebastian spoke into his ear "I lead the warband now."

Adelram grit his teeth in anger he tried to summon his power it was rising he soon felt a blunt force smashing on his chest. Adelram fell to the ground he coughed blood. Sebastian tutted "If you use your sorcery I will hit you with this deactivated power mace or my dear Marius will deliver another sound blast." He felt two people steadying him again Sebastian continued speaking "You were always a fool. Before you embraced slaanesh and even now you are still a fool. You are still afraid of taking the plunge completely to give yourself to the dark prince completely and utterly."

Adelram tried to give a response "Y-yet I am marked." Adelram heard a shrill laugh from Sebastian he responded his voice mocking and full of venom "And? The dark prince can easily take it away. Many in the warband have been marked for a far longer time than you have. You lead us yet the dark prince has not shaped you. Like he has shaped me or even Marius." Adelram spat blood to the ground "So now you want to gloat? I can see why Jedrick, Marthas and Silas "betrayed" you." Adelram felt Sebastian tapping his cheek. He got another noseful of the musk. Adelram could feel Sebastian's bare hand on his cheek. Sebastian drew his nail across his cheek without spilling an ounce of blood "Those three are fools. Out of the warband it was only those three who opposed me." Adelram's hearts sank slightly when he heard that. He thought to himself of the Astartes save three are following Sebastian?

The scent of musk vanished from Adelram's nose "So why does the warband follow you?" said Adelram. Adelram squinted his eyes trying to get a better picture of Sebastian his vision was slowly coming back. He could see Sebastian turning to face him he spoke with that same mocking grin on his face "I let our brothers be who they are. All the slaves. All the frail humans are meat to make us feel." Adelram chuckled "So you let them waste resources."

The musk filled his nose again as he felt Sebastian holding his face close to his. Sebastian spoke in almost a whisper "Yet the favour of the dark prince is upon us. I am quite sure Marius showed his prowess to you." Adelram grit his teeth and put the question to Sebastian "So why haven't you killed me?"

Adelram felt Sebastian kiss him on the cheek, Adelram wanted to remove his eyes when he did that. Sebastian then answered his question "You are still my brother and I want to give the gift of suffering to you. I made a new helmet for you."

The scent of musk vanished again. Adelram tried to blink rapidly his vision was finally coming back as he got full view of the camp. Humans chained in a line being picked by Astartes and bought into tents. All he could hear were screams coming from them. Blood slacked the chains, the slaves looked bruised and beaten.

Some slaves were crucified on poles screaming with agony. Adelram looked around him his brothers their armour had strange art a mix of various colours. Many of them were now clearly mutated. He could see Sebastian holding his arms out wide. His long black tongue flicking out, his sword shimmering with power.

Adelram tried to look at his soul. Sebastian's soul fire was like a blazing inferno he had to look away. Sebastian gave him a wry grin "You saw greatness didn't you?" Adelram did not answer his question he no longer wanted to give him the satisfcation.
He watched Sebastian shrug as he gestured for a chained and beaten slave to get him a glass of wine. The slave soon approached with the glass head cast low. Sebastian took it and began sipping from the glass. He smiled "Bring the present I prepared for my brother!"
Out of a tent an Astartes was carrying a busted helmet with a small jewel embedded in the helmet he walked over to him. Two Astartes along with Marius held him place. Adelram knew there was no point resisting right now Sebastian had the advantage for now.

The Astartes holding the helmet stood in front of him. Adelram recognised him, it was Noxus. Adelram scowled "I wonder what Jedrick would think." Noxus laughed "He is a coward and traitor, now..." Noxus placed the helmet on his head soon as he did so Adelram felt his powers bleeding away along with a headache. Noxus held the helmet in place.

Adelram began thrashing "What are you doing!?" with the helmet on his voice come out like a muffle. Sebastian took another sip "I smashed the voice module and placed a rare jewel within it. It's a psy-Jammer." Adelram kept struggling as Sebastian called out "Bring the welding torch!" Through the eye lenses Adelram could see another Astartes coming out the tent holding a welding torch.

The Astartes approached, he activated the torch and Adelram soon felt an intense heat around his neck. Marius and the Astartes holding him let him go. He looked up to see Jedrick holding the deactivated power mace.
Sebastian walked towards him his movement was like a flash, Adelram soon felt a thundering pain in his chest Sebastian began laughing as he swung away at him. Adelram could not summon his powers. The gem was blocking it. He tried to reach for it embedded on his helmet. As he did so Sebastian smacked the arm and then he hit him again in his chest.

Adelram coughed blood in the helmet. He sagged down. He could hear Sebastian panting slightly as he said an order "Marius sing for Adelram again. Perhaps a higher pitch." Adelram heard a hum as Marius sonic blaster charged up again. The pain this time was far more intense. The sheer agony. Adelram screamed, after a few seconds the sound stopped.

Adelram fell to the ground breathing heavily within the helmet welded to his armour. He could see Sebastian standing over him smiling "Take him into the enemy territory leave him for the followers of nurgle. Oh and sing one more song for him Marius." Adelram heard the same hum of the sonic blaster, the pain soon returned.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/29 21:02:08


Post by: shinros


It must be so nice for Adelram to be going from cadia in a moment to this situation.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/30 00:12:25


Post by: lliu


Yes indeed. How wonderful.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/31 15:59:50


Post by: shinros


Chapter 3

Entry 10888

I was sitting in the usual spot checking my guns and equipment. Considering how many I had it took a few hours to complete maintenance. I normally take equipment according to what I am doing at the time or who I am planning to kill. For Astartes I normally take my crossbow it took several months to make and gather the parts.

The crossbow bolts could easily pierce ceramite armour. Oddly enough Meliva enjoyed the weapon as well. Perhaps it's due to the fact I created bolts that explode on impact. I filled the tips with small wire so when the bolt explodes the wire then slashes whatever it enters due to the force of the explosion. When it comes to Astartes I normally aim for the head so the wire slices apart the brain perhaps killing them instantly or making them easier to kill.
The weapon itself is quite large but sharing your body with a neverborn has certain benefits in strength, regeneration, awareness and "other" abilities. As always my friend sat next to me. He is impressed with how diligent I am in maintaining my weapons. At that time I coutined cleaning my weapons in silence.

This time I asked the question I asked him whether he found the means to fix his problems. He looked at me he told me that this is also my problem as well. I stopped the maintance and looked directly at him. I obviously asked him why. He narrowed his eyes at me as he said "You will fall into degeneracy like all the rest." I was not exactly upset when he said that but I was not pleased either. I pointed out that it could happen to him. I pointed out that I have seen him shifting, gazing at the slaves we capture. Yet he does not partake.
My friend retorted that I did the same thing(I do no such thing I have no such interest since the events of the church. Doing things like that is... mundane and shallow to me now). I pointed out that I am not like everyone else. What I need to do required focus and I had more important matters to attend to than tormenting slaves.

My friend pressed the matter further asking "How do I retain focus? How do I slake the need?" To be honest when he asked me that I never thought about it. I was silent for a moment without giving an answer my friend sighed heavily. He moved back to our topic on the gods he asked me another question "How do the gods gain power?" I twirled a bolt as I answered there was one thing Ivan was right about all the gods feed on suffering and death it's like a prayer to them. My friend stroked his chin in understanding and simply got up and left me to my maitinance. I wondered at that time what answer my friend would find?


Adelram was escorted to another part of the city in a rhino he was surrounded by Astartes in the vehicle. Adelram wanted to use his powers if so he could possibly escape somehow. Yet the psy-jammer prevented him from doing anything.
If he reached for the Jewel they would move their hands to their guns. Adelram was sitting across from another Astartes with small horns and proclean skin with a pink hue. He gave a mocking smile "Our old useless lord. I wonder why Sebastian simply does not kill you?" Adelram wanted to speak but all that would come out would be muffles.

The Astartes continued "We did not follow you. We followed Jedrick and now Sebastian. You believed that your powers meant you could control us." The Astartes leaned forward slightly "Your powers are nothing compared to what I have seen. Even the nurgle sorcerers I have seen human and Astartes are more powerful than you." Adelram wanted to shut him up. To prove that he was not weak.

The Astartes mocking him then leaned back into his seat. The drive lasted several minutes, the rhino came to a stop. Adelram was escorted out of the vehicle. Adelram could tell even in the war torn city that this was a poorer part. He did not even need to have his psychic powers to tell that this place is influenced by Nurgle.

His escorts turned him around. The Astartes mocking him walked forward he smiled "I should at least tell you my name. Since I will be shaming you right now." He gave a slight bow "I am Gethus. Now..." Adelram watched Gethus grip his robe and tear it away. He threw it to the ground and spat on it.

Gethus gestured to one of the Astartes "Get the maces." Adelram watched the Astartes head to a conpartment of the Rhino pulling out more deactivated power maces. The Astartes began handing it out to the Astartes present he handed the last one to Gethus.
Gethus tapped the mace in his hands. "Now we will break your legs. Can't let you run now could we?" The Astartes began circling him. Adelram took several breaths. Gethus along with his squad moved in and began striking the legs.
Adelram fell to the ground even then they did not stop. The pain, the agony. Adelram swore he would not scream he would not give them the satisfaction of his voice. They kept striking his legs for several seconds.

Adelram began seeing black dots. He was slipping out of conciouness he grit his teeth. Gethus began laughing "Why are you not screaming our useless lord?" Gethus leveled his mace and activated it. He smashed down on his leg shattering the ceramite and bone. Finally Adelram screamed. Gethus laughed "There it is!"

Gethus did it again to his other leg. Adelram could not even scream this time the black dots were increasing. Gethus stepped over him still holding his mocking smile "We are leaving now. Give our regards to our diseased cousins."
Adelram watched Gethus leave his vision. He then heard the Rhino driving away. Adelram tried to move he could not feel his legs. If he tried agony would grip him. He lay on the ground looking up. The black dots were still in his vision he tried to focus yet he could not.
Adelram swore as he thought that he can't die here. He wondered why is this happening? What did he do to end up in this position? He lay motionless on the ground he is favoured. He knows this he has slaanesh's mark and stormed a fortress wall by himself. He was bought back to life afterwards. Adelram kept repeating that same mantra within his mind yet a strange emotion kept crawling into his chest. Doubt. That emotion that gave him dread doubt. He began doubting all the decisions he made in the past. Wondering where he went wrong what did he do wrong.
He wanted something so simple. Yet no matter how hard he tried it never came even after he won the "Prize." Adelram kept thinking about this and soon his doubt turned to regret. That disgusting notion that felt like a stain in his mind and hearts regret.

Adelram's gut soon felt empty the sensation only increased. He felt like a part of him was dying bleeding away. The brand on his arm the mark of slaanesh he felt it vanishing, removing it itself from his skin. Adelram cried out loud "No! Please!" inches by inches he could feel his mark on his arm being picked away slowly. It was not ripped away it was like the dark prince wanted him to know he failed somehow.
Finally after a few agnozing minutes he felt it. He felt like a part of him was now missing Adelram felt his lips trembling. In instinct he looked up to the warp scar in the sky.

Adelram shouted "Father! Please! Let me see you! Just this once! Please I beg you!"

He was shouting to nothing. A deep despair gripped him he was afraid fear paraylzed him. He did not know how to react he was actually terrified. He began thrashing on the ground like a child trying to move even if he felt pain trying to move his legs slightly. Adelram began to hear chanting the same gurgling prayer at the plaza by the cultists he froze in an instant. Out of the streets and roads came walking nurgle cultists. A Astartes in green armour holding a wooden staff was leading them. He wore a purple hood that obscured his face his belly almost bursting out of his power armour.
There were two more Astartes at his right and left both had swollen bellies. The one on the right had a long vile tentacle coming out of the mouth piece of his helmet. The Astartes on the left wore a hood with two antlers sticking out of it his face obscured by a chainmetal veil.
The cultists surrounded Adelram. The Astartes holding the wooden staff walked over to him smiling with rotten teeth. He sounded hoarse as he spoke "Child of despair we have come." Adelram tried to shout "No! Go away!" Adelram began to try to crawl away. The horned Astartes stopped him and turned him over to his belly. He placed his foot on his chest to keep him from moving.

The staff wielding Astartes coughed "Now, now. We are here to help you. Introductions are in order. I am Biberlus Rotfoot." He gestured to the Astartes with the antlers "This is Pus." Pus nodded. Bibilus gestured to the other Astartes with the tentacle flailing out of his mouth piece "This is Boil." Boil pounded his chest with his hand.

Biberlus walked around Adelram smiling with flaked lips "We are of the Death guard. Grandfather whispered to us that there will be a child longing for a family here." Adelram shook his head "Never! I will never join you!" Biberlus laughed for some reason able to understand the low sounding muffle he placed his hand to his trying to hear "Oh. You won't join us? How about we talk about this further?" Biberlus clapped his hands Adelram began hearing the buzzing of flies. Bibilus chant continued the sound of flies intesified.
Adelram was shocked how did he do that in proxmity to the psy-jammer? Or perhaps he was strong enough to overpower it? From the buildings came thousands of flies. All the nurglites raised their hands in prayer even Pus and Boil.
Adelram watched the flies descend upon him he screamed.

Adelram felt lost and purposeless. He walked in the darkness he saw his Primarch walking ahead of him. Adelram ran he tried to reach him but he kept walking further and further away. Adelram tried to shout "Please wait! Father please! Please look at me! Please!" Adelram soon stopped.
He saw his captain walking past him, Adelram chased him yet he could not catch up he could see his captain walking beside his primarch. Adelram tried to sprint he could not catch up. Soon afterwards seveal prominant captains of the third and the lord commanders walked past him reaching his Primarch. Even Fabius.

Adelram held his head and dropped to his knees and finally he saw sebastian walking past him. He looked at him his face the same mocking grin the dark prince shaped his face with. He watched them leave in the darkness. He was alone. Utterly alone.
He said to himself "It would never happen. It won't happen ever." Adelram began sinking into the darkness he continued "I can never reach him. He will never look at me." Adelram sank even further the darkness reaching his lips "I gi-". Adelram soon felt the darkness completely consuming him the sentence dying on his lips he felt his thoughts drifting as he said "I should give up."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/10/31 16:21:01


Post by: shinros


There is a lesson here everyone should embrace nurgle they would be much more happy.

And pictures got around to painting some my warband. Also apologies for picture quality, I also tend to base after everything is done. I may retake the pictures again down at my local store due to better lighting and all that.

Some Astartes(Sebastian should be done soon TM) Also pink is a pain to paint. Getting used to it though.

Spoiler:





Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/01 10:54:12


Post by: lliu


Nice. Well I mean nurgle is always the nice one. No pain, and a god that cares. Ain't that great?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/01 15:01:08


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice. Well I mean nurgle is always the nice one. No pain, and a god that cares. Ain't that great?


Indeed! If Ivan chose nurgle he would still be alive leading a nurgle warband and eventually hooking up with the deathguard. Slaanesh wants you to enjoy and revel in your excess but in the end the dark prince just finds all of it amusing in the end.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/02 03:55:23


Post by: shinros


Intermission chapter 1

Entry 10901

This entry is going to be rather long it's more the fact that my friend returned to the compound frustrated and covered in blood a great deal happened that day. At that time I was going over my weapon movements. He approached me drenched in blood he pointed at me accusingly as he said "I don't feel any better! I thought they fed on death and suffering!?" I stopped my practice and looked at him I asked who did he kill? He sighed as the frustration drained from his face and it returned to the dour look I known him for.

He was creasing his brow he told me that he killed the nurgle cultists around the city. He then asked did I feel anything when killing them. I gave it a thought, I then told him I felt nothing when I killed them it was like taking out the trash. I don't think really think about it you just do it. I did raise the point when I started killing there was a rush a sense of euphoria. The more I did it, the better I got at it. Soon after that I felt nothing. As I spoke I could see he was listening intently. I continued my explanation that I soon moved to gang warfare there was a certain rush about it. I needed to understand the lay of the city and the powers in it at the time so I fell in with one of the gangs.

I became one of their top hit men. I kept killing again and again eventually I moved to killing the famous crime lords in the city. Meliva was simply enjoying the show by that time we came to a strange agreement. She knew that we were stuck together whether by the dark prince's designs or not and through me she could also enjoy reality. She gave me strength I gave her the means to experience reality.

My friend frowned slightly he asked me to go back to me killing the crime lords. I did tell him afterwards it was such a long time ago that I don't remember the exact details but I told him what I could. I aimed to kill the crime lords and soon their hit men went after me. Fighting the hit men was quite exciting I told him. I hoped I was not smiling with glee when I was explaining but perhaps I did? I made mention that those memories I found fond two people doing all they can to kill one another. I learned much of skills that I use even now.

One I hanged, the second I broke several of their bones and the third? I killed with my journal pen. They hoped to ambush me in the bar. Meliva was quite excited and impressed when I killed the hit man with the pen. As I mentioned the pen I could see my friend was in disbelief he asked me did I seriously murder someone with a pen. I told him I did.

That was the first time I saw him in utter surprise it was odd seeing him making such a face. I continued my story I told him after I killed the hit men I moved to the crime lords. I killed their guards. I killed their family and finally I killed them. Infiltrating their mansions was almost akin to a military garrison.I told him it was amazing I detailed all the defences the hired guards made up of top gangsters, veteran guardsmen who went awol etc. I eventually reached the crime lords they prepared for me that did not help them. My friend then said to me "After you secured the rule for the gang what did you do?" I looked at him I told him that I moved to kill the people who hired me I began murdering the gang I joined. My friend raised his eyebrow but I told him that I did it only after they secured their rule and their position was sustained.

That surprised him even more. I told him I wanted to learn about the city hence why I joined but my chief mission and excess is to be more useful to our lord who is now missing. What better way to become a more effective tool is to pit myself against a gang who controlled everything? So I began my work crime plummeted. I told my friend that It was refreshing and exciting dismantling them many of my contacts did not understand what I was doing before I killed them.

Piece by piece. Life by life. My actions caused crime to plummet. I told my friend that the commoners and downtrodden called me an angel. They could walk the streets at night. People were no longer kidnapped. People were no longer caught in gang crossfires. The narcotics trade shot down dramtically. The arbites were in a state of confusion on why it was happening. My friend asked again what was the point of me telling him this part I just told him it was important and to listen.

When I reached the crime lord(my old boss) after killing his guards he was not angry but afraid. I handed him the head of his wife he did not even take it. I then killed him with my blade. Yet I felt nothing. I did not feel that same sensation of excitement and wonder like when I was dismantling their empire killing their hit men and my old contacts. I felt nothing. Still after I killed him oddly I grew black wings. I questioned Meliva she said she had nothing to do with it.

I ended my story telling him that after that I moved to Assassination murdering various nobles testing defences and the high ranking abrites of the city. I told him I even killed inquisitors sent to investigate this "angel" eventually earning a case file. I gleaned this information from an inquisitor I tortured. I learned a great deal of what was happening in the galaxy at that time. Eventually they also sent assassins along with the inquisitors investigating me. Fighting assassins was unbelievable I told him two people shaped into weapons attacking each other.

I ended on the note saying that I could torment the enemy cultists or slaves yet I know full well that it would be fleeting or I will feel nothing. I will also not gain or learn anything from killing a slave.

As I finished my explanation I could see in that moment that my friend gained a deep understanding or an idea.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/02 04:13:31


Post by: shinros


Chapter 4


Entry 10910

After a few days my friend returned. I was sitting in our usual place he sat down next to me. When I looked at his face I saw understanding instead of frustration. He started the converstion he said "I feel better now." I was happy for him but I wanted to know what caused it.
He told me that what I did in the past in his eyes is the proper worship of slaanesh. He continued explaining that to achieve our desire we want we need better soldiers. They are being allowed to gratify themselves on small and pitiful excess blunting them. That's why in the past the warband could not take bigger worlds or take on the true armies of the imperium in full force. That's why many warbands in the third are broken save the truly favoured.

I pointed out that if he started preaching such a thing we would end up with more dead men. He retorted that we would have better men. He said I am an example of that. I was slightly annoyed I made another point that I have the advantage of being possessed. Implementing this practice might ruin everything I have been working on for our lord.

My friend retorted again that why can't they move to the pinnacle of what is human then? Inquisitors and assassins have killed possessed or even Astartes. In me pursuing them I adapted I became more efficient. I was a blunted objected who shaped myself into a sharp blade. Through pursuing my excess I achieved my true "shape". When he said that I had nothing else to say.

My friend told me he vanished for a few days because he was hunting the traitors and the death guard Astartes. He almost died several times but he got better at fighting them. He grew he felt alive. He felt he could do more. That his goal was getting closer in sight.
When he said that it upset me. I could not lose him. Not after being alone for all those years hoping and waiting for when they would appear. He calmed me saying that it was necessary if we are to survive he has to be stronger.

He left stating he will start spreading what he learned to our soldiers. I was unsure at the time but now? His new "cult?" helped me in setting the ground work for my lord.


Adelram opened his eyes he looked up there was a large fountain ahead of him. It was quite a distance away to reach. The Death Guard Astartes known as Pus and Boil were holding him due to his legs being a ruined mess. Around him were chanting cultists. The chant died as Biberlus approached the fountain.

He held up his hands praying soon out of the fonts of the fountain black liquid pooled. The liquid bubbled and green vapour rose from the fountain. Biberlus turned to him and walked towards him and knelt down. Biberlus smiled showing his stained teeth "Child of despair are you ready?" Adelram shook his head he said "I d-don't know." Biberlus smiled "You should accept the fact that your father hates you." Adelram looked up confused "How? How did you know?"

Biberlus stroked his chin "The flies whisper much of your despair Adelram." Adelram's mouth felt dry there was a pit in both hearts. He knew it to be true, Adelram said "Yes he does. Yet why has he not looked at me? I have done so much yet...." Biberlus nodded in understanding "Some parents are just bad fathers. Even some gods mishandle their children. Slaanesh is a common offender" Adelram narrowed his eyes "What did I do wrong?" Biberlus shook his head "You did nothing wrong. Our Primarch Mortarion knows of having a bad father hence he treats us as his sons he reprimands us when we do something wrong yet he cares for as at the same time even if some hate him like Typhus."

Biberlus smiled again his lips flaking "Have you ever had a primarch's eyes on you? A primarch speaking to you?" Adelram looked at Biberlus "No I haven't." Biberlus stood up and gestured to the fountain "That can change oh child of despair. Be baptised in the blessed waters of nurgle. Accept your despair and admit your father hates you. Accept that your father has abused you. Accept a new father that would accept and see you. Find a god that will truly treat you as their child."

Biberlus nodded to Pus and Boil. They dropped Adelram, he thudded on the ground. Biberlus gestured to the pool "Crawl Child of despair. Go accept it!" Adelram began crawling to the fountain he smiled under his helmet he began thinking that things would be easier if he just gave up. He was never interested in him. No matter how hard he tried or how well he did he never said anything.

It felt right. He crawled slowly to the fountain. Accepting that he had no interest in him made him happy. The despair weighed on his heart but it should weigh on you. Since it's the truth. The torments he put himself through for the father who hated him. Soon he will have a father that would talk to him. He would have a god that would comfort him in his despair.

Adelram felt a large grin lining his features. He was slowly reaching the edge of the fountain Biberlus called out "Come on! Show everyone! Show your father what it means to abuse their child!" Adelram nodded he can do this. He must.

He kept crawling. He then heard a sound a gun shot. He shifted to the right and saw a cultist with a bullet hole on their forehead they collapsed. Several more shots went off and more cultists dropped to the floor. Pus and Boil readied their weapons. Pus drew a plague sword and bolt pistol. Boil drew a bolter.

Biberlus was shaking in anger he shouted "Cowards! Weaklings! You attack the grandfather's children from the shadows!" As Biberlus said this from a nearby building an Astartes jumped down he pointed his axe at Biberlus he shouted "I am no coward!" The voice was familiar to Adelram his mind drifted back to the baptism. He looked to the pool he continued crawling slowly to it.

Adelram heard the shouts of cultists and the hewing of meat. Adelram soon caught the sound of a jetpack as it crashed down into the cultists another familiar voice "Jedrick that's another ambush you are ruining." Adelram stopped he thought of the name Jedrick so familiar yet.. This was more important. He can't let himself get distracted. he continued crawling soon Adelram heard Jedrick responding "Silas he called me a coward. I could not take that. Think of it this way with an ambush they have no idea who killed them most of the time. Fighting them directly? They know exactly who killed them so as they die they know who is superior."

Adelram stopped again hearing the name Silas hearing both of their voices was distracting. He needed a new father and a god that cared he can't let them stop him. He caught the sound of Silas responding to his argument with the sound of more dying cultists "That actually makes some sense."

Adelram was almost to the pool he could hear Biberlus shouting "That's it Adelram! You are almost there!" Adelram grinned again he was almost there soon the pain will go away. He will accept it. Another voice pierced Adelram's mind they uttered a single word their voice was firm and it cut through the noise of dying cultists "No." He charged through the line of cultists straight to the death guard.

Adelram finally stopped he turned slightly he saw an Astartes wearing a black cape. His face was slightly obscured by a black hood. His armour was black and pink. A large spiked censer hanged from his waist his weapon was a spiked censer bellowing a purple mist. The censer was on a long two handed shaft. The hooded Astartes approached Pus at blinding speed he readied his weapon, Pus swung his weapon sideways. The hooded Astartes ducked swiftly he was still moving in with a swift motion he twisted.

Adelram watched as the spiked censer moved his eyes could barely keep up it howled like one of the neverborn and soon afterwards there was a song as it moved through the air and when it made contact with Pus the right side of his power armour caved in due to the impact. Adelram could see as the weapon moved the hooded Astartes speed increased. As the weapon hit Pus there was also a small musical note playing or a chime. The hooded Astartes quickly rose and twisted the censer it roared and sang again as it moved bringing the weapon to the head of Pus cracking his antlers and smashing his face in. Another song note played.

Boil readied his bolter he fired three times. To Adelram's shock the hooded Astartes like lightning dodged all three shots. The hooded Astartes charged Boil to Adelram his speed was Abnormal. Boil kept firing and the hooded Astartes moved right to left he then swung his weapon again it roared and soon it began singing. The song was reaching a crescendo as the weapon cracked into the Arm of Boil another note playing as Boil's arm was reduced to nothing.

Again the hooded Astartes twisted the censer bringing it down on Boil's head a music note playing as his head was caved in. Boil crumpled to the ground. Biberlus raged "You dare!" He turned his head slightly to Adelram "Keep going!" He flicked his head to the hooded Astartes "You will be bought low by the power of the grandfather!" The hooded Astartes slammed the haft of his weapon on the ground the musical notes that played when he killed both Death guard marines came together in a small chime or song. The Hooded Astartes scowled "You will die here maggot."

Adelram kept crawling he was nearing the edge of the pond. He stopped again as he saw a black feather floating down. He grabbed it and twisted it in his hands it was almost ethereal in how it looked another fell. He looked behind him to see Biberlus summoning his Sorcery. Like a comet a figure came down and planted their blade through Biberlus' neck.

Biberlus was then consumed by purple fire his spell dying on his lips. The being removed his blade as Biberlus fell to the ground charred. He could tell it was a man wearing almost form fitting armour he wore almost a poncho style cloak around his shoulders along with a hood. The cloak was split down the middle and was in two halves the ends were slightly torn. One thing that struck out the most to him was there was a book chained to his waist.

When Adelram looked at the cloak more closely there was a strange energy about the cloak and it moved like it was alive when the man turned he saw a skull.

He watched Jedrick walk forward pointing at Biberlus charred corpse "See Silas? He has no idea who killed him." Silas walked next to Jedrick and he poked Biberlus with his sword "I see your point." Adelram could not let them break his concentration he looked to the fountain and began crawling rapidly.

Jedrick yelled "Stop him!" Adelram reached fountain he was pulling himself up to go over he then felt someone grabbing his armour and pulling him back throwing him to the ground. It was the hooded Astartes.

The Astartes pulled off his hood revealing a face he recognised. It was Marthas. Adelram was breathing rapidly he got back on his body again and began crawling to the fountain again. Silas and Jedrick held him down. Adelram screamed "Let me go! I have to! Please!"

The man wearing the skull helmet walked to Marthas. Adelram looked up he made several hand gestures to him. Marthas rested his weapon on his shoulder "You can get it off?" the man nodded. He drew a knife Adelram could see the runes upon it and the blade burning hot with purple fire. The man worked the blade around the neck of his armour.

The helmet popped off. Adelram breathed in the air he felt something slamming into his mind his powers were returning. Adelram breathed in using telekinesis he pushed Silas and Jedrick back they crashed to the ground. Adelram continued crawling as he said "I am so close.." Adelram watched the skull faced man was now standing in front of him. Adelram shouted "Move! I said Move!" He sent more power forward the skull face man raised his hand his attack died soon as it reached him. He then made a pushing motion Adelram felt himself flying to the wall and held his legs dangling.

Marthas nodded to the man wearing the skull helmet. Well done. I wondered what happened for him to get like this?" Adelram watched the man make hand gestures with his other hand, Marthas shook his head in disbelief "So he lost his mark?" The man nodded. Marthas sighed at that response.

Marthas and the man slowly walked to him. Silas and Jedrick got up scratching their heads and approached. As Jedrick looked at him he could sense his anger he then punched his hand into his open palm and cursed "Sebastian will pay for this. I swear." Silas shrugged "I worry what the plague sorcerer did to his mind." Marthas looked him up and down as he was held unto the wall he scratched his chin with his hand he looked at the man "Can you put him to sleep?" He nodded with a wave of his free hand Adelram soon found that he was tired. He wanted to sleep.

He closed his eyes slowly as the fountain and his old commrades vanished from his view.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/02 04:34:03


Post by: shinros


Chapter 5

Entry 10915

As my friend began implementing his teachings many of our own died. He had them fight each other to the death. He sent them on deadly missions I should be angry or upset but I wasn't. I saw the results the ones that survived were largely the ones I deemed competent. After he was done many had a repertoire of skills useful in guerrilla warfare. The imperials have not discovered us yet. The death guard calls us Shadows and the traitors think we don't exist.

The traitors deem their losses to be committed by the death guard, perhaps it's arrogance?. This serves us yet I am writing today not to talk about my friend but another has appeared Lord Jedrick. He was greatly confused and wondered where our lord was I was glad we reached him first since Sebastian would of most likely killed him. I told him how Sebastian has gathered majority of the warband and rules it. He did not believe me he would not think they would be that foolish.

I told him they were that foolish. There is a kill order for him and my friend. (Small note My friend was there to help me talk to him.) Jedrick then questioned how I survived. I pointed out that many of the people on the ship survived carried to this planet like I was but the ship is gone. When we reached the compound Jedrick then asked another question "So who is in charge of the compound?" Me and my friend pointed at each other to Jedrick's annoyance.


Adelram slowly woke up he was on a vehicle of some sort. He looked around to see he was resting on a pillow on the back of a large Goliath truck it seemed modified it was much more spacious than the normal variant. Adelram looked to his legs they were wrapped in a strange black cloth that twitched and moved. He felt something piercing his skin the cloth moving and restoring his bone. He looked beside him he saw the man wearing the skull helmet was looking over him his cloak unnaturally moving as it was wrapped around his legs.

He looked forward to see Marthas, Jedrick and Silas sitting in the back of truck. Adelram frowned "Why did you stop me?" Jedrick scowled "Is that the first thing you say after we saved you?" Adelram felt tired he blinked "Yes. Why did you stop me?" Silas sighed "They must of tormented him greatly for him to be like this." Adelram looked to his legs then back to the man he said out loud "Who is this? How is he fixing my legs?" He turned his head back to Silas, Jedrick and Marthas.

Marthas spoke his voice flat "It's Asriel of course. His cloak is... alive in a sense and can act as a conduit or acts similar to a psyker Familiar. From my understanding he is using biomancy to fix your legs." Adelram's eyes went wide he looked at him and frowned "He should be dead or in a cage." Jedrick pointed at Adelram "We would not have found you if he was not here. If he was not here we would most likely have walked into Sebastian's camp thinking everything was fine."

Adelram kept up his frown "He failed me." Marthas shook his head "No he did not. You just assum-" Adelram watched Asriel make rapid hand signs. Marthas sighed "Fine." Adelram eyed Marthas "What did he say?" Marthas turned away slightly "He asked me not to say any more." Adelram furrowed his brows "He is still a servant a failed one. You don't need to show him that much respect " Marthas casually looked at him "I can't disrespect a friend Adelram."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "A friend?" He laughed "Really!? What happened? Tell me." Marthas frowned "No." Adelram turned to Asriel "I wonder what you did for him to respect you so much." Adelram watched him make a sign he turned to Marthas who said "Asriel said he is sorry." Adelram scoffed "For what?"

Asriel made more hand signs, Marthas nodded "He said that he wished he found you sooner so you would not have ended up like this." Adelram could see he made a similar hand gesture saying he is sorry again. Adelram chuckled "What could you have done? At the end of the day even if you are possessed you are still a human."

Silas laughed slightly when he finished his sentance. Adelram looked at him "What is so funny?" Silas shrugged "Asriel can handle himself." Silas looked at Jedrick "What was it now? 5-4?" Jedrick scowled "It's 5-5." Marthas shook his head "I am quite sure it's 5-4."

Adelram was confused "What are you counting." Silas laughed again "First blood duels of course." Adelram confusion increased "I assume Jedrick was holding back?" As he said this Jedrick looked away. Adelram looked at Asriel again he could not tell what expression he was making due to the skull helmet he looked to Marthas "Is this true?"

Marthas nodded "It is. Jedrick could not believe Asriel was partly in charge of the compound so he challenged Asriel to a duel who won the first round." Silas interjected while snickering "In 10 seconds." Jedrick glowered "I underestimated him that time! He was pretty much a soft human in the past. With the neverborn in him in the past all he could do was let Meliva do all the work!" Jedrick folded his arms "Asriel when we get back I want another duel."

Adelram watched Asriel sigh. Adelram looked to Jedrick "So how many Astartes do we have? Sebastian told me it's only you three" Jedrick was silent for a moment "It's just us three." Adelram felt the despair crawling back in again he frowned he then felt a small hand on his chestplate. It was Asriel such a simple gesture for some reason calmed him down.

They sat in silence for a few more minutes until Silas started a conversation "So Asriel. The story with the pen. Is it true?" Adelram perked up slightly "Story with a pen?" Jedrick laughed and Marthas sighed. Marths looked at him "Asriel killed someone with a pen." Adelram's mouth hanged slightly "How?"

Adelram looked up to Asriel he was curious. Asriel then made several hand gestures, Marthas then said "He was in a bar one time getting a drink the bar had a rule between crime lords that no weapons could be bought in the rule was respected even when they fought. A hit man came in he sat next to him and pulled a pistol. He quickly grabbed his wrist and twisted causing him to drop his weapon. He pulled out his pen and stabbed him several times in the neck and one time in the eye. He then he slammed him on the bar table and stabbed the pen into his ear finally killing him."

Adelram was impressed yet he was conflicted, he failed him. How can he trust him? He watched Asriel make a hand gesture, Marthas creased his brow "After that the bar agreed to ban pens and pencils." Silas laughed while slapping his leg and Jedrick whistled. Marthas leaned back "I am surprised you did not mention the story on how you lost your wings."

Silas looked to Marthas and Asriel he said "He had wings? I thought the cloak was how he flew?" Asriel made a few hand gestures, Marthas nodded "An ordo heretics inquisitor who was a psyker burned them. He managed to kill her but his wings were now useless he chopped them off and used it to create the cloak. He also used her blood in the weaving mixed with his own."

Adelram looked at Marthas "He managed to create a sort of famliar? Even I-" Adelram fell silent. Asriel made a hand sign. Marthas said "Asriel said he could show you how." Adelram nodded yet he asked a question "Why is Asriel using Sign language?" Marthas stared at him "Well to communicate. I had to learn it when Asriel found me. It made things easier for both of us." Adelram frowned "You did not answer my question Marthas." Marthas leaned on his hand "Well you told him not to speak. He has not uttered a word since he arrived on this planet."

Adelram thought back to that time he told him to be silent. He followed that directive ever since he asked Marthas another question "How long has he been on the planet?" Marthas held his chin "Sebastian and I appeared roughly at the same time. That was about 50 years ago."

Adelram almost got up slightly shocked at the time he looked at Asriel he said "Remove your helmet." Asriel nodded he removed his helmet and pulled back his hood. Adelram could see he has not aged a single day. His dark skin had no wrinkles save his blue eyes were now slits. He asked Asriel another question "How long have you been on this planet?" He watched Asriel begin making a hand gesture. Adelram held his hands "With your own voice Asriel."

He could see him biting his lip he spoke his voice was like a distortion mixed with the neverborn Meliva "One hundred years my lord." Adelram could see everyone in the truck were surprised even Marthas.

Marthas shrugged "Makes sense. When it comes to chaos age holds little signficance depending on one's standing." Adelram watched Asriel placing his helmet back on he said "Indeed it does. Most likely Meliva's keeping me "fresh.""

Adelram squinted his eyes "Your voice..." Asriel cocked his head slightly "I see." He coughed slighty as he said "Is this better my lord?" Adelram raised his eyebrow "You can do that?" Asriel nodded "Yes. Doing this takes barely any effort it's like holding a pen." Silas laughed as he mentioned pen.

Asriel touched his chestplate again he said something which surprised him "I will kill the one who did this to you my lord. This I swear." Silas chuckled "Are you going to break his legs?" Asriel shook his head in disagreement "Worse. Far worse."

Marthas folded his arms as he said "Have you given Adelram the trinket?" Adelram watched Asriel pull out a small bracelet. He hooked it around his wrist Adelram looked at it "What is this?" Asriel pointed to it "There is a ritual protecting the compound if someone does not have the charm we will drive in circles never finding it."

Adelram asked another question "Who did this ritual?" Marthas pointed at Asriel. Another suprise Adelram said to himself.
After a second Marthas posture suddenly changed he spoke his voice flat "Adelram. We have to address your loss of favour." Adelram turned his head "I do not wish to speak of it." Marthas pushed further "It has to be addressed." Jedrick glowered "Are you going to make him read that book?" Silas sighed "You dislike it because part of you actually agrees. You should read it again it's pretty interesting you know." Jedrick scoffed and turned away slightly.

Marthas shook his head "No. We need to do more than that. If Adelram faces sebastian as he is now he would die." Adelram grew frustrated the same despair clinging his heart as he said "Who said I will face him?" Jedrick was shocked "What? Seriously?" Marthas sighed "I feared this would happen." Silas leaned back "Marthas it seems you got your work cut out for you." Asriel was silent.

Eventually they entered a tunnel as they exited they came to a large Apartment complex. Marthas gestured with his head "Well here we are."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/02 04:38:12


Post by: shinros


Yeah so got a few chapters up to sum up what happened to Marthas and Asriel. I had fun writing those chapters.

Asriel is this guy.

Spoiler:


+

This guy. (Watch the movie if you haven't it's great)
Spoiler:



Marthas?

This guy MINUS being a nazi.(Also watch this show if you haven't it's great I am not even that much of an anime fan.)
Spoiler:


+

With this. Since you know his core is still there.
Spoiler:



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/02 14:09:22


Post by: lliu


I like the story right now. Good job! I like seeing the gang back together again lol.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/02 22:06:09


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
I like the story right now. Good job! I like seeing the gang back together again lol.


Glad you are enjoying it!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/02 23:54:43


Post by: shinros


Chapter 6

entry 10960

My friend has spent much time teaching our soldiers. The decline rate on our slaves have dropped dramatically. Jedrick was unsure because he wondered if he is turning them into religious fanatics similar to what Ivan did in the past. All of us were together at the time and Jedrick raised that point to him. My friend pointed out that we are all fanatics in our own way being a fanatic in a specific area is what slaanesh is about. In war, art or even obsession.

He did point out war and suffering is the highest expression of it though. My friend told us to look at the people who's desires are base. Those who like spending time with women or eating all day do they ever gain the mark? Do they ever mutate or are shaped? At most it's minor if it ever happens.

He pointed out that when the third kills or mains humans to feel again they either feel nothing or a small blip on their nervous system. As he said this I could see there was understanding lining Jedrick's features. I was worried that even Jedrick was going to get sucked up into his teachings. My worries soon vanished as he read his book and called it garbage of course he might just be saying that because he may have found some things that he was wrong about and does not want to admit it.

Soon after that a scout returned to the compound saying that there is a Astartes with a jet pack hunting nurgle cultists. We all knew who it was. We went to the area pointed out by the scout we looked up to see Silas standing on the edge of a small building. He looked at us and sighed. He said that Sebastian's people have already come to offer a place to him. He rejected them they told him it remains open and of course in a similar fashion we told him everything that occured he simply shrugged and gave a long yawn.

At that moment I knew I could not let him leave since there is a possibility that he would join Sebastian eventually. We watched him activate his jump pack he leaped high into the air. I picked up a stone an old memory returning I gripped it tightly. I felt the veins in my arm pulsing as I gripped the rock tighter.

I threw the rock with all my might like a meteor it went straight into the vents of his jet pack. We all heard the rattling. Silas tried to steady himself in the air. I picked up a bottle next and threw it upwards like a javelin hitting the same spot again. Smoke poured out of the right exhaust of the jet pack he tumbled to the ground like a comet.

Silas crashed to the ground with a loud thud. My friend was cross with me since I potentially may of killed him since he landed on his head somewhat even if he is wearing a helmet. Jedrick complemented my throwing arm. We walked over, Jedrick decided to poke him with his axe, Silas did not move. Jedrick shrugged and grabbed both of his legs(He dragged him back to the base) and we bought him to the compound.


As the Goliath truck stopped Adelram looked to his legs he could actually feel them. The power armour around his legs was cracked in various sections. He moved his leg slightly the armour creaked but the sharp pain has also vanished he wondered how much his failed servant has learned in the last hundred years.

Another unsettling thought was crossing his mind that possibly he might know more than him oddly enough it angered him. He rose, Asriel held his hands up, Adelram waved him away "I think my legs are fine now." Marthas turned to Jedrick "Help him out of the truck he might not be fully healed yet." Adelram through clenched teeth said "I am fine. I don't need help." He started to move the black tendrils of Asriel's cloak removed themselves from his legs.

A slight pain returned to his legs. Adelram grabbed the wall of the cargo bed, he lifted himself up and hopped over he landed on his legs. The sharp pain was still there it's likely Asriel was reducing or limiting the pain receptors in his legs. He could walk but slowly.

Silas looked over "You are not going to confront Sebastian?" Adelram stopped "No I am not. Why do you keep asking?" Silas hopped over he shrugged "Well considering how Long Marthas and especially Asriel was waiting for you they might be quite disappointed with you right now." Adelram turned to silas "I should care why? A black templar who has barely been with us and a failed servant. Why should I care what they think?"

Jedrick hopped off the truck, Jedrick folded his arms "Silas, he still reeks of the plague god. I can smell it." Adelram felt his anger building up "Perhaps if we all did follow him this might of not happened." Jedrick stepped towards him his voice to him seemed like he was holding back his anger "Are you really saying that? After all we have been through?" Adelram leaned forward "I am."

Adelram could see Jedrick moving his hand to his axe. Adelram focused his arms glowed with power "I dare you Jedrick." Adelram then heard several feet hitting the ground. Marthas walked towards him "Jedrick calm yourself. Asriel and I prepared for such an event."

Adelram leaned back and stared at Marthas "What do you mean prepared?" Marthas nodded "Well it was more of Asriel who introduced the possibility of this happening. In the likely event the death guard or Sebastian got to you first." As Asriel hopped out of the truck, Adelram looked at him his cloak unnaturally moving in the air "What could both of you even do?"

Marthas tapped the haft his weapon on the floor "Well right now Asriel is better at sorcery than you are. He spent most of his time doing trial and error to give you the means to learn quickly." Adelram shook his head "I am not going to learn anything from a failed servant Marthas. Nor from someone who is of lower station." Adelram pushed past Jedrick and walked to the apartment complex.

Marthas called out "Your greatest strength is your pride and your failing." Adelram ignored him as he approached he could see snipers getting out of the various trucks. They wore hooded jackets and cloaks. Adelram reached the courtyard of the complex as he stepped in everyone looked at him they froze.

Adelram looked to the humans staring at him some faces he recognized others he did not. Adelram walked through the courtyard to the apartment complex. Oddly when he looked around there were patches of flowers he wondered how one would cultivate them in such a war torn climate.
As he reached the doors of the apartment complex to his right he saw a woman sitting in a chair relaxing being fanned by two chained slaves. She wore a dirty red dress and black shades. The Slaves looked to be wearing torn imperial uniforms after a second the woman raised her glasses she smiled "My lord! It's been such a long time!" She sat up and waved the slaves away.

She walked over to him each step clearly practised "It seems Asriel was right. How have you been? You look terrible!" Adelram sighed in annoyance "Elizabeth." She curtsied when he mentioned her name she rose and smiled again "So when are you going to kill Sebastian? I am quite eager to leave this rock." Adelram narrowed his eyes at her "I am not going to kill him also if I did we don't have a ship to leave this planet with."

Elizabeth frowned "I see." Adelram continued walking "Now leave me be." Adelram walked into the complex the building housed various small flats from what he can tell on the ground floor people were walking by going on their business until he entered. One human approached him wearing the robes of his house he got on his knees several others followed suit the acolyte raised his hands "Our lord has returned! Praise the dark prince!" the bowed humans followed his words.

Adelram frowned again as he walked past them to their shock the acolyte turned "My lord?" Adelram continued walking he wanted to find an empty flat where he could be alone. He walked up to the second floor there was an opened door in the corridor. Adelram looked inside. It was empty, Adelram lowered himself slightly to enter he closed the door behind him. As he walked into the corner of the room each step he took each sting in his legs reminded him of the events of what Sebastian and Gethus did to him and his legs. What happened at the fountain was still imprinted on his mind.

He sat in the corner and looked down thinking. Everything is lost. His one chance to have something better gone because he was "saved." He laughed by himself he still wondered what he was thinking in all these years he deigned not a word or look. That would never change. So why should he seek the approval of one who ignored him at every turn? Adelram chuckled again "Damian was right after all."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/03 00:35:02


Post by: shinros


Chapter 7

Entry 10963

We had our tech priest look at Silas's damaged jump pack. I acquired him in the past due to him owing me a favour and the fact he felt that his research was limited with the imperials. He was quite surprised that there was a 4th element in this war. When Silas awoke before we could explain anything he moved to attack me for a slave to daring to do such a thing. So I decided to play along. My friend tried to stop us but I told him not to.

So he chased me around the the general area of the complex. He could not catch me after 12 hours of trying. I have been chased by far more dangerous predators.

I mean assassins one specifically. The most exciting and terrifying encounter was with an assassin with a skull helmet and various machinery lining it. He could phase through walls (At least I thought he did. At times he would appear out of nowhere), when I first encountered him it felt like my mind was going to explode I was being drained of energy just being in his presence. Meliva told me they are called Culexus Assassins. In the end I could not kill him directly I led him to a trap that almost cost me my life. That memory I found fond. I keep his skull(His actual skull not the helmet) in my closet when I want to reminisce.

Well going back on topic Silas eventually gave up. After that he now listened to what me and my friend had to say. In the end it drew his interest and he joined us due to the fact it would be more "interesting." I told him that a tech priest is repairing his jet pack on the 4th floor. He nodded and left us.

My friend was about to leave until I told him to wait. Writing this I pray this is not the case but we have to plan around this. I told him what we should do if Sebastian or the nurglites find him. What they would do to him. Both would try to break him. I recommend we have our best scouts placed near the nurgle followers and Sebastian's area's of control in the city.

He agreed with my idea to place scouts. He also raised the issue that the neverborn are whispering of Sebastian's rise in power. I was surprised that he now talked to the neverborn I did tell him to be careful. He noted my concern he does not trust them entirely. He raised the point that sebastian is gaining more favour and power. Far more than our lord. It's likely if he is broken we have to force him to grow. My friends words were thus "We will have to sharpen his mind and body so he can take back which is rightfully his. We will have to truly teach him when someone confronts him to destroy them utterly. When someone seeks to defy him he should show his wrath."

I agreed that may have to be done I did ask him has he found joy in war? He nodded he said these words "It's only through war where one might grow and become better. The adrenaline when you brush close with death and when you defeat an equal or superior opponent. The sweat on your brow as you charge into battle and the feeling of a hopeless situation, your mind sharpens you either sink or swim. Adapt or die."

As he said this it made me remember certain events in the past I felt those exact things. Still My friend does not truly know how the galaxy is changing still he suspects that the galaxy is not as it was. My lord has to be far more powerful if we are to survive in this galaxy. Even if he defeats Sebastian with the power he has now and we leave it's highly likely we will die. Thinking on this I decided to go check on that place again. I have to be prepared.


Asriel was in his room preparing his crossbow. He now has found his lord even if he is broken. He cursed the plague god and his followers if they found him sooner he might of not ended up like this. They will have to push hard to break him out of the clutches of the god of pestilence.
Even if they saved him from the fountain his "smell" is still about him. Asriel closed his eyes afterwards. He had someone to save first. Asriel loaded several bolts into the crossbow.

Asriel got up and left his room, he was on the fourth floor he could hear Tech priest Caius tinkering away at his request. It does not matter if his request is completed if his lord is in such a state. He heard from several people that his lord took an empty room on the second floor. Asriel felt Meliva coiling "So what are you going to do to the one that broke his legs?" Asriel scowled "I will think about it on the way there." He could tell Meliva was getting excited again. Perhaps due to the fact he has quite an "active imagination" when it comes to killing people.

Asriel knew it was clear that his lord won't see him. He had a feeling that at most on the truck he was tolerating his presence still. As Asriel was walking down the stairs he passed by a woman. It was Lily she was still wearing the captain's jacket he found her a few years ago. She was another necessary element.

She stopped in his way "Where are you going?" Asriel looked away "To get someone now that our lord is here." Lily did not move she shook her head "Everyone is talking. Our lord is depressed. He won't fight. He needs you here." Asriel finally looked at her "He consider's me a failed servant still." Lily stepped forward "After all you have done? Done for everyone?" Asriel nodded "Yes."

Asriel continued walking he stopped and turned his head slightly back "Do not worry. Marthas will deal with it. Trust me." Lilly nodded. Asriel continued as he made his way out of the apartment block he reached the exit of the courtyard. Marthas stood at the exit he was looking at a map his weapon Eligos rested on the side wall. Asriel stopped he wondered if he was here to see him off? At times he knows whenever he is leaving even if he does not tell him "I am going to pick someone up. I trust you can fix our lord?" Marthas looked up and nodded "I am confident that I can I shall try to talk to him while you are away."

Marthas picked up Eligos and began walking away, Asriel turned "You are not going to ask where I am going?" Marthas stopped "Are you letting w our lord's words get to you? I know that you can handle himself. Kill many Asriel." Asriel nodded "I shall."

Asriel expanded his cloak, feathers spawned from his cloak covering it until it looked like wings. He flapped and launched himself in the air.

Gethus was exploring a building with members of his squad if you could call it such. They were only together since they admired him and the changes wrought on his flesh. The squad was 6 Astartes in total. Sebastian has them search the various buildings for slaves. There are many humans that are hiding within them to get away from the conflict.

Still this building was empty. Gethus spat on the ground "We will make another sweep. Sebastian would not like us returning empty handed." His squad all nodded.

They exited the building they were exploring and entered another one next to it. As they entered there was a strange darkness about it. Like someone was watching them. One of his squad members spoke up "this place might be cursed by the followers of the plague god. We should move to another building." Gethus hissed "It's not. Considering it does not stink of decay and rot. Stop being a coward." Gethus could see he was about to protest again but he fell silent.

They entered a corridor at the edge of his ear he could hear a sound. Soon a unnatural growl it sounded like one of the neverborn. In a split second a squad member fell to the floor and was dragged into the darkness screaming. They all raised their guns to the darkness. They advanced slowly to a large room they found their missing squad member dead lying in a pool of blood.

Gethus walked over to examine his body. His throat was slit open the cut is deep, each rent where there was a gap in his armour blood was pooling. Another Astartes spoke up "This place might be cursed by daemons." Gethus scowled "Enough! We advance and check each of the buildings."

They explored the whole building and found nothing. Now he has to explain how an Astartes has mysteriously died to Sebastian. He had to find slaves if he could perhaps Sebastian would forgive this blunder.

They advanced to the next building. Gethus shook his head the same feeling was here in this building as well. Someone or something was watching them. He gestured his squad to advance. As they were advancing through another corridor he heard something it was like a whistle suddenly three Astartes collapsed.

There were two of them left. Gethus walked over all three had bolts stuck in their helmets. The remaining Astartes knelt down and removed the helmet. Gethus watched as a river of blood pooled out of the helmet there was no head there. As the Astartes pulled out the bolt there was a long wire thin wire attached to it. He rose holding the bolt "I have only seen inquisitors and assassins use weapons like these. We should leave."
Gethus looked down to the corpses "Agreed. Who ever is chasing us most likely knows the layout of the building."

His remaining squad member nodded. Gethus heard another whistle sound passing his ear as another bolt crashed into his remaining squad member's head. He was not wearing a helmet he watched as his head exploded blowing away a chunk of meat from his face and small wires slashing the remaining meat of his head turning it to nothing save a river of blood.

He collapsed. Gethus turned and shouted "Coward! Come and face me!" Gethus shot rapidly with his bolt pistol down the corridor into the darkness. He ran to the exit of the building, he entered a large hall.

He turned back his bolt pistol gripped in his hand looking and the twin doors he came through he looked forward and approached the exit he then heard a door opening and closing behind him. Gethus smiled and turned "So the coward is showing their face?"

He saw a man wearing black armour and a skull helmet. He wore a strange ponho style cloak that seemed to move and melt into the darkness. There were also black feathers trailing about it. Gethus smiled "I will kill you for this. No I will torment you, you will beg for death but I will deny you." His assilant did not utter a word. Gethus shrugged "Can't speak? I shall call you skull face. You are wearing that disgusting helmet."
Gethus drew his chainsword "I can't wait to hear you scream worm." Gethus charged as he reached his adversary he did a downwards slash with his chainsword. This will be a perfect strike the hewing of meat. He smiled his joy turned to shock when his strike missed his chainsword sparking as his slashed the door.

He could see skull face dodged to the side "How did you dodge that? What are you?" He watched skull face twist downwards swiftly he soon felt a sharp pain at the back of his leg. He stabbed a knife in the back of his knee.

Gethus turned to skull face to strike again yet he was gone. At the corner of his eye he moved to his other leg and soon there was another sharp pain is his other leg. Gethus grit his teeth "Hold still!" Gethus turned to skull face he reached down to pull out the knife.
As he was about to do so his legs were consumed in a purple light. He felt intense pain for a moment and soon afterwards he felt himself tumbling. As he crashed to the ground he could see his legs. He looked to himself his legs were gone.

Gethus grit his teeth. He did not like the agony he was feeling. This was different compared to the sensations in the camp. Skull face walked over to him. Gethus raised his bolt pistol yet he could not move his arm it was wrapped up by his cloak. Gethus looked into the eyes of skull face "How did you do this! What are you!"

Skull face uttered a few words his voice was not human "An angel." The other end of his cloak moved to wrap around his other arm. The cloak contuined to move up both his arms finally covering his body. Gethus could not move he could hear his armour straining as he tried to move.
Gethus wondered what his cloak was made out of it acted like it was alive. Gethus grit his teeth "Release me. I can see power about you my lord interested in such power." Skull face cocked his head slightly he walked towards him and crawled on top his body he looked directly at him the blue eye lenses of his helmet shimmering.

Skull face said "I wonder did you enjoy breaking my lord's legs?" When he said that it finally dawned on him "You mean Adelram?" Skull face nodded. Gethus licked his lips "It was necessary I was ordered to." Gethus watched skull face growl unnaturally "Yet you stand with the traitor." Gethus smiled "He is favoured by the dark prince. Of course I follow him. Our old lord was ineffective even when he embraced slaanesh he still limited us."

Gethus sighed he spoke trying to ignore the pain of his missing limbs "As I said you hold power. Such power should be used by the favoured." Skull face fell silent he spoke after a few seconds "Did you enjoy breaking my lord's legs?" Gethus smiled "Yes I did enjoy breaking his legs. Watching him thrash on the ground screaming like a child was wonderful." Skull face nodded "I see."

Gethus watched the skull distort and twist the teeth sharpening into fangs. The eye lenses changing blinking like an actual face. The maw of the helmet opened he heard clicking as the jaws unhinged growing wider. Purple saliva dripping on his face.

Gethus felt his breathing increase and as soon as he blinked skull face returned to normal. Skull face sat upwards thinking as he said out loud "No, that would be too easy." He watched him hop off his body he looked at him as he said "I will enjoy this."

Gethus watched as the cloak started to move again a strand crawling up his body like a snake. It shot down his mouth he began struggling again. He could feel it moving inside him wrapping itself around each of his organs. He could see skull face nodding.

A second later he felt one of his hearts being squeezed until it was crushed. Gethus gagged blood leaving his lips, Skull face nodded "I recall you have two just in case one fails." Gethus soon felt his liver being constricted and he felt a sharp pain as the organ was destroyed.

Gethus thrashed slightly slightly the cloak constricting his movements he is going to die. Skull face is just planning to kill him slowly. He felt pain in his lower body. He knew another organ was being destroyed he looked at skull face as he said "I am destroying your intestine, both of them. That is what you are feeling right now." Gethus tasted his saliva now mixing with vomit that's coming up from his mouth.

He could also taste blood. He screamed but it came out a gargle. Skull face nodded again "I am going to destroy both lungs." Gethus's eyes went wide he thrashed with all his might in order to free himself. What manner of creature is he? What is he? What did he do to earn the ire of such a creature!? Gethus thought to himself.

Gethus felt both his lungs being crushed a drowning sensation filled his chest. Gethus felt his last heart being squeezed. Black spots were filling his vision. He can't die like this. In a dark building, in a forsaken rock surrounded by nothing. His death should of been glorious. His vision was draining away as he felt his last heart exploding in his chest.

Asriel looked at the dead Astartes. He was lucky that a scout spotted him during the act. They would not have found his lord otherwise. When the scout told him of what he did he wanted an accurate description of him. This was a simple detour. Now to the main reason why he is here.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/03 02:22:26


Post by: lliu


Wonderful! Satisfying to behold.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/05 03:51:50


Post by: shinros


Chapter 8

entry 10968

Now that Silas was here just having three Astartes helped greatly in ambushes. Still our lord has not appeared everyone is appearing at various points of time. I also suspect the followers of the plague god are searching for that place hence why they have been on this planet for so long. Meliva told me of it when we arrived. When I first went to that place it shocked me. The first thing I did was take various measures to protect it. I have added to the defenses over the years.

I won't mention location or what it is due to possible information leaks. Still Sebastian's antic's have diverted the death's guard attention and the imperial forces hammering both leaves them distracted. So I suspect none will stumble onto it. I have taken time to scout the camps of the traitors and the death guard.(I have to apply proper wards to myself due to the unnatural diseases since I cannot rely on Meliva entirely.)I have also visited the inner city where the imperial's are based. It took some work but I have eyes there as well.
He just has to appear and all can begin.


Isira sat in the tent chained to Sebastian's throne the sounds of torment and torture all around her. Two Astartes stood like stones watching her for any "tricks." Isira looked to her hands the wrinkles were increasing ever since she heard Adelram's voice. Someone entered the tent breaking her thoughts and it was someone she did not like to see. It was Sebastian, he chained her to the throne and treats her like a trophy of sorts.

To Isira his musk was mixed with the strong scent of blood and gore. As always he spends a great amount of time tormenting slaves. He walked over to her and knelled down smiling "My dear brother must be enjoying the company of our cousins right now. I have seen what they do to "unbelievers" Isira it's quite wonderful." Isira scowled "Why did you do that! For what purpose!" Sebastian's tongue flicked out he held it for a few seconds as he drew his nail down it drawing a small measure of blood "Well I wanted him to suffer greatly. Death is far too easy, So I had his legs broken. Gethus told me how he screamed like a child. I wish I could of seen it."
As he said this patches of her blonde hair began to turn grey she wanted to cry but not in front of him. Anything but that she told herself. Sebastian picked up her hair and sniffed it "Even if the colour is becoming disgusting your hair smells so nice." Sebastian smiled, Isira knew what he was going to ask "I will ask you again serve me and you will be free. You can even enjoy the delights of the camp."

Isira scoffed "You know my answer. So you better get to torturing me again." Sebastian pouted "Torturing you got rather boring to say the least. I wonder why do you like my weakling brother so much?" Isira looked away "It's none of your business." Sebastian held her face he licked her cheek "I wonder how he swept you off your feet in order for you to be so loyal. Adelram is a stick in the mud compared to me. He has always been that way perhaps that's why he can't truly grasp the way of how to truly follow the dark prince."

Isira looked directly into his eyes the scent of blood and gore was vanishing the musk was filling her nostrils she felt her mind slowing down her body became slack. Sebastian repeated his question "Serve me. Be mine and know endless bounties." In Isira's mind a word was crawling into her mind slowly she wondered what was happening this never happened before.

Isira's lips moved "Y-Never! I will never bow to you!" Sebastian sighed "Very well. Perhaps he can entertain you." Sebastian stood up right and walked to the tent door he opened it slightly.
A chained slave hobbled towards scars lining his face and hands. Isira recognised him she curled her lips in digust "Belov." Belov looked up at her smiling "The master said. If I hit you the torture will stop."
Isira lurched forward straining at the chains "He is lying!" Belov held his head "He said. it will. stop." Isira looked at Sebastian grinning "Now dear Belov. I understand this woman has wounded you greatly. Do enjoy yourself." Sebastian left the tent laughing.

Isira bought her eyes to Belov she watched him breathe in and out he stood motionless for almost a minute. Belov began to walk slowly towards her, Belov raised his fist he swung his fist into Isira's face. She fell to the ground. He began stomping and kicking her. Isira grit her teeth for some reason it actually hurt far more than usual.

She found all the torture began to hurt her there was no joy or pleasure in it. Belov continued to cry "He said it will stop!" He kicked her in the belly. Belov was breathing heavily. He was about to kick her again until Isira heard a whistle sound. A bolt was lodged in Belov's head, soon wires whipped out slashing his head to pieces. He crumpled to the ground with a thud.

Both Astartes readied their bolters and looked around the tent. Isira looked to the tent wall behind the throne there was a small hole. As she blinked two more holes were made she looked back to see bolts lodged in the helmets of both Astartes. They stood still for a moment and soon collapsed to the ground.

She sat in silence wondering what just happened. A knife pierced through the tent wall, the knife moved down wards opening a hole revealing the stone wall of the camp. A man stepped through wearing a cloak and skull helmet. He approached her.
She was not entirely sure what to do. The man wearing the skull helmet gripped the manicle on her neck and pulled it apart. He then moved to her hands and feet. Isira rubbed her wrists. She tried to stand but fell down slightly.
The man swiftly swept her up in both arms and stepped back through the hole. It was tight being next to the wall of the tent and the stone wall of the camp. Isira wondered how they would get out the noise of the camp covered their deaths but how would he get past all the Astartes. To Isira's shock the man's cloak began to change turning into wings.

The man launched himself over the wall. Isira said under her breath "We are outside the camp..." The man flapped his wings again and they went flying in the air.
She looked back to see Astartes going into the tent, some even pointed yet it was too late. Isira also noted the giant crossbow on his back she wondered how he could fly carrying such a thing along with her weight.
She looked directly at the man holding her and asked "Who are you?" He was silent for a moment as he spoke she recognised the voice "I said I will come and save you." Isira eyes went wide in disbelief as she said "You should be dead." Asriel shook his head "You thought I will be dead. You should not place too much stock on visions sent by the gods."

Isira bit her lips "How are we flying?" Asriel turned his head to her slightly "Considering the weight I am using a bit of telekensis to help alivate that." Isira gave a small laugh "There is no point saving me considering our lord is dead." Asriel fell silent again for a moment he soon said "This is why I did not rescue you sooner. You would not leave or want to be saved if he was not alive." Isira's eyes went wide a tear almost trailed down her cheek "So he is..." Asriel nodded "Alive."
Isira smiled she held Asriel tightly.

Adelram heard a knock. He ignored it and then another he shouted "Leave me in peace!" Soon the door opened he rose "Who dares!?" He slowly sat down again soon as he saw who it was. Marthas stepped through the door.
He walked over and sat down next to him. Adelram moved straight to the point "Why are you here?" Marthas looked at him his face was neutral "To talk to you of course." Adelram frowned "I don't want to talk you." Marthas shrugged "You will listen either way."
Adelram scowled "there is nothing to fix Marthas. I would have never expected you to become an apostle." Marthas smiled to Adelram it was somewhat unsettling to see the way his face was shaped did not suit smiling. He preferred his dour look "I did not expect it either. Still to get what I want this is what I have to be." Adelram raised his eyebrow "What is it that you want?" Marthas folded his arms "To smash the foundation of the imperium." Adelram laughed "With what? A few armed men and two Astartes?"

Marthas shook his head "I expected you to lead us to that and if I die before then I hope my teachings carry on." Adelram sighed he knew it he wants to preach to him "Marthas I am not interested in the cult you developed." Marthas chuckled slightly "I understand the problems you faced." Adelram narrowed his eyes at him "Problems?" Marthas nodded "I don't know what despair the plague sorcerer told you to embrace but I understand the problems you faced leading the warband."
Adelram scoffed "Oh really? What problems did I face then?" Marthas tapped his chin with two fingers "The fact you could not truly ravage a world. Save for a few Astartes none were reliable. Also the fact controlling the serf population due to the sensory deprivation of the Astartes on the ship." Adelram was silent those were problems he had some Astartes questioning him in the past when Asriel was asleep that he was still limiting them.

Adelram sighed "What would you have done?" Marthas held his chin "Well if you defeat Sebasbtian and control the warband again I have a solution that can help produce the elite you require." Adelram scoffed "You are trying to make me face him."
Marthas shook his head "As you are? No. If you faced him now he would kill you with ease." Marthas rubbed his neck "We need to hone you to a razor point edge. It would take days or even months but it can be done." Adelram creased his brow "You would have me learn from a failed servant? No creature." Adelram could see Marthas frowning when he said that "Why insult him so? None of this would exist without his hard work. He prepared all of this for you."
As Marthas talked of Asriel it annoyed him "I see you are awfully "friendly" with him. Why be that way with a servant? No I am being too polite as always he is a slave. Do you want him Marthas? You can have him if you want." Marthas sighed "If you truly wish to know fighting with someone for over fifty years does that you considering how many life and death situations you are put in.

Adelram clenched his hands at the thought of Marthas and Asriel being together and fighting side by side for so many years. Adelram has not known Asriel for even a fraction of the time "So tell me Marthas why is my slave so devoted to me? I recall putting him in a cage. I am quite sure he must hate me for that. Honestly I was planning to leave him there to rot." Adelram could see Marthas was not exactly happy with his words Adelram smiled "Struck a nerve have I?" Marthas shook his head "No. It's more the fact how blind you truly are." Adelram chuckled "I am not blind I see more clearly." As Adelram said this he heard a small buzz at the back of his mind he continued "I bet he is doing all of this to gain my forgiveness. Humans can be so pathetic sometimes. Don't you agree Marthas?" Marthas leaned his head back "Is that what you think? Right now he is most likely murdering the person who broke your legs."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "Wha-" Marthas interrupted him "Oh you should of seen his reaction when he got the report that one of the traitors broke your legs. He flew into a rage. His anger, His pain and the clear hurt on his face. His lord going through such a thing it took both Silas and Jedrick to calm him down. Asriel's excess is so wonderful to see when he clearly displays it. You still don't realise how fortunate you are to have such a devoted servant Adelram." Adelram thought on Marthas' words "He could still be seeking forgiveness." Marthas shrugged "He does not desire it." Adelram was surprised "What do you mean?" Marthas stroked his chin "His words were thus when we had our small talks. My lord may never forgive me for what I did. I don't mind as long as I can help him that is all I need and want. If he wants me to end myself when we find him I shall do so."

That certainty that Adelram felt before began crumbling. Doubt set in it would not go away another thought crept into his mind possibly. Just maybe he might of made a mistake somewhere. Adelram tried to push the thought away he looked at Marthas it seemed easier to focus on him. Adelram frowned "You seem so sure of yourself? I am quite sure you are also a "ineffective" degenerate like the rest of my brothers. I guess you are just hiding it better."

Marthas nodded "Well I almost became that way, when Asirel found me it became... difficult I wanted to do things that "distracted" me from my goal. It was happening to many of our men in the compound as well. I found a solution with Asriel's help."

Adelram thought to himself again staring at Marthas for a couple of seconds the way Marthas carried himself he moved to another conclusion there is no way he could be a follower of the dark prince. He seemed too.. calm or at ease. Adelram used his witch sight to look at him as he saw his soulfire it was like a raging inferno ready to engulf him. The purple flames lashing and pulling at anything that got close. It was hot way too hot compared to Sebastian it felt like his skin was melting. Looking at Sebastian was like looking at a bright light in a building. Starting at Marthas was like looking at the sun.

Adelram was breathing rapidly he could see Marthas smiling he asked "What did you see? I assume deflecting your problems is not working anymore? Or perhaps possibly you might be wrong?" Adelram look down in his heart in that pit of despair he knew he was right Adelram blurted out without thinking "Your soul is too bright." Marthas leaned back on the wall he placed his weapon on his lap "Asriel with the aid of Caius made this weapon for me. I call it Eligos." Adelram could see that there was a neverborn within the weapon various runes was carved on the spiked censer.

Adelram gave a heavy sigh "Don't you feel any shame going to mere humans for help?" Marthas shook his head "Why should I? They help me to perfect myself in war. I would be shaming myself if I refused. They are giving the means to kill stronger opponents. They allow me to hone myself even further."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "Perfect yourself in war?" Marthas nodded "Indeed. I learned in the end the gods feed on suffering and death first most. That is the highest prayer to them." Adelram frowned "You sound like Ivan." Marthas held his chin "Perhaps. He was right on that aspect from what Asriel told me. Still, will slaanesh truly reward those who only sit on the table and devour food all day? Will he strengthen the man or women who spends all their free time in pleasure houses? No. He gives to those who bring him the souls and the best way to do that is through war. I will become the epitome of warfare. The highest point of it."

Adelram folded his arms "You now sound like a Khornate." Marthas creased his brow "Khronates do war for the sake of it. Joy does not enter it. Becoming better is not the goal. Honing yourself to a razor edge is not a part of what they do. Learning and experiencing every facet of it. Being stuck in a life and death situation how your mind races with solutions. The adrenaline of overcoming that and growing from it. Khorne demands war to spill blood nothing else. Emotion does not enter it. He limits how you do it Slaanesh does not. Slaanesh wants you to exprience everything of your chosen field."

Adelram listened to his words the obsession of perfecting yourself through warfare. He thought of Lucius the eternal suddenly. He aimed to be the best swordsman so he fought anyone who was deemed to be better than him. No matter the opponent. No matter who he had to destory or kill to get there and now he is the dark princes highest champion.

Marthas continued "I almost died several times to get where I am today. Yet it was worth it. When I killed those plague marines it was like they were moving in slow motion. I could hear him moving his finger to the trigger. The bullets moving in the air. I could see it all. I can tell Asriel wants to prepare us for something. Looking at that warp scar in the sky I know deep down the galaxy is a far more dangerous place and we have to be ready for that."

Adelram looked to his hands the buzzing in his mind became intense part of knew he had to say it. Perhaps just maybe someone might understand. "Marthas I want to tell you something." He watched Marthas turn to him listening "What is it." Adelram clenched his eyes shut trying to push back the buzzing sound "It's why I do what I do." Adelram could see he was listening carefully, Adelram's mouth felt dry for some reason "My father my primarch. Ignores me. In the past no matter how hard I tried no matter how I rose ranks. He has no uttered a single word or look."

Adelram sighed "I hear stories of neverborn bearing messages from our father to his most favoured. Complements even warnings. I charged that wall on cadia just hoping even if I die I might get a word from him." Adelram fell silent waiting for a response he laughed slightly "All I did was for something so simple. So... childish my master, Fabius was right. Damian was right. He broke us and I could not even see it. I danced his tune now I have nothing."

Adelram looked up to Marthas who was shaking his head in disagreement "I don't think it's childish at all." Adelram blinked rapidly surprised the buzzing sound within his mind slowly started to vanish "Are you saying what I just want to hear?" Marthas stood up and looked at him "No I am not." Marthas paced the room "You just have not done enough."

Adelram grew angry "Enough!? I died Marthas! I died for it yet I got nothing!" He watched Marthas smile "You died yet now you have stopped?" Adelram clenched his hands "I lost my mark. It's like a part of me is gone." Marthas stopped pacing "Perhaps losing it is a test." Adelram looked up he said "What?"

Marthas repeated "Perhaps it's a test. To see truly what you can do and right now I suspect you are disappointing the dark prince." Marthas leaned down close to Adelram's face "Who care's if your father is treating this as a game? Who care's if he might be truly ignoring you? If we ravage a world and destroy their population? Yet he still casts his gaze elsewhere? We ravage two more."

Adelralm looked away "I have done that." Marthas grabbed his face to look directly at him "No you haven't! When you attacked Cortva you left before the real war came! We were drained fighting dark eldar raiders!" Marthas voice level changed almost to a whisper "You just exploited a weakened force, I had word an imperial guard regiment was coming." Adelram bit his lip "We did not have the for-"

Marthas let go of his face and turned away "Excuses! How do you know if you don't try!? Half measures won't get your wish! When we face Loyalist Astartes we should utterly crush them and send their souls screaming to the dark prince! If we face the imperial guard they should fear us to the point that they end their lives before we get there! If we face the sisters of battle!? We silence their hyms to the false emperor completely!"

Adelram felt drawn in by his words yet the hole in his hearts won't go away he still felt that same despair gripping him "Marthas. This despair this feeling. It won't go away it wei-" Marthas pointed at him "It should! It should weigh on you! That's telling you that you haven't done enough! It should always be there to tell you that your desire is not for filled yet!"

Adelram sat in silence that weight was still there. Yet he felt something else mixed in with the despair, Marthas turned back to him he held out his hand "Tell me. What will do you?" Adelram looked at his hand thinking. Marthas was right he might fail or stumble but why stop? He will only truly fail if he stops. Adelram stood up slowly as Adelram slowly reached for Marthas' hand the buzzing within his mind started to seem distant. Adelram grasped Marthas' hand.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/06 15:03:08


Post by: shinros


Chapter 9

Entry 10970

We've been harrying both forces but there was a problem. The slave decline rate has been increasing dramtically in the last few weeks. (I like to keep track, no one else does because I don't want an event occuring where we run out and everything fall's to pieces. Due to our forces "needs".) The only time we can capture them is when we scout closer to the death guard and traitor territories. We capture imperials to take back to the compound. They get a choice join us or slavery until death. Many choose the slavery shockingly but many change their mind after a few days.
I listened in to the slaves talking and found that at night a shadow stalks them in the halls. I approached Marthas(Ever since gaining understanding and after some time of getting Silas to join us he allowed me to finally mention his name in my journal entries) I told him about the issue. We both had a good guess who it was.

So we waited in the area where slaves normally vanish. Marthas noted I should use myself as bait, I agreed. So I replaced my clothes and waited. Marthas was in a room next to me. I soon heard footsteps then out of the darkness of the hall came charging an Astartes, it was Silas. He tried to kill me he ran at me screaming that he needs to feel. That I should run and make the hunt interesting. I was wearing a hood so he could not see my face perhaps even if I was not wearing it he would still try to attack me anyway.

One thing he should be aware of is that I am no simple prey. This time I summoned strength from Meliva. We attacked him together as the fight began Marthas approached Silas from behind and grabbed him he began trashing. Screaming to let him continue the hunt.
I readied myself I nodded to Marthas to let him go Silas charged at me with both hands I pushed down. Silas slowed like a great weight was placed on him he soon fell to his knees. Then to his hands and eventually to the ground. He continued screaming yelling that he needs to kill me. I watched Marthas scratching his chin in contemplation. Eventually Jedrick arrived and Marthas requested that Jedrick should help him take Silas to his room. When I asked what he was going to do he simply told me that he just wants to talk to Silas. I did not question further since I trusted Marthas to handle it and most likely the decline rate on slaves should steady again.


Asriel landed at the edge of the compound ritual area, he set Isira down and attached a wristband to her wrist. Isira gazed at it "Quite an interesting ritual you put together." Asriel could tell she spoke in a condescending tone. He still disliked her but she is necessary. It's clear that in the short time she has served his lord directly he relies on her somewhat. Perhaps he would rely on her far more in this situation and possibly break him out of his despair if Marthas is not successful.

Asriel looked to Isira's feet, they looked bloodied and bruised for some reason she is slowly healing. Asriel walked over and picked her up again to her suprise she questioned him "I can walk myself." Asriel shook his head "Your feet. No reason to cause unesscary damage."
Oddly Asriel felt Isira gripping him tightly as she asked "Is it safe to walk around here?" Asriel looked around "Yes. this is largely our area of control there are snipers and scouts at various points in the area."
It took them a few minutes to reach the compound as they entered the courtyard many who spirited away from the ship explosion were not exactly pleased to see who Asriel bought in. Asriel did not care his lord would need her so she is here. He is quite sure she could protect herself but Asriel will make clear if anyone attempts anything he will end them.

Isira tapped him on the shoulder Asriel looked at her as they made their way here her blonde hair had patches of grey and she bore wrinkles they were all gone by the time they got back. He suspected her youth and looks are connected to her mental state. She smiled "Why are you staring at me?" Asriel turned away "It's not what you are thinking. I assume you want me to put you down?" Isira nodded.
Asriel gently placed her back on her feet. Asriel folded his arms "I assume you want to know where he is?" Isira turned to him and gave another smile. Asriel gestured upwards with his head "His room is on the second floor." Isira frowned "Aren't you going to give me a tour then?" Asriel grew confused "Why? I assume you can handle yourself."

Isira gave a coy grin as she walked over and held his arm "Well, you saved me and bought me here like a damsel in distress. Be a gentleman and give me a tour Asriel." Asriel sighed "Fine." Both of them walked into the apartment complex. Asriel could tell people were still staring.
Adelram sat with Marthas in his room, Marthas described his philosphy in more detail and Adelram knew it would be something they need in the future. Jedrick can handle the bulk of their forces but they need someone to produce and hone the elite. Marthas had the right mind set for that. Adelram also questioned Marthas on how exactly is he going to get stronger in a short time frame. Marthas simply told him they have to wait for Asriel's he has set everything in place.

Adelram still felt conflicted whenever it came to Asriel. He is still angry thinking on the past event further in the end to Asriel it was over a hundred years ago. Plus the fact he could not ignore what he has done here he can't deny it anymore. Adelram sighed "I will talk with him when he returns." Marthas nodded "You will not be disappointed. Asriel as prepared many materials." As Marthas said this Adelram heard a knock on his door.

Adelram grunted in annoyance. Marthas stared at him "You are not going to answer? You are our leader it could be something important." Adelram sighed as he got up and opened the door it was someone he did not expect to see. It was Isira clinging to Asriel's arm. Adelram got the distinct feeling that Asriel is annoyed going by his body language.

Isira let go of Asriel and barged into the room. She was beaming as she looked at him, as always Adelram could not understand her obsession with him. Adelram gestured to Asriel who was standing at the door "Are you not coming in?" Adelram could see Asriel standing still for a few seconds like a stone before he walked into the room.

Adelram closed the door he looked at Isira save the dirty clothes she looked exactly how he remebered her. Marthas stood up and approached Asriel raising an eyebrow "She was the errand?" Asriel nodded. Marthas stroked his chin "Still our lord is ready now." As he said this Adelram watched Asriel gaze at him for several moments as he said "I will get my things ready. My lord my room is on the fourth floor it's the one with tally marks on it." Asriel gave a bow and moved to leave
Isira folded her arms "Wait. There is something I want to talk about." Asriel stopped, Adelram raised his eyebrow "What about?" Adelram could see Isira was frowning. Isira spoke her voice firm "Asriel infiltrated Sebastian's camp. From what I have seen he could kill Sebastian given the opportunity. Why hasn't he done so?"

Marthas shook his head "Our lord has to defeat him. Not Asriel." Isira squinted her eyes and pointed at Marthas "I heard what they did to him. It's too much of a risk." Marthas scowled "What you want will make him weak! You are denying him the chance to better himself!" Isira scoffed at his anger "You are setting him up for slaughter!"

Adelram lisntened it would be the smart thing to do. Yet to do so felt wrong to him he voiced his thoughts "I will prepare myself to face Sebastian. That's what I will do." Adelram could see Isira was growing tense she pleaded "Please don't do this. I have seen what he can do." Adelram turned to Asriel "I meet you at your room." Asriel nodded and left.

Isira grit her teeth "After all this time... I can't allow this! I can't let you die!" The room began to fill with a strange heat the runes on Isira's body glowed brightly. Marthas readied his weapon, Adelram waved him back he walked towards Isira. Adelram raised his eyebrow "Why do you care so much?" Isira narrowed her eyes "I just do! I will stop you from doing this! I watched you die once already and now? You run straight into the slaughter again! You might not come back this time!"

Adelram coutined walking slowly towards her "No. This is not normal. This is not a normal obession. Even my captain had his share of admirars among his slaves but this is different." Adelram stopped in front of her "So would you harm me to stop me from doing what I deem correct?" Adelram could see she was trembling Isira cried out "You are always like this! You always think you know best!"
Adelram grew confused "What do you mean? I am always like this?" As Adelram said this the power she was generating died down. To his eyes she let something slip. Adelram pushed the matter further "Isira how do you know me? I recall when we found you, you refused to speak to my captain. No matter what he did to you. You wanted to speak with me why?"

In a rare moment he watched Isira slinking away in fear. Not the facade she plays up but true and utter terror. She did not want to meet his gaze she turned her head away slightly. Tears began rolling down her cheeks "After all I did. All I killed main and tortured to become like this. Nothing. I even dropped hints in the past of course you being an Astartes it would not even register."
Adelram confusion increased "The past? What past?" Isira gave a sad laugh "I even wrote your favourite book." As she said this it dawned on Adelram a sick realisation lining his stomach he shook his head "It's impossible. Sh-" Isira finished his sentence "Is dead? There is no way that she could be alive?"

Isira spread her arms wide "I gave so much to become like this. To be perfect for you of course I should of knew my love would forever be unrequited I am fine with that." Adelram was in disbelief but considering the nature of chaos it is possible. He looked at Isira she looked nothing like Moira. It is like night and day.

Adelram clenched his hands in frustration "You should of known better." Isira nodded "I know but I could not help it." Adelram creased his brow he sighed "What do you want me to call you then?" Isira smiled "What you prefer." Adelram nodded "Considering you changed your name I will stick with that."

Adelram could clearly see she was dissppointed she prepared herself but it's clear she wanted something that he could not give. It all made sense when Adelram put the events in the past together. A strange emotion began to fill his chest he was it relief? Or annoyance? Or Perhaps a mix of both? Not being able to see the signs even in the past. If he recognised her sooner might of things been different? If knew it was her would he have made different choices?

Isira grew silent in the end there is one thing he could recognise clearly and it's something which is obvious to everyone. Something that he could at least acknowledge but he knows she would want to hear it from him. He leaned down and whispered into her ear "I cannot give what you want but you are beautiful." Adelram leaned back.

There was a mix of shock and geniue happiness lining her features she smiled gently as she said "Thank you." Adelram sighed "Now I have things to do. Do you have any further protests?" Isira shook her head. She simply gave a small bow and left the room in silence.
Adelram folded his arms and turned to Marthas who was impassive who watched the whole situation unfold Adelram shook his head in annoyance "Humans." Marthas nodded in agreement. "Indeed."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/06 15:13:02


Post by: lliu


Mhmmm. Plot twist. Either way I hope adelram fights Sebastian soon. It’ll be a good fight.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/06 15:15:34


Post by: shinros


Intermission chapter 2

entry 10977

Apologies this is another long entry I have seen Silas exiting and leaving Marthas' room the slaves decline rate has steadied itself. I wonder what Marthas did Silas still acted in a similar manner but now he seemed more... focused? In battle each of his moves seemed more practised and precise. I have even seen him practising with his blade for hours on end. He even asked me to help him train and not to hold back. He asked the same with Jedrick. Jedrick soon questioned Silas. I was in earshot what I gathered is that Marthas convinced Silas that he has been dealing with his excess in the wrong way this whole time. Jedrick grew annoyed wondering what exactly he said to change his mind considering his personality. Silas simply shrugged and said Marthas' vision of slaanesh is really interesting and he wants to follow that.

The thing that bothered me about the conversation is why hasn't many realized this sooner? Why did it take Marthas setting up his cult for them to actually think about something like this? That they might be doing something wrong?

I approached Marthas on the subject. He simply told me they did not think about it because no one told them otherwise or would dare to. I finally understood I mentioned that the old dark Apostle Ivan essnetinally said it's okay to gratify yourself on anything and he let the Astartes do what they want. Very few were interested in his books or even what he had to say but all they wanted largely is to wallow in the hendonism Ivan provided.

Marthas said Ivan was incorrect in handling them that way since a dark apostle like a chaplain is meant to look after the mind and spiritual health of the Astartes they are grouped with instead of the emperor it was to the dark gods or in our case slaanesh. (I am not even sure if that's the actual role of a dark apostle. I have only Ivan to go by. I just think he is projecting what occurs with the loyalist Astartes to us. In the end it's working so I don't really care.)

Marthas then asked me to describe their place of worship.

I told him it was essetinally a cathedral with small booths. I never looked inside but screams came from them. At the Altar there was a giant Statue of what I presumed to be Slaanesh. Marthas then asked me what the statue looked like thinking back did I find it beautiful? I thought back to the statue and I told him honestly I did find it beautiful. He nodded and essentially he made the point that war can also be beautiful and there can be joy within it.

Marthas then touched my head gently as he said "See what I saw and understand."

He began to speak of his dreams and visions that occurred when he left for a few days the scenery filled my mind as his spoke this is his word by word of it "I heard small chimes in the background it was like music it was mixed with the rolling and screaming of souls. I walked a dusty battle field I could also hear the sound of people crying out for help. The laughter of the children of the dark prince as they danced and sang across the battlefield the fear, longing and irrationality gripping those gazing upon glory. Each cut was perfect. Each kill refined. There were those screaming in prayer as they offered themselves up to be devoured by them. A figure soon stepped forth in shimmering sliver armour. She had a purple aura and long flowing blonde hair. She moved with grace, he carried himself as the epitome of perfect general, swordsman and strategist. All basked in her glory. Her beauty was not the kind where one would lust for her but the sort that bought a tear down your cheek. You wanted to be like her. You wanted to be him. Just gazing at such a being made you realize how inaquiquite you are and that you should feel that way you have seen perfection why not try to reach it?"

After that he finally moved his hand away from my head I oddly found a tear rolling down my cheek.(Small note I have not cried a single tear in one hundred years. Perhaps it's just my body reacting to his vision?) Meliva was shivering I could tell I felt her moving rapidly. I asked Marthas where he got this vision? He told me it was during his outing when he vanished a few days after my story. He was outnumbered by death guard and bleeding out.

He was behind cover being shot at. He detailed how his mind raced, with possible solutions. He was excited even. The pain gripping him in the middle of the situation honed his mind and dealing with the fact he was bleeding out. He made note that's when the vision happened. I tried to point out that it might be simple delirium since he was dying and not a vision from a god(or goddess) itself.

He then pointed out to me that after the vision he was full of vigour. His wounds were gone and everything was moving in slow motion. He could hear as the death guard moved their finger to the trigger of their bolters. The small servo's in the power armour moving with the motion. As his sweat dropped from his brow and hit the road.

Bullets were trailing slowly past him. As he said that I asked him is that how it is for him all the time? He said no, his senses were now far more acute but it's mainly during battle when he truly wants to defeat someone that it occurs also killing people with Eligos increases his speed further. I guessed considering he is here now that the death guard did not survive the encounter.

I also raised the point that how does he know it's the correct way to do things? There are many Apostles of slaanesh having their own version of worship. He nodded in agreement he said that the decline rate of slaves steadied it did not stop. People torment and inflict their desires upon them still but they now seek or prefer to do it on the enemies of war after they defeat. He said "enjoying" the spoils of war is another important aspect of it.

As he said this I did notice after battle ends sometimes some of our men or even Silas drag some of our enemies away even the dead ones. I had no interest I just went to the truck to check my weapons and ready myself for the next battle and as long as the slaves that were are "used" at the compound are replaced in a timely fashion I did not voice any complaint.

My curiosity satisfied I moved to leave. Marthas did stop me though he asked which image of slaanesh I prefered the one in the cathedral or the one he showed? I did not answer at that time but now? After thinking about it? I think the one Marthas showed me look far more... graceful and beautiful. Something I did not want to admit to him I felt a deep sense of love and adoration. Meliva chided me that I should feel that way about the dark prince all the time.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/06 15:16:22


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Mhmmm. Plot twist. Either way I hope adelram fights Sebastian soon. It’ll be a good fight.


I hope people will like what I am planning for it. Adelram's Journey to it I think it's going to be interesting.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/06 15:28:49


Post by: shinros


Chapter 10

Adelram stood in front of Asriel's room door. There were tally marks all over the door, none of the other doors bared them. Adelram turned the handle and opened the door. As he stepped in Asriel's room his room seemed like a armoury mixed with a library. The room was quite large as well. There were guns and blades lining the walls there were stacks of books on a desk. Books lined on book shelves. He also had a bed in the corner. Adelram could see a closet next to the bed. Around the closet simply brushing his thoughts against it he could detect a lament of pain and suffering. It strained his mind looking at it for too long. He wondered what Asriel has placed within it.

Adelram diverted his eyes to Asriel who was in discussion with a tech priest surrounded by servitors. Adelram wondered how he got one to join them. Adelram walked forward, Asriel turned to him and bowed slightly "My lord. I had Caius come here to remove your old gear" Adelram raised his eyebrow "You mean fix?"

Asriel shook his head "I have new armour prepared for you. It's not ready yet but for the first part of what I am going to show you It will be helpful if you are not wearing your power armour." Adelram looked to his legs, they still creaked when he walked and he had to walk slowly as well.
Adelram nodded "Very well." The tech priest Caius approached with servitors he was quite large he almost reached his face. Long tendrils that seemed to be attached to his body began picking over his armour and scanned various sections of it. He stopped and a long abnormal sound came from under his hood.

Adelram furrowed his brows "What is he saying?" Asriel removed his skull helmet and smiled "He is swearing in binary." Adelram responded "May I ask why?" Asriel shrugged "I can't fully understand it." Adelram frowned "I wish for you to speak plainly Tech priest Caius."
The abnormal sound stopped and a voice devoid of emotion came from under the red hood "Astartes Adelram. I find your abuse of your power armour to be horrific." Adelram sighed "I had my legs crushed." The tech priest shook his head "Not only that. When was the last time your armour received sufficient maintenance?"

Adelram scowled "Are you going to take off my armour or not? I am getting a new one anyway." Caius went back to his work in silence. To Adelram's suprise the armour was removed in blinding speed he could not remember the last time he had a tech priest do this. The servitors were carrying the various sections of his power armour.

Caius nodded "These parts are sufficient. They can be used to finish the project." Caius walked out of Asriel's room with servitors in tow. Asriel walked over and handed him a long hoodded black robe.

Adelram put it on. He looked around the room again and he now realised the walls also had tally marks on them as well. Even the floor. Adelram gestured at them "Why do you have tally marks all around your room? Even on your door?" Asriel looked up to him "Counting the days. I eventually lost count anyway." Adelram realised again he has been waiting a hundred years.

Asriel sat on the floor his cloak wrapping itself around him slightly, Adelram followed suit. Asriel began to explain "My lord. I want to ask do you understand the difference between using your psychic powers and using sorcery?"

Adelram thought for a moment he then said "I thought I was using sorcery?" Asriel tapped his chin "Not really. You were just using the raw power of a psyker largely." Adelram squinted his eyes "What of summoning neverborn?" Asriel folded his arms "It is sorcery of a sort but even those who are not even a pskyer can summon neverborn my lord."

Asriel smiled "What I am going to show is you wielding your very corruption to destroy your enemies. The warp itself mixed with the corruption of your very being." Adelram held his shoulder "Yet I lost my mark." Asriel nodded "Yes but your body is still saturated with the touch of slaanesh."
Asriel got up and grabbed a book from the shelf and sat back down again Adelram stroked his chin "Isira from what I have learned could teach me a few things. She seems to have been at this far longer than you have." Asriel opened the book he looked up "She has lived longer than me but has not studied this more than me. She can do sorcery but not to the levels I have learned. Meliva also helped as well."

Adelram looked at Asriel it was strange to see him so sure of himself after all he did to him as well. Adelram eyed Asriel "What is that book?" Asriel smiled "Runes and prayers of power we are going to tattoo to your body." Adelram rubbed his neck "Is this nesscary?" Asriel nodded "It is. Sorcerers tend to brand their skin and armour to use more power. I am sure you have noticed. Sorcerer's chanting as they cast their sorcery, wearing charms or have runes engraved on their armour. Your mind alone is not enough to wield the full power of the warp."

Adelram watched Asriel remove his gauntlet. He could see the runes of his skin were now different many of the words were reorganised and there was a snake like tattoo around his wrists. Adelram became concerned "You changed them? Won't Meliva take control?" Asriel shook his head "No. We have come to a strange agreement or working relationship in other words."

Asriel soon sat up and moved next to him and showed him the book he flicked through the pages "Certain prayers of power work better with certain psychic powers. Or certain words have meaning to different people. I assume you studied the dark tongue my lord?" Adelram nodded "I have. I had to in order to craft something I used in the past."

Asriel then handed him the book, Adelram looked through it and stopped on one page it had a strange prayer or chant for power the page also had art of two snakes intertwining. It was like a prayer to the dark prince for him to look upon them and fill them with power. To feel the esctacy of his touch and to unleash it on his foes. Adelram pointed to the page "That one."

Asriel nodded he got up again and walked over to the desk he opened the lower drawer. Adelram noted it was quite large. Asriel pulled out a sliver box and moved to sit next to him again. He lay the box to his side and pulled out a pen. There was a black ink cartridge in the box. Asriel picked it up and unscrewed the top and looked at it and frowned.

He stared at him Adelram asked "What's the matter?" Asriel sighed "I need an important component I will be a few minutes." Asriel got up and left the room.

Adelram continued reading the the book. It was quite fascinating and he recalled how the air changed when Isira summoned her psychic powers. He wondered if it felt any different? To use his powers along with the brands? Adelram continued reading for about 10 to 20 more minutes. Adelram's eyes soon went to the closet. Adelram left the book on the floor and got up he walked over the closet the closer he walked to it the sensation he felt before came back it was far stronger.

He held the handle and opened it. As he did so bones, tons of human bones poured out. Skulls, finger bones and even shin bones. Rib cages could be seen in the pile he guessed that every part of the human body was there. Adelram picked up a skull and gazed into it's empty eye sockets the longer he gazed at the skull flashes appeared in his mind. He could see an inquisitor a female inquisitor pointing. Asriel was on his knees his back was on fire. He could see burning black feathers bellowing around Asriel and the inquisitor.
Asriel spat a string of words the shadows themselves assaulted the inquisitor. As the shadow tendrils touched her it tore away chunks of flesh. Holding the skull Adelram could sense her agony and pain. Adelram could also feel Asriel's joy at watching her being maimed and tortured through the shadow tendrils.

The vision vanished as Adelram heard a door opening and closing. Asriel returned he held a jar full of blood he also held a dripper. Adelram looked at him he was staring and soon he cast his head down in embarrassment "My lord. My things.. I.." Adelram looked at the skull again "It's a nice collection. I can see why you keep the body parts of people you kill. So many fond memories I guess."

Asriel looked up to him and smiled "Yes. So many fond memories. The skull you are holding belonged to the inquisitor that burned my wings. I really liked them I maimed her and used her body and blood in the making of my cloak. It's the least I could do for her."

Adelram could see he was almost smiling like a child as he spoke. Now he is reminded of his twisted sense of innocence. Adelram had to be honest to himself he found it rather endearing whenever he acted so. He had no idea why.

Adelram looked to the skull again "I see." Adelram packed the bones back into the closet and moved to sit down in the spot where he left the book.

Adelram coughed slightly "What are you going to do with that?" Asriel sat back down next to him. He opened the black ink cartridge again he looked up to him "I am going to add blood to the mix. It's the condition that I aquired the blood that is the most important. I got it from a slave as I slowly killed him."

Adelram mumured "I see." He watched Asriel placed the jar on the ground next to him he opened the jar of blood and drained some of the contents with the dripper. He placed the dripper near the open ink cartridge, Asriel squeezed it lightly to release a few drops. Asriel closed the black ink cartridge and gave the cartridge a small shake before putting it into the pen. Asriel held up the pen "Where do you want it my lord?" Adelram removed his robe slightly "My right bicep.

Asriel nodded and got to work. Adelram found the sensation odd, it tingled yet it felt good at the same time. Adelram watched Asriel transcribe the contents of the page on his bicep along with the art of the intertwining snakes.

It took Asriel several hours but it was eventually done. As the pen left his skin the sensation vanished the joy vanished. Adelram thought he would gain a surge of power or some strange understanding "Asriel I fe-" In that instant the tattoo flared up the words shone with purple eldtricth flame. Adelram felt his nerves being caressed. He gripped his arm and gritted his teeth.

Asriel whispered "Focus my lord." Adelram closed his eyes the euphoria he was feeling. It was maddening almost. Adelram tried to centre his thoughts he took heavy breath's as the flames on the tattoo died down.

Adelram could still feel the sensation somewhat in his body but he could deal with it. Adelram looked at him "Is that it?" Asriel shook his head "No. We have a lot more to go. I am hoping to cover your whole back and do the other arm. Also perhaps even your legs." Adelram frowned.
Adelram felt exhausted. Which was rare for an Astartes each tattoo placed on his body he was overloaded with sensation. Oddly he wanted to rest. The tattoo on his back was the worst. It was like a grand prayer of torment, pleasure and song and he felt it. As Asriel wrote each syllable he heard the prayer and felt the torment and pleasure that went with it. At the end it was like a soothing song.

As Adelram returned to his room on the second floor he found there was now a large bed with a note. He picked it up and found it was from Lily the note said several of the bridge crew put it together for his return.

Adelram sat down on the bed. He rarely if ever slept but this time he felt he needed it. He lay on the bed it was strange to be out of his armour. He lifted his robes slightly to look at the tattoo's it took so many hours to do. If he recalled correctly with tattoo's you are meant to feel sore but he felt no such sensation. It was the opposite and it was tiring. He wanted to rest yet part of him did not want to.
Adelram sighed if this what it took to get what he wants and to defeat Sebastian so be it.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 00:32:36


Post by: shinros


Chapter 11

entry 10988

Whatever Marthas is doing to Silas he has become incredibly reliable. He still has his same personality but when watching him in battle. Instead of looking like a bored hunter he was like a blade a sharpened blade that hacked and sliced apart any that got in his way. It was amazing to see.
There was not a single wasted movement when he attacked someone. At times he does leave the enemy and let them run and like a predator he takes them down slowly. I assume this is his "spoils" of war.

The times I visit Marthas I see him working on a weapon. The frame was there it was a spiked censer on a long handle. He called me into his room. He said that Caius designed it for him but he needs my help for the spark. He wants to replicate the song and the laughter and roaring of the neverborn from his vision.

I began thinking. I asked him to hand me his weapon I drew a knife from my belt. I made sure not to place too much power within it I don't want it to explode in my hand. I began carving runes on the censer to house the neverborn. I tried to image the neverborn from the vision I picture their form. Their face. Their screams and their song. I rested the weapon on the wall and began chanting.

I captured the image of one of the neverborn in my mind. One of them was a herald(At least I think it was), I questioned Meliva for the name(It took some convincing she was quite reluctant). As she spoke the words my nose and eyes began to bleed. I summoned the neverborn and diverted it into the weapon along with a ritual chant. The censer began to glow a strange smoke surrounded the censer there were several loud chimes and the laughter of neverborn emitting from it.

It was thrashing within the weapon I continued my chant. It was hard to hold, Marthas walked up to his weapon suddenly and began whispering to it. I could not make out what he was saying due to the ritual. After a moment of Marthas whispering to his weapon the thrashing stopped suddenly.
A sweet song came from the weapon along with the scent of perfume. I watched Marthas smile as he named his weapon "Eligos."


Adelram sat at the edge of his bed, he found it hard to sleep whenever he closed his eyes he would see a snake moving closely towards him. He could sense that the snake was dangerous yet he wanted to approach it. He wondered what it was. He wanted to know it's bite and venom.
Adelram shook his head trying to drive that image away he looked out of the window of his room and could see it was night. He sat up and left his room the apartment block was abnormally quiet the halls were empty. After a few moments he caught the sound of screams it was not ear crushly loud like Sebastian's camp.

This was the kind of scream that sent a chill down one's spine, Adelram felt his nerves standing on end. When he walked the halls of the 2nd floor the sound did not stop oddly he did not feel disgusted like how he felt in Sebastian's camp. What was happening here filled him with a strange curiosity. The sound was.. pleasant.

As Adelram took another step he felt a blade at his neck. After a second it was removed. Adelram turned to see who it was, it was Silas. Adelram wondered how he did that considering he is in power armour.
Silas was also not wearing his jump pack. Adelram could see he was holding a human sized power sword in his other hand. Adelram raised his eyebrow "So are you hunting?" Silas shook his head "Practising." Adelram looked at Silas his body language was different he carried himself as a bladesman instead of a bored hunter.

Adelram questioned him "Did you place that power blade at my neck?" Silas looked to the deactivated power sword then up to him "No. It was my combat knife you should be more careful I had my blade at your neck." Adelram gave it a thought if it was an enemy that could of been dangerous he took heed of Silas's words. Adelram folded his arms "So what do you do with the power sword?" Silas held the blade and gazed at it again before lowering it "I give the power sword to the slaves." Adelram's eyes went wide "Why do you give a power sword to slaves?" Silas chuckled "Well for them to attempt to kill me of course."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "May I ask why?" Silas nodded "Well as I said I was practising. I approach slaves and make them an offer if they can bloody me with it they are free to leave. I also handicap myself by sticking with my combat knife." Adelram wondered what happened during the time they were separated also the fact he has not yawned once during this conversation.

Adelram said "So what do you do to the slaves who refuse?" Silas casually shrugged "I leave them alone of course." When he said this it shocked Adelram as he said "Really? You leave them alone? Also you are an Astartes a slave can't easily kill you even with a power sword." Silas nodded "Yes I do. Now you would think a slave would not be able to kill me? What I found interesting Adelram is how hard humans fight when they have a shot for freedom. They do the unpredictable their survival instinct kicks in. I enjoy seeing and reacting to what they do. Who knows if something similar might happen on the battlefield."

Adelram was puzzled again he wondered again who could of done this to Silas there was also joy in his voice as he spoke. How he talked he seemed far more reliable for some reason. Adelram had a good guess who did it, Adelram folded his arms "I see. So what happens to the slaves who fail to harm you?"

Silas twirled the power blade "Well it's until first blood. Some tend to die others do not. The ones that die I try to replace. The ones that don't are still slaves." Adelram thought on what he just said the fact that letting slaves go is actually a risk "The slaves that do bloody you. Isn't letting them go a security risk?" Silas stopped twirling the power blade "Not really. Since without the charm you can't find this place also the fact that you would not survive a day beyond these walls."

Adelram pushed the point further "It's still a risk." Silas responded "If the ones that bloody me leave." Adelram furrowed his brows "If the ones that bloody you leave?" Silas nodded "Indeed. Oddly they stick around and follow me about. I have no idea why."
Adelram looked around Silas "Where are your personal servants then?" Silas chuckled and pointed upwards "You mean my personal slaves? You are way to polite sometimes, If you must know they are sleeping in my room." Adelram laughed slightly, the thought that Silas actually had personal servants "So what do they do for you then?" Silas folded his arms "Well they largely clean my room I have taught one how to maintain my gear."

As Silas said this a person came walking down the stairs. It was Asriel, Adelram called out "Where are you going?" Asriel stopped "Out my lord." Adelram walked towards him and looked directly into the blue eyes of the skull helmet "Out where?" Asriel looked up to him "To the inner city. I am going to check or possibly collect something."

As Adelram was in conversation Silas apporached when he spoke his voice was joyful he sheathed the power sword as he walked "Asriel. Why leave so soon? How about a round?" Adelram could see Silas was getting into battlestance.
Before Asriel could say something Silas drew his power blade it whipped out in Arc. Adelram moved back. Asriel drew his two handed blade it ignited with fire.

As they clashed they steadily moved into the hall. Adelram watched the bout unfolding Asriel was diverting Silas strikes or dodging them out right. Adelram could see the skull helmet was twisting and changing the teeth turning into fangs. The eye lenses now blinking as if it was a face.
Silas then swung his blade sideways it clashed with Asriel's sword knocking it out of his hands. Silas laughed "This is my win!" He bought his blade downwards, Asriel twisted in a swift motion to Silas's right like a flash a knife flicked out and stabbed into the gap of Silas power armour. The knife glew as it was lodged in Silas's arm. Silas lowered his stance and sighed.

Asriel picked up his sword, Silas pointed at the knife in his arm "I hate these things." Asriel shrugged "I got first blood." Silas sighed again "Mind pulling it out? I don't know if it will explode if I touch it." Adelram watched Asriel pull out the knife a small amount of blood dripping to the ground the glow surrounding the knife died down as Asriel removed it.

Silas stretched "That was enjoyable." Asriel shook his head "You do this every time you see me." Silas removed his helmet. Adelram wondered if Silas's face as changed since the last time he had seen him Silas had short white hair with blue eyes he also had a snake tattoo coiling on his right eye with a tiny amount of scripture with it. Save the scripture he has not changed a single bit Silas still had quite a young looking face also. Silas had a large grin on his face "Well I am done for the night."

Silas sheathed his sword and walked up the stairs he did not utter another word as he walked past.

Adelram looked at Asriel sheathing his blade he turned to him the helmet was now normal. Still when Adelram looked at him he was conflicted watching what just happened with everything else he has done he then asked him a question "Did you truly lose control in the past?"
Asriel answered his question after a moment of silence "I did lose control. I killed them I also enjoyed it." Adelram clinched his fists in anger "I recall on the truck Marthas was about to say more. Do you have anything else to say?" Asriel flatly said "No I do not." Adelram breathed in then out and walked towards Asriel he leaned down slightly close to his face "I order you to tell me everything." He could see Asriel looking away slightly as he gave the order.
Adelram narrowed his eyes "Look at me." Asriel turned to face him Adelram nodded "Now are you going to disobey me Asriel?" Adelram caught the sound of a small whimper under the helmet Adelram spoke again with a bit more force in his voice "You belong to me. You are my servant. I gave you an order."

Asriel finally spoke "My lord. There was a plot." Adelram finally leaned back and folded his arms "A plot?" Asriel nodded "To kill me. Amethyst was not aware of it but she thought the plot was to remove the neverborn from me. The ring master was Agoston." Adelram held his chin "So they plotted to kill you and Amethyst was the dupe. I doubt that they took you on directly." Asriel nodded "Amethyst used my journal to bring me to her room. They prepared a circle I could not move and the pain the circle placed on my body was unbearable."

Asriel moved to the wall and leaned back sighing "They bought me to the lower levels of the ship. Agoston revealed multiple parties were involved in the plot. This plot occured due to jealously." Adelram gave a small laugh "Agoston could not be that foolish he would of been found out." Adelram watched Asriel pull out a knife he looked it over as he spoke "They planned for that. Most likely Isira was involved in teaching them the means to protect their minds. You would be suspcious but you would have no clear culprit and he banked on the fact you would not punish everyone."
Adelram walked next to Asriel and leaned on the wall he looked down to him "So you killed them for it?" Asriel shook his head "No. That is not the reason." Adelram responded his voice firm "What was the reason?" Adelram could hear a small amount of anger lining Asriel voice he could feel the neverborn rising as he said "Agoston began tearing pages out of my journal. Your words. Lord Jedrick's words. That was unforgivable. They held me with a circle but I tore it apart. I wanted to kill them for what they did. Ameythst was complicit, she betrayed you also."

Adelram shook his head "Amethyst would never do that." Asriel turned to him his skull changing again shifting into a daemonic scowl "She wanted Meliva removed. She wanted things to change back. She wanted everyone to go back." Adelram thought on his words so the dinner and the camp did not exactly work. It just made her chief excess greater.

Adelram sighed in annoyance "Why did you not mention all of this when I asked you before? Also the fact that Isira might of been involved?" Asriel faced foward again he was calming down as he spoke "It does not change the fact I failed your directive. After I killed their hired guns I could of left both of them alive. Yet I did not. I could not forgive them so I cut loose. In the end I still failed you."

As he said this Adelram creased his brow he did not know what to think he should be pleased that even if he done such an act with how loyal he truly is. It annoyed him that he could of pressed the matter further in the past. The fact it's still surprising to him that he followed an order not to speak a word for one hundred years.

Adelram gave another heavy sigh "Asriel go do whatever you are going to do." Asriel stood upright "You don't want to know the details?" Adelram shook his head "You know what you are doing." Adelram could see Asriel casting his head down slightly then up "I see. I am not too sure how long I will be gone for." Asriel moved to leave but stopped "I have a practice Area prepared for you. So you can get used to the brands on your body. Just ask Marthas he knows where it is. His room is on the fourth floor it has a daemonette face on it."
Adelram looked at the stairs "Fourth floor, daemonette head. I see." Asriel nodded and continued walking down. Adelram waited until Asriel's foot steps became distant he looked upwards as he said to himself "Times wasting."

Adelram slowly walked up the stairs to the fourth floor. As he reached the fourth floor one thing he has now noticed he could detect or even see neverborn fading in and out nipping at certain doors. He looked down the hall to Asriel's door he could see wisps trailing against it as he walked down the hall looking for Marthas' door he soon stopped at a red door. It had a sliver daemonette head on the front of it.

One other thing he noticed is that the door was resized to accommodate the frame of an Astartes. He might had to have the same done to his door since it's quite annoying having to bend down slightly.
As Adelram reached the door wisps erupted from it encircling the sliver head of the daemonette. Purple and pink lights hissing and snapping at the door. Adelram knew them to be such small specks of the servants of the dark prince he knocked on the door casually. As he did so the wisps circled his arm nipping at him. He could dismiss them with a thought but he allowed it the sensation is oddly pleasant to him.

The door slowly opened and the wisps darted away Adelram wondered what caused it. There was a man wearing a black robe his face obscured by his hood his voice was hoarse "My lord. Lord Marthas is expecting you." The robed man opened the door wider, Adelram stepped in.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 00:55:41


Post by: lliu


Nice. It's almost your casual family with different people going out. With slaanesh. And weapons. And demon men.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 01:13:13


Post by: shinros


Chapter 12

entry 10999

Right now things are progressing smoothly. I had various eyes and ears in the inner city and someone who has knowledge of the noble houses and their politics. Right now from my understanding there are three major noble houses left vying to be plantery governor after the conflict is done. Considering the state of the galaxy the imperium cannot exactly "let go" of planets anymore. It's clear one is influenced by Sebastian and another by the nurglites. The third is "unknowingly" on our side. Still I did not help this family get to that position due to information I am largely thinking about the future when we get off world.

Now how I got my hands on this noble family? Well Meliva is partly to blame in this regard I was visiting a pleasure house.(I have no interest in anything there. I was in the location to kill someone.) So I hired the pleasure woman he normally sees. To understand how often he comes here to know his movements.

When she wanted to know my request I simply told her I spent good money to simply speak to her. She sighed in relief when I said that. I wanted to know about a certain client she was tight lipped on the subject of course fearing for her life. Meliva then told me through her I can make a pact of sorts or "agreement" to turn her life around give her an incentive to speak. At that time the term on the pact is 70 years. After the 70 years are up I can collect "payment". I agreed with Meliva's reasoning. I told the pleasure woman that there are things I can do to ensure she gets out of this situation a 70 year term of for filling her desires. After the 70 years are up I will collect payment.(Meliva grew angry at me mentioning the payment part since it might effect her decision to agree with it. I disagreed I prefer if she knows the full details of the pact or "agreement" if you prefer. I tend to find people more often do what you want when you are more "truthful" with them.)

Still Her eyes lit up like the sun itself yet she was hesistant. I pressed further telling her does she wish to serve in a pleasure house forever? To be used and eventually cast aside by a bored crimelord or gangster? She soon agreed.

Meliva told me whisper the words into her ear and ask her if she is agrees. She reacted oddly most likely due to me speaking dark tongue into her ear.

I then left her with an extra tip telling her that I will come back later. Few days later I find that she has quit her job. She now has a new apartment and running a small business to my disblief. She was then more than willing to speak of the target.(I soon killed him after a few days)
To add further her business boomed and she soon became minor nobility. She invested her earnings into the poor and downtrodden. Yet this bought enemies jealous nobles who wanted to see her dead. Meliva then tells me I am obligated to protect her due to the pact. Since we share the same body.(I wish she told me this in the past. I was quite annoyed and all she did was laugh.)So I elimiated each threat. Yet what I found underneath the kind hearted noble with a charitable heart she was filled with vice. Was it due to the pact? Or was she always like that? I had no idea.

She eventually passed away and due to her hedonism she had three progeny. One was filled with lust she had the beauty to go with it. Another was consumed with gluttoney he was huge barely able to move. Yet both were loved by their people. The Child of lust invited men and women to "strange" social gatherings. The child of glutonney spread food to everyone he can see and he was loved for it even the poor ate well.

Shockingly the inquisitors investigated both and found nothing. I did not even have to intervene. The most dangerous and the smartest was the youngest. I will call him the child of pride. He gave everything to the people. I have met him several times actually he is also nice to speak to as well. Still I can see underneath all of that he may not realize it but he is doing all of this due to the joy of being adored. The joy of being praised and loved. He deep down knows he is the best sibling but hides it well even unintentionally.

Even so the child of lust and gluttony grew jealous. (Eventually the war came in and as time passed things got serious. The child of pride did not lift a finger to harm both of them. He loved both of his siblings dearly.)

Still they moved to kill him, I at the time had no idea how to deal with the situation due to the pact. Yet one day both vanished. I assumed the child of pride killed them but Meliva hinted other wise. I suspect it was one of the houses influenced by Sebastian or the nurglites who did the deed. The only reason why I think they did this is due to the fact that possibly they view the child of pride to be weak. In the end it does not matter the plan is going to move soon. The 70 year term is ending in "soon" and I plan to collect on that.


Adelram entered the room there was a person wearing a black robe sitting in front of Marthas a he was looking at a map. The man who opened the door soon sat next to the person with the black robe.

Adelram looked around the room there were censers hanging from the ceiling and walls and book shelves full of books. At both ends of the room. The most odd thing about the room there is a soft song being sang in the room. He wondered where it was coming from Adelram searched the room eventually laying eyes on Eligos rested on the wall. He could sense the song coming from there.

Marthas eventually looked up "You are here Lord Adelram. Please sit." The two robed servants moved apart. Adelram sat in the middle.
Adelram folded his arms "Who are these two?" Adelram gestured his head to the two robed people. He knew one to be a man. Marthas soon smiled "Both of them are my helpers. The one who answered the door is Naberius Naberius nodded "I am pleased to meet you Lord Adelram. Asriel and Marthas speaks so fondly of you." Adelram could tell right away this man was dangerous somehow.

Marthas gestured his hand to the unknown the robed person their hood was pulled down tightly "This is Sitri." Sitri lifted their hood slightly Adelram could tell that she is a woman and she had fair skin. Well to his eyes she is a woman but something felt off looking at her made him feel uncomfortable. He did not like it she smiled it sent a shiver down his spine.

Marthas frowned "Now, Now Sitri you promised to only do it to people in battle." She bent her head down slightly her voice still did not break the feeling it made it worse "Apologies, my lord. I only get to talk to you and Asriel after all."

Adelram raised his eyebrow at Marthas "Where did you acquire both of these "helpers"?" Marthas chuckled "Does it matter? These two have told me they walked the realm of slaanesh and returned. They came to us one day somehow getting past the ritual." Adelram narrowed his eyes "You trust them?" Marthas held his chin "I trust they are doing the will of the dark prince."

Adelram then looked to the map "What are you looking at the map for?" Marthas placed the map in front of him it was the map of the city. Marthas pointed at two circles "These circles drawn on the map show the location and control areas of the death guard and Sebastian's forces. The death guard are the green circle and Sebastian is the purple circle."

Marthas pointed his finger at the middle circle "This is the imperial control zone. They have two gates north and south. There is a wall built around the inner city. The wall is nothing compared to what we faced on cadia. It looks far more make shift and they have several squads of guardsmen 24/7 watching and patrolling the edge of their control zone."

Marthas moved his hand down the map to a small black circle "This is us. We are based south of the inner city. Sebastian is based at the east and Deathguard to the west. Death guard, Imperials and Sebastian's forces clash mainly at the north gate of the city."

Adelram pointed to the empty north "So there is nothing there save the clashing forces?" Marthas nodded "To my knowledge yes. There is nothing else there." Marthas picked up the map and stood up he placed the map on an empty space on the bookshelf. Marthas sat back down again but this time he took Eligos from the wall before he did so.

He rested it upwards the purple mist bellowing out of his weapon. Marthas smiled to Adelram it was unnatural seeing Marthas smile and when he did so he had someting to say he said "So Asriel told you to see me?" Adelram nodded "To get used to the brands. I-" Naberius coughed interrupting Adelram to his annoyance he even spoke over him "We could do it that way. Yet will that truly gain the results you want Lord Adelram?"

Adelram turned to Naberius his voice firm "Don't interrupt me." Naberius hackles "Apologies. I was just wondering if you want to do it the easy way? Would it get you what you desire? " Sitri laughed it unsettled Adelram, to him Sitri speaking a whole sentence made him feel unbalanced? That was the only word he could put to it "I agree with Naberius our lord needs... full immersion. My lord do you want to embrace the dark prince fully? You still reek of the maggot."

Adelram frowned slightly he raised one of his hands slightly it glowed "Marthas do I need to tell you to reprimand your servants for speaking to me that way?" Marthas shrugged "I agree with them. They are not my servants Adelram but my helpers." Adelram could see both were unfazed by the power he was displaying Naberius lifted his hood slightly he gazed directly at him. His face looked slightly aged, his skin looked tanned in colouration. Naberius had a grey beard his eyes. His eyes looked at him like he was a child they were blue like Asriel's. Adelram knew for sure in that moment these two were truly dangerous he lowered his hand.

Naberius smiled "Why are you upset my lord? You know what your desire is? Don't you want to achieve it?" Adelram ground his teeth slightly "Do you always talk in rhetoric Naberius? What are you trying to convince me of?" Marthas chuckled "Now Lord Adelram. Naberius is just looking out for your best interests." Adelram scowled "Both of your helpers are annoying Marthas." Marthas shrugged "What he is trying to say is how far will you go to achieve what you want? Before you said you are ready to follow the path of your desire but are you truly ready? As Sitri said you still smell of the plague god."

Sitri laughed again as she leaned her body on his lap slightly to Adelram's anger his normal reaction would be to violently push her off yet he could not when he looked at her face. In his heart she looked like a woman but in his head. In his head he had no idea what to think. she began speaking slowly "He needs full immersion..."

Adelram grew frustrated "Speak plainly! I have no interest in the plague god anymore. I am ready to grow further so I can take back whats mine." Marthas shook his head "More words. Tell me Adelram. Give me an answer do you want to put your desire to the test?"
Adelram looked to his legs now healed "I am." Marthas smiled again "Very well. Listen to the song with your mind and soul. Close your eyes." Sitri leaned back and placed her hood back on.

Adelram closed his eyes focusing on the song coming from Marthas's daemon weapon. Adelram felt himself being drawn in by the music. It was pleasant soon underneath the song he heard the lament and screams of the dying. The sound was similar to his time moving through the warp.
Adelram soon began to hear the buzzing of flies whispering in his mind "No! It's a lie! Don't listen!" Adelram bit his lip "I want to listen. I have to." The buzzing continued "Why? For someone who does not care? Someone who does not even treat you as family?"

Adelram clenched his hands he shouted "He is my father!" The buzz intensified "A father who has battered and abused his child! For what!" The buzzing died down "Don't embrace these lies. Look to Ivan. He could of been saved but he chose it. He chose it and it destroyed him. Even when I tried to help him."

Adelram grew surprised the song was drifting from his mind "You spoke to Ivan?" The buzzing almost became soothing. Far more Soothing than the song "Yes. I tried to save him from the serpent. She dangled his desires in front of him and he took it. He wanted to get to Cadia but did he ever reach it?" Adelram grew slack "When did you talk to him?" The buzzing started to consume his whole being "That does not matter."

Adelram pushed back slightly "Why does it not matter? When did you talk to him?" Soon the song started to come back the buzzing tried to push the song from his mind "It does not. What matters is that I am trying to save a child." Adelram grew frustrated "Speak plainly." The buzzing reverberated in his ears "You are being troublesome! Some children don't know what is best for them! Listen! I seek to deliver you!" The song began increasing in volume Adelram pushed the buzzing in his mind back "If you care speak the truth! or do you also lie to your children?"

The buzzing grew quiet for a moment and started up again "I spoke to him when you tormented him. I gave him a way out." Adelram pressed further "What was the way out? What did you entice Ivan with? What did you show him?" The buzzing was now like a whisper "I tried to save him." The music the weaving of the song and the screams reached a crescendo Adelram focused on the music to let the song fill him as he said "I don't need you. It's clear what would of happened to me if Ivan took your offer." As Adelram said this there was a gurgled scream as the flies dissipated.

Adelram opened his eyes and he was on the ground he looked around. He found himself in the city on his chest there is a communication device, a bolt pistol, combat knife and a small note. He is still wearing his robes. He wore no shoes either. Adelram held the communication device a voice came through it the voice belonged to Marthas. He spoke in a flat tone "Well done my lord. You passed the first part still that is not enough. To lead us you must be above everyone else. You must be the pinnacle everyone reaches for. They must Admire you and bow when you walk past." Adelram ground his teeth and shouted into the device "Marthas! What are you playing at!"

Adelram could hear a small sigh through the speaker "My lord. You still have much to learn and experience. For example you did not reach that fortress wall with your own power. You put your life on the line but in the end you used a crutch the experience was stifled with that. None of the warband even respected what you did. There was talk of mutiny after you took it."

Adelram grew silent he spoke into the device "I don't need their Admiration." Marthas retorted "You do. If you are to lead us. If the warband follows Sebastian they will grow lax and weak their excess will be small. Their achievements will be small. Your desire should be the warbands desire." Adelram thought on what he said "Why would the warband want what I want? They would most likely scoff and call it childish."

Marthas chuckled "How would you know if you don't tell them? Are you Afraid? Why should you be afraid to reveal your excess? I can't think of anything more wonderful to grab the attention of a primarch himself. The sort of war and suffering we need to bring upon our enemies to do such a thing." Marthas' words stabbed straight into his hearts, Marthas continued "Asriel provided the first tool the brands. I have provided other tools to help you. As Sitri said you must immerse yourself enjoy the journey I have provided for you."

Adelram scowled "All you gave me is a combat knife and bolt pistol! I also don't have my power armour!" after a minute Marthas voice came through "And? I had to give you some handicaps since you are also a pskyer. The note I left you is from Asriel those words will help you on your pilgrimage they hold wisdom. Don't forget I am also putting my life on the line for this since I have no idea how Asriel will react once I tell him what I have done to you. He grew upset when I told him of my pilgrimage."

Adelram scoffed "Pilgrimage!? Really now? Also you plotted this yourself!" Marthas sighed "It is a pilgrimage and yes Asriel had something else in mind but that's not enough we need more I know you can do more." Adelram looked to his surroundings the area has seen great battles if he breathed in the scent of the place he could smell decay and blood. Marthas voice came through the device again "I dropped you off to the north of the city inner city. Where all three sides are hotly contested. You must return here in a month. If you are not here in a month I will presume you are dead."

Adelram laughed slightly "I could take my time you know? Why the time limit?" Marthas voice came through again this time Adelram could tell a tinge of anger lined his voice "Do you think we have an infinite amount of time!? Everyday Sebastian grip grows tighter! Who knows if the Death guard may destroy the warband! You have a month. If you don't come back in a month I will kill everyone here. I will kill Jedrick, Silas, Isira and I will face Asriel. I will destroy everything that we have built if you don't make it back here in a month. Do you desire to be a dull blade forever?" Marthas voice became firm as he said his next few words "Adapt or Die. Find your true shape or be the weakling leader your brothers think you are. Those are your options."

The communication device died after Marthas' last words. Adelram threw the device in anger he stood up the bolt pistol and combat knife fell to the floor along with the note. He picked up all three. As he held the items he understood finally why Marthas showed him the map. He could picture the location of the black circle. He looked to the note he wondered how Asriel's words will help.

It read


My lord, I know you will struggle to use the brands and at times I know you will get frustrated. so I will say thus look up to the sky. The scar the mark of the gods themselves. Gaze at it. Let it fill you. Listen to the noise and suffering of billions of souls and understand. Things that were impossible in the past is now possible.


Adelram folded the note and placed it in the robe pocket. It did not tell him much but Marthas said it will help. He had a month, recalling the sensation and sight of Marthas' soul he knows full well he could back up his threat. Even now Adelram is realising to his shock that possibly Marthas could kill Sebastian with ease.

Adelram tried hard to smile as he said "Very well. I shall do this pilgrimage of yours Marthas."

Lord General Jacob watched the summary executions taking place, Commissar Liam committing the act had their families bought to the execution so the deserters know how they failed their family and the imperium itself. Jacob also guessed this is also a lesson to the family itself as well considering they will soon be conscripted. The letters have already been sent to their apartments.

They stood in the noble plaza the most centre point of the city. He was stationed here a few years ago due to his predocessar dying.
This position became known to be cursed by some of the staff since every few years the Lord General dies in their room sitting on their chair. After being through cadia nothing could scare him. He told himself when he came here that he would not fail again. He lead the 102nd. Due to the time taken to win the war they had to pull conscripts from the civilians.

He could see nobles from the balcony watching what was about to happen like a show. It disgusted him. The Adminstratum has already picked out three noble houses that would possibly take over after the war is won.

He looked at Liam pacing shouting at the conscripts who abandoned their positions. Calling them cowards and traitors to the emperor. As Jacob closed his eyes he could see Cadia as it was cracked asunder and Liam was right they have no need for cowards or people who would break. The deserters were lined up against a bloodied wall stripped of their uniform and chained. As they were escorted to the wall the chains were attached to small hooks in the ground they were in rags.

Jacob could see their families being held back by cadians he could tell by their faces they agreed with what was happening. None of the people here have watched their homeworld die and many had families in the past that fought on cadia. Liam began his work 10 deserters he placed a bolt shell in the heads of each the chains holding them in place. As he reached the last one the deserter cried out "I just wanted to check on my family! You killed my wife! You took my son! I just wanted to make sure my daughter was okay!" As he said this out of the crowd he could see a young woman trying to push past tears in her eyes. Jacob could see she was holding an instrument.

Liam shouted at the deserter "Quiet! If you truly cared you would have remained at your post! You would of stuck to your duty to the emperor!" Liam raised his bolt pistol the deserter did not even get to cry out before Liam shot him in the head.

When the execution was done the soldiers escorted the grieving family members away back to the civilian area.

Servitors began clearing away the dead bodies. Jacob scratched his beard he had a scar down his right eye due to the war on cadia his right arm and left leg were also bionic. His beard and hair had grey streaks. His "friend" has set him up with the arm and leg along with the rejuvination treatments. His words were that in this age of darkness they needed men like him. Jacob shrugged wondering what his friend saw in him they have worked together many times in the past.

Liam approached him and holstered his bolt pistol "Lord General the three are waiting in the main headquarters." Jacob sighed "I am surprised they turned up. I wish to go over the map of the city."

Jacob could see Liam wanted to ask something "What is it?" Liam nodded "You wish to go over the map again?" Jacob turned to the large noble house being used as the imperial guards main base one of the three donated it to them "Yes. I am still convinced there is more going on in this war."

Jacob walked to the building, Liam followed behind him "I have been here for 3 years. Something or someone is keeping us from getting any gains in territory." Liam responded "We are battling two heretical forces. What you have done so far is impressive com-" Jacob interjected "Compared to my predecessors? They avoided looking at the whole picture so they died. I won't make that mistake."

They reached the main base as walked in people were at radio desks directing squads and compliing reports. Jacob and Liam entered the main chamber. The three representives stood waiting in front of a large map. Two were female one was male. The females unsettled him the most, Lady Isabella Glodmar she had long black hair and a dress gown clearly displaying the form of her body. Her face is the picture form of beauty.
The second he had no idea how she looked save she had somewhat pale skin she wore a black dress along with a black veil. Her name is Velisha Marfire

Finally the noble who donated this base to them when they arrived. Jacob is sure he is going to get the position considering he has been giving a large amount of his wealth to aid the war effort his name is Uriah Boaz. Uriah to Jacob looked quite plain he had short blonde hair and blue eyes. His clothes were far more modest compared to the other two.

Jacob walked to his end of the table Liam stood next to him Jacob gestured to the map "I came here to discuss our position." Isabella scoffed "Again Lord General? We have been here several times we know what is at stake." Velisha nodded in agreement "Indeed. We are doing all we can to help you."

Jacob creased his brow he was about to speak until Uriah interjected "I don't think the Lord General deserves such talk considering his men are dying for us. He does not even have to let us be here. I think if he called us it's for a good reason."

Jacob looked at Uriah he knew he was reliable and when this conflict finally ends he would put in a recommendation for him to take over. Jacob pointed to the map "Now. We have a good idea roughly how much the heretics control. The issue is that no one has gained anything."

Uriah raised his eyebrow "They have not gained anything? What do you mean?" Jacob pointed to the control zones of the heretics "Going by our intel they have not expanded. Not even once since the conflict has started. This war has lasted almost 30 years perhaps even longer going by our information. Still In our case the same as occurred I looked over old reports we have losses in areas where we were planning to make forward bases. Expand our control."

Isabella pulled out a small mirror and began to do her make up "I am quite sure that it is the heretics doing this." Jacob shook his head "That's what I thought at first. Yet the heretics have not expanded as I said before. Even supposedly if they killed our men why have they not taken the area for themselves? Unless someone is stopping them."

Velisha hackled "What are you trying to say? That we are dealing with another enemy?" Jacob nodded "Indeed. I believe there is an unknown element in this war. This will go with why I am calling you here." Uriah folded his arms "What you are about to say is going to effect us I assume?"
Jacob smiled he is indeed a smart man he said to himself, Jacob paced "I am setting the curfew time to be 3 hours earlier. So everyone including nobles should be in doors by 18:00 hours." Isabella protested "Why!? What reason do you have to impose it on us? I can understand placing the rule on the civilian area! You can't do this!"

Jacob stopped and stared Isabella down "I aim to win this war and this is a part of it. I am quite sure filing a complaint to the right person might just.." Isabella frowned ruining her features "Is that a threat? Fine. Very well." Uriah sighed "There is no reason to protest. He has a job to do. We are not the ones putting our lives on the line."

Jacob raised his eyebrow again Uriah seemed far to reliable and understanding. Perhaps being surrounded by selfish nobles has jaded his view but Uriah was a breath of fresh air. Jacob sighed "Indeed. I am doing this to win the war. Now the meeting is adjured." The three nobles left the room.

Jacob looked at the map again he could tell Liam wanted to say something "What's on your mind?" Liam nodded "I hope lord general you haven't been listening to the conscripts too much." Jacob looked at Liam "No it's just common sense. Something is keeping us from getting ahead. I just don't know what."

Liam looked to the door "So increasing the curfew was for what reason? How would that help us? All we have is disgruntled nobles." Jacob pointed to two circles that he deemed to be controlled by the heretics "I think someone is helping them along with an unknown element."
Liam narrowed his eyes "The nobles are possibly corrupted?" Jacob stroked his chin "Posssibly. I just know not to take any risks. I am going to contact a friend see if he knows anything." Liam raised his eyebrow "A friend?" Jacob smiled showing his white teeth.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 01:13:38


Post by: shinros


Adelram is going to have such a great time... A wonderful time!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 03:30:05


Post by: lliu


Hehehe


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 05:32:22


Post by: shinros


Chapter 13


entry 11011

At times I watch the cadians training in the distance, in this instance training conscripts many do not handle it well. Many are punished and when it finally comes to their duties many die. Some conscripts take to their new role with a zeal and eventually put into proper squads. Doing such things confuses me still, they are being used as a simple cog. A tiny cog in a monolithic machine that would not care if they died or give anything to them if they succeed.

Still it was difficult to gain eyes within the cadians. Since the destruction of their home their focus has become unreal. Even so some crack, especially the conscripts.

I smuggle myself into the inner city via resource trucks. Now most would wonder how I hide? A mix of concealing myself within the shadows at the back of the truck and ensuring those who inspect said trucks are in my pocket.


When I get within I check my contacts and perhaps gain new ones. The situation in the civilian area is not exactly... pleasant. Muggings and crime is rife. The cadians are focused on the war and largely let the civilians do what they please. It's clear they look down upon them.

Camila held her violin she played a song. A song her family used to enjoy, she is in the plaza of the civilian area she tried not to cry. Her Mother said to never cry when preforming as always people would gather around her to listen. Her mother got her the violin for her birthday once and she took to practising ever since. Still Some would say her music is the little light they have to help them go about their day she never gave thought to how good she is. Part of her actually felt she played badly. Camila finished the last note.

She looked upon the crowd who were smiling and then they began clapping, some even had tears in their eyes they even called out "Please play tomorrow!". Others say her talent came from the emperor himself. Camila tried to smile she bowed and rose as she rose she thought she saw an unfamiliar face in the crowd.

They wore a strange black coat along with a hood and scarf. They walked away she wondered why her eyes came towards that person. As she moved through the crowd people handed her ration packs or even on a rare occasion clothing.

She left the crowd and began walking home to her apartment. She is now the only tenant. Her mother was killed in a purge. Her brother Leo was taken away by the soldiers he was only 14 at the time. Many young children were taken.

Finally her father was executed. Thinking on this she tried not to cry she is 23 she has her talent. Perhaps she could figure something out when the war ended. As she walked she turned down a narrow path a short cut to her apartment block.

Soon two men stood in front of her and a Man from behind called out "Now where are you going little missy?" Camila blood ran cold "I am ju-just going home!" The two men in front of her laughed one said "Hey how about we take her violin! We might be able to get something out of it!" The second agreed "Yeah! Might even get some ration packs." Camila turned to the man behind her "I can give you the ration packs I have! Please I need my Violin! It's all I have left!" The man she turned to is bald he had a large frame he said "No. No. We want everything and maybe... we might let you go." The two men behind her laughed.

Camila held her violin tightly Camila could hear the drawing of knives. Camila lips quivered in fear the bald man walked forward slowly Camila cried out "Someone help me please!" As she said this a man jumped down he rose slowly. Looking at him it was the person in the crowd he turned to her and smiled for some reason it put her at ease.

The bald man glowered "Mind your business! This woman is ours!" He pointed to the two men "Kill this fool!" Camila turned the two men rushing at them she looked up to the hooded man in a flash his hands moved to his belt and in a swift motion his hand flicked out like he threw something. The two men squealed in pain and dropped to the ground a knife lodged in both their heads.

The hooded man turned to the bald mugger. Camila also looked at him she could see he began sweating he stepped back a few steps he turned and ran for his life. Again the man moved his hand to his belt and threw another knife landing in the back of the bald man's head he screamed in pain as he tumbled forward. Camila watched the man breath a sigh as he said "Are you okay?"

Camila blinked "Are you with the army?" He did not wear a uniform, but how he killed those criminals it was not normal. The man smiled "No. Just a bystander who could not let a group of foolish men ruin wonderful talent." Camila could see he looked about the same age as her he had dark skin and oddly blue eyes.

Camila looked to her Violin "Wonderful talent? I am not that good." The man smiled again "Nonsense! Oddly enough music does not do all that much for me but when I heard you play. The sheer emotion you put in..." Camila felt a small amount of confidence at his words "Thank you. By the way I have an apartment. We could talk more there." The hooded man folded his arms "You trust me that readily?" Camila nodded "I don't know why. I oddly feel safe with you around."

The man shrugged "Very well. By the way my name is Asriel." Camila smiled "That's a very nice name." Asriel smiled back to her "I value it greatly. Someone important gave it to me." Camila raised her eyebrow "Gave it to you?" Asriel nodded "we could discuss this as your place." Camila pointed down the road "It's close by. I was just taking a short cut."

Camila watched Asriel pull the knives out of the dead men he cleaned them with a cloth before placing it back on his belt. Camila still wondered who he was still she could not shake the feeling she would be safe if she stuck close to him.

Camila entered her apartment. She held the door open for Asriel, he walked in and looked around. She could see out of the window it was now dusk, the curfew is most likely in effect. As she stepped forward she saw a letter on the floor. Most likely it was tucked underneath the door since her apartment door does not have a letter box.

She picked it up and placed it on the table. She looked at the empty double bed and the bed of her little brother. She tried not to cry again. Camila gestured to the table "Why don't we sit down?" Camila sat at the table, Asriel sat at the other end she placed her Violin on the table and looked at the letter.

Looking at the letter filled her with dread for some reason, looking to Asriel for some reason it felt like he is waiting for something. Camila smiled softly "Do you mind if I just take a look at the letter before we talk?" Asriel shook his head "No. I am the guest do as you will." Camila opened the letter. Her mouth hanged slightly.

Dear citizen

You have been chosen to enter the army of the glorious god emperor. The Astra Militarum, please report to the designated location detailed in the letter. Due note that to refuse this excellent opportunity is to sin before the god emperor. Please come to the area within 48 hours if you do not the soldiers of the god emperor shall visit your premises.

Below the letter Camila could see a map pointing out where to go. Finally tears ran down her face as Asriel said "What's the matter?" Camila tried to smile "I am joining the army of the emperor. To defend this world." Camila could see concern on Asriel's face as he said "Are you happy with that?"

Camila did not know what to think. Her father was killed as a traitor just for trying to see her yet she has always been told this is a great honour. Perhaps even if she dies maybe she could see her father again? Perhaps even her mother.

She said a small prayer "God-emperor please look out for my little brother Leo." Asriel frowned she could see he grew slightly upset "What's the matter Asriel?" Asriel shook his head "You are better with a Violin than with a gun." Camila bit her lip "Yet now I have a duty."

Asriel clenched his hands "Why do you say that? You want to play your Violin. That's what you are good at." Camila looked away "What choice do I have?" Asriel narrowed his eyes "There is always a choice." Camila began wondering why she let almost a complete stranger and a killer into her home. Yet she cannot break the feeling that for some reason she could trust him.

She has only known him for a few hours "I wish the angel would end this war." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Angel?" Camila nodded "My mother told me stories about him. He destroyed all the evil within the city even the nobles were not safe." Camila watched Asriel look at the window as he said "So do you think this Angel is good or evil?"

Camila looked to her violin "Good. My mother said he was sent by the emperor." Asriel then looked to her his face is now serious it scared her slightly what he said scared her even more "There is only evil in the galaxy. No good. Yet we only have one gift that the imperium tries to beat out of us which is choice." Camila could not believe what she is hearing what he just said. What he is saying is..

Yet his confidence in his words drew her in for some reason "So what would you have me do Asriel?" His face was now more calm as he said "You could come with me." Camila mouth went dry "Come with you where?" Asriel smiled gently "To a place that would value your talent. Far more than the people outside." To Camila his smile was so affectionate far more than the smiles she has ever received by the crowd.

Part of her felt that taking his offer would be a mistake. A mistake she could never take back she looked at the letter again she saw a flash of her father's death "I have.. a duty. If I could do my part perhaps end the war no one else will suffer." Asriel frowned at her response "Suffering is constant. War is constant that is the eternal state of the galaxy Camila. You choosing to follow that letter. You will be just added to that cycle."

Camila looked at Asriel searching his face he did not seem angry just disappointed "I have no idea about the galaxy. Never left the world, but if I could do my small part.." Asriel laughed softly "Very well. You made your choice still." Asriel rose from the table he walked to her side, she turned slightly to him "You can stay the night. it's almost curfew." Asriel shook his head "Don't worry. I can handle myself." He gave a similar smile to before "I want to give you something. For good luck perhaps you might have a chance."

Camila raised her eyebrow "A chance?" Asriel then put a small gold coin on the table it has a wing holding a small jewel. Camila looked at it "What is it?" Asriel looked away to the door "A possible life line. I still believe your talent would be better served for my family. Still you made your choice."

Asriel walked to the door "Please be careful Camila." Asriel smiled one more time before leaving. Camila looked at the coin she picked it up it was warm to touch. Holding it comforted her for some reason but also made her feel unsure. While holding the letter she had to admit her blood ran cold slightly. She became scared.

Camila folded the letter and put it into her pocket.

Uriah was sleeping in his bedroom yet he could not sleep. The fact of the news of the unknown element in the war. It's clear to him that the Lord Commander set the Curfew time on the nobles in order to control their movements more. He had to be careful that he does not get caught unaware since the other houses might twist certain information to denounce him as a heretic.

Uriah felt a draft in his room he was sure he closed the window before bed. He got up it was night time he closed the window in annoyance. He turned to see a man sitting at the small table in his room in front of his Regicide board. Uriah was about to call out for guards until the man interjected his voice almost a whisper yet Uriah heard it word by word "If you call out. You will die. Don't bother. I came here to talk Uriah."

Uriah closed his mouth he wondered how did this person know his name the man gestured for him to sit in front of him. Uriah sat down he looked at the man's face it is a skull or a helmet made out of one. He wore a small jacket with combat trousers the hood seemed to be a part of the scarf.
Uriah looked at the man and said "What should I call you?" The man looked at the board and said "Call me Skull Face. Someone called me that before I killed him." Uriah mumbled "Skull Face..." Uriah folded his arms "What do you want." Skull face chuckled "To talk." Uriah narrowed his eyes "About what?" Skull face gestured to the regicide board "How about we talk over a game?" Uriah shook his head "Fine."

Skull face readied the board in silence they began, Uriah moved his first piece forward as he said "So what do you want to talk about?" Skull face moved another "About your payment." Uriah frowned "I don't owe anything to anyone. I never worked with criminals or loan sharks." Skull face shook his head "Not that kind of payment. Have you ever questioned why your family prospered despite the vices they displayed?"

Uriah thought on it the game continued as he is thinking "I did think about it. It was odd but perhaps I am blessed by the god emperor skull face." Skull face took one of his pieces with a pawn Uriah frowned "I use my wealth to better everyone around me." Skull face gave a small laugh "So you can feel better about yourself." Uriah scoffed "I have no idea what you are talking about. It's the duty of the nobility to reach down to the downtrodden."

Skull face grew silent they coutinued their game, after a few minutes Uriah grew frustrated Skull face is using the pawns to easily take out his important pieces. He then uses his greater and more important piececs to support the pawns preventing him from moving in. Uriah kissed his teeth "So what kind of payment are you collecting?" Skull face moved another piece "You can blame your mother. I require something from you."
Uriah grew confused "What does my mother have to do with this?" Skull face placed his foot on his knee and casually sat back in the chair "She made an agreement with me. I have come to collect." Uriah sighed in annoyance "What do you want information? Money?" Skull face did not answer his question.

The game eventually ended. Looking at the board he had him utterly surrounded he had a great number of pawns left "I am surprised you play like this considering you are a heretic." Uriah pushed the point forward he most likely guessed he might be a part of the unknown element. Skull face picked up a pawn piece "Everything is important. Even the smallest piece a small thing can benefit my lord and my family greatly."

Uriah stroked his chin "So you are a heretic." Skull face shrugged "I don't really care what you call me. The payment I require from you is that you join my family and serve my lord." Uriah tried hard not to shout he kept his voice firm "I will not serve heretics." Skull face placed the piece down and shook his head "You are a heretic already. Considering your family made a bargain with a heretic."

Uriah screwed his face into disgust he tried to keep his voice low "That was my mother in her foolishness! I have nothing to do with that!" Skull face stood up "Does not matter. The bargain touched your entire family line. You have reaped the benefits from it." Uriah rose "So what? Are you going to kidnap me?"

Skull face rose from the chair and walked to the window and turned his head slightly "No. Not yet I am just giving you a... warning or some advice. When my lord comes and shakes the very foundation of this city. When he comes here with the screams and suffering of the minions of the emperor in the wind be ready to bend the knee."

Uriah narrowed his eyes "Why are you so sure that you will win?" Skull face looked foward "I have set the stage to make it so." A gust of wind blew into his face forcing Uriah to cover his eyes he looked to the window skull face vanished.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 06:02:52


Post by: shinros


Chapter 14

Entry 11020

I watch the woman play in the plaza. I never was interested in music and most things don't move my heart. The only times I ever felt happy or any sense of pleasure was either when I am killing or serving my lord(Or his interests) in the past. Yet oddly listening to her play makes me feel happy and even if Meliva says nothing I can tell she likes it also.

I find myself watching her every time I tend to go to the inner city. I wonder what everyone in the compound will think of it? The fact that it could effect someone like me. She has a wonderful talent something that should not be wasted here. Wasted on the imperials who would not truly grasp how talented she is.


It's been a week and a half of training Camila could not keep up she is out of breath running around the camp. They were near the north entrance of the city. Sergeant Mariana drove everyone in her group hard. They were a female only squad.The male and female conscripts are separated in order to keep them focused. Mariana always made it clear that cadians could handle this training with ease.

Camila dropped to the ground, Camila could hear footsteps she looked up in front of her. It is Mariana she had a large scar across her face and her black hair is extremely short. She made it clear her family served on cadia and that she fought against heretics and horrors in the galaxy since it is her duty to do so.

Two female cadian solders stood at her right and left Mariana shouted at her "Get up worm! You are part of the 102nd! Heretics won't wait for you!" Camila struggled to her feet she coughed Mariana turned away Camila said "I am so.. tired." Mariana stopped and turned back "What did you say?" Camila stood up right "Nothing sir." Mariana walked towards her and shouted in her face "Are you lying to your Sergeant !? What did you say soldier!?" Camila's lips trembled "I said I am tired sir."

Camila cried slightly. Mariana spat to the ground "You people have no idea..." Camila watched Marinana's hand moving back and with a large amount of force she punched Camila in the gut. Camila had the wind knocked out of her she dropped to her knee's she coughed. Mariana walked around her "You have such nice brown hair." Mariana undid the knot holding her hair it flowed to her shoulders.

Mariana gestured to the two cadian soldiers "You two hold her." They walked over and held her in place Mariana drew her combat knife she began roughly cutting her hair Camila tried to struggle the soldiers held her place. Mariana threw her hair to the ground, Camila could not help it the tears began rolling down her face like a waterfall. Mariana walked in front of her and knelt down.

Mariana shouted "Look at me!" Camila raised her face covered in tears snot going down her nose Mariana eyes burrowed into her "You are going to run 10 more laps around camp. Each time you stop I am going to have these two pick you up and then I am going to punch you in the gut again! Do you understand me soldier!?" Camila continued crying her voice a squeak "Yes sir.." Mariana shouted "I can't hear you!" Camila shouted "Yes sir!"

Mariana stood up and walked away. Camila got up slowly she placed her hand in her pocket she felt the coin Asriel gave her. She removed her hand from her pocket and continued to run.

As she got to the 9th lap she could see Mariana in discussion with a superior she is saluting as he spoke she called their squad to the centre of the camp after he left. Camila ran over. Mariana shouted "Line up!"

Camila and the rest of her squad lined up and saluted. Mariana walked the line "We have a mission to support in securing a possible foward base. Our comrades in arms have been attacked. We will be taking a chimera. Everyone gear up!" Everyone rushed to their tents and suited up. Camila is in her tent she opened the chest in her tent containing her flak armour and lasgun.

She left the violin in her apartment. She said to herself one day when the war is over she might return for it. Carmila reached into her pocket and pulled out the coin for some reason looking at it calmed her down. She stuffed the coin in her pocket, Asriel said it might be a possible life line she had no idea what he meant still she felt that it might be good luck to keep it on her.

Camila suited up and lined up back with her squad. Mariana is now holding a chainsword and las pistol along with wearing her helmet. She pointed with her chainsword to the north gate "Our Chimera is at the gate. Get moving everyone!"

They marched to the gate there were 12 of them in total. Another woman marched next to Camila she looked older than her she guess that she looked in her forties. She gave her a smile "My name Alba. I saw what our Sergeant did." Camila smiled back "It's okay. I mean she has a job to do as do we." Alba shook her head in sadness "You look so young and beautiful. My daughter was about your age." Camila surprised said "Where is she?"

Alba grew sad "She was conscripted. I was told the heretics killed her. So I decided to join. To do my part." Camila frowned "I am sorry. My family is largely gone also." Alba smiled "At least we are doing the work of the emperor to drive them off world." Camila nodded "Yes we have a duty don't we?" Alba gently smiled and whispered "When we get back I can help you fix your hair." To Camila talking to Alba reminded her of her dead mother she nodded in thanks.

They soon reached the north gate. Camila looked at the vehicle in awe, Mariana shouted "Another gawking get on!" One by one they hopped unto the vehicle. Camila held her lasgun tightly she looked around the vehicle as it began to move some looked nervous others did not give away what they were feeling. Camila looked to Alba who is praying, Camila decided to pray also.

The drive was bumpy and it lasted for what felt like an age to Camila. The vehicle stopped the driver called out to Mariana "Sir. There is only a single person there." Mariana got up and walked to the driver "What do you mean a single person?" The driver turned to her he said "A large person wearing a black robe surrounded by dead guardsmen."

Camila watched Mariana walk to the middle she shouted "We have a single heretic outside! Don't underestimate them! We will move with caution! Everyone out of the Vehicle!" The door opened everyone got out. Mariana is at the head of the squad.

Camila looked around burnt tents, bodies everywhere the stench of blood, fire and oddly perfume is in the air. Camila tried hard not to heave. Mariana ordered "Eyes forward! Advance on the heretic!" They approached slowly in the middle of the makeshift camp a Large man stood in a dirty black robe. He wore a utility belt around his waist that held a blade and a large pistol.

Camila could see his feet looked bloodied surrounded by dead imperial guardsmen he turned towards them. His black hood obscuring his face. Camila heard a voice piercing her mind the voice caressed her mind gently she is looking at a man yet the voice held no distinct gender she quivered as the voice said "More? They sent more? Surrender to me and you will live." Mariana held her head "Ignore it! Fire at will!" At her command Camila tried to steady herself to focus. Everyone in her squad tried to do the same.

The chimera trained it's gun on the lone heretic. The heretic sighed "his" voice came into her mind again "You see the dead yet you advance. Very well." Camila watched the air around the heretic ripple as Mariana shouted "Fire!" Camila pressed the trigger a red light surging forwards along with the fire of the Chimera.

To Camila's shock the lasers diverted into a different direction as they reached the Heretic, some shots crashed against a strange purple energy field. A dirge of words spilled from the heretic's mouth Camila could not understand a word but it threw her off balance. She could not focus.

She watched small purple energy balls surrond the heretic the smell of the air changed it smelt like a mix of honey and perfume. Several of the balls shot foward crashing into the chimera. It crackled with purple energy and suddenly it exploded launching Camila and her squad foward.
Camila's ears were ringing she tried to get up everything is blurry. The heretic in her blurry vision is now charging at them some raised guns but as he got close they froze his combat knife flicked out trailing with purple flame he cut the throats of anyone in the vicinity of him. He moved with such speed Camila's eyes could not keep up.

Camila readied her gun again she fired her shot crashed against the strange energy field again. Moriana charged shouting "For the emperor!" The heretic laughed his voice filling her mind again "What nonsense have you filled their heads with? These conscripts are simply lambs to the slaughter." Moriana shouted "Shut up!" She swung her blade wildly Camila could tell in close proximity to the heretic she is struggling to focus her strikes are slow. To Camila it seemed like Mariana did not wish to strike him.

The heretic caught her arm with his free hand and broke it, Moriana screamed, the heretic laughed "Scream more! Scream more for me!" The heretic let go of Moriana she moved back as she gripped her broken arm. The heretic sheathed his knife and walked forward he summoned more purple bolts they launched themselves at Camila's squad mates. One bolt hurtled towards her Camila ran and jumped out of the way.

Many were still on the ground due to the explosion. Camila looked around on the ground as bolts crashed into her squadmates they screamed. It was a horrific sort of scream that would burn into your mind forever, Moriana looked around she grit her teeth as she said "More will come monster. More will come to end you heretic!"

The heretic looked down at her he leaned down and lifted his hood slightly "Is that what you still think of me Moriana?" Camila could see her lips quivering "I-I-" The heretic said "I what? Speak clearly." Camila hated the fact he spoke into their minds it did not feel right. It made her think strange and disgusting thoughts.

Moriana cried, to Camila's shook as she said "I can't. So.. beautiful" The heretic held her head in both hands as it was consumed in purple flames she screamed. The heretic laughed "Such music..." Camila slowly rose to her feet her hands were shaking. Alba ran in front of her holding her gun "Run Camila. You are too young." As Camila Alba said those words flashes of her father appeared in her mind, Camila began crying "I can't."

Alba nodded "I see, so both of us will die for the emperor." Camila looked at the heretic as he removed his hands from Moriana's head, many of Camila's squad who survived the attack by the heretic are running away. Camila held firm with Alba tears still in her eyes as she said "I can't run."
The heretic began slowly walking towards them "Do run. Please it will make it more interesting when I kill you." Alba shouted "Shut up monster! We will kill you in the name of the god emperor!" To Camila shock Alba seems unfazed by the heretic, the heretic ran towards them. Camila could only see his white teeth that horrific and wonderful smile as he came towards them.

Alba and Camila fired their guns the same occurring, their shots crashed against the energy field, Camila kept firing her energy cell dying she kept pushing the trigger. Her heart beating rapidly. The heretic is almost right in front of them, Alba stood in front of her, the heretic simply backhanded her across the face even with the helmet her head twisted and snapped.

Alba crumpled to the ground her face stuck in a fixture of horror. The heretic is now in front of her. Camila now terrified she did not know what to do. She did not want to die, she dropped her gun and tried to walk back. The heretic said softly the voice pressured her mind "Stay here with me." Camila froze, soon a strange musk filled her nostrils she felt her muscles relaxing somewhat.

Camila wanted to move her mind told her to yet her heart said otherwise. The heretic drew his knife, he towered over her. The musk fully enveloping her nose the combat knife moved closely to her eye. She tried to cry out in terror yet she could not.

The knife stopped suddenly, he sheathed the blade and pulled off his hood his or.. her? she is not sure. Still the full vision of the heretic's face blasted her mind. Camila strangely longed for him, his wonderful long flowing white hair. Suddenly the heretic grabbed her in a bear hug.
He sniffed her, Camila could not move she could not handle being this close to him. Just the heretic touching her is too much. It is too much for her body to handle she groaned. She felt his face on her neck sniffing she seized up. He reached down in her pocket as her body went slack. He looked at the gold coin for a few seconds and sniffed it breathing in the scent deeply.

He smiled at her, he spoke with his mouth as he said "You are very interesting and lucky. Do you know that?" Camila could not exactly hear what he said her eyes rolled back not being able to handle being near him due to the sensory overload. She gasped a final groan before fading away.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/08 06:03:25


Post by: shinros


By the way. Our glorious and now fabulous leader was holding back.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/10 00:52:56


Post by: shinros


Chapter 15


Entry 11035

Oddly enough, I have started to notice that largely Jedrick keeps to himself. He seems less boastful for some reason. When he is not training with Silas he is arguing with Marthas about his cult. I had no idea why he seems so upset about it or why he wants to prove it wrong.

Always he says the things that are coming out of Marthas' mouth is garbage. While Marthas retorts that it's necessary and the fact our lord may need his guidance when we find him. When he said this Jedrick oddly grew livid I watched them almost come to blows if Silas did not intervene. One thing I know for sure out of the Astartes Jedrick cares the most for our lord. I have no idea why but.. watching him it's clear to me the he is jealous of Marthas for some reason.

Astartes largely know no fear(As the saying goes) but I found they experience it differently compared to normal people. What I see now how Jedrick is acting is fear. What he fears I have no idea.


Noxus speared his blade into a member of the death guard and twisted, even if they appeared dead it became prudent to ensure that they are dead. Noxus has seen Death Guard ignore heavy injuries that would kill even an Astartes. He looked around to his squad members the champion they all followed his name is Valirak. Noxus hoped that being given the honour of placing the busted helmet on Adelram may of gained him some followers.

Perhaps even the chance to finally break loose from Valirak. Noxus looked to his sword, he could challenge him for his place. He turned in the direction of Valirak he is in discussion with the rest of his squad. Valirak features were aqualine, pristine his looks matched his bladework. His white hair is short and his green eyes when levelled at someone shows how condescending he actually is. Noxus knew that he would not have such a look if he were in Sebastian's presence.

Noxus sighed in annoyance as he said under his breath "I would have no chance." Noxus walked over, Valirak paced clearly annoyed "Sebastian places us near the south where there is barely any fun to be had." Noxus mumbled "He placed us here for a reason." Valirak levelled his eyes on Noxus in annoyance, Noxus remembered that those favoured by the dark prince have acute senses he turned his head away slightly trying not to meet his gaze.

Valirak walked over to Noxus he tapped his deactivated power blade on his chest "Do you have something to say Noxus?" Noxus is still looking away as he said "No. I do not." Valirak gently turned his face towards him "I heard you say that Sebastian placed us here for a reason."
Noxus is glad he that he is wearing a helmet so Valirak could not see what face he is making at the moment. Noxus frowned "Fine I did say that." Valirak's face turned into a scowl "Now. If I want your opinion... I would ask it." Noxus could see his follow squad members snickering their squad numbered 6 in total.

Valirak turned away "Perhaps we might find some humans hiding in the buildings? I hear how many imperial guard conscripts like to desert." Valirak began walking to a nearby building Noxus followed suit with the rest of the squad. Noxus sighed in annoyance it's more likely they would find humans in the buildings to the north not the south.

Sebastian perhaps sent them here as some kind of joke or punishment. Knowing Valirak he must of slighted Sebastian somehow perhaps showing off his looks? Or even how he spoke to him one time? They entered a nearby building, the building looked like it could fall apart. He heard the death guard did a great amount of damage upon the south of the city when they landed.

As they entered a hall in the middle of the room he could see something in the centre of the room. They inspected the centre of the room someone has set up a makeshift camp fire. The materials looked to be burnt recently. Valirak smiled "See. The dark prince is showing us his favour there might be some meat in the building." Noxus could see everyone getting excited, he even had to admit that he felt quite joyful at the prospect.

Valirak gestured for everyone to continue into the building they came upon another hall. There is a door at the end of the room and the room had small pillars. Valirak breathed in "There is someone here." Noxus readied his sword "Really? Where?" Valirak pointed to a pillar. Valirak walked over and looked behind the pillar he pointed at he began laughing.

Noxus watched him walk behind the pillar and pulled someone out. Noxus could see it is a young woman. She had roughly cut brown hair, she had light skin and blue eyes. She is also wearing a torn imperial guard uniform. Noxus wondered how one person could get this far south. Valirak licked his lips "See everyone? Meat." Noxus frowned under his helmet "We can't exactly share one person can we?" Noxus sheathed his blade. Valirak smiled and looked down to the frail woman "You are right. I found her so she is mine."

Noxus watched the woman struggle to no avail. Valirak smiled "She looks so frail for a guardsmen." Valirak turned her around towards him as he said gently "Do you have a name?" The woman looked away, Noxus knew in that instance she made a mistake. Valirak held her face with his hand his features twisted "I asked you a question meat!"

She still refused to answer, Noxus wondered if she had a death wish, Valirak roughly grabbed her hair she squealed in pain. Valirak shouted "You belong to me meat! When I ask you a question! You answer!"

As Valirak said this Noxus heard a voice it unbalanced him slightly the voice sounded familiar to him but it sounded.. different "She belongs to me." Valirak looked around "Who said that! Come out witch!" The doors at the end of the hall opened, Noxus could tell the person is an Astartes they wore a dirty black robe along with a belt holstering a bolt pistol and combat knife.

Yet how he walked did not seem right. His frame seemed slightly slimmer? Something about the Astartes threw Noxus off. Valirak looked at the Astartes "So what are you then? An Exile from the Death Guard?" The hooded Astartes folded his arms as he continued to speak into their minds "No. Also I dislike when my brothers mishandle things that don't belong to them."

Noxus flinched hearing it no him speak made him feel strange things. He did not know how to deal with it. Valirak laughed "Oh who are you then? I am meant you must of annoyed our lord greatly to be stripped of your gear and cast out." Noxus watched the hooded Astartes flash a smile with his white teeth. Noxus looked at how his lips moved his smile is wonderful and terrible at the same time "No, Sebastian thought it was a good idea to have Noxus over there place a busted helmet on my head."

Noxus eyes shot wide he placed his hand on his sword he shouted "It's impossible! Gethus broke your legs! Left you to the death guard!" Valirak looked to him and back to the hooded Astartes he smiled "Oh somehow he is alive. We are truly favoured think of what Sebastian will give us if we bring his head?" Valirak threw the woman to the side she shouted in pain as she hit the ground.

Valirak waved everyone back "I can handle our pathetic old lord. Everyone stay back." Noxus partly could not believe it was Adelram. His voice is now different, How he walked even standing. Adelram folded his arms "I don't want to kill my brothers. Bow to me and I will let you live." Valirak scoffed "Weak as always. I wonder why we ever followed you." Valirak drew his power sword and activated it.

Adelram's voice pierced everyone's minds again Noxus found it hard to focus whenever he speaks it's like he is drawing them in. "Valirak, know if you take another step I shall give you the gift of suffering. I am giving you an offer to bow and join me." Valirak laughed as he charged he shouted "Useless threats! What can do you do!?"

Noxus watched Valirak charge at Adelram, Noxus knew that Adelram could use a sword but he never known him to be a bladesmen. A part of his mind knew that Valirak could win handily. Valirak slashed suddenly Adelram was now to the left of him to Valirak's shock. Valirak stood in place he shouted "How did you do that!?" Adelram shrugged "I simply dodged it. Your strike was quite slow Valirak."

Valirak gripped his sword he turned and began slashing at Adelram, To Noxus's shock he dodged every blow with ease, Valirak grit his teeth "Hold still!" Adelram smiled again "I can't. I am not wearing power armour getting hit would be quite dangerous. Now as I said Valirak I will give you the gift of suffering."

Valirak slashed again, Adelram dodged to his right with a swift motion he drew his combat knife, Noxus could see it glowed as he removed it from the sheath he stabbed into a gap in Valirak's right arm. Valirak moved back holding his arm, Sweat lined his brow.

Valirak looked to the knife he smiled "Is this all you could do? It just stings!" Noxus tactical display went erratic numbers randomly filled the screen he looked at Adelram he is now mumbling. Noxus shouted at Valirak "He is using sorcery!" Valirak looked at Adelram he was about to charge until his whole arm became consumed in purple flame. The flames emitted from the knife.

Valirak screamed, He dropped his blade and fell to his knee's he tried to grip the knife, Noxus could see his power armour boiling around his arm the flames began moving to his body. Noxus could see Valirak struggling to pull out the knife Valirak grit his teeth and pulled the knife out slowly with his hand. The hand he used to pull out the knife the armour surrounding it is now melted. The flames died out instantly as Valirak removed the knife.

Valirak's voice hoarse said "What have you done to me!?" Noxus looked at Valirak's arm it is now a ruin of melted power armour and skin even a part of his body did not escape the flames. Noxus just realised he is still in the position of gripping his blade. Why hasn't he moved? it's now clear Valirak won't win.

Adelram began chanting strange words again, Noxus felt his nose bleeding suddenly. Valirak shouted "What are you doing kill him! Kill him now!" Everyone drew their blades and charged. Noxus held, for some reason he knew if he moved. He would die. If he drew his blade death will come. Adelram's chant stopped.

Noxus could now smell brimstone and perfume, the smell pierced the fliters of his helmet, Adelram unleashed a wave of purple energy that glittered as it moved, Valirak ducked out of the way. Noxus ran to a pillar for cover, he poked his head out 3 of his squadmates were not lucky the energy crashed into them. Their power armour distorted, twisted they yelled in pure agony. Those not wearing helmets they began vomiting purple as their eyes melted at contact with the wave of energy. All 3 crumpled to the ground.

The glitter stuck to the walls twisting and distorting anything it touched.

Valirak got to his knee's, the Astartes that survived stood still taking a few steps back he hissed "We can't win we should retreat." Valirak shouted "No we can't! I refuse!" The Astartes shook his head "I don't care. You saw what he did." Noxus stepped out from the pillar. He looked at the dead bodies, Valirak eyes fell on him "What are you doing Noxus!? Attack him!"

Noxus held the grip of his blade again His mouth became dry, his hearts now skipping beats. He ran tactical decisions in his mind as he looked at Adelram. He could run but considering what he just saw it would be pointless. His point proves itself right as the last member who survived turned around and approached the door they came through.

Adelram tutted "You can't do that you ignored my offer." Noxus watched Adelram raise his hand he summoned a great long purple whip. He chanted, the energy whip began moving through the air like a snakeit wrapped around the Astartes. He struggled as he shouted "What is this!?" the end of the whip rose and phased into his head. He went slack and with a motion he planted his own blade into his neck. He gurgled as blood pooled from his neck and blood ran down his nose he collapsed to the ground.

Noxus squinted his eyes, he knew finally there is no true escape. His mind diverted to the possibility that this may of been a trap of sort.
Adelram approached Valirak who to Noxus surprise whimpred as he said "Monster... freak!" Adelram cocked his head to one side "I did warn you." Noxus watched Adelram hold Valirak's head he leaned down towards Valirak face his hood now obscuring Valirak's face. Valirak began thrashing, Noxus could hear muffled screams.

Adelram leaned back after a few seconds, Valirak crumpled back his eyes melted, his face ashen and drained you could even see the bone underneath the skin. His lips looked burnt away his upper lip was now entirely missing showing his teeth. Adelram stroked his chin "A shame."
Adelram looked at him directly and began walking towards him. His twin hearts now began beating rapidly, he told himself he had to draw his blade. Or retreat. Noxus shook his head considering what he just did he could easily catch him. Drawing his blade is suicide considering what he just saw.

As he thought this Adelram stood in front of him he finally spoke with his mouth. His voice is far more serene, all hint of gender now gone from his voice. "So you did not take the step forward. Bow to me Noxus." Noxus took a step back "I-I Can't." Adelram frowned "Why not? You don't want to kill me. You wish to serve me if you did not you would have advanced."

Noxus did not know what else to say It's only been a few weeks since he last saw him. How did he changed this much? Considering what Gethus said how he screamed like a child when he broke his legs. Noxus thought on Gethus it's been a few weeks since he vanished he wondered if Adelram had something to do with it.

Adelram took another step foward "Don't walk away from me Noxus." Noxus shouted "I can't! I just Can't! You have no idea what Sebastian is like! Neverborn whispers into his ear of traitors!" Adelram smiled "So you follow Sebastian because you fear him? Not because you admire or love him?" Noxus clenched his hands "I don't fear him! He is favoured hence why I follow him!"

Adelram pouted "Sounds like denial to me. Your soul shudders whenever you speak his name." Noxus hated what he just did, Adelram never pouted before yet he could not look away. Adelram clapped his hands "See Noxus if you bow to me. You would not have to fear me you would love and admire me instead." Noxus grew slightly angry "Why would I ever do that!? You have changed yet you are nothing like our old leader. You are nothing like the Starlight king."

Adelram shook his head "I want to be greater than him. I have to be to get what I want." Noxus stepped foward "So you want ascension then?" Adelram shook his head again "No not exactly. I don't want to chase him I want him to look at me. I will be different." Noxus wondered who Adelram referred to a part of him is still in disbelief that he has gained such power in weeks. Noxus laughed "Really!? I bet you are not truly favoured you just learned a few new tricks. That's it! You are playing tricks on my mind!"

Adelram frowned "Is that what you think? Judge for yourself then." Adelram removed his hood, Noxus looked upon Adelram's face his mouth went agape. He was not sure what he saw his.. his features seemed changed. This is not a simple case of looking androgynous. Noxus said "I... I..." Adelram smiled gently "I what?" Noxus felt his legs giving way they felt weak his beauty obliterated Valirak's.

It began to make sense it seemed like his whole body has been changed by someone or something. Noxus shook his head. There is no way he could be more favoured in such a small amount of time it's impossible. It can't be possible after everything they did to him. Even his legs are completely healed.

Noxus's body wanted to drop to his knee's, his heart wanted to yet his mind knew that if he did so it would be the end. His legs finally gave way he dropped to his knee's as he said "Why? Did I do that?" Adelram knelt down slightly "Your body and heart knows what you want listen to that."
Noxus lips trembled "Fine! Fine! I will follow you." Adelram nodded "Good!" He placed his hood back on to Noxus's relief. Adelram walked over to the woman who Valirak threw to the ground. Adelram looked her over he mused "Heavily bruised nothing serious. Up you get." The young woman got up while slightly rubbing her body.

Adelram walked over and picked up the combat knife as he made his way to the twin doors he came out from he said "Are you coming Noxus?" Noxus rose wondering what exactly he has now gotten himself into.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/10 01:23:15


Post by: lliu


Well we now get to see a few of adelram's new toys and powers. Nice.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/10 02:38:38


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Well we now get to see a few of adelram's new toys and powers. Nice.


Indeed lots of new toys and mutations. I took some time to go through the black crusade roleplay game looking at physic powers and mutations.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/10 03:08:46


Post by: shinros


Chapter 16

entry 11044

I did not know if this was a good idea, I had no idea how Lord Jedrick would react when asking him this question. I asked him why is he constantly trying to disprove Marthas.Now he simply told me it's none of my business. I pushed the point further asking if he is jealous of Marthas soon as I said that he grabbed me and shoved me to the wall. He told me that I should watch what I say. What he said next verified my thoughts he told me out of respect for our lord is why he won't harm me. If I ask again he would not hold back.

He let go and walked away. I now know for sure Jedrick care's for our Lord greatly. I only know of how he joined him but nothing after that. I wonder what happened between them?


Adelram sat on a pillar in the next room as the small camp fire burned. Camila leaned on him sleeping, Noxus sat at the other side of the fire. Adelram could not help but smile oddly, Noxus made the right decision. He may not realise it but looking at his soul during that encounter he was utterly terrified. Now it's slowly turning to adoration even if he does not want to admit it.

Adelram watched Noxus looking over his sword as he asked "So who is the woman?" Adelram looked down at her, she looked so frail that with a touch she would shatter "I only have her name really. It's all I asked for, she is mine." Adelram could tell Noxus is frowning "It's clear you haven't tortured her." Adelram smiled "I haven't. I am merely curious on why he is interested in her."

Noxus spoke his confusion clear "He?" Adelram stroked his chin "I mean Asriel of course. Considering how he is now I wonder what made him take interest in this young woman." Adelram moved his hand to her brown hair he twisted a small piece "The imperial guard were quite rough with her I assume." Adelram could see Noxus is thinking "What's on your mind brother?" As he mentioned brother he could see Noxus flinching.

Noxus coughed "How is your creature still alive?" Adelram frowned when he called him that it annoyed him slightly yet he answered his question "From my understanding, the warband has been spirited away to this planet. My servant has spent a great amount of time putting things together." Noxus nodded "I see. I was found by Sebastian I saw how he changed I wanted to follow him. He made the warband str-" Adelram watched the sentence die on his lips he finished his sentence "Stronger? Are you sure? Considering what I did to our brothers in the last room? Do you still think he made the warband stronger?" Noxus cast his head down slightly when he said that he then asked "What did you do to Valirak?"
Adelram chuckled "You saw clearly what happened. I just decided his suffering is greater if I used my sorcery in that fashion."

It is still clear to Adelram that Noxus is still unsure of what exactly he has done he tried to bring the topic back to Sebastian "Tell me Noxus. Are you happy calling Sebastian lord? Since following Sebastian have you felt that you have grown in anyway?" Noxus responded his voice firm "What makes you think that you are stronger now? You may of learned some new tricks yet Sebastian could still kill you."

Adelram smiled "In the past? But now? After my journey of reflection and experience? When this is done I will face him." Noxus shocked said "He will kill you!" Adelram laughed slightly "Noxus are you already worried about me?" Noxus shook his head, Adelram could see he is still clearly unsure "No. I am just wondering why you are going to do something so foolish."

Adelram stared directly into the eyes of his helmet "I know I can defeat him now. That much is clear to me. His light is small his want is small I can never lose to that."

Noxus started to become relaxed with his response he seemed satisfied with his answer he then asked a question "You surround yourself with slaves why? Compared to everyone else you surround yourself with lesser beings." Adelram sighed in annoyance "That is why you are still a follower Noxus." Noxus gripped his blade as he said that.

Adelram decided to remove his hood as he spoke the instant he did that Noxus turned his head away, Adelram smiled "You saw what I did in the last room. The bodies are still there. What if I told you I almost died facing guardsmen in the past?" Noxus slowly faced him it took him a few seconds to speak "I don't believe it." Adelram smiled "It's true. When I began this journey I thought that I am superior. I can handle anything that comes my way ease along with being a psyker." Adelram could see Noxus is now listening carefully Adelram continued his explanation "Think on this. I am not wearing power armour now if I was I would largely not have to worry about taking a direct hit from a lasgun. Now? I do. I had to actually think around how I should face a squad of imperial guardsmen. It was oddly exciting for some reason."

Noxus placed his blade down "I imagine conscripts can't give you much trouble even if you are not wearing power armour." Adelram chuckled slightly "I refer to the proper squads in the north. Not the conscripts. They have come rather close to killing me." Adelram could see Noxus's puzzlement and surprise is increasing. Adelram pulled out the bolt pistol "Now a bolt pistol, a single shot from an Astartes grade one could easily kill them. Yet I had to think about ammo and what I may possibly face in the future. If I faced too many of Sebastian's lot they would catch on that I am alive. Facing the Death guard? Their equipment is of no use to me. So I mainly had to use my combat knife when facing any adversary"

Adelram looked down to Camila "Plus I have her tagging along with me. I have to think about how she needs rest. To eat. Scavenging for food." Noxus removed his helmet at his response, Adelram looked at his face as he frowned his features are rather plain and he has short black hair "Where ever you are going. It would of been easier to leave her behind." Adelram shrugged "As I said before I am curious as to why he has interest in her." Noxus raised his eyebrow "Why would you trust the judgement of a slave?"

Adelram gave Noxus a gentle smile, his eye twitched "Why not? I now trust him far more than you right now. He is my favourite. He knows what he is and asks for nothing in return. I wished I realised it sooner. No not realise, accepted it sooner." Adelram could see Noxus clenching his fists "I see. I do have one question though. What happened to Gethus?"

Adelram thought on his question. It's likely Gethus is dead considering he asked the question he most likely thinks that he had something to do with it. Adelram had a rather good idea why he is now missing he smiled as he said "Asriel has most likely killed him." Noxus's eyes went wide "Impossible! He also somehow managed to kill his whole squad!" Adelram added this information to his mind he could not help but feel joyful on how much Asriel's cares.

Adelram relaxed on the pillar "This is the problem. We Astartes underestimate others greatly our survival instinct has been blunted because of it." Adelram pushed his point further "Think on it. Given the right circumstances, inquisitors can kill us. Assassins for sure can definitely kill us. Humans given the chance can do the unpredictable." Adelram remembered Silas's words they actually helped during the journey in the end he found that he was right. He recalled the conscript he killed by backhanding her. Yes he killed her with ease but what surprised him is that she was largely unaffected by the gifts the dark prince has given him.

Adelram looked to his feet that has been bloodied by walking over a war torn battlefield he now understands what Marthas is trying to show or teach him. He asked Noxus "Aren't you bored in Sebastian's camp?" Noxus thought on his question and answered "It was more boring following you around." Adelram smiled "True. Before when referring to the person I refuse to chase. That I want them to look at me. I was not referring to our captain." Noxus raised his eyebrow "Who then?"

Adelram thought on what he is about to say for once he is not worried he said "I refer to our father." Noxus's eyes went wide "So it is ascension then?" Adelram shook his head "No. That may happen if the dark prince wills it but largely everyone who has become a daemon prince in the third has done so to chase after our father to meet him. I want the opposite." Noxus is clearly shocked "Are you that arrogant? To think that our father will talk to you personally after he left us?"

Adelram listened he did not care for Noxus's words he pressed further "Don't you want the same thing? For our father even if it's a small piece to look at us with Pride? Do you think what Sebastian is doing in his little camp will ever bring his attention?" Adelram smiled he could see he is unsettling Noxus "I will do far worse to people who cross us. To the people we ravage and kill. I tasted Valirak's agony and suffering as he died. I listened to the screams and lamentations of all those I killed in this journey. I realised I have to bring a grand crescendo of agony and suffering to ever catch our father's attention."

Adelram could see Noxus is processing what he just said, Adelram then said softly "Don't you want to see it Noxus? Making planets cry in torment to bring the eye of our father? Forget your pitiful excesses your small wants and join me wholly on this path."

Adelram could see Noxus' breath steadying he is growing excited he could see it. Adelram knows that Sebastian has no clear vision right now. Adelram asked again "Do you want to see it Noxus?" Noxus finally nodded "I want to see it." Noxus looked at his hand it is shaking as he said "It's been a long time since I have ever been excited like this."

Adelram nodded "Good hold on to that. we are close to the destination I am trying to reach." Noxus raised his eyebrow "Where are you going? I mean where are we going?" Adelram smiled "You will see. We have to move soon though." Noxus responded "I see."

It's been a few days Camila walked by his side to his right she largely did not speak a word since he picked her up and Noxus is to his left. Adelram knew he had to reach the compound soon since it's the last day.

This part of the city had an eerie silence. Noxus looked around "We are being watched I guess." Adelram smiled "We are but we have nothing to worry about." Noxus nodded " Very well. So who ever is watching us does not seek to harm us?" Adelram stroked his chin "Perhaps harm you. It's more the fact that you are with me that they have not fired their sniper rifles."

Adelram reached a familiar tunnel and stopped, he raised his hand all he had to do is make a small hole for the two travelling with him. The ritual just looking at it with his witch sight he now realised that it is quite intricate. Adelram began chanting moving his hands bending the wall twisting open a hole to walk through.

It shimmered he lowered his hands and looked at Noxus "We must hurry through it won't be open forever." Noxus said "What did you do? I saw something shimmer for a moment." Adelram sighed "Enough. let's move now." Adelram walked into the tunnel Camila and Noxus followed.

Marthas sat at the exit of the courtyard with Asriel. Jedrick is here also. Silas did not bother waiting at the entrance he seemed confident that Adelram is returning today.

The fact it's the final day kept playing in his mind for some reason, he hoped that Adelram will make it since he does not want to destroy everything that's been built so far. He looked at Asriel who is sat nearby sharpening his blade his cloak moving rapidly. It's clear that he is not calm he noted that after all they have been through he will wait a month before doing anything.

Silas, somehow convinced Jedrick to also wait the month out. Marthas spoke out loud "I am confident he will return today." Jedrick is leaning on the wall he glowered "Shut up! Your nonsense may of got him killed!" Marthas frowned "Don't you believe he can do it? Don't you have any faith in him?" Jedrick stood straight and walked over his hand hovering over his axe "If he does not return by the end of today. I will kill you."

Marthas looked forward "You may try to kill me. Only after the day ends" Jedrick scowled "Try!? I can kill you." Marthas looked over in Asriel's direction "He is the only one who has a likely chance to kill me. Not you." Jedrick removed his axe from it's sheath he raised his axe "That's it!" He lowered it to strike him but his arm stopped mid motion.

Asriel's cape is now wrapped around his axe wielding arm Jedrick turned to Asriel "What are you doing?" Asriel did not say a word Jedrick sighed in annoyance. Part of the cloak holding his arm removed itself, Jedrick went back to his old position grunting in anger. Marthas could see that Asriel's action calmed him down slightly. Or he is telling Jedrick to wait.

They waited for another hour until suddenly Asriel perked up. He stood up looking into the distance he growled "Someone messed with the ritual." Marthas stood up "It could be our Lord by the way." Asriel shook his head "He has the charm. He has no reason to mess with the ritual."

Marthas looked into the distance "Asriel speak to our scouts. It might be him." Asriel pulled out a communication device he began speaking into it. A voice came through "It's him Asriel. He bought people with him." Marthas raised his eyebrow "He bought people with him?" Asriel asked the scout "Do you have a description?" The scout's voice came through the device after a few seconds "An imperial guardsman their uniform is torn and an Astartes. He looked to be from Sebastian's group."

Marthas smiled "See. He made it he should reach the compound soon." Jedrick scoffed in annoyance "I still don't like what you did." Marthas turned to Jedrick he is getting slightly annoyed with his outburst "Yet it worked. Enough with your protests." Jedrick retorted "He may have got back but that does not mean he came out how you wanted."

Marthas faced forward again "We shall see."

They waited for a few more minutes and in the distance he saw him. The robe now dirty he approached. He could see the Guardsmen and an Astartes following behind him. Eventually Adelram reached the entrance of the apartment complex.

Jedrick stepped forward "Dammit your alive! Don't agree with Marthas' madness ever again do you hear me!" Marthas frowned at what Jedrick said he approached Adelram he could sense that he has changed. The scent about him is different. How he walked is different and finally when he spoke "I made it back. I finished my journey."

A large grin lined Marthas face, he could see Jedrick is unbalanced as he spoke he asked "What happened to you out there? You... I..." Adelram removed his hood at his response, Marthas dropped to his knees instantly, Jedrick did the same slowly.

Asriel stood like a stone he looked at Adelram and then to him he removed his helmet and lowered his hood. Marthas noted the woman flinched as he did so. Still he is surprised that Asriel is not kneeling in awe to the changed wrought upon their lord. Asriel said "My lord you are back... I was worried." Adelram turned to Asriel "Indeed I am back and there is a great amount of things that need to be done." Asriel bowed "What would you have me do?"

Marthas could oddly see confusion lining Adelram's perfect features as he spoke to Asriel. Adelram said "Is everything okay Asriel?" Asriel then rose confused "Everything is fine. Why do you ask?" Marthas shocked said out loud "Can't you see how he is changed!? How wonderful he now looks!?"

Asriel cocked his head "He looks slightly different. His voice is slightly different but he is still him. He is my lord." Marthas' mouth went agape "Are you blind!?" Adelram laughed hard, Marthas in the time he has known him never seen him laugh in such a fashion. He walked over to Asriel his laugh subsided as he stroked Asriel's head.

Marthas could see, Adelram giving Asriel a gentle and sincere smile as he said "I forget what you went through in the past. You are not like everyone else and this is why I favour you. I have just forgotten that." Marthas could see confusion on Asriel's face he is most likely wondering what everyone is seeing.

Marthas rose along with Jedrick. Marthas placed his eyes upon the Astartes. He did not recognise him but Jedrick pointed he shouted "Noxus! What are you doing here!" The Astartes known as Noxus looked away.

Adelram smiled "He is with us now." Jedrick folded his arms "Can he be trusted?" Adelram nodded "He can." Adelram turned his head to Noxus "You can be trusted can't you brother?" Marthas watched Noxus flinch he wondered what exactly happened to him for Adelram to get him to join them.

Marthas nodded and gestured to the entrance "My lord everyone needs to see you are well." Adelram smiled "Indeed they have to see their lord has returned."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/14 00:47:25


Post by: shinros


Chapter 17

entry 11090

We found our lord finally. Finally he is here in this very apartment complex but now he is broken. A shell hollowed out by the god of decay and despair. I wonder what more I could of done? Perhaps if I placed even more people on watch we could of found him before Sebastian got to him?
Still it's time. It's time to move things forward, to begin the end game to bring this long war to it's close.

I will deal with the one who broke his legs and retrieve Isira. All the pieces are being moved. I may not get a chance to write another entry. Since from now I will be busy setting things up.


I just hope we can break our lord out of his despair. I am confident Marthas can do it.


Asriel watched his lord walk into the courtyard everyone froze. Time stood still, all he could hear is the breathing of the crowd of people and their hearbeat. In a single motion everyone dropped to their knee's in silence. Asriel could even spot Isira in the crowd tears in her eyes. Asriel took another look at his lord, he wondered what everyone actually saw. What did they see that he could not see?

He looked at Marthas and Jedrick he could see Marthas clearly in awe. Jedrick by his body language seemed happy but he could tell he wanted to say something else. Asriel folded his arms in annoyance he wanted to understand. He wanted to be as happy as everyone else. At that moment he heard Meliva laughing softly Asriel knew she is mocking him. One thing about their bond is that they can converse within his mind. Asriel asked "What is so funny?" Meliva dropped her laughter she moved slightly causing Asriel some discomfort "Why you wondering why everyone is so absorbed with our master." Asriel noted that she called his lord master.

She never did that. Unless she is perhaps plotting something Asriel asked "Why are you referring to him as master?" Meliva stopped moving, the discomfort ceased "Well we are perhaps going to be together until your death and we share this body. We are one so he is also my master also." Asriel knew they came to an agreement but he is not sure they both have the same understanding or the exact same wants.

Asriel mused "You get to exprience reality through me, yet being a shard of the dark prince a greater one at that. You always want more, so Meliva what do you want exactly?" As he said this, his lord gestured everyone to rise, Isira came foward and gave another bow. Tears still in her eyes she said "You are so beautiful now." She bowed again. His lord grinned "Indeed. Still there is much to do." Asriel looked at the crowd holding a similar expression to Isira. Asriel is still annoyed trying to understand what everyone else saw, Meliva spoke as she did so Asriel saw flashes of the church. What happened in the basement.

He got a headache, he felt pain, pleasure and many other sensations all at once. The memory he would like to forget but a part of him did not want to. He cried a small tear of blood he chuckled to himself as he said under his breath "How could I forget? So it effects me that much?" His lord turned to him concerned he said "A tear of blood? Is something wrong?" Asriel gave a weak smile "No my lord. I am just happy for you that's all." His master walked over and pulled out a small cloth and wiped the tear away as he said "You can't lie to me."

His lord smiled, he could see some women fainting as he did so. Asriel looked at his face carefully searching he almost squinted his eyes. To perhaps see something his lord spoke softly "Stop trying it's fine." His lord removed the cloth from his face, Asriel could see Isira looked cross or clearly annoyed. Asriel scratched his head "I just want to be happy for you or understand what other people see. That's all." Adelram nodded "It's alright. Anyway I have something to tell you." Asriel perked up "What is it my lord?"

His lord stroked his chin "I am moving into your room. Along with Camila." Adelram looked to the woman from the inner city as he did so Asriel looked at her. He is surprised that his lord found her. Asriel hoped that it would be likely he would come across her again and attempt to take her back to the compound. Still it was good that he went into her apartment to grab her important item at the moment it is in his room.

Staring her down for a for more seconds she seemed like him she did not seem to be as taken in by his lord's features. Or perhaps she just hides it well enough considering she has been with him for a period of time.

Asriel looked her up and down he turned her name over in his head. Considering when he spoke with her he did not even ask her name. Nor did she offer it. Or perhaps the telepathy technique he used was a tad too strong? Asriel looked at the crowd of people staring at him and he saw something that surprised him anger. No not anger jealously.

He could even see Isira is doing all she can to contain herself. Asriel nodded to his lord "Very well I will get ready." Asriel placed his helmet back on he walked over to Camila "You shall help me. Come." Asriel grabbed her hand she pulled back slightly for a moment but relaxed her voice a small squeak "Is that really you Asriel?" Asriel nodded "Yes it is. You are fortunate our master found you." Camila looked up at him and nodded.
As he walked to the apartment complex people stared at him in silence. As they entered the double doors. Silas stood near a window looking out. Silas turned to him "Marthas threw our lord into a warzone and he comes back more pretty. Don't you find that funny Asriel?" Asriel gave a slight bow with his head "I personally don't see it or the humour either." Silas shrugged "That's why he is moving into your room." Silas sighed "Well it's time I go see him then." Silas walked out of the building.

Asriel continued to the stairs as they walked up he looked to Camila he asked her "What do you think of our lord?" Camila looked up in surprise she spoke her voice still low "I don't know." Asriel stopped "You don't know? Why?" Asriel let go of her hand, Camila scratched her head "When he took me. He killed my squad brutally I suspect he will do the same to anyone else in his way." Asriel nodded "That is expected they should not be in his way in the first place."

Asriel watched Camila squeeze her hands together "Even as he did so. When he grabbed me all that hatred, fear and all thoughts of him being a he-" Asriel watched her sentence die on her lips Asriel said as softly as he can "Speak your mind. I asked didn't I?" Camila nodded and continued "A heretic. The imperial guard drilled into me further to hate to despise them. To vilify them completely. Yet when he held me I could not. I could not do such a thing even in my mind I knew I should. All of that vanished I only felt longing and the need to serve him." Asriel thought on what she said he then asked her "Do you still want to serve him?"

Asriel looked into her eyes searching as she said "It should bother me but I do. I travelled with him for days yet not once I wanted to run away. Even when I saw comrades in the distance I warred with myself whether to approach. Yet I always chose not to." Camila fell silent. Asriel felt satisfied with her answer oddly enough.

They continued to his room, as they entered Camila's eyes fell to his desk she almost rushed towards it. Camila looked at him in surprise tears welling up in her eyes "How? When?" Asriel removed his helmet and gave a small smile "I can't allow the imperials to waste such talent. Hence why I took your instrument. I was hoping to cross paths with you later or perhaps one of our teams might encounter your unit." Asriel watched her hold the violin tightly, Asriel did wonder what everyone would think of her talent.

Asriel with Camila took time to move around the book shelves in his room. They even had one removed from his room to make room for his lord's bed. Asriel dusted his hands "Everything is in place." He looked over to Camila who is now sitting on his bed going over her violin, she is checking the tuning she had a child like smile as she went about her work.

Asriel heard a knock on his door, he walked over to open it he saw that it is his lord. He stepped in and looked around the room and nodded "Good you made space." Asriel closed the door as he said "My lord is it okay that you do this?" His lord turned to him frowning "it's fine. Now Asriel, it's only you me and Camila here. Call me Adelram remember?" Asriel shook his head "It's.. difficult to do that." His lord held his frown of displeasure "Asriel do I have to order you?"

Asriel wanted to look away he did not want to displease him "Yes Adelram." Adelram smiled "Good!" He looked over to Camila "Now Asriel, tell me why you have an interest in this woman." Asriel smiled and pointed "She can play the violin. Really well actually." Asriel looked up to his lord confusion now displaying on his features he looked down at him "So I dragged a woman across the city due to her musical talent?"

Asriel pressed further "But my lo- Adelram. She made me of all people feel something." Asriel could see his lord thinking for a moment he called out to Camila "Camila!"Camila shot up "Ye-yes?" Asriel watched his lord pace the room when he spoke his tone is flat "Camila. Asriel tells me you have some talent with the violin. I wish you to play for me."

Asriel could see Camila is nervous what his lord said next made her even more so "I do hope you are as good. I have never been into music." His lord stopped pacing and folded his arms in front of Camila.

Camila got in position to play the violin. She closed her eyes and remained silent for a moment then she started to play. The sound that came from the instrument made Asriel feel whole again. Like his lord he is not exactly interested in music but hearing her play. He could feel her emotion each time she moved the bow over the string.

In the song he could feel her sadness, her anger and joy oddly enough. Asriel looked up to his lord he can see he is no longer folding his arms. He is utterly captivated by what he is hearing. Camila stopped after a few minutes. Asriel could see his lord is stunned he took him a few moments to speak "That was... I never heard anything like it."

Camila gave a small bow "I am glad you like it." Asriel smiled he is glad his lord enjoyed it he did wonder what everyone else would think of her music. As he thought this he heard a thud on the door. Asriel walked over to inspect the noise he opened his room door to see Silas falling forward slightly into the room along with Jedrick.

Asriel moved to the side to avoid being crushed as they toppled forward, Asriel looked out in the hallway to see that Marthas and the Astartes Noxus standing in the corridoor also. Silas and Jedrick quickly got up, Jedrick stretched "Adelram, I just wanted to you know check up on you."
Silas walked up to Camila and grabbed one of her shoulders as he said firmly "Play again. you must." Asriel watched his lord push Silas back slightly causing him to release his grip "She will play more later. Now are all of you here just because of the music? Or are you here for something important?" Silas sighed in annoyance "You get all the good ones."

Marthas and Noxus stepped into the room, Jedrick glowered at Marthas "I thought you weren't interested in music?" Marthas shrugged "Music is a part of war. In the past music was used to issue orders and boost the morale of men." Jedrick pointed at Marthas and shouted "You are just making this up as you go along aren't you! Admit it! You are just making excuses for you to enjoy the music!" Marthas ignored Jedrick and walked up to Camila he smiled as he said "How about you come into battle with us? Of course you will stay back I am quite sure everyone will fight harder listening to you play. Plus you could get some inspiration..."

Asriel smiled, Camila is having the desired effect also overall it would help decrease the slave decline rate. Asriel could see his lord is getting slightly annoyed he creased his brow "I see so everyone is here for the music. She will play later now get out." Silas shook his head "Adelram. Just one more. Just one." Noxus interjected "Indeed it would not much to ask to hear one more."

Asriel folded his arms "My lord I am quite sure Camila would not mind playing one more?" Asriel looked over to her she nodded, Asriel could see she seemed happy that they seemed so absorbed by her music Camila said "I don't mind playing again." Jedrick laughed "See Adelram? She does not mind!" Asriel watched his lord sigh "Very well."

Camila got into position and placed her bow on the string and played another song. Silas removed his helmet as she did so even Jedrick. Their eyes lit up as she played, Asriel even caught the sound of a sniffle from Noxus. Marthas closed his eyes to absorb the sound of music.
Asriel smiled to see his lord enjoying the music, Meliva coiled slightly "She is good can't wait to see her take her gift further." Asriel had to agree with Meliva he could not wait to see how she will handle her talent down the line.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/14 01:40:35


Post by: lliu


I like it. Nice to see th war and is getting some new flavour.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/14 22:49:12


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
I like it. Nice to see th war and is getting some new flavour.


Aye, the war is moving on now quite excited to get at it finally. Plus I get the feeling I am terrible at fight scenes so this will be good practice!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/16 01:09:04


Post by: shinros


Chapter 17

Jacob sat at his desk in his personal office. The person he is about to call may damn this world to elimination his "friend" has been a great help in the past he recalled when he first met him when his regiment was called to pacify Athor.
Jacob looked at the screen on his desk he ensured the communication line is secure he would not take his call or give information if he is not certain the line is secure. Jacob turned on the device he waited the screen displayed static for a minute until a voice came through. The voice is heavily modulated.

The voice asked "Pass phrase?" Jacob cleared his throat "nintiy nine and nintiy three. The emperor watches over those who does his will." Jacob wondered if he said it correctly the voice did not respond whether he got it correct or not.
The static faded he then saw a familiar face he smiled as he said "Belaris Fane, inquisitor of the ordo malleus." Belaris raised his eyebrow "Why have you called me Jacob?" Jacob knew he is quite busy due to the events happening in the galaxy but he might be the key to ending this war. Jacob looked at Belaris features it is slightly obscured due to the red hood but he can see his face looked aged, his hair is grey and he could see a lack of sleep.

Jacob stroked his chin "I need information." Belaris frowned "I refuse." Jacob creased his brow "I haven't even asked for what type of information I wanted." Belaris shook his head in annoyance "Considering how many times we have worked together you should be aware of what sort of information I handle. Information that can stain the soul of the righteous." Jacob narrowed his eyes "I am currently fighting in the dark against an unknown element Belaris. I need something, anything!"

Jacob could see Belaris is thinking he sighed "What do you need? Explain the situation in detail" Jacob smiled "You are aware that we are fighting two heretic forces yes?" Belaris nodded, Jacob continued his explanation "I believe there is a third party prolonging this war for whatever reason. I want to know if this planet had any strange history surrounding it. Or if not I want information or memoirs on the previous generals killed on this planet."

Jacob could see Belaris chuckling. Jacob frowned "What is so funny?" Belaris smiled, Jacob did not know what to think with that expression Belaris rarely if ever smiled. Belaris stopped laughing "You would make a good inquisitor Jacob." Jacob smiled "Well the emperor wanted me to be a general of the Astra Militarum Belaris." Belaris smirked "So, you wish to know of any strange happenings on the planet?" Jacob nodded.

Jacob could see that Belaris is thinking carefully and soon began starting at him. Jacob licked his lips in antcipation. For some reason Jacob got the feeling Belaris is now gazing into his soul assessing him to see if he is worthy. Belaris then said "Have you ever heard of the angel?" Jacob thought on it for a moment he heard of the conscripts whispering about such a thing. That it is a bringer of judgement an envoy of the emperor. Considering what he has seen in his long career it is most likely hogwash or the conscripts don't have the whole story.
Jacob nodded slightly "I have in the briefest details, conscripts whisper about it behind our backs like we can't hear." Belaris sighed "You should have them executed, now to remain on topic. He exists." Jacob furrowed his brows "Really? What gives you that idea?" Belaris tapped his chin "I went over some old reports. In the past this planet had several large criminal empires. Over a few years they all vanished every trace eliminated."

Jacob raised his eyebrow in disbelief "Impossible?! By just one person?!" Belaris nodded "Indeed. Whoever did this knows how to cover their tracks well. Of course the after effect of the actions of this "angel" caused crime to plummet to near 0%" Jacob sat back in his chair "So the question is whether this "angel" is on our side or not." Belaris shook his head "I believe this figure is not on our side."

Jacob frowned "What makes you think that Belaris?" Jacob could tell Belaris is folding his arms as he spoke "At first one criminal empire rose to prominence, soon they were eliminated. Soon after that nobles started dying going by autopsy reports they were killed in a brutal fashion." Belaris sighed "Plus the fact this person is prolonging the war in the shadows. If he is truly of the emperor's will he will be in the light aiding us not hiding within the darkness. Plus everyone sent to investigate this angel has vanished."

Jacob leaned forward "I see. What can we do then?" Belaris cleared his throat "I was going to go investigate this angel but I am needed on Athor. I have went through the memiors of the third Lord general posted to your position. It's quite... enlightning." Jacob's eyes went wide "Can I have his memiors?" Belaris began turning away "It's already being transfered to this device." Jacob watched the communication feed suddenly die.

Jacob could see something being transferred he smiled as he said under his breath "Perhaps we can finally gain victory..."

Adelram walked with Asriel, they are going to visit Caius's workshop on the fourth floor the nearer they got to his abode the sound of machinery increased. They reached the end of the hall. They stood in front of two double doors.
Adelram folded his arms "So my new gear is here?" Asriel nodded "Yes my lord." Adelram pushed the doors open they both entered. The room is extremely large various machinery and devices lay on the desks and tables. Adelram raised his eyebrow "Asriel how did you secure this place by the way? I mean the apartment complex itself" Asriel looked up to him "It belonged to a contact that shifted narcotics. People also slummed in the building. Families looking to get by and the families of those who are in debt to the gang." Adelram narrowed his eyes "You did not answer the question."

Adelram watched Asriel looking up slightly thinking he smiled "I remember now. I killed them, I locked each of the entrances and killed everyone in the building. The wisps you see on the fourth floor is due to the murder that took place here. The gang itself gave up reclaiming the building due to believing it to be haunted."

Adelram chuckled slightly he might have to ask him in detail of what he did that day, Caius soon walked over his mechanical tendrils moving in the air "Astartes Adelram. Have you come to see my finest work?" Adelram looked at Caius and nodded "Yes I am. Is it ready?" Caius released a stream of noises. Asriel shrugged "He seems excited."

Caius turned away "Please follow me." Adelram followed Caius he could also see Asriel seemed excited he tried to hide it but he could see it clear as day. They went to the end of the room and on the stand he saw it. His new armour, his old suit of Power armour is mark IV but the suit in front of him seemed to be a mix of Mark IV and mark VII with some adjustments.

The armour had a long black robe. Parts of the armour were pink and purple in colouration. Adelram noted dark tongue runes carved on various sections of the armour. Adelram also noted leather straps hanged from parts of the armour also. Caius gestured to the armour "The combination of machine and warp. Please ready yourself to be outfitted."

Adelram removed his robe, Caius called over the servitors and they got to work putting on his armour. As each piece is placed on his body he could feel the brands on his body tingling most likely reacting to the runes on the armour. He smiled since arriving on this planet he felt ready that he could take anything on.

Finally they attached censers at his waist and they had one attached on his backpack. Finally a helmet with two daemonic horns is placed on his head. He blinked to dismiss the start up display on his tactical feed. Caius and the servitors stepped back.

Adelram flexed his hands "Right. Anything else?" Asriel nodded "Caius do you have the other thing?" Caius cocked his head sideways "I see. It shall be retreieved." Adelram watched caius release a stream of binary at a serivtor. The servitor walked to a desk and bought back a sheathed sword.

The servitor handed Caius a large blade he gripped it with his tendrils and walked over to Adelram. Adelram looked at the blade "My new sword?" Asriel nodded "Yes. I had caius make it to my exact specifications." Adelram gripped the blade he unsheathed it instead of the normal runes it had iconography instead as he looked down the blade it seemed like a story of sorts.

He could see a tree, and a man reaching for an apple. In the grass he could see a snake leering it's head up. He could not help but smile, he sheathed the blade and attached it to his waist. He nodded at Caius "You have done fine work."

Adelram could see his head moving in what he assumed to be approval. Adelram turned to Asriel "So now it's time to face Sebastian yes? To get back what's mine." Asriel nodded "Yes my lord."

Adelram moved to leave, Asriel followed behind him. As they exited Caius's workshop Adelram could see Jedrick waiting in the hallway. Jedrick walked over "New armour. Looks good." Adelram could tell Jedrick wanted something he sighed "What is it Jedrick?" Jedrick took a breath as he said firmly "I want you to fight me."



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/16 13:12:18


Post by: lliu


Oh. What does Jedrick want or gain by fighting him? This is going to be interesting .


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/18 02:22:47


Post by: shinros


Chapter 18

Adelram is confused he wondered why Jedrick has decided to do such a thing. He stood across from him they are having their "battle" in Asriel's practice area it is a few miles from the apartment complex. Adelram could see it is a rather open area surrounded by buildings. There are scorch marks on the walls and ground detailing Asriel's many hours in this area.

He looked over to the "spectators", Asriel is here due to any serious injury that may occur. Marthas, Noxus and Silas were here to see a spectacle largely. In his eyes Marthas tried to show disinterest but he knows he wants to see how he has developed in the last month.

Adelram placed his eyes on Jedrick he is in battle stance holding his axe and dagger. By his body language he is serious about this but he could tell he seems... frustrated by something. He could tell that much when he returned to the apartment complex. Adelram called out while drawing his blade "Do we have to do this?" As he said this Jedrick ignored his words and charged at him.

Asriel watched Jedrick charging to his lord he had an idea why this is happening but he did not understand what Jedrick wants out of this. Silas had a large grin on his face "Who do you think will win Noxus?" Noxus scoffed "If you have seen what Adelram could do he could end this instantly." Marthas tapped the haft of his weapon on the ground "Of course that is clear enough for anyone to see. Now my concern is why Jedrick is doing this." Asriel frowned he wondered why no one can understand why this is happening. He looked up to Marthas as he said "He feels threatened." Marthas looked at him in surprise.

Adelram swatted away his strike with his blade, Adelram cursed under his breath he is truly serious. Jedrick moved to strike again this time aiming for his neck, Adelram dodged back in surprise. Adelram held his arms out in concern "Jedrick what are you hoping to gain from this?! I can see you are upset about something." Jedrick ran towards him again hacking away at him. Adelram knew that he had to wait for an opportunity to strike he found it easier to dodge attacks due to travelling through a warzone with his power armour.

Adelram raised his sword to push away an axe strike, the axe clashed with his blade he pushed the blow back, Jedrick readied his dagger to parry his incoming attack. Adelram raised his free hand he pushed forward, Jedrick went flying across the field. His power armour made sparks as he skidded across the ground.

Adelram watched Jedrick sit up and punch the ground in anger he snarled, in that moment when he snarled he knew something is wrong. Jedrick glowered "So you are strong! Dammit! Dammit!" Adelram felt a sense of confusion filling him as he said "Well yes. After what Marthas put me through I became stronger." Adelram could see Jedrick is getting more visibliy angry he rose slowly as he said firmly "So I guess he will lead our forces when you take back your warband?"

Adelram confusion increased "No Jedrick st-" Jedrick interuppted him "Enough! It's clear he is better at this! What could I do for you?! When you were a shell?! Empty! Broken! I could do nothing!" Adelram mouth suddenly felt dry for some reason why is this happening now? "Jedrick my bro-" Jedrick snarled "Enough! You call me that but do you really believe it!? Does anyone!? When you charged that wall on cadia! When you died! The talk of mutiny sickened me! Yet I did nothing! I held my hands! If just if wringed my hands around Sebastian's neck...."

Jedrick gave a small laugh "I wonder truly.. If me caring so much about you is something you put into me during that time..."

Asriel looked at everything unfolding before them yet Asriel could understand Jedrick somewhat. Thinking on it they been together for so long. He personally felt angry when he saw his lord as a shell. He wondered what was Jedrick thinking during that time? Perhaps he blames himself most of all? Asriel looked up to Silas who seemed concerned "Is something wrong?" Silas stroked his chin "Those two are quite odd." Asriel raised his eyebrow "How so?" Silas shrugged and sighed "When Jedrick first joined us I assumed he is a simple pawn being moved around by Adelram. Adelram was not liked back then he needed someone that people would rally behind."

Asriel scratched his head at Silas's words. Noxus nodded in agreement "Indeed many pressed Jedrick to take control of the warband he refuses every time. Who knows he might still be a pawn. I have never seem them be close in any form." As Silas and Noxus were in discussion, he knew that he could not exactly agree with what they are saying. He thought on his lord's special place his garden on the old ship. He allows Jedrick to be there no other Astartes have seen it if he did not care why would he allow him there? Or perhaps maybe it was to get Jedrick to trust him even more?

Asriel looked to his lord, the air around him is now distorting slightly, the runes on the armour began to glow and the sword ignited with eldritch flame. Asriel grew anxious with what has just occured.

Adelram felt upset angry even at his words. He felt the brands on his body burning he readied himself. Jedrick shouted "That's it! I might get my glorious death here!" Adelram held the grip of his blade tighter as he said those words. He charged his speed surprised Jedrick he could tell that much from his stance. His blade clashed with Jedrick's axe they began pushing each other back. Jedrick leaned in "So Marthas has made you this strong?" Jedrick chuckled "The old you. The old you had terrible blade sense and movement, now I can see no holes. No openings."

Adelram scoffed "Oh you are that impressed then? Perhaps I should go ask Marthas for more advice then..." as he said those words Jedrick pushed harder Adelram could feel the force he is placing on his weapon, Jedrick started to push him back. Jedrick snarled "You know I could kill him?!" Adelram retorted "Oh really? For one Jedrick he does not act like a fool and second I recall he was a Marshal and you were... what was it? A Blood claw? Isn't that like a scout within the space wolves? Also watching him fight.." Jedrick roared in rage "I knew it! I knew it! What are we to you?! You were alone when I joined you. Were you hated that much that you had to create brothers?!"

Adelram narrowed his eyes at him using some of his psychic power he pushed Jedrick back. For some reason those barbed words angered him. Adelram sheathed his blade, Jedrick glowered "Are you giving up?!" Adelram shook his head he raised both hands as he looked at Jedrick and made a grabbing motion. Jedrick froze unable to move.

Adelram made a lifting motion, Jedrick floated in the air as he reached a respectable height, Adelram bought his hands down Jedrick smashed onto the ground breaking the concerate. He repeated this several times until Jedrick stopped moving. Adelram walked over to Jedrick he moved slightly.

Adelram knelt down and removed his helmet. His face is bloodied, he did not see a face of anger or hatred just pure frustration. Adelram removed his own helmet and placed it down next to him. He wanted this conversation to be private as he said within Jedrick's mind "You are my brother Jedrick. The first why are you being this way?" Adelram watched Jedrick turning his head away slightly he seemed to catch on his intention as he said within his mind "I wanted to do something. This whole time all I did was watch. Watch Marthas take control of everything. Watch Asriel becoming stronger and finally watching Marthas change you."

Adelram frowned "Why should that bother you?" Jedrick looked to him and grit his teeth "I could do nothing to help you. When you came to us as a shell I wondered what could I have done? How can I fix this?" Adelram shook his head "Tell me bro-" Jedrick snarled and hissed out loud "Don't say it! We don't even share the same gene-sire." Adelram forced his reponse into his mind "You are." Jedrick frowned "But why?" Adelram gave Jedrick a small smile "Does it matter? You are a brother to me you are of the third. You know in the past when you joined us I thought you were annoying, juvenile and a fool someone I could use."

Jedrick looked utterly defeated in Adelram's eyes it's the first time he has even seen it as Jedrick said within his head "So what caused that to change?" Adelram stroked his chin "Well after a few weeks actually." Jedrick's eyes went wide "Really?! This must be a joke?!" Adelram shook his in disagreement "No. Out of everyone in the warband I found you reliable and enjoyable to talk to. I still think you are the most reliable."

Jedrick sighed as spoke out loud "Help me sit up." Adelram helped Jedrick sit up he also sat next to him. Jedrick smiled "So... did you still think I was reliable when in the past I charged a dreadnought and got my arm torn off?" Adelram blinked in surprise he found himself now talking normally with Jedrick "You still remember that?" Jedrick frowned "Well yeah I got my arm torn off you had to reattach it." Adelram laughed slightly "Well I was annoyed greatly but you did take out the dreadnought." Jedrick smiled "I also remembered when it happened you broke formation and was swearing as you charged down the battle field to get me."

Adelram scratched the back of his head "I don't recall swearing..." Jedrick looked directly at him "You did! I recall you said I was acting like a dumb dog. Along with.. what was the word for excreament as a curse in the language of Chemos? You said that along with head. Plus calling me a dumb bastard." Adelram creased his brow as the memory of the event returned.

Adelram folded his arms "So you feel better now?" Jedrick nodded "Yeah.. my body is aching everywhere though. I think some of my bones are broken." Adelram sighed "Well that's what you get for being an idiot.. to think such a thing after all w-" Jedrick suddenly interjected and mirrored his words "We've have been through so much." They looked at each other in surprise suddenly. Adelram chuckled slightly as he said under his breath "Indeed we have..."

Adelram looked forward he could see Asriel and the others running over. An Idea soon struck him he looked at Jedrick "So... Jedrick do you want to write my letter of challenge to Sebastian?" Jedrick gave a large grin showing his fangs "Can I write what I want?" Adelram looked at his grin how many times has he seen it now? Adelram smiled "Of course brother write what ever you want."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/19 18:41:33


Post by: shinros


Chapter 19


Sebastian sat on his throne in annoyance it's the fact that many Astartes within the warband has gone missing in such a short time frame which soured his mood. Gethus whole squad has not returned from their venture of gathering slaves. At the moment they are running out and many within the warband are becoming unsettled.

Dealing with the Death guard and ensuring they had enough slaves to enjoy their personal delights has started to become difficult. It perplexed him that Valirak has not returned either there is barely any threats to the south yet he heard nothing from him. Perhaps Noxus has taken Valirak's head? Sebastian bit his nail in anger as he hissed "No, Noxus is a coward and fool he would never do that."

He looked to his right another problem is who has taken the woman, two Astartes along with a pathetic slave found dead within his tent. Who or what could do such a thing. He knew those "three" do not have the skill set to do such a thing. Sebastian bit his tongue slightly drawing a small amount of blood. He closed his eyes as the coppery taste filled his mouth he found doing such a thing calmed him down slightly.

Suddenly he heard the tent door being opened and closed, he could hear the footsteps of several Astartes. He opened his eyes to see it is Marius, Sebastian leaned back in the throne "What is it Marius?" Marius looked to one of his kakophoni he gestured forward with his head. A noise marine threw forward a Astartes stripped of all his gear.

Sebastian looked down at the corpse then back up to Marius "What am I meant to be seeing?" Marius moved to the corpse and turned him over to his back. There is a written message carved into the back of corpse. Marius released a low rumble, Sebastian looked to Marius "You found him strung up? Near our camp?" Marius nodded.

Sebastian knew someone is trying to make a point It can't be the death guard they would spot them right away. Plus their stink would reveal their location. Sebastian leaned forward slightly and looked at the message. He traced his eyes down the back of the dead Astartes at the end of the message were coordinates.

Sebastian leaned back into his throne he narrowed his eyes at Marius "I assume you have read the message?" Marius nods he releases another low rumble from his mouth speaker, Sebastian glowered and slammed the arm of his throne "Of course I will face him! I know what the dark prince demands of his followers! I wonder why he chose that fool Jedrick to write this message! The message is a simple string of curses and derogatory insults at my superiority!"

Sebastian calmed himself he smiled "Adelram want's the warband back. He is weak the first time was to show how pathetic he actually was. Now? Now I will end him." Marius nods in approval as he released a screech from his speaker. Sebastian smiled "Indeed. I will show him the power of a true champion of the dark prince. He never understood our needs or what the dark prince required of us. Get the rhino's ready!"

Adelram waited he looked around the general area, it is a few miles away from their base but it's an open enough area for the challenge. He looked behind him Asriel, Noxus, Silas, Marthas and Jedrick waited near the truck. Adelram looked forward and calmly waited, he knew Sebastian will accept his pride won't allow him to refuse.

Adelram waited for a few more minutes he heard vehicles approaching in the distance he could see several rhino's coming towards them. Adelram smiled under his helmet,he could clearly see that Sebastian bought majority of the warband to this "event". The rhino's circled around them they stopped. Adelram looked around him he could see Astartes leaving the Rhino's several faces he recognised.

Finally the rhino in front of him out stepped his rival along with Marius and his squad. As he exited the rhino the warband cheered for Sebastian. As he walked towards him Adelram could hear them shouting for his death or for Sebastian to show him his place. Sebastian stopped a few paces away from him. Sebastian gave a wave and bade everyone to be quiet.

Adelram chuckled slightly he spread his arms out wide "Sebastian I am glad you accepted." Adelram could tell there is a small amount of confusion playing across his face most likely it's his voice. He is wondering what has changed. He did not seem surprised at his new wargear he is more concerned about what's underneath it.

Sebastian scoffed "I heard from Gethus that you screamed like a child when he broke your legs." The warband chuckled at that exclamation, Adelram shrugged "Well yes I did it was quite painful actually. Gethus breaking my legs was the first step on the path of my "new" want." Sebastian laughed "Oh really?! Is that the excuse you are using?! He shamed you Adelram. I shamed you."

Adelram listened to Sebastian laughing he nodded in agreement "You did shame me. Still I realised it was required." Sebastian stopped laughing his face now completely serious "What is there to learn from something like that?" Adelram removed his helmet he watched everyone flinch slightly. Some Astartes were in discussion others were looking away.

Adelram smiled as he did so the whispering increased "I learned much from my suffering Sebastian. Being tortured by Marius's sound waves, having my legs broken, falling into utter Despair and even losing my mark." Sebastian narrowed his eyes at him "You lost your mark, yes the dark prince has changed you but it's rare that the mark is ever returned." Adelram nodded in agreement "Indeed it is rare, that's why I have Marthas to thank for helping me get it back." Adelram stuck out his tongue, he could see Sebastian is now becoming visibly angry.
He slowly placed his helmet back on "Sebastian. Brother, I have learned much from the gift you gave me and for that I thank you. I realise that I cannot let you lead this warband into ruin." Sebastian shouted at him "You are still weak! You are still a fool!" Adelram replied calmly "Prove it then brother."

Sebastian drew his sword, Adelram drew his own blade and ignited it. The warband began cheering for Sebastian and Jeering at him. Adelram focused he generated a fireball and threw it at Sebastian. He dodged it with ease, Sebastian charged shouting "You still use the same old tricks! You have learned nothing!"

They clashed, Adelram matched Sebastian's strokes parrying and diverting away attacks that would kill him instantly if allowed through his guard. Adelram chuckled "I can feel it Sebastian you are still the same. Your needs are pitiful and your excess is small."

Sebastian smiled, he can see he has gotten better but in the end it's only been about a month. What can change in a month? He pressed his attacks harder, he can see Adelram is no longer parrying his strikes or blocking them. He now has to dodge, Sebastian grinned "I was right you are still weak!" Adelram did not retort his insult.

Sebastian chuckled "I shall end it now." Sebastian thought to use his master stroke feigning an opening and parrying away the strike leaving the opponent open. It all went together in his head. He let down his guard slightly, Adelram moved forward to strike. Sebastian could not help but smile showing his teeth. He parried knocking Adelram's strike back, Sebastian stepped in to imaple him through the gut his mind raced that Adelram will finally be gone. He will disappear, He will truly be superior within the eyes of the dark prince. A great sense of joy and pride swelled his chest
Sebastian blinked and suddenly Adelram's guard was up he then parries his strike with ease. All that joy vanished in an instant. That pride smashed into the dust. Adelram placed his free hand to his belt and drew a combat knife. The combat knife ignited, Sebastian stepped back slightly as Adelram said calmly "What's the matter brother? Are you worried?"

Sebastian bit his lip he charged again, Sebastian scowled Adelram is getting faster, he is parrying all his strikes perfectly. Sebastian soon found Adelram's attacks is getting through his guard small nicks from Adelram's blade and combat knife. As Adelram's weapons drew blood Sebastian could see small purple and pink wisps trailing along his armour and weapons. The wisps moved to the small traces of blood on his weapons.

Adelram stepped in towards him with a swift motion his attacks were like lightning, Sebastian could not keep up. Adelram is now outright breaking his guard, the wisp's trailed about him with each blade motion. Blade strokes were now making gashes in his armour as the blade entered his body he found himself freezing slightly due to the pain. The pain was not enjoyable there was no pleasure in it.

Sebastian tried to step back, he looked around the whole warband has eyes upon what is happening here. They seem far more entrapped by the spectacle Adelram is displaying. Sebastian shouted "I won't be beaten here!" He knew he had to end Adelram here he ignored his defense and went for an all out attack. Adelram casually turns the strike aside with his combat knife.

Sebastian felt time slowing down as his attack was diverted he recognised such a move he has seen it so many times before. He always did the same thing at the corner of his eye he looked at Jedrick. Sebastian looked back to Adelram who is now readying an attack a sick realisation came upon him his technique is far better. His blade work is better. His fighting skill perhaps even surpasses Jedrick.

Time returned to normal as Adelram made a quick cross cut with his blade. Sebastian felt a huge surge of pain in his chest. He has been cut before but this was different. The pain the agony he dropped his blade. He held his chest as it leaked blood he tried to step back but as soon as he took a step he found Adelram's sword at his neck. The flames surrounding the blade vanished it oddly felt cool at his neck.

Sebastian felt a strange emotion building in his chest he did not know what it was. His mind went over what just happened it's not possible. He shouted out loud "It's Impossible!"

Adelram held his blade at Sebastian's neck the cheering stopped, the jeering stopped. There was only a foreboding silence. Adelram looked at Sebastian shouting at it him. Adelram smiled "Tell me Sebastian what just happened?" Sebastian fell silent. Adelram nodded "Now Sebastian kneel. Sebastian looked at him his eyes full of venom "Never!"

Adelarm sighed he sheathed his combat knife and raised his hand. He moved his blade away from Sebastian's neck and pushed down with his free hand. Sebastian slowly moved to his knees then to his hands. Adelram could feel him struggling but it is futile. He did not even have to use his hand if he really wanted to.

Adelram sheathed his blade. He kept Sebastian in place "That is what you are Sebastian. That is your place." Sebastian grunted in pain as he shouted "Kill me! I knew it! You are weak!" Adelram sighed. Adelram looked around they enjoyed the duel but he could tell they don't seem exactly happy with the outcome.

Adelram looked to each of the warband's faces he closed his eyes for a moment and took a breath. He announced "Tell me brothers! Are you happy with how you are now?!" Several Astartes looked at each other and murmured slightly. Adelram nodded "You can see right in front of you! You can see the one that gave you all your "delights" your "joys" but in my eyes Sebastian ruined you!"

Adelram looked down to Sebastian still struggling to rise. Adelram continued "Do you want to know why I do what I do? Why I made every decision?! Look at each other! Tell me! Would our father be proud of what we are?! Would he be pleased with how we are walking the road of suffering!?" Adelram placed his gaze on the warband again he can see they are clearly listening "Do you think he would be impressed with us torturing mewling slaves?! Using our gifts to satisfy ourselves on small base things?!"

Adelram took another breath "This world! This planet should be screaming in agony! The people who refuse us should be slitting their throats at the prospect of us approaching! Our captain! Our Starlight king! Chased after our father like everyone else! That's all we do! Chase after small things! Chase to reach our father!" Adelram clenched both his fists "I want our father to turn his gaze to us! I want his attention! I refuse to go to him! I refuse to chase after him!"

Adelram looked around everyone is staring at him, the Astartes without helmets looked stunned. Marius walked towards him and stopped he looked down to Sebastian and then up to him. He did something that shocked Adelram. Marius said "I want the same thing. Show me this path Adelram." Marius turned to the warband "I want our father to hear our song of suffering and torment if I have to blast apart thousands of worlds I will do it."

Marius raised his hand "For our lord Adelram!" Slowly Astartes started to raise their hands chanting the same thing. Adelram looked to Marius and nodded. He nodded back he looked down to Sebastian who looked utterly defeated. The cheering died down after a moment.
Marius looked to Sebastian he released a low screech. Adelram shook his head "I won't kill him." Marius raised his eyebrow in confusion. Adelram looked Marius in the eye "He is my brother. He is simply misguided and I have forgiven him." Marius eyes shot wide in surprise, Sebastian laughed "See he is still weak.." Adelram chuckled "Sebastian. You misunderstand I have forgiven you that does not mean I am not going to punish you."

Adelram turned to Asriel "Asriel! Come over!" Asriel walked over and bowed "Yes my lord." Adelram nodded "I am going to punish my foolish brother. You will heal him to keep him from dying." Asriel bowed again "Very well." Adelram turned to Sebastian and kneeled down he tapped his cheek "By the way Sebastian I was holding back. Now I shall give you the gift of suffering." Adelram lifted Sebastian's face slighty and what he saw in his eyes is fear.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/19 21:02:27


Post by: lliu


Wonderful. I hope to see the warband return to a galactic scale.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/19 21:13:18


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Wonderful. I hope to see the warband return to a galactic scale.


Hmmmm I wonder.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/20 00:07:35


Post by: shinros


Chapter 20

Uriah stood in front of Isabella's mansion door to him it seemed too gaudy which matched her personality. The door had lined sliver along with gold snake iconography he knocked and waited the door opened and a maid greeted him. She gave a small curtsy as she said "My lady is waiting in her private garden. Please come in." Uriah walked in he did not know why he accepted such an offer of a meeting but it could come out in his favour considering what she has asked.

The maid guided him to Isabella's living room as he walked he noticed Isabella's house had a strange scent to it. The hall had rows upon rows of paintings lining the walls. Some were fairly mundane others quite.. illcit. Being in this house reminds him of his late sister. As they passed through the living room he could see several wine cabinets filled with aged wide.

Uriah could see maids and butlers at work tidying the living room but in his eyes the living room already looked pristine. The maid escorting him lead him through the living room, they stopped at two see through sliding doors. He could see Isabella in the garden drinking a glass of wine by herself at a small table.

The maid bowed slightly "My lady is waiting for you." She opened the doors and gestured Uriah through. As he walked into the garden for some reason instead of the clean air he could still smell a similar but stronger scent that filled the inside of her mansion. Uriah walked over and sat with Isabella. As always Uriah could see she is wearing somewhat revealing clothing looking at her reminded him of his sister even more.

Isabella gave him a coy smile "It's good that you have taken interest in my offer Uriah" Uriah stroked his chin "I have taken interest but that does not mean I have agreed to it yet." Isabella poured herself another glass "You should agree it would benefit us both." Uriah tried to keep his face neutral he did not want to give away any sense of emotion with his response "To join our noble houses? Now let's say we do this who will benefit the most from this?" Isabella sipped some of her wine she licked her lips as she placed the glass down "We will both benefit considering you are the male this new joint house will be in your name."

Uriah folded his arms. He knew it's likely that she is going to "offer" the planetary governor position to him. Hence why she has said the new house will be in his name. Uriah still could not shake the feeling that she is like a snake. Also the rumours of men and women entering her mansion and vanishing.

He played the events of that encounter within his mind. His meeting with skull face the fact that his family line is tainted. Thinking on his dead sister and brother he could see why it would appear that way. Isabella reminded him of his siblings this is something he repeated within his mind so perhaps there is a possibility she is tainted?

How far has this corruption may have possibly gone on for? Could the unknown element be playing the houses or even the imperial forces against each other? Skull face might of actually visited Isabella. Still what is clear to him is that he cannot trust her and he refuses to be under the thumb of someone else.

Uriah smiled "I thank you for the offer Lady Isabella but I must refuse." Uriah watched Isballa giving a large frown "I see. May I ask why?" Uriah narrowed his eyes "I personally wish to find a wife of my own choosing my Lady. I thank you kindly for the offer again but I must refuse."
Isabella tutted slightly "Uriah, you should reconsider." Uriah raised his eyebrow "May I ask why?" Isabella gave him a gentle smile "I know you can feel it. The change on the wind." Uriah did not want to display any confusion in this instance to do so would be weakness "Change? What have you noticed Lady Isabella?" Isabella leaned back slightly in her chair "Do you think we are going to win the war?"

Uriah knew at that moment she might have a connection with skull face "Why do you say that Isabella? You should be careful of such talk." Isabella looked away slightly "Two traitor forces that have made no gains, including ourselves and now a unknown element is at play? Look at how long this war is going for whoever is in the background is delaying the conclusion for a reason."

Uriah's mind drifted to the regicide game with skull face. How he utterly surrounded his pieces and defeated him he wondered what if that is the current situation? Perhaps skull face visited him because the end game is approaching? The fact he infiltrated his mansion with ease skull face could kill him at any moment. Considering how heavily guarded the noble area is and the mansions of the three themselves.
How far is skull faces reach? As he thought those words he remembered his mother she died at the age of 88. She never told him her history but she did tell him that her luck started to change when she was about 18 years of age. If he belived skull face he has been planning this for the past 70 years?

A bead of sweat ran down his forehead it's rare that he ever felt like this his whole life his whole family line was moved about for his whim? What reason would skull face have to do such a thing? He looked up to Isabella who seemed somewhat calm. Uriah spoke out loud in disbelief "I have set the stage to make it so."

Isabella raised her eyebrow at his proclamation "Is something wrong Uriah?" Uriah quickly rose from his seat and gave a small bow "Apologies let me think on your offer I have to leave now." Uriah rushed out thinking as he said under his breath "There is no way..."

Jacob sat in his office, night has set in and he had his table lamp on to illuminate the work he is doing. He had the data from his communication device extracted and placed to paper everything he handled personally considering the nature of the information. After he was done he had the device destroyed.

The third lord general posted to this planet had some ancestry connected to this planet his name Is Lucas Abnov. Jacob started with the first memoir entry

Entry 1


I have been posted to this position after my victory on another planet during this dark age.I heard news of the previous lord general's being murdered within their offices. The emperor guides me I have no fear this is the home of my mother and I will see it free.
The first thing I did was place the civilians in a specific area for housing and had the rest of the inner city placed in the hands of the imperial guard for various uses. I sent out many scouting teams to asses and gather information on the size of the forces we are facing.


Jacob stroked his chin his mind drifted to the map, it's through old reports that he put that together it seems Lucas was the one who set the foundation. He moved to the second entry.

Entry 2

I have observed the traitor forces, I have a good idea of the area's they control. I also decided to up the guard on the noble quarter. The previous general's were killed how one lone assassin could get to the Lord General's quarters and kill him is beyond me.
We are steadily making gains on the traitor forces since I decided to change strategy slightly. We would wait for them to hit each other let them wear themselves down and finally move in and take the area for ourselves.


Jacob nodded in approval he could see it would be a good stratergy it's clear to him that the traitor forces are fighting each other they could save manpower and lives by attacking them after they wear each other down.

Entry 3


For some reason we have been losing our bases, whenever we take an area the whole team suddenly vanish. When we go to investigate there are signs of combat but no corpses. Only dried blood could be seen on the ground. I have seen how the traitor forces fight it's always a masscare of body parts or a sense of decay has gripped the general area.
I will have to revise our strategy
.

Jacob licked his lips he is facing a similar problem he guessed all the lord generals faced this problem but he is the one who most likely made the most gains considering his memoirs were taken by his "friend".

Entry 4

Now our scouting teams have started to vanish. Someone must know our strategy or leaking it. So I have decided to commit to a purge of personel and civilians. It was a grim day but nesscary I had the feeling someone was leaking our plans. I also put the nobles under a extremely strict curfew of 16:00 hours.
This did not go over well but it was necessary. I also had the men at the gates cycled out every day.


Jacob held his chin sometimes purges are necessary but he also decided to purge his forces also. Plus he put the nobles under strict curfew he would be hated by many but he could understand why he has done so.

Entry 5

It seems my plan is working yes my decision has ruffled feathers but it seems to be working we are pushing back the traitor's steadily and enlarging our area of control. We have to advance more slowly due to the purges and because the men at the gates are cycled out it won't be exactly clear where the men are heading out to.
Still at night I feel a strange breeze at my neck.


Jacob went over the entry again he knew this must be the point the "angel" got involved it must be.

Entry 6

This will not be an easy entry to write. For what has just occured but this might be the key to ending the war.
I sat in my office at night going over strategy and the breeze at my neck would not go away. I left to grab myself a cup of coffe and as I returned I found my window opened. I moved to close it and as I turned I saw someone sitting in front of my desk. The person wore a skull helmet and a black cape that seemed to melt into the darkness strange feathers also seemed to float around it.

I assumed this must be the person who killed the last two lord general's if he got past the guard with ease I would not be able to kill him here. If I called out it's most likely he will kill me and leave. Considering he has not done so yet I decided to gain information he is here to talk.
As I sat in my chair I simply asked him what he wanted he told me that he simply grew interested in me. In my stratergy and what I am doing. That I am the first to force him to adapt. I then asked a second question I asked him is he a part of the two traitor forces that we are facing he gave a firm no. He told me he also has an interest in keeping both traitor forces off balance.
I felt my mouth drying at the time as I asked my third question I asked the intruder whether he is going to kill me he simply said maybe. I then blinked and suddenly he was gone. It was like he vanished.


Jacob ran his hands through his hair it's clear the "angel" decided to kill him since Lucas has departed this world to the emperor's side. Jacob ran through his head that he is the 10th lord general to be stationed on this planet.

Entry 7

Again he visited me he told me again that he was impressed that I started to pull conscripts from the civilians. The fact that I also put the conscripts through a rigorous program to check that they can be trusted to do their jobs. Most would stuff a lasgun in their hands give them some basic training and send them on their way.

I knew in that moment that he most likely has many eyes within the inner city itself. One thing that suprised me though is that he started to talk about the time he killed nobles or toppled the criminal empires. He made note that I am a native of this planet and he wonders if I heard the stories. I told him I did and that the actions of the angel is almost held in reverance on this planet. I did point out that it's only on my mother's side and that I am half cadian.
Still he asked whether I believe the stories? That many whisper that the angel will come to smite the enemies of mankind. I told him that the angel is evil and a simple murderer and most likely a heretic. My "guest" seemed to almost nod in approval. I pushed further to ask why he keeps visiting to me. He then told me he wanted to understand the sort of man I am before he kills me.


Jacob knew in this moment that the angel is a force of evil a insidious sort of evil to drag on a war for this long. The question is why he is doing this

Entry 8

Now for some reason we are no longer making any gains. Advancement has ground to a halt it's almost a slugging fest out there between all forces. Also patrols go missing, whole squads of cadian veterans go missing.
He visited me in the night again. I asked how is he doing this he simply told me that actions have consequences. I asked the "angel" to elaborate. He told me that he does indeed have eyes within the city. He actually has many eyes in the city now due to my actions. He had eyes even among the soldiers.

He knows when they will move. He knows what I am planning and which area's I am planning to take. He tells me that before that I was right that the angel is evil. Yet he pointed out that I am also evil. I retroted at that those on the side of the emperor do no evil. He simply told me to tell that to the people who were purged. Many of those people had families. The soldiers had strong nit brotherhoods that were torn apart.
He left with the words to not underestimate the evil that one would do for the sake of family and friends.


Jacob held the paper tightly. He could see that Lucas did nothing wrong sometimes things like that are nesscary. Jacob noted that there are only two pages left.

Entry 9

I decided to do another purge this time it targeted anyone connected to those who were linked to those purged in the past. I have also decided to make a "donation" to the Schola Progenium young children of the noble families and those living in the civilian area. People raged at my decision but I made it regardless. Going over the war strategy again the same thing keeps repeating. Our men vanishing neither side advancing or gaining anything.

The angel came again he questioned me on my decision to send the children away. I told him that it's for the sake of the future. The angel pressed his point saying that I have given up winning the war with that decision. He also noted that my decision to do another purge has landed even more people into his pocket. Even some nobles due to their children being taken they have started to aid him

He told me he has now grown bored of me as he relaxed in the chair at the front of my desk. I personally did not care for his boredom I am not here to entertain him. I did ask him why is he engaging with me in discussion. Before departing in usual fashion he told me that he is using me as a warning. I wonder how he is going to do such a thing?


Jacob hoped to learn something but it seems he got a general summary of the angel more than anything. He knows he is important or a possible key and that he is not on the side of emperor that is clear enough. Jacob looked at the last entry it seems only half done.

Entry 10


Tonight as I write this I feel a chilling breeze at my neck. I can feel the hairs on my neck standing on end.
Still things are turning out even worse. My men are going awol, squads are still vanishing and no progress is being made. I look around me and I don't know who to trust. Everyone could be a spy. Even my own advisors could be in with the enemy. I don't even know whether the communication staff might also be working for the angel. I wonder sometimes is this truly divine punishment?
Even now I wonder who is the angel working for? What does he hope to gain by sabotaging everyone? Prolonging this saga or despair, pain, agony and death? I-


Jacob had a grim thought while writing this entry is when Lucas most likely died. Jacob recalled the men being excuted for desertion. It's still quite an issue something he is trying to fix. Reading Lucas's word's a thought crossed his mind that this issue might of been happening since the war started.

Even so Jacob has thought on doing a purge since every movement of the army is being predicted since reading Lucas's words he now knows doing such a thing would be futile. Jacob strangly seemed at a loss of what to do. Most of what Lucas tried he was going to do. He wondered did every general in the past do the same thing?

Jacob placed the paper on the desk trying to think of a possible stratergy.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/21 05:28:45


Post by: shinros


Chapter 21

Noxus sat in the rhino excitement is gripping him he did not care if he is physically displaying it to everyone but finally they are going to deal with the Death guard. Soon as Adelram took control he announced that they are going to end them to everyone's surprise. Noxus looked around the rhino. Adelram sat in silence, Jedrick is sharpening his axe and Marthas looked to be praying. Silas took the skies with his raptors. Noxus thought about Silas for a moment he found it odd how eagerly his raptors decided to follow him again. Marius and his noise marines have a rhino of their own he disliked riding with them since they constantly sing on the way to battle. He enjoyed the fine arts of music but not Marius's kind.

Noxus looked at Marthas' weapon for some reason he liked staring at it. If he stared at it long enough he could hear a faint song. Noxus leaned back in his seat one thing that puzzled him is that Adelram did not bring his creature with him. Noxus eyed Adelram he could not tell what he is thinking now before he was rather predictable.

Noxus asked "Adelram. Where is your crea- I mean Asriel. I saw him in discussion with you after you were done tormenting Sebastian." Adelram looked at him directly his blue eye lenses shimmering Adelram said "He has gone to the inner city to prepare it for us. Asriel called it the "end game." Marthas gave a small laugh "knowing his imagination I wonder what he is going to do."

Noxus gave a thought to what exactly the creature is going to do. Considering he has a neverborn within him and a greater shard at that. It's clear he wields power since Adelram tore off Sebastian's skin with his psychic powers and Asriel repaired it in a few minutes with ease. Sebastian's "punishment" lasted almost an hour reducing Sebastian to a mere shell. Even so Sebastian still had that arrogant look about him even though he now rarely speaks. He also recalled that Adelram had Sebastian stripped of his wargear and had him chained up. Right now he is being guarded by the tech priest Caius, he has his servitors mounted with heavy guns that is trained on Sebastian 24/7.

Noxus sighed he itched to get to fighting to his surprise Adelram began speaking "Noxus." Noxus perked up "Yes?" Adelram held the chin of his helmet slightly "Do tell me how did Sebastian secure these Rhino's?" Noxus thought on his question he shrugged "These are actually are our old Rhino's we found them at various parts of the city. I guess not only people were sent here." Adelram nodded in understanding.

Noxus moved to ask Adelram a question there is a specific reason why Sebastian has not moved to destroy the death guard and he wondered if Adelram has the means to defeat them. Noxus folded his arms as he asked "Adelram, you are aware of the defences of the Death guard? Do you have the means to get past it?"

Adelram removed his helmet and smiled at him, Noxus flinched he hated when he does that, Adelram looked out of the driver's window "I do. Still I will need everyone's help to do so." Noxus raised his eyebrow in confusion "So wha-" Suddenly the rhino halted. Adelram placed his helmet back on and moved to get up "Right everyone. Let's deal with our cousins."

Noxus stepped out of the rhino he could see the whole warband is here. Looking around this area of the city it had strange growths. Tentacles, boils and pus oozing on buildings and as he took a step a strange green like substance sticks to his feet. He could even see flowers bellowing out a strange green mist.

He soon looked forward and saw it a strange green wall of swirling green mist. He heard rumours in the old camp from Astartes who ventured this far but has never seen it personally he heard stories of how the warband tested the wall with slaves those who get too close simply disintegrate. He could also see thousands upon thousands of flies circling the mist. Adelram stopped next to him gazing at the wall "Asriel has detailed the specifics of this "wall" to me. I can deal with it considering the sorcerer who placed it here is now dead. Still it's more of a dome than a wall." Noxus turned to Adelram "Which Sorcerer?" Adelram did not answer perhaps it's something he did not want to talk about.

Noxus looked to the wall again "How can we be sure that we can beat whoever is on the other side?" Adelram walked forward slightly and placed his hands around his back "We can handle it. Asriel scouted beyond the wall he warded himself to do so he has said that the Death guard actually are not great in number. A bulk of their forces is actually the humans of this city." Noxus thought on what he just heard he did notice that whenever they fought the death guard they had a great number of cultists. The issue is that even if they kill their masters the cultists make poor slaves due to all the unnatural diseases they are carrying. It became policy to kill and destroy everything touched by the Death guard.

Adelram suddenly drew his blade to Noxus' surprise he ignites it, Adelram walked forward a few paces and turns to everyone. He pointed his blade at the wall Adelram announced "I am going to tear down the edifices of the plague god! His power will not hold sway here any longer! Yet I will need time! Time all of you will give me!" Everyone released a cheer. Noxus looked around he did not cheer he is still not sure how exactly Adelram is going to tear it down. Caution has always served him well it's what kept him alive so far.
Adelram walked back to the rhino, Noxus can see everyone getting into position. Noxus drew his sword with a flourish. He can see everyone is eager a proper battle is approaching. Behind him he can hear Adelram starting to chant. Noxus focused on what is front of him since anything can happen. This place is filled with the power of the plague god and they will have to be prepared for that.

Noxus waited all he could hear is Adelram chanting and the buzzing of the flies. The unnatural boils on the buildings popping. Noxus closed his eyes thinking that perhaps this might be his moment. He is within Adelram's circle. He is his own marine he does not follow anyone. Everyone will be watching for potential stars.

Noxus opened his eyes as he heard a gurgled chant. The droning of prayer, suddenly a tide of cultists pour out of the wall of mist. Jedrick shouts an order"Open fire! Don't let them get close!" Havoc's and Marius' noise marines begin firing into the crowd of cultists. Heads exploding, limbs torn off and those hit by the sound waves are reduced to a red mist.

Those of their number who had bolters began rapid firing into the tide of cultists. Noxus can see several cultists heading straight towards him. He held his blade with both hands he waited he had to do this at the right moment. Noxus counted 4 cultists all holding plague touched knives.
Noxus took several slow breaths as they got close he swung his sword sideways bisecting all 4 cultists in a clean stroke. He can see Jedrick annihilating any cultists that seem to get close to the havoc's. Marthas kills cultists three at a time with each weapon movement. Noxus can see That Marthas' movements were... unnatural. As his weapon moved it screamed a ear splitting sound. As the weapon cracked into a cultist a song began emanating from his weapon.

Noxus can see at this moment he is no match for either of them but that can change. He has to be better. He has to get better in order to get their wish. Adelram's wish is everyone's wish. Noxus hacked apart two more cultists with clean sword movements. As time went on the cultists numbers were whittling down.

For some reason he can't help but feel somewhat impressed these men and women are gladly running to their deaths. At least he can use them to appear better to practice his blade work. The true challenge has not arrived yet. As he thought this another cultist came charging towards him. Noxus casually impaled the cultist.The man is still reaching forward trying to kill him.

Noxus looked the cultist over he looked ugly and diseased. Honestly he thought they should be killed just be their looks alone. Noxus removed his blade and and with a swift motion he removed the head of the cultist. Noxus looked around to see everyone killing the last dregs of the death guard cultists. Noxus wondered where is Silas and his raptors? They would of killed them more quickly if they actually helped.

Noxus sighed and readied himself again he had to remind himself in this place the plague god holds sway. He had to tell himself that he should focus on himself not on others. He waited a for seconds nothing else came out of the wall of mist. He looked around to see confusion among the warband.

Adelram's chant is still going, Noxus took a quick look behind him he can see Adelram is glowing, a pink mist is swirling around him along with pink eldritch fire dancing over his armour and sword. Adelram is holding his blade with two hands while chanting. The blade is pointing upwards. Noxus looked foward he wondered why the Death guard have not come out yet? Suddenly he felt someone grabbing his leg. He looked down a dead cultist began moving. The cultist looked up showing a large grin with yellow teeth. All the carcasses around him started to move surging up wards. Jedrick made another command "Fire upon the dead bodies!" Noxus swiped his sword around his legs chopping off the arms of the cultists reaching for him.

Noxus stepped back slightly wondering just what in the name of the dark prince he is seeing. All the cultists they killed have began to rise again. Tentacle like growths is erupting from their skin. Boils are enlarging. At once all of the risen cultists released a deathly rasp. At once all of them surged forwards. The havoc's with heavy bolters began blasting into their lines.

This time they did not stop, they held no concern for mortal injuries even if arms and limbs were blown off. Noxus began losing form he began swinging away just to cut down the risen cultists. He can see some Astartes are being overwhelmed and dragged down. He cursed the same is occuring to him. Some malign intelligence is guiding them picking at certain people.

The risen cultists swarmed over him he is going to be dragged down as he heard the sound of a jet pack. Silas crashed in front of him along with his squad blowing back the risen cultists. Noxus scowled "What took you so long!" Silas shrugged "I wanted to choose the perfect moment for my entrance." Noxus ground his teeth in annoyance who did Silas think he is what did he think he could do with just his unit. Silas turned away from him he held his hand up to the raptors who were advancing with him Silas said "I got this. Just watch and learn." he leaped into the air and crashed down again into the middle of the pack of risen cultists. The cultists sensed prey they can easily overwhelm. They moved to pile on Silas, Noxus smiled he knew that Silas has done something foolish he is going to get dragged down and killed.
As the first risen cultist approached Silas his sword arm moved Noxus could not even see the motion the cultist's head simply toppled away from his shoulders. Using his jet pack to aid him he began slicing apart the cultists. It was almost like a dance. A sliver blade cutting through air anything that made contact with it died. The cultist did not get up again.

He moved and twisted through the crowd bisecting, slicing off arms, heads and legs. Noxus bit his lip. He can see clear as day Silas is essentially stealing the show. At once many of the risen cultists assaulting their lines turned away and moved to kill Silas. Noxus looked around to see no one is moving to help.

As the cultists moved in Silas jumped high into the air with his jetpack he turned mid air and dived down almost head first to pick up speed. As fell downwards he straightened his body and as he approached the horde of risen cultists he activated his jet pack again pushing him forwards. He twisted spinning with his blade slicing apart the risen in a straight line towards the Rhino's. As his speed slowed down he rolled and landed one knee in front of Jedrick. Jedrick scoffed "Show off." Silas rose and gave a bow "I aim to impress Jedrick."
Noxus clenched his hands in frustration. With that spectacle everyone had eyes on Silas. Noxus can see that Silas's act dealt with almost half of the horde. Jedrick pointed forward with his axe "Advance!" As he yelled the command Adelram's chanting finally stopped.The warband stopped in their tracks.

Noxus looked behind him, He could see the mist and flame is gathering to Adelram's sword mixing together. Adelram raised his sword with both hands he slashed downwards releasing a large wave of pink fire. Noxus can see the fire and mist mixed together hurtling straight towards him. Instinct made him cover his face the wave washed over him yet he felt nothing. He could hear rasps of the risen cultists. Noxus turned forward to see they are burning to ashes.
The energy is moving with a life of it's own consuming anything touched by the hand of the plague god. The boils twisted and changed into beautiful flowers, the tentacles shuddered and wrapped around the buildings turning into tree vines. Smaller versions of the flowers sprouting upon them.

As it touched the rotted flowers spewing green gas, colour soon returned and a pink mist bellowed out of it. Finally when it reached the wall of mist it became consumed in a pink inferno. The flies caught in the flame began burning distorting and finally popped into pink flower petals that moved in the wind.

Noxus grabbed a petal and looked around he smiled. He could see everyone is in awe of what has just occurred. Noxus looked to Adelram he is kneeling on the ground using his blade to support himself. Noxus could see doing this took a lot out of him but from here it's the warbands time to shine.

Noxus looked towards the burning wall The flame began dying down and finally the wall of mist vanished. Noxus dropped the petal he readied himself for battle again in the distance he can see the Death guard Astartes. They looked clearly ready for combat he counted roughly the number of Death Guard Astartes he smiled at the thought that just from looking that Adelram is right they are not great in number. He could actually see that it is likely the warband outnumbers the death guard

Noxus nodded he said under his breath "Now here comes the fun part." Noxus searched for the leader considering what Silas just did he can't be cautious he has to stand out. He traced his eyes over the enemy again. He spotted the Lord. He wore terminator armour he has a large horn bursting through the forehead of his helmet and he wielded a giant two handed axe.

Jedrick pointed forward "Charge! Slay them all!" Everyone roared in approval everyone charged. Noxus licked his lips in anticipation. As Noxus ran towards them he could see the Death guard are not cheering. Or even issuing orders they are just standing ready to take the charge.
Noxus breathed in and out just a few more seconds until the clash. Noxus eyed Plague marine standing near the Lord. He pointed his blade forward, Noxus smiled as they finally they clashed together. Noxus imapled the Death guard Astartes he did not seem phased in the slightest. Noxus removed his blade and moved to make another attack. The plague marine drew a rusted blade covered in green slime.

Noxus curled his lip in disgust. He did not even want his blade to make contact with such a thing. Noxus stepped back slightly he decided to simply dodge his attacks and wait for an opening. Noxus can see clearly the plague marine's blade work is shoddy. He waited for the plague marine to make another attack he simply dodged to his left and speared his sword into his neck he twisted removing his head.

The plague marine crumpled to the ground. Noxus nodded in satisfaction he searched the brawl for the lord. After a moment he could see him hacking one of their own in half with his axe. When he saw that he froze. He wondered could he truly kill him? He is wearing terminator armour so it will not be easy to cut through and he is favoured by the plague god. Yet if he could kill him if he did. Everyone will look to him. He will be one of the favoured in the warband.

Noxus gripped his blade he shouted "Forget caution! Your head is mine!" Noxus charged towards the nurgle lord his back is turned. Noxus smiled he could get a preemptive strike. He readied his blade to slash the nurgle lord in the back as he got close. He is now a few paces he raised his blade readying to strike as he finally got close he bought it down. Noxus mind raced his back is still turned he might even kill him with this blow.

Yet with unnatural speed the nurgle lord turned around he swatted away his strike with his hand. The nurgle lord then placed both his hands on his axe and moved to swing side ways. Noxus tried to block he twisted his blade to his right side to try and block he caught the strike barely but he found for some reason the nurgle lord's axe is cutting through his blade. His blade is eroding it is starting to rust.

The nurgle lord sliced through shattering his blade, Noxus felt his axe cleaving through his body a surge of pain erupted in his body. The axe kept going and suddenly he felt himself tumbling to the ground. The lower half of his body felt a great burning sensation. Noxus grit his teeth the pain is too much he tried to move he could not feel his lower body or his arms.

Soon pink flower petals began falling upon his body, suddenly he felt calm. The pain went way he just felt tired for some reason. He wanted to close his eyes.

He blinked, the nurgle lord is standing over him raising his axe. His eyes began to feel more heavy with each blink. He could see the axe descending upon him. As his vision began darkening he saw small pink flashes he soon heard a gurgling scream. The scream reverberated in his mind he then heard someone calling his name until finally he closed his eyes.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/22 02:35:44


Post by: shinros


Chapter 22

Noxus felt like he is floating like a feather drifting in the air but he could not move he could not see either his vision is simply pure darkness. He tried to move his hands the thought to move them is there trying to commit the action nothing occurred he feels nothing. Next his legs the same occurred he tried to speak no words would come out of his mouth. He can think of what he wants to say but no words would come.

The last thing he recalled is the battle with the death guard he aimed to be a star he is going to kill the nurgle lord. The thought of killing the leader and then pain. Pure agonising pain. He then felt tired and felt or wanted to sleep and after that the gurgling scream reverberated in his mind and someone was calling out to him.

Noxus tried to blink rapidly to perhaps clear his vision in the end the same darkness filled his vision. Another thing is that his head seemed to be stuck in one place. In his vision a small pink petal floated past him the only thing of colour in the darkness he tried to drift forward it he tried to move to chase it but he could not move. He tried to focus on the moving petal instead it seemed like it is trying to lead him.

Focusing on the petal as it moved through the darkness an iron coffin appeared before him the petal circled the coffin. To him it looked ugly and cold at first but the more he looked at it he realised that it seemed almost inviting. That it won't be cold but filled with warmth the coffin is heavily stylised a mix of iron and bone. The petal moved onward, the wide cold galaxy is bought into his view across the galaxy he could see the scar. A warp scar splitting the galaxy in half. One side full of light and the other full of darkness and terror.
The petal continued to move the picture now bleeding away he saw a tree. A tree bearing apples all of them looked different Noxus noted that there are four types. One looked clean and pristine, one shone with an unnatural light, the third bore tiny gnaw holes and the fourth seemed to be covered in a small amount of blood. Noxus looked at the apples he wanted to eat the shiny one horror filled his breast as the apples began to wither and change a great power or being twisting it to it's own ends. He tried to see who it is all he caught is a flash of an oddly familiar smile.

The image bled away and he felt tired again he wanted to sleep like before. As darkness filled his vision again he closed his eyes.

Adelram looked up to the large tube of green liquid, wires and machinery covered it there is even a small vox built in just in case the occupant awakens. It also kept the occupant alive. He touched it with his hand and sighed. He wanted him to get past the battle unscathed even though they killed all the death guard to the last man they lost a few of their own. Due to their plagues the gene-seed of the dead emperor's children could not be harvested.

Still he is the first Adelram said his named out loud "Noxus". Adelram recalled when he told him of his plans with the warband Noxus was so excited then. Jedrick and the others said to let him die that he is not worth it but he couldn't for some reason. Noxus is the first to hear of his vision he has the right to see the end.

Adelram looked around Caius' workshop, Caius is tinkering away at his table and Sebastian is silent in the corner chained up while servitors have guns trained on him Sebastian has not said a word since the duel. Adelram can tell that Sebastian still has some fight in him even though he subjected him to his punishment.

Adelram heard the doors of Caius' workshop opening considering the sound of the footsteps he knows it's an Astartes. He turned to see that it is Jedrick.

Jedrick walked up to him and looked up to the tube and folded his arms in annoyance "I shall ask again why are you keeping him alive?" Adelram turned his head slightly to the tube "because I want to Jedrick." Jedrick shook his head "Noxus was never that strong or skilled he barely even stood out. I still wonder why he aimed for the Death guard lord." Adelram smiled as he looked up to Noxus "Noxus had something to prove of course." Adelram eyed Noxus up and down half of his body is missing, even his hands are missing.

It took much of his power to stop the curse on the Death guard lord's weapon. The plague afflicted upon Noxus began eating away at his body. In almost a few minutes the lower half of the body left behind rotted away along with the power armour. Adelram looked to Noxus features they are still perfect even after what he has been through.

Adelram turned to Jedrick again who still looked visibly frustrated he tapped one of his feet slightly in irritation "So what are you going to do with him then?" Adelram removed his helmet he looked up to Noxus again "I have an i-" Jedrick cut him off "You are really going to do that? We don't even have the resources." Adelram smiled gently "As I said Jedrick I have an idea, I will go through with it but I will do my best to accommodate him. Trust me."

Jedrick shrugged "Fine. Still whenever someone is put into one of those things they go Insane. I still think it's better to k-" A sound came from the tube both Adelram and Jedrick turned to it in shock. Noxus' mouth began moving he began to speak ++A coffin of iron and bone will be one's new home as we move to the stars we will see a mar of scars. A garden full of opulence where people jump, scream and pray yelling at the gods to shine upon them all. A tree of delight's will be in sight a great being will twist and torch certain delights in sight .++

Adelram eyes went wide a large grin line his features "Did you hear that Jedrick?!" Adelram turned to Jedrick he removed his helmet and scratched his head "That came from the speaker right?" Adelram shook his head "No. He spoke to us! He spoke to us here!" Adelram tapped his head. Caius came walking over going by his movements he could see he is confused "Astartes Adelram are you messing with the equipment?" Adelram grabbed Caius and looked directly at him he found himself jubilant he is now confident of what he is going to do with Noxus "Caius. I want you to prepare a dreadnought coffin for my brother." Adelram smiled again " A coffin of Iron and bone. I want your complete attention on this!" Caius nodded in approval. Adelram released Caius and turned to the tube excitement gripping him.

Commissar Liam sat in his office polishing his bolt pistol he did this to remind himself of his duty. The weight of executing cowards and traitors at first he had a heavy heart but due to the horrors of this dark age he had to steel it. He had to close his ears to the screams of the soldiers he had to close his heart to their suffering. He could not allow himself to understand to understand will cause him to falter in his duty.

Liam murmured "I had to execute ten soldiers today." for some reason the amount of conscripts going awol or outright abandoning their posts has increased dramatically. It's getting to the point that he is executing conscript squads everyday. What's even more worrying is that they heard nothing from the traitor forces. So far they have only fought the diseased ones and even then they seem more like a rag tag band trying to get away from something.

Liam felt a cold breeze at his neck he turned around slightly to his opened window he saw the stars and the cicatrix maledictum marring the sky. He turned away in reflex and muttered a small prayer it has been said that it's bad luck to look directly at it. Liam placed his polished bolt pistol on the desk. The cold breeze assaulted his neck again but it is far colder than before Liam rubbed his neck. As he placed his hands back down on the desk someone grab him around the neck.

He struggled he tried to reach for his bolt pistol a knife is placed near his eye. He froze, who ever his assailant is did not seem like he wanted to kill him yet. Liam heard a low unnatural chuckle gritting his teeth he said "Who are you heretic!" the assailant spoke his voice distorting slightly "An angel." Liam's blood ran cold "You are a myth!" The angel gave another low chuckle "So many myth's are true and Commissar Liam and don't bother calling for help the men on this corridor are mine." Liam's heart began beating rapidly, the soldiers guarding the hall are cadians they are not conscripts why would they be heretics after all that has happened to them?

The angel seemed to have read his mind as the Angel said "many of them have been on this planet for so long. Fighting this long war. Friends have died. Brothers and sisters have died. They feel the imperium is not doing enough if they did their planet would still be here. I actually agree with them if the imperium sent an Astartes force to reinforce you perhaps you could of done something. Not everyone here think's the same Commissar."
Liam tried to calm himself down "So what are you going to do heretic? Kill me?" The angel fell silent for a few moments and spoke a single word "Yes." Liam began struggling something began wrapping around his body. The strange thread soon reached his face covering it completely he screamed but it came out as a muffle.

Velisha sat in her room contemplating what may have happened to her lord. He has not sent any flies to her recently she tries to speak to the ones that hover about her mansion but they are silent. If they do say something instead of a buzzing sound it is a gargled scream of anger. She held her hands together and gave a small prayer to the grandfather. She wore her veil in thanks to him when she was afflicted by disease her late husband sought priests and talented doctors.

Her husband did all he could but found no success, back then she was ready to die but when the day came when the disease pained her the most. So She prayed. She prayed to anyone to help her and a small fly came it buzzed gently comforting her.
The pain soon went away and after a few days and the deliberating effects of the disease vanished. What she found oddly amusing is that her husband soon fell to the same illness and it claimed him in a few days the flies comfort her in her sadness even now. The flies buzzed that her husband is in a better place.

Still Velisha frowned if her lord has not contacted her that means the war is shifting. Perhaps it is the unknown element? She looked out of the window it's night but for some reason it's far more noisy than usual. Velisha shrugged her flies will protect her she even refused guards, she actually lives by herself she found the solitude comforting since no one is here she can listen to the flies more intently.

She placed her head on her pillow and tried to sleep, perhaps even put together a plan to win this city for the grandfather and her lord. Her eyes slowly shut. A large thud sound came suddenly from her door. She looked up to the door for a moment and placed her head down again. Velisha heard another thud again she gazed at the door. She squinted her eyes and smiled joyfully "Perhaps it's a message of sorts?!" Velisha hopped out of her bed her black night gown waving at her ankles She opened her door at looked out into the dark hallway. Flies are hovering at parts of the wall as always. She stepped out of the hallway and looked around. A cold breeze brushed at her neck she turned and looked down the dark hallway. For some reason fear started to creep into her heart she calmed herself by breathing in and out "The flies always protect me when there is an intruder why am I worried?" Velisha said out loud. Still she stared down the hallway it seemed like the darkness is moving there is a scratching sound coming from the ceiling.

Out of the darkness on the ceiling something is crawling towards her it seemed like a strange creature with a bellowing cape feathers hovered about it. Velisha took a step back, the creature stopped. She began taking several paces back her mouth quivering. The creature looked at her directly the creature had a skull for a face that moved like a living one. A black tongue snake like tongue flicked out it had deep blue eyes that blinked and the teeth were fangs.

The creature began rapidly moving towards her, she broke into run she has to get out of the mansion. The fear came back her breathing increased rapidly she had to steady her thoughts. At the moment she is currently on the second floor the front door is not too far Valisha shouted "Grandfather! Help me! Please!" She continued to run the flies did nothing.

For some reason tears ran down her face the fear of death coming back to her the memories of when the disease gripped her. She could see the stairs she called out again "Grandfather! Please help your daughter!" the flies in the corridor finally began to move. Velisha turned her head back slightly the flies are moving to swarm the creature.

Velisha stopped and turned to it she pointed smiling "See! The grandfather protects his children!" The creature began to chant and the flies swarming it were consumed in pink flames. Velisha began shaking again the creature began advancing slowly if any fly got close they were burned to ashes.

Velisha quickly turned away and continued to run reaching the stairs She ran down and rushed to the door. She grabbed the handle and went at work to undo the lock and turned the handle to open the door yet it won't open. She roughly turned the handle again her hands beginning to sweat at the motion

The creature is still on the ceiling coming towards her. She turned her back to the door slowly and slid downwards to her bottom. The creature stopped it looked at her again, Velisha tried to calm herself thoughts filled her mind of the possibility that the creature is not here to kill her.The creature began opening it's mouth the jaws unhinging it rapidly move towards her she screamed.

Isabella lay in her bed with lovers a maid and a butler who served in her mansion. A coy smiled her lips in actually all of them are her lovers Isabella thought to herself. Both were sleeping she felt the need to freshen up. She gently got off her bed and put on her night gown on and left her room to go to the bathroom. She rubbed her neck in annoyance Uriah did not accept her offer most noble males would jump at the possibility to marry her and join houses. Yet he refused but what bothered her most of all were his last words "I will set the stage to make it so."

Isabella wondered if Uriah is also connected to the powers like she is. In her garden a snake visited her it whispered so many things. The voice was also quite charming as well. The snake introduced itself as Sebastian he wanted to learn things and in exchange he will show her a bounty of delights.

Ever since conversing with the snake her tastes changed she loved drinking vintage wine, her joy of art increased and a far more increased need to share her bed with someone and the fact many young nobles offering their hands in marriage to her. All she did was tell the snake a few things whenever it came.

Still the snake stopped visiting. Isabella moved to a plan to try and get Uriah to take herself as a wife. It's clear enough that Uriah is favoured to become the new planetary governor it's obvious to everyone within the noble area. As she reached the bathroom a cold breeze brushed her neck gently making her hair stand on end. She rubbed her neck and stepped into the bathroom.

She walked over to the sink and washed her face. Isabella moved to open the cabinet above the sink, one odd thing is that she can't help but stare at the mirror for a few moments. To admire her looks or correct it in this case it's to admire. She smiled and opened the cabinet and picked out a small towel to wipe her face. Satisfied the towel is placed back within the cabinet.

Isabella closed the door and looked at the mirror again, her heartbeat slowed starting at the mirror there is someone standing behind her. A man wearing a skull helmet along with a hooded cloak. She turned slowly Isabella opened her mouth to scream and instantly the man placed his hands on her mouth.

The man placed one finger to the lips of the skull helmet "Ssssh. I am here to talk Lady Isabella." Isabella found herself breathing heavily through her nose she nodded slowly. The man removed his hand slowly. Isbaella took a gulp in a situation of negotiation as always she tried to speak first "So I take it you are part of the unknown element?" The man wearing the skull helmet chuckled "Indeed. I am quite impressed the current general figured out that much."

Isabella held her gown tightly trying not to appear nervous before him "Are you here to kill me?" The man shook his head "If I was going to kill you. You would be dead. The maid in your bed right now would of done it for me while you slept." Isabella's eyes went wide she tried to calm herself "I see. So what do you want?" The man moved to the door and leaned back on it "Asriel." Isabella raised her eyebrow in shock "You are giving your name so freely?" Asriel nodded "Indeed. I think we can come to an understanding."

Isabella felt her heart calming down slightly "What sort of understanding?" Isabella watched Asriel pull a knife from his belt and twirl it in his hands "I want you to serve my lord." Isabella grew confused and covered her mouth slightly thinking that maybe he is an agent of Sebastian she removed her hand from her mouth and smiled "I assume you work for Sebastian?" Asriel stopped twirling his knife and gripped the handle tightly, Isabella felt she said something she shouldn't have "No I do not serve him." Asriel said firmly after he said that Isabella noted his voice softened as he said his next words "Sebastian has now been put in his place. The true lord is coming and I personally don't want to kill you. You have skills that my lord will possibly need in the future."

Isabella thought about his offer if she refused it's clear Asriel will kill her. Asriel stood up right he looked at her and gestured his hand out "So Lady Isabella what is your choice?"


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/22 02:37:35


Post by: shinros


It took me a whole book and 21 chapters of the second one to realise I am using he and she way too much. Soo I looked up better sentence structuring advice on the net, so enjoy. Oh and I am terrible at writing poetry.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/22 03:52:24


Post by: lliu


I actually really like how you put both the power and military struggles into the story, so it’s not just one dimensional.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/22 14:54:08


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
I actually really like how you put both the power and military struggles into the story, so it’s not just one dimensional.


Thanks! It is something I tried to aim for when I decided to do the second story.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/24 04:33:00


Post by: shinros


Chapter 23

Jacob rummaged his hair in frustration he wondered why is this happening? How did this happen? Riots, Murders and Desertion. Commissar Liam was found hanged on one of the statues in the noble area his entire forehead missing and his bolt pistol stuffed within it. He wondered if this is some sick joke? Another problem is the murder of Velisha Marfire, she was found on another statue her torso was torn away. The most disturbing thing about her murder is that many of her organs were missing or half eaten.

Jacob ground his teeth, even more troubling the noble woman Isabella Glodmar is now also missing. He decided to place Uriah under house arrest for his "protection". He has been helpful but it's likely he could be in with the enemy and that may of been the reason why he donated so much of his wealth to the war effort.

Jacob held his hand's together tightly as his mind shifted to the next problem, the fact that many conscripts and even cadians have deserted. It did not suprise him that this occured with the conscripts even in such large amounts but cadians? He could not believe it he did not want to believe it.
Jacob took a deep breath to calm himself down he had to think. He still had to win this war even though these issues are holding the small remainder of the army in the inner city. Jacob tried to focus, even at night he can hear men outside barking orders sending squads out to maintain order in the inner city. Jacob rose from his desk he turned to look outside of the window. He knew he could be proud of one thing that there are some who still know their duty to the emperor even when everything is going wrong.

Jacob felt a cold breeze on his neck, he was about to move to rub his neck but stopped Lucas' memoir's flashed within his mind. The very memoirs sitting in his desk drawer under lock and key. He moved his hand to his laspistol and turned pointing at the weapon at the chair.
Jacob narrowed his eyes at the person now sitting in front his desk "Monster, Heretic and murderer." The intruder gave a small clap of applause "You are the first person to actually ready themselves. I am impressed perhaps if you were sent here earlier things could of been different." Jacob looked the intruder up and down he matched the description of the "angel" a skull helmet and a cloak that seemed to melt in with the darkness. Jacob turned his gaze to the door he shouted "We have an intruder!" The angel did not move an inch he still sat in the chair casually.

Jacob waited no one came, he could feel his mouth drying his finger on the trigger of the laspistol "So what do you want "angel?" " The angel chuckled "I wanted to see you of course. As I said before I am impressed you turned around in such a fashion. Perhaps you read up on the history of Lord General Lucas?" Jacob could not help but shift his eyes to his desk drawer.

His eyes went up to the angel again "You killed a good man." The angel scoffed "No one is good here general. Don't give me that, you knew of Lucas' history yet you made the same mistakes or you did not fix the mistakes left behind by your predecessors." Jacob could not help but go through his past decisions if he made an error somewhere. "I don't see where I made an error heretic." The angel sighed "Must I explain it to you? Fine let's start with the conscripts why do you think they are deserting? Do you ever try to understand why?"

Jacob lifted his finger from the trigger slightly. He could not think of any other reason than they are traitors and cowards "They are cowards who failed in the face of duty." The angel shook his head in clear annoyance "They are men and women who have lost families due to your foolish decisions. They are men and women who have little to no family left and they wish to see no harm come to them." Jacob could not help but laugh slightly "Do you really think that they would desert for such a reason? If they cared for their family they would stick to their duty as by the mandate of the god-emperor."

The angel sighed again it annoyed Jacob that such a agent of darkness is mocking him he wondered why he is letting him speak "Lord general Jacob. These people don't care for the duty because they don't care for this planet. They don't care for you or the imperium itself why should they care when the very thing that is meant to protect them is taking away the thing most precious to them?"

Jacob bought his finger close to the trigger again "The only precious thing in this galaxy is the god-emperor heretic. I remember cadia. I saw what your kind did." The angel shrugged "Never denied we do those things but at least everyone on our side enjoyed it. Shame I was not there actually." Jacob readied himself to pull the trigger as he was about to do so he heard screams outside the normal instinct would be to turn ones head but in this instance he could not a monster of darkness who is perpetuating this war is in front of him.

The angel turned his head slightly to try and look outside the window "It seems my people are moving in." Jacob narrowed his eyes "My men are doing their duty. If I kill you here..." The angel shrugged "pull the trigger then." Jacob placed his other hand on his gun aiming directly at the angel his fingers are resting on the trigger. He looked at the angel for a moment he did not know why but he wanted to know something before he commits "Before I kill you heretic. For what dark reason did you start this long war of pain and suffering?" The angel sat still he looked up slightly "For family of course. I will do anything for them I will do anything for my lord." Jacob heard the angel's words for such a small reason, for such a selfish reason he has caused this all this death and suffering. He made the soldiers of the god-emperor give up their lives trying to end this war for such a petty reason. Jacob closed his eyes for a moment he opened them again and fired his laspistol.

Uriah sat in his living room he could hear the screams outside. He can hear the sounds of gun shots and lasfire. His own "guards" the imperial guard soldiers have left to check what is happening outside Uriah waited and prayed. He prayed to the god-emperor to save him. Uriah felt his mouth drying as he said each word of the prayer, he heard his mansion door opening and the stomping of boots. The the barking of orders and the dying screams of the guards who left to check what was happening.

Men and women armed with autoguns and lasguns came into his living room. Some wore worn out uniforms, others wore civilian clothing. They pointed their guns at him in unison. Uriah rose from his chair and raised his hands another person walked into the room. It was someone he recognised. Uriah said his voice shaking "Skull face." Skull face turned and looked at him in silence "Greetings Uriah." Uriah looked skull face up and down he could see dried blood matted his gear and he is holding a familiar robotic arm. Uriah gulped "Is your Lord here?" Skull face moved his free hand to his helmet and removed it. Uriah could see he had somewhat dark skin and blue eyes that are slits he smiled "Asriel." Uriah grew confused "Asriel?" Skull face nodded "It's my name. Still things moved ahead quite quickly so I am doing this a bit early. Still the city is largely in chaos at least I got the screams for you." Uriah bit his lip slightly "So you have come to kill me?"

Asriel shook his head "No. As I said you will serve my lord." Uriah grit his teeth he never bowed to anyone and he won't do so now because a random person told him his family owed him "I refuse." Asriel shrugged "perhaps you will change your mind once you see him." Uriah dropped his hands in shock "When I will see him?" Asriel nodded, he smiled "Yes. I just sent him a message to bring everything here."

Uriah watched Asirel turn his head to two men in the group "Bring him outside." Both of them proceeded to walk behind him and poked their guns in his back "Get moving." uttered one of the gunmen. Uriah cast his head downwards and began walking out of his mansion. As he reached his living room door Asriel walked with him Uriah could not help but look down to the cybernetic arm he is holding. Uriah could see that it was roughly torn from the person it belonged to. Uriah deep down had a good idea on the owne of the cybernetic arm. Asriel caught him staring "Are you gazing at my souvenir? I took it from the lord general before I killed him I even let him take the first shot." Uriah diverted his eyes away from the arm as they reached his mansion door.

Asriel smiled he walked to the door and opened it, As the door opened Uriah simply looked outside. People are being gathered in a small circle. Uriah can spot nobles, civilians and even some soldiers. Uriah stood in his tracks wondering what is going to happen to everyone. He wondered for what reason they are being gathered, Uriah then felt the gun poking his back. Uriah grimace slightly as he walked out of his mansion.

Adelram sat in the rhino with Jedrick, Silas, Marthas, Camila and Isira, as per Asriel's message they took everything. The serfs and slaves are on Goliath trucks and majority of the warband are in rhinos. Adelram surveyed the people riding within it. He can tell clearly that Isira dislikes Camila's presence it's clear to him that Isira is jealous of how Camila can catch everyone's attention with her music. Even Marius of all people took a liking to her, Camila has told him that Marius has been stalking her.

Adelram reassured Camila that Marius would not dare lay a finger on her that she belongs to him and him alone.

Jedrick grunted in annoyance breaking his concentrating Adelram sighed "What is it Jedrick?" Jedrick shrugged "I don't see why Asriel is having us bring everything. I thought we are going to trash the inner city not move in." Adelram thought on the psychic message sent by Asriel, he said that the city is largely in chaos he has men at both gates waiting for them. The last thing he said is to bring everything, the slaves, important equipment and their personal serfs.

Adelram leaned back slightly thinking he voiced his thoughts "I think he has a way off world." Silas who is not wearing his helmet raised his eyebrow "why did he not mention that earlier?" Adelram leaned his head back slightly thinking it's likely that Asriel wanted him to secure the warband then move to leaving the planet.

Adelram agreed with Asriel's possible reasoning since what could they do off world with only 5 Astartes?
Marthas chuckled, Jedrick scoffed "What is so funny?" Marthas smiled "It's clear he had a way off world a long time ago. Think on it don't you recall the time when we discovered Lily and Elizabeth's location? He pressed that Lily is an important piece. Asriel pretty much had us drop everything to get them. Also we have a tech priest a host of servants, slaves and a whole warband now. All the pieces are together." Isira leaned forward surprised "What?! So he spent all his time on this planet putting everything together? Prolonging the war gathering the pieces needed?"

Silas frowned "I don't exactly like being manipulated in such a fashion." Adelram looked at everyone who is in discussion. Oddly he found he did not exactly care if almost everything happened due to his manipulations it's the end result that he cares about and Asriel largely put everything in his favor. Adelram looked at Camila who seemed reserved holding her violin tightly Adelram smiled "Camila what do you think?" Camila shot up looking around the rhino clearly nervous "I-I-" Jedrick scowled "Spit it out woman he asked a question."

Camila looked away slightly "From the short time I have known him. I think he did everything for all you no matter how much he suffered to get there." Adelram bore a large grin under his helmet "Exactly Camila I share the same opinion." Silas moved to interject "Fine I agree he did it for us. Still we have no idea what the neverborn in his head is planning." Jedrick nodded in agreement "I agree with Silas I still don't trust it."

Adelram's cheerfulness began to subside "The neverborn makes him more useful. More powerful it's under control." Marthas moved to speak "I agree with Adelram. It was placed within him for a reason perhaps it's a divine mandate?" Isira leaned back and folded her arms "My lord. What if he did not have it?" Adelram frowned "He does so there is no point discussing it. It's dangerous to remove it anyway and the only other way is death. This is the end I will hear of the subject." Everyone grew silent at his proclamation.

Silas turned his head slightly away "So Adelram. What are you doing with the cripple? Why isn't he dead yet?" Adelram sighed heavily in annoyance "Are we going to discuss this again?" Silas turned his head to face him he stared at him accusingly "He is useless. A cripple. Give him some dignity and kill him. Even if he is someone barely of note anyway." Marthas looked to him as well "I can see Silas's point. He is an invalid right now something that has no use to the dark prince Adelram."

Adelram removed his helmet he stared directly at Silas he made his power felt within the Rhino. He can see everyone getting slightly uncomfortable he smiled gently "He is special Silas, Marthas. I want him to be there when father comes to see us." Silas held his ground "He will call him ugly and a cripple he will have us kill him. That is what will happen if we ever meet our father."

Jedrick held his hand up "I agree with Adelram." Silas looked at Jedrick with surprise "Really?! Why?" Jedrick held his chin "Well. He is a strange one for sure and he spouts terrible poetry as a cripple." Silas sighed "Fine I will drop it." Adelram nodded "Thank you Jedrick. Now that will be the end of that topic." Adelram placed his helmet back on the rhino ground to a stop.

The driver called out "My lord we are at the south gate. There are men waiting." Adelram looked at everyone "Time to greet my new followers." Adelram rose, Jedrick moved slightly to stop him "Are you going out by yourself?" Adelram nodded "Indeed I am. Relax Jedrick." Jedrick held his place and sat back down. Adelram stepped out of the rhino he walked up to the gate it was rather poor and makeshift he assumed they had a large number of imperial guardmen patrolling it at one point.

He approached the gate he saw a group of soldiers wearing worn out imperial guard uniforms. All of them looked at each other in surprise as they approached. Adelram could see they were not sure what to do so they simply saluted. Adelram scanned the group "Who is in charge?" A man stepped forward he had fair skin, brown eyes and black hair he looked about Camila's age. He saluted nervously "It is me sir. Abraham Lokon." Adelram looked Abraham up and down he could see he has seen some fighting "Right Abraham you will ride with me in the Rhino and direct me to my servant. I assume he has told you of me?" Abraham nods "Yes sir he has." Abraham looked to his men, Adelram noticed this "Your men will remain at the gate."

Abraham looked down slightly "Yes sir." Adelram folded his arms "Right follow me then." Abraham raised his head and nodded. Adelram could see that Abraham walked behind him he turned his head slightly "Walk with me Abraham." Abraham in surprise ran up next to him, Abraham still looked clearly uncomfortable "Tell me Abraham what's the matter?" Abraham replied "It's just..." Adelram looked down at him "It's just what?" Adelram stared at him for a few moments it dawns on him finally on why he seems uncomfortable "Ah. I see you see the horns on my helmet and you are now wondering what you have gotten yourself into?"

Abraham's eyes went wide "No sir! I don't me-" Adelram raised his hand to quieten Abraham's protest Adelram stopped walking "You see Abraham the new god you will be following shapes all of us differently." Adelram removed his helmet "What do you see Abraham?" Abraham dropped to his knee's he started weeping uncontrollably "I had no idea... they said you are all monsters. I.. I.." Adelram placed his helmet back on he helped Abraham to his feet Adelram spoke softly "You fought for me in your own way and as your lord I will ensure you enjoy the fruits of your labours." Abraham nodded slowly.

Adelram stepped on the rhino with Abraham. Adelram can already see Isira staring at him hungrily. Marthas and Silas had clear disinterest but Jedrick scowled "What took you so long?!" Jedrick pointed at Abraham Also who is this?" Adelram tutted "Quiet Jedrick he is our guide." Jedrick looked at the new passenger and then back to him "So... What did you do?" Adelram leaned back in his seat "I just showed him a little bit of his new life."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/24 04:47:28


Post by: shinros


Chapter 24


Asriel waited in the noble area, the mansions now in ruin and the crowd of people being watched by his men. Uriah stood with him with two armed men aiming at guns at him if he tries anything. Isabella sat in the front garden of her mansion at a table her Butler serving her a glass of wine. Asriel smiled to Isabella this is almost like a show to her. Isabella noticed the gesture and smiled back. She rose from her table and walked over to him.

As she did so Uriah's eyes went wide "Isabella?! You are with the heretics!" Isabella tapped Uriah on the cheek "Indeed I am. Asriel simply gave me an offer I can't refuse." Asriel could see Isabella is wearing a different dress it is quite revealing since he took her away for a time she has tried to seduce him but he payed no mind. Asriel felt a small spike in his mind "You love me more instead don't you?" said Meliva. Asriel hissed "Not now."

Meliva grew silent, Isabella looked at him she is clearly concerned "Is something wrong Asriel?" Asriel shook his head "I am fine." Asriel looked at the gathered crowd of people he intends for them to be an offering or present for his lord when he arrives. Thinking of his lord Asriel sent his mind out above the inner city he can see Rhino's moving towards the Noble area.

Asriel drew his mind back and smiled "It seems he will be here soon." Isabella visibly excited said "Is he?! I can't wait to see him! I wonder if he is a charmer like.." Asriel grew annoyed "Please don't mention his name in my presence." Isabella grew silent "Very well." Uriah stepped in front of Asriel the two armed men readied their guns, Asriel raised his hand to stop them. Asriel sighed "What is it Uriah?" Uriah looked visibly angry to Asriel "You know I won't bow to him." Adelram cocked his head slightly "Why do you think that? As I sa-" Uriah cut him off "I have never bowed to anyone. Not my family, not to rivals or you. Your lord is scum. Looking at you if he is anything like you.... You are trash, your lord is trash." Asriel narrowed his eyes at Uriah he found himself getting annoyed "Watch your next words Uriah. Insult me but don't insult my lord."

Uriah laughed "Oh I see! So that's your trigger button! Right then! Your lord is a maggot! A piece of filth!" Asriel handed Isabella the cybernetic arm she looked at it in confusion. Asriel casually removed his glove revealing his black nails they turned into talons in a flash he grabbed Uriah's throat digging his talons in. He watched Uriah gagging trying to pull away his hand. Asriel frowned "Not everything pans out. Oh well. Uriah I am going to cause an extreme haemorrhage it's going to be quite painful please enjoy it." Asriel focused he could detect Uriah's blood has began to boil. Uriah is now gagging grasping relentlessly at his arm trying to remove it from his neck.

Uriah skin began turning extremely red, Asriel smiled he released his grip Uriah stumbled back after a few moments his body became consumed in flames. Uriah released a shrill scream as he rolled on the ground Asriel sighed "seventy years of work gone like that." Asriel looked at Isabella who is in shock "How did you do that? Are you a witch?" Asriel placed his glove back on "You have much to learn Lady Isabella." Asriel perked up slightly "Oh can I have the arm back?" Isabella handed him the cybernetic arm Asriel stroked it slightly "I will keep this for sure to remember the planet by." Asriel looked at Uriah who has now stopped moving "Right. My lord should be here soon."

Adelram can see out of the driver window there is a gate seperating the the noble area. The road ends here. Adelram sighed "We can't take our Rhino's through here "Everyone out!" Adelram stepped out of the rhino with everyone. There are stairs leading upwards, driving through the city he can clearly see the city is gripped in the middle of a revolt of sorts. Chaos is everywhere they drove through without any problems.
Abraham told him that largely majority of the civilian area is in upheaval and many of the imperial guard that has joined him has turned on their old comrades. They took them by surprise he made note that Asriel was a great help in the fighting.

Adelram turned his gaze on the warband who is now waiting for his command. The Goliath trucks holding their slaves and servants. All of it is his. Now when he gazes at them even the slaves oddly he does not see discontent but adoration and expectation. Adelram announced "Right everyone up the steps! I want two squads guarding the vehicles!" Everyone nodded.

Adelram slowly walked up the steps as he reached the top he saw several ruined mansions. In the plaza he see's a crowd of people surrounded by armed men and women. He scanned the area searching for him after a moment he spotted him. Asriel is in discussion with a woman there is also a burnt corpse a few paces away from him.

Adelram walked up to Asriel with some of the warband in tow he can see everyone looking at them in shock. Asriel turned noticing the commotion he smiled and approached he bowed "My lord." Adelram nodded "Asriel. I see you have gathered some people here." Asriel smiled again "Yes they are for you." Adelram titled his head back slightly in surprise "For me?" Asriel turned his head to the gathered crowd "Yes." Asriel turned his head back "I also want to introduce someone." Asriel gestured the woman over she curtsied "Greetings Lord Adelram I am Isabella Glodmar." Adelram looked the woman up and down "So what can she do Asriel?" Asriel nodded "She has great knowledge on the politics and movements of noble houses my Lord." Adelram mused on that information "I see. That will be useful." Adelram removed his helmet he smiled, Isabella looked at him in clear shock her eyes rolled back slightly she fainted, Asriel had to catch her before she fell to the ground.

Adelram frowned "Well... that was unexpected." Asriel looked down at Isabella "I will take her back to her mansion to rest." Asriel walked away towards a mansion largely intact. Adelram could see servants walking over to Asriel helping him carry Isabella.

Adelram placed his helmet back on he could see the armed men and women guarding the crowd are clearly shocked as well. Adelram closed his eyes for a moment he opened them and walked towards them he announced "You all belong to me! Serve me and you will enjoy the delights denied by the imperium!"

Adelram watched everyone stand at attention "Since you fought so hard. Here is my first gift to you!" Adelram turned to the warband members gathered "And to my brothers!" Adelram smiled under this helmet "The war is over! Now we enjoy the spoils! Go into the city! Enjoy the bounties! Take what you want! Those who are not with us?! Do as you please with them!" Adelram could see almost all the warband are in clear surprise. An Astartes raised his hand "Are you telling us to do what we want to those not with us?" Adelram nodded he spread his hands out "Indeed. Go enjoy yourselves brothers."

Adelram watched the warband dispersing grins clearly displayed on their lips. Some of the armed men and women also left. Adelram could see Silas, Jedrick and Marthas leaving he called out "You three wait." They all stopped in their tracks, Silas turned to him and frowned "You want us to do something don't you." Adelram removed his helmet and clipped it to his belt he looked at the crowd and smiled. He can see a mix of horror and adoration on their faces. He turned back to Silas, Marthas and Jedrick "Indeed what I have here is not enough. This is a dear gift from Asriel but I need more materials." Marthas stepped forward "What exactly are you doing?" Adelram stroked his chin "I am going to try my hand at art. Never had an interest exactly but perhaps I might gain a love of it if I make something."

Marthas raised his eyebrow "Art? I have more pres-" Adelram raised his hand "Marthas think of it as a monument to our victory then?" Marthas closed his mouth offering no further protest, Jedrick shrugged "I am quite curious what he is planning actually. So what do you need?" Adelram looked to the crowd and quickly counted "I have 60 people here. I need you to find me 60 more people." Silas creased his brow "You want us to go slave hunting." Adelram began shooing them away "Yes. I want you to do that get to it." All three Astartes began walking away silas sighing in annoyance.

Adelram scanned the dispersing warband for Camila and Isira he called them over they both bowed. Adelram looked to Isira "I need you to tie my hair back. Can you do that?" Isira displaying clear happiness "Yes I can do that." Adelram slightly went to one knee Isira began tying his hair in a pony tail. Adelram watched Asriel walking out of the mansion he smiled "Asriel come over." Asriel walked over and bowed "Do you need something my lord?" Isira finished tying his hair he rose, Adelram nodded "Indeed I need several gallons of cement and water. Go find Abraham and get him and his men to help you gather it for me. After that you will remain here I will need your help for this." Adelram looked to Isira "Actually I will need both of you." Both Isira and Asriel nod. Asriel ran away to gather the materials.

He gave a gentle smile to Camila "Please play a song. Something... classical." Camila nodded she got her bow ready and began playing. As the song filled his mind the image of the art he is going to create began framing itself.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/24 04:47:51


Post by: shinros


One more chapter! After that is the end of part 1!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/26 22:18:16


Post by: shinros


Chapter 25

Adelram gazed at his work he spent weeks on the structure, now that its finally done he felt an odd sense of regret. Regret that in the past he did not try hard enough to invest himself in artistic pursuits. Adelram looked over to Isira and Asriel his two helpers for this project they were currently gazing up at the sky Adelram oddly felt cross they should be gazing at his art not drifting off looking upwards "Isira and Asriel my work is in front of you." Adelram said sternly. Asriel looked down "Apologies my lord.", Isira cast her head down slightly and tutted "I am looking at your work my lord. Your piece of art is affecting everything around it."

Adelram thought on what Isira just said he has been so absorbed putting it together he did not notice the changes around him. Even though the work took weeks, Adelram looked up the skies are now in upheaval and the screams from the inner city seems to be drawn to his piece of art. The wailing coming from his piece of art eclipsed the screams coming from the city. When the screams came he had Camila stop playing her violin. Adelram found the screams actually helped him to focus instead of distracting him, Camila was soon dragged away by Isabella since she could not stand how "scruffy" Camila looked. Adelram somewhat agreed with Isabella the imperial guard essentially ruined her looks in a sense.

Adelram rubbed his hands slightly, he smiled as he looked over to Asriel and Isira "I want both of you to gather everyone. It's complete." Isira and Asriel gave a small bow and walked away.

Adelram went over his creation again, the "statue" is made from 120 people all interwoven together reaching up to an icon of slaanesh. The symbol of slaanesh was carved from marble and embedded with the jewellery. Both items were easily found in the mansions. Adelram then had Jedrick, Marthas and Silas gather 60 extra slaves some tried to run and he was forced to put everyone in cages after that all three left to their own devices. The cement and water was gathered, it was prepared and Adelram began creating his work. He would grab a slave and using telekensis position them in the place and position he wanted them. Asriel and Isira would then cover them with cement leaving their mouths exposed and then they used eldritch fire to aid in the drying process.

He did this with each individual slave until his work was done. Adelram pulled the string holding his white hair back and placed his helmet back on. He waited, he wanted to see the reaction.

After a few minutes he can hear the stomping of feet and the sound of discussion. Adelram felt his excitment building he had to contain himself until they arrive. Adelram heard the gates opening and closing he turned and spread his arms out wide "Welcome brothers! Please gaze upon my work!"

Adelram smiled he could see Marthas, Silas, Marius and Jedrick in the crowd. Many who were not wearing helmets stared at his statue in silence no praise or jubilation was seen from them. Adelram furrowed his brows he wondered if they disliked what he created it was his first time. They continued to stare for a few moments more Adelram frowned "So none of you like it I take it?" Oddly it took a few seconds for someone to respond it was Jedrick who stepped forward "Er. No I personally love it I just... have no words to describe it to be honest."

Adelram could see everyone murmuring in agreement. Adelram did not know exactly how to feel about what Jedrick just said "So, what's the problem then?" Jedrick folded his arms and shook his head "I said I like it. To describe it I see a great statue displaying the torment of the slaves of the false emperor." At Jedrick's proclamation Marius pushed his way through the Astartes and began screeching at Jedrick turned to Marius in annoyance "What do you mean the statue is not important?! You are saying through the statue he made a beautiful song?!" Marius nodded, Jedrick scowled and pointed "Look the 120 people are still alive I might add howling in misery. Look at their faces! They are moving like it's alive!" Adelram turned he noticed that the statue faces are making expressions he was quite sure the surface was flat when he did them.

Adelram turned back to Marius and Jedrick, Marius is squinting his eyes he released a low rumble. Jedrick sighed "You can't see it? I can see it clearly! Silas what do you think?" Silas was standing in the front he shrugged "I have no opinion." Jedrick walked up to Silas his annoyance spilling out with each step "You do have an opinion. You are wearing your helmet and gazing at the statue like a stone what do you see?" Silas looked away slightly "The statue is moving. I am currently taking pictures using my helmet."

Jedrick shook his head "Right send me the pictures." Adelram watched Jedrick standing still for a moment after a few seconds he shook his head in confusion "It's impossible. It's not even moving!" Silas shrugged "Now leave me be and let me take more photos." Jedrick called out "Marthas! What do you see." Marthas walked out the crowd and looked at the statue "What stands out to me is the icon of the dark prince blazing brightly with purple flames" Adelram turned to look up at the icon it looks plain to him and no fire could be seen the only detail is the jewellery shining off it slightly.

Adelram turned back "It looks rather plain to me Marthas." Marthas shook his head "Lo-" Jedrick interrupted "Look. All of you are noticing something that is not there." As soon as Jedrick said that everyone erupted into an argument over the meaning of the statue or what they are actually seeing.
Adelram found he actually prefers this response oddly he gestured to quieten everyone down "I can see everyone has their own interpretations. I am just happy all of you like it how about each time with conquer a world I will do something like this for you?" The warband largely all nodded in agreement. Adelram smiled "Now. It's time to leave. Asriel!"

Asriel squeezed through the Astartes he bowed "Yes my lord." Adelram nodded "I assume you know of a way off world." Asriel stood still as he flatly said "Yes."

Adelram sat in the rhino with Asriel they are driving northwards out of the north gate of the inner city. Adelram had only the both of them within the Rhino when Asriel announced he knew of a way off world many of his brothers wanted to kill him so he decided to have only the both of them as passengers within the rhino to avoid any annoying arguments or disagreements with his brothers. Adelram placed Marthas, Silas and Jedrick with Lily and Elizabeth without them they can't use what is most likely a ship Adelram looked at Asriel "So I assume it's a ship?" Asriel nodded "Yes it's held underground but to get there you need certain key words that were given to me by Meliva."

Adelram surprised said "Underground? Is there a passage?" Asriel held his chin slightly "Of a sort the passage can be large or small the passage is big enough to fit vehicles through." Adelram folded his arms "So what is the ship like?" Asriel scratched his neck slightly "Very big. The ship holds a lot of valuables that Astartes can use." Adelram raised his eyebrow at what Asriel just said he mused on the information that there is many valuables one can use.

Adelram oddly felt excited "So is there anything dangerous about the ship? Any deficiencies I should know about?" Asriel shook his head "No. The only odd thing is that Meliva said only the prize winner can activate the ship I have no idea what she means." Adelram's eyes grew wide within his helmet he chuckled "So that's why we were sent here."

Asriel perked up slightly "I assume something happened on cadia?" Adelram did not react he personally did not want to go over that tale with him Adelram wanted to look foward "So to speak, are we arriving at the location soon?" Asriel looked out of the driver window "Yes have the driver stop." Adelram gestured to the driver he acknolwedged and the rhino ground to a halt. Adelram could hear all the other vehicles stopping.

Asriel stepped out of the vehicle and walked to the front he took several paces forward. Asriel knelt down to the ground slightly, Adelram wondered what he was doing at most he could hear a long line of words in the dark tongue after several seconds a small black inky square pool appeared in front of Asriel it expanded filling out a section of the road. Asriel walked back to the rhino he entered and seated himself down.

Adelram held his gaze at the pool as it bubbled he turned to Asriel "So we just drive into it?" Asriel nodded. Adelram looked at the driver "Keep going going." "Acknowledged" responded the driver. The rhino began moving as the rhino moved into the pool it was like the rhino became submerged in water and after a second they were on a road again. They were now in an underground tunnel oddly enough he felt a strange force pressing on his mind.

Asriel looked out of the window "The death guard tried so hard to find this place not knowing they walked over it, killed over it and died over it. Now I have to concentrate." Adelram raised his eyebrow "Concentrate?" Asirel nodded "Yes. I bound neverborn to the walls and roads if someone steps over or drives over a certain point they will be summoned."

Asriel cast his head down slightly and began murmuring, Adelram could see on his tactical display the temperature is dipping. Asriel stopped his chant and the tempreature returned to normal the pressure on his mind vanished "It's safe to go now my lord." Said Asriel.

The rhino continued into the tunnel, Adelram looked out of the window to see they are coming to a large open door as they drove through what he saw shocked him. They drove into a large underground ship bay holding a battleship in the docking area. Upon seeing it Adelram felt a lot more better charging the wall on cadia. Adelram called out to the driver "Stop the rhino." The rhino grew to a slow halt Adelram moved to leave Asriel followed after him.

Adelram looked up to the ship he could see everyone else is following suit, Adelram removed his helmet and clipped it to his belt he smiled "It's mine. Mine to use to spread agony and suffering for my wish." Lily came walking over in awe "It's beautiful! I can't wait to see the command chair!" Adelram watched her run to the docking bay area a ramp is extended to let vehicles and people on. As she ran to the ramp Adelram heard a large noise of random screeching numbers Caius came walking over the noise continued, Adelram frowned "Enough with the noise what is it?" Caius fell silent he gazed up at the ship in almost reverence "Astartes Adelram you are aware of what class of ship this is?" Adelram oddly found Caius is displaying almost clear emotion in his voice "I am aware of the weaponry but not the exact class." Adelram could see the lance batteries and Nova cannon but it's clear the ship has been modified for Astartes use he could see dread claws mounted on the ship.

Caius raised his hands "It's an apocalypse class battleship! Yet just gazing at it the ship is slightly larger than normal variants perhaps to add Astartes equipment similar to a battle barge." Caius pointed again "Lo-" Adelram interrupted him "You can examine the ship later Caius we must leave." Adelram turned to the warband "Get everything on the ship! I want it prepped to leave!" Adelram turned to the ship again he said quietly "This is only the first step."

Adelram walked the halls of the ship he is going to the bridge he had the warband is fan out exploring the ship and what they found was interesting. When Asriel said there are valuables there is far more than that suits of terminator armour, resources to put together a dreadnought and several run down tanks that could be used along with thunderhawks. Even a teleportarium was found on the ship Caius is already at work trying to get it operational.

Adelram finally reached the bridge he can see familiar serfs in their old positions. He is on the bridge because Lily sent a message to him that the ship is not activating he had a good idea why going by the past discussion with Asriel. Lily is pressing buttons at the command throne panel clearly frustrated "Why won't it work! Dammit!" Lily slammed the arm of the chair. Adelram looked over "Problems?" Lily nodded "Yes. I ran all the commands I can think of to activate the ship but it's not working."
Adelram approached the panel he knew the standard intiation to start a ship he simply pressed the buttons. After a moment the screens flicked on data and information flowed down the screen as the various engines and machinery within the ship started to activate.
Lily scratched her head "How did you do that?" Adelram shrugged "I just had the right touch I guess." Lily rubbed her hands together "Right let's get going!" Adelram held her shoulder "No wait a moment. Is the ship loud speaker working?" Lily nodded "Yes it is. Do you want to say a few words?" Lily pressed a button on the console "You can speak everyone on the ship will hear it."

Adelram nodded he spoke firmly "We are setting out. Setting out to an unknown galaxy ready for us to spread suffering and torment! We will bring corruption and darkness to those who cling to the false the emperor! We will gain our wish! Ready yourselves! For all of you are my Harbingers of Sin!"


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/26 22:31:10


Post by: shinros


Part 1 Epilogue

inquistor communication log

System Atovila

Planet lock Zatos

Numerous daemonic enties detected. Request Astra militarum?

Negative, threat too large to contain identified a beacon on long range scanners drawing in the great enemy

Send request to Adeptus Astartes chapter Salamnders?

Negative, threat is too large.

Initiate protocol 666?

Affirmative.


Belaris leaned back in his chair away from the communication device he creased his brow in frustration the system meeting with the other ordo malleus inquisitors was draining "Another planet has fallen to the great enemy..." said Belaris. Belaris sighed he also lost someone resourceful he could call upon. Even with the information given perhaps it was too late? Belaris looked around his office on Athor he had a choice to come here to prevent a possible disaster or go to Zatos to hunt the false angel. Belaris went over the reports of the MIA inquisitors and those confirmed to be killed. All of them investigated the Angel perhaps if this case was picked up by him sooner this could of been prevented.

Belaris heard his door opening he looked up he saw that it is Michael Nors one of his acolytes, he is a sanctioned psyker like him but his skills lie in divination and more often than not he has been accurate it's why he is in his service. Michael gripped his staff "Sir, you remember why we came here?" Belaris rose from his chair he walked over to Michael the servo's of his power armour winding at the motion he has worked with Michael for years now Belaris finds that Micheal reminding him of his visions keeps him alert "I do. You remember the divination? The vision?" Micheal nods "It is why the grand master sent a strike team to aid us just in case. Even the grand master saw a similar vision." Belaris sighed the weariness setting in "Is the request for the Salamanders on standby to be sent?" Micheal nodded.

Belaris turned away "We can't take any chances we have to find it so it does not get to that point." Belaris heard Micheal speak out the divination or "prophecy" "Through bright blue gem the bird will shriek to consume all within reach. It will caw to the sky as it flies high to devour everything in the sky." Belaris closed his eyes as he muttered a prayer to the emperor "We will find it. Emperor guide my hand."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/26 22:31:59


Post by: shinros


So yeah end of part 1 the next part of the story will be called the twin dark stars and will kinda focus on two certain characters. Hope everyone enjoyed part 1.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 01:49:20


Post by: Dayknight


fething loved it man, had me glued to the screen the past few days. Keep up the goodwork!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 02:16:37


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:
fething loved it man, had me glued to the screen the past few days. Keep up the goodwork!


Thanks! something is coming soon!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 02:24:31


Post by: shinros


The twin dark stars

Intro

In the time we left Zatos I explained to my lord how the galaxy changed that the imperium is divided by the cicatrix maledictum or the great rift. The 13th black crusade and other events that happened almost simultaneously caused this great rift to occur. It's been one hundred years since that happened but due to the nature of the warp some planets experienced little to no time shift. I also added that the imperium has moved to create new weapons to my master's surprise. I pointed out that it's vetted by a living primarch, my master was shocked he asked which one and I told him it's the primarch of the ultramarines.

I added that he bought new weapons and part of those new weapons are Astartes. My lord was in sheer disbelief at that fact but his response was interesting he was relishing the opportunity to face them. When the news spread around everyone had the same response. As everyone got used to the ship Marthas created a temple of sorts in one of the large areas of the ship. My lord trusted Marthas with the suits of terminator armour and the first to get one was Silas. From what I hear to get one is quite deadly so to speak I was called a few times to repair torn of limbs and grievous injuries I have no idea what Marthas is doing.

Apart from that Marthas does not really talk to me anymore, he says he is too busy or he has other things to focus on. Jedrick gathered many of the human soldiers and pretty much has done what he did before on the last ship. Those who grow tired of his leadership or want the strength and power Marthas provides go to the temple.

Another note is that Jedrick has also started to lose interest in talking to me as well I mean I can come and go from his place but he does not seem to want to converse. Now the traitor? Sebastian has been stripped of his power armour he is no longer chained but it seems he has lost all interest in doing anything, I think my lord is using him as a trophy or warning of sorts.

The Astartes Noxus has been placed within a dreadnought when he woke up in the medical tank the contents were drained and he thrashed uselessly when my lord told him he is going to be entombed within a dreadnought. He shouted and begged not to be placed within it. My lord did not exactly care in a sense he wanted Noxus's "visions" or poetry and he wants Noxus to see his father when he ever does arrive. My lord made my task on this ship is to record whatever he says. At first my lord had interest but after awhile he decided that Noxus in the end did not have anything useful to say and stopped coming to me for updates. His last words on Noxus "At least my brother has some combat use."

He did not exactly me order to stop so I kept writing and recording his words when he speaks it's like he is sleep talking. Well... he spends majority of his time sleeping. Oddly I had a dangerous thought that I actually disagreed with my lord Noxus had some interesting things to say if you think about it.

Finally to talk of recent days? We hit two worlds. The first? using the nova cannon we smashed aside the small escorts protecting the planet and crippled the cruiser ships and because the warband were eager to try the new gear Caius has repaired(He has also been training tech serfs) they landed on the planet. They essentially enslaved the population I asked my master if he needs me to do anything but he said it's not required. I did not know exactly how to feel about that I spent 100 years trying to be better for him yet he said he does not require me to do anything.

He did have Isira infiltrate the lower class populace and Isabella handling the upper class during the war and ordering them to corrupt a portion of them to make the battle easier. Camila was also there on the battlefield(At the far back playing music) playing her violin. The music she has been playing lately has gotten... strange? Even so when the warband was done my lord tried his hand at painting some of the people captured he tore their souls from their bodies and placed it into the painting. The painting moves and screams if one looks at them. He hanged them within the house of the planetary governor for the imperials to find.

The second planet? Had barely any defenses I asked my lord if he needs me to do something he told me no again. He had Isira and Isabella in act the same plan. When the battle was won my master decided to hold another feast this time the populace was the meat he also partook. After the feast was done and the warband was going to leave my lord found a piano on the world and took to practising he seems to enjoy playing with Camila. Camila also enjoys when she practices with him.

Since then the corruption on the ship is.. thick extremely thick far more than the last one. I can see my lord subtly changing growing in power as he grows the less he asks of me. Of course I do not mind I think. At least I think so.

Now about myself? Nothing much has changed save I dream of killing people I dream of hacking and eating tearing people apart. So nothing really important. Now I wonder what planet my lord will choose to attack next.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 02:40:41


Post by: shinros


Chapter 25

In the void one star looks upwards as another star falls towards it.

Asriel walked the halls of the ship the thick smell of musk in the air the corruption permeating every part of the ship. The halls of the ship are now painted in vivid colours mixed with other vile unidentifiable colours, the sounds of screams of pain and pleasure echoing through out every hall. When this all started happening his lord said that it should be embraced because the warband has to to become a form that his father would find pleasing to look at.

Asriel often wondered what his lord's father actually looked like. His master has described him in detail when he recorded his words yet Asriel wanted to see him to understand why all the Astartes are so fixated on him. Perhaps if his lord get his wish then that day may come soon.
Asriel thought upon his task at this time to record Noxus' words no one exactly cared for them anymore but he found it interesting to say the least. Noxus words must have some purpose it's clear to him that he is a psyker but his gifts took a far different turn. Noxus is held in a rather large room located near the docking bar area he is chained heavily to the wall.

Asriel did not exactly see the point in it because Noxus is always asleep by his own volition perhaps subconsciously using his powers to put himself in a deep slumber. Noxus hates what he is and does not want to feel or see the state he is in when he ever awakens. When Noxus is dropped into battle he is sometimes still sleeping but even so he fights and largely anyone who gets in his way usually is injured or killed.

When Asriel thinks of Noxus he wonders at times if there is anything he could do he barely knows him but he feels that perhaps he could do something. So in his spare time which he has plenty of now Asriel took to studying machinery and manipulating it with his psychic powers. Asriel wondered if he could mix biomancy and the discipline he is studying together he might be able to sort something out.

Asriel reached Noxus' chamber he entered in the code to enter, as Asriel entered the room he looked up to the large frame. The dreadnought looked bulky and was rather crude to say the least his weaponry is two large fists. The black and pink paint is heavily chipped and worn out. Noxus room has a host of spare parts and machinery scattered so quick repairs can be done to the frame.

Asriel grabbed his seat and sat in front of Noxus and waited as always he waited for him to say something. Asriel opened his journal containing many of his words, Asriel traced his finger down the page and smiled. Asriel felt tiny prick within his mind "Why do you keep coming here to listen to this piece of junk?" said Meliva. Asriel sighed "So what made you decide to finally talk after that long silence?" Meliva moved slightly gently trying to comfort him "don't worry I just thought you would enjoy the peace and quiet and I personally dislike that you are wasting our time."
Asriel shook his head in disagreement "Lord Adelram ordered me to this." Meliva retorted "He doesn't care. He care's more about delivering torment to his enemies and creating music on the piano and practising with Camila than what you do here." Asriel looked down the page again he clenched his hands "I can't shake the feeling that this would be important one day." Meliva sighed "like what? What could be so important? How about instead of doing something boring like that we have some fun?"

Asriel grimace slightly in annoyance "no. I will do this for example in many of his possible predictions he mentions a tree multiple times. This must be important." Meliva hissed "A tree? It could be any tree you focusing on this you are going to slip away from his attentions." Asriel perked up slightly "What do you mean slip away? Slip away from who?" Meliva chuckled "Of our master of course. He is right now paying more attention to the new slaves you bought him than you or are you to blind to notice it?"

Asriel frowned "If he wants to spend time with them that is his wish. Why should I interfere with that? It's not my place." Meliva tutted in annoyance before falling silent again. Asriel hoped she would remain so. Asriel looked up at Noxus again he was about to rise until he heard a voice it was gravelly due to the vox. Noxus spoke slowly ++Darkness rises in one's mind.++ Asriel wrote down Noxus words he tapped his pen on his cheek "darkness rises in one's mind? Darkness in who's mind? I wonder.." He looked up to Noxus again who continued ++Darkness seeks vengeance for all that comes to it as it seeks to devour all that is sin.++

Asriel quickly wrote the last sentance he gazed up to Noxus again who is now silent. Asriel smiled weakly "So that's it?" Asriel rose from his seat he turned to leave Noxus shouted his voice echoing ++A SHINING SWORD PIERCES THE DARKNESS TO SET ONE FREE++
Asriel froze he flicked open his Journal he slowly wrote it the words down. Asriel surprised said under his breath "this has never happen before..." Asriel waited for a few moments just in case he has something else to say. After a few minutes Noxus did not say another word if Asriel listened closely he can hear him sleeping soundly, Asriel rushed out of the room he wondered if his lord would like to know of this update.

Asriel walked to the uper levels largely only those owned by Astartes may walk the upper floors there is no system in place anymore each Astartes now have their own personal serfs to do with as they wish. Asriel approached his lord's chambers he can hear music. Asriel opened the twin doors slowly. Asriel looked around his lord's room he has fully delved into sorcery largely leaving behind his past as an apothecary his room is now filled with strange books. He did instruct Caius and detailed heavily the process of creating an Astartes to Caius' glee. This information he then taught to his serfs in varying levels. Asriel recalled how rapidly his lord has been increasing in power he has surpassed him ages ago in such a short time frame it's also clear he is now swelling with the favour of the slaanesh.

Asriel continued to examine the room, Great silk strands lined his walls, his master had a vintage wine storage they looted from a planet and he had skulls lining the walls of his room that either weeped black tears or wailed in torment. There are several chained slaves in the room some crying due to the wounds inflicted by his master and others caught within the corruption of slaanesh exploring all manner of pursuits.

Camila and his lord have been trying to interwove all of these sounds together into music. Asriel can see small wisps dancing around both of them. His lord missed a note, the wisps dissipated his master swore in annoyance Camila stopped "Adelram are you alright?" Asriel in surprise wondered how she could easily call him by his name he looked at Camila her hair has grown back slightly and which has been handled by Isabella. Camila is also wearing a slik dress that exposed her back. His lord turned to her "It's alright we are getting closer." Camila lowered her violin "Same time?" Adelram smiled gently "Yes. Please be here."

As Camila walked by she smiled at him gently as she left the room Asriel could see she has fallen completly and utterly just by looking at her eyes. Asriel wondered what exactly happened between Camila and his master during the month he traveled the warzone on Zatos.
Asriel looked to his lord who rose from the piano Asriel walked forward and bowed to one knee "My lord." His lord did not even look at him as he spoke "So what is it Asriel?" Asriel cast his head down slightly "There has been a change in Noxus. I think his visions are getting stronger." His lord sighed "I see. So Asriel why don't you try something else?"

Asriel looked up "Try something else? I..." His master walked over to the wine storage and poured himself a glass "Anything you want. Just do it." Asriel began thinking what does he want to do? He could not think anything he held no desire to do anything but to serve "What do you wish me to do?" His lord creased his brow slightly "Think of what I asked you. Now I have things to do leave me."

Asriel slowly rose and walked out of his chambers confused he wondered what could he do. Art largely held no interest for him. Murder happens almost every minute on the ship and murder does not really move him at all. Music is covered by Camila. As Asriel said Camila within his mind it drifted to the thought how she said his name so casually. What is Camila to his lord now?

Asriel shook his head trying to focus he said out loud "Try to do something I want..." Asriel had no idea where to start. As he walked the halls thinking he bumped into someone the person in Asriel's eyes purposely tumbled to the ground. Asriel could see it's a woman who is clearly displaying her leg seductively Asriel simply raised his eyebrow in confusion. The woman sighed as she got to her feet "You are seriously boring you know that?" Asriel recognised the voice Asriel said "Sitri."

Asriel folded his arms "Does Marthas know you are doing this?" Sitri shrugged "He does not exactly care anymore he is entirely focused in turning the Astartes around him into the best warriors they can be." Sitri leaned in close to him "So are you busy Meliva?" Asriel frowned "That's not my name." Sitri smiled "What is a name really? Only the gods know our true names."

What Sitri said caught Asriel's attention "So is Sitri your true name then?" Sitri leaned back "Well, it's a part of it the person who I work for revealed it to me." Asriel knew that both Sitri and Naberius are Marthas' helpers but they are not exactly his servants. Marthas said they both walked the realm of slaanesh and returned Asriel narrowed his eyes at Sitri "you two don't move without a reason. What do you want?" Sitri pouted "Why don't we talk about what you want? Well you largely don't want anything since Meliva had you in that church." Asriel growled in anger his teeth shifting with his anger "How did you know about that?!" Sitri casually shrugged "Don't worry Naberius and I won't tell a soul. I know it's quite a sore spot."

Sitri then twirled around laughing to Asriel's confusion she stopped and moved in close to Asriel and fully removed her hood Asriel recognised Sitri as a she but looking at her face in full view it was almost completely sexless. She had long flowing white hair that shimmered slightly she leaned in close to kiss him. Asriel did not stop the gesture but it just confirmed he felt nothing at all. She moved to his ear and whispered "Only you can hear me right now. The other one is blind at the moment so listen. If you wish to serve Adelram don't do what he just told you to do. Don't listen to the neverborn within you keep on the path of the one in iron." Sitri leaned back smiling she placed her hood back on and walked away down the corridor into darkness.

Asriel looked at his book all of Noxus's words recorded so far. Oddly enough he felt a small sense of purpose now but a tinge of conflict on side due to the directive his lord just gave him. Asriel decided to go to his room to review what he recorded so far.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 06:13:05


Post by: Dayknight


I want to ask why the new direction where asriel is not asked to do anything or help in anyway? Why marthas and everyone else doesnt have the time of day for asriel? makes me a little bummed for him honestly. I thought he would be staying a scribe of adelram's recording his words, contiuing to discuss philosophy with marthas and overall still recording everyones histories and asking questions. Damn you write so well it really bummed me out haha.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 12:00:20


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:
I want to ask why the new direction where asriel is not asked to do anything or help in anyway? Why marthas and everyone else doesnt have the time of day for asriel? makes me a little bummed for him honestly. I thought he would be staying a scribe of adelram's recording his words, contiuing to discuss philosophy with marthas and overall still recording everyones histories and asking questions. Damn you write so well it really bummed me out haha.


It's more to do with when you truly commit yourself to the road of slaanesh you start to lose interest in certain things really quickly. Think on the novel Fulgrim in the horus heresy they fell pretty dam quickly compared to everyone else Asriel was like a... novelty of sorts but soon as they found their chief excess it utterly consumes them before the warband was just moving around the galaxy doing whatever. Now they have a clear objective and the corruption is heavily setting in now slaanesh was essentially using Asriel as a vehicle to bring utter corruption to the warband.

Also you feeling bummed is mission accomplished with slaanesh always got do more and reach higher or this could happen in a second.

None of the warband hate Asriel its just you know.. they are getting slightly bored of him or they have other important concerns. Of course our glorious warband leader being the prideful chaos space marine he is does not want to say it out loud he does not want to get bored of him so he gave him that order at the end of the last chapter. Now? Being the loyal slave to darkness that Asriel is and he cares for his lord so what do you think Asriel is going to do? There is going to be a lot of suffering coming up and he will endure it all for him.

The next chapter shall explain further.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 15:01:11


Post by: shinros


Chapter 26

Both stars slowly rise as they reach to kill the bird in the sky

Asriel felt himself panting he was out of breath it's clear he is chasing someone or something within the halls of the ship. He felt tired but alert the strange thing is that it felt like he was gazing at this from a distance he felt inclosed within his own body. He felt his head moving upwards he can see a man running screaming for someone to help him.

Asriel wondered why he hasn't closed in on him he can easily catch up with a normal human even so he felt joy in the hunt. The man he was chasing eventually tripped, Asriel jumped on top of him fangs tearing off flesh and cutting with his claws. Asriel could hear his screams reverberating in his mind his pulse fading as he devoured him.

Asriel blinked he opened his eyes Asriel was on his bed looking upwards Asriel rose from his bed. Asriel creased his brow the dreams have started to happen ever since they got on the ship the last dream was far more vivid than before. Asriel instinctively searched for the taste of blood in his mouth moving his tongue around slightly he could not taste any blood within his mouth but the dream felt so real. Asriel looked around his room there are some weapons on the wall and his desk is filled with stacks of books. Asriel got off his bed and went to his desk he flicked through a book his recordings on combining biomancy with the heretech discipline he felt he was on the cusp of something but he needed to work on it more. Asriel heard a knock on his door he wondered who it was Asriel opened the door manually. Asriel frowned when he saw who it was "Isira. What do you want?" Isira's skin colour is now far more porcelain with a slight shade of pink, mutation is for more rife on the ship than before.

Isira almost barged into his room she looked around "Asriel you can do far more with your room. Spice it up a little." said Isira. Asriel folded his arms "I said what do you want." Isira sighed "fine I will get to the point. How do you feel about your position within Lord Adelram's eyes?" Asriel gave it a thought other than he does not talk to him as much anymore he never thought exactly on how he feels about the situation all he knew if his master did not want to see him that is his directive. Asriel walked over to his desk picking up a book containing Noxus words "I don't think much on it if he does not need anything of me at the moment I will oblige."

Asriel can see Isira shaking her head "Asriel you are part of the competition now." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Competition? I don't understand." Isira sat on his bed "Think on it how much he sees Camila compared to you." Asriel held his confusion "And? It's his right if he wants to see her." Isira wiped her hand down her face in annoyance "Here I am trying to give you some small advice and here you are too dense to realise it."

Asriel narrowed his eyes at Isira "What do you want me to realize? If my lord enjoys Camila's company his happiness is mine." Isira's mouth fell almost agape she chuckled slightly "So selfless for him. That is so you, fine then do what you want." Isira got up from his bed and left his room. Asriel held the book in his hand he looked down to it he could not shake the feeling that it will be truly important but now the book felt like a heavy weight in his hand. His lord told him to do something else but Sitri said to focus on the one in Iron. The one in iron he assumed to be Noxus.

Asriel gripped the book part of him wanted to drop it but Sitri said that doing this will serve his lord's interest if that's the case he can't stop and do something else. Asriel's heart twisted slightly in his chest it felt like he was doing something wrong Asriel bit his lip as he left his room.
Asriel walked the halls back towards Noxus' room each step felt extremely heavy Asriel recalled the last time he failed his lord. It was so long ago to him but to his master it's only been a few months. He did not want to feel like that again but a part of him disagreed with his lords stance on Noxus. Noxus is not useless. Everyone insults him Silas calls him cripple and disgusting. Marthas considers him a useless invalid. Lord Jedrick and Adelram thought they could get something out of him and largely defaulted to Silas and Marthas' viewpoints.

Asriel warred with himself until he found himself in front of Noxus' door his hand slowly moved to the panel he pressed each number slowly the doors slid open. As always Asriel sat in front of Noxus and waited. Asriel waited for several minutes, minutes soon turned to hours. Asriel sighed "Not talking today?" Asriel got up to leave as he did so a voice boomed from the dreadnought "Why are you here creature?" Asriel's eyes went wide he sat back down again "Lord Noxus I-" Noxus interrupted him he repeated "Why are you here creature? I asked a question." Asriel looked away slightly thinking he then looked up to Noxus "I am here to record your words." Asriel waited for a response, the dreadnought shifted slightly it strained at the chains "Why are you recording my ramblings? Of a mad fool? Of a cripple?"

Asriel rose from his seat he shook his head in disagreement "No Lord Noxus don't say that. I think what you are saying is important." Noxus stopped straining at the chains "Who told you to do that?" Asriel looked down to the book "Lord Adelram did. He said you might have something useful to say." A laugh came from Noxus the laugh crackled due to the vox speaker "So has he found anything useful?" Asriel held the book he looked away "My lord is doing other things now I continue to record your words and if something of note comes up I tell him about it" Noxus chuckled "I see he has most likely lost interest what you are doing is a lost cause. You are doing this out of pity I don't need it." Asriel flicked his head towards Noxus and stepped forward slightly "I am not!"

Asriel flicked open the book he pointed at several pages "You mention a tree multiple times. This must be important. Now Lord Noxus you are awake can you tell me what it is?" Noxus sighed it sounded like a grumble "It is a tree of the gods. That is what I assume it is the location of said tree I have no idea." Asriel quickly annotated the words Asriel mused out loud "tree of the gods..."

Asriel flicked to another page "Yesterday you said darkness rises in one's mind. Can you tell me the meaning behind that?" Asriel waited for Noxus to respond after a few seconds Asriel said "Lord Noxus are you still awake?" Noxus voice boomed out after a moment "I am still awake about that passage don't worry about it. It's nothing." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Lord Noxus after you said that several lines dealing with the darkness came after that are you sure it's nothing?" Noxus strained forward at the chains he spoke firmly "I said it's nothing creature." Noxus stepped back slightly "Now go away I want to sleep." Asriel rose he gave a small bow "I see. I will be here same time tomorrow." As Asriel said that he could hear Noxus sighing in annoyance. Asriel left the room after today events he felt assured that this is correct as he walked the halls back to his room he saw two serfs in discussion "Paul was found torn to pieces." the other serf responded clearly concerned "Aye his master never harmed him so this is strange." Asriel listened in but dismissed it he had to focus on going over his book again perhaps he could find different meanings to Noxus words while he slept.

Asriel was close to his room he saw a hooded person walking by he stopped in front of him he coughed "So you found purpose then? A purpose to follow?" Asriel raised his eyebrow "Naberius? What do you want?" Naberius hackled he coughed again "No reason I just wanted to see the strength of your desire to walk this road. I do say if you go to your room and look at that book again you will be trapped on this road of suffering and complexity. Asriel cocked his head slightly "Turning back from what and road of suffering? Complexity? What are you talking about?" Naberius nodded "You still think on arbitrary terms you think that everything is evil that there is no good. That you are evil do not fret child you are the purest good because you suffer the most for him. Suffering is the wine for the body and soul. To experience the complexity of the cosmos is the true good of the galaxy."

Asriel shook his head "I am not suffering Naberius." Naberius chuckled "Oh really? Or are you just denying it? You are not curious as to why Camila speaks so casually with your lord? You know he only allows those he truly favours to say his name like that."

Asriel looked away slightly he hated talking with him it's like he is peeling him away layer by layer he hated it. Asriel scowled "What do you want Naberius?! Enough with the rhetoric! Speak plainly!" Naberius shrugged he walked to Asriel and held his shoulders with both of his hands. Naberius removed his hood Naberius had similar eyes to him but it's far different. It's like he has seen far greater things in his life time. At that moment looking at Naberius and Sitri Asriel wondered who they truly worked for. Naberius spoke almost in a whisper "It's as I said if you open that book in your room. You will be put through the purest suffering. All the suffering the complex webs of you growing yourself for your lord will be nothing compared to the path that you can now walk but if you can handle it you will meet the purest good in the galaxy."

Naberius tapped his shoulders and nodded, Naberius placed his hood back on and walked down the hall into darkness. Asriel looked at the book again for some reason it felt like a lead weight that he should drop it. Asriel held the book tightly he made his way to his room and sat at his desk.
Asriel placed the book down and gazed at it his lord said find something else to do. Perhaps he should torch it and focus on that. Yet Asriel recalled the state Noxus is in he knows he wants someone to listen to him. If he didn't he would not explain the meaning of the tree to him and the fact Noxus stated it's a tree of the gods it must be important in the future. Another thing he found noteworthy is his vision on the darkness the fact Noxus did not want to speak further on it shows he is hiding something.

Asriel opened the book again, he turned to the page he read it out loud all together "Darkness rises in ones mind. Darkness seeks vegnance for all that comes to it as it seeks to devour all that is sin. A shining sword pirces the darkness to set one free...." Asriel mused on the fact it's most likely related to the warband since sin is mentioned. The issue is identifying the darkness. Asriel began writing down possible theories on what that is he smiled it's been a long time since he last did this.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 15:34:25


Post by: lliu


Haha nice. The new direction is refreshing. All of a sudden he's back at square one and has to work it up again.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 16:03:43


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Haha nice. The new direction is refreshing. All of a sudden he's back at square one and has to work it up again.


The great thing about it is that Asriel did it to himself



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/27 19:18:44


Post by: lliu




Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/28 00:37:25


Post by: shinros


Chapter 27

A sword shall be buried it will drink deep from the well of corruption provided by the herald.

Noxus opened his eyes he gazed out of the small slit of his coffin the same chair is in its usual place machinery is strewn about the room. As always he felt cold he could not feel anything. He wanted this torment to end he wondered why Adelram kept him alive perhaps in his morbid sense of brotherly love Adelram thinks he is caring for him. Noxus could tell even in this room that corruption has truly set in. He recalled the days of the starlight king those days pale in comparison to what is occurring now on the ship.

Even at this moment he can hear someone being murdered right outside his door and his corpse being dragged away for whatever perversion the killer has uses for. Noxus wanted to sleep he willed himself to sleep it's the only time he ever has reprieve from this torment. Yet for some reason he could not sleep. Noxus mused on the last conversation he had with Adelram's creature. Noxus has been trying to figure out the dreams and visions but at some point he gave up he could not make sense of it hence he has found the creatures pestering to be annoying. Noxus still hated the creature always so sure of itself. Noxus wondered how much of the creature is human in his experience those possessed by neverborn become monstrosities ready to bounce on you or back stab you at any time. If the vision is what he think it is then his thinking is proved correct if he can be sure of what he saw which he never is.

Since being interred within this hulk he found he has lost all pretences the creature is an it. Still the creature is ready to give everything to whatever it set its mind to. In the past he watched the creature from a distance how his brothers fawned over it or praised it. Even so he could tell something has changed how the creature acted before shows that much.

Noxus chuckled "The creature provided so much for them yet they give back so little." Noxus as always tried to move the chains held him back. Noxus knew that they chained him so they could control him better. Noxus wondered if perhaps using this frame he could tear Silas' head off for his insults. He would show them all what he thinks of them, Noxus clenched a fist with the hand of the dreadnought.

As he did so he saw the door opening he sighed seeing who it was "Creature. I told you to go away." The creature sat in front of him as always at times when he is awake and it is sitting there Noxus simply remains silent hoping it would go away. Yet the creature sits there for hours at a time to his annoyance.

Noxus could see this time the creature was holding a board and small table it placed the table in front of the chair and placed the board down. Noxus looked at it in confusion "Why have you bought that here?" The creature looked up in surprise "Lord Noxus you are awake? Good!" Noxus sighed "I wish I was asleep now what do you want creature?" The creature began setting up pieces on the board he said "Regicide have you played it?" Noxus looked at the pieces "No. Also I have no interest in playing your stupid game creature." The creature smiled "You see my lord I personally think that this game reveals a lot about a person." Noxus thought on his words for some reason he wondered what kind of person he was. He was always in the background he held caution to a near virtue it kept him alive so far. If he heeded that he might of not been placed within this cold machine.
Noxus moved forward slightly "Explain the rules." The creature explained the rules in length certain pieces move certain distances and the goal of the game is to put the king in the position of capture. Noxus snorted it came out as a rumble "This is easy. You will move my pieces for me creature." The creatured nodded.

So they played the game what Noxus gathered during the game is that the creature tries to hold onto as many pieces as possible even the pawns that are more easily discardable. It is clear to him that the creature dislikes sacrificing pieces. Noxus narrowed his eyes "You lost an important piece because you wanted to save the pawn creature." The creature folded his arms "Your play style is really reserved Lord Noxus you wait to bait out the opponent. You want to see how he ticks." Noxus shifted his eyes at the board the creature was right he wanted to get the sense of how he played before he commits. Noxus recalled it's last words that he thinks this game can reveal a lot about a person. Noxus shifted his eyes to the creature he wondered if perhaps it is using this to understand him and vice versa?

Eventually the game ended in his win the creature looked at the board "You are pretty good at this." Noxus blinked looking at the board He deconstructed the creature's strategy it wanted to preserve as many pieces as possible. All Noxus had to do is bait him into moves that would expose them to harm. Noxus looked at the creature "So that's what kind of person you are. Tell me with your own mouth creature why you do what you do." The creature looked at him in surprise its voice was low as it said "I consider everyone family. I want to do my best to help them." Noxus heard these words enter his ears he was dumbfounded. He felt a range of shock to annoyance he simply laughed hard "This is rich! Unbelievable! Do you seriously believe that?!"

The creature nodded slowly "you can laugh but that's the way I feel." Noxus kept laughing as he said "Get out creature. Just get out of my sight you are foolish and blind." The creature gathered the small board and table along with the pieces it went to the door it turned slightly "I will be back same time tomorrow." Noxus chuckled he wanted to make a point to the creature before it left "You exist because Adelram finds you useful that's it. At times he finds you interesting. Yet in the end creature he does not consider you family of any sort you are seeking something or want something that is not there." The creature left the room in silence.

Silence, sweet silence no one to bother him he can sleep being awake is painful it's like the cold bites into the reminder of his skin. The liquid his body is held in also prickles at times. Noxus felt tired he wanted to sleep Noxus closed his eyes. Noxus felt his mind drifting as always he see's things in the darkness. This time he saw a planet he felt himself being dragged downwards towards it. He could see a hive city it was familiar for one reason or another. Noxus tried to think of where he saw it before as he was thinking in the skies appeared numbers 66224493. The planet and the numbers dissipated bringing him to darkness again. Noxus opened his eyes he wondered how much time passed. Sometimes when he awakens he finds himself on a battlefield other times he awakens to the stench of blood on his harness. This time there are two people poking around the room.

Both wore black robes one pointed their voice female in sound at least he thought it was "Naberius he is awake look!" The one who seemed to be Naberius walked foward "I wonder what he saw this time Sitri?" Noxus scowled "Slaves! I wonder how you got in here..." Sitri laughed and pointed at him "He is calling us slaves Naberius!" Naberius shook his head "Now now Sitri we are slaves of a sort. Slaves to him." Sitri shrugged "Still there is no way we would give ourselves to anyone here not after that." Naberius nodded in agreement. Noxus grew annoyed they spoke to him almost like a child if he was not chained he would break their bodies "Are you here to mock me?! What do you want?!" Naberius removed his hood as he did so Noxus felt a strange sensation it was the kind he got as the Nurgle's axe swung towards him. Noxus narrowed his eyes "Who do you work for? No what are you?"

Sitri nodded "Our master was right he seems pretty smart." Naberius scratched his chin "The question of who we work for and what we are is not important right now. I want to see whether you gave up or not." Noxus became confused "Speak plainly." Naberius coughed "Have you given up becoming a star? Have you given up trying to be important?" Naberius words were like barbs for some reason Noxus clenched his teeth "Look at me fool. What can I do? I am insulted reviled and stored away like a mere axe or sword." Sitri shrugged "I think he is giving up Naberius he is going to disappoint him."

Naberius waved to quiten Sitri "Just because your body is hacked in half is that a good enough reason to stop? One small bump on the road of complexity. One hurdle and you gave up? You still dream don't you?" When Noxus heard that he knew these people are dangerous. He does not know where they came from or who they served. He had no idea what they are. They knew too much who knows what else they might be hiding. Still Noxus thought on his words he is stuck in this situation because he is allowing himself to remain this way. He has only himself to blame for feeling like this no one is doing it to him. Nothing will get better if he tries to sleep to avoid. To deny what has happened to him Noxus stepped forward straining the chains instinctively clenching a dreadnought fist he shouted "I want to show them! I want to stand over them and gloat! I want them to know I am above them! I wish to throw every insult back! I am not a dead star! I am not a useless! I am not an invalid! " Naberius clapped "Good! Very good. You don't want to disappoint our master..."

Sitri almost twirled slightly "It seems our work is done Naberius. He must know what to do next." Naberius nodded "Indeed. It's time to leave." Naberius placed his hood back on Noxus watched both of them leaving the room.

Noxus thought on what they just said and they were right he would wait for the creature to return. No he would wait for Asriel to return since if they work something out he would be a creature no longer. Noxus felt something he had not felt in a long time warmth.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/28 21:54:32


Post by: shinros


Chapter 27

The giant plucks the corrupted blade from the ground now filled with the most vilest and most holy corruption.

Asriel sat in his room annotating Noxus' words he felt slightly annoyed with himself he thought he made some progress using the regicide game but in one moment all of that vanished. Asriel wondered if Noxus would even talk to him now as he was thinking Meliva's voice pierced his mind "told you it was a waste of time. Leave him let his mind wither and rot. His words are pointless you should not heed them." Asriel frowned "This is all I can do Meliva. I can't do anything else." Meliva coiled slightly in annoyance "Oh really? Why not cut loose enjoy the bounties of the ship? Our time would be better spent doing that than listening to a cripple and a fool."

Asriel moved his pen away from the paper his annoyance spilled out "Why do you keep trying to make me give up on him? You are quiet whenever I do anything else yet when it comes to Noxus you protest. Why?" Asriel waited for Meliva's barb or retort. Yet none came he could only hear his own thoughts. Asriel sighed "I will never understand neverborn."

Asriel closed the book it's around this time he vists Noxus. Still he doubted if he will get anything today. Asriel got up from his desk and left his room. Asriel walked the halls of the ship and in the distance he saw someone approaching. He was armed but Asriel payed no mind as Asriel got close and walked past Asriel heard the drawing of a blade. Asriel turned around the attacker screaming he bought down his blade"Die! Murderer!" Asriel narrowed his eyes he dodged to the side where the attacker is wielding his blade and grabbed his arm with one hand.
Asriel shook his head his assailant is struggling to free his arm "You should be aware that you can't kill me. Considering you are on this level of the ship." The attacker shouted "Shut up! Monster!" Asriel raised his eyebrow in confusion, Asriel released the arm of the person trying to kill him. He staggered back he balanced himself and came forward to attack again Asriel simply pushed downward with his hands. The attacker fell to the ground unable to move.

Asriel looked him over his attacker wore black robes his skin look scarred and he was bald with fair skin. Asriel frowned "Now will you please explain what you mean exactly? Or do I have to tear the answers out of you?" His attacker fell silent looking away it's clear he does not want to speak. Asriel sighed "Right I will tear the answers out then." Asriel's hands started to glow the attacker quickly flicked his head to him "No! Wait! Fine! Dammit! I will explain..." Asriel nodded "Right do you have a name?" His assailant looked at him in disgust "I won't give my name to you." Asriel shrugged "Fine at least explain why you tried to kill me." The attacker cast his head down slightly his voice breaking "You killed my wife and child! You tortured them and you devoured them!" He started to weep "I heard my boy calling out for his father as you tore him apart.... I was terrified I held my breath just hoping you would not see me..." Asriel gut felt empty for some reason yet he was also confused he did not recall devouring a woman and child recently.

Asriel shook his head "Murders happen on the ship all the time I don't ever recall harming your wife and child." The assailant clenched his fists "I saw you! So you are you going to Deny Paul's murder as well?! He had the same injuries when he was found! Everyone is talking about it!" Asriel recalled hearing a discussion about this before he rarely payed any mind to what the serfs discuss. "I don't recall killing anyone lately how can you be sure it's me? Can you describe this Paul then?" The attacker mumbled he then described Paul's looks in length. Asriel stroked his chin thinking a cold bead of sweat ran down his temple. The description of Paul is oddly similar to the person he was chasing in his dream. Yet it's impossible it was a dream he did not taste blood in his mouth either when he woke up. Asriel looked down at the man who attacked him"I will release you but if you try this again..." The assailant laughed "I got nothing to lose! If you let me go I will kill you fiend. He said I will feel happy again when I do it! She said I will feel joy as your blood is spilled on the floor!"

Asriel sighed in annoyance he made his hand form a gripping motion and twisted his assilant head moved abnormally as the neck snapped. Asriel looked at the corpse for a moment he turned away and continued down the hall he ground his teeth he spoke within his mind putting as much force as he can within his words "Meliva! Do you know anything about this?!" Asriel felt his pace increasing he felt anxious and his annoyance was increasing. Meliva's silence did not help either, Asriel called again "Meliva!" Meliva hissed within his mind "What do you want?" Asriel stopped he clenched his hands "I just killed a man who claims I killed his wife and child! He is also linking me with another murder! Do you know anything about this?!" Meliva coiled gently within his breast "Please. The man is a fool if I made you kill someone I would pick far better targets." Asriel placed his hand on his chest "Yet the description of Paul matched the person in the dream I had. What... is happening to me?" Meliva chuckled "Don't worry it's just a dream he has no proof. Considering the state of the ship he could of seen anything and don't forget murder is normal here."

Asriel heard Meliva's words yet he could not believe them. It did not reassure him considering how many times he had those dreams how many people might actually be dead? A familiar sort of despair began setting in a despair he has not felt in 100 years Meliva cooed "Calm yourself that is not happening." Asriel's mouth felt dry Meliva's words only made him recall that moment even more.

Asriel closed his eyes he tried to focus on his current task with Noxus to keep his mind off that dangerous thought.

Asriel finally made his way to Noxus' room he opened the door using the panel. As Asriel walked in he looked up at the dreadnought Asriel wondered if Noxus is even awake. Asriel sat down on the chair he opened his book and waited. After a few seconds a voice came from the dreadnought to Asriel's surprise "Asriel."

Asriels eyes went wide "You said my name? What? Why?" Noxus chuckled "I had a change in perspective." Asriel was in disblief "That quickly?" Noxus voice came through the vox speaker again his voice firm "I did have a change in perspective but I also have terms."
Asriel nodded "What are your terms Lord Noxus?" Noxus walked forward slightly he strained the chains "I have two terms. My first is that you find a means for us to discuss our findings privately. I don't want the creature you are sharing your body with to listen in on us." Asriel furrowed his brows "Lord Noxus may I ask why you are deciding such a term?" Noxus gripped the fist of the dreadnought "I do not trust it. What I tell you might effect it that is all I will say on the matter." Meliva gave a low hiss "Don't waste your time with this thing reject it. Reject it now." Asriel listened to Meliva's protests he closed his eyes for a moment thinking as he opened them he looked up to Noxus "Right what is your second term?"

Noxus stopped straining the chains "My second term is that you don't mention a word of our discussions to anyone until we are both satisfied we have reached the appropriate conclusion of my visions." Asriel suddenly felt unsure on the second term they might discover something together that would be useful to his lord.

Still Asriel did think if he displayed all of the findings together at the end his lord might find something even more useful for him to use. Asriel nodded "I agree with your terms Lord Noxus." The hands of the dreadnought twisted Noxus said "Good. Now I assume you will be getting to work completing the first term yes? From all that I have seen of you Asriel you are resourceful."

Meliva began thrashing in his chest Asriel gasped slightly "Why?! Why?! He has nothing useful to say! All of these terms are in his favour!" Asriel clenched his chest "Or perhaps Meliva he will say something you don't want me to hear." Asriel felt Meliva drawing back slightly "No. It's more the fact he wants to manipulate us. Use us for his own benefit." Asriel closed his eyes he spoke out loud "There is nothing wrong with that Meliva." The thrashing stopped and Meliva fell silent he looked up to Noxus "I will begin working on that right away." Noxus voice boomed out of the dreadnought speaker "Good. I look forward to when we can speak freely."

Asriel got up and left the room he walked down the hall wondering how he could complete that term. It would take advance sorcery to block the sight of a neverborn yet a part of Asriel doubts that his lord will help him considering he thinks Noxus is useless. Asriel thought on asking Isira but he knows that she will try to manipulate him somehow for her benefit.

Asriel soon reached the door of his room he was still thinking his mind drifted to Naberius and Sitri Asriel smiled "I could ask both of them. They should be at Marthas' temple" Asriel said under his breath. As he said those words he could feel, no he knows Meliva is scowling she said "You mustn't go to those two. You can't trust them." Asriel opened the door of his room "Yet I can trust you?" Asriel could feel Meliva relaxing she is now speaking gently "Yes, think about it all I have given you. I made you strong. I made you feared. I opened your mind to the power of the dark prince. All that you did on Zatos would not be possible if it was not for me. Our master values us because of me. I am thinking of about our interests."

Asriel walked into his room he placed the book on the desk. He touched it lightly with his fingers "He valued me before that Meliva." Meliva continued to speak gently "Yet things change. If I was gone what could you do? You would not be the same person if I was removed you will be nothing. Yes you are now a psyker but you would will become a broken human walking among demi-gods. Look at the one in iron to see what they do to one of their own who is a cripple. What do you think our master would do to you? If you became a mewling Invalid? A beggar of attention licking your masters boots at his every word?" Meliva kept pressing "He would chain you to his room like a slave and use your screams in the song he is making with Camila. I bet you did not expect bringing her over would turn out like this? First name bases. He now spends all his time with her and not with you. I can taste it Asriel he is frightened of getting bored of you he is already starting to feel it. Why do you think he gave you that order? Yet you ignore it since you feel you know better. You ignore him and you ignore me when we have your best interests in mind...."

Asriel listened to her words carefully he brushed his fingers down his book thinking on the past and what lead him to this point he smiled "Then that is how it has to be then. If he is more happy with her than me then I am also happy Meliva. As I said I think this will be important Naberius said I will suffer for pursuing this road and suffer I must." Meliva scoffed "You are a fool." Asriel nodded "Indeed. I have been a fool for a long time but that's just how I am a fool pursing a foolish need but it's my need. It's what I want and working on this will help them I know it." Meliva laughed mockingly "Then pursue this foolish road then. I will laugh when you trip."

Asriel closed his eyes "I expect to be bruised and broken by the end of this Meliva. The road of the dark prince is ever complex."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/11/28 21:54:50


Post by: shinros


Oddly enough I really enjoyed writing this chapter.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/01 02:47:16


Post by: shinros


Chapter 28

The sword of corruption will strike out against the enemies of the Herald.

Marthas is walking to a location few would like to go to if they do it's either to mock the person or belittle them. He is going there to salvage something of value Silas is with him. As Silas walked the sound from his boots were like thunder due to the terminator armour. Silas sighed in annoyance "Why are we bothering with him? He is useless." Marthas grinned "What of you before I convinced you to follow me?" Silas grunted "I am different. He won't listen he is broken Adelram has seen to that. Even now after he has lost everything he won't join under someone or even fight I wonder why Adelram simply does not kill him and be done with it."

Marthas listened to Silas' words but he could not turn away after committing to this action it's his role and duty to hone the elite of the warband to a razor point. It consumes all of his time constantly Astartes come to his temple to ask to be made perfect. To be powerful and to be strong. Marthas muttered a small prayer he knew he had to do this to attain his vision, Marthas looked down the hall he could see someone approaching someone familiar. Normally these days he simply walks by the person who is approaching but this time is different. Marthas stopped "Asriel? I can see you want something. If you do not know I have things to do." Asriel stopped he looked up "Do you know where Naberius and Sitri are?" The question threw Marthas off guard no one ever sought them out and those within the temple always gave both of them a wide birth.

Ever since he found his path his need it utterly consumed him Marthas found the more planets they attacked the more focused he becomed. Everything else not pertaining to his need he felt was a distraction but this time he felt a tinge of curisoity "May I ask why Asriel?"
Asriel looked down slightly thinking, Marthas wondered what sort of plan he is weaving in his head. Such a request in all his years that he has known Asriel something big might be happening. Asriel shook his head "I can't say unfortunately." As soon as Asriel said those words Marthas found his curiosity was expanding ever so slowly he shook his head he can't allow himself to get distracted he needed to focus "They are in the temple their room is in the far back." Asriel nodded he gave a slight bow before he left.

Silas looked at Asriel leaving when he vanished into the darkness Marthas could see Silas has began staring at him "You are not curious?" Marthas turned to Silas "No." Marthas lied. Silas raised his shoulders in a slight shrug "Considering he is asking of those two.. are you sure he is not planning anything major?" Marthas looked down the hall "I am sure it's nothing. He has not changed or found a focus since we left Zatos." Silas nodded his terminator helmet bobbing slightly "Yes, I have seen also seen this what does Adelram think of this?" Marthas stroked his chin in contemplation "Well.. considering how much time he spends with Camila I believe Asriel is in danger."

Silas chuckled slightly "Really? Her music is lovely but I don't think he would get rid of Asriel." Marthas shook his head in disagreement "You have seen how Adelram is changing yes? All those... little things we do after we raid a planet?" Marthas could tell Silas is grinning as he mentioned the the past raids. Silas said "Oh yes I recall that he tried his hand at painting some of the captured slaves. He then tore out their souls and placed it within the picture I wish we could of taken some of them with us." Marthas nodded "Indeed after that the second planet we.. devoured the populace and Adelram ate the most out of all of us." Silas shook his head in confusion "Are you going to make a point soon?" Marthas rubbed his neck he sighed "He is doing all of this to bring the attention of h- our father." Marthas licked his lips slightly it did not feel exactly right to say but he was getting used to it "Now in my eyes we have not even reached the tip of the iceberg we are far from that but who is he now involving in reaching it? Not Asriel of course. Adelram is even using Isabella and Isira far more. The one he is turning to is Camila most of all. Think of us as well since Asriel provided the bounties of the ship have we approached him for anything?"

Silas began nodding in understanding "I see what we want does not require Asriel to be involved he has already provided everything of worth to us to move along our path." Marthas smiled "Indeed he gave so much but in the end it caused us to lose interest somewhat." Silas rubbed his helmet "So if you know this why do you largely ignore him then? You have known him the longest longer than Adelram." Marthas folded his arms "It's because I know that he would want me to focus on my path than for me to fawn over him like all the other serfs. He does not plot to rise in any form Asriel only wishes to serve our needs and if we don't require him he would not mind either. What I am worried about now is Adelram's reaction to that."

Silas mused out loud "Why would Adelram's reaction be a problem?" Marthas lowered his arms and stopped he turned to Silas who stopped in turn "He is pushing further and harder compared to any one of us. From my discussions with Naberius and Sitri he is welling up with the favour of the dark prince I can see it and if you look closely you should be able to see it as well. Now I am sure Adelram has most likely told Asriel to pursue something that would catch his eye but I know Asriel wouldn't all he knows is how to serve not much else. He kills in order to serve Adelram's needs and he learns new things for our sake but what if Adelram does not need that? In my eyes Adelram no longer requires that now what is holding Adelram's hand? At this moment?" Silas cocked his head slightly the helmet shifting "I see. So what is holding his hand then?" Marthas smiled he could tell it chilled Silas somewhat considering how he shifted "I believe two things Sentimentality the last shreds he is most likely clinging to. Now the practical reason? The largest aspect of why he is holding on to him? Is that at this moment Asriel is possessed that has uses. Still will that usefulness remain the more powerful Adelram gets?"

Marthas turned away and continued to walk down the hall he could hear Silas followed suit Silas said "So if he does become useless to Adelram what will he do? Kill him? I am not sure about that." As Silas said those words they stopped in front of a door Marthas turned his head in Silas' direction "He would. Would you put it past him? From what I hear one mistake he stuffed Asriel in a cage to largely rot and die and when the ship was being destroyed Asriel was not even mentioned and Adelram did not seem entirely worried about his safety this was before he gave into his excess completely. He seemed far more concerned that he could not for fill his wish to have our father notice him."

Marthas could tell Silas is thinking he spoke after a few seconds "So what will you do if it comes to that? Asriel had his uses in the past but I would not shed a tear for his death he is still technically a slave after all." Marthas frowned "If it does come to that I will try to convince Adelram to hand Asriel over to me but I doubt he will do it. One time to insult me he said if I wanted Asriel that I can have him when he was in the grips of despair but now? His pride won't allow it." Marthas moved to open the door "Enough of that I need to focus on the task. Salvaging that one into something more." Marthas looked into the room it is dimly lighted he could see an Astartes in the corner sitting wearing a black robe. His face frozen into a grin but Marthas knew that at this moment he is feeling no such thing there is no joy or humour there. Only doubt, regret and shame.

Marthas walked into the room wtih Silas Marthas said "Sebastian." Sebastian looked up he scowled and turned away Marthas raised his hands in a gesture of peace "Easy. I am not here to mock you or to laud you failures over you. I personally believe you can't grow if you don't fail." Sebastian held his place Marthas walked forward "You speak to no one. when people come here they come to shame and humiliate you. You say nothing in turn when they do so."

Marthas continued "I know in your mind the scene is replaying the laughter, the mocking it won't end. I can give you what you crave." Sebastian turned slightly "Can you? What do I want then?" Marthas smiled "Silence." Sebastian looked down slightly "It won't stop. The doubt, the failures, the pain... everything. So much noise.." Marthas reached out his hand "I can make the voices stop. I can make you perfect." Sebastian edged back "Lies! You still seek to mock me! Humiliate me!" Silas Scowled "See useless." Marthas shook his head "You can stay here Sebastian in this dim room the doubt consuming you forever. The sounds of your failures repeating forever more in your mind and the jeers of our brothers at your defeat pounding within your skull."

Marthas stretched out his hand further "or you could come with me. Take it Sebastian I will give you the silence you so desire." Marthas can see Sebastian is unsure he most likely thinks he has an ulterior motive but he knew Sebastian has no other choice. Marthas knows he hates being here and being stuck in this state.

Sebastian reached out his hand slowly. Marthas smiled as Sebastians hand edged closer he gripped Marthas' hand Sebastian said "Make it stop.. Please.." Marthas nodded "I will. Now rise I will take you to the place that will remold you."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/04 15:40:30


Post by: shinros


Chapter 29

The sky cracks blue as the bird screams for release.

Asriel made his way to the temple he found it odd that Marthas has not decided to give ths abode an actual name. Asriel thought upon it for a moment but decided in the end it matched Marthas' personality he is not a flashy individual that one aspect has not changed.
Asriel found himself at the twin doors, Asriel pushed the doors open as the doors opened a bellow of pink mist erupted from the doors. Asriel slowly walked through as Asriel entered the temple the first thing he saw was large censers hanging from the ceiling swinging in the air releasing a pink mist.

At the back of the temple he saw two statues. One male and another female both looked similar both had flowing long hair with 4 horns sprouting out of the hair. The statues wore somewhat revealing armour but Asriel could tell that Marthas tried to replicate what he saw in the vision. Looking at the statues in their glory Asriel overall preferred Marthas' temple over Ivan's place of worship.

As Asriel was thinking he heard a clash of steel. Two Astartes relentlessly fighting each other their armour looked heavily gashed Asriel wondered how long have they been fighting for. Hooded serfs watched their masters fight ready to attend to their needs if it arises after the duel was done.
Asriel looked around the temple a similar thing was occurring, Asriel did wonder how exactly Marthas' decided to hand out the suits of terminator armour. All he knows is that getting one is a prize that many in the temple seek. Asriel turned his gaze to the first duel he was looking at before watching their blades move through the air was oddly memorising to him.

To Asriel watching the Astartes train he knew that if he fought them now he won't win unless delves deep into the well of power that Meliva provides. The issue is that there is certain risks doing that. As the duel went on Asriel found one of the Astartes diverting his eyes to him as he parried his opponents strike the Astartes quickly turned on his power blade and made a large slash across the breastplate of his opponent.

Asriel heard a grunt from the injured Astartes he looked up "You broke the rules!" The Astartes who was the victor of the duel shrugged "I haven't" he pointed in Asriel's direction. The injured Astartes looked back slightly and hissed "Adelram's pet was not here when we started. Marthas sai-" Asriel watched the argument continue the Astartes who lost his serfs surrounded him clearly concerned. Asriel frowned the one who lost is making excuses he should expect the unexpected. The victor was observant and used it to his advantage anything can happen on the battlefield or even when fighting 1v1.

Normally Marthas' does not have them train with activated weapons unless he is present but in this instance he was. Asriel walked towards them the injured Astartes looked at him "Hurry up and fix it." Asriel nodded "Yes my lord." Meliva coiled in anger she hissed "we should not take such talk from one such as he." Asriel tried to concentrate Meliva's anger made it difficult Asriel hovered his hand over the wound a small purple light erupted from his hand. Asriel noted that the wound is quite deep he is surprised the Astartes took it so well or perhaps he is used to such wounds.
Asriel recalled the time Marthas' made them all train with activated power hammers and maces. The amount of broken bones and limbs he had to reattach that day it consumed all his time that he did not get a chance to visit Noxus.

Asriel slowly sealed the wound the Astartes hissed "Hurry up already!" Asriel grimaced he tried not to be obvious about it "I want to close the wound properly. I can't do it if I hurry." The Astartes grunted in annoyance "If you were my slave I would of flogged you for several hours if you talked back to me in such a fashion."

Asriel frowned as he finished sealing the wound he removed his hand "It is done my lord." The Astartes simply turned away without another word. The Astartes who won the duel shrugged "You want another round? I will win again." Asriel looked at the Astartes he just healed he charged right back into the fray Asriel knew it's most likely he will get injured again.

Asriel looked to the back of the temple he saw a wooden door he suspected that's where Naberius and Sitri are. As Asriel walked over Meliva cooed gently in his mind "You hate him." Asriel shook his head "I am just doing my duty Meliva." Meliva continued to speak gently "Don't deny it you want to see if you can kill one of them. How about instead of chasing useless visions and listening to a cripple we wait for that Astartes to leave and kill him when he is by himself? No one would know." Asriel closed his eyes he whispered to himself "I would."

Meliva sighed in annoyance and grew quiet to Asriel's relief. Asriel made his way to the door he stopped in front of it. Asriel grasped the handle and turned the door handle slowly he opened the door and walked in. Asriel felt conflict he knew that his lord has ordered him not to pursue this path but now he can only walk forward its too late.

Asriel looked around the room slik sheets lined the walls there was also the smell of thick incense within the room. Asriel could see Naberius sitting on the chair. There was also a chair in front of Naberius to Asriel it was like he was expecting someone. Asriel scanned the room again he saw Sitri she is relaxing on a large bed in the corner. Sitri jolted to attention as Asriel entered the room "Oh look Naberius we have a visitor! That's pretty rare isn't it?" Naberius leaned back in the chair "It is! I am quite curious why Asriel has decided to visit us."

Asriel frowned he folded his arms "I am here to ask a favour." Sitri rolled on the bed laughing "Why should we do it? We did our part just like he instructed." Naberius tapped his fingers together "Now, now Sitri/ Asriel would come to us for a good reason he is not such a person that would waste our time." Naberius gestured to Asriel to sit on the chair in front of him. Asriel walked over to the chair and sat down as Asriel sat in the chair he sank slightly into the chair is Asriel noted it was quite comfortable.

Asriel looked to Naberius who is now grinning he said "Right what can we do for you?" Asriel rubbed his neck his mouth felt dry as he spoke "Lord Noxus has terms before he discusses his visions with me. He wishes for me to find a way to close Meliva off to our discussions." Naberius nodded "It seems Noxus is quite intelligent..." Asriel raised his eyebrow "I can see that. To me it seems like you understand the implications of why he wants me to do this."

Naberius smirked "See this is why he is turning to both of you for this." Asriel started to get cross they keep referring to their mysterious master without stating who he is. Asriel wondered if their master can be trusted. "I wonder truly who are both of you working for? What is your stake in me getting to pursue this path?"

Sitri crawled off the bed she walked over to the chair Naberius is sitting on she leaned slightly on the chair. "Our master the great one has a stake in this so we have a stake in this for now let's just focus on what you want." Asriel heard Sitri's words he held onto the word great one it's possible they might be following the orders of a greater shard. Yet Asriel could not think of why one would take such interest in him working with Noxus to unravel is his visions.

Asriel nodded "Fine I will drop it so as you were saying Naberius you are going to show me how to have private discussions with Noxus without Meliva overhearing?" Naberius smiled "Indeed it's quite simple actually and the fact that both you and the one in iron is gifted allows the process to be less straining." Naberius tapped his forehead "First thing is that you connect both of your minds together and create a small area within it that one cannot breach."

Asriel digested the information Naberius just told him thinking about it in theory it makes sense. Asriel stared at Naberius "So how do we do this then?" Naberius held his grin "I shall show you." Naberius eyes turned black like the void of space as Asriel stared it was like Naberius was drawing him in. Drawing his mind forward Asriel pushed back it did not feel right as he did so Naberius said gently "Don't resist."

Hearing those words Asreil tried to relax he felt his vision going dark and after a few seconds Asriel found himself in a strange place all there was is darkness. Asriel touched his chest he could not feel Meliva's influence either. It was oddly gone it was strange to feel such a sensation.
Asriel looked around, suddenly Naberius appeared in front of him Asriel stepped back slightly "Where are we?" Naberius gestured around with his hand "We are having a private discussion we have connected our minds in such a fashion that none can interfere. This technique comes with other benefits. You can change the scenery." Nebarius waved his hand slightly the darkness twisted and distorted the scenery changed Asriel then found himself in a cathedral.

Asriel looked around he could see grand statues of the primarch's far more grand than the statues within the church he used to visit on Athor. Asriel felt confused slightly he wondered why Naberius chose to take him here he could see Naberius staring at a grand mural each piece of it was painted delicately. Asriel could see Naberius staring at it smiling.

Asriel walked over "So why did you bring me here?" Naberius turned around "Well this will be important for your journey." Asriel raised his eyebrow "How? I don't even know where this place is." Naberius nodded "Of course you have never been here but this cathedral is located in a place familiar to you. This church exists to this day on the upper levels of Athor."

As Asriel heard the mention of his home planet it filled him with a odd sense of hatred and disgust "I don't care about my planet Naberius." Naberius nodded "I can see why they have an odd practice that by law those who live in the undercity are not allowed to bare names. The Arbites also heavily enforce this. Of course there are stories of families and people being taken if they try to do such a thing. I assure you those stories are true have you ever wondered why though? They target specific families though even though it's a open secret that many in the populace have odd nicknames or rather.. plain names."

Asriel found his mouth drying slightly he was curious "Why is that the case Naberius?" Naberius gestured to the Mural "As you can see this Mural tells a story of sorts how Athor joined the imperium." Asriel looked the Mural over Asriel could see Naberius is right it is telling a story "I see so I assume you know it?" said Asriel. Naberius nodded in agreement "Indeed I do. So listen."

Naberius pointed at the first picture it showed people in chains and a blacked out figure wearing a gauntlet and wielding a great sword of darkness "The people of Athor the true people touched by the light of the god-emperor were beaten and enslaved by the king of darkness. All the tribes that followed the heretic used these people for their own whims."

Asriel folded his arms he knew it's likely the actual story has been distorted with time still if Naberius wished him to listen he shall do so. Naberius moved to the next picture one slave light pouring upon him prayed with hands reaching out to the sky. Naberius continued the story "One slave who bore most of this light reached out to the sky and prayed for salvation for the god-emperor to send his children to free them from the evil heretics."

Asriel frowned he had a good guess what would happen next, Naberius coughed slightly as he gestured to the next image a giant figure in armour with a halo surrounding their head they scorched the heretical tribes with rays of light Asriel assumed this to be a primarch. Around the primarch were those in similar less embellished armour, they were smaller in stature but towered over the heretical tribes they were stabbing and hacking away at them with shining blades.

Naberius spread his hands out "The slave's plea was heard the god-emperor sent down his holy child to free them. The heretical tribes tried to call foul withcraft but were burned in the light and cast down by the emperor's child." Asriel held his hand out and spoke up "Do they ever mention which legion and which primarch came to this planet?" Naberius turned to Asriel he gave a chilling grin "Clever child." Naberius simply turned to the mural again and moved to the next picture

Asriel rubbed his neck in annoyance he should of known better that he would not answer he still did not understand why Naberius is going through this story with him. Asriel then looked at the next image Naberius was standing before it showed the "King of darkness" at the lower right corner of the picture pointing his sword upwards to the child of emperor. Naberius hackled before speaking "Now. The king of darkness watched the tribes under him being smashed aside by the forces of the god-emperor so he sought to challenge the emperor's child to single combat."
Asriel could not help but laugh slightly he spoke out loud "I assume he got annihilated." Naberius ignored him as he gestured to the second to last image the king of darkness stabbing his sword downwards unto the king of darkness his black blood leaking all over the bottom of the image around the corners of the image were the slaves bowing to the child of the emperor. Naberius sighed "The ex-slaves were freed from the tyranny of the king of darkness he was broken and smashed asunder by the might of the child of the emperor. The child of the emperor returned the planet to their rightful owners and they joined the grand imperium of the god-emperor."

Asriel looked at the last image the child of the god emperor stood with the ex-slaves he held his weapon over a group of people they were not black like the heretical tribes and the king of darkness but grey. This last image made Asriel curious Asriel felt he was letting it show clearly since Naberius turned his head slightly to him grinning "You are curious about the last image?" Asriel nodded "I am I doubt they killed off all of the heretical tribes during the war."

Naberius silently turned back to the mural he said "The child of the god-emperor held his weapon over the children and the young men and women of the heretical tribes. He offered them mercy but in penance their lives and their lands now belong to the rightful owners of the planet and the imperium itself. This was his decree."

Naberius turned to Asriel "So what do you think Asriel?" Asriel was not sure what to think so he asked a question "Are they still alive? The ones spared?" Naberius stroked his chin "In a manner of speaking. They are still alive to this day living in the undercity in a sense."
Asriel felt his heart sinking he asked his next question "So.. why don't they have names then? Also how come the undercity church's don't have this mural?" Naberius smiled "Considering how they named themselves back then I could see why they would take it away. Now the mural question? You will find out.." Asriel frowned "You did not answer my question." Naberius shrugged "The Mural is a bonus Asriel. I have explained how to do this technique and the benefits of it."

Asriel looked around the cathedral was now bleeding away Asriel blinked he was not sitting in the chair in front of Naberius. Sitri looked to both of them rapidly "What did you show him Naberius? Asriel looks clearly.. uncomfortable." Asriel rose from his seat slowly "I thank you for the lesson. One more thing It's clear there is a reason why there is such a reverence for primarchs on my planet? Even the church I visited had statues of them, I assume the people of Athor have no idea who "saved" them correct?"

Naberius nodded "Indeed that is the case now you have work to do don't you?" Asriel looked away slightly and then back to Naberius he nodded "I do. Thank you for your time." Asriel walked out of the room and entered the temple again. As he did so Meliva came rushing into his mind "What did he tell you? What did you see?" Asriel folded his arms "Wouldn't you like to know?" Meliva hissed Asriel could feel her retreating back slowly.

Asriel looked at the exit and nodded he indeed had work to do.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/04 15:40:47


Post by: shinros


Sooo some history on Athor. What do you think?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/05 02:55:44


Post by: Dayknight




I liked the background on athor, your pretty good at foreshadowing whats coming next. One thing though is that you might of overplayed your hand a little with the night dreams asriel is having haha. Also asriel just seems a little too oblivious during this whole process. I feel like he should have more questions and concerns he might be being used. Also i feel like he should be trusting meliva a bit more... then again she seems to have her own "nightly" agenda haha! good stuff man.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/05 05:24:52


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:


I liked the background on athor, your pretty good at foreshadowing whats coming next. One thing though is that you might of overplayed your hand a little with the night dreams asriel is having haha. Also asriel just seems a little too oblivious during this whole process. I feel like he should have more questions and concerns he might be being used. Also i feel like he should be trusting meliva a bit more... then again she seems to have her own "nightly" agenda haha! good stuff man.


Oh yeah there are many times when writing where I feel I might be too obvious about certain events(you have no idea how many times I rewrote certain bits) or what the characters are dealing with I am trying to balance it out. It's not easy and indeed there is a specific reason why Noxus wants to discuss things with Asriel in private and partly Asriel does not want to admit he might be losing control. The reason Noxus gives is pretty huge and I am trying to plan how Asriel will react to it.

Even if it's been one hundred years the cage event is still pretty fresh in his mind and Asriel overall does not really trust neverborn his relationship with Meliva is more or a less a give and take sort of thing also it's the whole church event that leads him to why he can't trust her at all. The reason he does not think much of it because really he has eaten people in the past being possessed comes with weird dreams also.

I do appreciate the feedback though. I will take it on board!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/05 06:10:04


Post by: Dayknight



Your a fantastic author shinros you really have a gift for writing. I try to stay away from this page so i can read a solid block of chapters but you make it difficult!



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/05 07:02:48


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:

Your a fantastic author shinros you really have a gift for writing. I try to stay away from this page so i can read a solid block of chapters but you make it difficult!



Thanks I appreciate your words! I got plenty of time tomorrow so more will come!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/05 11:16:39


Post by: lliu


Nice! Well now we know what happened. It will definitely be interesting to see what Noxus has to say.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/06 15:25:20


Post by: shinros


Chapter 29

The ones in crimson red shall spread their colour over all that is in sight.

Asriel made his way over to Noxus room he felt ready like he is making some progress at last. Finally he can now start unravelling Noxus' visions. Asriel stopped in front of Noxus' door he entered the code and walked in. Asriel walked up to the dreadnought he had his journal in hand he looked up to Noxus "Lord Noxus are you awake?"

Noxus twisted the fists of the dreadnought "I am. Is my first term met?" Asirel nodded "Indeed I have the means to discuss your visions privately." As Asirel said this Noxus gripped the bulky fingers together "Right. Now the second do I have your word? If I catch wind that you told someone..." Asriel nodded again slowly "I won't tell a soul not until we are both satisfied." Noxus responded joyfully "Good. Now how are we going to speak?"

Asriel smiled "We will join our minds and create a space. The space can be altered and changed so whatever you saw in your visions you can show me." Noxus lowered his fists to Asriel he seemed to be relaxing "Good, I assume you know what you are doing?" Asriel rubbed his neck "Well... yes."

Noxus sighed "You don't, anyway just hurry up and do it." Asriel walked forward he raised his hand to Noxus' sarcophagus. Asriel tried to remember that feeling he had with Naberius. Asriel felt Meliva coiling "Think of what you are about to do Asriel. There is not going back after this!" Asriel tried to block out Meliva's voice Asriel knew it was too late for that. Asriel could hear Noxus grunting "What.. are you doing?!" Asriel spoke firmly "Don't resist lord Noxus just let it happen!"

Noxus fell quiet Asriel felt his vision darkening. He closed his eyes then opened them he was now in a familiar empty space. He looked around wondering if it worked. Asriel turned and suddenly Noxus was in front of him he was in his power armour he was whole. Noxus was not wearing a helmet either. Noxus looked at himself in annoyance "Is this some kind of bad joke?" Asriel held his hands together "I assume this is how you see yourself or what you wish to go back to."

To Asriel Noxus looked incredibly sad, Asriel tried to smile "Well. We are here how should we begin?" Noxus looked up "Where do you wish to start?" Asriel held his chin thinking he looked to his hand and thought of his journal he needed it.

Asriel focused and after a second he felt the weight of his book in his hand he held it up to Noxus. Asriel held his grin "We got a lot to do my lord." Noxus looked around "You said you this space can be altered?" Asriel nodded "Yes so you should be able to conjure your vision. Just think of it and adjust the space."

Asriel flicked through the book "Well how about with start with this one? Darkness rises in one's mind?" Noxus frowned "How about you pick another?" Asriel folded his arms "My lord I think this one is pretty significant I learned how to do this so we can speak privately." Asriel could see Noxus clenching his hands "Are you sure you want to see?" Asriel nodded "I do."

Noxus raised his hands to the darkness it twisted and changed "I assume that passage refers to this." Asriel looked around he could see they were now on the ship. Asriel scratched his head "Right the ship. I wonder what you saw here?" Noxus gestured "You will see in a moment. I pray this is just a mere possibility." Out of the darkness he saw a serf running screaming for his life after a few seconds Asriel saw something that shook him to the very core. He saw himself holding his head twitching as he ran after the serf his eyes black like the void horns sprouting out of his head. Asriel could see himself gripping his head he roared and dropped on all fours and chased the serf.

Asriel leaped upon the serf dragging him down tearing him to pieces devouring him. Asriel felt oddly cold "I-I see. This confirms it then." Noxus turned "Confirms what?" Asriel stepped back slightly, Noxus took a step towards him "So you have already been doing this then? You are that far gone?"

Asriel shook his head "I still have control! I just have to figure out how to make these... out goings stop..." Noxus creased his brow "So when do they happen? How often?" Asriel looked away "I have been getting strange dreams. Dreams were the norm I thought nothing of it but lately..." Noxus turned his head slightly to the serf "When I saw this I knew right away the neverborn in your head can't be trusted. What comes next..."

Asriel perked up "What do you mean what comes next?" Noxus folded his arms "I assume there is a next passage correct?" Asriel turned the page slowly Asriel spoke slowly "Darkness seeks vengeance for all that comes to it as it seeks to devour all that is sin." Noxus mused "Never knew I could be poetic at times." Asriel looked up "I assume it has something to do with the warband?" Noxus nodded "Indeed it does. Tell me are you able to handle what I am going to show you?"

Asriel nodded slowly "I am ready. Show me." Noxus raised his hand again the image changed they were now on a battlefield it looked to be a city. Gunfire is pouring in different directions. Asriel saw his lord running forward and he was behind him. Asriel could not help but feel slightly happy he learned how to kill effectively because he wanted to be beside him in battle. He wanted to be useful.

Asriel watched himself and his lord running forward his black cloak bellowing moving unnaturally in the wind. Asriel watched himself drawing his sword but what happened next caused a giant pit to envelop his heart. Despair began to envelop his whole being Asriel could not even see the movement as he watched himself plunge his blade straight through his lords neck.

Asriel watched himself twist the blade, his lord did not see it coming he did not expect it. Asriel watched as he simply crumpled to the ground blood pooling from his neck. Asriel watched himself twitch slightly after the deed was done Asriel saw himself releasing a distorted laugh. A mocking laugh.

Asriel's mouth felt dry he looked up at Noxus "It's impossible. It's a lie." Noxus shrugged "It's what I saw." Asriel ground his teeth in anger "It's a lie! It must be a lie! I would never do that! I would never..." Noxus walked towards him and poked his head Asriel rubbed it slightly annoyed Asriel said "Why did you do that?!" Noxus sighed "From what I understand this is a possibility yes?"

Asriel nodded "Well yes.. visions show possibilities. I don't like this one..." Noxus nodded "Now you can see why I did not speak of it out loud. How would the neverborn in your head react? What would it do? Still now that you know of this possiblity what will you do about it?"
Asriel looked away "I don't know.. removing a neverborn is a difficult process. But I could..." Noxus narrowed his eyes "You can't die until I am satisfied Asriel! Don't you even dare think of doing that! If you do that you are breaking the second term!" Asriel gripped his journal tightly he hissed "What can I do then?! I have no other choice!"

Noxus shook his head "I assume you have the next part? How about we look at that." Asriel looked down at the book he sighed "Alright." Asriel flicked through the pages of his journal "This passage lord Noxus you spoke loudly. You shouted and your voice distorted." Asriel fingered the passage and read it out loud "A shining sword pirces the darkness to set one free." Asriel closed his journal"Does that mean anything?"

Noxus stroked his chin he waved his hand the scenery changed again they were underground it looked to be a hive city. There are several exposed pipes with water pouring out of them. There is a fence to keep people from falling over the edge. Asriel walked over to the fence he looked down he could see a large water pipe the top of it is exposed, water is still passing through it..

Noxus walked to the fence he stood with him looking over the fence as well "So do you recognise this place?" Asriel shrugged "It's a hive city that's clear enough but this looks like to be the lower level." Noxus nodded "Right the important part should be coming up shortly we should turn about now." Asriel turned with Noxus again he saw himself he had men and women in black trench coats with him pointing guns at a group. They also wore hoods with a gasmask.

Asriel squinted his eyes the group they were pointing their guns at he could not see them they were covered in a bright light. Noxus shrugged "Don't bother I could not make them out either." Asriel stopped squinting his eyes after a few seconds a bright blue sword flicked out. Asriel watched himself charge relentlessly at the person who bore the blade. The wielder of the glowing blade readied themselves. The men and women with him opened fire.

What happened next shocked Asriel he literally watched himself allow the person he is facing to impale him through the gut with the blade. Asriel heard a chilling scream his voice and the voice of Meliva's were distinct they were not mixed together they were both in pain. He can hear Meliva howling in anger "You traitor! You fool! Look at what you have done!"

The scene distorted it twisted until it eventually bled away into darkness. Asriel felt anxious he wondered what the significance of that vision was he repeated Noxus' words "a shining sword pierces the darkness to set one free..." Asriel frowned "I think I saw my death." Noxus shook his head "Well considering I said this will set you free it could mean anything."

Asirel looked up to Noxus "how? The only way to remove it is to die or a ritual. If Meliva is removed through a ritual I won't be the same anymore.." Noxus stroked his chin "Who is to say death has to be the end? If you recall Adelram died once and came back." Asriel looked away "I am not favoured Noxus it's a gamble." Noxus nodded "Indeed it is, think of it this way instead from my understanding you were sent to Zatos first. It could be the dark prince himself or a neverborn that spirited you away but out of everyone you got there first. So you must be important."

Asriel listened to Noxus' words he thought on them for a moment he nodded his head "Right then I have to seek out the one with the shining blade then. I can't die until then." Noxus folded his arms "Right do you have anymore questions?" Asriel went through his book "I do. at times when you are sleeping you mention a tree?" Noxus tapped his chin with his finger "Ah that. the interesting aspect of this vision the more I see it the background of where the tree is located is revealed. I will start with the first."

The darkness swirled Asriel blinked he found himself standing on grass it was a vibrant green a great tree was in front of him. Asriel looked up to the tree it bore fruit Asriel could see one looked clean and pristine, one shone with an unnatural light, the third bore tiny gnaw holes and the fourth seemed to be covered in a small amount of blood. Asriel gesture to the tree "I assume this tree is related to the gods?" Noxus nodded "Indeed. I assume this is the case considering I keep seeing this tree I assume it's important. Still what happens next will surprise you."

Asriel looked around it could see the background of the tree is still in darkness it shifted Asriel could now hear water. Pipes began to appear pouring water around the tree filling up a empty pit around the tree. The pipes look familiar to Asriel they are similar to the pipes found in the lower levels of the hive city. The issue was the water was clean. Pristine no muck no bits of waste lined the water.

Asriel looked to Noxus who stared at the tree in silence "So... I think this tree is located in a hive city. At a lower level to my surprise." said Asirel. Noxus turned his head slightly to Asriel "you are observant the issue is where this tree is located Asriel. Have you ever seen a tree growing in the lower levels of a hive city?" Asriel looked up at the tree again in a small amount of wonder for a second Asriel saw something shifting in the leaves. Asriel walked towards the tree to Noxus' surprise "What is it?" said Noxus.

Asriel squinted his eyes "I think I saw something..." Asriel tried to spot the movement again the leaves shifted he moved his eyes to the location he could see a bird with mismatched blue feathers pecking at one of the fruits. It actually picked at the fruit with the gnaw holes. The bird moved again to the fruit covered in a small amount of blood it pecked the fruit. It kept doing this to each of them but oddly enough the bird never approached the fruit that looked clean and pristine.

Asriel scratched his head "Noxus there is a bird pecking at the fruit." Noxus raised his eyebrow "I never noticed a bird in this vision before..." Noxus walked over he stared upwards "I personally wonder what is the significance of this bird." Asriel flicked through his journal "Well Lord Noxus there are times you mention a bird." Asriel pointed to a passage "Both stars slowly rise as they seek to kill the bird in the sky." Noxus sighed in annoyance "I wish visions were more literal. It seems that my sleep talking is filling out some gaps though." Noxus yawned "Right let me show you the vision that corresponds with that."

Noxus yawned again as he raised his hands, Asriel shifted slightly "Are you okay my lord?" As the scenery distorted Noxus rubbed his eyes lightly "I feel tired Asriel. I don't know why." Asriel stared at Noxus clearly concerned, Noxus noticed him staring "Enough focus on the what we are about to see." Asriel nodded, Asriel looked around to see they were in space.

Asriel looked up he could see thousands of stars what was significant was two were together covered in darkness that contrasted the bright stars. Over the two dark stars Asriel saw a familiar bird flying overhead looking downwards towards the two black stars. when Asriel gazed at the eyes of the bird he got the feeling the bird seemed annoyed or was looking down dismissively to the two black stars.

Asriel continued to stare the birds eye moved it looked directly at him. Asriel's heart skipped a beat he turned his head to Noxus slowly "I think the bird just looked at me." Noxus raised his eyebrow "Looked at you? How?" Noxus stared upwards at the bird after a moment he rubbed his arm "I can see what you mean.. I think it's staring at us." Asriel looked up towards the bird again the bird began glowing with power it released a shrill scream. Asriel covered his ears the sound was increasing it felt like his brain was going to explode. Noxus grunted in pain "This has never happened before!"

Asriel dropped to his knees "Change it! Change it quickly!" Asriel could feel his nose has started to bleed blood began dribbling down. Noxus fell to one knee "To what?!" Asriel looked towards Noxus "Anything!" Noxus moved his hand the scenery changed again this time they were in the air looking over a city. Asriel got up he wiped his nose "What was that?" Noxus rose rubbing his forehead "I think that bird tried to kill us. Now we know this is important."

Noxus yawned "Let this be the last. After that encounter with the bird I feel far more tired..." Asriel nodded he looked at the city he furrowed his brows "Lord Noxus do you know which city this is?" Noxus turned his gaze to the city "It feels familiar but I can't put my finger on it." Asriel frowned as Asriel said "It's Athor...." Noxus perked up "That backwater? It's an odd planet many of the slaves we captured had no names."

Asriel looked at the city the mural Naberius showed him replayed in his mind. Asriel frowned as he said to Naberius the truth is likely to be distorted. Still there might be some grain of truth in there. Considering Noxus vision bought him here along with Naberius going through the mural Asriel had a good guess the focus of everything that is happening in Noxus' visions is linked to Athor.

Asriel sighed "We have to somehow get back to this planet. We are in the system the issue is how we are going to get there." Noxus gave a long yawn "How about you convince Adelram to take us there?" Asriel cast his head down slightly "what could I tell him to make him go to my home planet?" Noxus shrugged "I dunno he still seems to like you figure it out." Noxus looked up Asriel wondered what Noxus was looking at so he followed suit. Asriel saw numbers appearing in the sky Asirel spoke the numbers out loud "66224493?" Asriel turned to the Noxus "Do those numbers mean anything?"

Noxus sighed he shrugged "I don't know. I assume it's important otherwise they would not appear." Asriel scratched the back of his head thinking "Is there anything else to this vision?" Noxus shook his head "No this is it." The vision bled away into darkness after a few moments. Asriel folded his arms "This discussion has been enlightening. Me losing control, the tree, a bird trying to murder us and learning my home planet is possibly important in all of this. We have a lot of work to do don't we Lord Noxus?" Asriel could see Noxus seemed to be drifting off trying to keep his eyes open.

Noxus closed his eyes he fell forward and melted into the darkness. Asriel blinked he was now in Noxus' room. Asriel looked around wondering what just happened he cast his vision upwards towards Noxus' sarcophagus. If Asriel listened carefully he could hear Noxus is sleeping.

Asriel could not help but smile, Asriel walked out of Noxus' room. He looked at his journal he can't exactly pen down his thoughts there is a possibility that Meliva would get a hint of their discussion. Especially the vision of him losing control. As Asriel said this to himself he could feel Meliva moving "So I wonder did he have anything useful to say?" Asriel tried not to get annoyed he tried to avoid questioning Meliva "He did. I can't tell you I made a promise after all."

Meliva hissed in annoyance "what could he possibly say that you would keep from me? If you endanger us..." Asriel frowned "you'll do what Meliva? What would you do?" Meliva retreated back Asriel could feel Meliva is angered slightly. Asriel sighed he made his way back to his room.

As Asriel entered his room he sat at his desk thinking, he turned to his bed wondering if he should go to sleep. After Noxus' vision he decided against it he had to remain awake until this situation can be dealt with. Asriel wanted to avoid that dark future at all costs.
Asriel knew that being possessed he required less sleep. The issue is how long it will take to work through Noxus' visions Asriel thought on using biomancy to alleviate the sleep deprivation to a degree at least. Asriel leaned back in his chair thinking of what to do next.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/06 15:35:15


Post by: shinros


Chapter 30

The sword of corruption shall pierce the prophet

Adelram sat at the piano practising, he found when the spirits rise that is when he always makes a mistake he found it frustrating. It took almost all his self control to prevent himself from smashing the piano keys in annoyance. Camila has taken note of when to stop when he makes a mistake. Camila touched his shoulder pad "Adelram you will get it right I know it." Adelram looked at Camila she has changed since they left Zatos. Her beauty compared to Isabella's and Isira was soft not forcibly moulded and changed.

These days when she plays her violin a song just for him he finds all the frustration bleeding away. The hole he is starting to feel in his heart is filled when she is here. Adelram took a breath "It's fine Camila that's enough for today. Go and rest." Camila bowed "Yes my lord."
Adelram watched her leave each of her steps light her whole form was delicate like fragile glass when she is near you want to avoid touching her due to possibly breaking that form. When Camila finally left the room Adelram sighed as the hole within his heart began consuming him again.

This has started to happen since they raided their first planet after Zatos. Adelram rose from the piano seat his mind drifted to his servants Isabella and Isira. Both try so hard for his attention it moves him and now he finds it oddly amusing. Adelram then thought of Asriel he has remained the same since Zatos. He expects nothing and wants nothing.

Adelram found it displeasing everyone is now consumed in their passions. Adelram thought on his order he gave to Asriel. Adelram spoke out loud "Asriel is loyal. He will do what I say it's his defining trait." Adelram grinned thinking of what Asriel would come up with the grin did not last long Adelram thought of a possibility that he might not be doing as he said.

Adelram felt a tinge of doubt, Adelram shook his head "He will impress me. He always does. He won't..." Adelram mused on what he was just about to say he sighed "Perhaps I shall talk to her. Lily might have something to say." Adelram walked out of his chambers. Adelram had Lily's room largely segregated from everyone else. No would dare to touch her due to fear of what he might do to them.

Adelram reached the large door he pressed a button under a small screen. Lily's face soon appeared she smiled. Adelram heard the door unlocking the door slid open as Adelram walked into the room he saw Lily moving back to her chair. The chair sat in front of her desk mirror she began brushing her hair. She stopped and turned her head slightly "Since you are here Adelram you wish to talk about something? It's why I had the chair here prepared." Lily gestured to the large chair with her comb she smiled "My grandfather is not here anymore so I will be your ear instead."

Adelram slowly walked to the chair he sat down slowly and leaned back "I recall you had my bed made for me as well the one I used on Zatos." Lily nodded "Yes can't have you sleeping on the ground or switching off half your brain it's not healthy." Lily hummed as she continued to comb her hair. Adelram had to control himself Lily's hair has grown long it was scented also. Adelram wanted to just reach and.. Lily turned Adelram found himself reaching for her hair he leaned back slowly.

Adelram coughed "Yes I wish to talk about something." Lily returned to combing her hair "What about?" Adelram tried to think of how to frame this question Adelram licked his lips "What do you think of Asriel?" Lily stopped combing her hair she placed the comb on the desk "You mean you want to know how you yourself feel about him?" Adelram frowned, Lily chuckled slightly "very well.. how do I feel about him... Asriel is reliable."

Adelram found himself holding his frown "Anything else?" Lily shook her head "no. that's it really." Adelram sighed "reliable in what way Lily?" Lily gave a small smile "If you want to know to me Asriel is the sort of person you feel would always be there no matter what. He would protect you with his up most ability." Adelram creased his brow "I don't require protection Lily." Lily nodded "Well yes since Zatos you have started to rely on people less your servants now exist for your entertainment."

Adelram mused "entertainment... I see." Lily turned towards him slightly and smiled "You simply found something better. There is nothing wrong with using something better you did it in the past." Adelram raised his eyebrow "I have done this in the past? What do you mean?" Lily tapped her chin "do you recall Amethyst? Soon as you found Asriel you fawned over him I expected Amethyst to be jealous."
Adelram was taken a back when he heard her name but now? When he heard her name he felt nothing no regret or sadness. Adelram did recall when Asriel first entered his circle Amethyst did admit she was jealous. Adelram looked into Lily's eyes she is plain with him just like the old captain. Adelram relaxed "so I expect Asriel is jealous of camila right now?"

Lily shook her head "Now here comes the difference. Asriel is simply not one to get jealous and there I think lies the problem I think you have with him." Adelram mouthed Lily's words slowly "the problem I have with him..." Lily nodded "Camila largely has it all that you want. The looks, kindness, fragile innocence and most importantly her music. I imagine Isira and Isbaella are going at lengths to capture your attention but not Asriel. He is the odd one."

Adelram rested his elbow on the arm of the chair and leaned his face on his fist "So how can I make Asriel change then?" Lily shrugged "Oddly enough he was on Zatos for 100 years he largely hasn't changed in personality I don't expect him to change now. Asriel largely in your eyes is regressing becoming static while everyone else around you is pushing forward. Even the Astartes are pushing harder than ever before."

Lily opened her hands and looked down to them "It's why my people believe in eugenics my grandfather told me in the past people would drop suitors at the bat of the eye if they found someone better or they found something wrong in their partners when they examined their genetics. What traits do they posses? Are they smart? Are they beautiful? Do they have any disabilities or weaknesses in their bloodline?" Lily turned her head slightly to Adelram "As I said you found someone better. Asriel used to be the best for what you need, but now? That is no longer the case and there is nothing wrong with that."

Hearing Lily say that made Adelram feel better he nodded "I see. I thank you for your time Lily. I have a good idea of what I will do." Adelram rose from his seat he turned as he did so Lily called out "Wait! Wait just a moment." Adelram turned to face Lily "What is it?" Adelram watched Lily opening her desk drawer she pulled out scissors she picked up the end of her hair and cut a piece off she tied it in a small ribbon. Lily then held out the lock of hair towards him.

Adelram felt his mouth drying he reached for it slowly and took it from her hand. Adelram silently turned away and left her room. Adelram looked down to the lock of hair in his hand he bought it to his nose and took a small whiff he breathed out a groan of pleasure. Adelram dropped the lock of hair in his pouch. Adelram grinned he had an idea of how to handle Asriel.

Asriel sat at his desk he has been in discussion with Noxus for a week now Meliva is none the wiser of their discussions to her irritation. She has also been pressing wondering why he has not slept in a week. Asriel rubbed his forehead slightly he could feel a small headache he imagined if he was not using biomancy he would feel the full effects of the sleep deprivation. Asriel could handle a small headache.
Still what troubled him most of all whenever they try to look at a vision correlating with the bird. The bird attacks attempting to harm them or even outright kill. Asriel had a feeling something or someone is trying to keep them from finding out the truth. Overall what this confirms to Asriel is that Noxus is seeing something important.

Asriel then heard a beep from his desk drawer he opened it to see his datapad beeping. Asriel picked it up looking at the screen he could see his lord wishes to see him. Asriel was not sure how to feel about it Noxus' vision of him impaling his blade from his neck still haunted him.

Asriel slowly rose from his chair and made his way out of his room. Asriel walked the halls making his way to his lords chamber. Asriel looked at the double doors he pushed them slowly as he entered he could see his lord drinking a glass of wine he stood in the middle of the room. Swirling the glass.

Asriel approached slowly "My lord." His lord turned he smiled "Asriel. Good.. very good. I have been thinking." Asriel fiddled his fingers together he wondered what he was going to say. Asriel watched his lord placing the glass down on one of the small tables. He walked towards him and held both his shoulders and leaned down "You know I haven't given you a reward for Zatos."

Asriel blinked rapidly under his helmet "A reward?" Adelram nodded "Indeed. You are not base like the other slaves and serfs on the ship. I had to think carefully." His lord grinned "we shall raid Athor." Asriel felt his heart skipping a beat he wondered of the odds of this happening. His lord held his grin "I can see you are excited..." His lord leaned back and stood upright "I will have Isira making moves to corrupt people on the lower levels and Isbaella on the higher levels."

Asriel nodded slowly, his master frowned "You are no longer happy Asriel?" Asriel shook his head quickly "No! I am just surprised! That it..." His lord stroked his chin "I see.. anyway when Isira and Isabella have done their work we will attack the upper levels. Jedrick will handle the lower. You will be with me Asriel We will torture, maim and kill anyone who gets in our way. It will be enjoyable!"

Asriel felt cold he gulped Asirel felt if he said yes it would be the death of Lord Adelram. His master who gave him everything he has now.

Asriel could see his lord seemed to be growing upset "You don't like my plan Asriel?" A tinge of anger began lining his features "After I thought of this for you?" Asriel took a breath "I have a request my lord." His master raised his eyebrow "A request? What is it?" Asriel spoke slowly "I wish to join Isira on the lower levels."

Asriel could see he is surprised with his request his lord said "interesting... you never requested you always asked me if I need something. Very well." Asriel gave a small bow "I thank you my lord."

His lord folded his arms "we will begin approaching the planet soon. We will remain out of scanner range I will have Lily pilot a thunderhawk and have the three of you taken to the planet. Lily has the skills to avoid any escorts or ships. You will be landed near a exposed pipe outside of the hive city. It leads into the lower level it's how we had Isira infiltrate the hive city in the past. Considering how such pipes are never fixed it should still be there."

Asriel nodded "Should I prepare to leave now?" His lord smiled "Yes you should prepare. we will reach our destination in a few hours. You are dismissed Asriel."

Asriel bowed again and turned to leave he clenched his fist he swore to himself that his lord will survive.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/06 15:45:47


Post by: lliu


If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/06 16:07:58


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.


I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/06 18:13:57


Post by: lliu


 shinros wrote:
lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.


I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.
The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/06 20:03:36


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
 shinros wrote:
lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.


I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.
The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.

Interesting since in 40k people change fate all the time but the outcome is not always good. Or they get something they dont expect. Hence why people follow tzeentch or the eldar who seek to manipulate destiny. Thank you for this post certain elements of the story will change now.

I got a few good ideas.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/07 04:33:13


Post by: Dayknight


lliu wrote:
 shinros wrote:
lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.


I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.
The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.



I would argue for a different interpretation. I clearly remember him speaking of seeing time in the 4th dimension as a series of valleys and mountains and the nexus point of decisions. I'd further argue against it with the third book. as leto 2 comments that his father knew what to do but left it up to his son to do it


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/07 04:59:20


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:
lliu wrote:
 shinros wrote:
lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.


I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.
The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.



I would argue for a different interpretation. I clearly remember him speaking of seeing time in the 4th dimension as a series of valleys and mountains and the nexus point of decisions. I'd further argue against it with the third book. as leto 2 comments that his father knew what to do but left it up to his son to do it


Man this book sounds mighty interesting and thanks for the info! The story is going to be a bit more dark now. Perhaps messing with timelines and fate carries heavy consequences.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/07 05:39:36


Post by: shinros


Chapter 31

The people of darkness rise as they are stained crimson red

Asriel was in his room putting together his things he strapped a utility belt around his waist. Asriel then wrapped his cloak around his shoulders Asriel looked at his helmet resting on the desk unfortunately he could not take it with him. Asriel touched it lightly with two fingers thinking of him and how he would react to raiding their old home. Asriel smiled "he would most likely be oever the moon..."
Asriel wanted to take the helmet with him but he had no idea how normal people would react to a skull helmet and with his cloak he can easily make it appear as a simple cloak or scarf.

Asriel readied himself the tree is likely to be on the lower levels of Athor and the wielder of the shining sword is also there. The added bonus is that he will be far away from his lord if he could solve the possession situation before the actual raid comes upon the world would be even better.

Asriel sheathed a few knives into his belt and a pistol after that he left his room. He walked to the docking bay area he saw someone else walking towards the docking bay it was Isabella. Asriel looked Isbaella up and down she wore a black dress her face looked lightly oiled and her hair was combed back she smiled "how interesting.." Asriel raised his eyebrow "What is?" Isabella gently touched his cheek "what are you planning? Isira was livid that you wished to go with her."

Asriel pushed away Isabella's hand "I have my reasons Lady Isabella." Isabella gave him a coy smile "so.. Athor I hear that is your home." Asriel frowned "It was my home" Isabella chuckled "not fond of it I take it? I can see why when Lord Adelram told me we are going there I decided to do some background checks on the planet." When Isabella said that it drew Asriel's interest the only thing he knew of his home is the undercity and the disdain the people on upper levels had for them.

Isabella tapped her cheek "stories of numbered men and women smuggling themselves up to the middle layer seeking a better life. They of course become poor and go straight to begging. Some are picked up by nobles who are kind and virtuous they are taken to their mansions to live a wonderful life." Asriel could not help but cringe at that "I assume they are never seen again?" Isabella nodded "Indeed. The nobles on Athor are quite.. shall we say dirty?"

Asriel scoffed slightly "so they are like you then?" Isabella moved closed to him "why are you being that way? You were such a gentleman when you met me..." Asriel sighed he spoke firmly "enough I am not interested." Isabella pouted and moved back to her old position "I wonder Asriel are you even interest-" Asriel scowled as he cut her off "you know it gets annoying when people call me boring or question me on that. I tell you what how would you feel after being violated and "handled" by neverborn? Oh yes you haven't really seen one yet have you? Keep your opinions to yourself."

Isabella fell silent, but Asriel knows she would not relent still looking at Isabella he knows nobles would jump at the chance to make her their wife or mistress. Hence why time and time again she easily infiltrates the nobility twisting them inside out. Honestly Asriel could not help by smile slightly the nobles of Athor would get what they deserve.

The hall eventually ended and it lead into the docking bay area Asriel looked up to the thunderhawk. Isira was there talking with his lord one thing that stood out is that his lord is holding a small black box. Asriel shifted his gaze to Isira he could see Isira is clearly upset.

As Asriel walked over with Isabella, Isira flicked her head in his direction Asriel noted her skin was now milky white Asriel assumed Isira made moves to change it for this task. Isira hissed at Asriel "what are you playing at Asriel?!" Asriel ignored Isira's whining "My lord I am ready to leave." His lord nodded he turned towards Isira "Isira enough. Asriel is coming with you or do you wish to displease me?" Isira voice died she looked away "No.."

Asriel watched his lord gesture to the ramp of the thunderhawk "Lily is waiting to take off. How you bring corruption to the lower and upper levels is up to you. Now before you go I have something for the three of you." Asriel watched his lord open the small black box there were three sliver bracelets with an embedded pink gem. As his lord handed them out he said "The bracelet has three functions, the first will allow me to contact you and vice versa. The gem will glow when I want to contact you. Simply press your finger on the gem for a few seconds and my image will appear and if you wish to contact me? Say these keywords while pressing your finger on the gem bel'nar." Isira nodded "is contacting you obvious? Any bright lights? Eldritch fire?"

Asriel looked at the bracelet and wondered the same thing they have to be careful when they use it since it's made with sorcery. Asriel could see his master nodding "Yes it's quite... showy so be carefully where you use it. Now the second function? It allows me to use your five senses with a certain keyword. Just say these words pho'nur and it should activate. Now the third? It will notify me if you die. So I can plan accordingly if such an event occurs."

Isira held her gaze to the bracelet as she put it on "we won't die. we won't fail my lord." Asriel watched his lord nod "see that you don't." Asriel silently placed his bracelet on for some reason he found it hard to put it on. What If confronting the person who wields the shining blade leads to his death? What would his lord think? How would he feel? Asriel closed his eyes as he forced the bracelet on. He had to focus his lord's life is far more important.

Asriel looked at Isabella she placed the bracelet on her wrist but she seemed to also admire the jewerly work upon it.

Asriel noted that as his lord walked away with a swish of his black robe he left without another word coming from his lips Asriel watched as he vanished into the darkness of the hall. Still another thought played across Asriel's mind he wished he could talk with Noxus a bit more but at least he had some information to go on. Asriel looked down to his journal he had to change the cover to something less suspicious it's clear that people would react badly to the normal cover. Even though he has not penned anything so far Asriel has committed most of their discussions to memory. Asriel decided that he will try to spot anything that corresponds to one of the passages written in his journal.

Asriel heard Isabella and Isira walking up the bay breaking his concentration. Asriel readied himself as he did so Meliva spoke "I don't know what you are planning you had the perfect opportunity to join our master in bringing suffering to the populace yet you chose this." Asriel ignored her to Meliva's annoyance "fine ignore me. I am only trying to seek what is best for us.." Asriel ignored Meliva again he focused on the task at hand as he walked onto the thunderhawk.

Looking around Asirel could see Isira seated clearly annoyed she looked up to him "I will handle the work. You will follow me. Do you understand? I won't have you endangering the task given to us." Asriel sighed "very well. I will follow your lead." Isira eyed him carefully "good."

Asriel heard the ramp being retracted and bay door closing Lily called out "We are leaving! Everyone get ready!" Asriel seated himself so did Isabella. Asriel felt the thunderhawk moving smoothly it was moving too smooth for Asriel's liking. Asriel called out "Is everything okay Lily?!" Lily hissed "I am concentrating! Not now!"

Asriel fell quiet considering they had to pass escort ships and other larger variants Asriel imagined the ride to be far more rocky or perhaps Lily is just that good. Asriel sat in his seat for what felt like an age eventually he felt the thunderhawk landing. Lily walked into the seating area and wiped her brow "I did my part now it's your turn."

Lily pressed a button on the side near the bay area the door opened revealing a cold hard plain of dead grass. The ramp came out and dug itself into the ground. Asriel rose from his seat and nodded to Lily "don't worry we will complete our task." Asriel exited the thunderhawk he looked around he has never seen the outside of the hive city. Due to the pollution the soil is hard and the grass is dead but he felt odd.
Asriel could not understand what emotion he was feeling right now it was not happiness since he only had bad memories of his old home. Asriel tried to place words to what he was feeling was it sadness? Anger? Or maybe even regret? Asriel shook his head he cursed he knew that it can't be regret what did he have to regret? His new home is better. His new family is better. Asriel held his chest "the people of this planet will suffer and die. That is what I want." Asriel said under his breath. As Asriel said these words to himself he felt the strange emotion dissipating.

Asriel heard Isira and Isabella stepping down the ramp Asriel turned. Isira had a smug smile "how do you feel being home after all these years?" Asriel shrugged "this place is not my home anymore. We are here to ruin this place and I will enjoy when we do so."

Isira gestured to a pipe unlike the others there is no liquid or pollution coming out of it "That pipe leads to the lower levels. There are many lifts in the lower level that are forgotten and unused we will take one to the undercity." Isira shifted her gaze to Isabella "you will ride the lift for a single level more than us it will take you to the middle lair." Isabella gave Isira a small smile, Asriel could see it annoyed Isira greatly.
As Isira was about to say something Lily stepped out onto the ramp "Well I am leaving now I assume all of you know what you are doing?" Isira turned annoyed "Yes now let us get to work!" Lily shrugged and entered the thunderhawk the ramp retracted and the bay door closed the thunderhawk lifted off kicking up dust.

Asriel watched the thunderhawk leave he took a deep breath he wondered where this path will lead and whether it will lead to the conclusion he wanted. Asriel hoped it will end well it has to. Asriel turned and walked towards the pipe leading into darkness he turned his head to Isira and Isabella "shall we go?"


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/07 05:43:44


Post by: shinros


Chapter 32

The sword shall be thrown into a arena of darkness

As Asriel moved through the pipe it had a strange smell that tingled his nose Asriel then wondered if anything has changed on his planet. Asriel thought about it the time when the planet was attacked more than anything what is likely happened is that the imperium may have come down harder on the populace especially those who live in the undercity.

Asriel could not help but give a small chuckle the reason chaos thrives and exists is because of how the imperium treats it's populace and when something does happen they push harder. It then makes people consider the other hell might be preferable to the one they are living in now. It's an eternal cycle of suffering and hate.

Asriel looked forward he could see a low light at the end of the tunnel it seems they reached where they needed to go. As Asriel reached the end of the pipe there was a small jump to the ground. Asriel hopped down Isira then followed suit. Asriel could see she was wearing boots with her robe.

Asriel looked up to see Isabella staring down Asriel said "What's the matter? Jump!" Isabella looked around "isn't there a safer way to get down?" Asriel sighed he opened up his arms "fine I will catch you just hurry up and jump." Isabella nodded she jumped Asriel caught her he held Isabella in his arms she smiled "such a gentlemen." Asriel frowned he felt a great need to simply drop her on the ground.
Asriel decided other wise he simply placed Isabella on her feet, Isabella brushed her black dress "So where are we going?" Asriel looked around there are tons of open pipes pouring out dirty water and pollution Asriel guessed that they are most likely on the lower level. Asriel watched Isira point in a direction "there are many unused lifts of various sizes in the lower level we will take one to the undercity. As I said before Isabella you will take the lift for one more level."

Isabella nodded "very well lead the way." Isira began to walk in the direction she pointed Asriel followed along with Isabella. Asriel looked around he could see destitute houses people walking by heads down to whatever business they have to attend to. In the corners of the allyways he could see mutants hiding or begging. Asriel wondered how the people here dealt with living day by day.

This place just from walking around is far worse than the undercity. Still the odd thing is as they walked nobody payed them any mind. Isira then cut into a ally way Isabella frowned and lifted up her skirt slightly "I wish to leave this place quickly.." Isira scowled "stop complaining!" For once Asriel agreed with Isira as they walked down the ally way three men blocked the way. They held blades.

The largest of them walked forward "hello pretty ladies.. how about you come with us?" Asriel sighed he walked to the front the large man raised his eyebrow "What? You want to get in our way li-" With a swift motion Asriel threw three blades all landing in the foreheads of the assailants. They crumpled to the ground with a thud the grime splashing slightly as they hit the ground.

Asriel walked over and pulled the blades out he cleaned them and sheathed them into his belt. Isira folded her arms "I could of handled that." Asriel turned "with sorcery? We don't know who is watching at the moment." Isira frowned "It would not be obvious Asriel." Asriel shook his head in disagreement "there are still risks." Isira shrugged "we are in the lower city. Tell me who would know?"

Asriel folded his arms "these days most planets have inquisitors that watch carefully for even a hint of change or abnormality. When we work tread carefully."

Isira rolled her eyes "anyway let's get to the lift we are wasting time arguing." Isira walked past Asriel he could feel the annoyance bleeding off her. Asriel looked at the dead men for a moment he then followed Isira's lead.

After walking for a few minutes they eventually reached an old lift. Isira pressed a few buttons at the panel it lit up and she smiled "good it still seems to be working." Isira pressed another button and the doors opened. Isira gestured "let's go."

Asriel watched Isira and Isabella step onto the lift. As Asriel walked on he felt slightly anxious as the doors closed and the lift started to move. Asriel guessed it's the fact he is returning to the undercity out of the people he knew he is the only one left alive. Isabella touched his shoulder "is something wrong Asriel?" Asriel moved away "I am fine."

The lift ground to a halt the doors opened Isira walked out "Asriel this is our stop." Asriel walked out of the lift the smell of his old home filled his nostrils and then he felt a strange need. The need to tear all of it down the need to drag everyone into corruption. The emotion felt pleasant it felt right. Asriel nodded he turned to Isabella "I assume you know what you are doing?" Isabella grinned "don't worry about me I will be fine." The lift doors closed and began moving upwards again.

Asriel turned and looked forward there was a light at the end of the ally way. Isira gestured "time to get moving." Asriel and Isira walked out of the ally way. When they exited Asriel looked around he saw people walking about going on their business. Stalls of merchants shouting to sell their goods and finally Asriel looked up the grey sky. It is still the same as he remembered it.

Isira looked at him "so how do you feel? I recall for you it's been a long time." Asriel looked down he spoke almost in a whisper "I want to tear it all down." Isira smirked "you are that committed? very well that is what we shall do. First I will like to see if my contacts are still about." Asriel nodded "they might still be around when the great rift spread across the galaxy time shifted for many planets. Honestly it might only be a few years since the attack."

Isira looked around "right then, you will meet me in the plaza of the undercity in two hours." Asriel raised his eyebrow "why should we not do this together?" Isira shook her head "some of my contacts get angsty if they see someone they don't recognise. So go do something useful scout the area or even reminiscence on your home and on how much you want to tear down your home."

Isira walked away until she vanished into the crowd. Asriel looked around he began thinking of where should he go. Asriel then thought of a few places of signficance to him "I shall go to those places then.." Asriel began walking down the road as his old memories came flooding back.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/07 12:15:54


Post by: lliu


 Dayknight wrote:
lliu wrote:
 shinros wrote:
lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.


I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.
The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.



I would argue for a different interpretation. I clearly remember him speaking of seeing time in the 4th dimension as a series of valleys and mountains and the nexus point of decisions. I'd further argue against it with the third book. as leto 2 comments that his father knew what to do but left it up to his son to do it


I mean the second book isn’t it all about how he tries really hard to change history but then realizes every one of his changes still led to the jihad, so he stopped caring and became suicidal? I mean the pressure of it did cause him to walk into the desert. Also, leto 2 also said that Paul was too fearful of the possIble future, but he wasn’t, and that’s why he became god emperor? Idk but at least that was what I interperated it as.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/08 01:48:14


Post by: shinros


Chapter 33

the sword shall cut the head of the deceiver's champion

Asriel traced his steps the same road he always took to work. Asriel wondered if his work place is still standing he wondered if people are still funnelled in to slave away to fuel the imperium war machine. Eventually Asriel reached it his old work place the ammo factory where he spent majority of his youth.

Asriel looked up, the building is still in use smog bellowed out of the chimney. Asriel stood on the side of the road simply starting at it. Asriel cast his head down he smirked "I wonder how people stand it. I could never go back to that.." Asriel waited for a few minutes, workers began leaving the factory heads cast downwards.

Asriel watched them leave he almost exactly what they are thinking of. They must be wondering how are they going to meet end's meet. They might be in debt or they wonder how they are going to feed their families. This cycle will continue until their death it will be never ending and never changing. Every single day your mind filled with worries on how you will get to the next. Their lives will not be filled with a single happy moment and because the imperium wishes it that way they may never know the delights they could enjoy or perhaps the hidden talents they might even possess.

Asriel looked at the workers faces all of various skin tones, builds and age. Asriel then thought on the mural everyone who bare's a number is connected to the heretical tribes of the past. Asriel frowned "penance.. I spit on it. Which ever primarch allowed this I curse their name." Asriel turned away from his old work place he has another place he wishes to visit.

Asriel walked the streets heading to a specific location as Asriel walked he saw children running around playing while their parents watched from a distance. A child crashed in to him clearly not watching where they are going. The child tumbled to the ground with a thud "Ouch! Ow ow!" The child yelped. Asriel looked at the child he reached out his hand "Are you okay? My apologies."

The child looked up Asriel could see the child is a boy the boy nodded "I am fine." The boy got up and brushed his clothes. A woman came running over clearly worried "2341! Are you okay?!" Asriel could see it's the mother she wore a brown robe she bent down as she wiped away the dust from her son's clothes.

The mother rose and bowed her head to Asriel she pushed her son's head down "I am sorry. My boy was not looking where he was going." Asriel raised his hands "It's okay. It's just an accident. Is your son okay?" The woman rose "he is fine just a small scrape."

The woman began staring at Asriel she placed her finger to her lips "I don't recall seeing someone like you here before. Are you an off worlder?" Asriel tried not to make a suspicious expression he simply nodded "Yes. I am a pilgrim seeking to understand this world and visit the temples and churches of this planet" The woman gave a weak smile "If that is the case I recommend the higher levels. Not much to learn here." Asriel shook his head "you can learn and experience things even in the lowest of places."

Asriel wondered what he should say next the normal thing to do would be to introduce himself but he was not exactly sure how the woman would react if he asked such a thing. Asriel thought of how he should frame his question. Asriel took a small breath "may I ask something?" The woman nodded "what is it?"

Asriel felt his mouth drying slightly "there is something peculiar about this planet everyone from the mid level upwards have names. Yet everyone in the undercity..." Asriel watched the woman look away in sadness she gave a sad smile "well... you heard right. Everyone here have numbers instead of names."

Asriel frowned he asked "why is that the case? Almost all the worlds I have been to I have never seen such a thing." Asriel could see the woman is holding her sad smile Asriel said "Apologies if I asked something inappropriate." Asriel knew most don't want to talk about it but he wanted to understand truly are people truly willing to live like this? He wondered how would people in the undercity react if they knew of the mural?

The woman shook her head "It's fine we rarely get visitors here I should be thankful that a pilgrim at least wishes to understand us." The woman looked down to her child Asriel repeated the boys number in his head 2341. Asriel could see looking at the woman's face referring to her boy as a number everyday is destroying her inside.

The woman gave a small bow "anyway we must be going." Asriel nodded "thank you for your time. I appreciate the time you took to talk with me.." Asriel trailed off he wanted to know her number. Asriel wanted to see her reaction saying it out loud.

The woman cast her eyes down slightly "It's 5239. I also thank you for your time sir. Before you leave may I ask something?" Asriel nodded "Go ahead." The woman looked directly into his eyes "sir may I ask. Do you have a name?" Asriel nodded again "Indeed I do. Do you wish to know?"

The woman shook her head "no.. it's alright. I just wanted to say you are fortunate to have one." The woman turned away with her child as they walked back to the group of children. Asriel watched the boy join the children again playing like nothing happened. Asirel wondered if he understood the significance of their conversation. If the boy ever wondered why his name is a set of numbers.

Asriel shook his head slowly he felt a small measure of sadness just a speck. The reason why the woman did not ask for his name is because her son would most likely question why his name is different.

Asriel stood for a moment watching if he was not captured by Silas during that time he would be like everyone else. Asriel held his hands together thinking his ears began to tickle slightly +you are indeed fortunate blood of my blood. Flesh of my flesh...+ Asriel flicked around quickly his eyes scanned the streets.

Asriel touched his ears the tickling sensation vanished the voice had no distinction of gender save that it sounded... old. Asriel questioned Meliva his heart beating rapidly "Did you say something?" Meliva shifted within Asriel's chest "No. Why are you asking?" Asriel looked around again he could only see people walking by on the streets. He could not detect anything either.

Meliva spoke firmly "perhaps not sleeping is taking it's toll?" Asriel ignored Meliva he walked down the street. Asriel tapped both his cheeks with both hands trying to refocus. Asriel nodded "right I was going to visit that place."

Asriel kept walking he made a turn into an ally way and walked to a dead end. Asriel touched the wall he spoke in a whisper "I am alive and you are dead..." Asriel began thinking of them what sort of choices they had to make. Why they did what they did in the end Asriel came to one conclusion all of them had one thing in common. This planet made them this way.

To serve a penance they had nothing to do with. Asriel turned one of his nails into a talon and bought it down the wall leaving a small line. Asriel hissed "all of you had no choice didn't you?" Asriel removed his finger from the wall.

Meliva sighed in annoyance "are you done? watching you brood is boring to watch." Asriel frowned "deal with it. It's not like Zatos where we largely killed how we wished we are here for a purpose and even then those murders in the past were done to improve myself." Asriel walked out of the alleyway Meliva did not protest further.

Asriel looked around and nodded "one more stop." As Asriel walked the place he was about to visit it now disgusted him. What made it even more disgusting is how popular going to those places are for many people in the undercity. Asriel made his way to a church a familiar one at that. Asriel looked up to the building he could not help but laugh at the irony. Everyone in the undercity pray to people who most likely put them in the situation they are currently in.

All the misery, the heartbreak they give thanks to the people who made it this way. Asriel could see people at the steps praying he could just about make out the prayer "I pray to you holy god-emperor please let my naming day come soon..."

Asriel watched them mouth the names of the primarchs after the prayer was done. Asriel felt an intense need to drag them from their knees. To force them to stand to shout at them that they are the source of their current situation.

Asriel wondered what their ancestors in the mural would think of them. What the heretical tribes would think to see their descendants kneeling in the dirt praying to the people who punished them. Asriel clenched his teeth, Asriel then felt his ears tingling again +they are weak and useless... all need bled out.. all want removed...+

Asriel in reaction turned his head rapidly Asriel hissed under his breath "Meliva are you messing with me? What are you playing at?" Asriel could tell Meliva is becoming angered "Enough! I am not doing anything! What ever you are hearing is not me!" Asriel held his mind slightly when Meliva shouted it was like a spike within his mind.

Asriel furrowed his brows "if it was not you.. who is it?" Meliva scowled "As I said before whatever you are hearing is not me. Now leave me." Asriel removed his hand from his head. Asriel looked at the church one more time he clenched his fist as he walked away.

Asriel made his way to the plaza this is where the greatest amount of merchants are located in the undercity all of them plying their trade. Asriel waited by the fountain the water was grimy due to all the pollution. Through the crowd he saw Isira walking towards him he folded his arms "so how did it go?"

Isira grinned "many of them are still in place to my surprise. You were right it actually has not been that long since the attack." Asriel stroked his chin "did your contacts actually say how long it has been?" Isira nodded "yes. It's only been 7 years."

Asriel raised his eyebrow "I am surprised your contacts stuck around for that long." Isira gave Asriel a coy smile "They are devoted to me. They pretty much fell to my feet when they saw me." Asriel scratched his head "So how are we handling this then?"

Asriel tapped her cheek with one finger "well.. one of my contacts put me in contact with a gang that's a bit down on their luck. We will join them and work through them." Asriel frowned "I assume I will be murdering for them I take it?" Isira smiled and nodded "of course that is what you will be doing."

Asriel sighed "right so where will we be meeting this gang then?" Isira pointed "we will go to a certain bar." Asriel narrowed his eyes "I take it that it's Jimmy's bar?" Isira looked at him in surprise "so you know him?" Asriel shook his head "never been there in the past I wanted to avoid gangs it was bad for your health getting involved with them." Asriel also knew that he was a part of Isira's cult.

If anyone could get general information on the events of the undercity it would be him considering Jimmy's bar is normally frequented by gangs. Gangs speak a lot when drunk or under pressure. Asriel gestured "Well.. why don't you lead the way then?" Isira flourished her hair slightly "very well. follow me."

Asriel followed Isira as they made their way to the bar he could tell that the amount of normal folk on the streets dwindled. They were entering gang territory now, Asriel decided to somewhat display his knives and gun. Gangs were more likely to leave you be if you are armed they prefer softer targets to mug in his experience.

Isira walked how she always did without a care of what's going on around her Asriel wondered if he was not here would the gangs attack her. If they do so Asriel knew it would be the death of the gang members who attempt such a thing. They eventually came to a large building with a glowing sign. Asriel mouthed the name slowly "The drowning flagon..."

Isira turned her head slightly "concentrate Asriel!" Asriel looked down and shrugged "are we going in?" Isira gestured "you first." Asriel frowned "may I ask why?" Isira folded her arms "you look more threatening. Now go in first." Asriel sighed in annoyance he walked to the doors of the bar and entered.

A strong smell of beer hit his nose silence came to the bar as everyone looked at him. Isira then entered and stood behind him. A man who Asriel assumed to be a gang member got up and approached him. He was bald with olive skin and a large scar lining his face. He also had a large frame.

Asriel knew that the were sizing him up hence why Isira asked him to enter first of course the issue is that he does not look that intimidating nor does he have a large frame or the scars to show that he has fought. Everyone in the bar thinks he is soft meat to be played with.
The gang member stood in front of Asriel "name is Big Ben. I don't like your face little man." Asriel shrugged "deal with it. I don't have time to entertain idiots." The table Big Ben came from one of his follow gang members called out "kill the idiot Ben so we can get back to drinking!"

Asriel from the corner of his eye could see Jimmy standing at his work area cleaning a glass clearly disinterested. Asriel could see that people dying here is the norm. Asriel pulled out his pen from his belt. Asriel pressed the button a few times Big Ben laughed "What are you going to do with that?"

Asriel twisted the pen to the side and slammed it into Big Ben's neck, Big Ben screamed he began struggling trying to push Asriel away. Asriel grabbed Big ben and slammed him down on a nearby table he removed his pen and with a swift motion stabbed deep into his ear and twisted. Asriel slowly removed his pen it was covered in blood. Asriel removed a piece of cloth from his belt and wiped the blood off. He threw the cloth on top of Big Ben when he was done. After a moment Big Ben tumbled off the table to the ground the cloth lying on the ground beside him.

Asriel could feel Meliva coiling with pleasure and excitement. Asriel watched the gang members who sat at Big Ben's table rising getting ready to fight. Asriel pressed the button on his pen a few more times to check if it still worked he placed it back in his belt. Asriel frowned at the gang members "I killed your biggest man with a pen. Imagine what I could do with a knife or a gun? So how about you just sit down and enjoy your drinks?"

The gang members looked at each other, Asriel could see a small amount of sweat dribbling down their brows. They all slowly sat down and got back to drinking.

Asriel could feel Isira staring is at him, Asriel turned his head slightly "what is it?" Isira looked slightly surprised "so the pencil story is true? Interesting. I thought everyone was lying at the compound." Isira walked over the corpse and towards a group of people sitting at a large table they all wore black trench coats. Some wore gas masks. As Asirel saw this his heart skipped a beat.

Asriel whispered under his breath "so it begins."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/08 09:25:38


Post by: shinros


Chapter 34

The bird shrieks as the marionettes dance

Asriel walked over to the table and sat down with Isira. All the gang members stared at each other and then back to Asriel. Isira grinned "I told you. He has the skills necessary to take care of your enemies. Now if I may introduce myself my name is Ashley." Asriel frowned as Isira introduced herself it is now clear to him why she had him enter the bar first.

Asriel looked around the table trying to spot the leader at the other end of the table in the middle there was a person wearing a gas mask with a small sliver skull on the forehead. They chuckled "well.. it seems he is everything that your contact promised to us. I assume introductions are in order?" The gang member tapped their chest with their hand "You can call me Sam."

Sam folded his arms "Sam of the Dead Skulls." Sam stared at Asriel "do you have a name?" Asriel nodded "my name is George." Asriel was not about to give his real name and given that the name is quite.. plain he hoped it would provide the reaction he wants. Sam leaned back in his chair "really? are you from here? Where did you learn to fight like that? Asriel shrugged "lived hand to mouth everyday from the lower levels to the undercity I had to learn to fight." As Sam folded his arms he tapped his finger on his arm "still killing Big Ben got you in." Sam looked to Isira "Ashley is also providing her contacts to us so we can get some trade in." Asriel turned his head to Isira slightly and then back to Sam "I see. So is there anything you want me to do? To formally situate myself into the gang? I am eager to get started."

Sam nodded approvingly "good of you to say that George. I do have something I want you to do." Sam leaned forward "I want you to take two of my people here." Sam pointed at two people on the table "This is Lizzy and Luke. I want the three of you to deal with a few people who think to move on our turf. It's bad for business." Sam began to describe the people he wanted killed "they all wear blue scarfs and a white shirt each of them have a tattoo of a key on their lower arms." Asriel nodded "I see I will keep an eye out."

Asriel looked to the two people he would be going out with as Sam mentioned the job both were white like sheets. Luke had shaggy blone hair, his skin was olive he also had brown eyes. Asriel could see he looked young. Younger than he himself appears. Luke spoke his voice stammering slightly "er are you sure boss? Just the three of us?" Lizzy interjected agreeing with Luke "Three people is quite a low number boss." Asriel looked at Lizzy she had short hair, Lizzy's skin tone was the same as Luke's her distinguishing feature is that she had freckles. Sam scowled in annoyance "Yes! Just the three of you now if you don't complete the job don't bother coming back." Luke gulped, Lizzy simply sighed. Asriel nodded "just give me the location and I will deal with it." Sam chuckled "So confident. Interesting.." Sam placed a small map on the table he pointed "they normally ply their trade here. I want them gone."

Asriel looked at the location Asriel noted that it's not actually too far from here, Asriel looked up "Is there any other specifics of how you want them to be killed? To send a message?" Sam looked to Isira "Has your man ran with gangs before? I like him!" Isira smirked "George has been around the block a few times." Sam shrugged "there are no specifics as I said I just want them gone." Asriel nodded "very well." Asriel rose from the table Luke rapidly looked to Sam and then Asriel "we are doing this now? Like now?" Sam sighed "Yes you idiot! Now get going!" Lizzy rose silently it took a few moments for Luke to leave his seat.

Asriel simply walked out of the bar not waiting a moment for his compatriots. As he left the bar Lizzy and Luke were behind him. Asriel turned "So how often have you killed people?" Luke gulped "never." Lizzy looked away slightly "I have killed only three people." Asriel frowned so Sam stuck him with green people he guessed this is another test. Asriel smiled "Just leave it to me." Luke nodded "okay." Lizzy folded her arms "you are rather confident. The way you killed Big Ben should have people talking for a week." Asriel nodded "I am confident. If you are not confident when you are killing someone you will make mistakes."

Lizzy raised her eyebrow "A lesson then?" Asriel nodded again "Yes." Asriel turned away "we should get going." Asriel began walking to the area pointed out by Sam he could hear Lizzy and Luke's footsteps behind him. Asriel mused that it is actually a good that he got green people that way he can twist them. Isira is most likely going to focus on corrupting Sam.

Luke came forward walking side by side with Asriel he scratched the back of his head "So.. why did you join?" Asriel turned his head to Luke "why? I have nothing else. I tire of working in the factories and when my parents died a few years ago I had to learn how to survive." Luke gave a sad smile "I get it. My ma and Pa died a few months ago. I also hated being a number being pushed around.. and looked down upon. Arbites mocking me and the fact I am number. Still since joining Sam I have a name. I am no longer 0339 my name is Luke." Luke nodded in satisfaction. Asriel grinned he thought to himself that Luke is still somewhat innocent, Asriel wondered how he will turn out once it takes it away. Lizzy came forward "I still don't know how we are going to handle this job." Asriel shook his head "remember what I said? Have confidence?" Lizzy sighed "easy for you to say. You are already strong." Asriel raised his eyebrow "So I assume you joined Sam's gang to become strong I take it?" Lizzy looked away quickly "n-no. I did not join for that reason!" Asriel gave a sad smile "I get it. I know what it's like to be weak I hated it." Lizzy turned her head back "R-really? someone like you was weak?" Asriel nodded "Yes and now I am strong but it takes work to get there."

Asriel kept talking with them trying to find out more about Luke and Lizzy. Luke idealised the freedom of gangs he had a true sense of naivety about the undercity. Lizzy was more levelled headed but she had something to prove Asriel wondered if such a quirk would make her do something rash down the line.

Asriel looked down the street in the corner he could see a group of people in the location Sam pointed out and they matched the description. Asriel pulled out his pistol he removed the ammunition and counted "7 huh..." Asriel looked up and counted the number of people "5 people to kill.." Asriel placed the ammunition back into the pistol. Asriel simply walked down the street towards them, Luke looked like he was growing to throw up and Lizzy was clearly nervous. Asriel stopped a few paces from the group the one Asriel assumed to be the leader looked up "Oh hey look it seems Sam sent some people to clear us off!" He snickered he stood up right the other gang members stood tall with the leader "Name is Bob the ring leader. Bob the key master."

Bob's followers all nodded one shouted "Clear off before we you kill you!" Bob held his hand up "Now no-" Asriel did not let him finish Asriel raised his pistol and fired into the heads of each of Bob's followers they all crumpled to the ground. Bob looked around "By the emp-" Asriel lowered his pistol and shot both of Bob's knee caps. Bob fell to the ground screaming "You bastard! I will kill you!" Lizzy blinked she looked to Asriel and the dead gang members "what just happened? I missed it." Luke scratched his head "I did not see it either."

Bob tried to reach for his belt to pull out his pistol Asriel shot him in the arm. Bob Squealed "Dammit! Alright! Alright! We will leave! Don't kill me!" Asriel gave a small sigh of pleasure, he smiled as he said to himself "it's been a long time since I last did this." Asriel reloaded his gun. Asriel was about to pull the trigger he stopped and turned to Luke "How about you kill him?" Luke looked around "Er okay.." Luke came forward, Asriel handed out his pistol "Use mine." Luke grabbed Asriel's pistol he turned it slightly and pointed it slanted at Bob with one hand "This i- is our turf scum!" Luke's hand was shaking as he held the gun. Asriel shook his head in annoyance as he watched Luke "You don't hold a gun that way."

Asriel adjusted Luke's hands "There. Now your aim won't divert and you got a firm grip." Luke nodded Asriel could see he was still nervous he had trouble pulling the trigger. Asriel smiled "Luke you are nervous. I was as well let me tell you that you will feel better after you kill him. Bob is scared is because you now have power over his life just pull the trigger and snatch it away. I bet you never had power over people.. It's the reason why you joined the gang yes?" Luke looked to Asriel in confusion "I-" Asriel nodded "Trust me you will feel better once you do it. Remember what I said before?" Luke nodded slowly "kill with confidence."

Asriel grinned "Indeed. So kill him." Luke turned to Bob who was not trying to slowly drag himself away. Luke fired Asriel's pistol into Bob's body he kept firing until he unloaded the magazine clip. Lizzy held Luke's shoulder "He is dead Luke you can stop." Luke stopped pressing the trigger panting slightly.

Asriel reached out his hand "My pistol Luke?" It took a moment for Luke to respond "Oh yes. sorry.." Luke handed the pistol back. Asriel could not help but frown slightly that Luke used all the ammunition. Asriel reloaded his gun and holstered it. Asriel nodded in satisfaction "well.. that's the job complete isn't it?" Luke rubbed his shoulder "yeah.. it is." Lizzy folded her arms "well we should get back. Sam will be surprised on how fast this was done." Lizzy began walking away. Luke followed suit, Asriel walked beside Luke, Asriel then wrapped his arm around Luke's shoulder to his surprise "So Luke. How did you feel when you killed him?" Luke looked to Asriel he seemed unsure he scratched his cheek slightly "It felt kinda good actually.." Asriel released Luke and stroked his chin "See? You will get used to it the more you do it. You may even end up enjoying it."

Luke nodded slowly "Y-yeah! I even got a story to tell now!" Asriel smiled he then looked to Lizzy who was a few paces ahead. Asriel wondered exactly how he was going to handle her.

Isabella walked the streets of the middle layer what she found surprising is that compared to most hive cities the middle layer looked almost close to noble districts found on other planets. Isabella chuckled "so they heap all the misery upon those who are born below.." Isabella stopped and looked around searching for a possible mark. There were a few nobles walking around with armed escorts. Sizing up some of the beggars What also stood out most of all that nobles wore many religious symbols. Isabella guessed that the nobles of this planet were pious this caused Isabella to think back to the conversation with Asriel how some nobles like to pick people up from the streets even numbers. Isabella grinned "how naughty all of you are... how bored you must be.." Isabella intentionally made herself stand out slightly she crafted her story to be slightly against the grain. Isabella wanted to make herself desirable compared to the dung heap that beg on the streets.

Isabella scanned the streets again she spotted a noble his face was quite rugged not hard on the eyes either. He also had a somewhat well built frame. She could see that he wore a great amount of religious icons. Isabella grinned she wonder what kind of darkness he hid under all of that. The noble began walking down the street.

Isabella hurried across to position herself to bump into him. Isabella waited for the right moment she walked quickly towards him. Isabella could see he is not paying attention. Isabella walked right into him she crashed to the ground with a thud. Isabella rubbed her legged slighty.
Isabella looked up to see the noble's mouth agape slightly it's clear he is struck by her beauty. Isabella tried to look as fearful as possible. She got up and turned away, Isabella felt him grabbing her arm. Isabella slowly turned "I am sorry.. please.. don't hurt me!" The noble quickly removed his hand "my apologies! Also do not worry I do not aim to hurt you." The noble coughed "may I ask who you are?"

Isabella looked away and rubbed her arm "I prefer not to say.." Isabella bowed "I am so very sorry I did not see where I was going.." The noble shook his head "It's my fault do you have a name?" Isabella slowly mouthed a name she came up with "Alivia... Alivia Odalis"
The Noble furrowed his brows "Alivia... Alivia Odalis... a wonderful name may I ask why such... a person like you is wandering the streets?" Isabella looked away slightly "When the attack happened I lost my family and then eventually our business and our home. I been... moving about doing odd and.. terrible things and side jobs for people. I drift from place to place I could not take it anymore... the requests got worse and worse.."

The noble seemed rustled by what she just said one of the noble's armed escorts came forward "sir can we trust this woman? she seems suspicious." Isabella tried to not to frown in annoyance. The noble waved his guard away "don't you see? A child of the god-emperor was thrown on the streets due to the heretical attack! Look at her! She looks middle or even perhaps upper born like me! You of all people should know how ruddy and disgusting numbers are. No one of possible higher breed should have to degrade themselves to get by!"

The guard stepped back "apologies sir.." The noble turned back to Isabella he smiled "Aliva, if you would come with me. I will do my duty to take care of you. My name is Izarus Gaidar head of House Gaidar! I swear I shall take care of you!" Isabella bowed she had to hold her grin back keep she had to keep up the act. Isabella gave the weakest smile she could possibly muster "I thank you my lord." Isabella bowed again.

Izarus reached out his hand "Your hand Alivia" Isabella slowly gave her hand Izarus kissed the top of her hand. Isabella could see Izarus is also breathing in her scent slightly. Izarus grinned "Now if you would come with me." Isabella followed deep down she was elated now she has to get to work.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/08 09:34:04


Post by: shinros


Yes I had fun writing this chapter especially Asriel's bit with the pistol.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/08 13:24:15


Post by: lliu


Hehe. Well that's fun.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/08 13:50:30


Post by: shinros


Chapter 35
The corrupted sword walks blindly as it destroys the enemies of the herald

As Asriel returned to the bar with Lizzy and Luke he could see Sam in discussion with Isira. As Asriel sat at the table Asriel could tell he is surprised he did not expect them back so soon. What shocked him more is the fact that everyone looked absolutely fine. Sam crossed his arms "Is the job completed?" Asriel nodded "all of them are dead." Sam looked to Luke and Lizzy "So.. are they truly dead?" Asriel wanted to frown but held it back it's understandable he is most likely questioning how he did it. Along with the fact that he completed the task with green members. Lizzy nodded "aye they are dead boss." Luke played with his thumbs "yes all of them are dead.

Sam leaned back in his chair "well that is a surprise. All right George you are a full member." Asriel nodded "I won't let you down." Sam turned his head to Isira "So Ashley how soon we will get those weapons?" Isira grinned "in a few days you will get the gear you will need." Sam rose from his seat "well that's today's work is done, George you should come with us we will get you set up in our base." Asriel rose from his seat he looked to Isira she waved him away "don't worry I will be fine." Asriel could see Sam and the gang members have started to leave. Asriel looked to Jimmy he guessed that Isira would be staying with him. Asriel gave Isira a curt nod "I will see you soon then."

Asriel turned away and followed Sam out of the bar. As they got outside Sam stretched "I feel these next few weeks are going to be good!" Sam turned his head slightly in Asriel's direction. Meliva shifted slightly her voice echoing in his mind "the fool has no idea does he?" Asriel smirked "Indeed he doesn't." Sam walked down the street Asriel followed. Asriel decided to engage in further discussion with Luke and Lizzy. Luke does not seem to be on edge after his first kill it seems Asriel's words have rubbed off on him. Lizzy seems to be difficult she does not exactly want to rely on him but she is looking for her own means to get stronger. What Asriel found a little amusing is that she somewhat reminded him of a certain Astartes.

They eventually stopped at a large building that had small banners hanging from the window. They were black with a white skull on it. Sam nodded to the the armed guards they opened the doors. Sam turned and faced Asriel "this is your new home. Since you joined us and Ashley is providing her contacts this place will get a lot bigger and busier." Asriel rubbed his hands together slightly it's been an age since he last ran with a gang he wondered if this one is going to be interesting? "thank you.. should I call you boss or Sam?" Sam shrugged "either works you proved yourself capable." Asriel nodded "Ok Sam I can't wait to get started." Asriel could tell Sam is grinning under his gas-mask. Sam walked into the building everyone followed suit.

Isabella took a fancy elevator with Izarus it ran far more smoothly and smelt better compared to the one she used to get to the middle layer. As they went up Izarus held his hands behind his back "tell my Alivia what kind of business did your family run before it was lost?" Isabella frowned she wanted to show the pain on her face "It was a perfume business for men and women." Izarus nodded "I see I know that many of my upper born brethren do acquire rare mixes from the middle layer. Perhaps you could brew something once you settle?" Isabella raised her eyebrow "settle?" Izarus turned to face Isabella "yes you will be living with me from now on." Isabella tried hard to contain her excitement everything is going smoothly. Isabella nodded "I see.." Izarus frowned "Do not worry Isabella I am not like the brutes who have.. handled you in the past I am quite a good patron."

Isabella could see the guards are stony faced at this discussion she guessed this is rather normal. Isabella bowed slightly "I thank you for your hospitality my lord." Izarus nodded approvingly Isabella could see she said the right thing. The elevator ground to a halt the doors opened a clean smell hit Isabella's nose, Izarus gestured for Isabella to step out first "After you." Isabella walked out of the elevator what she saw took her breath away. Tall golden spires that reached the skies, mansions with inscribed sliver and gold in the workings.

It was like she found herself on a totally different planet. Izarus walked forward "Impressive isn't it? As befits the chosen." Isabella turned slightly "Chosen?" Izarus raised his eyebrow "You must know of our planet's history? I assume you had far more worries than piety considering your station and situation." Isabella nodded she crafted a story quickly "Yes after being.. around I did not find myself worthy to take a priests time." Izarus nodded "I can see that, your new life will begin here Alivia." Izarus gestured to the golden towers and mansions "we reap the bounties of the god-emperor. We are the people who joined hands to fight back against the heretics and witches in ages past." Izarus pointed at the largest mansion in the distance "The planetary Governor Gabriel Ulbrecht has ancestry connected to the first prophet who called the emperor's holy child to this planet. To deliver us. To save us."

Izarus grinned "Now Alivia if you follow me." Isabella followed Izarus another thing Isabella noted along with the PDF there were Tempestus scions walking around. Isabella shifted slightly, Izarus caught onto it "Do not worry they are here to protect us. Ever since the attack more of them appeared to aid in keeping.. order." Isabella noticed that Izarus held onto the word order for a moment. It would not surprise her if some of the nobles joined the warband in some form and their presence is here to crack down on the nobles. She understands how suffocating that can be and it's something Isabella decided she could use in the future. They eventually stopped at a large mansion which Isabella guessed to be Izarus's home.

Izarus' guards walked forward quickly and stood at the door. One unlocked the door and opened it for them. Izarus' walked forward casually into his home looking at it for a moment Isabella felt somewhat jealous of his mansion it is far more grand and majestic compared to her one on Zatos. Isabella slowly followed as she entered the mansion even the inside out did her old home. The floor looked marble it was pristine and if you looked around there were grand paintings of saints and other icons of faith. There were also stairs leading up to a second floor the carpet also looked fresh. Izarus clapped and in a few seconds several butlers and maids came down the stairs and from the side rooms. Izarus gestured to Isabella "Please have Alivia cleaned and redressed. Also I want a request sent to a priest so he can preform the rite of cleansing."

Isabella licked her lips nervously she tried not to let it show "may I ask what is the cleansing?" Izarus smiled "It's a ritual to cleanse your body and soul and to detect any possible taint." Isabella swore under her breath she wondered if such a ritual actually worked. Isabella tried to smile "again I thank you for the hospitality my lord." Izarus held his hand up "think nothing of it." Izarus clapped again the butlers and maids somewhat forcibly escorted Isabella away. Isabella's kept thinking whether this rite will blow her cover. Isabella bit her lip slightly as the butler's and maids escorted her away.

Belaris sat his desk going over reports he has acolytes situated in the undercity, middle layer and upper layer for any sign of the gem. The gem will be the damnation of this planet if the enemy gets to it first. Belaris wondered how his agent in the undercity is doing more often than not the great enemy uses gangs to build up a presence. Belaris had Micheal searching the middle layer and finally his last Acolyte is searching among the nobility. Belaris could not take any chances considering this planet was attacked in the past he knew whatever the great enemy touches they bring ruin. Deep down Belaris hated the planet their strange system and how they treated their people their piety is a facade to hold themselves over other people. He went over the mural with the priests if he was in charge back then he would of ordered all the heretical tribes to be killed and forgotten. To even acknowledge the enemy is a sin in his eyes. In the end the decision was made possibly by a primarch and most likely not by the one who is Alive now helping to fight against the darkness.

Belaris shifted through the papers, he recently got a report from his undercity acolyte. They noted that the gang has found a new partner. The more surprising thing is the person the new partner has bought with them. Belaris could see his acolyte has a great amount of suspicion for both of them. Belaris organised a dead drop message it's how he remains in contact with his undercity Acolyte. Belaris was careful not to say their name within his mind or on the written message since he had no idea if someone could be watching at this very moment or intercept the deadrop message. Belaris leaned back in his chair he looked at his communication device screen the request to the salamnders is pending to be sent.

The message to call down the strike team the grand master gave him is also pending to be sent. Belaris wondered how the battle on Zatos is going. Belaris clenched his fists he looked at his gauntlet "If I looked into it sooner this would not have happened. I can't fail here.."
Belaris heard a knock on his door he sighed as he got up. Belaris had a good idea who it was, Belaris opened the door it was the planetary governor with his armed escort "Gabriel Ulbrecht, I did not expect you to visit me." Gabriel had tanned skin he was bald and wore a red robe lined with prayer parchment and religious icons. Gabriel walked into his office he gestured for his guards to wait outside, Gabriel looked around "I hope you are finding this office hospitable inquisitor." Belaris nodded "I thank you for the donation I recall you personally came to greet me when I arrived in the past. I still find it surprising that someone of your station is coming to me about my investigation."

Gabriel smiled "I am quite aware people in my position can be quite aloof and hard to work with but as you recall the attack is still fresh in everyone's minds." Belaris nodded "hence why I made the decision for the scions to patrol the upper layer." Gabriel nodded "I know but the nobles are getting restless inquisitor. The soldiers are scrutinising their every movement like they are.." Belaris finished his sentence "heretics? Governor what you must understand anyone can become a heretic no matter what station they are. Chosen or not."Belaris could see he struck a nerve with his last comment, Gabriel simply turned away "very well I shall leave you to your work." Gabriel left his office without another word. One thing Belaris did not bring up is how he found the office to be bugged when Gabriel first "donated" it to him. He had them removed but after he did so Gabriel now comes with his "visits".

Belaris frowned he spoke quietly to himself "chosen? what sort of pious folk would spy on the representative of the god-emperor's power? All men and women hold darkness governor even you." Belaris thought back to the cult he sprang in the past he thought it was dealt with but all that happened is that they went to ground and the attack came later. The attack everyone is still feeling to this day. In his eyes that was failure and he swore to himself not to fail again.

Belaris walked back to his desk to continue organising the dead drop.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/09 03:51:33


Post by: shinros


Chapter 36

Isabella waited nervously in the bath area with two maids. The priest is arriving soon she looked at her wrist she left the bracelet in the room Izarus provided since she would have no idea how it would react to this "cleansing" ritual. The bathing area was quite cold even the bath robe did not help keep the cold out.

Isabella looked to the small pool filled with water, she had to get past this if she is to situate herself with Izarus. Isabella waited for what felt like an age until she heard a knock. The maid opened the door and in came a priest. Well to Isira he looked nothing like a priest in her eyes. The man was tall and built, with fair olive skin he had a long grey beard. One interesting thing about him is that the arms of his robes is exposed and his face and arms are covered in scars. He held a brief case. The priest walked into the bathing area he smiled at Isabella "I assume you are Alivia?" Isabella nodded "I am, you are the priest who is going to do the cleansing ritual?"

The priest grinned "indeed so. My name is Fahim I shall be doing this ritual for you my lady." Fahim walked to the pool he nodded "so the water is prepared." Fahim set down the briefcase and opened it he removed several charms and herbs from the brief case and placed them on the floor near the pool. Fahim knelt slightly and began praying while throwing the herbs into the water. Isabella eyed the water for any changes the only thing she could see is the herbs floating at the top of the water. Fahim picked up the charms to Isira they looked like small golden orbs engraved with the aquilla.

Fahim chucked them in one at a time, as he did so the water began bubbling. Fahim continued to pray until he threw in the last orb. The bubbling stopped as Fahim's prayer ended. Fahim gestured to the pool "can you please step into the pool Lady Aliva?" Isabella removed her bathrobe she is wearing a white gown. Isabella slowly stepped into the bath until the water reached her neck. The water felt incredibly cold but the sensation felt oddly different. After a few seconds Isabella felt a painful sensation It felt like the water was stabbing into her and then drilling into her skin.

Isabella told herself no matter what she can't scream Isabella took small breaths she told herself that she just needs to remain in the water until the priest is satisfied. The priest began to reach down with his hand he grabbed her head and pushed her down into the water. Isabella thrashed slightly the pain got even worse now it felt like she was burning she tried to clam herself to stop thrashing it might give something away. To Isabella it felt like the water is now attacking her she was an anathema to it. The water wanted to end her completely. Eventually the force from her head vanished just rose and took several gasps.

Isabella looked up to the priest who is now stroking his beard in contemplation "It is done." The priest smiled and gave a blessing "God-emperor be with Lady Alivia." Fahim made the sign of the Aquila before leaving. Isabella wanted to get out of the bath quickly it was still painful to be within it. The maids helped her out they had several towels ready. Isabella shivered slightly she wondered truly if she passed this "cleansing ritual". Fahim walked the halls of the mansion he approached the exit and he saw the nobleman Izarus waiting. Fahim walked down the steps, To Fahim Izarus seemed like a person who has not seen a single day of hardship. Fahim gave a small bow "It is done." Izarus wiped his brow of sweat "Is it? She is clean?" Fahim nodded "Yes. the holy waters did assault her but it's more likely due to her sinful lifestyle than anything."

Izarus relaxed "Thank you. I heard rumours that someone was found.." Fahim held his hand up "you should not pay attention to rumours sir Izarus. Rumours can stain a soul if you listen too carefully. Now it's time for me to leave" Fahim made the sign of the Aquila "May the god-emperor watch over you sir Izarus." Izarus made the sign of Aquila "you as well Priest Fahim."

Fahim walked past Izarus who is now going up stairs Fahim shook his head in sadness he muttered under his breath "the nobles piety is fake he is just as sinful as that woman." Fahim turned the nob of the door and walked out. Fahim was on the porch of Izarus' mansion he looked up thinking, Belaris had him investigate the nobles via this banisher ritual since the nobles are so obsessed with the appearance of purity. They in their minds want to appear pure no matter how despicable and decedent they are. Belaris knew of the nobles filthy practice and such practice can easily taint someone. Belaris stroked his beard he mused that the nobles know of the one taken away when he done the ritual upon him his skin blistered and burned. The heretic was taken into questioning by Belaris he revealed nothing no matter what was done to him. In the end the heretic was simply executed.

The noble woman that found the heretic was questioned as well Belaris decided to have her released but only under house arrest her every move is now watched. Fahim chuckled "how nobles like to gossip."

Asriel twirled the knife in his hand he was sitting in one of the lounges in the base. Asriel felt anxious, Sam has largely been sending him on low key jobs. Yes their territory is expanding but Asriel felt it was too slow. it's been about a month perhaps he should be satisfied with their current progress if they expanded too quickly it would attract unwanted attention. Asriel sheathed his knife he sniffed the air he could smell the corruption setting into the gang it's small but it's getting there. Asriel saw it on Sam the foremost since getting into contact with Isira they now have "private" discussions on how to advance the power of gang.

Also since giving pointers to Luke others have now started to come to him for advice. The only one who hasn't so far is Lizzy. Asriel found her rather difficult she wanted to get stronger on her own. Asriel somewhat admired that she does engage with the gang in a sense but to Asriel he was curious as to why she seems such a loner in that small regard.

Asriel got up "perhaps I should talk to her?" Asriel left the lounge about this time he knew Lizzy would be practising her hand to hand skills in one of the open combat rooms. Asriel walked to the second floor he could hear gun shots and shouts as people brawl for cash. Asriel heightened his hearing slightly as he walked down the corridor. Asriel stopped at one of the doors he can hear fists and feet cutting through the air. Asriel listened carefully all of the movements were clean. Far too clean for his liking. Asriel knocked the sound stopped. Lizzy opened the door she gave a small smile when she saw it was him "What is it George? I am practising."

Asriel smiled back "do you want to spar?" Lizzy looked away slightly as she scratched the back of her head "hmm maybe later. I did want to ask you something." Asriel raised his eyebrow "what is it?" Lizzy gestured for him to come into the room. As Asriel walked in Lizzy grabbed a towel from the table and wiped the sweat off her body.

She wrapped the towel around her shoulders she turned to face Asriel "I need to ask a favour." Asriel folded his arms he cocked his head slightly "A favour?" Lizzy nodded "Yes I have been talking to someone.. I think we can get another trade partner. He is looking to make a deal and wants to meet up. He has a host of weapons and narcotics" Asriel stroked his chin "you know Sam does not like when people do things behind his back Lizzy."

Lizzy bit her lip slightly "I know... I just wanted to prove I can get things done. Now what I want Asriel is for you to convince him to pursue it." Asriel nodded he smiled gently "If I do this will you spar with me?" Lizzy grinned "that desperate to fight me? Alright fine. If you can convince Sam and complete the deal I will do it." Asriel crossed his arms "do you know where this deal is taking place?" Lizzy nodded "yeah it's on the lower levels near the drainage pipes. A lot of them are broken but it's an area few frequent so it's pretty safe to make a deal there." Asriel's eyes almost went wide he had to control himself. He could not show even an ounce of surprise to her. Meliva shifted slightly she grew alert as Lizzy spoke "you are aware she is lying? It's clearly a trap."

Asriel did not care it's his shot to save his Lord. Asriel nodded "I will talk to Sam now. No one is seeing him at the moment." Lizzy smiled "thank you George!"

Asriel returned her smile "think nothing of it Lizzy. Now I need to be on my way." Asriel turned away and left the room. As he walked to Sam's room on the top floor Meliva continued to protest "what are you doing?! You should know better!" Asriel hissed "enough Meliva! I don't care!" Meliva growled in anger before eventually falling silent. Asriel briskly walked to Sam's room he stood in front of his door and knocked. He waited until he heard Sam's muffled voice "Come in!" Asriel grabbed the door handle and opened the door. Sam is sitting on a large chair a table is in front him and resting on it is papers and a large map.

Sam looked up "What is it George?" Asriel cleared his throat "I wish to talk to you about something." Sam leaned back in the chair "what about?" Asriel wondered how he should frame the question "there is a possible trade partner we can hook up with." Sam raised his eyebrow "oh really? What are they wishing to trade?" Asriel nodded he took the bait quite easily "mainly weapons and Narcotics he wants to make a meet on the lower level at the drainage area." Sam looked down slightly, Asriel could tell he is thinking "I assume Lizzy put you up to this?" Asriel grinned "what gave me away?" Sam chuckled "the girl seeks to prove herself she does not exactly like being in your shadow." Sam sighed "right I don't normally like it but in this case I will allow it. I want you to head the negotiation just in case of any funny business and you are a smart guy on top of that. Take a few men and women with you along with Lizzy since it's her idea."

Sam got up he walked to the corner of his room, Asriel followed. Sam stood in front of a safe he gestured to Asriel "Could you turn away for a moment George?" Asriel turned his back he could hear Sam pushing several buttons. The safe door clicked open. Sam tapped Asriel on the shoulder "You can turn around."

Asriel turned he could see sam is holding three credit sticks. Sam placed three in his hands "each of them contain 1000 thrones that should be the taster for our new partner. If his goods are legit then trade will continue. Don't let me down George." Asriel nodded "I won't."

Sam crossed his arms "Right you should get to work then?" Asriel smiled he turned away he had to gather the men and Lizzy. Asriel also had to mentally prepare himself because he was still not sure what he would find at that location. He still wondered truly what the bright light and the shining sword truly represents.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/09 03:52:58


Post by: shinros


Oh god I am so excited for the next few chapters. (yes I sorta plan the story in advance)


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/10 00:35:23


Post by: shinros


Chapter 37

Asriel gathered the men and women he is going to take with him Lizzy was also there, Asriel could see she was grinning ear to ear "So you covinced Sam to do it?" Asriel nodded "indeed so let's hope something fruitful comes from this deal." Lizzy pointed down the street "if we just walk down the road and take a left into the alley way our gang elevator should be there.

Asriel folded his arms "right let's get going then?" Lizzy nodded. They walked down the road and made a left down the alley way Asriel could see two heavily armed members of the gang. One nodded "heading down?" Lizzy smiled "indeed we are going on a job." The guard turned around and pressed a few buttons on the panel the lift door opened he turned back "be careful down there as always there are crazy mutants running about." Asriel tried not to smile when the guard said that if only he had any idea of what is happening. Still in the end Asriel was not sure what would happen to the gang if where he is heading to is the correct place in Noxus' vision. Lizzy stepped into the lift she gestured "come on, times wasting." Asriel and the group he bought with him walked onto the lift. The doors closed and the lift went down. Asriel held his hands together tightly, Lizzy touched him on the shoulder "you nervous George? That's rare." Asriel chuckled slightly "everyone get's nervous at one point or another."

Asriel looked down to his hands he was slightly nervous he wondered if everything is going to work out. Not all of Noxus' visions are literal. The lift ground to a halt and the door opened. Everyone walked out Lizzy looked around "the meet should be a few streets down let's go." Asriel nodded "lead the way." Lizzy lead the way they tried to avoid going on the main street they did not want to draw too much attention. As they walked the amount of drainage pipes that started to appear around them increased. Eventually they came to an open area with a fence. Asriel briskly walked forward to Lizzy's surprise Asriel looked over the fence he saw the large pipe with the hole on top of it. Asriel looked around in the general area there were several exposed pipes pouring out dirty water. Lizzy walked up to Asriel "Is something wrong George?" Asriel turned his head to Lizzy "is our trade partner turning up soon?" Lizzy nodded "yeah they should be here in a few minutes."

Asriel grinned "good." Lizzy raised her eyebrow in confusion "is everything okay George?" Asriel held his smile "everything is fine Lizzy." As Asriel finished speaking he heard footsteps a large amount of them. Far more than expected for a trade partners guard. Asriel turned he saw Tempestus scions and a man leading them he wore power armour that is a mix of black, red and sliver. He also wore a red hood. Lizzy walked over to the man in power armour she saluted "inquisitor." The inquisitor nodded "good work Larissa." Asriel chuckled so that's her real name much more better than Lizzy. Larissa turned and pulled out her gun Asriel could see her form was perfect. Practice. Larissa raised her eyebrow "you don't seem all that surprised George." Asriel shrugged "not really." One of the gang members stepped forwards "traitor! Why are you with them!" The inquisitor took another step forward as the scions trained their lasguns on them "Do not speak filth for you may have been consorting with those who spread heresy. Now you have a choice come willingly or resist if you resist that is confirmation of your guilt."

Asriel smirked as he looked to the inquisitor's weapon it was a sword all he needed is the confirmation"I choose resistance inquisitor." The inquisitor sighed he unsheathed his sword it glowed with a blue brilliance. Looking at it hurt Asriel's eyes, but for some reason he can't stop smiling.
Asriel grinned ear to ear "he must be the one.." Asriel charged the inquisitor he put everything he had in it. Asriel could see his speed surprised the inquisitor, as Asriel charged the scion's began firing at the gang members he bought with him.

Asriel only had eyes for the inquisitor, the inquisitor readied himself, Asriel could see he was aiming to impale him just like in the vision. As Asriel closed in the inquisitor stabbed him he drove his sword through his body. Asriel screamed he could also hear Meliva's voice echoing clearly with his. The pain was horrific the blade felt like it burned his flesh Asriel could see the inquisitor is looking at him in surprise. Asriel gave a weak smile he knew that the inquisitor expected him to dodge considering his speed. Meliva began roaring in his mind "what are you doing?! Kill him! Kill him now! He will kill us!" Asriel chuckled weakly "what am I doing? I am going to get rid of you and save him.." Meliva shouted "You traitor! You fool! Look at what you have done!" Asriel laughed again "there is the line..." Asriel could now see the inquisitor is looking at him with disgust. Asriel guessed he most likely knew what he is.

The inquisitor removed his blade and slashed him across the chest Asriel screamed as he staggered back to the fence holding his chest. Asriel looked at his hand covered in blood his hand is beginning to twitch erratically Asriel could see Meliva is perhaps trying to take control. Asriel gripped his chest with his other hand his wounds are not healing. He can't concentrate either, Asriel wondered how this would set him free. Asriel looked around he can see the gang members are going down but the scions are not shooting to kill. Asriel narrowed his eyes the inquisitor truly wanted to capture them alive. Asriel looked back to the exposed pipe and then down to his injuries.

Asriel could see that his injuries are severe if unattended he will most likely bleed out Asriel looked forward he can see the inquisitor walking towards him his blade shimmering. Asriel chuckled "so death it is then." Asriel hopped over fence blood spilling from his wounds as he did so Asriel grunted in pain. He heard the inquisitor shouting "Fire! Don't let it escape!" Asriel felt several shots hitting his back he fell forward and crashed onto the pipe and slid into the exposed hole. A surge of water hit Asriel pushing him down the pipe. He can feel the burn marks on his back he never felt so much pain before.

Asriel tried to smile at least in this his lord will as he was moving through the pipe his eyes felt heavy he could still hear Meliva roaring in anger as blood continued to spill from his wounds. Asriel closed his eyes in satisfaction.

+flesh of my flesh, blood of my blood you have finally come home+

Adelram sat in his chamber drinking a glass of wine he swirled it in his hand. Next to him he looked at a small dish on a table holding three shining pink orbs. Adelram hovered his fingers over it and from the orb a name is formed over each in pink eldritch fire. One for Isabella, One for Isira and the last for Asriel. As Adelram looked at the orb bearing Asriel's name felt happy oddly enough he wondered how Asriel would plot what. Adelram tried to think of what kinds of plans Asirel would do to bring corruption to the lower layer. Isira is a good foil to him even if they dislike each other in the end it is an advantage since they would push each other to be their best.

Thinking back to what Asriel did on Zatos swells his twin hearts. The issue is ever since they left he hasn't been... "active." Adelram stared at the orb for a few moments more it began flickering in and out from pink to black. Adelram picked up the orb and stared at it in confusion "it's impossible..." Adelram checked the name again that he is holding Asriel's orb "It can't be.." The orb flickered for a few moments more until it finally turned black.

Adelram shouted "It's impossible!" Adelram was breathing heavily he wanted to swing some of his wine he looked to his other hand, the glass was gone crushed into small shards of glass. Wine dribbling down his gauntlet.

Isira walked down the street to the dead skulls base around this time she would have a meeting with sam on how to expanding the territory along with other.. activities. As Isira approached the base she spotted Tempetus scions and Arbites dragging people out of the base and putting them on their knees. She even saw Sam in the group on his knee's guns trained on him.

Isira immediately turned around and bit one of her nails "how?! what tipped them off?!" Isira hurried down the street until she heard someone calling her "Ashley! psst over here!" Isira turned to her right behind a bin in the alley way she saw someone. Isira walked into the alley and looked around. From behind the bin she saw someone he had somewhat shaggy blonde hair, olive skin and brown eyes. Isira tapped her cheek "Luke right?" Luke nodded "Yes! I was just getting back from an errand until I saw what was going on down the street!" Isira looked Luke up and down Isira could see that Luke has discarded his gang uniform and any other gang iconography. Spotting this she could see Luke is reliable. Isira gestured her finger up and down "So you got rid of you gang clothing?" Luke nodded "aye! George taught me when a situation like this occurs that I should get rid of anything that could connect me to the group." Isira stroked her chin Asriel taught him a few things which makes him even further reliable.

Isira crossed her arms "Do you know where George is?" Luke scratched the back of his head "before heading out I heard he was going on a job with Lizzy and a few others to the lower level." Isira stroked her chin she found it highly suspicious it normally does not take Asriel long to complete tasks. Still they need to go to Jimmy's, looking at Luke Isira could tell corruption is setting in slightly he just needs a further push.

Isira lowered her hand "right, follow me to Jimmy's place we will hide out there." Luke raised his eyebrow "why there? is it safe?" Isira nodded "yes now follow me." Isira turned around and looked about the street before heading back out "the coast is clear, come on luke!" Isira's bracelet felt warm for some reason she looked at it she could see the gem flashing with a dim light. Isira swore under her breath it could be a coincidence but she guessed something has happened. Isira briskly walked back to the drowning flagon with Luke, as she made her way into the bar she went straight to Jimmy to his surprise "Jimmy, I need the safe room." Jimmy's eye diverted to Luke "what of him my lady?" Isira turned her head slightly "give him a separate room." Jimmy nodded "very well follow me."

Jimmy took Isira into the back where he stored all the beer there was a door with several locks at the back of the room. Luke's voice came out a stammer "w-where are we going Ashley?" Isira turned her head slightly to Luke "a place where we can lay low until this blows over." Jimmy took Isira to the door and unlocked it with a set of keys Isira looked down to stairs. She grinned and turned to Jimmy Isira pecked Jimmy on the cheek "Always so reliable.." Jimmy's moustache rustled slightly "always doing my duty my lady." Isira gestured to Luke "follow me down quickly!" Isira made her way downstairs Luke followed behind her. Jimmy closed the door as they entered.

As they got to the bottom of the stairs Isira felt around the wall for the switch, she flicked it and the lights came on. As the lights illuminated the corridor there were several rows of doors. Isira pointed at the first "that one is yours if you need me knock first." Luke simply nodded he went to the door and opened it his mouth fell "Woah.. it looks like a noble's house in here!" Luke slowly walked into the room and closed the door. Isira looked to the bracelet it was still flashing she creased her brow in a mix of annoyance and fear. Isira walked over to the second door and opened it she entered. The room had a luxurious double bed, a wine cabinet and a soft chair. The room was also sound proof. Isira turned to the door and locked it. She then walked to the middle of the room and pressed her finger down on the gem on her bracelet. The gem began to glow and a line of eldritch light left the gem. It made a circle in the air and in the middle of it a strange glass like substance filled the circle, Isira squinted her eyes she could almost see through it.

After a moment Adelram appeared to Isira his facial expression was like ice, Isira knelt "my lord." Adelram's voice came through it was cold, firm if his voice is like this Isira knew he is upset about something "Isira. Can you tell me what's happening on your end?" Isira bit her lip "I have encountered some difficulties with infiltrating a gang my lord." Adelram nodded "I see... so can you tell me what happened to Asriel then?" A cold bead of sweat ran down her brow "I-I- don't know." Isira felt her heart tightening, Isira looked around with her eyes rime began covering certain objects in the room. Adelram then held up a black orb it was about the same size as the gem in the bracelet. Adelram chuckled "Asriel's orb went black which means he is dead." Isira's heart began beating rapidly "Dead...?" Adelram nodded "according to this yes." Isira expected Adelram to be raging even if he has not been paying much attention to Asriel lately. Isira bowed her head lower "according to one of the gang members he has stated Asriel went on a job he hasn't returned."

Adelram responded he raised his voice "what in the name of the Phoenician could kill him?! On that mudball!" Isira raised her hands "My lord I-" Adelram raised one of his hands "Enough Isira! Enough! It seems I must turn to Isabella I must think on this." His image bled away the glass substance disspated along with the eldritch light.

The rime melted away in an instant. Isira was still on her knee she felt angrythat everything has fallen apart. Her plot and her shot at getting his praise his attention. Isira screwed her face into pure fury "It's all Asriel's fault!" As she said Asriel's name it dawned on her that as Adelram has just said he is dead. Isira's face relaxed she grinned "Asirel is dead... there is a chance I could have him all to myself... he could be mine..."

Adelram paced in his chambers the anger, the fury was not going away was it Isira's failure? Or perhaps.. "No!" Adelram said out loud. Adelram took several breaths "calm down, there is no reason to be angry. Asriel died... he is a failure." As Adelram said this to himself he found his breathing began to steady "yes a failure." Adelram remembered Lily's conversation to move onto better things "there is nothing wrong with moving to better things.." Adelram said quietly to himself. Adelram took another deep breath. Adelram looked to the hand he crushed the wine glass with it was shaking. Adelram held his wrist "stop shaking..."

Adelram ground his teeth in anger the shaking wouldn't stop "I said stop!" Adelram made a fist trying to control his hand, the sound of the chained slaves he keeps within his chambers entered his mind. Adelram swept his eyes over all of them "Silence!" All the slaves fell quiet but one just one whimpered. Adelram walked over they edged back trying to get out of his shadow. Adelram grabbed the slave's head with his troublesome hand and smashed their face into the wall. Brain matter slowly slid down the wall. Adelram took another breath he looked at the hand again it was still shaking. Adelram roared in anger he turned to the next slave and punched their face smashing off their jaw. All at once the slaves began straining at their chains trying to get away.

Adelram still felt his hand shaking he grabbed any object he could get his hand on and smashed it to pieces. He smashed tables, bottles, chairs, paintings any of the slaves that got in his way he killed. Tearing them to pieces with his bare hands.

Marthas stood in front of Adelram's chambers with Silas and Jedrick. He was just about to knock until he heard all the noise. The breaking of items and the dying screams of slaves Silas turned to him "Should we come back later?" Marthas frowned "we should be going over the strategy on how we are going to assault the planet." Marthas moved his hand to the door, Jedrick grabbed it "Let's come back later... trust me." Marthas sighed "later then.."

At once all three turned away the death screams of slaves and broken objects echoing from the door.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/10 00:36:34


Post by: shinros


Well this chapter was quite fun to write.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/10 18:26:49


Post by: shinros


Chapter 38

Isabella sat in her room she looked around while drinking a glass of wine it was far more spacious than her old room on Zatos. The room had a quality double bed, chairs and silk curtains. The only turn off was the religious iconography in the room Isabella tried not to stare at them in her eyes they were ugly, disgusting and revolting. One interesting thing Isabella did find about the room was many rooms within the mansion including hers were sound proof. In the end this Isabella found this ends in her advantage since it gives her a safe space to contact her lord. Isabella then swirled the contents of her wine glass thinking on how things are progressing. After the cleansing ritual Izarus was more than happy to spend.. time with her. He also took to parading her around other nobles when ever Izarus visited their mansions for whatever business he has with them. Whether to cut a new deal to expand his power or to trade barbs and threats to avoid losing it. Still Isabella could see the pure envy, lust and jealously in the eyes of the nobles they visited.

One thing Isabella found odd in the past few days is how the amount of scion patrols increased and they pressed ever harder on the nobles. Through questioning or even getting permits to search their premises. There are even rumours some nobles have vanished for a few days to return a crying wreck.

Isabella wondered if something happened, even so she could not help but grin since this might provide an oppturnity. In her experience the harder the "authorties" press on the nobles they find their own way to push back. Isabella drank some of her wine she placed the glass on the table and leaned on her hand slightly "perhaps it's time for the push?" Isabella rose from her seat and left her room. She walked down the corridoors to a room with double doors. Isabella knew that Izarus should be in his office chambers around this time.

Isabella grabbed the door nob lightly and turned the handle. She opened the door and walked in. Izarus is sitting at his desk looking down to what Isabella assumed to be letters. Isabella waited until he was finished she wanted him to address her when he is ready as a sign of "respect".
Isabella waited for about a minute until Izarus finally looked up "Alivia is something wrong?" Isabella slowly walked forward "I am just checking up on you." Isabella could see that Izarus seemed stressed about something his eye makes a tiny subtle twitch when he is thinking about something. Izarus picked up a letter "In a sense all of my "friends" are dropping contact fearing it might draw the eyes of the scions."

Isabella digested the information it's something else she could use "I see.. I assume nobles have many trade partners and own small business. Some might even hold power in other areas." Izarus leaned back in his chair "you are indeed correct considering your family ran a business I assume you had many nobles coming to you offering some form of sponsorship." Isabella nodded "that is indeed the case sometimes they would give us an invite to a social gathering." Isabella hoped he would take the bait, Izarus raised his eyebrow "social gathering?" Isabella smiled "yes sometimes they have a theme around it they invite business owners, members of the clergy and other nobles to them. Where they discuss deals and other effects." Izarus shifted in his seat "I never heard of nobles doing this Alivia."

Isabella nodded "that means it worked you see my lord they also served the function to target specific people they want to deal with and because it was invitation only other rivals can't get involved." Izarus nodded in understanding "makes sense it's clear the greatest noble houses will do this to gain such power." Izarus stroked his chin "social gathering... interesting. So let's say I do this how would I go about it?" Isabella curtsied "well first we decide a theme I say it should be a fancy dress with masks." Izarus nodded "I see. Anything else?" Isabella grinned "considering the state of the upper layer I recommend you buy a several small housings instead of hosting it here and give potential partners different directions. Cycle between the housings with each gathering. Target the nobles you wish to come to accord with give them the quickest route so you get more time to talk with them." Izarus smiled "you are quite intelligent aren't you Alivia?" Isabella bowed "I had to be running a business was quite cut throat my lord especially when nobles are looking to invest in you."

Izarus nodded in understanding "I can understand, dealing with my compatriots is even doubly so. Give me time to think on this Alivia." Isabella smiled "very well my lord." Isabella can see that he is going to agree with it such an action it would provide him a great advantage to increase his power. Through such an event she can get to work turning them to Lord Adelram's cause. In the end no matter how pure the nobles wish to appear on this planet they still have desires to explore her being here in this mansion serving Izarus "needs" is clear enough. This is something Isaballa wants to exploit.

Isabella could now see Izarus is smiling thinking, planning on how he will put it into operation "Dear Alivia you are dismissed for now." Isabella curtsied and left Izarus' office. She stood at the door grinning ear to ear, after a moment the bracelet felt warm around her wrist she looked down to see the gem is flashing dimly. Isabella smoothly covered her wrist as she walked back to her room. As she returned Isabella locked her door and closed the curtains. She pressed her finger down on the gem a pink line that glowed unnaturally came from the bracelet it made a circle. A glass like substance began to fill the circle and eventually her Lord, Lord Adelram appeared.

Whenever she looked at him her heart flutters she curtsied "My lord." Her lord's face was icy as he said "Isabella how are things going on your end?" Isabella smiled "it's going well the noble I am staying with values me greatly." Her lord nodded "I see. Is there anything else?" Isabella spread her arms out "yes we are going to organise a.. social gathering and through that I will get to work." Her lord's expression began to warm slightly "I see. this is good, very good considering most of the military might is focused on the upper layer if you can get the nobles and their private guard on our side.." Isabella nodded in agreement "Indeed some nobles may even have connections with the PDF and in turn the corruption will trickle downwards."

Her lord chuckled "wonderful Isabella, just wonderful it's nice to hear some good news I shall give you a gift to aid you." As her lord said those words the glass rippled a pouch came through and dropped on the floor. Isabella picked it up "what is this? Also how did you do that?" Her lord gave her a gentle smile "the warp can bend reality Isabella, now the pouch? It contains a dust that would cake out the desires of those who intake it. Start with a pinch and adjust the dose from there." Isabella smiled "I thank you for the gift I won't fail you." her lord chuckled "See that you don't if you succeed I shall give you a reward after all of this is done." His image then vanished, the glass dissipated along with the glowing pink line. Isabella looked at the pouch she held it to her chest she felt hot for some reason "a reward? what should I ask? What would he give me?" Her mind raced with possibilities.

+supplicant be blessed to even hear my voice, to even have a fraction of my time. Be also joyus that I shall use you for my needs. Now rise.+

Asriel opened his eyes his vision is blurred. Asriel thrashed he could not move his hands he was scared, terrified he screamed. He heard a woman's voice some parts he could make out "hol- h-" Asriel could feel people are holding him down the woman's voice came again "ge- th- el-" Someone then stood over him holding his head still. Asriel blinked rapidly a person looked down to him they wore a strange mask with plumed feathers. Asriel slowly calmed himself down his vision is now correcting itself he looked at the mask in detail it was shaped like a snake somewhat. With strange paint marking parts of it. Asriel weakly said "where am I?" A familiar voice came from the mask it sounded like the voice he heard a moment ago "be still. Calm yourself you are safe."

Asriel tried to reconnect what just happened before it went dark he remembered being stabbed, shot and then he remembered her. Asriel hissed "Meliva.." As Asriel said the name he felt nothing. No coiling, no voice no spikes of pain or pleasure in his mind. Asriel's mouth quivered "she is gone? Truly gone?". The woman responded confused "who are you referring to?" Asriel tried to rise he could still feel himself being held down "who are you people?! what are you doing?!" The woman spoke gently "we are the true people of Yaretzi, the true people who seek freedom from the daemons above." Asriel mouthed the name slowly "Yaretzi.." The woman nodded she released his head, Asriel felt the pressure leaving his body. Asriel rose to his feet he could see he was lying on several sheets.

Asriel looked down to himself he could see he was not wearing a shirt and majority of his gear and items were gone even the bracelet. Asriel could see that he had a large scar across his chest and there was a scar in the location of where he was impaled by the inquisitors sword. Finally he looked to his hands which were bound in dark chains what shocked him even more were that his tattoo's were gone. It was no longer there. Asriel tried to recall again what happened he hopped over the fence and then was shot in the back and fell into an exposed pipe and then it went dark. He then heard a wonderful voice and he awoke here. Asriel looked around there were men and women wearing long loin cloths, they also had clothing that covered their chest as well.

On their skin he could see tatoo's and tribal painting covering their skin all of them wore masks of various shapes and appearances. All of them either had an icon of a snake on it or the mask held the appearance of one. The woman who held his head stood in front of Asriel seeing her fully she had tattoo's of a coiling snake going around her wrists and ankles. Her skin was also olive "greetings are in order I assume? My name is Kar'iz" Asriel nodded slowly he then looked to his hands "you introduce yourself yet it appears I am a prisoner of sorts." Asriel felt his voice shaking slightly as he spoke he was nervous scared even. He does not remember the last time he felt like this. Kar'iz nodded "I can understand why but it was necessary you wield the power of the Gothi you see. Like me I am a Gyoja we were not sure how you would react when you awakened." Asriel raised his eyebrow in confusion "what is a Gothi or Gyoja?" Kar'iz held her hands together "it means priest in the daemon tongue. The priests among our people are our greatest warriors, prophets and healers. They wield the power of the gods." Asriel slowly nodded in understanding he could feel his power but it was far weaker than before it felt distant even. Asriel strained at the chains he could not break them if he had her strength... Asriel shook his head "she is gone." he said quietly to himself.

Asriel narrowed his eyes "why am I here? what do you want from me?" As Asriel said those words he heard a door opening an closing. He saw a man with somewhat dark skin wearing a snake headdress with a mix of blue, pink and black feathers. He also wore gold bangles on his wrists and ankles along with a black cape.

Asriel looked at his features he had a grey beard and wrinkles he walked over to Kar'iz they spoke. What Asriel noticed whatever language they were speaking was a mix of low gothic and the dark tongue. Asriel listened carefully the elder man who just entered was asking if he was truly the one. Kar'iz is pressing they have no choice and he was found in the place the herald said he would be found.

Finally the elder man turned to him and spoke fully in low gothic his voice was firm, hard he then pointed at him "you, of thin blood and one who has forgotten their heritage. You will fight for us." Asriel stepped back slightly "what do you mean fight?! I don't even know you!" The elder stepped forward power radiating from his eyes "you will fight. You don't have any other choice."

Asriel's mouth felt dry he felt fear, true fear. He hasn't felt such a sensation in near a century it crawled into his heart and gripped it tightly Asriel wondered exactly what he has gotten himself into.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/10 23:40:04


Post by: shinros


Chapter 39

Asriel was escorted out by Kar'iz and the elder man as he was escorted out of the building he could see the building has been put together with iron plates. As they got outside Asriel saw a group of men and women wearing golden lumiscent skull masks. The mask had feathers lining the top of the mask and finally a small sliver snake was engraved on the forehead of the mask.

They stood in a line and readied their glaive's, As Asriel looked at the weapon small runes were engraved upon them. One stepped forward Asriel assumed he was the leader of the group their mask was slightly more embellished "High Gothi." The elder nodded "Ulg'pha, surround the thin blood we are going to the arena." Asriel watched Ulg'pha proceed to look him up and down going by his body language Asriel could see that Ulg'pha found him disgusting. Ulg'pha nodded "yes high Gothi." The armed guard surrounded Asriel the High Gothi turned to Asriel "as I said thin blood you will fight and you will win." Asriel frowned "as I said I have no idea who you are! Why do you expect me to fight for you?!" Ulg'pha slammed the shaft of his glaive on the ground "High gothi we should cut his tongue out how sure are you that we can rely on him?" Asriel could tell that they think he can't understand them for now he kept this to himself he was not sure what would happen if he revealed such a fact. The high Gothi turned to Ulg'pha "hold your tongue the herald of our tribe said to do this!" Ulg'pha looked away "very well if the thin blood tries anything I will kill him."

The high Gothi gestured "we need to get going we called for the lithasblot we can't be late for the opening ceremony" The guards pushed Asriel forward to walk. Asriel grimaced Asriel wondered why he was still alive right now and he wondered what he did to get into this situation.
Asriel walked he looked around he was in a large open space that was miles long, Asriel could see in the distance it was a circle. Tents and similar iron plate housing covered the area and in the middle was a grand snake statue. There were also open pipes pouring water, clean water into moat surrounding the edge of the area. Asriel also saw some green patches near the edges and a host of strange vegetables and fruit was growing around that area. They eventually reached a gate leading into a tunnel. Two guards stood at the gate soon as they saw them they went to work opening the gate. Both guards turned a wheel at both ends lifting the gate upwards. The guards escorting Asriel pushed him as he stared at the gates. Kar'iz then walked to the front of the group and began talking to the high gothi as they walked down the tunnel.

Asriel could see they were whispering he could not pick out what they are saying. Asriel sighed with Meliva he could easily pick out their discussion. As Asriel thought on that fact he started to feel nervous, anxious even they want him to fight how would he fight without Meliva?
Asriel cast his head down slightly his hands felt cold he gripped them tightly, Asriel tried to think back to the voice he heard before. The voice was enchanting it swelled his heart just to hear it. The voice said that he needs him but for what? They came upon a mid section where it splits off by several tunnels. Kar'iz pointed to one "the lithasblot is being hosted by the hrafn tribe they poured a great amount of time into their arena." Ulg'pha scowled in anger "to appease the "prophet" he is a liar I have no idea why they bowed to him. They of all people should be able to detect lies." The high gothi creased his brow "enough both of you, we had our slaves delivered in advance for the opening ceremony and our champions are already there getting ready to fight."

Asriel raised his eyebrow "if you have champions there already why are you making me fight?!" Ulg'pha turned and slapped Asriel across the head the pain, it stang. Asriel felt a tingling throb against his head it was strange to him. Pain normally vanished in a second before. The sensation stuck with him he felt fear again and held his tongue back from saying anything else. The high gothi turned to Asriel "you thin blood will be put in with the slaves at the opening ceremony. We found you in one of the old tunnel routes under an old pipe how convient you would appear when the opening ceremony was just a few hours away from starting." Asriel clenched his hands he did not utter another word.

They continued to walk in silence until Asriel saw a bright light at the end of the tunnel they came upon a large open space larger than the one before. A great iron dome covered the area. Asriel could see people walking about wearing masks he could see masks shaped like a dog or wolf, others wore bug like masks with a fly rune engraved upon it and finally those who wore raven masks. Asriel could also see guards who wore more elaborate versions of said masks guarding chained people, what was interesting to Asriel is that they wore clothes that are normally seen on the lower level or the undercity. He even spotted the odd arbite uniform.The only thing all of the masked people had in common is that they all wore crimson robes of deep red. High gothi sighed "they are throwing away all of our traditions our history..." Kar'iz touched the high gothi's arm "it's why we called the lithasblot it's our chance. they have to stop hostilities until it's completed at least their "prophet" respects that much."

Asriel wondered what on earth the lithasblot is but one thing he knew is that it's not good for his health. They walked to the dome, Asriel could tell the High Gothi looked weary as they entered like a great weight has been placed on his shoulders. As they entered a man who wore a elaborate bone mask shaped in a raven came forward. He held a staff that has two orbs circling it. He also had a raven with blue feathers resting on his shoulder. Asriel eyed the bird and wondered if it related to Noxus' vision. The man in the raven mask approached the high gothi "Gravu it's been awhile.."

The guards that escorted Asriel readied their weapons, Asriel looked at the high gothi he seared his name into his mind. Gravu folded his arms "Phavo, are you here at the bidding of your "prophet"?" Phavo chuckled "no I just came wondering why you left for home in such a hurry before." Phavo diverted his gaze to Asriel as Phavo looked at him it felt like he was tunnelling into his very soul "very interesting Gravu, you went to pick up one more slave for the opening ceremony?" Gravu nodded "yes you of all people should know how the ormr tribe stick to perfection we missed one slave from our lot. I assume your champion is going to put on a show for the opening ceremony?" Phavo chuckled again his voice slightly distorted this time "of course he is the greatest warrior gothi of our tribe." Gravu then frowned "such a great champion of the hrafn fighting for the prophet. I wonder what you want out of all of this?" Phavo sighed "we all want the same thing Gravu. To bring back the king to lead us. To kill all the daemons." Gravu clenched his fists "If your champion wins the lithasblot there is no guarantee he will be the one."

Phavo shrugged "of course hence why we keep doing it every ten years, you are just fortunate it was your turn to call it this time. The prophet seems willing to throw all our champions at the baomer. Still I convinced him to allow this to give you some time to think it over Gravu it would be easier for everyone if you knelt to him."

Phavo walked away, as he did so energy seemed to drain away from Gravu in Asriel's eyes. Ulg'pha shook his head "I wonder what face he will make if we win this." Gravu stroked his chin "that's if we win this Ulg'pha." Gravu then gestured "take the thin blood to one of the holding rooms the opening ceremony is starting soon." Ulg'pha nodded the guards began pushing Asriel away. Asriel looked back to see Gravu is now in discussion with Kar'iz. Asriel could see utter defeat lining Gravu's features. The guards moved Asriel closer to the centre of the area there were several doors guarded by people with raven masks wielding similar staffs to Phavo. As they approached they looked to Ulg'pha "another slave?" Ulg'pha nodded "yes another slave." The other guard chuckled "I wonder snake, has he been used? we hear strange stories with your folk." Ulg'pha hissed "are you here to insult the honour of my tribe!? If so I will kill you here!" The guard who insulted Ulg'pha shrugged " remember the rules snake no hostilities. Anyway your tribe won't win and finally we can make you prideful lot kneel."

Ulg'pha pushed Asriel towards the guards he turned away and left scowling. The guard looked to Asriel's hands "oooh.. a gothi. Interesting." A guard lowered his staff to Asriel's hands the chains then slid off "Asriel moved his hands, he felt his power returning but it was like a small spark. A whimpering light. Asriel recalled he felt far more powerful in the past he wondered how much of his power related to Meliva being with him.The guard laughed "oh look! the slave is weak! Here I thought we might of gotten a show this opening ceremony!" The guard unlocked the door and pushed Asriel in. The door closed and was locked behind him.

Asriel was in a small enclosed room it had small lights that lit it up dimly he could hear muffled chants or cheering. Asriel felt cold he was terrified he wondered if he could actually fight. Asriel rubbed his hands together trying to get rid of the stinging cold.
Asriel began thinking his lord is saved why does he need to fight? He could just die and that would be it. Asriel then felt a tingling sensation on his ears +blood of my blood you can't die. not yet.+ Asriel looked around that famliar sensation on his ears "who are you?!" The dim lights began flashing in the enclosed room he saw a shadow forming in front of him. It swirled together until it formed a humanoid shape.

The form was that of a man he folded his arms the shadows distorting slightly, Asriel stepped back "who are you?! what do you want?!" The shadow shook his head "+flesh of my flesh you must fight. you have no other choice.+" Asriel heard the shadows voice in his mind echoing it sounded aged and old. Asriel frowned "why? I have no reason to fight."

The shadow chuckled +you do, for your handler of course+ Asriel furrowed his brows in confusion "what do you mean?" The shadow dropped his hands +the herald and I have a vested interest in you succeeding. The herald would also be quite livid and torment your soul if you fail here.+ Asriel clenched his fists "tell me why should I care!? Also what do you mean by handler?!"

The shadow sighed +by handler I mean your precious master, you are his dog are you not? Dogs protect their owners you not fighting means you will fail in that. You don't want to be a bad dog do you?+ Asriel frowned he wondered how exactly his master could still be in danger Meliva is gone. The shadow then spoke like it read his mind +when you came back home I watched you for a time. The herald has been watching you for far longer. When you died we looked at your memories as your spirit drifted from your body. I am not a raven but it's clear to me and the herald that your lord will still die if you don't fight. If you allow the prophet to rein victorious it will be the death of your lord and the warband you treasure+

Asriel mouth's hanged slightly "what can I do? I can't fight not anymore.." Asriel's heart felt like it was being crushed. Without Meliva he had no power, no strength, no speed and his psychic power felt greatly weakened. The shadow cocked their head slightly +you assume the neverborn in your head made you stronger. It did not." Asriel stepped forward he said firmly "How?! I felt stronger! It also made me more useful to him!" The shadow shook his head +that's what your handler thinks flesh of my flesh. The neverborn gave you great strength but in the end you fell upon that power you did not earn it. You did not bleed, you did not fight or grow to gain that power." The shadow stroked his chin +that woman you dislike? what was her name? Isira? For example if you fought truly without holding back you would be the one to die. In the end all it did was stifle your development.+

Asriel raised his eyebrow "I was stronger than her." The shadow shrugged +truly? is that what you think? If she wanted to she could annhilate you and do you know how she got that way? Through her own hard work and the gods gifted her in kind. Even if she did it for such a petty wish+
Asriel chuckled "fine I could work for it but I am only human, compared to what? the demi gods that surround me. As I am now I would never be able to take any of the warband members on." The shadow laughed + Blood of my blood the gods love is equal they can easily take from the demi gods and give to you. You are still marked you are still at the starting point.+ Asriel touched his back he could not feel the brand but thinking about it he knows it's still there.

The shadow nodded +now you just have to prove it you are worthy of bearing it. During that time on the planet zatos you learned how to fight those skills are still there. Use them.+ Asriel looked to his hands they are shaking "that's easy for you to say.." The shadow walked over and gripped his shoulder his hand felt cold. As he gripped his shoulder he could feel the years of battle and death the shadow has seen he even saw a flash of him killing several armoured giants. The shadow spoke gently +for the sake of my legacy listen my child. Open your ears to your own fear and suffering. There is joy in that and as you cut your foes open your ears and heart to their screams. Now when you kill your foe? Bask in your superiority over them your pain and the pain of your enemy is a prayer. Start there.+

The shadow vanished, Asriel looked to his hands they are still shaking. He looked forward as a door in front of him opened he saw a bright light. Asriel walked forward and he came upon a open area shaped in a circle. It was an arena and on the stands sat masked people cheering and shouting.
Asriel scanned the crowd in the middle on a podium sat Phavo with two others. One wearing a bug mask with the fly rune engraved on the forehead. They wore a dirty crimson robe. The third was a burly man in chainmail wearing a wolf mask and in the middle he saw someone in crimson power armour. Asriel could tell right away that he is an Astartes. His face had scripture lined across it and he looked clearly disinterested.

Asriel looked down he could see several people are coming out of opened doors some looked terrified. One door across from Asriel was still closed. Phavo rose to quieten the crowd "we are gathered here in unison to watch this sacred ceremony! For the opening, our champion will spill the blood of these slaves to consecrate the grounds!" Phavo sat back down, the door finally opened and out came a man wielding two curved blades. He wore a raven mask and a red cloth that wrapped around his waist reaching his knees. The champion was bare chested his skin was tanned and he had blue tribal markings covering his body. Symbols of ravens and feathers. The man in the mask announced "Be joyful slaves! Your lives will go to the gods! I Voza! Will send you there!" Voza charged the first slave hacking him to pieces. The slaves scrambled but they had no chance he caught up to them and slashed them to pieces. Voza then ignited his blades stabbing another slave incinirating him.

Asriel watched his happen he raised one of his hands he looked to the back of it. His nails were still luminescent black. His hands were still shaking, Asriel looked to Voza cutting another slave. Asriel clenched his fist and charged towards Voza. Asriel tried to smile "open my ears to my own suffering and fear..." Asriel raced closer to Voza he is wearing no armour and had no weapons. A curious thought entered his mind. He felt a strange need mixed into the fear he wondered if he can fight the champion with his fists. Voza turned "This slave has a death wish!" Voza charged with both his blades as he got close he raised his arm to strike with his blade. Asriel steadied his breathing he was still scared but he felt.. excited. It was like a new experience was dawning on him.

Asriel watched the blade come down, Asriel dodged to Voza's side, Asriel felt that his movement was sluggish but he got clear of the blade. Asriel raised his fist and punched Voza in the side of his belly. Voza staggered back slightly clutching he coughed "yo- you dare!" Asriel can hear the crowd their surprise their disbelief he wanted to drink all of it in. He wanted to prove them wrong to see their faces when he kills their champion. Asriel stared at Voza, Asriel grinned he wanted to hear voza's death scream. Asriel charged voza again, Voza readied himself to strike, he is using the same swing this time his blades burned brighter, Voza shouted "Die!" Asriel recognised the strike so he dodged again in the same fashion. Asriel then moved in readying both his fists he struck Voza several times in the stomach.

Asriel then twisted and delivered a round house kick to Voza's face. Voza flew back to the ground dropping one of his blades. The crowd was now silent they wondered what was going on. Asriel picked up one of Voza's weapons. Asriel gripped it in both hands, he waited for Voza to rise he wanted people to see him die on his feet. Asriel can hear Voza gasping as he got up he took several paces back while breathing heavily "you shamed me slave no longer.." Voza began chanting a ball of blue fire built up in his empty hand. Voza threw the bolt of fire at Asriel.

Asriel breathed in his power was weak but he wanted to face it head on Asriel raised one of his hands to block the attack. A small shimmering shield shimmered over Asriel the ball of eldritch fire erupted against the shield shattering parts of it. The fire sheared parts of Asriel's flesh Asriel screamed. The flames dissipated, Asriel felt the burning sensation on his arms and his right bicep. The pain was pure agony. Voza stepped forward laughing "you could not even block that?! Such a weak gothi!"

Asriel chuckled the pain here felt different, Asriel still felt terrified but he was having fun at the same time. He did not know why, killing in the past with Meliva after a time felt boring, empty even. This was different, the fear, the pain, everything that is happening now excited him. Asriel laughed he laughed hard he looked at Voza, Asriel grinned wildly "let's do this some more! Let's go!" Asriel charged Voza, Voza readied another fire ball and threw it at Asriel. Asriel raised his hand again creating the shield.

As before some of the flames got past the shield shearing his skin the pain increased but he could not stop grinning. As the shadow said he had to win for his lord for his family he can't stop here. Voza kept throwing more fire balls again it crashed on the shield each time Asriel got burned a wave of pain came with it. Yet he felt invigorated. Asriel was closing in on Voza who in shock threw another, Asriel raised his hand again Asriel crashed through the flame. Asriel saw Voza trying to step back in surprise, Asriel shook his head "oh no you don't..." Asriel bound forward and speared his blade into Voza's neck.

Voza gagged holding the blade, Asriel drove the blade in slowly, Asriel then pushed the blade to the right cutting away at the right side of Voza's neck. Asriel twisted and bought his blade towards the left of his neck and removed Voza's head in a single swipe. Voza's head toppled to the ground.
Asriel gasped he smiled "I did it... I did it!" Asriel looked around in the stands everyone fell silent. Asriel chuckled if these people had something to do with his lord dying he will have to deal with them somehow. Asriel picked up Voza's head he shouted at the crowd "Look! I killed your champion! See! How the gods can quickly take away from the favoured!"

Asriel scanned the crowd he spotted Gravu and Kar'iz staring at him in a mix of wonder and horror. As Asriel held the head several guards wearing raven masks came into the arena they piled on Asriel. As they bound his hands in chains. The leader of the guard gestured "kill the rest of the slaves." Asriel was still grinning as they took him away.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/10 23:48:41


Post by: shinros


Asriel's work is never done.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/11 02:26:20


Post by: Dayknight



Very cool chapters. Loved the apparent demon removal by the inquisitor.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/11 15:30:16


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:

Very cool chapters. Loved the apparent demon removal by the inquisitor.



Spoiler tagging it.

Spoiler:
Thanks! I thought about it a long time on how to handle it the one problem is though for Asriel is that Adelram is still going to die for... some reason.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/11 19:51:36


Post by: Dayknight




Hey now! no spoilers!

Edit: was hoping that since aerial removed the demon that future wouldn't come to pass q_q


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/12 01:20:33


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:


Hey now! no spoilers!

Edit: was hoping that since aerial removed the demon that future wouldn't come to pass q_q

Hehehe just keep reading

A character said that might happen you just have to wait and see. I will spoiler tag it then. just in case for other people. Also have faith in little Asriel he might figure something out. Well maybe..


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/12 06:19:24


Post by: shinros


Chapter 40

Asriel looked around his cell it was a rather small room a room made out of iron, Asriel sat on the bench he moved his hands over his burns since losing Meliva it takes time to heal any wounds. Asriel wondered why they did not chain his hands like last time but in the end he found he better use this time to heal himself.

Asriel found that the time it took to heal himself frustrating he oddly missed the power Meliva provided but killing Voza was oddly fun he never had such fun fighting someone before. Asriel looked at the door he could hear muffled voices Asriel guessed the guards are discussing what just happened. Asriel removed his hand from his arm instead of a burn injury there was now smooth skin. Asriel sighed his mind drifted to the shadows words his lord is still going to die. The shadow said he has to keep fighting, if he fights his lord will live. What concerns Asriel is what is going to kill him Meliva is gone. There is no other threat. Asriel perked up his train of thought breaking as the door unlocked the person who enetered his cell he recalled seeing him at the entrance. It's the priest Phavo, Phavo stroked the bird he stared at Asriel "greetings thin blood." Asriel frowned "why does everyone call me thin blood? I have a name."

Phavo shrugged "you have a daemon's name thin blood, be glad that I am referring you to something." Phavo continued to stroke the raven "so I wonder.. why did you fight back?" Asriel raised his eyebrow "why do you wish to know?" Asriel could not trust him there is a chance he is related to the bird in the vision. Phavo chuckled "I know what you want..." Asriel's heart began beating rapidly "what do I want then? Tell me then." Phavo nodded "you wish to save your master yes? I can tell you how.." Asriel's eyes went wide "how?! tell me?!" Phavo tutted "what do you do when you want to ask something of someone?" Asriel clenched his hands "please tell me how to save him.." Phavo fed his raven a small treat from his pouch "well for one. Don't listen to the wraith, the spectre and when you fight again you must die. If you die your lord can be saved." Asriel rummage his hair in frustration he already died once how would dying again save him? Asriel looked up to Phavo "that "shadow" said that if I don't fight he will die?! Which is it?!" Phavo sighed "you see thin blood, the future fluctuates it changes but at times there is always a single constant. In this the constant is your master dies. Now if you don't heed the shadow and die in the next round there is a chance your master will live."

Asriel's mouth felt dry "what do you mean the next round?" Phavo chuckled "well.. you are being put in with the champions. You are now part of the lithasblot. As I said when next you fight you must die. If you die you might save you master. You could keep fighting and guarantee the death of your master if you decide to die there is a chance he will live. Think on my advice thin blood."

Phavo turned away and left the cell. Asriel covered his face with his hands he was at a lost of what to do. How could he save him? If Phavo is telling the truth if he fights his lord will die if he falls on the sword he could live. Asriel's mind felt like a mess he had no idea what to do.

Phavo left the cell he finds followers of the snake easy to manipulate all you do is find their want and twist it. Phavo smiled if he truly does care for his master he will die in the next round. All the routes his master has shown him the thin blood fighting would cause his masters death.
Phavo looked to his pet he stroked under it's beak "we have given the most champions to the baomer it will be time soon.. we just have to bring the snakes to heel..." Phavo's pet raven looked at him the raven's eyes bore into him. Phavo heard a voice a familiar voice "Phavo, has the sword been told of his fate?" Phavo nodded he spoke within his mind "yes master, he is at a loss on what to do." Phavo could sense his masters satisfaction "good, to ensure the ritual goes smoothly try to ensure another champion of change is offered to baomer." Phavo began walking his master is wise, intelligent and a master of fate yet Phavo had a nagging concern "master? what would happen if the sword wins?" Phavo could detect his master is considering his answer he spoke after a few moments "then may the gods have mercy on our souls if the sword wins. Ensure that does not happen Phavo, I will contact your other half working on the upper layer. He will draw them into the trap it will aid in the ritual."

His masters voice faded from his mind, Phavo reached his destination the Prophet's sanctum. Phavo sighed he must prepare for his anger, Phavo walked into the room. Phavo scanned the room ritual parchment and prayer parchments to the gods hanged from every corner in the room. Phavo could see the high gothi and gyoja of the Ulfr and deyja tribes in discussion with the prophet. Phavo tried to make himself small as he approached the prophet had his hands behind his back, the prophet spoke firmly "you said your champion will not die in the opening ceremony Phavo." Phavo licked his lips under his mask "Prophet I said he may not die but if he won he would rein victorious." The prophet sighed "I should have never relied on the visions of humans. they are blind to the gods prophecies." The high gothi of the ulfr tribe snarled under his wolf mask "he is a deceiver prophet! let me kill him! I Gar'bas will take his head!" Phavo frowned the members of the ulfr tribe claim the title of gothi and gyoja but are blind to the power of the gods. They claim it is a weakness, that using such power is not honourable it was why the king died.

Phavo could not help but smile both the Ulfr and deyja tribes were weak due to their centuries of fighting each other hence they both sent poor champions to each lithasblot. The prophet sundering their tribes made it even worse. The ormr held all their best fighters back to defend their territory. They were not strong but not weak either. Phavo turned to Gar'bas "tell me, what champions are you offering to the lithasblot? I hear boasts of how powerful your warriors are.. but I don't see any.." Gar'bas scowled "yet your strongest champion was killed by a thin blood! a slave!"

The high gyoja of the deyja tribe laughed while coughing slightly "what are you planning deceiver? You pressed so hard for the prophet to allow this.. we should of smashed the disgusting snakes aside forced them to kneel." Phavo sighed "prophet you recall I also said that doing the lithasblot puts the baomer in a state which allows it's power to be easily manipulated. Right now it's dormant if the lithasblot is completed and one of our champions win by right of the gods the baomer is yours to do with for a time." Phavo watched the prophet taking all of their words in he wondered if he was considering them. The prophet is a religious fanatic who thinks he above the traditions and rules. Phavo knew the rules were placed there for a reason you could subvert them but to break it is dangerous especially dealing with edicts from the gods.

The prophet sighed he turned his head to the high gyoja "Milisnar, we cannot kill the ormr they are required and the gods largely want them intact." Milisnar mumbled "fine. I will follow your word prophet." The prophet placed his eyes on Phavo "I do warn you Phavo, if we lose this... ceremony we will attack the ormr I will have no choice but to follow the word of the Ulfr and the Deyja." Phavo bowed "as you say prophet." The prophet waved him away "you are dismissed Phavo." Phavo turned and walked away the prophet then began a new discussion with Milisnar and Gar'bas. As Phavo exited the room he grinned as he quietly said "prophet you are another fly in the trap..."

Isabella stood in one the housing estates Izarus bought for the social gathering, Isabella gazed at the masked butlers and maids preparing the food and punch. The hall had red slik curtains hanging from the walls and grand religious icons of the god-emperor covering every inch of the room. Isabella frowned she still found such icons to be disgusting.

Isabella then felt someone wrapping their arm around her shoulder It was Izarus "dear Alivia why are you frowning?" Isabella cursed she had to rember her facial expressions the masks are only obscuring their upper face leaving the lower exposed. Isabella smiled "it's nothing my lord, I am just annoyed that the guests are not turning up on time." Izarus smiled "I can understand some of my camptirots do enjoy being late but do not worry by the end I will be stronger. Now I must check everything is in order." Izarus kissed Isabella he leaned back and smiled as he walked away.
Isabella took a small sigh of relief. Isabella looked to the table the servants have finished setting up the food she then pulled the pouch from her bosom and walked over to the punch. Isabella opened the pouch and sprinkled a tiny bit of the dust into the bowl. The punch turned from orange to pink for a split second and then back to it's original colour. Isabella grinned "now everything is in place."

Isabella looked to the entrance nobles were now entering they wore similar masks to Izarus and Isabella but all of them were styled differently to show their wealth and status. Izarus saw the nobles entering and briskly walked to the entrance and began greeting the nobles. A veild barb to one or praise to another. As the nobles entered the hall the music started to play. Everyone began mingling, Isabella watched the nobles talk they seemed far more relaxed to speak. Isabella recalled visiting their mansions they always held back what they wanted to say due to the fear of being watched.
Now they have a safe haven to back stab and cut deals but largely Izarus will benefit. Isabella smiled as the maids and butlers began serving the punch to the nobles. Even Izarus took a glass. Isabella had to control herself it's just the first dose, it won't be extreme. Isabella watched the nobles drink.

Isabella wanted to watch the effects carefully, if she listened she could hear conversations have began to divert slightly. Nobles talked of who they liked or fancied or the frustrations dealing with the scions and their poking into their business. Other's talked of since they are chosen the scions have no right to be telling them what to do.

Isabella picked out the pride, arrogance and lust within the words of the nobles. It was almost like a show. Isabella traced her eyes through the crowd again but in the corner stood a man. He wore robes that looked similar to those of a scribe of the church. Isabella could understand why Izarus would invite such a member since the ecclesiarchy holds great power, especially on this planet. Isabella could see the scribe is not drinking, he does not even have a glass. His body language shows experience in dealing with such events. His mask is plain sliver with a turquoise gem on the forehead. Isabella walked over she wanted to know why he is here and whether he is a threat. Isabella stood beside the scribe "so what do you think? Any possible partners?"

The scribe smiled "unfortunately no, I think all of these nobles are pawns in a greater game." Isabella raised her eyebrow he seems smart, Isabella wanted to prod further "why do you say that? Many nobles here hold great power." The scribe smiled "such power they hold is fleeting at best my lady, of course you of all people should understand that."

Isabella felt her mouth drying for some reason, Isabella raised her hand "a drink please!" A maid walked over with a tray holding several glasses. Isabella picked one up and handed another to the scribe. Isabella smiled "I am Alivia, I am with Sir Izarus of house Gaider." The scribe nodded "an old house." the scribe inclined his head slightly "I am Joseph Alpeh, a scribe of the grand church on the upper layer." Joseph swirled the contents of the glass, Isabella wanted him to drink to draw out information this man is too smart for his own good "so what do you mean I of all people should understand that?" Joseph smiled "you move as a master not as a mere mistress Alivia, lies are needed in our line of work." Isabella tried not to frown "what ever do you mean? Also I am no master I am just a humble lady of lord Izarus."

Joseph chuckled "I see, if you are truly just a lady you would not wish to visit the church in secret tomorrow without your lord knowing." Joseph took a whiff from the glass "very interesting just smelling the punch shows you are not just a lady Alivia..." Joseph then called for a butler "Butler!" The butler walked over Joseph placed the glass on the tray "Dear Alivia think on what I just told you, we can both benefit greatly." Joseph walked away with hands behind his back. Isabella scowled slightly she could not help but feel he was in control of that situation he is trying to draw her out. A small thought stuck her what if Joseph is like her? Could it be possible? Isabella placed her glass on the butler tray she walked away to mingle with the nobles.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/12 06:49:23


Post by: shinros


Chapter 41

Asriel heard the door unlocking two guards in raven masks walked in, the one on the right gestured "get up thin blood it's time to fight." the guard on the left placed his staff near Asriel's throat "try anything and your head will pop." Asriel slowly rose with his hands up the guards led him out of the cell. As he left the cell Asriel could see people have began staring at him they whispered to each other. Asriel could pick out some of it, some say it must be a fluke or wondering if he is chosen. Others insult him that he has no right to fight in the lithasblot. Asriel was lead to the centre of the arena to a familiar room. Two guards were guarding the door one held an old two handed sword. The guards bought Asriel forward the guard holding the staff to his neck said "the thin blood is here hand him his weapon." The guard gave Asriel the old sword they snickered slightly as they gave it to him the guards then opened the door and pushed Asriel in.

Just like before they locked the door behind him, Asriel looked to the two handed sword worn, nicked and abused. Asriel looked around the dimly lit room, Asriel wondered if the shadow will appear again. As he thought of the shadow the room's lights flickered +I am here.+ a swirling ball of darkness gathered in front of Asriel and took a humanoid shape.

Asriel clenched his eyes closed and then opened them he had a question "someone told me if I die my lord can be saved." The shadow's body distorted he hissed +who told you those lies?! Listen blood of my blood you have to win for my sake and the sake of our people.+ Asriel shook his head "I don't care about your people! For once can someone speak plainly! All I care about is saving my lord, saving my family nothing else!" The shadow grew silent he held his hands together +blood of my blood have you heard the term baomer?+ Asriel nodded "yes, what is it?" The shadow spoke firmly +it's the gift from the gods to help my people survive in this god forsaken city. The lithasblot deals with the baomer. It determines which champion will empower it+ Asriel raised his eyebrow "empower? what do you mean?" the shadow clenched his fists +the baomer has alignments, the deceiver or the god of magic is the strongest at the moment the snake is pushing back as hard as it can but it needs a champion to aid it. The fly and wolf were broken a long time ago hence they have flocked to the "prophet".+

Asriel stroked his chin in understanding "so I assume those in the ravens masks will do something bad if they win? To the baomer right?" The shadow nodded +yes! it's why the herald chose you as it's instrument! The bird of hrafn tribe is moving! The maggot lord of deyja and the blood drinker of Ulfr have already left the baomer. It has to be you for the sake of my legacy you must win!+"

Asriel felt a small amount of resolve building in his chest he lifted the old sword "I have to fight against champions now I take it? What can I do with a weapon like this?" The shadow chuckled +in your eyes the sword looks poor but now it's your companion. The soul of your weapon suffers with you it wants to win against those who have abused it open your mind to it let it drink your suffering and those of your enemies and it will grow with you.+ Asriel cocked his head slightly "grow? it is an old sword though.." The shadow shook his head +look to the greatest champions of the gods not all wield daemon touched weapons, some weapons they are their companions on their path to glory and they grow and change with them. Try it, open your witch sight see with the eyes of the gods.+

Asriel looked to the old sword Asriel gripped it in both hands, Asriel opened his third eye his witch sight he stared at the blade. Asriel looked over each nick, each chip and worn edge of the blade. Holding the sword he felt it's history the abuse it went through, being chucked aside and then given to someone who is likely to die. Being passed along without even a thought. The sword wanted to prove everyone wrong that it was still useful. That it could still cut, that it could still kill. That it could still fight and protect it's owner. Asriel closed his eyes, he felt an odd connection he could understand the sword he never thought about it until now. All the hardship he went through, all the suffering and pain for the people who he held dear. Even if they don't recognise it, even if they don't praise him and finally even if they cast him aside. For once in a long time Asriel wanted more, he craved it.

Asriel could see words being imprinted in his mind a name. Asriel spoke it slowly "Verja'allr, Asriel opened his eyes and smiled and looked at the two handed sword "that's your name right?" The shadow spoke he almost sounded joyful +to defend all, it fits you.+ Asriel looked up to the shadow "is that what the name means?" The shadow nodded + Indeed both of you give your all to defend what is dear to you. Both you and your weapon share a common purpose. Now it shall be put to the test.+

The door in front of Asriel opened the cheering the crowd can now be heard Asriel gripped Verja'allr, the shadow dissipated without another word. Asriel walked forward "let's wipe their smiles off their faces shall we?"

Asriel walked forward into the arena, there were several closed doors. Asriel looked up he could see far more people wearing snake masks in the crowd. Gravu, Ulg'pha and Kar'iz were also in the crowd. Asriel looked over to the podium, Phavo stood "the first.. "champion" a fool who embraces the daemons above and a thin blood!" The crowd jeered, Asriel could even see some of those who wore snake masks who are disgruntled shifting in their seats even if they did not jeer like everyone else. A door in front of Asriel opened and someone stepped into the arena they wielded a staff the head of the staff is shaped like a raven. They wore a crimson robe and their raven mask had blue jewels lining it. The champion released a spark of power from the staff and laughed, Asriel noticed their voice is female.

Phavo quietened down the crowd "the first champion of the raven god Ilis'parza! Gyoja of our tribe! Wielder of powerful magics and the lore of the gods!" The crowd cheered, the second door to Asriel's right opened another champion came out they wore similar attire to Voza. They wielded a single curved blade he raised his hands as Phavo announced him "Los'la! blade master and gothi! Many have been ended by his blade!" Finally the last door on his left opened out came a champion wearing the attire of the people who is making Asriel fight. Asriel looked the champion up and down they wielded a glaive along with wearing a golden skull mask with a snake engraved on the forehead. The champion slammed the haft of their glaive on the metal ground. Asriel watched gravu's people cheering as loud as they can over the jeers of the others.

Phavo announced the champion "Nis'dar of the ormr! Gothi and guard of the High gothi Gravu! She has N-" Asriel grew tired of the posturing he gripped the two handed sword and got into position he charged Los'la. Los'la scowled "you dare! you have no respect!" Los'la readied his blade. Asriel bought a Verja'allr downwards for a strike. Los'la moved his blade to parry knocking away his strike, Los'la laughed "what do you aim to do with such a poor weapon?!" Los'la moved in to attack Asriel, Los'la blade ignited with a brilliant blue light he made several quick strikes, Asriel raised his guard to block the attacks. Asriel grunted he found it hard to divert away the strikes the quality of the blade made it even harder. Los'la kept up his flurry of attacks until one got through Los'la slashed Asriel across the chest. Asriel staggered back his chest felt like it's on fire. Asriel dropped to one knee as pain sheared his chest, blood began leaking greatly from the wound.

Los'la pointed his blade "that is where thin bloods and daemons belong on their knees to their betters." Asriel panted his vision felt blurry he turned his head slightly to his blade "are you satisifed with this Verja'allr? I am not.. I have to protect him.. only I can do it. Only we can do it."
Asriel placed his hand to his wound he dug his nails in, Asriel gasped as he grit his teeth "this pain shows us we are still here." Asriel staggered to his feet "we have endured far worse!" Los'la scoffed "who are you talking to thin blood? Are you delirious?" Asriel lowered his blade slightly he steadied his breathing he reminded himself of his own pain. The hardships he faced getting to this point. The pain of living in the undercity, the back breaking work of slavery, the church and all the suffering he endured during that century waiting for his lord.

Asriel looked down to his weapon he thought of it's pain as well he gathered all of that together. Asriel felt every pore in his body being saturated with power a dark mist pooled from his wound. Asriel felt a strange warmth that someone was approving of his actions. Asriel charged Los'la again Los'la bought up his guard.

Asriel shouted "we will smash it aside!" Asriel bought weapon to do a upwards slash knocking away Los'la's guard Asriel hissed "suffer and die!" Asriel twisted making a downwards slash across Los'la's chest as his blade moved a black inky trail followed it. Blood pooled from Los'la's wound, Los'la staggered back. Asriel stepped in and impaled Los'la with his blade he drove his blade in and twisted.

Los'la gasped "i-impossible.." Asriel grinned "know as you die that a thin blood beat you! The gods can give and take away!" Asriel pulled his sword out of Los'la's chest as he crumpled to the ground. Asriel looked to his hand if he focused a small ball of dark energy pooled in his hands. Asriel touched his chest he could not even feel his wound anymore.

Asriel scanned the arena, he could see Nis'dar is swiftly dodging the blue fireballs that are being thrown by Ilis'parza eventually closing in and impaling her with the glaive. Nis'dar removed the glaive and twisted the glaive removing the head of Ilis'parza. Nis'dar levelled her glaive at Asriel "we don't need you thin blood! you will die here!" Asriel readied himself he thought back to the sensation he felt during his fight with Los'la. The dark mist poured from his body in greater amounts Asriel wondered if it could be manipulated thinking back to the small ball of energy in his hand. Asriel charged Nis'dar, Asriel had to be careful due to the range of her weapon.

Nis'dar tried to thrust her glaive as Asriel approached Asriel stepped to the right the glaive grazed his arm as he did so. The speed of the thrust was unnatural, Asriel guessed she is using her psychic powers to enhance her body. Nis'dar made another thrust, Asriel tried to draw on the well of power from before the darkness shifted protecting his arm from the attack. At most all Asriel felt was a sting, Asriel could tell he surprised Nis'dar she pulled her glaive back to make a downwards slash. Asriel dodged again but this time, Nis'dar stepped back with the attack. Asriel also took a step back he wondered how he would get in close she had a good defence and a mistake could be costly.

Asriel looked down to his sword "you understand my pain don't you? How about you show her it?" Asriel gripped his sword in both hands and got ready to make a sideways slash. This time he stood in place he gathered the shadows to his blade. Asirel shouted "we will kill anyone who seeks to harm him!" Asriel made a side ways slash a shock wave of black energy surged from his weapon in a line that charged towards Nis'dar. Nis'dar looked around the line was too long to dodge and the speed was too fast to duck. Nis'dar moved to block. The black energy passed through her weapon and slammed into her body to her shock. Nis'dar gagged and dropped to one knee she vomited a pool of blood.

Asriel moved in this is his chance, a chance he will not let slip by, Nis'dar tried to stagger to her feet while gasping her movements were sloppy. Asriel gathered energy in his right hand he could feel it building. He kept charging towards Nis'dar, Nis'dar made another thrust, Asriel focused the darkness moved to cover his arm. Asriel charged into the strike.

Asriel grit his teeth as the glaive clashed into his arm it was far more painful but the weapon did not pierce his skin. His action threw Nis'dar off guard, Asriel closed in Nis'dar coughed, blood leaking down the holes of her mask. Nis'dar dropped her glaive and tried to draw a knife due to Asriel's distance. Asriel removed his right hand from his weapon, Asriel formed a small ball of darkness in front of his palm. Asriel then released the energy the small ball ballooned consuming the right side of her chest and her right arm.

Purple eldritch lighting covered the giant orb of darkness, Nis'dar screamed as the energy dissipated, Nis'dar collapsed to the ground. Asriel looked at Nis'dar it was like her chest and arm were devoured it was gone. Asriel looked to his hand and grinned. Asriel felt he was getting used to manipulating this dark energy. Asriel raised his blade over Nis'dar who was twitching on the ground trying to get away.

Asriel bought down his blade right onto her heart and twisted, Nis'dar gagged coughing and finally died. Asriel looked upon the crowd who were now in silence. Asriel eyed Phavo, he could see him clenching his hands. Asriel spoke firmly to the crowd he announced "I don't care for your traditions, or your nonsense of daemons and thin bloods! I will win and I won't let anyone stop me! When it's dealing with them.. if anyone seeks to harm them they are my enemy!"

Asriel looked around the doors in the arena opened guards entered the arena with staves pointed at Asriel. Asriel lowered his blade "so you have come to escort me to my cell? Fine." A guard walked over to Asriel "your weapon." Asriel frowned "It's mine." The guard scowled "your weapon!" The weapons of the guards began to glow, Asriel sighed "fine." Asriel handed his weapon to the guard the shadows dancing over his body vanished.

As the guard gripped the blade handle, the darkness came back like a ravaging mist encircling the blade it assaulted the guard consuming his flesh. Devouring him as the shadows worked his screams were becoming muffled. The guard collapsed as the shadows dissipated all that was left was a pure white husk of skin and bone. The guards surrounding Asriel looked down to the worn at blade and edged closer to Asriel. One guard called out "what did you do thin blood! Answer!" Asriel shrugged "it doesn't like being handled by people who abused it." Phavo's voice echoed from the podium "let the thin blood keep the weapon!" Asriel turned to Phavo, he wondered what expression he is making under the mask.

Asriel bent down and picked up the blade. He gripped it tightly as the guards poked him with the staves to get him to move. Asriel stared at his weapon "we will save him from whatever future that will see him dead."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/12 19:00:33


Post by: shinros


Chapter 42

Isabella prepared her clothes, she wore a white dress with a small jacket. At this moment it was the most opportune time to visit Joseph since Izarus is out at the moment preparing the next social gathering. Joseph's words stuck with her if he is indeed like her they might be able to work something out the issue is what he would want in return. People like him always want something in return.

Isabella left her room and walked to the exit of the mansion, a butler was standing at the door leading outside. Isabella sighed in annoyance she approached the door the butler turned his head "Madam Alivia, may I ask where you are going?" Isabella turned to the bulter she smiled "to the church to pray, to reflect on my past choices." The butler inclined his head "very well, I am sure sir Izarus would be pleased you are taking such an outing." Isabella kept her face neutral she is surprised that she could leave the mansion unattended. Isabella asked "I can just leave? without anyone?" The butler nodded "yes, since the first social gathering he talks about you fondly he actually wishes you take to the church scriptures and embrace what the upper layer offers. I will let him know where you are when he returns." Isabella felt her heart swelling the fact Izarus trust her that much is a huge boon. Isabella inclined her head to the butler "I won't be long." The butler bowed "safe journey Madam Alivia."

Isabella exited the house, she could see the grand cathedral in the distance she briskly walked to the church. As Isabella walked the upper layer she felt nostalgic remembering a time back on Zatos where she could walk around freely visit largely any place that interested her. In the end the imperium easily snatches that freedom away whenever they need to. Isabella tried to search her heart for any sign of regret for accepting Asriel's offer she could not muster any. She enjoyed her life now every part of it her lord let's her do what she wants on the ship. At times she felt like a sort of queen or princess considering how many serfs want her time. Then the thrill of twisting nobles dragging them down tearing their lives to pieces. Isabella nerves began standing on end a shiver of pleasure crawled down her spine, Isabella quickly gulped and suppressed the need to dive into the sensation. Isabella chuckled she had to keep up appearances more so when walking outside.

Isabella took in the sights of the upper layer if many of the statues and icons were not devoted to the god-emperor it would be far more beautiful. Still after looking at them for a few more moments Isabella noted that Lord Adelram has created far more beautiful things than the statues of faith devoted to an absentee god. Perhaps when they come they would tear them down and replace it with something better. Isabella continued walking to the grand cathedral the church of the upper layer, as she approached she saw chanting priests singing hymns to the emperor. Prayer parchments nailed to their skin as they rang bells chanting words of praise. Isabella frowned she wondered how someone could display such fanatical devotion to someone who can't hear them. Who can't approve of them and their works.

Isbaella moved to enter the church avoiding the priests as best she can, Isabella wanted to avoid being preached to by a random priest. Isabella hurried up the steps into the church as she entered the hall almost seemed miles long. Rows upon rows of seats had pilgrims and nobles praying. The thing that stood out most of all were statues of the primarchs grand statues showing each of the 9.

Isabella stared at each of them when she joined Lord Adelram and was bought up to speed after they left Zatos she was shocked to hear that there are more primarchs. 9 more to be exact, Isabella wondered what Lord Adelram's father looked like. All she knows is that he is the most beautiful of the 18 far more than even Sanguinius. Isbaella looked around the church one more time she also spotted a mural that told a story. She was about to walk over to it until someone touched her on the shoulder. Isabella flinched and quickly turned around. A man stood before her he wore scribe robes his face looked somewhat aged, his skin was tanned in colouration he smiled "greetings lady Alivia, it seems you are not a normal lady after all." Isabella nodded slowly "Joseph I assume?" The scribe nodded "indeed, now before we speak further. Should we go to my study? I have a certain scripture I would like to show you." Isabella looked around considering the state of the upper layer there might be eyes and ears in the church.

Isabella smiled "I do want to hear a further study on the holy scriptures." Isabella gestured to the mural "I am sure there are many interpretations of the mural correct?" Isabella watched Joseph nod approvingly "indeed, I have the all said interpretations in my study right this way my lady." Joseph began walking to a side door, Isabella followed.

Joseph got out his keys and unlocked the large wooden door, Joseph held the door "after you." Isabella stepped forward into a corridor, paintings lined the walls along with religious scripture. Joseph entered and locked the door behind him, Joseph walked ahead of Isabella "My study is just a few doors down." Jospeh walked down the hall. Isabella eyed Joseph's back she wondered what he hoped to gain out of this. Isabella sighed and followed they reached a door that was near the end of the hall. Joseph got out his keys again the door had several locks. Joseph got to work unlocking the door, Isabella raised her eyebrow "so many locks for your study?" Joseph nodded "indeed all scribes have their own studies and considering the state of the galaxy and new laws passed by the primarch Roboute Guilliman scribes and pilgrims are travelling the galaxy trying to piece together the history of the imperium and locating lost artefacts." Isabella absorbed the information she did not pay much mind to war or what the awakened primarch is doing she was far more concerned with the events on Zatos.

Joseph finished undoing the last lock "of course there are many detractors in the church and other establishments in the imperium people would think that having a primarch would bring true unity but overall we learned how divided we are." Joseph pushed the door open and walked in Isabella followed. As Isabella entered the study books lined the shelves, scrolls were strewn over tables. Isabella walked into the middle of the study it had a strange smell. Isabella could tell right away that the study did not contain only religious texts she had a nagging feeling that among the scrolls and books held contents that would be frowned upon by the authorities. Isabella her eyes to Joseph's desk there was a box on top of it. A box with several locks.

Isabella heard the door close, Joseph walked up to his desk "all of the books and scrolls in this room is nothing compared to what I am going to show you Alivia." Isabella raised her eyebrow "I can tell you are not clean Jospeh, before we go further tell me what you want." Joseph smiled "whoever you are working for I want in. What I am about to show you opened my mind to the galaxy. The dark truth of the galaxy."

Isballa narrowed her eyes she had to tread carefully "I have no idea what you mean Jospeh. I am not working for anyone." Jospeh chuckled "fine, very well how about this. I will unlock this box and I will leave for a moment and let you bask in what I found." Isabella frowned "you are putting this in my favour Joseph. what do you truly want?" Jospeh grinned "as I said I want in but of course I have to show you that I am geniunie I am provding that." Joseph proceded to undo the locks on the box. He then walked away from his desk and walked back to the door. Joseph opened the door slightly "I am quite eager to hear your answer in a few moments." Joseph opened the door wider and closed it behind him. Isabella felt uncomfortable she felt like she was being manipulated still she was curious about what was in the box. One thing is obvious after this conversation Jospeh is like her he seems to lack direction but perhaps he is someone her lord can use.

Isabella walked to the desk she placed her hands on the box and opened the lid as she opened the box a bright blue gem greeted her. The brilliance radiating from the gem, the warmth on her skin. Isabella did not have the power of the witch but she could feel a swirl of energy coming from the gem. Isabella looked to her bracelet, she whispered pho'nur. Isabella's head reared up she stepped back a few paces. Her body began seizing up her nerves felt like they were on fire she gasped and as her fingers began twitching erratically. Isabella clutched her chest and closed her eyes tightly the sensation slowly faded. It now felt like someone was within her mind and she felt an odd sensation like she was embracing someone.

Isabella then heard his voice "you must of found something interesting if you are using this function Isabella. It will not last long be quick." Isabella slowly nodded she walked to the desk and stared at the blue gem again. Isabella felt her lord's wonder his need building to acquire it "such power.. such magnificence..I.." Isabella whispered "a scribe found it he wants to serve in return for the gem my lord."

Isabella sensed Lord Adelram's confusion "that's it? I see.." Isabella could feel her lord growing excited "touch it Isabella." Isabella frowned "I don't know what it does!" Isabella whispered. Her lord's displeasure was soon felt through her being he spoke firmly "do it." Isabella slowly reached for the gem with one finger as she touched it power surged into her body it was almost unbearable she removed her finger in an instant. Her lord began laughing harshly within her mind "wonderful! Dear Isabella you found a wonderful prize! This should make up for the previous failures of those two..."
Isabella felt a small sense of happiness building in her heart "I follow your will Lord Adelram." Isabella felt his approval within her heart. Isabella suddenly felt weak in the knees her breathing slowing her lord spoke gently "work with the person who provided this prize be careful though you can't trust him entirely he most likely wants more. Protect that gem at all costs when the nobles are corrupted we will attack. Do my will Isabella don't fail in this. If you succeed you can request your own reward if its in my power to provide it."

Isabella soon felt her lord's presence drift from her body, Isabella clutched her chest while panting "I won't fail.." Isabella stood up right she closed the lid covering the shining blue gem. Isabella walked to the door and knocked a few times. Isabella stepped back as Joseph entered again and closed the door behind him. Isabella could see Joseph looked somewhat smug "So lady Alivia, what did you think? Would it be a good offering?" Isabella did not nod she kept her face neutral "it's interesting I think we can work together but in return you will follow my instructions to the letter" Joseph nodded while smiling "simple enough I look eager to working with you."

Isabella assessed Joseph's features he is way too confident for her liking he has the face of someone who seems in utter control of the situation. Her lord was right she can't trust him entirely but she could use him for now.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/12 19:00:57


Post by: shinros


The plot thickens.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/12 23:25:41


Post by: shinros


Chapter 43

Phavo hurried to the thin blood's cell the final's are approaching perhaps he could convince him to stop. The thin blood kept winning again and again. Watching Gravu's disblief and horror turning to wonder nasuted him. Phavo cursed he thought the thin blood would take to his advice he wondered what the wraith said to convince him to keep fighting. Phavo stroked his pet he looked into it's eyes "what would master do?" A voice eoched in his mind in response "Do all I can to ensure that future does not happen." Phavo flinched "do all I can? What else can I do?" Phavo could hear is master musing "when I called you phavo and showed you the infinite beyond, your mind raced with possibilities with how to shift it. How to change it. Think about your situation a champion of your tribe is about to fight someone who is growing stronger, someone who is winning despite the hurdles thrown in front of him." Phavo nodded slowly he grinned under his mask "nothing says I can't empower our champion. It might shift fate back on track." Phavo sensed his master's approval "indeed, to add further there is some good news they have taken the bait."

Phavo's eyes went wide in surprise "really? what of the crimson ones then?" his master spoke firmly "they will move soon whether the sword wins or loses the great changer will ensure that. Overall we will benefit in the end if we ensure the correct future comes to pass." Phavo nodded slowly "I see. I understand master." His master spoke again his voice echoing in Phavo's mind "One more thing Phavo if the "prophet" dies. Proceed with the ritual no matter what happens. It would be beneficial if the "prophet" does it. It would empower it further due to the deception but we are getting to the point we should start taking precautions. "

Phavo's master voice soon vanished from his mind, Phavo was now at the thin blood's cell he could see a dark mist seeping from underneath. It's got to the point that their guards are now standing a few paces from the door. Phavo gestured to the guard "open the door!" The guard looked to the door and back to Phavo "High go-" Phavo hissed "open it!" The guard walked over to the cell as he approached the door the dark mist retreated back. The door opened the guard turned "High Gothi please be careful." Phavo tapped the haft of his staff on the ground a blue light emitted from it the darkness retreated as he stepped into the cell.

Phavo looked down to the thin blood holding the beaten blade downwards with both hands closing his eyes. The dark mist had purple electric currents going through it. The guard finally closed the door behind Phavo as the guard did so the mist darted towards phavo attempting to attack him. Phavo increased the power emitting from his staff pushing it back the memory of what happened to the guard in the arena was fresh in his mind. Phavo sighed "I am more powerful thin blood." The thin blood opened his eyes they were black like the void the colour drained away showing his blue eyes he grinned "can't blame me for trying." Phavo shook his head "has the wraith or shadow spoken to you since you awakened this.. strange sorcery?" The thin blood frowned "no."

Phavo looked at the mist if he used his witch sight he could see tiny ripples in the mist at the back of his mind he could hear the screams and lamentations of the champions killed. The loudest was the screams of the guard who picked up his weapon. Mixed with all of that he could sense an age of hardship, pain and loss. Phavo narrowed his eyes "so you are manifesting the suffering of souls." The thin blood sat up right "so that's what I am doing.. I see." Phavo cursed his curiosity got the better of him he had to be careful he did not want to reveal too much which would aid the thin blood in increasing his power. Still what is clear to him is that he is also devouring the suffering and pain of those he kills. Phavo read of gothi in the past among the ormr doing such a technique feeding off pain to strengthen themselves. There are even texts of the ormr fighting through horrific injury that would kill a normal man.

Phavo licked his lips "is there anything that would covince you to die? For your master?" The thin blood frowned "if you speak of what you aim to do with the baomer and how my death would save him then yes." Phavo swore under his breath how much has the wraith told him? Phavo spoke slowly "the baomer is important to us but have you ever considered why the shadow wishes you to win? Why does he want you to empower it?" Phavo guessed the thin blood hasn't caught on the lithasblot is a process of finding their king but the thing blood is right. Both he and his master has an aim for the baomer an aim far greater than finding a king that would never come. Phavo sighed "I guess there is no convincing you." The thin blood shrugged "I guess so, at least the shadow speaks more plainly."

Phavo turned away "good luck in the finals" Phavo said sarcastically. The thin blood spoke in return his tone mocking "I can't wait to see your reaction when your champion dies. The man I killed first was your best." Phavo grinned as he left the cell the thin blood will die for sure in the finals.
As Phavo left the cell he turned to the guard "tell Mos'ra that I want to see him." The guard inclined his head "I will get the word out High Gothi." Phavo nodded in satisfaction he left for his chambers within the arena.

Dycius rehearsed the words of hatred within his mind he stood in the chambers provided by the primitives they call him prophet a great leader who will bring them to fight the daemons above. Dycius smirked "they will be enslaved their true use is their strong children and securing the.. "baomer". " Dycius stroked his chin dark apostle Kraathal had him sent here to gather the primitives and perhaps to harness the power of the baomer. What he found odd is that the Kraathal wanted the tribes largely intact for some reason or another. Dycius guessed perhaps it's a test of sorts on his path to becoming a dark apostle. As first acolyte he should be able to sway the primitive masses easily to their cause. Even as an exalted daemon prince in the past Lorgar used his words instead of the mace to unite people in the true worship.

In the end what drew their host to the planet in the first place is the dark apostle's visions of the gem of the great changer. A powerful and terrible artefact. As they scryed the planet they also found a powerful force of the gods underground and he was sent to investigate. The humans have regaled him with details of their history but he had no interest most of their stories have most likely been distorted with time. All he cared for is uniting the tribes and giving them to Kraathal and if this baomer holds power that can also be given to the dark apostle. Dycius found this "lithasblot" perplexing but Phavo is pushing that winning could reveal the baomer's power to him. He allowed it because if he could discover the true power of the baomer and provide Kraathal with the primitives he would win great favour. Phavo provided the ritual used to manipulate the power of it but as with all things underground it is crude and primitive.

Dycius made the appropriate adjustments to the ritual and refined it. Dycius mind drifted to when their host will assault the planet once they attack the planet and take control he could make Phavo his personal slave. He is somewhat intelligent compared to the rest of the primitives and wields a small measure of power. As Dycius was thinking a ball of black fire appeared in front of him. The fire expanded forming a familiar face a face lined with the word of lorgar and a face bearing centuries of war, Dycius dropped to one knee "Dark Apostle." Kraathal spoke his voice distorting with each word "First Acolyte how goes your work?" Dycius inclined his head "I control three of the four tribes right now we are in the middle of a.. ceremony." Kraathal raised his eyebrow "ceremony? speak of it." Dycius nodded "It's a ceremony to determine their lost king and empower the baomer the structure we detected underground."

Dycius coutinued "the finals are approaching if the forces I control wins it would allow us to control the power of the baomer. The last tribe resisting is just using the ceremony to delay my armies marching upon them so I am keeping them alert. I overall prefer to make them bow with words instead of force but precautions should always be taken." Kraathal nodded approivngly "well done my first acoltyte. Now the reason why I contacted you.." Dycius brow furrowed slightly so he did not contact him to check on his progress. Kraathal continued speaking despite his reaction "the gods have shown me where the gem of the great changer is located, the issue is I see a vision of the snake coiling around it." Dycius perked up "someone found it first?" Kraathal nodded "yes so I am pushing our plans ahead. Secure the last tribe quickly our assault will begin in a matter of days. The tribesmen will be useful to us in the conflict."

Dycius clenched his hands slightly "what of the baomer?" Kraathal's image flashed "we are here for the gem. The baomer is a bonus. The gem holds far greater power first acolyte we can examine the baomer after we enslave the populace and secure the gem." Dycius lowered his head further "yes Dark apostle." Kraathal nodded "Coryphaeus Aszim and I will began preparing our forces for the attack. Be ready for our call first Acolyte." Kraathal's image dissipated leaving Dycius in the dimly lit room.

Dycius rose "so the assault is a matter of days.." Dycius then heard a knock on his door "Enter!" Shouted Dycius. As the door opened it was Phavo he bowed "Prophet. The finals are beginning.." Dycius looked down at the small man "win or lose we will attack the ormr right away." Dycius could see Phavo shifting slightly in surprise "Prophet you sai-"

Dycius shook his head "I changed my mind I need complete control and I doubt the ormr will bow with words even if we win the lithasblot. If we need to break them to kneel. Sometimes the mace is needed instead of using words." Phavo inclined his head lower "as you say prophet." Dycius made his way to leave the room "Come Phavo we have to see our victory."

Belaris sat in his office examining the testimonies of the gang members they captured after they were interrogated they were killed and reduced to dust. The gang have provided an accurate description of their new helpers. Belaris mouthed their names "Ashley and George.." George was the creature who fell on his blade the wounds inflicted on him would kill a normal man. It's reaction to his sanctified blade confirmed it. That being held a daemon within him and whenever daemons are involved terrible things happen. Belaris wondered if these two suspects are related to the gem he still hasn't located it. Perhaps if he could capture at least one of them it might shed some light upon it. All Belaris could do is set the undercity largely on lock down none can enter or leave without appropriate identification. What surprised Belaris most of all is that Gabriel agreed with his "request". Perhaps Gabriel wants to help in his own way even if it's for less virtuous reasons.

Belairs instructed the scions to keep on the look out for those matching the descriptions of George and Ashley. Belaris heard a knock on his door he called out "enter!" The door opened and he saw his three acolytes. Larissa, Fahim and Micheal. Larissa came forward and saluted she wore her scion uniform instead of gear belonging to the gang "inquisitor, we are scouring the undercity the arbites and scions are on the look out for the heretics." Belaris rose from his seat and walked to the middle of his room "good we can't allow them to slip by." Belaris looked to Micheal "did you find anything in the middle layer?" Micheal shook his head "no inquisitor I spotted no activity in the middle layer." Belaris sighed slightly "I see.." Belaris then bought his eyes to Fahim who was stroking his beard "I have noticed something strange with the nobles these past few days." Belaris raised his eyebrow "do tell Fahim what have you noticed?"

Fahim nodded "for one people have stopped asking for the cleansing ritual." Belaris furrowed his brow "considering how obsessed these nobles are with the appearance with purity that is strange. Is there anything else?" Fahim nodded "yes I hear whispers of.. social gatherings. even among the clergy." Belaris folded his arms "people whisper of it?" Fahim nodded "yes in my experience if people have to whisper about something then it must be a secret. Secrets normally hold heresy." Belaris nodded in agreement "we are of two minds Fahim. Have you investigated this further?"
Fahim nodded slowly "yes but it was not fruitful I have tried to prod about it but it's leading no where. When I get hint of a possible location and search the premises with scions it's empty. A plain empty house." Belaris drew in the information it's likely getting to these social gatherings is extremely controlled. Belaris also mused that they may have several housing estates being used as red herrings. Fahim has done some good work bringing this to his attention but at the moment they are running in the dark.

Belaris looked up to Fahim "you have done well keep your ears and eyes open tell me if anything changes." Fahim inclined his head "yes inquisitor." Belaris was about to dismiss them until Micheals eyes rolled back he collapsed to the ground and began thrashing. Belaris cursed "Fahim hold him down! Larissa hold his head!" Fahim and Larissa got to work holding Micheal down.

Micheal began speaking "the horned head of hatred leers over the prize.... the cursed children of the emperor react racing towards it.." Micheal began calming down his breathing steadying. Belaris nodded "you can release him." Larissa and Fahim moved away their hands. Fahim looked to Micheal "Should we take him to his room?" Belairs nodded "Yes, Larissa please help Fahim." Larissa looked to Micheal she silently moved to wrap one of Micheal's arms over her shoulder. Fahim did the same to the other side they both picked him up and left Belaris' office.

Belaris covered his mouth slightly "the horned head of hatred.. and the cursed children of the emperor..." Belaris heard a beep from the communication device on his desk. Belaris walked over and sat down. He could see it's a secure line it had the tag 666. Belaris slowly pressed the button the screen fizzled until it displayed a Astartes in sliver armour. It was a librarian of the grey knights his voice was smooth as his voice came through the device "Greetings inquisitor, I am Librarian Rafael of the 12th brotherhood lead by Grandmaster Ranald Talal. We are in orbit on a cruiser along with a strike team." Belaris nodded slowly "Greetings Librarian Rafael, how goes the attack on Zatos?"

Belaris could not tell what expression, Rafael made under his helmet but his eye lenses shimmered slightly "it is progressing well, now the reason why I am contacting you." Belaris leaned back "the grandmaster saw the gem correct? He sent you in the event the enemy finds it." Rafael nodded "yes and it has been found, inquisitor whatever forces you have prepare them. If you have allies to call, you must call them now." Belaris thought back to Micheal's fit he did not realise he was speaking out loud "the horned head of hatred and the cursed children of the emperor..." Rafeal spoke firmly his voice cold devoid of emotion "The word bearers who summon the vile predators of the warp and the emperor's children if they locate the gem what manner of perversions would they commit with it? The events of Zatos are linked to them inquisitor."

Belaris closed his eyes and opened them "thank you Librarian Rafael I will prepare accordingly." Rafael inclined his head slightly as the communication ended. Belaris looked to his screen he began typing rapidly preparing the message to be sent to the salamanders. Just as he was about to send it his finger hovered over the button to send "this planet will soon be plunged into war.... This age of unending war continues."

Belaris pressed the button

Request sent to Adeptus Astartes chapter Salamnders

pending...

pending...

Request accepted

Adeptus Astartes Salamanders on route to Athor


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/13 00:53:56


Post by: shinros


Just to let you know the next few chapters are gonna be well.. longer. Big stuff is going to happen.

Is Asriel going to save Adelram? Are the word bearers going to claim the gem? Will the imperium stave off the assault or will the emperor's children claim the gem for themselves?

Find out next time in Harbingers of sin!

Yes I am terrible for doing that I could not help it


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/13 03:07:10


Post by: shinros


Chapter 44

Asriel opened his eyes the dark mist was drawn back into his body after awkaneing this power he began exprimenting in his cell and on the champions he fought. The good thing about fighting the champions is that his movements are starting to feel less sluggish. He does not feel as powerful as he was with Meliva but he felt he was making progress. Asriel thought on the conversation he had with Phavo he must not be planning something good he is desperate to get him to do what he wants. When Asriel thought on the shadow he did not have to admit his help is convenient the only reason why he is going along with him is because he is far more open about the situation.

Asriel thought back to the first conversation "he and the herald have a vested interest in him succeeding.." Asriel said to himself Asriel's mind drifted to the herald he wondered what the herald is or who he was. Asriel heard the door unlocking this time the guards no longer enter "thin blood get out it's the finals." Asriel rose and walked out of the cell. The guards remained a few inches away from Asriel "thin blood get moving!" Asriel slowly walked towards the centre, the guards walked with him as he reached the middle there were no insults or belittlement. They simply opened the door to let him in. Asriel walked into the dimly lit room that leads into the arena. The shadow has not appeared since the time he awakened this power. Asriel stared at the closed door in front of him waiting expecting for him to show up. Asriel then heard a familiar chuckle +I am here I have been watching I felt no need to speak+ The shadow formed again in front of Asriel he nodded +I have waited for so long. Waited for one such as you.+

Asriel frowned "waited for me? for what?" the shadow raised his fist +for the sake of my legacy I have prepared you accordingly once you win you can save your master+ Asriel crossed his arms "how will I save him? Can you tell me what is going to kill him?" The shadow nodded +you see blood of my blood the servants of the great changer wish to bring forth the great raven of the hrafn tribe. It will consume this planet in blue fire and twist everything to it's whims.+ Asriel mouth went agape "So how will I stop it? I assume the great raven is a greater shard?" The shadow responded +yes, if you win you will empower the tree with your essence stopping it for a time but if you prove you are worthy you can take the power of the baomer for yourself and prevent it's summoning. You will emerge and ascend to greater heights none will stop you.+ Asriel nodded slowly "So me taking the power of the tree will keep this greater shard from killing my lord?" The shadow nodded +yes win this and the life of your lord is secured+ Asriel gripped his blade "then I will win." the shadow began dissipating dissolving his voice echoed +you must win...+ The door in front of Asriel opened. Asriel could hear the cheering of the crowd, Asriel walked forward into the arena. The cheering died as he entered as always. Asriel got into his battle stance, the door at the other end of the arena opened.

Phavo got up "the champion of hrafn! Blessed to kill the thin blood! Mos'ra!" What came out of the door shocked Asriel. People did not cheer when they saw what came through the door. A half man and half avian creature stepped forth he squawked "I will kill you thin blood! I have been blessed to kill you!" Asriel stared at his opponet his head was that of a bird with horns, his skin was light blue with orange feathers lining his chest and his legs were also avian in form. Mos'ra drew a curved blade that shimmered with blue fire his beak moved into an unnatural grin "the blood of the great changer flows through me thin blood.. I will tear out your heart!" Mos'ra charged his speed unnatural, Asriel raised his guard, Mos'ra bought down his blade for a vicious strike. Asriel grunted the weight of his strike was heavy. As Asriel blocked his attack Mos'ra reared his head back to strike him with his beak. Asriel quickly dodged.

Asriel steadied his breathing Asriel then summoned the mist of darkness it encircled his body and blade. Asriel charged he bought his blade down towards Mos'ra. Mos'ra parried their blades clashing, ringing as they matched each other strike for strike. Asriel could detect Mos'ra is faster, stronger even a few cuts were getting past his guard the darkness moved to protect those areas but the pain sheared his body. Mos'ra's sword has been touched by a psyker. Asriel grit his teeth and bared the pain this pain is nothing compared to the chance of losing him.

He already died once for him. Mos'ra is stronger and faster Asriel knew there is only one way he could win to get an opening to kill Mos'ra. Mos'ra moved to imaple him Asriel opened his guard to let the attack through. The attack crashed into his chest the dark mist protected the area but the pure agony he felt almost caused him to fall to his knee's. Asriel gave a weak grin doing such an action gave him the opening he needed. Asriel thrust his blade forward impaling Mos'ra. Mos'ra squawked loudly as Asriel drove his blade into his body. Mos'ra began clawing at Asriel's back and pecking violently on his shoulder. Asriel grit his teeth due to the amount of attacks the mist could not protect everywhere at once Mos'ra claws dug into Asriel's back.

The mist was protecting his shoulder from Mos'ra's beak. Mos'ra squawked loudly "thin blood everyone will bow to the great changer! It does not matter what you do! Everyone are his pawns! The great raven will fly over all!" Asriel twisted his blade, Mos'ra began going limp Asriel hissed "you will not be there to see it." Mos'ra slid off his blade and crumpled to the ground his beak wide open his body twitched slightly on the ground as blood pooled on the ground. Asriel panted he scanned the crowd, Asriel smiled "I won.. he is safe now.." Guards entered the arena staves raised.
Asriel prepared himself to be taken away instead the guards inclined their head slightly "king your tribe awaits you." Asriel raised his eyebrow "what's going on?"A guard pointed to the door they came through "your tribe awaits you king, they will prepare you for the baomer." Asriel confused slowly walked to the door he looked to the crowd one more time all were in stunned silence.

He could see Gravu, Kar'iz and Ulg'pha are now leaving the crowd. Asriel looked to Phavo he seemed relaxed Asriel did not like it. As Asriel walked into the waiting chamber and back into the arena entrance area. There were many members of Gravu's tribe waiting some that did not wear masks were confused on what to do.

Eventually Gravu arrived with Ulg'pha and Kar'iz. Looking at Gravu for some reason Asriel did not see the weariness he held Asriel's arm "th- I mean my king you might be our chance..." Asriel frowned "your chance at what?" Gravu nodded while smiling "you might be the one.."
Ulg'pha came forward and protested "people have said that about many winners of the lithasblot in the past High gothi." Gravu turned his head to Ulg'pha "I know, I just have a good feeling this time." Kar'iz nodded in agreement "I agree, the herald would not tell us to have him fight if he is not important." Gravu gestured to the entrance "come my king we will prepare you for the baomer.." Asirel thought on the shadows words he must take it's power to save his lord. Yet part of him felt anxious, Asriel gripped his hands together he can't doubt now he has to press forward for his sake.
Gravu's tribe took Asriel back to their home, when Gravu announced he won the lithasblot all their tribe looked to Asriel in wonder. Afterwards they took him to the snake statue and Gravu began painting tribal markings on Asriel's body they gave him a sheath for his two handed sword also.
Finally Gravu put the war paint on Asriel's face Gravu inclined his head "my king if I may ask what is your name?" Asriel nodded "my name is Asriel." Gravu raised his head "we could do a naming ceremony your grace discover your true name." Asriel shook his head "this is my name. A name that was given to me by someone important." Gravu inclined his head again "very well your grace." Asriel watched the tribe begin singing and dancing.

The celebration almost lasted an hour Gravu then announced "we will make the pilgrimage to the baomer! Bring the coffin!" Out of one of the houses a group of tribsman came carrying a coffin. Gravu turned to Asriel "my king we must go to the baomer." Asriel nodded "very well."
More than half the tribe followed Asriel and Gravu. At the front with Asriel were also Ulg'pha and his guard along with Kar'iz. The tribesmen holding the coffin also came with them on the pilgrimage to the baomer. Asriel wondered what the coffin was for but he had to focus the shadow said he had to absorb it's power. To prevent the great raven from manifesting. They walked the tunnels for almost about an hour until they reached a tunnel leading into a large corridor.

On the wall of the large corridor is a giant long stone slab with painting upon it. Asriel raised his eyebrow it was a mural. Gravu stopped at the first image showing all four tribes stabbing and slashing each other. The painting was crude compared to the one Naberius showed him. Gravu announced "once all four tribes warred for land for slaves and resources! It was a time of great champions and bloodshed!" They moved to the next image what Asriel saw was pictures of space ships and the tribes pointing upwards. Gravu continued the story "Then the daemons came from the skies! They demanded we give up our traditions! Our gods! Our Lives to them!"

As they walked to the next image Asriel's eyes went wide he saw crude paintings of purple giants, one was larger than the others the giant had long white hair. A symbol a familiar symbol hovered over it's head the symbol of his lord's legion. Asriel tried not frown he did not know what to say. Asriel could see the giant with white hair leering over the tribesmen shaking his fist Gravu shouted "The white haired daemon finally looked upon us! It called us disgusting! It called our gothi's and gyoja's flawed!" Asriel could see the tribes nodding agreeing with Gravu or cursing the white haired giant in anger. They walked to the next image it showed a hunched group of people approaching the purple giants. Gravu pointed at them "these are the betrayers! the lower caste! They betrayed their families and homes! Instead of working and rising they sold their souls to the daemons! Their leader was none other the sister to king himself!"

Asriel compared it with the mural Naberius showed him he guessed that the lower caste were treated harshly. Such is the ways of chaos there is no mercy or forgiveness for those who are weak of body or mind and hence they threw their lot in with the imperium when they arrived. They continued to the next image the purple giants along with the white haired "daemon" are slaughtering the tribes men. Out of the tribes men one had a black halo. Gravu pointed "The king saw his tribesmen being slaughtered! To this day it's not clear which tribe he was from but he moved to unite us! To push back the invaders!" Asriel held his hands together thinking. He wondered what made the king think he stood a chance against a primarch. Still if this is correct he found it ironic that the people above owe their lives to a primarch who now embraces chaos.

Gravu moved forward and gestured to the next image, Asriel followed the next image shows the king slashing and killing several of the purple giants Gravu spread out his arms "the king assaulted the purple giants! he was touched by one of the four!" Asriel folded his arms he recalled his lords tale the primarch of the emperor's children does not take kindly to those who harms his sons. As they moved to the next image he was right the giant with white hair was now flowing violently in the mural. He could see the primarch of the emperor's children literally destroying the king with his fists. Asriel wondered which one is right the one in the church it had him impaling the king with his sword and here the primarch is annihilating him with his fists.

Gravu announced "the king could see our people were bleeding! he sought to kill the leader of the daemons! Perhaps if he could defeat him our people our traditions could be saved! Yet it was not to be the leader of the daemons savagly killed our king!"
Asriel stroked his chin thinking he wondered if the truth is somewhere in the middle. Asriel then noticed the story started to diverge afterwards. The next image was the tribes taking away the bloodied body of the king. The tribes were standing over the body of the king while holding out a black heart while the giants were in the distance preparing to attack them again.

Gravu frowned "that is when the guardians of our tribe spoke to us they told us to take the heart of the king and plant it! When the heart was planted into the ground the daemons attacked us! They killed everyone who got in their way!" Asriel crossed his arms thinking what was the relevance of this part as everyone walked to the next part of the mural what it displayed were the purple giants and the lower caste shaking hands and little versions of the tribes people were walking in chains. Gravu pointed at the image "the daemons gave control to the lower caste! Both of them killed everyone who fought in the war and then they enslaved their children!"

Asriel could now see they are moving to the second to last part of the mural Asriel looked at it. The mural displayed the chained tribe people building a city. As the city was built he could see people on layers the little tribes people on what Asriel assumed to be the undercity. While below that at the bottom were little tribes people with black halos. Looking upwards Asriel saw the hunched people living on the middle and top layer. Asriel was actually quite curious about this part he listened to Gravu carefully. Gravu spoke with a mix of anger and sadness "when the daemons and the traitors forced the young of the tribes to build their city there was schism. Some feared death and embraced the ways of the daemons and we the true people moved underground waiting biding our time for revenge. The lower caste grew fat from the suffering of our people and lived above tearing apart our culture our traditions for the daemon's teachings and religions. Those who embraced them the lower caste stole their names and forced them to adopt their language! We hold to our traditions! Never forget that!"

Asriel thought on what Gravu just said it's clear that those in the undercity are the ones who adopted the idea and tenets of the imperium to their detriment. Asriel even guessed that Gravu is telling this story in low gothic for his sake than anything else. Asriel assumed normally the tribes people spoke in a mix of low gothic and dark tongue even in the past hence why the lower caste could find an accord with the imperium. Asriel stared at the section of the undercity in the mural Asriel frowned the people of the undercity feared for their lives to the point that they allowed the lower caste to take their names, their teachings and history. It was completely removed from them leaving them as husks. One fact also finally made sense to Asriel the naming day is the final nail in the coffin that is the point they have fully given up on what and who they were before.

Finally they were at the last image the tribes people are now wearing masks and are no longer small they surrounded... a tree. A figure was floating in the air with a black halo Asriel blinked it was not awe but it's the possibility that it's likely the baomer is the tree from Noxus' vision. Gravu looked up to the last image of the mural and then to Asriel Gravu said "We the true people of Yaretzi the ones who never gave up their traditions or bowed to the daemons. We owe our lives to the baomer. The four guardians of the tribes lead the true people to the baomer they told us the tree grew from the planted heart of the king. The baomer will give us clean water to drink on this level and food to eat. The guardians decreed that we must do lithasblot every ten years to give back to the tree, the guardians added that if the offering is found worthy they will rise as the new king to lead us on a campaign of vengeance against the daemons. Especially the daemons who destroyed our people!"

Asriel's mouth went dry they seek to offer him to the tree but the shadow said he would have to take it's power. If the story is meant to be believed if he becomes the king they expect them to lead them to kill the emperor's children. Asriel clenched his hands The tribemen began chanting and shouting Gravu quietened them down "I will like to add something." The tribesmen looked at gravu confused. Gravu looked to Asriel "King you shall be offered or you will rise to lead us.." As Gravu said those words Ulg'pha walked towards and hit Asriel in the gut with the haft of his glaive. Asriel dropped to his knee's due to being winded. Gravu looked almost sad Gravu pleaded "please be the king we require Asriel." Ulg'pha then smacked Asriel across the face knocking him out.

Asriel felt groggy he had a massive headache he opened his eyes he was lying in the coffin his hands and legs were bound by dark chains. Looking upwards he saw the tree from Noxus' vision all the fruits were exactly the same. Asriel could hear screams and chanting as people picked from the tree the fruit that shined and was pristine. He could hear the groans mixed with the chanting. Gravu stepped over and looked down to Asriel Gravu then looked up and then turned his head Gravu said "seal the coffin." The top was placed over it, Asriel was now consumed in darkness. He felt the coffin moving and then being dropped Asriel grunted in pain. Asriel then heard soil being placed on top of the coffin. Asriel began panicking he slammed the coffin trying to free himself. Asriel panted he tried to summon his psychic power anything he could muster he cursed. The chains its the chains limiting him.

Eventually the sound of soil being thrown on top of him stopped. Asriel's heart sank did the shadow deceive him? Is his lord going to die? Asriel was at a loss of what to do. After a moment Asriel heard a cracking sound. Then a sharp pain in his back Asriel felt something piercing his back. The pain was horrific After a second the sound increased and he soon felt several pointed objects stabbing his back.

Asriel began to feel weak, that something or someone is draining him of energy. Asriel could not keep his eyes open his eyes slowly slid shut.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/13 03:08:18


Post by: shinros


So yeah which history is true? The upper layer or the tribesmen? Or perhaps it's in between?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/13 05:49:22


Post by: shinros


Chapter 45

Asriel blinked he was standing in darkness he looked around he wondered where he was the last thing he recalled was the stabbing sensation and being buried alive. Asriel looked at himself his sword was still on his back in it's sheath yet Asriel felt scared, terrified he wondered if he failed to absorb the baomer's power. Asriel called out "shadow! Wraith! Where are you!" Asriel clenched his eyes shut, until he heard him +I am here..+ Asriel turned he saw the shadow but now he wore a strange clawed gauntlet with a snake rune on the back of it's hand the gauntlet went up to his elbow. If he was not wearing it he would not be able to spot him in this place. Asriel wondered what he should ask what he should say "tell me what is going on right now?"

The shadow opened it's hand +you must come with me. you will ensure my legacy continues and you will achieve the power necessary to secure your wish+ Asriel reached out his hand as he did so he saw a blue wisp floating by. The wisp hovered next to the shadow it released a wave of light enveloping the darkness in a bright light. Asriel quickly covered his eyes.

When Asriel opened them he was now in a white room he could clearly see the shadow. The shadow hissed +leave deciever!+ Asriel looked to the small blue wisp it expanded and took shape eventually turning into an Astartes. Asriel surprised said "who are you? why are you here?"
The Astartes slammed the haft of his staff on the ground Asriel could see his armour was light blue he had a purple cape. Strange ritual parchment lined his armour also his helmet was like a strange crown mixed with yellow and blue. The Astartes spoke "to prevent you from doing something foolish." The Astartes sighed "I wish it did not get to this point..." Asriel furrowed his brow "what do you mean?" The Astartes inclined his head "let me introduce myself.. you may call me Izel." The shadow roared +don't listen! He seeks to draw you away from the true path!" Izel scoffed "what would you know of fate? Broken king?" Asriel wiped his hand down his face "I just.. want to save my lord. That's it! All these paths! Destiny! I don't care for any of it!"

Izel spoke gently "I can understand, you move to prevent a terrible fate but doing so always carries a cost." Asriel narrowed his eyes "so tell me then how can I save him?! Speak plainly?!" Izel nodded "very well. You removed the neverborn from your body due to fear of losing control? Correct? Well you were right to do so the neverborn was plotting to kill your lord. Actually it wanted revenge against the whole warband." Asriel nodded slowly "I see, yet people have told me he is still going to die." Izel raised his staff "yes and let me show you why." Small blue lights appeared in the white room they showed pictures events. Izel gestured to one "your lord will be killed in the coming conflict that is the constant of this time thread. The neverborn within you would of done it during this time if you accepted the lord of sin's offer. Also you are a smart child for refusing to sleep every time you slept the neverborn slowly took your mind."

Asriel looked at the vision it was exactly the same as Noxus' vision he could see himself stabbing his lord through the throat. Izel discarded the ball showing that image "now you prevented that fate you have created branching points. Still no matter which thread I look at your lord dies in the conflict for various reasons apart from one" Izel drew forth another ball showing the picture of his lord being shot to pieces in a church "in his hurry to claim his prize he does not think clearly and due to the stress of your... death the prize has become his true focus." Asriel held up his hand "yet the shadow tell's me that the minions of the great changer wishes to use the power of the tree to bring forth the great raven!" Izel nodded "that is the truth, phavo is working on that." Asriel eyes went wide in surprise "so you just admit it then?!" Izel cocked his head slightly "yes."

The shadow interjected +see blood of my blood! You can't listen to him!+ Izel casually shrugged "Wraith enough of your manipulations, I never said that the great raven would cause his death." Asriel blinked "what do you mean?" Izel drew another ball a picture showing a greater shard of tzeentch emerging from the tree as he begins to twist everything around him. Largely the populace turn to tzeentch worship and the planet is claimed by the great changer. "if you refuse the shadow, phavo would complete the ritual the great raven would come and the planet would belong to tzeentch. You will die due to the tree draining your essence but I will ensure the great raven gives your lord the chance to leave the planet alive."

Asriel frowned "chance?" Izel nodded "yes I gave a great prize to the changer I am held in high regard also." Asriel shook his head "that means my lord could still die!" Izel sighed "I assume your lord is not foolish enough to take on a greater shard of tzeentch when empowered by almost ten thousand years worth of souls." Asriel chuckled "then you don't know them Izel. They would fight."

Izel shook his head "As I said if your lord refuses the offer it's on him. He will die." Asriel looked down slightly then back up "so he could die still if I follow you, right I wish to ask you a question." Izel nodded "go ahead." Asriel crossed his arms "what are the odds of the great raven refusing you?" Izel fell silent Asriel was stuck with a greater shard for near a century. Neverborn have their own concerns and needs. It's clear to Asriel if a neverborn has everything it needs why does it need to listen to anyone? Izel spoke slowly "no I-" The shadow laughed interrupting Izel +see my child? He does not know! He is lying!" Izel scowled "tell me wraith! Will you ensure the life of his master!?" The shadow responded his tone flat +yes+ Asriel looked to the shadow "so following you my master will live?" The shadow nodded +indeed take my hand my child and ensure my legacy+

Izel shouted "no! Fine! Do you want to see what happens?! If you accept him?!" Asriel stopped "what will happen?" Izel grabbed a ball and expanded it displayed Athor covered in a blanket of darkness. Izel pointed his staff at the image "that is what will happen if you accept the shadow!" Asriel held his hand up "I don't see my master dead in that one though. Can you show me his body?" Asriel could see Izel is in disblief "All I sense is pain and suffering from that thread!" Asriel frowned "yet you did not sense death I take it? Izel fell silent, Asriel looked away "then I know what my decision is." Izel called out "n-" Asriel grabbed the shadow's gaunlented hand. The darkness came back consuming Izel. The darkness swirled until finally they stood in a field of grass. It was also somewhat sunny.

The shadow pointed in the distance on a hill a giant pink mist was in the distance. In between them was a field of daemonettes lazying about on the field.

Asriel looked in the direction he turned to the shadow "why are you pointing?" The shadow turned his head to Asriel +you must cross the field and reach the herald+ Asriel looked to the daemonettes "they will attack me won't they?" The shadow nodded +yes this is a test to see if you are worthy the herald is watching don't disappoint him+ Asriel gulped "but they would tear me to pieces.." The shadow shook his head +this is your spirit through the tree you are connected to the realm of the gods. We are walking within the realm of the great serpent. What the daemonettes will attack is your spirit they will take parts of it away when they attack you. Who knows what the effects will be.+

Asriel asked the shadow one final time "if I do this. If I meet the herald my lord won't die?" The shadow took a moment to answer he placed his gauntlted hand on his chest +yes my child I will be waiting with the herald on the other side.+ The shadow flew into the air and moved towards the hill.
Asriel looked at the swarm of daemonettes he clenched his hands and he ran. He ran with all his might as he approached the daemonettes all of them perked up to attention sensing prey. They snapped their crab claws and moved to attack Asriel. Asriel barrelled through one knocking them back, two slashed him in the back. Asriel gasped in pain the pain soon faded but suddenly he felt like a part of him was missing. Asriel pushed on more crab claws flicked out slashing him again Asriel screamed in pain. He could not think properly. His mind raced he thought of the warband his family he thought of.. Asriel could not think of any of them.

Asriel tried recalling their names he was drawing a blank he can see their faces picture them yet he could not attach names to them. Asriel's heart began beating rapidly he shook his head he had to focus all he knew is that he had to keep running in order to save him. Asriel crossed quarter of the way he wondered why the daemonettes are not piling on him. They are slashing him in piecemeal. One crab claw stabbed into his leg Asriel buckled slightly breaking his run. He stomped down on one leg and kept pushing forward all he can do is move foward. The attacks from the neverborn kept coming as he reached the half way point. Asriel could not remember certain events. He recalled the planet of Zatos but he could not remember what he did there. He remembered also cage but not remember the specifics surrounding it.

Asriel shook his head he shouted "I have to get to the end! I have to!" Asriel only had quarter of the way left the attacks from the daemonettes intesified. Asriel almost wanted to cry the pain was unberable and with it he no longer rembered anything. All he saw was blank faces no names could go with it. Yet he could see one face a familar one he spoke "To serve me I will give you a name since I cannot refer you to a serial number you are too valuable for that. A proper name as you serve your new lord your name from now shall be Asriel. I am your new Lord, and you will serve me."
To serve him is his purpose his centre of being Asriel held onto that his most precious memory. Asriel grasped that face and clutched it close to his heart as he reached the hill. He charged upwards gripping that memory tightly a daemonette then flipped in front of him she grinned. Asriel breathing began to slow, his heart beat began to slow in slow motion he watched the daemonette claw moving in the air towards his eyes. His vision was now consumed with darkness. Asriel held his eyes as he kept staggering forward he could not see, pieces of that precious moment were disintegrating and falling to pieces. His face crumbling away into darkness.

Asriel shouted he begged "no! no! don't go! please! I need you! Don't leave me!" Asriel slowly staggered forward and dropped to his knees.

The shadow looked at his legacy on his knees in front of the pink mist he looked up +herald, great one I win.+ The shadow saw a flash for a moment a mocking grin and luminescent white hair shimmering in the mist. The great one's voice was gentle almost kind it would draw anyone in and they would abandoned all reason for him +hmm claim your prize then...+ The shadow found the voice only stoked the bitterness within him. The shadow walked over to his legacy the husk ready to hold his form. The shadow looked at the blade on the back of his shell he chuckled +how ironic he has that sword, the same sword that pieced your armour great one.+

The shadow looked up waiting for a response as always he loved to make people wait the great one cooed +you saw that your people were already doomed when I arrived. Yet when you me you saw perfection, beauty you wanted a chance to fight it and you lost.+ The shadow laughed +back then you considered me an aberration a disgusting mockery of humanity! you did not even want to dirty your sword with my blood!+ The mist parted showing his face the pink skin his long white hair and black eyes and his horns protruding from his hair +the dark prince sustained you because your drive to defeat me.. no matter how I smashed your jaw. Broke your bones you kept getting up..+

The shadow shrugged +when I pierced you with my sword in anger you drove your blade into my chest. Yet.. that was not enough for me..+ The mist consumed the great ones features his voice came through the mist +there is never enough on this path..+ The shadow agreed +even so your children destroyed everything that I represented the strength. The need to pursue the will of the god we follow.. you took everything from our people.+ The great one was silent he never speaks whenever he felt he makes a mistake. The shadow knows if he was enlightened back then he would of made a very different decision.

The shadow sighed +no matter. I will take this one's body and the power of the baomer my heart was it's foundation. The gods sought to use it to pursue their own ends only you and the raven stuck to it. The maggot lord and blooddrinker left after their tribes proved weak but in the end my will matters!+ The great one laughed +you will kill my children then? All of my sons?+

The shadow chuckled +of course you destroyed my legacy, I will destroy yours I will ascend and tear your legacy asunder using the power of the offered souls.+ The herald spoke in almost a whisper the shadow could tell his tone was mocking +so you will start with my children here then? You will kill them all?+ The shadow nodded +I shall, I will torment this one's master I will break his body and tear it asunder! I will bring darkness to this world and ensure my people will rise again!+ The shadow looked to the husk he twitched. In shock the shadow stepped back +wha-?+ The shadow narrowed it's vision +It can't be..+ The husk staggered upwards. His body started at him with milky white eyes his iris were slightly blue showing blindness. The great one laughed +which excess will win? The one who wishes to protect my children vs the one who wishes to kill them?+

The shadow scowled +he is a shell! There is nothing left! His reason for existence is pitiful! Weak! Look! He is also invalid! A blind man!+ The shadow's body got into battle stance with their fists. The shadow scoffed +a child wishes to fight an elder...+ The shadow charged he punched the husk in the face with his gauntlet. His shell pushed his fist forward with their face, the husk his legacy slammed his fist into his face sending him flying. The shadow crashed on the ground he looked up +how?! It's impossible! there is nothing left! How can he see?!+ The shadow got to his feet his shell darted in with incredible speed his fist crashed into his face several times the shadow wanted to know why this is happening. The shadow roared +enough!+ The shadow released several punches into his shell's chest. Causing him to stagger back. The shadow's body was panting he breathed out words "I will protect him.. I will protect them.. I will kill.." The shadow did not let him speak he raced forward to strike him with gauntlet. To the shadow's horror his shell grabbed his blow and began crashing his hand. The shadow punched his shell several times in the chest he ignored the blows. With one hand his legacy pulled the sword from his back and rammed it into chest.

The shadow gasped he gripped the blade +Why is this happening? I was so close!+ The mist parted again revealing the face of the great one he smiled showing his teeth +you underestimated his excess you thought you found a powerful host with a weak reason for living something you could easily possess. I tell you this while you die, you are nothing. I am more interested in that one than you. I would trade all your people for the one here.+ The shadow found his form dissipating being sucked into the blade +No! No!+ The shadow lived by holding unto his pain his bitterness and now it is working against him. The shadow screamed as his form vanished all that he was crumbled away.

He dropped to his knees the enemy is gone. He can relax that person is safe. He cocked his head slightly he wondered who he refereed to he heard the shadow talking of killing someone but he did not know why he rose to fight. He could not see either he then felt someone suddenly holding his chin gently. Their hand was soft, warm even It made him feel happy whole, who ever was touching him he could give everything to them. They spoke softly as he spoke he felt love a strange sort of love +well done my little blade, broken and beaten like the sword you wield. My dear boy should just admit fully how he cares for you. Perhaps he pushes you away because he fears he might lose that bond if he spends time with you.+ As this being spoke he wondered who he was talking about but hearing him speak of that person made him feel something. He tried to remember why that person was important. Why he desired to protect him with all his might. He tried to remember but he couldn't he began crying trying to remember. The being comforted him +sssh, don't cry you have done wonderfully you are here with me. You have been working so hard without any reward or desire for one I will share with you a small piece of me. So you can go back to my son.+

He sniffed "okay.. can I ask something? The voice came again +what is it?+ He wiped his nose and eyes he felt like a child for some reason "who am I? Can you tell me please?" For some reason he could tell the great being was smiling.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/13 05:50:45


Post by: shinros


oh yeah spoilers on chapter 45 I want to say a few things

Spoiler:
While writing that part with Asriel losing his memories and who he was there was onions in the room. I don't know why. :( As I said I sorta plan the story out but typing it man...


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/13 12:08:11


Post by: lliu


Ok. Well now that's right back to square one for him. Hopefully he'll get off to a better start this time with no daemon inside. Then again that's not very possible is it?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/13 15:07:29


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Ok. Well now that's right back to square one for him. Hopefully he'll get off to a better start this time with no daemon inside. Then again that's not very possible is it?


Well... it's 40k grimdark and all that.

Spoiler:
But yeah I don't know if it was easy to read for people but for me writing it was hard I mean destroying everything I built into Asriel so far hit me kinda in the gut all he does up to this point he does not ever really get a pat on the back or a thank you but that's 40k right? an age of darkness where people are ground down. ; /


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/14 04:15:09


Post by: shinros


Chapter 46

Noxus felt his mind drifting moving through a sea of darkness. He was alone but it had a strange sense of comfort here he could relax. There was warmth and solitude he found purpose but in the end he hated his form. Being awake is still a sort of nightmare to him.
As he drifted in the darkness part of him felt he had something to do. Something to accomplish Noxus had to admit he was slightly upset with Asriel leaving right away but perhaps it was for the best. Asriel might feel that the further he gets away from Adelram the safer he would be. Plus the fact that Asriel's possible salvation is on Athor.

Noxus could understand the strategy after talking to Asriel for a length of time but in the end one thing bothered Noxus. Asriel's commitment to Adelram, no matter how much he thought about it he could not understand him. Noxus still thought Asriel was largely a fool for considering the warband to be a"family" but that had it's uses. He is so committed that he would kill himself for Adelram. Noxus frowned these days considering how the warband is changing Asriel is an ill fit everyone is changing, improving yet he remains the same. Everyone is largely ending up like the starlight king, Adelram is even outdoing him devouring a populace, tearing out souls and placing them within paintings. To drag their father's attention to them how far would they have to possibly go? Noxus wondered perhaps if their father is watching what does he think of the warband now?

Noxus shifted a thread of fear clinging to his twin hearts as he thought of his father. His father would most likely look at everyone in pride. If he looked at him he would destroy him instantly if he saw his current form. Noxus' heart's sank slightly thinking of the prospect even if he proves everyone wrong there is one constant. His father would hate him he would not even look at him. Thinking on the subject more Noxus felt his eyes opening, he cursed he wanted to stop it. To wrench them shut but they slowly slid open. As he looked through the slits of his sarcophagus he saw two familiar people. Noxus growled "You two." The one he recalled named Sitri shrugged "you could be a little nicer.." Noxus strained the chains "continue to mock me and I will break your body woman!" The man named Naberius gestured to Sitri "enough Sitri we are here to work..." Noxus raised his eyebrow in confusion "work? what do you mean?" Naberius nodded "you are going planet side." Noxus frowned the only time he could be unchained is only by Adelram's approval.

Noxus scoffed "I doubt he would give you approval to release me." Naberius shook his head "we don't have permission nor do we need it we have orders from our master to take you to the teleportarium." Naberius went to work removing the chains binding Noxus. Noxus was confused they have no fear betraying Adelram's wishes and they worked for a mysterious master. Noxus looked to Sitri who gave a toothed grin "I wonder how long he has spent with the master Naberius?" Naberius shrugged "who knows time flows differently there, depending on his whims he might go through violating someone, torture, comforting you, teaching and back to torture again. Spending even a second with him is blessing as you should know." Sitri tapped her lips "considering how boring he is I wonder what he will do? I recall he tortured you because you kept interrupting him you asked too many questions right?" Naberius looked up, Noxus could see it seemed like he was remembering a fond memory "oh yes but he explained a few things during it as well. What he does always has a purpose."

Naberius removed the last chain as he finished his sentence. Noxus stepped forward it was odd being unchained. Sometimes Adelram would not even wake him and simply throw him into battle without a thought. Noxus then swept his eyes over Naberius and Sitri, Noxus thought back to how he felt both of them were dangerous. Looking at them standing before them, they seem like simple slaves. Naberius seemed useful, Sitri just had a mouth that annoyed him. Noxus gained a strange curiosity to test if they are truly dangerous or even special. Noxus took a large step towards Sitri.
Sitri looked up to him smiling, it unnerved him "is something wrong? Has cat got your tongue?" Noxus narrowed his eyes as he slammed Sitri aside sending her flying to the wall. Noxus heard the breaking of bones as she hit the wall. She slid down as her head fell to the side slightly. Naberius sighed "we should get going." Naberius began walking to the exit.

Noxus grumbled "you don't care that I just broke your partner?" Naberius turned his head slightly towards Sitri frowning "hurry and get up. we are wasting precious time." Noxus was slightly annoyed that Naberius simply ignored him, after a second Noxus heard the snapping of bone and then a groan of pleasure. Noxus turned to Sitri her mouth was moving to Noxus' shock "Naberius.. just let me enjoy this? Please?" Naberius shook his head "up you get, you have plenty of time later to explore carnal pursuits." Sitri sighed as she staggered to her feet bones clicking back into place she brushed her robe and looked to Noxus she almost spoke seductively to him. Noxus felt his stomach turning as she spoke "I should unchain you later one Iron one.. I wonder what else you can do.."

In that instant Noxus knew for sure these people are not normal. Noxus turned to Naberius "how are we going to walk the halls without being noticed? I am in this... thing after all." Naberius smiled "just leave it to me." Noxus sighed "very well.." Noxus followed Naberius out of the room, Sitri following behind him. As they entered the corridor, Naberius began chanting waving one hand in the air. From his hand a purple mist was produced it encircled them. Naberius nodded "we can get moving now." Noxus looked at the mist "so how would this keep us from being noticed?" Naberius turned his head slightly back "we will be a blind spot within reality. People won't see us or be able to touch us. Unless they are powerful psyker."

Noxus narrowed his eyes "so we better not encounter Adelram then." Sitri laughed "he is more consumed preparing to chase a trinket than walk the halls of the ship! We are doing the real work Iron one!" Noxus took in the words of Sitri he wondered what she meant by "real work". As they walked through the corridors of the ship they simply phased through people. The slaves payed them no mind either to Noxus' surprise. At one point they passed by Silas, Noxus had to control himself he wanted to tear Silas to pieces break his arms, legs, leaving him a useless wreck. Noxus clenched the fist of the dreadnought as they walked by after a few minutes they came to a double doors.

Sitri walked towards the door and typed a number in the panel she grinned "I got it from one of the tech serfs. It was quite easy to get a hold of." Noxus was about to ask her exactly how she got the code but knew better considering how Sitri reacted when he smashed her aside in his room. The doors slid open and they walked in there was a large console connected to a large metal pad. Naberius pointed "could you stand on the pad please." Noxus walked over he stood on the pad. Naberius walked over to the console while Sitri stared over his shoulder. Noxus felt slightly anxious as he stood on the pad "do you know what you are doing? I heard stories of how people get stuck in walls using these things and you don't look like a tech priest." Naberius smiled to Noxus "all I am doing is turning it on."

Naberius pressed a few buttons the lights in the room lit up and the machinery started to warm up. A low hum came from the pad Noxus is standing on. Naberius stroked his chin "now it's asking for some numbers hmm.." Sitri looked to Noxus "I assume he should know them right?" Noxus raised his eyebrow he had no idea what they meant. How is he supposed to know how to work the machine? Sitri sighed "come on! Use your brain! I thought you are meant to be intelligent?" Noxus clenched the fists of the dreadnought he suddenly felt like breaking her again. He discarded the thought since in the end she will only enjoy it. Noxus began thinking as he mumbled "Numbers.." Noxus searched his memory until it dawned on him overall he was not sure what effect it would have on the machine "put in 66224493." Said Noxus. Naberius put in the numbers the machine began activating. A surge of purple light began to emit from the pad surrounding Noxus. After a second Naberius and Sitri vanished from his sight it felt like he was tumbling being thrown about.

After a few seconds the purple light bled away leaving him in a new location. Noxus looked around his mouth hanged "Of all places..." Noxus stared at the tree from his vision. The fruit was the same, the water was the same and the grass. Yet there was one thing out of place in front of him the ground was disturbed. Something was buried here a few days ago. As Noxus stared at the ground he recalled a discussion a day before Asriel left. About the buried sword and the giant plucking the corrupted blade from the ground. The vision was not literal he saw a large shadow digging at the dirt and eventually finding a sword. What is happening now is too convenient. Noxus sighed "time to start digging."

Noxus readied his fists and began tearing at the disturbed ground removing large chucks of soil. He worked at the ground for several minutes as he dug he saw roots as he was about to reach down again the roots assaulted him piercing the armour of his dreadnought. Noxus grunted "so something important must be here!" Noxus grabbed the roots trying to attack him and tore them to pieces with his hands. He crushed and tore any root that tried to attack him until it eventually subsided. Noxus looked up to the tree "what are you trying to keep me away from?" Noxus looked down he tore several chucks of soil away. Noxus then saw something a coffin. Noxus gripped it with his chunky hands breaking the coffin slightly. Noxus slowly dragged it out as he did so roots left the back of the coffin. Noxus stopped dragging it until it was fully out of the hole he dug. Noxus looked down at the coffin a strange stench came from it. It was not the disgusting kind it was the sort of one you would gladly breathe in basking in the sweet aroma.

Noxus could also see a black and purple mist intertwined together was sipping from the seams of the coffin. Noxus was curious what was inside he was about to reach down to tear the lid off until he heard muffled voices. Noxus looked to a great door, the muffled voices increased in volume Noxus readied himself for combat. As the doors opened he saw a group of humans who looked primitive and wore strange clothing. Several of them wearing gold masks with a snake rune engraved on their heads stepped forward pointing glaive's at him.

Noxus frowned "put the weapons away before I tear you asunder primtives!" The ones pointing weapons at him stared at each other until one pointed at him "Daemon! Daemon!" Noxus grew confused he wondered perhaps they are so primitive someone like him could be considered a daemon if they actually saw one they would void their bowels. Noxus shouted "I am no daemon primitives!" A man with dark skin wearing a snake headress came foward pointing at him "He has the hated symbol! It's the enemy of our people!" Noxus could not help but tilt his head slightly within his sarcophagus he sighed "fine, if you seek to fight me you will die!" Noxus was about to charge until a pink ball of fire appeared the voice that came from it was gentle yet each word bore the sound of screaming souls +all of you on your knees as I speak+ The primitives instantly dropped to the ground faces planted to the ground.

Noxus felt something strange he had the need to drop to his knees also. The ball of fire continued to speak +be blessed to hear my voice as I give my command. You will aid the one here he is not your enemy..+ As Noxus listened to the voice a second time he knew who it was. Tears began welling up in Noxus' eyes he wanted to drop to his knees he tried he wanted to make the motion his heart twisted as he was reminded of his state. Noxus felt that he was sullying the eyes of the most important figure to any emperor's children legionnaire.

The fire moved closer to Noxus he wanted to scream out his name but held his tongue. He wanted to aplogise for being ugly and disgusting, Noxus wept. As the voice came from the ball of fire it was like he read his mind +sssh, my son your form is bulky, unfit and ugly but you are a chrysalis at the moment. You are here because I need you. You can see above the horizon hence I chose the both of you as my tools in this.+ Noxus sniffled slightly he nodded slowly as he spoke the words "yes father.."

Noxus could feel his approval +good, now what is within that coffin will aid you. He is someone I shaped as a reward to him and as a reward to my children.+ Noxus looked down to the coffin so whatever inside is a person Noxus said "He? so it's a person? does he have a name?"

The pink ball of fire began to fizzel away as Noxus heard the last words of his father +yes.. his name is Beleth...+


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/15 12:01:21


Post by: shinros


Chapter 47

Noxus digested the name his father gave him "Beleth... interesting." Noxus grinned out of everyone in the warband their father talked to him first. He gave him a task first and if he completes it... how he could laud it over the others who belittled and insulted him. Noxus thought on the task a moment more he then grew confused his father told him that he is here for a reason but did not mention what he required of him. Noxus turned to the coffin he called out "primitives! Open the coffin!" The primitives slowly raised their faces from the ground, the older man wearing the snake headress gestured to the guards in gold maks in silence they got up and walked over and knelt at the coffin they began working at removing the cover. Noxus could see they were struggling most likely due to the aroma coming from the coffin. Noxus looked over the ones still on their knees unmoving from the spot where his father told them to kneel they were trying not to make eye contact with him.

Noxus said "can any of you speak fluent gothic?" a woman stood up "I can my name is Kar'iz." Noxus could see she was trying to make herself small. She reeked of fear, Noxus narrowed his eyes now he could get information "tell me, why are you here? what purpose did you have coming to this tree?" Kar'iz looked to the older man who was working on opening the coffin he nodded to her "you can explain." Noxus could see the man could also speak gothic perhaps many can but they might have their own language and prefer to use that.

Kar'iz cleared her throat "we came to see whether the king has risen." Noxus responded "King? You mean the person in the coffin?" Kar'iz nodded "indeed many of our warriors are actually at our home defending from the attacks made by the other tribes we hoped.. we hoped he would rise to save us...."

Noxus digested the information, they are the middle of a war whoever is in the coffin was the last gambit. They most likely thought that whoever this king is would rise from the ground. Noxus looked to the coffin again and finally the cover was removed. A gush of darkness swept out causing many of the men and women gathered to cover their eyes.

The older man slowly looked down into the coffin and suddenly a large clawed gauntlet reached out and grabbed his throat. Noxus watched the man gasping for breath trying with all his might to remove the hand. The guards rose and pointed their glaive's downwards ready to strike Noxus shouted "hold!"

The guards looked to the older man and Noxus in confusion not clearly sure what to do. Kar'iz called out "he will kill him!" Noxus turned to Kar'iz "and? I want to see what this "Beleth" can do." Noxus watched the older man struggle a dark mist was now being extracted from his eyes and mouth. His face was going ashen until suddenly the grip was released.

The old man staggered back gasping for air, Kar'iz ran over "Gravu!" Kar'iz checked Gravu over he nodded "I a-am f-fine." Noxus watched the gautnlted hand grab the edge of the coffin. The person named Beleth pulled himself upwards. Noxus' mouth hanged slightly when he saw fully who it was. Noxus breathed out "Asriel....?"

Asriel's head sagged foward as he breathed out a long rasp, Noxus could spot tiny fangs similar to ones bore by Jedrick. Asriel then bought his head upwards and turned to face Noxus. Noxus wondered truly what happened since Asriel left the ship, what chilled Noxus the most was the black void of his eyes with trails of three black inky tears rolling down his cheeks. After a second they vanished revealing milky white eyes with a slight blue hue.
Asriel staggered out of the coffin, the primitives stepped back in surprise. They still had weapons drawn. Asriel was not wearing shirt he had scars on his chest along with the tribal painting. Asriel also had a strange blade on his back, Noxus walked foward "don't tell me you joined these primtives? There must be a reason?" Asriel looked up to Noxus he clicked his neck and fingers as he spoke his voice was firm almost gentle hearing him talk that way seemed... wrong "everything is so.. loud.. wait? I have work to do we have work to do." Asriel turned his head to Noxus' "you are? wait.. I might know you perhaps.."

Noxus watched Asriel try to sound a name "N-N-N-" It was like it was on the tip of his tongue but he could not say it Noxus sighed "It's Noxus Asriel as I said have you joined these primtives? Have they addeled your mind?" Noxus watched Asriel ignore his question "Noxus.. Noxus.. so that's your name." Noxus' furrowed his brow "It is.. what happened? My father-" Asriel perked up soon as Noxus mentioned his father Noxus watched Asriel tap his fist in the gauntlet palm "oh yes! the phoenician!" Asriel grinned as he began walking forward casually pushing aside the weapons of the golden masked guards.

Annoyed Noxus trudged foward "don't ignore me! what happened Asriel?!" Asriel stopped and turned back "Who is Asriel Noxus?" Noxus mouth fell agape "this is a joke right?" Asriel frowned "I am not joking, now we have work to do Noxus. Time is wasting." Noxus recalled that his father said the name of the person within the coffin is Beleth. Perhaps the tribals did something, the primitives tore apart his mind.

Noxus turned to Kar'iz "what have you done?!" Kar'iz raised her hands in surprise "we haven't done anything!" Noxus mused on the conversation with his father he said he is something he shaped as a reward for the person in the coffin and for his children. There is one other clear change Asriel does not even refer him to Lord anymore.

Noxus swore he wondered how Adelram would react, yet their father had a hand in this perhaps he would be happy? Noxus turned to Asriel again "So your name is Beleth? Correct?" Asriel nodded "it is, that is the name the pheoncian gave to me my real one." Noxus narrowed his eyes "you had a name before that." Asriel shrugged "I don't remember it. I am not bothering to try to, now as I said we have work to do. We have to work quickly if not they will die."

Noxus wondered what Asriel went through to change this much it's clear his memory has been affected "Do you remember the others in the warband?" Asirel stopped for a second "I know them to be important, I can't remember their names or faces. Still faces are not much use to me anymore." Noxus confused asked "faces are not much use to you anymore?"

Asriel nodded "Indeed, I can't see." Noxus swore again, Noxus' mind drifted to Adelram again and his reaction. Noxus walked over to Asriel who flinched as he got close "How do you see then?" Asriel scowled "your footsteps.. if you must know vibrations through the ground" Asriel tapped his head "i can enhance it further if I wish through my psychic powers."

Noxus mused "so.. you see through your feet?" Asriel frowned "if you want to put it that way.. yes. Sound and smell also helps as well but the main factor is vibrations." Asriel looked to the entrance "we have to kill the "prophet and his minions I hope these are not all the forces we have?" Kar'iz walked over to Noxus "many of our warriors are fighting back home we should head back quickly!" Kar'iz turned to the older man "Gravu? are you okay to travel?"

Asriel crossed his arms "if he is not well enough leave him." Kar'iz looked to Asriel in a mix of shock and hatred "so it seems Ulg'pha was right.." Noxus watched the old man named Gravu walk over still rubbing his neck "Kar'iz we must do the will of the herald.."Noxus eyed Asriel "So Asi-" Asriel interrupted him "Beleth you mean?" Noxus sighed if that is the name his father gave him so be it It is his will "So Beleth, my father wants us to kill the prophet?" Beleth nodded "yes I personally can't wait to do so." Noxus raised his eyebrow "I assume the neverborn is still with you if you are talking like that?" Beleth shook his head "no, I do not share my flesh with a neverborn Noxus."

Noxus then grew curious what has his father exactly done to As- no Beleth. Noxus began to think perhaps Naberius and Sitri work for his father also. How they bravingly act shows as such and the fact he broke Sitri and she simply got up after a few moments. Noxus clenched his fists "I assume you two know the way?" Gravu walked forward "we do, please follow us there are enemy patrols about we should be careful." Noxus snorted "if we encounter an enemy I will break them with ease. Lead on." Gravu nodded "very well.."

Isabella watched the nobles heavily drinking since bringing Jospeh "on board" she has ensared several members of the clergy. Isabella held the empty pouch her Lord gave her, it only took days for the nobles to take to the concotion and now it's no longer needed. Talk of ilcit activity lined their lips and teetering on the edge of outright rebelling against the imperium. Izarus now spent his time with several women at home and at the social gatherings. Isabella grinned watching his true colours show itself.

Isabella looked to the entrance wondering when Joseph will turn up, he has attended several gatherings but has not drank from the punch to her annoyance. Isabella agreed with her lord he can't be trusted entirely but the fact he did not turn up this time worried her for some reason. As Isabella was thinking she heard a bang, she could also see Izarus' attention diverting to the window.

Isabella walked over and pulled the curtain aside slightly she saw meteors dropping from the sky. Crashing into the ground, some crushed the smaller mansions into smithereens. Isabella bit her lip and looked down to her bracelet. Isira sat on the chair she had Luke within her room sitting on her bed she wanted to speak with him find out his history it's quite mundane but she always had a feeling he was holding something back. He held a secret he did not want to reveal, she watched Luke shifting nevoursly while sitting on her bed.

Isira leaned back in her chair thinking according to Jimmy there are scion and arbite patrols everywhere looking for someone of her describtion and possibly Luke as well. Right now she is stuck and most likely it's Asriel's fault. Isira looked to Luke who was still fidgiting staring at him to Isira he seemed so young and innocent a small grin lined her features. Isira sat up from the chair and walked over to Luke who stopped shifting "er is something wrong?" Isira leaned down towards his face "nothing, tell me Luke have you ever wanted more out of your life?" Luke nodded "yeah it's why I joined Sam's gang." Luke scratched the back of his head "but that seems to have gone down the drain."

Isira leaned in forward and kissed luke on the cheek "I am talking about far more.." Isira watched Luke seize up "ee-er I am no-" Isira kissed him again "relax.." Isira could sense Luke was slipping until he pushed her away to Isira's suprise luke stammered "sor-sorry I can't!" Isira frowned and then gave a small smile "it's okay, we can take it slow." Luke looked away slightly "it's not that I just.. don't want to do it." Isira eyes wided slightly "am I not your type?" Luke shook his head "n-no! you are very beautiful Ashley! It's just.." Isira moved slightly closer "it's just what?" Luke gulped "George said when women try to cosy up to you that normally means they want something out of you..."

Isira laughed and stook a step back even when he is dead he ruins her plans. Still the boy is smart, it's most likely why he hasn't been captured like everyone else. Isira moved to adapt "true, in a sense but in this instance I simply want to comfort you in this situation." Luke nodded "I see.. bu-"
Isira folded her arms again "what else did George say?" Luke spoke slowly "comfort can breed weakness.. I was happy with my ma and pa but.." Isira could see a weakness she moved to sit down next to Luke "something more happened with your parents?" Luke sighed as he nodded slowly "yes I-"
Before he could explain Isira heard the coded knock it was Jimmy. Isira got up from the bed and unlocked the door he came into the room slightly sweating. He dabbed a cloth on his brow "L- I mean Ashley I am hearing from my contacts that the planet is under attack!" Isira shot up "what?! by who?!" Jimmy gulped "word is space marines in crimson armour.." Isira swore, she looked to her bracelet and held it tightly.

Adelram walked to the war room in a brisk pace sirens blurting on the ship for everyone to go to battle stations. Adelram held Isira's and Isabella's gems thinking on their last contact someone is attacking the planet. It is crimson Astartes according to Isira Adelram guessed it's likely to be word bearers.

Adelram mused whether they know of his gem the word bearers would likely wish to claim it possibly attacking the planet in a sort of foolish religious crusade. The gem is is prize that Adelram wishes to claim for himself. Adelram stopped at the twin doors he pushed in the code and the doors opened revealing a table mixed with a tactical viewer screen. Adelram touched the buttons on the table bringing up a picture of the planet Athor and eventually the hive city itself. He never used the machine before he always went through strategies and positions within his own personal chambers. Considering the state of his chambers at the moment he decided to finally make use of this room. The doors slid open, Adelram looked up "Jedrick, you are here good." Jedrick whistled "why don't we use this place more often again?" Adelram tapped the screen "focus Jedrick.." Jedrick sighed "right, right so we are finally going to have some fun?" Adelram frowned "we have an objective." Jedrick raised his eyebrow "objective?"

Adelram nodded "I shall explain when everyone is here." As Adelram said those words Silas and Marthas turned up and they bought someone that soured Adelram's mood "Marthas... please tell me why is he here?" Marthas folded his arms "I decided to make use of him Adelram."
Adelram eyed the third individual it was Sebastian he was now in his power armour he also had the addition of wearing the star of chaos as a halo on his power armour. Adelram frowned "So Sebastian.. do you have anything to say?" Sebastian simply looked away without saying a word.
Silas gestured with his head slightly to Sebastian "he doesn't really talk now, actually I think he is better this way." Adelram diverted his eyes back to Marthas "I trust he won't attempt anything Marthas?" Marthas grinned "he won't I have been quite thorough, he leads the chosen on the field." Adelram in surprise raised his eyebrow "really? how did he manage that?"

Marthas tapped the haft of his weapon on the floor "he simply defeated everyone who wanted the spot to their annoyance. As Silas said he does not talk much unless it's directed towards combat." Adelram stroked is chin as he stared at Sebastian he knows Marthas is good at what he does and he does agree that Sebastian seems better now that he is no longer running his mouth.

Still one thing is throwing him off is how at ease Sebastian is, it's oddly chilling. Adelram looked to the table "ri-" Marthas raised his hand "before we move further may I ask a question?" Adelram sighed "what is it?" Marthas coughed slightly "may I ask why are we not doing this in your chamber like usual? When we went to your room Silas and Jedrick convinced me not to knock after we heard noises of dying slaves and broken objects."
Silas looked to Marthas "er.. is that appropriate?" Jedrick shook his head, Adelram took a deep breath he clenched his fist. As always Marthas always has the audacity to cut right to the matter and poke his nose into people's problems. Adelram spoke firmly he notcied rime started to line the room but he did not care "everything is fine Marthas. Let's focus on the assault okay?
"
Marthas frowned "I won't prod further but be aware that entering battle in such a mindset considering the powers we are dealing with carries a risk." Adelram nodded while still clenching his fist "I know, now.." Adelram's mind began to drift to him. Adelram clenched his teeth slightly to push that thought away. "He is dead, a failure who bought him nothing" Adelram repeated this in his head the fact he has a better servant now.
Adelram breathed in then out he pointed to the top of the city "we are assaulting the upper layer in full force." Jedrick's eyes went wide "everything on the upper layer? seriously?" Adelram nodded "Isabella discovered something that another warband might be trying to claim I want it."
Marthas stared at the map "so what did she discover?" Adelram made several gestures with his free hand and conjured a small image of the gem "it's a powerful gem laced with the power of chaos, imagine if we secured it?! The things I could do with it if turned to the power of the dark prince!" Jedrick crossed his arms and furrowed his brow "I remember the last time you messed with a gem, you died."

Adelram frowned "that was different, this gem is most likely shaped by one the chaos gods most likely the great changer. As I said if we secure it and shift it's alignment.." Silas stepped foward "how sure are we that this is not some sort of trick? I detest dealing with objects belonging to the raven god and how sure are you that this thing is even powerful? I say we focus on spreading pain and suffering to the fools on the planet and destroy anyone who gets in our way."
Adelram pressed his point "I saw the gem, touched it, I felt it's power a small fraction of it. Now imagine this Silas? Let's say the word bearers claims it and uses it? That put's us in danger when we are on world. Once the gem is secured then we can do that."
Silas shook his head "very well.. I have a bad feeling about this though." Marthas looked at the image "I can see your point Silas, but Adelram is correct we can't risk a powerful artefact falling into the hands of the word bearers especially if we are assaulting the same planet." Adelram nodded "right I want everyone to prepare for the assault."

Adelram looked to Silas "prep the terminators for a teleport assault." Silas nodded "it shall be done." Adelram moved his eyes to Marthas "I want you and Sebastian along with the temple forces boots on ground targeting Astartes forces." Marthas inclined his head, Sebestian is still looking away in silence. Jedrick grinned "so my lot are with you?" Adelram nodded "yes, we are going to use the dreadclaws to get as near to the grand cathedral as possible. I want the human forces supporting Marthas' group." Jedrick nodded "aye it shall be done."
Adelram swept his eyes over everyone "no-" the doors of the war room suddenly slid open breaking Adelram's train of thought it was the tech priest Caius. He justled towards Adelram. Adelram crossed his arms "I assume you are preparing Noxus for the assault? If so I wish him to be sent down first to cause as much damage as possible." Silas sighed in annoyance "Adelram.. we don't need the cripple even if it is to soak up fire."
Adelram nodded "I can see your point but we might as well make us-" Caius interrupted "Astartes Adelram there is a problem with that." Adelram raised his eyebrow "well if he is ill-fit for war then no matter.." Caius shook his head "no it is not that." Adelram could see Caius shifting erratically Adelram raised his eyebrow "has something happened?"

Caius spoke, Adelram could tell even in that montone voice there was a small lace of worry "Astartes Noxus is missing from his holding area." Adelram blinked several times in surprise "may.. I ask how did he go missing?" Jedrick scratched his head "He is a dreadnought he is pretty hard to miss." Silas added "also he looks digusting and is bulky too you could also hear him a mile away." Adelram creased his brow as he sighed "now a possible useful element in the assault is missing.. no matter we have to press foward." A voice came from the room a voice he did not expect to hear, Sebastian said "you are not curious that a dreadnought suddenly vanished for unknown reasons?" Adelram quickly turned to Sebastian who was looking away like before. Adelram eyed Marthas and silas "I thought you said he doesn't talk?" Silas frowned "we said he doesn't talk much." Adelram turned back to Caius "we will worry about Noxus' location later I want you to prep the dreadclaws." Caius nodded "very well." Caius shuffled out of the room.

Adelram looked at everyone one last time "the assault on Athor begins now!"


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/17 03:19:04


Post by: shinros


Chapter 48

Noxus walked with the tribals in the tunnels towards their home. Noxus looked at Beleth walking, Noxus still wondered how he could see he did not bump into walls or people once when they started their journey. What preplexed Noxus most of all was their strange mural when leaving the tree.
They did not have time to look at it since Beleth was pressing the need to kill the prophet. The main thing Noxus spotted as they passed by was the symbol of the emperor's children painted on the mural. When he get's the time Noxus oddly wanted to question the primitives on it. Gravu nodded "we are almost back." Beleth stopped "there is a large group of people down the tunnel."

Kar'iz shook her head "there are already at the gates?! we must hurry!" Noxus watched the tribal's running forward. Beleth and Noxus followed as they made their way down the tunnel Noxus saw a large group of tribal's wearing dog, raven and skull masks attacking a gate. The one Noxus assumed to be the one leading the assault wore a crimson robe with a raven mask lined with blue jewels.

They raised their staff generating a large ball of blue fire, they launched it at the gate blowing it open. Kar'iz shouted "they have broken the gate!" Gravu hissed "they far out number us Kar'iz we have to be careful!" Noxus watched the tribal's stop running, Kar'iz began pleading to Gravu "we have to stop them! they will kill everyone!" Gravu shook his head "we can't charge blindly! look! they have far more warriors and gothi!" Noxus' annoyed that they stopped continued to charge on forward his father wanted them dead so they would die, Beleth also simply ran on towards the attacking group. Noxus grinned "he has the right idea." Noxus increased his speed the attacking tribal's finally noticed the large stomps. The enemy turned to face Noxus he saw the tribal's were clearly afraid since their weapons were shaking in their hands. Noxus watched several among their number throw fireballs at him Noxus crashed through it. Noxus snorted "your paltry sorcery is nothing!" Noxus barrelled into the group he smashed people aside. One tribal wearing a dog mask tried to hack at him with blades. Noxus grabbed him with the fist of his dreadnought and crushed him throwing him aside like a doll.

Anyone that approached Noxus he simply broke their bones and tossed them aside. Noxus shifted to Beleth looking through the slits of his sarcophagus it was pretty much the same. Tribal's that approached they died in two's as his sword trailed in through the air. He is also smoothly dodging any blows that come his way. One tribal behind him raised a throwing spear as they stomped on the ground to chuck it forward Noxus called out "Be-" Beleth gestured one of his fingers upwards, darkness surged out of the gauntlet. In front of the tribal a pool of darkness formed a spear of darkness shot out of the pool into the chest of the tribal wielding the spear. The tribal sagged forward on the spike dropping the spear to the ground.

Beleth looked towards Noxus as he impaled another tribal with his blade "what is it?" Noxus shifted away while smacking an enemy away "it's nothing." Noxus could sense Beleth frowning in annoyance. Noxus then heard the shouting of their allies from behind him as they charged into battle Noxus grunted as he crushed the head of someone wearing a raven mask "so now the cowards fight.." Noxus stared in the distance he could see the leader pointing at him he screeched "Kill the daemon! The ormr have sided with them! Do not fail the prophet!" Noxus frowned the tribal's blindly follow this so called prophet, Noxus called out to Beleth "why do you have to kill this prophet!?" Beleth punched a tribal in the face with the gauntlet smashing away the mask and a chunk of their face he looked in Noxus' direction "he is a mere puppet, a puppet we have to kill when we kill the puppet we can aim for the puppet master." Beleth grabbed the throat of a charging tribal the clawed fingers tips of the gauntlet digging in as he gripped the neck he squeezed tighter and after a moment it snapped.

Beleth casually threw the tribal aside "first we must take care of the trash." Noxus looked at the leader of the assaulting force "Indeed this ends now!" Noxus charged through the crowd trampling those who got in his way gore covering his feet. Noxus could see the enemy leader nervously looking back he summoned a gout of blue fire and directed it at Noxus. Noxus felt the intense heat on his sarcophagus he roared as he charged through the fire "die!" Noxus grabbed the tribal sorcerer and squeezed breaking his bones. Noxus threw the sorcerer aside as Noxus killed the leader warriors in golden masks came pouring out of the gates to fight the enemy.

Noxus could also see the morale of the enemy force crumbling and some have decided to drop their weapons and run. Noxus twisted the hands of the dreadnought as Beleth came walking over "their morale is weak." Noxus snorted "you surprised? they are primitives." Beleth nodded "true, I hope some are captured alive though." Noxus furrows his brows "may I ask why?" Beleth grinned "it's a surprise Noxus! Just wait and see..." After the golden masked warriors surged out of the gates many dropped their weapons to surrender, some fled. They were then gathered in the centre of the ormr encampment, Noxus assumed the name had something to do with a snake considering the snake iconongraphy on their clothes and icons of worship.

The one who Noxus assumed to be the leader of their warriors came forward with a group pointing weapons at him Noxus scowled "you old man! Tell this fool to lower his weapon before I break him!" the leader shook his head "you are a daemon! you bare the hated symbol!" Gravu came over hands up "Calm yourself Ulg'pha, the Herald has sent him to us!" Ulg'pha's head flicked to Gravu "if this is true how can we trust the Herald!? Also why is he here?!" Ulg'pha pointed his weapon at Beleth. Noxus could see Beleth is standing before the captives smiling, Noxus called out "Beleth he is pointing a weapon at you!" Beleth shrugged "let him if he has any sense he would accept our aid gladly. Those who refuse to aid him should be removed. They should be in thanks for being allowed in his designs." Noxus agreed these primitives should be blessed that his father even deigns a word with them. Gravu narrowed his eyes at Ulg'pha "if you go further Ulg'pha it will be blasphemy! Heresy!"

Ulg'pha sighed in annoyance "Am I the only one who can see that they seek to decieve us?! Not help!?" Gravu shouted "enough! Lower your weapon!" Ulg'pha slowly lowered his weapon along with the rest of the warriors he lead. Gravu walked over to Beleth "my.. ki-" Beleth flicked his head to Gravu "I am not your king. Your king was a petty fool."Gravu nodded "I see, I just wanted to say we have some of your old belongings still do you want them to be fetched for you?" Noxus could see Beleth's eyes twitch a little just for a moment he slowly nodded "yes I want them." Gravu clapped he instructed four of the tribals' to fetch various items. All four ran off in different directions. Beleth then asked Gravu "do you have some water? I wish to clean off this tribal paint." Gravu nodded he clapped again tribal's came forward with wooden cups filled with water. Noxus watched Beleth use the water to clean off all the tribal markings after he was done he nodded. An hour passed and the tribal's sent away to fetch Beleth's belongings came back with a bracelet, black vest, cloak and a book.

Beleth grabbed the braclet first Noxus watched as he touched the black gem he frowned. Noxus raised is eyebrow "is something wrong?" Beleth cocked his head slightly "I dunno, touching this makes me feel... odd." Beleth placed the bracelet on his wrist as he moved to the vest Beleth removed his sword sheath so he could put on the vest. Afterwards he placed the sword sheath around his body Beleth nodded "that's better..." Beleth then grabbed his cloak He wrapped it around his shoulders the cloak suddenly came to life distorting rapidly as it tried to assault Beleth. Noxus could hear hissing and snarling coming from the cloak until Beleth said "ssh it's alright relax." The black feathered cloak slowly calmed down as went still.

Finally Beleth went to the book, his old journal. Beleth grabbed it and rubbed his hand on the cover his head tilted slightly "I thought I would feel something... anything.. " Beleth silently clipped the journal on the hooks of the sword sheath. Gravu walked towards Beleth as he finished "is there anything else you require?" Beleth grinned "yes! I want all of your slaves bought here!" Ulg'pha walked forward "what?! You can't agree with such a request! what right does he have to ask such a thing!?" Noxus found himself also wondering why Beleth wanted so many captives he put the question to him "Beleth, what do you aim to do with them?" Beleth walked over to Noxus. He gently bought his hand down his sarcophagus "tell me Noxus are you happy with your current form? Your father showed me a few things." Noxus' eyes went wide "you can restore me?! How?!" Beleth shook his head "I can't restore you the axe of the plague lord destroyed your form permanently." Noxus' hearts sank "so what do you aim to do then?" Beleth gently smiled "I will reshape your current state."

Noxus asked "what do you mean.. reshape?" Beleth nodded "you will be stronger, faster and you will be able to feel. Plus the added bonus of improving your looks." Noxus thought about it his current hulking and bulky form. The warband got poor parts and threw them together to make this chasis if his father and Beleth are giving him a means to improve himself why should he refuse? Noxus spoke firmly "old man, get Beleth the slaves." Kar'iz finally interjected "Ulg'pha is right in a sense those slaves belong to us!" Noxus growled "all of you belong to my father as do your slaves!" Noxus clenched the fist of the dreadnought causing several people to step back in fear "you saw what Beleth and I did at the gates, don't make me decide to reevaluate your usefulness to my father's cause!" Gravu rubbed his hands anxiously he then sighed "get the slaves...."

Beleth tapped Noxus sarcophagus with his hand "thank you Noxus you won't regret it trust me!" as Beleth said those words several tribesmen went away to gather the slaves. After several minutes chained people were bought to where they are holding the captives. Beleth walked over to them and breathed in "I wonder how they will react.." Noxus walked over to Beleth "react to what?" Beleth flexed his gauntlet "to this." Darkness spilled from both his hands he made a dragging motion wrenching a black essence from all the slaves and enemy captives. Noxus watched all of them convulse and howl in pure and utter agony. Noxus watched all of this happen "I-" Beleth frowned "it's necessary, be joyful Noxus their lives are being used to make you better I am giving them a gift."

Noxus coutinued to watch he wondered how exactly this is a gift the pure agony wrenched on their faces. After Beleth was done all the slaves and captives skins were ashen, you could also see the bone underneath their skin. Noxus turned to Beleth who now had a black ball floating in his hand.
Beleth grinned he licked the ball his eyes turning black like when he rose from the coffin "such pain... I could almost.. oh." Beleth turned to Noxus "can't let myself get distracted... please do enjoy the process Noxus." Noxus frowned "what pr-" Beleth then released the ball of dark energy into Noxus. Noxus suddenly felt hot within his sarcophagus it was getting smaller cramped as the metal within closed in. Noxus tried to move but the cables and tubes stopped him fear began creeping into his twin hearts, Noxus then felt a stinging pain in his back Noxus blinked "I felt pain..." Noxus felt the fear being banished from his heart instead a sense of euphoria gripped him.Then from the connected tubes attached to his body he felt a strange liquid entering his system. Noxus could feel his nerves lightning up, it burned but it felt so wonderful to him.

Noxus shouted "I need more! Give me more!" Beleth nodded "very well." The surge of darkness increased and so did the pain. Noxus vision was being consumed by darkness he screamed.

Phavo looked down to the tribesmen who fled the battle at the gate's of ormr. He was on his knees before him, the prophet, Gar'bas and Milisnar. They were in the prophet's chambers at the arena. It was close to the ormr's tirbes home hence why Phavo had it built in this location. Overall Phavo was suprised the Prophet did not kill the tribesmen right away he assumed the prophet's mood matched his scowling helmet.

The prophet walked over to the shaking tribesmen who is on his knees the prophet drew his power mace "tell me.. the gods hate those who are weak. Why should I not kill you now?" The tribesmen held his hands up "prophet! please forgive me! th-they had an iron monster with them!" The prophet cocked his head slightly "iron monster?"The tribesmen nodded "yes! it destroyed everything in their path! It also had the hated symbol!" Phavo narrowed his eyes within his mask at that exclamation. Phavo coughed "you mean the mark of the daemons?" The tribesmen nodded "the golden clawed hand bearing a wing!" Phavo watched the prophet curse he then nodded "if those degenerates are here then they have to be dealt with." The prophet raised his power mace "thank you for the information you may go to the gods." The prophet bought down his mace and smashed the head of the tribesmen, gore splattered against the floor.

Phavo walked forward "we should do the ritual... if this iron monster broke our whole force we need more.. help." The prophet flicked towards Phavo "I will do the ritual when I am ready! I do not need your advice Phavo!" Phavo dropped his head "yes prophet." The prophet turned to Gar'bas "I want all your warriors preparing the perimeter for a possible assault!" The prophet then cast his gave to Milisnar "I want you to be the second line of defence!" The prophet then pointed at Phavo "I want all of your strongest warriors at the back ready with their powers to shower the enemy in eldritch fire!"

Gar'bas snorted "look at the bird receiving a cowards job." Phavo slightly sighed that the prophet allowed Gar'bas to speak out of turn. Still Phavo bowed "it shall be done prophet. I will go and prepare my forces." The prophet nodded "get to it, I want the ormr tribe under my control!" Phavo moved to the exit of the room just as he was about to leave Phavo heard the prophet began speaking to Gar'bas and Milisnar in far more detail.

Phavo grinned as he quietly said "it seems that I might have to do it myself afterall.."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/17 03:47:01


Post by: shinros


Chapter 49

Adelram sat in the drop pod with Jedrick and the other Astartes forces under Jedrick's command. Jedrick laughed his helmet made the laugh sound like a roar "I love using these!" Adelram made a frown under his helmet "we have used them twice before..." Jedrick turned his head to Adelram "aye! I will say it again! gone are the days we have to take turns using thunderhawks!" Adelram could not help but smile slightly "I see what you mean, the resources on the ship help us greatly." Jedrick nodded "so secure the gem then have fun on the planet right?" Adelram nodded back "yes we aim for that first and then we focus on the populace." As Adelram said those words the lights within the drop pod flashed. Jedrick shouted "it's time to go!" As Adelram felt the drop pod unhinging from the ship and shooting down to the planet surface. Some among their number started to sing, others prayed. Adelram looked to Jedrick who was simply laughing still in excitement.

Adelram soon felt his hearts swirling with excitement but he understood he that he had to retain focus he is the leader still. It was unfortunate that they could not use the noble forces going by Isabella's words their corruption was almost complete until the word bearers decided to ruin it. Adelram sighed "well I just have to make sure they pay..." The drop pod crashed to the ground, Adelram rattled in his seat on impact the doors opened Adelram quickly undid his belts and jumped out of the drop pod. Adelram smiled as he saw scions now pointing guns at him. Adelram drew his blade and pointed it towards them "scream! And suffer!" Adelram released a torrent of pink mist as the scions fired at him.

Adelram raised his hand to block the las fire with a shimmering psychic force field. As the pink mist crashed into the scions they screamed as their skin distorted and twisted they were left gibbering pieces of meat after the mist has done it's work. Jedrick walked over to Adelram and grunted "you could of waited..." Adelram shrugged as he tapped Jedrick's chest with the flat part of his blade "you can have fun after we get to the church." Jedrick sighed "very well...." Adelram turned to the Church in the distance "we are not far off.. let's go!" Jedrick nodded "aye! all forces on me!" The astartes nodded all of them began their long run to the church.

Kraathal walked towards the church grinning he held his crozius in hand as he smashed aside a pathetic human. Kraathal thought on the host as the human went flying to the ground he ordered the host to form a defensive perimeter around the church and the general area the enemy has to go through lines of the faithful and the true followers of chaos to reach them here.

Aszim walked forward with the anointed as he shot a human with his stormbolter "It is here dark apostle?" Kraathal nodded "yes my Coryphaus it is here! The gods are guiding us! We reached the artefact before the degenerates and those worshipping a false god!" Aszim nodded the tusks of his terminator helm moving slightly "what of Dycius? He has not bought the tribals." Kraathal began walking up the steps as he turned his head slightly "the tribals are merely a test for him if he brings back a low number he has failed and will be reprimanded appropriately. If he brings the tribals in a great number? His training will continue further... now enough questions we must focus on our holy task!" Aszim inclined his head "yes dark apostle." Kraathal continued walking up the steps he spat on the ground wondering how such a holy artefact of the gods could be in such a temple devoted to a weakling god. When the gem is secured they have to take steps to correctly defile the temple. Kraathal mumbled "with the power of the gem.. this planet will be guided to true worship.."

Dycius looked at the lines of his warriors covering the tunnel exit, Gar'bas was on the front lines waiting for the enemy. Milisnar is with him but there is a problem, Dycius looked around Phavo's forces haven't turned up. Dycius ground his teeth in anger "when I find him I will flay him alive.." Dycius said to himself. Dycius drew his power mace and activated it he spoke out loud "no matter, we defeat this "iron monster" then focus on punishing Phavo!" Dycius could see by Milisnar's body language that she approves of his words.

Dycius looked to the tunnel he soon heard stomping he raised his eyebrow he thought it was likely that what the tribals faced at the gates of the ormr was an Astartes. The footsteps are far too loud. Dycius narrowed his eyes as the sound of laughter entered his ears out of the darkness came charging a dreadnought. It looked to be a mix of machinery and flesh Dycius swore "A helbrute!? how did they get one down here?!" The helbrute wielded 4 spiked metal tendrils on it's left hand and it's right hand was a fist with spiked fingers, the helbrute body frame was also quite slender.
Dycius then bought his eyes to the helmeted head as the laughter echoed in his mind. The Helbrute charged the front lines tearing a large hole with ease. Dycius pointed his power mace at it "All forces swarm it quickly! restrict it's movements!" Luckily the helbrute bearing the emperor's children's sigil seemed to strengthen the tribals zeal along with their fear of gaining his displeasure. Both tribes moved forward at his command.

As Dycius' forces swarmed the helbrute the ormr tribe also came charging out of the tunnel hitting their lines. Dycius ground his teeth in anger. He can't lost here, he is a son of lorgar son to the child of the gods themselves! Dycius shouted "I won't be beaten by disgusting degenerates!"
Dycius watched the metal tendrils killing the tribals in threes and then four's. Dycius licked his lips it seems he has to summon some help. Dycius began chanting the words of power he could feel the neverborn pressing at the edges of reality screaming to be let loose. Milisnar then called out "prophet look out!" Dycius broke his chant in anger he flicked his head to Milisnar "what is it?!"

Milisnar pointed and Dycius saw a hooded person charging towards him a black feathered cape distorting in the air. Dycius clenched his fist wondering how a human got past the lines. Dycius shrugged casually "it's only a human Milisnar.. no matter he will be dealt with." The hoodded human bound into the air as the sword trailed towards Dycius darkness followed the blade. Dycius dodged backwards and hissed "a psyker?!" The hooded human landed gently he gave a small bow "Beleth." Dycius frowned "I don't care what your name is foolish human." Beleth removed his hood, Dycius' eyes went wide "you are from the arena.. if you don't care for the tribals why are you fighting for them?!" Beleth shrugged "I don't, they are a means to an end I aim to save someone and the great one wishes you dead." Dycius shifted slightly and mumbled under his breath "great one?" Beleth grinned "considering how you just moved I sense confusion don't worry since you are about to die I will tell you. It is Lord Fulgrim the Phoenician be blessed to hear his name word bearer."

Dycius took one step back upon hearing that name "th-that's impossible?! Why would a primarch have interest in this planet?!" Dycius thought on the gem perhaps the lord of the third wants it? Beleth laughed "you took a step back, it was a light is that fear?" Dycius' hearts skipped a beat he took a step forward in anger "I fear no one! Perhaps the lord of the third is so consumed with pleasure that it effected his sense! Sending a human! Ha!" Dycius the heard Beleth speak his voice was lined with such venom and malice for some odd reason Dycius felt his mouth drying "you insult him!? you insult him of all people!? your death will be horrific word bearer!"

Dycius grinned "then come human! show me why the lord of the third chose a frail human like you as an agent!" Dycius gestured Milisnar back "stay back you will get in the way." Milisnar bowed her head "yes prophet." Dycius got into battle stance "as I said show me human if the Phoenician has any sense!" Dycius looked at Beleth frowning his eyes turned black three inky like tears went down both eyes. His cloak began to distort and twist, Dyicus even heard growling in the air. Dycius scoffed he has crushed plenty of psykers on this mudball they wield pathetic powers and have no true grasp on the power of chaos. Dycius blinked several times and suddenly Beleth was in front of him, Dyicus raised his mace to strike as he bought it down Beleth simply shifted to the left a little dodging it cleanly to Dycius' shock.

After a heartbeat suddenly he could not breathe. Dycius felt something in his throat he blinked again and he saw a blade piercing his throat. Dycius felt his vision growing dark he blinked again and he was now somewhere else.

He looked around and in the distance he saw... the perfect city Dycius mouthed slowly "it's impossible! This must be an illusion!" After a moment the city exploded the fire rushed towards Dycius melting his armour and skin he screamed in agony as his skin melted, his armour fusing with his skin due to the heat.

The pain went on for what seemed like an age and suddenly the pain vanished and Dycius was on his knees. There were Ashes around him he looked up to see a golden light and lorgar kneeling before it and the hated ultrmarine primarch standing with the light. Dyicus looked around and he saw others in grey armour kneeling. Dycius scowled "never again!" Dycius tried to rise but he couldn't no matter how hard he tried he yelled out "you are a weakling god false emperor!" As he did so everyone turned to him, Dycius blinked again and the ultramarine primarch Roboute Guilliman stood before him. He removed his blade and began slashing away at Dycius. Dycius screamed each cut felt real, each stab felt horrific. Dycius' vision went red until he blink again and he stood just as before in front of the perfect city he screamed.

Beleth heard the word bearer crash to ground, the viberation reverberating out doing the ones made by the feet of those fighting, Beleth spat on his corpse. Beleth heard the tribal leader she was with staggering back each step Beleth could tell that she was in complete and utter fear. She screeched each word lined with the fear of dying "impossible?! how did you kill the prophet?! D-die!" Beleth heard the buzzing of flies heading towards him he raised his gauntlet and produced a ball of purple fire. He shot it forward Beleth soon he felt thousands of flies hitting the ground. Beleth then ran towards to the tribal leader he could hear and feel her turning around to run. Beleth grinned "you are far too slow follower of the plague god."

Beleth impaled his blade through her chest she gargled, Beleth increased his hearing by a notch he wanted to draw everything in as she died. The great one, Lord Fulgrim said to absorb everything with his other senses each of his lessons came with pain or pleasure. Failure to follow the lesson was met with pain. Doing it correctly came pleasure. Since the great one changed his body he could feel vibrations, he no longer needed his sight.

Lord Fulgrim stated it can't be restored in the end Beleth viewed losing his sight as a gift of sorts. Still he wondered why he lost it when the great master allowed him to ask questions he simply says he lost it trying to protect them. Beleth hanged on the word "them" the need to protect them won't go away but he was not sure who them is. Lord Fulgrim said that it's the warband he served before losing his memories. That he served his children but he would not tell Beleth more about them. Beleth could not remember faces or names when he met Noxus he felt oddly happy but when trying to think of the leader his heart twists slightly and the need to push harder on this mission increases. Before he awakened Lord Fulgrim ordered him to follow that emotion no matter what. It is what makes him special.

Beleth nodded as he finally removed his blade from the Tribal leader she crumpled to the ground with a thud. Beleth opened his ears as he heard the dying screams of the enemy tribal's he smiled "Noxus seems to be really enjoying himself." Beleth noted since upgrading Noxus' form he was eager to try it in battle. Beleth stroked his chin it is a good idea for Noxus to get used to his form since it's likely the true enemy is going to appear soon.

The word bearer or in other words the prophet was the puppet, Beleth hoped he could kill one of the puppet masters but it seems that he is moving to his end game plot and that can't be allowed to come to frutition. As Beleth mused he felt the stomping of feet his footsteps have gotten lighter but whenever he walks it tingles his body slightly "Beleth their lines are breaking." Beleth noted his voice was far more smoother compared to before the warband likely installed a poor vox speaker. Beleth turned to Noxus "We have to press forward to the baomer, the tree our true enemy is there." Noxus snorted "then they will die I assume this is part of my father's task?" Beleth then felt something dropping on the floor nearby it was not heavy but it was rather spherical "Yes, Also did you drop something on the floor?" Noxus chuckled "it was the head of the tribal leader. He came at me running screaming praises to the blood god. I used the power scourge to hold him and then I tore his head off."

Beleth smiled "so that means we have only one tribe to deal with. I suspect they are defending one of the puppet masters." Beleth felt Noxus motioning in the direction of the word bearer corpse "So Beleth what did you do to him? His mouth is agape." Beleth crossed his arms "he insulted your father so I punished him." Beleth heard Noxus scowling "how did you punish him?" Beleth grinned in response "as he is dying I let him experience his worse moment in his life. I am quite sure it repeated at least 100 times before I twisted my blade in his neck. The amount of pain and terror that came from him was.. exquisite."

Noxus chuckled "as he deserves let's deal with the rest of the enemy tribal's as their lines break and get to the tree." Beleth nodded in agreement.

Phavo raised his staff and began to chant, the rest of his tribe are guarding the way to the baomer. Phavo wished the prophet did the ritual instead that way the great raven would be more powerful his changes to the ritual would still give the desired restult but it would kill him in the process. Phavo snickered "he is most likely dead by now.. insufferable fool he thought himself above everyone else.."

Phavo continued the chant the baomer twisted, all the fruits save the ones touched by the god of excess shifted in alignment to the god of change. Phavo thought on the war happening above about now all the pieces are coming together to kill, to fight over a useless bauble. The gem only gives the image of power it has none to give and through people dying to that deception and the souls gathered by the baomer the great raven will be powerful. It will change this planet to a world fit for the servants of the god of change. Phavo ended the chant from the tree a great bird call came, the air felt hot the edges of reality began to distort. The middle of the tree cracked and a yellow beak began poking through it.

Phavo grinned "your time is coming great one.. soon.."

Belaris impaled a cultist with his blade he kicked them off he swore "when are they coming!? we can't hold forever!?" Belaris looked over to Fahim as he crushed the skull of another cultist with his two handed power armour, his carapace armour is mixed with his priest robes "worry not the god-emperor protects his faithful!" Belaris nodded "indeed he does!"

Belaris looked over to Micheal as he was healing Larissa's wounds Micheal frowned "we still haven't found the gem.." Larissa agreed with Micheal "indeed, I suspect the heretics are attacking because they know the location. They would not be here otherwise." Micheal lifted his hand from Larissa's wound both got to their feet.

Belaris clenched his hand "I am of the same mind, two traitor forces attacking at once? They must be fighting over it." Belaris ears caught the sound ofmaniacal laughter, out of the streets came a squad of the emperor's bastard children they began charging towards them. Fahim readied his hammer "we are outmatched here we should fall back!" Belaris nodded "yes we can't fight a squad of them!" As Belaris said those words he saw a flash of light he covered his eyes as the light died down he saw Astartes in sliver armour 10 of them in total. Looking at them more closely blue energy soft in colouration danced across their armour the leader was someone he recognised Belaris smiled "Librarian Rafael!"

Rafeal turned his head slightly back to Belaris and then to the heretics he pointed his staff at the heretic forces coming towards them "Grey knights! Purge the tainted!" An acknowledgement came from each grey knight they rose their fists in unison and fired their stormbolters. Several of the heretic Astartes fell to the bolter fire. Rafael released a wave of white energy that crashed into the heretic force one of the traitors screamed "my face! this pain! I hate it!" as he fell to the ground. Rafael commanded the grey knights "Cleave the heads from those who bow to chaos brothers!" The grey knights moved in drawing and readying force halberds and swords. As they crashed into the remnants of the traitor force they cut them down like children. Rafael approached the enemy leader and blasted him with a brilliant blue light, the leader of the forces crumpled to the ground as everything that was kissed by the touch of heresy was burnt to cinders.

Rafael tapped the haft of his staff on the ground as he spoke his voice cold and firm "suffer not the heretic to live..." A grey knight walked over to Rafael "All traitors forces are dead Librarian." Rafael nodded and then looked to Belaris and inclined his head slightly "inquisitor."

Belaris walked over "thank the emperor you appeared here." Rafael shook his head "we have more work to do we have no time to be cheerful yet." Belaris nodded in agreement "agreed w-" Belaris words died on his lips as the skies changed to blue and cracked with unnatural lightning in the distance a black hole appeared over the grand cathedral.

Rafael pointed in the direction of the church with his staff "I assume our objective is there." He said calmly. Belaris slowly nodded "yes we need to get going. Have you seen the salamanders?" Rafael inclined his head "their ship is orbit and the salamanders are making planet fall." Belaris grinned "we might just win this day for the emperor." Rafael shook his head "we will win this day Inquisitor."

Belaris grinned at Rafael's exclimation as they made their march to the church.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/17 20:29:01


Post by: shinros


Oh yeah part 2 is heading on it's way to the ending.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/17 21:02:32


Post by: shinros


Chapter 50

Adelram ran through the streets with Jedrick, the warband forces they bought with them ran behind. Another added bonus is that they linked up with another 10 man squad on the way to the church. Adelram looked up to the blue sky "the word beares are most likely using the gem we have to get there quickly!" Jedrick nodded "aye! that shall be done!" Jedrick turned his head to the Astartes following them "pick up the pace! I don't want to see what sort of madness the word bearers will spring out!" When Jedrick shouted his order Adelram could hear several grunts of acknowledgement.
After a minute or running they made a right, Adelram suddenly caught the sound of bolter fire and screams. Adelram bit his lip slightly he wanted to avoid delays. Adelram looked at his visor information Silas' and Marthas communication lights were green. Adelram nodded "so their task is progressing smoothly..." As they ran down the road they came upon an open area and they saw Salamanders 8 of them in number but they looked far larger than normal. The dead bodies of word bearers surrounded them.

They wielded a variant of bolters that all had scopes and were bulkier than the stalker pattern. Adelram stopped he flicked his head to Jedrick "I assume these are the "new" weapons Asriel mentioned?" Jedrick nodded slowly "I assume so.. they are.. big." The one Adelram assumed to be the sergeant of the squad turned towards them he barked "intercessors! open fire!" Adelram raised his eyebrow "intercessors?"

The salamanders at once readied their bolters and fired Adelram ducked to cover, Jedrick did the same several of their forces were not lucky. The bolter fire from the intercessors tore them to pieces the ceramite gave way on the sheer impact of the bolter fire. Jedrick poked his head slightly out of cover "I want one of those..." Adelram shouted "focus Jedrick!" Jedrick looked over while nodding "I am! I am just admiring their weaponry.." Adelram poked his head slightly out of cover looking at them they wore a new mark of armour he has never seen before. They were marching forward while firing their bolters the cover they were hiding behind is also giving way.

Adelram breathed in and then out he opened his communication channel to the Astartes following him "I want all of you on me! I will get us close to them! We cannot defeat them in terms of ranged fire power!" Adelram looked at several lights turning from yellow to green in acknowledgement.
Adelram nodded he hopped out of cover with both hands he spread them outwards and made a pushing motion. A long purple shield extended outwards, Adelram began jogging forwards. As the shield manifested all of their forces got out of cover and followed him. Adelram grit his teeth as the bolter fire crashed on the shield it was far more stressful blocking their fire compared to normal bolters. Adelram roared and began moving into a sprint, As he got close the salamander sergeant barked another order as he drew his power sword "Intercessors close combat weapons!" All the intercessors removed large combat knives from their belts. Adelram lowered the shield and drew his blade. Jedrick snarled as he crashed into an Intercessor.

Adelram ignited his blade and charged into one close by it was odd to Adelram that he had to look up slightly as he went face to face with the Astartes. The intercessor charged at him "for the Emperor! for Vulkan!" Their knife flash out, Adelram had trouble seeing it the knife dug deep into his sword wielding arm. Adelram hissed in pain, the intercessor drew back his fist and punched Adelram in the face. Adelram felt his head rattling at the impact he imagined if he was not wearing his helmet a part of his face would be gone right now. The intercessor removed his knife and aimed for Adelram's throat. Adelram shook his head to clear his vision in slow motion he saw the knife coming towards him. Adelram narrowed his eyes as he spat "vouz'zz'yk'vu!"

The intercessor seized up his fingers began twitching Adelram used this chance he readied his blade and impaled the intercessor. Adelram shouted "die! follower of the false emperor!" Adelram could hear him gargling Adelram grinned. Adelram watched the intercessor slowly die he whispered "so much for new weapons.." The intercessor coughed "d-die traitor!" he made a fist to Adelram's shock he pushed forward on Adelram's blade the intercessor then stabbed Adelram's shoulder pad with his knife and with his free hand began punching Adelram repeatedly in the face. The intercessor shouted more loudly "Die! Traitor! Death to all who seeks to harm the imperium!"

Adelram began seeing black spots, blood dribbled down his nose the sheer force that was connecting with his helmet is causing him to stagger back. Until a second later it stopped he blinked as the intercessor slid off his blade and crashed to the ground. Adelram looked up to see Jedrick standing before him with a bloodied axe several spots in his armour is cracked. Adelram looked down "he is dead right?" Jedrick raised his axe "we have to make sure!" Jedrick bought down his axe several times upon the intercessor leaving his armour a ruin of gore and meat. Adelram nodded slowly "that was dangerous.." Adelram quickly turned "the sergeant Jedrick!" Jedrick grabbed his shoulder pad "Is dead.. he killed several of us before he went down." Jedrick pointed his axe to the dead sergeant surrounded by dead emperor's children. Adelram looked around he could see by that one encounter they lost half their number.

Adelram swore it's likely the word bearers are making a perimeter around the church and if the salamanders have more of these.. new Astartes it would be bloody getting there. Adelram ran his eyes down the tactical display. Silas' and Marthas' lights were still green he opened the channel "I want all your forces to converge on the church whatever the word bearers are doing we have to stop it!" Marthas' voice came through "Salamanders are landing on the planet we might be flanked." Silas agreed with Marthas "Indeed it will be bloody." Adelram clenched his fists "look at the sky! if the word bearers finish what ever they are doing we will have far more to worry about than the Salamanders!" Adelram sighed his mind drifted to Noxus he would of been useful right about now. Adelram began wondering again how could a dreadnought vanish.

Adelram looked at the church again he narrowed his eyes the main prize is there, he began thinking of the things he could do with it and if he dedicated that power to the dark prince...

Adelram looked over to the remaining forces "we are pressing on!"

Kraathal stood at the altar dedicated to the false emperor he held the gem of the great changer in his hands. He could feel the neverborn pressing on the edges of reality. Kraathal looked around the cathedral the clergy have been ritually nailed to the walls. Any icon of worship dedicated to the false emperor has been defiled as per detailed in the book of Lorgar. Kraathal looked at the shining blue gem, he could feel it's power surging through his body. He could feel the favour of the gods. Kraathal grinned now he had to speak the incantation as shown in his visions. Kraathal bought his head upwards to Aszim and the anointed "Protect the doors I want nothing getting past or distracting me from releasing the power of the gem!"

Aszim nodded "yes dark aspotle!" Aszim gestured with his power sword "Anoited form a perimeter on the door way!" Kraathal watched the anoited and Aszim get into position Kraathal smiled and announced "our victory is ordained! We are the sons of lorgar! We are guided by the powers!"
The gem exploded with a brilliant light Kraathal felt the walls of reality finally being pierced he laughed "the children of the gods are coming! Hold fast!"

Kraathal began chanting the incantation.

Adelram ran towards the church he was almost there they were now in the grand plaza and what he saw was a bedlam of violence. Between the salamanders and the word bearers. In the distance he could see Silas' terminator squad crashing into the enemy hacking enemy Astartes into pieces.
In the middle he could see Marthas and Sebastian making their way to the church the chosen swatting side any who approach. Adelram opened his communication to the forces following him "we have to get to Marthas and make our way to the church!" everyone nodded including Jedrick.
Adelram charged into battle he released a wave of pink mist killing several Astartes at once. Jedrick was beside him cutting down anyone that got close. Adelram felt a surge of pain in his right shoulder as pieces of his armour fell away. Adelram looked to his shoulder and he saw he took a stray shot. He swore they are being caught up in the battle.

As people died Adelram heard the fluttering of bird wings small blue orbs of fire danced around the dead they expanded until they formed neverborn. A creature about the size of a human that was pink in colouration. Tentacles flailed at it's back as it began throwing orbs of fire randomly at people. Adelram clenched his fist "pink horrors! be careful!" Across the battlefield more of them spawned. Adelram flicked to the church he mumbled "the dark apostle must be summoning them... " Adelram caught the sword of laughter, he turned as a pink horror came charging at him he slashed the pink horror as it crumpled to the ground it separated creating two smaller blue versions of it.

Adelram clenched his teeth "dammit! this will just slow us down!" Adelram looked around the battlefield the neverborn of the great changer appearing blocked the way to Marthas. Adelram scanned the field again he could see due to the neverborn throwing fire randomly a gap was made in the lines towards the church. Adelram grinned "On me! Quickly! We are charging through that gap!"

Noxus ran with Beleth towards the tree, the forces that survived were with them. Noxus could see that many of the ormr are still wounded. Some even died during the march.

Noxus could hear Gravu, Ulg'pha and Kar'iz whispering, Noxus frowned "Beleth they will betray us." Beleth nodded "I can see that happening but Gravu is keeping Ulg'pha and Kar'iz in line for now. Gravu is fully aware of your father's fury and power." Hearing those words Noxus recalled the time his father removed Eidolon 's head for speaking out of turn after he gave them a war.

Noxus chuckled "indeed, imagine it now he has ascended." Beleth nodded as they took another step he furrows his brow "enemies ahead." Noxus readied his fist "I see..." Noxus grinned under his helmet "I can't wait to tear them apart to feel their blood on my hand.."
Noxus bought his fist up a small little maw is on the palm mixed with the flesh and machinery. Noxus moved the fingers it was strange at first it felt like his actual hand in a sense. Noxus moved the fingers he was surprised at the sheer dexterity. Eventually they reached the long hall bearing the mural and Beleth was right there was lines of tribal's wearing raven masks. They waited for them Noxus found it odd they are not attacking them now.

Noxus swept his eyes over the enemy tribal's many bore staves and glowing weapons. Gravu walked up "many will die.." Beleth sighed in annoyance "yes but you die for him there is nothing greater you can ask for." Noxus could see Gravu holding his hands tightly Noxus spoke his voice flat "Old man, whatever those two are putting into your head discard it. For if you utter a single word that makes me suspect you will back out of this task. I will kill the Ormr."

Ulg'pha came stomping foward "see! look they want to use our lives! He calls the herald father! what i-" Gravu shouted "enough! Ulg'pha! It's too late! We have only one path!" Kar'iz walked forward "listen to Ulg'pha! High Gothi! Please!" Noxus grumbled in annoyance he walked towards Ulg'pha and grabbed him Ulg'pha shouted "wh-" Noxus instantly crushed him in his hands warm blood and gore dribbled down his hand. Noxus dropped the carcass on the floor Noxus watched their forces point their weapons at him "I had enough of him talking ill of my father. Now Old man order the charge!" Noxus could see Kar'iz backing away slowly how swiftly he killed Ulg'pha must of shook her spirit. Beleth chuckled "far too quick.." Noxus grunted "I am tired of wasting time! My father wishes to see the enemy dead! Anyone who gets in the way of that..."

Noxus could see Gravu looking at the corpse of Ulg'pha he closed his eyes for a moment and looked to the the enemy forces "Charge! Kill them!" The ormr looked at each other slowly in ones, then twos they charged the enemy lines. Noxus turned to Beleth "let's go!" Beleth nodded.
The enemy tribal's readied their weapons as they crashed into their lines. Noxus' power scourges twisted and stabbed killing four at a time. Beleth impaled a tribal "We have to get to the tree!" Noxus looked towards the door "Right!" Noxus roared as he ran through the lines making a gap for Beleth to run through. Noxus called out "what of the ormr!?" Beleth grinned "they will hold them here!" Noxus trampled any tribal's that got in his way Noxus could clearly see these tribal's are poor fighters compared to the ones they fought at the dome. If he was in his old state their sorcery grouped together in such number might of been dangerous. Noxus grabbed a tribal who was slashing his legs.

Noxus lifted the tribal slighty and then squeezed as blood poured upon him. The heat of blood on skin Noxus shouted "the esctacy of war how I missed it!" Noxus was nearing the door he could see the enemy commander with three psykers generating a extremely large orb of blue fire.
Their chant reached a crescendo as they launched the ball of fire, Noxus stopped "that might be dangerous..." Beleth leaped in front of him and raised a shimmering purple wall of psychic energy. The ball of fire crashed onto the shield fizzling out. Noxus watched the psykers stagger back in surprise. Noxus grinned he walked past Beleth and charged into them the first he impaled with his power scourge, the second he tore apart with his hand and the third? He grabbed and crushed. The commander walked back towards the door "you are too late! Minion of the serpent! The great raven is here!"

Noxus walked towards the commander "then I will kill it!" Noxus raised his fist and punched the commander smashing their body into the door. Beleth walked towards the door "the enemy psyker was partially right. I can feel the great raven past the door but it has not fully manifested yet.." Noxus snorted "well.. we have some work to do then!" Noxus turned back he could see the ormr are still fighting the enemy tribal's "what of them?" Beleth shrugged "we are at the objective let's focus on that." Noxus turned back to the door "yes let's do that." Noxus pushed the door wide open with his fist. They both walked through, Noxus saw a psyker with a bird on his shoulder chanting standing before a greater shard or at least half of it. The tree is distorted and stretched as half the body of the greater shard is now within reality. Noxus looked at it's face a great jagged yellow beak along with 4 blinking eyes. Blue feathers that shined with a rainbow of colours and it held a great staff in it's right hand.

Beleth frowned "I can feel it gaining power!" Noxus clenched his fist "let's not waste any time!" Noxus approached the tree with Beleth. Noxus watched as the four eyes shifted to him the greater shard spoke each word sounded like thousands or ravens squawking at once "You two..."
Noxus frowned "you two?" The greater shard laughed "I wish I killed you when you went poking your noses in places you don't belong. Yet you kept persisting the only small wrench in this grand plan. Still you are about to die so let me at least introduce myself.. my name is Ugo, exalted in the eyes of the great changer of ways and also known as the great raven.."

Beleth shouted "we don't care what you name is! You will die here!" Ugo laughed again "tell me broken creature! What can you do!? I surge with power as they die above! My body swells with the offerings from the baomer!" Beleth grinned "you are most likely using power to keep the game going above aren't you? I am quite sure we could kill you in this state.." Noxus narrowed his eyes "this is the enemy my father wants dead Beleth?" Beleth nodded "yes it is" Beleth drew his sword. Ugo then pointed at Noxus "tell me iron one are you sure you want to do that?" Noxus readied his fist "yes I am quite sure!" Ugo grinned his beak distorting unnaturally to make the motion "you have the sight, a powerful gift that can be developed following the changer of ways... kill the creature." Ugo pointed at Beleth "if you kill him, I will restore your body everything that was lost to you." Noxus felt his fingers loosening slightly "restore.. my body.."

Ugo nodded "yes, the power of tzeentch has the power over change it would be a paltry thing to restore a frame broken by the plague god.." Noxus thought about it for a moment just for a second until he discarded it "I desire my father's love and the adoration of my fellows over what you offer neverborn!" Ugo scowled in annoyance "so be it..." Ugo raised his staff he began generating a ball of rainbow coloured fire, Beleth called out "Noxus I will protect you as best you can!" Noxus watched Beleth's hand produced a surge of dark mist Beleth then channelled it into him. Noxus felt a strange warmth as the mist danced around his frame he grinned "Right!" Noxus charged forward. Ugo unleashed a torrent of multi-coloured fire.

The mist with a life of it's own moved to intercept the blast, it did not stop it completely but it gave Noxus time to dodge away. Noxus rammed into Ugo causing him to scowl in pain "Foolish creature! You cannot stop fate! I will manifest fully!" Ugo bought his free hand down on Noxus and slashed at his chassis.

Noxus grit his teeth as metal and flesh was torn away. The claw kept rising and falling until a sword pierced in Ugo's hand. Ugo howled in pain he looked at the sword and then flicked his head towards Beleth who was now near the tree. Beleth grinned "you most likely see the fate you want slipping away don't you?" Ugo unleashed a ear splintering shriek "I won't be ended by two ingrates! Two blind creatures who follow base needs!"

Noxus raised his power scourge and attacked Ugo's chest they impaled Ugo. Noxus laughed "you are going to be beaten! By us! My father desires your death so shall it be done!" Noxus pulled down with the power scourge bringing Ugo's body downwards. Noxus could see Beleth pulling his blade out of Ugo's hand as he bought his body down.

Noxus shouted "attack his head! Quickly!" Beleth nodded he bound towards Ugo's head. Ugo shouted "No! This will not happen!" Ugo chanted and produced balls of fire they zapped towards Beleth. Beleth danced through each ball of fire that came into his direction he then planted his sword in Ugo's neck. He released a surge of darkness as he pushed his blade in, Ugo released an Unnatural scream Beleth then removed his blade and bought his blade upwards and slashed down removing Ugo's head. Noxus felt the weight vanishing yet as his power scourge removed itself from Ugo's body it was still moving.

Ugo's head flopped on the ground he screeched "I will not be st-" Noxus walked over and crushed his head with his foot. Noxus scowled "be silent neverborn!" As Noxus crushed it's head the body began to melt as it was sucked back into the tree. Beleth breathed out a sigh of relief "we are fortunate he did not fully manifest."

Noxus gripped his fist "indeed, now where is that psyker that was with him.." Noxus turned to see the psyker was now on his bottom shaking "It's impossible! How! The fates were aligned! Every thread showed the great raven's victory!" Beleth walked up to the psyker "what you see is possibilities, every action creates branching points you of all people should know that." Beleth turned to Noxus "hold him we will question him further as we go to the surface. Now it's time to collect the prize..."

Noxus walked over and grabbed the psyker who trashed in his grip he bought him towards his face "keep thrashing and I will break your body sorcerer." Noxus watched the raven that sat on the sorcerers shoulder fly away and dissipate in the air. The sorcerer called out "no! master please come back! I haven't failed!"

Noxus squeezed slightly, the sorcerer whimpered "be silent sorcerer." The sorcerer stopped struggling. Noxus watched Beleth walk up to the tree he raised his gauntlet as he released a stream of darkness into the tree. It twisted and finally it began crumbling away, the water pouring out of the pipes turned dirty, the grass died and finally the tree crumbled to dust. What was now before Beleth is a black beating heart. Noxus could see the heart pulsed like it was alive the heart then floated and hovered over Beleth's gauntleted hand. Beleth smiled "something more grand will occur compared to summoning a greater shard...."

As Beleth said those words Noxus saw a bloodied Gravu with a small number of the ormr tribe came walking in.

Gravu looked at the dirty water, grass and then the heart his weary face turned into fury "What have you done!" Gravu sadly looked to his hands "Kar'iz just died in the last battle.. I come to the sacred baomer to see it destroyed... I should of listened.. I should of listened to both of them.." Gravu pointed at the heart "Secure it! Quickly! They hold our lives in their hands!"

Beleth gestured the heart towards them "thank you, you served the great one well. Here is his reward to you.." A surge of purple and black energy erupted from the black heart consuming Gravu and the approaching Ormr. Noxus watched the tribal's drop to the ground like a stone they began convulsing and screaming in pure agony their bodies twisted and trashed on the ground. Eventually they stopped moving their mouths agape in pure and utter terror.

Noxus saw this and licked his lips he turned to Beleth "may I ask what you are going to do with it?" Beleth turned to him he chuckled he said "they will be saved..."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 00:27:36


Post by: shinros


Chapter 51

Adelram panted as he stabbed the final word bearer blocking his way he made his way up the steps his body wracked with pain the amount of stray fire they caught cut down many of their numbers. Adelram looked back to Jedrick who also looked worse for wear. Blood leaking from several cracks in his armour. The forces that followed him those that are still alive look to be on their last legs. Adelram could see Marthas' and Silas' names flashing red. Adelram grit his teeth as he ran up the door the sounds of gibbering neverborn behind. Adelram stood at the door after a second Jedrick stood with him now having caught up. Jedrick breathing was hoarse "we are here Adelram.. let get to it!" Adelram nodded he pushed the door open and a line of terminator fire greeted him. Adelram raised his hands summoning a shield. Adelram slowly walked forward trying to muster as much energy as possible. He could see the dark Apostle holding the gem chanting. Adelram grit his teeth his prize is there and if he secured it..

Adelram tried to break into a run until his shield started to degrade. Adelram hissed "No! Hold on just a little more!" Adelram felt a pounding headache each shot that hit the shield increased it. Until finally it gave way. A shower of bolter fire hit him, the pain was excruciating. Adelram felt parts of his body burning as the shells destroyed sections of his armour. Adelram collapsed forward the screams of the warband echoing in his mind as they were gunned down. Adelram looked forward to see Jedrick by him protecting him from fire. Jedrick fell backwards screaming as one of the word bearer terminators shot a gout of flame from his heavy flamer. Adelram looked at Jedrick's melted armour all he could hear was a rasp from Jedrick. Adelram then looked at Marthas' and Silas' names on his display they were still flashing red he blinked to open their channels. He heard their screams and gun fire.

Adelram cursed after everything he has been through.. he will die here? Adelram mouthed slowly "I..can't die...not yet..." Adelram tried to move it was too painful. Adelram looked up slightly a terminator with large tusk's came walking towards him.

Izel sat on the command throne on his ship as he watched the small threads of fate play out through tiny blue orbs. Izel in one orb watched the void battle unfolding between the emperor's children and word bearer ships. In another the Lord of sin being gunned down by the word bearers and in all of it the imperium was caught in the middle. A man in a blue robe approached the throne and bowed "Lord Izel, I have returned.."

Izel inclined his head "Joseph you completed your task unlike Phavo..." Jospeh looked up "My lord what do we do now?" Izel sighed "the ship is cloaked using wards the plot is ruined I am just watching how it plays out." Izel shook his head "if only that little fool would listen to me.. at least the broken king did not take the power of the tree and plunged the world into infinite darkness." Joseph asked "would he of used the tree to also ascend?" Izel nodded "yes he would kill all those who are on his world and make it a "paradise" for the ormr tribe. After that he would hunt the emperor's children across the stars."

Izel leaned back in the chair at the corner of his eye one of the orbs turned black and then another. Until all of them shared the same colour. Izel quickly stood up to the shock of the bridge crew he pulled at all of them searching for what was happening. Izel only found darkness Izel shook his head "the broken king is dead.. what is..." All the orbs then came together showing one fate. One destiny in store of Athor "across the planet, upon the ships surrounding the planet all those who are fighting in the war are on the floor twisting in agony." Izel shouted at the bridge "Get us out of range of the planet!" One the crew looked back "h-how far my lord!"

Izel clenched his fist "As far as you can! I don't care! Just do it!" Jospeh rose to his feet "is something wrong my lord?" Izel looked to Jospeh "I underestimated the insanity of that young man..."

Beleth walked the streets of the upper layer he could feel all the dead bodies on the floor. Humans and Astartes, Loyal and traitor. Beleth could hear Noxus' footsteps behind him and the gibbering of the sorceror he held. With encrougment from Noxus the soreceror filled out some the gaps. The prize everyone is coverting on the upper layer is a red herring to draw them into conflict. A conflict the great raven fed off. Everyone who sought the gem and fought over it was a pawn in the game. In the end the gem only gave the image of power it had none to give.
Beleth mused on the fact that Lord Fulgrim said both he and his son were not part of the game that pursuing this path prevented them from being strung into it. Hence Lord Fulgrim found the tools he needed.

Beleth laughed slightly if his old self did not stick by with Noxus they would of all died. Oddly enough when Beleth thinks about the sorcerer he feels like he knows him but in the end it does not matter he won't survive what is coming. Beleth could hear Noxus moving his lips, He smiled Noxus is most likely wondering what he aims to do with the heart "Noxus you wish to know what I am going to do with it?" Noxus footsteps shifted slightly "yes I do. Actually I am quite surprised you found a lift that took us here." Beleth nodded since he can detect vibrations he merely expanded the sense until he found a large structure that could be a lift. It was simply process of elimination, Beleth mused on how he would answer the first question "I found the lift by expanding my senses that's it.. now the heart?" Beleth lifted it up slightly "will sort the true faithful from those who are not."

Noxus mouthed his reponse slowly "true faithful...?" Beleth chuckled "yes, the focal point would be the safest but we will still feel the effects somewhat. Your father wishes to give this gift to the planet and we are the messengers. Defeating the greater of shard of tzeentch shifted the heart to the dark prince's influence. In turn this should save the warband." Beleth detected Noxus' footsteps increasing in pace "that excited are you? To add further unleashing the energy will go far enough to touch the ships fighting in orbit."

Noxus responded in suprise "really?" Beleth nodded "really.. now we are about to reach the spot." Beleth walked foward he could detect this was somewhat a spacious area in the upper layer. Beleth could still feel the power of the god of change lingering but soon that will change.
The sorcerer began shouting at him "You two are insane! Do you have any idea of how much devastation you will cause!?" Beleth heard the fingers of Noxus hand moving as squeezed the sorcerer Noxus said "Sanity is for the weak! Hurry Beleth do it! I want to see what my father has in store for us!" Beleth smiled "Yes! Let's!"

Beleth focused he felt the surge of all the souls offered to the baomer pounding within the heart. Beleth felt the energy uncoiling from the heart after a second he felt a gush of heat exploding on his skin a myriad of sensations assaulted his mind and body from pain to pleasure. Beleth wanted to let it all in to bask in what was happening. The screams echoing within his mind was wonderful.

Beleth could also hear Noxus basking in what was happening and the screams of agony from the sorcerer.

Isabella paced the underground bunker it was almost the size of a large house. The maids and butlers we at work cleaning or serving Izarus while he sat lazily in the chair. Isabella crossed her arms "you can be so relaxed? when the war is going on?" Izarus looked up to Isabella "Alivia relax, the last time we were attacked many nobles went to their bunkers and the heretics moved on. The same will happen." Izarus took a sip from his glass of wine. Isabella bit her lip her plans are in shambles and the warband had to do standard assault to locate the prize her lord coveted. Isabella ran through her head what went wrong until she thought of Jospeh. It was odd that he vanished just before the attack.

Isabella then heard a bang from the bunker door. She looked over to the reinforced door the bang came again and again. Izarus finally rose from his seat "what is that?" Isabella squinted her eyes as the metal distorted and was sucked inwards destroying the door. A wave of purple and black energy shot out of the door.

Isabella staggered back she turned away as the energy crashed into her. She trashed on the floor the pain was horrific her scream echoed with those in the bunker.

Isabella drank a glass of wine thinking of what she will say to Adelram, how she will explain her failure face to face. Isabella sighed while scratching her head luckily the war is mainly happening on the upper layer. Isabella took another swig of wine. As she drank the door of her room blew open she sprang from her chair to see a wave of dark energy approaching her. From it she could sense an untold tide of pain and anguish. Isabella's eyes darted around the room she held up her hands in geniune fear as the energy launched into her.

Belaris ran behind Rafael they were nearing the church until he suddenly stopped. Belaris raised his eyebrow "is something wrong Liberian Rafael?" Rafael stood like a stone he barked an order "brothers! Focus your energy into me! Quickly!" At once all the grey knights raised their hands a soft blue line left it and connected with Rafael's body.

Rafael raised his staff and finally Belaris saw what he was preparing for, A tide of dark energy was racing towards them. Consuming everything in it's path. Larissa staggerd back "what is that!?" Belaris turned to Fahim, Micheal and Larissa "Get behind the grey knights quickly!"
Belaris and his acolytes moved into position as the dark energy surged towards them. Rafael slammed his staff down as a white shimmering shield covered them. The energy battered the shield pressing to get in. It was like the energy was specifically seeking them out. Belaris looked at the energy his head ringed with the screams of the dying they oddly formed words "let us in.. let us embrace you.."

Belaris could see the shield cracking, Belaris quickly bought his eyes on Rafael he is struggling to maintain the shield his shoulders are sagging. Belaris could hear the other grey knights panting. Belaris walked forward he held out his hand and focused a line of blue energy left his hand and attached itself to Rafael.

Rafael breathing began to steady the cracks sealed and the voices stopped. Belaris began to feel weak he wondered how long he could keep this up, Belaris found that he has started to pant he is out of breath. Belaris tried to think who in the emperor's name could unleash such evil.

Adelram looked at the word bearer terminator approaching he stood over him and pointed his stormbolter at his head. The word bearer terminator spat "degenrates should be put down like dogs." Adelram clenched his eyes shut waiting for it to come, until he heard a shower of screams.
Adelram opened his eyes to see the word bearer terminator walking back slightly "what is that!?" Adelram in confusion blinked until he felt something crashing into his body. Adelram screamed he twisted on the ground he felt something entering his armour pricking at his body. The pain soon turned into pleasure he wanted more whatever was happening he demanded more.

Adelram tried to rise slightly he sagged to the ground what he was feeling was too much he could not handle it. Adelram felt his eyes rolling back as his vision darkened.

Adelram coughed he tried to open his eyes but he felt extremely tired he heard voices they were familiar "I should tear off his arm.." Adelram furrowed his brow "Noxus...?" Another voice came "you that upset you did not get to kill the sorceror? I have a better idea tear off his legs and make him crawl.." Adelram found his breathing increasing slightly when he heard the second voice.

Adelram mouthed slowly "it can't be..Asriel?" Adelram then heard Noxus laughing "That is a good idea!" Adelram heard a scream "Infidels! Degenerates! I swear I will kill y-" Adelram began hearing the tearing of limbs and then a thud on the ground. Afterwards he could hear someone crawling. Adelram tried to rise he wondered if he was dreaming. Adelram heard Asriel laughing "see look! he does not even realise he was a pawn!" Adelram forced his eyes open he rose he blinked as he saw a dreadnought standing over a word bearer crawling away. The dreadnought walked over and crushed the word bearer's body with his foot. The dreadnought looked up "oh look he is awake." Adelram blinked "Noxus? What...how? You look.. different?" Noxus chuckled "I have been blessed since I did the real work. The warband is fine." Noxus pointed with his finger.

Adelram suddenly looked around the church dead bodies were everywhere he looked to the members of the warband who followed him into the church. Their bodies were sat up resting on broken benches they were breathing steadily they were alive. Adelram scanned the room for Jedrick. Adelram recalled he was consumed by fire he saw him nearby his back on bench his head sagged to one side he was not wearing his helmet he looked like he was oddly sleeping. His armour was not melted and there was no burn scars on his skin. Noticing Jedrick was not wearing a helmet Adelram touched his face he just realised his helmet was gone, Adelram looked down to himself his armour was somewhat damaged but his wounds were largely gone.

Adelram looked up to Noxus "How?" The tendrils connected to Noxus' chassis flailed about "As I said I-we did the real work." Adelram raised his eyebrow "we?" Adelram recalled Asriel's voice he shook his head "it's impossible.. he is dead!" Someone then popped out from behind Noxus and walked forward.

He was wearing a familiar cloak. Adelram's eyes went wide slightly "you are alive.." Adelram could also see Asriel is wearing a gauntlet also and in that hand he held the gem. As Adelram saw it everything came rushing back when why he pushed so hard to reach the church he grinned his mood turning cheerful "you always surprise me..all the time! Now.. Asriel give me the gem."

Adelram held his hand out, Asriel looked at the gem a strange darkness came from the gauntlet and consumed the gem turning it black. Asriel then crushed the gem in his hand and let it crumble away. Adelram's mouth went agape his joy crumbled with it.

Adelram felt a cold fury building within him the thought of Asriel's failure came crawling back. What they had to go through to get here and he just callously destroyed the prize. Adelram walked towards Asriel who was calmly looking downward's slightly. As Adelram approached he stopped before him "it seems I have to move unto something better.. Asriel look at me...now!"

Asriel still kept his head cast downwards slightly, Adelram clenched his hands and grabbed his cloak Adelram notcied Noxus shift slightly at him grabbing Asriel. Asriel held up his hand and Noxus simply stopped. Adelram looked to Noxus and Asriel frowning "I wonder what happened between you two..." Adelram pulled off Asriel's hood his eyes were milky white mixed with a light blue hue. Adelram has not practised being a apothecary for quite some time but he could see blindness right away. Adelram shook his head "what did you do to yourself!" Adelram flicked his head to Noxus who spoke "he has been improved, he is better without the neverborn." Adelram shook his head his fury further increasing "so he is useless now!? A normal human! Who broke my prize!" Noxus stepped forward "w-"

Adelram shouted "enough! Enough!" He looked at Asriel "do you have anything to say?" Asriel slowly mouthed "what is there else to say? I broke your prize.." Adelram ground his teeth he threw Asriel across the room he crashed into the benches. Adelram walked over he picked up Asriel again he hissed "Asriel, you are now useless, pathetic! I hoped.. I hoped.." Adelram clenched his eyes shut he began throwing Asriel around the room. Asriel crashed into the walls and chairs, Adelram picked him up again Asriel was now smiling through bloodied teeth Adelram scowled "are you mocking me!? Why!" Asriel slowly raised his bare hand and wiped his blood down his face as he said "so you are my lord? The most important person?" Asriel chuckled slightly "you hit like a child compared to him.."

Adelram's mouth hanged at the audacity of what he just said he dropped Asriel on the ground and charged his fists with psychic energy. Adelram raised it as he was about to bring it down upon Asriel he felt someone grabbing him. He looked to see it was Noxus.

Adelram slammed his fist on Noxus' hand "Put me down now!" Noxus looked down to Asriel "Beleth that is enough.." Adelram blinked "what? Beleth? What are you talking about?" Asriel slowly got up and brushed his cloak, Adelram could see his wounds are already healing. Adelram raised his eyebrow "how? the neverborn is gone.." Asriel shrugged "I don't know where I heard this but... I recall someone saying that changing fate has a cost and sometimes I wonder what the payment was." Adelram felt his mouth drying oddly "cost? fate?" Noxus sighed "I don't know what happened but.. his memories are gone and he can no longer see."

Asriel gestured "it's not that bad Noxus I will make new ones!" Adelram looked at Asriel smiling casually Adelram blinked "his memories are gone? Why? Who did this?" Adelram tapped Noxus' fist "put me down..." Noxus bought him close to his helmet "are you going to throw him around?" Adelram scowled "I can throw him around if I want to. He is mine!" Noxus sighed as his grip released, Adelram landed on his feet he looked to Asriel. Adelram walked over slowly for some reason he found it hard to reach out Adelram pulled his hand back. Adelram took a deep breath "Can you at least tell me why you broke the gem?" Asriel nodded "yes, the gem is useless."

Adelram cocked his head slightly "how? I felt it's power!" Asriel shook his head "you felt power but it was not actually there. Everything you saw while fighting was done by the great raven underground." Adelram shook his head "you are lying to avoid my displeasure aren't you? I mean you lost your memories so you could be a completely different person! You lie! I won't believe something so foolish!" Asriel frowned "this task was set by someone important your father or are you calling him foolish?" Adelram laughed "like my father would talk to someone like you! Like he would even deign a fraction of his time to you!" Noxus stomped forward and turned to face Adelram "it's true, he spoke to me." Adelram stepped back slightly "why would he speak to you two! Of all people! Why!"

Noxus sighed in annoyance "fine don't believe us but look around you tell me what you see." Adelram looked around the dead bodies and the warband who is now out cold, their screams as they were gunned down began echoing in his mind. Jedrick's screams were at the front as he was consumed in fire Adelram felt a disgusting sensation dawning on him he hissed silently "failure...." Adelram narrowed his eyes "I did not fail! How was I-" Asriel shook his head "you are making excuses it is what it is." Adelram pointed at Asriel "silence! I don't want to hear another word from you!" Noxus began laughing "Look at the person you care for the most! Look at him being obnoxious after you saved his life!"

Adelram looked to Asriel "what...?" Asriel scratched the back of his head "I don't regret it Noxus, I would do it again." Adelram eyed the both of them "what do you mean saved?" Noxus snorted "that wave of energy you felt? Was unleashed by Beleth." Adelram thought back to the sensation he was about to be shot in the head by the word bearer until it came. Adelram looked to his hands thinking and then to Asriel "That was you?" Asriel nodded slowly "yes. Your father said that might of been the only way to save the warband in turn defeating the great raven secured everyone's lives. the great raven was a greater shard of tzeentch."

Adelram began thinking of what both of them did in the background to stop the summoning of a greater shard while he was chasing.. Adelram's felt his hearts clench. Adelram clenched his eyes shut. He did not want to feel failure. He did not fail.

Adelram opened his eyes he began walking out of the church he did not even want to look at both of them. Noxus shouted "Adelram where are you going!?" Adelram looked back "it's none of your business leave me.."


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 00:28:02


Post by: shinros


Aw man

Spoiler:
what a Reunion!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 02:32:53


Post by: shinros


Chapter 52

Adelram walked down the steps of the church he did not know what to think or what else to say. Adelram thought on Asriel, Noxus called him Beleth he wondered what exactly happened during the point he died up to now. Overall he knows his father is involved in this.
Adelram scowled at the thought of his father talking to those two, thinking upon it fear began clenching his hearts. If his father turned to those two what does his father think of him? Adelram scanned the now silent battlefield. Bodies of loyalists and those who followed chaos littered the grand plaza. Those who are not of the emperor's children their faces are agape in pure terror. If Adelram stares at the faces of his warband it's like they are sleeping.

Adelram walked down searching for Marthas, he would know what to say. Adelram looked in the direction of where he last saw him. Adelram walked about until he saw a mist leaving a body. Adelram ran over to it and he was right the mist is coming from Marthas weapon.
His armour is cracked in several sections and his eyes are closed. Adelram reached down and shook him. Marthas groaned slightly, Adelram shook him again. Until eventually he sat up. Marthas rubbed his eyes "am I dead...?" Adelram shook his head "No. Up you get we need to talk."
Adelram sat on the steps of the church with Marthas staring at the dead bodies he explained what Asriel and Noxus just told him. Marthas stroked his chin "they are telling the truth." Adelram frowned "really? I-" Marthas shook his head "think about it we were lambs being lead into a slaughter." Marthas chuckled "I thought you be happy that Asriel is alive."

Adelram rubbed his neck and sighed "I was until he destroyed the gem." Marthas interjected "fake gem you mean?" Adelram grit his teeth "fine, a fake, useless gem." Marthas gripped his weapon tightly "I more concerned with his memory loss and the name change." Adelram shrugged "he is useless now anyway.. everything that was useful and good about him is gone." Marthas frowned at Adelram "is that what you think?" Marthas gestured his hands over the dead "if Noxus and Asriel did not do this we would not be alive having this discussion. Or are you too afraid to admit you failed?"

Adelram wiped his hands down his face this is why he sometimes hates talking with Marthas. He is blunt but at times it's needed. Adelram sighed "things were going well.. raiding two worlds successfully and then this.." Marthas nodded "yes but at times we will fail and it's how we deal with that failure is what matters. You cannot become the best without it."Adelram could not see Marthas wishes to ask Adelram something "what is it Marthas?" Marthas breathed in then out "I will take Asriel off your hands if you don't want him." Adelram clenched one of his hands "he is mine Marthas." Marthas leaned back slightly "I wonder about that..." Adelram raised his eyebrow "what do you mean?"

Marthas rested his weapons across his lap "I believe that y- our father took everything away from Asriel. As a lesson of sorts." Adelram narrowed his eyes "A lesson!? what sort of lesson!?" Marthas crossed his arms "sometimes you don't realise the value of something until you lose it."
Adelram scowled "I did not lose anything of worth!" Marthas sighed "so you are denying the use your father see's in Asriel?" Adelram was about to mouth a response but looked down. Adelram looked to his beaten armour. Marthas continued "I have known him for a long time, Asriel is the sort of person you can rely on. He will give his all to us and if something threatens us he will deal with it."

Adelram squinted his eyes Lily said something similar he began thinking back if he did not push him away and embraced the task he was doing with Noxus this may have not happened. Adelram clenched his eyes shut and now Asriel literally broke himself on the anvil to ensure they survived.
Adelram laughed "so his name is Beleth now.. well that's what Noxus calls him.." Marthas stroked his chin "I doubt you will force him to change his name back I assume that is the new name your father gave him so your hands are tied. Everything you done to him was taken away. Still the core of who he is has not changed."

Adelram looked over to Marthas "core?" Marthas nodded "He still pushed to save us even though he did not even know us. Think of it this way Adelram this is a fresh start." Adelram mouthed Marthas' words "fresh start.." Adelram sighed as he got to his feet "Marthas go wake the rest of the warband. Loot what you can from the dead have it gathered and taken to the ship. I need to think."

Marthas stood up and nodded "very well." Marthas walked down the stairs towards his sleeping brothers. All that are now alive due to Asriel's and Noxus' actions. Adelram creased his brow in frustration.

Beleth stood with Noxus at a table in the church playing regicide, Beleth found the board and pieces in another room. He had no idea how to play the game but he felt the great need to do so. The problem is that not being able to see the board made it difficult.
Noxus went through all the board positions and pieces, he also said that he would move the pieces for him if he called out the position he wanted to move it to. Beleth was quite surprised how dexterous Noxus is with his new form. They were half through the game until Noxus started to grumble "you are throwing away your pawns so your king can attack! Who does that!" Beleth frowned "hey it's how I play."

Beleth could hear Noxus moving his queen to checkmate his king. Beleth smiled "I wish to use my knight to take the piece you just moved." Noxus grunted "your knight ca- wait a minute?" Beleth frowned "you did not notice the knights protecting the king? I thought I was the blind one?"
Noxus scowled "I was distracted with how you were throwing away your pawns!" Beleth was about to speak until he felt light footsteps Beleth brow furrowed "who is that Noxus?" Noxus sighed "it's her.." Beleth tilted his head slightly "her who?" Noxus responded in annoyance "what do you want Isira?"
Beleth felt Isira walking over to the table, he heard her laughing "so you are blind!? I can't believe it! Wait until Isabella hears this!" Noxus shouted "Beleth and I are playing a game! Go away!" Beleth raised his hand "what is it Isira? what do you want?" Isira chuckled "so did you say my name because Noxus just said it? Also Beleth? That is your name now?" Beleth nodded "yes I largely don't remember anyone and Beleth is my name. I also just found out Adelram's name as he left the church."

Beleth sensed Isira leaning on the table "so you don't even remember Luke then? I am quite suprised he survived that I wonder what his history is." Beleth casually shrugged "don't know who he is and I don't care." Beleth then sensed a small tap on the table Isira said "well... I saw our Lord walking around the city he did not seem that upset with me or Isabella. He found Isabella wandering the streets he ordered her to get ready to return to the ship. Still he refused to mention a word about you I think you have fallen completely out of favour.. I wonder what he would do?"
Beleth scratched his cheek "dunno, I can't die easily anyway the great one saw to that. I mean Adelram already threw me around the church." Beleth heard Isira responding in surprise "great one? what do you mean?" Noxus scowled "he means my father."

Beleth felt the vibration vanishing as Isira got up from the table "impossible..I.." Beleth frowned "you know.. you are slightly annoying me. Adelram can hate me if he wants that won't change how I feel and what I need to do within this warband." Isira began laughing harshly "the warband most likely want your head! They will press Adelram to kill you. Save for equipment there are no slaves to be had. Save those touched by the dark prince everyone is dead!"

Beleth rubbed his neck "Adelram won't do it I have faith in him." Beleth heard Isira scowling "then you don't know him! he spared you for now but just wait.." Beleth held his hands together "I don't remember the time I spent with Adelram but his father said this to me. "I chose you because out of all the humans he surrounds himself with you are the best. The one who's vision is clear who constantly holds fast to their desire, I can rely on you to stand by my son's side and let no one tell you otherwise.""

As Beleth said those words Isira's laughter died on her lips "he.. really said that? To you?" Beleth nodded "yes just before he tore my intestines out." Noxus chuckled "he really did that?" Beleth frowned "yes.. since where I was I could not exactly die he increased my resilience so I would not expire or fall apart after each lesson." Beleth recalled that he has done far worse that was the least painful one.

Beleth folded his arms "so Isira are you done gloating?" Beleth could hear her biting her lip "we shall see what he does." Beleth then felt Isira walking away each step still light. Beleth looked back to the board "It's your turn." Noxus sighed "I conceade you took my queen. I was hindging my strategy on the queen taking your king."

Beleth laughed "so it's my win!" Noxus grunted "your first win. Let's go again." Beleth smiled as he heard Noxus putting pieces back in it's original positions.

Belaris followed Rafael who is now walking away from the church, Belaris walked up to Rafael "we are not going to the church?" Rafael shook his head "no. we are leaving I can no longer sense the gem but I do sense roaming heretics. We don't have the forces to take all of them on." Belaris clenched his hand "we cou-" Rafael tapped the haft of his staff on the ground "I understand inquisitor but look around you, everyone is dead and if our cruiser was not warded all the serfs would of died. The serfs are reporting that no life signs can even be detected on imperium ships surrounding them."

Belaris sighed "very well." Rafael nodded "we are almost at the evacuation point." The grey knights and Belaris with his acolytes reached an open area. A sliver thunderhawk was waiting for them. The bay door was open. As they walked on Belars could not help but feel failure he ground his teeth in anger he failed completely and utterly. Rafael spoke calmly to Belaris "it is failure inquisitor but we will punish the heretics for committing such an action. We recoup and return when we are ready."

Belaris nodded slowly "yes, we will make sure they pay." The thunderhawk bay door closed as they set off to the grey knight cruiser.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 02:33:06


Post by: shinros


Part 2 epilogue incoming!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 03:11:40


Post by: shinros


Part 2 Epilouge

Adelram walked with Asriel to his room it was odd watching him walk with his head cast down slightly. Adelram hated staring at his milky white eyes. Many in the warband wanted him to kill Asriel. Even if he raised the point they are alive because of him. Their need for fresh slaves were overwhelming their senses.

Adelram gripped the object he was going to give to Asriel, Adelram held what Marthas said at the forefront of his mind. This is a fresh start. Adelram reached the door he opened it and gestured inside "You first." Asriel slowly walked in. Asriel looked around "hmm quite spacious...wait... something is on the desk." Adelram walked into the room the door closed behind him.

Adelram watched Asriel stare at the stack of books on the desk. They contained recorded journal entries over the century and finally Asriel unhooked his personal journal from his body. Asriel stared at it, Adelram felt his hand reaching forward he wondered what he was thinking. Asriel is blind he can't read the words he has written, or write new ones. Adelram suddenly found himself thinking that it all of this started with him reading his journal his hand edged closer to Asriel until Asriel called out "stop!"
Adelram froze, Asriel spoke softly "I am not a broken thing that needs comfort." Adelram reached back "so what will you do with all of them?" Asriel shrugged "thinking of burning them." Asriel's free hand lit up, Adelram shouted "stop!" Asriel froze the flame in his hand dying "why? I can't read it. I can't write anything in them. What's the point keeping it?"

Adelram did not know why he shouted for him to stop, Adelram felt his hand shaking the one that bore the object he is going to give to Asriel. The same hand that was shaking just like when he died. Adelram remembered when he stuffed Asriel in a cage without thinking. He belittled and hated him when he found Asriel again on Zatos. Finally he dies comes back even with his memory gone he is still there waiting ready to serve him. It's a vicious cycle he pushes in his own way but no matter what Asriel is always there when he is needed.
Asriel held his journal in his hand "what is it? You don't want me to burn it?" Adelram prepared the object in his hand. Adelram nodded slowly "before you do, I want to give you something, also introductions are in order." Adelram watched Asirel raise his eyebrow, Adelram walked over "I am Adelram the Lord of Sin and you are?"

Adelram watched Asriel furrow his brow, Adelram wanted to hear what name he would say he spoke slowly "My name is Beleth my lord." Adelram's hearts sank when he said it for some reason they twisted in a knot. Adelram took in a deep breath "I see, so Beleth I wish to recognise the exploits you did on the surface."

Beleth stepped back slightly he looked away "it's nothing don't worry about it. I don't need a reward." Adelram shook his head "no, thinking about it what happened on Athor was failure on my part. I would not be standing here if it was not for what you and Noxus did on the surface." Adelram walked foward and opened his palm he looked at the object he preared it was a pin shaped in the symbol of their legion. Adelram attached it to his cloak.

Adelram watched Beleth touch it gently he felt the symbol and rubbed it gently in his hand. He covered his hand over his eyes tears began rolling down his cheeks "dammit! why am I crying!?" Adelram saw this perhaps, just perhaps Asriel still exists a small fragment is still there. Adelram placed his hands behind his back "you will serve me but there is a requirement."

Beleth wiped the tears away from his eyes "what?" Adelram nodded slowly "from now on as long as you wear that symbol, just call me Adelram. You can refer to me in a casual manner where ever within your mind in front of my brothers." Beleth nodded slowly "yes Adelram."
Adelram could not help but smile slightly "Beleth are you still going to burn the books?" Beleth tightened his grip on his journal "may I ask a favour?" Adelram inclined his head "what is it?" Beleth held his journal out "can.. can you read it to me?"
Adelram was almost thrown off guard by his request, Adelram reached for the journal he grasped it. He slowly took it from his hand opening the first page, the very first entries from before he was taken by the warband it is still there. Adelram closed the journal he could see Beleth is waiting for his answer.

Adelram thought to smile but remembered he was blind, Adelram knelt down slightly "Beleth touch my face." Beleth slowly reached for Adelram's face, he then smiled "I shall, a better place to read it would be my chambers. Come." Adelram rose as Beleth's hand left his face. Adelram turned to the exit his room, Beleth's door opened Adelram turned his head slightly to him "Come Beleth, time is being lost." Beleth nodded while smiling his tears finally drying as he left the room with him.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 03:14:44


Post by: shinros


Part 2 done!

Spoiler:
So yeah we had something good come out of all of this! All it took was well a planet dying, Asriel getting his memories blasted to smithereens, making a group of tribal's go extinct, committing genocide on Athor's population you know the standard chaos stuff. In the end even if the raid turned out terrible majority of the warband is alive that's what counts right? Right? I mean it's a fair trade for their lives. Changing fate has a cost.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 06:56:09


Post by: Dayknight



fething fantastic man and the ending had me in tears! Was sooo hoping adelram would read to asriel maybe Ariel can get a tape recorder in the future haha!


So Is this it** for the Lord of sin?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/18 08:29:25


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:

fething fantastic man and the ending had me in tears! Was sooo hoping adelram would read to asriel maybe Ariel can get a tape recorder in the future haha!


So Is this is for the Lord of sin?


Glad you enjoyed it, trust me I was thinking heavily on how to handle the reunion and the epilogue.

Nope. I am enjoying it too much more is coming. I am not working on my AOS story until malign portents stuff comes out Death lore is pretty bare bones in a sense.

Honestly at first this was just meant to be a short story for my warband but I just kept it going(a mate said I should) one thing that stuck with me when I first started to write it when people talk of the god dedicated champions in the lore they speak of Arhiman, Typhus and Kharn fondly people never mention Lucius. They have bad traits and good traits but they enjoy them as characters. When it comes to Lucius? All people have is scorn and overall and talk about how much they hate him.(I personally like Lucius but I feel I am the minority) I am getting to the feeling with Josh Reynolds Fabius series people have far more interest in Fabius than Lucius.

So to write Adelram as a character I wanted people to feel invested in him but also show he is still you know a prick at times. Adelram has to a hard time admitting he is wrong or when he messed up which normally Asriel now Beleth points out in his own way with various consequences coming forward. Plus being a chaos space marine and a follower of slaanesh I mean he is still evil well I hope people view Beleth and Adelram as evil psychopaths. Anyway more is coming soonTM(I have to plan the general story of the next book).


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/20 01:10:14


Post by: shinros


Book 3 Lord of Corruption

Prolouge

Tape 1

Beleth: right this is just a practice recording. I had Caius whip me together a device also Adelram shifts slightly whenever I tell him that I am no longer attempting to record anything. His steps turn extremely light when he get's upset when it comes to me. When I told him I am doing these tape recordings they returned to normal. Adelram often tries not to show how he feels but with how I am? I know when he is not being honest with himself. Now anyway where should I start?

Since killing everyone on Athor along with Noxus and I saving the warband. I had several attempts on my life problem is that it's quite hard to sneak up on someone that knows you are coming since power armour is a dead giveaway. It took Adelram actually maiming an Astartes for it to stop. Still when he read my journal to me I found that I was quite an interesting individual also somewhat naive at the same time. One interesting note is my "friendship" with Marthas. It's quite odd that even now I get on well with him.

Noxus and I still play regicide from time to time and he told me he had a slave paint the door of his room. Honestly I found it amusing he said the words were "Father spoke to me first." The nice thing about it is that he is no longer chained to the wall they resized his door so he can leave when he wants. Now onto Luke? He was quite shocked at all the lies surrounding him and since he was not with the warband there was a bedlam to claim him as a slave. He was fortunate that the ship captain Lily took a liking to him, something about finding a proper husband at last. Luke does state I taught him a few things he is an interesting individual I still wonder how he survived on Athor.

To move on soon as he was claimed by Lily Adelram made everyone back off to their displeasure. Isira still act's like she is important and.. she is annoying not much else to say there. Isabella is still making attempts to court me which is.. frustrating. Plus the added fact Sitri is attempting the same thing but she is far more aggressive.

Naberius is preaching to me about how wonderful Lord Fulgrim is and I don't need him to tell me such a thing. I already know he is. What else... oh yes! Camila and Adelram are still messing up with the music they are attempting to create. Adelram is considering to add more intsruments to the song issue is finding people who play an instrument.

Onto my friend Marthas he is still abusing the Astartes that go to the temple many flock there like sheep but since Athor he had me... well.. "help". The help is largely using me as a gating process if they can't injure me they can't join plus fixing extreme injuries. Now Silas? Silas does not exactly like talking to me for some reason, since Adelram gave me the pin he avoids talking to me at all. Something about me not being worthy to have it, honestly I have a fun idea on how to deal with him!

Finally Jedrick? Jedrick is well..? He shouts a lot, orders the cultists forces around puts them through insane training regimes all of the normal stuff according to my Journal. Until I met him personally and he saw my fangs. The first thing he wanted is a comparison he literally held my mouth open. After a moment he walked away grunting.

Sooo that it for the first tape! Hmm I can get used to doing this...


Tape 2


Beleth:Ok... tape 2 I am in the temple I wanted to record what it is like for Astartes living here and training here.

[sounds of screams. broken limbs and the clashing of blades]

Beleth:Sounds pretty interesting! well.. I think I found one he seems to be checking over his sword.

[sound of footsteps]

Beleth:Hello! Random Astartes number 2! I want to ask a few things...

Random Astartes 2: Are you mocking me!? Leave me!

Beleth:Well.. yes a little.. I just want to know how you find Marthas' training and how you find it living here!

[sounds of large footsteps walking away]

Beleth:See just what a minute! Fine... you can break Silas' guard if shift slightly to the left and do a feint.

[footsteps stop]

Random Astartes 2:Wait? Really?

Beleth:Well... that's just one part of how to do it... Sooo do you want to answer my question?

Random Astartes 2: The training is hard but the pain experienced is a lesson. I found I have made progress in my blade work compared to fighting those that follow Jedrick.

[high pitched scream]

Beleth:Oh! He just got his arm hacked off! See you!

Random Astartes 2: Wait! You were going to explain how to break his guard!

[sounds of foosteps]

Beleth:Random Astartes 4! Please how do you feel right now with your arm removed! Did you see it coming!?

[sounds of grunting and panting]

Randrom Astartes 4:Hurry up and heal me you fool! Stop standing around with that thing!

Beleth:Well... if I heal it right away you won't reflect on how you got your arm chopped off. Lord Fulgrim said expreincing pain is wine for the soul.

Random Astartes 4:I do need you to tell me that! Also don't speak about my father! You are not worthy!

Beleth:well... he spoke to me and not to you so...

Random Astartes 5:You should listen to the human... you are slow and weak!

Random Astartes 4:Shut up! I would of..

[sounds of heavy footsteps and soft singing]

Beleth:Oh Marthas! Hey!

Marthas:So what is going on here?

Random Astartes 4:Adelram's pet is not healing my arm!

Marthas:How did it get chopped off?

Random Astartes 4: erm...

Marthas:Beleth don't heal his wound for another hour. Ballard you will continue to pratice.

Random Astartes 4: I will get you for this human...

Marthas:Make that two hours.

Ballard:[sigh]

Tape 3

[sounds of music, screams and the wailing of souls]

Adelram:Yes! I almost!

[sound of missed note]

Adelram: Dammit!

[sounds of a smashed table]

Camila:I think we made a lot of progress!

Adelram: I think I need another instrument but what...? Beleth are you recording this?

Beleth:Erm, yes.

Adelram:Give me the tape...

Beleth:I almost still have an hour left!

[sounds of small scuffle]


Tape 4

Beleth:[sigh]there goes a wasted tape...

Adelram:I will be keeping this with me for now. Also I want you here at every session

Beleth:Every single one?

Adelram:Yes.

Beleth:[sigh]

[ship alarm sound begins to ring]

Adelram:[laughs] Finally! We found one! Get everyone ready!

Beleth:Right! I think everyone will finally forget Athor after this.





Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/20 09:35:05


Post by: shinros


Also I am going to try and make chapters longer in Book 3


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/21 22:42:27


Post by: shinros


sorry I wish to apologise the first chapter of book 3 is going to be delayed somewhat. I have learned of the power of google docs and I am at work going over the last two books and updating them.

I was reading the first one on the train and then I saw so many errors and stuff I wanted to change etc. A mate told me of google docs and what it can do and I went.

So far I have been doing everything in word pad. >_<


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/23 01:19:42


Post by: shinros


Chapter 1

Salvador trotted to his master's room his weapon has been serviced and as always now comes the moment of dread. He wondered if his master would beat him this time perhaps he might have found a flaw with his work, or he is in grip of the nails that pound his mind. Salvador stopped he wondered how his sister Fatima is doing since being taken from their world and enslaved she has taken well to the masters. She has embraced the warrior cult and has finally been given a weapon to take into battle, yet Salvador could never be like her. Fatima always adapts and looks forward despite the situation. It's how they survived before they were enslaved when their parents died Fatima pushed him to street perform with his cello, and she ran odd jobs in turn to keep food on the table.

Salvador continued walking, he remembered the attack vividly the crumbling buildings, screams of civilians he recalled when the world eaters hacked apart any of the soldiers that got in their way. The space marines soon arrived, but they stood no chance. When he saw the space marines dying all hope left him but not Fatima.
.
When his master looked to kill him, Fatima picked up a pipe to attack him he beat her with ease but perhaps it was that action that got him to spare their lives. What surprised Salvador most of all when he was enslaved is how... organised the World Eaters are. Every person enslaved is forced to learn a trade or become a fighter. Shockingly even breeding is heavily regulated the world eaters are aware of their state and the possible accidents that can occur. In other words at times they accidently or even intentionally kill those who serve them Salvadore was lucky that his master only tends to hit him when irritated.

Salvadore thought on how life is on the ship since learning to service his master’s weapon he came to realise every task all joy and for-fulfilment is sucked away all you have is your task, your work and you will complete it on pain of death. On this ship every person is a cog in a machine, it has to be this way since the masters find it hard to function correctly. Those who have been lost to the nails completely are chained to walls. When battle comes they are sedated and awoken on the landing points.

As Salvador's feet clacked on the metal floor of the ship his mind always drifts to this aberration, this mutation. When his legs changed to that of a beast and his feet turned to hooves Fatima thought that this should be the time he should join the cult. She pressed him that perhaps it's the favour of k- no the blood god or a sign from him.

Salvador shook his head he mumbled “don't think of his name. Remember the headaches.” he sighed as he continued to walk to his master's room. His master Tarben Headtaker. His master also thought that the change would stop making him a coward that he should take after his sister. Salvador held the weapon tightly the chain axe his master used to murder and take the heads of the innocent. At times Salvador wondered if they would be saved, it was a small hope one that he held when he is in his room by himself he mutters small prayers to the god-emperor. He did not know why he kept doing this perhaps it did not happen yet because he does not hear the words of mutants.

Salvador sighed he stopped in front of a door, his hand slowly drifted to the button to open it. As he pressed the button the light chimed green and the door slid open. As Salvador walked in the thick smell of blood and old meat hit his nose if he gagged it would cause his master's displeasure. Salvador looked around the room his heart skipping a beat he could see his master's shrine to the blood god, made of the skulls he has taken in battle.

The skull on top of the shrine is always replaced by a stronger opponent his master says that the blood god prefers the skulls of the strong to be offered. Salvador continued to scan the room until laying his eyes on his master's chair he tends try to sleep when the nails are not aggravating him and even then he tells him he has dreams. Dreams of running across a field of skulls, killing and spilling the blood of the enemies of the blood god.

Still wait elated Salvador more is that his master is not present he quickly looked to the weapon stand and placed his chain axe upon it. He quickly moved to leave he wanted to avoid coming face to face with him.

As Salvador re-entered the hallway he began quickly walking to his room yet even though a sense of relief gripped his heart it turned to dread as he saw two people walking towards him. He gulped “Farah.., Dayton.. I was just heading back to my room.”
Farah and Dayton were cult commanders within the warrior cult. Both wore makeshift armour and wore chains with the rune of the blood god dangling from it. Salvador tried to keep his gaze cast away from it, looking at the rune sometimes causes a headache or a nosebleed. Both Farah and Dayton wielded close combat weapons, when looking at their features Farah's hair is greasy and her skin is fair. Dayton if you could see his skin tone is dark his helmet fixed into a scowl obscured his features.

Farah grinned “so tell me little coward your big sister is not here to protect you. How about we have a little talk?” Dayton snickered as Farah grinned “aye! The weak have no place with the world eaters how about we have a discussion so you can become a real man?” Salvador found his breathing has begun to slow the cult warriors like picking on the workers or in other words beating them up since those who do not fight are deemed weak.

Those who are weak have no place, fighting and killing for the blood god is his true demand his main want. The cult also teaches that the followers that they should find ways to make workers strong so they can truly follow the blood god. Salvador whimpered slightly he thought he could get by today without any bruises, he clenched his eyes shut as the fist came his way and the pain began. Salvador rubbed his eyes and arms, it's clear that he most likely has a black eye, his eye stung with pain. Salvador held his tears back to cry is almost a death sentence on the ship, Salvador cast his head downwards as he trotted back to his room until he bumped into something hard. Salvador fell to his bottom as he heard a grunt from whatever he bumped into.

Salvador looked up to see it is his master and his sister, looking at them his sister looks cross and his master? With his helmet it always looked like he is in a state of anger and fury. Salvador found it hard still looking at his master. The armour the colour of blood and gore, his second weapon his blade stained with dry blood and the skull on his belt. Salvador swore that at times within the black eyes of the skull he saw a red light. His master gave a chilling chuckle “tell me Fatima is your coward of a brother still getting beat up?” Salvador looked to Fatima her fair skin has some grime, and her brown hair is also tied back. Since joining the warrior cult and rising in the ranks rapidly her eyes have turned red, she also gained a stinging glare.

Salvador hated looking at the black rune of the blood god on her forehead she told him that she did not actually tattoo it to Salvador's shock. Fatima walked forward and knelt down still holding her frown. Salvador watched as his sister hit him across the head “how many times do I have to tell you to defend yourself!? Weakness is a cancer on this ship!”

Fatima rose sighing in annoyance “Khorne gave you those feet for a reason, but all you use it for is running away! That's all you do! Run!” Salvador grit his teeth he knew since his legs changed he could run faster than normal. What his master and sister want is for him to run into combat faster. Salvador looked away “yes Fatima..”

Fatima removed her blade and smacked it on the wall startling Salvador “you say yes but I know you! I know you are just going to sit in your room! Twiddle your thumbs away! Now Get up!” Salvador got to his feet as he did so Fatima slapped him across the head again. Fatima looked at Salvador's face fully and spat at the ground “look at your face! Pathetic!”
Salvador cast his head down slightly until he heard the footsteps of his master coming forward “you have made your point Fatima. Now slave be glad that your sister is doing this today instead of me. You would get far more than a hit across the head, now has my weapon been serviced?” Salvador nodded slowly his master shouted at him “Don't you have a tongue slave!? I asked you a question!” Salvador stammered “Y-yes master! It has been c-completed! Your weapon is waiting for you in y-your chambers!”

His master nodded “good, if I found you have done something incorrectly...” Salvador gulped “I checked it over several times before bringing it to your room..” Fatima shook her head “at least you can do something.” His master looked down to Fatima “enough of dealing with your brother we should discuss your advancement...” His master and Fatima then walked by him without another word.

Salvador waited in place he waited until their footsteps turned distant before he started to walk back to his room. Salvador made his way to the door, the worker block was grimey to walk in and the lights flickered they was also no power to his door oddly enough he had to pull it open manually only warriors had rooms where the door opens by itself. Salvador pulled and slowly the door came open as he stepped into his room he turned around to close the door.

Salvador walked into his small room, what greeted him was his desk bearing his tools and his old bed. Salvador sat down on his poor iron bed, the mattress was hard and uncomfortable to sleep on. Salvador opened his hands as tears began to roll down his cheeks he wanted this to end. He wished deep down that someone, anyone would save him. Salvador smothered his face with his hands, and he wept.

As, Salvador cried he heard a sound it grew in intensity until he heard shouts outside of his room that they are being attacked. Salvador could not believe it he wondered what was happening a strange emotion gripped him an emotion he thought to push away he felt hope. Salvador slowly walked to his door and placed his ear to the door he could hear other slaves moving to their rooms and locking their doors.

He then heard the marching of feet if he listened carefully he could hear the voices of the cult warriors that they are being attacked. Salvador's hearts sank when he heard the name of the group who is attacking them. The emperor's children.

Salvador began hyperventilating his sister told him stories of them spoken by their priests Fatima hoped perhaps by telling him some of their stories and teachings it would make him join. In the end the opposite occurred, what Salvador understood is that they are a hated enemy of the world eater legion disgusting dengerates that commit unspeakable violations upon those they capture. Fatima even pressed further it's better to die fighting them than to be captured. Salvador began panicking he looked around his room wondering what he should do. If he left his room now the cult warriors will put him at the front as fodder.

Salvador looked to his bed he ran over and pulled his cover down slightly to obscure the gap under his bed. He then bent down and hid underneath it covering his mouth. Salvador waited and waited for what felt like an age. He heard sound of the ship groaning and twisting after several minutes came gunshots and the sounds of people dying afterwards came the horrific screams, people begging for the enemy to end their lives. He heard voices ordering to try to take as many people alive as possible. Then from a room next to him he heard soft gun shots and several people collapsing to the ground.

Salvador grit his teeth when he heard that Salvador thought of his desk and the tools he uses to service his master's weapon. He could, perhaps..? Salvador shook his head he did not have the fortitude to do it.

Salvador began crying again he had to keep quiet they might pass by, he took small breaths he found his heart rate has begun to steady until his door opened. Salvador heard footsteps entering his room one is clearing wearing power armour, another seemed like they were wearing no shoes at all.

Salvador held his breath as they spoke the person that spoke first their voice seemed soft and gentle at the same time even though it came through a helmet “Beleth you said someone is in here?” Salvador heard bare footsteps moving around the room the other person spoke his voice was similar but more firm “yes Adelram, somewhere in here.”
The person Salvador knows to be Adelram said “I see considering how you see, where are they?” Salvador then heard a chuckle coming from Beleth “well... they are under the bed.” Salvador then felt someone grabbing his leg and pulling him out from under the bed, Salvador screamed.

Salvador walked the halls of the ship the alarm still chiming, the person he knows to be Beleth held a blade at his neck. When Salvador looks at him he is wearing no shoes around his ankles are spiked leather straps, he is wearing black three-quarter length trousers along with a carapace vest. What stood out most of all was the gauntlet, skull helmet and black cloak that moved unnaturally.

Salvador tried not to make eye contact with the Astartes known as Adelram yet for some reason his eyes drift to him wondering how an Astartes can have such a soft voice. Compared to his master he sounds like an angel his armour looked maintained along with the lush black robe and the pink and black colouring of his armour is also pristine. What kept Salvador in check were the stories he heard from Fatima in that context this Adelram, must look horrific under the armour. Beleth looked to him “why did you hide under a bed?” Salvador stammered “i-i don't know.” tears rolled down Salvador's cheeks.


Beleth shrugged “Adelram, this is the last section right?” Adelram nodded “yes Jedrick is making a final sweep. This young man here is the last slave in this section, we are making our way to the docking bay.” Salvador wondered if he should run he might be able to possibly run away, he did not want to know what they are planning to do with him.
They walked until in the distance he saw a familiar Astartes his master, a mix of fear and happiness gripped Salvador. His master walked forward “I am Tarben! Tarben Headtaker exalte-” As his master was shouting out his title Beleth and Adelram entered a discussion “Beleth I will handle this.” Beleth shook his head “Adelram, I think I can beat him, you worked hard finding this ship.”

Salvador in horror looked to Beleth he seemed like a normal human how could he take on an Astartes? Adelram shook his head “no-” Beleth interrupted “fine there is a way to settle this.” Adelram sighed “why are we doing this?” Beleth responded “well.. to decide who kills the world eater.” Salvador watched as Beleth and Adelram made a fist gesture they shook their fist three times before making a gesture. Beleth made two fingers moving them slightly and Adelram made a fist. Adelram chuckled "so I will kill him..I am quite sure you wanted to impress me by killing him yes?" Beleth scowled slightly as his head turned to him "You. slave what hand gesture is he making?" Adelram laughed "so you doubt that I beat you?" Salvador shook his head in confusion "h-h-he made a f-fist." Beleth gave a heavy sigh at his answer. Salvador then heard his master's gruff voice piercing his mind "You dare ignore me!? Are you mocking me!?"

Adelram walked towards his master drawing his blade and he readied himself it ignited with purple fire. His master drew his chain axe and charged Adelram. As his master attacked Adelram with a downward slash, Adelram casually parried his strike and planted his blade into his throat. Adelram hissed "burn!" Salvador watched as his master is consumed by purple fire he screamed, Salvador thought he would never see or hear the day of his master screaming in agony. Adelram removed his blade as his master slumped to the floor dead. Salvador looked at his dead master a sense of happiness gripped him until he remembered that a cultist warrior of the emperor's children held a blade at his neck.

Adelram walked back shrugging “did not take too long, now let's make our way to the docking bay area.” Beleth nodded while grumbling “I could've killed him...” Salvador wondered why they both are so casual with each other. Salvador thought of his sister and his now dead master, he still expected her to call him master or lord. Plus she never talks to him in such a casual manner.

The only respect his master gives her is that he calls her by name instead of slave. Salvador found his train of thought breaking as they began walking again towards the docking bay. As they entered the docking bay he saw workers along with cultist warriors huddled and sat down together in a group their hands were bound. Beleth and Adelram bought him to towards the group, Adelram then bound his hands with spiked manacles. Salvador then felt himself being pushed into the group, Salvador looked around the docking bay as Astartes and cultists have guns trained on them. Salvador could see Adelram and Beleth are in discussion until an Astartes who wore bore a horned helmet along with a fur pelt wrapped at his waist came out of the hall with a head.

The cultist warriors shouted "he has the head of the leader! How!?" Salvador could see all the cultist warriors are now in discussion. Some whispered that the Astartes bearing the head must be the leader of those who attacked them. Salvador has never seen the leader of the war band his whole world on this ship were the cultist warriors who beat him up, his sister and now his dead master. As Salvador thought of his sister he looked around the crowd wondering if she is here or was killed in battle. He prayed that she was alive he would not know what to do if she died, Salvador panicked until he heard screaming. Out of the darkness of the corridor came a hooded Astartes pulling someone by a chained manacle around their neck it was his sister screaming that she will kill them. Her hands were also bound. the Astartes pulled her by the chain roughly dragging her towards him and then pushing her into the crowd and conveniently right into him.

Salvador held Fatima as she roughly struggled in his arms she even tried to hit him it took him calling her name to calm her down “Fatima! Fatima! It's me Salvador!” Fatima slowly stopped trying to hit him and looked at him the fury draining from her face “Salvador...?” Salvador nodded “yes it is me...” Fatima looked to the guns trained on them she frowned “where is our master?" Salvador did not know how to answer that in whether a regretful or hateful manner so instead he tried to speak in the flattest tone possible "dead. he is dead Fatima."

Fatima nodded slowly "I see who killed him?" Salvador slowly pointed to the Astartes known as Adelram, Fatima frowned "I see, did he fight gloriously to the end?" Salvador slowly answered he lied "yes." Salvador wondered how Fatima could care for their master the only good thing that has come out of this attack is that he is dead. As he lied he could see Fatima nodding in satisfaction. Salvador gave the strongest smile he could muster he then looked around to those gathered by the emperor's children many of the workers are crying and the cultist warriors are just spitting curses.

Salvador then heard footsteps approaching them, It was Adelram he spread out his arms “greetings slaves! I am Adelram leader of this host!” Salvador's eyes shot wide with the shock that he is the leader of their group, Adelram continued speaking “You have been gathered since you are receiving a new honour! Instead of serving the dogs of the blood god you will be put work in my host! Or… serving the needs of your new master! You will slave for us with smiles on your faces! You will die for us grinning as your life slips away under our toil!”

Adelram lowered his hands as Salvador heard the docking bay hatch doors being linked with the emperor's children ship.

As the ships locked together the door opened and even more Astartes came out they were surrounded and escorted unto the ship. Salvador felt Fatima holding his red shirt tightly looking at her face she was biting her lip slightly. This is the first time Salvador has ever seen Fatima afraid. As they were escorted onto the ship the aroma that assaulted Salvador's nose it was not the smell of oil, blood and piss that he has known on the world eater ship. The aroma of the emperor's children ship was sweet and easy on the nose Salvador wanted to breathe in it more. Salvador looked to his sister her face is screwed into disgust she spat "this ship smells disgusting. Horrid even, it suits the degenerates."

All of them were gathered in the centre of the emperor's children docking bay, Salvadore began staring at people working in the docking bay they looked well kept compared to those on the world eater ship. As the emperor's children's forces came through the docking bay hatch door they surrounded them and trained their guns on them.

Salvador watched as the last Astartes came through the docking bay hatch door it closed and began unlinking itself from the world eater ship. Salvador's heart was skipping beats as now he has possibly transferred into another hell a worse hell than the one before.

Adelram then walked in front of them he removed his helmet and glancing up his visage shocked Salvador. It was not the horrors that Fatima told him of but something entirely different. Staring at Adelram's face he felt a strange hope that possibly the stories might just be stories. As Adelram began to speak he felt weak in the knee's "Now let's see..." his sister hit him in the arm and hissed quietly "Salvador don't let his face fool you! He is a true monster! How they are underneath is the opposite of what you see before you!"
The sting of his sister hitting him bought him back to reality he watched Adelram stroking his chin as he said "right I will be checking each of them!" As Adelram said those words a collective groan of annoyance erupted from the emperor's children Astartes. The Astartes wearing the horned helmet and pelt walked towards Adelram "Adelram, why not just ask them!? Or read their minds!?" Adelram turned "Jedrick, for one they could lie and two forcibly reading their minds could cause damage."

Salvador watched Jedrick shake his head "fine, fine. Do what you need to do." Adelram grasped Jedrick's shoulder pad "since you killed the leader I will let you take one extra." Jedrick who now became jubilant said "Ok! Fine take as much time as you need!" Jedrick walked away whistling.

Salvador watched as Adelram began taking the hands of the slaves and cultist warriors staring at them for a few moments moving to each of them one by one. Until he eventually reached him, Fatima stood in his way and he simply pushed her aside, she hit the ground with a thud. Salvador began shaking in fear he felt the need to run but remembered the guns being trained on him still being this close to Adelram the leader of this warband Salvador caught a noseful of Adelram's musk it is intoxicating. Adelram grabbed his hands and looked down at them.

Adelram began mouthing something he looked at him his black eyes piercing him "these hands... hmm.." Salvador's mouth trembled until he asked "have you played an instrument before?" His voice was so gentle for some reason Salvador could not help but answer "y-yes, in the past before..." Adelram nodded "before the dogs of khorne took you and put you to work? Not realising your talent? Now can you tell me which instrument you played?"

Salvador nodded slowly "a-a cello, I used to play a cello." Adelram removed his hands and began stroking his chin "I see.." Adelram picked Fatima up from her feet and checked her hands he frowned and eventually moved to the next until he visited every single person. Adelram went back to his original position and pointed "you!" Salvador jumped slightly "m-me?" Adelram nodded "come forward."

Salvador trotted forward he gulped, Adelram then did something that felt wrong he smiled such a smile made it feel like he could trust him "what is your name?" Salvador spoke "m-my name is Salvador." Adelram nodded "you will serve me from now on." Salvador's eyes went wide he began shaking in fear tears ran down his cheeks he imagined since he is the leader he must be far worse compared to everyone else.

As his sister said underneath he is the opposite of how he looks, Adelram turned his head slightly "Beleth! Escort Salvador to my chambers!" Beleth walked over he gestured to follow him “come follow me” Salvador followed Beleth before he left the docking bay area Salvador looked to his sister for possibly the last time, Fatima’s face is filled with pure hatred and fury it looked almost daemonic as she gazed at Adelram.

Salvador walked with Beleth in silence until Beleth spoke "you are very lucky Salvador." Salvador looked up "am I? Really? He is going to torture me isn't he?" Beleth shook his head "no. you are going to help with his music you are fortunate as I said." Salvador's mouth hanged slightly it's been ages since he last played but he was in disbelief "really? you must be lying? So those stories aren't true then?"

Beleth stopped suddenly and removed his helmet, he clipped it to his belt and turned around what Salvador saw is a face that looked slighter older than he is along with milky white blue eyes.

Salvador mouthed slowly "you are blind?" Salvador swore again he may of accidentally offended him Beleth nodded "yes I am blind." Salvador begin thinking perhaps he could run away hide on the ship, Beleth then shook his head "don't get the idea of running I can easily hunt you down, your strange feet are a dead give away.”

Salvador looked to his hooves "I did not choose to become like this..." Beleth shrugged "in this life you have far more choices than you did with the imperium." Salvador could not help but frown life was hard back home but it was preferable than being here enslaved to Astartes.


Salvador moved back to the old topic "On the stories among the cultist warriors there is talk of the emperor's children they.. do things.." Salvador cursed his curiosity got the better of him he hoped that he has not accidentally insulted Beleth's master. Salvador’s hands began to quiver in fear.

Salvador watched Beleth cock his head slightly "hmm.. well about the stories they are true." Salvador's mouth fell agape, Beleth waved his hand " I know you are making a face. The stories are true but as I said you are lucky the things you heard about is going to happen to everyone else not deemed useful. Anyway the pain inflicted on them will be good for them they will soon enjoy it."

Salvador became horrified at Beleth’s words how could people enjoy torture? Considering Beleth said the stories are true Salvador thought on his sister, her words that the emperor’s children put up a facade “S-so all I am doing is helping with his music?" Beleth nods, his nose then twitches he leans in and sniffs Salvador to his surprise. Beleth then holds his nose slightly "when was the last time you bathed? " Salvador blinked “erm, I don’t know.. I can’t remember...” Beleth sighed “enough speaking follow me.” .

They continued to walk until Beleth stopped in front of a room and pressed the button to open the door, as they walked in the room was far more larger than his old one there was a double bed and shower along with a desk which also bore a mirror. Beleth moved to his hands and undid his bindings, Salvador flexed his hands "so what now?"

Beleth frowned "now take off your clothes and go bathe before I take you to Adelram's chambers." Salvador froze "while you are here?" Beleth nodded "Yes, I will prepare clothes that are sitting in the desk." Salvador rubbed his arm "erm.." Beleth sighed "I am blind I can't see anything hurry up!"

Salvadore jumped he took several paces to the shower he took off his clothes he felt uncomfortable Beleth can't stare since he can't see but it felt.. strange. As Salvador walked into the shower he turned it on as the warm water hit his face it stang the bruise around his eye he winced. He then grabbed the soap he started to cry for some reason. Something so small as a shower was breaking him up inside, it felt like he was washing away all the grime and hardship he felt while living on the world eater ship. Even with the water stinging his face it felt good, right even.

As the Salvador finished and turned off the water, he could see Beleth leaning at the side of the door waiting head cast down slightly and on the bed were fresh clothes. Black shorts along with a black t-shirt with undergarments. Salvador put them on it felt.. fresh clean even. For some reason Salvador smiled. Salvador approached Beleth who leaned away from the door he smiled "doesn't that feel better?" Salvador looked to his skin which was now pristine it smelled nice as well.

Salvador nodded slowly, Beleth crossed his arms "you were wincing in the shower is something wrong?" Salvador looked down slightly "no, everything is fine." Beleth frowned "stop lying, I can tell, your heart spiked when you said that. Plus your feet shifted." Salvador rubbed his neck "before the attack I was beat up, my eye was bruised." Salvadore watched Beleth nod he gave a gentle smile which threw Salvador off guard "which eye is it?" Salvadore raised his eyebrow "it's around my right eye." Beleth moved his bare hand to his eye he traced his finger around it and removed it.

After a moment the pain was gone to Salvadore's shock he looked at the mirror on the desk the bruising was gone also. Salvadore turned to Beleth as he turned to the door "your welcome." Beleth gestured with his hand "Adelram is most likely in his chambers by now, Come." The door opened and Beleth exited the room Salvador followed.

As they left the room Salvadore touched his eye again it did not hurt at all he looked to Beleth's back. Salvador knew in that instance that he must be a witch like Adelram. Salvador heard tales of witches the things they can do, the curses, spells and the power to twist your mind. Beleth spoke breaking Salvadore's thoughts "so how do you feel?" Salvadore raised his eyebrow at the question, he can't lie he would know when he is lying so he mumbled "I feel..better."

Salvador clenched his chest that was the truth he could muster yet he felt slightly conflicted he was still afraid that they would torture him. Plus both of them are witches, yet Beleth gave him clean clothes and along with the shower, in his mind perhaps just maybe it won't be as bad as the stories make them out to be. They eventually stopped at double doors, Beleth opened them slowly and they walked in.

As Salvador entered the room his heart sank all the stories are actually true, crying slaves chained to the walls, the silks covering the room and the skulls that weeped. Salvador wondered if he was going to be chained to the wall as well, he saw Adelram sitting at a chair drinking wine casually like nothing is going on. Beleth walked over, Salvador slowly followed. One thing that surprised him is that Beleth is not bowing "Adelram he is here." Adelram placed his wine glass on the table and rose from his chair "you are late what happened?"
Beleth shrugged "he stank so I made him take a shower, gave him some clothes." Adelram nodded he then smiled at Salvador he tried not to make eye contact trying to remember his sister's words. Adelram walked over and grabbed his shoulders "what luck to find one such as you! Your cello is being prepared so your name is Salvador yes?" Salvador nodded "y-yes, erm.."

Adelram nodded "when you are here in this chamber with me, call me Adelram." Salvador held up his hands slightly "b-but I just met you! It would be disrespectful!" Adelram leaned back shaking his head “what is disrespectful is what the world eaters did to you. Brutes don't understand the finer things in life I personally blame their primarch at times I wonder what they would be like without the nails." As Adelram said those words Salvador thought the same thing what they would be like without the nails? Would his old master treat him the same way? Would he be stern like his Sister?

Salvador shook his head it no longer matters thinking about him now he is stuck with Adelram. Adelram crossed his arms "a new cello is being prepared for you." Salvador blinked "a new cello? really?" Adelram nodded "yes, we have various craftsmen on the ship with the skills to make one. How long I searched for someone but it seems that these days the imperium prefers everyone to be in factories over learning or building a talent." Salvador held his hands tightly as Adelram spoke one of the main joys of his life might actually be coming back. Adelram shifted his gaze to Beleth "please take him back to the room where he cleaned up I am sure he would like to rest, that room will be Salvador's quarters from now on."

Beleth nodded "very well, Salvador come with me." Salvador perked up the shock of gaining a cello back left him awestruck "y-yes Beleth!" Salvador followed Beleth out of Adelram's chambers the sounds of the people chained in his room ringing in his ears. As he left Salvador wondered even further Adelram seemed kind yet what he saw in the chambers contrasted it.

Salvador looked to Beleth he acted so casual he wondered how that could occur he was about to open his mouth until Beleth spoke "you wish to ask a question? Ask." Salvador gulped he tapped his fingers together nervously "so..what is your relationship with Lord Adelram?" Beleth stopped, Salvador cursed under his breath he must of said something he shoundl't "I am sorry Beleth! I forgot my place!" Salvador bowed slightly, Beleth chuckled in response "It's fine Salvador, now your question?" Beleth began tapping his chin with his finger.

Salvador raised his head he was shocked that he was going to answer, Beleth lowered his hand he turned to Salvador "If I have to put it into words? An abusive relationship but with benefits." Salvador blinked he heard tales of what the emperor's children and their tastes.. "Is i-" Beleth interjected "no it's not that. nothing like that both Adelram and I have up and downs but it works out. We suffer but that's what it's like being with a family at times right? It's how you deal with suffering and grow from it." Salvador mouthed slowly "family..? Really..?"

Beleth nodded "that's how I see it other's may not but I don't really care. It's the one thing me and my old self agree upon." Salvador raised his eyebrow "old self?" Beleth gestured "enough questions for now, let's press on." They continued to walk the halls until they reached a familiar door. Salvador looked at it "is this really my room?" Beleth nodded "yes it is." Salvador rubbed his arm "it's safe to sleep here also?" Beleth stroked his chin "you were claimed by the leader by the warband no would dare touch you. Plus the upper levels are far safer compared to the lower levels of the ship." Beleth moved to open the door, they walked in.

Standing within the room Salvador could not believe it is now his, Beleth smiled "get some rest I expect Adelram would like to start practicing soon." Salvador nodded while smiling as he thought on the cello his mind drifted to his sister as Beleth turned away to leave he called out "wait!" Beleth stopped "what is it?"

Salvador bit his lip "c-could you find my sister? She is important to me..." Beleth fell silent, Salvador wondered if this is the extent of his.. kindness. Salvador wanted to hit himself he had to remember they are still the emperor's children legion. Salvador watched Beleth scratch the back of his head "fine, do you have a description? I will ask around." Salvador's smiled "thank you! She has brown hair, fair skin, piercing red eyes! Also that.. mark on her forehead..the mark of the blood god." Beleth nodded taking in the information "won't be hard finding someone like that. I will see what I can do, now get some rest." Salvador nodded while grinning, Beleth gave a small smirk before leaving the room.

Salvador looked to the bed he slowly climbed on, the softness as the sheets caressed his skin it has been an age since he slept in a good bed. The bed is even far better compared to the one on his home planet. The sheer sense of comfort that the bed is providing brought tears to his eyes they fluttered as he drifted to sleep.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/23 03:40:52


Post by: lliu


Well Adeleram got a new pet. Let’s see how this one turns out!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/27 15:06:06


Post by: shinros


Chapter 2

Beleth leaned back on Salvador’s door waiting for him to slip into slumber, he placed his finger on his temple focusing opening up his senses. He could detect Salvador is now resting on his bed his breathing has steadied. Beleth smiled “must be sleeping..” Beleth thought on Salvador’s request, he asked to find his sister thinking on her description she must be a cultist of the world eaters. Beleth scratched his head wondering why he took such a request going by his journal Salvador seems… similar to his old self. Beleth sighed as he stood upright he began walking back to to Adelram’s chambers, at first walking the halls of the ship was difficult but he learned where everything is in time. What helped is that each part of the ship bore a certain vibration or sound which aids him in finding places, Noxus abode bares a sort of clicking sound and the vibrations rumble heavily. While the temple is quick and light due to the constant clashing of blades. After a time Beleth took to wearing no shoes because he found wearing them obscured his vision somewhat.

What Beleth found most interesting is that Adelram’s chambers is the loudest out of many areas of the ship. The sheer sound of the wailing of souls and the thundering waves that are released from his chambers still surprises him. Beleth’s mind drifted to the recent raid upon the world eater ship many of the Astartes in the warband were grinning ear to ear when Adelram announced the purpose of it plus many took joy in killing followers of the blood god especially those of the world eater legion. Beleth did wonder why the world eaters implanted such a device within themselves when Adelram told him of the nails he could not think of any practical value to it.

Beleth shrugged “oh well, let the followers of the blood god mutilate their minds perhaps he prefers blunt instruments.” Beleth walked slowly eventually reaching the doors of Adelram’s chamber he pushed the doors open and walked in. The sound of slaves greeted him, their pain, agony and pleasure always puts a smile on his face.

Beleth could sense Adelram is sitting on his chair, drinking wine as always. Beleth walked forward as he approached he could detect a empty chair near the table. Beleth looked to it “you wish me to sit?” Adelram’s voice came to his ear gently “yes, you also worked hard as well.” Beleth frowned “I only killed a few cultists you wouldn't let me kill the world eater.” Beleth sat down on the chair, he moved his hand to his belt and pulled out the recording device he removed a tape from his belt and inserted it. He pressed the button to activate the recording and placed it on the table he spoke “tape 5.”

Beleth heard Adelram taking a gulp of wine “so you have taken a liking to using that device?” Beleth nodded “I have sometimes I listen to old recordings its.. enjoyable.” Beleth noticed that Adelram is mumbling slightly as the device started record then the chime came from the device. Each chime meant an hour has started, Beleth counted three in total going by old tapes. Beleth could hear Adelram flexing the gauntlet of his power armour slightly Beleth gave a sad smile it’s clear to him that whenever he uses the device causes him to recall the events of Athor. Beleth spoke trying to move the conversation back to the world eater “were you afraid I could not kill him?”

Adelram took a few moments to respond the flexing stopped he chuckled “you should not underestimate them he could of killed you.” Beleth crossed his arms in annoyance “you killed him pretty easily, I heard how you casually parried his strike, then you stabbed him through the throat.” Adelram tapped the table with his finger “then I incinerated him how did you enjoy the howls of a world eater dying?” Beleth grinned “I enjoyed it alot.”

Beleth picked up Adelram is now leaning back in his chair “So, Adelram as things are now are you satisfied?” Beleth waited for his response he seemed to be considering his answer carefully that is what Beleth thought. Adelram finally sighed “no, I am not satisfied with what I have, still developing the music is going rather well it seems the warp reacts well to it. Even so things are back on track. Slaves now fill the ship and morale is up. ” Beleth thought about the piano he rubbed his hands together. “So do you enjoy playing the piano then? I do wonder why you decided to start playing it.” Adelram took another sip of wine “I... well my brothers and even my father took to music so..” Beleth frowned he is dodging the issue to his annoyance and now Beleth is wondering if he decided to start playing the piano for the right reasons. Beleth decided he has to be plain with him he can't beat around the bush “so how do you feel about your father speaking to me or Noxus? Are you okay with that? Have you moved passed it?”

Beleth heard Adelram shifting, the vibration emitting from his feet increasing if Beleth listened carefully he can also hear the slow grinding of teeth “Beleth, I am fine it’s okay.” Beleth shook his head “you are lying I can tell.” Adelram tutted in clear annoyance he then sighed “did he mentioned anything about me? When you spent… time with him. Did he say anything?”

Beleth cast his head upwards slightly “yes.” Beleth smiled as Adelram sat up right the chair grinding with the movement of his power armour “really!?” Beleth nodded “indeed he did do you want to know?” Beleth waited again he wondered what expression Adelram is making at the moment since losing his sight Beleth had to think about facial expressions of those he is talking to.

Beleth kept waiting until it eventually turned to minutes Adelram spoke after a moment more “don’t tell me. I changed my mind I want to hear it from himself.” Beleth smiled at Adelram’s decision, Beleth tried not to think of what his father said about him. He pushed it back since Adelram is a psyker he might pick up his surface thoughts.

Beleth leaned back in the chair “I see, I want to ask something else.” Beleth could now tell Adelram is taking several sips of wine from his glass “what?” Beleth frowned “you are still weak.” As Beleth said those words he heard the glass slamming on the table Adelram spoke firmly “how can you say that!? Since Zatos I have grown in power! You sa-heard how I dispatched the world eater with ease!” Beleth moved the fingers of his gauntlet “I see, but how did you fare against the new weapons? The Primaris space marines on Athor?”

Beleth continued the onslaught his voice flat “on Athor I counted there were only about two squads, what would it be like facing a company worth of them? As you are now? You will lose.” Beleth knew that this might be the first time Adelram heard their names he guessed that Adelram is likely fuming at the moment. Beleth begun to feel a small drop in temperature Beleth traced his finger across the table he felt a small amount of rime building “you would of died. All of you would of been crushed. If you faced a psyker? I doubt you would leave that encounter alive.” Beleth heard Adelram breathing in then out heavily, at the corner of the room a slave began screaming more loudly gasping “n-n-no please!” Then a pop and the stench of blood mixed with the aroma of the chamber. Adelram spoke calmly “what of the other legions? How are they dealing with this threat?”

Beleth nodded “they are doing well actually other emperor’s children warbands are fighting them sd well.” Adelram scowled “so what am I doing wrong!? What makes me different from them!?” Beleth gestured to the slaves chained in the room “for one start following your strength more.” Adelram responded confused “strength? What strength is that?” Beleth smiled “look to your title the Lord of sin. Focus on bringing ruination and corruption to those you come across. The dark prince enjoys more than anything is when people abandoned virtue for their wants.”

Beleth understood that Adelram has embraced the dark prince he swells with his favour but he needs more. On this path more is always needed. More than anything the higher you rise the gods can easily take away from you. Since he is now in the limelight things will get harder from here, Beleth heard Adelram moving his arms to cross them “I have done that.” Beleth shook his head “to those you deem important in whatever work you are doing or to those who live on the upper levels.”

Adelram sighed in annoyance “so..I should be corrupting the slaves? The refuse? Why should I waste my time with them?” Beleth shook his head “the slaves fear you when they should be begging for your attention. They should be on their knees for you to use them, you have the tools to do it but you are not using them properly.” Beleth got up from his chair “Salvador spoke of the stories he heard about the emperor’s children legion, they are true all of them. Your father showed me such and confirming this with Salvador he shuddered in fear yet even so he is not entirely correct.”

Beleth detected Adelram is now rising “what do you mean he is not entirely correct?” Beleth walked over to the piano he pressed a key “the people on the ships of the third legion don’t fear what is done to them. They embrace it, it excites them they wait in the shadows when their masters will visit them again. Tell me look upon the slaves you chained in this room look at their faces. I feel them moving in fear not joy in being in your presence.”

Beleth felt Adelram’s footsteps each one heavy until he finally stood next to him he grabbed his shoulder “I.. see, let me think on this Beleth.” Beleth frowned it’s most likely he is going to discard his advice or think on it too much. Adelram should act not think. He should always be looking forward seeking the next thing, corrupting, devastating worlds and places if he wants to gain his wish. Beleth stroked his chin thinking Marthas would most likely tell him to focus on perfecting himself martially or to focus on warfare completely. The issue is that the dark prince requires more from a lord of a warband, Marthas is wise going by his journal entries and talking with him at length but he is limited he understands this after meeting Lord Fulgrim.

Beleth rubbed his neck another issue is that Adelram trusts him and enjoys hearing his words but in the end he is still human. He needs to hear it from an Astartes, from one of his brothers to confirm his words to remove all doubt. Beleth sighed “very well, I will let you think on it.” Adelram released his grip from his shoulder. Beleth walked back to the table and stopped the recording. Beleth turned in Adelram’s direction “I should be going I have stuff to do.” As Asriel placed the device in his belt he walked past Adelram who asked “what are you going to do?” Beleth shrugged “going to ask around for someone.” Beleth folded his arms “are you really going to think on what I said?” Beleth waited for the movement, that light vibration the shifting when he wants to avoid or lie about a subject and he felt it, Beleth tried not to frown as Adelram said “I will don’t worry Beleth.” Beleth chuckled “Alright… I see. I will be going.”

Beleth walked out of Adelram’s chambers leaving him to “think” on his words.

Jedrick sat on his chair he had the ship's craftsmen remake his old chair. Jedrick inspected it in detail he wanted it exactly how it was before. Jedrick then watched their cultist’s testing the new meat that was added to their lot, Abraham is putting the world eater cultists through their paces he claimed many of them after Adelram picked out a slave. Jedrick understood that the world eater cultists can fight the issue is they should be fighting properly. The world eaters taught them savagery to maul the enemy into submission Jedrick wanted to make soldiers, warriors out of them.

The new space they use for training is far larger compared to the old ship, Jedrick looked around there is a small armoury as Caius’ serfs got to work tinkering away at equipment. The rings and pits where cultists and Astartes fight and boast to determine who is the best or to fight over rivalries. The smell of sweat and alcohol mixed with the aroma of the ship. Jedrick grinned at the sniffing out the alcohol since Isira bought her contact Jimmy to the ship he has set up a bar in the ship he is a good mixer he puts things together that can even intoxicate Astartes. Deliveries are made regularly Jedrick personally requested it, Jedrick had a taste for wine but he much prefered ale or beer at the end of the day. Drinking the ale makes him think of his old home oddly enough even if his love for his home is gone. As Jedrick thought of of fenris Jedrick shook his head “too late for that, things are better now though..”

Jedrick shifted his gaze to the Astartes dueling and sparring laughing, pointing lauding victories over others. Jedrick grumbled “there is no joy for me…” Since Marthas has set up his “temple” Jedrick can see clearly their numbers are bleeding he can understand why even if he hated it. Marthas offers to refine them hone them to be the best they can be. Since the battle of Athor that number shot up considering what Marthas has also done to Sebastian.

Jedrick can clearly see the improvement in everyone who joins Marthas but he has found that all the joy that is had in fighting is drained away sucked out of them the longer they stay there. Jedrick rested his face on his fist “I need to find my glorious death..” Jedrick grumbled the gaping maw within his gut grew worse day by day even killing the leader of the world eater warband did not even sate him. What Jedrick found funny most of all is on Athor when standing over Adelram’s body and the flames from the terminator hit him. He screamed yet he was happy, there is joy in the possible moment that he would be judged to be worthy, to be carried to the palace.

Jedrick narrowed his eyes “when is it the time for me to go? Still…” Jedrick wondered how Adelram would handle things without him being there. In the past how they pulled each other out of situations but now? Jedrick mind drifted to Asriel..no Beleth in a way it was not Marthas that took his place but a human.

Jedrick laughed slightly “a human of all things.. I can’t deny it I even took a shine to him in the past.” Jedrick scratched his head all his thoughts are jumbled. Jedrick heard the doors of his abode opening he shifted his eye to see who entered it is Beleth. Jedrick could not help but frown slightly he wondered why he came here.

Jedrick guessed perhaps he is getting used to the ship still considering he can’t see but watching him as he walks its like he hasn’t lost his eyesight at all even if his head is cast down slightly. Jedrick raised his eyebrow as Beleth walked towards him, Jedrick sat up right “what is it?” Beleth gave a soft smile “I want to talk.”

Jedrick sighed “what about? If you want to talk you have Marthas he is good at that.” Beleth shook his head “but he won’t give me what I need plus I am looking for someone.” Jedrick folded his arms he grew curious “let’s start with the first thing, tell me what do you want to talk about?”

Beleth began tapping his fingers together “about Adelram.” Jedrick raised his eyebrow “as I said before Marthas does the talking. I am not interested.” Jedrick watched Beleth clench his hands “it’s important.” Jedrick snarled slightly it if it was any other human he would punish them for demanding his time but if he feels this is important…

Jedrick got up from his seat sighing heavily he gestured to a door at the end of the room “follow me.”

Tarkhan wielded his dao even when the power field is not activated the blade could easily cut steel, the combat servitor trudged towards him, many of the limbs were missing even so this did not slow it down. As the servitor struck with two of it’s blades one on each limb, Tarkhan effortlessly parried and removed both with two quick slashes. As the servitor staggered back Tarkhan stepped forward, he flicked his dao out like lightning the strike went for the servitor’s neck causing it’s head to topple from its body. The servitor’s head rolled on the floor it’s mouth agape spilling the words. “error...error... “

The body of the servitor fell slack, Tarkhan sheathed his blade and then removed his helmet “I don’t feel any better…” Tarkhan sighed “I should be with my brotherhood, not here with..” Tarkhan shook his head in annoyance the Great Khan along with the khan’s of the brotherhoods agreed it would be a good idea to place veterans with the new primaris brotherhoods. It was a joyous day to see a primarch return and the forces he bought with him helped the white scars since they bled over the long centuries of warfare. Tarkhan walked to a bench, he sat down and wiped his hand over his bald head his squad were eager to get to know their new brothers but there was a problem.

A problem he felt he could not voice, as he was thinking the doors of the training room slid open. Tarkhan looked towards the door it is Batu the stormseer of the brotherhood another who was moved to the primaris company. Batu walked over grinning as he passed the unmoving servitor his long black moustache pinched upwards at the motion. His dark eyes did not radiate the power of the storms gazing at the pools of his eyes calmed many a warrior down along with his words. Batu held his hands behind his back as he approached “practising still?” Tarkhan looked away “yes.”

Batu sat down next to him the charms and bones adorning his him armour rattling “I see, are you still upset?” Tarkhan shook his head “no I am not. I am fine.” Batu poured his gaze over the ruined servitor “they are our brothers Tarkhan.” Tarkhan clenched his hands “I know they are.” Tarkhan thought on the Khan who lead this new brotherhood the primaris space marine Ganzorig-Khan he is brave and puts himself out for his allies and brothers. Still he is not.. Batu spoke “of Chogoris”

Tarkhan stopped clenching his hands when Batu finally aired his thoughts “yes, many of the primaris that Roboute Guilliman has bought with him are not of our world I have dealt with that. Many of them were in awe when they came to our world and the took to learning everything about us.” Batu nodded “yet there is another issue isn’t there?”

Tarkhan rose his face stony “no there isn’t” Batu chuckled “ah I know you, perhaps you think that being placed here as obscured your path to becoming a Khan.” Tarkhan bit his lip slightly he is a veteran of several campaigns, his dao has taken the heads of xenos and traitors. Since being place here in the jian brotherhood fighting has been…. empty.

Batu rose from the bench and clasped his pauldron“you no longer laugh while killing.” Tarkhan looked down “yes that is the case, I am fine Batu I will do my duty. Ganzorig is my Khan.” Tarkhan frowned he tried to control his emotions he did not like radiating this feeling, still to a stormseer like Batu how he feels must be plain as day to him. Batu shook his head “you frown while you are fighting, you frown when you speak with your brothers and you are still frowning when you speak with me.” Tarkhan tried to smile Batu was the one that recruited him they got on well, and he was there still when he was moved to the eagle brotherhood after scout training.

Kor’sarro-Khan handpicked both him and Batu along with his squad to accompany the new primaris brotherhood. Many khan’s among the brotherhoods are hand picking squads and veterans to aid and advise the new primaris brotherhoods. Tarkhan looked down to himself the fluids from the servitor glistening on his white mark VIII armour he forced a smile “do not worry Batu, I will try.”

Batu removed his hand from his pauldron, he nodded “that is all I ask Tarkhan.” Batu walked towards the door to leave he turned his head slightly as he reached the door “don’t let it consume you. Get to know them you will see that you might have something in common.” Batu left the room without another word, Tarkhan looked at the servitor “something in common… very well.”

Jedrick walked with Beleth down the hall to his personal quarters he barely used it but he got the feeling he wanted to talk about something important considering it’s about Adelram. Jedrick looked back slightly his gaze fell down to the pin Beleth is wearing on his cloak the symbol of the emperor’s children. In passing conversation he heard many of the Astartes among his number grumbling or cursing about it he wondered how Marthas’ lot felt about it considering how they view themselves as the “elite” of the warband. Jedrick snickered slightly he watched them fight he could take many of them on with ease. Jedrick stopped at a double door he pressed the button to open the door. They slid open, he walked into his room pelts lined the wall, weapons are scattered on the desk and floor. Even chairs and tables are randomly scattered in the room. Jedrick looked to beleth who stepped over and walked around each object that is in his way.

Jedrick cleared away the weapons in the middle of the room and pulled up two chairs facing each other. Jedrick sat down sighing heavily, while Beleth sat down silently he pulled out a device and inserted a tape he spoke into it “Jedrick tape 1.” the device beeped.

Jedrick raised his eyebrow “I gave my best story ages ago.” Beleth shook his head “I am not looking for your story but recording what you think. To reflect on how I should approach..” Jedrick leaned back on his chair “Adelram? I guess you found something wrong with him?” Beleth nodded “yes.”

Jedrick scratched his head “I thought Marthas fixed him already? I don’t have much else to add.” Beleth grasped the device in his hand “you have known him the longest, as you walk, how you talk I feel you understand how to follow the dark prince more than anyone on the ship at the moment.” Jedrick laughed “what makes you think that? Marthas is the priest!”

Beleth cocked his head slightly “having my old journal read to me I realised something before Adelram embraced slaanesh you did not force it. It was like you knew it was going to happen at some point, you did not push the point either yet just being in your presence now I can feel your soul swelling up.”

Jedrick digested what Beleth is telling him, word has it that he met the lord of the third considering the stories he wondered what he did to Beleth “what do you mean swelling up?” Beleth rubbed his neck “even when I am blind I can still use witch sight if I focus it I can see coloured balls moving around when I look at you. Your soul is expanding growing compared to everyone else.”

Jedrick frowned “I see, so you putting the two together made you come to the conclusion I understand the dark prince the best?” Jedrick shrugged “honestly I have no hidden secret you must know what I seek I don’t do much else.” Beleth’s brow furrowed “yet you must have an opinion on the path you are walking or what you think of people around you. Can we start there?”

Jedrick sighed “fine what do you want to know first then?” Beleth tapped his chin “how do you truly feel about the temple? Their numbers are growing by the day.” Jedrick grimaced he shook his head at the fact Beleth is striking deep right away “how I feel about it? It’s a place where people want to hone themselves but…” Beleth blinked “but what?”

Jedrick bought his hands together “they are honing themselves but in whose image? You see Beleth everyone’s image or picture of perfection is different. Is Marthas perfect? Is his teachings perfect? No.” Jedrick could see Beleth’s face lighting up “I see.. That makes sense.”

Jedrick oddly felt good about saying it out loud he continued “you see, there are only two perfect things in this galaxy the lord Phoenician himself and the dark prince. To claim to understand it and that you know of the “true” way is in itself foolish.” Beleth grinned “I see, so you feel what Marthas is doing is wrong then?”

Jedrick shook his head in disagreement “to be clear Marthas’ path is not wrong in a sense but to believe it’s largely the only path or closest to the truest path is a mistake. Since I know many among them are going to hit a roadblock and they will wonder.. What should I do next? How can I perfect myself further? They will deviate and they will wander right back to the blocked road again.”

Beleth folded his arms he nodded “right, so what would you do different then? If you feel this way?” Jedrick shrugged “over the long years, plus the events of cadia, Zatos and now Athor it was an eye opener for me. At this point I don’t really care anymore.”

Beleth raised his eyebrow in confusion “you don’t care anymore? Can you explain?” Jedrick mumbled he sighed “it’s more the case I know what I want I don’t need anyone telling me how to do it. How I get there is on me, so the joy and pain of walking that path is mine.” Jedrick grinned “I know many left to visit or join Marthas because they cannot handle the abyss that the dark prince creates within our bodies.”

Beleth unfolded his arms “I see what you mean, when helping Marthas many of those who I fight are desperate to get in.” Jedrick nodded “indeed, in the end all it will be for them is just another experience, the abyss will come back in greater cascades. The need to feel, the need to do more. I know of one person who is most likely feeling said effects at this moment.”

Beleth was about to speak until Jedrick pulled up his hand to stop, he rose from his chair and bought over a small table it was dusty from not being in use. Jedrick barely ever visited his quarters it was more of a storage area for old weapons and pelts. Jedrick set the table in front of Beleth. Beleth placed his recording device on the table.

Jedrick looked to his desk and walked over he opened the drawer he searched through it eventually finding two bottles of ale. Jedrick set one down on the table and tore off the lid with his hand, he handed it to Beleth who sniffed it “is it safe to drink?” Jedrick tore off the lid of his own bottle “it’s normal ale I don’t drink it to get drunk. I drink this one for other reasons.” Beleth sniffed it one more time before taking a sip.

Jedrick held his bottle and sat down he looked at the bubbles within the bottle he thought on fenris, the brothers he betrayed and searched within himself. He searched for a small ounce of conflict he found none just the mawing unending abyss that exists within his gut. When he drinks for a moment it feels like it’s being filled the ale crashing moving downwards eventually hitting his gut. After a second the abyss comes back the hunger. Jedrick looked up to beleth “now where was I? You had a question.”

Beleth nodded “so who is this person?” Jedrick grinned “to me it’s obvious it’s Silas. Think on it he is perhaps almost as good as me now. Still in his mind, he feels he is the best out of everyone on the ship he leads the terminators he wears the suit with pride showing that he is above everyone else.”

Jedrick inclined his ale to Beleth his brow twitching slightly “looking at those milky white eyes of yours how your brow twitches slightly you know that is the case. Now think on it if he was the best why didn’t the phoenician use him as his instrument on Athor? You may have not seen it but whenever he walks past Noxus’ door his mood sours. Silas always grumbles “why did he speak to him! The cripple!” I personally feel what Noxus put on his door is amusing. Noxus deserves that considering the work both of you did on Athor.”

Beleth drank some of the ale wiping away the foam around his mouth nodding in agreement “I can see that, also he gets cross whenever he looks at my pin.” Jedrick nodded “indeed, you wearing that is a reminder of Athor. People were up in arms over not being able to get any slaves to the point I suspect they sought to kill you.”Beleth grinned “but they didn’t.” Jedrick smiled back “indeed, but I tell you this almost all of them were of the temple.” Beleth raised his eyebrow “really? Now that I think about it… their footsteps were.. measured.” Jedrick took a swig of ale “aye, think of it from their perspective how hard they train, fight and the Phoenician turns to someone they view as a cripple? And a human. Me? And those that remain with me? We largely don’t care.”

Jedrick leaned back “you see Beleth, I have my goal a glorious end I still haven’t met it but even so I wonder. When it comes what will happen to my brother and now that I speak of it? Think about it? I am afraid.”

Jedrick can see by Beleth’s facial expression that he is taking in all the information, compiling it, picking out each detail Beleth said “what are you afraid of? You don’t seem like the sort of person to feel fear since you are seeking death.” Jedrick looked at the bubbles of his ale again his mind drifting to the years of standing with Adelram their ups and their downs “I fear what Marthas and his ilk will do to him or how they will try to change him.”

Jedrick felt the room change, the temperature rising he stared at Beleth the darkness around him coiling yet his face is neutral “Jedrick, do you speak of betrayal?” Jedrick scratched his cheek “hmm perhaps, but before you go mental listen. It’s clear that Adelram value’s Marthas’ counsel but in the end if he wishes the Pheoncian’s attention in my opinion he should disregard him.”

Beleth cocked his head slightly “well, if he did not speak to him I guess he would not believe our story of what occured on Athor.” Jedrick sighed “if he needs someone to tell him to believe something then this warband is going to fail. He should know what he wants if something makes sense then he should follow it through. If he fails he should acknowledge it without someone needing to tell him.”

Jedrick laughed “let me tell you something Beleth, I am happy he now knows what he wants and striving towards it. My problem is that he is not enjoying it even failures is something new to enjoy. He does what he does because he seeks to attention of the Pheoncian but let me tell you something.”

Beleth blinked and raised his eyebrow “what?” Jedrick drained a great amount of ale from his bottle “I feel he is doing it wrong.” Jedrick watched Beleth’s face light up in surprise “what is he doing wrong?” Jedrick snickered he guessed that Beleth wanted him to say to push harder plunge yourself deep into the abyss “he stopped practising being an apothecary because he is likely thinking if he delves into the power of the warp it will get him closer to the Phoenician speaking to him. He thinks causing untold suffering will get him to move to look. I know him he is not doing this for enjoyment as he stuffed the meat of humans down his throat. While we ate with smiles on our faces he was not smiling like everyone else, people simply look at how much he ate. He is not finding joy in what he is doing to get the Pheoncian’s attention. He is desperate so very desperate in every action he does. I don’t know the mind of our goddess but what I think? I think she enjoys watching his desperation hence why she keeps piling his favour on him but eventually? She will get bored and he will fall so far..”

Jedrick can see Beleth’s mouth falling agape he then moved to stroking his chin thinking carefully. Jedrick smiled “I shall go further that music nonsense he is doing in his room? Do you think he is doing it because he enjoys it? Or perhaps it’s because his legion used to do it in the past so he is playing catch up? The paintings he did on the other planet we raided? Plus the statue on Zatos?” Jedrick grumbled “I enjoy what he does so does the warband but is his heart really in it? What do you think?”

Beleth slowly removed his hand from his chin “I see what you mean, your perspective has made many things more clearer Jedrick.” Jedrick nodded “so I gave you my thoughts what do you aim to do with it?” Beleth licked his lips “can you talk to Adelram? Tell him what you told me?”

Jedrick took another swig of ale “no.” Beleth grasped the arms of his chair tightly “why!? I am sure if it’s you..” Jedrick shook his head “oh yes he would listen to me but in my opinion he should figure it out himself. Each person is walking their own path to perfection it’s easy to show where it starts but the the path itself? It is so complex that it’s incredibly hard to guide anyone on it.”

Beleth leaned back, Jedrick can see a form of sadness playing across his features Jedrick smiled softly “look I will say this as long as you are around I feel that Adelram will be okay.” Jedrick looked at his drink thinking what will be his end. What will be the thing to send him away. Deep down he is relishing the moment that it happens he looked up to Beleth “I want you to visit me more often.”

Beleth raised his eyebrow “really?” Jedrick nodded “yes I just want to say a few things. I doubt it can be done in one tape.” Jedrick drained the contents of his drink completely he placed the bottle on the table “it’s a favour you don’t have to do it. Considering Adelram put that pin on you, I can’t exactly treat you like a slave can I?”

Beleth backed the rest of his drink and placed the bottle on the table “alright. I will, on the second thing.. I am looking for someone.” Jedrick folded his arms “who?” Beleth scratched his head “a woman, rather young, red eyes, brown hair, her most distinguishing feature is the rune of the blood god on her forehead. Since you took a great amount of the world eater cultist’s I assumed she would be here.”

Jedrick mumbled thinking on the information he has watched the cultists at length there is no one like that but..”I think I know where she is.” Beleth smiled “wonderful! Do you know where?” Jedrick nodded “when we were taking slaves, I recall a woman was dragged by the hair kicking and screaming by Marthas’ temple folk, she fits the description of the person you are looking for. Still I have one problem.” Beleth cocked his head slightly in confusion “what?” Jedrick shook his head in annoyance “how can you find someone when you can’t see?” Beleth smiled “I now know where she is, I know where to look, trust me I will have someone point her out.” Jedrick leaned back in his chair “right then good luck with that.”

Beleth got up to leave, he made his way to the door Jedrick watched him pull the door open just before he left he said “Beleth, don’t speak a word of what I said to Adelram.” Beleth turned his head back slightly “very well.” as he walked out of the door.

Jedrick, now left by himself he looked at the empty bottles suddenly he felt like he needed another drink.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/27 23:54:51


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Well Adeleram got a new pet. Let’s see how this one turns out!


Oh yeah I forgot to respond to this. On Salvador? Mwhahahahahahahaha *cough* mwhahahahaha!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/29 00:24:54


Post by: shinros


Chapter 3

Salvador got up from his bed he yawned stretching his arms, he rubbed his eyes and blinked for once he does not feel tired. He does not feel the ache on his body after sleeping on a bad bed or fear pumping in his heart. Salvador looked around his new room, all the basic necessities are actually there he dropped on the bed smiling slightly “perhaps, just maybe this won’t be so bad?” Salvador was about to close his eyes until he heard a knock on his door, Salvador jolted up a familiar fear crept back in his heart. Salvador slowly got off his bed and walked slowly to the door he wondered if it is Beleth. Salvador smiled “perhaps he found my sister!” Salvador pressed the button to open his door it slid open. He saw a woman with rather long hair and wearing a long dress.

What is most distinct to Salvador is that she held a violin she smiled “you are Salvador yes?” Salvador nodded slowly “yes I am, who are you?” The woman held her gentle smile “I am Camila, I am here to escort you to Lord Adelram’s chambers.” Salvador looked at Camila in surprise she looked… innocent but as Fatima said whatever a person looks like it’s the opposite underneath. Camila stepped into the room and looked around “are you liking your new room?” Salvador rubbed his arm nervously “yes, it’s nice.” Camila nodded “good, I heard the things the world eaters do to those who serve them.” Salvador could not help but tap his fingers together he is still nervous he wondered if Camila knows of the stories that surround the emperor’s children.

Camila turned to him still smiling, she then made a small frown “before we go. How about you present yourself better?” Salvador raised his eyebrow “present myself better? What do you mean?” Camila placed her instrument on the bed and walked over to the desk she gestured to Salvador to come over “please come here.” Salvador walked slowly to the desk he looked at the mirror his olive skin is no longer grimy, his short brown hair looked clean and is no longer filled with grease. His green eyes, when he looks at them he felt a small surge of hope for some reason. Camila opened the drawer and picked out a comb she began combing his hair.

Salvador stepped back to Camila’s confusion “what’s wrong Salvador?” Salvador shook his head it’s his instinct he wondered if they are trying to draw him in. Salvador held to his sister’s words “it’s nothing, I am sorry I am just not used to it.” Camila nodded “it’s fine I know how you feel.” Salvador squinted his eyes slightly “how I feel? What do you mean?”

Camila gave a gentle smile for some reason it calmed Salvador down it felt like he could trust her. Camila put the comb on the desk “you are scared, you wonder what they are going to do to you. I thought the same, when Adelram took me from my unit. I was scared but I could not stop following him. He was.. kind to me he saw what I wanted to do and let me do it.” Salvador clenched his hands he can understand that he appears kind but the image of his chambers won’t leave his mind “what of his chambers? The chained people?” Camila cocked her head slightly confused “what of them?” Salvador saw that clear confusion the callousness played across her features. Salvador shook his head “they are suffering, in pain if Adelram is kind what of them?”

Salvador felt he is skirting dangerous territory, Camila touched her lip she began thinking she then gave a small shrug “the imperium does the same, plus many in those chambers refuse the kindness of the masters.” Salvador blinked he recalled his home he did not recall people being chained on tortured to death “I-” Camila interrupted him “I know what you are going to saw but it’s true, to the imperium your life means nothing yes you had no choice of what happened to you. Still the imperium would kill you tear you apart just for being on the world eater ship. If an inquisitor found you? They will tear you to pieces your screams echoing in whatever torture chamber they will hold you in.”

Salvador began thinking when their parents died Fatima pushed him to street perform for money back then he was about 14 years old, now he is 18. He recalled that Fatima told him they have to try hard to avoid being put into a factory they had to earn enough money to keep their place. Salvador heard bad things about working in such a place, the conditions the taskmasters to keep you working. Salvador guessed that it would be similar to working for the Astartes of the world eaters.

Salvador scratched his head “I am sorry if I offended you.” Camila inclined her head “it’s nothing don’t worry about it.” Salvador walked back to the mirror he rubbed his head “erm.” Camila picked up the comb “It’s okay let’s continue where we left off.” Camila continued to comb his hair slowly his short hair became neat, Salvador began thinking of Beleth “Camila, do you know where Beleth is?”

Camila stopped “oh I passed by him, he said he had stuff to do and that I should pick you up.” Salvador wondered if that means he found his sister he smiled “so Camila what do you think of Beleth?” To Salvador he seemed kind just like Camila but also stern just like how his sister was before she turned to the cult of the blood god.

Camila placed the comb down in front of her she stared at the mirror “out of everyone on the ship he gives the most to us and to him. You will understand the longer you stay here.” Salvador.” Salvador looked at the mirror also he looked at himself clean, pristine, he remembered when Beleth made him bathe he answered his questions and did not treat him harshly like he thought he would. Salvador recalled that he views everyone here like family of a sort he does not completely understand but slowly Salvador feels he is starting to get it.

Salvador made a thin smile “I think I get it.” Camila nodded “I see, anyway we should get going we should not make Lord Adelram wait.” Camila picked up her violin and made her way to the door, Salvador followed after her.

Fatima stood with the other slaves that belonged to Ballard she watched her new “master” Ballard train, she watched all the degenerates train in this so called “temple.”

Fatima could not help but curl her lip in disgust, to Fatima each movement there is too much passion and each stroke told her that they fought for the wrong reasons, they trained for the wrong reasons. Fatima touched her bandage, Ballard forced her to wear it he found the rune of Kharnath, the blood father and lord khorne to be disgusting to look at. Fatima then looked to her arm thinking of how he puts her into place. She pulled up the cuff of her robe sleeve revealing fresh scars and small bloodied cuts. Fatima frowned since she was dragged away by Ballard he took to cutting her in his spare time one to teach her obedience and whenever he felt slighted he would cut her.

Fatima cast her head down and hissed under her breath “the only thing disgusting here is..” Fatima’s thoughts trailed off she suddenly thought of Salvador her little brother. Fatima raised her head and narrowed her eyes at the emperor’s children’s Astartes. Considering Salvador has been taken by the supposed leader he is most likely dead by now or worse. Fatima clenched her hands in anger, the fury in her heart building “if they did something…” Fatima heard a clang and the sound of someone cursing, she looked up to see Ballard has knocked away the weapon cleanly from his opponent. Ballard sheathed his blade and walked away from his opponent as he cursed. Ballard walked towards them the slaves bowed, Fatima stood upright crossing her arms, as she looked at Ballard her stomach wrenches the black colouring of his armour mixed with waves of pink and purple. His Helmet is also pink it also had painted vines crossing it that were also purple in colouration.

Ballard stood before her “slave, bow as I approach.” Fatima held her place, Ballard shook his head the servo’s of his power armour winding at the motion. To Fatima the sound was clean compared to hearing her old master move. Ballard roughly grabbed her arm, Fatima tried to struggle to push him away he did not even notice it, Ballard unsheathed his combat knife and with a quick motion made a slice across her arm.

Fatima grit her teeth the cut was a lot deeper this time she clenched her jaw down she did not want to give him the satisfaction of screaming. Ballard scoffed in annoyance he brought down the tip of his combat knife close to her skin and inserted it he twisted slowly and finally Fatima screamed. Ballard chuckled “dogs need to be disciplined when they misbehave. I suspect my cousins don’t discipline their dogs.” Ballard removed his blade and roughly shoved her to the ground.

Fatima held her arm, blood dribbling down and the soreness of the injuries caused her to clench her eyes shut. She heard the footsteps of her new “master” moving away until he bellowed a challenge to another Astartes and the clashing of weapons started anew. Fatima felt someone helping her up she opened her eyes slowly to see another robed slave looking at her in pity. Their face is covered in scars he looked about the same age as Salvador her younger brother.

The slave spoke “it will get worse the more you resist.” Fatima scowled “I am not weak like the rest of you!” Fatima pushed him back and staggered to her feet. Fatima frowned “the god I belong to demands strength from his followers.” The slave bought his finger to his lips “ssh! don’t mention him here if you want to keep your tongue!” Fatima held her injured arm she spoke quietly “why don’t you fight back!? If-”

The slave shook his head and lowered his voice “don’t you think everyone thinks that!? Look at all the slaves here! Heads hanged low! We have no strength! We can’t fight Astartes! It’s better to bare it and live with what we have..” Fatima moved in close “In your eyes I see someone that seeks strength and freedom. I see it everyone’s eyes but they had no one to guide it. To live like this? It Is not living they treat all of us like animals to be used as they wished.”

Fatima could see a small shimmer in the eyes of the young man he reached out his hand “Adam.” Fatima slowly grasped it “Fatima.” The pain from her arm slowly drifted away as she grasped the hand of Adam perhaps the blood god allowed this for a reason. Just maybe she was not killed because khorne has a plan for her Fatima nodded “Adam, I am sure there are many who feel the same way. My old masters taught us that there are many ways to take down Astartes, you just need the right tools to do so.” Adam bit his lip “how can you be so brave? You know if the masters catch wind..”

Fatima let go of Adam’s hand “I rather die than live like this! They most likely tore apart my little brother!” Adam cast his vision down slightly “my younger sister was like you, until the Masters laughed and cut her to pieces they bled her like a pig and used her blood for their drinks.” Fatima shook her head “does your heart not beat for vengeance!? To serve the monsters who degraded your sister!?” It frustrated Fatima that they can easily accept their situation if she could find some way to link up with the cult members they could figure something out. Fatima grasped Adam’s arm tightly “if a chance came to get vengeance would you take it?” Adam looked at her his brown eyes turned dark for with despair for a moment, Fatima frowned as she slowly let go of his arm his eyes shimmered again as he grabbed her hand “if I could.. If such a chance came.. I would. I am sure many others would take such a chance.” Fatima grinned she felt a strange heat on her forehead that sensation whenever she takes skulls or wins the approval of Khrone. “Adam, be patient.” She leaned in close and whispered “the blood god will provide.”

For a fraction of a second Fatima thought she saw Adam’s eyes flicker with a red glow, just for a for a second. Adam nodded slowly to her exclamation, Fatima returned a toothy grin as she thought to herself “the red tide will come..”

Salvador stood with Camila in front of Adelram’s chambers doors, Camila pushed them open. They both entered, Salvador felt queasy he tried hard not to stare at those chained to the walls. Adelram was there sitting on his chair but next to him there is a large brown case with wheels attached to it. Adelram rose from his chair and gave him a smile, it caused Salvador to wince slightly. He followed Camila as they stood before Adelram. Camila bowed, Salvador quickly followed suit. Salvador made sure to rise as Camila did, Camila then stepped to the right letting Adelram come forward.

Adelram grasped Salvador’s shoulders the musk filled his nostrils again it made it hard to think. Adelram spoke “I have something prepared for you.” Adelram moved aside and gestured to the case. “Go, open it. It’s my gift to you.”

Salvador slowly walked forward, he looked at the lock and flicked it open. Salvador pulled the lid of the case open revealing a finely made cello. The wood of the instrument shined slightly, the strings were.. perfect. Salvador looked at the bow that came with the cello, the metal holding it together shone a brilliant gold along with the wood that is in the same condition as the cello. A tear ran down Salvador’s cheek “it’s amazing.. it’s far better compared to my old one.” Adelram bought over a small chair “show me what you can do with it.” Salvador looked at Adelram he nodded he grasped the cello and bow he sat down. Adelram wheeled away the case to one side and walked back to him watching, waiting for him to play.

Salvador held the instrument remembering the correct sitting position. Salvador held the bow and placed it to the strings of the cello. Salvador tried to block out the sounds of the chained people in the room the sheer weight of the cello in his hands consumed his thoughts the need to play after such a long time he let that need consume him. Salvador began playing he played an old piece that he used to play on the side street back home. Salvador let the sound fill his ears as he played the moaning and crying of the people gathered in the room drained away. He remembered the faces of the people who watched him play, clapping handing him thrones and offering him praises.

Salvador closed his eyes simply letting his hands do the work, he remembered his sister her face beaming with happiness her signature smile playing across her face. Fatima was there whenever she had the time to watch him play. Salvador thought of his sister holding that image close to his chest after a moment the image vanished she changed instead of her old smile he saw Fatima scowling in pure fury, the rune of the blood god blazing on her forehead.

The bow veered off course slightly making a sharp sound, Salvador opened his eyes Camila is now standing with Adelram tears in his eyes “that was beautiful”, looking at Adelram his face is a fixture of sheer awe. Salvador bowed his head “I-I am sorry I made a mistake.” Adelram walked forward and looked down to Salvador “it’s fine, I assume it’s been some time since you last played?” Salvador raised his head slowly “yes, it’s been some time I was just thinking of something..” Adelram raised his eyebrow “thinking of what?” Salvador cast his gaze away slightly wondering if he should speak of his concerns, Adelram then held his chin his black eyes bore into him he felt a strange sensation running through his mind as Adelram said “what is it? Tell me.” Salvador for some reason felt compelled to speak “it’s my sister. I am worried about her.” Adelram removed his hand he stroked his chin thinking for a moment “I see.” As Adelram stroked his chin, Salvador heard the chamber doors opening. Adelram lowered his hand “Beleth what is it?”, Salvador heart jumped he wondered if he found her.

Beleth approached “I came bearing news for Salvador.” Adelram looked to Salvador and then Beleth “I assume it’s his sister?” Beleth nodded “indeed.” Salvador held the cello tightly Adelram stared at him “Beleth, retrieve Salvador’s sister.” Adelram then reached for the cello and bow, Salvador offered no resistance as he took it away.

Adelram placed both items back within the case he turned to face Salvador and Beleth “I can see your sister means much to you hence I will allow you to be with her.” Salvador’s’ eyes went wide he shot up from the chair “really!? Thank you! Thank you my lord!” Salvador bowed. As he rose he could see Beleth frowning as he folded his arms “she belongs to one of your brothers, how should I handle that?” Adelram smiled softly “it’s on my orders, if they refuse, you know what to do.” Beleth inclined his head “very well.” Beleth turned to Salvador “come, we are going to retrieve your sister.” Salvador nodded he looked back to Camila to see she is still crying. Salvador could not help but frown he never knew he was that good. Beleth gestured for him to follow “come, stop wasting time.”, Salvador nodded and trotted after Beleth.

Salvador followed Beleth he felt excited “so you found her really?” Beleth nodded “yes, an Astartes from the temple took her. I will have you point her out they should still be there at the moment.” Salvador smiled “thank you…” Salvador could see a small grin lining Beleth’s features “No problem, I assume you will become more focused when you can assure the safety of your sister.”

Salvador thought back to the piece he played before as he thought of his sister he made a mistake. Perhaps once she is safe he would have peace of mind, eventually they reached a set of double doors. Beleth pushed them open a surge of pink mist erupted from the door as Beleth opened them. Beleth walked inside, Salvador followed as they entered, Salvador saw a great hall with two statues and Astartes duelling. Their blades clashes again and again, To Salvador he had no interest in violence but it looked oddly mesmerising for some reason. Beleth nodded “now Salvador can you see your sister?” Salvador looked around he saw humans wearing black robes and near the west wall he saw her, his sister Fatima she is now wearing a black robe along with a headband.

Salvador could see that she in discussion with someone wearing similar clothing along with a hood. Salvador tapped Beleth’s shoulder “I know where she is, follow me to the western wall.” Beleth smiled “lead the way.” Salvador nodded he walked over for some reason it turned into a jog and then a run. Tears were welling up in his eyes he ran over to Fatima who finally looked at him in shock. Salvador ran at Fatima and embraced her tightly to her surprise “Salvador what are you doing!?” Salvador looked at Fatima a heavy frown lined her features, Salvador stepped back “sorry, I was just so happy to see you.” Salvador could see Fatima looking to her acquaintance who nodded “this might work to your advantage.” Salvador raised his eyebrow “advantage?” Fatima shook her head “don’t worry about it. Now what are you doing here?”

Salvador nodded “I-we came to take you away from here.” Fatima raised her eyebrow “take me where?” Salvador could see Fatima looking over his shoulder “who is that?” Salvador turned to see Beleth is now before them he frowned “you run quite fast, do you know that?” Salvador looked down to his legs then up again “sorry.” Beleth smiled “it’s fine, I assume this is your sister?” Fatima stepped back slightly, Salvador shook his head “it’s fine Fatima, this one is okay.” Fatima finally stepped forward folding her arms “I see.”

Beleth nodded “right it’s time to go.” As Beleth was about to turn an Astartes Approached all the robed people that surrounded them bowed apart from Fatima, the Astartes sighed “must I discipline you again?” Beleth looked up to the Astartes “Ballard right?” The Astartes sneered “you.” Beleth nodded “indeed it’s me, per Adelram’s orders I am taking Fatima off you.” Salvador looked to Beleth and the Astartes Ballard, a small dribble of sweat went down his brow “Be-” Beleth held up his hand cutting Salvador off “I shall repeat, Adelram wants Fatima.”

Ballard shook his head “she is my slave, she belongs to me. Adelram already picked his out, he could of taken more but he settled with that ugly thing” Ballard pointed at Salvador. Beleth casually shrugged “he is the lord of this warband he can easily overrule such decisions.” Fatima whispered to Salvador “is your new “friend” mad?” Salvador gulped but he oddly felt confident “no, he knows what he is doing.”

Salvador could see Ballard is moving his hand to his sheathed blade “she is mine, as I said. Mine to do with as I will.” As Ballard now grasped the handle of his blade. A horrific grin played across Beleth’s features to Salvador’s horror his eyes turned black like the void of space and three inky tears fell down each eye. Beleth spoke with venom in his voice “you seek to disobey our lord? You want to fight over this? One young woman?” Salvador could see darkness is pooling at his feet a strange cold crawled over his skin as the darkness surged out of Beleth. Even the fur that covered his legs could not keep out the unnatural cold. Beleth’s cloak was now also moving like a mad beast swiping at the floor making gashes. Ballard slowly moved his hand away from the grip of his blade he turned away scowling “take her.”

In a fraction of a second, the darkness vanished and Beleth returned to normal “thank you “Lord” Ballard.” Fatima blinked “he is a witch!?” Salvador nodded “yeah, he is.” Fatima curled her lips into disgust “you should know better…” Salvador was about to speak until Beleth turned and approached them “let’s get going. We will be going to your room Salvador” Beleth turned away to the door. Salvador looked to Fatima who is now narrowing her eyes at Beleth as he walked away, Salvador held Fatima’s hand as he began walking. She resisted walking for a second looking back at the hooded figure. Fatima smiled to Salvador’s confusion “what are you smiling about?” Fatima chuckled “It’s nothing Salvador, let’s go.” Salvador left the hall with Fatima his mind swam with questions wondering what his sister was discussing with the person.

As they walked the halls of the ship Salvador watched Beleth’s back, for some reason after this he felt he could trust him even considering what he just saw before. Fatima kept up her frown, Salvador turned his head to her “what’s the matter?” Fatima spoke in a whisper “I am wondering what they did to you.” Salvador blinked “they didn’t do anything, to my surprise actually.” Fatima shook her head “they did, you smell like them it’s faint but it’s still there.” Salvador frowned “well, I would smell better considering I bathed.” Fatima clutched the arm of his t-shirt “no! That’s not it!”

Beleth stopped, Beleth turned to face a door “we are back.” Salvador looked to the door in surprise he was so caught up in the discussion with Fatima he did not realise they were back. Salvador wondered if Beleth picked up on the conversation, considering he has not said a word he guessed not. Beleth faced him “get some rest I will give both of you a proper tour of the ship later.” Salvador nodded “thank you.” Beleth smiled “No problem, well I have things to do.” Beleth walked away. Salvador pressed the button to open his door he walked in with Fatima.

Fatima finally let go of his hand and looked around the room as the door slid close she folded her arms her face stuck in a fixture of disgust “all of this is a trick.” Salvador raised his eyebrow “a trick? Seriously? We have a nice room to st-” Fatima clenched her hands in anger “think Salvador!” Fatima pointed at the bed “it’s a nice bed right? Yet even so it’s a vehicle for the hated serpent to worm its way into your heart! Everything about the upper layer and even this room is there to twist you completely! Even the very smell of the ship!”

Salvador wanted to hold his tongue but he couldn't “Beleth is not a bad person Fatima! He agreed to help me find you even before he was ordered by ou- his master!” Fatima shook her head in annoyance “you were about to say our? Right? They got to you that quickly?” Salvador looked away, Fatima sighed “see that’s what you do avoid run and always. Do you think our deceased masters were hard on us for no reason? They encourage strength! The will to rely on oneself! While these… these degenerates foster decadence and weakness!” Salvador began thinking of the chained humans in Adelram’s chambers “I-” Fatima interrupted “listen Salvador, all the kindness they are showing you is a lie. They don’t care for me they only came to get me to placate you. Here is the truth.”

Fatima rolled up the sleeves of her robe her arms were covered in cuts to Salvador’s horror “this is the truth my brother. This is the truth of your “kind” master.” Salvador held his hands together “perhaps.. It’s just him!? The Astartes you were with before..” Fatima creased her brow “you know that person I was talking to before? The one in the robes? His sister resisted them they bled her like a pig and used her blood in their beverages!” Salvador’s mouth quivered “they-” Fatima shouted “they would! Why don’t you believe me!? Your sister, your flesh and blood over them!” Salvador gripped his head “Okay! Okay! I understand Fatima..”

Fatima sighed she walked forward “listen little brother, for now just keep your head straight I will deal with this.” Salvador lowered his hands from his head “deal with it? How?” To Salvador’s surprise his sister smiled a smile he has not seen in years “Salvador, the blood father will provide…”

Silas trudged through the hall’s the ship making his way to his quarters, since donning the terminator armour and after the events of Athor he felt no need to go to the temple. He felt he was not making any more progress he could defeat any that challenged him and complete any challenge Marthas set before him. As Silas walked he passed by a familiar door, he can’t help looking at it to his annoyance. The chambers that belong to the cripple Noxus. He claims father spoke to him, he claims that he and the human saved them. Silas clenched his hand “I refuse to believe that father would go to those two! They must be lying!” Silas shook his head “I am the best, I am perfect compared to everyone else…”

Silas wondered if he should enter and aim to kill Noxus he sighed “Adelram wouldn't allow it…” Silas thought on Adelram, it was because of his order the warband was almost destroyed. Silas hissed “he should of listened to me.” Silas finally continued to walk down the hall trying to push back the words he saw on Noxus’ door. Silas saw an Astartes standing in the hallway it seemed like he is waiting for someone as he approached he could see it’s Marius. Silas narrowed his eyes “Mairus, what are you doing here?” Silas heard a low rumble emitting from the speaker then a low hum “a new song is starting? What do you mean?”

Silas never understood Marius he comes and goes, now that they have multiple means to get to the planet they no longer even see him in strategy meetings. Adelram has not even bothered calling him anymore since Silas guessed on the old ship he only appeared due to the thunderhawks were the only means of reaching planetside at the time. Marius released a loud screech it pierced Silas’ ears breaking his train of thought “a song of death, blood and misery?”

Marius nodded, he spoke normally to Silas’ shook his voice sounded smooth, almost gentle “I can hear, feel new notes being played by the dark prince a wonderful new string of notes echoing, reverberating. So much pain, hardship shall come..” Silas cocked his head slightly “why are you telling me this?” Marius released a strange sounding chuckle “the music beats against your soul, who will become beautiful by the end of this song? You? Or..” Silas growled in annoyance “enough Marius if you are not going to speak plainly leave me alone.” Silas began to walk forward past Marius he spoke again “even if you may lead by the end?” Silas stopped he turned around “what? Are you speaking of betrayal?” Mairus shook his head “is it betrayal if ordained? Be patient Silas.” Silas walked towards Mairus “be careful of such talk Marius, you betrayed Adelram before.”

Marius shrugged “I am not going to do anything, I am merely delivering a message.” Marius then released a long rumble from his speaker. Silas shook his head in annoyance he wondered why Marius can't just speak normally all the time “the song is beginning soon?” Marius nods and simply walks away vanishing into the darkness of the hall. Silas sighed but a part of him liked the fact he may lead. Silas looked to his blade grinning “it’s ordained? My star might be rising…”

Silas chuckled as he continued to walk back to his quarters.

Tarkhan flicked his dao out like a flash removing the head of a servitor, then twisted to the right and slashed again removing the head from a servitor looking to attack him. He looked at both servitors grinding to a halt. As the standard error phrase spilled from their lips. Tarkhan wondered how he should approach Ganzorig-Khan, Tarkhan knows he takes his counsel seriously but Batu told him to get to know him as a brother.

Tarkhan cleaned the ichor from his blade and sheathed it, the problem is that he is not much a talker or sociable either. Tarkhan sighed “what should I do?” Tarkhan then heard the doors opening and to his surprise it was his Khan, Ganzorig-Khan, he stepped into the room around the neck of his Mark X power armour he wore a necklace that bore the fangs of a chogorisian animal he hunted when he first came to the planet and he used it’s fur to fashion a cape. His helmet bore no tribal markings since he is not of Chogoris.

Ganzorig removed his helmet, his face colouration is fair, his hair is brown and cut short along with that he had piercing blue eyes. One thing that Tarkhan did like is that he had an eyes of the hunter. Tarkhan bowed “Khan.” Ganzorig nodded “rise, we are not on the battlefield I just came here to talk.” Tarkhan rose he wondered what he wanted to speak about.

Ganzorig looked to the servitor’s “so I heard you spend majority of your time slicing away at servitors?” Tarkhan looked to the twitching servitors and inclined his head “yes, I cannot be content with my current skill level if I stop I feel that my skill will decline.” Ganzorig smiled “never be content. The words of Jaghati Khan our primarch.” Tarkhan nodded “yes, we are warriors outriders the quick blade that cuts the heads off xeno’s and traitors we can never allow the blade to dull. Our feet should always be moving forward, never a backwards step.”

Ganzorig then placed his helmet back on his head he drew his dao “I see, I can understand that how about we practice together?” For some reason Tarkhan could not help but smile oddly enough it’s good to be tested by greater opponents and the things he heard of the Primaris class Astartes the size is clearly true since he stood a head taller than Tarkhan, Tarkhan wanted to see if the other stories are true. Tarkhan drew his dao “I am not going to hold back.” Ganzorig laughed slightly “I don’t expect you to.” Tarkhan charged forward and clashed with Ganzorig their dao’s danced in the air, Tarkhan can clearly see that Ganzorig had far more dexterity and strength behind his blows. Tarkhan chuckled in a long time he is enjoying himself for once. Tarkhan kept up his defence he wanted to feel out Ganzorig’s fighting style he made precise strikes they were measured, powerful. In that single instance Tarkhan knew the stories to be true he wondered how Ganzorig would fight after more experience.

Tarkhan grinned he shifted his guard slightly as another of Ganzorig strikes came down Tarkhan diverted the weight of his attack away leaving Ganzorig open, Tarkhan bought his blade close to Ganzorig’s neck. Ganzorig sighed “it seems that it is your win.” Tarkhan nodded “yes Khan but if it was an enemy you would be dead.” Tarkhan removed his blade and sheathed it, Ganzorig did the same. “you have the power and dexterity but technique, that is what wins fights.” Ganzorig inclined his head “I see what you did, you diverted the weight of my attack and used that opportunity to bring your blade to my neck.”

Tarkhan nodded “aye, still it was exciting sparring with you.” Tarkhan began thinking of Batu’s words “My khan, a request.” Ganzorig sheathed his blade “a request?” Tarkhan removed his helmet he smiled “yes, perhaps we could do this more often? Batu has said if you endeavour, fate will favour you. That is why we are here, why the khans sent us to join you.”

Ganzorig grasped his helmet and removed it also he smiled back “I would like that, please call me Ganzorig while we train.” Tarkhan placed his helmet back on, as the helmet clicked into place he felt a strange bond developing he wondered if he found something in common with Ganzorig “how about we go again?” Tarkhan unsheathed his blade and got into battle stance. Ganzorig held his smile as he placed his helmet back on and drew his dao and readied himself “the same trick won’t work again Tarkhan.”

Tarkhan laughed “I don’t expect it to.. Ganzorig.” Tarkhan charged forward as Ganzorig readied his guard.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/30 02:26:46


Post by: lliu


Oh we’re getting some Khorne in the story. Cool to see the different gods’ impacts on the slaaneshi people.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/30 12:11:50


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Oh we’re getting some Khorne in the story. Cool to see the different gods’ impacts on the slaaneshi people.


Glad you are enjoying it! I had to read up on khorne via black crusade and other black library fiction and interestingly I found that world eaters are not frothing mad berserkers all the time. Reading the Lucius novel their ships are pretty much ran pure military since with the nails they can't do much.

Even Kharn is pretty calm and intelligent when not fighting.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2017/12/31 22:22:25


Post by: shinros


A new chapter as we approach the new year!

Chapter 4

Jedrick tape 2

[sounds of objects moving]

Beleth:So why don’t you just clean your room?

[Jedrick grunts]

Jedrick:I barely use it, so what’s the point? Plus I roughly know where everything is anyway. Now sit down I will get the ale.

Beleth:So what do you want to talk about today?

[popping sound]

Jedrick:Here is yours, now... hmm I want to talk about more on what I seek.

Beleth:That you wish to die?

Jedrick:Yes, you see Beleth we will all eventually die that’s why so many pursue ascension on this path. Still I have no interest in such a thing.

Beleth:What makes you think it won’t happen? If it does that means you won’t have to die.

Jedrick:The thing is Beleth, I want to die. I want to see her palace to see the face of divinity.

Beleth:You might just get eaten by neverborn Jedrick.

Jedrick:Then so be it, but I think the dark prince will look and see what I wanted what I did to get it. I can tell she approves of what I am doing It’s why the abyss in my gut keeps growing day by day.

Beleth:They abyss in your gut?

Jedrick:You don’t feel it since I guess you are committing to your excess every waking moment.

Jedrick:Beleth, I can barely feel a thing, food does nothing, fighting does nothing it’s.. agony.

Beleth:You seem to be fine, some would take such a feeling to be disapproval.

[Jedrick Laughs]

Jedrick:Perhaps, but in my mind it keeps growing even now because she expects more. It’s only when fighting the greatest of opponents I feel whole. I feel aware, awake even. I dunno I have a good feeling that it is coming.

Beleth:That your death is coming?

Jedrick:Aye, Do you dream Beleth?

Beleth:Erm, not really.

Jedrick:I do, do you want to hear it?

Beleth:I am interested, what do you dream about?

Jedrick:Hmm, I saw lightning striking down upon the ship. It came like a flash, the electricity traced itself down the ship eventually reaching the reactors.

Beleth:That’s an interesting detailed dream.

Jedrick:It does not stop there, the image fades and I see it. My goal. The palace.

Beleth:Right, so it must be important.

Jedrick:Yes I feel that is the case. Anyway I am done for now. I want to drink in peace.

Beleth:Okay, we will talk again later.

Beleth walked to Salvador’s room Beleth wanted to take him to meet a few people. Salvador seems to be getting used to the ship after the tour the only concern is his sister Fatima. It’s clear she is marked out by the blood god. Her smell, how she walks and even talks. Salvador is important to Adelram that is clear enough, Beleth just hopes that his sister is not filling his head with nonsense.

He tried to ignore their conversation in the hallway, it’s right that his sister would distrust him if their positions were reversed he would do the same. She is dedicated to another god, marked out even and such people tend to be dangerous. Beleth wondered if the time comes to deal with Fatima how would Salvador react? It would affect his playing and in turn affect his master.

Beleth stroked his chin “let’s hope I don’t have to kill her..” As Beleth approached Salvador’s door it opened and someone stepped out. The footsteps were heavy, thick “Fatima..” Fatima faced Beleth “You. What do you want?” Beleth tried to appear friendly “I am here to pick up Salvador.” Beleth heard Fatima tutting “why? He recently just visited him..” Beleth shook his head “I am taking him out to socialize, instead of being stuck in his room for hours on end.” Beleth gleaned that Fatima is considering her response since she started to mumble, her feet movements told him she is hiding something. “So Fatima, where are you going?” Beleth felt a faint vibration, Fatima responded sighing at the same time “I am going to meet some people, I want to see if my people are doing okay.” Beleth narrowed his eyes slightly she is telling the truth but it’s clear there is something more going on.

Beleth nodded “right, is Salvador in the room then?” Beleth sensed Fatima walking towards him, she passed by “yes, he is in the room going over music sheets.” Beleth smiled “thank you.” Fatima sighed slightly before walking down the hall. Beleth approached the door and knocked after a moment the door slid open. Salvador spoke with a small measure of happiness in his voice “Beleth? What are you doing here?” Beleth grinned “I am here to take you out, meet a few people.” Beleth caught the sound of Salvador’s feet what he found interesting is that vibration from them were quite light still Beleth could tell he is nervous. “Go out? Go where?”

Beleth smiled “there is a bar on the ship.” As Beleth said those words he felt a small tug at his heart for some reason. The emotion was not pleasant, Beleth frowned slightly he shook his head. Beleth breathed in and the out slightly “so do you want to come?”

Beleth noticed that Salvador is still nervous, Beleth could understand why the emperor’s children and those who follow them bear a interesting reputation. Beleth felt Salvador walking out of the door of his room into the hallway brushing past him slightly, Beleth turned to face him “well?”

Salvador took a deep breath “s-sure, why not?” Beleth smiled “right follow me.” Beleth walked down the hall, Salvador followed him Beleth hoped this outing might make him more comfortable on the ship. Beleth walked in silence he wanted to strike up a conversation “so Salvador, how old are you?” Beleth heard his trotting softening somewhat “I am 18 Beleth, what about you? You look slightly older than me.” Beleth rubbed his neck he was not exactly sure how to answer the question “well, to be honest I am old enough to be your great grandfather.” Beleth picked up that Salvador has began walking more quickly in surprise as he said “Really!? How!?” Beleth tried to count how old he actually is according to his journal he has been alive for more than a century “hmm, about 120 give or take or slightly older.”

Salvador was now walking next to him “hmm, no wonder you seem so strong..” Beleth raised his eyebrow “I seem strong to you?” Beleth could tell by Salvador’s footsteps that he seems excited, Salvador stammered out his response “y-yeah! I mean how you got my sister back and all that. Plus standing up to an Astartes! Fatima sa-” Salvador fell silent, Beleth realised this might be his chance to get something out of him about his sister.

Beleth disliked doing this but it’s for Salvador’s sake “what did your sister say?” Beleth waited, there was a long silence for a moment until Salvador spoke quietly “she says, only the blood god knows the meaning of strength…” Beleth narrowed his eyes it would be obvious she would preach to him. Even in this current situation, Beleth knew just by how worried Salvador was for his sister in the past that he has to be careful with what he says next. “I see, but I don’t look to the blood god.”

As Beleth said those words another long silence came, when Salvador spoke next to Beleth it seemed that he is considering his words “I know, but from what I hear and see.. I am not sure to think.” Beleth smiled “It’s fine don’t worry about it Salvador just focus on your cello.” Mentioning the cello was the right thing to do. Salvador’s footsteps somewhat returned to normal. In the next few footsteps, Beleth felt a rumble under his feet it surged towards him in rapid increments. Then after a moment came the music, the pounding music. Approaching the bar has now caused Salvador’s footsteps to veer off, the nervousness came back in a giant cascade. Beleth grasped Salvador’s shoulder “relax Salvador.” Salvador stammered “o-okay.”

Beleth approached the door with Salvador and pushed it open, the full power of the music entered his ears. Beleth heard people talking, drinking and even Astartes are involved. Beleth sharpened his perception the people he is going to meet is sitting in the usual place. Beleth could not help but smile slightly he guessed they always picked the same table for his sake even though it’s not necessary.

Beleth grabbed Salvador’s wrist to his surprise, Beleth turned his head to him “I don’t want you getting lost in the crowd.” Salvador was silent but his breathing steadied along with his footsteps. To Beleth it seemed like he trusted him, Beleth walked towards the table. As he approached he heard his voice, the voice belonged to Abraham who lead the cultists for Jedrick. “so you made it!” Beleth nodded “yes, I also brought someone along.”

Beleth let go of Salvador’s wrist he gestured to him “this is Salvador he now serves Adelram, just like me.” Salvador stammered “p-pleased to meet you!” Another voice came, it belonged to Luke who is now partnered with the ship’s captain Lily “nice to meet you Salvador! Sit down with us!”

Beleth smiled as Salvador moved to the table to sit down he sat next to Luke, Beleth followed suit and sat next to Abraham. The tables were set in the middle of a circle like chair, as they sat Abraham shouted “drinks please!” Abraham grabbed Beleth’s shoulder “so, when the serving girl comes how about you work your magic? You know what do you call it? Compulsion?”

Beleth frowned “I am not going to use my powers so you can secure yourself a mate.” Abraham laughed “fine, not everyone can be like you or Luke. Soon as he got on the ship the captain was all over him and you? Two of the most beautiful women on the ship are fawning over you.” Luke interjected while sighing heavily “it’s not easy being with the captain Abraham!” Beleth sighed as well “both are annoying and according to rumors people don’t come back after they see one of them.” Beleth thought on Sitri she now has a room on the ship, Sitri pressed him to visit her but he knew better. After asking around Beleth found out that she draws men and women to her room and they never come back out. The sad fact is most normal people can’t resist her advances.

Beleth turned his head in Luke’s direction what he said concerned him slightly “not enjoying it? I have met her several times and going by my journal she is a nice person.” Luke tapped the table with his fingers, Beleth knew that it was him because of the direction of the vibration and he tends to do such a gesture when considering a response “no it’s not that Beleth, I mean she is wonderful she is nice, smart even and so sure of herself.”

Beleth nodded in understanding “you are not sure if you are good fit with her?” Luke stopped tapping the table “exactly! What do I have that makes me so interesting!?” Abraham chuckled “stop thinking about it too much, just enjoy the fact you have someone nice. Now Salvador?” Salvador jumped slightly nudging the table “yes?” Beleth guessed that Abraham is going to ask something inappropriate “Now salvador, You know a lot of the women here l-” Beleth slammed the table with his hand “really!? Are you going to ask him that!?” Abraham shifted slightly away from Beleth “come on Beleth, not everyone is serious like you! Think about it! He’s got a young face he would be the perfect wingman...” Luke sighed “are you that desperate?” Abraham grumbled “I could die in the next battle, I at least want my legacy to carry on or something.”

Beleth relaxed in his seat he looked over to Salvador “ignore him.” Salvador chuckled to Beleth’s surprise “It’s fine Beleth, It’s okay.” Beleth smiled at Salvador’s response perhaps bringing him here was a good idea. A part of Beleth wished he could see Salvador’s face at the moment but he had a good guess he was smiling.

Beleth caught footsteps approaching breaking his thoughts, Beleth assumed the drinks have arrived.

As the drinks were placed on the table the waitress spoke “I don’t recognise you.” Salvador jostled at the table “me? E-er I am new here..” Beleth felt Abraham tugging his coat he guessed his face is in a fixture of surprise and annoyance. The serving girl continued “yeah, how about we talk after I am done with work?” Salvador’s voice came out like a squeak “S-Sorry I got things to do…” the waitress sighed “alright, enjoy your drinks boys.” The waitress walked away, as her footsteps became distant Beleth could hear Abraham grumbling loudly “did you two see that?” Beleth frowned “no, I mean I can’t see after the all.” Abraham shifted in his seat “sorry..” Beleth smiled “don’t worry about it sometimes Lord Adelram, tries to pursue a means to restore my vision. I told him not to bother.”

Beleth could hear everyone has started to drink the joy around them draining away until Salvador spoke “why not? I mean don’t you want to see again?” Beleth clenched one of his hands “they way I lost it.. Is not exactly normal.” Luke placed his bottle on the table “I assume something happened on Athor, you could see fine before that. Plus you know.. From what I hear the name change. ”

Beleth nodded slowly “yeah, it happened on Athor.” Beleth never gave his vision much thought he could function fine without it. One thing he had to admit after talking about it in this moment a part of him wanted to see Adelram. To see him rise in the eyes of the dark prince he knows that Adelram finds it hard staring at him his reaction when he first visited room after Athor told him as such. Beleth frowned knowing Adelram he would still be thinking about it. Beleth shaked his head he grabbed his bottle and drank deeply pushing the thought away.

Beleth almost slammed the bottle on the table “let’s talk about something more cheerful shall we?” Everyone at the table agreed as they drank and talked of better things.

Adelram sat in his chambers thinking on the piece Salvador played. Just hearing each note showed Adelram that he is a natural. Adelram grinned “the things I could do.” Adelram looked over to the piano bringing the slaves in his room to the height of pain and torment along with the music causes the warp to react. At times he sees flashes of neverborn dancing in the air.

Adelram leaned back in his chair he took a glance at the slaves, whenever his eyes would meet theirs they would shudder in fear. Adelram thought on his conversation with Beleth, the fact that the slaves should love him and bask in his presence. Adelram sighed “they are just slaves, they exist to be used and discarded. Why waste time on them?” Adelram stared at one of the slaves, they wore dirty rags they look malnourished and they reeked of fear.

Adelram tutted in disgust, and dismissed the current thought dealing with slaves, his mind drifted to Beleth mainly he found it hard to stare at him since Athor. He imagined since giving the pin things would be better. Yet looking at him he is always reminded of failure, how he treated him and how many times he threw himself in the abyss due to covering for his failures. Adelram ground his teeth “that has to change. No more failures..”

As Adelram was thinking he heard a knock on his door, it slowly opened and he saw it is Isira holding a piece of paper. She walked towards him and bowed “My lord.” Adelram inclined his head “Isira, what is it?” Isira walked forward “you need to read this.” Adelram raised his eyebrow “last time I read a message we lost the ship and was thrown into the warp by my captain.”

Isira bit back her lip slightly “true, but I think this may interest you.” Isira handed the paper to Adelram. Adelram traced his eyes down the page.


Dear Adelram

I have heard tales of your exploits, your actions on Cadia and then Zatos. Even after that the exquisite pain and suffering you heaped upon the followers of the false emperor brings joy to my heart. Now why I am sending this message? Because I have chosen you to be a part of something.. greater. Slaves, equipment and the purest pleasures can be yours If you accept this invitation. You will even have the chance to join a gathering of the strongest lords of the emperor’s children. You do not have to answer right away I am quite aware that our brothers can be… unsavoury at times. If you do accept the location is the space station in the neighbouring sector the name of the station is Valira. Coordinates have been added to this message.

From your

Lord commander Primus Eidolon The Soul Severed


Adelram looked at the message he narrowed his eyes, he folded it and placed it in one of the pouches on his utility belt. Isira stared at him awaiting an answer, Adelram frowned “we are ignoring it.” Isira crossed her arms “why? Even with attacking the world eater ship we did not gather much slaves. Your brothers will burn through them quickly!” Adelram rose from his chair “I don’t trust him.” Isira shook her head “I understand but this could work to your benefit.” Adelram creased his brow “need I remind you again the last time we accepted such an invitation?” Isira folded her arms “yes, but this is from Eidolon rumors are that his warband is the largest and the most organised out of the emperor’s children.” Adelram scowled “just look at the message! He put your at the end. He acts like he is still my lord commander!”

Adelram narrowed his eyes at Isira “we are not going that’s the end of it.” Isira sighed she then bowed “very well my lord.” Isira turned to leave. As Isira left his chamber Adelram thought about the message again. The main problem is the fact in the past Eidolon wanted to purge him, Adelram guessed it’s due to his captain that did not thankfully occur.

Adelram then sat back into his chair scowling, the need for wine crawled into his system.

Tarkhan went over his form in the training room, he has found that he has started to smile again since he started to practice with Ganzorig he felt the joy as his blade moved through the air and watching Ganzorig improve was an odd delight to him. “I have to keep my skills sharp..” Said Tarkhan.

Tarkhan’s dao danced through the air, the blade moved through the air like a blur. Satisfied he sheathed his dao. Tarkhan nodded “now it’s time for the servitors” As he was about to turn to active them the door opened. Tarkhan faced the door to see that it is Batu. As always he is smiling ear to ear. He walked over each, Tarkhan removed his helmet “is something wrong Batu?” Batu clasped his pauldron while still grinning “I am just happy that you finally found common ground.” Tarkhan gave a small smile back “yes I did, fighting with him each of his blade strikes are controlled and strong.” Batu nodded “that is good, now if you would sit with me.” Tarkhan furrowed his brow “something is wrong isn’t there? I know you Batu.”

Batu’s smile left his features he sighed “yes, please sit I will explain.” Tarkhan followed Batu to the bench and sat down with him “so what is the problem Batu?” Batu face turned stern “we are being deployed to Califa. The planet is being attacked by traitors.” Tarkhan clenched his helmet in both hands “good, it would be nice to remove the heads from foul traitors.”

Batu narrowed his eyes at the servitor “you heard the saying that all souls bear imperfections Tarkhan?” Tarkhan inclined his head “yes I have, everyone tries to purge them in their own way.” Batu shook his head “but as you know the only one with a perfect soul according to the scriptures is the Khagan.” Tarkhan looked at the red eye lenses of his helmet and then back to Batu “what’s wrong with trying to be like him?”

Batu leaned in towards Tarkhan his face firm with conviction, Tarkhan has never seen Batu so serious before “Tarkhan, I have known you for a long time and at this moment I speak to you as a stormseer instead of a friend.” Tarkhan’s mouth oddly felt dry “yes, stormseer I am ready to listen. Please share with me your wisdom.” Batu breathed in and then out before speaking “stick to the side of our khan no matter what, if you do not your blade will break in the jaws of the wolf.”

Tarkhan inclined his head “yes stormseer.” Batu leaned back he smiled “thank you. I do not wish to lose a friend.” Tarkhan raised his eyebrow “lose? What do you mean? If it means I will die that is part of being a white scar. Our khan wields us as a blade until we break.” Batu frowned “sip from the cup do not drink wholly from it.” Tarkhan placed his helmet on the bench “I know many of the words of wisdom Batu, from you and the scriptures. I will not go too far. Do not worry.” Batu shook his head slowly “you read and absorb it but you don’t understand it. Hence why you are not Khan yet.”

Tarkhan clenched his hands “in what way am I not following it?” Batu frowned “you keep to yourself here. I am happy you have made progress with our Khan but what happens when he finally beats you? You should train, talk and keep each other’s company as brothers not as a foe to defeat.” Tarkhan cast his head downwards “I will think on your words stormseer.”

Batu bobbed his head “that is all I ask.” Batu got up from his seat he left the training room in silence. Tarkhan looked to the ground “am I going too far how? Also stick to his side?” Tarkhan shook his head in confusion as he reflected on the conversation with Batu.

Fatima approached the agreed meeting spot, Adam said he would gather possible sympathisers along with the items she requested and she has been in secret contact with some of her fellow followers of the blood god. Fatima grinned “lord khorne will look upon us..” Fatima took the stairs down a level the very state and smell of the ship changed to her surprise it actually smelt somewhat similar to the masters old ship. Just sniffing she could tell the touch of the dengerates was not truly felt so perhaps the slaves that live here could be rallied. The followers of the serpent only come down to replace the slaves they kill accidentally or purposely. As she walked the halls of the lower levels some people stared at her most likely sizing her up.

Fatima knew such tirade, she made appropriate facial expressions to ward off anyone who gets the possible idea to confront her. She continued walking for several minutes until she came to a door. She knocked 8 times a small hatch opened bloodshot eyes stared at her looking at such eyes Fatima knew that the person held the blood god close to their heart. The voice from door was gruff and hard “password?” Fatima nodded she whispered “the blood father guides the vengeful.” The hatch closed and she heard the flicking of locks. Fatima smiled she spread the password and knock to certain people and instructed Adam to do the same.

The door opened slightly and she stepped in, what greeted Fatima were several black robed people and armed cultist forces even some that wore the colours of the emperor’s children but those who bore scars and runes of their cult were in the majority. She could see Adam sitting the corner she walked over “so how did it go?” Adam looked up to Fatima “well, there are many representatives here in this room at the moment.” Adam pointed at one of the black robed people they were in discussion with a group of people “that is Nelisa, she represents the tech serfs who are unsatisfied with the current masters. With time she could smuggle gear.” Adam moved his hand to another “That is Leon, he represents the slaves who have had loved ones torn apart by the Astartes. There are many others representing groups here the master’s above largely look down on us and abuse us. Many are tired of it.”

Fatima smirked “this is good, very good. Trust me Adam vengeance will come.” Adam smiled “I hope so, perhaps my sister can finally rest.” Fatima smiled back “yes, many people would finally be able to rest after we punish the followers of the serpent.”“

Fatima scanned the room searching for two certain individuals after a second she saw Farah and Dayton she walked over to them and made the salute of the blood cult. The fist over one’s heart since the cult teaches that Khrone favours those who use their lives well “kharnath be with you brother and sister. How have you found living with weak and decadent fools?” Farah frowned “you are right on the decadent and weak. Me and Dayton along with many of the cult force are stuck with the human soldiers that worship the serpent. They talk of such useless things and they have no grit either.”

Dayton nodded “indeed, I imagine if both forces fought we would tear them to shreds. They look down upon us they call us mad dogs.” Fatima scowled in anger “they are the ones that act like dogs.” Dayton bobbed his head in agreement “agreed, now that we are gathered mind telling us why we are here?” Fatima smiled she walked to the middle of the room she looked at the people gathered “I am sure many of you heard whispers and they are true. You are wondering how we will achieve vengeance against the “masters” I know you fear them. You are terrified of them but they can be killed.” Fatima turned to Adam “do you have the items I requested?” Adam rose he opened his robe and handed her a portable welding gun used for ship repairs it is about the size of a autogun. Adam then gave Fatima several parts, which includes a larger muzzle and a power pack. Adam inclined his head and walked back to his spot.

Fatima placed the welding gun and parts on the ground she knelt down and went to work mixing the parts with the welding gun it took her several minutes, she also changed some of the wiring and inner workings of the tool. Nelis came forward staring at it “that’s.. quite dangerous.” Fatima look up to Nelisa she hard short black hair, her skin is also dark while staring Fatima gave a devilish grin “I know that’s the point. My deceased master Tabard showed me how to do it.” Fatima picked up the welding gun and held it in her hands “this can release a burst that would now punch through power armour.”

Fatima could see many of the people in the room are in discussion she smiled and handed it to Nelisa “what do you think?” Nelisa looked at the weapon “I can make some improvements, make it more safer and more lethal.” Fatima grasped her shoulder “can you please work on that? Considering it’s welding guns no one should miss them.” Nelisa nodded and went back to her spot. Leon spoke up “right you have weapons, but what makes you lot different from the masters?” Dayton scowled at Leon “are you comparing us to them!? I shou-” Fatima held up her hand she removed her head band showing the mark of khorne on her forehead she pointed at it “what do you think of the mark of khorne Leon?” Staring at Leon his fair skin looked ruddy and weary. His brown hair is also lined with grease. Leon mumbled “I heard you lot are all mad. Mad with anger and rage. You seek nothing but war. What do you expect us to do? We are slaves! And they are space marines! We would be slaughtered!”

Fatima walked forward “see Leon I think differently to you. When Astartes sought to harm those I care about I charged them without fear in my heart. What this mark means to me is strength, strength in oneself. Ever since joining the blood cult my old master has not hit me once. He taught me things, to help me survive to grow strong. This galaxy is dark and unforgiving those who do not fight are swept away.” Leon looked down to what Fatima saw to be shame, Fatima could see everyone in the room is now listening to her. Fatima gestured to everyone in the room “think about it! If we do nothing what kind of lives will we live? Being beaten? Abused? I don’t want to live like that! I don’t want to die like that either! Since stepping on this ship I realised we have to fight or be forgotten! Kharnath remembers those who fight! He despises those who accept their place! I will never accept this situation! Never!”

Fatima felt the rune on her head burning “if we hesitate now, if we take a backwards step at this point then the degenerates win! These weapons will work! Look at them! Many of the Astartes on this ship forgo ranged weaponry!” Fatima pointed at the welding gun “imagine all the sla- no free people wielding such weapons! A tide of free people fighting and bleeding together! This is why Khorne the blood father demands war. War reveals what is within us!”

Fatima clenched her hands “yes we will bleed but all pain is temporary, but if we attain victory that will be forever with us!” Everyone in the room were nodding at Fatima’s words she smiled the fires within their hearts is being stoked. Fatima looked to Leon she can see he wants to fight for freedom, but it will take a final push she bore her eyes into him “Our fear should become fury, if we don’t rage against those that seek to harm us we will never be free and our families and friends will be twisted, changed or even tortured and killed...” Fatima walked back to the middle of the room, Fatima made the salute of the blood cult “brothers and sisters, we can either die with fear in our hearts or win with blood on our hands. Yes some of us may die but all we have left now thanks to those fools above is our lives. Even those who have nothing can give their lives that’s all we have and khorne favours those who use it well!”

Fatima looked around the room everyone was looking at her in silence, Adam walked forward and copied her salute Adam spoke his voice firm and full of confidence “my sister had the courage to stand up to them and lay down her life. It would shame her memory if I hanged back like coward. I am ready to give my life to this cause.”

Fatima watched all the blood cultist’s walking forward making the salute. Nelisa and the people she bought with her came forward also and made the salute. Fatima looked to Leon he clenched his eyes shut and walked forward tears started to dribble down his eyes he made the salute as well “they killed my wife, children and friends. They cast them aside like trash.” Leon breathed in and out “I want strength, to free myself and gain vengeance against those who killed the people I care for.”

Fatima smiled “if we all unite, Khorne will look upon us favourably, may he guide us to victory.” Everyone repeated her words “may he guide us to victory!” Fatima closed her eyes as the chant filled her ears as the rune on her head burned hot at the back of her mind she heard a guttural roar of approval.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/05 03:17:08


Post by: shinros


Chapter 5

Jedrick Tape 3

Beleth:Right tape is starting, seats and drinks are ready…

Jedrick:Good, now what should we talk about today?

Beleth:How about we talk about your dream more?

Jedrick:Nope, I want to talk about something else

[Beleth sighs]

Jedrick:There is no point, still I have a good feeling on what or who is going to kill me. The issue is what happens after.

Beleth:After? What do you mean?

Jedrick:The question is who will fill the void I leave behind? It can’t be the Astartes of this ship.

Beleth:Why not? I am quite sure Silas could be the new exalted champion.

Jedrick:No not him, I want the person who replaces me to have Adelram’s back and Silas is far too self absorbed and a show off to replace me. Plus I hope that it is the one who kills me that takes my old place.

Beleth:Why would you want the person who kills you to take your place? I doubt Adelram would accept that

[Jedrick Laughs]

Jedrick:That’s where you come in.

Beleth:Me!? He won’t listen to me! That’s why I came to you in the first place! You know what why do you have to die!? You are important to him! Don’t you see that!?

[Jedrick grumbles]

Jedrick:You think that, you are simply not pressing him hard enough. Adelram will get mad but if you are speaking sense he will listen. Now why do I have to die? Because I want to you should know this. Yes I know I am important to him but what I want is far more important than our bond. Call it selfish? I don’t really care at some point he has to learn to live without me there.

Beleth:I see….

Jedrick:You see Beleth, when Adelram announced his desire on Zatos everything made sense to me. Adelram craves for people to trust him and he wants people to trust him in turn. He desires bonds he clings and holds unto people. Why does he surrounded himself and dotes on humans? Why does he go through such much trouble to corrupt those that interest him? Look at Sebastian if it was me I would plant an axe in his skull after Zatos. Beleth that need is ingrained into him even if he does not realise it.

Beleth:He craves bonds? I had.. No idea…

Jedrick:Yup, it’s not bad in itself he just needs to get the right people. I believe Marthas is not one of those right people. You are one of those right people there are three more according to my dream.

Beleth:You really don’t like Marthas all that much do you? Also, three more people? How do you know? So there is more to your dream? what did you see?

Jedrick:I don’t hate Marthas I just think his ideals is not in Adelram’s best interest that’s it. Now on the three people? Can’t say more I am not allowed, don’t want to displease the dark prince.

Beleth:What!? Seriously!? This might be important!

Jedrick:Of course it is, but it will be more interesting if I don’t say anything hence why I did not want to talk about the dream again. Beleth all I want is for you to save the one who will kill me that’s it. I will not say more on the matter.

[Beleth sighs]

Beleth:Alright, I will try.

Jedrick:That is all I ask, now I want to drink in peace leave me be.

Beleth:Right, thank you for your time.


Izel sat on his chair within his chambers, eldritch lights flickered and danced around the room they glew with a soft blue light. His room was lined with bookshelves filled with esoteric and dangerous knowledge. Parchments, scrolls and fetishes covered every inch of the walls.

His ship the seer of stars was cloaked the power worked by his serfs so he could work in peace without the imperium of rival warbands harrying or disturbing him. Izel pulled and moved the shining orbs that surrounded him since Athor they grew dark. In that darkness within each orb he sees or even feels a harrowing and disturbing future. The darkness that consumes the orbs is why he is in his chambers at work trying to divine it’s meaning. Staring into the orbs for a moment he thought he saw a figure it felt familiar for some reason “there is no way..” said Izel. He then sighed he wondered if it’s a test or it might be someone or something subverting the strands of fate. As he sat he heard a laughter, a chilling laughter that echoed in ones ear at most he could tell it’s female. As the laugh went on at the corner of his eye he saw someone but if he turned his head there is no one there.

Izel rose “who is there! Show yourself!” The laughter continued, Izel grabbed his helmet from the side desk and placed it upon his head. He scanned the room using the auto-senses trying to pick up anything his auto-senses detected nothing, Izel tutted “fine I shall use the other eye.” Izel opened his witch eye he saw blue fire tracing many of his writings and writhing pink and blue tentacles covered some of his books. Izel looked around and in the corner he saw a writhing cloud it is multicoloured. As he stared at it the laughter bounced in his mind. Izel raised one of his hands blue flame surged around it “I see you, show yourself now!”

The cloud moved towards Izel, it hovered in front of him it twisted and changed until a figure stood in front of him. Izel looked them up and down their gear is multicolored with blue,red and even yellow squares, they wore a hood along with a featureless mask. Just looking at the gear he knew right away who it was “What did I do to have a shadowseer visit me? I assume since a harlequin is visiting me I am within one of your stories?” The shadowseer laughed again, it oddly made Izel’s stomach turn the longer he kept hearing it. The shadowseer danced around Izel “a black and dark future you see fallen one. A future you wish to avert.” Izel narrowed his eyes in normal circumstances he would incinerate any xeno that would infiltrate his abode but the one here is important. He had a good feeling about it.

Izel folded his arms “yes, s-” The shadowseer stopped in front of Izel “you can get back to acquiring power to return your comrades. So you can finally bury your regret fallen one.” Izel clenched his hand the need to attack his “visitor” was increasing “yes, but I assume you are not here for that.”

The shadowseer inclined her head “indeed, a stage is being made to stop the true lord of sin from being born.” Izel raised his eyebrow he guessed he was involved considering the dark future still consumes the orbs. What confounded him is the fact that he manipulated the Lord of sin effortlessly on Athor until his human got in the way. He wondered what was so important about him and he seemed corrupted already “what do you mean to stop true lord of sin from being born?”

The shadowseer twirled her stave “The battle in the Barbos system was the start of the birthing process hence we sought to kill the lord of sin and his Mon-keigh servant. That stage, that play fell to pieces but the lord of sin danced to Athor. He would of met his end there his birth should've been aborted on Athor until his prized Mon-Keigh intervened.” Izel shook his head “what does that have to do with me?” The shadowseer laughed as she continued to twirl her stave “don’t disrupt this new stage mon-keigh. Leave things be and let fate run its course. Then the lord of sin won’t be born.”

Izel chuckled “what is so dangerous about him? He is not all that powerful! I could destroy him with ease! and he is easily manipulated. He is a fool!” The shadowseer stopped twirling her stave she tapped the head of it on her hand “if the lord of sin is born more titles should be added he will become the lord of corruption, the destroyer of virtue, scion of darkness and vice, The harvester of Aeldari….”

Izel scoffed “why should I listen to you!? I know your kind you are getting something out of this or perhaps you seek to manipulate me to serve your ends!” The shadowseer tilted her head to one side “do not disrupt the stage that has been set. See. Look.” The shadowseer moved her stave to the orbs that surrounded him they bent buckled. Izel stared at them it was like the darkness within them started to devour his mind. The vision turned far more bleaker than the one he saw. Izel could see the figure again. Izel looked closer at the orb he then saw himself being dragged down by the darkness consumed completely and utterly. The shadowseer moved her stave away and the orbs returned to normal. The same old empty darkness filled them.

Izel bit his lip slightly “if this involves me…” The shadowseer laughed “it will involve you if you disrupt the stage. Resist the urge to disrupt fate fallen one.” Izel narrowed his eyes “if you don’t want me disrupting your stage why not attempt to kill me?” The shadowseer began to dissipate “it’s simple there is a clear light. A perfect stage killing you could disrupt it. Moving against you can damage it...” Izel watched the shadowseer vanish, Izel sat back in his chair he mused on what he has just been told. One thing he knows for sure xeno’s especially the harlequins cannot be trusted. Izel guessed they sought to manoeuvre him if what the shadowseer showed him could be trusted then he must act in his own way. The adherents and followers of tzeentch are the true masters of fate, not the aeldari who play with small strings hoping to keep their dead race alive.

Izel opened his hand and concentrated from his palm a mirror like substance was generated he pushed it to the centre of his chamber. It slowly expanded until it turned into circle like mirror that blazed with a rainbow of colour. Izel leaned back in his chair he searched systems, sectors and planets for the thing that could end the Lord of sin. He searched for several minutes until minutes turned to hours. Izel stopped at one image a ship moving through the warp. Izel chuckled “I wonder what I could do with that…”

Salvador trotted away from Adelram’s chambers it’s been a few weeks he is getting used to the ship and he is spending far more time with Beleth. For once since he was taken from his home he is happy. Salvador frowned as he spoke out loud “perhaps Fatima is wrong..” Salvador walked to his room thinking on Fatima’s words that what Lord Adelram is doing is a lie. Everyday when he gets back to his room it’s another lecture from her, she presses him more and more as the days goes by. Part of Salvador could not believe that Adelram is far too kind, he has not hit him once he treats him well. He has good food to eat and a nice bed and now.. he finally has friends. He talked more with Luke he even met Lily his partner who also seems nice as well. Most of all Beleth watches out for his well-being. Thinking of Beleth he found him odd in a sense he is like Fatima but far more calm. Plus he speaks the truth in a sense he does not beat around the bush. Now when he speaks to Fatima he was not sure whether it’s his sister anymore these days she seems far more angry, restless even.

As Salvador reached his room door he pressed the button to open it and walked in. He saw Fatima sitting on the bed deep in thought. To Salvador seeing his sister in such a position was a surprise he walked over slowly “what are you thinking about?” Fatima turned her head to him and stared “I am thinking of how to free you.” Salvador raised his eyebrow “free me? What do you mean?” Fatima sat up from the bed sighing “look at yourself caught in the snakes trap. You don’t even realise it.” Salvador grew concerned his sister seemed calm, no fiery temper and no shouting either. Salvador tapped his fingers together nervously “Fatima, I thi-” Fatima held up her hand “don’t say anything Salvador I know what you are going to say and it’s a no. I won’t join them, I won’t get to know them and I hate everything they stand for.”

Fatima creased her brow “I came here and waited. I wanted to see you to resolve myself, to understand that I might have to do something for the sake of everyone else.” Salvador squinted his eyes in confusion “you have to do something for the sake of everyone else?” Fatima nodded, for a split second Salvador saw the face his sister before she joined the blood cult “indeed, my dear brother listen to me just once. Just this one time, don’t leave your room in the next few days. Starting from today, don’t leave your room.”

Salvador scratched the back of his head he wondered what Fatima is doing “what if I have to practice? What if they ask for for me?” Fatima walked forward and grabbed both of his shoulders “ignore their summons, block your door anything. Just stay here.” Salvador could see his sister is now almost pleading, Salvador nodded slowly “I will. I-” Fatima held his lips “enough speaking. Let your big sister do the work now.” Fatima let go of Salvador’s lips, she walked towards the room door she turned her head back “I am going out for something. Keep your promise.” Salvador nodded “okay.” Fatima nodded back and left the room. Salvador stood within his room in silence. He wondered what his sister is doing and considering how she almost begged to stay in his room, Salvador hoped she is not doing anything dangerous. Salvador felt anxious he felt a strange need to chase after her. Salvador paced the room she told him not to leave but her last conversation made him want to reach for the door.

Salvador sighed as he heard a knock, it was a soft knock. Salvador stared at the door he waited. His sister said to ignore those who come to his door he was about to move away until he heard another knock and a familiar voice “Salvador! It’s me Beleth!” Salvador flinched his mouth felt dry. He wondered just perhaps he could talk to Beleth of his concerns. For some reason in these past weeks he feel he could utterly trust him. Salvador watched the door as the knock came again he found himself slowly walking to the door. As he reached the door his finger hovered over the button to open it. Salvador closed his eyes as he pressed the button to open his door. Beleth is now in front of him smiling “Salvador, I am heading to the bar want to come?” Salvador shifted slightly in front of Beleth.

Beleth’s smile left his face he spoke firmly “something is wrong isn’t there?” Salvador jumped he cursed as he remembered that Beleth can pick up such things. Salvador’s shoulders went slack “yes, there is…” Beleth nodded “may I come in?” Salvador stepped aside to let Beleth in “yes, please come in.” Beleth walked into the room he walked towards the bed and sat down frowning “so tell me Beleth what’s the matter.”

Salvador rubbed his arm he wondered if he should tell Beleth, he remembered his sister’s words Adelram appears kind but perhaps Beleth might be different. Salvador took a breath “I am worried about my sister.” Beleth raised his eyebrow “oh? Why is that?” Salvador gripped his hands together sweat streaked his hands “these past few weeks Fatima seemed… far more aggressive and today? Now she is calm and speaking of finding resolve. She also talks of doing something for everyone’s sake.” Beleth’s eyes suddenly turned black a darkness consumed the entirety of his eyes “I see, I assume she is hiding something.” Salvador furrowed his brows “hiding something?” Beleth nodded he turned his head towards the wall “these past few weeks she has been coming and going from the lower levels. I thought nothing of it perhaps she wanted to be with those of the blood cult. The news you delivered to me makes me… concerned.”

Salvador gripped his hands more tightly he cursed, Salvador felt that perhaps telling Beleth might be a mistake. Beleth sat up from his bed the darkness drained from his eyes and returned to milky white “right we will go see what she is doing.” Salvador blinked “what?” Beleth scratched his head “she is not far, I can still feel her if I focus. We will follow her. Come.” Beleth walked to the door he pressed the button to open it, Beleth turned his head back “Come Salvador.” Beleth repeated. Salvador looked down “eer.” Beleth sighed in response “Salvador, she is your sister if she is doing something foolish you might be able to convince her to stop.” Salvador looked up “convince her?” Beleth nodded “yes, don’t worry I will be with you.” Salvador slowly walked to the door “right. I will come with you.”

As they both left the room Salvador watched Beleth’s back he could tell he seemed somewhat agitated. Salvador upped his pace to walk with Beleth “what if my sister is doing something foolish? What if I can’t convince her to stop?” Beleth continued to walk he spoke without looking at him “then she will be in dangerous territory Salvador.” Salvador gulped when he heard Beleth’s words “perhaps someone else convinced her to do something? May-” Beleth spoke firmly interrupting him he shook his head “your sister is smart Salvador. She is not exactly a follower either.” Salvador was about to say something else to retort but deep down he knew it to be true. His sister had a fiery passion she climbed the ranks of the blood cult quickly. Salvador still hoped she is not mixed up in anything bad. They both walked in silence as they took the steps down to the lower levels as they walked down it was like Salvador was greeted to another world. The ship started to look more like the world eaters ship and the smell stinged his nose. Salvador frowned “it smells..” Beleth grinned “disgusting right?”

Salvador nodded “yeah.” Beleth sighed “I have tried to convince Adelram to do something about it.” Salvador blinked in surprise “oh really? Is he going to renovate the lower levels?” Beleth chuckled “renovate? I wanted him to do that in a manner of speaking. Anyway let’s focus on the task at hand.” Salvador watched Beleth’s eyes turn black his head darted around like animal until he pointed. “That way, follow me Salvador.” Moving through the lower level Salvador found quite hard the smell it seemed so revolting he wondered how Beleth can stand it. As they passed through the corridors he saw people peeking out of rooms but as Beleth passed they quickly shut their doors. Salvador saw their fear clearly yet as he walked with Beleth Salvador found he felt no such fear. He felt secure, even safe around Beleth.

Salvador did not understand what other people saw that frightened them. They eventually reached a corridor Beleth stopped he looked around. “How odd, no one is here but..” Salvador watched Beleth walk to a door Salvador moved to follow but Beleth held up his hand “stay there Salvador.” Salvador froze, Beleth crept up to a door. Salvador watched Beleth place his ear to the door slowly, gently. Salvador could perceive that Beleth is listening for something. Several minutes passed and Beleth furrowed his brow. Salvador could see he is concerned about something and after a moment a large frown creased his features. He leaned back from the door silently. Salvador raised his eyebrow “wh-” Salvador blinked and suddenly Beleth was in front of him he held his finger to his lips “sssssh. Come” Beleth said quietly. Beleth moved his hand away and walked the other direction back to the steps.

Confused Salvador followed him, he wanted to ask questions but considering what Beleth just did he held his tongue. They walked in silence until they got back to the upper levels. Salvador nodded “ri-” Beleth quickly turned and placed his hand over his mouth “quiet Beleth, we will speak in my room.” Salvador nodded as Beleth removed his hand.

As they walked Salvador wondered what got Beleth so worked up, eventually they reached a door Beleth pressed a button and walked in. Salvador shook his head he was still confused as he walked into Beleth’s room. The doors closed, Salvador looked around and in surprise Beleth’s room is normal. No outlandish paintings, no multi coloured walls or chained slaves either.

Beleth turned the chair at his desk he faced it towards the bed and gestured to his bed with one of his hands “sit Salvador.” Salvador sat on the bed he rubbed his neck “so what is going on Beleth?” Beleth gave a heavy sigh “your sister is being very foolish.” Salvador raised his eyebrow “in what way?” Beleth creased his brow “your sister is fostering a rebellion and going by what I heard a great many people are involved.” Salvador’s heart jumped “w-what? Why would she do that!?”

Beleth shrugged “considering how she holds the blood god sacred it does not surprise me. In the end it doesn't matter anymore.” Salvador began sweating he clenched his hands “why? Perhaps we could convince her?” Beleth shook his head “your sister has made a grave mistake. She was taken to live in what some would call luxury and essentially spat in Adelram’s face. Plus the fact she is fostering a rebellion in the name of the blood god.” Salvador’s mouth quivered “you can’t do anything!? Please there must be some way to save her!”

Beleth frowned “it’s too late, what I heard it’s almost time for them to trigger it. We only have one duty Salvador.” Salvador bit his lip “what duty?” Beleth nodded “since you came to me with this. At most this will absolve you but you sister and those who support her? They will be killed or worse.” Salvador shot up from his bed “you are clos-” Beleth held up his hand “I am still human, honestly I personally don’t know how Adelram will react to this news.”

Salvador looked down “Beleth, what should I do?” Salvador turned his head slightly, Beleth rose from his chair “you have two choices. If you don’t come with me to report your sister then..” Salvador gulped “I am an enemy… right?” Beleth nodded “indeed. I personally don’t want you to die so please make the right decision. Come with me to Adelram’s chambers.”

Salvador looked to his hands they were shaking, sweat lined them his sister always looked out for him she was always there until she embraced the blood god. Salvador tried to search for any good memory since she joined the blood cult he searched and searched. Yet all he found was emptiness, fear. Oddly, Salvador to his confusion did not feel fear for Fatima’s life he felt the fear of losing his place here. This place that finally feels like a home of sorts. Salvador did not recall anyone good on the world eater ship even among the humans but since being taken and helping Adelram he felt a strange sense of purpose as he started to play his cello again. Salvador clinched his eyes shut, he breathed in and then out he opened his eyes and turned to Beleth. “I-I w-will go with you.” Beleth smiled “good now follow me.”

Salvador left the room with Beleth, Salvador wondered if he made the right decision.

Tarkhan walked the halls of the ship, they were preparing to dive into the sea of souls, for some reason since Batu spoke to him he found it hard to practice. His bladework felt off and even Ganzorig noticed as they sparred. Tarkhan frowned “I can’t concentrate, Batu said my sword will break in the jaws of the wolf..” Tarkhan shook his head, he normally practised his blade work to clear his mind but the fact that Batu feels he is drinking too much from the cup has him worried.

Tarkhan wondered why would practicing be a danger? He wondered what danger would be to hone yourself as weapon so you can take the heads of your enemy? Tarkhan looked to his dao he placed his hand to the handle and flicked his blade out making several quick movements in the air he sheathed his blade and grunted “I could do it quicker.. Far more quicker. I am distracted.” Tarkhan continued to walk until in the distance he saw his Khan, Ganzorig he stepped to the side and bowed “Khan.” Ganzorig stopped he smiled “greetings Tarkhan.” Tarkhan rose “and greetings to you khan.” Ganzorig placed his hand on Tarkhan’s pauldron “is something wrong Tarkhan?” Tarkhan shook his head “no, I am fine.”

Ganzorig shook his head “you are frowning you seem agitated, I can tell considering how much we spar.” Tarkhan sighed, Ganzorig knows his mannerism’s too well now “yes, something is wrong. Ganzorig raised his eyebrow “what is it?” Tarkhan felt the need to unburden himself he told Ganzorig of the wisdom Batu shared with him. Ganzorig removed his hand from his pauldron and stroked his chin “I see.. so that is why you seemed so unfocused.”

Ganzorig nodded “then you shall be my second.” Tarkhan’s eyes went wide “you already have one! Li-” Ganzorig cut him off “it would be foolish to ignore Batu’s wisdom. Do not worry my Lieutenant will keep his place this is advisory.” Tarkhan eyes went wide he bowed “I do not deserve it.” Ganzorig roughly lifted Tarkhan from his bow “enough bowing, you are my brother. Come let us talk more.” Tarkhan walked with Ganzorig they talked at length on different combat techniques and how to adequately prepare to fight the traitors. As they talked of the traitors, Tarkhan’s blood boiled he would enjoy the battle to come as he removes their heads from their shoulders.

As the ship moon dancer began to enter the warp they separated as they both decided to prepare privately for the war ahead. As Tarkhan walked back to the training room he felt oddly better after speaking to Ganzorig properly and being in his presence seemed to calm him down. Tarkhan moved his hand to his blade and flicked his blade out repeating the simple movements from before. As he sheathed his blade he smiled “that is much better.”

Tarkhan made his way back to the training room he looked at the repaired servitors he pressed the button at the end of the room to activate them. Tarkhan slowly put on his helmet while smiling “I will be the perfect weapon for my Khan. I will not let him down.” Tarkhan gripped the handle of his blade as the servitors charged towards him.

Fatima looked at everyone in the meeting room, everyone seemed ready, committed everyone craved victory and vengeance. Fatima could feel the gaze of the blood father upon her the roars of approval got louder and louder after every meeting. When she sleeps she see’s horned daemons leering at her in the dark waiting, waiting patiently for the tide of blood to come. Adam walked towards her “everyone wants to start now.” Fatima nodded “we will begin the operation in 24 hours, get the word out. Have everyone in position and ready with the weapons Nilsa has developed.” Fatima smiled since the first meeting slaves that bore anger in their hearts approached her or one of her many trusted associates. Their war of vengeance will be a tide that will drown the degenerates.

Adam then called her name breaking her reverie “Fatima, I will get the word out.” Fatima nodded “good. I just wanted to say Adam that we are doing the right thing.” Adam nodded “I know, many of the serfs on the upper levels are joining in as well.” Adam then looked away slightly, Fatima could see he wanted to ask something she folded her arms “what is it?” Adam sighed “what of your brother?”

Fatima frowned “I spoke to him. Do not worry I am resolved to do what is necessary if he does not listen to me.” Fatima sighed “after working with you Adam. Honestly I wish you were my brother.” Adam gave Fatima a thin smile “we are brother and sister under the blood father Fatima. Both our blood siblings have been stolen by the Astartes above.” Fatima nodded “indeed. Anyway it’s time to get ready.. One more speech.”

Fatima walked to the middle of the room she clapped to quieten everyone down. “Right, the time is coming brothers and sisters! I can hear lord khorne roaring for our victory! Prepare yourselves! Prepare your minds and hearts! Soon our war of vengeance will begin! The leaders will get out the keywords to begin our war! Those above will not suspect a thing! The degenerates are so blind with their perversions they won’t see the warriors of the blood father striking them down! Now my brothers and sisters in the next few hours our victory will come!”

Everyone pounded their fists in the air chanting “victory for the blood father! Victory for Khorne!” Fatima grinned her blood boiled for war in 24 for hours the eye of the blood god will fall upon the followers of the serpent and khorne will get his tally of skulls.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/05 03:19:34


Post by: shinros


Since Malign portents came out I will begin working on my AOS story again. Also I am quite excited to write the next few chapters of this story.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/05 14:29:55


Post by: lliu


Well this is about to get interesting. Look forward for what's to come!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/06 04:01:36


Post by: shinros


Chapter 6

Salvador stood with Beleth at Adelram’s chamber doors, Salvador found he was shaking nervously he wondered how Adelram would react. He wondered what he will do. Beleth pushed the doors open he stepped inside. Salvador slowly followed. Salvador entered Adelram’s chambers with Beleth he could see Adelram is in discussion with two Astartes. One wore a hood and held spiked censer like weapon and the other wore terminator armour. Adelram sighed “look both you, we can’t trust him.” The terminator stepped forward “yet he has resources, connections and in this day and age we need such things.” Adelram shook his head “Silas need I remind you the last time we accepted an invitation?”

Salvador looked at the terminator Adelram referred him to as Silas. The hooded Astartes then spoke up “I am of a mind of Silas, this is not Abbadon this is a member of the third sending this message. I wonder why call for us when you have made up your mind? Unless you are not sure?” Adelram paced slightly he sighed heavily again “Yes... I can see the advantages, but I just have a bad feeling about it hence why I called you both.” Beleth watched the conversation taking place he walked forward interrupting the conversation “Adelram there is a problem.”

Adelram raised his eyebrow “problem? What sort of problem?” Beleth gestured “come Salvador.” Salvador jumped “y-yes” Salvador walked forward. Adelram stared at him “what is it?” Beleth nodded “speak Salvador.” Salvador gulped “my sister is doing something… bad.” Adelram folded his arms “bad? Like what?” Salvador’s mouth turned dry it was like ash lined his mouth “s-she i-is gathering people to revolt…” Salvador waited, he waited for the anger and to his shock Adelram simply sighed “really? Does she have a death wish?” Beleth furrowed his brow at Adelram “don’t you dare..” Adelram raised his eyebrow “dare what?”

Beleth shook his head in annoyance “you don’t see this as a problem do you?” Adelram shrugged “I do, but what can slaves do to us? What resources could they use to harm us? Honestly if this revolt occurs at least it will give my brothers something to do.” Silas almost shouted “It is a problem!” Adelram turned his head to Silas “how so?” Silas scowled “those who are deemed lesser is rising against their betters! Death should be visited upon them! Unending torment should be visited on the ring masters!” Marthas gestured to calm Silas down “yes this news is problematic but Adelram is right how can slaves be a threat? I assume slaves on the lower levels plot everyday to overthrow us.” Silas stomped his foot on the ground in anger “it does not matter whether they can or not! We should attack these people now for daring to even think such a thing!”

Adelram shook his head “enough of that,” He looked to Beleth “As Marthas said slaves plot everyday on the lower levels. To overthrow us to fight us. Even if it comes to that what can they do? You should relax a little” Beleth sighed “fine, fine think that way. If it turns out worse..” Adelram folded his arms he spoke firmly “it won’t.” Salvador could see Beleth biting his lip slightly he turned away, Salvador followed as they exited Adelram’s chambers with each step Salvador could tell that Beleth is incredibly angry. Beleth suddenly stopped in the hall to Salvador’s surprise “Salvador, from now you will stay in my room. Follow me.”

Salvador stammered “w-what? Why?” Beleth hissed “don’t argue. Please.” Salvador nodded “okay.” They walked back to Beleth’s room as they entered Salvador looked around “what are you going to do?” Beleth turned “prepare, I had a good feeling he would not view it as much of a problem. Most Astartes wouldn’t, what surprised me though is that Silas wants to deal with them now. Still what I did was more for you than anything else.” Salvador raised his eyebrow “more for me?” Beleth nodded “yes, because if something does happen and if this revolt is more than it appears Adelram won’t touch you because you came to him with the information.” Salvador blinked in surprise “you did that to save me?” Beleth nodded “indeed, now..” Beleth turned away and went under the bed and pulled out a large case.

Beleth picked up the case and placed it on his desk. He turned to Salvador “I want you to rest.” Salvador furrowed his brow “I am not tired though.” Beleth smiled “I know hence why I want you to rest.” Salvador felt a small sting in his mind, his eyes suddenly felt heavy “yeah, thinking about it. I feel tired.” Salvador rubbed his eyes. Beleth nodded “you can rest on my bed.” Salvador walked over to Beleth’s bed he needed to sleep, he felt the urge to lie down and close his eyes. Salvador crawled into Beleth’s bed before he shut his eyes he saw Beleth pulling out a giant crossbow from the case.

Salvador tried to keep his eyes open but he felt so tired, darkness began consuming his vision as he drifted to sleep.

Abraham rubbed his neck in frustration he wondered how he will explain to Jedrick that the cultists added to their number haven’t turned up for training today. Abraham looked around the other Astartes largely did not care to his surprise. But he knew, Jedrick is different he understands that much after joining and serving him. Plus he provides other niceties when training is done he largely let’s him do what he wants. Abraham sighed “maybe I should get a drink? I wonder if Beleth or even Luke will come? Abraham smiled “I got to get Beleth to bring Salvador, perhaps him being there might finally land me a partner?” Abraham chuckled to himself.

Abraham nodded “right, let me go visit Beleth.” As he was about to approach the door they opened a stream of people entered the hall. Abraham raised his eyebrow in confusion at first he thought it was the missing cultists but the amount people entering the hall was staggering. Abraham could also see Astartes rising from their seats in surprise staring around the hall again Abraham just realised how many of the people he actually knows is also missing. Abraham’s eyes went wide with realisation he swore as he quickly dashed for cover, the armed people surged the hall, Astartes drew their weapons power blades ignited with crackling blue energy. The intruders swarmed over cultists that were too slow to react they were beaten and stabbed to death with clubs, knives and swords. As cultists moved to their weapons the attackers riddled them with bullets from their autoguns.

Abraham examined them more closely many wore makeshift armour, but what surprised him most of all are the charms and paint that lined their gear. They were runes to the blood god, Abraham swore again as he poked out of cover he got his autogun ready and fired into the crowd. Many crumpled to the ground blood leaking from their wounds, the Astartes charged Blades whipping out slicing apart the attackers. Yet the Astartes were outnumbered, the Attackers jumped on top of them stabbing and hitting the weak points in their armour. The gorget, the back of the knees and arms. Abraham continued firing at those who approached he wondered how this could happen. How could such a large revolt take place. Abraham looked over to the Astartes again, blood leaked from their wounds as they threw off the humans that piled unto them. The crowd of attackers separated and several people holding welding guns came forward. The welding guns had wires crossing it’s frame, it also looked heavily modified.

They also wore better armour than the rest they ran close to the Astartes and fired a surge of deep blue flame came out of the weapon. Abraham heard something that he would never expect to hear from his masters, their screams of agony. The Astartes that was hit by the flame crumpled to the ground the pink on his armour scorched and his armour is clearly melted. upon seeing the dead Astartes the people assaulting them redoubled their attacks as they screamed praises to the blood god. The Astartes switched to attention and their blades moved like lightning upon seeing the threat.They hacked and diced apart anyone that tried to get close. As the bodies piled around them blood covered the floor. Abraham began to feel a headache as people died the smell in the room changed, the smell of blood permeated his nose along with a coppery taste in his mouth.

The attackers that wielded the welding guns approached the Astartes one at a time firing taking them down one by one. They also used those who surged the Astartes as cover plus the Astartes had to deal with those firing autoguns at them. The autoguns largely did nothing but it was a distraction Abraham can see that. Abraham poked out of cover and fired again, this time it drew their attention. Several of the attackers broke away and charged his position, Abraham poked out of the cover he gunned one down, as they crumpled to the floor Abraham could see they did not spare their fellow even a glance. One was closing in they screamed “for the blood cult! Blood for the blood god!” Abraham shook his head “you want to offer your blood!? Fine!”

Abraham fired his autogun again hitting the blood cultist in the head breaking their run, Abraham then fired several times in the body. They dropped to the ground blood leaking from their wounds.

Abraham looked around again the smell of blood and the coppery taste increased in intensity, the Astartes murdering the blood cultists caused the hall to appear like a charnel house. Abraham narrowed his eyes “what do they hope to gain?” As those words left Abraham’s lips an unnatural voice creased his mind the voice is firm and cold. It made Abraham shudder in fear as the voice said “blood for the blood god…” Abraham pointed his gun around frantically. The blood under the Astartes started to bubble and suddenly a sword shot out piercing the Astartes through the head. The Astartes sagged on the blade, Abraham stared at the sword it hurt Abraham’s eyes, the sword burned with an orange flame but the fire surrounding the weapon is clearly unnatural. Abraham looked down to the arm wielding the weapon he saw a muscled red hand gripping the blade, strange black spines covered the arm.

Watching the Astartes die the whole room froze, everyone stared at the weapon, until more red hands started to reach out of the pool of blood. Abraham hands were sweating, the smell of blood filled his nose. The words continued to echo in his mind the voice grew louder and louder “Blood for the blood god, Blood for the blood god, BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD.”

Out of the pile of dead bodies and from the pool of blood sprang out daemons, their skin is red and sizzled with fire, lashing purple tongues flicked out and each daemon had a crown of black horns. The daemons all bore burning swords that seemed to be at odds with the very air. The one Abraham assumed to be the leader of the daemons bore the rune of khorne on its forehead it screamed “Bloodletters! Kill for Khorne! Collect skulls for the blood god!” The daemons chanted as they pounced upon the Astartes, hacking and dicing them to pieces. The blood cult yelled and screamed with the daemons piling upon anyone wearing the colours of the emperor's children legion. Abraham watched this all unfold and even now he has found that he has stopped firing his gun. One bloodletter looked at him the one that bore the rune on it’s forehead, it looked at him with it’s burning red eyes it smiled “I will take your skull for khorne!”

Abraham’s mouth quivered, he was terrified he could not press down on the trigger his hands were shaking until he blinked and realised his gun slipped from his hands. The bloodletter roared and charged, Abraham tried to roll away but the bloodletter leaped towards him and impaled him on it’s sword. Abraham screamed “It h-hurts! I-it hurts! N-no!” The bloodletter bought him forward with his blade it spoke calmly even with the blade burning within him watching such a daemon speak calmly terrified him “your suffering will end. Suffering is not the way of the blood god. Die as a warrior. Know that as you die Katarnax offered you up to the blood god.” The bloodletter brought up it’s hand it burned with fire. Abraham tried to struggle but it simply caused more pain, the bloodletter placed it’s hand on his head.

Abraham felt his head burning he screamed and soon he felt nothing.

Katanax watched the human die his face burning away revealing the bleached bone he grinned “skulls for khorne…” He tore the skull from the head of the human and threw his body off his blade. He raised the skull high “Skulls for khorne! Skulls for Khorne!” the humans turned to him and chanted the same as they began collecting heads from the dead. Katarnax could feel the humans faith, their fury and drive for vengeance against the minions of the hated serpent.

Katarnax roared “True warriors are born in blood! Give more Blood to Khorne! Offer up their skulls!” Katarnax watched the warriors of khorne continue to collect heads and cut away at the remaining stragglers. He grinned he wondered if their leader has joined the fray? Once he comes they can take the head of the leader…

Katarnax walked forward leaving the corpse of the headless human “we must offer more skulls. more... “

Luke walked the halls of the ship Lily kicked him out of their room because she wanted a small gathering for women since the "guys" go out for drinks. She even has Jimmy serving and making cocktails. Luke sighed “comes with being captain…” Luke perked up after thinking about Jimmy “maybe I should visit Abraham then?” Luke smiled “yeah let’s do that!” Luke began whistling while he walked down the hall he was about to make a corner until he heard a gunshot. Luke quickly placed his back to the wall and drew his pistol. He poked his head around the corner he saw a large group of people surrounding several serfs. One was already dead they bore a bullet hole in the head. Luke picked out their weapons there were not that many people wielding guns, while majority held close combat weapons in the group. Luke then moved to their gear he spotted runes and charms covering their makeshift armour.

Luke narrowed his eyes he whispered “they look similar to the blood cultists…” Luke watched a serf cry out “please wait! Don’t kill me! I-I” The one Luke assumed to be the leader brought up to what appears to be a welding gun. Scars covered his face and arms he had the same rune that covered their gear was painted on his forehead “vengeance for my sister! Vengeance against all degenerates!”

He pressed the trigger a gout of deep blue flame consumed the serf, their scream echoed in the halls. Luke stopped watching the blood cultists he thought of Lily and the possible fact she might be in danger. He moved away from the wall slowly and went back the way he came.

As he got some distance he broke into a run he rushed down the halls as quickly as he can. As Luke made his way back to his room he pushed in the code numbers to open the door. With a click the door slid open he stepped in to see Elizabeth, Isira, Isabella, Camilla and Lily sitting around a table being served cocktails by Jimmy. When Luke entered Lily rose from her seat “Luke why are you here? I thou-” Lily stared at his gun “did something happen?”

Luke nodded “yes, we need to seal the room now!” Luke turned to the door he pushed several buttons to engage the locks. Lily came towards him “what’s wrong?” Luke shook his head “the blood cultists are revolting!” Isira turned her head laughing “they are mad, they must have a death wish. The Astartes will kill them.” Isabella nodded “yes, I don’t even see what the fuss is about…”

Luke shook his head “I don’t care! All I care about is keeping Lily safe!” Luke looked to Lily his words seemed to surprise her “never knew you were brave.” Luke cast his eyes down slightly “I have to be. I won’t be like him.” Lily raised her eyebrow “like him? Like him who?” Luke breathed in and then out “don’t worry about it! Are there guns in the room?” Lily nodded “yes in my chest over there.” Lily pointed at a chest at the back of the room. Luke ran over and opened it. He pulled out a autogun. As he turned to face the table Isira got up “I don’t see why you are fussing. This “revolt” will be over quickly.” Camila frowned “I think we should still stay here though. Just in case.”

Luke can see everyone is now staring at him even Jimmy “you don’t see this as a problem!?” Lily sighed “fine let me check.” Lily walked over to her chest of drawers she picked up a datapad. Luke raised his eyebrow “what are you doing?” Lily looked up “checking the cameras. I had them linked to my datapad.” Luke watched Lily press buttons on her datapad and after a moment her mouth hanged and she suddenly dropped her datapad.

Lily looked to Luke her mouth slightly agape, she then clapped her hands together “all of you grab a gun now!” Isabella scoffed “why? I thought we are meant to be relaxing?” Lily scowled “unless you want to be hacked to pieces by mad cultists and daemons you better get a damn weapon!”

Jimmy frowned “so I assume I won’t be serving cocktails anymore?” Isira smiled at Jimmy “it seems so dear.” Jimmy simply sighed. Luke looked to Lily “what do we do?” Lily stroked her chin “the door is sturdy and can even handle high temperatures, it’s the daemons I am worried about.”

Lily moved her hand away from her chin and nodded “Isira, can you ward the door?” Isira inclined her head “I can do that.” Lily smiled “right everyone grab a weapon, we will put together some makeshift cover.” Luke raised his eyebrow “what do we do after that?” Lily gave Luke a heavy sigh “we simply wait.”

Jedrick stood at Noxus’ door waiting for Beleth, what surprised him more than anything is that his communication was urgent and the fact he should be in full wargear. Jedrick tapped the floor with his foot “I wonder what got him so worked up?” Jedrick sighed as he thought on a previous communication sent by Adelram, he wanted to talk to him about meeting lord commander Eidolon.

Since he knew what was coming he simply ignored it. More than anything he knows that Adelram wants someone to convince him to go. As Jedrick waited for several more minutes he heard footsteps out of the darkness he saw Beleth carrying a crossbow he is also wearing his skull helmet. Jedrick raised his eyebrow “I assume this is not one of our talks?” Beleth shook his head “No, I actually think it has begun already. I can feel the warp bending and tearing.” Jedrick crossed his arms “what has begun?” Beleth moved to Noxus’ door “the revolt.” Jedrick sighed “let me guess? The blood cultists?” Beleth titled his head to one side “so you knew?” Jedrick grumbled, he did not know but he could see clearly those taken from the world eater ship chafed under their re-training. “I could see signs but I was not sure.”

Beleth nodded “I see, even so perhaps now Adelram will be convinced it’s a threat.” Jedrick creased his brow “let me guess, he thought they were not threat?” Beleth inclined his head “yup. Hence why I keep saying you should speak to him.” Jedrick looked away “whoever will replace me will do it.” Beleth punched the door in anger “why do you keep putting it off!? You think that Adelram will listen to the person who kills you!? Do you really think that!?” Jedrick watched the fury radiating from Beleth, he can understand why he is frustrated but in the end the dark princes hand was at work and he does not want to get in the way of that.

Jedrick shook his head “there is a reason, just bare it for now.” Beleth sighed as he punched in the code to open the large doors. As they slid open Jedrick followed Beleth inside. Entering the room he saw Caius and his serfs at work going over Noxus’ chasis. Noxus growled “why do you keep touching me! Leave me alone!”

Caius responded his voice monotone “we must prepare you, war is spilling across the ship.” Beleth walked towards Caius “Caius what are you doing here?” Caius turned around “As I said to Astartes Noxus I am preparing him.” Jedrick crossed his arms “you barely come here, you stick to your workshop what happened?” Caius released a screeching dirge of binary the screeching died away after several seconds his monotone voice returned as he said “my own serfs betrayed me. They attacked with crude welding guns. I had my servitors tie them up as I escaped with those loyal to me.”

Caius looked up to Noxus “I was going to rouse Astartes Noxus since the halls are crawling with those who scream to the blood god.” Jedrick furrowed his brow “the halls are crawling with them?” Beleth nodded “yup, it seems they are trying to avoid this place for now.” Jedrick looked up to Noxus who is still growling in anger “I can see why.”

Beleth walked up to Noxus “how about we kill some fools, for old time sake?” Noxus stepped forward “if it gets me away from him. I will.” Caius screeched “we must do all the canticles! You can’t just leave!” Noxus snorted “don’t care. Anyway I am itching to crush the followers of the blood god.” Jedrick looked to Beleth “so where are we going first?”

Beleth turned “we will go to Adelram’s chambers. I suspect the enemy wants his head.” Caius and Beleth moved out of the way as Noxus began moving to the door “enough talking I want to kill.” Jedrick grinned “aye, let’s get to that.” Jedrick removed his helmet from his belt and placed it upon his head. He drew his axe and dagger he looked over to Beleth “are you ready?”

Beleth readied his crossbow “yes, these blood cultists will rue the day they decided to do this.” Jedrick turned back to the doors grinning. The light above the doors chimed green as they slid open Noxus walked out. Jedrick followed along with Beleth. As they got back into the hall Jedrick pointed down the hall “let’s go the quickest route available.” Noxus singled a approval on his heads-up display and Beleth simply nodded.

Marthas crushed the head of another blood cultist with his weapon they swarmed around him like flies. He twisted his censer and flicked his censer in different directions all of the blood cultists looked like they were moving in slow motion. Even if this is the case he had to be observant several Astartes of the temple were taken down by the welding guns they wielded.

Marthas looked over to the other side of the hall, Silas along with the terminators treated the cultists as simply chaff as they swung their power weapons they died in droves. Silas grunted as he spoke through their communication channel “Adelram should of listened to me! You should of listened!” Marthas crushed the head of another cultist “I know, but this will be dealt with in time! They are only human!”

Marthas looked over to Sebastian to see how he is doing he killed cultists in silence with some of the chosen. Any cultist that approached them simply dropped to the ground as their weapons danced through the air. Marthas nodded "he is fine.." Marthas then heard a screaming blood cultist approaching him he turned and bought eligos down upon their head shattering it. Marthas smacked aside another enemy he stopped for a second after hearing a scream. The scream belonged to a terminator who was taken down by one of the welding guns, All those who wielded the welding guns began converging upon the terminators. Marthas grimaced “they are almost never ending…” Marthas looked to their room. The wooden doors were closed he shouted “Naberius! Sitri! What are you doing!”

As he spoke their names the doors swung open, two robed figures stepped out Sitri called out “sorry! We thought you can handle it!” She said mockingly. Marthas sighed “enough! Help us kill them!” Marthas sighed as he smacked aside a blood cultist their blood splattering on the ground. Marthas looked back to Naberius and Sitri they were both in discussion until Sitri shrugged, Naberius shouted “we will help!” Silas shouted “what use are those two!?” Marthas grinned “you shall see..” Silas grunted “see what!?”

Marthas watched Naberius and Sitri removed their robes, Naberius wore a long purple robe that bore no sleeves along with two golden armbands. Words of power and prayers to the dark prince covered his arms. Sitri removed her robes she wore a leather like corset along with tight leather trousers. She also wore no shoes. Marthas could see she had her sabre ready at her hip. Both Sitri and Naberius charged.

Naberius arms glew with purple fire as he released a wave of purple flame towards the doors incinerating many of the attacking cultists. Sitri danced into the crowd of people she drew her saber and activated it’s power field. As she moved through the crowd limbs and heads flew off bodies. As the cultists died to Marthas it was like the blood was following her movements whipping around in the air.

Marthas did not much hold much interest in art, but watching Sitri kill was beautiful to him. Each sword stroke was perfect, each movement of her body he did not see even a single mistake in her form. Even the blood cultists mouths were agape with her beauty along with her bladework.

Along with Sitri and Naberius they were finally pushing back, the tide of blood cultists were running thin. Marthas pointed his weapon “push forward!” The terminators along with the Astartes surged forward bashing and cutting aside any cultist that got close. As their blood soaked the floors, Marthas could see that their will is faltering he grinned. As the cultists fell back to the door he could see Naberius torturing those that were still alive, Silas crushed another with his boot and Sitri was holding a head.

Marthas raised his eyebrow as Sitri looked at the head like a lost lover she kissed it lovingly, which caused Marthas to furrow his brow “Sitri what are you doing?” Sitri removed her lips from the mouth of the head she looked at him blood covering her lips and gave him a smile “they say heads stay alive after a few seconds after you remove it. I wanted to taste his terror and despair before he dies…”

Marthas shrugged “very well, but remain focused.” Sitri nodded “don’t worry I am focused.” Marthas looked at the doors the cultists were simply standing there nervously. Silas snickered “they cry vengeance and scream for the blood but look! They are cowards! As fits lesser beings!” The Astartes cheered they were readying themselves to charge until Marthas heard a voice “blood for the blood god…” At once everyone froze Marthas guessed everyone heard it.

Marthas heard bubbling, and the smell of blood filled his nose and he began to taste ash in his mouth. Marthas looked to the ground the blood that soaked the floors were bubbling, Marthas bought his eyes to the door and near the entrance something shot out of the a blood. The blood sizzled against the large chariot like machine, what Marthas saw was a giant cannon being manned by two bloodletters that stood on a pedestal.

Marthas swore “get out of open ground! Get to cover!” The bloodletters on the cannon screamed “Skulls for Khorne!” The cannon fired a burning screaming skull it moved through the air and crashed into one of Silas’ terminators causing half of his body to be blown away. Silas bought up his twin-linked bolter and fired at the cannon. The bolter shells cracked into the chariot but it seem to not deter it. The cannon continued to fire a skull trailed straight to Ballard, Marthas shouted “Ballard get out of the way!” Ballard tried to duck but the skull caught him in mid-air as half of his body was blown away. Marthas, looked to the entrance as he ran to cover, the cultists were surging forward again. As Marthas moved to cover he ran through his head wondering how to take down such a beast. He looked over to see Silas along with his terminators laying down covering fire to distract the neverborn, so everyone can find safety.

Marthas ground his teeth while he thought he then heard a roaring beast and feet smashing upon the ground out the blood came three metal beats being mounted by bloodletters. The beasts released a great cry as the blood letters screamed “blood for the blood god! Kill the minions of the serpent!”

Marthas saw all of this and all he could do is simply swear.

Adelram got his gear ready, he could feel the warp twisting and distorting. Along with the cries of the neverborn belonging to the blood god. Adelram placed his helmet on cursing “I should of listened…” Adelram removed his blade from its sheath and made his way to the door. As he walked to the door he heard a slave shout out “where are you going!?” Adelram turned back in anger “You dare!” The chained slave smiled “I dare!”

Adelram strode to the slave power erupting from his body he grabbed their neck, and lifted them up “say that again..” The slave grinned while they cried tears of blood “I dare!” Then suddenly in the room all at once the slaves shouted “I dare!” Adelram dropped the slave in shock and stepped back “what? What is going on?” All the slaves spoke at once their voices distorting as they spoke “so many cries for vengeance. All I needed is a focal point.”

Adelram looked around all the slaves now had red eyes and cried tears of blood “so much hatred. Anger. The blood god heard it and sent me. He sent me to take your skull.” Adelram shook his head “so you listen to the cries of slaves? Pathetic.” The slaves chuckled “why shouldn’t the blood god listen? Their cries of anguish and rage were honest, Pure even. He even heard the ones in this very room. We are now here because the warriors on the ship have paid their tithe in blood.”

As Adelram listened to the neverborn’s words he recalled his conversation with Beleth, the slaves gave a guttral laugh “yes you should of listened to your slave. No.. not your slave his slave.” Adelram raised his eyebrow it was odd that he found a daemon of khorne speaking in such a calm manner but what confused him even more is the neverborn insinuated that Beleth does not belong to him.

Adelram hissed “what do you mean his slave?” The slaves smirked “I speak plainly, your slave exists and is only alive walking around by his will.” Adelram scowled, neverborn never speak plainly he sighed “fine, come and try and take my skull neverborn. I will send you back to your blood god.” All the slaves cocked their head to one side “a challenge? Very well let’s see if you can do it, come to me.”

All the slaves screamed, as they fell to their knees they began melting down into blood. As they chanted “blood for the blood god…” After a moment all that was left were their chains and out the blood came large daemonic dogs wearing collars with the rune of khorne dangling from them. All of them bore their teeth at Adelram. Adelram felt a small headache looking at them he shrugged “that’s it? Flesh hounds? Hmph.” Adelram readied his blade he gathered energy into his force sword to release a wave of energy at the neverborn. As he slashed sideways he felt a painful spike in his mind and no wave of energy came from his blade, just a small wave of light that fizzled in the air.

Adelram looked to his sword “what? What’s going on?” Adelram heard the voices of the slaves within his mind “you seek to use your cowardly power? Fight like a warrior minion of the serpent.” The flesh hounds snarled and charged at Adelram. Adelram speared one with his blade. The daemon yelped as Adelram threw the flesh hound aside as it burst into into ash and flame.

As Adelram killed one, two charged at him he slashed downwards killing one but the second bit into his leg piercing the ceramite of his power armour. The flesh hound bit deep causing Adelram to hiss in pain he stabbed his blade downwards killing the flesh hound. Adelram looked around the room as three more flesh hounds charged towards him. Adelram cursed, he looked at his leg, his wounds have began to heal but the bite into his armour was deep and if this keeps going it won’t be good. Adelram tried to call upon his psychic powers he tried to generate a ball of eldritch fire but it would simply sizzle in his hands and he would receive a piercing stab in his mind.

Adelram grimaced as he decided to charge at the three flesh hounds he stabbed one killing it, the second went for the leg that was damaged by the previous flesh hound and the third circled behind him. Adelram raised his blade to kill the one biting his leg but the third leaped and bit down on his pauldron throwing off his attack.

Adelram grit his teeth as the display within his helmet highlighted the damage. As the two hands went to work 4 came charging forward. One barreled into his chest knocking him over, while another hound moved to bite his other leg. Adelram looked around the room all of them were getting ready to attack. Adelram cursed “Dammit! So you get your dogs to fight me instead! Coward!” The slaves voices echoes in his mind "As I said you will come to me. Prove to me you are a warrior degenerate." A flesh hound began moving to his arm, Adelram grit his teeth as it bit down as it fangs sank into his arm. Adelram gasped in pain as the fangs pierced his skin.

Adelram then looked upwards to see a hound standing over him, blood dripping from it’s mouth and landing on the eye lenses of his helmet. Adelram began breathing rapidly as the hound opened its mouth revealing rows of long fangs. Adelram clenched his eyes shut then he heard his doors opening and a whistle sound in the air he heard the flesh hound yelping in pain. Adelram opened eyes the hound was gone, he felt the hounds removing their fangs from his body as he watched them charge to the door.

Adelram looked to the door he saw Beleth wielding a crossbow firing at the hounds. Out of the darkness came Jedrick laughing charging into the flesh hounds. He hewed through two hounds with his axe and killed another with his dagger. Beleth continued to fire at flesh hounds that approached Jedrick from his blind spots.

Adelram tried to get up, all the hounds moved from their positions and charged at Jedrick, Adelram called out “you can’t take them all on!” Jedrick laughed “I know that!” Adelram then heard stomping Noxus came through the doors smashing aside a flesh hound that was about to leap on Jedrick.

Noxus’ power scourge moved like a snake stabbing and piercing several hounds at once. Noxus grabbed a approaching hound and crushed it in his hand. Noxus sighed “the blood god sends it dogs? Pah! There is no fun in this!” Jedrick slashed two flesh hounds finally bringing silence to the room. He tapped his axe on Noxus chassis “hey we will get to the good stuff soon.” Noxus turned away “we better. I get tired if I get too bored.”

Adelram staggered to his feet “so you three came here first?” Beleth stepped forward “yes, I assume considering the nature of the blood god it was obvious that they tried to kill you.” Adelram folded his arms “so you have nothing else to say?” Beleth shook his head “No.”

Adelram sighed “y-” Beleth turned away “does not matter if I am right or not if you don’t listen. Now we just have to deal with the situation.” Adelram clenched his hands it felt somewhat odd when Beleth speaks to him in such a disrespectful manner. But looking around his chamber and the chains of the slaves lying in pools of blood he could not help but admit he was completely and utterly wrong again.

Adelram walked towards Jedrick “where is everyone else?” Jedrick shrugged “I assume Marthas, Sebastian and Silas are in the temple fighting.” Adelram nodded “what of Marius?” Jedrick sighed “you know he does his own thing.” Adelram sheathed his blade “I know but I doubt he could ignore the neverborn running around the ship.” Jedrick shrugged “I did not see him at the church on Athor considering how important of a battle that was as I said he does his own thing.”

Adelram shook his head he just hoped that he would appear now with his kakophoni, their prowess could easily push back the neverborn and rebels. Adelram looked into the darkness of the hall “right let us link up with Marthas then.” Everyone nodded, Noxus simply sighed “let us hope there is better sport in the temple…”



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/06 04:02:49


Post by: shinros


Don't underestimate

Spoiler:
Khorne cultists when they get enough blood tithe points.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/08 01:46:01


Post by: shinros


Chapter 7

Adelram ran down the hall with Jedrick, Beleth and Noxus. The nice thing about having Noxus with them majority of the blood cultists they run into ran in the other direction “still cowards..” said Adelram. Adelram looked back to Beleth thinking of his words from before, he thought perhaps if they captured “clean” slaves this might of not occurred. Adelram looked forward and shook his head “it does not matter now.. We have to deal with the situation.” Adelram made another corner he called out “we are approaching the temple get ready!” Everyone readied their weapons, as they made their way to the entrance it swarmed with blood cultists and neverborn. Noxus shouted “out of the way! Let me get close!” Adelram moved to the wall as Noxus charged forward crashing into the enemy reducing blood cultists to red mist.

A bloodletter tried to leap on Noxus and strike with it’s hellblade, Noxus smacked the bloodletter aside with his hand causing it to burst in blood and flame Noxus laughed “more! I need more!” Adelram raised his eyebrow and looked to Beleth “so since his upgrade he is always like this?” Beleth nodded “somewhat, I mean he could not feel anything before.” Jedrick chuckled “Adelram, just let him enjoy it.” Adelram stared at Noxus as he tore the enemy to pieces “perhaps we don’t need to do anything.” Said Adelram. Noxus’ power scourge darted in the air and impaled 4 daemons throwing them aside, they evaporated mid-air. Jedrick came forward “but where is the fun in that Adelram?” Adelram shrugged “didn’t you say to let him enjoy it?” Jedrick snickered “true.”

Adelram watched Noxus kill as as the corpses piled his chassis was drenched with the blood of the enemy. Adelram nodded compared to his old state Noxus is now far more brutal and his movements were like lightning, considering the fact he is a dreadnought. Adelram frowned as suddenly Noxus stopped killing and leaned forward unmoving. His power scourged draped to the ground and the fingers of his hand fell open.

Everyone in the hall froze, the blood cultists stepped back warily, Adelram raised his eyebrow “what happened?” Beleth came forward shaking his head “oh dear…” Adelram looked to Beleth “oh dear what?” Beleth clenched his crossbow “he is sleeping.” Adelram eyes shot to Noxus “what!? How!?” Jedrick shrugged “well looks like we got to step in.” Jedrick got his axe and dagger ready.

Adelram saw a bloodletter grin as he leaped into the air to attack Noxus suddenly Noxus hand shot upwards grabbing the Bloodletter in mid air. Noxus crushed the bloodletter in his hand leaving only ash and blood. The tendrils of his power scourge slithered and began dancing through the crowd.

Adelram breathed out a sigh of relief “we are lucky that he woke up.” Beleth shook his head “he is still sleeping I can hear it.” Adelram’s eyes shot to Beleth and then back to Noxus “he is still sleeping how is he still moving then!?” Jedrick laughed “he kills while sleepwalking? That’s amazing!” Adelram watched Noxus kill the enemy in silence what he could see is that Noxus is specifically aiming for the neverborn whittling their numbers down. As the neverborn died several blood cultists started to break from the group running away into the halls of the ship. As Noxus crushed the last bloodletter he turned and chased after those who ran away. Adelram called out “No! Come back! What are you doing!?” Jedrick tapped his axe on his pauldron “he is sleepwalking, he is not going to hear you.” Beleth readied his crossbow “yup, think of it this way he killed most of the neverborn.”

Adelram watched as Noxus vanished into the darkness of the hall his footsteps started to to become distant. Adelram sighed “maybe he will purge the upper levels as he chases them..” Adelram focused on the remaining blood cultists they took a step back as they noticed their daemon allies are now gone. Adelram flexed his hands “are you ready for your punishment slaves?” The Blood cultists fired their guns some moved to charge, Adelram smirked as he released a wave of purple mist, the blood cultists screamed as their bodies began to distort and twist. Adelram could see Jedrick was about to charge but stopped he sighed “you know, sometimes you just make things boring.” Adelram shrugged “not exactly in the mood to be honest. They dared to rebel.”

Adelram watched the blood cultists convulse and scream as the mist did its work. Watching them die was satisfying. As the last cultist toppled to the floor Adelram turned “how about we go in now?” Jedrick and Beleth nodded.

Marths charged forward, he darted to the side as a skull whizzed pass him, Marthas aimed for the beast being ridden by the Bloodletter. Several blood cultists tried to get in his way he whipped Eligos out in an arc taking off their heads. Marthas smashed aside a body as it toppled to the ground. The bloodletter cried “skulls for khorne!” The mechanical beast charged, Marthas readied himself he had to wait for the right moment. The beast roared and stomped towards him, as it inched closer and closer, Mathas got ready to swing Eligos. The beast opened it’s mouth small surges of flame erupted from it, Marthas narrowed his eyes he took a few steps forwards and swung his weapon.

The weapon crashed into the head of the beast caving it in, the mechanical beast fell to the ground. The bloodletter flew off the beast crashing unto the floor. It quickly got up snarling at Marthas. Marthas walked forward and brought up his weapon, the bloodletter moved to block. Marthas smashed through the neverborn’s guard, crushing it’s head.

The bloodletter crumpled to the floor, it’s body slowly broke down leaving only ash. Marthas looked to the beast as its body began to rust and crumble. Marthas took a breath of relief he then scanned the temple grounds, so many Astartes were dead surrounded by the corpses of the blood cultists. Marthas shook his head “this will cripple us…” He looked over to Sebastian and Silas stabbing and slashing away at one of the mechanical daemon beasts. While Naberius and Sitri were stemming the tide of blood cultists.

Marthas looked at the skull cannon it was getting ready to fire again, Marthas swore as gouts of flame spilled from the cannon in slow motion he saw the skull trailing towards him. Marthas ducked as the skull grazed passed his pauldron. Marthas hit the ground with a thud. Marthas slowly staggered to his feet as he was getting back up he heard the doors of the temple opening. Marthas looked towards the door and a familiar Astartes came forward he released a wave of purple flame incinerating several blood cultists at once. The skull canon turned as the bloodletters roared and snarled. Adelram hissed “get off my ship!” The skull canon fired it’s gun, Purple light erupted from Adelram's hand forming a shield, the flaming skull cracked against it exploding with a large gout of fire. Marthas watched the shield sizzled slightly, the shield then moved inwards towards Adelram. He gathered the energy of the shield together and released it at the skull cannon enveloping the skull cannon in a bright purple light.

Marthas had to cover his eyes the light was so bright even his augmented eyes could not handle it. Marthas heard the snarls of screams of the bloodletters as the light died away he all saw in their place was rusted pieces of metal and ash. Adelram walked towards him and out of the doors also came Beleth and Jedrick.

Marthas turned to check on Silas and Sebastian, the mechanical beast is now to one side rusting away. The bloodletter is on the ground it tried to get up but Silas strode forward and crushed it with his boot as he snarled “disgusting creature!” Silas turned and trudged towards Marthas with Sebastian following him. Silas growled “look who comes now…” Marthas gestured “calm yourself Silas, I understand why you are upset.” Silas scowled “of course I am upset! If he listened to me on Athor, if all of you listened we would not be in this situation!” Marthas furrowed his brow “what does Athor have to do with this?”

Silas grumbled “think! If we followed what I said we would not have wandered into that trap! If we did not walk into that trap our father would not have had to intervene using.. Those two.” Marthas did not exactly like where this conversation is going but he fell into the trap of the gem also. He should of agreed with Silas Marthas nodded “you are right we should of listened. At times I wonder if we did something different this situation might not of occurred. We would not have to take slaves from a world eater ship.” Silas nodded “Exactly!” Marthas looked over to Sebastian “you have nothing to say on the matter?” Sebastian simply shrugged and turned away as he sheathed his blade. Marthas sighed “I should of known that would be his response…”

Marthas heard footsteps closing in towards him he turned to see Adelram is now approaching them with Beleth and Jedrick. Marthas could also see that Adelram’s entrance with the destruction of the neverborn have broke the blood cultists will. The Astartes that still lived along with Naberius and Sitri went to work cleaning them up. Adelram folded his arms “the rebels are still crawling across the ship. Come with me we have work to do.” Silas stepped forward he accusingly said “so you have nothing to say!?” Adelram lowered his arms “say what?” Silas growled “this revolt!” Adelram shook his head “what is there to say? It happened we just have to deal with it.” Marthas could see Silas is now gripping his blade tightly, Marthas walked over “Si-” Silas pushed him back “No! I will say my piece now!”

Silas pointed his blade at Adelram “this situation is your fault! Look!” Silas gestured to all the dead Astartes with his blade “this will cripple us!” Silas lowered his blade “you were delivered news of a revolt and almost 24 hours after that report this happens!” Silas shot the body of a dead blood cultist “we should of went to the lower levels and purged it! Those that followed the god of blood should of been expunged!”

Marthas tried to interject “if we did that we would have no slaves!” Adelram nodded “exactly! Let’s say we did that? You would have no slaves to use!” Silas stomped the ground “yet we would have Astartes still alive to attack a planet with! To get more! Think of how many has possibly died in this revolt!? How would we attack a world now!?” Marthas was about to say something but he bit back his retort.

Marthas finally stared at all the Astartes corpses he thought about it for a moment and his hearts sank, all his work is gone. All the warriors he tried to make perfect were now in pieces. Hacked or blown apart by daemons or melted due to the blood cultists weaponry. What twisted Marthas’ heart even more that all of this devastation and lost work was caused by a group of slaves on the lower levels plotting. Marthas looked to Adelram he turned around and spoke firmly “we can argue later Silas. For now we deal with the revolt.” Silas gave a heavy sigh “look at you dodging the argument. You know you are wrong.”

Marthas could see Adelram clenching his hand tightly before he walked to the door, Beleth and Jedrick followed. Naberius and Sitri walked over, Naberius asked “what would you have us do?” Marthas frowned “would you even do as I say if I ordered you to?” Sitri smiled “maybe..” Marthas nodded “secure the te-” Sitri pouted “Boring! I want to go with you and maybe..” Sitri looked over to Beleth. Marthas narrowed his eyes “no. not now focus.” Sitri sighed “fine.” Naberius coughed “how about we hunt down the blood cultists on the upper levels?” Marthas looked to the doors “very well.” Naberius inclined his head “Sitri, let’s go.” Sitri yawned “alright.”

They both casually walked to the doors, Marthas looked to Silas and Sebastian “let’s go.” Sebastian nodded, Marthas still felt anger radiating from Silas. Marthas called out his name “Silas? Let’s go.” Silas grunted as he called out “Terminators! On me!” The remaining terminators moved to Silas’ position. Marthas noticed all the gashes and dried blood on their armour. Plus the fact some of their number were missing.

Marthas sighed “let us hope this revolt ends soon.”

Adelram waited outside with Beleth and Jedrick. He wondered why he let Silas speak to him like that. The audacity, it was like he wanted.. Adelram mouthed slowly “he wanted to lead..” Adelram shook his head “there is no way.” Beleth came forward “what he said is true, but don’t let it get to you.” Adelram laughed “so even you think the same? Things were going so well and then this happens… Athor and now the revolt.”

Jedrick shrugged “bad stuff happens.” Adelram flicked to Jedrick “bad stuff happens!? This is.. This is…” Jedrick tutted “this is what? It is what is just enjoy the experience of killing slaves and the minions of khorne.” Adelram narrowed his eyes “what is there to enjoy about this!?” Jedrick shook his head “you still have a lot to learn then.”

Adelram walked towards Jedrick he felt a surge of anger “what is there to learn!? What is there to gain from this!? I walked a battlefield with nothing but my robe and basic weapons! I fought to gain this warband back! Now just a small few decisions is causing everything to slip away!” Jedrick shrugged “what do you want me to say? To tell you what to do? To be at your shadow whenever you mess up?”

Adelram narrowed his eyes “we were both in each other shadows whenever we fell. What caused that to change?” Jedrick looked away for a moment and then back to him “yes that was in the past but things…. Now change. If you think this is the worst thing that can occur? You have seen nothing. You know of spawns yes? The monstrosities of flesh and meat?”

Adelram nodded slowly “yes I-” Jedrick interrupted him “that can be your fate now that you lead.” Adelram shook his head “I am not looking to ascend though.” Jedrick sighed “it does not matter! The dark princes eye is on you! If you bore her she will cast you aside without a thought Adelram! Every moment of joy and pain, every excess should be to please her!” Adelram turned away “I am not looking to please her. I want to please him.”

Beleth finally joined the conversation “do you think you are pleasing him now Adelram?” Adelram turned to Beleth “you may have met him Beleth but I am his son. I have seen far more of him than you have.” Beleth chuckled “you mean his back right? Or looking up to him? While he passed you by?” Adelram hearts twisted fury built up within his body he turned and strode towards Beleth he picked him up by his cloak, As Adelram picked him up Beleth dropped his crossbow. Adelram hissed “watch what you say….” Adelram gripped Beleth. Adelram could see rime started to build on his armour. Beleth continued “but it’s true, you only grabbed me because you don’t want to admit it outright. I am quite sure your father loves your master more than you.”

Adelram’s eyes shot wide as he slammed Beleth on the wall, he heard a bone break “shut up Beleth.” Beleth coughed harshly “indeed, he loves the eternal one more than you. He loves the soul-severed more than you.” Adelram’s eye twitched he wondered why is Beleth talking in such a fashion. Why he is picking at his scars? Adelram slammed Beleth on the wall again as he spoke softly “Beleth, please be quiet.”

Beleth gasped “I know I am a tool, a mere tool but I can tell you. He loves Noxus more than you.” Adelram threw Beleth to the ground Adelram heard another bone cracking Beleth winced “that actually hurt…” Beleth coughed “I also wanted to add...compared to your brothers. You are doing little compared to them.” Adelram ground his teeth as he picked up Beleth from the ground “you said he spoke about me!? Why are you being like this!?” Beleth lifted his bloodied hand lifting his up his helmet slightly revealing his mouth he smiled “who said it was anything good?”

Adelram raised his fist in anger as he moved to strike Beleth’s face, he felt his arm being held back. Adelram looked behind him to see Jedrick holding wrist back “Adelram, enough.” Adelram hissed “he is mine I can do as I wish with him!” Jedrick shook his head “if you do that the significance of you giving him that pin loses its meaning. What I heard was the truth and you still don’t like hearing it.”

Adelram spat in anger “Don’t take his side! Don’t you dare!” Jedrick chuckled “can’t handle a human telling you how it is? You are just like Silas you deem humans to be lesser creatures no? You are thinking what does a human know of the Phoenician? He only used him as a tool no more than that! I know you brother. I can see you would be more than happy to be used by him right? I guess you think it’s unfair? Why does he use Noxus and Beleth and not you?”

Adelram relaxed his fist as he heard Jedrick’s words, Jedrick slowly let go he looked to Beleth who was now wearing his helmet. Adelram simply dropped Beleth to the ground, Adelram sighed “let us focus on dealing with the revolt.” Jedrick shook his head “there you are doing it again.” The lights in the hall flickered as Jedrick spoke “I am doing nothing Jedrick! Now let’s focus on dealing with the minions of the blood god!” Said Adelram.

Adelram exclaimed those words the doors of the temple opened as everyone walked out they stared at Beleth and then at him. Marthas came forward “did something happen?” Beleth staggered to his feet “no nothing happened.” Marthas slowly nodded “I see.” Adelram watched Beleth pick up his crossbow and dust his cloak like nothing happened. It still surprises him how fast he actually heals. Adelram spoke calmly “as I said we focus on the minions of the blood god. We will sort everything out after they are dealt it with.” Everyone nodded.

Adelram tried to smile but he couldn't “Good. Now let’s begin purging the upper levels.”

Fatima held her welding gun while she walked to the bridge, she gathered Adam, Farah, Dayton, Nilsa, Leon and bought some of the blood cultists for support. Adam walked beside her “why are we going to the bridge? The upper levels are not secured yet.” Fatima grinned “a piece of the blood father is calling us there. When his warriors came to us I heard it.” Adam nodded slowly “you mean the daemons right?” Fatima inclined her head “yes, he sees our war and also desires the skulls of the degenerates.”

Fatima looked forward since the warriors of khorne came, she started to hear a voice. It beckoned her it told her to go to the bridge. It’s voice was firm and cold but she could feel the underlying fury behind it. As they approached the bridge she could see guards. It was only a token defence. They poured their fire down the hall killing them with ease. Fatima and those that followed her stepped over their corpses, upon getting near to the door she could see it was locked. Fatima got her wielding gun ready and began making a door.

Dayton walked over “so what of your brother?” Fatima sighed “what about him?” Dayton pressed “if he turns-” Fatima interjected “he is against us. If he gets in my way I will kill him.” Dayton nodded “good.” Fatima finished her work of making a new door she kicked in the door, the metal slab fell forward.

Everyone on the bridge jerked upon their entrance. Two rose from their seats moving hands to weapons. Fatima pulled her pistol from her belt and shot both of them. Fatima walked the bridge “this bridge belongs to the blood cult of khorne! Move and you will die!” Fatima watched those on the bridge whimper she spat on the ground “all of you are weak! Pitiful! Growing fat on perversion and excess!”

Adam looked around “so Fatima what's next?” Fatima blinked, the voice said to come to the bridge. Fatima was about to speak until a headache assaulted her mind “kill the slaves to the serpent. Pour their blood on the ground and call them. Call the leader here.”

Fatima shook her head she looked at the people on the bridge “we kill everyone here.” Adam nodded “right everyone open fire!” Fatima got her pistol ready and fired upon those on the bridge. Some tried to hide or get away but their bullets found them. As bodies lined the bridge Fatima turned to Nilsa. “I want an open channel to the whole ship.” Nilsa nodded “right” Nilsa walked over to the command throne and pressed a few buttons on the screen.

After a moment she called Fatima over, Fatima looked at the screen “so what do I do?” Nilsa pointed to a button “just hold down that button and speak.” Fatima nodded she thought of what she wanted to say for a moment when she was finally ready she pushed the button and spoke. “Degenerates! You thought you were superior! Greater! But this revolt proved your weakness! While you bay and scream for every delight! True warriors and those who desired veganace and freedom rose! I call upon the leader! A true leader would not deny any challenge! I am here! The one who stoked the fires of vengeance, the one who lit the fire in the hearts of free people! I dare you to come! I dare you to prove that you are not a coward!”

Fatima released her finger from the button Farah whistled “that was nice.” Leon shook his head “you are calling the leader here? He is a witch!” Dayton grabbed Leon’s shoulder “why are you worried? Witches are cowards and no warrior of khorne will step back from a battle.”

Fatima nodded “aye, the one who speaks to me told me to do this for a reason.” Adam called out and pointed at the ground “Fatima look!” Fatima turned to face where Adam is pointing the blood of those slain on the bridge gathered in the centre of the room. Everyone stepped back the blood turned into a whirlpool and from the centre a voice came a familiar voice “everything is a place. Khorne is pleased with the blood that has been spilled…”

Fatima walked forward “so you are the one who spoke in my mind?” A cold laugh came from the whirlpool “yes, now for the final battle. I require one your lives.” Leon blinked “what? We have to die?” The voice hissed “you fear death?” Fatima held up her hand to quieten Leon “no, if you require one of us I volunteer.” Farah shook her head “you are our leader! Don’t give your life so easily!” Dayton nodded in agreement “this is a holy warrior of khorne you speak to but you need to think. We have plenty of people to offer.” Fatima shook her head “I started this. I will end it. What you recommend is cowardly.”

Adam came forward and gripped Fatima’s shoulder “let me do it, for my sister’s sake. I have a bone to pick with the Astartes on this ship.” Fatima looked to Adam “N-” Adam smiled as he pushed Fatima aside, she fell to the ground. “I know you, hence why I am taking the choice away from you. I know if we win you will lead us and I can see us becoming great. Perhaps feared by those who considered us lesser beings...” Fatima looked to Adam “Don’t do it st-” Adam smiled as he jumped into the whirlpool of blood. Fatima shook her head “damn it! Damn it! Why did he do that!”

The whirlpool slowly vanished as the blood returned to normal, Fatima got to her feet “what happened?” Nilsa came forward “I don’t know but stay back we don’t know what will happen.” Everyone watched the pool of blood for several seconds after a moment of waiting a hand shot up.

It grasped the floor like it was pulling itself up, Fatima smiled “greetings warriors of khorne.” As the daemon pulled itself fully from the pool of blood it stood over Fatima. Compared to the other daemons she has seen this one was a head taller and wore armour. The daemon grinned “greetings fellow warrior. I am Belzar you payed the tithe of blood so my cohort has come.”

Fatima nodded the daemon oddly sounded like Adam but his voice was mixed with the one that she heard in her mind “What of Adam, where is he?” Belzar pointed to his chest “here, his fury, his rage and anger. So pure… Now it is time for the final battle!” The daemon gripped his blade in both hands and stabbed down into the blood, Fatima watched more daemons appear they snapped and snarled at each other as they waved their blades about. Even large red dogs appeared they barked and sniffed the air.

Belzar cried out his voice reverberating in the room “my cohort to me! The final battle is upon us!”

Adelram ran towards the bridge he heard the announcement and this would be the chance to cut the head from the snake. This would be a simple journey but the issue is that hosts of daemons now crawled the halls of the ship and if he sent his mind forward he could sense something powerful the possible anchor that is holding the daemon forces to this plain.

Adelram looked to Jedrick “we are close to the final battle.” Jedrick nodded “indeed we are! I am quite excited actually!” Adelram bought his head to Beleth who ran in silence “you are aware his sister will be punished?” Beleth chuckled “of course I don’t expect anything less.” Adelram faced forward “good.”

Silas called from the back “neverborn incoming!” A stream of neverborn leaped on the terminators holding them down Silas shouted “Keep going! We hold them here!” Marthas turned to Sebastian “help them. I don’t want Silas dying.” Sebastian nodded and splintered from the group heading back to help Silas. Marthas panting said “what now?” Adelram continued to face forward “our objective hasn’t changed we are cutting the head from the snake. The focal point is on the bridge. I suspect the leader of the khornate cohort seeks my head hence the announcement.”

Adelram nodded “right when we enter bridge I suspect flesh hounds will be there. Target them first they stifle my powers.” Everyone inclined their heads in acknowledgement. They ran for a few more minutes and soon they came upon the bridge, the door was cut open. As they entered Adelram felt a headache he frowned as he saw the leaders of the revolt at the back with their guns ready and in the front were the neverborn.

Adelram could see in the middle was a bloodletter who was taller than the rest it wore armour along with wielding a mighty blade that burned with eldritch fire. The bloodletter grinned “we meet again… I am Belzar, Herald of Khorne!” Adelram drew his blade “I don’t care what your name is.” Adelram eyed the flesh hounds there were 4 that surrounded Belzar along with some bloodletters “everyone you know what to do. We take the ship back at the end of this battle!” said Adelram.

Adelram charged with Jedrick, Marthas and Beleth. Belzar roared as he pointed his blade “take their skulls for khorne!” Belzar charged at Adelram bullets began to fly on the bridge Balzar swept his blade in an arc, Adelram blocked the blow. From the corner of his eye he saw a flesh hound moving to charge it leaped at Adelram until it dropped mid air and crashed to the ground. A crossbow bolt is lodged in it’s head.

Adelram smirked “one down.” Belzar redoubled his attacks upon seeing the dead flesh hound “you seek to fight like a coward!” Adelram parried away his strike “no daemon I am just being smart.” Marthas called out “another is dead!” Adelram chuckled “2 left Belzar.” As Adelram crossed blades with Belzar he could see that surprisingly that Belzar considered his attacks he actually had technique.

Adelram kept up his guard waiting for the right moment, that moment when all the flesh hounds are dead. A human ran forward with a welding gun. Adelram heard a whistle pass his ear as a bolt crashed into the head of the human. Adelram felt odd when that happened he trusted Beleth, he trusted him to cover his back. Thinking on it he never fought together with Beleth as an equal. Adelram shook his head since part of him deep down he could not think that that he had to force that thought away. Jedrick's words from before bounced in his mind it caused his hearts to twist in the heat of battle. Adelram shook his head again he had to focus on the battle for now.

Adelram could hear the snarls and screams of bloodletters. Adelram grinned “not so easy to take my skull is it Belzar?” Belzar snarled “even if I don’t take your head. Your warband is crippled, broken. What can you attack if you have no army?” Adelram narrowed his eyes as he pushed back his strike “what that tells me is that you see your victory slipping away.” Adelram heard Jedrick shout out “the third is down one more!”

Belzar raged “you will die!” Adelram from the corner of his eye saw a flesh hound charging from the side. Arming for his leg, Adelram parried Belzar’s strike and turned to stab the approaching flesh hound through the head. Adelram laughed “there goes the last one!”

Adelram’s eyes blazed with power, he removed his combat knife from his belt, small pink wisps trailed on his armour. Adelram felt his nerves go on fire, he could hear every drop of blood, every scream and bullet as it crashed against ceramite. Belzar charged and attacked Adelram, he parried the strike with his dagger and like lightning his blade shot out as he impaled his blade through Belzar’s neck.

Belzar sagged on the blade, Adelram removed it and chopped off his head. Belzar’s body fell to the ground. Adelram looked around the daemons screamed in agony as their bodies began to disintegrate. Adelram looked to the corpse of Belzar it’s red skin melted away leaving a headless human. The humans arms is covered in scars.

Finally Adelram bought his gaze to the humans that lived the rebels, he saw the woman with the rune of khorne on her head. Adelram knew that must be Salvador’s sister he remembered seeing her with him when the slaves were brought to the ship. Adelram pointed his blade at them “on your knees slaves.” The woman roared “never! I will never bow to you!” Adelram frowned he released his power he focused on the humans before him they struggled but slowly they dropped to their knees.

Adelram sheathed his blade as they struggled to rise before him “all of you cost me so much…. If you think you will die quickly you are mistaken!” The woman laughed “It does not matter if you stopped me! I know if you move to torture me my brother will see you for what you are!” Beleth came forward “Fatima, you tried to push your brother into something he was not. He is happy here and you can’t accept that. Khorne turned you into a vehicle of hatred and war. He did not care for your revolt or the slaves need for freedom. All he wanted is war and blood. I hazard a guess if the neverborn killed Adelram it would kill everyone else on the ship.”

Fatima scowled “you lie! That’s what you snakes do! You lie! Even now!” Adelram grasped Beleth’s shoulder “she will not listen.” Beleth looked up “like someone else I know?” Adelram clutched Beleth’s shoulder tightly he did not even flinch “not now Beleth.” Beleth nodded “right, so what are you planning to do with them?” Jedrick and Marthas came forward. Marthas stomped to Fatima it was odd to Adelram to see Marthas so upset he pointed his weapon at Fatima “so this is the one who ruined my work? Majority of them are dead because of one foolish human!?”

Jedrick grasped Marthas pauldron “Adelram will punish them adequately don’t worry.” Marthas shook off Jedrick’s hand “they don’t understand the gravity of what they did! The training I put into them! The wisdom lost!” Adelram shouted “enough! Marthas! As Jedrick said I will punish them and don’t worry. I have something in mind.” Marthas lowered his weapon as he calmed down “very well.” Marthas turned to walk away “I am going to check on Silas and Sebastian.” Marthas left the room, Beleth looked up to him “Adelram what are you planning to do?” Adelram removed his helmet he smiled at Beleth “you will see…”

Salvador rubbed his eyes, he yawned he looked up to see Beleth sitting at his desk “Beleth what are you doing?” Beleth got up and faced him, Beleth smiled “I have come to get you.” Salvador scratched his head “get me for what?” Beleth folded his arms “Adelram wants to see you.” Upon hearing his name Salvador shot out of the bed “what for?” Beleth nodded “the revolt is over and he wishes to speak with you.” Salvador titled his head to one side “wait, the revolt happened? I slept through it?” Beleth inclined his head “yes. I barred and warded the room so you were safe.”

Beleth moved to the door “now come with me.” Beleth opened the door of his room and stepped out, Salvador followed. As Salvador entered the hall the smell of blood smashed into his nose it almost made him noxious he almost heaved. Salvador stammered “w-what happened?” Salvador could see serf’s pulling away corpses and others at work cleaning up the blood. Beleth flatly said “the rebellion took many lives. The warband is crippled at the moment.” Salvador’s eyes went wide “what? It was that bad?” Beleth nodded “yes, yes it was. Right now the ring leaders have been captured.”

Salvador almost felt happy “so my sister is alive? Is she okay?” Beleth did not answer his question. He spoke after a moment “Salvador you asked me if those stories with the emperor’s children are true? Correct?” Salvador nodded “yes. Now I am not exactly sure anymore.” Beleth sighed “you will see a story soon.” Salvador gulped as they made their way to Adelram’s chambers seeing more of the dead bodies he asked “what of Luke and Abraham?”

Beleth crossed his arms “Luke is alive, Abraham is dead he was killed by the rebels.” Salvador’s heart sank, he was happy that Luke is alive but hearing that Abraham is dead caused his heart to twist. Salvador shook his head “why did my sister do this Beleth? Why?” Beleth stopped and turned to Salvador “its simple, she is a servant of the blood god. Honestly she was far too good hence why she was marked. She would have never fit into the ship. So she tried to shift it to the blood god, she used freedom as an excuse.” Beleth continued walking, Salvador walked with him.

Salvador rubbed his arm he asked again as they finally reached Adelram’s chamber doors “Beleth, please tell me is my sister alive?” Beleth turned to Salvador “yes she is alive.” Beleth faced the doors and pushed them open, As the doors slid open Salvador did not feel happy hearing news what he felt is fear.

Salvador stepped into Adelram’s chambers with Beleth he saw Adelram standing in the middle of the room next to a wheel-able tray. The room was empty, they were no chained people until he looked to the left wall. He saw 5 chained people in rags, three of them he recognised. Beleth walked over “I bought him.” Adelram smiled at Salvador “good you are here!” Salvador slowly walked towards Adelram “yes I am here my lord.” Fatima scoffed “you call the one who has chained me. Tortured people my lord….” Salvador cast his eyes down he could not even look at her. Dayton roared “see he stands with the cowards!” Farah sneered “you are a snake like the rest of them!” Hearing their words his eyes began to water.

Adelram walked over and lifted his chin “don’t cry, you did nothing wrong.” Salvador sniffed “what? I..” Adelram shook his head “think of the life you lived on the world eater ship. Every dark and horrible moment. How does it compare being here? Were you happy?” Salvador’s mouth quivered looking at Adelram he could not help but trust him he nodded slowly “I am happy here..”

Adelram smiled “right, your own family, your own flesh and blood tried to destroy your happiness. She killed my brothers, she killed your friend with her actions and such actions have consequences. You understand that? Don’t you Salvador?” Salvador nodded slowly, Adelram continued “if you agreed with your sister, you would not tell Beleth of your concerns correct?” Salvador did not know what was happening as Adelram spoke to him he nodded slowly agreeing with him “y-yes” Salvador stammered. Adelram removed his hand “that is good. come over.” Adelram walked to the tray, Salvador followed, he could see Beleth folding his arms. He did not utter a word. As Salvador reached the tray he saw several torture tools. Salvador’s mouth went dry, Adelram looked to the tools and back to him “Salvador you are going to help me punish the ring leaders of the rebellion.”

Salvador’s eyes went wide “I-I c-can’t!” Adelram frowned “why can’t you? Why can’t you harm the people who sought to take away your happiness? They sought to kill me and Beleth. Along with Camila. Would you be happy with that?” Salvador began to cry again “N-No! B-But!” Beleth interjected “Fatima would of killed you if you came across her on the ship Salvador.” Salvador took a step back from the tray “s-she wouldn’t do that! She wouldn't!” Salvador looked to Fatima “there must be some mistake! Fatima it’s not true is it?” Fatima stared at him she looked away, all she gave him was silence. To Salvador’s shook, Adelram picked up a whip from the tray and walked over. Adelram tapped it in his hand “we will be using this a Cat o' nine tails. I think this tool will suffice.”

Adelram stopped next to Salvador and grasped his shoulder “Salvador, do you want to stay here?” Salvador looked down “I-I..” Adelram shook his head “don’t worry I understand you never did this before.” Adelram forced the cat o' nine tails into his hand. Adelram held his hand over his “Salvador don’t worry I will help you. We will start with the man on the far left.” Adelram walked Salvador over to the man, he weeped “I should've never got involved. I should've never got involved…”

Adelram raised his arm “like this Salvador.” Adelram forced his arm down slamming the cat o' nine tails upon the man. Blood splashed across Salvador’s face. Salvador panted “w-why?” Adelram gave a soft smile “this is partly a reward to you. After all you did report the rebellion with Beleth. Trust me by the end you will enjoy what you are doing to those who sought to destroy your happiness.” Adelram bought his hand up again and slammed it down upon the man more blood splashed across his face. Salvador began to hyperventilate he should smell blood but the old smell of the ship returned to his nostrils for some reason. The sweet comforting smell.

The man before him sagged to one side crying “p-please stop! It hurts! It hurts!” Salvador shook his head he tried to shut his eyes. Adelram hissed “open your eyes Salvador!” Salvador cried “I-I can’t!” Adelram then heard Adelram whisper in his ear “open your eyes Salvador. Salvador’s eyes shot open for some reason, Adelram raised his arm and bought it down again on the man this time flesh began tearing away. Adelram repeated the action again and again until finally the man lay in a pool of blood. Adelram gave Salvador a gentle smile, even if his face bore a small amount of blood Salvador slowly started to feel at ease. “Now, was that hard Salvador? Time for the next one.”

Adelram moved Salvador over to a woman, who spat at Adelram “you don’t remember when you took me! You ate my family!” Salvador watched Adelram frown as the spittle went down his breastplate he smiled again as he looked to Salvador “now Salvador, we will do this one a tad more slowly.” As Adelram moved his arm Salvador could tell there was less force, the same occurred, Salvador was drenched in blood as the barbed cat o' nine tails removed flesh. Salvador thought he would feel sick but no bile lined his throat, he felt comforted each time Adelram moved the whip.

When the woman finally died Adelram, removed his hand and pulled out a piece of cloth from his belt. Salvador felt the blood lining his face, it was oddly warm. Adelram placed the cloth near his face Salvador instinctively moved back, Adelram grinned “relax I am cleaning your face.” Adelram gently rubbed his face with the cloth clearing away the blood “it would not be good if you got blood in your eye.”

Adelram dropped the cloth on the ground, “Now for the next three? you will do yourself.” Salvador looked at the cat o' nine tails “w-what?” Adelram nodded “as I said you will do the next three yourself.” Adelram pointed at Dayton, Salvador face Dayton he scowled at him “look at you. Not even once you told him to stop. If I was unbound I would kill you.”

Salvador shook his head “I-I didn’t do anything wrong..” Dayton chuckled “cowards like to deny in such a way right? Me and Farah beat you up for a reason. Why can't you be like your sister? She understands the blood cult it got to the point she even allowed it to happen.” Salvador blinked he looked at Fatima and then back to Dayton “that’s not true is it? Fatima! It’s not true right!? You did not allow it to happen right? Every time they saw me they bruised my eye! Every time they passed me by they kicked me! Punched me! Tell me Fatima It’s a lie right!?” Salvador then looked at Fatima she held his gaze for a moment and looked away in silence.

Salvador cried her silence said everything, Salvador looked at Dayton grinning. Salvador remembered every painful moment he bought the whip up and then down with all his might. The whip cracked against Dayton’s face. Dayton gasped and yelped in pain. Salvador took in several breath’s doing that to Dayton felt good. Salvador whipped Dayton again and again blood splashed across his clothes and face until Dayton lied in a pool of blood flinching.

Salvador moved to Farah next she gave a sad smile “look at you, you think you are strong. All you are doing now is giving into weakness.” Salvador cracked the whip across Farah’s face each movement of the whip made it more easy. He did not need to force it he enjoyed bringing suffering to Dayton and now Farah. They made him suffer, they made living on the world eater ship hell and his sister was a part of it.

Salvador bought the whip down one more time on Farah the whip pulled away a large chunk of flesh. Farah screamed, Salvador kept whipping Farah even though she screamed. Dayton and Farah always ignored his and right now deep down Salvador finds he is starting to enjoy hearing her voice yelping in pain. Salvador stopped he panted to see Farah is now un-moving apart from a slight twitch. Adelram walked over, Salvador looked up “d-did I do something wrong?” Adelram shook his head “no, it was your right they caused you to suffer so you delivered it back to them. Did you enjoy it?” Salvador looked at the whip “I-I did.”

Adelram stroked his head “good, hold on that I am sure you will sleep better at night.” Adelram looked to Fatima “now the instigator, the one who wanted to destroy your happiness. Beleth will help with this one.” Beleth wheeled over the tray “Now Salvador pick.” Salvador picked up a strange wooden pole with two electric nobs at the end. Adelram smiled “cattle prod, good choice. Now go and punish your sister.”

Salvador looked to his sister he walked over slowly, tears rolled down his cheeks “it’s not true right? They must be lying right?” Fatima looked up to him she laughed “It’s true! I wanted you to be strong! I wanted you to be with me!” Salvador shook his head “but I hated them. I hated the blood cult. I hated what they did to you!” Fatima chuckled “they made me strong Salvador. Still watching you kill those who sought freedom from the degenerates showed me you are just like the rest of them. I know as I die that my brother is now dead.”

Fatima shook her head “I wonder why I tried to convince you? I should of killed you! My true brother gave his life to the cause! For the chance to kill that monster you call lord!” Salvador felt his love for his sister slowly dying crumbling, Salvador edged the cattle prod forward and pressed the button on the handle. Fatima jerked and screamed as her flesh burned, Salvador removed the prod and did it again each time as her flesh cooked instead of smelling the burning of meat a sweet aroma filled his nose. Salvador repeated the action again and again until Adelram shouted “stop Salvador!” Salvador jerked to attention the hand wielding the prod was shaking he slowly removed it from Fatima’s body.

Beleth walked over to Fatima his hand hovered over her, the burnt skin slid off and her wounds began to heal her eyes flicked open. She got to her knees “what? The pain is gone? What is going on? She looked around frantically what is going on!?” Adelram beckoned Salvador over “come here.” Salvador staggered forward Adelram pointed at the tray “pick another tool.” Salvador looked at the tray and picked up a strange ripping tool it bore four claws. Adelram nodded “good choice that tears away breast tissue. Now go use it on your sister.” Salvador slowly nodded, Fatima shook her head “Salvador! Think of what you are doing! Stop and think!”

Salvador heard her voice but he no longer cared, she caused him misery, encouraged it and as Adelram said she tried to ruin his happiness here. Salvador snapped the claws of the weapon in his hand. In his heart he felt someone is guiding him it comforted him telling him he is doing the right thing. The person in front of him is not his sister so it’s okay to enjoy it. The one guiding him, she sang to him softly.

Adelram called out to Beleth “Beleth hold her while Salvador does his work!” Beleth nodded “very well.” Beleth held Fatima in place, Salvador stopped before Fatima, he opened the jaws of the weapon and placed it upon her chest the claws dug in. Salvador oddly felt hot he giggled “this, this is kinda fun.” Adelram walked over smiling “that’s it! Enjoy it Salvador!” Salvador nodded as he pulled back on the tool tearing away a piece of flesh. Fatima screamed, Salvador threw the meat to the side and readied the tool again.

Salvador could see fear in her eyes, complete and utter fear.

Salvador now stared at the woman in front of him she was an unrecognisable piece of meat his clothes and every inch of his body was covered in blood. Salvador looked to Adelram “Is that it?” Adelram nodded smiling “that is it. Your new life has truly begun. Beleth go take Salvador back to his room.” Beleth nodded, Beleth escorted Salvador to the door. Salvador stared at the woman and then to Beleth before leaving “when can we do that again?” Beleth shook his head “your sister’s rebellion got majority of the slaves killed Salvador.”

Salvador titled his head to one side in confusion “sister what are you talking about Beleth?” Beleth furrowed his brow “the sister you just punished.” Salvador shook his head “n-no, no, I am quite sure I had no sister. I mean I only have a brother. You are my brother right? Right? I don’t recall having a sister. The woman said in my heart that you are my brother. She is not lying right!? I mean why would she!? She is so nice...” Salvador could see Beleth looking away for a moment and then back to him he smiled “yes, Salvador I am indeed your brother.”

Salvador smiled back “oh good, the woman did not lie. So why are you taking me to my room?” Beleth shook his head he gave a sad smile “to clean you up dummy.” Salvador sniffed him himself he did not see what the problem was “fine if you say so.”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/08 01:49:43


Post by: shinros


So...

Spoiler:
Salvador officially joined the family! *claps* On Noxus a mate of mine asked how does my Helbrute in the story handle the crazed rule? Yeah so he can randomly fall asleep and run off to do whatever. Well I hope people enjoyed this plot section. This is just setting stuff up! More horrible stuff is on it's way!


lliu wrote:
Well this is about to get interesting. Look forward for what's to come!


Forgot to respond to this, I hope you like the development! Well I just kinda posted it but hey.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/10 18:39:29


Post by: lliu


I swear, there’s more character development here than in movies or even books that are “good”.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/10 19:20:03


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
I swear, there’s more character development here than in movies or even books that are “good”.


Oh really!? Thanks that means a lot to me. You see I want people to get invested in characters their struggles and perils.

With slaanesh I wanted to explore how far characters go to get what they want. The pits they will jump or fall into to get there. Your words mean alot thank you.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/11 01:51:07


Post by: Dayknight



Another great book! Really has me on the edge of my seat so far! Your writing just gets better and better.


Btw when I complained about spoilers last time I thought you were gonna spoil stuff you hadn't wrote yet! You don't have to spoiler tag after you write the chapter! sorry for confusing you.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/11 02:18:46


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:

Another great book! Really has me on the edge of my seat so far! Your writing just gets better and better.


Btw when I complained about spoilers last time I thought you were gonna spoil stuff you hadn't wrote yet! You don't have to spoiler tag after you write the chapter! sorry for confusing you.


Thanks! dear god when I look back on my first story I just want to cry. Still it's gotten to the point after work I just sit on my computer and type away. All my mates were pretty supportive that all it will take is practice I am really happy both of you are enjoying the story.

Also it's not the end of the story! It's just one part is sort of done to set them on the way to the real adventure!

On the tags? I see. D: You know as the guy writing it I try to avoid letting things slip but I might just keep tagging it just in case.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/11 04:03:33


Post by: Dayknight


Haha yea I know the third book isn't done! Just liking what I'm reading so far. literally cam back before bed to see if you wrote another chapter. Damn you got me hooked again!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/14 04:14:31


Post by: shinros


Chapter 8

Adelram stared at his now empty chamber, he sat in silence. Complete and utter silence the sounds of slaves no longer ring in the chamber, no cries, no weeping and no begging for freedom. He hated it, he despised the situation he was now in. Bringing his eyes over each empty spot, all that is left is stained blood and chains hanging from the wall. Adelram ground his teeth “all of because of slaves… pitiful slaves who.. Who..” he tried to justify for it. There is no other reason than the fact they captured world eater slaves. Adelram smiled “yes, if we took them from any other ship this would not have happened…” Adelram creased his brow in frustration upon uttering those words, “no… no it’s a excuse…” he stared at the wall where he chained the ring leaders they have been cleaned up but for some reason staring in that direction still angered him. They have been punished but there is more he could of done. Perhaps he should of tormented their souls? Tearing them apart piece by piece and feeding it to a neverborn.

Adelram sighed “what’s done is done.” He heard his door opening slowly he looked up to see it’s Beleth. He entered his now silent chamber “What is it Beleth?” Beleth smiled “do you want to talk?” Adelram raised his eyebrow “about what? What is there to talk about?” Beleth walked to the chair next to him he sat down leaning back “anything, how do you feel? What do you want to do?”

Adelram ran his hand through his hair, he felt weary, tired and annoyed he thought of what to say Beleth he is not here to annoy him. It’s clear he is concerned, Adelram sighed “so how is Salvador?” Beleth nodded “well, now he thinks I am his brother. You were quite heavy handed Adelram.” Adelram thought on what he made Salvador do, it was necessary he had to verify if Salvador was also touched by the blood god considering his mutation. More than anything it was a test of his loyalty to him. “you of all people knew it was necessary. I assume you bought him to report the rebellion to secure his life.”

Beleth chuckled “you figured it out, I knew it was necessary I merely wish you were like that with everyone to be honest.” Adelram clutched the arms of his chair “are you here to talk or vex me Beleth?” Beleth sat up “both, you should feel angry because you know you could of done something to prevent it.” Adelram slammed the arm of his chair causing a large dent in the gold chair arm “What could I have done!? You expect me to spend my time with each and every pitiful slave!?” He rose from the chair he gestured to all the empty spaces “why waste time on people I am going to use and kill!? What’s the point!?”

Beleth sat upright in the chair he folded his arms “they should view you as a demi-god, they should love you. Not fear you. The whole warp is open to you and you used to be an apothecary you have tools there but you are not using them properly.” Adelram clenched his hands “why am I even listening to you? You are also a slave!” Beleth shook his head laughing slightly he played with the pin in his hand “so you gave me this just to make yourself feel better? You view me as a mere slave when we are we talking so casually? If it was any other human you would kill them.”
Adelram narrowed his eyes he strode over to Beleth his eyes glowed with eldritch power “that can easily change Beleth…” Beleth shrugged “as I said in the church you can do what you want. Compared to him you hit like a child.” The power drained from Adelram’s eyes he tried to hold to Marthas words that this is a fresh start. Such thinking is crumbling at the very second “sometimes, I wonder what my father did to you. You… are not him.”

Beleth frowned “he died, he gave everything so you can stand here. Right now.” Adelram wiped his hand down his face “what do you mean? I read your journal to you. You know your past. Your history. What we did, what you thought of me!” Beleth held his frown “well as I said he is dead. Gone, torn away by the daemons that served your father. With that they also took my vision. What you want won’t come back.”

Beleth gestured to the piano “so tell me Adelram, why do you play the piano? Do you enjoy it?” Adelram looked at the piano and then back to Beleth “Don’t change the subject…” Beleth titled his head, he sighed and rose from the chair and stood before him “fine, what’s the problem? Why are you so upset with me?” he opened up his hands “what do you hate about me?” He stared up at him with his milky white eyes “do you hate looking at me?” Adelram stared at his eyes, his hearts twist he wondered in pain or anguish his very state is a edifice of his failures. Every inch of his body, even looking at him failure is etched into his mind. Beleth held his empty gaze at him expecting an answer. Adelram turned away “stop it.” Beleth chuckled “do you want me to say it?” Adelram shouted “shut up Asriel!” Saying his old name again, letting it pass his lips his hearts uncoiled slightly.

Adelram began panting, he felt his emotions boiling up he let it loose what he feels about the situation what he truly feels if he wants to know so much “Fine! You want to know!? I hate everything about you! Starting at you! Watching you walk eyes cast down! Every time I hear your new name it’s like something at the back of my mind is pricking! stabbing! Sometimes I wonder, perhaps? Perhaps I could fix him? Then failure won’t grasp my mind anymore.” he looked to his hands “I recall the you that was so respectful. Back then I press you to call me by my name and you slink back to referring to me formally. Even in your own head I assumed you barely referred me to by name.”

Adelram looked over to the piano “you know? I hate playing the Piano! I forced myself to eat the humans! I spent hours on painting I never could get into it! Yes at times I enjoy listening to Camilla play or even Salvador but that’s all it is. That is all it ever is!” Adelram gave a hoarse laugh “always the odd one out, always trying to fit other people’s expectations! Always! With all my might I try again and again and it never works out! The old you never expected anything. Augustus after Horus’ war did not expect anything from me and even Jedrick did not expect anything!” Adelram shut his eyes and clutched his hands “Beleth, don’t be like the rest on them. Please don’t…” Adelram said his name out loud. Again his hearts began twisting. Beleth laughed “finally progress…” Adelram’s eyes flicked open he went over to his chair, he grabbed it and threw it across the room. The large chair smashed into splinters, Adelram ran his hand through his mane of hair he steadied his breathing hearing him say those words. He finally knew what to do “right. I see.”

Adelram turned to face Beleth who is now raising his eyebrow “I see what?” Adelram walked over and grasped his shoulders “I will fix you.” Beleth’s mouth fell agape “w-what? What are you talking about? I am not broken!? There is nothing to fix!” Adelram squeezed slightly “when I gave you that pin, when I acknowledged some part of your sacrifices you cried. He still exists. You say he is dead and gone. I don’t think so.” Beleth turned his head away “n-no-” Adelram hissed “Silence!” Beleth clamped his mouth shut “Asriel, I let you speak. Again and again. This very conversation you made me realise something. I will figure something out just be patient please.”

Adelram moved his hands away from… his servant. His servant Asriel “first, we solve the situation with the warband. Then I will find a way to fix you.” Asriel’s eyes went wide he ground his teeth and pointed “Don’t you dare! I know what you are doing! You can’t do that! I am the one who is meant to save you! I am the one who should sacrifice! It’s not fair! You can’t do that now!”

Adelram watched Asriel’s tantrum saying his name again in his mind put him at ease as he stared at him he watched his face change to a fixature of horror “that’s not my name. I w-” Adelram narrowed his eyes “you won’t what? You won’t you let me do what Asriel? I am the lord of this warband. I can do what I want when I decide something it shall be done.” his eyes began to glow with a soft purple light “if anyone has a problem with what I do… then I will end them.” Asriel slunk back like a beaten creature “this isn’t right… this is not what he wants…” Adelram laughed “he? You refer to my father? How would I know what he wants if he never wants to talk to me? Plus you said he had nothing good to say about me… so what do I have to lose?” Asriel’s face became stuck in a fixature of confusion and horror he darted to the door without saying another word.

Adelram let Asriel leave, first he had to fix the situation with the warband. Then he will handle returning Asriel to normal. Adelram went to his pouch he pulled out Eidolon’s letter “no regrets… no more...”

Silas walked the halls of the upper levels, after the battle was over he checked upon his slaves and unlike many on the ship they are loyal. They know their place, they look to him as a pinnacle they can’t reach as it should be. Silas made a corner and in front of him stood two robed figures he scowled “you two, what do you want? Go bother Marthas.”

Naberius chuckled “oh dear don’t you want to know why we are here?” Sitri licked her lips “even if he is calling?” Silas raised his eyebrow “he? Who are you referring to?” Naberius shook his head “come now, think for a moment. What person do you prize above all else?” Silas’ eyes went wide “what!? You don’t mean!? How!?” Sitri grinned “why don’t you come with us?” Silas narrowed his eyes his father has used humans before and considering how both of them came to the warband is something he still found suspicious.

Silas mumbled “very well.” he then pointed his twin linked bolter at them “if this is a waste of my time..” Naberius grinned “It’s not trust me.” Silas nodded and lowered his weapon, he followed both of them. Walking the corridors, Naberius raised his hand and began weaving his sorcery. Silas furrowed his brow “what are you doing?” Sitri turned her head back grinning “we hid our meeting spot! Can’t let anyone wander into it.” Silas shook his head “I assume Adelram does not know about this? Sitri stuck her tongue out to him “who cares what he thinks? His will matters the most!”
Silas bought his finger close to the trigger of his gun at that gesture if it was anyone else he would of blown them apart. Even so he could not help but agree somewhat. If they are taking him to who he is thinking of then this must be important.

Naberius lowered his hands upon reaching a set of double doors. Naberius spoke in almost a hushed tone “gar’ill’mavu’iz!” The door clicked open, as the double doors opened it released a bellow of pink mist. Naberius “after you… my lord.” Silas grunted, he walked into the room it is a plain circular room and the only thing of note were the walls. Covering every inch were carved runes that exuded the pink mist. For some reason the mist somehow got through the filtration of his helmet. His eyes dilated Silas gasped slightly as his body seized up slightly. He shook his head “what is going on?”

Naberius and Sitri entered the room the doors closed behind them Naberius gestured to the runes “we have to create the right space to even talk to the the great one. Since he is so magnificent and powerful.” Naberius turned to Sitri “let us the begin.” Silas watched Naberius walk to left end of the circular room and Sitri to the far right. They began chanting, the words that spilled from their lips caused Silas’s skin to crawl. The runes began to glow with a raging pink light, from each rune a trail of fire moved to the centre of the room gathering into a giant orb of pink fire. Naberius and Sitri got to their knees “master.” they intoned. Silas’ mouth was dry “father?” Silas heard his voice, smooth as slik mixed with the wailing and cries of souls “my son…” Silas instantly dropped to his knee “My Lord.”

Silas cast his head downwards, he has no right to stare a perfection, even a fraction of it. Fulgrim’s voice entered his mind “you have grown so much, but you haven’t been provided the opportunity. A opportunity that is soon coming.” Silas’ mind raced of what he meant by opportunity. His father gave a chuckle “you know what you want. You want to lead no?” Silas blinked “yes.. He has..” Fulgrim finished his sentence “ruined you? You feel you could be better… more perfect but his mistakes is ruining you..” Silas licked his lips he wondered how he will take control, head still cast low he said “father, when will I have to kill him? He still has supporters…” Silas for some reason could tell Fulgrim is now smiling at least he thought so “you will have to do nothing. His death will come naturally. When the minions of the blood god entered your ship that showed me he is no longer worth preserving.”

Silas felt excited his hearts were jumping but he had to control himself, the unexpected can happen he asked “what of those two? Noxus and that… human.” Fulgrim spoke approvingly “good you see all paths and it’s right of you to ask. I spoke to Noxus while he slept during the attack and Beleth? Adelram has just rejected my gift. He spat in my face… that cannot be forgiven.” Silas felt the heat from the ball of fire increasing, his father spoke softly but he felt his anger his fury. The temperature in his power armour is rapidly increasing “Adelram wants so much from me, changing his human in a sense was my acknowledgement. Since he has rejected that… I will take it away. He will slowly crumble and die.” Silas bowed his head lower “I thank you for blessing me with your wisdom father.” the flames died down, Silas began to feel cool as the temperature levels in his armour dropped. “you should be thankful. Be patient my son your time will come, out of the dregs on the ship you are the one seeking the most elusive thing… perfection…” The flames evaporated. Leaving Silas in the dark room.

Silas rose he laughed “see! I am the perfect one!” Silas swept his eyes over the kneeling Sitri and Naberius “I assume you two serve me?” Naberius and Sitri rose. Sitri bowed “Indeed my lord. The great one supports your rule so shall we.” Silas could see that for once she is not speaking in a mocking manner. There was clear respect in her voice. Naberius smiled he inclined his head “as Sitri said we are yours.” Silas nodded “so what of Marthas then?” Naberius shrugged “we are his helpers, he of all people understood that we did not serve him.” Upon hearing Naberius and Stri's declaration of fealty, Silas stared up to the location where a fraction of his father addressed him “I need to be patient… then I will lead.”

Jedrick sat within his abode which is now completely empty, the ones that followed him took the brunt of the attack. Staring at the empty space did not bother him in the slightest everyone died it doesn't matter who killed them what is important is whether they enjoyed it. Since if they are within the halls being judged by the dark prince he will see whether they were meek or found joy in their final moments. Jedrick breathed in and then out “it’s coming… it’s close now.” Jedrick rose from his chair the abyss within his body started to subsided he began laughing maniacally “it’s coming! Please hurry!” He laughed his voice rebounding within the empty halls. The abyss came crashing back as the doors opened he scowled upon seeing the person entering “Sebastian… what the hell are you doing here?”

Sebastian walked in each step measured and controlled he grinned “silence…. I can hear them. Ahhh” Sebastian shook his head and bought his eyes to him grinning. Jedrick folded his arms “I asked you a question..” Sebastian ignored him as he walked towards him his face holding that mocking grin. Whether his attitude matched his facial expression is another matter altogether. Sebastian inclined his head “I was asked to come here.” Jedrick raised his eyebrow it’s clear Marthas would not bother to check up on him he is far more concerned on trying to rebuild his temple. Marthas narrowed his eyes “who asked you to come here?” Jedrick heard his doors opening again his next visitor surprised him “Marius?”

Marius walked towards him each motion is smooth and his power armour purred at each step “greetings..” Jedrick sighed “you are actually speaking normally so this must be important…” Marius gave a low whimsical chuckle “I merely gathered the people who can sense a part of her song, I wonder will you dance to it’s tune or diverge it?” Jedrick titled his head to one side slightly “song? I know what the dark prince wants of me, I do not know what she wants with you two.” Marius bought his hands together “so you can hear it..” Marius lazily looked over to Sebastian “you crave silence so you can hear the chattering within your mind. What do they say now Sebastian?” Sebastian mumbled “lightning will strike soon…”

Marius nodded “you are aware of your part after that?” Sebastian shook his head “Marthas helped me pick out their voices, all I know is that lightning will come to this ship and that my… usurpation of the warband was also ordained..” Marius rubbed his hands gently “I assume neither of you knows what comes after… especially you Jedrick.” Jedrick scoffed “I know what I want. I know what is coming. I am excited Marius I will not falter now.” he grinned baring his fangs “I waited so long Marius I won’t let you stop me if you are aiming to do so!” Marius inclined his head “I do not aim to stop you, but… you must do something before you head towards your part of the song.” Jedrick grumbled “I did not know you as a manipulator Marius. I do wonder sometimes since we got this ship you never fought with us. When the slaves rebelled I did not see you in sight either. I know you are seeking something I just don’t know what it is.”

Jedrick looked over to Sebastian “does it not concern you how quickly he went over to Adelram’s side Sebastian? After your defeat?” Sebastian bought his eyes over to Marius “at times it does concern me… you were so eager to join me at the time.” Jedrick could see marius blinking he began laughing, his laughter boomed in the hall causing chairs and even tables to shake. “You are concerned if I am going to betray him aren’t you?

Jedrick nodded “of course I am. I know what sort of creature Sebastian is but before I go I want to ensure no one seeks to exploit him. Right now Marius you are starting to appear as a threat.” Jedrick moved his hand to his axe, Marius stared at his hand and then back up to him “very well… before I joined my troupe, the ones who followed me we drifted on a gunship following the song that the dark prince sings within our minds.” Marius bought up his hands up as almost in prayer “then we encountered him, the song swept around him like a lover, sometimes it tilts or veers off course but it would always stay with him.

Jedrick eyes went wide with realisation “you have been plotting since they day we met you? Really!?” Marius inclined his head “the song is getting louder, but now it’s started to veer off course towards someone else. It’s almost like a tug of war right now hence why I observed and watched those who may of heard it. So now I come to you, seeing you I am certain which direction the dark prince wants it to go the song is not changing by her designs but by someone else.

Jedrick folded his arms, he stared at Marius “so whatever you are doing is in his best interest?” Jedrick searched Marius’ features for any sign of duplicity, he sighed “right what do you want me to do?” Jedrick watched the meat around his speaker shift slightly he guessed that Marius is smiling “All I want is for you to die well, in these next few moments he will either start to wilt or begin the path to blossoming. The song has to reach its end.” As Marius finished his sentence the ship tannoy activated “we are going to dive into the sea of souls. Please be prepared for any unnatural occurrences.” Jedrick mumbled “that is the captain's voice… I wonder where we are going?” Marius walked closer “there is not much time, whatever you need to do. Do it now.” Jedrick shook his head sighing “right, right I will think of something. Don’t worry.” Marius nodded “that is all I ask.” Marius turned to Sebastian “we will talk some more please come with me.” Sebastian inclined his head “very well.” Marius and Sebastian walked away, watching them leave Jedrick wondered what he should do. Jedrick thought about it for a few seconds until an idea struck him “I know! Right let’s go see him!”

Jedrick made his way to leaving the hall, he hoped what he had in mind was enough to satisfy Marius.

Beleth sat at his desk he rummaged his hair in frustration “why is he being this way!? There is nothing to fix!? He made me better! Why is rejecting that!?” Beleth tried to think where he went wrong, Jedrick said he would listen to him but he is doing the opposite. Beleth tried to calm himself “perhaps he is just agitated after the rebellion? That must be it?” Beleth’s mind drifted to his journal the words of his former self. The self he viewed to be naive “why does he want that back? What does he see in him?” Beleth’s heart began to twist “he wants to restore me, he wants to restore my vision but it’s impossible…” Beleth clenched his hands “why does he want to do something that is impossible!?” Beleth froze as he heard a knock on his door, the footsteps outside his room caused him to raise his eyebrow “why is he..” Beleth got up from his desk he made his way over to his room door. As he opened the door he said “you are visiting me this time?”

Beleth went back to his desk and sat down, his visitor walked into the room “aye, I need a favour.” Beleth scratched the back of his head “what sort of favour Jedrick?” Jedrick paced the room “I need to borrow your recorder and a fresh tape, don’t worry I will give it back.” Beleth turned slightly “may I ask why?” Jedrick sighed “just let me borrow it.” Beleth had no idea what he wanted it for but after all their discussions he can see that Jedrick does not ask for things or speaks for no reason. Beleth went to his belt and pulled out his recorder he took and tape and placed one within it. He rose from his desk and walked over to Jedrick, Beleth gestured at a button “you press it to start the recording. You press it again to stop it.” Beleth handed his recorder over “you are going to give it back?” Beleth tried to catch any hint of a lie, Jedrick’s feet were firm there were no unnatural movements “I will don’t worry. I will” Beleth felt his recorder leaving his hands.

Jedrick then turned away from him and left his room. Beleth had no idea what he wanted it for but he had a feeling he would make good use of it. Beleth made his way back to his desk, he stopped he felt his chest constricting he began coughing harshly. His chest hurt it felt tight, Beleth covered his mouth.

As the cough subsided phlegm lined his hands and he tasted blood in his mouth. Beleth furrowed his brow “what? Maybe?” Beleth placed his hand on his forehead he tried to detect if there is anything wrong with his body. “Nothing, no cold or flu.” Beleth picked out a cloth from his belt and wiped his hands “perhaps it’s nothing?”

Beleth rubbed his chest slightly, the constricting sensation in his chest is subsiding he tapped it “perhaps it was just a bad cough?”

Izel stared at the orb, the emperor’s children ship as dived into the warp and the tool he is going to use to end them is also swimming the sea of souls. Izel bought his eyes over the ritual hall, his acolytes are in place along with his Astartes apprentices. The hall had all of them in a circle, his apprentices made the inner surrounding him and his acolytes made a circle surrounding his apprentices. The halls have been prepared the correct runes and words of power have been carved on every inch of the hall to generate enough power for the ritual. Izel raised his staff and began chanting. The warp started to bend around both ships after a moment his apprentices and acolytes joined his voice. The paths within the warp started to divert and change. Blue flame erupted from Izel’s staff, the flame splintered into small pieces making its way to each rune as the flame touched a rune it began to glow with a blue light.

Izel noted that the hard part is now coming, Izel grunted as he moved his staff bending the pathways in the warp for both ships to intersect. His nose began to bleed, tears of blood began to run down his eyes. This is why he added the acolytes to this ritual, the gods dislike those who seek to play with their dominion but he had power over such things, it’s the power tzeentch has given him.

One by one his acolytes started to burn out. bursting into blue flames, he wrenched his staff pushing the pathway for both ships to meet. They travelled unsuspecting of what is about to happen, Izel had to hold the pathway for a few moments. As they began nearing each other, Izel slammed the haft of his staff on the ground releasing a surge of blue energy at once both ships were pulled out of the warp facing each other. Izel stopped his chant, he rested on his staff slightly due to the draining effects of the ritual he grinned upon seeing the image “now, my puppets kill each other…”

Tarkhan stood at the side of Ganzorig’s command throne with Batu, they stared at the traitor ship that is now before them, Ganzorig shook his head “how did this happen? According to the navigator we have veered off course..” Tarkhan narrowed his eyes “does it matter? Traitors are before us.. We should take their heads.” Tarkhan looked at the traitor ship, the mix of colours mad colours hurt his eyes. Batu gestured to him “we have an objective, we can’t bleed ourselves dry upon them.” Tarkhan hissed “ou-” Batu shook his head “our duty is to get to Califa, the defenders are holding for as long as they can focus on the horizon. Not upon the base of the hill.”

Ganzorig inclined his head towards Batu “I agree with our stormseer, the issue is how are we going to get past?” Ganzorig looked down upon the serfs “I want an assessment on the traitor ship!” from the consoles a serf called out “it seems to be a modified apocalypse class battleship! Armed with a nova cannon! They out range us!” Ganzorig grumbled “how are we going to get past that?” Tarkhan watched the screen his eyes went wide as he saw the cannon charging up “they are firing!” Ganzorig looked at the screen “evasive maneuvers now!” Tarkhan felt the ship making a quick turn, Ganzorig shouted “ahead full!” Tarkhan gripped the bar as the ship moved, the moon dancer bore its name because it could easily maintain full speed even when making quick turns.

Tarkhan watched the traitor ship make a large turn as their nova cannon was about to fire “the cannon is off course? What are they doing?” Ganzorig raised his eyebrow “I don’t know…” As the moon dancer moved through the void, Ganzorig clutched the arm of his command throne in shock “oh no! We are right in front of it!” Tarkhan blinked “they predicted where we are going to go?”

The ship shook heavily as the nova cannon fired, the serf called out “void shields at 75 percent!” Batu shook his head “we mainly have macro cannons, we have to find some way past the ship to get to Califa.” Tarkhan stared at the nova cannon “such a large cannon must use its engines to steady itself and to aim. I have seen many used by the imperial navy.” Ganzorig narrowed his eyes at him “what do you aim to do?” Tarkhan nodded “if we can get close, a team can make a surgical strike at one the engine reactors. It will slow them down and affect their aiming. Using this chance you can prepare a warp jump and get back on track to our objective.” Batu eyes went wide upon hearing his plan “that is a one way trip! The team won’t come back!”

Tarkhan grinned “of course, it’s my plan so I will take volunteers from my squad.” Ganzorig frowned “I won’t allow it, there must be another way.” he said firmly. Tarkhan felt the ship shudder again a serf called “55 percent!” Tarkhan walked in front of Ganzorig “khan, we are your blade to cut the head from the enemy. Right now that traitor ship is blocking us from our hunt. We can’t risk weakening the company in a battle such as this!” Tarkhan bought his eyes to Batu and then back to Ganzorig he took a deep breath “Batu is right you must keep your eyes on the horizon. Sometimes decisions will cost the lives of our brothers but that comes with being a khan. As members of your brotherhood we will always stand ready to give it!” Tarkhan waited for Ganzorig’s response it’s only been a few hours since he gave him this position.

Tarkhan thought of Batu’s words to stay at his Khan’s side, Tarkhan guessed that maybe he had to be at his side for this very moment, if he did not try to get to know him they might of been destroyed by the traitor’s nova cannon. If he did not speak to him of his concerns he would not be standing on the bridge right now. Tarkhan waited for what felt like an age, Ganzorig finally inclined his head “get the volunteers from your squad to the boarding torpedoes. I will get you close to the ship.” Tarkhan bowed “yes Khan.” As he made his way off the bridge Batu grasped his pauldron “are you sure about this?” Tarkhan grabbed Batu’s hand he can see the clear worry lining his features “I am old friend. Perhaps I was meant to be here in this moment to get our Khan to where he needed to go.” Batu slowly moved his hand away from his pauldron he seemed unsure “perhaps Tarkhan, take as many of them down as you can.” Tarkhan grinned “of course I will do not worry Batu.”

Tarkhan left the bridge he put his helmet on, he opened his squad channel “this is Tarkhan, this is not an order but a request to brothers. I am making a surgical strike to the engine reactors of the enemy ship. Know that if you turn this down that I will not think any less of you, perhaps you feel your blade should be at the side of our Khan. But those who wish to come with me into the jaws of hell? Signal now and make your way to the boarding torpedoes!” Tarkhan watched the names of the 8 members that made his squad, one by one the lights next to their name chimed green. Tarkhan smiled as he stared at 8 green lights “those traitors will not know what hit them..”

Adelram stood with Lily on the bridge, he could see that the white scars are attempting to dodge the Nova cannon. Adelram looked up at the command throne, Lily was almost like a computer predicting exactly where they are going to go. While watching the ship what concerned him more than anything is how they crossed each other warp travel and be unpredictable at times but what is happening now felt.. Wrong to him. Lily frowned “their focus on speed means nothing, if you can predict where they will go it does not matter how fast they move.” Adelram nodded “for a battle barge it’s moving quite fast and smooth also but you took down far better captains haven’t you?” Lily grinned “of course. Just a few more shots their void shields will fall and then they will start taking hull damage.”

Adelram watched the screen, the white scar ship is starting to turn towards them he raised his eyebrow “what are they planning to do?” Lily shrugged “all they are doing is making them an easier target.” Adelram stroked his chin “I am not too sure about that…”

Ganzorig stared at his command throne screen, he could see Tarkhan and his squad are now in the boarding torpedoes “we have to time this well…” Ganzorig nodded he looked up at the bridge crew “I want all excess power diverted to engines!” the serfs shouted “yes captain!” Ganzorig watched on the screen as the power reactors began diverting the excess energy to the engines. Ganzorig smiled “first time using this isn’t it?” Batu nodded “enjoy it while it lasts Khan.” Ganzorig watched the traitor ship beginning to turn to face them he brought up the command to push the engines above their normal limits. The nice thing is about white scar ships, they are built to have far greater limits than normal imperial and even Astartes Variants.

Ganzorig watched a big red button appear on the command throne screen, he pressed it the ship turned dark for a moment, the lights shifted to red as a servitor announced “engines fully activated! Limits removed!” Serfs, prepared their belts Ganzorig imagined across the ship many are preparing to hold onto something.

Ganzorig stared at the screen as the countdown began the servitor echoed it “5…..4…...3…..2……..1…” as one left the lips of the servitor Ganzorig slammed back on his chair as the ship zoomed forward. Batu was holding onto the rail even in power armour he would of lost his footing if he did not prepare himself beforehand. The moon dancer surged forwards, as they were approaching the side of the traitor ship Ganzorig opened a communication channel with boarding torpedoes “we are launching them! Get ready!” Tarkhan’s voice echoed through the vox as always his voice holds conviction “launching!”

Ganzorig watched the torpedoes launch he smiled as they trailed in the void landing in the correct spot, as the moon dancer surged pass the traitor ship Ganzorig closed his eyes “watch your step brother, it’s down to you.”

Tarkhan felt his boarding torpedo shudder, he prepared his power armour to absorb the impact of crashing into the traitor ship. Tarkhan steadied his breathing he gripped his dao in its sheath. He waited until finally he felt the impact and then the heat of the melta guns making a hole, the torpedo door slid open. Tarkhan moved his way down and stepped upon the traitor ship.

Tarkhan did a head count all 8 of his squad is here, he could see the human followers of the traitors rushing for side arms. Tarkhan grinned as he placed his hand on the handle of his blade he gripped his sheath and drew his blade he shouted “laugh while killing!” Tarkhan charged, his squad readied their weapons.

The human traitors stood no chance, the bullets from their autoguns bounced from their armour as Tarkhan cut them down. Their blood trailing off his blade, with each movement and each cut.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/14 21:06:41


Post by: shinros


Chapter 9

Tarkhan cut his way to the reactor core, thankfully the defence seems light but they must act quickly since there is no telling when the traitor Astartes will appear. He also tried not to stare at the walls the mix of colours oddly strained his mind, he had to focus not a backwards step. There is no going back now. Tarkhan ran with his squad, he cut another corner eventually reaching a set of double doors. Tarkhan reached for the panel to open the door, walking in he saw it the reactor pulsing with energy. He looked over to his squad “set up the charges.” Tarkhan removed the melta charge from his belt they went to work placing it at possible weak points. Tarkhan barked an order “set charges for 2 minutes” His squad chimed an acknowledgement as they all activated their melta charges.

Satisfied Tarkhan stepped back, he gestured to the door “move quickly! We want to be out of the blast radius!” Tarkhan and his squad made their way out of the reactor room. He made sure to seal the door behind him. Tarkhan barked an order “keep running! Don’t stop!” Tarkhan watched the countdown ticking away on his heads up display. They had about a minute to get away.

Adelram narrowed his eyes he looked up to Lily “speed is not everything?” Lily grumbled “I did not expect that, but I will not fall for such a tactic again.” Adelram shook his head knowing Lily she is most likely filing this experience within her mind. As the she began maneuvers to face the white scar ship, Adelram felt the ground shaking. After a moment the ship shuddered which almost threw him off balance. Lily’s eyes darted to the command throne screen she swore “they attacked the engines… dammit!” Adelram steadied himself “so I assume they just cut our speed and aiming?” Lily nodded “plus we have been boarded.” Adelram placed his helmet on his head upon hearing the news “right I will handle it focus on the void battle.”

Lily inclined her head “right, be careful.” Adelram unsheathed his blade “do not worry, I will gather some Astartes to take care of it.”

Tarkhan and his squad dived around a corner as the inferno shot through the corridor, two of his squad were not so lucky they were caught in the inferno. Tarkhan panted as he rose to his feet “right, now we take as many of the bastards down before we die. Ready your weapons!” As the remainder of his squad got their weapons ready he heard footsteps in the middle of the hall he saw a lone Astartes, a traitor Astartes holding an axe and knife. The traitor clicked his neck as he growled “which one of you is the one!?” Tarkhan raised his eyebrow “you attack us by yourself? Are you foolish traitor!?” Tarkhan chuckled “what am I saying? All traitors are foolish…” At once his squad charged, two moved ahead of him their blades flashing out towards the lone warrior.

The traitor laughed “it’s not you two... “ His axe swept out cleaving the head off one of his squad in a single blow. The second he planted his knife in their neck dragging them to the ground and stomping on their helmet several times caving in their head. The traitor shook his head “far too weak, I am not holding back for this.. Which one of you is it!?” he roared. Tarkhan confused on what the traitor is searching for stepped in towards him he flicked his blade out each blow the traitor blocked. Tarkhan took a step back so his brothers could make their attack, the traitor’s eyes locked onto him “those blows, seem practised… refined. Perhaps…” As his eyes were held onto him one of his brothers attacked without looking the traitor parried the blow and removed his arm with a small movement from his axe. Then like lightning his axe went for his head causing it to topple from his body.
Tarkhan watched in shock he wondered who on earth this Astartes is, again his brothers attacked he kept killing them hacking them apart like children until only one of his squad is left. Tarkhan and his last remaining brother edged around the traitor Astartes, he signalled to him that they will attack at the same time from both sides.

Tarkhan nodded, they both charged at once his blade came downwards upon the traitor’s knife he pushed back the attack turning at the same time his movement fluid almost like water. To Tarkhan’s shock, he parried his brother’s incoming attack and soon after his axe wielding arm cut through the air planting his axe into his remaining brothers neck. As the last of his squad toppled to the floor the traitor faced Tarkhan he chuckled “we are now alone.. What is your name?” Tarkhan narrowed his eyes “I refuse to give my name to someone who bows to yaksha!” The traitor shrugged “fine I will tell you mine, my name is Jedrick compared to the dregs I killed you are different. Almost captain level or even above that.”

Tarkhan gripped his dao as he mentioned his skill level “enough speaking!” Tarkhan charged their weapons danced in the air sparks flew as the power fields made contact with each other. Tarkhan can clearly see the traitor is good, perhaps even better than Ganzorig. The traitor named Jedrick began laughing “this is fun isn’t it!? Why aren’t you laughing with me!?” Tarkhan grit his teeth as he parried incoming strike and made a shallow slash on the chest of the traitor. The traitor staggered back slightly, he looked at the gash on his armour his laughter boomed in corridor “more! Come on!” He charged almost like a wild animal, each of his strikes were measured, controlled but they came in so quickly Tarkhan had trouble blocking each blow. He continued to laugh as he hacked away at his guard.

Tarkhan steadied his breathing he had to wait for the right moment, as the traitor made a overhead slash he got ready to divert the strike as the axe made contact with his blade the sheer weight of the attack broke his guard instead. Wide open he slashed his chest. Tarkhan tried to step back he felt the axe slicing through his armour barely touching his skin. Tarkhan panted, for some reason he felt almost excited a smile played across his features, “Tarkhan.” The traitor Jedrick inclined his head “interesting name.” Jedrick charged again they danced in the hall as their weapons clashed all they could do is nick one another making gashes in their power armour.

Jedrick laughed “isn’t this fun Tarkhan!? Tell me!” Tarkhan held his tongue for some reason he could not control his emotions. He could not remain calm, the longer this fight goes on the more he starts to enjoy it. Jedrick smashed through his guard and slashed into his pauldron cutting deep, as Jedrick removed his axe a small amount of blood trickled from the wound. Tarkhan took a step back, breathing heavily his opponent pointed his axe at him “what’s the matter? Why are you holding back!?” Tarkhan narrowed his eyes “I am not holding back traitor!” Tarkhan felt the wound in his shoulder has started to heal he gasped as he gripped his dao slightly. Tarkhan charged he roared as he struck at the traitor again and again, while blocking and parrying his strikes the traitor chuckled “that’s it... “

Tarkhan smashed aside his guard he twisted making a downwards slash across the chest of the traitor Jedrick's blood splashed to the floor as he staggered back from the attack. Jedrick looked to his wound and then the blood on the floor “how did that feel Tarkhan?” Tarkhan gulped he is making progress this is the hardest battle he has faced so far in his long years as an Astartes. The grin from before come back he could not help but chuckle slightly, Jedrick nodded “see it’s fun isn’t it?” Jedrick charged at him laughing blood spilling from his wound. Again they repeated they both dodged and parried blows, the difference this time clean cuts are getting through. Tarkhan held his grin, he could not help it his chuckle soon turned to a laugh as they both duelled each other. Both of them were laughing, their weapons clanged, smashed and sparked together as their weapons crossed.

Tarkhan limbs began to tire, a part of him wanted this to never end, to his shock he is finding such joy in fighting a traitor. Still he had to find a way to end it. They were both equal, both of them had troubling breaking their guard or landing a telling blow.
Tarkhan grit his teeth as an idea crossed his mind he lowered his guard leaving himself open, Jedrick took the opportunity to strike. His axe tore into his shoulder, blood flaked Tarkhan’s lips. Tarkhan laughed while he shouted “how interesting this battle is traitor! But it ends here!” Tarkhan held Jedrick’s axe wielding arm in place, he impaled Jedrick with his blade and twisted. Jedrick gasped as his grip loosened on his axe.

Both of them staggered back to the wall. Tarkhan felt like his shoulder is now on fire, he staggered back to the wall as his body slid to the ground. Tarkhan’s eyes felt heavy he stared at Jedrick who was now sitting in front of him on the other side of the wall. Tarkhan gasped, the axe is deep he grinned “interesting fight Jedrick…” Jedrick inclined his head “aye, same goes to you..”

They both went slack, Tarkhan eyes fluttered slightly as they closed shut.

Ganzorig grasped the arms of his command throne a serf shouted “enemy engines are damaged!” Ganzorig looked over to Batu “He did it Batu!” Batu frowned “yes, he did…” looking at his frown he realised again that Tarkhan is now gone, he curbed his excitement and looked to the serfs he barked “prepare for a warp jump now!” The shutters began to cover the ship. The warp engine began charging. A serf called “nova cannon beginning to charge!” Ganzorig grasped his throne "this is going to be close…. " The serf called again “the traitor ship is facing us!” Ganzorig stared at his command throne screen the warp engine is almost ready. He then heard another call “nova cannon firing!” Ganzorig felt a small shudder as the warp engine reached 100 percent. The shutters fully closed and the shuddering vanished. The screen chimed to single they were now within the warp. Ganzorig sighed heavily “Batu, we have to remember Tarkhan’s sacrifice…” Batu inclined his head “yes Khan.”

Ganzorig rose from his throne “I must prepare the company for war. Since it’s likely we are jumping into another battle.” As Ganzorig stepped down a part of him wished that Tarkhan was here. In the end as his advisor he gave the best course of action.

Adelram ran towards the reactor as he crossed the corridors he oddly linked up with Marius and his noise marines “how interesting.. You are joining me?” Marius nodded he screeched “true we don’t know how many have boarded the ship. Silas and Marthas are on their way but for some reason I can’t reach Jedrick. ”

Marius released a low hum, Adelram frowned “you think Jedrick would take on all of them? Now he is not that foolish…” Adelram made another corner upon reaching the hall he saw 8 dead Astartes in white armour. Adelram’s eyes went wide as he slowly walked down on the hall on the right he saw Jedrick in a sitting position a blade impaled in his chest he is not moving. Adelram slowly shook his head a strange emotion clenched his hearts, it felt like acid within his gut. He felt fear, genuine fear as he ran over to Jedrick. Adelram blacked out everything around him “there is no way…” he told himself. He rushed over. He knelt in front of Jedrick, he removed his helmet to see his face is now ashen. Blood lined his lips as he gave a weak cough he smiled weakly “that… was so much fun..” Adelram shook his head “what are you talking about you idiot!” Adelram fumbled through his communication display he had to contact Asriel. He could heal him, Jedrick roughly grabbed his arm “stop that… it’s too late.”

Adelram hissed “shut up you dumb dog! Why in the name of the Phoenician did you do this!?” Adelram swore, he had none of his apothecary equipment on him he gave it up. If he had it.. Adelram looked around and then up to Marius who was looking impassively at them. Adelram shouted “well do something!? Why are you standing around!?”

Marius spoke softly “so are you making your journey now?” Jedrick inclined his head “indeed I am..” Jedrick faced him “Adelram take off your helmet for a second…” Adelram fidgeted he tore off his helmet “you are not going anywhere. You are going to live. I will ensure that…” Jedrick chuckled “look at your face, you look so worried for me. Don’t worry I am going somewhere better…” Adelram wanted to shake him he is spouting his nonsense again at most he will dissipate in the warp or be devoured by daemons “Jedrick, your beliefs… they..” Jedrick narrowed his eyes at him “it’s going to happen!” Jedrick coughed harshly “I know what you are thinking… that I am leaving you behind. Just like Augustus… well… I am…”

Adelram closed his eyes tightly “don’t… you need to be here. You are not leaving...” Jedrick reached over and grasped his pauldron “you don’t need me, plus you got someone better…” Jedrick gestured his head to the other side of the room, Adelram faced the direction he gestured to, Adelram scowled the white scar is still breathing “I will kill him… tear out his eyes, tongue and feast his soul… to.. To..” Jedrick hissed “you won’t! Make him yours as you did to me!” Adelram shook his head “I won’t.. I refuse. I will kill him for what he did to you..” Jedrick mumbled “so difficult as always… but perhaps that’s what makes you so interesting? You care oddly enough…perhaps too much..” Jedrick’s breathing began to turn hoarse “do it as a favour to me okay…? You can do that much?” Adelram placed his hand to his brow he lowered it after a moment and looked at Jedrick “fine… fine..” Jedrick nodded “good…”

Jedrick reached for his belt he pulled out a familiar recorder “a-a m-me-” The recorder tumbled from his hands as his body went slack, his head drifted to one side. Adelram watched the light drift from his eyes. Adelram’s world drained of all colour, despair gripped him as he slowly reached for Jedrick’s eyes, his hands were shaking as he closed them. Adelram’s lips trembled “I hope you get to the place you need to go..”

As Adelram reached for the recorder as he grasped it, Jedrick’s body began to disintegrate, slowly it crumbled to shining pink dust that fluttered to the wind. Adelram eyes went wide “what…?” Adelram rose as every inch of Jedrick’s body gave way leaving only dust that swept into the halls of the ship.

Adelram looked down at the recorder, he turned to face the one who killed his brother fury built in his hearts. He wanted to tear him apart scatter him to the winds. Until he remembered his favour his body relaxed as he faced Marius. He pointed at the white scar “take him to one of the operating theatres I will deal with him. Have the remaining serfs clear and loot the rest of the corpses”

Marius nodded, Adelram walked away without another word he looked at the recorder Jedrick said something about it and he wondered why he had something that belongs to Asriel. Adelram aimed to find out.

Adelram stood in his chamber he held the recorder in hand, he pressed the play button and set it upon the table. Then his voice came, a voice after this tape he will never hear again “by the gods, I thought this would be more easier…” Jedrick mumbled “right… right.. I know you. You are devastated wondering what to do next. You are most likely wondering why I had to leave you.” Adelram clutched his hand hearing his voice he shouted at the recorder “why did you leave!? Why! You selfish bastard!” The recorder was silent for a moment until Jedrick’s voice came back “right I imagine you are most likely screaming right now...sorry.” Adelram shook his head “dammit… it’s too late to say that.”

Jedrick chuckle came from the recorder “now that I apologised… I will say this. Don’t give up, things will go wrong all the time my dear brother but know this. What is important is how you deal with failure in the eyes of the dark prince that is the most important. Sometimes in failure is when you have the chance to shine like a star.” Adelram did not feel like a star in his vision in his mind he sees no colour he tries to focus but hearing his voice from the recorder made it hard. Jedrick continued “we have been through a lot, assassinations, wars and predicting betrayals from your brothers. That was our time, when all the rest were far more concerned with their own vices you waited patiently because you wanted us to be something better. Greater, Augustus followed his own vision of perfection blocking everyone else out. Crippling the warband in doing so.”

Adelram steadied his breathing, he remembered the times before when Jedrick first joined he found his brashness annoying at first. How casual and loud he was vexed him but he always stood at his side. Adelram tried to hold onto that just for a moment as Jedrick’s voice came from the recorder “as I go to my death I will tell you this. Keep him close, whatever his name is now that human of yours is partly the reason why we are here right now. If you can’t trust anyone trust him and show him you that he can trust you in turn. If someone seeks to take him away from you? Be ruthless, take no quarter to those who wish to harm him. For in a sense he is your second half far more than I was. Of course you being a hard arse at times is why I am telling you this. Well… damn.. Talking like this is making it hard.”

Adelram heard a crackle “talking like this almost makes me not want to do it… but for your sake I am. So hold your head high okay brother? If anyone seeks to take you down? Annihilate them. Now… one last thing if you really seek to become better. You will destroy that piano in your room. That is the first step, the first true step and now finally? My brother? This is goodbye…”

The recorder clicked off, Adelram stood in silence staring at the recorder. His hearts ached it felt like they were going to burst out of his chest. Adelram faced the piano in silence it sat there pristine and in mint condition. He raised his hand eldritch bolts sparked from it he released it at the piano letting the energy run through it. The wood splintered until it shattered bursting into pieces. Adelram then felt a small trickle down his eye, he wiped it and readied himself.

He grabbed the recorder and made his way to the operating theatre.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/14 21:07:09


Post by: shinros


Spoiler:
Good dam this chapter was hard to write.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/15 14:24:35


Post by: lliu


Nice. At least Jedrick got his fighting end he wanted. But now how many astartes are left for them?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/15 15:25:10


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice. At least Jedrick got his fighting end he wanted. But now how many astartes are left for them?


Not many... they were about the size of a company, they have about a quarter left of that. Plus they got almost no slaves either. The warband is in quite a vulnerable position.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/17 02:38:24


Post by: shinros


Chapter 10

Adelram walked to the operating theatre, each step felt heavy to him it felt like great weights have been attached to his legs slowing him down. He closed his eyes “it’s going to be so quiet without you around…” he went through old memories, saving him from a dreadnaught. The bloodshed in taking the warband, the dinner he served him…. Adelram slowly opened his eyes he had to find resolve. He is gone now, Jedrick has given his goodbye and his words of strength. The recorder bounced in his pouch, the same one Jedrick used to deliver his words. Adelram sighed wondering if he told Asriel what purpose Jedrick has used it for
.
Adelram shook his head “he wouldn't say, I know him..” upon reaching the operating theatre he spotted Marius talking with Marthas and Silas. As he approached they silently turned to face him. Marthas walked forward “I-” Adelram raised his hand “I am fine, is the prisoner secure?” he bought his eyes to Marius who inclined his head he gave a low hum in approval. Marthas shook his head in almost disapproval “so I assume you are going to torture him?” Adelram stared at the door for a moment “no.”

Silas spoke upon hearing his words, confusion lined his voice “that is… surprising...” Adelram held his gaze on the door “upon seeing the state of Jedrick I wanted to torture him. To tear him apart, Jedrick had other ideas. Thinking on it, this white scar has made me curious.” he made his way to the door, Adelram turned his head to Marius “you will aid me. Come.” Marius raised his eyebrow in surprise he released a low rumble, Adelram frowned “I don’t care if you have stuff to do. It’s my will that you aid me in this.” Marthas blinked at his exclamation “Adelram are you alright?”
He clutched his hands in frustration it’s clear that he is deviating, it’s clear he is acting different. But perhaps he has to in order to get this warband back on track. Plus the added fact of fixing Asriel. Adelram thought on past failures and the death of Jedrick. He moved his tongue around his mouth the place where his new mark has been branded, he could taste the brand of the dark prince, his favour is still there he could tell. Adelram wondered perhaps he should place more stock on slaanesh’s divinity. He accepted that the dark prince is a god, he already gave away his soul. All this hardship and suffering he wondered perhaps if It’s a test? Or a sort of journey the dark prince is placing him on?

Thinking of how Jedrick talked and acted when it came to the dark prince it’s clear that he was a fanatic, far more than Ivan. The only difference is that he does not preach about it. Adelram closed his eyes for a moment he opened them as he turned to face Marthas “I am fine, shouldn't you be more concerned about your temple? As I said Marius will aid me I do not require either you or Silas.” Silas tutted at his words “fine, Marthas it’s clear we are not wanted. We have more important things to do than watch Adelram play with a loyalist.” Adelram could see Marthas is mumbling something to himself he sighed as he walked away with Silas.

Adelram nodded to Marius “I will require your voice brother.” Marius inclined his head in turn, Adelram opened the door of the operating theatre. Inside Caius has finished stitching up the wound of the white scar Astartes. His armour has been stripped away, along with his weapons. On the table bound and facing upwards he can see the clear anger on the loyalists face. For some reason as Adelram stared at the bound Astartes he was oddly getting excited. It’s been a long time since he has last done this.
Upon walking in Caius looked up “Astartes Adelram…” Adelram inclined his head “Caius is our guest stable?” Caius responded his voice as always is monotone “yes, he is ready for you.” Adelram smiled “good, you are dismissed.” Caius gave a small bow before shuffling out of the room. Adelram walked around the table, Marius stood in the corner of the room. Adelram drew in the features of the loyalist, no hair, dark eyes and his light skin tone.

Staring at him his interest grew “So tell me, how did you find killing my brother?” The loyalist grunted his chogorisian accent thick as he spat “it’s a shame I could not remove his head traitor!” Adelram smiled “vicious… skilled enough to kill my exalted champion also… do you have a name?” The white scar simply frowned “I will not give my name to you..” Adelram shrugged as his hovered his hand over his head a soft light emitted from his hand as the white scar jerked in his bonds.

Adelram nodded “Tarkhan, veteran of the third brotherhood.” Tarkhan scowled “witch! Sorcerer! Bowing to yaksha! If I was not bound!” Adelram gave a thin smile “but you are Tarkhan, you see I want to find out more about you. What makes you tick?” Adelram bought both his hands upon Tarkhan’s head he could feel him resisting but his battle with Jedrick has weakened him. He pulled at distant memories, his childhood with his tribe, being taken by the stormseer Batu. Adelram smiled as he watched his bladework, cutting apart xeno’s and his cousins.
Finally in the deep recess he saw it, his desire his need. Tarkhan screamed “No! No!” Adelram gripped it and pulled it out. He could see that Tarkhan had so many dangerous thoughts, almost heretical. Adelram removed his hands from Tarkhan’s head blood trickled down his nose. Adelram gave Tarkhan a slight tap on his head “so… a part of you hates Ganzorig? You hate your captain?” Tarkhan shook his head “I do not! That is a lie!”

Adelram grinned “I know what I saw, you may not want to believe it but it’s there. Plus your hatred of the stormseers? So very interesting…” Adelram spoke in a mocking tone “why don’t they make me Khan!? I am a veteran! I have turned the tide of battle! I have Lead our brothers to numerous victories!” Adelram watched Tarkhan squirm in his bonds he chuckled “they won’t let me be Khan of the scout company!”

Adelram opened his hands “that’s not even the worst of it? Isn’t it?” Tarkhan shouted “shut up! Just shut up!” Adelram shook his head “no, I will not. What has confused you Tarkhan is the belief that your Khagan. Your primarch bares a perfect soul. Yet your stormseers tell you that only Jagahti Khan achieved such a state.” Adelram bought his face directly of Tarkhan’s he stared into his eyes “you see Tarkhan, there are far more perfect beings in the galaxy. Far greater beings. Like say… my father.. Or even the dark prince himself.”
Adelram could tell Tarkhan’s breathing has become hoarse he continued “I can provide you the opportunity to fight Ganzorig with all your might. To prove that you are better. To prove that just because he is a primaris space marine does not make him better than you…” Tarkhan closed his eyes “I won’t listen..! I won’t drink from the cup!” Adelram frowned he looked up to Marius. “Marius can you sing for Tarkhan please?”

Marius gave an abnormal chuckle he opened his arms and a distorted sound erupted from his speaker. Adelram stood upright as Tarkhan began trashing in his bonds he screamed and jerked as the sound engulfed the room. As Marius sang, Adelram found it quite enjoyable, the stinging and ringing in his ears, the words that he can detect. He wondered if it would be possible to ever sing like Marius. Adelram bought his face back down to Tarkhan, staring at him watching his head trash his eyes dilate was pleasing.
Adelram looked up to Marius “can you stop?” Marius bought down his arms, the sound slowly bled away. Tarkhan panted “I-I won’t…” Adelram smiled “you will…” Adelram stood upright he bought his hands upon Tarkhan’s head again “I am going to be changing the receptors in your brain Tarkhan. My brother is putting in a lot of work to sing for you. The least you can do is enjoy it.”

Small purple electric sparks began playing across Tarkhan’s head he jerked in his bounds he grit his teeth trying to bear the pain. Adelram moved one of his fingers across his head, Tarkhan began screaming at the top of his voice.
Salvador walked the halls of the ship, it seems so quiet, so empty.. The rebellion took many lives but his master succeeded. He prevented them from tearing the ship apart, he stopped them from from tearing his happiness to pieces. Salvador knew his place is here but there is a chance something like that might happen again hence why he is visiting his brother. Looking down to his hooves the fur that covered his legs patches of the fur was turning white it started to happen since he helped Adelram punish the ring leaders.
Salvador looked up as he made his way to Beleth’s door he faced the door and knocked lightly. It’s likely he already knew it was him before he knocked. The door slid open and he saw the face of his brother, the one who cared for him and his happiness. Beleth frowned “what is it Salvador?” Salvador could see Beleth seems agitated about something or on edge “is everything okay brother?” when Beleh heard him uttered those words he sighed slightly he then smiled “I am fine, tell me what is it?”

Salvador fidgeted slightly he played with his hands “I want to ask a favour…” he watched Beleth fold his arms confusion lined his face as he said “right, what is this favour?” Salvador gulped “c-can you teach me to fight like you can? You put me to sleep since I would just be in the way right? I want to help you and master when stuff like that happens!” Salavdor took a step back as Beleth left his room, he looked down thinking for a moment he bought his head upwards “fine. You will have to follow my instructions to the letter, but first I need to pick up something.”
Salvador raised his eyebrow “oh? What are you going to get?” his brother scratched his head “Adelram likely has my recorder I can sense strange screams coming from a nearby operating theatre.” Beleth began briskly walking down the hall, Salvador trotted after him. Salvador noticed as they walked he picked up faint screams his ears twitched at the noise “oh you were right…” Beleth stopped he turned his head back slightly “I am surprised you heard that..” Salvador frowned slightly “what do you mean? We are close by.”
Beleth smiled slightly no more words passed his lips as they continued to walk to the operating theatre upon reaching their destination, Salvador could hear the same screams piercing the door. Beleth rubbed his neck slightly before opening the door “I don’t recognise that voice… perhaps…” Salvador furrowed his brow in confusion “perhaps what?” his brother shook his head as he opened the door, the screams erupted from the room as they walked inside.

Entering the room he saw an Astartes who’s mouth bore a giant speaker, looking to the table he saw his master Adelram hovering his hands over the bound Astartes head he jerked and screamed in his bonds. Upon seeing both of them he lowered his hands he gave a gentle smile “Asriel…Salvador.. What are you doing here?” Salvador scratched his head “Asriel? Who is that?” Beleth scowled in anger “why must you do that!?” Adelram shrugged “do what? It’s your name, the one I gave you.” Beleth hissed “this name I bare by your father is my true name! Why are you rejecting that!?” Salvador watched Adelram’s hands twitch slightly “oh really? It’s your true name? Does not sound like the dark tongue.” Beleth ground his teeth “it’s been rearranged for the sake of normal people, I shall tell you my true name it’s le’beth.” Salvador winced slightly as Beleth uttered that name the hairs on his body stood on end.

Salvador looked up his to master who is merely frowning “I like Asriel much better… now what do you want?” Beleth rummaged his hair in frustration “why are you being so difficult!?” Adelram placed his hand over the Astartes who now groaned in pain “you are the difficult one accept my will or you have to deal with being annoyed all the time.” Salvador tapped his fingers as he watched the conversation his voice came out a squeak “I kinda like Asriel…” His brother flicked towards him anger blazing on his face “don’t!”

Salvador flinched back slightly, Adelram shook his head disapprovingly “why are you speaking to your dear brother like that?” Adelram smiled at him “you like the name Asriel don’t you Salvador?” Salvador nodded slowly “I do…” Adelram looked to Beleth “He sacrificed everything for my sake and now he is throwing a tantrum now that I wish to find a way to return that which has been lost.” His lord flexed his fingers as they hovered over the head of the Astartes he jerked again in the bonds “for now, you may call him Beleth. I do not wish to harm the relationship between you two.”
Salvador nodded “yes my lord..” Beleth mumbled as he faced Adelram he opened his hand “I assume you have my recorder?” Adelram lowered his hands he opened one of his pouches and pulled out a recorder. Before handing it to Beleth, Salvador spotted him taking out the tape and crushing it in his hands before handing the recorder back to Beleth. “Why did you crush the tape? I assume it’s from..” Adelram dropped the bits of tape on the floor “I heard his message, I will hold it close to my hearts but I must move forward. Now Asriel leave me for now we will speak more once we get to the Lord Commander’s space station.”

Salvador titled his head “lord commander? Space station?” The astartes with that bore a speaker for a mouth emitted a screech that hurt Salvador’s ears. Adelram inclined his head “indeed Marius, we are visiting him to aid him in whatever task he requires of us. Plus we desperately require resources and I don’t expect it to come freely…” Beleth frowned at the news “so do you trust him?” Adelram traced his finger over the Astartes head his teeth chittered with each movement of Adelram’s finger “no, I do not but I trust that he wants to rebuild the third. Eidolon does not merely hand out such messages to everyone.”

Beleth bobbed his head “I see, so I assume we are almost there?” Adelram smiled “indeed, I assume he has sent this message to others it would be interesting to see how my brothers are faring..” Salvador listened to Adelram’s words it’s clear something important will happen soon and he is taking steps to fix the quiet that now plagues the ship. Salvador bought his eyes to the bound Astartes “so who is that?” Adelram smiled gently “This is Tarkhan, I am showing my new brother our way of things… he is responding to it well..”
Salvador examined the face of Tarkhan blood is trailing down his eyes, nose and ears. “Now Salvador, Asriel...I need to concentrate I will talk with you later.” Salvador bowed slightly “yes master.” Salvador could see his brother grimacing as he called him Asriel. Beleth walked to the door “come Salvador we have stuff to do won’t we?” Salvador nodded, they walked out of the room leaving Adelram to his devices. As the door closed a strange noise came from the door to Salvador it is oddly pleasant, after a second of listening screams erupted from the door, agonised screams that yelled for them to stop almost to the point of begging.

Salvador wanted to help Lord Adelram, he wanted to see and hear in detail what he is doing. Beleth grasped his shoulder breaking his concentration “right training… just hearing how you walk you seem stronger than a normal young man. You run faster as well… also have you noticed your steps have gotten heavier?” Salvador scratched the back of his head “no, I haven’t but something strange has been happening.” he looked to his legs the fur that covered it “patches of the fur on my legs is turning white.”
His brother smiled “perhaps the dark prince is placing a little bit of her favour on you!” Salvador’s eyes went wide at such a fact he almost felt excited. Beleth nodded “ri-” Beleth’s words died on his lips as he began heavily coughing he he tapped his chest slightly as he steadied his breathing “r-right let’s get moving shall we?” Salvador frowned “brother are you okay..?”

He moved his hand away from his shoulder “I feel fine, it’s just a cough. Now let’s get training.” Beleth walked down the hall, Salvador followed he could not help but feel anxious somewhat after his brother’s coughing episode.
Marthas stood in the temple watching the remaining Astartes of the warband spar at most he could count about twenty-five Astartes. Marthas creased his brow in frustration “all that work wasted….” Marthas stared at those sparing it's good that they want to remain alert. Adelram has not announced where they are going but considering the conversation they had in his chamber it’s evident enough where he is taking the ship. Silas trudged next to him the servo’s of his terminator armour purring at each motion “he flounders, he knows he made a grave mistake and now he listens to us.”

Marthas narrowed his eyes slightly, it’s clear enough that Silas seeks conversation and he does not like where this conversation is likely heading “so you would of done better then?” Silas turned to face him the blue eyes of his terminator helm bore into him “I would have. You know I would have done better.” Marthas tapped the haft on his weapon on the ground “perhaps… the reality is that this is all that is left of my temple. It is all that is left of the warband… Jedrick’s lot has been wiped out but I doubt he cared for their deaths.” Silas snorted “Jedrick is a fool! He should of joined us in grasping for perfection! But always he is stuck in his ways..”

Marthas frowned he got to the point “so you want to take over the warband?” Silas chuckled “of course I do I am sure many of those who are still alive here would support me. It is ordained that I lead…” Marthas raised his eyebrow “ordained? By whom?” Marthas bought his full attention to Silas he could see Silas mumbling for a moment he then spoke clearly “ don’t worry about that the question is when the time comes Marthas which side will you be on?” Marthas tightened his grip on Eligos he stared at the remainder of the temple out of all of them Silas is the most perfect he wondered on Zatos did he make a mistake? He wondered just maybe he should of focused all of his attention on Silas? Marthas sighed “give me time to think on it. I understand what you are saying.” Silas nodded slightly “I am confident when the time comes you will stand with me. How many chances are you going to give Adelram?”

Marthas did wonder how many chances he would give him, when he returned to the compound he was so sure but now? Now he wonders that there might actually be credit to what Silas is saying. “Let’s see how he handles the meeting with The Soul-severed and we shall see what happens from there..”

Silas chuckled “I wholeheartedly agree.”

Tarkhan screamed his vision blurred each jolt he feels in his head, each note of that abnormal song that enters his ears he feels the walls of his mind crumbling under the weight. Every inch of his body is telling him to give in. If he just let’s go the galaxy would be a much more brighter place, a enjoyable place where he laugh to his heart's content. Yet he could not laugh all he felt is the blood in his mouth and a burning sensation in his throat.

Tarkhan gasped “s-stop!” as always his gentle voice would enter his mind that voice that is at odds with the monstrosity that is now torturing him “why? You seem to be enjoying it? Plus the face you make when my brother sings? Stop resisting and it will soon stop hurting.” Tarkhan wanted it to end the pain it was too much, again the abnormal song entered his mind. He felt his nerves lighting up it is like they are burning. Tarkhan gasped things were going dark his muscles felt slack a pink haze blurred his vision.
He felt so tired, his eyes heavy as the haze engulfed him he blinked, he stood upright he was on a cliff edge and before him stood a figure. He could not see this person the sunlight was strangely obscuring him save their incredibly long hair flowing in the wind.
Tarkhan slowly looked down at himself he is wearing power armour, his hearts began beating rapidly when he saw the state of his armour what horrified him most of all is that the armour covering his body is now black and pink Tarkhan screamed “No-No!”
Tarkhan yelled “it is impossible! how did this happen!? When did it happen!?” As he raged he heard a voice, as it entered his ears his hearts felt like melting he began to feel calm “what is the matter dear brother? Why are you screaming?” Tarkhan looked up to the figure the voice came from there “w-what?”

His voice purred into his hears “calm yourself dear brother, you will reach battle soon and then you can laugh to your hearts content.” Tarkhan felt himself calming down he slammed his fist into his primary heart “Don’t listen! Don’t get drawn in!” The head of the unknown person turned slightly he saw an edge of a thin smile again his hearts twisted he wanted to obey. He wanted to even bow. “Why are you so agitated my champion? Is something wrong?” Tarkhan almost wanted to cry hearing his voice the emotions playing in his chest is confusing him, he did not want to displease whoever is in front of him. A dark thought entered his mind, this person is twisting him inside out. He needs to kill him now.

Tarkhan lowered his hand from his chest he clenched his hands he charged the figure obscured by the light. Tarkhan tried block out his voice, his voice is dangerous. As he reached closer to the person he needed to kill they turned smoothly. Tarkhan tried to cover his eyes as the light of the sun beamed into his eyes he squinted. Getting closer he could see that the person he is approaching is an Astartes. The frame fit even if he could not clearly see them. Knowing this fact it shocked him that an Astartes could bare such a voice.
Tarkhan swore “don’t think of the voice… focus!” Tarkhan smiled as he closed onto them, he could end his voice. He could end the strange emotions that clang to his hearts. Tarkhan got his fist ready he roared as he moved to strike the Astartes before him. The light burned his eyes as he got closer he watched as their long hair flowed in the wind he needed to stop whatever he is doing to him.

Tarkhan was about to strike the face of the Astartes until he felt a sharp pain in his chest a strange two handed blade has rammed him through the chest. The astartes whispered “be still brother…” Tarkhan looked up he gagged as the Astartes drove his blade in deeper walking towards him. The figure smiled thinly, Tarkhan wanted to close his eyes but couldn't the smile was too much.

Slowly it dawned on him that he wanted to attack… he wanted to attack something so perfect he no longer felt the pain from being impaled but his hearts ached with agony that he would attack this person. As the Astartes came closer for some reason he could not see his face, but for some reason he could see his eyes. Those strange eyes boring into him. Every inch of his eye is black, a pure darkness that seeks to consume and devour everything. Tarkhan went slack as he said “I-I am sorry…” The Astartes cocked his head slightly he held his blade with one hand. He dragged Tarkhan forward on the blade with the other, Tarkhan winced as the blade move through his chest. A part of him wanted to look away but those eyes held him place. He spoke softly “what do you have to apologize for dear brother?” The Astartes pushed Tarkhan off his blade, he tumbled to the ground with a thud. Tarkhan touched his chest, the pain is gone, the wound is gone.

Tarkhan staggered up as the figure turned away. Tarkhan stared at them, he bought his vision down at blade that impaled him, half of the sword is missing. In confusion Tarkhan touched his chest wondering what stabbed him, the blade was far more longer than that. Staring at the blade Tarkhan realised he was stuck in a impasse he could not attack this person he didn’t want to. Yet part of him knew if he let him speak it would be his doom.

Tarkhan edged closer he had to force himself to walk forward, but he stopped as the Astartes spoke again “Tarkhan.” Tarkhan seized up his body trembled searching for the reason why Tarkhan realised to his shock it’s in anticipation. “Tarkhan, I want to drown this world in entropy…. These people live such sad and bleak lives… how about we bring joy and colour to them?” Tarkhan clenched his eyes shut he could not help it. He slowly got to his knees his mouth trembled “Khan, what would you have me do?” Tarkhan trembled with a mix of horror and eagerness. He wanted to be ordered to be let loose.

The person before him spoke again “so ready and eager to do my will Tarkhan. I am happy you submitted.” Tarkhan shook his head “w-wait I haven’t…” the Astartes responded “haven’t what? But you have submitted to me? What’s with the confusion? Open your eyes dear brother! Your action shows submission! Now let us go and take this world!”

Tarkhan opened his eyes he saw the traitor staring down at him he weeped “I want to see him again… I-I submit..” The traitor smiled gently “oh? So you want to be my brother now? Good..” The traitor leaned back back, Tarkhan looked up to the white ceiling he wondered what he saw. He wondered who that person was. A strange need consumed him, he needed to meet that person again. He had to.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/18 19:36:42


Post by: shinros


Chapter 11

Tarkhan stared at his new armour repaired and ready to be used. The aquilla on the chest plate has been entirely removed, the lightning bolt of the white scars has been replaced with the sigil of the traitor legion and the paint….. the paint is now black and pink. He looked around the workshop, the lights were dim and there was a heavy smell of oil and copper permeating the room. The tech priest and his serfs are at tables tinkering away at gear or repairing devices. It disturbed Tarkhan to see them acting so… normal.
Tarkhan bought his eyes to his power armour again his mind raced he thought back to what he saw, when his mind drifts to that haze. To that person his hands shake, a sense of excitement grips him, he brought up his hands the sleeves of his dark robe swaying at the motion. He stared at his hands, he can’t control this sensation. This need to find him. Tarkhan tried to picture the eyes again, the eyes that was dark like the void of space. Those eyes full of hunger, thinking upon it again trying to remember it right now it feels like he is being sucked in. His hearts twist in joy with the thought that he wants it to happen, that he should not resist.

Tarkhan heard the doors of the workshop opening he bought his hands down and faced the door the one who tortured him strode into the room. Tarkhan stared at him, how he walks it seems that he is putting on the face of confidence he is trying to walk like he has control. He has lived long enough to see that it is a farce. Tarkhan stood impassively as the trait- no his new Khan, his new king Adelram walked towards him. He smiled “we had your armour fixed for you. How do you like it?”
Tarkhan turned his head slightly to his armour “I look at it and feel..” Tarkhan shook his head in confusion he did not know how to feel, all he wants is to find that person. The Astartes who.. Who was perfect… Tarkhan creased his brow staring at his Khan he can’t help but feel strange around him. A sense of foreboding gripped him.

Adelram grasped his shoulder, Tarkhan flinched “tell me Tarkhan I only worked upon you for a day. What made you so eager to be my brother? I look at you and it seems you are searching for something…” Tarkhan felt uncomfortable with Adelram touching him, staring at his face made him feel uneasy “I..don’t know what I am searching for…a person? A place?” His Khan gave him a gentle smile “well, you have plenty of time to find whatever you are looking for.”
Adelram removed his hand from his shoulder his cheerful face became dark, almost deathly “so tell me Tarkhan. Can you kill Ganzorig?” Tarkhan cast his gaze down slightly he thought of Ganzorig he searched for that bond he shared with him. His hand twitched as he continued to search his mind then drifted to the fact that he might get in the way of finding the person from his vision. As he thought on such a fact it bought horror and strangely anger to his mind. Tarkhan looked up to Adelram he grinned “I will kill him don’t worry. I will laugh as I plunge my blade into his heart.”
Tarkhan watched as his Khan’s face smoothly transitioned from his dark countenance to his cheerful outlook. “Very good, now get ready we are approaching a space station belonging to…” Adelram sighed slightly “Lord Commander Eidolon, I want to be prepared for anything.” Tarkhan inclined his head “I will be ready, don’t worry.”

Adelram smiled “good I will see you in a bit then.” Adelram turned away and left the room. Tarkhan faced his power armour as serf’s approached to help him put it on, Tarkhan tried to search for regret in his hearts or of any hint that he made a possible mistake. Tarkhan clenched his hands “I feel nothing…”

Izel sat in his chamber thinking a scowl played across his face, the plan did not work, the white scars simply diverted past the emperor’s children ship and made their way to wherever they are going. Izel stared at the orbs again. All of them are still consumed by darkness. Izel thought upon the words of the shadowseer, what could the Lord of sin do which will make him such a threat? Chaos can be whimsical but so far what he knows of him he has not done anything of great note.
Izel tapped his chin, it’s clear enough that he fellows the serpent but compared to others in the third legion he is still a child when playing and treating with the forces of chaos. The depravity he commits to others is neither grand or big in scale either. Izel lowered his hand from his chin he thought on the basics of the followers of the dark prince. They go to the extreme of whatever is important to them. That is what amuses their patron the most how far will they go to get what they want?
The normal occurance is that they go too far and end up dying. “The Aeldari are moving against him. So what will he do? What will he become which frightens the xeno’s so much?” Izel summoned an orb “let’s look at his defining point…” Izel searched the Lord of Sin’s past pulling at strands of time he picked and pulled. The orb then showed him an image of Zatos The Lord of Sin Adelram declaring the goal of the warband to get the attention of their father. Izel frowned “all of them want that, he is just chasing after his father in a different way… it can’t be that…I am not a god but if I was the one who thrists… that would be far too boring..”

Izel folded his arms “what could it be? He will do something extreme that should be clear enough. Something that will draw the attention of the god for a fraction of a second to place him on the path to glory…”
Izel sighed “perhaps I should just focus on killing him than focusing on what he might become?” Izel dismissed the orb as he began focusing on moves that would end the life of the Lord of Sin.
Adelram stood on the bridge next to the command throne, he could see through the ship screen the space station Valira. What surprised Adelram is the station looked refined, the plates of the station oddly shimmered in space and on various parts of the station stood daemonic statues with heads that looked bovine. Adelram bought his eyes to the docked ships numerous third legion ships lined the station. It was odd to him to see so many of them in one place.
Adelram mouthed slowly “so he is really gathering us?” Adelram felt a strange hope coiling in his breast that perhaps the days of the third being roving warbands might be coming to an end. Adelram bought his eyes to Lily she is staring at the screen at her command throne she looked up to him “They are asking for ship callsign and the one who leads the warband.”

Adelram swore under his breath “we haven’t named the ship have we?” Lily chuckled “indeed we haven’t, better think of one quickly.” Adelram mumbled “Attach the callsign Canticle of Sin to the ship. Also message that the one who leads is Lieutenant Adelram of the 11th company also known as the Lord of sin.” Lily nodded as she inputted the message. He decided to use his old rank since what he knows of Eidolon and those he surrounds himself with they still place stock on rank.
Lily stared at the screen she nodded after a moment “right we can approach.” Adelram smiled “right I will gather everyone we will see what Eidolon wants..”

Adelram stood at the docking bay hatch he could hear the ship locking with the station. He looked around he bought Asriel, Tarkhan, Silas, Marthas, Sebastian and oddly Marius was also here. Silas grumbled “we should of bought the cripple…” Adelram raised his eyebrow “May I ask why?” Silas shifted slightly he sighed “we about to meet our brothers again after a long time being separated. We should look imposing as possible. Considering Helbrutes are normally insane having one that is lucid and controllable is a boon.”

Marthas inclined his head “I agree with Silas even if we are in a poor position we should try and show strength.” Adelram shook his head in annoyance “it’s fine I also don’t personally care if my brothers need to puff their chests to show how important they are. In the end none of us are important we are wandering roving warbands without direction.” Asriel folded his arms “we will see what you think when we step onto the station.” Adelram frowned “I will remain resolute on my view Asriel.” Adelram watched Asriel wince when he called him by his name. It pleased him oddly enough.
Adelram looked over to Marius was standing in silence “do you have anything to say Marius?” Marius casually shrugged “So you don’t care?” Marius gave a curt nod in return. Adelram faced the doors again he heard a voice “Break a bone than blemish your name.” Everyone turned to face Tarkhan, Adelram said “what?” Tarkhan coughed slightly “you can put on a show or make yourself imposing but in the end what matters is your reputation and credibility. This… Eidolon would not call you here if you did not have the reputation or credibility to do whatever task he requires.”
Silas grunted “you just joined us.. What do you know? What do you know of the third?” Tarkhan shook his head smoothly “I know nothing but if I was a powerful king I would be more weary of the one who does not need to advertise who they are.” Marius released a low rumble, Adelram raised his eyebrow in surprise “so you agree with him Marius?”

Marius nodded, Sebastian spoke afterwards “deeds matter to the dark prince more than anything.” Silas scowled “fine! Don’t listen! We shall see!” Adelram faced the door again for some reason after Tarkhan’s words he feels more relaxed, more certain. Why should he care for what his brothers do? He is not them, let his deeds talk for him. He would not be here if Eidolon thought him to be unworthy. The light on the docking bay door chimed green, Adelram walked over and pushed the button the doors slid opened showing a corridor leading into the space station. Adelram took the first step forward he walked forward with confidence. Stepping onto the station he was in a large hall, silver and gold plates lined the walls, slaves hobbled around carrying trays covered with beverages and wine to Astartes.

Adelram looked around, some of the Astartes spared him a glance just for a moment then they went back to drinking on talking amongst themselves. Adelram shrugged he was about to take a step until the door in front of him opened. Everyone’s attention was brought to the door. Out of the darkness walked maidens wearing white gowns, their skin oiled each wore a golden mask.

They held baskets as they threw out flower petals that danced in the air. They formed a small corridor as an Astartes came walking out. Adelram assumed he is the leader, his face was like marble, oiled and smooth he also bore no hair on his scalp. Every second a black snake like tongue will flick out. Behind him were humans wearing golden masks with the rune of the third engraved on their forehead. They carried his purple cloak as he slowly walked into the hall.
A woman broke from the corridor and called out “Announcing Lord Salazar the Great! Salazar the beautiful! Praise be his name! Lord of the Perfect sons!” At once all the masked humans intoned his name at the same time. Adelram raised his eyebrow at Salazar who gave him a coy smile in return. Silas snorted at their name “pah! perfect sons..” he grumbled in annoyance.

After a moment a second Astartes walked out they had flowing black hair, piercing blue eyes their black and pink armour was covered in paintings using garish colours. His pink cloak is carried by masked attendants.
The masked woman announced again “Announcing Lord Vasili! The Artisan of the blade! Exalted champion of the Perfect sons! Praise be his name!” Again the corridor of people intoned his name. Vasili walked forward and stood next to Salazar. Adelram frowned he could see Vasili is sizing them up and going by his mocking smile he is finding them wanting.

Salazar gestured up with one hand the corridor collapsed behind him as the masked women walked in single file back into the darkness. All that remained of their entrance were those who held their capes and the woman who announced their names. Salazar turned his head toward her his voice was like a pur “well done, you announced us perfectly Taina.” Taina bowed deeply “thank you my lord your praise swells my heart.” The eyes of everyone in the hall were upon Salazar and Vasili, Silas grunted “told you we should of took Noxus…” Adelram shrugged “I made my decision. If he wants to announce himself so be it.” Adelram could see Salazar is now approaching until another door next to where he came from opened. All Adelram could hear is the sound of stomping, the sound of heavy boots slamming on the floor.

Even Salazar and Vasili are looking towards the door wondering who is now approaching. Out of the darkness came several terminators, their black and pink armour covered in jewels and iconography of the emperor’s children. The terminators held power halberds in hands as they made a corridor they thumped the hafts of their weapons on the ground they bellowed “Lord Flavius walks among you! Lord of Lords! Slayer of Champions! Ruler of the Rising Phoenixes! ” Adelram could not help but sigh wondering what necessitates such an entrance he wonders if Eidolon allows this because he simply finds it amusing?

Adelram stared at the doors as a Terminator wielding a more grandiose halberd came walking forward his armour is covered in Lapis Lazuli and other coloured gems. As he walked the corridor of the terminators collapsed behind him. They strode forwards, Adelram could clearly see they are approaching him. Salazar chuckled as he approached as well.

Adelram sighed “I see both of you want to say something?” Vasili hissed “Be more respectful! How da-” Salazar held his hand up “It’s alright my champion we are all brothers here save… two.” Adelram could see that he is eyeing Marthas and Tarkhan “They are third Salazar.” Salazar frowned his black tongue still whipping out like a snake “they wear the colours but they are not us. They never will be.”

Adelram scoffed “in the end it doesn't matter what you think in my eyes they are. Now are you here to insult my brothers? Or are we going to talk about something important?” Flavius took another step forward “he fancies himself a prince… “perfect sons” pah!. Salazar features contorted in fury “I am perfect brute! Those who follow me are perfect! While it’s clear…” Salazar points at both of them “that you two associate with mongrels!” Adelram folded his arms “you don’t even know me and you insult me and those who follow me?” Energy started to dance around his body “I won’t forgive that…” Flavius chuckled it sounded like a rumble through the vox of his helmet “how interesting? You are a witch? Tell me then which company are you from?” Adelram eyed Flavius “Lieutenant Adelram of the 11th company our company served under Lord commander Eidolon.” Flavius bobbed his head “interesting… where is your captain?” Adelram firmly responded “My captain is Augustus who has since ascended I lead now.”

Salazar raised his eyebrow “I knew you looked somewhat familiar can’t believe he achieved ascension…” Adelram waved his hand he did not care for their ranks all too much but since it looks like he will be seeing more of them he tried to keep pleasantries “What of you two? Your ranks?” Adelram wanted to sigh heavily as he saw Salazar puff out his chest slightly “Captain Salazar of the 24th company, My company served under Lord Commander Lucius…”
Adelram raised his eyebrow “so have you been in contact with the eternal one?” Salazar shook his head “as always we of the third have drifted apart.” Adelram chuckled “you mean we defragmented?” Salazard mumbled “if you want to put it in such words, yes.” Flavius tapped the haft of his weapon on the ground bringing his and Salazar’s attention to him “My turn I take it?” Adelram inclined his head, Flavius coughed slightly before announcing his rank “Captain Flavius of the 15th company I was also under Lord Commander Lucius.”
Adelram folded his arms “I see, now that introductions are in order I assume both of you were called by Eidolon?” Vasili barked at him “you mean lord commander!? You served under him how could you speak of him so casually!?” Adelram bought his eyes to Salazar “Does your champion have any manners?” Salazar shrugged “only to those he respects, he is a palatine blade afterall…”

Adelram was about to speak again until a Astartes approached them, iron tubes covered their gear and they spoke in a rasps “The soul-severed will see you now..” Salazar smiled “Ah! The reason why we have been called!” Flavius grunted, Adelram suddenly felt anxious. The Astartes gestured “please follow me….” Asriel spoke in a hushed tone to him “This is it..” Adelram nodded “Indeed it is..”

Their guide bought them through the halls of the station the further they walked in Adelram could tell the corruption grew far more intense. He could feel daemons pressing at his mind, cooing and even singing in his ears. Adelram looked over to Salazar who seems to be listening intently, Flavius is walking like nothing is going on. Their guide eventually brought them to large double doors. The Astartes turned “only the three of you will enter. The rest wait outside..” Salazar looked to his cape being held by his masked attendee’s he sighed “release my cape.” At once they edged back heads cast down as he cape flapped to the ground. Flavius snorted “I expected this….” Adelram turned his head slightly to his own group Marthas nodded “don’t worry we will be fine.” Adelram frowned “I am having flashbacks to our meeting with Abbadon…” Salazar’s eyes went wide “you… met with the warmaster?” Adelram faced the surprised Salazar “Yes, I did.” Salazar blinked “and you are still alive?”

Adelram responded his voice flat “yes I am.” Salazar looked forward towards the doors, Adelram could tell he is in utter shock. Their Astartes escort moved to the door he pushed the doors open slightly he turned “Please follow me.” Adelram along with Salazar and Flavius entered Eidolon’s sanctum.

As Adelram entered the hall it was circular in structure at the left and right of the hall were doors. Adelram also spotted that every inch of the walls were covered in soft silks along with that there is a strange music playing in the hall. Adelram could tell the throats that the song is coming from belongs to that of a daemon but nothing is in sight the song is simply permeating his mind. Looking upwards he finally saw him, his old Lord Commander.
Eidolon sat on a macabre throne that looked to be made from gold at various parts of the throne he saw twisted human faces moving in pure agony. His armour was an assortment of colours. Cables fed into his neck and the loose skin on his scalp had strands of white hair moving slightly over the cables.

Across his lap rested his thunder hammer staring at all of this flashes of the meeting with the warmaster creased Adelram’s mind. He hoped this would be different. Eidolon spoke his voice harsh with a slight buzz “Greetings brothers.” Salazar bowed slightly “Lord Commander.” Eidolon inclined his head “Salazar, it’s good of you to come.” Flavius inclined his head in turn “Thank you for inviting us here Lord Commander.” A thin smile played across Eidolon’s lips “respectful as always Flavius…”
Eidolon then bought his eyes to him, his opaque eyes bore into him Adelram held his ground and folded his arms “Greetings Eidolon.” Salazar’s eyes went wide with shock, Flavius shifted slightly. Eidolon gave a hoarse laugh “how interesting! You have changed...” Adelram nodded “Indeed I have. I had to do.”

Eidolon grinned “as we all have, looking at you Adelram I see a man who walked through hell itself.” Eidolon narrowed his eyes at him “looking at you now it seems you are still walking in it, I wonder? Where are you going?” Adelram spoke firmly “wherever my feet takes me Eidolon.” Eidolon smiled “I see, quite interesting I do wonder everyone who entered this station had such grandiose entrances. But not you? I wonder why?”

Adelram thought back to Tarkhan’s words he could see now that Eidolon is gauging him he mirrored his new champions words “Break a bone than blemish your name…” Eidolon raised his eyebrow “how interesting… I never heard such a saying.” Adelram smiled “well it’s chogorisian that’s why. I could put on a show to announce myself but I would rather my reputation and deeds speak for me that is something people will remember not a mere entrance or prancing about for my brothers. You would not call us here if we are not worth speaking to.”
Eidolon sat back in his chair “you have indeed changed… perhaps for the better.” Adelram smiled “I hope so considering you tried to purge me.” Adelram could see Salazar was about to pop a blood vessel. Eidolon returned his smile “Augustus decided otherwise and I can start to see why…” Eidolon gripped the arm of his throne “now unto business. Why I called you three here.” Eidolon looked to their escort “Olsen! Go retrieve the artifact!” Olsen bowed slightly before walking off to one of the side rooms.
Eidolon looked towards them “we are planning a large operation hence sending the various invitations to warbands of importance. Those who distinguish themselves will gain a… invitation to a fraternity.” Flavius took a step forward “so the rumors are true then?” Eidolon smiled “indeed they are, you will find out more if you do well in this task.” Adelram could see Flavius is now gripping his halberd tightly.

Adelram had know idea what he is talking about but he spoke up “I assume if we gain this invitation we gain access to more resources?” Eidolon nodded “Indeed from what I hear your warband has fallen on to some hard times.” Adelram chuckled “of course you would know about that…” Eidolon played with his thunder hammer slightly “Indeed, still you are young you require… guidance still. Most would die under such circumstances consider it a lesson.” Adelram nodded “I do consider it a lesson something I hope to never repeat again.”
Salazar bowed before speaking “Lord Commander, this fraternity I heard whispers of I hear all the prominent captains are part of it?” Eidolon bobbed his head “yes, including Lucius.” Adelram narrowed his eyes for a moment a strange need gripped him he had no idea why he asked this question “What of Fabius? Is he part of this group?” Eidolon frowned “Fabius is a strange one but I expect he will return when our Father spreads his wings over the galaxy.”
Adelram could not help but chuckle his master was a strange one, he is not one for groups either. After a moment Olsen came back holding a square object covered in a black cover. Olsen stood before Eidolon he bowed, he then faced the people gathered in the hall. Adelram could sense something familiar coming from the object held by Olsen but he was not sure what.

Eidolon nodded “Olsen remove the cover.” Olsen moved his hand to the black cover and threw it on the floor. Adelram saw a glass box and within it, floating inside shone a rune of Slaanesh. Adelram felt the power, it thundered in his mind the artifact wanted to be used it begged to be released. Adelram’s mouth felt dry the rune whispered to him that it would grant his deepest desires. Adelram ground his teeth slightly the more he stared at it the more familiar it felt. He tried to pick out the material it looked like marble and the rune was covered in jewels.
Flavius gasped “w-what is it?” Salazar groaned “I can feel the dark prince I-I..” Eidolon looked to Flavius and Salazar “Why don’t you ask Adelram?” Adelram blinked his eyes drawing away from the artifact “what? What do you mean?” Eidolon narrowed his eyes at him “the daemons whisper that you made this wonderful artifact and now the Phoenician requires it. It needs to be used for his sake.”

Salazar looked to the artifact and then to him “there is no way someone like him could make something of such… such beauty..” Adelram scowled at Salazar’s words, still he tried to remember his mind drifted. He thought of the marble and the jewellery it slowly dawned him as he said “Zatos…I made it on Zatos.”

Adelram stared at his work what he knows for sure it has been changed it’s been warped changed by an unknown hand. “See Adelram? You wove the shell and the dark prince has filled it with power. The Phoenician wants the artifact used on Califa our forces have secured the ritual site but we needed a component as decreed by our father.” Eidolon pointed, Adelram could see he is pointing at him “Father…. needs me?”

Eidolon nodded “indeed to use the full might of this artifact it will have to be placed on the ritual structure by your hands since you created it. Once the artifact has absorbed the power of the structure you shall unleash it.” Adelram furrowed his brow “what will it do when unleashed?”
Eidolon smiled “it will allow our father to spread his wings over this sector and those surrounding us.” Flavius and Salazar gasped in surprise, Salazar took a step forward “we could see him? Truly?” Eidolon responded “possibly or it might create a zone where we can control easily. In this day and age such things are important. I added the extra incentive distinguish yourselves and you will gain an invitation to an important fraternity on top of that as well.”

Adelram folded his arms “so tell me Eidolon when is this operation starting?” Eidolon gave him a dark smile “you will leave now, Olsen will take the artifact to the site with his ship and you will place it upon the structure from there all forces will defend the site until it’s ready to be unleashed. Coordinates are being sent to your ships at this very moment.”

Adelram smiled “very well I will get ready to leave.” Flavius bowed “so shall I this mission is to aid our father we would be foolish to deny that.” Salazar grinned “Indeed, I will not pass the chance to see perfection in the flesh.”
Eidolon nodded “you have your orders brothers remember I will be watching….” Salazar and Flavius turned to leave, Adelram followed as he left the hall he felt different compared to being ordered to Cadia by Abbadon. Instead of anger or even possibly fear he felt joy, he felt a surge of happiness building in his body. His father needs him, he needs him to do something. As he left the hall his hearts swelled in anticipation.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/18 19:37:05


Post by: shinros


OH BOY, I can't wait to get into the next few chapters!

I have been reading the chaos daemon codex in great detail.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/19 02:26:07


Post by: lliu


Nice! At least Eidolon is more subtle.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/19 02:42:41


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice! At least Eidolon is more subtle.


Yeah I got that from path of heaven and clone lord. Chris and Josh captured Eidolon well IMO.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/19 02:55:31


Post by: shinros


Chapter 12

Ranald stared at Rafael meditating, sweat creased his brow he wondered if he found it. He wondered if he found the beacon. Incense burned in the chamber runes of warding and the blood of holy men permeated the room giving the right environment for Rafael to search.
Rafael’s eyes suddenly flicked open he panted. He sat up the servo’s of his armour winding “I have found it.” Ranald nodded he gripped his thunder hammer tightly “good in the end we had to commit to unfortunately a exterminatus upon Zatos but the main cause, the beacon went missing as the lances poured upon the planet.”

Ranald knew it’s sicking presence he felt it in his mind the closer he got to it. The imperial guard supporting them fell to it’s lure and sided with the daemons their faces trapped in rapture singing praises to their new foul god. In turn the the losses proved too great hence the conclave of inquisitors agreed upon exterminatus.

Everyone in the brotherhood felt it, the beacon fleeing, seeming distant as the planet died. When Rafael returned they got to work divining it’s location before it could twist another planet, bringing corruption and heresy in its wake. Ranald narrowed his eyes at the Librarian “where is it Rafael?” Rafeal wiped his brow “it’s moving towards a planet called Califa.” Ranald nodded “Marshal the brotherhood! We must move quickly!” Rafael inclined his head “Yes Grandmaster I will ready our forces” Rafael made his way out of the room, Ranald steadied his breathing he closed his eyes as he told himself “we will stop it… we have to..” Adelram stood in the war room with everyone all of them look ready “we are making our way to Califa. We have coordinates of the ritual location. we will be making a defensive perimeter around the site.” Marthas nodded “very well, what I want to ask is whether the other warbands can be trusted.” Silas spoke up “I agree, they might seek to ruin us at crucial moment.”

Asriel shook his head “they won’t considering the Phoenician is involved.” Adelram inclined his head in Asriel’s direction “indeed so as Eidolon mentioned my father their faces so full of determination... I won’t even deny that I am also excited and either one of them dares get in our way… they will die.” Marius released a screech, Marthas smiled “indeed I am quite curious to see what this artifact does now. It’s quite amusing the dark prince has used something you made Adelram.”
Adelram scratched the back of his head “as was I, honestly a part of me thinks this is too convenient but I will not let this chance slip by considering it involves our father.” Adelram nodded “this operation is straightforward but expect the unexpected.” As the words left his mouth Lily’s voice came on the tonny “we are leaving the sea of souls and diving straight in battle. Battle stations! Quickly!” Adelram smiled “right everyone get ready! We will be taking the thunderhawk down!” Everyone made their way to leave the room save Tarkhan and Asriel. Tarkhan stopped for a second which surprised Adelram “Khan are you sure of this path?”

Adelram furrowed his brow “yes I am, what’s the problem?” Tarkhan shook his head “as you said this seems too convenient be wary for treachery.” Tarkhan left the room without another word. Asriel stood impassively “I agree with him be careful okay?” Adelram chuckled “so you are worried for me after you hate the fact that I refer you as Asriel?” Asriel frowned “well you seem committed after I told you it’s impossible but I just have to deal with it.” As Asriel was about to leave he started coughing heavily for several seconds. He wiped his mouth after it subsided “these coughs are quite annoying…” Adelram walked over frowning “are you alright?” Adelram spotted black phlegm lining Asriel’s hands, he wiped his hands with a cloth as he turned and smiled “I am fine. I don’t detect anything wrong.”
Adelram held his face to Asriel’s surprise “w-what are you doing?” Adelram stared at his face the colour of his cheeks is okay he forced open his mouth and narrowed his eyes. He released his head after a moment of looking “everything seems okay. You sure you have not detected anything?” Asriel nodded “I used biomancy I did not find anything wrong with my body.”

Adelram mumbled “alright, be careful though.” Asriel frowned “you are worrying too much it’s nothing.” Asriel left the room without another word. After watching Asriel’s coughing episode he suddenly felt anxious.
Elvan Farseer of the craftworld Ulthwe stood in the nearby forest overlooking the cursed structure. Rangers have scouted the area, Mon-keigh who worship the one who thirsts are standing watch as the skies above burn due to the void battle. Elvan stood impassively thinking of how to prevent that future from coming to pass. They had to wait for the premature Lord of Sin to appear then they will move. Elvan caught the sound of laughing he spoke his voice serene “Shadowseer Shadedancer is the troupe ready?” Shadedancer flipped over him and stood in front of him “everything is in place the stage has been damaged but the show can end.” Elvan sighed “we should of killed the mon-keigh who bows to the raven perhaps fate would not have veered of course.” The shadow seer waved her finger in disagreement “killing him may have caused even further damage to the stage.”

Elvan gripped his staff, his black robes bellowed in the wind “perhaps, at least the mon-keigh that bow to the feet of the emperor will be of use to us.” Shadedancer twirled her rod “yes the knights in silver and those who wear the lightning bolt will be here soon.” Elvan narrowed his eyes at the structure “I have weaved a shadow over us to hide the webway portal and our forces we will move as the mon-keigh begin bleeding themselves on the blades of those who worship she who thirsts.”
Shadedancer inclined her head “a sound part to this play, I will get ready for my role.” A multicoloured mist consumed the shadowseer as her laughter died on Elvan’s ears. Elvan curled his lips in disgust as he stared at the mon-keigh surrounding the structure “to kneel the one who thirsts just watching them sickens me…”

The thunderhawk shook as it moved through the void, Adelram is confident they will make it as their ships poured out of the void the imperial navy were placed on the defense granting a reprieve to the emperor children forces that held the site. Adelram bought his eyes to Asriel again he is concerned especially with the black phlegm he spotted.

Adelram sighed he needed to focus on the battle he looked to everyone on the thunderhawk. Everyone is here save Silas he is going to teleport down at the right moment with the terminators. The rest of the warband, what is left of it are taking thunderhawks down. The thunderhawk rocked heavily until after several minutes he felt the thunderhawk landing with a thud. Asriel hopped out of his seat as the bay doors opened, everyone drew their weapons. Adelram placed his helmet on and stared at Sebastian, Tarkhan, Marius, Asriel and Marthas “this is it, we hold until the artifact can be unleashed.” Marius released a rumble of approval, Adelram smiled “I agree let’s hope we get to kill followers of the false emperor.”

Adelram stepped out of the thunderhawk, in the distance he saw a ruined city, they stood in open plains surrounded with several patches of forests. Adelram looked up to the structure it looked like a plain statue holding his hands up to the sky. The statue itself bore no features, no carved hair at most the frame is that of a man.

Adelram stared at the Astartes surrounding the structure their armour bore gashes and burns through war. One approached him Adelram guessed he is the leader his armour was more garish in colouration as he held a sonic blaster. His helmet and power armour is covered in brass tubes he inclined his head towards Marius “greetings it’s good to meet with the other... Marius.” Marius released a strange sound that Adelram guessed to be a sigh, Adelram folded his arms “and you are?”
The noise marine nodded “I am Jalen our warband took control of the site per the Lord Commander’s orders. The imperials were not expecting our attack we held against PDF forces but we expect reinforcements to come in time.” Adelram nodded “I see, Eidolon has sent several warbands to aid you. Olsen should be coming with what we need to get started.” As Adelram said those words more thunderhawks pierced the clouds. Jalen chuckled “I see… this is good I will prepare my forces.” Jalen walked away clearly happy with the reinforcements that are now coming down, Adelram continued to stare at the thunderhawks.

They surrounded the structure as they landed out came the rest of his forces along with Salazar, Flavius and Olsen’s warbands. Adelram faced Marius “I want your kakophoni to aid in forming the defensive perimeter.” Marius released a rumble of acknowledgement as he walked off towards his kakophoni. Adelram bought his eyes to Marthas “I want you to lead the temple forces since the remainder of the warband is of your group.” Marthas bowed slightly “It shall be done.”
As Marthas walked off to gather their forces he stared at the reminder “Tarkhan, Sebastian and Asriel. You will be my guards.” Asriel waved his blade around he nodded “right.” Sebastian simply gave him silence as he normally does. Tarkhan spoke softly “Khan I have a bad feeling about this.” Adelram frowned “may I ask why?”

Tarkhan rested his hand on the pommel of his blade “this artifact it has been touched by the Khagan. You will have no idea what it will do to you.” Adelram folded his arms “Khagan? Do you refer to the dark prince?” Tarkhan nodded slowly “I have been doing some thinking, this yaksha… no god the more I think of him and meditate on him I have come to see he is the king of all kings.” Adelram mused on Tarkhan’s words “I will be alert don’t worry.” Tarkhan responded his tone flat “that is all I ask.”
Flavius, Salazar and Olsen walked out of their thunderhawks towards the structure. Adelram and those with him walked up to it. Flavius was surrounded by his terminators, Salazar had groups of Astartes baring sabre’s being lead by his Champion Vasili. Salazar scowled “how can such a disgusting statue bare something touched by the dark prince himself!?” Flavius grunted “perhaps once the artifact has joined with the statue it might become more beautiful?” Salazar tapped his chin “good point. I never knew you had a finer taste…”
Olsen spoke his voice firm “focus on the task set by the lord commander!” Salazar tutted, Flavius stood at attention.

Olsen held the artifact case it is covered in the black cloth like before. His noise marines stood at attention one was holding his sonic blaster. Olsen faced Adelram “place the artifact on the structure…” Adelram walked towards Olsen he pulled off the black cover the light erupted from the glass case. Upon seeing it again everyone gasped or groaned. Adelram’s hands were shaking as he lifted the lid off the case. The light beamed into his eyes, the rune screamed in his mind to be used. To be unleashed. Adelram grit his teeth as he reached down to it. Grasping the rune for some reason he felt an intense heat building in his fingers. He picked it up slowly with both hands.

Adelram gulped he blinked for a moment he thought he saw a palace. Winding purple and pink spires that reached unnatural skies. A voice beckoned him to go, to drop everything and reach it. Adelram blinked again he saw purple eyes leering at him the black slits boring into him along with that he heard snarling. Adelram almost shuddered in fear upon hearing the snarl.

He shook his head as he faced the statue the purple eyes vanished along with the snarl as he offered up the artifact. As the artifact began floating away from his hands he blinked and saw a shadow cover him and a roar of laughter. Adelram blinked one more time the shadow vanished and he saw countless stars filling his vision. Adelram mouthed slowly “its so…. beautiful...” Adelram blinked again the image vanished the artifact has left his hands and is now hovering the hands of the statue.
Adelram flexed his hands “that was… strange.” Tarkhan walked up to him “are you alright?” Adelram nodded “I am fine.” Adelram moved his hands around again “at least I think so…” Asriel frowned “you acted like you saw something what did you see Adelram?” As Asriel spoke Salazar scowled “you treat with slaves Adelram? why does he not call you lord? He looks ugly to boot I am surprised you haven’t killed him..”

Adelram turned to face Salazar for some reason fury built in his body he hissed “shut up Salazar focus on your people…” Olsen shook his head “enough! We prepared look to the skies!” Adelram looked up the skies are now in upheaval people lightning wreathed in the skies. Flavius chuckled “it seems it’s starting…” Olsen faced his noise marines, the one that held his sonic blaster handed him his weapon. He readied it while shouting “we hold until the artifact is ready!” Adelram looked up to the statue to his shock the face, the very body of the statue is now shifting. Adelram spotted that the face is slowing gaining features “what is going on?” said Adelram. Adelram unsheathed his blade he faced those that are with him “As Olsen said we hold until whatever the artifact is doing finishes it’s business.”

Ganzorig stood in the docking bay he boarded the thunderhawk with Batu. Ganzorig placed his helmet on his head “that took far too long but we are here. Still all our enemies are in one place.” Batu nodded he creased his brow as the thunderhawk doors closed “whatever the traitors are doing we have to stop. I can feel the warp coiling.”

Ganzorig smiled “we will Batu they will not expect what is coming their way. The company is mainly made up of inceptors and reivers.” Batu inclined his head “I recall half the company is made of the inceptors.” Ganzorig gripped a handle and maglocked his boots as the thunderhawk as it set off “indeed, they should be falling upon the traitors at this very moment.” Ganzorig held the bar tightly as the thunderhawk started to move a part of him wished Tarkhan was here but it was through his sacrifice that they could get here intact even if they were delayed. Ganzorig placed his other hand to his weapon and gripped the handle of his dao he said quietly to himself “we will take their heads for the Emperor…”

Marius stood on the perimeter with his noise marines the song is reaching a crescendo it excited him. He looked up to the skies the skies turning, dancing with the song of the dark prince. Marius caught an abnormal sound coming from the sky, something that should not be. Those that wish to stop the song, Marius readied his sonic blaster he hissed “I will not allow it. It’s so close now even he wishes to distort the song. This cannot be allowed… he does not see the designs the dark prince wants for him...” Out of the skies like a lightning bolt dropped white figures they shot towards them holding twin bolters. Out of the surrounding forest darted white figures wearing skull masks that released deathly screeches, all across the defensive perimeter surrounding the statue emperor’s children’s Astartes fired their weapons up at the skies. Marius released a rumble of pure rage, the white scars the one’s wearing the skull masks are adding their disgusting cries to the song. Marius readied his sonic blaster he released a deathly wail with his noise marines.

The sonic waves crashed into the white scars charging towards them rupturing their armour, the sound waves cracked the ground as they wailed and fired their sonic blasters. A white scar fired their bolt pistol at him the shell smacked into Marius’ pauldron he roared as pain surged in his shoulder “I have waited so long the song will reach it’s end!” Marius levelled his sonic blaster at the skull faced white scar that shot him he screeched as he fired his gun his armour cracking, blood spilled from the cracks as he tumbled to the floor.
Marius kept firing until a flash of light erupted in front of him he covered his eyes, as the light died down he heard a shout “we are the hammer!” Marius grunted in frustration “why are they here!?” Marius scowled so many wish to disrupt the song, the light died and what stood before him were Astartes in silver armour, their helms bore burning blue lenses and they wielded swords that glowed with a soft blue light. They also bore a stormbolter on the other hand.

They charged giving the skull masked white scars breathing room they fired their stormbolters, the bolter shells cracked into many who manned the line. From the back of their line emperor children Astartes who wielded sabre’s charged into combat to stop them reaching the line. Marius continued to fire at those who approach but the new arrivals have drawn fire away from the flies above. They began picking at weak points on the perimeter. Marius narrowed his eyes if he focused they can hold the song has to reach it’s end like it’s meant to, after a moment Marius heard laughter at the back of his mind. A chilling laughter, Marius cursed in anger. Marthas cracked the head of another white scar, his weapon danced between the skull faced Astartes he strangely found them interesting they wore a lighter version of power armour, along with the death mask and screams. Marthas could see those that remained of the temple were handling themselves well with the covering fire of the other warbands they can pick at anyone who tries to get close to the perimeter.

As Marthas killed another white scar light burned into his eyes. He instinctively covered them as he then heard shouts for the emperor. As the light died, Astartes with silver armour charged at them with close combat weapons. They began cutting through Astartes and blasting those on the perimeter with stormbolters.

One of them approached Marthas, he readied Eligos as he charged into them the Astartes hissed “the grey knights will purge all that bears the mark of chaos!” Marthas narrowed his eyes “another who defends that pathetic wall…” Marthas bought down his weapon on the grey knight they smoothly dodged as twisted to his side. The grey knight impaled him in the side with his blade Marthas roared in pain.The grey knight removed the blade and moved to make a killing stroke as his blade moved towards him another flash of light consumed his eyes. After a second he heard a gurgle and then a thud to the ground. The light died revealing Silas who has imapled the grey knight with his power sword he grunted “grey knights turning up here? The odds..”

Marthas wheezed slightly “so you came?” Silas nodded “soon as I saw the ship we came down. We can’t mess around considering they have turned up.” Marthas gripped his side he steadied his breathing as his body got to work healing the wound. Silas gripped his twin-linked bolter “we will have our work cut out for us.”

Marthas nodded in agreement “we do, but we have to hold.” Marthas looked up the upheaval in the skies. It is getting worse or perhaps better in their case. As the pain from the wound died Marthas heard laughter in his mind he swept his eyes over the battlefield “what was that?”
Adelram gripped his blade in frustration he could sense them “white scars and grey knights…” Asriel nodded “it will be a hard fight.” Adelram looked up as the skies danced with energy. “It will be but we have to win.” Adelram looked over to Tarkhan who seemed slightly on edge “is something wrong?” Tarkhan nodded slowly “in a manner of speaking, I am watching my brothers die and I feel nothing. It’s odd.” Adelram smiled “because they are not your brothers anymore.”
Tarkhan gripped his weapon tightly “indeed they are not, he saw to that.” Adelram raised his eyebrow “he?” Tarkhan shook his head “do not worry, let us focus on the battle.” Adelram shrugged “very well.” Adelram then heard a cough he looked over to Asriel’s direction he is coughing harshly “Asriel?” Asriel nodded slowly as the coughing subsided “I am fine. I am okay… I think.”

Adelram felt anxious he spotted a bit of black phelgm on the floor. A part of him felt he is not okay, after the battle is done he will do checks on him. Even if he has to force Asriel to do them. Adelram then heard laughter a cold strange laughter “did anyone hear that?” Flavius nodded in acknowledgement “I did… what is that?” Salazar frowned “the laughter is disgusting if I find the source I will end it..”
Olsen readied his sonic blaster “be on alert, it might be an ambush.” Adelram readied his weapon he ignited his blade, eldritch fire flowed through it. He steadied his breathing, he eyed his surroundings he caught a shimmer. Adelram launched a wave of telekinetic energy sending whatever was in that area flying after a second Adelram heard bones cracking as something hit the ground.

The shimmering surrounded them as green armoured Aeldari appeared, Adelram swore “Aeldari!” The striking scorpions lunged at them with whirling chainblades. The attack caught several Astartes off guard, the scorpions were like insects darting in and with a swift flick of their wrists tore apart gorgets with their chanswords.

Adelram impaled one and crushed another with telekinesis. Flavius laughed along with his terminators as they killed the striking scorpions and Salazar drew his sabre along with his champion they went to work matching the movements of the striking scorpions striking them down one at a time.
As they were whittling down their numbers light erupted, Adelram covered his eyes he heard a deep rumbling voice “we are the hammer!” As the light died he saw a group of terminators they shone with a blue brilliance, the one Adelram assumed the leader wielded a thunder hammer his armour is far more elaborate. The second in command bore a staff. The rest of the terminators wielded stormbolters and force swords. The grey knight bearing the thunder hammer shouted “kill the heretics! Tear down the edifice of chaos!” They charged the terminators began tearing into their forces. Adelram swore. The whole area surrounding the statue has fallen into a bedlam of violence as the emperor’s children clashed with the Aeldari and loyalist forces.

Adelram looked to his heads up display Marthas name is blinking, Adelram blinked to open the channel he heard the sounds of gunfire and screams. Marthas spoke his voice hoarse “Aeldari are leaping over the line! Some white scars are breaking through at weak points! Forces are incoming!”
Adelram responded “we have Aeldari ambushing us along with grey knight terminators! Do what you can! We have to hold!” Marthas voice buzzed through the vox “acknowledged!”
Adelram boughts his eyes to a terminator that was now charging towards him he readied his guard as he swung his force weapon. As Adelram blocked each blow was heavy. His guard is just holding. The relentless attacks went on the terminator is breaking through his guard. Adelram began to hear laughter as the fight went on it grew louder and louder until he felt a sharp pain at the back of his knee.

Adelram sagged to one knee which caused the terminator to smash his force sword aside. Adelram looked behind him slightly to see an Aeldari in strange clothes they wore featureless masks along with multi-colored clothing. They danced through the emperor’s children giving the grey knights the opportunity to kill them. Small cuts or distractions. Adelram looked forward as the grey knight raised his blade to strike, Adelram then heard Asriel shouting “No! I won’t let you!” He charged the terminator darkness dancing around his blade he drove his blade into the side of the terminator. The grey knight grunted he acted like a fly has entered his vision he smacked Asriel aside with his other hand sending him flying, he crashed to the ground with a thud. Asriel’s actions distracted the grey knight for a second, Adelram tried to rise he got to his feet until he felt another surge of pain on the back of his other leg the laughter continued to echo in his mind. Adelram breathing increased until at the side of his vision he saw a flower petal. A pink flower petal. At once the laughter stopped, he looked up to see the blade coming down at him in slow motion.

A black shadow crashed on top of the terminator crushing him instantly. Adelram blinked “w-what?” Adelram looked at the thing that fell before him. It stood on somewhat hind legs, it wore strange armour that seemed similar to Astartes design on its chest and shoulders. Every inch of its body is covered in white fur that shimmered. The being’s head turned slightly revealing the head of a wolf with piercing purple eyes along with a black slit going downwards. It gave an unnatural grin, the grin was so familiar, Adelram shook his head “n-no… I already said goodbye…. W-Why are you here!?” he cried out. It chuckled which made the hairs on Adelram’s skin stand on end “I ascended, I was found worthy and now she sent us to aid you.” Adelram shook his head in disbelief “it seems you were right… I was wrong Jedrick…”

Jedrick smiled showing his fangs he summoned a giant ornate axe and leapt upon the laughing Aeldari hacking, biting and devouring them. Adelram watched in awe as he moved like lighting through the Aeldari tearing them to pieces. Seeing this grey knight terminators converged on Jedrick.
Another shadow flew over head it landed on top of another terminator as blood splashed out of the terminator it shimmered. Adelram staggered to his feet “Captain!?” His captain whipped his blade out cutting another terminator in half. He grinned at him “forces seek to divert what the dark prince wants. We are here to ensure what he wants comes to pass.”

Sebastian stabbed a striking scorpion he ran over to him covering him as he collected himself. Sebastian gave him a curt nod, he looked up to Augustus. His captain held his grin “you are far more better now aren’t you Sebastian.” The grin on Sebastian’s features pinched upwards “indeed I am.”
Adelram looked over to Asriel he is staggering up from the ground, his wounds are slowly healing. Adelram smiled “we have a chance!” Adelram moved to pick up his blade he furrowed his brow to see that his sword is now broken. He sheathed it “I don’t exactly need a weapon…”
Adelram readied both hands he released a gout of purple fire at a terminator incinerating him. Above white scars wearing strange jetpacks fired their bolters downwards. Augustus shot up to the skies swatting them out from the skies like bugs. Adelram narrowed his vision at the terminator with the thunder hammer and the one wielding the staff. Both of them together were like a storm anything that approached or got in their way were incinerated or smashed asunder.

Adelram released a wave of purple mist at them, the psyker who wielded the staff raised a strange barrier that caused the mist to dissipate on contact. Adelram cursed, he looked up to the statue to his shock the statue now has flowing hair and the features were androgynous he nodded he had a good feeling the artifact was almost ready.

Adelram looked over to Sebastian “cover me while I focus on those two!” Sebastian nodded “very well.” Adelram continued his psychic onslaught, the grey knights slowly approached after each psychic barrage. Valisi tried to approach from the side, the thunder hammer wielding terminator noticed this, Valisi struck him but he only sparked his armour. The grey knight roared “I grandmaster Ranald will smite you heretic!” Adelram watched as Ranald drove his thunder hammer downwards, Valisi had no time to dodge as his body was caved in. Salazar hissed “how dare you!” as he impaled an Aeldari. Adelram chuckled “so much for perfect sons…” Adelram looked up to Augustus “Captain! Take out the librarian! The one with the staff!” His captain looked down he saw the librarian he charged downwards like a comet. The librarian looked up, Ranald shouted “Careful Rafael!” Adelram smiled he is too late he is so focused on defending against his attacks he forget about his captain above. As Augustus was about to make impact a multicolored mist surrounded Ranald and Rafael.

It caused Augustus to stop his assault he hissed as he edged back slightly in the air “Cursed Aeldari! I will send your souls to the dark prince!” As the mist dissipated Adelram spotted a Eldar carrying a strange rod, twirling it in her hands and another eldar in black robes holding a staff. They stood with Ranald and Rafael. Ranald grunted “xenos… what are you doing here?” The Eldar is black robes shook his head “the stage is being destroyed. We must stop him here.” Rafael gripped his staff “stop who eldar?” Adelram eyes went wide as the eldar gestured his staff to him. “If he uses that abominable artifact the ramifications will be horrendous he must be stopped here.” Ranald snorted “we aimed to destroy the artifact anyway xenos and kill any heretics along with their daemon allies.” The Aeldari inclined his head “we will aid you.” The black robed Aeldari released a gout of electricity. It took all of Aeldram’s might to block the attack. The eldar twirling the rod danced towards sebastian.

Both terminators charged. Augustus roared “hound! Stop them! He cannot die!” Like a bolt of electricity Jedrick bound past Adelram. He opened his jaws grabbing the eldar with the rod in his mouth. Adelram watched Jedrick devour the Aeldari a crunching sound erupting from his mouth. The black robed eldar shouted “Shadedancer!”

Jedrick gulped while smiling “I will devour you too…”

Tarkhan speared an Aeldari with his sword he kicked them back. He could see Adelram is supported by two yaksha. The one that looked like a wolf devoured the one with a rod. Staring at him he felt familiar he got the sense that Adelram would be fine with him there. Tarkhan looked out in the distance, two white scars were charging forward towards Adelram’s position. He cannot allow them to reach them. He charged as he closed in on them as he drew in their features his hearts slowed. He recognised them even though they are wearing helmets. Tarkhan slowly stopped he mouthed “Batu….Ganzorig…” He called out “so we meet again!” Both of them slowed their charge. Tarkhan could see Batu shaking his head in clear disbelief “it’s impossible! Why!?”

Tarkhan waved his dao slightly “truth is before you Batu. It is your duty to kill me just as it’s mine to find him.” Ganzorig took a heavy step forward “I knew I should of decided differently! I knew it!” Tarkahn shook his head “you made the right decision. If you did not I would not see the Khan I am meant to serve.” Batu shouted “how dare you!? They are traitors! Heretics! They bow to yaksha! You spit on the name of Jaghati! You spit on the name of the white scars!”

Tarkhan frowned he tried to muster regret, he couldn't as he thought they would get in the way of seeking his Khan. Tarkhan pointed his dao at both of them “take another step you die.” Ganzorig shook his head “you a traitor…?” Ganzorig readied his weapon “you will get a traitors death!”
Batu readied his staff “as my Khan said, you will get a traitor’s death..” Batu raised his hand lightning flicked out. Tarkhan frowned as he darted forward, his speed surprised Batu he easily dodged the lightning attack. Batu fired again, Tarkhan dodged to the side again he took a large step inwards towards Batu. His dao flicked out removing his hand that he fired the lightning bolts with. He then bought his blade into his gorget pushing in deeply. With a flick Batu’s head came off. His body sagged to the ground. Ganzorig took a step back in surprise“you killed him? So easily!? I heard you were friends! Brothers!” Tarkhan flexed his hand since bowing to Khagan he has found that he moves far more faster than before. He smiled as he looked down at Batu’s corpse, again he felt nothing. He felt nothing save satisfaction.

Ganzorig roared as his charged him dao held high, Tarkhan dodged as he bought his blade downwards. Tarkhan wanted to end this quickly he had to check on Adelram. Tarkhan spoke smoothly “Ganzorig, know that as I kill you now when we sparred I was not going all out. Only one has ever done it and a part of me wants to fight him again.” Ganzorig shouted “shut up traitor!” Tarkhan frowned he stepped in close to Ganzorig, Tarkhan made a rapid feint to bring up his guard in one direction. Tarkhan then maneuvered his blade to the other side like lightning cleanly taking off the head of Ganzorig.

Ganzorig’s head flopped to the floor Tarkahn held his frown he did not laugh like he did with Jedrick when he fought him. Tarkhan heard footsteps he turned with his blade ready, he lowered it when he saw it’s an emperor’s children Astartes he looked to be from another warband most likely Salazar’s. He looked at Ganzorig and then back up to him “are you a palatine blade?” Tarkhan responded “no.” he said flatly. The Astartes brow furrowed when he heard his accent he then asked “then how did you do that technique?” Tarkhan cocked his head to one side “what technique are you talking about?” The member of the perfects sons explained “you killed that loyalist with a Maru Skara or in other words the killing stroke! Only the best of palatine blades could do it!” Tarkhan shrugged “I merely spent majority of my time practicing. That’s it.” Tarkhan picked up the heads of Batu and Ganzorig, Adelram would most likely want to seem them. “Now I must go to my Khan. I am glad you enjoyed whatever technique I did.”
Tarkhan walked away from the perfect son without another word.

Adelram stared at Jedrick devouring the black robed eldar greedily, Asriel and Sebastian stood with him watching. Their allies converged on the last two terminators Ranald and Rafael. Jedrick bound towards Ranald as he finished his meal while Augustus gave his whole attention to Rafael. Augustus speared his blade towards Rafael, he tried to raise a shield but his sword cracked right through it impaling the the Librarian. He sagged on the blade as Augustus casually threw him aside.
Ranald waved his hammer around trying to hit Jedrick, but to Adelram it was like he was playing with food. Jedrick dodged around Ranald bringing his axe up he then split him in half. Adelram watched Jedrick smiled “far too easy..” his voice echoed.
Olsen blasted a Aeldari as he walked towards him “the artifact almost looks ready.” Augustus smiled “you are indeed right…” Flavius came walking to the statue along with Salazar. Flavius laughed “the enemy is breaking! We will easily hold!” Jedrick growled “thanks to us meat.” Flavius shifted slightly “I see...”

Adelram walked towards Jedrick and Augustus “so tell me why I cannot die? I know I meant to unleash the artifact but there is more to it? Isn't there?” Jedrick smiled “of course there is. We shall explain once everyone is here…” Adelram raised his eyebrow “everyone?” Augustus nodded “indeed, they are coming now…”

Adelram spotted Tarkhan carrying two heads, now that he thought about it he vanished when the Aeldari attacked, Adelram crossed his arms “Tarkhan.” Tarkhan inclined his head as he showed him the two heads “Khan, I have come to show you the heads of my old Khan and Batu the stormseer.” Adelram smiled “well done, they look to be the the leaders as well. Did you have any trouble?” Tarkhan spoke his voice flat “no. not all.” Adelram raised his eyebrow “really?”
Tarkhan bobbed his head “really.” Adelram folded his arms “very well…” Adelram pulled out his broken blade “our battle was hard until my old champion and captain turned up.” Tarkhan gasped in shock “your s-sword..” Adelram furrowed his brow “what about it?” Tarkhan shook his head “Nothing… don’t worry about it.”

Adelram sighed he looked to Sebastian and Asriel, both seem worn down but alive. Out in the distance he saw Marthas, Silas and Marius walking towards him. As they approached Marthas announced to him “the enemy forces are breaking, whatever you done here seems to have affected them greatly.” Adelram nodded “I see, oh and Marthas? Why don’t you say hello to Jedrick?” Marthas turned along with Silas, Marthas’ eyes went wide “what? H-he ascended?” Silas shook his head “unbelievable!” Jedrick merely grinned as always, Marius overall does not seem to care.
Adelram sighed “right everyone is here. What’s next?” Augustus looked up to the statue “it seems it is ready… tell me Adelram. How much are you willing to give for this operation?” Adelram raised his eyebrow “that’s and odd question… considering our father is involved… everything.”
Olsen growled “what sort of question is that!? He will do has Eidolon commanded!” Augustus scowled “be silent! All of you are side actors!” Olsen stepped back nervously. Salazar hissed “what do you meant side actors!?” Flavius tapped the haft of his halberd on the ground “we all fought to protect that artifact!” Jedrick growled “so blind and foolish… speak further and I will devour you!”

Adelram smiled as Salazar and Flavius grumbled in silence. Augustus gestured upwards the rune floated from the hands of the statue to Augustus it floated in his hand. Adelram stared at the rune that now shone with a brilliant light. Asriel smiled “such… a warm light.” Adelram smiled he oddly felt warm as well even though he wore power armour.

Adelram mouthed slowly “so what am I meant to do?” Augustus smiled “bring up your hands and open them” Adelram bought up his hands and opened them as per instructed by Augustus he pushed the rune towards him. As the rune reached his open hands he stared at it. The rune whispered that it would grant his desires whatever he wants he could have. Adelram gulped “what do I do?”

Jedrick scratched his ear with a talon “we are here to protect your choice.” Augustus nodded “indeed, you could follow the whims of Eidolon… our father instructed him to do this. Or...” Adelram furrowed his brow “or… what?” Jedrick grinned “apotheosis…” Salazar shouted “don’t you dare!”
Augustus face changed into a fixature of fury he roared “silence!” Salazar bit his lip. Adelram looked around he could see everyone is now anxious. All the Astartes are now staring at him. Adelram chuckled “it’s easy… I wish for my father’s will to be done. I don’t want to become a neverborn.” Silas grunted in approval “good you made the right choice.” Marthas smiled “I agree with Silas, the opportunities provided if you do what Eidolon asked of us will be fruitful.”

Jedrick scratched his ear with one of his feet “even it kills you?” Adelram blinked “what? What do you mean?” Jedrick smiled “if you do what Eidolon wants the resulting energies will kill you. Your father will get his new playground but you will die in order for it to happen.” Asriel shouted “No! Pick Apotheosis! Don’t you dare pick the other option!” Flavius growled “be silent human! It’s an honour for your life to be used by the Phoenician!” Adelram could see by Asriel’s features he is in utter conflict. “Adelram… please don’t…” Silas tutted “don’t get in the way of what our father wants! You of all people should know that! Hurry and do his will Adelram!” Marthas looked to Silas for a moment and then to him “Silas is right, it’s what you always wanted. Beleth… please.. Don’t get in the way.” Asriel began panting “I-I know his will is important but I don’t want Adelram to die!” Adelram could see Asriel is shaking perhaps he does exist underneath even with what his father has done to him.

Adelram began breathing slowly “well father praise me if I do this?” Augustus nodded “yes as you die he will.” Adelram looked up to Jedrick “he speaks true?” Jedrick nodded “aye the starlight king speaks the truth.” Adelram looked to Marius “do you have an opinion?” Marius silently shook his head. Adelram bought his eyes to Sebastian who merely shrugged.

Tarkahn interjected “I have an opinion.” Adelram raised his eyebrow “you do?” Tarkhan nodded as he casually threw the heads aside “don’t pick either option. Those two will protect your choice, to me this sounds like a trap to limit you completely. You die? Your path ends, your father might praise you for a moment and then forget you. You ascend? You become a blunt instrument of the Khagan.” Adelram blinked a part of him actually considered Tarkhan’s words “I….” Silas growled “shut up white scar! This is the business of the third!”
Tarkhan shook his head “Khan, I feel there is more to you than meets the eye. If you choose either of those options that potential will end.” Asriel looked to Tarkhan “I agree with him! Don’t pick either!” Adelram shouted “enough! I will do my father’s will! Augustus how do I release the energy for father?” Augutus smiled “well..” Asriel cried out he ran over grabbing his robes “I won’t let you! I-I-”

Adelram frowned he pushed him back slightly with telekinesis as Asriel fell to the ground he started to harshly cough again. He continued to cough black phlegm lined the floor. Asriel began panting as he then vomited black ichor on the ground. Asriel sagged to the ground his body flinching.
Adelram was about to move, Jedrick shouted “Don’t move! Be careful with the artifact!” Adelram started to tremble slightly “w-what happened!?” Adelram looked up to Augustus “what is wrong with him!?” Augustus frowned “father forbade me to say unfortunately…” Tarkhan walked over to Asriel he picked him. As Tarkhan held him he twitched in his arms. Adelram shouted “bring him over!” Tarkhan bought Asriel over, black ichor lined his mouth.
Adelram frowned he looked to Jedrick “if Augustus can’t tell me… Jedrick! What is wrong with him!?” Jedrick scratched his ear “he is dying of course. His soul is crumbling in on itself.” Adelram blinked “what!? How!? When!?” Jedrick yawned slightly “I serve the dark prince foremost hence your father has no power over me so I can speak freely. As I said he is dying due to your actions.”

Adelram shook his head “what did I do!? How!?” Jedrick pointed at Asriel “you rejected your father’s gift. So he took it away isn’t that right Silas?” Silas shifted “I don’t know what you are talking about…” Adelram narrowed his eyes power erupted from it “Silas!? Speak now!” Adelram’s voice boomed.

Silas ground his teeth in frustration “as always you think you know best! As always you will make a mistake when it counts! Guess what! Father views you as a disappointment! He hates you! Just this once do the right thing! Forget about the human and focus on what father wants!” Adelram shook his head he searched for when he rejected Father’s gift. His mind drifted to when he decided to call him Asriel. When he poured his heart out.
Adelram’s voice came out meekly “what did I do to deserve this?” Adelram stared at the now twitching Asriel. Adelram’s mouth felt dry he always makes mistakes when it counts. Adelram chuckled “so… father views me as a disappointment Silas?” Silas responded in an annoyed fashion “yes he does.”

Adelram closed his eyes, he thought on all his choices that lead to this point. He did everything in order to gain his father’s attention. Now in this moment it’s clear his father hates him. He views him as a disappointment. It’s confirmed what he actually thinks of him. A part of Adelram hoped Asriel was lying back then.

Adelram slowly opened his eyes he looked at Asriel “mistake after mistake and you keep paying for it. You always put me first in your mind… and even if you break again and again you keep getting up to cover for me… no more… enough is enough...” The rune crumbled in his hands.
The dust swirled together forming a portal that shimmered with a brilliant pink light, Augustus laughed “interesting! Very interesting!” Jedrick smiled a toothy grin “I see… so that is your choice.” Adelram faced Tarkhan “hand me Asriel.”
Tarkhan handed him over, Adelram held the twitching Asriel in his arms. Silas roared “what have you done!?” Adelram spoke his voice flat “I am merely returning Asriel’s trust in me. Father hates me. I am a screw up. I never fit in with the third hence why Eidolon sought to purge me. I realise that now… I am not like the rest of you...” upon hearing his words Salazar, Flavius and Olsen readied their weapons along with their warband members.

Jedrick roared at them “move and our cohorts will come!” Oslen hissed “Adelram… Eidolon will hear of this!” Augustus chuckled “of course he will, I expect father has told him the outcome. The dark prince sent us to protect his choice and we shall do her will…” Adelram faced those who are with him “You don’t have to come, nor do I expect you to.” Silas raged “I knew it… I knew it! If I see you again I will kill you!” Marthas shook his head in sadness “I will not be coming with you.” Adelram’s eyes went wide with surprise “I-I see.” Sebastian walked forward “I will come. I am quite curious where you are going.” Marthas called out “Why Sebastian!? Why go with him!?” Sebastian grinned “why not? I believe this is ordained…” Silas spat in anger “ordained!? Do you realise the gravity of what you are doing!? If you go with him you are betraying the will of our Father!” Sebastian shrugged “so be it. I believe the dark prince has a plan so I am following Adelram.” Sebastian stood with him, Adelram in surprise nodded. Adelram looked to Marius who walked over with his Noise marines. Adelram frowned “why am I not surprised?” Marius chuckled “the song is reaching its highest point. I follow the song as always.” Marius and his noise marines stood with him. Adelram looked to Tarkhan who briskly walked to him “I am proud of your choice Khan.”

Adelram blinked “why?” Tarkhan nodded “you are following your own path. Hence why I am proud.” Adelram faced the portal “know that I have no idea where this portal leads. I just wanted to save him.” Sebastian grinned “But isn’t that more exciting?” Adelram nodded “perhaps… still I have a good feeling..” Adelram turned to face Silas “know that I will come back for my ship.” Silas tutted “know when I see you again I will kill you traitor!”
Adelram silently faced the portal again, he walked in with those who chose to stand with him.

As Adelram stepped out the portal he looked around. He shook his head “no… it can’t be!?” Everyone else came through, the portal closed behind them. Sebastian looked to the ground he took a small step back “I think… I saw a face.. Where are we?” Adelram stared at the destitute white spires, the bone white soil he mouthed slowly “Urum...of all places…”

Marius chuckled “it’s been a long time since I last came here…” Tarkhan folded his arms “Urum? Where is that?” Adelram faced Tarkhan “we are in the eye of terror.”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/19 02:57:14


Post by: shinros


A long chapter

oh god I am excited and now. I hope people like where this is going to go. Now I am tired. :( it will be up soon TM.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/19 15:40:51


Post by: shinros


Chapter 13

Adelram held Asriel close he is still twitching, the rune brought him here to Urum. Of all the people that could fix him he can. The only problem is will he do it? Plus he has nothing to offer the master of this world. As they moved through the ruined city Adelram could hear footsteps in the background and whispering. Tarkhan gripped the handle of his weapon “we are being watched.” Adelram looked around he could see heads poking out from the sides of buildings and windows. Adelram frowned “he knows we are already here. I guess he is wondering whether he should set his creations on us or let us live.” Tarkhan looked ready to draw his blade “I see… so tell me. Who is the master of this world?”

Adelram grimaced when Tarkhan asked the question he has been here many times since he is or was a member of the Consortium. Since Augustus went on his mad dash for ascension along with taking over the warband he never had the chance to return. “Tarkhan, the master of this world is Fabius Bile he… used to be my master. I was an apothecary once.” Sebastian shook his head sighing at the same time “he might tear us to pieces when we meet him...”

Marius raised his eyebrow “he won’t if he wanted that we would already be dead.” Adelram nodded “Marius is right. He would not allow us to walk through this city so easily.” as those words left Adelram’s lips they trudged onwards, he recalled the way to the underground laboratory a part of him wondered if his old study is still intact. Every time he came here Fabius would lecture endlessly to leave Augustus behind and stay with him. It’s due to the fact that apothecaries are rare amongst the legions and without focus you can easily get distracted from the path.
Adelram thought of his robes and horned helmet he shook his head “I have been distracted… pulled so far off the path. I am most likely going to get an earful…” Adelram sighed. Adelram’s mind began to drift he literally dropped everything, possibility lost everything he fought so hard to gain for him. Adelram looked down to Asriel’s face staring at it for a moment he felt a sense of certainty. That he is walking the correct path. Eventually as they made their way through the city they entered a destitute building Adelram knew there are many tunnels and routes to the Consortium he had to make sure to memorise some of them. Walking through the dim tunnel they came to giant double doors. Tarkhan relaxed slightly “so this is the place?”

Adelram nodded “yes it is…” Adelram sighed heavily he shouted “Master! Please let me in! I need your help!” Adelram’s voice echoed in the tunnels. Sebastian mumbled nervously “are you sure he will aid us?” Adelram shook his head clearly unsure “I don’t know. You never know what to expect when it comes to Fabius.”

Adelram stood in place for a minute, as Adelram was about to call out again the doors slid open. Adelram felt a small chill of fear as his old master came into view. The jacket made of skin, the bruised purple armour, the ashen face and white hair. He strode forward while holding his rod Torment. Around Fabius is apothecaries of different legions from night lords, iron warriors to even the death guard. All of them pointed weapons at them.
Fabius stood in front of Adelram frowning, Adelram gulped as his old master’s menacing voice echoed in the tunnel “so you’ve come back? May I ask why?” Adelram’s mouth quivered slightly if he says something wrong he will kill him for sure “I was brought here. No, I needed to come here.” Fabius creased his brow in frustration “let me guess by that “god” the third prances on about? I never expected you of all people to be like them.”

Adelram clutched Asriel’s body “I think after what I did many in the third wish to kill me. Even father.” Fabius smirked “I know as you arrived on the planet many of the apothecaries who belong to our legion were in a frenzy. Begging me to kill you.” Fabius tapped the head of torment in his hands “So tell me my wayward student. Why should I not reduce you and your whole group to materials? You have forgotten what I have taught you. No you spat on it.” Adelram cast his head down slightly he looked up to Fabius “In the end I realised I am not like the rest of my brothers. I can’t be like them, trying to pretend to be like that will never get Father’s attention.” Adelram chuckled “he never liked me in the first place…”

Adelram clutched his eyes shut he slowly got to his knees to Sebastian’s and Marius’ shock he opened them slowly and looked up to Fabius “Master please fix him. Father did something, I am told his soul is crumbling in on itself.” Fabius looked down at him his eyes bore into him taking him apart piece by piece, he then stared down to Asriel. “hmm perhaps you are not so hopeless and actually learned something. Very well come in.” Adelram blinked “what?” Fabius turned “you heard what I said. Come in.”
Adelram got to his feet, he nodded to Sebastian, Marius and Tarkhan. They followed Fabius into the Consortium. As they walked the apothecaries that were with Fabius diverted to their own studies or rooms. Fabius smiled “so I guess you threw away what I taught you in the thought that it will get you closer to Fulgrim?” Adelram sighed as always he is so direct “yes.”

Fabius shook his head while giving a chilling chuckle “Fulgrim as always distorting us in order to please him. I guess he used your mania to his advantage but considering you are here shows that you have an actual head on your shoulders.” Fabius words were like darts, it’s clear that Father wanted to use his life for whatever plan he had in mind for the sectors. A sad thought started to grip Adelram’s mind Augustus and Jedrick said his father would praise him when he dies. That is the truth, but the truth is never simple when it comes to neverborn.
Adelram thought on the possibility that the praise would not be how he would expect it. Perhaps his father would twist the knife in his own way. Adelram shook his head trying to banish the thought process. “No more thinking about it now… I made my choice.” Adelram said to himself.
Adelram looked at the halls it seemed familiar until they finally stopped at a familiar door “my study?” Fabius nodded “yes I will work here. This is where you and those that follow you will be staying.” Fabius pushed in the code to open the door, Adelram frowned it did not surprise him that he knew the code. He most likely knows how to unlock everyone’s abodes in the Consortium.
As they walked in all his equipment is how he left it. Save the servitor that still ran it’s protocall to clean his room when he is away. One thing Adelram detested back in the past is when his equipment gets dusty. Fabius pointed to the operating table with his rod “Put your human there.” Adelram placed Asriel on the table.

Fabius gave him a look over “interesting… it seems that his body is breaking down. Never seen something like this before...” Adelram felt anxious as Fabius stared at Asriel there is a possibility that he will most likely tear him to pieces than attempt to fix him. Fabius nodded “right, everyone leave.” Adelram blinked “what?”

Fabius pointed his rod at him “for one none of those that you bought along are apothecaries and you are so out of practice I don’t want you distracting me or touching equipment.” Adelram bit his lip slightly “very well. We will wait outside.” As Adelram walked out of the room Tarkha, Sebastian and Marius along with his noise marines walked outside.

As they all left and the doors slid close Adelram clutched his hands “it’s out of my hands…” Tarkhan gestured to the door with his head “your old master is an interesting one.” Adelram frowned “he likes to lecture a lot. Thinking about it I should of listened to him as time went on I simply thought that he talked too much.” Marius nodded “the benefactor is wise in his own way. It was through his work the kakophoni were born.”
Sebastian folded his arms “all we can do is wait for now.” Adelram sighed “indeed.” As the seconds moved to minutes and then hours Adelram spotted Fabius’s vat-born coming in and out of the room with trays of materials. On some were tubes other’s there was multi-coloured concoctions.
Adelram wondered what Fabius was doing in there.Adelram began pacing waiting for almost another hour until the door slid open revealing his old master. Fabius grinned “it’s done.” Adelram gasped slightly “really? You saved him?” Fabius frowned “in a manner of speaking… Adelram come with me the rest will wait outside.” Tarkhan inclined his head “do not worry go inside.”

Adelram nodded he walked into his study what he saw caused his hearts to sink, Asriel’s body is covered in tubes connected to strange machines that are pumping a strange liquid into his body. Adelram spoke slowly “what… what is this?” Fabius raised his eyebrow “you wanted to save him so I did it. The degradation has stopped. Whatever Fulgrim has done to him his body was breaking down rapidly, his organs, his muscles even his brain matter. I am surprised he was talking around normally beforehand to be honest.”
Adelram slowly took off his helmet he breathed in the smell of medicine and blood “isn’t there any more that can be done?” Fabius tapped the haft of the rod on the ground as the vat-born lumbered out of the study with the trays “well I did try to replace the muscle mass but whatever is added to his body starts instantly degrading. I assume it’s the same with organs and even his brain and I doubt you want a vegetable.” Fabius shrugged “anyway my work is done I will leave you with your human.” As Fabius was about to leave he turned his head slightly “Considering you are going this far in attempt to save him perhaps he was the reason you changed.” Fabius stepped out without another word. Adelram dropped his helmet it clanked onto the floor.

Adelram slowly walked over to his door and locked it, he stared back at the operating table. He did not want to approached it a part of him wanted to look away. Adelram edged towards the operating table. As he closed in he could see Asriel’s chest slowly moving, he is not twitching anymore. His eyes are closed.

Adelram shook his head again the mistakes are piling this is just another and the fact the most organised aspect of the third now wants him dead. “I will just have to live that…” Adelram stared at Asriel for a moment more, his eyes flicked open his eyes were black like the void. Adelram took a step back in surprise“w-what? B-but I thought..” Asriel spoke but his voice was not his own, it’s a familiar a voice. A voice he has not heard in years “Adelram…” Adelram shook his head frantically “it can’t be! It can’t be you!” His father smiled with Asriel’s face, the smile looked unnatural as his face distorted “this humans bears a tiny fragment of me that is now bleeding away… I have come to say that you have disappointed me.”

Adelram clenched his hands “I-I had no choice…” His father hissed in anger it caused Adelram to flinch “you had a choice! You had the choice to gain my love and you threw it away! For what!” Adelram cried out “B-but father I tried! I always tried but you never looked at me!” Fulgrim looked upwards with Asriel’s face “back then during horus’ war did you think I was doing it for no reason? My little star rising so rapidly seeking my attention.”
Adelram blinked “w-what?” His father faced him and smiled again “but when you did not enter the laer temple I grew disappointed. When everyone was pushing further you stopped. I hoped you would of killed Augustus and took his place I would have personally congratulated you… but you grew boring…”

Adelram’s hands were shaking “but I couldn't kill him! H-he..” His father scowled “he what!? Your love for me should matter the most!” Fulgrim grew calm once more in a unsettling fashion “Still once you embraced the dark prince I grew interested again.. it was amusing watching you flounder across the galaxy. But in the end you tumbled like I knew you would.” Adelram’s breathing became hoarse hearing his father speak, hearing him belittle him his hearts coiled it made him accept it. Every word that spilled from his mouth he accepted it. Fulgrim grinned “now…since I am a loving father I will give you an out. Refuse and I will disown you, my sons will hunt you to the end of your days.” Adelram blinked “w-what do I have to do?” Adelram felt like a child being told off he had to please his father. That need filled his mind.
His father looked up again “kill this human, then I will forgive you.” Adelram gulped his mouth felt dry it was like ash filled it. Adelram took a step forward he gripped Asriel’s head with his hands. His father smirked “that’s it he begs for you to kill him. Give him what he wants…” Adelram’s mouth trembled “he wants me to kill him father?”

Fulgrim chuckled as he narrowed his eyes “yes, he hates to see you suffer he does not want your life to be filled with misery. He does not want to see you hurt… do as I ask. Do what he wants.” Adelram squinted his eyes all he had to do is twist. His father is asking something from him, Asriel also wants him to do it.

Asriel is broken, even his old master could not fix him. In this perhaps he could grant him mercy. Adelram closed his eyes he did not want to look, but in the end that did not help either. It caused him to reflect on his mistakes, his blunders and failures. His mind raced he searched for another way the rune said it would grant his desire, it brought him here to Urum. It brought him here to… Adelram mouthed slowly “the eye of terror…” As those words passed his lips he saw a glimpse of the towers from the vision on Califa. He felt his fingers moving away from Asriel’s head “killing him would be the easy route… I made a promise that I will fix him…. I will reward his trust in me.” His father’s face contorted into pure fury “you dare….! Very well! I will leave you with your broken human! You are foolish! You can’t fix him! I disown you! You are not my son!” Adelram’s hands flexed slightly at his words “you never saw me as your son. You finally decided to use me because I was useful at time. I am not surprised you talked to Silas…” Adelram sighed in sadness I also have a responsibility to my second half. I would not be here if it was not for him. In the end father even if you hate me I still love you but I will not cast him aside. Never again...”

Adelram moved his hands to his black robe, he tore it off he picked up his helmet from the floor. He stared at the horns, using his psychic powers he disteingrated them. Leaving two crudely broken horns on the helmet. Adelram slowly placed his helmet on “You were the one that broke him father. So I will go over you to fix him.” Fulgrim’s eyes went wide he laughed “you can’t do it! It’s impossible!”

Adelram shook his head “what do I have to lose? Living is hard, life is simply made of hardship after hardship. It’s how you push through it! survive it! How you grow from it! That is what matters!” he stared intently at Asriel’s face “Be patient. I am going to visit someone who restore you. I will come back.” The darkness began draining from his eyes as his father’s voice echoed in his mind “you will die and I will laugh as you are consumed…”

Adelram watched Asriel’s head sag, he placed it back in the correct position. Adelram made his way to the exit he will need to request a ship from Fabius to get to where he needs to go. Adelram unlocked the door he walked out to see Fabius still standing there with everyone.
Adelram surprised said “master… I…” Fabius sighed “I had a feeling you are going to ask something so I waited.” Adelram breathed in and then out “I need to borrow a ship, I just need something small nothing grand either.” Fabius frowned “you walk in and start demanding things... “ Fabius creased his brow in frustration “if I did not like you along with the fact you angered Fulgrim I would of reduced you to materials. Fine… but in exchange those you bought with you will work for me while you are away.”

Adelram nodded “thank you.” Tarkhan stepped forward “Khan may I ask where you are going?” Sebastian folded his arms and echoed his question “yes, considering your state something happened in there.” Marius merely chuckled “you are going to the place of the song aren’t you?”
Adelram nodded “yes, I am going to dark prince’s palace.” Fabius shook his head in annoyance “it seems your fellows are going to be indentured to me forever.” Adelram clenched his hands “No. I will come back Typhus has journeyed to the realm of the gods. I will do it as well.”
Tarkhan nodded “very well I will work with you master until your return.” Sebastian grinned “do tell me what divinity looks like when you get back.” Fabius mumbled “I assume you remember where the hanger is?”

Adelram inclined his head “I do” Adelram began walking away he stopped and turned his back slightly “oh and master?” Fabius raised his eyebrow “yes?” Adelram smiled under his helmet “you were right I was acting childish.” A thin smile played across Fabius’ features as he continued to walk away.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/19 15:41:45


Post by: shinros


Will he make it? What will happen? I can't wait to write it.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/20 04:08:18


Post by: shinros


Chapter 14

Adelram sat on the command throne of the small escort frigate, Adelram noted that all the necessary positions on the bridge are manned by servitors he wanted to take this journey alone. Adelram thought of the spires from his vision he held it in his mind for some reason he had a strange inkling of where to go. He had a strange idea where he needs to be to get to the realm of the dark prince. Adelram ordered the servitors “start launch protocols! You will go to these coordinates!” Adelram spoke the numbers for some reason it did not slide off his tongue right the servitors keyed in each number they twitched slightly as they entered the coordinates. The ship started to move the hanger doors above the ship opened slowly. Adelram felt nervous but this is the only route he could take. Deep down he wished he listened to Fabius “he does not speak for no reason…” Adelram thought on his master a bit more. He does not wish to give up practicing sorcery but he also wishes to retrain again. Perhaps if he returns… “I should ask him…” Adelram sighed “let’s focus on making it to the palace first. Jedrick got there why can’t I?” The ship slowly lifted off it shot into the distorted and multicoloured void. Adelram sat back on the throne he watched as the ship sailed deeper into the eye.

Jedrick walked on all fours he prowled the halls of the dark princes realm. Jedrick shook his wondering why he remembers that name. All he can think of is the dark prince and him…. His other titles is the hound of slaanesh or the white wolf. He looked up to his compatriot the starlight king he is grinning ear to ear “he is coming… I can’t believe it!” Jedrick grinned back “I told you..”

The starlight king held his smile he flapped out his wings “yet we are the only ones who volunteered to be his guides… if he fails she will also punish us.” Jedrick growled “he won’t!” The king shrugged “I know he won’t hence why I joined you.” Jedrick eyed the starlight king “what of your father?”
The king tapped a talon on his marble chin “he is raging that he is having the audacity to try. He will calm down as always. He believes he won’t make it, along with many other princes that serve him.” Jedrick chuckled “as always they underestimate him…” The starlight king inclined his head “indeed hound….”

Adelram sighed the closer he went sails into the eye the very space distorts instead of actual space it’s now just an assortment of colours. Suddenly the ship ground to a halt. Adelram frowned “servitor 20334! Are we are the coordinates!?” The servitor intoned “yes we are at the coordinates.” Adelram looked at the view screen again he sees nothing save the roaring currents of the warp. Adelram sighed again heavily “I had a feeling it would be here…” Adelram folded his arms he tried to think he wondered if there is something he is missing. As he thought the servitors all turned their heads to him, what disturbed him even more is that they broke their necks to do so. Their heads sagged on their bodies they all mouthed at once “you seek entrance?” The voice echoed in the bridge, as it entered Adelram’s ears it tingled. “So will you let me into slaanesh’s realm?”
The servitors spoke again “yes, but you must do something.” Adelram stared at the servitors his hearts began to beat rapidly “what must I do?” The servitors all gave a horrific grin “lower your gellar field….” Adelram clutched the arms of the throne “I see.. We are deep within the eye. Neverborn will enter the ship..” The servitors frowned “if you seek entrance you will lower the field.” Adelram closed his eyes he opened them slowly “very well…” Adelram looked to his command throne screen he used the captain override to shut off the gellar fields. As they powered down the lights of the ship began to flicker. The servitors began to scream in binary along with speaking in the dark tongue. They convulsed and roared.

As the lights continued to flicker dancing spirits that were purple in colouration entered the bridge, they looked to be androgynous they laughed and singed. Watching this a bead of sweat ran down his brow. The spirits finished their song their eyes flicked to him they roared and charged towards him. Adelram instinctively held up his hands and closed his eyes. As Adelram clutched his eyes shut the sound of servitors drained away, he slowly opened his eyes to his shock he was now standing upright. Adelram blinked he was no longer on the ship but standing before a golden gate. The gate bore the rune of slaanesh on top of it and the gate itself bore the design of neverborn twisting and dancing. Adelram squinted his eyes beyond the gate he only saw darkness.

Adelram gulped slightly he slowly reached for the gate and pulled it open carefully. As he walked into the darkness he found himself in a large hall. Mirrors lined the walls and the walls themselves distorted with garish colours. As he walked down the hall the smell of perfume penetrated the recycled air produced by his power armour. Adelram found it extremely distracting “guess I made it..” he continued to walk down the hall if he stared into the mirror he saw himself but for a brief second he saw the face of laughing daemonette. Adelram bought his eyes away from the mirrior.
He face the end of the hall, he saw the wooden door “focus… I have an objective.” Adelram briskly walked to the end of the hall he opened the door and walked forward. What greeted him was an open space with distorted skies along with that were mountains of gold that reached the skies that glinted with an unnatural light. The very floor was made from golden teeth and gems. Adelram took a step forward, a shadow then covered him. A figure crashed down in front of him he covered his eyes. As Adelram lowered his hands he saw a familiar figure “Captain..?” Augustus grinned “hello… quite brave of you to come here.” Adelram blinked “so I am really in the dark princes realm?” Augustus nodded “indeed you are. Let me be the first to welcome you…” His captain gestured his hands outwards “the first circle of Avidity!”
Adelram looked around “I see… so I assume this place contains any treasure you want?” Augustus smiled as he picked up a gold tooth with his talon “indeed. Do you wish to partake?” Adelram frowned as he trudged forward “no. I am not here for treasure.” His captain walked behind him “of course this circle will not move your heart. You should worry about the next five though…” Adelram raised his eyebrow “five circles?”

Augustus nodded “Indeed, if you can get past the circles you will stand before the palace.” Adelram grinned “right, I need to get moving then..” His captain smiled “indeed, hence why I am your guide… it will not take long to reach the second circle follow me..” Augustus upped his pace walking past him. Adelram followed as they walked the circle of Avidity he spotted a emaciated figure trying to count the coins just for it to topple. They would weep uncontrollably each time it occurs after several minutes of crying they would start again.
Adelram shook his head “to enter this realm and seek gold is beyond me…” Augustus chuckled “unlike the dark princes brothers slaanesh tries to invite as many people as possible so they can enjoy the bounty of his realm…” Adelram frowned heavily “then you eat or torture them when you are ready I assume?” Augustus laughed “of course! It’s a blessing to be devoured by us!”

Adelram tutted “I see.. So are we almost out of this circle?” Augustus inclined his head “almost…” As they walked they came upon statues Augustus stopped “I love gazing at these..” Adelram looked up to see golden statues of neverborn intertwined with mortals their expressions trapped in constant rapture. Adelram looked at another statue of a daemon beckoning a strange emotion began to cling to his hearts. Adelram ripped his eyes away instantly “can we move on?”
Augustus chuckled “don’t you want to look at them some more?” Adelram folded his arms as he flatly said “no.” His captain gave a toothy grin as they continued to walk “good choice.” As they walked past the statues Adelram raised his eyebrow “may I ask why?” Augustus scratched his head “many of those statues were visitors like you so many drawn into the arms of neverborn to be trapped together with them experiencing ecstasy for eternity…”

Adelram scoffed “sounds pathetic to be honest. That is not living.” Augustus laughed harshly “hence why this circle did not grip you. Let us move on.” Their feet moved through the golden teeth until they reached a shoreline. Looking out in the distance Adelram saw islands that moved slightly and the colour of the sea is a deep red, connecting the islands is a long crystal bridge. Augustus “pointed we will be crossing that bridge into the next circle” Adelram nodded “right.” They walked onto the crystal bridge as they walked the smell of food began to fill his nose. Adelram’s mouth watered slightly his belly oddly rumbled as they reached the first island the ground shone like sliver. Across every inch of the island was scrumptious food. Adelram eyed the feast, Augustus picked up a handful of food and dropped it into his mouth he chewed as he said “don’t you want some?” Adelram gulped he slowly walked to the food as he got close to the edge of the island he heard a groan of pain. Adelram frowned “what was that?” Augustus stuffed his mouth with another mouthful of food “oh, it’s the pallid giants that hold the island.”

Adelram blinked “what!?” his eyes shot over the edge he saw a large pale head moaning and grimacing. He took a few steps back “so… we are on a pantry dish?” Augustus nodded “indeed. Now are you going to have some food?” Adelram looked to his right he saw meat, vegetables and even ice cream in mint condition waiting to be eaten. Adelram felt drool falling from the side of his lips. He knelt down slightly and scooped up some food he lifted his helmet slightly to reveal his mouth. As the food was about to reach his lips he felt a crash next to him. Adelram dropped the food as he looked to his right he saw a obese man attacking the food relentlessly moaning as he stuffed food into his mouth. Adelram watched him grow larger and larger without even a care.

Adelram suddenly felt sick, his appetite was vanishing he stood upright “l-let’s move on…” Augustus frowned “really? You don’t want any food?” Adelram shook his head “no and I want to leave quickly before I reconsider.” Augustus nodded “very well.. Come with me.”
Adelram followed Augustus over the next bridge leading to the next Island. The more bridges they passed he saw the bodies of dead mortals their bellies bursting open with rotten food. Adelram shook his head “they ate until they died…” Augustus laughed “indeed! I saw one drinking themselves to death! It was fantastic to watch!” Adelram raised his eyebrow “there is wine here?” Augustus nodded at pointed at the sea “the sea surrounding the islands in the circle of gluttony is made of wine. Do you want to try it?” Adelram scowled “No! We are moving on!” Augustus shrugged “alright.. Get ready for the next circle many die in the next one.” Adelram grimaced “may I ask why?” Augustus licked his lips intently “you will see…”

As they reached the final island the last bridge lead into a purple mist. Augustus turned “since you are reaching the third circle I shall give you a prize…” Adelram furrowed his brow “a prize? May I ask why?” Augustus nodded “the dark prince ordained every three circles you will get a prize. Now hand me your blade and scabbard.” Adelram unhooked his blade from his belt he wondered what Augustus is going to do with his broken sword as he gave it to him. Augustus held the weapon in his hands it began to shine with a pink light distorting and changing. As the light died Adelram saw the size of his blade has increased in size it almost looked to be the size of a two handed sword save the scabbard. Augustus handed him back his blade looking at it more intently he could see the handle is far more elegant and larger. Looking at the scabbard more carefully the only change is the part where the sword enters. Adelram pulled out the weapon he frowned to see his sword is still broken. The metal that remained of the blade was slightly larger save that his weapon has not changed much.

Adelram sheathed his blade and attached the scabbard to his waist “so… this is it?” Augustus smiled “you might need it in the next circle. Follow me.” Augustus walked through the mist, Adelram eyed his blade one more time before following Augustus. As Adelram entered the next circle what greeted him took his breath away. Fields that shone with a golden light along with soft hay. His hearts twisted with a strange desire as he saw maidens in almost see through gowns frolicking, dancing and laughing. Across the fields he could also spot beasts, fiends of slaanesh galloping together.
Adelram shook his head “what is wrong with me?” Augustus looked down at him “Adelram. You are still a man even if you are now a Astartes.” Adelram felt his mouth drying “this should be easy. I never desired to be with anyone.” Adelram took a step forward it was oddly heavy to him. Augustus nodded “very well. If this is easy for you I will be looking over head.” Augustus flapped his wings and launched himself in the air. Adelram slowly walked through the fields he tried to ignore all the maidens, focus on getting to the end of the field he can see a bridge at the far end leading into more purple mist. Adelram focused on that as he slowly walked. Adelram was getting closer he was half way there until a maiden stood in front of him.

She had flowing black hair and blue eyes. He fair skin almost looked oiled and her features aqualine. She walked up to him as she came close a strange musk filled his helmet. He could not resist he felt his hearts melting in front of her a name was being etched into his mind he spoke slowly “Moira…?”

Moira smiled “took you long enough….” She twirled “what do you think of me?” Adelram clenched his hands he never loved her or desired her but this... What is before him is different. Adelram spoke slowly “I-I-... I think you look beautiful…” Moira grasped his large hand she smiled gently “stay here with me…We can talk like old times or perhaps.. Even more than that..” Adelram blinked “even more..?” Moira whispered “yes..” Adelram wanted to embrace her his mind raged to do so. But something stabbed at the back of his mind that he was here for a reason. He was here for him not her. “I can’t stay…” Moira frowned she began pleading “Don’t leave me! Please! I beg you!” She held his hand tightly with both hands “I was so scared when I went to visit your father…” Adelram furrowed his brow “what? What do you mean?”

Moira shook her head “I gave my book to him. He then threw me into a stasis pod and left me on the next world… The war was already over by the time I was found. I was so alone… I wanted to see you again. I had to survive to see you again…” Adelram wanted to reach for her face to apologize to say he is sorry for leaving her.

Adelram clenched his other hand “but you are with me now…” Moira shook her head she began crying weeping and it crushed him to see such a face bearing tears “but you left me again! For him! Do you love him!? What is so special about him!? What can I do to make you love me!” Adelram cast his eyes down “It’s nothing like that. He trusted me and I kept letting him down. He would smile gladly as he lets himself be crushed on the Anvil. He was never jealous he never plotted against those that followed me. Unlike..”
Adelram then remembered the cage incident he looked at Moira’s face he pulled his hand away to her horror. “N-No! Please No!” Adelram walked past her he stared at his objective. Adelram then heard a distorted roar “No!” Adelram then felt a sharp pain in his side he saw a claw piercing his waist he turned his head slightly to see Moira’s white gown has changed to a leader corset. Her face shifted to that of a daemon. Adelram pushed her back with telekinesis, as the daemonette crashed to the ground all the maidens stared at him their eyes turned black like the void as all of them began charging towards him. Adelram swore as he broke into a mad dash towards the bridge he drew his blade. Adelram frowned “what am I meant to do with this!?” Adelram smashed aside a daemonette that was in his way.

As Adelram ran a host of daemonettes stood in his way he cursed again “fine! This sword is a gift let’s see what it can do!” Adelram activated his blade as he normally would the blade burned it surged with eldritch energy. The missing part of the blade slowly formed into a blade of shimmering pink light. Adelram could even spot the blade fragments inside it. Adelram gripped his blade with two hands “it’s a two handed blade now…” Adelram swept his blade sideways as he approached the daemonettes the blade moved through their bodies like butter. Adelram then heard crunching around his feet he looked down to see bloodied legs, feets, hands and even heads.

Adelram edged closer to the bridge “this whole place is to make someone commit to carnal vice… the problem is the daemonettes have a completely idea on carnal..” Adelram kicked a daemonette that tried to leap at him. He threw a ball of purple fire at another.
As he closed onto the bridge several daemonettes at his right and left leapt on him trying to drag him down. They giggled and laughed one whispered in his ear “stay with us..” She began stabbing her claw into any exposed part of his power armour the other wailed at his chest.
Adelram roared as he released a burst of psychic energy throwing them off his frame. Adelram could see he is just a few more steps from the bridge. Adelram then heard galloping he looked behind him to see fiends are now closing in on him. Adelram pushed himself forward he dived into the mist and rolled.

Adelram panted as he sat on one knee “that was close… Augustus! Where are you!” Adelram looked around he found himself in a elaborate corridor. Pink silks covered the walls and on every surface were garish colours. What stood out is that in several places he could see the rune of the third legion. Adelram looked down the hall at the other end he could see an open door and a shining light. Adelram rose, he deactivated his force sword returning his blade back to his broken form “Am I in the next circle?” Adelram then heard a snarl in his mind the voice boomed “yes you are..” From the walls another familiar figure phased through them he stood on all fours like a wolf “greetings…” Adelram mouthed slowly “Jedrick?”

Jedrick grinned showing his fangs “aye, you are in the next circle very few get past the third.” Jedrick began walking to the glowing door “follow me.” Adelram raised his eyebrow “what of Augustus?” Jedrick frowned “I am your guide now. Follow me.” Adelram nodded he walked with Jedrick to the glowing door. Jedrick sat next the door as he gestured in “you first.”

Adelram frowned in annoyance “what is this circle about?” Jedrick picked his black nose with a talon he flicked away the debris he found “walk in and you will see. You have to walk in to get to the next circle.” Adelram nodded “fine.” Adelram stepped forward into the light, he found himself standing on a balcony. Below were cheering legionnaires belonging to the third, Adelram then felt a great weight on his right pauldron he looked up to see his father. His serpentine body, his white flowing hair and black horns that protruded from his head. “My son… you have done so well..”
Adelram gasped “what is going on?” His father gave him a gentle smile “I have changed my mind. I decided you will lead a third of the legion. Many are gathering to fight under you banner. Your brothers are here with you.” Adelram looked around the balcony he now spotted Tarkhan, Marius, Sebastian, Silas and Marthas clapping with approval. Silas chuckled “looks like I was wrong…” Marthas smiled “I am confident you will lead us to victory!” Adelram looked down on the cheering crowd they chanted his name. A smile slowly played across his features his smile almost reached its zenith as he suddenly realised something is missing “Where is Asriel?” Tarkhan stepped forward “why does he matter? You lead a third of the legion…” His father nodded “indeed. Your path to glory is truly beginning accept this wonderful army and sing the name of the dark prince across the galaxy!”

Adelram frowned “no.” Silas scowled “what? Why!?” Adelram shook his head “what is the point of ruling when he is not here? I only started this path because of him and I will end it with him.” Adelram turned away “Also I came here to save him. Not rule over brothers who now hate me.”
As Adelram walked away without another word as he went back he found himself suddenly in a forest. Bountiful and colourful flowers crossed the entire forest. Thorns zig zagged across all the flower stems choking them holding them upright. Adelram gasped “this.. Is beautiful….” he then heard a clap behind him he turned to see Jedrick standing next to the door clapping “most would not turn that down especially in the third.” Adelram narrowed his eyes “As I said he should be there. If he is not what is the point? Plus I am here to restore him.” Jedrick nodded “very well let us press on.” Jedrick walked down the path, Adelram followed behind him. As they walked they came upon strange mirrored pools, Jedrick smiled “these pools show your ideal self. The self you want to be..” Adelram raised his eyebrow “really?” Jedrick inclined his head “yes. Why now try it?”
Adelram bought his eyes to the pool the water shimmered and slowly his reflection came into view but it looked nothing like him. He wore elaborate black, pink and silver armour, his features more beautiful and wonderful than his current self. He watched himself smile showing pearly white teeth. Adelram could see this version of him looked unbowed, undaunted.

Adelram clenched his hands staring at it more started to anger him he called out “does father hate him?” He did not hear any response he ground his teeth “Has he disowned him!?” he called out again. Adelram narrowed his eyes at his ideal self “Is Asirel sitting on slab crumbling away!? Tell me!” He watched his reflection simply flick his hair and smile again. “This is what my father wants of me…this is what my brothers want of me... this is not me. I will not make that mistake again…” Adelram tore his eyes from the pool he noticed the thorns were wrapping itself around his legs. As he bought his eyes away from the pool the forests parted revealing a path and the thorns removed themselves from his legs. He could see jedrick chuckling “it seems you passed the fifth circle… just one more…” Jedrick made his way to the path. Adelram jogged towards him as they walked he saw people gripped in pure agony as thorns have wrapped itself entirely over them. Each and every person that were in such a state were standing over a pool. Jedrick stopped “oh yes. The gift.” Jedrick turned he walked up to him “here…” Jedrick reached around his back and tapped it. Adelram raised his eyebrow “what are you doing?” Jedrick shrugged as he faced forward and continued walking.

Adelram looked at himself, Jedrick tapped his back so he tried to look behind him as he walked he caught the site of a strange white pelt. Adelram smiled “interesting…” As the pelt moved his felt his mind expanding enlarging. He felt a rush of power. Adelram flexed his hand he generated a ball of eldritch fire it erupted into almost a raging inferno. Adelram cut off the power right away he chuckled “if I survive… the things I could do..” Adelram looked up to see Jedrick is getting distant he ran after him. As they exited the forest they came upon a long beach. Adelram looked around “what is this meant to be Jedrick?” Adelram looked up to where Jedrick was standing. He frowned to see he has vanished. Adelram sighed “I guess this is the last one..” All Adelram saw was the beach of white sand the sea and in the distance a palace.

Adelram’s eyes went wide “I am almost there…” Adelram took a step forward as he took that single step a strange lullaby entered his mind. His legs began to feel tired, weariness gripped him. Adelram took another step the sea crashed on the shore instead of salt he smelled a heavy perfume that tore at the walls of his mind. It told him to stop, to rest, to sleep and let everything go. Adelram sagged forward he groaned “I-I am so tired…” Adelram stared at the palace in the distance he tried to focus on that as he walked. As he walked he strangely felt acid in his legs. His eyes felt heavy, his mind was crumbling due to the song and waves. Adelram wanted to stop.. His life has been so hard. He dropped to his knees “I tried so hard… I am so tired...I-I…” Adelram looked up to the palace “It would be easy to rest… I don’t have to deal with it anymore… no more pain… no more hardship.” Adelram felt hazy his eyes fluttered. He thought on Asriel, his broken body, the body he ruined. The body he sacrificed and finally the memories he gave up. Adelram clenched his hands he roared “I can’t! I can’t stop!” Adelram rose to his feet he gasped as he broke into a run “He wouldn't stop for me! He would keep going!” Adelram cried out “I am almost there!” Adelram could see he is closing in on the palace.

Adelram panted as he ran, he tried to block out the song, the smell. His objective is in sight he kept running he clutched his eyes shut he focused on moving his legs. As he ran he crashed into something hard. He tumbled to the ground with a thud he opened his eyes wearily to see Augustus standing over him giving him a toothy grin “you made it.” Adelram blinked “wha..?” Jedrick also stood over him “Indeed he has…” Adelram slowly got up “what do you mean? I made it?” Augustus nodded “look and see!” Augustus moved aside what greeted Adelram were beautiful pink and purple spires that spiraled into the sky. A grand palace that emitted smoothing music and howls of pleasure. Adelram slowly walked forward “I made it… I actually made it..”

Adelram slowly walked towards a bridge, Augustus and Jedrick walked beside him. Jedrick grinned “Impressive.. Isn’t it?” Adelram nodded slowly “yes… it is..” As they reached the double doors leading into the palace they were covered in multicolored gems that shimmered softly. Adelram gulped “so he… she is in here..” Augustus inclined his head “yes.. Are you ready?” Adelram looked to the ground “I..don’t know..” Adelram looked to Jedrick and Augustus frantically “what should I say or do? How should I greet a god?” Jedrick licked his lips “you know what you want. Focus on that.” Adelram thought of Asriel “Yes… I know what I want.” Augustus gestured to the doors “open them and meet divinity.”

Adelram placed his hands on the door he pushed a pink light erupted from the doors as they slowly opened.

He could not see, he did not know what or who he was. His mind felt like it’s crumbling, dying it’s so painful. He tried to move but couldn't, he felt cold as a sharp pain covered his body. He wanted to die, it’s too painful he wanted to let go. He hated the darkness, the cold darkness that clawed into him. He cried “someone.. Help me please..” He saw a light. He tried to move to reach it. Warmth entered his mind as the light got closer. He struggled to reach it but was held down. He needed the light, he craved it. As the light travelled towards him he cried out again “please help me!” The light crashed into him. The cold vanished he felt warmth, pain no longer gripped his body.

Yet it was odd he was in darkness still, he moved his hands he felt a space around him. He shifted his legs he could feel he was sitting on something hard. He finally moved his head, he could actually move his head. “Where am I?” A voice entered his ears, a gentle voice that made his heart melt “you are safe..” The voice felt oddly familiar “who are you! I can’t see!” The voice spoke again “you can open your eyes.” He cried out in response “I can’t!” The voice purred “you can.” He finally relented he nodded “alright… I will try.” He tried to open his eyes it was like it’s glued shut. He kept trying again and again each movement he felt the stickiness vanishing. He tried one more time and his eyes flicked open.

Light erupted into his eyes he winced his vision was blurry. He blinked several times correcting his vision. He looked at himself he was wearing a white robe. He sat on a bench. Around him was simply white empty space. He scratched his head wondering where he was. His mind drifted to the voice it felt close by like it was almost next to him. He looked to his left he saw a large man wearing black and pink armour. His hair is quite long and some of the white strands are now blonde. At his black flowed a strange white pelt. The man turned to face him, his skin was almost alabaster his face looked young and fresh it was also utterly sexless. Yet even so he felt oddly drawn to him. What stood out most of all is his eyes, black eyes of pure darkness. The large man smiled gently “How do you feel?” He stared at the person he felt so familiar drawing in his features again for reason he broke down crying “w-why?” He bought his hand over his head and patted it gently “Asriel.. My little Asriel.” He heard the name and felt a spark in his mind. Pieces, fragments were being added. In the white space still frames were being made, in one part he saw dark eldar and cages. In another he saw a grand feast. He sniffed “you grew out your hair?” The man smiled “well.. Yes. It’s at the limit to allow wearing a helmet. Do you want me to cut it?” Asriel shook his head “No. I think it looks good.”

He stared at the man intently a name was on a cusp of his tongue. Asriel looked around to see more still frames are being added. He saw himself standing with an Astartes on several war torn battlefields. He saw himself healing his legs on a truck.
Asriel mouthed “your name.. I almost have it..” Asriel stared at his face intently “Adelram?” Adelram smiled he removed his hand “so there it is..” Tears began rolling down Asriel’s cheeks he wiped his eyes “what.. How.. when… I can see. I remember…” Adelram rested back on the bench “the dark prince did it. I made the journey to her.”

Asriel blinked in surprise “y-you met a god? What did he look like?” Adelram stroked his chin for a moment his void like eyes bore into him for a moment. Adelram shrugged “I can’t remember.” Asriel frowned “really? You can’t Remember?”Adelram sighed “it doesn’t matter. Still I want to say something.” Adelram closed his eyes for a moment he sighed as he slowly opened them “I am sorry.” Asriel’s mouth hanged slightly he was at a loss of words. Adelram narrowed his eyes “I am sorry for stuffing you in a cage without thinking. I am sorry for insulting you on zatos and I am sorry that I did not listen to you on Athor…” Adelram spoke firmly with conviction “our eyes mirror each other now. From now on you will stand at my side.” Asriel placed his hands over his eyes the tears were endless he did not know how to feel. He did not know what to say he mouthed slowly “t-thank you..” Adelram smiled “don’t mention it. When I come back we have a lot to do.” Asriel raise his eyebrow “My lord what are you planning?” Adelram’s brows perked up when he mentioned my lord, Asriel raised his eyebrow “Is something wrong Adelram?” Adelram shook his head laughing slightly “everything is fine… As I was saying..” Adelram gripped him close. Adelram spoke in almost a whisper “Look Asriel…” Asriel blinked the still images vanished they now sat surrounded by various planets. Asriel looked up to see Adelram grinning ear to ear “Tell me Asriel what do you think of the galaxy?” Asriel frowned “well… it’s pretty terrible to live in.” Adelram nodded “exactly! Exactly!”

Adelram clenched him tighter “we need to bring entropy to everyone! Show them the bounty the dark prince others! Let them taste the fruit of darkness!” Asriel blinked “Adelram what of your father?” A large frown slowly creased his features “father… Fulgrim can do as he pleases if he needs me for something I will answer but he is no longer my focus. This is what I want to do. So… what do you think?” Asriel stared at the planets “sounds fun!” Adelram’s smile returned to his face “Indeed! Think on it.. All the people we bring beautiful entropy to. Their lives colorful… their minds full of joy…” Adelram released him he sat back in the chair grimacing “first I have to get my ship back.” Asriel stared at Adelram “so what should I do?” Adelram scratched his head “I will be returning soon. Just focus on recovering.” Asriel nodded “okay I will do that.” Asriel stared at Adelram he started to fade slightly he sighed “time’s up…” Asriel furrowed his brow worry clinged his hearts “where are you going!?” A dark smile played across Adelram’s face “As I said I am returning soon.” As Asriel continued to blink he faded piece by piece. He blinked one more time and he found himself lying on a table. He looked at himself he saw strange needles have been inserted into his body. The needles are connected to tubes that are pumping a strange concoctions into his body. Asriel began hyperventilating he tried to move he fell off the operating table with a thud. Asriel pulled at the tubes removing them one at a time.

He slowly staggered up “where am I?” He could tell he was in a study mixed with a operating theatre. Asriel faced the door it clicked open and two Astartes entered. They stared at him in confusion. Asriel pointed at the one on the left “Tarkhan.” and then on the right “Sebastian.” Sebastian mouthed slowly “you are awake… walking.. He did it..” Tarkhan take a few steps “your eyes.” Asriel frowned “what’s wrong with them?” Tarkhan shook his head “they are black like the void.. Perhaps..” Asriel scratched the back of his head “well… Adelram said our eyes are mirrored.” Sebastian’s eyes went wide “you spoke to him as well? What did he say!?” Asriel tapped his chin “he said is coming back soon.” Tarkan and Sebastian looked at each they nodded, Tarkhan gripped the handle of his blade “The clonelord and Marius should know about this.” Sebastian folded his arms “indeed.” he looked over to Asriel’s direction “come with us.”

Asriel nodded slowly “alright.. I will come with you.”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/20 04:09:04


Post by: shinros


Part one ending soon! I hope people enjoyed this chapter. The 8th edition daemon codex was helpful.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/20 22:25:45


Post by: lliu


Nice! I love the fact that the castle is surrounded by tests of excess. I would definitely fail that sleep one tho. I'm so tired lol.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/21 02:49:56


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Nice! I love the fact that the castle is surrounded by tests of excess. I would definitely fail that sleep one tho. I'm so tired lol.


Pretty much there was a great topic about the circles on the 40k lore reddit. That the vices get less... carnal and grotesque the further you go in and they become more sophisticated which sort of shows the priority in Slaanesh's mind. Most people speculate that slaanesh kinda looks down upon people who fail at 1-3. Well he would look down upon anyone who does not make it to the palace.

In the end what partly helped Adelram get through were his insecurities and the fact he is not like his brothers.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/21 21:07:45


Post by: shinros


Chapter 15

Asriel walked with Tarkhan and Sebastian. He wondered where he was it seemed like a strange labetory. He recalled Tarkhan mentioning the clonelord and Mairus. Asriel rubbed his stomach his belly felt utterly empty. When he woke up he felt fine but each step he took it’s like his gut is eating itself. It turned painfully each time he passed anyone his mouth would quiver uncontrollably. Even keeping his eyes on Tarkhan and Sebastian did not help either. The more he stared it made it even worse if he had to put a word to it, he felt empty. Hollow he needed something, anything to fill it. Tarkhan turned his head back slightly “is everything okay? It’s been some time since you last moved.” Asriel blinked he did not feel fine, the emptiness is gnawing at him he tried to bare it “ I am fine… also how long has it actually been? I felt like I have only been asleep for a few hours.” Tarkhan shook his head slightly he sighed “well… it has not been a few hours but six years.” Asriel’s mouth hanged slightly “six years….” Asriel touched his face he wondered if he looked any different. Sebastian chuckled “that’s the mystery.. You haven’t aged a day. Fabius wanted to cut you up wondering how such a thing is possible.”

Asriel frowned “Fabius… I see.. Adelram told me of him.” Tarkhan nodded “yes we have been working for him for some time now. He is an… interesting fellow. Not what I expected actually.” Asriel scratched his head “right, so what happened to the warband?”
Asriel folded his arms when the emptiness did not gnaw at him he focused he tried to recall the events on Califa. He remembered falling to the ground, pain clinged to his chest and then he vomited. Things largely went dark after that.
Sebastian chuckled “most likely running around following Silas.” Asriel clenched his hands he started to feel angry, instead of a burning sensation it was a cold fury. Cool directed, his head began formulating ways to kill Silas, to tear him apart piece by piece “he betrayed him…?” Asriel hissed.
Tarkhan gestured “calm down, in a sense manner of speaking but in his eyes Adelram betrayed him and the third.” The fury would not dissipate “it does not matter h-” Tarkhan spoke firmly “it does, back then he did not have the strength of will to rein them in. But I think that will change once he returns.” Asriel furrowed his brow “what makes you think that?”

Tarkhan chuckled “your eyes for one, there is a cold hunger to them. An emptiness that seeks to devour everything. I imagine if you had free rein you would wander off and begin killing everything in sight. I can tell a strange… and cold killing intent is bleeding off you. It’s quite interesting…I expect Adelram is now the same.” Asriel could not help but frown at his words “so that’s how you see me?” Sebastian looked back slightly “I agree with him to be honest. It’s not a bad thing… don’t let it bother you.” Asriel stared at Silas a part of him is surprised he stood with Adelram. Asriel asked “what of Marthas?” Sebastian shrugged “what about him? He stayed with Silas, most likely he convinced him beforehand. He constantly moaned to Marthas about how Adelram did things.”

Asriel shook his head his lips curled into disgust “Marthas… a traitor… I can’t believe it.” as those words passed his lips they came to a double door guarded by two guards. They wore makeshift armour and held las weaponry. Their looked bulky yet slim at the same time, their faces were squared they began staring at Tarkhan and Sebastian like predators who see prey.

Tarkhan inclined his head “we are here to see Fabius, he has awakened.” The guards somewhat ignored Tarkhan and stared at him they narrowed their eyes at him. One spoke their voice was almost monotone “what are you? Prey? Or a predator?” Asriel returned their gaze his eyes darted around their bodies looking for weak points. He searched for ways he could kill them, not even kill tear apart slowly. His hand trembled slightly he took a small step forward, Tarkhan stopped him with his hand Asriel looked up to him “what are you doing?”
Tarkhan shook his head slowly “control your aura, control your killing intent.” Asriel frowned “what are you talking about? Tarkhan spoke again his voice flat “you are bleeding out a strange… feeling of wrongness. It places people on guard.” The guard grinned “definitely predator..” The guards stepped aside “the benefactor is within.”

Sebastian stroked his chin “I wonder how he will react…” Asriel rubbed his neck as the doors slowly opened. A strange aroma erupted through the door, breathing it in to Asriel it was like the air has been sterilised. Asriel felt bile lining his throat he covered his mouth slightly. Tarkhan looked down at him “what’s the matter?” Asriel shook his head he clenched his eyes shut “the smell… is so bad..” Tarkhan removed his helmet, he clipped it to his belt he sniffed the air “I don’t smell anything. Are you okay?” Asriel slowly opened his eyes the smell made the hollowness he felt in his body worse his mind started to scream to correct it. He had to correct it. Asriel forced the bile down he had to control himself for now. Asriel lowered his hand he gulped slightly “I am fine.. Let’s go in.”

Tarkhan faced the door “very well..” Asriel followed Tarkhan and Sebastian into the chamber. As they walked in Asriel spotted strange machines that blinked with dim lights, strange hooded people running back and forth with trays. In the centre of the room he saw an Astartes he wore a jacket made of skin, the purple of his armour bruised and small threads of white hair lined his scalp. It seems he is working on someone who is sitting on a chair.
Asriel could not see exactly who he is working on due to his frame covering them. Sebastian coughed slightly “Fabius.. We a-” Asriel narrowed his eyes at the Astartes, this is the Astartes who trained Adelram. Fabius perked up “what is it? Why are you bothering me? If my gland hounds let you in this must be important.” Tarkhan took a step forward “he is awake, he is with us now.”

Asriel watched Fabius freeze he turned slowly towards him “how… interesting.” Fabius began walking towards him abandoning what he is working on, Asriel tried to look behind him to see what he was doing. Fabius stood before Asriel he grinned “you woke up fascinating… and you are walking without much issue considering the length of time you were on that table.” Fabius gripped his face tightly “mutation in the eyes as well…”

Fabius quickly went to his belt bringing out a strange gun. Fabius released his face and held his arm tightly, Asriel grimaced “wha-” Fabius placed the gun to his arm and pressed the trigger. He felt a small sting at the top of the gun Asriel saw a small tube being filled with blood. Fabius removed it after a few seconds he looked up to it his face brimming with curiosity “I will examine this later…” Fabius then turned his head slightly to the chair “Marius get up. My work is done.” From the chair Asriel heard the feet of power armour moving towards them until Marius stood side by side with Fabius. Asriel stared at Marius’ face the only thing that changed is that he now has a mouth. Tiny scars exist at both edges of his mouth but save that his face looked wonderful. Marius licked his lips his voice sounded like a purr “thank you benefactor your work is wonderful as always.” Fabius shrugged “I had nothing to do at the time. Plus watching your speaker vexed me greatly, it was so crude…” Asriel scratched his head Fabius and Marius seem familiar with each other. Marius then looked down towards him “you are awake. It seems he has done it.”

Asriel nodded slowly “yes, Adelram said he should be coming back soon.” Marius stroked his chin “I see, he did not specify when correct?” Asriel inclined his head again “indeed. So what now?” Marius shrugged “we continue what we were doing before you will aid us.” Fabius grinned “now that you just said that I do have a job for you..” Sebastian grumbled “the last task had us exploring a crone world. We were almost killed by Aeldari wraith constructs…” Fabius frowned heavily “I hope you are not rejecting me? Rejecting my hospitality?” Sebastian looked away slightly “N-no.. forget I said anything..” Fabius frown departed his features “Rig-” before he got to speak the doors opened Asriel watched as one of the guards entered, one of Fabius’ gland hounds. He bowed “Benefactor..” Fabius crossed his arms “what is it?” The gland hound rose “there is news, a ship is within orbit it’s not moving.” Fabius raised his eyebrow “I see… right I have a new task for you three then.”

Tarkhan nodded “very well...do we have the name of the ship?” Fabius looked to the gland hound “do we have the name?” he nodded “yes benefactor we do, it’s one of ours. The endeavour..” Asriel watched Tarkhan’s eyes lit up, Fabius stroked his chin grinning “my he sure knows how to time things…”

Fabius nodded “right, all three of you will investigate.” Fabius then pointed at sebastian “make sure you cover up your arm Sebastian. The vacuum of space might of entered the ship.” Sebastian rolled his eyes “yes I will take care of it…” Fabius brought his eyes to Asriel “you will go back to my student’s study.” Fabius pointed at the gland hound “he will escort you back.” Asriel frowned “I wish to come as well!” Marius shook his head “no, you just woke up.” Asriel then remembered that Adelram said to focus on his recovering he sighed “very well..”

Fabius briskly turned away as he said “now you all know what you are doing I suggest you get to it. I have things to do.”Marius nodded “let’s get moving.” Asriel watched everyone nod in agreement. Mairus stood on the gunship with his noise marines, Tarkhan is checking his sword and Sebastian seems to be standing quietly contemplating. The gunship moved smoothly through the void the gland hound pilot is impressive. Marius found them interesting, the benefactor called them the people who would replace humanity. The fact they can breed, they are stronger and faster compared to the normal man or woman caused a part of him to think it could happen. A small number of them can easily take down an Astartes also something which he guessed many of the legions find troubling. Marius chuckled “there is nothing wrong with making something more perfect….” he mused more on the subject “If the new replaces the old then that is the way of things.”

In a sense the imperium has already done it with their new Astartes. With time all Astartes would be of the new breed. Marius fiddled with is sonic blaster he spoke under his breath “in the end it won’t matter chaos is truth. Chaos is beauty and out of all of them the dark prince is the most perfect and beautiful of them all…” Marius then felt a sense of excitement grip him the song is almost at its end, he wondered what the song has made of Adelram. The gland hound called out “we are entering the Endeavour be ready.” Marius nodded he placed his helmet on. Those that did not wear it did the same. He got his sonic blaster ready this ship has been in the realm of the gods. There is no telling what they might find. Tarkhan and Sebastian drew their blades, Tarkhan gripped it tightly “so he is here…”

Marius inclined his head in his direction “so he is. I am quite eager to meet him again.” The gunship soon landed with a thud. The bay doors opened slowly. Marius began walking down the bay doors “let’s get going.” They stepped onto the empty docking bay, the doors of the gun ship closed. Marius looked around the ship looked run down. Almost like it’s been through a warzone. Marius faced the doors leading into the ship “right let’s get going.” Tarkhan nodded, So did Sebastian. His noise marines looked more eager than anything to explore the ship. Marius could understand that sentiment perfectly it’s been touched by the perfect god who wouldn't want to explore such a place? The group made their way to the doors and opened them as they stepped into the corridor Marius felt a soft song creasing his mind. The song was comforting at the same time it is like it’s trying to guide them. Marius looked back at everyone “do you hear that…?” Sebastian nodded “I do… this song is different compared to the voices.” Tarkhan bobbed his head “yes, oddly it doesn't feel distracting it's strangely helping me focus.” Marius faced down the corridor he had to agree with their assessment. This song is not sitting him on edge it’s a comfortable sort of sound but it’s making him aware at the same time.

Marius looked at his head up display it’s analyzing oxygen levels it would take some time before it determines whether it’s safe for helmets to be removed. Marius gestured down the hall “let’s move.” Trudging through the halls the ship is empty, save the song that played within their minds. If they walk in certain directions the song gets more quiet or louder. Marius grumbled “it is leading us…” Marius looked to his heads up display the analysis is almost done. Exploring the ship it seems that no battle has occurred and if the analysis comes back positive then they most likely can freely explore. They entered a hall leading towards the bridge. The song began reverberating in his mind he had a feeling this is the correct path. Marius called out “we are heading to to the bridge. Be on guard..” Everyone acknowledged the call. Walking towards the bridge the song began pressing on his mind, Marius nose began to bleed slightly. Strangely there was no pain the sensation is almost euphoric, they walked to the door leading to the bridge. Soon as they reached the door the song stopped. The song vanished and only silence greeted him. Marius frowned he grumbled under his breath “why did it stop..” he then sighed and moved to open the door. As the door slid open everyone readied their weapons. What greeted Marius on the bridge were servitors their necks broken. All of them looked towards the command throne.

Marius eyed the servitors “I wonder what happened?” Tarkhan walked slightly ahead of him “the servitors are looking to the command throne.” They all walked to the middle of the room. They turned to face the command throne.
Marius smiled “there he is…” Sitting to one side he saw Adelram his armour looked gashed from battle. Marius then furrowed his brow slightly he spotted a strange white fur pelt is flowing from his back and the handle of his blade looks different. Marius took a step towards him. Soon as he took that step he stopped a sense of wrongness gripped him. It’s similar to Asriel but far more stronger. Marius feels if he takes another step he will be utterly consumed leaving only bone behind. He never felt like this around him before. Adelram is a psyker he always exceeded a sense of… otherness. But what he is feeling now is different. Marius has started to find that fear has now begun to grip him, it’s been years since he felt it. That acid like feeling gripping his hearts but some reason it excited him. Adelram is almost like a forbidden fruit and this sensation is daring him to approach. As always he dared when such emotions came to him.

Marius slowly walked up to the throne, he stood right in front of Adelram. His body slanted to one side. Marius reached out with his hand and like lightning Adelram’s hand flicked out. He grabbed his gorget and with great force pulled him close. Everyone instincily readied their weapons. Adelram spoke his voice was like a pur but at the same time his words carved a hole into his mind. Marius hearts began to shift as he said a single word “Kneel.” Marius eyes went wide he panted the hole in his mind is raging to obey. He had to obey. Adelram released his gorget, he staggered back breathing heavily. Adelram slowly sat up right again as he intoned another time “Kneel Marius.” Marius’ mouth felt dry as his body slowly sagged to the ground he kneeled before him his hearts beating rapidly. Adelram called out again “all of you kneel.” Marius looked around everyone lowered their weapons and got to their knees. Adelram stood up the servo’s of his armour purring, he walked down towards them. The wrongness Marius felt before began to increase. It was like something is constricting his mind. It was almost painful it was like his body is acting against him for daring not to be obey the first time. Adelram stood before him, his white pelt shimmering slightly. He slowly took off his helmet he dropped it to the ground revealing his face. Marius stared up to Adelram’s face a strange darkness cascaded into his mind. Adelram’s features were now utterly sexless, his skin tone is almost alabaster in colour and his white hair is longer than before. Threads of it are now blonde.


Marius began hyperventilating his combat stims activated it’s like his whole body is switching to battle mode. Whatever is before him is a threat. Marius stared at those black void like eyes it felt like he is about to get devoured. Marius’ mouth trembled slightly “A-Adelra-”
Marius watched his eyes twitch slightly, his hearts jumped in his mind it raged that he said something wrong. Fear began exploding like wildfire throughout his whole body for the audacity of possibly offending him “Apologies.. M-my lord.” As those words parted his lips the twitch vanished.
Adelram began walking around them staring, it felt like he is pulling them apart piece by piece and then putting them back together again. Adelram stood before him when he was done. He gave a soft smile that caused the fear to completely melt away “My dear brothers I hoped you haven’t waited too long.”

Marius bowed his head lower “My lord, it hasn’t been too long we waited faithfully for you to return.” The fear vanished but a slight amount of panic remained. He never felt like this before. In all the warbands and lords he served this is the first time he has felt this way.
Adelram raised his face gently “It’s fine, you are the ones who stayed by my side faithfully.. Please call me Adelram.” Marius blinked the fear vanished leaving now appreciation he saw now saw true beauty “i-it would be disrespectful..” Adelram removed his hand he frowned heavily.
Marius began sweating slightly a tingle of the fear came back “y-yes Adelram.” Adelram slowly smiled again he nodded “right. I assume we should see master now yes? Up you get all of you.” Everyone looked at each other and slowly rose.
Tarkhan walked over “Khan.. it’s good to finally meet you.” Marius raised his eyebrow slightly at Tarkhan’s words. Adelram simply smiled “it’s nice to meet you as well my dear champion.” Tarkhan bowed again “thank you for your words.” Sebastian then came forward he stared at Adelram for a few moments he chuckled “enduring of all that is worth it… finally looking at you now..”

Marius almost wanted to hit them for speaking so casually to him they should be more respectful. Adelram gripped his pauldon it caused him to flinch “relax Marius you have worked hard for so long. Relax..” Marius felt his arms sagging slightly he recalled how long he has been searching, maneuvering and fighting for what seems like an age staring at Adelram now in this very moment he said silently to himself. “The song has finally come to and end…” Adelram faced the doors “I want to leave, I am eager to see Asriel again.” Marius nodded “Yes my lord we have a gunship waiting in the docking bay.” Adelram turned his head slightly and gave a thin smile “I see, let us leave then.” Marius watched him begin walking out a large smile began lining his features. The ones who refused to follow him, Marthas and Silas. A reckoning will come. Tarkhan stood on the gunship with his Khan, his king. The one he has waited for. The gland hound stared at him in almost a sense of wonder he watched their eyes dilate for a moment. That predatory aura vanishing for a few moments. He shook his head and blinked several times “we are going back to urum please be ready.” Before he could walk away Adelram gripped his arm.

His eyes went wide his other hand quickly went to his belt to grab a knife but Adelram was faster. Adelram turned him around to face him He stared at the gland hound looking intently at him. To Tarkhan the gland hound now looked like prey squirming in the hands of a true apex predator. Adelram began breathing softly he spoke “master does such wonderful work… I barely saw them but the new men look improved.” Adelram removed his hand that held the arm going for the knife.” Tarkhan spotted that the hand is now trembling heavily, Adelram gripped the gland hounds face examining his blocky face “so beautiful… I could..” Darkness began spilling from Adelram’s body. Tarkhan watched the hound now trembling in fear or perhaps excitement. Tarkhan frowned “Khan, I don’t think it’s a good idea to harm him.” Marius looked at him in sheer shock. Tarkhan spoke again “we do not know how he will react if you do something to him.” Adelram slowly released the gland hound he pouted “you are… correct.” The gland hound staggered back panting heavily. Before quickly moving to the pilot's seat.

Tarkhan watched his khan now face him it excited him he could not help but smile. He wondered where he would take him. What he will make him do. “So Khan, tell me what was it like meeting the Khagan?” as he spoke the gunship began setting off into the void. Sebastian echoed his question “Indeed, you met a god what was it like?” Adelram faced them he stroked his chin for a moment he then shrugged “I don’t know.” Tarkhan furrowed his brow “you don’t know?” Adelram nodded “well yes, what she looks like might be completely different to you.” Sebastian pressed then “what did he look like to you then?”

Marius scowled “enough vexing him with questions!” Adelram smiled at Marius “It’s fine they are curious Marius, I know you are as well.” Marius looked away slightly. Tarkhan nodded “As Sebastian said what did you see?” Adelram placed his hands to his lips “it’s a secret.”
Tarkhan sighed slightly “very well.” Sebastian mumbled in disappointment. Tarkhan then watched Adelram sit on one of the seats he hummed as the gunship moved through the void. Tarkhan stared at him that same emptiness he felt from Asriel is also present he then bought his vision to the hungering void, his eyes. Looking at them a sense of mystery also gripped him he can’t foresee what his next action is going to be.
Tarkhan closed his eyes “things are going to get far more exciting..”

Adelram walked the halls of the consortium making his way to his study it’s likely his master is there. Fabius knows him to to well, his brothers followed behind him he could sense their adoration, their fear and excitement. He felt the need to reward that they have been so patient. Such patience and restlessness should be dealt with but unfortunately that cannot be done right away.

Adelram felt his heart rate increasing each time he passed a vat-born, in the palace he could do what he wanted. The dark prince let him enjoy the bounties of the palace to learn and explore and in those moments he realised the circles are there to weed out the unworthy. The circles are traps for the dark prince to see who will topple at base excess. Still a great sense of longing grips him whenever he thinks of the palace since returning a sense of hollowness churned within his body.
He imagined Asriel must be feeling the same right now since it what's the one who thirst’s very hand that weaved him back together again after his father did his work. Thinking of his father a part of him wanted to see his face, his reaction when he proved him wrong. Adelram could not help but smile “his fury must of been great…”

Eventually they came upon his old study doors Adelram put in the code to enter it. The doors slid open slowly he walked inside he saw Asriel sitting on the operating table and his master was taking blood samples. Asriel’s face lit up upon seeing him he was about to move until he realised his arm his being held.

Fabius looked up “so you are back, surprising.” Adelram smiled “yes I returned from the realm of the gods.” Fabius rolled his eyes “you changed for the better but you turned into a fanatic like the rest of them.” His master released Asriel who then quickly hopped off the table he ran over to him. “Are you okay?”

Even in his void like eyes he could tell worry is there Adelram nodded “I am fine.” He looked over to Fabius “I also thank you master for taking care of them.” Sebastian mumbled “he almost got us killed several times…” Adelram flicked his head towards him he bore his eyes into Sebastian as he said firmly “but you had fun in the meantime didn’t you? Do you wish to make me look bad Sebastian? After my teacher was nice enough to take care of you?” Sebastian looked away meekly “apologies...”Adelram grinned “don’t worry..” he faced his master against as always he can never tell what he is thinking. Looking at his brothers they are like books to him now for some reason but Fabius is still unknowable a prospect that strangely excites him. “Master I wish to ask a favour..” Fabius frowned “Let me guess you wish to retrain? I also doubt you are going to stop throwing around your psychic powers?” Adelram inclined his head “you are correct, it’s going to be some time before the opportunity to get back my ship comes. So in the meantime I wish to keep myself busy.” Fabius raised his eyebrow “so tell me, why should I waste time retraining you when you so easily discarded it before?”

Adelram tilted his head slightly “why not? I will even throw in samples of my blood I know you are curious to see the effects of my journey... When I get my ship back there will even be more benefits….” Adelram caught a small glint in Fabius’ eye “very well.” Fabius pointed torment at him “I assume you will need the escort frigate in the future?” Adelram smiled “of course, I assume this time the ship will be manned with your vat-born and new men so it can be returned. When I take back control of my ship.” Fabius shook his head “I wonder why I keep helping you all the time..” Adelram chuckled “perhaps it’s my charming personality master?”

Fabius began walking out of the room sighing “I expect you in my operating theatre in 2 hours to begin.” Adelram nodded “I shall be on time teacher..” As Fabius left he looked to his brothers “Apologies, just wait a bit longer we will go visit Silas and Marthas again soon.”
Tarkhan inclined his head “worry not I am patient..” Marius in turn licked his lips “it’s alright I am eager to see their reactions to your return but as Tarkhan said I am patient.” Sebastian grinned “plus no more dangerous tasks…” Adelram nodded he looked down to Asriel he can tell he is eager to get to punishing Silas and Marthas “be patient my dear boy it will come soon.” Asriel frowned “I hope. I am surprised Marthas is not with us…”

Adelram smiled “as am I, still I am sure it’s Silas that poisoned his mind. Don’t worry I will handle it for now go spend some time with Fabius Gland hounds to get used to your body.” Asriel mumbled “right I will.” Adelram rubbed his hands together a small part of him is also impatient but what he relearns here will be necessary to renovate the warband.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/21 21:09:36


Post by: shinros


Part 1 epilogue

Cassian cursed as he walked the lower levels with Durant he wondered what he did to displease Lord Silas to be sent down to hunt the Beast. Durant grumbled “I wonder if it even exists, Silas’ obsession with it is foolish.” Cassian frowned he guessed such speaking is the reason why he is also punished. Cassian recalled his own possible mistake even though he survived the daemonic attack on the ship and has stood side by side with Silas for the six years of rebuilding the warband one possible mistake has cost him.
During the last raid he fell back against a squad of guardsmen he was the champion of the unit to fall back against humans shows he is not perfect in the eyes of Silas. He is flawed like the lesser beings. Cassian spoke back to Durant “I guess it was running your mouth is the reason why you are with me?” Durant curled his lips in disgust “he presumed I was insulting him! I did nothing wrong!”

Cassian shook his head “think of it this way, if we kill the beast that might lead us to those who refused him when he took over if we deal with that we will be rewarded. Plus We were fortunate that the navigator was captured.” Durant nodded in agreement “does it not surprise you that all those that fled are those who served the traitor? Perhaps the beast is one of them?” Cassian recalled the time when Silas took over, all those that served the traitor Adelram fled to the lower levels never to be seen again. Considering the mutants that live in the bowels of the ship they are most likely dead. “I doubt it. Plus they are only mortals” Durant sighed “yet everyone Silas has sent to hunt it has not returned.” Cassian clenched his hands “something else most of got them. There is nothing down here that can be used to kill a Astartes.” Cassian walked the dimly lit halls for a moment more. They came upon a hall and at the other end was a large figure sitting. A black cloak obscured their whole body.

Cassian drew his blade, Durant mirrored his action. Cassian took a few steps forward he called out “Slave! What are you doing here!?” The figure perked up Cassian heard a large bestial grumble. The figure rose and what shocked Cassain that he looked to be almost two heads taller than him.
Cassian looked to Durant “This must be it!” Durant shook his head “This is the beast?” Cassian nodded he faced the figure “you will die here mongrel! Your presence shall be ended by us!” Cassian watched a furry white arm leave the cloak it gripped it and pulled it off.
Cassian’s eyes went wide he saw a beastman, a giant one at that. It’s whole muscled body is covered in white fur, two oiled black horns protruded from it’s bovine face. Make shift armour covered his body and his opaque eyes bore into him. As the cloak left the beast’s body he saw a giant two handed power axe it’s other hand.

Cassian watched it’s snout flaring it spoke the beast’s voice is gruff “leave now or die.” Cassian looked to Durant he could see his hand trembling slightly on his blade “We have come to claim your head you ugly beast!” The beast sighed heavily, he stomped it’s hooves on the ground it roared as it charged at them. It gripped it’s two handed power axe, the beastman is going straight for Durant. Durant charged forward, to Cassian it looked like he was going to prepare to dodge to its side and then attack. That is what exactly happened until just as he was about to strike the beastmen axe whipped out like lightning chopping Durant in half. Cassian watched as half of Durant’s body tumbled to the ground.

Cassian gulped his mind raced with solutions to this predicament the sound option would be to turn back. To tactically retreat but he is a son of Fulgrim, he can’t let an ugly beast like him deter him. Cassian charged instead of trying Durant’s strategy he will remain close dodge his attack and strike. As he got close the beastmen moved to strike him with his axe, the power field sparking as it moved through the air. Cassian ducked under the strike, he grinned looking upwards. His eyes went wide as he saw a fist is now coming straight towards him “how he can be so fast!?” The fist thundered into his face sending him scraping across the ground. The beast roared and charged towards him. His hooves thundering on the metal floor plating. Before he could get up his axe came down striking him again and again. Blood and bile filled his mouth as he felt the meat of his body being torn and burned by the power field. Black spots were filling his vision he gasped “N-no!” As the axe is rose again and was brought down upon his head.

He stared at the two dead Astartes he scratched his head in annoyance “why do they always come?” He hefted his axe over his shoulder and grumbled in frustration “I wonder when master and brother are coming home?”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/21 21:10:56


Post by: shinros


So yeah... epilogue, first part of the story is done! Hope people enjoyed the first part!

Spoiler:




Oh yes if people actually want to know which mutations our fabulous leader has I got idea's from the black crusade role play.

Spoiler:
FACE OF SLAANESH
The visage of the Dark Prince of Chaos is, to most mere mortals
at least, both utterly horrifying and achingly beautiful to
behold. Neither male nor female, human nor alien, it transfi xes
the soul and obliterates all other desires. Having looked upon
such a face, all others are mere empty husks. The character’s
face assumes the merest fraction of Slaanesh’s countenance and
all who look upon him are utterly enslaved by his dark allure.
The character gains the Fear 2 (Frightening) Trait (or
increases his Fear Rating by +1 to a maximum of 4 if he already
has it) plus the Peer (Mortal Followers of Slaanesh) Talent


HERMAPHRODITE
Slaanesh is said to be both male and female, and neither, for
mere mortal perception cannot begin to quantify its true nature
and such terms are but pale shadows of the terrible truth. The
character’s body is changed to refl ect something of this state,
assuming the characteristic single breast so common amongst
the servants of the Dark Prince of Chaos, as well as features
that are disturbingly attractive yet ultimately sexless. The
character becomes an object of adoration to all around him,
whether male or female, and fi nds his own identity assuming
an amorphous, genderless quality where such petty mortal
qualities as masculinity and femininity become meaningless.
Whenever the character passes any Interaction Test, double
the number of Degrees of Success by which it is passed.

WREATHED IN CHAOS
The warp so infuses the character that it leaks from his
very pores and coils from his eyes, nose, and mouth.
The character gains a +10 bonus to all Interaction Skill
Tests with fellow Disciples of the Dark Gods. Against others,
such as xenos or inhabitants of the hated Imperium, he gains
a +10 to Intimidate Tests only.
Slaanesh: The character is enveloped in a soporifi c musk,
which distracts and confuses opponents. All enemies within
10 metres suffer –10 Willpower.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/22 14:00:59


Post by: shinros


Chapter 16

Silas sat on his command throne all the mortals have faces to consoles they dare not to meet his gaze. He brooded on what to do next right at this moment they are trading resources at a space station in the eye of terror. It’s been hard these past eight years the traitor’s actions have been felt in this warband. They had to claw and fight to regain status in the eyes of the third. Even if all of this has happened he has rebuilt this warband into something respectful, something his father would be proud of. All hold themselves to the highest regard, all aspire to be the perfect weapon, the perfect warrior for their primarch. The only issue, the only thing that plagues him are the lower levels. If he goes down there personally with terminators he can’t find hide or hair of those who follow the traitor. Yet when he sends others they either go missing and those that do come back are half mauled spitting gibberish. So far they haven’t moved, but in the end at least the navigator was secured.

He had her chained to her throne and all her necessities are handled by slaves. Silas clenched his hand “I should of been faster… Perhaps I should of gathered them first..” Soon as he took the navigator the slaves that fellow the traitor caught wind. They were like rats scurrying away. Even the tech priest fled with his serfs. Silas leaned back “in the end I don’t need him. Many tech sefs are loyal to me…” Silas looked through the screen he could see a tiny escort frigate docking at the space station. Silas could not help but wonder how such a small ship can survive in the eye especially after it’s now spread across the galaxy. He wondered what they could possibly offer or trade considering you can’t even attack a world with such a ship.

Silas’ eyes diverted to his storm-bolter the one he looted from the corpse of a grey knight the need to pillage is starting to consuming his mind. The need to cut and feel the thump of bolter rounds leaving his arm. Silas rose all the slaves on the bridge winced with fear.
He silently walked away from the bridge he could sense the slaves breathing out a sigh of relief as he left. Silas grinned that should be their response lesser beings needs to know their place. He did not teach them such a fact is the reason why the rebellion a few years ago occured.
Silas clenched his hands “we should trade quickly so we can leave…” Silas made his way to Marthas’ room his training has become more lethal if people die then they are not perfect or of any worth to the warband. Silas thumped on his door it slid open as he lowered his hand.
He walked in, Marthas’ room has censers bellowing pink mist, scrolls hanged from every wall and shelves contain strange fetishes and materials. Along with that a soft singing can be heard. Silas could see is Marthas sitting at a desk writing his teachings in a skin bound book. The pages of skin have been cut from the backs of slaves. Marthas looked up “what is it Silas?” Silas grinned his voice boomed out of his helmet “I have been thinking..” Marthas raised his eyebrow clearly curious “about what?”
Silas nodded “we need to move up in the world. I am going to have the warband hunt Adelram. The traitor, if I deliver his head to Eidolon..” Marthas folded his arms “do you know where he is? How can we search for someone when we have no idea of there whereabouts?” Silas nodded “we can ask the neverborn. I am favoured I can feel it… they will answer.”

Marthas chuckled “so you wish me to summon them?” Silas nodded “yes, I wish for you to do so.” Marthas nodded “very well…” Marthas rose from his desk he cleared it of books and placed a metal bowl upon it. He then went to one of the shelves grabbing materials, the tears of tortured slaves, the white dust of bones and finally bottled blood. Marthas poured the ingredients in one at a time chanting as each one fell into the bowl. As all the ingredients mixed together a purple flame exploded from the bowl. Marthas chanted more loudly the dark tongue spilling from his lips. Silas narrowed his eyes at the flame dancing upwards shifting dancing into a feminine form.

Marthas stopped chanting “the neverborn will not fully form but it should be enough to answer questions.” Silas nodded “that’s all I need. Everyone will stop looking down on us once we take his head.” Silas bought his eyes to the flame again after a moment the upper half of the daemon formed. The leather corset shining, the flowing black hair along with the pale skin bearing a purple hue. The daemom smiled “why are have you called me?” Silas spoke firmly “I Silas lord of this warband seek answers handmaiden!” The daemonette gave a shrill laugh “so what do you desire then? What do you seek?” Silas smiled “I want to know the location of Adelram the traitor! I want to know where he is so I can tear his hearts from his body! And kill all those who stood with him!” A coy grin lined the daemonette’s face “so you seek one of her lovers then?”
Silas’ mouth hanged slightly at her words “is that a joke?! Lovers!? He betrayed the Phoenician! He betrayed the third!” The daemonette casually shrugged “the dark prince care’s not for the bickering of his lessers. You do not get to decide who she loves. The one you call traitor is special he made it all the way to her.” Silas could see Marthas furrowing his brow “what do you mean he made it all the way?”

The daemonette licked her lips “it’s as I said he made it all the way…watching him run was amusing..” Silas growled “be more specific daemon! You were summoned to answer my desire!” she sighed heavily “fine, fine if you wish to know he is very close by. So close that he is moving towards you..” The flames began fluttering out the daemonette began dissipating she laughed “I am quite curious to see the meeting…” Silas shook his head in frustration “I find it hard to believe the dark prince would favour one such as him. After he betrayed our father.” Marthas nodded “Indeed he had everything he wanted in his hands and threw it away…” he creased his brow “he threw it away for him of all things.” Silas could not help but agree with Marthas “he threw it away for a pathetic human. He loves the human more than his own father.”

Silas grumbled slightly the neverborn said he is close by that he is moving towards them “Anyway the summoning was fruitful he learned he is going to come to us. Then we'll take his head.” Silas smiled “I can’t wait to ground that traitor under my boot…” Marthas inclined his head “then you will receive your due..” Silas nodded “indeed, I worked hard to bring this warband back from the depths.. Now I will retire to my chambers our brothers should be done with the trading soon.”
Silas left Marthas’ room without another word he made his way to his chambers, the slaves gave him a wide berth whenever he walked by. He has one time removed the eyes of a Slave and fed him to daemons for not giving him the correct space. Those who are lesser need to know their place, there is an order to things. Astartes are above mortals.

Silas made his way to his chambers, his chambers used to belong to the traitor he has since renovated it to his liking. Slaves are at hand to serve him food and wine waiting at attention. Making sure his chamber is spotless. Silas approached the double doors he pushed them open as he stepped in and closed the door. He looked to his slaves they were shaking in fear heads cast down Silas growled “hurry up and get my wine ready!”
The slave did move they just stood in place “You dare ignore my instruction!?” Silas made his way to the slave he raised his hand “I will get another… you dared ignored my order...” Then he heard a voice it was like purr that put his nerves on edge “Silas… that is no way to treat him..” Silas turned he looked to his throne his eyes went wide.

Sitting on the throne was an Astartes in black and pink armour, they wore a mark IV helmet along with a backpack bearing a light, large syringe and a drill, from his back he caught the hint of a shimmering white pelt. Around the throne stood familiar people Tarkhan, Sebastian and Marius. The odd one out was a human wearing a skull helmet wearing black and pink full body carapace armour. They also wore a familiar black cloak. Silas slowly walked towards the person he suspects is sitting on his throne he stopped before him just by a few paces “You dare sit on my throne!?” Silas hissed. The Astartes shrugged “It’s a disgusting throne but I am sitting on it to make a point Silas.” Silas narrowed his eyes hearing his strange voice again confirmed it “So tell me traitor, have you come to beg to serve me?”

Silas is confident after the past eight years he could kill everyone here, he gripped his power blade tightly. Adelram relaxed in his chair it annoyed Silas the way he sat is like he has always owned the seat. That it’s merely an ordinary chair to him “No Silas, I have come to get back what is mine.”
Silas raised his stormbolter, Adelram yawned at his gesture “you were a fool to come here. Funny enough I was going to seek you out thank you for making it easy.” Adelram tapped the arm of his chair he yawned again “Silas, lower your weapon before you displease me.” Silas mind felt strange a part of him wanted to obey the order but a greater part raged at the audacity.Silas shook his head “you were always a fool. You are not going to have the other traitors try and stop me?” Adelram looked over to them “no, because I could easily kill you by myself if I wanted to.” Silas laughed “look at you! So sure of yourself now!? I bet it’s fear… you hoped to ambush me.. To take my life..”

Silas readied to fire “if you can easily kill me… do it.” Just as he was about to fire Adelram raised his finger he flicked downwards. Silas suddenly felt a great weight on his body he crashed to his knees. He began panting erratically “w-what was that?” Adelram rose from his throne he began walking around him it was like he was picking him apart. Silas tried to move his arms they were like lead weights. Silas hissed “sorcery!? Damn you!” Adelram sighed in annoyance “I am just using telekensis. If I used sorcery there would be none of you left.” he then clapped his hands together has he returned in front of him “right Silas I will give you a single chance to aplogise of your own will. Refuse and I will make you.” Silas blinked he chuckled “apologize? For what!? You are the traitor!” Adelram shook his head sighing “you are always like this…” Adelram went to his blade drawing a broken sword. Silas blinked wondering what he is going to do with that he stared at the broken weapon after a second of staring purple lighting crackled over it. The missing part of the blade was filled with a shimmering pink light reforming the blade. Adelram nodded “right let’s get started.”
Adelram casually shoved the blade into his body, Silas roared in pain it was like all his nerves were on fire. His organs felt like they were melting. Silas looked down to his chest his armour is not damaged but it’s like an actual blade has pierced his body. Adelram twisted his blade blood and bile began filling his mouth. The pain is excruciating he could not take it.

Silas yelped “s-stop!” Adelram shook his head he removed his hand from the blade. Silas gasped it did not hurt as much anymore but the burning sensation is still there. He watched Adelram beckon over a slave “you come over.” The slave slowly walked over head cast downwards.
Adelram shook his head in annoyance “look up when I speak to you.” The slave gulped and looked up he is trembling. Silas panted he tried to rise but his whole body still felt extremely heavy. Adelram nodded “so what’s your name?” The slave blinked in surprise “what? Y-you want to know my name?” He looked over to the other slaves in the room who were trembling in their corners. He looked up to Adelram “J-Jonathan my lord..” Adelram looked back down to Silas. Silas wondered what he was planning with the slave. Adelram pointed at his sword handle. “Grab it with both hands.” The slave looked frantically at him and then to Adelram, Silas hissed “don’t you dare…” Adelram patted the slave’s head “tell me Jonathan do you hate what my brother did to you? Don’t be scared I am taking over the warband you have my permission to aid in punishing him.” Silas watched the slave slowly nod “H-he killed my sister..” Adelram pointed at the blade again “so grasp the blade if you hate what he did to her.” The slaved grabbed the handle with both hands. Adelram then placed his hand over his he helped him push the blade it deeper. Silas seized up due to the pain he gasped “N-no!” They began twisting. Silas vomited in his helmet.

He slowly sagged to the floor, before he fell to the ground Adelram removed the blade. The slave looked to his hand “t-that felt..” Adelram nodded “felt good didn’t it? You may go back to your spot.” Slave nodded and walked back slowly.
Silas gasped “w-what… do you want?” Adelram deactivated the blade he tapped the broken weapon in his hands “the gods can give and they can take away. That is what I am also teaching you. All that you built will soon vanish in these next few moments. Plus you haven’t apologised.” Darkness began coiling in his hands he launched it at him. Silas cried in agony the darkness was tearing at his mind every part of his body felt like a thousand swords are stabbing into him. Blood trailed from his eyes and nose. Silas cried out “I am sorry!” The pain stopped. Adelram chuckled “what did you say Silas? I could not hear it..” Silas gasped“I am sorry…”

Adelram nodded “Good. Now it’s time to call everyone together.” Silas watched Adelram finally remove his helmet revealing his face. A strange sort of sensation gripped him his mind warred at the horror for refusing him. All he worked for all his built came tumbling down within his mind. Silas tried to speak “Ade-” Adelram released another surge of darkness at him Silas roared in agony. Adelram hissed “you don’t get to refer me to my name. Not you. It’s my lord or master from now on unless I decide otherwise.” The pain stopped, Silas sagged on the ground “Y-yes my lord..”
Adelram sighed heavily “right time to call the warband together…” Marthas walked to the docking bay area he received a distress call directing them to there. He noticed other Astartes walking to the docking bay it concerned him that Silas would send such a signal. If he is using such a signal something must of happened or there has been trouble on the station. Upon reaching the docking bay he could see almost the whole warband was here.

Marthas moved to the front of the crowd he looked around in confusion. Even the slaves were wondering why all the Astartes are gathered in one spot. Then out of a side hall he saw familiar figures holding Silas, Tarkhan, Sebastian and Marius. They set Silas in front of them he was not wearing his helmet either. Silas’ face looked ashen what shocked him even more is that blood and bile covered his face. Finally out of the side hall he saw him with a familiar human walking at his side. Marthas’ hearts constricted upon seeing his visage a mix of shock and horror gripped him. Then he felt drawn for some reason. Marthas looked around everyone was roughly holding the same outlook as he did. Adelram walked to the middle of the hall he held a power sword in one hand. He coughed his voice was far more gentle “all of you are wondering what’s going on? Well if you weren’t there on Califa I stated that I will come back for my ship. Silas presumed he was above me so I cast him down as you can see here.” Marthas looked at Silas he looked utterly defeated.

Adelram continued speaking “but I understand all your concerns. I left when perhaps you needed me most. Still I had an obligation.” He gestured to the human wearing the skull helmet. Marthas mouthed slowly “Beleth….” Adelram nodded “now, I am sure many of you think me as a traitor.. So I will give you my dear brothers an opportunity..” Adelram walked over to the first Astartes in the crowd he held the blade handle towards them “You think me a traitor, I just defeated your leader. So if you will it you can fight for your right to lead… unless you wish me to?” Marthas watched the Astartes stare at the blade and then to Adelram. He shook his head and stepped back to Marthas’ shock. Adelram moved through the crowd everyone refused something which puzzled him. Until finally Adelram approached him. Marthas stared at the blade handle he then looked into Adelram’s eyes. Marthas gulped his heart raged with the opportunity now presented in front him but his mind trashed about it told him if he grasped that blade handle he will die. He will die in a miserable and pathetic fashion. Marthas felt the strange emotion clinging to him it soon shifted to terror as he shook his head and stepped back.

Adelram’s eyes fluttered slightly before moving to the next Astartes like he was daring him to change his mind. In reaction Marthas clenched his hands in frustration. When he finished Adelram returned to his original position. He shook his head in almost annoyance “So I left you. You yell and curse my name yet none of you wish to lead!? None of you want to take this position from me!? Weaklings! Fools! Silas stifled you! Weakned you!” Adelram’s features turned dark Marthas’ hearts jumped as he shouted “Who wishes to lead! I ask one final time!”
Marthas looked around everyone either looked away or cast their eyes downward. Adelram handed the power blade to Beleth. He crossed his arms “So it’s unanimous you want the traitor you hate to lead you… if that’s the case I want all you to kneel now…” Marthas’ mouth felt dry as he spoke it’s like someone has gripped his heart. He needed to obey he had to. Marthas eyed Silas their work these past eight years were crumbling. Marthas watched as one by one Astartes got to their knees. Some in fear others in adoration. Finally he found himself the remaining one standing. Adelram’s eyes bore into him looking at his face and his eyes he felt a mix of those emotions that are now displaying on the faces of the bowing Astartes. Marthas looked at Silas one last time before slowly dropping to his knees.

Adelram smiled “Marthas come over.” Marthas jolted when his name was called he licked his lips and he slowly rose. He walked over slowly “Adel-” Adelram narrowed his eyes at him he reassessed his words “M-my lord, what do you wish of me?” Adelram nodded “Marthas where are my servants?” Marthas clenched his hands “the navigator… is.. Safe. The rest are unknown when we took control many fled to the lower levels never to be seen again.” Adelram stroked his chin “I see…” Adelram turned to Tarkhan, Sebastian and Marius “I want everyone to know I lead. Even the humans.” They all inclined their heads in acknowledgement. Adelram stared Marthas “Go help Silas clean up. I will speak with you again once I locate my servants.” Marthas nodded “Yes my lord..” Adelram then briskly walked away with Beleth not uttering another word. Marthas looked at Silas it’s clear he was not aiming to kill him but if this is what he could do without killing someone he wondered what he is like when he is actually trying to kill them.Adelram walked to the navigator throne everything went smoothly as he stared at each Astartes he saw a mix of adoration to utter horror. Asriel looked up to him a pale tail exited his cloak playing with a knife “are you sure none will betray you?” Adelram smiled “perhaps but I am sure if some do you will take care of it?” Asriel chuckled “is that free rein I hear?”

Adelram held his grin “perhaps, but I doubt any would try they either fear of admire me too much.” Adelram looked around the ship “I think some renovation needs to be done. The walls of the ship look far too plain.” Asriel inclined his head “we can work upon that after everyone is located.” Adelram sighed in response to that statement when Marthas stated that Elizabeth is safe and considering how much of a crude beast he is Silas must of ruined her in some form. They made their way to the doors of where the navigator throne is kept. Adelram opened the doors the smell that greeted him caused him to frown slightly. He could see Elizabeth bound to the throne a metal band is covering her head. Her dress is dirty and soiled while two slaves are forcing food into his mouth. Her eyes are fluttering clearly showing she is not sure where she is. As he took a single step into the room the slaves dropped their spoons and fell to their knees. Adelram looked down at them he thought of destroying them utterly for mistreating his Elizabeth. Darkness began coiling around his frame he thought about it for a moment he then realised Elizabeth’s state rests at the feet of Silas.

He dismissed the energy and strode to the throne. He tore of the bindings which caused her to react she tried to frantically get up from the chair. Adelram held her in place he whispered “it’s alright… it’s me..” Elizabeth panted she slowly bought her eyes to him her face drifted to terror for a moment and then she uncontrollably started to weep. “W-where have you b-been?” Adelram stroked her head as she wept, she coiled up to him. “T-they b-bound me here. I had to soil myself h-here.. They f-forced food into m-my mouth..”
Adelram gently smiled “you did well to endure it… I am here now. Things will be better..” Adelram looked up to Asriel “we are going to a spare room to help her clean up. Then we will go to the lower levels.” Adelram hefted Elizabeth in both his arms he looked down to the bowing slaves “I want this room spotless when I return. If I find a spec of dirt I will kill both of you.”

The slaves bowed their heads low “y-yes my lord!” Adelram walked away with Asriel.

Adelram stared at Elizabeth now sleeping in a bed her skin smooth, oiled and in fresh clothes. Adelram moved her hair slightly seeing her clean now it’s like she hasn’t been bound for a single day. Adelram nodded “let’s go to the lower levels we need to find them.” Asriel responded “right, I am sure we can find them quite quickly if we use witch sight.” Adelram walked to the door “indeed, if they are still on the ship we can find them.” Adelram walked out into the hall with Asriel. They made their way to the lower level steps. Salvador picked his nose in annoyance he sat in this same spot waiting for those foolish enough to come this way. He stared an Astartes he killed, he has already devoured the gene-seed. Something which infuriates Caius but he has to eat considering what he is he requires far more food something which is scarce. Salvador grumbled “I want brother and master to come home already…” Salvador scratched his head he dislikes wearing this cloak but Luke said doing so would surprise anyone coming this way. His ear moved slightly as he heard footsteps entering the hall. He growled in annoyance he wondered how many times he has done this now he rose while turning to face the invaders “leave now or die!” Salvador then heard a response their voice gentle like silk “you should be careful while addressing me...” Salvador instantly tore off the cloak he blinked at the two figures before him.

The Astartes scared him slightly but he looked warming and inviting at the same time the human took off his helmet revealing a face. Seeing the face almost made him cry. He looked up at the Astartes again the familiarity coming back he cried out “Master! Brother!” His hooved boomed on the ground as he charged towards his brother. His brother raised his eyebrow “wha-” Salvador grasped him in a giant hug he began weeping “it’s been so hard without you here! I tried! I tried to keep everyone safe!” His brother gasped “S-Salvador… you are squeezing me… too tightly..” Salvador blinked “oh sorry.” He released him and placed him gently on the ground.

His tail moved erratically as he looked to his lord “Lord you have come back!” Adelram smiled “lower your head Salvador.” Salvador did has he bade he then stroked his head it was a pleasant sort of feeling. Adelram held his smile “you look so beautiful now Salvador…” Salvador squinted his eyes “w-what do you mean? All the Astartes that come down here call me a ugly beast..” Salvador watched as a scowl play across his wonderful features “I-I am s-sorry if I offended you...” Adelram shook his head “my brothers know nothing if they call you ugly. You are far from that take it from me my dear Salvador you look wonderful.” Adelram moved his hand away “now where is everyone?” Salvador pointed down the hall he guarded “they are through there. I think they will be happy to see you! Follow me!” Salvador trotted towards the hall he pointed out his master and brother followed behind him. Adelram looked up to Salvador he now has wonderful white fur, oiled horns. The dark prince has done remarkable work on his servant. Salvador is grinning ear to ear as they walked what he found interesting most of all is his soul. It rages like a beast but there is a human intelligence behind it but it seems frozen at that of his eighteen year old self. Still Adelram is pleased he has not changed despite his wonderful looks. As they walked the halls he saw humans huddling they looked at him in awe like how one would stare at a breathtaking statue. Walking the lower levels his mind raced with renovation ideas. They soon came upon a large hall there were people at tables eating slop upon looking at him they froze. At the centre was a large table he saw familiar figures in discussion.

As they heard Salvador’s footsteps a women perked up “Salvador! You should be on guard! Wh-” She then bought her eyes to him tears trailed down her face “Adelram…?” Her partner Luke shook his head “he is here.. Unbelievable…” Adelram also spotted Caius who released a stream of binary in response to him entering the room. Adelram inclined his head to Lily “Greetings, I have come to retrieve all of you.” Lily shook her head “you just walk in like nothing happened…” Salvador frowned “I thought all of you would be happy?” Asriel tapped his chest “Dear brother it’s shock just like how you almost crushed me upon seeing me.” Salvador tapped his chin “I see..”

Adelram walked up to the table “I control the warband again. All of you will be brought up to the upper levels.” Caius nodded in what looked to be elation “I am eager to return to my workshop. So many crude materials down here…” Lily slammed her hands on the table “N-no! You can’t just do that! I had to raise my boys in this muck! Everyday I had to worry about food!” Luke gestured “Lily please.. I am sure our Lord had his reasons..” Lily wiped her eyes, Adelram frowned “yes I had my reasons your circumstances will now change. I thought you would be happy?” Adelram walked over to Lily he held her face “are you angry with me?” Adelram watched her eyes dilate slightly “N-no.. not anymore. I am sorry for my outburst..” Adelram lowered her face he nodded “good. Now where is Isabella and Camila?” Upon asking for them they came from a side room holding pots of food. Looking at him and Asriel they both dropped the pots in shock. Camila ran over and hugged him tightly she began weeping “your back… I-I…” Adelram pushed her back slightly her face is dirty but she still bore that same fragile look he liked. He looked up to see Isabella walking over rubbing her arm. Her dress is now incredibly dirty he gave her a gentle smile “I am surprised you endured this..” Isabella’s mouth trembled slightly she coughed “I-I can handle anything.. If I could not handle this how would I do my work?”

Adelram pushed camila back slightly he walked over to Isabella held her and kissed her on the forehead she trembled as his lips parted her forehead “the hard days are over. You can live like a queen again soon.” Isabella nodded slowly tears ran down her face “y-yes my lord.” Adelram then looked around “where is Isira?” Upon mentioning her name everyone gained a dejected look. Lily shook her head “Adelram… you need to see her. Follow me.” Adelram gestured to Asriel “come. We will follow Lily.” Asriel nodded “right, Salvador we will catch up later.” Salvaded smiled “right.”
Adelram follow Lily into a side hall he wondered why everyone looked depressed upon hearing her name.

Isira stared at Jimmy making a cup of soup, his matted hair dirty with grease his clothes torn and dirty from living in the lower levels. Her state was worse of all constantly her mind is wracked wondering why he abandoned them. When Silas came to take over, when he began murdering all those that served lord Adelram they took flight to the lower levels. Jimmy turned bringing the hot cup forward, she had no strength to even sit up. Jimmy hefted her up, her grey hair swayed at the motion. Isira bought her eyes to her loose and wrinkled skin seeing her arms pained her and it reminded her of his abandonment. Jimmy blew over the cup to disperse the heat he slowly brought it to her lips.

She sipped the horrid soup, a small amount of bile came to her throat as it moved down towards her stomach. She gasped with a rasp “e-enough…” Jimmy shook his head “you need to eat something.” Isira could barely move her hand she wanted to push him away “J-Jimmy I-I w-want to die..” Jimmy’s eyes lit up with pure horror. Isira felt her body weakening further and further it was like she is crumbling to dust. She has lived far beyond her time. She gave up hope of him ever coming back, even so Jimmy still tried to feed her he always came to feed her. This cycle repeating again and again until she eventually crumbles away.

Isira then heard a knock on the door her brow furrowed this is different no one came to visit her save Jimmy. He slowly layed her back down on the bed he then placed the cup to one side and walked over to the door. As he opened the door he staggered back in clear shock, Isira slowly moved her head to see an Astartes has now entered her room. Jimmy stammered while bowing “m-my lord.” The Astartes gave him one look “leave now.” Jimmy bowed again before making his way out of the room.
Isira tried to clench her fists in anger but she could not even muster the strength for such an action. She wanted to yell at him, hit him for leaving her. Yet even as he walked over even if he now looks absolutely wonderful and terrifying her anger would not subside. She rapsed “A-Adelram… why did you come?” Adelram knelt down in front of her bed.

She could not even cry her heart raged with anger “w-why d-did you leave?” he just stared at her with his void like eyes like nothing has happened. To him it’s like not even a day has gone by. His silence angered her even more she tried to reach up to hit him yet her arm could not move.
What angered her further is that deep down she knew the reason why he left why he dropped everything. Letting her suffer all these years “y-you abadonded m-me f-for h-him?” Isira watched his brow twitch slightly her reasoning was spot on. Confirming it made her just want to die to leave she had enough. The person she loves is gone completely and utterly.

As those thoughts passed her mind she felt a surge of pain in her mind and body she coughed heavily “I-I want to d-die..” she rasped. She watched Adelram’s brow furrow again if she displeased him she no longer cared. Adelram slowly broke into a smile she did not know what to make of it but watching that smile terrified her his next words frightened her even more “I will not let you go…” She watched as Adelram grasped her head with his hands pain began erupting in her mind. She had no strength to struggle all she could do is give a shrill scream. Asriel watched the door he stood with Jimmy and Lily, they all heard the screams the purple lights flashing under the door yet they did nothing. Asriel could not even muster an ounce of care he just wondered what is taking him so long. Jimmy frowned heavily “what is he doing to her?” Asriel scratched his head “does it matter? He can do what he wants.”

Lily turned to him clear surprise displaying on her features “do you hear yourself? We have been suffering for years!?” Asriel grew cross he saw her, how she reacted when Adelram paid her a fraction of his attention “yes you say that Lily but I saw how you looked at him. For a moment you entirely forget about your partner.” Lily bit back her next remark she simply folded her arms. As the screams ended and the light died Adelram stepped out of the room holding the hand of a woman. Asriel raised his eyebrow as she cast her head down slightly her hair is now black, her skin is now pale instead of pink. Asriel also caught shimmering blue eyes. More than anything the woman’s features are now like a statue, aquiline in beauty. She did not utter a single word. Adelram smiled “Asriel.” Asriel raised his eyebrow “yes?” Adelram stared at him intently “Isira will be living with you from now on.” Asriel rubbed his neck wondering what he is planning “very well.” Adelram began walking down the hall “gather everyone we are returning to the upper levels...”

Asriel nodded his tail swished slightly from under his cloak startling Lily for a moment his mind then raced wondering how things will change from now on.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/23 13:20:38


Post by: Dayknight


The epilogue confused me. I thought it was over, was so hype when I saw the next chapter! I hope Marthas finds redemption, he was one of my favorite's.



Edit: Also isira in asriel's chambers? hmmmmmmm


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/24 00:13:30


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:
The epilogue confused me. I thought it was over, was so hype when I saw the next chapter! I hope Marthas finds redemption, he was one of my favorite's.



Edit: Also isira in asriel's chambers? hmmmmmmm


Hmmm indeed.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/24 00:13:55


Post by: shinros


Chapter 17

Marthas watched Silas brood, pacing in his old room. It’s dusty from not being used, the mounted blades, weapons and icons dedicated to the dark prince. Since being cleaned up it’s clear that he is trying to formulate a plan. “We can’t let him do this!?” Marthas shook his head in disagreement “we already have. We already allowed him to take control barely lifting a finger to stop him.” Silas clenched his hands, Marthas could see he knows this he knows more than anyone what Adelram is now potentially capable of. What he is not handling well is all his work, no all their work crumbling into dust.”What of Naberius and Sitri? Where are they!?” Marthas thought on both of them he received word they are coming to visit Silas. Knowing who both of them serve their allegiances could change.“They already sent word they are on their way. I imagine they are just as surprised as you.”

Silas grumbled at his words his frustration still bleeding off his body “I am not afraid of him… I the most perfect in this warband… I cannot be afraid of him..” Marthas could not help but sigh at his words. In their minds they are telling themselves that they should not fear him but their hearts, their very bodies says otherwise. Whatever Adelram has done in the past eight years as drove terror and adoration into the very heart of the warband. The fact that he now leads them and they follow him they will be marked out as traitors also and be hunted like dogs. Marthas decided to bring the subject to what they do know about their “new” lord. “You recall that the neverborn stated he is one of the dark prince's lovers. What do you make of that now?” Silas grunted in annoyance “the daemon is most likely lying to agitate us! What would a god, the perfect god see in him!?” Marthas could not help but somewhat agree, Adelram did not learn from his failures he kept repeating them again and again, blunder after blunder and instead of doing the will of the one most regarded by the dark prince he followed his own.

Marthas heard the doors of Silas’ room opening, Naberius and Sitri walked in. Naberius shook his head in clear annoyance “my lords you let him take the warband!? Just like that!?” Silas roared in anger “I know! Dammit! I am thinking of what to do. Father placed his trust in me to lead! It’s ordained! Just give me time…” Sitri shrugged “the great one hasn’t said anything so let’s be patient for now.” Marthas raised his eyebrow in surprise “that is strange coming from you…” Sitri stuck her tongue out at him “perhaps the great one is assessing the situation. That’s just what I think.” Marthas stroked his chin, he began wondering perhaps the Phoenician is planning on how to take care of Adelram. He has not let his displeasure known yet so there might be more going on. Naberius ground his teeth “no he is a usurper that went against the great Phoenix! He should be dealt with!” Silas shouted “enough!” Marthas bought his eyes to Silas “what do you mean?”

Silas spoke firmly “for now we wait, we gather those who would want to oust Adelram and then move against him.” Marthas smiled “that’s a sound plan, we can’t let him ruin all our work.” As those words parted his lips he felt a voice pressing into his mind gently “Marthas, I want to see you come to my chamber. Bring Silas with you.” A bead of cold sweat suddenly went down his brow, Marthas shook his head. Silas clearly saw his discomfort “What is it?” Marthas bit his lip “he wants to see us in his chamber.” Silas growled “he means my chamber!” Naberius nodded “I will go with you. I will see this traitor for myself!” Marthas shook his head, Adelram as he is now is unpredictable knowing Naberius he may say something out of turn. “N-” Silas nodded “come with us. You are a representative of our father. Your voice may carry some weight.” Marthas took a step forward “we don’t know what he will do Silas!” Silas shook his head in response “He caught me by surprise the first time! It won’t happen again…” Marthas slowly started to feel anxious he turned to face the door “let us go then… we don’t want to keep him waiting.” As Marthas left the room with Naberius and Silas he found that cold sweat is still lining his brow.

Marthas stood in front of the chamber doors with Silas and Naberius he nodded to them before pushing them open. As they walked in he saw a giant beastmen with Beleth at work making a metal circular dugout around the room. The dugout is being filled with soil. Marthas could see that Silas is in shock with what he is doing with his chamber. Marthas drew in a breath before approaching, Adelram stood in the middle of the room watching Beleth and the Beastman work. Adelram smiled upon them approaching him “so you came, good I wanted to ta-” Naberius spoke up “How do you feel about defying your father traitor?” Naberius continued “don’t you understand the ram-” Marthas watched Adelram furrowing his brow it was a slight twitch he then raised his hand at Naberius.

Naberius began vomiting blood. His body began ballooning his skin stretching to unnatural proportions. Marthas blinked in shock in what was happening before him until a moment later Naberius exploded in a shower of blood and gore, covering half of Silas’ terminator armour. After this happened Silas stared at the ruination that was Naberius for a moment he slowly he looked up to Adelram. Marthas could see all his bravado and plotting is bleeding away second by second. Marthas faced Adelram who gave a heavy frown “I did not ask him to be here and he was being rude.” Marthas gulped as the cheerful smile returned to Adelram’s face like nothing happened “Now why I called both of you here.”Marthas nodded slowly “yes Ad- I mean my lord I am wondering why you called us.” Adelram inclined his head towards him “you see I wanted to ask why you did not come with me Marthas.” Marthas’ eyes went wide at his words he had to be careful in these next few moments. Adelram pointed at Silas “I fully understand why he did not come with me. But you? I expected you to stand at my side. Considering you were “friends” with Asriel also.” Marthas looked at Beleth, no Asriel now. That is what Adelram is calling him. There is a chance Adelram could be picking up surface thoughts he wanted to avoid offending him in anyway.

Asriel is merely humming as he is picking up the remains of Naberius and throwing them into the soil. He looked up “is something wrong Marthas? Why do you look so pale?” Adelram nodded in assent to Asriel’s words “I don’t know. Tell me Marthas what are you frightened of?” Marthas clenched his eyes shut he swore to himself, Marthas stared into Asriel’s black eyes he got a strange feeling he just wanted to see him squirm in front of Adelram. Marthas could see his grand work falling to pieces again it pained him greatly “M-my lord I am just getting used to you being in charge again.” Adelram tapped his lips blinking if musing on a subject “I see.” Marthas gulped “now your previous question?” Adelram smiled while lowering his hands it’s like he is reading him like a book “yes please answer my question.”

Marthas wondered what he should say after the eight years he came around to Silas’ thinking he agreed with him wholeheartedly. So what should he say in these moments? Marthas breathed in and then out “you recall Silas’ problems with you in the past?” Adelram nodded, Marthas continued “I… agreed with him. Losing all my work in a slave revolt… it pained me greatly. I listened to Silas’ words they made sense. I wanted to give you a chance but your choice on Califa sealed it.” Marthas waited for Adelram’s response, his hearts thundered in his chest. What chilled him to the bone is that Adelram gave him a heart warming smile “I see.. So looking at me now do you think I made the wrong choice?” Marthas stared at Adelram’s face he drew it in you would be a fool to deny that you can’t see the favour of the dark prince etched upon his face or perhaps his whole body. Marthas clenched his eyes shut “I-I made a mistake..”

He slowly opened them to see Adelram nodding in approval. He then bought his eyes to Silas who began figiting slightly “so Silas what do you have to say for yourself?” His terminator helmet tilted slightly “w-what do you mean?” Marthas’ hearts began pounding again when Adelram frowned. “I mean how are you going to take responsibility for poisoning Marthas’ mind?” Silas stammered in response “r-responsibility?” Adelram nodded while still holding his frown “Yes. Do I have to explain it to you? Apologize to Marthas.” Marthas could see that Adelram is now pointing at him frowning. Silas turned to face him he grumbled “I-I am sorry.” Adelram pouted in annoyance he spoke firmly “is that how you apologize to someone?”

Marthas watched Silas nervously sigh “I am sorry Marthas for poisoning your mind.” Adelram grumbled his voice distorted as he shouted “Not good enough!” Marthas began sweating heavily. Adelram began tapping his chin “maybe I should use both of you as fertilizer for my flowers? It might require a lot blood to replicate the ones I saw in her realm.” Marthas’ breathing started to become hoarse he recalled the daemons words he is one of his lovers. Is there a ghost of a chance he met a god? There are legends and texts of his realm. Marthas watched Silas’ hands shake slightly he bowed as much as he can with the terminator armour the gore and blood slouching off his armour as he said. “Marthas I humbly apologize for misdirecting you. I was not thinking clearly. All I cared about were my own selfish interests not recognising that perhaps Adelram was on the correct path…” Adelram began clapping while smiling “that’s better…”

Silas rose he faced Adelram in silence. Marthas did not know what to make of the situation what is happening now is pure madness. Adelram stopped clapping he gave a dark smile “you know, I have been thinking. How about we go kill Salazar?” Marthas’ eyes almost bulged outside his head “t-that would be madness! He is in favour with Eidolon!” Silas shouted “y-you idiot!” Marthas watched as darkness began seeping out of Adelram’s armour, his countenance turned grim “what do you mean madness? Don’t talk to me about sanity Marthas… never… do... that.. you understand?” Marthas instantly bowed a dribble of sweat hitting a small puddle of blood “apologies for my overstep! I will be eager to kill the perfect sons!” Marthas slowly rose to see the darkness has now vanished and Adelram is now smiling again “aplopogly accepted. You know I am deciding to do this more for you than me. This place is too orderly, everyone frowning all the time so I think murdering our brothers would be the perfect pass time!”

Marthas blinked, A horrific grin played across Adelram’s face“to feel the despair of slaying brothers, to drink of their shocked reactions, to devour an cut at the guts of those who should be “family”!” Adelram reached over to touch his face Marthas flinched “don’t worry you will enjoy it trust me..” Adelram turned away “both of you are dismissed.” Marthas breathed out a small sigh of relief, he could also see Silas is relaxing somewhat. As they began to walk away Adelram called out “Silas!” Silas froze as he turned back slowly “Yes my lord?” Adelram turned his head back slightly he frowned “you will spruce up your armour by the time we attack Salazar’s warband, it looks disgusting.” Silas inclined his head “it will be done..” Marthas then walked out of the chamber with Silas.

They stood outside the door, blood still dripping off Silas’ armour. Marthas’ hearts clenched in his chest he did not know what to say in this moment. Silas shook his head slowly “what have we gotten ourselves into?” Marthas could not help but wipe his brow in response “I don’t know…” Salazar ate another of his treats they were made from the agonised blood and tears of slaves. He relaxed on his throne within his chamber, full of esoteric paintings and statues. He could see Taina waiting at attention her mask shimmering in the light. They made all the slaves wear masks, since looking at there faces is far more disgusting. Better that they wear masks.

Salazar picked up another treat from the bowl and threw it into his mouth. He mused on the past since the operation failed on Califa Lord Commander Eidolon has requested his warband for several operations. Since then his standing has grown and resources flow in abundance. Salazar smiled “things should be this way… for we are perfect.” Salazar knew that Eidolon turned to him since his warband is pure. It’s made of pure third stock and it does not draw in mongrels of other legions.

In the end that’s the only aspect he and Eidolon do not see eye to eye allowing members of other legions to join them. It dilutes the perfect third. Salazar was about to throw another treat into his mouth until he heard the ship alarm chiming. He scowled “who dares to attack us?” Salazar rose from his chair soon as he did so his chambers door opened. His new champion Anthony bowed deeply “My lord. As you know we are under attack.” Salazar hissed “by who!?” Anthony stammered his response “S-silas warband is attacking us..” Salazar furrowed his brow in confusion “why would he do that!?” Anthony rose shaking his head “I don’t know! But they are launching their dreadclaws at the ship!” Salazar mumbled in annoyance “prepare the defense that fool will get what’s coming for him…” Anthony bowed again before leaving.

Salazar drew his blade he made his way to walk out of the room, he stopped and stared at Taina who stood at attention as always “Prepare more treats before I return.” Taina bowed “Yes my lord.” Salazar switched on the power field of his blade sighing in annoyance “time to take out the trash…” Marthas hopped out of the dreadclaw with Adelram, Tarkhan and Sebastian. Adelram gave a chilling chuckle “isn’t this fun Marthas?” Marthas had to stop himself shaking his head in disagreement he just wanted to get this over with quickly and hope that Eidolon does not send warbands after them. Tarkhan began laughing “it’s time to kill real opponents it’s been so long!” Sebastian nodded in agreement “indeed it would be good to show the perfect sons how far from perfection they actually are…”

Marthas stared in shock at both of them, they seem eager to kill not even realizing the consequences. Marthas sighed he readied his plasma pistol and Eligos. He pointed down the hall with his weapon “Salazar’s chambers should be nearby. We landed close enough.” Adelram nodded “good, Silas with some of our forces along with Marius will move to taking the bridge.” Adelram began casually walking down the hall “let’s go.” Marthas bit his lip slightly as he followed Adelram with Tarkhan and Sebastian.

Silas stabbed another of the perfect sons his cape bellowing as he moved. The Astartes gasped “w-what a-are…” The perfect son fell slack unto his blade. Silas removed his weapon another charged to his side he raised his arm firing his stormbolter at the Astartes. The bolter shells thumped into their chest staggering them. Another shell cracked into their head turning it into red mist. It was strange when Adelram announced what they were going to do he was shocked, terrified of Eidolon’s wrath. But killing them, stabbing them and shooting them to pieces he is oddly enjoying it. Watching the shock in their eyes, the despair at how they could fall to one such as him. Silas eyed the jewels that covered his arm they are glistening as droplets of blood drip off them.

Marius came by with his noise marines, Silas watched as his mouth unhinged from their joints as he released a sonic wail tearing asunder several Astartes. He licked his lips “fun isn’t it?” Silas did not want to agree with him, but every perfect son he kills that tingling sensation won’t go away. “It is…” They slowly worked their way to the bridge, the nice thing is that the perfect sons did not expect their attack so they had the element of surprise. Silas killed the last defenders with Marius they finally walked on the bridge. Even wearing masks he could see their fear, it's clearly displayed on their bodies. Silas looked at Adelram’s name he blinked to open the channel all he heard was the screams of mortals and Astartes “My lord we are on the bridge. It’s secured.” Adelram’s voice purred through his helmet “do whatever you want Silas.”

Silas titled his head “whatever I want…?” the communication suddenly clicked off. Marius chuckled “I guess he said we can do what we want?” Silas nodded “yes.” Marius smiled he opened his mouth again and released a crackling cry at the captain turning him into paste. Silas looked to his stormbolter he smiled “whatever I want…” Silas pointed his stormbolter at one of the bridge staff and began firing. Marthas crushed another Astartes with Eligos caving in their head he panted his hearts twisted a part of him is enjoying this. He recalled that Salazar has in the past been trying to block them in gaining favour with Eidolon. He raised his pistol and shot an Astartes boring a hole in their chest. Mathas placed his eyes on Adelram who is hacking the Astartes apart like children, what troubled him even more is that he has not used his psychic powers yet.

Tarkhan and Sebastian are also at Adelram’s side protecting his flanks he wondered did he even need it. Marthas ran up to them “we are almost to his chambers!” Adelram laughed “good, good… I am eager to greet Salazar again.” As they killed the last Astartes in the hall they ran on. They made a turn into the last hall leading to Salazar’s chambers and at the doors there he stood. Marthas eyed Salazar with his honour guard and champion. Salazar shook his head in annoyance “are you aware of what you are doing!?” Adelram chuckled “yes Salazar I am…” Marthas watched Salazar’s eyes go wide he looked to him “so you let the traitor lead you again. May I ask why?” Adelram turned his head slightly to him “Yes Marthas why don’t you tell him why you follow me again?”

Marthas cursed he tried to speak as firmly as he can “I made a mistake in the past Salazar. My lord’s will is the destruction of your warband so shall it be done.” Adelram nodded at his words “there you have it Salazar.” Salazar ground his teeth “you can’t kill me… I am perfect compared to you mongrels!” Marthas gripped his weapon whenever he speaks he annoys him the more he hears his voice the more glad that he is going to die. Adelram raised his weapon the psychic blade turned black with dark energy “you are not perfect Salazar. I have seen perfection and you nowhere near it. To hear your say such a thing for you to give your warband such a name is an affront to the dark prince.” Adelrem released tendrils of dark energy in hall. Marthas could see they are trying to dodge out of the way but the tendrils moved like they had a life of it’s own.

The black tendrils darted and moved matching their speed, Marthas watched as one by one they fell to the ground Adelram hissing mad prayers to the dark prince in the dark tongue. Marthas drew all of this in watching the perfect sons agony, watching Salazar’s despair as Adelram’s sorcery gripped him. When all of them crumpled to the ground screaming Marthas found a large smile playing across his features. Salazar’s eyes sagged open he panted he tasted blood in his mouth. He found he was on his knees looking at his own throne. Salazar’s eyes darted around the room he saw Marthas standing with the traitor who sat on his throne. If he moved his neck he would feel a small sting two blades were at his neck. Salazar licked his lips “Tell me traitor… as I said before are you aware of what you are doing?” The traitor nodded “indeed I am.” he removed helmet displaying a face to his disgust took his breath away.

Salazar roared “why do you look like that!? The dark prince should of punished you for your treachery!?” The traitor shrugged “you are the one being punished plus I was bored.” The traitor picked a treat from his bowl he flicked it into his mouth. His face screwed into disgust as he spat it out and wiped his lips “this… tastes foul…”

The traitor called out “Tarkhan, take off his head cleanly I want to use it as fertilizer I thought about letting him live for a moment but his treats offended my mouth.” Salazar began panting “n-no I won’t die like this! I-” He felt a sharp pain on his neck for a moment he found that he is looking at himself, soon he could not breathe he felt his eyes rolling back. Adelram stared at Salazar’s head he looked up at Marthas “do you feel happy that he is dead?” Marthas stared at him shifting slightly “y-yes.” Adelram smiled “look at you being honest. I saw your face as you killed the perfect sons.” he gave Marthas a coy smile “trust me Marthas more fun will be had just relax.” Marthas inclined his head as he said firmly “Yes my lord.” Adelram looked around the room he saw Salazar’s slave he pointed “You!” She flinched “Y-yes m-my lord?” Adelram nodded “remove your mask now.” The slave’s hands were shaking as she slowly removed her mask. She cast her head down as she dropped it on the floor. Adelram leaned back in the throne “come over please.”

The slave trembled as she walked to the front of the throne head cast downwards. Adelram hefted her face up it looked bruised from beatings and abuse. He frowned “so insecure….” Adelram touched the slave’s face. Her face slowly healed until there was not a single blemish left. “There… let me tell you that you are far more beautiful than my brother… he most likely beat you because he could not take it.” The slave smiled “t-thank you m-” Adelram then gripped her necking breaking it instantly “now you are beautiful as you go to the dark prince.” The slave crumpled to the ground. Adelram yawned as he got up from the throne he rubbed his eye as the emptiness came roaring back in cascades “hmm, I am getting bored again…” Tarkhan bowed “Khan how about we attack Flavius next?”

Adelram shook his head “no, let’s do something else…” he picked up Salazar’s head he examined the cut as always Tarkhan is on point. Adelram smiled “How about we go visit Eidolon?” Marthas took a step forward in shock “My lord he will kill you!” Adelram smiled, he could tell that Marthas is starting to worry for his safety. Adelram chuckled “relax, first I want to tend to my flowers then we will go visit Eidolon…” Adelram gripped Salazar’s head as he walked out of the chamber, Tarkhan, Sebastian and Marthas followed behind him. “Right.. I wonder should I cut the head up or… just plant the whole thing…?” Marthas coughed slightly “I recommend cutting it up spread it among the soil.” Adelram turned his head to Marthas smiling “why thank you for the suggestion…Marthas why don’t you help me with my garden?” Marthas shifted slightly “I-I would be honoured my lord…”

Adelram nodded he then looked into Salazar’s dead eyes “do enjoy the dark prince's hospitality Salazar….know your folly as you gaze upon true perfection and beauty...”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/27 04:05:29


Post by: shinros


Chapter 18
Marthas stood at the soil holding the watering can he hefted it up slightly looking at the contents. The liquid held a bright red sheen, within each watering can holds the blood of those killed during the attack upon Salazar’s warband. Marthas passed his gaze over the room Adelram is scattering the bits of Salazar’s head across the soil he then turns it over with a spade. Once done Adelram nods “Right Marthas I have some things to do, by the time I return I expect the soil to be watered.” Marthas inclined his head “yes my lord.” Adelram gave a gentle smile before leaving.

Marthas looked at the watering can he is holding again. The task would normally not be an issue but there is the fact that there are actually several watering cans. Plus the added fact Adelram’s new state if he finds a flaw with what he has done… “Naberius is now in pieces..” Marthas sighed as he got to work the blood slowly drizzled out covering the soil.

Marthas made sure to cover each part correctly he found it odd that such a task has made him so anxious something so simple he paying full attention to how much blood is spilling out of the watering can. As the first finished the doors opened a familiar face entered the chamber. “Be-Asriel what is it?” Asriel walked in but he had someone with him a woman with black hair and blue eyes, Asriel was holding her hand tightly. He pointed to a nearby chair “sit down over there.” The woman looked at him for a moment and gave a slow nod. Marthas watched her, he could tell that each of her movements were far too graceful it was like each of her steps were delicate, controlled and considered as she made her way to the chair. Once she sat down Asriel nodded and walked over to him smiling “need some help?” Marthas narrowed his eyes he wondered what game he is playing at now. Asriel has a similar aura to Adelram but far weaker in another sense Asriel might be Adelram’s eyes and ears “I am alright thank you for the offer.”

Asriel folded his arms he walked over to a watering can and picked it up. “I insist Marthas for old times sake.” Marthas placed the empty watering can down and picked another up he frowned. It’s clear enough now that he is here to watch him he has to be careful with what he does and says. Asriel went to work watering the soil humming at the same time, Marthas stood next to him and did his own section. For some reason he disliked the silence it’s far too foreboding he wondered what is passing through Asriel’s skull. “I am not thinking about anything.” Said Asriel. Marthas raised his eyebrow “excuse me?” Asriel stopped humming he turned his head slightly to him his face completely neutral which unnerved him somewhat. “As I said Marthas I am not thinking about anything. So relax….” Marthas furrowed his brow, deep down he knew he must be lying. He must be here to watch him. Asriel then gave a large frown “I am not spying on you.”

Marthas stopped watering the soil he sighed “are you reading my mind?” Asriel shook his head “no, you are just making it obvious what you are thinking.” Asriel then smiled “If he actually wanted you dead you would wish you were. He does not kill those he dislikes quickly.” Marthas blinked at Asriel “what?” Asriel dropped his empty watering can sighing in annoyance “you should loosen up a bit. Stop worrying so much.” upon hearing Asriel’s words he clenched the watering can slightly. He could not be calm, he could not relax. Yes he had to admit killing the perfect sons was enjoyable but there is a problem. A problem he feels he cannot voice.

Asriel chuckled “you fear we will be hunted?” Marthas took a deep breath “yes….” Asriel nodded “perhaps, but that’s why we are going to visit Eidolon.” Marthas shook his head as he picked up another watering can “you’re saying that after we killed Salazar!? Why didn’t we go visit Eidolon before that!? We killed someone he favours!” Asriel walked over and picked up a watering can giving a chilling laugh “what is there to worry about? We killed him and took everything that he owns. Adelram could sense both of you hated him so he gave you the opportunity to kill his warband.” Marthas creased his brow in frustration “Adelram had more sense in the past!? What caused him to become like this!?” Marthas bit is tip he let something slip.

He looked over to Asriel who was now staring at him he could not even guess what is he thinking “I meant no disrespect to our a lord…it’s just...” Asriel then smiled “it’s fine.” Marthas shook his head in confusion “what?” Asriel walked over and continued watering the soil “Marthas you have to remember meeting a god of excess must of changed a lot for him.” Marthas mouth dropped “there is no w-” Asriel chuckled “he did, he meet a god. It’s how I am standing around right now being able to see your face. Adelram and I share a strange hollowness it’s like a ravening abyss is swirling in our bodies I guess it’s worse for him hence how he acts. I imagine Jedrick felt like this all the time it’s surprising how collected Jedrick was dealing with this. ”

Marthas shook his head he recalled Jedrick is now a daemon prince before he just seemed like a braggart, a fool who did not understand the dark prince. Thinking such thoughts caused a swell of doubt to build in hearts, Marthas shook his head again in annoyance “perhaps I was the one who did not understand?” Asriel nodded “indeed, perhaps Adelram understands the most and is trying to teach you something?” Marthas mumbled at Asriel’s words he wondered what exactly is Adelram trying to teach or even show them. Marthas soon became lost in thought he became like a machine picking up watering cans and watering the soil until eventually it was all done.

He scratched his head still thinking on Asriel’s words “so we will eventually become like him?” Asriel placed the empty can down “indeed the dark prince requires more and the more you do the more she demands.” Asriel pulled out a knife he flipped it casually “do you know how hard it is walking by people now? Not being able to cut them apart? To drive my blade into their bodies? To see and drink of their despair? To see the colour of their blood? It’s agonising Marthas.” Asriel sheathed the knife sighing he looked over at the woman “Now I have to watch over her.”

Marthas bought his eyes to the woman “who is that by the way?” Asriel folded his arms “It’s Isira, Adelram has done something.” Marthas watched her wave her feet a soft smile creased her face causing a strange sensation to grip his hearts. He shook his head “what was that?” Asriel walked over and poked his chestplate “it’s desire Marthas it’s still there just stifled by what you are.”

Marthas narrowed his eyes “I never desired anyone.” Asriel casually shrugged at his response “I imagine that’s what Adelram said when he walked through slaanesh’s realm.” he then stretched “well it seems the watering is done. I am off it was nice talking with you.” Asriel walked over to Isira he gripped her hand and bade her to rise. They both walked out without another word.

Marthas stared at the watering cans and then at the soil he mused again on Asriel’s words that Adelram is trying to teach him something. “What am I not seeing? What am I not understanding..?” As he thought he heard the doors opening again. It’s Adelram he gave a small bow upon his entrance. Adelram smiled as he saw the empty watering the cans “it’s all done good.”

Marthas stroked his chin he wondered should he dare ask? Adelram chuckled “ask Marthas.” Marthas flinched at his words he coughed slightly “My lord.. Is there anything special about the flowers?” Adelram gave a dark smile “yes there is. For one they will look beautiful and the second? It will help the warband.” Marthas raised his eyebrow “help the warband? How?” Adelram placed a finger on his lips “it’s a secret. Trust me what will come will also aid you in your work Marthas.” Marthas blinked in surprise “aid me? Really?” Adelram nodded “indeed, anyway for now you are dismissed.” Marthas inclined his head as he made his way out of Adelram’s chamber his mind suddenly began to race with what Adelram is possibly planning and for some reason that excited him.

Asriel stared at Isira sitting on his bed he wondered what Adelram is planning with her. He has made her this way for a reason and decided that she would live with him. There were several times he considered killing her he never had a good relationship with her and more than anything his gut hurts.

Asriel gripped it tightly he stared at Isira frowning “because I had to watch after you… I could not go with him…” Thinking such thoughts, saying out loud he wanted to kill her even more. He shook his head “No, he will be upset if I do that...”

Asriel reached for her chin and hefted up her face slightly, staring at her shimmering blue eyes “what is going on in that head of yours?” Asriel narrowed his eyes as Isira’s hand’s suddenly flicked out grabbing his wrist tightly. He looked at Isira’s hand in confusion yet such an emotion is causing the emptiness to fill up slightly. He grinned “so you are not a vegetable I take it?”

Asriel felt her grip tightening, it almost stinged Isira looked into his eyes almost lovingly which caused him to raise his eyebrow. Isira began speaking her voice distorting slightly it sounds like it’s mixed with another person. “Your master, our master is so bad isn’t he?” Asriel blinked in surprise “how interesting….” Isira smiled in return to his surprise “you consider me interesting? I am flattered...”

Isira slowly released her grip, Asriel stepped back looking at the bruising on his wrist. He then looked to Isira who is now standing up. She is examining herself her hands, her feet, she even gently touched her face. “This body… is so interesting… so much torment and misery…” Hearing her words Asriel opened his witch sight he stared at Isira her soul was now like a lashing tempest tearing and slowly devouring another smaller light. While focusing he watched the larger soul move suddenly, Asriel returned to normal vision. Isira leaped towards him her hand changing into a crab claw it speared past his cheek cutting it slightly as the claw tore into the wall.

Asriel felt the gash on his cheek the need to reach for his weapons were aggravating him. His mind screaming to cut loose, few humans can match him on the ship. He spent majority of his time with Fabius’ gland hounds who were all amazing fighters. Crossing blades with them was exciting, starting at Isira now he is getting that same feeling. Asriel ground his teeth trying with all his might not to reach for his weapons.

Isira touched him on the cheek gently with her other hand “it’s been a long time since I last saw you. I said we would meet again.” Asriel blinked in surprise “what? What do you mean?” his hand stopped his curiosity is now gripping him. Isira gently caressed his cheek she then moved her hand to his forehead and poked it slightly “once in your dreams and the second time when you gave me your rations.” Asriel’s eyes went wide his mind blasted back to the past, all those years ago “Seasha…?” Isira nodded “indeed.”

She removed her claw from the wall slowly, Asriel shook his head in disbelief “how? What happened? Why are you in Isira’s body?” Asriel watched as her claw changed back to normal she sat on the bed and crossed her legs “Your master, no our master has done this for two reasons. One the soul within me rejected our master he did not exactly take it well. So he reformed her… me into a statue of sorts to examine at a distance. The second reason…? Is for you.” Asriel folded his arms “for me? What reason is that?”

Seasha laughed “the hollowness in your body, you keep me under control and I help you alleviate the emptiness within you.” Seasha twitched slightly she panted and gripped her chest “how much the one within me hates you and the fact her body is being used for your sake…. It’s delicious..” Asriel frowned “if it is what I think it is. I am not interested.”

Seasha tilted her head slightly “not like that… like this..” she moved forward from his bed like lightning her hand changing into a claw again to strike. Asriel drew his blade and parried the attack. They circled each other in the room “so like that?” said Asriel. Seasha nodded “indeed, we will keep each other entarinted so I will not need to visit anyone else on the ship…..” Asriel moved to strike, Seasha gracefully dodged his attack.“I see…” said Asriel. He twisted to face her again and threw a knife at her as it trailed in the air she smacked the the knife out of the air with her claw.

They continued to circle each other Asriel gave a small laugh “I should thank Adelram the next time I see him…” Seasha purred “perhaps… I am surprised he gave me so much control of this body. I wonder how far I can go with you… from what I have seen you don’t break easily. That makes things…. Interesting... ” Asriel inclined his head towards her “neither do you considering what you are now.” They leaped at each other clashing again and again almost like a dance as they cut at each other as blood spilled within the room he could no longer feel that gnawing hollowness. The need to murder those on the ship, the need to torture and maim.

A thin smile played across Asriel’s face.

Lily sat on the command throne looking at the faces of those on the bridge she could see they were in relief. They told her the stories of what Silas has done, what he expected from them and if they fail that they are killed. Lily sighed she wondered how wasteful Silas actually was it’s not easy to train bridge crew and to get them to her standards takes time. She then began thinking of Adelram wondering if things will go back to how they were before. She mused thinking of what she saw of him how he acted so far and she only has one dark thought. That they have landed themselves in a far worse situation this is just the start. The decision to attack Salazar’s warband and the fact looking at him now is far more difficult.Plus the added fact of what he has done to Isira.

What’s clear enough is that just maybe they swapped a beast for a monster. Lily creased her brow in frustration as her thought became like a whirlpool “maybe he has not entirely changed?” She then shook her head in frustration dismissing that train of thought she looked over to the command throne screen according to reports sent by Elizabeth. They are making steady progress to space station Valira it will take time but the flight in the sea of souls is going smoothly. The only problem is the reception they would receive upon getting there. As she stared at the screen lost in thought she heard footsteps, loud ones she looked over to see who it was she flinched “Adelram? What are you doing here?” He smiled at her such a smile caused her mind to jumble, she could tell her breathing has increased somewhat along with her temperature. She tore her eyes away and looked at the screen “checking up on us?”

Lily tried to focus on the screen, to block out what she just saw she hoped he would go away. That all he wants is to check up on them. Even at the corner of her eye she could see her bridge staff looking away from their screens and in Adelram’s general direction. She took a small breath to mentally prepare herself for him to speak even so it did not help. “No, I wish to speak with you.” said Adelram.

Lily felt her heat twisting in a knot, she wanted to look away to face him directly she grit her teeth as she said “what about? Since you are here it must be important.” Lily hoped he would go away she does not want this conversation to be drawn out. Adelram purred “must feel good having a proper bed again, proper meals and sitting in your throne. To be a captain again... to control the bridge….”

She clenched her eyes at his words even if she is not looking she feels she is being drawn in. Just like before, in that moment when he fixated on her everything in her life no longer mattered. Luke did not matter, her children did not matter nor did being the captain. Thinking such thoughts should anger her but it didn’t. “Adelram…. Why are you here? What do you want? She said hoarsely.

She heard a chuckle the kind that sent a chill down her spine “As I said I wish to speak with you. It’s been a long time since we have done so.” Lily felt her hair moving she instinctively flicked towards Adelram “w-what are you doing?” She stared right into Adelram’s eyes as he picked up several strands of her hair. She cursed she could feel her muscles seizing up her eyes dilating “In the past I never understood master’s fascination with humans…. Until now. Even the gods love you more than us they bay and scream for your souls to tear apart… to devour….” Lily intently listened to his words he had her complete and utter attention.

Her mind drifted away from everything important in her life she just wanted to listen to hear what he has to say. “ In time this ship will change, everything will. Everyone will sing praises to the dark prince including you. Then our journey into entropy will truly begin… Lily when I stepped unto this ship again I realised that nothing has changed since I left.

Other than the fact slaves scamper about heads cast down. Still in that there is a problem their eyes should be up in lament in pain...horror… love and despair… to hear her song bouncing within their minds. I have been far too lenient… far too detached and it cost me. But in the end I realised...” Adelram leaned in close to her face the musk made her dizzy her head is pounding and the hairs on her skin were standing on edge. She felt a whirlwind of emotions, from adoration, to love, to terror and finally despair…. She began crying “please… stop…” Adelram held her face “that’s it… don’t resist it.” She felt a headache a painful one banging in her mind it was like claws were digging into her brain matter pulling, tearing. Blood trickled down her nose, Adelram relaxed his eyes at her and when he did that it made it all the harder to resist “almost there, you can almost hear it…” said Adelram.

Lily gasped, she couldn't breathe anymore as Adelram drifted from her vision and darkness consumed her eyes, she felt utter terror. Terror at the fact she can’t see him anymore or hear his voice. She found herself wandering in a dark landscape, she intently searched for Adelram to see him again to somehow pierce that darkness but instead she saw a snake leering at her it was enormous she could not help but stagger towards it the snake opened its mouth. Lily stared at the fangs it’s black tongue lashing out for some reason her hands reached out she wanted to touch it, embrace it as the words passed her lips “consume me… please I beg you…”

The snake opened it’s maw wider and devoured her, she could feel herself moving through it she felt like a child again when grandpa would tell her stories or tuck her into bed. The sense of comfort she felt, the need to lose herself in this euphoric sensation she curled up into a ball “let me stay like this please…” she thought of Luke, her family and her role as captain in the face of this none of that mattered. None of it did whatever is happening is wonderful.

Adelram stared at Lily sagged on the throne her eyes opaque, blood trailing down her nose at every odd second she would twitch. He moved her hair that covered her brow slightly “you will wake in time… enjoy what I am showing you…” Adelram looked around the bridge everyone is staring at him he could see what they are feeling in this very moment. “Are all of you jealous?” At once they shook their heads in disagreement or diverted their eyes he smiled “don’t worry all of you it will come in time just be patient.”

Adelram could see many of their eyes lighting up in excitement as they faced their consoles. He walked away leaving Lily to her vision he was quite eager to see what will come of her when she awakens.




Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/01/28 19:05:04


Post by: shinros


Chapter 19
Silas looked at his terminator armour in it’s stand, the added jewelry, the cape and the paint. He never had much concern for it he cared more for the status of wearing it. The jealous looks of his peers as he strode in the armour and finally when he was leader of the warband. Everyone looked to him, everyone adored and feared him. Silas clenched his hands in frustration it still angered him how he let Adelram take everything he worked for. Everything he built. Silas slowly released his hands he breathed in and then out slowly there is no use getting angry anymore, no use getting frustrated. He allowed it, he could of fought to the bitter end but he gave in. His mind drifted to Naberius’ death Adelram killed him without a second thought. Not even giving a regard to his possible position or the consequences of such an action. The fact they are going to visit Eidolon shows how much Adelram no longer cares for his decisions. “He is going to kill us all…” Silas thought to himself.

Silas shook his head staring at his armour intently he spoke chuckling slightly “I will most likely follow him with a smile on my face..” deep down he had to admit it is true. For some reason since changing his armour and killing the perfect sons he is far more eager to listen, to obey Adelram’s words. It wracked his mind wondering why it is so. In all the years of being an Astartes he barely felt fear it’s rare and once felt it’s like acid in his hearts. When he is in Adelram’s presence such a sensation starts to overflow within his body and yet at the same time it sinks leaving adoration. The adoration and terror comes in waves receding and growing it nausted him. Silas spat in annoyance “yet I can’t muster the will to challenge him again!” as he yelled he heard his door opening he turned in anger “who dares!?” The person who entered is Sitri, she gave a small bow “contemplating? Why do that? You already gave up.” Silas pointed at her “where has the respect gone!? I a-” Sitri narrowed her eyes at him “the winds are changing you are just having a hard time accepting it. I am goingg to be offering my fealty to Adelram soon.”

Silas hissed in anger “he is an enemy of my father! H-” Sitri casually shrugged while cutting him off “he has not stated that he is an enemy. He has been silent even with Naberius’ death our new lord must have the great one’s silent support.” Silas clenched his fists hearing her words there is no way Fulgrim would forgive him, considering what he did. What could Adelram possibly do to make his father forget his transgressions? Sitri then spoke almost like she read his mind “what did he do exactly? It must be great enough to even warrant his forgiveness it’s why you allow him to lead right? Deep down he scares you but you adore him wondering where he will take you next.” Silas creased his brow because he knew she is right part of him is curious he could see Adelram is planning something. His actions might appear unpredictable and random but there must be a purpose to it all.

Silas narrowed his eyes at Sitri “I assume you know what he is planning? Do you have any idea?” Sitri tapped her lips to his question she spoke after a moment “I sense something growing in his chambers. Whatever he is doing there must be a part of his plan.” Silas scoffed “he is growing flowers. I don’t see a problem.” Sitri shook her head she then frowned “did he state anything more about the flowers?” Silas scratched his head thinking for a moment he then remembered that he wanted to replicate the flowers he seen in her realm. “The only thing of note was the fact that he wanted to replicate the flowers seen in her realm. That’s it” said Silas. Sitri’s eyes went wide for a moment “the flowers of the 5th circle I heard of them… the things he could do… how interesting…” Silas frowned “what could he do? Is it a danger?” Sitri gave him a coy smile before turning away “perhaps, but once it’s completed things are going to be interesting on the ship…”

Sitri then walked out of his room without another word. Silas scratched his head in frustration “considering how he is like now, whatever he might do with those flowers is going to affect the ship..” Silas soon became lost in thought trying to unravel what Adelram is planning.

Salvador stared at the small green sprouts lining the soil he wondered what the flowers would look like in full bloom. Salvador scratched his head as he stared at the flowers the more he stares he could hear her voice faintly for some reason. He looked over to his master relaxing on his throne. “Master are you planning to do something more with the flowers?” Adelram leaned back smiling at him “you are observant aren’t you? Amuse me Salvador what do you think I aim to do with them?” Salvador grumbled his snout flared thinking on his master’s question. Focusing on the flowers he could see them slowly moving to bloom it looked like a matter of hours than days considering the power of his Lord he could do such a thing. Salvador’s mind then drifted to when the flowers would bloom he imagined they would be beautiful but more than anything he would want to share that with others. Adelram is such a person.

Salvador nodded he smiled showing his large teeth “you want to share them with everyone right?” Adelram gave a whimsical chuckle to his answer he rose from his throne and walked over. He gestured with his hand “lower your head.” Salvador did as he was bade he lowered his head and his lord began stroking the fur lining his head. Salvador liked when he did that it was a nice feeling being with his master now it’s like when he was with his parents when they were alive. He wondered if his brother remembered their parents considering how much he has been through he guessed not. “Master did I get it right?” Said Salvador. Adelram gave him a large grin “you are so smart… I am planning to share the flowers with everyone, my brothers and the humans of the ship.” Salvador found his tail moving frantically at the thought that he was correct he pushed further. “So how are you going to share them master? There is not enough for everyone on the ship have you figured something out?” Adelram stroked behind his ear nodding in approval “I will think of a creative way to share them Salvador. I have already come up with a good idea.”

His master then removed his hand from his head, Salvador frowned slightly as his lord walked back to his throne. Salvador walked forward scratching his ear. “Creative way? Can you tell me what it is? Please?” Adelram began stroking his chin for a moment clearly lost in thought he then shook his head. “Not yet, it’s a surprise we will see after we visit my old lord commander.” Salvador grumbled in response “alright…..” Even if he was somewhat sad his master would not tell him what he is planning for some reason Salvador could not help be excited at the prospect when the sharing of the flowers begins.

Lily slowly opened her eyes she felt groggy she rubbed her eyes frantically to clear them she took in a breath it was like her lungs were burning. The hairs on her body were standing on end for some reason. She felt hungry she needed to eat something. She blinked frantically to unblur her vision she found himself sitting on the bridge, her crew looking up at her waiting for commands. She gripped the arms of her throne her teeth chittered. She still felt that churning hunger he bought her eyes to one of the bridge crew. “You!” The staff jolted “yes captain?” Lily nodded “get me some food now!”

He looked confused not even expecting such an order he nodded as he rose and walked out of the bridge. Lily rubbed her gut in frustration, she then squinted her eyes slightly “up the lights on the bridge I can’t see!” Another of her crew faced her “captain… it’s pretty bright at the moment.” Lily shook her head “no it’s dim, up the light’s that’s an order.” The bridge crew went to work upping the lighting now she can actually see. Everyone else has began slightly obscuring their eyes to her confusion. She looked over to her command throne screen the journey is almost complete according to a report from Elizabeth. Lily then tapped her feet wondering what’s taking the food so long her stomach was aching her. After what seemed like an hour the bridge staff returned holding a plate and a glass of wine he handed it to her along with cutlery.

Looking at the food she dug in straight away the meat and the vegetables she stuffed into her mouth frantically chewing. The more she chewed she realised that the food had no taste she spat the food out wiping her mouth. “What is this!?” The bridge worker’s face distorted into confusion “this is the finest food we could get captain… you normally ate this meal when you were in charge in the past.” Lily shook her head in annoyance she then sighed “hand me the wine glass.” he slowly handed the glass, for some reason she found her hands trembling she needed something to end this hunger. Lily moved the glass to her lips soon as as the wine touched her tongue she spat it out.

She quickly handed the glass back to the crew member “let me guess I drank this all the time?” the crew member nodded in response. She dismissed him “back to your station I will deal with it…” Lily gripped her stomach as he walked away she stared at the half eaten food resting on the throne. She ground her teeth in frustration she can’t deal with the pain, the emptiness it hurt too much. She was about to rise from her throne when the shutters rose showing the void of space. She sat back down and addressed the bridge “we are near space station Valira?” Her staff returned an acknowledgement. Lily then looked at her command throne screen she was about to prepare a message for Adelram until she heard loud footsteps. She looked over to the exit to see Adelram striding onto the bridge.

Lily furrowed her brow in confusion the hunger within her subsided slightly staring at Adelram her heart rate has began increasing but not as much as before. Adelram then smiled at her “we are here? Good make the approach to the station.” Lily slowly nodded she called out “make the approach!” The ship glided through space after a few minutes she saw the station again. Adelram chuckled “I wonder how Eidolon is doing? I can’t wait to meet him..” Lily eyed her command throne screen in response she then said “The station is asking for call sign and the leader..” Lily bought her eyes to Adelram waiting his response he gave a dark grin. “Send them this message. The callsign is canticle of sin the leader of this warband is Lieutenant Adelram of the 11th company.” Lily narrowed her eyes at him “are you sure?”

Adelram nodded “I am. Do it.” Lily faced her screen and ordered the astropaths to send the message. They waited for what seemed like an age until a bridge member called out “space station auspex is locking unto our position!” Lily swore she called out “evasive maneuvers!” Adelram then called out “Ignore that order! Do nothing!” Lily’s eyes darted to Adelram “what are you doing!?” Adelram grinned “just wait…” The bridge crew called out “captain they are dropping their targeting!” Lily raised her eyebrow in surprise “what why!?” Adelram inclined his head “I think you should look at your command throne screen.” Lily did as she bade the message that just came through surprised her. “They want us to dock…”

Adelram placed his hands behind his back “right I will gather everyone.” As he was about to walk away he eyed her food he opened his pouch and removed a small vial containing a a shimmering white dust. He poured it over her plate the white dust shimmered for a moment then dissolved. Lily was about to call out wondering what he has just done he simply left without another word. She scratched her head in confusion, Lily then looked at the half eaten food. She sighed as she picked up her knife and fork and decided to try the food again perhaps whatever Adelram did gave it some measure of taste. As she cut a piece of meat and placed it into her mouth it was now awash with flavour to her shock. She attacked the meal like a relentless animal until there was not a scrap left.

Lily rubbed her stomach the emptiness was gone for a moment but after a few minutes it came back in a showering cascade. She planted her face into her hands in clear frustration.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/01 19:29:30


Post by: shinros


Chapter 19
Adelram stood at the docking bay airlock, he looked at his gathered brothers some baring excitement others showing clear worry, Tarkhan stood as always ready for his word, ready to obey. Marius is checking over his sonic blaster and Sebastian holds his signature mocking grin and next to him standing at attention is Asriel who is furrowing his brow in annoyance. Marthas looks clearly weary from stress something he found amusing in the end the weariness will vanish once the project is done. What surprised Adelram more than anything is Silas he could sense his conflict it bleeds off him but he is eager at the same time he wonders what will happen next, he wonders what plan or action he will bring forth to startle his hearts.

Silas looked over to him his voice boomed through the vox of his helmet his voice holding an edge of worry and a slight bit of excitement, Adelram wondered if Silas himself noticed this. “So what will you do when we cross into the station?” Silas looked down to his stormbolter he flexed his hand “we have to be ready.” Adelram placed his hand gently on Silas’ pauldron he flinched at the gesture but he could also sense his worry fading slightly. “Eidolon wants to see us if he didn’t he would of blasted us out of orbit. Relax your weary mind brother.” Adelram looked over to Marthas to see he is still stressed his words to Silas has not calmed his nerves in the slightest.

Adelram soon felt a tug on his pelt he looked down to see Asriel frowning “can we go already? Isira is eager for me to return.” Adelram nodded “right, time is wasting I am quite eager to see Eidolon after all this time.” Adelram felt his hearts constricting in anticipation what will Eidolon say? What will the brothers who serve him do? Adelram watched the light on the door change to green the ship has fully docked at the station. He pushed the button to open the door and took a step forward.
Walking down the hall the excitement grew his nerves were on end he wanted to see his brothers he wanted to see their reactions their hate, fury and disgust he wanted to drink all of it in. As the doors leading into the station opened they stepped into the hall and they were surrounded by Astartes all of them baring weapons that are now trained upon them.

Adelram heard curses, teeth kissing in disgust and the odd adoration here and there. He crossed his arms “Olsen tell your dogs to lower their weapons if they were going to kill us they would of done so.” Out of the crowd a noise marine pushed through grunting, Adelram smiled upon seeing his visage “Olsen how good to see you!” Olsen hissed and pointed at him. “What are you doing here traitor!?”

Adelram chuckled he shook his head and gave a casual shrug “what else? To see Eidolon I wanted to see how he was doing.” Adelram could see his entourage have hands on weapons ready for his call but it’s not needed he knows this. Adelram pressed “so Olsen are you going to escort us to Eidolon?” Olsen clenched his fists he rasped “such disrespect after what you did!? You dare!” Adelram took a step towards Olsen the Astartes readied their weapons at his approach he stared into Olsen’s eyes “I dare… your tantrums mean nothing to me Olsen. Now be a good dog and take us to Eidolon.” Adelram could see Olsen trembling with pure rage he turned and shouted “Make way! These are the lord-commander’s “guests.””

All the emperor’s children Astartes lowered their weapons they made a path to walk through, Olsen walked forward without another word. Adelram gestured with his head to those that follow him “let us go.” All of them gave a curt nod in acknowledgement as the all moved to follow Olsen.

They were brought to familiar double doors, Olsen stopped and turned “Only Silas and the traitor will enter.” Silas jolted to attention “may I ask why?” Olsen hissed at him “Eidolon wishes to see you as well Silas perhaps he might ask why you allowed a traitor to lead you? Considering the refuse you bought in here you must be weak of spirit and in arms..” Adelram gave a long frown to Olsen’s words energy charged around his armour as he strode towards Olsen who took a step back in reflex. “Don’t you dare insult him Olsen… watch what you say.. Apologize to Silas.” Silas came forward “my lord it’s alright let’s go see Eidolon.” Adelram hissed “silence! He insulted you!” Silas looked away without another word. Olsen narrowed his eyes chuckling “you wouldn't dare…”

Adelram felt his veins pulsing on his face he softly smiled as he quickly grasped Olsen’s head he began struggling. Adelram released a surge of energy into Olsen’s head blood poured from all orifices he gave a gurgled scream. Adelram looked into his bloodshot eyes “scream louder please…” Olsen roared his death scream reverberated in the corridor. Adelram released his hands from his head as Olsen crumpled to the ground.

Adelram turned to his fellows who were in utter silence, Marthas looked completely Ashen the rest stared at Olsen in grim detachment as he expected from them. He then faced Silas “shall we go in?” Silas spoke his voice shaking slightly “y-yes let’s.” Adelram moved to the doors and opened them both he and Silas stepped through.

Adelram looked around as he walked in the throne room is the same as he remembered it, he bought his eyes to the throne and he saw Eidolon talking with Flavius. Flavius is wearing his signature terminator armour and he held his halberd at the ready. Adelram approached the throne with Silas he smiled softly “Hello Eidolon are you well?” Eidolon looked over to his throne room doors “Did Olsen give you trouble?” Adelram scratched his cheek slightly “a little…”

The terminator took a step forward in anger “we heard his screams traitor! You dare do such a thing!?” Eidolon gestured “Flavius calm yourself I will get a replacement.” Adelram smiled “I left his prognoids intact so don’t worry.” Eidolon chuckled “I thank you for the courtesy, honestly I was surprised you decided to come here.” Adelram shrugged in response “I honestly just wanted to see how you were doing to be honest.” Eidolon shook his head in clear amusement “even if I may have killed you? Or worse?”

Adelram frowned “you can do nothing to me that I have not already experienced Eidolon. Plus if you kill me I would go back to a better place walking around in the material realm hurts my eyes there is no colour here to be honest...” Flavius pointed his Halberd at him he activated the power field “you are a fool! You know no respect! Thi-” Eidolon raised his hand he hissed “be silent Flavius do not speak again unless I ask!” Flavius lowered his stance he cast his head down slightly “yes lord commander.”

Eidolon nodded “right, so tell me Adelram how was hell?” Adelram smiled in response “it was lovely Eidolon you should go visit some time.” Adelram watched Eidolon considering it a part of him actually daring to go. “Perhaps but I have too much to do here.” he then shifted his gaze to Silas “so Silas tell me why did you allow him to lead?”

Adelram watched Silas shift slightly then their eyes met, Adelram smiled “be honest Silas don’t worry I won’t do anything.” Silas sighed in response he looked up to Eidolon “I-I don’t know.” Eidolon raised his eyebrow “I won’t accept that.” he rasped he pointed his finger at Silas “tell me a reason now. Tell me why you threw away all your work to follow a…. Traitor.” Adelram could see Silas is thinking he had a good idea why he is following him but it would be more delicious to hear him say it. To admit it.

Silas gave another heavy sigh “I… he is strange the utter terror and unpredictability he brings it’s rare whenever I feel fear but every waking moment I stare in those void-like eyes I can’t see anything. I see nothing at all and that…. Frightens me. Yet for some reason it excites me at the same time I wonder what he will do? Where will he take us? Who will he order us to kill? Being in such a limbo is nausting and exciting at the same time. I… I.. can’t get enough of it.” Adelram could see Eidolon is considering his answer weighing it within his skull. Eidolon gave a thin smile. “Good answer, I can see what you mean whatever he did to Adelram our father approves. He… regrets his actions.” Eidolon looked down to him “what do you think of that?”

Adelram scratched his head in confusion “it’s nice that father is happy even after he called me a disappointment and disowned me at the same time. Father can be like that right? Angry one second and then regretful in another and then cheerful again.” Eidolon gave a hoarse laugh “indeed! He can be that way!” Eidolon traced his finger around his gorget, he continued laughing. Adelram soon found himself laughing with Eidolon at the absurdity of all of it yet they cannot help but still love him even with this great abyss within his body he could not help but laugh. Flavius and Silas looked to be in clear confusion not understanding what exactly they both found so funny.

Eidolon soon relaxed, Adelram wiped his eye “right… so are you going to kill me or worse?” Eidolon shook his head “no, instead a reward for your efforts.” Eidolon pulled out a small medallion he threw it over to him. Flavius gasped in response “w-what!? Wh-” Eidolon glared at Flavius who bit back his words. Eidolon folded his arms “an invitation to a special fraternity everyone who is important is a part of it.” Adelram looked at the medallion in his hand it bore the symbol of their legion and has multi colored jewels inserted in it.

Adelram placed the medallion in his pouch “I thank you for this gift Eidolon.” Eidolon smirked “considering what you have done you are worthy to have it despite your rank. Now one more thing what have you done with Salazar?” Adelram looked up blankly to Eidolon “I killed him and took all his resources. His head is being used in my garden is that a problem?”

Flavius shook his head in clear disbelief of his words, Adelram frowned “he had the audacity to call himself perfect and his warband perfect. So I dealt with it, plus he looked down upon and annoyed two of my brothers I could not forgive that...” Eidolon blinked he chuckled “I think things are going to be quite interesting from now on.. Tell me Adelram what will you do next?” Adelram gave a large grin “after I finish my project I am going to go personally thank the one who helped put me on this path it’s the least I could do.”

Eidolon raised his eyebrow “may I ask who this is?” Adelram gave a soft smile “it’s not exactly a secret his name is Izel of the Thousand sons. I am quite eager to meet him...”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/01 22:08:11


Post by: lliu


Very nice. It’s good to see characters changing. Nice job!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/02 01:09:20


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Very nice. It’s good to see characters changing. Nice job!


Thanks that is one thing I wanted to tackle with Adelram's return. In a sense everyone is changing for better or worse.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/02 19:05:26


Post by: Dayknight



Another fantastic chapter, i like how you handled eidolons response. couple questions though

-what happened to the hellbrute during all this time?
-Why has Asriel never been into the sexy times?
-Why are you such a good writer?




Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/02 19:50:41


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:

Another fantastic chapter, i like how you handled eidolons response. couple questions though

-what happened to the hellbrute during all this time?
-Why has Asriel never been into the sexy times?
-Why are you such a good writer?




I am going to get to our hellbrute the problem is he sleeps a lot and Asriel? Well he was until the church event and you know being torn apart by Fulgrim such things don't really do it for him anymore. a part of him finds it frustrating actually in the past when Adelram first changed back on zatos but since Adelram went to the palace and slaanesh "fixed" him sex does not "really" register on his mind anymore. Think about it sex is like the third circle while more sophisticated stuff is beyond that in slaaneshi's realm. In the end his sex drive is pretty dead he is not attracted to humans anymore Meliva saw to that.

Now the third? A part of me thinks I am not actually that good I got a long way to go but I really do like how both you and Illiu are enjoying the story and commenting. Plus writing is fun to me really fun so I thank you for your words.



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/03 01:30:43


Post by: shinros


Shorter chapter today a longer one will come on the weekend!

Chapter 20
Izel sat on the command throne of his ship he looked at his now clear orbs searching for a way to restore them to restore his brothers. Just like Ahriman in a sense he share’s in his mistake, his sin since he was a supporter of the ritual and aided Ahriman gladly to stop the flesh change. In the eight years of the orbs clearing he could put his entire attention upon this task now that it seemed the threat of him being devoured by darkness has been averted. He bought his vision over to the rubric marines standing like statues on the bridge it still pained him to look at them but in the end that’s why he is travelling the galaxy for their sake. Izel folded his arms he bought his vision back to the orbs he searched for any signs or sources of power. He looked for signs that might lead to a cure or power since if he could gather enough of it he could reverse the ritual.

At times both he and Ahriman exchange notes if they cross paths out of everyone he was the ringleader of the ritual so in a sense he feels the most responsibility out of all of them. Izel sighed “all the legions squander brotherhood… they easily threw it to the wind. We were different… we tried to save it…” Izel pointed his staff at an orb moving it to one side. It’s been the same nothing, he can’t find anything of note.

Izel leaned back into his chair grumbling in annoyance “still nothing… what can I do?” He stared at the orbs intently then suddenly one turned dark. Izel sat upright “what? Why?” Another orb was consumed in darkness as the words passed his lips until eventually all of them were consumed by the colour of the void. Izel’s eyes went wide he leaned forward and grasped the arms of his command throne.

He shook his head in disbelief “why now!? What is happening!?” Izel bought an orb close he looked at it he could not see a thing no matter how he changed or infused the orb with power it still bore the colour of darkness. Izel ground his teeth “maybe he is still alive? I-” At once the orbs all began to distort and twist collapsing in on itself it then rapidly expanded and burst into small shiny purple shards that glistened.

The crew looked at the pieces falling to floor some looked in awe at the lights. Izel pointed at them “focus on your stations!” The crew flicked to attention and looked at their consoles. Izel creased his brow in frustration what just happened is a terrible omen and more than anything he feels he has to prepare for the worst. Since something far more terrible than the void itself might be coming for him.

Adelram stretched as he walked back onto the ship with everyone he yawned “see that wasn’t so bad was it?” Silas shook his head in disbelief “it seems Eidolon is okay with what has occured…” Adelram looked to Silas he smiled “don’t worry Silas I will take you to very interesting places...” Silas in response grunted clearly annoyed “I am never going to hear the end of this am I?”

Adelram chuckled “No you won’t, oh and Silas?” Silas faced him the blue eyes of his helm gazing into his own. “What is my lord?” Adelram stroked his chin “you don’t have to call me my lord just call me Adelram.” Silas shifted in response he shook his head “I see… I thank you for the kindness my lord.” Adelram inclined his head to Silas he looked over to everyone else. Tarkhan is at the ready he bowed slightly “I wish to go and meditate my lord.” Adelram smirked at his words “image training again? You like to keep yourself sharp don’t you?” Tarkhan rose “yes, almost everyone else on the ship would make poor sparring partners so I have to settle with this.” Marthas took offence to his words he frowned “what do you mean poor!? You dare!” Adelram frowned at Marthas’ words Silas seems to have taken his place at his side but Marthas is still resisting in his own way. He seeks uniform, reason to chaos but in the end there is no reason, no understanding just want. “Marthas he would easily kill any of those that have been trained by you.”

Marthas flicked towards him it looked like he was about to say something, Sebastian chuckled “Look at him biting his tongue in fear.” Sebastian shrugged “you think you know best as always. Our lord has seen things you would never have dreamed of compared to him you are but a child…” Marthas ground his teeth he looked ready to erupt. Tarkhan turned and inclined his head to Marthas “I meant no disrespect…” Marthas raised his hand at him “enough! I don’t want to hear it!” Marius gave a raspy laugh “look he is going to try and walk away and brood… accept it. Accept the will of our lord Marthas…”

Adelram looked at everyone ganging up on his wayward brother he tapped his chin the flowers should be ready Marthas is not going to be easily convinced by words. To be sure he looked at Asriel. “Tell me my second half what do you think of Marthas at the moment?” Asriel looked up at Marthas he folded his arms “Marthas be honest with your feelings just let it all out.” Adelram could see Marthas’ eyes going wide he suddenly looked weary and then his faced switched to anger he pointed shouting the top of his voice. “Tell me my lord! Tell me do you have plan with what you are doing!? Pushing the boundaries! Pressing your luck! You could of destroyed us! Eidolon could of ended us before we reached the station!” Adelram grinned “there it is the real you…” Marthas hissed at him he spat “the real me!? You ruined my work! You are doing it again! Now you are easily dragging everyone down with you! What makes it worse they are doing it with smiles on their faces!”

Marthas breathing became hoarse he lowered his hand and clenched his hands into fists “Y-you! You don’t care! You just don’t!” Adelram licked his lips in anticipation he wanted to press him more to reveal more about himself how he feels at his return. “I care, it’s why I am doing all of this for you.” Adelram said calmly. Marthas shook his head is disbelief “you lie! You are lying!” Silas came forward he raised his hand “Marth-” Marthas took a step back he pointed at Silas “you are meant to be the leader! The most perfect! The one I shaped! Molded! Yet you bowed so easily for him! You gave up!?” Silas clenched the hand he raised he looked at Adelram slightly “I… am not perfect. Far from it… I realise that now. There is more to being perfect than martial ability Marthas..” Marthas took another step back in shock “look at what he has done! This is what he does!” Adelram watched Marthas look at everyone and then finally at him. “You twist everything! You change corrupt and tear apart anything that doesn’t please you! Our Father made your servant perfect for you!” he pointed at Asriel who raised his eyebrow “yet you changed him back!? Who do you think you are!?”

Marthas began breathing heavily as he voice slowly died. Adelram could see everyone in the dock has frozen a deathly silence fell upon the docking bay area. Adelram casually shrugged in response “I didn’t like what father did so I went and changed it he is not perfect after all... That’s it to be honest still the dark prince’s realm is a fascinating place you should go sometime.” Marthas shook his head in utter shock he stormed away without another word. As Marthas left it confirmed to him that he has to use the flowers perhaps he will become more relaxed once he shares them. He looked over to everyone “right you can go about your business I have things to do.” Everyone gave a curt nod as they began walking away, Asriel stopped at his side. “Don’t kill him.” Adelram looked down at Asriel “you still like him don’t you?” Asriel slowly nodded they faced each other “yes he is most likely finding it difficult because he is still used to rigid structure. Even when the changes came to him on Zatos he tried to find his own way to resist it.”

Adelram folded his arms he smiled “I know, I expected he would be the most difficult out of all of them. Don’t worry I will deal with it.” Asriel smiled “good, one more thing before I go.” Adelram had some measure of what he is going to ask. Asriel scratched his head “so… why did you turn Isira into a daemonhost?” Adelram reached out his hand and grasped Asriel’s shoulder “for your sake than anything plus she rejected me. I didn’t like that.” Asriel placed his finger to his chin “I see..she makes a good sparring partner.” Adelram moved his hand away while shaking his head “have you done anything else with her?” Asriel blinked in confusion “like what?” Adelram poked his second half’s forehead, he rubbed it slightly in annoyance. “What was that for!?” Adelram sighed slightly in response “after I met her in the palace she spoke so fondly of you. Your innocence, your… caring nature. She also enjoyed watching your ruthlessness. She was so eager to meet you again don’t waste this please.” Asriel frowned “I have no idea what you are talking about. Also I have no interest.”

Adelram narrowed his eyes at him “in humans I should add.” Asriel gave a large frown “why are we having this conversation? I-” Adelram smiled “I drew your interest haven’t I? Go see her again and see..” Asriel clenched his hands in frustration “I...don’t care for such a thing.” Asriel briskly walked away without another word grumbling in annoyance. Adelram looked at Asriel leaving he then thought about his flowers again he needs to prepare them since they are an important part in renovating the ship.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/04 02:00:36


Post by: Dayknight


 shinros wrote:
 Dayknight wrote:

Another fantastic chapter, i like how you handled eidolons response. couple questions though

-what happened to the hellbrute during all this time?
-Why has Asriel never been into the sexy times?
-Why are you such a good writer?




I am going to get to our hellbrute the problem is he sleeps a lot and Asriel? Well he was until the church event and you know being torn apart by Fulgrim such things don't really do it for him anymore. a part of him finds it frustrating actually in the past when Adelram first changed back on zatos but since Adelram went to the palace and slaanesh "fixed" him sex does not "really" register on his mind anymore. Think about it sex is like the third circle while more sophisticated stuff is beyond that in slaaneshi's realm. In the end his sex drive is pretty dead he is not attracted to humans anymore Meliva saw to that.

Now the third? A part of me thinks I am not actually that good I got a long way to go but I really do like how both you and Illiu are enjoying the story and commenting. Plus writing is fun to me really fun so I thank you for your words.



As our dark prince would say, enjoying it is half the battle! And trust us you are a fantastic writer and you have noticeably improved with each chapter. The obit reason you might not see me commenting often is because I legit try to stay away from here so I can come back to a nice juicy read. You make it damn hard though! I probably check this thread eagerly every 2 days at this point.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/04 02:12:19


Post by: shinros


Chapter 21
Adelram made his way to his chambers he has to get everything ready, the flowers should be ready he has already thought of a possible means to share them with everyone on the ship but just in case he will make some adjustments so it would not affect the young. Adelram smiled “just in case everyone dies…” he tugged a small strand of his hair that covered his brow in the end what is important if they die is that they will experience something wonderful before passing away. Only those whose faith is not found wanting will survive.

He could not help but smile at such a prospect his brothers, everyone on the ship will become wonderful. He chuckled to himself he upped his pace Adelram felt excitement gripping his hearts the emptiness ebbing away. Yet he stopped when he reached a set of doors he stared at the crude painting covering it. “Father spoke to me first…” he mouthed. He looked at the panel he could see the dust lining it. Right away he could tell it has not been touched in years. Adelram shook his head sighing “Silas can be so childish…” he pushed in the numbers to open the door it clicked open. As he stepped in what greeted him is his brother Noxus his frame covered in a host of dust. The room itself almost every inch of the room bore a thick layer of dust.

Adelram called out “Noxus! Are you awake?” He did not get any response he wondered how long he has been sleeping for. He called out again “wake up! I wish to speak to you!” Adelram stood tapping his feet he could sense that he is still alive but is in a deep slumber most likely self-induced. He tapped his chin thinking he clicked his fingers as an idea spawned within his mind “He will awaken for him. I know it!” Adelram hummed as he left the room closing the door behind him he diverted his route to Asriel’s room.

Asriel scratched his head annoyance he wondered why Adelram moved to such a conversation he holds no interest in Isira especially. Asriel opened his door he got his blade ready just in case of an ambush. He slowly walked in and what greeted him is his room is now consumed in a pink mist he could not see anything. The door of his room closed behind him he remained on guard. He licked his lips wondering what angle she is going to attack from. He took slow steps until suddenly hands shot out of the mist, Asriel tried to unsheathed his blade but was far too slow. The arms wrapped themselves around him Asriel smiled “you got me this time.” Out of the mist Isira came forward her hair was now pink and her eyes were now like his. It was like she was floating in the air, her dress is also blending in with the mist she leaned in close while still holding him.

Asriel frowned “what is it?” when she spoke her voice was just how he remembered it in his dreams from the past. She tapped his nose with one finger as she said “why do you call me the name of my host? She is a mere prisoner.” Asriel shrugged “don’t know, if you want me to call you Seasha I will.” She smiled softly “I would like you to refer me by my name…” Asriel nodded “right Seasha, can you let go of me now please?” Seasha furrowed her brow “I thought you wanted something. It was such a small thought…” Asriel grunted in annoyance the neverborn of slaanesh want to grant desire’s that is what they are. They can’t help it.

Asriel frowned “I am not interested I was just thinking about the conversation I had with Adelram nothing more.” Asriel stared into her eyes it’s clear she wanted him to say yes what they love more than anything if you give into excess of your own volition. They may push slightly but in the end they would prefer you to take the plunge yourself.

He removed his hand from his blade, Seasha grasped his hand it felt oddly warm as she said “if you don’t like this form I can change it.” Asriel grimace he tried to push her away but she held him tightly she continued speaking. “You are afraid that you will feel nothing trust me… I know things…” she cooed. Asriel watched muscle beginning to line her arms, her skin changing in pigment and her face shifting slightly to that of a daemonette. “Dear Asriel you must experience everything… drink of all the bounties of galaxy...” Asriel considered her words he searched for any hint for desire a trace to cling to. As always he largely felt nothing. “No. I would rather spar actually that’s exciting at least when we try to murder one another.” he smiled.

Seasha did not return his smile she kissed her teeth in annoyance clearly showing her fangs “why not at least try for his sake? He wants you to be happy...” Asriel hissed at her in anger “don’t you dare bring him into this daemon!” Seasha looked away frowning. Asriel sighed watching her frown thinking for a moment he can’t spend all day fighting he will eventually get bored and if he does beat Seasha at some point who would he spar?

Asriel gave another heavy sigh “fine… show me what you can do then..” Her head flicked towards him she gave a large joyful grin. She bought her hand to his face he looked at her nails slowly changing into black talons. Seasha bought her claws down his cheek drawing blood as she quietly said “you will enjoy this.”

She then gave a light kiss, For a moment Asriel felt nothing like always he was about to push her way until he felt a rush of pain she gripped him tightly as the a wave of agony gripped his body.

Adelram walked to Asriel’s room he wondered what he was doing at the moment most likely he is training to keep himself sharp. As he got to the door he stopped in front of it he moved his hand to the panel to enter the override to open the door but for some reason it was rejecting the code.

Adelram stroked his chin “that is strange…” He pushed in the code again the same occured he then decided to knock. “Open the door Asriel.” yet nothing no answer and the door did not budge. He decided to bang on the door causing a slight dent “open the door.” Adelram repeated he then folded his arms waiting for a response. He wondered what he was doing, he decided to knock one more time before his fist reached the door it slowly opened.

Adelram sighed wondering what took him so long as he walked into the room the smell of blood, perfume and honey smashed into his nose. It reminded him somewhat of the dark prince’s realm it pleased him for a moment. Just for a moment. He looked around the room he eventually bought his eyes to the bed. Isira was sitting on the bed stroking Asriel’s head. Adelram could see Asriel wearing a t-shirt his arms and face baring fresh cuts. He looked over to Isira who put a finger to her lips “he is sleeping soundly I might add.”

Adelram looked at his face he almost seemed like a child a part of him did not want to disturb him but he needed him for something. “I need him up now.” Asriel opened his eyes suddenly “so noisy…” Adelram gave a small chuckle in response “well.. I need you to do something.” Asriel yawned he rubbed his eyes as he got up Isira moved slightly down the bed. “What is it?”

Adelram pointed at him “you need to clean Noxus’ room.” Asriel blinked he swore “Oh no… I forgot about him!” Asriel rushed out of the bed he quickly ran over to the closet and placed his gear on. What surprised Adelram is his reaction he never knew he was that fond of Noxus. Perhaps if he payed more attention to him in the past he might be feeling the same way at the moment.

Asriel cursed “the idiot most likely has slept the eight years away!” Isira eyed him running around the room “is there a problem with how long he sleeps for?” Asriel stopped “not exactly… but dreadnoughts should not sleep too long it messes with their heads.” Adelram inclined his head to Asriel “he is correct I tried to call out to him but there was no reaction. I think he largely prefers to speak to Asriel.”

Asriel quickly put on his boots, he rushed out the room pushing past him without another word. Adelram bought his eyes to Isira casually sitting on his bed “so… it happened?” Isira shrugged “in a manner of speaking yes but… there is a problem.” Adelram folded his arms “is there? May I ask what it is?” Isira tapped her lips thinking “Meliva was…thorough with dear Asriel. Most mortals would beg me to stay with them he liked it but…” Adelram nodded “I see you don’t need to say anymore. Honestly I am surprised he still cares for my brothers.” Isira chuckled “yes.. But he cares for you above all.”

Adelram turned away “I expect nothing less I trust him above everyone else.” Just before he left Isira called out “so is it ready?” Adelram could not help but grin “almost… how many do you think will survive?” Isira gave a cold laugh in response “I am sure the ones you care for will but you are essentially wiping the slate clean. You are aware yes?” Adelram closed his eyes he spoke softly “it’s only in the deepest abyss of hell that we can truly find ourselves… some of my brothers have not truly experienced hell yet. I will give it to them. So their true selves can burst forth..” Adelram could hear Isira licking her lips “I can’t wait.. don’t tarry… Master..” Adelram chuckled as he walked out of the room without another word passing his lips.

He felt groggy for some reason he felt a need to wake up something has changed… no something has returned. He recalled his father words Silas will lead, he seeks perfection and is the best out of all of them and Adelram will soon fall. He did not want to gainsay his father for it’s not his place but he was not happy with Silas leading. He made that clear enough when he took control his words were thus “I do not need help of a disgusting cripple, no matter how you change no matter what you do all you will be is a broken Astartes stuck inside a coffin.”

He was used to hearing such words but it stung for some reason due to his father’s words that bounced within his mind. In the end it was because of his words that he did not crush him on the spot so instead he decided to sleep. To drift away into the recesses of his mind no more worry, no more killing, no more insults. All he had is sweet silence but at the back of his mind he heard a pestering noise. It annoyed him greatly but for some reason a small spec of him was happy. He needed to open his eyes to see, to see what is bothering him. He grunted in annoyance it was like his eyes were glued shut he kept trying the sound became louder and louder. He roared and flicked his eyes open what he saw is a young man coughing sweeping in his room. He blinked in surprise as his voice boomed. “You.”

The young man looked at him he smiled but he seems changed it’s clear enough by his eyes “It’s me Asriel. Do you remember Noxus?” Noxus tried to moved his hand he could tell it’s slightly rusted. “Asriel…. I remember. It’s not Beleth anymore? What happened?” Asriel puffed out his chest “Adelram fixed me I can also see again.” Noxus blinked in surprise he could not help but feel slightly happy at the prospect. “I see, by the way why are you cleaning my room?” Asriel frowned in the response “who else cleans it? I am the only person who regularly visits you. I clean the room when you are sleeping and I clean your frame when I have the time as well. I am surprised Caius doesn’t do it.” Noxus hissed when he heard the tech priests name “He is more eager to experiment on me than maintain me so I send him away.” Asriel stopped sweeping “I see so you prefer my company then? Is that it?”

Noxus narrowed his eyes he did not know what to say to Asriel the prospect pleased him that he is here but part of him did not want to gratify a human “no.” Noxus lied. Asriel raised his eyebrow “why are you lying?” Noxus cursed his voice boomed out his vox “go away then. Leave me to sleep.” Asriel chuckled in response “no, I am not leaving until the room is spotless and you have been through a proper maintenance.” Noxus grumbled he watched Asriel work the seconds went to minutes and then an hour. Eventually the whole room was spotless.

Asriel wiped his brow he placed a dirty cloth on the table as he made his way to the chassis. Noxus grunted “you don’t need to do this.” Asriel ignored his words he silently hovered his hand over a part of his body a soft purple glow emitted from it as he said “tell me Noxus why do you keep trying to push me away? You enjoy our talks, you enjoy when we play regicide now that I can see you don’t have to move my pieces anymore.”

Noxus hated when he spoke in such a fashion he recalled that he views the warband as family to him what he is doing now is like taking care of a abused member. Noxus did not know what to exactly think of that so he asked. “Do you still view this warband as a family Asriel?” He looked up at him and smiled “Of course that hasn’t changed.”

Noxus should've guessed that would still be the case hearing him say that he wanted to be honest with him for once. “You know I was just using you for my own gratification in the past? Yet you still think the same way?” Asriel nodded in response “ I know but remember Noxus gratification is part of following the dark prince. Even I want that sometimes.” Asriel moved away his hand “try moving.”

Noxus flexed his hand the servo’s moved smoothly whatever sorcery he has done it’s like the rust did not even exist. He stared at Asriel “you’ve changed.” Asriel raised his eyebrow “really in what way?” Noxus made his hand into a fist and released it “you smile more often for one. You were so serious before.”

Asriel scratched his head “thanks I guess? But I feel terrible most of the time.” Noxus moved his scourge slightly chuckling “to feel terrible, to feel inadequate and as you said to seek gratification shows us that we are truly alive. Don’t you think it’s strange how the most terrible things in our lives forever sticks with us? Scars us?” Asriel folded his arms “how we deal with those scars is what amuses the dark prince I guess?” Noxus activated the power field on his scourge the energy sparking in the air as he said. “our scars is what makes us who we are how we push past our failings is what brings joy to living. I thought my end would come being in this suit of iron but I rose high in the sky compared to those who insulted me.” Noxus thought of Silas chiefly he knows he must still get annoyed whenever he passes his door.

Asriel furrowed his brow “are you rambling Noxus?” Noxus deactivated his scourge he sighed heavily “I wish to merely thank you that’s all.” As he said those words a big grin lined Asriel’s face “I see.. Your welcome Noxus.” Noxus then pointed to a box in the corner “get the regicide box out let’s see how much you changed.” Asriel nodded “right, but don’t complain if I beat you too quickly!”

Noxus scoffed “we shall see…”

Adelram entered his chamber he saw Salvador sniffing at the flowers in full bloom. Walking over Salvador perked up in attention “master! Look!” he pointed at the flowers. Adelram bought his eyes to them all of them were multicoloured, they shimmered brilliantly in the room. He could also spot thorns constricting some of them. Adelram rubbed his hands in anticipation “right… let’s harvest some.” Salvador scratched his head in confusion as he began pulling flowers up from the soil he gathered a bunch in his hands. Once done he nodded “right that should be enough.” Adelram began walking towards a table in his chamber he turned his head slightly to Salvador “come with me Salvador.” Salvador bobbed his head in response, clearly excited with what he is possibly planning as he began following him.

Adelram set the flowers upon a table he opened the drawer and got out a bowel and a crusher he placed the flowers in the bowl and began grinding them down. Salvador looked over him “you are crushing them…” he said sadly. Adelram smiled to Salvador “not all of them I am only using a few. Trust me dear Salvador this will make sharing them more effective.” Salvador grumbled, Adelram considered that a fair response it’s his first time seeing such flowers any normal follower of the dark prince would be heartbroken to see them crushed in such a fashion.

Adelram worked them down until he was satisfied. He then hovered his hand over the flowers he bent their unnatural chemistry with his sorcery to avoid the young of the ship. Afterwards he moved his hand away and opened his pouch and bought out a large sealed vial he unscrewed the top and placed the ground flowers in. Adelram then went to his draw and pulled out a small bottle of water he poured it into the vial and sealed it. Adelram then gave the tube a good shake until the ground down flowers were mixed with the water. He then held it up to Salvador the water now baring the colour of the flowers “I will be sharing this with everyone on the ship!”

Salvador blinked “how? It’s not enough.” Adelram grinned “not if it’s distilled and mixed with the oxygen of the ship. Come with me...” Adelram moved to leave his chambers Salvador followed scratching his head in confusion. Adelram walked to one of the many rooms that bare oxygen tanks to pump breathable air into the ship. Salvador looked around “so what are we going to do next?” Adelram licked his lips and pointed at the main tank “I will connect this tube with the tank and I will heat it. The vapour will then mix with the oxygen and my gift will spread throughout the ship.” Salvador nodded in understanding “I see. So are you going to do it now?”

Adelram grinned “indeed I am.” he walked over to the main tank he connected the vial with the oxygen tank. He hovered his other hand over the vial and created a small flame he watched the water bubble and slowly turn to vapour. Adelram gave a dark chuckle “to hell you go my brothers…”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/04 02:13:18


Post by: shinros


 Dayknight wrote:
 shinros wrote:
 Dayknight wrote:

Another fantastic chapter, i like how you handled eidolons response. couple questions though

-what happened to the hellbrute during all this time?
-Why has Asriel never been into the sexy times?
-Why are you such a good writer?




I am going to get to our hellbrute the problem is he sleeps a lot and Asriel? Well he was until the church event and you know being torn apart by Fulgrim such things don't really do it for him anymore. a part of him finds it frustrating actually in the past when Adelram first changed back on zatos but since Adelram went to the palace and slaanesh "fixed" him sex does not "really" register on his mind anymore. Think about it sex is like the third circle while more sophisticated stuff is beyond that in slaaneshi's realm. In the end his sex drive is pretty dead he is not attracted to humans anymore Meliva saw to that.

Now the third? A part of me thinks I am not actually that good I got a long way to go but I really do like how both you and Illiu are enjoying the story and commenting. Plus writing is fun to me really fun so I thank you for your words.



As our dark prince would say, enjoying it is half the battle! And trust us you are a fantastic writer and you have noticeably improved with each chapter. The obit reason you might not see me commenting often is because I legit try to stay away from here so I can come back to a nice juicy read. You make it damn hard though! I probably check this thread eagerly every 2 days at this point.


Thanks I appreciate your words perhaps I should have more confidence in myself. Practice makes perfect! Also I know you like to read in chunks On that note... would you look at that! A new chapter!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/05 02:55:26


Post by: lliu


Very nice! Now we know what the flowers are for. If Adelram just sent the majority of his Astartes to hell, how many are left? As low as when the Slave uprising killed three quarters of them?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/05 04:30:11


Post by: shinros


Chapter 22

Tarkhan’s blade danced within his room his Khan was generous enough to gift him a room that was spacious for his training. He made a cross slash to finish and slowly sheathed his blade he wiped his brow as sweat dribbled down. “That’s it for now… what else can I do?” Tarkhan figited he then paced he has watched those of Marthas’ temple train just by watching their movements he knows he would win easily. Tarkhan stopped he shook his head trying to push away such thoughts. “He will unleash me when ready I just have to patient.” Tarkhan eyed a space in his room he had a long shelf placed on the wall of his room he plans to collect the heads of worthy foes the foes that bring him joy and make him laugh. The tech priest is already working on a small stasis fields so the heads will remain fresh once they are taken.

Tarkhan sighed he unsheathed his blade again. The blade cut air he repeated the drills again and again. Normally it would set his mind at ease but since his true Khan has come in these past eight years things have become hard. It’s hard to focus, it’s hard to remain at a razor edge it’s what Adelram would want of him. As his blade moved he froze the blade was in mid cut held in mid-air something within his mind has just told him that something has changed. Then outside of his room he started to hear screams, murmurings and mad ravings. As he was about to lower his blade to turn and investigate his room was consumed in darkness.

Tarkhan placed himself in battle-stance the combat-stims within his power armour activated danger is coming. He can taste it he grinned “only in extreme danger can joy be found…” as his words echoed someone spoke in his voice. “Indeed that is why we kill don’t we? To find joy?” Tarkhan looked around “what is this? What is going on?”

Out of the darkness a figure coalesced they wore mark VIII power armour and the colour is that of the white scars. What shocked Tarkhan more than anything was the face he saw his face smiling at him. Tarkhan pointed his blade at himself “fighting myself? That should be fun..” He watched himself staring blankly at him still holding his smile Tarkhan grunted in annoyance “why don’t you draw your blade if you are me?”

The other him shook his head as he said “you seek danger for the wrong reasons and smile for the wrong reasons.” Tarkhan tutted in annoyance “are you here to lecture me or fight?” His old self began walking around him chuckling “you gave up brotherhood, true joy and companionship to fight with those who bow to yaksha. They don’t even understand what a warrior is. What true art is but you gave in to those who seek degeneracy..”

Tarkhan frowned “so you are here to speak? Disappointing…” Tarkhan charged himself he stood still not even trying to defend himself. Tarkhan frowned “if you were me you would fight back.” Tarkhan slashed himself his blade phased right through. The fake merely shook his head in sadness. “What have we become? You kill for a tyrant and a monster? Why?” Tarkhan grumbled taking a step back “why not? He is wonderful and so is the Khagan.”

His fake self frowned “you even spit on the name of Khagan by giving the title to a yaksha. This is why we never became a captain. We thought we always knew best! What we should of done is-” Tarkhan finished his sentence “temper ourselves? Why? Being calm waiting for our chance we would eventually be replaced by them.”

Tarkhan watched himself point at him “you are afraid of being replaced by the primaris?” Tarkhan chuckled “if you are me you should be as well. For it is true why pick something lesser to lead when you have something better? Being with my New Khan, killing for him I can show that I am better than them. Killing my old Khan and Batu showed me that they were foolish, weak even. After these eight years I have come to realise the stormseers are all foolish there is majesty and greatness in the warp.”

His fake self sighed “I would not be here if a part of you did not think you were on the wrong path. Listen… listen to yourself before it’s too late.” Tarkhan ground his teeth “speak then.”

The one that claims that he is him said “kill your new Kh-” Tarkhan charged foward before letting him finish his sentence to even hear it utter those words he slashed the apparition darkness parted from it’s form but it kept speaking. “Kill your new Khan as your last act as human. Your last act as a white scar.” Tarkhan hissed “shut up! I will never do that! Never!” Tarkhan kept slashing again and again his fake self simply grabbed his sword mid strike holding it in place. “Why not? You have your duty to the white scars to the emperor and to our primarch. Cut the head from the snake of darkness and spare many innocents from his corruption.”

Tarkhan struggled to move the blade he wanted to end the thing before him it made his blood boil. He eyed “himself” “if you are me then you would never do that. A part of you knows how wonderful he is! How powerful! How could we end that! He recognised us! He acknowledged what we are!” His fake self released his blade he staggered back breathing heavily.

Tarkhan pointed his blade at the being who wants to set him astray “he gave us joy!” Tarkhan watched “himself” close his eyes for a moment he opened them saying “yet we also know that many of those traits are skin deep…” Tarkhan charged again his fury spilling from his body what he does now is not for joy. Not to laugh in combat he wants to utterly end this thing.

Tarkhan relentlessly slashed at it relinquishing all technique and thought yet the being still spoke. Even if he closed his eyes or tried to shut his ears it still spoke. “You deny the truth of the matter. What we did was give into the weakness of spirit I tell you as the last remaining dredges of our humanity accept this task before we are lost.” Tarkhan opened his eyes he stopped slashing he panted. “What do you mean?”

His mirror image gestured “look at yourself, look at us.” Tarkhan looked down his legs were being consumed in darkness. He shook his head laughing “it’s a trick isn’t it?” The darkness began trickling slowly up his body his eyes shot up to “himself”. “Stop this now.”

He watched himself shake his head in sadness “this is the pivotal moment if we do our last duty we can be free…” Tarkhan took a step back shaking his head “I won’t do it. Never!” His fake self began pleading “why!? For what!? For a person that will cast you aside if you bore him!? You take heads and laugh for yaksha that are pure misery for the galaxy!? Why!? ”

Tarkhan looked at the darkness it was now reaching his midsection he faced the one who seeks to lead him off his path. To lead him away from his Khan he pointed his blade at “himself.” “you should know it’s only at his side that enables us to laugh while killing and you should know how far I would go for him.”

Tarkhan watched as the eyes of his fake self went wide “no… you wouldn’t!?” Tarkhan grinned “I would.” Tarkhan turned his blade towards himself “you say I should kill him to free myself? I spit on that! I spit on you!” Tarkhan drove his blade into his body with all his might. A surge of pain rushed into his body, agony gripped him he heard “himself” crying out in almost sadness. But he knows it’s a trick if he was truly him he should of seen this coming. Tarkhan pushed the blade in deeper he gasped in pain “this feels… right.. It feels good even. This pain shows I am here. There is joy in this pain.” Tarkhan activated the power field he felt his flesh burning blood pooled down his mouth. “To experience this pain for his sake… I… ca-” Tarkhan collapsed to the ground.

His eyes fluttered his body was going numb and such a fact terrified him he needed the pain to tell himself that he is still here. He wondered if the image was trying to trick him to play at his doubt, his insecurity but that no longer mattered as his vision soon became awashed in darkness. Marthas watched those of the temple train he pushed them far harder than usual Tarkhan’s words aggravated him the savage thinks he is better than those he trained and it’s clear enough that Adelram now has his claws in Silas. Asriel’s words bothered him the most Adelram is an unpredictable maniac it’s clear he has nothing to teach and nothing to show.

He was the one that fixed him when he was broken he was the one who put him back together again after he fell into despair. Marthas ground his teeth “I see the most clearly… the warband flocks to me for my wisdom…” Marthas stared at a pair of Astartes training they stopped and soon everyone stopped. They began grasping their heads they roared in pain, others collapsed to the floor screaming in agony. Marthas furrowed his brow he walked towards an Astartes. He was about to call out but everyone froze their screams of agony vanished. Soon after everyone began evaporating all colour was bleeding away leading to a plain white landscape. Marthas looked around he gripped his weapon Eligos. Yet something was amiss his weapon was not singing he looked up at it “why are you silent?”

He looked around “is this a trick by Adelram?” Marthas began walking he shook his head “this must be his hand.” Marthas called out “so what am I meant to learn then!? What are you trying to show me!?” Marthas heard a crash he faced forward he saw it, the wall covered in dried blood. Marthas shook his head and chuckled “so that’s it?” Marthas strode towards the wall “I am not afraid of you the events on cadia shows how weak you are! The very galaxy shows how weak you are!” Marthas raised his weapon and smashed it shattering it into tiny pieces. Marthas watched it crumble with satisfaction “you are weak and destitute… I enjoy being proven right.. I enjoy watching you crumble and fall.

As Marthas turned as he heard a voice, his voice “who said you were right?” Marthas flicked back the smashed stone came together it reformed into himself. He saw himself when he protected the corrupted and weak foundation. He frowned “ah so I have to face myself then?”
Marthas watched himself nod “indeed. Can you handle it?” Marthas scoffed “indeed I can nothing you say will deter me from my path.” His old self readied his shield and blade as he said “we shall see.” Marths smirked “I have better than I was before…” Marthas readied his weapon his past self charged.

Marthas knew how he fought back then the current weapon he is wielding is perfect against his old self’s weapon set. He would crush him with overwhelming force, break his guard and then attack. Marthas roared as he swung Eligos it crashed into the shield but instead knocking aside the shield his attack was pushed back. Marthas’ eyes went wide “what!?” his old self then slashed causing a gash in his armour as he said “the imperium always finds a way. You know this it is unrelenting and eternal…” Marthas staggered back and hissed “it is not eternal! It’s foundations are weak! Rotten to the core!” Marthas panted he looked at it chest the strike did not reach his skin but the gash is large. “Look at the old me! So foolish! So…” His old self took a step forward “so confident? You speak because you are unsure.” he said flatly.

Marthas ground his teeth he charged again he swung Eligos but whatever is before him held an unnatural strength pushing back each of the blows with the shield. In return he got more gashes and minor wounds. Marthas hissed “there is no way!” His old self pushed forward “there is always a way hence why the imperium stands even when cut in half even when the dark gods scream against the galaxy we will always rage against the dying light.” Instead of a sword slash he instead punched him in the face. Marthas staggered back gripping his face blood trailed down his nose “why am I not winning!? I am stronger! More wiser!” His old self pointed his blade at him “a part of you regrets hence why I exist. A part of you yearns for the imperium a part of you wishes you tried harder.” Marthas spat back “I don’t wish to return! I gave everything up! I-”

Marthas took a step back, his past self charged like a bull unrelenting, focused he spoke calmly “look how afraid you are… you are now weak…” Marthas readied himself “I am not weak!” Marthas waited for him to close in he readied his weapon again and moved to strike the same thing occurred he parried and slashed him across the chest. His reflection then pushed him back slightly with his shield opening Marthas up for another attack and slashed him across the chest again. Marthas coughed heavily he tried to steady his feet but his past self smacked him back with his shield. Marthas crashed to the floor he coughed up blood.

He staggered to his feet gripping his weapon, blood dripping from his chestplate. He stared at him the one who represents all that he was. He stood in place waiting, Marthas did not know what to do. He looked down to Eligos since the fight started he has not landed a single blow.
Marthas spoke blood flaking his lips his voice hoarse “so aren’t you going to attack!?” his old self shook his head slowly. “Run. Heretic.” Marthas wiped his mouth he took a step back he needed to come up with a plan. He turned away and he ran he needed to formulate a plan it’s rare whenever had to do this. He then heard his footsteps following behind him, Marthas called out “if you are me you know this is the exciting part right!? To skirt on the edges of death! T-”

His pursuer his reflection spoke his tone flat “you run in fear heretic don’t try and mask it.” Marthas shook his head annoyance “I-” his other self interrupted again “the imperium is eternal! Strong! You know this hence why you run!” Marthas bit his lip he knew it’s not eternal it has been proven. The imperium is fragmented broken into pieces being torn asunder by the forces of chaos.

Marthas heard his voice again his footsteps thundering “yet you feel no euphoria… no joy…no pleasure at such a fact. Do you remember when you truly felt it? On cadia killing the imperial fists?” Marthas hissed “I was proving them wrong! That they are insane! I-” The voice behind him boomed “Heretics! Always making excuses! Look at you running in fear! You wish to be this! You wish to be fear-incarnate! Look at me! I am unrelenting focused!”

Marthas did not want to look back to give his old self the gratification he needed to think of a plan. He kept running his legs felt oddly heavy he began panting being in such a situation was meant to be exciting, stimulating but it wasn’t. Such a fact aggravated Marthas he roared as he kept running but the more he ran the more weak he felt. His old self called out “the heretic is weak of body and spirit you also should know this.” Marthas shut his eyes “shut up! I am thinking!” His mind raced but after a moment his weapon began to feel heavy second by second weight was being added to it. He looked down at it “why won’t you sing! Wh-” The voice came again from behind him “look at your weapon seeking to leave you. Look at you relying on a daemon.”

Marthas wanted to retort but he put all his effort into holding his weapon but it became too heavy the weapon slipped from his hand. It clanked to the ground Marthas’ hearts sank but if he stopped he will be caught. Without any weapon… the voice came again from behind him. “You will surely die…” Marthas shook his head “I can’t die! I refuse!” he can’t stop he was the one who made Silas who he is. He is the one who bought Adelram up who started him on his path. When they flew into the galaxy almost all of the warband members came to him they came to him to learn from him. His old self then spoke “yet a slave revolt killed them and the one who you thought understood little rose higher than you.”

Marthas hissed “Jedrick was a fool!” The one behind him called out “Jedrick was far more true to himself than you are. He sought the greatest heights not even taking a backwards step and even gladly walked into his death because in the end it is merely another experience. While you are running like a coward masking it as a “high” or a “joy”.” Marthas clenched his eyes shut for some reason those words stung he shook his head he wondered what he would say in this situation. What he would do knowing him if something threatened him in such a fashion he would charge right at it laughing in joy. In this moment he was not laughing, he could not be happy either everything is unravelling again.

Everything is descending into entropy he wondered how Adelram could defeat the one he made perfect. He wondered for what reason would he change so much, he threw away the chance for his father’s love full well knowing that every member of the third would hunt him to the end of his days. Marthas shook his head “he went so far for his sake those two are insane… utterly insane…” His old self spoke out “but now they seek a galaxy of sensation and entropy but you don’t want that. Hence why I am here to punish you for your heresy.” Marthas kept running he ground his teeth he hasn’t done anything wrong. There is reason to his decisions there are none with Adelram’s. He seeks to make the warband perfect to make them the perfect warriors to tear down the edifice but yet… “they keep failing…”

Marthas slowly stopped running and what surprised him is the footsteps stopped he stood still. Just for once he stopped and thought on what he has possibly done wrong where did he go wrong. He thought back to cadia the time when he was killing the imperial fists when he felt so alive he enjoyed killing them there was no reason to it. There was no higher purpose or calling the need to inflict pain, to kill gripped him. On Zatos instead of embracing such a fact he tried to find a way to avoid it. Marthas looked at his hands “there is no reason… no structure just want…” Marthas turned to face himself. He stared at him his old black armour, the insignia of the Black templars. “My old life was so sad, so empty... killing because I was ordered to. Killing in cold detachment because I thought I was delivering justice to heretics. In the end… this galaxy is a charnel house a meat grinder... ” His past self pointed his blade at him “we fought to end it!”

Marthas chuckled “yet times change… I now fight in this playground of carnage… provided by the dark gods. There is no reason to it they want suffering and war… in the case of the dark prince he wants us to enjoy the carnage, the pain. He wants to to experience everything this dark galaxy offers.” Marthas grinned at himself “so come then… punish me for every blow is a monument to this galaxy. My every scream, my even groan of pleasure. So come then…” His old self shook his head “you are truly lost…” Marthas chuckled “I have been lost a long time. But I tell you what? I am far more happier now..”

His ancient self roared and charged, Marthas spread out his arms welcoming it the sword blow came carving apart his armour. Blood sprayed across the ground he soon felt the shield smashing into his face he staggered back coughing heavily. It was so painful but the sensation he felt on cadia and then on Zatos came back in cascades. The need to experience more the pain was almost euphoric. He then felt the sword piecing his body and twisting. Then the shield came again to his face smashing crushing he felt one of his eyes rupturing he groaned. But then it stopped he opened his one ruined eye “why did you stop!? What’s wrong with you!? Are you that weak willed!? Are you afraid to fall with me!?” He watched himself frozen in place shaking his head as he said “why? You enjoy this punishment? Are we that far gone? You enjoy being a sybarite?” Marthas gripped himself he hissed “this is not punishment but prayer! Are you the one frightened now!?”

The blade was then pushed deeper into his body he groaned again whatever is happening now felt right he no longer cared for dying. But for some reason the blade stopped moving again he eyed himself again “you are afraid aren’t you?” what surprised him even more is when the blade was removed his old self stepped back. Marthas collapsed to the ground annoyed he looked up “why did you stop!?” His past self turned away shaking his head he began crumbling slowly to Marthas’ shock. Marthas slammed his fists on the ground “w-why are you running away! C-Come back!” Marthas watched his old self continue to crumble until all that was left was black dust. Marthas hissed he felt his strength ebbing away “coward! I-”Marthas gasped blood began pooling he shook his head “right… this is it…” He took in a breath “I-I w-wonder what dying feels like?” Agony gripped his body as he sank to the ground the white landscape soon sank into darkness.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/05 04:31:22


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
Very nice! Now we know what the flowers are for. If Adelram just sent the majority of his Astartes to hell, how many are left? As low as when the Slave uprising killed three quarters of them?


Mwhahahahaha....*cough*...mwahahahahaha!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/07 00:12:10


Post by: shinros


Chapter 23
Asriel moved a piece on the board he gestured to Noxus “your turn.” Noxus gripped a piece delicately with the fingers of his fist it still surprised Asriel that Noxus has such dexterity with it and the fact he can grip the regicide pieces without breaking them. He was about to move until another loud scream was heard from the door he released his hand from the piece and faced the door. “Aren’t you going to check what’s going on?”

Asriel frowned hearing Noxus ask such a question, since they started playing screams and mad ravings could be heard outside. Screams are normal on the ship either in pain on pleasure and at most he can’t be bothered to check because largely he can’t bring himself to care. “No, why should I? I prefer to focus on our game. Now it’s your turn.” Noxus merely sighed as he moved his next piece as the piece moved across the door he then heard a banging at the door and muffled voices screaming in pure agony. Whatever is going on outside must be exciting Asriel thought but for some reason he rather enjoyed being here with Noxus it reminded him of the past and just for a few moments the abyss within his body did not hurt as much.

Noxus stared at the piece he moved “it’s your turn now.” Asriel nodded “right…” He was slowly moving his hand to the piece until he heard another scream. The main issue is that it sounded like someone he knows. Asriel slowly got up from his seat he listened more carefully he sharpened his hearing he picked apart those he cares nothing for until the familiar voice screamed one more time.

Asriel briskly turned towards the door, Noxus grunted in annoyance “I thought you didn’t care?” Asriel turned his head back slightly “there might be someone outside I do actually care about.” Asriel walked to the door he pushed in the code to activate the door as it slid open the smell of blood, excrement and a host of other identifiable smells smashed into his nose.

Walking into the hall he saw corpses littering the hallways, some had eyes shot open with utter terror and some were trapped in pure rapture. The only thing everyone had in common is there were covered in wounds all across their bodies were gashes and wounds. Even eyes, tongues and throats were torn out. In the middle of the hall is an Astartes lying face down surrounded by corpses. Asriel casually turned to the door he put in the code to open it wider and looked at Noxus. “Can you help me bring someone inside?” Noxus gently moved the small table aside where they were playing their game of regicide. He strode towards the door as he entered the hall he spoke in utter shock “by the phoenician!? wha-” Asriel pointed at the face down Astartes “Noxus can you drag him into the room?” Noxus shifted to him he could guess what he is thinking but he had no time for that.

Asriel asked again “can you drag him into your room please?” Noxus sighed he strode over the corpses crushing a few he grasped the Astartes and pulled him into the room. Asriel looked back at the corpses for a moment before walking back in. He then closed the door shutting off the smell.

Noxus placed the Astartes on his back and right away he saw him, he saw Marthas his face is now an utter ruin and his armour bore large sword wounds with blood dripping out. Asriel knelt down and went to work healing his body as the wounds slowly closed Noxus asked. “So do you have any idea what is going on? The corpses outside and Marthas in this condition?” Asriel moved his hand away from Marthas’ body he tapped his chin “I have an idea. I think this is Adelram’s means of renovating the ship and warband.”

Noxus gave a heavy sigh “renovating? You call what is outside renovating?” Asriel gave a curt nod “what would you call it? The fact we are absolutely fine should tell you something.” Noxus fell silent upon Asriel uttering those words he then went back to work healing Marthas. When he moved his hand to his face the bones locked back into place the gashes were closing but one of his eyes that are ruptured won’t heal. Asriel gently placed his fingers on it he then watched the eye flick upon as this happened Asriel quickly drew his hand back. The sclera of Marthas’ eye is now pink while his pupil is now a black slit which is now darting around rapidly.

Asriel looked at the eye now mystified it looked wonderful he wanted it, Asriel tensed his hand using biomancy he began restructuring his black nails into talons. He reached for Marthas’ new eye a part of him knew he would feel slightly better if he had it. As his talons inched closer a hand snapped around his wrist.

The wonderful eye closed and Marthas’ other eye which is normal opened. Asriel frowned “can’t I have it? We are friends right?” Marthas slowly sat up his hood fell off his head he looked at him while still holding his wrist as he said flatly “No. It’s mine.”

He released his wrist, Asriel rubbed it slightly “fine... fine…” Marthas then looked around the room he then looked up at Noxus. “So I am here? Why?” Noxus pointed “I think you should be telling us where you were lying face down surrounded by corpses!” Asriel did wonder what exactly has occurred but he had a good guess Adelram is trying to teach the warband something. Or shape them into an ideal image. “So Marthas did you learn anything?” said Asriel. Marthas gave a slow nod “I did. I learned much about myself and the dark prince. Also the corpses outside? I guess the dark prince found them lacking.” Noxus grunted “I see… anyway I want to sleep. When I wake up we will have another game Asriel.” Asriel nodded “right sleep well.” Noxus then strode over to his usual spot he faced the door and his chassis shifted downwards slightly. After a few seconds of holding that position Asriel can now hear Noxus is sleeping.

Asriel looked over to Marthas and gave him a small smile “so how do you feel now?” Marthas shook his head in annoyance “I feel terrible…” Asriel touched Marthas’ pauldron “welcome to the club then. You will get used to it.” Asriel stood up “I wonder how everyone else is doing?” Mathas put on his hood on and got to his feet as he said “I have a good idea where Adelram is at the moment.” Asriel looked up to Marthas “you do?”

Marthas slowly nodded “yes follow me.” Asriel gave Noxus one last look before following Marthas out of the room.

Silas made is making his way out of his room he relented to eventually investigate because the noises outside seemed unnatural. Screams were normal on the ship, the ones that now emitted from outside were not. As Silas entered the hall he saw corpses littering the entire corridor as he walked his mind wracked with what has just happened. Many of the dead bore faces of terror or rapture staring at them his mind drifted to the conversation he had with Sitri. Silas spoke out loud “this is what the flowers have done? Wha-” His words died on his lips his mind then raced with the possibility wondering if he is infected or that he might end up like the slaves which now littering the halls. Silas looked to his hand he feels fine nothing is amiss, he opened his auto-senses all life signs are normal.

Silas clicked it off considering the slaves are now like this he then thought of the Astartes he swore. Silas broke into a run the bodies of slaves crushing and grinding under his feet he raced towards the temple. Silas wondered what he would find when he got there but for some reason his hearts began twisting in a knot. Whatever Adelram has done the warband will change to how he envisions it. This warband will be his vision from this day onwards as Silas finally made his way to the temple doors he rushed to open it. He strode inside and what he found caused his mouth to hang within his helmet. The statues are smashed blood is staining every inch of the hall walking onwards on the right of the hall were humans wearing black robes, Silas could also spot they were wearing small charms on the dark prince on their robes.

What bothered him even more is that they are placing a white cover over large naked forms and sorting power armour into a pile in the corner. Silas was about to stride over to them in anger and demand an answer until he heard a voice at the other side of the room. “Silas come over.” He turned to see Adelram kneeling down attending to Astartes along with his pet beast watching over him.

What surprised him even more is that Marius and Sebastian were also there he slowly walked over. He could see the Astartes on this side of the hall were alive all of them were gripping their heads in pain or sitting in corners muttering. Silas stood before Adelram who is tending to an Astartes with a large wound on their chest looking at their face he could see it’s Tarkhan. Silas raised his eyebrow “can someone tell me what is going on?” Sebastian looked over at him “it seems our lord gave everyone on the ship a trial some failed others passed.” Marius nodded “aye and few were exempt.” Silas eyed Adelram who was merely smiling as he worked he said “I am surprised it only took largely an hour for all of this to take place.” Tarkhan coughed trying to rise. Adelram pushed him down saying “hold still you impaled yourself with your power sword. I am surprised you still live Tarkhan.”

Tarkhan shook his head “something like this won’t stop me..” he grunted. Looking at this scene in its entirety Silas then asked “where is Marthas?” He faced the other side of the room “is he..” Adelram shook his head as he flatly said “no. he is not among the dead.” Silas gave a small sigh of relief “but staring at the carnage outside and the dead Astartes in the hall a chilling thought gripped him. He shook his head as he quietly said “this will cripple us…” Adelram tapped Tarkhan’s chest which broke Silas’ concentration Silas now stared at Adelram who is smiling casually he stood upright. “It seems all is well.” said Adelram. Silas could not help but frown he wondered what Adelram was thinking doing this he clenched his hands as he said “Adelram can you please tell me the purpose of what you have done?” Marius and Sebastian stared at him like he said something utterly horrific he did not care for the looks he eyed Adelram who is now stroking his chin.

Adelram nodded at him “very well all I have done is expunged the weakness and the refuse from the warband. Those who are too meek or fail to understand the dark prince died I have no idea what trial occurred in everyone’s mind but know this those who died were found wanting they failed me and they failed the dark prince. Still I am surprised I expected only a quarter of the warband to remain not half.” Hearing that Silas wanted to grab him to shake him and yell wondering what gripped him to make such a decision. Silas watched Adelram’s beast standing over Adelram’s shoulder as he said “so everyone will be more happy now right?” Adelram gave a curt nod “indeed Salvador the fruits of this trial is being shown even now.” Adelram pointed at the robed humans, Silas regarded them for a moment “what about them?”

Adelram sighed “think slightly broader my dear brother it’s the markings of a cult they survived a trial through fire and the interesting fact is that many are from the lower levels. They were so eager to serve they prostrated before me to serve all my needs.” Silas then began thinking if they encourage this it could be used to more effectively control the slave population. Silas nodded “I understand I can see it.” Adelram smiled “I knew you would understand. Now I wonder where is Marthas?” As Adelram uttered those words Silas could hear the doors of the temple opening. He looked towards the doors and he saw Marthas walking into the hall with Asriel. Marthas held is weapon Eligos in hand the censer bellowing a surge of pink and purple mist. Asriel looked up to him “it’s good you found your weapon on the way here.” Silas watched Marthas look down to Asriel as he said “I knew were I dropped it. So I wasn’t worried.”

Asriel nodded as they both walked forward, what Silas found strange is that Marthas did not even regard the dead at the other side of the hall. They stopped in front of Adelram who opened up his arms smiling “Marthas you survived!” Marthas gave a long frown in return “yet I feel terrible…” Silas shook his head staring at Marthas’ face he seems changed it’s like he is exuding an aura of wrongness to even touch him he got the feeling that he would tear him apart piece by piece. What put him off even more is that Marthas only had one eye open. Silas walked up to Marthas as he said “are you alright your tem-” Marthas shook his head “what about it?”

Silas furrowed his brow “you don’t care?” Silas could see Marthas now staring at the dead he faced him again after a moment of staring as he said “No I don’t. After this I consider the temple disbanded. The Astartes that followed me should look at themselves and figure out what they want to achieve or which excess they want to follow.” Silas mouth almost fell agape he could not believe what he is hearing. Silas shook his head he looked over to Adelram. “So what now?” Adelram licked his lips “we restructure and grow. After that I want to meet someone…” Silas raised his eyebrow “meet who?”

Adelram relaxed his eyes somewhat he gave a dark grin “the one who largely helped me to become who I am now…” Adelram then looked over to Asriel “go check on my servants I want to know who lives Asriel. Meet me in my chambers after you are done.” Asriel nodded “right.” Silas watched Asriel leave in silence as the doors closed behind him Silas’ mind raced he wondered what will happen from now on? What is Adelram planning to shape the warband into? His mind kept dancing with more and more questions but a part of him could not help but feel things are going to be much more exciting from now on. Asriel strode out the temple he tapped his feeting wondering who to check on first he nodded after a moment. “Camilla first then.” Asriel made his way to her room a part of him wondered whether she is alive or not considering her talent he felt she had a chance. As he walked he saw serfs wearing strange charms beginning to clean up the bodies littering the halls.

He stared at them for a moment a few began staring at the the pin on his cloak they got to their knees. Asriel stopped walking in confusion he stared at the bowing serfs. “Why are you bowing?” He regarded them they held their silence which annoyed him he pointed at one of them. “I asked a question why are you bowing?”

The one he pointed to looked up “you wear their holy symbol you are marked with the demi-gods favour…” Asriel raised his eyebrow a thin smile lined his lips “I see… so what do you think of what has occured on the ship?” The serf gulped “the priests say it was divine punishment. We did not pursue excess hence why the daemons appeared in the past. After that we were beaten down by the old master and now a wave of death gripped the ship the dark prince is displeased…” the serf looked up his eyes now consumed in a mad fervour “we have much to make up for…”

Asriel tapped his chin for a moment he felt giddy for some reason his mind raced with what antics this new cult will get up to he nodded. “Well back to work then you don’t want to displease our lord do you?” The serf buried his head into the floor as he said “no I do not.” Asriel continued to walk to Camilla’s room as he made his way to her door he stopped in front of it.

He could not hear anything, he knocked lightly waiting for a response after a few moments he knocked harder and still no response. He flicked open the panel on the side and inputted the override. The door slowly slid open he walked into the room he finally saw Camilla. He saw her lying on the ground her throat torn open, her eyes bloodshot and her body covered in fresh wounds. Her violin is smashed into splintered and her nails is matted in gore.
Asriel regarded her for a moment he shook his head “how disappointing Adelram is going to miss hearing you play.” he walked over to her bed and pulled of the white cover he then placed it upon her body and wrapped it up. Asriel silently walked out of the room he spotted a member of the new cult he called them over. He gave a small bow before asking “is something wrong?”

Asriel pointed in the room “there is a corpse in there that needs cleaning.” The serf gave another bow “I will get to it.” Asriel nodded he was about to walk away but stopped for a moment he asked the serf a question. “What is being done with the human corpses? If I may ask?” The cultist blinked he then placed his hand to his chin “our lord said to have the bodies broken down and shot out into space. I recall he announced that he considered those that don’t survive to be refuse unworthy of his presence.” Asriel could not help but give a hard laugh in response such an action suits his character now and what’s odd he likes that about him. Asriel gestured to the cultist “I see. Thank you for the information you may get to work.” The cultist bowed before entering Camilla’s room. Asriel then thought of who he should visit next. He smiled “how about Isabella?” his heart began beating rapidly at the prospect of seeing her dead. His mind raced wondering what state she will be in when he finds her.

Asriel made his way to Isabella’s room snickering to himself, he eventually made his way to her door. He knocked once he waited for a moment he then knocked one more time and this time there was a response. The door slid open to reveal Isabella wearing a gown that bore a mix of colours from pink to blue and even purple. Asriel gave a groan of annoyance seeing her well, in return Isabella beamed brightly. “Asriel you never come to visit me what’s the matter?”

Asriel sighed “Adelram wanted me to check up on everyone it seems you are fine. So I will be going.” Asriel turned away but he felt his wrist being grabbed he frowned “what is it?” He could hear Isabella mumbling “I want to talk.” Asriel raised his eyebrow “what about?” Asriel ripped his wrist from her hand he faced her. To his surprise he saw a small amount of concern.

She gestured into her room “can you please come in?” Asriel sighed he walked into her room upon entering he looked around. The room for one is extremely large and every inch of the room is covered in pink silk. At the end of the room is a large double bed that seems far to large even for two people and around the room were small tables that bore wine bottles and glasses on the surface. Asriel then heard the door closing, Isabella walked to a nearby table she gestured for him to sit with her.

Asriel strode to the table he sat down on the chair. Isabella grabbed a bottle of wine and two glasses she poured a glass for herself and one for him. She pushed the glass forward, Asriel looked at the dark liquid. He grabbed the glass and sipped and to his shock it tasted it good it was almost hard to keep himself from drinking the whole glass but what concerned more is that Isabella wants to talk. Asriel placed the glass down “so what is it?” Isabella sipped at her glass she looked down into the swirling liquid “what do you think of what just happened?” Asriel crossed his arms “nothing to be honest. But I do think things are going to be better.” Isabella began tracing her finger around her glass thinking her eyes fluttered “I see… so I wonder am I the first? To be checked upon?” Asriel shook his head “no I went to see Camilla first.”

Isabella then stared at him he could see she had a good guess of her fate. “So she is dead?” Asriel inclined his head “yes does that bother you?” Asriel took another sip from his glass he wondered what is in it he has never enjoyed drinking this much. Asriel eyed Isabella waiting for her response. Isabella smiled while taking another sip from her glass “it bothers me but I am not concerned for her fate.”

Isabella licked her lips as she swirled the glass “I assume you did not fall into the vision or trial?” Asriel raised his eyebrow “no, I was playing regicide with Noxus while everything was happening outside.” Isabella shook her head while chuckling “I did… I was back at my home before the war. Before I learned more about the galaxy. I saw myself happy smiling even what surprised me even more is that I had a husband he was so beautiful. When I saw that I realised what was before me was not the past but what could of been. I stared at this scene and I saw myself turning regarding me as she said a part of me wishes I had this.” Isabella fell silent for a moment her hands were shaking as she took another sip of her glass. Asriel suddenly grew interested for some reason he took another swig of his glass “please continue your story it’s interesting.” Isabella perked up in surprise she gave a soft smile she then sighed slightly. “My… other self pulled me along showing me the rest of my house how wonderful it looked. She even showed me her collection of prayer books to the emperor along with the statues of imperial saints. She then talked of how better life was or could of been if…” Isabella stared at him for a moment Asriel narrowed his eyes at her. “Is that regret I hear?”

Isabella grinned she shook her head “if I had regret I think I would be dead at the moment wouldn't I?” Asriel drained the rest of his glass he grabbed the bottle to pour himself another. “True if you had a measure of regret I assume you would of ended up like poor Camilla.” Asriel pushed the wine bottle slightly forward, Isabella then refilled her glass she continued her story. “Indeed I would...So after that she took me outside to show me all of my “friends” and the connections I had I watched myself continue to bay at the things I lost. The things I could not have.” Isabella clenched her wine glass slightly “I then asked to be taken back to my “home.” I watched myself oblige as she escorted me back and Asriel do you know what I did soon as I got back?”

Asriel shook his head slowly this story for some reason has captivated his entire attention he drank deeply from his wine glass. “No tell me.” Isabella placed her glass down she gave a dark grin that caused a small ember to build in Asriel’s empty heart. Isabella’s voice grew dark “I asked her to escort me to my husband I proceeded to ravish him, tear him apart he is beautiful and he is mine so I could do that right? I enjoyed every part of it I watched myself look at me in pure and utter horror. After that I began tearing apart my lovely house it looked boring in my eyes utterly boring. I then burned all the prayer books and used the blood of my “Husband” to deface all the statues in the houses.”

Asriel felt his hand shaking for a moment he gripped it to calm himself before taking another sip. Isabella in return calmed down slightly she sipped from her glass, Asriel waited for the next part yet she would not speak. They just drank in silence, Asriel placed his empty glass down. “So what happened next?” Isabella refilled both their glasses she smiled. “I proceeded to visit each of my new friends and make them mine after that I killed them and destroyed their houses. Once I looked upon my work… I called it good. What is before me now is far more beautiful and wonderful.”

Isabella drained a great amount of her glass before placing it on the table. “I watched myself my boring self shaking her head in disgust. She no longer looked at me in horror and when I saw that face I said to myself. How could I make such a disgusting face? So I assaulted the other me I changed her face to one of rapture yet before I could finish she crumbled away and I awoke on my bed.”

Asriel watched Isabella grab her glass she drank the rest of it in one go. She licked her lips “so I walked around the halls and found strange cultists cleaning up the bodies I questioned them and gathered our lord had something to do with this.” Asriel inclined his head “indeed he does so what have you learned?” Isabella shook her head chuckling “I wonder if you have learned anything Asriel?” Asriel raised his eyebrow “what do you mean?” Isabella pointed at him “what if you fell under the trial and failed? What would our lord think of you then? I wonder what would he say at the death of Camilla?” Asriel disliked where this conversation is going but for some reason he blurted out loud “he would be disappointed and would forget me I guess…”

Isabella nodded “yet I have a good feeling he now loves us even more for passing or being exempt from whatever trial came upon us.” Asriel looked down at his glass “the gods can give and take away…we would not even see it coming...” Asriel mumbled he did not realise he would get into such a conversation with Isabella. Adelram’s words in the docking bay area came surging back.

Isabella frowned “what I realise if we don’t keep pushing the boundaries trying new things we will fall to the wayside and our wonderful lord will not even give us a moment of regard if we do. Yet I still can’t help but adore him.”

Asriel scratched his head hearing Isabella’s words he grumbled “I see your point… Adelram might do something similar again at a moments notice…” Asriel rose from his chair he nodded for some reason after that story he felt a small ember flicking growing slightly in his heart. “I thank you for the story Isabella.” Isabella gave him a gentle smile “think nothing of it. I assume you have things to do?” Asriel looked to the door “indeed I do.” Asriel began making his way to the door he stopped before leaving. He looked at Isabella for a moment as he said “I think I will visit you more often. What do you think of that?” Isabella’s eyed him she held her smile from before “I look forward to it. Please visit often.” Asriel returned a smile before leaving the room.

Asriel stood in the hallway the new cult at work cleaning up the bodies he stared at them he began speaking to himself “that could of been me… I wonder Adelram. After you have seen perfection and desire incarnate what are we next to that?” Asriel strode down the hall to continue his task his mind adrift after the conversation he had with Isabella.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/07 00:12:47


Post by: shinros


Yup....

Well are things going to get better or worse?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/07 13:44:23


Post by: lliu


That's pretty cool that the warband was better than Adelram thought. I like the idea of facing the Imperial version of yourself in this trial.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/07 13:58:37


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
That's pretty cool that the warband was better than Adelram thought. I like the idea of facing the Imperial version of yourself in this trial.


Yeah you could also say that what they also saw was the last vestiges of their humanity at the same time. In Adelram's mind he is like humanity? wuzzat? That thing that get's in the way of doing what you want? I don't like it!

Also another aspect is that those chosen a part of themselves might be unsure with their decisions.

Glad you like the chapter.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/09 13:09:47


Post by: shinros


Chapter 24

Walking to the next location he still thought on the conversation he had with Isabella, Asriel knew that Adelram would be happy if he does more he does not expect it from him but subtly he could see the cue’s that he wanted him to try. He scratched the back of his head in frustration the ember he felt in Isabella’s room has vanished and in the place of that he wanted another glass of that wine.

He thought about heading back and asking her for a bottle just one bottle, but he decided against it. Asriel sighed “finish the task first…” he trudged onwards towards Lily’s room as he approached he recalled she is somewhat of an enigma it’s clear she is not one of the faithful but at the same time it would be bad if the captain of the ship died. Asriel walked to to her door and knocked he waited for a moment until the light next to the number panel chimed green. The door slowly slid open, as he stepped inside the room he saw Luke lying on the bed staring at him he is clearly dead. His face is gashed and his arms and hands clearly bare wounds.

At the foot of the bed are two children with blonde hair crying over his corpse, he looked to his right to see the person who let him in. He saw Lily standing at his side staring at the bed to Asriel her eyes seem distant. He drew in her expression he could not even feel an ounce of remorse or sadness “you don’t care do you?” Her head slowly turned towards him she looked like she was about to say something. Asriel relaxed his eyes somewhat Lily gave a weak smile “am I that obvious?” Asriel faced Luke’s corpse “yes you are. So tell me did anything happen?” Lily shook her head slowly “I just watched Luke collapse to the ground I told my kids to stand back as Luke frantically tore at himself. I merely watched…” Asriel raised his eyebrow hearing that “you just watched?”

Lily looked to her hands “I did, my kids begged me to help their father but I wanted to watch to understand who he is. As he died he cried out for his parents not to hit him..” Asriel looked at Luke’s ashen face it all made sense considering how he acted in the past he was most likely abused by his parents. “So tell me Lily did he say anything else?” Lily turned her head to him “he did do you want to hear?”

Asriel faced her and inclined his head “I do.” Lily faced forward she leaned back on the wall slightly and closed her eyes. “As it went on he revealed he killed his parents in his mad ravings. It was like he was arguing with himself whether he enjoyed it or not. Whether they deserved it or not. In the end before he died he said he was sorry…” as she finished speaking Asriel watched her slowly open her eyes. Her face screwed into confusion “I can’t even bare a single tear. I am a horrible person aren’t I?”

He listened to all of this he gave a thin smile “you are not horrible because you never cared for Luke in the first place.” he looked over to her two kids staring at them for a moment “you got what you needed from him.” Lily bought her eyes to her children she mouthed slowly “yes I did…” Asriel folded his arms “if he wanted to be with you he would of not died. He allowed the weight of what his parents did and his justified act to defeat him from what I hear he did nothing wrong but in the end he relented and so he died.” Lily echoed his words “so he died…” she sighed “tell me what are being done with the corpses?”

Asriel eyed the door “a cult is cleaning them up. The bodies will be broken down and shot into space. I assume if you just leave the corpse outside it will be taken care of.” Lily gave a weak chuckle she stared at Luke’s corpse “I see… I will let them say goodbye to their father for a while longer before I place him outside.” he bought his eyes to Luke’s corpse as well “very well..It seems you are well I shall leave for now.” Asriel was about to turn until he heard another knock on the door. Lily moved to open the the door and the person who stepped in wore a fine red dress along with her headband. Lily moved aside as the visitor slowly walked into the room. Asriel spoke in surprise “Elizabeth what are you doing here?” Elizabeth flinched slightly she held her hands together meekly “I came to check on Lily…” Lily gave slight frown “I am fine I was just getting ready to move Luke’s body.”

Elizabeth’s eyes went wide she looked around the room eventually she bought her eyes to Luke’s corpse she shook her head “I-” Lily narrowed her eyes at her “don’t say it. There is no point.” Asriel stared at Elizabeth she seemed fine so that is another person he doesn’t need to check he only has one more and it’s likely Seasha is fine considering her nature. He has to check on Caius he is the last. Asriel stretched slightly “right I will be leaving I have things to do.” Elizabeth frowned “don’t either of you care?” hearing Elizabeth say those words annoyed him slightly “no I don’t also don’t pretend you care either.” he could see she was about to protest but her words died in her throat she looked away and that said everything.

Asriel pointed at her “considering you are alive you are just like the rest of us. Don’t try to consider yourself different. You are not special..” Elizabeth narrowed her eyes at him he can see the anger surfacing “I don’t need to take that from you! You weren’t even here! We-I had to endure being degraded! Used! Having to soil myself on my throne! Being force fed!” Asriel watched her tantrum “wel-” He was about to say something Elizabeth stabbed her finger into his chest cutting him off she continued her onslaught. “You think you are above everyone else! You are not special!” She gestured to herself and Lily “we were here before you! We know our lord far longer than you have! Yet he fawns over you like you are his son!” hearing this Asriel felt the need to reach for the knife at his belt at most he gripped it. “Elizabeth watch what you say….” said Asriel.

Elizabeth clenched her hands “Lily won’t say it but I will! All you are is trouble! Nothing but trouble and how you act!? Watching it!? After all I have been through it aggravates me!” Asriel gave a chuckle hearing this he looked over to Lily “what makes you think she agrees with you? Aren’t you just assuming?” Elizabeth looked at Lily for some reason he also found himself staring at her. He waited but she simply stared blankly at him she turned head away after a moment. “I think you should leave Asriel.” said Lily.

When she told him to leave Asriel could not help but sigh heavily they blame him for their eight years of suffering still. They won’t look to Adelram because they most likely cannot see fault in him anymore especially after this event so instead they turn their gaze to him. He gave a casual shrug “very well I shall go.”

He turned to the door and opened it and left without another word as he left he could still feel Elizabeth’s stare stabbing into his back. Now in the halls of the ship again for some reason he still felt annoyed and he is still holding the handle of his blade. Asriel briskly walked to Caius’ workshop trying to push Elizabeth’s words out of his mind. He hissed to himself “she is wrong… I should of…” His mind crossed with the thought of killing her he should of done that. Asriel shook his head he needed to focus on his task he walked onwards. As he made his way he can tell the halls are being cleared up and now the cult is as work clearing up as much of the blood as they can. A part of him felt that how the blood splattered on certain parts of the walls actually made interesting and strange patterns and at several points he told the workers not to clean certain sections, eventually he reached the doors of Caius’ workshop. As he got close to the doors the automatic doors slid open stepping into the workshop itself he saw Caius at a table tinkering at a device.

Asriel approached Caius saying “so you are alive and well Caius.” Caius’ head perked up he turned as he said “Oh it is you.” Asriel smiled “indeed it is me how are you?” Caius silently went back to tinkering his device it annoyed Asriel slightly “you could at least say something?” Caius stopped he grumbled slightly “you never make conversation with me. If you are I know that you are annoyed with something. As always those who are not close with the machine let trivialities cloud their thinking…” Asriel frowned perhaps Elizabeth’s words are bothering him now he regrets not actually killing her.

He then walked over to Caius “I am surprised you survived.” Caius released a long stream of binary he flicked towards him. “You are interrupting me just like he was interrupting me.” Asriel raised his eyebrow “he?” Caius went back to tinkering the tendrils that came from his robe grabbed a tool from the other end of the table. “He said to change and perfect devices is heresy. The only heresy is letting things rust, letting it wither. One should always try to make things better more perfect.” Asriel listened to this he found it interesting that the tech-priest worships the dark prince in his own way. “So you no longer worship the ominssiah then?”

Caius looked up from his device “I still believe in the ominssiah I merely believe he is not an aspect of the emperor. The emperor who sits on a failed device that no one understands or wishes to truly understand. To perfect it.” Asriel smiled hearing this “I see your perspective is quite interesting. I think you learned much from this event.”

The tech priest released an unnatural growl from under his hood he pointed his tool at him. “Yet you feel you have nothing to learn?” Asriel shook his head “I do… it-” Caius put the tool on the table. “I worked with many in my long years. Looking at you to me you are assuming you know or understand things above everyone else. That you don’t need to upgrade that you don’t need to get closer to the omnissiah. Astartes Adelram still thinks like an Astartes when he finds something more efficient to use he will use it and when it’s no longer efficient? He will discard it.”

Asriel narrowed his eyes at Caius as he flatly said “he won’t discard me. Never. I know I have to keep up things could ch-” Caius lowered his tool “things are changing, all the parts are changing. Things are being added, removed or even destroyed to make a even more efficient machine. I tell you this don’t become a rusty and useless piece because if you do you will be removed.” he fell silent hearing this, Asriel looked to his hands he searched for that empty feeling in his body. Hearing Caius say those words caused the abyss to become painful for some reason it was like it’s now strangling his heart.

He shook his head “I see… I thank you for the advice.” Caius merely gave him a look and then bought all his attention to his work. Asriel took that at as a hint he wants him to leave so he left. Exiting the workshop Asriel sighed “have I learned anything…?” he then began to make his way to Adelram’s chambers.

Asriel stood in front of the doors he pushed them open. As the doors slowly opened he smelt cooked meat for some reason as he walked inside he saw Salvador sitting on the floor in front of a large silver pantry dish which is full of meat. He sniffed the air he felt his mouth watering and a rumble in his gut. He creased his brow “finish the task for him first…” He bought his eyes to Adelram’s throne he saw him casually sitting watching Salvador salivate at the meat.

He walked foward, Adelram bought his eyes to him “so you are back…” Asriel nodded “yes I am done with the task.” His lord gave a gentle smile in return “I see.” His words caused him to frown “so that’s it?” Adelram raised his eyebrow “that’s what?” Asriel crossed his arms “do you want to know who lives?” his master rested his face on his fist slightly he also held his smile from before. “Oh yes do please tell me.”

Asriel inclined his head “Camila and Luke are dead. Everyone else is alive I assume the “guest” in my room is well considering her nature.” Adelram gave him a curt nod “I see..” Asriel clenched his hands again in annoyance. He stared at Adelram’s features for a moment and a small thought struck him. He most likely either knows who is alive or dead or he might not actually care. Thinking such a thought caused him to grimace slightly as his face distorted Adelram grin increased in size in reaction. He did not say a word and that is all he needed. Asriel was about to speak to ask why he sent him on such a task instead he looked over to Salvador who has begun eating. He silently walked over to him and sat down on the other side of the pantry dish.

Salvador smiled “do you want some brother?” Asriel looked down at the glistening meat he saw chunks of brown meat, hearts, livers and a host of other organs. Asriel looked up to Adelram “where has this meat come from?” His lord gave a small shrug “it came from the bodies of the Astartes who died. I had their progenoid glands removed first. Since Salvador did a good job guarding my servants for eight years I thought to give him a little reward.

Asriel held his gaze on the food “so this is a reward?” Adelram inclined his head “yes it is and Salvador told me wonderful stories of how he took on my brothers. It swelled my heart to hear them Asriel.” He could hear the approval in his voice the amount of pride and happiness he had for Salvador. He looked up to his brother and then down to the food. Asriel began stuffing his mouth with meat he ate as much as he can.

Salvador moaned in sadness “brother you are eating everything!” Salvador in turn began stuffing his mouth with meat along with him. Asriel kept eating the meat tasted wonderful the pain he felt in his body was vanishing his heart no longer felt constricted. He picked up a heart and tore at it his fangs tore large chunks out of the meat the mutation made it quite useful in eating the muscle.

Asriel felt his tail swishing as he ate, the surrounding room began draining away he could not see anything he just focused on the meal. After a moment eating he began to feel full but a part of him recalled that he is watching he had to keep eating. Asriel swallowed he felt the food moving down his body he reached for another piece he then felt a strange weight on his head. He looked up to see Adelram holding his head along with Salvador’s he began stroking it while smiling. “You two are quite hungry perhaps if you please me in the future I might prepare something similar?” Salvador nodded aggressively as he swallowed. “Yes please! It tastes so good!”

Asriel looked at the remaining meat it is almost all gone there is one piece of meat which is closer to Salvador he reached over and grabbed it which caused Salvador to cry out “t-that’s mine!” Asriel stuffed the meat into his mouth. Salvador’s bovine ears lowered in sadness “I wanted that…” Adelram looked down at him as he sternly said “that belonged to Salvador Asriel.” he could see his lord was still holding his gentle smile he was not cross with him. Even so he sighed and looked at Salvador. “Sorry.”

Salvador’s ears rose again he smiled showing his teeth “it’s okay I assume you were really hungry!” Asriel wiped his mouth with his hand “we have to work hard so we can get more meals like this.” Salvador nodded “yes we do!” Asriel looked up to Adelram “so what are we doing after this?” As he said those words he felt an unnatural chill in the air, Asriel held his gaze upon his lord waiting for his answer. His smile vanished as he said flatly “we must prepare to visit someone special. I am eager to meet him Asriel.” Asriel blinked several times “do I know this person?” His lord gave him a strange look the chill subsided as the warmth of the room crashed into his body. “You do actually know him and I think you will be quite happy with what I have in mind for this person.”

Asriel then folded his arms his mind began racing wondering who his lord wants to meet.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/12 00:52:52


Post by: shinros


A Short chapter since I am planning stuff for the next. It's going to be quite long.

Chapter 25

He breathed in the incense letting it fill his lungs, he sat crossing his legs, his eyes are closed searching for the meaning of this omen. Sweat dripped down his brow as his soul plummeted through the tides of the warp returning on old pacts. He questioned daemons of the great changer and scryed the tides of the warp and only one answer comes. “My doom…” said Izel.

He took another deep breath he inhaled as much of the incense he could muster he felt his mind splintering. He searched for the meaning of his doom what is coming to end him? Who seeks his end? Trying to grasp for that future all he sees is darkness he wondered if someone or something is blocking him from seeing that thread. Izel flicked his eyes open the warp drained away and his room is now bleeding into his vision slowly.

Izel hissed he locked his eyes shut again he can’t give up he will change it. He is a master of fate, favoured by the greater changer. He focused again and bought the future into view he clutched it tightly with his mind, Izel soul burned as he tried to pierce the darkness to at least get a hint to avert a possible disaster. He pulled at the darkness with all his might he saw a crack a slither of light he tugged harder, tearing away a small piece of the darkness his mind twitched in pain with such an action.

He stared at the hole he now made it’s so small but it might just save him. He drifted closer bringing his eyes to the light. Narrowing his eyes at it he saw something slithering through a pink wisp slipped through and the hole closed behind it. Izel searched for the wisp as it frantically moved around him the shimmering wisp glowed brightly in the darkness. He tried to reach for it but it slipped through his fingers the wisp suddenly hissed at him it took the form of a snake and launched itself at him.

The snake wrapped around his neck constricting it he thrashed trying to remove it, Izel summoned of a surge of psychic power. His soul shone with a brilliant light but something was different a sense of euphoria gripped him as his power surged through his soul. He gasped “s-stop!” a voice then shuddered through his mind and soul. The voice creased it gently the voice prickling at the pleasure centre's of his mind “”I have found you…” Izel struggled he hated this sensation the voice kept pounding within his mind and sending reverberations of pleasure through his soul and mind. “My dear brother how lonely you are watching after statues. They are the altar of your hubris but do not worry… you will be joining a new family where you will know happiness, for I am coming to retrieve you...since I care for you a gift while you wait for me...

The snake squeezed tight the head of the snake stared at him and shot into his mouth forcing itself down. Izel gagged as a wave of ecstasy cascaded through his soul slowly the snake slithered down his body. His eyes flicked open the darkness bled away to reveal his room. He fell to his knees gagging. The snake is still within his body he could feel it still slithering down twisting within his body. He clawed at his chest the waves of sensation he felt is too much he coughed as the snake crashed into his stomach. He could feel it slithering in his gut the waves of pleasure began to ebb away slowly Izel panted, spittle flaking his lips “who… or what…. Was that!?”

Slowly he sat upright and wiped his mouth he then touched his stomach he could not feel the snake. Nor pleasure either he shook his head. “There is no way a degenerate could get the one up on me!?” Izel closed his eyes he sent waves of his power through his body searching for any irregularities. He poured the most power into his stomach to purge whatever is in his body.

Soon as power touched that area he spasmed as a jolt euphoria shot through his body. He ground his teeth in frustration he sent even more power towards it his nerves lit up his lips trembled he shouted “w-why! I-I….” the pleasure shockwaves is causing his body to seize up he can’t concentrate, his mind too addled as his body is gripped in throes of rapture.

The power he sent through his body died with his concentration he fully collapsed to the ground gasping for air as the sensation slowly drained from his body. “I-I...need to prepare…” he recalled the words of the voice, Izel tried to rise from the floor but his body felt completely drained. He willed himself to rise staggering at the same time. He looked over to his throne where his staff and helmet is resting. Slowly he walked to it each step heavy, approaching his throne he gripped his helmet and slowly placed it on, after that his fingers edged slowly to his staff.

His stomach turned for some reason as his fingers locked around his staff. Izel clutched his eyes shut. He thought about the warning again he must prepare in case of… The lights in his room suddenly flicked to red warning sirens chimed loudly. Izel hissed in annoyance “he is here already!?” With his staff to balance himself he made his way to the door perhaps if he kills the one who placed this “curse” on him his doomed future will not come.

Izel staggered out of the room hoping, praying this is the case.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/13 20:23:40


Post by: shinros


Chapter 26
His hand flicked with ethereal energy the alarms on the ship roared ordering everyone to battlestations. Adelram placed his helmet on humming a small tune to himself he has come to save someone. He comes to bring his desire the only problem is that he does not realise it yet. The hatch of the dreadclaw drop pod opened as the gears within the machine moved Marthas approached, looking at him with one eye.

Marthas clearly looked weary, drained of all energy but that would soon change he looked at his ashen face. “You would not feel so tired if you use your other eye dear brother..” His dark apostle bought his plain eye upon him it looked clearly fatigued. “I don’t want to… not yet… I…” his voice trailed off, Adelram grasped his pauldron “you will go all out once we greet our cousins?” Marthas slowly nodded he rubbed his eye slightly. “Are you ready to take on their leader? Thousand sons are made up of powerful sorcerers.” Adelram gave a small chuckle he wondered how Izel is enjoying his gift at the moment. What he feels now is a mere taste of what he will acquire once he brings him over. “Do not worry Marthas I have prepared accordingly.” he began switching on the autosenes within his helmet. “From here things will change. I wonder how everyone will react to the sight of blood now? The din of battle and the cacophony of war? What will everyone do once the battle is finished and the chattel is there for us to use as we see fit?”

He could see Marthas is now confused wondering what he is talking about, Adelram removed his hand from Marthas’ pauldron he gestured to the dreadclaw “you wonder what I am talking about? You will see once we land upon the thousand son ship. Everyone is entering the dreadclaws. The remaining human forces are the thunderhawks with Salvador and Asriel leading them. Also he was somewhat eager to go with them at the least minute I doubt Asriel knows he is with them on the assault on the docking bay. And us?” he looked around he had this dreadclaw reserved only for both of them. “I want to see how you will react to battle personally…” His dark apostle was about to say something. To ask a question his words began spilling from his mouth but he ignored them. There is no more time for words. No more time to indulge in conversation, Adelram was eager to get to Izel. He needed to see him.

Silas strapped himself into the dreadclaw ironically his terminator squad survived whatever happened on the ship. They all sat in silence waiting for the launch it was so strange how this attack happened it was like Adelram knew exactly where the ship was going to be. He shrugged “no longer matters now…” His hearts constricted in excitement to be launched into battle. To hear the sounds of gunshots and the screams of the dying.

After a moment the hatched closed he flicked through his auto senses making sure everything is in order. He soon felt the dreadclaw shuddering as it launched into space swimming in the void towards the thousand son ship. His terminator amour began preparing to absorb the impact of the dreadclaw crashing into the ship. The feed within his helm detailed the shock absorbers going online and then came a thud. That even in the heavy plate of terminator armour caused him to buckle in his seat slightly.

Silas undid his belt he ordered “everyone get ready!” His terminators gave a curt nod in approval as they undid their belts. He faced the hatch as the melta’s began cutting into the ship his feed within his helm counting down 3...2….1. The hatch opened Silas rushed forward onto the ship. Stepping onto the ship itself he felt strange, like a part of him just died.

He couldn't feel his nerves, the adrenaline completely vanished and his mouth felt dry at the same time. Silas shook his head “what is going on?” He looked over to his terminators he could see by their body movements they felt the same. As he took another step he felt a strange empty feeling in his gut. Weariness began to set into his body. He grunted “I feel….” the words slurred as they passed his lips.

His power sword also began to also feel heavy, even with the supported strength of the terminator armour he had trouble moving around his sword. Silas looked down the hall, compared to their ship this one looked like a macabre library blue torches lined the ship walls, strange glowing symbols were also carved into the wall, papers, books and scrolls are also scattered on the floor.

Silas could see they were not prepared for this attack, his mind tried to formulate a plan moving forward but nothing would come. He is using all his energy just trying to stand up right. Then he heard boots banging on the floor, the sound creeping closer and closer until out of the darkness he saw humans wielding las-guns. They wore flak vests mixed with blue robes.

Looking at the dregs of the thousand sons he could see the sweat dripping down their brow, their eyes consumed with fear. Watching this swelled Silas’ hearts for some reason he wanted to see their reactions when he crashes into them. To spit on that hope, to drink up their despair to see their blood gushing to the floor staining the papers they now tread upon. He needed to kill them. He needed to see their agony. Silas felt his nerves tingling slightly he took a step forward and broke into a run.

His feet thundered as trudged towards the humans, his terminators followed behind him. The cultists of the thousand sons fired their las-guns in unison. Las-fire trailing down the hall. The shots dinged upon his plate the sound of las-fire cracking upon his armour filled his ears his mouth became moist again. Slowly the cultists edged closer and closer his hearts tightened in anticipation his mind raced.


He hefted his power sword he could feel some of the weight he felt before drifting away. Silas watched their faces he needed to keep his eyes on their faces as he crashed into them, a few strides more, just a few more steps and then he can drink in their agony. Another stream of las-fire erupted down the hall, this is their last volley before their torment can begin. Silas approached the cultists like a shark seeking prey he took one more step his shadow loomed over the first cultist as his frame crashed human and then Silas saw it. The despair gripping their face, the fear of death and the torment and pain that now grips their face in its entirety.

The human was sent flying into the air a stream of blood erupting from their broken body as they cracked upon the ground with a thud. All his terminators crashed into combat shattering the cultists’ resolve. He could see some of them were breaking way due to the assault. Silas roared “you will not run!” His blade began hewing through cultists. But for some reason the tingling of his nerves were subsiding, his mind roared telling him. That this is not enough, this is far from enough.

Feeling such a sensation he deactivated his power sword and swept his sword through the humans. Now he could hear the breaking of bone, the sound of the sword moving through their bodies also changed. The tingling sensation in his nerves returned he then twisted around and grabbed the head of a fleeing human with his free hand. They thrashed in his grip clawing and splintering their nails trying to escape. Silas squeezed slowly the screams erupting from the human sent a chill of ecstasy through his body.

The bone within the human’s head is buckling under his grip and soon it gave a wonderful crack as he clutched his hand fully and a stream of gore dripped down his hands. He dropped the corpse and looked around. The humans were dead, a heat gripped his body but as the seconds ticked away he felt a chill. His nerves are dying again, he felt his mouth drying. The weight of his sword began increasing, feeling all of this again vexed him.

Silas hissed at his terminators “we need to find more of the enemy! Now!” all of the terminators gave a curt nod of approval. Silas turned to face down the hall and broke into a run again. Crushing the remains of the humans they have killed, hearing the crunch under his boots bought a thin smile on his lips, but as they moved further into the hall the sound vanished. This caused a scowl to line his features and the frustration came back in great cascades.

Marius unhinged his mouth releasing a stream of sonic waves at the gors. They squawked and cried as they were turned to red mist. He could see sebastian slowly making his way down the hall with a group of Astartes slicing away at the tzaangors that tried to approach. Marius leveled his sonic blaster with his noise marines he wanted to take this slow. Stepping onto the ship for some reason caused an almost maddening deprivation of his senses. He is used to feeling it but now? It’s feels like he is dying. They would kill and feel waves of euphoria, but once the enemy is killed the deprivation comes back.

It comes back like a hound hackling at one’s ankles but feeling like this did not exactly bother him all it does is cause him to come up with more creative ways to kill, It shows him that he should fully embrace the cacophony war. That there is still joy and delight to be had in making music for his enemies. The tzaangors gave a sharp squawk as they charged again. Marius narrowed his eyes. “Hear the song of slaanesh…” he fired is sonic blaster in unison with his noise marines the waves of sound cascaded down the hall. The unnatural sound warping the metal of the ship. Marius boomed “change frequency and release!” at once his kakophoni did as they bade they worked the sonic blasters in a swift motion and fired again.

The second wave of sound trailed after the first causing the sound wave consuming the hall to reverberate loudly, Marius felt his ears bleeding. The sound was like a crack and then a boom even Sebastian and the Astartes that followed him were reacting well to his song. Marius grinned “the best part is coming…” he stared at the tzaangor’s as the first part of the wave crashed into them. The sound peeled away skin causing large pieces to slop to the floor with a splat.

The tzaangor’s began shrieking in pain, Marius hated the ugly beasts but the nice thing about them is that they scream loudly. He stared at their glistening muscle as their skin was torn away and then the second wave hit them. Blasting away their muscle and organs leaving ruined skeletons that clanked to the ground. The hall fell silent all that was left were the bones of their enemy.

Sebastian turned with his retinue they began clapping for him in praise. “You should do that again Marius.” said Sebastian. Marius smiled and inclined his head to his brothers. “I am trying to be creative… I am sure I will come up with far more interesting songs to share with the enemy.” They clapped for a few moments more until he heard the marching of heavy boots. The motion was almost instantaneous the praise stopped and everyone got back into position.

Marius stared down the dark hall he saw a blue light piercing the darkness he squinted his eyes slightly as suddenly a blue bolt shot down the hall cracking into one of the heads of Sebastian’s retinue. His head exploded in a shower of colour that oddly pleased Marius. He could also see Sebastian staring in almost wonder at the colours. That adoration ended as an astartes stepped out of the darkness a thousand son sorcerer walked his blue armour crackled with sorcerous power as his white and purple robe moved in the air as he walked. The sorcerer is also surrounded by Rubric Marines. Marius knew them to be statues in the likeness of Astartes moved by the will of the sorcerer. He leveled his sonic blaster at them a smile tugging at his lips.

Marthas stepped out onto the hall his mind wandering, aching in pain but walking on the ship now it’s like his mind is spasming in pain. All the colours of the ship is grey, his nerves feel dead the emptiness that now grips him is far worse compared to the ship. He looked over to Adelram. “You have done something else haven’t you?” His lord simply gave a whimsical chuckle “well the flowers bore other effects it merged with the air supply of the ship changing everyone. Making them better….” hearing that the flowers has made them better confused him. At this moment he felt worse, far worse even hefting his weapon Eligos is troublesome and it’s song does not stir his hearts, even trying to aim with his plasma gun is difficult trying to focus causes his vision to blur.

Marthas hefted his weapon over his shoulder to help with the weight, Adelram turned his head to him slightly “just bear it a little longer Marthas we are almost there.” He inclined his head back to his lord. “I know, so I assume we are heading to the bridge?” Adelram looked forward down the hall “yes, Tarkhan along with a squad are preparing to be teleported to our location once enough damage has been done to the ship. I am sure Lily will take down their void shields with ease...” Marthas watched Adelram begin to casually walk down the hall. “For now this moment is ours... Let us enjoy the way towards the bridge Marthas...” his vision started to clear slightly due to Adelram’s words.

It’s clear enough he wants to see what he can do now and he wonders what he has learned from the experience on the ship. Marthas tried to smile even just a little bit as he began following Adelram down the hall. They walked in silence as screams began bouncing through the ship halls, his lord is humming with them like it’s a song. He tried to listen to seek out what he is hearing, whatever Adelram is doing he does not seem to be reeling from the effects he is feeling now. Perhaps everyone in the warband is suffering from the deprivation.

Marthas cursed he tried not to think about it just listen to the screams, focus on that while walking. He let the sound enter his ears, letting it crease his eardrums while his mind tried to dissect and find the notes that Adelram is hearing. He listened, some were long and drawn out, others were short and quick and there were even those that were somewhat in between. Picking out certain ones he formulated a song in his head and he found himself humming along even his weapon seems caught in the tune.

The song permeated his mind he found himself closing his eye even in the middle of battle, he merely listened the weariness easing away slightly. He became lost in it everything around him draining away until he heard footsteps disrupting it. Marthas felt his face contorting into anger, to pure fury in reflex he almost opened his other eye. But held it shut.

He opened his normal eye the grey landscape flooding back, the song drifting from his mind, Marthas could see Adelram has also stopped humming. Before them is a group of Astartes, Rubric marine’s lead by a sorcerer there are nine of them in total. The thousand son sorcerer pointed his staff at them as it glowed with a soft blue light. “You dare to attack us degenerates!?” he stared at the both of them. “Only two? You must be foolish to walk these halls without sup-” Marthas leveled his plasma pistol at a rubric marine and fired.

The plasma went hurtling across the hall smashing into one of the statues causing it to erupt in eldritch light. The sparkling light made him feel a little better but it did not cause his rage to subside. “You interrupted us….” hissed Marthas. The sorcerer looked down at the Rubric marine, to Marthas he seemed to be staring at it like he lost something important. The thousand son leveled his staff at him and fired a bolt of blue energy at him. His lord stepped in front of him and raised his hand a wave of darkness erupted from his hands consuming the sorcerer's bolt of energy, devouring it greedily.

Adelram dismissed the energy, he turned his head slightly to him. “What are you waiting for Marthas? Isn’t this your moment?” Marthas looked at his lord and inclined his head “yes… it is..” he closed his other eye and moved to open the eye he has been gifted with. The eye lids felt stuck together and he found himself actually exerting some energy to open it. The eye slowly slid open as he put more effort into it. Adelram stepped aside to allow him to look upon the enemy and instead of a hall baring dull colours it was now awash with vibrancy.

Even the colour of the enemy sang to his senses, his ear drums tingled as he heard the clicking and inner workings of the ship. His brain and nerves felt like they were on fire the sorcerer gestured with his free hand as it moved through the air it seemed like time was slowing down. Second by second time was shuddering to a slow crawl.

The rubric marines stepped forth, they readied their weapons in silence. Marthas waited for what seemed like an age for them to point their guns at him. Each second felt like his mind is burning out the only thing that seemed to move at the correct pace is the sound emitting from his weapon. The only reason why he is waiting is because he wants to see what the vaunted Thousand Son’s can do and to immerse himself fully in this new gift.

The rubric marine’s after a eternity of moving and getting ready fired their bolter’s and in that instance he bound forward the eldritch bullets trailed through the air. Marthas twisted and turned he danced through each bolt while firing his plasma gun. Watching the Rubric marine’s explode in a brilliant light bought a smile to his lips he took down three with his plasma gun along with the one he shot before there are now only five left.

Closing into the enemy, the sorcerer slowly readied his staff firing another bolt of blue fire, the brilliant blue flame is going for his face. Marthas chuckled “the sorcerer seems hurt that I am destroying his statues…” he waited for the last moment he merely diverted his head slightly as the ball of flame seared pass his hood. Just by the sorcerer's movements he could see the shock even if he is moving in slow motion. Marthas took another bound forward launching himself into the close combat. He smashed the first rubric marine aside in a shower of eldritch light and dust and dove into the middle of the pack.

The rest of the rubric marines went for close combat weapons but he is faster, Eligos began smashing through the heads of the thousand son Astartes. His weapon trailing with eldritch energy and dust as the weapon moved through his enemies smashing them asunder. All of the rubricae were falling down in mid air the dust trailing downwards. He could see the sorcerer turning, Marthas twisted his weapon taking off one of his legs blood gushing out from the broken leg. Hearing the crunching of bone and the wrenching of the power armour as his leg gave way to his weapon caused a trickle of ecstasy to ripple through his nerves. Killing real people, crushing them is much more pleasing compared to animated statues.

The sorcerer and what remains of his rubricae tumbled to the floor, time suddenly ran it’s normal course. He stared at the dust on the floor stained by the sorcerer's blood he walked slowly up to the sorcerer who is trying to crawl away gasping. Marthas smiled he raised his weapon and bought it down on his other leg a shrill yelp came from the thousand son Astartes.

He twisted his weapon on the injury the grating of ceramite and bone caused him to lick his lips . He walked around to the front and raised his weapon again and smashed his right arm. Instead of a yelp it was a scream that single note caused a large grin to crease his face. He raised his weapon now drenched in blood and dust he stared at it the strange dust glinting brightly with the blood of the thousand sorcerer. Marthas then looked down at his helpless enemy, Marthas’ mind began roaring at him wondering why he stopped. His nerves began to slowly die again.

He bought his vision to the sorcerer's last remaining hand and smashed it. Another shrill scream erupted from the sorcerer's helmet. Marthas could hear the sorcerer heavily gasping for air trying to stay alive or figure some way out of the situation. He looked down at the sorcerer “there is no way out of this situation, none. You exist to allow us to feel something, nothing more, nothing less.” Marthas kicked the sorcerer over so he is looking upwards he rose his weapon again. “I wish this could last forever… so I thank you for letting me feel something for these few short minutes.” His weapon cracked down upon the chest of the thousand son sorcerer. In a rhythm his weapon rose and fall hammering down on the chest of his enemy until all that was left is a gory mess.

Silently he turned away to look at his lord standing his arms crossed, Marthas slowly shut his current eye and opened his normal one. All the vibrancy vanished, the sensation that gripped his body during that battle began ebbing away rapidly. His grin turned to a frown. Adelram sighed “if you are not going to us it all the time you should give it to me…” he walked up to him and reached for his closed eye. “How your pupil rapidly moved drawing in the information of your surroundings, how fast the bullets were moving, the colour…to me it looks like you are using one hundred percent of your brain. Marthas… I-” Marthas moved his hand away “No, it’s mine. I won’t give it to you.” he said firmly

Adelram gave a heavy sigh bordering on disappointment “fine.. Let’s go and retrieve what I came here for.” His lord walked past him without another word , Marthas turned and followed as they made their way to the bridge a flash of light clouded his version. As the light ebbed away he saw Tarkhan with a squad of Astartes at the ready. Upon seeing them he bowed. “Khan.” Adelram gestured “fall in. we are going to the bridge.” Marthas watched Tarkhan give another bow as he fell in behind Adelram. He could see just by his movements that Tarkhan is suffering similar effects to what he went through after leaving the ship. The fact he still seems to be at attention does show how on point he is. After having his temple annihilated again for some reason he sees things much more clearly now.

What he wants to know as they make their journey to the bridge is why Adelram is so interested in the leader of this warband. Marthas rubbed his neck slightly “we just have to wait and see…”

Asriel steadied himself on the thunderhawk as it’s packed to the brim with cultist warriors. Looking at them their hair is multicolored, their makeshift armor is in a mixture of colours and they bore tattoo’s showing devotion to the dark prince. The one taking up the most room on the ship is his little brother who is wincing in pain. “I feel strange…” said Salvador.

Asriel looked up to him “perhaps you ate too much?” Salvador shook his head “no… I just feel more hungry…” his little brother seems so agitated he tapped his chest. “Maybe you will feel better after you kill someone?” Salvador nodded slowly “perhaps…” Asriel could see that Salvador seems eager at the same time, to get to grips with the enemy. Looking at the faces of the cultists who did not wear helmets they all looked somewhat ill. He guessed that perhaps everyone on the ship, possibly even Astartes might be reeling from Adelram’s stunt.

Suddenly the thunderhawk rocked as it moved to enter the thousand son ship docking bay. Asriel sighed slightly he wanted to be with Adelram but since he is not an Astartes he can’t use a drop pod. If he attempted to on impact with the ship he would be reduced to almost a puddle of meat.

After a moment the thunderhawk ground to a halt. Asriel watched the bay doors opened the cultists got weapons ready and streamed out of the thunderhawk in a mad frenzy. The look of illness that held them before dripping away moment by moment. Asriel looked up to Salvador “time to go.” Salvador hefted his axe “aye.”

Asriel got his blade ready and ran down the bay doors stepping onto the docking bay he spotted that the other thunderhawks have landed, more of their forces are spilling out to overwhelm the enemy. He then bought his eyes to the enemy who are a mix of enemy cultists and tzaangors. Seeing the beaked beastmen caused him to remember the battle at the arena. Asriel smiled he took a few paces forward and readied a charge of bioelectricity in his hands and launched it at the first tzaangor. The lightning chained frying the tzaangors leaving blackened corpses collapsing to the ground.

Behind him he heard a shouting cultist he turned his head slightly and from under his cloak his tail swept out wielding a knife garroting the cultist that sought to attack him from behind. Salvador who is to his side cleaved off the head of another tzaangor smiling, his snout flaring in happiness as blood gushed to the ground. “Asriel I feel better again!” as he hacked in half another approaching enemy. Asriel smiled “keep enjoying yourself Salvador! We need to take the docking bay!” His brother nodded as he swatted aside a tzaangor. Asriel bound into combat his tail sought out enemies while he focused ahead of him with his sword. As the bloody battle went on he could feel the pain and misery emitting from every dying breath and scream. He held onto that, the emptiness slowly glutting itself on the torment provided by this battle.

A stream of darkness erupted from his body, he remembered this feeling he gathered it and launched it at the enemy. Shrill screams and squawks erupted from the enemy forces as they fell to the ground screaming in agony. Asriel could see they were whittling them down slowly but surely they will take the docking bay. He smiled as the enemies of his lord convulsed in agony. But something interrupted that he heard heavy footsteps out of the darkness of the hall he saw thousand son Astartes. Asriel kissed his teeth in annoyance, eldritch fire began pouring down towards them incinerating their forces.

Asriel darted back to cover, if it was just one or two he could take them on, but a whole squad? He bit his thumb slightly drawing blood. “This is not good….” Looking at the docking bay he could see one thunderhawk the door’s haven’t opened yet for some reason. He poked his head out of cover to see their forces are being pushed back, Salvador has also ducked into cover.

He cursed, he did not want to let Adelram down, he can’t let him down. Asriel was about to run forward until he heard a bay door opening behind him. He turned to see someone familiar, his footsteps thundered as he walked down the bay doors. Noxus roared out “more enemies to slay!” He charged into battle not giving a care who got into his way. He aimed right for the Astartes the eldritch bolts cracked against his chassis. Yet he paid no mind to them as he barreled into the thousand son Astartes.

Eldritch light burst from their bodies as Noxus crushed and smashed the enemy with his fist. His power scourge darted and pierced the sorcerer's that directed the rubricae. Seeing this spectacle renewed the resolve of their forces they spilled forward like a tide consuming the enemy. Asriel looked over to Salvador, their eyes met as they nodded to each other. At once both of them leaped out of cover, Asriel sliced a tzaangor who gave a shrill squawk before he died he tried to peck him with his beak.

He remembered such an attack twisted to the side and removed his head in a single motion from his blade. Noxus battering the Astartes and their renewed assault is breaking the will of the enemy. Soon the docking bay will be theirs it’s just a matter of time.

Adelram casually walked down the hall leading to the bridge, he can feel the gift he has given to his misguided brother. He knows what he wants and he has come to deliver that. Tarkhan spoke his voice barring some edge “I am surprised we did not encounter much resistance.” Adelram turned his head back slightly “well yes, this warband is rather small. We actually outnumber them considering the event that occured on our ship.” Tarkhan raised his hand to the chin of his helmet “I see..it’s unfortunate there are not many opponents on this ship…” he could sense the disquiet in his champion’s soul, in truth by now it’s in everyone’s soul.

They all seek more, perhaps once this is done he will let them have fun with the dreg’s of the ship. As they approached the doors of the bridge they opened, stepping inside it revealed a crew staring at them in complete fear. In the middle of the bridge stood his target. “Izel we finally meet!” The sorcerer going by his stance looks weary, weak even.

Izel hissed back “what do you hope to gain sybarite!? Destroying everything I worked for!?” Adelram could see that he has most likely sent all forces to defend the ship hence why he is alone. He gestured to his entourage “wait at the doors for me. Do not enter until I am done.” Tarkhan, Marthas and the Astartes that followed him gave a curt nod of acknowledgement before leaving. He took a few steps towards Izel, Adelram stood a few paces away he could see that he is awaiting an answer to his question. “You see Izel I have come to give you what you want. Without you I would not be who I am today. So to make this easy I shall ask. Join me. Join me and know the delights of the galaxy!” Izel spat back in anger “join you!?” Izel shook his head laughing slightly. “Who would want to join degenerates!? Sybarites who know nothing of brotherhood!? A legion who seeks to only gratify their senses in a misconception that they are achieving perfection!?”

Adelram reached his hand out “so are you happy here Izel among dust and statues? Seeking to cure something that cannot be cured?” the sorcerer hissed back “it can be cured! I know it can!” he could see his wayward brother is so drunk on the hope of restoring what he lost. Trying to restore something that would never come back. “Or perhaps… you should of never attempted that ritual in the first place? While I sat in the palace shifting through the desire of the one I seek to give happiness to I saw a part of you wanted to leave it all behind. See new places, new worlds and experience new things...instead of being coped here trying to fix something that may not actually be broken…”

Adelram could see his words struck home he took a step forward. “A part of you thinks your god wanted your brothers to be this way. That he wanted you to attempt that ritual with Ahriman, he fed on that hope like a glutton and now you run around the galaxy trying to reverse it. You burn worlds, sacrifice thousands in that vain hope to find brotherhood again.” Adelram stretched out his hand further “so I have come to offer it.. As you can see all of my brothers are happy. They know of the delights I provide and as they kill they are consumed with rapture. I wish to offer that happiness to you.” Izel gripped his staff and pointed it at him. “Like a snake you wish to twist the hearts of any you come into contact with. I know what kind of lonely creature you are. I have true purpose, I seek a future where I can truly fight with my brothers again. What you do? Is twist people into a former parody of themselves!” Adelram watched Izel’s staff beginning to charge with energy, sighing he drew his blade. “So you want me to make you see then? I am sure right now you feel the gift I gave you?” his wayward brother shook his head. “I can bear it, for their sake I can. Nothing will stop me! Not you! Not even the gods themselves!” Izel’s whole frame became consumed in sorcerous fire it expanded and began enveloping the bridge. Anything the fire touched it melted or incinerated the mortal crew began running for their lives but the only problem as they left they ran straight into the arms of his brothers outside.

Adelram could hear the screams coming from the door. He gripped his blade and pointed at Izel “show me your resolve so I can show you how futile it is!” Izel roared he drew all the energy into his staff and fired a ball of sorcerous fire. Adelram stood in place holding his broken blade he knew his psychic might is not equal to a thousand son. But the years training with this blade taught him a few tricks.

As the ball of fire hurtled towards him he pushed the broken blade into the ball of fire halting it. The tempature in his armour is rising rapidly, a sensation he has not felt in 8 years came flooding back. The sweet nectar of adrenaline consumed his body he drew the fire into his weapon forming the psychic sword. Steadily the fire was devoured leaving Izel staring at him stunned. Adelram pointed his blade at Izel the blade now formed with the very fire he aimed to kill him with. “Here… let me return you gift to you…” The ball of blue fire shot out of the blade crashing into Izel sending him flying.

Izel howled in pain as he skidded across the floor sparks flying as he moved across the ground. Adelram strode up to Izel who is now on his knees trying to get up, he guessed that if his armour was not warded he would be in a worse off condition. Adelram knelt down in front of him and removed his helmet. Adelram looked at his coppery skin, his head bare but his face seemed quite young and chiseled. He spoke softly to him “so your time with the thousand sons ends with this…” Izel looked up at him blood streaming down his face. “T-this i-is n-not my doom…”

Adelram removed his helm and smiled “of course not. I have come to deliver you. I am sure Asriel will be happy to see you again.” he leaned down slightly to him “you are partly a suprise all he knows is that this is a thousand son warband we are attacking.” Izel looked up and gave a weak chuckle “you don’t care about that human pet of yours. He is but a dog to you…I tried to warn him...what does that human see in you?” he gasped. “I-” Adelram grasped Izel’s face tightly keeping him from speaking “I know what he sees in me. I know everything. Back then when I kept him from being taken by the daemon I should of realised it. But now? I do. There is nothing wrong with him thinking that way. If only all of them thought of the warband as family then they would be more happy. Still families can be dysfunctional at times… perhaps that’s why all those events happened in the past? Perhaps you will understand once you join?” Adelram removed his hand from his brother’s face. Izel then spat “I-I won’t join you!” he smiled watching Izel’s resistance to the prospect, Adelram sighed slightly as darkness began exuding from his body. Slowly it moved to consume Izel who is now panicking “N-no!” said Izel.

Adelram watched the darkness crawl over his body slowly reaching for his face, as it touched the face of his wayward brother he began screaming in agony. Adelram smile thinly watching this “Don’t scream too much Izel… this is just the start…”



Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/13 20:24:14


Post by: shinros


He messed with the stage. Perhaps he should of listened to the space elf?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/14 13:24:02


Post by: lliu


 shinros wrote:
He messed with the stage. Perhaps he should of listened to the space elf?


Maybe. At least they’re getting back some of thier former numbers


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/15 04:23:46


Post by: shinros


lliu wrote:
 shinros wrote:
He messed with the stage. Perhaps he should of listened to the space elf?


Maybe. At least they’re getting back some of thier former numbers


Yup getting things back on track! Then they can go out into the galaxy and spread pa-joy! To everyone!


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/15 22:58:32


Post by: shinros


Chapter 27

Gazing at the carnage wrought on the docking bay caused his heart to swell but as the battle ended the emptiness came swinging back. The adrenaline drained away, replacing it with a pounding headache. Asriel removed his helmet he tried to breathe in the scents compounding this splendor, dissecting them to ease the pain within his mind. It’s not the sort of pain he found pleasing it’s like an ache, a tugging reminder that he should be seeking the next thrill, the next sensation. A part of him had to appreciate how Jedrick was able to endure this with a straight face, he always acted like he was absolutely fine, even aware. Perhaps what kept him sane is the need to find the one to kill him.

Bringing his gaze over to the cultists they were already mutilating and violating the bodies in a mad frenzy. What Asriel found impressive is watching them fight, the sheer fanaticism that gripped them during the battle. As they died they laughed, as they killed they sang and finally when the battle ended while desecrating the corpses you would think they are happy but…”they are are full of sadness…” said Asriel.

He looked over to Noxus who is now drenched in blood and dust, he strode up to him forcing a smile. “I did not know you came with us.” The helbrute turned grasping a dead sorcerer in his fist. “I was needed here, plus I doubt my brothers enjoy my presence…” Asriel could not help but laugh he knows him. Before he had no reason to fight, to kill to seek sensation. Still one thing Asriel knows thrill seeking is much more interesting and fun when done with companions. Noxus grunted “what’s so funny?” Asriel wiped his eye as he chuckled “you being dishonest. You were worried about me weren’t you?” Noxus in reflex crushed the dead sorcerer he boomed “No I did not care! I just knew that there would be Astartes to kill on the docking bay! Nothing more!” he threw the mutilated corpse aside. Asriel sighed watching Noxus’ denial he then turned his large frame to look upon the cultists, Asriel could see he is trying to divert the subject away. “I bet he is encouraging this…” said Noxus.

Asriel followed his gaze he stared at one countinully stabbing the face of a cultist belonging to the the thousand sons, weeping as their blade slammed into the eye socket repeatedly. “There is nothing wrong with encouraging it. If it keeps neverborn from invading the ship, plus I think everyone is a lot more happy now.” The helbrute grumbled in annoyance “he killed half the warband to change everyone. I hope it’s worth it that’s all…” he then yawned “wake me up once we are done. I grow… tired…” his form then leaned forward slightly. Asriel stared at his… armoured friend now drifting to sleep. He shook his head “we should honestly call you the sleeping giant…” He turned and searched for Salvador he spotted him in the corner dragging a thousand son sorcerer. Asriel cursed he ran over as he closed in he spotted his brother working his power axe to tear off the Astartes breastplate.

As the chestplate popped off his brother began drooling he then switched his grip to near the head of the axe shaft. He used the blade to begin cutting off a piece of meat. His little brother hefted the meat upwards and opened his mouth. Before he could drop it Asriel slapped the meat from his hands. Salvador winced, Asriel doubted that even hurt him. “Don’t eat them!”

Salvador frowned “why? I am hungry…” He pointed at his foolish brother “you have to be careful eating the minions of the change! Load them on the thunderhawks! Let Adelram sort through them first!” He could see by his brother’s eyes that he really wants to eat the sorcerer. “Salvador just listen to me? Okay? Hold on just for a little while longer.” His beastial brother rubbed the hand he slapped. “B-but I want to eat them…I like the gene-seed. I want to see how it tastes...” Shaking his head Asriel sighed heavily. “You don’t want to make Adelram cross do you?” as he mentioned their lord’s name in such a manner Salvador quickly shook his head frantically. “N-No! I don’t want to displease him! I-I don’t want to make him mad!” in quick motion he grabbed the legs of the sorcerer and began pulling him towards the thunderhawks without another word.

Watching his brother frantically drag the sorcerer he guessed that the scars with his sister are still fresh. He thought that he would feel some measure of distaste at pretending to be his brother but he guessed all of his sense of morality has been stripped away in its entirety. The sense of betrayal he felt that his sister was complacent in his misery caused his mind to essentially crash. So in turn he instantly latched unto someone who treated him like family. As Salvador dragged the Astartes to the thunderhawk an idea stuck him.

As the idea began formulating in his mind the headache slowly drifted away, Asriel beamed as he spoke “Perhaps? I should find us a sister? Perhaps that will make him happy?” stroking his chin as he said those words out loud caused a sense of excitement to grip his body.

Marthas stood at the doors with Tarkhan and the other Astartes from the warband they waited in silence as screams erupted from the door behind them. He looked down at the dead bridge crew “I wonder what he is doing?” he said out loud. Tarkhan shifted his gaze to him “I assume he is doing his work to make the leader join us.” For some reason he could not help chuckle as Tarkhan said that. He looked to his hand and for some reason started to think on the past.
He wondered what caused Adelram to capture him in the past? What made him different compared to everyone else? He then bought his eye to Tarkhan. “Do you wonder? Why he chose us? He could of killed us but yet...” Marthas shook his head he wondered if he felt doubt or if it’s the withdrawal talking. He searched his hearts he did not find any hint of it perhaps he knows it’s far too late and it’s just merely his weary mind speaking out loud. The chogorisian stared at him “To overlook the gold in your palms….”

Marthas blinked in confusion he could see the rest of the Astartes are also staring at him. “What does that mean? Can you speak plainly?” Tarkhan sighed heavily “I am speaking plainly but I shall explain. You don’t realise the gold he has placed in your hand. You are overlooking what he has given you.” he then raised his hand that is shaking slightly. “This emptiness that grips us is for our sake. In order for us to find happiness and in turn making us the sharpest blades.” Marthas held up his hand also, the hand which is now shaking from withdrawal “to find happiness? To be the sharpest blades?”

The bladesmen inclined his head “yes, we share in each others pain. We know how the other feels and so can understand the need to seek more. This battle was also to test these changes. In this state if you look at our Khan he is… a lonely figure.” Marthas almost gasped in surprise as Tarkhan said that he could also see the others are also grumbling slightly. “Lonely? Are you serious!?” Tarkhan removed his helmet he stared at him. “Yes I am serious. I assume you do not know our lord’s history. He told me of it a few years ago and now I understand. Tell me what sort of person did you think our Khan was? He was there during the time of Horus. Tell me what sort of person you think he was back then?”

One Astartes spoke up, Marthas could see he is a survivor from the daemon attack from the past. “He kept to himself. He did not fit in with us many… thought he was defective. Yet for some reason he rose in the ranks rapidly.” Tarkhan nodded “indeed. Now I say this whenever he is betrayed he forgives, quite easily in fact. Most chaos lords would kill those who betray them. But he knows what it feels like to be alone, isolated clawing for attention and love.” Marthas looked down now his obsession makes perfect sense in turn Abbadon’s request was most likely a veiled attempt to recruit him. “He wants brotherhood.” Tarkhan smiled “indeed he does. In a sense he in his own way views this warband as a sort of family. We may argue, we may fight and hate one another but at most he wants all of us to be happy for he knows what isolation feels like. Tell me as you killed how did you feel? You were stronger and faster but you were also...” Marthas finished his words “happy.”

The chogorisian nodded “that one named Jedrick. Did anyone understand him? I imagine he felt the same emptiness we feel now everyday. How was he treated?” Tarkhan bringing up Jedrick caused him to crease his brow. Back then he thought him to be a fool, an idiot who does not grasp the dark prince but in the end he proved them all wrong. Seeing him as a daemon prince showed that they were all the fools. He sought his happiness and so he rose to new heights. As he walked to his death no one understood his decision or why back then Adelram most likely did not understand it either. A part of him must of felt solitary despite his kinship to their lord he had no one that understood what he felt. The agony of also sitting and dealing with the extreme withdrawal. Perhaps if they were all like this Jedrick might of not walked into his death.

As this emptiness gnaws at him, even if all the colours are dull he knows in those sweet moments of happiness. Those moments eclipses his old life, he used to fight for a dull and empty cause. A cause that none of them even understood truly, fighting for a crumbling and dying empire that now merely exists to give them amusement and purpose. “Tarkhan I understand your words. Thank you for enlightening me.” Tarkhan gave a curt nod as he placed his helmet back on. “Now let us wait for our lord to be done with us work and welcome our new brother with open arms.”

Marthas looked at the doors as the screams echoed from it “Indeed let us wait…”

He held his wayward brother by the robes staring at his face drenched with blood. He could sense his need to be with brothers again. He merely does not understand the rubricae are no longer his brothers, he needs to understand what he is giving him. “Izel you must understand that what you seek is right in front of you. I am able to give it to you. All you need to say is yes.” the sorcerer's mouth trembled “I-I know what you are… you are a snake...a black shadow that eats and spits out vile monsters in your wake.” Adelram touched Izel’s forehead on his smiling “at least my monsters are happy. They smile as they kill, the sing as the tear apart the enemy and they cry once the joy is gone…” he leaned back he searched for the gift that’s squirming within Izel’s body. The snake that is now weaving itself into his brother’s whole being. Adelram pricked it slightly and in return Izel spasmed in his grip gasping he said “d-don’t!” Adelram gripped the snake tighter, Izel roared in a mix of pain and pleasure. His head sagged back. He released his grip as Izel’s eyes rolled back. “You won’t drift away. I won’t let you.” Adelram went to his pouch and pulled out a needle gun.

Piercing the needle into his neck he looked at the multi coloured petals floating in the mixture and pressed the trigger. He stared as the mixture was injected into his system. He has been experimenting with the flowers within his garden and created a ambrosia Izel is the first to have a taste. The sorcerer began spasming again his eyes returned to normal and he began crying out “It wasn’t a mistake! We tried to save them! Why! Why!”

His brother thrashed in his grip, Adelram smiled “I need to see this.” He placed his hand on Izel’s head and closed his eyes. There are no defenses in place so it was easy to slip into his mind he dove into the darkness as he landed the darkness bled away to reveal a room. The room had scrolls trailing off book shelves and strange blue lights illuminated the room. In the middle of the room stood Izel staring at a group of thousand son sorcerer's, in return they stared at him grimly. His wayward brother pointed at them “It wasn’t a mistake! We tried to save them!” Adelram folded his arms he guessed this is some time after the rubric of Ahriman was cast.

He watched Izel bringing his eyes to another sorcerer who bore nine shimmering eyes that blinked sideways his skin holds a blue hue. “Arash! You saw how the flesh change was consuming the legion! You must underst-” Arash held his hand up “enough Izel! You destroyed us! You destroyed us with that fool Ahriman!” Arash’s hand then thrummed with blue energy. “I should destroy you for what you did! But…” he silently lowered his hand. “Our father has decided otherwise. Everyone that aided the traitor will be exiled. You are to take a gunship and leave. Never return.” He watched the pain crease the face of his brother, the hurt, anguish he could not help but smile seeing this. Izel shook his head “it wasn’t meant to be like this...we thought…” Arash spat back “you thought wrong! Who are you to decide what is right for us!? Who is to say there was not a hidden purpose in what was happening!? Now our brothers have turned to dust! They are statues! Dumb wraiths who can’t even react or speak!? I hope you are pleased with yourself… your actions was full of selfishness and hubris!”

Arash turned away along with his cadre of sorcerer's “I want you gone in the next two hours. If I see you I will not hesitate to kill you.” they left the room without another word. Izel merely dropped to his knees in disbelief. Adelram strode forward and held the shoulder of his brother “you tried and look what happened.” Izel stared at the door blankly “I... didn’t do anything wrong. Yes I supported Ahriman but we all did for their sake….he… was the same.” Adelram looked at the door “yet now you wander to fix a mistake that will not be reversed…” Izel looked up at him almost pleading “what do you mean!? Why can’t it be reversed!? I have given up so much! Destroyed worlds! Offered up the souls of the innocent to be guzzled on daemons! So why can’t it be fixed!?” Adelram knelt he spoke firmly “because you are contending with a god who seeks to keep it this way.” Izel’s eyes went wide “he has given me the power to search!” he cried out. Adelram spoke softly in turn “he gave you power to serve him.”

Adelram watched Izel look down to his hands “so you are saying everything I have done is pointless?” Adelram smiled “blame tzeentch he forever dangled the carrot in front of you. To always yank it away while he fed on your hope. The great changer laughed as his little marionette danced across the galaxy. Yet he did not realise that a part of you just wanted to fight with brothers again, to talk with to kill with.” Izel clenched his hands he fell silent as everything he has worked for came tumbling down. He then spoke in almost a whisper “will… things be better? No more wandering?” Adelram inclined his head “Yes you will be happy and for once you well have a place.” he then rose and stood before Izel who is still on his knees. He reached out his hand “I come to offer you a new life. Take my hand.”

His brother seemed unsure just for a moment but he slowly reached for it and grasped his hand. The room began melting away Adelram watched Izel’s face and just for a second he thought he saw him smiling it was the sort of smile one does when an age of hardship finally ends. He blinked and now he is staring at Izel who is slack in his hand. Adelram removed his hand from his head and turned his head back slightly. “Marthas! Tarkhan!” after calling out their names the bridge door opened. Both of them gave a small bow. “We are leaving. Do a final sweep of the ship!” They both gave curt nods before leaving the bridge again.

Adelram then bought his vision to Izel who is now unconscious, he wondered how Asriel will react to his a new brother.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/19 01:06:03


Post by: shinros


Chapter 28
Standing in front of the door a strange sense of foreboding tingled his body, Adelram has told him that Izel has chosen this room to stay in. His lord also noted that it would be good of him to visit the one who made him who he is now. When his uncionous form was delivered to the thunderhawk Asriel did not know what to think or what to say. In a manner of speaking in the past he was correct about the wraith but at most back then he was trying to ensure his plot reached fruition. He took a deep breath and knocked once on the door, the sound ringing in the hallway. He tapped his fist on the door one more time yet nothing.

Before he could knock the door again it slowly opened. Asriel walked into the room, what he found is a Astartes wearing a black robe, his armour now black and pink. His helm is a curved horned mark IV helmet. The most defining thing about the one before him is the metal collar around his gorget. At the centre of the collar a rune of slaanesh is dangling from it. As Asriel approached he could see the one he is visiting sitting in the corner of the empty room holding his knees. “Hello Izel, Adelram said to come and visit you.” the sorcerer looked up at him he shook his head. “I can’t believe you are still alive…” the door slid close behind him with a click. He took a few more steps towards to the Astartes. Izel raised his hand at him it glowed with eldritch power, Asriel stopped he watched Izel trying to form the psychic energy but his arm spasmed, the energy soon died away. “W-what has he done to me!?” he gasped “I can’t concentrate….whenever I seek to use my sorcery...that sensation…I can’t handle it….”

Asriel began walking towards the sorcerer again he spoke as gently as he can. “I am sure whatever he has done it’s a gift…” Izel’s eyes shot up to him. “Gift!? What kind of gift is this!? I wake up and my gear has been changed! I also have this thing around my neck feeding…. Something into my system. Now I can’t think… I can’t…” Asriel slowly walked to Izel and sat down next to him. “You can’t hate him can you?” the ex-thousand son shook his head “I can’t hate him… why can’t I? After everything he has done to me…” Asriel looked up to Izel “think of what he has done to me. Yet I am still here by his side.” the sorcerer looked down slightly “I took you for a mad fool… yet look at me now… sitting in the ship of my tormentor..” Asriel smiled “tormentor? Do you really think that? Or are you just deflecting? You are happy you just don’t want to admit it.” Izel hissed at him “why am I even talking to you? A human!”

He shrugged in response “I was merely curious about the one who sought to “save” me.” Izel sighed heavily “I was so close...I watched the wraith claiming his prize… but you pulled the rug from under him…a human annihilating and disrupting my whole network. All the warbands were eating out of the palm of my hand…” Izel reached out and clenched his hand. “A beaten pet… destroying everything…” Asriel frowned hearing that “I am not his pet…” The sorcerer retorted “Oh.. I am sorry I meant slave…” he narrowed his eyes at the sorcerer “considering he dove into the realm of chaos itself for me I don’t think you can talk about our relationship sorcerer…” Izel chuckled “dove into the realm of chaos itself? I doubt it…” Asriel folded his arms “he did, tell me sorcerer have you ever looked inside Adelram’s head? Trust me you should he is forever marked by the experience. He did meet a god after all..” as he mentioned god he could see he caught his attention. “A god you say? I find that hard to believe considering your lord is not a gibbering fool…perhaps he is? Considering his past decisions?” the need to go for his weapon gripped him when he said that. Asriel spoke firmly “watch what you say sorcerer….you can insult me.. But don’t insult him…”

Izel laughed at him. “What can do you? You are but a human, I-” Asriel interrupted him “a washed up sorcerer who’s warband was devoured utterly by us. We chewed you up and spat you out once we savoured you. You are not a thousand son anymore, you are not a fabled seer of multiple futures but a psyker who has now drunk from the well of pleasure and now cannot stop...” The sorcerer raised his hand at him again power erupted from it but his hand spasmed again. He could hear him gasping. The energy began sputtering, it then slowly fizzled away. Izel slammed his fist on the ground. “I can’t focus!” Asriel rose and looked down on at Izel. “you are still trying to deny what you feel instead of embracing it hence why you can’t use sorcery. I think I am satisfied a disillusioned sorcerer who can’t accept he is in a new family…” he walked away Izel began shouting at him as he left. “I am still powerful! I am still in control! I am...” Asriel stopped at the door “you are one of the Emperor’s Children now. In your heart you know it but your mind? It’s trying to reject what you feel.” Asriel pushed the button to open the door and left without another word.

As the door closed behind him he could hear the sorcerer raving at the top of his voice. He guessed he is not used to a human talking to him in such a fashion.

He shouted at the door “I have my own will! My own agency! I-” the words died he allowed a human to get the best of him. He slunk back to his sitting position it’s hard to think to even move. Izel picked at the collar on his neck, he woke up with it, he found himself on a operating table in a white room. His first instinct was to attack the lord of sin but he couldn't. He knew he should but he could not commit to the action. The affection he showed unnerved him like they knew each other for a long time. He told him he wants to get out of the room and he let him. He even allowed him to wander the ship, the only reason why he is in this room is because it’s empty and he could be alone with his thoughts.

Sighing, Izel tried to summon some of his power, even a meager speck of it. He watched his hand glow and then it came. The spasming waves of sensation that drums through his body, the more power he summons the worst it gets. He gasped “I can’t….” He clenched his eyes shut in frustration he wondered what his father Magnus would think of his current state. That he allowed himself to be captured by sybarites and degenerates. He shook his head. “I was exiled...what home do I have? What….” he spoke slowly “what legion do I have? What brothers do I have?” his whole focus on finding some way to heal his brothers but now the ones who followed him on such a path are now broken bones and dust.

His mind drifted to the human, he wondered what exactly did he see in the lord of sin? He finds it hard to believe that an Astartes would dive into the empyrean itself for a human. Considering also that he is a member of the third. All he has seen of them is that they are a selfish, disgusting and a mockery to their past. What could of happened to cause him to do that? Izel slowly got to his feet. “What could of happened to make him so powerful?” he recalled how he returned his attack on the bridge. Doing such a thing would require such intricate precision in handling one’s psychic power a misstep would cause one to be incinerated.

Izel stared at the door he narrowed his eyes. “He met a god? Impossible…” he took a step towards the door his body trembled. He clenched his teeth down he did not want to groan he won’t allow himself to do that. Slowly step by step he made his way to the door. He opened it and stepped out into the hall. Looking around bought a small amount of distaste, his ship every hall had some manner of esoteric knowledge carved into the walls of ship. He encouraged learning in his serfs. All of them had knowledge or providence in a certain subject but gazing at the halls of this ship? He sees random colours spluttered on the wall mixed with blood, the sounds of screams echoing down the dark hall.

This ship is simply a den of depravity nothing more, nothing less.” said Izez, as he gazed at the wall a serf passed him by he pointed at them. “You!” the human jumped “y-yes my lord?” he grunted at least this human at least knows some measure of respect. “Tell me where is the chamber of the lord of sin?” the slave’s eyes lit up upon hearing mention of the lord of sin. “Lord Adelram? The glorious one? Bringer of darkne-” Izel hissed “I asked for directions!” the serf gulped he pointed. “Walk down the hall and make a left. Then when you get to a cross path take the right and if you continue walking you will come to a pair of double doors. That is where our lord’s chamber is located.” soon as he had what he needed he left the serf without another word. It vexed him that they were also fanatics as well.

The humans would most likely smile and praise the lord of sin’s name even if he beat them to death on his ship the prospect of punishment would cause those who serve him to shudder in fear. He sighed as he walked down the hall and made a left as instructed. What caught his attention is he heard a large scream coming towards him out of the darkness he saw a cultist wearing the colours of the thousand sons running for his life. Upon seeing him the cultist stopped in his tracks shaking his head, his robe and gear is filthy and there are strange bruises lining the exposed parts of his body. He stammered “n-no p-please…I-”

Before he could saying anything else two figures piled onto him two androgynous females who look to be cultists of the emperor’s children began tearing the man apart with knives. He screamed in agony. Blood pouring upon the floor of the hall. He stared at this… spectacle he watched the cultist slowly die as the knives plunged into his body. Once he sagged to the ground dead both of the attacking cultists rose they stared at him. For some reason despite the blood covering their faces they looked… innocent. They both bowed as one said “apologies my lord.” Izel raised his eyebrow at such a greeting even so he held his silence.

The one that spoke looked down at the dead cultist “we thought you might wanted to join in, but we.. got carried away…” he bought his eyes to the blood trailing on the floor his hearts twisted as a disturbing thought entered his mind. He briskly walked away from the scene without uttering a word. Izel tried to think of anything to push away what he just thought. Yet it kept coming back, the thought that he missed an opportunity to the join in. He shook his head while biting his lip. “What has he done to me!?” he almost shouted.

He gripped the infernal collar in annoyance it felt unnatural around his neck, after a moment he felt a sting on his neck as an unknown concoction entered his system. He could feel it passing through his body caressing his nerves and mind. He sagged to the side of the wall panting his vision was going blurry. Izel blinked rapidly trying to clear his vision as always he tries to reach for the collar in reaction, to pull it off. His hand would edge close to it but would slowly edge back he grit his teeth in annoyance. A part of him is enjoying this, whatever the lord of this warband has done he is enjoying whatever the collar is doing to him.

He staggered onwards he soon came to the cross paths. Like before another scream came towards him another cultist of his warband was running for his life. He tripped forward and fell to the ground. Izel raised his eyebrow “what’s this?” upon him speaking the cultist looked up at him in recognition he shouted “m-my l-lord please! Help! Pleas-” he reached his hand out. Before he could say anything else pale hands reached out of the darkness and dragged his servant screaming into the darkness. Izel stood like a stone at the cross paths, all he could hear is the screams of the cultist cascading through the corridor. “N-no! I-I am s-sorry! I won’t run again!” he then heard giggling as the cultist began screaming for his life. Groans and yelps of pleasure began reverberating through the cross path. Izel merely stood there and listened it went on for minutes until all those sounds eventually died.

He looked to the right path for a moment and decided to take the middle path into the darkness. He walked for a few seconds until he heard a crunch he looked down to see he has stepped on an arm. He bought his gaze upwards again and in the hall he saw the cultist is now in pieces, strewn about the hall. Blood and other vile fluids covered the hall but what held his gaze if he looked at each of the pieces that line the floor is that all his gear has been torn off. A strange sort of curiosity gripped him, along with a sense of excitement it was the kind of feeling he gets if he finds a new piece of knowledge. The need to understand the need to.. Izel slowly opened his mouth “I wi-” he instantly clenched it shut not daring to speak aloud his thoughts. He wondered what his legion would think of him saying such a thing. Thinking such a thing. He turned and walked away the thought pounding through his mind. I wish I could of seen it… he returned to the cross paths and made his way to his actual destination.

Izel tried to steady his breathing, the scene is causing his heart rate to rise rapidly but as he got to the hall leading to the double doors the scene before him caused his mouth to hang. He saw forms on the floor coupling and slashing at one another. Some were human, others were not and some forms have lost all boundary. As he took the first step forward they slowly parted for him they whispered. “He is visiting the lord! The door will open!” Izel tried not to stare at them but his eyes remained fixated on what is happening around him. As he got to the double doors he looked back for a moment, just for a few seconds before pushing the door open. As the wind came from the doors all those coupling on the floor reached up trying to breathe in the the air. Some began crying out for the lord of sin, others begged to see Adelram they begged to see his visage.

He tried best to ignore it as he finally entered the chambers of the one who has collared him. Closing the door behind him he could hear them scratching and yelling at the door. He looked over to the lord of sin Adelram humming, standing casually over strange flowers. He held a watering can that poured a thick red liquid upon the flowers. As the droplets hit them, it dissipates rapidly like the flower is greedily drinking it up.

Izel stared at the flowers until he heard someone eating he looked to the right to see a white-furred beast sitting in front of a sliver pantry devouring glistening meat. The beast chewed loudly “this is so good!” he shouted. He watched Adelram turn slightly to him frowning. He spoke calmly “Salvador don’t chew so loudly we have a guest.” The beast known as Salvador frown his bovine ears lowered slightly. “S-sorry.” Salvador began chewing slowly as he apologised.

Izel took a step forward as he reached the middle of the chamber the lord of sin gave him a gentle smile “so you made your way here. What is it?” Izel shook his head wondering why he left his room. He told himself he could not believe one such as him met a god and diving into hell itself for a mortal. Adelram stared at him waiting for his answer he sighed after a moment placing the watering can on the ground. “Perhaps I should strike up the conversation then? How are you finding the ship?”

As his tormentor spoke it jolted him to attention he turned his head slightly to the door. “Are you aware of what’s going on outside?” he watched Adelram beam at what he just said. “Of course. It’s so nice to see how happy the mortal crew is now...It’s like night and day.” Izel shook his head in disbelief “you call that happy?” Adelram gave a small frown it was not in anger but more or less confusion. “What else would you call it? They get to do what they want. They get to kill and experience boundless excess in whatever way they choose. How could they not be happy?” he clenched his hands hearing this, there is no reason in what is going on. It’s pure entropy and glorification of the flesh. The lord of sin took a few steps towards him. “Are you not happy here Izel?” staring at his face he seemed genuinely hurt a stark contrast compared to when he faced him on the ship. For some reason he could not look at him he turned his head away slightly. “How could I be happy after what you have done to me?” he pointed at Adelram and looked into his black eyes. “You tore apart my work! Destroyed everything I built!” Izel gestured to himself. “You reduced me to this!?” The lord of sin shook his head “but do you hate me for it brother?”

Izel flinched he ground his teeth slightly he searched his hearts for a hint of anger, he could find a little frustration but not hate which confused him. If this was anyone else he would kill them in rage. Obliterate them atom by atom but for some reason looking at him he could not muster hatred. He took a step back “what are you?” Adelram took one step forward. “Your brother that is what I am Izel...” Izel took another step back shaking his head. “You are my tormentor! I-I can’t… you are not...” the lord of sin smiled as he stepped forward “but you agreed. Don’t you remember? After Arash told you of your exile? I saw your hurt...your loss… your pain… I saw when you were cast aside despite your intentions?” for some reason he remembered that. He remembered Adelram offering his hand and he took it. Before he grasped that hand in that single moment he felt loss, he felt like a wandering soul adrift in darkness.

Now he is in front of him again offering his hand. “Tell me what you need for you to be happy here Izel.” He looked at the hand and then up to Adelram. He had an idea if he is truly “honest” and cares for his happiness he would not refuse. Izel asked “let me see the inside of your mind.” Adelram cocked his head to the side slightly. “Very well. That’s if you can handle it.” Izel raised his eyebrow “if I can handle it?” Adelram inclined his head to him. “Indeed. There is only one other person who has done it and he was bedridden for several weeks.”

Izel scoffed, he has seen the minds of many champions of chaos and gazed into the eye of the warp itself. He also still does not believe he has seen a god in the flesh. Izel steadied his breathing he should be at least be able to do something as basic as entering someone’s mind. Especially if there are no defenses. He edged closer to the lord of sin “don’t place any defenses. I will know if you do.” Adelram gave him a gentle smile “I won’t. Trust me.”

Hearing that for some reason did not ease him but even so he reached and grasped his hand. He closed his eyes to focus he could see that there are no defenses in place. A thought crossed his mind that he has the potential to… “kill him.” he thought. Izel relaxed himself then flicked his eyes open as he launched himself into the mind of the lord of sin.

As he dove he slowly landed in a white landscape, he looked around and the only thing that caught his vision is a large bench. He strode towards it, he stopped in front of the bench wondering the significance of it. He reached for it and touched it as his hand touched the wood he felt a well of emotions. From Regret, sadness, anxiety… and the last thing he felt it strangely bought a small tear to his eye. “Happiness…” he said quietly to himself.

He almost got lost in it until the floor underneath his feet crumbled he began tumbling into darkness. Izel looked around frantically trying to find a way out he thought to eject himself from Adelram’s mind but no matter how hard he tried he was stuck for some reason. As he fell out of the darkness long swords began sliding out. The blades shot out phasing right through his armour, the blades began caressing his skin. Izel yelped in pain, as more blades moved to attack him he released a great howl of anguish.

The blades were cutting his skin slowly, making small incisions or even phasing to his organs. The blades pricked his hearts all the emotions he felt when he watched the emperor’s children cultists on the ship came crashing back. Feeling such a thing again he tried to struggle, he tried to summon his psychic power but instead he would get a wave of pleasure-pain. The pain mixed with the pleasure he could not take it, he begged whoever is doing this to stop. He did not care who he wanted it to end.

A voice then came through his mind, the sound thrummed through his whole body causing what he is feeling now to increase ten-fold. Such a sensation almost made him lose conscious as the voice said “very well.” Izel crashed on the ground with a thud. He gasped as the pain, along with the pleasure subsided. What hurt him even more that now it was gone… he missed it.

He staggered to his feet while shaking from the experience, he looked around the now dark landscape. He found it hard centering his thoughts his mind too addled by what he felt before he hissed in annoyance. “Those blades must of been defences!” he knew the lord of sin was a liar. This is another game to get him to submit as his mind tried to formulate some way to escape he heard the cracking of glass. He looked around wondering what it was, the cracking became louder and louder like something or someone is coming towards him.

Izel centred his vision again he tried to stand straight. “Adelram must be playing with me… I will-” before he could finish his sentence a large clawed hand pierced the darkness. The sound of cracking glass began thundering through his mind. Mixed with the sound was a strange song sang in the voice of both a male and female. Staring at this clawed hand he knew this thing to be his oblivion his end. The destruction of all that is decent was edging closer towards him but he yearned for it. He wanted it.

He found himself reaching out his hands as a large grin played across his face. The claw then snapped around his whole frame. He began breathing rapidly as a small sense of euphoria gripped him. It then began rapidly increasing, a cascading moan entered his mind, he soon found also his own voice mixing with it. He could feel his nerves burning like hot fire, his ear drums hemorrhaging and he cried tears of joy. The tears stang his eyes as they trailed down his face. For some reason he did not want whatever is happening to stop, whatever is going on he wants it to be never ending. His hearts swelled in elation. After several seconds of experiencing this sensation a strange feeling gripped his gut he could feel it being filled with something. Izel felt his gut stretching out to it’s limit. He gagged as he coughed blood. It felt like he was dying, whoever who is holding him is killing him slowly it felt like this moment can be drawn out for an age. Izel shouted at the top of his voice “draw it out! Please don-”

His vision was going dark the sensation was vanishing his hearts were beating rapidly wondering why did it stop. “Please wait I don’t want it to….” the word trailed of his lips as the pleasure-pain ebbed away to nothing and that horrified him as his vision finally turned dark.

Adelram looked at his brother gasping and groaning, he smiled. “Maybe he will be fine? Perhaps he learned something?” he could feel him leaving his mind he guessed the dark prince was done and had his fill. The day he had to leave the palace was the saddest day in his life but he understood why he had to leave for he had to spread what he feels to others. The galaxy needs to understand the joy and happiness the dark prince brings in wonderful entropy. He relaxed his hand as Izel staggered back gasping for breath. He quickly tore of his helmet revealing a face that is at the height of rapture.

Bloody tears rolled down his now void-like eyes, his lips were flaked with blood and his ears bled. He dropped his helmet to the floor before keeling over and vomiting pink ichor all over his chamber floor. He watched his brother voiding his bowels for minutes before gasping, letting a out a final groan before collapsing on the pink fluid that now lined the floor. Adelram watched Izel twitch on the ground. He then looked back to Salvador who is still chewing slowly as he said “is he okay?” he gave Salvador a smile in return. “He is fine.”


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/19 01:07:31


Post by: shinros


I had to consult the Lucius novel to see how far I could go in this chapter. I wanted to explore the changes to the ship a bit more. I hope it was not too much for people. D: Just let me know if it is.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/19 12:32:09


Post by: shinros


Chapter 29

Staring at Izel on the operating table he wondered how long it would take for him to wake up, it’s been a few days at most. He looked up to Adelram who is smiling ear to ear. “I did warn him.” Asriel bought his eyes to Izel he guessed that his arrogance got the best of him and he got more than he bargained for. “I recall asking the same thing a few years ago. With me you were stricken with worry.” His lord shook his head. “You are still human you can’t forget that.” he then folded his arms. “Also it’s clear enough he got the idea to see the inside of my head from you?” Asriel smiled. “Of course, the thought that he does not want to be here needs to be stripped away. Plus you now have an Astartes who is a psyker to talk with.” Adelram’s brow twitched slightly as he said that. He then stroked his chin. “I never thought of it that way before…” Asriel sighed. “You sometimes think too much about others than yourself. You can be selfish sometimes, there is nothing wrong with that.” his master frowned at his words. “Jedrick was selfish and he walked straight into his death.” Asriel smirked slightly. “You are still sore about that? I am surprised you still feel anything for him.”

His lord relaxed his eyes somewhat it looked like he was staring into the distance. “Why do I still care about him?” Asriel cocked his head slightly he could hear the clear confusion in his voice. He did not want to upset Adelram so he diverted the subject. “So when are we going to start spreading entropy to the galaxy?” His words broke his lord out of his stupor he smiled. “Soon actually. I am currently picking out a planet. I think I have one in mind.” Asriel nodded “right I hope it’s not too long I think everyone is burning through those we captured.”

His lord was about to say something but a grunt from Izel caused the words to die on his lips. Asriel bought his eyes to the Astartes shifting and mumbling on the operating table. His eyes flicked open, what surprised Asriel is that Izel’s eyes are now like his. The sorcerer slowly sat upright he looked upon them and he merely gave a large frown. “Why...do I feel so empty?” he buried his face into his hands. “I can’t think...feel…”

Asriel tapped his leg “you will get used to it. You will feel better once you get into battle.” Adelram took a step forward to Izel. “do you want me to up the dosage on your collar?” Izel slowly raised his head from his hands. He then pulled on the collar slightly. “yes.. I don’t feel anything.” Asriel watched his lord smile, he then went to work on the collar a small compartment on the side of it opened. Adelram then picked out a small metal canister from his pouch. “I came prepared just in case.” he removed the old canister and inserted the new one. As he closed the compartment on the collar, Izel seized up. “What’s wrong with him?” asked Asriel.

His lord took a step back. “It’s to aid in dealing with his state due to my gift. Plus it helps with the withdrawal” Izel then hopped off the operating table without word. Asriel raised his eyebrow at him. “Are you well Izel?” in silence he watched him walk over to the side table to pick up his helmet, he then placed it on his head. “I am going to my room.” the sorcerer left the room without another word..

Asriel looked up to Adelram. “I assume this is what happened the first time?” Adelram chuckled “our new addition is quite an interesting fellow isn't he?” he turned his head to the door wondering what on earth the sorcerer is doing. “Perhaps, I am quite eager to actually see his sorcery in battle.” his lord began walking towards the door while holding a grin. “That time may soon come. Before we get to the planet of my choosing I do think you should go and visit Isabella… perhaps question her for how she wants her appearance to be changed?” Asriel crossed his arms. “I can do that but may I ask why?”

Adelram turned his head slightly to him and tapped his nose with his finger. “It’s a surprise I do recommend you get to it for the sake of the raid.” His master then left the room, Asriel scratched his head wondering why his lord asked him to do such a thing.

She sat at the table by herself drinking some wine until she heard a knock on her door. Sighing she got up from the table and walked over to the door as it opened the person before her bought a smile to her lips. “Asriel? Why are you here?” she stepped aside for him to enter he looked around her room until he became fixated on her wall. He turned his head slightly to her. “Who is that Isabella?” Isabella smiled and gazed at the wall, the dead form of the one who tricked her is chained upon it. His carcass displaying several knife wounds. “I just had a talk with someone I knew in the past.”

She gestured to the table. “I assume you want to talk about something?” Asriel nodded he made his way to the table and sat down. Isabella sat across from as she poured him a glass of wine. Asriel sipped the glass as he said “Adelram asked me to change your appearance.” Isabella raised her eyebrow “may I ask why?” he shrugged “I guess it has to do with the planet we will be attacking. So how do you wish to look?” she frowned hearing that she did not trust anyone to change her appearance not even Asriel. “Will this change be temporary?” he gave a curt nod. “I can easily reverse it back once it’s done.” she sipped some of wine hearing that confirmation at least it eased her somewhat. “Fine, I wish to be a blonde. Change my eyes to… green. Yes green and shorten my nose slightly.” she tapped her lips slightly “also.. Hmm.. make my lips slightly larger.” Asriel rolled his eyes “is that it?” she gave Asriel a small smile. “Yes that’s it.”

Sighing he rose from the table and walked to her back he lifted her hair slightly. She watched thread by thread her hair changing colour until it held a wonderful blonde sheen. Asriel then moved his hands to her eyelids it tingled for a moment before he then moved to her nose and then her lips. He slowly removed his hands. “Done, now we just have to wait let’s hope this raid does not end up like Athor.” Isabella turned her head back slightly “are you leaving? So soon?” Asriel scratched the back of his head “well if it is a raid Adelram and I have much more to talk about. If we survive I will come visit as a victory celebration.” Isabella grinned “is that a promise?” he sighed heavily at her words. “Fine it’s a promise. Now I got things to do.” Asriel walked back to his seat and backed the contents of his wine glass. He nodded and made his way out of the room, before leaving he swiped a sealed bottle off the table.

Once left alone she rested her hand on her fist thinking of what sort of environment her lord will place her in. The fact that he had her appearance changed slightly is what is holding her attention she wondered if whatever planet he is choosing there might be an old foe or enemy there? She sighed and stretched slightly, she then took a sip from her glass.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/20 13:55:02


Post by: shinros


Part 2 Epilogue
Stepping onto the planet from the gunship he wondered what sort of heresy hides behind the cracks of this society. No matter how bright the surface it always casts the deepest shadow and he has been given the power and authority to end it. Looking around he found many nobles landing in the innermost ring of the city, ring one. The planet Dolwine is actively looking for investment since they are recovering from a rebellion in the past and since there are a large amount of empty mansions there are many in the galaxy who wish to buy up such property.

He understands the necessity of such an action but the issue is that many can slip through the cracks and bring heresy with them. He looked over to his acolytes “are you all ready to work? I have bought us a place under false names. This time we will move through the shadows to avoid detection.” The large priest Fahim stroked his beard. “I can see why. Considering how the authorities blocked and hampered us in their own ways I have to say I prefer working like this to bring the emperor’s justice.” He had to agree with Fahim’s assessment it was odd not walking around in power armour, he had it delivered to the mansion just in case but he does not want to raise eyebrows on arrival. Belaris buttoned up his leather jacket mixed with carapace armour. “Micheal do you sense anything?” the psyker shook his head. “Not at the moment as with the great enemy they hide their tracks well.” Larissa began looking around “I will remain on alert for anything. I don’t see anything out of the ordinary though.” He could not help but smile slightly at how on point all of them are.

He looked around the port of the inner ring, workers are off-loading luggage of the various nobles arriving to the planet. The docking area itself is pristine to his surprise, there is no grease on the ground or litter and even the workers look well kept. The main question is the state of the other rings. The city of this planet is cut up into rings four to be exact the higher the number the poorer the living standings of the ring. Since they are in the middle the highest quality of life that one can obtain is located in the innermost circle.

He bought his eyes to one gun ship that was landing, for some reason he held his gaze upon it as the ramp lowered he spotted a woman with blonde hair stepping off she wore a white dress that bore stitched in pink flowers. Her attendants held her luggage as she walked off the ramp. What held his eyes upon the woman was her beauty. She looked almost mystifying, several workers even stopped what they were doing to stare. Larissa came forward folding her arms. “Well she is going to be popular I take it. Looks innocent enough.” He narrowed his eyes at the scion. “What have I said about innocence?” Larissa scratched her head mumbling “there is no such thing only degrees of guilt…” he nodded at her answer. “Right let us move to our new place. Let us hope the surface of this planet remains bright..” He gestured to his acolytes to get moving. Even if he hopes that he finds no heresy on this planet due to his long years in service to the god-emperor he knows better. Darkness is forever a shroud that fights against humanity’s right to the stars.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/20 20:59:43


Post by: shinros


Chapter 30
Stepping through the portal made his skin crawl a sickly wet sound purred through his ears as he passed into an ally of a destitute town. He looked behind him in the swirling pink vortex, his companion for this task also came through she kept bugging him that she does not want to stay cooped up on the ship. Adelram allowed it but he wasn’t sure how the daemonhost will react on this mission. Seasha promised that she will behave herself. She stretched “it feels so good to be out…” Asriel pointed at her “do you remember you promise?” the daemon flexled her hand. “Why do you want me to promise again? I will behave… our master allowed me to go with you. He trusts me, why can’t you?” he sighed soon as he bought up his lord. Soon as she said that she had him beat, Adelram must of allowed her to come for a reason so he might as well make use of her talents.

He looked up to the swirling portal leading to the ship, since Izel went into Adelram’s mind he has taken a new stance to his sorcery. When he mentioned he could open a rift to the planet his master was elated since Isabella had hold of the gunship and there are no means to land in this ring of the city. The gunship also had to be heavily modified by Caius for her to even get close to the planet along with falsifying her identity. Plus the fact they had to give her a great sum of thrones for her to buy a mansion and to invest in a section of the planet, Obviously she chose military, according to a report before she made her way to her new home the head of the PDF wants to personally greet her. Soon as she makes contact with him she will begin her work.

He tapped his feet, Izel said he would see them off before they start he was about to complain until a large form walked out of the portal. The liquid of the portal clinged to his armour, it evaporated in seconds of hitting the air. The sorcerer look around “it worked. This is good.” Upon him speaking Seasha walked up to him and began trailing her nail across his breastplate. He grunted and roughly pushed her back. “I am not food daemon.” Seasha spread her arms out “but all mortals are food to me sorcerer. The only reason I can’t taste my master because of pacts but you…” Asriel held her shoulder “do I need to send you home before we even start?” She pouted “just one…” he squeezed her shoulder. “No.” he said flatly.

The neverborn eventually relented and turned away, Asriel moved his hand away from the daemon and looked up to Izel. “It seems the test has been completed.” Izel nodded the charm on his collar dangling with the motion. “Our lord will be pleased with this news. I will inform the lord of sin that you are well.” Asriel smiled at him. “Look at you being so respectful now. So do you feel better with your sorcery?” He watched him flick his hand a small surge of power erupted from it. His hand is still shaky but to Asriel it seems he has learned to accept the sensation that comes whenever he summons his power. “Experimenting has been… interesting… even humans line up in my room in order for me to use them. I have been mainly using slaves though.” He tapped the chestplate of the sorcerer, a part of Asriel is happy he has now accepted his place among them. “Well we have to get to work. If all goes well you will have the chance to experiment on a far greater amount of people.” Izel turned away chuckling. “I can’t wait…” as he stepped into the portal it collapsed upon itself the pink liquid splattering across the ground. The liquid evaporated leaving no trace of its presence.

He looked over to his partner who is yawning in boredom, Asriel walked over to her “let’s get to work.” Seasha eyed him. “So we are beginning our play?” He raised his eyebrow in confusion. “Play? What on earth do you mean?” The daemonhost twirled. “You are going to forge a narrative for these mortals and make them dance to your song. I am quite eager to see it…” Asriel scratched the back of his head “if you want to put it that way… sure.” He found his tail swishing in amusement having such a thing would be a problem on any other planet but where they are now is the perfect environment. For in the fourth ring largely only mutants dwell here.

He gestured to Seasha “come let’s leave the alleyway.” she nodded as both of them began walking out of the hidden road. As they reached the town that encompasses the fourth ring he could see large run down housing blocks dotting the whole area, people with extra digits begging on the streets, lifts holding groups of mutants holding torches and mining picks. The most distinguishing thing here is the normal looking humans walking in three’s holding autoguns.

Going by their black clothes and bovine metallic charms, Asriel guessed they must be the gang who works in the fourth ring. He looked over to his companion. “Tell me Seasha how would you enjoy seeing a mutant rebellion?” The daemon gave him a whimsical smile in return. “It’s how you do the rebellion which will make my heart soar Asriel.” He sighed and scratched his head Seasha is a hard woman to please. He hoped this planet won’t be another repeat of Athor. He then stretched “well let’s get to work.”

Her attendants from the ship carried her luggage since leaving the hallowed halls of the canticle of sin she felt a strange hunger. Isabella guessed that is why Lord Adelram told her to take a few people with her. Each person she tested thoroughly to ensure they are reliable and can handle the pangs of withdrawal. She also caught the familiar faces staring at the docking port and it’s clear why her lord had Asriel change her appearance.

Walking the city of the inner ring she had to admit it was splendorous compared to Athor each of the houses are finely made in all manner of styles, people wore fancy dresses and all manner of strange make-up. Dolwine is a breath of fresh air she breathed in the air hungrily all the fine scents of the upper-nobility graced her nose. What distracted her were her thralls grunting while moving her luggage. She gave them one look which caused them to quiet their guttural noises.

Making her way across the plaza she walked down the road to find her new home waiting for her. As she walked to the front gate she spotted several people in uniforms waiting for her. The one who looked far more embellished came forward and smiled at her. He had well cropped black hair along with hawkish features. His imperial PDF uniform is also well kept. As she approached she tried to look as confused as possible. “And you are?” The soldier smiled and stretched out his hand. “I am General Leon Voit head of the PDF, I just wanted to greet you before you attended to your home Lady Katrin.” She grasped his hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Leon.” the head of the PDF shook her head gently and released. He held his smile “As I said before I just wanted to meet the one who gave the armed forces a hefty donation. Many nobles who live here tend to invest in other avenues like the ore trade. I just want to let you know it’s appreciated.” Isabella gave the solder a gentle smile, she could see it’s throwing all of them off. It’s taking all their self control to stand correctly. “Think nothing of it my father was part of the hammer of the god-emperor so I thought it right to support the armed forces when I can. Who else will protect us from the darkness when push comes to shove?”

She could see all of them were clearly impressed with her answer, Leon coughed slightly “Lady Katrin I am sure you are tired from your trip here I will leave you to rest.” he gestured to the soldiers all of them began walking away. Isabella stared at Leon she can’t let this opportunity slip by. “Leon, wait moment.” The general stopped he turned his head slightly. “How about we talk further on better ways I can support the soldiers here? When you have time of course?” Leon smiled and bowed slightly. “I would be honoured Lady Katrin perhaps we can make dinner plans at some point?” She gave the best smile she could to the head of the PDF “I would love to just let me know when you are available.” Leon smiled before walking away with the soldiers.

She could see the soldiers following him whispering to each other, she could not help but feel some measure of small elation. The dominos are lining up now, she looked upon her new house. “Time to get to work..” she whispered to herself.

Martin slammed his pick into the rock his back ached, sweat creased his brow the work was painful and hard but this is the only way he finds any work. This is the only work a mutie has in the city. At least thankfully they are not purged, all the ones that bare extreme mutations live on the edge of the ring not even gangs cross that area. He wiped his brow he raised his pick and slammed it into the rock, he thought he saw a glint. A large grin creased his face as he slammed his pick one more time and then he saw it the ore. He kept picking away until a stream of it fell out.

He looked upon all the shiny rocks on the ground he called out to one of the guards. “Hey I found some!” everyone in tunnel looked at him in surprise. One of the gang members came strolling down the tunnel holding a autogun. The ones who largely control the fourth ring are known as the black bulls. The gang member brought up his torch and looked at all the ore he whistled. “Looks like one of you muties finally found something useful.” He called over several of his fellows who went to work picking up the ore. The black bull nodded. “Open your hand mutie.” Martin opened his hand, the gang member dropped a pebble in his hand. The black bulls took the rest of the ore down the tunnel towards the lift. All the other mutants began staring at him in pure jealousy he watched the eyes for certain people.

There were many times he had to fight to get back home to his sister. If he could pawn this pebble off they can at least eat for two weeks. He stuffed the pebble in his pocket beaming at the prospect of hot food over stale old bread. The black bull then looked at his watch and then up to all of them. “Right muties out of the tunnel! I better expect you here tomorrow!” Martin licked his lips soon as he gets to the top of the lift he has to make a runner.

The black bulls got everyone in single file they were shuffled down the tunnel and onto the lift. As they went up he spotted one eye staring at him. Also sharkie with his fangs snarled at him. He steadied his breathing his body hurt but he was used to this. The lift slowly went up soon as they hit the surface he broke into a run he quickly went through his head which way he should go.

Staying on the main road was dangerous since normally those who are running in the fourth ring are either in trouble with the black bulls or have a shard. Considering none of the black bulls are chasing him it’s clear enough he has a shard. He made a quick corner and ran straight into a alleyway leading to a road that is nearby to his flat. As he ran through the ally way there were people blocking the path it wasn’t mutants like him but black bulls. He raised his eyebrow in confusion. One of the gang members walked towards him. “Give up the pebble.” Martin looked down to his pocket and then up to the gang member. “B-but one of your fellows gave it to me!” he stammered.

He founds his legs shaking he can’t fight a gang member that’s a death sentence but he didn’t want to give up the shard either. “W-we need to eat..” the black bull punched him in the face. Martin fell to the ground, he felt a boot on his head. The gang member looked down at him. “Shut up mutie and give me the shard.” he tried not to cry, he can’t cry for his sisters sake. “I-I can’t! The gang has plenty of leftovers before it goes into legal hands!” the black bull spat on him. “I don’t care! W e have to spend time looking after mutie scum like you! Now I won’t ask again… give me the shard!” The gang member stepped down harder on his head.

He was about to cry until he heard a voice, “that’s not nice is it?” from above someone jumped down. A young man with dark skin and black hair. He caught something moving underneath his cloak. The black bull moved his foot away and walked up to the person butting in. Martin sat up and gulped, the gang member stood almost a head taller than the man. The black bull spoke firmly “shove of mu-” before he could finish the young man walked pass the gang member. In confusion he stared at the black bull after a few seconds blood gushed out of his neck.

He then heard clapping above him, Martin looked up to see a woman with black hair sitting on some scaffolding, she is clapping joyfully as the black bull died. At once the black bulls pulled out autoguns, in a swift motion that his eyes could barely keep up with the man who helped him pulled out a pistol and shot the remaining gang members square in the head. As they all collapsed to the ground he turned to him smiling. “You are okay?” Martin crawled away “are you mad! The-” the man shrugged “if they come I will kill them.” he looked up “did you enjoy that?”

The woman sitting on the scaffolding swaying her legs nodded while holding a devilish grin. She jumped down so gracefully it made his eyes go wide slightly both of them stared at him. He gulped. “I don’t want nothing to do with you!” the man crossed his arms and briskly walked towards him “is that the way you talk to someone who saved you?” he gulped again he still sat on his bottom shaking in fear wondering who these people were. The young man knelt down and smiled he held his shoulder. “If you need any help just ask. My name is Beleth.” he gestured to the woman “This is Seasha.” Beleth held that smile even if his cheek bares a few droplets of blood he rose and walked away without another word.

Seasha winked at him which caused him to blush slightly as she followed his rescuer. Once alone in the ally he was quickly brought to reality that he is in an alleyway with dead gang members. Martin quickly got to his feet and darted for his home. He was far more out of breath than usual that whole scene still stuck in his mind. As he got to the housing block he raced to his door and opened the door quickly. Martin almost dashed into the small flat before locking the door behind him.

Panting heavily his sister looked up at him from the table, her black hair stained with grease, her somewhat pale skin ruddy and blemished due to poor cleaning supplies and finally her mutation her sharp teeth. She got up from the chair clearly worried. “Did one eye and sharkie chase you? Considering you are out of breath you must of found something?” Martin frantically shook his head “Lucia, I just saw someone kill the black bulls…” her eyes went wide with worry. “Did anyone see you!?” he took a deep breath “no…” he slowly walked to the table and sat down. He pulled out the pebble and placed it on the table. “At least we have this. We can eat at least.” Lucia frowned “I coul-” Martin slammed the table with his fist. “No! I won’t let you! You know the stories of those who join Madam Josefine’s houses!? Never!” Lucia was almost brought to tears. “Everytime you go work I worry that you won’t come back…”

Martin placed his pick on the table he looked around their small run down apartment, full of vermin along with only having sheets to sleep on. Their mother left them on the streets he stole, even killed to ensure that they at least have a roof over their heads the mines were the best thing to happen to many mutants in the fourth ring. He did all those things and works the tunnels so Lucia would not have to degrade herself for people who will most likely kill her if she doesn’t please them. He spoke firmly “it’s fine. I work in the mines if I get lucky we can eat hot meals. Getting home is not that hard… only today was different.” His sister held his hand. “What if you don’t get lucky? What if someone decides to kill you to take that ore off you?” He looked down at the shining pebble “I would endure all manner of hardship to ensure that you don’t have to suffer. I gladly take on all the risk so you don’t have to. I won’t be like our mother. I refuse!” his sister sighed “alright, I will drop it. So do you know someone who will buy it?” Martin picked up the shining shard and smiled. “I do I will go visit big tooth tomorrow. Then we can buy actual food on the market. We might actually have hot soup for dinner Lucia!” She beamed at the prospect of having soup she smiled, watching her be happy is all he needs. Just seeing her smile keeps him going and he will do anything to keep it that way.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/21 18:22:00


Post by: shinros


Chapter 31
He yawned while sitting on the bench with his companion they have been waiting here for hours even right through the night for the black bulls to react. He gazed at his partner she is merely staring at everyone like morsels of meat. She bought her eyes to him he could see she is going to ask a question. “That young man is going to get in trouble isn't he?” Asriel picked his ear in boredom. “Most likely yes. They found the bodies and are already on the search for the culprit. Since they won’t find said culprit they will come down on the mutants in the general area like a ton of bricks.” Seasha touched his shoulder gently she purred. “Many will die…” He pushed the daemonhost back. “The more that die the better. The more that seek a better lot in life, the more that want some measure joy instead of living in this hell hole the better.” He removed his finger from his ear and flicked the debris. He relaxed on the bench staring at the mutants going on their business. A question spawned in his head. “Tell me Seasha why are the mutations that consumes us and those on the ship so different compared to the people here?” The neverborn smiled while staring at the people with him. “It lacks direction that’s it. So the gods have largely no interest. They may twist one thing out of boredom and that said mark carries on in multitude of ways when you mortals make more spawn.”

She pointed to his tail on the bench. “That is a gift shaped by the dark prince to show his love for you. So in turn you can better yourself...” He looked down to his pale tale twitching slightly. “So I can use it to kill people in more interesting ways and in turn he loves me more?” The daemon gave him a gentle smile at his words. “How else can you show her your love for him unless you use those gifts well?” he wondered if a god is truly capable of love or the type of love how humans understand it. In the end it doesn't matter he seeks to eliminate the aches and pains of hunger he feels in his gut this sensation to him tells him that the dark prince expects far more, it wants more, she expects him to feed this hunger in all manner of ways.

If doing so gets him more gifts to deal with the void in his body easier who is he to reject them? In the end going by the daemon’s words you have no choice but to accept a god's love when it comes to chaos especially if you already sold your soul to them. To refuse leads to… “spawndom…” he said quietly to himself.

Sighing he yawned again and groaned in annoyance. “Dammit they are so slow! Hurry up and start ruining people’s lives!” He got up from the bench stroking his chin. “Perhaps I need to kill mo-” before he could say anything else he spotted a group of black bulls moving into the general area of the dead black bulls. Asriel looked down to his companion and gave a toothy grin. “It seems the little play is starting…” she bought her gaze upon the gang members surging into the area. “I wonder how you will direct it from here?” He began transitioning his nails into talons “don’t worry the show will be wonderful. There will be plenty of killing to do once all the actors are in their place…” his words caused the daemonhost to return his smile, a smile of anticipation.

Isabella looked around the mansion her servants at work setting up the house to her liking, she has to be careful that it’s not… too extreme. She had a mission to complete and to prevent too many eyebrows from being raised. She looked down to her wristband, it’s similar to the one from Athor but with some improvements. For one it’s far less flashy to use and in order to use the functions she merely has to place her finger on the gem and think of which function to use. Her lord told her that he improved it with the help of Izel, she thought upon the sorcerer on the lead up to the operation they seem to be getting on well and gave the means for Asriel and the daemon to infiltrate the world.

Lowering her wrist she thought it would be a good idea to update her Lord on her current status. Isabella made her way to her room, entering her sleeping chamber she could not help but sigh. It needs far more colour, her servants only used six colours when painting her room and the bed itself can have far more elaborate sheets as well. At least she was able to smuggle several bottles of her wine from the ship. Thinking on the wine she wondered, “should I tell Asriel what’s in it?” Isabella shrugged thinking such a thing. “He will most likely not care.”

She looked at the bracelet and focused on why she came here, before making contact she obscured the windows with the veil and locked her door. Finally Isabella looked down to the bracelet and pressed her finger on it. She thought on making Contact with Lord Adelram, as that thought passed through her mind a small circular mirror that is no larger than a data pad sprang into existence. There were even no lights in the mirror appearing either for some reason such a fact displeased her. She gave a small sigh and stared at the small mirror after a few seconds waiting her lord came into view. He gave her such a smile it was hard not to keep herself from falling to her knees. “My lord I am within the mansion and I have made contact with the head of the PDF. He is eager to talk more on the matter of supporting the armed forces.” Lord Adelram’s smile turned toothy at her words. “Good no-” before he could say anything a hairy bovine face took up half the mirror. “Is that Isabella? Hello! It-” Her lord pushed Salvador’s head away shaking his head. “Salvador focus on your food. I need to talk with Isabella.” she heard a beastal whine in the background. “I could protect her! Plus I haven’t talked with her in ages!” Isabella could not help but smile at such a thought when the first Astartes came to the lower levels to hunt them Salvador sprang into action without a second thought. He did not have a weapon back then and the encounter almost cost him his life. “It’s fine Salvador listen to our lord unlike us you will have your time with him once the attack starts.” Her lord looked over to what she assumes is Salvador. “Indeed you will be at my side when the assault starts so relax dear Salvador. Eat your food while you wait for our time.” she head another beastial whine in the background along with grumbling. Her lord coughed slightly and faced her. “Now Isabella I don’t need to tell you this an opportunity to allow corruption to seep into the PDF almost all nobles on the planet invest their money in the ore trade upon buying property. At this moment with your large investment you already have the good graces of the PDF. Dolwine has the Astra Militarum on call due to the past. Acquiring the PDF will make the coming battle easier, if all goes well our ship will be brimming to the rim with slaves and other goods. Now I know your talents you will not fail me will you?” Isabella drew in all of her master’s words the fact he is relying on her so much caused her cheeks to flush slightly, her legs were shaking slowly giving way to kneel. Instead to ease her body she gave a small bow. “I understand my lord I am already thinking of way to start the PDF’s path to entropy and excess…”

Her lord inclined her head to her “good, now Asriel is already on his way to executing his own plan. A mutant rebellion, there are a great amount of people graced by the gods on the fourth ring some baring small malignancies and others swelling with the touch of the warp I at least want to make you aware of what’s going on his end.” Isabella raised her eyebrow “if I may ask how do you know what Asriel is doing?” Her master stroked his chin. “He has a companion who can report to me whatever he is doing. Also if need be she can update Asriel on any information our pact has many benefits…”

Isabella for some reason looked away “would you… ever do that to me?” she can clearly see Isira is not the same anymore. At times they pass each other the ship but now she holds the gaze of a predator. She does not have much understanding of daemons but at most she knows to be careful. Adelram suddenly spoke softly “have you ever rejected me Isabella?” hearing such a thing she bought her eyes to the mirror her heart ached as her lord said those words. “Never! I will never reject you!” he smiled at her. “Well Isira did. She did not want to be at my side anymore.” Isabella clenched her fist in rage, she ground on her teeth in annoyance. “No wonder...she deserves it…How could she!” Lord Adelram chuckled “exactly hence her current state. Now you, Salvador and Asriel? Know that I hold the three of you in my heart closely… do not fail me Isabella…” His face drifted away with the mirror, as it vanished she finally dropped to her knees trembling uncontrollably. “I-I won’t fail you my lord…” The fact she knows how much he trusts her made her heart soar and at the same time she felt her mind sharpening, honing to formulate a plan to deliver the PDF to her master.

She looked over to her luggage containing her smuggled wine a thin smile lined her lips.

He held the pebble in his pocket as he made his way to Big tooth, he tried not to make himself stand out too much just in case he encounters someone from work. Martin did the best he can to blend in the crowd but one thing that is worrying him there are a great amount of black bulls patrolling. Far more than usual, he recalled the scene yesterday, the young man named Beleth killing killing all the gang members, what caused him to worry is that when their faces met he saw joy. In his past when he used to kill he’s met people like that and those were the kinds of people you should stay clear off.

What confunded him even more is that he told him that he could ask him for help, for one he has no idea to contact him or find him. More than anything he wants nothing to do with the mad cut-throat. Martin made his way down the street sighing he just hoped the gang is just poking their noses around instead of becoming a lingering presence in the area. He bought his eyes down the road and saw Big tooth’s stall. Martin walked up to the large man, his defining feature on his angular face is a large tooth that protrudes from his lip. He gave a gruff laugh “little Martin? What are you doing here?” he frowned whenever he calls him little perhaps it’s just because he is a regular customer whenever he finds ore? He pulled out his hand showing the pebble. “I found one. Can you exchange it for some thrones?” the edge of Big Tooth’s lips perked up slightly. “This one is rather large… my, my...I am surprised you are still alive.” Martin rubbed his nose with his freehand “well I did get jumped yesterday but I got away.” he lowered his hand and smiled at the fence. “So onto business how much can I get?”

Big tooth picked the shard out of the hand, he then grasped his magnifying glass from his table and looked at the shard carefully he lowered it after a moment and nodded. “I can give you… fifty thrones.” Martin’s eyes lit up “fifty! Really!?” the large man stuffed the shard into his pocket. “Indeed! Since you are a regular customer I will give you fifty, now open your hands.” Martin opened his hands, Big tooth went into his pocket and pulled out several coins and dropped them into his hands. As the metal hit his pale skin he found himself smiling instead of eating for two weeks this should be enough to last them a month.

Once big tooth was done he clutched his hands close, he stuffed the thrones into his pocket beaming at the prospect of hot soup. He smiled at big tooth “thanks! Now I have to get home I have to head to work!” The large man rubbed his hands “if you find anything you know where to find me!” Martin nodded he turned away to make his way back home he felt the thrones jiggling in his pocket. At this moment his stomach is rumbling with the thought of actual bread and bean soup or if he is lucky at the market tomato soup. He grinned to himself the next few weeks both he and Lucia can sleep with filled stomachs.

He gave a small whistle as he walked home eager to tell his sister the good news.

He picked out the shard from his pocket and looked down to it chuckling to himself. Ore sold to the right people can get you a lot of money, he makes his living as a “fence” in other words having other mutants gather the ore for him, which enables him to sell off the ore for the correct price or perhaps even higher. The years of doing this has allowed him to buy a small and even somewhat nice apartment near the gate of the fourth ring. Compared to the proper fences that work in the third ring he is small fry but at least he lives comfortably in this hell hole. Licking his lips he said “oh little Martin how you are my best customer…” Big tooth stuffed the shard into his pocket the only problem at the moment is the black bulls. They let him work since he is a part of the cog in the machine to get all the other mutants working for pittance.

Also giving the leader of the black bulls Slava Valervich his cut helps keep him safe and prevents any mutants from getting the wrong idea. He can see that Slava is pushing the mutants to working even harder in the mines since he wants what all gangs want a seat on Madam’s Josefine’s table. All the big crime lords in the third ring own one of the eight seats. Normally the way to gain one is to earn more money than someone holding a seat or annihilate their gang. From what he understood from the whispers Slava wishes to monopolize the fourth ring and knock off the Lisira Gotchsmit owner of the eighth seat since the black bulls don’t have the numbers to take them on in a war.

All the seats above that have political, monetary and even noble support from the second and first ring, fighting such a behemoth is suicide. Big tooth looked up to the skies he spoke quietly to himself “we all have a place only the ruthless can get to the top...” after a moment he heard someone coughing. He bought his eyes down to see a young man wearing slightly plain clothing along with a black cloak. What threw him off were the eyes, the eyes bought a dark chill to his heart.

Over the young man’s shoulder he also spotted a beautiful woman that instead bought a strange warmth he wondered how she blended into the crowd without anyone staring. The man coughed again “eyes down to me please.” Big tooth grunted in annoyance another mutant who thinks he is more important than he is. Types like them tend to die young, still he kept his business face on and leveled his eyes on the customer. “So what can I do for you? Do you have shards to sell?” The customer smiled and tapped his black nail on the wooden table. “I can’t help but notice that you gave that fellow the incorrect amount of thrones? Fifty for that? A pure shard like that is worth almost five hundred or even more.” He sighed he was right he is a mutant who thinks he knows best. “Right, don’t tell me how to run my business. I run a respectable establishment that even the black bulls see use of.” he waved away the mutant. “Now shove off before I call the gang members to plant a bullet in your head.”

The young man gave him a chilling smile he gulped in reaction. “You think so loudly and I thank you for the information. The eight seats sound pretty interesting to be honest…” Big tooth’s heart began pounding a strange thought creased mind that this man might be a witch, but it can’t be all of them live on the edges. He looked at the nail tapping on the table it slowly transitioned to a talon, the sharp nail made a large hole in the table as it crashed down on the wood. He cursed to himself the person before him must also be a major mutant. “Look I don’t want any trouble. Jus-” the possible witch cut him off. “You feed off the downtrodden to fuel your excess. It’s small but somewhat impressive but you see… there is a problem. You fuel everyone’s way of life here so…” Big tooth shook his head he began sweating he found himself wiping his brow. “J-just leave!” he stammered.

The man nodded and walked away with his female companion without another word. As they vanished into the crowd he breathed out a sigh of relief he wondered if he should report him to the black bulls? He spoke trying to steady his breathing “It’s not good for business letting major mutants and a possible witch walk around…” after he spoke the sound of droplets hitting the table entered his ears. He looked up to the skies in reaction. “It’s not raining…” he bought his vision down to his table to see several droplets of blood. Staring at the blood for a moment his neck started to hurt and a stream of blood gushed onto the table. He gasped for air, the pain was agonsing he found himself falling forward crashing onto the table.

He gagged, his own warm lifeblood pressing on his check, he saw all of his work-his life draining away into darkness.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/21 18:28:08


Post by: shinros


he didn't see that coming did he?


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/22 03:19:44


Post by: lliu


 shinros wrote:
he didn't see that coming did he?


No indeed he didn’t. Too bad for him.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/25 02:04:07


Post by: shinros


Chapter 32
Whistling listening to the murmur of the crowd a sort of peace came to his mind, the hell hole of the fourth ring did not seem that bad, or perhaps it’s the fact that he might have a full stomach tonight. Martin chuckled to himself “bean soup! I can’t wait!” grinning ear to ear he found himself now briskly walking. He wanted to place the money in their savings and perhaps Lucia could go shopping but the one thing that brightened his day is that his sister would be happy.

Happiness is a rare commodity in the fourth ring and there are two ways to obtain it, working the mines and hope you get lucky or step upon others. He recalled the days when he had to kill, Martin hope he would never have to go back to it. One thing he had to keep in the back of his mind is to close his heart and mind to the suffering of others. Not to bask in the violence but only keep it to a means to an end.

Looking down to his hand he clutched it in reflex, the fleeting sensation of holding a knife to end someone will never go away. Sighing he looked upwards, black bulls are swarming his home block he prayed that at most they hang around a few days, the thought died as he saw what happened next. They lined several mutants up who were crying for their wives and daughters while the black bulls questioned them on events surrounding the alleyway.

One mutant who bore a horn cried out. “I don’t know anything! Please! Release my wife!” The black bull sighed in annoyance he kneed the mutant in the gut and shot him in the head. Sagging to the floor his wife cried a stream of tears. Watching such a scene caused his teeth to sharpen, he felt veins pulsing on the side of his eyes. Creasing his brow he said. “No… don’t get involved.” As he walked to the flats he tried to make himself small to keep out of the vision of the gang members. As he got to the steps leading into the flats the doors opened. A black bull was dragging someone by the hair, they looked up tears in their eyes. “Martin! Help me!” He saw the face of Lucia crying in pain, in that instant he narrowed his eyes, his teeth turned to fangs, his veins pulsed with fury.

Martin charged at the black bull all reasoning drifting from his mind, all he focused on is protecting his family. His fist came towards the black bull who had no time to react as his fist crashed into the face of the gang member.

His attack drew the eyes of everyone on the road, even the gang members who were lining up the mutants. Silence reigned, a deathly silence where you could only hear the nipping of vermin and the water drops of exposed pipes. The black bull crashed onto the steps forcing him to release his sister. Lucia looked down to the gang member crumpled on the steps in shock, the anger drifted. Once the haze cleared, his teeth slowly turned to normal he saw what he just did and cursed.

He called out “Luci-” several of the gang members charged at him piling on top of him. He could hear muffled screams as his sister was taken away. He roared in anger, but several of the gang were holding him down. He could hear the one that he punched getting up slowly, he then walked over to look at his face the black bull looked down at him blood trailing down his nose but what caused his heart to constrict is the anger in his eyes.

He gestured to the others “get the fool into the alley way! Now!” one by one the black bulls removed themselves from his body. They hoisted up, dragging him towards the alley way he frantically looked around for his sister he spotted her being held with the other female mutants. One of the gang members who were dragging him along smiled at him. “One of you mutants killed some of us so the boss wants to cover his losses by selling a few of you to the Madam’s houses…” Martin shook his head in horror “no...no….No!”

Entering the ally way his heart was pounding he needed to save his sister. He can’t let her be taken to that place, his train of thought was broken as the black bull he punched stood before him. He panted and pointed at him. “You got a lot of nerve mutie…” Martin looked away he did not know what to say the gravity of what he did was now falling upon him. The gang member shouted at him. “Look at me!” Slowly he faced the black bull, but instead of words a fist came hurtling into his face.

Pain erupted from his nose, the black bull shouted at him “you creatures! Should know your place!” he kept punching him again and again. Martin found it hard to breathe as pain surged across his face. But one constant was kept into his mind his sister. He can’t die here, he has to find some way out. The black bull punched him in the gut causing him to gag, he coughed heavily.

The one’s holding him kept him from falling gritting his teeth he thought of a possibility since in this situation he is likely to end up in a ditch somewhere. He shouted as loud as he can. “Beleth! Please! Help me! Please!” Yet nothing, the gang member lifted his battered head raising his eyebrow in confusion. “No one will help you mutie…” the black bull punched him in the face again. As his head was pounded all hope within his mind began crumbling slowly to dust. His head sagged downwards “someone please help….”

He looked down from the scaffolding at the scene before him smiling, his partner smiled with him. She whispered “you knew something like this was going to happen…” Asriel focused on the person he helped. “Indeed, now to set the wheels in motion.” he hoped down from the scaffolding landing softly, as he hit the ground all the gang members looked at him. The one assaulting his pawn made a gruff expression as he shouted. “Shove off! Beo-” he threw a knife from his belt silencing the gang member before he could finish.

At once without saying a word the black bulls dropped the one he needs while drawing knives and blades. Asriel went to his belt and pulled out two knives he bound forward like predator, his blade slicing through muscle, slicing away eyes as the onslaught of violence happened he could see his pawn looking at him in awe. This is exactly what he needs he chuckled “you need to look…” as the gang members were cut down like chattel the final gang member who remained alive looked around to his fellows who were now dead.

He fell to his bottom in fear as he stammered “w-what do you want!?” Asriel walked over to the gang member who is now stricken with fear. He pulled out his auto-pistol and aimed at his head. The Black Bull was sweating bullets as he began begging for his life, his tirade caused him to look upon the broken mutant, his pale white hair dirty, his ruddy face ruined by bruises and blood. But in his eyes he saw it. The words that are passing through the meat that is held within his skull. How can I be like him? Asriel aired the mutants thoughts “you can be like me.” He barely glanced at the gang member as he shot him in the head.

Upon the gang member falling to the ground Seasha started clapping, he looked up “it wasn’t that impressive.” despite his words she smiled back at him. “I enjoy watching you kill I recall how you were so long ago... Frail, weak and frightened….” Asriel frowned as she said that for some reason he dislikes thinking on his old self. The one that was ignorant and also weak in a sense the daemonhost was correct which also at the same time annoys even more. Returning his auto-pistol to it’s holster he looked upon the mutant who is now struggling to getting up, he gasped “L-lucia….”

Watching mutant struggle, despite the emptiness that grips him he understood full well what he is feeling, the need to defend those who you care for, but if you truly want to aid them. To protect them all limits must be torn down. Walking up to the struggling individual he knelt and looked into his eyes as he tried to get up. “I will retrieve your sister for you, tell me what’s your name?” He reached over to his face, the bruising whittled away his nose smoothly moved back into place. The mutant touched his face in clear surprise. “Y-you a witch?” he stammered.

Asriel titled his head to the side slightly “does it matter? As I said I will retrieve your sister for you. Also I asked you a question.” in response the mutant shook his head he sighed like he was finally giving up. “Martin. If you are going to sav-” Asriel held his lips with two of his fingers he gazed into his yellow eyes that bore slits. “You have the eyes of a killer but that’s all you have. You are merely a clump of clay at the moment so in other words you are weak.” In reaction Martin reached to grab his hand holding his lips but no matter how much he tried he could not move his hand away. Asriel watched him struggle eventually he gave up. Smiling he continued “see Martin you still have notions of limits, a line that should not be crossed.” Asriel leaned in close. “If anyone harms those I care for I would tear out their eyes, tongues and commit unending torment upon them. If they seek to run I will chase them across the galaxy until I see them dead.” The mutant’s eyes went wide at his words he could see the worry or the thought. What have I gotten myself into? Asriel held his grin. “Indeed what have you gotten yourself into? You see Martin people like us will forever be looked down upon by those who are… “normal” so why hold back against them?” Asriel sighed “look at me rambling when I need to save your sister since you are too weak to be able to.”

He let go of Martin’s lips who is now merely looking downwards, Asriel rose and pulled out a note he dropped it in front of Martin who looked down at it in confusion. “Now, Martin hang onto that note and visit that location tomorrow your sister will be there.” He gestured to Seasha “come let’s go we have people to save.” The daemonhost rolled her eyes and jumped off the scaffolding she crossed her arms. “May I join in? Will my talents be needed?” Asriel spread his arms out “of course your talents will be needed!” at the mention of her talents her eyes lit up she grabbed his hand and began running down the alley. “They are this way! Let’s go quickly!” Asriel tried to keep his footing as his companion ran he looked back to Martin “you better hurry up and leave the alley before they check on what’s going on! See you tomorrow!” he could see Martin squeezing his note in frustration.

He smiled seeing this, the emotion that is consuming him will enable him to cross the line.

Her servants prepared the room for the dinner, Leon has accepted her invitation eager to talk further, what perplexed her is that the room was so plain, the silk curtains were a darker shade than normal and the paint of the room caused her to pout but she had to make do for now. Slowly her thralls bought in the meals laced with her wine, at least a distilled version of it. Isabella also held a bottle of distilled wine that Leon could also drink she smiled to herself. “I am sure he will enjoy it…”

Once the table was set the servant’s stood before her and bowed, as they rose one stepped forward “Lady Isabella Leon is coming soon should I wait for him at the door?” She inclined her head to her servant. “Yes, go and do that I wish to inspect the food before he comes here.” The servant bowed again before leaving the room. The others she dismissed for them to handle other trivial activities. Once alone she walked to the table and pulled up the cover and stared at the food, the steak, vegetables and the potatoes. Then trickles of the wine that gave it a pleasant scent. Once the food was inspected she carefully placed down the wine bottle in the middle of the table which will be the main source of beautiful corruption.

Satisfied she covered the food and grinned “it always starts small…” looking at the door she finally heard a knock. She prepared her face, her hair and her white dress. Isabella called out “you may come in!” The door opened she saw her servant and General Leon. Her thrall escorted the leader of the PDF in as they entered the General look clearly impressed with the colour design of the room. A part of her wondered what he sees considering by large to her the room could do with more colour.

Trying not to sigh she gave Leon a small curtsy and in return he gave a small bow as he said. “Lady Isabella I am glad you are having me for dinner. I do appreciate the time you put aside to see me.” she inclined her head back to Leon “thank you for coming please have a seat.” Leon smiled as he made his way to the dinner table, once seated Isabella gestured to dismiss the servant who gave a curt bow before leaving the room.

Once alone with the general she took a small breath and took her seat in front of him. She smiled, to her it would be a good idea to start with the food get him in the mood to talk. “So how about we eat and discuss how I can invest more into the PDF?” She watched Leon smile and remove the cover from his meal, as he gazed at the food Isabella removed hers. The general laid eyes upon the meal right way she could see the effect, he is trying hard to keep his mouth from watering, his nose also tingled trying to breathe in the aroma.

Isabella picked up her knife and fork rattling it slightly to get his attention to them, The action jolted the general to attention as he in turn reaches for his cutlery. She did not want any words to pass between them, Leon needs to eat the food first, diverting her gaze slightly in order to stave off the look that she is staring she waited for him to eat. It took only a moment for general to begin eating his food to Isabella’s surprise. He slowly cut a piece of meat and placed it into his mouth once he started chewing his cheeks flushed. Isabella gave Leon a gentle smile at the moment of his reaction “are you enjoying the meal?” he could not return her words she could see he is savouring that single piece.

Once he swallowed the piece of meat he finally spoke. “What is in this!?” Isabella gave a coy smile in return for the praise. “It’s only the best my servant’s could prepare. Try the wine, I personally brewed it. Before my mother passed brewing wine was her hobby.” At the mention of the wine the general gently picked up a bottle he poured the red deep liquid into the glass.

He lifted the glass and waved it around his nose taking in the scent, his eyes lit up as he sipped the glass. The wine hitting his lips and entering his mouth right away she saw it. The surprise on his face and after taking a sip he drained the rest of the wine. His hand shaking he placed the glass on the table staring at it in shock. He looked up to her “that was amazing…” Isabella began cutting her steak. “You can have some more if you want.” slowly she raised the piece of steak and placed it into her mouth.

As the meat entered her mouth she wanted to screw her face in disgust but held it back, the food had no flavour. No spice, texture or heavy flavour it was almost like ash in her mouth her instinct’s screamed at her to pick up her bottle and pour it all over the food. Isabella calmed herself she thought to herself I need to chew, just eat normally. Remember the mission. She chewed slowly trying to look like she is actually savouring the food soon as she was able to swallow it she pushed the meat down her throat.

Eating that single piece she spotted Leon has already refilled his glass he tried to control himself from draining it completely, Isabella could see he finally wants to talk. “Now about the investment are you sure?” Isabella picked up her wine glass and took a sip despite the watered down taste it’s better than the food lowering her glass she answered his question. “Yes I am sure, as I said you never know when darkness will come. What is a better place to send one’s money than to the god-emperor’s soldiers?”

The general clearly liked her response considering his smile but he sighed “I thank you Lady Isabella. It’s good to see a noble who is honest and true to the god-emperor.” Isabella raised her eyebrow at that information. “Are other nobles not honest and true?” Leon rubbed his neck it’s clear he is withholding something so she pressured further. “There is something dark with the nobles on this planet isn’t there?” He sighed again “yes.., many of the nobles have money in the ore trade but those who gather said ore are… unsavoury…” she stroked her chin noting that information down in her mind. “I have experience with nobles forgetting their duty. It’s unfortunate that many care more for shiny ore than what is important.” Leon inclined his head to her words. “Exactly! But…I have to be honest you might not exactly see a return…”

Isabella took another sip from her wine glass she guessed that he has appealed to other nobles already but was turned down. The noble’s of this planet blunder is her opportunity. “Do not worry I have other business off-world and supporting you would be no problem on my part. So quiet the worry within your heart general.” Her words caused a smile to tug at his lips she gestured to the drink and food. “We can talk more while we eat and perhaps we can have even more dinners to discuss further how I can help you.” Leon looked at her in almost complete awe, she needed that expression, the general making such expression means he is almost firmly in her hands. “Thank you lady Isabella, I wonder if the emperor himself sent you.” Isabella gave him a gentle smile “we are all servants of the emperor it’s up to everyone to do their piece. Now we can’t let this food get cold.” The head of the PDF gave a curt nod to her words and coutined eating displaying clear joy at each bite and sip of his wine glass.

Isabella looked at her own food and her stomach turned, but she can endure this for her plan is progressing smoothly. Enduring poor food is a small price to pay for the sake of her Lord.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/26 01:19:03


Post by: shinros


With some feedback from my mates I have learned there are a few things I could do to make conversations flow better. Instead of always describing a mannerisms all the time then a character saying something in this chapter I will attempted to something a little different to make conversations better going back and forth. Since I am sort of experimenting the chapter will be shorter today.

Chapter 33
The base looked destitute and run down like all the other buildings in the fourth ring but supposedly this is the place. Seasha sniffed out the scent of the kidnapped mutants and lead him here to this disgusting building. “So are you sure it’s here?” she turned looking clearly insulted. “You doubt me? Mortal’s are my favourite meal. Plus I can smell their taint.” “you can smell their taint?” said Asriel. “Yes I can, I can also smell their terror, pain and anguish….” he looked up to the building again his companion words rattling within his mind Asriel wondered how he should approach the assault? “Perhaps we should just walk in? It would be more interesting that way don’t you think?” Seasha gave a smile the sort of smile just before they spar. “Just walk in!?” she grasped his arm “that is such a good idea! Let’s do that!” Asriel gave the building one more look before walking up the steps and opening the doors.

Stepping into the building the light’s within the hall were dim, it bore a strange heedy smell and it looked disgusting like most buildings in the fourth ring. Walking forward right away the black bulls froze, it was like time was standing still for them. Asriel guessed they are not used to someone entering one of their bases in such a fashion. A gang member strode forwards. “You got a some nerve coming here!” his eyes drifted to his companion. “Oh? What do we have here? How about you leave this fool and come with me?” “I quite like this fool actually, in a manner of speaking he is my husband.” Asriel felt a jolt of shock within his breast which suprised him he flicked his head towards the daemonhost. “What are you thinking! I-” The black bull scowled, at the corner of his vision he watched him moving his hand to his gun. With pure instinct Asriel flicked out his blade slicing the throat of the gang member, the black bull gagged and collapsed to the ground. “Now Seasha, I am not your husband. We are...” before he could finish everyone in the hall pulled weapons out. “We are what Asriel?” said Seasha. He sighed wondering why he is having such a conversation. “How about we just focus on having fun instead?” The neverborn looked right eye into his black eyes. “Will you at least leave me the eyes as we kill?” “Yes, I will leave you the eyes.”

Asriel bought his attention to the gang members “right! Just let us kill you! It will hurt less!” the black bull’s looked at each other in confusion one shouted. “Shut up you bloody muta-” he threw his knife into the head of the gang member silence him. “Don’t be ru-” before he could say anything the gang fired their guns. He readied his cloak to wrap around both him and his companion darkness now covered them as the bullets rattled on his familiar. “So how are you going to kill them Seasha?” her voice began distorting as she spoke “they will know delight as they die….that’s all you need to know…” His eyes widened slightly hearing that Asriel guessed she was that bored with sparing if she is so eager to kill. “I see, anyway they should be reloading just about…..now.”

The bullet’s stopped as he predicted he unfurled his cape displaying the gang members reaching to reload their guns. He bound forward with Seasha, he drew a dagger and his companion turned her hands into crab claws. Reaching the first gang member Asriel slashed across his eyes blinding the gang member, he screamed dropping his weapon he then plunged his dagger into his throat as the blade entered flesh he heard a bestial hiss to his side. “You promised to leave the eyes!” He turned his head to see Seasha tearing the head off a gang member. She clutched the head in a her claw and with her other hand she plucked out the eyes and placed it into her mouth.

Seasha began chewing slowly and stared at him clearly annoyed. “Sorry about that, I will remember for the next ones…” his companion swallowed her smile returned to her face. “Good, now…” he echoed “now what?” he removed his blade from the throat of gang member allowing them to sag to the ground. Asriel just realised the black bulls should of reloaded by now. He looked over to see all of them shaking in fear one screamed “Witches! T-they are majors!” Seasha gave a shrill laugh taking the opportunity to attack as they quivered in fear. She impaled another gang member tearing out his organs, she then flipped over him and slashed the throat of another with her crab claw. “I can’t let her show me up!” Asriel charged forward he pulled a knife from his belt and threw it in the air his tail whipped out and clutched the weapon.

Like a whirlwind he danced through the hall with Seasha, cutting throats, limbs and arms. “Make sure not to hit the eyes… I have to be precise…” a gang member tried to approach him from behind with a knife his tail flicked out slashing his throat. “Be precise…” said Asriel. He pressed ownards down the hall slaughtering the gang members, he is not exactly enjoying the experience but at least Seasha seems happy. He watched her tearing off the lips of another gang member who’s head she removed, chewing on the meat she threw the heard towards the remaining black bulls in the hall. Such an act caused the gang members to break and fall back Seasha gave daemonic cry of anger. “Don’t run!? Why run from joy!? Experience the pain I am delivering upon you!”

To Asriel she seems to be getting excited, too excited her hair is slowly changing to pink and is now flowing unnaturally. “Seasha don’t stop! Don’t let them run!” she echoed his words “Don’t run, stay!” her mouth opened wide and released a great bellow of pink mist enveloping the hall it consumed the fleeing gang members who stopped in their tracks, they turned towards Seasha eyes now dilated, they drooled slightly and had large grins on their faces.

They walked forward almost like servitors, Seasha calmed herself slightly, Asriel wondered what exactly just happened. One by one they approached the daemonhost falling to their knees in front of her. He watched her caress their check with her claw before in a quick movement picked out their eyes. Their mouth moved into the shape of a scream but only sounds of pleasure erupted from their lips. “That’s it enjoy what I am doing…” “They seem to be enjoying it alright but we don’t have time. Hurry and do your business Seasha.” said Asriel. She almost scowled at him. “You said you needed my talents! Yet you use me for sparring! Plus being cooped up in your room all day!? It’s boring! After the moment we shared you don’t want to try again! Don’t you care!?” he frowned in return “No I don’t and neither do you, but since I am a nice person I will allow you to enjoy yourself this once, after this we murder them and move on.” his words caused a smile to return to her face in a flash she approached him on pecked him on the cheek. “Such a gentleman…” she turned away and returned to the entranced gang members.

The daemonhost spent time with each one, tearing off limbs, peeling away skin and always eating the eyes once she is was done the remaining gang members were reduced to clumps of meat, the mist slowly evaporated. Asriel gestured to the door “now, let’s go remember your promise.” “What promise?” Seasha said softly. “I did not promise anything…” he shook his in response head sighing heavily, looking over to the doors leading further in the only reason why he is pressed for time is to ensure Martin’s sister is in one piece. He needs her alive for his plan, Asriel walked over and grasped Seasha’s hand who was still staring at the mutilated pieces of meat he pulled her to the doors breaking her concentration “I want to stare... just for a little bit!” he scowled back “we are pressed for time Seasha let’s focus on the objective!” she gave a simple pout in return as her hair slowly changed back to normal, a part of Asriel still wondered why Adelram had him take her a long. Perhaps it would become more clear once the plan starts.


Emperor's children 40k story (Arc 3 Seekers of Virtue) @ 2018/02/27 22:16:14


Post by: shinros


Chapter 34
Sitting in the study bought a sense of ease to him the shelves stacked with crime reports major and minor. His desk holding papers detailing person’s of note within the city along with the current leader of the PDF. For most inquisitors having information normally does bring a sense of ease but such an emotion is not part of his line of work it never is. From experience being at ease makes one sloppy, it keeps one from seeing the details. So Belaris keeps himself working, watching for any anomalies in any report but overall there is nothing of note which slightly vexed him. “There must be something odd with this planet...something I am not seeing…” picking up a report he looked at the past events that have occured on Dolwine and the only thing of note is the rebellion. Details on that event is rather scarce which is rather odd, like something or someone tried to hide the details of the events.

At most going by the report it appears like a bog standard rebellion that was put down quickly by the Astra Militarum. “What was the rebellion about? Who were the main players?” Belaris spoke out loud. Thinking, he heard a knock on his door. “Come in!” the door slowly opened revealing one his acolytes Lassira. Walking in she saluted “Inquisitor.” “Larissa what is it? Is something wrong?” said Belaris. Larissa looked to the ground for a moment and then up to him. “I think I found an anomaly.” He raised his eyebrow to his acolyte in surprise “so you took initiative. Tell me what have you found?” “Inquisitor I took time to explore the rings it seems nobles have free access to all the gates leading into all the rings even the fourth. The second and third ring is “normal” but what held my interest is the fourth ring.” she walked forward and placed a piece of paper on his desk. “We knew that the fourth layer held… “mutants” as she mentioned mutants, Belaris could hear a measure of disgust in her voice as should be expected of a scion. “Now, normally they should be purged but the amount of aberrations that live in that layer is staggering. Like they are being “kept” what leads me to believe this is because the gang that does its work in the fourth ring have mutants entering lifts to a lower level. Since I looked “normal” I was not exactly allowed to get anywhere near them. So rather than overstaying my welcome I returned.” All of this information caused Belaris to stroke his chin he leveled his vision to Larissa “you were adequately disguised when you gathered this information?”

Larissa smiled “of course inquisitor, I am not a rookie and I have learned much from serving under you.” he chuckled as she said that he recalled her regiment was utterly corrupted it was with her aid that it was uncovered and dealt with and in penance offered her services to him. He picked up Larissa’s report, skimming it he could see she has gone in extreme detail. Far more detail than usual to the point he guessed that she wants to prove something. Placing the report down he sighed. “Larissa, Athor was hard on all of us, No-” she narrowed her eyes at him the facial expression caused his words to die on his lips. He shook his head in disapproval “Larissa in this line of work being zealous after failure can help in certain situations but I shall put this to you. What would of happened if you were captured? You did not tell me where you were going, you did not tell me what you were doing. If caught in such a situation at most you would end up dead with me having no idea where to find you.” His words were like a knife aiming straight for her heart, Larissa’s eyes relaxed a little. “I understand inquisitor, but...I still read the reports of what happened to Athor. All of those innocents dead and I can’t help bu-” “feel you could of done more?” he rose from his chair. “Many inquisitors feel that they can do more in the face of failure. To be more watchful, more observant and perhaps displaying more righteous fury against the heretic. But what I have learned? Being rash can be exploited, used by the great enemy. Since they look for weakness in one’s heart, it’s the moment of trying to do good and ensure the betterment and sanctity of the God-emperor’s imperium where the heretic snaps its jaw shut around us.” By the scion’s face she is taking in his words. The issue is whether she took them to heart.

He looked down to the report “I want you to go back to the fourth layer and investigate further but this time you will take Michael with you. I suspect this planet has not been doing its duty in gathering rogue psykers so Micheal being with you should not be much problem.” he looked up to his acolyte his order caused Larissa to frown. “Inquisitor, I am sure I can handle it.” “No, I do not believe you can, this planet is an unknown so you will have back up. Now you have your orders.” Belaris retorted. “Now prepare your things and set out within the hour, we will be using dead drops as means of contact some of the scions that have stuck with us will be spread out through the fourth layer they will also keep an eye out also.” Larissa slowly slauted trying to keep her face neutral. “Yes inquisitor I will set out with Michael may the god-emperor be with you.” “And to you” said Belaris.

The scion turned and left his study without another word, he hoped that Michael's presence will rein her in for it’s in failure when darkness seeks to consume you utterly.

The hall was slick with gore, the smell of blood permeated the air, he breathed in deeply. “Smells good, now we should be close to our objective.” working through the base he could hear faint crying he does not even need Seasha to guide him. The daemonhost to his surprise is also now silent upon killing the last gang member her hands returning to normal. Once the killing was done she would have something to say or get upset that they are moving too quickly, so he found her silence odd. Asriel approached her, staring at Seasha it looked like she was staring into the distance looking towards something. Suddenly she clenched her head screaming “I want to get out! I want to get out! Please!” the screams caused him to rush over and turn her towards him. “What’s the matter!?” said Asriel.

Seasha looked down for a moment then up to him. “Nothing, I just let her slip to taste freedom for a moment.” her usual smile came back. “The anguish was delicious…” he furrowed his brow in annoyance “are you that bored?” “Yes I am” Seasha spoke firmly. She then looked down to his hands grasping her arms. “Look at you so worried about me...or perhaps it’s her?” he looked down to his hands he suddenly did wonder why was he exactly worried and more than anything he was surprised that Isira still exists he thought that the daemon would have devoured her utterly by now. “I don’t know why I was worried, even so what condition is Isira actually in?” The neverborn tilted her head slightly “You want to know? Very well.” She suddenly went slack in his hands to his surprise, Asriel steadied her to keep her upright he waited for a moment before she began standing upright again. Slowly their eyes met, he did not see the gaze of a predator but a woman in desperation.

At the moment of her realising where she is Isira grasped his shirt tears began streaming down her face. “Tell him I am sorry! Please!” Asriel moved his hands away from her arms he sighed “it’s your fault you are in this situation. What do you want me to do about it?” “But you can do something about it!” she retorted “Please...Asriel tell him I am sorry...I beg you…” Isira’s begging did not move him an inch he felt nothing, no pity or remorse. “Enough Seasha, I have seen enough.” Isira’s eyes went wide with worry she clutched his face “Please! You said we are family? I remember that! Despite how much you hate me! Even all I have done! Don’t I have the right to seek forgiveness!? Please….I have nothing….I don’t want to go back…” at the mention of family he felt a flicker, a tiny ember he wasn’t sure whether to smother it completely or leave it be. “You should of minded your words Isira.” “yet he forgives those who betray him! Asriel, look at his brothers how they sought to kill him but he lets them back into his graces! Please tell him I am sorry…” Isira pressed. “I don-” her voice died as her face went slack her eyes glittered bearing the hint of the daemon that traveled with him. Gone were the tears and desperation which were now replaced by amusement and joy. “That was fun!” she pecked him in the cheek leaving a stain of blood “now let’s go.” The daemon host turned away and began walking down the hall towards their objective. Watching the whimsical creature walk he could still feel the ember there, the thought of the possibility of asking him or even daring to ask. He began walking, thinking whether he should dare such an action Isira’s situation was of her own making. Asriel shook his head in confusion “b-but she is family right?” he said to himself. Before talking with her he felt so sure, now his heart is now constricting that he should aid her in someway. That perhaps she deserves that much and if Adelram says no that will be the end of it. He smiled “yes that will be the end of it.” following the daemon host he hoped it would set him at ease saying it out loud but more than anything it made him feel strangely anxious.

Lucia sat in the room with the other women all of them huddled in the corner they all heard the screams, gunshots and the tearing of meat. Once their guards left to inspect what was going on they did not return. A woman called out “we should leave!” a mutant that bore a horn shouted in turn “We can’t! You heard the screams!” a part of her wanted to leave also but the fear the gripped her kept her in place. All the women around her started to argue whether they should leave or not. She did not have the strength to admit that there is a possible means of escape and she is more worried for her brother who was taken away by the black bulls.

A part of her hoped but deep down considering what he has done he is most likely dead. Tears began running down her face. Lucia wondered if this was divine punishment for even suggesting the houses to Martin before. Now the possibility of being sent there terrified her utterly She sniffed “I don’t want to be here...I…” she buried her face in her hands crying her eyes out.

She sniffed one more time before hearing the room door open her heart constricted in fear she looked up to the doors and she saw two people covered in blood. One had dark skin and wore a dark cloak around his shoulders and next to him was a beautiful woman with black hair. Lucia did not know what to think whether they are in league with their captors or another strange possibility, that perhaps they might be hope. A hope she did not want to admit, the male walked forward “right everyone get ready we are leaving.” everyone began looking at each other in confusion a women raised her hand “m-may I ask where?” she stammered.

Lucia bought her vision back to the man who smiled “not to the houses of course. I have come to deliver you to freedom.” the mention of freedom caused everyone to cry in sheer joy, even she found herself crying far more than before. Their rescuer walked forward and stood before her he looked down. “Your brother is awfully worried.” “Worried? You know Martin!? Please take me to him!” the young man smiled as she spoke he then offered his hand. Lucia stared at the hand covered in blood as she noticed it her rescuer bought his vision to it which caused him to frown for a moment, he then wiped his hand on his cloak and reached out again. “Come with me.” Lucia grasped his hand as he helped her up. She then thought of the black bulls and gulped “what of the black bulls?” everyone began murmuring in assent, the young man smiled at her question. “They are dead.” Lucia’s eyes almost bulged out of her head “dead!? Just.. you two?” he nodded to her “yes both us killed them, now enough chatter let us move.” He began escorting them out of the room she looked over to his partner. Her beauty captivated her a part of her wished she could look that good but since she is a mutant who would ever look at her in such a fashion? Entering the hallway Lucia covered her nose she almost vomited, the hall is slick with gore, meat and body parts. “W-what is this?” she muffled. “Try not to look” spoke her rescuer he gestured them down the hall “now keep moving, enough staring.” They quickly moved through the halls, Lucia tried her best to block out the smell of blood, along with trying to keep her gaze away from mutilated corpses.

Seeing the carnage just the two of them wrought both of them must be major mutants, what puzzled her further is why two major mutants are here in-land of the fourth ring instead of on the edges. In the end she focused on trying to get out, better a major mutant rescuing her than being sold to the houses. Making their way out of the base and into fresh air many of the women dropped to their knees weeping, Lucia also found herself crying at the prospect of freedom. Their joy of freedom was interrupted by their rescuer clapping to get their attention “now I am sure all of you are happy to get out of this situation but I recommend for all of you to find your loved ones and go into hiding for now. Don’t return home because that is the first place the black bull’s are going to look.” he then pointed at her “you will come with me. Your brother will be picking you up.” His words caused some measure of confusion but many knew of the brutality of the black bulls and went to dispersing among the crowd to reach their loved ones eventually she was left by herself.

Lucia looked around “my brother will be picking me up?” “yes your brother will be retrieving you” he repeated, her rescuer then reached out his hand “My name is Beleth.” Lucia looked at his hand and slowly took it “Lucia.” Beleth then gestured to his companion “this is Seasha. Now I think we should get moving.” He then pulled her along the road, she almost fell over due to the movement being so sudden, Beleth then broke into a jog with his companion.

As they ran she watched the blood peeling off Beleth’s and Seasha’s clothes leaving it pristine, her heart jumped at seeing such a thing. “You two are witches aren’t you?” asked Lucia “Yes indeed we are, don’t worry we know your brother he is well. We are going to our place where he is going to meet us. There we can rest and perhaps both of you can find sanctuary.” he looked back slightly “are you afraid of witches Lucia?” he whispered in almost a hushed tone. She frowned slightly there are stories of witches on the edge of the fourth ring turning people inside out or making people vomit blood. Yet she feels she could trust her rescuers and the fact they know her brother eased her somewhat. “I-I think I can trust you.” Beleth smiled back to her “then I think we will get along well.” Lucia nodded back to Beleth who’s smile wided.

As they moved through the streets a small glimmer of true hope began gripping her heart, Beleth’s hand felt warm speaking with him she felt she could trust him utterly and a strange thought crossed her mind that perhaps her life along with her brother might actually become better.