"This is the Metis. We have declared our loyalty to the Warmaster. Over."
A steady, calm voice came over the communications channel, carrying the composure of someone delivering a routine report.
The Metis was a Space Marine Battle Barge belonging to the Sons of Horus Legion. Its long, imposing hull gleamed with a dark gray metallic sheen beneath the starlight, and the Insignia of the Sons of Horus was emblazoned on its flank.
Company Captain Akton Cruz commanded the warship.
His name carried considerable weight within the Sons of Horus Legion.
He had served as a Company Captain of the Luna Wolves since the Legion's founding. In those days before they had a Primarch to lead them, before Horus had returned, he and several other veteran Company Captains had held together the force that would one day become the Imperium's finest Legion.
He had fought countless battles, leaving his footprints and sweat on countless worlds. His tactical acumen and command abilities were highly respected throughout the Legion.
He had even been appointed leader of the Legion. During the transitional period before Horus's return, he had briefly shouldered the responsibility of commanding the entire Legion, until their Gene-Father came from Cthonia and took command.
Even after Horus returned, he continued to hold an important position within the Legion.
He had not felt diminished or sidelined by Horus's return. On the contrary, he had gladly accepted the Warmaster's leadership, giving his experience and wisdom unstintingly to the young Primarch. He became one of Horus's most trusted subordinates, helped devise countless campaign plans, and enjoyed immense prestige within the Legion.
And now, the rebellion had begun.
Company Captain Akton had not chosen to flock to Horus like those others, declaring their devotion before the Warmaster, currying favor, and competing for higher positions in