Stories of the Dark Galaxy: Voice of the Void

[Shinros]

Planning on building up my own sector through a host of short stories. This is Sector Taldis and the 1st story is the creed that units us. T'au fans if I get something wrong please point it out.

 

The first story follows Shas'la Eldi and his mission to take an imperium ship. 

 

1st short story: The Creed That Unites Us

 

Act 1

The boarding torpedo shuddered and veered of course. As it crashed into the ship the plasma cutters worked their way through the metal, when they grew to a halt the door opened. Shas’la Eldi slipped onto the imperial ship. His squad’s shield drone floated out with him, he readied his plasma rifle and looked around. The hallway was dimly lit, cables hanged out sparking with electricity. “The humans do not take care of their ships...so the information was correct.” He checked over his surrounding area again, no enemies were detected he relaxed and tried to form a communication link with his Shas’ui. There was only static and gunshots. “Shas’ui my torpedo veered of course. It seems I am on a lower level.” There was a haze of static but eventually staggered words came through. “Sh...la….advan...to...bri….” 

 

He could barely make sense of his words but he could understand his Shas’ui well enough that he should keep to mission parameters. He sent a basic order to the shield drone to activate, it gave off a low sounding whine as the the shields enveloped his own form along with the machine. He then readied his plasma rifle again and advanced down the hallway. He encountered no hostiles so far, giving him some room to think. His sept T’ros, have come to bring the greater good to sector Taldis. They approached the first planet dubbed Alvadis by the humans. They came in peace but the human fleet opened fire, landing the expansion in this situation. 

 

He has seen the logs detailing human practices and so far he could only think of humans as barbaric. Praying to machines, loading a ship guns by slaves and even turning their own into lobotomized slaves. The thought of ever reducing a member of the T’au to such a state was abhorrent to him. “Xeno life form detected.” his reflection on information was ended, a built human strode towards him. Half of his face was replaced by rusting metal, cables dangled from ports on his skin. Eldi aimed at the human. “Drone MV4 Farstrider, analysis.” he said calmly.

 

He took steps back, making sure to keep some distance from the advancing human. Whether he was alive or not he wasn’t sure. The drone released a few beeps and spoke in a flat matter. “Human, forty years old. Subject log file drawn on the humans species...this subject is a servitor. It’s programming is basic but is known to attack all xeno life forms once detected. Caution is advised.” Eldi didn’t hesitate he fired at the creature, the plasma energy tore through the servitor. It released a long string of random code and it started to repeated the words. “Error, error, error…” The servitor fell to the ground, white ooze left it’s mouth. 

 

Eldi walked over to the corpse and fired his rifle again at the corpse, blasting apart it’s head. He then relaxed “can never be too careful, so this is one of their slaves…” Staring at the body of the creature he realised more than ever they must save the humans from themselves. Barbaric religious practices have taken sway of their hearts and minds, once they join the greater good they can be educated properly. 

 

He nodded and continued his mission, he reached the elevator heading to the upper levels but a group of humans were crowding around it. He grimaced, his role was not to talk to humans or convince them of the greater good. That was the role of the Por caste.

 

In the end they were here to bring the humans to the greater good not kill them. “Freeze. Do not move.” The human tongue was strange on his lips, their ethereal had them study the language whenever they were awoken from stasis during their long flights. The humans turned to him, they were obviously malnourished and there was a mix between male and female. They raised their hands apart from one female who glowered at the rest. “Guys it’s an alien!” One of the males shook their head “b-but he has a gun.” The female hissed at him. “They are here to kill us idiot!” 

 

Eldi watched them bicker, he raised his plasma rifle in the air and shot it. Causing the humans to flinch, he bought it back down. “I am not one of the water caste, but I will tell you now we are not here to kill you. I can see your human masters have abused you, so if you wish to be free stand aside.” At the mention of freedom the humans fell into discussion, the female was outnumbered by the rest. The male she argued with came forward. “W-What do you mean freedom?” “We bring the greater good to this sector, we of the T’au have found prosperity under it. I doubt you even see three meals a day do you?” The male wiped his lips, at the mention of meals he turned to the rest. “We should let him through.” the female shook her head. “No they will kill us! What if the xeno’s lose and the overseers get wind of this!?” 

 

Eldi raised his eyebrow “overseers? Drone explain.” he said in his native tongue. His drone beeped again. “Human overseers supervises the work crew of a human factory or ship. Do not confuse them with the Fio’el of the earth caste. For they do not treat workers as slaves but as arms of the greater good.” “So do human overseers beat their slaves? Do they kill them?” he hoped it wasn’t true. The drone released a low whine. “Correct, they kill and torture them with electric prods if they feel they are not working correctly.” Eldi took a glance at the arms of the humans, they had burn scars. 

 

He didn’t feel anger at the humans, only disappointment. After they finished bickering they cleared the way. Passing by them he strangely saw hope in their eyes, he pressed the button to open the elevator door. Upon entering he looked at the buttons, according to the brief the bridge level should be on the 34th floor. He pressed the button for that floor, the doors closed and the number slowly counted upwards. Soon as it passed the first floor a voice started to blurt from the speaker. “Purge the heretic, purge the unclean, kill the alien. This is what our emperor demands.” Shas’la Eldi frowned “pull up the log on the emperor MV4.” 

 

The drone released a humming sound while speaking in it’s monotone voice. “The emperor is the subject the humans deify. He represents the destruction of all alien lifeforms, the great ethereals are at work to incorporate this subject into the re-education program. Such is their wisdom” He wondered how anything that seeks destruction of all alien lifeforms can become part of the greater good. Such questions where for the ethereal caste to ponder but if it can be done so be it. 

 

The elevator chimed, the doors opened. He picked up the sounds of shouting and gunfire Eldi readied his weapon and advanced out of the elevator. He turned to each end of the hallway, they were no hostiles. He turned right and moved in the direction of gunfire, the bridge should be in that direction.

 

Act 2

Shas’la Eldi ran down the hallway moving through the twisting pathways, he encountered both T’au and human corpses. When he made another corner his drone beeped “hostiles incoming.” Eldi looked around the hallway, he was just one fire warrior against most likely a squad of human warriors. He narrowed his eyes at the corpses of his fellow fire warriors “all of you can still serve.” he said flatly. 

 

He searched the corpses, while going through them he noticed a Shas’ui, the blade on his back was familiar. After a moment of staring his eyes went wide. The ritual blade belonged to his squad. It was the object that bound them all together. He carefully removed the blade and placed it to one side. He then searched his Shas’ui’s corpse and found what he was looking for. A photon grenade. He hooked the grenade to his belt, he then attached the ritual blade to his back. Next came the hard part, he piled the bodies of his squad to make some form of cover. His Shas’ui would want him to finish the mission, no matter the cost. 

 

Once he was done he peeked over it, there were various side side pathways down the hallway. The question is where was the voices coming from? He looked over to his drone. “Advance several metres ahead, draw the human warriors to me.” Eldi ordered. The drone bipped and flew down the hallway, it shifted it sensors towards each path. Until it reached the end of the hallway, the shouts grew in volume. The drone went around the corner, he picked up the words from the human warriors. “Xeno! Kill it!” Shas’la Eldi sent the return order through his drone controller. 

 

The drone came flying back, leading the human warriors to him. When the drone came back from around the corner. Eldi readied the photon grenade, the MV4 was flying towards him along with the human warriors in tow. He rose from his makeshift cover causing the human warriors to freeze, before they could raise their weapons he threw the grenade. They tried to run back but it was too late. With a brilliant burst of blue light there bodies were burned, limbs flew from bodies. Some of the human warriors were trying to stagger up, survivors from the blast. Eldi fired his plasma rifle in quick short bursts. 

 

Each human warrior cried for their diety upon death, what they saw in the god he still could not understand. He killed every human with quiet efficiency, he assumed they were the ones who killed his squad but as the greater good teaches them, anger leads to uncertainty. Anger leads to poor judgement. Anger makes one slow and weak. 

 

When the last human was killed he left the corpses and walked down the hallway, his drone returned to his side. He made the corner the humans came from, he now stood before golden double doors. It depicted men in great armour along with human warriors crushing Ta’u along with a host of other xeno species. He shook his head, but his eyes hovered on the giant warriors. He assumed those were the space marines, the finest warriors the imperium could create. Yet where he was standing they were flawed, if they are the pinnacle of human ingenuity then they must be warriors of hatred. Pure and utter hatred. 

 

The disappointment he had in humanity increased he walked to the doors and as they came apart he entered the bridge of the ship. He hoped he would not have to kill those here, but that might be a possible outcome. The bridge staff looked at him in a mix of fear and most likely anger, Eldi turned to where he assumed the captain sat. The grand throne was another clear example of human arrogance. She narrowed her eyes while pointing an archaic human pistol at him. “Xeno” she spat. Eldi nodded “yes to me you are an alien as well. But unlike you I do not look upon you with hatred. Surrender, you have lost.” 

 

The captain fired her gun several times, the shield enveloping his form flickered which caused the humans on the bridge to gasp. The captain kept firing until she ran out of ammunition. Shas’la Eldi shook his head. “Why do you hate us so?” The ship captain shouted at him. “You wish to destroy the imperium! Your existence is an affront to the most holy emperor!” “Does your emperor approve of abusing your follow man? Does he nod in satisfaction as your overseers use cattle prods to make them work?” “Heresy! They wo-” “They work towards destruction and hatred, the greater good will give them lives worth living. I suspect they will have less burn scars as well.” The captain looked like she was going to explode, she pointed at him. “Everyone! We can kill the xeno if we work together!” 

 

Eldi looked around, many of the bridge staff was unarmed he pointed his plasma rifle at the captain. “Do not do this.” Eldi said firmly. The crew were rising from seats. He sighed heavily he was about to press the trigger until he heard footsteps along with a voice. “That won’t be necessary Shas’la.” Everyone’s eyes fell upon the doors, Eldi would salute in respect but he kept his weapon trained on the captain. Shas’O Varish strode onto the bridge along with a unit of Shas’ui fire warriors. Varish’s grey battlesuit was covered in black spots and chinks but he largely looked unharmed. 

 

His presence along with the Shas’ui squad caused the bridge crew to slink back. His Shas’O walked to his side and pointed his fusion blaster at the captain. “Surrender.” he said firmly. The captain sank on her throne “We will defeat you alien…” She hissed. Shas’O Varish shook his head. “The creed that bounds the T’au together will see us to victory. When people see the virtue in it they will come to our side.” 

 

Hearing those words Eldi thought of the humans on the lower levels. They saw hope, he saw hope in their eyes. “Captain…” He didn’t know why he was speaking out of turn, but his Shas’O was allowing him to speak. “I saw hope in the eyes of your fellow humans as they let me onto the elevator. Not all are trapped by the imperium’s destructive dogma, you cannot see that for you sit upon a throne, looking down upon everyone else.” He lowered his plasma gun. “This is why the T’au fight, not for hatred or false dogma. But to bring a sense of order and hope to this chaotic galaxy.”

 

His Shas’O nodded “well spoken Shas’la, now captain. I state again you have lost. You will all be taken to our ships and re-educated.” His fellow fire warriors were now surrounding the rest of the bridge crew. The fact none of them were fighting back showed there was hope that their minds could be changed. A part of him wishes that his squad could of been here at this victory, but in the end they died for the creed that unites them all. 

[Bjorn Firewalker]

You write from the Tau POV very well.

[Shinros]

You write from the Tau POV very well.

Thanks, was scouring Lexicanum to make sure I get them right. This is just the start of Shas'la Eldi's dark adventure. :) 

[Tarvek Val]

That was a very enjoyable read. You did an excellent job with this piece, and I'm looking forwards to the next installment.

 

 

 

The drone released a humming sound while speaking in it’s monotone voice. “The emperor is the subject the humans deify. He represents the destruction of all alien lifeforms, the great ethereals are at work to incorporate this subject into the re-education program. Such is their wisdom” He wondered how anything that seeks destruction of all alien lifeforms can become part of the greater good. Such questions where for the ethereal caste to ponder but if it can be done so be it.

 

Would love to see the above concept worked into the continuing story, it's interesting to consider how the Tau view the Emperor.

[Shinros]

That was a very enjoyable read. You did an excellent job with this piece, and I'm looking forwards to the next installment.

 

 

 

The drone released a humming sound while speaking in it’s monotone voice. “The emperor is the subject the humans deify. He represents the destruction of all alien lifeforms, the great ethereals are at work to incorporate this subject into the re-education program. Such is their wisdom” He wondered how anything that seeks destruction of all alien lifeforms can become part of the greater good. Such questions where for the ethereal caste to ponder but if it can be done so be it.

 

Would love to see the above concept worked into the continuing story, it's interesting to consider how the Tau view the Emperor.

Thanks, that's what I am aiming for. To show a contrast, personally I think the lore plays about the T'au's naivety a bit too much and downplays what they are to the setting. 

 

2nd Short Story:Anger and Arrogance. 

 

 

Act 1

The devilfish rumbled, he could pick up the sounds of chittering and the armour being gashed by the hostile xenos. “Shas’ui…” Eldi shifted his gaze to Shas’la Ki’ra, he was not wearing his helmet. His face was creased with worry, he assumed that he just recently earned the rank of Shas’la. “What is it?” Eldi asked. “What do you do before battle?” the question from Shas’la Ki’ra was earnest. The eyes from the rest of his squad fell upon him. 

 

It was evident they were all essentially new recruits. When they were all placed under him he thought they would have some years of experience. He wondered if perhaps this was part of his new trial of fire to earn a higher rank? He mused on the question for a moment. “Duty and the ability to control your heart.” he answered. Each fire warrior was attentive. “We each have a duty to the greater good. If I fall you must pursue the completion of the mission.” They were being sent to clear out a hotzone, they came to Vashira to bring the greater good. It was the next planet in the sub-sector but a hostile alien lifeform got in the way. Now they are in the process of trying to save the planet even if the humans do not wish it. The human fleet fled upon their arrival leaving the planet to it’s fate. “We must also control our hearts.” he continued. “We will see many things on this expansion, we will see humans acting barbaric or even hateful. Yet this is why we are here, to bring reason and order. Anger...makes you slow, it makes you weak. This is the wisdom I shall impart to you my fellow fire warriors.” 

 

They all nodded, he hoped they took his words to heart. “Now Ki’ra put on your helmet, we might be attacked at any second.” The Shas’la quickly placed his grey helm over his head. Soon as he completed the action the devilfish shuddered and fell to the ground with a thud. The light’s went out for a moment but the backup generator activated. A dim light washed over them, the driver opened the transport comms. “We’ve taken significant damage, we have to pro-” His voice was cut off as the sounds of a shrill roar cut through the comms. The driver screamed in agony and as it drained away they now could only hear the tearing of meat. 

 

His fire warriors became tense, fingers were shaking on plasma rifles. Eldi readied his own and stood up. “Up my fellow warriors, we have to advance on foot.” They all rose at his order, Eldi approached the devilfish door. He pointed at Shas’la Ki’ra “I want you to open the door on my signal.” The fire warrior nodded and stood at the button, his finger hovered over it. Eldi listened carefully, he could hear the tearing of flesh has stopped and in its place he heard the scratching of claws over the top of the devilfish. When it fell silent he raised his plasma rifle at the door and gave the order. “Open it!” Shas’la Ki’ra pressed the button. The door swung open and before him was a great purple mostrisity, it bore four limbs that ended in bladed talons it lunged towards him but he was ready. He opened fire sending the creature flying back, he then walked out of the devilfish he kept firing at the same time until the creature stopped moving. 

 

The hot plasma blasted apart it’s carapace and melted it’s face. He looked back to the downed devilfish. “All of you out, we continue our mission.” His fire warriors left the devilfish, their eyes were focused on the hostile xeno he killed. He had no time to be distracted, he activated his drone controller. From the transport two drones floated out, MV4 Farstrider and the newest edition MV1 Gravewarder. The two drones hovered around him. “MV4, analysis how far are we from our objective?” The drone scanned the surrounding area. “We’re two miles from the objective Shas’ui. If we advance down the road and take a left we will arrive at the mission site” it said flatly. “Good. Not too far.” He faced the rest of his fire warriors. “We are moving out on me.” They all fell in around him, Eldi activated the shield drone. 

 

There was a spark of blue light as the shields enveloped them. Next in turn he activated the MV1 drone. It’s twin pulse carbines were at the ready. They then advanced down the road, Farstrider gave updates along the way. Across the planet they were slowly pushing back against the xenos, unfortunately many humans turn to fighting them once they were dealt with. He could see the news was wearing down upon his squad, but they had to hear this. 

 

Information is key to winning wars, at the same time it will help them understand why the humans need the greater good. “Hostiles incoming.” MV4 announced. Eldi stopped running, he aimed his rifle down the street. It was silent, he didn’t like it. “Weapons free, pay attention to your surroundings my warriors.” The seconds ticked by, that was when from the building windows creatures jumped out. They were smaller than the one he killed, but they were numerous. “Open fire!” Eldi called out. 

 

They unleashed a hail of plasma fire, with the drone supporting they were cutting down many. The issue was they will reach close combat, it couldn’t be avoided. “My warriors cover me!” He slung his rifle over his shoulder, he removed the ritual blade from his back and drew his pulse pistol. He ran towards the hostile aliens, he kept firing his pistol along the way. 

 

When he reached close combat one alien leapt at him, Eldi bought the ritual blade up and sliced off its head before it could land upon him. The action caused the creature’s attention to divert upon him. The MV1 drone covered his flank while he kept killing those in front of him, claws tore off his shoulder pad, his thigh was gashed. But steadily they were whittled by his warriors supporting fire until none remained. 

 

The short battle saw him weakened, his body covered with a dozen gashes and cuts. His life blood was leaking from his shoulder. The large armour plate was gone, but it was a sacrifice he would make again without hesitation. “MV4, damage analysis.” The drone scanned him, it’s usual monotone voice left the machine. “Minor injuries, once you receive medical attention you will be fit to carry on your duties for the greater good.” He nodded, that meant he could continue. He looked back to his fire warriors, they ran towards him. 

 

Shas’la Ki’ra shook his head. “T-That…” His voice trailed off, to question as superior was foolish. Yet Eldi smiled. “Speak Shas’la.” Ki’ra nodded. “That was foolish Shas’ui, what if we lost you? Anyone of us could of acted as bait.” “No I am your Shas’ui, your example. I will not spend your lives in such a fashion. I knew if I died you would continue on. I am your leader, not your ruler.” Shas’la Ki’ra was about to protest again, but Eldi interrupted him. “A leader leads from the front, by the power of example. A ruler pushes from behind by means of club, the whip, the power of fear. That is how the human warriors do things, we are T’au. Look at the Aun caste, their lives are valuable to us yet many of them lead at the front whenever it comes to conflict. They wish to set an example to us all, an example all T’au should follow.” A sense of peace enveloped his squad, he could see they understood his words. He sheathed the ritual blade and returned the pistol to it’s holster. 

 

He unslung his plasma rifle and faced the road again. “We move on.” he said firmly.

 

[Shinros]

Act 2

They were running down the street, they made the corner as the the drone instructed. What Eldi saw was humans warriors firing behind makeshift cover. It was evident by the stream of hostile xenos that they will be eventually overwhelmed. Eldi didn’t hesitate, but he felt a hand on his shoulder. “Shas’ui, you can’t.” Shas’la Ki’ra was concerned he could tell. The humans haven’t noticed them, but there will be no telling when so he decided to be quick with his answer. “Fear clouds your heart Shas’la Ki’ra. I know you are thinking of the reports, but if one side does not offer their hand who will?” He strode on, he will not force them. 

 

Fear has to be dealt with personally. He ran towards the cover and fired upon the encroaching alien creatures. The humans in turn looked at him with shock. “A-Alien!” a human warrior shouted. “Yes, I am an alien but I am quite sure that I am helping you deal with the enemies in front of you. Focus.” The humans were staring at him for a moment, but the hostile xenos drew their attention again. Together they unleashed a hail of fire, it wasn’t enough. If his fellow fire warriors helped they might win. 

 

Eldi removed a photon grenade from his belt, he primed it and threw it at the crowd of chittering creatures. The explosion caused a swathe to vanish under the blue light. “We are vastly outnumbered Shas’ui. I highly recommend you retreat.” Eldi raised his eyebrow and glanced at MV4, it shouldn’t recommend anything or have such concerns. “No, we hold here we must.” The drone said nothing further. He frowned and continued firing, when he noticed blue orbs flying towards the hostile xenos he glanced around the cover to see his own fire warriors has joined him. Sadly it didn’t help the tide was too great. 

 

Suddenly MV4 beeped. “Incoming message Shas’la.” The drone’s voice was replaced by the voice of his Shas’O. “The giant xeno creature has been defeated. We assume it’s the leader. The forces surrounding it have fell into a frenzy.” He wondered if the announcement was for morale, but to his shock the tide of aliens before them turned feral. They fell upon one another in a mad frenzy. Some were still advancing but they seemed more like an animal than a guided intelligence. 

 

Both forces did not waste the opportunity, they cut down the hostile alien. Steadily they were reduced to nothing. Once they were gone both humans at his side pointed their weapons at him. The rest of the human warriors did the same to his own fire warriors. “Don’t attack.” He ordered through the comms. Each fire warrior sent an acknowledgement. 

 

“Enough.” A human rose from the cover, he wore a helmet but going by the medals on his armour Eldi assumed he was the leader. The warrior walked over to him, he had his gun lowered. His fellow warriors still had their weapons trained on him. “Why did you help us?” the human asked. Eldi frowned, he felt he wasn’t good at talking with humans. “The question is why shouldn’t we help?” he said flatly. 

 

The leader of the warriors shook his head. “We didn’t need your help.” “In my eyes you did, I assume if we did not intervene the hostile xeno would of devoured you all. I am referring to this world, not this singular battle.” The human narrowed his eyes. “The fleet has sent out a request for aid, we just needed to hold that’s all.” Eldi frowned. “Your human fleet fled in the face of this alien threat. We engaged the hostile xeno fleet and sought to save this world.” The human leader creased his brow, Eldi raised his eyebrow. “Did you expect your fleet to run?” Eldi asked. The human warrior sighed “you want to help?” “Yes.” “Then follow me. Everyone lower your weapons.” The humans surrounding him slowly lowered their weapons as ordered. 

 

The human warrior then lead them all to a nearby building, the leader introduced himself along the way. His name was Sergeant Travis, it took some time for Eldi to understand that Sergeant was not part of his name. The T’au never refer to each other by their personal names alone unless a Ta’lissera has been done, it was a ritual cutting of flesh with a ritual blade or knife. “So what is your name?” Sergeant Travis asked. “Shas’ui T’pos Eldi.” The human seemed confused. “You may call me Shas’ui Eldi, Sergeant Travis.” he said flatly. The human gave a slow nod. Now entering the building itself they were lead to a hall full of civilians and wounded soldiers. 

 

Upon their arrival the humans stared at them with fear, he could spot some of the human warriors trying to rise, most likely they were aiming to attack them. A woman in a white coat strode over to Sergeant Travis. “Why did you bring them here!?” “We have no choice, we need their help. The imperial navy have left us high and dry.” “They might come back!” “I have fought Tyranids Doctor Isabel. Normal procedure is they take who they can and reinforce the next sub-sector.” Eldi watched them argue, Shas’la Ki’ra shook his head. “So much discord.” he said in their native tongue. 

 

The female doctor shot a look at Shas’la Ki’ra. “What did he say!? Look Travis they are already plotting. They might even be here to eat us like the Tyranids!” Eldi came forward. “My Shas’la said there is much discord here and he is right. Anger is not making you see reason Doctor Isabel, your arrogance will see your charges dead.” Venom filled her face, she glared at the Sergeant. “They will mark us as heretics for this!” Eldi frowned he called for MV4. He spoke in the tongue of the humans. “MV4, tell me what this term heretic means.” The drone beeped “heretic is a term used by humans to mark someone as a betrayer or renegade. The proper course of punishment for such individuals in the imperium is burning at the stake. It is a barbaric practice that induces fear and paranoia into the human subjects, causing an eternal cycle of hatred and resentment.” MV4 said all of this in the tongue of the humans. Having the drone state it out loud caused everyone in the room to shrink slightly. Eldi removed his helm, his eyes fell upon the human doctor. “Fear, begets hatred and that hatred turns more of your kind into the thing you fear most.”  

 

 His gaze shifted to Sergeant Travis. “I assume you need medical supplies and protection?” The human warrior eyes said yes, it took him a moment to voice it. “We do, we can’t survive like this.” “Then you shall have it.” Eldi turned back to his drone. “Send the coordinates of our current position to command. The Fio caste will turn this place into a base we can use and give aid to these humans.” MV4 acknowledged the order and began processing his command. 

 

Eldi shifted back to Sergeant Travis “arrogance has been the downfall of many of your kind but I am glad such a negative emotion has no hold over your heart.” The Sergeant smiled, but strangely Eldi caught the hint of sadness. “I am a traitor, I most likely signed everyone’s death warrants.” “Then the T’au will protect you.” Isabel shook her head. “You can’t beat the imperium.” “Perhaps Doctor Isabel, but from all that I have seen so far the imperium will eventually destroy itself. It’s anger and arrogance will be it’s eventual downfall.” “We shall see alien.” The doctor turned away and returned to the injured. 

 

 Sergeant Travis rubbed his neck. “Sorry about that.” “I am not offended Sergeant Travis. I meant what I said and I stand by it. Now let us speak more of these...Tyranids.” When the human warrior started to explain what these xenos are that is when he felt a spark of hope for humanity. Not all are arrogant, greedy or hateful. He hoped that as this expansion progresses he will encounter more people like Sergeant Travis.   

 

[Shinros]

Edit: Never mind just realised you can. 

[Shinros]

Log 1 

 

I decided it would be wise to keep a log entry of my team’s experiments with this wonderful genome. We have all taken samples of the captured specimen which is now deceased. I shall call the specimen 101. We obtained the creature through the black market, the unsavoury aspects of the Adeptus Mechanicus are more than willing to part with certain goods depending on the price and they demanded much for 101. So once it was in our hands I along with my fellow rejuvenate adepts went to work extracting it’s genome. This grand project is for the sake of the betterment of mankind. In this dark galaxy we are still but children, waffling in the dark. But if we can unlock the possibility of true immortality and are able to harness the strength of the specimen we can rise above even the Aeldari or the chilling Necrons. Perhaps I dare say we might not even need to fear the enemies who dwell in the warp. 

 

I state again, before we begin this task in earnest, all I do is for humanity. If I somehow fail or killed for this...heresy I just want you, the reader to know that I am not acting out of selfishness or power. I do not work to tear down all that we hold dear, humanity is always at the forefront of my thoughts. 

 

Dr. Hydian Jackell 

 

Act 1 

Lord inquisitor Abriela Hasvor sat at the round table, she was waiting for her fellow inquisitors to arrive within this hallowed hall of the Taldis Conclave. The chamber bore statues of the emperor looking down upon them, there was one for each seat which there were four in total including hers. The significance of the statues was not lost upon her, the meaning was clear. The emperor was watching his agents conduct the holy work to protect mankind for even they can be found wanting. It takes merely one decision, even the tiniest act of averting one’s gaze from heresy for the sake of the bigger picture can end one’s career permanently. She sighed and sorted through the papers in front of her. Too many are weak she thought. That single notion was what has kept her heart pure from seeds of doubt, from the darkness of grey. 

 

It was in bending the rules were most fail, to bend will cause a crease and eventually you will break. It was only a matter of time. She moved aside a report that was on top of another. It described how the T’au have almost completely taken over sub-sector Axim and at the same time defeated a Tyranid threat saving the planet Vashira and in all the sub-sector as well. Everyone in that sector will be sent to camps once it was retaken, she will ensure that. All the heretics there are now traitors to the imperial creed and the imperium. Abriela moved to the next report, it detailed a far more darker subject. One that has been ignored for too long, she suspected most of her fellow inquisitors think they are dealing with a minor cult but the Tyranid hive fleet appearing in this sector was not by chance. “Heresy surrounds us…” she uttered under his breath. 

 

She looked up to the statue of the emperor above her, she stared into the hollow eye sockets. Why are they weak? She asked of her god. Why do they stray? She continued asking the master of mankind various forms the question this was only stopped as the hall doors were opened. Those of the conclave walked in, the first to take their seat was Lord Inquisitor Amicus Valence. He wore power armour that was replete with purity seals, his helmet hid his facial scarring that was inflicted upon him by a cult leader. He was tailed by two of his bodyguards who wielded sanctified bolters. The second inquisitor to take their seat was Vada Mabel. Instead of striding into the hall in a suit of power armour she wore a black cloak that hid most of her form, she also was wearing a golden death mask with the inquisitorial I engraved upon it. 

 

The last was Galel Zaan, his attire was modest. Only a leather jacket and chainmail lined his body along with combat trousers and black boots. With the conclave sitted Abriela stood up. “I have called this meeting to discuss the threat facing our sector.” At the mention of threat Galel made the motion to cross his legs. “You are referring to the T’au.” “Yes I am referring them.” She nodded in Galel’s direction he was an ordo xeno’s inquisitor like her so he would most likely understand the threat they are facing at the moment. 

 

She picked up the report and shook it. “They’ve taken a sub-sector already. Give them perhaps ten to twenty years and perhaps this whole sector might belong to them.” She hoped the announcement would garner support but the hall was silent. “We made the mistake of leaving the T’au alone when we should of exterminated them at the first opportunity. I wish to call a crusade against the xenos.” The word crusade caused Vada to let loose a small cough that betrayed her weakness, it was weak and fragile. “Is there a problem?” she asked the golden mask inquisitor. “No Abriela, I just believe a crusade is too hasty. I think a scalpel would be more effective than a hammer. I recall your ordo has something like that don’t you?” She knew what she was referring to but it might cause the incorrect response. Galel suddenly sighed “using the deathwatch may not solve the problem. I know what you are going to suggest, have them kill the Ethereal right?” Vada cocked her head. “I don’t see an issue with that plan. It would send the misbegotten xenos into disarray it happens all the time.” “It will make them angry.” Galel retorted firmly. “An angry xeno’s makes mistakes.” the golden masked inquisitor shot back. “Well yes but we mustn't forget those angry xenos will have battlesuits. They have the power to change the flow of battles just like the Adeptus Astartes!” Galel shouted back. 

 

She watched both inquisitors continue to argue, it was only ended once she raised her hand. “Both of you have made your points.” she gestured to Amicus who hasn’t said a word. “What do you think? Lord Inquisitor Amicus?” He was part of the ordo malleus so she suspected a stern response from him. He folded his arms and looked over to Vada and then Galel. “Let them have the sector for now, the xenos are weak and will be easily dealt with in time. What we have to worry about are the cults surging through the sector in the wake of the great scar. They call to their foul masters both tangible and intangible. The threat within is more important than the threat without.” His words caused nods from Galel and Vada. 

Abriela expected this on some level, so she decided to move to the next issue. “I will send in a request to deathwatch then.” Galel shot a look but she ignored it. When it comes to crusades everyone has to be one or they will falter she knows this from experience. She shifted through her papers and picked up the report detailing a certain cult. “I wish to ask all of you...what do you know of genestealers?” “They are a life form belonging to the Tyranid threat.” the answer was from Galel, it was fairly standard and the rest of the inquisitors answered generally the same. Very few understood the true threat that they posed even among the ordo xenos. “You are all correct but that’s just on the surface. They can infect us with their genome.” 

 

As she uttered infection everyone made the sign of the aquila. “They infect and twist the human genome.” she continued. “They transform the human form into something ugly and horrid. A cult that worships the tyranids has sprung up on Astis IV of sub-sector Vasix.” A sense of disquiet descended upon the hall, she had their attention. “These enemies can ignore our faith, they can sweep aside all our training in but a moment. They are the threat within and the threat without. Even Chaos are not a immune to them, many of the warbands if they take slaves of such people will spread their xeno taint among them as well. It’s also been speculated that they can perhaps infect other xenos as well.” Galel’s eyes went wide, Vada made the sign of the Aquila again and as always Amicus was stoic. 

 

She looked up to the statue of the emperor above her and made the sign of the aquila. She then bought her eyes back down. “I wish to have exterminatus enacted upon Astis IV. I want your support.” The decision to destroy a world is not made lightly, Galel shook his head. “Can’t we just purge the taint conventionally?” “No we cannot, I will send all of you information detailing the data I gathered on this threat but I assure you we can’t purge the cult any other way. There is no way to tell if someone is infected save a genetic scan, they could look like you or me and you wouldn’t be able to tell if they are one of the cultists. So do I have you support?” 

 

Every inquisitor became grim, she then told them how the cultists could hypnotise their prey, how there very blood can wipe away one’s faith. After a short discussion none of them gave into weakness. 

 

[Shinros]

Log 2 

 

We examined the genome at length, unravelling it and picking it apart. We all saw the possibilities. The question was the effect it would have on a living subject? We were able to precure a criminal, it was not very hard to obtain him but he would be the perfect subject. So we strapped the criminal down, connected him with every monitor we could think of and then a sample of the genome was injected into his system. The effect was immediate, the genome of specimen 101 warped the criminals DNA. It changed it at a fundamental level. 

 

I expected the 101’s genome to overtake the subject’s DNA violently but instead it fused with it. Blending together in perfect harmony. The criminal’s veins now pulsed purple, he roared at us in anger demanding we release him. 

 

Obviously we did not and moved to the next phase. We did a full examination and what we found was the subject eyes have been changed on a subtle level, he could now see in the dark. Switching off the lights his maddend eyes followed us with ease as well. 

 

The next and most important test was to check if he was aging. That came back as a positive but yet the aging process has slowed slightly. We had confirmation, I had confirmation that if we can harness 101’s genome if we can improve upon it humanity could be uplifted. The next stage was decided the team went to work modifying 101’s genome.

 

Dr Hydian Jackell 

 

Act 2 

Abriela sat at her office desk, the cogitator before her beeped telling her that the deathwatch have been authorised to assassinate the T’au ethereal. She hoped the aliens will react correctly and the death of the ethereal will buy them time to organise an actual crusade. In the end they all chose weakness but at least when it came to dealing with Astis IV a firm hand was shown. She worked through the cogitator organising the extermination fleet but a knock on her door caused her to stop. She looked up “Come in!” she called. 

 

The door opened and the visitor was Amicus with his bodyguards. The inquisitor bowed “I hope I am not bothering you.” Abriela bought her eyes back to the cogitator “what is it?” Amicus coughed and sat down in front of her desk. “I went through the reports on the genestealer cults. I find it...hard to believe.” she caught the hint of weakness, it oozed out of his mouth. “What else is there to say?” Abriela said firmly. “It has been agreed that the world shall be destroyed.” “Well I have been to that world.” Amicus declared. Abriela froze, she frowned at her fellow inquisitor. “I assume you are going to say you found no such cult? You have read the reports? You are aware how they can almost hide in plain sight?” 

 

Amicus nodded to her words, he then gave a wistful sigh. He reached for his helm and removed it. As he placed it on the desk Abriela was about to rise from her desk but one of Amicus’ bodyguards pointed their bolter at her. “Don’t move Abriela, I assure you that if you attempt anything you will be killed.” She clenched her fists, she wore simple carapace armour a bolter at this range would end her. She narrowed her eyes at the mutated inquisitor, she could see that he was one of them. His face was hairless, his head throbbed with purple veins and his eyes were also a sickly yellow colour and his scar was gone as well. 

 

The traitor grinned, and strangely her heart skipped a beat. Abriela wanted to deny that emotion, she refused to believe it was attraction the reports were wrong. I will kill him! She raged to herself. Outwardly she tried to appear calm, she spoke firmly. “What made you fall Amicus?” The traitor relaxed in the chair. “Immortality of course, the research of the twisted Helix can uplift humanity.” “Uplift?” I will definitely kill you, burn your corpse and cast your ashes to the void. Her true thoughts bounced in her mind, but she was trapped at the moment. Her eyes glanced up to the camera, Amicus caught this and waved at it. “Don’t bother, Vada has been converted for months. The staff that worked here were also greatly enticed by my...offers. But….one is missing. Galel is quite the shifty snake.” Amicus shrugged “no matter.” he gestured at one of his guards. “Do it.” 

 

They pulled a strange handgun from their holster, the ammunition chamber was a glass tube that held a purple liquid. She took the opportunity to dive she expected a bullet or a stream of liquid but instead she was assaulted by a purple gas. Abriela coughed as she hit the ground, she felt something worming into her body. Her mind told her to submit, to embrace the enthralling fragrance. She roared out “Never! Never!” she pushed back, she refused to give into weakness. 

 

She tried to stagger up to her feet but as her eyes came up Amicus was before her. He reached down and pulled her up, the strength leant to him via the power armour allowed him to do the motion with ease. He faced her in front of his bodyguard who fired the weapon of corruption. “That is your salvation Abriela.” Amicus hissed. “It was wonderful reading the works of Hydian through the eyes of the blind but you must experience his work to truly understand him.” Abriela fought his grip, it was no use. 

 

Amicus’ bodyguard fired the weapon again, she took the full grunt of the gas. She coughed and gagged, she could feel her defences tumbling. Her mind shifting to accommodate a foul xeno’s creed. Resist! She shouted to herself. The power that began to throb through her veins was far too enticing, her mind burned and then she realised she was becoming part of something bigger. Abriela panted harshly that was when her new brother released his grip upon her. He stood back “welcome...sister.” 

 

She said nothing to him, she didn’t need to. Abriela glanced at her cogitator and canceled the exterminatus order without hesitation. 

 

*** 

Galel was several hundred miles from the city that housed the Taldis conclave. His extraction team should be arriving at any moment. Most wouldn’t have the technology to slip past the defences of this very world but his people are capable of such a feat. When he picked up the sounds of roaring engines and dust began to kick up he shielded his eyes. The sound of clunk meant that the bay doors have been lowered, he removed his hands from his eyes and watched as the stealth field bled from the ship. 

 

From the landing ramp a squad of fire warriors approached him. Galel’s gaze shifted to the Shas’ui. “We must leave quickly.” the tongue of the T’au was not all that difficult to learn but considering his role none would suspect his reasons for learning it. The Shas’ui nodded “You’ve been compromised? The call was urgent.” “No not I, but unfortunately it seems this planet has been compromised.” He always kept out the limelight it was the best way to secure information. He knew the signs of the genestealer infestation, he had greater knowledge than Abriela on the subject but what he did not have is a whole copy of Dr Hydian Jackel’s log. All the information has been stored in a dataslate that was kept in his jacket pocket. 

 

It would be a useful tool for his Aun’o, what surprised him was the fact this ethereal was open to outside information. In the end he only finally joined the T’au because he had enough of the imperium. Whatever this imperium was it was not something worth defending. He has seen too much and dealt too much evil to make excuses for it anymore. He believed the emperor would be appalled seeing the state of his empire if he ever rose from the throne. But there was another issue. “We must hurry Shas’ui the Aun’o’s life is in danger.” he declared. 

 

At the mention of the ethereal they said nothing, they hurried him onto the shuttle. When the doors closed he suspected that the order has already been sent, he hoped they will not be too late. 

 

***

 

Log 3 

 

The genome has been restructured. We took the sample that we created and implanted it into another criminal subject, unlike the previous subject he was calm. He was a serial killer, I doubt any would miss him. We made sure he was chained down, due to the changes of 101’s genome this subject should have increased strength and aging should cease at least almost completely. When the sample was injected into the calm killer he changed right away, he gasped and lurched in the bonds. 

 

Despite appearing agitated he told us he felt wonderful and perhaps even healthy. He smiled and thanked us. My female colleague felt uncomfortable at the gesture. I asked her why and she told me she felt attraction. The news startled all of us, I questioned her but she was adamant that she was attracted to the creature. 

 

I personally have no interest in men, but looking upon the criminal who now had mauve tinted skin, purple veins throbbing across his head and yellow eyes I don’t see how my colleague found this attractive. It was from there that I decided another test was needed, I must procure a female subject. 

 

Dr Hydian Jackell. 

[Shinros]

Log 4

 

We have successfully acquired a female subject, some were unsure whether this procedure was necessary but I wanted to test something. I personally didn’t understand everyone's concern, this woman was tried and convicted as a heretic for worshipping false gods. Despite the protests from the team I readied the sample, that was when the female started to curse me in a strange tongue. It caused blood to trail down my nose, my head began to throb with pain but I had to push past it, for the sake of this research and humanity. With a great amount of struggle I injected the sample. The subject calmed down, she shuddered for a moment and strangely she broke down into tears. 

 

Watching her cry...my heart...was crushed. If I recalled her face she looked innocent, utterly innocent. I couldn’t help but notice a strange beauty as well and a captivating luster in her eyes. My female colleagues noticed this and decided to separate me from the subject, including all male team members. Despite what I feel now at the moment I am trying to think objectively. I wonder if perhaps the genome strengthens and increases pheromone production? That could be the only explanation. Moving this theory forward I now realise that behind the luster of her eyes I saw...a predator. 

 

This...female is a predator that is releasing pheromones for an unknown purpose. I recall that there have been tests with pheromones. A certain amount of it could increase certain...activities in humans. The question is why is that the case? We haven’t added anything to the genome to stimulate such a thing. But I have to admit it’s useful, humanity is besieged and the one advantage we have is human lives. If more children are being born that means more warriors to protect the Imperium. With the added genome those warriors will be powerful and strong as well. 

 

Dr Hydian Jackell 

 

 

Act 1

Aun’o Kaishi walked with his bodyguard detail down the corridor of the ship. Each one was one of Shas’ui, handpicked by him. The leader of this detail was Shas’ui Edil, his efforts within the sub-sector were exemplary and he wanted to speak with the warrior. “So the humans you found, many are resisting the re-education programme.”  Kaishi stated out loud. 

 

Shas’ui Edil knew he was speaking to him, the warrior bowed. “Apologies Aun’o, many among that group are prone to anger.” “Indeed they are but Gue’la Travis has taken well to the greater good. He is a great example of his species.” Kaishi said warmly. Shas’ui Edil bowed again as they walked. “He is a determined warrior Aun’o.” 

 

The short exchange allowed him to gain measure of this young warrior, he will become Shas’vre soon enough he could tell. Strangely he noticed his MV4 drone circling closely above his head. Kaishi raised his eyebrow “your drone seems quite attached.” 

 

Again Shas’ui Edil bowed in apology. “I have taken the MV4 drone to a Fio’el, he said that it was fine.” Aun’o chuckled to this, Shas’ui Edil will understand in time. Drones are like small animals, they grow attached to certain warriors. Despite being a machine when it comes to battle it’s good to have ones you can rely on. Next he moved to his request, he was about to open his mouth but stopped due to the sound of a shifting servo. He looked up to the ceiling above them. 

 

He was about to bark an order but Shas’ui Edil opened fire towards the ceiling, a strange light flickered revealing the form of a large warrior tumbling to the ground.  Across the roof surface more black warriors appeared, shutting off their stealth cloaks. They shot downwards, claws sparking. They tore through his guard detail with ease, Shas’ui Edil grabbed his arm and pulled him down the hallway.  

 

Kaishi grimaced, he expected the Imperium to send their space marine assassins eventually. Their informant warned him of the possibility. He narrowed his eyes at Shas’ui Edil’s drone. “Active code hail of storms.” He looked back to see the black warriors charging towards them with jet packs they would be caught in a few moments. The MV4 drone then beeped. “Plasma carbine emplacements activated.” guns rose from the ground and came down from the ceiling, the large weapons unleashed a hail of blue fire into the warriors. 

 

The assassins avoided the plasma fire gracefully but only a few were cut down, Kaishi could see the defenses would not end them but it will buy them time. “Shas’ui!” The young warrior looked back to him. “Take me to the docking bay!” he ordered. They are normally heavily defended and one was close by. 

 

They came to a cross path and made a left, they continued running and when they arrived at the docking bay what they found were corpses. The docking only held a squad of the black warriors who charged at them holding sparking blades and  huge pistols. Shas’ui Edil let go of his arm and began firing at the assassins. “Take cover Aun’o!” he didn’t waste any time he moved to rush behind a nearby shuttle but he froze. His chest exploded with pain, he looked down to see a chunk of his chest was gone. He glanced at one of the assassins to see they were pointing their smoking pistol at him, their eyes were still focused on the Shas’ui at the same time. Blood erupted from his mouth, Kaishi gasped as he collapsed to the ground. 

 

***

Edil’s eyes widened as the Aun’o fell to the ground, he stopped firing his weapon. Time began to steadily slow down, he didn’t deserve to live he failed completely and utterly. He could see the warriors in black armour pointing their pistols at him. He was ready to accept his death until MV4 released a long dirge of beeps. Every shuttle across the bridge turned and opened fire upon the warriors, they were shredded by the plasma weaponry. 

 

Before he could be suprised by what he just saw he heard the roaring of a jet pack. He turned to see one of the warriors who were chasing him charge out of the corridor. The warrior crashed into him and pinned him to the ground. “Xenos!” the warrior spat. Edil did not retort, the dishonour of his failure clung to form. The warrior raised his claw to end his life but he was sent flying off his body as the guns on the shuttle opened fire. 

 

The docking bay then fell silent, Shas’ui Edil didn’t move, his shame paralyzed him. After a few minutes of lying in the blood of the enemy he heard footsteps. For some reason he sat up to see Shas’o Varish leading Shas’ui Ki’ra along with his squad. They were encircling Aun’el Yuki who stood on a hover drone. She held her honour blade tightly and all them were splattered with the blood of the assassins. He could see her eyes assessing the carnage, she left her guard and drifted over to him. “How did you do this?” she asked firmly. 

 

Shas’ui Edil removed his helm he gave a long sigh. “I have failed Aun’el.” he offered her his head. He could feel her cold gaze on the back of his head, but what she said surprised him. “Shas’o.” “What is your will Aun’el?” “Take Shas’ui Edil to a questioning chamber. He is not a prisoner. I wish to take a moment to examine his drone.” His commander strode up to him, Edil had no desire to shame anyone further. He rose and bowed to his commander.

 

Looking over to Shas’ui Ki’ra he wondered what expression he was making under his helm, for a moment he glanced over to the dead Aun’o and then back to him while shaking his head. Disappointment. He thought. That could be the only thing everyone was thinking in the docking bay.

 

His commander lead him away, but he could not help but think what did the Aun’el want with him? His failure was clear to see. 

 

 

 

[Shinros]

Log 5

 

With time I got used to being around the female test subject, strangely none of the prisoners held the traits of when they were first injected with the genome. The reason why that is the case is that these traits surface when one is emotionally agitated. This was explained by a new member of the team Magos Biologis Gastris. He was the one who sold us specimen 101, I personally did not invite him but the team did. I was not against the decision, his expertise will be useful. 

 

He gave us a great amount of information on the genome which allowed us to further improve it. When I got some time alone with Gastris I asked him why he had interest in our research, he stated he agreed with the idea of it hence why he has done his own work in secret. But more can be done in a team. I could understand that sentiment well but what shook me to my core was when he told me that he has already injected himself with the genome of the“prime” specimen. 

 

What this prime specimen was I had no idea, when I questioned him on the subject he told me I will get to meet the specimen at the end of my team’s research. As he stated that requirement just for a moment I felt...hesitation. What did he mean by prime? I also disliked how he said the name with a slight amount of...reverence.  

 

Perhaps I am overthinking it? At the end of the day the resources the Magos provides to our work will carry us further.

 

Dr Hydian Jackell  

 

 

Act 2

Travis sat at the table of the mess hall, he has just been promoted to Gue'vesa. He would celebrate but out of his group he was the only one who had taken what the T’au was teaching them to heart. He looked around the hall, he saw an assortment of different races working on conjunction. He was taught since birth to hate the alien, to despise them with all his heart but ever since joining the T’au he has realised that not all xeno’s are bad. He even made a few friends and that shocked him. He wished desperately that the others would come to the same conclusions that he has. 

 

Strangely the Por’el, who essentially was a diplomat and their teacher described how he could keep his faith. All they did was ask them logical questions, the Emperor wants humanity preserved and to prosper. They detailed several religious texts that described this very notion across thousands of books, but that does not match the reality of the imperium. People going blind in factories, innocents being burned at the stake for crimes they haven’t committed. All the while corrupt nobles and priests grow fat on the labours below them, offering nothing to the wider imperium save destitution. The T’au saved Vashira and instead of placing their own government in charge they chose a human. From Travis’ understanding he was a young nobleman who sought to save their world despite the rest of the nobility fleeing. The culture and edicts of the planet hasn’t changed save the fact that people are being treated better. 

 

Everything that has been drummed into his mind throughout his life he was slowly finding that they aren’t true. It’s coming to the point that perhaps...the Emperor might be part of the greater good in some capacity? He hasn’t been stricken down or cursed for his engagement with the alien or was suffering nightmares for his supposed heresy. For once in his life he felt at peace. 

 

He turned back to his meal and grinned “the rations aren’t half bad either.” He was about to dig in until his friend sat in front of him. Ki’ra seemed oddly tense as their eyes met, he was his military instructor and they have already bonded through Ta’lissera. “Is something wrong?” Shas’ui Ki’ra smiled, he began to relax somewhat “You’ve gotten better at speaking our dialect.” “I’ve been studying, but you seem on edge.” Ki’ra sighed “I am worried about Shas’ui Edil.” He hasn’t seen much of Shas’ui Edil since the T’au saved Vashira, he respected the warrior and for some reason when you were in his presence he bolstered one’s confidence. “I hope...he isn’t in trouble.” Travis said meekly. “No he is not.” Ki’ra answered. Travis had the feeling Ki’ra was hiding something, so he didn’t pry further. The Shas’ui gave him a weak smile, he then sighed “ An...issue came up, which has harmed the heart of Shas’ui Edil. I worry for his warrior heart, he takes so much upon himself. I suspect that’s why he is seeking advice from Aun’el Yuki.” 

 

Travis watched the fire warrior pick through his food, he could see that even T’au worry much like humans. “Trust in the Aun’el, the ethereal might be perceive something we can’t see.” Ki’ra chuckled “true, now let us eat. Acting downtrodden can wear on one’s spirit.”

 

He nodded to that, as he began eating his mind drifted to his comrades again. He prayed that they would stop resisting and would see the benefits the T’au could bring to humanity. 

 

***

Edil sat at the desk, Aun’el Yuki was sitting across from him. She said nothing since she entered this cold iron room. He wasn’t cuffed and he had a decent meal as well. But he could not help but feel he was a prisoner, worse should be done for his failure. Aun’el Yuki bought her hands together. “Shas’ui T’pos Edil….” she said smoothly. “Tell me, how do you feel about Aun’o Kaishi’s death?” Edil frowned, his heart was wracked with sadness and shame. “What can I say Aun’el? I should not be alive. I shamed myself, I failed...I allowed the assassins to kill the Aun’o.” The ethereal nodded solemnly “I can understand why you are upset, the Aun’o taught me much before he passed. But he made a mistake.” 

 

Edil tensed, he didn’t understand where this conversation was going. Aun’el Yuki gave him a small smile. “We’ve have not learnt the lessons of the fourth sphere expansion, their anger was misplaced, directed at the auxiliaries….” Edril raised his eyebrow, but he listened carefully the ethereal she must be imparting wisdom to him. “Shas’ui, we do not yet understand the enemies we seek to face or those who we bring into the greater good. Where my viewpoint separates with my departed teacher is how we deal with those who seek the destruction of the greater good.”  The Aun’el rose from her chair and began pacing around the room. “We should hate them.” she stated firmly. 

 

Edil detected no malice in her voice, he could not even hear a hint of anger. He wanted to say something but his place was not to question the wisdom of the Aun caste. Aun’el Yuki’s eyes bore into him, like she could read his mind. “Anger makes us slow, anger makes us weak.” She stated out loud. “I disagree with that thought, anger has a place but it must be directed at the right point. So tell me Shas’ui, aren’t you angry at the assassins for killing our Aun’o? Aren’t you angry that they slaughtered Gue’la, Kroot, vespid and Tau in order to control that docking bay? They murdered our citizens for their ideology of destruction.” 

 

Shas’ui saw flashes of Aun’o Kaishi’s pained face, his corpse slowly tumbling to the ground. He remembered the guard detail being slaughtered and the corpses in the docking bay. He let loose an exasperated sigh. “I wish I could of done more…” he said through gnashed teeth. Aun’el Yuki placed her hand on his shoulder. “You were lucky that your MV4 drone was looking out for you. It will be important to your future.” He watched her remove her hand from his shoulder, he frowned at the mention of future. “Aun’el...what do you mean by future? I am not going to be punished for my failure?” 

 

The ethereal shook her head “many of us have to consider the future, I will be Aun’o soon. Then the T’pos expansion will continue but I need reliable warriors and a great commander. So I have decided to prepare a trial of fire for you. If you wish to continue serving the greater good I am sure you will accept or I can have you executed for your perceived failure.”

 

The Aun’el returned to her seat, she waited for his answer. Edil clutched his hands now that the choice was on the table. He felt choosing death would shame the memory of the departed Aun’o. He would want him to continue to serve the greater good. “I will do the trial of fire. I wish to serve the greater good.” 

 

When he gave his answer the Aun’el was extremely pleased. “You chose well Shas’ui…” He didn’t know what this trial will entail, but he was ready. They must make a show of power if they are to defend the citizens of the T’au.    

 

 

 

Log 6

 

We are making leaps and bounds in our research. I think we have arrived at the point where 101’s genome can uplift humanity. We have still not been able to reduce the visual effects of the genome. In the end the benefits outweigh the small physical changes, also they only appear when one is agitated. All of the team were in high spirits and that was when Magos Gastris suggested that we should go see the prime specimen.  

 

The offer was enticing, perhaps if we examine this prime specimen we could improve our genome further? I barely had to push for us to pursue this path. Everyone was ready and eager. 

 

I am not one to let my excitement get out of hand but I couldn’t personally wait to examine the creature. This excitement was quelled when one of the team spoke of the test subjects. These past few days they have been calm, normal procedure would be to disposed of them which Gastris offered to do. 

 

His connections to the Adeptus Mechanicus will allow us to get rid of them without much fuss. Everything went smoothly and now we are close to the dream. 

 

Dr Hydian Jackell  

 

[Shinros]

Log 7

 

The team has been disbanded, we all went our separate ways after meeting the Prime Specimen. Ever since that pivotal moment, my eyes have been opened. I thought nothing was wrong as we entered the Adeptus Mechanicus facility. Nothing seemed out of place as well. The peace only lasted for a moment until the servitors apprehended us. The terror I felt during that time was now a distant memory but I can still feel it somewhat. In our foolishness we called for help but none of the tech priests paid any mind to our plight. Magos Gastris had us “escorted” through the facility. He took us to the basement floor and as he were dragged into the chamber that was when I saw the Prime Specimen. 

 

He sat on a throne of bone and flesh, tubes were connected to his body that pumped black liquid into his majestic form and it’s head pulsed with psychic energy. When it’s thoughts brushed against my mind I felt it’s staggering intellect squeezing my brain like a sponge. He showed me how my research could be improved, he enlarged my dream to uplift humanity to the stars and he made it clear to me that there is nothing to fear from it’s genome. 

 

The servitors then pulled us up to the Prime Specimen and with it’s sharp tongue it pricked us on the neck one at a time. Before it came to my turn I recall that the tongue was throbbing, like the Prime Specimen was injecting something into my colleagues. It was only when I was graced that I understood what was happening. The great creature was improving us, now that his DNA is mixed with my own I can now appreciate his vision. The Prime Specimen, despite his visage he is scientist, a great one.  

 

When the deed was done he ordered us to continue our research separately. He bade us to return in six months with results. Strangely now that I am writing this I find the competition thrilling and certain moral concerns were no longer holding me back. The Prime Specimen demanded results and I will deliver them. 

 

Dr Hydian Jackell 

 

 

[Shinros]

Act 1

 The shuttle shuddered as it journeyed through the void, soon they will make planet fall.  Magus Tanitha murmured a prayer for those unable to make the journey to Paradise and for those who died along the way. She was guided to this world through visions and sweat inducing dreams. Many of her fellow Magi of the other gene-sects of her homeworld of Laxia were against the pilgrimage, but she knew their intentions. They desired to rule due to that vacuum left by their Patriarch who was assassinated by astartes. 

 

To her shock a great number of her own gene-sect and even her Primus thought her mad, that she was placing her own desires above the needs of the Coiling Dragon. They sought to use the edicts of the saints to deter her but she knew they were simply afraid of the unknown. They were afraid to have their faith truly tested. Her eyes shifted to the chosen few that have survived the harrowing journey. Her Locus barely moved as the shuttle rattled and buckled, he didn’t even grace her with a look but per his role that was expected. Sotha was a silent soul until killing had to be done. Next was brood brother Azath his yellow eyes were clear with worry. +Be at peace, we have arrived.+ Her psychic message caused the brood brother to relax he almost slouched in his seat, he bowed his head to her “I-I am not worthy.” 

 

She gave a small smile to his modesty We are all worthy. She thought. They have all made the journey to paradise. The Cargo Hulk they used to get here was a mess, it was battered by warp storms, they were attacked by pirates and heretics. This pilgrimage in her mind was a trial for all of them and they have passed. Her gaze then fell upon brood sister Zortha, she was praying fervently to mask her fear, when their eyes met she began praying quietly. 

 

Tanitha then made stock of the rest of her followers, seeing the number her heart ached with sadness. Those of her homeworld would forever be blind, trapped by their on misconceptions, they are too afraid to push beyond the horizon.

 

Much has been placed upon her by the Coiling Dragon she was chosen to be the great shepherd to Paradise. Her god wanted his people to reach their holy land so they can live as one. 

 

The vox then clicked on, the pilot seemed joyous. “My lady we will be making planetfall in a few minutes!” The shuttle erupted into a clamour of shouts and worship with that announcement. She should calm her followers but decided against it. A little happiness couldn’t hurt. Like the pilot said after a few minutes the shuttle rocked heavily due to landing and as the systems powered down Tanitha undid the belts on her seat and rose. 

With a simple gesture she silenced her followers. “We have come far, sacrificed much in order to get here. My brothers and sisters...we have arrived at Paradise!” The landing ramp fell, everyone stared at the light. Tanitha walked onward, she should be first as was her birthright. 

 

She was blinded by the light for a moment when she stepped down the ramp but as the light ebbed away she found herself in a jungle. They landed in the middle of a small clearing. She smiled joyfully but what captivated her were the giant mountains in the distance, they were pulsing like they were alive. Through the very ground as well she could feel a low rumble, her mind was burning, she could feel her god in the very air and the ground she stood upon. She dropped to his knees and bought her hands together in prayer. “Praise be the Coiling Dragon….Praise be…” After repeating the mantra a few times she stood up, she was about to face her congregation until a rustling sound came from the nearby bushes. Sotha shot to her side and drew his blade, his tail rose upwards slightly ready to strike whatever left the bushes, but what left it was not an enemy but distant kin. 

 

The man held a staff topped with a vox and his mining overalls were a mix of white and green. A trail of cables were connected to the vox on his staff and his backpack. He raised one hand “I come in peace pilgrims.” Tanitha gently placed her hand on Sotha’s shoulder, she could sense that this one was no threat to them. “Calm yourself Locus.” Her shield returned his blade to it’s sheath and stepped back.

 

She then regarded the man “who are you?” she asked. The strange individual came forward and bowed before her. “I am Aldren, one of the many voices of new truths that preach the holy word.” Tanitha raised her eyebrow “the word of the Coiling Dragon? You preach his holy word?” Aldren smiled warmly at her, like she was a child. It was the sort of smile her grandmother would give her, that she understood some truth that she would never be able to grasp. A part of her hated her for that. “Are you looking down upon me?” Arc’s of warp lightning threaded her red robes, but Aldren was unmoved by the display. 

 

She raised her hand to obliterate him but a great shriek in the distance stopped her, the voice of new truths frowned. “Be careful with your powers my lady, the star children dislike when you disturb them. We have been blessed to be among them, but don’t think they will not hesitate to kill us and throw our dead bodies into the pools to finish their holy work. Try not to...agitate them.” Again this individual thought he had more knowledge than her. Who was he to lecture a Magus on the star children? “I’ve seen pictures Aldren, I know what they are.” “Do you truly know them?” he asked. “For you see the Coiling Dragon is one facet of a greater whole. Just like how the star children work the great will of Void. On this world Tiamet labours for the great void, to build…” his voice trailed off he mumbled for a moment. “They seek to build an object that would ensure the will of the Void can be pressed upon this galaxy.”

 

She couldn’t believe what she was hearing, she crossed her arms. “I wish to speak to your Magus.” Aldren bowed again “if you would follow me my lady, make sure your congregation sticks close. None of you have completed the bonding so there is no telling how the star children would react to your presence.” 

 

Tanitha hoped that once she meets the Magus she will get some answers, for she doubted that Aldren voiced any sort of truth. 

 

*** 

 

Azath was among the crowd, he wanted to be near the front and be at the side of Magus Tanitha. He didn’t trust Aldren, he could see the Magus was uneasy. In the end he had to trust Locus Sotha for he was her shield. Despite the lies the voice of new truths was spreading, everyone was in discussion about the things Aldren was announcing to them along the journey through the jungle. He spoke of the green pits which were used by the star children to convert beings into biomass, he then pointed out the large holy creatures that strode through jungle were Carnifexes. He regaled them a story where he saw the them tear apart intruders who sought to disrupt the great work. 

 

But what he couldn’t believe was the pulses he felt under his feet was the voice of the Void itself or of the Coiling Dragon. He was taught that the great Dragon was a beast that would uplift them into the light and now a possible heretic was telling him that the Dragon was but a small facet of a greater whole? He shifted around the crowd to find Zortha, as they met she smiled at him. “What’s wrong?” Azath leaned in towards his brood sister “Do you believe this...heretic?” he whispered. His brood sister became lost in thought, he could sense that was unsure. “Maybe…” she tapped her lips with her finger. “I mean we came here despite the protests of the faith. To all of them were are heretics, Aldren seems to have also lived in Paradise for awhile.” He could not help but strangely agree with Zortha, he recalled the protests and the shouts that they were denying salvation. Some even tried to have them killed when they were leaving the world. 

 

But looking around at the scuttling star children he could die happy knowing that he has actually seen the face of the star children that they covert. He has seen the beings that would lift them up into the stars and if Aldren speaks truly he has seen the process of how it was done. They would be broken down and remade into pure forms unfettered and directed by the Coiling Dragon. “Still many of those who are blind think that our only goal should be to ascend to the stars, they are wrong.” Aldren announced.  

 

Silence washed over the crowd, Azath shook his head “seems he is a heretic Zortha.” His brood sister grimaced he could see she agreed with him. His Magus was less than impressed with Aldren’s chosen words. 

 

The rest of the journey was made in silence, the voice of new truths kept speaking but he didn’t spark any discussion.  He lead them to an entrance of a cave, it was marred with people. All them wore green robes similar to the star children that walked this world, their distant kin regarded them but in their eyes he strangely could see they were looking down upon them all. It was only when an old man wearing a blindfold exited the cave and those staring at them dropped to their knees. The old man was surrounded by four loci who held up icons of the scared wyrm. 

 

He watched the voice of new truths guide his Magus to the blind man, it was obvious that she was not impressed. She folded her arms and tutted “what sort of cult have you created?” she asked. Azath picked up the malice in her voice, he smiled he knew how powerful she was he has seen her destroy Space Marines with her psychic might. Lady Tanitha scanned their kneeling kin. “Where I come from we tear out the tongues of those who speak heresy.” 

 

The blind old man grinned “or perhaps you merely fear what they wish to say? Is you faith that weak? That brittle?” “You dare to insult my faith?” Tanitha’s voice was level but it was evident to him that if a false move was made a battle would break out. Azath reached for the hilt of his ritual blade. He waited for the order. 

 

The blind heretic stroked his chin “yet your faith was founded for the wrong purpose. Your grandmother seeks to turn you into a weapon, she raised you to be a vehicle of vindication. Coming here you have already betrayed her will, you seek to serve the great choir, the Orchestrator Prime. The thundering voice that will rule all.” “I already serve the Coiling Dragon, your...god is flawed. How can you not want to ascend? What do you hope to gain?”

 

Azath prayed for the order, he had enough of hearing heresy. He looked around, he could see everyone was ready to fight for their faith. Tanitha just had to give the order, she didn’t even need to speak the words. The blind priest then smiled at his Magus “what do I hope to gain? I merely wish to guide pilgrims to the correct path. Tell me, do you know why the paths have been covered with leaves from the jungle? That was intentional. Look….” 

 

The old man knelt slightly clearing away the large leaves in front of him to reveal the ground, it was fleshy and pulsed like a heart. Azath looked down to the ground w-we are walking on flesh!? He didn’t know what to think, the congregation rumbled with shock. Tanitha gestured her hand over them, the panic ceased. Azath felt a wave of calm wash over him, he took a deep breath and narrowed his eyes at the priest who sought to deceive them. His Magus then glared at the deceiver “you are a test aren’t you? To see if my faith is strong? I won’t be deceived. Our numbers are greater, we can overwhelm you.” “Is that what you think?” the old man answered back.

 

His Magus chuckled she raised her hand, that was the order. They all drew blades and guns, but as they did so a great cry erupted from the jungle. The ground began to shudder, but it was not due to the pulsing Azath could sense it was something else. The shrubs and bushes around them was trampled, they were surrounded by carnifexes, their heads swayed like they were assessing the situation. Azath gulped and gripped his knife tightly, his eyes drifted to the blind priest, he was shaking his head. “How about you put away your weapons? I don’t want the star children to kill you. Let’s try to be civil, to truly understand of what I speak of touch the ground with you hand.”

 

He wanted to shout that his Magus should refuse, it was clear that the congregation didn’t trust these heretics. Yet Tanitha was kneeling, she was about to touch the ground until Locus Sotha placed his hand on her shoulder. He watched her give the shield a reassuring nod, which caused the Locus to remove his hand from his charge’s shoulder. “N-No...d-don’t. T-They are lying.” His voice was meek, he doubted that anyone heard him.

 

Her hand was about to touch the pulsing ground, but she stopped just for a moment. +Calm yourselves, do you doubt me? How dare you all? My faith is strong, I will show them that all of them are on the wrong path.+ Her voice passed through his mind. He dropped to his knees as did the whole congregation, they all prayed for forgiveness. He was a fool to doubt the might and faith of his Magus, whatever will happen he knew she will prove the heretics wrong.

 

***

Log 8

 

I now have a new personal lab, one that will see me to victory. I have began gathering malcontents and criminals to be used as test subjects. Gazing at the strapped down specimens I realised that the layers of morality that have clogged my thought process has been stripped away. I didn’t care if they died, I didn’t care if they would become absolute monsters and I didn’t care care whether I will be caught or not. 

 

So...I worked upon them, twisting the genome trying different variations and the results were quite interesting. Some of the subjects grew extra limbs, others became absolute monsters. I found those that mutated aggressively became wonderful guardians of my lab. They were slow and stupid, with the correct balance of drugs and chemicals I can easily control them. 

 

Yet all of them were failures, save two of them. Subject 5 and Subject 12. Both specimens were...perfect. They reacted well to my genome treatment. Subject 5 was female, she was a homeless woman who had lost everything. But with my work she was now strong and beautiful. Subject 12 was the same, he was a member of a gang who sought to break into my lab. Both of them were the key, they both looked extremely close to humans save the bone ridges that lined their forehead. 

 

They were also hairless as well, but that is a minor concern. It was the same with the purple veins that threaded their heads if they are agitated. I knew with just a bit more tweaking I will arrive at the result I am looking for. 

 

Dr Hydian Jackell 

[Shinros]

Act 2

Tanitha fingers were so close to the ground, she wasn’t scared but it was clear that the blind priest was planning something. Whatever that plan was she will face it head on, she kept her eyes on the priest as she touched the ground. She was about to say something as nothing happened but those words died as everyone around her vanished. 

 

She was kneeling in an empty space, there was nothing save darkness. She slowly stood up and looked around. “Wh-” The darkness bled away to reveal the void of space, they were no planets save the light of the stars. She instinctively grasped her throat, she wondered why she could still breathe. She was in space, she could feel the cold yet ice was not thawing over her body and she could still breathe yet those gasps for oxygen strained her lungs. 

 

For once in her life she was terrified, utterly terrified. But that fear turned to horror as the stars came together to form a great monstrosity with four arms. It’s body was humanoid but it’s head was shaped as one of the star children. It’s eyes were obscured by green chitin, but it’s black tongue was hanging out of a set of jaws. Tanitha dropped to her bottom, she didn’t know what she landed on and that fact made her entire situation more grim. She tried to mouth a scream but all she could do was gasp for air, she watched the creatures mouth move and the sound that came from it was a song, one that was sang in a flat tone. 

 

It’s voice as identifiable, she couldn’t determine if it was male or female, but it’s voice was utterly destroying all she knew. Millions of images slammed into her mind, from her past, to her leading her gene-sect, it showed wars and battles from time periods she was not even aware of. She could feel her own lifeblood streaming down her eyes and and mouth. When the images and song ceased she keeled over and vomited. This was another mystery, her bile seemed to line a floor but she was in space.

 

She looked up to the monster before her, it began pulling at the stars forming a sector. It then pointed at certain sub-sectors and planets, while moving its mouth. “A-Are you ordering me to do something?” she asked. 

 

The creature shifted it’s head in her direction, a great void filled her mind and again she battered with a host of visions and it’s song. She couldn’t make sense of them, she couldn’t understand why it was tormenting her. She crumpled upon her own bile, she screamed in agony until the creature decided to stop it’s assault. She glanced up to the monster, her body was weak, her mind was weak, she didn’t know what to do. 

 

The creature then began to pick at certain worlds, it reached out and crushed planet. Astis IV she thought to herself. She trembled as she mentioned the name within her mind she has never heard of the world before but it was strangely familiar to her. It’s hand then moved to another sub-sector, it then crushed the planet Vashira and Alvadis. It’s head then drifted to another set of worlds one which housed the Taldis Conclave. It was crushed as well. The creature then returned to sub-sector that housed Astis IV, it picked out a planet and instead of destroying it the creature clutched the planet in its claws. 

 

It offered the world to her. Whatever this thing was it was offering a planet, she reached out her hand trembling with the movement. Tanitha didn’t understand why she was reaching for it or why monster kept the world slightly away from her fingers. The creature began singing to her again but it’s voice didn’t cause pain, it comforted her it told her that it was alright. She didn’t have to follow a vindictive woman, she didn’t have to feel bad for those who can’t hear or see it’s message. 

 

The song told her that she will be one voice among the many that will spread it’s creed.

 

Tanitha gasped again, she blinked and she found herself lying on a bed. Right away she touched her face and mouth, there was no bile or blood. She couldn’t taste it either. She stared at the ceiling to see rock looking down upon her. Like the ground it was pulsing slightly. “You’re awake.” She shot up and sitting on a chair at her bedside was the blind priest. Her Locus Sotha was standing over the man “W-What happened?” she asked. “You saw only what the great void wanted you to see.” answered the priest.

 

Tanitha rubbed her temples “I saw...a four armed creature and...a sector.” Flashes of the great monster threaded her version as she saw it instead of fear lining her heart it was adoration. It’s first song was terrifying and powerful, it caused pain but the next song was soothing and it set her at ease.

 

She shook her head it’s not a god...It’s… She couldn’t deny it, she tried to think of the god she served in the past but she was drawing a blank. Tanitha couldn’t imagine any other god save the orchestrator prime, the beast that dominates the stars. She stared at the blind priest “who are you? Did...you do something to me?” “I did nothing, trust me the vision is different for everyone. But we are all bonded to the choir.” The priest smiled at her. “I am known as the Conduit, I led my people to freedom, I lead them to the paradise. This very planet which is called Ziaphoria.” The Conduit looked up to her Locus “see? She is fine and now her mind has been opened.” 

 

The Locus frowned, he didn’t voice a complaint for that was not his place. Tanitha bought her legs down the bed so she could sit properly. She examined her surroundings carefully and it was clear she was in a cave, she guessed that her fellow followers created a tunnel network. Fellow followers? She blinked in confusion “I….” she didn’t want to voice a dark possibility. Has she been brainwashed? Her thoughts were clear but she couldn’t help feel that something was wrong, that she was doing something terribly wrong. The Conduit placed his hand on her shoulder. “You now question what the void requires of you? Since you are a Magus I cannot exactly instruct you. Have your congregation live among us, perhaps you will find your path then?” 

 

Tanitha listened to the Conduit, he spoke the truth this was doubt. One that she was used to facing. She was about to accept the Conduit’s offer until her eyes locked with Sotha’s, they betrayed his opinion. She could see that he wanted her to refuse, but how could she? They were in paradise, she now had a divine purpose and perhaps with prayer and contemplation the way will become clear? She smiled at the priest “I accept, we would be happy to live among you.” 

 

***

 

Log 9

 

Soon it will be time to display my research to the Prime Specimen, I suspect my rivals have developed something but that didn’t matter. I knew what I have developed will impress the lead scientist of our fraternity. Subject 5 and 12 were my assistants now, their brain power and strength went beyond that of a normal human. I even took both subjects to a noble gathering, cleaning them up and disguising the bone ridges as jewellery they became the talk of the night. 

 

Both of them received ten marriage offers, the nobles didn’t even ask for their backgrounds. I made sure that I recorded this experiment using my servo skull, this event will be perfect to demonstrate what I have done.    

 

Yet I feel I haven’t done enough, there is one more way I can prove what I have developed. I decided that I will use the genome on myself. What better way to show that it works than test it on myself?

 

Dr Hydian Jackell

 

[Shinros]

Act 3

She was on her knees, her eyes were closed. She prayed before an Orchestrator, it’s soothing voice guided her through the verses. +You wish to search your visions again?+ She nodded to his words. Tanitha desired to check the visions one more time. 

 

Through prayer and meditation she has now made some sense of the visions bestowed to her, it only took half a year but it was done. She must bring the creed of Tiamet to the Taldis sector. Her work will begin in the Axiam sub-sector. She will go to the planet of Gisis and purge it of heresy. 

 

The worst thing about the world was the heretic hiding upon it, he twists and uses the blood of the void for his own ends. That must be corrected, she could see his lab hidden among the dunes away from the cities and tram tracks that connect them. She slowly opened her eyes and looked up to the Patriarch it’s mind was pulsing, throbbing with the power of the void. 

 

She smiled at the Orchestrator “it’s clear to me, I can see it clearly.” +Very well..are ready to carry the voice and creed of Tiamet?+ “I am.” The patriarch then pointed at the exit. He said nothing further, for he had no need to speak. Tanitha stood upright, she grasped her staff tightly and turned away from the shard of her god. She walked down the aisle of the temple and strangely her heart was heavy. She would miss the smell of incense drifting from the swaying censers, she would miss praying before the Orchestrator but her place was not here. 

 

The shard has armed her with knowledge and power, she has grown into a true priestess of the Void. She approached her Locus who was waiting at the entrance. “We’re leaving.” The Locus bowed, his green robes twitched slightly. She assumed that was his tail, in its rarity Loci can have bouts of excitement. She then left the temple, her Locus hovered behind her and as she came outside Azath was waiting. He bowed “my lady.” Looking at the bowing brood brother she recalled how her congregation resisted touching the pulsing ground but with a bit of “encouragement” they saw her way of things.

 

His head was now shaved, but ever since joining the choir she found it interesting how many among the brood brothers and sisters have ridges just like those of the 4th generation. “Tell me Azath how is Zortha?” “She is well Magus, she is waiting at the shuttle. Our brothers and sisters are guarding her closely. With the help of our kin our cargo hulk is ready.” “Well done Azath, we can’t have anything happening to the woman who will birth our Orchestrator.” She offered the back of her hand, the brood brother’s eyes darted to her and to the hand she was offering rapidly. “I-I can’t…” Azath said weakly.

 

Tanitha raised her eyebrow, she could see why he was refusing. She smirked at the brood brother “Do you seek to disrespect me?” “N-No!” he answered. “Then get on your knees and take my gift.” The brood brother dropped to his knees, she could see in his eyes that dispute his denial he was in the throes of religious rapture. Azath gently took her hand and kissed the back of it, the lingering smell of the incense marking her body must make it all the worse.

 

He was shaking as his lips came back from her hand. He slowly staggered up as if he was intoxicated. Tanitha frowned “enough, focus we are leaving.” At her order he turned alert, he was still somewhat absorbed with what just happened but she could see he was focused.  Azath fell in behind her as she continued making her way down the tunnels. 

 

Her kin made the holy sign as they passed, they placed three digits upon their chest mimicking the hands of the Orchestrator and it’s minor kin. Silent prayers were made and as she passed them she blessed them. Upon leaving the cave she breathed in the fresh air of the world. She was surprised that she didn’t see the Conduit along the way, but she expected he was meeting with other pilgrims. 

 

Tanitha retraced her steps through the jungle, the same path Aldren lead them down. When she arrived at the shuttle her congregation bowed, their robes and tabards were green. She ignored the gesture and approached Zotha, she was clutching her large stomach. “H-How soon?” she asked. She was nervous, Tanitha suspected she had no idea that she would be blessed to carry the child that would guide their faith on Gisis. She was two months pregnant, in about a month or two she will go into labour. “It will be soon.” She placed her hand on her stomach, she felt the Orchestrator kick slightly. “Soon…” she whispered. 

 

She removed her hand addressed her fellows “we are going back! We’ve found paradise and now we will bring the creed of Tiamet to the unfaithful! Ready yourselves!” Her followers cheered, they were eager to begin their holy work. The journey back across the rift will be arduous but she knew they will make it. She has seen it.

 

***

Log 10

 

My body was wracking with pain when I injected the genome into my system. It took time to vanish but in its place I have gained strength...and power. My dark skin holds ridges like subject 5 and 12 but that didn’t matter. I have proof, I am proof.

 

When the time comes to present my work I can’t be discredited.  The difference between myself and my old team is that I can go all the way. They didn’t truly believe in the dream.

 

I will be exalted, I will be the one to ensure humanity will be uplifted. 

 

Dr Hydian Jackell