Before leaving to attend to his duties, the Chaplain - now in simple white robes - tells the members of his team: "If you want to talk to me about what we have seen and encountered lately, or about the crossroads ahead of us, or simply to pray to HIM on Terra- just come to my office. I will be there day and night for the needs of your souls."
Deloes will make his way to his office - a small chamber beside the central shrine of the ship where he engages in ritual prayer and muscles movements. He reflects on the boiling hatred and especially the short but brutal fight against the traitor Marines and the demon. He had fallen for the red thirst again, and it was a deep fall this time. He thought to be on board the vengeful spirit, on route to assist his father in his last, fatal battle. Never before has he felt that way but he knew it to be the signs of the blood curse of his chapter. He desperately prays to the Emperor and Sanguinius to give him the strength to endure it, at least for the time until his watch is over and he can return to his blood brothers.
After he had taken the steps to steel his soul against the creeping curse, he graps the first of many large tomes that reside in a big closet reading "Scions of Ultramar - Volume 1". A book that tries to count and describe the thousands of successor chapters of the great Ultramarine chapter. Somewhere in there must be the description of the red scorpions. I have to reread about them to handle the needs of our new member thoroughly.
"Brothers, my concern is not the Necron finding me and I know I would fight with you all at my side. My concern is as follows; as we have witnessed with the teleportation here, the xenos technology is far beyond ours. We have no idea whether they can judge whether we destroy the weapon or not. On the one side, the weapon is effective and it will almost certainly save lives to investigate it a lot further, on the other hand if they can tell if it hasn't been destroyed, then the word of the Deathwatch and of the human race is ruined. Should there be any possibility of dividing our enemies with alliances however temporary, they will be gone and who knows how far their influence spreads. Knowing the ins and outs of the weapon will save some lives, dividing the enemy and possibly other enemies, possibly even avoiding conflicts until we choose them, will save many more. My word was given that I would destroy the weapon 'as soon as we leave here and find a facility or the tools capable of doing that, we are now in such a facility. Once Brother Varryl and Brother Cyberius have conducted any checks they can in the time I have mentioned, particularly assertaining that destroying it will not destroy the ship, I will destroy it. Your insistence is noted, but you have appointed me as leader for now as I have some knowledge of these xenos. Allow me to assure you that the knowledge we can convey about the xenos and what we learnt will be enough, this threat is known about, but we must convey what we have learnt to the right people and soon."
Once the Inquisitor and Cyberius have entered and Xing has given his explanation, Pyros steps forward. "Lord Inquisitor, what we discovered there, I am under oath to only reveal to a small group of people. I know it is a lot to ask, but it is imperative we make contact with Inquisitor Ramseus as soon as possible and arrange a meeting, he will be able to make decisions on how much I can reveal to you. Brother Cyberius, unfortunately that means I cannot tell you more about the weapon, I would ask that you and brother Varryl here conduct whatever tests you can whilst quarantine is completed and in the time it takes me for to take it to be destroyed. A separate oath means I must do this, but I would not destroy the ship in the process. I would also ask that no one is told of your findings except us and Inquisitor Ramseus when we find him. Finally I would thank you for looking after the flamer of my chapter, I will feel better when it rests in my hand again."
Once quarantine is completed and the basic checks done on the weapon, Pyros will gather the xenos weapon and head for the forges to destroy it. "Brothers if you need me I will be in the forges, destroying this and then working penance on the lives that I will have lost for the Emperor, whichever choice I made. Brother Tyreon, I hope you will join me there at some stage as I would know you better if you will serve with us a while. I have a concern connected to my armour that I would run past you as an Apothecary as well. Brother Deleos I would speak separately with you about the same issue."
"I agree with Brother Pyros. The weapons of the xeno are not for the use of Mankind. The sword should be destroyed. I would see it destroyed now if I did not have faith in Forgemaster Cyberius' and Brother Varryl's abilities. It risks the purity of any who study it, and we cannot allow this weapon to fall into the hands of anyone who would attempt to use it," Lucian states, with a stern surety that is unusual for him.
Once the discussion is complete, Lucian leaves the Terminator armour in the care of the Forgemaster and returns to his quarters dressed in an unadorned black robe. He ritually cleanses the small amount of equipment he brought back, mentally planning a schedule of penitent prayer and introspection for the loss of so much of his wargear.
With his weapons properly maintained, Lucian heads to the Apothecarion to have his wounds reviewed and to converse with Brother Tyreon. Unarmed and unarmoured he presents himself to the Red Scorpion, hand outstretched in greeting.
"It is good to see another son of Guilliman aboard. I am Lucian Vartas of the Ultramarines," he says with a smile.
Cyberius agrees to honor the wishes of Pyros and destroy the weapon, but only after he spends time scanning and studying the weapon on the command center. He finds it so intriguing that if no one urges him he will take considerable time before agreeing to move to the forges and attempting to destroy it.
Tyreon does not have much memory of his capture or how he came to be in the Necron facility. You notice that the Tyranid have made many inroads and grown in size, more than you remember of your time. Memories are still a blur and details fuzzy. Perhaps more rest and meditation can help to calm your mind and spirit. You do remember being posted in the Jericho reach at some point in your past, but so much is jumbled and out of order, only time will tell if you're able to repiece your memories.
Pyros will take the weapon from Cyberius as soon as quarantine is complete.
"I will see this destroyed now."
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"Thank you, brothers for your intervention, else I don't know if I would ever have woken. I am in your debt."
Forgemaster Cyberius does not allow you to take the weapon, but understands your desire to see it destroyed immediately. As the Ship's Forgemaster and foremost authority on such matters he invites you to the forges to witness it's destruction. Pyros is at a loss in trying to understand the technology, its construction far beyond any human capability and more unique than any xenos weapons he's encountered before. The forge master takes great care and attempts to "melt" the blade. The raging fires of the forges take considerable more time than should have been normal to affect the weapon, but at last it does begin to break down. Suddenly a violent emerald light flares in the forges, it nearly blinds you, but your marine implants and quick reaction time shield you from the worst. When you turn to set eyes on it again, it has vanished, which isn't unusual for weapons of Necron origins, as Pyros memory recalls from his studies.
"Fine, Brother Pyrus. You have more knowledge about this thread than any of us - thus we made you our leader for this mission, and I will not stand in your way. You choose the way of honor, as expected from a Son of Vulkan. I will pray to the Emperor that the righteousness of his Son will not cost us dearly in the future.
You of course are welcome to meet and speak with me later about any topic you choose."
How easy would it be for a skilled medic to perform an analysis of an astartes gene seed? And if one would try that, would it be hard to detect?
All Sanguinius Successors have the blood curse and they'll do anything to keep it a chapter secret ...
Varryl pays little heed to the conversations traveling about the chamber. Instead he focuses on the results of the testing performed on himself, Pyros, the two techpriests and Xing. His concern is centered on any evidence of the xenos virus having spread to their armors or cybernetics. Elijah's tests are of particular interest given the Necron's apparent 'mercy' towards him.
His concentration breaks as the weapon resurrects.
"Forgemaster, you must remain within quarantine until you are ruled free of infection. Catastrophe would follow if this virus proved capable of infecting the ship's machine spirits. I shall complete the weapon's catalog and assist Brother Pyros in its destruction."
---
"The infection posed as much a threat to us as them."
Varryl gives Pyros a data slate with the map layout recorded by the cartographer and the video footage he recorded of their operation within the facility.
---
Varryl passes the remainder of the journey within the confines of the forges.
Finding Deleos in his cell
Finding Tyreon in the apothecarion Pyros will speak to him, whilst getting his wound dressings changed.
Seeking Brother Xing out, Pyros engages him in conversation.
Pyros next seeks out Brother Vartas.
Lastly Pyros seeks out Ulrich
Once Pyros has spoken to all his brothers he spends time in the forges testing his equipment and fixing his helmet, seeking Brother Varryl's help where needed. He also takes the time to complete the ceremony with his vigil brazier, adding to the many brands that cover his body. The heat of the red hot metal against his skin, offering clarity of thought and a time to think.
"Of course I will help you with that. Nether the less I am sure your actions will cleanse the armor more thoroughly of any previous Xeno infection or heretical use than whatever I or the Master of the Forges ever can achieve. You just proved again that your honor is beyond reproach and your sense of duty is exceptional.
When the time finally comes that you will return to the fires of Nocturne, I am sure this armor will be a relict to behold, the honor for the next to bear it even higher and some part of your righteousness will have become part of it to guide those warriors that follow us.
I will see to it, helping you to cleanse it - it is a teaching of my father Sanguinius that nothing is ever beyond redemption and a brighter future for mankind is a decent possibility - regardless how dark the present days may be. You are right, I heard the story of it and I argued for the release of the armor so that it could be cleansed and its honor restored. Of course I was only a new member to the Chaplaincy at that time, so my vote was not as heavy but it was heard and supported those of others who thought like myself.
And for your last wish, it was heard and noted, although I do not expect that I will have to do such an act. But be at ease, that is the burden to be wear by all Chaplains: to grant the Emperors peace to anyone in dire need of it."
He take a prayer seal and ink from his desk, writing down the newest honors of the Salamander Veteran and his honest intention to reestablish the honor of the armor faith his actions and own honor and blessed inheritance. After finished, he signs it and hands the quill to Pyrus.
"Sign this, Brother and I will later attach it to your armor as I attend to it. It will prove and sign your intention to cleanse it, showing the spirits of the armor a new hope and its future if it is willing to cooperate with you well."
Deleos will then starts to "work" on Pyros armor.
First of all he will search his little library for the appropriate rituals, prayers and tools for that kind of blessing.
Missing any immediate appropriate rituals he also searches for rituals of Pyrus chapter for blessings of armor.
After some days of looking up the right approach - the time necessary for his armor to get repaired at the very least - he will then start the rituals.
Using the most sacred oils and incense he has access to to properly tend to it, while chanting one hundred and one prayers to the Emperor. The room is heated up to the point until even the metabolism of Deleos enhanced body can not bear more heat to reflect the heat of Nocturne.
This procedure is repeated for seven days, until he finally attached the prayer seal which declares Pyrus desire and promise to the left shoulder guard - the side which traditionally bears the brunt of enemy fire.
Ulrich is uncharacteristically quiet during the debriefing, even compared to what is normal for the unusually reserved Space Wolf.
His accounts of the mission to the planet, the fight with the forces of chaos, the discovery of the Mechanicus facility, and the decision to effect a change of leadership are all very clinical; utterly lacking the sorts of emphasis and bravado one might expect from a Space Wolf. He retreats even further within himself during the remainder of the quarantine, though he does respond when others might approach him.
With Pyros and Lori accompanying him, Ulrich will approach Tyreon, "Brother Tyreon, if you are enough recovered, I would ask that you take a moment to examine the wounds inflicted on my companion here," he indicates the cybernetically enhanced Fenrisian Wolf beside him, "and see if there is anything you can do to aid her healing." Ulrich turns to Pyros, "And if you would examine her cybernetics, Brother, perhaps we can have her back in peack condition."
****
After the quarantine is lifted, Ulrich will seek out Deleos.
Assuming you allow him to enter, he lowers his hood, "Normally I would seek out a Wolf Priest. I am more comfortable with them. But you were with me when I, acting as Squad Leader, played into the designs of Chaos and slew the very man we were sent to recover. That I thought I was slaying a Chaos Sorcerer is no excuse, for a moment's evaluation of the situation would have given enough information to suspect the truth. But my hatred of the Thousand Sons controlled me. My rage controlled me. My need to kill controlled me. Are those not the very hallmarks of Chaos? I find myself questioning every decision I make, every plan I form, for they all seem to spring from rage and hatred."
In the room with Tyreon, he speaks with calm reassurance. " I will seek Brother Varryl's assistance, for he is far more versed in the cybernetics than me, though I will assist him. However there is lots I can do, for these damaged plates will need flattening, spot welding and then a lot of polishing. For these ones it will be easier to fabricate new ones, but they will look superb when I am finished, for that is what she deserves."
Pyros will question Brother Varryl and seek his help to repair Lori's cybernetics. He will also remove all Lori's armour plates. Spending time at the forge so hot even a son of Nocturne sweats, he remakes the plates. As the burning heat and the familiar feel of forging tools in his hands, clears his head, Pyros focuses his talents on his work to the exclusion of his own doubts. Drawing on his own chapter's penchant for brands and what he knows of Space Wolf heraldry he works the metal to 'tattoo' Lori's plates. When finished he fits the plates back on to Lori, covering the more delicate parts of the cybernetics. The plates are fashioned to represent real fur tangled in the wind, with a golden engraved head roaring out from her chest plate. Down her flanks run the 'tattooed' images of her rending her foes and scattering them to the four winds.
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The knocking on the door just happens as he finished the first time on his search for information's about the Red Scorpions chapter. That was quick. The quarantine was lifted only six hours before. Ether it is Pyrus or Hammern. Both seemed troubled.
As he opened the door and the dark voice of the Space Wolf becomes audible his guess becomes reality.
"Come in Brother, I have waited for you. I felt the turmoil of your soil since we made it back to the pearl. Have a seat and tell me about it."
While the Son of Fenris speaks, Deleos will observe him closely.
Most of his Brothers are like the wild fires of their homelands but he ... He is more like the ice aspect of Fenris...
As the other Astartes ended, Deleos will lean back and closes his eyes and slowly starts to talk in a very low and vibrant voice as if in some sort of trance or vision.
"Do you know what really happened on Prospero? I am sure you know that your Legion attacked the planet where the 'traitor' Magnus the Red resided on and that, after he fled from the fight against your father, your predecessors burned down the entire planet.
But do the ... Skalds - I think that's how you call those that have knowledge of ancient times - also tells that your father was to attack Magnus, who was not yet a traitor before the attack started?
Yes, your father Lemon Russ was tricked by foul sorcery and the trust into a Brother turned Traitor to attack one of his fellow Brothers.
So ask yourself a question: If even the mighty Leeman Russ - with his unnatural sharp senses, the keen intuitions and the divine blood of the Emperor in his veins – could be tricked by the foul powers of the warp, how should we – the mere sons of our Primarchs – be able to see through each and every illusion, trickery and foul sorcery the powers of the warp may throw at us?
We can not do more than do our best to discern their lies, battle their visible followers and destroy the plans we are able to perceive – and with the help of the Emperor, humankind in his entirety will eventually be able to kill all their followers, undo all their plans and see through all their illusions."
He pauses for some moments to let that sink in, sitting back up straight and looking Ulrich straight in the eyes.
"You, Ulrich Hammern, have keener senses then any of us, and if you have the feeling that you might have been able to see through the illusion given some time, then I am not to question this. I would not have been able to do so, and if you rethink the scene you will notice that if you have hesitated, then I would have killed him instead of you. And even if you would have seen through the illusion quickly enough to stop all of us in time, then what do you think what would have happened? My bet is, that the sorcerer of the thousand son would have his minions immediately kill the Inquisitor before any of us could have stopped them.
Now, to your last remark. The urge to kill the foes of the Emperor. I would be disappointed of a fellow of Russ to NOT have that urge inside of himself – even more so in the presence of the arch traitors, those that fled into the arms of Chaos instead of helping the Imperium in his darkest hour – confronted with the foul treason of Horus the thrice damned.
Nevertheless you have a point. The mindless killing urge IS one of the many POSSIBLE marks of Chaos, so I have to ask you: was it really just the urge to kill? Regardless of foe or brother? Disregarding yourself, only eager to please some entity with the blood shed?
I do not think so.
And trust me, I know a lot about near mindless bloodshed. Do you know of the Flesh Tearers chapter? They are a successor of Sanguinius and they are feared for their berserker-way of fighting. Even deep inside of me lies this fury, that sometimes surfaces and urge me to kill, rip and destroy. You witnessed it yourself, back at the fight against the demon. I was so lost in blood fury, that I though to be participating in the battle of Terra where my father was killed by the Arch Enemy. I am not proud of it and we try to control that fury that is buried inside all of us.
If you wish to, I could teach you some of the techniques to control that fury, but I think your wolf priests already did that at the time of your training, or am I wrong?
Do not question yourself, you led us good and true for what I witnessed so far.
You are as true to the Emperor as I am, Brother Hammern. Pray to the Emperor with me for the soul of the Inquisitor if you wish to do so. He was killed fulfilling his duties as far as we can tell. A death in the duty of the Emperor is a good death after all, don't you agree?"
He gives a half smile to the Chaplain, "Your words have wisdom, Brother-Chaplain, as I hoped they would. I can see that I was expecting perhaps a perfection in action and clarity of vision that would perhaps be possible only from the Allfather himself."
Ulrich rolls his shoulders in a manner of a man stretching the kinks out of them after setting down a heavy burden, and his smile stretches into a small grin, "I think, Brother, that the combat cages will be a good place to work these melancholy thoughts out of my system."
He stands again, bowing with his fist to his chest, "The Allfather keep you, Brother, until the Wolftime."
In response to Pyros' offer to help: [b]The Burden of Knowledge is not to be taken likely. You for one have your own secret knowledge of matters that I was previously unaware of, and that is saying much. These "necrons" are a mystery, but that is of little surprise, as there are countless Xenos and more we have yet to encounter. Though there power and ability is startling to say the least. We must prepare for the eventuality that WAR is inevitable and a way of life for Astartes. Arming ourselves not just with knowledge will mean the difference between success and defeat. Sometimes the tools of thy enemy are the greatest and most effective. However, not everyone is capable to carry the burden of such usage. Very few can be trusted to hold true to the path and remain in the Emperor's light. I respect your decision, even if I disagree. I pray that I am wrong and it will not be a mistake you come to regret. In regards to the text, your assistance is not needed at this time, but I promise to share what I can should it be relevant to our current mission. How was your attempt at destroying the weapon with the Forgemaster? Anything of significance that I should be aware of?
Xing takes break from his research and decides to seek some fresh input into his findings. He seeks out Brother Varryl and confronts him on his consumption of Chaos flesh in private. [b]I must inquire about your actions on the planet while battling the Chaos Legion. You recklessly took time during our fight to consume tainted flesh and desire to know more of what you learned and saw. It might be relevant in deciphering the text I am currently re-reading.
Smiling at the words and visible improvement in the mood of his fellow Brother, Deleos also stand up, gripping the hands of the fellow Marine in the warriors grip.
"I am sure you will find your way, Brother. May the Emperor watch over you. Until the next time."
After a second he appends: "And beware of the servitors of batch D24C, they seems sluggish ... until they gets close. These are a good work of the Master of the Forge, with some surprises built in."
"Honor your armor and the machine spirit will serve you well."
-When Approached to Aid Lori-
"The Magos' modifications to the wolf are extensive. A biopsy will allow me to diagnose the damaged components. Given time beyond this voyage I can further enhance her capabilities. Even replace some of the faulty components the Magos failed to address."
"You speak candidly for one aboard an Inquisitor's ship. Remember that we are among allies but our ally is always listening. As for your question, what little knowledge I gained has already been confirmed by the Necron. Our enemy doesn't know much and we know little more. Our enemy is afraid and that is troubling."
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Brother Pyros spends much of the remainder of the trip working on Lori to great success. He fully repairs Ulrich's companion and learns a great deal in the process, slightly enhancing it further. Lori gets +1 AP from the Salamanders superior techniques and replacement of further flesh that was damaged in the last encounter.
Deleos consoles and becomes a pillar for much of the team to lean on. Though troubled himself, he takes considerable time to sooth his brothers damaged egos and pride. Deleos recieves permanent bonus to his Fellowship.
Brother Tyreon remains mostly alone and isolated.
Xing's studies reveal some more hints at what the team faces and what could come to pass in the future.
Think that is everyone. Let me know if I missed something.
After 3 weeks the ship arrives back to Watch Fortress Erioch. Before your arrival you recieve a message to report to Inquisitor Zerbe with haste.
Upon arrival you are greeted by a man who claims to be an assistant to Inquisitor Zerbe and a group of new Chapter Serfs waiting for each of you.I am to escort you to the Armory to return and store your wargear, afterwards, I shall accompany you to your meeting with Inquisitor Zerbe. Special arrangements have been made for your companion he says to Ulrich specifically. Once she...I mean he...um...It, has recieved inspection it shall be cleared to accompany you freely aboard the fortress.
The fortress seems to be more active than normal, people hurrying and busier than usual, an energy in the air that is rarely witnessed outside times of imminent conflict. There seems to be some talk and excitement, followed by some uncertainty in a few. As you walk the halls you hear whispers of the "Omega Vaults" and speculation of them having opened very recently. The Inquisitors assistant tries to hurry you along and when you finally have finished, he escorts you to a private Chamber where you find Inquisitor Zerbe awaiting you, though he looks busy and takes a moment before giving you his full attention.
The return to the Watch Fortress passes mostly in solitude for Lucian, which he uses for study of his copy of the Codex Astartes.
The Watch Fortress is busy, more busy than Lucian had seen it before, and he hears the phrase 'Omega Vaults' more than once.
It has been many months since the Lucian's last encounter with Inquisitor Zerbe, and he is pleased to see a familiar face delivering their briefing.
After his conversation with Deleos, Ulrich's mood is much improved. While he is still fairly reserved, particularly by the measure of his Chapter, he is positively outgoing by his own standards. He is regularly seen in the combat cages punishing the practice servitors, and occasionally in the apothecarium being treated for servitor-induced punishment. Remarkably, he is sometimes found in common areas frequented by the Kill Team engaging others in conversation and, occasionally, trying to interest the others in sharing a mug of the potent Mjød, the renowned Fenrisian brew that can actually inebriate a Space Marine.
Humbled by Deleos' understanding of his own chapter, and his own lack of knowledge on the customs and histories of his squad members, he spends long hours studying the records available in the ship's archives, learning what he can of the Ultramarines, Blood Angels, Salamanders, Warp Walkers, and Red Scorpions.
****
After Arrival
Ulrich listens to the man's declaration, and while he knows such measures and even deception are necessary, he is loathe to part with the Wolf. He growls a couple of commands to her in the Low Gothic dialect of his homeworld, then turns back to the man. While his attitude is not one of commanding the Inquisitor's servant, he does convey utmost sincerity, "She. Her name is Lori. She is quite intelligent, and can understand your speech. Speak to her respectfully, and do not order her for you are none of her Pack. She will accompany you, but do nothing to her physically beyond inspection without first gaining the approval of one of the Vylka Fenryka or she may object .. strenuously."
Deleos is pleased to return to the watch fortress as his detachment went in a rush and he had not had the possibility to transport his sarcophagus to the ship to rest in it. This old tradition of his chapter seems to smooth his boiling blood and dampen the nightmarish horrors of the nights. He really longs for a long rest period in it, maybe even dreaming of his homeworld for once again.
He is quiet on the walk to the armory and also on the way to the chambers of the inquisitor, without really noticing all the fuss going on in the station.
Pyros is glad to return to the Watch Fortress although keener still to discuss his decisions with Inquisitor Ramseus. He looks forlornly at Surtur's Breath as he returns it. Alas I was not able to take you into battle this time, however our chance will come to burn the xenos.
"Come brothers, let us attend on the Inquisitor, this sounds important."
Varryl remains silent, simply watching as others scurry about.
Xing feels more at home aboard a ship than he does the fortress. Warp Walkers are fleet based and Xing relishes returning. As they make there way through the chambers of the fortress, Xing is still reconciling what has transpired and the consequences of their actions, unsure in whom he could trust with the knowledge he and the others have gathered, paying little attention to the whispers. Upon arriving at the meeting he forces himself to open to sharing the knowledge and actions of his team, still not fully trusting every member of the order Inquisition.
As you all enter a private meeting room attached to the Inquisitors office you file into an empty room with a table and chairs for you all. He greets each of you by name and introduces himself formerly to the new facees that were not present at the last meeting, but not asking any questions he knows the answer to. He does take particular time in meeting brother Tyreon, as his arrival is most unexpected.
Welcome back Brother Tyreon, the Deathwatch believed you lost, but the return of a Deathwatch Champion has lightened many souls. I have sent word to your chapter of your safe return and I am currently trying to get details of your last assignment. You were reported MIA nearly 20 years ago, I hope in time your memories return and you can report more on your capture.This comes as quite a shock to Brother Tyreon who previously hadn't known how long he had been missing, it feels like no time at all has past.
The strain of such a revelation and loss in time slowly sinking in, Brother Tyreon is left to ponder the Inquisitors words without further intrusion.
He turns to address you all after asking you to sit. I have read your "official" report and have come to ask what details you have left out. Since we last saw each other it seems many things have changed. The loss of your initial transport troubles me little, though I must inquire to the details of what transpired before you boarded the Pearl. I did not agree with keeping you men in the dark, but it had to be made to seem real to the Magos and his network. The decision to destroy the vessel cost us a valuable asset, but I assure you it was not in vain. The information was enough to rouse the interest of the Dark Mechanicus and they had a fleet sent to intercept you. Should that ship have continued, I fear not only for your own lives, but the integrity of the mission had they been allowed to prevent your travels to the real anomoly or worst followed you to the system. The destruction of the ship was a necessary evil and a double edged sword. It cut out a high level infilitrator and revealed our hand to their network. Mechanicus figures we had been following have gone underground and we believe they might have been tipped off to our deception. Regardless, that matter is no longer a concern of yours and you all may retain your previous titles and wargear without fear of jeopardizing a larger investigation. I must admit, you have gained favor and allies in your doings, and brought much honor to your chapters and the Deathwatch in doing so. I shall see to it that you men are granted privelages befitting your actions and success.
Once the discussion of those details is finished, he moves onto question you about the actual Anomoly. It will take a while for the data to be correlated and sorted for my review, but I know you went planetside and the reports of Eldar activity were proven to be true in evidence found while in the system. I most curious about the Xenos tombs and how you came upon Brother Tyreon, the xenos weapon, and your teleportation aboard the Black Pearl after your supposed disappearance. Currently the Skittarri are being questioned and their minds and cogitators wiped of any and all evidence after proper interrogation. Then the Inquisitor speaks words in a foreign tongue that only Brother Pyros and Tyreon understand:
Your special training has prepared you well, you need not keep your secrets from me, I give you permission to speak freely in front of your Brothers about what you have learned, but do not reveal the origin of your knowledge. Remain forever Vigilint in the darkness brothers.
Any questions regarding his words are met with stern rebuff as he directs the conversation back to your own accounts of the ordeal. You do not have clearence for such knowledge, we shall speak no more of it for now.
**********
After the meeting concludes and everyone is satisfied, the Inquisitor dismisses you and promises you each extended leave to deal with your own personal issues. In reality though, it means you aren't assigned to another mission or deployed for atleast a month. During which time, many things transpire for each and every member, some things being more significant than others.
Brother Vartas recieves new Armor similar to his previouly issued. During which time he recieves special attention from the Watch Commander and a Veteran Keeper of the Deathwatch. After intense interrogation and scrutiny, you are offered the title of Keeper and your special wargear is customized for you.
Brother Pyros'and Deleos' wargear is authorized for special Inquisitorial alterations and the Forgemaster himself of the Fortress sees to the alterations to the weapons, inviting you to his personal forge to make the changes together. A rare honor!
Brother Ulrich is approached by an aging Wolf Priest whose time of service has just finished in the Deathwatch. At first he just befriends you and gets to know you better of drinks as you rub shoulders with your Wolf pack, but later he explains his intentions more directly. Your recent fame and actions have found you worthy of the Wolf Priest title, and he performs the rites and rituals necessary to bestow the honor upon you, even giving up his own traditional wargear in honor of your service . Afterwards, he departs for Fenris to live out what little days he has left, his age and wisdom are deep and you drink from his well as much as he can withstand during your leave and before his departure.
Tyreon spends much time in isolation trying to regain his memories.
Xing spends his time among the Libraries and training. Let me know what else you're up to.
Brother Varryl's intelligence and renown are noted by the Inquisitor and Mechanicus
alike. You are offered an internal cortex implant, but with a conditional offer that is a perhaps a first in the Deathwatch. A Magos has reached the limits of his lifespan and his request for the "Right of Dupleasence" is being reviewed and you are offered the opportunity to merge with his consciousness, retaining untold knowledge and lore that could be of benefit to you in the future, for both the Deathwatch and the Mechanicus should you choose to accept. [ooc] It's a RT advance you can look up if you have the books, if not, I could outline it for you. Just thought the Forge master alt rank is shallow and not much else for Techmarines available. If you are interested, we can work out the price and details. I think it would be cool and fun for you to RolePlay.
Varryl allows the team leaders to answer the Inquisitor's inquiry. He breaks his silence once informed of their leave.
"There is talk of the Vault having been opened. We should not be relegated to observation if a major operation is being prepared."
----
Varryl appears surprised by the Magos' request.
The Rite of Duplessance, when practiced amongst techpriests, grants both the host and the implanted brain great advantage. To do so himself would hinder his own ambition of unity with the Machine God. Under normal circumstances, Varryl would meet such audacity with blatant dismissal however the subject's rank and the party proposing the union bear great weight.
Varryl decides to meet with and observe the Magos before making his decision. He must ensure the Rite offers more benefit than interference.
-- @Meeting the Inquisitor --
Deleos remains silent on the first part rue to the fact that he was not present on the time being. Despite all the hide, deceive and destruction of valuable military assets and thousands of innocents live - which does not appeal to him in the slightest - he is glad to finally hear the true story behind the mysterious appearance of so many 'black shields' on board of the pearl.
As the Inquisitor reached the part about the 'official' report Deleos looks to his Brothers and then speaks up. "We decided that it would be wise to remain superficial in our initial report until we could return and talk to a high ranking Inquisitor about this. It seems like the black sun anomaly is nothing but a first glimpse of the problems that might follow. We discovered in fact a Xeno station but we also encountered ... you may say living Xenos attacking us..."
"On the matter of the sword of the abomination we broght back with us: It was destroyed on board of the pearl. Brother Pyrus deemed it to dangerous and heretic to use. He also weighted the fact that he gave that Xeno his word heavily - thus trying to prevent hostilities with that branch of Xeno - if possible at all."
Grand Inquisitor, top dog, you can wiki him
As the Inquisitor speaks in the foreign tongue, Pyros bows deeply in response. Allowing Deleos to tell the tale, Pyros only speaks at the end. "Lord Inquisitor, I hope I haven't raised any issues in asking on our return for Inquisitor Ramseus to be contacted, we were unsure as to who we could mention this information too. Further to this, the xenos said that he would find us again to start any conversation. This reason tipped my decision to destroy the xenos weapon, in the hope that we may be able to divide and conquer the xenos if they believe us honourable even to them. Having seen the fact that they could teleport us even into the warp, I do not doubt they could and may contact us away from here. What would be your suggestion on how to approach this? I would not want to repeat my decision if this would not be the view of those with knowledge. Lastly, I was also psychically contacted whilst we were amongst the Mechanicus. I recognised the presence, but could not place it. Is there someone else operating in that area?"
After the meeting with Inquisitor Zerbe Deleos had returned to his assigned chambers - noting that the inhabitants of the Watch station behaves different from when he left. For once they seems to be exited about the Omega Vaults opening at last but they also seem to venerate him the kill team higher than before the mission. Proud about their accomplishments and the honor he thus brought to his chapter makes their way to his feelings.
Back at his personal shrine he kneels before the small but beautiful painting of Sanguinius and prays feverishly.
You're teachings are once again proven, father: The light of hope if brightest in the darkest hour. Know that your sons still strife to fulfill mankind's manifest destiny in your name.
After he finished praying he leaves his chambers again, making the long way down to the forges - or more precisely: The private forge of the forgemaster. In his mind he reminds himself of the message he had found on a dataslate in his chamber after the meeting with the Inquisitor.
"Come to my private Forge once your duties allow for it. I have received clearance to spend significant time and the best available resources to reforge your personal wargear, specifically the Astartes thunder hammer Mk V you brought with you."
The message was signed with the personal ID of the forge master of the watch station and he felt deeply honored by this offer.
As he nears the forges, the well known frame of Pyrus V'Estian appears some meters before him in the corridor leading to the private forge. As he stops outside of the door frame it becomes obvious that the Salamander has the same destination as himself.
"Hello Brother, seems we have the same destination. Did you too get an invitation to the forge master for reconfiguration of your wargear? We are honored indeed! "
The forge master awaits the two Astartes in the middle of the circular room. Resting on two separate work benches are the thunder hammers of the Marines. "Welcome Brothers. I have the honor to reforge your weapons into something new - something fitting for your new status and the dangers to come. It is s long time since I received clearance to build a relict weapon - and now two at the same time.
Enough of the preliminaries ... I will reforge your weapons, using only the best materials available and the best of my craftsmen skills. I can insert a new power core into them, enhance the internal dampers and cabling for enhanced overall performance of the power field and apply some of my own research results to the grips and weight distribution making them easier to handle."
He pauses for some moments to fetch two small stasis boxes. Inside of the blue fields hovers two hexagonal boxes of polished black metal.
"Additionally I got the permission by Inquisitor Zerbe to incorporate these Archeotech devices into the hammer heads. Those devices are able to reduce the weight of the surrounding material for some time. I will couple them with the trigger mechanism and power supply of the Thunderhammer's force field.
You both know full well that the force field of the hammers triggers as soon as you hit an object with them, rather then being active all the time like other power weapons, right? And you also known that the greatest disadvantage of Thunderhammers is that they are heavy and also unbalanced due to the heavy head. I intend to use these Archeotech devices in such a way that they counter both those disadvantages, making you able to strike and also parry with the hammers as fast as you would with a common power sword."
Despite his lack of expression in the heavily augmented and century old face, the forge master seems to smile at this explanation.
"And last: I conferred with the representatives of your chapters about my undertaking as both your weapons originate back to them in the first place. They agreed on the procedure and send ahead sacred materials of your chapters to incorporate into the weapons, so that any foe of the Imperium will know by what blessing and authority they will be slain. Chaplain Deleos, the Chaplaincy informed me that they will perform a gathering of all its currently present members as soon as the weapons are finished to sanctify and bless them with all the authority of the Deathwatch and the Ecclisiarchy."
He turns to Pyrus: "Brother, the transport of the Salamander materials is expected to arrive in a few days, lead them to me as they arrive so I can incorporate them in time."
Turning back to Deleos he adds: "The Blood Angels material had a shorter way. A Priest of your chapter has come down mere hours ago and gave me this:", he points to a small ball seemingly made of glass with a tiny red dot in the center. "It is a drop of blood from his chalice, encased in a vacuum sphere of unbreakable No'Otian glass."
Deleos is visibly moved by this gift from his chapter. A droplet from a Blood Chalice – they once hold the very essence of Sanguinius himself and every initiate drinks from them as they start their ascension!
After moments of awe, he bows before the Forge master with deep respect. "Master of the Forge, know that my chapter values craftsmanship and artisans higher than most, and many of us are skilled artisans themselves but you are indeed a Master Artificer and I am deeply honored by your offer and all the time you are willing to spend on this work of art and craft. I will thank the Emperor for your skill and work this evening."
With the warrior grip he finally leaves the Forge Master to his work, knowing full well that it will likely take him months to finish.
Inquisitor Zerbe listens intently to each of you, usually remaining silent as he absorbs all the information and discerns the half truths from original reports.
You were correct to contact Inquisitor Ramseus, she and I have been in regular contact every since. Unfortunately she has her own pressing matters to attend to....That being said, she has requested some additional support from the Deathwatch, while I had planned to send some fresh marines to aid her, in light of recent events, she requested your squad in addition to. I am gathering and recalling a number of specialist, those who have had prior training and initiation into the lore of this specific xenos threat. Those brothers are few and spread far, but it is necessary for the task before us carries the greatest risk we may have ever encountered. The news that the Necron may be split in their allegience is too good an oppurtunity to pass and we must be vigilent in pursuing every option available to us at this time. In approximately 3 months time, your transport and the men we are gathering shall be fully assembled and ready for deployment. Brother Vartas, you are the likely candidate to Captain the newly commisioned vessel that is near completion and will be on route within our timeframe. Much will depend on decision of the Watch Commander and his plans for each of you. Many great things are in store and soon all shall be revealed to you. Use this time wisely to prepare and ready yourselves for the coming mission. I will be updating you as we progress and Inquisitor Ramseus and I come to agreement on the best course of action. Recently the Omega Vaults have opened and revealed something quite mysterious, but I can not say more at this time. However, I have assigned Brother Xing to be among the team examing and stuying what we have found. When the time is right you will be briefed further. For now I suggest you tend to your own personal duties and the tasks that await you. If there is no further questioning, I will leave you be and will contact you again once there is need. Until then, speak to no one else of what has happened and keep to your official reports. If you find you have additional time on your hands, you may contact me individually, as I may have some use for you.
Lucian listens carefully to the Inquisitor, absorbing the information and attempting to fit it around the things the Kill-Team had recently learned about these Necrons and the mysterious threat from the Warp which had been revealed by them. Once the inquisitor has finished, Lucian speaks up.
"My thanks for your candour, and the trust you put in each of us, Lord Inquisitor. Rest assured that we will be ready for whatever you would have us do. Should I be chosen to captain our new vessel, I would talk with you about that in order that I am can properly prepare. I have been summoned by the Watch Commander for a meeting, but once we are concluded I would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you to discuss your plans further, if that is acceptable?"
Ulrich is noticeably relieved when they are informed that they may resume their former identities; clearly the deception weighed heavily on the Space Wolf. During the debriefing he is mostly quiet, adding a detail only when it is helpful to the narrative.
Once the Inquisitor is finished, Ulrich salutes before stepping back toward the door, "Thank you for your time, Lord Inquisitor. I am at your service, of course." If there is nothing further, Ulrich leaves the meeting room with the rest of the kill team.
***
After the Meeting
As the kill team exits the Lord Inquisitor's meeting room, a Space Wolf in Deathwatch colors and bearing a helm fashioned to resemble a wolf's skull stands a little ways down the corridor. He is old, his hair and beard long and white and his canines grown into impressive fangs. His armor is of the very highest quality, but lacking in many of the embellishments typically lavished upon such a relic. A jet black Fenrisian wolf sits beside him, tongue lolling from its open jaws as it watches the approaching Marines with an intelligence above that of any average beast.
Without a word, Ulrich steps aside from his team and takes a knee before the aged Wolf Priest, saluting him with gravest respect, "Hail, Honored Brother, I am Ulrich Hammern. It gladdens my heart to see one of the Vylka Fenrika here, especially one of the Wolf Priests. Long have I been apart from the company of the Rout, and the wisdom of its Elders."
The Wolf Priest smiles a little wistfully at the younger Wolf and rests his right hand on Ulrich's head for a moment before raising Ulrich back to his feet with a gesture, "I am Asger Longspear. Perhaps, young Hammern, you would keep an old man company for a time if your duties allow. My vigil is nearly done, and I would spend the last days of it in the company of another Wolf."
Ulrich nods, fighting to keep the awe he feels for Asger from his face and voice, "I find that I have some time before my next call to duty. It would be my honor, Asger Longspear, to share a tankard with you ere you return to the Rout."
Asger raises his eyes to the others of Ulrich's kill team, "And if the duties of those who have been as brothers to a brother of mine allow, they are welcome at my table."
--Back after the meeting--
Deleos nods to the Wolfpriest, knowing him well from the initiation meeting as he was promoted to a deathwatch chaplain.
"Of course Brother Asger. It will be an honor. I will come - later after my duties have been seen to."
As he works the bellows and heats the tools, he allows his mind to wander over the memories that his many brands represent and focus on the moments of the last mission worthy of new brands. His old body is covered in the small brands, some barely recognisable, defaced by the scar tissue of a life of war.
Placing a polished bronze mirror on the table, he lifts the red hot tools, combining them to create his desired design and places them against his right cheek, following the line of his jaw.The burning heat helps to cleanse his mind of any remaining doubts from the last mission and prepare him for the next. Returning the tools to the fire he brigs up a different combination to add the second design next to the first. The ritual complete he allows a the fire to die down whilst he readies himself for his meeting with the Forgemaster. Despite knowing that his work is clumsy and crude compared to that of a Forgemaster, Pyros cleans and polishes his weapons and armour before meeting him. After all such a great honour deserves the best Pyros can do in return.
"Hail Brother, indeed it does. It would seem we are very honoured, they do not do these things lightly."
As the Forgemaster explains his intentions, Pyros looks to his colleague to see if the expression of awe matches his own.
When the Forgemaster finishes, Pyros bows low, "Honoured Forgemaster, I am deeply honoured by your offer. However I must ask one more boon. As you know, my chapter hold the forge in a place of high honour, as such we all practice forgecraft to a greater or lesser extent. That hammer is my creation and I have poured my sweat, my blood and even my tears into it. I do not have the skill to improve it as much as you can, but I would like to be involved. To work the bellows, to bring the parts and the tools you may require, then my soul will rest easier knowing that I have done my best and the hammer will sit firmer in my hand to punish all our Lord Emperor's foes. I will go now to await the arrival of my chapter brothers, but I hope you will think on this."
"Come Brother Pyros, there is no need to stand on such ceremony, we are old warriors and it is not good for us. Come let us find a warm corner of a forge somewhere and I will tell you of why I have come." Once the two old warriors are safely ensconced in the blistering heat next to a forge and the memories of old battles fought together have been mulled over, Vulkan comes to the point. "Brother Pyros it is lucky happenstance that I was in the right place at the right time to be the one to bring these items to you, for it has been a privilege for me to get to see an old friend honoured in this way. I was already planning to come here, for I must speak with Inquisitor Zerbe on matters to do with my search, but it seemed a good excuse to come a little earlier. I have here some drakescale for you to wrap the grip with and here I have this remnant from the armour of Su'Matr before he was cased in his dreadnought sarcophagus. It contains a diamond from the depths of Nocturne, fix this to the flat of your hammer and it will allow your blows to strike with the power that Su'Matr had as living warrior. Your chapter is proud of you Pyros, you bring us great honour. Now I must go after this rejuvenating heat and see the Inquisitor, but I hope the Emperor will guide our paths together soon. Into the fires of battle my brother"
" Unto the anvil of war. Thank you honoured Forgefather, you have granted me a great honour. I will walk on now with the strength I had 100 years ago."
The Librarian thanks the Inquisitor for assigning him to such an important task. What ever lie within those vaults...he begins to think, but brings his focus back to the end of the meeting. I shall report immediately to begin work with the research team.
Xing did not have any greater ambitions for position or rank. He merely wished to be out on a mission discovering knowledge first hand, not reading and researching what others already have. To be assigned to examine actual contents from the Omega Vaults was a rare opportunity, but one he felt he deserved.
Why is everything dark?
I open my eyes again and again yet they see nothing. Am I blinded? No I would feel if my eyes were gone. I would know if they had taken them from me.
Then why is there nothing but darkness?
They must be depriving my senses. Trying to break me after everything else has failed. This won't work, my mind is to great for such a paltry tactic.
I know they want to know what I know but I won't let them. That must be driving them mad out there. Out beyond the dark. They must surely know that I've won again. They must know that I've won. Now their just being petty. Jealous of how I've out maneuvered them within the confines of their own interrogation.
They lack the creativity to break me. Their ability to create a scenario in which I lose is beyond all that they know. No matter how much they know they can never know how to know what I know. Such is the gift of knowledge. Knowing. Knowing the things I know and the things they don't know and everything they want to know.
Thats a funny word. Know. I like the way the word forms. Two consonants, a verb and another consonant. Know. So much like Will.
Will. Wait. That can't be right. What does the word predilection have anything to do with the Amber Throne.
Ah the lights are back, the cherubs must want something.
As the months pass, distant memory of your last meeting barely remains in your afterthoughts. The squad so immersed in their own duties and training hardly finds time to communicate with each other. However, after nearly 4 months you get word that sufficient reinforcements have arrived and a new ship will will arrive within days to take you on your next mission.
Brother Varryl has undergone surgery and remained in recovery for a long time. Attempts to visit him where shunned by the Priests and guards, which is unusual and peculiar to anyone who attempted to check up on Varryl.
Xing is barely seen as he spent most of his time in research and study in secure parts of the fortress, probably never crossing paths with anyone in the squad.
Pyros and Deleos spend considerable time in the forges working on the weapons and awaiting necessary pieces. The are completed only a week before the team is summoned for their next mission briefing.
Hammern spends time learning the traditions and ways of the Wolf Priest, as well as getting to know Lori better. When he emerges he has different armor and weapons than he previously wielded.
Vartas undergoes the most gruelling of rituals and initiation rites. Nominated to become a Keeper of the Deathwatch, his months are spent in interrogation and conditioning. He emerges a stronger and wiser brother, trusted to hold a special key that unlocks untold doors. He is also trained in anticipation of his new post as Captain of the new vessel that would carry he and his squad, along with as many reinforcements available, to aid Inquisitor Ramseus.
Brother Tyreon regains most of his memory during their leave, as he trains and re-conditions his body for fighting. He is also given new weapons to represent his status as Champion.
You all once again convene in the office that you last met in together, along with Inquisitor Zerbe. He welcomes you all quickly turns serious after arriving late, giving you all plenty of time to catch up before his arrival.
He first fingers some controls and the image of a ship appears as a hologram. This will be your transport and home for the forseeable future. No expense or resource has been spared in preperation, for this mission may well define the destiny of the Imperium.
Following the briefing Lucian is called to the heart of the Watch Fortress by a parchment message borne by a servitor in the black of the Deathwatch. Clad in a simple robe of black and silver, and without any indication as to why he has been called, he feels unprepared and uninformed. The room into which he is led by the servitor is bare and unadorned. An iron bench is the only furniture and as the servitor leaves Lucian sits down. The door seals shut and the room is plunged into darkness.
+++Lucian Vartas. Son of Ultramar. Bearer of two Iron Skulls. Veteran of the Deathwatch. What is your purpose?+++ crackles a voice from an unseen voxspeaker.
"To serve the Emperor," Lucian replies. He waits in silence for a response, but none comes. The dark is oppressive, even to his genhanced vision. The only sound is the sound of his own breath in his ears. An insidious cold begins to creep into his extremities.
Hours pass with no change to his surroundings. Again the voxspeaker crackles, the voice unidentifiable amidst the static. +++What is your purpose?+++
"To serve the Emperor," Lucian responds as before.
The silence returns, and the darkness persists. Lucian's sense of time tells him that over 12 hours have passed. This is merely a test, he thinks, and uses his sus-an membrane to enter a regenerative state. More hours of nothingness pass.
Many days go by in silent darkness, with Lucian's only outside contact being intermittent questions from the voxspeaker. He is asked about his purpose, about his goals, and about his strength. Answering truthfully and honestly each time, his responses are met only with silence. He passes his time with callisthenics, medication on memorised tracts of the Codex Astartes, and sus-an regeneration.
Weeks pass, and Lucian begins to falter. His superhuman physiology is starting to struggle to support him without water or nutrients, and his mind is as not as strong as it was onday one of his testing. A single glimmer of failure enters Lucian's mind, before a spike of pain slams itself through his forehead. The psychic probing is stronger than any Lucian has ever felt before, and he marshals every defence he has to repel it. His world becomes a struggle of pain and blinding light. He loses all track of time, and eventually passes into the welcome relief of unconsciousness.
Lucian awakens to find the cell door open, and a power armoured figure standing above him. "Brother Vartas. The Watch Commander is satisfied," states a familiar voice, that of Watch Captain Erioch. Lucian rises slowly, every muscle group aching with cold, his head still pounding. "98 days is, I believe, a new record," the Watch Captain says. "No-one has ever held out for so long and survived as wholly as you have." He leads Lucian outside into an adjacent chamber. The light of the passageway is almost blindingly bright to Lucian's eyes, and it takes some time before he can see again.
"This is yours, Keeper of the Deathwatch," the Watch Captain says, indicating Lucian's wargear. "You were tested, and found to be sufficiently strong of mind, body, and purpose. By taking on the mantle of Keeper, you pledge yourself forever to the Deathwatch. You will never return to Ultramar. You will never again fight alongside those in the blue and gold of Macragge. You are a Keeper, and you will serve the Deathwatch until called to serve at the Emperor's side. Do you understand this?"
"I do, Lord," Lucian replies, his voice weak and harsh.
"Then don your wargear, and make yourself ready for the coming storm," states the Watch Captain, handing Lucian a vambrace of ancient design. "This is your Clavis, the symbol of your authority aboard the vessel you will command, and a symbol of your position as a Keeper of the Deathwatch. It will open many doors for you, both literal and metaphorical."
Lucian dons his wargear with the assistance of a Deathwatch serf and an arming servitor, watched over by the Watch Captain. He clasps the clavis onto his left forearm, and straps a new power sword to his right hip. Armed and armoured for the first time in months, Lucian follows the direction of his helmet display to a briefing with the Inquisitor.
The Hologram ship is unlike any you've ever seen. The look is definately human, but there are components that look unfamiliar.
The cruiser class vehicle appears to be not very threatening at first glance, giving the marines pause, as they wonder what could be so special about such a ship.
Inquisitor Zerbe continues:
This is the "Dark Tide." A one of a kind ship that was wrested from a space hulk and has been undergoing repairs and retrofit for nearly a century. The coordinates were given to us by the Omega Vault long ago, but no mention of what we would find was given, merely a date and coordinates that we had to investigate. She is truely special and very experimental by our current understanding of the technology....
Deleos enters the meeting, only wearing his Chaplain robes and the golden rossarius around his neck and a smile on his angelic face.
He seems to be more at easy than ever before and looks ready - yes eager - for action. Nodding at everyone present, he takes up position beside Ulrich with whom he had talked many a hour in the last months. At the mention of the ship being wrested from a space hulk, his face darkens but lightens quickly upon hearing the long repair time.
"It is a good sign that humanity was able to retain one such a mighty ship from such a cruel destiny. It is as Sanguinius tolds us: Nothing is ever beyond hope and redemption."
He leans forward for a better look at their ship.