Deep within the Tomb of the Necron Dynasty.
The Necron Master Artisan Zerath was in his private laboratory, tinkering with a newly acquired "collectible." It was the head of a human Space Marine, perfectly preserved within a transparent energy field.
"Perfect." He admired the despair on the head's face. "Fear truly is the most beautiful work of art."
Just then, a piercing alarm suddenly sounded.
Warning! Abnormal energy readings from the Seventh Blackstone Obelisk! Warning! Core collapse in the Seventh Obelisk! Warning! Garrison forces completely annihilated!
Zerath's movements stopped. His metallic, skull-like head turned toward the holographic projection, ghostly flames flickering violently in his green eye sockets.
The projection showed the final images before the Seventh Obelisk on Mesmok collapsed: a dazzling pillar of golden light, a blurred humanoid figure, and human soldiers charging like madmen.
"Interesting..." A trace of curiosity entered Zerath's voice. "This form of energy... it resembles neither psychic power nor a technological creation."
He enlarged the image, trying to make out the details of the golden figure. But the image was too blurry, and all recording equipment had been destroyed the instant the Obelisk collapsed.
"Deploy the Second Wave," Zerath ordered. "I want that glowing thing captured alive. If that proves impossible, collect all relevant data."
"As you command, Master Artisan."
Zerath looked at the image again, the ghostly flames in his eyes burning brighter.
Aboard the Hammer of God, on the bridge.
When the transmitted footage showed the Obelisk collapsing and the Necron Warriors being wiped out, the entire bridge descended into jubilant chaos.
"Long live the Emperor!" A Communications Officer leaped to his feet in excitement.
"We won! We really won!"
Commander Marlan breathed a sigh of relief, but quickly regained his composure.
"Dispatch medical and supply ships immediately to aid