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Justus.....is cool. You shall see why he is called immortal and "dateless"

From whenst has thine character cometh? Lol

lliu wrote:
From whenst has thine character cometh? Lol

It's great that you are getting into it! You see Tetricus is gathering a group of "exiles" together, I thought all of them would be quirky in their own way. When it came to Justus I thought it would be cool/amusing to have a character who speaks in old english/shakespearean.

Cassius is an amazing bladesmen but he is a glutton, Erastus is pretty much a mad scientist that likes to laugh and well....Justus you have just seen. Now he is also going to be important since it's quite evident he is the opposite of Tetricus' current mindset.

Edit:Also have to double check terms and edit lines to make sure people can at least understand him. It takes time writing Justus but it's fun.

Chapter 18
Inferus escorted Justus to his new chamber, all the way there he kept talking. “So betoken me of Lord Tetricus, his heart seemeth troubled.” As he said betoken, he guessed that he wanted information on his master. But he was right, he is troubled. “He...learned certain truths.” “Really?, What sort of sooth’s?” “That we are all slaves, faith is pointless, worship is pointless. This is all a show.” The phoenix guard shifted in annoyance. “I can see the problem. His heart is broken, thy words confirm 't. Doth not worry I shalt restore our lord.” “Restore? What do you mean to do?” “I shalt show him faith. I hast seen many despair like him. Worry not cook of the 4th.” “My name is Inferus, my lord.” “Inferus? That is an odd name. But I just wanteth to point something out. Thy halls stinks of chaos spawn.” As he mentioned chaos spawn his heart almost twisted into a knot, the terminator continued to speak. “Doth not beest depress'd, to beest a chaos spawn is to beest one with the gods. They moveth by the gods wilt, they art divine in a sense. I suspect that is what betid to the captain of the company.”

Inferus stopped “there is nothing divine about them….” “Oh? If 't the one thou cared for wast not reduce to a spawn would Tetricus beest our lord? Would any of those thou gathered beest hither? Haply slaanesh hath a plan thou doth not see yet. Hast faith cook of the 4th.” It was like the terminator could read him completely. “Tell me lord Justus...what did you see in this vision yours?” He nodded “The vision...Did show me a broken ship, a broken band of warriors. In the centre wast a leader. He wast not sure of what path to walketh, he wast not sure of what road he shouldst taketh. So he fell to darkness, he hates everyone, himself the most. But slaanesh did whisper in mine ear to leaveth mine brothers, mine primarch, he giveth his blessing for me to leave. The dark prince, the lady did show me this very ship. So I did wend to yond through a portal and treated with annoying mortals.” Inferus for some reason could not help but believe him. But he had another question. “Why do you call yourself immortal? I can’t believe such a thing.” “'t is the sooth, I am immortal.” “But how are you immortal?” “I worship slaanesh through mine body through mine body I receive pain, pain is turned into pleasure and through pleasure one can obtain perfection. The battlefield is the most holy temple of the dark prince. Mine faith sustains me, mine drive keeps me alive.” “Right, but you haven’t explained how you are actually immortal. That could just be a figure of speech.” “I hast not been able to prove 't yet, mine brothers keepeth me from charging the foe lines alone.They call me fool, no more brain than stone and they tell me I shouldn't charge ahead. They do not hast faith in me.” Inferus shook his head in almost disbelief. “So you don’t know if you are actually immortal.” “I am immortal.” Justus responded.

Inferus sighed heavily, they eventually reached his room door he gestured to it. “This is your chamber my lord.” The terminator stared at the door he nodded. But then he looked down the hallway. “I wish to see Tetricus, whence is his cubiculo?” As he said cubiculo from what he understands from his books it means room. Or bedroom. “I can take you to him.” “Leadeth the way, I am eager to speaketh with him!” So he did, Inferus wondered what exactly he wanted to speak to his master about?

***

Tetricus sorted through the planets, they need a world to attack. They should have enough with the human forces. But he had to pick the right world, eventually he picked out the planet of Dimistha, he zoomed into the planet and he could see the city. Visix prime is recovering from an attack, there are also astartes on that world. Imperial fists. The city itself had anti-air guns but no walls. So there was a long trench set several miles from the city. He smiled “it will cost some mortal lives...but we need a challenge. I want to see what my new brothers can do. We can’t drop into the city...” “What is going on hither?” Tetricus groaned in annoyance, he turned to the door to see his apprentice with the fanatic. “Master he wanted to see you.”

The phoenix guard strode up to him, he could see he is staring at the galaxy map. “This is beautiful...thou hast used thy witchcraft in a wonderful way.” “Thank you for the compliment but what do you want?” “ I hast cometh to asketh wherefore hast thou lost faith mine lord.” He is asking about his faith again, he curled his lips in annoyance. “Faith is meaningless, the dark prince cares for excess and pain. That’s it.” “That is just the surface mine lord, I betoken thou that the dark prince is far more grand.” “There is nothing “grand” we obey his whims nothing more.” “We art meiny, not slaves. The dark prince cares for his meiny, if 't they serveth well.” “He does not care! My captain was the best of us! Yet he was reduced to a spawn!” he hissed. “He wast turned into a spawn for a reason mine lord, thither is a purpose in all the gods doth.” “For a reason!?” Eldritch power claimed his body, he felt the need to tear apart the one in front of him. Justus simply stood there. He raised his hand. “ 'twill beest pointless to attack me mine lord, I am immortal.” Tetricus was about to test that but he stopped.

He relaxed for a moment. He pointed at the trench “If you are immortal can you take that trench by yourself?” The phoenix guard stared at it, he nodded. “I shalt and I can. If 't be true taking the trench restores who is't art mine lord I shalt doth 't.” “You will die, the imperial fists have heavy weapons and guardsmen aiding them in the trench.” Justus dismissed him with a wave of his hand. “Doth not worry brother, I am immortal. Mine faith shalt carryeth me to victory.” “Very well...we shall watch you a few miles away. I am eager to see...your faith.” Justus nodded again, he could see his apprentice sighing heavily. “Why must this b-” The phoenix guard turned to his apprentice. “Doth not tryeth to cease me cook of the 4th, this hath to beest done for his sake.” Tetricus chuckled “for my sake? Go then get ready for war. You will see that the dark prince is not as you believe.” The terminator turned to him, he shifted downwards to bow, he then strode out of his chamber.

His apprentice frowned “master...he is not immortal.” “I know, I guess he just believes he is.” “Then why did you do that?” “Because...I don’t want a lie walking on the ship.” “I-I...see.” He stared at the planet, this will be the first conquest amongst many.

Shorter chapter today, but you know something cool is going to happen next chapter right? Right?

Chapter 19
The skies were now calm, instead of the grey smog of war it was now clear. Arthur held his stalker bolter tightly, he was on guard duty with his squad in the trench, he felt it was not necessary but his captain felt otherwise. The company bled to push back the heretics, they bled with the human guardsmen in the trenches. None of the heretics could get past the trench, the city was untouched. The anti-air guns have also kept ships and drop pods from landing in the city, forcing the enemy to get through their defense first.

He was glad that the enemy is gone, but they needed to move onto new fronts, new wars. In this dark age the assaults of the heretic are unending. He was about to sigh, until he heard a sound. He could hear the roar engines, he looked up to see thunderhawks piercing the skies. A few broke off heading back to the ruined heretic camp a few miles away. Arthur narrowed his eyes, the ships held words and oaths to the dark gods, the symbols also caused his stomach to turn slightly. Despite being an astartes he never got used to seeing the symbols of heresy. He then barked out several orders. “Form up! We are being attacked again!” Everyone went to the edge of the trench and aimed weapons down the field. Orson grunted “they never learn…” his brother gripped his rocket launcher tightly. “Heretics are fools brother, we will send them back to the darkness.” “Aye...no-wait a minute.” He pointed upwards. “One of the thunderhawks are lingering.” Arthur looked up again, his brother was right, a thunderhawk was setting down in the middle of the field. “Why is it setting down in the killzone?” “Want me to blast it?” “No, save ammunition the thing inside might actually be our concern.” He could see everyone has fingers on triggers, he gave an order for everyone to hold.

The bay doors of the thunderhawk opened, from it a lone heretic terminator strode down the landing bay. The thunderhawk closed it’s landing bay doors and then flew off. Arthur furrowed his brow in confusion. “What is it thinking? Standing on the open field by itself?” “Who knows what goes on in their minds? Permission to open fire?” “I will take the traitor down.” “Very well sergeant.” He aimed down the sights, the heretic’s eye lenses was burning with a blue inferno.

Arthur aimed for it’s head, the heretic waved at him. The gesture caused him to kiss his teeth in disgust. He fired his bolter, the bolter shell crashed into it’s face, causing it to rear back slightly, the heretic staggered back a few steps. “That...is strange.” “What is?” “It should be dead, I hit it right in the face.” The heretic was still for a moment, it began to speak. Their vox carried it’s voice to them. “This doth feel….Wonderful. I wish to returneth what thou did giveth me…” It’s head flicked back to them, half its face is gone revealing a skull, the hollow socket still holding the burning blue flame. But in a few seconds, the flesh phased back with a pink light, the armour that was ruined was also restored. The heretic then stroked it’s chin. “Prithee surrender and embrace the dark prince, or doth thou wanteth me to teachest thou about the lady?” Arthur fired several rounds into the heretic emptying his magazine, even though he did not understand him, he did not want to hear him speak. He quickly reloaded and continued to fire. But the heretic’s wounds kept vanishing, his broken form returning to normal, but what made it worse is that it kept speaking. “Ah....joyous pain, but I wish to betoken all of you....” His next words, his voice turned incredibly deep, almost menacing, in his long years of serving, Arthur has never felt a cold shudder down his spine. The sensation is alien to him. “I am immortal.” The terminator began charging down the field taking all of his bolter fire. “Pain is a prayer! Pleasure is a prayer! Through them I reacheth for perfection! Hark! See me and rejoice in what is coming to thee!” the heretic shouted.

Arthur gave the order “open fire!” Along the trench all of them began opening fire, he gave Orson a look to hold. They would not waste precious missiles on something like this. Las fire and bolter fire crashed into the heretic, blowing holes in his armour, searing flesh but he just roared in pleasure and continued to charge towards them as his body was restored in a few moments. “Have at thee! Doth not flee! Doth not runneth! Pain and pleasure is coming to thee!” In the trench the guardsmen began panicking, he could see eyes darting to the other side of the trench. Even the commissar was taking a few glances. “Hold fast! The emperor is watching!” His words reached them everyone continued pouring fire into the heretic. Even plasma fire was not stopping him, he simply screamed in rapture. “Can thee see mine wonderful dark prince? They fear what is coming! Wherefore!? Soon they wilt see the nectar of pain! Grant me strength oh dark prince! Grant me the wilt and power to grace these folk with thy love!” Arthur bit his lip, he flicked to Orson. “Fire the rocket launcher! Take it down!” he barked.

Orson nodded, he aimed the rocket launcher at the heretic, he was about a mile away from them. “Target is locked sergeant, shall I fire?” “Do it!” His brother pressed the trigger, a gout of smoke greeted the back of the weapon as the missile hurtled towards the heretic. It stopped for just a second as the missile crashed into it’s form. A gout of debris and smoke washed over the traitor. When no voice was heard for several seconds, everyone relaxed. But Arthur waited for the smoke to clear, what he saw was a heretic on his knees, half of his body is blown away, he still gripped his power weapon in the other hand. He smiled “it’s done, now we have to re-” A great cry of pleasure erupted from the traitor. It spoke with a gargled voice. “I could nev'r dream of feeling like this! Thank thee! I am almost thither! Just stayeth while I receiveth to thee!” He struggled back onto his feet, the meat and armour that was missing from his body was being restored. “Fire again brother!” he shouted. Orson loaded another missle. He fired again.

The missle smashed into the heretic, everyone was panicking, he could see it in their eyes. They are praying that the heretic will stay down. They all waited with bated breath as the smoke cleared, what they saw was the heretic vomiting, he could also spot blood mixed with it. He slowly looked up to reveal burnt black hair, a portion of his face is missing along with his body. But it still gripped its weapon. He breathed out a gurgled groan “I thank thee, but I cannot die...I am immortal...I...am almost thither.” Arthur shook his head “Ope-” The heretic quickly got up and began running, a smile of glee running across it’s ruined features. But he only saw that for a few seconds before his body was restored again. “The body is a holy vector, through ‘t we worship the dark prince…” His speed was abnormal now, he was just a few metres away. “Orson!” “He is too close! I can’t use the rocket launcher!” “Close combat weapons!” As he gave the order, the guardsmen began fleeing from the trench, even the commissar executing a few was not able to stop the tide of bodies trying to climb up the otherside.

Arthur ignored them, as always mortals fail when it counts most. The heretic was now a few paces away. He threw his bolter aside and drew his chainsword and bolt pistol. His brothers did the same. The heretic then lumbered into the trench, crushing several of the guardsmen. It then shifted to them, the heretic waved at him. “Greetings! Doth thee wish to heareth of the most joyous god in the cosmos? I can teachest thee through thy body!” The first of his brothers charged, he bought his chainsword down upon the traitor, he gripped the weapon, it tore through his hand, he could hear the teeth of the chainblade tearing at the flesh. The traitor nodded. “This doth feel most wondrous! Now 't's mine turn!” The terminator rammed it’s spear into the chest of his brother, he yelped as the terminator twisted the weapon and slowly pulled his spear out. “I am taking mine time so thou can enjoy 't. Doth thee heareth the lady’s song?” Arthur just watched his brother trying hard not to scream, he could not allow this, he charged. “For the emperor brothers!”

The heretic removed his power spear from his dead brother he planted the haft into the ground and began pulling out the chainsword stuck in his hand. “Just a moment, let me taketh this out.” He pulled the chainblade out of his hand, he flexed it as it was restored to functionality within seconds. The traitor then quickly grabbed his power weapon, the second brother that met him he removed his head. The third he impaled and threw over his head. Now it was only him and Orson. Orson charged the traitor, he bought his chainblade up and then down, the heretic blocked the attack with the haft of his spear. He pushed his brother back and thrusted, stabbing him right through the chest. The heretic stepped forward and slowly pushed Orson off his weapon, his brother tumbled to the ground with a thud. The traitor nodded in satisfaction. Arthur found his charge blunted with the death of Orson, he slowly ground to a stop. He shook his head “w-what are you?” The heretic waved it’s hand to downplay what he just did. “Greetings Arthur! Cometh shalt we pray to the dark prince? Also as I did do sayeth I am immortal. I am justus the Dateless, Justus the Immortal.” Arthur ground his teeth he had no idea how it knew his name, but he hated the one before him. “Nothing is immortal!” He continued onward, stepping over the corpses of his brothers. The heretic just stood there, Arthur did a diangle slash across the heretic’s breastplate, he just took it. The teeth tore into the armour, sparking until he could hear the teeth of his weapon greeting meat. The traitor hummed as he did this. “Thou shouldst push on thy blade a bit harder, the teeth wilt bite deeper.” “W-What!?” The heretic bought its fist back and punched him in the face.

The sheer force caused his head to shake, even though he wore a helmet. He staggered back letting go of his weapon. Then he felt himself tumbling back onto the ground, a great and sharp pain consumed his legs. He panted as he looked ahead of him to see his legs are a few paces away. “Since thou wast such a valorous sport, I wilt allow thou to feeleth a most wondrous amount of pain. Sing as thee dies, haply slaanesh might embrace thy soul.” The terminator strode over to him removing the chainsword from its chest. The heretic turned its spear downwards as the wound vanished. “T's a good thing that I know how to keepeth people alive, now sing. Sing for the dark prince so mine lady can heareth.” He started to stab him with his spear, again and again. He tried to hold back his voice, he did not want to give the traitor what it wanted, but soon as the weapon was brought down on his eye? He screamed his lungs out.

***

Tetricus walked with his entourage to the trenches, Justus has done the impossible, all of them watched it from the distance. He frowned “he can’t be immortal…” He recalled seeing his broken form being restored again and again. “This must be some kind of….trick.” “Master just accept it.” said Inferus. He looked down to him, the eye lense of his helmet glinted slightly. “He proved himself, to you and the warband.” His apprentice’s words caused him to sigh heavily, he is correct. If he was honest with himself...after seeing what he just did? Justus reminded him of a mix between Taurus and Silentus. The best of both of them.

Eratus chuckled, the vox of his helmet almost made it sound like a rasp. “I must take blood samples...perhaps it could aid me in my research? Do I have permission Tetricus?” “You have to ask our brother.” “Hmm, I wonder if he will say yes?” Cassius scoffed “what he did had no beauty in it though.” “Is it fair for you to say that? I have heard how you eat.” Tetricus said curtly. The prefector said nothing. They soon reached the trench he could see limbs flying up in the air and soldiers fleeing back to the city in the distance. He looked down to see Justus drenched in blood. “I was wrong. I am s-” The terminator shifted to him and looked upwards to him. “Nay, doth not apologize the fact thou art bethinking such a thing is enough. Betoken me doth thou feeleth better mine lord?” Tetricus thought about it, he had to admit he felt a sudden surge to go on. He could not explain it. “Perhaps, now we need to move.” The phoenix guard nodded. “This is good, but thither is a problem.” “What sort of problem is there?” “The trench wast wide enough for me to doth battle, but 't's too high for me to climb out. The stairs by mine estimate is a few miles aroint.” Tetricus groaned slightly in annoyance.

He knelt and offered his hand. “Take it.” “I am too heavy for thou to pull me out mine lord.” “Do not worry about that.” The terminator nodded, he took his hand. He began to slowly float upwards through his telekinesis. Tetricus slowly rose, Justus then took a step onto the edge once he got high enough and walked onto the field. Justus gave a grunt of thanks, but then he heard a sound. He turned and looked up to see black gunships piercing the skies, they landed several metres away from them. But the symbol on them caused him to grimace, the eye, the symbol of the black legion. As the landing bay doors opened, a group of terminators and a few astartes approached them. Cassius placed his hand on the handle of his blade, ready for a possible battle. But he remained relaxed, they have to use diplomacy, they don’t have the strength to take on a black legion warband.

The leader wore a fur cloak with his terminator armour, the colour of his armour was black, gold and pink. “The children of torment…” Justus spat in disgust. “They art all traitors…” He gripped his phoenix spear in both hands. The leader of the warband stood in front of him. “Do you lead this rabble?” “This rabble is the 4th.” Tetricus responded. The terminator lord laughed, the vox of his helmet made it sound almost like a roar. “I am Damian, lord of this host. I have come with an offer.” “An offer?” “Yes, Abbadon wishes for you to join the black legion, for you see the lies the primarch’s have spun around us.” Tetricus grumbled slightly, what is concerning him is why they are approaching him now? “So tell me? Why have you come to me in the middle of a raid?” Damian shook his head “I was coming here to clean up the mess of a failure, it was just happen chance that you were on this world also. But the warmaster does want you to join the black legion.” The offer caused him to think for a moment for some reason Taurus came to his mind. Plus it’s clear they have been watching them for a long time. Abbadon does not just extend that offer to anyone. “Why did you not approach my captain, when he was alive? I assume you have been watching us for a long time.” The black legionnaire flexed his power claws. “Your captain was blind, trying to change the mind of someone who ruined the third in the first place.” Damian said dismissively.

Damian then relaxed his hand “I will only offer you this chance once, I knew Adelram, we used to be part of the same company. Now he is dead, destroyed by his father. Cornelius was blind to the fact that the legion would not change, his ignorance to the powers also was his undoing. So make your choice, do you want to end up like them?” Justus whispered to him “Mine lord, betoken this one to wend and englut excrement.” Tetricus found his eyes almost bulged out of his head hearing that, rejecting him in such a fashion would be a death sentence. “I wish for this warband to become prominent in the third legion Damian. I know of the mistakes of Adelram and my departed captain. But I want victories for the third legion, even though it’s a broken husk. Also you are not above chaos, nor is the black legion or abbadon. That...is what I also learned. I am sure you have thought about it? Let’s say Abbadon reaches terra, do you think the gods will snatch victory away from him?” Damian grunted in annoyance. “That won’t happen.” “Oh really? Do you know the minds of a hurricane that moves in random directions? My answer...is no.” Damian sighed heavily “so many of the third don’t see they are being used.” “We are all being used Damian.” He gave a small shrug and did a wave. “We are leaving these fools to die by the whims of their pathetic primarch.” The black legion turned away and returned to their gunships.

As they lifted off Justus grasped his shoulder and shook it. “Well done! So many of the third falleth to their honeyed whispers and promises!” Tetricus gave a weak smile he looked over to Justus. “I would choose you over them anyday brother.” Justus nodded in agreement. “Now mine lord we hast a city to pillage!” They all turned to the city in the distance. “Yes we do...let’s take our time shall we?”

I hope people liked the chapter!

Also...

 shinros wrote:
I hope people liked the chapter!

Also...

Spoiler:

I tend not to put curses in my story, but I see the odd one here and there in 40k books. But I wanted to do it a somewhat different fashion hope it's not tasteless for people.

I don’t mind. In high intensity situations it’s a natural response.

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:
I hope people liked the chapter!

Also...

Spoiler:

I tend not to put curses in my story, but I see the odd one here and there in 40k books. But I wanted to do it a somewhat different fashion hope it's not tasteless for people.

I don’t mind. In high intensity situations it’s a natural response.

Okay! One more thing, do tell if you have trouble understanding what Justus says.

Yea i didnt even notice honestly.

 Dayknight wrote:

Yea i didnt even notice honestly.

Hmm it seems that it worked! Justus said something vulgar in a polite way. A mate of mine who has no idea about 40k found it amusing how I framed the insult.

Chapter 20
Tetricus advanced through the city with his forces they yelled and screamed for the dark prince. Justus and Inferus was with him, for some reason neither wanted to leave his side when he faces the captain unlike Eratus who wanted to gather materials or Cassius who desired to seek out the champions of the company. Oddly he has noticed is that Senshika has not been with his apprentice lately. He found himself voicing his confusion. “Where is your companion Inferus?” “She...likes to be Erastus and Resis.” “Why?” “I don’t know, she gets on well with with the corpus. I don’t know what she is thinking, but I have notcied she smiles whenever she speaks with Resis.” “Thou art walking a different path, that is evident cook of the 4th.” His apprentice looked up to the terminator “what do you mean?” Justus shook his head “I hast not seen much of this...Senshika but her eyes and what thou art declaring tells me that she would rather beest with the apothecary and his ilk.” Inferus grumbled “I-I don’t understand, we leave together. We practice together...why would she want to be with people she barely knows?” “Maybe it’s because my brother can give her what she wants?” His apprentice tutted “it’s impossible, he can’t give her emotion nor make her able to feel things.” “But she is reaching for a impossibility, there is nothing wrong with that. Imagine how she might of felt when you vanished for several weeks? You were reaching for an impossibility and you got it.” “To the detriment of our captain, my lord.” “Yes...to his detriment.” Tetricus said sadly.

As they made a corner, the street ahead of them the imperial fists have made a makeshift defensive point. Tetricus spotted the captain standing at the back. He pointed it staff at the enemy. “Take them! Tear to them to pieces!” The numbers on their side will overwhelm their defensive position, Justus’ breaking of the trenches means that all of their forces are preserved. But as his forces charged down the street, he felt...empty. He could go on, but he felt nothing, why? He asked himself. He was so sure of himself after rejecting the black legion lord, but this battle? There is no joy in it. His captain was always excited when victory was coming or assured. Why doesn’t he feel the same way?

He recalled being happy obtaining victory or perhaps it was because he was only happy when he was serving Taurus’ desire? A bullet whizzed past his head bringing him out of his thoughts. “I can think later…” He charged his staff with eldritch energy. “First I must deal with them…”

***

Cassius yawned, he shifted on his throne of corpses that he made for himself. At the moment it was quite snug and comfortable to sit on. Also the smell. The smell of blood, excrement and of cold sweat made his break more pleasing. He stabbed his charnabal sabre into the meat of the throne, he opened up his pouch and picked out a treat, one of the crispy breaded cakes Inferus made. He lifted his helmet slightly and began to eat, he groaned slightly as he started to chew. Who knew a slave could cook so good? That was his thought, his only thought. The champions of the company are weak, so he got bored rather quickly, that boredom died when the idea to make a throne out of their corpses hit him.

He then wondered should he leave this limping warband when the opportunity arises? They were his way off that rock, but he could see the witch is struggling. He doesn't know himself nor the way forward. The witch is a follower, it’s been bred into him. Instilled in him, but ever since his eyes changed to black, it chills him slightly. That if he did not hold back...if he unleashed everything he would captivate him completely. He took another bite “hmmmm...t-this tastes...so...good.” He muffled. Cassius grumbled, his brothers would all say to leave, none of them would want to serve a witch, all witchkin are flawed it was the mandate of Fulgrim. His departed brothers believed that completely.

But when he fought the witch, he saw something. Just for a moment, he was only disappointed afterwards at the state of the warband and his leadership qualities.. He swallowed “he is just another witch he will be consumed by his powers…” he has seen it many times in his old warband. His old lord would break down and convert the psykers belonging to other legions or even a loyalist chapter. But in a few weeks, their powers over overwhelm them, one time he saw a witch implode on himself.

He rubbed his neck slightly in irritation “should I leave?” He looked down to the treat. “But the food…” That is what he would miss. He was about to take another bite until he heard an inane screeching he sighed heavily, he knew who it was. He then stuffed the rest of the treat into his mouth, he quickly chewed and then swallowed. He placed his helmet back on and frowned. “What is it apothecary?” The mad scientist was followed by his creations. He pointed at him. “You are sitting on precious material! Get off it!” “It’s my throne, you can have it after I am done with my break.” He then heard an explosion, it came from the direction where Tetricus said he would go. Erastus relaxed “So...do you think he will win?” “He will, if he was not confident he would not let us go on our...little distractions. But what I am curious about is why are you following a witch? What do you stand to gain?” “Well...a lab, flesh through slaves and I don’t have to worry about Drukhari coming for my head.” “That’s not what I meant.” “Oh! You are unsure.” Cassius tutted slightly “I am not going to betray him if that is what you are thinking, I just want your opinion.” The apothecary shrugged “he is young he will get over it.” “Young?” “Yes, he is young when it comes to our...way of life. The 4th never stepped into the laer temple, they never grasped the reins of the dark prince. It trickled down to them that is evident, plus they were not at Terra remember? Fulgrim gathered all of us on Ullanor, but the 4th was missing. I also doubt they were involved in the legion wars either.” Cassius thought of the legion wars, the time when the third was prominent and the other legions knew their place. “I understand your point, but the question is will he grow up?” he was earnest with his question.

The apothecary tapped the eye lense of his helmet. “You have seen the eyes correct?” “It’s a minor gift apothecary.” “I don’t think so, I have been taking blood samples and his blood has changed dramatically. Just observing him, I don’t think he will react to normal stimulus.” “That is just a theory.” “No...I have so basis for this, when I am harvesting parts from slaves his new blood samples react, it moves like waves reacting to the screams of the materials.” Cassius shook his head “You may have faith, but I remain unconvinced.” He removed his blade and jumped off mound of corpses “take your materials apothecary.” Erastus nodded “right everyone! Prepare to harvest!” Erastus looked down to a woman with bone like arms. “Senshika will you aid me?” “Yes my lord I will!” She ran to the the mound of the corpses and picked up a large arm. Cassius caught another sound of of an explosion greeting his ear. The air is changing, he could feel it the hairs on his skin are standing on end. “I wonder what you are doing at the moment?” he asked himself.


***
Tetricus threw around the imperial fist like a ragdoll through his telekensis, his armour rent and burst. Blood leaked out, he could hear the drops, dripping on floor. He then threw him aside killing the loyalist. The tide of human bodies were overwhelming the loyalists he could even spot some of the mortal guardsmen among the rabble, they could sense where the battle was swaying. Brushing his mind over the chaotic mass, he could feel their despair, but mixed in with it was a sense of...freedom. Shackles that have been removed from their wrists. They feel liberated, the despair is shifting to joy as they realise that they can do anything they want, if their heart wills it. They follow because they want to.

For some reason he saw himself in those mortals, he wondered if he was like them? Not a care in the world, just simply follow the supposed leader, follow the leader to new glories and excesses. “Heretic!” his thoughts ended, he turned to the imperial fist captain that was charging towards him. Smacking mortal’s aside with his fists and slicing them in half with his eviscerator. His eyes moved to those who are dying, their faces held the picture of rapture, he even saw thanks lining their faces, they were thanking him for bringing them here. He even heard some gurgled that they go to join slaanesh.

Without even realising it the imperial fist captain, is giving them the greatest joy. The captain roared “You will die here! Come and face me!” His challenge caused his gaze to move to the loyalist again, he stared at him as stampeded onward. He could see the panic in his run, he could see him trying to push back the fear, he desires to kill him, to take the head of the leader at least before his company dies. “You know nothing of honour! You spat on all your oaths!” the imperial fist shouted. Tetricus found himself thinking of Taurus, what would he do here? Knowing him he would face the captain and flawlessly kill him in one on one combat. He looked around, he could sense expectation, even Justus was eagerly awaiting what he is going to do next.

His apprentice was not even looking at him, strangely he saw that as an act of faith, misplaced or not. Tetricus sighed slightly as the leader...he must put on a show.

He raised his hand, slowly freezing the loyalist, his run turned into a jog, then a walk, now he stood in one placing trying hard to raise his weapon. Tetricus strode up to him. “Y-You..h-have...n-no...h-honour.” The loyalist stammered. “Honour...is for fools. Now die like one.” He tapped his staff on the loyalists armour it began to fall off his body, crumbling away to nothing until he was naked.

Tetricus then placed his staff on his forehead, then he tugged it back, tearing away the captain’s flesh, leaving red glistening meat, he could see his muscles pulsing as his skin left his staff and slouched onto the floor. The scream that came from that action? Overcame the din of battle, it bought silence to everything else save the captain’s torment. That sound sang to all his followers, he could tell everyone froze, staring at the screaming imperial fist.

His comrades were the first to move, eager to save their captain. But his forces piled on them, a tide of bodies trying to keep them from interrupting the spectacle that was occurring even if their skulls and bodies were torn asunder. His warband cried out for him to show them more, to slowly tear him apart. Which he did, he tapped each part of his body, his staff sizzling on red meat, causing a great yelp of pain. At this moment, this...angel of death cried out in pain like any other mortal, he could sense that he desired an end. But he just did not want to give it his warband still wanted more. Tetricus repeated the action tapping his staff on his body causing pieces of meat fall in tides. He also made sure to invoke some measure of his power into the captain, to ensure he stays alive long enough to suffer and he suffered. His suffering was hard and long until there was only a skeleton standing there, inflamed gene-seed lined the floor, the ground around him awash with blood.

Tetricus clicked his fingers, the skeleton crumpled to the floor. He stared at the ruins of the loyalist and he felt nothing. He looked around to see the rest of the enemy forces are dead, he has won and still he feels nothing. Justus approached him laughing his heart out. “That wast most wondrous!” His laughter stopped for a moment, he stared at him. “I see...his torment did not sing to thou.” The phoenix guard shook his head. “Thy faith is still an ember...Hath his death wounded thou that much?” Nothing escapes him, despite the fact he barely knows him. “Taurus would always be excited...no matter how large or small the victory.” He could hear the cheers around him, Inferus walked over. “You are not him.” “What?” “You are comparing yourself to him. I think...you have do things your own way. Relax.” “I can’t relax!” The outburst was sudden, Justus and Inferus said nothing.

Tetricus frowned he flicked away from them. “Get everyone ready to leave.” he ordered. He clutched his staff tightly as he began walking away. He has to be careful for all of them. They can relax, he cannot. The gods are insidious and they can ruin everything at a moments notice, he can’t allow that to happen.

Chapter 21
Inferus went through his basic drills in the training room at the moment he is doing pull ups on a bar. But he was distracted. He wondered if Tetricus has truly gotten over their captain’s death? “No he hasn’t…” he said to himself. He pulled himself upwards and held it for several seconds, whenever training he makes sure to suppress his psychic powers to limit the strength he can bring to bear with his arms. He then lowered himself, Inferus’ mind then moved to what he could say or do? He then heard the training room door opening, he let go of the bar, his body covered in sweat.

He rubbed his neck and faced the door and to his surprise it was Senshika. “What is it?” She oddly did not meet his gaze, right away he guesses that she will say something he is going to dislike. “Inferus...I am going to live with Resis from now on.” His lips instantly curled into disgust, or perhaps it was annoyance? He couldn’t tell. “Why?” “She said Erastus will be able to help me, and we get on well. She said we are friends.” “Or she could be using you.” “You don’t meant that, you wish to hold onto me for whatever reason.” He said nothing, his annoyance was increasing. “Silentus told me...you crave attachment. Is that right?” He ground his teeth “it’s not like that.” “You are lying again.” “I am not lying! He might...he might tear you apart, he can’t give you what you want!” “And? I am willing to risk it.” “Why!? Aren’t you happy!?” He raged, he did not want her to go. She turned away from him and faced the door. “I don’t know what happiness is exactly...but I get a sweet taste in my mouth whenever I am around the apothecary and Resis. Right now my mouth is filled with bitterness being here with you.” She then pressed the button to open the door. “I already took my things from the bedroom.” She then walked out, the door slid shut as she left.

Inferus simply stared, dumbfounded with what has just occured. He found his breathing increasing, but then he relaxed as he thought of his master. He has him, he doesn’t need Senshika at all. He can live without her, who cares if she dies under the mad apothecary’s scalpel? He kept telling himself these things again and again, until he truly believed it. He wiped his brow of sweat. “Let me get changed...I will go see how master is doing..” His concern should be on him, Senshika can do what she wants and she could go die for all he cares.

Inferus found his mood soured as he left the training room.

***
Tetricus stared at the conjured map, “Where should we go next? Who should we kill?” He frowned. “Recruitment still hasn’t been completed. We still must be careful.” All of his brothers are elite in their own way but there is only so much they can do. He then heard his door opening, he had a good idea who it was. “What is it Inferus?” “I am worried about you my lord.” “Don’t be I am fine.” His apprentice strode to his side, he looked down slightly. “Then why am I worried?” Tetricus sighed heavily “how do you expect me to act? I can’t be myself, I have to lead. You should know this, unknown enemies are arrayed against us, I bet even Eidolon is waiting to pounce upon us for revenge.” He shook his head “If only...if only…” +I was there?+ The voice caused both of them to look around frantically, his eyes landed on the spot where his captain died. The familiar voice continued to pass through his mind. +So you still need me?+ Tetricus found his lips trembling “Yes…” he whispered.

A spirit rose from the spot, the pink light shifted until it eventually took the form of his captain. Inferus went into a battle stance. “We can’t trust it!” He ignored him, his eyes were locked on Taurus, if this is his spirit? The possibilities...his mind raced. He approached, the spirit stood still. Small pink flames played over his armour. “Is that really you?” His captain placed his hand on his chest. +It is I.” “Why? Who? How?” Taurus chuckled +We speak because he allows me to, I was dragged in chains to the foot of that throne...the snapping daemons, tongue and mouths drooling at a possible feast...I saw others who were in the same position. They were risen up...or cast down.+ “Right...I need some way to hold your spirit then I coul-” Taurus held his hand up. +I am tied to him now, I am here because he allowed it...and I made a bargain.+ Tetricus felt his hearts twist, he could find some way to revive him, he would sacrifice every mortal on the ship to do so. But what also concerned him is when he mentioned bargain. “What sort of bargain?” he asked +Salvation or damnation…+ He pointed past him, Tetricus turned slightly to see where he was pointing, Taurus finger was leveled at Inferus. +Kill him for me, brutalize him and tear him asunder my company sorcerer.+ Inferus’ eyes went wide, but he did not hesitate.

Tetricus strode up to him “Master w-what are you doing! Are you going to listen to a spirit!?” His hand reached out and grasped his neck. He picked him up from the ground. “It is his desire. If killing you gets him salvation I will do it.” “H-How..d-do...you...k-know...h-he is not...l-lying.” Inferus gasped for breath. “Why would he lie?” He bought him to his face. “We killed him, you should give your life gladly. If...if...we never picked you up he would still be alive...here with me.” His captain walked to his side. +Exactly, it was a mistake I regret. The dark prince wants him to die slowly Tetricus.+ He nodded, with his other hand he placed his finger on his forehead. A rune formed, it would suppress Inferus’ powers, this way his healing will be minimised.

He then threw him to the ground, he heard a bone breaking, Inferus shrieked in pain. He then bought his boot on top of his leg and crushed it. His apprentice cried out. Tetricus smiled at the thought of his captain obtaining salvation, the suffering of one for his brother, a brother he killed. +Good...this is good. Sto-+ He then heard bang on his door, it slid open to reveal Justus. “Go away. Now.” The phoenix guard looked at Inferus and then at him. “I sensed something wast afoot. So thou art giving into weakness then?” “Weakness!? What do you know!?” The terminator walked up to him. “Wherefore art thou injuring the cook of the 4th?” “For Taurus.” He gestured to the spirit. “So this is the weak captain? Wherefore art thou trying to stir mine lord off his path?” +Why do you seek to interrupt us? Do you care for the human?+ “Well yes, because if 't be true he dies I wilt hast no one to talk to.” His answer caused him to furrow his brow. “That’s it?” He shrugged “Also I care for thy spiritual health, doth thou hark to any random gheist that appears on a ship? Doth thou not question 't?” He began to tremble with fury, Inferus started to crawl, he stomped on his other leg causing him to yelp.

“It’s quite simple he dies and my captain achieves salvation. Don’t get in my way.” “Thou injure the cook again and I shalt, ponder, bethink for a moment or art thou no more brain than stone?” He cursed in frustration, he watched Justus grip his phoenix spear in both hands. “Recall mine lord, I am immortal.” +Don’t listen to him brother, continue!+ He couldn’t continue, Justus made it clear that he would stop him and no matter what he does he won’t die. He has seen it with his own eyes. “So...you just want me to think for a moment?” “Aye.” He stopped and calmed himself, his captain pointed at Inferus. +What are you doing! Kill him now!+ He sounded desperate, he has never known Taurus to be desperate. He frowned “Tell me more about this bargain captain.” +So you don’t trust me?+ “I...do. But I want to know about the bargain.” +Why does it matter? Or is it true? D-+ “Do you trust me captain? You have always been honest with me.” he said firmly.

The spirit flickered slightly he grunted +Why do you lead?+ The question took him off guard “because it’s your wish…” +So why do you still wish to follow? I can lead again...+ Taurus started to walk around him at the mention of leading again the knot his hearts made tightened. +Your hearts bleed...I can feel it...taste it...on my dead tongue.+ “I-I…” +I am dead...it’s your fault.+ “It is my fa-” Jutus grumbled in annoyance. “'t's through his own choices...that's the reason why he becometh a spawn, thou did nothing mine lord.” “It’s my fault!” he roared at the phoenix guard. “If I...did not help him!” he pointed at Inferus. “Taurus would have not fallen into that obsession!” +Exactly...so kill him. That’s an order.+ Tetricus raised his hand over Inferus, it glowed with eldritch power. Justus sighed while shaking his head. “He did not respect thou. He did not value or appreciate thou. He did not deserve thou mine lord, for if he has't cared for thy thoughts truly he would of heeded thy counsel. Thou did talk to him nay?” He froze as Justus spoke, he did try to talk to him. He dismissed his concerns, he tried. “Why didn’t you listen to me?” +I….+ “If you listened to me….just this one...time...you would be here.” For once he doubted, this was true doubt. A feeling he thought he would never have about Taurus. “I refuse...if you don’t tell me of this bargain I won’t do as you ask.” His captain stopped in front of him. He suddenly breathed out a sigh of relief +Thank goodness.+ “W-What?” +The dark prince wanted to see if you are still a follower or in other words if you are boring. You passed thankfully.+ “I don’t understand…” +The bargain is real, but if you chose to kill Inferus I would suffer eternal damnation, to be feasted upon for eternity, my soulfire will regrow just for the daemons within the palace to devour me again as a fine treat. That would of been my fate for eternity.+ As he spoke Tetriucs felt his rage building. “Why would you agree to such a bargain!? Are you an idiot!?” His captain shrugged +because I had faith in you, I would not hand the reins to anyone Tetricus. You are the captain now but you have to make it official in the eyes of...them.+ As he said them he could detect a hint of disgust.

He looked away slightly “I can’t do it...I am not like you.” +You are not meant to be like me in the first place. Using your initiative you found this fine fellow.+ He gestured to Justus. +Keep him close, you need reliable brothers Tetricus.+ “I will try.” +No not try, you will do it you idiot.+ “Y-Yes Taurus.” +Also enjoy breaking your enemies, you are different to me, you like different things it’s how you are. Relax...just run your race.+ He felt his shoulders sagging down slightly, like a great weight was lifting. “I am sorry...for what I did.” His captain said nothing for a moment, he then sighed. +It’s my own damn fault. But I have a way out at least, thanks to you.+ “I don’t understand what do you mean?” +Salvation, in other words apotheosis, I made a bet. I won it. Fulgrim thought me a fool and laughed at me as I made my offer.+ “You...made the offer?” +I did, the dark prince found it amusing so he agreed.+ His arm started to enlarge, just slightly and his gauntlets turned into talons. +Times up...you know what you must do. Make the galaxy scream our company’s name Cristian. Also...apologize to Inferus. That’s one last order. I might...not be the same after this...+ As he spoke his order he looked down to Inferus whose eyes are screwed shut due to the injuries. “Right…” Taurus’ spirit began to fold into itself, at it vanished he heard a scream and then a daemonic growl.

His spirit now gone achieving the “salvation” he bargained for. Tetricus then knelt and lifted up his apprentices body slightly. He sighed “I am sorry.” He removed the rune from his forehead. His leg’s began to quickly mend. Inferus gasped “I-I should be mad at you. I-I just don’t have the energy…” He picked him up. “Fine, I will carry you to your room. I don’t want Taurus coming to hound me as a daemon.” Justus nodded. “Thou maketh the right choice.” “What if I didn’t?” Justus voice turned low, it was almost threatening. “I would killeth thou.” The threat of death surprised him. “I assume you would return to our father afterwards?” He nodded again. “Glad I didn’t disappoint. Now if you would excuse me.” Justus stood aside and bowed slightly as he carried Inferus out of his chamber.

Oddly he felt ready for whatever the galaxy has in store for him.

Felt the last chapter was kinda needed. Also character development!

Haha very much so. That was alot of closure that both taurus deserved and the company needed..... and us too :') im not crying, your crying!

 Dayknight wrote:

Haha very much so. That was alot of closure that both taurus deserved and the company needed..... and us too :') im not crying, your crying!

Glad you liked it, his death was quite...sudden which was the point, I wanted to give the characters time to tumble a bit. I also felt that Taurus would know that his brother would stumble. I felt generally that Inferus and especially Tetricus needed this event. He had no closure as you said, he didn't know what to do. In a manner of speaking he was afraid to move onward. Now he feels ready.

edit: Noticed an error comes with writing late at night after work. :X

Shorter chapter today, more or less to close off the character development.

Chapter 22

Tetricus placed Inferus on his bed, he was frowning he could tell he was annoyed with him. “I apologised.” “It’s not about that. You almost lost your way. What if Justus was not there?” He cut right to the point, he sighed. “Fine...you are right.” His apprentice shook his head sighing slightly, he sat up and Tetricus could see he wanted to ask a question. “One thing that has me concerned is why did his spirit just pop up like that?” “That is a good question.” he mused on it. “Perhaps it’s due to the fact that my chamber is suffused with warp energy due to the map?” “Or maybe the dark prince is watching.” “To make me a proper slave…” that thought crossed his mind. What better way to do it than using his captain? If he was honest to himself Taurus did not achieve “salvation” and it’s likely that his captain knew that. Tetricus just thinks of his father, how would his departed captain change? He shook his head “such a fool...committing to such a gamble. But that’s just how he is...he was worried about me that much.” he said out loud. “But it worked out, didn’t it? As he said run your race. Don’t trouble yourself with such things my lord.” Inferus then looked around his room. “I have to do the same.” “What do you mean?” Tetricus asked.

Inferus slowly got off the bed “this room is pretty large isn’t it? Quite empty as well.” He looked around and he was right. “So I assume Senshika has decided to be with my brother?” “Yup, but I don’t care anymore. I have to reach higher so I can serve better. But I have a feeling I won’t be seeing her anymore.” “Why is that?” “Do you trust Erastus? I also assume the survival rate to create a corpus is quite...low.” Tetricus thought about it a moment, considering the amount of slaves he takes and the fact the corpus barely increase in number shows the operation might actually be quite dangerous. “I can see your point, so what do you aim to do now?” Inferus flicked his head over to the armour stand. “Train, that’s all I can do.” “Just like him.” “Yes my lord, just like him.” Inferus got up from the bed “so what are you planning to do my lord?” his apprenticed asked.

Tetricus thought about it for a moment he then smiled “I am going to contact a certain lord commander.” At the mention of lord commander Inferus simply raised his eyebrow.

***
She was strapped down to the bed, plastic tube connectors were attached to her body. From her understanding the pink liquid held in the strange device will be pumped into her body. The metal box like device sat on a metal table. Erastus hummed as he walked around the operating bed, he then smiled showing pearly white teeth. “This is your last chance.” he said joyfully. Senshika shook her head “I am ready.” The apothecary gave a small laugh, he placed the oxygen mask on her face. As it was attached, she could smell something strange. Her body tingled slightly. Erastus then walked away and wheeled a cart to the bed, the metal cart held a metal collar that goes around the neck and somewhat down the back. She could also see small glass tubes connected to it.

The apothecary then walked to the device, he flicked the switch. The pink contents then travelled up the tubes and soon as it hit her body. She seized up, Senshika could feel her body burning it became awash with sensation. She chuckled “finally…” She didn’t want to struggle she let the concoction do it’s work. Erastus gave her a warm smile “you will be perfect.” “Perfect?” He nodded “You will be shaped into something more beautiful, you will be close to perfection...elevated due to my hands. You made the right choice.” The burning sensation then crept up to her head. It seared and in reaction she clenched her teeth. “By the way, what you are breathing in through the oxygen mask is a gas I developed. It enhances the pain one feels. It should start about….now.” Senshika found her mouth chittering, blood began trailing down her nose.

Erastus stroked his chin “I found it quite interesting that perhaps due to your mental state, you couldn’t feel any emotion. I saw a new challenge, a challenge that I will crush.” She could not exactly hear him, the agony was wonderful. She never felt such pain for before, in her heart or her body. Then came the euphoria, she gagged. Erastus then turned the dial on the device, the burning sensation that gripped her body increased. She screamed, the apothecary chuckled “that’s it...just accept it. Don’t resist.” She could no longer think, it was like her mind and body is coming apart. Her eyes...rolled back and the pain did not end.

***
Tetricus walked away from the bridge, the message has been sent. He held a copy of the message in his hands.

Dear Lord Commander Eidolon

I am sure you are aware of the departure of the captain of the 4th. But even so I will carry on in his footsteps, so this is a declaration, throw us into the hardest warzone available. You will see the 4th is not dead, you will see that we will carry your forces to victory….as always.

From Tetricus, lord of the 4th.

He nodded, he knows that he will take the bait. Now he just has to wait. As he bought the message away from his eyes he saw Faust. He finds it so strange how the noise marines in general come and go. “What is it?” The noise marine strode up to him. “How does it feel to be sure?” “Sure? Of what?” “Of what road to walk.” Tetricus thought about it for a moment. “There is not a single road but thousands.” Faust shifted somewhat in surprise, like he said something unexpected. “Brother...we must conquer every single one. We are reaching for a impossibility there might to even be an end. Even if we have to make the galaxy scream to walk a specific road we will do it.” Faust nothing, he walked passed him but he continued to speak. “You of all people should know the joy of screams and I will show you many of our enemies screaming in torment and pain. Just believe in me.” He could hear Faust turning, he called out. “I am eager...my lord!” At the mention of lord he smiled, he wants it to be captain soon. He won’t allow himself to be referred to such a title yet.

He clutched the copy of the message and burned it to cinders. “I will show all of them what we can truly do.”

Chapter 23
Tetricus sat at the table, he tapped his fingers upon the surface and looked up to the map. He found the waiting aggravating, but the lord commander will respond. It’s been a week, a week of waiting. He guessed that maybe Eidolon is picking a warzone that will certainly kill them. He gestured to a shelf nearby, a book left the shelf and floated to him. He grasped it tightly and opened it up, his eyes scanned the tome all of it is in the dark tongue. “Here I am waiting...when I could be improving myself…” he said out loud. At the moment he is halfway through the tome. It was incomplete but it talks of harnessing power through pain, he used a minor power on a mortal when he retrieved Justus. In the end he felt that he has only scratched the surface of what he can do. He flicked the page and read the next few lines. He mouthed them slowly. “Pain...is power. Pain allows you to free your mind, in that rapturous agony you can reach out further..higher...some even transcend.” It then spoke of the ritual mortification and degradation they inflict on themselves and each other.

The only conclusion he could come to is that these people were extremely masochistic to the point it puts some of his brothers to shame. He turned the next page. It spoke of their priest sect, gothi’s and gyoja’s. Tetricus assumed they were all sorcerers and psykers, the ruling class of whatever dead culture wrote this tome. But what impressed him is the powers they commanded. Many even allowed themselves to be impaled on pillars, drawing out their agony with other members of the priest caste sustaining them.

Also another thing he noted is that they hold blot’s, ritual sacrifices and celebration that bought the eyes of the dark prince upon them. It was not a simple case of killing the one to be sacrificed, their slow death is drawn out over several hours. That produces the greatest results.

He was about to turn the next page until he heard his door opening. He looked up from the tome to see Inferus wheeling the food cart to the table. As he got to the table his apprentice bowed and placed the iron mug container holding some recaf and his meal onto the table. After that he picked up a cup from the cart, wiped with with a cloth and placed it next to his meal. Inferus smiled “your meal my lord.” He handed him a knife and fork, Tetricus put his tome to one side and started to eat.

He worked through the meal quickly, he wanted to get back to reading it’s even evident to his apprentice who’s gaze was slowly moving to the book. He raised his eyebrow. “What are you reading master?” Tetricus swallowed the food in his mouth. “About a dead civilisation, they harnessed power through pain.” “I...see.” He could see Inferus is becoming slightly concerned, he could tell his eye is shifting slightly. “What is it?” “Master what else does that tome tell you?” “It speaks of their priest caste, I assume that gothi is the male term and gyoja is the female term.” As those words left his lips almost all the colour drained from his apprentice’s face, he dabbed a spare white cloth on his brow. Tetricus smiled “so you know something.” “I-I…” “Tell me please.” he made note to say please firmly, if Inferus had knowledge that can help him he wanted it.

His apprentice sighed heavily “they are my ancestors. Remnants of them existed on my home world, but they were a shadow of their former selves.” “I see, do they still exist?” “No I killed all of them. They tried to bury me alive and that whole event was your father playing games again.” At the mention of his father he frowned slightly, but that did not deter him. He looked at his missing eye. “I recall you sacrificed your eye for something.” He had a hint of what it is, but now he is putting Inferus on the spot. Inferus bought his hands together he burned the white cloth to cinders. Tetricus also disliked how his arms clicked unnaturally as he did the action. “I traded my eye for knowledge of my people.” “Right so give me the knowledge of their brand of sorcery.” “It’s….not that simple.” “How so?” Inferus creased his brow. “Well it’s like I am actually there whenever I seek out the knowledge plus with your training I am not sure what will happen.” As he spoke that caused him to frown, just slightly. He can tell that he is lying he is shifting slightly. But he must be lying for a reason. “Alright forget I asked then. I will do this the old fashioned way.” He continued working through his meal, once he was done he handed the plate and mugs to Inferus. He smiled “thank for understanding my lord.” he packed everything into the cart. “Think nothing of it, but that knowledge will be useful considering our current circumstances think about it.” Inferus turned ridgid. “Taurus did not need such things, we...can’t be like everyone else.” “I know, but look at our departed captain. He failed, he failed completely and utterly. Even if I don’t want to admit it….that is the truth. As he said I should do things my way, we are not the same people.” He let his words hang in the air, he apprentice simply turned to him and bowed, he then left the room.

Now alone he picked up the book again. He started where he left off. “The things we could do if we fully understood this form of sorcery….” Tetricus also knew of the experiments Erastus is conducting, having a whole army of the corpus they would have no need of simple mortal servants. He hoped that his apprentice realises that he is also doing this for both of them.


***
Inferus left the tunnel, he had a feeling that Tetricus would not stop. In the end he would have to give him what he wants. But all he has is bad memories of his ancestors, that’s why he ended their existence. He destroyed the king that united them and the remnants, he had an inkling that his master knew that he was lying. But if he was honest with himself, he was goaded and manipulated into doing it and that was the only way he could get rid of the neverborn that he shared his body with.

He sighed and pushed the cart down the hallway, he knew what was coming up and he was prepared for it as always. After a few minutes walking he saw the large frame of Justus. “Greetings cook of the 4th!” he waved at him. Inferus gave a weak smile. “Hello my lord.” The phoenix guard strode over to him and began to walk by his side. “Art thou done with delivering all the meals?” “I am.” It’s evident that he always waits for him because he has no one to talk to and Tetricus is busy most of the time. Justus nodded, the embers that gripped his eyes flared slightly. “I tormented a few slaves to teachest them the glory of the dark prince but they expired. Doth thou desire any lessons?” In the past he would say yes, but he is beyond that now, whatever Justus has done to the slaves he has committed far worse upon his body. “No, I might train after I get back to my room.” “ Diligence that is valorous, but I can see thou art upset about something.” He wondered how the terminator is so good at reading people? Or maybe he is obvious about how he feels? “My master wishes for me to get the knowledge on a form of sorcery. But…” “This knowledge wounds thou.” He stated it like a fact, Inferus slowly nodded. “It does, I can see my ancestors in their glory day and it’s your legion that reduced them to nothing. I only took what I needed to form a cult in a mockery of those glories. They were all seekers of pain, they all used pain as power even those whose sight is not opened. I destroyed all of that for a warband I can barely remember...perhaps if I had all my memories I would feel differently about it? But it should remain in the past.”

Justus grumbled slightly “Did they hast giant snakes?” “Yes they did.” “Then I know of the people thou speaketh of. That is a great regret of mine. In hindsight they would of maketh wonderful meiny. The things the third couldst of learned about pain and the power of it…” His words caused his brow to furrow, he guessed that he was there. He was there in person and remembered them. Justus coutinued speaking. “They did has't most wondrous floating pillars. People wast impaled upon them screaming out in rapturous prayer for the dark prince. Those same pillars shot out pink lasers that caused mine brothers to burn slowly to death extending their agony, their deaths were slow. In the temple city, the high serpent attacked with 't's consorts. Oddly they did has't most wondrous strength and artform but the lord of the third dispatched them. After that did the king did offer his dare.” At the mention of the king’s dare, he recalled that he challenged Fulgrim to single combat. He lost that was the obvious outcome but got one attack through. The dark prince saw his desire and gave him the power to reach it. But what he picked out is the high serpent, it had consorts.



He thought about it for a moment, his mind started to turn and then it came to him. The high serpent was the patron. But then the patron gave up it’s spot to Fulgrim that is what he remembers. His thoughts were interrupted as he heard a cackle, he looked up ahead to see Erastus. He was standing with a tall woman wearing an inclosed golden helmet. She wore a fine dress, but what drew his eyes is the thick iron collar holding small glass cylinders filled with a pink concoction. The apothecary smiled “there you are.” “Excuse me my lord?” Erastus pointed at him. “Just a test, attack him Senshika.” he said curtly. Inferus blinked in surprise, it can’t be her. Her forearms are normal, but he could spot the same runes covering it.

Senshika chuckled “I get to fight him?” “Yes my dear, Resis has made you ready for this.” “I won’t let you down my lord.” He could hear the emotion in her voice which was odd. “W-what did you do!?” The apothecary shrugged “made her beautiful...perfect. A killing machine that kills gracefully. But she needs testing.” Senshika removed the large blade from her belt. Justus stood aside “How interesting…” Inferus eyes moved from the phoenix guard to Senshika. “What!? You are just going to stand aside!?” Justus nodded. “Well…Aye. Thou art going to loseth by the way.” At the mentioning of losing, he ground his teeth.

He pushed the cart aside. “I won’t lose to her. I have given up much more than she has.” Erastus held his grin. “How wise is it for you to say that? She put her life on the line, she placed her mind and body in my hands. Those arms are a failed creation. Flesh overpowers the manmade. I also can’t wait to see her psychic powers in effect.” Inferus frowned, he got into a battle stance. He activated his psychic blade and sent the grappling hook out it moved in the air like a snake.

He was about to take a breath but Senshika charged down the hall like a rampaging bull, Inferus used telekinesis to attack with the floating blade. His old companion swatted aside each attack without even looking at it. He cursed. “Let’s do something a little more smart…” He shifted the blade to attack from behind, Senshika twisted on one foot, turning back and blocked the point of the blade attempting to stab into her back.

As his eyes met her back they widened slightly. He saw a piece of metal fused to her back, he guessed that it’s attached to her spine. He could see more glass cylinders lining the metal in a straight line. “What...have you done to yourself?” That lapse caused Senshika to push the floating blade back, she flicked to him and charged at high speed. Inferus tutted “it does not matter now...” He decided to meet her in close combat.

As they came together their blades met. But his psychic blade was oddly grinding on her sword. It should melt right through it. Senshika started to laugh “This is so much fun isn’t it Inferus!?” He grunted at her words, her strength is insane. It’s taking all he has to keep himself from being pushed back. But he could tell Senshika is barely trying. “Like this...I can even beat Taurus. A shame he is dead…reduced to a mass of flesh and meat. Master would not even be able to gather materials from such a thing.” “Take that back…” Inferus hissed. “Why? He was impotent, flawed, imperfect and so...he fell. Are you trying to protect the memory of a failure?” An icy fury crawled through his body, in that moment he decided to kill her. He pushed on the psychic blade, keeping her attention on him. Then he bought the floating blade back to attack Senshika from behind again. Inferus needed to hold her attention. “Erastus knows nothing...Taurus gave you a place on the upper levels! He wanted to make you a soldier!” “He did not understand how to utilize me...I am more than a plain soldier...tell me how is that squad of yours going?” Inferus hissed at her “I following the programme Taurus set out for me...improving myself. Becoming a better soldier. “You still use that schedule?” She gave a small chuckle. All of the weight on his blade suddenly vanished, Senshika ducked and the blade that was speeding to her back crashed into his chest.

A gout of red hot blood began to fill his mouth, the lifeblood began to fall down his chest but it did not end there. With her smooth twist of her body she severed his legs from the thigh. Inferus could now feel himself falling back, a sharp pain thrummed down his legs. Senshika then rose in a quick motion and unleashed a shrill scream, the force from that attack sent his body flying down the hallway. Inferus crashed to the ground with a thud.

Blood began to pool onto the ground around him. He gagged he slowly reached for the blade lodged into his chest and he gripped it cutting deeply into his hand. At this current moment? All he could feel is frustration, she mocked Taurus’ memory. She needed to be punished. “I..n-need to get up...” All he could hear is the laughter of Erastus. Soon the laughter turned distant, it’s clear Senshika would not finish him. The apothecary just wanted to prove a point. As the laughter vanished he heard heavy steps approaching him and those footsteps belonged to none other than Justus. He loomed over him holding his legs in each hand. “I bought thy legs, I did tell thou that thou wast going to loseth. So betoken me….cook of the 4th what art thou going to doth now?” Inferus gripped the blade more tightly, he did not care for the pain. He narrowed his eyes at the phoenix guard, the blue embers of his eyes were moving slightly. He knew this was going to happen...he knows what I am going to say...who is he? Inferus frowned heavily. “My master will get this damn knowledge.” he said coldly.

Just going to say a video game that shall not be named caught me(new expansion). I thought about all of you waiting for a chapter so I stopped levelling and did one. Yay plot and character development that's sort of starting!

Chapter 24
Inferus was sat on the floor of his room, his chest and thighs still hurt but his master desired information. He desired power and he will give it to him despite his reservations. But to gather the knowledge Tetricus seeks he must delve deeper, when the king rose to power war was coming. None had time to record or speak of their works and the high serpent did intrigue him slightly. Inferus focused he set his spirit upwards to the warp, just like normal.

Once there, he looked at the turbulent waves of souls. He closed his eyes again and began to shape the warp energy around him. He wanted to live that moment, see his ancestors and perhaps glean information from the high serpent. Whenever he thinks of that creature he draws a blank, like there is a hole in his mind and maybe the angel of despair did not give him everything?

So he moved his hands in small rhythms, he could feel the tides shifting until the screams drained away and was replaced by the sound of insects and...an ocean. Waves crashing upon a shoreline.

Inferus opened his eyes and found himself on a coast. He could feel the sand under his feet and a soft breeze creasing his skin. He looked down to himself, to his shock he was wearing a tribal garb and his body was covered in purple warpaint. “This is...interesting.” he said cooly. He then looked around he spotted a large set of stairs heading upwards, but first...he turned and looked at the ocean. Seeing an ocean is a rare sight in this current day and age.

The sea glistened with a strange light and in the distance he saw giant shadows rising and falling. He guessed those are the sea serpents, “living” expressions of the dark prince. Inferus nodded “let’s get what I need.” He flicked towards the steps and headed upwards.

As he traveled he spotted people of different hues in skin tones but what caused him to raise his eyebrow is their bodies. They wore no warpaint instead they had strange thin scars that look self inflicted and they glowed slightly with a pink light. At times the energy bled off their bodies and the smell? The musk oddly pulled him in. Inferus approached a person, they took no notice of him since in the end this a conjuration of his knowledge. He stroked his chin and looked them over, the scars were not a simple case of self mortification since it was evident to him that they were shaped into designs. He inspected the other people standing around on the steps, some of the scarring looked like words belonging to the dark tongue, others had strange glyphs. But none of it looked disgusting the light it gave off was strangely pleasing to him.

Once satisfied he nodded “this must be the first piece of the puzzle.” He continued his journey upwards.

After almost an hour of climbing up the steps he was near the top and right away he could hear the screams. They were not normal, all of them were distorted in some fashion. He tried to think of what they could possibly be doing? But again nothing would come, he tried to search for some measure of understanding or knowledge but would not come to him. He furrowed his brow. “I should know this…I should know everything...” He hurried up the steps and he found himself in a grand plaza of a temple city. There were great gorgon statues, golden staues of daemonic monstrituies interwined with men and women, but what held his eyes is a great temple in the distance. But first he was drawn to the source of the screams. Floating in the air was several pillars, they had a large chain attached to it. Through the chain it was channeling currents of purple energy into the pillar causing the people impaled upon it to scream, not in agony but in ecstasy. Circling the pillars were sorcerers or in other words the priest caste, they were chanting and sending up a pink light to the people on the pillars, their wounds healed slowly just in time for a new current to grip the pillar.

Inferus strode up to one of the psykers, as he got close to them he could smell a foul odour. It was coming from the pillar above. It was the smell of cooked skin, blood and excrement. Strangely he almost gagged. In the past something like this would not bother him, he assumed it was Taurus training, he gave him focus. He does not find joy in such things anymore.

He quickly walked away, eager to get away from the smell. He looked around the plaza again. In the middle he saw young men and women, stripped of all clothing and they were kneeling heads down before a priest. Behind the priest he could see a small crowd of people.

Inferus found his eyes moving up and down the priest, he wore a gorgon like mask, pink feathers were attached to it and the scarring that lined their body was intricate, he could also see three iron spikes embedded on both shoulders through the skin. They also held a glowing knife and spoke in the dark tongue. “Brothers….sisters! We are here gathered to witness their coming of age! Know to cry in pain is to fail...pain is a joyous thing and the highest prayer we can give to the high serpent!” The priest stepped towards a man, he held his shoulder and on his back he carved a half circle. He then drew his blade away, blood dripped from the inflicted wound but Inferus could spot the wound was glowing slightly. The man’s lips were trembling, not in pain but pleasure.

The priest moved to each person carving the same symbol into each of their backs. Those who winced in pain were quickly taken away kicking and screaming in apology. Inferus chuckled slightly seeing this. “I can see why Justus feels bad about destroying this culture. I Imagine many in the third feel bad about it.” He decided to focus on the temple in distance. “I assume that is where the high serpent will be.” He walked onwards, looking around he wondered if he would feel something? Now seeing them fully, he knows the third legion will come, forcing all the clans to unite in order to defend what they hold dear but in the end it was for nothing.

He guessed that the dark prince wouldn’t care, he now has better and more deadlier servants in the form of astartes. Also he has a great prize in acquiring the lord of the third. Thinking such thoughts he wondered when did he become so jaded? When did it happen? Or is it a natural occurrence after all he has been through? No matter what he does...no matter how hard he tries he keeps losing things. He tries to reach higher but he gets smacked down again and again. Inferus frowned. “Yet I keep getting back up…should...I stop?” He sighed heavily and made the rest of the journey in silence, he did not think of anything he just focused on getting what his master wants. The high serpent will most likely have what he needs.

As he reached the great temple, he could see it was heavily guarded. People were barred but at the steps people were literally slicing themselves and calling out the high serpent, the patron of their clan. Those who got too hasty and decided to rush up the steps, the guards would shift, their scars will glow with a bright pink light and a gout of violet flame would erupt from their hands slowly burning those who seek to trespass. Inferus watched them die, he found one of the worst ways to die is by burning, it is a long and slow death. Especially in the case of his ancestors who were masochists, dying in such a way would be a blessing and he was right. The one who was burning was offering his thanks to the high serpent in rasped screams.

Inferus felt oddly detached, again in the past he would enjoy watching the man die slowly. In the end all he saw as a waste, something that could be used but due to the short sightedness of the tribesmen they think that whatever is in this temple cares. He gave a small chuckle and walked up the steps, the guards did not stop him for they are not actually there. They are just figments of his knowledge. Entering the grand temple, he could smell a heedy musk a lesser person would be entrapped by such a thing or perhaps that’s the point of it? The musk could stop possible attackers, turn them into willing followers instead of fighting them.

He doubts such a thing would stop astartes no matter if they are a traitor or a loyalist. Making his way through the temple, silk sheets covered the walls. He could also spot intricate art also covering some open spaces of the walls as well. He would spend time looking at it but he has an objective. He wanted to meet the high serpent.

He eventually arrived at a set of golden double doors. He pushed them open and and stepped inside and what he saw was a host of men and women bowing kneeling and praising a extremely large porcelain snake that sat on a large cushion to match it’s huge frame. It’s head darted around, it’s black tongue flicking in and out. But what he noticed is that a muscular man wearing makeshift golden armour stood at the side of the cushion watching those on the ground praise the giant snake. “High serpent the consorts have been replaced.” The snake actually smiled, it looked daemonic. The voice that left it was mixed between both genders. +Oh really? Are they all aware of what happens if they bore me?+ “They are.” +Let me see then…+ Inferus watched the high serpent’s head move to a young man. It held it’s grin and opened it’s maw unleashing a gust of pink mist onto the man. The snake then held it’s maw open, the young man rose grinning like a fool and to his shock ran straight into the mouth of the high serpent. It then closed its giant maw and swallowed. The snake rose upright again, he could see the bulge on his body he assumed that is the person it just devoured. The snake smiled as suddenly the temple erupted into screams and shouts, begging the high serpent to be next.

Watching all of this, all he could feel is disgust. All them bay and cry for a possible daemon to devour them rather than improving themselves. The serpent hissed +Silence!+ With that order everyone returned to their original positions. +Hmmm that’s better. That makes it 119 now isn’t that right my first consort?+ “Yes high serpent.” the muscular man said. +Make it 120 again. Perhaps I might reward you well if you I like the new one...+ the snake cooed with it’s unnatural voice. Inferus watched the first consort’s eyes widen, he almost ran out of the chamber eager to do the daemonic’s snakes bidding.

Inferus folded his arms “I don’t think I will get anything here. Just another daemon who is a mad hedonist…” He turned. +Is that what you think?+ Inferus froze, he slowly turned back. The serpent was looking right at him. “What?” The high serpent chuckled +you mortals are so funny...you think you know so much…+ The high serpent slithered off the cushion, it then curled into itself, remodeling it’s form into a humanoid shape.

The figure that was now before him was pale and androgynous, they wore red tribal clothing with a golden mask that covered the top half of their face. Their lower mouth was covered in bright violent warpaint along with their feet and left hand. On their right hand covering it’s fingers was golden jewelry shaped into sharp claws. The creature took a step forward, it’s consorts parting. Their long white hair which has been stylised into thick braids shifted with the movement. The daemonic snake gestured it’s hands out. +do you like what you see?+ Inferus frowned “I don’t care for your charm...daemon.” It tutted in annoyance. +Oh...you are one of those.+ It slowly walked approached it smiled showing a hint of pearly white teeth. +Do you want me to be more feminine? I can do that. That is your taste after all.+ “I-” Before he could answer the creature shifted slightly, their face turned a little more round and their body became somewhat more slender. +Better?+ “I don’t care. You can’t give me what I seek.” +Who told you that? I know...many secrets.+ At the mention of secrets he laughed. “So my ancestors was duped by a keeper of secrets!” The daemon smiled +yes I duped your ancestors into glutting my appetite and serving my every desire. In exchange for a little knowledge. The...others did the same, the hound is a much more simple patron he just gave the largest warrior the power to smash in the others head in. I am more...refined than that.+

Inferus folded his arms. “Refined?” +Oh yes, violence should be enjoyed. It should not be a quick thing to see another’s end. Have you tried stabbing someone right through the pelvis? Destroying bone and...slowly bringing your blade up?+ She smiled, Inferus shook his head. When did he consider the daemon a she? Her voice has not changed nor has her body changed much. He decided to get to the point. “My master desires to understand pain sorcery. I can see the people you duped held great power.” The daemon bought her long black tongue out and pressed upon it with a golden claw drawing black blood. She spoke without even her mouth mouthing. +Why should I give you such a thing?+ Her voice turned deep, low almost threatening. “What do you want in return?” Now it’s the time to bargain. She drew her tongue back into her mouth, it looked like she was savouring the blood as she moved her mouth. +I don’t care for what your master wants...I care…+ Suddenly she was behind him, she tapped her fingers onto his shoulders, almost drawing blood. She whispered into his ear. +For what you want…+ She twirled in front of him again. “You...can’t give me what I want.” +You want the love of others, the love denied to you your whole life. All these fragmented reasons of seeking perfection, indulging in vice is to please...others.+ “There is nothing wrong in seeking perfection daemon, you should know that.” +But that’s so boring.+ She tapped him on the nose with her finger, holding a mocking grin. +You...and me...we can make the galaxy burn. We can make it scream and die with despair clinging the throats of mortals.+

Inferus held his hand up. “I have been through that daemon, one of your kin had no interest in what I want.” +You speak of Meliva? She is boring as well, so is the exile you play for and the angel of despair who most likely has no interest in what you are doing now.+ “You call them boring? In the case of Meliva all she caused me is misery which should be your wine and meat.” +There is poor wine and meat, I prefer the more finer things.+ Inferus shook his head “Also tell me how can you see me? This is just a conjuration of my thoughts.” +You are still in the warp darling...can I can call you darling?” “No.” She smirked at his rebuttal, he guessed no matter what happens she will use such a moniker. +As I said we are in the warp, it’s timeless I am timeless do you think someone like you can control the tides? Perhaps this is not a conjuration? Maybe the warp is just reflecting what is going on in that head of yours? Or you are gazing at the remains of your ancestors? Their soulfires slowly being tormented and devoured?+ He understood her point, he folded his arms. With that movement she looked at his prosthetics +If you make a deal with me...you would not have to destroy yourself anymore.+ “These new arms are better.” +Oh I am sure Senshika believes such a thing also.+ she said mockingly. Inferus frowned heavily in return +Struck a nerve? But it’s true, how many times have you destroyed yourself for a false ideal?+ “What do you know!?” Inferus hissed. “You want me to be a rampaging lunatic without direction!? I have been down that road!” +No you haven’t, you were pretending remember? I know how you feel truly, also what’s wrong with just...letting go? Your master can still get his desire, to become a great company that is the envy of others. But do you know that the lord commander tore up his letter? Your master thought that he could throw his weight around but instead Eidolon is sending a greater warband to kill you.+ Inferus shook his head in disbelief “y-you are lying.” +I am not lying I could do something about it for you see I am an aged thing. Like wine, I have the power to do it.+

Her words caused his mind to crumble, he knows she is not lying. Daemons like to use the truth to manipulate someone, they use truth to get mortals to move how they want. Inferus needed to know what he is dealing with. “How old are you?” +I was made right after his birth, but in a sense I always existed. I tell you if you knew my true name your mind would implode or your body will hollow out, not able to contain who I am.+ He cursed so the daemon in front of him is powerful, but what of favour? “Are you of exalted status?” +What do you think darling?+ “So that’s a yes…” He grumbled in frustration, he is trapped but he could deliver a warning to his master. They could avoid whatever end is coming. +You won’t make it, the warp rift is going to open soon.+ Inferus ground his teeth. “What are the terms of this...agreement?” The daemon smiled. +I will give you the power and knowledge you seek, I will also deal with the warband coming to end you…+ “But in return?” +You bind your bloodline, successors and soul to me, all those that you kill will be an offering to me.” “So you will own my soul, so if I die…” +No, not exactly think of me like a family patron. Those who fall under your wing and your children will be part of this deal.+ “This is just a way for you to devour souls!” +It is but what is wrong with that? This deal is in your favour.+ “Why is it in my favour?” +Because I am bored, I think you will be amusing to hang around with and you will gain power. I am not a bad patron, I can be nice darling...+ she said softly.

Inferus creased his brow “I don’t have much choice do I?” +When do you ever have a choice? Now offer your hand.+ He did as she bade, but as his hand reached out he could detect a hint of disgust as the daemon looked at it. Even so she grasped it and right away a burning, stabbing like sensation gripped his body, it raged through it at alarming speed. He crumpled to his knees, the daemon was still holding his hand tightly, smiling with glee. Then she suddenly released her grip. His arm sagged down to his body, the burning sensation ebbed away. He looked up to her. “I-Is..that it?” She looked down and held his face. +No, but you may call me Cazira…now open your mouth.+ “Why shou-” From her mouth, in an instant she released release a gout of black liquid onto his face, it went into his nose mouth and eyes. It burned, the texture felt like blood. This went on for almost an age until she released his face, Inferus sagged to the ground.

He could barely breathe, he couldn’t see either. His body felt weak. +Sssh relax, I will make you feel better.+ Inferus saw flashes for the church, he tried to squirm away, to send his mind back to his body, but he couldn’t. +You didn’t make anything, you were drawn in my world darling. I just wish to teach you something, you need to be made fit for purpose..+ He felt himself being turned onto his back. What happened during those hours seemed like an eternity, almost an endless nightmare that put everything he had experienced to shame. His memory of the church was obliterated and sent to the darkness, the degradation he suffered in that hall will stay with him forever.

***
Tetricus raced to the bridge, the ship alarms were flaring for everyone to ready themselves for battle. Sagax has notified him that a warp rift is opening nearby. For a ship to appear suddenly it could only mean an enemy. As he got to the bridge he could see through the viewscreen that a portal was opening. He flicked towards the shipmaster. “How long until we can get out of here?” Sagax sighed “we won’t make it in time. The warp drives are still warming up.” he said calmly. Tetricus cursed the warp rift opened and a third legion battleship exited the wound in reality. Sagax looked at him “we are being hailed.” “Answer it.” In the middle of the bridge from the holo image processor an image of an astartes was produced. They wore a fur cloak and their face was covered in scars, he smiled showing a row of fangs. “Eidolon sends his regards witch…” the chaos lord spoke with venom lining his voice. Tetricus sighed “so he did not like my letter.” “No and why should he respond to a witch without rank? You are nothing and he gave me the glorious task of wiping the 4th from the face of the galaxy. You won’t win, we all know you are limping and I have a compan-” The image distorted, flickering away as another warp rift manifested.

It literally sucked the enemy ship into the warp, the halo image gave a shrill screeching of metal and the sounds of the laughter of daemons. Then there was nothing. Sagax turned off the ship alert. “Well that was anticlimactic.” “Yes and strange.” said Tetricus. “We were lucky, we would not be able to take on a company. Seems I have to pick a planet myself.” He shook his head and left the bridge, as he stepped out a strange sense of foreboding gripped him. What happened there was far too convenient.

***
Inferus staggered up from the ground, he groaned in pain. “C-curse...her…I s-spit upon her.” He used his table to help himself up. He slowly breathed in and then out slowly, the pain vanished and instead he was strangely invigorated. But he hated her, she drew him into a trap. “Damn you Cazira…” +Oh is that how you speak about me?+ The voice came from behind him, he turned slowly and saw her resting on his bed. “You...can’t be here. You are a daemon.” +I am not here, well not fully any how.+ She bought her finger and thumb together several times. +Just a tiny piece...it’s anchoring to your soul. I like to protect my investments.+ “Go...away. You don’t need to be here.” +I want to be here.+ She sat up slightly. +Don’t worry I can’t go too far, also I can affect objects around me like a spirit. Save you no one can see me so don’t worry your little head. Anyway I kept my end of the bargain.+ Inferus blinked and oddly he knew everything about what his master desired. “Right so I just offer up the souls of those I kill to you?” +That’s it. Oh by the way…+ Her voice turned low and harsh. +Don’t try and back out. It’s bad for your health. I really don’t want to tear you apart slowly at the start of...our relationship.+ Inferus nodded slowly “I understand.” Cazira’s voice returned to normal +I am glad you understand darling now don’t you have work to do?+

He rubbed his neck, he did have work to do. He has to transcribe everything he knows into books for his master to use. He sighed slightly and went over to his book shelf and pulled out a fresh book. He also grabbed a pen and sat down at the table. He started to write, recording everything he knows into the book. As he wrote the first few lines he felt a hand on his shoulder, he looked to his right to see Cazira floating in the air. “What are you doing?” +Hmm thinking on what I should do first.+ “You will stay here.” the fact that she could touch him made him question how much she could affect things around her. It would be too dangerous to let her do what she wants. +I don’t want to, you can’t order me around and if you aren’t going to entertain me…+ She drew close and whispered into his ear. +I will entertain myself…+ She then phased down into the ground. Vanishing completely.

He grunted in frustration no one can see her, plus she is only a small part of her true form. He hoped that nothing bad happens.

Longer chapter, I wanted to capture the creepy side of the minions of chaos. Hope I made it. :X

 shinros wrote:
Longer chapter, I wanted to capture the creepy side of the minions of chaos. Hope I made it. :X

Spoiler:

Also you should feel bad for anyone that crosses paths with Cazira.

Out of curiosity, how many marines were on that ship?

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:
Longer chapter, I wanted to capture the creepy side of the minions of chaos. Hope I made it. :X

Spoiler:

Also you should feel bad for anyone that crosses paths with Cazira.

Out of curiosity, how many marines were on that ship?

About a company worth. So over a hundred space marines. They would of died if they boarded. He was about to say it before the chaos Lord got sucked into a "random" warp rift.

Im not a fan of how strong senshika got so quickly. Now senshika is stronger than a chaos lord as old as the unification wars! Erastus must have access to some crazy tech.

Really like the direction of the story, definitely getting a "haunted house" feel. Interested to see where the story goes. One thing id like to mention is the setting of your universe is always better with more characters. Even if they play minor roles or are just a random mutated guardsmen it contributes to the overall atmosphere. As of now it kindof feel like its 4 people wandering around the ship, theres not even slaves to kick out of the way haha.

 Dayknight wrote:

Im not a fan of how strong senshika got so quickly. Now senshika is stronger than a chaos lord as old as the unification wars! Erastus must have access to some crazy tech.

Really like the direction of the story, definitely getting a "haunted house" feel. Interested to see where the story goes. One thing id like to mention is the setting of your universe is always better with more characters. Even if they play minor roles or are just a random mutated guardsmen it contributes to the overall atmosphere. As of now it kindof feel like its 4 people wandering around the ship, theres not even slaves to kick out of the way haha.

Thanks for the feedback. Oh yes Senshika is strong but at what cost? That's one of the themes of this story. Inferus sought to become better and it cost him his captain, Senshika became a corpus and the downside of that will be explored. Also the desire for more characters? More will be coming! Planning a new battle arc. It's going to have huge lasers, that's all I am going to say.

Chapter 25
He stepped onto the balcony of his palace, the wind creased his bald head. But everyone held eyes on him and him alone. The masses can only be within the grounds of his grand palace whenever he is making a speech. Since he brought the flaming angel sect to his world, he built it up and he carries a lot of power within their faith. The wider imperium think that it’s just another branch of the imperial creed, but it’s far more than that. He looked out to the golden statue in the distance, the living expression of their religion. It’s wings were spread out wide, it wore a robe and it’s face was that of a skull. In the past people knew him as scribe 542, but now he is William Regan, planetary governor of the planet Sithax and lord of the grand city of Lamisar prime.

Within the crowd he could see his rivals, none would dare to make an attempt on his life for he has divine protection from his angel. Fate is on his side.

William waved to the crowd and a great cascading cheer greeted his ears. But then he raised his other hand and the cheers ceased. He then tapped the microphone in front of him just to check it’s working. He then started to speak “Welcome, I wish to announce the imperium is pleased with another tithe. This could not have been done without your hard work…” He smiled warmly “I just wish to say that some of you may feel life is hard. But fate can change, before reaching to this station of power I was a man with nothing to my name. But I started a small business, it grew and eventually I became a noble. My business continued growing and my dedication to the flaming angel saw me made planetary governor. So I tell all of you, things won’t change unless you will it so. Today the speech was small but I want all of you to think about it. Good day.” He turned away, his blue cape swishing at the movement.

As he entered his home again he could hear the cheers erupting. He looked to his left, he saw his wife wearing a fine blue dress. In the past they argued over many things, but now they are of one mind. She is only here, alive and well due to the divine power of his angel. “When is he coming?” his wife asked. He walked over and placed his hand on her cheek. “You remember what my angel said my dear Jane?” She grasped his hand. “I know…but…” She tires of waiting, he can understand.

When he was bleeding out due to being caught in a gang crossfire the arbites simply loaded him unto a truck full of corpses despite his protest. At that moment he could only think of his wife Jane and his son. That is when his angel came to him, Gazivel.

As he thought his name, the blue multicoloured raven manifested and perched on his shoulder. Only those with truth faith can see him, his wife locked eyes with the small manifestation of his angel. “When is he coming?” The raven pecked it’s side. +As I told William, patience. He is coming to you soon. One of the requirements of the pact was to unite you and give you a paradise. I even threw in knowledge and power but what I wanted in return...+ “You wanted a society that praised the lord of fate, allowing you to guzzle on souls.” said William. +Exactly, but as I warned you before...your son will come with destroyers.+ “It’s no fault of his own, he was taken by hedonists. I will educate him and put him on the right path. I can even save him from the dark prince. I waited centuries for this, don’t forget our agreement this place should remain a paradise.” The raven looked at him and chuckled. +I will gave you all the tools needed to succeed….do not worry.+ The raven cawed.

William smiled at his wife “see? Everything will be fine.” Jane finally removed her hand and he removed his. “Alright, I will wait.” He was about to say something else, but from the darkness of the hallway his family death cult assassin strode out of the darkness and dropped to one knee. His black suit was almost skin tight, plates covered all vital areas and his helmet looked like a snarling tiger. “My khan…” he said with a thick chogorisian accent. “What is it Oktai?” “I have made the rounds, all of your enemies are dead.” “Good, now I want you out in the city gathering information.” Oktai said nothing. William smiled at the assassin “my son is coming home.” “You told me of him.” “I have, now his general description. He has dark skin like me, he looks he is in his early twenties and he has prosthetics. Due to the false ideas of following the wrong archangel he has destroyed himself completely. You should be able to recognised a wounded and misguided soul.” The assassin dipped his head. “It shall be done.” He rose and walked away. He turned back to his wife “See? Everything has been prepared. Now we need to seek out a wife for him.” at the mention of a wife, Jane’s worry evaporated. She was excited at the prospect of a wedding.

***
Erastus hummed as he looked into a microscope, he was pleased that the test has been a success. He knew his creation would succeed, examining the notes of the previous apothecary on this ship he played things too safely. If you worry about safety you will never get far or achieve perfection that is what he always thought. He then heard a weak knock on his door he looked up from the microscope and nodded. “Should be about that time..Come in!” The door slid open, he could hear soft footsteps along with gasps and finally the sound of someone crashing upon the floor. He turned from his work and looked upon Senshika. She looked scrawny, but that is expected.

Her head slowly came up, she reached out with her hand. “M-Master…I-I...feel so w-weak...I-I c-can’t f-feel a-anything…h-help...m-me...p-p-please...” she rasped. Erastus doubted she had the strength to even left her body, turning someone in a corpus they used up energy extremely quickly. If left alone their body begins to waste away.

Erastus strode over to her and knelt. “Hmm, never expected you to burn out so quickly. It’s only been three days. But this was within my calculations.” Her head sagged down onto the ground. Erastus lifted it up with his hand. He looked into the holes of her golden helmet and he can see a hint of her pink eyes. “Do not worry, as long as you stay by my side you won’t waste away.” He removed his hand allowing her head to fall to the ground again. He removed his needle gun from his belt and placed a cartridge into it. He then pressed the gun onto her arm and injected a solution.

Right away she seized up and began banging her head onto the floor again and again. She cried out in pain. “I-It h-hurts! M-Make it s-stop hurting!” He held her head again with both hands. She is one of his masterpieces until he gets tired of her and moves onto something better. He can’t allow her to injure herself.

Erastus smiled “What I gave you will reverse the wasting process, it will take some time until you are fully recovered. But try and endure the pain for now.” Senshika weeped within her helmet. Now she can understand sadness or possibly regret? But why would she regret anything? He gave her what she wanted, her heart desire. She should be praising him, praising his genius like Resis. But with all things there are deficiencies, he will iron them out in time.

***
Tetricus watched Inferus walk into his chamber holding a stack of books. He slammed them onto the table. “There, here is your knowledge master.” Tetricus picked one of the books off the pile. He flicked through it and the tome had everything he needed from philosophy, rites, curses and powerful sorcery.

He closed the book and placed it back down onto the table. He stared at his apprentice for a moment. Tetricus knew he should be happy but he could tell something was off. He could sense a presence around his apprentice, a powerful one at that. “Did you...do anything?” he asked. Inferus frowned heavily “Maybe.” He sighed and shook his head. “I made a deal with a daemon. It..did things so I am not exactly in the mood.” “Well that’s expected.” His answer caused his apprentice to raise his eyebrow. “What kind of answer was that?” “What answer did you expect? Daemons have done things to me and I had to do things to others in order to get power. So tell me the terms of your pact.” Inferus mumbled slightly. “I swore my bloodline and soul to her. But she does not own me exactly, in return she gave me knowledge and power. All she wants of me is that those I kill their souls will be offered up to her.” “Those are some kind terms, she must be bored.” “Bored!?” “Indeed, she is powerful I can tell. For a daemon of the dark prince to give you such a kind deal, she must be incredibly bored.” Inferus looked to his right suddenly, he scowled in annoyance. “Is an aspect of her talking to you? What did she say?” Inferus turned his head back to him. “She likes you. She is also regretting that she did not make a pact with you instead.”

Tetricus shifted his gaze to where his apprentice was looking. “Inferus is rough around the edges, but I hope you guide him well.” “Guide!?” “I mean it, this is an opportunity. Now enough about that I picked a world for us to attack.” He pointed up to the map and made a few movements with his other hand to display the planet Sithax. He gestured to zoom in, displaying the grand city. “This planet is called Sithax and the city is called Lamisar prime.” He could see his apprentice was in awe of the palaces, buildings and the golden statue. But then he narrowed his eye when he saw the marching soldiers. “They are well trained.” said Inferus. “Which is a rarity for PDF. But onto why I picked this world.” Tetricus rose from the table. “We need bodies, more people. The lower levels are becoming destitute again, the cult after Lucretius’ death has crumbled. So your role will be important Inferus.” “My role?” “Yes, for there are a great amount of noble houses on this planet. Nobles who seek power, workers who seek a better lot in life.” Inferus straightened. “I understand my lord. I will also gather information.” “Good, Sagax will land you outside the walls. From there you will infiltrate city and get to work. I will leave it up to you how to proceed. We will contact each other through the warp.”

Inferus nodded “yes my lord.” Tetricus gave a weak smile. He could see how serious he was about this. “Inferus...try to enjoy yourself a little. Relax.” He shook his head. “I can’t, the warband is limping so I have to succeed. Don’t worry my lord I won’t fail, I will go and get ready.” He turned and left his chamber the presence vanished with him. Tetricus sighed slightly. “Look who is not following his own advice...you are not him...” he whispered to himself.

*Rubs hands together*

I am going to enjoy writing this small arc.

Uh oh, i wonder who the son is haha. I always hesitate to give critical feedback because i dont want you to stop writing this epic saga.

 Dayknight wrote:

Uh oh, i wonder who the son is haha. I always hesitate to give critical feedback because i dont want you to stop writing this epic saga.

Two chapters are coming soon. I am not sure if you remember but it's something from the very first story.

Edit:Also I don't mind feedback, since I am sort of writing this for you guys as well. I want all of you to enjoy the story lol. If you did not voice your complaint about the knight throw, I would not have a gauge on how far I could push things.

Chapter 26
William sat at his study, preparing the ritual that will save his son writing down notes and letters to the attendees who are going to do the ritual with him. Gazivel was perched on his shoulder watching him work diligently. +Clever, this is essentially a trade.+ “Thank you, relieving someone of a mark is not easy. Still I can’t believe the things you tell me sometimes about my son.” +It is the truth.+ “I know...but I wish that wasn’t the case sometimes. He has been enslaved by children shaped into weapons. Very few of them are wise, all they know is war and conquest.” +That is their function and they serve it well.+ “True but that is what they will ever be hence why they should not be leaders.” He never understood the reverence when it comes to astartes. They are weapons, weapons that are pointed at problems.

The traitor legions are those who essentially got off the leash but they never changed. They can be nothing more than a killing machine when following the archangels should give one enlightenment. In his mind the lord of fate is the highest of all since he desires to push other avenues than war. War to him is just a necessity.

His angel then cawed and flapped his wings slightly. +He is here.+ William smiled to himself. “Good, I am sure Oktai will bring him to me. Then I can give him what he always wanted….” He couldn’t wait, all the pieces are lining up in place.

***
Inferus walked the streets, he made sure to use a minor power to cause people to see his arms as cybernetics. He looked around and examined the people, all of them seem happy. The priests who wore halo’s that burned with fire were also respected. Despite the grand city there was still beggars, he could start there but he would not get much use out of them. “I should approach the working class...see what problems they have with this city..” Cazira wrapped her arms around his neck as She floated behind him. He did not react, it would be strange to get angry in the middle of public. +Or...you can teach them value of doing what they want, whenever they want. Degrade all the rules until the city is awash with blood and ecstasy.+ He frowned at that idea, they would get revealed far too quickly doing such a thing.

The daemon had no idea how to take things slowly. She prefers to act rather than think. Taurus taught him better than that. Cazira scoffed +fine...be boring. I am patient.+ He did not know what she is expecting of him. He did not understand what his master meant by “guide” either. He continued walking until he hear a sound. It was music, Cazira was getting excited. +Look! Look!+ She pointed at a old homeless man sitting on a piece of cardboard on the side of the pavement playing a strange instrument.

Inferus walked down the road and stood in front of him. He was surprised that anyone had such musical talent on this planet. Perhaps he spent his whole life playing and some unfortunate event landed him in such a state. The homeless man grinned, looking at his skin tone, blade and grey beard he looked like someone from chogoris or at least from that system. “Greetings...very few stop to watch me play.” “You can play quite well old man. How did someone like you end up homeless with such talent?” “Oh...well that is a long story.” His dark eyes met his gaze. “What of you? I can sense some history around you.” “I am just a visitor, a traveller who wanted to look at this grand city.” The old man nodded. “Quite a beauty eh? The planetary governor worked hard to make it so. He dreamed of finding his lost son, to create paradise for this family.” He knew dreams get crushed easily, they always do. You always want the best outcome but it’s never the case. “Dreams...always remain dreams.” The homeless man smirked. “Aye, the galaxy is grim and with the great scar war is constant.” The old man stopped playing and stood up he placed the bow to one side on the wall. He smiled. “Sometimes...I miss war. Slicing the throats of heretics, laughing while killing….breaking necks. Being shot at...having a knife lodged in one’s body..embracing the pain and pushing beyond it.” Cazira licked her lips. +I like this one…+ Inferus chuckled. “Never knew you were so bloodthirsty old man.”

The homeless man chuckled “ah..but those were the days. Far too old for such things..but I assume you know about pain and war?” “Excuse me?” “You just have that look about you…” He pointed to his own eye. “That single eye...knows war. But I sense you derive no joy from it. Which is a shame.” His words caused him to narrow his eye. He wondered if he should kill him? But killing someone so early into his mission might give him away. Or should he recruit the old man? “I...might know people who have use for someone like you.” “Oh? You do?” “Yes how about we talk in a all-” But before he could finish his sentence, he barely saw the movement. The old man quickly removed the head of his instrument revealing he blade, he then stabbed him in the chest, blood erupted from his mouth.

Cazira released her grip, floating back slightly, smiling ear to ear. Inferus cursed, but then he fell to his knees. He could not move his body. The daemon gave a shrill laugh +how interesting! I knew he was lying…+ Why didn’t you warn me!? He raged within his mind. The daemon shrugged like she heard his thoughts. +I thought this will be more interesting, he is not looking to kill you. He could of done so anytime. Look around no one is helping you.+ She was right, everyone was just about their business like nothing is going on. The old man removed the blade from his chest, Inferus fell to the ground. His body was paralyzed.

For some reason his biomancy could not eliminate the agent that is gripping his body. The old man cleaned his blade, his gaze turned stony. In his eyes Inferus saw a killer, one who lived and breathed murder, pain and war. “Apologies my young lord, endure this for now. My Khan prepared for this moment and he is eager to meet you.” He then slotted the blade into his instrument. He gestured it to him. “This is called a Morin Khuur, if you did not know. Perhaps you will hear me play it again at some point?” His eyes now started to feel heavy, his body felt weak. He gasped just once, before his eyes slowly closed.

***

Tetricus began working through the tomes, There are diagrams that detail how to commit the ritual scars to one’s body. he thought to get started right away but decided not to. For he realised quite quickly that the scars themselves don’t give power, but the pain that is committed upon one’s body is the source of said power. Essentially, it’s through pain and the ecstasy derived from it which allows one’s mind to open. They call the state Yolteotl, through pain the mind because honed, balanced and that is when you can truly access the sphere of slaanesh.

Tetricus moved his finger down the page. “Violence, some mistake it to be the sphere of khorne only...but it’s in violence where pain is pure. When you give all into inflicting pain and receiving it. That is when your mind dissociate’s with your body, then the dark prince will sing to both…” Suddenly he thought of Justus and what he did when he charged the trench. What he said during that time and how he acted, the joy he derived from what was happening. “There is no way….” He frowned, “it can’t be possible...Justus could not be enlightened...” He barely thought about what he was doing, his brother is also quite simple.

But then something clicked. “Maybe people think about it too much? Pain should be the only answer. That is what you should be concerned about, if one receives and gives pain to excessive levels...then comes enlightenment.” Do not think...act and commit. He thought to himself.

He thought that Inferus ancestors would not understand much, but he was wrong. It will take time before he starts the ritual self mortification, but he is patient. He wants to get it right, he has no desire to destroy his body and gain nothing in return.

Tetricus closed the tome, his mind then moved to his apprentice. “I wonder how Inferus is doing?”

***
William looked down to his boy, his eyes are closed. Looking at his arms just causes his heart to twist in sadness, he could not believe what is angel told him. One of the asartes coerced him into destroying them. He sighed slightly, he hoped to get this ritual done quickly at the moment his boy is chained down to the ground, his back facing the ceiling. William looked around the ritual room, nine candles has been set around his son. Nine powerful political rivals are also standing in a wide circle around him. They are in the process of chanting the words of the ritual, sacrifices were normal so none of them thought anything of it. Nor did they know that the one on the ground is his son. At most, all they know is that he worships the wrong archangel and sacrificing those of an enemy god brings great favour.

But he desires a different outcome and with this he would be killing two birds with one stone. As the chanting reached a crescendo the air changed. His son’s eyes opened, he struggled on the ground. “Who are you!?” he shouted. At most all he see’s are figures wearing blue robes. He wanted to say something, but held back. His son has endure this.

The chanting kept going, then a burst of blue flame enveloped his son’s back, he screamed in agony. He writhed in the chains trying to free himself. At the moment what he is feeling is his connection to his archangel being severed, but he knows the serpent is quite greedy and dislikes relinquishing those that he has his claws on. So he arranged a trade.

His political rivals were then suddenly consumed by pink fire, they all fell onto the ground rolling frantically. They screamed, they cursed him, some even asked what he has done. William simply watched the process take hold with clear detachment. His only concern is his son. His compatriots slowly burned until only ashes remained. Once they were gone, the blue flames covering the back of his son ebbed away leaving clear skin. The mark is gone, he has given him freedom.

His son’s eyes slowly closed, the pain was too much for him. The fact he did not enjoy the pain from the ritual shows that he might not be entirely lost. He was about to walk until his angel manifested he cawed and landed on his shoulder. +Something is wrong…+ “What?” The raven’s head moved around the room frantically like he was searching for something. +Be careful, I suspect someone is watching us.+ “Who? Who is watching us?” The raven said nothing further, he left his shoulder and dissipated in the air.

William frowned heavily, he could not afford spies that he is not aware of. He sighed and walked over to his son. He knelt and removed a raven choker from his robe and placed it around his neck, he is happy that his sight is open but he must take precautions. As the choker clicked into place the blue gem that is held in the mouth of the raven gave off a soft glow. William’s eyes moved to his arms. The runes that covered it was also troubling. “I will have him remove them. We can study it, I will give him proper arms in time.” He rose and faced the door, he clapped several times. The door of the ritual room opened to reveal his wife and his servants. His servants got to work clearing away the ash of his political rivals. They also undid the bindings on his son and took him away.

His wife watched their boy being dragged away. She wanted to touch him bought her hand edged back to her body. “Did the flames purify him?” “It did, come here.” Jane walked over, she looked into her eyes and he could read what she wanted to say. “You think he will hate us.” She bit her lip just slightly. “Jane...he will for a time. I have seen it within the flames.” “When we will stop hating us?” William placed his hand on her shoulder to reassure his wife. “You will smother his hatred, be there when he wakes.” He removed his hand, Jane nodded alright. “I will be there.” she turned and left the chamber.

Now alone he needed to prepare the city for an attack, the tides of fate have shown him that he has time before the hedonists move and he will use it wisely.