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Nice the sentIment is there. Great job as always!

Chapter 35
Each step felt heavy, his heart hanged in his chest like a lead weight a part of him could not believe Beleth would rescue his sister but for some reason he is going to the meeting point. Walking down the road he eventually stood in front of a somewhat run down building he looked at the note, it’s the correct street and address. “This must be the place….” Martin whispered to himself. He knocked the the door lightly with the back of his fist, as his hand tapped on the door he heard several locks being undone what surprised him even more is whoever is unlocking the door is not bothering to check who it is via the peephole.

The door swung open and he finally saw his “rescuer” grinning ear to ear. “So you made it, come in.” said Beleth, Martin went on guard right away there is no way they could of raided a possible gang base and made it alive along with his sister. He watched Beleth gesture into the darkness “it’s not a trap, hurry and get in.” “are you sure? How can I be sure that this is not a trick? Yo-” before he could say anything else Beleth roughly pulled him in and closed the door. He struggled in Beleth’s grip. “Let me go! Damn you!” flailing in Beleth’s grip he then casually went to locking the doors ignoring his ranting, once done he let him go causing him to fall to the ground.

He ground his teeth in frustration “what are you playing at!?” shouted Martin, he rubbed his bottom slightly as he got up. Beleth merely ignored him as he walked into the darkness, once he vanished Martin brushed his clothes and followed. It’s clear enough his “rescuer” is leading him somewhere and he doubts he is going to sell him out to the black bull’s considering how many he has killed. What he knows for sure is Beleth has an agenda and he is involved whether he likes it not.

Martin rubbed the back of his head in annoyance “I guess I should follow…” eventually he caught up with Beleth who is merely walking in silence. He decided to be straightforward “so have you rescued my sister?” all he got in return is more silence he kissed his teeth in annoyance. “I don’t know why I am even here…” as he spoke Beleth turned to him. “Deep down you know I rescued your sister hence why you are here.” Martin was about to respond he still did not believe he rescued her, his heart hurts too much, he knows how violent the black bulls are to mutants and he has seen what happens to those who go against them. “You lie! there is no way you could of assaulted a gang base!” Beleth merely shrugged in return without saying another word. Martin clenched his hands, he feels frustrated, Beleth is leading him around like a dog. He grabbed his shoulder, soon as he touched it Beleth flicked around and grabbed his wrist tightly. “Stop being silly and follow.” Beleth said flatly. He then released his wrist, Martin rubbed it slightly he could see it’s clearly bruised. Grimacing he now followed in silence, Beleth lead him through the corridor they soon reached double doors a his rescuer opened them a large hall greeted them.

It was filled with empty chairs but in the middle of the hall he saw her, his sister smiling and talking with Beleth’s companion. Martin felt his eyes watering he ran over almost tripping over the chairs, the weight in his heart now gone, his legs felt light he cried out. “Lucia! Lucia! You are safe!” at the mention her of name Lucia perked up, she jumped up from her seat and ran straight into his arms. He held her tightly as she began crying over his shoulder. He stroked her head “you are safe….thank goodness…” Lucia sniffed and stepped back slightly “are you alright? The black bulls did not harm you?” Martin looked over to Beleth and gave him a look. “What’s the catch?”

His “rescuer” smirked as he walked over “smart boy.” Martin raised his eyebrow at such a statement “boy? You don’t look much older than I am.” Beleth shrugged “considering you think both me and Seasha to be at least major mutants have you considered that we are not exactly normal?” He looked down slightly as Beleth mentioned major mutant. It’s also clear both of them are also witches as well, bringing his head up he asked. “So, you might be extremely old, so what? What does that have to do with me and my sister?” he clenched his sister shoulder slightly to let him know he is worried it’s a signal he taught her. “What if you don’t get what you want from us? Will you kill us?” at the mention possibly dying Lucia prosted “No! They won’t do that! They gave me hot food and… Seasha…” Lucia looked over slightly to the female.

Martin disliked staring at Beleth’s companion, just meeting her gaze caused the hairs of his body to stand on end. “We can’t trust them Lucia, the way Beleth kills its…” His sister took another step back breaking his grip to his shock. “Martin just listen! Where else will we go? We can’t go home, you punched a black bull as well! There are witnesses! Let’s just listen to what they have to say.” he narrowed his eyes at his sister, he wondered what sort of nonsense they filled her head with in the time they had her.

He bought his vision back to Beleth who took a seat next to Seasha, he then gestured to the chair in front of him. “How about you have a seat Martin and at least hear what I have to say?” Martin gave his sister a look to show his displeasure at most she looked away not meeting his gaze. He sighed slightly and took the seat, Lucia sat next to him. He rubbed his neck “so what do you have to say? It better be good or I will leave with my sister.” Beleth leaned back in his chair slightly “I want to start a gang and obtain one of the eight seats.”

When he heard Beleth want’s to start a gang such an offer did not surprise him but the mention of the eight seats caused his eyes to bulge out. He stammered “T-that’s i-impossible! Are you mad!” In return Beleth narrowed his eyes at him “I am serious.” he said flatly. Martin rummaged his head in frustration, the person before him is insane, there is no way he could get anywhere near one of the eight seats or even possibly deal with the black bulls to become prominent. He got up from his chair “we are leaving, now.” Lucia looked up to him “Mar-” before she could utter a word, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her up from the chair. “No arguments we are leaving.” He began pulling Lucia slightly he then heard Beleth speak out again. “Are you going to give up like your mother? Run away from your problems?”

At the mere mention of his mother he let go of his sister’s wrist he faced Beleth, he felt the anger building around his eyes. His fists clenching in fury “You dare!” Martin shouted. Beleth remain seated, he then casually rested his leg on his knee. “I dare Martin because it’s the truth. Walking around the fourth ring I have found that everyone here is content with the meager scrapings the black bulls are feeding them. Personally I find it repulsive.” Martin ground his teeth and strode towards Beleth. “I am nothing like my mother! I don’t care what plan you are enacting in that head of yours! I will focus on keeping my sister safe!” at the mention of keeping his sister safe Beleth vanished from his chair in a wave of darkness to his horror he then heard a high pitched yelp.

He turned to see Beleth holding a knife at Lucia’s neck, Martin roared in anger he charged towards Beleth who inched the knife closer to her skin causing him to halt in his tracks. His “rescuer” began speaking flatly. “Tell me Martin how will you save your sister in this situation? What will happen when you walk out of those doors? The black bulls will hound you to the end of your days. At most you will be killed and thrown into a ditch and you sister will be taken and sold off to a crime lord for him to do… whatever with. So I will save you the trouble and give both of you clean deaths so you don’t suffer and I will find someone else to work with.” Martin clenched his hands his nails digging into his skin. “So no speech about the benefits of joining you? How we are going to change things when you get into power?” Beleth nodded in return. “Martin do I seem like those people? If I was in your position to help my family I would do it without hesitation.” he could not help but laugh hearing that. “You? Family!? I hear you talk about it a lot but I doubt you even have one! I bet… your mother abandoned you… left you on the road and you are now bitter at the world!”

At the mention of family for a moment Martin thought he saw a flicker of sadness and confusion mixed together play across Beleth’s face he then chuckled. “I don’t have a mother, or father either but I do have a family. One that I love dearly and I would do anything for them even if I get nothing in return. It frustrates a certain someone to no end. I guess it still does despite him being….different. In the end we are all different….now I am not here to talk about my family but I am giving you an opportunity. Look into these eyes that are dark like the void of space. What do you see?” For some reason he looked into Beleth’s eyes he stared into them it was like he almost fell into a trance he felt a mix of emotions exploding in his chest. Loss, pain, anguish, joy and even loneliness. Even feeling all of that he could see feel the murderous intent, the ruthlessness to see his goal met and in that moment he knew that if he refused he would merely kill them and find others he could work with. He is trapped in his plot whether he likes it or not. For now he has to agree at least to keep his sister safe and at some point try and run away.

He wrenched his eyes away he gave a heavy sigh “fine...I will work with you…” soon as he agreed he released Lucia who ran towards him. Beleth then rubbed his neck “good, it would be a shame to kill you. Now we have a lot of work to do.” At the mention of work Martin felt his heart constricting like a knot he wondered what exactly has he has gotten himself into.

She laughed with the general as he drank another glass of wine, each dinner she has been increasing the dosage and it’s even gotten to the point that Leon takes a bottle back to share with his men. The most pleasant thing about all of this as the dosage went up Isabella found she could actually start enjoying her meals. Looking over to the the general who is smiling ear to ear she said “since my investment I hear you are able to get additional equipment?” “Yes!” Leon exclaimed “your investments have been helpful in securing more weaponry and general gear for the PDF and I also have another piece of good news.” Isabella raised her eyebrow at the mention of good news, the way he said it it’s clear enough it’s something that she does not know. She put on a cheerful smile “good news? Please do tell.”

The head of the PDF nodded “right I found another investor, I can’t exactly reveal who at the moment but they are eager to support the PDF just like you.” at the mention of another noble wanting to support the PDF Isabella wanted to bite her lip. Leon needs to focus on her alone if she pressed too hard for information it might arouse suspicion. “I see, In that case the PDF growing strong might become reality. Once the deal is finalized it would be nice to see who this benefactor is.” Leon smiled “of course! Still I have to keep things confidential till then.” Isabella returned his smile “very well, I can’t wait to meet this potential new partner when the time comes.” After speaking she took a bite out of her food her mind turning over and trying to piece who this new partner is.

Thinking on the subject caused the meat to taste like ash in her mouth, she disliked unknowns and more than anything nobles dislike competition.

He watched Martin trace the knife movement in the air, he was surprised how diligent he was in his training, even Lucia seems mesmerized with his movements. Asriel then felt someone poking him on the cheek he frowned “what is it Seasha?” The daemon smiled “so are you going to ask him? Truly? Don’t think I don’t know.” “I am going to ask him, there is no harm in it.” he intoned. The neverborn chuckled “he will refuse, he already knows that you are going to ask him and I feel his answer already.” at the mention that he already knows he bought his gaze to the daemonhost “already knows? What do you mean?” Seasha gestured to the hall doors “how about we talk in private?”

Asriel sighed and rose from his seat he called out to Martin “keep practicing I need to talk with Seasha!” his movements stopped for a moment in order to give a curt nod. He then looked down to the daemon “right come then.” she rose from her seat still holding her grin they both walked to the hall doors and entered the dark hall. Asriel made sure to close the door behind him and listened carefully to check whether Martin or Lucia is at the door eavesdropping. He then nodded “what exactly do you mean by what you said before?” Seasha yawned slightly “I will be plain through me is how our master is keeping an eye on you.”

For some reason hearing that piece of information did not surprise him but overall he did not care for the daemon’s opinion. “I will still ask him.” “his answer will be no.” Seasha said firmly. He laughed slightly as the daemon spoke firmly it’s clear enough she is enjoying the body and does not wish to leave it. He is sure if he talks with Adelram he would be able to convince him to forgive Isira. “Tell me Seasha are you afraid to go back to the warp?” She snarled at him slightly in return “without me you will be bored! Is that what you want!?” Asriel frowned and crossed his arms “then I will be bored, Isira deserves the opportunity to apologize. I will find some other way to kill time.”

The neverborn shook her head “I can see why our lord said you are difficult... I thought he would fix that…” “fix what?” Asriel said in confusion. The term fix vexed him slightly he did not know why he pressed further “fix what Seasha?” The daemon reached over and placed her hand on his heart. “Making your heart as black as his. Seems it did not entirely work but….” she leaned in closer and whispered into his ear “how sure are you that what you feel and think is real?” she then leaned back “anyway I should not speak too much I will get in trouble.”

In reaction Asriel touched his heart, he could still feel that smoldering ember is still there the daemon is saying his lord is not interested he has his answer so he should smother it now completely but he couldn’t. Recalling the conversation with Martin he is in the position to aid Isira, despite how much they dislike each other she deserves the opportunity. He knows that you don’t have to like your family members in order to help them. He leveled his gaze at the daemon “I don’t know what you are trying to do in order to distract me. Know this Seasha I will ask him. I have decided.” in return the neverborn groaned in annoyance “I told you our master is not interested! You should ca-” before she could say more the words died on her throat.

She began clenching her neck gasping for air, black veins pulsed on her skin, Asriel rushed over before he could reach for Seasha like lightning she slapped his hands away. “Leave me!” she yelped. The neverborn began steadying her breathing as she spoke “l-look a-at him trying to protect his secrets...? Or is it to protect you? I never know truly with you mortals but you are fun to watch…” Asriel stared at the neverborn her words confusing him “what sort of secrets? To protect me from what?” “It’s nothing….on your request? He will think about it…” Seasha then walked back into the hall without another word passing between them.

Alone in the darkness for some reason her words worried him slightly he knows better than to believe the words of a daemon but when it counts they will also use the truth to get what they want.

He gazed at the orb that shone with a brilliant pink light, the orb glowing in such a fashion shows that Isabella is well but he did not hold the orb to think of Isabella but of someone else. Adelram looked over to Salvador who is eating as always it’s been years since he last felt worry. The sense of being anxious died the moment he stepped into the palace but now it came back in raging cascades. The notion of not being sure or second guessing his decisions.

No matter what happens, no matter how hard he tries it always happens with him. Always him. “Tell me Salvador is Asriel kind?” Salvador looked up to him and swallowed his eyes showing clear confusion with his question “I think so. Why do you ask master?” “I disagree his heart is black Salvador, it should be black like his eyes.” he quickly retorted, Salvador scratched his head “hmmm, I think he cares for people in his own way. Brother has always been like that.” Adelram held the orb more tightly “really? I watch him now and I expect him to be more ruthless. To drag the fourth ring into the pit of darkness. This plan he is enacting is too...mundane? It won’t please the dark prince either...” playing with the orb in his hand he thought on Isabella things are going well with the PDF general. There might be a possibility where Isabella might out do Asriel a concept he can’t believe.

He sighed “he should be more ruthless, drowning the fourth ring in excess a-” Salvador whined slightly “he is not like that.” Adelram lowered the orb “he is. The eight years we were together I have seen it. He did anything for me, killed, tortured, maimed and even laughed at the suffering at others but now? Now he wants to restore Isira? Why? What caused this to happen?” “maybe it’s because he is back home?” said Salvador. “No it can’t be that.” he rose from his throne. “Not something that simple…”

For some reason Adelram felt a flicker of anger or annoyance not at Salvador specifically but there is a possibility that something went wrong with the restoration process. When Asriel came back to him he knew he would be slightly different what his father did to him is still present on some level. He recalled their agreement to bring entropy to the galaxy perhaps back then he was just agreeing with him because it made him happy?

Adelram bought up the orb again “maybe I should call him back? To prevent the daemon saying something…” he looked at salvador again “tell me Salvador why would Asriel want Isira restored despite the fact he hates her? Asking for such a thing is questioning my decision.” Salvador blinked at him in confusion “Asriel is not a hateful person not really. Well I don’t think so…also I don’t think he wants to question you. He cares a lot about all us.”

Adelram grumbled slightly no one questions him anymore, everyone is sure on the path of entropy but as always no matter what happens despite everything they have been through he is questioning his decision. He needs to probe another mind on this matter he closed his eyes and sent out a message that he wants to see them. Adelram then sat back on his throne and waited, Salvador merely went back to eating clearly being able to tell he is no longer in a mood for conversation.

Eventually the doors to his chambers opened revealing Marthas he strode forward and bowed slightly “is something wrong?” Adelram nodded “what do you think of Asriel? How he is now?” Marthas raised his eyebrow at his question he then stroked his chin “well...he is the same as always really.” “He can’t be! It’s no-” Adelram clenched his mouth shut before he finished his sentence. He took a deep breath “he wants to restore Isira, you know he is like...me now. Why would he want such a thing? I gave him a companion that aids him in dealing with the emptiness that we all feel but he...” In return to his words Marthas shrugged “one thing you should know he does not put himself before others. That’s a fact that has not changed in the slightest, while I was… struggling with the changes he advised me. While I thought he was spying he was doing it out of his on will to aid me since in a manner of speaking thinking back on it he was worried you were going to kill me.” Marthas’ words made him recall Asriel’s request not to kill Marthas but the chief difference is that he likes Marthas but hates Isira.

He shook his head “your answer does not satisfy me.” “you are looking for an answer? What sort of answer?” said Marthas. Adelram sighed “I expected more from Asriel’s plot on Dolwine. Plus he wants to convince me to restore Isira.” Marthas folded his arms “what plot is he hatching on the planet?” Adelram leaned back in his seat “he is fostering a mutant rebellion through forming a gang and in turn using their resentment to push back against the people musing them.” “That definitely sounds like him. He would do something like that.” Adelram clenched his hands hearing that confirmation “I expected him to foster a cult of excess where all boundaries are explored and all sense of order is broken down! So People could find joy in the lives considering the state of the fourth ring!” Marthas sighed in response “that does not sound like him at all.”

Adelram was about to retort until he heard a female voice calling out “no it doesn't!” his eyes locked to the doors and he saw his father’s creature prancing into the chamber grinning. She flicked her white hair “if it was the old him you would have got what you wanted.” Marthas looked down to her “be careful what you say Sitri do you wish to end up like Naberius?” Sitri shrugged “and here I was bringing news that the great one broke his silence.” Adelram scoffed “and? You know I find it annoying how you pop up at the most convenient times. Perhaps I should of killed you as well?” Adelram charged his hand with psychic energy and pointed at his father’s creature, in return all she gave is a mocking bow “even if I can answer your question?”

Adelram felt his black heart twitch slightly he wanted to know, it’s convenient father is speaking now and if he is something is going to happen. “Speak Sitri, tell me what is your answer?” Sitri stood up right “it’s simple your father gave you what you wanted but you turned it away because you did not like the form it took. Yet even now you have problems with your...own work.” Adelram felt fury surging into his body “shut up. Don’t speak another word.” “why? It’s the truth isn’t it!” Sitir exclaimed. Marthas coughed “how about we hear that message?” Sitri nodded “right, the great one says that your plan on Dolwine is going to fail and you might as well attack now while you have the chance.”

For some reason the news did not cause him to worry but instead bought a sense of ease “may I ask why?” Sitri tapped her chin “The one Asriel is working with is going to betray him and Isabella is doing well the great one approves but the PDF general is going to deliver her undoing to a very special host. In a manner of speaking it’s just a poor twist of fate. Perhaps if Asriel picked another plan this could be salvaged.” Getting information surrounding why the plan will fail caused the anxiousness to vanish entirely, Adelram rose and looked at Marthas. “Send Izel to me. We will be retrieving the both of them. Also Marshal the warband we are making a quick sweep through the planet to take as many slaves as we can and then we will leave.” Marthas merely bowed in silence and left the chamber to complete his orders.

He then looked upon Sitri “tell father I thank him for the news and I appreciate that you shared his wisdom with me. I will also talk with Asriel.” Sitri gave a bow “I am but a humble messenger my lord.” Sitri turned and left his chamber without another word. Salvador then looked up to him as he almost finished his food “so are we going down to the planet together?” Adelram sighed “not exactly.”

The dinner hall is set and ready, Belaris waited for the head of the PDF in his experience when fighting the heretic they normally seek out the head of the military on the planet. To strip away defences for their masters to easily attack the planet it’s always the same plan and to be sure he personally invited the general of the PDF for a meal and made a heavy investment into their infrastructure. Finally hearing a knock at the dining hall doors he called out “you may enter!”

As the doors creaked open slowly he saw Fahim escort the general into the dining hall he could see him holding a bottle of wine. As they approached the priest gestured to the head of the PDF “This is General Leon my lord.” Leon stepped forward and reached out his hand “it’s good to meet you. When I got word of your investment I was eager to meet you.” Belaris reached out and grasped the general’s hand “As was I, it is good to see soldiers eager to do the emperor’s work. I am Belaris lord of his household.” Belaris grasped the general’s hand tightly they shook one more time before letting go. “Now I am sure you are eager to eat how about we take our seats?” he gestured to the chair Leon moved to sit down and placed the wine bottle on the table Belaris gave Fahim a look he merely nodded and stood at the door.

The inquisitor then made his way to his chair and sat down, he pulled off the cover off his meal in turn the general did the same. Belaris reached for the cutlery and began eating but made sure to keep and eye on the general as he also began eating. One thing he noticed right away is that the general is not enjoying his food which is odd considering what they are eating is the best they can get on the planet. It’s not a case of slightly disliking the food it’s almost bordering on outright disgust.

Belaris coughed to bring the general’s attention “how about we have some wine?” at the mention of wine the general gestured to the bottle he bought. “Belaris you must try this vintage!” the clear excitement concerned him he had various brands available but he personally bought his own. On his salary he would not be able to buy wine that the nobles of Dolwine normally enjoy. “I see where did you get it general?” Leon smiled “well..there is another partner that has invested. The one I am currently working with has great cooks and allows me to take a bottle or two after dinner. You don’t know how happy it's made me to find people who wish to invest in the protection of mankind.” at the mention at another partner he knew that he would have to investigate who the general has been talking to. Belaris looked at the wine “may I have a taste?” “of course! I bought it to share with you.” the general then went to work pouring the wine into the glasses.

Once he was done he took a sip from his own glass his cheeks flushed as he tasted the beverage. Belaris looked down to his own glass for some reason he disliked the aroma and even the colour. He does not know whether it is in instinct or just good practice he readied his mental defences and spoke words of warding within his mind. He felt his flesh pulse slightly as the power infused his body he then slowly picked up the glass and took a sip.

Soon as the wine touched his tongue his body convulsed in response, he tried to keep his face neutral as he took the sip. The wine then trailed down his throat and he felt it, the wards expelling in the taint, burning it out. Whatever is in this connection is corruption, the darkness that seeks to tear the god-emperor’s imperium apart. Belaris placed the wine glass back on the table, he creased his brow slightly wondering if the wards would of held if he took a mouthful.

He leveled his gaze at the general who is happily drinking a beverage that is planting darkness within his body, he wondered how many times has he done this in his line of work. Questioning those who unknowingly drink from the cup of corruption? He eyed Fahim he gave him a coded blink his face showed a small measure of surprise but kept up the facade that nothing is wrong.

The priest slowly approached the table, in response Leon looked up to the priest “is something wrong?” Belaris tried to not sigh it’s unfortunate that this has to be done but in the end heretics always aim for the good and unsuspecting. He reached into his pocket and placed something on the table as his hand moved away the general looked at it and all colour drained from his face.

His hands trembled, all the joy that came from the wine faded away in that instant the overwhelming power of the seal he just placed on the table is now consuming his mind. Belaris looked at his inquisitorial rosette and then up to the General, Fahim is now moving behind his seat looking down at the head of the PDF Despite the priest looming over him the general merely held his gaze at the rosette. Belaris spoke his voice flat “now general I want to ask some questions…”

lliu wrote:
Nice the sentIment is there. Great job as always!

Late response but thanks! I was recently discussing the story with a mate who felt that the characters were becoming... too "ideal"? The whole point of slaanesh is reaching for that ideal not obtaining it. Reading over some of the chapters again I think I got it and a terrible idea spawned within in my head. I was playing the idea but was not sure whether to commit to it hence I left a few threads. Now? I am. I hope you enjoy what I am planning.

Chapter 36
She paced the manor hall frantically it’s been a few days since she last seen Leon, the problem is that she lost all contact. Even probing around the PDF unveils nothing it’s like a ghost snatched him away. Isabella recalled their last conversation about meeting a new partner the fact he strangely vanished a few days afterward she wondered who did he exactly meet that has the power to erase a PDF general? As she became lost in her thoughts she heard las-shots and shouting. Her heart dropped like a lead weight one of her servant’s came rushing through the door panting while they held a las-pistol. Their eyes met and no words had to be uttered they have been discovered. There is only one person who could have done this she recalled the familiar faces namely the priest from Athor. That group must of been the unknown partner.

She bit her thumb to the point it bled not at the prospect of being captured and tortured by a possible inquisitor but the fact she failed. Isabella did not want to greet her lord with failure, she knew full well the price of failure. To be forgotten and discarded like a cheap tool “I won’t share is Camilla or Isira’s fate….” she took a deep breath and approached her servant. “Do you have a spare las-pistol?” her thrall nodded and went to his belt and handed her the weapon. She gripped it “how many are there?” her thrall gulped “a whole squad of scions led by a large priest wielding a thunder-hammer.” The news caused her to sigh there is no way they will win. At least she wanted to die than be captured by the agents of the throne. Before she could think further the door suddenly flew open shattering into splinters. The shockwave threw Isabella and her servant to the ground.

She looked up to see the large priest wielding a hammer surrounded by scions they stepped into the room as they looked around she could see the utter contempt in his gaze. He pointed his weapon at her “my superior wishes to ask you a few questions Lady Isabella.” “so you just barge into someone’s mansion wielding weapons and at the same time killing their servants?” The priest roared at her in return “you are a heretic! An abominable heathen that has sold their soul! Be glad that we do not kill you now!” her servant in return quickly got to their feet and charged at the priest in a swift motion he bought his hammer down crushing the head of her thrall.

As his body collapsed to the ground Isabella looked to her las-pistol she brought it to her head “I will not be taken by you.” the priest and scions rushed forward to stop her. As her finger slowly moved to the trigger a sickly wet sound played at the back of her mind. It held her finger in place the sound caused the hairs on her body to stand on end. She could also see the inquisitorial retinue has also frozen in their tracks. They could hear what she is hearing, they could also feel what she is feeling.

The air in the room also started to slowly change it was a kind of sickly sweet smell it almost caused her to forget that she was about to be taken away. The smell began rapidly increasing as suddenly a pink ball formed in the middle of the room. It began expanding until it eventually burst into a swirling pink vortex and what stepped out caused a measure of shock and joy. Their feet thundered on the floor as they entered the room. The hooded Astartes readied his spiked weapon the mist from it bellowed as he pointed it at the retinue “mortals, you will scream for me. Let me hear your song.”

The priest upon seeing what was before him barked “fire now!” like a flash the Astartes moved across the room as he stepped into the middle of them he merely whirled his weapon. A gush of blood erupted from the broken bodies as the spiked weapon smashed the scions asunder. They did not even have the chance to fire their weapons. The priest looked upon his fellows in horror he charged reading his weapon crying out praises to the emperor. The Astartes turned, his hand snapped out and grabbed the priests throat stopping his assault.

He bought the priests gaze to his own as he hefted him up from the ground. “You cry praises to a god that can’t even hear you. But mine will that is the difference... so let her hear you. Know that is was Marthas that sent you into the gullet of the true god.” He dropped his weapon and bought his hand over the priest’s head and squeezed slowly. He yelped in his grip, which soon turned into muffled screams as his head was slowly crushed.

Isabella watched Marthas drop the body as gore slinked down his hands he walked over and offered his hand. She grasped it the warm blood creasing her hands it felt nice but a mix of fear played in her heart she spoke in almost a squeak as the Astartes helped her up “has he sent you to kill me?” “no, go through the portal you are returning to the ship.” Isabella looked at the swirling vortex he did not exactly answer her question but the fact he is now here it’s clear enough that her lord is aborting their current plan.


She slowly approached the portal she did not want to meet her lord with failure but he wants her to return to the ship. Before she could step through more Astartes poured out the portal weapons held in their hands. Isabella turned her head back slightly to Marthas “so he is sending the Astartes….failure it is then..” Marths merely shrugged “he wants you to return to the ship he did not say more than that. The time of mortals is over we will take what we need and leave.” Isabella faced the portal again and bit her lip in annoyance, in silence she stepped through.


Asriel looked upon the gathered people they are starting to make small waves people are coming around to his idea of making the fourth ring for the mutants. He spotted Martin talking with his sister he could clearly see he is still unformattable with the situation. In the end it doesn't matter he is stuck with him he knows this is his only path. He looked over to the daemonhost since their conversation from before she spoke little he guessed that she said something she was not meant to. Overall her time is limited she knows this once he convinces Adelram to restore Isira the ember would die and sputter out.

He was about to clap to get everyone’s attention but stopped he felt a tingle on his nose as a sweet smell enveloped his nostrils. The hairs of his body stood on end and right away he could feel it sorcery. In the middle of the room a small pink ball manifested it then erupted into a vortex. Asriel cursed he wondered what Adelram is doing, out of the portal stepped out Izel along with some Astartes before he could say anything they leveled their weapons and began killing everyone in the room.

He watched Martin reach for Lucia in shock before both of them were evaporated by sorcery and Astartes weaponry. It did not take any more than several heartbeats for the carnage to end. He stared at the blood and pieces of meat on the floor he strode towards Izel in annoyance and pointed “what’s the big idea!? You ruined everything!” the sorcerer looked down at him the icon on his choker dangling with the movement. “Adelram is disappointed so I erased his displeasure. I personally wanted to capture at least a few of them for my experiments but orders.” at the mention of displeasure he took a step back in shock “w-what did I do wrong!? The plan was going smoothly!” Seasha finally approached “the issue is the plan is boring. The power and means you have you fingertips and you go for a mundane plan like this?” “shut up daemon! I did not ask you!” shouted Asriel, he bought his gaze to Izel who casually shrugged “Adelram wants to talk to you. Right now he is sending down forces to take as many slaves as possible then we are leaving. At the end of the day we need it considering everyone has burnt through my old warband. So be a good servant and do as he asks. Honestly there is a number of things I could of suggested to get things going with your plot but we don’t have time.” Izel talking in such a manner annoyed him it even angered him. What gives him the right to assume he understands the dark prince when he just joined?

For some reason the sensation felt odd he was worried at what Adelram found displeasure with but what did he exactly expect from him? Asriel narrowed his eyes “so tell me Izel what did our lord expect? What would you have done?” The sorcerer gazed at the dead bodies he sighed heavily “ if you want to know for one you should of eased them in with things they could not normally get. Like food, clean water in abundance if you worked with Isabella I am sure you could of obtained it. After that you should of picked out those who are…. open to the wider galaxy and the gods and work from there. Show them what they are missing and what that they don’t understand and twist them from there.” Asriel listened and the plan sounded something like Isira would do. But in his experience people fight better and serve better if you remind them of the things they care for. “I can see your point. Yet I was eve-” Izel chuckled “eventually? You should of been thinking to show them the dark prince from the start. They may not experience the glorious splendor I have seen but there are many ways for people to get started. Talking with you I think you are quite narrow minded Asriel. So focused on one thing but never looking at it from different angles. Some would say you are a boring individual I do wonder what Adelram sees in you?” the sorcerer sighed “well that’s enough I have work to do. Go through the portal with the daemon.”

Asriel looked at the portal his heart twisting wondering what has caused this sudden reaction. He gestured to the daemonhost “let’s go.” She folded her arms as she casually walked into the portal vanishing into the swirling vortex. Before he stepped in he gave Izel one look. At most the sorcerer is ignoring him and ordering the Astartes Asriel ground his teeth slightly and faced the portal. He scratched his head in annoyance and walked into the swirling vortex.

Looking around the fourth ring she watched meteors crashing downwards upon the city her eyes went wide. “Those aren’t meteors….” Michael grabbed her arm “we have to get back to the inquisitor! Larrisa, come on!” Micheal’s shouting bought her to attention. She drew her bolt pistol from her belt. “Right let’s go!” As they ran through the streets she could see mutants and gang members running for their lives she cursed Larissa cared nothing for the mutants dying it’s the innocents she is worried about. They had no idea this attack is coming and it would take time for the Astra Militarum to eventually respond.

If the enemy is who she thinks it is the PDF won’t hold they don’t have even the means to defend themselves properly due to the poor investment in the PDF force. She gripped her bolt pistol tightly they eventually made a turn as the came upon the street what she saw horrified her. Heretic Astartes pulling people by the hair as they scream for their lives. Michael gasped “turn around!” but it was too late their eyes met one specifically stared at them, they wore an open black robe mixed with their black and pink power armour but the most significant thing about them is the metal choker and the rune.

She has seen it many times in stopping rituals preventing the great enemy materialising and whenever she looks upon said symbols of the arch enemy her stomach turns. The Astartes shouted the vox of their helmet made his voice pur somewhat “agents of the throne how interesting!” Larissa’s eyes went wide she looked at Michael “how did he know that!?” as the heretic spoke Michael began sweating heavily “Larissa, run I will hold him as long as I can.” “what do you me run!? I can’t leave you against them!” Michael shouted “just run!” before she could say anything further she heard the Astartes voice again but this time it was really close “it’s too late….” Larissa finally noticed the shadow looming over them she looked up and she saw the heretic staring down at them. Now being up close she felt her hands trembling on the handle of her bolt pistol. Sweat streamed down her body, Michael was about to say something but his head exploded in a burst of pink light. As his body collapsed to the ground she looked down to his lifeless corpse. In that moment she turned and ran for her life panting aggressively she had to escape that monster.

As she took a few steps she found that she could not longer move her body her hands spasmed and dropped her bolt-pistol. She heard heavy footsteps behind her a part of her thought this could not be a witch she has seen witches before. She has even fought them and even seen Belaris take down an Astartes one, what she feels now, what she saw whoever this heretic is outstrips everything she has seen.

Soon the shadow loomed over again her teeth chittered in response, a sickly sweet smell soon began permeating her nose. The heretic walked around her and eventually they stood face to face. His voice came through his horned helmet “you will be coming with us.” The heretic reached over with his hand and grasped her hair. At the moment of him touching her hair the power holding her body vanished she screamed in his grip just like everyone else. “Let me go heretic! Curse you!” The heretic Astartes cocked his head slightly “this is actually somewhat enjoyable. I always looked down upon the third being so base in slave gathering but I can understand the appeal of doing it this way.”

He then began dragging her, she felt several threads of her hair tearing out she roared in frustration “Let me go!” the heretic ignored her and continued dragging her like an object. She knew of the stories of those taken by heretics and she refuses to to become like them. In a motion she open her mouth and began biting her tongue in reaction the Astartes wagged his finger. “Don’t do that.” as the words entered her ears she found herself releasing her grip on her tongue, Larissa could taste the blood the thought was in her head to bite her tongue but she couldn’t.

In the end all she could do is thrash and scream in the grip of the heretic who is most likely taking her to oblivion.


He stood with Isabella and Seasha at Adelram’s chambers doors as they arrived on the ship he could clearly tell most of the Astartes have deployed to gather as many slaves as they can before the imperium can respond. Asriel clenched his fists he wondered where he failed what could he have done different? He looked over to Isabella her face looked Ashen at the thought of possible failure. For some reason his hand reached out and grasped her shoulder, she looked down to his hand in surprise “Asriel do you remember our conversation from before?” at the mention of it he remembered when he had to check on everyone. He remembered their talk but at the same time he also recalled Caius’ words he moved his hand away from her shoulder and ground his teeth “I am not a rusty tool….” Isabella raised her eyebrow “rusty tool? Hmm any of us can become rusty at any given moment and I suspect what will happen now will change us for better or worse.” The daemon chuckled at Isabella’s words “why does she understand that fact better than you do? How interesting…” “shut up daemon!” spat Asriel. He focused on the door “let’s go in.”

Asriel pushed the doors open and walked in, Isabella and Seasha followed he saw Adelram seated on his throne, Salvador stood next to him upon entering his brother charged forward like a mad animal grasped him in a great hug. Asriel struggled to breathe “S-salvador p-put me down!” His bestial brother blinked and placed him on the ground smiling “it’s good to see that you are okay.” Asriel frowned “it’s not okay Salvador…” his brother titled his head in confusion “why?” Asriel was about to say something but instead Adelram called out “Salvador can you leave for a moment?” Asriel watched Salvador nod and walked out of the room. As he left an ill thought struck Asriel, Adelram has been with Salvador a lot lately, how many times has he been fed the meat of Astartes?

As Adelram came into full view after his brother left Isabella dropped to one knee. Asriel folded his arms he is not going to bow their relationship is different. Adelram pointed at him “kneel Asriel.” At the mention of kneeling Asriel’s eyes went wide slowly he got to one knee. Seasha is merely smiling in joy as he lowered himself. Adelram then bought his gaze to Isabella “you did what you can it’s merely ill fortune that caused your failure. So you may leave.” at the mention of forgiveness Isabella bowed her head “thank you my lord I will endeavour to try harder next time.” She rose, Asriel could see she no longer looked drained but full of vigour she left without another word smiling ear to ear.

He sighed and looked up to Adelram “so what have I exactly done wrong?” his lord got up from his throne and walked towards him he began pacing around him staring at how one looks at a lab animal. “So you decided to foster a mutant rebellion. So where does the entropy and excess come into play?” he could not help curl his lip slightly in annoyance “Adelram that would come after everyone was on board!” Adelram frowned “how do you know that? If you do not introduce them to the delicacies of the dark prince from the start how sure are you that they are going to take it midway? For example if their lives slowly become better as you gain more power what reason would they have to follow the dark prince? What reason would they have to let go of all boundaries?” his words caused Asriel to look down in almost shame. “My lord I just wanted you to be happy...you would have a whole army t-” his lord stopped before him “look up” he did as he bade. “Asriel do I look happy to you?” he stared at Adelram’s face at most he see’s displeasure and confusion. “You are displeased and confused…” said Asriel.

Adelram nodded “I expected more still what concerns me even more is your request.” he knew that Adelram would get to this eventually considering he used the daemonhost to spy on him. “I think she deserves the chance to be free Adelram.” as his words passed his lips his lord’s confusion began increasing “why? Why do you want her back? Your heart is cold like ice, black as the void of space. You should care for nothing save excess and serving me.” Asriel grasped his shirt the place where his heart is he could still feel the ember there. “My lord...you said you would think about it what is your decision?” as he spoke Adelram wiped his hands down his face “I have thought about it. Would me bringing back someone you hated make you feel better?” Asriel did not know how to answer that question he scratched his head “I...don’t know….”

Seasha finally spoke up “perhaps he is defective?” the daemon speaking caused Adelram’s face to turn into the fixture of fury he pointed at her. “Be silent daemon!” Seasha was about to say something but closed her mouth. His lord took a deep breath and knelt he grabbed his shoulder “I don’t know what you are feeling but forget Isira. She made her choice.” Asirel looked up to Adelram for some reason that answer did not satisfy him “my lord what of Lily then? She was not pleased to see you either. Yet I saw you make moves to calm her how come you did not do the same for Isira? Per-” as he retorted Adelram grasped his shoulder tightly he chuckled “look at you...doing it again...she was…..” “different? Why is that the case? If you gave Lily a chance Isira deserves a chance to make her case.” Asriel said firmly.

He watched his lord’s face break down into almost disbelief “why are you talking like this Asriel? You were happy before when I restored you. We agreed what we wanted to do and my decision before was a part of that. Isira did not want to a part of my vision. I-” “you are making excuses I know you by now. I bet you didn't even explain what you were planning or what you are going to do.” Asriel wondered why he is fighting his lord on such a point the flame within his heart began growing instead of sputtering embers it slowly started to become a flame. He felt alert, aware even which was strange his words were clearly like a dagger in his lord’s heart. There was a strange silence for a moment, the grip on his shoulder slowly vanished. “Asriel, I have made my decision…” his lord removed his hand and stood up he approached Seasha who was now looking at him in confusion. “We had a deal! You are not really going to do it!?” she hissed.

Before she could say anything further his lord grasped her head with both hands the motion caused the daemon to began clawing and trashing trying to get him off. Her nails turned to talons and all Asriel could hear is muffled screams what surprised him further is that Adelram looked so serene in this moment. A single heartbeat passed as Adelram crushed the daemon’s head in his hands blood and brain matter streamed down his hands. Seasha, no Isira’s body collpased to the floor. His master then looked upon him blood flaking his cheek “so, Asriel do you feel anything? Do you care?”

Looking at Isira’s lifeless corpse he thought the flame would vanish but instead it turned into a smoldering inferno. What just happened is wrong, he took away her chance to return. She was desperate to return to seek forgiveness. Only one word passed his lips “why?” the utterance of the word caused Adelram to step back in shock it slowly turned into anger “get out! Now! Just get out!” his anger caused Asriel to flinch he slowly got up and left the chamber without another word.

As he exited the chamber he saw Salvador and Isabella waiting for him. He looked up to his brother “I think I am in trouble.” Salvador frowned “he will forgive you I am sure!” Asriel shook his head “this is different. He seems genuinely hurt for some reason. Where did I go wrong?” he bought his gaze to Isabella who is no longer smiling “it seems it happened I have fallen to the wayside.” in turn Isabella creased her brow “what do you do? Where is…” Asriel pointed back to the door with his thumb “Adelram crushed her head. I don’t know what he expects from me though?” he shrugged “well it seems I have to figure something out to prevent myself from “rusting” away completely.” he walked past Isabella and Salvador without another word. Walking down the hall into darkness he passed by members of the strange new cult. The only thing he knew is that they are taking excess seriously to Adelram’s pleasure.

The fact they have not been deployed shows that the Astartes are likely grabbing what they need and leaving it should only be a few hours before they return. At most the people gathered are going to be used to fuel whatever excess goes on in an Astartes mind but the issue is that Adelram’s chief want to turn the planet to complete entropy has not been met. He won’t be satisfied with the haul of slaves, Asriel clenched his chest in annoyance the flame won’t die. Because of this feeling he has possibly ruined his relationship with his lord. He racked his brain thinking of a way to salvage the situation.

As he thought he spotted someone in the hallway he frowned “Sitri what is it?” if she has popped up she has something to say. The only time really when Naberius and Sitri show themselves if Lord Fulgrim wants something or seeks to deliver a message of a sort. She strode towards him smiling “look at you falling into the darkness over someone you hate but… that what makes you special. You try hard for those you “care” for. I do wonder how sure are you that what you are feeling now is real or not?” “what do you mean?” said Asriel while raising his eyebrow. “I mean how sure are you that your emotions are real?” her words caused him to narrow his eyes “what do you mean? Seasha spoke under a similar line is this related to why Adelram is upset?” she nodded to his question “yes, after all if you insert what you know and feel of someone into a husk you might expect them to act a certain way.” Asriel blinked, his mouth felt dry for some reason he shook his head “what are you saying?”

Sitri sighed “your memories are not real, your emotions are not real either what you are is simply a manifestation of a desperate Astartes covering his mistakes. Or do you think that the dark prince will take back something that was claimed and devoured by someone who is highly favoured such as the great one? Your state is the compromise the dark prince gave to poor Adelram...” Asriel felt numb the news caused his stomach to turn in almost disgust Adelram’s reaction before is slowly starting to make sense. In a manner of speaking he would know almost everything about him since it’s likely he has read his journal back to back several times.

But there is a problem he clenched his hands “Adelram expects me to completely cold so why is that not the case? I wanted to... save Isira from her state.” His words caused Sitri to blink in surprise “that’s what you say after you find out you are not real no anger? Accusations of betrayal? Maybe that’s why he is likes you so much? So stoic! So focused on your family, so boring at the same time….” Sitri walked over and placed her hand on his heart “that is real, the one thing that won’t die. That ravening madness that is unyielding despite everything that is thrown at you.” she moved her hand away and reached into her pocket she pulled out a vial containing a luminescent fluid. “A gift from the great one since your answer was satisfactory. I wonder what you will do with it? Now open your hand.” Asriel did as he bade he opened his hand as she placed the vial in his hand it felt strangely warm. He gripped it “what is it Sitri?” Sitri scratched her head “it’s the essence of a primarch or in other words their blood. I am sure you will be creative with it.” She then turned away humming and she vanished into the darkness of the corridoor

Asriel held the vial tightly he did wonder what he would do with such a thing. But a primarch has given something special to him and knowing Lord Fulgrim he expects great things as always. He stroked his chin as the flame burned in his heart he cares for everyone that’s a fact. A fact that will always remain despite whether he is real or not. He decided to return to his room to contemplate on how exactly he should move.

As he made his way to his room he walked in and sat on his desk he placed the vial on the table and pulled his drawer open containing all his journals even the first. He picked each of them out of the drawer and stacked them. His memories, who he is poured into those volumes. Staring at the journal and blood he let his mind run free. He has the essence of a primarch in his hands. Most would use it to empower themselves to ascend. But he is not like that, he knows this hence why lord Fulgrim gave him this special item.

Asriel flicked through his old journal entries the ones where he spent time with Ivan studying the ways of the dark prince and chaos. Reading through it again what surprised him is that Adelram’s idea of the galaxy is somewhat laced through Ivan’s teachings. The means of worship is through the lens of a word bearer trying to conform to worshipping a single god but there are a few good ideas. He reached to another drawer containing fresh journals and placed one in front of him. He got his pen ready and opened the first page and wrote out the title for his project. Once done he spoke it out loud “The Anguis project….” a strange smile played across his lips as he began writing away putting together ideas and discarding poor ones.

It’s been a few hours and the Astartes have returned with slaves as always they have been gathered at the docking bay. The prospect of fresh slaves did not please him the previous conversation with Asriel was still fresh in his mind. He was not even in a mood to speak with Salvador so he dismissed him to his room. Adelram creased his brow as he walked “he should not be like this...why? Why is he like this?” the scene where he crushed Isira’s skull replayed in his mind.

He saw his face, he could see the thought that he did something wrong, something contemptible. What puzzled him further he suddenly cares for someone he hates with every fiber of his being. Adelram took a deep breath “I will sort it out later. The slaves… focus on that…” Eventually he made his way to the docking bay and he saw them all the slaves that have been gathered from the surface of Dolwine.

Since he is the Lord of the warband he gets first pick as always, he strode to the crowd of people guarded by Astartes. Every single member of the warband is present they all looked at him eyes alight for him to hurry and choose. The hunger in their eyes to feed their excess caused him to smile, some measure of his displeasure with Asriel vanished with the thought. He bought his eyes to the humans huddling together in fear as he traced his eyes through the chattel he spotted one who was out of place. A young woman with freckles, short brown hair along with a fair skin tone.

She looked unbowed, fear did not bleed off her like the rest. Her aura captivated him, it took his breath away like a magnet he was pulled towards her as he stood over the female he could see the utter contempt in her eyes. He knelt “do you have a name?” in return she spat on his face the gesture caused a silence to grip the docking bay. The Astartes even stared at the woman in a mix of shock, anger or even horror. As the silence gripped everyone Adelram shouted “you are amazing!” he rose and grabbed her shirt and began dragging her to the hallway.

At he approached the corridor the bedlam started as his brothers pushed and shoved to take their slaves. He looked back to his chosen who is thrashing in his grip, her fire, her anger and defiance. He wanted to see what would happen when he changes and twists it? Another idea spawned in his mind “she could be an example for him!” excitement raged in his hearts. It’s rare when he feels like this but the prospect of working on this female elated him and at the same time it might push Asriel into the appropriate image. He wiped the spittle from his cheek with his other hand and grinned as another interesting thought entered his mind. “She could possibly be better than him!” even broaching the subject caused his hearts to jump.

All the frustration began bleeding away, the disbelief and the anger. His mind was consumed by the prospect of a companion who might be even more perfect.

Asriel readied his gauntlet on his arm it’s be awhile since he last used it he did not take it with him to Dolwine due to how out of place it would look same with the rusted blade on his back. He also packed all the necessary supplies in his backpack along with his journals. He chained the fresh journal to his belt and placed the vial of blood in a secured pouch he looked upon his room. “It might be a long time before I come back here…” he took a deep breath and left his room he walked towards the stairs leading to the lower levels there he could work in peace without anyone disturbing him.

It was odd when he came to this decision he thought he would feel more conflict but in the end in a manner of speaking this is what his lord wants. His role in this dysfunctional warband is to provide the things they would never think of. As always he will get no thanks for it by the time he is done but in the end this is the right path. Walking through the hallways he spotted a large familiar figure his old friend Marthas. He did not say anything but upon seeing his gear Marthas stopped “what are you doing Asriel?” Asriel held his movement and looked up to the apostle “if you trust me marthas I don’t need to explain anything but know what I am doing is a a means to improve the warband.” his friend merely shrugged “well good luck then.” he walked on without another word such an action did not cause any surprise for he knew that Marthas trusted him to do the right thing. “I am doing the right thing…” Asriel intoned.

He trudged forward with his large backpack he made his way to the steps leading to the lower levels. He looked upon the darkness leading downwards “I will provide the tools needed to fuel Adelram’s dream…” he took a step down, the first was not exactly easy but each step towards his goal came easier as the darkness consumed him.

Also I would like ask a question would you guys like a story that's focused on Belaris? My first army in 40k was a inquisitorial warband this story might not see the Iight of day in a long time. I am just playing with the idea at the moment. Just writing him it felt like I could do more with him.

As I said its just an idea at the moment.

 shinros wrote:
Also I would like ask a question would you guys like a story that's focused on Belaris? My first army in 40k was a inquisitorial warband this story might not see the Iight of day in a long time. I am just playing with the idea at the moment. Just writing him it felt like I could do more with him.

As I said its just an idea at the moment.

Sure! Anything is great!

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:
Also I would like ask a question would you guys like a story that's focused on Belaris? My first army in 40k was a inquisitorial warband this story might not see the Iight of day in a long time. I am just playing with the idea at the moment. Just writing him it felt like I could do more with him.

As I said its just an idea at the moment.

Sure! Anything is great!

Righteo I will draft up some ideas for the plot I am glad you are interested!

 shinros wrote:
Also I would like ask a question would you guys like a story that's focused on Belaris? My first army in 40k was a inquisitorial warband this story might not see the Iight of day in a long time. I am just playing with the idea at the moment. Just writing him it felt like I could do more with him.

As I said its just an idea at the moment.

Personally no because I find their story has been done to death a few times while the warband of slaanesh is more original but I don't see why you couldn't thread each story through the other. I'll be hoping for corruption the whole way .

On the story at hand I don't understand why adelram is trying to change asriel when he knows that asriel is all about family. I would think they should be rock solid bros at this point? like they always gonna be homies but they can do their own thing without worrying about favoritism but that's me personally I guess. I think the biggest heresy an author can do is make it so misunderstanding is the cause of issues. I do love the plants, the corruption of izel, and the way adelram was just like "feth it" and pulled everyone out, seems like he's learning from his mistakes. That's what I call character development!

 Dayknight wrote:

 shinros wrote:
Also I would like ask a question would you guys like a story that's focused on Belaris? My first army in 40k was a inquisitorial warband this story might not see the Iight of day in a long time. I am just playing with the idea at the moment. Just writing him it felt like I could do more with him.

As I said its just an idea at the moment.

Personally no because I find their story has been done to death a few times while the warband of slaanesh is more original but I don't see why you couldn't thread each story through the other. I'll be hoping for corruption the whole way .

On the story at hand I don't understand why adelram is trying to change asriel when he knows that asriel is all about family. I would think they should be rock solid bros at this point? like they always gonna be homies but they can do their own thing without worrying about favoritism but that's me personally I guess. I think the biggest heresy an author can do is make it so misunderstanding is the cause of issues. I do love the plants, the corruption of izel, and the way adelram was just like "feth it" and pulled everyone out, seems like he's learning from his mistakes. That's what I call character development!

Hmmm I could do that with the inquisitor story...I actually had some idea's as well with a certain character...

Now the situation with Asriel and Adelram here is the crux of it, at the end of the day he is one of the third and what are they obsessed with? Perfection even Adelram is not immune to it. Even Fabius is like this he will never finish his work because he will always find something wrong with it it's stated that's why Fulgrim loves him so much. When a member finds something they perceive as a "mistake" they have an intrinsic need to correct it. It's because they are bros that it's triggering him so much it's like if your best mate ever is doing something incredibly strange and unexpected but in this case we are dealing with insane heretics. He is not even that annoyed with Asriel's plan it's whole thing with Isira that's throwing him off and because of that event something similar could happen in the future again. Asriel wanting to cover Marthas was expected, him wanting to restore Isira was not expected since in Adelram's head she "rejected" the family.

But in Asriel's mind sometimes family members mess up and they deserve the chance to apologise, the only issue is that Adelram felt differently about it. Remember I stated in the story with Asriel their relationship is abusive? It's pretty abusive in my opinion but they just keep coming back to each other because well...they need each other in a sense. Both characters would not be in their current spots if they did not meet. Oh and you are right on the money about pulling everyone out.

Anyway another chapter is coming SOONish.

Chapter 37
He stared at the two corpses that are now covered with sheets, the Heretic Astartes attack was swift and deadly looking at the aftermath they were not looking for an engagement. The remaining PDF that were pure and did not drink from the cup of corruption was enough to keep the space marines from entering the first ring but the damage upon all the others was staggering. He looked around to see the Astra Militarum is now enforcing curfew and martial law.

It was his suggestion after approaching the lord general of the regiment but what pained him were the deaths of the two before him. Both of their heads have been crushed, one by clear sorcery and other with brute strength. What is confirmed due to Fahim’s death is that lady Isabella is a heretic, a servant to dark and terrible masters. It’s clear she has left with her masters so there is a possibility that she will turn up again. Belaris mind then drifted to Michael the only thing that could inflict such damage is an Astartes sorcerer his death was merely ill-fortune but what concerned him further is Larissa is MIA. There is a possibility that she has been captured by the heretics, but he knows her she will kill herself before she becomes a minion of darkness. In the end all of his acolytes are gone they served well and he prayed for their souls. He turned to look upon the scions that accompanied him at most they are aiding the Astra Militarum in their efforts. He called one over “you! Come over!” the scion heard his call and walked over he saluted “inquisitor.” “I want you to prepare the general to enter my service. He will be given to my associates in the Adeptus Ministorum who will prepare his mind and body. Once that is done have him returned to me I will work him over again to turn him into a weapon of the god-emperor.” The scion saluted to his words. “It will be done. Is he still in the cell under the mansion?” Belaris nodded “he is.” the scion then turned away to enact his orders.

He sighed in frustration the heretic slipped through his fingers and caused devastation being in the shadows helped to grasp some information but he has to be on point. The drive in his mind tells him he must be more stringent in the future, zealous but he knows where that road leads. His predecessor and teacher lost his way despite being a puritan despite his long service. Righteous and zealousness has its place but he must remain focused an inquisitor must see all paths and angles. Focusing on one road will enable the heretic to attack from all directions.

Belaris placed his hands behind his back he looked up towards the skies “I must prepare and grow from this failure. A new retinue will be needed…”

Her mind was like a haze. It’s been days since she has been strapped to the operating table and slowly she is finding all the stories of heretic astartes to be true her captor is a true monster. A daemon who speaks gently a heretic that picks their words carefully. More than anything she hates it’s face, like a mask it hides the true horror within. She roared thrashed in her bonds “let me go!” said Larissa the heretic loomed over and smiled “stop resisting I wish to make you perfect. A perfect example and companion.” “I will never join you! Never!” “then you will suffer greatly, please do just make it easy and accept the gifts I wish to lay upon you.” the heretic said softly.

The monster life her vision, she frantically tried to free herself but the bindings were too tight. She could barely even move, Larissa then felt a large hand holding her arm, she grit her teeth to get ready for what was about to come next, she waited for the sharp scratch whatever this heretic is doing he has been injecting numerous concoctions into her system through the days. So far all it has caused is extreme pain, with time she got used to it if she mentally prepares herself. This moment is the only time she calms herself to quiet the fury in her mind. Larissa waited, she grit in teeth and then she felt it the needle piercing her skin and the burning fluid entering her bloodstream.

Seconds ticked away, she could feel the fluid moving her bloodstream but she felt no pain which was odd. By now there should be pain “what have y-” her words died on her lips slowly her thoughts started to jumble, Larissa saw flashes of her past the time they stopped the rotblood cult from summoning daemons, the time she personally killed her commissar who embraced the ruinous powers and finally her oath to Belaris. Events were disintegrating rapidly, she then heard heavy footsteps, the heretic loomed over again but this time no words were passed between them. The monster reached over and grasped her head tightly she could barely breathe and after a moment came the pain.

An engulfing agony that tore through her system she buckled in the bonds and let loose muffled screams, as the the pain seared through her body memories started to become disjointed. Her heart beating rapidly Larissa wanted this pain to end, what in the name of the god-emperor did she do to deserve this?

Adelram held the face of the female her muffled screams shows the process is going well, even strands of her hair is slowly turning white as expected. He won't allow himself to chuckle he needs to concentrate he needs to get this right. His new companion buckled in the bonds as he released a another wave of pain through her body. “You will enjoy pain in time” Adelram said softly he was about to discharge another wave until the doors of the operating theatre opened he grunted in annoyance “who is interrupting me!?” from the door he heard a bestial whine the sound caused the anger to dissipate slightly “Salvador what is it? I am busy.” From the corner of his vision he saw Salvador approaching him looking clearly upset. “Master I can’t find Asriel…” “what do you mean you can’t find him?” “My lord I looked everywhere in his room, the bar, Marthas room and he is not even in the Helbrute hold…” Salvador mentioning all the locations and the fact he can’t find him was odd. Normally it’s not hard to get a hold of him but he needs to keep his complete attention on his project. “I am sure Asriel is working on correcting his failure that’s it. There is nothing to worry about Salvador he can look after himself.” Salvador sighed he walked towards the operating table “who is that?” he asked.

Adelram stopped the torrent of power and moved his hands away the female gagged and coughed, blood dribbled down her nose. “I haven’t named her yet. She is the project I am working on she will be an example for Asriel.” “example? Why? What’s wrong with Asriel?” said Salvador. The question caused Adelram to shake his head in annoyance at first he thought nothing wrong but the event in his chamber shows there is something clearly wrong and he refuses to let it fester. At least Asriel is trying to contemplate on his failure. “Salvador, Asriel made a few mistakes and he is allowing it to overtake him and in turn cloud his decision making. I thought nothing was wrong at first but Dolwine showed me that there is a problem. Asriel is not quick to change so I will develop something to show what I expect from him.” his words caused Salvador to look down upon his project he stared at her for a moment. “Are you….going to replace him? Are you going to get rid of Asriel?”

The question caused his hearts to constrict slightly he almost forgotten that Salvador is observant. Adelram looked down at the female a part of him was against the idea of such a thing but the issue is if there is no improvement once the project is done. His mind drifted to such a possibility Asriel’s actions in his chamber shows that the restoration process might of not worked correctly. Thinking on it further Asriel had no interest in the companion he provided for him either. The silence lingered between both him and Salvador for a few moments eventually he sighed. “What are you thinking Salvador? I would never do that.” His bestial servant looked into his eyes he stared at them he frowned for just a split second, just for a fraction, Adelram wondered if he could see he spoke a half truth.

He wondered if his servant is smart enough to pick it up, even if he did he would never go against him. At most Salvador would be sad but would rationalize that Asriel may have done something terribly wrong to bring his ire. In the end Asriel has done something wrong and he means to correct it before it gets to that point he has to correct it before it gets there it’s why he is pouring so much energy into this. Adelram smiled “now enough let’s focus on my project she needs a name remember?” Salvador smiled “Oh yes! Erm...hmmm...Fatima? How about that?” Adelram’s eyes widened slightly in shock that he might possibly remember his pathetic sister. He can’t allow such a name if Salvador remembered that event it might break a effective servant. “No, that’s not a good name.” his bestial servant frowned slightly “okay, do you have any ideas master?” at the mention of ideas he did have one. An appropriate name for the woman before him he smiled at her as she convulsed on the operating table. “Your name shall be...Defillia….”

He sat in the room by himself he prepared the summoning circle, the appropriate six sacrifices had their necks slit open their blood smeared on the walls and floors of the room which has now properly consecrated the grounds. The one he is summoning is dangerous, she could destroy him with even a fraction of her power. So he had to do this carefully there can be no mistakes. Once satisfied Asriel stood before the circle and chanted he let the dark tongue spell from his lips, the blood smeared on the walls and floor took a life of its own as it turned to liquid and gathered in the summoning circle he prepared.

As he chanted he heard a moan that pierced the spheres itself at the back of his mind, he wondered if the daemon was trying to distract him? To make a mistake so she could devour him? For his sake he remained focused. He did not want a repeat of the church as his chant reached a crescendo the blood began hovering into the air forming a ball. Slowly the ball of blood began evaporating but the mist looked pink, eventually the ball of blood burst releasing a surge of mist into the room.

Asriel covered his eyes as the mist hit his face, as it went into his nostrils he smelt honey it was oddly pleasant but the voice that creased his mind set him on guard. The voice sounded female and was gentle like silk sheets but at the back of it Asriel could hear a thousand people screaming in rapture and pain. +who dare’s to call me?+ Asriel lowered his eyes the mist began slowing gathering again in the circle what slowly formed is the upper half of the daemon he wished to summon the rest of her lower body was made up of the pink mist. In the end that’s all he needed plus if he called the daemon fully into this realm he doubts that she would fit into the room. He looked upon the one he summoned her somewhat pale skin, her long tongue that lashed out along with her crown of horns. What held Asriel’s gaze is the four limbs the two bottom ones looked like crab claws and her upper arms one was plain and the other was covered in a spiked latex glove. Just a single motion from her she could cut him into ribbons.

The daemon intoned again “+who dare’s to call me? Zarakynel the Angel of Despair? Zarakynel the Unholy one?+” At the mention of her name Asriel gave a small bow “Zarakynel exalted Keeper of secrets I have summoned you for….wisdom.” The daemon raised her eyebrow “+wisdom? Not pleasure?+” “in a manner of speaking that may happen if I get what I want Unholy one.” she hissed at him “+why should I waste my time? I should devour you and leave for daring to call me…+” Asriel pleaded to the daemon “wait! Just… look at me. You know what I want, you can feel it. Keeper of secrets know mortal desires but they also bare secret and forbidden knowledge. Know that once I have it, you will be pleased with the outcome. When my plan comes to fruition the dark prin-” at the mention of dark prince the daemons hand pale hand snapped out and grabbed his neck she pulled him close to her face.

Her blue eyes met his in reaction Asriel grit his teeth, the daemon wants to enslave him, savour him and finally kill him. He has been down that road before he does not want a repeat of that. “L-look at my d-desire….s-see what I want…” Asriel gasped. The neverborn’s long tongue lashed out and licked his cheek, Asriel quivered at the sensation he felt his heart melting. Instead of the cold emptiness he felt warmth filling his body.

He almost became lost in but he had an objective “d-do you see what I want?” as he spoke the daemon dropped him to the ground. She smiled “+interesting….very well but I want something in return before I give you….wisdom…+” he panted as he got up he looked up to Zarakynel “name it...what do you want?” the Angel of Despair pointed her talon at his right eye. “+rip it out in front of me and hand me your right eye. It will be a sign of our pact...+” without hesitation Asriel readied his gauntlet and began tearing out his right eye, the agony that erupted from it set him off balance but to him this is a small price to pay to get what he wants. Zarakynel chuckled as this happened he guessed that she was enjoying his pain, eventually with some work he got it out.

Blood streaming down his eye socket he handed the black eyeball to the daemon she plucked it from his hands and looked at it lovingly. She flicked it into her mouth and chewed slowly for some reason he could hear each chew the wound he caused to remove his eye was slowly healing at the same time. Asriel took a deep breath “do we have a deal?” Zarakynel swallowed, she then smiled. “+we do mortal...I am eager to see what you do…+” the neverborn’s form began dissipating with the mist at she vanished Asriel could feel the information being imprinted on his mind. He smiled “this is everything I will need…”

Marthas sat at his desk and looked at the report the slaves were screaming to the high heavens that there are shadows spiriting them away. Even the serfs on the upper layer whisper of black daemons that steal people away from their beds. For some reason he thought about the time he saw Asriel going down to the lower levels it’s been three months since then. As a week passed Adelram grew concerned for his missing servant, he did not answer his hails and psychic messages merely bounce back.

Even Izel cannot find hide or hair of him as it moved to the end of the first month Astartes started to vanish. It was not enough to be a concern it was one every few weeks but eventually it drew Adelram’s eye to the issue of missing people and of course he asked if he knew anything about where Asriel ran off to.

He merely told him that Asriel left for the lower levels the news did not please him at the mention of the general location he sent Sebastian, Tarkhan and Marius with a few Astartes down to the lower levels. Marthas grumbled “they haven’t been back in in a month…”

The disappearance of those three and the search party Adelram put a halt to all raids until the situation is fixed. In their talks whenever he calls him to his chamber he could see clearly that his lord blames him for Asriel’s disappearance. He states that he should of stopped him and now his communicator chimed for his lord wants to see him again. Marthas rose from his desk and sighed heavily “he is most likely going to be pacing frantically when I get there…” he walked over to the stand that held his weapon and grabbed it. He then made his way to exit his room as he stepped into the hallway it was eerily quiet it’s been like this for the past month.

People on the ship are literally terrified to leave their rooms at most Astartes walk the halls and even then they walk with weapons drawn. He started to walk down the hallway, in these past few days at the back of his mind he could hear slithering he dismissed since at most it’s annoying sound. His lord has him spending all his time filing reports dealing with the kidnappings or being on the lookout for Asriel.

Once he was at Adelram’s chamber doors he pushed them open, entering the chamber he saw his lord as always pacing. But what surprised him were the individuals in the room, Salvador was fully geared and held his axe in hand. Adelram’s new attendant Defillia wielded a power spear and wore carapace armour with torn off sleeves. The muscle on her body clearly shows gene-enhancement but her most defining feature is her brown hair that held white threads in random sections.

The other’s in the room caused him to raise his eyebrow, Izel and Silas with his terminators looked fully geared and ready for war. Adelram finally noticed him entering and stopped pacing he smiled. “Good everyone is here.” Marthas walked to the centre of the chamber and stood next to Silas. “What is it? Is something wrong?” his question caused Silas in grunt in annoyance “we are going to look for Asriel. Our lord has had enough.” Izel shrugged “knowing that little man he is probably doing something insane.” Marthas raised his eyebrow to Izel “why do you think that?” “I am sure all of you haven’t forgotten he killed a planet for all of you? Or am I the only one that remembers?” At the mention of Athor Marthas was taken aback. “Well yes, but do remember he stated before he vanished he means to improve the warband.” Silas scoffed at his words “if improve you mean spiriting away members of said warband I don’t call that improving! We haven’t been on a raid in months!” Silas pointed at Adelram “if we find you servant I hope you are going to punish him!”

Marthas could see Silas’ words caused Adelram to frown “why do I need to punish him? If he produces results then there would be no reason to. Now what is frustrating me is the need for secrecy.” “my lord this Asriel sounds like a coward. If he wanted to improve the warband he should of merely stayed at your side and obeyed you words. He should of reflected on his failures not cripple us.” everyone’s eyes locked on the speaker it was Difillia, Adelram bought his eyes to her “I know Difilla but there must be a purpose…” “there is purpose which is obeying you not running off thinking he knows better.” Marthas shook his head “sometimes he does know better. I still believe he meant his words the fact we have not found Asriel yet means he does not want to be found. Once he is ready he will come out.” “I agree with him!” shouted Salvador. His lord faced Salvador “I know you trust your brother but I can’t ignore that he is taking my people without tell me why. Now I gathered all of you because we are going to the lower levels to search. We will not return unless this situation is dealt with, even we have to burn out the chattel in the lower levels to find my wayward servant.”

Marthas tried hard not to sigh at the order this action shows that he does not trust him fully yet. He guessed that it has something to do with his questioning during the events of Dolwine he tightened his grip on his weapon he prayed that whatever Asriel is doing will knock their lord of his feet.

Tarkhan coughed, day by day they tear out his organs taking them away one at a time and then the masked people eturn to this room to reattach them. What held his attention always is the masks the ones before him wore silver ones. The rune of the the dark prince was on the forehead of the mask and the mouth was somewhat shaped like the mouth of a snake with a serpent tongue sticking out. The ones that held him captive in dark chains knelt as they worked his naked form lying on the cold hard floor. At first he struggled but no matter what he did he could not break the chains.

He recalled the attack it was so sudden dark forms attacking from all angles the swiftness and speed of the attacks took all of them off guard. Plus the shadows themselves were assaulting them, what shocked him even further was Marius was simply torn apart by the darkness that consumed them. He did not even get the chance to scream.

Back then they were like blind men fighting in the darkness as they were picked off one by one, Sebastian was mortally injured but what surprised him further is their bodies merely melted into the darkness. His own wounds caused him to pass out and then he was here and the torture began. Tarkhan shouted at the silent workers “who are you! What are you doing!” as always his exclamations fall on deaf ears these humans have no respect plus the idea of a cult attacking the Astartes of this ship was baffling.

Tarkhan moved his head slightly to look around the room, what every inch of the room was covered in parchment, he could not read the text that covered them and seeing them for the first time he thought they were preparing him for some sort of mad ritual. That thought died as he spent possibly weeks in this room.

He grunted as he felt an organ being stitched back into place. He wondered why this was happening to him a part of him did think Asriel was a part of this but there was no way he would do something like this or attack Astartes either. As his mind drifted the door opened the masked people immediately stopped their work, they faced the door and bowed as they all intoned “high prelate..”

Tarkhan edged his head up to see who it was he saw a familiar cloak wrapped around a figure that wore a gold mask it looked similar to the silver ones save that there was only one eye socket and the mouth was shaped somewhat like an open serpent maw. The figure stepped into the room and looked down at him “Hello Tarkhan.” the voice was muffled slightly but he recognised it he thrashed and roared in the chains “what is the meaning of this! Asriel tell me!” at his howling Asriel removed his mask and clipped it to his belt, he now only had one eye and similar text that lined the parchment wall covered his cheek slightly. “You are being used for the sake of the family and the warband. You are being used for our lord.” his words caused the anger to drift from his body and only confusion started to seep in. “used? What do you mean?”

He smiled “do you know what we are doing to your body?” he pointed at him, his finger glew slightly Tarkhan felt his chest being closed instead of the painful stitching it was merely a tingle after a moment there was not even a blemish of the mad cultists work. “Tarkhan through my work you are now of emperor’s children stock.” Asriel’s announcement caused Tarkhans hearts to drop, he did not feel any different but he knows Asriel would not joke about this but a question remained. “What of Marius body? What of Sebastian and the Astartes you have taken?” Asriel titled his head “what of them? They were used to finish my project. Yes see Marthas before creation, comes destruction. Before Something new can be created something has to be destroyed. They were offered up for the warband’s sake” Tarkhan could not understand what he is saying but he could not help but laugh “so you kidnapped Astartes for this!? Our Khan will punish you!” he kept laughing “so what have you done with the slaves then? Fed them to your project!?” Asriel gestured to the kneeling people “the slaves are all here. With me. The ones that attacked you were also the slaves I have taken” the news caused Tarkhan to stop laughing “Impossible! There is no way sla-” “slaves could beat Astartes? You worked with Fabius don’t you recall the gland hounds? They can easily take one of you down...but enough of that. You are ready.”

Tarkhan curled his lip in disgust “you think that I will help you? I might just deliver your head to our Khan…” Asriel shrugged “you are not going to be at our lord's side either. He needs someone he hates and a suitable body has been prepared.” at mention of leaving his Khan’s side Tarkhan roared in fury “you will not take me from him! You won’t! I won’t let you!” he walked over and gestured to the people to rise they began circled him and began chanting.

A dark language spilled from their mouths the darkness from the battle began manifesting in the room. It crawled towards him like a hungry predator, he trashed in the chains. He can’t die here not after everything he has given up, not after finding his Khan. “It can’t end like this!” the darkness shot forward like a snake and consumed him he felt his face warping, his memories splintering and being replaced by events he has never seen. He sees a perfect city, he also found himself kneeling in ashes and staring at a cursed light. He saw someone else at the front of the light kneeling a primarch he knows well but seeing him in such a state angered him. It shamed him. Tarkhan cried out “T-this is...not…” his voiced slowly died away replaced by a voice he never knew but at the same time it confused him because this new voice is his. All the memories of chogoris drifted away, sputtering into the darkness as he sank falling into the maw of the great khagan a single thought passed through his mind. I should've listened and then nothing.

He stared as the ritual did it’s work Tarkhan is being used for something greater, for the sake of Adelram’s dream. If he wants to achieve this vision he will require someone, he may hate him but he will now value his words now. He ended the chant with the lower gothi’s the darkness melted away now displaying an Astartes with coppery skin, his features are not that of a chogorisian but of someone belonging to the to the dead planet Colchis.

He gasped “where...am I?” Asriel flicked his hands, the chains fell off the body of the person he bought back. He sat up and looked around when their eyes met he saw recognition, Asriel smiled “Hello Ivan….”

Chaos is not fair, that is all I will say.

 shinros wrote:
Chaos is not fair, that is all I will say.

So he may yet step on Cadia... We’ll see.

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:
Chaos is not fair, that is all I will say.

So he may yet step on Cadia... We’ll see.

Cadia is gone IIiu. Chaos is not fair remember?

Damn I liked tarkhan and Marius :(

 Dayknight wrote:
Damn I liked tarkhan and Marius :(

Chaos is not fair! I loved them too. Also new chapter in about a second.

Chapter 38
The room was filled with scented incense that set his body at ease but at the same time made him alert. He guessed around this point his lord will finally look for him personally which is expected. The two others that were with him in his chambers were caught up in their own devices, Ivan was meditating trying to centre himself after his resurrection, the priest has also already took to converting Tarkhan’s old armour to his liking covering it in parchment detailing promises of torture and excess, what Asriel found most interesting is that he had no memory of what may of happened to his soul in the warp. At most when he was killed by Marthas it was like a blank spot for him. The second was Sitri who is sitting on a cushion heavily breathing in the incense a month into his work she easily pierced all the wardings and found his abode, his cult.

Asriel faced both of them, he could not make out their expressions due to them wearing similar golden masks. Sitri was somewhat obscuring her features but Ivan took the ideas of the cult in stride, it was like he was right at home. As he stared at them Sitri lifted her mask slightly “why don’t you bring some of the prelates to join us Asriel? I am bored.” “no, they have more important things to do than please you Sitri.” Asriel retorted. “You mean kidnap more helpless people to fuel their excess? Steal away people in the dark to convert them?” Ivan chuckled as Sitri complained “they are doing holy work envoy, I can sense our lord coming towards us. It will take some time but he will get here eventually. Personally I still can’t believe Jedrick of all people ascended.” “He did ascend Ivan, in a manner of speaking he was the most selfish and the one who understood our god the best. So he was given a place at his side.” the ex-word bearer removed his mask his single earring shaped in slaanesh rune dangled as he faced him. “Perhaps, but what impresses me further is the fact Adelram has met divinity, if my old legion knew of someone who has done such a thing they would move heaven and earth to acquire him.” “To torture him? That’s what you meant right?” said Asriel. The priest smiled “well if he willingly speaks of his experiences I doubt my ex-brothers would so such a thing. I do feel he should be careful from now on.” “I see, that is good to know but considering what I have done your brothers should be more worried about joining us considering Adelram’s mannerisms.”

As they talked he could see Sitri growing restless she pouted and stood up right “I am going to the arena, perhaps my adoring fans will better my mood.” she stretched “being a high prelate is not all that bad, people desiring the position line up to fight me those slithering warriors are not half bad in combat either.” Asriel sighed hearing that, perhaps he should find some way to aid her in killing time, since whenever she gets bored many of the prelates and gothi’s end up in pieces. Her fights are spectacle he has to admit that much. “I will get you more slaves Sitri, you don’t have to murder the cult to pass time.” Sitri laughed at his words “coming from you? The hearteater? The beast of depravity? The devourer of pain? The br-” “you don’t have to list off my titles, I had a reason for eating the prelate’s hearts you kno-” “I know what it means does not mean you don’t enjoy eating them. I see your tail swishing in the arena as you tear the hearts out of those who are defeated, like a mad animal you attack the heart drinking in the blood and devouring meat, taking in the essence of the great one. The practice has pretty much spread to the whole cult I have even tried it the meat is quite delicious. Much more better than drinking from the source.” she then shrugged “in the end the experiments were worth it. I can imagine the great one smiling in joy with what you developed and all it took is your eyeball, kidnapping and murdering Astartes.” at the mention of experiments Ivan stood up his face turned grim which for some reason worried Asriel. “Your experiments have borne fruit Asriel, but it must remain a secret from the other legions. Even from Abbadon hence the amount of wards that surround it. If anyone found out what you have done this warband will be marked for destruction by the other legions.” “I know that.” Asriel folded his arms “I am aware of what this means but there will be a time that Lord Fulgrim comes and beckons his sons to him. We need to be on the top, we need to be one of the best, the most perfect. What I have developed will aid my lord greatly in the future. To take what makes an Astartes and change it to the point it destroys another primarch’s legacy. I still recall Tarkhan’s face at the revelation but… I enjoyed his reaction, the horror, the absurdity of what I did to him.”

Asriel removed his warmask “on a genetic level no matter what legion someone switches or changes to some part of them think themselves as a son of the legion they belong to. That cannot be allowed under Adelram, they should embrace entropy, they should embrace the third and think of Lord Fulgrim as their lord and father.” his words bought a sense of silence to the room he saw approval in Ivan’s and Sitri’s eyes. He hoped Adelram would look at him in the same way once he arrives but talking about the subject developed that itch again.

He turned away and placed his warmask back on “I am going to the arena.” his announcement caused Sitri laugh “so the conversation is boring you? We are more alike than you thought...” Asriel turned his head back slightly “a little, we have been over this many times and in a manner speaking I am getting bored.” ever since he gave up his eye and he began devouring hearts he has found his attention span shortening having long conversations causes his mind to drift to other things he could be doing. It’s like a nagging itch or thought that he could be in the arena enjoying the thrill of combat, spending time with the other prelates or even drinking from the source to burn his nerves. “As I said I am going to the arena, if he arrives you know what to do.” he then left his chambers as he entered the hallway every inch of the hall was covered in portraits of the third along with their prominent members. The artists of the pieces ritually killed people on the portrait and used their body parts in the paints to create the best depictions of their lords. Scenes of boundless excess, others showing prominent battles.

He taught the cult to view the Astartes above as demi-gods holy children that are above them and should be following their example in all things. He recalled the time when they were taking the Astartes, many of the prelates and gothi’s were crying tears of despair at what they were doing. Such a reaction shows that the Anguis project, no the Anguis cult is ready. Now his lord just needs to come to him.

Walking the halls of the lower levels it was too quiet, rooms were empty and at most all he could hear is a slithering sound at the back of his mind. They have been down here for weeks, when he said they won’t leave until they solve the situation he meant it. Being in the lower levels have started to grate on the nerves of his followers save Salvador, Defillia and Marthas. Silas was eager to get back to the upper levels and the only reason why he keeps going is the need to go on raids and Izel desire’s to be back within his chambers experimenting with people and his powers with slaves missing he can’t do such a thing. Silas grunted “we haven’t seen one slave since we went to the lower levels, it was like someone has removed them existence itself.” Adelram turned his head back slightly “It seems Asriel has been busy, far too busy.” “your servant can be mad sometimes do you know that?” said Silas. Izel sighed “you are saying that now? Silas we are all insane the difference is Asriel has no bounds I learned that from Athor” the sorcerer then looked around “I can feel sorcery in the air whatever he is doing daemons have walked these halls. Fully manifested daemons.”

At the mention of daemons Adelram opened his senses, he found Izel was right the mark of the daemon can be felt, the lingering souls of dead mortals who engaged in activities with the daemons and there was something else a strange smell that permeated the recycled air from his helmet. It was a heady smell of musk, he wondered what sort of mad experiments Asriel has in engaged in but since he is going this far to the point he is taking Astartes it must be something big.

He looked over to Marthas who hasn’t said a word of dissent since their journey he kept to himself always, it was plain to him the utter faith he had in what his servant was doing. “So tell me Marthas you feel that he is doing something worthwhile?” the one eyed apostle looked up to him smiling “I am excited to see what he has done, I can feel it in the air, the depravity that has gone on in these halls. I do not speak because I don’t want to ruin the possible moment, the surprise...” “surprise? I hope the missing Astartes is worth whatever he is doing I don’t want what he is working on to cripple us.” “You could of crippled us with your stunt but you thought it was for the best and look at the results. Have patience my lord.” retorted Marthas.

Their conversation caused Defillia to grind her teeth he looked down to his new servant, it’s clear she is agitated, it’s clear enough to him what’s going through her mind. But a part of him wanted to hear it from her “what’s wrong Defillia? What’s the matter?” she curled in lip in disgust as she spoke “if he wanted to improve the warband, if he was loyal he would of been honest if you. Why hide things from you? What is there to gain? If whatever he is doing was important and beneficial you would agree to it.” Adelram agreed with her assenement there would be no reason to hide if it was practical and aided him in some measure. He would see no reason to disagree or hinder him unless Asriel himself was not sure with what he is doing. “I agree, I still don’t understand the need for secrecy perhaps he is not confident with what he is doing..” Salvador grumbled “I disagree, I think lord Marthas is correct. Brother is a smart person I-” before he could finish the slithering sound came back far more loudly than before. This time everyone heard it, the whole group put hands to weapons.

The slithering sound was coming towards them second by second the sound increased until something melted out of the darkness. What was before them caused Adelram’s eyes to widen, it was a person, a female who’s lower body is that of a snake, she wore makeshift armour that clearly showed her muscled and oiled arms.

On her face was a great golden warmask, with an open serpent mouth her hair flowed freely in a mix of bright colours. Wrapped around her waist is tools along with a sheathed blade. The sight caused Adelram to drop his guard almost completely, he needed to examine the specimen before him, he wanted it. To his surprise the female bowed and began speaking her voice was smooth and delicate “I am pleased to be the first to greet you my lords.”

The serpentine female speaking jolted Adelram to attention, he could see his retinue all staring in silence. He slowly walked forward, until he felt someone holding his hand to stop, he looked down to see Difllia shaking her head “this could be a trap…” Adelram looked down at her hand and continued walking forward, her servant’s grip drifting at the force of his movement. He stood before the mutant who was at least a little shorter than salvador due to her lower body. She bowed again “great lord, I am head prelate Carita, leader of the valeblood sect. I am...pleased to see you…” Adelram leveled his vision into the eye sockets of the mask he could tell Carita is trembling, not in fear but elation. “Remove your mask.” said Adelram.

The prelate immediately did as she bade once the mask came off he saw an androgynous face, that is oiled to Adelram it was beasutiful like a master sculpted it. He grasped Carita’s face who flinched slightly at his touch “are there more of you?” Adelram said flaty. “Yes, sects bare males and females of bare similar gifts to me. It was guided by the high prelate, the beast of depravity.” Adelram raised his eyebrow “high prelate? Beast of Depravity?” “ He is also known as hearteater and the bringer of woe . I can guide you to him, I can take you to our home my lord.” Adelram removed his hands, at the motion Carita placed her mask back on. “I am sure he will be happy to see you.” at the mention of all the titles he turned his head to Marthas who is now smiling ear to ear, he did not even need to read his thoughts to know what he is thinking. I told you so, Adelram sighed. “Take us to your home.”

The prelate bowed and began slithering down the hall, Adelram gestured to his entourage “come enough gawking.” at his order everyone was brought to attention, he could also see Defillia is still clearly on guard. In the end it did not matter what she thinks, it’s likely that Marthas right. As he began walking to Carita everyone followed behind him.

As they moved through the halls they walked in silence but Adelram wanted to ask the head prelate more questions. “So tell me why have you been taking my people?” Carita turned her head to him “to make them better. The cult above could not grasp what is required of them so we taught them.” “taught them what?” Adelram said firmly “you have been taking things that don’t belong to you. Due to your efforts it is crippling the warband.” his words caused the head prelate to stop she drew her blade and activated the field suddenly she disappeared like a flash, he then heard a beastial whine at the back. He turned to see Carita is now before Salvador pointing the blade at his neck “do I look like someone who would cripple the warband my lord?” she lowered her blade and deactivated the power field “I killed to become likes this, I ate my rivals and engaged in practices that will blacken souls. We did all this for you.” Her words sounds something like Asriel would say, how she speaks has him written all over it.

He smiled “I take back my remark then, I am eager to see your home. The prelate nodded and slithered onwards. Everyone continued to follow the head prelate, as they walked the hallways were still silent but they stopped in the middle of the corridor. Carita raised her hand, pink lights danced before her as the hallway began bending and reshaping eventually revealing two double doors that are covered in parchment. But the design of the doors held his interest it was a giant serpentine figure with great wings and long hair reaching up to a galaxy to take hold of it. Adelram almost reached out in reaction “father…” Silas strode to the door “what is this?” Carita moved towards the doors “this is our home.” she flicked her hands again the doors slowly opened.

A huge gust of wind came from the doors she then gestured “after you my lords.” Adelram looked into the darkness he felt tense for some reason, Slowly he walked forward into the darkness. As he walked through what greeted him was a grand hall with different elevations leading into tunnels, along with strange metal houses, he saw people walking around going on their business, some wearing bronze and silver masks. At various tunnel entrances he saw more serpentine people guarding certain routes while holding spears. Izel strode forward “such advanced sorcery...how did he learn how to separate the ship in such a fashion?”

Cartia came forward as the doors closed behind her “this is our home, Nelhuayotl I remember the time it was just a few of us hovelling together…” Adelram shook his head “he did this in a few short months….it’s….” “Impossible?” he heard a voice, it was familiar voice but it did not hold pleasant memories. He looked forward to see an Astartes wearing a golden mask, their armour covered in parchment. Adelram drew his blade right away “why are you alive?” The Astartes strode forward and gave a small bow “my lord is that the first thing you say after all this time?” “yes, speak quickly before I kill you.” the masked figure looked over to Silas “it’s nice to see you again how are you Silas?” Silas grunted in return “I am with Adelram why are you alive?”

The Astartes removed his mask and clipped it to his belt he smiled, his features looked at the point before mutation “Ivan, I shall ask again why are you alive?” The old apostle chuckled “is that a way to greet your brother? You flesh and blood?” “we are not brothers anymore! Nor are we flesh and blood!” Adelram spat. Ivan tutted “still difficult, but I am pleased you at least bought my killer over to the truth.” Marthas walked forward and squinted his eyes at Ivan “I do recall I did kill you. Quite easily.” “you did, but I am stronger now. I am quite sure we will not have a repeat of that.” in a single motion Marthas readied his weapon “are you sure?” “I am” Ivan the sighed “so eager to kill the little serpents prized work.” Adelram removed his helmet he held it and looked at Ivan “what do you mean prized work?” Ivan wiped his hand through his bald head “that I bear the gene-seed of the emperor’s children. I am technically not a son of lorgar anymore.” Adelram dropped his helmet at the news “that is is impossible. There is no way that could be done…...what on earth is Asriel doing!?” he shouted.

Ivan gestured to try and calm his anger it did not help “My lord, he made it possible now if you calm yourself I can take you to your servant.” Adelram picked up his helmet and clipped it to his belt he frowned “yes, take me to him I have a few questions for him.” His old apostle inclined his head and turned “follow me.” Adelram gave everyone a look to be careful. There was silent acknowledgement as they followed Ivan with the head prelate.

As they walked through the grand hall all the mortals looked at them in awe and bowed, he would absorb their praise but the news that Ivan is of third stock troubled him greatly. Considering there is no means to convert an Astartes in such a fashion, plus along with the rejection issue and certain organs being removed could possibly kill an Astartes. He wondered what manner of beings or rituals his wayward servant was playing with. Ivan then lead them to a tunnel as they entered they heard cheering.

It was muffled at first but got louder as they walked down the tunnel, Ivan turned his head back slightly “my lord there is no need to be so upset things will become clear. Patience…” “shut up Ivan I did not ask you to speak.” Adelram said flaty. Ivan being resurrected has soured his mood greatly the snake men and women excited him but the prospect of Ivan being alive again caused him to grind his teeth slightly.

Eventually they reached the end of the tunnel and what greeted them was an extremely large hall with a iron dome built in the middle. The cheers raged into his ears, he wondered where Ivan has taken them to. As they walked up to the dome again the people circling it bowed as they stepped past. As they reached the entrance there were three pathways, Ivan pointed at the one guarded by those who look similar to the head prelate “we will be taking the one.” The guards bowed as they entered, walking down the hallway Adelram asked “I assume this is a manner of arena?” Ivan nodded “yes, prelates, the ones wearing golden masks tend to challenge the high prelates for their positions. Those who win can take the hearts of the fallen and devour them, in turn taking in the essence contained within.” “I doubt eating hearts empowers someone.” said Adelram. Ivan shrugged “I am not sure about that considering your father’s essence is running through the bloodstreams of many who dwell here.” at the mention of his father Adelram stopped in his tracks he looked upon the head prelate, her serpentine body is now finally making sense. It’s why the mutation is so common, but what puzzled him is how mortals bare his father’s essence. “Ivan, how did Asriel infuse simple mortals with Fulgrims essence?” Ivan gestured forward with his head “the one ahead of us will be able to answer.” His old apostle continued onward without another word. They then reached steps leading upwards as they walked up they entered a large viewing box that held giant cushions that could fit even an Astartes. Masked servants held pantry dishes that bore wine bottles and glasses.

In the box there was a white haired female resting on one of the large cushions clapping “it’s so fun watching him kill people…” the voice caused him to frown he should of known her hand was in this. Stiri turned her head back slightly and lifted up her mask “oh you bought them Ivan. Asriel got tired of waiting.” “well he has a short attention span.” Ivan gestured to cushions “please take your seats. I am sure you would like the front one my lord.” Adelram grumbled he sat next to his father’s creature who smiled at him. “It’s been awhile.” “what game are you playing with my servant? Are you misleading him?” Sitri frowned “accusations! Geez, how about you watch? All I did is give him a vial of your father’s blood all you see so far spawned out of…” she fingered quoted “the beast of depravity’s mind. Now let’s watch Asriel kill people.” Like a child she looked down to the arena, Adelram followed in looking the box has a perfect view of the arena.

He could see Asriel wearing a mask along with his hooded cloak, he was surrounded by other golden masked figures five of them in total some had snake bodies others didn’t. “They are all ganging up on him…” “of course they are! If they want the best chance of winning take out the biggest competition first!” exclaimed Sitri. He then heard a slither behind him, Adelram looked back to see Cartia looking at the arena “all of them are foolish to challenge him. This is a game to him, he will break their bodies and tear out their hearts.” Ivan sat down on the cushion next to him and nodded “yes, he will then become stronger as always.” as Ivan spoke he heard someone kissing his teeth he looked over to Difillia who is sitting at the other end of the box with Salvador, his bestial servant is already with the crowd cheering for Asriel’s victory to Difillia’s annoyance.

Adelram bought his eyes to the arena again as the fighting got started at once all five opponents charged Asriel, before they made contact Asriel did a backflip, it was so smooth the form was perfect, practiced. He landed behind one of his first opponents before they could turn around Asriel unsheathed his blade that was held on his back and planted the weapon in his opponents neck. With a swift motion of his hand he removed the head, he then placed his gauntleted palm in front of another enemy and released a surge of darkness that coiled around another fighter.

They screamed in pure agony as the meat slowly began slopping off their body leaving only bone and pulsing heart in the rib cage. Adelram felt his hands moving together to clap but held back he wanted to see more. He needed more, Asriel charged another challenger they moved to strike with their blade but Asriel’s movement was like the wind he dodged each attack like it was nothing. His servant then made a fist with the clawed gauntlet and moved in towards his opponent he launched his fist at the enemy as it crashed into the face of the challenger they were sent hurtling to the ground. As they hit the ground Asriel jumped upon them like an animal and began smashing their face into the metal ground with wanton abandoned blood splashing upwards “this is where fear sets in… they realise they made a mistake…” he looked up to see Cartia speaking. “A mistake?” said Adelram.

The prelate pointed “look at them my lord.” Asriel bought his vision to the two fighters that remained they froze in tracks as Asriel was doing his work on his now dead opponent. Adelram could see the clear fear in their movements. “They will die.” he said flatly. The head prelate nodded “indeed they will and the high prelate is not merciful either to those who remain.” Adelram raised his eyebrow “what do you mean?” Sitri sighed “just watch.” he looked at Sitiri in annoyance for speaking in such a manner but his curiosity go the better of him. He kept his gaze on the arena, slowly Asriel got up from the opponent he punched to death, all that remained was gory mess of skull pieces and brain matter.

His servant like an animal, he charged forward to two last remaining opponents as he closed in to one of them Asriel dropped his blade, darkness began consuming his body, he flexed his fingers, The one he charged tried to strike back but Asriel merely twisted around and punched the arena fighter in the face sending them to the ground.

His wayward servant circled the fighter he waited for them to get back up he charged again just as soon as they got to their feet. Asriel then released an onslaught of fist strikes, Adelram can clearly see bones being broken, he guessed that they were also internally bleeding as well. Asriel then bought back his gauntlet and instead of punch he tore of the mask of his opponent whose face was a shower of blood. He dropped the mask and like a flash his hands shot forward digging into the face of the one his is fighting. With a swift pull bits of their face was torn off, a scream that eclipsed the shouts and bellows of the stadium came from Asriel’s opponent.

But what shocked Adelram further is he saw Asriel lifting his mask slightly and devouring the pieces he tore away. His enemy then staggered back howling in agony clutching their ruined face, Asriel then made a reaching motion towards the blade he dropped, the rusted weapon floated and shot back to his hand.

He then gripped the blade in both hands and began slashing the opponent, but instead of killing strokes they were light slashes that caused flesh wounds, he was so precise to avoid the killing stroke he is purposely drawing out his opponents agony and pain. Eventually they crumpled to the ground as their wounds caught up with them. Asriel looked down at the corpse and began stabbing it repeatedly the person before him was already dead but looking at his body language it’s clear frustration. Frustration that his opponent died too quickly.

Eventually he stopped and turned to look upon the last warrior who was serpentine like Cartia. His mask and cloak covered in blood, Asriel slowly walked towards them, once they stood a few paces from one another they both held hands on blades. Then the sparks began, they were barely moving yet there are sparks around their bodies. “That is fast…” the voice came from his left he looked over to the left side of the box to see Marthas stroking his chin, instead of his normal eye being open it’s the eye that has been gifted to him.

Adelram faced the arena again, as the battle went on wounds slowly began covering Asriel’s opponent, gashes in the arms, slices in the serpentine body. “They are pushing their bodies to the extreme that is dangerous...well not for him it isn’t.” the voice belonged to Izel who sat next to Marthas. “What do you mean?” said Adelram. “I mean they are using biomancy mixed with sorcery to break the limits of their bodies open you witch eye and see.” Adelram faced the arena he opened his witch eye and he saw it the aura’s of both of them. Asriel’s was like a raging pink inferno, but it was controlled calm even while his opponent in comparison looked frantic. It was as bright as his servant’s but the flame was sputtering and diverting in different directions.

He is not as practiced in biomancy compared to Asriel but he narrowed his eyes he sharpened his senses and then he could see it the blade movements, the parries and strikes. The serpentine warrior was fast but Asriel was faster. He wondered if Asriel was even thinking about his attacks and defensive movements he could see the desperation in the last opponent’s soul while in comparison Asriel is calm, almost like still water. Watching this spectacle, this battle along with Asriel’s aura he could not put a word to it. To him it was beautiful but it was more than that focusing on his servant he gave off a strange heat that pricked his skin, despite being in the viewing box he could feel it.

As the fight went on, Asriel deflected a blow that opened up the serpentine warrior and that’s all he needed. His blade flicked out, as the sword moved through the air black trails covered it and in a single slash the head of the final opponent was removed. What surprised Adelram is for several seconds the now dead opponent was still fighting, the cut was so clean the body did not realise what just occurred. It took several moments for the body to stop and flop to the ground as the last opponent died silence reigned in the arena.

Everyone stared at the dead corpses, Adelram chuckled he wondered what reason is there to be silent. He stood up and clapped as the sound bounced through the stadium his servant looked up to him. As he claped the audience joined in and began clapping and cheering, Asriel looked away and sheathed his blade, he went to each of the bodies and began tearing out the hearts with his gauntlet and began devouring them.

Adelram could not see his face fully but going by his mouth he was clearly enjoying the meat. Once he was done he wiped his mouth and lowered his mask, a door on the side of the arena walled opened and out came people with bronze masks to take away the bodies. He watched his servant pay no attention to them as he left the arena through the opened door. Once Asriel left he stopped clapping “that was…interesting…”as Adelram slowly stopped clapping, Sitri stood up right “I assume he is coming here.” “then I am eager to meet him.” said Adelram.

After a few minutes everyone was up from their cushioned seats, the door leading out of the box opened and then he saw him. His servant who vanished for several months without a word. He waited to hear his reason, why he ran away and worked on all of this in private. Yet he held his silence, Adelram sighed “what were you doing? Why did you hide of all this?” he gestured to the room. Asriel looked around the room the one eye of his mask locked on Difillia “did you miss me that much? That you made her?”

Difillia spat at him “He made me to show you what you should be! Just because you figh-” “I wasn’t talking to you, you are a mere distraction for our lord nothing more. Be silent.” Difillia was about to shout again but Salvador charged forward and embraced Asriel he weeped slightly “I was worried!” Asriel patted the fur of Salvador “p-please...put me… down…” Salvador nodded and released his servant he walked back to his original position. Asriel brushed his gear “I repeat again did you miss me that much?” the question caused Adelram to shake his head “she is an example.” “a poor example” retorted Asriel.

He pointed at Difillia “has she sacrificed anything to approach me? Has she given anything up in order to even dare say she is meant to be my example? Should I tear out her eyes to show how much of a poor example she is my lord?” How Asriel is speaking would normally anger him, but for some reason he liked it. He did not know why “perhaps I was hasty in my reaction to dolwine…” “perhaps but at the same time I still think you should of restored Isira.” as he mentioned Isira he frowned “here I thought you learned something...if you really wanted her back you could of resurrected her. Just like you did for Ivan.” His servant shook his head “what would be the point? I won’t do it as a reminder that you made a mistake. The things I could of done if I had her expertise… you will understand soon enough.” Adelram then heard a cough he looked over to the source to see it’s Ivan “Asriel you are going to show him it now?” “Indeed I am, he has mainly come here to find out why I have been taking Astartes.” the mention of Astartes bought him back part of the issue at hand, he knows why he kidnapped the slaves but not the Astartes. “Yes I would like to know why you have been stealing away my brothers without my permission…” His servant gestured “then follow me.”

Adelram gave Ivan one more look to see he is smiling, whatever Asriel has done with their missing it’s a big deal since it’s putting a smile on Ivan’s face. He was not exactly sure to think of that, in the end they all followed Asriel.

His servant took them back to the main grand hall and they walked upwards towards the highest elevation, Adelram looked down at him. “You could of told me. I may of helped you.” “may, you may of helped me.” Asriel said flatly. “Now, we are almost there all will become clear my lord.” Adelram was about to say something but bit back his words, he merely followed as they reached the highest point there was a tunnel guarded by several golden masked warriors who guessed to be prelates. As they passed them they bowed like everyone else, as they walked through the tunnel for some reason Adelram felt anxious. What could his servant possibly done to need to spirit away Astartes? They walked onward towards a light and as they came upon the hall what was held in the middle of it captivated Adelram right away. The swirling luminescent pool. He gasped “what is is this….” what was also strange he saw strange liquid dripping into the pool, but the pool itself held his attention.

He looked to Asriel who gestured to it “this is the essence of your primarch my lord.” Adelram blinked “this large pool is? How did you create it?” “the vial of blood Sitiri provided was the base I had to build upon that.” The mention of building caused the gears in his head to click together the awe began crumbling into anger he grabbed Asriel’s cloak and hefted him to his face “where are the Astartes?” Asriel pointed upwards “there.” Asriel looked up, everyone in the group looked up and what he saw were naked Astartes hanging on long bladed spears that suspended them in mid-air he saw several familiar faces, Sebastian and Marius were among them.

Their chest cavities were torn open as blood dribbled down into the pool. The scene caused his eyes to burn in fury he looked down at Asriel “what sort of foolishness are you doing…..” “well we used sorcery to keep the bodies producing blood needed to fill the pool, I had their gene seed ground down and added to the pool. I made sure to also keep their progenoid glands for future use.” he watched his servant calmly explain how he mutilated members of his warband, Adelram grabbed Asriel’s mask and tore it off he threw it to one side revealing his face.

His wayward servant now only had one eye, the other is scarred tissue and he bore tiny scripture on his cheek, Adelram then asked firmly “where is Tarkhan?” Asriel pointed in Ivan’s direction “over there, his body was used as a test to see if the pool worked. Plus I needed Ivan so I had Tarkhan replaced he will be much better in getting what you want.” the news caused Adelram to throw Asriel across the room. At the corner of his vision he could see Difilla smiling and Salvador frowning in sadness.

What annoyed him is that Marthas was still smiling, the same smile from before when they were looking for his foolish servant. He clenched his hands an roared at Asriel “you murdered my Astartes for this!? To improve mewling slaves!?” Asriel got up slightly and popped his arm back into place “well yes, if you look upon Cartia but Astartes will benefit from this pool as well.” he said calmly. Adelram strode forward and picked up Asriel again “speak quickly...my patience is running thin…” “very well, what if I said if gene-seed treated in this pool would convert the respective organ to the one of your legion? A pure one. What you have in your hands is something that can destroy the legacies of the other legions. At the same time ingesting the contents of the pool delivers a sensonary explosion but also hones one’s body and senses.” He could not believe the information his servant is delivering to him that he developed such a thing. That those who join him can join the legion fully no matter where they come from. “What if the Astartes is already full grown? You can’t obtain all the organs.” his servant smiled “well that’s why Tarkhan was the test. You see there is an added effect, with time the organs treated would spread Fuglrim’s essence to overtake the other critical organs so there is no need to remove them.” as Asriel mentioned this Adelram could not help but smile he slowly lowered him to the ground gently “I see….but why the secrecy?” Asriel bought his vision to his entourage “tell me my lord do you trust them to sacrifice themselves for your dreams? Marthas would most likely do it but I was not sure for the rest. If I said that I would require sacrifices of the Astartes of the third to make this how many would accept? If you just went along killing and taking those who refused you will lose clout with the warband, in this instance I am the villain and you will be just making use of something that I produced. Plus they are used to me making such actions.”

The logic of his reasoning caused Adelram to stroke his chin “I see, then I apologize” at the mention of his apology Silas strode forward “I understand the usefulness of this pool but you must punish him.” Adelram gave Silas a look of disapproval, but he held his ground “he gets away with too much. He is the villain and he is still a human he is your servant. He held us from raids for several months if you do nothing the warband will not take it. Especially given that he killed and used several prominent members. Imagine if Marius remaining noise marines caught wind of this? Plus the fact you let him go scot free?” As Silas made his protest Izel chimed in “after everything I have seen you have something grand and dangerous on your hands. But I agree to keep up appearances you must punish him.” Ivan shook his head “our little serpent delivers something glorious and you seek to punish him to keep up appearances? Dear or dear, is the warband that weak willed?” Silas glowered “shut up! We did not ask for your opinion!”

Marthas raised his hand slightly “I agree with Ivan. we shoul-” before Marthas could say anything further he heard a large yawn coming from Asriel who rubbed his eye. “I tire of this. Let’s keep it simple, punish me. If it helps the story so be it, the arguing is making me sleepy.” At the mention of punishment he placed his hand on Asriel’s head “are you sure? Know that I am not angry with you.” his servant shrugged in return “I know, don’t worry I handle whatever you throw at me.” Adelram smiled “so devoted as always…”

Days passed, the news of the pool was kept under tabs by members he could trust but it was almost unanimous all the Astartes wanted Asriel punished for holding them back from raids and he obliged mainly due to Asriel agreeing to it. Through the days the cult Asriel developed started to integrate with the ship, Adelram learned of the teachings and ranks in full detail and how they conduct themselves pleased him. The only thing he added is only prelate’s are allowed on the upper levels, in turn this drove the lower ranking members of the cult to claw up the ladder to live with the demi-gods.

His brothers upon looking at the snake men and women caused a bedlam of arguments, each of them wanted one as a personal servant due to their sublime beauty and killing skill. In the end he denied it, only those who serve well may have one, which in turn meant only those close to him bared one and he held the rest. But today he walked the hallway to check up on his servant, Difillia was ecstatic with his “punishment” but he doubts whether Asriel see’s it at such.

Eventually he stood before the door, the small room were Asriel is held, he opened the door and stepped in. He heard gasps of pleasure which was an odd thing from Asriel, Adelram guessed it was from devouring his father’s essence. In the end it’s a pleasant change, he bought his eyes to the middle of the room and he saw Asriel chained to the floor, and around his form is wrapped spiked leather straps baring sharp needles piercing his skin, due to further protest from his brothers he had to make the punishment “worse” due to all the other perceived past transgressions. So along with the straps several small knives were impaled into his body each day one would be added.

Luckingly due to Asriel’s developed resilience and biomacy he did not die, he doubted that he would allow such a thing considering the state he is in. As he walked forward Asriel’s head edged upwards he gasped while his lips trembled “m-my lord…” Adelram scratched his head “I have come to release you.” Asriel shook his head “j-just o-one more day…” and there is the problem he extended this punishment for several days due to his requests. It’s gotten to the point it’s not even a punishment and he is using it to kill time he guessed that’s the reason why he agreed to it in the first place. He won’t even eat any of the food he brings due to the pain of hunger mixing in with the torment. “No, it’s enough I need you.”

Adelram walked over and knelt he began pulling out the knives, Asriel flinched as each knife was removed the wounds slowly starting to close. As he removed the second knife, the sound of crying entered his ears he sighed. “Are you crying really?” “just one more day…” Asriel said quietly. He shook his head he picked up both knives and stabbed them back into his body and twisted. His servant yelped, “Just one more day.” said Adelram. “Then it’s back to work, I have picked out a planet I want to put this cult of yours through its paces.” Asriel slowly nodded “r-right, just one more day.” Adelram frowned “one, not two or three, one more day.” he said firmly “I don’t want to come back here and hear you want another extension.” Asriel slowly nodded “can it be two? I changed my mind.” Adelram grumbled in annoyance “One! That’s it!” he rose and pointed at his servant “One!” Asriel started to cry again he creased his brow in frustration “fine….fine… two. That’s it.” “three, we can do three” intoned Asriel.

Adelram frowned heavily, annoyed he knelt again and started pulling out all the knives roughly, Asriel gasped “w-wait! One. Okay just one!” he stopped as his servant shouted and returned the knives to the original positions. He rose without a word and walked to the doors, he faced his servant before leaving “One more day.” Asriel slowly nodded, “one more.” Adelram sighed heavily and left the room.”

I have no idea how I came up with that last part but I love it. I hope both of you like it.

edit:Also I just sent my black library submission. I hope I get it!

 shinros wrote:

 Dayknight wrote:
Damn I liked tarkhan and Marius :(

Chaos is not fair! I loved them too. Also new chapter in about a second.

Haha and this is what makes you a great writer! Introducing and taking characters away really gets you invested in them and I'm never able to predict whose next, I swear you roll a D6 on their names sometimes.

This most recent chapter is fantastic, great work. I think that very last scene really drove home for me how far asriel has come. And honestly I'm usually able to somewhat predict the next chapter but I was so far off base with this one! I thought they were going to be trading organs like a certain other csm warband but this is much better. Great work man!

Personal note:I love Salvador, his "innocence" is the perfect contrast with the rest of the warband. Hoping to hear some more violin haha.

 Dayknight wrote:

 shinros wrote:

 Dayknight wrote:
Damn I liked tarkhan and Marius :(

Chaos is not fair! I loved them too. Also new chapter in about a second.

Haha and this is what makes you a great writer! Introducing and taking characters away really gets you invested in them and I'm never able to predict whose next, I swear you roll a D6 on their names sometimes.

This most recent chapter is fantastic, great work. I think that very last scene really drove home for me how far asriel has come. And honestly I'm usually able to somewhat predict the next chapter but I was so far off base with this one! I thought they were going to be trading organs like a certain other csm warband but this is much better. Great work man!

Personal note:I love Salvador, his "innocence" is the perfect contrast with the rest of the warband. Hoping to hear some more violin haha.

Maybe it's cause I love game of thrones? XD

Also thanks for the praise, one thing I wanted to make sure I hit with chaos the further up the chaos ladder you go the worse you get, what do you give up in order to get there? There always has to be a cost to even if it's small.

Oh and I am glad you like Salvador!

Chapter 39

The lower hive bustled with movement. Men and women on street corners handing out pamphlets to raise awareness of the kidnapped children and even priests marching ringing bells singing hymns to the emperor. Despite all of this going on around him his back ached from hard labour as he made his way home, he looked over to the grand buildings and apartment blocks, smog bellowing upwards. The factories churning out arms and armour for the armies of mankind. Looking at all of this he knew his place is here, but not for them not for his sons, he sighed and continued walking home. Approaching his small apartment block he took a brief look, the painting has fully peeled off, the building itself desperately needs maintenance. He slowly walked up the steps entering the apartment block, luckily he lives on the first floor, there are some unfortunate sods that live all the way on the 40th floor, since there is no lift they have to take the stairs.

But he counts his blessings when he can, the god-emperor has blessed him with a family, returning to it sets him at ease and he somewhat forgets the ache’s from work. He scratched his black hair and made his way up the steps to the first floor, he made his way to his apartment door and went to work at the door with his keys. Once the lock turned and he opened the door he walked in and what greeted him in the corridor are his children, two of them Adrian and Jonathan, Adrian is sixteen, while Jonathan is fourteen. Both had black hair like him but they both bore their mother’s green eyes. In instinct he looked over them “where is your mother?” Adrian frowned “she went out.” “again?” He sighed, the lower hives is not as crime ridden as the underhive but he worries for her going out all the time.

He leveled his gaze at his two boys “has your mother gone through the scriptures with you?” the eyes of both is his boys looked away and that said it all. “Right, then let’s get onto that then. Get your books I will meet you on the sofa in the living room.” His sons frowned slightly, the reason why he keeps them home and makes them study the scriptures is in order for them to get noticed by the local churches. The priests in the lower sectors are kind enough to put names forward to the ecclesiarchy, there have been many who have been taken away for local training or sent to the upper levels. He wants his children to be part of that group. Plus the added factor of the missing children it does worry him on some level but the arbites are known to be working on the case.

He rubbed his neck and walked down the corridor before entering the living room he always looked at their wedding photo. Back in the past his wife, Laura used to smile a lot but now she normally frowns or makes excuses to go out. He traced his eyes through the words that was printed at the bottom of the photo. “Leonard & Laura, together always.” he said out loud.

Leonard shook his head, he is thirty-eight years old and his wife is thirty-five it’s getting to the point they have to think hard on their kids future. They are not young anymore, yet his wife still acts like it. He grumbled slightly as he made his way to the living room and he looked upon their worn out sofa. He made his way to it and sat, despite the large chair being somewhat hard and uncomfortable to sit upon it helps his back somewhat.

After a few minutes of waiting his sons returned with their books, Adrian sat on the right and Jonathan on the left.“Right, Adrian pick out a passage.” said Leonard. His son nodded and opened his Lavitio Divnicus, he squinted his eyes slightly and started to read. “May we forever guard our souls from darkness, for to let even a fraction embellish our souls is to suffer damnation for all eternity. For the god-emperor is all powerful and all knowing, his gaze is far, watching for any sin or transgression, be ever watchful of those who wish to lead you astray. For there is no mercy for those who fall to darkness….” “Adrian what do you think that passage means?” his son tapped his chin with his finger “that there are bad people who wish to make us sin. The god-emperor is watching us and if we let our faith falter or be tainted he will punish us.” Leonard nodded “exactly, the arbites are also enforcers of the emperor’s law, hence why they are so strict. Follow the will of the god-emperor and no trouble should come to you.” as he spoke he yawned slightly the work in the factory catching up with him. “Right, Jonathan your turn.” his second son smiled. “For he is the light that guides, and the searing rays that destroys evil. He protects those who hold fast to their faith in the face of darkness…” as Jonathan read his eyes become heavy he yawned again.

He sat back in the chair slightly trying to hold his attention on his son’s words, his mind was drifting away, until eventually his heavy eyes closed.

It only felt like a moment before he felt someone tapping his leg, he grunted as his eyes slid open, the person before looked blurry, he could hear them speaking but it was muffled. He felt another tap, which caused him to rub his eyes to clear his vision. As his hands lowered from his face he saw his wife, in a fine dress, her ginger hair tied in a bob and what vexed him slightly is the makeup. Leonard yawned “where were you?” “out” his wife said firmly.

That single word caused him to scratch his head slightly in annoyance “you should of been at home going through the scriptures with Adrian and Jonathan.” Laura folded her arms “I would rather take them to the church or special religious centres! You want them to read their books so much yet you fell asleep in the middle of it!” Laura wasn’t exactly shouting but she is raising her voice to that point, “I am just trying to be careful, you know what’s going on the streets..” “the arbites are handling it! Look at me! I go out almost everyday and I am fine!”
Leonard grumbled “yes but you never know. I want my children to live till old age, I want them to have a better life. Perhaps even living near the top of the lower hive or even by the emperor’s grace the upper hive.” His wife sighed and sat down next to him “Leonard, the odds of getting chosen by the local church is so low, let me take the boys out tomorrow even if it does not have something to do with the church.” “no” he responded firmly. His wife did not protest further, they had this discussion several times before. She sighed and got up from the chair “I am going to bed, you should as well you have work tomorrow.” his wife left without another word, once alone he felt far more tired than before. “It would be awkward going to the bedroom...” he relaxed on the chair as best he could.

His eyes fluttered slightly before they slowly slid shut.

The bench was hard, uncomfortable but here he is in hive city Vestos. Asriel pouted in frustration he would rather be on the ship doing something more interesting and the drab brown robe he is wearing does not help his mood either. Yet Adelram decreed he wants to test the Anguis cult. In order to ensure things progress smoothly he also sent Difillia to his annoyance, her scrutinizing gaze made him want to pluck her eyes out. “At least I convinced hey to stay in the base while…” before he could finish a woman sat down next to him. They had a stack of pamphlets on their lap, Asriel smiled “what do you have there?” he asked. The woman turned her head to him, he could see she has been crying for some time. “Oh, you don’t know?” she wiped her eyes “we are trying to raise awareness to the kidnappings, no matter how we plead to the arbites they are not taking the case seriously…”

Asriel nodded, he spotted that it’s a rather large movement one he wants to exploit to its fullest extent. “I see, tell me who exactly is being kidnapped?” the woman sniffed “our children…” at the mention of children Asriel stroked his chin his tail would be swishing but the ritual’s to hide away the changes to his body were in effect. “I see have you talked to anyone about it?” The woman raised her eyebrow “What do you mean?” now the moment to drag them in. “Allow me to introduce myself” he reached out his hand “My name is Beleth.” the woman grasped it and shook “Natisha.”

As their hands parted he smiled “well Natisha I am part of an organisation called Auxilium, we are merely a small group, you can come to us and just talk about your problems. People will listen, perhaps give advice and maybe you might feel better from the experience.” describing his cult caused Natisha to raise her eyebrow slightly “are you with the church? Normally the priests turn us away due to “disturbing” the sanctity of their holy ground. They say that we should not even be…” “trying to raise awareness? Think of it this way you can speak of your movement at Auxilium I am sure that there will be many that will listen. That’s the point of it.” Natisha gave a small smile “so do you have a centre where you gather at?” Asriel nodded to his new possible devotee he reached into his pocket and handed a small card to her “just head to that location at dusk we run into the night if people are too afraid to head home we have some sleeping arrangements as well.” Natisha’s hand slowly edged to the card like something was holding her back oddly. At most Asriel guessed some vestige of her soul is trying to resist the call to excess and depravity. To start the journey to entropy. She took a deep breath and finally took the card from his hand “I will see if I can get a few friends to come.” “the more the merrier!” Asriel smiled. “As I said “we are just a small group where people can voice their thoughts and concerns freely without prejudice. I hope to see your there Natisha.” She nodded, her eyes are less fatigued and just by her face he could see some measure of happiness has come upon her. In the end that’s what Adelram wants through entropy people will be happy.

When he started the project he finally understood what his lord meant, Natisha then inclined her head to him “I will see you later then. Perhaps tonight?” “tonight.” said Asriel. Natisha placed the card in her pocket and rose from her seat, while grasping her remaining pamphlets she handed one out to him. “You do-” before she could say anything further Asriel took the pamphlet from her hands “I will give it a read.” Natisha smiled gently “thank you.” she turned away and vanished into the bustling crowd.

Asriel looked at the pamphlet and opened it up it talks of the general problem of the kidnappings, how the arbites are not doing enough. It also talks in some measure of that the church refuses to aid them as well, the criticism is bordering almost on the level to get someone arrested by the arbites. “They are fortunate the arbites have no interest in their movement….” he traced his eyes down the pamphlet to see small pictures of kids to teenagers, under each picture is a name and the contact details of the family.

As he read someone sat next to him again, he folded the pamphlet and placed it in his pocket this task is rather boring but it has to be done. He turned slightly to look upon the one who sat down and it wasn’t a new prospect but a member of his cult. Her hair is no longer multi-colored to her anguish, she had to have her hair changed to something that stands out less and the same rituals that has changed him is also affecting her. “Cartia, what is it?” Asriel said in hushed tones “High prelate...I am merely making a report.” “right, tell me how are things progressing on your end?” “the many centres of the cult are steadily recruiting people, the downtrodden, depressed and the beggars eagerly jump into the pits of depravity. The other’s who are unsure still help us in small ways unknowingly by spreading word of the organisation.” the information was pleasing to hear but he has something to add that could help them. He pulled out the pamphlet and held it before his head prelate “I want you to investigate the kidnappings, we can use this to our advantage.” Carita looked at the pamphlet and took it from his hands and placed it into her robe “it will be done. Oh, one more thing may you give me your hand?”

Asriel raised his eyebrow “why?” “to help with your boredom slightly.” “you must also be bored Cartia if you are asking me to do this.” in return all she gave is a coy smile, Asriel held out his hand it was like a flash her hand went into her robe and in a swift movement pierced his hand with a small knife. He lips trembled slightly as twisted it, to Asriel it hurt but it was not the same like the punishment Adelram inflicted upon him.

The grating boredom drifted somewhat as Carita did her work she frowned slightly as he barely reacted to the sensation. “It’s not enough is it…” “no it’s not, if this can help you a little I don’t mind. You enjoy inflicting pain more than receiving it.” at the mention he is allowing it for her caused the head prelate to drive the knife deeper, blood dripping onto the bench. “What of the people around us high prelate?” Corita whispered. “At most it might look like you are mugging me it’s normal in the lower hive so don’t worry. No one cares to do anything, beaten down by their masters and forced to accept their lot in life they wish to avoid getting involved in anything that would trouble them. Hence the push back to the kidnapping movement.” at his explanation the knife began rapidly moving which caused his eyebrow to twitch slightly.

He could see the head prelate is trying as much as possible not to make a sound, trying with all her might to control her facial expression as she moved the knife, once satisfied she quickly removed the blade and placed her hood on. “I feel… better.” Cartia then turned her body away slightly along with the bloodied knife as she mentioned she feels better Asriel looked at his hand. The hole in his hand is quite large he sighed and flexed his fingers slightly to release a small surge of power into the injury the blood slowly began to dissipate into nothing and the wound on his hand slowly closed. “Satisfied?” said Asriel. The head prelate turned back towards him the bloodied knife now clean. She licked her lips “Yes, I am. I shall get to work on your request.” she placed the knife back into her robe and rose from the bench. “I will be going please do be careful.” he watched Cartia vanish into the crowd, he hoped that she would find the information he requires. If the situation surrounding this issue is handled correctly he will have a lot of converts on his hands.

As he was thinking he felt the bench moving, another person has sat down next to him Asriel gave a small grin.

He sat at the bar drinking a cocktail, it was not an expensive drink but it’s the best one could get in the middle of lower hive. Even the bar itself was showing its age flooring is uneven, tables are heavily chipped as well. In the end the only reason he comes here is for one reason. One reason only and it waited for it. All the time, he let’s her chose the place and it’s always somewhere in the middle but she’s a charmer so he relents, he heard the bar door opening the bell ringing and there she was.

She walked over slowly, wearing one of her dresses, it was not too outlandish which is something he liked, her hair is not heavily stylized either and the make up is not overdone either. As she approached she smiled “Victor.” he rose from his chair and pulled out a seat for her “Laura, it’s good to see you again.” she held her smile as she sat but he could tell she was thinking about something.

Victor sat in his seat next to her and called to the bartender “cocktail for the lady please.” the bartender nodded and got to work, he looked over to Laura sho seemed on edge slightly. “What’s the matter?” “nothing.” she said quietly. “Are you sure? We have been dating for a few years now. I can tell when something is wrong.” “it’s nothing, I was just thinking about a few things. Now let’s stop being serious how have you been?” Victor could see she is trying to divert the conversation so he will let it drop for now, since he has no desire to ruin their date “yesterday’s outing was pretty good let’s keep up the good mood.” as they talked the bartender placed his partner’s cocktail in front of her she took a sip. “This taste’s far better than the cocktails in the lower parts of the lower hive.” Victor took a sip from his own glass “perhaps if you moved in with me you could enjoy better ones…” as the topic came up she gave a weak smile “maybe…”

At the mention of maybe his heart jumped before it was always the case of taking care of old family members which has kept her in her old home. “Really? What of your parents?” Laura looked away slightly “things are becoming hard at home they say that I should seek happiness instead of being cooped up in the house taking care of them.” “I see, I hope your mother and father will be able to take care of themselves.” he watched Laura drain the rest of her cocktail as he mentioned her parents she gestured to the bartender with the glass “can you prepare a refill?” she placed the glass on the counter. “Victor just give me a few days at least.” She leaned forward and kissed him as she leaned back after the kiss she said “just a few days.” at the mention of days he smiled “don’t worry I can wait. After all it’s been a few years.”

The prospect of Laura moving in made him excited, one day marriage might be in the distance but things have to be taken one step at a time. As he was thinking the bartender placed his partner’s requested cocktail glass on the bar table, as she sipped at it he could see her charming smile playing across her face.

The labour at the factory today was hard, Leonard found his back hurt more than usual normally he does not stop on the way home but thought to take some time to sit on the bench and drink a bottle of water. The water is not exactly clean, but it’s not going to cause an upset stomach so almost everyone on this level of the lower hive drink it. Yet what was bothering him since he sat down is that for some reason his nose tingles slightly at a strange aroma, it was not a bad or good aroma it was just strange, different it was the kind of smell that is trying to grab his attention. He then heard a yawn next to him he turned to see a young man with dark skin, the most distinguishing thing about him is that he has a single eye.

As their eyes met he smiled “why hello there.” Leonard in instinct looked away “sorry for staring.” “don’t worry about it” said the young man. He went back to sipping his water the young man spoke again “that’s not good for you.” he stopped drinking “I never got sick drinking this, almost everyone drinks this water.” he continued, Leonard wondered why this stranger is even talking to him. “Even if it lowers your lifespan?” at the mention of lifespan he spat out of the water. “What!?”

He turned to the young man “are you playing some trick on me!?” he shook his head in response “no, my… parents were doctors that spent a great amount of their time examining the water of this section of the hive. Once they bought it up, they vanished and the arbites took my eye. So, now I run a help group and hand out fresh beverages to keep people healthy.” “help group?” said Leonard. “Yes, it’s called Auxilium it’s a place where people can talk about their problems and freely accept or refuse advice. It takes place at dusk and goes into the night but we have made sleeping arrangements available.” “Auxilium…” Leonard said slowly “are you with the church in some form?” “no” the young man responded “it’s an organisation made by the people for the people. But priests do attend, even those who are part of the kidnapping movement attend. Even the downtrodden attend, they get a warm meal, water and a place to rest.” to Leonard the description of this organisation sounds like something a priest would put together but at the same time the generosity of mankind should not be underestimated. At the same time priests attend, this might also be a way to build connections to get his sons into the church.

He stroked his chin “do you have a card? I am actually quite interested.” the young man gave a gentle smile that set off him slightly, but for some reason he could trust him. He went into his pocket and pulled out a card and held it out. “My name is Beleth, what's yours?” he took the card smiling back to the young man “Leonard, I tell you Beleth I think your parents would be proud.” at the mention of his parents he gave a sad smile “at least I hope so, a parting gift from me.” he went into his robe and pulled out a bottle of water, but what was special the water was that it is clear and pristine.

Leonard took the bottle staring at it, he was mesmerized “where did you get this?” Beleth smirked “it’s been filtered and the necessary vitamins have been added to aid in daily activity.” as Beleth described the water he unscrewed the top and gave it a sip. It tasted clean, it flowed easily down his mouth. Plus a strange vigour filled him. “This is...great!” “I am glad you like it! I would like to talk further but I must go.” Beleth rose from the bench “the meeting would be starting soon. Will you be attending?” he scratched his head “I got a few things to handle at home, perhaps tomorrow.” the young man gave a curt nod “very well. Do enjoy the water.” he then turned away and vanished into the crowd.

Once he was left by himself he stared at the bottle of water and got up from the bench instead of taking a sip he backed it slightly. The liquid washing down his throat he felt energized, the ache in his back is vanishing slightly as well. He then licked his lips and screwed the top on. “I wonder if he would let me take a few bottles for my kids?” the thought that the water they normally drinked lowered their life span chilled him somewhat. If that was the case he wondered why such a thing is sold in shops, plus it’s easily accessible through kitchen taps.

Even so there is a slight spring in his step for once in a long time he smiled as he walked home.

Now back in his apartment he called out Adrian! Jonathan!” both his boys ran out of the side rooms and smiled “your home dad!” said Adrian, he inclined his head to his boy “yes I am where is your mother?” “out” said Jonathan in a flat tone. He sighed at the news as always since she has been going out his own kids started to learn how to cook since he never had time to do it himself. He creased his brow in frustration “I see have you went through your scriptures while I was away?” Jonathan scratched the back of his head “we decided to make sure to read it this time since you are always tired when you come home.” at the mention that they read their books without his input bought a measure of happiness to his heart.

Looking at both of them he remembered his talk with Beleth, the meeting should be going on at the moment or close to starting. “For once, I need to go out.” Adrian frowned “where?” Leonard pulled out a card “it’s a help group called Auxilium even priests go there, people go and talk about their problems. I hope to at least make friends with an attending priest for your sake.” at the mention of the talking about problems Jonathan’s eyes lit up “will they be able to fix mother’s problem?” at the mention of his wife he could not help but shake his head “I doubt it.” “why not? You said this is a help group.” he rubbed his head at his son’s question they might be able to help but this problem has been going on for so long now he doubts it would change. “Perhaps they might be able to, now since it’s getting late I want both of you to hop off to bed.” both his boys nodded and left for their rooms.

Once they were gone he walked to the living room he looked at the small side table “right better leave a note for her just in case.” he reached into his pocket and pulled out a paper and pen. He wrote a small note detailing where he is going and how long for. He should be back late in the night. Once satisfied he left the note on the table and turned to the door to make his way to the help group.

The street the building was located on was not exactly out of the way to Leonard’s surprise as he stared at the building he could see it’s in a similar condition to his own apartment block, he spotted two guards standing at the doors. He walked up to them “I am here to attend the help group.” the two men at the doors looked at each other the one on the right spoke “do you have a card?” he pulled the card out of his pocket “it’s here.”the guard that spoke stared at it and smiled “right you can come in. here is your mask.” he went into his robe and pulled out a wooden mask with an open mouth it was the size that you can clearly see one’s lips. “What’s with the masks?” asked Leonard. The guard frowned “it’s to protect people who attend, people can still be unsavoury in the lower levels. This is to ensure no trouble is caused.”

As Leonard heard the reasoning he did not like it exactly but could understand why, some people might say something personal and use it against them. “Right, I will take the mask.” he reached out and grasped it. The guard nodded “right, you will place it on here and you will also leave one at a time and hand the mask back to us.” As the guard explained he began fastening the mask to his face. “Got, so can I go in?”

The guard who explained the system stared at the mask for a moment, he then turned to work on unlocking the door. He then pushed the door open slightly “you may go in.” just for a second Leonard felt himself holding back, that there might be something wrong going on. It only lasted a moment before he walked in, as he walked down the hallway he smelled a strange incense that relaxed him somewhat he felt comfortable. It’s like he did not even work today, eventually he reached a hall were the walls were covered in pink silks he could tell right away the incense is stronger in this room. It did not exactly bother him for some reason. He looked to the centre of the room and what he saw is a group of people were sitting on chairs in a circle.

Some stared at him, others were silently weeping, he tried not the stare at people as he made his way to an empty to seat. Looking around just going by the clothes he could see that there are many people who come from various levels of the lower hive. He waited in silence for a few minutes until eventually someone in a brown robe came out of one of the side doors they wore a wooden mask and sat on one of the seats.

He clapped to get everyone’s attention “I am glad you could attend this gathering. Now to get started I suggest those who are new should pick out nicknames for themselves. It’s just a precaution those who don’t know me you may call me Tenebris.” as the masked figure spoke he knew right away who it was, he recognised the voice. As Beleth finished speaking people began introducing themselves giving out their nicknames.

Eventually it came to him, everyone stared at him waiting for an answer, he tried to quickly think up a name. “You can call me Custos.” Beleth inclined his head “good name, so how about we get started?” he gestured to the one next to him “you speak your name and then you may speak about anything you desire. If someone wishes to input you may raise your hand and say I, then your name and that you wish to speak after that you may speak as normal.” The man who looked somewhat pudgey and bore grey hairs gave a sad sigh “you may call me magister, the problem I have...is certain individuals blocking the future of our young. You see many of you know of the church programs to induct promising children as scribes? It’s being blocked by those above, I disagree aggressively with the decision but my hands are tied. I personally don’t know what to do…” Magister looked down slightly “the priests in the upper hive and spires considers those who live in the lower and underhive to be… “gutter rats.”” the mention of the term gutter rats caused leonard to clench his hands. Plus the fact that priests above are actually looking to prevent their kids from have a better future. He could see many in the room are not taking the information well, it’s clear enough Magister is a priest in the lower hive and he now understands why they have codenames and masks.

A woman raised her hand “I, Luctus wish to speak, with the kidnappings and this information I wonder do the arbites and priests above us actually care what’s going on? We can’t even protest such decisions!” Luctus’ outburst caused everyone to nod in agreement, Leonard even found himself nodding he cares about his sons more than anything the news that their own water is killing them, along with Magisters testimony angered him. He slowly raised his hand “I, Custos wish to speak. Magister I hope this is not true, I have sons that I wish to have enter the church. They read their scriptures almost everyday, what you just said troubles me greatly. Is there anyway you can rally priests to your cause?” Magister shook his head “they are all too frightened to go against those above.” Leonard began clenching his hands tighter “I recently also found out the water we all drink lowers our life span. This news and the kidnappings...don’t they care?” At the mention of water everyone started murmuring in confusion he looked to the person who he assumed to be Beleth who gestured to quieten the crowd down. “Leonard speaks truly, why do you think you are allowed to leave with the water we provide? It was partly because of that discovery we started this.” as Beleth spoke everyone shook their heads in clear disbelief, others in anger.

Magister sighed, to Leonard he sounded weary “the sins that mankind does upon another shames the memory of the god-emperor…I am done for now, I will try to rally members again. I thank you for listening to me.” Beleth smiled “right who wishes to speak next?” Luctus raised her hand “I do. I wish to speak of the kidnappings our children are being taken, spirited away. I assumed the gangs of the underhive had something to do with it but the Arbites won’t budge...” Luctus began crying slightly behind her mask “My girl was only fourteen… we went to visit the church a large crowd barreled into us and then she was gone... I tried to raise awareness...but no one seems interested in doing anything…” Leonard did not know how Luctus can handle losing her child at most he guessed the movement is what is keeping her grounded.

He hoped, he prayed that he would never be in that position. He raised his hand again “I, Custos wish to speak. I will try and raise awareness in my work place it’s the least I can do. I have children myself.” his words caused everyone to agree to at least raise awareness in their circles which in turn caused Luctus to rise from her seat and bow “thank you! All of you!” she slowly sat back down on her chair, she lifted her mask slightly to wipe the tears.

The hall grew silent again, Beleth gestured to them “who wishes to speak next?” as he spoke he could see no one was raising their hands. At this moment Leonard did not want to say anything, but for some reason the memory of his son asking to speak out at this meeting surfaced in his mind. He found himself slowly raising his hand “I wish to speak…” everyone’s eyes locked on him. He sighed “you heard how I mentioned I have my kids reading the scriptures? Their mother and my wife is meant to go through with it them. Since I spend most of my time working I normally don’t get the chance to do so. The issue is that my wife goes out a lot. Sometimes it feels like she does not care for our boys future…” As he spoke someone raised their hand, a skinny man who was bald. “I, Noctis wishe to speak. Custos how often does your wife go out? There is nothing wrong with that in itself but if I was her I would be with my children a hundred percent.” the question caused him to rub his neck “the issue has been going on for several years actually. I normally have to go through the scriptures with my boys but due to the work I fall asleep in the middle of it. She normally arrives some time after I come home. Perhaps an hour or more.” His words caused people to whisper and shake their heads. Luctus raised her hand “I, Luctus wish to speak. Considering the nature of the lower hive we have to think about our children’s future. A future that has most likely been stolen from my little girl, I mean no ill intent Custos but your wife is being irresponsible.” Luctus words caused everyone to nod in agreement, Magister raised his hand “I Magister, wish to speak. I don’t wish to be rude but… have you considered the possibility she is...being unfaithful to you?”

Leonard ground his teeth as Magister spoke “she would never do that” he said firmly “but Custos from what you have told me you are a father who seems to be working hard to ensure your children have a future. Along with working in the factory that’s a lot of work and you say your wife has been going out flaunting her duty to her kids for several years. By the god-emperor I hope I am wrong but to me it does not seem right. What I see is a kind man who does not wish to think ill of their partner.” As Magister spoke it started to click in his head, the possibility, it’s clear enough he is priest considering how he just spoke. He has most likely heard this story thousands of times before. He shook his head slowly “I-I...will think on your words.”

Eventually a silence came upon them and Beleth asked the same question again, soon after people got talking and the things he heard shocked him. Arbites beating on homeless, people being evicted from their homes for no reason, possible gang members seeking a better life. All these stories made him realise that maybe his own problems are small but at the same time for once speaking of it out loud he felt better. Once everyone seems to be done talking Beleth clapped “right, I am sure all of you are hungry and thirsty due to talking now it’s time for the meal.” he clapped one more time and out of the side door came a robed person pushing a small food cart that had plates of food and bottled water stacked upon it.

The smell from the food caused Leonard’s mouth to water slightly, he could see steak and vegetables. Beleth got up from his seat and began handing out the plates from the cart along with the water. Once everyone had a meal he gestured outwards with his hands “eat, the cutlery is with the plates.” At once everyone started eating, Leonard could clearly see the mouth slit in the mask is big enough to fit food and the bottle cap through. He looked down to his own food for a moment his stomach rumbled heavily, yet he was apprehensive for some reason. That his mind is telling him not to eat, but his hunger overcame him he picked up his knife and fork that was placed on the plate and began eating.

The meat was succulent, the vegetables were cooked to perfection, at least he thought so, he even found himself eating too quickly and needed to drink some of the water. The clean water with the meal caused his cheeks to flush slightly the meal consumed his mind, the headache dealing with his wife, the pain from work all vanished. All he had was the meal to enjoy, soon everyone was finished. He tapped his stomach in satisfaction, “that was good.” said Leonard.

Beleth then bowed “I am glad everyone enjoyed their meals, now this session is finished for today. Please leave your plates and empty bottles on the chairs and those who...need accommodation will stay behind. If you wish to take some of the water there is paper bags on the food cart.” he then gestured to him “Custos you can leave first.” as his nickname was called he perked up and rose from his seat. He placed his plate and bottle on his chair. He was going to leave right away but his eyes diverted to the cart for a moment and he found himself walking over he picked up a paper bag and walked to the exit. He turned his head back to the group “thank you for the advice I will think about it.” despite everyone wearing masks he got the feeling they were smiling at him.

He faced the exit and walked out once outside he handed his mask back to the guards and walked home. Even though it was late and he worked in the same day he did not feel tired, it was like a great burden was lifted from his shoulders. “Perhaps it is good to talk about things in some measure…” his mind drifted to the meeting, the things he learned also vexed him that those who are meant to protect and guide them are trying to keep them down. Or even sabotaging their lives. At least he has the water so his sons no longer need to drink a liquid that is killing them.

The only sad thought from the meeting is the fact that he has to find another means to get a better future for his boys. He grumbled slightly as his mind ran through possible solutions and plans.

*grumble* noticed a few repeating words going to make a few small edits.

I have been following both your stories and would like to say that you are a talented writer.

I do have one suggestion:

When you change character perspectives in the story it would be less jarring to the reader if you did something to signify the change. Something simple like a line of: "xxxxxxxxxxx' between paragraphs.

 complex57 wrote:
I have been following both your stories and would like to say that you are a talented writer.

I do have one suggestion:

When you change character perspectives in the story it would be less jarring to the reader if you did something to signify the change. Something simple like a line of: "xxxxxxxxxxx' between paragraphs.

Thanks! Still got a long way to go need to practice. Now what do you mean like xxxxxxx? Reading Horus Hersey and other books they just start a new scene with the next paragraph in chapters when switching characters I do feel there are more ways I can introduce the scene better though.

 shinros wrote:

 complex57 wrote:
I have been following both your stories and would like to say that you are a talented writer.

I do have one suggestion:

When you change character perspectives in the story it would be less jarring to the reader if you did something to signify the change. Something simple like a line of: "xxxxxxxxxxx' between paragraphs.

Thanks! Still got a long way to go need to practice. Now what do you mean like xxxxxxx? Reading Horus Hersey and other books they just start a new scene with the next paragraph in chapters when switching characters I do feel there are more ways I can introduce the scene better though.

For Example:

Paragraph 1 - description of Asriel doing something awesome planetside.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (just to show that a change in perspective is coming)

Paragraph 2 - Adelram sitting in his throne room plotting something.

Just a suggestion, there is nothing wrong with the way you are doing things though.

Oh I see thanks for the suggestion. I do think there are some things I could do better when switching characters. I do apperciate your words its so nice to see a new poster!

Chapter 40
The operating theatre was slick with blood he has begun the process of treating the gene-seed of the warband members who are not of the third legion’s stock. Izel’s procedure has been completed, Marthas is the final one. He stared at Marthas who is blinking with one eye staring at the lights that shined down upon him as tubes of the Phoenicians luminsicent blood was fed into his system. “Is...t-this necessary…” he slurred. “Do you mean feeding my father’s blood into your body? Yes it is” said Adelram. “I made some modifications to my father’s blood that is being fed into your system, I mixed it with a few of my flowers. I am also having Caius replace the combat stimulants in everyone’s power armour with this mixture. I am sure when we make war on Vestos it will be enjoyable for everyone.” “I-I hope so…” Marthas slurred again.

He knew that would be the case, he tested the mixture on himself first, the eruption of colour and sensation almost reminded him of the pleasures of the palace. He could see why the cult is so fanatical in pursuing pain and delivering it. Adelram even had to admit a part of him ached to be on world giving people the joy he now feels. He just needs to be patient, “right, Marthas do you feel any different?” he placed the last gene-seed to be treated back into his body. He stared at the apostle who said “I…..I….feel” he was now longer slurring “I see….liquid iron hands holding a hammer, I see….a battlefield as our father removes a head….I….” he smiled hearing this information “you see when our father killed Ferrus Manus? Is that it?” Marthas slowly nodded “I see raven guard, salamanders and irons hands fighting, wearing ancient armour...their faces in the fixature of disbelief and fury…” the reaction pleased Adelram when he was doing Izel’s procedure as his gene-seed was treated and placed within his body he began rapidly deteriorating, specs of dust began falling off his gene-seed he had to complete the operation while holding his soul together after divining the cause. He guessed in some measure whatever ritual Ahriman committed upon the thousands sons affected those who did not turn to dust.

In the end Marthas is having a pleasing reaction at the same time he wondered how this procedure would effect the legions. “I have to keep my father’s blood secret…” something of this magnitude must never leave the warband, even the third should not know of it. What he has in the bowels of the ship is a well of corruption that can annihilate the core of a legionnaire. “Marthas can you say anything else?” “What do you mean? I feel fine.” he looked at him in confusion “what were you talking about before Adelram?” what Marthas just said caused him to raise his eyebrow “you were speaking of Horus’war upon the imperium. When our father killed the primarch of the Iron Hands.” “I was?” Marthas said in confusion.

The confusion concerned Adelram slightly, but the procedure is done he began closing up Marthas’ chest he smiled “we are truly brothers now Marthas.” “I don’t feel any different…” his reaction caused Adelram to turn up the dosage on his father’s blood, Marthas seized up on the operating table. “Once your power armour is outfitted you will feel like this all the time in battle Marthas.” he lowered the dosage, his brother slowly began to relax his eyes fluttered. He suddenly gasped “turn it back up!” Both of Marthas’ eyes flashed open wide in a mad frenzy “turn it back up Adelram!”

He ignored Marthas’ protest as he began removing the tubes “no, that was just a taste. Now up you get.” Marthas grumbled in annoyance as he closed his mutated eye, slowly he calmed down and sat up right.“So how long will Asriel take?” his question made him pull out the orb he uses to communicate with Defillia “according to Defillia she feels Asriel is moving too slowly. Or perhaps it’s her jealousy speaking.” “Are you sure it’s wise sending both of them together?” Adelram played with the orb in his hands “sending her will keep Asriel alert, but you are correct reports come in everyday…” He looked to the door. “Salvador! Come in!” at his command the door opened his bestial servant smiled as soon as he trotted into the room he slipped on the blood and crashed on the ground. “Ouch! Ouch!” he cried.

He slowly got up rubbing his bottom “do you need me master?” “Yes, I do I need a way to make Asriel work more effectively do you have any ideas?” Salvador scratched his head “why not get him a present if he does well?” his servant’s answer caused him to shake his head “Asriel is not one for awards.” “How do you know?” said Marthas. “He has been changed since ingesting your father’s blood for several months. Along with eating hearts full of his essence.” Both Marthas and Salvador are ganging up on him he sighed “very well…” he held the orb and sent his thoughts into it. The orb began shining brightly as a circular glass coalesced above it, Difillia’s face appeared. “I have considered your reports and I will act upon it.” “You will!?” Difillia exclaimed. “Yes, I will now put Asriel on.”

The image in the glass shifted slightly and eventually he saw Asriel’s face “right-” “so you are really taking her side?” Asriel said firmly. Adelram didn't even get the chance to speak he shook his head. “No, not exactly I thought I will give you a better incentive.” “I don’t need a reward. I will get it done, corruption and entropy will spread to the lower hive.” “I know you will do that Asriel but let me say this. If you make your plan grander, if you bring true excess to the lower hive I will get you a rack.” At the mention of a rack he furrowed his brow. “I can’t use it by myself.” the reaction surprised Adelram, he could see his servant wants it. “Right I will use it once with you. Each week.”

Asriel finally smiled he then frowned a second later “once a week? I don’t need it.” he looked around the operating theatre he made the face clearly showing that he told them so. His servant is not one for rewards. He watched Salvador gesturing to raise the reward he whispered “bargain with him!” he faced the glass “twice a week.” that’s it.

Asriel held his frown “twice a day.” Adelram’s eyes went wide “twice a day!? I have important matters to attend to!” “then I am not interested in the rack, the plan is going smoothly my lord.” Adelram grumbled a part of him wanted Asriel to become like this, in the end this is just a case of being careful for what you wish for. “Fine tw-” “I changed my mind, Three times a day Adelram.” Adelram’s mouth hanged for a moment he creased his brow “three times a day!?” “yes, I know you have nothing better to do than water you flowers or feed Salvador. Actually can you throw in the knives used in the punishment? You were quite good with those.” He did not know what to say to this. He shook his head “I am the lord of the warband Asriel, I said once a week. Now you are just taking advantage? Once a week, take it or leave it.” he said firmly

He watched Asriel’s eyes began to water slightly which caused him to sigh heavily “As I said, I am the lord, cr-” “See whenever I do something good for you! You throw me around! Break my bones! I still remember the church! All I ask is for my lord to use the rack three times a day! That’s it!” Adelram frowned “As-” “The plan is going smoothly! Converts are pouring in! You never reward me! Is it too much to ask!?” he sighed again heavily “very well...three times a day... I expect greatness. Do you understand me?” As soon as he agreed the tears vanished Asriel looked how he was before and he smiled. “I will get it done my lord thank you.”

Soon as Asriel agreed the scene within the glass moved back to Difillia at this point he no longer felt like talking and turned it off. As the glass vanished he eyed Salvador and Marthas. “He has changed.”

Asriel smiled ear to ear as he stood in the basement of their abode, it’s soundproof, covered in pink silks while bronze masked servants who are recent converts serve food and wine to the prelates who are lounging on large cushions.

Those who desire accommodation sleep on the upper floors and are fed wine and food laced with higher concentrations of Fulgrim’s blood. In but a few days they slowly take to darker excesses. Now his lord is offering him a reward for doing more, he looked at Difillia who is now frowning “he is offering a reward…” she hissed. “Since I am his best servant, he cares for me the most.” said Asriel. Speaking in such a manner caused Difillia to scowl “you will not meet his standards…” “how sure are you Difillia? Since he is giving me a reward I think I will make something for him” he stroked his chin “it must be ready before he arrives on world…” “focus on that task!” shouted Difillia.

His “example” shouting caused him to shrug “why must you be so boring Difillia? I am focusing on the task. He wants something more I will give it to him….” he then heard the coded knock on the basement door. The guard went to work removing all the locks and opened the door. Walking down the steps he saw Carita who is smiling, she bowed “high prelate. I have returned from my investigation.” Asriel gestured to Carita “see Defillia? My grander plan is coming together” “Right, then “favoured servant” what is your grand plan.” he gave a grin to the head prelate “tell me Carita what have you found out?” “the kidnappings is being done by a rather large gang in the underhive. They have a monopoly on the business on that level none can stand up to them. It was not hard to track their movements, they normally spirit the young ones away at the grand church in the lower hive. Considering how many people are there it’s easy to steal people away.” The information she gave him is perfect he licked his lips “let’s allow that gang to work for awhile longer and then we will snap our jaws shut on them.” Carita seemed slightly confused “what do you mean snap out jaws shut high prelate?”

Asriel spread his arms out “I mean we won’t be bored. We will show this gang the joys of the galaxy..but for now? patience….”

Leonard returned home from another help group meeting, since attending them he feels better when he comes home. He learns new things about people and even gives advice. Plus the food and drinks are not bad either. One thing that pains him is that he does not share the water, he is not sure what is exactly in it, but a part of him is telling him not to give it to his kids. He hasn’t had any himself but he stores it just in case. He smiled as he walked to the living room, his back no longer aching when he entered he saw his wife sitting on the chair in her nightgown. “You come home late from work these days…” he grumbled annoyance when the help group advised him on the possibility that she is being unfaithful they talk less. He did not want it to be true. “As I said, I am visiting a help group. There is even a priest that attends.” his wife raised her eyebrow “but you look relaxed and hearty even. I hear those sorts of groups are filled with miserable people. Are you sure you are not doing anything else?” he can see the accusation laced in her words, it just annoyed him even more. “If you think I am seeing a woman you are wrong. I am going there for the sake of our kids!”

Laura looked sternly at him “I see I won’t pry further, well I have been thinking. I won’t be going out anymore.” he blinked rapidly in surprise “what? W-why?” “why not? I have to think of the children. For their sake I am staying home tomorrow.” the news caused a smile to line his face “I see...thank you.” His wife rose from the chair “Now I am going to bed. Make sure you get some rest.” She walked past him and went to their room.

Once alone he did not know what to think, he walked over to the sofa and sat down the smile still on his face. “Perhaps they are wrong? Just maybe?” his heart relaxed “she is faithful I know it..” once in a long time he decided to get up and go to their bedroom.

Laura woke up in their bed, it was strange yesterday that they decided to share the bed for once, she moved her hand through the creased spot where her husband slept at this moment he should be at work. Overall she did not understand what he was doing coming home late at night but these past few days he is happy. It can’t be a simple help group, “he must be seeing someone else…” she thought. There is no other reason, just like her he is seeking a new life.

This is the last day in this small flat, she has told Victor at least a half truth in the last few dates, that she has two kids from a previous relationship. She thought that he would leave her if he found out but to her shock he accepted it. “He is so nice..” she whispered. This all started when Leonard wanted their sons to join the church, she was not against it at first until she saw more of what the priests do to themselves. Plus Victor lives near the top of the lower hive and owns a small business. Her sons could actually have a proper life.

She rose from the bed “I need to get ready.” she hopped out of the bed and got her clothes ready in a small bag. She dressed herself for travel once fully dressed she walked to the living to see her sons reading. She smiled “I want all of you to put your travel clothes on. We are going somewhere.” Adrian looked up “but dad said we should not leave the house?” Jonathan silently nodded in agreement. Laura smiled to her boys “well today he said we can go out. We will be passing the grand church!” mentioning the grand church she saw the eyes of her boys lit up. They ran out of the living room to get ready.

It only took them a few minutes to return, both were beaming at the prospect of seeing it. She smiled “now let’s go!” All of them walked out of the apartment, she held both their hands as she took her sons to their new life.

Walking the streets to get to the bar she usually meets Victor she had to pass the grand church at the moment it was bustling with people. Laura held the hands of Adrian and Jonathan tightly. In reaction Adrian frowned “mum we don’t need to hold hands! I am sixteen!” “does not matter, to me you are still my child it’s easy to get lost here.” She walked them through the large crowds, people pushing and shoving singing hymns. She wanted to get through this quickly, Jonathan called out “Mum, you are going the wrong way! The church is back there!” “I know I said we will be passing the grand church.” She looked forward and through the crowd she saw several large men pushing forward. She did not like the look of them, she tried to go around but it was to tight, the group of men suddenly charged right into her knocking her down. She felt her grip loosening on the hands of Adrian and Jonathan.

Winded she gasped “Adrian! Jonathan!” she tried to get to her feet she heard them screaming for her mixed in with the prayers and hymns of the people. As she got to her feet she frantically looked around “Adrian! Jonathan!” she repeated. Their screams were growing distant. She began barging and pushing people in the crowd trying to find her sons.

She panted and cried out for a third time “Adrian! Jonathan! Where are you!” all she could hear now is the hymns and prayers to the god-emperor.

He waited in bar while having a drink, today is the day she moves in with him along with her kids. He wondered what kept her, but he could understand why. He wondered what it’s like for a woman to bring up two kids by themselves in such a time, after today that won’t be the case. Victor took a sip from his cocktail “it might take them a long time to call me dad...but I can wait…” if he had to be honest with himself he was never good with women but as he kept saying to himself Laura was a charmer.

He was about to take another sip until he heard the bar door opening he stared at the door and he could see Laura, tears running down her face. He got up from his chair and almost run over to her “what’s wrong!?” asked Victor. Laura looked up to him tears still in her eyes “t-they a-are…..gone…I-I can’t find them….” he grasped her in a hug “tell me Laura...who is gone?” she cried on his shoulder as she whispered “my sons...are gone…”

The news caused Victor’s heart to constrict he leaned back slightly looking at her face “we should go to the arbites and report it.” She slowly nodded without a word. Victor escorted her out of the bar, a great day has just turned into a terrible one.

Victor waited with Laura in the Arbite lounge the queue long with people shouting at speakers while Arbites write out forms behind the bullet proof glass. He could see that Laura was almost catatonic with grief he rubbed her shoulder “we will wait our turn and report it. I am sure they will find them.” Laura did not even nod she sniffed slightly.

In the end it almost took an hour for them to reach the desk. The arbite was female her face covered in scars and she wore full combat armour. She flaty said “what’s the problem.” Victor nodded “I wish to report a kidnapping.” the arbite sighed and pulled out a form “you people should take better care of your children if they vanishing on you. Fill out this form.” she pushed a yellow form and a pen through a small hole that was about the size of a letter box.

The callousness of the arbite made Victor want to bark back, but held his tongue. Saying the wrong thing can get you a beating he sighed and looked at the form. It wanted the name of the reporter, the name of those missing and a basic description. The form was pretty bare to his surprise, he looked over to his partner “Laura I think you should fill the form. That way the Arbites at least have a description of the boys.” In response she slowly picked up the pen and began filling out the details.

Once done she pushed the form and pen back to the arbite, she took the form and placed it in a large folder. She faced them again “right, it’s been logged but I doubt they are alive.” Victor clenched his hands “how can you say that? They m-” “they are most likely dead. If you have seen the scum of the underhive you will shudder in fear. We are responding to thousands of large crimes, these kidnappings? Are petty crimes compared to what we normally deal with. Now you filed the form move over for the next person.” Victor ground his teeth. He sighed heavily as he escorted Laura out of the Arbite station, he rubbed her back “How about we go back to my place? So you can rest up?” Laura slowly nodded.

Seeing her in such a state broke his heart, but all he can do is comfort her as the arbites do their work.

Leonard whistled as he walked home, he was slightly tired but today was different, today felt right. He decided against visiting Auxilium he wants to be with his family, for once in a long time his whole family will be at home. Approaching the aparments he almost ran up the stairs while holding a grin. He walked up to the first floor and opened the door to his apartment.

He called out “I am home!” what greeted him was silence, it was odd he went to the living room it was empty. He scratched his head he then checked each the rooms and all of them were empty. He returned to the corridor and began pacing “she wouldn’t take them out would she…?” he instantly ran out of the apartment.

In a mad panic he checked the usual places she spoke of taking the kids to, yet he saw no sign. Dusk, slowly turned to night his heart beating rapidly in his chest. He searched again and again. Eventually he found himself sitting on a bench in the middle of the night, his heart beating rapidly “w-where...would they go…?” His heart began crumbling at a dark possibility. “Have they been kidnapped?” his teeth chittered he then felt someone else sitting on the bench he looked up to the left and saw a familiar face staring forward, it took a moment for Beleth to notice he smiled “oh hello Leonard.” “t-the meeting is over?”

Beleth smiled “yes, but I can see you have bigger problems.” Leonard shook his head tears starting to run down his face “m-my family is missing…” “I see, have you visited the Arbites about this?” “n-no I haven’t.” Beleth rose from the bench “well let’s go then, you never know.” Leonard slowly got up and nodded he had nothing left to lose, this might be a shot in the dark but there might be a chance.

Standing, with Beleth in Arbite station they waited in line, Beleth yawned “I am sorry…you must be tired...” said Leonard. “Think nothing of it. You needed help this is the least I can do.” they waited for about an hour until they reached the desk he could see a female Arbite whose face is covered in scars. Leonard cleared his throat as best as best he could “Excuse me, I wish to report a possible kidnapping…” the arbite rolled her eyes “r-” Beleth placed his hand on the small desk “how about we check to see if there is a missing report first? Your wife might have friends who might of reported her missing already.”“w-what are you doing?” “What I am doing? I am asking if it’s possible that might be a report.” The female arbite frowned “fine, what’s the name is the missing people?” Leonard slowly nodded “Laura, Adrian and Jonathan.”

The Arbite picked up a large folder and flicked through it eventually picking out one “well there was a report filed by someone named Laura, reporting two missing kids. One Fourteen and another sixteen. Black hair, green eyes…” As the arbite read out the report he shook his head “b-but how did she file the report? She was not at home! I checked all the places she talked about…” The arbite closed the folder “well she was with another male, looked slightly younger than you, ginger hair and blue eyes.” “S-she wouldn't cheat on me...she wouldn't plus she lost our sons…” “well, I don’t care what you gutter rats do, considering the nonsense you pull I am not surprised your kids go missing.” the arbite said flaty.

Beleth frowned “gutter rats? Don’t you live in the lower hive also?” The arbite raised her eyebrow “I don’t live here. I work here this station is merely a branch a small base where we can go out and fight those who break the emperor’s law. Our main base The Precinct-fortress is located in the upper hive.” “I see, but don’t you think insulting a man who has found out his wife is possibly cheating on him and along with losing his sons is a bit much?” The arbite leveled her gaze at him he could not even speak, the news has crushed him. Hearing Beleth saying it out loud hurt even more. “I don’t care, we will deal with the kidnappings in time now your business is done move out of the way.” Leonard wiped his eyes slightly “it’s alright Beleth...It’s alright…” he was about to turn away until he heard a slam on the desk, he stared at Beleth who now holds a dark grin. “I see, we will be going but I just wanted to say...sometimes things you consider trivial means a lot to certain people. Stepping on that could unleash a tide of darkness you won’t expect…” The arbite rose from her chair “leave in the next five minutes before I have the arbites in this station shoot you.” she said firmly.

Beleth shrugged “let’s go Leonard let’s leave the arbites to their “work”.” Leonard merely nodded he did not have the strength to argue with the arbite or risk getting shot. Once they were outside he rummaged his hair “I don’t want to go home.” he said out loud. Going home will only make it hurt more. He then felt a hand on his shoulder he looked up to Beleth who is now smiling “you can stay at the help centre, have a warm meal, wine I know it’s not much. But until you feel better you can stay there.” Leonard shook his head “why are you so kind?” “Well, I feel if someone is happy the galaxy does not exactly seem dark anymore. Hence why I offer this kindness. I know what’s it like to lose family trust me.” Leonard recalled his parents “I see...thank you for the kindness.” Beleth moved his hand away from his shoulder as they walked back to the help centre.

I wonder what's the deal with the kidnappings? Bwhahahaha *cough* mwhahahahahaha....

Chapter 41
Leonard sat at the desk in the room given to him by Beleth, it was rather small but despite the size he could not help but admit it was better than his flat. The bed was soft, the food was great, far better than the meals served during the meetings. Even at this moment he was sipping a glass of wine that relaxed his nerves he stared at the bottle on his desk wondering who brewed such a drink. As he drank he could still feel the pain of losing his family the emotion is still there but the wine is smothering it slightly. He wants to drift in the taste so the heartache would go away but it was always there, a small spec in his mind and heart tells him he should be out searching for them. “What else can I do?” he said out loud.

He reported the issue, all he had to do now is wait. He drained the rest of his glass. His cheeks flushed slightly as the liquid moved through his body. Leonard got up and stretched “perhaps there is something I can help out with?” at this point he did not care for work, he has no reason to go. As he approached the door he heard a soft knock, he went to the table to grab his wooden mask, before he came here Beleth explained while living here he has to wear the wooden mask but is free not to wear it when he is by himself.

Once the mask was on his face he made his way to open the door and unlocked it he opened it slightly, despite the fact the person before him wearing a mask he recognized the brown robe. Leonard coughed slightly “B-Tenebris what is it?” “may I come in?” He nodded and opened his door, Beleth walked in. “Is something wrong?” said Leonard as he closed the door. “I wish to talk to you about something important.” Leonard flicked the lock on his door “what do you want to talk about?” Beleth faced him and removed his mask to his surprise “I think it’s time we should be more..public.” “Public? Isn’t that the case now? “Yes we are in a manner of speaking but largely I have been selecting people who would not be exactly against our organisation. Do you recall the female Abitrator at the station? Imagine if she knew what we were doing? She would shoot everyone who attends our gatherings or lock them in prison.” the information caused Leonard to shake his head “why would she do that? People are just airing legitimate grievances! We are not doing anything wrong!” Beleth smiled at him, “Leonard if you remove your mask please.” the request caused him to mumble slightly, it’s just the two of them in his room so he agreed to his request. “Very well…” he slowly removed his mask and held it in his hands, Beleth held his smile. “The reason we wear masks is to protect you than your secrets. Consider this I told you that my parents were killed for trying to spread the information about the tainted water? They also took my eye. Now you learned so many things, what will they do to you?” Leonard clenched his mask “then they are corrupt…” “No they are not.” Beleth said firmly “they are following the law of the god-emperor. As the Abitrator said the kidnappings is also “mi-”” he shouted “it’s not minor!” the smothered emotion burst forth instead of depression he felt anger. “It’s not minor Beleth! My sons have been taken! My wife….my wife….left me for another man...” he tried not sob “I know the grief is consuming you Leonard. The Abitrators don’t care about your happiness or your feelings, what I am trying to say is more people should know about this but they won’t listen if we say out loud. Why do you think they are ignoring the movement bringing awareness to the kidnappings? Why do you think the priests don’t talk of the issue surrounding the induction program? The common man has been taught to ignore problems for the sake... of order. It does not matter who’s happiness is crushed or torn apart if the status quo can be maintained.” he listened carefully to what Beleth is telling him he can see that, Magister is locked into a corner unable to move, the kidnappings are being ignored according to Luctus.

Now while having this conversation he slowly started to accept a grim possibility “my sons are truly gone aren’t they?” Beleth stroked his chin “not exactly…” “what do you mean not exactly?” Said Leonard. “Well, this leads into making our organisation more public, what I plan to do is solve the kidnapping case.” Leonard’s eyes went wide “w-what? How? If that’s the case why did we go to the station?” “To prove a point to you Leonard. What did you think when walking into that station? Do you feel that the Arbites will work towards finding your children?” Leonard looked down to his mask “I held a hope that something would happen, but thinking on it again. I wonder if you weren’t there I would have never seen the report….I would have filled out a report and she would stuff it into her folder and forget about it… after that I guess I would wander aimlessly in my depression and most likely join the movement.” Beleth walked over and grasped his shoulder “now when I say that I will find the truth to these kidnappings do you believe me?” he looked up to the young man, staring at his face a part of him wondered his age. How he acted and conducted himself, he has not known him for long, yet Leonard feels he could trust him. “I do believe you.”

The young man tapped his shoulder “good, now get some rest make sure you eat. I have a few...friends who are bounty hunters in the underhive. It will take a few da-” “I can help you, Pl-” Beleth smiled “I appreciate it, but you can help me by spreading the word that we are looking into the kidnappings, make sure you drink and eat. Remain hearty and have faith in people who actually care for your plight.” he then stepped back and placed on his mask. “Now Leonard I have a lot of work to do. Trust me I will solve this issue.” Beleth then walked past him and left his room. Once he was alone he walked to the door and flicked the lock. He stared at his mask just for a brief second he saw a flash of a paled face beauty smiling at him he shook his head. “What was that?” his heart twisted slightly he panted he was suddenly out of breath. He walked over to the table and poured himself a glass of wine he drank it quickly the sensation slowly vanishing, he was no longer out of breath he felt better, he wiped his lips “right, spread the word.” he placed his mask on and left his room and got to work.

He sat and went over the reports on their latest earnings, the other gangs, along with other important customers come to him for merchandise. He looked around his personal hall, male and female members of his gang the dark sworn, are grinning ear to ear at the payouts. His partner cushioned up to him in the sofa “so are you going to get us something nice Laurence?” He held her tightly “of course I am! People are none the wiser to our business the arbites don't seem to care either!” he snickered “Now, Velvet have the new ones been processed yet?” “aye the boys and gals had already processed the new batch that arrived.” he smiled hearing that. “So another payout should be soon, are you making sure they are labeled as well?” Velete nodded “yup, name and age, everything has been noted down.” He relaxed in the large sofa “things are good….” “are they?” he looked down to Velvet who is now snuggling up to him “did you say something?” she looked up to him in confusion “no, I didn’t why?” he thought on the voice again, Velvet is to his right, the voice somewhat came from the left.

He turned his head slightly and what greeted him is a man standing over the sofa looking directly at him, the mask was golden, bearing one eye, the mouth of the mask was shaped into a somewhat open snake maw and the rune on the forehead caused bile to line his throat as he stared at it. The voice he heard before came from the intruder “are things better? Tell me about your business.” Laurence’s blood ran cold, in a normal situation he would tell his fellows to gun the idiot down but his eyes were locked to the single eye socket of the golden mask. Gazing at it being this close to this strange intruder told him if he makes a false move he would be killed. The aroma that he now smelled caused his heart to beat rapidly, telling him to hold his gaze to this figure.

The intruder looked around the room “it looks like your gang is holding a similar reaction to you. This will make things easy.” Laurence then heard screaming from his hall doors, sweat dripped down his brow “w-who are you?” The golden masked figure looked down at him “you don’t need to know who I am. Know that it’s unfortunate that you cannot join in the bounty of flesh and carnage at this moment. Say a prayer to the true god for what you are about to miss for your fellows they will know true joy…” around his frame the black cloak began moving frantically he then heard a scream next to him. He felt Velvet moving frantically next to him screaming that she can’t see, shouting in anguish that it hurts. He finally turned his head to Velet to see two strange black spears that shared the colouration of the intruders cloak is now speared through Velvets Head right through the eye sockets. Such an injury would kill a normal person but she was still alive screaming in agony. He released his grip and edged away from her terrified with what was happening. He finally faced the hall and screams erupted around him, black tendrils shaped like a pointed spear was moving throughout the room searching his fellows like a serpent and began spearing through mouths, bodies, eyes until everyone in the room was either gurgling or pain or screaming in anguish.

He gulped and looked up to the masked intruder who was chuckling with glee “I was so bored...perhaps I should take my time?” Laurence's lips trembled with fear “p-please don’t kill me.” the intruder shook his head “you won’t die yet… relax and watch…see what you are missing...” for some reason he looked forward, he stared at the black tendrils doing their work even with this happening around him he felt if he moved through the sofa he will die. He will suffer agonizing torment that will be a shadow of what his gang is being put through.

Carita sliced open a throat, warm blood splashing on her warmask and armour, the heat of combat resonated within her breast, the screams of the dying, the cutting of flesh. She was in the moment of rapture as she sliced off the arm of another, but there is an interruption she heard scowling, she looked around the corridor as prelates of her sect did their work upon the dark sworn. It was not them that was interrupting the blessed depravity it was someone else. A few paces down the large hallway was Defillia scowling in annoyance as her spear twirled severing gang members limbs, they did not even get the chance to draw weapons. “Why do you disrupt us?” she slithered forward, Difillia speared a gang member through the neck “we have a task to finish. We should kill them quickly and move on.” “You don’t enjoy killing them? You don’t take your time?” Carita said flatly. The spear was quickly removed from the throat of the dead gang member “I am not a part of your cult, I kill them quickly for they are not worth my time. I was made perfect and strong by Lord Adelram. I won’t waste that strength on people like this.” Difillia gestured her spear to the dead that lined the hallway. “I know that useless man is wasting time in the main hall. He could of easily taken everyone out with his witchcraft. He even used it to walk through the base undetected yet he uses the cult forces in this pointless engagement!” Carita hissed at the foolish young woman “it’s not pointless! This is worship! Thi-” the misguided woman pointed her spear towards her “you are gratifying your urges, nothing more, nothing less. Plus doing it on common criminals…” Carita narrowed her eyes “it’s still worship, in our joy of excess it’s how we sing praises to the dark prince.”

Difillia lowered her spear she chuckled “I wonder if Asriel is a fanatic like you? I doubt it…” she knew what the high prelate is capable of. She has seen what he could do. “It does not matter if he is fanatical or not, his actions speak louder for the dark prince. In your pride thinking you are the perfect creation you also sing praises to her.” “I am nothing like you!” she spat. “While he floundered away doing his “experiment” for months...creating you! I stood by his side! I am his perfect servant! It’s why he sent me to watch you! All of you would get distracted in your hedonism forgetting our lord’s orders!” Difillia’s outburst caused Carita to smile behind her mask. She is like them, her excess is merely different she began slithering past the misguided woman. “It does not matter what you say, in a manner of speaking you are a “zealot” like the rest of us. Now let us go find the high prelate…” and she moved onwards, Difillia tutted in annoyance “what of the rest of them? your “prelates?”” She turned her back slightly to the prelate’s of her sect they were dragging away corpses into the darkness. “It does not concern you. As I said let us focus on the task…” at her word Difillia shrugged and moved down the hall with her.

Eventually they reached the doors to the grand hall “let me go in first…” said Carita. In turn Difillia raised her eyebrow “may I ask why?” “the high prelate might be in a state where he might kill you.” mentioning that the high prelate might kill her caused Difillia to laugh “he can’t ki-” “he can!” Carita shouted “He can and will! From what I have seen and what he has told me Lord Adelram will forgive him! He might just kill you so he will get punished...do as I say…” Difillia did not protest further she shrugged “fine make it quick.” Carita nodded and opened the door slightly she slithered in and closed the door behind her.

The carnage in the hall caused a tear to fall down her eye, black tendrils holding pieces of bodies, now pale forms strewn across the hall and in the middle sitting down was the high prelate panting his cloak wrapped around his shoulders as it encompassed the hall. She slithered towards him “high prelate the base is largely cleared…” her words caused him to rise from the floor and she saw he was not wearing any clothes nor his warmask he frowned “Carita I lost my things. Can you help me find it?” she bowed slightly “yes, if I may I ask where is the leader?” he then pointed “on the sofa I made sure he can’t move. Once I got started he wanted to run away.” she bought her eyes the sofa near the back of the hall she saw the leader crying a stream of tears as the high prelate’s cloak was wrapped around the gang leader holding him in place. “Now Carita, my things should be among the dead bodies help me start looking.” he turned his back and began walking to a pile of bodies.

She stared at him for some reason, her mind started to race, he has no weapon, no combat gear and his guard is down. Carita wondered why she is thinking this now, she knows what he is capable of but watching him her mouth began to salivate. She wondered what his heart tasted like, the beating muscle full of vigour from devouring the great serpent’s essence. Her lips trembled, she found herself slowly slithering towards the high prelate, she raised her blade.

Her hand’s trembled she wanted to devour his heart as the blade slowly began to move downwards, the high prelate no Asriel, since she will be the high prelate, Asriel has not noticed her attack. As the blade moved Asriel turned his void like eye upon her. Cartia felt her heart constrict as the Asriel’s hand speared from the cloak and snapped around her neck gripping it tightly . She found it hard to breathe, her weapon dropped from her hands as the high prelate pulled her downwards towards his face. “What are you doing?” he asked flatly his face now cold and neutral. Carita gasped “I-I am sorry...I could not help it…” he removed her warmask and threw it to the ground. Carita placed her hands on the high prelate’s arm trying to remove it but the strength was too much, black veins pulsed on his dark skin. He bought his other hand to her lips, his nails slowly changed to talons he pressed her lips together slightly drawing a small amount of blood. “You want my heart? You want my blood?” the high prelate released his talons slightly allowing her to speak. She wondered whether she should be truthful or not. “I-I...wanted it…” as she spoke the high prelate turned jovial “I see.” he opened his mouth slightly displaying his fangs and tongue and bit down hard. Blood began streaming down his mouth with his immense strength he bought her forward and lightly kissed her on the lips. He leaned back “perhaps it was time you cleaned your blade? Do you feel better now?” Carita could taste the blood it burned as it moved down her throat the sensation was far greater than before when she tasted his blood before.

The high prelate released his grip she coughed slightly “I am...sorry…” he sighed “enough of that help me find my things.” he wiped his mouth clearing away the blood, She then picked up her war-mask and weapon and hooked them to her belt “Yes, I will help you look.” she went to work with the high prelate searching for his gear amongst the dead, with some time all the pieces were found and in a few minutes he was fully geared. The cloak began drawing back until only one tendril remained that held the leader, they approached the sofa “now to acquire the information. Tell me where are you holding the kidnapped children?” said Asriel. Carita watched the gang member blink in confusion “w-what?” she hissed at the fool “the high prelate asked you a question!” the gang leader stammered “t-they are on the basement level! The room at the end of the hallway!” she watched the high prelate smile “thank you” he said. With a swift motion with his talons he sliced open the gang leader’s throat letting the blood pour down his clothes.

As the gang leader slowly she frowned “we are going to be bored again aren’t we?” “Indeed we are, but we have our information let’s get going.” Carita bowed slightly “yes high prelate.”

Asriel gathered their small host and took off to the basement, Carita’s stunt before annoyed him slightly, he thought about tearing her apart but decided against it. It was a mistake, the heat of combat was high. But there is one person ruining the mood she held a large frown no matter what he did. “If you keep frowning like that your face will stay that way.” “Shut up Asriel.” Difilia said firmly “let’s just find those kids and leave.” for some reason it’s amusing watching her being upset he guessed that she shared words with Carita. As they took the steps downwards, he could tell that the temperature is decreasing rapidly.

As they reached the basement level they were in a corridor that lead to a large door, the closer they got to it the colder it got. Once in front of the door Asriel folded his arms “how interesting…” on inspection the door was a sliding one, he grasped the large handle and pulled slowly opening the door. What greeted him was an extremely large freezer and containers were stacked to the brim on shelves and on the floor. Just scanning this freezer he could tell there were hundreds upon hundreds of boxes Carita looked around “what is this…?” in silence Asriel walked to a box and knelt. He read the sticker on it carefully once done he was done he began laughing hard to everyone’s confusion.

I wonder if this chapter is a tad dark? Anyway things are starting to kick off!

Chapter 42
The meeting hall was clustered with people, far more than usual when he spread the word that Beleth was investigating the kidnappings many pressed him for further information but he told them what he could. All he could say is that he would look into it, but now after just a few days Beleth has announced that the case has been solved and that their children are being returned to them today. Many have introduce friends and family members to Auxilium, murmurings of excitement could be heard in the room, people are sobbing behind their wooden masks in relief. He could not help but feel the same, the pain has began shifting to hope and possibly the chance of seeing his boys again filled him with great happiness. Since staying here he found he think’s less on his wife, he just wants his sons back.

Leonard stood in the middle of the bustling crowd, Luctus also stood by his side, to him she looked agitated shaking her head she said “he could not have solved it in a few days...it’s…” “not possible?” she looked up to him “yes, it’s clear enough to me that the Arbites were ignoring the case. What….annoys me is the fact it’s been solved in a few days what reason do they have to ignore our plight? If one man with his contacts in the underhive can get our children back? What...what use are the Arbites? To me the more we talk, the more I learn it seems they treat us like a “herd” that needs to be controlled.” As Luctus gave her thoughts he could not help but agree. As he spread the word he kept thinking back to the conversation he had with Beleth, the reaction of the Abitrator, putting that all together there is only one simple conclusion. “You are correct Luctus, they don’t care that’s it. Do remember they consider us “gutter rats?” they wish us to slave away until our deaths it’s getting to the point that to me it looks like they wish us to stop bothering them so they can complete far more “important” work.” “I agree, Custos do remember the water you bought up before? I told my associates in the movement, they were horrified many were even small time doctors and had the water tested. There are actually several agents in there that are harmful to humans.” Leonard sighed heavily “what in name of the god-emperor are those above thinking? What would the god-emperor think of those above being so...so...corrupted?” “he would be disappointed.” Magister pushed through the crowd towards them. “Many of the priests in the lower hive are coming around to my way of thinking. Some are readily joining the organisation, the news of the water and word of the kidnapping case being solved.” “that’s great news!” exclaimed Leonard “so wh-” before he could saying anything the side room door opened.

Silence consumed the hall as several people pushing carts came out of the door, the carts were filled to the brim with sealed boxes bearing labels.”what is this?” said Leonard “I don’t know, but I don’t like it.” Luctus said quietly. Eventually Beleth walked out and stood before them he sighed “all of you are gathered due to the announcement. I have come to return your children, that is what you have heard. That is what you know, this organisation was created to help people, to help them with their problems and perhaps bring some measure of happiness to their lives.” Beleth bought his eyes to him, Leonard tensed himself while folding his arms “In almost every meeting there was one constant, the kidnapping issue, I clearly saw the callousness of the Arbitrator’s in dealing with this issue so I have decided to take it upon myself and this organisation to bring closure to this issue. I had contacts in the underhive, bounty hunters, ex gang members and the downtrodden. The kidnappings were linked to a gang called the dark sworn.” at the mention of the gang’s name who took their children Leonard could notice there were murmurings, one called out. “So you know who did it? You said you would get our children back! Where are they!?” as the person in the crowd shouted everyone began agreeing with him. Mumurings turned to people shouting at Beleth, he gestured to quieten everyone down. “Which I have now will you place your eyes on the carts.” Leonard with the rest of the people gathered placed their eyes on the carts.

He scratched his head and raised his hand “Tenebris what are we supposed to see?” “What you are supposed to see?” Beleth shook his head “what you searched and cried for is right in front of you. Those boxes contain your children, in other words their organs.” The news caused Leonard’s heart to drop, he felt sick, his belly felt empty. He wanted to scream or shout, but in silence tears began streaming down his eyes. One person shouted bringing him out of his stupor “he is lying! He s-” “I said I have returned your children. The gang has been dealt with by the bounty hunters, my people made great pains to do this why would I lie?” the crowd was not dissuaded they began hurling insults, shouting at the top of their voices. Magister shook his head “t-this can’t be true..” Leonard clenched his chest and looked down, all the pain came back in great waves “it can’t be true…” he whispered.

He then heard someone walking forward he looked up to see Luctus approaching Beleth, she stood before him. “Is there someone named Alivia Carson? Fourteen years old?” Beleth nodded to one of the people looking after the cartd they searched through the boxes until eventually hefting one up and bringing it over. Luctus looked down to it “she has come back to her mother...after her father left she is all I had…” she turned to the crowd “he is not lying. Why are we hurling insults and accusations at the person who wishes to help us? If you don’t believe him I will help you verify them. I know people, who we should be angry at is the Abitrators! Those who ignored our plight for so long! If they took it seriously some of our children might of still been alive! If they ended them when they had the chance? They would have not been able to take our young with impunity! They are to blame! They deserve our hatred and accusations!” she turned to Beleth “tell me did they suffer?” Leonard watched the young man incline his head “according to the bounty hunters I hired they were...quite messy with them.” “Good.” Luctus said firmly “I wish I was there myself t-to…” Beleth placed his hand on her shoulder “now we have to spread awareness, there are many who don’t have a voice but don’t have the strength or will to join us.” “Yes don’t worry I will get the word out.” Watching them talk Leonard wondered how she had so much strength he gulped and walked forward. “Tenebris, tell me is there any boxes baring the names Adrian and Jonathan? Adrian is sixteen, while Jonathan is fourteen.” Beleth gestured and two men bought over two boxes and placed it before him. Looking at them, they reached about his knees. He looked at them in silence he fell on top of them and wept, the pain was too much “I just wanted what was best for them!? Why me…!? Why!?” Beleth then knelt “if the Arbites and those above cared for the actual wellbeing of people then this would have never happened. We need to let the people know.” Leonard slowly nodded “we do..we have to…” Leonard rose “can I be alone with them?” Beleth rose as well “yes” he turned to two of his fellows “help him take the boxes to his room.” both men nodded and hefted the boxes, Leonard followed them to the side door.

Entering the hall they walked in silence, one of the men carrying the boxes sighed “Tenebris thought it would be a good idea to place a beverage in everyone’s rooms. Help yourself.” “I don’t feel like eating or drinking.” said Leonard. The man did not say anything further, walking onwards they passed a set of stairs leading downwards he stopped and looked down the steps as he stared into the darkness he thought he could hear a song. He was not sure whether it’s male or female but he was entranced. The pain of the news of his children’s state vanished just for a moment, he felt joy, endless delight. “Is something wrong?” Leonard jolted to attention breaking the song one of the men faced him, despite wearing a mask he had the feeling that he was worried. “It’s nothing, by the way I have passed these steps several times where does it lead?” both men looked at each other. The one that talked of the beverages spoke out “you may go down there in time but for now let’s go to your room.” “very well.” as the conversation ended the pain came back far worse than before, he clutched his heart. He steadily walked on towards his room upstairs.

Once standing in front of his door he unlocked the door and let the two people helping him walk in they placed the boxes on the ground and walked away, one of them even tapped him on the shoulder before leaving. In silence, Leonard stared into his room the boxes sitting in the middle of his room. He did not want to acknowledge their presence, some part of his heart is telling him it’s not real. He slowly walked into his room and closed his door behind him. He sighed heavily and locked the door.

He turned and faced the boxes, his sons, the organs of his sons. He found himself crying again “it’s not fair…” it’s wrong for a parent to outlive their children that’s what he told himself. He wished it was him instead them he won’t see them again, they will never read to him again. He will never hear their voices again, he began thinking on how did it happen why did it happen and there are two constants. “The arbites have more important things to do and my wife...she...ignored my wishes. I told her….I told her!” Leonard shouted, panting he looked up and on his desk is a fresh wine bottle, it looks different compared to the one he normally drinks and it looks far more expensive.

He stared at it for a moment more and then looked at the boxes his heart constricted into a knot and at the back of his mind he heard the song again. The pain of loss pricked at his body like sharp knives, but the song the words told him to drown his sorrow. The pain would be smothered, that he wants to give him the happiness he deserves, she wants to fill his mind with joy. He took off his mask and dropped it to the ground he slowly staggered over to the wine bottle “I don’t want to feel like this anymore…” you don’t want to think “I don’t want to think…” you wish to act to against them “I-I wish to act...I want them to suffer..” the Arbitrators, his wife and the man she is with they are the cause. “I-I….want…” you should only want... he stood before the bottle. He saw the glass but ignored it, he unscrewed the top and stared at the boxes that contain his boys. He did not want to feel like this, he wanted it to end. He placed the bottle to his lips and drank deeply.

He kept drinking letting the burning liquid run down his body, the liquid entering his stomach right away he felt it. The pain ebbing away, a purple haze consumed his mind, his unnecessary thoughts started to flutter away. He gagged slightly bringing the bottle away from his lips he stared at the boxes again the wine dripping down slightly at the edge of his mouth. The pain was still there, his failure as a father to stop his wife, he wanted it gone. He drank again trying to drain the contents of the bottle.

Then he felt it, the pain finally dying, he felt dizzy but he needed more, he kept drinking. Letting the taste fill his mouth eventually the bottle was finished he gagged again and dropped the bottle it rolled towards the boxes. The dizziness got worse, the haze was engulfing him completely but he still could feel it just slightly. His eyes felt heavy, he hicced once before collapsing to the ground.

While on the floor his body felt heavy, but somewhat relaxed he smiled slightly but his eyes went to the boxes and the pain began slowly creeping back. Leonard began panicking it wasn’t enough, he needed more. Always, more seek more without thought, he needed it. Whatever that drink did he needed more it his eyes fluttered slightly before darkness consumed his vision.

He dreamed of the time he met his wife, at a bar, they got on well and they began dating. Ironically she was the one who wanted to get married to his shock. He was then in front of the grand cathedral it was just them he watched her smiling, their lives full of happiness. Then he saw them, his kids appearing with Laura, their smiles together warmed his heart but their image began burning away into darkness. “Please! No! Give them back!” at his words the image slowly came back he smiled he could see them again when things were perfect, he found himself walking over to them but before he could reach them a black shadow began towering over them.

He stopped and looked up the shadow slowly formed into a black snake with a shining pink eye it’s maw opened wide and in one bite devoured his family. No thinking, no deliberation, just joy, want, degradation and entropy… he heard at the back of his mind. The snake then coughed out a small spec of meat before him. It then slithered away dissipating into nothing.

He stared at the meat before him, his heart hurt, it was painful “make it stop…” he said out loud “please make it stop…” he dropped to his knees “I want it to go away.” you know what to do he buried his face into his hands even when not looking at the meat it still hurt. He shook his head and cried out.

As he cried out to the skies suddenly he could not breathe he grasped his neck “I...can’t...I…” he fell to the ground it felt like all the air was being drawn from his lungs he could feel his eyes rolling back. Again darkness consumed him.

He blinked rapidly, the floor was cold, his vision was a blur his body felt so weak he got to his knees. He looked around and he saw large snakes moving in the darkness. In his blurred vision he saw braizers burning with a pink flame surrounding him. He then looked forward out of the darkness he saw a figure with a golden face wearing a dark cloak he walked over and knelt before him. “Does it still hurt?” the voice was familiar he knows it’s a young man, but the voice was slightly muffled. The question entered his mind, right away he felt it the pain in his chest. He clutched his shirt “it still hurts” he said quietly.

The young man nodded “it would have never hurt in the first place if the imperium did not beat you down. Not caring for your happiness or wants.” “w-what do you mean it’s the imperium’s fault I feel this way?” “What I mean is the Abitrator’s serve and enforce the law of the imperium. They deemed your want to find your children to not be “important”. The priests above will also support them. They actively seek to destroy your happiness and joy to control you.” as the golden faced figure spoke he could not help but listen and nod. “If they did something. They….would not be dead.” “You speak correctly if you were free to do what you want everyone could of poured on top of the gang without impunity. We could of had the strength needed to do it and you would of enjoyed tearing apart those that killed your children.” Leonard blinked in surprise “I would of enjoyed tearing them apart?”

“Yes…” the golden faced figure intoned “now the people responsible are still alive, don’t think, don’t deliberate follow your instinct. What do you want?” Leonard tried not to think, but the pain was still there in his chest, it’s always there he did not want to even focus on it but it was like his mouth was moving by itself. “I...want to end them…” he said flatly.

His vision started to clear slightly, the person before him did not have a golden face but it was a mask he could tell that much. He repeated as his vision slowly started to clear “I want to end them…” “good…” said the masked figure. He then grabbed his head and bought it to his forehead the as it touched his skin there was a strange heat he almost wanted to get lose in it as the masked figure spoke. “There is a being that can help you do that. One true god that can help you get what you want. All he cares for is your joy, all she wants is for you to be happy.” “Who?” Leonard asked quietly.

The young man chuckled “slaanesh…” as he heard the name the pain in his heart vanished slightly, it was replaced with a sense of euphoria. He needed that, he wanted to know of that being. “Who are they?” “If you wish to know you must strip away the current you, the old you that accepts the god-emperor. The you that is merely a cog in a cold machine.” Leonard suddenly began thinking of the god-emperor just saying the name in his head caused the pain he felt before to consume him. He panted “don’t think about it…..only instinct I... accept your offer.” at his word the figure spoke again “so shall it be done, tell me what is your name?” the the mask pressed harder on his forehead he felt words forming in his mind, the letter’s looked garbled but slowly began forming into a name. “Vincent, my name is Vincent.” at the mention of his name the young leaned back.

His hand went into his cloak and pulled out a small vial he removed the top and handed it to him. “Drink it and accept your new life and name Vincent!” He looked at the vial even in his blurred vision he could see it held a swarm of different colours without hesitation he drank it. Whatever it was caused a burning sensation to be felt throughout his nerves, the pain in his heart was instantly burned away in seconds. His vision was clearing, the man before him rose and stood before him.

He blinked several times his vision cleared and he could fully see the person before him, the golden mask with one eye, the serpentine maw. He slowly got to his feet, the darkness around him cleared revealing men and women that bore bodies were their lower half is that of a serpent. It was clear they are mutants, but for some reason he did not care he felt relaxed energized. He stood before the masked figure who spoke again “welcome brother to your new life.” he went into his robe again and pulled out a bronze mask that bore a serpent’s mouth similar to the wooden mask food can easily fit through it.

He grasped the mask and placed it onto his face, despite what he was feeling now he had a nagging feeling, a strange need. “I wish to see my wife.” the masked figure tilted his head “in time you will but for now relax.” Other bronzed masked people came forward they held pantry dishes of food and wine, without thinking he attacked it. The food and wine tasted wonderful but the nagging feeling was still there. He dismissed for now he had to focus what was in front of him. “Vincent.” he looked up to the masked figure “yes?” “Do you know who I am?” said the masked figure.

He thought about it for a fraction of a second but at this current moment he couldn't care less he kept eating. “Good answer” said the young man Vincent kept eating he never felt like this before, he did not want it to end. He drowned himself utterly into the sensation that consumed him while he ate.

Virgil Gardil sat in his office within the Pericent-Fortress or in other words the courthouse, monitoring the thousands of crimes of Vestos, charging Abitrators to track these crimes and to execute the guilty with impunity but there is one report. One that is holding his attention he stared at his cogitator screen reading over the report again. During the past few days there have been protests dealing with a minor kidnapping case but what concerned him truly is that they are also protesting on the water lowering the public’s lifespan. He wondered how they found out that detail in the end it doesn't matter, his own Arbitrator's have been sending requests to execute the protestors. In any normal circumstance he would sent the order without even a thought but the issue is how they found out about the water.

When planetary governor Uriel Dathmos introduced the idea those of the spires were all for it in his eyes it was a way to combat overpopulation and ensure the elderly don’t squat in houses. Only those on the cusp near the top of the lower hive and above drink normal water. He understood the need but was against it due to the possible implications if it was found out. The result of that information is detailed in the report.

“The lower dregs don’t understand what we do to keep them safe...to keep the emperor's demesne safe. The pains we have to go through to deliver justice…” he creased his brow. His finger hovered over the button to send the order to execute the protestors. The one in charge of the area Shevila Valtia is zealous in her pursuit of the law and knows no mercy. It’s why he put her in charge of that station.

He weighed the decision in his mind, the protesters are breaking the law, they are also spouting to high heavens about something that he knew would cause problems in the future. Without hesitation instead of an execution order he sent an order for execution and eradication of the movement. Virgil leaned back in his seat “the emperor’s justice is swift and unforgiving…” he then leaned forward and moved to the next report displayed on his cogitator.

Shevila traced her finger across her face, she could not feel the scars due to her combat gloves but it’s become routine for her to trace her finger over them. It’s a reminder that showing even an inch of mercy can cost you. When people break the law they should be dealt with, the past few weeks she was stuck in office. She constantly sent reports on the kidnapping movement for the Judge to approve her execution request.

Now they are finally protesting, her fellow Arbites made a screens with riot shields and shock prods. Through the shield wall she watched them shouting and raving waving signs at the ineptitude of the Arbites, many even held strange boxes up shouting at them they failed them. There are even signs that the government is killing them while their signs bare crude drawings of water. “Damn gutter rats have no idea what we do to ensure their safety, the execution of insurgents, heretics and traitors…” what was even worse is that they all wore wooden masks. To hide one’s face means they are hiding something, to hide something shows you are guilty of a crime.

She unclipped her helmet from her belt and placed it on her head, she readied her auto-gun that was slinged on her shoulder. As she held her auto-gun she went over the confirmation, it was not a simple execution order, but also eradication. She now has the power to destroy the kidnapping movement with impunity. She bellowed to her fellow Arbitrator's “ready weapons! Execute them in the name of the god-emperor!” at once they began marching forward, shock prods were deactivated and attached to belts the Abitrator’s pulled out auto-pistols and began firing upon the crowd. As the first people began to fall they began falling back like the cowards they are. “Keep firing!” she shouted again.

Bullet fire trailed down the street, the screams erupted in her ears, the curses but one curse her ears picked up upon. She could hear screams cursing the god-emperor and that verified it “they curse the god-emperor! Gun them down!” she walked with them she aimed through the gaps of the shield line and began firing it just took a minute or maybe more to whittle down the crowd to nothing. Leaving the street full of corpses “hold fire!” she bellowed.

Her fellow Arbitrator's stopped and reloaded weapons, instead of screams and curses to the emperor there was only silence. She ordered to walk forward she wanted to investigate the boxes they were holding. She peered through her scope the broken box had blood pouring out and red meat was strewn across the road. “Hold!” the arbitrator's did as they were bade. She slinged her gun over her shoulder “I want a curfew to be enforced, we will also arrest and execute all known members of the movement.” the Arbitrator's turned around and saluted all of them walked off to enforce her orders. She looked at the the dead bodies staring at them all she could feel is contempt. Not an ounce of pity.

Asriel sat in the meeting hall, they no longer wear masks since the announcement that he found their children all of who attended that day decided to stay at the centre. Those who drank from the bottle were inducted and slowly introduced to the cult, the deception did not bother them either when he revealed his actual name. Luctus whose actual name used to be Natisha paced in annoyance, since he “found” their children and now with the massacre she plunges head first into the cult teachings and readily embraced her new name Alma. She now stays in the centre due to those involved in the movement are being hunted down and executed. “How dare they…” she hissed “they prove us right with their actions….they should suffer...” Magister whose name is now Kadir grumbled “Indeed, my priests are taking in those they can it seems that the Abitrator’s are not going anywhere near the churches.” He watched them deliberate, Asriel could see they are thinking too hard. He looked over to Vincent who is quiet his eyes looked absent “what do you think?” asked Asriel.

He looked up, just going by his face it’s clear that he is getting younger, just a few days ago he looked close to his forties when he drank a pure draught of Fulgrim’s blood now he looks like he is about thirty years old. “What use is thinking Asriel? We wait they will do our work for us.” Alma stopped “we can’t do nothing w-” “Vincent is correct Alma, in killing those people and the curfew they proved us right. The god-emperor does not care for the people’s plight and their enforcers are killing innocent people with impunity. In turn we will recruit and bring people to the truth and joy of the galaxy. They will encourage the true god to spread while we slowly take control. Right now our associates are working on the underhive, so for now relax and enjoy the bounties at the centre.” as head she no longer protested she merely bowed and sat back down. Asriel looked over to Kadir who seems to be on edge “do you enjoy the night of darkness too much?” The priest looked over to him, Asriel could see he is gaining weight as well “your recommendation to use the churches as another recruiting ground has borne fruit. In turn the suggestion to do nights of darkness has helped in feeding the…urges.” as Kadir mentioned the night of darkness he smiled, many of the boxes that recovered belonged to people that did not belong to the Auxilium organisation. So he had the boxes delivered back to their parents, in their depression and sadness they attend church that is where Kadir’s priests like a serpent whisper things to aid them in forgetting their depression.

Steadily they are recruited and commit to a night of darkness beneath the churches and in turn fall deeper in the grasp of the dark prince. That has a knock on effect, those who also suffer from depression are bought in by those who taste the fruits of excess. Also the curious are drawn in. All of them fall head first into the grasp of the serpent and then they soon learn of the true god who actually seeks to make them happy. But Asriel could see many of the new members are starting to feel like a caged animal wanting to be let loose, the nights of darkness help to alleviate that but it can’t last forever. Once the time comes to deal with the Arbites and they are eradicated as presence in the lower hive that is when his lord will come. He will come to drown this world further into depravity and excess. He relaxed in his seat “you have done well Kadir, Alma I want you to do something.” Alma looked up “what is it?” “I want you to send word to the close family members of those killed in the streets have them lured to the churches. But don’t risk yourself unecessarly.” Alma inclined her head “it will be done.” “Now Kadir, I want you to aid her, shield her if something happens the Arbites are none the wiser to the true beliefs of the priesthood in the lower hive.” Kadir gave a grin “I will do what I can.”

Finally he placed his eyes on Vincent “Vincent.” he looked up “yes?” “I want you to help me on a project.” he blinked in confusion “very well.” His agreement caused him to smile, Asriel needs him to help develop the present for his lord when he arrives. At least his work in the factories will be useful for something. In the end all they can do is wait and recruit until they reach the critical mass and then the cult can be freed from their confines to commit to any action that spawns within their minds.