In the Void of the Carrion Galaxy, the smoke and spore dust had yet to fully disperse, leaving behind the shattered wreckage of the Tyranid fleet and burning fragments of organic tissue.
Two red-and-white Shazabis stood on Hope's deck like blood-soaked war gods, their mono-eye sensors slowly sweeping the battlefield, vigilant for any possible counterattack.
The Spartans and Hilling Mobile Forces were conducting the final purge on the breached decks of Red Scar Monastery, efficiently eliminating the remaining Tyranid organisms.
Spirit of Fire, meanwhile, watched over the entire star system like a silent beast.
The battle had temporarily come to an end, yet the oppressive atmosphere had not faded.
Everyone knew this was merely an insignificant tendril of the Hive Fleet.
The true threat was still surging onward.
Sword of Vengeance, like a scarred yet still majestic king, slowly approached Spirit of Fire.
A splendid shuttle adorned with the Blood Angels insignia, yet entirely unlike standard Imperium designs, emerged from its belly and flew toward Spirit of Fire's docking bay.
Spirit of Fire's bridge.
When Dante, Chapter Master of the Blood Angels and a legendary commander, stepped aboard the warship, undisguised astonishment appeared on the weathered face hidden behind his golden death mask for the first time.
Unlike the Gothic style of Imperium vessels, filled with religious fanaticism and mechanical worship, this place was simple, efficient, and cold.
A massive holographic star map operated silently, while streams of data cascaded like waterfalls.
Crewmembers in matching uniforms worked intently at their consoles, their movements crisp and capable.
What made his pupils contract even more was the gentle female hologram floating beside the main console, calmly watching him.
"Welcome aboard, Commander Dante." Captain Anders stepped forward and extended a hand. "I am Captain James Carter Anders of Spirit of Fire."
Dante's gaze