Chapter 48 Love and Library Cards?
Que is a primordial darkness and a key factor in the plane of existence. He travels through dimensions and sneaks through four different hells. This hellish travel that got him here was so…
EASY!
To him, the warp was still a young thing. Traversing this realm wasn't even that difficult. The shadows here were another back road entirely that the chaos neglected. Yet he stood in front of the golden gate of the craft world, belonging to a sadistic, laughing God.
The black library.
Que, even in his faceless form, groaned as he rubbed his head. His hand reached for the gates only for a mass of quilted fabrics of various colors to shoot from the cracks. Some were in different shapes, and each pattern of square feet was different from the last. The sound of bells that jangled a deafening chaotic tune. Then, appearing on the top of this mass was a mask with a long nose and sharp knife-like chin. On top of its head was a jester's crown.
"I'm sorry to ask this from a friend, but do you have a library card? AHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The laughter echoes through the void.
Que was unimpressed with the display. He was one to show boats but go big or go home.
"Hello, Cegorach. It's awful to meet you as ever."
Cegorach sadly tipped his head and zoomed around Que until they were face-to-face. Well, faceless darkness meeting a masked clown.
"Why are you so dull, He Who Made Dark? The last time I remember seeing you was beyond the reach of creation when you battled the Nevermore. In comparison, we lesser gods fight against the Star Eaters and the immortal armies of living metal. You and your brother decided the fate of existence. It's quite humorous when you put it all into your perspective, right?"
"You see, I'm always surprised that you were able to notice us. You are powerful but adept, that's something your pantheon of arrogance never showed. Even old ones never picked up on us." The Darkness began to move around the two, almost making a pathway for them to walk.
"You know us, so ignorant of the future that when it hits us, we are taken back by surprise. I never mind being ahead. Besides, it keeps the audience on their toes. Even my enemies don't even know. My next step is what brought my attention to you back then during the war in heaven. Yet why do you insist upon coming here, perhaps to research the goddess you couldn't help but not look away from?"
"Ignorance to reality is what makes humor. Don't ignore it, or else reality shall come crashing down upon you," Que huffed an irritated sigh.
"You never enjoyed my joke," Cegorach said sadly. Que let out a sigh. He was the abyss. He's heard every deprived and sadistic joke there was and yet to be, but he did have his brand of humor that he found hilarious.
"I prefer slapstick." This made Cegorach cringe at the mere mention of the word.
"Still boring, aren't we?" Cegorach asked. Que began to grow his mass, gathering even more and dwarfing Cegorach.
"It's called enjoying the classics, but don't play coy with me, why was one of your followers trying to take my avatar?" He asked, even if his tone was threatening to rip the fabric of reality around them. Cegorach grew as well, this time not even trying to be taller but meeting eye-to-eye with the other god.
"How else was I supposed to gain your attention? It's not like you have an address," Cegorach laughed. Que huffed in agreement.
"I see, so either your champion, the Harlequin, was to bring Issei here to gain my attention, strange, you eldar gods never were for simplicity,"
"You never minded Isha, the way she created and made things. The way you admired her from afar. At the same time, we fight against those star-eaters. You and your brother were lifting the heavyweights. Stopping things worse than Chaos. Am I right?"
Que, instead of responding, decided to answer the question with another.
"Why did you want to see me?" He asked.
"Well, aren't you here to see me?" Cegorach asked back. The silence between them grew, but Que broke it first.
"A Nevermore is coming back, Something that I don't understand. We handled them a long time ago. Now, all of a sudden, one is coming back out of the blue. It doesn't make sense," Que said.
"You see, while you talk about the stars, I wanted to talk about the ground you stand on. Are you aware of what happened to the Old ones and the remnants of the Eldar Empire?" He asked. The patience of a primordial being could run very quickly if agitated the right way.
"I don't care about a race that was doomed because of its arrogance and pride."
Cegorach only stared at Que, waiting for the right answer to be said. The shadow god finally gave in to it and spoke.
"Yes, I know what happened. What does this have to do with me, wait a second. Do you need my help, is this why you dragged me out here?" Que asked. Cegorach tilted his head.
"Why yes, but did you remember the first time we met?" The voices around Que began to murmur amongst each other.
"Yes, I do. You came to me after the war in heaven. You asked who I was, and I answered my name. We talked for a little bit, but I had to leave, my work of creation wasn't even over." Que's words echoed with a soft, amber tone. Cegorach nodded and floated in the air aimlessly like he was floating in a lazy river.
"But what was the joke I told you, I'm sure being as powerful as you wouldn't forget anything," Cegorach pointed out.
"I remember that day; I remember every single day. You said this: What kills without remorse? What cries but has eyes, what takes but gains nothing back. Why does it kill gods? A creature from the howling abyss and shambling thing of old. He is the revenge of our fallen past. He is the idea of the ancient in a world which discards and fetishes it."
The Joke was repeated, and Que's hands gripped so tight that atoms were being split, causing tiny explosions in his hand. "To think one such as him would be so bold to make a move."
"Do you mean the…"
Que held his finger to his featureless face, Hushing Cegorach. "Don't dare say his name here. The chaos gods would be tempted by him, and the idea of all of them working together sounds despicable."
"Fear not, for terrifying as they are together. It is almost impossible for them to cooperate. I find that so funny, you know. They could easily destroy their enemy if they'd all put aside their differences and destroyed everything. But if they did that, they wouldn't be the same chaos gods from before. It's a grand Greek convoluted game they play."
"It's only complicated if you make it so. Take the guardian knot. A human concept of a not so complex to unravel it would take decades, but just slicing it and free at all would be so simple. Simplicity kills complexity; simple solutions kill complex situations. But so you dragged me here to warn me and…"
"And lend a helping hand to you and your avatar. My performers in troops are all willing to aid you whenever the time arises. The only thing I ask is that you look out for the library for a short time."
"Not going to tell what little business you're trying to take care of?" Que asked.
"Now Que, you know I never explain a joke. That's what kills humor." His voice echoed as he began to disappear and unravel leaving nothing behind.
"A king of old has decided to make his move." The words Que said only made him furious. He needed to return to his accolade as soon as possible. Words need to be conversed with an emperor of mankind. A warning for an unavoidable war to come.
~BAZINGA~!
That word echoes through the void.
"I hate this place so much!" Que yelled.
Issei stood outside the door of the Night Hunter. He was feeling nervous. He was starting to pace outside Sister Integra, and Valdor watched Issei.
"Why are you nervous? Are you going to say words that might be hurtful to her?" Valdor asked.
"No, it's not that!" Issei called out.
"Then what?" The question that Valdor asked made Issei put his head to the door.
"If I try to suggest slowing down our awesome relationship. Konrads going to use her power of seduction on me, I'll be too weak for her hot goth love!" Issei cried out, making Integra's eye twitch.
"Really? You can't just ignore it like a normal person?" Valdor asked.
"How can I call myself a man if I can't!" Issei said proudly. Valdor glanced at sister Integra. She spoke in sign language. "He's a bit strange and way too infatuated with them,"
"All young men are like that," Valdor said, but Issei didn't care about the side conversation.
Valdor walked to Issei and stood firm behind him. Snapping Issei out of his anxious pace. "The Emperor's daughters were made to be beautiful even the harsh conditions of their home world did not blemish who they are."
"It's not just the looks. They give off intense auras; they used to be exhausting to be in the same room as them. However, now I can't get enough of them. I want to bask more in their presence. I love being near them. Yet rushing with our affection that magic might fade."
"I see no problem here if you both enjoy each other's company and find each other's affection to be good, why even deal with such silly ordeals?" Valdor asked. Issei crossed his arms and was befuddled that Valdor didn't understand.
"Don't you get, you can't just go ahead into paradise, even though it's so tempting? You have to find the wonders of a first date. Going on countless activities with each other, finding the wrongs and the rights with your partner. Might be young, but even I know I'm going too fast with them, so I can't go willingly in this relationship anymore in good faith, knowing that they're missing out on the best parts. That's how love works! The journey to the heart is what makes it special. They have done so much for me. They need to see the beauty of dates and hanging out." Those words were beautiful, and they made two people cry.
Issei turned around to see the door slightly opened. Glancing at him was Konrad. Issei gulped but was graciously relieved to see her.
"Issei," Konrad called out gently.
"Uh, hey, Konrad!" Issei calls out awkwardly. He was going to say something, but the sound of a second person sniffling drew his attention down the hall. Trying to keep herself together was Fulgrim out of her armor and in a slim purple toga.
"Oh, what lovely words you say. By the throne, I just want you all to myself," Fulgrim sang with red rosy cheeks.
Valdor and Integra hopped out of the way as Fulgrim went for a full sprint. Issei was going to try to escape, but Fulgrim was already upon him. He was welcomed by a hellish hug but comforted by two bags of heaven. Issei was smothered by Fulgrim's well-endowed chest. Felt the top of his head being nuzzled by her cheeks.
Issei didn't hate this one bit, but he needed to get to Konrad.
"Oh, thank you, Fulgrim, but could you please let me go? I have to get to Konrad," Issei murmured, trying to fight back against the pure seduction of Fulgrim, but it was almost impossible.
"Hush, Issei, please understand, we don't mind whatever you do. As long as you are true to us, we will be true to you. Besides, you don't have to go to the trouble of formalities and dates with me. I've had past husbands and wives. However, if you truly have your heart set on it, I enjoy a nice night of drinking and painting. That's what I want." Issei made a mental note of Fulgrim's answer, but he found himself being ripped away by a cold metal hand.
Konrad scorn glared at Fulgrim. Valdor was getting prepared for a possible brawl. Fulgrim glanced at her calmly and smirked.
"If we're being honest with each other, Issei. I deeply love you for your actions. I can dream now, and I can look to a better future now. I've been holding my tongue for far too long. I've been far too lenient. I know your dream is to have a harem, but I don't want any more partners. I have made a deal with Angron and Lorgar. I now draw the line with the others." Konrad said, looking at Fulgrim with a stern face. "I want you all to myself, call me greedy, fine, but I desire more time with you."
"That option isn't available anymore, my dear sister," Fulgrim said.
"The only person he should be with is me," Konrad said, making Issei gulp at the possible bawl that was going to happen. Konrad's lighting claws popped out and pointed at Fulgrim, who wasn't even phased at all. The smile on her face was that of pridefulness before she could say a word, Valdor stepped in.
"May I remind you two that any physical altercations on this ship will be punished by confinement in your rooms," Valdor warned. That did little to break the tension, but Fulgrim shrugged off the words. Looking back at Konrad and strutting without fear. She placed the tip of her finger on Konrad's lighting claws. Leaning down close to Konrad's face.
"If you think I'm the only one who wants Issei, you're dead wrong. Sanguinius has already made moves, and how do you plan to stop her?" The question didn't make Konrad even hesitate to think. These orders were ironclad. Issei could feel that intense aura of the Night Hunter surrounding him more protectively.
"Yes, I do. Even you sister, who has done so much, you'll have to prick him from my fingers," Konrad said.
"Hmph, Issei doesn't mind, do you, Issei?" Fulgrim asked, glancing at him with doe eyes
Issei was about to say yes when he received a death glare from Konrad. Looking back at Fulgrim, Issei sees the yearning in her eyes. Those beautiful amethyst gems wanted only him.
"Konrad, you know I can't say no," Issei said sadly. Konrad shook her head.
"You dare take advantage of his nature, Fulgrim. If he wants to show me the beauty of the simple connection that I lack, then I wish to experience him alone for a certain time!" Konrad spoke sternly.
"Do you think that option is left for you? We both know Russ will take her fill. The Khan is always interested in trying new things, and Perturabo has become more friendly, especially to him and Horus. Our dear beloved Horus has a great debt to pay to him, and we know what Issei likes. Omegon, well, we just found out about her, but I think you know where this is going." The innuendos had made Issei blush at the idea while Konrad was furious.
"Let them try, but I will be there to stop them!" Konrad said.
"Then you do realize this means war," Fulgrim said proudly. Konrad smiled and cracked her neck.
"It appears so. We were on that planet for so long that we had to put aside our petty squabbles now that we're here, we finally have a united argument. He is mine," Konrad was unafraid of what Fulgrim would say and knew that the time for argument was over. It was time for action.
"Then let this harem war begin then, may the side be chosen for who shall be the first bride is the real question to be asked," Fulgrim said.
"Then let the battlefield run red, for I shall not fall back," Konrad barked.
"Hmph, you cannot even begin to comprehend what tactics of romance dwell within my mind. So easily I will make him come to my side and treat him like a king!" Fulgrim bolstered her resolve. They stared down at each other as the battlefield of competition was beginning. Valdor didn't know if they should be confused or weary of the future. He did know that those rivalries between sisters weren't gone but now fueling a new passion. Something he wasn't sure was possible.
"Can I have a say in this?" Issei asked. Both of them turn to face him.
"No,"
Issei nodded but was yanked away into Konrad's room as the door was closed. Valdor didn't want to be baffled, but this was strange, these were noble battle-hardened warriors and generals he almost forgot that they were women. They yearned for connection; he wondered if the Emperor truly wanted daughters in the first place at this point. Then again, sons were known to be more ambitious than daughters, or was the gap closer than he thought?
"We should check on him, Konrad isn't one to be gentle, especially to those she finds guilty," Integra said.
"No, I would say he's in the most secure place of the ship, being guarded by the most diligent of us matriarchs," Fulgrim said.
Valdor turned Fulgrim, staring at her. Why wasn't she mad? In fact, she looked to be happy for Konrad.
"Didn't you just insult and challenge her?" Valdor pointed out.
"Yes, but that doesn't mean I don't want her to be happy. It's a competition, but we all know some have to lose," Fulgrim said. "But that boy has a ravenous heart that seeks love! Which makes me think, who's really winning?" Having seen and heard about a monologue of breasts.
"Yes, he does, and I wouldn't have him any other way," Fulgrim said.
"Are you sure they're not brainwashed?" Integra said.
Issei felt his back hit the soft black mattress below. Setting up, Issei could see he was in a large bed with a black bed sheet.
Konrad walked to the other end of the room. Grabbed a chair and sat across from Issei. She had a nervous look on her face and was avoiding eye contact. Issei wanted to speak out but noticed the way Konrad fiddled with her fingers. Issei thought maybe it was time to listen to her.
"Konrad, how are you feeling?" Issei asked. The silence in the room was impeccable. It was like the Night Hunter didn't want to speak. The red blush of embarrassment on her face made her realize that she did quite act like a fool before bringing Issei into her chambers.
"I missed you... I'm glad you're safe. I would have seen you sooner, but I had to attend to my legions. I had to explain the wrongs and rights of justice. Hasn't been too easy. I can see some of my wayward sons and daughters are not accepting my new rule. In truth, I am having trouble,"
Issei listened and wished he could offer some wisdom that would help her with her problems, but political affairs and enforcing new rules for soldiers weren't his things.
"Have you talked to the others for help? I'm sure Lorgar and Sanguinius might help… if you want them?" Issei quickly corrected himself. Not wanting to offend her ego or honor. Konrad let out a humorous sniffle.
"I appreciate the concern, but this is something I must handle, I'm guessing my first commander had a word with you?" Konrad said. Issei was stumped by the words and awkwardly didn't know what to say next. You didn't wanna get the first captain of the night Lord's in trouble, but at the same time, she was right. Konrad saw the worry on his face.
"It's okay. I know sometimes my future vision can be handy. I may not have been aware of the full conversation, but I did see that you two would meet eventually I wasn't sure if it would be before or after the meeting," Konrad said. Issei let out a worried breath of air.
"Thank you, man I didn't wanna get that guy in trouble, to be fair. He was kind of intense, but I saw he was coming from a place of love." The quick giggle that Konrad made Issei smile.
"Yes, Savitar is the most just out of any of my legionaries," Konrad said.
"Still, is wearing human skin as clothing?" Issei said.
"I said he was just not a perfect role model," Konrad teased. The two laughed, but after that, they sat in a comfortable silence.
"So, what's bothering you about the new rules?" Issei asked. Konrad looked away but gave in.
"The harsh punishment and terror that I spread across multiple worlds. I don't know how I can change myself and my legions with just a couple of words. I know I must lead by example, but I feel like I'm fooling myself by acting more lenient with punishment for the guilty. I-
"It's hard, but remember when you helped me, do you remember how good it felt?" Issei asked. Cutting off Konrad, who simply nodded.
"Yes, I do remember it was good, and it made me happy to liberate you." That was the truth, but she was assured it was more out of love rather than rightful causes.
"Then imagine other people like me, suffering a need on a night to guide them out of the worst. You might not feel it at first, but I know deep inside. That's the Night Hunter isn't just for killing but helping people," Issei said humbly. Konrad nodded and took those words to heart.
"Yes, I agree. I can only try my best, though," Konrad noticed a soft hand reach for her glove. Issei takes a small moment to think.
"Hey, so I never really know what your legion does, like when I met Rogal and Pertuabo. They came across as people who mastered siegecraft and building. What do the Night Hunters do?" Issei asked but could see Konrad didn't look to answer the question.
"The Night Lords specialize in terror tactics. What we do is we use fear as a weapon. It's what keeps our numbers strong, and we have the least amount of casualties when we invade worlds. However, we do this by assassinating officials, setting off bombs in capital buildings, and terrorizing citizens. We break their will before the first shot of a bolt gun can be fired." Remembering some of the atrocities that she had committed from her orders. "One action that I now regret was how I made one planet comply. I had suffered the heads of most of their officials and leading generals, and we started more with the soldiers. Then, when our ships entered the atmosphere, we dropped severed heads over the city and its people. It was successful, but now I see that I truly am overstepping in my terrorism.
Konrad turned to see Issei's face in utter shock. It was a little tougher pill to swallow. Issei was a bit more prepared for news like that. Going into the mind of a matriarch did desensitize him a little. War always brings out the worst in people, but the Night Lords did actions like this on purpose.
"I see the news. It is a bit disorienting. I apologize for what I did, but there is no excuse. The only thing I can say is to do better." Konrad explained.
"Yeah, no, this is a little hard to overlook. I'm not gonna say anything unless you don't want me to say something." Issei said. Konrad fumbled over her words.
"I didn't want to upset you, but that is the truth. I will try to do better, but if I fall, I don't know-
"If you fall, I'll be there to catch you," Issei said. Konrad flet a large amount of joy as she looked at him.
"I deeply appreciate the words that you have said, but these are not the ones you wanted to exchange with me. I believe you came here to speak about our relationship."
Issei nodded, this was the tricky part he thought deeply about what he wanted to speak about. Yet, he couldn't help but think that some of that was spoiled when Konrad was peeking out of her door.
"Yeah, so I think we're going a little fast. I don't think we need to take a break or stop seeing each other, but maybe we can dial it back on the more intimate moments. I mean, I haven't even taken you on a date."
Konrad felt herself laughing and holding her sides. The reaction made Issei pause, not knowing what to say.
"Oh, sorry, but here you are, standing in front of a person who originally just had to toss our clothes aside and pounce on you, but instead, you choose to guide me through this love we share. It makes me more happy to know that," Konrad then had an awkward expression, remembering her certain rushing of a kiss. "I mean, I was the person who kissed you first I might've taken advantage of you."
Issei looked down, and a smirk appeared on his face. "I didn't hate it. It was quite breathtaking."
"Yes, I remember. You were quite speechless. But what you said is the truth about slowing down, so I'm not going to be giving away my kisses for free," Konrad said.
"Are you sure about that because I came here to ask you something?" Issei said, insinuating that Konrad wanted to learn more.
"What is it you have planned? Tell me, Issei, what can you say to surprise me?" Konrad asked teasingly, even though she already used her powers to know the answer. Issei is lazily lying back on the bed.
"Konrad, do you want to go on a date after the meeting?" Issei asked. Konrad scratched her chin in a joking manner. Issei sat up to see a suppressed smirk on Konrad's face.
"Hmmm, I have to see I have a very busy schedule… you got me! Of course, I want to go on a date with you. It will be my first, so please show me the ropes, would you." standing up from her chair, Konrad lay in the bed next to Issei. They stared into each other eyes, blushing. They both wanted to kiss the other, but both shyly turned away, they would have another time to do that special moment.
"I'm glad then, I'll meet you in your room after the meeting," Issei said, looking away with a blush on his face.
"Yes, I wouldn't mind at all going on this so-called date," Konrad said, blushing as well. As happy as this moment was, if this was talking about the relationship, then she needed to say something. With a heavy sigh, knowing that she had to speak of this matter. She sat up, making the bed move along with Issei.
"Issei, about what I said earlier. This Harem dream. I know it's your passion, but I don't like to share, I don't want to hurt you, but I can't pretend to not like this." The words said made Issei's heart shake. Konrad glanced down at him, the sadness in her site could have made Khorne daemon cry.
"I don't want you to leave me while the others just take you. It drives me up the walls, knowing that Sanguinius desires you or the idea of Russ trying to calm you. Angron and Lorgar, I respect them, but at the same time, I wish they wouldn't touch you. Call me greedy, but I don't want to share with you!" Konrad said, trying not to break out into a harsh tone. "Your heart is foolish, but I don't want it to leave me."
"I'll never leave your side or the others," Issei said with a stern face. Konrad fastly turned her head towards him, standing up from the bed and finally raising her tone.
"And how do you know that!" Konrad yelled. Showing some rage. Issei didn't flinch, as stated, with a profound face. Even if Issei had tried this technique recently, it is worth a shot. It was time to man up. Standing up on the bed, he took a deep breath.
"Grow."
Issei's body began to grow and gain mass, his body taller and muscle structure the same but only bigger. He felt his body reach the size of that of ten feet. Konrad slowly backed away as Issei got off the bed and approached her.
Konrad was stunned, never had she anticipated this, it was completely shocking, but why did Issei do this? Was he mad at her? Was this a form of intimidation? She found her back hitting the table as Issei approached her.
Those doubts were quickly snuffed out when a soft hand cupped her cheek. The same one she felt when Issei begged her to stay at the camp the first time she left him alone.
Gradually looking at Issei, she put her hand over his. The loving smile on his face, combined with a very shock that someone of the opposite sex was her size and was holding her, made her heart beat in a way that she never knew was possible. Feeling that she was just a normal person for a small moment.
"Konrad…" The voice that called her name was smooth like velvet. Staring into the light brown eyes that glanced back at her.
"I would move the universe for you and your sister, even if you are light years away, I would be able to get to you in seconds, I will never betray you or anyone in the harem." Issei declared. Konrad wanted to believe that, she desperately wanted to believe those words.
"And how do I know you won't leave me or hurt me? Does that go for the rest of them, too?"
"Then I ask you to kill me because if I turn into a man who dares break a woman's heart. Then that means that person has died, and you're going to have to kill that monster," Issei said. Konrad was taken aback by the words and smacked Issei in the face. Feeling his clothes being grabbed by Konrad, he was met with a heated face.
"Don't you dare say such a thing! I never want to hurt you because I Love you!" Konrad said.
"Then what do you-"
"The others want your heart. I might despise it, and I will continue to fight until I am the only one that you desire, but if that doesn't happen, then I must come to terms with the fact that I do have to share. Issei, my love. You never owe us your life, but our debt to you is still unpaid. I do not like the idea of a harem, but if it comes to fruition, then that is the future. Never change who you are because that is the man who I fell in love with," Konrad's words made Issei gulp with admiration. Konrad took off her armored gauntlet. Then, gently rub the spot where she smacked him.
"Sorry, it's just you sort of surprised me," Konrad said with an embarrassed blush.
"Thank you, Konrad, then I tell you my selfish desires. I want all of you because I have a very greedy heart." Issei said. Konrad nodded and placed her hand over his chest.
"You don't have a greedy heart. It cannot bear to see others in pain. That's is a heart of a lover."
The two sat in silence. Yet Issei was the first to break it. "Eh, I guess that means you don't like me changing size then?"
"I never said that. I'm kind of excited you can be this size, however," Konrad slowly approached his ear so she could whisper into it. "I don't mind dominating you in your smaller form."
Issei blushed but felt himself decrease in size, returning to what he was. Konrad looked down at him with a smile.
"So will the Night Hunter see you all to herself, or will she fall to the Harem King? Let's see who wins that race," Konrad said. Issei smiled and began to head for the door.
"Konrad, when I play the game, there are no losers." Issei turned around, waving goodbye. "Can't wait for our dinner."
The Night Hunger felt her heart rise faster. Thinking about the moment when Issei had cornered her. It was only something she would see in her fantasies, but seeing it in real life made her excited. Now, knowing the game was on an equal level for everybody. She smiled at her chance of victory, even though the others had some more appealing aspects to their characters. She had one major advantage over any of them. She was the first, and that meant Konrad was playing the Issei game longer than them. Issei glanced back at Konrad.
"Hey, I'll be more diligent about who I give my heart out to," Issei said.
"I know you'll try, but if you fail now, I'll be there to scare them off," Konrad said. Issei warmly smiled at her and then closed the door. Konrad walked over to her deck and slammed her hands on top of the desk as she was quickly panicking, not knowing what to do.
"Shit, me and my big words I don't even know the first thing to do for a date!"
Issei let out a sigh as he was outside. He quietly chuckled, thinking that it went better than he expected. He felt someone tap his back.
"I know, Valdor; I guess you want me to go back to my room. Don't you?" Issei said, Turning around only to see that Valdor was on the other side of the hall. Integra was staring at something behind him. Fulgrim had a befuddled look.
"I'm not touching you, Issei," Valdor said. Issei spun around to see a small child in a green cloak. He couldn't see the individual's face. It was like it was obstructed by shadow.
Issei glanced down, feeling a shudder of familiarity.
"Hey, little guy, what are you doing here? Are you lost?" Issei asked. The small child raised his arms and showed his little hands, wanting to be picked up.
"Oh, I don't really…" Issei watched as the small child innocently turned its head.
"Alright, fine, come here," Issei held out his arms, the small child leaping into his arms. He glanced at Fulgrim, who had a confused face.
"Man, I knew the ship was pretty big. I just didn't think you guys had a daycare here?" Issei jokes. Fulgrim didn't know how to break the news to him, but Valdor wasn't one for manners. Recognizing the Xeno in Issei's arms. They were the servants to the dark angels, but only to them.
Not else was known about them, they didn't even know what they looked like under that green rag. Fulgrim didn't like being near them. None of the other matriarchs also liked these servants of Artoria.
"We don't have any daycares on this ship, and that is not a child that is a Xeno," Valdor said, walking up to Issei, not to protect him but to glare at the watcher of the dark. Preparing to strike it down if it made any movements.
Issei quickly turned to face the creature, staring into its black void, realizing there was no face to begin with. No wonder it felt so familiar to him. It was that of the darkness he would surround himself with. He couldn't feel malice or hatred coming from the small creature.
Instead, it was calm. The Watcher of Dark slowly bows his head to Issei. He could feel a strange feeling in his head. It was like the soft hum of a radio.
"Avatar of the darkness. We are glad to see that our Lord has returned. In his absence, we are trying to find a new champion. However, you are his hand to deal with fate. So in our failure, we offer the Queen of Caliban to be your loyal wife, Seeing you desire powerful women," The watcher said in a deep voice. A voice that could only be heard in Issei's head.
Issei looked up in pure confusion as he heard the words that felt more awkward, knowing Que wasn't here to help with the message. "This thing knows Que?"
"I'm just going to put you down, man," Issei said.
"What, no, please, I must serve you!"
Issei didn't listen and set the small alien down slowly, backing away. The Watcher tried to follow. Only for Valdor to block its path. They stared at each other, Valdor tightened the grip on his spear. Issei felt as if a fight between two very powerful individuals would happen. The raw, emotionless intent that he could feel was knee-buckling.
"Go back to your master. Any more insurrection will lead to a swift execution. Do you understand me?" Valdor commanded. The watcher silently glared back but swiftly walked away, knowing that that was a fight he wouldn't be able to win. Issei watched the small alien walk away, but he did wonder who was the queen of Caliban.
He shook off the thought and continued on his mission. "So next stop, Angron?"
"Hmph, I say we will hold off from that and wait until the meeting happens," Valdor said, approaching Issei. The teen felt his dangerous sense go off before he could even react. Valdor grabbed him by the shoulder and felt a small needle stab him.
Valdor was fast. Faster than anything he had met.
"Aw, what the hell~" Issei felt dazed and was about to hit the floor, only for the back of his shirt to be grabbed by Valdor. Fulgrim, witnessing this, was outraged, She was going to smack Valdor. How dare he touch Issei.
"I wouldn't make a move," Valdor said. "A group of iron hands is approaching this hallway right now, take him back to his room and make sure he goes back to his room until we gather for the meeting. We shall take every precaution to avoid any unnecessary action,"
"What do you think I'm just going to take any order from you!" Fulgrim heated tone of voice.
"I know your pride makes you unable to take orders, but I also don't doubt your intelligence tells you that the facts are that if those Iron hands see Issei. They would tear him apart." She couldn't argue with that; she didn't want Ferrus legion to be in trouble. Begrudgingly, she gently took Issei into her arms. Strutting back to Issei's room.
However, when she walked around the corner, she took the wrong way, specifically walking to her room with a mischievous smile on her face.
Sister Integra darted at Valdor with an uncertain expression in her eyes.
"Didn't the iron hands leave onto the second flagship an hour ago, there's not a single one here,"
"That's true, but Fulgrim doesn't know, besides confusing where his whereabouts to the crew is for his safety as well. Even if this is the emperor's flagship, we are still in enemy territory."
Erebus slumped from his chain. His head lowered, and the simple human guards that watched over them had keen eyes on them.
The only thing missing in this cold brig was silence. Because Kor Phaeron wouldn't stop baffling about his failure. They had given up any hope of a fair trial. They knew that this was their doom.
"Oh, look at us now! Our legion looks down upon us. What are we to do, the faith we worshiped now abandoned us. That wretched whore Lorgar, how could she betray us. I curse this rotten imperium!" Kor Phaeron cired. Erebus silently ignored the graveling of this man. Listing for his next orders.
He couldn't tell which dear he spoke to him, but he felt the immense power that dwelled within his soul.
This was no greater demon but a greater power. He was informed about the one responsible for him being in this cage. The cheater had to be punished. The great game had been desecrated.
Erebus hadn't received any more words since then he assumed the speakers were being very cautious when informing in such a high-security brig. What gained his attention were the two sisters of silence, who patrolled the area.
Anytime they passed by Erebus, he would feel disgusted and nauseous being near them. He wanted to gouge his eyes, just even looking at them.
However, it appeared they weren't around. Reaching deep with himself, praying to the powers to speak to him.
"Answer my lords how do you wish for your will to be answered,"
The silence filled him with a sense of dread, but it was pushed away.
"Erebus, many plans have been changed, and string fates burned away. Issei is the one who did this. So punishment must be put in place for this act of aggression,"
Erebus glanced up at the ceiling, hatred in his eyes, not the usual of pride. This was unbridled rage and malice. In this clarity of red, he realized the chaos deity did not match any of the ones that were described in the heretical text. This didn't make his blood boil like Khorne, his ears and eyes weren't bulging with festering maggots or incurable diseases. So it wasn't Nurgle. The words that were said were very direct and didn't have a small undertone of deceit. Something that the Lord of change would never resist. This lacked even the basics of simple pleasures of defying the order, the pure ecstasy that would be from Slaanesh.
It felt like the exact opposite of joy and pleasure but not the rage of a warrior. The only emotion that could be described from it was… Malice.
"You are trapped within this cage, but you are not defenseless in it other than the necessary materials to craft a blade. Your hands are blessed with hatred. With it, you must stab the great cheater. Then his punishment may begin,"
Lorgar glanced at the chains on his wrist, this metal was strong, but how could it be made into a blade?
"The blade you need is not made out of steel. It will be made from a heretic,"
Erebus started at Kor Phaeron, who was still moping around in his self-despair. The man's pride had been shattered, set in a blaze, and then thrown down a very deep, dark hole.
"We failed, why did this happen please, Gods let me out, guards I back in you to release me. I am innocent. Please help!" Kor Phaeron turned around to see Erebus staring at him.
"What, come to at least gloat that I have no control of the Legion, well cease your mockery, You're in the same spot I am." Erebus didn't care for the comment and felt a small smile appear on his face.
"I wouldn't be so careless to believe that there's no hope out in fact, I know of a plan, we just have to wait."
Kor Phaeron scoffed at the comment and didn't even bother answering it, looking away, there was nothing left for him he would be mocked and imprisoned Erebus had to wait until the guards were distracted, right now, he would slowly twist and turn his wrists in the shackles that had him. He would be free and would serve this chaos that answered his call.
"Save your time and be patient. You don't want to temper the material?"
"Of course, my master," Erebus said out loud. Kor Phaeron turned around, looking at him.
"Who are you talking to?" He asked. Erebus glanced down silently, not even answering the question.
Issei felt tired and restless. He swore that getting knocked out like this was starting to mess with his sleep cycle.
Opening his eyes, he was in a fancy white room. There were marble columns. A golden smooth floor, the vines that grew in the room. Twisted and turned around the white tables and furnished floors. He was lying on a large white furnished sofa.
Looking up, he could see a giant easel stand. Behind it was Fulgrim painting away. The matriarch was enthralled in her work. Her eyes darted to Issei and had a joyous expression. Her short hairstyle was styled a bit the ends were trimmed, but she wore a golden crown made into leaves, similar to the ones that the Romans would wear.
"I see you awake, good now, hold still I just need to finish the hair highlights. So just stay still for a moment,"
Issei paused and moved an inch, but Fulgrim pointed at him, her eyes not taking off the white canvas. Issei could see how her hand moved so fast yet with purpose, as each stroke was a crucial part of the art. The matriarch stopped looking at her art, setting the brush down. She turned her head to face Issei.
"It's perfect. Here, take a look," Fulgrim said, turning the easel to face Issei.
"Fulgrim, why did you paint, wow. That looks good." The painting Issei was shown was a simple portrait. The picture depicted him as a warrior wearing commissar clothing. His face was painted stoically. In comparison, the background was royal red curtains.
"Forgive me; I could not just simply take you back to your quarters. I made an educated assumption that you would be safer here. Valdor means well, but it is very gracious to knock you out with a very powerful sedative. The other way, he was going to headbutt you."
Issei rubbed his head, trying to reminisce over the last event. "Man, that guy is fast. What legion does he belong to?"
"He's not a part of any space marine Legion. He's a Custode. Their gene-seed is from the emperor himself. They are the mightiest of warriors with no flaws and perfect reaction speed. Simply put, they are the Emperor's bodyguards. Their lives are fortified by the guarantee of physical perfection. Their loyalty is absolute. They are the best of the best," Fulgrim said in a lax tone.
"Wait, wouldn't that make them your brothers?" Issei asked. Fulgrim thought of the question.
"Yes, we are related by Gene seed alone, but not by blood. However, they are handcrafted by the emperor himself. Valdor was the first to be made," Fulgrim answers but becomes worried when she sees Issei having doubts in his eyes.
"Issei, is something the matter?" She asked.
"He got me before I could react, man, I'm going to have to step up my game to keep up with the Custode." Thinking about it before he could utter a word, Valdor had taken that brief time as an advantage to strike.
"You mean to catch up to Valdor," Fulgrim simply said. "The other Custodes are impressive, but you're far beyond them. Valdor was the first Custode to be made. He has years of experience. I've heard some tales that he duels with Dorn and won. He's faster, stronger, and smarter than the others. He is the emperor's other right hand. That's not even including his armor, which is updated with new advanced technology. His spear is an impressive weapon that can only be wheeled by him."
"Yeah, I did notice how he was always carrying it around with him. He never let it rest on his shoulder or set it down. It was always strongly gripped in his hand." Issei said. Thinking about it now, Valdor's responses always seemed cold and lacked emotion. "What's so dangerous about his spear?"
"Valdor wields the Apollonian Spear. It was made by the emperor of mankind himself. The legend says any enemy slain by the spear will allow the user to know everything about their slain victim. Valdor has been alive for a long time, and it's been in many wars. He carries more battle tactics and wisdom than most Tech-priests. He is a one-man army." The Legends made Issei pause with awe. Issei felt a little shameful thinking I've given so much crap to Valdor.
"Kinda I feel like a dick for treating him with no respect," Issei said.
"It's fine, truly. You could've been the most snobbish prideful noble to cross the galaxy, and he wouldn't even give a damn. What makes Valdor a powerful warrior is that he is not wild and brash but quiet and wise. Knowing exactly the perfect time to strike. Besides, I doubt he feels anything. Warriors like him are not designed to feel fear," Fulgirm said. Issei nodded at the words. Still, he glanced around the room and patted his knees. It was a bizarre feeling going through them, knowing that a girl was taking him to her room while he was unconscious.
"So, you didn't do anything to me while I was out, did you?" Issei asked awkwardly. Fulgrim laughed and sat by Issei.
"No, of course not." She suddenly scoots closer to Issei. Making Issei's face beat red. "Unless you wanted something to happen."
Issei shot up from his seat and began to stretch randomly. "Wow, look at the ceiling. Don't mind me. I'm just gonna do some stretches right here."
Fulgrim gently glided over to him and politely tapped her shoulder. Making him turn around, seeing her lowered herself to meet his eye to eye.
"Issei, can we talk? Do you consider me a part of your Harem?" She asked. Issei nodded, seeing where this was going, and at this point, you needed to cross that bridge. Fulgrim was on the path to making sure that his harem partners wanted to be a part of it. Even with the talk with Konrad, it still was a race. It's just that he wanted to speak to Angron after Konrad and then Lorgar, followed by Sanguinius. Even Russ was there but wasn't sure where to fit her.
"Alright, let's talk about it then," Issei said.
Notes: Hey guys, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, It So touching on a few things about the harem. Fleshing it out more is the goal so that the romance doesn't feel rushed. Que's whereabouts are now made, seeing he had to the library. Clowns, am I right? Hehehehe, Don't hurt me. Anyway, I just want to let you know that I'm pushing away chaos as the main villain, I just wanted to introduce a new force of evil that I did hint at a long time ago. So, the next Chapter will be with Angron and Fulgrim. Also working on the reaction chapter. Hey you guys might see some more Omake soon so thank you for reading and I hope you have a good day.