The Genestealers' Hybrid Acolytes-first- and second-generation hybrids that barely resembled humans-were excavating the Underhive. Having barely escaped the Adeptus Custodes, they stayed far from the human civilization above and focused on building a labyrinth of underground tunnels.
The hybrid faithful-third- and fourth-generation hybrids that closely resembled humans-operated in areas where they could interact with humanity, coordinating with the Biophagus.
Although their title sounded like something an Apostle of Nurgle would bear, Biophaguses were the genetic masters of Genestealer broods. They usually disguised themselves as medical personnel and injected xenos genes into humans, infecting more followers.
Following close behind were the proclamators, the chaplains of the Genestealer Cult, who preached that the divine great devourer would come to purify their souls.
Guilliman's infiltration drove straight beneath the Hybrid Acolytes' feet, while the Victrix Guard infiltrated from above.
The Victrix Guard sat inside several ordinary, enclosed supply trucks, observing their surroundings through periscopes.
Nobles were difficult to corrupt. Every noble on Terra had a verified lineage. If one became infected and was discovered, their main family could hardly escape disaster. But nothing could stop wealthy men from indulging in affairs.
These accidental children were usually disowned by their noble families, exiled or killed. A group of them had gathered between the lower hive and the Underhive. One Genestealer that escaped the massacre still maintained its identity as a nobleman's illegitimate child and became a backstreet doctor.
In other words, a Biophagus.
In a place as impoverished as the Underhive, someone who treated injuries at rock-bottom prices, even accepting barter, was a rare find indeed. And this Biophagus was a "miracle worker." Not only did most patients recover, they also grew into immensely strong, first-rate enforcers.
The "backstreet doctor" was soon taken away by a gang. Members gravely wounded in gang warfare desperately