Chapter 116: Return to the Forge World
"The internal modification of the ruin has completed Phase Two," Ignis directed Joric's gaze across the cavern, detailing each advancement. "We have installed two standard-pattern plasma reactors in the southeast energy sector. They are fully integrated into the grid, output is stable, and total power capacity has increased by 400%. This is sufficient to support full-load operation of all current equipment and defense systems."
She continued, reporting on other system upgrades. "Life-support systems have achieved full-area coverage. Air circulation, temperature, and humidity control now meet Forge World standards for a forward outpost."
"The logistics depot has also been expanded. Per your approved manifest, we have stockpiled sufficient ammunition, power cells, and spare parts to sustain three thousand Skitarii Vanguard in high-intensity combat for six standard months."
"Regarding defense," her tone grew more solemn, "the external defense matrix is fully active. This includes four automated macro-cannon arrays covering all primary approaches, and a Void Shield layer capable of withstanding medium-intensity orbital bombardment. Internal critical nodes—such as the reactor zone, command center, and transit area—have been reinforced with independent shielding and blast doors."
Joric listened while simultaneously cross-referencing the data through his own sensors and a real-time link with the manufactorum's servo-skull.
He saw thick power conduits running along the rock walls, emitting a low, steady hum. Augmented Skitarii patrolled the perimeter, their dark-red robes solemn in the cold light. Mechanicus-pattern instruments and cogitators were arranged with orderly precision in the expanded space.
The ruin had truly been transformed from a simple archaeological find into a fully functional, heavily fortified forward base and research center.
"Efficiency is within expected parameters," Joric affirmed after Ignis finished. He then instructed, "Energy supply and defense upgrades are the necessary foundation. The focus of subsequent work must be the further optimization of the data-network architecture to enhance overall information processing capability."
"Understood, Magos. The upgrade protocols have been drafted and await your review," Ignis responded.
Having addressed the base's status, Ignis turned to the next phase. "Magos, regarding the return to Forge World Nexum. When do you plan to depart? What level of escort do you require?"
Joric's logic-core rapidly calculated the parameters.
Ascension to Magos was the objective, but the political environment of a Forge World, while less treacherous than Mars, was never simple. He needed to project sufficient power to match his impending status, but excessive military display could trigger unnecessary alarm.
"Prepare a shuttle. For the escort detail, you will personally lead a maniple of eight hundred Vanguard," Joric commanded.
This scale was optimal. It was a substantial honor guard, demonstrating the authority of a Magos-aspirant, yet not large enough to be construed as an invasion force. Having Ignis, a Skitarii Marshal, personally escort him further underscored the importance of the journey.
"Your will be done," Ignis acknowledged immediately. "The shuttle and escort will be ready within four standard hours."
"Execute," Joric's reply was concise.
Ignis saluted again, then turned and marched away with steady steps to deploy the forces. Her servo-skull drifted silently behind her, its red ocular light tracing a fluid path in the dim corridor.
Using the preparation time, Joric interfaced with the ruin's main cogitator, recalling the Ascension protocol report Ignis had sent earlier.
His logic-engine spooled up, reviewing every detail, parsing the potential motives of Fabricator-Magos Casper Vhorx, and assessing the likely reactions of the Forge World's internal factions.
Simultaneously, he began planning his specific steps upon arrival at Nexum: first, a formal audience with Archmagos Vhorx to present his report; then, the Ascension ceremony; and finally, the critical step—formally submitting the requisition for a Cruiser-class Forge Ship.
Every step required precise calculation. Any minor error could cause unnecessary delays or jeopardize the ultimate objective.
Four hours later, all was ready.
Joric and Ignis boarded the shuttle waiting on the ruin's external landing pad. Eight hundred elite Skitarii Vanguard were formed up in perfect ranks, boarding other transport craft in orderly silence.
The shuttle's engines roared with low, powerful thrust, spewing blue ion-streams as it lifted off, piercing the Death World's thin atmosphere and ascending toward the waiting frigate in orbit.
From the viewport, the desolate surface of the Death World shrank away, possessing a cruel, monotonous beauty.
The escort frigate in orbit revealed its massive form. It was a Mechanicus-pattern vessel, the great Cog Mechanicum emblazoned on its prow.
The shuttle docked smoothly in the frigate's hangar bay.
The airlock hissed open, and Joric's tall, dark-red form appeared in the connecting corridor. The metal deck resonated with his heavy steps, his power-pack emitting a low-frequency hum.
On the deck, red-robed Tech-Priests and ship's crew were lined up on either side.
In the rigid hierarchy of the Mechanicus, a Priest on the verge of Magos-hood, commanding independent military forces, held a status far above the rank and file.
The assembly maintained absolute silence, optical lenses and biological eyes lowered in the approved posture of submission to a superior.
Joric did not stop, nor did he scan the ranks.
He gave only the slightest, most precise nod of acknowledgment, then strode directly toward his reserved quarters, flanked by Ignis and a squad of elite guards.
Simultaneously, his logic-core seamlessly interfaced with the ship's data-network, silently accessing navigation parameters, warp-transit schedules, and the latest intelligence on power shifts and resource allocation within Forge World Nexum.
The ship's systems seemed to open to him naturally, data flowing like a loyal servant awaiting inspection.
"Set course. Target: Forge World Nexum. Maximum speed," he transmitted the order to the bridge via internal comms.
"Course confirmed, Magos. Estimated arrival: seven standard days," the Captain's response came back.
The engines of the Resolute Will surged with power. The massive vessel slowly reoriented, carving a path through the void before entering the translation point to the Warp, setting course for Nexum.
This return was not merely a debriefing and promotion; it was a critical turning point in his grand design.
Acquiring the rank of Magos and a Forge Ship would grant him the capital to operate and expand independently within the Warhammer universe, allowing for the efficient integration of resources from both worlds and advancing his exploration of dimensional technology and other cutting-edge fields.
The voyage had begun. The next step: to face the power structure and opportunities of the Forge World.
(End of Chapter)