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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.

Nice. At least Jedrick got his fighting end he wanted. But now how many astartes are left for them?

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.

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.

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.

OH BOY, I can't wait to get into the next few chapters!

I have been reading the chaos daemon codex in great detail.

Nice! At least Eidolon is more subtle.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

Will he make it? What will happen? I can't wait to write it.

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.”

Part one ending soon! I hope people enjoyed this chapter. The 8th edition daemon codex was helpful.

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.

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.

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.

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?”

So yeah... epilogue, first part of the story is done! Hope people enjoyed the first part!





Oh yes if people actually want to know which mutations our fabulous leader has I got idea's from the black crusade role play.

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.

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

 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.

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...”

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.

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.

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...”

Very nice. It’s good to see characters changing. Nice job!

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.

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?