A Valorous Heart, a Dauntless Spirit.

[Aqui]

Well, now that I've been bitten by the Sisters bug (but have no way of being able to scratch it, what with there being no proper Codex and no plastic Minis ), I've decided to delve into the background of my DIY Adepta Sororitas Order, The Order of the Dauntless Spirit. I will get around to carrying on my other stuff, but those who know me, know that I tend to rotate stuff around to stop them from getting boring (and subsequently abandoning them completely). Be also warned, there will be the usual references to Sci-fi etc....see if you can guess them all

 

So, once again, here we go!

 

Byzantium was a world of wonder. An orb of natural beauty that was rare in the Imperium. Untouched, undisturbed. The vigilance of the Sister of the Order or the Valorous Heart made sure it was so. No stone was unturned in their quest to seek out those who would corrupt, and would be ever unrelenting in the face of the Horrors of the Warp.

 

A small Covent with no more than a few Hundred Sisters, their watchful eyes cast over the denizens of that world. It was a world known for it's trade in livestock. An irony, in the minds of some, that the Sheppard's of flocks are themselves watched.

 

The Convent itself was relatively small, the Order encouraging their number to go forth, taking the word of the Emperor with them to the furthest reaches of the planet. From the lowest Valleys, to the highest peaks.

 

Canoness, Lady Eliza Cho had risen with the dawn, like many, the routine of early mornings ground into her psyche at an early age. Having already made her morning dedication to both Saint Lucia and the Emperor of Mankind, she turned her attention to exercise regime of her new recruits. Fifty new recruits had arrived a season ago, and already most had attained enough competence to move to the next stage of training. It was true enough that the Schola Progenium had instilled discipline and fitness, but it wasn't enough. Not nearly enough. The training cadre had noticed her interest and knew that she would want them driven harder. One such trainer had caught her eye. The Canoness walked across the hall towards her. It was impossible to be discrete. Every recruit in the Covent stopped, gawping in awe at her Armour. A tall woman with Raven hair and bright Green eyes, standing at over 6 feet without her plate, she dominated the attention of everyone. The silence was almost unbearable, no one dared speak.

 

To attract the attention of the Canoness, was to court trouble. And someone had.

 

The trainer had taken the Canoness aside and was whispering animatedly. The tension was palpable by now. Still listening, to her subordinate, Cho turned and stared at the recruits, her eyes hunting for an individual. All trainees averted their eyes from her gaze.

 

Except one. That individual stared back with an uncaring look on her features, her brown eyes so dark it made them look like orbs of obsidian. Her hair, like all recruits was close cut, but hers unlike everyone else's was red, flame like and matched her temper. It did not bode well.

 

"Recruit Saffron Sera, front and centre."

 

Serra paused. Even she was not so wilful that she would disobey the Canoness, but for a moment...

 

"Front and Centre!"

 

Reluctantly, Sera stepped forward. Standing in front of the Canoness, she willed her body not to tremble. She almost succeeded.

 

"I have just been told of your tardiness. It is not the first time you have been found wanting. What say you?"

 

"I have nothing to say," Sera answered knowing full well that there wasn't. Five minutes late for morning exercise had no excuse, but she had a reason for it. Her contrary nature would not allow her to explain, even if she was given an opportunity to do so.

 

"So. As you have some issue with authority, it seems that I have little choice in punishing you. You will be put in solitary confinement for two weeks. When you are released you will report to me directly for further punishment." Cho studied her carefully. No reaction.

 

"You and you," she continued pointing at two other recruits. Ensure she reports to Solitary immediately, or you yourselves will join her!"

 

Hastily saluting the Canoness, the two helpless girls dragged Sera towards the punishment wing.

 

Sera offered no resistance.

 

 

The detention wing was located in the East tower. Overlooking a sheer cliff edge it was a visible deterrent against heresy. It was taller than the other wings, and was demoralising just to look at. The cold hard reality of Imperial justice. Thrown in a cell, by a Sororitas, Sera looked around the place she would call home for two weeks. Sighing, she knelt before a crudely made alter, the Double headed Eagle scratched into the stone wall, she began to pray.

 

At days end, Eliza Cho had taken to her chambers. A simple room, decorated only with a bed and desk, an alter to the immortal Emperor in the corner of the room. On the desk was a cogitator, basic but functional. Entering her authentication, she entered a request for information. The cogitator stated that it would take approximately a week for the information to be brought forth. Grimly, she wondered what to do with Saffron Sera.

 

A bright girl, one who had excelled in Imperial History, Dogma and in weapons training, but wilful and resentful of authority. The escort from the Schola Progenium had told her that she had always been that way, and indeed been the only student to have nearly been expelled on five separate occasions. Cho wondered about that. Either the Masters there were getting far too lenient, or there was a mitigating circumstance.

 

For Sera's sake, it had better be something exceptional.

 

Ten days later, the information Cho had requested had arrived. Reading, Cho had no doubt as to why Sera resented authority. Making her way to the detention wing, Cho hoped that it was still possible to get through to her.

 

 

Sera had knelt before the Altar for hours. Her legs had lost all feeling, but she didn't care. The screams, for Mercy and that of blasphemy from the other cells were still as unnerving as they had been when she first arrived. Praying helped blot them out. She was currently reciting a benediction, over one hundred and fifty verses long. Spoken properly, it would take over and hour to recite, and Saffron Sera was particular that it was done correctly.

 

So distracted by her devotional prayer that she hadn't noticed her cell door had opened ten minutes earlier. Coming to the end, Sera realised that she was not alone.

 

"I have never heard that prayer before," Cho said quietly. The prayer had stirred pangs of emotion, of piety. Whilst long winded, it had a quiet, forcefulness quality. Cho was impressed.

 

"Where does it come from?"

 

Sera tried to rise and stand to attention, but her legs were completely numb. Seeing her attempt, Cho gently helped the recruit up. Sera herself was shaking, still startled by Cho's appearance in the room.

 

"Be not afraid. I know what happened that caused you to be an Orphan and send you on your way to the Progenium. I merely ask, why do you persist in your waywardness?"

 

Sera had managed to get some feeling in her legs, and stood to as near to attention as she could. Staring straight ahead, she said nothing.

 

"Your parents were killed by a traitor, and you left for dead. As the heretic was in a position of authority, of trust. You, by extension of what he did now have a distrust of anyone with authority. Correct?"

 

Cho looked at Sera directly. Her face showed no emotion at all. Nothing, but one tear.

 

Cho sighed. Whilst the girl needed to shown that her behaviour was unacceptable, she could see so much potential in her. So much, especially after listening to the benediction. She hadn't even heard all of it, but knew it took a lot of dedication to he able to recite such a powerful prayer from memory. And from what the guards had told her, she had recited the prayer daily since she had been incarcerated.

 

"And the reason for your persistent tardiness is your devotion to reciting this prayer every morning. I'm not surprised at that.

 

"You still have 3 days left on your penance, but I feel that it will not be best spent here. Instead you will teach me this prayer. You will subsequently teach it to all members of this order so that all will benefit from it. In return, I will show you the way to exorcise the daemon that haunts you."

 

"How will you do that?" Sera spoke hoarsely, Cho realising that the reason Sera hadn't spoken, was because she couldn't.

 

"We are the Adepta Sororitas, girl. We can exorcise anything".

 

Next part soon C+C welcome!

[Armond]

I like it, good read!

[Aqui]

I like it, good read!

 

Thanks! ^_^ Always good to know someone is reading.

 

Speaking of which......

 

Part two:

 

Sera’s progress was slow over the next few years, but she had attended to her duties to Cho’s satisfaction. Summoned to Cho’s office along with four other trainees, they were stood to attention. Cho took a moment to study them all.

 

They had all been raised to the rank of Battle Sister, but were untested. Green. The call to war had been given, and Cho wanted to ensure that they were all prepared for the coming conflict.

 

“I take it you have been told of our latest mission?” A statement more than a question, as she knew full well they had. She wanted them to give her their impressions of what lay ahead.

 

“We are to journey to a Planet called Sydar,” replied Annabelle Chrysanthemum. A slender woman, who was a lot stronger than she looked. A pious ritual scar was borne upon her right cheek. Her dark skin and eyes made her stand out from her sisters.

 

“An uprising of the unholy ones that must be put down, with cleansing fire,” added Polly Sage, barely able to contain her joy.

An orphan from a Shrine World, her zeal in matters of Imperial Dogma made her an ideal choice to become an Adepta Sororitas. With her Blonde hair and her complexion flushed, she was the shortest of the group and stockier. She had shown great skill and strength using the Orders heavy weapons, her favourite unsurprisingly were flame based.

 

“We are to offer the Local PDF assistance in toppling this evil group. To offer up retribution to the Oath breakers on that World,” spoke Agatha Minori. Cho was impressed. In all of the time Minori had been at the Convent, she had barely spoken, merely content to complete whatever tasks given her. Another who had facial markings, hers being that of a sword branded to her cheek. A long scar starting on the forehead crossing over her right eye made her look as if she was perpetually squinting. Some of her brown hair was missing due to another scar. No one knew how she had gotten it. No one had asked either.

 

The final member of the group remained silent. Aethelfleda du Pont was unable to speak at all. Her throat was a ruin, torn out by a ganger from the Hive World she had been taken from. Her eyes revealed much brutality in her past. Despite this, she had a generous heart and was one of the best strategists amongst the trainees. Cho motioned to her encouragingly, watching du Pont’s hands.

 

“Yes, we are to ensure that the foe does not escape that world, Aethelfleda.” Cho continued. “However, we haven’t been given much information on enemy disposition, cursed all the luck. I have been assured that we will be given better data in transit.”

 

Cho paused, deliberately waiting for the obvious question.

 

“Why have you summoned us, Lady?” Sera asked finally.

 

“Because of all of the recently promoted Sisters, you five have all shown promise. I have decided that when we arrive that you shall accompany me on the battlefield. I shall treat you as if you are my most trusted advisors. You will learn from your senior Sisters. I know that you are all combat ready, but I have faith in you all to excel. To become future leaders of this Order. Do not disappoint me.”

 

The five were stunned by this statement. To be on the battlefield with the Canoness was an awe inspiring prospect in itself. But to be in her personal retinue. That was something none of the five had ever considered.

 

“Make haste and prepare to leave,” Cho advised them. “You will be reporting to me directly from now on. Your training cadre has already been told. You will be waiting for me in the main hanger in one hour. Go.”

 

The five saluted the Canoness, and filed out smartly. The minds of the trainees were swimming with the trust placed in them. Watching them go, Cho caught the eye of Sera and nodded. Sera made the sign of the Aquila, words upon her lips.

 

“I know, Sera. I have faith in you. Go on, otherwise you’ll be tardy again,” a slight smile on the Canoness’ face.

 

Sera ran out of the room, determined to prove her worth.

 

++Translation into Warp Space, in five minutes. All Sororitas prepare++

Saffron Sera hated Warp flight. In her life she experienced it twice before. From her home world to the Schola Progenium and then on to her Order. The thought of travelling through the very place where their most hated foe lay made her skin crawl. But needs must, she was told. If the Ship she was travelling on traversed real space, it would have taken her great grand children most of their life to reach her destination. Like all of her other sisters, she was given some leave to explore the ship, but aside from when the Canoness and other senior members of the Order had tasks for her to do, she spent her remaining hours within the ships Sanctum praying. Usually, prayer, helped calm her mind, but the uneasy feeling she felt was never truly abated. It was merely cast to the back of her mind.

 

The squad she now belonged to like all others were given names, usually after a Saint or revered Sister in the order. Dubbed squad Lucia after the creator of the Order, Sera and her fellow Sisters had much expected of them. The Canoness had named the squad herself. Unusually, however, there was no clear squad leader. In a rare occasion where all five were together outside their duties, they had pondered the reason.

 

“I think it’s to establish who is most suitable of us,” Annabelle stated.

 

“Possibly. I do feel that it’s not important at the moment. Personal glory is a sin, and a despicable one at that,” Polly added.

 

Annabelle’s statement made her uneasy. Whilst it was only right that the best of them should lead the squad, she had warned, at length that the only glory that should be won, is for Him on Terra. Nothing else mattered in her mind.

 

“Agreed.” Agatha said quietly. Aethelfleda nodded her agreement. Neither of them had particularly been concerned about it, but Annabelle had brought it up on more than one occasion...

 

“What is this world like?” Polly asked trying to change the conversation.

 

“Does it matter?” Annabelle replied tersely. “All we need to know is that part of the population has turned from the Emperor. Anything else is moot.”

 

“I merely asked,” Polly continued slightly irked, “ so that we can prepare ourselves. Preparation is key. Is it a developed world? A Hive? Such information could prove valuable when we are planet bound.”

 

“It’s a Shrine World. A small one compared to others, but many journey there on pilgrimages to see the local Saint... A Saint known as Eiko.”

 

Polly had fallen silent. Being a native to a Shrine World herself, she was saddened by the fall of another.

 

“Polly. Do not worry, we are going to retake that world. For the Emperor.”

 

“For the Emperor!” the others repeated.

 

 

Syndar floated eerily, in a shade of green on the Holviewer. It was a small world, orbited by two moons. It was marked by two continents, the large of the two covering most of the surface.

 

“We have been given more information regarding our mission,” said Seraphim Miranda. “It would appear that the forces of Chaos have a substantial fleet at their disposal. Most of it is spread across the nearby region of space. We have been told that we are to accompany two Imperial Guard regiments and three Companies of a Space Marine Chapter known as the Amber Dragons. Whilst it would seem excessive to use three companies they were nearby and were the first to offer their assistance.”

 

“I have fought with them before,” Canoness Cho said studying the display. “They are a very honourable Chapter.”

 

“Indeed, Lady. The plan is to have the Astartes land first via Drop pod, to establish a beach head at the main port in the larger continent. Our Order and the Imperial Guard will follow. One regiment will stay to defend that beachhead and prevent anybody from leaving the planet. Our mission will be to accompany the other Guard regiment and retake the Chapel of Saint Eiko. It would seem that our enemies have desecrated it in vile offering to their Gods. We are charged with cleansing it and reconsecration.”

 

“A noble goal,” murmured Sera quietly.

 

Cho, hearing her speak, smiled slightly.

 

“Sister Sera. I want you and your squad to devise a plan to accomplish our mission. We have four days of Warp travel left. The rest of the journey will be done in real space, as there is a lot of disturbance in that area. Whatever vile sorcery the foe is conjuring, it is preventing Imperial forces from a direct translation. Meeting adjourned.”

 

Dismissed from the command room, squad Lucia filed out to plan the assault. Each member knowing that a mistake could cost them everything.

 

 

 

Bit short, but I plod ever onwards :lol:

 

Also, as per usual, I have added a few in jokes in the story. See if you can spot them/work them out ;)

 

C+C welcome ^_^

 

EDIT: Changes made to story to reflect comments further in the Topic ^_^

Edited June 13, 2012 by Aquilanus

[I-Seek-Knowledge]

Thus far I'm enjoying the story. A few critiques I noticed.

First: I think you may have a typo with the number of chapters, I assume you meant to say companies.

Second: Why three companies? Seems excessive for a 'small' shrine world rebellion, although i doubt any of the imperial commanders would protest having that many space marines fighting.

Third: I highly suggest revising the initial battle plan as it doesn't make sense in context. Adeptus Astartes deploy by orbital drop strikes and are the most well suited fighting force in the Imperium to establish a Beachhead. In this you have the guard performing this duty, which although it can be done, it would be more appropriate for the space marines to take the vanguard. The rest of the battleplan is sound and its purpose makes me the reader feel comfortable within my hammer lore bubble.

Four: In addition to the above, how about the Sororitas follow up the Astartes beach head landing, as it would help witht he character development of 'green' sisters engaging in their first taste of battle. Since the enemy army will be routed the sororitas supporting the battle brothers in the sweeping advance would be a great way to baptise squad Lucia.

 

I really did appreciate the small humor sprinkled in. It adds to the world you are creating and makes the character sound real. Keep it up.

Edited June 13, 2012 by I-Seek-Knowledge

[Aqui]

Thus far I'm enjoying the story. A few critiques I noticed.

First: I think you may have a typo with the number of chapters, I assume you meant to say companies.

 

Yes, it's supposed to be Companies.

Second: Why three companies? Seems excessive for a 'small' shrine world rebellion, although i doubt any of the imperial commanders would protest having that many space marines fighting.

 

Although it's a small world (relatively speaking in the Imperium. I always imagined that a lot of the Planets to be bigger than say Earth/Terra.) it's a large rebellion. In the edit, I'll make this more clear.

Third: I highly suggest revising the initial battle plan as it doesn't make sense in context. Adeptus Astartes deploy by orbital drop strikes and are the most well suited fighting force in the Imperium to establish a Beachhead. In this you have the guard performing this duty, which although it can be done, it would be more appropriate for the space marines to take the vanguard. The rest of the battleplan is sound and its purpose makes me the reader feel comfortable within my hammer lore bubble.

 

You're quite right that Astartes are the best for that kind of thing. I wasn't sure what I was thinking when I typed it. I did want the Amber Dragons to be elsewhere in the conflict, leaving the Sororitas faced with dealing with "Mortal" men. I suppose I could have the 'Dragons establish the beach head and then move on leaving the IG to keep it. Best of both worlds that way...

 

Four: In addition to the above, how about the Sororitas follow up the Astartes beach head landing, as it would help with the character development of 'green' sisters engaging in their first taste of battle. Since the enemy army will be routed the sororitas supporting the battle brothers in the sweeping advance would be a great way to baptise squad Lucia.

 

I really did appreciate the small humor sprinkled in. It adds to the world you are creating and makes the character sound real. Keep it up.

 

Another good point. I wasn't going to have the Sisters get thrown in at the deep end, despite the fact that War is a very great leveller, and favours no one.

 

Am glad you're liking it so far. I'll be back later to take the points raised into account.

 

Thanks ;)

 

Edit:

 

Changes made.

Edited June 13, 2012 by Aquilanus

[Aqui]

Part 3:

 

The Chapel was massive. Arched ceilings of marble and alabaster over two stories high, the details of frescos picked out in such clarity. They showed the Emperor of Mankind fighting the Xenos, putting all before him to flight. In the distance a statue of the saviour of Terra, the founder of the Imperium stood in all his glory, golden in aspect, the light shading him in benevolent piety. The ship was able to carry hundreds of warriors, and thus needed a place of worship suitable to offer up prayers before battle, and to routinely maintain proper religious observance.

 

This was one such occasion. The Imperial Guard was stood in its entirety, many feeling awkward in such a place. Whilst loyal to both the Emperor and the Imperium, the home world of these particular regiments were used to smaller, more intimate ways of benediction out in the open sky. Near the front of the Chapel, the Order of the Valorous Heart led the congregation, singing rousing hymns, and read passages from the Lectitio Divinitatus.

 

“And lo, the Emperor of Mankind stands before the precipice of darkness, ever vigilant , protecting us from evil. So it is

written, so shall it be. Ave Imperator!”

 

“Ave Imperator!”

 

The Canoness, Lady Eliza Cho, stepped forward to address the assembly. She was wearing full armour, looking every bit the pious warrior she was.

 

“Sisters. Brothers. We are gathered in this place on our journey to Syndar, united with one purpose. To rid that world of sin! To cleanse that world of evil. It has been marred by our enemies’ footsteps for too long! We will wash that world with the blood of the fallen, and reconsecrate it with our faith. We will succeed! We will be victorious!” Raising her sword to punctuate her last sentence, she lead her Order from the Chapel, the roars of approval and the cheers from the congregation shaking the walls.

 

Ten paces behind her, squad Lucia, followed suit, both pride and nerves shaking their very being.

 

Subsector four, three light years from Planet Syndar, Segmentum Pacificus

 

The Emperor’s light, a small escort ship was making its final leg of its patrol of the sector. Because of enemy ships, it had taken the best part of five weeks to complete a tour that would normally take two. The renegades had taken control of most of the space lanes to the Pyndar system of which Syndar was at its hub. There was only one way into the planetary system. A narrow region of space, it was obviously a trap.

 

Thinking about this made Captain Madden angry. It was one thing to catch an enemy unwary, but to deliberately bait them with something so blatant? It showed that they were sure of their victory, that they were protected by their foul deities.

Looking at the screen, he could see their disposition. Approximately thirty ships, and that was only the ones they knew about, scoured the area, ready to prey on those who try to make their way in. Madden’s nerves were shot. He had been ordered to scout the region, to monitor the enemies movements and to pass that information on and he had done so diligently. But the lack of action was building up, both in him and his crew. It gnawed at their souls, for The Emperor’s Light was used to battle, despite its small size and armament. The Captain instinctively felt better in a combat situation.

 

On the bridge, he had taken a double shift to try to ease his mind. He hadn’t slept properly in weeks, and this told on his face. Usually genial, and quietly spoken he commanded much respect amongst his crew. His calm demeanour was replaced with a weary and snappy angst. It hadn’t helped that parts of his ship was still being repaired in transit from the last conflict it was engaged in. Reading Holoviewers at his station, he desperately tried to fight the choking bile rising in his throat.

 

“Captain, we have unidentified ships retranslating into real space. Bearing 901, mark 8.4.”

 

“I see them helm. Hailing?”

 

“They are currently too far out to be able to use standard Vox. They will be within range in thirty seconds.”

 

Madden cursed his luck. One of the systems damaged was the ship Ident receiver. It was standard practice for ships to broadcast their unique ident to others to avoid being mistaken for the enemy. It would have been a minor repair, but there were higher priorities and it was a lot further down the list of repairs.

 

“Helm?”

 

“Still nothing sir.”

 

Madden was torn. Fight or flee? He was told that Imperial reinforcements would be arriving weeks away. It was just his cursed luck to be alone and have a small fleet of hostiles heading this way.

 

“Helm, turn us around. Prime weapons. We will take this scum with us.”

 

“Aye, Captain”.

 

The ship turned, slowly, as it was not very adept at turning in such a small arc. The space between it and the oncoming ships closed, and there was still no way of identifying them.

 

“Sir, we have a transmission. Faint, but I can broadcast.”

 

“Ignore it. I have no wish to speak to Heretics.”

 

“But, sir!”

 

“I said IGNORE!”

 

“The Helmsman gulped and struck up his courage. The Captain had now turned his attention to weapons deployment. There was still no Ident, but there was something familiar about the way the lead ship was moving. It was listing to the left, but there was no damage that could be seen. Now right. The ship was coming to a full stop, with its port side exposed. What were the Heretics thinking? The ships were close enough to be able to see on screen. Leaning forward to see, he could just make out......

 

“Sir!”

 

“What now Helm? If you utter another word about the hail, I shall have you shot for insubordination!”

 

“But, Sir! It’s an Imperial ship!” stepping aside for the Captain to see, he pointed to the Aquilla on the hull of the ship.

 

“They have been trying to show us their insignia!” continued the helmsman, “It’s not just an Imperial ship. It’s Adeptus Astartes!”

 

The Captain visibly sagged. He’d nearly fired upon a friendly ship, risked all of his crew. He knew what he had to do.

 

“Lieutenant. I am relieving myself of command. You will allow our erstwhile allies aboard those ships every courtesy. “

 

“You stand relieved, sir...but won’t you reconsider?”

 

The Captain paused. “No, lad. Whatever happens in the coming weeks, this ship is under your command. Command her well.”

 

The Captain left the bridge heading for his quarters.

 

An hour later, The Emperor’s Light received two shuttles from the group of ships. In the shuttle bay, the Lieutenant stood to attention. He was still pondering what had happened on the Bridge and whilst he was used to command, he was still missing the presence of the Captain.

 

Both shuttles disgorged their occupants. The first entourage was breath taking. In all of his forty years standard, he had never seen an Astartes. The leader was a giant, even compared to his fellows. He was armoured in Tactical Dreadnought Armour that was hued in a dull orange. It seemed to smoulder as if aflame. Edged in white with unfamiliar markings, it was truly a sight to behold. It took some moments before he realised that the giant was addressing him.

 

“I am Captain Ambustio, of the Amber Dragons Chapter. Well met, Captain.”

 

The Lieutenant gulped. “I..I’m not the Captain. I am Lieutenant Asper. The Captain has been relieved.”

 

“I see. And for what reason?”

 

The Lieutenant explained the circumstances whilst the giant listened thoughtfully.

 

“This Captain should be punished!” declared another, an Imperial guardsman.

 

“I will take your opinion into consideration, Colonel Haasp. I will speak to him myself.”

 

“But, Imperial Law states quite clearly...!”

 

Ambustio stared at him intently. “Do not question my judgement in this matter,” he said mildly, his eyes burning a dark Scarlett, a prominent feature amongst his kind. “If I deem punishment to be necessary, I will undertake it myself.”

 

The Colonel, whilst clearly unhappy, let the matter drop. Turning back to the Lieutenant, Ambustio continued.

 

“Your men look as if they are at breaking point, Lieutenant Asper. Why is this so?”

 

“I...”

 

“Speak freely Lieutenant.”

 

Asper paused. He fervently wished to speak of the ill advised orders they were given. The fact that they have not been given leave in over a year, and that key elements of their ship was damaged, leaving them vulnerable to attack, the communication and Ident systems being only the least of them. The words however would not come.

 

Ambustio however could see what was on his mind. His face was etched with worry, fatigue and concern. It was not the face of a man who neglected his duties.

 

“I have amongst my staff, those whom are versed in repair, Lieutenant. They are at your disposal.”

 

The Lieutenant tried to utter a reply able to convey his thanks, but settled on a smart salute, marched with his officers towards the bay exit.

 

“It would seem that we have more than a planet to save, Lady Canoness. The souls of every man and woman on this ship are at their lowest ebb.”

 

“Aye, Captain. It would be prudent, that, before we save the souls of Syndar, we should start here....”

 

“My Lady?”

 

Canoness Cho turned, to squad Lucia. Saffron Sera had stepped forward from the group.

 

“Speak, Sister.”

 

Bowing to Captain Ambustio, Sera continued. “As it will be some time before we arrive at Syndar, my Sisters and I would like to offer our support in raising morale aboard this ship.

 

Cho stifled a smile, Sera had indeed come a long way from her bitterness whilst training. She had become a devoted Sister of the Order. Perhaps this would be beneficial to all.

 

“If our Brother has no objections...?”

 

“I have none,” said the giant smiling. “Go forth and spread the Word, Sisters.”

 

Bowing, Squad Lucia departed.

 

Morale on the ship had never been so low. Those amongst the Order who knew the art of healing were hard pressed in keeping the flow of injured personnel in check. In the ship’s cargo hold, prayer meetings were held because the deck the Chapel was housed no longer existed. A large gaping hole where it, and thirty crew members were lost was evidence that this ship should not have been left out in space for so long. The Sector had ships enough to have allowed this one to return to a safe harbour for repairs and to help stricken crew men. Why it was not allowed to do so, was mystifying.

 

Or was it?

 

Captain Ambustio had found the Captain in his room, almost comatose. Empty bottles littered the room. Judging from the look of them, they had been there for some time. The small room smelled of stale sweat, alcohol and dry air, but no narcotics.

 

Looking down at the prone form, he could see a puncture mark in the man’s neck. Stooping to squeeze the wound slightly, he could see some discolouration. Poison and self administered, but it wasn’t too late. Voxing his Apothecary, he lifted the Captain easily and made his way to the surgical bay.

 

Battle Sister Sera looked around. It was a truly sorry sight. There was extensive damage everywhere she looked, some critical systems repaired using cannibalised parts. In the Reclusium, the altar had been smashed, jolted from its position by titanic impacts from enemy weapons. Sisters Annabelle and Polly were trying to salvage what was left of a statue of the Emperor. It had also fallen from its dais. Made from alabaster, there were significant marks across the chest and a large chunk had been smashed from its head. Sera was holding a sermon book. It was old, no ancient. Bound in a dull red leather, each of the pages was hand written in black ink. The first letter of Each paragraph embossed in gold. The spine was partly broken, but was still readable. It was a strong possibility that someone skilled could salvage it.

 

In the corner an old man was sweeping the floor, vast swathes of dust already collected together. A servitor, a man-thing made from arcane science was busy sucking the debris through a tube built into its arm. It’s face lolling like a simpleton.

 

Sera hated the creature, but knew that it was what it was. A servant of Mankind. The man looked at her thoughtfully.

 

“You have a question?” asked Sera.

 

“Not a question, no,” he replied, “I was merely curious.”

 

“About?”

 

“You look at this servitor as if it was the face of the enemy itself. Why?”

 

Sera paused. The thing disgusted her intensely.

 

“I feel that such creatures should not exist.”

 

“Why do you feel that way?”

 

“Servitors are constructed from people. Usually those who have sinned.”

 

“I see. So you see this as a bad thing?”

 

“How could I not!” snarled Sera abruptly, “They have strayed from the Emperor’s light.”

 

The old man smiled. He could see the irony of that remark was lost to her, the ship bearing the same name.

 

“I see. Did it not occur to you that these creatures are serving a penance? To redeem their former souls?”

 

Pausing again, Sera was unsure if this old man was merely teasing her, or babbling Heresy. She told him as much.

 

“I would not do such a thing. But consider this. The Emperor of Mankind is ultimately forgiving. All who have transgressed

are still not beyond saving. But becoming such a thing, a menial, a mindless automata, they are given a chance for redemption. They still serve, even in such a mundane fashion.”

 

Sera was unconvinced. Who was she to doubt the Emperor? All she knew was that these...things made her skin crawl.

 

“Do you wish anything else of us?”

 

“My Child, your presence aboard this ship is a gift enough. Please leave this to us. There are those who need your help. Do not deny it to them.”

 

Gathering the others, Sera departed, the old man’s words echoing in her mind.

[I-Seek-Knowledge]

Your skill in narrative short stories is well founded.

I as the reader felt the weariness of the crew and tense situation on board the vessel.

You craft the setting well, and handled the arrival and description of Astartes with a good deal of firm impact to the story.

I noticed the changes in the previous post, and now it flows very well.

Bravo on the that last dialogue piece, I like how her views of the faith are brought into question if ever so slightly, but of course not in any heretical way.

A more humble understanding of the "Emperors Light".

I look forward to seeing Sera develop.

Edited June 13, 2012 by I-Seek-Knowledge

[Dosjetka]

I love it. It's as simple as that.

 

Ludovic

[Aqui]

Thank you both. I'm quite pleased about that. Whilst I still have a long way to go until I'm at a level I'm satisfied at, I'm glad I am improving.

 

Part 4 is waiting below, and whilst it's fairly small, I figured it's a good place to get to (as it were), before I start on the real "meat" of the story - that of retaking Syndar.

 

Part 4:

 

Captain Ambustio had remained within the Apothecarion aboard The Emperor’s Light. Having spoken to the staff, it was apparent that even without the poison the ship’s Captain had administered, he would still be at death’s door. His body was ravaged by disease, his heart weakened by alcohol abuse. Entering the intensive care unit, he could see the man lying in a small cot, wires and tubes attached to his body. Captain Madden, was conscious. Barely. His eyes lolled as the stupefying drugs took effect, reducing the pain he felt. He tried to sit up, but Ambustio motioned to stay still.

 

 

“I have failed.” Madden lamented, tears welling in his eyes.

 

“Have you?” Ambustio asked. “Tell me then why you feel that way?”

 

“I nearly had this ship fire upon yours! I ignored my helmsman, and allowed this ship to fall to pieces, little by little this last year. A fate worse than death. I so fervently wished to meet a foe, to give this ship the ending it deserves. It is not of enough significance to be repaired properly, so to order it into battle, and be destroyed, cleanly, not to have it languishing in a half life as it does now would have been a fitting end.”

 

The bitterness of the man’s words saddened Ambustio deeply, but he could understand his frustration.

 

“Why was this ship never ordered back for shore leave rotation?” he asked, having a suspicion as to why.

 

“A lot of the crew aboard this ship are from Syndar, myself included. We were not told outright, but I knew that we were considered untrustworthy, hence our orders to remain patrolling the area. As far as the Administratum was concerned it was a neat solution. If we were traitor, we’d have turned tail and joined the rebellion there. If we were loyal, we would have stayed and did our duty. In either case, we were hung out to dry...”

 

Ambustio could see the anger within the man, choking him, and all the while was impotent to do anything about it.

 

“Captain, if I may have a word...”

 

 

 

The planet Syndar loomed ever closer, and despite running through every idea imaginable, there was not a way to reach it without considerable casualties.

 

It had been argued that the force should wait until the second wave of troops and heavy armour arrived and make a push through the barricade. It was also argued that Syndar was forever lost and should be made an example of through way of Exterminatus. Many within the Imperial Guard contingent were vocal about the second idea, wary that they would be cut to ribbons in any ground assault. They were put in their place by Ambustio, with nothing more than a stare. His eyes burning deep red, a mark of his Chapters’ heritage, that of the Salamanders Chapter. His visage may have been different, even hostile looking, belying a kind spirit, but was a reminder that he was an Astarte, and not to be crossed.

 

“We will proceed as planned,” he stated simply. “We cannot afford to dally any further. I have taken...measures to ensure that we are able to make head way to the planet within the next twenty four hours.”

 

“Impossible!” Colonel Haasp snarled, rising from his seat. “Have you read the scans of the area? There are dozens of ships! We’d be cut to shreds before we got within system, much less planet side.

 

“So, this is the arrogance of an Astarte! A would be God who would shrug off anything the foe can throw at him! I am but a mere mortal, I serve the Emperor in all things, but if you think that I am leading my troops into that....”

 

Saffron Sera stepped forward and slammed her fist into his face. A rain of scarlet as Haasp's head jerked back. On the floor he turned to his attacker, shock and anger in equal evidence on his face.

 

“Coward!” she hissed, “The Emperor protects!”

 

“Sera, stand down!” Lady Cho ordered. Looking down to meet the Colonel’s gaze, she said simply.

 

“We will follow the Emperor’s light.” Relishing the irony of those words, “It will shine a path to our objective, cleansing all taint before us. Observe.” Pointing to a large view screen, they all watched.

 

 

Aboard his bridge, Captain Madden sighed painfully as he adjusted his position in his chair. He thought the Space Marine was going to court martial him for gross misconduct, but he was treated with kindness he hadn’t experienced for a long time. The giant instinctively understood what had driven him to despair, and knew what would help him redeem himself.

 

The co-ordinates were set, for one of the moons orbiting Syndar. The Astartes’ Librarian had noted that the main source of the psychic turbulence was situated there.

 

Turning to the helm, the young woman who had lost a leg below the knee, her blood poisoned by Gangrene, looked back at him, a small smile on her broken lips.

 

“Helm, Ahead full. When we are near our objective, alert all stations to brace for impact.”

 

“Ahead full, aye.”

 

The ship was manned by a skeleton crew of those crew members who were dying. Those approached had all joined on in a heartbeat. One last push. One last chance to serve.

 

 

One chance to show the heretics that The Emperor’s Light is Eternal.

 

 

 

 

On the screen, The Emperor’s Light was taking heavy damage by the ships patrolling that area. Even with the repairs made to the Shields, and the enhancements to the engine made by the Amber Dragons’ Master of the Forge, it was evident that it was being pulverised. It was close to the moon, almost within orbit, but it didn’t look as if it would reach its target.

 

Madden was desperately trying to get up off the floor. The last barrage was a direct hit to the underbelly of the ship, and the air was escaping in vast amounts. Most of the bulk heads had failed. Assuming the ship didn’t disintegrate, the remaining crew would suffocate. A warning light on the console next to him told him that the engine core was now at critical. The improvements had increased the vessels' speed enormously, but it meant that the risk of core exposure and detonation was very high.

 

And so it was.

 

They had scant minutes left, their target still too far away. Stifling a scream of rage, he looked at the screen. There was still a chance.

 

“Helm, change heading to these co-ordinates.”

 

The helm looked at the figures on her console. It took her a moment to realise what they meant.

 

Looking into his eyes, she smiled again. “The Emperor protects, Captain.”

 

“Aye, he does. That he does.

 

”All hands. Prepare for ramming speed!"

 

 

 

Aboard the Astartes’ ship, The Dragons’ bite, the assembly of Marine, Guard and Battle Sister, watched as the Emperor’s Light accelerated into one of the larger Traitor ships.

 

“Our gambit is lost!” Haasp cried angrily. “The fool has wasted our only chance of pulling this assault off!”

 

“Has he?” replied Ambustio. “I suggest you continue watching.”

 

The smaller ship had hit the other at the top. Void shields crackled and failed, as the generator it had hit was smashed. The ship, still accelerating had forced the larger ship to spin, slowly at first, but the momentum of the suicide run at full speed, and the greater effects of the Moons’ gravity well had done enough. The larger ship fell surface bound, the smaller ship tangled in debris, like a Remora to a Shark.

 

After a few more moments, seemingly stretching forever, a massive explosion, one felt as far away as the Dragons’ Bite punctuated the end of the Warp squalls and a way to get closer to Syndar.

 

One problem had been solved. The next would be harder still.

 

 

So, that ends that part of the story. The next part will be as I say, the retaking of Syndar. I'm just about to start it now. I won't make any guarantees as to when I'll have it ready, but I hope to get the next part done in the next day or so....

Edited June 18, 2012 by Aquilanus

[Dosjetka]

I really do like it. The heroic end of the small crew and ship is a nice touch in my mind :P

 

Ludovic

[Aqui]

This part marks the real challenge for me. Describing a combat situation. In other stories, it's been a hit and miss experience for me, but I feel that I'm getting there.

 

Part 5:

 

The squadron of Valkyrie assault carriers disgorged their contents at the landing stage of the Primary target – the Syndarian Space port. The Amber Dragons had already landed, their drop pods in evidence in the distance, and were waiting for their Imperial Guard comrades to relieve them of guarding the site. They will soon be on their way, heading south towards the Hive, unimaginatively called “the Hive” by locals. Their objective was to thwart any attempt to move heavy weapons built in the Hives’ Manufactories and thus having weapons aimed at their backs. It was a job that suited them better than the less armoured Guard. Fighting in enclosed spaces needed better protection, and Astartes armour was the best there was.

No, the Guard, resigned to their fate as a meat shield in the past, were wary and suspicious of their new role of watch dogs of the Space port.

 

Colonel Haasp was noticeably reticent and had not argued when he was told that his regiment would stay at the Port to ensure it does not get retaken. He was still sporting a black eye from the punch that Sera had thrown at him.

 

“Colonel Haasp. You are of course aware of the importance of this Space Port. You will guard it to the last man.” Stated Captain Ambustio. It was not something that needed to be said, but Ambustio had become rather irked by the Colonel’s attitude. A reminder of his duty was in order.

 

The Colonel’s face was ashen, but he merely saluted, and without another word led his command cadre off to oversee troop dispositions.

 

“I would rather not have left him here, Lady Canoness, but I feel it more prudent that you have allies you can rely on beside you on your way to Syndar City.” He continued.

 

“I thank you for your thoughtfulness in this matter, Brother Captain,” Canoness Cho replied. She turned to another Imperial Guardsman Colonel, a Colonel Vype. A barrel chested man of few words, he was grey haired, cut short with a augmetic eye. He was known to be a sound commander and far more preferable for the task ahead.

 

“My men and I stand ready, Lady,” he stated. “We are at your disposal.”

 

“Good. We are ready to leave. Brother Captain. May the Emperor guide you.”

 

“The Emperor protects,” slamming his fist to his chest, Captain Ambustio took his leave.

 

The cavalcade trailed off further than the eye could see. The Orders’ Immolators and Exorcist tanks spread equally down the line amongst the Leman Russ tanks of the guard. The Rhino carrying the Canoness and squad Lucia was at the lead.

 

“Vox channels are clear and stable,” reported Polly.

 

“Standard combat code for all further communications,” added Annabelle.

 

“Good. So, what are your first impressions of this world?”

 

The squad paused, collecting their thoughts. The world was mountainous, vast areas of land sculpted by the Adeptus Mechanicus’ terraforming machines. It had taken nearly thirty years to flatten as much as they had, and the world was still covered by ranges that ran for hundreds of miles.

 

The group turned to Aethelfleda. Adept at tactics as she was, she couldn’t speak, due to having her throat torn out many years ago. It didn’t stop her from being one of the best the Order had to offer. Watching her hands, she told them her thoughts.

 

The city is open plan, broad avenues that will favour heavy armour. The buildings are tall and over look the main through way into the city, so snipers will be in force there. The Citadel at the centre will be difficult to get into. Despite being a centre of the Imperial Cult, it doubles up as a emergency shelter in case of invasion and thereby the walls are very thick. Approximately, five to ten metres thick. The City is also defended by orbital lasers which are further out at the edge of the city. Whilst they have been bombarded extensively, not all of them have been destroyed. We must bear in mind that any reinforcements will have to travel in as we have unless they can be taken out. That will make things harder, especially if we are caught up in close quarter fighting. In an open space like that we will be easy targets.

 

A priority should be to secure the more strategic buildings as we enter, so that Imperial Guard fire teams can watch our backs and take out enemy sniping positions.

 

Cho nodded, having come to a similar conclusion.

 

“Of course, that’s not taking into account that we have to destroy the main gates to get inside the City. I’ve heard that they have been heavily fortified.” Annabelle added.

 

“They have,” replied Cho, “But it was a sloppy job. From aerial recon, it has been confirmed that there are Autocannons on pintel mounts and heavy Las Cannons, but the outpost has been made in a rush. If we send the Leman Russ tanks in first, we should be able to gain access relatively quickly.”

 

“The Colonel has a Demolisher and Conqueror variant in his arsenal, Lady.” Polly noted. “They would be the best to attack the gates with.”

 

“Contact the Colonel and if he hasn’t already, tell him to move them up the line.”

 

Colonel Vype had indeed moved the two tanks further forward. He had taken control of the Conqueror himself. Drawing alongside the Sisters’ Rhino, he voxed his intentions across.

 

“I will take the Conqueror and the Demolisher ahead with two regular Russ tanks. Be ready to move in, as I doubt there will be time to send a signal to you.”

 

“Why would that be?”

 

“I’ve been in similar situations, Lady.” Vype answered. “I would be surprised if the enemy didn’t have a signal jammer of some sort to stop what we are trying to attempt. Denying the enemy the ability to co-ordinate their attack is the mark of a good defence.”

 

“Understood, Colonel. I will leave this in your hands. Cho out.”

 

“ETA, twenty five minutes. All units to combat readiness.” Voxed Saffron to all Sisters within the order.

It was nearly time.

 

The explosion rang out from further down the road, as the Demolisher and Conqueror Leman Russ tanks fired volley after volley at the main gates to the city. One shot had hit the munitions dump, poorly protected by sand bags and brittle rockcrete. The armed position disappeared under smoke and a massive ball of flame, the concussive force shoving the heretics manning it forward like rag dolls. Several of them were milling about in blind panic, either burning alive, or screaming unable to see or hear due to the blast effects.

 

Once the smoke had cleared, the armed station had been eradicated, the doors behind had buckled, but still standing. Both the lead Leman Russ’ tanks sped forward firing their weapons. Squad Lucia each doubting the wisdom of firing whilst moving. Russ tanks were notorious for being inaccurate whilst mobile, but the doors were so big that it was nearly impossible to miss, especially as they were on a collision course. Sera herself was sure that the tanks were going to collide with the doors, but the massive hinges were unable to withstand such a barrage. Both feel inwards, almost in slow motion. Hitting the ground with such force the tremor was felt even as far away as they were, the sound galvanised the Rhino into action.

 

“Go!” shouted Eliza Cho.

 

Lurching forward the Rhino lead the other vehicles inside the city. It was as Aethelfleda had said. A large open area lay before them. The buildings that went on ahead had hundreds, if not thousands of windows and balconies. A perfect places for snipers.

 

The Rhino gunned down a side alley to allow the Sisters to exit. Polly hefted her heavy weapon, a flamer meaningfully. It was no secret that she had been waiting a long time for this.

 

Patience, Sister signed Aethelfleda, smiling reassuringly.

 

Polly sighed deeply, and nodded. The pilot light of her weapon seemingly mimicking her breathing.

 

Sera had risked a look at the end of the alley, to see the lay of the land. Most of the other vehicles were now entering the area, but there was a back log, as each took in their surroundings. Many were being fired upon, albeit by las weapons. Ineffectual fire against something that can take a hit from a tank projectile. Some were taking the bait, trying to fire at their attackers. Others were disgorging guard squads. One unfortunate group had a missile fired at them. There wasn’t enough left of them to bury as the ordinance had torn the squad asunder.

 

“All units, this is Canoness Cho. Do not, I repeat do NOT leave your vehicles. Guard units 4, 18, 21, and 41 through 57, converge on my position. You will assist us in taking out the sniper positions. Everyone else will stay put. This order will not be disobeyed.”

 

The vox was awash with confirmations.

 

Turning to squad Lucia, Canoness Cho smiled grimly. “This is your debut. Your baptism of fire. Let us take our righteousness to the enemy, and reconsecrate this city in His name!”

 

Squad Lucia, along with the Imperial guard units followed the alley way to a doorway into the large building they were along side. The door had been hastily welded shut. One of the Guard squads planted charges, and destroyed it. The dust and smoke was choking, but was already dissipating as they entered. Stairs were the only feature beyond. Making headway upwards, each room was checked, but no contact was made with the enemy.

 

Frustration was starting to boil over in many.

 

“We will meet the heretics soon enough,” admonished Cho lightly. “Just be sure that every room is checked. Be aware for traps. Let not haste be your undoing!”

 

After an hour, it was apparent that the building was on a scale that even Cho had never seen. It was an apartment block, and baring the neglect an affluent one. Many had furniture, hand carved from exotic woods, rare paintings, and statues of alabaster and marble. But no inhabitants. No bodies. Nothing.

 

On the vox, other squads were confirming similar reports. Cho demanded a status report from the entourage below. Sniping had ceased.

 

Where were they?

 

“They must have retreated to a different position”, Agatha said quietly, echoing her thoughts.

 

“Regardless. We will continue to sweep the building. I want this building secure.”

 

It took another hour to confirm, but the building was indeed vacant. At the rear there was a walkway to the next building that had been shattered in the middle to prevent access. There was little else to do, but rejoin the Rhino and make way to the next. Once regrouped, Cho ordered the next building to be searched.

 

What lay ahead was more deadly than any could imagine.

[Lady_Canoness]

It took me forever to get here and read this story (and for that, I am sorry) but I like what you're doing here. Not too ambitious and biting off more than you can chew - a good, solid piece that can keep going without burning out. Good job :)

 

Also, kudos for taking on Sisters - they are a tough bunch to write about (and even tougher to write well!)

 

-L_C

[Aqui]

It took me forever to get here and read this story (and for that, I am sorry) but I like what you're doing here. Not too ambitious and biting off more than you can chew - a good, solid piece that can keep going without burning out. Good job ;)

 

Also, kudos for taking on Sisters - they are a tough bunch to write about (and even tougher to write well!)

 

-L_C

 

Coming from yourself, that's a real compliment :D Thank you.

[Aqui]

I don't like to double post, but hot off the press it the next part. I had to get this down onto screen as I'd have forgotten it if I had gone to sleep (It's currently 4am in the Uk and insomnia strikes again :pinch: ), it's also a bit short, but I digress.

 

I am quite proud of certain parts of it, as it's possibly the darkest stuff I've ever written.....

 

Part 6:

 

The entrance to the next building was strewn with rubble, the result of a feeble attempt with explosives. The facade was smashed by the detonation, but had only affected cosmetic damage. It had managed to jam the doors shut however. A guard demolition unit planted charges and within minutes had cleared the reception area beyond. It was formerly a hotel and a luxurious one. Whilst the guard looked around in wonder and avarice at the decoration, squad Lucia viewed the scene in distain.

 

“Is it little wonder that this world was unprepared for an attack, when the natives value their decadence so much?” Annabelle snorted derisively.

 

“Perhaps, there is evidence of soft living,” Sera replied. Pointing at a wall, she continued, “But I also see piety even here.”

 

The wall housed an Aquila, picked out in gold leaf. Below was a shrine, well maintained. By the evidence of wear on the floor, it was also well used.

 

Annabelle snorted again. “It is easy to worship and revere the Emperor in good times, but I have to ask. Do the natives still offer up their prayers to Him on Earth now? Or has their reliance on good living turned their devotion sour?”

 

Sera wanted to reply, but the look on Cho’s face brooked no more argument. Annabelle had seen it too and fell silent.

 

“Aethelfleda?”

 

Aethelfleda had noticed something scratched into the plaster. It was a sign of the ruinous powers. The mere sight of the hex made Polly retch violently, such was its power. The guardsmen hastily made the sign of the Aquila to ward off the evil eye.

 

There were two staircases, to the left and right.

 

“Do we split up Lady?” Agatha asked.

 

Cho paused. Whilst such a move would be more effective, it meant that she would have to split squad Lucia up. They were an effective unit, but on their debut battle, she had wanted to keep an eye on them.

 

“Annabelle, take Agatha, Polly and some of the Guard squads. You take the left staircase, I will take the other. Report in every ten minutes. Any contact you make enemy or otherwise, report immediately. The other guard squads will hold this position.”

 

“Understood Lady.” Annabelle and her entourage took to the stairs double time. Sera watched them go, and felt a pinch of jealousy. Fighting such feelings with disgust, Sera turned her attention to taking the point position up the other flight.

 

Cho had noticed her reaction.

 

“I take it you are wondering, why I asked Annabelle to lead the other group?”

 

“I only wish to serve the Order to the best of my abilities, Lady Canoness.”

 

“And you do so. However, if it is of any consolation, I asked Annabelle because I feel that she needs the experience....”

 

Saffron Sera didn’t understand what she meant for a split second, but then realised the significance.

 

“Come on. We have much to cover. I want this building secure before our heavy artillery can proceed.”

 

 

 

Annabelle ‘s mind was racing, her heart full of pride. The look on Sera’s face was priceless, although she had been careful to hide her own reaction when Canoness Cho had made her decision. This was her time to shine and was fully prepared to take advantage of it. Her auspex showed no sign of movement, but knew well enough not to completely rely on such equipment.

 

Beyond them was a long corridor with many doors leading from it. Smashing the first one from its hinges, she advanced not heeding Polly’s warning. There was nothing inside out of the ordinary. It had not been looted and was neat.

 

Turning to the door, she noticed Polly was staring at her.

 

“What?”

 

“Nothing except to remind you that pride is all very well, but it leads to mistakes...amongst other things.”

 

Annabelle ignored the comment, dismissing it as another with a pang of jealousy. Stepping past Polly, she hadn’t noticed that the Aquilla within the room had been scratched repeatedly with a crude knife. Polly gasped at the sight. Pausing to offer a brief prayer, she followed her squad leader.

 

After ten minutes, Annabelle called in to confirm no contact. Agatha had taken up the rear with a heavy bolter, with Polly at the front with Annabelle. The guard was skittish, and didn’t want to be there. The regiment was used to more straight forward fighting in an open battle field. Their weapons were adequate for corridor fighting, but they were inexperienced and it showed.

 

At the end of the corridor, there was a lift. A faint whirring noise indicated that it was in motion. Polly had knelt to steady her Flamer. Agatha joined her up front with the heavy bolter.

 

“Canoness, possible contact. Lift facing south. Will apprise of situation momentarily.”

 

Annabelle received a confirmation over the vox, but it was slightly garbled.

 

Strange...

 

The lift had finally reached their level. The doors hadn’t opened however. Approaching the door, they could see that the doors were buckled, preventing them from opening. Polly risked getting closer to listen at the door whilst Agatha covered her. She could hear nothing. Turning to the others, she stated as much.

 

Then a Chainsword, screeching evilly, pierced the door and into her shoulder. Screaming in agony, Polly fell forward dropping her Flamer. The door burst open, the force catapulting Polly into the group.

 

Through the smoke and dust, the shadow of Polly’s attacker could be seen. It was gigantic. A smell permeated the air, one of foul breath, corruption and decay. As the dust settled, the figure roared, the sound reaching down and gripping the most primal part everyone’s souls.

 

Wearing warped armour of purple and black, adorned with disgusting sigils, Annabelle realised that they faced their worst nightmare made flesh.

 

A Chaos Space Marine. And he was angry. Very angry.

 

Canoness Cho and her party had wasted no time in their search. Most of the rooms had collapsed, the results of wayward bombardment of the Orbital weapon platforms. The few remaining were empty. Cho had ordered the Guardsmen to plant charges on timers. Fifteen minutes. It would ensure that they building could not be used as a sniping platform once they had moved on.

 

As they were about to regroup in the main entrance of the hall, Annabelle had voxed her situation. It was slightly garbled.

 

Then, another vox, urgent and in panic.

 

“Canoness! Ch...Space....Ine! Polly down! ........Repeat, we need reinfr.....!”

 

Cho’s blood ran cold. If she heard correctly, a nightmare that she herself dreaded was upstairs tearing into her Sisters.

Uttering a cry, she charged up the other stair case in aid of her beleaguered sistren.

 

The despicable creature in front of Annabelle roared again, leaning forward to intimidate her. The stench it emitted was unbearable. Polly lay prone behind him, but was despite everything still alive. Her screams of agony felt like finger nails across a blackboard. She couldn’t bear to hear her Sister in such pain, but she had the full attention of the Chaos Space marine and could not get past. The corridor was barely wide enough to accommodate him as wide as he was. The Chainsword, still dripping in Polly’s blood was revving, the Marine squeezing the trigger slowly at first, but building up momentum. It’s screeching sounded like a carrion bird from a death world. Raising his arm to strike, he snarled again. But he wasn’t looking at her anymore. He had noticed the guard squads. Frozen in panic many had soiled themselves in terror and could not move.

 

The snarl had turned to laughter, the Marines voice a low bass rumble. Bringing up his Bolt pistol, he fired. The first shot had smashed into three guardsmen, their bodies turning to pulp. The others turned screaming, terror finally being pushed aside, their self preservation instinct kicking in. But it was to no avail. The corridor was narrow for a normal human and thirty panicking men fighting each other to get as far away from this evil creature dealt each other as much damage as the pistol. Agatha and Annabelle, had raised their own weapons to attack. Chainswords of their own, brought to bear against someone nearly twice their height and four times their weight. The Chaos Marine snorted derisively and smashed them out of their hands. Agatha was punched in the face, her unconscious body sent sprawling back.

 

Drawing her own pistol, Annabelle fired. The bolts bounced of the Marines’ armour, unable to make even a dent. Now empty, Annabelle threw it at him, a final act of defiance. Ignoring the pistol as it hit his face plate, he holstered his own and grabbed her around the neck, his hand easily able to surround it. Lifting her off the ground she could feel him start to squeeze, but he took his time, relishing the gasps, the desperation for air, arms and legs flailing ineffectually. Drawing her closer to his face, he noticed her facial scars. Roaring with anger, he threw her to the floor. Annabelle was gasping for air as quickly as the force of the impact with the floor was forcing it back out again. The Marine had taken her Chainsword from the floor and was walking towards her, another low rumble emanating from his face plate. A chuckle, a noise that she had heard before in her nightmares.

 

Realising what he was going to do, she screamed. And screamed.

 

And screamed.

[Lady_Canoness]

Brutal :D

[Aqui]

Brutal :D

 

Too much? I wasn't sure I was going too far :P

[Lady_Canoness]

Brutal :cry:

 

Too much? I wasn't sure I was going too far :(

 

Buddy, there is no such thing as 'too much' in 40k - the darker, the grittier, the MEANER, the better ;)

[Aqui]

Brutal :(

 

Too much? I wasn't sure I was going too far ;)

 

Buddy, there is no such thing as 'too much' in 40k - the darker, the grittier, the MEANER, the better ;)

 

I'm glad you approve then, as I've worked out a number of things I want (as in - will) to happen in the next few parts :cry:

[Dosjetka]

So. Much. GrimDark.

 

I love it! :)

 

Ludovic

[Aqui]

Thanks BBL :D

 

I have another part to post before I change to carry on with my other stories for a while.

 

Hopefully this won't disappoint!

 

Part 7:

 

Canoness Cho cursed herself for letting the others Sisters investigate the other side of the building. She hadn’t expected a Traitor Space Marine in their midst. Trailing behind the remnants of squad Lucia, the Imperial Guard units under her command stopped suddenly.

 

 

“Move damn you! Otherwise feel my wrath!”

 

“Slag that!” cried a Guardsman defiantly. “I’m more afraid of him!” pointing over her shoulder.

 

Turning slowly, she saw the creature who had torn Annabelle and her comrades to pieces. The loathsome monster hissed in expectation. He knew she was the ranking officer amongst them, and the focus of his next attack. Sera stood in front of her, Chainsword at the ready.

 

“No!” snarled Cho, angry, more of own her failings than Sera’s presumption of acting as her bodyguard.

 

“I’ve lost too many today. This....thing will die at my hands, or not at all!”

 

Eyes wet with tears, she brought up her Power sword. It was a rare thing. When empowered, it glowed with a Blue tinge.

 

Beautiful and terrible to behold. And so was the weapon.

 

“For the Emperor!” Charging, she jumped up, trying to gain the upper hand. The Marine swatted her, his fist connecting with her midriff. Falling clumsily, she rose, every part of her body aching. A frontal attack wasn’t going to work. Her opponent was fast, frighteningly so. And his strength, she felt as if she’d been run over by a Land Raider.

 

Striding forward, the traitor was making a snuffling noise, something Cho presumed to be sniggering. Arrogance, thought Cho. Something, I might be able to use.

 

Cho fell back, baiting the traitor to come to her. The Marine had other ideas. Lunging forward, he grabbed Aethelfleda by the arm and kicked her in the chest. The unfortunate Sister was separated from her arm. Aethelfleda was unable to scream, but her face was a rickus mask of agony. Sera was knocked over by her prone body, both falling in a heap. Cho having had enough, she flew at her enemy, incoherent rage clouding her judgement. Ducking under the renegades sweeping Chainsword , she turned her own blade upwards. Thrusting up with everything she had, it connected, hitting the chest.

 

It didn’t stop him. If anything, it made him even more angry. Hastily withdrawing her weapon, Cho backed away. Roaring at the top of his considerable lungs, the evil creature charged. Preparing herself for the worst Cho closed her eyes.

 

And was deafened by the sound of a heavy bolter at close range.

 

Turning sharply, Cho could see Agatha, struggling to hold the blessed weapon straight. But her aim was accurate enough. Already damaged, the Armour was weakened enough for the heavy bolt to blast through the body. Gore and even less savoury substances sprayed out behind.

 

With a titanic thud, the renegade Space Marine fell, screaming as he did so. Not waiting for another chance, Cho lifted her Power sword high, and cut the despicable thing’s head off.

 

Sera had regained her senses enough to try to staunch Aethelfleda’s bleeding, but it was obvious that unless treated soon, she was not going to live.

 

“Annabelle? Polly?”

 

“Alive. Barely. Annabelle is particularly torn up.....literally.”

 

Cho could see the titanic effort that Agatha was making just being able to stand.

 

“Rest Sister. Unit 43, this is Cho. Return and deactivate those charges. Colonel. Cho. Please send your best medicae personnel to my position. I have multiple wounded, four in serious condition.”

 

“I’ve already been notified, Lady. I’m heading your way with my primary medicae team.”

 

“Hurry Colonel. Hurry.”

 

 

 

It took four days. During that time, Canoness Cho personally lead the guard units in sweeping out the buildings in the immediate area. Beyond their initial staging area, there was a large boulevard, where human traitors had holed up to resist them. They failed. The guard regiments had taken many casualties, but finally, the area was secure enough to make ready to move on.

 

Saffron Sera had followed the Canoness, worried about the change in her. Cho had become vengeful, ruthlessly slaying traitors left and right. She had also challenged a Commissar who had dared tell her that she was wrong to execute two guardsmen who were derelict in their duty. He was lucky enough to merely have his arm dislocated.

 

The harsh reality of squad Lucia’s injuries were playing on her mind. Aethelfleda and Annabelle had nearly died on the operating table, only being saved by blood transfusions offered by Sera and herself. The other sisters of the Order had been organised into larger squads of fifteen, ensuring that each group had at least three heavy weapons, and as many with conventional weapons.

 

Sera had hoped it would be enough, but she was more worried for the Canoness herself. Working for days without rest, and barely any food, she was a shadow of the leader she was. Sera had told her she needed rest, but Cho was too highly strung.

 

“I will not rest until I complete our mission. I owe that to our fallen Sisters.”

 

“Lady, I lament as well, but ultimately, we are but a few of many within the order. You should rest. Celestian Motoko can organise our Sisters. I beg you, rest.”

 

Cho stared at Sera sadly.

 

“Thank you for your concern Saffron, but whilst it might be so that a Guardsman is but a number amongst millions, I value the life of every single Sister under my command. To nearly lose four of you on your first proper campaign, is a deep wound for me. It may never heal...”

 

“Lady, they still live. Aethelfleda and Polly are being fitted with augmetics, and Annabelle is recovering well from her injuries. Whist there were so many of them, the cuts the Traitor Marine made were relatively shallow. And Agatha is already with another squad on patrol. She can’t wield a heavy weapon, but there are Sisters enough for that. This battle if anything has taught us to be ever vigilant. A lesson I intend to never forget.”

 

Cho smiled weakly, the first for many days, and Sera could see she understood.

 

“Summon Motoko to me. I will charge her with instructions.”

 

Saluting, Sera was about to go, when Cho stopped her.

 

“I’m proud of you Saffron. So very proud.”

 

 

 

Having spoken to Motoko, Sera went to see her fallen Sisters, in the Medicae centre. They had used the very room that Aethelfleda had fallen, as she was too weak to move. There were still blood stains on the floor, but it had been cleaned out and sterilised.

 

Aethelfleda , as weak as she was, tried to sign a greeting, but Sera gently told her to rest. Her left arm was still being constructed, an Adept of the Mechanicus uttering incantations to activate it. Wires trailed off into a cogitator from service ports along the arm. It was silver, sleek, beautiful in an inhuman way.

 

“I’m surprised you haven’t asked for a vox unit for your throat, Sister.”

 

Aethelfleda shook her head slowly, her smile saying it all. I’m used to it.

 

Annabelle was sleeping, fitfully. Whilst her physical injuries were more stable, what had been done to her with her own Chainsword had been keeping her awake. She had been heavily sedated, to help her recover. Her face was a ruin, the pious scars she had been given were torn. A lump over one of them was an angry red, her body trying to fight off an infection. Her right leg was broken, and her shoulder had to be relocated. The rest of the damage was done to her torso.

 

Annabelle Chrysanthemum would be able to fight again, but not any time soon.

 

Polly was also in a lot of pain. Her augmetic shoulder was meshing well with the rest of her body and she should be able to return to duties within two weeks, but she was fraught with guilt and was fretting over her perceived failings.

 

“Polly, nothing else could have been done. It is well known how stealthy Astartes can be, especially the older ones. That one seemed very old. “

 

“Maybe so, but I have to be out there. I have a world to save, Saffron.”

 

Had that last statement, been said by anyone else and Sera would have taken issue with its arrogance, the audacity, but for Polly this was no ordinary mission, despite the fact it was also their first. It was a holy mission to reclaim a shrine world, like her home world. She felt as if she had failed before she had begun.

 

“Courage Sister. There is plenty of time still, to save this world. You aren’t done yet.”

Polly smiled slightly, her worries salved a little. But Sera knew that it would be sometime before any of her Sisters would be back to full fighting strength.

 

In their name, she would have to kill more traitors.

 

 

An hour later, Celestian Motoko sent for Sera. Motoko was with Colonel Vype studying a holviewer.

Motoko was a tall woman, taller than even Cho, but leaner which made her seem even taller. She had some facial scars, mainly from battles long past. Despite looking young around 40 years standard, she was actually older. A lot older. No one knew by how much, but she was one of the fastest of them, and strong.

 

“Leading Sister.” Sera saluted formally. Whilst Motoko was still a Celestian in rank, Sera made a point of acknowledging the temporary rank bestowed to her. There were some who didn’t like Motoko, but it was not known why. By referring to her as such, she was stating her opinion of her as well as following the chain of command.

 

“Sera, please. It’s Motoko. If you have to use some form of rank then ‘Celestrian’ is fine. I’m not one for revelling in my rank, as you know.

 

“Well, anyway, we have pushed forward some way, and have found a rather large rats’ nest. I could do with some help in flushing it out.”

 

Studying the map and picts, Sera nodded. Like many others, she was getting frustrated. She wanted to be out there taking this world back, not skulking around jumping at shadows.

 

“I thought you might be interested Saffron,” chuckled Motoko mildly. “Here’s the plan....”

 

 

An hour later, three squads of Battle Sisters, a squad of Celestians, and a Seraphim squad led ten squads of Guardsmen, into the city gardens. Once beautiful, they had long fallen into disrepair. Corruption had attacked everything, the insidious touch of Chaos choking and cloying. Sera motioned to a heavy Flamer carrier by the name of Sylia to move further ahead.

 

Nodding Sylia closed the gap within the group. Sylia was a new Sister as was Sera. But because of the notice that her squad had been given, she was in awe of her. She was diligent, pious and hardworking. It also helped that she was good natured meaning that even the most unfriendly of Sororitas had nothing bad to say about her.

 

The only problem was that she had little self worth, and it had begun to show. There were a couple of times where she was trying too hard to impress, that she had made a mistake. Whilst not serious, it needed to be rectified. Sera wanted Sylia in her squad, because she knew that she could boost her self esteem, but not at the expense of the others.

 

Motoko was at the front, her innate ability to lead evident to all. The group was spread out in formation, taking in their unfamiliar surroundings carefully. At the centre of the gardens was a tree. Ancient as it was large, it dominated the view ahead. Its branches stretched out over a distance of three hundred feet, it used to offer visitors a comfortable shaded area to sit.

 

No longer.

 

Upon its branches were hundreds of corpses, each hung by rope. Men, women and children all dangled at the noose. Fat black birds worried the bodies, sinister red eyes watching them approach.

 

“Colonel, this is Motoko. We have found the denizens of this city. All dead.”

 

 

The advanced party waited for the Colonel catch up with them. He had brought some of the vehicles with him, mainly for the task of bringing down the tree. It was impossible to bring down by any other means except by ordinance.

One of the Orders’ Immolators set the tree aflame once it was felled, to stamp out any possible risk of disease. It was too impractical to dig a mass grave, even with a dozer blade, so the whole area was set aflame, forever destroying the last place of beauty this world had.

 

Another two weeks, and the group had encountered resistance from the rebellion. The nature of the city made it ideal to hide. There were so many cellars, and old rooms that were sealed up and built upon that were not on the maps, but slowly the city was being retaken.

 

At the end of the fourth week, they had managed to reach the Citadel at the centre. As expected, it was heavily fortified. An imposing structure, that reminded those who gazed upon it of a twisted hand, clawing the sky. Preparations were made to attack, but a message from Captain Ambustio had put paid to it being carried out immediately.

 

“We have taken the Hive City. Aside from token resistance, there was nothing to attack. The native population was slaughtered. I can only assume that the heretics’ objective was never the Manufactories. In fact all of them were destroyed. I have decided to return to convene with your party.” He told Canoness Cho, who had since retaken command.

 

“Understood, Brother-Captain. The situation we find ourselves in is not typical either. We have found relatively little resistance, and those who are cornered take their own lives than fight. It is bizarre.”

 

“My Brothers and I will arrive at the city by night fall. It would be prudent to make no move until we have assessed the situation together. The news you brought of the Traitor Astartes, is troubling. I have my suspicions as to which former Chapter he belonged to. If I am correct, there will be others as they do not work alone. Be vigilant, Lady.”

 

“I await your arrival.”

 

Annabelle Chrysanthemum, had taken patrol duty along with Polly Sage and Aethefleda Du Pont. They had requested the duty, as they had no wish to remain in the apothecarion for longer than they could get away with. Agatha and Saffron had remained with the Canoness. Whilst they were physically able, there were still more than few jitters to begin with, and had jumped at many shadows, before they had managed to get back to some semblance of calm. Annabelle’s face was still healing, her ritual scar forever ruined, by another that ran at an angle to it. Recalling that day, still made her blood run cold, and she yearned for combat to be able to exorcise the feelings of helplessness. In her minds’ eye she could see the demonic visage of the traitor Astarte who tried to mutilate her with her own Chainsword. The laugh he made as he cut into her, again and again and again. The scar tissue on her face itched something fierce, and she tried to ignore it, but she found herself scratching it over and over. Holding out her hand, she could see her own blood on her fingers. The lump that caused the itching had virtually gone however. Taking a salve she had been given, she applied it to her face. The itching receded, but was still annoying her. She had more important things to do, than worry about her face. There were traitors to kill, and Annabelle intended to kill one for each of the dozens of cuts she received from that monster.

 

It was the last thing she ever thought.

 

Aethefleda thought briefly of Annabelle . She was worried about her. Whilst she seemed to recover from her injuries far quicker than she should have, her demeanour had changed. She was brooding, not willing to speak as she once had. A pall on squad Lucia was cast, and she missed not having Agatha and Saffron with them. Noticing movement out the corner of her eye, she turned, her reflexes excellent despite her recent injuries.

 

But they weren’t quick enough.

 

Polly turned, hearing a clatter of armour. She had taken point and was further away from the others. Cursing herself for allowing this, she turned to see a shadow over a prone form. It had noticed her. Raisin her bolter to fire, the figure pounced, leaping a great distance. Tripping over rubble, Polly and her attacker fell backwards a stream of light allowing her to see.

 

“No! God Emperor, Noo!”

 

The figure fell upon the body, it’s weapon a blur against the light. Whispering a final benediction, Polly Sage wished her other sisters well, before being cut to pieces by the creature hissing and snarling.

Edited June 22, 2012 by Aquilanus

[Dosjetka]

Night Lords, per chance?

 

Ludovic

 

EDIT: Oh, and it's "Celestians", not "Celestrians" as you've been writing it up to now. I saw it earlier on but I wasn't sure and forgot to check :lol:

Edited June 22, 2012 by Battle-Brother Ludovic

[Aqui]

Night Lords, per chance?

 

Ludovic

 

EDIT: Oh, and it's "Celestians", not "Celestrians" as you've been writing it up to now. I saw it earlier on but I wasn't sure and forgot to check :D

 

Bugger :D

 

I'll go back and change it in a bit.

 

As for your guess..a good one, but no.

Edited June 22, 2012 by Aquilanus

[I-Seek-Knowledge]

Well, I'm still enjoying the story so far. however I dislike the deaths of the three sisters at the end, it seemed their characters did not get much development. Although as a song of fire and ice reader I'm not too shocked...

EDIT: Hmmmm, I'm guessing your own homebrewed Bahltimyr Reavers? Also perhaps moar meat to the traitor marines appearance?

Edited June 22, 2012 by I-Seek-Knowledge

[Aqui]

Well, I'm still enjoying the story so far. however I dislike the deaths of the three sisters at the end, it seemed their characters did not get much development. Although as a song of fire and ice reader I'm not too shocked...

EDIT: Hmmmm, I'm guessing your own homebrewed Bahltimyr Reavers? Also perhaps moar meat to the traitor marines appearance?

 

Thanks for the comments. I can't comment on anything at the moment otherwise it'll spoil a few things that I have planned for this story.

 

Stay tuned! :D

[Machine God]

Bravo, Bravo, a very good read!

 

A few recurring spelling mistakes in the first post though. Your spelling as Alter but you mean Altar.

 

As for too brutal? Seems spot on to me.

 

You know how the spiel goes...

 

'Only an eternity of carnage and slaughter and the laughter of thirsting gods.'

 

Sci-Fi references, hmm?

 

The moment the Amber Dragons' Terminator Captain walked onto the Navy ship reminded me in a way of Darth Vader's entrance onto the Corellian Corvette in Star Wars IV: A New Hope.

 

But that is just me.

Edited June 24, 2012 by Scion of Ferrus