"Father."
After dealing with Abaddon, Brutus returned to the base of the Dark Eye.
His footsteps echoed through the empty Underground Chamber, bouncing between walls carved with ancient Aeldari Script.
He stopped a few paces from Horus and lowered his head slightly, his posture respectful and obedient.
Horus stood with his back to Brutus, facing the immense Dark Eye.
In the dim glow emanating from the Dark Eye, his figure seemed especially imposing, as though he had become one with the ancient ruins.
His hands were clasped behind his back, and his gaze seemed to pierce everything around him.
He remained silent for a long time, as though pondering some profound question, or listening to a voice from deep within the Dark Eye.
"Brutus, my son." Horus finally spoke, his voice echoing through the empty Underground Chamber with a deeper resonance than before.
Some of its former warmth and affection had faded, replaced by a measure of coldness.
"Father, I have imprisoned Abaddon as you ordered," Brutus reported.
He did not look up, keeping his head slightly bowed as he awaited his father's next instructions.
"Good." Horus nodded slowly. It was a small movement, but it carried the satisfaction of confirming that something had gone according to plan.
His gaze remained on the Dark Eye rather than turning toward Brutus.
Brutus fell silent for a moment, then continued, his voice cautiously probing. "What about Loken? He saw Abaddon being taken away today. He may grow suspicious. If he starts asking around, or tries to contact people from the other Legions—"
"Leave Loken and the Word Bearers alone for now," Horus interrupted.
"Loken is an intelligent man. He knows what he should and should not do."
"Besides, he commands great respect within the Legion. Moving against him rashly would only cause