Inside the barrier, there was deathly silence.
Hiruzen Sarutobi, Orochimaru, even the two legendary Hokage—all eyes were focused on the blue giant kneeling on one knee.
Naruto looked at Julian, at the familiar battle damage on his armor, at the pure white Ω symbol of the Ultramarines Chapter on his shoulder plate. The frail boy trembling amid the ruins in his memories slowly overlapped with the mountain of steel before him.
"The last time I saw you was on Krieg's third moon. You only came up to my waist." Naruto's voice was calm, without any discernible emotional fluctuation, but for him, these were already exceptionally heartfelt words.
"Yes, Commissar." Julian's helmet emitted a processed voice like grinding millstones. "After that, I was sent to Macragge to undergo Rubicon Primaris surgery. So that I could serve the Emperor better."
Naruto nodded.
Primaris Space Marines. Demigods created by implanting nineteen organs into mortals and performing genetic modifications, then adding three further augmentations known as Sinew Coils, the Magnificat, and the Belisarian Furnace—beings who surpassed the Space Marines of the old era. They possessed greater strength, faster reflexes, and more tenacious vitality. Every one of them was among the Imperium's most precious military assets.
"You did not betray those sacrifices." Naruto gave his approval.
Julian's massive helmet dipped slightly, a gesture of gratitude. "You gave me the chance to live, Commissar. My life, and all the glory I have earned with it, belong to you and the Emperor."
Unable to understand the language, Hiruzen Sarutobi was utterly confused. He only knew that this blue giant had been summoned by Naruto and displayed absolute obedience toward him.
That was enough. The spark of hope reignited in his heart.
Naruto did not continue reminiscing. He looked toward the battlefield and issued an extremely concise command.