"Rockefeller, I'm leaving what comes next to you."
Outside the private meditation chamber aboard the Word Bearers' Flagship, the Law of Faith, Lorgar stopped and addressed the First Company Captain, who had long been waiting there.
His voice was calm, but his gaze was as deep as an abyss as it settled on Rockefeller's resolute, composed face.
This Chapter Master was not merely the Legion's blade. He had long since become Lorgar's most trusted deputy and an extension of his will.
"Understood, Father." Rockefeller bowed slightly, his voice steady and strong, without a trace of hesitation.
He had long grown accustomed to all this.
Within the Legion, whenever Lorgar temporarily departed for one reason or another, or focused on other matters, Rockefeller was its de facto commander.
He knew every artery of the Legion. He could execute Lorgar's strategic intentions with precision, and when unexpected situations arose, make decisions that served both the Legion's interests and the Primarch's expectations.
In a sense, he had become the Legion's "Second Primarch."
Lorgar nodded and said nothing more.
Then he stepped away, heading toward the Bridge.
For this journey to Terra, he had decided to go alone, without taking any companies.
His purpose required secrecy, his movements demanded speed, and more importantly, he had to leave his strength where it was needed most.
Passing through the staging area beside the Bridge, he saw Hercules and Anastasia standing to one side.
"Hercules, Anastasia." Lorgar stopped, his gaze passing over them both.
"You will remain here and accompany the expeditionary Fleet."
"As you command, Primarch." Both saluted without asking why.
Lorgar looked at them. Leaving them behind was not simply a matter of strengthening the expeditionary Fleet's conventional combat power.
Deep within him lay another consideration, graver and harder to voice, yet one he could