Ashlan's first reaction was...
Evan was fucking amazing. Crimson Tide Warriors were everywhere, just like the Alpha Legion.
As for his second reaction...
Were you bastards even our people?
Our people would never believe the Emperor was a god. Absolutely never.
You, the filthy commissar up front-did you know what the people behind you were calling you? A Living Saint.
Wasn't that bullshit?
Anyway, this force definitely wasn't ours. The commissar might be.
Ashlan quickly reached his conclusion, but still decided to stop. He was part of the advance reconnaissance force, so a brief halt was understandable.
Inquisitor Flieg remained wary. "Who are you?"
A motorcycle unit suddenly braked hard in front of them, the resulting gust forcing everyone's eyes shut.
Ken stared at the unit ahead in shock. The Chapter insignia on their shoulders identified them as his own Primaris Warriors, but...
Power Armour? A whole squad in Power Armour?
Ken had never seen Crimson Tide Warriors wearing Power Armour in his life. With all these legendary veterans gathered here, could it mean...
Lord Evan had come in person?!
Ken saluted excitedly. Ashlan had no time to catch up with him and asked, "Which enemy force is up ahead?"
"Unknown, but the communications channel shows no friendlies ahead."
"Stand by here. Salute if you like. The father approaches."
Ashlan hit the throttle and charged ahead. His task was to establish exactly, exactly what enemies lay ahead.
Ken was a little confused.
The word Ashlan had just used for "father" had several meanings in Low Gothic. Could he mean the "father" in "Allfather"?
Impossible. How could the Emperor be leading the army?
Ken was bewildered. Were people calling Evan Dad now?
The soldiers had all heard Ashlan's words. They breathed a huge sigh of relief and wanted to sit down