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Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 7

Gavisus’ Schedule

06:00 - 08:00 - Breakfast

08:00-10:00 - Morning training(Taurus note: Make sure you reduce your reload time by 1.5 seconds.)

10:00-11:00 - Free time (Taurus note: I took away one hour because you attempted to skin Asriel. I might change my mind if you aplogise for your foolish behavior)

Wait why!? I-I couldn’t not help it! : (

Taurus:If you use text to display emotion on your schedule I am taking away all your free time for the week. Type properly.

D :

Taurus: Well it looks like you are going to be training more often.

Wait! I will aplogise to Asriel and work on my blade technique as well!

Taurus:I see, if you aplogise to Asriel and work on your blade technique I may rethink the changes.

11:00-12:00 - Afternoon training (Taurus note: Please continue on your reload times)


12:00 - 14:00 - Lunch


14:00- 18:00 - Free time (Captain, I want to collect skin from those of the upper levels, it’s far more better in quality than the slaves who live on the lower levels of ship.)

Taurus:No.

WHY!?

Taurus:No.

I need it for my work!

Taurus: Don’t ask again or I will reduce your free time. Stop being an idiot you know why you can’t touch those of the upper levels.

18:00 - 20:00 - Dinner

20:00 - 00:00 Evening Training

00:00 - 08:00 Rest/Free time


Taurus sat in his chamber, working through the schedules, adding notes to those who are falling behind and reprimanding those who break the rules. All of this is necessary to achieve their goal. All of the company are focused on the objective since Horus’ war upon the imperium, even if they follow chaos, even if they are now traitors their goal has not changed. It will not change until his lord primarch returns his legion insignia. He finished editing the last schedule as he heard his chamber doors opening. It was Gavisus and Tetricus, but he could see his company sorcerer looked concerned and Gavisus was eating a crispy like cake and drinking recaf from a travel mug. As they approached the table he folded his arms. “I assume both of you are here for something important?” Tetricus nodded, “Yes captain, I hold a message from Eidolon.” Soon as he heard his name he frowned slightly. “Hand me the letter.” Tetricus offered him the letter, as he took it he did not even give it a look before tearing it up. His company sorcerer sighed slightly “aren’t you at least curious about what the message contained?” “No.” he said firmly. He disliked Eidolon, he flaunts his rank of “lord commander” an unnecessary title that is more to boost one’s ego than serving any tactical function. His grievances with the rank also played into the reason why his insignia was taken away along with the exile of his company. As he thought of Eidolon his old sword vibrates slightly. He gripped the handle to silence it, as the blade handle sensed his touch it calmed down. “Is there anything else Tetricus?” “Well...Eidolon’s letter said to hand you his first, but the second letter is blank but I can sense sorcery about it.” He offered the letter to him. As he took it from his company sorcerer words that burned with purple fire began to line the letter.

Just looking at the handwriting despite it burning with purple fire he knew who it belonged to. He gripped the message with both hands and began reading carefully.

Dear my Little Soldier

How long has it been? How many centuries have I held your pauldron? Held your pride? Foolishness and arrogance? I wonder? Have you learned anything? Are you ready to embrace my word and will? Are you still stupid enough to think you know better than me?


The letter ended, it seems like there is meant to be more.Taurus narrowed his eyes at it. “I still think you are wrong.” he said out loud. As he spoke the letter continued, the burning lettering trailing across the paper.

How wonderful….so obsessed, so dedicated to your vision. Tell...me how did you survive the virus bombs? How did you get off world?

Taurus recalled that fateful day, he did not feel angry, he just saw that event as another challenge to prove his company. He gave a look to his blade and then to Tetricus. “Thank you.” His brother gave him a confused look. “For what?” “For saving us.” Tetricus stroked his chin “in a manner of speaking you saved us. You gave me the tools to get us off the planet.” Gavisus also spoke up while swallowing his food “Captain you were amazing as well! Smashing in our brothers faces with your scabbard!” He nodded “well...it was through all of our efforts that we survived. We prepared accordingly. The letter continued.

Ah...I see, all of you drank his wine beforehand...without my intervention. Who was it? The dark apostle? How did you give up your soul? How did you debase yourself before the prince?

Taurus chuckled “I am not weak like the others...I just continued to be who I am. I am your soldier not a dog.” Tetricus folded his arms. “Who are you speaking to?” He ignored him, he bought his eyes to the letter.

A soldier is exactly what I need...I need the perfect soldiers. This...is an order. From your lord Primarch. Head to Eidolon’s space station. You should know where it is. Complete the task he gives you, know whatever operation he gives you, he will have no input for he can turn to no one else. This mission is from me...Show me then...show me your “perfect” company.

The letter was then consumed in a purple flame, it burnt away to ashes, the grey matter dissipating in the air. He bought his gaze to Tetricus who looked concerned and Gavisus was stuffing his face full of food. “Brothers...we have orders. All of us have to step up our training.” “Ca-pta-in..wha-” His company sorcerer growled in annoyance. “Stop speaking with your mouth full!” “B-Bu-” Taurus frowned “stop talking Calor.” He swallowed the food and wiped his mouth. He nodded and continued eating in silence. “Now Tetricus and Gavisus, these orders come from our primarch. He desires our skills...our expertise.” His company sorceror smiled “it only took a few centuries.” “Yes and in those centuries we honed ourselves to a razor point. Both of you are dismissed, go and prepare yourselves and spread the word to our brothers.” They both gave a curt nod and left his chambers. Taurus rose from his seat. “It seems I have to prepare him for his role…”

Asriel twisted and turned in his bed, his saw flashes of the past, Adelram’s disappointment, his annoyance and finally the fateful day where he sealed his memories. He felt his heart breaking into a thousand shards, the weight of all his choices came crashing down upon him. “It’s...my fault.” he uttered. Then he felt himself shaking, he opened his eyes to see his captain standing over him. His face was cold. “We are starting training. Ambrosia will be there. Make sure you bring your sniper rifle.” He then walked out of his bedroom. Asriel furrowed his brow. “What? I thought…” he got out of bed he rubbed his eye. “It should be my free time at the moment…” he should feel annoyed but he knows by now that Taurus must of woken him up for a purpose. He got up from bed and grabbed his sniper rifle, he put on his shoes and left his bedroom as he entered the kitchen Taurus was there waiting for him. Asriel frowned “can you tell what this is about?” “We have orders.” Taurus said in a flat tone.

Asriel raised his eyebrow as he heard that, they are a warband, they don’t take orders. Who could spur Taurus of all people into action. “Captain, who are we getting orders from?” “It’s from my primarch.” His eyes went wide as Taurus spoke, Asriel found his lips trembling slightly. “Lord...Fulgrim? What could he want?” “Does it matter Inferus? He gave us orders and so we obey, he also expects a “show” I will show him what my company can do. Now come we must start your training now. We are going to the firing range.” Asriel slowly nodded he left the kitchen with Taurus. As they walked he wondered if he should ask questions, he was about to open his mouth but stopped. At most he won’t answer or he will be vague. So he has to do a different approach. “Captain, as a member of this company I would like to inquire more about our orders.” Taurus gave him a look, he frowned. “Eidolon will be our liaison, he will give us the details.” At the mention of the lord commanders name he began thinking that possibly he might meet Adelram again. “May you tell me where we are meeting him?” His captain nodded. “Yes I can, since the cicatrix Maledictum cut the galaxy in half many members of the third and other legions have made small fiefdoms for themselves. We are going to space station Valira it belongs to Eidolon. He has sent me an invitation in the past but reading his message shows he hasn’t learned a thing.” When he heard the name of the meeting place his heart began beating rapidly. That there is a possibility that he can meet him again. “I see..thank you for the information...captain.” Taurus gave a curt nod.

After a few minutes more of walking they stopped in front of a door. As Asriel stood in front of the door a sense of dread gripped him. His stomach began turning. “So...she is in there.” said Asriel. “Yes she is.” Taurus responded. He pressed the button to open the door, both of them stepped inside. Soon as Asriel entered he felt it, that aura, the feeling of slugs crawling on his skin. His eyes just drifted to the assassin for some reason she had bangy short hair and the grey circles around her eyes. Right away her eyes fell straight upon him. She gave me a predatory grin. She took a simple step and in reaction Asriel could not help but step behind Taurus in fear. “Don’t let her near me…” he blurted out. He found his teeth chittering slightly, Ambrosia kept walking she ignored Taurus and popped her head around him. “New meat.” her voice was cold, so cold. His captain nodded “Yes, you have another training partner. Inferus is going to practice in the range.” “That’s it?” said the assassin. “Yes and you will just watch him. Actually you will stand next to him.” As he heard the exercise Asriel relaxed slightly, it sounded simple. If he could just block her out he should be fine. He found his mouth moving by itself. “I-I can do that.” “Then do it" said Taurus. He nodded and walked over to the firing range. He got his sniper rifle ready, he pushed the button on the iron table to start the range.

All of the targets began moving, He took a deep breath and aimed down the sights, he began slowly firing. Ensuring that he hit as close to the bullseye as possible. With each round the turning in his stomach got worse, he stopped for a moment. “I jus-” “Keep going.” Taurus said firmly, “do you think the enemy will wait for you to be ready? You must focus at all times. If you faced a sister of silence you would be dead.” Asriel gripped his gut, he looked to his right to see Ambrosia smiling at him, just standing there a few paces away from him. Then he realised something, he did not even hear her move. He tried to focus he got into firing position again and continued. His breathing became hoarse, his vision blurred slightly and now his shots were going awry. He stopped again and looked to his right, Ambrosia was now closer. He shook his head “Can...you stand back slightly?” “No.” the answer was quick, he could see Taurus is getting annoyed that he stopped again. Asriel returned to firing it was now far harder, then he felt someone touching him, holding him tightly. He stopped for a third time and bought his eye away from the sights, he was face to face with the assassin. His stomach was now in upheaval, he pushed her back with great force, Asriel then dropped to his knees and vomited. He coughed slightly while shaking his head. “I-I c-can’t….” Taurus came over and knelt. “This will be your basic training everyday save your one session with Tertricus, also you have to clean up whatever comes from your stomach. A servitor will not do it for you, this...is another lesson.” He rose “it’s only been 15 minutes, you have 1 hour and 45 minutes to go Asriel.” As he mentioned the time Asriel felt his stomach turning again but what made it worse is that he called him by his name. That means he is serious. Asriel was not sure if he could endure this. He looked in the direction of Ambrosia, she was just smiling ear to ear in amusement.

This message was edited 6 times. Last update was at 2018/06/12 03:49:53


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





So they have received a mission! Wonder what it is?

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 2018/06/12 01:08:20


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 8
Asriel found his fingers trembling in his room as he got his knives ready, it’s been years since he last used such a weapon but Taurus was adamant that he should practice with them. He checked his schedule it should be about the time he should be heading to Tetricus’ abode. Asriel placed the knives into his belt and made his way out of the bedroom, he left the kitchen and began walking to the tunnel entrance. With each step he gripped his stomach slightly, it’s been two days since he started training with Ambrosia and what he found is that she has a sort of sick amusement with watching him void his bowels. He bit his thumb slightly, his mind began swimming with thoughts on possibly killing her or removing her somehow. He shook his head. “No, he would not like that…” if he even dared to do such a thing his head would be joining the others in the freezer. Recently he decided to even check the heads and the cut that severed them from their bodies was clean, far cleaner than whatever Tarkhan can do, after examining each of them despite Taurus’ appearance Asriel could only come to one conclusion. “He is a monster..” he said quietly to himself.

But what he thought was monstrous is that essentially he looks and acts against the grain of what it means to be a follower of slaanesh. Yet he is favoured, staring at him with his witch sight during their talk in his chambers his soul burnt him like a sun. He could also sense the love and approval. That feeling he sensed clinged to him tightly that said lover never wants to let him go and part of him does not want to admit that it’s the dark prince. Asriel shook his head and focused on the journey, he reached the tunnel entrance and walked inside but as he walked he kept thinking about it. His mind still wracking to make sense of the leader of this warband. Again his heart told him to accept it, but his mind still kept asking questions. Those questions kept repeating as he made his way down the tunnel, he asked himself how did he survive all these years? Which daemons has he made pacts with for his warband to endure? But what troubled him so far, from the looks of things Taurus did not have to commit such choices, hard choices both he and Adelram made in order to ensure the warband survives. That is what troubled him, he frowned as he finally reached the door to Tetricus’ abode, he opened the door and walked inside.

Oddly enough since he began his sessions with Tetricus his “sirens” no longer stared at him. They continued singing and what he found is that their voices are quite pleasant. The sound would enter your ears and swim through your entire body, tickling every single part.. He approached the table and bowed, with his first lesson Tetricus demanded that he bow before each in respect. Doing this annoyed him and part of him felt that these lessons are pointless since the sorcerer is going over the basics. “Lord Tetricus.” said Asriel, the sorcerer frowned slightly. “Right today it’s telepathy.” Asriel clenched his hands “with all due respect my lord..but telepathy? I am sure captain has updated you about my situation?” “Yes he has, trust me I would rather spend my time doing anything else. But if Taurus feels this is important I will do it.” He rose from his seat and walked over to him. “Tell me how have you used telepathy?” “Well I have used it to get people to trust me and to hide my presence, to make people think that I am not actually there.” “I see...how about implementing ideas?” “Yes I know of that technique but never used it, from what I understand it’s quite risky.” “Risky?” the sorcerer raised his eyebrow. “It’s quite a basic technique.” At the mention of basic he folded his arms. “It’s not basic my lord I-” “What do you know exactly? To reach into someone's dreams, to manipulate the heart and mind until they are your unwitting slave? Have you ever tried that?” “N-no...my lord.” “Human we go over the basics because that’s where everything we do branches from. You think that you understand sorcery and being a psyker but I let you know now that it is possible to use some measure of your power around a pariah.” That caught his attention, he had no idea that was possible. “How? they block our powers.” “Yes, certain powers. They can block sorcery and many offensive psychic powers but generally powers that affect objects or yourself can still be maintained. Hence why knowing the basics and being good at it is important. We psykers live in age where the sisters of silence are actively fighting us now.” Asriel slowly nodded, then a strange sensation began to build in his chest. It was respect, genuine respect. Again he wondered how the astartes in this warband do it.

Tetricus began chuckling, you are making the same face I did. “What?” “Tell me human when do you think I was recruited?” Asriel furrowed his brow, he has known Taurus for centuries he overhead that also if he was his old self he would hate the sorcerer with every fibre of his being. “You must of been recruited after Horus’ war upon the imperium. You ca-” “can’t what? You should know my captain by now. If he thinks something is wrong he will correct it. I was recruited before Horus declared on the imperium.” “W-what? But how?” “Yes how? You see the third “hated” psykers since if you are a psyker you are imperfect. That something is fundamentally wrong with you and there is nothing you can do to change that. Hence none were recruited.” “Taurus thought otherwise?” “Indeed, after his time with the blood angels he began to see their tactical use, the flesh tearer is quite...good at convincing Taurus that his world view on psykers and abhumans was incorrect.” “Then I assume this became a point of contention with the legion?” Tetricus nodded. “Taurus always had his grievances with how the third did things. They became obsessed with art and apperance instead of perfecting themselves as soldiers.” As he mentioned art Asriel scratched his head in confusion, he recalled seeing pieces of art in Taurus’ chambers. “But he has art hanging on his walls of his chambers” The sorcerer raised his finger. “He does not keep them for beauty, but for the techniques the artist employs he wants to see the dedication of their craft that is what he finds beauty in. I personally think the pieces he chooses look terrible.” he shrugged “anyway after meeting a certain dark apostle he finally aired his grievances to our primarch. It did not end well, but after that event I was recruited. Now I am tired of talking of that matter let’s begin our session.” “B-but I wish to kno-” “ask him yourself. The only reason why I am speaking to you in such a fashion because as I said before for some reason Taurus views you to be important considering I am wasting my time with you.” Asriel gave a curt nod, he opened his ears and listened carefully to what the sorcerer has to teach him.

Taurus moved his blade through the heads of the servitors, toppling them one by one like trees. His other arm moved making quick shots with his bolt pistol, he tried not to look at the number ticking on his tactical feed. He focused on what was in front of him, the last servitor ran forward, slashing with multiple blades, he parried each attack opening up the lumbering machine and with a swift slash removed their head. The last servitor tumbled to the ground and the timer on his tactical feed stopped. He eyed it “15 seconds….” he mumbled in annoyance, he aimed to kill all ten servitors in 10 seconds. His mind then began formulating a strategy, overlooking where he went wrong, that perhaps there was a wasted movement in his bladework. His mind kept wracking on how to reduce the time to 10 seconds as he sheathed his weapons. His other blade then began vibrating again breaking his train of thought, he gripped the handle to quieten it or him depending on one’s perspective.

He left the training hall and made his way to the bridge, he desired to check the progress of their journey. As he reached the bridge of the great bull everyone had faces to screens focusing on their respective stations, even his presence was not enough to deter them from their work. He would offer a comment of praise for their diligence but he did not desire to distract them. Taurus looked up to the command throne, the one he put in charge of controlling the bridge. He was a young man from the lower levels, but among the muck a diamond was found. He oddly learned things quickly and was ready to adapt to any situation.

He also learned to pilot and command ships in months, he had no idea if he was blessed by the gods but he had a natural talent. “Sagax.” he said his nickname out loud his eyes did not leave the command throne screen. “Yes my lord?” Taurus could see a flicker of annoyance in his brown eyes, the fact that he is annoyed that he distracted him from his work is something he found to be a good thing. “Do you have an estimate of when we are arriving to the space station?” The commander of the bridge frowned. “Going by the reports of the navigator we should arrive in 3-4 days. Now...” “I know I will let you work.” he turned away and left the bridge, soon as he entered the hallway Ambrosia was there, resting her back on the wall. “What is it?” said Taurus. The assassin gave him a look of annoyance. “Tell me what’s the point of training the new meat?” “Is there a problem?” “yes there is, at least the sorcerer tries. He holds an air of arrogance about everything.” “That is just due to the old warband he was a part of. Do not worry I have everything under control.” She was about to speak but closed her mouth. She walked away without another word.

Taurus watched her leave, he recalled when he found her, the task force that was sent to end his life. To the assassins horror he ended all of them and oddly he kept her alive. He saw a use for her abilities and for several months after he captured her she tried to kill him. Every time she failed again and again, until eventually she broke down and he offered his hand. More than anything he could see she was fascinated with him, someone who does not react in horror or disgust due to her presence. Taurus imagined being a culexus assassin to be a terrible existence, no drives, no goals they are just viewed as an abnormal weapon to be let loose by the imperium. He folded his arms “I wonder what sort of mission we are going on?” He began walking back to the training hall, now lost in thought.

The docking bay doors opened, he stood with his lord as the slaves in leather spiked suits began walking unto the station chanting his lord's name while pink smog trailed out. All of them followed after the slaves as they stepped onto the station everyone was staring at them in awe. A stark contrast to the past. “Look at them Marthas, how they gawk at us...how they admire us…” Marthas sweeped his eyes over the astartes and slaves. All of their eyes were on his lord. The changes wrought upon his flesh even captivated him. Adelram has black horns which are sprouting from his head, his white hair now shimmers and his face causes even mortals to weep in desire. Even his feet were now hooves, fused with his power. But his lord is far more great and graceful in battle. “Their eyes are upon you as it should be.” He said firmly. Marthas lumbered forward in his terminator armour, the censer swaying with each step, bellowing out pink mist. He then bought his eyes to Tarkhan who stood at the ready watching for any threats but he knows there is only one on this station who can threaten his lord, the rest are ants compared to his power and splendor. Izel chuckled “Still I wonder why he has called us?” “I do not know.” said Adelram “But be aware the lord commander does not request a chaos lord’s presence without a reason.” Marthas nodded in agreement “yes, I agree I suspect he has a task for us. It’s a shame Kaiser prefers to stay in the dark. He needs to get out more.” “Indeed but who am I to deny his joy? Now come we should not keep Eidolon waiting.” Adelram said in amusement.

As they walked past their slaves many tried to reach up to touch them, to even get a whiff of their scent. Some even fainted with his lord placing his eyes upon them. They walked through the station everyone’s gazes are still locked upon them. Until they reached the doors of Eidolon’s chambers all of them stepped inside and looked upon the lord commander, sitting on his throne he was in discussion with a sorcerer. Right away Marthas could see his mood is sour. Adelram gave a small bow “Lord commander….” Eidolon stopped his conversation and turned his head to them. “The harbingers of sin.” he grinned “How have your recent conquests been?” His lord returned his smile. “Wonderful, turning a population into performance enhancing drugs? Mutilating and difling priests and shrine worlds? It’s been grand lord commander.” Eidolon nodded. “This is good, but now why I called you here.” He gestured to the sorcerer, he began an incantation and summoned an image of a planet. “This planet is Vikitros. There is nothing upon it save a fortress, but what is within said fortress our father desires it….” Marthas narrowed his eyes, the fact that Fulgrim wanted whatever is inside most mean the planet is incredibly important.

The lord commander continued “I sent host upon host to attack the world but they come back broken...or they don’t return at all.” Adelram stroked his chin with his clawed gauntlet. “So you want my warband to take it?” “Yes, but you will not be doing this by yourself.” His lord raised his eyebrow in confusion. “With all due respect but we are more than capable to do it ourselves.” As Adelram spoke, Marthas could see that his lord did not want to share the glory with another warband. Nor did he. Eidolon then sighed wearily “we don’t have much choice in the matter, our….father said he desires the “captain” of the 4th company to take the fortress and deliver the prize.” Marthas could detect some venom as he mentioned captain it’s clear that he dislikes whoever is charge of the warband. “Hmm, I heard of the 4th company but I am not aware of who leads it.” “It’s no surprise that is the case, he was sent away shortly after we became a proper legion again. But the question is...how he did survive the purge?” All of his brothers began murmuring, Adelram looked concerned. “So...they somehow survived Istvaan III?” “Yes, his foolish ideas and along with his isurbodiantion made our father exile him. Istvaan III was the chance to end him but his company survived.” Eidolon traced his finger along his scar. “Despite all of that...he still lives. I called you because I require...loyal members of the third to ensure our father gets his prize. He will arrive soon so for now enjoy the bounties of my station.” Adelram smiled and gave a small bow. “Thank you lord commander, once the traitor arrives I will ensure he does his task.” Eidolon gave a curt nod “Good, now leave I must discuss further details with my sorcerer.” Adelram turned away from the throne, we all followed him out of Eidolon’s chambers. Marthas smiled “a fortress? Sounds interesting.” His lord nodded in agreement. “Indeed it does Marthas, but I am curious about the captain of the 4th company.” Izel shook his head “who cares about him? Eidolon called us because we are reliable. I imagine if he steps out of line the lord commander wouldn’t mind if we kill him.” Adelram frowned at Izel. “Don’t be too hasty, our father requested his presence so he should have some measure of skill.” His lord began walking, he turned his head back slightly “I can’t wait to meet him…”


   
Made in ca
Longtime Dakkanaut






Toronto

This will be interesting... Haha I hope Taurus is able to survive.

Adepta Sororitas: 3,800 Points
Adeptus Custodes: 8,100 Points
Adeptus Mechanicus: 8,400 Points
Alpha Legion: 4,400 Points
Astra Militarum: 7,500 Points
Dark Angels: 16,800 Points
Imperial Knights: 12,500 Points
Legio Titanicus: 5,500 Points
Slaaneshi Daemons: 3,800 Points
 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 9
Taurus walked to the docking bay with Tetricus and Gavisus, they have now arrived at their destination but there was annoyance. He looked back slightly to see Inferus pleading to let him come, to the point he almost begged. “Captain, I must come with you!” “No.” he said firmly. “Why not!?” He had his reasons, he knows why he is so desperate. “You think he might be here?” Inferus cast his eyes away, that said everything. “I want you to go back to training.” “Bu-” “Now Asriel.” Taurus raised his voice slightly. His company chef shook his head he stopped walking and slowly he vanished as they gained some distance. Gavisus chuckled “that wasn’t nice…” “I can’t have him getting distracted.” “Right, but I wonder captain why bother training him at all? We just need him to make food.” Tetricus nodded in agreement. “I agree, do you have some plan in the works?” “In a manner of speaking I do, considering Inferus’ past he has a history of fighting. I want to make use of that.” His company sorcerer narrowed his eyes at him. “You gave him a nickname?” he completely ignored his reasoning and focused on the fact he gave Asriel a nickname. “Is there a problem brother?” He sighed slightly in return. “No...I won’t doubt, you have a plan.” he then faced forward continued walking in silence. Eventually they reached the docking bay and approached the airlock doors. They slid open and all of them walked through as the doors opened to space station Valira all of the members of the third present stared at him. Their eyes were placed upon his chest, he looked down to the gleaming palatine aquila, he shrugged and made his way to Eidolon’s chambers with his brothers. Tetricus frowned “I remember the last time we came here…” Gavisus smiled “Eidolon tried to order us around...but you refused didn’t you captain?” “I did, he sent two warbands after us when we left due to the insult. We ended them.” “That we did!” said Gavisus. The sorcerer sighed heavily “Taurus our lives will be easier i-” “I won’t deface my armour and my stance with Eidolon won’t change.” he said firmly. His brother shrugged in resignation “very well…” As they got to the doors, Taurus pushed them open and walked inside with his brothers. He could see that Eidolon was in discussion with a leader of another warband and a sorcerer. Taurus approached the throne “Hello Eidolon.” His opaque eyes fell upon him. “Lord commander Eidolon.” he hissed at him. “We are both captains.” “Yes and you serve me as I am your lord commander.” Taurus could see he was on edge, his voice was firm but he did not raise his voice either.

He bought his eyes to the warband leader, he had long white hair, horns and his armour held garish colours. But he wielded a massive mace like weapon. He smiled at him. “So this is the captain of the 4th.” “Yes, this is captain Cornelius of the 4th company. Exiled for thinking he knows better than our father.” “Your father” said Taurus. He could see Eidolon is now grinding his teeth, the warband leader frowned at him in clear annoyance. “So tell me Eidolon who is this?” Eidolon nodded “This is Lieutenant Adelram of the 11th company also known as the lord of sin. Unlike you he respects our father and his wisdom. He has come far unlike you.” The name caused him to raise his eyebrow, he looked Adelram up and down. So this is him. The lord of sin curled his lip in disgust “I can’t believe I was interested in meeting you. It seems you are disrespectful and ugly.” “Well beauty is the eye of the beholder when I look at you? I see a slave.” Adelram took a step forward, eldritch energy began thrumming through his body. “You insult my dedication to the dark prince!?” “Yes I am, for he will twist you inside out and then discard you. Or perhaps my lord primarch will do it.” The lord of sin unsheathed his weapon, Eidolon raised his hand. “Enough.” Adelram gave him a look. “But!” “Enough!” he shouted. The lord of sin returned to his position, he his hand still gripped his weapon. Taurus looked up to Eidolon. “Our lord primarch gave me a mission. I assume you know the parameters?” “Yes I do.” he gestured to the sorcerer. “Show him.” The sorcerer summoned an image of the planet. “This is Vikitros, our father desires a prize that is contained within the fortress, you will retrieve it and bring it here.” Taurus walked up to the image. “I see, can the sorcerer zoom in?” Eidolon gave a curt nod, the image changed and displayed a large fortress. Every inch of the wall is mounted with anti aircraft guns, the walls are manned by imperial fists and a imperial guard regiment by his observation. “I can do it.” Taurus said firmly, he knew that his brothers most likely hurled themselves at the walls without a thought. He can now see why Fulgrim turned to him. “Right we are leaving.” “Wait.” said Eidolon. “Adelram’s warband will go with you.” “I don’t need his help.” “I insist.” the “lord commander” said firmly. “Our general said you have no input in his letter. I do not desire his presence.” at the mention of having no input Eidolon rose from this throne. “He said that!?” “Yes, he did.” “Now how long does it normally take to get to Vikitros?” Eidolon calmed himself and sat on his throne. “About a week.” “Right, we will take the fortress in two days after we arrive.” Everyone gasped in the hall save his brothers, the “lord commander” shook his head in amusement. “Assaulting such a fortress would take weeks...not days.” Taurus bought up two fingers. “I can take the fortress in two days, my company can do it. Now is there anything else?” He could see Adelram body language is stuck in a mix of fury and surprise, Eidolon seemed assured of his death. “Go then, I expect you back in two weeks and two days.” He nodded and began leaving the hall with his brothers but he stopped and turned his head back slightly to the lord of sin. “Asriel gives his regards.” His eyes went wide, it was not shock but he could see a huge range of emotions was playing across his face but it was mainly anger. He left the lord of sin with that emotion as he left Eidolon’s chambers.

Asriel fired at the range, Ambrosia’s presence was a distraction but he got use to it in time. But he was distracted, there might of been a chance that he was there. Why wouldn’t he let me come along? His thoughts trailed across his brain. He then felt someone hitting him across the head causing his shot to veer off. He frowned and lowered the sniper rifle. “Ambrosia what is it?” The assassin shook her head. “You are distracted, distractions can get you killed.” He thought to bark back at her but he took a deep breath. “I am distracted.” she raised her eyebrow at him in surprise. “You admitting a fault? That is surprising.” “Well Taurus must be training me for a reason, he could have me cook all day but he doesn’t. He wants me here so I will wait for him to explain why. No-” The door to the training hall suddenly opened, Taurus was there. “Inferus come and Ambrosia? Tetricus is waiting for you in the usual place.” Asriel furrowed his brow. “What is going on.” “No questions said Taurus, just follow.” He left the room, the assassin gave a small shrug, Asriel strapped the sniper rifle to his back and jogged out of the room. He saw Taurus outside with a chalkboard. “What is this?” said Asriel. “Follow me.” his captain began pushing the chalkboard, he did as he was ordered and followed.

They walked in silence, Asriel wondered what was going on, the fact that he is here must mean they are done with their business on space station Valira. “Captain, have you been to the station?” He said nothing, he kept pushing the chalkboard in silence, Asriel looked around and he could see that they are heading in the direction that leads to Tetricus’ abode. As they got to the door leading to the tunnel, Taurus pressed the button to open the door, they continued walking down the tunnel. His captain did not say a word.“Taurus why are we here?” asked Asriel. Again nothing so he decided to keep quiet until Taurus reveals the purpose of coming here. They soon reached the door to the sorcerer's room and both of them walked inside. But what was odd is that the siren’s were not singing, Asriel guessed it’s because Tetricus is not here. Taurus walked to the middle of the chamber pushing aside the table, Asriel followed and stood behind his captain. He then released his grip on the chalkboard and nodded. His eyes scanned each siren and names began spilling from his lips. “Lani’thya, Sithilim, Dol’isha….” as he spoke each name the sirens bought their attention to Taurus. As he finished speaking the last name suddenly their bodies began distorting showing more of their daemonic nature, hands turned into crab claws, black horns grew from metal faceplates and they strained on the chains shrieking, begging to be close to his captain. Asriel raised his eyebrow. “W-what did you do?” “I just got their attention.” “Now silence all of you!” the sirens stopped at his order, just by their mouths movements they were quivering. Taurus nodded “I want all of you to conjure an image of Vikitros, I want to see the fortress, the people and those who lead!” his voice was carried across the room and to his surprise the daemonhosts obeyed. They began singing a high pitched song and the image of a large fortress was conjured. Taurus then bought out a piece of chalk from his belt and began writing on the board looking at the fortress from time to time. “Captain can you please tell me what is going on?” Asriel was still confused. He stopped writing. “Formulating a plan to take this fortress in two days. You and Ambrosia will be important.” He gazed at the fortress in shock, just glancing at it he knows it’s impossible to take such a large fortress in two days. “May I ask how?” Taurus stopped for a moment. “The mistake my “brothers” made is trying to engage in siege warfare hence why they did not get anywhere. Astartes are not siege specialists.” Asriel raised his eyebrow. “What of the iron warriors and imperial fists?” his captain stopped writing again. “They tried to get good at it but do remember the resources that one has available to them now. Back during the great crusade we were legion, we had the numbers and resources but these days?” He wrote a number on the blackboard. “Most warbands have 100 astartes which is about the strength of a company. Now in siege warfare generally the defender has the advantage via supplies and manpower. Think about it as you can see by the conjured image the wall has AA guns, heavy bolters, astartes and the imperial guard manning the walls.” Asriel nodded in understanding “if we assault normally it will be bloody.” Taurus smiled “Exactly, so the first day will be important. That’s where you and Ambrosia will come in.”

Staring at the board Asriel could see he is writing a detailed plan and drawing a layout of the fortress. Taurus began speaking while writing “so Inferus, pay attention to what I will now say. You will update Ambrosia on this information and...I am having a suit of armour prepared for you.” Asriel smiled at the prospect of new gear, but he decided to pay attention to what Taurus has to say to him. “I am all ears captain.” “Good, now listen carefully…”

Tetricus stood in the war room, it was bustling with all of his brothers, they just dropped out of the warp and what has him curious is how they are going to take a fortress in two days. He did not react when he announced such a thing to Eidolon, he knew his captain if he said he is going to do something he will do it. He looked over to Gavisus who is smiling ear to ear in excitement. “Tetricus..aren’t you excited? Taking a fortress in two days? This...will be interesting.” He could not help but nod in agreement. “Taurus always has a plan. I am eager to see what he has in mind for this war.” The war room doors then opened everyone turned to the doors and it was his captain, he was wheeling in the chalkboard, he placed the board in front of the war room screen and then nodded. Tetricus could see some measure of confusion but he was used to this by now. His captain called out. “Everyone’s attention upon me!” everyone glued their eyes to Taurus, he then flipped the board displaying a detailed drawing of the fortress, along with faces and crosses upon them. He then went into his pouch and pulled out a small extendable metal rod. “Right, we are now discussing the plan to take the fortress in two days.” At the announcement of two days some of his brothers began murmuring, he guessed these are the recent recruits. One raised his hand “Captain….why aren’t you using the war room screen I am sure you could produce a far more detailed diagram of the fortress with it.” Taurus looked at the astartes like he said something stupid, he ignored the question. “Now as I said we are discussing the plan to take the fortress.” He placed the rod on the anti air guns. “This is the main problem, these guns on the walls would shoot down any drop pods or thunderhawks that get near the fortress. Also…” he placed the rod on the crossed out faces. “These are the leaders of those who man said fortress. The first is Captain Logithius of the imperial fists, the second? Liberian Javier.” He then placed the rod on a human face. “The leader of the imperial guard regiment is General Carlos.” Gavisus raised his hand. “So I assume we have to take out the leaders and AA guns to have an easier time taking the fortress and I assume we are not handling that part of the plan?” Taurus nodded in agreement. “Yes.” he placed the rod on the fortress. “Inferus and Ambrosia will be spending the first day disabling the defences and assassinating the leaders of the defenders. I spent the last week learning of their movements and Asriel assures me he can destroy the AA guns along with the heavy bolters that man the walls.” As soon as he said that he learned of their movements, Tetricus furrowed his brow. He raised his hand. “Did you use my sirens behind my back again?” His captain looked at him. “Yes.” Tetricus sighed heavily.

He folded his arms. “Can’t you at least tell me?” “Why?” “They are daemonhosts!? Something could go wrong!” Taurus stroked his chin. “They are always quite eager to help me so I use them.” Tetricus sighed again “nevermind…” His captain continued. “Now Sagax will drop them off a few clicks away from the fortress under the cover of night. Then they will scale the wall via a blind spot and infiltrate the fortress and begin the operation. On the second day I will lead an on the assault the fortress using the rain of fire formation with half of the company.” Taurus then pointed the rod at him. “Tetricus you will lead the other half of the warband on the ground with the predators and sirens.” Tetricus nodded, the plan was sound but he had one question. He raised his hand. “So how will the infiltrators notify you that their task is complete?” “They won’t, we will attack the fortress on the second day at 12 am sharp.” Tetricus shook his head. “Bu-” “The plan will succeed.” his captain said firmly. He knew that Taurus could not fathom failure he had absolute faith in both Asriel and Ambrosia. His captain then called out. “All of you are dismissed! ready yourselves for war!” Everyone began leaving the room he did have some small amount of worry but as always Taurus knew what he was doing.


Asriel ran with Ambrosia towards the blind spot in the cover of night, in a few hours it will be 12 am. At the same time he tried not to look at Ambrosia, the strange contraption on her head caused his skin to crawl. So he focused on himself and the task, firstly the armour his wearing is quite light despite it being carapace armour and the task? He could not help think it was pure madness. But oddly it was sound if what they do here goes well. Their part was the most important in a sense they will make the assault possible. Using the hills for cover both of them approached the blind spot. Asriel looked up the wall he noted this is the worst part. Asriel got his knives ready, they began glowing purple with purple energy he stood in front of the wall and focused. He felt Ambrosia wrapping her arms around his neck and holding tightly.

He grit his teeth and began scaling the wall with the knives. The blades easily melted into the wall along with using biomancy to aid in strength and fatigue reduction. As he slowly went up the wall, now it dawned upon him why Taurus had Ambrosia there while he was training in the range. His old self would not be able to even handle the assassin touching him. He found himself smiling as he went up the wall, in a couple of minutes they reached the top. As they flipped over they were near stairs heading down, despite being crouched he could see the fortress building. It was covered in gothic and mechanics sigils, Asriel wondered what is exactly within this fortress. He then turned in Ambrosia’s direction she vanished. He chuckled silently to himself. She has already went to work. He thought to himself.

Asriel took a deep breath, he used telepathy to push people’s notice away from him a common technique he used to move around. He remained crouched and began moving down the wall, he passed imperial soldiers who paid him no mind at most they rub the back of their necks as always. Even the imperial fist astartes did not notice him. He came across the first heavy bolter, in a gap he planted a knife. He then moved to the first AA gun and did the same. So far things are easy, he got to the last AA gun but as he was moving an astartes rubbed his neck and turned in his direction. He pointed his bolter at him. Sweat trailed down his brow, he could see his finger moving to press the trigger. Asriel pushed his thoughts into the astartes head +no one is here, it’s just your imagination. Focus on your duty.+ He could see the astartes is struggling but luckily he turned back to his original position. Asriel gave a small sigh of relief, he placed the last knife and nodded. Now it’s time to infiltrate the fortress and make a kill.

His mind began swimming, but all he sensed is doom and death which was odd and he could see a skull hanging over the fortress. Since in the last few days they threw back a traitor assault, the future should be favourable. Javier tried to focus while meditating to divine the meaning of why this is happening. Despite the victory he can’t see anything favourable in their future. He opened his eyes, sweat lining his brow. “I should inform the captain, we must be alert.” He rose from his cross legged position and turned towards the door. But there was someone there, a woman in a black suit wearing a strange contraption on head that is shaped like a skull. Javier readied his force staff. He tried to summon his psychic powers but nothing would come at most a pabalbe sense of dread gripped him. So he charged, the intruder got into a battle stance and the servos within her helmet began spinning as black energy leaped from her frame and crashed into his body. Javier screamed but then another wave slammed into him, blood began trailing down his nose and eyes. All of this was happening to him and he could do nothing. He could not feel the psychic energy that normally grips his body, he could feel nothing at all.

Carlos went over the reports, the amount of dead from the last attack and their current resources. The attacks have been unrelenting by the heretical traitor forces, it’s clear they want access to the vault, he does not know what’s within it but it’s important enough to require the aid of a company of imperial fists. That aid is something he is thankful for, it’s their presence that ensured many of his men are able to see the next day but they must remain alert an attack could come at any moment. Carlos then rubbed his neck he could feel a slight cold breeze as a hand was suddenly placed on his mouth, he could then feel a stinging sensation gripping his neck. His eyes diverted down to see blood pouring down his armour. He struggled for his life but all he could do is let loose a muffled scream.

Asriel now stood on the roof of the fortress holding his sniper rifle, he could see the soldiers and astartes are running around getting into defensive positions. He guessed that they have now discovered both his and Ambrosia’s work. He killed general Carlos and she took care of liberian Javier. He then began aiming down the sights and scanned the walls of the fortress and then he spotted him the captain of company, captain Logithius. He could clearly see the icy fury on his face, he assumed he was friends with the liberian. In the end it did not matter, he won’t see honorable combat or get to fight for the emperor either. Asriel found his heart beginning to beat faster, he was excited he wondered what expressions his fellow astartes will make, their captain ripped from them and they could do nothing about it.

His lips began quivering, he bought his head back and shook his head. “Focus.” he said quietly to himself the act of killing of will feel far more better. He aimed down the sights again and before shooting he began to chant. A normal sniper round would not kill an astartes, even if it was a headshot. More has to be done, pink wisps started to crawl on the surface of the weapon. He lined up the shot, making sure to take the wind direction, movement and recoil into account. Once he was satisfied he fired, the head of the captain exploded in a brilliant pink light and all he could feel as he watched the captain’s body toppling to the floor is elation, the panic caused a great grin to line his lips. “Time to move.” he turned away his part done in the operation, now he has to remain hidden until the assault is done.

Taurus stood in the thunderhawk with Gavisus and several other astartes, the appointed time has come. At the moment he is blinking running checks through his tactical feed to ensure that the jump pack attached to his armour is ready to be used. He then heard a call from the pilot “Captain, the AA guns are turning in our direction. Should I engage evasive maneuvers?” As the pilot spoke he could see his brothers fidgeting slightly. “No, remain on course.” “Yes...captain.” said the pilot. Gavisus frowned “maybe the human and the abomination failed?” “They won’t fail.” said Taurus. His brother was about to open his mouth to speak again until they heard several muffled explosions, Gavisus closed his mouth and took a step back. Taurus allowed himself to smile. “Open the landing bay doors! Get ready to jump!” At his order the doors slowly began opening, all of them ran forward and jumped. They were right above the walls and he could see the enemy were in disarray, the astartes were trying to control the situation but the mortals were panicking. He could see from the other thunderhawks those in his group have leapt from their respective thunderhawks. Taurus opened his communication line with all of them. “Engage the rain of fire formation!” all of them in a clockwork motion drew bolters and bolt pistols. They unloaded their magazines down towards the imperial forces.

Before they even landed many were cut down by bolt-reactive shells, they did not even get the chance to look up. Half the company landed across the fortress, his squad landed on the walls, Taurus used the jetpack to break his fall. He unclipped the jetpack and drew his sabre he pointed at the remainder that were alive. “Kill them! Show them what it means to stand against the third!” He ran forward with his squad, the first enemy a human scrambled to aim with his plasma gun, Taurus shot the guardsman in the head with his bolt pistol. The second was an imperial fist astartes, he ran towards him wielding a bolt pistol and chainsword. Taurus shook his head, with one hand his threw his blade. The weapon impaled the face the imperial fist who toppled to the ground. He shot another human and as he passed the astartes he killed without barely looking he grabbed his blade and removed the head of another mortal that crossed his path.

As they worked down the wall he sliced and shot anyone that dared to stop him. Gavisus then ran up to him. “Erm...captain?” “Don’t distract me Calor.” said Taurus. “It’s not that...but...we haven’t done anything yet. Can you at least save something for us?” Taurus allowed himself a brief moment to look around they were near the end of the wall. There were no enemies in front of him. He looked back to see the path they ran is drenched in blood and limbs. Body parts are are also scattered everywhere. He stopped running and so did his squad. He wondered if he should apologise, but decided against it. “How come you couldn’t kill anything?” Gavisus shook his head the servo’s of his helmet winding at the motion. “We couldn’t we would aim at someone and you would shoot them before we can do anything. Your..prowess caused the enemy to focus upon you but that did not stop you. At least the blood looks nice on your armour.” Taurus looked down to himself, he was drenched in blood. He did not even notice. “Well the captain must be the pinnacle of the company.” Gavisus nodded “oh yes, we are all actually impressed.” “It’s good that you are for you must try to reach it.” “I see b-” “Don’t say can’t, never say that.”

He sighed and walked over towards the side of the wall that has the fortress building. He did not want Gavisus to distract him from the battle. Looking down he could see his brothers are sweeping over the enemy, but what annoyed him is that he saw that some of his brothers have been killed. “We must do more.” Gavisus stood at his side. “But we are clearly winning.” “Yes, I only estimated 2% of our forces should of been killed. Scanning below I see 5% to 8% percent.” Taurus then heard the song of the siren greet his ears, the door of the fortress was blown open and their predators along with the rest of their forces came in. “I underestimated the enemy more of the ground forces should of been part of our group.” He eyed the broken doors. Tetricus entered with the vehicles, the song of the chained sirens was causing the reminder of the mortal army to drop their weapons and charge towards the daemonhosts in a mad frenzy of desire. But they never get close, they were gunned down while howling in pleasure or singing the words expressed by the sirens. He faced his brother “essentially the fortress is now ours, come let us collect Lord Fulgrim’s prize.” He began walking to the steps Gavisus nodded and followed “captain do we have time for a victory celebration?” Taurus thought about it for a moment. “Yes, despite my grievances the company did well. We took the fortress far more quicker than expected.” at his confirmation those that followed him began cheering in excitement.

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 2018/06/15 14:31:27


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 10
Asriel stood with Ambrosia within the fortress, the assassin’s back was to the wall and Asriel stood attention, they were waiting for Taurus. He said he would meet them here. They watched as the astartes were dragging away imperial guardsmen into the darkness, screaming for their lives. Asriel was used to this he could see Ambrosia was not by her body language. She is clearly trying to detach herself. “Is something wrong?” “Yes and no, it’s more confusing.” “What is confusing?” “The torturing and maiming of soldiers so the astartes can engage in hedonism? That is quite confusing.” Asriel furrowed his brow slightly. “It’s not confusing, the warband does not worship the emperor.” “That is evident I am just wondering why Taurus allows it.” A scream of anguish greeted Asriel’s ears, he held his sniper rifle tightly the need to leave this position consumed utterly it’s been a long time since has done anything of that nature. He took a deep breath “Taurus does not worship the emperor either.” “I know, but he is different. Not once have I seen him engage in these...victory celebrations. Taurus is efficient he has focus unlike the rest. All of them should be that way.” “Or perhaps he experiences no joy until he gets what he wants. As you said for many it’s quite base but he desires the best company. Would maiming and defiling people get him that?” “True, but the question is why everyone else follows him.” Asriel could now see that Ambrosia is an outsider, it’s clear she has been with the warband longer but she knows nothing about them.

He nodded “it’s...respect. It’s the simple fact that Taurus is doing all these things and you can only ask yourself is how? How is he doing this? Why is he not like us? All these questions play in your head again and again. But for us it’s clear we can see he is favoured, so how can we exactly judge him for not being a specific way?” The assassin chuckled “those that judged him are now dead.” “Yes, Griffin and his supporters. Do you know what? I think he was jealous I recall he said that he said everything about him is ugly but I disagree I can’t see that. Now-” before he could finish he heard large footsteps, out of the darkness of the hallway he spotted Taurus walking with the warband apothecary. He could see both of them were signing which was strange “What do you think is in the vault Taurus?” “I don’t know, the image did not show that but whatever is in it must be important.” Both astartes approached them, his captain gave both him and Ambrosia a curt nod. “Both of you follow.” said Taurus. So they fell in behind him. He had a good guess where they are going. Silentus and Taurus continued to talk “Are you really going to deliver whatever is in that vault?” “That is what our primarch wants Silentus, he gave us a mission we must complete it.” “I see, but I want to discuss something else.” Asriel can see that Taurus is now concerned. “What is it?” “I wish to speak of the gods again.” “I do not.” “But I do, I wish to ask have any of the others tempted you? I do recall you aren’t marked yet.” Asriel’s eye grew wide with that information. He looked at Taurus waiting for his answer he was silent all the way to the vault, but Silientus was still expecting an answer.

His captain looked up to the giant vault “Inferus open it.” “Errr how?” “With sorcery of course.” Asriel slung his sniper rifle over his shoulder. Such an answer would be obvious, he placed his hand on the vault and began charging it with eldritch energy, slowly the white metal turned purple, almost like glass. He turned his head back slightly to see both of them are still talking signing at each other. “Taurus, you don’t make deals with the gods are you truly devoted to the dark prince?” Asriel could see Taurus is taking time to respond. “I am. I know I am.” “Then why aren’t you like the rest of us?” “I don’t know.” “So you aren’t marked and you don’t understand why you haven’t changed. From the looks of things it seems you haven’t chosen a path yet.” Taurus signed back firmly “I have chosen my path.” “It’s not the path of the dark prince. Not yet.” The apothecary eyed one of Taurus’ swords, the blade he has never seen him use. “You haven’t used that weapon since the scouring. Why?” “Why not? It has sentimental value.” “No...we have been together far too long. I was there before Gavisus or Tetricus, I can see why you don’t want me on the battlefield.” Taurus quickly signed back “You are too important.” “Or you fear to lose what remains of this shattered company, but I am also lost, it just seems you haven’t chosen the pit to jump in yet. So back to my original question has any of the four save the dark prince approached you?” Asriel watched Taurus slowly sign. “The blood god.” If Asriel was not wearing his helmet they would see his mouth has fallen agape.

The thought that the blood god is interested in Taurus is impossible he looked at his soul, he felt the approval, how his soulfire radiated unless….he watched Silentus shake his head. “Essnetially they are competing, the dark prince and the blood god, let me guess it has something to do with your sword?” Taurus slowly nodded. “I see, I just hope you make the right decision when it comes to choose.” “I have chosen.” Taurus signed. “You have chosen not to commit, but I tell you that our brothers would not stand for this if the blood god is sniffing out your soul.” Taurus was about to sign, but the vault began crumbling into purple dust. Asriel nodded “captain it’s open.” Taurus came forward “good, now we can collect what we need and leave.” All of them entered the vault and what they found is that they have walked into a storage room full of strange organs. Asriel looked around, Silentus quickly signed at Taurus “It’s gene-seed!” he quickly grabbed one off the shelf and began scanning it with a strange device. Taurus folded his arms “who does it belong to?” the device chimed and the apothecary lowered it. He then signed firmly “It belongs to the third.” Taurus chuckled “so this is prize our primarch desires…well then time to off load it.” He left the vault with Silentus, but he stood still his mind was far more concerned about Taurus’ spiritual issue.

Ambrosia walked up to him. “I know you understood everything they said, I did too.” “I have no idea what you are talking about.” “Don’t lie, but now we know why Taurus acts the way he does. One of the dark powers could of given him a strong and young body from what I understand both dark gods would do such a thing. But the question is which one did it?” Asriel shook his head “I-it’s obviously the dark prince.” “I doubt it.” “What do you know? I follow the dark gods I-” “I have killed many of the dark gods followers, he has not been beautified I imagine he looks exactly like the day he left terra after the unification wars.” “Think of how he fights and how he acts. I imagine the dark god of blood and war would like a dedicated company. It might not be this one, but if he owns Taurus he would get it.” Now Asriel understood the possibility of that happening and the added fact he won’t be weighed down by the nails that infests the world eater legion which keeps them from getting things done. “Fine, I accept it. But what do you expect me to do?” “Nothing I just find it quite interesting.” She then left him alone in the vault. He looked down towards the ground “what would be the right thing to do?” he said to himself. For now Asriel decided to keep this information to himself, as Silentus said what he now learned is dangerous. There is no way to know how the warband would react to such a revelation.

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 2018/06/15 23:31:21


 
   
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Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





A short BUT an important chapter. A very important chapter.
   
Made in ca
Longtime Dakkanaut






Toronto

Hmmm. Foreshadowing much? Haha, I look forward to the rest of it very much.

Adepta Sororitas: 3,800 Points
Adeptus Custodes: 8,100 Points
Adeptus Mechanicus: 8,400 Points
Alpha Legion: 4,400 Points
Astra Militarum: 7,500 Points
Dark Angels: 16,800 Points
Imperial Knights: 12,500 Points
Legio Titanicus: 5,500 Points
Slaaneshi Daemons: 3,800 Points
 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





lliu wrote:
Hmmm. Foreshadowing much? Haha, I look forward to the rest of it very much.


Indeed! Can't wait to show you where I am going to take the story. Mwhahahahaha
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 11
Taurus watched from the bridge as the ship docked with space station Valira, he has arrived back in time. Two weeks and two days. He has proved the worth of his company. He did what the others could not. But then his blade began vibrating violently, he placed his hand upon the handle to calm it. Yet it kept shaking, due to his past experience using it, the only way it could talk is when it is drawn oddly enough. He squeezed the handle tighter, but as he did so a cool and firm voice passed through his mind, it’s been centuries since he last heard it. +They will betray you...kill them...take their skulls.+ “Shut up!” he hissed at the blade. Everyone on the bridge kept to work not caring what he says, something he is thankful for. The blade stopped vibrating and no more words came from it. He released his grip and sighed slightly. At times he wonders why he keeps it. It was a gift from his lord primarch, it holds great sentimental value but the power of blade helped them survive istvaan III and the scouring. Such power might be needed one day, he did not know when but he does not desire to risk it. Sagax looked away from the command throne screen “the ship is docking, I think you should get the shipment ready.” Taurus nodded “Yes, I am eager to see Eidolon’s reaction since I smashed aside his doubt in the ability of my company.” He turned away and sent a message for Gavisus and Tetricus to meet him at the docking bay.
He began the journey to the area, the journey was uneventful until his blade started to vibrate again. He gripped it and the voice passed through his mind again. +Your brothers are not soldiers...there is only one being who can give you what you need.+ Taurus quickly removed his hand, the blade stopped it’s movement yet it continued to talk. +I can make you a great general and warrior, khorne needs warriors not butchers. He needs soldiers not raiders..+ Just for a fraction of a second he thought that offer was enticing but dismissed it. He wondered why is the sword talking in such a fashion now? When he used it in the past he never talked this much. He sent his thoughts to the blade I do business with someone else, in return all he got is a cold chuckle.

A part of him wanted Tetricus to take a look at the blade, but he recalled the conversation with Silentus, his brothers would not like it. They are his brothers but unlike him they are now fanatics, he can see that fanaticism in Gavisus and his skin hobby. He took a deep breath “I can endure this...I am the captain of this company. I can endure anything for them..” “Endure what?” He flicked behind him to see Ambrosia standing there. “It’s nothing.” The assassin frowned “I can read sign language.” Taurus eyes went wide, his hand was going to reach for her throat but held back. “So you know.” “I do, don’t worry I will keep it a secret. You are the only one who has some respect for themselves.” Taurus relaxed slightly. “I thank you for your discretion Ambrosia.” She folded her arms. “But...I somewhat agree with the apothecary you should get rid of the sword if it is causing you problems.” “This blade saved us.” “Do you need saving? Does anyone?” “They might, when it comes to chaos you can’t take chances. Especially with my fellow “brothers” of the third.” The assassin sighed “you are taking a chance now.” “I know what I am doing, I kept this blade on my person for centuries.” “Fine….” She shrugged. “If it blows up in your face don’t blame me…” she turned and walked away. The blade started it’s movement again. +They will all betray you...treachery is the blood of all followers of the hated one…” Taurus tried to ignore it, he continued his journey. As he reached the docking bay he could see all of the gene-seed is being loaded on large carts and being pushed to the space station entrance. Gavisus and Tetricus were there. +Traitors the both of them...degenerates...sybarites..you are better than this. You are a soldier...+ Taurus tried not to let his concern show he approached his brothers. “I assume Eidolon will be impressed.” Gavisus gave a great grin and nodded. “Aye, I bet he will be beside himself! You were great on the walls! I wish I could do that.” Taurus folded his arms “well if you train as much as I do perhaps you could do it. I could always change your free time and give you personal lessons.” His brother frowned slightly “But I need to paint...so..” “As always..” Taurus tried not to roll his eyes. +See? He is weak, he cares more for his perversities than being the soldier you need.+ Tetricus coughed slightly. “We should get going.”

Taurus began walking to the docking bay doors with his brothers. “yes I am eager to see Eidolon.” he tried to force the words of the sword away. He should focus on what is in front of him. As they entered the space station, again people stared at him and his breastplate. Just like before he ignored them and coutined making his way to Eidolon’s chambers. As he got there he saw the lord of sin waiting at the doors. Their eyes met. “I wish to speak with you captain of the 4th.” Taurus frowned and approached the warband leader. “I had a feeling you would succeed.” Gavisus snorted “you thought were were going to die.” Tetricus nodded in agreement. “Yes I do recall you were quite angry….” Adelram gave both his brothers a look of pure contempt. If they were anywhere else he would kill them, but even so he would not allow such a thing. +He would kill them...he could kill you...but if you used me...we could take his skull for khorne…+ Taurus sighed. “Tell me what do you want?” “I wish to speak of the creature on your ship.” “Creature? You mean Asriel?” He nodded. “I tell you this as your brother and a fellow member of the third...get rid of it.” He could not help but fold his arms in annoyance. “He is a member of my company. Just because you gave him up in weakness...” “I was not weak!” he barked back. The lord of sin quickly calmed himself. “Our father was just looking out for my best interests. What that...creature does is make you rely on it. It makes you think that you need him but he will ruin you completely and utterly.” +He speaks the truth...listen to the sybarite. That human can’t be trusted…+ Taurus tried not to react to the words of his blade. “So this is a warning?” “Yes it is, that’s all I will say on the matter. Now good day.” The lord of sin walked away. Gavisus shrugged “I don’t like him.” “Neither do I” said Tetricus.

Taurus gave a small smile to his brothers “at least we all agree.” they entered Eidolon’s chamber he was there sitting on his throne. But there was an object sitting on his lap. It was covered in a piece of white cloth, he wondered what it was. He walked to the middle of the room. “Eidolon the 4th has completed our lord primarch’s mission.” All Eidolon did in response is give a hurt nod, he rose from his throne while holding the covered object. He walked towards him, they were now face to face, the “lord commander” gave a heavy sigh. “You did as ordered, you returned in two weeks and two days. I also have word that the gene-seed is being offloaded. But with all things there has to be a reward for your actions.” I did it only to show the prowess of the 4th company Eidolon.” +Good, you understand you have no need for rewards or prizes. All you need are tools to commit war…+ “Our...father insists despite my reservations. He is allowing you to keep 10% of the gene-seed you retrieved.” He could see Gavisus was about to say something but raised his hand to stop him. “I thank you for this gift, according to my apothecary there is enough gene-seed to make over hundred companies. 10% of that is most welcome.” Eidolon sighed again, he could see he would of rather kept it all for himself. “There is one more thing…” he bought up the object he is holding, he removed the cover displaying a pauldron with the third legion insignia. “This is a bonus from our father. It’s the pauldron he took from you.” Taurus almost reached out he felt his hand moving. +Don’t! It’s a trick!+ he stopped and retreated his hand. “What’s the catch?” The “lord commander” gave a smile. “You admit that Lord Fulgrim is our father. You admit that we are brothers...our father seeks to personally guide you as well.” +If you accept she will infect every fibre of your being...refuse…+ Taurus stared at the pauldron a part of him wanted it badly after seeing it again all these centuries, but he made a commitment. He can’t go back on that. +Good...you are a soldier…+ “I refuse, I am a soldier Eidolon. My grievances with our lord primarch is still sound.” Eidolon covered the pauldron “you had your chance...now get off my station I don’t want to see your boots dirtying my floor.” Taurus turned away with his brothers, he did not care for his insults. He is actually eager to leave as well. +Yes leave this den of depravity…+ Taurus nodded “Let’s leave, I tire of this place.” So he left the sword still whispering at the back of his mind.

Eidolon watched the traitor leave, again he spat in the face of the third, again he thinks he knows more than his betters. “What does he see?” he said to himself. He wondered what his father saw, he wondered what exactly is pushing him to return him to the fold? +It’s quite easy..+ the voice was smooth but each word he could hear the slithering of snakes. He shook his head. “He rejected you.” +I know.+ “I should kill him. I can retrieve the gene-seed.” +Calm yourself my commander, my wayward child will destroy himself and everything he has built. This was his opportunity to avoid that fate. In the end he was used to get what I want…+ His primarch knew something he did not, but from experience he knows not to question further. Each time that thought comes to his mind he feels his scar itching slightly. “I see I wish I could see his destruction for myself.” +You will die but when that time comes feel free to retrieve what belongs to me. From that point he will no longer be my son. I will enjoy watching him crash to the ground.+ The sound of snakes drifted away, he looked at the pauldron and smiled. “Oh how I look forward to that day…”

Gavisus painted his latest work, at the moment he is in jovial spirits. It’s been about a week or so since they left the station and everyone now has grins lining their faces. A prospect that is pleasing to him, but as always Tetricus is the mope who can’t be happy unless his sirens are singing but that’s just how he is. He made a stroke of red paint made with the blood of slaves he wanted to recreate the beautiful scene on the walls of the fortress. Taurus slicing away with fluid movements, watching the heads of mortals burst due to bolter rounds. Thinking about it causes him to quiver in pleasure, but as he painted Taurus in that beautiful scene of red. A strange feeling nagged him, he knows he does not fight for joy but he feels he would be far more happy if he does. What is bothering him is that he does not notice how wonderful he is at murder. He added the last finishing touch he stared at his piece of art made on fine human skin. “Something is wrong…” staring at the piece of art all he could feel is dread. He was about to make some changes until he heard a knock on his door. “Come in!” he called out. The door slid open, it was one of the astartes of the warband. An old member from the days of the great crusade. “Libius? What is it?” His green eyes darted around the room. He approached. “We need to talk.” “About what?” “Have you heard the rumours?” “No, I have been focusing on this!” he turned the canvas and showed Fibius his work, instead of admiring it he turned white like a sheet. Gavisus frowned “speak, what is on your mind?” His brother took a deep breath and stepped in closer. “There are rumours...that our captain is being courted by the blood god.” “Impossible!” he barked back.

He ground his teeth in frustration he pointed his paintbrush at Libius “don’t you dare speak such words to me!” “As I said...it’s rumours but…think about it. He isn’t like us. Sll of us look to the dark prince but he hasn’t changed.” “I don’t want to hear rumours or talk of mutiny. Does Tetricus know?” “N-no, we haven’t told him since…” “He is a witch?” Libius slowly nodded. He sighed and looked at his piece of art. “Tell me why are you so troubled looking at this?” “It bothers me because our captain is drenched in blood and gore he does not even notice how he kills. He displays no joy in slaying the followers of the corpse god.” “He has always been this way.” “Yes, but who out of the dark powers likes that form of murder? He engages in none of the activities that interest us and there is the fact…” he whispered “the blade he never uses is a relic of the blood god. A daemon weapon.” Gavisus felt his eyes bulging out of his head with that information. “He would never keep such an artifact! Yes he is strange! But he is dedicated to perfection like all of us! He used that blade to save us! Don’t you remember?” “I do..but perhaps if the rumours are true what if the blade saved us for entirely different reasons? Word is daemon weapons can influence its owner. Just look at the piece of art you painted the dark prince must be warning us! It’s an omen!”

Gavisus could not help but sigh, he felt weary. His jovial mood has turned to dust. “So what do you expect me to do?” “Just...talk to him. You have been with him far longer than I have.” Libius shook his head. “I don’t want it to be true.” Gavisus placed his hand on Libius’ pauldron “I will talk with him. Don’t worry, we don’t keep secrets in this warband. We aren’t like the rest.” Libius grasped his hand and smiled. “Thank you.” he then walked away, leaving his room. As his hand fell to his side he looked at his artwork. The dread he felt before began consuming him utterly.

Taurus sat at his table, going through the reports on the gene-seed they acquired. He wanted to ensure every single one is pure for implementation and luckily they all are. +The creature the sybarite warned you about will betray you…+ Taurus creased his brow in frustration. The voices have been unrelenting this past week. “Why are you speaking now?” he asked. +I speak because you have a far greater destiny. You will be a general that would crush all foes, a general that will have the respect of his men. This is what the lord of skulls desires from you.+ “I have the respect of my men.” +Because you are living a lie. You think that you are favoured by the dark prince but your body is strong and young because of only one patron. There are so many tools the blood god can give you if only you swear to serve. + “I refuse, I am quite happy with what I have here.” He then heard a knock on his door. +The first betrayer comes…+ Taurus tried not to react the door slowly opened to reveal Gavisus. He did not look happy which is odd, he looks concerned and he has not made such a face in centuries.

His brother walked toward the table and sat in front of him. “Captain we need to talk.” “About what?” Gavisus shook his head. “No secrets between us remember? All of us are comrades.” “Yes we are.” “So...tell me why don’t you use your old sword?” Taurus felt both his hearts jump within his chest suddenly. “It has sentimental value, I will use it once Fulgrim accepts that what I said to him was right.” “I see..since everyone is worried that your sword is a blade possessed by a daemon of khorne.” Taurus wanted to look away, he did not want to confirm it. The blade began laughing. “Where did you hear that?” “Libius told me that everyone is speaking about it. He requested that I speak to you on the matter. Proper channels remember?” He needed to find a way to divert the topic without being suspicious. “It’s just rumours.” “Right...so you don’t mind drawing your blade for me here then?” “Why?” “Because if it’s not a daemon weapon of khorne you should be able to draw it without any problems.” +Do it champion, do it so we can kill this one and take his skull for khorne.+ Taurus found sweat trailing down his brow for some reason. “I cannot, not at the moment.” “Why? What are you hiding?” “I am hiding nothing.” “Then draw your blade.” Taurus rose from the table. “They are just rumours! Why are you paying attention to them!?” Gavisus looked at him, his eyes was filled with disappointment. “Know if it is a blade of khorne, it will change you into something horrible captain. I don’t want that. Tell me that you are a servant of the dark prince.” Taurus responded firmly “I am a servant of the dark prince.” +Liar….+ His brother just rubbed his neck. “Very well.” he rose from the table, his jovial smile returned to his face. “You are a servant of the dark prince. I will let everyone know.” +You must kill him, he will turn everyone against us…+ Taurus felt his hand moving to the handle of the blade. He then gripped it tightly as he watched Gavisus leave. “How did my brothers find out?” +The creature told them, he was also there. I told you treachery is in the blood of the followers of the hated one.+

Taurus curled his lips in annoyance he briskly walked out of the room and made his way to the kitchen. Around this time Inferus should be preparing dinner. As he got to the door the blade spoke +This is your chance..he will lie to protect itself. Kill it now.+ Taurus entered the code and walked in he saw Asriel was cooking. He approached the company chef. “We need to talk.” “What is it captain?” “What have you told my brothers?” Inferus frowned “I don’t know what you are talking about.” +See! Look and understand! He knows but he lies!+ Taurus felt his anger building he tried to calm himself. “Back at the fortress when Silentus and I was talking. Did you understand our conversation?” Inferus stopped his work. He slowly shook his head. “No...I did not understand.” The blade hissed in frustration. +Take the skull of the liar, remove his head like the others!+ “Asriel...don’t lie to me.” “I am not lying what are you looking for? Are you okay?” Taurus placed his hand on the handle of the blade, he watched Inferus’ eyes move towards it. So he does know. +Kill him! Kill him now!+ the daemon was roaring in his mind. He turned away from the company chef. “It’s nothing...nothing at all.” He left the kitchen without another word.

He decided to go back to his room to calm down, it is just rumours and even if it’s true they are brothers. They have been through so much, they won’t betray him. They won’t betray everything he has built. As he got back to his chambers he entered them and got a drink ready for himself. He picked up the wine glass and sipped slowly to calm himself. This is not normal, he has never got worked up like this before. +You missed your chance. The traitor's come...ready yourself.+ Taurus heard his doors opening again, he heard several heavy footsteps. He bought his eyes to the door to see Gavisus at the head of a group of Astartes. “This is for your own good captain.” Taurus could not help but chuckle “so do you aim to betray me like Griffin Calor?” he placed the wine on the table he was drinking it at. He faced the group, Gavisus shook his head. “Give us the sword.” “This sword saved us.” “It did not save us!” he shouted. “It wanted to preserve you!” Taurus frowned. “Even so we might need it. Just in case.” His brother began pleading. “Stop being stubborn! Give us the blade! Don’t make use force!” +Look at the ants gathering together… I told you.+ Taurus removed his helmet from his belt and placed it on his head. “I order you to back down Lieutenant.” Gavisus grinned “Sometimes the leader can get it wrong...shoot to disable him!” All of them drew bolters and bolt pistols. Taurus cursed, he drew his weapons. +No! Use me! It’s the only way!+ Gavisus followers opened fire, Taurus dived to the side while firing his bolt pistol. Several shots hit the bodies and legs of the mutineers. He rolled as he landed and stood up right. He charged, Gavisus drew his bolter and fired quick shots into his legs, he barely saw the movement.

Taurus felt himself topping to the ground with a thud. He cursed in frustration, the group approached. Gavisus kicked his bolt pistol and blade out of his hand. “Now the blade…” +This is your final chance! Use me now!” “Calor...I know what I am doing.” “Not in this case.” “So you don’t trust me?” “Not in the instance but we are still brothers.” For some reason all Taurus could feel is rage, anger and frustration. “I am doing this so we can become the best company. All I did was for us to survive. It seems...you don’t understand that.” He drew the sword, as it left the scabbard. He felt it, a pounding heat enveloping his mind, his hearts twisting. All these sensations are different compared to Istvaan and the scouring. Even holding the blade it was like his hand was on fire, he looked up to see Gavisus is now stepping back pointing his bolter at him. Now looking at all of them, all those who are against his dream all he could feel is hatred. Pure and utter hatred. He spat “Traitors!” he quickly got to his feet. Gavisus frowned “so it seems you can’t control it.” “I am in control!” “Prove it.” he dropped his bolter on the ground and spread his arms. “Prove that you can control it.”

He pointed the blade at him, the heat was overwhelming. +It’s all lies...they seek to weaken you. Weaken this company.+ “You seek to weaken this company…” +Weakness needs to be purged.+ “Weakness...needs to be purged.” He charged towards Gavisus none of them could see his movements in a swift motion he planted the blade into the traitors neck. He gagged and gripped the blade while smiling. “Looks like I was right…” +Kill all the traitors…+ “All traitors will die!” +Skulls for khorne…+ He flicked his blade and removed Gavisus head, the sybarite’s head rolled on the ground as he spread his eyes over the traitors. “Skulls...for Khorne.”
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Hope people like the chapter.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 12
Asriel finished cooking dinner, his mind raced wondering if something was wrong with captain. He has never seen him worried about something before. He wondered if he should of been truthful? But fear held him back, he did not know what to do. The fear that if he acts he will lose this home. That feeling utterly consumed him.

He frowned “maybe I should of said something?” he began placing the plates on the cart. “You should of said something.” He turned in the direction of the voice it was the same siren from before. Asriel ignored it, he faced the cart. “Not again, I won’t do a thing to ruin what I have here.” “It’s already ruined.” said the siren. He did not respond, he did not want to get dragged in. “The daemon within the sword is worming into his soul, he is butchering his way across the ship.” Asriel finally stopped and turned towards the daemonhost. “What?” She gave a coy smile. “He is purging all weakness from his company, the blade is pushing him to remove all followers of the dark prince. Then he will rebuild the company anew.” Hearing that Asriel cursed. “Where is he now!?” “He is making his way here, the blade views you as a threat. Go to the silent one.” “Wha-” he blinked and the siren vanished. Asriel did not waste any time he rushed to his bedroom and placed his belt of knives around his waist he grabbed his sniper rifle and made his way out of his bedroom. He gripped the weapon “how did this happen?” he walked to the door and inputted the code as he walked forward and entered the hallway he could feel it. The air has changed.

He nodded, “right silent one, she must be talking about Silentus.” he started jogging to his chambers he knew where it was but for some reason in his schedule it told him that delivering food to him won’t be necessary, so he never went there. But as he made the journey he noticed that that the voices of the crew were absent. No screams of pain or pleasure. Just utter silence. After a few minutes he approached the apothecaries door, he knocked hard upon it. He waited for a few seconds there was no response, he was going to knock again but the door suddenly slid open and Silentus stood before him. He signed “what is it?” Asriel darted his eyes slightly he wondered if he should respond. The apothecary shook his head. “I know you understand me. Now what is it?” His mouth felt dry for some reason as he spoke. “I think...the blade has taken Taurus.” Silentus nodded. “That was expected.” “What!?” “Captain can be stubborn, he has to fall first before getting the hint. Come in.” he turned and entered his room, Asriel followed. As he got inside he expected a mad laboratory, but what he found were shelves full of books, some medical supplies and a operating bed. The apothecary then faced him. “What is happening now is necessary.” “How is it necessary!? Captain might be possessed by a blade of khorne!?” Silentus signed firmly “this needs to happen so he can gain faith.” Asriel could not help but shake his head. “So you are doing this in order to get him to follow the dark prince? How can that be if he is now in enthralled by the blood god?” “Easy, we get the blade away from him. But we will need help, come we are going to see the sorcerer.” The apothecary then walked to a locker and removed a two-handed sword. He mag-locked it to his back. “Let’s go.” he signed.

They left the room ande made their way to Tetricus’ abode. Asriel could not help but be a little annoyed at Silentus he wanted this to happen. “You should of done something.” “Why?” he signed. “Captain mocks the gods, faith can’t be forced but you can help one realise it.” Asriel narrowed his eyes at Silentus. “You sound like a word bearer.” “It’s because of the word bearers that this company is still alive. The false-emperor is a poor master, we are machines of war and the gods know how to make far better use of us. The dark prince allows us to enjoy what we do, he allows us to enjoy the road of perfection.” Hearing him speak he sounds like a fanatic. “Right, but my question is why is this happening now? Why is the daemon doing this now of all times?” “He has had the blade for centuries, daemons can wait for a long time to make their move. They wait for just one crack in the armour before striking. Also this whole situation might of been instigated by the assassin.” “She is not loyal?” “Of course not. My guess is she leaked our conversation in order for our brothers to kill Taurus.” Asriel could not help but furrow his brow in confusion. “How come she could not kill him herself?” “Because Taurus is far to alert to be killed by an assassin. He took down the task force sent to kill him. Do you think a single assassin would be able to take him down? But the piriah’s presence is necessary for Taurus to find true faith hence why I did not kill her.” That piece of news surprised him, he looked at the blade on the apothecary's back. “You are that strong?” “Yes, I am the best bladesman in the company the assassin barely sleeps because she fears that she may not wake up again due to me looming over her.”

As Silentus signed, Asriel got the feeling he is holding back. That if he was free with who he is he could commit such great depravity it would put Gavisus to shame. “So your faith in the dark prince is the greatest out of everyone?” “Yes.” “What of your room? It looks…” “I like to keep my room clean for reading, I hold back for the battlefield. Unfortunately captain thinks I am the only “pure” remnant left of the 4th company so I have not seen it lately.” Asriel looked down slightly, a thought hit him that Taurus was trying to attain something that was impossible. From the looks of things the only reason why people followed him and did as he said was from a sense of respect. An old feeling that must of remained through the centuries. But with this if any of the warband survives that would be the end of such a notion. They came upon the tunnel door and there was a group of people there. One radiated annoyance. They approached the door and the young man approached Silentus. “Why is Taurus murdering everyone?” Silentus signed “Sagax, it’s his sword.” “Oh, I see. Well my bridge staff thought to comer here but we felt it would be too dangerous to enter the room of a witch without an astartes escorting us.” Asriel found it strange that Sagax was completely calm about the situation. The apothecary approached the door and opened it. All of them went inside.

Walking down the tunnel, Asriel looked up to Silentus. He signed “how do you hope to solve the situation?” The apothecary signed back. “I will remove the sword from his hand. When he looks upon what he has wrought he will understand the powers he is playing with.” “Astartes have been crushed by chaos and it’s machinations how sure are you that captain will get through this unscathed?” “The point is he won’t get through it unscathed, but he will recover. I know him.” Asriel was going to sign again but they approached the door, he noticed that there were no muffled sounds coming from the door. The apothecary opened it, as Asriel walked inside with the group he could see the sirens are silent. They stood still like a stone, Tetricus was fully geared for war, he held his staff tightly. The door slid close behind them and the sorcerer shook his head as they entered. “I can feel it...everyone is dying. The blood god is screaming in victory. Our captain is shouting in pain...” Asriel thought to say something, he closed his eyes. Try to do the right thing. He approached the sorcerer. “My lord, Taurus has been taken hold by a blade of khorne. Do you have any idea on how to stop him?” His helmet shifted towards him. “The blade held a daemon of khorne? How could I have not detected it I-” “My lord please you need to focus. How can we stop him?” “First you need to understand.” it was the same voice, from the siren who came to see him. She walked forward straining at the chains, eventually it gave way. Tetricus twisted and pointed his staff at the daemonhost. A purple light erupted from his staff. “Back to your spot daemon…” She hissed, her skin changed to a pink like hue, her lips turned purple. “Both of you need to understand his secrets…” “His secrets? Who’s?” She pointed at Silentus. The apothecary drew his blade he began walking towards the siren. Tetricus turned his hand towards Silentus sending him flying across the room. The sorcerer held him place. “What do you mean daemon?” “The light….” The light of his staff died slightly. The daemonhost relaxed. “So many hidden things you are not aware of..do you want to see?” Asriel took a step forward. “Will this help us save Taurus?” She slowly nodded.

She raised her hands and sang a quiet song, all of the other daemonhosts joined in. Slowly a purple energy gathered in the hall it began to form scenes and people. Tetricus eyes went wide. “This is...the past.” Asriel stared at the light, voices and thoughts came from the images. He opened his ears and watched carefully.

Taurus walked through the hallway of the pride of the emperor, his foray with the blood angels has gone well and now he has returned. His lord primarch wanted to see him which would be an opportunity to voice his concerns. “You should change your mind.” Julian was frowning, his ex-lieutenant stepped down a few months ago to train as an apothecary a decision he is still in contention with. “Why should I listen if you won’t be my lieutenant?” “Cornelius, I training because I knew this was going to happen. Trust me airing your thoughts might lead to consequences. Just listen to me just this once.” “No, also it’s Taurus.” “I am not going to call you by your stupid nickname.” Taurus simply shrugged. “The rest of the company is getting into it.” “I have to remain focused for all of us.” He sighed as Julian spoke, he does not realise he is doing it to build camaraderie. He noticed a mark improvement in the company. He moved back to the main topic. “The flesh tearer is correct. Psykers might help us also the rank of lord commander is there to stroke ego’s than to actually help one improve.” “We don’t need psykers. They-” “Saved your life.” Taurus interrupted, “if the blood angel psyker was not there you would of been blasted to smithereens. How can we know whether something is imperfect or not if we have no idea about it?” Taurus nodded “the emperor is the most perfect being in the galaxy and it’s clear he is psyker. He is the ultimate example to us and yet we push psykers away? Why is that?” Julian was silent he shook his head. “I just worry that Lord Fulgrim will kill you.” Taurus can see clear worry in his green eyes. He placed his hand on his pauldron “do not worry our primarch will listen. I am sure of it.” His brother shook his head. “I hope so for your sake.”

After a few minutes they approached the door of the abode of his primarch. Two phoenix terminators stood at the doors at attention. They gave a curt nod to him. One of the terminators said. “He will see you now.” he pushed the door open slightly to let him in. As he walked inside he looked back to see Julian still looked worried. He gave his brother a reassuring smile. He then faced forward, Lord Fulgrim’s room was a wonder to see. Art lined the walls, golden statues in the likeness of his primarch were in the corners of the room and there were bookshelves filled with esoteric books. But the true wonder and general of the legion was sitting in a large sofa reading a book. But what also held his eye is a sabre sitting on the table. He approached and bowed. “Lord Primarch.” Lord Fulgrim closed his book and placed it on the table he rose and stood over him. He gave the softest smile he has ever seen. “Cornelius or is it Taurus?” “Whatever you prefer lord primarch.” He chuckled “We all have our nicknames even I do. Even my brothers, so...Taurus. Like a bull then?” He nodded. “The imperial soldiers I served with during the unification wars gave it to me my lord.” “I see are they still alive?” “No my lord they are dead, but they served the emperor well.” “Just like you serve me well.” Taurus inclined his head. His lord primarch turned to the table and picked up the blade. He held it out to him. “The scabbard is made with the finest metals and jewels, the blade itself will easily be able to cut ceramite and steel. I had this personally made for you.” Taurus gripped the blade, now what he wanted to say was dying within his chest.

As it left the hands of his primarch he clenched it tightly. He took a deep breath the right thing would be to speak. He is dedicated to perfection like all of them. “Lord Fulgrim, I wish to say something.” Fulgrim held his soft smile. “Speak then.” “I….have some concerns.” The smile quickly vanished. “What is it?” “It’s various things...when you introduced the lord commander rank I thought it would aid in helping the soldiers to become better. But from my observations it’s being used to propagate...bad traits.” “You speak of Eidolon, it’s clear to me that you don’t like him.” Taurus shook his head. “No-” “Is it jealousy?” “No my lord! It’s just that people are emulating tactics that increase the death rate in battles! Many of the astartes are becoming more concerned with how they look in battle than how they perform!” Fulgrim folded his arms. “I chose each lord commander because they emulate the traits that I want to display in the legion. They are the guiding flame, you don’t want to follow it?” Taurus could say nothing. His primarch shook his head “is there anything else?” Suddenly Taurus felt weary but he kept speaking. “I wish to speak of psykers. Why don’t we have any in the legion?” “Because they are inherently flawed.” “How can that be? Many of the other legions have psykers, my brothers were saved from a psychic attack due to a blood angel psyker. How can they be imperfect? We barely even understand them.” “What is there to understand? The mutation within their bodies has forever marred them. My brothers may use them but this..legion is perfect.” Taurus looked into his dark eyes, they were pressing upon him. Yet his mouth kept moving. “My lord is the emperor inherently flawed then?” His words caused a flash of anger to spread over his general’s face. His gaze then turned sad. “Who put such ideas in your head? Was it the flesh tearer? That disgusting butcher?” Taurus clenched the blade. “The flesh tearer is honest my lord, if he sees a perceived flaw he voices it.” “I thought you knew better than that. What does he know of flaws? Of perfection?” Fulgrim placed his hand on his pauldron. He felt an incredible weight upon it. “Just because you are part of the 200, do not think that you can make mistakes.” In a swift movement he tore off his pauldron. “You may leave with your company, if you think that my brothers legions know better you can fight with them.” He turned away and gestured him out. “You may keep the blade.”

Taurus left the room his body felt heavy, his heart beats slowed. He could see Julian looked at him with concern. “What happened?” Taurus gripped the blade. “The company has to leave the fleet...for now.” His brother looked confused “Why?” Taurus clutched the sword. “Our primarch wills it. But I won’t give up.”

The scene faded the singing died down, Tetricus shook his head. “I heard it from Taurus’ mouth...but seeing it.” Asriel nodded. “Even to this day he still believes he is right.” “He is right!” Tetricus spat. “If he did not feel that way we would of never survived! I would not be here!” Asriel shook his head and looked over to Silentus. Despite being held down he signed “what happened was the will of the dark prince.” “Will? What’s happening now looks like the will of khorne!” “It was Erebus.” “Erebus?” As he said the name Tetricus strode over to the apothecary. “What do you mean!?” The singing started again, a new scene was conjured. Everyone placed their eyes upon it.

Taurus looked up to the new recruit, he seemed nervous. “Relax.” he shook his head. “Sorry captain.” He smiled but the reason why he was recruited was to prove his reasoning. “So do you know why you were recruited?” He slowly nodded. “Yes.” “Good, now Cristian you are a psyker but you won’t use your powers without my express permission do you understand me?” He nodded. “Yes captain..but.” “My brothers would get use to your presence in time. Our time with the thousands sons and detailing my ideas they were more than happy to lend me some materials to aid you. They are in your room, I recommend you get started. You are dismissed” Cristian saluted and left his chambers. As he exited Calor and Julian walked in. Both of them approached his desk. “What is it?” Calor shook his head he seemed tense. “Supplies captain.” Julian nodded in agreement. “Yes, considering we have essentially been exiled we have to survive on “donations” from those we aid. We are fortunate they are impressed with your prowess captain. But there is the added issue that our numbers are whittling down.” Taurus sighed. This is another test. “We keep to it, that’s all we can do.” Calor mumbled slightly. “Captain I have been in contact with Eidolon. He has said-” “No.” “Bu-” “No, I bet he has said if we apologise to Fulgrim he will welcome us back, but I would have to abandon all my concerns and grievances. So my answer is no.” His new lieutenant relaxed. “Very well.” Julian folded his arms. “I also want to bring up the fact that the word bearers request our aid. I think we should accept.” Taurus grumbled slightly “I have heard they have grown fearsome since they were sanctioned.” “Also I personally believe the reason why Eidolon contacted us is because of the glowing reports sent to the pride of the emperor.” “Makes sense, many captains within the third are concerned with appearances we are ruining that.” He then weighed the information in his mind, he does not exactly like the word bearers but beggars can’t be choosers. “Put us into contact with them. Let’s add another glowing report.


The sorcerer shook his head. “I had no idea about that conversation…the struggle.” Asriel gave a look at the apothecary. “You have been in contact with the word bearers a long time haven’t you?” Silentus said nothing, but saying nothing shows that it is the truth. The question is how long. He looked at the daemonhost. She smiled and the song started again.

Taurus walked with Erebus, the ground crunched under his boots, they walked around the camp. They have been with the word bearers for quite some time, their aid was helpful in bringing the company back to full strength and at the same time he has found they are not as bad as he believed. Erebus smiled, the text inking his skin moving slightly. “Another victory old one.” Taurus had no idea why he called him old one, he knows he is not mocking his age or how he looks. “Yes it was quite sound but I noticed the word bearers are quite…” “fanatical? Or Dedicated? Just like how you are dedicated to your own crusade to prove your primarch wrong? You are going far enough to train a psyker.” Taurus flinched slightly, he wondered how on earth he knew about that. At most majority of the legions think this is some sort of strange challenge. None even know his company has a psyker save the thousand sons. “How do you know?” “I know enough, you spoke the truth even though he did not want to hear it. That quality is something the word bearers appreciate. If our primarch was not busy he would say the same thing.” At the mention of his primarch he looked over to the large tent. He had to admit it was quite morbid, they had skull lanterns mounted on sticks sitting at the sides of the tent entrance. He faced Erebus. “I should thank him before leaving, for having us.” “I am sure he would like that. But..” “But what?” Erebus stepped slightly closer. “Your death is coming.” Taurus furrowed his brows. “What do you mean?” “Our legion has discovered techniques similar to what the psykers employ. I can give you some aid in order to help you survive.” Taurus thought about it for a moment, his time with the thousand sons he knew that some of them can look into the future. He guessed that perhaps the word bearers have their own form of psykers. He nodded “what do you have in mind?” “I just need your sword.” “Why do you need my blade?” Erebus locked his eyes with his. “Trust me.” Taurus slowly gripped his blade and handed it to him. He stopped walking and gazed at it, he mumbled a few words. The blade shimmered with a soft red light just for a moment. He handed his blade back to him. “It’s done.” “What is? What did you do?” Taurus looked down to his weapon. Erebus placed his hand on his pauldron. “Given you the strength needed to survive, come let us talk of far more brighter things.” Taurus slowly nodded.

Tetricus roared in fury. “Damn that dark apostle! It is his fault!” Asriel could not help but sigh heavily. He wondered what the word bearer was hoping to achieve. He looked over to Silentus who signed. “It is necessary, a sad necessity. But everything that did happen and is happening now must happen in order for our captain to find faith in the dark prince.” Tetricus eyes darted from him and to the apothecary. “What did he say!? Tell me!” Asriel frowned. “He said what is happening now is necessary.” The sorcerer's staff thrummed with pink fire he pointed it at Silentus. “How long have you been manipulating us!?” Silentus shook his head. “I did nothing, it is the will of the gods.” “What did he say!?” “He said it’s the will of the gods that this happening.” Tetricus’ staff glew even brighter. Asriel was about to stop him but the singing started again, the sorcerer's attention was taken away from the apothecary.

Julian began extracting the gene-seed from his dead brother. He became an apothecary under his advice. He endured all of this under his advice. At first he was skeptical but when a primarch privately contacts you it’s hard to say no to such a thing. He heard the tent doors opening. “I am busy.” “Are you?” he stopped his work and turned to see the large form of Lorgar Aurelian he could see he was holding something. Julian clenched his hands. “Greetings Lord Lorgar.” The golden primarch chuckled “let’s drop the pleasantries, just call me Lorgar. I have come to see how you are doing.” Julian felt his arms sagging slightly. “It’s been hard.” “When it comes to all tests of faith it is hard.” “I assure you the dark prince is eager to see you succeed. But you will have to endure centuries of hardship.” The primarch walked around the tent. “But you believe that your company won’t take to the truth faith.” He nodded. “All of them are stubborn, but the most stubborn of all is…” “Your captain.” “You ask me to do nothing, but at times I just wish..” “To speak? To spread the truth? The truth must be told at the right moment, sometimes some people must realise it for themselves.” Julian is used to hearing this in his private conversations. Ever since he accepted the truth he had vivid dreams of a beautiful palace, his hearts swells whenever he looks upon it. But that image shifts and changes, to display a great war between the legions. Seeing that he knew Lorgar was speaking the truth and he will do whatever it takes to ensure his company survives and embraces slaanesh. As he mentioned that name within his mind, he feels a strange tickle down his spine. He shook his head. “I understand, I am patient Lorgar.” He smiled and nodded. “Good, I have come to give you this.” he set the object down on the table next to him. It was a book. “In here contains the keys to your salvation. When the time comes you must go to Istvaan III.” Julian looked at the book. “What is it?” “What is it? This book contains various techniques to manipulate the power of the warp. Ensure it lands in the hands of your psyker.” The primarch began walking towards the exit, he turned his head back slightly. “Also, your captain must hold onto his blade for that is the key to ensure his faith blossoms.” The golden primarch left, Julian had no idea what he meant. He looked at the book. “Keys to our salvation? I wonder…”

Tetricus shook his head in disbelief “I remember captain handing me that book…” “Silentus must of simply handed it off to him.” said Asriel. He looked over to the apothecary. He signed slowly. “I was truthful, I told him the book is from Lorgar Aurelian, it had techniques that could help Cristian. He could not say no to that, hearing that a primarch wishes to aid us Captain felt more assured that he was on the right path.” Asriel looked over to the sorcerer. “I have a feeling I know what is coming next.” as he finished speaking the song peaked again.

Taurus ran to the bunker with his whole company, the sword quietly whispering in his head. +Move...quickly...death is coming…+ So he kept running. At first everyone was unsure why he wanted to head over there save Julian. It was his added voice that convinced everyone. All of them made a corner they looked upon the entrance of the underground bunker. “Quickly! Everyone inside!” They raced inside and locked the door. Taurus could see some of his brothers were pacing, others were shaking their heads. Cristian approached him. “Captain.” “What is it?” His company psyker shook his head. “I feel...dread. I can hear thousands screaming in my mind…” He suddenly gripped his head as the bunker began shaking heavily. “So many...are dying.” As he spoke Taurus heard banging on the door and muffled shouts. He moved towards it. “Don’t open it!” Julian called out. Taurus flicked to the apothecary. “They need our aid!” “The whole bunker is shaking! It’s too late!” Calor nodded in agreement. “Captain, it’s too late.” Hearing both of them speak he clenched his hands and walked back. The banging soon stopped. His lieutenant tutted. “We should of ignored the call…” “But this could of been an opportunity, this was a call for aid not to apologise Calor.” said Julian. Taurus could see that Julian seemed calm about the situation just for a moment he wondered if he knew this would happen? He was the one that pushed him to answer the call. He shook his head. It’s impossible. He folded his arms and waited for the shelling to stop.

It lasted for what seemed like an age. “What is Horus thinking?” said Taurus. Calor spoke almost in a hushed tone. “He is bombing the planet while so many of us are on world...you don’t think?” “He is not a traitor.” Julian said firmly. At the mention of traitor everyone looked at him. He shook his head. “No Julian, Calor is right. This whole situation is clear that he aimed to kill us.” The shelling stopped one of his brothers walked to the door. “Wait for the dust to settle. We have no idea what form of bombardment Horus used against us.” His brother walked away from the door. All of them waited in foreboding silence, Cristian still clutching his head. “Captain...she laughs at us...she wants us…” Taurus walked over and placed his hand on his pauldron. “Calm yourself Cristian, deep breaths.” he did as ordered. He took deep breathes slowly he calmed himself down. Now Taurus looked up towards the door. “Right let’s move.” He moved towards the door and opened it, a gust of dust crashed into his body. He gestured to his company “all clear!” His whole company left the bunker.

They looked around there were corpses everywhere, armour and bone was melted terribly. “Virus bombs…” Taurus voiced out loud. “Watch for hostiles! Weapons free!” he called out, everyone followed his order. They drew weapons, as he placed his hand on his blade another cold whisper passed through his mind. +The minions of the hated one comes...enjoy the slaughter…+ Taurus clenched his teeth and began walking. Soon as they made a corner he saw fellow emperor’s children. A whole host of them. One pointed “There they are! Quickly let’s take his head for the lord commander!” They all charged weapons drawn. “Captain what do we do they are our brothers!” Calor called out. “We ca-” “We can” he said firmly. “Open fire!” His company leveled bolters and fired into the charging emperor’s children. A swathe was cut down due to the enemy not wearing helmets, many did not wield bolters either. A mistake that is costing them.

But there were too many, far too many. “Blades forward!” Taurus called out. Those who wielded power swords came forward. They met the traitor charge. He speared one of his ex-brothers in the throat. As he died a strange vigour gripped his old body. He flicked his blade removing his head. +Kill more…+ Taurus slashed another but what was now puzzling as they died they were not screaming in pain but pleasure. What was even worse is that some of them their armour was now painted in garish colours. Julian impaled another traitor. “There are too many!” Cristian came forward from the bolter line. “Captain...I…” “Speak!” “I-I can get us off world!” That piece of news caused his eyes to widen. “Then do it!” “But I need time!” “I will give you the time!” Taurus heard a gurgled scream, he looked to his left to see Julian has been stabbed in the throat, Calor is pulling him back to the bolter line. He took a deep breath and gripped his weapons tightly. I need more strength. +I will give you more strength...keep killing…+ he could see Cristian is beginning his chant no one is giving him looks. Taurus stepped forward and slashed another traitor. I need to give him the time he needs. +I will give you power…+ Taurus looked upon his ex-brothers, the depravity they committed upon themselves, how they scream in pleasure at this slaughter. Watching his brothers die to the blades of these degenerates. He roared in pure fury and anger, he threw aside his bolt pistol and pulled his scabbard from his waist.

He dove into the group, his blade sliced through necks, arms and legs. His scabbard smashed heads and caved in helmets. He became a whirlwind of pure slaughter. After just a few seconds, he slashed air. He panted and looked around, the traitors are stepping back, even retreating in fear. Seeing them take a step back he ground his teeth he was about to charge but he felt someone pulling him back. “Captain we must leave now!” Calor barked “No!” he shouted. “The traitors are right in front me! I-I must take their heads! They are cowards. The-” Several his brothers began dragging him away from the fleeing traitors. He looked back to see a glowing portal, Cristian is panting. For some reason he struggled, he needed to defeat them. To end their lives. To- +collect their skulls…+

The conjured images vanished, Asriel now understood what was going through Taurus mind at the time. He faced Tetricus. “What happened after?” “Well, the portal took us to a world that has been brought into compliance they gave us a ship without much issue. We tried to avoid the heresy but then...came the scouring.” Asriel nodded. “Considering most of your legion went traitor I imagine many were not in the mood to ask questions.” “You are correct, so like everyone else we had to retreat to the eye. Slowly all of us took to the dark prince. I suspect this was his plan all along.” He looked over to the apothecary. Silentus signed “I did nothing, your faith in the dark prince is natural. Captain is the stubborn one.” “How can you say it’s natural? You manipulated everything!” said Asriel. Tetricus said nothing to his words, he gestured with his hand to release the apothecary. “Enough, we have to deal with what is happening now. The sword has taken hold of our dear captain. So we must prepare, that’s all we can do.” Asriel then heard the twisting of metal and several locks, he looked over to the door to see Sagax is sealing the door. “What are you doing!?” “This room is the most defensible position” he said calmly. “He is right.” Silentus signed. “We will wait for him to come to us. Now we formulate a plan and prepare as Tetricus said.” Asriel felt apprehensive but if everyone feels this is the best course who is he to say otherwise?

Taurus impaled another traitor, he screamed in agony. He needed to purge all weakness from this company then he can rebuild it. He has the resources. +An army dedicated to the blood god…+ “A true army. An army that focuses on war, an army of true soldiers.” Another traitor charged him blade in hand, he easily parried his attack and stabbed him in the throat. He kicked him off his blade. He walked the now silent halls, instead of the sounds of pervisty greeting his ears it was pure silence. A sort of silence he has not heard in centuries. +Our work can begin soon. There are a few left.+ Taurus narrowed his eyes he began thinking. “The sorcerer...Asriel and Silentus…” +Yes….kill them. Butcher them. They hide in the sorcerer's den.+ Taurus charged onwards, blood splashing at his boots. “They are all that is left…”

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 2018/06/17 15:04:54


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Soo...a little history. Hmm can't wait to do the next chapter!
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 13
Asriel waited near the middle of the room aiming at the door, the bridge crew stood behind him. Despite all of them being reserved they did not want to go near any of the sirens. Honestly he could not blame them, the one he now assumed to be the leader stood next to him in silence, the rest are still chained to the walls. “He is coming...I can feel him.” said Tetricus. Asriel’s placed his eye on the door, the sorcerer and Silentus stood at the ready, waiting for their captain to come. He found his breathing oddly slowing until a blade pierced the door. It was cutting it like butter, watching the blade movement it’s clear that a makeshift door is being made. “Get ready human!” shouted Tetricus. The door makeshift door fell forwards and what he saw is Taurus covered head to toe in blood. He stepped into the room and looked around. “So this is where the traitors were hiding…the last ones...” Tetricus gripped his staff in both hands. “What do you mean the last ones!?” His captain chuckled “I have removed the tumour from my company. The ones in this room are all that is left. Your skulls will be offered up to his throne.” Asriel narrowed his eye, he looked at the blade he could sense the malicious presence from it. He aimed and fired but in a swift movement the blade cut the bullet he barely saw it. Taurus eyes were placed upon him, the green eye lenses of his helmet shifted to red. He charged, but Silentus stood in his path, as their blades clashed sparks were flying.

Tetricus summoned a great pink fireball and launched it at Taurus, he took a quick step back and slashed the ball of fire causing it to dissipate into nothing. The apothecary charged forward and upped his assault. Again Asriel tried to aim for Taurus’ blade wielding hand he fired another round, but while parrying he deflected the bullet again. Taurus roared in pure fury. “Cowards all of you! I wish for us to be the best! But you all whine and complain at simple demands!” He kicked Silentus back. He went for Tetricus who raised his guard with his staff, despite Silentus charging and attacking him from behind he was easily assaulting the sorcerer and deflecting Silentus’ attacks. While all of this was going on he looked at his sniper rifle. “This isn’t working…” he placed his sniper rifle down and drew a knife. He ran towards the astartes. Soon as he got close Taurus’ red eyes fell upon him, in that moment time slowed. Asriel watched his captain draw his blade back and in a quick motion he impaled him in the chest. He roared in agony, but this is his chance. He pushed himself on the blade and stabbed his knife into his wrist. Taurus drew the blade back, he fell to his knees as the blade left his body. He grinned as the knife exploded. He gasped as the wound began knitting itself back together. He staggered up to his feet to see Taurus looking at the stump that was his hand and the blade was now at the other side of the room.

Both Tetricus and Silentus took a step back from their captain. Asriel also stood still waiting, his red eye lenses turned back to green. Taurus began trembling he then cried out in pure anguish, it was so raw. Asriel could see the daemonhosts were grinning, drinking in his pain and misery. Silentus walked over and tried to touch his pauldron but he slapped his hand back. “D-don’t touch me!” “Captain, it’s alright. W-” Taurus waved the silent apothecary back. He got to his feet and walked out of the room in silence. The sorcerer approached Silentus and stabbed his breastplate with his finger. “This is your fault.” he said firmly. He pushed his finger aside and pointed at the blade. Tetricus scowled “Don’t worry I will get rid of it.” Asriel watched the sorcerer walk over to the sword, Sagax then approached him with his sniper rifle. “I think you should go after the captain.” “Why me?” “Well for one, I think Silentus would be a poor choice and two? I don’t think he will be able to look Tetricus in the face.” He could not fault Sagax’s thinking he looked at the entrance and began walking. Strangely Silentus did not even stop him, he gave him a reassuring nod.

Taurus walked through the carnage, corpses are everywhere. The corpses of the crew and his brothers. He tried to tell himself that maybe some of them might be alive. But he knows better, deep down he knows that save the ones who hid in Tetricus’ room everyone on the upper levels are dead. Tears trailed down his face, his body felt weak, heavy even. But he had to confirm one thing, he had to see it. He staggered back to his room as he got there he pushed the door open and walked in. He looked around and he saw it, Gavisus headless body his hearts twisted. Even in this moment vigour was seeping away from his body, he slowly walked over and knelt he lifted his body slightly. “I...couldn’t control it.” he whispered. He lay his body back down and rose. He walked over to the table and sat, facing the door, looking at the brothers he murdered. He removed his helmet and breathed in the rancid air, the smell of blood was strong in the air. If he closes his eyes he sees flashes of that moment when he severed his head. He then heard his door opening and closing again. He opened his eyes to see it’s Ambrosia, she is wearing her helmet.

She stepped over the corpses and stood in front of the table. “You know why I am here?” Taurus chuckled, he should have known. “So you spread the rumours?” She nodded “I was hoping your brothers would kill you. But this works in my favour as well. You are weak, vulnerable. Are you ready to die traitor?” Taurus thought on the past, that all he did was for nothing. That maybe Fulgrim was right. In his arrogance and foolishness he led his company to destruction. He nodded slowly. “Do it.”

Asriel raced to the door, he saw the assassin enter he has to hurry. As he got to the door he opened it, he saw the servo’s in the assassins helmet winding up. He aimed and fired. Shooting her arm. She hissed in pain as her arm fell to the floor. She rolled to the side and faced him. “Do you think a missing arm will stop me meat!?” Asriel fired again but somehow she dodged the gunshot. Asriel took a step forward, Ambrosia released a wave of black energy. Asriel rolled to the side and fired again, chipping away her helmet. She staggered back cursing, He quickly reloaded and fired again before she could recover. A bullet hit her chest, he fired again the second now hit her square in the forehead. She fell back to the ground. Asriel rose and walked towards her body and fired another shot in her head to ensure that she is dead. He breathed out a sigh of relief.

He faced Taurus who now looked utterly defeated and old, in the short few moments he guessed that he aged rapidly displaying his true age. Such is the whims of chaos, he slung the rifle over his shoulder and sat in front of him. Staring at his face covered in wrinkles, even his blue eyes lost its luster and the skin covering his bald head seemed to be sagging slightly. Asriel had no idea what to say or where to start. If he had to be honest, Taurus barely knew him, what hope is there that he will listen to him? He shook his head. I have to try. “What you want is not wrong.” His captain ground his teeth. “What I want...is wrong.” “You desired perfection all of the third does. You perceived something to be flawed so you wanted to correct it.” Taurus roared at him. “Look around you! What do you see!” he narrowed his eye at him. “A mistake.” “Yes! A mistake!” “But mistakes can be corrected, it’s how you deal with the aftermath that matters.” Asriel got up and touched his stump, Taurus grunted as the meat began knitting together. “You know...you can sometimes overthink things. Sometimes to grasp perfection you need to keep things simple instead of forcing things onto others.” Taurus looked up to him. “What do you mean?” Asriel recalled his past. “I did so many things to please Adelram, to attain my perfect family. When I should of kept it simple. I also had my own means of fighting, instead of improving it I just kept adding and changing never stepping closer to the thing I wanted.” He looked upon all the corpses. “You vulnerable and without direction. What is before you is sad but at the same time you have a fresh start, a new canvas. You see you tried to micromanage or force people to be one way. Instead of pushing the traits they were good at.” Taurus frowned. “Griffin was actually quite good with the blade...I could of found a place where all the bladesmen could work…where they could...” Asriel nodded. “See you are getting it, compared to everyone else you push yourself the hardest. Everyone admired you, naturally they would want to reach you with or without your intervention.” He watched the luster return to his eyes, just slightly. “But I don’t want to be like them...I don’t want to turn into a slave of pleasure.” “Who says you have to be that way? Yes the dark prince has use for them but he also needs people who are dedicated to their craft. People forget that the dark prince is the god of excess whatever is your truest desire or goal he will support you.” Asriel looked at his hand it has now fully regenerated. Taurus clenched it. “I never knew you were that good at biomancy.” Asriel chuckled “it took a long time to get this good. Just like your dream it will take a long time to achieve it but you have to work at it. I feel that at times bad things happen because it’s a test, the dark prince was to see our dedication. Are you going to give up?” Taurus shook his head. “No, this is not the end.” He nodded. “Good...but first you need to bathe.”

Asriel could see the blood drying on his armour, he is essentially awash with gore. Taurus slowly nodded. “Yes...that would be good.” Taurus rose, he walked out of the room. Asriel followed as they got to a bathing chamber they walked inside. He prepared the bath and then got to work helping Taurus remove his armour. Once all of it is gone he finally saw the scars that cover his entire body, the centuries of warfare. Even the wrinkles and the odd blemishes added to that. Staring at it he could not help but think how wonderful he looked compared to Adelram. He could sense the raw dedication to his path, he could not allow someone like him to stop here. Taurus sat in the bath, his eyes met his. “Is something wrong?” “N-nothing captain.” Asriel opened his witch eye he saw his soulfire blazing, but now a pink flame was being added to it steadily. He close his third eye. “So...what now?” Taurus closed his eyes for a moment then opened them. “All of us are going to the lower levels. I have a plan.” Despite his voice sounding aged he believed him. He could sense the strength behind his words.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Part 1 Epilogue
His mother dressed him in the finest clothes they had on hand, everyone wanted their child to be taken by the radiant one, the silver ox. His mother has been preparing him for this day through rigorous training and daily lessons from the priests.

Word is among the boys that those chosen by the radiant one are taken away to be demi-gods. His mother tells him in the past they never cared for them save for hunting them as sport. But in the last few years the lower levels have turned into almost a bustling city. Gangs fight, priests preach the word of the serpent while the fanatical flagellate themselves in rapturous prayer. His mother grabbed his hand. “Mum! I am not a child! I am sixteen!” “Quiet Dominic! We have to look our best!” She pulled him out of their room, the hallway was full of families waiting for him to come. Then they heard the footsteps, the screams. Out of the darkness, he saw him, his eyes were dilating. His armour was black, purple and pink. Jewels was also placed in various sections of his armour and helmet. His fine pin cape bellowed, but what held his eye is a dark iron halo hovering over his head that thrummed with a strange energy.

But there was a group of people following behind him, the priests that preach to them along with soldiers who wear studded leather. One by one, the radiant stopped before a family, they bowed as they offered their child. The Silver ox would then pull out a strange needle gun and inject it into the child’s arm. If it chimed green, the radiant one would then offer his hand. None hesitated, said child would then join the group of priests and soldiers. The serpent priests would then mark his head with a snake. Watching this, Domonic could see the chosen’s parents crying in pure joy and offering prayers up to the serpent.

But Domonic noticed that if the gun chimed red, the silver ox would shake his head. Then the family heads head fall in shame, some even cried out in despair for him to try again. Then it came to his turn, his mother pushed him forward. The sliver ox took his arm and injected the needle, Dominic winced the gun chimed green. The radiant one offered his hand, but he hesitated for some reason. He wondered who would look after his mother? Would she be alright by herself? But with one reassuring the nod from the silver ox he took it, all thoughts of his mother vanishing in the wind.

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 2018/06/17 20:33:21


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 14
Asriel watched the boys go through their drills on the balcony, a part of him thought these tests aren’t hard enough. More needs to be done. He then heard footsteps, he looked back to see Taurus approaching. “Inferus are you still thinking that I should murder the boys?” “No...I am just saying that the tests need to be harder.” Taurus walked up to the balcony railing and looked down. “What would that serve?” “To ensure you get the best recruits.” “I can understand your thinking, but what would be the point when those who survive don’t even remember the trials they faced?” Asriel could not help but agree. “True, so what are you looking for?” “Dedication and commitment. My presence here is another test.” Hearing him say that confusion began to set in. “How so?” “Look at them.” Asriel stared at the boys he could see some of their eyes are being diverted away from the training and they have begun looking at Taurus. “Traits are forever imprinted in one’s DNA, that is what will remain once they become astartes.” said Taurus. “I see so who passed and who failed?” His captain chuckled. “Inferus, all those who looked at me will be placed with the cult soldiers. They have failed.” he then walked away.

As he left he barked at one of the cultists of the serpent. He pointed at each of the boys who were not focused on training. “They will be put through cult training!” The soldiers began dragging the boys away confusion lining their faces. Asriel folded his arms understanding began setting in.

Domonic watched the boys being dragged away, the man who wore a cloak with a one-eyed helmet called to have them taken away. But for what reason? He noticed that some boys who were looking up are the ones being taken away. They were taking their focus away from training, but he was different, he wanted to be a demi-god, he wanted to be a space marine. He can’t let anything distract him. His training partner let loose a flurry of blows with his training staff, Domonic block all of them. Just by his face he could see he was gang member, his features looked ruddy, his olive skin was covered in spots. He wondered why trash like them were allowed to become demi-gods, they don’t read the scriptures or listen to the priests. He pushed back his strike and smacked him in the side of the body, he staggered back. “Dammit!” he coughed while gripping his side. “Y-you got lucky.” Domonic got into battle stance, he moved to attack again. He focused on the words the priests tell him, the serpent only loves those who grasp at perfection, everyone who gets in the way of that are distractions. He attacked his training partner who blocked his blow and then smacked him across the face with his staff.

Domonic held his face and staggered back slightly. It stang but it felt good, as the priest say pain is a joyous thing. He moved to attack again but one-eye clapped to stop them. “That’s enough!” He leapt from the balcony and landed softly. “Drop your weapons! All of you into single file!” They all got into a single file, his training partner stood in front of him. One-eye then gestured “we are going for a run!” he started running, Domonic looked back to see some of the serpent soldiers are at the back of the line. The line began moving and everyone started to run.

They left the training hall and entered the hallways of the ship, the upper levels to his surprise are incredibly quiet they are very few people walking around. It’s something he has still not gotten used to. As they jogged his training partner looked back slightly. “Call me Noel.” Domonic frowned “I don’t care for your name.” Noel grinned. “You got me good during training.” “Sorry I don’t talk with gang members.” The boy frowned “just because you lived closer to the upper levels does not mean we are all that different…” “You ignore the priests for one.” “Well I am not exactly sure whether I should be following people who say we should enjoy whipping ourselves.” “Pain allows one to focus, in pain we are closer to our god. Pain is a gift, the training is painful but we are becoming better...more perfect.” Noel shrugged. “Whatever you say...but I have an idea.” “I am not interested.” “Just listen! Let’s catch up to one-eye show him how good we are!” Domonic shook his head, it’s clear it’s a long distance run. He knew it would be better to pace yourself. “You are going to tire yourself out.” “But, it will show everyone that we are the best if we can keep up to his pace!” he said nothing, he let the gang member do what he wants. Noel snorted “fine...I will do it myself.” He left the line and jogged to the front, one-eye looked at him for a moment but then faced forward.

Domonic frowned, he felt a strange wound in his heart. He ran to the front next to Noel. He grinned as he caught up. Soon other boys got the same idea they all ran up to one-eye jogging next to him. Domonic looked back to see some of the boys laughing “they are going to burn out…” some whispered. “Idiots…” Domonic shook his head. They are happy with being mediocre. He kept running, soon as they turned a corner one-eye broke into a sprint, getting a large lead over them. Noel barked at him. “We have to catch up!” He sprinted down the hallway, Domonic did the same he won’t allow a gang member to outshine him.

Soon enough they caught up to one-eye, Domonic looked around to see that out of the group from before there was only 6 of them in total. One-eye then slowed down into a jog. Then he felt it, the acid building in his legs but he had to keep going. His lungs burned, he grit his teeth. Pain is joyous. He told himself, he smiled and reveled in it. In this pain he is now at the front of the group. The pain is letting him know he is trying as hard as possible.

All six of them kept running for an age until they stopped in front of a door. One-eye nodded. Domonic dropped to his knees panting. Noel grinned “see!? We are the best!” Eventually the rest of the group caught up. He rose with Noel, while he wiped the sweat from his brow. Once everyone arrived one-eye knocked on the door. It slid open to reveal the radiant one and one of the demi-gods in white armour. They stepped out into the hallway, Domonic stood upright while making the sign of the serpent. Noel folded his arms but he could see he was impressed with the silver ox. The radiant one looked at all of them and then at one-eye. “How many?” he said. “Six this time.” “Only six?” “I decided to do something a little different due to our previous conversation.” He pointed at all those who kept up with him. “Those six.” The silver ox nodded “I see please come in.” Domonic followed the demi-gods into the room, he could see Noel was clearly excited.

Before fully entering the room he could see all the other boys are confused. A part of him did wonder what exactly did they do wrong? He then dismissed them from his thoughts, they no longer mattered he has been chosen. As they got inside it was a large white room full of strange organs. Both of the demi-gods stopped and faced them. The radiant one then nodded to each of them. “Soon we will be brothers, you six have been chosen to become machines of war. Praise your luck or the dark prince but all of you will be astartes.” he inclined his head to the white demi-god. First he walked towards him, he removed a strange needle from his pouch and injected it into his arm. As the pink contents entered his system he felt drowsy. His vision became awash with multicoloured lights and after a brief moment he felt pain.

He felt patches of his memory vanishing, fluttering away in the wind those patches were replaced with battle plans, formations, edicts and the words of...slaanesh. His mind thrummed with all this information the pain vanished and he felt something joyous that he was joining something bigger and better than himself. His eyes then flicked open he was alone on a bloodied bed and strapped down. He was alone in this white room. He turned his head to see the radiant one standing before his bed. “You are awake.” “W-what?” “What is your name?” “D-Domonic. Where am I?” The sliver ox undid the straps, releasing him from the bed.

Domonic looked at his hands they were huge. The radiant one placed his hand on his shoulder. “We are brothers now, call me Taurus.” He slowly nodded. “So...I am a demi-god?” “Of war? Yes. But your training does not end here. Silentus..his robes.” The astartes in white armour came over with a black robe. Domonic hopped off the bed and took it, he placed it on his body. “Now follow me.” said Taurus. He left the white room with his new brother. As the word brother crossed his mind, saying it was so natural.

Now within the hallway, he towered over humans it was somewhat exhilarating. But he was plagued by one question. “Tell me...when will get armour like yours?” “Soon, but first you need to do this phase of training. A most important one.” Domonic scratched his head, Taurus bought him to door and there were five others waiting there. They were also in black robes, right away one approached him. “You are awake!” Domonic furrowed his brows “Excuse me?” He pointed at himself. “It’s me Noel!” He thought about it for a moment he then nodded. “We...trained together right?” “Yes! Look my hair is white now!” He pulled his short hair to express the point. Taurus shook his head, Domonic barked Noel. “We are astartes! Stop acting like a child!” His brother rubbed his neck. “Sorry…” Taurus clapped to get their attention. “Now if you please enter the room, your trainer is there waiting.” All of them walked in, right away he could tell it’s an armoury full of weapons. He scanned the room until he placed his eyes on someone he recognised them. The helmet stirred his memory but this time he was wearing his hood. Noel pointed “it’s one-eye!” One-eye coughed slightly. “It’s Asriel or Inferus if you prefer. I will be your trainer for the first phase.” Domonic frowned, he could see his other brothers are not pleased either. “Why is a human training us? We are demi-gods.” save Noel everyone nodded in agreement.

The human folded his arms “hence why this is the first phase. Yes you are astartes, yes you are demi-gods of war. But you can still die, I am here to curb expectations.” He pulled a two handed sword from his back. “All of you pick a weapon, you will train and use that from now on.” Domonic curled his lips in disgust who is this human to order us around? Even so he walked around and eyed each of the weapons. He stopped in front of a spear, it looked dignified, clean even. He picked it from the stand. He looked over to his brothers, all of them choose clean weapons like him. Blades and a bolt-pistol. He scanned the room for Noel and to his dismay he picked out a eviscerator. He walked towards him. “Why don’t you pick something else?” he asked. His brother frowned “but...I like this one. Can’t wait to cut a man in half with it.” “The weapon...it’s ugly.” Noel shook his head “I think this weapon is beautiful.” The human then clapped “right has everyone chosen?” “I don’t like him.” Dominic whispered. Noel looked at him in confusion “why? He is our trainer.” “Just watch brother..” He eyed the human and he charged with his spear, his body felt wonderful, the speed and control. He thrusted with his spear, he blinked and the human was now gone. He then felt a sharp pain at the side of his body, he looked down to see a blade impaled in his body. The human was now to his side. He tore the blade through his body, Domonic fell to the ground. Blood gushing from the wound. The human raised his finger “first lesson never underestimate an enemy.” He knelt and touched his wound, the pain vanished. He gasped as the human rose.

He got up using his spear to support himself. “Y-you are..” “Yes, I am human but don’t forget I have a few centuries over you. All of you are still sixteen, you have been given a great body but you don’t know how to use it. As I said I am here to curb expectations.” Noel walked over while grinning. “I think I like him.” Domonic scowled in annoyance.

This message was edited 3 times. Last update was at 2018/06/19 16:44:40


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 15
Asriel placed the plate of food on Taurus’ table he could see he was looking over the reports of the new recruits. “So what do you think?” said Asriel. Taurus smiled “I think they are doing well, the first phase put them on the straight and narrow. This...Domonic is training quite hard from my observations.” “It’s his pride, I think it would be wounded far more if he found out I am the cook.” “At times pride has to be wounded to reach the next step in perfection.” Asriel nodded “I agree, do you think the imperium has found your work on the last planet?” “I assume so, having the population impaled on spikes as a testament to our victory is a wonderful parting gift. Even the daemons were pushing on the edges of reality in order to gaze at it.” He smiled as he spoke, the last few years he has regained his confidence but at the same time he now understood why his title is the merciless king. He is not swayed by the cries of the populace, at times what depravities he inflicts upon the followers of the false-emperor surprises even him. But what keeps confounding him is that he always looks so majestic doing it, in his eyes he guessed since they are the enemy they deserve no mercy no matter if they picked up a gun or not.

He watched Taurus begin eating “what meat is this?” “It’s from the last planet. The beast that it is from it’s called Gomax.” His captain nodded “the meat is tough but succulent. Maybe we should go back there?” “I recall we hunted them to extinction when we were last there. We used some of the populace as bait remember?” Taurus nodded. “Oh...yes I remember now. Then we impaled them on spikes right? That’s what happened right?” “That is indeed what we did.” His captain placed his knife and fork down. “The company needs a proper challenge. We are almost back to full strength.” “Well we are nearing the planet of Malsidar, it recently fell under attack. I recall a space marine chapter are there at the moment.” Taurus grinned “so two potential enemies…tell me do you know if it’s a thin blood chapter?” Asriel pulled out his dataslate and went through the report given to him by Sagax. “Yes, it’s a thin blood chapter called the Shadow Hunters.” “Unfortunate, but no matter we will trample them into the dust. Plus we require slaves and soldiers. Tell Sagax to set a course to the planet.” Asriel nodded he sent a message to the commander of the bridge. “So Inferus how are your lessons with Tetricus?” “Well...he is calling me by my name now.” His captain nodded. “What about Silentus I hear he is training you in wielding a blade.” “Yes he is, I am thankful for his lessons.” He then heard a knock on the door. “Come in!” Taurus called out.

The doors opened, the leader of the cult shuffled in, he wore a black robe with snake symbols dangling from his waist. His arms were also covered in spiked leather straps and from Asriel’s observation it’s piercing his skin. As he approached the table he got on his knees. “Radiant one.” “High priest Dalvin, is there a problem?” Dalvin dipped his head lower. “I just...have a request.” “Speak then.” “Thank you my lord, you made a glorious sacrifice on the last world. I was just wondering on the next we could spend time growing the flock.” “So you wish draw the populace into depravity and degradation?” “I like to think of it as joyous worship my lord.” “Very well.” Dalvin’s head shot up, clear appreciation lined his face. “Thank you!” he rose and bowed. Taurus gestured him out “you may leave.” The high priest kept bowing as he walked back and left the room. Asriel shook his head. “I am surprised they obey orders.” “That’s why I support them Asriel. I have to appreciate their dedication to the faith and the most important thing. They obey orders, if I knew they existed in the lower levels of the ship I would of embraced them sooner.” “I thought you considered the lower levels just to be muck and refuse?” “Yes...but we did not have much choice in the matter considering past events….” Taurus began eating again, Asriel folded his arms. “So are you going to use the sirens?” His captain swallowed. “Of course I am going to use the sirens. Plus Tetricus is training the new recruits so he won’t be there.” “What of the chalkboard?” Taurus gave him a look, the sort of look telling him why he is asking such a question.

After a few minutes he finished his food and placed his helmet on his head. “Right I have a plan to enact I will meet you at the tunnel entrance.” Asriel took the plate from the table and placed it on the cart. “I will meet you there.” His captain rose from the table and began walking, watching him as he left the room he could see the confidence in his stride again. That prospect pleased Asriel.

Dominic attacked the sorcerer, he dodged each strike with ease and pushed him back with his witchcraft, he was sent hurtling across the room. As he crashed to the ground Noel ran forward trying to slash the sorcerer with his eviscerator again he smoothly dodged each attack, he then made a gesture, Noel began floating in the air and was slammed on the ground. Tetricus shook his head. “I am getting quite bored of this to be honest.” he yawned. “One more time!” Dominic pleaded. Despite now having his armour he thought the training would get easier, but it has become far more harder. The sorcerer sighed heavily “very well.” Dominic rose and attacked again. The sorcerer evaded his attacks like he is a child. He then raised his hand freezing him in place, Dominic couldn’t breathe he gasped for air. From the corner of his eye he watched Noel rise, he attacked the sorcerer from his side, without even giving a glance Tetricus raised his other hand and held his brother in place. They both struggled for freedom.

The sorcerer then lowered his hands he walked around each of them. “This isn’t good enough, you will not even be able to keep up with the captain.” He shook his head. He gestured and the power gripping their bodies vanished, Dominic fell to the ground with a thud. He rubbed his neck as he sat upright. “O-one more time.” The sorcerer sighed “I wonder what has gotten you so worked up?” “He is annoyed that a human beat him.” said Noel. “Shut up!” Dominic barked. “It was a fluke! Nothing more!” He got up and pointed his spear at Tetricus. “I have been blessed with this body...I am a demi-god of war!” Tetricus then nodded like he understood something. “Ah… I see. It seems my little apprentice roughed you up a little. Of course you won’t beat him, you are a newborn compared to him and it seems that Taurus’ lesson has not been fully delivered.” The sorcerer raised his hand it began glowing with purple energy. “You think that you are above me?” Dominic began taking a few steps back. His hearts were beating rapidly. “I am not afraid of you…” “You should be boy, let the pain I deliver here be a lesson..and I assure you...that you won’t enjoy it.” Bolts of purple energy launched from his hand and crashed into his body, he screamed in pure agony.

Asriel jogged up to the tunnel entrance, Taurus was waiting there with the chalkboard as always. “So...why don’t you tell him that you are using them?” “Why should I?” “Well...he seems more worried for your safety than the fact you are using them.” His captain shrugged, he pressed the button to open up the tunnel entrance he pushed the chalkboard forward into the tunnel. Asriel sighed and followed his captain. As they walked Taurus asked. “Do you have any idea who is attacking the planet?” Asriel pulled out the dataslate he went through Sagax’s report again. “Well it seems the Drukhari are attacking the planet.” At mention of dark eldar Taurus started to chuckle. “To trample xeno’s and loyalists? This is most fortunate…” He noticed when it comes to killing xeno’s and specifically eldar Taurus now gets excited. He wondered whether it’s the hold the dark prince has on his soul or whether he was always like that. He then thought of his original title and decided it’s clear this has always been the case, anything that is not human he crushes into the dust.

They soon entered Tertricus’ room, his captain set the chalkboard in the middle of the room. He flipped the board to face him and got a piece of chalk ready. He called out each of the sirens names and instead of straining on their chains they bowed in respect. They sang their song and an image was conjured. Asriel stared at it, “It seems the dark eldar control most of the city.” Taurus began drawing on the chalkboard “Indeed, they control the centre of the city the plaza, they also hold the south, west and east as well.” He nodded. “Daemons! Shift the image to the north!” the sirens obeyed, the image showed the north of the city. It holds the grand cathedral Malsidar, Asriel also spotted scouts and tactical marines in black cloaks jumping from rooftop to rooftop. Taurus then pointed the piece of chalk at him. “You will push them to the cathedral.” he blinked in shock “it’s a whole company Taurus.” “Not the whole company, it’s clear they prefer stealth tactics so I assume the main force is at the cathedral. Just scanning the city it’s clear the dark eldar have them outnumbered. At the moment the Shadow Hunters are launching guerilla warfare against the dark eldar delaying them while they wait for more reinforcements.” He folded his arms. “I never heard of an astartes company requiring reinforcements.” “well they do. Look at their gear.” Asriel narrowed his eyes and he had to admit their gear looked quite poor. Also scanning their numbers it’s far lower than a normal sized company. “They are struggling to survive.” Taurus nodded “exactly, so they would want to conserve their numbers.”

His captain then started making crosses on squad movements. “Kill three scout squads and they will pull back to the main cathedral.” “Right what will you be doing?” Taurus chuckled “what else? Liberating my fellow man from foul xenos.” “Liberating?” “Well yes, the people will see the glory of the third legion and the dark prince. They will serve this company, they will serve their saviors…” Staring at his captain now, he had to admit he looked the part. Most third legion chaos lords debaucheries are clear to see one one’s armour. Taurus looks like a leader, a guiding sun and what is obvious to him if he asks someone to brutalise another they would do it without hesitation. “I see your point, I almost feel sorry for the eldar.” Taurus flicked towards him. “Never feel sorry for the xeno Asriel.” he said firmly. Asriel rubbed his neck. “Sorry captain. I take back my words.” He nodded “good overall I do feel this assault is going to turn out well. Plus it will be good to see who is worth my time in this company.” “Worth your time? How so?” he watched him pull out his dataslate from his pouch, Asriel nodded in understanding. “Oh...I see.”

Dominic body still felt sore, but the prospect of war caused the pain to subside somewhat. He was walking with Noel to the war room and he was grinning ear to ear in anticipation. “Hey Dominic who do you think we are fighting?” “I don’t know and I don’t care. I just wish to show the enemy what it means to stand against a demigod.” His brother frowned slightly “come on...can’t you be a little more joyous at the prospect of killing someone?” “I will only be joyous in killing a worthy opponent.” “Like one-eye then?” He scowled in annoyance. “He is not a worthy opponent! He is just a human!” “If you say so.” They soon came to the war room door as they entered it was full of their brothers. He even saw the sorcerer who smirked as he looked at him. Dominic clenched his hands “he only beat me because he had witchcraft…” Noel snickered “stop making excuses you lost, all you can do is get better.” “I am better than him! I am more pure...I am not marred by sorcery.” His brother shrugged, he was about to say something until the door opened again, he saw it was their captain. Both he and Noel stood aside to give him room.

As he walked in he could not help but notice he was pushing a chalkboard. Lord Taurus moved the object to the front of the war room screen and flipped the chalkboard to display a detailed map of a city. Noel came over confusion lining his face. “Dominic...is that?” “Yes...a chalkboard. Now pay attention.” Their captain then clapped to get everyone’s attention. He then pulled out a metal extendable rod from his pouch and planted it on the chalkboard. “This is the city of Malisdar, it has been taken by the foul eldar due to the neglect of the followers of the false emperor. We will liberate this city and bring the faith of the dark prince and the glory of the third legion to the miserable humans that live in this city! The-” Dominic eyed the sorcerer raising his hand. Lord Taurus pointed at him with the metal rod. “What is it Tetricus?” “The map is extremely detailed...did you use my sirens again!?” The metal rod sweeped over all of them. “Does anyone have any actual questions?” said Taurus. “Don’t you dare try to ignore me! How many times have I told you that they are dangerous!” His captain ignored the sorceror’s ranting. “The Drukhari control the centre, south, east and western most parts of the city. We will begin our assault at these three locations” He pointed at the southern, western and eastern parts of the city with the rod. “The company will be divided into three parts. Tetricus will lead one part of the company in taking the western area, I lead the other part in taking the southern area. While Silentus the apothecary of our company will lead the rest in taking the eastern area. Then all three forces will push towards the centre.” Dominic raised his hand “who will guard the areas after we leave?” Lord Taurus pointed the metal rod at him. “The serpent cult will come and garrison each area. I am sure the people who we liberate will be more than happy to aid us. From there our whole company will move towards the northern part of the city.” Dominic stroked his chin “what of the imperial forces?” “The Shadow Hunters chapter will be contained you don’t have to worry about them until we assault the northern part of the city.” Noel scratched his cheek. “I wonder who will be containing them?” Dominic sighed slightly “I actually hoped to test myself against another astartes.” Even so he clenched his hands in excitement, soon he will get to taste real war.

He huddled with the others, the cold biting at the lash sores on his body. But that pain reminded him that he was alive. It reminded him that he had to endure this harsh torment for a moment more. He did not even dare to look upon the invaders, xeno’s in black spiked armour. Catching even a glance he could see they had high cheekbones and pointed ears but he knew better than to stare. To stare might make you the next victim, so since being stuffed in this cage he kept his back to the door like the others. He cried, he weeped tears of anguish. Some of the newcomers say that the space marines are here to save them, but since he was dragged from his home he has not seen hide or hair of the emperor’s angels. He could not even muster a prayer.

His lot was to hear the cries of anguish from his fellows and the laughter of xeno’s. But...he heard a whistling sound it was distant, yet it kept creeping closer and closer until some of his fellow prisoners are now looking up. He watched their eyes light up, one even grabbed him. “James! Look!” He shook his head. “I can’t…” he did not want any false hope, it would make the lash hurt more. He buried his head into his arms he closed his eyes until he heard a crash behind him. Then a large bellow. “Kill the xenos! Send their souls screaming to the dark prince!” He then heard the discharging of weapons, the cutting of limbs but the screams of humans did not greet his ears, it was the screams of the xeno’s. James slowly raised his head, he turned it slowly to see space marines jumping out of strange contraptions. They charged into the xeno’s cutting them to pieces or blasting them apart with ranged weapons. Right away he launched himself at the spiked bars “Please! Help me!” soon as he cried out for help everyone did the same. His eyes drifted to the one who he assumed to be the leader, he looked majestic, a true angel and the halo shaped like a eight-pointed star captivated him. Each time he stabbed and shot a xeno it thrummed with pink energy, a soft voice played across his mind telling him that it’s going to be alright.

Dominic twirled his spear, the dark eldar was edging around him looking for an opening. He charged cursing him in it’s foul alien tongue. He bought his spear down slashing into their shoulder, the eldar cried out in agony. The screams oddly pleased him, to know that he is suffering, Dominic pushed his spear down cutting deeper, as the blade tip moved his lips quivered someone at the back of his mind was telling him to extend the xeno’s suffering. He removed his weapon and thrusted his weapon into the eldar’s chest causing a gout of blood to erupt from their mouth. He finally twisted his spear killing the xeno. As he died a strange heat gripped his body as the eldar fell off his weapon. That heat then turned into a nagging need to kill more. He looked around searching for Noel, he then heard him laughing. He turned his head in the direction of the sound to see his brother bringing his weapon down upon a dark eldar tearing their armour and flesh.

The way the xeno moved, how they trashed and tried to push the weapon off their body. He oddly felt jealous of his brother. He shook his head dismissing the thought. “No...he picked an ugly weapon.” He scanned the southern camp to see almost all the Drukhari are dead all that is left is the baying humans screaming for freedom. Taurus walked over to one of the cages, he tore off the door and right away the humans huddled around him in thanks, touching his armour and bowing to him in what looks to be prayer. Dominic curled his lips in disgust. “How dare they…” Noel whistled “That was fun.” His brother then looked at him and then at their captain. “Are you jealous Dominic?” “N-no! Humans should know their place!” “Yes...but we are their saviors, this is an..opportunity.” “Opportunity?” he nodded. “Come let’s go open a cage.” He walked with Noel to a cage, he gestured to it. “Open it.” Dominic looked at the humans reaching out pleading for salvation. He grimaced and walked over to the cage, he pulled the door off with a quick tug. The humans streamed out of the spiked cage and huddled around him looking up to him in clear thanks. Some even called him one of the emperor's angels.

He looked and Noel and nodded in understanding. “We were not sent by the emperor” Soon as he said that they all looked at him in confusion. “The emperor did not protect you...we did. The third legion are envoys of the dark prince and slaanesh. You owe your lives to us and to him.” All of them nodded quickly in understanding. “This sense of liberation and freedom you feel? Such a feeling will be eternally yours if you serve us.” The humans began praising him and the dark prince, touching his armour for good luck. In this state the humans will be easily converted by the cult and they will know who their masters are. He even had to admit the praise and adulation felt good.

Noel grinned as he gestured to their captain “it’s time to go, the cult are coming. We still have more eldar to kill.” Dominic turned to the middle of the southern eldar camp. He pushed aside the humans gathering around him and approached his captain with Noel tagging along behind him. Taurus then pointed to the north with his sabre. “We will take the centre, I suspect the Archon is there. But...I have a plan for them.” Noel frowned “a plan?” “Yes, the dark eldar thinks of us as mere apes to be used at their leisure. We shall see if they liked the roles reversed. Come.” Lord Taurus began running down the street, everyone followed him, Dominic smiled at the prospect of killing more eldar.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Now...with Taurus' warband I want to look at another aspect of slaanesh. One that I feel is not normally shown. I wonder if people can see hints of it?
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 16
Noah ran the rooftops with with a scout squad, as a shadow stalker they must watch and learn from his example. He had to make sure every move is precise. He stopped and looked around the camo-cloak shifting with his movement. Despite wearing power armour the tech-priests ensure that the servo’s are as quiet as possible which makes stealth operations more feasible. He then knelt and looked through the scope of his stalker-pattern bolter. He could see traitors running through the streets and what is far more worrying is that they are liberating the humans captured. They are making the mortal’s jump into the arms of heresy without them even realising it. “We should shoot now…” Noah looked back to scout Nicolas. “No, we can’t give away our position. We will scout out their bases, get a bead on their numbers and capabilities. It’s clear they are going to take the dark eldar camps. No- ” Before he could say anything further one of the scouts died a gout of blood and purple fire erupting from his body. “To cover!” all of them moved to cover, Noah scanned the area in front of them, he could not see anyone. He scanned the back as well, he could not spot anyone. He cursed in frustration. The chapter could not afford to lose scouts, the blackfang company is already on it’s last legs. He then heard another scream, he eyed his tactical feed, another scout’s name turned dark it was just him and Nicolas. “Who is attacking us!?” hissed Nicolas. “Hold positions!” “But we are sitting ducks out here!” “If we move we would be out in the open against an unknown enemy!” “Said unknown enemy is picking us off!” Noah grew silent, he rubbed the back of his neck in frustration. He then heard a gargled scream, Nicolas’ name faded away.

Noah cursed he was about to rise until he felt a sharp pain in his gut, his insides were burning. He looked down to see a sword lodged in his abdomen, it was thrumming with pink fire. The blade then twisted, blood poured from his lips, his vision was going dark.

Asriel twisted the blade and removed it, the astartes fell back onto the ground. He sheathed the blade and tore off the camo-cloak grinning like a child. “Man these things are neat! Colour shifting material...they looked almost invisible” he held the now black cloak up he did not exactly need it, but it would be helpful. He had to admit if he wasn’t a psyker he would not be able to see them. Now Tetricus’ lessons started setting in, once you master the basics more complex techniques become more simple. He tore off his old cloak and wrapped the new cloak about his form, he then got his sniper rifle ready. “One down, two to go.”

Archon Bazemar sat on his throne made out of mon-keigh bone and flesh, the large stage placing him at a higher elevation than the curs and mon-keigh. Still he ground his teeth annoyance all three camps have gone silent. He wondered if it’s betrayal? Or perhaps the mon-keigh forces actually broke through somehow? He then felt a reassuring touch from his Lhamaen Iyeshia. “Who cares for the lives of fools? We will take back what belongs to you.” He slowly nodded. “Yes, you are right the fools failed completely and utterly.” He rose from his throne surveying his kabal. The Kabal of the blackened heart. He watched those below him harvest pain from the cattle, he then tore his eyes away from them his hatred for his lessers began consuming his heart in a raging inferno. He sat on his throne again thinking of how to deal with the situation. “If they took all our camps in one go that means they are coming here.” He looked up to Iyeshia “Get my lessers to ready the defences for an attack.” She inclined her head to him. “It will be done.” He watched her leave, he stared at his kabal, the flames of hatred still stroking his heart. Everything they do is poor, from how they harvest pain to fighting. He just hopes they can actually fight when the attack comes, but he doubts it in the end it always comes down to him carrying his forces to victory.

Dominic watched Taurus run, he was several meters ahead of them. He panted while running, frustration was consuming him utterly. “Why is he leaving us behind!?” Noel ran next to him. “I-I don’t know!” he kept creeping further and further ahead. Several other astartes ran over next to him and Noel. “He does this all the time…” Dominic looked over to his brother. “What do you mean?” “He runs ahead leaving us behind. But…” he looked around. “We could find some slaves for ourselves. I am sure there are some hiding in the city.” Noel snorted “I doubt the captain will like that.” Dominic nodded in agreement. “Yes, we have our orders.” He could see the group sighing slightly, his brother then placed his hand on his pauldron. “Look we have the chance to have a little fun. Humans are meat for us to feel, some even beg us to do it.” Noel frowned “you can have your fun, I am going to catch up with Lord Taurus I don’t want to be left behind.” He started to run even harder, he was now several paces ahead of him.

The group that wanted to break off then looked expectantly at him, despite wearing helmets it’s clear enough they want him to come. He thought about it, that it would be fun. It’s clear that the company will handily win the conflict. He then looked forward to see Noel is actually catching up to Taurus. His captain then gave a curt nod to his brother. Seeing that, the need for his captain’s approval overrode the want to torture humans. He shoved his brother’s hand back to his annoyance and ran as fast as he could. He pushed himself, he just kept his eyes on Taurus slowly and steadily he caught up. Noel chuckled “so you made your decision?” “I have. I would rather kill xeno’s with our captain. I am sure that would be much more fun.” Lord Taurus then turned his head to him and gave a curt nod. That gesture swelled his hearts until he hear the shouts of xeno’s. He could see them getting their guns ready, his captain then drew his bolt-pistol and emptied his magazine, every single shot was a headshot to Dominic’s shock.

He then quickly reloaded and fired again. Dominic cursed in frustration that he did not have a ranged weapon, but Taurus’ clear skill is causing the dark eldar to take a few steps back. After a few seconds more of running his captain then leaped forward drawing his weapon. He twirled with is blade in almost simple movements, severing arms and legs. He could not help but stare at his bladework in pure awe. The blood almost whirled around him slightly as he sliced away at the Drukhari. In short few seconds the dark eldar were dead. The entrance was clear. Dominic then heard shouts from his brothers that were coming from the west and east. Taurus looked upon them. “Only two? Disappointing.” “Did we do something wrong?” His captain then turned away from them without saying anything further, he walked into the camp. Noel shrugged, they followed their captain into the camp and what they saw was much of the same, lowly humans in cages and xeno’s having their way with scattered humans in the camp. But what the xeno’s did not expect is to be outnumbered.

The rest of the company swarmed into the camp, Dominic spotted that the leader was trembling with rage as he jumped off the stage. He started cursing and hurling vulgarities in his alien tongue. Taurus looked over to Tetricus who just entered the camp with his group. “Tetricus! I want the eldar alive!” The sorcerer nodded and chanted great eldritch power began emitting from his staff he slammed the haft of the staff onto the ground. The dark eldar looked around in confusion before they fell to the ground with a thud. All of them were struggling to get up. “What’s going on?” said Dominic. Taurus turned his head to him. “When I said the roles are going to be reversed? I meant it. Go free the humans.” His captain then went around the camp gathering the dark eldar shackles. His mind raced wondering what he is going to use them for.

Dominic stood at the back of the stage watching over the chained dark eldar who have now been stripped of all their gear and armour. He stood guard over the shivering xeno’s with Noel, Tetricus, Silentus and several other astartes. The cult has now taken over the camps and the humans freed from each of them are now gathered in the plaza. He frowned we should be heading north. He told himself, he looked over to Noel who was simply wondering what was going on. If he had to be honest with himself he could not help but wonder as well. He looked over to Tetricus. “What are we doing with them?” The sorcerer chuckled “I honestly don’t know but considering all of the dark eldar’s gear has been taken away I guess it’s not going to be good for them.” Dominic stared at one of the eldar, they looked to be cursing. “What is it saying?” “Well she is calling us apes and other vulgarities. But I assume her hatred will bleed away once our captain enacts whatever plan he desires with the xeno’s.” He then placed his eyes on Taurus waiting for him to speak. His captain then gestured out with his hands. He began speaking the vox of his helmet increasing the volume of his voice. “People of Malisdar! Look upon your saviors! See the ones who delivered you from the hands of the xeno’s!” Dominic stared at the human faces, some were crying and already making prayers to the dark prince. He was surprised with how fast they converted. Taurus then gestured at the dark eldar. “These foul creatures abused you! They thought in their arrogance that they are above humanity! But they are a broken race! They scamper around the galaxy hoping to change an outcome that is already set in stone!” The humans began shouting jeers at the xeno’s, he could tell that some of their vigour returned to their voices. “Tell me...tell me! Who delivered you from those cages!?” The crowd shouted back “The third legion!” “Who is your true god!?” “Slaanesh!” the crowd cried back. Taurus then spoke with venom in his voice. “What is the emperor to you!?” “False! False! False!” the beaten crowd began standing up right, cheering for them, for the third legion and the dark prince. He could not help but admit it felt good, it felt far more better than than the praise he received from the small group of humans he freed. The sensation was almost euphoric.

Taurus nodded he then walked over to the chained dark eldar, he grabbed two by the neck and right away they struggled for freedom. He lifted both dark eldar over the crowd. Their cheers grew quiet. A deathly silence spread over the plaza. Taurus began speaking again. “My company has a mantra! You will serve the 4th or be crushed beneath it’s hooves!” He then lowered his voice. “These eldar, serve us in their own ways.” He looked at each human at the front of the crowd. Dominic got the sense he gave the humans the feeling that he actually cared for them. “We have a holy task to teach these eldar that they belong to the dark prince. That their lives are no longer theirs! I say this to you...soldiers of the 4th, servants of the 4th. Break these eldar, use them how you wilt, crush them how you wilt, inflict any depravity that touches your mind as you send their souls hurtling back to our god!” He threw both xeno’s into the crowd, the people parted as they fell onto the ground. Domonic looked at the faces of the eldar, instead of arrogance or hatred he saw genuine fear. For just a second it was like time stood still until the crowd fell upon the xeno’s with fists or makeshift weapons.

The cries of relief, rage, hatred and even desire washed over him. It was almost too much. But he heard a rattling he looked at the dark eldar, some were trying to run, Tetricus gestured with his staff to freeze them in place. The panic in their eyes increasing. His captain grabbed another two and threw them into the crowd. All Domonic saw was pale flesh mixed with that of humans and splashes of blood. His captain kept throwing them into the crowd until lastly they got to the two leaders. They both watched their fellows getting torn apart or to serve in the crowds depravities. The female shook her head and spoke in her tongue. He looked at the sorcerer “What did she say?” “She does not want to humans to touch her.” “Oh.” His captain then grabbed both of their necks. Soon as he touched them both started cursing and screaming. “Now they are cursing.” “I think I am aware of that.” Dominic said amusement.

Taurus threw them into the crowd, they vanished in the tide of blood. He then gestured “Dominic come here.” He froze up slightly as his name was called, he walked to the front of the stage. “Yes captain?” “Look at them.” He did as ordered. He stared at them, the masses revelling in excess. At most he could not help but feel the mortals are lucky to even get such a treat from their masters. In the end humans are base creatures. “Do not hate them.” “W-what?” Taurus turned his head to him. “Do not hate them, they are beneath us...instead pity them. Very few humans rise above their base urges, their base excesses. Who you should hate are xeno’s and the followers of the false emperor. Save that burning hatred for them.” “So...you don’t hate humans?” Taurus faced the crowd as an arm flew up in the air. “To be honest with myself, I used to hate them. The lower levels of the ship used to be a destitute hell hole. Very few humans were worth my time. But then I realised that some...are dedicated to the same path we are. Dedicated to perfection.” His captain nodded. “So that hatred merely turned to pity, I hope and pray that humans work past their base urges to walk the path of perfection.” He then pointed at a group of astartes who were entering the camp covered in the blood. “Look at them.” Dominic stared at the group he was pointing at. “They…” “Are the rest of your group.” “They left to satisfy their base urges. Acting like the victory celebration has already occured.” He nodded. “In the past all I would feel is annoyance or anger but I now pity my brothers. They should be betters than this, but they prefer to act like humans.” Taurus suddenly shook his head. “No...I lie they act worse than humans. The one’s in front of us and the cult are dedicated to our cause. In the end I suspect when true conflict comes our brothers who split away on the run will be the first to die. I want you to look upon the people on this stage.” Dominic did as he bade he stared at each of them. “The ones on this stage Dominic are the ones who have my confidence.” “Does that include me?” Dominic frowned in annoyance. “Him.” Taurus chuckled “Inferus, where are you?” The air shimmered slightly, bleeding away to reveal one-eye in a new cloak. “So you were listening to that whole conversation?” said Taurus. One-eye nodded. “Then yes you are included. If we survive the battle be sure to cook a good meal for the ones on the stage.” One-eye saluted but as he mentioned meal. Dominic rubbed his head in confusion.

He then pointed at the human. “Wait!? He is the cook!?” Taurus shrugged “is there a problem?” Dominic shook his head. “T-that’s….impossible.” “Told you his pride will get wounded.” His captain folded his arms. “Have you completed your mission?” “Yes, three scout squads are dead. As you said they are falling back to the cathedral.” He watched Taurus place his eyes on the sorcerer. “Ready some of the cultists for the assault on the cathedral.” Tetricus gave a small bow. “It shall be done.” He then pointed at him. “You will be with me just like before.” Soon as he heard that the annoyance at the revelation vanished he smiled in anticipation. “Yes captain.”

This message was edited 7 times. Last update was at 2018/06/20 00:14:28


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





I really hope people like chapter 16. Also this war is not ending soon BTW.

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 2018/06/20 00:14:58


 
   
Made in ca
Longtime Dakkanaut






Toronto

Haha good. Was away for a few days and read for a surprisingly long time. Great work putting out so much, I really enjoyed it!

Adepta Sororitas: 3,800 Points
Adeptus Custodes: 8,100 Points
Adeptus Mechanicus: 8,400 Points
Alpha Legion: 4,400 Points
Astra Militarum: 7,500 Points
Dark Angels: 16,800 Points
Imperial Knights: 12,500 Points
Legio Titanicus: 5,500 Points
Slaaneshi Daemons: 3,800 Points
 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 17
Girifor Blackfang held his stalker-pattern bolter at the ready. He waited for the assault that is coming, he had word that traitors have come to the world and drew all the people of the city into heresy. But what confounded him is how it happened in such a short time and the fact he lost three scout squads in quick successions along with their shadow stalkers. To preserve what they had he had to order the rest to fall back. Now he waited at the makeshift cover with the rest of his company along with the PDF. But what set him off is that the streets are far too quiet. He waited, gripping his bolter tightly, then he heard it footsteps, hundreds of them and the chanting of the profane tongue of the ones who live in the shadowlands of their chapter homeworld. From the corner a stream of humans rushed down the road, they wore no shirts and they were whipping their backs, just from their faces he could see they were in an ecstatic frenzy. Girifor yelled “open fire!” All across the line the soldiers of the emperor and astartes lay a hail of fire at the heretics. They were crying in adulation and prayer as their fellows died and as las-fire burned their skin and bolter rounds blew off their limbs. They called the pain being delivered upon them to be a blessing by their dark god.

Girifor shouted, disgust lining his voice. “Stand firm! For the emperor!” he reloaded his bolter and continued firing, the wave of cultists edged closer and closer but through superior firepower none reached the defensive line. Girifor fired a round into a heretic, his chest exploding as the bolter round crashed into his chest and with that silence greeted the road again. He nodded “that was the chaff! Hold fast!” it’s a common tactic employed by traitors, send in the mislead humans to die in order to waste ammunition. “Blackfang.” his brother called. He turned his head to him, “What is it Kalos?” “The corpses…” his eyes fell upon the corpses, they were convulsing on the ground. All of the dead began getting up to their feet. “By the emperor….” he was in disbelief, yet it got worse. From the missing limbs pale flesh with crab like claws shot out. He then began hearing laughter from a feminine voice at the back of his mind. After that a head shot out from the stump, it was utterly terrible to look at but it looked wonderful as the same time. A black tongue lashed out as it began tearing at the meat of the body, ripping it off with it’s crab claws to reveal a daemon in a black corset. Across all of the dead this was happening. The daemons charged the line but they were far faster than the mortal’s from before. “Open fire!” he ordered. As the battle began anew, as he killed he began to hear whispers in his mind, to give in. To give into the glory of excessive violence, to revel in the carnage as the daemons explode in wonderful pink ichor and vibrant lights. He grit his teeth. “No...I kill for the emperor. I kill to end the heretic and alien...” He pushed the voices away and continued firing. But the mortals were breaking, unable to see or handle what is before them.

Some even hopped over the makeshift cover and jumped into the arms of the daemons before being swiftly torn to shreds, screaming in agony but what disturbed Girifor even more is that he caught the hint of pleasure in their voice. He cursed in frustration, he knew that there were too many. The daemons began hopping over the the makeshift cover, the sang and scream as they piled on his brothers, they promised unending joy to the PDF and many accepted which lead to their deaths.

Girifor mag-locked his bolter and drew his power sword, he sliced a daemon in half. Pink ichor spraying on the ground. He looked around, more were hopping over the cover but what made it worse is when he heard heavy foosteps along with small ones. He turned his head down the street to see heretic astartes charging with cultists. He roared in frustration and moved to slice off the head of another daemon. “No matter!” he bellowed “If I die, I will take as many of you bastards with me!” He let the emperor guide his arm, he kept slaying until the end comes.

Taurus watched the defensive line crumble he smiled. “The volunteers did well.” Tetricus nodded “indeed they have.” “So how many of your group did as ordered?” “thirty or so.” He looked over to Silentus. “What of you brother?” He signed “my whole group did as ordered.” He nodded “makes sense, you two had most of the veterans, tried and tested but out of the recruits only two followed me.” Tetricus sighed slightly “some of them have already been through some battles.” “Yes and it’s concerning only two of the new recruits decided to try and reach me. But they are reliable which is good.” His brother signed at him. “You like them?” “I do, rough around the edges but with guidance they will become fine members of the 4th company. Now...let us focus on slaying followers of the false emperor.” They ran down the street and jumped over the makeshift cover, the daemons were already fighting the imperium’s forces.

Taurus searched for the leader of of the company, he spotted him slicing the head off a deamonette. The fang necklace jingled around his neck and the skull trophies around his waist swayed as he killed. Taurus charged at him, their eyes met and he roared at him in anger, as they got close their blades clashed together. “You led the populace to heresy!” the thin blood spat. “I delivered them.” Taurus retorted. The thin blood pushed him back and pointed his blade at him. “I am Girifor Blackfang of the Shadow Hunters you will die here heretic! Your life will be a sacrifice to the emperor!” Taurus placed one hand behind his back and leveled his blade at him. “I am Taurus of the 4th company. Unlike you I walked with the emperor during the unification wars. Saw his very light. Your life I offer it to the dark prince as the precursor of what is to come.” Girifor charged at him, he made rapid slashes and Taurus diverted each attack with ease. “You say I lead them to heresy, but what did you do for the people? Were you going to give them purpose? Hope? Or were you going to shackle them with chains again and make them slave away in factorum?” The thin blood barked back. “You offer a life of heresy and darkness!” “I offer purpose and servitude to something greater than the imperium. To be a servant of a god with with power. In darkness those who serve my 4th company find joy. But I assure you all the people here in the northern part of this city will be our slaves.” His words clearly stoked the fire in his opponent, his attack came down with both hands. Again he diverted the attack. “Also when my brothers kill you as a celebration we will nail your bodies to the cathedral and the buildings in this area. I am sure they will enjoy doing that.” Girifor attacked again, this time Taurus parried causing a gap in the thin blood’s guard. With a swift thrust he impaled Girifor in the chest, he removed his blade and made several quick thrusts in succession. The captain of the shadow hunters sank to his knees blood pouring from his mouth. “T-the..B-blood..A-angels...a-ar…” he collapsed to the ground.

Taurus flicked the blood off his blade. He sheathed it “I know, I personally can’t wait.” He looked upon the others, the daemons and his company are swiftly taking care of the defenders. Tetricus stode up to him. “What now?” “Well, what I want is for us to bring everything down.” “Even my sirens?” “Even them.” He faced the cathedral. “Also our brothers need to find some joy from this minor victory as well. Have them nail the shadow hunters to the buildings.” His company sorcerer nodded. “I will let them all know.” he then walked away. Taurus rested his hand on the handle of his blade. “Come angels...I am eager to face you.”

Lucretius placed his helmet on his head, he watched the primaris ready themselves for war. But staring at them a sense of annoyance always grips him. He has accepted it’s a likely possibility that he is obsolete but it keeps bothering him that none have fallen to the black rage. He then felt a tap on his pauldron he turned to his brother Fidelis another astartes who is most likely another remainder of an old age. His fair features does not have a single scar and his blonde hair was swept back. “You keep staring at them.” “I know…” “Are you thinking about Gaius?” “Yes….” “It can happen to anyone of us. At least he died in battle.” The annoyance flared slightly. “Then why hasn’t it happened to them? Yes they have the thirst but not one has succumbed to the rage.” “None have succumb yet.” Lucretius frowned “how many are left in this assault squad Fidelis?” “Five of us.” “Yes five, how many left with the company of primaris?” He sighed heavily. “Fifteen.” “Also have we been reinforced?” “No…” “Exactly.” “Lucretius you know they are the hope for the chapter. You can’t deny it.” He shook his head. “I know...it’s just..” “It’s not an easy thing feeling that you are being replaced. But we do our service to the chapter until death. All of them are our brothers.” He smiled at his fellow assault marine “You are right. Tell me what do you think of the planet we are assaulting? It has been taken by traitor forces.” “Yes, we are doing a full purge of the planet so the imperium can make use of the factorums.” “I see so where is our squad attacking?” “four squads are being deployed at the centre, eastern, western and southern part of the city. The rest of the company will fall upon the main cathedral where the main traitor host has garrisoned.” Lucretius nodded “right where are we heading then?” “We are attacking the eastern camp, it’s the most lightly defended according to augur readings.” Lucretius turned that information in his head. “I assume captain Maxon is sending us there due to our numbers?” Fidelis nodded in agreement. “Yes, that must be the case.” “Very well then, if that is what he desires let us get ready.”

Tetricus flew in with his sirens on the thunderhawk, all of them are chained together. As always he has to be alert for any signs of duplicity. “You never know with daemons..” he said out loud “Master…” he frowned and looked upon Tili’zithar. Her blonde hair shimmering as always. “Please leave me in the eastern garrison.” “No.” he responded firmly. “Why not?” “Because I won’t be there.” “I assure you it’s to the benefit of the company.” “Or to the benefit of the dark prince.” “What’s wrong with that?” Tetricus raised his staff at her, he purple light shone from it, the daemonhost hissed, some measure of her true form leaked through. “No is my answer daemon.” He lowered his staff, the light ebbed away. The creature grinned. “I was the first you bound, I assure you master I could easily break my bonds and kill you. But the dark prince willed me to stay until now.” “Is that a threat?” “Yes...it is.” He grumbled in annoyance. “Fine. But if you dare threaten him…” “I won’t I assure you.” He called out to the pilot. “Set course for the eastern camp.” “Very well.” the pilot responded. Tetricus shook his head he hoped that he would not regret this.

Taurus looked upon the cathedral, the shadow hunters have been nailed to the walls and stripped of all their gear of the church. What was good is that the the company completed the task with joy. At the same time he has been formulating a plan to deal with the blood angels. He opened up his communication channel with Inferus. “Is everyone in position?” “Yes they are captain. Are the blood angels really going to commit to that strategy?” “Of course they are, despite looking “majestic” they love close combat as much as the world eaters.” “Very well...all the cultist forces are in position.” “Good.” He opened the next communication line “Dominic are all our brothers on both lines?” “Yes, we are ready for the followers of the false emperor to attack us.” He then looked up to the sky “where on earth is Tetricus?” He waited for a few minutes until a thunderhawk came towards him from the distance, it landed and the bay doors opened to reveal his brother. Taurus approached the bay doors. “What were you doing?” “One of the daemonhosts wanted me to leave it at the eastern camp.” “I see.” “Are not curious why?” “Not really, I am sure whatever she does will be a benefit to the company.” His brother sagged his shoulders slightly. “I wish I could have your confidence in daemonhosts.” “Tetricus let’s focus on the conflict, come.” He began walking to the defensive line, his brother followed behind him with his sirens.

As they approached the road, the daemonettes who were torturing mortals trailed behind him. As he got to the defensive perimeter he gestured. “Tetricus I want you with the bolters we will keep the close combat squads from getting close. Your siren’s will disrupt the enemy and you will provide us with heavy ranged fire.” His brother nodded “very well” he stood at the reinforced cover, Taurus hopped over it with the daemons and walked to the front line. Dominic, Silentus, Noel and the other close combat specialists stood at the ready also. Silentus signed at him. “They enjoy your presence.” Taurus looked at the daemonettes, their claws are reaching forward to him but snap back before their claw gets too close, just like a forbidden fruit. He shrugged at what the daemons are doing. “As long as they kill my enemies it’s fine.” His brother then faced the road. “This is good…” “What is?” “Everything...this company, you as well.” “I see, I am pleased that you are happy, now get ready.” he looked up to the skies, a swathe of thunderhawks pieced them. “They are coming!”

Maxon watched the bay doors open, the reivers surrounding him are not exactly honourable to use but in these dark times they are necessary. Going by the communications the assault on the four camps are beginning, it’s only a matter of time before they come and reinforce them. The thunderhawk hovered near the ground, he drew his bolt rifle and power sword. “Come brothers! Time to kill the traitors!” He ran and jumped off the landing bay door. The reivers followed him. He looked upon the work of the heretic, every inch of the buildings have been touched by their foul hands. Loyal soldiers both human and astartes have been nailed onto building walls. He curled his lips in disgust and faced the defensive line. All of his brothers have gathered to rend the traitors asunder. “Forward! For the emperor! Hellblasters and Inceptors! Give us covering fire!” A hail of plasma and bolter fire lashed past him. He stared at the traitors with utter hatred, he also spotted daemons circling the heretic leader. “Charge!” He charged forward with the reivers. The covering fire crashed into some of the front line and the defensive perimeter of the heretics. The heretics then charged towards them, with their own supporting fire. Maxon aimed for the leader, the daemons circling him launched themselves at him. He raised his bolt rifle and fired several shots, causing the daemons to explode in a shower of pink gore, the reivers also swiftly entered close combat. Cutting and stabbing, Maxon could also tell that the traitor leader as also singled him out.

They raced towards each other, their blades met sparking together. “Hello there, I a-” he cut the traitor off. “I care nothing for your name, you honourless cur!” “Honour is an outdated concept.” Their blades clashed again and again, as they fought a strange song greeted his ears. He scowled and pushed it aside. “You think to use sorcery to stop me!?” “Well...it was worth a try.” Their blades sparked together, Maxon did not want to admit it but the traitor was skilled. “As always traitors use devious plans in order to win! How far you have fallen from the emperor’s grace!” The traitor leader gave a great laugh. “The emperor knows nothing of honour either, he did whatever it took to win. I know I was there during the unification wars. Even during the early days of the great crusade...” “Lies!” Maxon barked back. He pushed the traitor back, but he kept chuckling. “You see what you don’t understand blood angel. Battles are won by good soldiers. But wars are won by those who do whatever it takes to win...” Maxon heard a bang, it sounded like it came from a rifle. He watched one of the reivers names turn dark on his tactical feed. “W-what?” “You might want to look at the roofs.” He hates doing what a heretic asked of him but he found his gaze moving up. All along the roofs on the road he saw a shimmer, it died away to reveal humans with heavy weapons, grenades and sniper rifles. Maxon bought his gaze down to the traitor leader. He suddenly found both of his hearts slowing, time was moving to a crawl then came a loud bang and an explosions along with the screams of his brothers time returned to normal. He shook his head he roared in anger and charged the heretic. “Damn you!” As he ran he heard another discharge from a rifle, he felt a sharp pain and then nothing.

Taurus watched the blood angel’s captains head explode in a shower of purple fire. Across the whole street loyalists were being bombarded with cultist fire and explosives. He smiled to himself as he watched them all die. “This...is perfection…” He looked up towards Inferus and gave him a thumbs up. He returned it. “Tell me captain? What now?” “Well Inferus it’s time to secure the things necessary for our victory celebration.” “You mean the blood angels attacking the camps?” “Exactly! The company deserves it! Still I wonder what’s going on in the eastern camp?” “What do you mean?” “I mean we are heading there first.”

Lucretius readied himself for the jump he took deep breaths. “Right...it’s time to kill heretics.” He pressed the button to open the bay doors, his assault squad. Stood behind him. He turned his head to them and gave a nod. He ran and jumped off the landing bay he drew his power blade and bolt pistol. “For the emperor and Sanguinius!” All the members of the assault squad echoed the battle cry. As they fell he fired his bolt pistol killing several heretics but the closer he got to the ground he heard a strange song he furrowed his brow and scanned the battlefield. He spotted a female walking around the camp singing. He blinked, the song vanished and he saw flashes of a palace. He saw himself defending the gates of said palace against an army of traitors. He shook his head, the song came creeping back. “Ready for landing!” He activated his jump pack to break his fall, the heretics charged him with makeshift weapons. In fluid movements he sliced their heads and limbs sending them to the ground. As blood splashed on his armour he flared his fangs. But drew them back. “No..not now.” but again visions of the palace assaulted his senses, he continued slashing at the traitors trying to breach the palace. He roared “Death to the heretic!” The song suddenly pierced his senses cutting right through the vision, he felt his anger cooling slightly.

He was now on Malisdar, taking the eastern camp from heretics. That is his orders. Not to defend the palace. He pointed his bolt pistol at another traitor to the emperor and fired. He curled his lip in disgust. “Death to all who stray from the emperor!” He ran to another and sliced off their arm. Hot blood spilled across the ground, despite wearing a helmet for some reason he could smell it. He stopped and relaxed slightly. Fidelis’ voice came through the communication channel, he was clearly concerned “Lucretius? Are you alright?” He shook his head. “I am fine.” He continued killing heretics, but now he is on terra again, he rose high into the air on white pinions and slammed down on another traitor. He cut the head from another. He looked up to the sky he could see the vengeful spirit. He has accepted his brother Horus is a traitor, he must do all he can to push back the traitor assault from Terra. No...follow my song. He looked upon the waves of traitors, but there was someone odd mixed in the crowd singing a strange song. He saw a maiden with blonde shimmering hair. He blinked and found himself howling in fury as he sliced off the head of another heretic. He shook his head. “No I must focus on terra!” The song was a nuisance but he was being pulled towards it. It is your salvation. He looked at the howling masses of traitors, he could see the maiden. “I can’t leave the palace gates!” But the song called him, he obeyed his body and pushed through the traitor line slicing and dicing with Encarmine trying to reach her. A traitor then held him by the arm, he looked at the mutated atrocity and removed his head. He continued his journey through the tide of bodies. Two more grabbed him by both arms, he wrenched his blade arm free and slashed the other who held his arm. He looked upon the traitor who dared to touch his blade arm, in a swift thrust he impaled him with his word.

He rushed onwards to see a champion of the sons of horus stood in the way of the maiden. “You aim to harm her!? I won’t allow it!” The champion shook his head. “What are you doing!? Resist!” “I will resist until my last breath! I will destroy all traitors who seek to take Terra!” The champion raised his weapon. “Don’t make me do this…” The champion charged and attacked him, he blocked his attacks. “You are weak traitor!” he shouted. “I am your brother! Stop this madness! Come back!” “Lies!” he felt his anger intensifying, it was too much. He parried the traitor champion of the sons of horus causing his guard to open up he then impaled him with his blade, he twisted and kicked him off. Now he looked upon the maiden, all the hatred for the traitor was melting away. He felt at ease, but with that a strange desire and hunger. The song called him closer and closer, it seemed the presence of the maiden was enough to keep back the traitor horde.

He approached her and stared at the chains and metal helmet. “Are you a slave?” You are the slave. “No… I serve the emperor and the imperium. I…” Take my blood, revel in it. Free yourself of the past. He felt his mouth peeling back, he could feel his fangs scratching his tongue. But that wasn’t right, he then noticed he was taking off his helmet. He looked at it and chucked it aside. The smell of blood greeted is nose, he felt warm. But the maiden, her smell was captivating. He launched himself at her and sank his fangs into her neck. As the red liquid moved down his throat it tasted far better than the thralls on the ship. Far better than drinking it from the cup. He kept drinking. Revel in it. He nodded. For some reason the maiden was like a never ending foundation, with each drop he drank euphoria gripped him until it suddenly ran dry. He panicked, he needed more, he looked around. “I need more!” he dropped the maiden and rose. Frantically he looked around the image of terra bleeding away slowly to reveal Malisdar. Yet the traitors were still there. But he did not care where he was he needed blood. He looked around the camp, until he spotted the corpses of his fellow brothers. He saw Fidelis’ corpse his mouth dropped, but then he saw his glistening blood he sniffed. Right away he could tell it’s still warm. He launched himself at his corpse and drained greedily. He felt his sorrow, his agony to see him in such state but oddly it did not sway his heart to sadness he felt wonderful instead. The same euphoria that gripped him as he drank from the maiden thrummed through his body. He joyfully continued to feast on his dead brother.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





I really enjoyed.

Spoiler:
Writing the blood angel bit at the end.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 18
Taurus sat within the thunderhawk, Inferus, Tetricus and Silentus were with him. “I wonder what’s going on in the eastern camp?” said Taurus. His company sorcerer sighed. “I should of said no.” “It’s fine brother, I have a good feeling whatever we find that will be of use to us.” “If you say so.” The flight was uneventful, at the current moment his company is sweeping over the other camps if they capture the blood angels he has ordered they can do what they like with them. After a few minutes the thunderhawk gently set down, Taurus rose from his seat. “Come, let us see what the camp has in store for us.” The landing bay doors opened and everyone followed him out of the thunderhawk. What greeted him upon stepping out is a charnel house, bodies torn apart, throats torn out and 4 dead astartes. In the middle of all of this was a blood angel. Trying to drain the blood from a clearly dead siren. Everyone raised their weapons, but he gestured for them to stand down. “I am going to approach the blood angel.” said Taurus. Tetricus walked up to him clearly concerned. “Are you mad!? We must kill it! It might tear you to shreds!?” He gave his brother a reassuring nod. “And he might not, the siren came here for a reason I think can see the reason why.” Again his brother did his standard heavy sigh. “If it so much a-” “I know.” he walked towards the blood angel.

As he got close he looked down at him. “Who are you?” Taurus asked. The blood angel’s face rose from the throat of the siren. Shaking his head. “W-where am I? Am I on Terra?” “No...you are not.” His face slowly looked up to his. Taurus could see he looked rather young, his blonde hair is matted with gore and his face is covered in dry blood. As he spoke Taurus clearly saw his fangs. “I...need….” He knelt. “What do you need?” “B-blood...I...n-need it.” Taurus nodded in understanding he began working on removing his gauntlet. He then heard several footsteps behind him, he raised his hand. “Halt, all of you. It’s fine.” All of them did as he ordered, he could tell the footsteps stopped. He continued removing his gauntlet and soon as he removed it. The blood angel launched himself at his wrist and bit deeply. Taurus could not help but grin. “How interesting.” he drank for about a minute until Taurus decided to wrench his head back. The blood angel pleaded “W-wait! I-I…” “No more, you will get no more blood unless you serve my company.” The blood slowly nodded. “I-I...I will serve.” “Good, now tell me where are you?” “I am...on Malisdar.” “What happened to the blood angels in this camp?” He shook his head slightly “I….killed them. I-I didn’t mean to I-I-I...!” “You killed them...did you enjoy it?” His eyes diverted downwards slightly, he could see the clear shame in his grey eyes. “I-I did not know what I was doing...but their blood...it tasted….” “Good?” “Yes….” “Right, you will devour and kill for me. You will trample my enemies into the dust for me. Do we understand each other?” “Y-yes…” Taurus let go his head and he went straight back to his wrist. This time Taurus heard a single set of footsteps behind him, he looked up. “We are taking him Tetricus.” “Are you sure you want to let this….creature on the ship?” “Why not? He does no worse than what our brothers get up to in their free time. But I do say I am quite curious about how the blood angels tick.” He smirked “Silentus!” His apothecary walked over. “What is it?” he signed. “I want you to do a medical examination on our...new brother. I want to know everything about him.” “I...see.” He noted that there was a brief pause between each hand gesture. “Also Tetricus send the word we are leaving. We are done with this world.” His company sorcerer gave a small bow. He then turned his head back slightly “Inferus why are you standing over there?” The company chef shook his head. “I just have bad feeling about that one. I will stand here.” Taurus faced the ex-blood angel. He wondered what exactly Inferus is worried about? What he sees is a wonderful weapon, a treasure that will grant him more victories.

Day 1

So begins the medical examination, soon as we left Malisdar I got straight to work. The blood angel had to be put to sleep through Tetricus’ sorcery because moving him is too dangerous, soon as Taurus wrenched him back he desired to devour all of us. Now that he is within the examination room, I had his armour stripped away. I also had several of my brothers hold him in sitting position while I chain his hands and legs to the ground. Soon as he awakened he started snapping at me with his teeth desiring to drink my blood. My first hypothesis is that possibly the blood drinking might be a trait of his chapter, a defect that the blood angels keep hidden.

But going by reports and past conflicts none are this violent. Blood angels are known for their graceful savagery but this is different. To be honest with myself I only became a apothecary due to a necessity, I even put off healing my voice since I feel the dark prince willed me to lose it but now having this...specimen in front of me? I am quite excited to do this examination.

Day 4

Now that basic checks are done I decided to test his need for blood. I left him without blood for several hours and what occurred is fascinating. He begins shouting that he is Sanguinius and that he must defend terra from the traitor horde. After allowing him to tear apart a slave and I should add he joyfully devoured their blood he returned to lucidity. I then decided to repeat to test several times to at least confirm his need for blood. After each trial he would scream that his back hurts, I walk around him and I see nothing. I deduced this might be a remnant of his visions but more testing shall be required.

Day 5

Something amazing has occured I walked into the lab to see that the specimen has grown large black wings. It’s clear in my eyes that he is blessed by the dark prince, I can see it. Even his features are changing slightly into the picture of beauty. This time I want to change the tests, first I fed him enough so he could speak clearly. (I also have servitors and members of the company on stand by just in case) Now that he could speak I asked him questions. First his name which is Lucretius, I then asked him through a servitor did he feel regret for devouring people. He told me no flatly. He even pushed the point that drinking blood is euphoric and that “she” wants him to revel in it. That people exist to slake his thirst including me. After gathering this information I concluded that he is truly one in the faith of the dark prince.

Day 8

Today I entered the lab to see Lucretius has broke his chains and devoured the astartes that were guarding him. His whole body was covered in blood, he grinned telling me that he couldn’t help it. He then sat and allowed himself to be chained down again. (This time I will ensure heavy weaponry is trained on him 24/7 via servitors.) But what was interesting is that examining his physiology he is stronger than a regular astartes. I wonder if it’s a blessing or part of the affliction of his chapter? Anyway I now noticed that his eyes are pink and staring at them I can feel a strange pressure on my mind. I believe he is trying to influence me somehow. I have decided to cut down his blood intake, perhaps that might make him more controllable.

Day 10

I noticed that Lucretius is now weaker, but he is well enough to speak. He desires to engage in idle discussion. He tells me and he wants to devour me, Tetricus, Asriel and Taurus. That out of everyone he encountered we smell the “best”. I asked him why and he described that all four of us smell like aged wine and succulent meat. I then noted down that he can possibly detect blood quality through smell. At the same time I desire to see what happens to those he feeds upon.

Day 12

I tell Lucretius that those he feeds upon he has to let live. He agreed quite readily to my suprise. So I gave him the first slave, he fed and let him go. The slave was delirious due to blood loss but he will survive. He then asked me that he wants to see Taurus. I refused, but then he began almost begging so I relented, when my captain arrived Lucretius almost launched himself at Taurus he strained at the chains and snapped as his fangs at my captain. Of course he found it incredibly amusing, but I had to point out that it’s clear that Lucretius is an astartes but now is a dangerous predator. Taurus then asked me whether it would be alright to release him. I told him no since I desire to do more tests, my subject then relaxed, disappointment lining his face.


Day 13

Today I found the slave that Lucreitus fed upon was now banging at the lab door. He was clawing and raging to get inside to see his lord. I found this outburst surprising since the slave barely knew the subject and I denied his request. What I did do is do an examination and along with all the other substances slaves use in order to feel sensation. I found an unknown substance in his bloodstream. After a more thorough examination of the subjects blood and body I have found that his brain signals have been altered. Also the chemicals that invoke the emotion of desire, love, adoration and loyalty has spiked dramatically. Then I came to only one conclusion, Lucretius must inject or secret this substance while he is feeding. So then I decided to bring the slave to the subject and soon as he entered the room he rushed towards Lucretius, tears of joy trailing down his face. Of course he was devoured but...the slave seemed to enjoy it. I will make sure to file this report to Taurus.


Day 14

Taurus decided to involve himself in testing, this time we have several astartes present for this test including Tetricus. I removed Taurus’ gauntlet displaying his wrist like before, soon as Lucretius saw it his face lit up like the sun itself. He rose breaking his bonds and knelt, stating that Taurus honours him. All of this Taurus found amusing and Tetricus looked to be clearly worried. So the test commenced, the subject drank from Taurus’ wrist we all waited until Taurus pushed Lucretius back. He wiped his mouth and sat. Everyone in the room stood at the ready, My captain then shrugged after several minutes. I concluded that possibly his toxin does not work on certain individuals for some reason. I will do a test from a different angle after I chain the subject down again.

Day 19

So I repeated the slave test and instead of allowing them to return to the subject I held them in another room. They were absolutely desperate to get to him, but after a few days or so they calmed down. It seems the substance’s hold can degrade over time. After this test Taurus was satisfied that he can walk among us. The ex-blood angel swore that he would serve Taurus in all things, that he is his guiding sun and light. Also that he would obey orders. (I also wonder what inspired this loyalty) Captain then freed Lucretius, he flexed his body and gave me an odd look, I did not like it one bit. Despite this he did nothing, he asked for his armour but captain is having it retrofitted to accommodate his wings. He then...to my apprehension welcomed Lucretius to the company.


Asriel frowned heavily, the first day that Lucretius is now officially part of the company and the dreaded moment that he has to deliver food to him. He stood in front of his door with the cart and knocked. The door slid open to reveal the ex-blood angel. His lower body was covered in his reworked power armour but his chest was bare. Asriel could also notice that he is covered in blood. “I am here to deliver your meal my lord.” He smiled at him. “Please come in.” “I am quite alright…” he picked up his plate. “I...insist. Or should I tell Taurus that you are not being courteous Asriel?” He sighed inwardly, he dislike him calling him by his name. Captain made sure to introduce Lucretius to everyone the day before. He picked up the plate “very well my lord.” The ex-blood angel’s smile widened as he walked back into his room, Asriel followed him in. Soon as he stepped inside he smelt strong incense mixed in with the smell of blood. To Asriel’s surprise it smelled nice, but the ex-blood angel saw this. “The incense was created from the serrated tongues of the people I fed upon.” The piece of news caused him to want to leave even quicker.

But he also noted that the room is quite neat save for the patches of blood on the floor. Lucretius then sat in his chair in front of two kneeling people, a man and a woman. He then picked up the wine glass of red liquid from the side table next to him and sipped it. Asriel held his breath slightly and walked over, he placed the plate on the table.

The ex-blood angel removed the cover and soon as he looked at the food he curled his lips slightly in disgust. But he sniffed it, Asriel could not help but notice his face moved back just a fraction after smelling his food. He then picked up the fork and stabbed the piece of meat. He bought it to his lips slowly and bit a piece off. He shook his head and spat the piece on the floor. “It’s disgusting.” “I...see. What do you prefer my lord?” Lucretius frowned. “It’s fine I will give it to my slaves. You may leave.” Asriel turned away he tried not to sigh in relief but as soon as he got to the door he felt someone’s presence at his back. He looked up slightly to see Lucretius is now looming over him. “On second thought...stay a moment.” “I-Is something wrong my lord?” Asriel tried to put on a brave front, it’s rare whenever he feels fear but that emotion is creeping all over his body. The ex-blood angel leaned in and sniffed his hair. He then licked his lips. “You smell quite wonderful…” Asriel did not want to be in the room anymore, he reached for the button to open the door. But before he could move his arm, the astartes snatched it, he could barely see the motion and then he felt a sharp pain.

Lucretius is now biting into his arm deeply. In reaction he panicked and pushed the ex-blood angel back with telekinesis sending him flying across the room. The slaves rose and began panicking while shouting “master! Master!” He did not waste any time and quickly left the room. He looked back as the door was slowly closing, he could see Lucretius rising shouting. “I want your blood!” he charged towards the door, Asriel ran for his life.

As he ran down the hallway he could hear the beating of wings from behind him and his laughter. He grit is teeth and through biomancy strengthened his body to increase his run speed. His mind raced wondering where he should go? Who should he go to? He then nodded. “Tetricus’ place is closer!” he summoned more power to strengthen his body. He raced down the hallways to the tunnel entrance as he got to the door he looked back, the beating of wings was extremely close. He entered the tunnel and continued running, he reached the door to Tetricus’ room and rushed inside. He saw the sorceror drinking his recaf, he raised his eyebrow. “Is something wrong Asriel?” As he spoke he quickly turned to the door and sealed it. As the locks engaged large dents began surfacing.

Asriel walked back slightly. “H-he wants to eat me.” The sorcerer rose from the table and walked over to him. He placed his hand on his shoulder. “I knew that he would not be able to control himself.” He faced the door and with a gesture he unlocked it. The ex-blood angel flew into the room. Black feathers bellowed about the room, he laughed. “There is nowhere to run!” Tetricus looked upon Lucretius frowning. “I quite value this apprentice blood angel. So please...come down so we can talk.” He gestured with two fingers downward, Lucretius shot to the ground like a comet, unable to move. He raged on the ground and roared at the both of them.“I-I...just wanted a little bit!” “No blood angel, you may drink from the slaves but no one else. Or should I report your behavior to Taurus?” At the mention of his name Asriel watched Lucretius freeze. “D-Don’t….” “You know what? I will.” The ex-blood angel began squirming on the floor, panic now lining his face.

Tetricus removed his hand from his shoulder and pulled out a dataslate began typing on it but after a few minutes he furrowed his brow. “You...may want to read this.” He handed his dataslate to him. Asriel looked at it and shook his head.

Tetricus: I just want to let you know that Lucretius chased Asriel into my room with the desire to eat him.

Taurus: I see.

Tetricus: That’s it? He tried to eat him!

Taurus: I guess he would try, it’s around the time Inferus should be delivering lunch. As veterans of this company we should do the best we can to accommodate new and important members of the company.


Asriel frowned he began typing.

Tetricus: It’s me Asriel, he tried to eat me while I delivered his food. He didn’t like it.

Taurus: That is interesting...I suspect he can’t eat normal food. But since it’s an eating period you must serve all my brothers food. Figure something out.


Asriel groaned in annoyance he handed the dataslate back to Tetricus. “What did he say?” He shook his head. “I...will figure something out.” He stared at the ex-blood angel in annoyance, his job has become far harder.

Silentus looked over his notes on Lucretius, he was not exactly sure whether it was a good idea to let such a creature loose but it was his captain’s will. In the end who is he to deny someone who is clearly blessed by the dark prince? He sighed slightly. I feel the hunger. Ever since Taurus has let the dark prince into his soul sensation has began to bled away from his body. He eyed his tactical feed and blinked, the narcotic was injected into his body through his stim system. He found his breathing slowly slightly, his body relaxed and sensation returned. Silentus then continued his work, he knows it’s a matter of time before the drug will no longer work but then he will move to the next thing. Even if he begins to brutalize slaves, the dark prince demands his followers to pursue excess and sensation and now that he no longer needs to worry for Taurus he is free to do that. But a knock greeted his room door distracting him from his notes. He closed the medical examination book and placed it on the shelf. He approached the door and opened it to see that it was Taurus. “Is something wrong?” he signed, his captain almost pushed past him to enter his room.

He watched him walk to the middle of the room, he turned and faced him. “I want you to examine something Silentus.” He walked towards Taurus. “What do you want me to see?” His captain nodded and began removing his gauntlet, he then showed him the back of his hand displaying the brand of the dark prince. The colour kept shifting from blue to purple and pink in repetition, at times the colours would come together and mix displaying waves of various colours. Taurus then placed his gauntlet back on, he watched him do the process, turning what he just saw in his mind and after he finished fixing the gauntlet to his arm Silentus smiled. “This is good.” “Depends on one’s perspective, it appeared on the back of my hand today. Yet…” “Yet what?” “I don’t feel any different.” Silentus raised his eyebrow. “What were you expecting?” “I was expecting the need to torture slaves for pleasure, I was expecting to wrack my brain at getting my next fix. I expected to mutilate myself in order to reach higher heights of pleasure...Yet….I feel nothing.” As Taurus spoke he had to admit it was surprising. So he asked him. “Do you feel pleasure in anything you do?” He shook his head “When we killed the enemy on Malisdar, now reflecting upon it I just see them as stepping stones. I felt nothing at all.” “What of the Drukhari? You must of enjoyed watching them suffer.” “I felt satisfaction not joy. It’s like finishing an important task, nothing more than that.” Silentus nodded as he absorbed the information, he has been marked that is clear enough and according to the texts he should be acting a specific way.

So instead he stared at him and searched what he personally felt when looking at his captain. He see could his armour has now been changed, he now wears the blessed star of chaos on his armour. In the past he felt weariness and a strange drive to ensure that his faith in the dark prince awakens. A sense of adrenaline gripped him as he pursued that goal, but now? Taurus looks far more confident, strong and unbowed. He feels a strange mix of adoration and respect that has not touched his hearts in centuries but it’s clear despite these feelings that Taurus hasn’t really changed.

So he asked “How do you feel after your victories?” As he asked the question Taurus’ blue eyes lit up slightly. “I...only feel joy in victory.” Taurus stroked his chin for a moment and began thinking, he then lowered his hand and nodded. “There is only pleasure and joy in victory. I desire it, crave it like meat. I want this company to be the best.” His eyes began glowing further, his gaze turned fierce. “We cannot, we shall not consider losing. Silentus when the blood angels died, as they screamed their last words...I saw it. Perfection. Victory is perfection, driving your foe before you brings you closer to perfection. With more victories our primarch will see his error and in victory our “brothers” will hang their heads in shame looking upon us with envy….” Listening to him speak, for some reason he believed every word. He wanted it as well, he could sense that his captain’s desire is pure or even...just. He did not even feel the pangs of hunger as he spoke he felt like he was being drawn in. “My brother we are righteous because we are the victors. The people of Malisdar saw it and so many others. Forget honour, forget reason...” his mouth froze in the middle of a word. He closed it. “Tell me...are those who split away still alive?” Silentus furrowed his brow. “I shall check” he signed. He walked over to the bookshelf and removed the log book of the company. He opened it and looked it over, he noted that out of the group who split off to seek pleasure five are left, the rest died in the conflict. “Captain there are five astartes left out of that group.” “Give me their names.” Silentus picked out his dataslate and sent the names to Taurus. “What are you going to do?” he asked. His captain began walking to the door, he turned his head back slightly. “This company has no place for those who do not desire victory. As I said to Dominic they are worse than human. The ones who allowed themselves to be vessels for daemons are far more worthy than them to be part of the 4th. They are no longer my brothers. They did not desire victory so they are in the wrong. They are now my enemy.” He then left as the door closed he stared at it for a moment.

The adoration and respect he felt before just kept increasing and increasing. He did not understand why. In the past he would be angry at the fact he is most likely going to murder members of the company. But mixed in that adoration and respect he can’t help but feel annoyance at those who wanted to get in the way of Taurus’ pure desire. Silentus smiled he has changed. He told himself.

This message was edited 4 times. Last update was at 2018/06/23 01:59:49


 
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Building upon our captain's corruption. When I was first planning it I used this image as an inspiration. As I said before we don't really see this sort of thing in 40k literature at most it's the normal torture, finding pleasure in pain etc.

Spoiler:


So what I researched is the desire for respect, adoration, wanting to be envied by others. etc Tome of excess goes into this and I said before in the thread the further you go in the rings of slaanesh's palace the excesses turn more "sophisticated." Anyway hope people are enjoying the chapters so far.

This message was edited 1 time. Last update was at 2018/06/21 23:25:23


 
   
Made in us
Regular Dakkanaut






Man I went to one festival and when I get back you've churned out several chapters, hell yea! Awesome read and digging the blood angel. Quick question, I thought asriel could handle astartes himself, what makes lucetious so much stronger? I could see a vs match coming soon between him and our new night lord of slaanesh in the future haha

   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





 Dayknight wrote:

Man I went to one festival and when I get back you've churned out several chapters, hell yea! Awesome read and digging the blood angel. Quick question, I thought asriel could handle astartes himself, what makes lucetious so much stronger? I could see a vs match coming soon between him and our new night lord of slaanesh in the future haha



Well...it has something to do with the black rage. It's not actually gone in a sense. I will get into that. Glad you enjoying the chapters and the vs match? Hmm.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 19
Asriel frowned as his blood was drained into a metal mug. He would be dizzy drawing this much blood but his skill in biomancy prevents that from happening. He just hopes when he delivers Lucretius’ meal he would not try and devour him again. Yet what he did find odd when Tetricus released him he slunk away like a beaten animal, what’s clear enough is that he respects Taurus, but it happened in such a short time frame he can’t help but feel his loyalty might be suspect. In the end there is nothing he could do, Taurus trusts that he will be of use to the warband and he has no say in the matter. He then eyed the metal mug “that should be enough…” he removed the medical drain and sealed the metal mug.

He rubbed his arm slightly, the bruising sensation that he felt underneath his skin vanished in a moment. He left the kitchen and made his way back to Lucretius room, now standing in front of the door he knocked. Again the door opened but this time he is wearing his new armour, he could tell it’s no longer “power armour” but his breastplate and gauntlets seem to be made from thin layers of ceramite that allows him some measure of flexibility and protection. The ex-blood angel smiled “you have returned.” “Well yes I have to take my job seriously.” He nodded at his answer and gestured into his room. “Why you like to come in?” “No.” Asriel quickly responded. His answer caused him to frown. “But I insist, Our dear captain wishes me to aplogise for trying to devour your…” he sniffed “delicious blood.” Asriel sighed heavily he guessed that Taurus would make him aplogise, he did the same with Gavisus. He slowly walked inside the room it was the same from before save that the slaves were missing. “Where the slaves?” Lucretius walked over to his chair and sat. “Dead, I was in a bad mood after the encounter with the witch so I drained them dry. But don’t worry they thanked me as I did it.” “I...see.” Asriel stared at him. A question began forming in his mind. “What...exactly are you?” Lucretius shrugged “I don’t know.” “How can that be?” “Well...chaos is new to me. I don’t know how the dark prince changed me...but I am sure I am still suffering from the black rage.” “Black rage?” “It’s...an affliction of my chapter, one we aim to keep secret. But I doubt they would care if I speak to you of it since I am now a traitor.” The ex-blood angel relaxed in his chair. “We don’t know what exactly causes it but each blood angel can fall into a state where they believe they are sanguinius. With that though comes strength, the ferocity and power of the death company causes many to shudder in fear. Those who succumb to the black rage are placed into the company and hopefully they die in battle than to continue being a blood crazed animal.” As he explained, Asriel nodded in understanding. “I see, so I guess you feed on blood to stave off the black rage?”

Lucretius smiled “yes, I feed and I remain in reality and at the same time it’s a far more enjoyable experience compared to feeding the past.” He clenched his hand several times. “I always thought traitors were fools for denying the emperor...but drinking the captain’s blood I saw his splendor and the shining visage of the dark prince.” Asriel could see his eyes are glowing slightly, he truly believes what he is saying. “My...brothers are fools. In chaos there is a cure for our affliction.” “So do you believe yourself to be cured?” “Of course, we always drank blood to control the red thirst but if it could stave off the rage? If all of my brothers had such a blessing? They would rejoice. Yet they are blind and forever will be. They hold themselves to be majestic...honourable...but we are anything but that. We murder to hide our shame and we feast on blood behind closed doors.” Lucretius chuckled “for once I feel all my burdens have been lifted.” Asriel stared at the astartes, hearing him talk he knew that perhaps he judged him too soon. He offered the metal mug. “Your meal my lord.” the ex-blood angel sniffed it and snatched it from his hand. He looked it and smiled while showing his fangs. “Thank you, by the way Taurus desires to see you.” “What about?” “Your new role, now leave I wish...to savour this.” He frowned as he spoke, he wondered what Taurus could want and he dreaded to think of what extra work he has in mind for his new “role.” He turned and left Lucretius room and this time there was no looming presence behind him.
His room door slid close behind him and then he made his way to Taurus’ chambers. As he arrived he knocked and entered. Stepping into the room the smell of blood tickled his nose, his eyes were brought to the middle of the room to see five heads lining the table. He could see his captain sitting in front of them grumbling slightly, also to his right stood Silentus and to his left stood Tetricus.

Asriel approached “Lucretius said you wanted to see me.” his voice caused Taurus to look up to him he nodded and got up from the table. “Do you recognise these heads Asriel?” Soon as he heard his name, he seized up slightly. The fact he is using his name must mean whatever he wants to talk about is serious. His captain walked over to him and stood at his side gazing at the heads lining the table. “What is victory to you?” Taurus asked. The question took him off guard slightly, he frowned. “I...never thought about it.” “Exactly very few in the third legion think about victory anymore. Many desire to gratify their base urges, forgetting the path to perfection.” Taurus then began walking around him, Asriel then felt a strange pressure on his body that he has done something clearly wrong. “Captain...if I have done any-” “Let me speak.” At his order he closed his mouth. “I spoke to your old master in the past and he told me that you will ruin us. That you will make me rely on you and that will lead us to destruction.” Hearing him speak of Adelram, the pressure he felt increased, his heart began twisting. “So I wonder when this will happen…” his captain then stood in front him. “Are you a creature of base urges? Or a member of the 4th that seeks perfection?” Asriel clutched his chest. He wondered why is he doing this now? What reason does he have to twist the blade in his chest? After all they have done and been through? He knew this to be wrong. It is wrong. “I...have-” Asriel felt a cold touch on his neck, his eyes diverted to a blade that was now pressing at his neck. “Asriel choose your words carefully. What you will say next will determine if you are my enemy or my ally in perfection. Did you lead your warband to destruction? Are you a creature of ruination? Are you just another base follower of Slaanesh?” Taurus’ voice was cold, his questions hammered into him. With each blow the knife dug in deeper and deeper, a strange pain began gripping his body and mind. There was no pleasure in it, just cold agony. He screwed his eyes shut trying to push back the tears building in his eyes. His mind plunged into the past, looking at his many mistakes “It’s….my fault.” said Asriel.

The tears began falling down his face. “I did not care for perfection, I did not care for what anyone wanted….I just wanted. I...I...wanted a family. I craved it, I did anything for it. I killed, insulted, I tortured maimed I did depravities to anything or anyone to get what I wanted and...I never got it. It’s….not fair.” He narrowed his eyes at Taurus “It’s not fair! Why am I here!? I did everything you asked! What are you accusing me of!?” The captain of the 4th said nothing. The blade began biting into his neck. “I have never tasted victory in my long life! My life has been utter misery! Tell me!? What do you want!? Yes….I did so many things wrong! But...what can I do!? No matter how hard I tried it never works out!” The blade bit in deeper, he can feel the blood trickling down his body. The tears were unrelenting “I made so many mistakes...so many...enemies I thought I had something here...but I guess I was wrong. Whatever I did to displease you captain I am….I am...sorry.” The cold mono-steel blade left his neck, his captain sheathed his blade slowly. “The first step in perfection...admitting one’s faults and mistakes.” Asriel blinked in confusion. “W-what?” he sniffed, “I-I don’t understand.” Taurus chuckled “I desire victory Asriel, I desire perfection and perfection is victory. I have seen all the astartes of the company and the humans who have an inkling of understanding. I want to see who truly aligns with what I desire. Fortunately very few failed, but I was worried about you, worried that your past still controls you. The fact that you wish to improve is good.” Asriel’s arms turned slack “T-This was a test?” “Yes a test, come with me.” They walked a few paces to the table. “Look at the heads Asriel, these five did not desire victory or to improve. They desired to fall into the excess of the flesh.” He looked at each head, all of them held faces of utter terror. Oddly he found his hands reaching out, he picked up a head and examined the cut. It was clean extremely so, far more clean than the heads in the freezer. He looked up to Taurus. “What did you do?” “I showed them how weak they are. None could parry my attacks, none could break my guard. I let them know how pitiful and weak they are. Then...I killed them.” “I see…so what now?” “Now you specialise. When you told me you kept changing yourself to suit others I had an inkling of the reason why. Your confession here confirmed it.” “You remember that conversation?” “Of course, that whole event defined me, when I slaughtered my company. A mistake that will mark me forever.” Asriel placed the head back on the table. “Right, what do you want me to do?”

Taurus then gestured one hand to Silentus and the other to Tetricus. “You will no longer use the sniper rifle.” “May I ask why?” His captain nodded. “Your initial training was to teach you focus and discipline. I imagine your old master had no need for such things, but I desire victory. Everyone will have time for their own personal pleasures, but war must become our artform, those we kill are a canvas and we are the painters. To create the picture of victory you need various tools and supplies and if they are not in perfect condition they will effect the end result.” He nodded in understanding, his tears dried and the pain in his heart was strangely being replaced by excitement. For some reason he could see his vision, he imagined this warband standing above the others. Standing above Adelram. “I understand so what do you desire of me?” “You will choose to train with either Silentus or Tetricus, next to your cooking duties one of my brothers will be your teacher from now on. Also you will aid said brother in their normal duties.” He processed that information, he looked at Silentus who stood like a stone, Tetricus was fidgeting slightly. “Now Asriel. With Silentus you will train in the blade, so your psychic training will fall to the wayside at most you will retain your mastery in biomancy but your utter focus will be in perfecting your blade skill. Or you can choose my brother Tetricus.” At the mention of the sorcerer's name, Asriel could not help but notice he was trying to stand slightly taller than the apothecary, he was trying hard not to move. “With Tetricus you will plunge into the arts of sorcery, your focus will be utterly on that. These are your two roads, choose wisely because there will be no other, this is your starting path on perfection.”

Asriel looked at his two options, he stared at Silentus, he thought about becoming better in the art of the blade and it’s a rare opportunity to have have a dedicated astartes master. Yet, he is still human he would never reach his skill or strength by the clear fact that he is an astartes. So he bought his eye to the sorcerer. As he looked at him Tetricus began fidgeting slightly again. He took a deep breath. “Captain, I shall choose Tetricus.” Taurus nodded he looked over to the sorcerer. “You can stop fidgeting brother he picked you or are you that excited?” Tetricus shook his head. “N-no, I am not excited at all.” He looked over to Silentus. “Sorry brother, he chose me.” The apothecary shrugged, he signed. “May I go now?” “Yes, you may.” said Taurus. Silentus then left the room. His new and permanent teacher clearly couldn’t contain his excitement. “I recall when you hated me.” said Asriel.

Tetricus coughed slightly “There is a joy in teaching one’s lessers….” “I see.” it’s clear to him that Tetricus is not being honest, but he could not help but admit he was somewhat excited as well. Taurus then placed his hand on his shoulder “Train hard I am going to contact a certain “lord commander” for tasks.” “Why? I thought you hate him?” “Of course I do and I know he is going to set a task that is aimed to kill us.” At the mention of Eidolon wanting to kill them he wondered why his captain would accept such a mission. Taurus chuckled, how he laughed he guessed that he knew what he was thinking. “I shall be plain.” “Please do I am actually quite curious why you are going to accept suicide missions.” His captain removed his hand from his shoulder. He had a feeling his was grinning under his helmet. “It’s quite simple Inferus we are going to complete those missions in such a spectacular fashion that Eidolon and those that follow him will look upon us with hatred and envy.” As he explained his reasoning Asriel smiled “Sounds fun.” “Exactly, there is only joy and pleasure in victory.” He nodded “I will aim to deliver that to you captain.” as he finished speaking, Taurus returned his nod, Asriel walked over to Tetricus. “I am eager to learn more...master.” Tetricus was almost shaking with joy due to his words. “Good, you are eager. I think the other students will like you.” “Other students?” “Yes, well they are more your rivals but I know you will do well. Don’t worry you won’t see them for awhile.” at the mention of rivals it did not bother him, because having rivals ensures that you train hard to overcome them. “Do not worry I will overcome them, as I said I am eager to start.” The sorcerer nodded “we are leaving Taurus.” His captain said nothing he wanted to see results he could tell, so Asriel followed Tetricus out of the chambers, to begin his new training regimen.

She stood in the empty city and only echoes of what has happened clinged to the walls of the city of Malisdar. Pictures of the events flashed across her eyes, the people of the city falling into hated heresy, the destruction of the blackfang company of the Shadow hunters chapter. And finally the death of the blood angels company. With each image she saw comes a feminine laughter, that sensational laugh holds darkness a darkness that has claimed many. A darkness that the puritan order she is a part of the fires of Illumination seek to stamp out. She replayed the images again the people’s depravity against the xeno’s but then a distraction came. “Inquisitor Avala it’s been done.” She opened her eyes and faced one of her acolytes, a devoted follower of the emperor and an ex-member of a underhive gang. “Lucas, you know not to distract me.” she said firmly. Avala gripped her staff in annoyance. He looked away and rubbed his neck “I was just letting you know the clean up is done. We are ready to ship the bodies off to their chapters. John and the creepy assassin sent me to let you know.” Her annoyance evaporated so it’s not Lucas’ fault. “Both of them should know better.” “I know but they wanted me to get in trouble, so here I am. Who am I to deny a crusader of the emperor and a death cult assassin? I am just a lowly gangster.” As he spoke his last sentence she detected the sarcasm. “We are all servants of the god-emperor. I choose my acolytes based on those who can resist the call of the serpent and you have already proved yourself.” “Well I did help you put my gang to the torch, those bastards were fools for going for those drugs. I tried to tell em.” “Indeed and you chose wisely to serve me for if you did anything else you would of joined the pyre.” Whenever she mentions the burnings a bead of sweat falls down his coppery skin. He placed his hands into his leather jacket “well as I said all the nailed bodies have been placed on the gunships. Man I never knew…” “That heretics can be so depraved? On your world what you saw was a surface glimpse, the enemy we fight does not care for social rank. It worms its way into the hearts of anyone, praying on your desires but the one who committed this atrocity here…” She looked around the empty streets. “He managed to drag the whole population into heresy, normally there are remnants, gibbering fools battered by mutilation and other depravities. I was hoping something remained so I could extract information.” Lucas crossed his arms “the people nailed to the walls don’t count? They are not remnants?”

Avala shook her head “all of them were military Lucas, what we found was monument of heresy and darkness. Every single man and woman in this city willingly jumped into heresy. The heretic astartes that came to this planet approached the populace as “saviors” I saw flashes of the leader. To the untrained eye he would look radiant, unbowed and could easily pass as one of the emperor’s angels. Yet underneath that exterior holds a great shroud of darkness and depravity. What he will do is make the people bend to his every word and at the same time draw them into commiting depravities against the “enemies” of mankind.” Lucas shook his head “I take it that this...serpent is quite insidious.” She nodded “yes it can make you think that you are doing something harmless, a small indulgence here or there. Soon enough it has you wrapped around it’s finger.” “Like the drugs my old gang used. I heard them describing the thrill and energy it provided them. At the same time it gave them the strength to take control and “protect” the people of the underhive.” Lucas spat on the ground. “At most they just spread the narcotics around telling people it brings them closer to the emperor.” “So you understand.” She smiled slowly at his hatred, in hating the enemy it keeps the accursed god from touching your heart.

She turned and faced the city once more, her open robes swishing at the movement. She moved her fingers, the servo’s of her power armour purring at the movement. “Ready yourself Lucas.” “For what?” “To see the face of our enemy, or at least the envoy of it.” In quick motion he made the sign of the aquila. Avala gathered the echoes and brought them together, small white sprites left the walls and blood stains to create a large mirror. She then saw the heretic astartes standing over the crowd with his followers on a stage. His armour was pristine, the colour was a mix of black, pink and purple and jewels were embedded in various sections. She also noted that he wore a dark halo, most likely kissed by the ruinous power he served. But what filled her with hatred was seeing the crowd of beaten people. Reports detailed that this planet was under attack by dark eldar, the heretics used the people’s despair to their advantage. The people gave into weakness, they took the easy way out. She looked back to see Lucas’ eyes dilating while he looked upon the traitor. “Focus!” she barked. Her acolyte shook his head. “W-what happened?” “Focus Lucas. Repeat the prayers that I taught you. The litanies of hatred, the words of anger at the heretic.” He nodded, she watched him begin murmuring, the dilation slowly began drifting away. She faced the mirror, she could see that the heretic began talking, he then began throwing dark eldar raiders into the crowd.

In a mad frenzy the crowd tore the xeno’s apart, all manner of depravities were thrown upon the foul xenos. What she found abhorrent was what the crowd was commiting upon them, but she always knew that the followers of the serpent have a strange fascination with that particular xeno species. She looked back to see Lucas’ was now turned covering his ears. He was squatting. “I can hear him! I...I…can hear...” she looked over the mirror she conjured she ensured that no sounds would play. Even sound could be a tool of corruption, she dismissed the mirror and walked over to Lucas who was slowly removing his hands from his ears. He rose slowly and faced her. “W-what was that?” “What did you hear Lucas?” he was sweating heavily, he is not used to fighting the heretic. “I heard his speech, his cries to denounce the master of mankind, I kept repeating the things you taught me but his voice was becoming louder and louder. Then after that...the cries of pleasure from the crowd...the screams of xeno’s...I felt my-my…” “Your mind splintering? A soft voice now whispering in your ear telling you to give in? To commit to holy darkness? That’s how the dark powers worm their way into your mind. Especially the one we face. It brings insanity, corruption and decadence.” “T-that’s what my gang was getting into?” Avala grimly nodded “yes, they bent their knee and sold their souls to the dark prince of chaos. Also known as Slaanesh. They abandoned the emperor’s light to be forever tormented in the warp.” At the mention of it’s name Lucas jumped slightly, she also could hear a soft whisper that was on the edge of silence trickling past her ear. She pushed it away. “Anyway we are done, I have a clear picture of the enemy. Come Lucas.” she walked past him, but he stood in place. “Follow me.” she ordered. Finally he turned and began walking. “Lucas as we make our way back to the gunships repeat the prayers of purification in your the mind.” “Y-Yes inquisitor.” She could hear murmurs behind her, but to her surprise he handled it well many fall into heresy on their first contact. It is good that she does not have to purify a useful asset.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 20
Asriel walked down the tunnel with Tetricus, the fact that all his training sessions will now be with him was oddly pleasing for some reason. He guessed that he always viewed his psychic powers and minor sorcery he employs to be simple utility. But now he has a proper teacher and an old one at that. His new master gave him a strange look. “What are you thinking about?” “I am just excited.” “Oh? You are aware the training will be grueling right?” “And painful?” “Indeed.” “Well pain is another joy to be experienced.” “True, but I assure you that you won’t enjoy it.” Asriel smiled he could see Tetricus is actually excited, he knew he would never say it out loud. But he wanted this badly. “Tell me why do you desire to train me?” The sorcerer stopped, so did he. “Because we are the other.” “Other?” “We aren’t the same as the rest of them. We are witches. Tell me how did you awaken your powers?” “Well...I was possessed one time. I think that has something to do with it.” His master raised his eyebrow, he could see on his face that he is wondering if he is telling the truth. “Anyway that’s a long story. But no one has treated me any different.” “Yes because they fear you.” “Fear me?” “Yes, they fear us because the power we wield, some of my brothers still make comments behind my back and I imagine they do the same for you now that you have entered Taurus’ confidence.” Tetricus began to walk, He did the same for a time there was silence. He thought about what he just said and Asriel realised that it’s likely that Tetricus is lonely in a sense. He can’t share the joy of his powers with anyone, until he and his other rivals came along. “My lord I am sure there are many psykers on the ship, why haven’t you trained all of them?” “Because very few have talent or drive Asriel. Most humans are dirt, worse than that. They exist to make us feel or to die for us in battle. Very few are gems and I dislike wasting my time.” “I understand my lord.” Silence reigned again, but this time Tetricus spoke. “Tell me what do you think of Lucretius?” “Well he wants to eat me.” “I know, but Taurus forgot to tell you that he is in charge of the cult.” “What!? Why!?” “He is a symbol, even if I detest the creature he is essentially an angel of the dark prince. That is powerful.” “I think I understand at the same time it seems...he can gain information from those he drinks from.” “Oh? Please do tell.” “Well it has to do with Taurus, he told me after drinking his blood he saw his splendor and the shining visage of the dark prince. So out of the astartes he can relate to humans better.” “You mean he can manipulate them better.” Tetricus said cooly. “True but he is infatuated with Taurus. I think he will spread the word of his glory and the dark prince to anyone who will hear.” His master snorted “Captain said something similar.”

His master then looked down to him. “So how does it feel to be dedicated to perfection?” “I...don’t know.” Asriel responded. “Most don’t but you will feel it once you dedicate yourself to a craft. Then you will use what you learned to bring victory.” He nodded “So tell me my lord, do you think victory is perfection?” His new master answered quickly and without hesitation. “Yes, I...tire of wandering. Listening to the sirens I am starting to feel empty. Their song barely stokes the fires of my heart. When Taurus first spoke of his desire I was skeptical, but then I examined the tide of souls, the depravity and destruction we left in our wake after Malisdar.” His eyes widened slightly. “The souls crashing in the tides of the warp, their screams as they were torn apart by daemons. The daemonettes singing our praises for our victory. I felt a sort of ecstasy that I haven’t tasted in centuries, yes when we won the battle on Malisdar I felt good but seeing the aftermath marked in the warp? I understand and now I wonder if Taurus sees the same thing?” “I….think he does.” “How do you guess my apprentice?” “It’s the matter of superiority. How can one become better if you don’t challenge yourself physically and mentally? It’s all of that coming together, then finally stomping on your opponent into the dust, standing over them and then watching the naysayers wring their hands.” He smiled “I would like to do that to many I knew in the past. I think that’s better than torturing someone, to get proud rivals to admit that you are better than them. Also Taurus’ desire is so pure...I can’t go against that.” Asriel could see Tetricus is listening carefully “Indeed his desire is pure, only if the same could be said for the rest of the legion.” As the sorcerer said those words he recalled an old discussion with his captain. “I can see why he thinks Fabius Bile is the most favoured son of the third.” “Well he is dedicated to his goal, something that I suspect Taurus still admires.” Asriel furrowed his brow. “He admires Fabius?” “Yes, many in the third do, some even believe he could be the one that unites the shattered legion again.” “Does Taurus also believe that?” “Indeed he does, but he knows Fabius, he has no desire to lead because it would be a distraction from his goal. Our captain can clearly see that Fulgrim will rise to take the reins once again.” “When that happens would Taurus follow Lord Fulgrim.” “Of course he would, despite his reservations he is still his general. The question is whether our primarch will accept us back, but to do so will be admittance of his mistake.” Hearing that, he knew that they might be fighting forever until they are dust in the wind, the lord of the third never admits his mistakes. He knows that. But such a fate does not bother him, this place is home and he will forever find pleasure in fighting and killing for the 4th.

Dominic thrusted his spear again and again, no matter how hard he tried the five heads lining the table kept flashing in his mind. Staring at them, feeling Taurus’ blade at his throat, it was like ash has built in his mouth. The captain questioned his faith in him, he questioned his need and thirst for victory, he questioned whether if Noel wasn’t there would he have left with the rest to seek out pleasure? He stopped for a moment he tried to remember his answer. The fact that he is not dead means that he answered correctly. “I told him I would.” He couldn’t deny it. If Noel wasn’t there he would of strayed from the path of perfection. He would of stepped off the path to victory he would of aided in denying his captain his pleasure. He screwed his face into disgust. “I have to be better...I can’t be like this…” “Indeed you can’t.” he turned to the door to see his captain standing there. He walked into the training room, his stride powerful and strong. At times he wondered what he looked like, he guessed his looks matched his radiance. “Tell me Dominic what role do you want to serve in my company?” “role?” “Yes role, you see I have just seen Noel and he will lead the bladesmen, he will also carry our banner into battle.” The news was like a bombshell, the ash he tasted before returned to his mouth, sensation was draining away. It’s clear that his captain feels that Noel is above him. Taurus then gestured to the training room. “You are diligent, focused but where are you taking your training?” Dominic shook his head. “I don’t know…” “Exactly you don’t know, you don’t have a goal, Noel has his path and you have yours. So at this very moment what do you think you can do to improve your style of fighting?” He looked down to himself, he recalled that he lacked range. “I could use a ranged weapon.” “Indeed you can, but did you only decide that after watching me?” “I don’t see anything wrong about taking after you. You are radiant, the best of us. Why should I not follow your example?” His captain shook his head. “Incorrect.” Dominic panicked and knelt. “Aplogies my lord. But...I don’t understand.” Taurus gestured for him to rise. “You chose a spear, tell me why.” Dominic got up, he frowned slightly. “Because it’s a dignified and beautiful weapon.” “I see and you decided not to take anything else with it?” “N-no.” Taurus nodded he walked over to the weapon stand and removed a large stormshield. He then returned and held it towards him. “I desire the perfect company, I desire victory. Train with this and become my shield, also you will be the spear that pierces and destroys my enemies Murus.” Dominic took the shield it was plain, but the fact Taurus is handing this to him means so much more. “I thank you, but what do you mean by Murus?” “Well Dominic it’s your new nickname.” “Nickname?” “Indeed it builds camaraderie, now train I expect much from you Murus.” Taurus then left the room, now alone he looked at the shield again.

The shield was blank, but he feels that is the point. He has so much to add to himself, so much he needs to do to become the perfect weapon that Taurus wishes him to be. Dominic equipped the shield, he felt the extra weight and it’s something he would have to get used to. But he could not help but smile. “Murus...I like it.”

Asriel sat crossed legged with Tetricus, the first lesson is going to be diving into the tides of the warp, to hear it’s song. Now thinking about it, he has never really done it before. “So...what do I do?” “First you relax, block out the song of the sirens and send your mind outward.” “That’s it?” The sorcerer nodded. So he did as he was instructed, he closed his eyes he tried to relax. Next he tried to silence the song, it was difficult it was always on the edge of his hearing but it was there. After that he sent his mind out, as far as he can. He then felt his body floating upwards, it was a strange sensation, he began floating higher and higher, he looked down to see his body in it’s sitting position. He then looked to his hands to see that it’s now almost ethereal and covered in a pink flashing light. Asriel kept floating higher until the ship vanished and he was now in the vacuum of space. His body shot forward, faster than a bullet it was like he was being dragged, as he zoomed past the stars his surroundings bled slowly until he was now in space that is pink and purple in colouration. His ethereal body then ground to a stop, a second passed and then came the crashing sounds of screams. The sound was too much, he gripped his head. But the thundering shockwaves of torment kept crashing into his body. “Focus!” a familiar voice called. He tried to focus but it was too hard, he then felt a large hand on his shoulder, the screams slowly ebbed away. He removed his hands from his head and looked up to see a familiar face, despite the light obscuring it he knew who it was. “Tetricus…” his voice echoed, but he did not feel his lips moving. His master smiled at least he think he did. “Your mind is trying to process my face and voice don’t think about it too much. Now look forward.” He did as ordered, he looked forward to see the rolling tides of warp energy.

Within in the energy he could see souls being devoured by the warp energy, what is happening before him is terrible but it was beautiful at the same time. “What is happening?” The sorcerer kept his hand on his shoulder. “What do you think?” “I think that what I am seeing are souls sputtering away in the warp.” “You are correct, but my theory is what we are seeing are neverborn’s eating.” “What?” “Look carefully.” So he looked, he stared at the waves, there was a strange life to them. They sought out the white lights and tore them apart piece by piece. As the light was torn away from their bodies the lashes of warp energy would devour those soul pieces. He also thinks that if they are daemons that they are savouring them. But he wanted to be sure. “I think I should be okay you don’t have to block it.” Tetricus said nothing, he removed his hand. The screams came back in full force, he did not try and resist, he focused and let them in. Then the sounds started to make sense to him, oddly it sounded like a song, the screams of the souls, the sounds of souls being torn apart, the strange crunch and chew as the souls were devoured. Then at the edge of his hearing he could hear a feminine laughter, thousands of them. He then bought his attention to the souls, if he looked carefully he could see flashes of familiar faces. “These are the souls of those we killed on Malisdar.” “You are correct.” said Tetricus. He placed his hands behind his back and floated forward, he followed. “I first discovered this through the texts that was given to the warband by the word bearers.” “Really?” “Yes, despite their manipulations there is a wealth of knowledge in there. You see Asriel in pain and pleasure there is power.” “I know about this, a sorcerer in my old warband was experimenting with that thought in mind.” “Let me guess he is focusing on the pain part only?” “Well yes…” His master shook his head. He gestured to the sea of warp energy. “The warp is made up emotions, the gods are cornerstones of said emotions. We psykers can use this energy to manipulate reality itself.” “Now do you recall those who sacrificed their bodies to bring forth the daemonettes?” “I do.” “Good. They used both pain and pleasure, they drowned themselves in that excess. The pain which is the whip, bolter shells and las fire crashing into their bodies. Then the pleasure which is receiving said pain, the pleasure of rapturous prayer and the pleasure of having a daemon overtake their body. The well of warp energy needed to bring the daemons into their bodies as generated from said actions and emotions.” “So I guess the bigger the emotion the more power you can draw?” “Exactly, one interesting point is that sorcery works better on those who are...blind to chaos.” That piece of information drew his interest, he thought volunteers would work best. “What do you mean?” asked Asriel. “It’s quite simple let’s use torture for example, on someone who is blind to the dark prince the pain is more raw, more powerful. Also the joy you would get from it would be far more higher compared to someone who enjoys being tortured. Plus in the long run if the person who is getting tortured starts to like it...that’s even better. Now let us return.” “Er...how?” asked Asriel. Tetricus sighed slightly “Just pull yourself back, relax and do it.” Tetricus’ ethereal form shot down, Asriel looked around. “Just..pull myself back.”

So he just thought of pulling something, anything. Then he shot downwards, he flew down like a comet, the warp bled away to reveal the stars, now he was falling towards the ship. He phased right through it and shot straight towards his body, he fell back and blinked rapidly. “That...was amazing.” said Asriel. Tetricus stood over him chuckling. “That’s just a little of what I want to show you. Now that’s enough today.” He stood up, shaking his head as his master spoke. “I..want to know more.” “Later.” Tetricus said firmly. Asriel said nothing, he bowed. “Thank you for your time today.” “Yes you should be thankful and I also expect extra recaf.” “With spiced herbs?” “Yes and the tears of tortured slaves to be added to it as well.” “What? I nev-” “I add it when your not here.” he opened his pouch and pulled out a small vial of liquid he shook it slightly. “It helps me focus.” Asriel bowed again “I will keep that in mind my lord.” “Good, you are dismissed.” He left Tetricus’ room, but each step was heavy, he wanted to know more. He wanted to know what other secrets of the warp that Tetricus is hiding from him. As he walked down the tunnel and idea struck him. “I could bribe him…” He smiled to himself as the plan began forming in his head.

Taurus stood on the bridge, he waited for the response to his message he knew that Lord Eidolon would respond soon, while he waited he eyed a copy of the message he sent on his tactical feed.

Dear “Lord Commander”

I am eager to handle any tasks, send me whatever you have available.

Taurus


He smiled, it’s simple and to the point he doubts that Eidolon’s letter would be anything but that. He continued to wait in silence. As the bridge staff worked, he always found the bridge a wonderful place to stand in. The staff exuded dedication, commitment and drive. They want to be perfect, on point and they ensure errors are kept to the minimum. Taurus even recalls during a passing conversation that Sagax wants to eliminate all error. He almost got lost in that thought, his company without error, that’s a dream to aspire to. That is perfection. When all errors have been excised victory after victory will come. “Excuse me my lord…” His train of thought was broken, the astropath was now before him holding a piece of paper. “Is that it?” the blind psyker nodded, he then handed the paper to him. Taurus read it carefully.

I won’t bother with niceties, I don’t know what you are planning but I do have a task that needs to be completed. The loyal followers of our father and the third requires a...minor forge world to be taken. Considering your ego in thinking that you are above us such a task should be simple for your “company”. The forge world is called Agithian prime. The factorum city Agithax I needs to be taken. So your task is simple, take the city and my forces will come and garrison it and then the slaves can put the forgeworld to use for the third. The coordinates are in the message.

He smiled as he read the letter, he knew that most likely he did not need the forgeworld. Forgeworld’s can’t be taken by a single warband. They are defended by tech priests and their skitarii. He carefully folded the letter and placed it into his pouch for safe keeping. The astropath looked up to him with his opaque eyes. “My lord if you don’t mind me asking...what are you going to do?” “Well, I need to get the chalkboard ready.” He turned away and left the bridge, he was still smiling as he left.
   
Made in gb
Eternally-Stimulated Slaanesh Dreadnought





Chapter 20
Asriel walked down the tunnel with Tetricus, the fact that all his training sessions will now be with him was oddly pleasing for some reason. He guessed that he always viewed his psychic powers and minor sorcery he employs to be simple utility. But now he has a proper teacher and an old one at that. His new master gave him a strange look. “What are you thinking about?” “I am just excited.” “Oh? You are aware the training will be grueling right?” “And painful?” “Indeed.” “Well pain is another joy to be experienced.” “True, but I assure you that you won’t enjoy it.” Asriel smiled he could see Tetricus is actually excited, he knew he would never say it out loud. But he wanted this badly. “Tell me why do you desire to train me?” The sorcerer stopped, so did he. “Because we are the other.” “Other?” “We aren’t the same as the rest of them. We are witches. Tell me how did you awaken your powers?” “Well...I was possessed one time. I think that has something to do with it.” His master raised his eyebrow, he could see on his face that he is wondering if he is telling the truth. “Anyway that’s a long story. But no one has treated me any different.” “Yes because they fear you.” “Fear me?” “Yes, they fear us because the power we wield, some of my brothers still make comments behind my back and I imagine they do the same for you now that you have entered Taurus’ confidence.” Tetricus began to walk, He did the same for a time there was silence. He thought about what he just said and Asriel realised that it’s likely that Tetricus is lonely in a sense. He can’t share the joy of his powers with anyone, until he and his other rivals came along. “My lord I am sure there are many psykers on the ship, why haven’t you trained all of them?” “Because very few have talent or drive Asriel. Most humans are dirt, worse than that. They exist to make us feel or to die for us in battle. Very few are gems and I dislike wasting my time.” “I understand my lord.” Silence reigned again, but this time Tetricus spoke. “Tell me what do you think of Lucretius?” “Well he wants to eat me.” “I know, but Taurus forgot to tell you that he is in charge of the cult.” “What!? Why!?” “He is a symbol, even if I detest the creature he is essentially an angel of the dark prince. That is powerful.” “I think I understand at the same time it seems...he can gain information from those he drinks from.” “Oh? Please do tell.” “Well it has to do with Taurus, he told me after drinking his blood he saw his splendor and the shining visage of the dark prince. So out of the astartes he can relate to humans better.” “You mean he can manipulate them better.” Tetricus said cooly. “True but he is infatuated with Taurus. I think he will spread the word of his glory and the dark prince to anyone who will hear.” His master snorted “Captain said something similar.”

His master then looked down to him. “So how does it feel to be dedicated to perfection?” “I...don’t know.” Asriel responded. “Most don’t but you will feel it once you dedicate yourself to a craft. Then you will use what you learned to bring victory.” He nodded “So tell me my lord, do you think victory is perfection?” His new master answered quickly and without hesitation. “Yes, I...tire of wandering. Listening to the sirens I am starting to feel empty. Their song barely stokes the fires of my heart. When Taurus first spoke of his desire I was skeptical, but then I examined the tide of souls, the depravity and destruction we left in our wake after Malisdar.” His eyes widened slightly. “The souls crashing in the tides of the warp, their screams as they were torn apart by daemons. The daemonettes singing our praises for our victory. I felt a sort of ecstasy that I haven’t tasted in centuries, yes when we won the battle on Malisdar I felt good but seeing the aftermath marked in the warp? I understand and now I wonder if Taurus sees the same thing?” “I….think he does.” “How do you guess my apprentice?” “It’s the matter of superiority. How can one become better if you don’t challenge yourself physically and mentally? It’s all of that coming together, then finally stomping on your opponent into the dust, standing over them and then watching the naysayers wring their hands.” He smiled “I would like to do that to many I knew in the past. I think that’s better than torturing someone, to get proud rivals to admit that you are better than them. Also Taurus’ desire is so pure...I can’t go against that.” Asriel could see Tetricus is listening carefully “Indeed his desire is pure, only if the same could be said for the rest of the legion.” As the sorcerer said those words he recalled an old discussion with his captain. “I can see why he thinks Fabius Bile is the most favoured son of the third.” “Well he is dedicated to his goal, something that I suspect Taurus still admires.” Asriel furrowed his brow. “He admires Fabius?” “Yes, many in the third do, some even believe he could be the one that unites the shattered legion again.” “Does Taurus also believe that?” “Indeed he does, but he knows Fabius, he has no desire to lead because it would be a distraction from his goal. Our captain can clearly see that Fulgrim will rise to take the reins once again.” “When that happens would Taurus follow Lord Fulgrim.” “Of course he would, despite his reservations he is still his general. The question is whether our primarch will accept us back, but to do so will be admittance of his mistake.” Hearing that, he knew that they might be fighting forever until they are dust in the wind, the lord of the third never admits his mistakes. He knows that. But such a fate does not bother him, this place is home and he will forever find pleasure in fighting and killing for the 4th.

Dominic thrusted his spear again and again, no matter how hard he tried the five heads lining the table kept flashing in his mind. Staring at them, feeling Taurus’ blade at his throat, it was like ash has built in his mouth. The captain questioned his faith in him, he questioned his need and thirst for victory, he questioned whether if Noel wasn’t there would he have left with the rest to seek out pleasure? He stopped for a moment he tried to remember his answer. The fact that he is not dead means that he answered correctly. “I told him I would.” He couldn’t deny it. If Noel wasn’t there he would of strayed from the path of perfection. He would of stepped off the path to victory he would of aided in denying his captain his pleasure. He screwed his face into disgust. “I have to be better...I can’t be like this…” “Indeed you can’t.” he turned to the door to see his captain standing there. He walked into the training room, his stride powerful and strong. At times he wondered what he looked like, he guessed his looks matched his radiance. “Tell me Dominic what role do you want to serve in my company?” “role?” “Yes role, you see I have just seen Noel and he will lead the bladesmen, he will also carry our banner into battle.” The news was like a bombshell, the ash he tasted before returned to his mouth, sensation was draining away. It’s clear that his captain feels that Noel is above him. Taurus then gestured to the training room. “You are diligent, focused but where are you taking your training?” Dominic shook his head. “I don’t know…” “Exactly you don’t know, you don’t have a goal, Noel has his path and you have yours. So at this very moment what do you think you can do to improve your style of fighting?” He looked down to himself, he recalled that he lacked range. “I could use a ranged weapon.” “Indeed you can, but did you only decide that after watching me?” “I don’t see anything wrong about taking after you. You are radiant, the best of us. Why should I not follow your example?” His captain shook his head. “Incorrect.” Dominic panicked and knelt. “Aplogies my lord. But...I don’t understand.” Taurus gestured for him to rise. “You chose a spear, tell me why.” Dominic got up, he frowned slightly. “Because it’s a dignified and beautiful weapon.” “I see and you decided not to take anything else with it?” “N-no.” Taurus nodded he walked over to the weapon stand and removed a large stormshield. He then returned and held it towards him. “I desire the perfect company, I desire victory. Train with this and become my shield, also you will be the spear that pierces and destroys my enemies Murus.” Dominic took the shield it was plain, but the fact Taurus is handing this to him means so much more. “I thank you, but what do you mean by Murus?” “Well Dominic it’s your new nickname.” “Nickname?” “Indeed it builds camaraderie, now train I expect much from you Murus.” Taurus then left the room, now alone he looked at the shield again.

The shield was blank, but he feels that is the point. He has so much to add to himself, so much he needs to do to become the perfect weapon that Taurus wishes him to be. Dominic equipped the shield, he felt the extra weight and it’s something he would have to get used to. But he could not help but smile. “Murus...I like it.”

Asriel sat crossed legged with Tetricus, the first lesson is going to be diving into the tides of the warp, to hear it’s song. Now thinking about it, he has never really done it before. “So...what do I do?” “First you relax, block out the song of the sirens and send your mind outward.” “That’s it?” The sorcerer nodded. So he did as he was instructed, he closed his eyes he tried to relax. Next he tried to silence the song, it was difficult it was always on the edge of his hearing but it was there. After that he sent his mind out, as far as he can. He then felt his body floating upwards, it was a strange sensation, he began floating higher and higher, he looked down to see his body in it’s sitting position. He then looked to his hands to see that it’s now almost ethereal and covered in a pink flashing light. Asriel kept floating higher until the ship vanished and he was now in the vacuum of space. His body shot forward, faster than a bullet it was like he was being dragged, as he zoomed past the stars his surroundings bled slowly until he was now in space that is pink and purple in colouration. His ethereal body then ground to a stop, a second passed and then came the crashing sounds of screams. The sound was too much, he gripped his head. But the thundering shockwaves of torment kept crashing into his body. “Focus!” a familiar voice called. He tried to focus but it was too hard, he then felt a large hand on his shoulder, the screams slowly ebbed away. He removed his hands from his head and looked up to see a familiar face, despite the light obscuring it he knew who it was. “Tetricus…” his voice echoed, but he did not feel his lips moving. His master smiled at least he think he did. “Your mind is trying to process my face and voice don’t think about it too much. Now look forward.” He did as ordered, he looked forward to see the rolling tides of warp energy.

Within in the energy he could see souls being devoured by the warp energy, what is happening before him is terrible but it was beautiful at the same time. “What is happening?” The sorcerer kept his hand on his shoulder. “What do you think?” “I think that what I am seeing are souls sputtering away in the warp.” “You are correct, but my theory is what we are seeing are neverborn’s eating.” “What?” “Look carefully.” So he looked, he stared at the waves, there was a strange life to them. They sought out the white lights and tore them apart piece by piece. As the light was torn away from their bodies the lashes of warp energy would devour those soul pieces. He also thinks that if they are daemons that they are savouring them. But he wanted to be sure. “I think I should be okay you don’t have to block it.” Tetricus said nothing, he removed his hand. The screams came back in full force, he did not try and resist, he focused and let them in. Then the sounds started to make sense to him, oddly it sounded like a song, the screams of the souls, the sounds of souls being torn apart, the strange crunch and chew as the souls were devoured. Then at the edge of his hearing he could hear a feminine laughter, thousands of them. He then bought his attention to the souls, if he looked carefully he could see flashes of familiar faces. “These are the souls of those we killed on Malisdar.” “You are correct.” said Tetricus. He placed his hands behind his back and floated forward, he followed. “I first discovered this through the texts that was given to the warband by the word bearers.” “Really?” “Yes, despite their manipulations there is a wealth of knowledge in there. You see Asriel in pain and pleasure there is power.” “I know about this, a sorcerer in my old warband was experimenting with that thought in mind.” “Let me guess he is focusing on the pain part only?” “Well yes…” His master shook his head. He gestured to the sea of warp energy. “The warp is made up emotions, the gods are cornerstones of said emotions. We psykers can use this energy to manipulate reality itself.” “Now do you recall those who sacrificed their bodies to bring forth the daemonettes?” “I do.” “Good. They used both pain and pleasure, they drowned themselves in that excess. The pain which is the whip, bolter shells and las fire crashing into their bodies. Then the pleasure which is receiving said pain, the pleasure of rapturous prayer and the pleasure of having a daemon overtake their body. The well of warp energy needed to bring the daemons into their bodies as generated from said actions and emotions.” “So I guess the bigger the emotion the more power you can draw?” “Exactly, one interesting point is that sorcery works better on those who are...blind to chaos.” That piece of information drew his interest, he thought volunteers would work best. “What do you mean?” asked Asriel. “It’s quite simple let’s use torture for example, on someone who is blind to the dark prince the pain is more raw, more powerful. Also the joy you would get from it would be far more higher compared to someone who enjoys being tortured. Plus in the long run if the person who is getting tortured starts to like it...that’s even better. Now let us return.” “Er...how?” asked Asriel. Tetricus sighed slightly “Just pull yourself back, relax and do it.” Tetricus’ ethereal form shot down, Asriel looked around. “Just..pull myself back.”

So he just thought of pulling something, anything. Then he shot downwards, he flew down like a comet, the warp bled away to reveal the stars, now he was falling towards the ship. He phased right through it and shot straight towards his body, he fell back and blinked rapidly. “That...was amazing.” said Asriel. Tetricus stood over him chuckling. “That’s just a little of what I want to show you. Now that’s enough today.” He stood up, shaking his head as his master spoke. “I..want to know more.” “Later.” Tetricus said firmly. Asriel said nothing, he bowed. “Thank you for your time today.” “Yes you should be thankful and I also expect extra recaf.” “With spiced herbs?” “Yes and the tears of tortured slaves to be added to it as well.” “What? I nev-” “I add it when your not here.” he opened his pouch and pulled out a small vial of liquid he shook it slightly. “It helps me focus.” Asriel bowed again “I will keep that in mind my lord.” “Good, you are dismissed.” He left Tetricus’ room, but each step was heavy, he wanted to know more. He wanted to know what other secrets of the warp that Tetricus is hiding from him. As he walked down the tunnel and idea struck him. “I could bribe him…” He smiled to himself as the plan began forming in his head.

Taurus stood on the bridge, he waited for the response to his message he knew that Lord Eidolon would respond soon, while he waited he eyed a copy of the message he sent on his tactical feed.

Dear “Lord Commander”

I am eager to handle any tasks, send me whatever you have available.

Taurus


He smiled, it’s simple and to the point he doubts that Eidolon’s letter would be anything but that. He continued to wait in silence. As the bridge staff worked, he always found the bridge a wonderful place to stand in. The staff exuded dedication, commitment and drive. They want to be perfect, on point and they ensure errors are kept to the minimum. Taurus even recalls during a passing conversation that Sagax wants to eliminate all error. He almost got lost in that thought, his company without error, that’s a dream to aspire to. That is perfection. When all errors have been excised victory after victory will come. “Excuse me my lord…” His train of thought was broken, the astropath was now before him holding a piece of paper. “Is that it?” the blind psyker nodded, he then handed the paper to him. Taurus read it carefully.

I won’t bother with niceties, I don’t know what you are planning but I do have a task that needs to be completed. The loyal followers of our father and the third requires a...minor forge world to be taken. Considering your ego in thinking that you are above us such a task should be simple for your “company”. The forge world is called Agithian prime. The factory city Agithax I needs to be taken. So your task is simple, take the city and my forces will come and garrison it and then the slaves can put the forgeworld to use for the third. The coordinates are in the message.

He smiled as he read the letter, he knew that most likely he did not need the forge world nor did any of the warband's that followed Eidolon. Forge world’s can’t be taken by a single warband. They are defended by tech priests and their skitarii or even by imperial knights. He carefully folded the letter and placed it into his pouch for safe keeping. The astropath looked up to him with his opaque eyes. “My lord if you don’t mind me asking...what are you going to do?” “Well, I need to get the chalkboard ready.” He turned away and left the bridge, he was still smiling as he left.

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 2018/06/27 00:34:14


 
   
 
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