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“What is this?” Razzik asked as he thrust the data slate at Master Duggon. A hint of surprise crossed Duggon’s face before it reformed back into its hardened glare Razzik was used to.

“That is generosity Razzik, you’d be best not to forget that,” Duggon retorted. He crossed his arms.

“Generosity? You’ve given be some extra ships but not a single extra vehicle or piece of equipment? I’m running the 10th with the bare amount of supplies and no guard complements or PDF detachments. What do you know that I do not? How will extra ships help my company?” Razzik spoke quickly and let his emotion take over before he silenced himself to let his chapter master speak.

“I’ve already told you what I and the council know. I also don’t have extra equipment or guard to accompany you Razzik. Your mission is unknown to us so our limited resources were sent to where we Know they would be needed.” Duggon slowly responded. His deep voice and tone seemed to instantly wipe away Razzik’s urge to spew forth a dozen more questions.

Duggon gestured to walk down the promenade. Razzik fell into step next to him and they walked past several artful depictions of ice angels in battle. The lift that would take Razzik down to his men came into view past a fountain that was built into the statue of a legion titanicus war engine the size of a dreadnought.

“You still haven’t explained your generosity?” Razzik dared to ask his superior.

The sound of Duggon laughing startled several nearby naval officers that were sitting by the edge of the fountain.

“Razzik, before I explain, you need to know something. Your history of arguing with authority and disregarding rank did not help you get to your current position. I personally find it refreshing but you are not thought of very highly by several chapter leaders because of it.” Duggon said as he stopped before several blossoming trees that ringed the fountain. “With that in mind, you have to understand that the generosity was of none of my own doing. In fact no one on the council suggested it.”

“If the council did not, then who granted me the extra ships?” Razzik quizzically ran down the list of officers with that kind of authority.

Duggon raised an eye brow as he spoke, “to my surprise Razzik, each Captain after we gave them their orders, reviewed their assignments and then requested that several of their ships be reassigned to your fleet.” Razzik was astonished and felt ashamed for questioning Duggon the way he did.

“It was rather amazing and very unprecedented. I don’t think it was planned either. Every captain gave a different, yet logical reason for reassigning their ships to you.”

Duggon turned to look at Razzik once again. His light blue eyes commanded Razzik’s gaze. “Do not forget that your brothers, even those that don’t find you worthy, all weakened their own fleets to send you aid.” Duggon reached out and grabbed Razzik’s shoulder. “Now go to your men, be the captain I know you are meant to be. If you think you require more aid, get it from Nefas. See what he can provide for this mission that he is keeping from you.”

Razzik studied the fathomless eyes of his chapter master before he nodded his head. He took a final look around the glistening white halls of the promenade. Banners of allies and victory marks lined the walls, statues of heroes and replicas of chapter relics were staged all along the path. Razzik looked back to Duggon who responded with a fatherly smile. Razzik stood motionless before saluting to his chapter master.

“Good luck. Keep us informed as much as you can,” Duggon said before returning the salute.

A simple nod was all Razzik could do before he headed towards the lift.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Wow Ice, your story telling keeps getting better. Also great to see a more human side of the chapter master, showing that to the Captains he is more of a father than commander.

Thanks Azalle. After reading nearly every 40k novel out there I've always noticed that the chapter master characters often came across nearly the same regardless of the chapter. They were the meanest baddest marines in the chapter with a cold killer kind of attitude. I wanted mine to be a little different. Of course he would still have to be the baddest marine in the chapter, but at the same time I wanted a bit more depth. I hope he comes across that way.

The patter of rain drops had turned into a dull roar and within seconds it evolved into a down pour that was so loud his sound dampening systems kicked in. Mortifex walked in blissful silence. He felt the weight of the water crashing down onto his massive shoulders. He watched the puddles deepen past his knees as the moist ground enveloped his armored legs, but Mortifex forged on.

The ravine was to his left and the amount of debris had increased. In between the canopy he could catch glimpses of the spire that was still miles away. The shattered tower had toppled centuries ago but its remains would forever litter this jungle. The vast pieces of metals and plastics created small clearings that Mortifex would circle but in this down pour he had chosen the quicker path. He climbed up onto a curved piece of suspension road that was lying at a slight angle. He appreciated the sturdy ground, despite its angle down to his right.

As quickly as the rain poured, it stopped. Light streamed down through the canopy and the sound dampening system turned off. Mortifex cursed himself as the sound of engines hummed nearby. He was already half way across the suspension road piece when the rain stopped. He quickly ran the last few meters and leapt into the foliage once again.

He kept himself in the thicket as he tried to ascertain the location of the engines. It had to be close. It sounded as if it was behind the nearest tree. Mortifex kept still as the dual engine vessel hovered around the tree directly above him.

“Sergeant, we’ve commandeered a vessel,” the voice of Xerin stated.

Mortifex muttered complaints to himself. He stepped out of his cover to look at the floating platform. It was damaged and bent. Two of its three engines were still functioning. Micus sat at the front of the ship, his head was shrouded by his hood. Xerin stood near the controls. He moved the vessel over the damaged road piece and lowered it. Mortifex quickly jumped onto the road and climbed aboard.

Xerin didn’t waste any time hovering back into the canopy. He carefully increased its speed. Xerin wove through the canopy but didn’t move faster then needed. He wasn’t Mortifex’s first choice as pilot but he was keeping the vehicle headed in the right direction.

“We were running behind sir,” Xerin added. “I thought this may prove useful.”

“Have you seen any more spotters?” Mortifex asked, still unsure of Xerins logic.

“No sir, we haven’t seen any since we were separated,” Xerin began.

Mortifex truly hoped that was the case. Their newly acquired ship would greatly expedite their trip but it would make it very hard to hide if they did come across a spotter. He didn’t say anything but deep down he felt like they were going to get caught at any moment, then again he always thought this mission would fail.

Oooh, mortifax needs to book it.

Is it sad that in my head I pictured the Skiff from Starwars as their transport?


I do want to hear more about these three marines btw

“Do you often wander around your ships Gissvin?” The metal armed woman asked.

Inushi pondered the meaning of Gissvin before he thought about the question, “typically no.”

She harrumphed before leaning back and looking at the gathered men and women. Inushi was sitting across from her. A crate full of explosives sat between them. Four drinks were dripping with condensation onto the top of the plastic box.

“You sure Jaska didn’t inadvertently send you?” she asked again.

For unknown reason she seemed very skeptical of Jaska and it intrigued Inushi. “Why would he send me to spy on you?”

A grin crossed her perfect face. She casually adjusted some purple hair that was dangling in her face. “I would imagine to check in on his supplies.”

“His supplies?” Inushi asked with surprise.

She waived her hand and looked around the room. “He becomes quite attached to his things, especially in between fights. I think it’s his way to cope with the boredom of transit.”

“All of this is his?”

“Technically no, it belongs to the Imperium, or the Inquisition or Nefas, depending on how you want to look at it, but he collects it all and on rare occasions he gathers some of it on one ship.” She stood up and walked around the room. She touched several of the crates gingerly before turning back to Inushi.

“He is truly gifted at acquiring what is needed but he has trouble parting with it when it comes time to use it. She looked off into the distance for a moment before speaking again, “do you know where we’re going next?”

“No, I don’t even know what we are doing. Nefas tells me nothing,” he responded as he thought about how lost he felt without the direction of his superiors.

She contemplated his words as she walked over to a crate. She easily lifted the large box. She carried it over and dropped it onto the floor. “They don’t tell us anything until necessary but of all the boxes they’re hiding in here with us, this one gives us the best idea,” she placed one black boot on the lid and leaned forward. “What ever it is Gissvin, its going to be quick and dirty.”

Nods of agreement and contemplative looks crossed the faces of many of the others. Inushi leaned forward to remove the lid. Inside were Imperial uniforms of dark blue and green trim. A thin man with a curled mustache reached in to grab the top uniform. The jacket unfolded and was twice as wide as he was.

“This was must be yours,” he tossed it to the large dark skinned man. He caught it and slid it on, it was a perfect fit.

The dark skinned man looked around at the room, “do you think we’ll rendezvous with Mithril and Onyx?”

A white haired woman with pale skin nodded as she answered, “what would he need the entire task force for?”

“Do you remember what happened last time the entire Clishmaclaver got together?” the mustached man asked.

“I earned my pay on that trip,” one of the medics added with several chuckles.

“None of us made it out unscathed,” the dark skinned man added.

“Not all of us made it out,” the metal armed woman added.

The scene fell silent as Inushi saw the familiar looks of distant memories cross their faces.

A small muscular man spoke for the first time, “Aye Widow, not everyone escaped but we won didn’t we? We saved the planet, as painful as that mission had been. Ne’er forget that lads.” His accent was thick and carried a lot of weight.

Inushi watched with curiosity. He wanted to ask more but got the impression it was still a wound in their past still waiting to be healed.

Chapter 3

The Ice Angel fleet split apart like shattered glass. Groups of ships slid at odd angles and departed towards their assigned jump points. The Herald of Sanguinius casually sank below Razzik’s view port. Farewells and honor oaths had been exchanged between captains. Razzik was blessed with several brotherly comments from Muttabriqu and Shar-Vashu but to his surprise not a single council member sent him a message before the Herald began its’ descent. Within the day the 10th company and its assigned support fleet would be alone with the Benevolent Aberration. Even the martian repair ships had already left to attend other vessels closer to the distant Iron Torch.

Razzik looked at the scroll one of his servitors had produced. It listed the tally of vessels and shuttles that had visited and departed the Benevolent Aberration. At the very bottom was a peculiar vessel, the Emperor’s Coinpurse.

Nefas was on his way to finally elaborate on what their mission was. Razzik wanted to feel relieved to be in motion once again but he paced his quarters with a sense of apprehension. He was on the cusp of something much greater then he felt prepared for.

The shuttle would be several hours before arriving, Razzik set down the scroll to ponder one his first commands. Who should accompany him to the meeting with Nefas? He could bring all of his officers but decided that would possibly limit the amount of information Nefas would share. He thought about bringing Voxxik, the psyker, or Gonatzu his chaplain. He reviewed his staff in his head before a promising thought came to mind, the one person who already had dealings with Nefas, Techmarine Philosir.

“Message,” Razzik clearly announced. A servitor on a single rubber wheel rolled quietly forward. Razzik wrote two messages. One with Philosir’s name on it, the other with Gonatzu’s name on it, Razzik wanted everyone else gathered and ready once the mission was set. It did feel good to finally be giving commands. He handed the two slips to the servitor. Pincers grabbed the messages and tucked them away before the wheeled servitor rolled out the door into the hall.

After a moment of contemplation Razzik went back to his view port. Many of the Ice Angel vessels were already becoming only small specs of light in the distance but the support fleet was repositioning itself around the Shattered Peace. One in particular caught his eye, the Alabaster Reflection.

The black vessel was painted like every other Ice Angel vessel except for the bright white iconography that ordained the vessel. The small transport was heavily armored for its size. It contained minimal weaponry but a powerful drive system. It was perfectly designed for its simple task. When the time arrived, it needed to drop its 34 pieces of cargo to wherever Razzik deemed necessary.

The lopsided pink and yellow ship stood in stark contrast to the gray scale colors of the hanger. Nefas exited the rear ramp while a pair of guardsmen began to unload crates onto the deck. Ice Angel serfs waited for commands to assist.

Razzik waited next to Philosir. Razzik could hear the tech marines’ myriad of optical units whirring and zooming in on the crates. Nefas was striding towards them in his power armor. It was black as ash with a red aquila across its chest. His right arm was also painted red. Nefas did not wear his helm and looked as emaciated as ever. It was disturbing to see a marine look so ill.

“What did he bring for us brother tech marine?” Razzik asked while he waited for Nefas to reach them.

The monotone voice of Philosir responded quietly, “weapons, and powerful ones. I’d like to examine them before they see any use.”

“Of course,” Razzik responded.

The pair waited in silence as Nefas arrived before them. Philosir bowed with respect while Razzik gave a welcoming nod.

“Welcome to the Shattered Peace, Inquisitor,” Razzik said with a small amount of disgust and a smile.

Nefas raised an eye brow, “I hope your council meetings were enjoyable?” He seemed annoyed by the delay it had caused him while Razzik and the chapter had gathered.

“I assume you did not enjoy your short hiatus while we planned?” Razzik asked while motioning towards the door. Philosir stepped out of the way to let them through. Nefas didn’t move.

“Enough Razzik, I did not come here for another one of your lovely dinners,” he hissed. “It is time for your end of our deal.” Nefas produced a scroll case with a wax inquisitorial seal on it. “Take one of your ships and your company to the Mortimon system. On Mortimon Secondus you will meet up with Sergeant Mortifex. He has been there for several years gathering vital information. He will then advise you on the next part of your mission. The rest of your fleet and one of your squads will be coming with me.”

Razzik narrowed his eyes. Nefas continued, “Do not make your presence known when you get there. Secrecy is one of our most potent weapons. I brought with me the means and encryptions you will need to reach my agents.”

Philosir reached out and took the sealed scroll. Razzik tried not to let the anger cloud his judgment or affect his words but the quickness at which Nefas pissed him off was astounding. After a deep breath Razzik gathered himself, “I’ve gathered my officers if you would like to say anything to them.”

“Not necessary, nor do I have time. Pick a squad and have the sergeant report to me at once. Make sure your fleet knows that they are to listen to every command I give them. We leave within the day.” Nefas paused and look at the two marines, “so do you.”

Razzik didn’t like this at all. The strength of his fleet, the gifts from his fellow captains was already being stripped from him. Nefas continued to look between the two marines. Philosir remained silent, holding the wax sealed scroll. Razzik focused on who to send and which ship to take.

The feeling of hopelessness crept back into Razzik. He battered it aside; he was still the captain of his company. He was determined to see his men through whatever Nefas threw at them. “Sergeant Shar-Takazz will report to you at once along with every ships commander. We will depart immediately.”

“Excellent,” Nefas hissed, “we will meet again Captain Razzik.” He then spun on heels and headed back to the pink and yellow storm bird. The crates and boxes had already been moved away. The ships engines roared back to life.

Razzik didn’t stay to watch it leave. He fumed at the commands given. He now had to tell his officers of their mission along with all of his commanders. It wasn’t how he envisioned starting out his captaincy.

The jungle covered courtyard was cut back in several paths. Mortifex could see where the locals had created trails into the broken spire. He looked up at the cloud scraping remains. He wondered what had happened here and why it had been abandoned. Plenty of books had been written but after reading them all Mortifex determined that they were merely speculation. Most of the stories seemed more fiction then anything else and as Mortifex looked up at the decrepit structure he could see why the tales were written. The jungle covered mountain of metal looked like it belonged in an art piece. It looked like a terrible place heroes would go to die.

Stories of ghosts and dream visiting revenants came to mind as he examined the entrances before him. The nearest ones looked well traveled. He ruled those out.

“Okay, let’s move to the north side, it seems less traveled. We will find another way in. Once we’re on the inside we shouldn’t have to much trouble finding the statue,” Xerin nodded. Micus seemed oblivious, as usual.

They carefully descended the jungle retaining wall. The twisting trees and massive roots made the descent easy and well hidden from view. When they reached the bottom Xerin came up next to him.

“Do you think everyone will be here sergeant?” He asked.

Mortifex at first assumed they’d all be dead and he’d have to do everything alone, but then he thought about the unique squad he led. “I expect them all to be,” he sighed” There is no reason they wouldn’t be here. I can’t see how a planet full of ogryns and servitors would be able to stop a space marine, even the misfits Nefas has collected. I just hope they found what we need. I have no desire to be sulking around this jungle or this planet any longer.”

Suddenly Micus drew his sword. He wielded it at one of the nearest trees.

He growled like an animal.

“MICUS!” Mortifex yelled quietly. He cautiously approached the marine. “Not here damn it. Get a hold of yourself.” He held out his hands and tried to motion for the other marine to lower his weapon.

“You’ve been doing so great Micus, just a little longer. It’s just a tree.” Mortifex pleaded. He knew he couldn’t take out Micus especially when he was in his attack mode, he was very dangerous in these situations.

Micus looked like he was in agony. His breathe came in short bursts and his face was flush with sweat.

“Come on, it’s just a tree, please don’t hit it. We do not need to announce our presence.” Mortifex watched the marine begin to glow. His sword took on a reddish hue. Mortifex dropped his arms in disgust.

“He’s going to hit the tree isn’t he?” he asked to no one in particular.

Xerin answered any ways, “I believe he is sir.”

Mortifex nodded his head in defeat. Micus built up energy within his body and sword. With a flash of movement he thrust his sword into the trunk of the tree all the way to the hilt. Mortifex and Xerin dove for cover. The trunk of the tree then exploded outward with a thunderous detonation. Every sound in the jungle dissipated. The ten foot thick tower of wood split into countless pieces of wooden shrapnel and cut down all the nearby vegetation. The top half of the tree then tumbled off the jungle retaining wall towards the spire.

Mortifex and Xerin could do nothing but watch as it careened into several other trees. Branches shattered and creatures scattered. Within seconds the shaded vicinity they had been hiding in was revealed to all the surrounding area.

Micus held up his sword and kissed the hilt as if he had just vanquished a mighty foe.

“Damn it Micus, MOVE,” he commanded as he ran past.

The command shook him out of his reverie and he shook his head, suddenly ashamed of what he had done. The three marines ran for jungle cover to the north. Micus chanted prayers of repentance as they ran.

Wow, so much to read! loved all of it, from Razzik getting torn down by Nefas, the build up with the holding bay troops and Inushi (awesome use of their own language for marines btw) and the passage with Mortifex.

So there were quite literally sections I laughed out loud (and quite a large chortle I might add)

"the Emperors Coinpurse" best name for a ship I have ever heard, I hope there are no growths on that ship and its 'razor' clean

“He’s going to hit the tree isn't he?” My god, this brought out the biggest laugh from me, such understated comedy coming from Mortifex, followed up by the quick quip by Xerin “I believe he is sir.” These guys should take it on tour, they would have the galaxy in stitches!

Well done Ice, well done indeed, this made my Monday morning!

Thanks Knightley for commenting. I had a few days to myself, wife and kid were away at the grand parents, so I managed to get a lot of writing done. As you may have noticed I had quite a few posts over the past week. Lots of progress was made. Things are starting to move along. The humor in the last section was not necessarily intended but it is nice to see it causing such a great reaction.

What did everybody else think? Any other thoughts or concerns? We're several chapters into book 2, hit me with some more feedback.

I have to agree with knight, "He's going to hit that tree isn't he" I had to stop because I was chuckling too much. I love the way its playing out. I am a little confused about Nefas, I thought he was an agent of an Inquisitor and not an Inquisitor himself?

I like how you are starting to tie some of the extra characters into the story with Razzik being sent to meet up with them. I am looking forward to running into Jaska again, and I hope that he pops back up sooner over later. I think that over the next chapter or too you should bring all of the ongoing side stories back into play at once (have the picture fully built so to speak)

Nefas is indeed, not an Inquisitor. He is an Inquisitorial Captain. I wonder if I misspoke at some point in there. Any ways, thanks for the input Azalle. Jaska will indeed be showing himself back up here shortly.

The flashes in space were miniscule. Razzik watched them with distant curiosity. He tried to focus on the sight in order to help keep his emotions in check but the myriad of feelings clouded his thoughts. When the last of the ships departed Razzik continued to stare into the void.

A deep voice harrumphed behind him. “Warp travel is a bizarre thing. I have always wondered what it sounds like when a ship tears through reality into the immaterium.”

The monotone voice of Philosir quickly answered. “There is no sound in the vacuum of space Chaplain Gonatzu.”

“Every tear makes a sound my tech marine brother, space just prevents us from hearing it,” Gonatzu retorted.

“Enough of this useless banter, how soon can we depart?” Voxxik quickly spat.

Razzik could hear the pacing of the terminator librarian.

“AH, very soon,” the librarian said just before the air lock slid open. “Everyone is on board captain and the ship is prepared, please issue the command to began our travels.”

Slowly Razzik turned around. He gave Voxxik a look of annoyance before looking at a naval officer that was quickly walking across the floor of the stardeck. The officer did not make any eye contact as he approached. When he was near Razzik he held up a thin strip of paper while keeping his head down. Razzik calmly took it and read it.

All transports have arrived. All supplies are secured. We are at your command, honored Captain Razzik.

Razzik opened his mouth to speak when Voxxik cut him off with an exaggerated sigh, “Please do not delay this. No one wants to hear your speech.”

“Stay out of my head Voxxik! I understand you’re impatient, we all are, but we will wait here as long as I deem necessary.” Razzik snarled while pointing at the librarian.

The librarian tightened his jaw before crossing his arms and retreating to the perimeter of the room. He stood in the corner like a dark cloud.

Captain Razzik watched Voxxik for another moment before looking at the marines in the room. Standing before him was his command staff and all of his sergeants. They were all fully armored except for their helmets.

“Whether or not Voxxik wants to hear it or not I have something to say.” He said without looking at the bitter librarian. “I have a feeling we will not have the opportunity to get to know one another before this unknown mission of ours gets ugly. The Inevitables have no idea what were getting into and Inquisitorial Captain Nefas has not told me anything useful. We do have a destination and a name but that is about it.” Razzik looked around the room as he spoke. He made eye contact with each of the marines before him.

“Before the rest of the chapter departed Master Duggon told me that our mission will change the entire future of our chapter. What we do here together and how we act together,” Razzik looked back to Voxxik, their eyes met, “could change everything.”

After a long pause Razzik looked past the marines before him. The stardeck was a chamber on the exterior of the Alabaster Reflection. Three of the walls were force fields similar to those around the hangers. Clear barriers that solid matter could pass through yet still managed to keep the void of space outside.

“We head to the Mortimon System.” Razzik said with a nod to the naval officer that still stood nearby. The human quickly fled the room of super humans. “There we are meeting with a marine named Sergeant Mortifex. He works under Nefas. I am hoping he will give us a target in which we can vent some frustrations.”

Several marines nodded in appreciation of Razziks words. “Be prepared.”

Hehe, I like Voxxik, he looks to be challenging at the best of times, I wonder what he will be like when the gak hits the fan and everything starts to go badly (assuming it will, only because it should)

“Sergeant Phiniki and Jarvik, I want to see both of your units fully prepped and ready to deploy in the forward hangar in sixty minutes. Tech marines, I want everything Nefas sent us checked and rechecked before any other Ice Angel touches it. The rest of you have your typical assignments.” Razzik took a moment to look at his men. “Dismissed”

The astartes gathered themselves and left towards the three air locks. Voxxik and Gonatzu were all that remained. When the doors had shut Voxxik stepped from his dark corner. His terminator armor made him the biggest object in the room. His psychic hood was arranged over his skull like a tight cap. His hairless head seemed peculiar to Razzik, like it was smaller then normal.

He knew Voxxik was going to be difficult and just by having that thought, Razzik figured that Voxxik knew that as well. The psyker continued to glare at him.

“Do you know why the Emperor sent you to be a part of my company?” Razzik asked.

Voxxik’s response was a cocked eye brow.

“No, because it is not relevant whether we know or not. The Inevitables, however, spend their time trying to decipher what the Emperor has planned for us. I can imagine that prior knowledge of what is going to occur can often change what will occur.” Razzik walked up and stood right before Voxxik. The terminator clad psyker stared down at Razzik, intrigued.

“What did the council say to you when they sent you with me?”

Voxxik narrowed his eyes, “I would not dwell on what the council says.”

“Are you saying that because you are not part of the council or because they told you nothing in order to keep you hidden from our path?” Razzik quickly retorted. He could tell he had hit a sore spot with Voxxik.

Razzik watched the face of Voxxik as the psyker gritted his teeth, “they told me nothing, other then I would be needed.”

“I agree Voxxik. You will be needed! You will be needed on the battlefield doing what you do best. You will NOT be needed inside my head.” Razzik then thought of a long string of Shatt’el’hai swear words to gauge the psykers reaction.

“Very well Captain.” Voxxik sneered with a disgruntled harrumph before turning towards the air lock.

For several minutes Razzik and Gonatzu stood in silence. Razzik wondered what range Voxxik could read thoughts at. Then he decided it didn’t matter. He didn’t want to try in vain to hide his opinions from a brother.

“Was that too hard, brother chaplain?” He finally asked to the burly chaplain.

“No, I think the direct approach with Voxxik, will suite you both best in the long run. Besides, I don’t think you should expend any more of your thoughts on him. He may be dour, rude, and simply difficult, but there is no other psyker I’d rather have next to me when the bullets begin to fly.” Gonatzu responded. His voice seemed to sooth Razzik. He found himself more relaxed then he had been all day.

A gentle whirring came from below the floor. Metal armored panels slid over the force fields to completely block line of sight into the void. The ship was preparing to enter the warp. A servitor rolled out of one of the airlocks. The two human heads chanted a deep psalm as the tracked unit spread incense in thick clouds of green vapor. When the armored doors finally locked into place the servitor pressed a mechanicum sigil of fortification into the center beam. It then completed its perimeter check before departing back into the airlock it had arrived in.

“On second thought, perhaps instead of keeping him away until needed you should give him a vital role. That may give him something to focus on instead of brooding over what was thought or said,” Gonatzu mused will rubbing his chin.

The 10th captain pondered his chaplain’s words. “I think that is an excellent idea Gonatzu. I have just the role in mind. Our newest squads could use some special attention,” Razzik motioned for the door. The chaplain nodded his head as he strode that direction.

Razzik slid on his helm to activate a private vox line to Voxxik. “Brother Librarian, I have a task for you.”

“I’m already headed for the forward hanger Captain. I will meet you there.” Voxxik quickly responded.

A flare of agitation tingled in the back of Razzik’s thoughts, “I told you to stay out of my head Voxxik.”

“I wasn’t in yours Captain,” Razzik could hear the satisfaction in Voxxik’s voice. “Thank Gonatzu for the suggestion.”

The vox line closed. Razzik was not sure if he should be displeased or not with Voxxik’s actions, either way he was thankful for something to keep Voxxik occupied.

Hahah that crafty bugger, sure, he said to stay out of Razzik's head, nothing about the Chaplains....

Definitely starting to like this librarian.

Side random question!

I've been reading a lot of 40k and other fantasy / sci fi books. Something I've noticed more and more in the horus heresy stuff is the number of random characters in the stories that have such minute parts. For example, I'm reading Vengeful Spirit right now and there are several loyalist commanders that have maybe three small sections in them before their parts are done. I don't really feel they added much to the story, they certainly didn't have any lasting impact on the story. Then again, they do enrich the story. Does that then make their extra pages in the giant novel worth it?

What are your thoughts?

I've not read any 40k book yet (yes even the one I got at AC), but personally, i follow a rather Chekov way of thinking with literature-
If you write a character in, make use of him. Otherwise, save the space for your extant characters. Dont waste space on what is essentially pointless babble. Not to say you cant have minor characters crop up, but dont go out of the way to do so. Blend them into the story too.


Lovely work as always, though in the first line it should be "hangar". A hanger is what you store shirts on, a hangar is where planes live!

Also, the phrasing here is awkward:

"He knew Voxxik was going to be difficult and just by having that thought he figured that Voxxik knew that as well."

Might want to rework or retool the sentence. Currently its a bit muddled. You sort of have the "he said she said he said" thing going on with the string of pronouns.

Thanks Ramos for the spot check and the feedback as always. Those have been updated.

A dozen chapter serfs lined both sides of the hall way. They had been unloading supplies when Razzik had approached. They each stopped what they were doing to bow to Razzik. As he neared the officer the sound of distant singing drifted into his head. It was a beautiful song sung by a male choir. Razzik paused amidst the bowing serfs. The tune sounded familiar yet he could not place the name of the song.

The nameless music floated away and he realized he was standing still. He nodded to the officer of the crew that bowed to his right, “The Emperor thanks you for your service”. The officer seemed unable to respond in any way, perhaps the shock of being acknowledged by an astartes was too much for him. After Razzik had past he turned back to look at the serfs as they went back to work. Their pace had quickened and the officer held himself higher then he had a minute before. The minute action had seemed to reinvigorate them all.

The sudden sounds of weapons clashing and armor crashing turned Razzik back towards his destination. Razzik calmly approached the next set of open doors. Within was a scene he was not expecting.

Voxxik stood in the center of the hanger. His armor was frosted and his eyes seemed to be bleeding yellow light into the air. Around him twenty space marines were splayed across the floor or getting up, most of them had been disarmed.

The terminator librarian surveyed the hanger before turning towards the open doors. “Welcome captain.”

Razzik observed the marines standing up and collecting their weapons. Sergeant Phiniki walked up the open doorway and retrieved his power axe that was lodged into the metal frame. Razzik looked back to Voxxik and raised an eye brow.

“Captain, you were right in sending me, only Phiniki required additional effort to stop.” Voxxik stated with an air of superiority.

“Please keep your additional efforts from breaking our weapons, if you could,” Razzik casually said as Phiniki put a leg on the wall to help pull the axe out of it. When the marines were finished collecting themselves Razzik looked back to Voxxik.

“Please proceed,” Razzik said as crossed his arms near the open double doors.

“For the next few weeks all of your training will be done by me. I will be testing all your mental facilities to the max in order to improve you. That was a dismal first attempt at resisting only the minimal amount of power that could be unleashed at you. You are astartes and Ice Angels at that. I do not know how many of you were even allowed to don the Ice at all, simply pathetic.” Voxxik snarled as he looked at the marines before him.

Razzik studied the marines as Voxxik lectured them on how worthless they were and how much more powerful they should be. Many of the marines were newly initiated. Without even looking at names he could tell which they were. The others were older marines but new to these units. Sergeant Phiniki was the more tenured of the two squads. Razzik hadn’t seen him in several decades but long ago they had campaigned together. It was good to have a familiar face around.

“By the time we arrive at our destination, you will either be the whirlwind of blades I need you to be or I will personally liquefy everything between your ears.” Voxxik stated before stomping over to one of the marines. He leaned over in his terminator armor and got in his face, “and YES I can read your thoughts.”

A smile crossed Razzik’s face. He will either have two powerful squads that can truly manage Voxxik’s talents or…. Razzik let the thought disperse.

“Voxxik,” Razzik interrupted with a raised hand. “Voxxik you are not allowed to liquefy any of my marines with consulting me first.” He paused to look at the marines. The fresh faces still showed hints of emotion; the others were cold, only their eyes gave anything away.

“At my command I have a single company of Ice Angels. It may not be enough, but you’ve seen what Voxxik can do. There will be a time when he may need to exert himself and when that happens the twenty of you will be needed to maximize the gifts he’ll grant you. As difficult as it will be to learn from him, you must find a way. I’ll need you all to do much more then you ever thought you were capable of.” Razzik watched the room. The stern looks and tightened jaws gave him a feeling of satisfaction.

Without another word Captain Razzik turned and left the hanger. The doors closed behind him. It was time to visit one more unit before he could rest. He wanted to see the White.

Ho ho, and my appreciation for Voxxik goes further, seems like a bully in a way "do it my way or I'll make you wish you did"

question about a certain line

"allowed to dawn the Ice at all, simply pathetic." A little bit confused, in my head I read that as "allowed to don the Ice at all, simply pathetic." but if you could perhaps clarify what "dawn the Ice" means, I think that may help.

Lol. That was an error on my part. Corrected.

I have to agree with Knightley, Vox is becoming a favorite. Good interaction, again its nice to see the company commanders having a little more personality to them

Really?

Why do you guys like Voxxik so much? Is it because he is powerful? Or because he is a jerk? I'm surprised you guys like him, to be honest. In my head he wasn't a likeable character.

I wonder if its because he's a repeating antagonist, someone whos going against our main character.

We've had the stories from our heroes and the enemies they have to face, but no constant "bad" guy who's thwarting plans and making life a nuisance?

all the big bosses etc have been in the story for a short time before they get killed. Perhaps its time to add a big bad guy who keeps getting away?

Knightley you get a gold star! That is a good point. The "bad guy" is behind all the scenes doing evil deeds and so forth. Perhaps he needs a good revisit. A bit more action from the bad guy.

Actually Knightley, you may not have known it but your simple response has given me an AMAZING idea for book three. THE PLOT THICKENS!

Happy to have sparked some ideas!

I guess not knowing who the bad guy is or even if there is a bad guy (as its not explicitly said) means its not in focus for the reader, Voxxik on the other hand has been explained to us that he doesn't much care for Razzik and probably thinks he should be in charge so we know this guy is going to cause some chaos.

I'm not saying we need to have sections of the story from the antagonists point of view, however perhaps some scenes where he reveals himself, disappears (perhaps mangling a few heroes) taunting our heroes to try and stop him?

I hope Micus makes it to book three, that crazy crazy marine

I also agree with Knightley. Just having someone, who isn't necessarily bad, but is going to make his presence known / muck things up a bit is entertaining, especially when we get to see how Razzik responds. My favorite part so far was when Vox went into the chaplain's head, lol wasn't disobeying orders at all. He provides some life or at least some unexpected interaction in the chain of command. Philoser has his moments in his techmariney sort of way, and Aquilium... well he's Aquillium. But I think you have a real opportunity to play up the interaction between Razzik, Vox and Gonatzu

Razzik marched through the halls of the Alabaster Reflection to the center of the vessel. The transport drop ship was built and designed around the frozen prison that dwelled in its core. There is only one way in to the sub zero fortress and nearly half of the ships armed forces guard it. Compared to other vessels of similar size and shape the Alabaster Reflection carried three times the number of naval security.

It saddened Razzik to see the level of defenses that lay within the halls of the ship. The thought of brothers slaying each other and loosing control of themselves was a dark shadow that lurked behind every member of the chapter. Seeing the winter garbed humans patiently waiting behind fortifications and patrolling in sentinels was even worse.

His head steamed in the frigid cold outside the Alabaster Wall. Razzik looked at the scores of humans and servitors that maintained vigils around the turrets and firing points. There was a fifty yard kill zone between the soldiers and the wall.

A naval officer approached from Razzik’s left. He saluted when he was several steps away. His face was covered in a mask and he wore a full length trench coat. Fur lined his sleeves and the bottom of his coat.

“Captain Razzik,” he snapped.

Razzik regarded the officer before looking back across the empty room. It hardly felt like he was still in his own ship. It was as if he had been transported to a new battlefield.

“I’m Warden Officer Tsabo, Chaplain Gonatzu told us you’d be arriving. Please don your helmet, power up your weapons, and let me know when you are ready to cross.” Tsabo stated.

The words struck Razzik oddly before he powered up his fist and donned his helmet. He then nodded to Tsabo. The Warden Officer held up a hand and spoke into his vox. Wall mounted weapons swiveled into place, men reached for the weapons, servitors powered up their weapons systems. The distant wall began to light up. Several paths along the floor lit up a moment later. The paths were each a different color and no wider then a space marine. The entire room began to hum.

Tsabo watched it with a critical eye. He would preempt each step with a look as if his eyes alone started the process of each weapon system.

“Captain, in your honor we’ve deemed the purple path the safe route today. Please do not stray.” Tsabo ended with a hand gesture towards the wall.

A simple head nod was Razzik’s thanks. Slowly he examined the purple path. It had several turns in it and was far from the most direct route. He had no indication as to what would occur if he left the path but he had faith in the servants of his ship.

Steadily he walked the path. He had traversed a quarter of the way when he crossed a white chalk line and a purity seal. Several steps after that he saw several other purity seals. The seals were attached to the floor and as Razzik proceeded he noticed that there were more the closer he got to the door.

A semi circle of white marble indicated the swing of the doors. Razzik paused at the end of the path. The doors stayed closed. The lights around the door changed their blinking pattern before turning a solid red.

With a crackle and a hiss the doors cracked open. Air rushed out from the opening. The frost covered form of Chaplain Gonatzu stepped into the door way.

The somber tone of Gonatzu preceded him, “welcome to the Vault Captain Razzik.”