You weren't exiled by Corax, but regained your freedom

Live, you need only obey my decree.

922.M30.

Terra orbit, Kraken.

The former Legion Master of the XIX Legion, Alkahas Phall, stepped down from the Aquila Shuttle with a brooding expression.

The members of the Honor Guard all froze. Even the youngest among them had followed Lord Alkahas for more than thirteen years, and could sense the subtle shifts in his mood.

Ever since the Primarch Corvas Corax had been welcomed back, Lord Alkahas's usually calm eyes had always shone with a dazzling light. Now, a lingering gloom had gathered in them.

His pale skin had grown paler still, and his pitch-black pupils were empty.

Alkahas swept his gaze over his Honor Guard. He offered no explanation, only said to the captain of the guard, "Take the item The Emperor entrusted to me to my private armory."

"Yes, my lord." The captain's tone was cold and solemn, showing not the slightest delight at having earned the Master of Mankind's trust and taken on an honorable task.

The Honor Guard watched Lord Alkahas leave uneasily, then followed in silence beside their captain.

"You will know soon enough..." Facing their searching gazes, the captain said, "Lord Alkahas will announce our future fate before we set sail."

His voice was low, his eyes dim.

In the captain's quarters, Alkahas stood in silence as a Servitor removed his Power Armor for him.

He snatched up a black robe, put it on quickly, and strode toward an inner compartment.

He raised his hand and pressed it to the control panel. Green Runes leapt to life.

The instant the hatch opened, Alkahas walked inside impatiently.

He quickly inspected the altar. After confirming that the candles were burning and that the Iron Law of the Monarch was placed correctly, he used the ritual dagger made of Double-Number