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It's been some time since I've posted in Short Stories with the exception of posting in Lady_Canoness' excellent The Inquisition I, II, III series. My last attempt And we all fall down hit a brick wall due to the changes made to the Steel Wings' Fluff. Whilst I haven't completely abandoned it, it will be some time until I get around to either overhauling it or re-writing it. That said, in order to get my take on those enigmas/laughing stocks* known as the Rainbow Warriors, I thought I'd try my hand at writing about them, or more specifically, one of them. (*delete as applicable) Well, let's go! Pochutec, also know as Prism. North continent M41.xxx. Waking with a start, Varagol realised that he was going to be late. He was going to see his brother take the first Trial of the Primarch. Par'Mich had already been taken by the Warriors of the Inti, being found worthy a week ago. However, the Trials are always undertaken in the homeland of the prospective candidate. At 6 years old, Varagol was not old enough to pass the rites of adulthood by 5 years, and there by missed his brothers acts of courage and valour on the battlefield against the scum from the Tabour Clan. Stretching the aches from his body as he left his family's dwelling, he ran to the village meeting place. Already a large crowd had gathered, and he could see his Father standing proudly with his oldest son. His demeanor changed when Varagol caught his eye. "Lazy child!" he scolded, "You should have been up hours ago. Your chores are unfinished from yesterday, and to be tardy today of all days..." "Sorry father" Varagol replied meekly, cringing at the prospective beating he may get later. However, his father could see the fear in his eye, and his mood softened. "Son. Whilst I sometimes wonder why you are as lazy as you are, I want you to understand the importance of this day. It is not only a proud one for our family, it is one of a solemn promise." "To the Inti?" asked Varagol holding his hands crossed across his chest, thumbs in opposing directions. "Yes. Our people, every Clan has a solemn duty to Him. To send Warriors to the stars. To join Him in eternal battle against the evil ones." "Tell me about them again", Varagol's eyes were wide in eagerness to hear the stories again. "There isn't time as you know full well. And the less said about them the better", replied his father, "However,just remember this day. If you are hard working, diligent and are true to the Clan, you may one day follow your brother in His service" Par'Mich had watched the conversation with both amusement and trepidation. "Father, ou make it seem as if I have already been accepted. I have much to accomplish, if I am to proceed further". "Perhaps. But regardless of what happens, I am proud of you son". A shadow blocking out the sun few upon them. Turning, Varagol looked upon the most gigantic being he had ever seem. A Warrior stood before them two lengths taller than his father. He was armoured in black plate, with a shining blue Shoulder guard. A grim skull looked down upon him. Varagol fell backwards startled. "The first trial will commence in five minutes", the Warrior stated, his clipped tone indicating amusement at the looks of wonder. "I suggest you be ready aspirant". "Aspirant? What is that?" asked Varagol now back on his feet, curiosity lining his face. The Warrior seemed to ponder for a moment, before answering. "An aspirant is another word to say 'contestant' or potential recruit young one" He said, amusement now blatant in his voice. "Would you wish to become one?" Varagol, looked squarely at the Warrior. "Yes", he replied simply and took a defensive stance his brother taught him some moons ago. Horrified Par'Mich and his father took the boy by the shoulders and pulled him away, both bowing in apology and stammering words of appeasement. The Warrior roared with laughter, his armour clattering noisily. By this time most of the Village had turned their attention to this new distraction. Raising his hands to his head the Warrior turned his mask to the left and lifted it clear. A Face tanned by age and alien suns was revealed. Eyes of Emerald looked upon them, his white hair was long, tied in a top knot as was the local custom. "Such courage from one so young!" He exclaimed and roared with laughter again. Waving away profuse apologies, he knelt on on knee, the better to see his would be attacker. "What do you know of my kind?" he asked, gently now almost in a whisper. "You are a Warrior of the Inti!" Varagol recited diligently. "That I am", rumbled the giant, "However, Inti is not his real name. He is known to many as the Emperor, and I undertake His will." Varagol had noticed that the giant had a token in his hair attached to the top knot. It was one of this village....of his family! Smiling, the giant removed the token from his hair. "You recognise this? You should. I am of your family, although I have not been back here for many moons." Replacing the token, his tone regained it's solemnity. "One day, young one you may get your chance to prove yourself too." Standing, he turned away to officiate the beginning the first trial. He turned slightly to look the boy in the eye as he walked, his thunderous steps echoing. "That all depends on whether you finish your chores, boy". Any comments?