Praise and Condemnation
Twilight arched her back as she woke up, sheets tumbling off her body into a heap on the ground. Even though the room she had been provided was almost the size of the ground floor of her library, and the bed far larger and more comfy than the one she had aboard the Sanguinium Martyres, she was still having trouble sleeping. Every one of her joints and muscles seemed out of place, crackling as she tried stretching out.
The window on the far side of the room would have given Twilight an impressive view of the palace and Terra beyond, but all she could see was smog and a few blinking lights to direct air traffic. Still, Twilight found herself staring at the smog cloud as she got dressed; perhaps it was in the vain hope that she would see something, anything beyond the veil, or perhaps it was merely a reminder of just where she was.
Who knows how far from home, in a universe that by all accounts wants to kill me, and nothing secure to fall back on, Twilight though as she finished the last of the clasps to her new robes. At least I still have the Princess...
Fully dressed, Twilight stepped away from the window and out into the hall, taking a moment to catch her breath as she adjusted to the change in the air of the main hallway. For all its splendor, the Imperial Palace seemed rather short on several basic needs, consistent air filtration being one of them. The hallway stretched on for as far as Twilight could see, disappearing into a haze of shadow and what she hoped was incense smoke.
It had been a flurry of activity since the meeting with the High Lords; Mattias and his team had disappeared, leaving Twilight alone amongst a sea of curious and reverent passersby. Sister Naomi and her squad had helped, forming up around Twilight as they escorted her further into the Palace, but in the process Celestia had disappeared within her own crowd of adoring subjects. Not even her appearances back in Equestria drew in such fervor... but then, directly worshipping Celestia as a god was more of the exception, not the norm.
Twilight started off down the hall to her left, the sound of her shoes against the floor echoing far down the hall. Windows to the outside world were soon replaced by statues and tapestries, images of heroes and leaders long since passed looming over her. The most prominent, and perhaps eye-catching, was one of what Twilight assumed was Celestia’s old form, a powerful man standing triumphantly over a fallen dragon. Whoever had made the tapestry had obviously taken great care in creating the piece, dozens of minute details hidden away beneath every line and curve of the figures. Still, the stern gaze of the Emperor sent a chill down Twilight’s back, and she quickly averted her eyes as she continued forward.
In turning about, she almost smacked into Sisters Ruth and Judith coming the other way.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” Twilight said, backing up slightly from the Sororitas.
“The fault is all ours.” Ruth replied, giving a quick shake of her head. “We were the ones not paying attention, and in our inattentiveness we failed to notice you had been wandering outside your quarters.”
“I noticed her,” Judith said, but Ruth ignored her.
“Regardless, we have come to ask you if there is anything you need, and if... if...” Ruth’s face flushed red before she mumbled the rest of her request. Am I really that intimidating? Twilight thought before giving the Sororitas a smile. Enough time spent around Fluttershy had taught her how to deal with shy people.
“There’s no need to rush,” she said. “Just ask me what you want when you’re ready.”
“She’s usually the more forceful one.” Judith chirped. “Sister Naomi usually keeps her held back when we need to make requisitions... there was an incident with an Administratum Adept that got out of hand.” Ruth’s face flushed red, only this time from anger instead of embarrassment.
“He was impeding the holy work of our Sisters!” she cried, turning back to face Judith. “Had he continued, all of those people would have been lost to the cultists!”
“You still didn’t have to brain him with his Servo Skull, though.” Judith countered. “The poor thing wasn’t doing anything wrong...”
“Hey now, there’s no need to start arguing,” Twilight said, raising her hands to catch the Sororitas’ attention. “We’re all still friends, right? So maybe we can just set this aside for now and I can help you with... whatever it was that you wanted me to help with.” There was a pause as Ruth’s earlier anger faded.
“You are right,” she straightened up and gave a small nod. “Apologies, my lady, it was... inappropriate for me to act in such a way.”
“That’s alright,” Twilight’s smile was replaced with confusion for a moment. “Why ‘my lady’?”
“You’re the Emperor’s personal student.” Judith said. “Or... I guess it’s ‘Empress’ now. But as Her Personal Student, you carry the same standing and power as one of the High Lords themselves.”
“I-I do?”
“That’s how Sister Naomi explained it when we were debrief following the Empress’ return.” Ruth added. “As such, we are required to show you the same respect as we would any High Lord of the Imperium... even if they did call the Empress a heretic and blasphemer.”
“Oh...” there was another pause before Twilight spoke again. “Well, you don’t really have to be so official with me.”
“Really?” both Sisters asked.
“Yes. I mean, sure I might have been trained by P-... the Empress, but I’m still just another human like you two. You can just call me Tara if you’d like.” there was another pause before Judith giggled. “I-Is there something wrong with that? I’m not used to these sorts of things, and there are times when I kind of stumble over what am supposed to do and I embarrass myself-”
“It’s not that.”Judith said. “It’s just... Tara. No disrespect, but your parents must have really been seeking the Empress’ favor when they named you that.” at this, Ruth responded by slapping Judith in the back of the head, a metallic clang ringing off the Sororitas’ helmet.
“How dare you mock the Empress’ Chosen Student!” Ruth cried.
“I’m not trying to mock her... but it’s Tara, and she’s on Terra.” this received another slap from Ruth. “Okay, maybe I did deserve that one.”
“Sometimes it’s a wonder why you haven’t been smote for your antics.” Ruth grumbled, taking a moment to compose herself before speaking again. “Forgive Judith. She’s... Judith.”
“I understand.” Twilight replied. “Was there something you wanted to ask me earlier?”
“Oh, y-yes.” Ruth nodded a few times before speaking. “We were hoping that... if you are free from your duties to the Empress, of course... we were hoping that you would join us for our morning prayer.” there was a pause as Ruth’s blush returned. “W-we understand if you say no. Far be it for us to impede on the work of the Empress, and as you are her student that work must be very great indeed... As I think on it, perhaps this was a bad idea. Sorry for disturbing you, my lady.” Ruth hurriedly bowed and made to leave, but Twilight stepped forward to stop her.
“Wait,” she said. “There’s no need to be embarrassed. I would love a chance to join you and your Sisters.”
“Really?” Ruth asked, before trying her best to compose herself. “I-I mean, thank you for honoring us with your presence. If you would please follow us, we will conduct you to our quarters.” Twilight gave a small nod as she fell in step with the Sisters, the tapestries and paintings flicking by as they walked.
I can keep working at trying to make them less formal, Twilight thought. It couldn’t hurt, could it?
“So, Ruth,” Twilight started. “You said that you’ve always served your... um... ‘Order’ is the right term?”
“Yes.” Ruth nodded. “I never knew my parents; the Sisters always told me that my mother was a young Underhiver who could not care for me, so she gave me to the Church in hopes that I could live a better life. The first words I spoke were praises to the Emperor, the first texts I read were the writings of great saints and heroes.” she looked over to Twilight. “But I would never trade it for an instant; my sisters and I have done good work, battling against those that would see the Imperium in ruins, and even if I must give my life in service it will ensure that others do not have to do the same.”
“Oh.” there was a pause before Twilight spoke again. “I can see why having this opportunity to see the Emperor... ‘Empress’... I can see why it means so much to you.”
“She’s a bit more vocal than most,” Judith said. “We all wept for joy when we learned we were being brought to Terra, but Ruth wept for two days after we got our orders, and again when the Empress revealed Herself, and again when-”
“Judith...” Ruth growled.
“I’m not saying it’s a bad thing. You’re just very fervent in expressing your faith, and that’s a good thing.” Ruth looked away, though at least she was calm again. Twilight now turned her attention towards Judith, the other Sister shrinking away slightly. “I’m not judging my Sister’s faith; she is a loyal servant of the Imperium, probably even a better servant that I will ever be.”
“I’m not judging you.” Twilight replied. “You just seem a bit...”
“Scattered?” Ruth suggested. “Judith has always been like that, ever since she showed up in the barracks brimming with delusions of grandeur. It shouldn’t be right to place so much optimism in her life and abilities.”
“My parents always taught me that the Emperor was like a stern father,” Judith said. “He may discipline you and place you in trials, but He is always doing so for the betterment of you and your family, and He is ready to catch you should you stumble.” though she still wore her helmet, it was not hard for Twilight to tell that Judith was smiling. “It always made a little more sense than the priests who said we were only martyrs-in-training.” Ruth gave a small huff at this, but otherwise made no comment.
“So, you knew your parents?” Twilight asked.
“They worked to maintain the shrines on my homeworld.” Judith said. “That was fine, but I felt the Emperor calling me to new pastures, so when the Order passed through our Hab Block, I walked up to the leading Sister and asked if she would make me a Canoness. She laughed at me, but said if I worked at it I could become a Canoness one day. Next thing I know I’ve joined the Order, and with Sister Naomi’s tutelage I like to think that I’m well on my way to becoming a Canoness.”
“The day you become a Canoness is the day every single heretic and traitor drops dead.” Ruth muttered.
“Oh, that would be nice. Maybe helping the Empress might be just what I need.” Ruth still seemed on edge, but Judith’s “cheer” was unwavering. Twilight was unsure of what to make of the Sister, but she seemed harmless enough that interacting with her would not lead to too much trouble.
... But when has that been true in your life, Twilight?
The section that they moved into now was more spartan than the halls around Twilight’s quarters; there were still depictions of old battles and heroes, but they were much smaller and simpler in design, and much fewer in number. The hall was lit solely by small flickering lights, the choral music the Imperium seemed to favor was certainly louder as they went on. The two Sisters seemed calmer, but like Mattias and his company they seemed adept at hiding their emotions from Twilight as they continued. At least I got to see a little emotion earlier.
The Sisters led Twilight to a smaller room just off of a second hall. Ruth was the first to enter, Judith taking time to remove her helmet to reveal a young, round-faced woman with twin Fleur-de-lis tattoos over her eyebrows. “We’ve returned, and brought the Empress’ Student with us.”
“Oh?” there was a pause as a third Sister stepped from the dark. This one was leaner than her fellows, her hair tied back in a neat bun, and she greeted Twilight with a warm smile and a bow. “Welcome, my lady. It is an honor to have a chance to speak with you in person.”
“Thanks,” Twilight returned the smile. “What’s your name?”
“Rebecca, my lady.” Rebecca rose back to her full height before continuing. “I assume you are here for Morning Prayer. Have you eaten? My sister and I have prepared a small meal, but there should be enough for you as well.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t want to intrude-”
“Please, I insist.” Rebecca reached forth to take Twilight’s hand, leading her further into the room. “I do not wish you to go without, my lady, though as the Empress’ Student I am sure you are attended to in the highest regard.” I would like a real apple sometime, but I’ve come to avoid keeping my hopes up for now.
“I’ve... managed.” Twilight said. “But you don’t have to call me ‘lady’ all the time. Tara will be just fine.” a short snicker came from behind Twilight, followed by the sound of Ruth’s armor-clad hand smacking Judith’s skull.
“Well then, ‘Tara’, I hope you enjoy the modest arrangements we Sisters have prepared.” Rebecca led Twilight to a small circle of five mats set next to a shrine lit with five candles. Judith and Ruth took the spots at the far left and right respectively, while Rebecca bade Twilight to sit in the center before taking a seat between her and Ruth.
“Sister Naomi is speaking to the Ecclesiarch currently, so you may have her seat until she returns,” Rebecca said.
“Oh, thank you.” Twilight took a moment to make herself comfortable before speaking again. “Is this... normal for you?”
“No.” Ruth shook her head. “Our morning rituals are usually conducted in a large mess hall with hundreds of other Sisters. It’s a rare moment when we get a chance to sit and pray together, and even then Naomi usually makes it a point to settle logistics after we have given our Praise to the Emperor.”
“Empress.” Judith corrected.
“Right.” Ruth furrowed her brow. “That is not going to get easier anytime soon.”
“Don’t worry, dear,” Rebecca placed a hand on Ruth’s shoulder. “You are a Sister of the Order of Our Martyred Lady, and one of the most devout young women I have met. I doubt you will stumble over a simple change in titles.”
“I know.” there was a pause just as a fourth Sister stepped into the room.
“Oh, we have a guest?” Twilight turned and saw another Sister carrying a small platter of food, one who looked almost exactly like Rebecca save for shorter hair, a stockier build, and a Fleur-de-lis on her left cheek. “Hello, my lady. My name is Veronica, and I suppose you have already met my Sisters.”
“Yes.” Twilight nodded. “Although... are you and Rebecca related?”
“Twins.” Rebecca said. “The first born in our home in nearly a millenia. We were always considered blessed by the Emperor, so when the Order arrived searching for recruits were were among the first sought out. They decided separating us would be detrimental, so we were placed in the same training regiment and eventually the same squad.”
“As we have saved the lives of many of our Sisters, and each other, I would say that the Empress does smile upon us.” Veronica took her spot next to Twilight’s left and set the platter down. “Now, would you like to say a short blessing?”
Twilight froze. The religion of the Imperium was certainly fascinating, but aboard Mattias’ ship their rituals were conducted in private and Twilight had never had the chance to study them too closely. Furthermore, the Sisters were a different aspect of the Imperium than Mattias and his followers; what if something they found detestable was something the latter considered the norm.
“Uh...”
“Is something wrong, Tara?” Rebecca asked.
“I... I...” Twilight’s face flushed red as her nervousness welled up. “Sorry, I don’t know what to say, I’ve never done this before.” Silence reigned in the room, the Sisters looking to one another in surprise and confusion.
“Never?” Judith asked.
“No. I-I mean, nothing like this; I just got so wrapped up in my studies that I got... distracted.” It was a lame excuse, but it was the truth.
“But...” Ruth started. “You are the student of the Empress. How can you not know blessings?” Twilight had no time to respond before Veronica pulled her into a tight embrace.
“Oh, you poor thing!” she cried, holding Twilight like a mother would hold a crying child. “To be so close to the Empress’ light, and yet so far at the same time; that sounds like the worst form of confusion that can be inflicted on any of Mankind!”
“I-I guess...” Twilight stammered as Veronica pulled away.
“This will not stand; a student of Her Holiness should not be so blind.” she looked now to the other Sororitas. “Sisters, it must be our solemn duty to instruct Tara here in our ways and prayers. She must not be one to venture into the torrents of the galaxy without the Light of the Empress to guide her.”
“Yes.” Rebecca nodded. “I have some of my old hymnals from my training; she can borrow those if she would like.”
“You really don’t have to do all this for me-” Twilight started again, only to be silence by a finger to her lips.
“We Sisters of the Order of Our Martyred Lady are trusted to protect and guide the faithful of humanity against the terrors of the Galaxy,” Veronica said. “It matters not if you are an Underhiver, or the greatest of lords; we all have a duty to the people of the Imperium, and in this form that duty is to make sure you are ready to stand against all that would see Mankind undone.” Twilight hesitated for a moment. She chewed her lip, unsure of what to say as the Sisters looked on. At Celestia’s side she would be kept busy, and certainly her mentor would do her utmost to protect her.
But then, she had always loved the chance to learn, and there might be times when Celestia could not always watch over her.
“I... Thank you.” Twilight said finally. “I would love to learn more about you and your lives.” this received another squeeze from Veronica.
“That’s wonderful, Tara!” she said. “We’ll talk to Sister Naomi when she returns, but I’m sure she would be happy to teach you.”
“Teach who what?” the voice of Naomi cut through the Sisters’ conversation. All eyes turned to the Sister Superior as she stepped into the room. She was still wearing her helmet, but she did look less intimidating without her weapons. “Oh, I did not realize the Empress’ Student was present.”
“We were just planning on teaching Tara a little more about our Order,” Rebecca said. “By your permission, of course, Sister Naomi.”
“Not by mine,” Naomi said, stepping further into the room as the Sisters and Twilight rose to their feet. “I just spoke with the Ecclesiarch; he has reasoned that the Empress’ Student should be placed under our protection, as there may be times when the Empress’ great works will not require the Student’s presence.”
“Oh,” Twilight blinked. “I was actually just thinking that over. Thank you-”
“Please, there is no need for thanks,” Naomi raised her hand. “We merely do the duty charged to us. Now, I would like a moment’s rest, please; we may discuss arrangements once I am ready.” Twilight could do nothing but give a small nod as Naomi slipped past her into the adjoining room. There was a pause before she turned back to the other Sisters.
“She seemed nice.” she said, mentally slapping herself for letting her sarcasm slip through. “Does she always wear her helmet around?”
“It... It is different with Naomi,” Ruth said. “She always wears her helmet when surrounded by those not of our squad. It would be best if we do not discuss it without her.”
“Oh... I can respect that.” Twilight took a moment to straighten herself out before Rebecca spoke.
“She will come around though.” the Sister said before smiling. “Now let us eat; I’ve always found it difficult to focus on an empty stomach.”
...
Mattias had been surprised to find out there was a tavern within the Imperial Palace.
It was obviously not in the original design; perhaps an old storage room some bored High Lord had reserved for a private stash, or pilgrims making use of some misplaced surplus. Whatever the case, the tavern was run down, held together with corrugated metal and old planks, and smelled vaguely of promethium.
And yet that was where Mattias found himself, answering the question of what happened when a Hospitaller, a psyker, and two Valhallans walked into a bar.
Alexis was in the center, flanked by Nikolai and Bianca. The trooper’s head rested on the bar, a collection of alcoholic beverages surrounding him. Angelique was not far from Bianca, idly spinning her chair about as she hummed some old drinking song. I go away to pray for ten minutes, and this is what happens? Mattias took a moment to compose himself before approaching his team.
“Lord Mattias,” Bianca said, straightening up as Mattias entered. “I apologize, but I needed to make sure all of my charges were accounted for.”
“Izzat th’ Inquis’tor?” Alexis slurred, weakly trying to raise his head. “Good. I’mma die now... he’ll help...”
“How long has he been here?” Mattias asked, taking a seat next to Nikolai.
“Two hours.” Nikolai replied. “Sister Bianca arrived for the latter half of that time. Fortunately, I’ve managed to keep him to weaker drinks.”
“How’d Pius die... chopped up ‘r somethin’ by Horus?” Alexis hiccupped. “That... tha’s no fun... Tha’s how’ll be...”
“And... why has Alexis decided to get drunk in the Imperial Palace?”
“She... she was there,” Alexis pulled his head up, his hands hovering in front of him. “Had a cute smile, nice round face, great rack... y’know how long i’s been since I’ve had a girl...?”
“The desert remains dry, and sees no rain even for ten seasons.” Angelique sang before spinning again. Alexis slumped forward.
“Now th’ Empress’ gonna kill me ‘cuz I hit on her student...” the Valhallan moaned. “Jus’ shoot me, lord; is better tha’ way.” Mattias sighed. The last thing he needed was for a drunken henchman to make a further mess of himself.
“I’m certain the Empress needs you alive more than she needs you dead.” Mattias said. “And it matters not, we have work to do.”
“All work. Always work.” Angelique murmured.
“The Inquisition wants us to hold here and continue our service to the Empress.”
“Which means watch her to make sure she is who she is.” Nikolai finished.
“Exactly.” Mattias gave a small sigh before continuing. “I am certain that she is the Emperor reborn, but there are those who remain uncertain... certainly those that are capable of swaying plenty of people.”
“Maybe one o’ those Eldar will come n’ kill me...”
“Who?” Bianca asked, looking over Alexis’ slumped form.
“The Phalanx just left the Armageddon System, and the main Minotaur Battlefleet enter the Segmentum Solar two weeks ago.” Mattias looked ahead. “If she is truly the Emperor, she will be able to convince the Adeptus Astartes with no trouble.”
“And if she doesn’t?”
“Hopefully the Custodes and Terra’s garrison can placate the Astartes long enough for the Empress to win them over.” Mattias sighed again. “Have faith, though; you all saw what She showed us, and perhaps the Space Marines can be convinced.”
“Maybe she’ll do th’ Pius thing again... I’m volunteered.”
“The Raven will speak for the Light.” Angelique said. Mattias watched as the psyker rose to her feet, staring off into the distance. “I can feel the raven; he waits within the sun’s embrace, yet he cannot see her light. It will be the mare that leads him in from the rain.”
“Angelique,” Bianca placed a hand on the girl’s shoulder. “Your prophecies are not needed right now.”
“Wait.” Mattias waved Bianca off before approaching Angelique. “I’ve noticed that you refer to the Empress as ‘the Light’. Is that correct?”
“He asked, yet he is all knowing.” Angelique rolled her head around. “The eye sees all; why ask a small spark for the answer?”
“Because I want to know; who is the Raven?” there was a long pause, Angelique blinking at Mattias for a few moments.
“Ask the Light, and she will answer. The mare will follow to the raven, and he will follow her into the light.”
Felt a bit short, but still pretty good. Keep them chapters coming.
A raven... if it's who I think it is wouldn't a falcon be more accurate?
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-
NEW CHAPTER!!!
Sister Tara... So psyker rules + Soroitas rules + Emperors Blessing... Twilight really needs to (accidentially) do something majorly badass because as a 40k piece she's probably worth more points than tank, give her space marine armor have her solo a baneblade :p
Hrm.... Raven... that's an unfortunate symbol in 40k. Tzeentch is often expressed via ravens, birds, and the ilk.
Magnus? Possibly... he's a daemon lord of course, but he's always run his own way and he was driven to chaos by something... he actually attempted to warn the Emperor of Horus's betrayal initially. Looking forward to seeing this update again.
raven...
raven...
raven...
...
Only one who i can think of would be Kayvaan Shrike... But I don't see how he would affect the story
7368126 Please, compared to some of the crap hero types in this 'verse get up to, killing a tank is weaksauce.
Now, if she manages to solo an entire regiment of tanks, that would be impressive.
I am also puzzling now over who the Raven might be. Very curious, this.
7368189
Haha true, but she's not something like a Space marine or demon lord, she just has a crap ton of buffs. Kinda like Ciaphus Caine, although his buff seems to be all luck and charisma. Oh and a pet blank.
7368207 Yes, but as the Personal Student of the Empress, it is expected that "Lady Tara" knows how to hit beyond her weight class, as it were.
The Minotaurs, the lap dogs of the high lords and experts at Fratricide, and the stubborn and dutiful Imperial Fists. Quite the pairing.
I wonder which one will rat out Guilliman for the current state of affairs. Probably Asterion. No love lost there! (I'm just assuming that Celestia will want an explanation as to why the Astartes are not running things, since she seemed pissed about it in the previous chapter.)
Though why is the Phalanx at Armageddon? I thought the first foundings that attended the third war was the Blood Angels, Ultramarines, and Salamanders? With the Black Templar being the main
Second Founding chapter.
Enough speculation though, I just love this story! It doesn't break the suspension of disbelief over Space Marines and ponys getting along, and you've kept pretty true to the setting.
Keep up the great work!
7368211 I have no question on the power of Tara's "punches" it's her blocking abilities that are the current issue. Unlike most "heroes" of the verse a las pistol would be highly effective against her, at least until she learns the dangers of ranged combat and gets her shields and armor in order. Then we could see true 40k style ownage.
7368254 Agreed. She already knows how to use her magic like a baws, and she's getting used to swordplay in addition to the idea of body armor, so now all she needs is ranged combat, and maybe a little experience in how to work with a squad-sized unit.
Then, she will be one of the most dangerous soldiers who ever took the field in Her Name.
Sombra maybe? Or perhaps Nightmare Moon...
Raven fits them but more so Moony than Sombrero.
7368208
Well partially.... It has been hinted through out the lore about Blood Raven origin and their Primarch. He already made appearance in this fic. Plus look at Blood Raven composition. Shitload of psyker and c(raven)ing tendecy for any relic and artifact.
I can't wait to see a Primarch (any one will do) realizing he has to call the Emperor "Mother" or "Mom" for short.
Also, Twilight's position as the Empress' student just shielded her from being purged for not knowing the sacred hymns and never praising the
EmperorEmpress' name... and she doesn't even realize that!7368315 ... DAMN WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF THAT!
keep the elements of harmony under lots of locks and keys tho
7368347 "It has been too long, Fa-...Mother. Much, much too long. Have you lost weight? You look...trim."
I really hope Tzeentch isn't hiding in one of them or something.
I want to see more of people's reaction when Celestia ascended to the throne.
Maybe from the pilgrims and custodes pov.
Yus, I iz pleazed. Very much.
Seriously, I squealed like a little fangirl over the Sisters interaction with Twi/Tara.
7368286 She could be referriing to the Blood Ravens. Perhaps Gabriel Angelos or one of his retinue?
... sounds like the start of a bad joke.
Not a single person has possibly given forth the idea that it could be as straight forward Corax? I mean Raven Guard? Hello?
Or it could not be. Who knows!?
So Twi meets up with the Sisters of Battle, and Angelique go all Madam Web cryptic... All in all, an amazing chapter as always!
7368244
Ponies?
7368815 But Corax is too busy being space-emo somewhere. Maybe wherever Vulkan is talking a nap in his pod until the Salamanders do things before the Ultrasmurfs find his artifacts
7369025 I agree with ya. All evidence points to any equestrians crossing into the 40K universe would just turn into humans.
7368815 I know, but I'm not going to tell you until next chapter
Loved the fact he knows he made a pass that the Empress's student and how screwed he might be if She discovers it.
7368815 Theoretically, it could be the LIon or one of his boys. Ravenwing, and all that.
7369190
Damn! I was hoping for an inside track!
That sounds like a fun day. It's not all the time I get to bash a heretic's skull in with a servo-skull. Usually I just shoot them or behead them with my power sword.
I WILL USE EVERY LAST BIT OF MY POLITICAL INFLUENCE AS A COMMISSAR-COLONEL TO MAKE THAT HAPPEN.
Seriously there are no words to describe how happy I'd be if all Heretics and Traitors died. Then I could pray even more to the Emperor!
Bro there's ALWAYS a tavern around somewhere. I mean we Commissars and Inquisitors have to drown out the memories of the horrific shit we've seen SOMEHOW. Reaches for bottle of Vostroyan Vodka C'mere pretty...
Doesn't it always?
THIS GUY, THIS GUY IS FRIGGIN HILARIOUS.
Simultaneously I want to buy Alexis a drink. But I also feel so bad for Mattias. They're both cool guys in my book.
I fucking love this guy.
CALLING IT RIGHT NOW, IT'S EITHER TZEENCH BEING A PRICK TRYING TO GET HIS "JUST AS PLAAANED" SHITS 'N GIGGLES (as he does) OR IT'S CORVUS CORAX BEING SPACE EMO ALL OVER THE GODDAMNED PLACE
Personally I want rules for Mattias and co. I like the chemistry between them. I mean we got an Inquisitor, two Inquisitorial Stormtroopers, a Sister of Battle, and a psyker that's gone full-on prophetic. That's All Guardsmen Party levels of awesome. Much better than just a SoB squad. Even if they are some pretty funny SoB.
If you haven't read the All Guardsmen Party it's a game of Dark Heresy 1.0 that a guy told on 4chan's /tg/ board. It's about a party of Guardsmen that go through some hilarious and awesome adventure filled with hilarity and purging. And the best part is it's still ongoing.
Please read it here ; http://www.theallguardsmenparty.com
7368670 Blood Ravens? BLOOD RAVENS? Turns to guardsman LOCK THE RELIQUARY
Just something silly that went through my head while reading this. Looking forward to the next reveal.
===
Celestia entered her throne room, her Captain General at her side.
"I never thought I would miss this place but it's kind of nice to get back to where you spent so much time... in..."
Celestia's train of thought had been interrupted by the sight of a gold automaton made in her old likeness. It was installed into a sitting position on the Golden Throne where she had once sat for almost ten thousand years as an undead corpse.
She gave the Custodes an inquisitive look with an accusing eyebrow. "What is that?"
He would have fidgeted if he knew what fidgeting was. Yet, the Captain General still managed to convey an uncomfortable disposition. "It was... kind of... sort of... meant to be your stand in. To maybe try and get things back in order. You know, before you actually did show up."
A techpriest popped up from behind the throne. "Ah, Custodes. I did not expect you back so soon. I'm still working on removing the omnissiah avatar from the throne." There was a mysterious beeping sound before the gold Emperor thing opened it's eyes with a little mechanical whirring and it's weird puppet mouth animated.
-I AM THE MOTHER FUCKING EMPEROR AND I HAVE SO MANY THINGS TO COMPLAIN ABOUT. ALSO, BRING ME SOME TACOS YOU TALKING BANANAS-
Celestia's other eyebrow rose up to meet it's fellow and she gave her Custodes another look. He shrugged his shoulders at her with a nervous laugh echoing form his vox grill.
The gold Emperor swiveled it's optics at her. -WHO THE SCREAMING FUCK ARE YOU?-
Celestia had had just about enough of this. "I am the Emperor. The real Emperor. Or, Empress as it would now be."
-THAT IS GROX SHIT. YOU CANNOT BE THE EMPEROR BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT ON THE GOLDEN THRONE. AND GIRLS CANNOT BE SPACE MARINES BECAUSE THEY ARE ICKY-
She glared at the Custodes this time. "Alright, I'm not terribly upset at the idea, but who the blazing warp programmed this thing to talk that way?"
"Um, no one really programmed it that way my Empress. Its cogitator was given an algorithm and programmed in your personality traits and a whole bunch of other techno babble I really don't get. Though I'm sure the tech priest could explain if you wanted him to. But essentially, it talks that way because that's how the program predicted you would talk. I think?"
The tech priest made a disapproving sound. "A crude explanation, but yes. Though, this particular machine spirit does seem to be quite temperamental."
Before she could respond, a sudden glittery brightness appeared from nowhere and three figures descended gracefully from above to land in front of her. Celestia stepped back in shock at the sight of the three burly and barely clothed figures who were absent any armor apart from their high crested helmets.
"Oooooh, my glorious Emperor! You have returned to us!" Said the first.
"You mean Empress dear brother." Said the second with a haughty chuckle.
She blinked at them. "My companions?" She stared at the newly Arrived Custodes, laid bare in all their muscular glory and striking rather inappropriate poses before her. She tried not to remind herself that she wasn't nearly as uncomfortable as she ought to be.
The third gently handled a lock of her hair. "Oh, I just love what you've done with your hair my Lord! And the new body as well. This really opens up your wardrobe!"
"Um, Empress?" A rather meek and familiar voice echoed from behind her. Celestia turned to see a furiously blushing Twilight.
"Tw- Tara? What's wrong?"
"All these half naked males suddenly showed up. The Sisters that were with me have all passed out and I am a sparkler of mixed and confusing emotions." She said while nervously clutching at her robes. "What should I do?"
Celestia let out a sigh and took in her surroundings. Her gaze fell upon the gold Emperor.
-NO PLACE LIKE HOME, HUH BOOB EMPEROR?-
She furrowed her brow at it. "Oh shut up you pyrite wind-up toy."
The only thing I've got to say is that I can't wait for the next chapter!!!!!!
7371101 Mattias and co. will get stats, but like the Sisters they need to do just a little more in story so they can stand out from a generic Ordo Xenos Inquisitor with some henchmen and a generic Battle Sisters Squad respectively
7371879 Yay! Now I need to get an Inquisitor and Hospitaller mini. They are a bit lacking in my current army.
7371294 Can this be a cannon side-story? WAIT WHERE'S ROGAL AND MAGNUS?
Really enjoying this so far. Tia being a badass is always fun to see. though im looking foward to whats to come, im also reallly nervouse cause most of the people i like in Warhammer 40k (Magnus, Mortarion, the tau, fabulous hair Fulgrim, etc.) are probably gonna get fucked over pretty bad.
Still excited to see where this goes though. (even gave me inspiration for a stupid story idea staring the primarchs that i probably wont write but hope i can someday) keep up the good work.
7371294 Hilarious. Well done.
7371879 Just so you know in preparation for Mattias 'n Co. getting rules I'm putting together;
1 x Ordo Xenos Inquisitor
1 x Sister of Battle Hospitaller
2 x Inquisitorial Stormtroopers that I put Vostroyan heads on
1 x Wyrdvane Psyker with a SoB head
Hype is real, cannot wait for rules.
7378105 Very nice
7378134 Thanks!
I am enjoying this 'new main 6'. The sisters will prove to be entertaining I am sure. Can't wait to see if they end up mirroring the originals from Equestria. And who is who.
Also;
That whole scene was glorious. I feel for the man, hitting on your goddesses prized pupil... He feels the fear.
7380304 That should be interesting to see.
Also, yeah, hitting on the Empress's Personal Student is no doubt a daunting prospect.
I keep thinking the Raven is Markos, or some other mundane. Twilight is "the mare" and her influence is limited to human contact.
Pleasant reminder: this twilight comes from the middle end of season 4, so she already has befriended discord.
If i got that wrong, i haven't genuinely watched the show myself since season 1.
7385822 A little off in time; this Twilight is from the tail end of Season 3, and so if Discord was released for an attempt at redemption (and that's a big "if" considering what he's done in this continuity) Twilight still wouldn't exactly trust him.
7389034
What has Discord done in this continuity?
I have forgotten.