Pizza tower Is fun :)
Chapter 50 Ale and Malice
Lorgar sat in her room trying not to rip out her hair. All of the paperwork she was accumulating was driving her insane.
Slamming her head onto an open book. Lorgar wished someone would just come through those doors. Daydreaming of a dark knight just burst through them and read to hear the most beautiful poetry.
Letting out a dreamy sigh, if only that were reality. She looked at all of the papers that needed to be signed. Lorgar grumbled as she grabbed her head, sulking in her work.
"God, what I wouldn't do for a drink right now!" Lorgar said out loud.
A silence had found its way to Lorgar only to be shaken when a loud thud grew louder towards the door. Lorgar gripped the back of her seat staring at the door. She was about to investigate when the sound of her guards protested outside.
"Wait! Hold On!"
"You can't go in there!"
Lorgar watched unsurprisingly as the door was kicked open. She wasn't expecting that dream to be a reality. Unfortunately, her fantasies were crushed as the smell of obnoxious alcohol hit her nostrils. The animal smile that greeted her. Russ stood before her, dressed in Viking clothing as many beautiful, vibrant fur pelts decorated over her body. While wearing black leather pants and wrapped around her hip is another gray pelt. Yet proudly worn on her right shoulder was a stuffed wolf's head.
Lorgar's right eyebrow started to twitch. Then she noticed the big barrel that Russ carried around with her. She could hear the content inside, it swished and splashed, making Lorgar guess it was some sort of liquid.
"Russ?!" Lorgar grumbled, the amount of dissatisfaction she felt was visible on her face.
"My dear sister, what a pleasure to see you!" She shouted. Lorgar was taken back when Russ dropped the barrel and put her arm over Lorgars shoulder, never did the wolf queen be so cheerful in her presence. Lorgar could see Russ wasn't drunk so why here and act like this?
Russ picked up the barrel and offered it to Lorgar. "Here you are Lorgar, I heard about the handling of your legion, glad you took it by the ball again. So I picked this up for you, it's from my stash."
"Why are you doing this?" Lorgar asked. Russ huffed and crossed her arms.
"What can't I show just a little compassion to my family?" Russ asked sarcastically. Lorgar knew what was in that barrel. It was Fenrisian Ale, fermented and aged for a very long time.
"Why though? You never showed a slight interest in me in the past, but now I'm putting more strict rules upon my legion, and this somehow welcomes you to a drink with me," Lorgar said, irritated by her sibling. Russ pouted and poked her cheek in a joking manner.
"Don't be like that! Besides, we all know you weren't the same person when we left Oppai, you stepped up from being a runt in a pack of wolves, that's something to be celebrated," Russ said as she pulled two cups from behind her and set them on the table. "Besides, you look like you can use a drink."
"I'm sorry, planet Oppai? When did someone name it?" Lorgar asked.
"Oh you know our adorable Issei, had decided to make the first claim, that's what my few sons told me," Russ said with a sly smile. Lorgar couldn't help but laugh and she shook her head.
"Planet boob, at least he'd name it after something he loved," Lorgar gripped her head. "Oh, my silly Issei,"
"It must have been hard, you've put so many of your fellow loyal soldiers in imprisonment, I don't blame you most of them are dicks, Glad you saw it," Russ said.
"If you think I had any regret throwing them in the brig you're very wrong, I felt oddly liberated," Lorgar remembered finding it to be quite the experience.
Russ then popped off the top and scooped out a drink for herself and Lorgar. Setting them on top of some documents, the runoff from the drink made a ring onto the paper. Lorgar grew frustrated but Russ picked up one of the papers reading it.
"Putting yourself in paperwork isn't going to help anyone, so instead of glaring at me, maybe you should think of a different approach," Russ said. Lorgar signed and glanced at the paper not with hateful eyes, something Russ quickly noticed. The Wolf queen could see a drawing sticking out of the Lorgar book, it was a page to mark her spot in the book, but Russ could see what stood out was a drawing of Issei.
"Unless it's not the paperwork, that causes you to be so brooding," Russ said, with a teasing smile. Lorgar tucked the page away and pinched the bridge of her nose. Looking at the cup, she had a face that said, 'Ah, What the hell!"
Taking a sip, she almost had to spit back up. This was a strong drink and she coughed up a bit. Russ laughed at her sister.
"Sorry, something you're not used to, this ale is meant to give you a good time. So how is it going with you and Issei?"
The questions had made Lorgar pause but she took a deep breath. Rolling her shoulders and leaning back in her chair. Letting out a tired sigh.
"I don't desire to talk about it," Lorgar spoke honestly. Russ raised an eyebrow and wanted to know why she wouldn't talk about him. It wasn't that she was embarrassed about her feelings. No, this was something else that Russ glimpsed.
"Oh, you don't want to talk about romance with me do you? You don't wanna talk about romance with me is that it? I'll let you know. I have quite the spectacular stories from the bedroom," Russ said with pride.
"I'm sure you do, it's just I wish to discuss these things with others who are more affiliated in the Harem rather than with outside personnel," Lorgar spoke. Russ chuckled, taking a sip from her ale. The sound of her lightly hardy chuckle told Lorgar that she wasn't mocking her or was offended. It was more out of curiosity.
"I see you, Angron, Sanguinius and I'm going to guess Magnus already spoke to one another. Negotiating a little sisterhood amongst you all. I understand not wanting to share but not even chatter about the subject with others, it's a little selfish," Russ said, taking another sip. Lorgar shrugged her shoulders. Finally having the courage to take another sip of the ale this time being more prepared for the strong fermented taste.
"How come you left Konrad out of that list, you certainly understand she's the most infatuated with him," Lorgar asked.
"Because Konrad isn't one for generosity and I'm guessing you already figured that out as well. The same goes for Fulgrum, Pertuabro, and… me,"
Lorgar paused and put the drink down. Looking at Russ already, knowing the rumors from the space wolves. "Yes, I heard you desire Issei only to bed him."
"Well, I consider it a token of appreciation besides, we already know what he loves and I could offer it," Russ said nonchalantly.
"I and the rest of us would disagree. How dare you only try to offer him the pleasures of the flesh," Lorgar said with a heated tone of voice. Russ paused at Lorgar seeing she was frustrated at her.
"I'm sorry what?" She asked.
"You heard me, Issei isn't some one-night stand. He is more than just lustful. When you go to him, offering just your body is a poor gift. I offer him my heart, soul, and trust. The same he has given to us. He is not some incubus, and if this Ale wasn't so good right now, I would throw this cup at your face," Lorgar said, taking another drink. Russ paused, shaking her head. Reluctantly, she could see from Lorgar's point of view.
"I get it, maybe just trying to satisfy him sexually isn't the answer, but you don't see what I see Lorgar,"
Lorgar was confused, what did Russ even mean?
"You see him as a great person who sacrificed so much for us. I do see those qualities within him, but I also see how alone he is, longing for his home, we offer him companionship. Have we truly given everything we've had to him, even our heart, that's all important, yeah, yet without the physical touch of knowing that he's not alone. Wouldn't that truly tell Issei that he's safe around us?" Russ asked, making Lorgar pause.
"What's the point of having so many partners if you can't truly express yourself through every means? His respect for us is honorable, but I understand the pain of wanting to return home," Russ said, staring out into the distance as if imagining the first time she saw Issei's face. Lorgar nodded and took another drink.
"It's not that we don't want to, but we just want to be careful. He suffered a great ordeal, such an action like that provokes the wrong emotion. Damnnit why did he have to get his heart broken by devils, or if I'm being a little honest, they just seem like Subhumans with more advantages than the average imperial citizen," Lorgar said. Russ laughed and patted Lorgar's shoulder.
"Ai, I get it at the same time, I want to show him my gratitude for helping us out of a lot of horrible situations. Not to mention distracting that horrible monstrosity of a prototype of a sister we have," Russ reflected on that battle and how outclassed she was. They only had one chance to get the jump on her and end her; it took full advantage of four matriarchs and Issei to kill her. Only it didn't feel like the angel was truly gone. Lorgar gripped her cup, remembering just being on the same planet as the Angel. Feeling its raw power made the matriarch feel small. as if such a thing was possible.
"Yes, I haven't personally met her, but I could feel that malice. Such power and hate, I'm surprised Sanguinius was able to take her down from what I heard, even if she did have a god-killing weapon on her side," Lorgar said.
Russ stared at the liquid that cast a reflection on herself. "We were lucky, never thought I would say those words. Years of combat and wars, and I had to let fate decide."
"Now who sounds like the religious one," Lorgar jokes. Russ laughed at the sly remark.
"And here I thought, you weren't in the joking mood." Picking up her glass, Russ offered to toast Lorgar, which she slowly acknowledged.
"To a new beginning!" Russ cheers.
"And ending old ways!" Lorgar said back, hitting her cup against Russ.
Some in the halls of the emperor's flagship had backed themselves up to the wall. Trying to avoid the five iron hands that marched on, not wanting to be run over.
Leading this black ops mission was the first captain of the Iron Hands. Gabriel made it his mission to bring Issei to Ferrus and make him beg for mercy for embarrassing their legion, honor, and matriarch.
Yet the worst of it all was stripping their matriarch of the metal that she carried in her hands. What was a defining trait was now ripped away from her and it was all thanks to Issei.
Following behind him were other well-respected Iron Hands. Gabriel was constantly checking the security alerts around them. Doing their absolute best to not draw attention to themselves. However, it was incredibly hard when there were so many normal crew members on this vessel. Neither did the explosions that they caused didn't help.
Sooner or later they would attract one of the more experienced Warriors. This was a race to find Issei's first. They tried to track him through the surveillance system. Their only clue was that he was heading with Konrad Cruze to the north wing of the ship. Gabriel couldn't even imagine what twisted torture she was inflicting upon that human. Hopefully, when they found him, they would be able to bring back a sane individual to be punished.
Gabriel stopped in his tracks when a certain individual was standing in their path. Valdor stood in their path like an immovable object. The silence that was projected just by Valdors presence alone orders them to cease.
Gabriel let out a sigh and stepped forward. "Move out of the-,"
"An action like this it's completely unforgivable, turn back now, and all of this will be seen as a minor transgression. Any further misconduct shall lead to severe punishment. Gabriel, don't embarrass your legion." Valdor said coldly without any care.
"You think I can walk away, after the disrespectful display, that boy left upon Ferrus!" Gabriel barked. Valdor only took a step forward making his threat even more serious. The other Iron Hands behind Gabriel took a step back. Valdor was a silent death approaching them.
"May I remind you, that killing us would be excessive even for you," Gabriel voiced. Valdor kept walking towards them. The first captain was debating whether or not he should run with his tails between his legs back to their matriarch and shame for their attempt at trying to bring her justice.
The Iron hands that had accompanied him were now keeping their safe distance from the first captain. Valdor finally approached him, dwarfing him in size and looking down upon him.
"I will take no pleasure in this if I have to defend this ship from inner conflict. Do not give me any more reason to lift the butt of this spear from the floor," Valdor advised. Gabriel tries to stare down his adversary only for him to completely fall and buckle.
"Take all of your troops turned back now, and all of this will be forgotten," Valdor ordered.
Gabriel gradually turned away from him and walked back with his fellow soldiers. "We will leave, expect no welcome from the Iron Hands from that thing you protect."
"This is far from over, Valdor!"
Valdor nodded and was going to turn around when on his helmet screen another disturbance had happened. The lower decks, checking the information, notifications of the lower decks.
Smacking the butt of his spear onto the floor making the Iron Hands pause and face Valdor.
"Tell your Space Marines to cease any action in the brig!" Valdor order. Gabriel was confused by what Valdor had asked.
"My lord, this is all of us, no other Iron Hands are on the ship," Gabriel said. Valdor spun around and ran towards the brig, he wasn't there on the scene, surely some of his fellow Custodies would be there.
"Whatever has happened, I will make sure it does not get past me!"
Issei and Konrad walked through the halls. The next stop was Loragr and Russ, Issei didn't mind Lorgar at all in some way, He felt incredibly safe around her and was always welcomed by her presence. She always reminded him of Aisa, the sweet nun girl from his home.
However, Issei did notice the more abrasive side of Lorgar, not that he didn't mind, but the anger in her eye was scary. Lorgar preached humble words but could kill you with one hand.
Russ, on the other hand… Issei couldn't help but recall those past moments they shared, thinking about them again.
"Was she really serious about in all those conversations, I mean, she never teased only takes?" Issei asked himself. Konrad sees Issei being in his usual deep-thought state. She didn't enjoy it when Issei was silent like this. What was so wrong about getting everything off your chest? But Konrad hated the lack of knowledge of what her partner was thinking.
She tapped his shoulder making Issei snap out of his thoughts.
"What is making you sad?" She asked. Issei wanted to say nothing was wrong, but he knew better at this point.
"It's just Russ, comments, and jokes weren't really…" Issei trailed off, unsure to explain this to Konrad without making her mad.
"I know Russ's words always carry action with them. What has she proclaimed of you?" Konrad asked. Issei gulped and nervously waved his hands.
"No, no, no, no, that's nothing like that… Uh actually it is like that, here's the thing I'm not sure if she likes me or just wants to sleep with me."
Konrad, without even hesitating, answered quickly. "She just wants to bed you."
"Is that truth or is that what you want me to hear?" Issei asked.
"Maybe both, but Russ shouldn't just play with your heart, it is something to be held with gentle care. So I think she's unworthy of you and she drinks too much," Konrad said with irritation, remembering those drinking games those space wolves would hold. Just seeing the site made her feel a bit tipsy.
"That's why we're asking, it's gonna take more than that to dissuade me from having a harem," Issei smirked. Konrad smiled at the challenge.
"Oh, that's what you think," Konrad thought.
"I'm not going to lose this; I've got this in the bag. And I forgot you're not here. Where the hell are you?" Issei thought.
The two eventually stumbled across the Word bearers that guarded the door, the space marines were sitting on the shiny floor, even if they wore their helmets, the young man could tell that they were defeated and worked. The door behind them was closed, but they looked to be exhausted.
They could not be blamed, however, when all their simple job to do was to keep people out while their matriarch worked and so far they have proven to fail at that task every time. Issei glanced back at Konrad with a smile.
"Watch a smooth talker get himself in that room," Issei said. Konrad raised an eyebrow feeling that this was going to be entertaining. The young man approached the word bearer. Was about to speak when the space marine shot up from his spot and gave a humble bow.
"Forgive me! For not noticing you earlier, you are Issei, the great defier of fate! Our matriarch gave us specific details to let you in if you ever came upon her chamber! It is a great privilege to meet you!"
Issei paused and turned back to Konrad. The Night Hunter gave a sarcastic, slow clap. "Wow, it's like you didn't even have to say a word."
Issei rolled his eyes to Konrad but nodded at the space marine as the two began to open the door. Issei rolled his shoulders and almost looked like he was getting ready for a marathon. The doors fully opened, and with a fast pace, Issei walked in there but still had a calm pose to himself.
"Lorgar and Russ, it's good to see… and what is going on here?" Issei asked. The site he had stumbled upon made him at a loss for words. The two guards heard his reaction looking inside the room and we're both equally shocked. Konrad smiled knowing already what was happening.
Lorgar with a beat red face was on the floor with a silly smile on her face. While Russ was calmly sitting in her seat, taking another sip of her ale. The Wolf Queen glanced at Issei flashing him a toothy grin.
"She is lightweight!" Russ teased. Lorgar was wobbly, looking up at Issei. She let out a gasp and covered her face.
"OH, don't look at me like this, my little shadow!" Lorgar slurred out. Issei runs towards Lorgar and slowly helps her up. The slightly buzzed matriarch was embarrassed to be seen like this, especially by the one she loved.
Lorgar found herself sitting back in her seat while Russ smiled at her drink. The feeling of her ale had taken its toll, yet with their fast metabolism. It would be too long for them to recover. Issei hopped on top of the table and made sure Lorgar was fine.
Lorgar felt greatly ashamed that Issei had caught her like this, but Issei didn't care he gently placed his hand on top of Lorgars.
"Hey, are you okay, I didn't even think you guys could get drunk," Issei pointed out.
"Most of the time, yes, but the ale that I'm drinking is special, one drop, and you would pass out, followed by the entire shutdown of your liver and bodily functions," Russ said, her finger dancing across the liquid surface. Issei looked at the cup, taking a smell and immediately gagging.
"Oh my god! That smell is strong!" Issei coughed.
"Well I would offer it to you, but I'd rather you stay sober for the meeting," Russ jokes. Issei nodded and took a step back.
"And maybe not in an emergency room too." He looked at Lorgar seeing she was embarrassed. Looking down on the floor.
"Hey Lorgar it's cool, I don't mind if you drink or not."
Lorgar shyly glanced up, even looking at that kind smile made Lorgar blush. That smile could bring light to the darkest of places. "What are you doing here?"
Issei sat down on the table, putting one of his legs over the other, and wanted to get straight to the point.
"The reason why I am here is that I wanted to ask why you love me, I just wanna make sure it was because of the right reasons and that I didn't take advantage of you," Issei asked. Russ and Lorgar's eyes grew wide with shock.
"Issei why would you ask that, do you have doubts in my conviction of the love I have for you!" Lorgar asked in a heavy panic. Issei quickly held her right hand, wanting to reassure her that none of this was her fault.
"No, no, no, it's not that, I don't have any doubt in you. It's just to know why you fell in love with me. Because I love you, you've done so much for me and been there for my lowest moment." Issei said, comforting her and putting away any misconceptions.
"I want to know if you want to be in this harem, I just felt like I took advantage of you," Issei said with an honest voice. Lorgar looked to be in disbelief.
"He thinks he took advantage of us…" Lorgar thought. Russ was just surprised, Issei was the one who was an emotional mess. From the stories from Rogal. This was completely strange, why did he think he was at fault?
"Issei no, we were all acting to our own desire. The first time I heard about you all I just wanted to do was study you. I had no intentions in the first place to fall for your charms. However, the moment when you told me the truth about these higher deities. You showed me a path I didn't think was possible. You are a rebel of fate." The words that Lorgar said carried the truth to them. Issei smiled but he still had to ask.
"But if anyone else did the same, that showed you the truth before me, would you fall in love with them?" He asked. Lorgar truly looked at Issei and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Instead of asking yourself whether or not your events happened. Maybe you should cherish the fortunes that had been brought up upon you. Issei, my love for you is true. You've changed my world, and I know that I have affected you as well. It doesn't matter that you did it. What matters is that you showed me and answered my inquiries, never forgot we have each other, and that we built a bond. You've never hurt me and betrayed my trust. So, I will continue to do the same. My Issei, my Hope, and My twilight night," In a swift motion, Lorgar took Issei's hand and brought it to her lips. Gently kissing the back of it. Issei couldn't help but blush. Usually, the situation would be in reverse, but being treated like this did make him feel a bit fluttered.
It was like he was the princess being spoiled. Lorgar smirked at Issei; she thought it was funny to pride herself on being a holier than now individual. Now Lorgar was a simple person who desired simple things. Breaking down the real questions that played humanity's mind when in truth, the answer was just always in front of you. You just have to stop and look at it.
"Now, does my twilight night have any other doubts that need to be extinguished," Lorgar smoothly said.
"Oh gosh why am I blushing, I was ready to pounce on Fulgrim and now I'm acting like a shy schoolgirl, damn she's good!" Issei thought. Russ could not acknowledge the competition she was dealing with. That was good. However, she still was the wolf queen with some unquestionable animal magnetism.
"Issei~," Russ called out. He turned around to see Russ elbows on the table, holding up her head. She was intentionally showing off her cleavage that sat on the table. "What about me, I'm lonely over here."
Issei gawked in shock and arousal. Lorgar huffed in annoyance. Grabbing Issei and putting him into a tight hug. "I'm sorry Russ but unfortunately you're not with the sisterhood yet so you're going to have to wait and even then you're still at the bottom of the pecking order of this Harem, so please do yourself a favor and bark up another tree."
Russ was taken aback by the insult, nearly spitting out her drink. Keyword Nearly, there was no way that the wolf queen would ever waste a single drop.
"Damn, that's a good one!" Russ said. Lorgar continues to smother Issei but has a proud expression.
"Nothing but learning from the best," Lorgar jokes. Issei tried to speak but Lorgar didn't seem to pay attention. Instead of panicking, he shrugged his shoulders and accepted his fate, and boy what way to go.
"If you're done smothering my beloved! Then let him go so he can breathe!" Konrad said frustratedly. Waking into the room furious at Lorgar. The matriarch looked down and realized her blunder. Quickly pulling Issei away and sitting them on the table.
"My deepest apologies Issei! Are you alright? Perhaps punishing me will make you feel better!" She asked. Issei was hunched over trying to catch his breath.
"I'm good, all good. Almost died because of breasts OK! Just give me a moment!" Issei sounded like a wild Moose rather than a person trying to catch his breath. Russ for some odd reason, couldn't help but be excited by the noise. A wolf did love the chase.
"It's about time you dragged yourself out of the shadows, so why are you letting your man hang with other women since you're so keen on not sharing?" Russ asked. Konrad smirked and leaned back on the wall.
"Because I respect my beloved wish, Issei's first date shall be with me," Konrad said confidently. Russ flashed a grin.
"Is that so?"
Russ glanced at Issei and put on her smile. "Say Issei why don't I, repay all your hard work and help with some one-on-one time I know you could use the company."
"No," Issei answers quickly. Russ is taken aback by the sudden answer while Konrad smirks at her.
"Sorry, Russ, but I'm not going to just throw myself out there. And if you do wanna get that close to me, I should suggest we go on a date first and not just go crazy on the first one. We need to go on a couple of dates before even thinking about hitting it off. Konrad, I know, and she knows me. So, I'm gonna have to politely decline. Not to mention, I think I've had my fill of sexual attempts from Fulgrim,"
Russ gawked at how Issei turned down this opportunity. She was the wolf queen; anything she desired or wanted would certainly be hers.
Why was Russ being outplayed right now? Konrad couldn't help but have a confident smirk. This victory had gone to her.
"So nothing until the dates, fine I'll go on one of your dates after Konrad of course," Russ said. Either way, she would not let her gift be declined. Issei having an awkward expression and scratching the back of his head didn't see it going that way.
"Well~ After Konrad I would then try to take Angron, on the next date, Lorgar, Fulgrim of course being next," Issei pointed out which made Lorgar blush.
"Oh, how thoughtful of you," Lorgar gushed.
"Alright then me, I understand…" Russ could see that Issei had some uncertainty in his face. "I'm next, right? Issei, why aren't you saying anything?"
Lorgar couldn't help but giggle behind her hand. "My this is awkward."
"After Lorgar is Mangus then Sanguinius-"
"Magnus! She gets one before me! You two barely talk!" Russ said in shock.
"Yeah, but she does like to talk to me telepathically. Sometimes she would enter my dreams," The comment made Lorgar and Konrad put stern glares at him.
"And what would she do in your dreams?" Konrad asked calmly even though her face showed anger.
"And people say I have a dirty mind, believe it or not, Que is very protective of me, especially with the mental stuff. Doesn't want me to have another episode," Issei answers. Lorgar was happy with that answer. Even Konrad felt at ease that the god of darkness was protecting him.
"I can't believe this is happening so when is my turn? I mean I just wish to hang out with you," Russ asked innocently while the other two could see right through her façade.
"Hey, if you just want to hang out then, anytime would be great but seeing as we do have a meeting coming up and my other stuff it won't be for a while," Issei said. Russ nodded it seemed this was the only best option left. Issei would be courted by the Wolf Queen because she doesn't tease, she takes.
"Fine, then I'll humbly wait."
Issei nodded, feeling relieved that Russ understood. Konrad still had a proud smile that said I got one over you.
Lorgar did have one burning question. After all these declarations of finding your fate and defying higher powers. She needs to ask about a certain individual.
"Issei, do you mind if I speak to Que right now?" Lorgar asked. Issei had a very disappointed look.
"What's the matter?" Russ asked, she truly felt that the shadow powers were safe, but only in Issei's hands. Que was another story entirely. Why did she have to trust this God? Was it even a God or possibly something worse? Masquerading as a good god.
"He's been M.I.A. for a while now, I think he's off doing stuff. I'm not sure when I'll be back. I don't even know where he goes?" Issei asked out loud. Lorgar raised an eyebrow in interest.
"But you are still able to use powers?" She asked.
"Yeah, no trouble whatsoever,"
The three matriarchs glanced at each other, thinking that maybe this was a good thing.
"Guys, I'm happy you're concerned about me, but Que's a cool guy, and I'm not really under any kind of mind control or anything he kinda gives me power for free," Issei explained.
"And why that?" Russ asked. Issei awkwardly scratches the back of his head, knowing the answer, but feeling it would be a bit embarrassing to tell out loud. However, he did swallow that pride.
"He kind of sees me like his son, believe it or not. I've been trying to ask him lately to send me back home, but you know he's not here right now," Issei said, lowering his head saddened by the reminder.
"It's alright, Issei; we understand you want to go back home. Hopefully, soon, you'll be able to make that possible," Lorgar said.
"Yeah me too," Issei sadly mumbled but what was left to accomplish? Clapping his hands and rubbing them. He glanced at the two.
"Thank Lorgar and Russ for the time, but I have to talk to everybody about the Harem. So thank you, I'll see you guys at the meeting," Issei said, getting off the table and walking to the door. Lorgar smiled watching Issei leave with an awestruck stare. Russ in the meantime contemplated that she was really at the bottom of this relationship business.
"What is happening right now? I can't give up, I swear I shall give you the best night of sex in your life. You are a partner I desire and needs romantic aid!" Russ thought, watching Issei leave, at the same time, she could see Konrad glancing at her. With a winning smile.
"Better luck next time, by the way, any misbehaving wolves should probably go to the doghouse."
Russ was angry, but she did not show it. She then had a forced grin on her face. This little game was on. This wasn't about love but competition, and by the emperor, Russ would win it. Issei shocked his head at them that there was no way to get past these sibling rivalries. It was an issue he had to accept because he wondered if the matriarch would ever stop fighting, would they ever realize that the true enemy of this game of love was him. Issei would be the one to claim their hearts.
Issei was caught off guard when he could see a sister of silence standing in the doorway along with another man. It was a tech priest and quite a big one. The machinery that jolted out of the man's body was clunky and tattered his mechanical arms, helping him support his ridiculous weight. His entire body was almost covered in a red cloak.
"LEMAN Russ, Lorgar, Konrad Cruse, and Issei Hyoudo. By the order of Malcador the Sigillite, you are to report to the grand war chamber, the meaning of the matrix return is now beginning, all attendance is mandatory," The tech priest spoke through his strange robotic voice. Issei understood and felt this was the perfect opportunity to discuss personal business. Yet he couldn't quite get over the appearance of these tech-priests.
"Yeah, thanks, dude," Issei said awkwardly.
"Affirmative," The Tech priest nodded. "If you FOLLOW me, I shall escort you!"
Lorgar gave a tired sigh and looked at the barrel of ale. She scooped out the liquid, finishing the drink in one gulp.
"Uh, this is going to be a rough meeting," Lorgar grumbled. Russ took the large barrel in one hand. The combination of a stressful meeting coming up, and suddenly realizing that she was quite literally at the bottom of the totem pole. She started to chug all of the context inside. Not a single drop was wasted as she dropped the barrel to show nothing left.
"Aye, I swear the last time we ever had one of these I'm pretty sure someone was sent through the wall!" Russ said. Lorgar nodded and gripped her head.
"And that person was me," Lorgar said. Konrad dreads this meeting as well, even though she wants answers. Malcador was a vault and not to be trifled with, especially after the incident with Horus. Issei glanced at all of them with a surprised look.
"Guys come on, we've all spent at least a good chunk of time together on the planet, what makes this any different?" Issei asked.
"Malcador!" Lorgar and Konrad answered simultaneously. Russ had no ill will against Malcador seeing him more like an uncle.
"It's completely different, my love. Malcador isn't a man to be trifled with and I will ask you to be on your best behavior, if gain his favor then the emperor should be more gracious to you," Konrad said. Issei was quiet and nodded. He followed the tech priest.
"Oh, Que I could really need your guidance right about now." Issei thought.
Valdor had marched throughout the halls, heading for the lower brig. He was passing many humans. Some of the ship's workers were forbidden from entering the brig.
The fast pace he took showed how urgent this was. Posting outside the door were two other Custodies. Vladror approaches the door, and as Valdor approaches they step out of the way.
Valdor glanced at them. "Brother Callisto, What is the situation?"
"The camera didn't capture anything; it went out the moment Erebus freed himself from his chains, then the sister of silence that was posted out here had to investigate the disturbance at the iron hands, they had left post to investigate. Then, when they came back, this mess had transpired."
Valdor studied the door, seeing it was undamaged from the inside and the outside, which only meant that the prisoner didn't come through the doors.
"There is also another issue here my Lord there are signs of contamination. None of the lower deck members were exposed to it. However, we do understand that Erebus was a worship of such things." They spoke quietly not wanting to have eager ears listen to their chaos was meant to never be heard by any immortal. The imperium citizens did not need to know about it.
Valdor nodded and ventured in, out of all of this to happen on this ship a chaos worshiper was the last thing he wanted. Moving inside he could see that the Golden Jail was rusted, the floor stained with puddles of blood. The bits of flesh and bone scattered across the walls. A couple of Tech-Priests studied the crime scene. Valdor glanced at them and raised his hand, gaining their attention.
"leave the room."
All of them followed his order immediately and swiftly left. Leaving only Valdor alone. Studying the area but what he picked up on, there was a giant hole in one cell, and where the massacre was the most noticeable.
Valdor approached the cage seeing the bent bars, the next step he took, he could feel the intense malice in the air. He slowly brought out his Apollonian spear and stabbed the floor, then in a moment. Gruesome images flashed within his mind, wincing them like he was already there in the first place.
Valdor pulled the spear out and glanced at a pile of flesh. It was blocking the air duct, he moved it with his spear and looked behind it.
A massive hole was there and the answer to where Erebus had gone. What worried him most was if what he saw was true, then they were dealing with a renegade God. Malice had found a champion. A person to do his bedding.
"He's in the walls," Valdor said to himself.
A question asked right now would be how a Shadow interacts with pestilence and disease. The answer was incredibly simple: it doesn't. Que watched from afar.
He glanced at the great tree that chained the beautiful goddess. Isha hanged with no hope, but the eye of her grandfather Nurgle. Had been placed into other problems.
With the fires that had spread throughout the realm preoccupied the plague god. Making him handle other matters. However Que…. He Who Made Dark wanted to just reach in and take her away. Unfortunately, there wasn't time for that, and he still needed the right moment to strike.
He let out a sigh.
Soon… that's all he needed to do, was wait for the right time.
Isha is still chained by the rotting bark. She could feel something watching her. She glanced over to the horizon, only to see nothing. There was no disappointment, only suffering but glancing back at the floor she could see another black lotus blooming in front of her.
A small smile appeared on her face. This was the second time a black Lotus appeared again. She wondered who was doing this. Why? However, she was thankful for the gift. It did keep her mind off a little from the surroundings.
Que gripped his faceless face and disappeared into the darkness. He traversed the dusk shadows. So many issues on his plate right now, the threat of chaos gods, the undying anger of the Nevermore, and trying to help a teenager traverse the battlefield of love.
He was god, not a miracle worker. Still, he was yearning to return to his avatar. Que stopped in the middle of the void. He gripped the space and ripped up a hole. To the untrained eye and lower intelligence being one would think that he ripped a hole in the fabric of the universe. He did, but it was more of finding the right door.
The behemoth that he was slipped through the tiny hole. On the other side of this fabric, was the familiar field of flowers that he enjoyed.
"Home sweet home," Que said out loud. "I wonder what the little guy is up to?"
Issei followed the Tech priest, he swore going anywhere in this ship it felt like a marathon. How big was this ship?
Konrad glanced down and could see Issei was annoyed.
"Issei, do you want me to carry you again?" Konrad jokes.
"No, besides I can walk on my own. Besides, I know how you get a little handy," Issei said jokingly. Konrad smiled at the comeback. Russ and Lorgar both glanced at Konrad. Seeing she was gaining more attention from Issei. Being that they had a date, a ping of jealousy ran through the both of them.
"Damn, Konrad has Issei around her fingers! And they have a date coming up, Konrad when'd you become so cool!"Lorgar thought. Russ rolled her eyes, seeing how lovey-dovey the two were acting. Russ just couldn't believe she was at the bottom of this totem pole. Granted, all she wanted to do was just sleep with Issei, but to see that she wasn't even a priority for Issei was mind-boggling. She was Leman Russ, the matriarch of the Space Wolves. A wild beauty of combat, the Valkyrie of death. Any high lord would desire her and would've thrown out their entire family just to have a moment with her. Yet Issei is so calm and caring. To make sure Konrad and the others would have good dates made him more attractive.
The more Russ understood how hard this would be the more she wanted Issei. Perhaps it is the idea of the challenge, but she did want to live up to her words and that's something that Issei could truly understand. Even after everything that happend with the Angel, her eyes couldn't help but set on him.
Russ smirked seductively looking at Issei. "So kind yet no one to touch, what sad warrior. Perhaps I could show you a better time,"
Konrad walked in front of Russ blocking her view. The Wolf Queen was a little stunted seeing Konrad look over her shoulder, looking right at her with a disapproving look. Russ smirked and kept walking on like nothing happened. "Just because there is a goalie doesn't mean you can't score," Russ thought.
Konrad turned back to Issei, noticing he was being quiet. The young man couldn't blame himself and I've been a while since he had some alone time in his mind with himself.
"Okay, we're having a meeting, but I will talk about this harem stuff after. Hopefully, Angron doesn't rip me apart, Or she tempts me with a bunny suit. Issei, you have to lock in on your original goal. No Surrender!" Issei thought. He began to feel nervous. Worrying about what the worst could be. "I mean, what's the worst that can happen? Unless The Lion is going to freak out seeing me again, or maybe this Malcador will hate me and my relationship with matriarchs? OH NO, WHAT IF I EXPLODE!"
"Uh, is it a bad time right now?" Que asked. Issei stopped and wanted to shout his friend's name but he didn't wanna look crazy or draw attention to himself.
"Que! Yes, where the hell have you been!" Issei mentally yelled.
"Sorry I just had to talk to someone, you remember our old clown friend, well I had to speak with their god."
Issei had a puzzled look. "So you mean this entire time you've been traveling the afterlife? To meet… what was his name Cegorach, right?" Issei asked.
"Yes, and well the reason he sent one of his followers to capture you was to speak with me. What he had to say was not good news," Que answers with a worried tone. Issei thought it was odd he had never heard Que's tone reach that manner of scared.
"How can you know if he's telling the truth? He's the god of humor, right? What if he's lying to you?"
"That's the thing, Cegorach only likes to tell the truth. The universe is comedic in a way and he is a gesture, an individual that's supposed to make fun of it. A parody is still a version of the truth. I'm sorry to add more to keep you up at night, but we're dealing with another great threat besides chaos. Nevermore currently exists in this universe. I never truly explained what they are but right now I need to get you out of this world. So keep your chin up, partner. The next stop is going home!" Que said.
Issei expressed his shock. Was he really going home? But it felt too sudden and not the right time.
"Why are we leaving? shouldn't you be able to take it on?" Issei asked.
"No, My days of fighting those things are over, but that doesn't mean I can't train for you to do so. However, if we're gonna do that, I'm gonna take you back to a safer dimension. Then we can get you up to god-killing speed unless there's a problem?" Que asked, detecting a hint of sadness.
"Yeah Que, I have a couple of problems. I wanna get my affairs in order! Like I don't know MY GIRLFRIENDS AND NOT ABANDONING THEM!" Issei yelled.
"Issei come on, you need to think about-"
"So what, you can't fight them now, is some part of your big plan, that you won't explain to me, until the end!" Issei shouted.
"It's not that just listen to-,"
"Why! Can't you just do it, you're the all-powerful god! So why do I have to suffer again and leave people, that I love!"
"BECAUSE I CAN'T!"
Issei paused for that was the first Que had ever shouted at him, not a shout of anger but of one of desperation. "What? But you said you could make anything? Why not just make a sword to kill this nevermore and be done with it,"
"That's not how it works... you can't kill a nevermore. You have to make it exist to truly defeat it. The thing is... my brother and I, we made everything. The laws of the universe were our doing, but I can't think of anything else to make. It's all been made, Issei I don't know what to make,"
The two were dead quiet as Issei was speechless. "Then what now? Just leave them behind!"
"I'm not saying we have to leave right now, but just prepare to say goodbye in the future… I'm sorry but we have to leave, the longer we're in this place the more you put yourself and them in danger. I know you think I'm talking out of my ass right now. Trust me I have fought these things for eternities. They are relentless killing machines that will stop at nothing until nothing is left! If you love and want to keep them safe you have to leave them… look I can see that you're stressed. Just keep calm alright, I'll leave you to yourself now,"
Issei shook his head, going home but leaving the matriarchs.
"Issei, are you speaking with Que?" Konrad asked. Issei paused and gulped looking at her.
"How did you know?" Issei asked.
"Your expressions kept telling me that you were talking to someone, and from what I saw, it wasn't a joyful conversation," Konrad said, pointing out the details that were right in front of her.
Lorgar paused and glanced at Issei. "Que, he's here? Where are you, Issei, I have a couple of questions about that shadow! If that coward can just show up when he wants!"
Issei could see how protective Lorgar was acting, maybe he should have kept this on the down low. "I'm fine Lorgar, It's just he spooked me is all."
Konrad and Russ didn't believe that after all, they had a sense of Issei, after everything Issei went through. It seemed out of place for him.
Before they could talk further, the three of them had stopped seeing two large doors ahead. Issei knows this place because he has already dropped in. The same room he teleported the others to.
Slowly opened and standing in the middle of these giant doors was Malcador. His cold glance was staring at the young man. He slowly walked out the door and walked towards the three. Konrad and Lorgar reluctantly moved if Russ wasn't here they wouldn't move at all for the old man.
Issei watched as this old man stared at him. Even though they had met before this time it was different. He could feel the power in front of him. It was as if a storm was staring at him, this wasn't a man but a natural disaster. The shadows whispered for him to move but Issei wouldn't test this man.
Malcador could see the awe and fear in the young man's eyes. "Issei, we meet again, please take a seat we have much to discuss. And let's see if you're worth of the hands you seek,"
Notes: Hey guys, nice to see you, talk about a long while since I posted anything. Sorry about that. I just had to get some business settled. Thank you for the reviews. Shout out to Poseidon-The-Tyrant, SinX5, Skull Flame, Masterchiefcommandershepard, and nope. Thank you for the reviews, also, thank you, my readers. I hope you are all having an amazing day. So next time, I don't know when the next chapter will be I'm working on the new reaction story right now, and so other fics, but hey, it's nice to round it up. Anyway, if have any reviews I would love to hear them and I can't wait to see yeah, next chapter dubbed Meet the Macldaor.