Sacred rites of the Adeptus Mechanicus were taking place throughout the Phalanx. At any moment, someone walking down a corridor might stop and start kowtowing to a wall. As one of the greatest treasures in the entire Imperium, it received truly dedicated efforts from the Adeptus Mechanicus to bless its machine spirit.
The route Evan and the other Blade Feast participants took featured nothing but immaculate metal walls and decorations such as portraits of the Emperor. The thick scent of incense had already triggered the Tactical Helmet's automatic filtration. Who knew what the atmosphere was like around those precision instruments?
The drawing of lots went quickly. Everyone had come for the championship; whom they fought made no difference.
In previous years, when twelve Chapters participated, they used a round-robin system. Every contestant fought every opponent before the final winner was decided. But there were simply too many this year-thirty-two Chapters in all-so they could proceed straight to elimination matches.
Thirty-two powerful Primaris Warriors began taking off their clothes... their Power Armour.
Once they had changed into scout armour, both sides eagerly began the first round.
With so many Chapters present, four battle cages had been set up in the four corners of the gravity chamber, allowing four matches to begin simultaneously.
Situval drew the Emperor's Chosen Chapter. This Chapter was... rather reserved. Like the Raven Guard, they preferred extensive reconnaissance, carefully laid plans, and then a single decisive battle.
His opponent had thoroughly investigated many of the strong contenders in this tournament. His Chapter had gathered information on almost every Chapter, and he knew every renowned warrior, but...
Situval... who the hell are you?
The Emperor's Chosen Chapter's champion entered the battle cage, drew his short sword, and prepared to make this quick.
Situval likewise took down his short sword.