2.03- The Halls of Prometheus
The Halls of Prometheus
Celestia took a breath as she meditated, clearing her mind as she focused on the Warp. Ahead she could feel the presence of Nocturne, and beyond that the fortress moon of Prometheus the Salamanders used to shield their charges. Beyond, she could feel the numbness brought upon by the Hive Mind, the faint cries of a billion chittering monsters echoing in the furthest reaches of her perception.
Neither seemed to be intersecting... yet.
Celestia took another breath, dismissing that path of inquiry as she turned her attention back to her fleet. She could feel the growing light that was Twilight, flickering in and out as they continued their transit through the Warp; with her power growing as it was, it was only a matter of time before the other denizens of the Warp took notice, or she attempted to take matters into her own hands and overstretched herself. Celestia knew Twilight could handle the latter, but the former...
I still have time to train her. She thought. She will be fine.
The others were slightly less bright among the tides of the Immaterium, such that Celestia had to focus further to pick out individuals. The Sororitas that had attached themselves to Twilight were calm lights among the void, their faith and prayers a surprising bulwark against the Immaterium. The Inquisitor and his henchmen were much the same, perhaps more weary from their own encounters against the Tyranids.
All were strong points from which Twilight could draw upon. All she needed was to remember how best to do that.
“Empress.” Celestia recalled her soul as one of her Companions stepped into her room. “We are preparing for the return to Realspace.”
“Good.” Celestia rose, straightening out her armor before continuing. “Have all personnel report to their stations. I have glimpsed through the Warp and have not found sign of battle, but we must be prepared nonetheless.”
“Yes, Empress.” Her Companion departed, Celestia following soon after. She could feel the mechanics of the battleship working as they prepared for reentry, the ship humming with every step she took. Soldiers and crewmen ducked past her, Celestia keeping her attention forward so they would not feel the need to genuflect before her.
Eventually she reached the bridge, just as the navigators called out in preparation. “Destination point reached. Exiting Warpspace in three... two... one.” Outside, space contorted as a glowing Warp rift opened, spitting the battleship and select escorts out before winking out of existence. Soon other craft joined it, the Sanguinium Martyres breaking through first followed soon by preliminary Dark Angel attack cruisers. Celestia would give the fleet a few more minutes to form up, then they could proceed.
Before the fleet lay the planet of Nocturne, partially eclipsed by its moon Prometheus. The planet’s surface shimmered with volcanic activity, flashes of red and yellow breaking through thick clouds of ash like fireworks in a night sky. Around the moon she could see another fleet of ships, some bearing the green and black of the Salamanders while others bore the insignias of many other Chapters of Astartes, some familiar while others eluded her memory. The fleet barely reacted as the Crusade armada pulled out of Warpspace, continuing their vigil around Prometheus as the newcomers pulled closer.
“Empress,” one of the bridge officers said. “We are receiving a communication from the leading Battle Barge.”
“Open comms,” she replied. “I will hear what my sons have to say.” there was a pause before the message came through, a brief bout of static filling the bridge before a voice spoke.
“By the marks on your ships you are of the fleet under the Empress of Mankind.” the voice said.
“You speak to the Empress Herself,” Celestia replied. “We come seeking war against the Hive Mind, not Prometheus.”
“We gathered; it is a dark day when the greatest of Mankind come hunting for the lowliest.” the voice replied. “I am Vulkan Mir’shen, Forgefather of the Salamanders. It is an honor to have one as illustrious as yourself in our presence, though I believe you may have been misdirected.”
“The honor is all mine, Mir’shen.” Celestia replied. “Though, ‘misdirected’? How so?”
“There are no Tyranids here, at least not as far as I know.” the Forgefather gave a short sigh. “We were preparing to travel to Rynn’s World, where the jaws of Cetus close in around our brothers in arms. But with your arrival, perhaps the plight of the Southern Imperium maybe cleansed.” Celestia massaged her chin with her hand. Perhaps Mattias’ psyker had been wrong in her prophecy, but then she was not explicit in Prometheus being attacked directly...
“While time is of the essence,” she said. “I would like to speak with you before departure, so I may get a better understanding of the situation that awaits us on Rynn’s World.”
“Of course.” Mir’shen replied. “Your ships will no doubt need time to refuel and resupply for the mission ahead. I will alert Chapter Master Jurr’arth of your arrival.”
“Of course.” Celestia said. “I look forward to speaking with you in person.” With that the message closed out, Celestia shifting on her feet for a moment before speaking again. “Put me through to the Rock; I will speak to the Lion.”
“Yes, my Empress.” there was another pause as the connection reached the Rock, Celestia mulling over her next actions before the comms crackled again.
“Empress.” the Lion’s voice echoed through the bridge.
“Jonson.” Celestia replied. “We will be convening with the Salamanders on Prometheus. The tactical situation has changed and I would like us all to be of the same understanding.”
“The Tyranids attack the sons of Dorn rather than those of Vulkan.” Jonson said. “I figured as much with how the tides of the Warp are being reported. If we are to attack, may I suggest a two wave assault to ensure the creatures are properly engaged.”
“I will consider it. Even with our forces here we need to be prepared for what tricks the Tyranids may have prepared for us; once we have consulted with the Salamanders, Corax, and others who have battled the Hive Mind, we can draw together our strategy for the coming war.”
“... of course.” One did not have to be Empress to detect the disappointment in the Lion’s voice. “I will meet you on Prometheus, then.”
“I am sure we will have much to discuss.” Celestia said as the comm closed out. She cast another glance towards Nocturne, watching as the lava fields flared once more through the haze.
It has been too long since I have visited this world. She thought, her mind drifting back to the fields of fire where she had met Vulkan millennia ago. If only... if only it were under better circumstances.
... Nevertheless, we must be prepared. I shall not fail the Imperium again.
...
Corax waited in silence as he and the Empress descended towards Prometheus. She had not said much, but the Primarch was more than capable of figuring out what was on her mind: planning for the next stage of the campaign, searching for a means by which she would not sacrifice her army to only slow the Tyranids down.
Corax had seen lesser men driven to madness in an attempt to solve that issue. Perhaps the Empress would fare better.
The lander jostled as they reached the ground, though Corax and the others aboard barely moving. The Empress was the first to approach the exit, waiting patiently while the ship made full contact before opening to Prometheus. Corax made his way through the Empress’ entourage of Custodes, stopping by her side just as the door opened.
“You never set foot on Prometheus during the Crusade, did you?” the Empress asked as they left the ship.
“I did visit several millennia after the Heresy, during my search for absolution.” Corax said as he looked around. “I cannot say that much has changed since then.” Prometheus was, perhaps, a bit more hospitable than Nocturne itself, but only because the volcanic activity of the moon was slightly less than that of its mother planet. Even within the spaceport the Salamanders had constructed there seemed to drift a thin haze of ash, swirling about Astartes and men like darkened ghosts. Out of the shadows Corax could see Tara followed closely by the Inquisitor, his henchmen, and the Sororitas, Tara waving her hand in her face to break up the ash cloud as best she could.
“Not exactly a hospitable place,” she said once she reached them “But then everywhere else we’ve visited hasn’t been much better...”
“Perhaps the Tyranids might invade a paradise world during our travels.” one of the Valhallans said, earning a jab from the other.
“Atmospherically it may be harsh, but the residents of Prometheus are not known for turning away guests.” the Empress said. “Now be on alert; our hosts have arrived.” Corax shifted his gaze again, spotting a trio of green-clad Astartes approaching for a different hangar. The leader of the group was cloaked in a fine drakescale cape, his helmet tucked under one arm to reveal his face to the group. Like all of the Sons of Vulkan his skin was as black as Corax’s armor, his eyes like smouldering embers, but like Corax’s missing brother carried an air of friendliness about him that far offset all other features. The Salamanders stopped before the Empress, the leader giving a respectful bow before speaking.
“Welcome to Prometheus, Empress,” he said. “I am Mir’shen.”
“Well met,” the Empress returned the bow before continuing. “Lord Corax of the Raven Guard should be known to you, and this is my personal student, Tara.” the Forgefather regarded Tara for a moment, stepping away from the Empress before speaking to the young woman.
“I have not heard much of the Empress’ Student,” he said, pausing before smiling and offering his free hand. “But I look forward to serving alongside you nonetheless.” Tara hesitated, more out of surprise at the gesture of Mir’shen offering a hand to shake, but she soon broke out of her surprise and returned the gesture.
“If we are finished with pleasantries,” Jonson said as he and his followers came up behind Tara. “We have a campaign to plan.” Tara seemed to withdraw towards the shadows with the Lion’s arrival, but she did appear to be keeping a calm face before the Astartes and Primarchs in her midst.
“Of course,” Mir’shen said, seemingly taking on similar reservations as Tara. “Please, this way.” The Empress took point, following the Forgefather as he and the Salamanders led them further into the base. Jonson, unaccustomed to normal pleasantries as he was, pushed on ahead to stay close to the Empress, while Corax, Tara, and the others followed behind. The young psyker seemed content to speak with her fellows, so Corax allowed his attention to drift as he listened in to the various conversations.
“You have caught us in a most difficult time, Empress,” he heard Mir’shen say. “The Time of Trials has struck Nocturne, and with so many of our brothers assisting the battle against Cetus we find ourselves lacking in forces to send to your aid.”
“In time,” The Empress replied. “You have your families and world to worry about, after all. But when the Trials have passed and Cetus lies broken, I look forward to battling alongside all of the Sons of Nocturne.”
“We welcome the honor, Empress.”
“I see that the Sons of Vulkan have not changed their... demeanor.” the Lion said, slowing his pace so he could speak with Corax.
“In this time of uncertainty, that we can find welcoming allies at all bodes well for our mission.” Corax replied.
“That you are even speaking to me must be a side effect.” Jonson gave a scoff. “You have changed, Corax, else you would not be speaking so highly of welcome tidings over clinging to the shadows.”
“I change as needed, Jonson.” Corax cast a short glance over his shoulder, spotting Tara chucking at something the shorter Sororitas said. “My absolution may still elude me, but there is a time and place for clinging to old reservations.”
“Do not tell me you were won over by the Student, were you?” Corax furrowed his brow as he looked to the Lion. “Student of the Empress she may be, she is a child grasping at things she cannot begin to comprehend. She is a liability to the Empress and the Crusade if she is kept coddled like this.”
“Do not underestimate Tara.” Corax countered. “There is potential within her that even the Empress does not see. To keep her away for fear of her relative inexperience is to stifle that potential before it has the ability to mature.”
“I do not fear inexperience on the battlefield. If I did, our numbers would be far depleted for want of experienced troops.” the Lion kept his focus ahead, though Corax could see the frustration on the other Primarch’s face. “It is here inexperience off the battlefield that is so dangerous; she knows nothing of war, of what we were created for, and her attempts at understanding are beyond naive. She will only slow us down until her blundering leads to deaths beyond imaginable.”
“Perhaps if your critiques take on airs other than quiet contempt, we would not reach such a point.” Corax muttered, just enough that the Lion did not hear him. Jonson was long on trust and short on respect, Corax knew, but there came a point when stubbornness eclipsed normal caution.
Perhaps the Lion just needed to be reminded of what that point was.
Corax had fallen silent for the remainder of the trip, letting his observations broaden again. They had been led towards a larger building, great doors overshadows by a carving of two drakes rising towards each other, Corax noting that the one on the right was slightly larger than the others. Vulkan had spoken at length of the challenge that led to his service for the Emperor, so seeing some remembrance of Corax’s old friend was... welcoming? Pleasant? A reminder of what was lost due to arrogance and stupidity?
Given the Empress’ brief hesitation as she crossed the threshold, most likely the latter.
“Jurr’arth is not here, unfortunately,” Mir’shen explained as he and other Salamanders led them further into the citadel. “He is on Nocturne making sure the preparations for the Time of Trials have been properly carried out. I have been asked to speak in his stead, though...” the Salamander gave a sheepish grin. “I am not much for grand speeches and master planning like he is.”
“All of us have the opportunity for greatness, though,” the Empress countered. “Perhaps not in the ways we see it, but even the shadows of giants have edges.” Mir’shen seemed to accept that, giving another smile as they came to a stop in a larger atrium. Seven great seats had been arranged in a circle, centered in a large map of the galaxy. The Empress and the Lion stepped towards the display, with Corax and Mir’shen following behind; they were no strangers to campaign planning, but despite her claims the shadow of the Empress was not one to easily get out of in these matters.
“This map is up to date?” the Empress looked to Mir’shen.
“As of the last report we received from Rynn’s World, yes.” the Forgefather replied. “Two companies of my brothers are there along with the Crimson Fists and other Chapters, as well as supporting Imperial Guard regiments, and they try to keep our communication lines as open as possible.”
“The feat must be impressive.” the Lion said, zooming the map closer to the planet in question. “I have studied these creatures since my awakening; they project a psychic null field that blocks all Warp travel, be it by ship or telepathic communication. Since they appear to be trying to envelop Rynn’s World in its entirety, that field must be particularly strong.”
“All fortresses, have weak points.” Mir’shen countered. “We were just lucky enough to find a few gaps within the Shadow we could use to break through.” Gaps... Corax mused. Intentionally set or not?
“That will be our point of entry, then.” The Empress said. “The only way Rynn’s World and the rest of the Southern Imperium is to survive is if we find a way to break through that field reliably. I could smash my way through with a bit of focus, but there is always the risk of the Hive Mind pressing back in such a way they trap us there.”
“We’ll need a suitable beachhead.” Jonson examined the map a bit closer. “If enough of their more potent psychic nodes are disabled, you can stabilize the rifts long enough for adequate reinforcements to arrive.”
“And I suppose you would be the one leading the charge?” Corax asked, perhaps a bit to curtly than he intended. The Lion did not seem to notice.
“If the Empress is to hold the Hive Fleet at bay, she cannot do both that and command armies in the field at the same time. We have the resources were the three of us can strike the Tyranids from multiple points in a number of ways; the xenos will be hard pressed to adapt to all threats coming against them.”
“With all due respect, my lord,” Mir’shen said. “The Tyranids are equally known for their adaptability, and Cetus is no exception. Whatever advantage a change in tactics may have will not last long before they can counter us.”
“Then we shall have to strike swiftly, won’t we?” the Lion countered. Mir’shen did not seem to have a reply to that, instead giving a half-hearted nod before turning his attention back to the map.
“If you are seeking to attack the hive nodes, our reconnaissance flights have told us the main ‘command centers’ are situated on the second continent Magalan.” Mir’shen shifted the map so a display of Rynn’s World’s geography appeared. “Most of the fighting has shifted to the primary continent Sorocco, which brings us to the matter of civilians; there are still nearly thirty million non-combatants on the planet, most within the planetary capital of New Rynn City. We have done our best to evacuate the populace from the path of the Hive Fleet, but we are running out of places to move them before they are swept away as well.”
“We will not have to worry long about shunting non-combatants from one city to another.” the Lion muttered. “If this plan is successful Rynn’s World will be back in our hands with little trouble, then we can address the civilian question.”
“Do not be so dismissive, Jonson.” the Empress said. “These are my subjects we are discussing, after all.” she looked back to the map. “If conditions are right, we can see about evacuating as many as we can until the Tyranids are defeated. The fleet will provide adequate protection for them.”
“The Rynnites and the Crimson Fists will be forever in your debt, no doubt.” Mir’shen said. “We have already taken on a number of refugees here, but with Cetus’ attacks and our own Trials it has proven... difficult.”
“No matter the costs, we shall do all we can to save Rynn’s World and her people.” the Empress looked to Mir’shen. “You have my word as Empress that this will be carried out.”
“... You shall not find us wanting, Empress.”
“On the matter at hand,” the Lion said. “Corax can take a force to move to the civilian locations and perhaps relieve the Crimson Fists at their fortress, if it still stands upon our arrival. I will take my sons to attack the Tyranids on Magalan to break their psychic shroud, and then the Empress can bring the main force to crush the xenos completely.”
“A two wave assault might mean delays if we are required to bring our full force to bear.” the Empress mused. “But then a forceful attack might knock the aliens off balance long enough for a killing strike...” there was a pause before she spoke again. “Yes, we will try this. I will need all the focus I can get to make sure the fleet actually gets through the Shadow in the first place.”
“What about the civilians?” Corax and the others turned to see Tara stepping up. “Moving thirty million people to safety in the middle of a warzone will cause so many logistical problems that might cause plenty of deaths without there being enemies to worry about.”
“The Empress’ words were that evacuation was tentative on the conditions being favorable, Student.” Jonson responded, furrowing his brow. “We cannot divert resources just to guard civilians without losing the rest of the planet.”
“Of course.” Tara shot back. “But when conditions are favorable? Do you have a plan for that, or would it just boil down to ‘kill more Tyranids’?”
“Favorable as that would be, Tara does have a point.” Corax offered. “All the battle plans and glorious victories won’t mean much if there’s nothing left of Rynn’s World to show for it.”
“Agreed.” the Empress said, giving a nod. “Tara, draw up a plan to organize the civilian population for evacuation of Rynn’s World should the need an opportunity arise. Take as much time as you need; the journey to Rynn’s World is a long one, but I am sure you will come up with a most satisfactory plan.” If the Empress noticed Jonson’s scoff, she did not make mention of it.
“I’ll do my best.” Tara said, beaming. “I promise you I won’t let you down!” And at the very least it will keep the Lion’s criticisms to a minimum, Corax thought. Organization would be a simple task, and Corax had seen Tara’s preliminary work on Caesaria before everything went to the Warp; she would be a perfect choice to make sure civilians were kept away from rampaging hordes of Tyranids and the soldiers intent on killing them.
As the discussion continued, Corax spotted movement among the shadows of the citadel. It was a slight movement, a flicker followed by prolonged stillness, but Corax was no fool not to recognize what he had seen.
Somehow, even with the Hive Mind bearing down upon the Imperium, Lorgar was watching them.
...
Celestia and the Primarchs had more planning to do, and Mattias had left to gather some supplies he had ordered prior to leaving Caesaria. That left Twilight alone to explore the spaceport of Prometheus for a day or so, and perhaps begin some drafts of her plan to evacuate Rynn’s World.
Twilight stifled a yawn as she fanned through another report on Sorocco’s food distribution. Several hours of hard studying on Rynn’s World had given her a better perspective on the besieged Agri-World, but there was still so much more she had to learn before any plan could be implemented... making sure there were still healthy civilians to evacuate being high on her list of priorities. That she did not get the best night of sleep before their arrival on Prometheus did not exactly help matters either.
Come on Twilight, she thought as she opened the report again. You’ve pulled dozens of all nighters before- you can get through this one with no problem. Her confidence renewed, she grabbed a nearby pen and continued jotting down her notes, humming some song Pinkie had taught her to keep herself focused. She continued for several minutes before there was a knock at the door. “Who is it?”
“Lord Mir’shen would like to speak with you, Tara,” Veronica called through the door. “Are you able to speak with him?”
“Oh, of course.” Twilight set her work aside and rose to face the door. “Please let him in.” there was a pause before Veronica pushed open the door, the Forgefather stepping in shortly after. The Space Marine still seemed as friendly as ever, despite his rather frightening visage, and Twilight could not help but let a smile form on her face.
“Good morning, Miss Tara,” Mir’shen said as Veronica closed the door behind him. “I hope I did not disturb you.”
“Of course not.” Twilight replied. “I was just trying to get my information together before we head out. I know Rynn’s world is something like four months away-”
“Six months.” Mir’shen corrected.
“Right, but the point is I want to have all my information together before we get there so if the Empress wants to implement my plan, it’ll only take a day or two of explanation instead of a week of coordination.”
“I see.” Mir’shen crossed to Twilight’s table picking up some of her notes and giving them a quick scan through. “Interesting script. Where did you learn this?” Twilight blinked in surprise before realizing that most of her notes were scratched out in Equestrian. Oh dear.
“Oh, that?” she said, giving a nervous chuckle. “That’s just... that’s just my homeworld’s dialect. It’s... very obscure and hard to learn.”
“Interesting...” the Forgefather flipped through her notes again. “What is the name of this planet? Perhaps one of my brothers has visited and knows the language.”
“Probably not.” Twilight mumbled, drawing a confused glance from Mir’shen. “Oh, I mean the planet’s called... Equ... Equus III! Yes, that’s how it translates into Gothic.”
“Equus III...” Mir’shen looked back to Twilight’s notes. “Unusual name. It draws from the Old Gothic term for horse, does it not?” the Forgefather turned back and regarded Twilight for a moment. “Most likely founded by former soldiers, then. You appear to have some mix of Cadian and Mordian stock in your blood, so the possibility is not unlikely.”
“Oh, right.” Twilight fidgeted. Mir’shen was merely being friendly, she knew, but any more probing questions might lead to her slipping up about Equestria and Celestia’s true identity. The Salamander might not react too poorly to the revelation, but then when did anything meet expectations with this place?
“Regardless, I’m sure your plan is a fine one, and I look forward to seeing it implemented.” Mir’shen set Twilight’s notes down and turned to face her. “That is partially why I sought you out, to thank you.”
“... Really?” Twilight asked, one eyebrow raised.
“Too many Astartes and men of power seem to neglect what we are truly fighting for: the continued survival of mankind.” Mir’shen gave a small sigh. “Some of my... colleagues would think that killing xenos and heretics is the most reliable option, but at what cost? Should we destroy Mankind along with our enemies?”
“Of course not.” Twilight said. “We just seem to rush from battle to battle without really considering what we leave behind... I think that’s why Lord Jonson doesn’t like me all that much; I’m not doing things on his schedule.”
“The Dark Angels have always been a proud and aggressive Chapter,” Mir’shen offered. “Their Primarch appears to be no exception. Do not fault him if he comes off as too harsh, for that is what he is most used to in these times of trouble. At the very least we should be thankful that Lord Corax and the Empress are present to provide some alternative to the Dark Angels’ approach.”
“I suppose.” Twilight looked back at her notes. “I guess I’m just not that used to such harsh criticisms like that. A few arguments and some debate, maybe, but total rejection?”
“Give it time, and perhaps Lord Jonson will be more open to your ideas.” Mir’shen said, offering Twilight a friendly smile. Twilight quickly found herself returning the gesture as Mir’shen continued. “It is good to see that the Empress has chosen such a kind soul to be her student.”
“Oh... thank you.” Twilight brushed a lock of hair behind her ear. “It’s... it’s been a while since anyone’s said that to me. Most just call me naive.”
“The Sons of Vulkan are no strangers to such criticisms. One of our former Chapter Masters, Tu’shan, nearly killed another Astartes commander who bombarded a civilian encampment during the Third War for Armageddon and passed it off as nothing.” Twilight allowed a small gasp of shock. “Compassion is a dwindling resource in the Imperium, Tara. Cherish the gift you have been given, for it gives you a strength that not even the foulest monsters of the Warp can overcome, even if your allies do not always understand it.”
“I...” Twilight found herself chewing her lip. Such words of encouragement were hard to come by in this universe, even from Celestia at times; now that she was hearing it from a Space Marine, Twilight felt at a loss. “... Thank you, Mir’shen.” she said finally. “It’s been... difficult, trying to stay optimistic with everything going on around me. I’ll be sure to take your words to heart.”
“It will be a dark day for the Imperium when you don’t.” Mir’shen replied. “Now, I have other duties to attend to. Perhaps before we march for Rynn’s World, we can talk again about your plan.”
“Oh, I’d love to!” Twilight cried before she realized she was still in a somewhat formal setting. “I mean, I would be honored to discuss it with you, if the Empress does find the plan to her liking.”
“Of course. By your leave.” and with that Mir’shen was gone, slipping through the door as Sister Veronica opened it for the Astartes. She paused for a moment before looking in at Twilight.
“Did everything go well with the Forgefather?” she asked.
“Oh yes.” Twilight said, still beaming. “Everything went far better than I could have imagined."
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We have the resources were the three of us can strike the Tyranids from multiple points
1. Where.
No plan survives contact with the enemy. Or so the saying goes. One has to wonder, how much will survive when in contact? Especially since there's a shadow force taking interest.
'Corax.'
I am thrilled to see the Salamanders, by the way. They're just good people.
I think Magnus would like to have some words
9048766
To be fair, there could be worse Primarchs for old Magny Magic to meet. Like Leman for instance
Meanwhile, on the Planet of Sorcerers, Magnus is being salty that something else has the same name as his *former* planet.
Great chapter btw! Keep up the great work!
9048766 ... of all the spelling errors I have to make, this...
This is what I get for posting these close to midnight after vacation
I don't think you meant that planet here....
Oh Empress. You if anyone should know the dangers of wishful thinking...
Also: That was a dangerous slip up on Twilights part... All that needs to be done is for a little curiosity and/or some dinging to take place and her lie will be uncovered.
Good chapter btw
.
Oh dear Empress. If only things were ever that simple.
9049295
She had a much, much better excuse/explanation to give and even her powerful mind apparently didn't think of it. "This is a coded lexicon from my homeworld. In the greater Imperium, I believe only myself and the Empress can read it. If she approves of my plan, I will translate it into Gothic and then disseminate it." If he then asked about her planet after a somewhat more lengthy spiel like that, she would have had enough time to engage her brain for a better answer as to the nature or name of her homeworld. I'm actually surprised Celestia didn't give her a cover story for that, since it's so important was obviously going to come up.
Yay, Salamanders! Proving that fire and friendship go together like chips and salsa.
Does Vulkan still live?
9053073
VULKIN LIVES!*THUNK, THUNK*
Must resist chanting Vulkan Lives until Vulkan arrives. Can’t hold it for long
*Equus III does not show up in any records*
“Impossible, perhaps the archives are incomplete?”
Though in the 40k universe, the archives being incomplete probably isn’t a huge shocker.
Is it me or is Twilight’s human name Tara referencing the actor Tara Strong who is the actor who voices her.
9068317 Completely intentional
Ah I see then
Yes, it's a trap but it's a trap that the Loyalists have no choice but to spring. Maybe the simple shock of the Imperial forces both springing the trap and being ready for it will enable the Dark Angels to complete their element of the initial attack plan and weaken the Tyrannid forces enough to make the liberation of Rynn's World somewhat smoother. It will still be bloody; the simple fact that they are fighting Tyrannids would ensure that. However, maybe the slaughter can be a bit more one-sided.
I think that Mir'Shen has inadvertently stumbled upon the Empress's long-term plan for Tara - To teach and ensure the rebirth of compassion in the post-Second Crusade Imperium.
9048759
If you had to pick a Legion to be in? I diliberate between Ultra’s and Salamander.
9079491
Salamanders all the way. Just a bunch of friendly dudes who want to help people. So what if they have a slightly unhealthy obsession with fire. They only use it on enemies.
9053542
Considering the Administratum loses planets due to rounding errors every now and then, it's easily in the realm of possibility. Twilight just has to talk to Celestia and let her know what cover story she's inventing so they don't give conflicting answers; there's really no better cover for a lie than the Emperor herself telling you it's legit. Even if you know it's a lie, do you wanna be the guy to try calling her on it?
Also, that brings to mind a detail that's been bothering me. The Emperor going by the title of Empress feels wrong, for a couple reasons. First, it doesn't roll off the tongue as easily: "For the Empressss!" ends with a hissing sound that limits the force and volume you can put into it. Second, it is the same being they have always known as the Emperor, just in a slightly different shell; as much as he has a name at all, it's The Emperor. All the existing texts and prayers that refer to him now have to change his name to Empress, which is a LOT of text to go over by a LOT of menials. I understand referring to Big E as a female in the present tense, but I feel like she should have kept the same name and title of Emperor to help the Imperium more easily accept her return.
Your Lion is basically the opposite of canon Lion. Which is weird. He’s known as the most militarily brilliant of all the Primarchs and plans carefully and with great detail. He is very much known for his patient, clinical approach to warfare and decision making. Yet, you have him charging in without thinking and with barely a token semblance of a plan. And you suggest this is normal for the Dark Angels.
Oh Twilight, the Emperor IS Celestia’s true identity. Not the other way around.
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bruh the emperor has been Celestia for billions of years that's like saying your true identity is the four-year-old Roblox cringelord you used to be back in the day when you're an eighty-year-old man with a family smh
Is it me, or is every comment by Bronzer in a Warhammer fic downvoted?
Ah the Salamanders. One of my favorite chapters of Astartes
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It’s because he’s a dick in most of them. He adheres too rigidly to the 40k lore, rudely points out what he thinks are flaws, regularly berates the fic authors for not conforming to his personal twisted headcanon, and often talks about fantasies he has where the human characters kill the ponies. I think he deleted them, but a while back he had some blog posts ranting about how women were weaker than men and shouldn’t be in military combat roles, as well as some human supremacy story ideas that involved (surprise surprise) subjugating all the ponies by being an edgy bastard.
People don’t want to see that sort of constant negativity in the comments of a fic they’re trying to enjoy.
Ah, I was waiting for this, for when Twi meets the Sons of Vulkan. I am pleased at how it turned out.
I would like to pet dis creata!
Shouldn’t it be from?