**Author's note: This giant chapter is actually three chapters stitched together. We're off to the costume ball at the next chapter!**
After breakfast, the Fallen, along with Magos Amee, gave me a short tour of their monastery. It ended with a visit to a dark chapel lined with Imperial religious scenes of beautifully decorated stained glass, each illuminated from behind with a soft glow. It reminded me of being in a smallish Catholic church back home, and the scent of spicy incense filled the air around me in a cloud of mysterious religiosity. It even made me somewhat homesick.
In this chapel, I was also ambushed with some sort of anointing ceremony, where each marine kneeled before me, stating their name and purpose. I was surprised to hear each Fallen swear themselves to me, and to follow my wisdom and teachings. While this definitely made me uncomfortable to hear, my laurels modulated my emotions enough so that I didn't show it, and even allowed me to calmly accept each Fallen's servitude. Afterward, I was given a small photo of planetary governor Langwidere by Master Foras. She was a beautiful woman with thick curled dark hair, porcelain skin, intelligent green eyes, and impeccably done makeup.
I quietly asked Rezel if the earlier ceremony meant they were all coming aboard with me when we left this world, and, thank goodness, I was informed that they now had duties elsewhere in the galaxy considering its rapidly changing fate. They would act under my instruction, though, should I request anything of them should I meet them again on the road.
"We've been waiting for you to fall from heaven for thousands of years, Inheritor. We will follow where you lead, and will act as your heralds as you continue on your holy quest," even Cypher said after pledging himself. This was blowing my mind!
"We have a request to make as well," Rezel said after the ceremony in the chapel was complete. "The Emperor left behind sacred relics that became treasured artifacts. We may be separated for a time, and, we have been curious if you could offer us something of your person to bring us hope as we travel the stars?"
Wait, really? Did these guys want, like, my bath water or something? I slowly asked, "What was it that you had in mind? This is really all new to me. I didn't get an instruction manual or anything."
With a peculiar tickle of my Sight, I had my answer. As I had asked this, I heard various marines think, "a lock of hair", or "a vial of blood". Someone even poetically thought, "Three tears encased in crystal". While this was still wildly weird to me deep down, it wasn't that difficult to oblige them, so I chose the easiest thing to offer.
"Would a lock of my hair be okay? I mean, why is this important? My hair is just my hair. It doesn't have special properties, as I know."
The marines all smiled knowingly. "As you grow in strength, so does everyone and everything associated with you. Your soul is suffused with divine strength, and anything that was a part of you has a felicitous energy. A single lock of the Emperor's hair has been kept by one of our other monasteries, and we believe it has contributed to their victories over Chaos over many thousands of years."
I shrugged. I didn't like this, and thought it was a bit creepy, but an internal sense told me again that it couldn't hurt. Trazyn, I remembered, also had a lock of my hair, so I would just get the other side trimmed so I could be even.
"Alright," I nodded. "Do you guys have any scissors or-?" I started to ask until I remembered that I had been carrying a pair of holy scissors this entire time. Oh, that was convenient.
"I guess I'd like to show these off too. Along with the Lian using the Lion Sword, the two of us destroyed Grikk'ahn with this," I said, removing the concealed Nemeses Argentum from my breast pocket. My magic scissors had been camouflaged as normal scissors so I wouldn't get in trouble for carrying around a weapon in Evna. Right now, the scissors looked short and blunted in my hands, but with a nudge of my Sight, they shimmered, and grew long, pointed, and exceedingly shiny. Just as they revealed themselves, they glowed, and then, grew a slight bit longer than they had been before in my hands. These scissors could now be wielded effectively as some kind of stiletto.
Brief gasps echoed through the chapel, and whispers were heard through this sacred hidden space. I grinned, and held the scissors like a long dagger before me. "Anathema blades, I was told. I guess I got my confirmation when I telekinetically hurled these into Grikk'Ahn's eye just as Lian also skewered that Daemon Prince, destroying him forever," I said, displaying the artifact with pride. "They've been getting bigger as I get stronger." I shook my head and choked a laugh. "You know, the Emperor gets a giant flaming sword, and I get a pair of scissors. I was told that these will eventually become two swords, though, so that's good."
"May I see the blades, Inheritor?" Rezel asked beside me. I handed the artifact to the Librarian, who took it gently in his large hands. He moved his bare fingers along each of the scissor blades, and closed his eyes. Interestingly, a flash of blue-white flame raced along one of the blades, and a brief shimmer of psychic energy emerged from around the Librarian's head.
"Yes, these are two blades disguised together. After sufficient energy has been invested into their metal, I believe these will split apart. Instead of one sword, you will eventually have two. Right now, the artifact still thirsts and is integrating you into itself, but you are correct. These are two disguised blades."
That was really interesting, I had to admit. But then, I remembered that not only was I not ambidextrous, I could not wield swords in combat, so I didn't know what I would do with two holy blades. A question then welled up in me, as I had never really gotten an answer from Nabopolassar, or the two witnesses. "So, I found this in a farmhouse in Levant. It wasn't under guard or anything. Can you tell me anything else about this artifact? I mean, someone had to have made these."
"The origins of most anathema blades are shrouded in the mysteries of the Dark Age of Technology, I'm afraid. How and why they ended up in your hands is a mystery of fate, but a welcome one for humanity." A short grin cut across Rezel's gaunt features.
I decided not to tell these men that the reason I had these scissors was because Tzeentch told me where to find them. That god had essentially put this exceedingly holy weapon in my hand. The longer time went on, the more confusing my whole situation was becoming. Didn't the Emperor absolutely hate Chaos, and Chaos hated him? Why was Tzeentch continuing to help me? Probably because this was all entertainment to him, I conceded to myself as I took my scissor blades in my hand, and quickly snipped a section of my white hair opposite the area where Trazyn had given me a haircut. I then offered it to the Librarian, who took it gratefully as I put the Nemeses Argentum back in my pocket.
A short time afterward, we were flying back the Divine Retribution to briefly oversee the initial delivery of supplies promised by Nimmie Amee. I rode in Magos Amee's private shuttle with Lian and Cypher, while Librarian Rezel, Master Foras, and two other marines flew behind us in another flyer. The Fallen had requested a tour of my ship, and I decided to oblige them.
When we arrived at the port, they had finished cleaning the squashed Chaos Americans from the tarmac, and two large palettes of supplies stood waiting for someone to open the ship. I could see many boxes labeled for foodstuffs and general essentials. I was very glad that Magos Amee had set all this up. Worrying about supplies, and eating terrible paste had not been so much fun in the last few weeks. The metal spider lady stood on the tarmac, and began to direct her servitors and adepts as the Fallen followed me to the ship.
The Divine Retribution opened up even before I made the request, and at the top of the gangway, Virgil and Null stood to welcome us. Null then appeared visually distraught when he saw the handful of Fallen loping behind me in their grey shrouds. Earlier, they had also informed me that they wear casual grey shrouds when out in public instead of their obvious white ones, but to me, it hardly mattered, as their size always made them obvious in a crowd.
"I certainly hope we're not seeing more crew here!" Null sputtered as I walked up the gangway.
"Oh no, they just want a tour. They're okay. They're good boys. I said it was fine," I replied, not really in the mood to argue.
"But, you-"
I felt my Corona brighten as I immediately pinned Null with my eyes. "I said it was fine," I snapped.
Null frantically nodded, and both he and Virgil walked back inside. Sniffing, I pulled my halo back as I entered my ship.
Is everything alright? I heard Rezel ask behind me.
Everything is fine. That's just Null, and he used to be an Explorator Archmagos, so he is accustomed to being in charge, so sometimes, he has issues with authority, I telepathically replied as I stepped up into the entryway of the Divine Retribution.
The souls of the Fallen behind me ignited with palpable wonder as they stepped aboard, which I could easily sense behind me. Lian and I gave these Astartes a short tour, and each one of these men appeared absolutely amazed and enraptured to be here, touching the metal plated walls of the Divine Retribution as if reminding themselves that it was real.
For the tour's finale, I brought them upstairs to the bridge.
"Now, I'm not sure if any of you boys have seen the one on Terra, but this one is the one I sit on," I said proudly as I stepped into large three-windowed bridge. "The center throne is mine. The white bird mutant you saw me with is actually my copilot, and he sits on the right throne. He's also a Traveler, like me, but he comes from a different place than I do. Or, at least a different time."
"Incredible," Cypher said, gazing at the three thrones in wonder. "You pilot this grand machine by sitting in the central throne?"
I nodded. "Yeah. I act as its Gellar Field analog, and when I sit on it, it greatly magnifies my energy. Here, check this out," I said as I stepped over to my throne.
Taking a breath, I sat down, and willed the vessel to attach and integrate me into itself. With a sigh, I felt my consciousness expand outward as I became the ship. "And now, my spirit is distributed through this vessel," I informed them, my voice echoing powerfully in this room. "It even has a sort of Astronomican equivalent. I'd turn it on right now to show you, but we're sitting on a planet, so that's probably not a good idea. I burned a cloud of daemons with it coming over here," I informed the Fallen proudly.
"Your voice and presence becomes remarkably powerful when you're connected," Cypher observed.
"Indeed," Rezel added.
"When it is being piloted in the Warp, she becomes a small sun of holy power," Lian added with an almost boyish excitement. "No daemon can stand up to her might."
That was flattering, I thought, finding myself smiling at their words. Feeling a little whimsical, I decided to add, "I can move the wings like a normal bird, too! Watch!"
Slowly, I lifted my left wing, and lightly extended my feathers. Around me, tiny gasps of surprise and wonder alighted as they witnessed me move. Curious, I slowly turned my head, and observed the little creatures who marveled at me outside. They would be supplying my crew with foodstuffs, water, and supplies, and were just about ready to begin hauling the packages up my gangway. Why weren't they using my freight entryway, I wondered. I effortlessly opened a larger entryway along my side facing the helpful souls, and extended a larger ramp for my deliveries. There! Then, I straightened my head again, and willed the Divine Retribution to disconnect me.
"So, that's it," I informed my visitors in my normal voice. "You guys might know this, but I've been told that this ship was made by the Old Ones to make great leaders from desperate situations. The Emperor piloted this vessel a long time ago during the Dark Age of Technology, and he came from a universe very similar to mine. I think Malcador was on this ship with him too, but I'm not sure."
Hearing me say this, the Fallen fell into stunned silence for a short time. Finally, Cypher spoke up: "Thank you ever so much for this insight. We have some knowledge on Travelers, and of the mighty mythical ship that the mightiest of their kind pilots, but most information is fractured and lost. This information enriches us, and will be treasured." The infamous Fallen bowed low. Following his lead, each of the other marines kneeled on the floor of the bridge, their souls now filled with borderline worship. "Many of us now have tasks elsewhere, but when you come to your full glory, we will delight in what you will become."
"Uh, thanks," I replied nervously to that.
"I have a question, if I may," Rezel spoke as he and the rest of the Fallen stood back up. I also stood up from my throne, and stretched.
"Go ahead," I turned to face the Librarian, who had his eyes fixed on the leftmost throne.
"From what you describe, you have one psyker copilot, not two. Is that correct?"
"Yeah," I replied with a nod. "I know you guys don't like mutants, but Alberich's integration was sort of an accident, and he also saved my life multiple times. He's also a Traveler, and I'm pretty sure native souls in this universe can't integrate into the ship, so there aren't many candidates for copilots for me to choose from."
"Ah," Rezel replied somewhat sadly as he walked to the leftmost throne, touching its metal. "Pity," he cooed. "But, I suppose that would be somewhat good for you, as very few people could attempt to steal this sacred machine."
"Thinking of flying away from us, Rezel?" Foras joked.
"To serve as a copilot on the wings of this glorious machine would be a grand dream for anyone seeking to change mankind's destiny for the better. Truthfully, Master Foras, I would accept such an assignment readily."
"And I would be forced to allow you," Master Foras said to the Librarian warmly before turning back to me. "For the Inheritor of Mankind is who we have sought for thousands of years, and who we will serve to usher in humanity's new and mended destinies. For whatever skin the Inheritor wears, it is the skin of an avatar of the divine, and we will follow her." Foras then bowed before me again, his scarred face serious. "Thy will be done. Praise you, Inheritor."
Another peculiar sense of satisfaction rose in me. It was getting more and more pleasant to hear such things from people, and now knowing that I had a small group of Fallen that were devoted to me delighted me on some kind of instinctual level.
Luckily, this odd little incident was interrupted by Virgil teleporting in beside me, which caused all the Fallen to immediately react and ready their large fists for battle.
"Hey, stop!" I quickly said before anyone could start punching poor Virgil, who was now flickering in fright. "This is Virgil, and he's a hologram. He used to serve under Null with his Explorator fleet, and now he's a hologram, and a sort of advisor."
Virgil nodded quickly as he observed all the hostile Fallen, who were now relaxing.
"Our apologies, Virgil. My name is Master Foras, and with me, my Dark Angel brothers. We have presently sworn ourselves to the Inheritor, and I supposed our instincts are quite sensitive right now."
After a sigh of relief, Virgil barked, "You got that right!" He then turned to me, and said, "They are beginning deliveries of your supplies through various servitors, and our water will also be refreshed as well. Null has authorized it, but I am just making sure with you." Virgil said quickly as he eyed the Fallen looming around us. "There is also a man waiting to speak to you downstairs. He requests entry to the ship, and Null is reluctant to receive him, and says to have him speak to you. I have not seen him before."
"Good," I replied. "Take me to him."
Now looking down from the gangway again with the Fallen covertly standing behind me, I saw Talbot's smiling face looking up. "Good morning, my lady! Excellent to see you up bright and early. And, busy!"
Suspicion now gripped me as I remembered that Talbot had been called away from me by the planetary governor right before I had been attacked by cultists. I really hoped that was just coincidence. "Good morning, Talbot. Just overseeing some deliveries here. Missed you yesterday. Maybe you heard, but I was assaulted by madmen shortly after you left. And, some people tried to break into my ship."
"Ah, I do apologize for all of this inconvenience. I heard about it just this morning. We take security very seriously here in Evna, and I am here to offer you three million extra in script as compensation, delivered by Mr. Sinclair in greatest apology."
Throwing money at a problem to make it go away was very much a "I'm a rich person who got caught fucking up" thing, and somehow, it didn't make me feel better or more secure. I looked down at Talbot, who was wearing a bright blue suit and a fake smile this morning. Since I had my little job to do tonight to help save this world from Chaos, I decided to not worry about this too much, and I simply replied with, "Okay."
"Are you in requirement of anything today, madam?" Talbot asked as a servitor stumbled behind him, holding a water hose. "The costume ball is tonight, and I'd like to arrange your transportation to the governor's palace. I have been informed that Silk-Hand himself will be attending to your dressing this afternoon, and that you will need to be back in your hotel room then for your preparations."
"Alright," I replied to that. I remained standing at the top of the gangway, not moving further down to speak to Talbot, and not quite trusting him anymore. The ship vibrated slightly as the first palette of supplies was hauled upward. "Tell me how I and my escort are getting to the governor's place, then."
I am listening to this behind you, Inheritor, in case there is any deception, I heard Rezel psychically whisper to me.
Good, because these people are shady, I replied.
"Mr. Sinclair is sending one of his personal luxury shuttles to your hotel at sundown, so be ready when we come for you. You will be contacted beforehand when they are on their way. Bring an appetite as well, as a feast has been prepared!"
Good thing I have magic powers so I could just check anything I want to for poison, I thought. I really hoped I wouldn't see Raula White at this ball, but it was sounding more and more like that cult leader was friendly with the governor now, so I should just suck it up, brainwash her, and then leave this world.
"Understood. I don't think I really need you for anything else today, so you're free to go," I replied, my voice somewhat cold.
"Thank you, my lady," Talbot replied. "And I'd just like to say before I go, that your leaf crown is most beautiful. It accentuates your eyes, almost making you appear like our new God-Empress!"
"Yeah, isn't that something..." I mumbled as Talbot bowed before turning around and heading back to the terminal building outside my ship. Behind me, I could actually hear stifled space marine laughter echoing through the metal interior of the ship.
"Isn't that intriguing? Whatever gave him that notion?" I heard Cypher chuckle above me. "But truthfully, I do now wonder where you found that crown. Something as valuable as what you wear would no doubt be very difficult to procure."
I turned back to the Fallen on my ship. "So, you guys don't know who delivered this either?" I asked, pointing at my laurel crown. "I came back to my penthouse yesterday, and someone had delivered this in a sealed box. On the outside of the box, it said 'Sit nomen viator benedictum.'" Realizing that I had finally memorized that Traveler motto, I smiled. Took me long enough.
"The name of the Traveler is blessed," Cypher repeated back to me, translating what I had just said. He then made a thoughtful noise. "This is a motto often found associated with the hidden mysteries of the Travelers. Over thousands of years, two separate hidden caches of information were discovered by our Brotherhood, and each had been inscribed with that particular phrase. If it is a phrase left by a group, or by an individual, we know not. We hunt the information regardless."
While I was thrilled that I had my crown, the mystery surrounding its origin and whoever was using that motto was really perplexing. Eventually, I hoped that my life would become less confusing.
After another brief meeting with the Fallen on the Divine Retribution, it was decided that two brothers would stay behind and stand watch over the vessel along with Nimmie Amee's Wheelers and Null's servitors. These two were Lian and Librarian Rezel, who happily took up the task. Rezel's psychic strength was honed enough that he could effortlessly contact me across the city too, so that was a bonus. The longer I spoke with the Librarian, the more I found that I liked him. He was simultaneously both acerbic and warm, as well as somewhat fatherly toward Lian, which was very wholesome to see when they interacted. I even made an attempt to see if the Divine Retribution could integrate him as a copilot on the leftmost throne, but the vessel's machine spirit still couldn't recognize him. Only Travelers could pilot this vessel in any capacity.
As the other marines disembarked, and the supplies were nearly all on board, Cypher pulled me aside again.
"Where will you be going after this, Inheritor? Do you have a destination?" the very famous 40k main character asked, his voice a velvet purr above me.
"Yeah," I answered, standing just inside the Divine Retribution. "I'm going to Molech."
A sense of incredulous (but very pleased) surprise and awe echoed from the Fallen's soul. "Molech?" He asked. "You're going to the Gateway, aren't you? The Deep Warp?"
"Yes, I am," I answered without telling him why. "Do you know about that world?"
"Somewhat. Your predecessor knew that world as well. Molech features in many mysteries and rumors concerning him, actually."
"What did he find there?" I cautiously asked. "Do you know?"
"He found the salvation for humankind, from what I have been told. But aside from that, I know little. I do know that it is heavily guarded, and has been for over ten thousand years. I warn you, there is a permanent Imperial military presence on Molech, one which may not quite understand you or your intentions."
"Well, I have to find a way through that gate somehow," I replied with a sigh. I closed my eyes, feeling the mid morning breeze against my cheeks. I thought about if I would ever see my friends or family again. Was I even still alive back home? "I have to. I have to find a way."
"Yes. You do," Cypher replied to me.
A pause as we both watched the busy tarmac below, the Fallen standing behind me in the shadows.
I turned around, and looked upward at the infamous marine, peering under his white hood. From here, I could see that his face was criss-crossed with scars, and his eyes were pale blue and filled with emotive wisdom. Even though I already knew the answer, I asked, "You're going to go and find Guilliman now, aren't you?"
Cypher looked downward, and I could see that under his hood that he was now smiling. "This universe now has hope again, and my job to usher it in as best I can, for both my legion, and humanity itself," the Fallen answered rather cryptically.
I turned back outside as I watched Nimmie Amee chat and joke with Null on the tarmac again. This was going to be one hell of an insane day, I contemplated.
I felt the Fallen's hand gently touch my shoulder, and grip me with a comforting pressure. "Thank you for bringing us a new tomorrow, Inheritor. You have a long and difficult road before you, but I have faith that you'll make the correct decision when the time comes. We need you here in this universe."
I didn't reply to that, only halfway listening to what Cypher had said as I ruminated on my difficult future. "Yeah, I'll do my best, and-"
I turned around, and discovered that Cypher had vanished into thin air! Blinking and confused, I turned back to the tarmac. Nimmie and Null were still speaking genially together, and I now witnessed Lian making his way over to the two of them, his new sword still on his back.
Again, I turned around, looking within the Divine Retribution once again, and found no trace of the infamous Fallen. I even dipped into my Sight and swept it outward, which caused my halo to flash like a matchstick. The most I could sense was an indistinct but powerful presence that was currently fleeing along the port, almost as if it was slinking from shadow to shadow like a rumor in the dark. I actually found its presence fascinating, until my senses were able to perceive Virgil popping into existence beside me.
I turned to the hologram, and dropped my Corona. "Did you see where he went?" I asked, looking around. "Where did he go?"
"Where did who go?"
"Cypher," I replied. "He's gone. He was just here. I was just talking to him and he was standing behind me."
"You appear to be alone," Virgil answered me cautiously.
I decided to use this opportunity to test the psychic connection I had with Rezel, who was currently on the tarmac now speaking with Lian, Null, and Magos Amee. "Give me a minute, Virg. I'm going to talk to that Librarian and ask him."
Virgil nodded, and stood beside me.
Rezel? I telepathically asked, pushing my words outward and into the Librarian's mind.
Yes, Inheritor? he instantly replied as I saw his body tense, and he turned upward toward me.
Cypher just vanished into thin air. Did you see where he went?
He tends to do that, the Librarian replied. Lord Cypher comes and goes as he pleases. I imagine that he is on his way to his next task, the one you have given him, Rezel replied. Magos Amee states that her deliveries are now complete. For security and with your blessing, both I and Paladin Lian will remain here and guard your vessel as you engage in your task this evening, if this is amenable to you. Magos Amee will also be departing soon and will leave a group of Wheelers to also guard this vessel.
Sounds like a good plan, I mentally replied.
After saying goodbye to Virgil and leaving my small force to guard my ship, I was now on a shuttle back to my hotel. My head somewhat ached from all the psychic exertion of today, and I needed to save my strength before heading to the palace this evening.
Alberich greeted me at the door of our penthouse, his white head feathers ruffled with concern. "Someone sent you these flowers," the beastman indicated, pointing at a bouquet of what appeared to be blue roses in a fragrant bundle sitting on the dining room table in a glass vase. "I scanned it with my ability, but can find no issue with them."
I yawned. "It didn't come with a card or anything?"
Alberich handed me a small envelope, and I opened it. It was an apology signed by Evring and a man named "Grand Advisor Grigori", which I had heard referenced a few times now, but not seen. In the letter, it was referenced again that we'd be receiving three million in script as compensation for what happened to the Divine Retribution, and for the Chaos American attack yesterday. In the letter, it was assured that the matters were being "looked into", which I seriously doubted.
I explained what had happened this morning to Alberich and the two witnesses, who appeared greatly concerned. Suddenly feeling suspicious of surveillance, I then pulled Alberich aside, and telepathically informed him, I've been given a dangerous assignment for tonight. I agreed to brainwash the planetary governor. This planet is in trouble with Chaos, and the governor is allowing a big Slaanesh cult of Am'Erika to flourish.
Alberich's features became grave. You plan to mentally assault the leader of this entire world tonight at her own residence?
I sighed heavily, realizing how dangerous this sounded. Yeah, because if I don't, there's a good chance that Slaanesh worship proliferates and this world will end up consumed by Chaos. I was able to remove all those memories of the people in the restaurant last night, so someone like me should be able to do this. I think I just have to get close to the governor, and get her alone.
My Leader, I- Alberich couldn't even continue for a moment, his eyes wide as he attempted to digest the danger of what I was speaking of. He began to gently shake his head, justifiably intimidated by what I had just said. And you will do this dressed as the Empress of Mankind? Incredible.
Yeah, I know, it's crazy, I replied.
The two witnesses stood by, waiting for me to speak openly on what I was talking to Alberich about. Since I very much doubted anyone could decipher ancient Nubuan, I felt safe in informing Ennoia and Morai in voice, and described my fun dangerous brainwashing assignment this evening.
Both sisters appeared visibly perturbed, and Morai even gasped. "Do not fear, for we have full faith in your abilities, blessed Omega. You are chosen by fate, and we are sworn to you no matter where you go."
"This all sounds so dangerous. Between those cultists attacking me, that daemon at dinner last night, and now, people trying to get into my ship, I'll be glad when I'm off this world," I informed my companions with a yawn. "The costumer will be here in a few hours, so I think I'll get some rest. You guys can take the script we just got and do whatever. Shopping, gambling, I don't care. You all have keys. Just keep an eye out." I said in Nubuan for the witnesses to understand before saying the same thing to Alberich using telepathy.
"We will stay here and guard you, blessed Omega. This planet is too dangerous for recreation now, it seems," Ennoia said to me as Alberich peered outside, obviously suspicious.
"That it is," I confirmed before heading back to my room. "Alright everyone, I'm gonna take a nap so I have enough magic points for tonight. I'm tired from everything already." Closing the door before Alberich could be annoying by asking me what "magic points" were, I removed my shoes and curled up in bed.
...Only to find myself sitting at a table, staring blankly into a cup of coffee. It was lit darkly in here, and the faint smell of stale cigarette smoke hung in the air. I cautiously looked up, and it appeared that I was now in a sort of dive bar, and that I was seated at a cozy booth by myself with worn red cushions. There was absolutely no transition between laying down on my bed, and being here; I had simply closed my eyes on my bed and then opened them to find myself in this strange place.
Despite how outwardly normal my current settings appeared, my instincts were on high alert. Whatever this place was, it felt obscenely dangerous. When I looked at my cup of coffee again, it glitched out of existence, and for a brief moment, the entire restaurant also glitched along with it, and became a vast vaulted hall of blue crystal and multicolored light. As quickly as it had appeared, I was now back in the warm tavern, but now, the seat cushions were bright blue.
There weren't many people here, I cautiously noted, and a large man with copper skin and long hair had his head down on the bar on the opposite side of the room. He appeared to be very drunk, but no one was shooing him away. A pale man with long black hair wearing a studded motorcycle jacket placed a few coins in a jukebox, which started playing "Hotel California" as I watched.
"Welcome, brothers and sisters. It is a delight to see all of us here today. My throne basks in our presences," a familiar man spoke behind me in another booth. Immediately, I was able to then recognize Tzeentch's malevolent polyphonic voice. I froze, even holding my breath, and listened as best I could. It actually seemed as if the god was ignorant of my presence here!
"We're all so very clever, we are!" a woman laughed.
"Yes, yes certainly! We are the cleverest of gods," another man spoke.
A blonde waitress passed my table, and walked to the booth behind me that contained the strange cheerful gathering. "Welcome to Thoth's Tavern! How y'all doing today?" she said in an out-of-place Texan accent.
"We're doing delightedly, little morsel. In fact, we made this entire venue to speak to ourselves about our genius!"
The waitress didn't seem to have any problem with what had been said to her, and simply replied with, "Great, well, today's specials are listed in the back of your menu. Can I get you started with drinks?"
"Yes, I'd like an ocean filled with Magnus the Red's tears!" one male individual who wasn't the Tzeentch I was familiar with replied.
"I'd enjoy Ahriman's crushing disappointment over the lost Rubrics of the Thousand Sons. Tall glass. Oh, and put an umbrella on it!" the woman said with an excited squeak in her voice.
"I think I'll have the rare drink of the brewing insanity within the American intelligence agent tasked with understanding the esoteric ramifications behind the existence of an infinite universe and the unknowable intelligences that watch him hungrily from beyond his perceived reality!" a third new male voice said with an evil giggle.
"And I'd like the nectar of hope exuded from my new Empress toy," the familiar Tzeentch voice said. "She's been doing quite well, all according to plans, yes! The little lost lamb grows fatter and fatter under the glut of human hope she is causing, making us ever stronger! And later, when she is fattened to our satisfaction, our feast will be sublime! A harvest for the ages!"
The waitress, again, saw absolutely nothing wrong with the bizarre topics this group spoke of, and simply replied with, "Alright, I'll put those orders in for y'all! Just holler if you need anything!" the remarkably out of place blonde Texan woman said brightly to the eldritch terrors seated in the booth next to me before heading to the bar.
"It is getting easier and easier to taste that new reality, isn't it?" the woman in the group laughed.
"Easier and easier! Yes! New tastes! Novelty!" a man said, before humming along to Hotel California, which played in the background. I was aware that the waitress was now standing aside the copper-skinned drunk, and after a short time, she pulled away a clear glass filled with a swirling liquid that filled me with misery when I focused on it.
I looked away, and put my attention back on eavesdropping.
"Soon, we'll be able to gorge ourselves fully. A whole new universe to play within! A new ocean for us to drink endlessly!"
The voices behind me began to whisper and gibber with excitement. "And our new lamb! A delight! Growing ever stronger and fatter for us!"
"Yes, yes indeed! Humans have begun their worship, and even some Astartes! Soon, even more Astartes shall sing their praises to her! Don't you think we're doing a fantastic job? No doubts in our eventual success?"
"Of course! We agree because we are you! How silly of us to even entertain the prospect that there might be doubt in our grand plans!"
"No, no! Yes, our plans are perfect!"
What the fuck was all this about? I thought, halfway in a panic over this unsettling vision. A knock on my booth nearly caused me to scream in fright, and then, I saw the same waitress that had just passed by my booth. "Welcome to Thoth's!" the sunny southern Texan woman said to me. "Can I start you off with a drink?" I noticed that she held a different empty short glass in her hand, and placed it on the table as she spoke to me.
"Uh," I looked down, and a menu magically appeared in my hand. On the sheet of paper, words configured themselves to say, "YOU ARE IN DANGER" repeated over and over again before I answered her with, "I'll just have the water for now."
"Alright, I'll be right back!" she cheerfully replied before taking the shot glass away from my table. Before she removed the glass, I noticed then that it had mysteriously filled itself with a thick honey-colored liquid.
The obscene group behind me had not recognized my voice, or at least, they pretended not to. I strained my ears to listen as they gibbered and flattered themselves. They were now speaking in hushed tones, as if arguing as to what they should do. "We still need a fetter. We can't do this without a fetter. Can't open a door without a key!"
"She's the fetter. A soul rooted in their reality. She will become us, and lead us to a new delicious place!"
"Don't get ahead of ourselves," one man said. "Khorne must be subverted first, and-"
Suddenly, there was a large man with long white hair sitting across from me in my booth! I gasped, but was able to keep myself quiet. This newcomer was familiar somehow, and his bright gold eyes shimmered at me seriously. He wore a dark suit of unusual sleek body armor, and a red cloak fell partially over his front, giving him a mysterious but regal presence. On his head, he wore a crown that was absolutely encrusted with various gemstones that beheld a strange luminosity. The stranger raised his finger to his mouth in a bid for me to remain silent, and then, placed a finger down on the menu before me. It now said, "GO TO THE PARTY, BUT SEND YOUR CREW TO YOUR VESSEL BEFORE SUNDOWN" over and over again. Flashes and images of fire and destruction flickered deep in my mind's eye.
"You should not be here, little sister. You should go," he whispered to me, his luminous gold eyes filled with worry.
Before I could even ask for clarification, the form of the strange man before me transfigured to Tzeentch's familiar pale-skinned and black-suited figure. Instead of his customary amused grin, he now wore a sneer, appearing very displeased. Suddenly, my very soul was able to perceive that I was now seen by uncountable daemons, who were genuinely surprised that I was here.
"I-" I began to speak until Tzeentch growled at me, the noise echoing loudly through my being. It was so loud that it felt as if I was standing directly under a clanging church bell!
"Sneaking into my throne room to spy on me, Erika? Rude! I think you should go home!"
I abruptly woke up to knocking at my bedroom door. My intuition informed me that it was Alberich. "My Leader, more people are here. They say they are from the costume maker," he spoke. "They're here to start setting everything up for Silk-Hand."
"Uh," I gasped, catching my breath, and stunned by what I had seen this time. I pulled my fingers through my hair to find that I had neglected to take my laurels off before sleeping. Hastily pulling myself back to reality, I brightened my Sight, and swept it into the living room before even getting out of bed, curious at who these new people were exactly. Fortunately, it was simply three human women and one man, each carrying supplies and materials for costumes in various boxes and cases.
"Okay," I replied wearily. "Let them in."
Over the next hour, I watched as Silk-Hand's aids moved furniture, set up various mirrors, and laid out a workstation for the tau costumer. I discovered that I had been asleep for a few hours, and that it was already early afternoon. A makeup table was constructed, and a tarp placed in the corner of the living room for Alberich's gold paint job, which he seemed fairly excited for, despite the looming danger. My danger sense was not allowing me to relax, causing me a deep sensation of impending doom. Gathering my wits together, I remembered my premonition.
Something bad was going to happen in this location, and I knew that I had to get everyone and everything out of this penthouse before sundown!
Not wanting to call Talbot up for anything anymore, I announced to the gathered group of assistants that I was going to take a quick call. I shut my bedroom door, and sat on my bed. Closing my eyes, I concentrated on Rezel's energy, searching for him.
At the port, I felt the Librarian pause as he finished a ration packet, his keen senses feeling my eye. Inheritor? he asked me.
Hi Rezel, I greeted him. I had a premonition earlier, and it has me worried. I feel like something bad is going to happen to my hotel after sunset. Can you arrange a shuttle to come and pick up my remaining crewmembers along with some other parcels of clothing and supplies?
I can, Inheritor, Rezel responded quickly. If you have these instincts, you should trust them. Can you give me any specifics on what you saw?
The most I can see is fire and devastation. I just have a really nasty sense that something bad happens here after dark, but not before. Warn your men, just in case. Maybe I'm worrying too much, but I'd rather be safe than sorry.
I felt as if Rezel was now quietly speaking to Magos Amee, who stood beside him. She nodded, and her soul blazed with worry at the information.
Very well. Magos Amee and Null are both here with me. I will instruct them to arrange a pickup. How many more crew are we transporting, and what other cargo are we delivering to your vessel? The Librarian was very helpful.
Just two women. Both are powerful Blank women in gold masks, but their auras are suppressed. Their names are Ennoia and Morai, and they don't quite know Low Gothic, so be patient with them when you see them.
Thy will be done, the Librarian answered in mind. Another pause, and I psychically perceived that Lian had now walked up to the small group chatting in the afternoon shadow of the Divine Retribution. I could feel a short discussion, and then, Rezel added, Lian has volunteered to take a shuttle to the hotel, and to aid in the relocation of your two crewmembers and remaining supplies.
Thanks, Rezel. And tell Lian I said thank you, but I guess I'll thank him when I see him, I said to the friendly Fallen Librarian.
I walked back out into the living room and informed the two witnesses in their language that I was moving them back to the ship, and the reason why. Both women appeared very concerned, but ultimately did not argue with my decision. In preparation, I and my crewmembers set to work organizing all our clothes and goodies from yesterday together for delivery back to the Divine Retribution. Afterward, I sat with a cup of recaf near near the balcony, enjoying the sunshine as the costumers continued to set everything up.
I thought back to my most recent vision, and wondered what it could mean. The man with the long white hair was annoyingly familiar, but I could not quite place him. Being like this was absolutely exhausting, I thought. I was experiencing constant visions, anxiety, and temper problems. Poor Sebastian. I again wondered what he had done exactly on Molech, but from what Cypher had told me, it appeared the lost Traveler had either gained tremendous power, or he had found a very good reason to stay in this universe. Sebastian himself had been very evasive when I had asked him about Molech, so he hadn't helped. That world was still a massive blind spot to me, and I wished that I had been more of a super nerd back home so I could take more advantage of my meta knowledge here.
After a short room service lunch that I shared with Alberich, the two witnesses, and Silk-Hand's employees, Silk-Hand himself arrived in a flourish, and began overseeing his makeshift fashion studio. At the same time, Lian also arrived. I noticed that he was still carrying his sword on his back.
"So, what's the story with your new sword, Lian? Why are you carrying it openly? I thought you needed a permit for that," I observed as the Fallen walked into our penthouse.
Lian dropped his grey shroud, and grinned shortly. Getting a better look at him in the light, I was pleased to see that he was healing up nicely from his injuries on Nubua. Now that I could clearly see his face, it appeared that his brothers had properly stitched his scalp wound, and also, given him a haircut and a good shave. He was looking much better.
The new Paladin reached behind and gripped the pommel of his sword lightly.
"This is Durendal, and I have a permit to carry it. It is a holy sword of The Great Brotherhood of Light. While not an anathema blade by itself, it has seen victory over Chaos countless times. The honored Brothers of Evna saw fit to outfit me with a new blade fit for my station as your Honor Guard. You will be pleased to know that I have been refitted for new power armor as well. It has been taken to the Divine Retribution, and has now been loaded onto the ship."
"New cloak too?" Alberich asked, observing his grey shroud as he walked beside me. Behind Lian, I could now tell that Silk-Hand was waiting to speak to me.
"These grey cloaks are public attire for the Great Brotherhood of Light. Our white shrouds are for all other engagements," Lian briefly gripped the hem of his thick grey cloak.
"So, you're here to take our packages and the two witnesses back to the ship. Has Rezel told you why?"
Lian nodded once, his expression severe. "I do not agree with the planetary governor's policy of not being able to accompany you to the ball as your guard."
"It's a party, so I guess it makes sense," I replied with a shrug. I could now see that Silk-Hand stood behind Lian, and was still waiting for me to finish speaking with him. "Okay, I have to start getting ready here. Anyway, Lian, this is Silk-Hand, the costumer, and these are his assistants."
The Fallen Paladin turned around only to come face to face with a xenos in a very fancy pinstriped suit. I saw Lian's jaw tense in barely concealed disdain, which Silk-Hand either did not notice or did not care to notice. "How do you do?" the costumer bowed before Lian. "You are her guard, I hear? Very big and strong! Shame she didn't pick you as her escort to the masquerade ball. I could have done a lot with you!"
"I take offense to that!" Alberich joked, not really offended.
"To explain, I am an artist, and an artist enjoys many mediums. Clothing a human-esque Space Marine individual is a treat for me. It is rare that I get to work on a costume for one such as you. It is an unfortunate crime that the only Space Marine I know with an invitation to the masquerade ball is making his own costume, which is a terrible pity. No offense, sir Lian, but your fingers are far too large for stitching and delicate craftsmanship."
"Who is the other?" Lian curiously asked as he walked past the alien without making eye contact to where boxes of folded clothes stood ready for transportation. Ennoia and Morai followed the Fallen, and stood, waiting for instructions.
"Oh, he's a local feature of the community. If you're familiar with Evna, you've certainly heard of Word Bear and his shop of mystical wonders. He sells curious artifacts and interesting books!"
"Word Bear is going to the costume ball too?" I replied with surprise. On top of this, I also saw Alberich's head feathers ruffle as he was also taken aback. Oh man, this party was going to be insane. Whatever costume a Chaos Marine could come up with would at least be interesting, I had to admit.
"I'm really not supposed to be revealing this, but yes, Word Bear will be in attendance. Just know that when you see his costume, whatever it is, that I didn't make it, even though I offered. And you just didn't hear any of this from me, my lady," Silk-Hand replied sassily.
After saying goodbye to Lian, Morai, and Ennoia, I began to feel more secure. My premonition told me that there there would be danger at night, so as long as no one was here this evening (and I could get a ride back to my vessel after the party), everything was fine. I definitely did not want to actually go to this crazy party, but the prospect of the Sinclairs possibly arming the planetary mines along with the impassioned pleas for help against a Chaos cult won out. I now considered the party a "job" that I had to do now, so I braced myself.
Silk-Hand introduced me to his stylist. Her name was Ava, a stylish older human woman with snowy short blonde hair and a smiling disposition. Before I could get dressed, I was instructed to take a shower, and to wash my hair using certain products she had supplied. After my wash, I changed into a shiny gold tight bodysuit and a robe before I was led to a new cushioned chair facing a mirror. Holding my laurels in my hand, my hair was trimmed, blow dried and placed in curlers. That was probably all unnecessary, considering the cosmetic effect on appearance that the laurels seemed to have, but I wasn't about to argue with anyone here.
In the corner of the room, Alberich had been stripped to a pair of tight briefs after he had bathed, and he was now being painted with some kind of conditioning lotion over his white velvet skin as he stood with his arms out. The beastman's head feathers had received a trim, and even his beak was now being shaped and cleaned. He chatted with the two women tasked with this, who seemed very interested in his accent. He replied that he came from somewhere called "The Third Reich" and began to essentially describe Nazi Germany as a utopia.
Why couldn't I get a pilot that wasn't some random Nazi, I internally grumbled as I was also instructed to stand. My areas of exposed skin were softened with some kind of lotion that contained gold dust, so I'd be extra sparkly. That was also unnecessary, I thought. My Corona makes me glow even without this sort of treatment.
Finally, my costume was brought out in pieces, and I faced the mirror as everything was brought out. They had me remove my robe, and I placed it on a nearby chair atop my laurels. First, they fastened and adjusted a firm gold bustier around my waist and rib cage. A corset surrounded my waist, and the two assistants began to tighten it until I complained. Beautiful pieces of shiny gold armor embellished with flying eagles and detailed feathers were fixed to each of my limbs, each fastening nearly seamlessly to other pieces. Two glittering spaulders that resembled stylized wings covered my shoulders, and a thick red cloak trimmed with what appeared to be ermine fell behind me to my calves. Gold bracers were wrapped around my forearms, and my legs were similarly armored. Gold boots were brought out and fastened to me with a few clicks.
After everything was fastened on, I took a moment to admire how beautiful this (admittedly ornamental) suit of armor appeared on my body before a full length mirror. I hadn't even put my laurels on yet, I thought, feeling myself get excited. My Key was clearly meant to be exposed around my chest, so I left it out. Silk-Hand observed me as I turned, noting with approval that he was proud of his work. As I bent my arms and legs, I noted that while everything I wore looked solidly metal, my armor was actually exceedingly light, and did not hamper my movement much. Its fit was perfect, as if it were custom crafted to my body, which it was.
I was asked to hold out my hand, and an assistant approached me with a big grin. She was holding something behind her back, and kneeled before me. "My glorious Empress..." she said to me, her head bowed.
"What?" I asked, starting to feel uncomfortable.
She produced a long gold sword! "Oh wow!" I said, taking it in my right hand. It was, of course, a fake sword, but it looked very cool. "Does it have fire like the real one?" I asked with excitement.
"We couldn't get the heating element to work without searing the lightweight metal, but-"
With a psychic nudge, I willed the blade to ignite in illusory light. Fake white flames now licked along its edge.
"Well, that works too!" the assistant observed with a laugh. "But wait, there's more!" she informed me.
She reached down, and opened a large rectangular box at her feet. Within, she held a bladed claw embellished with fake gems and sculpted from bright shiny gold. As I held my neat fake flaming sword, I watched as the assistant buckled and snapped in my fun new lightning claw on my left hand. It reminded me of a large fancy Freddy Krueger glove, and I flexed my finger knives menacingly. One, two, Empress' coming for you...
"Welcome to prime time, bitch!" I growled out in my best Nightmare on Elm Street dream demon voice, momentarily forgetting that my strong voice could be terrifying, even without my halo fully exposed. The entire room was now silent, and I turned toward them all, and said, "Sorry about that! Bad joke!"
As the people continued to fuss over me, I could now smell a faint propellant scent in the room, and as I was inspecting my incredibly cool costume, I turned to see how Alberich's costume was coming along.
He was now completely covered in bright gold, from head to foot! They had outfitted him with an extremely creative costume that resembled the feathers of a metallic gold eagle that ran down his muscular body in a sleek, plated metal bodysuit. His exposed skin had been painted with gold, and even his beak had been buffed to a patent metallic shine. Right now, one of the assistants was gluing a blue-green gemstone to the center of his forehead, reminiscent of the Divine Retribution's three eyes.
"Woah, you look incredible, Alberich!" I said as the curlers were taken out of my hair, and the stylist began to set up her makeup tray. Silk-Hand stood by, supervising both of us.
"I do, don't I?" he agreed with me with a big smile. "They are going to place contact lenses in my eyes to change my eye color as well! My Leader, I must also say that you look absolutely incredible! I know you find such talk difficult, but you appear positively divine!"
Silk-Hand himself then approached me again, his hand on his chin in a thoughtful expression. "Turn on your halo, please. We need to see how your glow effects your appearance before we do your makeup," he said to me.
I obliged, and allowed my Corona to wreathe around me. Because I wasn't wearing my laurels, it rippled and lashed along my head and shoulders in an irregular manner. I felt the hearts of all those gathered here sing with wonder. "Oh, so, you don't need to give me a crown, by the way," I informed Silk-Hand as the stylist then slowly backed away from me, her eyes widened in awe. She glanced at Silk-Hand nervously, who folded his hands happily as he witnessed my light.
"I have a crown for you. I would suggest that you use what was made for your costume, my lady," the tau informed me as he continued to marvel at my Corona.
"But look," I said, taking my laurel crown out from under my robe, which had been left on a nearby chair. It glowed softly in my hands as I placed it up on my head. It immediately fixed itself to me, and after a brief dizzy sensation, I felt myself relax. Silk-Hand's jaw had dropped when I made eye contact with him, and now, the stylist was prostrating herself on the floor. I could feel that she was embarrassed that she had done this, confused at her own reaction.
"This crown is a psychic amplifier. The Emperor has one of these, but his is probably a lot better than mine, of course. It modulates my specific brand of energy. And, it makes me look really cool!" I announced happily to the room of assistants who were now filled with rapturous emotion. With a breath, I withdrew my light somewhat, and the room relaxed.
Silk-Hand, despite not being human, appeared stunned at this, and had not moved or spoken. The stylist finally stood, and she stepped away to catch her breath as she trembled. My Corona was powerful, and I made a mental note to keep myself in check in public. As I became stronger, I was also brightening, and with more light, came more of a presence that I had to control.
The tau finally exhaled and brought his hand down from his face. "I was about to scold you, to tell you not to interfere with an artist's vision, but alas, I am forced to admit that the artistry of your crown has outdone mine. I bow to whoever created that gold wreath, my lady!"
"You didn't send it either?" I asked, curious. "A mystery person sent me this crown yesterday afternoon. I have no idea who sent it, or why they sent it. You really didn't send this?"
"No, I did not," the tau informed me, his eyes shining in the reflection of my slighter halo. "But, whoever made it and sent it to you has excellent taste. I will need you to keep your laurel crown on your head as we finish your hair and makeup, but, could you kindly subdue your light to a low roar so my dear Ava can do your makeup?"
The stylist reappeared from a bathroom, her face damp and her expression emotional. I withdrew my halo to a very soft glow, and tried to smile in order to diffuse the mood in the room. Everyone was still reeling with mixed feelings of awe and fear, so with a slight reach of Sight, I soothed all the human souls in here, draining their anxiety as if placing a soft balm on their worries. This was probably at least a little unethical, but I supposed I needed a little practice in mental manipulation since I was going to assault the goddamn planetary governor tonight.
As a result, a wave of relief passed through the room, and now, everyone had relaxed. It had worked. A deep part of me felt satisfaction that the humans around me were happy now, and I took a deep breath, contented. The stylist reappeared again, a smile on her face, and she began to apply my makeup as she hummed a mellow tune.
I closed my eyes as I was fussed over, my hair artfully braided and teased around my laurels, and my face prettied up along with my costume. A few mental images of the stylist living with her family in an artistic home in Evna flickered in my mind's eye, and the faces of her beloved small grandchildren made me smile. I caught myself being psychically creepy, and stopped that.
"There! All finished!" Ava announced, and I opened my eyes as I was faced toward a mirror.
Currently, my eyes weren't registering a pupil, and were a very hot, softly luminescent gold. My hair was done perfectly in a slight wave, which spilled over my shoulders like a river of both obsidian and ivory down to my elbow. Two long sections of my hair were braided elaborately behind my laurels, which also softly glowed. My features were smooth, and sharp. They were also symmetrical to the point of instigating a feel of uncanny valley in seeing my own reflection. Again, I wasn't sure if that was the ship transforming me, or maybe this makeup job was just that good.
My Corona was soft and surrounded me in a layer of gentle heat, with gold light licking across my shoulders like a smooth mirage. I looked almost unreal. I had to blink to confirm that what I was seeing in the mirror was actually my own reflection.
"Do you like it?" Ava asked me.
"Yeah," I answered. "It looks great!"
"Stand up, my lady. Let me get a good look at you before I send you on your way to the governor's palace. Oh! I am ever so excited for this! This is my best work yet!"
I stood up, and walked to the full length mirror. It was actually hard to perceive that the person staring back at me was actually me. My armor was shiny and spectacularly golden. Stylized eagles and feathered wings decorated every piece of me, and while it felt a little excessive, I did have to admit that it looked great. Maybe gold and eagles weren't all that bad, I began to wonder as I admired myself. In my left hand, I had my very own bladed talon, and in my right hand, I clutched a long gold sword that danced with soft ghostly flames. My halo made me appear even more majestic.
"You really do look like a God-Empress," Ava replied in a soft voice. "You actually risk making the governor jealous with this look, I daresay!"
"More than upsetting her, I'd say," Alberich remarked, walking to my side. I saw that his eyes were now a bright bluish-green, perfectly matched with the Divine Retribution's windows as seen from outside. Silk-Hand had done an incredible job with our costumes!
You're going to rend the governor's soul, aren't you? the beastman whispered telepathically.
I grinned as I shrugged innocently, and I heard Alberich darkly chuckle. If the governor tried anything, I'd smite her right there and then. She's associated with Chaos, so it would totally be in character, I thought nastily as I basked in my own glow.
We had a little bit of time before our transportation would arrive to the party, so I generously paid and tipped Silk-Hand and his assistants, offering a special bonus to the stylist Ava for having such cute grandkids. After they had packed up and departed my hotel room, I swept my awareness outward, looking for Rezel, curious on how things were going over by the port. The Librarian once again sensed my presence fall over him as he was standing guard on the tarmac with Lian, and replied to me with a telepathic, Yes Inheritor? How may I be of service?
Just checking in with you. I'm assuming the two masked women and the package deliveries were all safely transported?
A brief pause as I could tell that the Librarian was psychically examining the area.
They were. Ennoia and Morai are currently aboard the Divine Retribution eating their evening meal with Null, and I am on watch outside of the vessel with Lian. All possessions have been delivered to your ship, and all is secure. We have one of our brothers standing at watch outside Sinclair Plaza, and Master Foras himself will be watching the governor's palace. I have informed my Brothers of your premonition, and they all keep their eyes open for irregularities.
Thank you, I responded. I'll do the best I can tonight. Hopefully, everything will go well, and soon, steps can be taken to get rid of the cult without this world being investigated by Terra.
Be cautious, Inheritor, Rezel said to me as he took a deep breath. Langwidere is as intelligent as she is beautiful. Rumors of her cunning and manipulation spread far and wide, even through the adepts of the Tower of Reason. We all have full faith in you.
Thank you, Rezel, I replied to the Librarian. I really liked talking with this Fallen, and his psychic voice was very pleasant.
You are most welcome. I look forward to serving under you as Empress eventually, as is your destiny, Inheritor, he replied with a short salute to his heart. Ave Imperatrix, he said finally.
Again, I felt a heady sense of well-being pleasantly simmer inside of me at hearing what I had been called. As time went on, and more people acted with deference and worship toward me, my uncomfortable feelings toward being referred to as a divine creature or an Empress had begun to abate. Maybe I was just tired, I thought, feeling only a little guilty as I poured myself a small cup of recaf. I again admired my exceedingly beautiful costume, and how incredible I looked this evening. It was nice to have good self-esteem once in awhile, right? I couldn't go through life feeling guilty at every little thing, correct? I should relax and just try to have fun this evening, despite the terrible looming danger before me.
Tonight, I decided that I would simply enjoy being the God-Empress of Mankind, allowing myself to feel satisfaction at any bows and exultations in my name. A peculiar sense of pleasant anticipation moved through me at this thought. After all, this was simply a part of playing my character, I thought with an eager smile.