"I won't accept this! I'll never betray Father!"
As expected, Jeanne reacted fiercely. Even among Space Marines, betraying a Primarch was something no one should accept.
Looking at Jeanne's defiant expression, Jonson knew he couldn't take Hogg's supplies for nothing. This difficult problem had landed on his shoulders, and he had to solve it.
"This isn't betrayal. It's your father's own order. Do you want to defy Hogg's wishes?"
Without giving Jeanne a chance to speak, Jonson pressed on. "No sacrifice is too great to accept, and no betrayal is too small to forgive. I'm Lion Jonson. No one understands that better than I do. But the problem is, only the Swarm won't be affected by emotions. You are the best blade for the job.
"If we had plenty of time, we wouldn't have to resort to this. But look around us. We're surrounded by enemies, from the Warp to the void between the stars. This is the only window of opportunity we have."
The pressure he had accumulated over many years made the Lion look even more haggard. Compared to the other Primarchs, he had become a middle-aged man. That was why Hogg had approached him: among all his brothers, he was the most fanatical.
And fanatics would pursue their chosen goal at any cost.
Jeanne's braids slowly drooped, and the bright green glow in her eyes dimmed. After years together, Jonson knew that meant his niece was feeling down.
A large hand came to rest on Jeanne's head. Jonson did his best to put on his kindest smile. Although it looked rather terrifying, he still tried his utmost to comfort her.
"Since Hogg handed you over to me, that means he's already got some scheme in mind. Have faith in your father. Even if you don't, I'll believe