Faithfull and the Damned; Shades of Loyalty

[Antaeus]

The figure was about fifty, sixty metres away. A torch light glowed from the barrel of its lasgun, the pale beam gently moving back and forth as its wielder slowly paced, leaves gently crunching under its boots. The soldier’s breath created small, white clouds in front of his face as his eyes stared into space.

He had no chance.

Corporal Moxiter, 22 Jaeger crept silently up behind his target, features covered by face scarf and hood, and grabbed the sentry by the throat. The man’s attempts to shout out, to break free from the Jaeger’s iron grip, were swiftly ended by the dagger that Moxiter drove into the side of his neck. The corpse went limp in his arms.

‘Lone Wolf One. One sentry down.’

‘Have that Wolf One. Moving up.’

Captain Antaeus led the rest of the ground force out of the treeline, almost invisible in their dark uniforms and body armour.

‘Rifles One and Two, take up positions.’

‘Moving.’ Phenton and Dwynan moved quickly, keeping low as they sprinted through the trees towards their firing positions above the target building.

‘Sabre One, Sabre Two. Prepare for drop.’

‘Sabre One, ready.’

‘Sabre Two, all set.’

‘Rifle One and Two, we’re in position.’

‘Drop Sabres, go!’


Sergeant Actaon slid down the rope, spiralling around it as he descended from the warm interior of the Valkyrie. The drop was long so that enemies on the ground would not hear the carrier’s powerful engines. Below, he saw two flashes of lasfire: the sentries outside the building, engaged by the Jaeger snipers.

‘Sabre teams, weapons free!’

There were three enemies on the roof, looking up as the steel ropes his the floor, but the Jaegers were upon them: hell carbines flashed and the soldiers hit the floor, lasguns clattering to the ground.

‘Roof, clear.’

‘External, clear.’

‘Ground teams moving into position.’

‘Attaching’

The two four-man Sabre squads ran to the edges of the roof, attaching metal hooks to the railings, which they then clipped onto their belts.

‘All attached, ready to go.’

The eight Jaegers abseiled down the side of the building. One Sabre halted above the large plate-glass window, Two Sabre descending further down to ground level.

‘In position.’

‘Rifle One and Two. Fire.’

Phenton and Dwynan opened fire on the waindow above which Sabre One were dangling, suspended by their ropes. The long-las blasts weakened the glass, causing splintering spiderweb-cracks to form all along the semi-transparent surface.

‘Go go go!’

The Jaegers swung back on their ropes, and then forwards, pendulum-like, into the glass, tossing grenades through as their boots crushed the window, spitting fragments onto the walkway on which they landed as they released the snap-locks on their ropes and raised their weapons, green targeting beams sweeping the dimly-lit train station interior. There were shouts from below as separatist troops scrambled for weapons, shielding themselves from the shards of glass. The grenades exploded, clouds of thick black vapour billowing from the split canisters and coiling around the soldiers as hell carbine fire spat down from the walkway.

[Colonel Jacka]

Thought For The Day

One assesses the situation and accumulates recourses.

Holy Terra,

General Jacka read the Data Slate just handed to him. “So Cypher has turned up again and why on Hagra III?” the General thought to himself. “What is this underground complex and why are the BoO so interested! We need to close this Campaign on Hagra III soon. Just so that we can see what this complex holds.”

Jacka entered the Lord Commander Militants Office by his secret entrance. The High Lord sat at his decks. He looked up as his Adjutant General approached; he reached his hand out for the data slate he could see in Jacka’s hand. He took it without comment and read. “Hmmmm, Hunters has gained a toehold I see and has been joined by our sometime allied Cypher. It is good to see that he has rounded up some loyal members of the Imperium to help us against the BoO as well.” Wu commenced.

“Matt we need more info on this Planet. I want to know about this complex. See what you can do to find out. Ohh! And tell Hunter to stay flexable. There may be a change to plans in the near future. Tell him don’t get comfortable on Hagra III.

Enciladus Hive

Imrador moved in the centre of a Squad of Ogryn’s. They had shown him no harm and they had moved of swiftly into the lower bowels of the hive. They soon approached two large well guarded doors. These swung open at their approached they moved into a huge room. Many Ogryn milled around, all well armed, but they parted as Imrador and the Squad moved amongst them. They soon came to a raised dais which had a single chair on it. Empty. They stopped in front of the dais. The Squad Leader went forward and moved through the screening curtains at the back of the dais. He heard discussion but could not catch a word.

The curtains parted.

Imrador smiled.

[Tanith Ghost]

"How long ago does it seem like that we enlisted?" Daur mused, during a lull in the fighting in his area." "Another lifetime, another life ago." Ben replied. The halfling sniper surveyed his surroundings by scope, noting all was quiet. "The best food indeed. It only seems like the best because I'm still alive to eat it." He chuckled, climbing down from his perch to make room for the next sentry. "Word is the new rations just coming in now will be better."
Dar said, drinking from his canteen. "Unless you heard it from the Throne itself, groxpies says I." Ben said derisively. "They kept telling us that in boot, and then on our first assignment." A sharp crackle brought both soldiers to attention as the vox operator
got command frequency online.

[Lord_Crull]

Naecolus watched the a squad of Eagle Claws being loaded back into a purple thunderhawk as the Eagle Claws moved forward in the snowy wind to reassemble on their transports.

They where in a ice courtyard with ranks of marines moving back on thunderhawks as other landers picked up rhinos and land raiders of the Eagle Claws to be transported back to their battle barge.

The space marines where a rapid strike force. They could fight a prolonged war but is was not a place best suited for their talents. The three were being loaded back on their thunderhawks to the fleet in orbit for an orbital strike if required.

[Colonel Jacka]

Thought For The Day

Thus they can die for him, live for him and not deceive him.

Enciladus Hive

The curtains parted.

Imrador smiled. Before him stood an old Ogryn, a scared face, yet strangely noble. He looked at Imrador and his eyes showed intelligence not associated with one of his kind. Imrador knew that this stereo type was not the true worth of the Ogryn. Imrador from his long experience was well aware that amongst the citizens of the Imperium the Ogryn was one of the most loyal of all. Imrador could see that this Bone Head had extensive augmentation. The Ogryn spoke. “He told me you would come. The Space Marine said you served with a friend of my people and those that are considered less then human, other Abhumans. He said that I should help you and you will help us to win back our freedom from those that have turned their face from the Emperor.” The Ogryn’s in the chamber murmured displeasure at these words. “I hope this is true!” the Ogryn continued. “My name is Jacob. I am a former Guardsman who was sent here to live in peace with the last of my Regiment. Yet they turned us into slaves. Most of those who came with me are now gone, those around you are their sons and daughters. But they are as loyal to Him as was their fathers. Who are you?” Jacob concluded.

“I am Imrador. An agent of Holy Terra.” The Ogryn’s commenced talk their voices growing louder; they became silent when Jacob raised his hand. Imrador continued, “I bring news that soon loyal members of the Guard will arrive. They will require your help in overcoming those that hold this planet. I trust that this help will be forthcoming. Without it they will be destroyed by the over whelming odds that face them here on Hagra III.”

“We will help you because the Space Marine helped us to find this place of hiding. He said to wait as your arrival would be soon, he also said that we would aided by our brothers. Are there more of our kind with your forces.” asked Jacob

“Aye, that there are!’’ Imrador continued,” and they are as fiercely loyal as you. They will soon arrive to engage your enemy. But you must arm and prepare for you must take this Hive so that the Imperial Forces can consolidate and move on to victory.”

“We had already joined you; you were just unaware of the fact.” Jacob said.

“I guess so!” replied Imrador, “I’m glad that you are with us then.” He was starting to like this old Warrior. “Well we need to talk about the coming attack.”

Jacob nodded and pointed to the curtain behind the dais indicating Imrador should join him.

Jacka’s Battle Group

“How long before you will be ready Stewart!” asked Jacka

“Ten hours maybe twelve.” replied the Squat Lt Colonel. “And you know Bill’s boys don’t like getting closed in. They will be cramped as well. We can only load 150 of them into three of the Moles and I will be putting a Company into the forth.”

“Hmmmmm,” commenced Jacka again. “This one will be tuff! Too many things can go wrong with a simultaneous attack like this one. Only one part has to fail and we all will be stuffed, especially those Troopers in your part of the attack. And if Cypher’s info is wrong and Imrador does not get the Ogryn’s and loyal IG on side then you will really be buggered.”

“Won’t be the first time Matt!” replied the Squat.

“Truth, Stewart, Truth!”

[Tsavong Lah]

Foulques ducked down behind a pile of shattered masonry as a Hagran shell exploded beyond. The flood of shrapnel caught his vox operator, spraying the man’s blood all over him, while he himself was left unscathed. Unmoved by it, he grabbed the device from the corpse and hugged the headset as close to his ears as he could. He had to take control of situation now, or his units were going to be overrun.

“Sixth Company,” He bellowed, “This is command what the hell is going on down there?”

“We have to pull back sir,” said the unit’s commander, “We can’t hold any longer. I have barely a platoon’s worth of effectives left.”

“Negative Captain,” he responded. “If you fall back, then the whole Battlegroup with be overrun.”

“Sir, we can’t hold!”

“You will stand your ground Captain!” he said. “I don’t care if you have to pull a fresh platoon out of your ass to do it!”

He slammed the headset down, cracking the casing but not doing any real damage to the inner components.

He let his anger subside before he peered over the masonry. Through his field piece he could see that the sixth company was fighting like mad dogs against the Hagran regiment that was advancing up the road. He felt a slight tightening in his chest as he noticed how little fire was coming from the fox holes. He tried to think of any help that he could send, but his guns were out of ammunition, his tanks were out of fuel, and his other infantry formations weren’t in any better shape.

“God Emperor,” he began to pray, “I need your help now.”

He slid back down behind cover, his energy leaving his body as the full weight of their situation overcame him and he slipped into despair. He couldn’t help but think that all was lost, and he bit down the urge to curse his commanding officer for putting him in this impossible position where so many of his comrades were being slaughtered.

But his prayers had not gone unheard.

A string of explosions emanated from where the sixth were fighting, and Foulques jumped up to his feet, fearing the worst. But instead of seeing the last of his men lying dead, he saw that the advancing Hagran column had been torn to shreds by an expertly placed artillery salvo. Within seconds, there was another volley, this one striking the enemy forces attacking the company defending his right flank.

One after another, the Hagran units that were advancing on him were stopped in their tracks by concentrated and sustained basilisk fire, grinding their entire forward momentum to a halt and driving back their leading elements. In the pause that followed, he made out fresh Corsican companies moving in to relieve his battered and wearied forces.

“You look tired Foulques.”

He turned around to see the thickly set yet not physical imposing form of Colonel Besseau striding towards him, flanked by Majors Kleist and Hillaire and a towering black armored Space Marine, adorned in such a way to signify his position as a commander of some standing.

He didn't respond.

Instead he just looked to heaven, arching an eyebrow.

[Antaeus]

Sergeant Actaon squeezed the trigger twice, sending two scarlet energy bolts into the mouth of the closest enemy. Next to him, Tonnme and Annmur’s hellguns flashed, pitching two more soldiers off the catwalk to tumble down to the platform below.

He glanced down, as the other four-man Sabre squad advanced across the train station platform, red lances spitting from their weapons and illuminating the dim interior with ruddy light.

He looked ahead: at the end of the catwalk stood a small office. Probably too small to keep the hostages in, but they had to clear the whole train station. He charged across the walkway, boots clattering as the three Jaegers with him followed suit, green tracking beams of their weapons sweeping the darkness. He unsnapped a black, cylindrical canister from his belt as Tonnme, releasing his hellgun and allowing the short-form weapon to snap to his chest by the elastic harness, raised his combat shotgun and levelled it at the window.

Tonnme pulled the trigger, the shotgun blast echoing through the abandoned train station. The window of the office spider-webbed, cracks spreading to the corners as Actaon threw the canister at the window. It smashed through the weakened pane, hitting the ground before opening, releasing a cloud of thick, black vapour. Actaon tore the door open as Tonnme and Annmur moved past him, weapons raised. From inside, sounds of coughing and choking could be heard as the choke gas invaded the lungs of the office’s inhabitants. From within, the throb of Annmur’s hellgun and two more loud shotgun discharges reached his ears.

‘Office one clear, no sign of hostages.’

‘Upper floor clear. Move down.’

-------------------------------------
Chastity looked up from the floor as muffled sounds reached down from above, penetrating the stone floors and walls of the train station down to the dark basement.

‘Hear that?’

Sergeant Burt twisted, straining to listen, his face twisting in pain as he tried to shift position with the minimum of discomfort.

‘Shaddap you two!’ The burly guard walked over to the curled-up Burt, and kicked him in the torso. The Gan-Haden soldier gave a gasp of pain, already broken ribs further splintering under the impact. Chastity’s face twisted into a grimace for a heartbeat, before settling again. There was no point in reacting, no point in protesting. It would only make it worse for both of them. The other guard, shorter and thinner, left eye a bionic replacement surrounded by a deep, dark-red gash, passed his las pistol from hand to hand.

The bigger guard turned his attentions to Chastity, saliva dripping from his grinning teeth.

‘Hearin’ fings naa, girlie? You fink you’re hearin’ stuff? Maybe ya friends comin’ to rescue ya!’ He laughed, spraying the stone floor with spittle. ‘No-one’s comin’ for ya here.’ He walked over to Chastity, and grabbed her by the back of the neck, pulling here face towards his as he crouched next to her.

‘Nobody can hear ya. Nobody can save ya.’ She could feel his breath on her face, gritting her teeth as she tried not to breathe in.

Burt lifted himself up on one elbow, and lashed out, booted foot connecting solidly with the side of the soldier’s face. He let go of Chastity, giving a bark of pain as he clutched at his eye.

‘Bastard! ‘Perial bastard!’

His colleague laughed, harsh and loud. ‘’Perial boy got ya, Jexxer, ‘perial boy got ya!’
Jexxer turned to his ‘friend’. ‘You laughin’ at? Laughin’ at me?’ He stood up, drew back his foot, and kicked Burt squarely in the face. There was a cracking sound as the injured Gan-Haden Sergeant’s nose gave way. He curled up again as Jexxer kicked him solidly in the side of the ribs, splintering more of the already damaged bones.

‘’Course I’m laughin’ at you! Stupid bastard.’ The other soldier’s grin seemed to shine in the dim light, the bionic eye glinting.

‘Next, ‘swhat you are!’ Jexxer stood up and crossed to the other soldier, throwing a punch as the other man stood up, catching the blow with his hand. They wrestled, snarling.

The sound of a bolt pistol shot stopped them in their tracks. A metre away stood a tall, lean figure, pistol smoking, green eyes below short, dark hair.

‘You two don’t stay on the job an’ you’ll be deader than these two. Understood?’

The two soldiers recoiled in fear. The newcomer looked down at the Imperial captives. His eyes lingered on the insignia on Burt’s shoulder. A smile split his face.

‘So. Gan-Hadens, are we?’ He knelt next to Burt, gripping the injured soldier’s face in his brown-gloved hand, moving it gently from side to side. ‘Come a long way to die, so you have. Traitors, following the wrong side.’

Burt stared back into the man’s eyes. ‘I’m not scared of you, heretic.’

‘Heretic?’ The man’s grip on Burt’s face tightened. Chastity looked at his clothing: a dark red trench-coat over brown fatigues, a Captain’s insignia on the shoulder of his tunic.

‘You’re a Gan-Haden too?’

The man kept his grip on Burt’s face, but turned to look at Chastity.

‘A Gan-Haden? No. That place is no longer my home. Not after my ‘leaders’ threw their lot in with aliens and mutants.’ He spat on the ground. ‘And your beloved Colonel Fishborne, noble leader, hero? No. A bastard pawn in the overthrow on humanity’s true destiny. The destiny which we will give it back.

The man rose, and strode out of the room. Chastity looked at Burt. ‘Who was he?’
‘Shaddap!’ Jexxer crossed to the window, looking out into the train station’s basement level. Outside, there were twelve, thirteen men in dark fatigues and carrying lasguns. The officer strode over to them, touching his neck – his comm.-bead, presumably. He paused, then looked at the nearest soldier.

Which was when the basement was rocked by an explosion. A blast of light emanated from the doorway up to ground level, throwing it off its hinges. The soldiers nearest covered their eyes and ears as the blast assaulted their senses. Chastity and Burt leapt to their feet, their chains jangling, as their two guards jumped up, fumbling for their weapons. The two men ran out of the office as shouts from their comrades reached them, flashes of scarlet lasfire lighting the basement level.


Melkor charged down the steps, halting to double-tap the hellgun’s trigger before completing his descent. Three more Jaegers were with him as they hit the basement level, firing their weapons into the disoriented enemy soldiers. He crouched, levelling his weapon, the green targeting beam aiding his aim as he fired off three more pairs of shots, as he had been taught by Sergeant Drasimene who now stood by him.

Return fire fizzed past him as he fired at an enemy hiding behind a metal crate. His shots glanced off, and he ducked behind a stone column as lasfire spat at him.
Melkor poked his head out again, and saw his quarry turn to flee, running for the far end of the train station. Four Troop should be covering that exit…but if they were late…Melkor ran after him.

‘Halt!’

The figure looked back, snapping opff two bolt pistol shots. Melkor ducked behind cover as another Jaeger joined him. The two elite soldiers charged after the escaping enemy, leaping over minor obstacles that littered his attempted escape route. He turned a sharp corner disappearing from view. They followed: an open door. The other Jaeger reached it first, sweeping the corridor with his tracking beam. Empty.

‘The hell…’ Melkor and his comrade advanced, weapons sweeping for some hidden exit.
Then Melkor saw what was behind the door. He swivelled as the figure’s bolt pistol roared. Three rounds blasted into the Jaeger next to him, two in the torso and one in the shoulder. The bolts detonated, blood spraying from the elite soldier’s wounds, his face hidden by his resp mask as he hit the floor with a heavy crunch.

The weapon trained on him, but Melkor ‘s weapon was readied, lined up. He double-tapped the trigger. He aimed lower than he intended: the rounds buried themselves in the man’s torso. He fell, pistol clattering top the ground, dark blood spilling from his wounds.

Melkor raised his weapon for the coup-de-grace. But stopped.

‘You. Utter. Bastard.’

The man looked up, gasping in pain.

‘What? Gonna kill me?’ He coughed. ‘Get on with it, whelp.’

‘Perhaps now you’ll see what I mean.’ Melkor crouched next to the dying man, and removed his resp hood and helmet. ‘Jaggerjack.’

The man’s eyes widened.

‘M..Melkor?’

‘Aye. Sir. Me.’ Melkor gripped his former commanding officer by the throat.
‘S…so. You’re a Jaeger, then? One of them?’
Melkor nodded. ‘And after someone said that I would never make something of myself. I think, sir, that I win.’
‘Congratu-gakking-lations.’ ‘Jaggerjack’, also known as Captain Dened Ankar, spat on the floor, spittled tinged with red. ‘Well. Most elite fighting force in the Imperial Guard or not, Melkor.’ He looked into his eyes. ‘You’re still a spineless bastard. A freak. A coward and a weakling.’
‘Fine words, sir, from a traitor to his God-Emperor.’ Melkor released his hellgun, and raised his autopistol.
‘Any more?’
Ankar stared into Melkor’s face. His lip quivered, but his eyes remained steady, breathing rasping.
‘Not to you.’
Specialist Herb Melkor, formerly 1st Gan-Haden Wilcards, now 22 Jaeger, pulled the trigger.

[Hooter Hunter]

Gunnery Sgt Eric Kittle cradled his shotgun on his lap as he scanned the walls of Enciladus hive. His regiment of Dragoons were assigned to the tip of the spear that was to charge into the city and secure the first few blocks in for the follow on infantry that would be tasked for taking the hive. He patted the quilted blanket of his mount out of habit more than anything else. He shook his head as he thought for the thousandth time of how he and his men must look more like a warrior from an obscure feudal world than one of the best equipped soldiers or the Imperial Guard. The padding had worked out better than planned though as it served to not only protect the horses from the cold, but the insulation also reduced their heat signatures and had allowed the Dragoons to sneak up on the Hagrans on more than one occasion.

Now he and his company waited with the rest of the regiment for the signal to attack. Eric brought his binos up to his eyes and scanned the wall yet again, even with all his padding he was beginnig to feel the chill begin to set in and he was itching for some action to warm his blood up. Then he saw a flash flash from the top of the curtain wall. he panned back to the right and then saw it again, three flashes. The signal had been sent. "Ok boys thats what we've been waitin fer, " he said into his microbead. "Lets go!" Eric spurred his horse on knowing that his company and the rest of the Dragoons were with him.

********************************************

General "Wild" Bill Kittle nodded when he recived the message that the Dragoons were in motion and the Infantry were moving up as well. "Emperor and Saint Pius protecte them," he prayed for both his sons.

********************************************

Captain Russell Kittle recieved word of the attack moments after his father. "Okay boys lets saddle up, as soon as the Astartes have cleared out the ack ack batteries we will goin and help them clear out the upper hive and hopefully meet up with my lazy brother." His troops laughed at his joke as they scrambled aboard their valkyries.
*****************************************

The initial charge had suceeded beyond Erics wildest expectations. The Loyalists had fully opened three gates. The regiment had divided in to three seperate units to better take advantage of the situation. They had charged into the streets of the hive to the cheering of the crowds of Imperial citiizens who were tired of the opression the BoO had leveled on them. Within minutes they were aided by several squads of Adeptus Arbites who had remained loyal and were now clearing the streets. Within an hour they had captured all of their objectives. Eric decided to press the advantage keep going.

Thats when the BoO controlled forces in the area had began to put up a fight. They had by now had time put up barricades that were high enough that the Dragoons couldnt jump them and overrun the position, and had to get off their mounts and fight on foot.

Eric racked the slide on his shotgun and leaned aroundthe corner and pummped out two rounds then ducked back behind the wall of the deli that his squad was using for cover. They had been stuck in this position for nearly ten minutes. What they had thought were a few BoO milita had turned out to be an entir company comlpete with heavy weapons. Now his squadron was completely pinned down. "Pius help us," he muttered. "You know of any way around this?" he asked the Arbite that was acting as his guide.

"Sorry Sarge but the damned heretics have us pinned well now and I just heard on my comms that they were moving into a flanking position," the Arbite answered.

"Bugger me running!" Eric cursed. He refilled his shotgun with fresh ammo and racked the slide to chamber a fresh round. Eric then pushed one last round into the tube. Just as he was about to lean out and fire at the enemy he heard the BoO forces screaming, yelling and firing wildly on full auto, but none of it was coming his way. Eric cautiously began to look around the corner and saw tha barricade completely abandoned. "Ok boys lets see whats up."

Carefully he and his men began to stalk towards the now abandonded barricade weapons at the ready. The firing died down and silence descended over the streets. Eric gave the signal to for his men to stop and get ready to charge. Thats when a hulking form began to take form in the smoke, then another and another until nealy a platoon of Ogryns had climbed over the barricade weapons at the ready. "Lower yer weapons boys," Eric called out to his men," their friendly."

The Ogryns stopped as they saw the Carolonians lower their weapons. The Bone 'Ead stepped forward. "Sorry we are late, but we ran into some folks that thought we shouldnt be carrying weapons."

"Sowhat did ya'll do about it," one of the Dragoons asked with a knowing grin.

"We convinced them otherwise," the Bone' Ead replied with a giant grin. "I am Sgt Shemp Hamfist at your service."

"Gunney Sgt Eric Kittle," Eric said as he stuck out his hand in greeting.

The Ogryn paused before taking the smaller mans hand in his giant one. "Sorry for the hesitation, but we dont see much kindness around these parts."

"Well yer with us now," Eric said with a grin. "Wanna see if the deli here has anything not ruined or with to many bullets in it?"

[Hooter Hunter]

Empty space, region unknown

Carolonian General Robert Eddard Leigh knew he was far away from his beloved Carolon and her Redwoods when they cam out of the warp and there were no recognisable stars. He knew that he was in the middle of nowhere when he looked out the viewport and saw that even the brightest stars were only faint glimmers many light years away. Quite simply there was nothing where his ship had emerged, absolutely nothing. Well there had to be somethinghere to draw the Squat ship out of the warp.

"You'll see soon," the Captain said with a knowing grin.

Soon was three hours later when Leigh boarded a shuttle that was to take him to the asteroid that inhabited this empty part of space. The asteroid was overfive miles long and three wide, and it rolled slowly as it tumbled through space, heading wherever it was going. "Welcome to His Legacy, General," the Squat captain said as he piloted the Aquila lander into a gaping cavern that seemed to go on forever. "This is the main landing bay as you can tell. It goes some two miles into the rock and will have a fe twists and turns where we can defend against unwanted interlopers. The main Command and control structure is in the heart of the asteroid which masks all electronic signals from getting out. Now of course we have plenty of passive and active sensors to let us see just what is going on around us, as well as the beacon which drew us here."

Leigh just nodded as he was told about the wandering base that was to be his new command. He swore he saw several protrusions in the rock that could only be gun emplacements. Smiling he approved of the usual Squat workmanship and knew that besides sensors the asteroid bristled with weapons and a warp drive of Squat manufacture.

The Aquila settled gently as it touched down on the landing pad. The welcomin commitee was there and promptly came to attention ad nsaluted when Leigh walked down the ramp. Leigh gave one of his sloppy return salutes and set the men at ease. "General it is a pleasure to meet you,I am General Boris Ivanovich Romanov. I will be responsible for your breifing and introduction to His Legacy," a Valhallan in full dress uniform said as he extended his right hand. Leigh was unsurprised to receive the ususal Samothracian grip. "Lord Militant Wujen and General Jacka have given you a great recomendation for this post."

"Ah dont believe a damned thing those two tell ya," Leigh joked as he shook the hand of Romanov. "So just what is the purpose of this floatin hunk of rock?"

"Its better to show you than tell you," Romanov said as he began walking towards the grand entry hall. "As you know the Samothracian order was ordered into existance by the Emperor himself when he saw the greed and powermadness that the High Lords of Terra were beginning to show, even in those early days. They care less about the reunification of man and the advancement of the Imperial Creed than about personal wealth, comfort and the new faux religion. They became so powerful so fast that even He dare not stamp them out, so he created us to counter them, but the Horus Heresy was upon the Imperium before we could become a power unto our own."

"Yes I have been well versed in the history," Leigh confimed.

"Then as you know He could have been revived many years ago, but those who control access to the Golden Throne have denied the Imperium our true leader," Romanov continued. " I have been told now that it is to late, and that we must await His rebirth as the Starchild. In the beginning ,after we were shut out of His presence we began to gather His Holy relics to prepare for His return," Romanov placed his hand on a palm scanner that read his palmprint and opened a set of large blast doors. "I think that this room will answer all of your questions."

Leigh entered the chamber, his jaw nearly dropping open as he looked around dumbfounded. There were items that were 10,000 years old and had not been seen by the general Imperium, and then there were items of legend. Leigh made the sign of the Aquila and walked over to the glass that protected a bayonet, not much different than those used by contemporary guardsmen. "Is this?"

"Yes that is indeed the bayonet that Saint Pius used to stab Horus and distract him long enough to save the Emperor," Romanov said in a reverent whisper.

Leigh continued to walk through the gallery. He saw many more holy items, the very Redwood bench that He sat on while in the great forrests of Carolon, His cloak, and then in the last case stood a suit of gilded armor with a golden sword on a stand next to it. The suit was ornate and ingraved with many Imperial Icons and eagles, and on the left arm was attached a beautiful powerclaw. "Is that?"

"Yes it is, " Romanov nodded reverently. "It is rumored that the suit was melted down and placed in the Crux Terminatus on tactical Dreadnaught armor, but in reality there are more than 1,000 chapters and if each chapter has 25 suits then you do the math. This suit couldnt provide nearly enough, so we propogated that myth. But here is the true wealth that we guard." Romanov lead Leigh to the final section of displays. In them were volumes of books. They were bound in exquisite leather, some were opened to reveal a very delicate and neat penmanship. "These are His personal writings, some are His personal journals, some are discriptions fo various worlds He has visited, but the most valuble of all are His laws set down by His own hand."

"If the BoO or others were to find out about this," Leigh said in wonder.

"That is why we take such pains to make sure they never do," Romanov nodded gravely. "So what do you think of you new command?"

"It is an honor I aint sure I deserve."

"Belive me if you werent the best man for the job you would never have been picked," Romanov replied with a grin as he lead Leigh to the vault door. "Now lets grab a bit to eat and get you settled in. We have some great Rattling Chefs and an Ogryn that makes the best brew ever. I think you may know his nephew."

[Antaeus]

Jemere Hunter sat down at her desk, leaning one elbow against the hard redwood top. The varnished surface reflected the afternoon sunlight that streamed in through the open window. She could see the edge of the forest, the towering trees clad in their green summer leaves.

But she was confined, trapped. There was work to be done, and Jemere Hunter was nothing if not a worker. No matter how much she wanted to take a walk in the shade of the redwoods, feel the soft grass beneath her feet and the warm rays of the sun upon her face, there were numbers to be balanced, finances to be updated. With a sigh, she picked up the nearest data slate, long fingers gripping the smooth metal plate, and slipped it into the receiver of the computer. A clicking sound, then the display screen activated, blue with dark green lettering. Numbers scrolled across the screen, the latest internal market reports on her husband's businesses.

She thought of her husband, wherever he was now. Alive or dead, out there, somewhere on the other side of the Imperium, leading the Emperor's armies against His enemies. A good man and an awful one. A good father and a good husband – when he was with you. Such was the way on Carolon: men frequently took more than one wife, and Antony Eddard Hunter supported them all more than willingly. But she had needed more. She had needed solace, a companion when her husband was away, be it in battle or with another of his wives. And in Colonel Dutch Fishborne, Jemere Hunter had found that solace.

Where was Dutch? Still by her husband's side, his loyal comrade? The Gan-Haden soldier had been a relief, a release, a chance for once to break free of her responsibilities as a mother and...what? A glorified secretary?

She shook her head. No. She meant much more to him than that.

'I am his wife.' She nodded. 'The wife of a good man. And I will wait for him.'

'Unfortunate.'

The voice was cold, measured, chilling. Her muscles tensed but something stopped her from turning.

'Very good. It would have been unwise, Jemere Hunter. Very unwise indeed.'

Her lips shook, jaw unsteady and sweat beading the back of her neck. She took a deep breath.

'Who are you?'

'I?' A pause. 'My name is not important. What difference would it make to know by what name I call myself?' Another pause. 'In another universe, one where your husband was all that he seemed, you would know my name already.'

Jemere swallowed. 'My husband?'

'Aye. The great Antony Hunter, 26th Carolon Guards. Fine tactician, inspirational leader of men...and black-hearted heretical liar.'

'Heretical?' Jemere's throat was dry, her forehead and palms now coated in sweat.

'You never really did know him, did you?' Soft, almost silent footsteps behind her as the intruder began to pace. He used you, as he does all women. I remember. I thought nothing of it at the time. Your world, your customs. What business was it of mine how my friend and comrade lived his private life What did I understand of...intimacy, love, marriage or any of these things?' A pause. 'But now I see that, like me, he has taken what he wanted from you, and left.'

'He hasn't left anyone!'

'Then what has he done to you? Used you for his pleasure and discarded you.' A short bark of laughter. 'Perhaps you should be grateful, though. When your husband finishes with people, he is not always so merciful. So nice as he has been with you.'

Hands shaking, eyes watering, Jemere fought to control her breathing. 'What do you mean?'

'Turn around.'

For a second she did nothing. 'What?'

'Turn around. Face me.'

Jemere gritted her teeth, swatting at her eyes with her hands before turning. She looked at the man who stood there, her breathing quickening even more.

He was tall, lean, tight-fitting dark clothes suggesting a lean, muscular frame. A cloak, the hood lowered, was worn over his bodysuit, hanging from his shoulders like a matt-black shadow. In his left hand was a long-barrelled bolt pistol, pointed at the floor. On his right cheek was a black aquila tattoo, the left cheek covered with a patchwork of scars.

'Who...'

'If you truly wish to know, I see no harm in it now.' The figure raised his head. 'My name is Jagdus Dashor. I fought alongside your husband for several years. Before he betrayed me and my comrades, killing them and leaving me for dead.'

Ice water seemed to plunge through Jemere's veins. She forgot to be afraid. 'He wouldn't do that. Not to a friend.'

'Friend?' Another sharp laugh. 'Your husband's idea of friendship is malleable, Jemere Hunter. Very malleable indeed. I called him that once, and he called me the same. And do you know what the difference was, Jemere Hunter?'

Jemere shook her head.

'I was sincere. I truly counted him as a trusted colleague, a servant of the Emperor, a good man as well as a good leader. But then, he had me killed.' Jagdus Dashor's nose wrinkled in disgust. 'Or so he thought.'

'He wouldn't...he's not like that.'

'We are all people of parts and facets, Jemere Hunter.' Dashor paced the room, pistol still lowered, footsteps soft on the wooden floor. 'Actors, performing different parts for different people. You have only seen one of Antony Eddard Hunter's aspects, whereas I' he turned, steely eyes gazing into hers, causing an urge to flinch 'I have seen them all. The charismatic general, beloved of his troops. The generous friend, open-hearted and welcoming.' The eyes darkened. 'And the callous, scheming, calculating murderer that he showed himself to be.'

Can it be true? Again, Jemere shook her head. 'No. That isn't him.'

Dashor paused for a moment. Then he nodded.'Then you are resolute. Perhaps that is for the best. That you remember him for the good man that you thought him to be. That I once thought him to be, a long time ago.'

He raised his pistol.

Jemere's eyes closed, teeth chattering as she tried to keep her muscles under control. 'How can you...kill me for something you think my husband did?'

'Sometimes in life, Jemere Hunter, it is the end that justifies the means. Exitus acta probat.' The pistol clicked. Her breathing sped up, sweat drenching her back and palms as her eyes opened, darting to the door.

'Don't bother trying to run, Jemere Hunter. There is dignity in accepting your fate.'

Tears welled up in her eyes, clouding her vision Where was Antony? Where was Dutch? Where were any of them, when she needed them here and now?

She swallowed, swiping away the tears from her eyes, and directed her gaze straight back into the cold eyes of Jagdus Dashor. He held her gaze, before his head gave a tiny nod.

'You are a brave one, Jemere Hunter. And I am truly sorry that it has come to this. In another life...but this is the life that the Emperor has given us. The hand that He has dealt us, in accordance with His designs.'

Hand shaking, eyes threatening to well up, Jemere Hunter still held the gaze of the assassin. Her lips parted one more time.

'Emperor damn you for this, Dashor.'

'If He should so wish, Jemere Hunter, then that damnation is already mine.'

The pistol's report was muffled by the redwood paneling.

[Hooter Hunter]

Ice caves, Hagra III

Hunter walked down the corridor carved from the ice. He smiled as he appreciated the handy work of the Squats who had carved thisover ten thousand years before. He reflected that many Imperial commanders wouldnt leave their HQ when an attack this big was going off, bu he was confident in his commanders and trusted their judgement. Also he had recived and urgent message from Angel that she needed to talk to him about a matter of the utmost import.

He lit a cigar as he rounded the corner that led to the room which had until recently been silent for nearly 10,000 years. Now it was a buzz of activity with numerous Enginseers, tech adepts as well as the Adeptus Astartes who were ensuring the security. Hunter stood in amazement of the ancient artifact that rested on an ermine pillow in a glass case in the center of the room. Around it stood five Astartes of the Eagle Claws chapter, all armed and no doubt ready to kill for the artifact. In the corner Hunter recognised the ancient colors of the Thousand Sons Astrtes that had guarded the relic for the past 10,000 years. Hunter grinned as he could nearly feel the tension between the two groups.

Hunter walked past the Eagle Claws and to the casing holding the artifact that had only hours before been encased in ice. He leaned over and examined it, he puffed his cigar and shook his head in mild disapointment. It was just a golden circlet, made to fit a mans head. Hunter had no doubt that the unglamorous circlet was designed for none other than the Emperor Himself, probably even made by Him. Still it was simple and unimpressive.

"Quite beautiful isnt it?" Angel asked from his side as she join the Carolonian General.

"I've seen better on beauty pagent winners," Hunter shrugged his shoulders as he answered.

"Always blunt arent you?" Angel asked with a smile.

"Well what the hell is it?" Hunter asked as he straightened up to his full height.

"This was designed by the Magnus the Red to augment the powers of psykers," Angel replied reverntly. "He designed it before he knew of the betrayal by Horus. It as to be his gift to his father the Emperor upon the end of the Great Crusade. Magnus bid me to hide it from all, so I hid it here. Now that it has been uncovored I must take it elsewhere and hide it again."

"When do ya leave?"

"Soon as your forces have secured Enciladus Hive."

Hunter puffed his cigar and nodded his head. "What about them?" he inclined his head towards the Thousand Sons.

"They will come wth me and the relic," Angel replied. "If they were to be discovered there are powers in the Inquisition that would scour this entire world for it, as well as declare you and your forces Excomunicadus."

"I understand," Hunter nodded. "I expect that the Hive will be secured in about..." Hunter paused for a moment as a strnge feeling passed over him. It was a feeling of loss as if a part of him had just been ripped away. He staggered on his feet and took a ragged step forward before regaining his balance.

"Are you okay?" Angel asked with concern in her voice. She opened her mind ad she knew the disaster that had befallen Hunter, it would be many days yet before he knew, and she hoped to be away before he found out.

"Yeah just got a lil dizzy," Hunter lied. "Anyway the Hive will be secured in five days or so."

"Maybe you should lay off the cigars," Angel saidwith a ruefull grin. "they are not good for you you know."

Hunter just gave her a dirty look as he walked back out into the corridor and headed back to his HQ.

[Colonel Jacka]

Thought For The Day

The essential quality of the all-victorious military is that it has no fixed form!

Jacka's Chimera 20 Kms from Enciladus Hive

Jenk's had just handed a data slate containing a message from Conner saying that he had breeched the hive and that they had joined up with the the Loyalist forces. They had then commenced their advance to join Kittle's Forces. The Chimera was empty while Jenks attempted to make one of Bill's Brew's. Jacka felt oddly out of it as his largely Mech formation was, at this point, left out Battle awaiting the outcome of the multiple simultaneous attack. The sounds of battle reached him as the Orphan's Artillery Company supported the fire plan for the attack. But the rest of the Orphan's would have to wait it out.

"You seem pensive Colonel!" a voice behind Jacka spoke. He turned startled, to find Sgt Pius looking at him.

"You! How the hell you get here? You should be with Dutch right now." Jacka commenced.

"I am Colonel, but I have a message for you." Pius said ignoring the comments of Jacka. "Hard times are coming for Gen Hunter. He will need your support if he is to get through. Without your help all that Hunter and we have achieved so far may be undone. Stand by him and make him understand that the needs of many will out-way his own needs and that he will need to be strong to resist the temptations soon to be placed before him. His thirst for revenge must be dampened" Pius looked at Jacka with an earnest expression. "Do you understand Colonel."

"No, but I'm sure I will. Bugger it!" Jacka replied as he heard a noise on the Chimera ramp.

"Here's you Brew Boss! Who was on the radio? I heard you talking. Anything I should know?" Jenks said passing the cup to Jacka who turned to find that he alone sat in the vehicle.

Jacka looked uneasy but spoke, "Nothing Aron, Nothing, just idle voice traffic nothing more!"

[fishborne]

"Jaeger one Jaeger one, this is royals, sit rep over." alec deleon repeated into his vox mic, he had been trying to hail them for several minutes with no avail. Dutch had told him to continue trying on the secured frequencies they used until something got through.

"...yals, this i... ger one, package..." static made the transmission fade in and out, apparently the hagrians had some sort of jamming device that made long distance vox difficult to say the least.

"throne finally..." alec breathed, grabbing the attention of fishborne sitting next to him in the command chimera. After filing mountains of paper work captain winfield of the logistic seventh company made planetfall and took over the pencil pushing side of things. His attendant, scribe threius was told to accompany the regimental command squad in order to "properly quote any adventures colonel fishborne might embark on and assist him with his paperwork." and he had also brought along with him a servo skull (dutch couldn't remember the name even if he wanted to) to take over when the fight got too intense for him to narrate.

Dutch hated servo skulls. They reminded him of rich fat old men back home that couldnt do anything for themselves. But Captain Winfield was connected to some important rich fat man that held alot of sway in gan-hadens senate. Powerfull enough to make his nephew a captain in the guard, but not powerful enough for a major or colonel. So his "recommendations" were almost always brushed over. But for some reason he was persistent about having them follow fishborne around.

"Jaeger one repeat over."

""...yals, pac.. safe. I repea... kage safe. Two friendlies... ing home.. ver."

Colonel fishborne clasped alecs shoulder in joy when he heard the good news. He told alec to transmit the messege around the regiment as he opened the top hatch to get a look at his surroundings. Cold wind buffeted him as he opened the top hatch, so he placed his skull rebreather back on.

Idling a few hundred meters back from the front lines, dutch looked through his binoculars to see the progress his men were making. The hagrians had somehow dug another trenchline and were beginning to reinforce it when the wildcards got there; so it was stalling their momentum again. To his extreme left flank he could barely make out the valhallens of task force falcon with their camouflaged tanks running into the same problem.

Then a flash of bright white light erupted from behind the valhallens and the wildcards. Dutch followed it to the source thinking an artillery truck was blown but was met by a stunning sight instead.

The 14 Makian. The entire regiment was in a crescent formation marching through the wildcard positions and falling mercilessly onto the panic stricken enemy. Hagrians were familiar with the fourteenth. They had fought alongside them in the first hagra war against chaos, then were trained to a high standard after. Having what the Makians considered friends suddenly turn their backs upon everything they fought years for and built up sent them into a berserk on the field. Troops would be hit several times by lasrounds but just pick themselves up off the frozen tundra and rejoin the line bloodied brusied but still with fight in them.

In the midst of the group the source of the white light marched proudly with his golden banner waving in the breeze. St. Pius reborn shouted encouragements to his fellows as a brilliant halo played about his head. Wherever his swordhand pointed hagrians would fall down clutching their guts and vomit violently until the men of the fourteenth put them out of their misery.

Dutch brought his sight back to the hagrian line in time to see several company size units break off from fighting him and advance over to almost open flank the advancing makians. The remaining enemies were trying despreattly to plug the gaps that were being left, and thats when fishborne saw his opening. Dutch rushed back into the chimera almost ripping his mask off to get the message out as if it were holding him back.

But for a few moments the next words wouldnt escape his mouth, for a very strange and sudden uneasy feeling washed over him. It was like someone invaded his soul with ice cold fingers and plucked a part of him away, never to return back. He slumped there for a second, dumbfounded and on the verge of tears for some unknown reason before seeing the curious faces of his command squad stare back at him.

"I..." fishborne started, but shook it off after a moment. "all companies advance. Catch them while they're stumbling. Protect the flank of the makians."

He then sat down on the metal bench bolted into the hullof the chimera trying to gather his wits about what just happened.

later,
fishborne

[Colonel Jacka]

Thought For The Day

Because you have taken the measure of things, you know their true weight.

Enciladus Hive

Sgt Shemp Hamfist eat slowly with Sgt Eric Kittle. He still could not believe how the man he found, Imrador, had brought news he had waited for many years. He had at last been told that he and his fellow Ogryn’s would be free. Several hours ago, he had stood with Jacob and Imrador at the RV watching as strange drilling machines broke through the Hive floor. He was even more surprised when they disgorged many fellow Ogryn. He had never seen their like. They were fit, well armed just like any Guardsmen and accompanied by Squats who were there also to fight by his side. And fight they did, the Hagrans had not known what hit then. They had fought until they met with these mounted warriors he now ate with. Shemp smiled he could smell freedom and these strange warriors would help him keep it.

“Ok you lot lets get moving we have to link up with the other assaulting forces. Let’s get moving you know how impatient LT Col Conner gets!” Commissar Vorhee’s spoke as he moved among the motley force that had just taken the Hagraian position.

“Guess that’s us as well good luck Shemp!’’ Eric said as once again he shoke the hand of the Ogryn.

“May Pius be with you Sgt Kittle!” replied Shemp.

Eric looked at the Ogryn before him and said, “And you Sgt Hamfist!”

They moved out to join their units and the fight continued.

[Hooter Hunter]

101st Air Assault Regiment, Alpha Company, approachin Enciladus Hive

Lt Garris Hunter rechecked the bullpup configured lasgun in his lap and was sure that it was ready for the assault to come. His eyes looked over his command squad that filled the Valkyrie, they too were ready.

The feeling came over him like a weak tide. Suddenly the normally wisecracking and mirthfull Carolonian was sad for no reason. It was overwhlming to the point that a single tear rolled down his right cheek and froze crystaline in the subzero air of the open flyer.
******************************************
101st Air Assault Regiment, Bravo Company

Lt Rocco "Rocky" Hunter was nearly asleep in his harness as the Valkyrie rose and fell on the thermals that buffeted it on the way to his companies jump off point. Suddenly he woke to a feeling of sadness that he couldnt explain. A single tear rolled down his left cheek and froze.
******************************************

Carolon

Lorilei entered he office and punched the button that was flashing a waiting call. The holo image of the Madam President Donna Lane appeared before her. Lorilei knew that the most powerfull woman on the screen was Hunters first love, and first wife, the fact that they were divorced which was a shame to both parties was kept as secret as possible. But what wasnt kept secret from Lorilei was that even though estranged Donna and Hunter had a very passionate and private affair that had kept up even though their marriage had ended many years before. "Madam President."

"Hello Lorilei , you have my condolences on your recent loss," the president began. "I would like to offer my services in protecting you and Hunters children from this unknown murderer. What can I do?"

"Help me trap him," Lorilei said with vengance in her voice.

"How do you propose that?" Donna asked with skepticism. "From all my inquiries this intruder is not easy to catch. The Forrest Guardians found the intruders shuttle and began to try and trap the intruder. They had the trail several times but lost it each time. Even the Squat remnant reported an intruder but the person was gone and undetectable by the time the warriors got to where their gear detected them. Also the Squats portable gear couldnt detect the intruder. The day that Alicia was shot a Forret Guardian was close enough to hear the shot. She managed to find the tree the shot was taken from, but the intruder was gone. Finally a forrest Rattling actually had the intruder in his sight, but before he could pull the trigger, gone." Donna cocked her head tp one side and raised a questioning eyebrow. "Just how do you plan to trap this unstoppable assasin?"

"We will set two traps," Lorilei began. "The first thing to do is get the children to Lejune. Shut down all air and sea traffic until he is killed or captured. If any boat or flyer comes within 200 miles the military command of Lejune reduces it to its basic subatomic particles. The second trap will be more lucratve to him, as it will be me here all alone."

"How can you be so sure this assasin will take the bait?"

"Because I know who he is," Lorilei said with confidence. "As you know Hunter has had me chronicleing his career. Not to long ago I was documenting his campaign on a world whose name has been wiped from all his datacards. It is the only time Hoots was relieved of command."

Donnas jaw dropped at the mention the only negative mark in HUnters otherwise stellar career. Shewas sure that she had had all references to it erased. "How did you find out?"

"That dosent matter," Lorilei answered shortly. "On this campaign Hunter was working with a group of infiltrators reffered to as Nightstalkers. For some reason the commander in charge became obsessed with their elimiation, which Hunter managed to disrupt and stop every time until a Mordian Colonel named Decius came up with a plan that he thought was foolproof. Agin Hunter objected and even went as far as refusing the orders. That was when he was relieved of command. It was thought that all of the Nightstalkers were killed, but one body was never recovered, that of Jagdus Dashor. He is who is killing our family. He is trying to draw Hunter back to Carolon and kill him."

"So how does knowing this help you?"

"I hope to be able to set him off balance by knowing his name," Lorilei said with a sly grin. "After that I will keep him off balance by telling him the truth that it was Decius not Hunter that was trying to kill him. That Hunter later tracked down Decius when he was declared Excomunitcatus, killed his son, and sent him to a penal colony, from which he later escaped, and I tink he is behind Dashors assault."

"So what do you plan to do talk to him and make him feel better?" Donna asked with no little sarcasm.

Lorilei glared at the Madam President for a moment before she replied. "No my goal is to kill him. As you know I am well trained and can hold my own."

"Against an Imperial Assasin?" Donna asked with skepticism.

"Thats what Hunter had me trained to deal with," Lorilei answered with a vicious grin. Obvilusly Lady Donna didnt know the training she had recieved, nor did she know that Hunter was just as ambitious as her and dreamed of one day being the next Solar Macharius, and with that in mind knew he would need protection second to none. "Whether I can match Dashors skills I dont know, but if he does kill me then I hope to have time enough to plant enough doubt in his mind that he gets sloppy and a Guardian gets him or that in the least he leaves the children alone."

Donna took a minute to consider Lorileis plan. "Very well I will agree to this, and good luck."

Lorilei nodded to the Madam President as the holoimage faded. Then she pressed a button to open a secret closet in her office. She inspected the custom plasma pistol, bolt pistol, and finally the C'Tan phase blades that had been purchsed at enormous cost to Hunters fortunes. She was ready, but first she had to get the children to the military continent of Lejune.

[Tanith Ghost]

"Colonel, we thought you'd never get here." Captain Daur said, as men draggen themselves from the rubble of the command hub." "Jen's bunch reports and fron wide enemy retreat, and is pursuing full force." A vox operator chimed in from where the long range vox now connected all elements of the 47th rifles again. "Have what's left of Cutter's crew get into the chase and keep the running right to the hive." Dark responded to both men in smooth time. "Get Rory's crew up as far as is humanly possible without them being taken out and have them begin shelling the outer defense works near the hive. I want everyone repositioned to move right up on the walls in preparation for sapping work."

[Hooter Hunter]

Holy Terra

Adjutant General Jacka walked into the Lord Militants office the moment he was summoned. "Sir?"

"Have a seat and look at the latest from Hagra III," Lord Militant Wujen slid several dataslates across the desk as the elder Jacka took his usual seat. "General Leigh is fitting in well aboard His Legacy," Wujen tapped the bottom dataslate. "This one is from our Angel stating that she is ready to leave and head for His Legacy with the relic as soon as Enciladus Hive is secured. The last two are from Hunter. The top one is his estimate on when the Hive will be secured. Bold plan he outlined attacking from so many directions but with Imrador and Cypher on the inside it stands a good chance at success."

Adjutant General Jacka grinned as he took a cup of brew from the Ogryn that offered it to him. "Why do you even have me read these bloody things if you are going to tell me whats on them?"

Lord Militant Wujen laughed softly as he too took a steaming cup from the Ogryn. "You are here to sort through the details and catch anything I miss. Now on the last dataslate Hunter has an idea that I think has quite a bit of merit. As you are aware so far the Flyin Circus, as Hunter calls it, has taken precious few prisoners on Hagra III." The Lord Militant waited for the elder Jacka to acknowledge the fact before going on. "Well once Enciladus Hive falls he plans to offer for all Hagran troops a sort of redemption."

"Hunter isnt planning to offer amnesty is he?" the Cadian asked somewhat shocked that Hunter would do something like this without approval.

"Oh no nothing of the sort," Wujen replied reassuring Jacka. " He has proposed an idea of building Redemption Battalions as he is calling them. He wants to round up all that will lay down their arms and surrender and send them to Adaven IV. There he wants to supply Samothracian Commisars to weed out any BoO diehards and pick new noncoms and officers. Once the Redemption Battalions are formed then they will be attached to different formations within the Flyin Circus."

Jacka the elder was already scrolling through Hunter proposal and nodding at most of Hunters points. "I see that he is thinking that because they are already highly trained and well armed this would be a quick way to refill his ranks."

"That and also a good source of highly motivated troops, looking to redeem themselves in His eyes," Wujen nodded at the appraisal. "So old friend what do you think?"

"I want to have a little time review his proposal," Jacka the Elder rose and left the ideas already running through his head.

[Colonel Jacka]

Thought For The Day!

Bugger! Jenks who taught you to make Brew!

Jacka's Command Chimera

Jacka spat the Brew out wishing Bill was back. Jenks Brew was not good. "Remind me to demote you Adjt!" commented Jacka looking at the back of Capt Jenks head! The head did not respond! "Jenks are you with us here? Or are you on Zog again?"

"What...... I'm sorry Colonel I just getting a unit ID on the vox and I have no idea who they are!" replied Jenks.

Jacka looked over Aron's shoulder and listened to the signal! "Get O'Connor on the phone and see if we have any new units in loc. I don't want any Blue on Blue contacts. Make it quick!"

"Yes Sir!" Jenks called Hunter's HQ.

[Hooter Hunter]

Enciladus Hive

Eric Kittle ducked back down as the Hagran heavy bolters began to pound the wall he was using for cover. "I am gettin real damned tarred of bein pinned down," he complained to the Sgt next to him. The Sgt only nodded grimly. Both men were used to being able to use their mounts for manuver as well as speed for assault.

The Sgt lit a cigerette and slumped back towards the wall. "My feet aint hurt this bad since my wedding day."

Eric nodded and took one for himself and lit it. He was about halfway through his smoke when his vox operator crawled over. "Any word on Sgt Hamfist and his Ogryns?"

"They are pinned down just as bad as us," the operator replied. "I think the damned Hagrans havemoved every heavy bolter and autocannon they have into that building. But I do have good news."

"If you tell me you saved money by switching to Gie..." Eric was drowned out by the rattle of autocannons that were taking turns firing with the heavy bolters so that neither platoon overheated their barrels. Eric spat the dust out of his mouth. "Buggers are gettin our position a lil to close fer my likin. So whats yer news?"

"We are gettin support from the 3rd Heavy Dragoons," the vox sgt replied. "They say they'll be on station in figures five."

"About time," Eric sighed and looked at his chrono. Three minutes later he saw the sentinels of the heavy dragoons moving about the ruined buildings to his south. "Bring the rain," he yelled knowing full well the sentinel pilots couldnt hear him.

The Sentinel company was made up of four troops of three sentinels each. Troop A was armed with autocannons, B and C with multilasers and D troops were support sentinels with rocket pods. Once the company got in place A Troop opened with their autocannons. The Hagrans replied, but di no damage due to A Troop positioning itself in a well protected hull down position. Once the Hagrans position was fixed B and C troop added their firepower to pin them in place and finally D Troop began hammering the Hagrans with rockets.

Eric ordered his troops to charge just as soon as the rocket barrage let up. The other senitinels kept hammering the Hagrans with cover fire. Eric shouldered his way into the building past a door threatning to fall off its hinges. His troops were close on his heels, many firing from their hips as they jumped through shattered windows and doors to secure the building. Most of the Hagrans were still stunned from the rocket barrage and gave little resistance, and the Carolonians were not very merciful to the gun crews as they broke into their protective emplacements.

"Ya cant have it both ways boyos!" Eric heard a corporal yell as he gunned down a heavy bolter crew that were attempting to surrender. As the outer part of the building was cleared the Carolonians fought hall to hall. Finally in one of the inner most halls Eric saw a sign on the wall that directed him to the Mayors office.

"I'll be damned," he muttered as he ordered his men forward. They shot their way through any resistance, and occasionally clubbed the Hagrans out of the way, working closely with Shemp Hamfist and his Ogryns they soon found themselves just outside the Mayors office.

Standing guard just outside the office was a Commisar armed with a power sword. "You heretics shall not pass!" The Commisar began to weave his sword around in delicate and well practiced manuvers.

"I'm to tired fer this crap," Eric muttered and pumped three rounds from his shotgun into Commisars chest collapsing him on the floor. "Call pops and tell him to let Nuncle Hoots we have the mayors office."
*********************************************
Hunters HQ

Master Sgt Rebbeca Galleron was nearly done with her sweep when she felt a presence behind her. She pulled her Hellgun up and spun around bringing the muzzle up even with the mans eyes. "By Pius!" she swore, only to see the reborn Saint Pius indeed standing before her. "Oh it is you. How did you get here?"

"Sgt Galleron," Pius spoke with no doubt as to the command in his voice. "General Hunter will need your help and your care in the future. Do not leave his side for any reason!" Pius then faded from sight.

Becca stood shocked for a moment before regathering her wits. "What the hell was that about?"

[polymphus]

Darkness. Not darkness like "oh no, who turned out the lights?", but something deep and primal. The kind of dark that makes dogs whine and people shudder and hike up the covers. LeBrusse woke to it, and felt something clammy touch his shoulder. He shouted, grabbed the thing and slammed into the nearby wall, which fell open on a hinge; it being in fact a door. The Colonel and the Beast hit the floor, and there was a crack.

Ducard took a casual puff of his cigarette. "Yeah boss, I think you got it. That mop aint going to be bothering us any more," he said, grinning.
LeBrusse surveyed his attacker's mangled body. He's fallen asleep in the cleaning servitors' supply closet again. If he did it again, they'd soon be out of cleaning equipment. He brushed himself off and shunted the ruined mop back into the closet. Ducard continued to grin. If it had been any else, they'd be seeing the world through two black eyes. Ducard had a slightly scandalised look on his face. "Heard you talking in your sleep boss. Who's Sarah?"

The second he said the words, he regretted it. Lebrusse gave him a look that could have pushed in rivets and stormed off down the corridor, muttering quietly. Having seen his commanding officer react in such a way to such a simple question, Lieutenant Colonel Marc Ducard decided it would be best for all if he forgot he'd asked it.

Johannes was looking at maps when LeBrusse stormed in. He'd gone to great trouble drawing a detailed assault plan onto the map in three different colours, and was not at all happy when the Colonel flung the map from the table and sat down. "No paper maps 'hannes. Gotta keep up with the times. We've got all out plans stored on a servitor, and backed up in a second in case the first decides it wants to be people or something." He smiled grimly. Van Zweijen merely looked grim. He cleared his throat and nodded reproachfully to the map on the floor. "My sources indicate that probability of a Slaaneshi uprising from the citizens if minimal. At worst, the people of this planet seem to enjoy their amasec a little too much, but if that were a crime I'd have had your whole regiment in the chambers years ago. There's no insidious chaos cult here. You've brought us on a wild grox chase. Unless I'm missing something here, I'd have to suspect that you're lying to an agent of the Holy Inquisition; the penalty for which is death."

"Cut the crap 'hannes. If you'd enforced every infraction against us that you wanted, we'd all be dead by now. I told you, my informant has never failed me. If it were obvious from your files, the cult would hardly be called insidious would it? Just give us a few days on the ground and you'll see what I mean."

+++

It was against every single fibre of his moral being, but he knew that the little snatch of vocalised dream he'd caught from LeBrusse had been important. He just knew it. So Ducard snuck into the Colonel's private chambers, and had a rifle through his files. After a few minutes, his eye caught something that looked unusual.

Profile: Sarah Jacka.

Another few minutes passed, reading this time. Afterwards, Ducard put the file back down, very carefully, and went to leave. Then, with some consideration, he grabbed the file, tucked it underneath his flak vest, and headed for the copying device.

+++

A meeting had been called. Communications had been sent out to all friendly forces in the vicinity. And there were lot of them, it seemed. Friendlies that is. Meetings were fairly common too, although when they went to meet friendlies they didn't take the hooch. The Colonel and that damn tight lipped Inquisitor were standing in the centre of the room, with a holomap of the area behind them, the Inquisitor scowling every time he was forced to look at it.

LeBrusse was pointing to various points and talking, and the men listened attentively. They were to try and meet up with the 'Orphan Brigade', although said brigade didn't know they were coming yet. They'd been sending out broadcasts to no response for the last twenty minutes, although considering the state of the ramshackle HQ's comms, that was hardly surprising. But Van Zweijen insisted contact be made as soon as possible. And so the men headed to the valkyries, loading them up with as much social lubricant as possible. They didn't take hooch to friendlies. Ok. So maybe sometimes...