The Catachan 23rd

[Valin Darkblade]

Suko moved like a wraith through the thick jungle of the planet. It reminded him of home and kept him on edge. Nothing as yet on the world had tried to kill him and it was making him a little concerned. Catachan was a world where every step was a fight for survival.

 

Suko hit the soft floor of the jungle slithering forward on his stomach. His hands moved with out thought checking the long rifle and removing the safety, a flash had caught his eye just to the north of his position. The wind shifted slightly and he caught just a hint of a new scent on the air.

 

He took his time moving forward each inch gained a lesson in subtlety and silence. His regiment had been dropped on the planet with orders to hold against an unknown force. Slowly Suko moved his body over the edge of a small mound just a short distance from the trace of light he had seen.

 

Suko cursed softly to himself as he caught sight of a small band of warriors dressed in elaborate armors. The armor was form fitted the helmets long and spherical he could just make out the muted shades of white and green through the armor. He quickly counted numbers silently watching as the force gathered.

 

Suko had survived countless engagements against the eldar and knew them well enough to make out the various units. He was surprised to see no heavy weapons or tanks. Suddenly the light flashed again causing him to cover his eyes and blink away the pin point lights on the edges of his vision.

 

Suko cursed as his vision cleared forcing his body backwards off the small mound. He had to get back to the forward base and let command know, an eldar Aultarch could mean only one thing, a craft world Invasion.

 

The thought had only passed through his mind for a moment before he felt the cold caress of the blade against his body. The sudden warmth of his victuals spilling onto the jungle floor brought a shock to his face as he reached down and touched the blade protruding from his chest.

 

The Ranger placed his boot on the humans back pulling his knife free and pressing him into the soil. “M’lord the interloper is dead we have achieved stealth.”

[Valin Darkblade]

Donovan glanced up at the distant flash of bluish light in the darkness, he paused holding the splinter mine just over the hole as he waited for the report of a rifle firing. No report pierced the thickness of the jungle just the soft silence of the night. He moved quickly burying the mine as the rest of his squad slipped from the jungle to surround him.

 

They were all veterans of long hard campaigns hand picked by Donovan nearly five years before. Bernon the heavy weapons expert, he was a bear of a man standing close to two and a half meters. He carried a modified heavy flamer that hung from his side his army resting on it, Across his back where strapped a pair of specially made shotguns to fit his massive size. Scars riddled the mans body from head to toe his left eye pulsed a deep crimson curtsy of a bionic implant.

 

There was Lorcan the teams demolitions expert, crazy even by Catachan standards. Donovan had seen him charge in to many times to plant a devastating charge and walk out of the inferno laughing. He was a crack shot though and able to get into places none of the others could get to.

 

Donovan looked over Chale as he stood beside Bernon, he was dwarfed by the mans size but Donovan knew he wouldn’t budge if it came to a fight. He had more heart and attitude then any two men combined for all his size. He was their engineer and communications expert. The man could make a trap out of anything Donovan had come to rely on him as had the team when they were stuck behind enemy lines.

 

Last was Harid, a true enigma, he spoke little if ever to any man and often Donovan would find him away from the rest of the squad tending to his weapons. Like the rest Harid had his place in the squad, there were none better at close engagements with the enemy. Harid was a true ghost slipping from the jungle into their ranks and slicing them down before vanishing again. Harid carried a pair of devils claws along with the standard Catachan fangs that he could use to lethal effect.

 

Donovan ran his eyes over his men before saying anything. “Status report.” Bernon spoke first.

 

“Charges planted along plausible fields of advance but no sign of the enemy yet. Nothing is here Sergeant unless that bluish flash was something..”

 

Donovan turned toward the location of the light. “Then lets move out and find out. We are not out here for our health we are to recon and report back. I want two meter intervals. Weapons cold on this one knives only we are to recon and report. Avoid a fight if we can. Devils lets move.”

 

The strike cruiser broke from the warp back into real space on the far side of the system. Its hull was sleek and trim, she was built for stealth and speed. Her hull was as dark as the vacuum around her no lights reflected from the hull or came from those housed within. The ship turned hard to port maneuvering for the dark side of the nearest moon.

 

Captain Bertram strode across the observation deck as the ship broke from the warp his eyes fixed on the fifth planet in the system. He had forgone his power armor for the simple robes of an aspirant for much of the trip. The padding of footsteps could be heard behind him faint except to the heightened senses of his Astartes body. His voice stayed low as he maintained his gaze on the distant planet. “Speak.”

 

The scribe started as he stared at the massive frame of the Captain before him, he stumbled over his words as he tried to speak. “Capt… Captain the ships commander wishes me to inform you that we have arrived in the star system and should arrive at our target in three standard days at our current velocity.

 

The Captain turned walking for the exit passing by the scribe. “Inform the sergeants I will meet them in the war room in one hours time to discuss what we are here to do.” He said nothing else as he stepped from the Observation room the door hissing close behind him.

 

He stood outside the door for several minutes collecting his thoughts his breathing shallow. “The Emperor Protects, we each have our mission and if the Emperor wills it we shall survive.”

[Valin Darkblade]

Darius rolled leaping up planting his foot on the pillar launching himself forward, he planted a hard right cross against the jaw of the aspirant tucking his body as he landed pushing himself off the ground and landing both feet into the chest of another. Sweet beaded down his face as he ducked a telegraphed swing of his squad leader. He caught the Marines wrist flipping his body backwards onto the training mat both feet landing against the Squad leaders chest and launching him over into the air. Darius rolled to the right dodging the foot of another aspirant as he brought himself into a low crouch. four members of the squad still stood the others having taken hits to remove them from the training session. His eyes judged the situation reading the movements of each Marine seeing were the next attack would come from.

 

Darius grunted as he brought his arms up in time blocking the rush of two Marines blows raining down quickly. He gave a grunt of exertion as he threw his body behind tossing them backwards. They were improving, there actions less choreographed, he checked one with his shoulder staggering him before dropping and sweeping the leg from under the other. His elbow landed on the Marine's chest removing him from the bout. Darius rolled over the Marines body as his acute hearing picked up the swooshing sound of the incoming kick. Darius was a fraction of a second to slow catching a glancing blow to the side of his face. His vision exploded as the bone shattered in his cheek, he rolled over the mat stopping at the edge before rising to a knee.

 

He heard the Squad leader call an end to the match as the ringing subsided in his ears. He glanced around the room seeing why Kalin had called an end to the match. He accepted a towel from an aspirant wiping his body down as he moved toward the scribe. "Speak Scribe"

 

"Brother-Sergeant my apologies but Brother-Captain Bertram would like to see all Sergeants in the war room." Darius nodded to the scribe. "Inform the Captain I shall be there shortly." The scribe bowed his head low to Darius before moving from the training area.

 

Darius turned toward Kalin as the rest of the squad gathered around. "Brother Kalin, take the men through the remainder of the close order drills weapons free this time and then I want you to spend time on the range. We are closing on our target and I want the men to think and move as one." Kalin nodded to Darius turning to the other Marines. Darius moved to leave the training room a smirk on his face as he heard Kalin begin to bark orders. Kalin would never change he was the fire to Darius's ice, he knew he had his men's respect but Kalin was the heart of the squad.

 

Darius stood for a moment as the doors closed behind him his hand rubbing his cheek were the bone was already knitting itself back together. He recited the mantras of the Chaplins to slow the blood racing in his ears, he had never taken a serious hit from any of the aspirants in 400 years. Either he was getting slower or they were getting faster. Darius banished the thought as he headed through the bowels of the ship toward the War room.

[Valin Darkblade]

Well folks its a little more rushed then I wanted but the Marines have arrived. Thoughts, comments. Comments do drive the writing of any story. I hope everyone enjoys so far.

[Valin Darkblade]

Harid slipped through the jungle his eyes scanning everything, his ears attuned to the slightest change. He had slipped ahead of the patrol to run scout as they moved toward the sight of the flash of light. He paused as the jungle stopped for a moment revealing a path wide enough to let two Chimera's pass side my side. He reached up pressing a button on the side of his goggles. The world around him changed from the green haze of the night vision to the blue haze of the spectral feed. He scanned the pathway his eyes catching the light imprints and residual spectral trail of the enemy. He counted at least forty moving in a spread formation, a light force nothing more then a strike team. He switched the goggles back to night vision as he heard the sounds of the rest of the squad moving closer. Harid turned as they approached catching sight of Donovan as he approached.

 

"Roughly forty tracks are light heading toward the forward Base." Donovan nodded at Harid motioning to the squad spreading them out to cover the path. Harid took one more glance at the road before sprinting across it unslinging his rifle, he slide into a covered position turning to cover the road. It took only moments for the remainder of the squad to cross the open ground. He broke from the squad again slipping deeper into the jungle tracing a path toward the location of the light.

 

Harid traced his hands over the foliage as he moved seeing signs only a Catachan would have noticed. He recognized Sukos marks telling the squad the path was clear ahead. Harid picked up his pace, Suko had not been heard from in some time. It was not unusual for Suko but something ate away at Harid, this planet, this campaign felt wrong. Donovan had kept the squad together through campaign after campaign and seen them through some of the worst conflicts in the Imperium but this was wrong.

 

"Harid, Harid" Harid jumped inside his skin at the sound of his name faint in the stillness. He rushed forward his night vision catching a large silhouette on the floor of the jungle. Harid slide to his knees beside the form ripping his goggles off, his breath caught as he saw the fading look in Suko's eyes. He was on his way to stand at the side of the Emperor, his fighting was finished.

 

"Harid, Harid" Harid started as he looked down at his friend, that was impossible, Suko's body was cold the life gone from him. What was going on? Harrid looked down at Suko again running his hands over his eyes to close them. He had been dead a few hours. Harid was scanning the area around Sukos lifeless body when he felt the cold steal of a long rifle pressed against his hand. Harid skirted backwards his eyes wide as he looked down at Suko's body.

 

"Harid, Harid avenge me"

 

Harid ran his hand over the long rifle picking it up as he made a sign to ward off evil. He couldn't understand it how could he. Harid shook his head quickly moving to cover Sukos body with foliage. He strapped the Rifle across his back moving off toward the source of the light. "Rest well my friend your skills will be missed."

[AngelOfDeathXIII]

Sounds good. I really liked the part of the Marines training :) I thought I'd let you know that I enjoyed it because I wrote something myself and I know how much it sucks not to get any feedback xD

I'll be looking forward to more stuff, it looks nice ;)

[Valin Darkblade]

Thanks for the support. Trying to keep this simple and stick to the two Squads as much as possible despite the numerous players in this lil story. Enjoy there will be more to follow.

[Valin Darkblade]

The Eldar melted into the jungle as he slid closer to the human base. He had watched the five humans slip from the jungle through the sights of his scope. He relished the looks on their faces as they saw the destruction wrought by his brothers on their meager little force. They had slipped in close in the last hours of the night catching many of the humans off guard.

 

It was an easy slaughter led by their mighty Altrach and his personal guard. They humans had put up a fierce resistance but no Eldar fell as they scythed down the humans one by one. He shook his head before peering back through the scoop on his long rifle, he blinked raising his head to look again.

 

He continued to watch seeing their leader move from position to position checking the dead. Something was wrong but he couldn’t pin it down. He took a slow breath watching as the leader raced toward the main bunker the look of utter hatred on his face turning to concern as one of his troopers called him over.

 

He lined up the shot ready to spring the trap, they had gathered around the main bunker just as expected. He sighted his rifle on the concealed bundle of explosives that edged the entire bunker, one well placed shot was all he needed. He blinked looking again as he prepared to take the shot, something was wrong. One two…there were four were was the fifth?

 

The sudden sound of a twig snapping behind him caused him to start his finger squeezing the trigger the shot went wide as he whirled. He fell backwards as a boot landed against his body sending him sprawling into the jungle growth. He looked up to see the missing human standing over him a pair of long blades held at the ready in each hand. No it couldn’t be he had killed him. He looked on the face of the man before him watching as his face shifted. He brought the rifle up blocking the low sweep of the mans sword the clang of steel on steel further shattering the quiet air.

 

He pushed back with his feet scooting away as the second blade came down on his rifle. The rifle exploded in a shower of sparks as the blade tore through it shattering the fuel cell that powered it. The man leapt back as the cell hissed and exploded in the Rangers face sending him rolling into the clearing. In an instance the elder felt the man pinning him to the ground, he felt the mans hands rip the remainder of his shattered helmet off tossing it away.

 

He struggled to shove the human off his body but it was useless. The cold kiss of steel caressed his neck as he looked into the shifting face of the human spitting at him. In one motion the blades cut through the sinew of his neck and severed the bone sending his head rolling across the ground. “How?” was all the could think before his life ended.

[Valin Darkblade]

Darius stepped into the war room his eyes drawing in every detail as he glanced around. The room was Spartan except for the banners hanging along the walls. Ten thousand years of history and war hung from the walls depicting the glory of his chapter through the ages. He removed his eyes from the banners gazing toward the holo-map that took up the center of the room. Eight men stood around it, Darius knew each of them by their deeds and reputation throughout the Chapter.

 

There was Stovan of the first company, a brooding man prone to fits of rage on and off the battlefield. None could question his valor or skill but Darius was mistrustful. Zachariah sergeant of the 7th Company, a fierce warrior skilled at the use of devastating assault jumps. He had earned a reputation as a deadly shadow surprising the enemy breaking them along one flank before appearing suddenly else where on the battle field.

 

Darius was still eyeing each Brother-Sergeant when a voice broke through his thoughts.

The voice was low but resonated with power and authority. “Let us begin now that we are all gathered.”

 

Darius looked on as the Captain stepped forward pressing a key on the console of the holo-map. The map leapt to life in a blaze of iridescent green providing a 360 degree view of a planet in the star system.

 

Captain Bertram continued to speak his heads moving over the map bringing up highlighted sections in smaller maps. “This strike force has been assembled with one objective in mind. Destroy the Craft world and stop the Xenos filth. Word has reached us that Imperial forces are already on planet and under heavy attack. Currently it would take us three days to reach the planet from our present location, however this ship has recently been refitted with technology unknown to the rest of the Imperium. We will be making a series of short warp jumps that will get us within target range in eighteen hours time.”

 

Darius heard the inhale of breath from each man around the table. That was not possible warp jumps close to any gravity well would rip a ship apart. Bertram raised his hand calling for silence as voices began to murmur. “Yes it can and has been done though larger vessels as yet have not been tested do to the strain it places on the ship. Before anyone else decides to raise a voice in dissent this mission will be two fold.”

 

Darius felt the Captain’s eyes on him causing him to look up from the map as every set of eyes looked to him. “Brother-Sergeant Darius will lead a planetary assault with his squad and four others along with two of our revered battle brothers.” Darius looked at the Captain a momentary look of shock passing his face. “Is there an issue Sergeant Darius?” Darius shook his head finding his voice “No m’lord you do me a great honor.”

 

“Good, while Darius makes planet fall her,.” Darius watched as Captain Bertram brought up a section of the map. “the remainder of this taskforce will strike at the heart of the Eldar. We will destroy their Craft world. Any additional questions? No, then good the remainder of your orders will be received prior to assaulting our objectives. Dismissed.”

 

Darius stood looking over the map as the others slowly turned to walk away. His eyes took in every mark of the planet the paths the eldar would come from the density of the foliage. He committed every detail to his memory before turning to walk away.

 

As the doors closed behind the sergeants a figure stepped forth from the shadows to stand beside Captain Bertram. He visibly shivered as the figure stopped beside him. The figures skin was bone white a stark contrast to even the dull grays of the ships interior. His eyes though were blacker then the deepest night, devoid of all color and pigmentation. They seemed to suck in the light as they darted back and forth in the mans head. When he spoke his voice sounded like the crackling of parchment, raspy and dry. His armor was jet black stripped of all ornament save the large ribs placed across the chest plate. “Will he do Brother-Captain?”

 

Bertram shook his head avoiding the mans gaze. “He will have to be Lord Chaplin he will have to be.”

[Dominicus]

Great story so far. Keep it going.

[Valin Darkblade]

Chaos erupted around Donovan as the shot hit the side of the bunker spraying permacrete shrapnel in all directions. Donovan dove for cover as he felt the burning sting slash over his cheek. He raised his voices orders barking out as natural as breathing. "By the Emperor, Contact bring fire to bare I want a sit rep NOW!" He hit the ground hard sliding behind a barrier and slamming against the side of one of the bunkers. He cursed pulling his pistol out as his shoulder hit the permacrete erupting in a flash of pain.

 

He glanced over seeing the men taking up positions looking for the line of fire. He heard Bernon's voice bark out deep and resonating. "Sniper contact unknown distance to the south east."

 

Donovan peered over the barrier scanning the jungle in the low light conditions of the rising dawn. His eyes flashed as he saw the explosion and the figure get thrown back from the jungles cover. "Hold fire contact south 100 meters." He drew a bead on the target leveling his pistol for the killing shot when he saw Harid leap from the jungle landing on the prone humanoid his blades cutting the creatures head off in one smooth motion.

 

"Provide cover" came the words from Donovan's lips as he vaulted the barrier dashing toward Harid his eyes scanning the treeline. He slid into a kneeling crouch beside Harid as he watched his friend kneel over his kill bathing in the spray of Xenos blood.

 

"Harid, HARID" He reached up grabbing Harids flax jacket. "By the Emperor man get to cover!' Harid turned toward Donovan a haunted look in his eyes as he looked at his Sargent. "They have moved on. He was left to ambush any returning patrols and destroy the forward base. They seek a relic laid buried here on this planet something to revive their Craftworld. Sergeant if they find it the Imperium will fall."

 

Donovan looked Harid over finding no wounds on his cursory check. "Harid how do you know this?"

 

Harid reached back touching the rifle running his hand over it lovingly. "Suko"

 

Donovan's eyes went wide as he shook his head at Harid. "Suko fell in battle return to the squad." Harid rose moving quickly toward the forward base. Donovan looked over his shoulder at Harid. "Not a whisper of this you understand?" "Aye Sargent."

 

Donovan looked down at the body of the humanoid Harid had killed a curse coming to his lips. "Eldar" he whispered.

 

"Sergeant what was that?" Donovan whipped around his pistol leaping to his hand as he drew down. "By the Emperor Chale make some noise would you."

"My apologies Sargent, I have the comms up and running the chatter is not good. The Colonel is all over the radio, looks like we have a large Eldar assault planet wide. We are taking a beating but our lines hold."

 

Donovan took Chale's offered hand rising up moving back toward the forward base. "We won't be rejoining the army just yet, we have another mission. May the Emperor Protect us." Donovan approached the forward base gesturing for the squad to approach him. "As you have heard the Eldar are all over the planet hitting our brothers. We will not be rejoining the Army. A strike force is responsible for this they are after something here we are going after them. We will avenge our brothers. Gather everything of use. Lets move Devil's....."

[Valin Darkblade]

Darius stepped into his cell the door hissing closed behind him. "Lights" The lights ignited lighting up the sparse quarters Darius kept. The room contained a footlocker next a small cot that contained all of Darius's belongings. His eyes fell on the banner that hung on the wall to his left. The banner was stained with blood and torn through with bullet holes. He laid his hands on it memories flooding back. He took a deep breath before slipping into the small armory attached to his quarters.

 

The lights were on as he entered a servitor stood tending to each piece of his armor applying anointed oils to each piece. Darius stripped his robes off folding them and setting them on the small work bench beside his gauntlets. He took a jar of oil from the bench applying it over every inch of his bare flesh his skin shinning in the light. He stepped to the rear of the small armory turning around placing his back against the back plate of his armor. The servitor stepped forward holding up the front plate of Darius's armor.

 

Darius held his arms out wide as the chest plate was put into position, connections hissed venting air as they synched with the contacts sticking through his Black Carapace. He adjusted as the armor attached to his Carapace getting comfortable inside the armor. He turned stepping back into his leggings, the servitor sealing the armor around his flesh. Darius closed his eyes as the boots locked in place adjusting his legs as the magno locks sealed the armor around his flesh covering him in ceramite. He lifted each leg moving his body as the fiber bundles inside the suit began to respond to his nerve impulses.

 

Darius felt the upper vambraces seal around his arms as the servitor continued place armor against his skin. Darius held his arms as the servitor approached with his gauntlets, he slide his hands in feeling the ceramite slip over his hands and up his forearms locking into place. The familiar whoosh of air escaping the suit hit his ears like a sweet melody as it created a seal between his body, the suit, and the environment. He flexed his fingers moving his body in a slow Kata testing each motion ensuring the fiber bundles were working and responding. He opened his eyes looking at the servitor.

 

The servitor approached Darius with one of the shoulder pauldron's held in his hands. Darius lovingly ran his hand over the black enameled pauldron his fingers tracing the outline of the Raven on it in stark white. Darius turned presenting his left shoulder to the Servitor as he attached the last pieces of armor. Darius felt the suit against his skin its caress and touch as familiar to him as taking a breath. He closed his eyes as the Servitor finished remembering the first time he had put on the Mark V armor. The names of every Marine who had worn it for ten thousand years. The armor was a relic rescued from Istavann.

 

"Master" Darius opened his eyes to look at the helmet the servitor held in his hands. It was beautifully crafted the angles and lines smooth the black enamel shining from the oils applied. Darius took the Corvus helm sliding it over his head, he felt the locks click into place the armor sealing itself fully. The world was plunged into darkness for a moment before the internal systems synchronized and the display ignited before his eyes. The world was bathed in spectral views for a moment before the helmet adjusted to the lighting in the room giving him a clear view of everything.

 

The vox system in the suit amplified his voice as he spoke. "Thank you Servitor" Darius stepped forward reaching up to the wall sliding his hands into an ancient pair of lighting claws his fingers wrapping around the internal grips. The claws instantly closed around his armor sealing to his suit, power lines snaking into the armor. He touched the claws together causing a light spark of power. Darius had been presented the claws early in his career as a Space Marine, a relic passed down through the chapter to Marines for uncommon valor on the field of battle. Intricate markings were woven across the claws the entwined with the Chapters Symbol.

 

Darius attached the right claw to his hip sliding his hand out of it as he stepped from the armory, he reached up to pull the ancient banner down from the wall rolling it up with utter reverence. "In your memory my old friend." Darius stepped from his cell heading toward the hanger his boots clanging heavily upon the deck.....

[Valin Darkblade]

Well folks things are progressing nicely with the story. So far I am happy with the feel of things with it and its current tempo. I have a few ideas in mind for whats coming up but need to make sure everything is in good order and leaves you all frothing at the bit for more.

 

Much more is in store for the Guardsmen of the 23rd as well as the Battle Brothers of the Strike Force. Questions will be answered hidden truths revealed and a Chapters dark secret brought to light. Stay plugged in for much more.

[Dominicus]

Two good updates, just a few things grammatically to point out:

-Sargent is spelt Sergeant, maybe have them refer to him as "Sarge".

-There are several spots were you can add commas. Read your work out loud after writing it, and see where a pause would fit to make it sound better.

 

Otherwise, great job.

 

And I'm assuming that the Astartes here are Raven Guard? They're the only Chapter I know that had the white Raven emblem who fought at Istvaan V.

[Valin Darkblade]

Thanks for catching the spelling errors, was a bit rushed with the last posts and didn't do a good job of going over everything. As for the Chapter yes the Raven Guard.

[BassWave]

I'm enjoying the story so far, keep it up!

[Valin Darkblade]

Due to unforeseen things I am going to have to put this on hold for a short bit. Please folks bear with me and I will get the next chapter up soon.

[Valin Darkblade]

Donovan gazed out across the open clearing toward the rising monoliths surrounding the Ancient temple. The temple rose several stories high, built in a fashion that was ancient even when the Emperor of Mankind first took to the stars. The magnifications of his goggles brought the structure to life as if it were right in front of him.

 

The temple was stepped but flowed outward, the harsh lines turned to soft curves as the runes and intricate patterns flowed across its surface. The suns above reflected from the surface creating a shimmering dance of colors across its surface the metals used to carve the symbols casting it back. The temples stark white surface making the same colors explode outward.

 

The monoliths rose around it in a five pointed star like dark fingers grasping an ivory rose the light spilling across them and dancing around the temple in an intricate dance. The display served a second purpose though, it was a barrier keeping the temple safe. Donovan was amazed at such craftsmanship, such intricate defenses that one would not seem them until on top of them.

 

He turned his eyes from the temple to gaze at the forms of the Eldar swarming around trying to find a way through the barrier. He counted at least four squads of Guardians setting up a defensive perimeter and several of the Dire Avengers. In the middle of the Eldar stood the Aultarch the massive wings of his jump pack swept upward from his back giving him a look of majesty. Donovan did not miss the fact that he was surrounded by more attired similarly, an honor guard of the deadly Swooping Hawks.

 

The force arrayed before him was less then a hundred warriors but that was far more then he had at his disposal. They had come across another squad of Death Worlder’s on long range patrol and had linked up under Donovan’s leadership. He had convinced them after explaining what was going on with the main army and the vital mission at hand.

 

He motioned for Harid to come forward as he turned back to the waiting men. “We are out gunned and outnumbered but we are Catachans. Nothing on any world brings fear to us we bring fear to our enemies. We shall stop them or we shall die in the attempt.”

 

His words brought a low grunt of support from the men around him. He motion for the men to take up their assigned positions throughout the jungle surrounding them. They had covered the area in pit falls and explosives through out. Donovan hoped his plan would work to draw the Eldar into the jungle against them. Chale and Lorcan had worked for several hours along the perimeter of the jungle laying stage to a series of deadly traps that Donovan hoped they could draw the Eldar into.

 

Donovan laid a hand on Harid’s shoulder, “Well old friend shall we start another glorious battle?”

 

Harid’s features creased in a grin as he brought the rifle up to his shoulder peering down the scoop his target lined up in his cross hairs. The first shot broke the silence of the jungle with a mighty eruption. Donovan watched the elder as the second shot rang out, he saw the first Eldar drop the armor of his neck exploding in brilliant spray of fluids, armor and flesh. The second round impacted before the first Eldar hit the ground. Harid fired twice more two more Eldar dropping to the ground as the enemy began to move.

 

Donovan flinched as the first shuriken catapults opened fire. Harid fired once more his aim true the round quickly moving over the field toward the Aultarch. Donovan took in a sharp breath as he saw the Eldar whirl around his blade coming up to block the incoming bullet.

 

More fire came to bear on their position as Donovan tapped Harid on the shoulder. “Fall back.” He sprinted back 30 meters sliding into a blind dug into the soil. He pulled the covering down as Harid slid in beside him. He kept his eyes open as the rate of fire increased on the location they were just at.

 

The crack of another sniper rifle rang out shifting the attention of the Eldar as they advanced in disciplined formations laying down covering fire as they moved on the Catachan’s positions.

 

The other patrols sniper laid down several more shots in rapid succession, Donovan could see the Eldar dropping with each shot. Less then twenty yards till the trap, ten. Donovan heard the sharp crack of Harid's rifle, another Eldar down. They turned opening fire on their new position, spreading out to keep both snipers down.

 

Donovan leapt from his hiding place his rifle barking fire with every squeeze of the trigger his voice echoing loud above the din of combat. “FOR THE EMPEROR!!!” He pressed the switch in his left hand a sudden ripple filling the air as more then a dozen explosives went off around the perimeter directly into the face of the oncoming Eldar.

 

Chale and Lorcan had done a superb job of laying the ambush. Hundreds of darts flew outward from the explosions slamming into the front ranks of the Eldar. The enemy flew backwards landing in a bloodied heap nearly twenty dead at the hands of one trap before the Catachans surged from hiding.

 

Fire erupted from the Catachan lines as Donovan shouted orders driving the Eldar before them. Streams of Promethium spewed out as Bernon opened up with his heavy flamer. Donovan continued to fire as he moved to the edge of the jungle firing repeatedly into the Eldar ranks.. Suddenly the world surged beneath his feet as he was lifted upward and flung several meters away. He hit the ground hard rolling as he got to his knees shaking his head to clear it. Muffled words echoed in his ears as his men shouted down the line.

 

“Walkers pull back!!! Blessed Emperor what is that thing…..”

[AngelOfDeathXIII]

Keeps getting better!

[Valin Darkblade]

Darius stepped onto the broadside embarkment deck the sound of his footfalls muffled by the sounds of servitors prepping the Thunderhawk's for planetary assault. He held his helmet under his arms his eyes sweeping across the embarkment deck. Servitors moved around the embarkment deck loading missles and ammunition into the Thunderhawk's. He watched them go over final flight preparation ensuring the machine spirits were tended to. He saw Techmarine Antolis moving around the Thunderhawk's checking on the work of the Servitors.

 

They were glorious examples of the magnificence of the Imperium. They looked cumbersome upon the ground but in flight they were beasts. Loaded with enough fire power to level a Titan to molten slag few things could stand against them in aerial combat. Capable of atmospheric and void flight.

 

He turned his eyes from the Thunderhawk's to the gathered Marines standing prepared for combat. He stepped forward standing before the Marines. Kalin stood at the forefront of the forty gathered Marines prepared for the combat drop.

 

Darius knew the Marines were ready, he had visited every squad during the last warp jump to ensure everyone was prepared. He looked into the eyes of every Marine seeing the hard edged determination in every Marine ready for combat.

 

"Brother Kalin step forward." Kalin looked at Darius for a moment before stepping forward.

 

Darius held the banner in his hand presenting it to Kalin.

 

"For a thousand years this has passed down through the ranks. It was presented to me to carry when I ascended to the rank of Brother-Sergeant. I present it now to Brother-Sergeant Kalin. For the Honor of the Emperor and our Primarch!"

 

Kalin looked at Darius taking the banner. "Brother you do me an honor."

 

"You do us all an Honor Brother Kalin. For to long have you trained the Marines under your watch guarded them, helped them to grow as Brother Marines. Some are now Captains this is an honor long in coming to you."

 

Kalin bowed his knee before stepping back into the formation.

 

Darius raised his voice so all could hear. "Today we again leap into the mouth of hell and earn Glory for our Chapter. Bring death to our enemies for the Emperor!"

 

A roar erupted from the gathered Marines cheering for Kalin and Darius. The Marines filed past Darius and Kalin each taking their oaths of moment as they filed into the Thunderhawk's.

 

Darius turned as the embarkment deck shook the sound of heavy metal footfalls ringing clear over the sound of the servitors working. His eyes fell on two of the chapters mighty Dreadnoughts resplendent hulking constructs. Both were armed with mighty heavy bolters and close combat claws. Ancient Heroes of the Chapter were encased inside, warriors with out equal given the greatest honor the Chapter could bestow. TO allow them to continue fighting the enemies of the Emperor.

 

Parchment rolls and purity seals hung from each and sprawling metal work depicting years of the Chapters Glory. Darius bowed a knee kn reverence to both.

 

Captains Atlas, Gabriel I am honored to have you join us in this conflict. Captain Gabriel spoke the vox caster giving his voice a deep metallic ring to it.

 

"For the honor of the Chapter we serve. The enemies of mankind shall fall before us."

 

They both moved to board the Thunderhawks each moving to a separate Thunderhawk. Darius turned toward the Thunderhawk when he felt a powerful grip on his arm. He turned to look into the face of death itself. Despite his super human physiology he felt a shiver run down his spine.

 

The figure before him stood taller by a head partly due to the massive terminator armor that covered his body. His armor was blacker then even his devoid of all color. His head was covered in a large helmet shaped to resemble a bare human head. The eye lens were the color of dried blood with a few "tears" weeping from the corners.

 

Parchment scrolled in a mighty hand hung form the shoulders and the chest, prayers and litanies of hatred. A miniature of the imperial Aquila hung around his neck rubies depicting its eyes the metal an intricately carved gold hammered onto plastisteel. Purity seals were placed around the armor the parchment seeming to move of its own. Hanging from the figures hip was a mighty corzius, energy crackling at this edges of it. A simple but powerful symbol of the mans office.

 

"Lord Chaplin how may I serve you."

 

Darius's vox beeped on the secure channel. The voice coming across ancient and low.

 

"Brother Darius, I have your orders. We could not give them to you in the war room due to the nature of it. These orders come from the highest in our Chapter. For the safety and security of the chapter this must not be repeated."

 

A map overlay displayed over Darius's Visor feed showing an ancient temple.

 

"This temple is a closely guarded secret of the Chapter understand that. The Eldar are here to steal the secrets within. With them they can revive their craftworld. This can not happen. Your orders are clear, destroy all enemy within the vicinity of the temple and help clear the planet. Word has reached us that there are Imperial Guard Troopers on the planet. Your Thunderhawk's will deploy you and your men to the temple and then aid to relieve the Imperial Army. Know this if the Eldar gain access to the temple we are to bombard it."

 

Darius nodded his head as he looked over the map on his overlay. "We will succeed Brother Chaplin." The feed vanished as the Chaplain moved to leave the embarkment deck. "Pray you don't the Chapter depends on it."

 

Darius turned and boarded the Thunderhawk the rear hatch closing behind him sealing the Thunderhawk. He strapped in near the pilot as the Thunderhawk lurched lifting off and plunging into the void of space.

[Valin Darkblade]

"Combat drop in one minute." Came the warning across the vox system. Darius unstrapped standing up his voice crackling across the internal systems vox.

 

"Stand up strap in final drop check!" He adjusted the Jump pack as it settle onto his back watching the Marines in the Thunderhawk strap on their Jump Packs securing weapons as they filed into line for the final launch. The seal of the back hatch broke dropping the hatch parallel with the horizon. Darius watched the drop lights as the warning crackled in his helmet. "fifteen seconds to target." Darius slide his hands into the Lightning Claws hanging from his hips feeling the weapons seal to his armor the indicator coming on his display showing they were powered.

 

The light turned green, Darius with a roar ran forward leaping from the Thunderhawk diving out like an avenging angel. "For Corax and the Emperor!!" The roar resounded in his helmet as every Marine launched taking up the battle cry. He plummeted to the surface of the planet his weight accelerating him. Fifty meters from the ground he ignited the jump pack. The engines roared to life halting his swift decent, he swiveled his head watching the Thunderhawk's bank hard. The two mighty Dreadnought's struck the ground with the explosion of a small artillery round their heavy bolters erupting across the surface of the Eldar War walkers as they landed. He saw a salvo of missiles launch from one of the Thunderhawk's illuminating the Eldar grav tank in an earth shattering boom before peeling off. The Vox crackled in his ear as the flight leader spoke. "Good hunting Brother Sergeant, the Emperor protects.

 

Darius took in the battlefield in just moments, his eyes caught sight of the small force of Catachan's heavily pressed by the renewed assault of the Eldar. They had made a counting of themselves but with out relief would fall. His eyes took in the small group of Eldar working to still gain access to the temple the Eldar Altarch standing closely guarded. His stomach lurched for a moment before he impacted the ground.

 

A mighty figure monstrous in size was slowly standing in the center of the Eldar ranks. Wreathed in fire, dripping blood the creature lifted a mighty sword high in the air roaring a challenge filled with defiance.

 

"Spread out relieve the Imperial Guardsmen, suppressive fire provide a zone around the Catachan's and push the Eldar back. Kalin with me we have an avatar to bring down. In the Emperors name Raven Guard ATTACK!"

 

Without further hesitation Darius leapt into the air igniting the jump pack his lighting claws erupting in an electrically charged display as he came down in the midst of the Altarch and his guards......

[Valin Darkblade]

Donovan staggered to his feet as he felt an arm slide under his pulling him up. His ears rang something fierce but the world was muffled, spots danced around his vision as he shook his head trying to clear it. Slowly the world came back to life the sounds no longer muted as he took in the scene.

 

The Eldar had brought up Walkers but how they were hulking machines they should have clearly seen. Catachan's were falling back with discipline and order a continuous wall of fire providing cover as they fell back in pairs. He saw several from the second patrol vanish in a sudden wall of superheated plasma.

 

He heard the voice beside him screaming gesturing. Donovan let his eyes lift skyward as he tried to figure a way to get his men out of the fight. The Eldar had surprised them caught him off guard with the war machines. He saw the trails of vapor before the sonic boom struck his ears. Three individual plumes plummeted from the sky streaking toward their position.

 

A cheer tore from his throat echoing that of his men as the Thunderhawks became clear in their vision. Jet black as midnight Donovan could make out the large Ravens painted along the wings. He saw them level off skimming the tree line before he saw the first of the Astarte’s leap from the Thunderhawks. Angels of death disgorged from the belly of the beast they streaked to the ground on wings of flame.

 

Donovan shouted as the ground trembled with the first explosive landing of the mighty Dreadnoughts. "Regroup Rally to me. The day is ours the Emperor has seen to bless us and our enemies with the sign of his wrath and holy vengeance." He charged forward as he saw one of the Marines leap upward the armor and his physical makeup casting him into air with ease. The jetpack ignited at the start of his decent launching him forward into the heart of the Eldar.

[Valin Darkblade]

Darius landed in the midst of the Eldar Guardians his right foot swinging around to catch one in the chest as he landed sending it flying backwards its chest crushed from the might of a power armored foot. He chanted the holy mantras as he swung upwards with both arms the power of the ancient lightning claws meeting slight resistance as they tore into the bodies of two more of the Eldar warriors splitting them in four bloody pools at his feet. He felt a round ricochet off his left pauldron the warning flickering over his display. He whirled as he blocked an incoming weapon with his right arm taking the strike on the back of the claws. He punched out with his left arm the claws severing the neck of another charging from his flank.

 

Darius did not have to look as he felt the ground shiver beneath his feet telling him other Marines were close at hand. The melee swirled around him as he saw the Swooping Hawks leap skyward. A moment later they struck in the center of the melee, to his right he saw two Brother Marines falter gaping holes torn in their armor. He leapt forward slamming into the press of Eldar as the melee grew in intensity. Power weapons flashed around him, the Eldar were fast Darius missed a few grunting as they tore gouges into his power armor. He fell back a step as two of the Swooping Hawks came at him from both sides. He smiled beneath his helm as he brought his lightning claws together sending an impulse through his armor to increase power output to the claws. The claws were ancient crafted by a long since perished master smith but Darius had unlocked some of their secrets.

 

He brought the claws together as the power feed spiked with a thought he reversed the polarity in one claw. He thrust his arms forward as the charged ions in the gloves collided a charged explosion of energy leapt forward slamming into the closest Eldar sending him flying a few meters back. He whirled his thoughts correcting the changes as he caught the second Eldars falling power weapon. His claws linked together holding the weapon high he pushed against the Eldar forcing him backwards. Suddenly a chainsword ripped though the Eldars side ending his life in the grinding of deadly metallic teeth.

 

Darius nodded his head at the Marine at his side taking a moment to look over the battle field. Several Marines where down returned to the Emperors side, more Eldar were on the field then when he had made the leap from the Thunderhawk. He knew the main battle was close but the thought of a webway close entered his thoughts. His men could not hold if that were the case.

 

His eyes caught the Dreadnoughts caught up in melee with the enemy warmachines, several were smoking hulks but the two mighty machines were pressed from all sides. The Avatar loomed over even the mighty Dreadnoughts its blade crashing against the titanic grip of the mighty claws. Darius ducked a sweeping blow bringing his left claw up in an uppercut strike ending another Eldar.

 

Suddenly the Autarchh was before him his power weapon sweeping in to clash against Darius's right shoulder. Warnings flashed across the display as the blade bit deep into the ceramite. He brought a claw up catching the blade throwing it back. A smile creased his face as the vox caster amplified his voice over the din of combat.

 

"Let us end this Xenos and prove who the true warrior is."

[Valin Darkblade]

Donovan hit the ground hard taking a position on a small mound where the jungle met the clearing. He raised his rifle taking a shot at an Eldar, the round streaked through the air leaving a bright vapor trail as it struck the figure in the shoulder spinning it around and taking it off its feet. Not a kill shot but it would put the Xenos filth down for a moment.

 

Catachans spread out around Donovan taking a staggared defensive line as death began to rain from the skys. He was amazed at the precison of the Space Marines as they fell to the ground. Bolt pistols rang out, their shells striking targets with each pull of the trigger laying waste in a shower of gore. The Marines hit the ground and took to the offensive their mighty chainswords whirling to life as they hit the Eldar with a fury only the Space Marines could produce.

 

Individual battles broke out as the Marines hit the Eldar lines small pockets of resistence as the Eldar tried to hold their ground. Donovan saw the mighty Dreadnoughts out of the corner of his eye engaged with the mighty abomination the Eldar had spawned.

 

He shouted orders directing the fire of the men around him to cover the far left flank of the Marines, the volume of fire keeping the Eldar pinned as they started to slowly advance. He knew the Marines were hard pressed as more and more Eldar began to show on the battlefield.

 

Donovan continued to fire picking his targets carefully as he advanced forward seeking cover as he moved. He froze as he witnessed the Marine who could only be the commander engage the Autarch. The Marine shook off the mighty blow to his shoulder forcing the blade up and away from his body thrusting the Autarch backward.

 

He swung bringing a glistening claw around in a mid torso strike, the Autarch leapt back igniting his jetpack to avoide the strike before swooping in. Donovan watched the Marine hit the ground rolling under the swing of the Eldars power sword. A fraction to slow he could see the sparks fly from the jumppack as the sword connected. The Marine turned mid roll planting his feet to slow his movement before launching after the Autarch.

 

Donovan groaned as he saw the Autarch flip backwards in an acrobatic manouver no Marine could copy in mid air. The top of his armoured foot caught the Marine under the chin of his helmet as he launched at the Altrach sending him crashing down to the ground. He heard the amplified roar as the Marine took flight again this time his claws clashing with the power weapon of the Autarch.......

 

A teaser of whats to come. Comments welcome.

[Valin Darkblade]

Darius could see the warnings flash across the visor display as he locked his claws with the power weapon of the Autarch. His power levels were dropping quickly from the sustained flight and the exertion of an aerial combat. He had to end it quickly and get back on the ground. He shifted the lightning claw locking the Power weapon pulling it toward him as he drove his knee upward slamming it into the Autarch’s ribs.

 

He could feel the Eldar trying to pull back but the augmented strength provided by the power armor was to much. Darius could feel the armor under his blow begin to buckle. He twisted catching his other arm under the Autarch hurling him toward the ground. The Autarch hit the ground with an audible crunching, the wings of his own jet pack crackling with electricity as parts were shattered with the impact. The power sword went skating across the ground well out of the Xeno’s way.

 

Darius killed his own jump pack launching his body down onto the Autarch, his knee crashing into its chest. He could feel the bones crush under his knee as the armor beneath him began to buckle and collapse. Darius brought his right claw up to the Eldar’s throat a slight grin creasing his features beneath the helmet.

“Any last words filth?”

 

Darius adjusted the power feed to the lightning claw watching electricity begin to dance across the chest plate of the Eldar Autarch when he felt the searing pain lance through his ribs into his secondary heart. He rolled off the Autarch his ribs burning as the splinter shot dug into his chest shredding the secondary heart, he could feel it pierce the mult-lung before slowing. His breathing became labored as his body began to compensate trying to heal the gapping wound in his side. He stayed on his knee the effort to rise more then his body could take at the moment.

 

He watched as the Eldar rose slowly from the ground one hand clutching at its chest the other holding a smoking splinter pistol. How could he have been so stupid as to make a recruits mistake. Gloating over an enemy rather then killing him? The Eldar walked toward Darius leveling the pistol at his head, he swore he could hear the creature laughing at his mistake.

 

Darius clutched one arm to his chest the pain subsiding as his body took over and began to heal but he could still not rise. He raised his head staring into the eyes of the Eldar through his helmet. At least it would be a warriors death.