1.22- Interview with an Empress
Interview with an Empress
Twilight rolled out of bed with a groan. Another night of restless sleep, the dreams coming and going once more. Meditation helped, to a point, but time and again the dreams would return, plaguing her as she did her best to keep focused. She would ask Celestia, but besides their training sessions the Empress was busy with the mopping up actions on Caesaria and would not be there to answer all her questions.
Twilight would have to look elsewhere for guidance, then.
She got up and dressed, splashing a little water on her face from a nearby bottle that Sister Rebecca had provided. It did little to wake her, but at least she felt cleaner than she had in days. Instinctively she reached for her sword and armor, but then the memory of the battle returned.
Her sword was broken, and her armor mattered little.
Twilight started out, wandering off down the hall in search of someone to talk to. Mattias and his followers were back aboard the Sanguinium Martyres coordinating some aspect of the cleanup operations she could not remember. Corax and Celestia were with the main force... that left Naomi and the Sisters. Good women though they were, trying to speak casually to them took quite a bit of effort, effort that Twilight was uncertain she wanted to exert at this time.
But then, perhaps exerting a little effort was what she needed now, more than ever...
Twilight had guessed that they would be found within one of the battleship’s training rooms. The nearest one was one floor directly beneath her room; reaching it would be of no real difficulty. The halls of the battleship were just as they always had been, but now Twilight found herself just as nervous as she had been on the Sanguinium Martyres... how long ago? It seemed like years had passed since she had first stepped onto that ship, years since she had been tossed into a nightmarish quagmire .
Then again, maybe it had only been a few more months. What did time matter in the Imperium.
Twilight pushed that thought aside as she reached the training room, stepping inside and pausing to take in what was before her. The Sisters were there, with Ruth, Rebecca, and Judith kneeling before Naomi while Veronica stood off to one side, cleaning the squad’s weapons. None of them appeared to have noticed Twilight entering, still focused on the tasks before them.
“... And may you impart strength upon us as we prepare for our next mission. Let us not be servants of weakness, but march forth in strength and clarity of mind.” Naomi bowed her head. “There is only the Empress.”
“And She is our Shield and Protector.” the three finished, rising after a brief pause.
“Now, start your laps. We’ll continue with sparring once you are finished.” the three Sisters nodded before breaking out in a jog around the training room, save for the section that Veronica was tending to. Twilight soon saw why, as Veronica finished off with one bolter before aiming it at a target on the opposite side of the room, firing three single shots before setting the weapon down.
“The barrel has warped slightly, Sister Naomi,” she called. “I will need to speak to an Enginseer to request replacements.”
“Check the others before you make more requisitions, Veronica.” Naomi called back. “We’ll resume target practice once you have fully healed.” Veronica nodded, turning her attention to the next bolter in the line. Now, Twilight chose to make her presence known.
“Sister Naomi?” the Sister turned, blinking in surprise once she spotted Twilight.
“Lady Tara, forgive me for not noticing your entrance,” Naomi said, giving a small bow of respect. “I had through you would be resting more.”
“No, I... I needed to get out and move around again.” Twilight shook her head. “And you don’t have to address me as ‘Lady Tara’. I’m just Tara, nothing more.
“If you say so, L... Tara.” Naomi’s cheeks flushed, an odd sight on the normally stern Sister Superior. “What brings you here? Your dreams?”
“How did you...?” Twilight stopped herself. “... yes. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep since that day. Everything just keeps going back to that day, seeing Markos die... and Sister Veronica injured...”
“They will pass in time,” Naomi said. “With prayer and the guidance of others, you will recover in no time... pardon me a moment.” Naomi looked past Twilight before shouting. “Faster, Rebecca! A sleeping grox can move quicker than you! Keep up with Ruth or by the Throne I will have you sprint the length of this battleship with Judith tied to your back, and she’ll be the only one in armor!” Twilight blinked several times before Naomi returned her focus. “Apologies, training has only just begun. I want to make sure that my Sisters are in perfect shape, and that we never allow what happened to you reoccur.”
“Oh... thank you.” Twilight watched as the three passed by again. Ruth kept a fast pace, barely showing any sign of fatigue as she made her laps. Rebecca did her best to keep up, but appeared to be having a rougher time with it as her breath came out almost raggedly, and Judith... Even under strain, there seemed little that could make that girl unhappy.
“Is this... typical of normal training days?” Twilight asked.
“For a warm-up, this is a little lighter than what they are used to.” Naomi replied. “We are not Astartes, who can endure stress that would kill a normal man, but I always try to push my girls a little harder than other Sister Superiors, to ensure that they are at their best.”
“And what would that be?”
“Much the same as you see now, except they’re loaded down with about a quarter ton’s worth of equipment.” Twilight’s eyes widened as Naomi continued. “That is the upper limit of a Sister in armor without additional stimulants. A Space Marine would laugh at such weights.”
“I... see...” Twilight paused as a thought came into mind. “... Can you teach me?” At this, Naomi raised an eyebrow.
“You... you want to train with us?”
“Yes.” Twilight nodded. “Mattias’ training is... fine, but I feel I need more. Not just physical training, but focus, emotional... even spiritual training, if I’m honest with myself. You and your Sisters are far more versed in things like that, and I want to know more so I... so I don’t feel as vulnerable as I did then.” there was a lengthy pause, Naomi looking Twilight over several times as if searching for doubt.
“It will not be easy...” she started. “I will make no concessions for your because you are the Empress’ student.”
“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Twilight replied, firming up her stance.
“If you wish to be trained by us, you will have to observe all of our training and customs.” Naomi’s eyes narrowed. “That includes prayer, meditation, and possibly penance depending on your actions. You are still young in your faith, almost irreligious actually; are you willing to accept that?” Twilight hesitated for a brief moment, but finally came to a conclusion.
“I know what I need to do,” she said. “I know what I have seen, and will do what I can to keep moving.” another pause.
“Very well.” Naomi firmed up her stance before speaking again. “Consider this your honorary induction as an Acolyte of the Order of Our Martyred Lady. You may begin by joining the others in their jog.”
“How long is that going-” Twilight did not finish before Naomi’s armored hand smacked against her cheek.
“Did I ask you to question me, Acolyte?!” she shouted. “Start running now. You will stop either when I say so or you go to join the Empress Herself, and if you test my patience further I’ll guarantee that latter shall be your fate. Now go!” Twilight said nothing more, darting over to fall in line behind Ruth, Judith, and Rebecca. Fortunately, she could remember her perusal through Jogging for the Inactive back during the Running of the Leaves, so keeping a good pace would not be too difficult... she hoped.
Whatever it took to get her mind back on track... No matter what pain it took to get there.
...
Naomi’s training allowed her to hide her emotions well, but it would be foolish to say she was not impressed by Tara’s improvement.
Yes, she was much slower and weedier than even her previous squadrons of Sisters, but she could keep a steady pace and listened well to orders. She had good sense not to strain herself, even under Naomi’s commands, and always seemed able to bounce back from whatever physical suffering she had endured.
But by the Throne, she was a terrible fighter!
“Tell me what you did wrong,” Naomi asked, peering down at Tara as the younger woman struggled beneath Judith’s boot.
“Well, I was thinking that-” Tara started.
“Exactly! Thoughts are dangerous and distracting in a combat situation. You hesitated, and Judith was able to pin you. Had she been a Chaos cultist you would be dead or worse before another Sister could come to your aid. Now get up and do it again!” Tara nodded, pushing herself back to her feet once Judith stepped away. Naomi backed up, watching as Tara once more tried and failed to break Judith’s stance. The Sister merely got her arms under Tara, yanked the girl off her feet, and then slammed her into the deck before pinning her once more.
“And now you have gone for over-committing yourself. Do it again!” Tara got up, taking a moment to catch her breath before taking another stance. She did not attack, though, as she and the others straightened to attention as someone stepped into the room.
“Battle Sister Naomi,” Naomi turned, doing her best to maintain composure as she came face to face with one of the Empress’ Custodes. “The Empress has requested a private audience with you. You are to come and speak with her immediately.”
The Empress wished to speak with her? Why? Had She heard about Naomi’s training and taken issue with it? “... At Her command, my lord.” Naomi said finally, turning back towards the others. “Continue with your training until I return.”
“Yes, Sister.” the others chorused, even Tara joining in. With that settled, Naomi approached the Custodes, the golden-clad warrior turning and exiting the training room without another word. The narrow halls of the living quarters would give way to the sweeping caverns of the rest of the battleship, but Naomi’s training was that she would keep her eyes forward, focused on the destination and the Custodes that led her there.
The rational side of Naomi, the one that had been long buried from decades of fighting and leading, produced only panic at what her goddess would want her for.
The Custodes led her across the main hall and up several more levels, Naomi sticking close so she did not lose sight in the general gloom of the battleship. Trekking across the vessel could take hours, days even, if one was not prepared, but the Empress’ guardian knew his path well. Soon, Naomi found herself standing before a slightly more ornate door, two other Custodes standing guard outside.
“The Empress is waiting for you,” the Custodes that had led her there said. Naomi nodded her thanks and approached, the door swinging open for her as she stepped inside.
“Ah, Sister Naomi, correct?” The Empress was seated at a finely crafted table, two steaming cups of tea set before her. She had shed her armor for a white dress uniform, her multicolored hair held back by a small tiara. “Please, sit.”
“... As you command, Empress.”
“Oh, there’s no need to be so formal.” the Empress chuckled. “Please, sit and relax. Would you care for some tea?”
“Y... yes, please.” Naomi approached cautiously, gingerly sitting down in the chair offered as the Empress pushed her one of the cups.
“I have taken to trying a more... casual approach when speaking with my subjects,” the Empress said, taking a sip from her own cup. “It is not for everyone, but some seem more receptive to the notion than others... Tara for instance.” Naomi hesitated, the tea sloshing slightly in her cup.
“Is that why you have called me here?” at this, the Empress laughed.
“Dear, there is no need to be so fearful.” she said. “Do not think of me as solely an Empress. For now, I am just a woman concerned for the well being of her student, of which you have sought to remedy.” Naomi mulled over that, taking a small sip from her offered tea. It had a slightly nutty taste, different from the teas Veronica and Rebecca tended to and certainly more flavorful than tanna. “How is she doing?”
“Well... to be perfectly honest, I am not certain if her chosen path is the best.” Naomi set aside her tea before continuing. “I have been training her as I would one of my girls, but it has been rather rough for her; Tara understands the basics and mechanics of the training quite well, actually far better than I understand them at times, but it is the meaning and the spirit of what we do that she fails to understand.”
“You think she is ignorant?”
“I think she is a naive young woman who is unable to fully grasp that more often than not the universe is twisted, cruel, and unforgiving.”
“Tara’s ‘naivete’ is not always a weakness, though,” the Empress took another drink. “There is a spark within her that allows her to reach out beyond mere understanding, helping to show others they are capable of far more than they realize.”
“That’s...” Naomi stopped herself. “I... I suppose I understand what you mean. She has connected well with the Sisters, Judith and Ruth seem to like her the most, and...” Naomi paused, now realizing that she had left her helmet back in the training room.
“The Bladed Lotus,” The Empress said. “I had several encounters with their kind during the Great Crusade. A despicable lot, all of them.”
“... yes, but that sentiment has only gotten me so far.” Naomi replied, reaching up and touching her scars. “Tara spoke to me on it when you were locked away in the Throne Room... That girl, to think that this xenos mark means nothing concerning my purity?”
“Does it?” Naomi hesitated again. Her training had taught her that the alien was the enemy, that all marked or produced by them were shunned if not destroyed.
And yet... Tara still thought her soul was beautiful.
“It is a matter I have tried to come to terms with,” Naomi sighed. “But I suppose Tara’s influence has been better for me. I feel that she is one that I can speak plainly to on those matters, even more so than my Sisters now or before.”
“I see.” there was a pause. “I could heal the brand, if you would like. It would take a little time, but my knowledge should be enough to overcome the worst of the injury.” Naomi still had enough composure not to choke on her tea. Heal the brand, after dozens of medicae and Hospitallers had failed? Of course the Empress could do this; the most ancient and powerful human to have lived, a simple medical procedure would be no more trifling than swatting an insect. A chance to finally be free of the shame of wearing a xenos brand, of constantly having to hide behind her helmet...
Shame that, perhaps, she had projected solely on herself.
“I...” she paused. “I thank you for considering my plight, Empress... truly, I do.” she looked up at the Empress before continuing. “But I cannot accept such an offer at this time. It does not feel... proper.”
“Does it now?” the Empress asked.
“No.” Naomi shook her head. “What happened to me all those years go is something that I have not fully made my peace with... something that your student has helped me tremendously already. To take it away, to hide it from my mind... that does not seem like it would truly bring healing to me.” there was another pause, the Empress regarding her quietly as they sat. Naomi could feel dread creeping over her as the realization that she had spurned a gift from the God Empress entered her-
“Very well,” the Empress said, taking a drink and smiling. “I thank you for being honest with yourself, as with me.”
“Oh... you are very welcome, Empress.” Naomi relaxed slightly, turning her teacup in her hands. “I apologize if I was too curt in my rejection.”
“You would hardly be the first to say no to me, Sister Naomi,” The Empress looked off into space, her face dropping slightly. “At times, I wonder what it would be like if more said no to my offerings... But that’s another matter.” the Empress looked back at Naomi and smiled again. “Now, tell me what you have in store for young Tara.”
...
Rebecca watched as the young psyker shuffled into the training room, her head down even as the Hospitaller spoke soothing words to her. Had fate been kinder to her she could have made for a strong young woman, perhaps even a Sororitas, but to have her mind shattered so roughly...
Imperial Doctrine taught that psykers were to be feared, despised. Rebecca could only pity this one.
“The mare need not be led to calm waters,” Angelique mumbled. “Little lights, though, need further guidance.”
“Is Angelique alright?” Tara asked, quickly crossing to the little psyker.
“I have done my best to soothe her,” Sister Bianca replied. “But she is particularly disturbed by... something. Unfortunately, I cannot get her to divulge what.”
“The void rises around the ankles of the lion, and the raven follows the path of Destruction.” Angelique shied away again, shrinking back as Tara reached out for her.
“It’s okay, Angelique,” Tara whispered. “Just let it all pass. Allow your magic to flow normally, and it will stabilize.”
“The little mare...” Angelique said. “The little mare is like a teacher, stern but just. All the other little mares will flock to her in the Twilight of a new day.”
“I know that Tara’s powers are direct from the Empress Herself,” Rebecca turned slightly to see Sister Ruth standing at her side. “But I still find myself on edge when she discusses them, especially around that witch.”
“We should be happy that she has been able to use her powers for good, Sister Ruth,” Rebecca replied, turning to face her Sister fully. “And you were there when she used those powers on Caesaria; it was unlike anything I have ever experienced before.”
“We have never battled or fought alongside psykers, though,” Ruth countered. “Who’s to say that that was merely normal for her kind?”
“Do you trust her?” there was a lengthy pause, Ruth working her jaw with unease.
“Well... yes, of course.” she said finally. “She’s the Empress’ student, after all; why would she not be trusted?”
“I still cannot tell if you have fully embraced that thought, Ruth.” Rebecca said. “You are a good woman, but perhaps... perhaps not all is to be approached with fear. Perhaps a little understanding is needed for such matters.” Ruth opened her mouth to say something, but the words appeared to die in her throat. Rebecca turned back to Tara and Angelique, the little psyker now sobbing into Tara’s shoulder. Rebecca did not get a chance to linger, though, for a golden-clad Custodes had stepped into the room behind the three.
“Battle Sister Rebecca,” the warrior said. “The Empress requests your presence at this time.”
“Th-the Empress?” Rebecca asked, shrinking back. “Have I done something wrong?”
“The Empress will explain everything.” Rebecca swallowed, but said nothing more as she stepped around Tara and the others and followed after the Custodes. Sister Naomi had not said a word about what the Empress had spoken to her about, though she had been rather shaken by the encounter. Was it a reprimand for allowing Tara to be attacked?
Rebecca’s journey led not to the Empress’ quarters, but down into the bowels of the battleship, where serfs and servitors labored to repair the machines and weapons of war the the Empress’ Crusade demanded. Gingerly she sidestepped disassembled machinery, trying her best to keep the Custodes in her sight.
She was led to a larger room, and there stood the Empress inspecting something near a large forge. At least, she presumed it was the Empress; she was dressed in plain workman’s pants and a light shirt, her bare arms and face glistening with sweat where they were not covered in soot. Her hair had been tied back into a single braid, all she needed to keep it out of the way of... whatever it was she was doing. The Empress turned and spotted Rebecca, smiling.
“Ah, Sister Rebecca,” she said. “Apologies for my appearance; I had a project come into my mind and could not let it rest until I had started work.”
“O-of course, Empress.” Rebecca stammered, still unsure of what to make of the scene before her. “I can return at a more opportune time, if you would like.”
“No, no; this is actually much better than I had originally planned.” the Empress wiped some of the soot off her brow. “Please, walk with me.” Rebecca hesitated again, but nodded before falling in step behind the Empress.
“May I ask where we are going?” Rebecca asked.
“I am looking for some ceramite,” the Empress said. “Either that or adamantium; I am hoping to blend them with some other materials to make a durable but lightweight armor for my soldiers, perhaps cut back on some of this... excess.” she gestured towards another forge, where several dozen serfs and Enginseers were busy repairing armor for the Raven Guard.
“I had it in my mind to streamline power armor even further,” the Empress said. “Something light and compact, like what you Sisters wear or even the Tau Empire’s armor. It would be a means to make the Astartes even faster and more powerful than they already are... Unfortunately, those plans have been lost to time.” she sighed before looking over to Rebecca. “But enough on that, my friend. How have your travels been?”
“Uh...” Rebecca paused as she mulled over the question. “They have been... good, I suppose.” she looked away from the Empress. “It has been rather difficult in these last few days, what with my sister injured and Tara in her state of distress. We have done much, but it can be quite difficult to fully understand what she has on her mind.”
“Really?” the Empress asked. “I had never thought Tara to be secretive like that.”
“It is not secretive, Empress.” Rebecca looked back. “It is that she is so unlike anyone or anything we have encountered during our journeys. She is innocent, curious, even a bit stubborn at times, and her ideas about the world are almost laughably naive at... a lot of times, really. I suppose our greatest problem is that we do not understand that, and are uncertain that she can truly understand us.”
“I see... Ah, here we are.” they had arrived at a large scrap pile, where excess metal and pieces too broken to justify repairing would be melted down and reshaped into new armor and weapons. “You can help me search if you would like.”
“Oh, of course,” Rebecca nodded, stepping towards the pile and pulling out a few broken pieces. “How much metal do you require, Empress?”
“Oh, perhaps a kilogram or two,” the Empress inspected the pieces Rebecca had pulled out. “These will not do, but it is a step in the right direction. Try to find anything with a slight weave in the metal.”
“Yes, Empress.” Rebecca tossed the pieces aside and began searching, the Empress moving to a different part of the scrap pile to search. She found small fragments of carapace armor, but moved on from them; Astartes and the more elite Guard units would never allow their best armor to end up here, and the scraps they did throw away would be sub-par by their exacting standards.
“Other than this lack of communication,” the Empress said from around the scrap pile. “Do you still feel connected to Tara?”
“Connected is perhaps... too strong of a word.” Rebecca replied, inspecting a broken cybernetic implant before continuing. “Since there is still quite a lot about her that we do not know, I do not think we can forge a true connection at this time... but I still try to reach out to her, when I can.”
“How so?”
“Oh, training, a bit of conversation, the odd chore here and there. I helped her with her research when we were en-route to Caesaria, and I tended to her when she was suffering from her... psychic blackout or whatever it was that Lord Mattias called.”
“I see.” The Empress pulled out a few bullet riddled sheets. “And Tara has been receptive to this approach.”
“I like to think so, yes.” Rebecca replied. “Such a sweet girl... While it would probably be best that she lose her sense of ignorance, I do feel that she needs some semblance of her original life if she is to progress further in her training.” The Empress merely nodded, tucking her collected materials under her arm before approaching Rebecca.
“I have no doubt you will help Tara in all ways,” she said. “Now, would you like to see what I am truly working on?”
...
Judith had answered her calling as she answered all others: quickly, and with glee.
She hummed an old hymn to herself as she followed the Empress’ bodyguard further into the ship. She would have asked questions, but the Custodes were legendary for their silent communication, and what question could she ask such great warriors?
Frivolous ones, perhaps, but then frivolity had its place in the world, even if it did not appear as such.
Her journey brought her up to the bridge. The Empress was there, dressed in her immaculate white uniform, towering over all except her Custodes and Lord Corax. It was always an odd sight to see the Empress outside of her armor... the Empress, odd. Ha! There was something that Sister Ruth would find shocking about the goddess of Mankind. Judith did not like to boast too much, but there were times when she enjoyed breaking down a bit more of Ruth’s overzealous nature.
“You requested my presence, Empress?” she asked, standing at attention as she reached the bottom of the stairs leading to the Empress’ position.
“Ah, Sister Judith, welcome.” the Empress said before turning to Corax. “Make sure that our reinforcements are adequately informed of the situation, and that they will be prepared to move to our next destination in two months.”
“Yes, Empress.” Corax turned and made to exit, giving Judith a look as he passed by. Judith said nothing, returning Corax’s stare for as long as she could before she had to avert her eyes.
“Something the matter with Corax?” the Empress asked.
“Of course not, my lady,” Judith replied, snapping her head back around. “He is wise, and Tara is quite fond of him. But he seems so aloof, sad at times... have you spoken to him on it?”
“Yes, but that is not a matter that is of concern right now.” the Empress bade Judith join her before continuing. “Our Crusade has grown immensely in the last few months.”
“Has it?” Judith asked. “I don’t bother myself with such matters; I’m just a humble soldier, not a grand leader.”
“Thirty million Guardsmen now serve under my direct command, and more shall arrive before we make haste to Ultramar.” the Empress crossed her arms. “The Raven Guard and the Imperial Fists have joined their forces here in full, and several more Chapters of Astartes have arrived as well. It is not the greatest force I have commanded by far, but in time it shall grow.”
“If you say so, my lady.” there was a pause before the Empress turned slightly towards Judith.
“I have watched you, Sister Judith-”
“Please, just Judith is fine,” Judith said. “Tara insists we call her ‘Tara’, and I do not wish for you to burden yourself further.”
“Very well, ‘Judith’,” the Empress gave a wry smile. “I must say that you are quite unlike the other Sisters of your squad.”
“My Superiors told me that too when I was training.” Judith frowned. “Usually when they were disciplining me for ‘insubordination’.”
“‘Insubordination’?”
“They felt that I was too free in my worship of you, if that makes any sense,” Judith shrugged before continuing. “I was taught that we all worship you in our own way, within bounds of reason of course, and my parents always saw you as a stern father... mother... you understand what I am saying.”
“I have had... issues with some of those who would claim worship of me.” at this, Judith’s eyes widened.
“But they only do what they think will please you.” she said. “Judge them first by their desire and meaning before you judge their methods... I think Saint Sebastian said that.”
“I believe it was another philosopher, but I suppose your sentiment does hold some weight.” The Empress looked at Judith. “You are quick to come to the aid of those that would challenge your own approach.”
“And why shouldn’t I? We all worship the same Empress, don’t we?” a pause. “Well, theirs is a more serious Empress, one who judges on the slightest of mistakes and punishes them harshly. I never could subscribe to that theory.”
“Just the stern mother?”
“Yes, stern mother with really pretty hair.” there was a pause before Judith giggled. “Sorry, Empress, but it’s something that I’ve thought of since you revealed yourself. It fits you much better than the old icons of you.” at this, the Empress gave a short laugh.
“You are quite unlike the other Sisters,” she said. “Perhaps unlike most people I have met in my long life. You possess far more joy than I would have thought possible for a woman of your age and experience.”
“All with your help, Empress.” Judith said, giving the Empress a smile. “I have tried to spread that to Tara, but she is quite stern and a bit silly as well.”
“You do not know the half of it; the poor girl worries about so much in trying to please me, there are times when she has made a fool of herself.” the Empress looked back. “But she means well, no doubt, and she is still learning in this regard.”
“Well, I’ll be sure to help her.” Judith firmed up her stance. “I swear on my life, Empress, that I will not rest until Tara is less stern in her dealings with you, so she can be the best student you have ever had.” there was a pause, the Empress regarding Judith for several moments before looking away, smiling again.
“I am sure you will do wonderfully,” she said. “And I am sure Tara will appreciate the effort in more ways than you can possibly imagine...”
...
Veronica was no medicae, but all Sororitas of the Order of Our Martyred Lady knew enough to dress minor injuries, in this case Tara’s bruised shoulder from where Ruth had slammed her into the deck, again.
“There, that should hold you until the next training session.” she said, ducking the excess bandages away. Tara moved her arm slightly, wincing briefly but not stopping as she checked for full range of motion.
“Thank you, Veronica,” she said.
“I must say, you are holding up much better than most recruits I have trained with,” Veronica said, setting her medical supplies aside for storage later. “Even Ruth would be in more physical pain than you display.”
“Believe me, getting smacked into a hard floor is just as bad as getting brained with a few flower pots.” Veronica raised an eyebrow at this as Tara continued. “There was a rather clumsy woman that lived in my town. A total sweetheart, but very prone to knocking things onto people’s heads.”
“Oh... I see.” there was a pause before Veronica spoke again. “Well, I suppose you should rest; there’s always more training to do tomorrow.”
“Of course there is,” Tara said before regarding Veronica. “How are you doing?” another pause.
“... My scars still ache, I suppose,” Veronica said, her hand resting on her stomach as she continued. “The medicae do their work well, though, and I am lucky that I have recovered so quickly.” she looked up to Tara and smiled. “In a few days, perhaps it will be me that faces you in the sparring ring, not Sister Ruth.”
“Just as long as you don’t strain yourself,’ Tara replied. “I’d hate for you to hurt yourself again.”
“For you, my lady, I would die a thousand times.” this did not seem to encourage Tara, but she did make a show of accepting the pledge in the spirit in which it was given. She gave a quick nod and stepped back out into the hallway, pulling a jacket over herself so she could appear more presentable. Veronica gave a small sigh and turned back to her medical supplies, wrapping the bandages back up to store away.
“Did you mean what you said, that you would die for Tara?” Veronica gave a small yelp as she spun around, choking on her words as she saw the Empress standing before her.
“Empress!” she squeaked. “I didn’t know... I-I mean, yes, of course I would die for her. All of us would, I am sure.”
“Your loyalty knows no bounds, my dear.” the Empress said as she glided into Veronica’s room, her uniform rippling ever so slightly.
“Oh... thank you,” Veronica replied. “Though, Ruth is the one with true loyalty; always the first to come to Tara’s aid when the need calls for it, quickest to justify and interpret your commands or Sister Naomi’s-”
“And yet it was you who almost gave her life for Tara, not her.”
“Well... yes, yes I did.” Veronica looked away. “I do not see myself as a martyr, my lady. I am merely a soldier of your Holy Name, trying to save one more innocent even if it means I must give up my life.”
“So then your sacrifice means nothing?”
“To me? No.” Veronica thought over her answer for a moment. “Well... perhaps that is too harsh. Knowing that I spared one of my Sisters, or Tara, that would partially justify my actions. But should they survive, they would be inspired to far greater feats than someone like me could dream of. That knowledge, I suppose, would make my potential death more meaningful.” there was a pause before Veronica chuckled. “Sorry, you must think I am idealistic or naive.”
“On the contrary, some of the bravest, most noble men and women I have known gave their lives so that others would be inspired to take up their cause.” The Empress looked away. “Some do not heed the call, but that is to be expected: all species, be they xenos or men, possess some cowards among them.”
“You are more learned in such matters than I am, Empress.” Veronica started. “Did you wish to speak to Tara? She has gone back to her room to rest, but I am sure she would love an audience with you.”
“In time,” the Empress said, turning to face Veronica fully. “Tara has quite a lot on her mind right now, and I am afraid that my presence might not be as comforting as you would believe.”
“Oh, I would not say that,” Veronica said. “You are the Empress of Mankind. Though Tara does not see you in the way that I or my Sisters do, she does think highly of you and all you do. You should hear her sing your praises when my Sisters and I speak to her after our training sessions. I believe she is scared, lost, but your light still serves as a beacon even to one such as her.” there was a pause before Veronica realized she had been admonishing the Empress. “Forgive me, my lady, but that was only what I observed.”
“No, there is no sin in speaking against my own foibles.” the Empress chuckled. “I’d best be off. There are still matters of the Crusade that must be dealt with.”
“Oh, of course,” Veronica bowed. “By your leave, Empress.” the Empress did not respond, merely stepping back out into the hall and vanishing like a spectre of legend. Veronica peeked around the corner, but could find no sign of the Empress’ presence.
Except, perhaps, that her scars no longer ached as they had before.
...
Ruth rocked on her feet, bringing her fists up into a guard position. Across from her, Tara sized her up, keeping a surprisingly open stance for one who had grown more accustomed to fighting. The other woman took a moment to wipe some sweat from her brow, flicking it away before resuming her original stance.
Great Empress of Mankind, grant me strength.
Ruth lunged forward, aiming a punch squarely at Tara’s head. The other girl sidestepped the strike, swatting Ruth’s fist away with a smooth backhanded block. Ruth pulled back so as to avoid overstretching herself, slipping underneath Tara’s counterattack with ease.
Grant my body power to strike down the foes of Your Kingdom.
Now Tara was on the attack, sweeping her leg out to try and trip Ruth. Ruth stepped back and punched, catching Tara in the shoulder with a glancing blow. Tara rolled with the punch, a marked improvement over her first day of training so long ago, before sweeping her arm up to seize Ruth before she could pull back.
Let not my enemy triumph, for they do not know Your light.
Ruth twisted her arm, breaking free of Tara’s grapple before jabbing an elbow into her chest. Tara coughed as the wind was driven from her lungs, but recovered quickly before Ruth could drop her to the ground. She blocked another strike, redirecting it upward before jabbing her free hand into Ruth’s side.
Let all perish before You, for Yours is Truth, Power, Hatred, and Light.
Ruth lunged forward, but Tara slipped under her attempted grapple and wrapped her arms around Ruth’s waist. The Sister had only a moment to react before Tara yanked upward, freeing her from the deck for the briefest of instances before both came crashing down on the deck. Ruth shifted her muscles to break free of the grapple, finally wrapping her arms around Tara’s neck to pin her.
There is only the Empress. She is our Shield and Protector.
“And that makes three for Ruth.” Naomi said, stepping forward as Ruth released Tara and helped the girl back to her feet. “I must say, you do well to match Ruth’s strikes, Tara.”
“Well, I just happened to notice she goes for a head strike before attempting a grapple,” Tara replied. “Once I got that down, I just needed to work on blocking it more efficiently.”
“Is that so?” Naomi asked, looking to Ruth. “Are you becoming predictable, Sister Ruth?” Ruth flushed, more from embarrassment than anger.
“I will do better, Sister Naomi,” she said.
“In due time. No need to burn yourself out.” Naomi looked to the other sparring pair of Judith and Rebecca. “Rest, Sisters. Ten minutes, and then we will switch partners again.”
“Yes Sister Naomi.” the Sisters chorused. Ruth took a few deep breaths and stretched out, watching a few drops of sweat drop to the floor. The girl’s getting better, she thought. I should have dropped her much faster.
“Ruth?” Ruth looked up at Tara, the girl having cocked her head to one side. “I didn’t upset you with the critique, did I? I have a friend who’s a bit more sensitive when told she’s predictable.”
“Nothing you say can dishearten me, Lady Tara.” Ruth said, wiping her brow before standing up. “I have served the Empress faithfully for twenty five years, and have been corrected countless times. What is one more critique, especially from one as illustrious as you?”
“I can barely hold my own in a fight, especially not against you.” Tara furrowed her brow. “I’d hardly call that illustrious.”
“Regardless.” there was a pause, Ruth regarding Tara for a moment before she spoke again. “Your... psychic powers...”
“It’s okay, you can call it magic.” Tara said. “‘Psychic Powers’ seems to have some kind of stigma around here, and it might help you approach it a bit better... at least in regards to me.”
“Oh...” Ruth massaged her arm before continuing. “Anyway, your powers... uh... d-do they offer physical enhancements?”
“Well, yes.” Tara started. “I don’t use my magic like that, though; it’s a disservice to those that are more physically inclined like you.”
“You see it as... cheating?”
“I guess you could think of it like that. Besides, I’m much better with teleports and shields than strength and speed enhancements.” Ruth nodded as Tara continued. “Why do you ask? You’re usually more suspicious towards people with my powers.”
“I... was thinking,” she started. “I was thinking that, perhaps... in the event that we come up against more enemies with psychic abilities... perhaps I could train against you when you are utilizing your powers?” at this, Tara frowned.
“I could...” she started. “But it’s a bit dangerous; you could get hurt if you get hit by an errant blast or something.”
“No, this is something that I must prepare for.” Ruth firmed up her stance. “No matter what it takes, I will do what I can to protect you from any attacks or powers.” there was a lengthy pause, Tara still looking hesitant. Finally she allowed a smile.
“Well, I’ll talk about it with Sister Naomi.” Tara said. Ruth nodded, hoping to move onto another subject before another voice cut through the hall.
“Battle Sister Ruth,” the Custodes said. “The Empress requests your immediate presence.” Ruth’s heart dropped into her stomach. A chance to speak with the Empress filled her with joy... and dread. Especially dread. She swallowed and turned to face the golden clad warrior.
“I am not presentable, my lord.” she said. Dressed in training khakis and boots, covered in sweat, she would be an embarrassment in front of the Empress.
“The Empress requires your immediate presence, Battle Sister Ruth.” the Custodes said. Ruth swallowed again before looking to her Sisters, then back to the Custodes.
“Very well.” she said, bowing her head as she fell in step behind the Custodes. She did not bother looking up, keeping her focus on the heels of the golden clad warrior. Anything to prepare herself for standing before the Empress, humble and quiet...
That was the role she would play: Ruth the humble, Ruth the sinner, Ruth the Sister that had tossed the Empress’ personal student around like a sack of flour.
Ruth was led to a darkened room. Once she was sure she was alone, she knelt with her hands clasped in front of her. “Most Holy Empress, forgive me for my inattentiveness,” she prayed. “You call upon us to be prepared for Your Calling, and here I stand ill dressed and lost in soul. Cleanse my soul, O Master of Humanity, that I might be pleasing to your eyes.”
“You already are pleasing, but not in ways that you might think,” the Empress’ bell-like voice echoed through the hall. “I care not for physical pleasures, but only in the purity of mind and soul, purity of the heart.” Ruth did not look up, listening as heavy footfalls crossed to her. “Will you guard my lambs?”
“Always, Empress!” Ruth said quickly. “You are the shining light of Humanity, the guiding soul of all who are lost. I would march to the Eye of Terror for you.”
“Will you feed my lost?”
“Of course! I would sacrifice my armor, my flesh, everything so that all who seek Your light would never be blind to it.”
“Would you reject me?” Ruth choked. Why would the Empress ever say something like that?
“Never! You gave me life when I would have perished. The teachings of Your prophets gave me meaning, the words of Your saints gave me direction. I would sacrifice my body and life for You, but I would never turn from Your light!”
“Even if I was not who I am assumed to be?” Ruth could feel the Empress looking down on her, but dared not look up. “Even if Tara as well is not who you think she is?”
“No! You are Truth, You are the Light! There is nothing that would ever turn me from that!” Ruth quivered slightly. Why was the Empress asking her to give up her faith? What was the meaning behind this... blasphemy?
Ruth gave a small gasp as she felt a soft hand cup her chin. Gently, the Empress lifted her head up, and Ruth could feel her tears flowing freely as she witnessed Her Majesty and Beauty. She was dressed not in her armor, but in a beautiful white gown that would make even the greatest of highborn ladies weep with envy. Her hair twisted around her in some unseen wind, her entire body gleaming like the sun. Her eyes were soft, like a mother looking to comfort her child, and her smile was slight but sincere.
“Then go,” she whispered. “Go and serve, for your soul shall never break. Even as the powers of darkness lash against it, you shall never be far from Light.” Ruth wept, tears streaming down her face as the Empress smiled upon her.
The Empress trusted her. She would not back down from that honor.
...
Twilight no longer ached from her training. She was never unfit, but the Sisters’ training had toned her such that the woman looking back in the mirror barely resembled Twilight at all. Her body was marked with numerous scratches and small scars, her muscles far more defined than she thought possible. The scared newcomer was gone, replaced by a hardened fighter ready for anything that came at her.
That was the hope, really. Twilight needed to see if that was true.
She finished washing her face when there was a knock at her door. “Enter,” she said, the door swinging open to reveal Sisters Veronica and Rebecca, both dressed in their armor and carrying a white robe between them.
“Tara,” Veronica said. “Sister Naomi has concluded that you have completed your basic training and may be inducted as an honorary member of Our Order.”
“We would need a Canoness and several more years of training to make you a full Sister,” Rebecca said. “But there is no Canoness, no time, and you are... a special case.”
“Oh...” Twilight said, massaging her arm for a moment. “Thank you.”
“There is one more thing,” Veronica said. “A ceremony, when a Sister fully pledges herself to the Order and receives the symbol of her Order. We’re here to escort you to that ceremony.”
“You need to wear this,” Rebecca said, passing Twilight the robe. “... only this.” Twilight hesitated. Not at the risk of exposing herself; that would be just like when she was back home in Ponyville. Rather, the battleship was nothing close to hospitable for that sort of thing- she could freeze before they led her to... wherever it was they were conducting the ceremony.
Starting to think like a full human, she thought. It must happen, I suppose... just as long as I don’t fully lose myself.
“Okay.” Twilight took the robe from the Sisters, quickly changing out of her regular clothes while Veronica and Rebecca waited patiently. The cloth was a bit itchy, but Twilight put the thought out of mind as she rose to face the Sisters.
“Come now, young Tara, for the path to righteousness lays before you.” Twilight fell in step behind Veronica, Rebecca following close behind. The hallways seemed darker than she remembered, but Twilight no longer feared such things as the dark.
With her Sisters at her side, and Celestia to guide her, she would never be lost.
She was led to the training room, now darkened and thick with incense. Veronica and Rebecca fanned out, and Twilight could see Naomi standing before a makeshift altar, Judith and Ruth flanking her with what appeared to be short whips. “Welcome, sister,” Naomi said. “Step forth and kneel at the altar of Her Most Serene Lady.”
Twilight stepped up, tugging at her robe to keep from tripping over it as she knelt before the altar. Naomi regarded her for a moment before continuing. “Sisters, we gather today to see the induction of Tara, Student of the God Empress Herself, into the annals of Our Order. Who today bears witness to this initiation?”
“Sister Rebecca of the Order of Our Martyred Lady.”
“Sister Veronica of the Order of Our Martyred Lady.”
“And who stands ready to cleanse the initiate of her sin and shame?”
“Sister Ruth of the Order of Our Martyred Lady.”
“Sister Judith of the Order of Our Martyred Lady.” Twilight did not look up, keeping her eyes focused at the ground as Naomi stepped forward.
“Sister, you have met the necessary physical and spiritual sacrifices that is asked of all our Sisters, yet one last test remains. Expose to us now all that lies within you,” Twilight said nothing as Sister Naomi roughly yanked the robe from her body.
“Understand that only through blood and sacrifice, either yours or the enemy, will you be fully cleansed,” Naomi said. “I ask you: Are you willing to lay down your life, body and soul, that the Empress’ great plan may be achieved?”
“... I am.” No sooner had Twilight finished saying this did Ruth strike her, the whip scraping across her back. Twilight tried not to flinch, but did wince slightly as she felt small rivers of blood dripping down her back.
“Are you willing to destroy all that is unclean before Her Holy Name: the mutant, the daemon, the heretic, the alien?” Twilight hesitated again. She was not fully human, and they asked her to stand against aliens... her friends?
No, she thought. Aliens like those that tried to kill Sister Veronica. Those, I can stand against.
“I am.” Now it was Judith’s turn to strike her.
“Are you willing to give guidance and counseling to the lost, the weak willed, so they may see the Light as you do?”
“I am.” another strike from Ruth.
“Are you willing to die for your Sisters, to understand that the bonds between you and the Empress, you and your superior, and you and your squad may be kept above all others?”
“I am.” another strike from Judith. Twilight’s back now ached, but she maintained her composure as the Sisters closed in around her.
“I find your soul set on the path to repentance,” she said. Now rise, and take the station of our office of Sister.” Twilight rose, her focus breaking slightly as something cold clasped around her leg. Metal; segment by segment it clasped around her, Veronica and Rebecca setting her legs while Ruth and Judith set her arms and torso. The injuries on her back stung slightly as the cool metal closed against it, but Twilight pushed the pain out of her mind as her chest-plate and pauldrons were secure.
Twilight allowed herself a small gasp as she looked down at herself. She was dressed in armor not unlike the Sisters’, except it was a light lavender set between gold lining. Her chest-plate was dominated by an alicorn, its wings sweeping outward in flight, and her left shoulder was marked with a six pointed star, her cutie mark. She could feel her magic reaching out and mixing with the mechanics that moved the armor, giving it an almost supernatural flow as she moved about. “It’s... it’s beautiful.”
“Crafted by the Empress’ own hand,” Rebecca said. “I helped her forge it.”
“And there is another gift from Her Majesty.” Naomi reached down behind the altar and produced a sword. It had the hilt and guard of Twilight’s old sword, but it was now a silvered longsword that put even the beauties of her old weapon to shame. Twilight gasped again as she saw five familiar etchings set in the blade: an apple for Honesty, a butterfly for Kindness, a balloon for Laughter, a gem for Generosity, and a lightning bolt for Loyalty, all terminating in an amethyst star set in the guard.
“You... you all knew about this?” Twilight asked, taking the sword from Naomi.
“Not at first, no,” Ruth said. “The Empress had many questions for us, but once we had completed them she told us of her ‘surprise’. We may be your shield, Tara, but this weapon and armor will protect you from far more than we can possibly imagine.” Twilight smiled, tears welling up in her eyes. Even if Celestia was not physically presence, a part of her would always be there to guide her.
A pause, Twilight’s face dropping as she shifted around in her armor. “Does it always chafe so much?”
“Oh...” Naomi’s face dropped to, her undamaged cheek flushing red. “There is an undersuit that should help you interface with the armor and be more comfortable. We’ll find a spare one when we’re finished here.” Naomi was interrupted as a warning bell rang through the battleship. “Perhaps a bit sooner than that, I’m afraid.”
...
“Empress,” the ship’s astropath said. “A fleet of ships is dropping out of Warpdrive; they will be within visual range soon.”
“How is that possible?” Celestia asked, striding up onto the bridge. “How could this fleet hide themselves from our sight so easily?”
“There is something interfering with my sensors... something massive.” the astropath replied. Either an attack from the Hive Mind... or something more sinister. Celestia turned to the captain of the ship.
“Are we at battle stations?” she asked.
“Yes, and the fleet is arranging to defend against this attack,” the captain replied. “If it is the enemy coming to seek revenge, we shall send them screaming back to Hell where they belong.”
“Empress! We have visual on the fleet!” Celestia looked out the nearest viewport, watching as realspace twisted about as the new fleet emerged. Battle Barges, Strike Cruisers, destroyers, hundreds of ships and escort craft pulling out of the Warp, armed and ready for battle.
But that was not what caught Celestia’s eyes; what did was the massive distortion in realspace behind them. It produced forth a great structure of stone and metal, surrounded by even more ships and bristling with heavy weapons. It was far out enough that it would not cause major disturbances to Caesaria’s gravity, but its impact would be felt in other matters.
“The Rock,” Celestia said, firming up her stance. “It appears that the Dark Angels have come to test my authority.”
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Hopefully the Dark Angels quickly get the message that they are far out classed and are quickly delt with.
ok jizzed in my pants now twi has custom armor and sword
8274783
Maybe Lionel finally wakes the fck up and spanks some sense into his sons?
Great chapter and character development going! Love it! Though I want to see a heated interaction between Celestia and Twilight as she gets more hardened.
Also still waiting for me wolves!!
Oh this should be very good!
Time to see how the Lion reacts to the new Master of Mankind.
This is going to be interesting.
Oh, Dark Angels. Could be worse.
Like Discord popping in to bring cupcakes and ask how everypony is doing because ponies back home are worried sick.
oh....THAT Lion.
Never played WH or any of its descendants, so I've been doing a lot of Wiki reading to understand this and the previous story.
Wasn't Ultramar one of the first things the Tyranids overran? Or am I thinking of something else? I'm pretty sure it was the home base of one of the big Space Marine chapters that got et.
8275396 Yes and no: Hive Fleet Behemoth took a chunk out of Ultramar (home of the Ultramarines), but the Marines managed to destroy the bugs before they could completely eat the region.
Oh boy.... Please let Azerael be in a listening mood....
I must say that this is easily one of my favorite stories. The characters the plot its just so wonderful to read. I have never been disappointed or bored with a chapter. Nor have I skimmed through one. I truly look forward to the next chapter. I will most like be reading this all again soon. Thank you for all your hard work.
8275555 Azrael? No, his boss needs to be in a good mood.
8275560 Thanks
8275570
You don't mean.... Oh boy...
Ok, first Corvus, now the Lion shows up, and I believe you've already hinted that Guilliman is gonna be defrosted soon.
I already have the perfect thing ready for when Vulkan shows up.
8275541
One thing I've always wondered is, was it always named Ultramar, or did the Imperium name it that just so they could have a reason to name a chapter the Ultramarines?
8275584 I mean
8275596 I think it was named that after Bobby G and the Ultramarines set up shop in Maccrage
Holy frag... is... is that some kind of Force Armour? as i understand it, Force Weapons are kinda like Power weapons, but able to channel a Psyker's power; i can only imagine what a suit of Power Armour derived from that kind of tech is capable of.
Corvus: So Johnson, how's that homosexual night club of yours?
((High tier 40k meta joke x3 ))
So, Twilight is a Sororitas now. Oh shit, KEEP HER AWAY FROM THE GREY KNIGHTS!!!!!!!!!!
So, Naomi is Honesty, Rebecca is Kindness, Judith is Laughter, Veronica is Loyalty, and Ruth is Generosity. Just how literally, though...
...well, it will be interesting to see.
8275807 You are very close when talking about the Sisters...
8275820 Interesting theories.
Remember: the fallen are the real loyalists.
8275986
Living Saint status would also handily explain away her long absence, if she ever had to return to the Imperium at a much later point in time.
I may have said it earlier but I say it again, I love how human you characters are while at the same time, stay in flavour with the 40k Verse. Every time I read one of your chapters, I shed tears for my dear, departed Sisters of Battle/Inquisiton table top army that GW destroyed in their greed for our money.
Also, joy, more REALLY overzealous nutcases to deal with and this time, all of them wear power armor.
Quickly! Break out the beans. It is time for the traditional ritual farting contest.
...No? Wrong universe?
Tara/Twilight had better find a kickass flowing cape to go with that armor, all I'm saying.
8274783
It would be good for the Empress/Sunbutt to get a second Chapter firmly, decidedly on her side.
Face to chest maybe ;p
Ruth was lead to a darkened room
Will you guards my lambs
1. Led.
2. Guard.
Repetition
Missing opening quotes before "Now"
8275607
Macragge and thr Five Hundred Worlds of Ultramar were a thing before the Emperor showed up; it was Konor's (Guillimans real daddy) dream to reunite the five hundred worlds. Guilliman was well on his way before the Emperor came along. It's probably part of the reason the Emperor left him to it: Guiliman immediately bent the knee, didn't make him do any tests or anything silly, just brought his worlds he already controlled directly onto the Imperium.
Though i suppose its never mentioned if Guilliman renamed the Empire he had to Ultramar in honor of his gene sons, but its not unheard of for a Legion to be renamed after meeting their Primarch (War Hounds to World Eaters, Dusk Guard to Death Guard, as examples...)
The Tyranids also ate the world of Tyran (hence Tyranids) and the Ultramar worlds of Prandium and Sotha (which was the Scythes of the Emperor homeworld at the time...)
8275807
It will also be interesting to see if Twilight turns back into her pony self before the end.
8276721
I'm certainly expecting a revelation of her (and probably Celestia's) true nature at some point, but not a transformation so much. I would certainly welcome the latter, though.
8276923
I, for one, would really like to see Twilight, if not Celestia too, turn back into pony form one way or another. That would be a real test for the sisters of battle, for the Space Marines and primarchs, and the rest of the Imperium.
Twilight Sparkle in another three months:
vintage.ponychan.net/chan/files/src/136105005204.jpg
8277426
And maybe a few years later :
pre11.deviantart.net/ca27/th/pre/i/2014/283/c/1/twinquisitor_by_shaadorian-d821seg.png
(Source)
8276258
Tia is about ten feet tall, if not taller, if memory serves, so...maybe more like face to belt buckle?
8277902
Here we are talking of a Custodes
They are somewhat smaller than the empress or a primarch and I assume that the Sisters are a bit taller than average...
I thought Ruth's scene was going to be toning her back. But she got the carrot instead of the stick. And what a fantastic way to write it. You can feel that Celestia knows how to work a divine presence. That really felt like a worshiper knelt before their god - as it rightly was.
Edit: Oh Celestia damnit. The Dark Angels are always ruining something. They could stand to eat some humble pie.
8276115
The fact that she is also the Empress' personal student in their eyes does also help her cause.
8275773
And PURGE!
SOMEONE BRING ME FANART OF S.O.B. TWILIGHT
8278369
Sisters of Battle are just ordinary human women in battle armor, really. They have no genetic modifications or anything else of the sort.
8278596
Ruth was less in need of a beating than in need of a spiritual moment, which is basically what she got here.
Agreed on the Dark Angels, by the way. Between seeing a Primarch follow her, and everything else, hopefully they are brought to heel before they can cause any serious issues.
8279203
I know, but even then they should not be AVERAGE women, what I mean is that, as being a Sister of Battle is a strenuos and physically demanding activity it is probable that the women going through the whole training and remaining alive are above average.
So typically a Sister is on the tall side of the Gaussian distribution.
8279888
The above average aspect of Battle Sisters is more owed to intense training than to any genetic modifications or physical oddities. They have above average toughness, endurance, strength, and faith. I'd say they're likely mostly (not all) close to the higher end of average, but not unusually tall beyond that.
The truly defining factor of the Sisters Militant is their fanatical levels of faith and discipline.
8279928
Yes and being at the upper range means that they get to be around six feet, a custodes is eight to nine, so she would get more or less at chest height.
8280137
Between 5'7 and 5'9 barring general increases in average heights across humanity, but fair point. Now, if she had been standing next to the Empress, who stands at least ten feet...
I imagine such meetings often look somewhat comical.
8280305
8280137
Don't forget to factor in height increases while wearing power armour; which in all cases adds to their wearers height (some designs more so, than others). Sororitas power armour may pale in comparison to Astartes power armour, but it still does plenty to make its wearer noticeably taller and more physically imposing than they already where.
So all the Mane Six are gonna show up and prooooobably do something awesome.
Damn you Primaris Marines!
There was that one time on Monarchia.
Honestly, the Custodes must be getting real tired of going back-and-forth. But tired is what Custodes are good at.
Wow, the Sisters of Battle are some twisted motherfuckers.
NEEDZ MOAR DAKKA
8275586
Also for when Vulkan shows up and finds out about ponies: