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lliu wrote:
Haha nice. The new direction is refreshing. All of a sudden he's back at square one and has to work it up again.

The great thing about it is that Asriel did it to himself

Chapter 27

A sword shall be buried it will drink deep from the well of corruption provided by the herald.

Noxus opened his eyes he gazed out of the small slit of his coffin the same chair is in its usual place machinery is strewn about the room. As always he felt cold he could not feel anything. He wanted this torment to end he wondered why Adelram kept him alive perhaps in his morbid sense of brotherly love Adelram thinks he is caring for him. Noxus could tell even in this room that corruption has truly set in. He recalled the days of the starlight king those days pale in comparison to what is occurring now on the ship.

Even at this moment he can hear someone being murdered right outside his door and his corpse being dragged away for whatever perversion the killer has uses for. Noxus wanted to sleep he willed himself to sleep it's the only time he ever has reprieve from this torment. Yet for some reason he could not sleep. Noxus mused on the last conversation he had with Adelram's creature. Noxus has been trying to figure out the dreams and visions but at some point he gave up he could not make sense of it hence he has found the creatures pestering to be annoying. Noxus still hated the creature always so sure of itself. Noxus wondered how much of the creature is human in his experience those possessed by neverborn become monstrosities ready to bounce on you or back stab you at any time. If the vision is what he think it is then his thinking is proved correct if he can be sure of what he saw which he never is.

Since being interred within this hulk he found he has lost all pretences the creature is an it. Still the creature is ready to give everything to whatever it set its mind to. In the past he watched the creature from a distance how his brothers fawned over it or praised it. Even so he could tell something has changed how the creature acted before shows that much.

Noxus chuckled "The creature provided so much for them yet they give back so little." Noxus as always tried to move the chains held him back. Noxus knew that they chained him so they could control him better. Noxus wondered if perhaps using this frame he could tear Silas' head off for his insults. He would show them all what he thinks of them, Noxus clenched a fist with the hand of the dreadnought.

As he did so he saw the door opening he sighed seeing who it was "Creature. I told you to go away." The creature sat in front of him as always at times when he is awake and it is sitting there Noxus simply remains silent hoping it would go away. Yet the creature sits there for hours at a time to his annoyance.

Noxus could see this time the creature was holding a board and small table it placed the table in front of the chair and placed the board down. Noxus looked at it in confusion "Why have you bought that here?" The creature looked up in surprise "Lord Noxus you are awake? Good!" Noxus sighed "I wish I was asleep now what do you want creature?" The creature began setting up pieces on the board he said "Regicide have you played it?" Noxus looked at the pieces "No. Also I have no interest in playing your stupid game creature." The creature smiled "You see my lord I personally think that this game reveals a lot about a person." Noxus thought on his words for some reason he wondered what kind of person he was. He was always in the background he held caution to a near virtue it kept him alive so far. If he heeded that he might of not been placed within this cold machine.
Noxus moved forward slightly "Explain the rules." The creature explained the rules in length certain pieces move certain distances and the goal of the game is to put the king in the position of capture. Noxus snorted it came out as a rumble "This is easy. You will move my pieces for me creature." The creatured nodded.

So they played the game what Noxus gathered during the game is that the creature tries to hold onto as many pieces as possible even the pawns that are more easily discardable. It is clear to him that the creature dislikes sacrificing pieces. Noxus narrowed his eyes "You lost an important piece because you wanted to save the pawn creature." The creature folded his arms "Your play style is really reserved Lord Noxus you wait to bait out the opponent. You want to see how he ticks." Noxus shifted his eyes at the board the creature was right he wanted to get the sense of how he played before he commits. Noxus recalled it's last words that he thinks this game can reveal a lot about a person. Noxus shifted his eyes to the creature he wondered if perhaps it is using this to understand him and vice versa?

Eventually the game ended in his win the creature looked at the board "You are pretty good at this." Noxus blinked looking at the board He deconstructed the creature's strategy it wanted to preserve as many pieces as possible. All Noxus had to do is bait him into moves that would expose them to harm. Noxus looked at the creature "So that's what kind of person you are. Tell me with your own mouth creature why you do what you do." The creature looked at him in surprise its voice was low as it said "I consider everyone family. I want to do my best to help them." Noxus heard these words enter his ears he was dumbfounded. He felt a range of shock to annoyance he simply laughed hard "This is rich! Unbelievable! Do you seriously believe that?!"

The creature nodded slowly "you can laugh but that's the way I feel." Noxus kept laughing as he said "Get out creature. Just get out of my sight you are foolish and blind." The creature gathered the small board and table along with the pieces it went to the door it turned slightly "I will be back same time tomorrow." Noxus chuckled he wanted to make a point to the creature before it left "You exist because Adelram finds you useful that's it. At times he finds you interesting. Yet in the end creature he does not consider you family of any sort you are seeking something or want something that is not there." The creature left the room in silence.

Silence, sweet silence no one to bother him he can sleep being awake is painful it's like the cold bites into the reminder of his skin. The liquid his body is held in also prickles at times. Noxus felt tired he wanted to sleep Noxus closed his eyes. Noxus felt his mind drifting as always he see's things in the darkness. This time he saw a planet he felt himself being dragged downwards towards it. He could see a hive city it was familiar for one reason or another. Noxus tried to think of where he saw it before as he was thinking in the skies appeared numbers 66224493. The planet and the numbers dissipated bringing him to darkness again. Noxus opened his eyes he wondered how much time passed. Sometimes when he awakens he finds himself on a battlefield other times he awakens to the stench of blood on his harness. This time there are two people poking around the room.

Both wore black robes one pointed their voice female in sound at least he thought it was "Naberius he is awake look!" The one who seemed to be Naberius walked foward "I wonder what he saw this time Sitri?" Noxus scowled "Slaves! I wonder how you got in here..." Sitri laughed and pointed at him "He is calling us slaves Naberius!" Naberius shook his head "Now now Sitri we are slaves of a sort. Slaves to him." Sitri shrugged "Still there is no way we would give ourselves to anyone here not after that." Naberius nodded in agreement. Noxus grew annoyed they spoke to him almost like a child if he was not chained he would break their bodies "Are you here to mock me?! What do you want?!" Naberius removed his hood as he did so Noxus felt a strange sensation it was the kind he got as the Nurgle's axe swung towards him. Noxus narrowed his eyes "Who do you work for? No what are you?"

Sitri nodded "Our master was right he seems pretty smart." Naberius scratched his chin "The question of who we work for and what we are is not important right now. I want to see whether you gave up or not." Noxus became confused "Speak plainly." Naberius coughed "Have you given up becoming a star? Have you given up trying to be important?" Naberius words were like barbs for some reason Noxus clenched his teeth "Look at me fool. What can I do? I am insulted reviled and stored away like a mere axe or sword." Sitri shrugged "I think he is giving up Naberius he is going to disappoint him."

Naberius waved to quiten Sitri "Just because your body is hacked in half is that a good enough reason to stop? One small bump on the road of complexity. One hurdle and you gave up? You still dream don't you?" When Noxus heard that he knew these people are dangerous. He does not know where they came from or who they served. He had no idea what they are. They knew too much who knows what else they might be hiding. Still Noxus thought on his words he is stuck in this situation because he is allowing himself to remain this way. He has only himself to blame for feeling like this no one is doing it to him. Nothing will get better if he tries to sleep to avoid. To deny what has happened to him Noxus stepped forward straining the chains instinctively clenching a dreadnought fist he shouted "I want to show them! I want to stand over them and gloat! I want them to know I am above them! I wish to throw every insult back! I am not a dead star! I am not a useless! I am not an invalid! " Naberius clapped "Good! Very good. You don't want to disappoint our master..."

Sitri almost twirled slightly "It seems our work is done Naberius. He must know what to do next." Naberius nodded "Indeed. It's time to leave." Naberius placed his hood back on Noxus watched both of them leaving the room.

Noxus thought on what they just said and they were right he would wait for the creature to return. No he would wait for Asriel to return since if they work something out he would be a creature no longer. Noxus felt something he had not felt in a long time warmth.

Chapter 27

The giant plucks the corrupted blade from the ground now filled with the most vilest and most holy corruption.

Asriel sat in his room annotating Noxus' words he felt slightly annoyed with himself he thought he made some progress using the regicide game but in one moment all of that vanished. Asriel wondered if Noxus would even talk to him now as he was thinking Meliva's voice pierced his mind "told you it was a waste of time. Leave him let his mind wither and rot. His words are pointless you should not heed them." Asriel frowned "This is all I can do Meliva. I can't do anything else." Meliva coiled slightly in annoyance "Oh really? Why not cut loose enjoy the bounties of the ship? Our time would be better spent doing that than listening to a cripple and a fool."

Asriel moved his pen away from the paper his annoyance spilled out "Why do you keep trying to make me give up on him? You are quiet whenever I do anything else yet when it comes to Noxus you protest. Why?" Asriel waited for Meliva's barb or retort. Yet none came he could only hear his own thoughts. Asriel sighed "I will never understand neverborn."

Asriel closed the book it's around this time he vists Noxus. Still he doubted if he will get anything today. Asriel got up from his desk and left his room. Asriel walked the halls of the ship and in the distance he saw someone approaching. He was armed but Asriel payed no mind as Asriel got close and walked past Asriel heard the drawing of a blade. Asriel turned around the attacker screaming he bought down his blade"Die! Murderer!" Asriel narrowed his eyes he dodged to the side where the attacker is wielding his blade and grabbed his arm with one hand.
Asriel shook his head his assailant is struggling to free his arm "You should be aware that you can't kill me. Considering you are on this level of the ship." The attacker shouted "Shut up! Monster!" Asriel raised his eyebrow in confusion, Asriel released the arm of the person trying to kill him. He staggered back he balanced himself and came forward to attack again Asriel simply pushed downward with his hands. The attacker fell to the ground unable to move.

Asriel looked him over his attacker wore black robes his skin look scarred and he was bald with fair skin. Asriel frowned "Now will you please explain what you mean exactly? Or do I have to tear the answers out of you?" His attacker fell silent looking away it's clear he does not want to speak. Asriel sighed "Right I will tear the answers out then." Asriel's hands started to glow the attacker quickly flicked his head to him "No! Wait! Fine! Dammit! I will explain..." Asriel nodded "Right do you have a name?" His assailant looked at him in disgust "I won't give my name to you." Asriel shrugged "Fine at least explain why you tried to kill me." The attacker cast his head down slightly his voice breaking "You killed my wife and child! You tortured them and you devoured them!" He started to weep "I heard my boy calling out for his father as you tore him apart.... I was terrified I held my breath just hoping you would not see me..." Asriel gut felt empty for some reason yet he was also confused he did not recall devouring a woman and child recently.

Asriel shook his head "Murders happen on the ship all the time I don't ever recall harming your wife and child." The assailant clenched his fists "I saw you! So you are you going to Deny Paul's murder as well?! He had the same injuries when he was found! Everyone is talking about it!" Asriel recalled hearing a discussion about this before he rarely payed any mind to what the serfs discuss. "I don't recall killing anyone lately how can you be sure it's me? Can you describe this Paul then?" The attacker mumbled he then described Paul's looks in length. Asriel stroked his chin thinking a cold bead of sweat ran down his temple. The description of Paul is oddly similar to the person he was chasing in his dream. Yet it's impossible it was a dream he did not taste blood in his mouth either when he woke up. Asriel looked down at the man who attacked him"I will release you but if you try this again..." The assailant laughed "I got nothing to lose! If you let me go I will kill you fiend. He said I will feel happy again when I do it! She said I will feel joy as your blood is spilled on the floor!"

Asriel sighed in annoyance he made his hand form a gripping motion and twisted his assilant head moved abnormally as the neck snapped. Asriel looked at the corpse for a moment he turned away and continued down the hall he ground his teeth he spoke within his mind putting as much force as he can within his words "Meliva! Do you know anything about this?!" Asriel felt his pace increasing he felt anxious and his annoyance was increasing. Meliva's silence did not help either, Asriel called again "Meliva!" Meliva hissed within his mind "What do you want?" Asriel stopped he clenched his hands "I just killed a man who claims I killed his wife and child! He is also linking me with another murder! Do you know anything about this?!" Meliva coiled gently within his breast "Please. The man is a fool if I made you kill someone I would pick far better targets." Asriel placed his hand on his chest "Yet the description of Paul matched the person in the dream I had. What... is happening to me?" Meliva chuckled "Don't worry it's just a dream he has no proof. Considering the state of the ship he could of seen anything and don't forget murder is normal here."

Asriel heard Meliva's words yet he could not believe them. It did not reassure him considering how many times he had those dreams how many people might actually be dead? A familiar sort of despair began setting in a despair he has not felt in 100 years Meliva cooed "Calm yourself that is not happening." Asriel's mouth felt dry Meliva's words only made him recall that moment even more.

Asriel closed his eyes he tried to focus on his current task with Noxus to keep his mind off that dangerous thought.

Asriel finally made his way to Noxus' room he opened the door using the panel. As Asriel walked in he looked up at the dreadnought Asriel wondered if Noxus is even awake. Asriel sat down on the chair he opened his book and waited. After a few seconds a voice came from the dreadnought to Asriel's surprise "Asriel."

Asriels eyes went wide "You said my name? What? Why?" Noxus chuckled "I had a change in perspective." Asriel was in disblief "That quickly?" Noxus voice came through the vox speaker again his voice firm "I did have a change in perspective but I also have terms."
Asriel nodded "What are your terms Lord Noxus?" Noxus walked forward slightly he strained the chains "I have two terms. My first is that you find a means for us to discuss our findings privately. I don't want the creature you are sharing your body with to listen in on us." Asriel furrowed his brows "Lord Noxus may I ask why you are deciding such a term?" Noxus gripped the fist of the dreadnought "I do not trust it. What I tell you might effect it that is all I will say on the matter." Meliva gave a low hiss "Don't waste your time with this thing reject it. Reject it now." Asriel listened to Meliva's protests he closed his eyes for a moment thinking as he opened them he looked up to Noxus "Right what is your second term?"

Noxus stopped straining the chains "My second term is that you don't mention a word of our discussions to anyone until we are both satisfied we have reached the appropriate conclusion of my visions." Asriel suddenly felt unsure on the second term they might discover something together that would be useful to his lord.

Still Asriel did think if he displayed all of the findings together at the end his lord might find something even more useful for him to use. Asriel nodded "I agree with your terms Lord Noxus." The hands of the dreadnought twisted Noxus said "Good. Now I assume you will be getting to work completing the first term yes? From all that I have seen of you Asriel you are resourceful."

Meliva began thrashing in his chest Asriel gasped slightly "Why?! Why?! He has nothing useful to say! All of these terms are in his favour!" Asriel clenched his chest "Or perhaps Meliva he will say something you don't want me to hear." Asriel felt Meliva drawing back slightly "No. It's more the fact he wants to manipulate us. Use us for his own benefit." Asriel closed his eyes he spoke out loud "There is nothing wrong with that Meliva." The thrashing stopped and Meliva fell silent he looked up to Noxus "I will begin working on that right away." Noxus voice boomed out of the dreadnought speaker "Good. I look forward to when we can speak freely."

Asriel got up and left the room he walked down the hall wondering how he could complete that term. It would take advance sorcery to block the sight of a neverborn yet a part of Asriel doubts that his lord will help him considering he thinks Noxus is useless. Asriel thought on asking Isira but he knows that she will try to manipulate him somehow for her benefit.

Asriel soon reached the door of his room he was still thinking his mind drifted to Naberius and Sitri Asriel smiled "I could ask both of them. They should be at Marthas' temple" Asriel said under his breath. As he said those words he could feel, no he knows Meliva is scowling she said "You mustn't go to those two. You can't trust them." Asriel opened the door of his room "Yet I can trust you?" Asriel could feel Meliva relaxing she is now speaking gently "Yes, think about it all I have given you. I made you strong. I made you feared. I opened your mind to the power of the dark prince. All that you did on Zatos would not be possible if it was not for me. Our master values us because of me. I am thinking of about our interests."

Asriel walked into his room he placed the book on the desk. He touched it lightly with his fingers "He valued me before that Meliva." Meliva continued to speak gently "Yet things change. If I was gone what could you do? You would not be the same person if I was removed you will be nothing. Yes you are now a psyker but you would will become a broken human walking among demi-gods. Look at the one in iron to see what they do to one of their own who is a cripple. What do you think our master would do to you? If you became a mewling Invalid? A beggar of attention licking your masters boots at his every word?" Meliva kept pressing "He would chain you to his room like a slave and use your screams in the song he is making with Camila. I bet you did not expect bringing her over would turn out like this? First name bases. He now spends all his time with her and not with you. I can taste it Asriel he is frightened of getting bored of you he is already starting to feel it. Why do you think he gave you that order? Yet you ignore it since you feel you know better. You ignore him and you ignore me when we have your best interests in mind...."

Asriel listened to her words carefully he brushed his fingers down his book thinking on the past and what lead him to this point he smiled "Then that is how it has to be then. If he is more happy with her than me then I am also happy Meliva. As I said I think this will be important Naberius said I will suffer for pursuing this road and suffer I must." Meliva scoffed "You are a fool." Asriel nodded "Indeed. I have been a fool for a long time but that's just how I am a fool pursing a foolish need but it's my need. It's what I want and working on this will help them I know it." Meliva laughed mockingly "Then pursue this foolish road then. I will laugh when you trip."

Asriel closed his eyes "I expect to be bruised and broken by the end of this Meliva. The road of the dark prince is ever complex."

Oddly enough I really enjoyed writing this chapter.

Chapter 28

The sword of corruption will strike out against the enemies of the Herald.

Marthas is walking to a location few would like to go to if they do it's either to mock the person or belittle them. He is going there to salvage something of value Silas is with him. As Silas walked the sound from his boots were like thunder due to the terminator armour. Silas sighed in annoyance "Why are we bothering with him? He is useless." Marthas grinned "What of you before I convinced you to follow me?" Silas grunted "I am different. He won't listen he is broken Adelram has seen to that. Even now after he has lost everything he won't join under someone or even fight I wonder why Adelram simply does not kill him and be done with it."

Marthas listened to Silas' words but he could not turn away after committing to this action it's his role and duty to hone the elite of the warband to a razor point. It consumes all of his time constantly Astartes come to his temple to ask to be made perfect. To be powerful and to be strong. Marthas muttered a small prayer he knew he had to do this to attain his vision, Marthas looked down the hall he could see someone approaching someone familiar. Normally these days he simply walks by the person who is approaching but this time is different. Marthas stopped "Asriel? I can see you want something. If you do not know I have things to do." Asriel stopped he looked up "Do you know where Naberius and Sitri are?" The question threw Marthas off guard no one ever sought them out and those within the temple always gave both of them a wide birth.

Ever since he found his path his need it utterly consumed him Marthas found the more planets they attacked the more focused he becomed. Everything else not pertaining to his need he felt was a distraction but this time he felt a tinge of curisoity "May I ask why Asriel?"
Asriel looked down slightly thinking, Marthas wondered what sort of plan he is weaving in his head. Such a request in all his years that he has known Asriel something big might be happening. Asriel shook his head "I can't say unfortunately." As soon as Asriel said those words Marthas found his curiosity was expanding ever so slowly he shook his head he can't allow himself to get distracted he needed to focus "They are in the temple their room is in the far back." Asriel nodded he gave a slight bow before he left.

Silas looked at Asriel leaving when he vanished into the darkness Marthas could see Silas has began staring at him "You are not curious?" Marthas turned to Silas "No." Marthas lied. Silas raised his shoulders in a slight shrug "Considering he is asking of those two.. are you sure he is not planning anything major?" Marthas looked down the hall "I am sure it's nothing. He has not changed or found a focus since we left Zatos." Silas nodded his terminator helmet bobbing slightly "Yes, I have seen also seen this what does Adelram think of this?" Marthas stroked his chin in contemplation "Well.. considering how much time he spends with Camila I believe Asriel is in danger."

Silas chuckled slightly "Really? Her music is lovely but I don't think he would get rid of Asriel." Marthas shook his head in disagreement "You have seen how Adelram is changing yes? All those... little things we do after we raid a planet?" Marthas could tell Silas is grinning as he mentioned the the past raids. Silas said "Oh yes I recall that he tried his hand at painting some of the captured slaves. He then tore out their souls and placed it within the picture I wish we could of taken some of them with us." Marthas nodded "Indeed after that the second planet we.. devoured the populace and Adelram ate the most out of all of us." Silas shook his head in confusion "Are you going to make a point soon?" Marthas rubbed his neck he sighed "He is doing all of this to bring the attention of h- our father." Marthas licked his lips slightly it did not feel exactly right to say but he was getting used to it "Now in my eyes we have not even reached the tip of the iceberg we are far from that but who is he now involving in reaching it? Not Asriel of course. Adelram is even using Isabella and Isira far more. The one he is turning to is Camila most of all. Think of us as well since Asriel provided the bounties of the ship have we approached him for anything?"

Silas began nodding in understanding "I see what we want does not require Asriel to be involved he has already provided everything of worth to us to move along our path." Marthas smiled "Indeed he gave so much but in the end it caused us to lose interest somewhat." Silas rubbed his helmet "So if you know this why do you largely ignore him then? You have known him the longest longer than Adelram." Marthas folded his arms "It's because I know that he would want me to focus on my path than for me to fawn over him like all the other serfs. He does not plot to rise in any form Asriel only wishes to serve our needs and if we don't require him he would not mind either. What I am worried about now is Adelram's reaction to that."

Silas mused out loud "Why would Adelram's reaction be a problem?" Marthas lowered his arms and stopped he turned to Silas who stopped in turn "He is pushing further and harder compared to any one of us. From my discussions with Naberius and Sitri he is welling up with the favour of the dark prince I can see it and if you look closely you should be able to see it as well. Now I am sure Adelram has most likely told Asriel to pursue something that would catch his eye but I know Asriel wouldn't all he knows is how to serve not much else. He kills in order to serve Adelram's needs and he learns new things for our sake but what if Adelram does not need that? In my eyes Adelram no longer requires that now what is holding Adelram's hand? At this moment?" Silas cocked his head slightly the helmet shifting "I see. So what is holding his hand then?" Marthas smiled he could tell it chilled Silas somewhat considering how he shifted "I believe two things Sentimentality the last shreds he is most likely clinging to. Now the practical reason? The largest aspect of why he is holding on to him? Is that at this moment Asriel is possessed that has uses. Still will that usefulness remain the more powerful Adelram gets?"

Marthas turned away and continued to walk down the hall he could hear Silas followed suit Silas said "So if he does become useless to Adelram what will he do? Kill him? I am not sure about that." As Silas said those words they stopped in front of a door Marthas turned his head in Silas' direction "He would. Would you put it past him? From what I hear one mistake he stuffed Asriel in a cage to largely rot and die and when the ship was being destroyed Asriel was not even mentioned and Adelram did not seem entirely worried about his safety this was before he gave into his excess completely. He seemed far more concerned that he could not for fill his wish to have our father notice him."

Marthas could tell Silas is thinking he spoke after a few seconds "So what will you do if it comes to that? Asriel had his uses in the past but I would not shed a tear for his death he is still technically a slave after all." Marthas frowned "If it does come to that I will try to convince Adelram to hand Asriel over to me but I doubt he will do it. One time to insult me he said if I wanted Asriel that I can have him when he was in the grips of despair but now? His pride won't allow it." Marthas moved to open the door "Enough of that I need to focus on the task. Salvaging that one into something more." Marthas looked into the room it is dimly lighted he could see an Astartes in the corner sitting wearing a black robe. His face frozen into a grin but Marthas knew that at this moment he is feeling no such thing there is no joy or humour there. Only doubt, regret and shame.

Marthas walked into the room wtih Silas Marthas said "Sebastian." Sebastian looked up he scowled and turned away Marthas raised his hands in a gesture of peace "Easy. I am not here to mock you or to laud you failures over you. I personally believe you can't grow if you don't fail." Sebastian held his place Marthas walked forward "You speak to no one. when people come here they come to shame and humiliate you. You say nothing in turn when they do so."

Marthas continued "I know in your mind the scene is replaying the laughter, the mocking it won't end. I can give you what you crave." Sebastian turned slightly "Can you? What do I want then?" Marthas smiled "Silence." Sebastian looked down slightly "It won't stop. The doubt, the failures, the pain... everything. So much noise.." Marthas reached out his hand "I can make the voices stop. I can make you perfect." Sebastian edged back "Lies! You still seek to mock me! Humiliate me!" Silas Scowled "See useless." Marthas shook his head "You can stay here Sebastian in this dim room the doubt consuming you forever. The sounds of your failures repeating forever more in your mind and the jeers of our brothers at your defeat pounding within your skull."

Marthas stretched out his hand further "or you could come with me. Take it Sebastian I will give you the silence you so desire." Marthas can see Sebastian is unsure he most likely thinks he has an ulterior motive but he knew Sebastian has no other choice. Marthas knows he hates being here and being stuck in this state.

Sebastian reached out his hand slowly. Marthas smiled as Sebastians hand edged closer he gripped Marthas' hand Sebastian said "Make it stop.. Please.." Marthas nodded "I will. Now rise I will take you to the place that will remold you."

Chapter 29

The sky cracks blue as the bird screams for release.

Asriel made his way to the temple he found it odd that Marthas has not decided to give ths abode an actual name. Asriel thought upon it for a moment but decided in the end it matched Marthas' personality he is not a flashy individual that one aspect has not changed.
Asriel found himself at the twin doors, Asriel pushed the doors open as the doors opened a bellow of pink mist erupted from the doors. Asriel slowly walked through as Asriel entered the temple the first thing he saw was large censers hanging from the ceiling swinging in the air releasing a pink mist.

At the back of the temple he saw two statues. One male and another female both looked similar both had flowing long hair with 4 horns sprouting out of the hair. The statues wore somewhat revealing armour but Asriel could tell that Marthas tried to replicate what he saw in the vision. Looking at the statues in their glory Asriel overall preferred Marthas' temple over Ivan's place of worship.

As Asriel was thinking he heard a clash of steel. Two Astartes relentlessly fighting each other their armour looked heavily gashed Asriel wondered how long have they been fighting for. Hooded serfs watched their masters fight ready to attend to their needs if it arises after the duel was done.
Asriel looked around the temple a similar thing was occurring, Asriel did wonder how exactly Marthas' decided to hand out the suits of terminator armour. All he knows is that getting one is a prize that many in the temple seek. Asriel turned his gaze to the first duel he was looking at before watching their blades move through the air was oddly memorising to him.

To Asriel watching the Astartes train he knew that if he fought them now he won't win unless delves deep into the well of power that Meliva provides. The issue is that there is certain risks doing that. As the duel went on Asriel found one of the Astartes diverting his eyes to him as he parried his opponents strike the Astartes quickly turned on his power blade and made a large slash across the breastplate of his opponent.

Asriel heard a grunt from the injured Astartes he looked up "You broke the rules!" The Astartes who was the victor of the duel shrugged "I haven't" he pointed in Asriel's direction. The injured Astartes looked back slightly and hissed "Adelram's pet was not here when we started. Marthas sai-" Asriel watched the argument continue the Astartes who lost his serfs surrounded him clearly concerned. Asriel frowned the one who lost is making excuses he should expect the unexpected. The victor was observant and used it to his advantage anything can happen on the battlefield or even when fighting 1v1.

Normally Marthas' does not have them train with activated weapons unless he is present but in this instance he was. Asriel walked towards them the injured Astartes looked at him "Hurry up and fix it." Asriel nodded "Yes my lord." Meliva coiled in anger she hissed "we should not take such talk from one such as he." Asriel tried to concentrate Meliva's anger made it difficult Asriel hovered his hand over the wound a small purple light erupted from his hand. Asriel noted that the wound is quite deep he is surprised the Astartes took it so well or perhaps he is used to such wounds.
Asriel recalled the time Marthas' made them all train with activated power hammers and maces. The amount of broken bones and limbs he had to reattach that day it consumed all his time that he did not get a chance to visit Noxus.

Asriel slowly sealed the wound the Astartes hissed "Hurry up already!" Asriel grimaced he tried not to be obvious about it "I want to close the wound properly. I can't do it if I hurry." The Astartes grunted in annoyance "If you were my slave I would of flogged you for several hours if you talked back to me in such a fashion."

Asriel frowned as he finished sealing the wound he removed his hand "It is done my lord." The Astartes simply turned away without another word. The Astartes who won the duel shrugged "You want another round? I will win again." Asriel looked at the Astartes he just healed he charged right back into the fray Asriel knew it's most likely he will get injured again.

Asriel looked to the back of the temple he saw a wooden door he suspected that's where Naberius and Sitri are. As Asriel walked over Meliva cooed gently in his mind "You hate him." Asriel shook his head "I am just doing my duty Meliva." Meliva continued to speak gently "Don't deny it you want to see if you can kill one of them. How about instead of chasing useless visions and listening to a cripple we wait for that Astartes to leave and kill him when he is by himself? No one would know." Asriel closed his eyes he whispered to himself "I would."

Meliva sighed in annoyance and grew quiet to Asriel's relief. Asriel made his way to the door he stopped in front of it. Asriel grasped the handle and turned the door handle slowly he opened the door and walked in. Asriel felt conflict he knew that his lord has ordered him not to pursue this path but now he can only walk forward its too late.

Asriel looked around the room slik sheets lined the walls there was also the smell of thick incense within the room. Asriel could see Naberius sitting on the chair. There was also a chair in front of Naberius to Asriel it was like he was expecting someone. Asriel scanned the room again he saw Sitri she is relaxing on a large bed in the corner. Sitri jolted to attention as Asriel entered the room "Oh look Naberius we have a visitor! That's pretty rare isn't it?" Naberius leaned back in the chair "It is! I am quite curious why Asriel has decided to visit us."

Asriel frowned he folded his arms "I am here to ask a favour." Sitri rolled on the bed laughing "Why should we do it? We did our part just like he instructed." Naberius tapped his fingers together "Now, now Sitri/ Asriel would come to us for a good reason he is not such a person that would waste our time." Naberius gestured to Asriel to sit on the chair in front of him. Asriel walked over to the chair and sat down as Asriel sat in the chair he sank slightly into the chair is Asriel noted it was quite comfortable.

Asriel looked to Naberius who is now grinning he said "Right what can we do for you?" Asriel rubbed his neck his mouth felt dry as he spoke "Lord Noxus has terms before he discusses his visions with me. He wishes for me to find a way to close Meliva off to our discussions." Naberius nodded "It seems Noxus is quite intelligent..." Asriel raised his eyebrow "I can see that. To me it seems like you understand the implications of why he wants me to do this."

Naberius smirked "See this is why he is turning to both of you for this." Asriel started to get cross they keep referring to their mysterious master without stating who he is. Asriel wondered if their master can be trusted. "I wonder truly who are both of you working for? What is your stake in me getting to pursue this path?"

Sitri crawled off the bed she walked over to the chair Naberius is sitting on she leaned slightly on the chair. "Our master the great one has a stake in this so we have a stake in this for now let's just focus on what you want." Asriel heard Sitri's words he held onto the word great one it's possible they might be following the orders of a greater shard. Yet Asriel could not think of why one would take such interest in him working with Noxus to unravel is his visions.

Asriel nodded "Fine I will drop it so as you were saying Naberius you are going to show me how to have private discussions with Noxus without Meliva overhearing?" Naberius smiled "Indeed it's quite simple actually and the fact that both you and the one in iron is gifted allows the process to be less straining." Naberius tapped his forehead "First thing is that you connect both of your minds together and create a small area within it that one cannot breach."

Asriel digested the information Naberius just told him thinking about it in theory it makes sense. Asriel stared at Naberius "So how do we do this then?" Naberius held his grin "I shall show you." Naberius eyes turned black like the void of space as Asriel stared it was like Naberius was drawing him in. Drawing his mind forward Asriel pushed back it did not feel right as he did so Naberius said gently "Don't resist."

Hearing those words Asreil tried to relax he felt his vision going dark and after a few seconds Asriel found himself in a strange place all there was is darkness. Asriel touched his chest he could not feel Meliva's influence either. It was oddly gone it was strange to feel such a sensation.
Asriel looked around, suddenly Naberius appeared in front of him Asriel stepped back slightly "Where are we?" Naberius gestured around with his hand "We are having a private discussion we have connected our minds in such a fashion that none can interfere. This technique comes with other benefits. You can change the scenery." Nebarius waved his hand slightly the darkness twisted and distorted the scenery changed Asriel then found himself in a cathedral.

Asriel looked around he could see grand statues of the primarch's far more grand than the statues within the church he used to visit on Athor. Asriel felt confused slightly he wondered why Naberius chose to take him here he could see Naberius staring at a grand mural each piece of it was painted delicately. Asriel could see Naberius staring at it smiling.

Asriel walked over "So why did you bring me here?" Naberius turned around "Well this will be important for your journey." Asriel raised his eyebrow "How? I don't even know where this place is." Naberius nodded "Of course you have never been here but this cathedral is located in a place familiar to you. This church exists to this day on the upper levels of Athor."

As Asriel heard the mention of his home planet it filled him with a odd sense of hatred and disgust "I don't care about my planet Naberius." Naberius nodded "I can see why they have an odd practice that by law those who live in the undercity are not allowed to bare names. The Arbites also heavily enforce this. Of course there are stories of families and people being taken if they try to do such a thing. I assure you those stories are true have you ever wondered why though? They target specific families though even though it's a open secret that many in the populace have odd nicknames or rather.. plain names."

Asriel found his mouth drying slightly he was curious "Why is that the case Naberius?" Naberius gestured to the Mural "As you can see this Mural tells a story of sorts how Athor joined the imperium." Asriel looked the Mural over Asriel could see Naberius is right it is telling a story "I see so I assume you know it?" said Asriel. Naberius nodded in agreement "Indeed I do. So listen."

Naberius pointed at the first picture it showed people in chains and a blacked out figure wearing a gauntlet and wielding a great sword of darkness "The people of Athor the true people touched by the light of the god-emperor were beaten and enslaved by the king of darkness. All the tribes that followed the heretic used these people for their own whims."

Asriel folded his arms he knew it's likely the actual story has been distorted with time still if Naberius wished him to listen he shall do so. Naberius moved to the next picture one slave light pouring upon him prayed with hands reaching out to the sky. Naberius continued the story "One slave who bore most of this light reached out to the sky and prayed for salvation for the god-emperor to send his children to free them from the evil heretics."

Asriel frowned he had a good guess what would happen next, Naberius coughed slightly as he gestured to the next image a giant figure in armour with a halo surrounding their head they scorched the heretical tribes with rays of light Asriel assumed this to be a primarch. Around the primarch were those in similar less embellished armour, they were smaller in stature but towered over the heretical tribes they were stabbing and hacking away at them with shining blades.

Naberius spread his hands out "The slave's plea was heard the god-emperor sent down his holy child to free them. The heretical tribes tried to call foul withcraft but were burned in the light and cast down by the emperor's child." Asriel held his hand out and spoke up "Do they ever mention which legion and which primarch came to this planet?" Naberius turned to Asriel he gave a chilling grin "Clever child." Naberius simply turned to the mural again and moved to the next picture

Asriel rubbed his neck in annoyance he should of known better that he would not answer he still did not understand why Naberius is going through this story with him. Asriel then looked at the next image Naberius was standing before it showed the "King of darkness" at the lower right corner of the picture pointing his sword upwards to the child of emperor. Naberius hackled before speaking "Now. The king of darkness watched the tribes under him being smashed aside by the forces of the god-emperor so he sought to challenge the emperor's child to single combat."
Asriel could not help but laugh slightly he spoke out loud "I assume he got annihilated." Naberius ignored him as he gestured to the second to last image the king of darkness stabbing his sword downwards unto the king of darkness his black blood leaking all over the bottom of the image around the corners of the image were the slaves bowing to the child of the emperor. Naberius sighed "The ex-slaves were freed from the tyranny of the king of darkness he was broken and smashed asunder by the might of the child of the emperor. The child of the emperor returned the planet to their rightful owners and they joined the grand imperium of the god-emperor."

Asriel looked at the last image the child of the god emperor stood with the ex-slaves he held his weapon over a group of people they were not black like the heretical tribes and the king of darkness but grey. This last image made Asriel curious Asriel felt he was letting it show clearly since Naberius turned his head slightly to him grinning "You are curious about the last image?" Asriel nodded "I am I doubt they killed off all of the heretical tribes during the war."

Naberius silently turned back to the mural he said "The child of the god-emperor held his weapon over the children and the young men and women of the heretical tribes. He offered them mercy but in penance their lives and their lands now belong to the rightful owners of the planet and the imperium itself. This was his decree."

Naberius turned to Asriel "So what do you think Asriel?" Asriel was not sure what to think so he asked a question "Are they still alive? The ones spared?" Naberius stroked his chin "In a manner of speaking. They are still alive to this day living in the undercity in a sense."
Asriel felt his heart sinking he asked his next question "So.. why don't they have names then? Also how come the undercity church's don't have this mural?" Naberius smiled "Considering how they named themselves back then I could see why they would take it away. Now the mural question? You will find out.." Asriel frowned "You did not answer my question." Naberius shrugged "The Mural is a bonus Asriel. I have explained how to do this technique and the benefits of it."

Asriel looked around the cathedral was now bleeding away Asriel blinked he was not sitting in the chair in front of Naberius. Sitri looked to both of them rapidly "What did you show him Naberius? Asriel looks clearly.. uncomfortable." Asriel rose from his seat slowly "I thank you for the lesson. One more thing It's clear there is a reason why there is such a reverence for primarchs on my planet? Even the church I visited had statues of them, I assume the people of Athor have no idea who "saved" them correct?"

Naberius nodded "Indeed that is the case now you have work to do don't you?" Asriel looked away slightly and then back to Naberius he nodded "I do. Thank you for your time." Asriel walked out of the room and entered the temple again. As he did so Meliva came rushing into his mind "What did he tell you? What did you see?" Asriel folded his arms "Wouldn't you like to know?" Meliva hissed Asriel could feel her retreating back slowly.

Asriel looked at the exit and nodded he indeed had work to do.

Sooo some history on Athor. What do you think?

I liked the background on athor, your pretty good at foreshadowing whats coming next. One thing though is that you might of overplayed your hand a little with the night dreams asriel is having haha. Also asriel just seems a little too oblivious during this whole process. I feel like he should have more questions and concerns he might be being used. Also i feel like he should be trusting meliva a bit more... then again she seems to have her own "nightly" agenda haha! good stuff man.

 Dayknight wrote:


I liked the background on athor, your pretty good at foreshadowing whats coming next. One thing though is that you might of overplayed your hand a little with the night dreams asriel is having haha. Also asriel just seems a little too oblivious during this whole process. I feel like he should have more questions and concerns he might be being used. Also i feel like he should be trusting meliva a bit more... then again she seems to have her own "nightly" agenda haha! good stuff man.

Oh yeah there are many times when writing where I feel I might be too obvious about certain events(you have no idea how many times I rewrote certain bits) or what the characters are dealing with I am trying to balance it out. It's not easy and indeed there is a specific reason why Noxus wants to discuss things with Asriel in private and partly Asriel does not want to admit he might be losing control. The reason Noxus gives is pretty huge and I am trying to plan how Asriel will react to it.

Even if it's been one hundred years the cage event is still pretty fresh in his mind and Asriel overall does not really trust neverborn his relationship with Meliva is more or a less a give and take sort of thing also it's the whole church event that leads him to why he can't trust her at all. The reason he does not think much of it because really he has eaten people in the past being possessed comes with weird dreams also.

I do appreciate the feedback though. I will take it on board!

Your a fantastic author shinros you really have a gift for writing. I try to stay away from this page so i can read a solid block of chapters but you make it difficult!

 Dayknight wrote:

Your a fantastic author shinros you really have a gift for writing. I try to stay away from this page so i can read a solid block of chapters but you make it difficult!

Thanks I appreciate your words! I got plenty of time tomorrow so more will come!

Nice! Well now we know what happened. It will definitely be interesting to see what Noxus has to say.

Chapter 29

The ones in crimson red shall spread their colour over all that is in sight.

Asriel made his way over to Noxus room he felt ready like he is making some progress at last. Finally he can now start unravelling Noxus' visions. Asriel stopped in front of Noxus' door he entered the code and walked in. Asriel walked up to the dreadnought he had his journal in hand he looked up to Noxus "Lord Noxus are you awake?"

Noxus twisted the fists of the dreadnought "I am. Is my first term met?" Asirel nodded "Indeed I have the means to discuss your visions privately." As Asirel said this Noxus gripped the bulky fingers together "Right. Now the second do I have your word? If I catch wind that you told someone..." Asriel nodded again slowly "I won't tell a soul not until we are both satisfied." Noxus responded joyfully "Good. Now how are we going to speak?"

Asriel smiled "We will join our minds and create a space. The space can be altered and changed so whatever you saw in your visions you can show me." Noxus lowered his fists to Asriel he seemed to be relaxing "Good, I assume you know what you are doing?" Asriel rubbed his neck "Well... yes."

Noxus sighed "You don't, anyway just hurry up and do it." Asriel walked forward he raised his hand to Noxus' sarcophagus. Asriel tried to remember that feeling he had with Naberius. Asriel felt Meliva coiling "Think of what you are about to do Asriel. There is not going back after this!" Asriel tried to block out Meliva's voice Asriel knew it was too late for that. Asriel could hear Noxus grunting "What.. are you doing?!" Asriel spoke firmly "Don't resist lord Noxus just let it happen!"

Noxus fell quiet Asriel felt his vision darkening. He closed his eyes then opened them he was now in a familiar empty space. He looked around wondering if it worked. Asriel turned and suddenly Noxus was in front of him he was in his power armour he was whole. Noxus was not wearing a helmet either. Noxus looked at himself in annoyance "Is this some kind of bad joke?" Asriel held his hands together "I assume this is how you see yourself or what you wish to go back to."

To Asriel Noxus looked incredibly sad, Asriel tried to smile "Well. We are here how should we begin?" Noxus looked up "Where do you wish to start?" Asriel held his chin thinking he looked to his hand and thought of his journal he needed it.

Asriel focused and after a second he felt the weight of his book in his hand he held it up to Noxus. Asriel held his grin "We got a lot to do my lord." Noxus looked around "You said you this space can be altered?" Asriel nodded "Yes so you should be able to conjure your vision. Just think of it and adjust the space."

Asriel flicked through the book "Well how about with start with this one? Darkness rises in one's mind?" Noxus frowned "How about you pick another?" Asriel folded his arms "My lord I think this one is pretty significant I learned how to do this so we can speak privately." Asriel could see Noxus clenching his hands "Are you sure you want to see?" Asriel nodded "I do."

Noxus raised his hands to the darkness it twisted and changed "I assume that passage refers to this." Asriel looked around he could see they were now on the ship. Asriel scratched his head "Right the ship. I wonder what you saw here?" Noxus gestured "You will see in a moment. I pray this is just a mere possibility." Out of the darkness he saw a serf running screaming for his life after a few seconds Asriel saw something that shook him to the very core. He saw himself holding his head twitching as he ran after the serf his eyes black like the void horns sprouting out of his head. Asriel could see himself gripping his head he roared and dropped on all fours and chased the serf.

Asriel leaped upon the serf dragging him down tearing him to pieces devouring him. Asriel felt oddly cold "I-I see. This confirms it then." Noxus turned "Confirms what?" Asriel stepped back slightly, Noxus took a step towards him "So you have already been doing this then? You are that far gone?"

Asriel shook his head "I still have control! I just have to figure out how to make these... out goings stop..." Noxus creased his brow "So when do they happen? How often?" Asriel looked away "I have been getting strange dreams. Dreams were the norm I thought nothing of it but lately..." Noxus turned his head slightly to the serf "When I saw this I knew right away the neverborn in your head can't be trusted. What comes next..."

Asriel perked up "What do you mean what comes next?" Noxus folded his arms "I assume there is a next passage correct?" Asriel turned the page slowly Asriel spoke slowly "Darkness seeks vengeance for all that comes to it as it seeks to devour all that is sin." Noxus mused "Never knew I could be poetic at times." Asriel looked up "I assume it has something to do with the warband?" Noxus nodded "Indeed it does. Tell me are you able to handle what I am going to show you?"

Asriel nodded slowly "I am ready. Show me." Noxus raised his hand again the image changed they were now on a battlefield it looked to be a city. Gunfire is pouring in different directions. Asriel saw his lord running forward and he was behind him. Asriel could not help but feel slightly happy he learned how to kill effectively because he wanted to be beside him in battle. He wanted to be useful.

Asriel watched himself and his lord running forward his black cloak bellowing moving unnaturally in the wind. Asriel watched himself drawing his sword but what happened next caused a giant pit to envelop his heart. Despair began to envelop his whole being Asriel could not even see the movement as he watched himself plunge his blade straight through his lords neck.

Asriel watched himself twist the blade, his lord did not see it coming he did not expect it. Asriel watched as he simply crumpled to the ground blood pooling from his neck. Asriel watched himself twitch slightly after the deed was done Asriel saw himself releasing a distorted laugh. A mocking laugh.

Asriel's mouth felt dry he looked up at Noxus "It's impossible. It's a lie." Noxus shrugged "It's what I saw." Asriel ground his teeth in anger "It's a lie! It must be a lie! I would never do that! I would never..." Noxus walked towards him and poked his head Asriel rubbed it slightly annoyed Asriel said "Why did you do that?!" Noxus sighed "From what I understand this is a possibility yes?"

Asriel nodded "Well yes.. visions show possibilities. I don't like this one..." Noxus nodded "Now you can see why I did not speak of it out loud. How would the neverborn in your head react? What would it do? Still now that you know of this possiblity what will you do about it?"
Asriel looked away "I don't know.. removing a neverborn is a difficult process. But I could..." Noxus narrowed his eyes "You can't die until I am satisfied Asriel! Don't you even dare think of doing that! If you do that you are breaking the second term!" Asriel gripped his journal tightly he hissed "What can I do then?! I have no other choice!"

Noxus shook his head "I assume you have the next part? How about we look at that." Asriel looked down at the book he sighed "Alright." Asriel flicked through the pages of his journal "This passage lord Noxus you spoke loudly. You shouted and your voice distorted." Asriel fingered the passage and read it out loud "A shining sword pirces the darkness to set one free." Asriel closed his journal"Does that mean anything?"

Noxus stroked his chin he waved his hand the scenery changed again they were underground it looked to be a hive city. There are several exposed pipes with water pouring out of them. There is a fence to keep people from falling over the edge. Asriel walked over to the fence he looked down he could see a large water pipe the top of it is exposed, water is still passing through it..

Noxus walked to the fence he stood with him looking over the fence as well "So do you recognise this place?" Asriel shrugged "It's a hive city that's clear enough but this looks like to be the lower level." Noxus nodded "Right the important part should be coming up shortly we should turn about now." Asriel turned with Noxus again he saw himself he had men and women in black trench coats with him pointing guns at a group. They also wore hoods with a gasmask.

Asriel squinted his eyes the group they were pointing their guns at he could not see them they were covered in a bright light. Noxus shrugged "Don't bother I could not make them out either." Asriel stopped squinting his eyes after a few seconds a bright blue sword flicked out. Asriel watched himself charge relentlessly at the person who bore the blade. The wielder of the glowing blade readied themselves. The men and women with him opened fire.

What happened next shocked Asriel he literally watched himself allow the person he is facing to impale him through the gut with the blade. Asriel heard a chilling scream his voice and the voice of Meliva's were distinct they were not mixed together they were both in pain. He can hear Meliva howling in anger "You traitor! You fool! Look at what you have done!"

The scene distorted it twisted until it eventually bled away into darkness. Asriel felt anxious he wondered what the significance of that vision was he repeated Noxus' words "a shining sword pierces the darkness to set one free..." Asriel frowned "I think I saw my death." Noxus shook his head "Well considering I said this will set you free it could mean anything."

Asirel looked up to Noxus "how? The only way to remove it is to die or a ritual. If Meliva is removed through a ritual I won't be the same anymore.." Noxus stroked his chin "Who is to say death has to be the end? If you recall Adelram died once and came back." Asriel looked away "I am not favoured Noxus it's a gamble." Noxus nodded "Indeed it is, think of it this way instead from my understanding you were sent to Zatos first. It could be the dark prince himself or a neverborn that spirited you away but out of everyone you got there first. So you must be important."

Asriel listened to Noxus' words he thought on them for a moment he nodded his head "Right then I have to seek out the one with the shining blade then. I can't die until then." Noxus folded his arms "Right do you have anymore questions?" Asriel went through his book "I do. at times when you are sleeping you mention a tree?" Noxus tapped his chin with his finger "Ah that. the interesting aspect of this vision the more I see it the background of where the tree is located is revealed. I will start with the first."

The darkness swirled Asriel blinked he found himself standing on grass it was a vibrant green a great tree was in front of him. Asriel looked up to the tree it bore fruit Asriel could see one looked clean and pristine, one shone with an unnatural light, the third bore tiny gnaw holes and the fourth seemed to be covered in a small amount of blood. Asriel gesture to the tree "I assume this tree is related to the gods?" Noxus nodded "Indeed. I assume this is the case considering I keep seeing this tree I assume it's important. Still what happens next will surprise you."

Asriel looked around it could see the background of the tree is still in darkness it shifted Asriel could now hear water. Pipes began to appear pouring water around the tree filling up a empty pit around the tree. The pipes look familiar to Asriel they are similar to the pipes found in the lower levels of the hive city. The issue was the water was clean. Pristine no muck no bits of waste lined the water.

Asriel looked to Noxus who stared at the tree in silence "So... I think this tree is located in a hive city. At a lower level to my surprise." said Asirel. Noxus turned his head slightly to Asriel "you are observant the issue is where this tree is located Asriel. Have you ever seen a tree growing in the lower levels of a hive city?" Asriel looked up at the tree again in a small amount of wonder for a second Asriel saw something shifting in the leaves. Asriel walked towards the tree to Noxus' surprise "What is it?" said Noxus.

Asriel squinted his eyes "I think I saw something..." Asriel tried to spot the movement again the leaves shifted he moved his eyes to the location he could see a bird with mismatched blue feathers pecking at one of the fruits. It actually picked at the fruit with the gnaw holes. The bird moved again to the fruit covered in a small amount of blood it pecked the fruit. It kept doing this to each of them but oddly enough the bird never approached the fruit that looked clean and pristine.

Asriel scratched his head "Noxus there is a bird pecking at the fruit." Noxus raised his eyebrow "I never noticed a bird in this vision before..." Noxus walked over he stared upwards "I personally wonder what is the significance of this bird." Asriel flicked through his journal "Well Lord Noxus there are times you mention a bird." Asriel pointed to a passage "Both stars slowly rise as they seek to kill the bird in the sky." Noxus sighed in annoyance "I wish visions were more literal. It seems that my sleep talking is filling out some gaps though." Noxus yawned "Right let me show you the vision that corresponds with that."

Noxus yawned again as he raised his hands, Asriel shifted slightly "Are you okay my lord?" As the scenery distorted Noxus rubbed his eyes lightly "I feel tired Asriel. I don't know why." Asriel stared at Noxus clearly concerned, Noxus noticed him staring "Enough focus on the what we are about to see." Asriel nodded, Asriel looked around to see they were in space.

Asriel looked up he could see thousands of stars what was significant was two were together covered in darkness that contrasted the bright stars. Over the two dark stars Asriel saw a familiar bird flying overhead looking downwards towards the two black stars. when Asriel gazed at the eyes of the bird he got the feeling the bird seemed annoyed or was looking down dismissively to the two black stars.

Asriel continued to stare the birds eye moved it looked directly at him. Asriel's heart skipped a beat he turned his head to Noxus slowly "I think the bird just looked at me." Noxus raised his eyebrow "Looked at you? How?" Noxus stared upwards at the bird after a moment he rubbed his arm "I can see what you mean.. I think it's staring at us." Asriel looked up towards the bird again the bird began glowing with power it released a shrill scream. Asriel covered his ears the sound was increasing it felt like his brain was going to explode. Noxus grunted in pain "This has never happened before!"

Asriel dropped to his knees "Change it! Change it quickly!" Asriel could feel his nose has started to bleed blood began dribbling down. Noxus fell to one knee "To what?!" Asriel looked towards Noxus "Anything!" Noxus moved his hand the scenery changed again this time they were in the air looking over a city. Asriel got up he wiped his nose "What was that?" Noxus rose rubbing his forehead "I think that bird tried to kill us. Now we know this is important."

Noxus yawned "Let this be the last. After that encounter with the bird I feel far more tired..." Asriel nodded he looked at the city he furrowed his brows "Lord Noxus do you know which city this is?" Noxus turned his gaze to the city "It feels familiar but I can't put my finger on it." Asriel frowned as Asriel said "It's Athor...." Noxus perked up "That backwater? It's an odd planet many of the slaves we captured had no names."

Asriel looked at the city the mural Naberius showed him replayed in his mind. Asriel frowned as he said to Naberius the truth is likely to be distorted. Still there might be some grain of truth in there. Considering Noxus vision bought him here along with Naberius going through the mural Asriel had a good guess the focus of everything that is happening in Noxus' visions is linked to Athor.

Asriel sighed "We have to somehow get back to this planet. We are in the system the issue is how we are going to get there." Noxus gave a long yawn "How about you convince Adelram to take us there?" Asriel cast his head down slightly "what could I tell him to make him go to my home planet?" Noxus shrugged "I dunno he still seems to like you figure it out." Noxus looked up Asriel wondered what Noxus was looking at so he followed suit. Asriel saw numbers appearing in the sky Asirel spoke the numbers out loud "66224493?" Asriel turned to the Noxus "Do those numbers mean anything?"

Noxus sighed he shrugged "I don't know. I assume it's important otherwise they would not appear." Asriel scratched the back of his head thinking "Is there anything else to this vision?" Noxus shook his head "No this is it." The vision bled away into darkness after a few moments. Asriel folded his arms "This discussion has been enlightening. Me losing control, the tree, a bird trying to murder us and learning my home planet is possibly important in all of this. We have a lot of work to do don't we Lord Noxus?" Asriel could see Noxus seemed to be drifting off trying to keep his eyes open.

Noxus closed his eyes he fell forward and melted into the darkness. Asriel blinked he was now in Noxus' room. Asriel looked around wondering what just happened he cast his vision upwards towards Noxus' sarcophagus. If Asriel listened carefully he could hear Noxus is sleeping.

Asriel could not help but smile, Asriel walked out of Noxus' room. He looked at his journal he can't exactly pen down his thoughts there is a possibility that Meliva would get a hint of their discussion. Especially the vision of him losing control. As Asriel said this to himself he could feel Meliva moving "So I wonder did he have anything useful to say?" Asriel tried not to get annoyed he tried to avoid questioning Meliva "He did. I can't tell you I made a promise after all."

Meliva hissed in annoyance "what could he possibly say that you would keep from me? If you endanger us..." Asriel frowned "you'll do what Meliva? What would you do?" Meliva retreated back Asriel could feel Meliva is angered slightly. Asriel sighed he made his way back to his room.

As Asriel entered his room he sat at his desk thinking, he turned to his bed wondering if he should go to sleep. After Noxus' vision he decided against it he had to remain awake until this situation can be dealt with. Asriel wanted to avoid that dark future at all costs.
Asriel knew that being possessed he required less sleep. The issue is how long it will take to work through Noxus' visions Asriel thought on using biomancy to alleviate the sleep deprivation to a degree at least. Asriel leaned back in his chair thinking of what to do next.

Chapter 30

The sword of corruption shall pierce the prophet

Adelram sat at the piano practising, he found when the spirits rise that is when he always makes a mistake he found it frustrating. It took almost all his self control to prevent himself from smashing the piano keys in annoyance. Camila has taken note of when to stop when he makes a mistake. Camila touched his shoulder pad "Adelram you will get it right I know it." Adelram looked at Camila she has changed since they left Zatos. Her beauty compared to Isabella's and Isira was soft not forcibly moulded and changed.

These days when she plays her violin a song just for him he finds all the frustration bleeding away. The hole he is starting to feel in his heart is filled when she is here. Adelram took a breath "It's fine Camila that's enough for today. Go and rest." Camila bowed "Yes my lord."
Adelram watched her leave each of her steps light her whole form was delicate like fragile glass when she is near you want to avoid touching her due to possibly breaking that form. When Camila finally left the room Adelram sighed as the hole within his heart began consuming him again.

This has started to happen since they raided their first planet after Zatos. Adelram rose from the piano seat his mind drifted to his servants Isabella and Isira. Both try so hard for his attention it moves him and now he finds it oddly amusing. Adelram then thought of Asriel he has remained the same since Zatos. He expects nothing and wants nothing.

Adelram found it displeasing everyone is now consumed in their passions. Adelram thought on his order he gave to Asriel. Adelram spoke out loud "Asriel is loyal. He will do what I say it's his defining trait." Adelram grinned thinking of what Asriel would come up with the grin did not last long Adelram thought of a possibility that he might not be doing as he said.

Adelram felt a tinge of doubt, Adelram shook his head "He will impress me. He always does. He won't..." Adelram mused on what he was just about to say he sighed "Perhaps I shall talk to her. Lily might have something to say." Adelram walked out of his chambers. Adelram had Lily's room largely segregated from everyone else. No would dare to touch her due to fear of what he might do to them.

Adelram reached the large door he pressed a button under a small screen. Lily's face soon appeared she smiled. Adelram heard the door unlocking the door slid open as Adelram walked into the room he saw Lily moving back to her chair. The chair sat in front of her desk mirror she began brushing her hair. She stopped and turned her head slightly "Since you are here Adelram you wish to talk about something? It's why I had the chair here prepared." Lily gestured to the large chair with her comb she smiled "My grandfather is not here anymore so I will be your ear instead."

Adelram slowly walked to the chair he sat down slowly and leaned back "I recall you had my bed made for me as well the one I used on Zatos." Lily nodded "Yes can't have you sleeping on the ground or switching off half your brain it's not healthy." Lily hummed as she continued to comb her hair. Adelram had to control himself Lily's hair has grown long it was scented also. Adelram wanted to just reach and.. Lily turned Adelram found himself reaching for her hair he leaned back slowly.

Adelram coughed "Yes I wish to talk about something." Lily returned to combing her hair "What about?" Adelram tried to think of how to frame this question Adelram licked his lips "What do you think of Asriel?" Lily stopped combing her hair she placed the comb on the desk "You mean you want to know how you yourself feel about him?" Adelram frowned, Lily chuckled slightly "very well.. how do I feel about him... Asriel is reliable."

Adelram found himself holding his frown "Anything else?" Lily shook her head "no. that's it really." Adelram sighed "reliable in what way Lily?" Lily gave a small smile "If you want to know to me Asriel is the sort of person you feel would always be there no matter what. He would protect you with his up most ability." Adelram creased his brow "I don't require protection Lily." Lily nodded "Well yes since Zatos you have started to rely on people less your servants now exist for your entertainment."

Adelram mused "entertainment... I see." Lily turned towards him slightly and smiled "You simply found something better. There is nothing wrong with using something better you did it in the past." Adelram raised his eyebrow "I have done this in the past? What do you mean?" Lily tapped her chin "do you recall Amethyst? Soon as you found Asriel you fawned over him I expected Amethyst to be jealous."
Adelram was taken a back when he heard her name but now? When he heard her name he felt nothing no regret or sadness. Adelram did recall when Asriel first entered his circle Amethyst did admit she was jealous. Adelram looked into Lily's eyes she is plain with him just like the old captain. Adelram relaxed "so I expect Asriel is jealous of camila right now?"

Lily shook her head "Now here comes the difference. Asriel is simply not one to get jealous and there I think lies the problem I think you have with him." Adelram mouthed Lily's words slowly "the problem I have with him..." Lily nodded "Camila largely has it all that you want. The looks, kindness, fragile innocence and most importantly her music. I imagine Isira and Isbaella are going at lengths to capture your attention but not Asriel. He is the odd one."

Adelram rested his elbow on the arm of the chair and leaned his face on his fist "So how can I make Asriel change then?" Lily shrugged "Oddly enough he was on Zatos for 100 years he largely hasn't changed in personality I don't expect him to change now. Asriel largely in your eyes is regressing becoming static while everyone else around you is pushing forward. Even the Astartes are pushing harder than ever before."

Lily opened her hands and looked down to them "It's why my people believe in eugenics my grandfather told me in the past people would drop suitors at the bat of the eye if they found someone better or they found something wrong in their partners when they examined their genetics. What traits do they posses? Are they smart? Are they beautiful? Do they have any disabilities or weaknesses in their bloodline?" Lily turned her head slightly to Adelram "As I said you found someone better. Asriel used to be the best for what you need, but now? That is no longer the case and there is nothing wrong with that."

Hearing Lily say that made Adelram feel better he nodded "I see. I thank you for your time Lily. I have a good idea of what I will do." Adelram rose from his seat he turned as he did so Lily called out "Wait! Wait just a moment." Adelram turned to face Lily "What is it?" Adelram watched Lily opening her desk drawer she pulled out scissors she picked up the end of her hair and cut a piece off she tied it in a small ribbon. Lily then held out the lock of hair towards him.

Adelram felt his mouth drying he reached for it slowly and took it from her hand. Adelram silently turned away and left her room. Adelram looked down to the lock of hair in his hand he bought it to his nose and took a small whiff he breathed out a groan of pleasure. Adelram dropped the lock of hair in his pouch. Adelram grinned he had an idea of how to handle Asriel.

Asriel sat at his desk he has been in discussion with Noxus for a week now Meliva is none the wiser of their discussions to her irritation. She has also been pressing wondering why he has not slept in a week. Asriel rubbed his forehead slightly he could feel a small headache he imagined if he was not using biomancy he would feel the full effects of the sleep deprivation. Asriel could handle a small headache.
Still what troubled him most of all whenever they try to look at a vision correlating with the bird. The bird attacks attempting to harm them or even outright kill. Asriel had a feeling something or someone is trying to keep them from finding out the truth. Overall what this confirms to Asriel is that Noxus is seeing something important.

Asriel then heard a beep from his desk drawer he opened it to see his datapad beeping. Asriel picked it up looking at the screen he could see his lord wishes to see him. Asriel was not sure how to feel about it Noxus' vision of him impaling his blade from his neck still haunted him.

Asriel slowly rose from his chair and made his way out of his room. Asriel walked the halls making his way to his lords chamber. Asriel looked at the double doors he pushed them slowly as he entered he could see his lord drinking a glass of wine he stood in the middle of the room. Swirling the glass.

Asriel approached slowly "My lord." His lord turned he smiled "Asriel. Good.. very good. I have been thinking." Asriel fiddled his fingers together he wondered what he was going to say. Asriel watched his lord placing the glass down on one of the small tables. He walked towards him and held both his shoulders and leaned down "You know I haven't given you a reward for Zatos."

Asriel blinked rapidly under his helmet "A reward?" Adelram nodded "Indeed. You are not base like the other slaves and serfs on the ship. I had to think carefully." His lord grinned "we shall raid Athor." Asriel felt his heart skipping a beat he wondered of the odds of this happening. His lord held his grin "I can see you are excited..." His lord leaned back and stood upright "I will have Isira making moves to corrupt people on the lower levels and Isbaella on the higher levels."

Asriel nodded slowly, his master frowned "You are no longer happy Asriel?" Asriel shook his head quickly "No! I am just surprised! That it..." His lord stroked his chin "I see.. anyway when Isira and Isabella have done their work we will attack the upper levels. Jedrick will handle the lower. You will be with me Asriel We will torture, maim and kill anyone who gets in our way. It will be enjoyable!"

Asriel felt cold he gulped Asirel felt if he said yes it would be the death of Lord Adelram. His master who gave him everything he has now.

Asriel could see his lord seemed to be growing upset "You don't like my plan Asriel?" A tinge of anger began lining his features "After I thought of this for you?" Asriel took a breath "I have a request my lord." His master raised his eyebrow "A request? What is it?" Asriel spoke slowly "I wish to join Isira on the lower levels."

Asriel could see he is surprised with his request his lord said "interesting... you never requested you always asked me if I need something. Very well." Asriel gave a small bow "I thank you my lord."

His lord folded his arms "we will begin approaching the planet soon. We will remain out of scanner range I will have Lily pilot a thunderhawk and have the three of you taken to the planet. Lily has the skills to avoid any escorts or ships. You will be landed near a exposed pipe outside of the hive city. It leads into the lower level it's how we had Isira infiltrate the hive city in the past. Considering how such pipes are never fixed it should still be there."

Asriel nodded "Should I prepare to leave now?" His lord smiled "Yes you should prepare. we will reach our destination in a few hours. You are dismissed Asriel."

Asriel bowed again and turned to leave he clenched his fist he swore to himself that his lord will survive.

If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.

lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.

I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.

 shinros wrote:

lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.

I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.

The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:

lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.

I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.

The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.

Interesting since in 40k people change fate all the time but the outcome is not always good. Or they get something they dont expect. Hence why people follow tzeentch or the eldar who seek to manipulate destiny. Thank you for this post certain elements of the story will change now.

I got a few good ideas.

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:

lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.

I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.

The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.

I would argue for a different interpretation. I clearly remember him speaking of seeing time in the 4th dimension as a series of valleys and mountains and the nexus point of decisions. I'd further argue against it with the third book. as leto 2 comments that his father knew what to do but left it up to his son to do it

 Dayknight wrote:

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:

lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.

I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.

The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.

I would argue for a different interpretation. I clearly remember him speaking of seeing time in the 4th dimension as a series of valleys and mountains and the nexus point of decisions. I'd further argue against it with the third book. as leto 2 comments that his father knew what to do but left it up to his son to do it

Man this book sounds mighty interesting and thanks for the info! The story is going to be a bit more dark now. Perhaps messing with timelines and fate carries heavy consequences.

Chapter 31

The people of darkness rise as they are stained crimson red

Asriel was in his room putting together his things he strapped a utility belt around his waist. Asriel then wrapped his cloak around his shoulders Asriel looked at his helmet resting on the desk unfortunately he could not take it with him. Asriel touched it lightly with two fingers thinking of him and how he would react to raiding their old home. Asriel smiled "he would most likely be oever the moon..."
Asriel wanted to take the helmet with him but he had no idea how normal people would react to a skull helmet and with his cloak he can easily make it appear as a simple cloak or scarf.

Asriel readied himself the tree is likely to be on the lower levels of Athor and the wielder of the shining sword is also there. The added bonus is that he will be far away from his lord if he could solve the possession situation before the actual raid comes upon the world would be even better.

Asriel sheathed a few knives into his belt and a pistol after that he left his room. He walked to the docking bay area he saw someone else walking towards the docking bay it was Isabella. Asriel looked Isbaella up and down she wore a black dress her face looked lightly oiled and her hair was combed back she smiled "how interesting.." Asriel raised his eyebrow "What is?" Isabella gently touched his cheek "what are you planning? Isira was livid that you wished to go with her."

Asriel pushed away Isabella's hand "I have my reasons Lady Isabella." Isabella gave him a coy smile "so.. Athor I hear that is your home." Asriel frowned "It was my home" Isabella chuckled "not fond of it I take it? I can see why when Lord Adelram told me we are going there I decided to do some background checks on the planet." When Isabella said that it drew Asriel's interest the only thing he knew of his home is the undercity and the disdain the people on upper levels had for them.

Isabella tapped her cheek "stories of numbered men and women smuggling themselves up to the middle layer seeking a better life. They of course become poor and go straight to begging. Some are picked up by nobles who are kind and virtuous they are taken to their mansions to live a wonderful life." Asriel could not help but cringe at that "I assume they are never seen again?" Isabella nodded "Indeed. The nobles on Athor are quite.. shall we say dirty?"

Asriel scoffed slightly "so they are like you then?" Isabella moved closed to him "why are you being that way? You were such a gentleman when you met me..." Asriel sighed he spoke firmly "enough I am not interested." Isabella pouted and moved back to her old position "I wonder Asriel are you even interest-" Asriel scowled as he cut her off "you know it gets annoying when people call me boring or question me on that. I tell you what how would you feel after being violated and "handled" by neverborn? Oh yes you haven't really seen one yet have you? Keep your opinions to yourself."

Isabella fell silent, but Asriel knows she would not relent still looking at Isabella he knows nobles would jump at the chance to make her their wife or mistress. Hence why time and time again she easily infiltrates the nobility twisting them inside out. Honestly Asriel could not help by smile slightly the nobles of Athor would get what they deserve.

The hall eventually ended and it lead into the docking bay area Asriel looked up to the thunderhawk. Isira was there talking with his lord one thing that stood out is that his lord is holding a small black box. Asriel shifted his gaze to Isira he could see Isira is clearly upset.

As Asriel walked over with Isabella, Isira flicked her head in his direction Asriel noted her skin was now milky white Asriel assumed Isira made moves to change it for this task. Isira hissed at Asriel "what are you playing at Asriel?!" Asriel ignored Isira's whining "My lord I am ready to leave." His lord nodded he turned towards Isira "Isira enough. Asriel is coming with you or do you wish to displease me?" Isira voice died she looked away "No.."

Asriel watched his lord gesture to the ramp of the thunderhawk "Lily is waiting to take off. How you bring corruption to the lower and upper levels is up to you. Now before you go I have something for the three of you." Asriel watched his lord open the small black box there were three sliver bracelets with an embedded pink gem. As his lord handed them out he said "The bracelet has three functions, the first will allow me to contact you and vice versa. The gem will glow when I want to contact you. Simply press your finger on the gem for a few seconds and my image will appear and if you wish to contact me? Say these keywords while pressing your finger on the gem bel'nar." Isira nodded "is contacting you obvious? Any bright lights? Eldritch fire?"

Asriel looked at the bracelet and wondered the same thing they have to be careful when they use it since it's made with sorcery. Asriel could see his master nodding "Yes it's quite... showy so be carefully where you use it. Now the second function? It allows me to use your five senses with a certain keyword. Just say these words pho'nur and it should activate. Now the third? It will notify me if you die. So I can plan accordingly if such an event occurs."

Isira held her gaze to the bracelet as she put it on "we won't die. we won't fail my lord." Asriel watched his lord nod "see that you don't." Asriel silently placed his bracelet on for some reason he found it hard to put it on. What If confronting the person who wields the shining blade leads to his death? What would his lord think? How would he feel? Asriel closed his eyes as he forced the bracelet on. He had to focus his lord's life is far more important.

Asriel looked at Isabella she placed the bracelet on her wrist but she seemed to also admire the jewerly work upon it.

Asriel noted that as his lord walked away with a swish of his black robe he left without another word coming from his lips Asriel watched as he vanished into the darkness of the hall. Still another thought played across Asriel's mind he wished he could talk with Noxus a bit more but at least he had some information to go on. Asriel looked down to his journal he had to change the cover to something less suspicious it's clear that people would react badly to the normal cover. Even though he has not penned anything so far Asriel has committed most of their discussions to memory. Asriel decided that he will try to spot anything that corresponds to one of the passages written in his journal.

Asriel heard Isabella and Isira walking up the bay breaking his concentration. Asriel readied himself as he did so Meliva spoke "I don't know what you are planning you had the perfect opportunity to join our master in bringing suffering to the populace yet you chose this." Asriel ignored her to Meliva's annoyance "fine ignore me. I am only trying to seek what is best for us.." Asriel ignored Meliva again he focused on the task at hand as he walked onto the thunderhawk.

Looking around Asirel could see Isira seated clearly annoyed she looked up to him "I will handle the work. You will follow me. Do you understand? I won't have you endangering the task given to us." Asriel sighed "very well. I will follow your lead." Isira eyed him carefully "good."

Asriel heard the ramp being retracted and bay door closing Lily called out "We are leaving! Everyone get ready!" Asriel seated himself so did Isabella. Asriel felt the thunderhawk moving smoothly it was moving too smooth for Asriel's liking. Asriel called out "Is everything okay Lily?!" Lily hissed "I am concentrating! Not now!"

Asriel fell quiet considering they had to pass escort ships and other larger variants Asriel imagined the ride to be far more rocky or perhaps Lily is just that good. Asriel sat in his seat for what felt like an age eventually he felt the thunderhawk landing. Lily walked into the seating area and wiped her brow "I did my part now it's your turn."

Lily pressed a button on the side near the bay area the door opened revealing a cold hard plain of dead grass. The ramp came out and dug itself into the ground. Asriel rose from his seat and nodded to Lily "don't worry we will complete our task." Asriel exited the thunderhawk he looked around he has never seen the outside of the hive city. Due to the pollution the soil is hard and the grass is dead but he felt odd.
Asriel could not understand what emotion he was feeling right now it was not happiness since he only had bad memories of his old home. Asriel tried to place words to what he was feeling was it sadness? Anger? Or maybe even regret? Asriel shook his head he cursed he knew that it can't be regret what did he have to regret? His new home is better. His new family is better. Asriel held his chest "the people of this planet will suffer and die. That is what I want." Asriel said under his breath. As Asriel said these words to himself he felt the strange emotion dissipating.

Asriel heard Isira and Isabella stepping down the ramp Asriel turned. Isira had a smug smile "how do you feel being home after all these years?" Asriel shrugged "this place is not my home anymore. We are here to ruin this place and I will enjoy when we do so."

Isira gestured to a pipe unlike the others there is no liquid or pollution coming out of it "That pipe leads to the lower levels. There are many lifts in the lower level that are forgotten and unused we will take one to the undercity." Isira shifted her gaze to Isabella "you will ride the lift for a single level more than us it will take you to the middle lair." Isabella gave Isira a small smile, Asriel could see it annoyed Isira greatly.
As Isira was about to say something Lily stepped out onto the ramp "Well I am leaving now I assume all of you know what you are doing?" Isira turned annoyed "Yes now let us get to work!" Lily shrugged and entered the thunderhawk the ramp retracted and the bay door closed the thunderhawk lifted off kicking up dust.

Asriel watched the thunderhawk leave he took a deep breath he wondered where this path will lead and whether it will lead to the conclusion he wanted. Asriel hoped it will end well it has to. Asriel turned and walked towards the pipe leading into darkness he turned his head to Isira and Isabella "shall we go?"

Chapter 32

The sword shall be thrown into a arena of darkness

As Asriel moved through the pipe it had a strange smell that tingled his nose Asriel then wondered if anything has changed on his planet. Asriel thought about it the time when the planet was attacked more than anything what is likely happened is that the imperium may have come down harder on the populace especially those who live in the undercity.

Asriel could not help but give a small chuckle the reason chaos thrives and exists is because of how the imperium treats it's populace and when something does happen they push harder. It then makes people consider the other hell might be preferable to the one they are living in now. It's an eternal cycle of suffering and hate.

Asriel looked forward he could see a low light at the end of the tunnel it seems they reached where they needed to go. As Asriel reached the end of the pipe there was a small jump to the ground. Asriel hopped down Isira then followed suit. Asriel could see she was wearing boots with her robe.

Asriel looked up to see Isabella staring down Asriel said "What's the matter? Jump!" Isabella looked around "isn't there a safer way to get down?" Asriel sighed he opened up his arms "fine I will catch you just hurry up and jump." Isabella nodded she jumped Asriel caught her he held Isabella in his arms she smiled "such a gentlemen." Asriel frowned he felt a great need to simply drop her on the ground.
Asriel decided other wise he simply placed Isabella on her feet, Isabella brushed her black dress "So where are we going?" Asriel looked around there are tons of open pipes pouring out dirty water and pollution Asriel guessed that they are most likely on the lower level. Asriel watched Isira point in a direction "there are many unused lifts of various sizes in the lower level we will take one to the undercity. As I said before Isabella you will take the lift for one more level."

Isabella nodded "very well lead the way." Isira began to walk in the direction she pointed Asriel followed along with Isabella. Asriel looked around he could see destitute houses people walking by heads down to whatever business they have to attend to. In the corners of the allyways he could see mutants hiding or begging. Asriel wondered how the people here dealt with living day by day.

This place just from walking around is far worse than the undercity. Still the odd thing is as they walked nobody payed them any mind. Isira then cut into a ally way Isabella frowned and lifted up her skirt slightly "I wish to leave this place quickly.." Isira scowled "stop complaining!" For once Asriel agreed with Isira as they walked down the ally way three men blocked the way. They held blades.

The largest of them walked forward "hello pretty ladies.. how about you come with us?" Asriel sighed he walked to the front the large man raised his eyebrow "What? You want to get in our way li-" With a swift motion Asriel threw three blades all landing in the foreheads of the assailants. They crumpled to the ground with a thud the grime splashing slightly as they hit the ground.

Asriel walked over and pulled the blades out he cleaned them and sheathed them into his belt. Isira folded her arms "I could of handled that." Asriel turned "with sorcery? We don't know who is watching at the moment." Isira frowned "It would not be obvious Asriel." Asriel shook his head in disagreement "there are still risks." Isira shrugged "we are in the lower city. Tell me who would know?"

Asriel folded his arms "these days most planets have inquisitors that watch carefully for even a hint of change or abnormality. When we work tread carefully."

Isira rolled her eyes "anyway let's get to the lift we are wasting time arguing." Isira walked past Asriel he could feel the annoyance bleeding off her. Asriel looked at the dead men for a moment he then followed Isira's lead.

After walking for a few minutes they eventually reached an old lift. Isira pressed a few buttons at the panel it lit up and she smiled "good it still seems to be working." Isira pressed another button and the doors opened. Isira gestured "let's go."

Asriel watched Isira and Isabella step onto the lift. As Asriel walked on he felt slightly anxious as the doors closed and the lift started to move. Asriel guessed it's the fact he is returning to the undercity out of the people he knew he is the only one left alive. Isabella touched his shoulder "is something wrong Asriel?" Asriel moved away "I am fine."

The lift ground to a halt the doors opened Isira walked out "Asriel this is our stop." Asriel walked out of the lift the smell of his old home filled his nostrils and then he felt a strange need. The need to tear all of it down the need to drag everyone into corruption. The emotion felt pleasant it felt right. Asriel nodded he turned to Isabella "I assume you know what you are doing?" Isabella grinned "don't worry about me I will be fine." The lift doors closed and began moving upwards again.

Asriel turned and looked forward there was a light at the end of the ally way. Isira gestured "time to get moving." Asriel and Isira walked out of the ally way. When they exited Asriel looked around he saw people walking about going on their business. Stalls of merchants shouting to sell their goods and finally Asriel looked up the grey sky. It is still the same as he remembered it.

Isira looked at him "so how do you feel? I recall for you it's been a long time." Asriel looked down he spoke almost in a whisper "I want to tear it all down." Isira smirked "you are that committed? very well that is what we shall do. First I will like to see if my contacts are still about." Asriel nodded "they might still be around when the great rift spread across the galaxy time shifted for many planets. Honestly it might only be a few years since the attack."

Isira looked around "right then, you will meet me in the plaza of the undercity in two hours." Asriel raised his eyebrow "why should we not do this together?" Isira shook her head "some of my contacts get angsty if they see someone they don't recognise. So go do something useful scout the area or even reminiscence on your home and on how much you want to tear down your home."

Isira walked away until she vanished into the crowd. Asriel looked around he began thinking of where should he go. Asriel then thought of a few places of signficance to him "I shall go to those places then.." Asriel began walking down the road as his old memories came flooding back.

 Dayknight wrote:

lliu wrote:

 shinros wrote:

lliu wrote:
If you need to get any inspiration about futures and how people react to them, look at the Dune series. The second book tackles the issue of changing and being trapped by the future. Is a really good read.

I will take a look thanks for the advice! I want to also explore that perhaps people might see different things or seek different outcomes.The story will get into that soon.

The book talks about how once you see the history, you're bound to it. That means that whatever you do, you can't escape it, and it's this psychological horror by the end of the book.

I would argue for a different interpretation. I clearly remember him speaking of seeing time in the 4th dimension as a series of valleys and mountains and the nexus point of decisions. I'd further argue against it with the third book. as leto 2 comments that his father knew what to do but left it up to his son to do it

I mean the second book isn’t it all about how he tries really hard to change history but then realizes every one of his changes still led to the jihad, so he stopped caring and became suicidal? I mean the pressure of it did cause him to walk into the desert. Also, leto 2 also said that Paul was too fearful of the possIble future, but he wasn’t, and that’s why he became god emperor? Idk but at least that was what I interperated it as.

Chapter 33

the sword shall cut the head of the deceiver's champion

Asriel traced his steps the same road he always took to work. Asriel wondered if his work place is still standing he wondered if people are still funnelled in to slave away to fuel the imperium war machine. Eventually Asriel reached it his old work place the ammo factory where he spent majority of his youth.

Asriel looked up, the building is still in use smog bellowed out of the chimney. Asriel stood on the side of the road simply starting at it. Asriel cast his head down he smirked "I wonder how people stand it. I could never go back to that.." Asriel waited for a few minutes, workers began leaving the factory heads cast downwards.

Asriel watched them leave he almost exactly what they are thinking of. They must be wondering how are they going to meet end's meet. They might be in debt or they wonder how they are going to feed their families. This cycle will continue until their death it will be never ending and never changing. Every single day your mind filled with worries on how you will get to the next. Their lives will not be filled with a single happy moment and because the imperium wishes it that way they may never know the delights they could enjoy or perhaps the hidden talents they might even possess.

Asriel looked at the workers faces all of various skin tones, builds and age. Asriel then thought on the mural everyone who bare's a number is connected to the heretical tribes of the past. Asriel frowned "penance.. I spit on it. Which ever primarch allowed this I curse their name." Asriel turned away from his old work place he has another place he wishes to visit.

Asriel walked the streets heading to a specific location as Asriel walked he saw children running around playing while their parents watched from a distance. A child crashed in to him clearly not watching where they are going. The child tumbled to the ground with a thud "Ouch! Ow ow!" The child yelped. Asriel looked at the child he reached out his hand "Are you okay? My apologies."

The child looked up Asriel could see the child is a boy the boy nodded "I am fine." The boy got up and brushed his clothes. A woman came running over clearly worried "2341! Are you okay?!" Asriel could see it's the mother she wore a brown robe she bent down as she wiped away the dust from her son's clothes.

The mother rose and bowed her head to Asriel she pushed her son's head down "I am sorry. My boy was not looking where he was going." Asriel raised his hands "It's okay. It's just an accident. Is your son okay?" The woman rose "he is fine just a small scrape."

The woman began staring at Asriel she placed her finger to her lips "I don't recall seeing someone like you here before. Are you an off worlder?" Asriel tried not to make a suspicious expression he simply nodded "Yes. I am a pilgrim seeking to understand this world and visit the temples and churches of this planet" The woman gave a weak smile "If that is the case I recommend the higher levels. Not much to learn here." Asriel shook his head "you can learn and experience things even in the lowest of places."

Asriel wondered what he should say next the normal thing to do would be to introduce himself but he was not exactly sure how the woman would react if he asked such a thing. Asriel thought of how he should frame his question. Asriel took a small breath "may I ask something?" The woman nodded "what is it?"

Asriel felt his mouth drying slightly "there is something peculiar about this planet everyone from the mid level upwards have names. Yet everyone in the undercity..." Asriel watched the woman look away in sadness she gave a sad smile "well... you heard right. Everyone here have numbers instead of names."

Asriel frowned he asked "why is that the case? Almost all the worlds I have been to I have never seen such a thing." Asriel could see the woman is holding her sad smile Asriel said "Apologies if I asked something inappropriate." Asriel knew most don't want to talk about it but he wanted to understand truly are people truly willing to live like this? He wondered how would people in the undercity react if they knew of the mural?

The woman shook her head "It's fine we rarely get visitors here I should be thankful that a pilgrim at least wishes to understand us." The woman looked down to her child Asriel repeated the boys number in his head 2341. Asriel could see looking at the woman's face referring to her boy as a number everyday is destroying her inside.

The woman gave a small bow "anyway we must be going." Asriel nodded "thank you for your time. I appreciate the time you took to talk with me.." Asriel trailed off he wanted to know her number. Asriel wanted to see her reaction saying it out loud.

The woman cast her eyes down slightly "It's 5239. I also thank you for your time sir. Before you leave may I ask something?" Asriel nodded "Go ahead." The woman looked directly into his eyes "sir may I ask. Do you have a name?" Asriel nodded again "Indeed I do. Do you wish to know?"

The woman shook her head "no.. it's alright. I just wanted to say you are fortunate to have one." The woman turned away with her child as they walked back to the group of children. Asriel watched the boy join the children again playing like nothing happened. Asirel wondered if he understood the significance of their conversation. If the boy ever wondered why his name is a set of numbers.

Asriel shook his head slowly he felt a small measure of sadness just a speck. The reason why the woman did not ask for his name is because her son would most likely question why his name is different.

Asriel stood for a moment watching if he was not captured by Silas during that time he would be like everyone else. Asriel held his hands together thinking his ears began to tickle slightly +you are indeed fortunate blood of my blood. Flesh of my flesh...+ Asriel flicked around quickly his eyes scanned the streets.

Asriel touched his ears the tickling sensation vanished the voice had no distinction of gender save that it sounded... old. Asriel questioned Meliva his heart beating rapidly "Did you say something?" Meliva shifted within Asriel's chest "No. Why are you asking?" Asriel looked around again he could only see people walking by on the streets. He could not detect anything either.

Meliva spoke firmly "perhaps not sleeping is taking it's toll?" Asriel ignored Meliva he walked down the street. Asriel tapped both his cheeks with both hands trying to refocus. Asriel nodded "right I was going to visit that place."

Asriel kept walking he made a turn into an ally way and walked to a dead end. Asriel touched the wall he spoke in a whisper "I am alive and you are dead..." Asriel began thinking of them what sort of choices they had to make. Why they did what they did in the end Asriel came to one conclusion all of them had one thing in common. This planet made them this way.

To serve a penance they had nothing to do with. Asriel turned one of his nails into a talon and bought it down the wall leaving a small line. Asriel hissed "all of you had no choice didn't you?" Asriel removed his finger from the wall.

Meliva sighed in annoyance "are you done? watching you brood is boring to watch." Asriel frowned "deal with it. It's not like Zatos where we largely killed how we wished we are here for a purpose and even then those murders in the past were done to improve myself." Asriel walked out of the alleyway Meliva did not protest further.

Asriel looked around and nodded "one more stop." As Asriel walked the place he was about to visit it now disgusted him. What made it even more disgusting is how popular going to those places are for many people in the undercity. Asriel made his way to a church a familiar one at that. Asriel looked up to the building he could not help but laugh at the irony. Everyone in the undercity pray to people who most likely put them in the situation they are currently in.

All the misery, the heartbreak they give thanks to the people who made it this way. Asriel could see people at the steps praying he could just about make out the prayer "I pray to you holy god-emperor please let my naming day come soon..."

Asriel watched them mouth the names of the primarchs after the prayer was done. Asriel felt an intense need to drag them from their knees. To force them to stand to shout at them that they are the source of their current situation.

Asriel wondered what their ancestors in the mural would think of them. What the heretical tribes would think to see their descendants kneeling in the dirt praying to the people who punished them. Asriel clenched his teeth, Asriel then felt his ears tingling again +they are weak and useless... all need bled out.. all want removed...+

Asriel in reaction turned his head rapidly Asriel hissed under his breath "Meliva are you messing with me? What are you playing at?" Asriel could tell Meliva is becoming angered "Enough! I am not doing anything! What ever you are hearing is not me!" Asriel held his mind slightly when Meliva shouted it was like a spike within his mind.

Asriel furrowed his brows "if it was not you.. who is it?" Meliva scowled "As I said before whatever you are hearing is not me. Now leave me." Asriel removed his hand from his head. Asriel looked at the church one more time he clenched his fist as he walked away.

Asriel made his way to the plaza this is where the greatest amount of merchants are located in the undercity all of them plying their trade. Asriel waited by the fountain the water was grimy due to all the pollution. Through the crowd he saw Isira walking towards him he folded his arms "so how did it go?"

Isira grinned "many of them are still in place to my surprise. You were right it actually has not been that long since the attack." Asriel stroked his chin "did your contacts actually say how long it has been?" Isira nodded "yes. It's only been 7 years."

Asriel raised his eyebrow "I am surprised your contacts stuck around for that long." Isira gave Asriel a coy smile "They are devoted to me. They pretty much fell to my feet when they saw me." Asriel scratched his head "So how are we handling this then?"

Asriel tapped her cheek with one finger "well.. one of my contacts put me in contact with a gang that's a bit down on their luck. We will join them and work through them." Asriel frowned "I assume I will be murdering for them I take it?" Isira smiled and nodded "of course that is what you will be doing."

Asriel sighed "right so where will we be meeting this gang then?" Isira pointed "we will go to a certain bar." Asriel narrowed his eyes "I take it that it's Jimmy's bar?" Isira looked at him in surprise "so you know him?" Asriel shook his head "never been there in the past I wanted to avoid gangs it was bad for your health getting involved with them." Asriel also knew that he was a part of Isira's cult.

If anyone could get general information on the events of the undercity it would be him considering Jimmy's bar is normally frequented by gangs. Gangs speak a lot when drunk or under pressure. Asriel gestured "Well.. why don't you lead the way then?" Isira flourished her hair slightly "very well. follow me."

Asriel followed Isira as they made their way to the bar he could tell that the amount of normal folk on the streets dwindled. They were entering gang territory now, Asriel decided to somewhat display his knives and gun. Gangs were more likely to leave you be if you are armed they prefer softer targets to mug in his experience.

Isira walked how she always did without a care of what's going on around her Asriel wondered if he was not here would the gangs attack her. If they do so Asriel knew it would be the death of the gang members who attempt such a thing. They eventually came to a large building with a glowing sign. Asriel mouthed the name slowly "The drowning flagon..."

Isira turned her head slightly "concentrate Asriel!" Asriel looked down and shrugged "are we going in?" Isira gestured "you first." Asriel frowned "may I ask why?" Isira folded her arms "you look more threatening. Now go in first." Asriel sighed in annoyance he walked to the doors of the bar and entered.

A strong smell of beer hit his nose silence came to the bar as everyone looked at him. Isira then entered and stood behind him. A man who Asriel assumed to be a gang member got up and approached him. He was bald with olive skin and a large scar lining his face. He also had a large frame.

Asriel knew that the were sizing him up hence why Isira asked him to enter first of course the issue is that he does not look that intimidating nor does he have a large frame or the scars to show that he has fought. Everyone in the bar thinks he is soft meat to be played with.
The gang member stood in front of Asriel "name is Big Ben. I don't like your face little man." Asriel shrugged "deal with it. I don't have time to entertain idiots." The table Big Ben came from one of his follow gang members called out "kill the idiot Ben so we can get back to drinking!"

Asriel from the corner of his eye could see Jimmy standing at his work area cleaning a glass clearly disinterested. Asriel could see that people dying here is the norm. Asriel pulled out his pen from his belt. Asriel pressed the button a few times Big Ben laughed "What are you going to do with that?"

Asriel twisted the pen to the side and slammed it into Big Ben's neck, Big Ben screamed he began struggling trying to push Asriel away. Asriel grabbed Big ben and slammed him down on a nearby table he removed his pen and with a swift motion stabbed deep into his ear and twisted. Asriel slowly removed his pen it was covered in blood. Asriel removed a piece of cloth from his belt and wiped the blood off. He threw the cloth on top of Big Ben when he was done. After a moment Big Ben tumbled off the table to the ground the cloth lying on the ground beside him.

Asriel could feel Meliva coiling with pleasure and excitement. Asriel watched the gang members who sat at Big Ben's table rising getting ready to fight. Asriel pressed the button on his pen a few more times to check if it still worked he placed it back in his belt. Asriel frowned at the gang members "I killed your biggest man with a pen. Imagine what I could do with a knife or a gun? So how about you just sit down and enjoy your drinks?"

The gang members looked at each other, Asriel could see a small amount of sweat dribbling down their brows. They all slowly sat down and got back to drinking.

Asriel could feel Isira staring is at him, Asriel turned his head slightly "what is it?" Isira looked slightly surprised "so the pencil story is true? Interesting. I thought everyone was lying at the compound." Isira walked over the corpse and towards a group of people sitting at a large table they all wore black trench coats. Some wore gas masks. As Asirel saw this his heart skipped a beat.

Asriel whispered under his breath "so it begins."

Chapter 34

The bird shrieks as the marionettes dance

Asriel walked over to the table and sat down with Isira. All the gang members stared at each other and then back to Asriel. Isira grinned "I told you. He has the skills necessary to take care of your enemies. Now if I may introduce myself my name is Ashley." Asriel frowned as Isira introduced herself it is now clear to him why she had him enter the bar first.

Asriel looked around the table trying to spot the leader at the other end of the table in the middle there was a person wearing a gas mask with a small sliver skull on the forehead. They chuckled "well.. it seems he is everything that your contact promised to us. I assume introductions are in order?" The gang member tapped their chest with their hand "You can call me Sam."

Sam folded his arms "Sam of the Dead Skulls." Sam stared at Asriel "do you have a name?" Asriel nodded "my name is George." Asriel was not about to give his real name and given that the name is quite.. plain he hoped it would provide the reaction he wants. Sam leaned back in his chair "really? are you from here? Where did you learn to fight like that? Asriel shrugged "lived hand to mouth everyday from the lower levels to the undercity I had to learn to fight." As Sam folded his arms he tapped his finger on his arm "still killing Big Ben got you in." Sam looked to Isira "Ashley is also providing her contacts to us so we can get some trade in." Asriel turned his head to Isira slightly and then back to Sam "I see. So is there anything you want me to do? To formally situate myself into the gang? I am eager to get started."

Sam nodded approvingly "good of you to say that George. I do have something I want you to do." Sam leaned forward "I want you to take two of my people here." Sam pointed at two people on the table "This is Lizzy and Luke. I want the three of you to deal with a few people who think to move on our turf. It's bad for business." Sam began to describe the people he wanted killed "they all wear blue scarfs and a white shirt each of them have a tattoo of a key on their lower arms." Asriel nodded "I see I will keep an eye out."

Asriel looked to the two people he would be going out with as Sam mentioned the job both were white like sheets. Luke had shaggy blone hair, his skin was olive he also had brown eyes. Asriel could see he looked young. Younger than he himself appears. Luke spoke his voice stammering slightly "er are you sure boss? Just the three of us?" Lizzy interjected agreeing with Luke "Three people is quite a low number boss." Asriel looked at Lizzy she had short hair, Lizzy's skin tone was the same as Luke's her distinguishing feature is that she had freckles. Sam scowled in annoyance "Yes! Just the three of you now if you don't complete the job don't bother coming back." Luke gulped, Lizzy simply sighed. Asriel nodded "just give me the location and I will deal with it." Sam chuckled "So confident. Interesting.." Sam placed a small map on the table he pointed "they normally ply their trade here. I want them gone."

Asriel looked at the location Asriel noted that it's not actually too far from here, Asriel looked up "Is there any other specifics of how you want them to be killed? To send a message?" Sam looked to Isira "Has your man ran with gangs before? I like him!" Isira smirked "George has been around the block a few times." Sam shrugged "there are no specifics as I said I just want them gone." Asriel nodded "very well." Asriel rose from the table Luke rapidly looked to Sam and then Asriel "we are doing this now? Like now?" Sam sighed "Yes you idiot! Now get going!" Lizzy rose silently it took a few moments for Luke to leave his seat.

Asriel simply walked out of the bar not waiting a moment for his compatriots. As he left the bar Lizzy and Luke were behind him. Asriel turned "So how often have you killed people?" Luke gulped "never." Lizzy looked away slightly "I have killed only three people." Asriel frowned so Sam stuck him with green people he guessed this is another test. Asriel smiled "Just leave it to me." Luke nodded "okay." Lizzy folded her arms "you are rather confident. The way you killed Big Ben should have people talking for a week." Asriel nodded "I am confident. If you are not confident when you are killing someone you will make mistakes."

Lizzy raised her eyebrow "A lesson then?" Asriel nodded again "Yes." Asriel turned away "we should get going." Asriel began walking to the area pointed out by Sam he could hear Lizzy and Luke's footsteps behind him. Asriel mused that it is actually a good that he got green people that way he can twist them. Isira is most likely going to focus on corrupting Sam.

Luke came forward walking side by side with Asriel he scratched the back of his head "So.. why did you join?" Asriel turned his head to Luke "why? I have nothing else. I tire of working in the factories and when my parents died a few years ago I had to learn how to survive." Luke gave a sad smile "I get it. My ma and Pa died a few months ago. I also hated being a number being pushed around.. and looked down upon. Arbites mocking me and the fact I am number. Still since joining Sam I have a name. I am no longer 0339 my name is Luke." Luke nodded in satisfaction. Asriel grinned he thought to himself that Luke is still somewhat innocent, Asriel wondered how he will turn out once it takes it away. Lizzy came forward "I still don't know how we are going to handle this job." Asriel shook his head "remember what I said? Have confidence?" Lizzy sighed "easy for you to say. You are already strong." Asriel raised his eyebrow "So I assume you joined Sam's gang to become strong I take it?" Lizzy looked away quickly "n-no. I did not join for that reason!" Asriel gave a sad smile "I get it. I know what it's like to be weak I hated it." Lizzy turned her head back "R-really? someone like you was weak?" Asriel nodded "Yes and now I am strong but it takes work to get there."

Asriel kept talking with them trying to find out more about Luke and Lizzy. Luke idealised the freedom of gangs he had a true sense of naivety about the undercity. Lizzy was more levelled headed but she had something to prove Asriel wondered if such a quirk would make her do something rash down the line.

Asriel looked down the street in the corner he could see a group of people in the location Sam pointed out and they matched the description. Asriel pulled out his pistol he removed the ammunition and counted "7 huh..." Asriel looked up and counted the number of people "5 people to kill.." Asriel placed the ammunition back into the pistol. Asriel simply walked down the street towards them, Luke looked like he was growing to throw up and Lizzy was clearly nervous. Asriel stopped a few paces from the group the one Asriel assumed to be the leader looked up "Oh hey look it seems Sam sent some people to clear us off!" He snickered he stood up right the other gang members stood tall with the leader "Name is Bob the ring leader. Bob the key master."

Bob's followers all nodded one shouted "Clear off before we you kill you!" Bob held his hand up "Now no-" Asriel did not let him finish Asriel raised his pistol and fired into the heads of each of Bob's followers they all crumpled to the ground. Bob looked around "By the emp-" Asriel lowered his pistol and shot both of Bob's knee caps. Bob fell to the ground screaming "You bastard! I will kill you!" Lizzy blinked she looked to Asriel and the dead gang members "what just happened? I missed it." Luke scratched his head "I did not see it either."

Bob tried to reach for his belt to pull out his pistol Asriel shot him in the arm. Bob Squealed "Dammit! Alright! Alright! We will leave! Don't kill me!" Asriel gave a small sigh of pleasure, he smiled as he said to himself "it's been a long time since I last did this." Asriel reloaded his gun. Asriel was about to pull the trigger he stopped and turned to Luke "How about you kill him?" Luke looked around "Er okay.." Luke came forward, Asriel handed out his pistol "Use mine." Luke grabbed Asriel's pistol he turned it slightly and pointed it slanted at Bob with one hand "This i- is our turf scum!" Luke's hand was shaking as he held the gun. Asriel shook his head in annoyance as he watched Luke "You don't hold a gun that way."

Asriel adjusted Luke's hands "There. Now your aim won't divert and you got a firm grip." Luke nodded Asriel could see he was still nervous he had trouble pulling the trigger. Asriel smiled "Luke you are nervous. I was as well let me tell you that you will feel better after you kill him. Bob is scared is because you now have power over his life just pull the trigger and snatch it away. I bet you never had power over people.. It's the reason why you joined the gang yes?" Luke looked to Asriel in confusion "I-" Asriel nodded "Trust me you will feel better once you do it. Remember what I said before?" Luke nodded slowly "kill with confidence."

Asriel grinned "Indeed. So kill him." Luke turned to Bob who was not trying to slowly drag himself away. Luke fired Asriel's pistol into Bob's body he kept firing until he unloaded the magazine clip. Lizzy held Luke's shoulder "He is dead Luke you can stop." Luke stopped pressing the trigger panting slightly.

Asriel reached out his hand "My pistol Luke?" It took a moment for Luke to respond "Oh yes. sorry.." Luke handed the pistol back. Asriel could not help but frown slightly that Luke used all the ammunition. Asriel reloaded his gun and holstered it. Asriel nodded in satisfaction "well.. that's the job complete isn't it?" Luke rubbed his shoulder "yeah.. it is." Lizzy folded her arms "well we should get back. Sam will be surprised on how fast this was done." Lizzy began walking away. Luke followed suit, Asriel walked beside Luke, Asriel then wrapped his arm around Luke's shoulder to his surprise "So Luke. How did you feel when you killed him?" Luke looked to Asriel he seemed unsure he scratched his cheek slightly "It felt kinda good actually.." Asriel released Luke and stroked his chin "See? You will get used to it the more you do it. You may even end up enjoying it."

Luke nodded slowly "Y-yeah! I even got a story to tell now!" Asriel smiled he then looked to Lizzy who was a few paces ahead. Asriel wondered exactly how he was going to handle her.

Isabella walked the streets of the middle layer what she found surprising is that compared to most hive cities the middle layer looked almost close to noble districts found on other planets. Isabella chuckled "so they heap all the misery upon those who are born below.." Isabella stopped and looked around searching for a possible mark. There were a few nobles walking around with armed escorts. Sizing up some of the beggars What also stood out most of all that nobles wore many religious symbols. Isabella guessed that the nobles of this planet were pious this caused Isabella to think back to the conversation with Asriel how some nobles like to pick people up from the streets even numbers. Isabella grinned "how naughty all of you are... how bored you must be.." Isabella intentionally made herself stand out slightly she crafted her story to be slightly against the grain. Isabella wanted to make herself desirable compared to the dung heap that beg on the streets.

Isabella scanned the streets again she spotted a noble his face was quite rugged not hard on the eyes either. He also had a somewhat well built frame. She could see that he wore a great amount of religious icons. Isabella grinned she wonder what kind of darkness he hid under all of that. The noble began walking down the street.

Isabella hurried across to position herself to bump into him. Isabella waited for the right moment she walked quickly towards him. Isabella could see he is not paying attention. Isabella walked right into him she crashed to the ground with a thud. Isabella rubbed her legged slighty.
Isabella looked up to see the noble's mouth agape slightly it's clear he is struck by her beauty. Isabella tried to look as fearful as possible. She got up and turned away, Isabella felt him grabbing her arm. Isabella slowly turned "I am sorry.. please.. don't hurt me!" The noble quickly removed his hand "my apologies! Also do not worry I do not aim to hurt you." The noble coughed "may I ask who you are?"

Isabella looked away and rubbed her arm "I prefer not to say.." Isabella bowed "I am so very sorry I did not see where I was going.." The noble shook his head "It's my fault do you have a name?" Isabella slowly mouthed a name she came up with "Alivia... Alivia Odalis"
The Noble furrowed his brows "Alivia... Alivia Odalis... a wonderful name may I ask why such... a person like you is wandering the streets?" Isabella looked away slightly "When the attack happened I lost my family and then eventually our business and our home. I been... moving about doing odd and.. terrible things and side jobs for people. I drift from place to place I could not take it anymore... the requests got worse and worse.."

The noble seemed rustled by what she just said one of the noble's armed escorts came forward "sir can we trust this woman? she seems suspicious." Isabella tried to not to frown in annoyance. The noble waved his guard away "don't you see? A child of the god-emperor was thrown on the streets due to the heretical attack! Look at her! She looks middle or even perhaps upper born like me! You of all people should know how ruddy and disgusting numbers are. No one of possible higher breed should have to degrade themselves to get by!"

The guard stepped back "apologies sir.." The noble turned back to Isabella he smiled "Aliva, if you would come with me. I will do my duty to take care of you. My name is Izarus Gaidar head of House Gaidar! I swear I shall take care of you!" Isabella bowed she had to hold her grin back keep she had to keep up the act. Isabella gave the weakest smile she could possibly muster "I thank you my lord." Isabella bowed again.

Izarus reached out his hand "Your hand Alivia" Isabella slowly gave her hand Izarus kissed the top of her hand. Isabella could see Izarus is also breathing in her scent slightly. Izarus grinned "Now if you would come with me." Isabella followed deep down she was elated now she has to get to work.

Yes I had fun writing this chapter especially Asriel's bit with the pistol.

Hehe. Well that's fun.

Chapter 35
The corrupted sword walks blindly as it destroys the enemies of the herald

As Asriel returned to the bar with Lizzy and Luke he could see Sam in discussion with Isira. As Asriel sat at the table Asriel could tell he is surprised he did not expect them back so soon. What shocked him more is the fact that everyone looked absolutely fine. Sam crossed his arms "Is the job completed?" Asriel nodded "all of them are dead." Sam looked to Luke and Lizzy "So.. are they truly dead?" Asriel wanted to frown but held it back it's understandable he is most likely questioning how he did it. Along with the fact that he completed the task with green members. Lizzy nodded "aye they are dead boss." Luke played with his thumbs "yes all of them are dead.

Sam leaned back in his chair "well that is a surprise. All right George you are a full member." Asriel nodded "I won't let you down." Sam turned his head to Isira "So Ashley how soon we will get those weapons?" Isira grinned "in a few days you will get the gear you will need." Sam rose from his seat "well that's today's work is done, George you should come with us we will get you set up in our base." Asriel rose from his seat he looked to Isira she waved him away "don't worry I will be fine." Asriel could see Sam and the gang members have started to leave. Asriel looked to Jimmy he guessed that Isira would be staying with him. Asriel gave Isira a curt nod "I will see you soon then."

Asriel turned away and followed Sam out of the bar. As they got outside Sam stretched "I feel these next few weeks are going to be good!" Sam turned his head slightly in Asriel's direction. Meliva shifted slightly her voice echoing in his mind "the fool has no idea does he?" Asriel smirked "Indeed he doesn't." Sam walked down the street Asriel followed. Asriel decided to engage in further discussion with Luke and Lizzy. Luke does not seem to be on edge after his first kill it seems Asriel's words have rubbed off on him. Lizzy seems to be difficult she does not exactly want to rely on him but she is looking for her own means to get stronger. What Asriel found a little amusing is that she somewhat reminded him of a certain Astartes.

They eventually stopped at a large building that had small banners hanging from the window. They were black with a white skull on it. Sam nodded to the the armed guards they opened the doors. Sam turned and faced Asriel "this is your new home. Since you joined us and Ashley is providing her contacts this place will get a lot bigger and busier." Asriel rubbed his hands together slightly it's been an age since he last ran with a gang he wondered if this one is going to be interesting? "thank you.. should I call you boss or Sam?" Sam shrugged "either works you proved yourself capable." Asriel nodded "Ok Sam I can't wait to get started." Asriel could tell Sam is grinning under his gas-mask. Sam walked into the building everyone followed suit.

Isabella took a fancy elevator with Izarus it ran far more smoothly and smelt better compared to the one she used to get to the middle layer. As they went up Izarus held his hands behind his back "tell my Alivia what kind of business did your family run before it was lost?" Isabella frowned she wanted to show the pain on her face "It was a perfume business for men and women." Izarus nodded "I see I know that many of my upper born brethren do acquire rare mixes from the middle layer. Perhaps you could brew something once you settle?" Isabella raised her eyebrow "settle?" Izarus turned to face Isabella "yes you will be living with me from now on." Isabella tried hard to contain her excitement everything is going smoothly. Isabella nodded "I see.." Izarus frowned "Do not worry Isabella I am not like the brutes who have.. handled you in the past I am quite a good patron."

Isabella could see the guards are stony faced at this discussion she guessed this is rather normal. Isabella bowed slightly "I thank you for your hospitality my lord." Izarus nodded approvingly Isabella could see she said the right thing. The elevator ground to a halt the doors opened a clean smell hit Isabella's nose, Izarus gestured for Isabella to step out first "After you." Isabella walked out of the elevator what she saw took her breath away. Tall golden spires that reached the skies, mansions with inscribed sliver and gold in the workings.

It was like she found herself on a totally different planet. Izarus walked forward "Impressive isn't it? As befits the chosen." Isabella turned slightly "Chosen?" Izarus raised his eyebrow "You must know of our planet's history? I assume you had far more worries than piety considering your station and situation." Isabella nodded she crafted a story quickly "Yes after being.. around I did not find myself worthy to take a priests time." Izarus nodded "I can see that, your new life will begin here Alivia." Izarus gestured to the golden towers and mansions "we reap the bounties of the god-emperor. We are the people who joined hands to fight back against the heretics and witches in ages past." Izarus pointed at the largest mansion in the distance "The planetary Governor Gabriel Ulbrecht has ancestry connected to the first prophet who called the emperor's holy child to this planet. To deliver us. To save us."

Izarus grinned "Now Alivia if you follow me." Isabella followed Izarus another thing Isabella noted along with the PDF there were Tempestus scions walking around. Isabella shifted slightly, Izarus caught onto it "Do not worry they are here to protect us. Ever since the attack more of them appeared to aid in keeping.. order." Isabella noticed that Izarus held onto the word order for a moment. It would not surprise her if some of the nobles joined the warband in some form and their presence is here to crack down on the nobles. She understands how suffocating that can be and it's something Isabella decided she could use in the future. They eventually stopped at a large mansion which Isabella guessed to be Izarus's home.

Izarus' guards walked forward quickly and stood at the door. One unlocked the door and opened it for them. Izarus' walked forward casually into his home looking at it for a moment Isabella felt somewhat jealous of his mansion it is far more grand and majestic compared to her one on Zatos. Isabella slowly followed as she entered the mansion even the inside out did her old home. The floor looked marble it was pristine and if you looked around there were grand paintings of saints and other icons of faith. There were also stairs leading up to a second floor the carpet also looked fresh. Izarus clapped and in a few seconds several butlers and maids came down the stairs and from the side rooms. Izarus gestured to Isabella "Please have Alivia cleaned and redressed. Also I want a request sent to a priest so he can preform the rite of cleansing."

Isabella licked her lips nervously she tried not to let it show "may I ask what is the cleansing?" Izarus smiled "It's a ritual to cleanse your body and soul and to detect any possible taint." Isabella swore under her breath she wondered if such a ritual actually worked. Isabella tried to smile "again I thank you for the hospitality my lord." Izarus held his hand up "think nothing of it." Izarus clapped again the butlers and maids somewhat forcibly escorted Isabella away. Isabella's kept thinking whether this rite will blow her cover. Isabella bit her lip slightly as the butler's and maids escorted her away.

Belaris sat his desk going over reports he has acolytes situated in the undercity, middle layer and upper layer for any sign of the gem. The gem will be the damnation of this planet if the enemy gets to it first. Belaris wondered how his agent in the undercity is doing more often than not the great enemy uses gangs to build up a presence. Belaris had Micheal searching the middle layer and finally his last Acolyte is searching among the nobility. Belaris could not take any chances considering this planet was attacked in the past he knew whatever the great enemy touches they bring ruin. Deep down Belaris hated the planet their strange system and how they treated their people their piety is a facade to hold themselves over other people. He went over the mural with the priests if he was in charge back then he would of ordered all the heretical tribes to be killed and forgotten. To even acknowledge the enemy is a sin in his eyes. In the end the decision was made possibly by a primarch and most likely not by the one who is Alive now helping to fight against the darkness.

Belaris shifted through the papers, he recently got a report from his undercity acolyte. They noted that the gang has found a new partner. The more surprising thing is the person the new partner has bought with them. Belaris could see his acolyte has a great amount of suspicion for both of them. Belaris organised a dead drop message it's how he remains in contact with his undercity Acolyte. Belaris was careful not to say their name within his mind or on the written message since he had no idea if someone could be watching at this very moment or intercept the deadrop message. Belaris leaned back in his chair he looked at his communication device screen the request to the salamnders is pending to be sent.

The message to call down the strike team the grand master gave him is also pending to be sent. Belaris wondered how the battle on Zatos is going. Belaris clenched his fists he looked at his gauntlet "If I looked into it sooner this would not have happened. I can't fail here.."
Belaris heard a knock on his door he sighed as he got up. Belaris had a good idea who it was, Belaris opened the door it was the planetary governor with his armed escort "Gabriel Ulbrecht, I did not expect you to visit me." Gabriel had tanned skin he was bald and wore a red robe lined with prayer parchment and religious icons. Gabriel walked into his office he gestured for his guards to wait outside, Gabriel looked around "I hope you are finding this office hospitable inquisitor." Belaris nodded "I thank you for the donation I recall you personally came to greet me when I arrived in the past. I still find it surprising that someone of your station is coming to me about my investigation."

Gabriel smiled "I am quite aware people in my position can be quite aloof and hard to work with but as you recall the attack is still fresh in everyone's minds." Belaris nodded "hence why I made the decision for the scions to patrol the upper layer." Gabriel nodded "I know but the nobles are getting restless inquisitor. The soldiers are scrutinising their every movement like they are.." Belaris finished his sentence "heretics? Governor what you must understand anyone can become a heretic no matter what station they are. Chosen or not."Belaris could see he struck a nerve with his last comment, Gabriel simply turned away "very well I shall leave you to your work." Gabriel left his office without another word. One thing Belaris did not bring up is how he found the office to be bugged when Gabriel first "donated" it to him. He had them removed but after he did so Gabriel now comes with his "visits".

Belaris frowned he spoke quietly to himself "chosen? what sort of pious folk would spy on the representative of the god-emperor's power? All men and women hold darkness governor even you." Belaris thought back to the cult he sprang in the past he thought it was dealt with but all that happened is that they went to ground and the attack came later. The attack everyone is still feeling to this day. In his eyes that was failure and he swore to himself not to fail again.

Belaris walked back to his desk to continue organising the dead drop.

Chapter 36

Isabella waited nervously in the bath area with two maids. The priest is arriving soon she looked at her wrist she left the bracelet in the room Izarus provided since she would have no idea how it would react to this "cleansing" ritual. The bathing area was quite cold even the bath robe did not help keep the cold out.

Isabella looked to the small pool filled with water, she had to get past this if she is to situate herself with Izarus. Isabella waited for what felt like an age until she heard a knock. The maid opened the door and in came a priest. Well to Isira he looked nothing like a priest in her eyes. The man was tall and built, with fair olive skin he had a long grey beard. One interesting thing about him is that the arms of his robes is exposed and his face and arms are covered in scars. He held a brief case. The priest walked into the bathing area he smiled at Isabella "I assume you are Alivia?" Isabella nodded "I am, you are the priest who is going to do the cleansing ritual?"

The priest grinned "indeed so. My name is Fahim I shall be doing this ritual for you my lady." Fahim walked to the pool he nodded "so the water is prepared." Fahim set down the briefcase and opened it he removed several charms and herbs from the brief case and placed them on the floor near the pool. Fahim knelt slightly and began praying while throwing the herbs into the water. Isabella eyed the water for any changes the only thing she could see is the herbs floating at the top of the water. Fahim picked up the charms to Isira they looked like small golden orbs engraved with the aquilla.

Fahim chucked them in one at a time, as he did so the water began bubbling. Fahim continued to pray until he threw in the last orb. The bubbling stopped as Fahim's prayer ended. Fahim gestured to the pool "can you please step into the pool Lady Aliva?" Isabella removed her bathrobe she is wearing a white gown. Isabella slowly stepped into the bath until the water reached her neck. The water felt incredibly cold but the sensation felt oddly different. After a few seconds Isabella felt a painful sensation It felt like the water was stabbing into her and then drilling into her skin.

Isabella told herself no matter what she can't scream Isabella took small breaths she told herself that she just needs to remain in the water until the priest is satisfied. The priest began to reach down with his hand he grabbed her head and pushed her down into the water. Isabella thrashed slightly the pain got even worse now it felt like she was burning she tried to clam herself to stop thrashing it might give something away. To Isabella it felt like the water is now attacking her she was an anathema to it. The water wanted to end her completely. Eventually the force from her head vanished just rose and took several gasps.

Isabella looked up to the priest who is now stroking his beard in contemplation "It is done." The priest smiled and gave a blessing "God-emperor be with Lady Alivia." Fahim made the sign of the Aquila before leaving. Isabella wanted to get out of the bath quickly it was still painful to be within it. The maids helped her out they had several towels ready. Isabella shivered slightly she wondered truly if she passed this "cleansing ritual". Fahim walked the halls of the mansion he approached the exit and he saw the nobleman Izarus waiting. Fahim walked down the steps, To Fahim Izarus seemed like a person who has not seen a single day of hardship. Fahim gave a small bow "It is done." Izarus wiped his brow of sweat "Is it? She is clean?" Fahim nodded "Yes. the holy waters did assault her but it's more likely due to her sinful lifestyle than anything."

Izarus relaxed "Thank you. I heard rumours that someone was found.." Fahim held his hand up "you should not pay attention to rumours sir Izarus. Rumours can stain a soul if you listen too carefully. Now it's time for me to leave" Fahim made the sign of the Aquila "May the god-emperor watch over you sir Izarus." Izarus made the sign of Aquila "you as well Priest Fahim."

Fahim walked past Izarus who is now going up stairs Fahim shook his head in sadness he muttered under his breath "the nobles piety is fake he is just as sinful as that woman." Fahim turned the nob of the door and walked out. Fahim was on the porch of Izarus' mansion he looked up thinking, Belaris had him investigate the nobles via this banisher ritual since the nobles are so obsessed with the appearance of purity. They in their minds want to appear pure no matter how despicable and decedent they are. Belaris knew of the nobles filthy practice and such practice can easily taint someone. Belaris stroked his beard he mused that the nobles know of the one taken away when he done the ritual upon him his skin blistered and burned. The heretic was taken into questioning by Belaris he revealed nothing no matter what was done to him. In the end the heretic was simply executed.

The noble woman that found the heretic was questioned as well Belaris decided to have her released but only under house arrest her every move is now watched. Fahim chuckled "how nobles like to gossip."

Asriel twirled the knife in his hand he was sitting in one of the lounges in the base. Asriel felt anxious, Sam has largely been sending him on low key jobs. Yes their territory is expanding but Asriel felt it was too slow. it's been about a month perhaps he should be satisfied with their current progress if they expanded too quickly it would attract unwanted attention. Asriel sheathed his knife he sniffed the air he could smell the corruption setting into the gang it's small but it's getting there. Asriel saw it on Sam the foremost since getting into contact with Isira they now have "private" discussions on how to advance the power of gang.

Also since giving pointers to Luke others have now started to come to him for advice. The only one who hasn't so far is Lizzy. Asriel found her rather difficult she wanted to get stronger on her own. Asriel somewhat admired that she does engage with the gang in a sense but to Asriel he was curious as to why she seems such a loner in that small regard.

Asriel got up "perhaps I should talk to her?" Asriel left the lounge about this time he knew Lizzy would be practising her hand to hand skills in one of the open combat rooms. Asriel walked to the second floor he could hear gun shots and shouts as people brawl for cash. Asriel heightened his hearing slightly as he walked down the corridor. Asriel stopped at one of the doors he can hear fists and feet cutting through the air. Asriel listened carefully all of the movements were clean. Far too clean for his liking. Asriel knocked the sound stopped. Lizzy opened the door she gave a small smile when she saw it was him "What is it George? I am practising."

Asriel smiled back "do you want to spar?" Lizzy looked away slightly as she scratched the back of her head "hmm maybe later. I did want to ask you something." Asriel raised his eyebrow "what is it?" Lizzy gestured for him to come into the room. As Asriel walked in Lizzy grabbed a towel from the table and wiped the sweat off her body.

She wrapped the towel around her shoulders she turned to face Asriel "I need to ask a favour." Asriel folded his arms he cocked his head slightly "A favour?" Lizzy nodded "Yes I have been talking to someone.. I think we can get another trade partner. He is looking to make a deal and wants to meet up. He has a host of weapons and narcotics" Asriel stroked his chin "you know Sam does not like when people do things behind his back Lizzy."

Lizzy bit her lip slightly "I know... I just wanted to prove I can get things done. Now what I want Asriel is for you to convince him to pursue it." Asriel nodded he smiled gently "If I do this will you spar with me?" Lizzy grinned "that desperate to fight me? Alright fine. If you can convince Sam and complete the deal I will do it." Asriel crossed his arms "do you know where this deal is taking place?" Lizzy nodded "yeah it's on the lower levels near the drainage pipes. A lot of them are broken but it's an area few frequent so it's pretty safe to make a deal there." Asriel's eyes almost went wide he had to control himself. He could not show even an ounce of surprise to her. Meliva shifted slightly she grew alert as Lizzy spoke "you are aware she is lying? It's clearly a trap."

Asriel did not care it's his shot to save his Lord. Asriel nodded "I will talk to Sam now. No one is seeing him at the moment." Lizzy smiled "thank you George!"

Asriel returned her smile "think nothing of it Lizzy. Now I need to be on my way." Asriel turned away and left the room. As he walked to Sam's room on the top floor Meliva continued to protest "what are you doing?! You should know better!" Asriel hissed "enough Meliva! I don't care!" Meliva growled in anger before eventually falling silent. Asriel briskly walked to Sam's room he stood in front of his door and knocked. He waited until he heard Sam's muffled voice "Come in!" Asriel grabbed the door handle and opened the door. Sam is sitting on a large chair a table is in front him and resting on it is papers and a large map.

Sam looked up "What is it George?" Asriel cleared his throat "I wish to talk to you about something." Sam leaned back in the chair "what about?" Asriel wondered how he should frame the question "there is a possible trade partner we can hook up with." Sam raised his eyebrow "oh really? What are they wishing to trade?" Asriel nodded he took the bait quite easily "mainly weapons and Narcotics he wants to make a meet on the lower level at the drainage area." Sam looked down slightly, Asriel could tell he is thinking "I assume Lizzy put you up to this?" Asriel grinned "what gave me away?" Sam chuckled "the girl seeks to prove herself she does not exactly like being in your shadow." Sam sighed "right I don't normally like it but in this case I will allow it. I want you to head the negotiation just in case of any funny business and you are a smart guy on top of that. Take a few men and women with you along with Lizzy since it's her idea."

Sam got up he walked to the corner of his room, Asriel followed. Sam stood in front of a safe he gestured to Asriel "Could you turn away for a moment George?" Asriel turned his back he could hear Sam pushing several buttons. The safe door clicked open. Sam tapped Asriel on the shoulder "You can turn around."

Asriel turned he could see sam is holding three credit sticks. Sam placed three in his hands "each of them contain 1000 thrones that should be the taster for our new partner. If his goods are legit then trade will continue. Don't let me down George." Asriel nodded "I won't."

Sam crossed his arms "Right you should get to work then?" Asriel smiled he turned away he had to gather the men and Lizzy. Asriel also had to mentally prepare himself because he was still not sure what he would find at that location. He still wondered truly what the bright light and the shining sword truly represents.