The Spartans stood like silent silver statues at key tactical points, their cold helmets sweeping the surroundings.
Their very presence was a wordless declaration—efficient, lethal, unpredictable.
Azrael and the Dark Angels Inner Circle Terminators standing solemnly behind him resembled a wall of dark green steel.
Beneath their Adamantium faceplates, wary gazes shifted between the silver-armored warriors and the leading Spartan.
The lead Spartan's armor was heavier in design, with a distinctive golden insignia on his shoulder plate. He was Master Chief John.
After a brief silence, John stepped forward. His voice came through his armor's amplifier, steady and direct, without the slightest pleasantry:
"Commander John of the Hilling Empire Forerunner Fleet's Spartan Squad. We have come to eliminate the Tyranid threat and confirm the security situation here. Is further assistance required?"
Azrael's gaze flickered slightly beneath his Adamantium faceplate. The other party's attitude was concise and straightforward, getting directly to the point without probing or unnecessary formalities.
"Azrael, Supreme Grand Master of the Dark Angels. Thank you for your assistance, Commander." Azrael's voice was equally steady, carrying the Dark Angels' characteristic gravity. "The Rock has been confirmed secure. The Dark Angels are capable of handling the remaining matters ourselves."
He paused slightly, as though weighing his words.
Information about reviving a Primarch lingered in his heart like the most tempting forbidden fruit.
Through secret channels, he had learned of the miracle that had occurred on Baal—the return of Sanguinius and Horus! At the same time, he had received another piece of intelligence: Terra had formed a new Astartes Legion called the Luna Wolves. Others might not understand the significance of that name, but they, as guardians of secrets, knew it all too well. That had been Horus's Legion. Which meant Horus had truly been revived—and had even gained the Emperor's