+Hmm, Servitor 867754.+ TalOS sent a quick list of materials directly into the Servitor's mind, +I need you to gather these materials.+
The thing that was more machine that man simply started moving forward with three others quickly falling in line with him. TalOS turned towards the others with a smile, +How about we all go ahead and build some armaments and then go out hunting. We can see just how proficient you are as well, AL4N.+
+I-is that so sir?+ the Acillian asked before receiving a nod from TalOS, +Um, may I finish working on my stubber then?+
+I think that will be fine, however I want you to help me build my Volkite.+ TalOS ordered as he went over and patted him on the back, +Us three put together, we can produce some Volkites and take them for a test run.+
+You really think so?+ The Magos across from them asked with a small bit of wonder in her mechanical eyes, +It seems you have learned a lot more than I expected TalOS.+
+There is no reason to stop, for by comprehending and learning you are one step closer to understanding the Machine God.+ Announced TalOS as he sat down next to where AL4N was previously sitting, +Show me where you were at, and then lets see what we can do here.+
+Yes my Lord!+ Said Acillian as he took a seat down and started to reorganize his gear for the assembly.
+Call me Father, AL4N.+ TalOS said as he looked over the things, +That is who I am to you now, as my blood runs in your veins.+
+U-understood Father.+
With that the two of them began their works as the grandmothers watched over them. Just as the stubber was finished the parts TalOS had ordered came in. While what must have been a few hours went by, TalOS and E11IE were both able to finish their weapons. Such a thing was of course difficult, but with TalOS and a Magos who specialized in mystical weapons it was easily done.
Soon they had requisitioned a vehicle to drive around in, this being a Troop Transport that TalOS had requested for the Acillians. No one really had a problem with them borrowing them, since they were allotted to be activated and driven to keep the Machine Spirit fresh within the engine.
The dirt under their treads was a sorta pale cream color, very easily compared to the robes that the Tech Priests and Acillians were currently wearing. If you were not looking you would not likely see the vehicle coming, however the sound was not something that could be easily ignored.
+I spy a cave one and a tenth clicks west.+ Announced AL4N with a good amount of confidence in his voice.
Thus they would be hunted in their homes.
+Does the cave have anything hanging outside of it?+ Asked Magos E11IE as she sat next to TalOS.
+There is a few pieces of destroyed machinery. My records are confirming them to be remnants of the Plastoids, arranged in a fashion of Kokitens.+
+Kokitens, their population is estimated to be at 1140.+ Announced TalOS as he turned the machine towards the destination, +We are lucky, these creatures are lotted for extermination with prejudice.+
+As they should be, these creatures love to eat metal.+ Announced the Magos as they continued the ride over.
Only a few minutes later and they had all arrived at the site. TalOS took out his Volkite Blaster and his Omnissian Axe while his mother prepared her own blaster and a series of other firearms mounted on mechanites. As for the Acillian, he was carrying his stubber and a Chainsword that was within the armory.
+Everyone is linked to the local Noosphere.+ Announced TalOS as he stood tall against the darkness ahead, +Al4N, you want to take point?+
+Yes Father!+ Declared the Acillian with a good bit of desire in his voice. TalOS himself took the rear while the Magos was in the center of them all, a proper positioning for entering such a place.
With their entering solution determined the three of them entered the place, the darkness of the cave soon being lit alight by the numerous mechanisms that the trespassers possessed. Wherever the light failed to reach, TalOS could still see with a near perfect clarity thanks to his advanced genes. The others likely had some versions of Dark Vision, but it was best not to leave a single stone unturned.
They traveled the cave for a little bit, their metallic steps broadcasting their position. TalOS was prepared for this however, knowing that they were likely to be ambushed at some point. His eyes moved from place to place looking for something, all while getting a feed from the other two who were with him.
However TalOS was not the only observant one as the Noosphere's local chat room was opened up.
[green]AL4N: Omnispex detecting a hidden entryway fifteen steps in front of us with hostiles. Orders?
TalOS: Just walk past them casually, I would not be surprised if there were a few more further down waiting for a chance to fight.
Grandma: Interesting… I have a few weapons to weaken their attack when they start the assault.[/green]
With those words traded between them in silence, they advanced forward. TalOS carefully counted his steps, his eyes catching the entryway that Al4N had discussed in the blessed chatroom.
They needed to be careful, as TalOS was quick to do his research on them while they were still connected to the global Noosphere. It seems these mutants are somewhat native to the planet, though they could have also been an escaped experiment from a Genetor. TalOS was betting it was the latter, as the Mutants were not only marked as a deviation from humans, but after eating metal their fur, fangs, and claws would all contain the alloy.
As they passed the entry by five steps, TalOS was given a full view of the Mutants. Covered in fur that was colored Martian Red, they had deep red eyes that was clearly a deviation from the true path.
+Engaging firing solution!+ Declared AL4N as he quickly started firing at whatever was in front of them. This was enough to get the five Mutants who were sitting behind TalOS to jump from their hiding spot and begin the attack!
TalOS prepared his Omnissian Axe in that very moment;
+DEUS MECHANICUS!+ Yelled TalOS as he held his Omnissian Axe high and sliced right through one of the mutants that were before him. Blood went everywhere as he did, but the Primarch was not done with just a single creature dead.
Blood rained upon all present as they were forced to contend with TalOS's blade. Three of them went up and tried to jump the Primarch in a single moment but all were forced to take a single strike through each of their stomachs.
With his own strength, TalOS was able to not only kill these three but sever their torsos from their legs with a simple swing of the axe. These creatures were nothing in comparison to the powers and abilities of a Primarch, and the remaining one realized this to be the case when it looked at TalOS with pure fear.
Those who were attacking from the front were experincing something similar, though this was against the Acillian and the Tech Priest. AL4N was more than capable of killing these creatures, even with a stubber, as he aimed not for their heads but for a small part of their neck. These creatures, whose armor was but reddened iron, were killed by a single shot of the stubber.
Behind him the Magos E11IE was having her fair share of attacks. With her weapon shooting into the flesh of the creatures many of them became not but dust through a single shot. Sometimes the shots would even cascade throughout the field and start to rip into its neighbors without problem.
There were a few, of course, who made their way into Melee with the Acillian. While the man was equipped with nothing but his bare fists the son of TalOS did his damndest to kill the creatures. With a single swing of his fist the man was able to crumble their skulls and throw them to the ground with impunity. Of course he was not the fastest he was sure killing a good many of them.
TalOS however was finish with the rear flank, as thanks to a well placed shot with his Volkite Blaster the scared Mutant was turned into a kinda sludge. With that he quickly took his Omnissian axe and charged the front with a fury that could only be matched by the Titan he operated. And maybe it was, as TalOS could even now feel the happiness of Particep Semper with TalOS taking place in slaughtering these mutants.
By the time they were done there were but corpses about them. The red lights coming off Magos E11IE revealed roughly twenty of them laying all about the ground in various states of destruction and desecration. TalOS could not be happier as he turned to see AL4N giving a few hardy breaths.
+How you feeling?+ TalOS asked as he turned towards his son, +I am sure you felt the power of the Machine God flowing through your veins.+
The Acillian looked at TalOS for a moment before testing out his arms in surprise, +I-I didn't expect this. Even according to our training videos I should not have done all of this. I…+
+You're strong, just like me. Such is the blessing of the Machine God.+ TalOS said as he patted his son on the back, +Through your power and growing knowledge you will become the scalp that our armies truly need. That is what I created you to be, AL4N, you are only getting a taste now of what your duty is.+
+Th-thank you Father.+ The young Acillian said before growing a smile, +I will not let you down! In the name of the Machine God I will do so!+
+I look towards it.+ Answered TalOS as he gave the Acillian a pat on the shoulder and then prepared his weapon, +Mother, how much further do you think we have?+
+There are no more hostiles in the chamber behind us, it only goes in fifty feet.+ She calculated while a small ding barely perceptible to TalOS went through the air, +We are approaching the end of the cave it seems. I detect a series of hostiles ahead of us.+
+Then we should start approaching.+ TalOS announced as he walked back to his position, +It's on you, AL4N, take point.+
+Understood!+ Cheered the Acillian as they all began their way further into the halls.
As they began to go deeper and deeper, what was once the cold dampness of the cave was replaced with a comfortable heat. Such was the nature of the Star Forge, as it heated even the ground to such a degree that going deeper can result in getting hotter than on the surface.
Walking more and more in, they noticed small pieces of makeshift technologies. These were medieval in nature, such as torches, wagons, and pickaxes that were all left on the ground. Looking around the place the Tech Priest could easily guess they fled deeper after hearing them all approach.
+What you think they were trying to do?+ Pointed out AL4N as he looked over the things, +Those are… pickaxes right?+
+They are, an inefficient version of the Hexter Pattern Hand Drill.+ Declared Magos E11IE as she shined a light on the things, +My systems estimate that they were likely trying to get access to iron.+
+I can concur that.+ Announced TalOS before giving a solemn but devilish smile, +Interesting how the mutants try and copy our creations. We should stomp them out quickly then.+
There was no need to say anything more, as everyone was in agreement to those words.
The Mutant shall die. There is no if's or but's about it for they are all a threat to the forge.
Soon they arrived at an opening, one where the light coming out from it was a lot more than anything else in the tunnels. However it was all still torch light, giving the room that was already a cream color to become a near blood red.
Even before the extermination crew arrived there was a series of rocks that were all thrown in their passage way.
+Hmm, they must have seen out lights.+ Deduced the grandmother with a small laugh.
+Would this by chance be their home then? We killed 38 of their kind already and have not seen any housing structures.+ Pointed out the Acillian as he prepared his stubber.
+By making an assumption that we just fought the warrior caste, there should be 60-100 of the mutants within the room after us. Those firing at us are likely undisciplined civilians.+ TalOS calculated as he wondered to himself for a moment…
+If they are seeking to defeat us with primitive weapons, then we shall become iron.+ Declared TalOS he shook his head at the assault of rounds.
Upon those words his fellow Tech Priest started to do the rituals necessary to make those words true. Of course TalOS could have led them in song, but it was the right of the highest ranking priest present to began the signing, +Our enemies think us weak in both machine and flesh, but they do not know we are strong in iron.+
+Strong in iron, we are strong in iron.+ Answered back TalOS and AL4N as the Canticle of Iron continued.
+With Iron we shall become invincible, their claws unable to dig into our flesh.+
+Strong in Iron, we are strong in Iron.+
As they sang TalOS could feel the machinery within his body resonate and his skin becoming something more akin to metal than of actual flesh. He was ready for the fight, just as AL4N and E11IE were, but they needed to get to the chorus.
+We are iron, in both flesh and metal. And with that, we face the enemies of the Machine God!+
+Strong in Iron, we are strong in Iron!+
+Strong in Iron, we are strong in Iron!+
Upon those words they began to take action. The first to show himself was the Acillian, who face the numerous stones and metal chunks that would have surely killed a normal man with ease. It did not though, instead his flesh receiving the attack like it was nothing and charging forward. TalOS was behind him well, securing the rush as they brought their hands and axe against them.
Over his head TalOS watched as three bolts of Volkite energy went into their enemies, the attack likely from E11IE giving her children suppressing fire. She, like any Magos of her rank, was a perfect shot that did not miss a single bolt of energy that was sent towards her enemy.
After three of their enemies were melted by Volkite fire TalOS and AL4N were upon the foolish combatants. TalOS with his axe turned six of them into around twelve pieces that were all scattered throughout the room. The last one that AL4N got a hold of had his head popped off his body by the sheer strength of the Acillian.
And just like that the fight was over, but the battle was not over. The two of them turned away from the encampment of weapons and arms and noted the several dozen homes and huts, all with mutants either slowly coming out of them or housing the mutants too scared to face reality.
+Strong in Iron, we are strong in Iron.+
The next few minutes were a blur, as the Mutants were left without any warriors or conscripts to defend themselves against the assault of the Mechanicum. Many of the houses were simply cleared out and molten with Volkite fire, while TalOS personally slaughtered mutants who were hiding from them.
It did not matter who the Mutants were, women, children, or their elderly. The Primarch, the Acillian, and the Magos did not care what state or kind of life they were. These creatures were all slotted for extermination, not even deserving the attention of the Fabricator General as it was the Arch Dominus who had written the declaration of their extermination.
+Strong in Iron, we are strong in Iron.+
Like a machine the Mutants were all cleared out, one home at a time. There would be the occasional resistance, but it did not matter when it came against the Omnissian Axe of the blessed hands of an Acillian.
The last location they came across was a mock throne, likely for some king who was killed so long ago. Such a thing was destroyed and torn asunder to expose the numerous mutant children who were hiding under its crude workmanship.
Normal men would have had second guesses here, wondering if they were on the right side. TalOS and his Acillian did not care though for these were enemies of the Machine God. Of course they would not give them the light of the next day.
However in an absurd way this was a blessing for the mutants. At least they would not be subjected to the experimentation of a Magos and Adept Genetor.
+Bless the Machine God, that is all of them.+ TalOS declared as he cleaned off the Omnissian Axe from all the blood he had collected.
+Two hundred sixty eight.+ Declared AL4N as he quickly administered the rite of clearing the chamber to his stubber, +We were more effective than any group before us, such is the will of the Machine God.+
TalOS smiled as he looked towards his son, +Indeed we were, stuff like this I will want you and your brothers to do more often. I shall be issuing a document once we get back to request permission for you all too began to look around for nests as well as other things.+
+And I am sure many of them will take you up on that honor. Such is our purpose.+
+We should be making our leave then.+ The happy tone of the Magos came through to the two men, +However TalOS I do not wish for my grandchildren to be nothing but uneducated barbarians. They should be taught the way of the Machine Cult as well.+
TalOS gave a simple nod to those words, +Of course, Mother, there is not a servant of the Machine God who does not value knowledge.+
+Good, good.+ She said with turning of her person, +However now that I think about it, you will still need to specialize them. Shall your sons be dedicated to the art of warfare or the knowledge that all within the cult are expected to know or even exceeding it.+
+So… are we warriors or priests?+ AL4N put it simply, +But what of my brothers? I… I guess I have never well, worked with them just as we have today.+
TalOS nodded, understanding AL4N's blight in the situation. Even if they were all under the same roof does not mean they would be brothers.
What shall he set up for the future, while all of these are good should he be focusing on something?
There was a small bit of awkwardness among those here, each of them looking at one another as if not knowing what to say. Each of them were massive men in their own rights, each of them having their genes infused with that of a superior abhuman known as TalOS. Still even with this relation they were still a little stumped on what to do.
It was not until an easily recognized face approached them, +Brothers, it is good you showed up. Have you gathered the weapons I asked you to?+
+O-Of course!+ Answered one of the Acillians while quickly getting themselves into formation, +We are heading out to exterminate the Mutants correct?+
+Indeed we are, brother.+ AL4N said to his brother while placing his hand on his shoulder, +And you do not need to hold yourself at attention, I'm not a Magos but your brother.+
+I… you are right.+ Answered the Acillian before he became just a little more confused, +But what are we to do then?+
+I can't really say, but we will try something.+ Answered AL4N as he patted his brother on the back and then broke away, +You guys got my message, right?+
+There are Mutants located in three caves fifteen clicks west of here.+ Pointed out one of their five brothers present, +We are to join you in their extermination.+
+You're correct CA1C. We are going over to kill some mutants in the name of the Machine God!+ Declared the Acillian as he raised his hand, +You guys remember the video sim I sent out a few weeks ago? It's the same creatures.+
To that the Acillians all looked towards their brother with anticipation. It was less that they were all blood hungry, but they had realized that their brother was now giving them information for their coming quarry. Each of them had taken in the simulation and ran through it numerous times, they were ready.
+So you all are with me, lets head out then.+ Declared the Acillian as he raised a fist high in the air, +We shall claim these creatures for the Machine God. Deus Mechanicus!+
The brothers did the same, the words shaking the ground just slightly, +Deus Mechanicus!+
And with that they all began to run for the garage, which in turn got them out of the eyes of the nearby servitor that TalOS had off handedly possessed. He cut off the feed with a small burning within his heart. It was happiness in a successful project.
+An interesting development.+ Admitted Arch Dominus J0LT as TalOS's eyes focused on the leader of Lucius's armies, +They are not like Skitarii, but newly found Junior Acolyte. I believe a majority of them were taken from the Manufactoriums?+
+That is correct. We found that vat grown was not producing the results we would have wanted. I have an assumption that they are lacking the spark necessary to become one of the Acillians.+ TalOS admitted as he quickly reviewed his notes, +Maybe in a different climate and available genepool we might have something more, but as of now it is easier to take from the factories.+
+And what of yourself?+ Asked the Dominus as he was likely looking through the entire roster of Acillians, +None of them seem to have your DNA before the augmentation process.+
+It has been determined that my DNA is not fully compatible with those of standard humans, thus making attempts at splicing together genes impossible.+ Declared TalOS, +As for Cloning, you have surely heard of the numerous warnings the Genetors speak when it is even considered.+
+'To clone the body is to create a mockery of the Machine God's work, thus he shall forever attempt to crush it.'+ The Dominus recited forbaden, +I would have at least thought the risk was justified, but I see you take very much after your Father.+
+Is there any reason not to listen to Magos C4R?+
+No, but there is an irregularity. Even if you do not share his genes you two think so closely together.+ Pointed out the Dominus, +Adherent fiercely to the tenants of the faith, yet you two strive to create within your limits. It must be a tightrope you two walk, one made by your own algorithms.+
+You say that, though I feel he lacks the heart that my mother has. As good as he is, I have rarely seen him ever express a shred of emotion, even when I called him Father for the first time.+
+Neurovaults will do that to those who employ them. Personally I see them useful when reviewing documentation and battles, not when I am conversing with my fellow Priest.+ Answered the Arch Dominus, +That is something many below me do not realize, that emotion is one of the core pieces of conversation and communication. Something your 'sons' are starting to learn.+
+Indeed, and learn they shall. I can't really do much for them since I never had a brother. I must have grown too fast to find any stable partners.+
+Possibly, though there is a 56% chance this shall be related to what I am here for.+ Announced the Arch Dominus as he sent TalOS a data package, +I was informed by the Fabricator General that you shall be the owner of these men, so because of that I wished to bring to you an offer.+
TalOS read over the document several times within the silences of a few seconds to fully comprehend the information, +You wish to induct me into the Domini?+
+That is true, I do.+ The Dominus announced openly, +Based on your personal performance records you can easily command both Skitarii and Princeps, the latter of which even the most senior of Domini find difficult. I have also noticed some modifications you were making during the battle, to operate such data without a battle program is something no ordinary freshly ordained Tech Priest should be capable of.+
TalOS nodded, knowing full well what he was talking about. He must have been suspicious from the overperformance all the Skitarii TalOS had commanded.
+Thus I am giving you this opportunity to join my men. If you were to accept I shall see it you are given access to the most prized of Machine Spirits and givin the best education we are capable of. Once we find those foul Xenos, I guarantee that you will lead your men in the first push towards the Plastoid's extermination. As for any other benefits, well, as you said you might have grown up a little too fast and not had any true peers. Hopefully there are Priests among my ranks who you can count on as more than just colleagues when you settle in.+
TalOS thought to himself for a moment. This indeed was a large opportunity for the future, something that far exceeded the other paths laid before him. Besides becoming a Dominus, TalOS could surely aim for other positions such as Enginseer, but the battlefield looks to be his ultimate field of study.
If he took up the offer here, it would not prevent his acceptance into the Holy Orders like the Genetors. There might be some conflict of duty, and when push comes to shove TalOS will need to choose between them, but he can easily do both at once.
TalOS looked over the documentation once, then again. The ideas that the Arch Dominus was right on the money, +Arch Dominus J0LT, I see no reason for me to not join. I shall join the ranks of the Domini from today onwards.+
The machine that was the Arch Dominus seemed to giving a slight laugh as he sent TalOS a welcome package, +Good, good. I shall be looking forward to your service to the Forge World.+
Upon those words time went by like a breeze, TalOS now given an additional occupation ontop of the numerous works that he was doing. During the day he was attending the sessions with the Domini, learning the ways of warfare and the numerous calculations that went into an engagement. After this, TalOS made his way to the Barracks of the Acillians to continue his work in producing more of the Superhumans for his use.
At this point in time TalOS was nine years of age, making him by far the youngest to have ever been given the rank of Dominus. It was also three years since the invasion of the Plastoids, as well as the creation of the Acillian Program.
Looking over the battlefield TalOS judged the ability of his troops, counting one hundred skitarii to his name. His enemy's location was unknown, but TalOS knew that he also possessed the same amount of Skitarii, meaning their forces were even.
Reverting to his archives TalOS took out the archives of 3UN 7ZU and analysed the battle field. They were equally matched, which of course meant that TalOS could offer to battle his fellow Dominus on the open field. However the Primarch knew that a one to one fight would likely result in a very close match.
Because of this he moved his sights on growing advantages. From the same author, he derived that deception would be the name of his game. If TalOS was able to get a two to one ratio of his troops for his enemy's, TalOS would easily be able to take the victory.
Because of this he quickly located several firing positions, placing a series of Skitarii among the rubble. At one location TalOS placed twenty four while the other Primarch arranged there to be only five. Knowing the capabilities of his enemy's senses, TalOS arranged his forces in a near perfect pattern where they could not be seen over the rubble.
Now the enemy approached, the twenty four welcoming what was a small group of skitarii sent over to keep them occupied. It was thirty seven in number, which gave them a 74% chance of running over the forces of Skitarii there. With such odds TalOS gave them the order to retreat, but not without sniping two Skitarii at the edge of their range.
The main chunk of the enemy's forces however were quickly slammed into the five Skitarii that TalOS had stationed. Quickly the Primarch gave them the order to escape, leaving one behind so that he could pause the enemy's advance just enough. With the sacrifice of a single soldier, TalOS was able to keep four of them alive.
Thus at this point in the game, it was two Skitarii for one of his own. Those were odds that TalOS could win by.
The Feign retreat was successful, as TalOS quickly tricked the troops of his enemy to arrive right in front of his fifty infantrymen. With a single thought he sent another Skitarii to its death as numerous attacks from the enemy ran into the Skitarii's digital body.
While that one died, it had caused eight of the enemy's Skitarii to fail in reacting to the ambush. While the enemy fired a good many bullets into TalOS's forces, he was easily able to mow down the enemy with superior firepower and tact. Of course he took damage as well, but by cycling the injured Skitarii with the fresh at the edge of the enemy's firing range he was able to kill three for every one Skitarii he lost.
And just like that TalOS had won. However the Primarch continued to take the play seriously as he picked off the now retreating Skitarii and moved on to reinforce the flank that he allowed to collapse.
With that he advanced forward and took out the rest. They stood no chance to superior numbers which granted TalOS the victory.
With that TalOS could hear the uncoupling of a Mechanrite and the approach of a smaller figure. Looking down TalOS saw the body of his fellow Dominus, D3X, extending a mechanrite to TalOS, +GG.+
+GG.+ TalOS responded back while reaching forward and shaking his fellow Dominus's hand, +You fared better than before, you were able to take out two more of my troops.+
+Processing, indeed I have. Improvement however is minimal compared to the entire ratio. Suggestions?+ Asked the Priest as he fitted all of his machinery into his cloak.
+You relied too much on vision. The Darkness is your enemy.+ Pointed out TalOS as he sent an infographic to his fellow.
+Analysing… indeed the employment of scouts would provide the best results. Cost of a single Skitarii is better than a unit.+ Admitted the man machine as he thought to himself.
TalOS took a moment and looked towards his internal clock, +I must go, Dominus D3X, I have other business that needs to be taken care of.+
+To the Acillian Project, correct?+ The Dominus asked with what TalOS could tell was spare traces of human curiosity, +I wish to see them, if I am given allowance.+
+Given, my sons are always open to new visitors.+ TalOS declared as he turned around and started walking out of the Battle Hall.
They traveled through the Forge City, now taking a small trip to the outskirts of the place. There sits a modest size facility that is comparable to a Manufactorium. As the two Tech Priests entered however it was obvious that this place was far more than that.
The first thing they could see was the outside, with vehicles of all types coming and leaving with at least 4-5 heavily armed men at the head. They were all much larger than anything his fellow Dominus had seen with the exception of battle forms and TalOS himself. Walking into the place they were welcomed with the buzz of industry, with many of the tables being used to create weapons and armaments while others had bodies of teenagers opened up for their augmentation.
As they walked into the place the two of them were stopped by a single Acillian running up to them. This fellow wore the cloak allotted to all military members of the Priest Hood, though this did little to cover his immense size and augmetics, +Father, I see you have brought company.+
+Dominus D3X here wished to see you all.+ TalOS answered as he presented the man, +He is second only to me among the more junior members of the Domini. Dominus, this here is my son and Mitarii, AL4N TURING.+
+Interesting…+ The Dominus moved forward and started to examine the Acillian, to which AL4N quickly locked himself up for inspection just like a Skitarii would, +Analysis, I see he has been modified to a perfect state of Crux Mechanis. Was he created with your own hands?+
+He was.+ TalOS championed as he looked over AL4N a few times, +He is one of my best, and the most receptive to training. He has proven himself able for his brothers and myself, scoring a total of three hundred sixty three mutants to his name.+
+Calculating information, he has performed several times above the normal capability of Skitarii. Records show those who come close are the Knights who patrol the Forge City.+ He looked over the Acillian again with a near gittiness if it was not for the Emotion Vaults, +Is it possible to see them operate?+
TalOS grew a small smile as he heard those words, +Of course I can show you how they fight, but why not first we go over and look at their creations. The Acillians are not just soldiers like the Skitarii are.+
+Parsing data fragments…+ The man machine looked at TalOS with a good bit of confusion, +Then I await your evidence.+
With a smile the duo moved through the place with AL4N following behind them in an attentive march. Going through the room they went by the room where numerous Acillians were currently being made, which was then followed by a small chamber of materials and equipment. Soon they arrived at the main floor where numerous large men and even a few Tech Priests were at work.
TalOS happily made his way to the end of the room and picked up a device, +This here is a Volkite Blaster created over a month by one of my Sons, J0HN MK4FFE.+
The Dominus handed over the device to his fellow Tech Priest who was close to TalOS's age in a mental sense and looked over the device over and over. A series of lasers quickly sprouted from his head that went over the device in a study full form.
+Data Retrieved, this Volkite is equal to that produced by Senior Acolytes. While not of the same standard necessary for acceptance into the Artisans, I would be willing to meet with J0HN MK4FFE.+ Declared the Tech Priest as he gave a solemn nod.
+Are you part of the Artisans?+ Asked TalOS as he gave a charming smile.
+Received. Yes I am.+ Admitted Dominus D3X as he swiftly began to make a series of minor modifications to the weapon within his hand, +To think that they are able to do so much already, have you considered preparing your Sons for field support roles such as Enginseer?+
+That has been a consideration, some are showing aptitude for it.+ TalOS admitted while giving some thought to his words, +However for now we are focusing on preparing for the front lines. I was able to commision a series of Power Armors based on what was sent over with us those many millennia ago.+
+Interesting, you think the Acillians will be able to employ such armaments?+
+From the most recent research we have done the Acillian variant was able to not only use many of the considered useless features, but we have already seen a 10% boost in strength among the Acillian using it.+
+Interesting. Affirming data sets given.+ The Tech Priest looked up to TalOS with an inquisitive eye, +You have yet to show me the performance of your sons.+
+AL4N, why don't we get four of your brothers in the Acillian Plate and out to the transports.+ TalOS declared as he began to make his way over, +Is there a specific species you wish to see killed?+
+The Virites.+ Declared the Tech Priest announced their quarry for the day.
Within fifteen minutes they were all on the road being transported to the nearest siting of the Virites. The Vehicle was an open top troop carrier that was being operated by one of the Acillian. The gunnery platform as well was operated by one of the staunch protectors, however they were mostly not needed thanks to the Mutants all being driven deep underground these days.
Maybe once before they were opportunistic during the night, but such a time was far gone the Mutants were close to extinction.
The ride was hours and would have been bothersome if any present were normal mortals. However three of those present were Acillians, holding themselves at attention as the exhibition of their persons was underway. The others were Domini, a tier of Tech Priest who during times of war had Authority unmatched by anyone else within the Forge World.
During this time TalOS was documenting the most recent reports of genetic modifications. The success rate of Acillian was coming closer to 78% which was a grand feat! The main issue they were finding now was that those with the necessary mind and genetic template were becoming harder and harder to find. The Acillians were currently at 1,012 strong, which resulted in the establishment of the Mitarii AL4N.
Looking the boy over TalOS noted the small bits of growth he was currently exhibiting. This growth was beyond that of a normal Acillian, and was thanks to the Magnificant. Just upon site of a copy TalOS realized that the Organ might be one of the most precious that TalOS himself could have. Not only did it give him an immense size, but it gave TalOS control over his genetic offspring.
A cloned version of that organ was not as powerful as his own, but TalOS realized that it, along with a series of others, seemed to cause his sons to act very differently around him. They would obey his every word and understand innately what it was TalOS desired of them, both of which were not even close to being diminished with the application of machines.
Thus was the reason he gave it to his commanders, for it improved their abilities tenfold and caused all who followed them to become even better in combat. TalOS was also a little more curious what it did to them in a social sense, but as AL4N understood TalOS's desires intimately he was sure these brothers were close to that very thing.
If you listened on the right wave length, you could hear the driver and gunner whispering amongst one another.
After hours of travel they finally arrived, a recently excavated tunnel that seemed to do far down into the earth. D3X raised his servo skull towards the entrance and shined a dim red light, revealing a few creatures that were quickly shot down by the Acillian who were among them.
Quickly the men assembled themselves around the two Tech Priests, creating a star formation with AL4N at the front of them all. While they were using a secured channel, TalOS being their father had access to listen in. While on the outside they moved like machines, that was something close to a fool's act.
+Advance forward and keep the Domini secured. Father should not need to raise his axe to defend himself today.+
+Understood.+ Replied another as they began to venture into the place, +Bright or dim?+
+Enemy has Dark Vision capabilities and we have MVPs. We should have them on.+ Pointed out another as he preparing a light, +Included in this is that we are exhibiting ourselves to the Dominus D3X.+
+Reasoning sound, confirming what U1T said.+ Ordered AL4N as he took out a small ball and mounted it on his shoulder. Quickly the rest of them did the same, causing the walls of the cave to be lit up as if it was day.
+Advancing… Make sure you all don't lag behind, you hear.+ Announced AL4N as he started his way in.
+It was only three decimeters last time.+ Pointed out another before he got a ping going through his ear, +Understood AL4N, understood! Only the best for Father and his friend.+
It did not take long for them all to make contact with the enemy, a series of creatures of different shapes and sizes quickly started throwing themselves at the Acillian's front line. A series of blaster shots rained throughout the hall as they advanced deeper into the caves. They did not stop as the horde approached with their fury.
TalOS could not help but feel absolute pride in his sons. If it was not for their precision aim and ability the Mutants would have already overtaken them. Indeed, Normal Skitarii would have fallen three times over by now by the simple fact that they could not administer a single shot to every single skull that made itself known.
Still, there was room for improvement.
The trip forward was relatively safe, well if you count the fact that every second they were in here a creature charged them in an attempt to kill the party. However this just proved how powerful the Acillians were, each of them a near perfect killing machine that was built and bred for combat.
It had gotten so safe that his fellow Tech Priest turned towards him, +Dominus TalOS, I never would have expected such proficiency from your men. They have exceeded my Hypothesis on their effectiveness by 66%.+
+Thank you, Dominus D3X. My Sons are quite the capable people when it comes to combat.+ TalOS admitted as he noticed the Acillians shifting to either more silent weapons or melee to allow the two to speak, +My initial plan is to incorporate them into strike teams to eliminate high value targets. By doing so, we can use their abilities to the max.+
+Assessing… those are reasonable assessments. However their armor itself can do more. I had taken a few moments to analyse it and noticed that it is resistant to all the most powerful forms of Plasma. Placing them in front of Skitarii, forcing the enemy to deal with them, could be a valued Stratagem.+
+Yeah, they would be able Vanguards.+ TalOS admitted as he mulled over the words.
+Sensory data taken in, you are not sure about my idea.+ The Dominus guessed correctly as they crushed the skulls of the mutated scum.
+Of course, I wonder if it is the best use for my children.+ TalOS admitted with his sons all fighting before him.
The two Domini looked forward to seeing the sheer brutality that was being displayed before them, the sheer might that might possibly bring down an empire. If the Acillians were listening in they did not make mention of it, continuing the fight through whatever brutality the Xenos had concocted.
+Reasoning Matrix tapped, as Artisans we desire the best for the Machine Spirits that we bring forth into the world. They are ones who are part of the Machine God, made with out hands.+ Pointed out the Dominus, +However we understand that they will be used in the coming war. The machines know it too and expect to be used in the hands of the Machine God's Skitarii. Do we rob them of their purpose?+
+Their purpose…+ TalOS mulled over those words for a moment, then a moment more.
TalOS's purpose was to bring about some sort of revolution within the Mechanicum, that much he could feel in his soul. As for his Children at the end of the day they were all made for war by his very own hands.
+You have a point, Dominus D3X, a very fine point. I will take it into consideration.+ TalOS admitted as he filed a recording of those words within one of the Cogitators near his brain.
+Your emotions cloud your judgement, Dominus TalOS. However those same emotions are what tamed Particep Semper so the Matrix declares that you try your best to keep them.+ Admitted the Dominus with a statement that would cause normal men's heads to spin.
+Thank you, Dominus D3X.+ However TalOS knew to take it as the compliment it was.
As they walked into a large room TalOS was not very surprised to see what was in front of him. The sheer amount of mutated bodies being thrown at them was very unusual after all.
Before them was a giant, much larger version of the Virite Parasite. If TalOS had to lean his educated guess he would assume this thing was some sort of queen. Such a thing would quickly explain away the fact the parasites did not show any form of reproduction within their persons and lifespans.
+Coming down the highest mountains the Knights came down, the Motor Force being caried through their bodies as they came as an avalanche against the Mechanicus.+ AL4N declared as he took out what was a recently crafted sword, +Oh Motor Force, make our fists carry the weight of Titans. DEUS MECHANICUS!+
+DEUS MECHANICUS!+
Upon those words the demeanor of all the warriors shifted just but a moment, their flesh and machines becoming energized with mechanical power. The Machine Spirits within their flesh was likely singing, ready to pounce as the Mitarii AL4N drew back his sword.
+CHARGE!+
With those words the five Acillians went forward and charged the creature. Quickly two of them stopped and mounted their armaments in a firing position where they began to ring shot after shot into the monster. TalOS noted how the attacks turned what flesh the Queen had into a toxic green much that was so far divorced from the dark red she naturally had.
Tendrils quickly started to move around the room and throw themselves at the Acillians who were still charging. Many of them were shot down but some still made it far enough that there might have been a problem.
There was no problem however. Instead the Acillians at the sides took out small daggers and began to stab into the tendrils with a fury. The flesh tried to crush these men, however their augmented bodies held true as they adopted the strength of Knights!
That however did leave the last one, the Mitarii AL4N, to the attack with a righteous fury. To the eyes of a baseline human you could barely keep up. This was however child's play for both the Domini as they watched the Acillian reach the queen's face and puncture her face with the blade.
With a mighty warcry the Acillian quickly started running across the face of the creature, creating a massive scar that bled rapidly into the cave itself. The Queen tried to do something but it turned out she was too large to navigate the room able enough, resulting in her 'neck' being sliced open.
As all this was happening twelve rounds of Volkite Blaster fire was sent hurtling into the wound that AL4N just created. The blood turned into steam as the heat from the laser guns singed the wound. However Volkite did not cauterize the wound, far from it, as the wound became several times deeper as the energy bolts traveled several yards into the creature.
The pain the creature was suffering at this point was far too much. Such was the problems with flesh as the creature could not stop the pain in an attempt to try and save itself. Instead it left itself open for the attack by AL4N as he ran into the wound that was just created and started to kill it from the inside. He did not need to do much as the flaying of the creature was stopped within only a minute of his entrance into it.
Only a minute later the Acillian finished carving his way out of the fleshy exterior of the creature. Without even a second though the Acillian handed it to one of his fellows, who took out an oiled cloth and rubbed down the blade so that none of the blood would cause it to rust.
+...Processing…+ The Dominus said as TalOS worried his systems might have accidentally crashed, +New Hypothesis has been thrown out. Assessment of the Acillian increased. They are perfect Machines of War.+
+Indeed they-!+ TalOS stopped his thoughts and words as a single somehow made its way down into the cave. Only emergency broadcasting networks would be able to piece the earth this deep, which everyone present agreed it was.
-{Location of Plastoid Homeworld Found. Forwarding Coordinates to All Personnel. Prepare for War.}-
