Guilliman was like a mortal old father who felt he owed his son something, trying to melt the vigilance and distance in his son's heart with warmth and affection.
"You may not know this after being away from Macragge for so long, but we have completely replaced our power armor with newer models. The Extremis-pattern power armor you wear is already outdated."
"Place it in a museum, so future generations may remember your bloodshed and sacrifice on Calth. I will prepare new, stronger armor for you."
The primarch's voice was gentle and relaxed, carrying the warm tone of a casual conversation.
"I trust my old companion more, my lord. We survived many near-death situations together beneath Calth." Ventanus spoke through his helmet.
Guilliman showed no blame at Ventanus's tacit refusal. He merely extended a hand and took hold of Ventanus's arm.
"Remove your helmet, hero of Calth. Let us not speak of those unpleasant memories for now. Let me see your face. I will have the servants bring some of Macragge's specialty wine."
Ventanus remained where he was, with no intention of removing his helmet.
Lox watched the somewhat strange interaction between the father and son from the side.
Why did this feel a little wrong... Even if Ventanus was reserved and cautious, he would not act like this before his gene-father. As for the underground war on Calth, could its effects on Ventanus truly have been so great?
Ventanus had been the fierce warrior who gathered his battle-brothers and commanded the defense against the Word Bearers' assault from the very beginning of the war. He had endured even the worst period. The later extermination campaign should not have changed his personality so drastically.
Though Lox's powers of observation could not compare to Guilliman's, he had the clarity of an