"Hercules, prepare for battle."
"The Emperor's glory awaits you!"
Hercules and a group of Recruits collected their weapons under Company Captain Menoetius's command. Since most of them had yet to receive the Nineteenth Surgical Knife implant, they could only enter battle wearing Scout Armour.
"Once you complete this mission, you'll truly become a Space Marine," Menoetius said as he handed Hercules a Volkite Pistol.
"You actually get to use a volkite weapon? Even some Legion veterans can't get their hands on those," Frank exclaimed, staring at the high-energy Volkite Pistol in Hercules's hand.
"Huh?"
Before Hercules could finish expressing his surprise, a towering figure appeared before him.
It was Brother Skranchi. He had arrived at the Rally Point with the Apothecary from Norsca.
"Hercules, stay behind me when the fighting starts."
"Be careful. Don't die."
Skranchi spoke in his usual tone, with its hint of savagery and teasing.
"Recruits, stay close to the veterans. This battle is only meant to give you a taste of blood."
"You're fortunate. You're the only Recruit company in the Legion to take part in a major battle before completing your surgeries."
"I want every one of you to survive! As the Emperor's coins, prove your worth!"
"Many of you may die in this battle!"
"But death means nothing more than our souls returning to the Emperor's side! We shall live forever!"
"We shall live forever!"
"We shall live forever!"
"We shall live forever!"
The Legion warriors who worshipped the Emperor were already shouting with excitement. Even those who did not believe the Emperor was a god were moved by the sight and joined in the cries.
Company Captain Menoetius marched at the head of the formation. Behind him came Legion veterans clad in power armour, carrying volkite weapons as they followed him into the