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Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






Indeed! Have a cookie with sprinkles - (that happens to look like a die).

Vulkan and Alex will be close friends, among others, and some Primarchs Alex will dislike. Maybe even hate one or two of them. Vulkan, however, will not be Alex's best friend. If you want to have a good idea of which Primarchs Alex will get along and not get along with, feel free to take a look at the Warden allied matrix.
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






"Thank you," Alex said as he entered. The musky scent of the Amazon greeted him as he walked through tropical plants, careful not to disturb anything. For all he knew, these might be the last specimens remaining on Terra. A glass door at the back of the conservatory took him out of the tiny rainforest and onto a small balcony.

The Emperor's gaze watched over the Annapurna Gate, the massive gate made small by distance. Next to him was a table holding a half-finished game of Regicide with all of the pieces hidden beneath hoods. Another chair large enough for a primarch waited for Alex.

"Are you remembering Babylon again, Father? Can you see the Hanging Gardens?"

The Emperor shook his head. "Paris, standing on the Eiffel Tower overlooking the Arc de Triomphe."

"I would've guessed the tower to be against your tastes."

A smile briefly flickered over the Emperor's face. "You would be correct. Such a vulgar building to be declared a national treasure. Napoleon had the right of it." His brown eyes turned on Alex.

Of course, his eyes weren't really brown. One of the few surprises that awaited Alex on Terra was his father's talent for changing his form. When it was just father and son, the Emperor would relieve himself of his bright, golden persona for a plainer one though with an unmistakable hint of great power. And always a head taller than Alex.

The Emperor gestured to the chair across from him. "Have a seat, my son. This will be my last lesson to you on Terra."

"I know," Alex replied as he studied the board in earnest.

Since the pieces were hooded, there was little to tell. The biggest item of note was the arrangement if pieces. Dividing the board in half left a small force on Alex's side and one that doubled it on the other.

"You may remove the hoods from the pieces on your side of the board, however from this point onward, you may only interact with your pieces through telekinesis."

That was a surprise. While Alex had foreseen the game taking place, the Emperor had quickly forbidden him from seeing any further. Alex lifted his hand, and the hoods gently flew off their owners before drifting and landing next to the board in a folded pile.

"Without using physical gestures," the Emperor amended. "There will be a time and place for theatrics on the battlefield, but the surest sign of a psyker's self-discipline is by how much he can accomplish while remaining still."

A nod was Alex's reply, but his focus was on his 'army'. No pawns as his pieces formed a protective shield around his king. He glanced at his opponent.

"You'll discover it is a rare campaign where you will outnumber your enemy. Nor will you have access to reliable intelligence." A hooded piece advanced a single space toward Alex's army. "Your move."
   
Made in us
Master Shaper




Gargant Hunting

This is an interesting teaching style. Yet again I suppose you can't exactly bring in an army of orks and whatnot to the Imperial Palace to train.

Irishpeacockz-Blackjack needs a pay raise for being the welcomer to the crusade
Palleus-Write a school essay about Kroot! Pride. Prejudice. And Cannibalsim. 
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






[This is true.]

Only a single move, but that was no guarantee that the piece was a pawn. For all Alex knew, he was against an army of queens that was merely toying with him. Unlikely, but he couldn't discount the possibility as he moved a knight away from the enemy, moving it to a safer spot on his left flank as he attempted to peer into the future. With a grunt, he hit a wall of psychic might that dwarfed his own. Father is going all-out, he thought to himself as the Emperor advanced a second piece, this time on his right flank.

"There are records of creatures that have no connection to the Warp," the Emperor explained as he waited. "Genetic manipulation was widely available during the Age of Technology. Who is to say that no man has created an army of nulls?"

"I imagine the processes to create such an army would have to forgo physical enhancements and would still be no match for a space marine," Alex countered as he positioned a rook in front of his king, while his mind began to 'scout' the wall before him. Even the Emperor wasn't perfect.

The first piece advanced again, placing itself directly before a bishop. Silent, the hood floated off, revealing a pawn. "Perhaps so, but a wise commander will never make an unnecessary assumption."

Alexandros avoided the temptation to simply kill the pawn as he finished forming his defenses. The Emperor steadily advanced his forces, more hoods falling away as pawns reached Alex's forces. First blood went to one of the primarch's bishops after one pawn strayed too far from the pack. Another pawn fell in a couple of more turns, but at the price of a knight when the Emperor revealed a rook of his own. "Your warship is built," the Emperor explained as he moved the dead knight off the board. "Have you chosen a name for it?"

"The Elpis," Alex replied as he countered with his king, which personally slew the rook next to it. Three enemy kills for one meant Alex would lose via attrition.

The Emperor quirked an eyebrow. "You would name a battleship 'Hope'?" Another hooded piece advanced, moving three spaces than one before revealing itself as an enemy knight. "Check."

"I think it fitting. For is that not what the Great Crusade is? We fight for the hope of a better tomorrow." Alex moved his king before quickly chasing away the enemy knight, while the Emperor moved a phalanx of pieces on his right flank. One pawn was getting dangerously close to his side of the board.

"There is truth in what you say," the Emperor agreed as his pawn met death via rook. Another moved through the new hole in Alex's lines and was only a single space away from the edge.
   
Made in gb
Raging Rat Ogre





England, UK

I'm just reading through this and enjoying it, but I had to skim quite far down the page to see what the II Legion (not IInd Legion) were called: the Storm Riders. Maybe I missed it earlier as I was reading this during a quiet period at work where I would occasionally be interrupted, but maybe they should have had a naming ceremony or something. Several Primarchs, eg Mortarion and Angron, re-named existing legions (Dusk Raiders to Death Guard and War Dogs (?) to World Eaters).

It will be interesting to see what differentiates this Legion from the known ones, and what it is that makes their Primarch need scratching from all Imperial records.

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 2015/06/27 12:55:42


Upcoming work for 2022:
* Calgar's Barmy Pandemic Special
* Battle Sisters story (untitled)
* T'au story: Full Metal Fury
* 20K: On Eagles' Wings
* 20K: Gods and Daemons
 
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






I confess, that is completely my fault. Originally, the II Legion didn't have a pre-Primarch name. It was only late into development (as in, I was on the verge of finishing their chapter, like you would find in a FW HH book) that I was struck by inspiration and the name. Unfortunately, I've had trouble re-introducing it into older material seamlessly.

Hope you enjoy the rest of it though!
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






The dangerous pawn died to a knight before being avenged by a rook. Alexandros switched tactics to offensive to overcome the numbers gap. Five dead pieces later, the odds were coming back to his favor, but was still vulnerable. Only five enemy pieces remained hooded, but three of them were in position to wreck his center if they weren't pawns or knights.

"I've noticed you are struggling with one of my lessons," the Emperor said as he waited.

"A few," Alexandros confessed. "Two in particular. I've noticed the Imperium's arsenal contains weapons fitted to destroy planets." He advanced a pawn toward one of the hooded pieces.

A different pawn of the Emperor moved, a distraction. "A necessity. There are enemies among the stars who will plague us unless we ensure their annihilation."

Alex's pawn continued forward, ready to strike. "I understand the need for powerful ordnance, but planet-killers? As slow as a planet life cycle is, they may as well be a finite resource. What enemy could we face that would require such destruction?"

The Emperor revealed his remaining rook before moving it to safety and catching Alex's queen between it and the earlier pawn. "I am not blind to the laws of the galaxy. These weapons will always be used in last resort. However, make no mistake Alex, you will face enemies who can't be swayed with words and will entrench themselves so deeply into their home world, that oblivion will become an option out of need. You must be ready for this possibility."

Alex's knight sacrificed itself to protect his exposed queen, defeating the rook only to fall prey to another pawn. "Very well, Father. I will be prepared."

"What is your other difficulty?"
   
Made in us
Master Shaper




Gargant Hunting

Hmm, not many times would I be interested in reading a chess game, but you sure do a great job. Keep up the great work, I look forward to more of this, and want to see some more promarchs. All in good time, I suppose.

Irishpeacockz-Blackjack needs a pay raise for being the welcomer to the crusade
Palleus-Write a school essay about Kroot! Pride. Prejudice. And Cannibalsim. 
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






[Isn't it amazing how writing can turn up the intensity on even the blandest of actions?]

With two hooded pieces remaining, the Emperor outnumbered Alex's forces, which had been reduced to his king, queen, two bishops, and a lone knight. "One of the aspects of the Imperial Creed. I don't know why you're insisting on the destruction of religion."

The Emperor paused, Alex abruptly found the mental opening he needed. Gathering his strength, he punched through the weakened barrier and threw himself into the remaining number of alternate realities for this game. Defeat had already met him in countless other games and before he could find the one where he won, the Emperor's defenses reconstructed before tossing him back into the present. Alex's body twitched as his mind landed in it, but it had been worth it. The two hooded pieces were a knight and a pawn, which meant that the Emperor had played with three more pawns instead of bishops and queen.

"It is for the best, my son," the Emperor continued after removing the last two hoods. "Religion causes more destruction than it is worth."

"Yet, the Adeptus Mechanicum continues with its theocracy," Alex countered, noting how effectively pinned his army was by the Emperor's remaining pawns. With a small grimace, he began the end-game, his bishop moving through the Emperor's flank. "I agree that some religions should be eradicated, but the Imperial Truth claims all religions deserving such treatment. Not only have you failed to follow through your own creed, but you eliminate any potentially beneficial beliefs along with the corrupted."

The Emperor ignored the bishop as he trapped Alex's queen. "A diplomatic necessity that will not survive the end of the Great Crusade. Religion divides humanity and weakens us. I know you value the power of unity. Is that not why you brought an end to the meaningless factions of Delos?"

Alex frowned as his queen slayed the first pawn only to die to the second. His knight rushed through the gap. "Check. I'm well aware that our capabilities as a species is magnified by pooling our efforts and am not denying the truth of it. I am denying you're claim that religion offers nothing to Humanity. Why not mirror the ancient Roman Empire? Allow any religion that does not threaten the peace?"

"The Roman Empire included an imperial cult, and I refused to be deified," the Emperor countered as his last knight moved to protect his king.

"Which is your prerogative," Alex said as he weighed his tactics. Victory stood distant from him. "Though, you must admit, the sheer power you wield puts you above many of the ancient divinities. There will be people who will see you as a god, no matter your desire." He began his final charge.

"Our survival as a species requires we abandon superstition." A pawn made it to the edge of Alex's side and transformed into a queen.

Another retort was on the way when Alex noticed something. The game forgotten as he peered at the Emperor, his mind analyzing the nuances of his last statement, catching something hidden deeper. "...why? Why is that the only way?"

The game momentarily forgotten as the Emperor met his son's stare. "There are enemies out there that threaten us. Enemies of great power who would manipulate the weakest of us to ensure our own destruction."

A bishop idly ended the Emperor's last knight. "Yet, with my brothers and the legions, what enemy could pose a threat to us? You...you're not speaking generally. There is an enemy you're thinking of."

"Your gifts of perception are great, my son, however," the Emperor said as his new queen killed the flanking bishop. His eyes hardened. "Not all knowledge is good."

Alex buckled beneath the weight of the words as they were amplified by psychic power. The message clear. "Very well, Father. Check." King faced king with only a single space between them.

"Mate," the Emperor finished as a second pawn became a queen, finishing the snare Alex had seen in two other games.

Alexandros scanned the field. He decided not to comment on the lack of bishops' on his Father's side and phrased his question differently. "You played with two more pawns?"

"It will be the rare enemy who will match you in strength of force," The Emperor replied. "Though they might wield a few powerful war machines, your common enemy will have no choice but to use large amounts of lesser infantry and attempt to drown you in bodies. A less sophisticated strategy, but even Astartes have their limits." The door opened as Valdor stepped out. Behind him, a servitor pushed a large metal chest onto the balcony. Alexandros quirked an eyebrow at the Emperor. "As I said, this was your last lesson. It is time for you to take your place in the Great Crusade. These are your parting gifts."
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






Valdor keyed a few runes before the seals unlocked. Slowly, the chest's hatch opened as Alexandros walked over. Within the container, he found expertly-wrought purple armor waiting for him. At the head of the armor was a helmet, made in the style of the ancient Corinthians, yet this one could seal against the vacuum of space. A crest of red 'hair' divided the helmet into left and right halves. Next to the armor was a power short sword and a round shield, large enough to cover most of a primarch. Alexandros carefully lifted the armor, and a bright red cape unfurled from the shoulders. He glanced back at the Emperor with a smile.

"A human general fulfills his duty best at a safe distance from the front lines. We are meant to lead humanity from the fore, and require enough protection of ourselves yet must be always be visible on the field of battle." The Emperor stood. "This armor will do more than shield you from physical attacks. Within both the helmet and pauldrons are focusing crystals from Aklantisiana that will allow you greater finesse in controlling your powers and eases your ability to defend others from warpcraft. You have mastered shielding your honor guard from enemy psykers. With this, you'll be able to shield far more of your soldiers."

"A kingly gift, Father," Alexandros affirmed as his fingers traveled over the pauldrons, sensing the crystals. "I mean no offense, Father, but I'm surprised how bare it is, compared to my brothers."

"It mirrors the legion you will lead. Each legion may have a preference for one area of war, but they were created from the same process that granted them their grey armor. As Horus and Leman have molded their legions to their taste, so will you. Including what symbols your armor bears."

Alexandros studied the armor, imagining the possible symbols and crests he could engrave into it. After a moment, he replaced it in the chest before reaching for the sword and shield. They were heavier than he expected, but light enough to wield comfortably in battle. He twirled the sword between his fingers before banging it against the shield. Both vibrated as he tested their balance.

"The power field within the sword will enable you to cut through any armor. The generator in the shield will protect you from most weapons, be it slugs or a salvo from a lascannon," the Emperor briefly explained. "Remember, these tools will reach their full potential when you wield them in conjunction with your psychic gifts. Channeling your psychic might through the sword will allow you to end most foes in a single blow. The shield may only face direction, but what will that matter if you always know which way the attack will come from?"

"Indeed, when will I have the chance to wield them?"

"Within the week. I mentioned that this was your final lesson. In twenty-four hours, we depart from Terra. Your command ship," the Emperor paused, "the Elpis, has entered into Terran orbit. I suggest you allow yourself at least twelve hours for ceremony and inspection. Finally, I recommend you chose a ranged weapon to carry into battle. While our level technology makes melee possible, there's little reason to hamper yourself by not having some form of ballistic weaponry. That choice, I leave entirely to your discretion."
   
Made in us
Master Shaper




Gargant Hunting

Oh boy, it would be cool to see Alexandros in a full battle. This is going to get real eventful fast.

Irishpeacockz-Blackjack needs a pay raise for being the welcomer to the crusade
Palleus-Write a school essay about Kroot! Pride. Prejudice. And Cannibalsim. 
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






A few ideas buzzed around Alex's mind as he considered his reserve weapon. "Who will I be warring against?"

"The XXth legion has discovered the Webway entrance that the xeno pirate fleet uses to raid your home system. Your objective will be to eliminate the Webway portal and annihilate the xeno forces."

Old Memories of Delian battles asserted themselves as Alex remembered the foes that had given him the necessary cause to unite the planet. With a bloodthirsty grin, he said, "I'm looking forward to this."

"I will be joining you," the Emperor replied. "Only as an adviser. You will be chief-in-command for this campaign. From overall strategy to battle tactics, it will be your vision, and your execution. Prove yourself to the Imperium and to your legion that you are ready for the Great Crusade."

What should have been a daunting task filled Alexandros with excitement as his mind jumped ahead to logistical issues. He paused as he forced himself back in the present. "I will not fail you, Father."

The Emperor smiled. "I know you won't, Alex." He gestured to the conservatory's door. "You have much work ahead of you, you have my leave to begin."

Alexandros bowed before the Emperor before he walked toward his destiny.
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






Chapter 3: First Strike

Alexandros preferred to call it a meditation chair.

Yes, it was located in the center of the bridge, while the captain’s throne was seated closer to the fore. But that was because of how the bridge was arranged. When viewed from above, one could see that the bridge was shaped like a lotus flower with each petal corresponding to a different expertise. The central pedal held navigation and weapon systems and the captain’s throne. The left pedal was their communications hub, while the right hub handled engineering. At the point where the three pedals overlapped was Alex’s chair.

Yes, it looked more like a throne than it did a chair, especially since it was larger than the captain’s throne. But no decorations adorned beyond a single golden gem above where Alex’s head would be. Some said it looked like an apple, but its actual purpose was a focusing tool for Alexandros’ powers. So long as he sat there, he could see and hear farther and further.

Yet, because it did look like a command throne, Alex avoided it, knowing he would only sit upon it when it was time to call upon his powers. Until then, he situated himself next to the captain’s throne. The man granted the honor of being the Elpis’ first captain had distinguished himself in the Campaign against the Sultanate.

Hierax had been serving aboard the Jutland Spear as a lieutenant. His captain died during an ambush early in the Sultanate campaign, during one of the first pushes into the asteroid field protecting the Sultanate. Despite the terrible first blow done to them, Hierax quickly assumed command of both his ship and the squadron, rallying them to counter-attack. Although his squadron lost a frigate, they were able to deal twice the damage done to the enemy and paved the way for the IInd legion to invade Asteroid M4-78.

Since then, Hierax has had a long career of exemplary service, promoted into steadily larger warships. While the Elpis was under construction, he was serving as XO on a battle barge, the Hammer of Albyon. After reviewing his record, Alexandros believed him to be the perfect commander for his personal warship.
   
Made in gb
Raging Rat Ogre





England, UK

I'm halfway through reading this and enjoying it. To answer a previous comment about Alexandros getting on with all the Primarchs: while it's true the other Primarchs get on with some and not all of their brothers, what if Alexandros did get on with them all? It would make his fall even more mysterious. Why would they scratch all records of a Primarch who was likeable and friendly?

As an aside, this is the part of the Heresy fluff that doesn't make sense: surely something must have happened to the missing Primarchs and their Legions (assuming Legions were created using their genetic code in the first place), yet in many of the Heresy books, the idea of fighting against other Legionnaires/Primarchs fills them with horror, as if it's never happened before.

Maybe the Primarchs died during incubation (as is implied for at least one of the Primarchs, I think it's in False Gods), or were never recovered perhaps due ot being lost in the warp, or when they were found the Emperor ordered their planets bombarded to kill them due to irredeemable corruption?

Upcoming work for 2022:
* Calgar's Barmy Pandemic Special
* Battle Sisters story (untitled)
* T'au story: Full Metal Fury
* 20K: On Eagles' Wings
* 20K: Gods and Daemons
 
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






The man could've been considered handsome by conventional standards were it not for the plasma burn covering his right cheek and the cybernetic arm that replaced his burned one. A leftover reminder from his fifth battle on the Albyon. Thanks to his injury, he wore no facial hair but allowed a brown fuzz to cover his head as his amber eyes flitted through reports. He glanced up at the window that formed a quarter dome over the bridge, allowing everyone to peer into space.

He addressed his primarch, "My lord, we've confirmed the intelligence reports. The portal is located on the fourth planet, IG-88, at the bottom of a large canyon in the southern hemisphere. We can have it secured in three hours."

Alexandros shook his head before scratching his red beard. "No. If we do that, then we'll never destroy the Kabal. Xenevo always sends a scouting party first before moving out in full force. Hide the fleet behind the moon. Our best chance at ending this threat is to lure them from the Webway before destroying the gate. Once that is accomplished, we can slay them at our leisure."

"You already have a plan, my lord?"

"I do," the Primarch admitted. "I've already alerted logistics of my requirements. All I'm waiting on is the list of volunteers. We're going to have a small detachment of the Imperial Army act as though they are surveying the planet for the Imperium with a detachment of Riders hidden amongst them. Xenevo will discover them and won't be able to resist attacking. The moment the last xeno is clear of the Webway portal, you are are to destroy it from orbit. Once done, the rest of the Storm Riders will deploy from the fleet, protecting the remaining Imperial Army units, and finish off the Miasma."
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






"My lord," a new voice said. Alexandros turned around and looked down as a Lieutenant saluted him. "Sub-Commander Wilhelm reports his unit roster is completed. They will be ready to deploy in a few hours, at your convenience, my lord."

"Excellent," Alexandros replied. He glanced back at Hierax. "Captain, in twenty minutes, a full tactical plan will arrive to debrief you on both the ground engagement and how the fleet's role in the upcoming battle. If you notice any deviations, you have my permission to address them as you see fit. And please alert Captain Ricksher that I won't him and his company staff to report to Briefing Room 16B in forty minutes."

"Aye, my lord," Hierax answered with a nod, as much as one as his implants would allow.

Alexandros gestured to the Lieutenant, "Mr.Bowditch, if you would lead the way?"

Lieutenant Bowditch twitched in a uniform that had never seen battle, much like its owner. "My lord?"

"I wish to meet the men and women who will be accompanying me to battle. Please, lead on," the Primarch explained with a small, mischievous smile.

"Of course, my lord!" Bowditched said before doing an about-face and marching to where his new unit was.

While armouries could provide the room for squads and other small elements to conduct unit maintenance and mission review, for anything larger, they simply lacked the appropriate space. During his studies and interviews, Alexandros had learned that space marines often held their assemblies in hangar bays, their strong vocal chords and enhanced hearing able to counter the typical bedlam. While Alex agreed it was possible, he preferred such meetings were held in areas with fewer distractions and had commanded the Elpis host a number of mustering halls. It was in Hall 26C, he found Wilhelm and his volunteer unit.

Five hundred Solar Auxilia filled a fraction of the hall as they were engaged in a myriad of activities. Most were involved in equipment inspections, while several tercios were finishing up roll calls. Taking a deep breath, the sandy-haired Bowditch put an end to all of that as he shouted, "ATTENTION ON DECK!" With a speed and discipline that would've earned a grudging nod from an astartes sergeant, the entire unit dropped what they were doing and all came to the position of attention.

"At ease!" Alexandros replied. "Carry on with what you were doing."

An order apparently hard to carry out as many of the infantrymen couldn't avoid stealing glances at the towering primarch. Alexandros mentally snickered as he noticed one female trooper who was absentmindedly putting her rifle barrel in backwards. Sub-Commander Wilhelm, a dark-skinned man who was as new to his rank as Bowditch was, and two Troop Masters promptly marched up, flashing salutes. "My lord, I wasn't aware you would be inspecting my unit. I apologize for its current state."

Alexandros waved it off. "No apology needed, Sub-Commander. I'm here to personally debrief you and your unit on our upcoming deployment."
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






Wilhelm offered a deep but confused nod. "As you will, my lord. When do you wish to carry out the briefing?"

A pause lingered as Darshan briefly consulted with the future. "In twenty minutes. In fifteen, have your auxilia finish whatever current task they are on and have them in formation."

"It will be done, my lord."

"Until then, I will be taking a stroll through your unit. If you'll excuse me," Alexandros finished with a nod. Wilhelm affirmed before he returned to his duties. Holding his hands languidly behind his back, the primarch meandered around the room. Up to this point, the only interaction Alexandros had with the famed Solar Auxilia was a few meetings with high-ranking personnel. While he was aware of their purpose and their reputation, nothing could replicate the knowledge obtained from seeing them up close, and he figured this was a small but golden opportunity.

He stopped by a lasrifle section that had finished roll call. With their duties squared away, the Void Sergeant was shouting some basic advice to his troopers. "I don't care what part of Terra you bunch of idiots came from or how many kills you made in your last unit! As of now, you fight under my command! When I say 'breach', the melta charges will be primed and ready to be set! When I say 'fire', not one lasrifle will stay quiet! When I say 'hold', you will hold, even it's motherfrackin' Horus comin' at you!"

At this point, one auxilia's discipline momentarily broke as he couldn't help but glance at Alexandros standing behind the Sergeant.

"WHAT IN THE VOID ARE YOU LOOKING AT, TROOPER?!" The Void Sergeant frothed as he charged up to the trooper.

With an amused smile, Alexandros spared the poor auxiliary from his superior. "I believe I share some of the blame."

The Void Sergeant whirled around, mouth wide open to deliver another deluge. Then froze as he realized who he was about to rant at.
   
Made in us
Master Shaper




Gargant Hunting

Wow, I would have loved to see the Sergeant rant at Alexandros. Also, I'd like to say it's impressive how fast you get these installations out, considering how writing is a tricky business.

Irishpeacockz-Blackjack needs a pay raise for being the welcomer to the crusade
Palleus-Write a school essay about Kroot! Pride. Prejudice. And Cannibalsim. 
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






Well, if you don't mind me being blunt, technically I'm not. This is the third forum I've brought Alex and his Wardens to. In the other forums, both the story and the legion are more developed. Though the gap is shrinking, since every post I've done here, includes two previous posts elsewhere.

At the same time, my speed used to be a post a day, so this isn't too different from my heyday. But that was before I moved towns, which happened in the last two weeks. Still not sure if I can retain that speed, but we'll see.
   
Made in us
Master Shaper




Gargant Hunting

Either way, it's still a really good story. I'm loving the interactions with all of the soldiers, it helps paint out who Alexandros is. Also, I forgot to mention earlier that Alexandros is doing the exact opposite of what Perturabo did when he met his legion, and I'm curious to see Alexandros' reaction to that one.

Irishpeacockz-Blackjack needs a pay raise for being the welcomer to the crusade
Palleus-Write a school essay about Kroot! Pride. Prejudice. And Cannibalsim. 
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






"It's a challenge to create a cohesive unit from some many different elements," Alexandros offered, preventing an awkward pause. "Especially given such short amount of time. However, it looks like you've made significant progress. Or am I mistaken, Sergeant?"

Given enough time to recover, the Void Sergeant puffed out his chest. "No, my lord! We are Solar Auxilia! Give the order and my section will assault the very madness of the Warp! Isn't that right troopers?"

"YES, VOID SERGEANT!" They shouted, filling the entire hall with a din, earning looks from all around.

Alexandros stepped past the sergeant up to the trooper who had acknowledged him. "What's your name, auxiliary?"

The mortal craned his head upward to meet the Primarch's eyes. "Ruland Holt, my lord."

It fascinated Alexandros to watch the unseen struggle within Holt. Half of him was very uncomfortable and surprised that one of the Emperor's own sons would speak with him, aware of the magnitude of Alex's physical and martial power. The other half was filled with pride and a vague sense of relief, the latter being influenced by Alex's aura. "What unit do you hail from?"

"The 67th Solar Auxilia Cohort, my lord."
   
Made in us
Long-Range Land Speeder Pilot






Alexandros paused as he accessed his eidectic memory. "It's only been a couple of months since the Karyon Campaign. Bloody work, it was. Yet, you've volunteered for another dangerous assignment. Why?"

Shifting uncomfortably, Ruland answered simply. "I want to serve the Emperor to the best of my ability, my lord."

No deceit, no flattery, just honest resolve. With a respectful nod, Alexandros declared, "And that's why I wanted volunteers instead of just handing out assignments. Make no mistake, this will be a hard battle, but a worthwhile one. I need auxiliaries I can trust, and you've demonstrated that, Trooper Holt." He addressed the section as a whole. "The Emperor is fortunate to have such dedicated soldiers serving his Imperium. You honor me by accompanying to this battle. I will do everything I can to be worthy of that honor."

There was some truth to the ancient sayings of colors corresponding to emotions. Green with envy. Red with rage. To be blue. Before Alexandros' eyes, a wave of gold spread from Holt through the section as pride swelled within them.

osted 29 May 2015 - 09:02 AM
Alexandros glanced at their superior. "Carry on, Void Sergeant."

"Yes, my lord!"

Time had passed during his little pep rally. Although he wanted to speak to more of the auxilia, he made his way back to the front of the room. As he walked, he reached out with his mind. Gaius.

His son answered. Yes, my lord?

Please come to Hall 26C in 6.3 minutes with your brothers. I want to introduce you to the soldiers.

It will be done, my lord, Gaius replied.

With a nod, Alexandros broke the telepathic link. By the end of the brief conversation, he had reached the front of the room. The call to formation rang out through the hall. Auxilia scrambled as they assembled into neat ranks separated by tercios. Wilhelm and his strategos took their place near the Primarch at the front.

"Sub-Commander, as soon as you're ready, I will begin the briefing," Alexandros said.

Wilhelm affirmed as the new unit, which would be dubbed the 102nd Solar Auxilia Cohort, finished falling in. With a quick order, the Sub-Commander handed the floor over to the Emperor's son.
   
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Alexandros scanned the unit before beginning. "102nd, your first assignment will be to eliminate a corrupted Eldar army known as the Miasma. On IG-88, there is a known Webway portal, which the Miasma operates for its raids. In nineteen hours, the Miasma will be sallying forth from the portal to commit another raid. Instead, they will find the 102nd on a recon mission and establishing a foothold several kilometers south of the portal. Only a single Imperial warship will be in plain sight, orbiting directly above the landing zone. It is imperative that the presence of the Storm Riders be hidden for the first stage of this battle. Only if the 102nd appears to be alone, will the enemy commander, an Archon called Xenevo, launch a full attack and be vulnerable to annihilation. Once the last fallen Eldar is far enough away from the portal, the Storm Riders will attack, both destroying the portal and reinforcing the Auxilia's position."

While a high-level professionalism was exhibited, both Alexandros' enhanced senses and sharp eyes caught disquiet amid the ranks. No one relished being the distraction. "While deception is key, you will not be alone. The landing zone will be located at the center of a valley that leads directly toward the Webway portal. On the heights around the valley, Captain Ricksher and his company of recon marines will be in position and armed with sniper rifles and other long-range ballistics to support you."

"Most importantly," Alexandros continued with a pause. "I will be with you."

That caught his audience off-guard. A few auxiliaries actually dropped their jaws before re-asserting their discipline. "As commander, it is my duty to place myself at the most critical point to ensure success, and that is with the 102nd. For this operation to succeed, it will require a great deal of trust."

Now, my sons.

Gaius and eleven grey-armored space marines marched into the hall to take their place behind their gene-sire. The presence of several staves and other force weapons revealed their psyker nature to the Solar Auxilia. Many in the room became guarded and wary, a legacy of the Storm Riders' 'curse'. Another enemy that Darshan sought to defeat. "I understand I am requiring much of all of you. However, give me this ounce of faith, and I will see it return ten-fold," he said, willing his innate aura to wash through them. The seed of doubt lingered in much of the cohort, but was diminished. Ideally, it would have been gone entirely before Darshan's next step, but this was as close as he would get.

In battle, this is how I will communicate to most of you. Many of you have heard rumors about the extent of my powers. I will confirm a few. I can peer into the future. I can hear the thoughts of men when I choose. Armed with both, I can stop ambushes before they begin, forewarn you of the round that would extinguish your life, and guide your aim to lethal accuracy. So, hear and know my other 'voice'. Do not be afraid. For I am a son of the Emperor, and will lead you to victory.

A mirror image of Darshan's first Delian battlefield command played out before him. The initial panic of hearing another's thoughts in one's mind. The slow transition from panic to suspicion. To the limit of progress he could earn in a single speech: reluctant trust. It would do, Alex knew.
   
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He spared them any more telepathy as he physically spoke. "Your individual assignments and other mission details will be passed down the chain of command." He glanced at Wilhelm. "Sub-Commander, attend to what duties you must, but be at Briefing 16B in ten minutes." The two saluted each other as Alexandros returned the unit back to Wilheln.

"My sons," he prompted before the transhumans filed out of the hall.

"Father, I'm surprised you didn't give a proper speech," Gaius said as they moved to the next meeting.

"Speeches should be reserved for the battlefield or the politicians. To alight the heart at the right moment. Do it too often, and you'll only create embers instead of bonfires."
   
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While the assemblies were designed to house hundreds of soldiers at a time, briefing rooms were limited to a few dozen personnel. Captain Ricksher and his lieutenants all looked up as Alexandros and his impromptu retinue entered, while a servitor continued to input data into the holographic display. "My lord," Ricksher said as they saluted. "We were finishing up." The image of IG-88 lit the room as the hologram display came online. "We'll have a detailed map of the operations area in a few more minutes."

"Excellent," Alexandros replied as he walked up to the display. A cursory glance reassured the Primarch his visions were still accurate. "Are your marines properly equipped for the task ahead, Captain?"

"Two hundred marines, all with functioning cameleoline cloaks and sniper rifles," Ricksher answered as he glanced at a datapad. "I can set up troop positions, establish fire lanes, and have my men completely prepared as soon as Fleet finishes their scans."

The display answered him as it zoomed onto the planet's surface, focusing on five kilometer area. In another moment, the a digital representation of the Webway gate appeared. "Is that portal large enough to allow their fleet to travel through?" one of the lieutenants asked.

Though the question was aimed at Ricksher, Alexandros answered, "It isn't. The kabal and their fleet are almost separate political entities and require two different portals. It's a system put in place due to the trust between Xenevo and their fleetmaster, or lack of trust. It gives their fleetmaster a sense of empowerment and a chance to do some raiding during their travel to this system. Xenevo uses the time to his own advantage as he purges his kabal of 'weaknesses' away from their home station. Their fleet's portal is in a nearby system."

Ricksher's blue eyes looked up from the datapad. "You're very familiar with the enemy commander, my lord. Have you fought him?"

With a shake of his head, Alexandros explained, "No, all my information on Xenevo was gleaned from reading the minds of his warriors. Otherwise, I would not have allowed him to escape alive from Delos. That's also why I know little about their fleetmaster. None of the minds I read cared to know his name, and my battles with the Miasma were limited to ground combats. Once we've annihilated the kabal and their allies, we can prepare for their fleet, though I have less hope of surprising them."

He paused as he reached out with his thoughts. Father, you've been quiet for a while.

There has been little need for my voice. You've learned well, and your methods are thorough. Continue to do so.


Alexandros couldn't stop the burst of pride at the compliment, and didn't want to. He reveled in it for a moment before he returned to the task at hand. The door opened as Wilhelm, Bowditch, and several strategoi. "We can begin now."
   
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The Primarch moved toward the hologram's emitter and began to input information. Next to the 3D display of the valley, images and archived tactical information of their enemy appeared. "Our enemy is a small army of six thousand warriors with each infantry unit having their own transport. For our part of the battle, survival is the primary objective. We need only hold out long enough for the last xeno to be far enough away from the gate to destroy it. The moment that happens, the rest of the Storm Riders in system will deploy via all means to surround and eliminate the Miasma. The 102nd will take the initial brunt of the attack, but our deception doesn't require the auxiliaries to be deployed out in the open. Wilhelm, once the 102nd enters the operational area, your first objective is to establish a forward operating base. You will have fifteen hours to construct whatever defences you are able to. The scouting elements of the Miasma will exit the gate an hour before dawn. It will provide the perfect excuse to have the 102nd concentrated at the base. The moment we've identified the Miasma, bring 102nd to full battle readiness. The only lure the Miasma will need is to know how small the cohort is and that it is alone."

As he spoke, the holographic map of the valley added the 102nd, along with possible fortification layouts.

"The enemy commander is Xenevo, an Archon. He is responsible for raiding my homeworld for the last thirty-four years," he continued, enlarging an image of said Eldar, taken from Delian battle recordings. Sickly green and blight-filled grey spiked armor distinguished the xeno male. The Archon glared contemptuously at them. Alexandros looked forward to breaking that pride. "Like his kind, he is a depraved individual, yet cunning. He has an alliance with a Haemonculous Coven, so expect to face against these creatures." With another prompt, Xenevo shrunk as grotesquely-shaped and mal-formed beings took center stage. "Thankfully, there will be few of them. Xenevo fields common warriors as the bulk of his forces since he is currently in a declining state with his race's politics and has been deprived of more elite forces because of it."

With the overall concepts established, the briefing moved onto the gritty details. What was the optimal fortification set-up? Which tercios would have the honor (or ill fortune) to be stationed closest to the Dark Eldar initial attack? Weapon loud-outs, firing lanes, psyker support, and so on. With the change of focus, Alexandros moved from primary actor to adviser. Unlike some commanders, he refused to give in to micro-management, despite his powers of intellect and foresight. He listened as the space marine captain and the sub-commander offered tactical plans, speaking only to approve them or to suggest recommendations.

They were completing the final details when an interruption occurred that Alexandros half-expected, even without his talents. The door opened as Irvin Ruel marched in. Alexandros nodded to his second-in-command. "Chapter Master. To what do we owe the pleasure?"

With a quick salute and a disapproving edge to his voice, Ruel answered, "My lord, I have been informed of the overall strategy for this upcoming battle and that you intend to place yourself in the most dangerous assignment."

"There's no intention at all," Alexandros said with a small smile that quickly faded. "It's an order. I will be fighting with the 102nd."

To the other officers, the slight inflection transformed the Primarch from a friendly father-figure to one of the undisputed lords of the Imperium. Irvin felt the full force of it and forced himself not to kneel. "My lord," he began again, the disapproval removed from his tone. "May I offer a suggestion?"

"You may," Alexandros allowed, "So long as you do not suggest that I be placed with a different unit."

After a pause, Irvin said, "With the current deployment, my lord will be placed in a great deal of danger. Is there not a way to mitigate the threat to your well-being?"

"I am open to suggestions, as I've said Chapter Master."
   
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Gargant Hunting

Man, I can't wait to see the primarch in an actual conflict, especially since he's going to have undisputed psychic power of the Dark Eldar, who can't use psykers.

Irishpeacockz-Blackjack needs a pay raise for being the welcomer to the crusade
Palleus-Write a school essay about Kroot! Pride. Prejudice. And Cannibalsim. 
   
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Irvin glanced at the holo-display, which featured the 102nd's, Ricksher's, and the most likely disposition of the Miasma forces. "My lord, while the Solar Auxilia will be fighting in entrenched positions, the Ricksher's 74th will be exposed once the fighting has begun. I recommend at least a second company of assault marines to prevent the 74th from being overwhelmed, should the Miasma swarm them. Although they have few dedicated assault units, if they concentrate their forces on half of the company at a time, they will be eliminated."

"And leave themselves open to devastating volleys from the 102nd," Alexandros pointed out. "However, that is not not answering the crux of the issue. How will you hide another company of space marines? The energy used by power armor will make them visible to the Miasma sensors."

The Chapter Master began an explanation on how to modify the power armor's energy signature, but Darshan already knew it was futile. While the energy footprint could be shrunk, it would not be enough to hide it from enemy sensors. Instead, he reached out his thoughts again. Father, it is time.

I have two archaeotech field generators that can render your Chapter Master's forces invisible for a span of three hours. After that point, their energy reserves will be exhausted. The fields will be large enough to hide two hundred marines, however they must remain immobile until the field deactivates.

Thank you, Father. Irvin will be pleased.

As you saw in your visions, a day ago.

Irvin needed a reminder that I am his commanding officer.

I know, my son, and I agree.

The smile wouldn't stay hidden as Alexandros interrupted Irvin's doomed theory. "It's not possible, Ruel, and you are wasting time suggesting it. The Emperor, however, has a solution for you."

Irvin froze. "The Emperor is aware of my plea?"

"He is," Alexandros said with a nod before he explained the two relics that Irvin would be trusted with.

Turning back to the holo-emitter, Alexandros added the new units. Behind the halves of the recon company, two elements of a larger company generated. "I already know you will assemble the detachment out of assault marines and that will work seamlessly with our current battle plan, Ruel." With another button, data copied onto a spare datapad. He handed it to Ruel. "This contains the likely capabilities of our enemy. Review them then assemble your detachment. I leave personnel choices and weapon layouts to your decision. Your marines must be ready to deploy in twelve hours. Understood, Lord Commander?"

Irvin accepted the datapad before saluting. "They will be ready in ten hours, my lord." Moving with a new purpose, he left the briefing room.

As Alexandros turned his attention back to the other officers. Bowditch hesitantly said, "My lord, will his unit be ready to deploy so soon? It took us almost two days to create the 102nd."

With a grin, Alex answered, "It will actually take him ten hours and seventeen minutes. But don't tell him I told you that. Now, we were nearing the end of the briefing before the interruption. Are there any more questions regarding the battle? Captain?"

Ricksher shook his head. "I'll have my company ready on the launch deck in an hour."

"Sub-Commander?"

"None at this time, my lord."

"Very good." Alexandros turned off the hologram. "Dismissed."
   
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As the officers filed out of the briefing room, the Emperor spoke. And what of my assignment?

Alexandros froze. When the fleet was a day away from the system, he had placed himself deep into meditation as he surveyed the tides of the future. He had learned many things, how to trap his enemy, who would fight beside him, and more. Yet, nothing in his visions had forewarned him of this conversation. The idea of the Emperor being under his command felt like a bad joke. How could anyone presume to command the Emperor?

Alexandros, the Emperor prodded. The hint of amusement at the edge of the thought was unmistakable.

Yes, Father. After an instantaneous review of the battle plan, he replied. I want you to lead the second wave after we've confirmed the Miasma has completely committed to the fight. If, for any reason, my trap fails, I want you to intervene as you deem fit...my lord.

Very well, Lord VonSalim. It will be done as you order. The arachaeotech fields are already enroute to the Elpis.

Thank you, Father. Alexandros finished as he exited the room.
   
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Chapter 4: Beams of Light against Tendrils of Dark

One of the fringe benefits of being a Primarch was how little sleep one needed. It was a genetic triumph how much sleep his sons needed, only a few hours a day. And, if they pushed themselves, the space marines could go weeks without sleep. Yet, that paled in comparison to Alexandros' own needs. Half an hour was more than enough to get him by on a daily basis. For the sake of experimenting, he once tried to sleep as much as he could. Since he was essentially immune to sleeping pills, he had to do it naturally. His longest record was one hour and twenty-two minutes. Experimenting in reverse, he was able to stay awake for over a year without any kind of repercussion. Even then, he only felt a light drowsiness that he could banish with his warp-based skills. He suspected if he did master the art of biomancy, he could theoretically be able to be free of sleep indefinitely. An amusing thought, but one that did not hold his attention.

Still, he took advantage of his Primarch physiology and continued his early morning stroll through the new base. With only an hour left before the Miasma's arrival, base construction had been wrapped up and now only the auxiliaries on guard duty for the hour were awake. He used his free time by visiting the various guards. Speaking long enough to hear who they were, how were they, and to reassure them that victory would be theirs, time passed quickly as Alexandros completed his circuit.

To his eyes, one of the most entertaining displays of auras belonged to an army at sleep. As they slumbered, their dreams and thoughts experienced freedom, leading to low canopy of chaotic yet vibrant colors over the camp. Colors not even imagined by Man danced next to the Primarch, speaking of unspoken thoughts and desires.

The base itself featured a simple design. Aegis defense walls formed a rectangle around them. Two gates at the center of the short sides were the main entrances. Six bastion towers watched over them; one at each corner and two in the center of the long sides. In between the towers were additional weapon batteries and ammo caches. Wilhelm had feared the base was too well defended, but Alexandros had stymied his fears. So long as they looked like they were alone, the Miasma would fall for the trap. That's why it was okay that the weapon platforms on the far side of the camp happened to feature weapons with greater ranges.

Alexandros activated a private vox channel as he glanced at the hills on either side of the valley. "Irvin, what's your status?"

"We're finishing one last inspection before we take our position. I have every assurance that the invisible fields can be activated in a moment's notice, Alex."

"Excellent, keep me informed." Alexandros switched channels. "Ricksher, are your marines, ready?"

"Father, all you have to do is give the word, and the Miasma's leadership will fall," Ricksher replied.

"That's why I gave your company the entire list of Eldar leaders. How large is the betting pool on who kills Xenevo?"

There was a sheepish pause before Ricksher answered. "It's roughly two hundred thrones, my lord." It was true that no marine every needed money, but that didn't stop some marines from gambling for entertainment amongst their brothers.

With a chuckle, Alexandros said as he finished his tour around the base, "Very well, I'll refrain from adding to the pool myself. Keep your men ready. The time is almost upon us."
   
 
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