Chapter 9

There is something unstoppable about the sight of two astartes barreling down the long neglected roadways of an imperial hive world atop steeds of steel and power. The thundering roar of the raider bikes deafened those unfortunate enough to cross their paths. Brother's Ramos and Cavill attention was totally transfixed on their assignment: reach the center of the zone, find the weapons (should they actually exist), and kill any who had sullied them with hands unworthy. Ramses had been clever in his deception, sending an imperial landing craft to meet with the local regiment to negotiate for supplies, while adjusting their flight plan to fly into the edge of Zone Zero and drop Ramos and Cavill who would make the remainder of the journey on their bikes. The governor had not suspected a thing. However, time was of the essence as once they began their raid on the central hub of the zone it was likely that the governor's generosity would swiftly run out.

Hive worlds were not known to give a high standard of living to those with the displeasure of resting within their bosom, but it appeared that the zone was left to rust and rot as a world consumed by the hellish forces of Nurgle, like Caspia would become should the Nova Seekers fail to drive them from the realm. However, this rot was not one of pestilence, but rather a rot of the soul. The foulest instincts of man had been brought forth into this forsaken land, and perhaps it would be best were it left to die. Occasionally Ramos would spy a curious urchin attempting to catch a glimpse of the pair, though the second that they were noticed they would vanish thinking that they had flirted with death and remained unscathed. They were unimportant to him, and though Ramos was aware how rare the sight of an astartes was to the common dregs of the hive worlds he did lament the decay that had befallen the Imperium. Perhaps one day he could return to this place, or a place like it, not as an agent of conquest, but as a healer or architect of mercy. Such thoughts were foolish of course as it was not his lot in life to build, but to destroy.

"It's a pity, is it not?" Cavill's voice inquired through the comms. "I have heard that the hives were in a poor state, but to see it with my own eyes is rather disheartening."

"Indeed, my thoughts dwelled in the same place, brother." Ramos responded. "One would think a governor would take more pride in their posting. It seems rather apathetic to simply shove as much poverty and destitution into one place and pretend as though it were not there." Cavill gave a morbid chuckle from the other end of the vox.

"Oh how wrong you are! I am under the impression that she does not pretend that it doesn't exist, but rather that this 'zone' is the solution to all problems in the Imperium. Give the rabble a hole to sort itself out, and it will."

"Were it only that easy," Ramos spat out. "I suppose I would not be so cynical, were she not filling her coffers with the treasures of the zone."

"Aye, that she is." He pause again before letting out another chuckle. "You know, she may have solved the problem of poverty. I'm sure that if our weapons cache is here, then those doing the digging are being quite handsomely compensated for their discoveries."

"Perhaps," Ramos was disinterested in how well compensated the people of the zone were, only that the very sight of it made him ill. "This place is a monument to everything amiss in our realm. Praise the Emperor that at least one of his sons has returned to bring order. Clearly the administratum is incapable of adhering to their responsibilities. It will take a Primarch to recover what has been lost." Cavill gave a cursory glance over at Ramos before returning his attention to the road. "This place is little more than a cancerous growth, it is a symptom of a far greater illness."

"You would see it destroyed then?" He snorted. "Better to cut it out and burn the wound than to let it fester."

"No." Ramos responded in a slightly indignant, but also measured tone. "I'm not certain what I would rather become of this place. Such things are beyond my understanding. All I can see is that the Imperium is suffering, it's people are suffering. It brings me to great despair to see those we were created to protect living in such squalor. The Emperor did not want this, and yet..." He trailed off as something caught his eye down the road. The two were coming up on a long bridge which arched across a massive heap of debris. They could see dozens of smoke columns billowing up in the distance, likely small settlements and ganger camps. Distant sounds of gunfire echoed from all around them, though the bulk of noise emanated from deeper in the zone. The deeper they explored the less likely it would be that they could avoid a fight before reaching the central complex. The two slowed to a halt as they reached the bridge, though surprisingly it appeared that the road split into two separate paths. The first was the bridge itself which arched over the massive field of ruined buildings which upon closer inspection was framing a massive ramshackled city, bustling with people. The second route descended into the great maw of this city and appeared to then split off into smaller pathways creating a labyrinthian ghetto.

There would be no easy way across as the bridge was the foundation for some sort of fortification. A massive fortress with high walls built from scrap metal and vehicle parts was erected right in the center of the bridge. Cavill raised his oculus bolt carbine in an attempt to get a better view of the fort.

"What do you see?" Ramos inquired.

"Little more than an inconvenience, but an inconvenience all the same," Cavill replied. "Definitely a ganger camp, perhaps the settlement beneath is under their rule. By my count there are two or three dozen guards posted on the walls, and I would wager that the garrison inside dwarfs that by a factor of four or five given the size. They aren't armed with anything particularly threatening, autoguns and stubbers primarily, but I would be unsurprised if they were to have something with a bit more bite were we to approach." He lowered his bolt carbine and slung it back over his shoulder. "What do you think?"

Ramos pondered the thought for a moment. Cavill was correct, a ganger camp would not be of any concern were they not on a time constraint, however driving through the settlement below could present its own challenges. There would likely be enforcers there as well, and given the labyrinthian layout they may spend just as much time in navigation as they would just punching through the fortress and crossing the bridge.

"Were we to attack the fortress directly," Ramos spoke, "we would be totally committed to fighting that battle. I have no doubts that it would be an easy victory, I am not sure that we have the ammunition to complete our assignment."

"I was thinking the same," Cavill replied. "Though it is a rather dull prospect I suppose it would be most beneficial to drive through the settlement below, and avoid the fight all together." Ramos hesitated for a moment before returning his hands back to the handlebars of his bike.

"What would you do should we encounter resistance?" Ramos inquired.

Cavill snorted with disgust, "as much as it pains me to say so I would recommend that we should retreat should we encounter any hostility." He leaned forward and began to shove off. "Though I doubt they would be so stupid or so bold to provoke an attack." This sparked an idea for Ramos.

"Perhaps, there is another solution, though I am unsure of how effectively we may be able to conduct it." Cavill turned to look at Ramos head on, cocking his head inquisitively.

"Oh, and what might it be?"

Ramos shifted, now feeling a bit uncomfortable in his armor. "We could- simply ask to pass through. I am certain they are also aware that a fight with space marines would end in a massive loss of life, and thus resources. They do not wish that. These people are not accustomed to being so profoundly outclassed. I think they would fold were we to apply even the slightest pressure in the right way." Cavill remained silent for a moment before chuckling a deep, genuine laugh.

"You really believe that we could just ask, and they would let us through? That is quite humorous." Cavill didn't entirely think that Ramos was serious, and by all rights he shouldn't. However, Ramos considered the thought again before replying.

"Yes, yes I do." Cavill let out a deep exhalation at the realization that his partner was not jesting.

"You're mad."

"How so?"

"Because these people are unreasonable!" Cavill bit out. "Because they aren't sane."

"On the contrary, I think that they are every bit as sane as you or me. I think that though they may be prone to barbarism, they only do so because it is their best chance at anything resembling prosperity." Ramos rested the chin of his helmet between his thumb and index finger in a gesture of deep thought. "Worst case scenario we are back to fighting our way through the fort and we have lost only a little time." He looked at Cavill again. "However, I will not do anything unless we agree. If we try to negotiate then we must both commit to the plan until it goes awry. If we fight, then we are in agreement that there is no other way." Cavill took one last look through the oculus before returning Ramos' gaze.

"We will try to reason with them, however I will not take my finger off the trigger," Cavill replied.

"Excellent." Ramos returned his hands to the handlebars of his bike and pushed off with Cavill in tow just behind him. They began to cross the bridge. Like the rest of the city it was in ill repair, however it was sturdy. Scrapped remains of vehicles littered the road, many still blazing from their recent destruction. Hundreds of bodies were sprawled out amongst the debris, mostly gangers and mutants, though there were others which appeared to be unarmed. The unfortunate casualties of a lawless and dying world. They weaved through the cluttered mess as they made their approach. Cavill noted that they had definitely attracted attention as there were another fifteen or so who had gathered at the top of the wall. Curiously, they did not open fire. Ramos brought his bike to a halt and gave a salutary gesture before stepping off.

"Greetings, I am Brother Ramos Archimedes of the Nova Seekers. My brother Cavill and I seek to pass through your territory." Ramos' voice and demeanor was rigid and artificial, his voice fluctuated with an asymmetry that indicated nervousness and false nobility. The gangers mumbled amongst themselves, Ramos could see that they were clearly shaken at the sight of two astartes and pressed on. "I can assure you that none of you will be harmed, as your presence here is unrelated to our assignment." The mumbling continued. Cavill was growing impatient, but he allowed Ramos to continue his negotiations. "Is there a complication?" One of the gangers pulled out a vox from a satchel slung over his shoulder and spoke inaudibly into it before shaking his head in affirmation to whatever came from the other side. "We are under a time constraint, and would like to not be delayed any further." Ramos could feel himself starting to shrink as felt that he was losing control of the situation.

"Yes, erm, my liege," the ganger replied in a weasley tone. "My boss just wants to come and get a look at you first, it will only be a moment." He squirmed uncomfortably as he looked down at the super soldiers below. "You see, it's just that none of us is ever seen a real life space marine a'fore, and I'm pretty sure you is telling the truth, but, the boss wanted to see you hisself." Cavill scowled beneath his helmet, and Ramos could feel the pressure of his frustration.

"How long do you think he will be?"

"Probably only a few minutes." Cavill stepped forward past Ramos.

"He had best hurry, as every minute wasted is more precious than your meaningless lives." Cavill was through waiting. The gangers all recoiled upon hearing this new voice. "When a space marine demands passage, you do not ask for approval, you do not hem and haw about what to do. You let them through." His statement hung in the air for a moment as the gangers went silent. Ramos rested his hand on Cavill's shoulder. "Am I understood?" The lead ganger fiddled with his vox again, unsure if he wished to contact the boss again. Cavill's glare alone could have killed the ganger should he have had the intention to do so.

"Patience, brother, these few moments would be worth the wait when we do not have to waste our energies on this rabble." Ramos held on the word rabble for a bit longer than he should have. It felt foreign to say it, and he felt almost ashamed to be so demeaning towards the imperial citizenry. Certainly he was an astartes, but perhaps if these gangers had been gifted a different start, they too could have been. Cavill turned up his nose and stomped back over to his bike. Ramos looked back up to the gangers, realizing a new tactic. "I will warn you, that if this is a ruse to stall us I will not be able to control my partner. He would rather see all of you dead and this place burned. I am only offering you this option as a plea of mercy. I am being benevolent, and I am certain that my kindness will be rewarded." There was more mumbling from the gangers, the lead ganger once again pulling his vox out of his satchel and saying something unheard into it. The intimidation had worked.

"The boss is almost here. I swear we ain't trying to fool you at all. We just gotta be sure is all. Boss would be awful upset if you were lying."

"I understand your predicament, but again, time is of the essence and we grow tired of waiting."

"Right, right!" The ganger replied. "See you sound like what a space marine is supposed to sound like, and you look like what they is supposed to look like, but I ain't ever seen one. But the boss swears he has, so he would know best."

"I suppose." Ramos too was growing impatient. His experience with the citizenry of the Imperium was limited after he became a space marine, but his experience with the underhive was totally non-existent. Perhaps his plan was foolish. Perhaps it was time wasted, but he was committed to it, at least for the time being.

After another moment there was activity at the top of the wall and the gangers began to spread out making way for a tall, heavily augmented man clad in black, padded armor. Both eyes had been replaced with biomechanical receptors and where his lower jaw once was a poorly constructed and ill-fitting speaking apparatus. Over his shoulder was slung a las gun, modified with a long scope and decorated with a series of gang markings. He looked down at the pair as he gestured for the other gangers to give him space.

"Greetings," he said in a mechanical, though still somewhat refined tone. "My apologies for the delay. I was not anticipating that we would be receiving such esteemed visitors." His body dipped into a bow. "My name is Atrax, and I am the ruler of these lands, so to speak."

Ramos and Cavill did not return the bow, however Ramos did respond with similar decorum. "It is a pleasure, Atrax. We are Brothers Ramos and Cavill, of the Nova Seekers." He gestured up towards Atrax. "As we were just explaining to your subordinates, we are on an assignment that does not concern you or your- lands. However, your fortifications do impede our path. We wish for passage through."

"Yes, yes I understand." Atrax replied. "This much was explained. I simply wished to negotiate your safe passage myself. My men are hardly accustomed to such tasks, you know." He motioned at one of his men, who responded by bringing him a large, almost throne like, chair. Atrax lowered himself into the seat, and adjusted himself into a comfortable position. "I will allow your passage, as we are all aware of what consequences would occur should I not. I have no death wish." Cavill's jaw dropped somewhat, Ramos' scheme had actually worked.

"I appreciate your hospitality," Ramos said. However, there was something in Atrax's body language that left him uneasy. Cavill could sense it too. Despite the circumstances, Atrax exuded an aura that he was still in control of negotiations. Not Ramos and Cavill.

"I simply have one request," he spoke again.

"You are in no position to be requesting anything," Cavil barked. "The conditions of our arrangement are that you let us pass, or we will raze this eyesore to the ground!" Atrax gestured again with his hand up in a surrendering motion.

"Peace, noble space marine. It is not a condition, merely a polite request. A showing of goodwill, nothing more." He returned his arm to a resting position on his lap. "I was just curious as to where you were going. Perhaps, I could offer other assistance." Cavill and Ramos looked at each other for a moment in solidarity before returning their gaze to Atrax. "I know this realm and its people quite well. I am also aware of the dangers of the zone. It would be unbecoming for me to not offer any assistance."

"You can assist us by staying out of our way," Cavill bit out again. "Our assignment is none of your concern." Ramos held up his hand to silence Cavill, who begrudgingly complied.

"Your concern is noted, and appreciated, Atrax. However, our duty is ours alone. Our purpose is of the utmost importance, and thus requires a degree of secrecy. Surely you understand." Atrax rose in his chair a bit before calling one of his men over. He whispered something to him and the man disappeared behind the wall.

"I understand completely," Atrax said. "I shall press the issue no longer. You are free to pass. I have instructed one of my guards to open the doors for you." Ramos and Cavill relaxed somewhat. No blood would be spilled yet. "The zone only becomes more hostile the deeper within you travel, so be wary. Though, I suppose most will choose to avoid a battle with you, just as I have." He slowly rose from his chair as the doors began to open. "However, should you go deep enough you may find that there are-how should I put this- groups more dangerous and established than my little fief here. You should be sure to shoot them before they get a chance to shoot you." Ramos and Cavill both mounted their bikes as Cavill looked back up to Atrax.

"Oh? I suppose these wouldn't be rivals would they?" Atrax's posture shifted in a way that indicated a mischievous delight.

"Perhaps." He turned his back to the pair to leave. "However, my rivals could present a threat to you that I may not be capable of\. Just know that they may have access to tools more suited to proper warfare than I, and more men as well. I'm just looking out for your wellbeing. As a gracious host."

"I will keep that in mind, Atrax." Ramos cut in. "Your hospitality today is appreciated. Perhaps, someday we may be in a better position to return the favor."

"Perhaps, though I wouldn't count on it. You space marines are awfully busy doing important work. I am just content knowing that I could offer some assistance in my own way." As the gates opened fully Atrax disappeared and several men returned to their postings. The two astartes began their cautious advance into the encampment. Cavill's assessment was right. Inside were probably just over a hundred men within all carrying poorly maintained and grossly out of date autoguns. There was no fight to be had here, were they to have resisted, it would have been a blood bath. The buildings were all horribly built and offensive to the eyes in their sheer brutality.

The gangers all gawked as this was the first, and very likely the last, time that they would ever have the honor of seeing a space marine. Despite the danger that the pair posed, they were still inspiring to the people of the Imperium. Even among the dregs and human debris of Zone Zero they brought something akin to hope. No ganger started down the path of villainy without reason, and should the Imperium of Man one day return to its former glory, so too could the lowest of its people return to the safety and comfort beneath the protection of the Emperor and by association the protection of the Adeptus Astartes.

As the gates closed behind the pair Ramos fixed his attention once again toward their destination. Cavill glanced over at his ally before revving his engine.

"Onward?"

"Onward." Ramos and Cavill both shot as they crossed the final leg of the bridge. "You see Cavill? I told you the people of the Zone were more reasonable than what you assumed." Cavill chuckled in response.

"I suppose so." He paused for a moment considering his next words gently. "However, I think your soft heartedness for the rogues and rabble is unbecoming."

"Oh? And why would you say that?" Ramos already knew the answer, of course, but he wished to hear Cavill say it.

"Your decorum was not needed, we were a threat enough in our own right. Why exchange pleasantries if you are already aware that they did not wish for a fight." Ramos smiled in his helmet.

"In a way I think you have a correct assessment. I am aware that I lack a certain authority. I'm certain they would have not taken me seriously were I alone." Cavill cocked an eyebrow. "Fortunately, you were there to provide the authority I lacked."

"So you are saying that was all part of your plan?"

"In a sense." Cavill could tell that Ramos was quite proud of himself. "It takes all kinds, Cavill. We all have different skills and they can all fit into a greater plan." The two adjusted their course slightly to avoid some rubble as they rattled along the roadway. "You see I am not terribly gifted in authority. Perhaps one day, but not now. You however, you are a natural commander. You take charge. You know what you need, and you know how to inspire both adoration and fear. I envy that." Cavill was somewhat surprised to hear this.

"I appreciate that, brother." Cavill pulled back on the accelerator and passed Ramos by around half a bike length. Ramos maintained his position. "However, by your omission, it takes all kinds. Best you didn't envy me. If you are correct, and I think you may be, we need men like you as well." Ramos dipped his head slightly feeling something akin to embarrassment.

"You flatter me, Cavill. I shall do my best to accept the commendation."

The two continued down the road for several kilometers. Atrax was right. The deeper they went the more carnage from the skirmishes within the Zone became far more malicious. The distant gunfire seemed to always be just around the next corner. They would need to be cautious, as Ramos was certain that Atrax's warning was sincere. The wreckage slowly transitioned from poorly retrofitted buggies and bikes, into old, though proper, guard vehicles. Whatever lurked within the zone was dangerous, and well equipped enough to make Ramos doubt the Lieutenant's judgement in only sending him and Cavill. There would be danger ahead, and they would need to be prepared to face it.