In the cold void, the suffocating biomass shadow of Leviathan's hive fleet spread and advanced across the star chart like ink dropped into clear water.
Its target was clear and deadly—Baal, home of Sanguinius's sons.
Spirit of Fire and Hope closely followed Dante's weathered yet still imposing flagship—the Sword of Vengeance—toward their designated interception battlefield: the Hades System.
This was the unavoidable route by which Leviathan's vast, ravenous, all-devouring tendrils would reach Baal.
A tombstone destined to be forged from steel and blood, built solely to delay the march of destruction.
Thanks to Dante's status as Nihilus Regent and the prestige he had accumulated over a thousand years, Imperial forces from every direction were converging on the Hades System at top speed.
Battered Imperial Navy vessels, strike cruisers painted with the insignias of different Chapters, and massive transport fleets packed with Astra Militarum soldiers gathered around the Shield of Hades like a swarm returning to its nest.
Dante, the veteran of a thousand years, stood upon the bridge of the Sword of Vengeance like a rock.
His crimson power armor reflected the light of the assembled fleet beyond the viewport. Time had carved its marks into his resolute face, yet his eyes alone burned with an undying fighting spirit.
He was engaged in an in-depth tactical discussion with Anders, captain of the Spirit of Fire.
"...The swarm tactic—endless numbers, utterly fearless of death." Anders's voice came through the comms, calm yet carrying the weariness of war. "With the forces we have assembled, meeting the hive fleet's tendrils head-on would be like smashing eggs against a rock. We must delay them, wear them down, trade space for time!"
"I understand, Captain Anders." Dante's voice was low and firm. "According to the Regent's introduction, you have extensive experience resisting Tyranid invasions. Could