"Ahem, ahem, ahem..."
Lorgar cleared his throat, the sound echoing through the empty corridor with a deliberate note, as though he were trying to conceal his embarrassment.
He stood at the entrance to the Vengeful Spirit's main hall, his body slightly stiff as his gaze swept across the grand, imposing chamber.
Golden patterns adorned the soaring dome, and paintings commemorating the Sons of Horus Legion's great battles hung on the walls. A deep crimson carpet covered the floor, stretching into the depths of the hall.
Truthfully, Lorgar had expected this meeting to be solemn, formal, and strictly business.
After all, they were dealing with a rebellion. After all, the situation on Davin concerned the Warmaster's reputation. After all, they were military leaders with countless duties demanding their attention.
Then Horus appeared.
The Warmaster strode over, wearing a smile Lorgar rarely saw on his face, one that was almost radiant.
There was none of the Warmaster's authority in that smile, none of a commander's reserve, only pure, heartfelt joy.
He walked up to Lorgar and, without a word, spread his arms and pulled him into a firm embrace.
Caught off guard by this sudden enthusiasm, Lorgar's hands froze in midair for a moment before he patted Horus on the back, returning the embrace.
"My brother!" Horus released Lorgar, though his hands remained on his shoulders. His gaze searched Lorgar's face, as if checking that he really was standing there.
"When I heard you were coming, I had a room prepared especially for you. Come, let me show you!"
As he spoke, he took Lorgar by the arm without waiting for an answer and led him toward the corridor beside the main hall.
His strides were brisk and strong, filled with eager excitement, like a child who had just received the gift