Several months slipped quietly by amid busy preparations for war, the initial processing of data from the ruins, and preliminary research into the forbidden weapon known as the "Wave Cannon."
When Lorgar received the characteristically solemn communication request from Lion El'Jonson, Lord of Caliban, Primarch of the Dark Angels, and master of the First Legion, he had just finished reviewing a report on the progress of integrating the faith of a new recruiting world.
The holographic communications array activated, and amid the shifting light, Lion El'Jonson's stern, resolute face appeared before Lorgar.
Behind him was a corner of the Unyielding Truth's bridge, simple and efficient, imbued with the solemn aesthetic of a knightly legion.
Lion El'Jonson wore his dark Power Armour, adorned with a lion's mane and wings. He was bareheaded, his hair impeccably groomed, and his sharp blue-grey eyes looked straight across the Sea of Stars. A faint, teasing smile seemed to tug at his lips.
"Lorgar, I hear you've... 'struck it rich' lately?"
His choice of words briefly startled Lorgar. Then a genuine smile broke across the face that usually maintained a prophet's solemnity and a legion master's dignity.
Lion El'Jonson rarely spoke with such a teasing tone. It usually meant he was in a good mood and considered their relationship close enough to open this way.
"Nothing of the sort, Brother Lion," Lorgar replied lightly, relaxing in his seat.
"I was merely... a little fortunate. While exploring a remote star system, we happened upon some forgotten ancient ruins. Inside, we picked up a few things... well, you might call them 'legacies of our predecessors.'"
"A few hundred reasonably intact automated combat units, fully armed and in surprisingly good condition. There was also a rather... special weapon prototype. We call it the 'Wave Cannon.'"
In the holographic image,