"How much longer until we reach Optera?"
"We expect to leave the Warp in seventy-two hours."
"Good." Saul drew a deep breath. "Prepare the memorial ceremony. Chapter Master Phoros and all our brothers who fell in the battles of Macragge and Damocles deserve the grandest funeral we can give them."
"Yes, Saint."
Gareth turned to leave, but stopped at the door.
"Saul." He did not turn around. "Chapter Master Phoros once said something to me. He said that if he was gone one day, the Lamenters would need a new leader. That man had to be strong, wise, merciful, and... have light within him."
"He said that man was you."
With that, Gareth left the cabin.
Saul stood where he was, silent for a long time.
Beyond the window, the maddening colors of the Warp swirled. Their distorted light played across his face, casting his expression alternately into light and shadow.
Seventy-two hours later, in the Optera System.
When the Dawn emerged from the warp rift, Saul saw the stars of home.
Optera, the homeworld of the Lamenters. Seen from space, it resembled a weeping eye, beautiful and sorrowful.
"Friendly signal detected!" the Communications Officer called out. "It's the Mother of Tears! The Chapter's flagship is standing by in orbit!"
"Open communications," Saul ordered.
The holographic projection flickered to life, revealing a familiar face.
Karen, the Second Company Captain. The seasoned veteran had a few more scars on his face than when Saul had left. But his eyes were still sharp, and his lips bore their familiar mocking smile.
"Look who's back." Karen grinned. "Our great hero, Saul the Starbreaker. So, how did it feel to blow up an entire planet?"
Saul knew what Karen was like. The man always hid his concern behind sarcasm and barbed remarks.
"Terrible," Saul