This time, Horus had brought only a handful of the Luna Wolves' most elite guards. It showed that he had not come to provoke anyone, but it was also born of the pride that refused to let him appear weak before his "brother." He had expected Lorgar's wariness or questioning, but instead received an unusually warm embrace, one that even carried a trace of... gratification.
Lorgar gave his equally towering brother a firm hug, patting the finely crafted power armor on his back. His tone was sincere. "Welcome, Brother Horus."
The unexpected warmth left Horus somewhat stunned. The anger he had been building, prepared to demand an explanation, deflated like a punctured balloon with a long hiss.
He even returned the embrace on instinct, muttering inwardly, What's gotten into Lorgar today? Is he deliberately acting so magnanimous because Father is here?
Just as Horus's suspicions began to ease, a figure he had never expected strolled out from around the corner of the corridor behind Lorgar.
The Emperor of Mankind was not wearing the golden power armor that symbolized his supreme authority, nor was he draped in sacred robes. Instead, he wore a dark blue coverall stained with suspicious grease and seasoning marks, its sleeves rolled up to his elbows. In his hand were several skewers of sizzling grilled meat, dripping with oil and giving off an irresistible aroma.
When he saw Horus, an extraordinarily hearty smile appeared on his face, one that even carried a touch of common-earthiness. He strode forward and familiarly patted Horus's shoulder guard with his free hand.
"Son! You came at just the right time!" The Emperor's voice held a lightness Horus had never heard before. "I made some barbecue. Since you're here, have a bite with us! Perfect, I can introduce you to a friend."