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Chapter 3

Entry 10888

I was sitting in the usual spot checking my guns and equipment. Considering how many I had it took a few hours to complete maintenance. I normally take equipment according to what I am doing at the time or who I am planning to kill. For Astartes I normally take my crossbow it took several months to make and gather the parts.

The crossbow bolts could easily pierce ceramite armour. Oddly enough Meliva enjoyed the weapon as well. Perhaps it's due to the fact I created bolts that explode on impact. I filled the tips with small wire so when the bolt explodes the wire then slashes whatever it enters due to the force of the explosion. When it comes to Astartes I normally aim for the head so the wire slices apart the brain perhaps killing them instantly or making them easier to kill.
The weapon itself is quite large but sharing your body with a neverborn has certain benefits in strength, regeneration, awareness and "other" abilities. As always my friend sat next to me. He is impressed with how diligent I am in maintaining my weapons. At that time I coutined cleaning my weapons in silence.

This time I asked the question I asked him whether he found the means to fix his problems. He looked at me he told me that this is also my problem as well. I stopped the maintance and looked directly at him. I obviously asked him why. He narrowed his eyes at me as he said "You will fall into degeneracy like all the rest." I was not exactly upset when he said that but I was not pleased either. I pointed out that it could happen to him. I pointed out that I have seen him shifting, gazing at the slaves we capture. Yet he does not partake.
My friend retorted that I did the same thing(I do no such thing I have no such interest since the events of the church. Doing things like that is... mundane and shallow to me now). I pointed out that I am not like everyone else. What I need to do required focus and I had more important matters to attend to than tormenting slaves.

My friend pressed the matter further asking "How do I retain focus? How do I slake the need?" To be honest when he asked me that I never thought about it. I was silent for a moment without giving an answer my friend sighed heavily. He moved back to our topic on the gods he asked me another question "How do the gods gain power?" I twirled a bolt as I answered there was one thing Ivan was right about all the gods feed on suffering and death it's like a prayer to them. My friend stroked his chin in understanding and simply got up and left me to my maitinance. I wondered at that time what answer my friend would find?

Adelram was escorted to another part of the city in a rhino he was surrounded by Astartes in the vehicle. Adelram wanted to use his powers if so he could possibly escape somehow. Yet the psy-jammer prevented him from doing anything.
If he reached for the Jewel they would move their hands to their guns. Adelram was sitting across from another Astartes with small horns and proclean skin with a pink hue. He gave a mocking smile "Our old useless lord. I wonder why Sebastian simply does not kill you?" Adelram wanted to speak but all that would come out would be muffles.

The Astartes continued "We did not follow you. We followed Jedrick and now Sebastian. You believed that your powers meant you could control us." The Astartes leaned forward slightly "Your powers are nothing compared to what I have seen. Even the nurgle sorcerers I have seen human and Astartes are more powerful than you." Adelram wanted to shut him up. To prove that he was not weak.

The Astartes mocking him then leaned back into his seat. The drive lasted several minutes, the rhino came to a stop. Adelram was escorted out of the vehicle. Adelram could tell even in the war torn city that this was a poorer part. He did not even need to have his psychic powers to tell that this place is influenced by Nurgle.

His escorts turned him around. The Astartes mocking him walked forward he smiled "I should at least tell you my name. Since I will be shaming you right now." He gave a slight bow "I am Gethus. Now..." Adelram watched Gethus grip his robe and tear it away. He threw it to the ground and spat on it.

Gethus gestured to one of the Astartes "Get the maces." Adelram watched the Astartes head to a conpartment of the Rhino pulling out more deactivated power maces. The Astartes began handing it out to the Astartes present he handed the last one to Gethus.
Gethus tapped the mace in his hands. "Now we will break your legs. Can't let you run now could we?" The Astartes began circling him. Adelram took several breaths. Gethus along with his squad moved in and began striking the legs.
Adelram fell to the ground even then they did not stop. The pain, the agony. Adelram swore he would not scream he would not give them the satisfaction of his voice. They kept striking his legs for several seconds.

Adelram began seeing black dots. He was slipping out of conciouness he grit his teeth. Gethus began laughing "Why are you not screaming our useless lord?" Gethus leveled his mace and activated it. He smashed down on his leg shattering the ceramite and bone. Finally Adelram screamed. Gethus laughed "There it is!"

Gethus did it again to his other leg. Adelram could not even scream this time the black dots were increasing. Gethus stepped over him still holding his mocking smile "We are leaving now. Give our regards to our diseased cousins."
Adelram watched Gethus leave his vision. He then heard the Rhino driving away. Adelram tried to move he could not feel his legs. If he tried agony would grip him. He lay on the ground looking up. The black dots were still in his vision he tried to focus yet he could not.
Adelram swore as he thought that he can't die here. He wondered why is this happening? What did he do to end up in this position? He lay motionless on the ground he is favoured. He knows this he has slaanesh's mark and stormed a fortress wall by himself. He was bought back to life afterwards. Adelram kept repeating that same mantra within his mind yet a strange emotion kept crawling into his chest. Doubt. That emotion that gave him dread doubt. He began doubting all the decisions he made in the past. Wondering where he went wrong what did he do wrong.
He wanted something so simple. Yet no matter how hard he tried it never came even after he won the "Prize." Adelram kept thinking about this and soon his doubt turned to regret. That disgusting notion that felt like a stain in his mind and hearts regret.

Adelram's gut soon felt empty the sensation only increased. He felt like a part of him was dying bleeding away. The brand on his arm the mark of slaanesh he felt it vanishing, removing it itself from his skin. Adelram cried out loud "No! Please!" inches by inches he could feel his mark on his arm being picked away slowly. It was not ripped away it was like the dark prince wanted him to know he failed somehow.
Finally after a few agnozing minutes he felt it. He felt like a part of him was now missing Adelram felt his lips trembling. In instinct he looked up to the warp scar in the sky.

Adelram shouted "Father! Please! Let me see you! Just this once! Please I beg you!"

He was shouting to nothing. A deep despair gripped him he was afraid fear paraylzed him. He did not know how to react he was actually terrified. He began thrashing on the ground like a child trying to move even if he felt pain trying to move his legs slightly. Adelram began to hear chanting the same gurgling prayer at the plaza by the cultists he froze in an instant. Out of the streets and roads came walking nurgle cultists. A Astartes in green armour holding a wooden staff was leading them. He wore a purple hood that obscured his face his belly almost bursting out of his power armour.
There were two more Astartes at his right and left both had swollen bellies. The one on the right had a long vile tentacle coming out of the mouth piece of his helmet. The Astartes on the left wore a hood with two antlers sticking out of it his face obscured by a chainmetal veil.
The cultists surrounded Adelram. The Astartes holding the wooden staff walked over to him smiling with rotten teeth. He sounded hoarse as he spoke "Child of despair we have come." Adelram tried to shout "No! Go away!" Adelram began to try to crawl away. The horned Astartes stopped him and turned him over to his belly. He placed his foot on his chest to keep him from moving.

The staff wielding Astartes coughed "Now, now. We are here to help you. Introductions are in order. I am Biberlus Rotfoot." He gestured to the Astartes with the antlers "This is Pus." Pus nodded. Bibilus gestured to the other Astartes with the tentacle flailing out of his mouth piece "This is Boil." Boil pounded his chest with his hand.

Biberlus walked around Adelram smiling with flaked lips "We are of the Death guard. Grandfather whispered to us that there will be a child longing for a family here." Adelram shook his head "Never! I will never join you!" Biberlus laughed for some reason able to understand the low sounding muffle he placed his hand to his trying to hear "Oh. You won't join us? How about we talk about this further?" Biberlus clapped his hands Adelram began hearing the buzzing of flies. Bibilus chant continued the sound of flies intesified.
Adelram was shocked how did he do that in proxmity to the psy-jammer? Or perhaps he was strong enough to overpower it? From the buildings came thousands of flies. All the nurglites raised their hands in prayer even Pus and Boil.
Adelram watched the flies descend upon him he screamed.

Adelram felt lost and purposeless. He walked in the darkness he saw his Primarch walking ahead of him. Adelram ran he tried to reach him but he kept walking further and further away. Adelram tried to shout "Please wait! Father please! Please look at me! Please!" Adelram soon stopped.
He saw his captain walking past him, Adelram chased him yet he could not catch up he could see his captain walking beside his primarch. Adelram tried to sprint he could not catch up. Soon afterwards seveal prominant captains of the third and the lord commanders walked past him reaching his Primarch. Even Fabius.

Adelram held his head and dropped to his knees and finally he saw sebastian walking past him. He looked at him his face the same mocking grin the dark prince shaped his face with. He watched them leave in the darkness. He was alone. Utterly alone.
He said to himself "It would never happen. It won't happen ever." Adelram began sinking into the darkness he continued "I can never reach him. He will never look at me." Adelram sank even further the darkness reaching his lips "I gi-". Adelram soon felt the darkness completely consuming him the sentence dying on his lips he felt his thoughts drifting as he said "I should give up."

There is a lesson here everyone should embrace nurgle they would be much more happy.

And pictures got around to painting some my warband. Also apologies for picture quality, I also tend to base after everything is done. I may retake the pictures again down at my local store due to better lighting and all that.

Some Astartes(Sebastian should be done soon TM) Also pink is a pain to paint. Getting used to it though.

Nice. Well I mean nurgle is always the nice one. No pain, and a god that cares. Ain't that great?

lliu wrote:
Nice. Well I mean nurgle is always the nice one. No pain, and a god that cares. Ain't that great?

Indeed! If Ivan chose nurgle he would still be alive leading a nurgle warband and eventually hooking up with the deathguard. Slaanesh wants you to enjoy and revel in your excess but in the end the dark prince just finds all of it amusing in the end.

Intermission chapter 1

Entry 10901

This entry is going to be rather long it's more the fact that my friend returned to the compound frustrated and covered in blood a great deal happened that day. At that time I was going over my weapon movements. He approached me drenched in blood he pointed at me accusingly as he said "I don't feel any better! I thought they fed on death and suffering!?" I stopped my practice and looked at him I asked who did he kill? He sighed as the frustration drained from his face and it returned to the dour look I known him for.

He was creasing his brow he told me that he killed the nurgle cultists around the city. He then asked did I feel anything when killing them. I gave it a thought, I then told him I felt nothing when I killed them it was like taking out the trash. I don't think really think about it you just do it. I did raise the point when I started killing there was a rush a sense of euphoria. The more I did it, the better I got at it. Soon after that I felt nothing. As I spoke I could see he was listening intently. I continued my explanation that I soon moved to gang warfare there was a certain rush about it. I needed to understand the lay of the city and the powers in it at the time so I fell in with one of the gangs.

I became one of their top hit men. I kept killing again and again eventually I moved to killing the famous crime lords in the city. Meliva was simply enjoying the show by that time we came to a strange agreement. She knew that we were stuck together whether by the dark prince's designs or not and through me she could also enjoy reality. She gave me strength I gave her the means to experience reality.

My friend frowned slightly he asked me to go back to me killing the crime lords. I did tell him afterwards it was such a long time ago that I don't remember the exact details but I told him what I could. I aimed to kill the crime lords and soon their hit men went after me. Fighting the hit men was quite exciting I told him. I hoped I was not smiling with glee when I was explaining but perhaps I did? I made mention that those memories I found fond two people doing all they can to kill one another. I learned much of skills that I use even now.

One I hanged, the second I broke several of their bones and the third? I killed with my journal pen. They hoped to ambush me in the bar. Meliva was quite excited and impressed when I killed the hit man with the pen. As I mentioned the pen I could see my friend was in disbelief he asked me did I seriously murder someone with a pen. I told him I did.

That was the first time I saw him in utter surprise it was odd seeing him making such a face. I continued my story I told him after I killed the hit men I moved to the crime lords. I killed their guards. I killed their family and finally I killed them. Infiltrating their mansions was almost akin to a military garrison.I told him it was amazing I detailed all the defences the hired guards made up of top gangsters, veteran guardsmen who went awol etc. I eventually reached the crime lords they prepared for me that did not help them. My friend then said to me "After you secured the rule for the gang what did you do?" I looked at him I told him that I moved to kill the people who hired me I began murdering the gang I joined. My friend raised his eyebrow but I told him that I did it only after they secured their rule and their position was sustained.

That surprised him even more. I told him I wanted to learn about the city hence why I joined but my chief mission and excess is to be more useful to our lord who is now missing. What better way to become a more effective tool is to pit myself against a gang who controlled everything? So I began my work crime plummeted. I told my friend that It was refreshing and exciting dismantling them many of my contacts did not understand what I was doing before I killed them.

Piece by piece. Life by life. My actions caused crime to plummet. I told my friend that the commoners and downtrodden called me an angel. They could walk the streets at night. People were no longer kidnapped. People were no longer caught in gang crossfires. The narcotics trade shot down dramtically. The arbites were in a state of confusion on why it was happening. My friend asked again what was the point of me telling him this part I just told him it was important and to listen.

When I reached the crime lord(my old boss) after killing his guards he was not angry but afraid. I handed him the head of his wife he did not even take it. I then killed him with my blade. Yet I felt nothing. I did not feel that same sensation of excitement and wonder like when I was dismantling their empire killing their hit men and my old contacts. I felt nothing. Still after I killed him oddly I grew black wings. I questioned Meliva she said she had nothing to do with it.

I ended my story telling him that after that I moved to Assassination murdering various nobles testing defences and the high ranking abrites of the city. I told him I even killed inquisitors sent to investigate this "angel" eventually earning a case file. I gleaned this information from an inquisitor I tortured. I learned a great deal of what was happening in the galaxy at that time. Eventually they also sent assassins along with the inquisitors investigating me. Fighting assassins was unbelievable I told him two people shaped into weapons attacking each other.

I ended on the note saying that I could torment the enemy cultists or slaves yet I know full well that it would be fleeting or I will feel nothing. I will also not gain or learn anything from killing a slave.

As I finished my explanation I could see in that moment that my friend gained a deep understanding or an idea.

Chapter 4


Entry 10910

After a few days my friend returned. I was sitting in our usual place he sat down next to me. When I looked at his face I saw understanding instead of frustration. He started the converstion he said "I feel better now." I was happy for him but I wanted to know what caused it.
He told me that what I did in the past in his eyes is the proper worship of slaanesh. He continued explaining that to achieve our desire we want we need better soldiers. They are being allowed to gratify themselves on small and pitiful excess blunting them. That's why in the past the warband could not take bigger worlds or take on the true armies of the imperium in full force. That's why many warbands in the third are broken save the truly favoured.

I pointed out that if he started preaching such a thing we would end up with more dead men. He retorted that we would have better men. He said I am an example of that. I was slightly annoyed I made another point that I have the advantage of being possessed. Implementing this practice might ruin everything I have been working on for our lord.

My friend retorted again that why can't they move to the pinnacle of what is human then? Inquisitors and assassins have killed possessed or even Astartes. In me pursuing them I adapted I became more efficient. I was a blunted objected who shaped myself into a sharp blade. Through pursuing my excess I achieved my true "shape". When he said that I had nothing else to say.

My friend told me he vanished for a few days because he was hunting the traitors and the death guard Astartes. He almost died several times but he got better at fighting them. He grew he felt alive. He felt he could do more. That his goal was getting closer in sight.
When he said that it upset me. I could not lose him. Not after being alone for all those years hoping and waiting for when they would appear. He calmed me saying that it was necessary if we are to survive he has to be stronger.

He left stating he will start spreading what he learned to our soldiers. I was unsure at the time but now? His new "cult?" helped me in setting the ground work for my lord.

Adelram opened his eyes he looked up there was a large fountain ahead of him. It was quite a distance away to reach. The Death Guard Astartes known as Pus and Boil were holding him due to his legs being a ruined mess. Around him were chanting cultists. The chant died as Biberlus approached the fountain.

He held up his hands praying soon out of the fonts of the fountain black liquid pooled. The liquid bubbled and green vapour rose from the fountain. Biberlus turned to him and walked towards him and knelt down. Biberlus smiled showing his stained teeth "Child of despair are you ready?" Adelram shook his head he said "I d-don't know." Biberlus smiled "You should accept the fact that your father hates you." Adelram looked up confused "How? How did you know?"

Biberlus stroked his chin "The flies whisper much of your despair Adelram." Adelram's mouth felt dry there was a pit in both hearts. He knew it to be true, Adelram said "Yes he does. Yet why has he not looked at me? I have done so much yet...." Biberlus nodded in understanding "Some parents are just bad fathers. Even some gods mishandle their children. Slaanesh is a common offender" Adelram narrowed his eyes "What did I do wrong?" Biberlus shook his head "You did nothing wrong. Our Primarch Mortarion knows of having a bad father hence he treats us as his sons he reprimands us when we do something wrong yet he cares for as at the same time even if some hate him like Typhus."

Biberlus smiled again his lips flaking "Have you ever had a primarch's eyes on you? A primarch speaking to you?" Adelram looked at Biberlus "No I haven't." Biberlus stood up and gestured to the fountain "That can change oh child of despair. Be baptised in the blessed waters of nurgle. Accept your despair and admit your father hates you. Accept that your father has abused you. Accept a new father that would accept and see you. Find a god that will truly treat you as their child."

Biberlus nodded to Pus and Boil. They dropped Adelram, he thudded on the ground. Biberlus gestured to the pool "Crawl Child of despair. Go accept it!" Adelram began crawling to the fountain he smiled under his helmet he began thinking that things would be easier if he just gave up. He was never interested in him. No matter how hard he tried or how well he did he never said anything.

It felt right. He crawled slowly to the fountain. Accepting that he had no interest in him made him happy. The despair weighed on his heart but it should weigh on you. Since it's the truth. The torments he put himself through for the father who hated him. Soon he will have a father that would talk to him. He would have a god that would comfort him in his despair.

Adelram felt a large grin lining his features. He was slowly reaching the edge of the fountain Biberlus called out "Come on! Show everyone! Show your father what it means to abuse their child!" Adelram nodded he can do this. He must.

He kept crawling. He then heard a sound a gun shot. He shifted to the right and saw a cultist with a bullet hole on their forehead they collapsed. Several more shots went off and more cultists dropped to the floor. Pus and Boil readied their weapons. Pus drew a plague sword and bolt pistol. Boil drew a bolter.

Biberlus was shaking in anger he shouted "Cowards! Weaklings! You attack the grandfather's children from the shadows!" As Biberlus said this from a nearby building an Astartes jumped down he pointed his axe at Biberlus he shouted "I am no coward!" The voice was familiar to Adelram his mind drifted back to the baptism. He looked to the pool he continued crawling slowly to it.

Adelram heard the shouts of cultists and the hewing of meat. Adelram soon caught the sound of a jetpack as it crashed down into the cultists another familiar voice "Jedrick that's another ambush you are ruining." Adelram stopped he thought of the name Jedrick so familiar yet.. This was more important. He can't let himself get distracted. he continued crawling soon Adelram heard Jedrick responding "Silas he called me a coward. I could not take that. Think of it this way with an ambush they have no idea who killed them most of the time. Fighting them directly? They know exactly who killed them so as they die they know who is superior."

Adelram stopped again hearing the name Silas hearing both of their voices was distracting. He needed a new father and a god that cared he can't let them stop him. He caught the sound of Silas responding to his argument with the sound of more dying cultists "That actually makes some sense."

Adelram was almost to the pool he could hear Biberlus shouting "That's it Adelram! You are almost there!" Adelram grinned again he was almost there soon the pain will go away. He will accept it. Another voice pierced Adelram's mind they uttered a single word their voice was firm and it cut through the noise of dying cultists "No." He charged through the line of cultists straight to the death guard.

Adelram finally stopped he turned slightly he saw an Astartes wearing a black cape. His face was slightly obscured by a black hood. His armour was black and pink. A large spiked censer hanged from his waist his weapon was a spiked censer bellowing a purple mist. The censer was on a long two handed shaft. The hooded Astartes approached Pus at blinding speed he readied his weapon, Pus swung his weapon sideways. The hooded Astartes ducked swiftly he was still moving in with a swift motion he twisted.

Adelram watched as the spiked censer moved his eyes could barely keep up it howled like one of the neverborn and soon afterwards there was a song as it moved through the air and when it made contact with Pus the right side of his power armour caved in due to the impact. Adelram could see as the weapon moved the hooded Astartes speed increased. As the weapon hit Pus there was also a small musical note playing or a chime. The hooded Astartes quickly rose and twisted the censer it roared and sang again as it moved bringing the weapon to the head of Pus cracking his antlers and smashing his face in. Another song note played.

Boil readied his bolter he fired three times. To Adelram's shock the hooded Astartes like lightning dodged all three shots. The hooded Astartes charged Boil to Adelram his speed was Abnormal. Boil kept firing and the hooded Astartes moved right to left he then swung his weapon again it roared and soon it began singing. The song was reaching a crescendo as the weapon cracked into the Arm of Boil another note playing as Boil's arm was reduced to nothing.

Again the hooded Astartes twisted the censer bringing it down on Boil's head a music note playing as his head was caved in. Boil crumpled to the ground. Biberlus raged "You dare!" He turned his head slightly to Adelram "Keep going!" He flicked his head to the hooded Astartes "You will be bought low by the power of the grandfather!" The hooded Astartes slammed the haft of his weapon on the ground the musical notes that played when he killed both Death guard marines came together in a small chime or song. The Hooded Astartes scowled "You will die here maggot."

Adelram kept crawling he was nearing the edge of the pond. He stopped again as he saw a black feather floating down. He grabbed it and twisted it in his hands it was almost ethereal in how it looked another fell. He looked behind him to see Biberlus summoning his Sorcery. Like a comet a figure came down and planted their blade through Biberlus' neck.

Biberlus was then consumed by purple fire his spell dying on his lips. The being removed his blade as Biberlus fell to the ground charred. He could tell it was a man wearing almost form fitting armour he wore almost a poncho style cloak around his shoulders along with a hood. The cloak was split down the middle and was in two halves the ends were slightly torn. One thing that struck out the most to him was there was a book chained to his waist.

When Adelram looked at the cloak more closely there was a strange energy about the cloak and it moved like it was alive when the man turned he saw a skull.

He watched Jedrick walk forward pointing at Biberlus charred corpse "See Silas? He has no idea who killed him." Silas walked next to Jedrick and he poked Biberlus with his sword "I see your point." Adelram could not let them break his concentration he looked to the fountain and began crawling rapidly.

Jedrick yelled "Stop him!" Adelram reached fountain he was pulling himself up to go over he then felt someone grabbing his armour and pulling him back throwing him to the ground. It was the hooded Astartes.

The Astartes pulled off his hood revealing a face he recognised. It was Marthas. Adelram was breathing rapidly he got back on his body again and began crawling to the fountain again. Silas and Jedrick held him down. Adelram screamed "Let me go! I have to! Please!"

The man wearing the skull helmet walked to Marthas. Adelram looked up he made several hand gestures to him. Marthas rested his weapon on his shoulder "You can get it off?" the man nodded. He drew a knife Adelram could see the runes upon it and the blade burning hot with purple fire. The man worked the blade around the neck of his armour.

The helmet popped off. Adelram breathed in the air he felt something slamming into his mind his powers were returning. Adelram breathed in using telekinesis he pushed Silas and Jedrick back they crashed to the ground. Adelram continued crawling as he said "I am so close.." Adelram watched the skull faced man was now standing in front of him. Adelram shouted "Move! I said Move!" He sent more power forward the skull face man raised his hand his attack died soon as it reached him. He then made a pushing motion Adelram felt himself flying to the wall and held his legs dangling.

Marthas nodded to the man wearing the skull helmet. Well done. I wondered what happened for him to get like this?" Adelram watched the man make hand gestures with his other hand, Marthas shook his head in disbelief "So he lost his mark?" The man nodded. Marthas sighed at that response.

Marthas and the man slowly walked to him. Silas and Jedrick got up scratching their heads and approached. As Jedrick looked at him he could sense his anger he then punched his hand into his open palm and cursed "Sebastian will pay for this. I swear." Silas shrugged "I worry what the plague sorcerer did to his mind." Marthas looked him up and down as he was held unto the wall he scratched his chin with his hand he looked at the man "Can you put him to sleep?" He nodded with a wave of his free hand Adelram soon found that he was tired. He wanted to sleep.

He closed his eyes slowly as the fountain and his old commrades vanished from his view.

Chapter 5

Entry 10915

As my friend began implementing his teachings many of our own died. He had them fight each other to the death. He sent them on deadly missions I should be angry or upset but I wasn't. I saw the results the ones that survived were largely the ones I deemed competent. After he was done many had a repertoire of skills useful in guerrilla warfare. The imperials have not discovered us yet. The death guard calls us Shadows and the traitors think we don't exist.

The traitors deem their losses to be committed by the death guard, perhaps it's arrogance?. This serves us yet I am writing today not to talk about my friend but another has appeared Lord Jedrick. He was greatly confused and wondered where our lord was I was glad we reached him first since Sebastian would of most likely killed him. I told him how Sebastian has gathered majority of the warband and rules it. He did not believe me he would not think they would be that foolish.

I told him they were that foolish. There is a kill order for him and my friend. (Small note My friend was there to help me talk to him.) Jedrick then questioned how I survived. I pointed out that many of the people on the ship survived carried to this planet like I was but the ship is gone. When we reached the compound Jedrick then asked another question "So who is in charge of the compound?" Me and my friend pointed at each other to Jedrick's annoyance.


Adelram slowly woke up he was on a vehicle of some sort. He looked around to see he was resting on a pillow on the back of a large Goliath truck it seemed modified it was much more spacious than the normal variant. Adelram looked to his legs they were wrapped in a strange black cloth that twitched and moved. He felt something piercing his skin the cloth moving and restoring his bone. He looked beside him he saw the man wearing the skull helmet was looking over him his cloak unnaturally moving as it was wrapped around his legs.

He looked forward to see Marthas, Jedrick and Silas sitting in the back of truck. Adelram frowned "Why did you stop me?" Jedrick scowled "Is that the first thing you say after we saved you?" Adelram felt tired he blinked "Yes. Why did you stop me?" Silas sighed "They must of tormented him greatly for him to be like this." Adelram looked to his legs then back to the man he said out loud "Who is this? How is he fixing my legs?" He turned his head back to Silas, Jedrick and Marthas.

Marthas spoke his voice flat "It's Asriel of course. His cloak is... alive in a sense and can act as a conduit or acts similar to a psyker Familiar. From my understanding he is using biomancy to fix your legs." Adelram's eyes went wide he looked at him and frowned "He should be dead or in a cage." Jedrick pointed at Adelram "We would not have found you if he was not here. If he was not here we would most likely have walked into Sebastian's camp thinking everything was fine."

Adelram kept up his frown "He failed me." Marthas shook his head "No he did not. You just assum-" Adelram watched Asriel make rapid hand signs. Marthas sighed "Fine." Adelram eyed Marthas "What did he say?" Marthas turned away slightly "He asked me not to say any more." Adelram furrowed his brows "He is still a servant a failed one. You don't need to show him that much respect " Marthas casually looked at him "I can't disrespect a friend Adelram."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "A friend?" He laughed "Really!? What happened? Tell me." Marthas frowned "No." Adelram turned to Asriel "I wonder what you did for him to respect you so much." Adelram watched him make a sign he turned to Marthas who said "Asriel said he is sorry." Adelram scoffed "For what?"

Asriel made more hand signs, Marthas nodded "He said that he wished he found you sooner so you would not have ended up like this." Adelram could see he made a similar hand gesture saying he is sorry again. Adelram chuckled "What could you have done? At the end of the day even if you are possessed you are still a human."

Silas laughed slightly when he finished his sentance. Adelram looked at him "What is so funny?" Silas shrugged "Asriel can handle himself." Silas looked at Jedrick "What was it now? 5-4?" Jedrick scowled "It's 5-5." Marthas shook his head "I am quite sure it's 5-4."

Adelram was confused "What are you counting." Silas laughed again "First blood duels of course." Adelram confusion increased "I assume Jedrick was holding back?" As he said this Jedrick looked away. Adelram looked at Asriel again he could not tell what expression he was making due to the skull helmet he looked to Marthas "Is this true?"

Marthas nodded "It is. Jedrick could not believe Asriel was partly in charge of the compound so he challenged Asriel to a duel who won the first round." Silas interjected while snickering "In 10 seconds." Jedrick glowered "I underestimated him that time! He was pretty much a soft human in the past. With the neverborn in him in the past all he could do was let Meliva do all the work!" Jedrick folded his arms "Asriel when we get back I want another duel."

Adelram watched Asriel sigh. Adelram looked to Jedrick "So how many Astartes do we have? Sebastian told me it's only you three" Jedrick was silent for a moment "It's just us three." Adelram felt the despair crawling back in again he frowned he then felt a small hand on his chestplate. It was Asriel such a simple gesture for some reason calmed him down.

They sat in silence for a few more minutes until Silas started a conversation "So Asriel. The story with the pen. Is it true?" Adelram perked up slightly "Story with a pen?" Jedrick laughed and Marthas sighed. Marths looked at him "Asriel killed someone with a pen." Adelram's mouth hanged slightly "How?"

Adelram looked up to Asriel he was curious. Asriel then made several hand gestures, Marthas then said "He was in a bar one time getting a drink the bar had a rule between crime lords that no weapons could be bought in the rule was respected even when they fought. A hit man came in he sat next to him and pulled a pistol. He quickly grabbed his wrist and twisted causing him to drop his weapon. He pulled out his pen and stabbed him several times in the neck and one time in the eye. He then he slammed him on the bar table and stabbed the pen into his ear finally killing him."

Adelram was impressed yet he was conflicted, he failed him. How can he trust him? He watched Asriel make a hand gesture, Marthas creased his brow "After that the bar agreed to ban pens and pencils." Silas laughed while slapping his leg and Jedrick whistled. Marthas leaned back "I am surprised you did not mention the story on how you lost your wings."

Silas looked to Marthas and Asriel he said "He had wings? I thought the cloak was how he flew?" Asriel made a few hand gestures, Marthas nodded "An ordo heretics inquisitor who was a psyker burned them. He managed to kill her but his wings were now useless he chopped them off and used it to create the cloak. He also used her blood in the weaving mixed with his own."

Adelram looked at Marthas "He managed to create a sort of famliar? Even I-" Adelram fell silent. Asriel made a hand sign. Marthas said "Asriel said he could show you how." Adelram nodded yet he asked a question "Why is Asriel using Sign language?" Marthas stared at him "Well to communicate. I had to learn it when Asriel found me. It made things easier for both of us." Adelram frowned "You did not answer my question Marthas." Marthas leaned on his hand "Well you told him not to speak. He has not uttered a word since he arrived on this planet."

Adelram thought back to that time he told him to be silent. He followed that directive ever since he asked Marthas another question "How long has he been on the planet?" Marthas held his chin "Sebastian and I appeared roughly at the same time. That was about 50 years ago."

Adelram almost got up slightly shocked at the time he looked at Asriel he said "Remove your helmet." Asriel nodded he removed his helmet and pulled back his hood. Adelram could see he has not aged a single day. His dark skin had no wrinkles save his blue eyes were now slits. He asked Asriel another question "How long have you been on this planet?" He watched Asriel begin making a hand gesture. Adelram held his hands "With your own voice Asriel."

He could see him biting his lip he spoke his voice was like a distortion mixed with the neverborn Meliva "One hundred years my lord." Adelram could see everyone in the truck were surprised even Marthas.

Marthas shrugged "Makes sense. When it comes to chaos age holds little signficance depending on one's standing." Adelram watched Asriel placing his helmet back on he said "Indeed it does. Most likely Meliva's keeping me "fresh.""

Adelram squinted his eyes "Your voice..." Asriel cocked his head slightly "I see." He coughed slighty as he said "Is this better my lord?" Adelram raised his eyebrow "You can do that?" Asriel nodded "Yes. Doing this takes barely any effort it's like holding a pen." Silas laughed as he mentioned pen.

Asriel touched his chestplate again he said something which surprised him "I will kill the one who did this to you my lord. This I swear." Silas chuckled "Are you going to break his legs?" Asriel shook his head in disagreement "Worse. Far worse."

Marthas folded his arms as he said "Have you given Adelram the trinket?" Adelram watched Asriel pull out a small bracelet. He hooked it around his wrist Adelram looked at it "What is this?" Asriel pointed to it "There is a ritual protecting the compound if someone does not have the charm we will drive in circles never finding it."

Adelram asked another question "Who did this ritual?" Marthas pointed at Asriel. Another suprise Adelram said to himself.
After a second Marthas posture suddenly changed he spoke his voice flat "Adelram. We have to address your loss of favour." Adelram turned his head "I do not wish to speak of it." Marthas pushed further "It has to be addressed." Jedrick glowered "Are you going to make him read that book?" Silas sighed "You dislike it because part of you actually agrees. You should read it again it's pretty interesting you know." Jedrick scoffed and turned away slightly.

Marthas shook his head "No. We need to do more than that. If Adelram faces sebastian as he is now he would die." Adelram grew frustrated the same despair clinging his heart as he said "Who said I will face him?" Jedrick was shocked "What? Seriously?" Marthas sighed "I feared this would happen." Silas leaned back "Marthas it seems you got your work cut out for you." Asriel was silent.

Eventually they entered a tunnel as they exited they came to a large Apartment complex. Marthas gestured with his head "Well here we are."

Yeah so got a few chapters up to sum up what happened to Marthas and Asriel. I had fun writing those chapters.

Asriel is this guy.



+

This guy. (Watch the movie if you haven't it's great)

Marthas?

This guy MINUS being a nazi.(Also watch this show if you haven't it's great I am not even that much of an anime fan.)


+

With this. Since you know his core is still there.

I like the story right now. Good job! I like seeing the gang back together again lol.

lliu wrote:
I like the story right now. Good job! I like seeing the gang back together again lol.

Glad you are enjoying it!

Chapter 6

entry 10960

My friend has spent much time teaching our soldiers. The decline rate on our slaves have dropped dramatically. Jedrick was unsure because he wondered if he is turning them into religious fanatics similar to what Ivan did in the past. All of us were together at the time and Jedrick raised that point to him. My friend pointed out that we are all fanatics in our own way being a fanatic in a specific area is what slaanesh is about. In war, art or even obsession.

He did point out war and suffering is the highest expression of it though. My friend told us to look at the people who's desires are base. Those who like spending time with women or eating all day do they ever gain the mark? Do they ever mutate or are shaped? At most it's minor if it ever happens.

He pointed out that when the third kills or mains humans to feel again they either feel nothing or a small blip on their nervous system. As he said this I could see there was understanding lining Jedrick's features. I was worried that even Jedrick was going to get sucked up into his teachings. My worries soon vanished as he read his book and called it garbage of course he might just be saying that because he may have found some things that he was wrong about and does not want to admit it.

Soon after that a scout returned to the compound saying that there is a Astartes with a jet pack hunting nurgle cultists. We all knew who it was. We went to the area pointed out by the scout we looked up to see Silas standing on the edge of a small building. He looked at us and sighed. He said that Sebastian's people have already come to offer a place to him. He rejected them they told him it remains open and of course in a similar fashion we told him everything that occured he simply shrugged and gave a long yawn.

At that moment I knew I could not let him leave since there is a possibility that he would join Sebastian eventually. We watched him activate his jump pack he leaped high into the air. I picked up a stone an old memory returning I gripped it tightly. I felt the veins in my arm pulsing as I gripped the rock tighter.

I threw the rock with all my might like a meteor it went straight into the vents of his jet pack. We all heard the rattling. Silas tried to steady himself in the air. I picked up a bottle next and threw it upwards like a javelin hitting the same spot again. Smoke poured out of the right exhaust of the jet pack he tumbled to the ground like a comet.

Silas crashed to the ground with a loud thud. My friend was cross with me since I potentially may of killed him since he landed on his head somewhat even if he is wearing a helmet. Jedrick complemented my throwing arm. We walked over, Jedrick decided to poke him with his axe, Silas did not move. Jedrick shrugged and grabbed both of his legs(He dragged him back to the base) and we bought him to the compound.


As the Goliath truck stopped Adelram looked to his legs he could actually feel them. The power armour around his legs was cracked in various sections. He moved his leg slightly the armour creaked but the sharp pain has also vanished he wondered how much his failed servant has learned in the last hundred years.

Another unsettling thought was crossing his mind that possibly he might know more than him oddly enough it angered him. He rose, Asriel held his hands up, Adelram waved him away "I think my legs are fine now." Marthas turned to Jedrick "Help him out of the truck he might not be fully healed yet." Adelram through clenched teeth said "I am fine. I don't need help." He started to move the black tendrils of Asriel's cloak removed themselves from his legs.

A slight pain returned to his legs. Adelram grabbed the wall of the cargo bed, he lifted himself up and hopped over he landed on his legs. The sharp pain was still there it's likely Asriel was reducing or limiting the pain receptors in his legs. He could walk but slowly.

Silas looked over "You are not going to confront Sebastian?" Adelram stopped "No I am not. Why do you keep asking?" Silas hopped over he shrugged "Well considering how Long Marthas and especially Asriel was waiting for you they might be quite disappointed with you right now." Adelram turned to silas "I should care why? A black templar who has barely been with us and a failed servant. Why should I care what they think?"

Jedrick hopped off the truck, Jedrick folded his arms "Silas, he still reeks of the plague god. I can smell it." Adelram felt his anger building up "Perhaps if we all did follow him this might of not happened." Jedrick stepped towards him his voice to him seemed like he was holding back his anger "Are you really saying that? After all we have been through?" Adelram leaned forward "I am."

Adelram could see Jedrick moving his hand to his axe. Adelram focused his arms glowed with power "I dare you Jedrick." Adelram then heard several feet hitting the ground. Marthas walked towards him "Jedrick calm yourself. Asriel and I prepared for such an event."

Adelram leaned back and stared at Marthas "What do you mean prepared?" Marthas nodded "Well it was more of Asriel who introduced the possibility of this happening. In the likely event the death guard or Sebastian got to you first." As Asriel hopped out of the truck, Adelram looked at him his cloak unnaturally moving in the air "What could both of you even do?"

Marthas tapped the haft his weapon on the floor "Well right now Asriel is better at sorcery than you are. He spent most of his time doing trial and error to give you the means to learn quickly." Adelram shook his head "I am not going to learn anything from a failed servant Marthas. Nor from someone who is of lower station." Adelram pushed past Jedrick and walked to the apartment complex.

Marthas called out "Your greatest strength is your pride and your failing." Adelram ignored him as he approached he could see snipers getting out of the various trucks. They wore hooded jackets and cloaks. Adelram reached the courtyard of the complex as he stepped in everyone looked at him they froze.

Adelram looked to the humans staring at him some faces he recognized others he did not. Adelram walked through the courtyard to the apartment complex. Oddly when he looked around there were patches of flowers he wondered how one would cultivate them in such a war torn climate.
As he reached the doors of the apartment complex to his right he saw a woman sitting in a chair relaxing being fanned by two chained slaves. She wore a dirty red dress and black shades. The Slaves looked to be wearing torn imperial uniforms after a second the woman raised her glasses she smiled "My lord! It's been such a long time!" She sat up and waved the slaves away.

She walked over to him each step clearly practised "It seems Asriel was right. How have you been? You look terrible!" Adelram sighed in annoyance "Elizabeth." She curtsied when he mentioned her name she rose and smiled again "So when are you going to kill Sebastian? I am quite eager to leave this rock." Adelram narrowed his eyes at her "I am not going to kill him also if I did we don't have a ship to leave this planet with."

Elizabeth frowned "I see." Adelram continued walking "Now leave me be." Adelram walked into the complex the building housed various small flats from what he can tell on the ground floor people were walking by going on their business until he entered. One human approached him wearing the robes of his house he got on his knees several others followed suit the acolyte raised his hands "Our lord has returned! Praise the dark prince!" the bowed humans followed his words.

Adelram frowned again as he walked past them to their shock the acolyte turned "My lord?" Adelram continued walking he wanted to find an empty flat where he could be alone. He walked up to the second floor there was an opened door in the corridor. Adelram looked inside. It was empty, Adelram lowered himself slightly to enter he closed the door behind him. As he walked into the corner of the room each step he took each sting in his legs reminded him of the events of what Sebastian and Gethus did to him and his legs. What happened at the fountain was still imprinted on his mind.

He sat in the corner and looked down thinking. Everything is lost. His one chance to have something better gone because he was "saved." He laughed by himself he still wondered what he was thinking in all these years he deigned not a word or look. That would never change. So why should he seek the approval of one who ignored him at every turn? Adelram chuckled again "Damian was right after all."

Chapter 7

Entry 10963

We had our tech priest look at Silas's damaged jump pack. I acquired him in the past due to him owing me a favour and the fact he felt that his research was limited with the imperials. He was quite surprised that there was a 4th element in this war. When Silas awoke before we could explain anything he moved to attack me for a slave to daring to do such a thing. So I decided to play along. My friend tried to stop us but I told him not to.

So he chased me around the the general area of the complex. He could not catch me after 12 hours of trying. I have been chased by far more dangerous predators.

I mean assassins one specifically. The most exciting and terrifying encounter was with an assassin with a skull helmet and various machinery lining it. He could phase through walls (At least I thought he did. At times he would appear out of nowhere), when I first encountered him it felt like my mind was going to explode I was being drained of energy just being in his presence. Meliva told me they are called Culexus Assassins. In the end I could not kill him directly I led him to a trap that almost cost me my life. That memory I found fond. I keep his skull(His actual skull not the helmet) in my closet when I want to reminisce.

Well going back on topic Silas eventually gave up. After that he now listened to what me and my friend had to say. In the end it drew his interest and he joined us due to the fact it would be more "interesting." I told him that a tech priest is repairing his jet pack on the 4th floor. He nodded and left us.

My friend was about to leave until I told him to wait. Writing this I pray this is not the case but we have to plan around this. I told him what we should do if Sebastian or the nurglites find him. What they would do to him. Both would try to break him. I recommend we have our best scouts placed near the nurgle followers and Sebastian's area's of control in the city.

He agreed with my idea to place scouts. He also raised the issue that the neverborn are whispering of Sebastian's rise in power. I was surprised that he now talked to the neverborn I did tell him to be careful. He noted my concern he does not trust them entirely. He raised the point that sebastian is gaining more favour and power. Far more than our lord. It's likely if he is broken we have to force him to grow. My friends words were thus "We will have to sharpen his mind and body so he can take back which is rightfully his. We will have to truly teach him when someone confronts him to destroy them utterly. When someone seeks to defy him he should show his wrath."

I agreed that may have to be done I did ask him has he found joy in war? He nodded he said these words "It's only through war where one might grow and become better. The adrenaline when you brush close with death and when you defeat an equal or superior opponent. The sweat on your brow as you charge into battle and the feeling of a hopeless situation, your mind sharpens you either sink or swim. Adapt or die."

As he said this it made me remember certain events in the past I felt those exact things. Still My friend does not truly know how the galaxy is changing still he suspects that the galaxy is not as it was. My lord has to be far more powerful if we are to survive in this galaxy. Even if he defeats Sebastian with the power he has now and we leave it's highly likely we will die. Thinking on this I decided to go check on that place again. I have to be prepared.

Asriel was in his room preparing his crossbow. He now has found his lord even if he is broken. He cursed the plague god and his followers if they found him sooner he might of not ended up like this. They will have to push hard to break him out of the clutches of the god of pestilence.
Even if they saved him from the fountain his "smell" is still about him. Asriel closed his eyes afterwards. He had someone to save first. Asriel loaded several bolts into the crossbow.

Asriel got up and left his room, he was on the fourth floor he could hear Tech priest Caius tinkering away at his request. It does not matter if his request is completed if his lord is in such a state. He heard from several people that his lord took an empty room on the second floor. Asriel felt Meliva coiling "So what are you going to do to the one that broke his legs?" Asriel scowled "I will think about it on the way there." He could tell Meliva was getting excited again. Perhaps due to the fact he has quite an "active imagination" when it comes to killing people.

Asriel knew it was clear that his lord won't see him. He had a feeling that at most on the truck he was tolerating his presence still. As Asriel was walking down the stairs he passed by a woman. It was Lily she was still wearing the captain's jacket he found her a few years ago. She was another necessary element.

She stopped in his way "Where are you going?" Asriel looked away "To get someone now that our lord is here." Lily did not move she shook her head "Everyone is talking. Our lord is depressed. He won't fight. He needs you here." Asriel finally looked at her "He consider's me a failed servant still." Lily stepped forward "After all you have done? Done for everyone?" Asriel nodded "Yes."

Asriel continued walking he stopped and turned his head slightly back "Do not worry. Marthas will deal with it. Trust me." Lilly nodded. Asriel continued as he made his way out of the apartment block he reached the exit of the courtyard. Marthas stood at the exit he was looking at a map his weapon Eligos rested on the side wall. Asriel stopped he wondered if he was here to see him off? At times he knows whenever he is leaving even if he does not tell him "I am going to pick someone up. I trust you can fix our lord?" Marthas looked up and nodded "I am confident that I can I shall try to talk to him while you are away."

Marthas picked up Eligos and began walking away, Asriel turned "You are not going to ask where I am going?" Marthas stopped "Are you letting w our lord's words get to you? I know that you can handle himself. Kill many Asriel." Asriel nodded "I shall."

Asriel expanded his cloak, feathers spawned from his cloak covering it until it looked like wings. He flapped and launched himself in the air.

Gethus was exploring a building with members of his squad if you could call it such. They were only together since they admired him and the changes wrought on his flesh. The squad was 6 Astartes in total. Sebastian has them search the various buildings for slaves. There are many humans that are hiding within them to get away from the conflict.

Still this building was empty. Gethus spat on the ground "We will make another sweep. Sebastian would not like us returning empty handed." His squad all nodded.

They exited the building they were exploring and entered another one next to it. As they entered there was a strange darkness about it. Like someone was watching them. One of his squad members spoke up "this place might be cursed by the followers of the plague god. We should move to another building." Gethus hissed "It's not. Considering it does not stink of decay and rot. Stop being a coward." Gethus could see he was about to protest again but he fell silent.

They entered a corridor at the edge of his ear he could hear a sound. Soon a unnatural growl it sounded like one of the neverborn. In a split second a squad member fell to the floor and was dragged into the darkness screaming. They all raised their guns to the darkness. They advanced slowly to a large room they found their missing squad member dead lying in a pool of blood.

Gethus walked over to examine his body. His throat was slit open the cut is deep, each rent where there was a gap in his armour blood was pooling. Another Astartes spoke up "This place might be cursed by daemons." Gethus scowled "Enough! We advance and check each of the buildings."

They explored the whole building and found nothing. Now he has to explain how an Astartes has mysteriously died to Sebastian. He had to find slaves if he could perhaps Sebastian would forgive this blunder.

They advanced to the next building. Gethus shook his head the same feeling was here in this building as well. Someone or something was watching them. He gestured his squad to advance. As they were advancing through another corridor he heard something it was like a whistle suddenly three Astartes collapsed.

There were two of them left. Gethus walked over all three had bolts stuck in their helmets. The remaining Astartes knelt down and removed the helmet. Gethus watched as a river of blood pooled out of the helmet there was no head there. As the Astartes pulled out the bolt there was a long wire thin wire attached to it. He rose holding the bolt "I have only seen inquisitors and assassins use weapons like these. We should leave."
Gethus looked down to the corpses "Agreed. Who ever is chasing us most likely knows the layout of the building."

His remaining squad member nodded. Gethus heard another whistle sound passing his ear as another bolt crashed into his remaining squad member's head. He was not wearing a helmet he watched as his head exploded blowing away a chunk of meat from his face and small wires slashing the remaining meat of his head turning it to nothing save a river of blood.

He collapsed. Gethus turned and shouted "Coward! Come and face me!" Gethus shot rapidly with his bolt pistol down the corridor into the darkness. He ran to the exit of the building, he entered a large hall.

He turned back his bolt pistol gripped in his hand looking and the twin doors he came through he looked forward and approached the exit he then heard a door opening and closing behind him. Gethus smiled and turned "So the coward is showing their face?"

He saw a man wearing black armour and a skull helmet. He wore a strange ponho style cloak that seemed to move and melt into the darkness. There were also black feathers trailing about it. Gethus smiled "I will kill you for this. No I will torment you, you will beg for death but I will deny you." His assilant did not utter a word. Gethus shrugged "Can't speak? I shall call you skull face. You are wearing that disgusting helmet."
Gethus drew his chainsword "I can't wait to hear you scream worm." Gethus charged as he reached his adversary he did a downwards slash with his chainsword. This will be a perfect strike the hewing of meat. He smiled his joy turned to shock when his strike missed his chainsword sparking as his slashed the door.

He could see skull face dodged to the side "How did you dodge that? What are you?" He watched skull face twist downwards swiftly he soon felt a sharp pain at the back of his leg. He stabbed a knife in the back of his knee.

Gethus turned to skull face to strike again yet he was gone. At the corner of his eye he moved to his other leg and soon there was another sharp pain is his other leg. Gethus grit his teeth "Hold still!" Gethus turned to skull face he reached down to pull out the knife.
As he was about to do so his legs were consumed in a purple light. He felt intense pain for a moment and soon afterwards he felt himself tumbling. As he crashed to the ground he could see his legs. He looked to himself his legs were gone.

Gethus grit his teeth. He did not like the agony he was feeling. This was different compared to the sensations in the camp. Skull face walked over to him. Gethus raised his bolt pistol yet he could not move his arm it was wrapped up by his cloak. Gethus looked into the eyes of skull face "How did you do this! What are you!"

Skull face uttered a few words his voice was not human "An angel." The other end of his cloak moved to wrap around his other arm. The cloak contuined to move up both his arms finally covering his body. Gethus could not move he could hear his armour straining as he tried to move.
Gethus wondered what his cloak was made out of it acted like it was alive. Gethus grit his teeth "Release me. I can see power about you my lord interested in such power." Skull face cocked his head slightly he walked towards him and crawled on top his body he looked directly at him the blue eye lenses of his helmet shimmering.

Skull face said "I wonder did you enjoy breaking my lord's legs?" When he said that it finally dawned on him "You mean Adelram?" Skull face nodded. Gethus licked his lips "It was necessary I was ordered to." Gethus watched skull face growl unnaturally "Yet you stand with the traitor." Gethus smiled "He is favoured by the dark prince. Of course I follow him. Our old lord was ineffective even when he embraced slaanesh he still limited us."

Gethus sighed he spoke trying to ignore the pain of his missing limbs "As I said you hold power. Such power should be used by the favoured." Skull face fell silent he spoke after a few seconds "Did you enjoy breaking my lord's legs?" Gethus smiled "Yes I did enjoy breaking his legs. Watching him thrash on the ground screaming like a child was wonderful." Skull face nodded "I see."

Gethus watched the skull distort and twist the teeth sharpening into fangs. The eye lenses changing blinking like an actual face. The maw of the helmet opened he heard clicking as the jaws unhinged growing wider. Purple saliva dripping on his face.

Gethus felt his breathing increase and as soon as he blinked skull face returned to normal. Skull face sat upwards thinking as he said out loud "No, that would be too easy." He watched him hop off his body he looked at him as he said "I will enjoy this."

Gethus watched as the cloak started to move again a strand crawling up his body like a snake. It shot down his mouth he began struggling again. He could feel it moving inside him wrapping itself around each of his organs. He could see skull face nodding.

A second later he felt one of his hearts being squeezed until it was crushed. Gethus gagged blood leaving his lips, Skull face nodded "I recall you have two just in case one fails." Gethus soon felt his liver being constricted and he felt a sharp pain as the organ was destroyed.

Gethus thrashed slightly slightly the cloak constricting his movements he is going to die. Skull face is just planning to kill him slowly. He felt pain in his lower body. He knew another organ was being destroyed he looked at skull face as he said "I am destroying your intestine, both of them. That is what you are feeling right now." Gethus tasted his saliva now mixing with vomit that's coming up from his mouth.

He could also taste blood. He screamed but it came out a gargle. Skull face nodded again "I am going to destroy both lungs." Gethus's eyes went wide he thrashed with all his might in order to free himself. What manner of creature is he? What is he? What did he do to earn the ire of such a creature!? Gethus thought to himself.

Gethus felt both his lungs being crushed a drowning sensation filled his chest. Gethus felt his last heart being squeezed. Black spots were filling his vision. He can't die like this. In a dark building, in a forsaken rock surrounded by nothing. His death should of been glorious. His vision was draining away as he felt his last heart exploding in his chest.

Asriel looked at the dead Astartes. He was lucky that a scout spotted him during the act. They would not have found his lord otherwise. When the scout told him of what he did he wanted an accurate description of him. This was a simple detour. Now to the main reason why he is here.

Wonderful! Satisfying to behold.

Chapter 8

entry 10968

Now that Silas was here just having three Astartes helped greatly in ambushes. Still our lord has not appeared everyone is appearing at various points of time. I also suspect the followers of the plague god are searching for that place hence why they have been on this planet for so long. Meliva told me of it when we arrived. When I first went to that place it shocked me. The first thing I did was take various measures to protect it. I have added to the defenses over the years.

I won't mention location or what it is due to possible information leaks. Still Sebastian's antic's have diverted the death's guard attention and the imperial forces hammering both leaves them distracted. So I suspect none will stumble onto it. I have taken time to scout the camps of the traitors and the death guard.(I have to apply proper wards to myself due to the unnatural diseases since I cannot rely on Meliva entirely.)I have also visited the inner city where the imperial's are based. It took some work but I have eyes there as well.
He just has to appear and all can begin.

Isira sat in the tent chained to Sebastian's throne the sounds of torment and torture all around her. Two Astartes stood like stones watching her for any "tricks." Isira looked to her hands the wrinkles were increasing ever since she heard Adelram's voice. Someone entered the tent breaking her thoughts and it was someone she did not like to see. It was Sebastian, he chained her to the throne and treats her like a trophy of sorts.

To Isira his musk was mixed with the strong scent of blood and gore. As always he spends a great amount of time tormenting slaves. He walked over to her and knelled down smiling "My dear brother must be enjoying the company of our cousins right now. I have seen what they do to "unbelievers" Isira it's quite wonderful." Isira scowled "Why did you do that! For what purpose!" Sebastian's tongue flicked out he held it for a few seconds as he drew his nail down it drawing a small measure of blood "Well I wanted him to suffer greatly. Death is far too easy, So I had his legs broken. Gethus told me how he screamed like a child. I wish I could of seen it."
As he said this patches of her blonde hair began to turn grey she wanted to cry but not in front of him. Anything but that she told herself. Sebastian picked up her hair and sniffed it "Even if the colour is becoming disgusting your hair smells so nice." Sebastian smiled, Isira knew what he was going to ask "I will ask you again serve me and you will be free. You can even enjoy the delights of the camp."

Isira scoffed "You know my answer. So you better get to torturing me again." Sebastian pouted "Torturing you got rather boring to say the least. I wonder why do you like my weakling brother so much?" Isira looked away "It's none of your business." Sebastian held her face he licked her cheek "I wonder how he swept you off your feet in order for you to be so loyal. Adelram is a stick in the mud compared to me. He has always been that way perhaps that's why he can't truly grasp the way of how to truly follow the dark prince."

Isira looked directly into his eyes the scent of blood and gore was vanishing the musk was filling her nostrils she felt her mind slowing down her body became slack. Sebastian repeated his question "Serve me. Be mine and know endless bounties." In Isira's mind a word was crawling into her mind slowly she wondered what was happening this never happened before.

Isira's lips moved "Y-Never! I will never bow to you!" Sebastian sighed "Very well. Perhaps he can entertain you." Sebastian stood up right and walked to the tent door he opened it slightly.
A chained slave hobbled towards scars lining his face and hands. Isira recognised him she curled her lips in digust "Belov." Belov looked up at her smiling "The master said. If I hit you the torture will stop."
Isira lurched forward straining at the chains "He is lying!" Belov held his head "He said. it will. stop." Isira looked at Sebastian grinning "Now dear Belov. I understand this woman has wounded you greatly. Do enjoy yourself." Sebastian left the tent laughing.

Isira bought her eyes to Belov she watched him breathe in and out he stood motionless for almost a minute. Belov began to walk slowly towards her, Belov raised his fist he swung his fist into Isira's face. She fell to the ground. He began stomping and kicking her. Isira grit her teeth for some reason it actually hurt far more than usual.

She found all the torture began to hurt her there was no joy or pleasure in it. Belov continued to cry "He said it will stop!" He kicked her in the belly. Belov was breathing heavily. He was about to kick her again until Isira heard a whistle sound. A bolt was lodged in Belov's head, soon wires whipped out slashing his head to pieces. He crumpled to the ground with a thud.

Both Astartes readied their bolters and looked around the tent. Isira looked to the tent wall behind the throne there was a small hole. As she blinked two more holes were made she looked back to see bolts lodged in the helmets of both Astartes. They stood still for a moment and soon collapsed to the ground.

She sat in silence wondering what just happened. A knife pierced through the tent wall, the knife moved down wards opening a hole revealing the stone wall of the camp. A man stepped through wearing a cloak and skull helmet. He approached her.
She was not entirely sure what to do. The man wearing the skull helmet gripped the manicle on her neck and pulled it apart. He then moved to her hands and feet. Isira rubbed her wrists. She tried to stand but fell down slightly.
The man swiftly swept her up in both arms and stepped back through the hole. It was tight being next to the wall of the tent and the stone wall of the camp. Isira wondered how they would get out the noise of the camp covered their deaths but how would he get past all the Astartes. To Isira's shock the man's cloak began to change turning into wings.

The man launched himself over the wall. Isira said under her breath "We are outside the camp..." The man flapped his wings again and they went flying in the air.
She looked back to see Astartes going into the tent, some even pointed yet it was too late. Isira also noted the giant crossbow on his back she wondered how he could fly carrying such a thing along with her weight.
She looked directly at the man holding her and asked "Who are you?" He was silent for a moment as he spoke she recognised the voice "I said I will come and save you." Isira eyes went wide in disbelief as she said "You should be dead." Asriel shook his head "You thought I will be dead. You should not place too much stock on visions sent by the gods."

Isira bit her lips "How are we flying?" Asriel turned his head to her slightly "Considering the weight I am using a bit of telekensis to help alivate that." Isira gave a small laugh "There is no point saving me considering our lord is dead." Asriel fell silent again for a moment he soon said "This is why I did not rescue you sooner. You would not leave or want to be saved if he was not alive." Isira's eyes went wide a tear almost trailed down her cheek "So he is..." Asriel nodded "Alive."
Isira smiled she held Asriel tightly.

Adelram heard a knock. He ignored it and then another he shouted "Leave me in peace!" Soon the door opened he rose "Who dares!?" He slowly sat down again soon as he saw who it was. Marthas stepped through the door.
He walked over and sat down next to him. Adelram moved straight to the point "Why are you here?" Marthas looked at him his face was neutral "To talk to you of course." Adelram frowned "I don't want to talk you." Marthas shrugged "You will listen either way."
Adelram scowled "there is nothing to fix Marthas. I would have never expected you to become an apostle." Marthas smiled to Adelram it was somewhat unsettling to see the way his face was shaped did not suit smiling. He preferred his dour look "I did not expect it either. Still to get what I want this is what I have to be." Adelram raised his eyebrow "What is it that you want?" Marthas folded his arms "To smash the foundation of the imperium." Adelram laughed "With what? A few armed men and two Astartes?"

Marthas shook his head "I expected you to lead us to that and if I die before then I hope my teachings carry on." Adelram sighed he knew it he wants to preach to him "Marthas I am not interested in the cult you developed." Marthas chuckled slightly "I understand the problems you faced." Adelram narrowed his eyes at him "Problems?" Marthas nodded "I don't know what despair the plague sorcerer told you to embrace but I understand the problems you faced leading the warband."
Adelram scoffed "Oh really? What problems did I face then?" Marthas tapped his chin with two fingers "The fact you could not truly ravage a world. Save for a few Astartes none were reliable. Also the fact controlling the serf population due to the sensory deprivation of the Astartes on the ship." Adelram was silent those were problems he had some Astartes questioning him in the past when Asriel was asleep that he was still limiting them.

Adelram sighed "What would you have done?" Marthas held his chin "Well if you defeat Sebasbtian and control the warband again I have a solution that can help produce the elite you require." Adelram scoffed "You are trying to make me face him."
Marthas shook his head "As you are? No. If you faced him now he would kill you with ease." Marthas rubbed his neck "We need to hone you to a razor point edge. It would take days or even months but it can be done." Adelram creased his brow "You would have me learn from a failed servant? No creature." Adelram could see Marthas frowning when he said that "Why insult him so? None of this would exist without his hard work. He prepared all of this for you."
As Marthas talked of Asriel it annoyed him "I see you are awfully "friendly" with him. Why be that way with a servant? No I am being too polite as always he is a slave. Do you want him Marthas? You can have him if you want." Marthas sighed "If you truly wish to know fighting with someone for over fifty years does that you considering how many life and death situations you are put in.

Adelram clenched his hands at the thought of Marthas and Asriel being together and fighting side by side for so many years. Adelram has not known Asriel for even a fraction of the time "So tell me Marthas why is my slave so devoted to me? I recall putting him in a cage. I am quite sure he must hate me for that. Honestly I was planning to leave him there to rot." Adelram could see Marthas was not exactly happy with his words Adelram smiled "Struck a nerve have I?" Marthas shook his head "No. It's more the fact how blind you truly are." Adelram chuckled "I am not blind I see more clearly." As Adelram said this he heard a small buzz at the back of his mind he continued "I bet he is doing all of this to gain my forgiveness. Humans can be so pathetic sometimes. Don't you agree Marthas?" Marthas leaned his head back "Is that what you think? Right now he is most likely murdering the person who broke your legs."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "Wha-" Marthas interrupted him "Oh you should of seen his reaction when he got the report that one of the traitors broke your legs. He flew into a rage. His anger, His pain and the clear hurt on his face. His lord going through such a thing it took both Silas and Jedrick to calm him down. Asriel's excess is so wonderful to see when he clearly displays it. You still don't realise how fortunate you are to have such a devoted servant Adelram." Adelram thought on Marthas' words "He could still be seeking forgiveness." Marthas shrugged "He does not desire it." Adelram was surprised "What do you mean?" Marthas stroked his chin "His words were thus when we had our small talks. My lord may never forgive me for what I did. I don't mind as long as I can help him that is all I need and want. If he wants me to end myself when we find him I shall do so."

That certainty that Adelram felt before began crumbling. Doubt set in it would not go away another thought crept into his mind possibly. Just maybe he might of made a mistake somewhere. Adelram tried to push the thought away he looked at Marthas it seemed easier to focus on him. Adelram frowned "You seem so sure of yourself? I am quite sure you are also a "ineffective" degenerate like the rest of my brothers. I guess you are just hiding it better."

Marthas nodded "Well I almost became that way, when Asirel found me it became... difficult I wanted to do things that "distracted" me from my goal. It was happening to many of our men in the compound as well. I found a solution with Asriel's help."

Adelram thought to himself again staring at Marthas for a couple of seconds the way Marthas carried himself he moved to another conclusion there is no way he could be a follower of the dark prince. He seemed too.. calm or at ease. Adelram used his witch sight to look at him as he saw his soulfire it was like a raging inferno ready to engulf him. The purple flames lashing and pulling at anything that got close. It was hot way too hot compared to Sebastian it felt like his skin was melting. Looking at Sebastian was like looking at a bright light in a building. Starting at Marthas was like looking at the sun.

Adelram was breathing rapidly he could see Marthas smiling he asked "What did you see? I assume deflecting your problems is not working anymore? Or perhaps possibly you might be wrong?" Adelram look down in his heart in that pit of despair he knew he was right Adelram blurted out without thinking "Your soul is too bright." Marthas leaned back on the wall he placed his weapon on his lap "Asriel with the aid of Caius made this weapon for me. I call it Eligos." Adelram could see that there was a neverborn within the weapon various runes was carved on the spiked censer.

Adelram gave a heavy sigh "Don't you feel any shame going to mere humans for help?" Marthas shook his head "Why should I? They help me to perfect myself in war. I would be shaming myself if I refused. They are giving the means to kill stronger opponents. They allow me to hone myself even further."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "Perfect yourself in war?" Marthas nodded "Indeed. I learned in the end the gods feed on suffering and death first most. That is the highest prayer to them." Adelram frowned "You sound like Ivan." Marthas held his chin "Perhaps. He was right on that aspect from what Asriel told me. Still, will slaanesh truly reward those who only sit on the table and devour food all day? Will he strengthen the man or women who spends all their free time in pleasure houses? No. He gives to those who bring him the souls and the best way to do that is through war. I will become the epitome of warfare. The highest point of it."

Adelram folded his arms "You now sound like a Khornate." Marthas creased his brow "Khronates do war for the sake of it. Joy does not enter it. Becoming better is not the goal. Honing yourself to a razor edge is not a part of what they do. Learning and experiencing every facet of it. Being stuck in a life and death situation how your mind races with solutions. The adrenaline of overcoming that and growing from it. Khorne demands war to spill blood nothing else. Emotion does not enter it. He limits how you do it Slaanesh does not. Slaanesh wants you to exprience everything of your chosen field."

Adelram listened to his words the obsession of perfecting yourself through warfare. He thought of Lucius the eternal suddenly. He aimed to be the best swordsman so he fought anyone who was deemed to be better than him. No matter the opponent. No matter who he had to destory or kill to get there and now he is the dark princes highest champion.

Marthas continued "I almost died several times to get where I am today. Yet it was worth it. When I killed those plague marines it was like they were moving in slow motion. I could hear him moving his finger to the trigger. The bullets moving in the air. I could see it all. I can tell Asriel wants to prepare us for something. Looking at that warp scar in the sky I know deep down the galaxy is a far more dangerous place and we have to be ready for that."

Adelram looked to his hands the buzzing in his mind became intense part of knew he had to say it. Perhaps just maybe someone might understand. "Marthas I want to tell you something." He watched Marthas turn to him listening "What is it." Adelram clenched his eyes shut trying to push back the buzzing sound "It's why I do what I do." Adelram could see he was listening carefully, Adelram's mouth felt dry for some reason "My father my primarch. Ignores me. In the past no matter how hard I tried no matter how I rose ranks. He has no uttered a single word or look."

Adelram sighed "I hear stories of neverborn bearing messages from our father to his most favoured. Complements even warnings. I charged that wall on cadia just hoping even if I die I might get a word from him." Adelram fell silent waiting for a response he laughed slightly "All I did was for something so simple. So... childish my master, Fabius was right. Damian was right. He broke us and I could not even see it. I danced his tune now I have nothing."

Adelram looked up to Marthas who was shaking his head in disagreement "I don't think it's childish at all." Adelram blinked rapidly surprised the buzzing sound within his mind slowly started to vanish "Are you saying what I just want to hear?" Marthas stood up and looked at him "No I am not." Marthas paced the room "You just have not done enough."

Adelram grew angry "Enough!? I died Marthas! I died for it yet I got nothing!" He watched Marthas smile "You died yet now you have stopped?" Adelram clenched his hands "I lost my mark. It's like a part of me is gone." Marthas stopped pacing "Perhaps losing it is a test." Adelram looked up he said "What?"

Marthas repeated "Perhaps it's a test. To see truly what you can do and right now I suspect you are disappointing the dark prince." Marthas leaned down close to Adelram's face "Who care's if your father is treating this as a game? Who care's if he might be truly ignoring you? If we ravage a world and destroy their population? Yet he still casts his gaze elsewhere? We ravage two more."

Adelralm looked away "I have done that." Marthas grabbed his face to look directly at him "No you haven't! When you attacked Cortva you left before the real war came! We were drained fighting dark eldar raiders!" Marthas voice level changed almost to a whisper "You just exploited a weakened force, I had word an imperial guard regiment was coming." Adelram bit his lip "We did not have the for-"

Marthas let go of his face and turned away "Excuses! How do you know if you don't try!? Half measures won't get your wish! When we face Loyalist Astartes we should utterly crush them and send their souls screaming to the dark prince! If we face the imperial guard they should fear us to the point that they end their lives before we get there! If we face the sisters of battle!? We silence their hyms to the false emperor completely!"

Adelram felt drawn in by his words yet the hole in his hearts won't go away he still felt that same despair gripping him "Marthas. This despair this feeling. It won't go away it wei-" Marthas pointed at him "It should! It should weigh on you! That's telling you that you haven't done enough! It should always be there to tell you that your desire is not for filled yet!"

Adelram sat in silence that weight was still there. Yet he felt something else mixed in with the despair, Marthas turned back to him he held out his hand "Tell me. What will do you?" Adelram looked at his hand thinking. Marthas was right he might fail or stumble but why stop? He will only truly fail if he stops. Adelram stood up slowly as Adelram slowly reached for Marthas' hand the buzzing within his mind started to seem distant. Adelram grasped Marthas' hand.

Chapter 9

Entry 10970

We've been harrying both forces but there was a problem. The slave decline rate has been increasing dramtically in the last few weeks. (I like to keep track, no one else does because I don't want an event occuring where we run out and everything fall's to pieces. Due to our forces "needs".) The only time we can capture them is when we scout closer to the death guard and traitor territories. We capture imperials to take back to the compound. They get a choice join us or slavery until death. Many choose the slavery shockingly but many change their mind after a few days.
I listened in to the slaves talking and found that at night a shadow stalks them in the halls. I approached Marthas(Ever since gaining understanding and after some time of getting Silas to join us he allowed me to finally mention his name in my journal entries) I told him about the issue. We both had a good guess who it was.

So we waited in the area where slaves normally vanish. Marthas noted I should use myself as bait, I agreed. So I replaced my clothes and waited. Marthas was in a room next to me. I soon heard footsteps then out of the darkness of the hall came charging an Astartes, it was Silas. He tried to kill me he ran at me screaming that he needs to feel. That I should run and make the hunt interesting. I was wearing a hood so he could not see my face perhaps even if I was not wearing it he would still try to attack me anyway.

One thing he should be aware of is that I am no simple prey. This time I summoned strength from Meliva. We attacked him together as the fight began Marthas approached Silas from behind and grabbed him he began trashing. Screaming to let him continue the hunt.
I readied myself I nodded to Marthas to let him go Silas charged at me with both hands I pushed down. Silas slowed like a great weight was placed on him he soon fell to his knees. Then to his hands and eventually to the ground. He continued screaming yelling that he needs to kill me. I watched Marthas scratching his chin in contemplation. Eventually Jedrick arrived and Marthas requested that Jedrick should help him take Silas to his room. When I asked what he was going to do he simply told me that he just wants to talk to Silas. I did not question further since I trusted Marthas to handle it and most likely the decline rate on slaves should steady again.

Asriel landed at the edge of the compound ritual area, he set Isira down and attached a wristband to her wrist. Isira gazed at it "Quite an interesting ritual you put together." Asriel could tell she spoke in a condescending tone. He still disliked her but she is necessary. It's clear that in the short time she has served his lord directly he relies on her somewhat. Perhaps he would rely on her far more in this situation and possibly break him out of his despair if Marthas is not successful.

Asriel looked to Isira's feet, they looked bloodied and bruised for some reason she is slowly healing. Asriel walked over and picked her up again to her suprise she questioned him "I can walk myself." Asriel shook his head "Your feet. No reason to cause unesscary damage."
Oddly Asriel felt Isira gripping him tightly as she asked "Is it safe to walk around here?" Asriel looked around "Yes. this is largely our area of control there are snipers and scouts at various points in the area."
It took them a few minutes to reach the compound as they entered the courtyard many who spirited away from the ship explosion were not exactly pleased to see who Asriel bought in. Asriel did not care his lord would need her so she is here. He is quite sure she could protect herself but Asriel will make clear if anyone attempts anything he will end them.

Isira tapped him on the shoulder Asriel looked at her as they made their way here her blonde hair had patches of grey and she bore wrinkles they were all gone by the time they got back. He suspected her youth and looks are connected to her mental state. She smiled "Why are you staring at me?" Asriel turned away "It's not what you are thinking. I assume you want me to put you down?" Isira nodded.
Asriel gently placed her back on her feet. Asriel folded his arms "I assume you want to know where he is?" Isira turned to him and gave another smile. Asriel gestured upwards with his head "His room is on the second floor." Isira frowned "Aren't you going to give me a tour then?" Asriel grew confused "Why? I assume you can handle yourself."

Isira gave a coy grin as she walked over and held his arm "Well, you saved me and bought me here like a damsel in distress. Be a gentleman and give me a tour Asriel." Asriel sighed "Fine." Both of them walked into the apartment complex. Asriel could tell people were still staring.
Adelram sat with Marthas in his room, Marthas described his philosphy in more detail and Adelram knew it would be something they need in the future. Jedrick can handle the bulk of their forces but they need someone to produce and hone the elite. Marthas had the right mind set for that. Adelram also questioned Marthas on how exactly is he going to get stronger in a short time frame. Marthas simply told him they have to wait for Asriel's he has set everything in place.

Adelram still felt conflicted whenever it came to Asriel. He is still angry thinking on the past event further in the end to Asriel it was over a hundred years ago. Plus the fact he could not ignore what he has done here he can't deny it anymore. Adelram sighed "I will talk with him when he returns." Marthas nodded "You will not be disappointed. Asriel as prepared many materials." As Marthas said this Adelram heard a knock on his door.

Adelram grunted in annoyance. Marthas stared at him "You are not going to answer? You are our leader it could be something important." Adelram sighed as he got up and opened the door it was someone he did not expect to see. It was Isira clinging to Asriel's arm. Adelram got the distinct feeling that Asriel is annoyed going by his body language.

Isira let go of Asriel and barged into the room. She was beaming as she looked at him, as always Adelram could not understand her obsession with him. Adelram gestured to Asriel who was standing at the door "Are you not coming in?" Adelram could see Asriel standing still for a few seconds like a stone before he walked into the room.

Adelram closed the door he looked at Isira save the dirty clothes she looked exactly how he remebered her. Marthas stood up and approached Asriel raising an eyebrow "She was the errand?" Asriel nodded. Marthas stroked his chin "Still our lord is ready now." As he said this Adelram watched Asriel gaze at him for several moments as he said "I will get my things ready. My lord my room is on the fourth floor it's the one with tally marks on it." Asriel gave a bow and moved to leave
Isira folded her arms "Wait. There is something I want to talk about." Asriel stopped, Adelram raised his eyebrow "What about?" Adelram could see Isira was frowning. Isira spoke her voice firm "Asriel infiltrated Sebastian's camp. From what I have seen he could kill Sebastian given the opportunity. Why hasn't he done so?"

Marthas shook his head "Our lord has to defeat him. Not Asriel." Isira squinted her eyes and pointed at Marthas "I heard what they did to him. It's too much of a risk." Marthas scowled "What you want will make him weak! You are denying him the chance to better himself!" Isira scoffed at his anger "You are setting him up for slaughter!"

Adelram lisntened it would be the smart thing to do. Yet to do so felt wrong to him he voiced his thoughts "I will prepare myself to face Sebastian. That's what I will do." Adelram could see Isira was growing tense she pleaded "Please don't do this. I have seen what he can do." Adelram turned to Asriel "I meet you at your room." Asriel nodded and left.

Isira grit her teeth "After all this time... I can't allow this! I can't let you die!" The room began to fill with a strange heat the runes on Isira's body glowed brightly. Marthas readied his weapon, Adelram waved him back he walked towards Isira. Adelram raised his eyebrow "Why do you care so much?" Isira narrowed her eyes "I just do! I will stop you from doing this! I watched you die once already and now? You run straight into the slaughter again! You might not come back this time!"

Adelram coutined walking slowly towards her "No. This is not normal. This is not a normal obession. Even my captain had his share of admirars among his slaves but this is different." Adelram stopped in front of her "So would you harm me to stop me from doing what I deem correct?" Adelram could see she was trembling Isira cried out "You are always like this! You always think you know best!"
Adelram grew confused "What do you mean? I am always like this?" As Adelram said this the power she was generating died down. To his eyes she let something slip. Adelram pushed the matter further "Isira how do you know me? I recall when we found you, you refused to speak to my captain. No matter what he did to you. You wanted to speak with me why?"

In a rare moment he watched Isira slinking away in fear. Not the facade she plays up but true and utter terror. She did not want to meet his gaze she turned her head away slightly. Tears began rolling down her cheeks "After all I did. All I killed main and tortured to become like this. Nothing. I even dropped hints in the past of course you being an Astartes it would not even register."
Adelram confusion increased "The past? What past?" Isira gave a sad laugh "I even wrote your favourite book." As she said this it dawned on Adelram a sick realisation lining his stomach he shook his head "It's impossible. Sh-" Isira finished his sentence "Is dead? There is no way that she could be alive?"

Isira spread her arms wide "I gave so much to become like this. To be perfect for you of course I should of knew my love would forever be unrequited I am fine with that." Adelram was in disbelief but considering the nature of chaos it is possible. He looked at Isira she looked nothing like Moira. It is like night and day.

Adelram clenched his hands in frustration "You should of known better." Isira nodded "I know but I could not help it." Adelram creased his brow he sighed "What do you want me to call you then?" Isira smiled "What you prefer." Adelram nodded "Considering you changed your name I will stick with that."

Adelram could clearly see she was dissppointed she prepared herself but it's clear she wanted something that he could not give. It all made sense when Adelram put the events in the past together. A strange emotion began to fill his chest he was it relief? Or annoyance? Or Perhaps a mix of both? Not being able to see the signs even in the past. If he recognised her sooner might of things been different? If knew it was her would he have made different choices?

Isira grew silent in the end there is one thing he could recognise clearly and it's something which is obvious to everyone. Something that he could at least acknowledge but he knows she would want to hear it from him. He leaned down and whispered into her ear "I cannot give what you want but you are beautiful." Adelram leaned back.

There was a mix of shock and geniue happiness lining her features she smiled gently as she said "Thank you." Adelram sighed "Now I have things to do. Do you have any further protests?" Isira shook her head. She simply gave a small bow and left the room in silence.
Adelram folded his arms and turned to Marthas who was impassive who watched the whole situation unfold Adelram shook his head in annoyance "Humans." Marthas nodded in agreement. "Indeed."

Mhmmm. Plot twist. Either way I hope adelram fights Sebastian soon. It’ll be a good fight.

Intermission chapter 2

entry 10977

Apologies this is another long entry I have seen Silas exiting and leaving Marthas' room the slaves decline rate has steadied itself. I wonder what Marthas did Silas still acted in a similar manner but now he seemed more... focused? In battle each of his moves seemed more practised and precise. I have even seen him practising with his blade for hours on end. He even asked me to help him train and not to hold back. He asked the same with Jedrick. Jedrick soon questioned Silas. I was in earshot what I gathered is that Marthas convinced Silas that he has been dealing with his excess in the wrong way this whole time. Jedrick grew annoyed wondering what exactly he said to change his mind considering his personality. Silas simply shrugged and said Marthas' vision of slaanesh is really interesting and he wants to follow that.

The thing that bothered me about the conversation is why hasn't many realized this sooner? Why did it take Marthas setting up his cult for them to actually think about something like this? That they might be doing something wrong?

I approached Marthas on the subject. He simply told me they did not think about it because no one told them otherwise or would dare to. I finally understood I mentioned that the old dark Apostle Ivan essnetinally said it's okay to gratify yourself on anything and he let the Astartes do what they want. Very few were interested in his books or even what he had to say but all they wanted largely is to wallow in the hendonism Ivan provided.

Marthas said Ivan was incorrect in handling them that way since a dark apostle like a chaplain is meant to look after the mind and spiritual health of the Astartes they are grouped with instead of the emperor it was to the dark gods or in our case slaanesh. (I am not even sure if that's the actual role of a dark apostle. I have only Ivan to go by. I just think he is projecting what occurs with the loyalist Astartes to us. In the end it's working so I don't really care.)

Marthas then asked me to describe their place of worship.

I told him it was essetinally a cathedral with small booths. I never looked inside but screams came from them. At the Altar there was a giant Statue of what I presumed to be Slaanesh. Marthas then asked me what the statue looked like thinking back did I find it beautiful? I thought back to the statue and I told him honestly I did find it beautiful. He nodded and essentially he made the point that war can also be beautiful and there can be joy within it.

Marthas then touched my head gently as he said "See what I saw and understand."

He began to speak of his dreams and visions that occurred when he left for a few days the scenery filled my mind as his spoke this is his word by word of it "I heard small chimes in the background it was like music it was mixed with the rolling and screaming of souls. I walked a dusty battle field I could also hear the sound of people crying out for help. The laughter of the children of the dark prince as they danced and sang across the battlefield the fear, longing and irrationality gripping those gazing upon glory. Each cut was perfect. Each kill refined. There were those screaming in prayer as they offered themselves up to be devoured by them. A figure soon stepped forth in shimmering sliver armour. She had a purple aura and long flowing blonde hair. She moved with grace, he carried himself as the epitome of perfect general, swordsman and strategist. All basked in her glory. Her beauty was not the kind where one would lust for her but the sort that bought a tear down your cheek. You wanted to be like her. You wanted to be him. Just gazing at such a being made you realize how inaquiquite you are and that you should feel that way you have seen perfection why not try to reach it?"

After that he finally moved his hand away from my head I oddly found a tear rolling down my cheek.(Small note I have not cried a single tear in one hundred years. Perhaps it's just my body reacting to his vision?) Meliva was shivering I could tell I felt her moving rapidly. I asked Marthas where he got this vision? He told me it was during his outing when he vanished a few days after my story. He was outnumbered by death guard and bleeding out.

He was behind cover being shot at. He detailed how his mind raced, with possible solutions. He was excited even. The pain gripping him in the middle of the situation honed his mind and dealing with the fact he was bleeding out. He made note that's when the vision happened. I tried to point out that it might be simple delirium since he was dying and not a vision from a god(or goddess) itself.

He then pointed out to me that after the vision he was full of vigour. His wounds were gone and everything was moving in slow motion. He could hear as the death guard moved their finger to the trigger of their bolters. The small servo's in the power armour moving with the motion. As his sweat dropped from his brow and hit the road.

Bullets were trailing slowly past him. As he said that I asked him is that how it is for him all the time? He said no, his senses were now far more acute but it's mainly during battle when he truly wants to defeat someone that it occurs also killing people with Eligos increases his speed further. I guessed considering he is here now that the death guard did not survive the encounter.

I also raised the point that how does he know it's the correct way to do things? There are many Apostles of slaanesh having their own version of worship. He nodded in agreement he said that the decline rate of slaves steadied it did not stop. People torment and inflict their desires upon them still but they now seek or prefer to do it on the enemies of war after they defeat. He said "enjoying" the spoils of war is another important aspect of it.

As he said this I did notice after battle ends sometimes some of our men or even Silas drag some of our enemies away even the dead ones. I had no interest I just went to the truck to check my weapons and ready myself for the next battle and as long as the slaves that were are "used" at the compound are replaced in a timely fashion I did not voice any complaint.

My curiosity satisfied I moved to leave. Marthas did stop me though he asked which image of slaanesh I prefered the one in the cathedral or the one he showed? I did not answer at that time but now? After thinking about it? I think the one Marthas showed me look far more... graceful and beautiful. Something I did not want to admit to him I felt a deep sense of love and adoration. Meliva chided me that I should feel that way about the dark prince all the time.

lliu wrote:
Mhmmm. Plot twist. Either way I hope adelram fights Sebastian soon. It’ll be a good fight.

I hope people will like what I am planning for it. Adelram's Journey to it I think it's going to be interesting.

Chapter 10

Adelram stood in front of Asriel's room door. There were tally marks all over the door, none of the other doors bared them. Adelram turned the handle and opened the door. As he stepped in Asriel's room his room seemed like a armoury mixed with a library. The room was quite large as well. There were guns and blades lining the walls there were stacks of books on a desk. Books lined on book shelves. He also had a bed in the corner. Adelram could see a closet next to the bed. Around the closet simply brushing his thoughts against it he could detect a lament of pain and suffering. It strained his mind looking at it for too long. He wondered what Asriel has placed within it.

Adelram diverted his eyes to Asriel who was in discussion with a tech priest surrounded by servitors. Adelram wondered how he got one to join them. Adelram walked forward, Asriel turned to him and bowed slightly "My lord. I had Caius come here to remove your old gear" Adelram raised his eyebrow "You mean fix?"

Asriel shook his head "I have new armour prepared for you. It's not ready yet but for the first part of what I am going to show you It will be helpful if you are not wearing your power armour." Adelram looked to his legs, they still creaked when he walked and he had to walk slowly as well.
Adelram nodded "Very well." The tech priest Caius approached with servitors he was quite large he almost reached his face. Long tendrils that seemed to be attached to his body began picking over his armour and scanned various sections of it. He stopped and a long abnormal sound came from under his hood.

Adelram furrowed his brows "What is he saying?" Asriel removed his skull helmet and smiled "He is swearing in binary." Adelram responded "May I ask why?" Asriel shrugged "I can't fully understand it." Adelram frowned "I wish for you to speak plainly Tech priest Caius."
The abnormal sound stopped and a voice devoid of emotion came from under the red hood "Astartes Adelram. I find your abuse of your power armour to be horrific." Adelram sighed "I had my legs crushed." The tech priest shook his head "Not only that. When was the last time your armour received sufficient maintenance?"

Adelram scowled "Are you going to take off my armour or not? I am getting a new one anyway." Caius went back to his work in silence. To Adelram's suprise the armour was removed in blinding speed he could not remember the last time he had a tech priest do this. The servitors were carrying the various sections of his power armour.

Caius nodded "These parts are sufficient. They can be used to finish the project." Caius walked out of Asriel's room with servitors in tow. Asriel walked over and handed him a long hoodded black robe.

Adelram put it on. He looked around the room again and he now realised the walls also had tally marks on them as well. Even the floor. Adelram gestured at them "Why do you have tally marks all around your room? Even on your door?" Asriel looked up to him "Counting the days. I eventually lost count anyway." Adelram realised again he has been waiting a hundred years.

Asriel sat on the floor his cloak wrapping itself around him slightly, Adelram followed suit. Asriel began to explain "My lord. I want to ask do you understand the difference between using your psychic powers and using sorcery?"

Adelram thought for a moment he then said "I thought I was using sorcery?" Asriel tapped his chin "Not really. You were just using the raw power of a psyker largely." Adelram squinted his eyes "What of summoning neverborn?" Asriel folded his arms "It is sorcery of a sort but even those who are not even a pskyer can summon neverborn my lord."

Asriel smiled "What I am going to show is you wielding your very corruption to destroy your enemies. The warp itself mixed with the corruption of your very being." Adelram held his shoulder "Yet I lost my mark." Asriel nodded "Yes but your body is still saturated with the touch of slaanesh."
Asriel got up and grabbed a book from the shelf and sat back down again Adelram stroked his chin "Isira from what I have learned could teach me a few things. She seems to have been at this far longer than you have." Asriel opened the book he looked up "She has lived longer than me but has not studied this more than me. She can do sorcery but not to the levels I have learned. Meliva also helped as well."

Adelram looked at Asriel it was strange to see him so sure of himself after all he did to him as well. Adelram eyed Asriel "What is that book?" Asriel smiled "Runes and prayers of power we are going to tattoo to your body." Adelram rubbed his neck "Is this nesscary?" Asriel nodded "It is. Sorcerers tend to brand their skin and armour to use more power. I am sure you have noticed. Sorcerer's chanting as they cast their sorcery, wearing charms or have runes engraved on their armour. Your mind alone is not enough to wield the full power of the warp."

Adelram watched Asriel remove his gauntlet. He could see the runes of his skin were now different many of the words were reorganised and there was a snake like tattoo around his wrists. Adelram became concerned "You changed them? Won't Meliva take control?" Asriel shook his head "No. We have come to a strange agreement or working relationship in other words."

Asriel soon sat up and moved next to him and showed him the book he flicked through the pages "Certain prayers of power work better with certain psychic powers. Or certain words have meaning to different people. I assume you studied the dark tongue my lord?" Adelram nodded "I have. I had to in order to craft something I used in the past."

Asriel then handed him the book, Adelram looked through it and stopped on one page it had a strange prayer or chant for power the page also had art of two snakes intertwining. It was like a prayer to the dark prince for him to look upon them and fill them with power. To feel the esctacy of his touch and to unleash it on his foes. Adelram pointed to the page "That one."

Asriel nodded he got up again and walked over to the desk he opened the lower drawer. Adelram noted it was quite large. Asriel pulled out a sliver box and moved to sit next to him again. He lay the box to his side and pulled out a pen. There was a black ink cartridge in the box. Asriel picked it up and unscrewed the top and looked at it and frowned.

He stared at him Adelram asked "What's the matter?" Asriel sighed "I need an important component I will be a few minutes." Asriel got up and left the room.

Adelram continued reading the the book. It was quite fascinating and he recalled how the air changed when Isira summoned her psychic powers. He wondered if it felt any different? To use his powers along with the brands? Adelram continued reading for about 10 to 20 more minutes. Adelram's eyes soon went to the closet. Adelram left the book on the floor and got up he walked over the closet the closer he walked to it the sensation he felt before came back it was far stronger.

He held the handle and opened it. As he did so bones, tons of human bones poured out. Skulls, finger bones and even shin bones. Rib cages could be seen in the pile he guessed that every part of the human body was there. Adelram picked up a skull and gazed into it's empty eye sockets the longer he gazed at the skull flashes appeared in his mind. He could see an inquisitor a female inquisitor pointing. Asriel was on his knees his back was on fire. He could see burning black feathers bellowing around Asriel and the inquisitor.
Asriel spat a string of words the shadows themselves assaulted the inquisitor. As the shadow tendrils touched her it tore away chunks of flesh. Holding the skull Adelram could sense her agony and pain. Adelram could also feel Asriel's joy at watching her being maimed and tortured through the shadow tendrils.

The vision vanished as Adelram heard a door opening and closing. Asriel returned he held a jar full of blood he also held a dripper. Adelram looked at him he was staring and soon he cast his head down in embarrassment "My lord. My things.. I.." Adelram looked at the skull again "It's a nice collection. I can see why you keep the body parts of people you kill. So many fond memories I guess."

Asriel looked up to him and smiled "Yes. So many fond memories. The skull you are holding belonged to the inquisitor that burned my wings. I really liked them I maimed her and used her body and blood in the making of my cloak. It's the least I could do for her."

Adelram could see he was almost smiling like a child as he spoke. Now he is reminded of his twisted sense of innocence. Adelram had to be honest to himself he found it rather endearing whenever he acted so. He had no idea why.

Adelram looked to the skull again "I see." Adelram packed the bones back into the closet and moved to sit down in the spot where he left the book.

Adelram coughed slightly "What are you going to do with that?" Asriel sat back down next to him. He opened the black ink cartridge again he looked up to him "I am going to add blood to the mix. It's the condition that I aquired the blood that is the most important. I got it from a slave as I slowly killed him."

Adelram mumured "I see." He watched Asriel placed the jar on the ground next to him he opened the jar of blood and drained some of the contents with the dripper. He placed the dripper near the open ink cartridge, Asriel squeezed it lightly to release a few drops. Asriel closed the black ink cartridge and gave the cartridge a small shake before putting it into the pen. Asriel held up the pen "Where do you want it my lord?" Adelram removed his robe slightly "My right bicep.

Asriel nodded and got to work. Adelram found the sensation odd, it tingled yet it felt good at the same time. Adelram watched Asriel transcribe the contents of the page on his bicep along with the art of the intertwining snakes.

It took Asriel several hours but it was eventually done. As the pen left his skin the sensation vanished the joy vanished. Adelram thought he would gain a surge of power or some strange understanding "Asriel I fe-" In that instant the tattoo flared up the words shone with purple eldtricth flame. Adelram felt his nerves being caressed. He gripped his arm and gritted his teeth.

Asriel whispered "Focus my lord." Adelram closed his eyes the euphoria he was feeling. It was maddening almost. Adelram tried to centre his thoughts he took heavy breath's as the flames on the tattoo died down.

Adelram could still feel the sensation somewhat in his body but he could deal with it. Adelram looked at him "Is that it?" Asriel shook his head "No. We have a lot more to go. I am hoping to cover your whole back and do the other arm. Also perhaps even your legs." Adelram frowned.
Adelram felt exhausted. Which was rare for an Astartes each tattoo placed on his body he was overloaded with sensation. Oddly he wanted to rest. The tattoo on his back was the worst. It was like a grand prayer of torment, pleasure and song and he felt it. As Asriel wrote each syllable he heard the prayer and felt the torment and pleasure that went with it. At the end it was like a soothing song.

As Adelram returned to his room on the second floor he found there was now a large bed with a note. He picked it up and found it was from Lily the note said several of the bridge crew put it together for his return.

Adelram sat down on the bed. He rarely if ever slept but this time he felt he needed it. He lay on the bed it was strange to be out of his armour. He lifted his robes slightly to look at the tattoo's it took so many hours to do. If he recalled correctly with tattoo's you are meant to feel sore but he felt no such sensation. It was the opposite and it was tiring. He wanted to rest yet part of him did not want to.
Adelram sighed if this what it took to get what he wants and to defeat Sebastian so be it.

Chapter 11

entry 10988

Whatever Marthas is doing to Silas he has become incredibly reliable. He still has his same personality but when watching him in battle. Instead of looking like a bored hunter he was like a blade a sharpened blade that hacked and sliced apart any that got in his way. It was amazing to see.
There was not a single wasted movement when he attacked someone. At times he does leave the enemy and let them run and like a predator he takes them down slowly. I assume this is his "spoils" of war.

The times I visit Marthas I see him working on a weapon. The frame was there it was a spiked censer on a long handle. He called me into his room. He said that Caius designed it for him but he needs my help for the spark. He wants to replicate the song and the laughter and roaring of the neverborn from his vision.

I began thinking. I asked him to hand me his weapon I drew a knife from my belt. I made sure not to place too much power within it I don't want it to explode in my hand. I began carving runes on the censer to house the neverborn. I tried to image the neverborn from the vision I picture their form. Their face. Their screams and their song. I rested the weapon on the wall and began chanting.

I captured the image of one of the neverborn in my mind. One of them was a herald(At least I think it was), I questioned Meliva for the name(It took some convincing she was quite reluctant). As she spoke the words my nose and eyes began to bleed. I summoned the neverborn and diverted it into the weapon along with a ritual chant. The censer began to glow a strange smoke surrounded the censer there were several loud chimes and the laughter of neverborn emitting from it.

It was thrashing within the weapon I continued my chant. It was hard to hold, Marthas walked up to his weapon suddenly and began whispering to it. I could not make out what he was saying due to the ritual. After a moment of Marthas whispering to his weapon the thrashing stopped suddenly.
A sweet song came from the weapon along with the scent of perfume. I watched Marthas smile as he named his weapon "Eligos."

Adelram sat at the edge of his bed, he found it hard to sleep whenever he closed his eyes he would see a snake moving closely towards him. He could sense that the snake was dangerous yet he wanted to approach it. He wondered what it was. He wanted to know it's bite and venom.
Adelram shook his head trying to drive that image away he looked out of the window of his room and could see it was night. He sat up and left his room the apartment block was abnormally quiet the halls were empty. After a few moments he caught the sound of screams it was not ear crushly loud like Sebastian's camp.

This was the kind of scream that sent a chill down one's spine, Adelram felt his nerves standing on end. When he walked the halls of the 2nd floor the sound did not stop oddly he did not feel disgusted like how he felt in Sebastian's camp. What was happening here filled him with a strange curiosity. The sound was.. pleasant.

As Adelram took another step he felt a blade at his neck. After a second it was removed. Adelram turned to see who it was, it was Silas. Adelram wondered how he did that considering he is in power armour.
Silas was also not wearing his jump pack. Adelram could see he was holding a human sized power sword in his other hand. Adelram raised his eyebrow "So are you hunting?" Silas shook his head "Practising." Adelram looked at Silas his body language was different he carried himself as a bladesman instead of a bored hunter.

Adelram questioned him "Did you place that power blade at my neck?" Silas looked to the deactivated power sword then up to him "No. It was my combat knife you should be more careful I had my blade at your neck." Adelram gave it a thought if it was an enemy that could of been dangerous he took heed of Silas's words. Adelram folded his arms "So what do you do with the power sword?" Silas held the blade and gazed at it again before lowering it "I give the power sword to the slaves." Adelram's eyes went wide "Why do you give a power sword to slaves?" Silas chuckled "Well for them to attempt to kill me of course."

Adelram raised his eyebrow "May I ask why?" Silas nodded "Well as I said I was practising. I approach slaves and make them an offer if they can bloody me with it they are free to leave. I also handicap myself by sticking with my combat knife." Adelram wondered what happened during the time they were separated also the fact he has not yawned once during this conversation.

Adelram said "So what do you do to the slaves who refuse?" Silas casually shrugged "I leave them alone of course." When he said this it shocked Adelram as he said "Really? You leave them alone? Also you are an Astartes a slave can't easily kill you even with a power sword." Silas nodded "Yes I do. Now you would think a slave would not be able to kill me? What I found interesting Adelram is how hard humans fight when they have a shot for freedom. They do the unpredictable their survival instinct kicks in. I enjoy seeing and reacting to what they do. Who knows if something similar might happen on the battlefield."

Adelram was puzzled again he wondered again who could of done this to Silas there was also joy in his voice as he spoke. How he talked he seemed far more reliable for some reason. Adelram had a good guess who did it, Adelram folded his arms "I see. So what happens to the slaves who fail to harm you?"

Silas twirled the power blade "Well it's until first blood. Some tend to die others do not. The ones that die I try to replace. The ones that don't are still slaves." Adelram thought on what he just said the fact that letting slaves go is actually a risk "The slaves that do bloody you. Isn't letting them go a security risk?" Silas stopped twirling the power blade "Not really. Since without the charm you can't find this place also the fact that you would not survive a day beyond these walls."

Adelram pushed the point further "It's still a risk." Silas responded "If the ones that bloody me leave." Adelram furrowed his brows "If the ones that bloody you leave?" Silas nodded "Indeed. Oddly they stick around and follow me about. I have no idea why."
Adelram looked around Silas "Where are your personal servants then?" Silas chuckled and pointed upwards "You mean my personal slaves? You are way to polite sometimes, If you must know they are sleeping in my room." Adelram laughed slightly, the thought that Silas actually had personal servants "So what do they do for you then?" Silas folded his arms "Well they largely clean my room I have taught one how to maintain my gear."

As Silas said this a person came walking down the stairs. It was Asriel, Adelram called out "Where are you going?" Asriel stopped "Out my lord." Adelram walked towards him and looked directly into the blue eyes of the skull helmet "Out where?" Asriel looked up to him "To the inner city. I am going to check or possibly collect something."

As Adelram was in conversation Silas apporached when he spoke his voice was joyful he sheathed the power sword as he walked "Asriel. Why leave so soon? How about a round?" Adelram could see Silas was getting into battlestance.
Before Asriel could say something Silas drew his power blade it whipped out in Arc. Adelram moved back. Asriel drew his two handed blade it ignited with fire.

As they clashed they steadily moved into the hall. Adelram watched the bout unfolding Asriel was diverting Silas strikes or dodging them out right. Adelram could see the skull helmet was twisting and changing the teeth turning into fangs. The eye lenses now blinking as if it was a face.
Silas then swung his blade sideways it clashed with Asriel's sword knocking it out of his hands. Silas laughed "This is my win!" He bought his blade downwards, Asriel twisted in a swift motion to Silas's right like a flash a knife flicked out and stabbed into the gap of Silas power armour. The knife glew as it was lodged in Silas's arm. Silas lowered his stance and sighed.

Asriel picked up his sword, Silas pointed at the knife in his arm "I hate these things." Asriel shrugged "I got first blood." Silas sighed again "Mind pulling it out? I don't know if it will explode if I touch it." Adelram watched Asriel pull out the knife a small amount of blood dripping to the ground the glow surrounding the knife died down as Asriel removed it.

Silas stretched "That was enjoyable." Asriel shook his head "You do this every time you see me." Silas removed his helmet. Adelram wondered if Silas's face as changed since the last time he had seen him Silas had short white hair with blue eyes he also had a snake tattoo coiling on his right eye with a tiny amount of scripture with it. Save the scripture he has not changed a single bit Silas still had quite a young looking face also. Silas had a large grin on his face "Well I am done for the night."

Silas sheathed his sword and walked up the stairs he did not utter another word as he walked past.

Adelram looked at Asriel sheathing his blade he turned to him the helmet was now normal. Still when Adelram looked at him he was conflicted watching what just happened with everything else he has done he then asked him a question "Did you truly lose control in the past?"
Asriel answered his question after a moment of silence "I did lose control. I killed them I also enjoyed it." Adelram clinched his fists in anger "I recall on the truck Marthas was about to say more. Do you have anything else to say?" Asriel flatly said "No I do not." Adelram breathed in then out and walked towards Asriel he leaned down slightly close to his face "I order you to tell me everything." He could see Asriel looking away slightly as he gave the order.
Adelram narrowed his eyes "Look at me." Asriel turned to face him Adelram nodded "Now are you going to disobey me Asriel?" Adelram caught the sound of a small whimper under the helmet Adelram spoke again with a bit more force in his voice "You belong to me. You are my servant. I gave you an order."

Asriel finally spoke "My lord. There was a plot." Adelram finally leaned back and folded his arms "A plot?" Asriel nodded "To kill me. Amethyst was not aware of it but she thought the plot was to remove the neverborn from me. The ring master was Agoston." Adelram held his chin "So they plotted to kill you and Amethyst was the dupe. I doubt that they took you on directly." Asriel nodded "Amethyst used my journal to bring me to her room. They prepared a circle I could not move and the pain the circle placed on my body was unbearable."

Asriel moved to the wall and leaned back sighing "They bought me to the lower levels of the ship. Agoston revealed multiple parties were involved in the plot. This plot occured due to jealously." Adelram gave a small laugh "Agoston could not be that foolish he would of been found out." Adelram watched Asriel pull out a knife he looked it over as he spoke "They planned for that. Most likely Isira was involved in teaching them the means to protect their minds. You would be suspcious but you would have no clear culprit and he banked on the fact you would not punish everyone."
Adelram walked next to Asriel and leaned on the wall he looked down to him "So you killed them for it?" Asriel shook his head "No. That is not the reason." Adelram responded his voice firm "What was the reason?" Adelram could hear a small amount of anger lining Asriel voice he could feel the neverborn rising as he said "Agoston began tearing pages out of my journal. Your words. Lord Jedrick's words. That was unforgivable. They held me with a circle but I tore it apart. I wanted to kill them for what they did. Ameythst was complicit, she betrayed you also."

Adelram shook his head "Amethyst would never do that." Asriel turned to him his skull changing again shifting into a daemonic scowl "She wanted Meliva removed. She wanted things to change back. She wanted everyone to go back." Adelram thought on his words so the dinner and the camp did not exactly work. It just made her chief excess greater.

Adelram sighed in annoyance "Why did you not mention all of this when I asked you before? Also the fact that Isira might of been involved?" Asriel faced foward again he was calming down as he spoke "It does not change the fact I failed your directive. After I killed their hired guns I could of left both of them alive. Yet I did not. I could not forgive them so I cut loose. In the end I still failed you."

As he said this Adelram creased his brow he did not know what to think he should be pleased that even if he done such an act with how loyal he truly is. It annoyed him that he could of pressed the matter further in the past. The fact it's still surprising to him that he followed an order not to speak a word for one hundred years.

Adelram gave another heavy sigh "Asriel go do whatever you are going to do." Asriel stood upright "You don't want to know the details?" Adelram shook his head "You know what you are doing." Adelram could see Asriel casting his head down slightly then up "I see. I am not too sure how long I will be gone for." Asriel moved to leave but stopped "I have a practice Area prepared for you. So you can get used to the brands on your body. Just ask Marthas he knows where it is. His room is on the fourth floor it has a daemonette face on it."
Adelram looked at the stairs "Fourth floor, daemonette head. I see." Asriel nodded and continued walking down. Adelram waited until Asriel's foot steps became distant he looked upwards as he said to himself "Times wasting."

Adelram slowly walked up the stairs to the fourth floor. As he reached the fourth floor one thing he has now noticed he could detect or even see neverborn fading in and out nipping at certain doors. He looked down the hall to Asriel's door he could see wisps trailing against it as he walked down the hall looking for Marthas' door he soon stopped at a red door. It had a sliver daemonette head on the front of it.

One other thing he noticed is that the door was resized to accommodate the frame of an Astartes. He might had to have the same done to his door since it's quite annoying having to bend down slightly.
As Adelram reached the door wisps erupted from it encircling the sliver head of the daemonette. Purple and pink lights hissing and snapping at the door. Adelram knew them to be such small specks of the servants of the dark prince he knocked on the door casually. As he did so the wisps circled his arm nipping at him. He could dismiss them with a thought but he allowed it the sensation is oddly pleasant to him.

The door slowly opened and the wisps darted away Adelram wondered what caused it. There was a man wearing a black robe his face obscured by his hood his voice was hoarse "My lord. Lord Marthas is expecting you." The robed man opened the door wider, Adelram stepped in.

Nice. It's almost your casual family with different people going out. With slaanesh. And weapons. And demon men.

Chapter 12

entry 10999

Right now things are progressing smoothly. I had various eyes and ears in the inner city and someone who has knowledge of the noble houses and their politics. Right now from my understanding there are three major noble houses left vying to be plantery governor after the conflict is done. Considering the state of the galaxy the imperium cannot exactly "let go" of planets anymore. It's clear one is influenced by Sebastian and another by the nurglites. The third is "unknowingly" on our side. Still I did not help this family get to that position due to information I am largely thinking about the future when we get off world.

Now how I got my hands on this noble family? Well Meliva is partly to blame in this regard I was visiting a pleasure house.(I have no interest in anything there. I was in the location to kill someone.) So I hired the pleasure woman he normally sees. To understand how often he comes here to know his movements.

When she wanted to know my request I simply told her I spent good money to simply speak to her. She sighed in relief when I said that. I wanted to know about a certain client she was tight lipped on the subject of course fearing for her life. Meliva then told me through her I can make a pact of sorts or "agreement" to turn her life around give her an incentive to speak. At that time the term on the pact is 70 years. After the 70 years are up I can collect "payment". I agreed with Meliva's reasoning. I told the pleasure woman that there are things I can do to ensure she gets out of this situation a 70 year term of for filling her desires. After the 70 years are up I will collect payment.(Meliva grew angry at me mentioning the payment part since it might effect her decision to agree with it. I disagreed I prefer if she knows the full details of the pact or "agreement" if you prefer. I tend to find people more often do what you want when you are more "truthful" with them.)

Still Her eyes lit up like the sun itself yet she was hesistant. I pressed further telling her does she wish to serve in a pleasure house forever? To be used and eventually cast aside by a bored crimelord or gangster? She soon agreed.

Meliva told me whisper the words into her ear and ask her if she is agrees. She reacted oddly most likely due to me speaking dark tongue into her ear.

I then left her with an extra tip telling her that I will come back later. Few days later I find that she has quit her job. She now has a new apartment and running a small business to my disblief. She was then more than willing to speak of the target.(I soon killed him after a few days)
To add further her business boomed and she soon became minor nobility. She invested her earnings into the poor and downtrodden. Yet this bought enemies jealous nobles who wanted to see her dead. Meliva then tells me I am obligated to protect her due to the pact. Since we share the same body.(I wish she told me this in the past. I was quite annoyed and all she did was laugh.)So I elimiated each threat. Yet what I found underneath the kind hearted noble with a charitable heart she was filled with vice. Was it due to the pact? Or was she always like that? I had no idea.

She eventually passed away and due to her hedonism she had three progeny. One was filled with lust she had the beauty to go with it. Another was consumed with gluttoney he was huge barely able to move. Yet both were loved by their people. The Child of lust invited men and women to "strange" social gatherings. The child of glutonney spread food to everyone he can see and he was loved for it even the poor ate well.

Shockingly the inquisitors investigated both and found nothing. I did not even have to intervene. The most dangerous and the smartest was the youngest. I will call him the child of pride. He gave everything to the people. I have met him several times actually he is also nice to speak to as well. Still I can see underneath all of that he may not realize it but he is doing all of this due to the joy of being adored. The joy of being praised and loved. He deep down knows he is the best sibling but hides it well even unintentionally.

Even so the child of lust and gluttony grew jealous. (Eventually the war came in and as time passed things got serious. The child of pride did not lift a finger to harm both of them. He loved both of his siblings dearly.)

Still they moved to kill him, I at the time had no idea how to deal with the situation due to the pact. Yet one day both vanished. I assumed the child of pride killed them but Meliva hinted other wise. I suspect it was one of the houses influenced by Sebastian or the nurglites who did the deed. The only reason why I think they did this is due to the fact that possibly they view the child of pride to be weak. In the end it does not matter the plan is going to move soon. The 70 year term is ending in "soon" and I plan to collect on that.

Adelram entered the room there was a person wearing a black robe sitting in front of Marthas a he was looking at a map. The man who opened the door soon sat next to the person with the black robe.

Adelram looked around the room there were censers hanging from the ceiling and walls and book shelves full of books. At both ends of the room. The most odd thing about the room there is a soft song being sang in the room. He wondered where it was coming from Adelram searched the room eventually laying eyes on Eligos rested on the wall. He could sense the song coming from there.

Marthas eventually looked up "You are here Lord Adelram. Please sit." The two robed servants moved apart. Adelram sat in the middle.
Adelram folded his arms "Who are these two?" Adelram gestured his head to the two robed people. He knew one to be a man. Marthas soon smiled "Both of them are my helpers. The one who answered the door is Naberius Naberius nodded "I am pleased to meet you Lord Adelram. Asriel and Marthas speaks so fondly of you." Adelram could tell right away this man was dangerous somehow.

Marthas gestured his hand to the unknown the robed person their hood was pulled down tightly "This is Sitri." Sitri lifted their hood slightly Adelram could tell that she is a woman and she had fair skin. Well to his eyes she is a woman but something felt off looking at her made him feel uncomfortable. He did not like it she smiled it sent a shiver down his spine.

Marthas frowned "Now, Now Sitri you promised to only do it to people in battle." She bent her head down slightly her voice still did not break the feeling it made it worse "Apologies, my lord. I only get to talk to you and Asriel after all."

Adelram raised his eyebrow at Marthas "Where did you acquire both of these "helpers"?" Marthas chuckled "Does it matter? These two have told me they walked the realm of slaanesh and returned. They came to us one day somehow getting past the ritual." Adelram narrowed his eyes "You trust them?" Marthas held his chin "I trust they are doing the will of the dark prince."

Adelram then looked to the map "What are you looking at the map for?" Marthas placed the map in front of him it was the map of the city. Marthas pointed at two circles "These circles drawn on the map show the location and control areas of the death guard and Sebastian's forces. The death guard are the green circle and Sebastian is the purple circle."

Marthas pointed his finger at the middle circle "This is the imperial control zone. They have two gates north and south. There is a wall built around the inner city. The wall is nothing compared to what we faced on cadia. It looks far more make shift and they have several squads of guardsmen 24/7 watching and patrolling the edge of their control zone."

Marthas moved his hand down the map to a small black circle "This is us. We are based south of the inner city. Sebastian is based at the east and Deathguard to the west. Death guard, Imperials and Sebastian's forces clash mainly at the north gate of the city."

Adelram pointed to the empty north "So there is nothing there save the clashing forces?" Marthas nodded "To my knowledge yes. There is nothing else there." Marthas picked up the map and stood up he placed the map on an empty space on the bookshelf. Marthas sat back down again but this time he took Eligos from the wall before he did so.

He rested it upwards the purple mist bellowing out of his weapon. Marthas smiled to Adelram it was unnatural seeing Marthas smile and when he did so he had someting to say he said "So Asriel told you to see me?" Adelram nodded "To get used to the brands. I-" Naberius coughed interrupting Adelram to his annoyance he even spoke over him "We could do it that way. Yet will that truly gain the results you want Lord Adelram?"

Adelram turned to Naberius his voice firm "Don't interrupt me." Naberius hackles "Apologies. I was just wondering if you want to do it the easy way? Would it get you what you desire? " Sitri laughed it unsettled Adelram, to him Sitri speaking a whole sentence made him feel unbalanced? That was the only word he could put to it "I agree with Naberius our lord needs... full immersion. My lord do you want to embrace the dark prince fully? You still reek of the maggot."

Adelram frowned slightly he raised one of his hands slightly it glowed "Marthas do I need to tell you to reprimand your servants for speaking to me that way?" Marthas shrugged "I agree with them. They are not my servants Adelram but my helpers." Adelram could see both were unfazed by the power he was displaying Naberius lifted his hood slightly he gazed directly at him. His face looked slightly aged, his skin looked tanned in colouration. Naberius had a grey beard his eyes. His eyes looked at him like he was a child they were blue like Asriel's. Adelram knew for sure in that moment these two were truly dangerous he lowered his hand.

Naberius smiled "Why are you upset my lord? You know what your desire is? Don't you want to achieve it?" Adelram ground his teeth slightly "Do you always talk in rhetoric Naberius? What are you trying to convince me of?" Marthas chuckled "Now Lord Adelram. Naberius is just looking out for your best interests." Adelram scowled "Both of your helpers are annoying Marthas." Marthas shrugged "What he is trying to say is how far will you go to achieve what you want? Before you said you are ready to follow the path of your desire but are you truly ready? As Sitri said you still smell of the plague god."

Sitri laughed again as she leaned her body on his lap slightly to Adelram's anger his normal reaction would be to violently push her off yet he could not when he looked at her face. In his heart she looked like a woman but in his head. In his head he had no idea what to think. she began speaking slowly "He needs full immersion..."

Adelram grew frustrated "Speak plainly! I have no interest in the plague god anymore. I am ready to grow further so I can take back whats mine." Marthas shook his head "More words. Tell me Adelram. Give me an answer do you want to put your desire to the test?"
Adelram looked to his legs now healed "I am." Marthas smiled again "Very well. Listen to the song with your mind and soul. Close your eyes." Sitri leaned back and placed her hood back on.

Adelram closed his eyes focusing on the song coming from Marthas's daemon weapon. Adelram felt himself being drawn in by the music. It was pleasant soon underneath the song he heard the lament and screams of the dying. The sound was similar to his time moving through the warp.
Adelram soon began to hear the buzzing of flies whispering in his mind "No! It's a lie! Don't listen!" Adelram bit his lip "I want to listen. I have to." The buzzing continued "Why? For someone who does not care? Someone who does not even treat you as family?"

Adelram clenched his hands he shouted "He is my father!" The buzz intensified "A father who has battered and abused his child! For what!" The buzzing died down "Don't embrace these lies. Look to Ivan. He could of been saved but he chose it. He chose it and it destroyed him. Even when I tried to help him."

Adelram grew surprised the song was drifting from his mind "You spoke to Ivan?" The buzzing almost became soothing. Far more Soothing than the song "Yes. I tried to save him from the serpent. She dangled his desires in front of him and he took it. He wanted to get to Cadia but did he ever reach it?" Adelram grew slack "When did you talk to him?" The buzzing started to consume his whole being "That does not matter."

Adelram pushed back slightly "Why does it not matter? When did you talk to him?" Soon the song started to come back the buzzing tried to push the song from his mind "It does not. What matters is that I am trying to save a child." Adelram grew frustrated "Speak plainly." The buzzing reverberated in his ears "You are being troublesome! Some children don't know what is best for them! Listen! I seek to deliver you!" The song began increasing in volume Adelram pushed the buzzing in his mind back "If you care speak the truth! or do you also lie to your children?"

The buzzing grew quiet for a moment and started up again "I spoke to him when you tormented him. I gave him a way out." Adelram pressed further "What was the way out? What did you entice Ivan with? What did you show him?" The buzzing was now like a whisper "I tried to save him." The music the weaving of the song and the screams reached a crescendo Adelram focused on the music to let the song fill him as he said "I don't need you. It's clear what would of happened to me if Ivan took your offer." As Adelram said this there was a gurgled scream as the flies dissipated.

Adelram opened his eyes and he was on the ground he looked around. He found himself in the city on his chest there is a communication device, a bolt pistol, combat knife and a small note. He is still wearing his robes. He wore no shoes either. Adelram held the communication device a voice came through it the voice belonged to Marthas. He spoke in a flat tone "Well done my lord. You passed the first part still that is not enough. To lead us you must be above everyone else. You must be the pinnacle everyone reaches for. They must Admire you and bow when you walk past." Adelram ground his teeth and shouted into the device "Marthas! What are you playing at!"

Adelram could hear a small sigh through the speaker "My lord. You still have much to learn and experience. For example you did not reach that fortress wall with your own power. You put your life on the line but in the end you used a crutch the experience was stifled with that. None of the warband even respected what you did. There was talk of mutiny after you took it."

Adelram grew silent he spoke into the device "I don't need their Admiration." Marthas retorted "You do. If you are to lead us. If the warband follows Sebastian they will grow lax and weak their excess will be small. Their achievements will be small. Your desire should be the warbands desire." Adelram thought on what he said "Why would the warband want what I want? They would most likely scoff and call it childish."

Marthas chuckled "How would you know if you don't tell them? Are you Afraid? Why should you be afraid to reveal your excess? I can't think of anything more wonderful to grab the attention of a primarch himself. The sort of war and suffering we need to bring upon our enemies to do such a thing." Marthas' words stabbed straight into his hearts, Marthas continued "Asriel provided the first tool the brands. I have provided other tools to help you. As Sitri said you must immerse yourself enjoy the journey I have provided for you."

Adelram scowled "All you gave me is a combat knife and bolt pistol! I also don't have my power armour!" after a minute Marthas voice came through "And? I had to give you some handicaps since you are also a pskyer. The note I left you is from Asriel those words will help you on your pilgrimage they hold wisdom. Don't forget I am also putting my life on the line for this since I have no idea how Asriel will react once I tell him what I have done to you. He grew upset when I told him of my pilgrimage."

Adelram scoffed "Pilgrimage!? Really now? Also you plotted this yourself!" Marthas sighed "It is a pilgrimage and yes Asriel had something else in mind but that's not enough we need more I know you can do more." Adelram looked to his surroundings the area has seen great battles if he breathed in the scent of the place he could smell decay and blood. Marthas voice came through the device again "I dropped you off to the north of the city inner city. Where all three sides are hotly contested. You must return here in a month. If you are not here in a month I will presume you are dead."

Adelram laughed slightly "I could take my time you know? Why the time limit?" Marthas voice came through again this time Adelram could tell a tinge of anger lined his voice "Do you think we have an infinite amount of time!? Everyday Sebastian grip grows tighter! Who knows if the Death guard may destroy the warband! You have a month. If you don't come back in a month I will kill everyone here. I will kill Jedrick, Silas, Isira and I will face Asriel. I will destroy everything that we have built if you don't make it back here in a month. Do you desire to be a dull blade forever?" Marthas voice became firm as he said his next few words "Adapt or Die. Find your true shape or be the weakling leader your brothers think you are. Those are your options."

The communication device died after Marthas' last words. Adelram threw the device in anger he stood up the bolt pistol and combat knife fell to the floor along with the note. He picked up all three. As he held the items he understood finally why Marthas showed him the map. He could picture the location of the black circle. He looked to the note he wondered how Asriel's words will help.

It read


My lord, I know you will struggle to use the brands and at times I know you will get frustrated. so I will say thus look up to the sky. The scar the mark of the gods themselves. Gaze at it. Let it fill you. Listen to the noise and suffering of billions of souls and understand. Things that were impossible in the past is now possible.

Adelram folded the note and placed it in the robe pocket. It did not tell him much but Marthas said it will help. He had a month, recalling the sensation and sight of Marthas' soul he knows full well he could back up his threat. Even now Adelram is realising to his shock that possibly Marthas could kill Sebastian with ease.

Adelram tried hard to smile as he said "Very well. I shall do this pilgrimage of yours Marthas."

Lord General Jacob watched the summary executions taking place, Commissar Liam committing the act had their families bought to the execution so the deserters know how they failed their family and the imperium itself. Jacob also guessed this is also a lesson to the family itself as well considering they will soon be conscripted. The letters have already been sent to their apartments.

They stood in the noble plaza the most centre point of the city. He was stationed here a few years ago due to his predocessar dying.
This position became known to be cursed by some of the staff since every few years the Lord General dies in their room sitting on their chair. After being through cadia nothing could scare him. He told himself when he came here that he would not fail again. He lead the 102nd. Due to the time taken to win the war they had to pull conscripts from the civilians.

He could see nobles from the balcony watching what was about to happen like a show. It disgusted him. The Adminstratum has already picked out three noble houses that would possibly take over after the war is won.

He looked at Liam pacing shouting at the conscripts who abandoned their positions. Calling them cowards and traitors to the emperor. As Jacob closed his eyes he could see Cadia as it was cracked asunder and Liam was right they have no need for cowards or people who would break. The deserters were lined up against a bloodied wall stripped of their uniform and chained. As they were escorted to the wall the chains were attached to small hooks in the ground they were in rags.

Jacob could see their families being held back by cadians he could tell by their faces they agreed with what was happening. None of the people here have watched their homeworld die and many had families in the past that fought on cadia. Liam began his work 10 deserters he placed a bolt shell in the heads of each the chains holding them in place. As he reached the last one the deserter cried out "I just wanted to check on my family! You killed my wife! You took my son! I just wanted to make sure my daughter was okay!" As he said this out of the crowd he could see a young woman trying to push past tears in her eyes. Jacob could see she was holding an instrument.

Liam shouted at the deserter "Quiet! If you truly cared you would have remained at your post! You would of stuck to your duty to the emperor!" Liam raised his bolt pistol the deserter did not even get to cry out before Liam shot him in the head.

When the execution was done the soldiers escorted the grieving family members away back to the civilian area.

Servitors began clearing away the dead bodies. Jacob scratched his beard he had a scar down his right eye due to the war on cadia his right arm and left leg were also bionic. His beard and hair had grey streaks. His "friend" has set him up with the arm and leg along with the rejuvination treatments. His words were that in this age of darkness they needed men like him. Jacob shrugged wondering what his friend saw in him they have worked together many times in the past.

Liam approached him and holstered his bolt pistol "Lord General the three are waiting in the main headquarters." Jacob sighed "I am surprised they turned up. I wish to go over the map of the city."

Jacob could see Liam wanted to ask something "What is it?" Liam nodded "You wish to go over the map again?" Jacob turned to the large noble house being used as the imperial guards main base one of the three donated it to them "Yes. I am still convinced there is more going on in this war."

Jacob walked to the building, Liam followed behind him "I have been here for 3 years. Something or someone is keeping us from getting any gains in territory." Liam responded "We are battling two heretical forces. What you have done so far is impressive com-" Jacob interjected "Compared to my predecessors? They avoided looking at the whole picture so they died. I won't make that mistake."

They reached the main base as walked in people were at radio desks directing squads and compliing reports. Jacob and Liam entered the main chamber. The three representives stood waiting in front of a large map. Two were female one was male. The females unsettled him the most, Lady Isabella Glodmar she had long black hair and a dress gown clearly displaying the form of her body. Her face is the picture form of beauty.
The second he had no idea how she looked save she had somewhat pale skin she wore a black dress along with a black veil. Her name is Velisha Marfire

Finally the noble who donated this base to them when they arrived. Jacob is sure he is going to get the position considering he has been giving a large amount of his wealth to aid the war effort his name is Uriah Boaz. Uriah to Jacob looked quite plain he had short blonde hair and blue eyes. His clothes were far more modest compared to the other two.

Jacob walked to his end of the table Liam stood next to him Jacob gestured to the map "I came here to discuss our position." Isabella scoffed "Again Lord General? We have been here several times we know what is at stake." Velisha nodded in agreement "Indeed. We are doing all we can to help you."

Jacob creased his brow he was about to speak until Uriah interjected "I don't think the Lord General deserves such talk considering his men are dying for us. He does not even have to let us be here. I think if he called us it's for a good reason."

Jacob looked at Uriah he knew he was reliable and when this conflict finally ends he would put in a recommendation for him to take over. Jacob pointed to the map "Now. We have a good idea roughly how much the heretics control. The issue is that no one has gained anything."

Uriah raised his eyebrow "They have not gained anything? What do you mean?" Jacob pointed to the control zones of the heretics "Going by our intel they have not expanded. Not even once since the conflict has started. This war has lasted almost 30 years perhaps even longer going by our information. Still In our case the same as occurred I looked over old reports we have losses in areas where we were planning to make forward bases. Expand our control."

Isabella pulled out a small mirror and began to do her make up "I am quite sure that it is the heretics doing this." Jacob shook his head "That's what I thought at first. Yet the heretics have not expanded as I said before. Even supposedly if they killed our men why have they not taken the area for themselves? Unless someone is stopping them."

Velisha hackled "What are you trying to say? That we are dealing with another enemy?" Jacob nodded "Indeed. I believe there is an unknown element in this war. This will go with why I am calling you here." Uriah folded his arms "What you are about to say is going to effect us I assume?"
Jacob smiled he is indeed a smart man he said to himself, Jacob paced "I am setting the curfew time to be 3 hours earlier. So everyone including nobles should be in doors by 18:00 hours." Isabella protested "Why!? What reason do you have to impose it on us? I can understand placing the rule on the civilian area! You can't do this!"

Jacob stopped and stared Isabella down "I aim to win this war and this is a part of it. I am quite sure filing a complaint to the right person might just.." Isabella frowned ruining her features "Is that a threat? Fine. Very well." Uriah sighed "There is no reason to protest. He has a job to do. We are not the ones putting our lives on the line."

Jacob raised his eyebrow again Uriah seemed far to reliable and understanding. Perhaps being surrounded by selfish nobles has jaded his view but Uriah was a breath of fresh air. Jacob sighed "Indeed. I am doing this to win the war. Now the meeting is adjured." The three nobles left the room.

Jacob looked at the map again he could tell Liam wanted to say something "What's on your mind?" Liam nodded "I hope lord general you haven't been listening to the conscripts too much." Jacob looked at Liam "No it's just common sense. Something is keeping us from getting ahead. I just don't know what."

Liam looked to the door "So increasing the curfew was for what reason? How would that help us? All we have is disgruntled nobles." Jacob pointed to two circles that he deemed to be controlled by the heretics "I think someone is helping them along with an unknown element."
Liam narrowed his eyes "The nobles are possibly corrupted?" Jacob stroked his chin "Posssibly. I just know not to take any risks. I am going to contact a friend see if he knows anything." Liam raised his eyebrow "A friend?" Jacob smiled showing his white teeth.

Adelram is going to have such a great time... A wonderful time!

Hehehe

Chapter 13


entry 11011

At times I watch the cadians training in the distance, in this instance training conscripts many do not handle it well. Many are punished and when it finally comes to their duties many die. Some conscripts take to their new role with a zeal and eventually put into proper squads. Doing such things confuses me still, they are being used as a simple cog. A tiny cog in a monolithic machine that would not care if they died or give anything to them if they succeed.

Still it was difficult to gain eyes within the cadians. Since the destruction of their home their focus has become unreal. Even so some crack, especially the conscripts.

I smuggle myself into the inner city via resource trucks. Now most would wonder how I hide? A mix of concealing myself within the shadows at the back of the truck and ensuring those who inspect said trucks are in my pocket.

When I get within I check my contacts and perhaps gain new ones. The situation in the civilian area is not exactly... pleasant. Muggings and crime is rife. The cadians are focused on the war and largely let the civilians do what they please. It's clear they look down upon them.

Camila held her violin she played a song. A song her family used to enjoy, she is in the plaza of the civilian area she tried not to cry. Her Mother said to never cry when preforming as always people would gather around her to listen. Her mother got her the violin for her birthday once and she took to practising ever since. Still Some would say her music is the little light they have to help them go about their day she never gave thought to how good she is. Part of her actually felt she played badly. Camila finished the last note.

She looked upon the crowd who were smiling and then they began clapping, some even had tears in their eyes they even called out "Please play tomorrow!". Others say her talent came from the emperor himself. Camila tried to smile she bowed and rose as she rose she thought she saw an unfamiliar face in the crowd.

They wore a strange black coat along with a hood and scarf. They walked away she wondered why her eyes came towards that person. As she moved through the crowd people handed her ration packs or even on a rare occasion clothing.

She left the crowd and began walking home to her apartment. She is now the only tenant. Her mother was killed in a purge. Her brother Leo was taken away by the soldiers he was only 14 at the time. Many young children were taken.

Finally her father was executed. Thinking on this she tried not to cry she is 23 she has her talent. Perhaps she could figure something out when the war ended. As she walked she turned down a narrow path a short cut to her apartment block.

Soon two men stood in front of her and a Man from behind called out "Now where are you going little missy?" Camila blood ran cold "I am ju-just going home!" The two men in front of her laughed one said "Hey how about we take her violin! We might be able to get something out of it!" The second agreed "Yeah! Might even get some ration packs." Camila turned to the man behind her "I can give you the ration packs I have! Please I need my Violin! It's all I have left!" The man she turned to is bald he had a large frame he said "No. No. We want everything and maybe... we might let you go." The two men behind her laughed.

Camila held her violin tightly Camila could hear the drawing of knives. Camila lips quivered in fear the bald man walked forward slowly Camila cried out "Someone help me please!" As she said this a man jumped down he rose slowly. Looking at him it was the person in the crowd he turned to her and smiled for some reason it put her at ease.

The bald man glowered "Mind your business! This woman is ours!" He pointed to the two men "Kill this fool!" Camila turned the two men rushing at them she looked up to the hooded man in a flash his hands moved to his belt and in a swift motion his hand flicked out like he threw something. The two men squealed in pain and dropped to the ground a knife lodged in both their heads.

The hooded man turned to the bald mugger. Camila also looked at him she could see he began sweating he stepped back a few steps he turned and ran for his life. Again the man moved his hand to his belt and threw another knife landing in the back of the bald man's head he screamed in pain as he tumbled forward. Camila watched the man breath a sigh as he said "Are you okay?"

Camila blinked "Are you with the army?" He did not wear a uniform, but how he killed those criminals it was not normal. The man smiled "No. Just a bystander who could not let a group of foolish men ruin wonderful talent." Camila could see he looked about the same age as her he had dark skin and oddly blue eyes.

Camila looked to her Violin "Wonderful talent? I am not that good." The man smiled again "Nonsense! Oddly enough music does not do all that much for me but when I heard you play. The sheer emotion you put in..." Camila felt a small amount of confidence at his words "Thank you. By the way I have an apartment. We could talk more there." The hooded man folded his arms "You trust me that readily?" Camila nodded "I don't know why. I oddly feel safe with you around."

The man shrugged "Very well. By the way my name is Asriel." Camila smiled "That's a very nice name." Asriel smiled back to her "I value it greatly. Someone important gave it to me." Camila raised her eyebrow "Gave it to you?" Asriel nodded "we could discuss this as your place." Camila pointed down the road "It's close by. I was just taking a short cut."

Camila watched Asriel pull the knives out of the dead men he cleaned them with a cloth before placing it back on his belt. Camila still wondered who he was still she could not shake the feeling she would be safe if she stuck close to him.

Camila entered her apartment. She held the door open for Asriel, he walked in and looked around. She could see out of the window it was now dusk, the curfew is most likely in effect. As she stepped forward she saw a letter on the floor. Most likely it was tucked underneath the door since her apartment door does not have a letter box.

She picked it up and placed it on the table. She looked at the empty double bed and the bed of her little brother. She tried not to cry again. Camila gestured to the table "Why don't we sit down?" Camila sat at the table, Asriel sat at the other end she placed her Violin on the table and looked at the letter.

Looking at the letter filled her with dread for some reason, looking to Asriel for some reason it felt like he is waiting for something. Camila smiled softly "Do you mind if I just take a look at the letter before we talk?" Asriel shook his head "No. I am the guest do as you will." Camila opened the letter. Her mouth hanged slightly.

Dear citizen

You have been chosen to enter the army of the glorious god emperor. The Astra Militarum, please report to the designated location detailed in the letter. Due note that to refuse this excellent opportunity is to sin before the god emperor. Please come to the area within 48 hours if you do not the soldiers of the god emperor shall visit your premises.

Below the letter Camila could see a map pointing out where to go. Finally tears ran down her face as Asriel said "What's the matter?" Camila tried to smile "I am joining the army of the emperor. To defend this world." Camila could see concern on Asriel's face as he said "Are you happy with that?"

Camila did not know what to think. Her father was killed as a traitor just for trying to see her yet she has always been told this is a great honour. Perhaps even if she dies maybe she could see her father again? Perhaps even her mother.

She said a small prayer "God-emperor please look out for my little brother Leo." Asriel frowned she could see he grew slightly upset "What's the matter Asriel?" Asriel shook his head "You are better with a Violin than with a gun." Camila bit her lip "Yet now I have a duty."

Asriel clenched his hands "Why do you say that? You want to play your Violin. That's what you are good at." Camila looked away "What choice do I have?" Asriel narrowed his eyes "There is always a choice." Camila began wondering why she let almost a complete stranger and a killer into her home. Yet she cannot break the feeling that for some reason she could trust him.

She has only known him for a few hours "I wish the angel would end this war." Asriel raised his eyebrow "Angel?" Camila nodded "My mother told me stories about him. He destroyed all the evil within the city even the nobles were not safe." Camila watched Asriel look at the window as he said "So do you think this Angel is good or evil?"

Camila looked to her violin "Good. My mother said he was sent by the emperor." Asriel then looked to her his face is now serious it scared her slightly what he said scared her even more "There is only evil in the galaxy. No good. Yet we only have one gift that the imperium tries to beat out of us which is choice." Camila could not believe what she is hearing what he just said. What he is saying is..

Yet his confidence in his words drew her in for some reason "So what would you have me do Asriel?" His face was now more calm as he said "You could come with me." Camila mouth went dry "Come with you where?" Asriel smiled gently "To a place that would value your talent. Far more than the people outside." To Camila his smile was so affectionate far more than the smiles she has ever received by the crowd.

Part of her felt that taking his offer would be a mistake. A mistake she could never take back she looked at the letter again she saw a flash of her father's death "I have.. a duty. If I could do my part perhaps end the war no one else will suffer." Asriel frowned at her response "Suffering is constant. War is constant that is the eternal state of the galaxy Camila. You choosing to follow that letter. You will be just added to that cycle."

Camila looked at Asriel searching his face he did not seem angry just disappointed "I have no idea about the galaxy. Never left the world, but if I could do my small part.." Asriel laughed softly "Very well. You made your choice still." Asriel rose from the table he walked to her side, she turned slightly to him "You can stay the night. it's almost curfew." Asriel shook his head "Don't worry. I can handle myself." He gave a similar smile to before "I want to give you something. For good luck perhaps you might have a chance."

Camila raised her eyebrow "A chance?" Asriel then put a small gold coin on the table it has a wing holding a small jewel. Camila looked at it "What is it?" Asriel looked away to the door "A possible life line. I still believe your talent would be better served for my family. Still you made your choice."

Asriel walked to the door "Please be careful Camila." Asriel smiled one more time before leaving. Camila looked at the coin she picked it up it was warm to touch. Holding it comforted her for some reason but also made her feel unsure. While holding the letter she had to admit her blood ran cold slightly. She became scared.

Camila folded the letter and put it into her pocket.

Uriah was sleeping in his bedroom yet he could not sleep. The fact of the news of the unknown element in the war. It's clear to him that the Lord Commander set the Curfew time on the nobles in order to control their movements more. He had to be careful that he does not get caught unaware since the other houses might twist certain information to denounce him as a heretic.

Uriah felt a draft in his room he was sure he closed the window before bed. He got up it was night time he closed the window in annoyance. He turned to see a man sitting at the small table in his room in front of his Regicide board. Uriah was about to call out for guards until the man interjected his voice almost a whisper yet Uriah heard it word by word "If you call out. You will die. Don't bother. I came here to talk Uriah."

Uriah closed his mouth he wondered how did this person know his name the man gestured for him to sit in front of him. Uriah sat down he looked at the man's face it is a skull or a helmet made out of one. He wore a small jacket with combat trousers the hood seemed to be a part of the scarf.
Uriah looked at the man and said "What should I call you?" The man looked at the board and said "Call me Skull Face. Someone called me that before I killed him." Uriah mumbled "Skull Face..." Uriah folded his arms "What do you want." Skull face chuckled "To talk." Uriah narrowed his eyes "About what?" Skull face gestured to the regicide board "How about we talk over a game?" Uriah shook his head "Fine."

Skull face readied the board in silence they began, Uriah moved his first piece forward as he said "So what do you want to talk about?" Skull face moved another "About your payment." Uriah frowned "I don't owe anything to anyone. I never worked with criminals or loan sharks." Skull face shook his head "Not that kind of payment. Have you ever questioned why your family prospered despite the vices they displayed?"

Uriah thought on it the game continued as he is thinking "I did think about it. It was odd but perhaps I am blessed by the god emperor skull face." Skull face took one of his pieces with a pawn Uriah frowned "I use my wealth to better everyone around me." Skull face gave a small laugh "So you can feel better about yourself." Uriah scoffed "I have no idea what you are talking about. It's the duty of the nobility to reach down to the downtrodden."

Skull face grew silent they coutinued their game, after a few minutes Uriah grew frustrated Skull face is using the pawns to easily take out his important pieces. He then uses his greater and more important piececs to support the pawns preventing him from moving in. Uriah kissed his teeth "So what kind of payment are you collecting?" Skull face moved another piece "You can blame your mother. I require something from you."
Uriah grew confused "What does my mother have to do with this?" Skull face placed his foot on his knee and casually sat back in the chair "She made an agreement with me. I have come to collect." Uriah sighed in annoyance "What do you want information? Money?" Skull face did not answer his question.

The game eventually ended. Looking at the board he had him utterly surrounded he had a great number of pawns left "I am surprised you play like this considering you are a heretic." Uriah pushed the point forward he most likely guessed he might be a part of the unknown element. Skull face picked up a pawn piece "Everything is important. Even the smallest piece a small thing can benefit my lord and my family greatly."

Uriah stroked his chin "So you are a heretic." Skull face shrugged "I don't really care what you call me. The payment I require from you is that you join my family and serve my lord." Uriah tried hard not to shout he kept his voice firm "I will not serve heretics." Skull face placed the piece down and shook his head "You are a heretic already. Considering your family made a bargain with a heretic."

Uriah screwed his face into disgust he tried to keep his voice low "That was my mother in her foolishness! I have nothing to do with that!" Skull face stood up "Does not matter. The bargain touched your entire family line. You have reaped the benefits from it." Uriah rose "So what? Are you going to kidnap me?"

Skull face rose from the chair and walked to the window and turned his head slightly "No. Not yet I am just giving you a... warning or some advice. When my lord comes and shakes the very foundation of this city. When he comes here with the screams and suffering of the minions of the emperor in the wind be ready to bend the knee."

Uriah narrowed his eyes "Why are you so sure that you will win?" Skull face looked foward "I have set the stage to make it so." A gust of wind blew into his face forcing Uriah to cover his eyes he looked to the window skull face vanished.

Chapter 14

Entry 11020

I watch the woman play in the plaza. I never was interested in music and most things don't move my heart. The only times I ever felt happy or any sense of pleasure was either when I am killing or serving my lord(Or his interests) in the past. Yet oddly listening to her play makes me feel happy and even if Meliva says nothing I can tell she likes it also.

I find myself watching her every time I tend to go to the inner city. I wonder what everyone in the compound will think of it? The fact that it could effect someone like me. She has a wonderful talent something that should not be wasted here. Wasted on the imperials who would not truly grasp how talented she is.

It's been a week and a half of training Camila could not keep up she is out of breath running around the camp. They were near the north entrance of the city. Sergeant Mariana drove everyone in her group hard. They were a female only squad.The male and female conscripts are separated in order to keep them focused. Mariana always made it clear that cadians could handle this training with ease.

Camila dropped to the ground, Camila could hear footsteps she looked up in front of her. It is Mariana she had a large scar across her face and her black hair is extremely short. She made it clear her family served on cadia and that she fought against heretics and horrors in the galaxy since it is her duty to do so.

Two female cadian solders stood at her right and left Mariana shouted at her "Get up worm! You are part of the 102nd! Heretics won't wait for you!" Camila struggled to her feet she coughed Mariana turned away Camila said "I am so.. tired." Mariana stopped and turned back "What did you say?" Camila stood up right "Nothing sir." Mariana walked towards her and shouted in her face "Are you lying to your Sergeant !? What did you say soldier!?" Camila's lips trembled "I said I am tired sir."

Camila cried slightly. Mariana spat to the ground "You people have no idea..." Camila watched Marinana's hand moving back and with a large amount of force she punched Camila in the gut. Camila had the wind knocked out of her she dropped to her knee's she coughed. Mariana walked around her "You have such nice brown hair." Mariana undid the knot holding her hair it flowed to her shoulders.

Mariana gestured to the two cadian soldiers "You two hold her." They walked over and held her in place Mariana drew her combat knife she began roughly cutting her hair Camila tried to struggle the soldiers held her place. Mariana threw her hair to the ground, Camila could not help it the tears began rolling down her face like a waterfall. Mariana walked in front of her and knelt down.

Mariana shouted "Look at me!" Camila raised her face covered in tears snot going down her nose Mariana eyes burrowed into her "You are going to run 10 more laps around camp. Each time you stop I am going to have these two pick you up and then I am going to punch you in the gut again! Do you understand me soldier!?" Camila continued crying her voice a squeak "Yes sir.." Mariana shouted "I can't hear you!" Camila shouted "Yes sir!"

Mariana stood up and walked away. Camila got up slowly she placed her hand in her pocket she felt the coin Asriel gave her. She removed her hand from her pocket and continued to run.

As she got to the 9th lap she could see Mariana in discussion with a superior she is saluting as he spoke she called their squad to the centre of the camp after he left. Camila ran over. Mariana shouted "Line up!"

Camila and the rest of her squad lined up and saluted. Mariana walked the line "We have a mission to support in securing a possible foward base. Our comrades in arms have been attacked. We will be taking a chimera. Everyone gear up!" Everyone rushed to their tents and suited up. Camila is in her tent she opened the chest in her tent containing her flak armour and lasgun.

She left the violin in her apartment. She said to herself one day when the war is over she might return for it. Carmila reached into her pocket and pulled out the coin for some reason looking at it calmed her down. She stuffed the coin in her pocket, Asriel said it might be a possible life line she had no idea what he meant still she felt that it might be good luck to keep it on her.

Camila suited up and lined up back with her squad. Mariana is now holding a chainsword and las pistol along with wearing her helmet. She pointed with her chainsword to the north gate "Our Chimera is at the gate. Get moving everyone!"

They marched to the gate there were 12 of them in total. Another woman marched next to Camila she looked older than her she guess that she looked in her forties. She gave her a smile "My name Alba. I saw what our Sergeant did." Camila smiled back "It's okay. I mean she has a job to do as do we." Alba shook her head in sadness "You look so young and beautiful. My daughter was about your age." Camila surprised said "Where is she?"

Alba grew sad "She was conscripted. I was told the heretics killed her. So I decided to join. To do my part." Camila frowned "I am sorry. My family is largely gone also." Alba smiled "At least we are doing the work of the emperor to drive them off world." Camila nodded "Yes we have a duty don't we?" Alba gently smiled and whispered "When we get back I can help you fix your hair." To Camila talking to Alba reminded her of her dead mother she nodded in thanks.

They soon reached the north gate. Camila looked at the vehicle in awe, Mariana shouted "Another gawking get on!" One by one they hopped unto the vehicle. Camila held her lasgun tightly she looked around the vehicle as it began to move some looked nervous others did not give away what they were feeling. Camila looked to Alba who is praying, Camila decided to pray also.

The drive was bumpy and it lasted for what felt like an age to Camila. The vehicle stopped the driver called out to Mariana "Sir. There is only a single person there." Mariana got up and walked to the driver "What do you mean a single person?" The driver turned to her he said "A large person wearing a black robe surrounded by dead guardsmen."

Camila watched Mariana walk to the middle she shouted "We have a single heretic outside! Don't underestimate them! We will move with caution! Everyone out of the Vehicle!" The door opened everyone got out. Mariana is at the head of the squad.

Camila looked around burnt tents, bodies everywhere the stench of blood, fire and oddly perfume is in the air. Camila tried hard not to heave. Mariana ordered "Eyes forward! Advance on the heretic!" They approached slowly in the middle of the makeshift camp a Large man stood in a dirty black robe. He wore a utility belt around his waist that held a blade and a large pistol.

Camila could see his feet looked bloodied surrounded by dead imperial guardsmen he turned towards them. His black hood obscuring his face. Camila heard a voice piercing her mind the voice caressed her mind gently she is looking at a man yet the voice held no distinct gender she quivered as the voice said "More? They sent more? Surrender to me and you will live." Mariana held her head "Ignore it! Fire at will!" At her command Camila tried to steady herself to focus. Everyone in her squad tried to do the same.

The chimera trained it's gun on the lone heretic. The heretic sighed "his" voice came into her mind again "You see the dead yet you advance. Very well." Camila watched the air around the heretic ripple as Mariana shouted "Fire!" Camila pressed the trigger a red light surging forwards along with the fire of the Chimera.

To Camila's shock the lasers diverted into a different direction as they reached the Heretic, some shots crashed against a strange purple energy field. A dirge of words spilled from the heretic's mouth Camila could not understand a word but it threw her off balance. She could not focus.

She watched small purple energy balls surrond the heretic the smell of the air changed it smelt like a mix of honey and perfume. Several of the balls shot foward crashing into the chimera. It crackled with purple energy and suddenly it exploded launching Camila and her squad foward.
Camila's ears were ringing she tried to get up everything is blurry. The heretic in her blurry vision is now charging at them some raised guns but as he got close they froze his combat knife flicked out trailing with purple flame he cut the throats of anyone in the vicinity of him. He moved with such speed Camila's eyes could not keep up.

Camila readied her gun again she fired her shot crashed against the strange energy field again. Moriana charged shouting "For the emperor!" The heretic laughed his voice filling her mind again "What nonsense have you filled their heads with? These conscripts are simply lambs to the slaughter." Moriana shouted "Shut up!" She swung her blade wildly Camila could tell in close proximity to the heretic she is struggling to focus her strikes are slow. To Camila it seemed like Mariana did not wish to strike him.

The heretic caught her arm with his free hand and broke it, Moriana screamed, the heretic laughed "Scream more! Scream more for me!" The heretic let go of Moriana she moved back as she gripped her broken arm. The heretic sheathed his knife and walked forward he summoned more purple bolts they launched themselves at Camila's squad mates. One bolt hurtled towards her Camila ran and jumped out of the way.

Many were still on the ground due to the explosion. Camila looked around on the ground as bolts crashed into her squadmates they screamed. It was a horrific sort of scream that would burn into your mind forever, Moriana looked around she grit her teeth as she said "More will come monster. More will come to end you heretic!"

The heretic looked down at her he leaned down and lifted his hood slightly "Is that what you still think of me Moriana?" Camila could see her lips quivering "I-I-" The heretic said "I what? Speak clearly." Camila hated the fact he spoke into their minds it did not feel right. It made her think strange and disgusting thoughts.

Moriana cried, to Camila's shook as she said "I can't. So.. beautiful" The heretic held her head in both hands as it was consumed in purple flames she screamed. The heretic laughed "Such music..." Camila slowly rose to her feet her hands were shaking. Alba ran in front of her holding her gun "Run Camila. You are too young." As Camila Alba said those words flashes of her father appeared in her mind, Camila began crying "I can't."

Alba nodded "I see, so both of us will die for the emperor." Camila looked at the heretic as he removed his hands from Moriana's head, many of Camila's squad who survived the attack by the heretic are running away. Camila held firm with Alba tears still in her eyes as she said "I can't run."
The heretic began slowly walking towards them "Do run. Please it will make it more interesting when I kill you." Alba shouted "Shut up monster! We will kill you in the name of the god emperor!" To Camila shock Alba seems unfazed by the heretic, the heretic ran towards them. Camila could only see his white teeth that horrific and wonderful smile as he came towards them.

Alba and Camila fired their guns the same occurring, their shots crashed against the energy field, Camila kept firing her energy cell dying she kept pushing the trigger. Her heart beating rapidly. The heretic is almost right in front of them, Alba stood in front of her, the heretic simply backhanded her across the face even with the helmet her head twisted and snapped.

Alba crumpled to the ground her face stuck in a fixture of horror. The heretic is now in front of her. Camila now terrified she did not know what to do. She did not want to die, she dropped her gun and tried to walk back. The heretic said softly the voice pressured her mind "Stay here with me." Camila froze, soon a strange musk filled her nostrils she felt her muscles relaxing somewhat.

Camila wanted to move her mind told her to yet her heart said otherwise. The heretic drew his knife, he towered over her. The musk fully enveloping her nose the combat knife moved closely to her eye. She tried to cry out in terror yet she could not.

The knife stopped suddenly, he sheathed the blade and pulled off his hood his or.. her? she is not sure. Still the full vision of the heretic's face blasted her mind. Camila strangely longed for him, his wonderful long flowing white hair. Suddenly the heretic grabbed her in a bear hug.
He sniffed her, Camila could not move she could not handle being this close to him. Just the heretic touching her is too much. It is too much for her body to handle she groaned. She felt his face on her neck sniffing she seized up. He reached down in her pocket as her body went slack. He looked at the gold coin for a few seconds and sniffed it breathing in the scent deeply.

He smiled at her, he spoke with his mouth as he said "You are very interesting and lucky. Do you know that?" Camila could not exactly hear what he said her eyes rolled back not being able to handle being near him due to the sensory overload. She gasped a final groan before fading away.

By the way. Our glorious and now fabulous leader was holding back.

Chapter 15


Entry 11035

Oddly enough, I have started to notice that largely Jedrick keeps to himself. He seems less boastful for some reason. When he is not training with Silas he is arguing with Marthas about his cult. I had no idea why he seems so upset about it or why he wants to prove it wrong.

Always he says the things that are coming out of Marthas' mouth is garbage. While Marthas retorts that it's necessary and the fact our lord may need his guidance when we find him. When he said this Jedrick oddly grew livid I watched them almost come to blows if Silas did not intervene. One thing I know for sure out of the Astartes Jedrick cares the most for our lord. I have no idea why but.. watching him it's clear to me the he is jealous of Marthas for some reason.

Astartes largely know no fear(As the saying goes) but I found they experience it differently compared to normal people. What I see now how Jedrick is acting is fear. What he fears I have no idea.

Noxus speared his blade into a member of the death guard and twisted, even if they appeared dead it became prudent to ensure that they are dead. Noxus has seen Death Guard ignore heavy injuries that would kill even an Astartes. He looked around to his squad members the champion they all followed his name is Valirak. Noxus hoped that being given the honour of placing the busted helmet on Adelram may of gained him some followers.

Perhaps even the chance to finally break loose from Valirak. Noxus looked to his sword, he could challenge him for his place. He turned in the direction of Valirak he is in discussion with the rest of his squad. Valirak features were aqualine, pristine his looks matched his bladework. His white hair is short and his green eyes when levelled at someone shows how condescending he actually is. Noxus knew that he would not have such a look if he were in Sebastian's presence.

Noxus sighed in annoyance as he said under his breath "I would have no chance." Noxus walked over, Valirak paced clearly annoyed "Sebastian places us near the south where there is barely any fun to be had." Noxus mumbled "He placed us here for a reason." Valirak levelled his eyes on Noxus in annoyance, Noxus remembered that those favoured by the dark prince have acute senses he turned his head away slightly trying not to meet his gaze.

Valirak walked over to Noxus he tapped his deactivated power blade on his chest "Do you have something to say Noxus?" Noxus is still looking away as he said "No. I do not." Valirak gently turned his face towards him "I heard you say that Sebastian placed us here for a reason."
Noxus is glad he that he is wearing a helmet so Valirak could not see what face he is making at the moment. Noxus frowned "Fine I did say that." Valirak's face turned into a scowl "Now. If I want your opinion... I would ask it." Noxus could see his follow squad members snickering their squad numbered 6 in total.

Valirak turned away "Perhaps we might find some humans hiding in the buildings? I hear how many imperial guard conscripts like to desert." Valirak began walking to a nearby building Noxus followed suit with the rest of the squad. Noxus sighed in annoyance it's more likely they would find humans in the buildings to the north not the south.

Sebastian perhaps sent them here as some kind of joke or punishment. Knowing Valirak he must of slighted Sebastian somehow perhaps showing off his looks? Or even how he spoke to him one time? They entered a nearby building, the building looked like it could fall apart. He heard the death guard did a great amount of damage upon the south of the city when they landed.

As they entered a hall in the middle of the room he could see something in the centre of the room. They inspected the centre of the room someone has set up a makeshift camp fire. The materials looked to be burnt recently. Valirak smiled "See. The dark prince is showing us his favour there might be some meat in the building." Noxus could see everyone getting excited, he even had to admit that he felt quite joyful at the prospect.

Valirak gestured for everyone to continue into the building they came upon another hall. There is a door at the end of the room and the room had small pillars. Valirak breathed in "There is someone here." Noxus readied his sword "Really? Where?" Valirak pointed to a pillar. Valirak walked over and looked behind the pillar he pointed at he began laughing.

Noxus watched him walk behind the pillar and pulled someone out. Noxus could see it is a young woman. She had roughly cut brown hair, she had light skin and blue eyes. She is also wearing a torn imperial guard uniform. Noxus wondered how one person could get this far south. Valirak licked his lips "See everyone? Meat." Noxus frowned under his helmet "We can't exactly share one person can we?" Noxus sheathed his blade. Valirak smiled and looked down to the frail woman "You are right. I found her so she is mine."

Noxus watched the woman struggle to no avail. Valirak smiled "She looks so frail for a guardsmen." Valirak turned her around towards him as he said gently "Do you have a name?" The woman looked away, Noxus knew in that instance she made a mistake. Valirak held her face with his hand his features twisted "I asked you a question meat!"

She still refused to answer, Noxus wondered if she had a death wish, Valirak roughly grabbed her hair she squealed in pain. Valirak shouted "You belong to me meat! When I ask you a question! You answer!"

As Valirak said this Noxus heard a voice it unbalanced him slightly the voice sounded familiar to him but it sounded.. different "She belongs to me." Valirak looked around "Who said that! Come out witch!" The doors at the end of the hall opened, Noxus could tell the person is an Astartes they wore a dirty black robe along with a belt holstering a bolt pistol and combat knife.

Yet how he walked did not seem right. His frame seemed slightly slimmer? Something about the Astartes threw Noxus off. Valirak looked at the Astartes "So what are you then? An Exile from the Death Guard?" The hooded Astartes folded his arms as he continued to speak into their minds "No. Also I dislike when my brothers mishandle things that don't belong to them."

Noxus flinched hearing it no him speak made him feel strange things. He did not know how to deal with it. Valirak laughed "Oh who are you then? I am meant you must of annoyed our lord greatly to be stripped of your gear and cast out." Noxus watched the hooded Astartes flash a smile with his white teeth. Noxus looked at how his lips moved his smile is wonderful and terrible at the same time "No, Sebastian thought it was a good idea to have Noxus over there place a busted helmet on my head."

Noxus eyes shot wide he placed his hand on his sword he shouted "It's impossible! Gethus broke your legs! Left you to the death guard!" Valirak looked to him and back to the hooded Astartes he smiled "Oh somehow he is alive. We are truly favoured think of what Sebastian will give us if we bring his head?" Valirak threw the woman to the side she shouted in pain as she hit the ground.

Valirak waved everyone back "I can handle our pathetic old lord. Everyone stay back." Noxus partly could not believe it was Adelram. His voice is now different, How he walked even standing. Adelram folded his arms "I don't want to kill my brothers. Bow to me and I will let you live." Valirak scoffed "Weak as always. I wonder why we ever followed you." Valirak drew his power sword and activated it.

Adelram's voice pierced everyone's minds again Noxus found it hard to focus whenever he speaks it's like he is drawing them in. "Valirak, know if you take another step I shall give you the gift of suffering. I am giving you an offer to bow and join me." Valirak laughed as he charged he shouted "Useless threats! What can do you do!?"

Noxus watched Valirak charge at Adelram, Noxus knew that Adelram could use a sword but he never known him to be a bladesmen. A part of his mind knew that Valirak could win handily. Valirak slashed suddenly Adelram was now to the left of him to Valirak's shock. Valirak stood in place he shouted "How did you do that!?" Adelram shrugged "I simply dodged it. Your strike was quite slow Valirak."

Valirak gripped his sword he turned and began slashing at Adelram, To Noxus's shock he dodged every blow with ease, Valirak grit his teeth "Hold still!" Adelram smiled again "I can't. I am not wearing power armour getting hit would be quite dangerous. Now as I said Valirak I will give you the gift of suffering."

Valirak slashed again, Adelram dodged to his right with a swift motion he drew his combat knife, Noxus could see it glowed as he removed it from the sheath he stabbed into a gap in Valirak's right arm. Valirak moved back holding his arm, Sweat lined his brow.

Valirak looked to the knife he smiled "Is this all you could do? It just stings!" Noxus tactical display went erratic numbers randomly filled the screen he looked at Adelram he is now mumbling. Noxus shouted at Valirak "He is using sorcery!" Valirak looked at Adelram he was about to charge until his whole arm became consumed in purple flame. The flames emitted from the knife.

Valirak screamed, He dropped his blade and fell to his knee's he tried to grip the knife, Noxus could see his power armour boiling around his arm the flames began moving to his body. Noxus could see Valirak struggling to pull out the knife Valirak grit his teeth and pulled the knife out slowly with his hand. The hand he used to pull out the knife the armour surrounding it is now melted. The flames died out instantly as Valirak removed the knife.

Valirak's voice hoarse said "What have you done to me!?" Noxus looked at Valirak's arm it is now a ruin of melted power armour and skin even a part of his body did not escape the flames. Noxus just realised he is still in the position of gripping his blade. Why hasn't he moved? it's now clear Valirak won't win.

Adelram began chanting strange words again, Noxus felt his nose bleeding suddenly. Valirak shouted "What are you doing kill him! Kill him now!" Everyone drew their blades and charged. Noxus held, for some reason he knew if he moved. He would die. If he drew his blade death will come. Adelram's chant stopped.

Noxus could now smell brimstone and perfume, the smell pierced the fliters of his helmet, Adelram unleashed a wave of purple energy that glittered as it moved, Valirak ducked out of the way. Noxus ran to a pillar for cover, he poked his head out 3 of his squadmates were not lucky the energy crashed into them. Their power armour distorted, twisted they yelled in pure agony. Those not wearing helmets they began vomiting purple as their eyes melted at contact with the wave of energy. All 3 crumpled to the ground.

The glitter stuck to the walls twisting and distorting anything it touched.

Valirak got to his knee's, the Astartes that survived stood still taking a few steps back he hissed "We can't win we should retreat." Valirak shouted "No we can't! I refuse!" The Astartes shook his head "I don't care. You saw what he did." Noxus stepped out from the pillar. He looked at the dead bodies, Valirak eyes fell on him "What are you doing Noxus!? Attack him!"

Noxus held the grip of his blade again His mouth became dry, his hearts now skipping beats. He ran tactical decisions in his mind as he looked at Adelram. He could run but considering what he just saw it would be pointless. His point proves itself right as the last member who survived turned around and approached the door they came through.

Adelram tutted "You can't do that you ignored my offer." Noxus watched Adelram raise his hand he summoned a great long purple whip. He chanted, the energy whip began moving through the air like a snakeit wrapped around the Astartes. He struggled as he shouted "What is this!?" the end of the whip rose and phased into his head. He went slack and with a motion he planted his own blade into his neck. He gurgled as blood pooled from his neck and blood ran down his nose he collapsed to the ground.

Noxus squinted his eyes, he knew finally there is no true escape. His mind diverted to the possibility that this may of been a trap of sort.
Adelram approached Valirak who to Noxus surprise whimpred as he said "Monster... freak!" Adelram cocked his head to one side "I did warn you." Noxus watched Adelram hold Valirak's head he leaned down towards Valirak face his hood now obscuring Valirak's face. Valirak began thrashing, Noxus could hear muffled screams.

Adelram leaned back after a few seconds, Valirak crumpled back his eyes melted, his face ashen and drained you could even see the bone underneath the skin. His lips looked burnt away his upper lip was now entirely missing showing his teeth. Adelram stroked his chin "A shame."
Adelram looked at him directly and began walking towards him. His twin hearts now began beating rapidly, he told himself he had to draw his blade. Or retreat. Noxus shook his head considering what he just did he could easily catch him. Drawing his blade is suicide considering what he just saw.

As he thought this Adelram stood in front of him he finally spoke with his mouth. His voice is far more serene, all hint of gender now gone from his voice. "So you did not take the step forward. Bow to me Noxus." Noxus took a step back "I-I Can't." Adelram frowned "Why not? You don't want to kill me. You wish to serve me if you did not you would have advanced."

Noxus did not know what else to say It's only been a few weeks since he last saw him. How did he changed this much? Considering what Gethus said how he screamed like a child when he broke his legs. Noxus thought on Gethus it's been a few weeks since he vanished he wondered if Adelram had something to do with it.

Adelram took another step foward "Don't walk away from me Noxus." Noxus shouted "I can't! I just Can't! You have no idea what Sebastian is like! Neverborn whispers into his ear of traitors!" Adelram smiled "So you follow Sebastian because you fear him? Not because you admire or love him?" Noxus clenched his hands "I don't fear him! He is favoured hence why I follow him!"

Adelram pouted "Sounds like denial to me. Your soul shudders whenever you speak his name." Noxus hated what he just did, Adelram never pouted before yet he could not look away. Adelram clapped his hands "See Noxus if you bow to me. You would not have to fear me you would love and admire me instead." Noxus grew slightly angry "Why would I ever do that!? You have changed yet you are nothing like our old leader. You are nothing like the Starlight king."

Adelram shook his head "I want to be greater than him. I have to be to get what I want." Noxus stepped foward "So you want ascension then?" Adelram shook his head again "No not exactly. I don't want to chase him I want him to look at me. I will be different." Noxus wondered who Adelram referred to a part of him is still in disbelief that he has gained such power in weeks. Noxus laughed "Really!? I bet you are not truly favoured you just learned a few new tricks. That's it! You are playing tricks on my mind!"

Adelram frowned "Is that what you think? Judge for yourself then." Adelram removed his hood, Noxus looked upon Adelram's face his mouth went agape. He was not sure what he saw his.. his features seemed changed. This is not a simple case of looking androgynous. Noxus said "I... I..." Adelram smiled gently "I what?" Noxus felt his legs giving way they felt weak his beauty obliterated Valirak's.

It began to make sense it seemed like his whole body has been changed by someone or something. Noxus shook his head. There is no way he could be more favoured in such a small amount of time it's impossible. It can't be possible after everything they did to him. Even his legs are completely healed.

Noxus's body wanted to drop to his knee's, his heart wanted to yet his mind knew that if he did so it would be the end. His legs finally gave way he dropped to his knee's as he said "Why? Did I do that?" Adelram knelt down slightly "Your body and heart knows what you want listen to that."
Noxus lips trembled "Fine! Fine! I will follow you." Adelram nodded "Good!" He placed his hood back on to Noxus's relief. Adelram walked over to the woman who Valirak threw to the ground. Adelram looked her over he mused "Heavily bruised nothing serious. Up you get." The young woman got up while slightly rubbing her body.

Adelram walked over and picked up the combat knife as he made his way to the twin doors he came out from he said "Are you coming Noxus?" Noxus rose wondering what exactly he has now gotten himself into.

Well we now get to see a few of adelram's new toys and powers. Nice.

lliu wrote:
Well we now get to see a few of adelram's new toys and powers. Nice.

Indeed lots of new toys and mutations. I took some time to go through the black crusade roleplay game looking at physic powers and mutations.