"Saladin... that bastard actually tried to sway me with words."
Lorgar's voice rang out in the preparation chamber beside the Bridge of the Law of Faith, calm yet like a current beneath the deep sea, carrying a coldness that could tear steel apart.
He had slung the dark silver Greatsword Vulkan had given him across his back. Its heavy blade fitted into the specially made Magnetic Lock with a soft click.
Beside him, Hercules stood like a mountain.
“Anna-stasia.” Lorgar turned his gaze toward the silver-haired figure in the shadows, who almost blended into her surroundings. Her presence was faint, yet unmistakably clear.
"You and Rockefeller will remain aboard the Law of Faith. This warship is our foundation. Nothing can be allowed to happen to it. Rockefeller will have full command. You will deal with any scum who try to approach the core areas."
Anastasia inclined her head slightly, her ice-blue eyes untroubled, as though she had received the most ordinary of orders.
"Hercules." Lorgar turned back to one of his mightiest sons. "You will come with me."
With that, Lorgar strode toward the passage leading to the hangars and assault decks. Hercules immediately followed with heavy footsteps, a moving Fortress close behind his flank.
Only the steady tread of Power Armour boots on metal flooring echoed through the passage.
Hercules lowered his head slightly. His voice emerged through his Helmet, respectful and seeking confirmation. "Father, shall I assemble the First Company's champion guard as before, form an elite assault team, and board the Soul of the Yellow Sands directly?"
"No." Lorgar's answer was brief and firm, and his steps never slowed. "This time, the more men I bring, the more... uncontrollable the battle will become."
Angron and Curze had already given him detailed accounts of the strange, powerful psychic