Inside the brig of the Macragge's Honour, a deathly silence reigned. Gorden, Lex, Cliff, Thor, and Gaius were each confined to adjacent single cells, thick alloy doors isolating them from the outside world. There was no light, no sound, only cold walls and the heavy rhythm of their own breathing. This was their punishment for acting without orders, a direct manifestation of the Chapter Master's wrath. They accepted it silently, yet found some solace in Dorian's miraculous survival, despite the cost of their own confinement and an uncertain future.
Meanwhile, outside the intensive care unit in the medical bay, a different scene unfolded. Luna Aisa had not returned to her technical post, nor had she gone to rest. She stood silently, motionlessly, before the observation window, looking through the thick glass at the massive figure lying on a medical bed inside, covered in tubes and surrounded by various precision instruments.
Declan Catonia. He had been almost completely disassembled and reassembled. Apothecary Vorlak and his team had performed emergency surgery for dozens of hours, barely pulling him back from the brink of death. He had seven broken ribs, multiple internal organ ruptures and hemorrhages, a fractured spine, extensive muscle tears, and severe concussion and nerve damage... Vorlak's report was cold and detailed, each item shocking.
Luna didn't know how she managed to listen to that report. She only knew that as she looked at the usually boisterous, endlessly energetic, and even somewhat annoying strongman, now lying silently like a broken doll, a sharp, unfamiliar emotion pierced her heart.
She had probably pieced together Dorian's ordeal from the fragments of the mission log and sporadic communications Sergeant Golden had given her earlier—captured by the Word Bearers, thrown into an arena, forced to fight World Eaters like a beast... Finally, even maliciously encased in heavy Power Armor without a Power Pack, like a shackled prisoner beaten and humiliated by the enemy...
For the first time, the calm, almost indifferent girl, whose electronic eyes were always immersed in data streams, found them uncontrollably tinged with red, a hazy film of moisture blurring her vision. She bit her lower lip tightly, forcing herself not to let the unfamiliar liquid fall. She didn't understand what this emotion was, only feeling a suffocating tightness in her chest, as if something was lodged there.
Lina stood quietly beside her, her small hand gently tugging at Luna's clothes, her eyes also red-rimmed, her small face full of worry and fear. She had also heard of the tragic experience of Adult Dorian. The big guy, who was fierce but would protect her and bring her delicious food, had become like this, making her incredibly sad.
...
In another area of the hangar, the atmosphere was somewhat subtle. Jerrison Fall was shrugging at Medrian, the Company Champion of the Eighth Company, with a helpless expression.
"I say, brother, can you stop looking at me like I'm a thief?" Jerrison pointed to the tattered, purplish-red armor he had taken from the Word Bearers. "This thing is a trophy I stripped from those madmen! It was easier to blend in wearing it! I'm not one of them! I'm a Night Lord! A genuine Nostraman Night Haunter! Not in the same league as those prayer-crazed Word Bearers!"
"Are Night Lords any better?"
The Champion stood with his arms crossed, his master-crafted Power Armor gleaming, his gaze still full of suspicion and scrutiny, his Power Axe humming slightly, clearly not entirely believing the story. After all, the appearance of a Night Lord usually meant trouble.
Not far away, several other Night Lords who had accompanied Jerrison began repairing their almost-falling-apart ship with the assistance of several Ultramarines Tech-Sergeants. The process was filled with distrust and strange cooperation—the Night Lords pointed out what was broken, and the Ultramarines Sergeants provided tools and parts, but absolutely forbade them from touching the core systems themselves. Communication between them was mostly through gestures and simple mechanical jargon, the atmosphere awkward and tense.
Just then, Chapter Master Calgar appeared at the hangar entrance. He was not wearing his helmet, and his face was still stern, but his previous thunderous rage seemed to have subsided somewhat. He first glanced at the ship being repaired and the strangely behaving group, frowning slightly, then seemed to remember something.
Jerrison Fall… He remembered that name and face. This person should have been taken away by the Dark Angels after being captured on Brakka VII, right? How could he be here, and how did he save Dorian? How could the Dark Angels have let him escape? Were those mysterious "internal affairs" behind this again?
A series of questions flashed through Calgar's mind, but he temporarily suppressed them. The most important thing at the moment was to deal with Dorian and the Second Squad. He did not disturb the strange "harmony" in the hangar and turned to leave.
His destination was the medical bay.
When Chapter Master Calgar's tall and imposing figure appeared outside the intensive care unit, Luna and Lina immediately noticed, quickly turned, and saluted.
"Chapter Master!" Luna's voice was still calm, but her slightly red-rimmed eyes did not escape Calgar's notice.
Lina was even more nervous, her small hands trembling. This was her first time seeing an Astartes Chapter Master, one of the de facto rulers of Ultramar, up close. The powerful aura made her almost afraid to breathe.
Calgar nodded slightly, his gaze passing over them to the unconscious warrior inside the observation window. He watched in silence for a long time, the regular beeping of the medical instruments unusually clear in the corridor.
After a long while, he finally spoke slowly, his voice deep and steady, yet carrying an undeniable power:
"Brother Declan Catonia… His mind may not be as meticulous as a Librarian's, and his actions sometimes lack forethought."
He paused, then continued: "However, his loyalty to the Emperor, to the Primarch, to Ultramar, and to the Ultramarines Chapter… is beyond doubt. He possesses the heart of the purest warrior."
"The torment and humiliation he endured… I have learned from medical reports and fragmented intelligence." Calgar's gaze sharpened, as if it could penetrate the glass and see everything Dorian had suffered. "Facing a formidable enemy, he fought until exhaustion; trapped in a desperate situation, he preferred death to surrender. Even when stripped of his strength and shackled, he never bowed his head to the enemy."
"He did not disgrace the Ultramarines," Calgar concluded, his tone firm and resolute. "He is the pride of Ultramar, a true Astartes warrior. When he awakens, tell him that his Primarch… and his Chapter Master… are proud of him."
These words were not only an affirmation of Dorian but also a declaration to Luna, who stood waiting outside the window, and to all who were concerned about this matter.
Luna pressed her lips together tightly and nodded emphatically, the moisture in her eyes seeming to intensify. Lina also sniffled hard, her small face displaying a complex expression of pride and sadness.
Calgar took one last look at Dorian, then turned and left the medical bay. His steps were steady and firm.
The Chapter Master's words, like a silent force, dispelled some of the gloom that hung over the medical bay. They acknowledged Dorian's worth and gave meaning to the suffering he had endured.
Although the future remained challenging, the Second Squad's punishment was not yet over, and Jerrison's presence was still a variable, at this moment, at least one thing was clear and firm—the recognition of a loyal warrior and the unbreakable brotherhood among the Ultramarines. Luna once again turned her gaze to the window, her eyes becoming more resolute. She would stay there until he woke up and heard the Chapter Master's acknowledgment with his own ears.
The darkness and silence of the confinement cells seemed to press down on the senses like a physical entity. Time lost its meaning, leaving only the monotonous echo of their own heartbeats and breathing, and the occasional, extremely faint metallic friction sound from next door—the sound of Lex unconsciously moving his bionic limb.
Gorden remained seated against the wall, the Chapter Master's words, "You are relieved of your duties as Sergeant," carving themselves into his heart like a cold chisel. This self-reproach and loss were far more painful than physical confinement. He had led his squad to take huge risks but failed to bring back his brother with his own hands, ultimately having to rely on some Night Lords of unknown origin to clean up the mess, which made him feel like an utterly failed Sergeant.
Lex, in the adjacent cell, shifted his weight restlessly, the alloy floor emitting a faint sound. He didn't care about the confinement, even finding the punishment rather light. What he cared about was the outcome—Dorian was back alive, and that was enough. As for the method? The process? Those weren't important. The only thing that bothered him was owing a favor to that traitor, Jerrison, a feeling worse than swallowing a fly.
Cliff's footsteps ceased; he, too, seemed to have chosen to sit down, a nearly inaudible sigh escaping in the darkness. His brain was still working efficiently, but no longer replaying the mission; instead, he began to think about the future. With Sergeant Golden dismissed, the Second Squad would inevitably need a new Sergeant. Who would it be? Himself? Lex? Or someone transferred from another squad? Whatever the case, the squad would need time to re-integrate. And Dorian's severe injuries further drastically reduced the squad's combat effectiveness.
Thor's thoughts were entirely on medical matters. Based on the limited information, he constantly simulated Dorian's possible injuries and required treatment plans in his mind. He even began to conceive several new drug formulations that might accelerate bone and nerve healing, despite having no tools or data-slates at hand. This was a professional anxiety unique to a medic.
Gaius was immersed in his own thoughts. Angerthas' warning still echoed in his ears. The Lord of Change's "gift" was certainly not benevolent. That dormant left arm, that strange "vision," all felt like a ticking time bomb buried within him. He didn't know what he would become in the future, and this uncertainty filled him with deep fear and… a hint of an inexpressible, chosen thrill?
Silence once again enveloped them.
Who knew how much time had passed, perhaps a few hours, perhaps longer. Footsteps once again echoed from outside the corridor.
This time, the sound of footsteps instantly tensed the nerves of everyone in the confinement cells!
The footsteps were heavy, steady, and full of an inhuman sense of power; each step caused an almost imperceptible yet clear vibration in the alloy floor—these were the footsteps of Terminator armor! And they were approaching them!
Gorden suddenly looked up, Lex stood up straight, Cliff and Thor also stopped their thoughts, and Gaius held his breath.
Who was it? Chapter Master Calgar returning? Or…?
The footsteps stopped at the door of their confinement cell. A low, familiar voice spoke through the external communicator, like distant thunder:
"Former Sergeant Golden. And members of the Second Squad."
It was Angerthas! The Grey Knights Terminator Captain!
Gorden's heart jumped, and he immediately responded, "Captain Angerthas? You… why are you here?" He was very surprised, as Chapter Master Calgar had explicitly ordered no visitors during confinement.
"Chapter Master Calgar has ordered that no one is allowed to visit us," Cliff calmly added, reminding the other party of the rules.
Angerthas' voice was unruffled, as if stating a simple fact: "The Chapter Master's command applies to the crew of this vessel and the Ultramarines. We… are not among them."
He said this very naturally, even with a hint of matter-of-factness. As if the very existence of the Grey Knights transcended these ordinary rules and regulations.
The five people in the confinement cell were all stunned for a moment, then reacted. Indeed… given the Grey Knights' transcendent status and almost independent command structure, Chapter Master Calgar's order probably didn't apply to them…
"…" There was a moment of silence in the communicator. Everyone was a bit speechless by Angerthas' "justified" boundary-crossing behavior, yet they couldn't refute it.
"I came to confirm your status and to inform you: that warrior, Declan Catonia, his vital signs have stabilized. Apothecary Vorlak states that his survival is no longer in doubt, but full recovery will require a long time," Angerthas continued, bringing them good news that finally eased their anxious hearts.
"Thanks to the Emperor…" Thor murmured, and the others also secretly breathed a sigh of relief.
"However," Angerthas' tone remained unsparing in its transition, "the spiritual trauma and corruption he suffered require strict monitoring. The torment of the Warp, especially the influence of the Word Bearers and Khorne's domain, does not act solely on the flesh."
Everyone understood this point. Returning from such a place, one's soul could not possibly be intact.
"Furthermore, regarding that Night Lords, Jerrison Fall." Angerthas' voice seemed to gain a hint of caution, "His motives remain a mystery. His claim of 'doing it on a whim' lacks sufficient logical support. His connection with the Dark Angels is also a potential variable. This individual requires absolute vigilance; do not relax your guard because of his actions this time."
"We understand," Gorden said in a deep voice. "We will remember his favor, but we will not forget his nature."
"That is good then." Angerthas seemed satisfied with this answer.
Then, he was silent for a moment, seemingly choosing his words, and then spoke again. This time, however, the content surprised everyone:
"In addition… based on our observations and assessments, and the… unique nature of this incident. The Grey Knights Chapter believes that the composition and existence of the Second Squad still hold value for continuously monitoring Gaius' condition and responding to potential Chaos threats related to him."
He paused, then continued, "Therefore, we suggest to Chapter Master Calgar that, after appropriate punishment, he consider preserving the integrity of the Second Squad, and… appoint a new Sergeant who emphasizes discipline and rationality more."
The meaning of these words was clear! The Grey Knights had interfered in the internal affairs of the Second Squad! They not only suggested preserving the squad but even had a preference for the next Sergeant! And "emphasizes discipline and rationality" almost explicitly pointed to Cliff!
The atmosphere in the confinement cell instantly became subtle and complex.
Gorden's heart was a mix of emotions, both relief that the squad might be preserved and a strange feeling of external forces interfering with internal affairs, but more than that, a sense of release—if Cliff were to take over, it would indeed be the most suitable choice.
Cliff himself fell silent, clearly digesting this sudden information. Lex grunted, saying nothing, seemingly not caring much about who became Sergeant, as long as the squad remained. Thor felt this might be a good outcome. Gaius felt a hint of unease; did the Grey Knights' "suggestion" mean he would be more closely tied to this squad for some kind of "observation"?
"My words are finished," Angerthas said finally. "Make the most of your time until your confinement ends."
The heavy footsteps sounded again, gradually fading away, leaving the five in the darkness to digest this information-dense "visit."
Angerthas' arrival not only brought good news about Dorian but, more importantly, revealed the Grey Knights' attitude and intervention. This was almost tantamount to pointing the way for the Second Squad's future—they would not be disbanded, but they had to change, to become more "disciplined and rational."
Who knew how much longer passed before Gorden's voice sounded again, this time with a hint of relief and a faint sigh: "…It seems we still have a chance to atone for our mistakes."
"Hmph, lucky for you," Lex grumbled, but his tone wasn't truly annoyed.
"A great responsibility," Cliff responded concisely, as if already stepping into the role.
"I hope we can get out soon to see Dorian," Thor said.
"…Mm," Gaius also softly responded.
Although still confined, although the future was uncertain, although he had lost his Sergeant position, his brother was alive, the squad was preserved, and the future seemed to have new goals. This cold darkness no longer seemed so unbearable.
They fell silent again, but this time, the silence was less oppressive and confused, and more filled with contemplation and thought. About the past, about the future, about responsibility, about brotherhood.
Until the small food window opened again, a faint light entering, signaling the passage of another "cycle." They silently took their food and quietly finished it.
When the small window closed again and darkness returned, Gorden suddenly said in a low voice:
"When we get out… we'll have to buy that Jerrison a drink… though I doubt there'll be any good liquor for him."
A few suppressed, almost inaudible chuckles came through the communicator.In this absolute isolation and darkness, a certain cohesion was quietly brewing.
A whole month.
Thirty standard days of confinement slowly passed in absolute darkness, silence, and solitude. For the keen-sensed Astartes, accustomed to battle and action, this was nothing short of mental torture. But when the heavy alloy door finally slid open with a weighty hiss of pressure, and the light from the outside corridor flooded in, Gorden and his four companions felt not just simple relief, but a calm and reflection that had settled after a period of introspection.
They walked out of the isolation chamber one by one, their movements slightly stiff, needing a moment to adjust to the light and the expansive space. They exchanged glances, each seeing the tempered steadiness in the other's eyes. A month of isolated contemplation was enough for them to deeply recognize their own mistakes and the weight of their responsibilities.
A Battle-Brother was already waiting in the corridor, conveying the Chapter Master's latest orders: confinement ended. The Second Squad's formation was to be retained. Gorden was reinstated to his original position, continuing to serve as the Second Squad's Sergeant.
The order was concise and direct, without unnecessary admonishments, yet Gorden felt his shoulders slump. This newly re-assigned duty felt heavier than ever before. He respectfully saluted the messenger: "Understood. Thank you, Chapter Master, for your trust."
The other four also nodded slightly, unsurprised by this outcome. Angerthas' previous "visit" had already hinted at it.
They did not linger, nor did they return to their cabins to wash and rest. Their first priority was to rush to the medical bay. Their greatest concern was for the Brother whose life had been saved at such a great cost.
In the intensive care unit, Declan Catonia had passed the most critical stage, but his condition remained grim. His massive body was secured to a specialized medical bed, surrounded by various life support and monitoring equipment. He lay with his eyes open, staring blankly at the ceiling, seemingly with a faint consciousness, but still unable to respond or even move his eyeballs with ease. His body was like a shattered piece of pottery, barely stitched together, requiring a long time and countless reconstructive surgeries to gradually regain function.
Luna Aisa still stood silently outside the observation window, just as she had a month ago. She looked a bit thinner, but the focus in her eyes and that subtle hint of worry remained unchanged. Lina had pulled up a small chair and sat at Luna's feet, clutching the worn Ultramarines plushie and the cold Grey Knights statue, her little head nodding off to sleep. But whenever the medical equipment made a slightly louder sound, she would immediately jolt awake, anxiously looking inside.
Seeing Gorden and his four companions arrive, Luna gave a slight nod. Lina rubbed her eyes and timidly stood up.
"How is he doing?" Gorden's voice was very low, as if afraid of disturbing something.
"Vital signs are stable. Apothecary Vorlak said the most dangerous stage has passed. But the nerve and bone damage is extremely severe, especially the impact on his spine and brain... The recovery process will be very slow, and... there's no guarantee he'll fully recover to his previous state." Luna's voice was calm, but the facts she stated were incredibly cruel.
Everyone's mood grew heavier. Looking at their Brother inside, who could only stare at the ceiling, and then remembering his vibrant, boisterous self from before, the stark contrast made their hearts ache.
Lina carefully walked forward and gently placed a new plushie she had secretly sewn these past few days on the observation window sill, directly facing Dorian inside.
It was a brand new Ultramarines plushie, meticulously sewn from scraps, and though the stitches were still clumsy, it clearly mimicked Dorian's imposing figure in Power Armor, carrying a Chainsword. She had even awkwardly embroidered the iconic battle damage on his faceplate with red thread.
"Lord Dorian..." Lina whispered to the glass window, "...I made you a new one... I hope you like it... Get well soon..."
Her voice was very soft, but in the quiet corridor, it was exceptionally clear. That clumsy yet sincere blessing brought a warmth and a pang of sadness to the hearts of these iron-willed warriors.
Gorden gently patted Lina's slender shoulder: "He'll get better, Lina. I promise."
Just then, Dorian's vacant gaze on the medical bed seemed to shift ever so slightly, as if he had heard the voices outside, but was unable to react further.
This tiny change, however, invigorated everyone!
"He heard us!" Sol whispered excitedly, "His consciousness is returning!"
This was undoubtedly a positive sign! Although the road ahead was long, the light of hope had not been extinguished.
...
Meanwhile, in the Macragge's Honour's hangar, another farewell was quietly taking place.
Jerrison Fall and his four Night Lords companions had mostly repaired their dilapidated assault craft—at least it looked like it could fly. The help provided by the Ultramarines was limited and heavily monitored, so most of the work was done by themselves.
"Almost done, boss," one of the Night Lords said after checking the engine. "If we stay any longer, I'm afraid those Ultramarines will really go back on their word and feed us Bolters."
Jerrison clapped his oily hands, glanced at the faintly visible Ultramarines guards responsible for "escorting" them, and smirked mockingly: "Don't worry, they still need to save face for now; they won't openly attack. But... it's indeed time to go. This place has too many rules; it's suffocating me."
He looked in the direction of the medical bay and muttered, "Don't know if that fat guy woke up yet... Whatever, none of my business."
He signaled his companions to prepare to board and leave. However, just as he was about to step onto the gangplank, his gaze inadvertently swept over a Power Axe on a weapon rack in the hangar—it was an elaborately decorated, powerful master-crafted Power Axe, belonging to the Eighth Company's Company Champion!
Jerrison's eyes instantly lit up, a cunning glint flashing within them.
He pretended to tie his shoelaces, though his boots had none, and naturally moved closer to the weapon rack. The monitoring guards' attention seemed to be momentarily drawn by the starting spaceship engine.
In that split second! Jerrison's hand shot out like a phantom, with incredible speed and precision, silently plucking the heavy Power Axe from the rack and, with lightning speed, stuffing it into a cleverly disguised storage compartment next to the assault craft's hatch! The entire movement was fluid, so fast it was almost imperceptible!
Then he stood up as if nothing had happened, clapped his hands, and swaggered onto the ship, humming a Nostraman tune.
"Depart!" he shouted to the pilot.
The assault craft's engines roared, and it slowly pulled away from the berth.
The monitoring Ultramarines guards felt as if something was slightly off, but couldn't quite place it, merely reporting as a matter of routine: "Target vessel has departed."
It wasn't until several hours later, when the Company Champion came to the hangar for his daily training, that he discovered his beloved weapon was missing! Reviewing the surveillance footage, he only saw an extremely blurry, fast-forwarded shadow darting past the weapon rack, unable to discern any details!
"Jerrison Fall!!!" The Champion's roar echoed throughout the entire hangar...
Meanwhile, the dilapidated assault craft had long since vanished into the vast star sea. Inside the cabin, Jerrison proudly admired the "acquired" master-crafted Power Axe, growing more satisfied the longer he looked at it.
"Tsk... Ultramarines stuff is flashy... but the feel is good." He weighed the axe, smiling at his companions, "This trip wasn't a waste after all; I got something substantial."
One of the Night Lords sighed helplessly: "Jerrison... anyone but the Company Champion's weapon... Now the Ultramarines will hate us even more."
"Let them hate," Jerrison shrugged indifferently, "they never liked us anyway. Besides, I saved one of their people, so what's wrong with taking some compensation? It's only natural!"
His twisted logic was always so self-righteous.
The small ship sailed into the unknown deep space, continuing their nomadic, adventurous lives, surviving in the cracks between the Imperium and Chaos. And on the Macragge's Honour, the story of this mysterious and troublesome Night Lord became another legend that was both infuriating and amusing.
For the Second Squad, a difficult phase had temporarily concluded. Gorden had regained his position, Dorian had miraculously survived and was slowly recovering, and the Squad was preserved. But many challenges still lay ahead: Dorian's long recovery, the uncertain factors within Gaius, and their need to prove their worth again through action.
The road was still long. But at least, they were once again ready to deploy.
The atmosphere of the Second Squad, back on duty, was different from before. The month of confinement was like a tempering, painful but it wore away some of their impetuosity and added a few degrees of calm. Gorden, wearing his Sergeant's shoulder insignia again, felt the blue ceramite heavier than ever. He was no longer just a leader charging into battle; he also needed to constantly remind himself of the lessons from that reckless action, weighing risks against responsibilities.
The unspoken understanding among the squad members remained, but their communication became more concise and efficient. Lex still silently wiped his Heavy Bolter, but each inspection was more meticulous; Cliff's task planning and resource allocation became increasingly rigorous, almost to the point of being demanding; Sol, in addition to daily training, dedicated a large amount of time to researching Dorian's recovery plan and compiling data on the physiological and psychological effects of the Warp environment on warriors; Gaius, meanwhile, focused more on his self-control training, trying to better master his quiescent left arm and the unease deep within him.
Their assigned tasks remained low-intensity patrols and purges in the star systems surrounding Ultramar, which was both a cautious arrangement by the Chapter Master and an opportunity for them to re-prove their reliability. Each deployment was executed to the highest standards, with clean and decisive actions, meticulous intelligence gathering, and no rash advances. They were slowly washing away their previous stains with impeccable discipline and efficiency.
In the medical bay, Dorian's recovery progressed slowly but steadily. With the combined efforts of Apothecary Vorlak and Sol, he was already able to slightly turn his head and follow his visiting Brothers with an extremely weak gaze. Although he still couldn't speak or make large movements, the emptiness in his eyes gradually faded, occasionally revealing a familiar stubbornness and irritability belonging to Dorian—especially when asked to perform painful rehabilitation exercises.
Lina had almost become a regular at the medical bay. Her new plushie, mimicking Dorian, remained on the windowsill, like a tiny guardian spirit. Sometimes she would softly read some non-classified interesting snippets from the ship's logs to Dorian, or simply sit there quietly with him. Her presence seemed to bring a faint warmth to that space filled with the smell of medicine and cold instruments.
Luna Aisa was still busy with her technical duties, but her frequency of visits to the medical bay also noticeably increased. She usually just stood outside the window, recording Dorian's physiological data readings on her data-slate, or briefly chatting with Sol, rarely going inside to disturb him. But that silent attention was, in itself, a form of support.
Chapter Master Calgar would occasionally appear at the end of the medical bay corridor, silently observing for a moment, not lingering. His demeanor remained stern, but the icy anger had dissipated, replaced by a cautious observation. He was waiting for Dorian's recovery, and also waiting for the Second Squad to deliver their answer through action.
However, beneath the calm, undercurrents had not completely subsided. The news that the Night Lords had come and gone freely on the flagship, even "acquiring" the Company Champion's Power Axe, eventually spread within a small circle. This became a topic of both anger and helplessness among the Eighth Company's soldiers in private. Cassius Champion's face was dark for several days, and his training sessions were exceptionally fierce. This debt was, without a doubt, attributed to the entire Night Lords—especially Jerrison.
On another front, the Grey Knights' presence, though diminished, never disappeared. Angerthas and his two companions still kept to themselves, but their influence was everywhere. The Chapter's internal security level remained high, especially for monitoring Warp fluctuations. Gaius could feel that silver gaze occasionally piercing through layers of deck plating, falling upon him, filled with cold scrutiny.
He himself was battling that strange "perception" ability. Sometimes during training or meditation, he would suddenly catch extremely faint, disorganized fragments of signals—perhaps energy disturbances from distant star systems, perhaps the harmonics of the ship's engines, or even a fleeting strong emotion from a crew member... These pieces of information were erratic and difficult to interpret, yet they reminded him of the power latent within him that was not his own. He heeded Angerthas' warning, striving to suppress and ignore it, but this was like trying to ignore a continuous whisper in his ear, requiring immense mental effort.
Time passed in this somewhat oppressive yet steadily forward-moving rhythm. Dorian's condition improved day by day, and the Second Squad's mission reports grew thicker, their evaluations gradually changing from "under observation" to "stable and reliable."
Until one day, Sol approached Gorden, who was studying star charts in the tactical chamber, with a new medical assessment report.
"Sergeant," Sol's tone carried a rare hint of excitement, "Apothecary Vorlak and I both agree that Dorian's neural response and muscle control recovery have exceeded expectations. He might... be able to start attempting some very simple, passive, conscious control training."
Gorden looked up, his eyes flashing: "Such as?"
"Such as... attempting to mentally activate the most basic servo system interfaces of the Power Armor—of course, with weapons and power pack completely disconnected, retaining only minimal assistance," Sol explained. "This requires immense focus and willpower, but if successful, it will be a huge boost to his neural reconstruction and confidence."
Gorden immediately understood the significance. This was not just rehabilitation training; it was a symbol—a symbol that Dorian was truly, step by step, "coming back."
"What support do you need?" Gorden asked without hesitation.
"We need a specially modified Power Armor, with all unnecessary modules removed, connected to the medical bay's monitoring system. And we also need... someone to assist and encourage him," Sol looked at Gorden.
"I'll arrange it," Gorden nodded immediately. "Lex and Cliff will handle equipment and monitoring coordination. As for encouragement..." He paused, a long-lost, genuine smile appearing on his face, "...we'll all go together. That guy listens best when he's being scolded."
New hope, like a stone thrown into the rigorous, even slightly dull routine, rippled through the Second Squad. They saw the light at the end of the tunnel, and though the road was still long, at least, their most important Brother was climbing back from the abyss with astonishing perseverance, step by step.
And they, as always, would be by his side.
Deep within the Macragge's Honour, in a secure chamber protected by the highest-level psychic barriers and physical isolation measures, the atmosphere was so heavy it felt as if the air itself had solidified. The room was devoid of superfluous decoration, containing only a massive alloy round table and seven high-backed chairs.
Around the table sat six silver-armored giants—the entire Grey Knights squad. Leading them was the Grey Knight Captain, whose demeanor remained as cold as if he were sculpted from ice. To his sides were Valerius, now recovered from his injuries and back to his usual silence, and Kaldor, another Grey Knight with an equally frigid aura. Opposite them sat Angerthas, Hoss, and Kazatoki, the three Terminators. Although all were Grey Knights, a subtle difference in their auras seemed to exist between the two groups; the Terminator trio exuded a more physical sense of oppression, while the Captain's group leaned towards an absolute psychic coldness.
Seated at the head of the table was Chapter Master Calgar of the Ultramarines Chapter. He was not in full armor, wearing only his blue Archon uniform, yet the majesty and power befitting a Primarch's heir were in no way inferior to any Grey Knight present. His gaze was calm yet sharp, sweeping over each silver-armored warrior like a hawk.
The meeting had clearly been underway for some time. The Grey Knight Captain's emotionless voice was delivering a statement, each word like a bead of ice striking the alloy tabletop:
"...In summary, based on all recent observational data and event analysis, the target individual, Gaius, has shown an exponential increase in instability and potential risk. Routine monitoring and observation are likely insufficient to guarantee the containment of possible catastrophic consequences. I believe further measures must be taken."
He paused briefly, his rotating optical sensors seemingly focused on Chapter Master Calgar.
"Primary evidence: In the underground lair of Gloom IV, a Slaaneshi Daemonette attempted to amplify his inner fears, but was instead consumed by a power deep within his consciousness, leading to her self-destruction. This is by no means a phenomenon an ordinary Astartes psyker could achieve. The power hidden deep within his consciousness already possesses the ability to actively resist and even annihilate Warp entities, and its nature... is in the same vein as the Lord of Change's cunning."
"Secondary evidence: Inside the Word Bearers' Daemon warship, he actively interfaced with the ship's Warp energy network and successfully extracted specific fragments of information, precisely pinpointing Declan Catonia's transfer trajectory. This process was accompanied by strong fluctuations characteristic of Tzeentchian energy. This was no accidental perception, but a purposeful, high-precision manipulation and interpretation of Warp energy—a 'blessing' only possible for those favored by the Lord of Change."
The Grey Knight Captain's voice was cold and absolute, carrying an unchallengeable tone of judgment: "These two facts have far exceeded the scope of 'potential risk.' They prove that the target individual has established a deep, dangerous connection with a Chaos God, specifically the Lord of Change. He himself may still believe he is loyal, but his soul and power are irreversibly sliding into the abyss. To prevent any unforeseen circumstances, for the greater good of the Imperium and humanity, I recommend that Gaius be immediately subjected to the highest level of confinement and transferred to the Grey Knights Chapter for... thorough purification or permanent isolation."
The four words "thorough purification" made the temperature in the chamber drop several more degrees. They signified absolute annihilation, from body to soul.
Angerthas, the Terminator Captain,'s heavy helmet rotated slightly, emitting a low hum. He did not directly refute, but said in a deep voice: "The Captain's concerns are logical. The target's state is indeed unusual and full of uncertainty." He then changed his tone, "However, all his actions to date have been motivated by protecting his comrades and serving the Imperium. The information acquired from the Daemon warship was also for the rescue of a companion. The tenacity of his will is evident. The proposal of thorough purification... is too extreme. Perhaps we should hear the Chapter Master's opinion. He is the Primarch's representative, and also Gaius' direct superior and gene-father."
All eyes turned to Chapter Master Calgar.
Calgar leaned forward slightly, his hands clasped on the table, his gaze like a torch, directly meeting the Grey Knight Captain's. His voice was steady and powerful, carrying an unquestionable authority:
"Captain Moreno."
He clearly called out the Grey Knight Captain's name! This indicated that he was not passively receiving information, but had a deep understanding and control over this Grey Knights squad.
Captain Moreno, addressed by name, seemed to subtly, almost imperceptibly, flinch, but remained silent, awaiting further instruction.
"I have heard your analysis and recommendations," Calgar continued, each word resonating with weight. "Based on your duty and understanding, you have made what you believe to be the judgment most aligned with the Imperium's interests. I respect your duty and understand your concerns."
He then shifted his tone, his voice growing deeper: "But, Captain Moreno, you assess risk based on data, on phenomena, on an understanding of the nature of Chaos. While I, Calgar, as a son of Roboute Guilliman, the guardian of Ultramar, assess my warriors not just on these, but also on his actions, his choices, and the loyalty he has proven time and again through his deeds!"
Calgar's gaze swept over all the Grey Knights: "Gaius, perhaps as you say, harbors power within him that is difficult to comprehend, even sharing the same origin as Chaos. He may be enduring temptations and whispers beyond your imagination. But!"
His voice suddenly rose, filled with power: "On Gloom IV, he did not succumb to Slaanesh's sensory temptations! On the Word Bearers' Daemon ship, he did not use that power to seek a way out for himself, but risked being deemed a heretic to search for his brother's whereabouts! His goal from beginning to end has been only one—to fulfill his duty as an Ultramarine, to protect his brothers around him!"
"He did not yield to Chaos!" Calgar's voice thundered, echoing through the chamber. "He chose the Emperor! He chose Guilliman! He chose Ultramar! Every one of his choices proves his loyalty! Is this unwavering loyalty, under extreme pressure and intense temptation, not our strongest weapon against Chaos?!"
He looked at Captain Moreno, his eyes sharp: "Merely because an individual possesses potentially dangerous power, to 'preemptively' purify him when he has not truly fallen, and has even repeatedly achieved military successes? This is not the Imperium's code of conduct, nor is it the Ultramarines' way! This is fear! And fear of Chaos is, in itself, a defeat!"
Calgar took a deep breath and made his final decision: "Therefore, my decision is: Gaius will continue to be supervised and guided by the Ultramarines Chapter. His situation is unique; what he needs is vigilance, guidance, and control, not simple annihilation. How to deal with him is an internal matter for the Ultramarines, and we shall make the decision ourselves. The Grey Knights Chapter can offer advice and support, but the ultimate authority rests with me."
His words were decisive, leaving no room for negotiation. This was the judgment of a Primarch's heir, representing the will of Ultramar.
A profound silence fell upon the chamber.
Captain Moreno was silent for a moment, then his cold voice spoke again: "The Chapter Master's decision has been noted. However, the risk still exists and is growing daily. The Grey Knights Chapter reserves the right to take necessary measures should he show clear signs of falling. At that time, I hope the Chapter Master will prioritize the greater good of the Imperium."
This was a compromise that reserved their position, and also the Grey Knights' bottom line.
"Naturally," Calgar calmly responded. "If that day truly comes, I will handle it myself."
Angerthas then spoke: "That is excellent. Trust and vigilance coexisting is the correct path to confront Chaos." He seemed to lean more towards Calgar's decision.
Hoss, with his massive hammer on his back, gave a muffled sound of agreement. Kazatoki's electronic eyes flickered a few times, seemingly performing some calculation.
Valerius and Kaldor remained silent, like two cold, silver statues.
The meeting concluded, its tone set. Chapter Master Calgar, with his powerful will and trust in his warrior, withstood the Grey Knights' pressure for "purification," securing Gaius the chance to remain with the Ultramarines under internal supervision.
But this did not mean the crisis was over. On the contrary, Calgar had taken all the responsibility and risk upon himself and his Chapter. Every future step Gaius took would be subject to even stricter scrutiny and more severe trials. He would have to prove the Chapter Master's decision today was correct through continuous, impeccable loyalty.
Trust, at this moment, became something heavier than any force. It was both Gaius' opportunity and the tightest shackles placed upon him.
After the meeting, Chapter Master Calgar sat alone in the secret chamber, unmoving for a long time.
He knew the immense risks of this decision, but he believed Primarch Guilliman would have made the same choice—to trust those worthy of trust, to give them a chance to prove themselves, rather than to stifle them prematurely out of fear.
Meanwhile, Gaius was oblivious to the meeting that had decided his fate.
He was still on the training ground, sweating profusely, striving to control himself, battling the whispers within and that dormant arm, all to become a better, more trustworthy Ultramarine.
The path ahead was still fraught with thorns, but at least he still had a chance to walk it.
The medical bay was filled with the faint scent of disinfectant and nutrients, and the rhythmic beeping of instruments was the main melody here.
Outside Dorian's room, Luna and Lina had just been temporarily sent away by Sol, under the pretext of needing "precise neuro-reflex tests," leaving only the unconscious Dorian… and Gaius, who had quietly arrived.
Gaius wasn't wearing armor, only a simple training uniform.
He gently pushed open the door and walked to Dorian's bedside.
The once burly man was now much thinner, confined to the medical bed, sustained by tubes, with only his slightly rising chest and occasional twitching eyelids proving his tenacious vitality.
Those eyes, which used to burn with fighting spirit or irritation, now merely stared weakly at the ceiling, reflecting no light.
Gaius pulled up a chair and sat by the bed, silent for a long time.
He wasn't a man given to confiding, especially when Dorian couldn't respond.
But there were some things he couldn't tell Sergeant Golden, couldn't tell Sol, and certainly couldn't tell the Grey Knights or the Chapter Master.
Perhaps, only in front of this brother, who could give no reaction and reveal no secrets, could he unburden himself of a little of his heavy load.
"Dorian…" Gaius' voice was a little hoarse, breaking the silence of the room, "…can you hear me? Maybe not…"
He gave a self-deprecating laugh, his gaze falling on Dorian's chest, which was wrapped in bandages and connected to various sensors.
"I came… there are some things I don't know who to tell."
He paused, as if organizing his thoughts, his voice low and bewildered, "…that power… you know, 'that thing'… it seems… to be becoming harder and harder to ignore."
"It isn't always violent… sometimes, it's very faint, like background noise… but it always appears… at the most critical, or most desperate moment… suddenly."
Gaius' voice carried a subtle tremor, "On Gloom IV, it helped me ward off Slaanesh's temptation… on the Word Bearers' ship, it let me 'see' you being taken away…"
"It even… seemed to be helping me."
Gaius looked up, his eyes filled with confusion and pain, "But how is that possible? That's the power of Chaos! It's the power of the Lord of Change! Every time it appears, it's like it's dangling bait in front of me… every 'help' is like weaving a bigger web… I don't know… is this a conspiracy, or…"
He clenched his fist tightly: "And I don't understand! Why me, Dorian? Why do those Warp gods not seek out powerful psykers, not seek out Chapter Masters, Primarchs… but choose me? The son of a Planetary Defense Forces soldier, a warrior who is as ordinary as can be, apart from knowing how to shoot and having a bit of luck?
What about me makes me so 'favored' by them?"
His tone carried a sense of almost absurd helplessness and self-doubt.
Then, his voice dropped even lower, as if afraid of being overheard by an invisible presence in the air: "That day… that Slaaneshi Daemonette… it wanted to amplify my fear… and I did see… my greatest fear…"
Gaius' breathing became a little hurried, a hint of lingering fear flashing in his eyes: "I saw… another me… a me radiating blue flames, with only cold calculation and infinite ambition in his eyes… a… 'Chosen' me…"
"He… or rather 'I'… just… just impatiently raised a hand…" Gaius mimicked an extremely slight movement, his face filled with disbelief, "…that Daemonette, which had left both us and the Steel Paladins helpless and almost annihilated… was easily crushed… like an annoying insect… without even a struggle…"
That absolute power, that indifference and efficiency that treated a powerful daemon as nothing, both terrified him and, in the deepest part of his heart… stirred an indescribable thrill.
"I'm scared, Dorian." Gaius' voice finally choked up, and this usually calm and strong warrior now unconsciously had red eyes, "I'm scared of that power… and even more scared… that I might crave that power…"
"Sergeant Golden told me… those Grey Knights… they want to 'purify' me."
He took a deep breath, trying to calm his emotions, "It was Chapter Master Calgar… who once again resisted the pressure… and protected me… He trusts me… He took all the responsibility and risk upon himself…"
"But… but I…" Gaius' fist slammed heavily against his thigh, making a dull thud, "…I'm scared! I'm afraid that if… if one day, I can't hold on… if I really turn to that side… I'll become the most terrifying enemy… I'll disappoint everyone who believed in me… I'll… I'll implicate the Chapter Master! His trust and protection will become his greatest stain!"
This heavy possibility weighed on him like a mountain, making him breathless.
Of the original trio, Elisa had long since fallen in battle, Dorian was now gravely wounded and near death, his future uncertain, and he himself… had been chosen by a cruel twist of fate to be a "Chosen" of a Chaos God… This brutal contrast tore at his heart.
He sat there, head bowed, shoulders trembling slightly, burying his face in his hands, silent for a long time.
Only his suppressed breathing echoed in the ward.
After a long while, he slowly raised his head, wiped the corner of his eyes, and tried to make his voice calm again: "…I'm sorry for telling you all this useless stuff… Get some good rest… Get better soon… Second Squad… can't do without you…"
He stood up, ready to leave.
If he stayed any longer, he feared he wouldn't be able to control his emotions.
However, just as he turned, his hand about to touch the doorknob—
A voice, not through his ears, but directly, clearly, with endless cunning and playful meaning, resounded in the deepest part of his mind.
The voice was like countless tones and languages layered together, both like wise enlightenment and insane babbling, full of mockery and… temptation:
"...Look...lost lamb...confiding in a mute...how...touching...and how...ludicrous..."
Gaius' body instantly froze, his blood seemingly congealing!
"...Fear power? Crave power? This contradictory struggle itself...is the most beautiful symphony..."
"...Why choose you?...Because you are you...a diamond...full of contradictions and possibilities...each facet...reflecting different light...destroying you...or reshaping you...will both be exquisite works of art..."
"...That mortal named Calgar...his trust...his protection...is indeed heavy...isn't it?...Why bear all this?...Embrace true 'logic'...throw yourself into the embrace of the God of Change...you will gain true 'freedom'...and...'power'..."
"...Then...crushing a Daemonette...what does that even count as?...You can even...possess more...understand more...become more..."
"...Abandon that ridiculous and fragile loyalty...it is merely a chain binding you...come...join this...great game..."
The whisper was like the sweetest poison, pouring directly into his soul, stirring his deepest fears, confusion, and that hint of a suppressed tremor for absolute power!
Gaius snapped his head back, looking at Dorian on the bed, who remained unresponsive, as if everything that had just happened was merely his own hallucination.
But the voice was so real, so clear!
His face was ashen, his forehead instantly covered in cold sweat, and he almost stumbled out of the room, slamming the door shut, leaning against the cold metal door, gasping for breath, his heart pounding uncontrollably.
The Lord of Change… he had been there all along!
He had heard all of Gaius' weaknesses and confusion! And, once again, extended that tempting demonic claw!
This time, his voice was no longer just a declaration, but carried specific, targeted seduction aimed at his weakness! Temptation and fear, like two poisonous snakes, once again tightly coiled around his heart.
Gaius leaned against the cold metal door of the ward, his training uniform soaked with cold sweat.
The lingering whispers in his mind, full of cunning and temptation, clung to him like maggots, constantly stirring the fragility and confusion he had just exposed.
The direct whispers of the Lord of Change were clearer and more targeted than ever before, striking at his deepest fears and… that hint of an improper stir within him.
Abandon loyalty, embrace power, achieve "freedom"...
These words echoed in his mind like a curse.
The scene they painted—that of a "Chosen Gaius" annihilating demons and controlling destiny with a mere flick of his hand—dangerously overlapped with his deepest fear of powerlessness and his desire to protect his comrades.
No! It can't be like this!
Gaius abruptly straightened his back, shook his head vigorously, trying to expel those blasphemous thoughts.
He clenched his fists tightly, his nails almost digging into his palms, using the pain to remind himself of reality.
He was Gaius, a member of the Ultramarines Chapter's 7th Company, 2nd Squad, a son of the Planetary Defense Forces.
His loyalty belonged to the Emperor, to Primarch Guilliman, to Ultramar!
He was no chosen one, and he would never become a plaything of Chaos!
The Chapter Master trusted him, enduring the pressure from the Grey Knights Chapter to keep him safe.
Sergeant Golden and his brothers still accepted him.
Dorian was still fighting for his life in the infirmary… He absolutely could not fall! He absolutely could not let all this down!
A strong, almost stubborn determination surged from the bottom of his heart, temporarily overriding the whispers and fears.
He took several deep breaths, trying to calm his expression, then strode out of the medical area and headed to the training grounds.
He needed to move, to sweat, to numb himself with exhaustion, and to reaffirm his identity with familiar training.
On the training grounds, he trained intensely, almost masochistically, with high-intensity shooting and physical exercises.
The recoil of the Bolter made his shoulders ache, and the high-intensity running and equipment training left his muscles sore and him drenched in sweat.
Lex and Cliff looked at him with some surprise as they passed by, but did not disturb him.
They could both feel the unusual tension in Gaius.
It wasn't until his body was almost at its limit, every muscle screaming in protest, that Gaius, utterly exhausted, stopped and collapsed on the edge of the training ground, gasping for breath.
The extreme fatigue did indeed make the whispers recede for a while, but the gloom deep in his heart had not truly dissipated.
He knew this was only a temporary suppression.
...
At the same time, inside the Chapter Master's private contemplation chamber next to his office, Chapter Master Calgar was having a serious conversation with Sergeant Golden.
"...I am aware of Gaius' situation," Chapter Master Calgar said, his back to Gorden, looking out at the endless starry sky, his voice steady but weighted, "Captain Moreno's concerns are not unfounded.
The gaze of the Lord of Change has indeed fixed firmly on him."
Gorden's heart tightened, and he immediately said, "Chapter Master, Gaius' will is very firm! He has been resisting! He..."
Chapter Master Calgar raised his hand, interrupting him: "I know, Sergeant Golden.
I am not questioning his loyalty.
Otherwise, I would not have kept him."
He turned around, his sharp gaze fixed on Gorden, "But trust cannot replace vigilance and guidance.
Keeping him means we must bear this responsibility, guide him to use that power correctly, or at least, control it."
"I understand, Chapter Master," Gorden replied solemnly.
"From now on," Chapter Master Calgar commanded, "the mission priorities of the Second Squad will be adjusted.
Minimize missions that require deep incursions into the Warp or direct confrontation with high-intensity Chaos corruption.
Your primary mission is to ensure Gaius' stable condition.
You are his Sergeant, and one of his most trusted brothers; you must closely monitor any subtle changes in him—whether in behavior, emotion, or fighting style."
"Yes, Chapter Master!"
"Furthermore," Chapter Master Calgar paused, "I will arrange for the Librarian to conduct secret psychological evaluations and psychic guidance for Gaius regularly.
This matter must remain absolutely confidential, known only to you, me, and the Librarian.
The Grey Knights Chapter, especially Captain Moreno, must never know."
Gorden immediately understood the Chapter Master's profound intention—this was to secretly help Gaius, and at the same time, to seize the initiative and prevent the Grey Knights Chapter from making an issue of it.
He felt the Chapter Master's weighty trust and painstaking efforts.
"Mission accomplished, Chapter Master! Not a single detail will be leaked!"
"Go," Chapter Master Calgar waved his hand, "Remember, Sergeant Golden, we are now walking a tightrope.
On one side is the camaraderie and trust of a comrade, on the other is the greater good of the Imperium and immeasurable risks.
Balance them well."
Gorden saluted, then left with a heavy heart but full of determination.
He knew that in the days to come, the Second Squad and he himself would face unprecedented trials.
...
In the medical bay, Lina secretly slipped in again when Thor wasn't paying attention.
She sat on a small chair by Dorian's bed, took out her data-slate, and softly read a storybook about the history of Macragge—this was part of her recent literacy practice.
She read haltingly, occasionally having to stop to sound out words, but her expression was exceptionally serious.
She believed that Lord Dorian would surely hear, and that these stories would give him strength.
As she read a passage about a great victory of the Ultramarines in ancient times, she seemed to see Dorian's empty gaze, which had been fixed on the ceiling, very slightly, almost imperceptibly… turn a millimeter towards her.
Lina's voice stopped, she held her breath, and watched with wide eyes.
Yes! Although the movement was minimal, his eyeball did move! It was no longer completely unfocused, staring straight up!
"Lord Thor! Lady Luna!" Lina jumped up excitedly, running out of the ward to call for them, "Lord Dorian… his eyes moved!"
This tiny change, like a spark cast into the heavy darkness, though faint, represented the tenacious power of life and hinted that the long coma might soon take a turn for the better.
...
Meanwhile, in a distant, unknown star system, the dilapidated Night Lords' assault boat was docked deep within a derelict asteroid belt for covert maintenance.
Jerrison Fall was smugly modifying the Ultramarines Champion's Power Axe he had "acquired," attempting to adapt it to his own fighting style.
Humming an off-key tune, he boasted to his companions, "See that? The craftsmanship! The balance! The Ultramarines Chapter may not be good at other things, but they certainly spare no expense on their gear!"
A Night Lords warrior looked at the finely crafted weapon, which seemed out of place in their surroundings, and said helplessly, "Boss, shouldn't we consider where to go next? We can't keep hiding like this, can we?"
Jerrison stopped, stroking his chin: "What's the rush? The universe is vast, where can't we go? But… speaking of which, I wonder how that fat guy is doing… Tsk, I saved his life, and I didn't even get a thank you.
What a waste, what a waste…"
He said this, but a subtle, complex emotion, at odds with his cruel reputation, flashed in his eyes.
Perhaps, for him, a Night Lords warrior struggling to survive in darkness and betrayal, the act of saving an "enemy" itself represented something not entirely extinguished, something he himself was unwilling to admit.
The embers were not extinguished, neither light nor darkness.
Gaius' internal struggle, the Chapter Master's heavy decision, Dorian's faint response, and even Jerrison's elusive motives… all were surging like undercurrents, foreshadowing a future path still full of variables and challenges.
The post-training fatigue enveloped Gaius like a heavy cloak.
Dragging his weary body, he was on his way to the mess hall when he coincidentally met Luna, who had just come out of the Tech-Armory, and Lina, who seemed to have been waiting for them, clutching a doll and a figurine.
The little girl's eyes were sparkling, clearly still immersed in the joy of Dorian's improved condition.
"Lord Gaius! Lady Luna!" Lina ran up, holding out the new doll, a replica of Dorian, as if presenting a treasure, "Lord Dorian's eyes moved today!
Lord Thor said it's a very good sign!"
Luna's cold electronic eyes swept over Lina, and she gave a slight nod in response.
She looked at Gaius, seeming to notice the undisguised fatigue and a trace of lingering tension in his brow, but did not ask further, merely stating calmly, "Overtraining will affect reaction speed, which is counterproductive."
Gaius managed a smile, ruffling Lina's hair: "That's good news.
I hope he gets better soon."
He tried to make his tone light, but the hoarseness in his voice betrayed him.
The three naturally walked side-by-side towards the soldiers' mess hall (Lina, as a Tech-Adept's assistant, also had the appropriate clearance).
The corridor was brightly lit, and occasionally busy Tech-Priests or crew members passed by.
Lina chattered about what she had seen in the medical bay and the stories she had heard, trying to dispel the low pressure around Gaius.
Luna occasionally concisely corrected logical or historical inaccuracies in Lina's stories, while Gaius listened distractedly, fragments of those whispers still subtly stirring in his mind, clashing with the mundane scene before him.
Just as they were about to turn a corner leading to the main mess hall passage, the light ahead suddenly seemed to dim.
A tall, silver-grey figure, exuding a cold chill, as if coalescing from the shadows, silently blocked their path.
That ornate and deadly silver armor, those rotating cold ocular lenses, the eagle-beak helmet slightly raised, and the undisguised scrutiny and oppressive presence directed at Gaius—it was Grey Knight Captain Moreno.
Gaius' heart sank, the fatigue from training instantly replaced by cold alertness.
He stopped.
Almost simultaneously, the two branching passages behind and to the side were also blocked by two other silver-armored giants.
Behind him was Valerius, who had fought alongside Gaius but was also full of suspicion towards him; his stance was equally wary, his hand seemingly casually resting on his hammer hilt.
Appearing in the side passage was another Grey Knight, whose name Gaius remembered as Kaldor; his psychic pressure, though not as intense as Moreno's, was certainly not to be trifled with.
The three paths were completely sealed off. A cold psychic barrier silently spread, isolating this area from the noisy ship corridor, creating a suffocating zone of silence. Occasionally, passing crew members would see this scene, their faces immediately paling, and they would quickly lower their heads and detour, not daring to look twice.
Lina's face turned pale with fright, and she instinctively hid behind Luna, her small hands clutching Luna's clothes and her doll. Luna's bionic eyes flickered rapidly, and she leaned slightly forward, shielding Lina and Gaius behind her, her cold gaze fixed on Captain Moreno.
"Captain Moreno." Gaius took a deep breath, trying to keep his voice steady, "What is the meaning of this?"
Moreno's voice came through his helmet, colder than the ship's air conditioning system, devoid of any human emotion: "Gaius. Based on the latest assessment, your contamination level has exceeded the controllable threshold. According to the internal ruling of the Grey Knights Chapter, you are now subject to mandatory containment with the highest authority. Abandon futile resistance and come with us."
Latest assessment? Internal ruling? Did Chapter Master Calgar know? Did Captain Angerthas know? Countless questions instantly flooded Gaius' mind, but as he saw Moreno's absolutely cold demeanor and the subtle encirclement formed by Valerius and Kaldor, he understood—this was not an order from the Chapter level; this was an 'overreaching' action by the Grey Knights! They were likely planning to act first and report later!
A cold despair instantly seized Gaius. What could he do? Fight three Grey Knights? On this ship? Regardless of the outcome, this itself would confirm his 'dangerously out of control' charge. The opportunity Chapter Master Calgar had fought for him, the trust of his brothers… everything could be destroyed because of this.
A heavy sense of powerlessness surged like a tide, almost drowning him. In his mind, the insidious whispers seemed to begin stirring again, tempting him to use that forbidden power… No! Absolutely not!
His shoulders slumped, his clenched fists slowly relaxed, and a look of resigned defeat flashed in his eyes. He glanced at Moreno, his voice dry: "…I understand. I'll go with you."
He took a step forward, seemingly preparing to surrender.
"No!" Luna suddenly spoke, her voice still flat, but with an undeniable firmness. She stepped forward, directly blocking Gaius and Moreno with her relatively slender body! "Chapter Master Calgar has given clear orders! Gaius is under the supervision of the Ultramarines Chapter! You have no right to take him!"
Moreno's visor turned to Luna, that cold gaze enough to break any mortal: "Tech-Priest Aisa. Your duties do not include interfering with Grey Knights Chapter affairs. Step aside. Otherwise, you will be treated as an accomplice."
"According to the Codex Astartes and the Ultramar wartime management regulations, before the Chapter Master issues a clear change of command, his orders take highest priority." Luna met Moreno's gaze without backing down, the data-slate in her hand seemingly a shield, "Your actions are unauthorized by the Chapter Master and procedurally illegal."
"The authority of the Grey Knights Chapter supersedes the regulations of secular Chapters." Moreno's voice took on an undeniable gravitas, "Final warning. Step aside."
The atmosphere instantly tightened to its extreme! Valerius and Kaldor also stepped closer, the psychic pressure making the air hum.
Gaius looked at Luna, who was blocking him, his heart pounding, and whispered: "Luna! Don't! They…"
His words were not yet finished!
Just as Moreno seemed about to lose patience and prepare to act personally!
Luna moved! But her target was not Moreno, but Kaldor, who was at the side passage entrance, his attention seemingly drawn by Gaius and Moreno!
She suddenly hurled the data-slate in her hand like a throwing weapon at Kaldor's face. This naturally couldn't cause harm, but it was enough to attract a moment of attention. At the same time, she pounced like a hunting leopard, throwing herself at Kaldor! She accurately struck the joint behind Kaldor's knee!
This sudden attack against a Grey Knight completely caught everyone by surprise!
Kaldor was caught off guard. Although Luna's strength was not enough to shake him, this insulting and distracting impact did make him sway slightly, and he instinctively reached out to block!
"Gaius! Run! Go find the Chapter Master!" Luna screamed with her loudest voice as she collided! Her voice even carried a hint of human emotional fluctuation, which she had never shown before, due to her urgency!
This momentary distraction and opening was enough!
Gaius' mind was almost blank, acting purely on instinct, as he suddenly rushed towards the small gap that appeared because Kaldor was hit!
"Insolence!!!" Moreno's furious roar rang out!
Almost at the same time Gaius moved, Kaldor had already stabilized himself. The humiliation of being attacked by an ordinary Tech-Priest instantly enraged him. He did not use his power weapon, but instead raised the psychic restraint gun equipped on his arm!
A distorted, non-lethal psychic shockwave targeting the biological nervous system instantly shot out, accurately hitting Luna, who had just completed the collision and hadn't had time to dodge!
"Ugh!" Luna's body suddenly stiffened, all her movements instantly stopped, the light in her bionic eyes flickered rapidly then dimmed, and her entire body fell backward like a broken puppet, crashing heavily onto the cold deck, losing all consciousness, motionless. Only her slightly rising and falling chest proved she was still alive.
"Luna!!!" Gaius turned back and saw this scene, his eyes splitting with rage! But he couldn't stop! Luna had created this sole opportunity for him with her own body, and he absolutely could not waste it!
He burst out with all his speed, sprinting madly down the side passage!
"Valerius! Get him!" Moreno ordered, then walked towards Luna, who was lying on the ground, seemingly to confirm her condition.
Valerius immediately chased after him like a silver lightning bolt! His speed was extremely fast, and the distance between him and Gaius rapidly shortened!
Gaius could hear the heavy and swift footsteps behind him getting closer and closer, and despair surged in his heart again! He couldn't outrun a Grey Knight!
Just as Valerius was almost reaching out to grab Gaius' neck!
Boom!
A larger, heavier silver-grey figure, like a steel mountain, descended from above, perhaps using an upper passage, landing precisely in the passage Gaius had just passed through, perfectly blocking the way between Gaius and the pursuing Valerius!
The heavy thud unique to Terminator armor made the entire passage tremble! Those incredibly thick shoulder pads, that iconic plasma cannon and assault cannon—it was Kazatoki, a Grey Knight Terminator under Captain Angerthas!
Kazatoki's massive body almost completely blocked the passage. He said nothing, simply turning silently to face the pursuing Valerius, his massive assault cannon slightly raised, adopting a defensive posture. His intention was clear—this way was blocked!
Valerius abruptly stopped, looking at his colleague blocking the path, his tone filled with shock and anger: "Brother Kazatoki! Why are you doing this?! Move aside! We are carrying out a purification order!"
Kazatoki's bionic eyes flickered coldly, his massive body unmoving, like a silent silver bulwark. He did not answer, but his actions themselves were the clearest answer.
This sudden turn of events not only stopped Valerius but also bought Gaius precious time! He took the opportunity to turn another corner, rushing with all his might towards the bridge command area, towards the Chapter Master's office!
…
A few minutes later, Chapter Master Calgar, having received urgent news, set aside the mountain of paperwork on his desk, his face as grim as ice, and, leading a squad of Honor Guard, rushed to the scene as quickly as possible.
What he saw was Luna Aisa lying on the ground, Lina kneeling beside her, her small face pale with fright, crying incessantly, trying to push her with her small hands. He saw Valerius blocked by Kazatoki's massive body, and he saw Captain Angerthas coldly confronting Captain Moreno!
Captain Moreno seemed to be trying to order Kaldor to go around Kazatoki and continue the pursuit, while Captain Angerthas stood in front of them. The Terminator Captain's low, rumbling voice, filled with unprecedented anger, echoed through the corridor:
"Moreno! Put away your weapon! Look what you've done?! Using a psychic restraint gun on an unarmed, uncorrupted Astartes Tech-Priest?! Is this what you call 'carrying out purification'?!"
Captain Angerthas' voice was even deeper and more terrifying with anger: "Our duty is to purge daemons! To protect the souls of humanity from the erosion of the Warp! Not to engage in baseless suspicion, coercion, or even slaughter against our own! Gaius may be special, but there is no concrete evidence of his corruption to date! The Chapter Master has made his decision! Your actions have severely overstepped your bounds!"
Moreno did not back down, responding coldly: "Captain Angerthas! Your mercy and hesitation may lead to greater disaster! Gaius' risk assessment has soared again! The Grey Knights Chapter's internal ruling…"
"Which internal ruling can override the authority of the Primarch's heir?! Which one allows you to act against their warriors and technical personnel on an ally's ship, without prior notice?!" Captain Angerthas sharply interrupted him, his power halberd striking the ground with a chilling thud, "Moreno! You are blinded by your hatred and fear of Chaos! Immediately cease your erroneous actions!"
Just then, Chapter Master Calgar's voice, full of authority and fury, boomed like thunder:
"Everyone, stop!"
All the Grey Knights, including Captain Angerthas and Moreno, instantly froze and looked at the Chapter Master striding towards them. Calgar's gaze first swept over the unconscious Luna on the ground and the crying Lina, the chill in his eyes almost able to freeze souls, then he looked at Moreno, his voice terrifyingly cold:
"Captain Moreno. I need an explanation. Immediately. Otherwise, I will not hesitate to 'invite' you and your squad off my ship under charges of 'invasion' and 'assaulting crew members'!"
The Chapter Master's wrath, like a tangible storm, instantly enveloped everyone. This sudden conflict had already escalated.