The self-refining fuel from the Astronomican Hall bowed slightly to the mechanical body passing through the dungeon.
"Man of Iron Iax, in accordance with the Emperor's will, Lord Guilliman and I have been waiting here for you. By his command, we will give you an item as payment for an agreement, in the hope that you will help ensure the survival of humanity."
The mechanical body regarded the psyker, whose entire body radiated strange energy fluctuations, with a curious look.
"How can you prove that the humans of the present Imperium are humanity's legitimate successors? To me, they are merely a humanoid subspecies. Their living conditions and social structure differ greatly from those of the former Human Federation. Even their genomes are different."
The psyker showed no anger, instead turning toward Guilliman.
"Lord Regent."
Guilliman was still absorbed in Iax's deeply subversive words when the psyker's call roused him.
He then took a small pouch from the waist of his Armour of Fate.
Inside was a strange little mechanical device.
It looked somewhat like a key, but it contained numerous hollow sections and energy circuits. An unknown crystal at its center gave off a faint golden glow, regulating the flow of energy.
"This special key will be the payment for our agreement, and within it lies the past you seek. But you must honor the agreement and protect humanity from extinction."
"I cannot establish the authenticity of history unless it can be verified through multiple data sources. If the records are confirmed to be accurate, I will recognize the agreement as valid and ensure the survival of present-day humanity."
The mechanical body's answer did not seem to deviate from the revelation the psyker had received. Even Guilliman showed no displeasure, as though everything had gone exactly as expected.
The psyker