The Raven
The Throne Room was just as cavernous and dark as Celestia had remembered; though the Custodes and Mechanicus adepts had done much to maintain the workings of the Throne and the Astronomicon, they still labored in darkness and poor lighting, not helped by the low lying cloud from incense burners that had filled the Throne.
Celestia had ordered the incense taken down. The last thing she needed was to smell foul while tending to her work.
“I have requested your presence that you might bring a new spark of energy to the Mechanicus,” Celestia said as she turned towards her guest, the Fabricator-General of the Adeptus Mechanicus.
“I am honored to be called into your presence,” the “man” said, two mechanical eyes whiring. “But I am uncertain what you mean by ‘new spark of energy’.”
“Quite simply, I do not approve of the direction the Mechanicus has gone since my departure.” divorcing themselves from human emotions had been one of the core tenets of the Mechanicum since its inception, but by the way the Fabricator-General shifted Celestia could tell that he still felt fear. “When the Vaults of Terra were opened, all my secrets and research divulged, why then did you remain as you had been for the last ten thousand years?”
“Innovation is room for corruption without,” the Fabricator-General replied. “In such turbulent times, it would be ill advised to allow such threats to ruin the holy works of the Omnissiah.”
“Yes, but stagnation has gripped the Imperium for far too long, and are the creations I have sanctioned worthy of destroying the foes of Mankind?”
“Yes, but the Mechanicus does not have many of the facilities to-”
“I know, which I why I have drawn up new schematics for the Forge Worlds, in preparation for the Imperium’s revival.” Celestia turned away, striding back to a work station she had built. “I also have present a ‘gift’ for the Mechanicus, again drawn from notes that you seem to have neglected.” this piqued the Fabricator-General’s interest; archeotech at least still held some value to the Mechanicum, even if they appeared reluctant to even try and produce it.
Celestia returned to the Fabricator-General and handed off the weapon. “It appears to be a standard Godwyn Bolter,” the Fabricator-General said, turning the gun over in his hands several times. “Though it feels... lighter, somehow. And the magazine is not standard.”
“This was an old prototype I discovered shortly before the invasion of Terra,” Celestia said. “Somehow it survived this long, and somehow it was neglected. There were a few components that I was able to replace or remove, so it should be easier to carry for both Astartes and Sororitas forces.” Celestia beckoned the Fabricator-General to follow her. Next to her workspace were several targets, giant slabs of stone that had been cut for this very purpose. “Go on, fire it.”
There was a pause as the Fabricator-General raised the weapon, lining up the first of the stone pillars in the bolter’s sights. The Fabricator-General pulled the trigger of the weapon, the roar of the bolter filling the Throne Room as mass reactive rounds shattered the stone ahead. The Fabricator General released the trigger, inspecting the target ahead for a moment before turning back to Celestia.
“Rate of fire has increased substantially,” he said. “Though the added recoil might make it more difficult for mobile units to use.”
“As I said, this is merely a prototype.” Celestia gave the Fabricator-General a smile. “I will be giving you my notes and schematics for your return to Mars. I would like two thousand of these ready in the next two months.” at this, the Fabricator-General scoffed.
“With all due respect, Empress, but even the forges of Mars would take more than two months to adjust to produce fully operational models of these weapons, much less produce two thousand of them.”
“If you follow the plans I have for upgrading the Forge Worlds, you will have no such issues.” Celestia gathered a collection of papers and data discs from her workspace. “I wish you a safe journey back to Mars, friend. I hope to see these weapons in the hands of the Imperium’s finest soon enough.” The Fabricator-General said nothing, instead giving a nod of thanks before taking the information from Celestia. Celestia was prepared to turn back to her work when she spotted a Custodian stepping out of the darkness, passing the Fabricator-General without a word.
“Empress,” the Custodian said, kneeling before continuing. “The young Inquisitor who assisted in your return has arrived bearing news.”
“Please, send him in,” Celestia replied. The Custodian nodded before rising and retreating back into the darkness. Satisfied, Celestia turned back to her workspace, brushing aside a few errant scraps of paper as the Inquisitor and his entourage approached.
Celestia cast a glance over her shoulder as Mattias entered; he looked well, if a bit shaken due to standing before his god once more. To his left was Sister Bianca, the Hospitaller guiding a squirming Angelique towards Celestia. Perhaps that is the ‘news’ Mattias is concerned about. Celestia waited until Mattias was an acceptable distance in before turning to face him. “It is good to see you again, Mattias.”
“You honor me, Empress,” Mattias replied, kneeling. “Though I come to you now with... I’m not exactly sure what is it, to be honest. Angelique’s prophecies have always been rather scattered, but you must know what lies within her mind.”
“The mind is a chest,” Angelique whispered. “And only the key of light may unlock it.”
“So it is an interpretation of her mind that you seek,” Celestia said, stepping forward and kneeling before Angelique. The young psyker shied away for a moment, but stopped once Celestia reached out and cupped the girl’s chin with her hand. “What is different about this particular prophecy?”
“For a while now she’s been talking about a ‘raven’.” Mattias shook his head. “I believe it has something to do with your return, but every time I ask for an explanation she just rambles on.”
“He sees, but does not see,” Angelique said. Celestia furrowed her brow slightly as she reached out with her powers, a small part of her soul brushing against the mind of the psyker.
Anything more, and the poor girl would probably die.
“Tell me, Angelique,” she said. “What do you see?” there was a pause, Angelique staring at Celestia like a child would watch their parent. She remained silent for several moments before speaking.
“I see...” she said. “I see a world, a world scoured of life yet still breathing. It is within the Sun’s embrace, but hidden from her sight. The Raven is there, and he waits to be brought into the light.” Celestia gave a small nod.
“Who is the Raven?” she asked.
“He is cloaked in shadow, but you may know well.” Angelique looked off to one side. “Send the mare, and she will lead him by the hand.” Within Angelique’s mind Celestia could see the faint image of a familiar purple unicorn, trotting off into the darkness. Angelique knows more than I thought. Celestia released Angelique, the little psyker drawing back to Bianca as Celestia turned to face Mattias.
“What do you think, Mattias?” she asked. Mattias hesitated for a moment, the Inquisitor shifting on his feet for several moments.
“I-I do not think I am the one to offer any opinions, my Empress,” he stammered. “You are all knowing, after all, and it would be foolish of me to try and persuade you into some course of action that would prove to be nothing but folly.”
“Long ago I might have agreed with you, but the Imperium cannot be built solely with my power; any bit of advice, any alternate thought that I might not have realized, any of these might be what stands between our victory over our enemies or the destruction of Mankind.” Celestia gave Mattias a smile. “So by all means, tell me your thoughts on this matter. Think of me now as your teacher, not your Empress.” there was a long pause, Mattias looking between Angelique and Celestia for several moments.
“Well... I do remember Lord Markos saying that certain cults often use ravens and the like as blasphemous symbols,” he started. “But given how Angelique speaks of this raven, it does seem more benevolent than an agent of Chaos.”
“Sound judgement. Do go on.”
“As for the sun’s embrace, I don’t know.” Mattias scratched his head. “I believe she might be referring to Sol itself, but that could mean anything from within the Solar System to the edge of the Segmentum Solar.” Celestia nodded as the young Inquisitor continued. “And this bit about being scoured but still breathing... I assume you understand what she means?”
“To be honest, no.” under any other circumstances, seeing Mattias’ face drop in shock would have been amusing, but then potential threats to the Imperium were not present. “But I do believe you are right about the placement of Angelique’s prophecy, and that this ‘raven’ is within the Segmentum.”
“But if I may speak freely,” Sister Bianca said. “There are thousands of worlds in the Segmentum. It could take decades to find one person on one specific world.”
“And that is where I believe the second part of Angelique’s visions comes in,” Celestia beckoned the three over to her work station as she pulled an extra terminal forward. “Tell me, Mattias, has there been a time when you have stood upon a planet’s surface, looking out into space, and you have failed to see Sol?”
“... There have been times.” the Inquisitor said. “It is... unsettling. What does that have to do with anything?”
“With thousands of stars and planets about, who’s to say that one or two may not drift to block where Sol and Terra may reside.” Celestia finished keying in a search, a small map of Segmentum Solar appearing. The terminal whirred for a moment before a list of names appeared next to the image, the list stopping at close to two hundred.
“These are all planets or star forts that do not have direct line of sight to the Sol system.” Celestia turned back to Mattias and his group. “Angelique, can you find the location of the raven from here?”
“It is scoured... or was, once.” Angelique muttered. “The skies burned, and all will burn... but seasons pass, and slowly the scars are healed, the raven’s home unmarked by the signs of treason.” Celestia nodded slightly, stepping back to allow Mattias access to the terminal.
“You understand now?” Celestia asked.
“I think so...” there was another pause before a single planet was selected. It was a small world, orbiting a binary system about two weeks from Terra. “Romana Prime; settled in M.20 as part of the first Terran expansions, but all human settlements were exterminated by forces of the Arch Traitor during their retreat at the end of the Heresy.”
“He sees, and he knows,” Angelique chirped. Mattias furrowed his brow as he turned back to Celestia.
“I fail to see how a world that has been subjected to Exterminatus can be considered ‘healed’.”
“In the ancient days of Terra, forest fires were welcomed by some species of plant, as it burned away undergrowth and allowed their seeds to sprout and bring forth new life.” Celestia looked to Mattias. “It is possible that in their rush to flee the wrath of the Imperium, the Traitors might not have finished their destruction of Romana Prime and that some forms of life have flourished in the fifteen thousand years the world has been neglected.”
“A feral world that is believed to be destroyed would be a good place to hide.” Sister Bianca offered. “I read that the Traitors of Aurellia did much the same.”
“Mattias,” Celestia said. “I would like you to take your team and search Romana Prime for any sign of Angelique’s ‘raven’. Stay for as long as you need, but be prepared to return on my command.”
“Of course, Empress,” Mattias bowed low before continuing. “I promise you that I will not let any threat to the Imperium linger within striking distance of Terra.”
“I do not think it will come to that, but I thank you for your diligence.” Mattias nodded and turned to leave, the trio well on their way before Celestia spoke again.
“Oh, and one more thing,” she said. “Perhaps it would be best if you brought Tara along with you; when I reached out to Angelique, I sensed that she saw a connection between my student and this raven.”
“So...” Mattias started. “You think that Tara is the mare?” Celestia nodded before Mattias spoke again. “It seems odd; I know she grew up on an agri-world, but she does not strike me as an equestrian.” Celestia fought hard to bite back her laughter.
“There are many symbols whose meaning is not apparent at first.” she said finally. “Go, be on your way. Report to me once you arrive on Romana Prime, and please keep Tara safe.”
...
When they had first left, Twilight had been overjoyed to be back on the Sanguinium Martyres. It was still cold, dark, and cramped, but at least the air was fresher than Terra and she could get away from the crowds of the Imperial Palace. Naomi’s Sisters seemed relieved as well, though it was hard to tell as once again the others were doing a masterful job at hiding their thoughts and emotions.
Most of them, anyway.
“So there we were, in the middle of the night.” Judith said, leaning towards Nikolai and Alexis.
“It was daytime.” droned Ruth from her spot next to Judith.
“We were surrounded on all sides by Bloodthirsters.”
“They were Bloodletters.”
“DOZENS of them!” Judith jumped to her feet, the two Valhallans pulling back out of surprise more than anything.
“Only eight.”
“With the utmost calm, I took up Draigo’s sword, charged towards the daemons with the Emperor at my side and...” Judith slammed her hands on the table. “With one stroke for each, I smote the Bloodthirsters and saved the shrine world, and the Emperor’s Light never left me after that.”
“She’s been having this same dream since we were children.” Ruth said as Judith sat down. “She thinks that it’s a sign of greatness instead of some bizarre fantasy.”
“Our most honored saints had many dreams of greatness before their ascendency.” Judith offered.
“They did not dream that the Grey Knights offered up one of their relics to a random Battle Sister to do their work for them.” Ruth countered.
“I thought it was a good dream.” Alexis said. “I’m sure we all dream of destroying all the foes of the Imperium on our own.” he smiled. “I’ve had a few myself, actually.”
“Most of which could be considered heretical at certain points.” Nikolai muttered, causing Alexis to pale.
“Hey, this has nothing to do with that Governor’s mistress!” the Valhallan cried, drawing the attention of all the Sisters in the room save Naomi.
“Your Inquisitor brings with him some interesting henchmen.” the Sister Superior said to Twilight.
“I guess...” Twilight shrugged. “But he’s not my Inquisitor; I don’t really command Mattias to do anything, and he hasn’t asked me to-”
“Most likely because he is unaware that he must do anything of the sort.” Naomi replied. “Your word must be second only to the Empress, yet you still are spoken to as if you were a common Guardsman. I have no disrespect for the Guard, but you deserve better recognition.”
“I don’t mind, though.” Twilight gave Naomi a smile. “I didn’t come here to be worshipped, just to help everyone as best I can.” It was impossible to see Naomi’s exact expression behind her helmet, but Twilight had spent enough time around the Sisters to tell when she was in a harsh mood and when she was not. Fortunately, this was not one of those times.
“I trust you know what you are doing, Lady Tara. By your leave, I need to make sure our supplies are ready.”
“Oh, okay.” Twilight gave a short nod as Naomi departed. There was a pause after the Sister Superior left the room before Veronica laid a hand on Twilight’s shoulder.
“Do not worry about Naomi, Tara,” Veronica said. “Remember what we have been teaching you?”
“I know that you revere those that have seen the Empress directly,” Twilight said, turning to face Veronica. “But I’m still Tara; I don’t need any special treatment from anybody.”
“But that does not change the fact that you are the student of the Empress.” Veronica pointed out. “Some might not know you well, and would not know what to say to avoid offending you or the Empress. It would be... troubling for most.” Twilight shivered. Even the Sisters seemed paranoid about the slightest chance at angering their ruler. How can anyone live in constant fear of those who only want to help them.
She had little time to say more before Mattias stepped into the mess hall, Angelique and Sister Bianca following him. “Listen up,” he said, loud enough to catch the others’ attention. “We have just entered orbit around Romana Prime. Magos Aryll has prepared the lander for transport, and with luck we should be planetside by dawn.”
“What will be expecting us down there?” Nikolai asked.
“Unknown,” Mattias replied. “We have not had time to perform a full survey of the planet, So stay alert and keep rebreathers on you at all times. Fortunately, with the Sisters attached to Tara we have a little more flexibility in our search patterns.”
“Wait, and the raven will fly to his perch,” Angelique said, rocking back and forth on her feet before Bianca steadied her.
“With all due respect, my lord,” Ruth started. “Do we have to bring the w... psyker along with us? She does not appear to be the most stable of individuals.”
“Angelique will not endanger our mission as long as I am here to watch her, sister,” Bianca said. “The little psyker may wander, but she never flees companionship.”
“I’m sure, but I would feel a little more comfortable without the psyker around.” the Sister shook her head. “There’s just too much that can go wrong due to their powers.”
“You know I’m a psyker too, right?” Twilight asked. At this, Ruth’s face paled to almost pure white.
“A-and th-there’s nothing wrong with that!” she added. “Psykers touched by the Empress are blessed! I’m just a lowly Sister, so what would I know? Angelique is a wonderful addition to our mission, and I’m sure my other Sisters would agree with me.” Rebecca, Judith, and Veronica gave quick nods as Ruth buried her face in her arms.
“Guess I’m not going to be smote alone,” Alexis mused. There was a pause before Mattias continued to speak.
“Anyway, we will be sticking close to what I believe are the ruins of the old settlements; if this raven fellow is benevolent, then there’s a possibility that he or she will be drawn towards our search parties and would be willing to return with us.”
“And if they aren’t?” Rebecca asked.
“My team, you Sisters, and Tara should be enough to hold them off long enough for us to make our escape. If reinforcements are necessary, I still have a direct line to Terra.” Mattias turned to leave, Alexis and Nikolai rising to follow him. “The lander should be ready by the time you reach the hangar. We will be waiting for you.” Twilight gave a small nod as Mattias and his entourage disappeared. There was a lengthy pause as Twilight looked to the other Sisters, Ruth finally deciding to pull her head from her arms.
“Well, I suppose we should start heading out,” Twilight said. “I’m sure Sister Naomi will want you all ready as soon as possible.”
“Of course,” Rebecca replied before turning towards Ruth. “Ruth? Have you come to terms with Lady Tara’s abilities?”
“Yes.” the Sister replied. “I’m sorry for my... restrictive knowledge. Most psykers that I have encountered during my life have been actively trying to kill me at some point or another; it is enough to make one wary of contact with another.”
“Well, we’ve gotten along well enough,” Twilight offered the Sister a smile. “I think that’s got to count for something, right?”
“And she’s not actively trying to kill you, so you can take heart in that.” Sister Judith said, earning a glare from Veronica and Rebecca.
“Of course.” Ruth rose to her feet, dusting of her armor before continuing. “We’d best not keep the Inquisitor and Sister Naomi waiting.”
“Right.” Twilight nodded, starting towards the door as the four Sisters formed up alongside her. They walked in silence, accompanied only by the sound of their boots against the metal floor, and would have continued in silence had Judith not spoken up.
“So, what has the Empress taught you?” she asked.
“Taught me?” Twilight replied.
“About being a psyker and all. The only psykers we’ve seen are dead ones, and none of them were ever trained by the God Empress. So...” Judith leaned in a bit closer. “Can you blow up daemons with your mind? Or cleanse rot and corruption with a word?”
“Judith, you know better than to inquire into such powers.” Rebecca said.
“But she was trained by the Empress,” Judith countered “It’s not heresy if it is based in holy understanding.” Rebecca merely shrugged as Judith turned her attention back to Tara. “So, what can you do?”
“Um, nothing like you described,” Twilight said. “I... I can make shields.”
“Ooh,” Judith’s eyes widened. “I think I saw a Librarian do that once... I think. It’s kind of fuzzy.”
“We’ve never fought alongside the Astartes before, Judith.” Veronica said. “You must be remembering things differently.”
“I’m pretty sure we did at some point.” Judith started before Ruth cut her off.
“Shields?” she asked. Twilight gave a small nod as the Sister looked away. “I suppose there is nothing wrong with shields... I’ll need to speak to Sister Naomi about it, though; she might not appreciate you performing acts of witchcraft in a combat situation.”
“It’s not witchcraft if it’s holy.” Judith said. The others ignored her as they turned down the hall towards the hangar, though Twilight could sense that they were coming to terms with the Sister’s claims.
I can always ask Celestia if she could give them an audience and talk about magic... she thought. It’s better than living in ignorance all the time.
The walk to the hangar was a familiar one, Twilight no longer daunted by the massive room as she and the Sisters stepped in. Naomi was there, speaking with Mattias while the Inquisitor’s henchmen assisted Magos Aryll with final preparations. Twilight gave a small shiver as she cast her gaze over the Techpriest; while artificial limbs were not unheard of in Equestira, no one she knew had willingly amputated the lower half of their body for mechanical spider legs and replaced part of their spine with what she hoped was just an extra pair of arms. The red robes that covered Magos Aryll’s body did not help matters, as they shrouded most of his non-mechanical parts to make it harder to decide where the machine ended and the man began.
“I think we’re ready,” Twilight said, catching Naomi and Mattias’ attention.
“Good.” Naomi said, looking to the other Sisters. “Check your weapons before we depart.” the Sisters nodded and moved as one towards the stack of supplies while Naomi turned her attention to Twilight. “Are you sure you are capable of assisting us on this mission?”
“Of course,” Twilight nodded. “I’ve had to find other people before; I think I’m more than capable of helping you find one more.”
“We’ll see.” Mattias replied. “If Angelique’s prophecies hold true, your presence might be more than enough to draw the raven out. If not, it could be here for months before we find anything.”
“But we can always call for more help, right?” Twilight offered.
“True, but I think the Imperium needs its resources elsewhere at the moment.” Twilight chewed her lip. The Inquisitor was right, again; this was not Equestria, where lost ponies had the assurance that a large search party would be looking for them. The Imperium had its own concerns, and what were theirs compared to the plight of a whole Galaxy?
Idealist Twilight would have to wait for some other time to shine. Now was a time for realistic goals.
“Where’s Frederik?!” Twilight was jolted from her thoughts by Judith’s cry. The Sister had rifled through the various supplies they had gathered, panic taking over her. “He’s not supposed to leave me like this!”
“Judith,” Naomi brought her hand to her forehead. “What have I told you about naming your weapons?”
“I spoke with a techpriest, he said it would not be heretical as long as the machine spirit had no objections, and it didn’t!” Judith spun around. “I can’t find him. We need Frederik, or else we’ll be ambushed and overrun.”
“Uh...” Twilight started. “Is there something I should know?”
“It’s a silly thing, really.” Naomi replied before turning her full attention to Judith. “Have you actually considered opening one of the storage boxes?”
“Why? We don’t store bolters away like food stuffs.”
“A heavy flamer is much different than a bolter, Judith,” Rebecca offered. “Maybe you should check, just to set your mind at ease?” Judith paused for a moment, then nodded before moving towards a larger box. Twilight watched as the Sister knelt and opened the box, her face instantly lightening up as she beheld its contents.
“There you are!” she said, hefting a truly massive weapon out of the box. The thing was almost as big as Judith herself, painted red save for a white skull and crossbones on the side. Unlike the bolt weapons, which ended in a little stub of a barrel, the heavy flamer extended further into a pair of holey tubes, to vent heat Twilight guessed. Judith examined the weapon for a moment before pulling it to her chest. “Oh don’t worry; Momma’s got you now, and she’s not going to let go any time soon.”
“A holy weapon older than she is, and she treats it like a child.” Naomi muttered. “I swear, the Empress must have a good sense of humor to keep testing me like this.”
“This isn’t going to be a problem, is it?” Mattias asked. “The last thing I want is for accusations of heresy to start welling up.”
“Judith is eccentric, but she’s a good soldier.” Naomi replied. “Keep her in my sights, and I’ll keep her under control.”
“You don’t always have to treat her like a weapon, you know.” Twilight said, both the Sister Superior and the Inquisitor looking to her. “Just let her be Judith now and again, and she’ll be more than happy to help you when the time comes.” Mattias blinked in surprise a few times, and though it was impossible to read Naomi’s expression through her helmet Twilight guessed it was more of the same. Instinct told her to back down, but Twilight found herself standing firm.
“I... suppose you bring up a valid point.” Mattias started. “But that is a matter for another time. We need to get down on Romana Prime before the raven goes into hiding again.” Sister Naomi gave a short nod and moved to her fellows, calling out orders while Mattias turned back to his companions. That would leave Twilight alone, but for now she was content to just observe her fellows.
Maybe this way, she could find a way for them to break out of “soldier” mode, even if only for a brief moment.
...
The airlock hissed as Mattias and the others got their first clear look at Romana Prime. It was surprisingly sparse, with a light scattering of thin pines across the landscape. It lacked the heavy noise from more vegetated worlds he had set foot on, but as many of them were Death Worlds in one way or another he was happy for the silence... for now.
As the ramp lowered, the Sororitas rushed forward, forming a perimeter around the lander while Mattias, Tara, and the others formed up. Judith and Naomi took center, the pilot lights to their flame weapons flickering as they stepped forward, while the other three fanned out to sweep the brush with their boltguns. There was a long pause before Naomi lowered her weapon. “All clear.”
“Angelique?” Mattias said, stepping aside so Angelique and Sister Bianca could step forward. The psyker paused for a moment, drumming her fingers against the rebreather that she had been given. She swayed about for a moment before turning back to Mattias, coking her head to one side.
“The Raven makes his nest among these trees.” she said. “Search for him, for he is both high and low.”
“Well, so much for a clear answer.” Alexis said, his voice muffled by his helmet. “What now, Lord Mattias?”
“We’ll need to split up.” Mattias said, coming down to the ground. “Groups of two, though Tara should stay close to Sister Bianca and Angelique. Alexis, Nikolai, stay here and guard the camp; we should be back before nightfall.”
“Yes Lord Mattias.” Nikolai said, nodding to Alexis as the two formed up at the bottom of the ramp. Tara followed after them, swaying slightly with each step she took.
“How can you wear these helmets?” she asked, tugging at the Stormtrooper helmet that Mattias had provided her. “You can’t see a thing in them.”
“Not all of us are blessed with the systems available to the Astartes.” Mattias replied. “Stay close to Angelique, and I’m sure you’ll be fine.”
“Sure.” Tara nodded, her helmet shifting forward much further than it would have had it fit her. Mattias turned away from Tara, approaching Sister Naomi as she gave her own instruction to her Sororitas.
“There are no objections if you accompany me, Sister?” he asked, drawing Naomi’s attention.
“None at all, Lord Mattias.” The woman replied. “My Sisters have their orders, though I would have preferred that one of them keep an eye on the Empress’ Student.”
“Sister Bianca will take care of her,” Mattias assured her. “And if all else fails, we still have vox casters, do we not?”
“I suppose.” The Sister’s body language said otherwise, but Mattias was not interested in dragging this conversation out further. “Come, we have your psyker’s raven to find.” Mattias nodded, and with that the groups departed. Mattias and Naomi took a more northern route, skirting along the edge of the forest before ducking into one of the thicker patches of underbrush.
“You are protective of the Empress’ Student?” Mattias asked once he was certain that they were alone.
“Why would I not be?” Naomi replied. “She is the blessed student of the Holy God Empress. To not be protective of her is to invite disaster upon the Imperium.” The Sororitas looked to Mattias. “And are you not?”
“Protectiveness can be shown in different ways that acting as a bodyguard, Sister.” Mattias replied, pushing aside a few errant branches to allow Naomi forward.
“I apologize if not all of us feel the need to act in that shadows like you Inquisitors.” Naomi started, her voice surprisingly harsh. “I cannot say I care for your kind all that much.”
“And yet you listened to Markos when he asked for your presence.”
“I was ordered by my Superiors to assist an Inquisitor in his mission, nothing more.” Naomi pressed on. “I serve the Imperium, my Order, and my Empress. To serve any other would be a most grievous treason.”
“You say that you see no need to act in the shadows,” Mattias started. “But answer me this; why do you feel the need to hide behind your helmet?” Naomi froze, the grip around her combi-flamer’s handle tightening.
“... You know not of what you speak, Inquisitor.” the Sororitas growled.
“I requisitioned your personnel files when we departed Terra; a little light reading so that I would know who I am serving alongside.” Mattias moved so he was alongside Naomi. “And I must say your record both impresses me and confuses me; you have served in many notable campaigns, including the Second Graia Uprising, yet not only have you refused recognition for your actions, you have also refused direct orders to be transferred to training units.”
“The Imperium needs soldiers,” Naomi countered. “I am willing to lay down my life for my people; why would they deny me that chance?”
“Even Space Marines know when the time is needed to train the next generation.” Mattias said. “If I were anyone else, I would say you were hoping that you would die anonymously on one of those battlefields. And then there’s the matter of your helmet... and what lies beneath.” Naomi’s hands were trembling now.
“Please, for your sake,” Naomi said. “I would like to continue our search.”
“I know.” Mattias backed off as Naomi continued walking. “But there is no shame in what happened; it was beyond your control.”
“And that is where you are wrong, Inquisitor.” Naomi stormed off, trampling a few small saplings underfoot as she walked. Mattias waited a few moments until he was certain there was enough foliage between him and the Sister Superior to absorb bolter fire, continuing at a slower pace to check whatever his partner had missed.
He knew the Sisters would mean well, but keeping a closer eye on Tara would not be ill advised.
...
“What do you see, Lady Tara?” Bianca called from behind Twilight. Twilight gave a small swallow as she leaned over the ledge, her hands wrapped around a nearby tree as she peered over.
“I see...” she started. “Well, it’s a ravine, a pretty big one too. I think I see some caves a little farther down.”
“Bats wait in caves,” Angelique chirped. “Their corpses lie broken by the greatest of Mankind.”
“Um... thank you, Angelique.” Twilight replied, pulling away from the ledge and hurrying back to the others. “So, do you think the ‘raven’ might be hiding down there or something?”
“It is worth reporting to Lord Mattias,” Bianca said. “We will have to do a full sweep of the caves tomorrow, though; we are drawing close to evening and I do not feel we would be properly armed for a full search.”
“Send the mare, and she will return,” Angelique said. “The raven is watching, and will wait for the door to be opened.” Twilight gave a small smile. As odd as some of Angelique’s predictions were, they had become endearing the more she heard them. Maybe I can reach out to her like Princess Celestia did, she thought. It might help her be a little more coherent.
“Well, we’ll just have to provide a door for him to open, won’t we?” Twilight replied. Angelique gave a giggle, dancing about in place while Bianca and Twilight looked on.
“I thank you, Lady Tara,” she said. “Tending to Angelique can be tiring, but with your help and the Empress’ blessing she has become much more manageable.”
“Oh, you’re welcome.” Twilight smiled. That smile faded as she saw... something. She was not sure what, but something in the trees had shifted, ever so slightly. Even when watching it, she was uncertain if she had actually seen it, but a small part of her mind confirmed otherwise. Bianca noticed Twilight’s shift in expression and frowned.
“Is something wrong, Lady Tara?” she asked.
“Hmm?” Twilight replied, snapping her vision back to Bianca. “No, I just thought...” Out of the corner of her eye she saw another shift in the foliage. “That... I just thought I saw something.”
“What?” Bianca looked around. “I see nothing, just trees.”
“Really?” Twilight asked, looking around again. The forest was still, save for a wind blowing in from the north. But as she watched, Twilight once more saw a shift in the air, ever so slightly, closer to the ravine below. “If it’s okay with you, I’m going to try and find a way down into the ravine... for later, you know?”
“Would you like me to come with you?”
“No!” Twilight cried, perhaps a bit too loudly. Angelique cocked her head to one side as Twilight stammered out an expression. “I-I mean, you have to stay here with Angelique, right? I can just go on ahead for a little, right?” Bianca did not seem convinced, but she did give Twilight a knowing sigh.
“Very well. I will wait here then, but remember to alert us if you are attacked.” Twilight nodded, turning and wandering off towards where she had seen... whatever it was. She pushed aside a few low lying branches, scanning the forest for any sign of movement.
Nothing. Whatever it was, it would have given Pinkie a run for her money when it came to hiding.
“Hello?” Twilight asked, continuing on towards the edge of the ravine. Ahead, she could see a small path carved from the rock, all but invisible to the naked eye. There was still no movement, but something within Twilight told her to move on. “Is someone there?”
No answer. Of course; if someone wanted to say hidden, why answer the blundering mare asking where they were?
Twilight ventured onward, ferns brushing against her legs as she made her way toward the path ahead. It was overgrown, sure enough, and some of the stones looked ready to fall, but with enough patience she could get down without falling. Twilight hesitated for the briefest of moments, her hand brushing against the hilt of her sword.
This was a new universe. She needed to be a little more... daring.
“Leave, now.” Twilight yelped and spun, but the source of the voice was nowhere to be found. Quickly she drew her sword, the armor-sundering powerfield wrapping around it as she held it.
“Who’s there?” she called. “Please, I don’t want to fight you.”
“Neither do I.” the voice said. Twilight turned about, but found no one; it was as if the voice was coming from all directions at once, whoever it was that was speaking slowly circling her. “Leave. Gather your companions and never return to this world.”
“Why?” Twilight lowered her sword. “Please, tell me who you are.” but the voice had fallen silent. Twilight turned again, but there was no sign that anyone had been near her, not even a disturbed leaf. She hesitated for several moments before putting her sword away, the energy field winking out as she turned back to where Angelique and Sister Bianca were waiting.
“That did not take very long,” Sister Bianca said. “What did you find.” Twilight hesitated. Sister Bianca was a caring woman, no doubt, but she could also report anything and everything to Mattias; while she did like the Inquisitor, drawing more people into a situation that could get them hurt was the last thing Twilight wanted on her mind.
“... Nothing, really,” she said. “But I did find a path leading down the the ravine; we can let Mattias know when we search tomorrow.”
“I see.” Bianca nodded. “Well, we best head back to the ship now.” Twilight nodded, falling in place next to Bianca while Angelique skipped on ahead. There was a lengthy pause, the three women walking in silence broken only by Angelique’s odd humming.
“Sister Bianca,” Twilight said, catching the Hospitaller’s attention. “How did you end up working with Mattias?”
“He needed my help,” Bianca replied. “His previous medicae had been lost to a rogue Kroot warband, and Angelique’s lucidity was in jeopardy. I had some experience treating psykers during my years as a Hospitaller, so he brought me aboard to care for the girl.”
“Oh...” Twilight looked ahead to where Angelique had stopped to examine a flower. “But it doesn’t really seem like you, all this sneaking around and hunting aliens and monsters and the like.”
“The Imperium calls us to take many roles for the benefit of mankind.” Bianca countered. “I am a healer, first and foremost; my duty is to bring relief to the sick, comfort to the dying, and guidance to the lost. If asked I could take up a bolter and fight as I did before I became a Hospitaller, but for now the Inquisitor and the Empress require more... gentle skills.”
“So, you were like Naomi and her Sisters?” Twilight asked.
“Once. I was a Daughter of the Argent Shroud, as proud a Sister as ever. I fought well against the enemies of the Imperium, but I wept whenever I saw the conditions that the faithful were left in once we had to move on. So, when I was barely older than you, I approached my Canoness and took up the vows of a Hospitaller.” Sister Bianca closed her eyes. “Sixty two years of service, so many broken and lost, and I do not regret it in the slightest.”
“You’re eighty four?” Twilight cried, immediately backpedaling once she realized what she had done. “I-I didn’t mean to sound disrespectful, but I just thought... well, you don’t seem-”
“Old?” Bianca finished for her. Twilight gave a sheepish nod before the Sister chuckled. “I suppose it is different where you come from; in most of the Imperium, those my age still have quite a while before they can be considered ‘old’. The rejuvenation procedures the Inquisition provides are an added bonus, I suppose.” Twilight gave another nod as Bianca continued. “But I take it this line of questions is not centered around my age, is it?”
“Well... not really.” Twilight started. “Has there ever been a time where you’ve wanted to help someone, but they refused your help? Or Mattias told you not to?” there was a lengthy pause, Bianca looking ahead at Angelique. The young psyker had resumed her walk, a small bouquet of flowers in her hand.
“Yes, yes there has.” she said, her voice soft. “Those memories haunt me from time to time, but my faith is enough to keep me from dwelling on them.” Bianca looked to Twilight. “It may be the same for you; when faced with the impossible choices in life, faith may be the only light to guide you.”
Twilight fell silent, looking on ahead to keep an eye on Angelique. Whoever had spoken to her might have been Angelique’s Raven, but what good would it do anyone if they could not help whoever it was.
Maybe now, Twilight needed faith more than anything.
...
“Lady Tara is hiding something.” Mattias looked over to where Sister Bianca was standing. The teams had ventured down into the ravine the Hospitaller and Tara had discovered, Naomi’s Sisters forming up with the Student before venturing in while Mattias, Bianca, and Angelique covered the entrances.
“I figured as much.” Mattias said. “What is she hiding?”
“I am uncertain as to that.” Bianca replied. “But when we discovered the ravine, she asked for a moment to scout ahead alone to ‘discover a way down the ravine’. From the nervous way she carried herself, and from the questions she asked me on our way back, I felt that there was more than just the ravine on her mind.”
“You think she found something that might relate to Angelique’s Raven?”
“The mare walks in the night,” Angelique sang. “Only then will the raven be let in from the cold.”
“That is my only thought.” Bianca frowned. “But I do not understand why she would withhold this information; we are all working towards the same goal, are we not?”
“Yes, but there is always a possibility that she does not fully trust us yet.” Mattias looked back down into the ravine. “I figured as much when she and the Empress first arrived.”
“Really?”
“I haven’t brought it up because it is not but frivolous conjecture at this point, but the point remains that young Tara has not been completely honest about her identity.”
“She was born and raised on a small agri-world, if I remember correctly,” Bianca said. “She lived as a codicer for several years before being called into the Empress’ service.”
“And yet when she is alone with the Empress, the two speak a dialect unknown to most scholars in the Imperium.” Mattias turned towards Bianca. “It took me most of our trip to Terra to even find a scholar who knew of it, and it took him even more time to determine that dialect died out centuries ago when the planet of origin was destroyed by the Necron World Borsis during the Vidar campaign. Now how would a young codicer become fluent in a language that has been dead since before the Emperor awoke from the Golden Throne?”
“The Empress taught her?” Bianca offered.
“Most likely, but why?” Mattias looked back to the ravine. “What is it that young woman is hiding from us?”
“I don’t believe it truly matters,” Bianca said. “You say she speaks it only when in the presence of the Empress, correct? What business do we have in inquiring into the secrets of Her Holiness and Her favorite student?” Mattias had no answer to this. Of course, it was silly of him to be suspicious of the Empress; she was the Ruler of Mankind, the God of Order who stood against the tide of Chaos and destruction.
But Inquisitorial training taught him to always have suspicions. Could he so easily give up that training for one girl?
Mattias was shaken from his thoughts by the sound of the Sisters and Tara returning. “There’s nothing down here!” Tara called up.
“Are you certain of this?” Mattias asked.
“We found the skeletons of a few creatures, but they had rotted months ago,” Naomi replied. “If there was something hiding in these caves, it has since moved on.” Mattias gave a small snort of disappointment. Yes, they had only been searching for a few days now, but time was a resource the Imperium did not have much of, and this hunt for a “raven” was taxing that much further than he had hoped.
Mattias’ gaze drifted towards Tara. And what is your role in this, that you would make Bianca of all people suspicious?
“Alright then,” he said. “We’ll extend our search to the south tomorrow; Sisters Rebecca and Veronica spotted a few disturbances in the land that might be sign of habitation. For now, return to your usual search patterns, and alert me to any chances.” The Sisters and Tara nodded, falling into single file as they made their way up the path back to Mattias and Bianca. As they waited for the search party to return, Mattias turned back to Bianca.
“I think it would be best if we keep these concerns to ourselves for now,” he said. “If any other problems arise, we may always speak to the Empress about our concerns.”
“Of course, Lord Mattias.”
...
Sneaking out was something Twilight never did... well, rarely did; there had been a few incidents when she had followed her brother and Cadence on their dates, but that was mere childish curiosity. This, now, was something far greater.
She had forgone her armor, taking only her sword and helmet. She had considered taking some food if she stayed out longer than anticipated, but the presence of Sisters Veronica and Bianca sharing a cup of tea in the galley had ended that thought quickly. Once she was certain she had everything she needed, she slipped through the airlock and out into the night of Romana Prime.
“Stupid helmet,” she muttered as she reached the edge of the forest. “Why can’t I just get rid of the thing?” a crazy idea entered her head, all logic flowing away to nothingness. Taking a deep breath, Twilight unfastened her helmet and pulled it from her head, exhaling only when she could hold her breath no longer.
Nothing happened. She did not start choking, she did not feel light headed, and she was not dead. The air was perhaps the freshest she had breathed since she left Ponyville all those days ago. Guess I can tell Mattias when he comes looking for me. Twilight set her helmet down on the ground and continued on, taking the path she, Bianca, and Angelique had taken on their first day of searching.
With no man-made lights and little cloud cover, the sky above was filled with a multitude of stars. Twilight stopped briefly, looking up to the sky and tracing whatever lines between the stars she could see. She turned, searching for the yellow dot that would signify Terra’s sun, but frowned as she failed to locate it. There must be something in the way... I can always look for it later.
Twilight continued on, using as much of the starlight to illuminate her path. The shadows of the forest prevailed, though, and Twilight stopped herself before she became too lost. Silently she raised her hand, a small purple and white flame forming in her palm and illuminating the area around her.
“Interesting trick,” the voice from earlier said. Twilight turned again, but once more did not see the source.
“If you show yourself, I might tell you where I learned it,” she replied. “Please... I only want to talk.” there was a lengthy pause, the voice having fallen silent once more. Then the air before Twilight shimmered, and she got her first look at her mysterious companion.
He was a giant by anyone’s standards, close to twice as tall as Twilight. His skin was pale, his hair dark and tangled from neglect. He wore only a tattered black robe around his waist, and his chest was crisscrossed with a multitude of scars. His eyes were dark and impossibly deep, Twilight shying away from staring at them for too long.
“I have already done too much for you.” the giant said. “Leave now.”
“Why?” Twilight asked. “Why are you so insistent that I leave, yet you still follow me whenever I or my friends venture out?” The man had no answer, instead fixing Twilight with an unblinking stare. “We’re searching for someone here... is that you?” there was another pause, the man barely moving as he watched Twilight.
“It is not safe here.” he said finally. “Follow me.” With that the man brushed past Twilight, who quickened her pace in order to keep up with him. For his size he was incredibly nimble, ducking through branches and trees without even disturbing a twig, and even with his skin so pale Twilight almost lost him in the night several times.
Given how secretive the man was being, he probably would not have mind.
Once again Twilight found herself heading back down the ravine, the giant having slipped into the nearest cave. The flame in her hand flickered slightly as she entered the cave, pausing only to adjust her eyes and keep track of the man as he went further in. Ahead, Twilight could see a faint glow from what she guessed was a fire, and as she drew close she snuffed the psychic flames in her hand once they were no longer needed.
The man had set up a campfire in the center of one of the larger openings in the cave. He had his back to her, as if he were trying to ignore her, and on the opposite side of the “camp” rested a pile of black and silver armor, adorned by white engravings of ravens and raven wings.
So... this is Angelique’s Raven.
“I don’t know who you are,” he said as Twilight moved around to find a seat. “And I would rather you do not remain.”
“But you’re all alone out here,” Twilight said, finding a suitably sized rock to sit on. “It’s not good for anyone to be alone like this.”
“You are naive to think so, girl.” the man replied, turning his head to gaze into the fire. There was a pause before Twilight spoke again.
“My name is Tara,” she said. “What’s yours?” the man looked up at her, Twilight remaining resolute even if his gaze reeked of disdain.
“... My name matters not.” he said, looking away once more. “Tell me, though, why you seem so resolute in speaking with me, and why you refuse to leave.”
“I could ask the same thing as to why you’re so adamant in remaining alone,” Twilight replied. “But since you asked... I think I’m supposed to find you.” the man looked up at Twilight, one eyebrow raised. “I know it sounds crazy, but one of my friends had a vision about someone she called a ‘raven’, and that he would come and assist the galaxy in its hour of need... or something. She’s not very coherent.”
“From my observations, I can understand.”
“Anyway, I saw your armor is adored with ravens, so maybe this raven she keeps talking about is you.” there was a pause. “I know that’s a horrible explanation, but you’re the only human I’ve seen on this planet, and that’s where she said the Raven would be.”
“Human...” the man mused. “Your generalization is endearing, young Tara, but I would not consider myself among those fortunate to have true humanity.” Twilight opened her mouth to say something, but the words died before they could truly form. She shuffled in her seat for a moment, watching the man as he continued to try to ignore her.
“Why are you here?” she asked. “Who are you hiding from?”
“I do not have to answer that question.” the man said, pulling himself up straighter to peer at Twilight over the flames.
“I know, but it’s something to talk about, and it’s only fair since I already told you why I’m here.” Twilight furrowed her brow. “I know your armor is Power Armor, like the Space Marines everyone keeps telling me about wear. Are you one of them?” there was a pause before the man looked back to the fire.
“I was far greater than any of the Astartes now living.” he said. “I was their commander, a general in dark times when humanity’s fate hung in the balance. I commanded legions of soldiers, struck terror in the hearts of the most resolute xenos, and was praised as a savior by many of mankind.” the man chuckled.
“What a fool I was, thinking that I could take on the task my father had spoken of. Maybe it was desperation, but I destroyed which I fought for... and what kind of man can serve with a clear conscious while the consequences of his actions lay revealed for all to see?” Twilight watched the man as he spoke. He still seemed stern with every word he said, but his eyes had softened, harsh judgment slipping away to reveal eyes of despair. To Twilight it was like watching Luna returned from the moon, begging Celestia for forgiveness for her actions as Nightmare Moon.
Whatever it was that this man had done, it weighed on him greater than anything she could have imagined.
“So tell me, girl,” the man said. “If you think I must travel with you, what is it that would convince me to listen to you?” Twilight paused for a moment, mulling over the question in her mind.
“... I have a friend,” she said. “She was a skilled athlete and... horse rider, well trained in shows and displays. Once, she went to a major competition but did not return immediately, and my other friends and I searched for her out of concern. We found her in a small farming village miles away, hiding out because she felt ashamed that she had failed to claim victory in any of the events she participated in.”
“I fail to see how one woman fretting over a horse race is anything-”
“I’m not finished!” Twilight snapped, the man drawing back slightly to let her go on. “Though she was adamant in hiding for the rest of her life, we begged her to return because while it was sad that she had failed to win, it would have been far more devastating had she disappeared from our lives. Now tell me, your followers and those who looked up to you, would they not be in great despair at the idea that their champion is hiding out here and refuses to return because of one failure?” there was another pause, the man regarding her for several moments.
“I assure you that it is far more complex-” he started.
“Then how about this: the Emperor has returned.” the man fell silent again, his expression somewhere between surprise and annoyance. Annoyance appeared to win out as he looked back towards the fire.
“That would not be the first time I was tricked into thinking so.” he said. “The Emperor is gone, whisked away by the tides of the Immaterium.”
“That’s where you’re wrong.” Twilight rose to her feet. “The Emperor has returned, and the Imperium is on the rise again. It will take time, and it will be hard, but I have no doubt that the Emperor will see the Imperium through this.” Twilight’s brow furrowed again. “If you don’t believe me, come back to Terra and see for yourself. Speak with the Emperor, and maybe you’ll get at least some kind of forgiveness for... whatever it is that you did.” the man said nothing again, staring into the fire once more. Twilight sighed, slumping her shoulders slightly; convincing this man was certainly going to be more difficult than convincing Applejack to return to Ponyville, if this was anything to go by.
“I’ll be back in the morning if you want time to think about it.” she said finally, turning to walk towards the exit. “If you still want to be left alone, I’ll do my best to convince the others to leave.” she was prepared to leave then the man spoke.
“Wait,” he said. Twilight turned back, watching as the man held out his hand. “If you would please, may I borrow your sword for a moment?”
...
Mattias leaned down and picked up Tara’s helmet from where it had been resting. It was undamaged, and from the way it had lain on the forest floor she had made sure to set it down carefully.
The fact that Tara was now nowhere to be found was another matter entirely.
“Her tracks lead off into the woods.” Nikolai said from further ahead. “It doesn’t look like she was attacked, though; they are too evenly spaced to indicate flight.”
“So the Empress’ Favorite Student wanders off into the forest and disappears,” Naomi started. “And you did not have the foresight to keep one of us guarding her at all times?”
“You’ve known Tara long enough,” Mattias shot back. “Did you ever think she needed a babysitter in case she decided to wander off?”
“Yes.”
“You’re speaking to the wrong people, Lord Mattias,” Sister Bianca said. “Perhaps she has gone to investigate whatever it was that caught her attention the other day.”
“Perhaps...” Mattias looked out into the woods. The entire world was still save for the Valhallans and Battle Sisters combing the forest, with nothing to indicate that Tara or any other larger creature had passed through. But losing the Empress’ favored student, especially with Her power being questioned by the Astartes...
If She doesn’t obliterate my soul when I provide the report, Mattias thought. I might just be the luckiest man since Commissar Cain...
“We’ll head back to that ravine again,” he said, snapping out of his thoughts. “If Bianca is right, that is where Tara would be heading. Hopefully she stayed there or is on her way back, or tracking her will be even more difficult.”
“Tracking who?” Tara’s voice said. All present spun around to find Tara pushing through the brush to their right, a small purple fire in her palm. “Oh, I guess I might have stayed out too late... I’m not good with this.”
“Lady Tara!” Sister Naomi cried. “What in the Empress’ name convinced you that wandering out into the night was a safe course of action?!”
“Not logic, that’s for sure.” Tara replied. “I thought I heard a voice the other day, so I decided to look for it. And... well, I found the raven.”
“... Really?” Mattias said, pushing away anger and worry for a moment. “Where is he?” As if to answer Mattias’ question, the shadows seemed to bend as a giant of a man dressed in black and silver armor stepped from the darkness. All color drained from Mattias’ face, his eyes flickering in surprise and disbelief.
“That... that’s...”
“Indeed,” said Corvus Corax, Primarch of the Raven Guard. “Now, young Inquisitor, I would have words with this ‘Empress’ of yours.”