(Chapter 32: The Assault on Cygnax Secundus: Part 1)
It would be the midst of June as after Ben had not only spent the next two weeks; not only recapturing the Forge World of Pratherion Prime, but also 2 other Forge Worlds with frightening efficiency by himself. Would he soon set course for the world of Cygnax Secundus to help the Iron Warriors against the Drukhari Incursion, and potentially flush out one of the Archons that was heading the incursion as a blow to the Dark Eldar.
(June 19th, 951. M30, Cygnax Secundus, 1:45 Pm, Hive Basteradon)
It would be a quarter till 2 in the afternoon as Warsmith Harkor was looking almost flabbergasted at Tennyson's inane idea to win them an entire Hive City to use as the start of their fortifications and primary stronghold.
"While Commander Forrix may believe in the insanity of your plans. I however, remain skeptical that in one fell swoop, that you cannot only capture an entire Hive City. One that is crawling with Drukhari and their soldiers, but also do this without harming any civilians in the way." Harkor spoke with narrowed eyes
"You don't have to believe me, Warsmith. All you have to do is just watch the fireworks." Ben replied as he transformed into Heatblast
"Now if you don't mind, I have work to do…Also, Kroeger when I do this, and make it look easy as always. Tell your commander here that I told them so." Heatblast further spoke before rocketing off into the air
"I will do just that, Tennyson. Good luck and by the throne take them all to hell!" Kroeger said with a vicious smile about him
"Lieutenant, you cannot be serious in thinking that even with his Xenos forms. That one man can annihilate an entire Hive filled with Xenos. That is something that only the Custodes or our own Matriarch would be capable of. Even then, I would hold my reservations on such a feat being made possible without casualty." The Warsmith said back as one of the Ultimatrix's viewing drones allowed for live viewing of what would soon happen to the Hive
"Trust me when I say that, we are made lucky by the Emperor to have Tennyson on our side. Otherwise, I doubt that even if we unleashed our entire arsenal on his head…That all we succeed in doing is pissing him off, and then we would have something worse than the fucking Necrons to deal with." Kroeger spoke as they saw the Pyronite scanning the area as though going through rapid-fire calculations
"If that is truly the case, then I will allow you to command the Tyrant Siege Terminators; when we launch our next assault. However, if this is naught but exxagerations, then you will be cleaning the Land Raiders by hand…Do I make myself clear?" The Warsmith said back as the pugacious lieutenant couldn't help but let a wide grin split across his face
"Crystal." Kroger replied with a supremely smug grin
All the while, Heatblast would finish using his powers over flame and heat to make his final calculations and adjustments on how much power he would have to use to make good on his word. Once he finished doing so the being made of solar plasma, flames and hardened volcanic rock cracked their knuckles before their hands blazed to life. So much so that as they raised them upwards that a warbling fireball appeared in the sky, at first inconsequential in its size no larger than a soccer ball, before it was willed to grow rapidly in size and intensity.
The unassuming fireball growing rapidly in size and strength until within the span of a single minute did it reach obscene proportions, having grown to the size of what could only be described as a miniature sun that held such heat and enormous flames that it made the air itself scream and writhe in hatred. The massive sphere being in such gargantuan circumference that you could see it burn away nearby clouds, the width of it nearly matching the curvacture of the skyline seen from the tallest of spires, and a brilliance, the brilliance of it all was monstrous. So much so that that the egregious heat of it and the searing light could be seen as far down as the Underhive, who for the first time in aeons thought that a second star had suddenly been birthed into existence.
Once Heatblast's 'sun' of sorts had reached a size he deemed necessary, he snapped his fingers as his construct exploded into hundreds of millions of javelins made of fire the size of a Salamander in Terminator armor. The javelins of immolating flame hurtling at such speeds that they could've been confused for shooting stars in the midst of the day, each one breaking through the sound barrier at speeds that make a Bolter shell look sluggish, as they not only descended like a meteor storm crashing into the planet. No, no, no, instead they would scatter and begin seeking out any and every Drukhari present in the Hive; as though they were bloodhounds racing after their mark once having caught a fresh scent from the scene of a crime.
The javelins seeking them out no matter where they were, in their sentry towers, patrolling the streets, herding prisoners to be made into slaves, gladiators, test subjects for Haemonculi, or any other depraved and debauched future, with pinpoint accuracy. All before striking them down and within centiseconds flash incinerating them on the spot, the burst of fire being intense yet brief enough to leave not even leave ash behind. With it being that those that were able to sense and perceive the sudden swarm of flame javelins racing towards them, that they were either unable to escape or evade them, before being impaled by and subsequently scorched out of existence by them.
Given that no matter where they would run off or hide too, that the javelins would track them down as though keyed into their heat signatures, and like angry hornets chase them down until they inevitably caught up to them…The flashes of brief yet brilliant immolation lighting up the hive city like oversized fireflies swarming about before being swiftly stamped out, the Ultimatrix wielder watching with impunity as the lives of each and every Drukhari within the Hive City were snuffed out in rapid succession.
With it having been a total of 1 minute 16 seconds before every Drukhari in Hive Basteradon had been utterly snuffed out, leaving only scorch marks as any indicator; that they had once occupied the area to begin with. In the hours surveying the hive and simulatenously fortifying it as the Iron Warriors would scour it for any signs of the Drukhari scourge, would a stupefied Harkor alongside many of the 4th Legion barring Kroeger and those who have thought men continue their work. All the while, the Ultimatrix wielder after landing into the Hive City and turning into XLR8 to help with the process of fortifying and surveying the area, looked unnervingly satisfied from having mass eradicated the Drukhari a sinister enjoyment on his features as he helped the soldiers of the 4th Legion.
"Lieutenant, a word in private." The Warsmith spoke to the ever pugnacious Lieutenant
"Of course, Commander, is this something important?" Kroeger asked as they would enter into one of the houses commandeered into a newly made bunnker
"It is, as this concerns Tennyson and namely the strength of him in particular." Harkor answered back
"What about it? He's plenty powerful against the knife-eared bastards and supplies us with more than enough wargear. Honestly, its a damn shame we only have one of him around. Otherwise, we could have enough firepower to make those bastards in the Iron 10th jealous." Kroeger spoke not seeing what their was to worry about concerning the Ultimatrix wielder
"While I will admit that his usefulness in building rather powerful wargear and tech, is nothing short of incredible. Not even our best techmarines are this prodigous." Harkor said back in being willing to admit that Ben held a terrifying affinity for crafting poently powerful pieces of wargear, war engines and armor
"That being said, it is not the pieces of technology or armor that he crafts for us, that have called my attention. No, it is instead the amount of power that he wields, that is cause for my concern." Harkor spoke in having had his prior skepticism turn to concern and almost fear of what he witnessed
"Look, myself and Commander Forrix have been telling you that Tennyson in beyond powerful. Those Xenos forms of his are from what I have heard one of our neophytes say ' he is outrageously strong for no reason other than he simply is so'. Honestly, I can't think of a better description of the might he's capable of in combat." Kroeger replied regarding what he'd seen Ben pull off thus far
"And it is that alone that gives me pause, Lieuteant. Especially now that I know that the rumors around his Xenos forms, are more than just that…It makes what I heard of his escapades in retaking Pratherion Prime, Secundus, and Hyperion a startling reality." Harkor said back in now realizing it was more than just a made up rumor to boost morale for those within the system and in the 4th Legion
"I do not see why you are getting bent out of sorts, Commander. Tennyson being this powerful is nothing if not an asset. If anything, we should be thanking the Emperor he is on our side. Can you imagine, what it would be like if the Aeldar got to him first, or Throne forbid those metal monsters managed to have him join them?" Kroeger spoke not seeing the issue for why the Warsmith was so worrisome
"While I will agree yet again that Tennyson's not joining the Aeldari or the Necrons, is a miracle for the Imperium. Otherwise, things would be in admittedly far dire straits. That also presents a new concern that comes to mind." Harkor responded as his features took on a more puzzling look
"What shall happen once the Great Crusade is completed and there are no more battles to be had. What is preventing Tennyson from going off on his own, and doing whatever he wishes without limit? Someone with enough power to wipe out entire Hives in the span of a single minute, and see it as amusement or an inconvenience of sorts…That is something to have worry of if not keep vigilant around." Harkor further spoke knowing that there would only be so much to keep Tennyson's interests before things could spiral out of control
"The man has 18 Legions, millions of Marines, and our Matriarchs alone to help amplify and fight alongside. That alone will give that man more than enough to do…Honestly, and with all due respect given ,you are worrying over nothing, Commander." Kroeger replied in seeing that there was more than enough to occupy Ben's attention from the whims of mass destrution
"That may be so, Lieutenant. However, I would prefer to keep my wits about me, regarding someone so absurdly powerful and proficient, than remain lax knowing they could snuff out an entire planet. All the while, seeing having enough power to rival most fleets as trivial at best…That is something I cannot take lightly," Harkor said back knowing that it would be in his best interest to keep his wits about him regarding the Utimatrix wielder
"That's all fine and well, but do not let your worries over Tennyson's powers; lead you to do something reckless. He is our ally, not some barely sane ticking timebomb, waiting to snap at a moments' notice." Kroeger spoke seeing Tennyson more as a valuableally and less this all-powerful manic destroyer
"I will hold my concerns to myself for now, Lieutenant. However, I will keep my wits sharp near him…there is something about someone with that much power that unnerves me. Even if he is on our side, Ben Tennyson is a dangerous man…Emperor help us if he decides to make name for himself." Harkor replied feeling an almost omnipresent sense of unease around the Ultimatrix wielder
"Then let's not give him any reason too. Now come, we have work to do and assaults to lay the groundwork for." Kroeger said back
"Very well, Kroeger." Harkor spoke as he followed the lieutenant out of their meeting place
'I am going to keep a close eye on that man. The strength to overpower Custodes and single-handedly take planets, is nothing to make light of.' Were the Warsmiths' thoughts over the potential danger of the hero from another time
(6 days later, June 25th, 951. M30, 2:45 Am, Hive Cycladon)
All the while in the days to follow Ben alongside Assault Marines and those from the Iron Havoc Support Squad lead a daring assassination/infiltration mission, that would see one of the Incubi in charge of holding the Hive killed, and setting the Hive to be taken over in one fell swoop in the subsequent evening of the day.
"Can I help you with something?...Sorry, I don't know your name, I'm still getting used to remembering everyone's." Ben asked an approaching Iron Warrior
"Phideark, from the 28th Great Company. I was field promoted to Sergeant last year." Spoke the still freshly made Sergeant of the Iron Warriors
"Well, it is nice to meet another new face, Sergeant. Tell me, what did you want to talk about before we got started?" Ben asked as he set the airship to auto-pilot
"I wanted to ask if what they're saying about you in true. That you really are some one-man army that retook 3 planets in a row?" Phideark asked back
"I am that and more than likely everything they've said. I am from what your superiors say…a lot. Which is ironic given everything that I can do." Ben answered
"That is…I won't lie when I say that I am grateful to the Emperor that your on our side. Not to offend you, but having someone as strong as you is pretty damned terrifying. Especially with what you did to secure Hive Basteradon. I don't think I've ever seen a single person clear out so many enemies that quickly or single handedly. Hell, I don't think Librarians from any of the other Legions save the 15th could do something that incredible." The Iron Warriors Sergeant spoke still shocked by how the Ultimatrix wielder carried out the deed
"To be completely honest with you. Clearing out that city or whatever you call it; was the least impressive thing I've done. Hell, even helping out the Raven Guard a few months ago doesn't even crack my top 20." Ben told the Iron Warrior
"If clearing out an entire Hive City within a single minute and taking back 3 planets in the span of 2 weeks does not do so. Then I have to ask…what would have to be at the height of insanity to make it within your top 20, much less top 10?" Phideark questioned the Ultimatrix wielder
"I can't really say off the top of my head. All I do is know is that at bare minimum that in my top 20, it is fighting a alien, that tried to unravel time itself, to create a multiversal empire for his race. Which had me team up with a hero from another universe to stop him from destablizing reality across all of space-time." Ben answered back much to the Iron Warriors' astonishment
"Y-You're joking right? That sounds unreal to even fathom." Phideark asked taken aback by what he heard out of the sheer scale of absurdity
"Nope, I did it all and managed to squeeze out a victory…I would not recommend it, since fighting someone who can control space time will ruin your everything. Part of the reason why I can't age right anymore." Ben answered back
"That and containing the 2nd Big Bang that I had to deal with back in the day…On the plus side, I'm still alive from that, the downside…I can't really feel my bones most of the time." Ben further spoke in regards to when he had to restrain the artificial Big Bang that Maltruant created nearly 20 years ago
"I-I have no words to say to any of what I've just heard." Phideark spoke at a loss for words in regards to the sheer scope of danger the human before him had been through
"That's why dealing with these Drukhari idiots isn't anything special to me. If anything other than them pissing me off, this is nothing but another day at the office. No more, no less than that, Sergeant." Ben replied to the Iron Warrior
"Anywho, you'd better do a final weapons check. We're approaching the dropzone, and I want everyone to be on their P's and Q's, once we get there." Ben told the Space Marine who nodded and began to head back into the main cabin
"...For what its worth, Tennyson. Thank you for assisting the Legion against the Xenos, I cannot state that enough on behalf of the 4th. Even if your powers are the most terrifying that the lot of us have witnessed." Phideark spoke before continuing on his way to rejoin the others
'If they think what I've done so far is intense, they haven't seen anything yet. I mean shit, I haven't even busted out anything crazy like Ultimate Heatblast, Ultimate Kickin' Hawk, Ultimate Fourarms, or Way Big.' Were the Ultimatrix wielders thoughts as he continued to pilot the airship
With it being another 8 minutes of careful piloting and maneuvering before they would reach their target, the Ultimatrix wielder landing it into one of the towers' rear entrances, where after having Bahamut to bypass the security and surveillance of the citadel in question, would the strike team begin their work. The airship firing a multitude of grapnel lines into the structure, that after some finagling around the Iron Warriors and Ben would quickly rig together a zipline system in order to traverse the gap towards their destination. Once the strike team of Ben, those from the Iron Havoc Support Squad and Assault Marines landed at the rear entrance, would enter as quietly possible after the Ultimatrix wielder was able to disengage the locks to said entrance.
From there would the strike team enter and split into 3 separate teams in order to not only cover the most ground, and eliminate as many targets as possible, but also allowing them to cover their secondary objectives once finished. The strike team then fanning out and with supernatural quickness moved out to eliminate the targets housed within the citadel, the various Kabalite warriors, and other Drukhari soldiers that were busying themselves within their barracks. Engaging in either the maintaining of their weapons, using captured citizens from the Lower and underhives for 'casual torture' as well as target practice with their blades, to even more horrors abound that had them in the midst of turning them into 'furniture',
Would the Drukhari soldiers continuing their debauched activities to the screams and wails of their slaves, some of whom could not even do so from having their vocal cords carved out to make flutes, harmonicas, and horns out of their flesh, bones and nerves…At least until the kicking down of doors by Iron Warrior Astartes who without a word being made, would proceed to gun down the Kabalite soldiers where they stood, by combination of Bolter and Plasma Gun fire. The strike teams would race into the barracks and either immediately blitz their targets with a tsunami of burst-fire before anyone could react; with surgical precision into their heads, lungs, hearts, and other internal organs.
Conversely would they lob a flash or stun grenade into the room and charge in with Power Weapons such as Power Swords, Power Axes, and Thunder Hammers; to beat their enemies to a pulp as they scrambled amidst the chaos to rally themselves in the sudden sneak attacks. All the while, would a constant stream of communication throughout their Vox channels would be kept, wherein the moment that one portion of the strike team would finish their handiwork, would they beeline it to another point of interest. Which would make the dismantling of those within the citadel housing the Incubi's forces, a systematic and startlingly swift termination of Drukhari life within; where not even a heart was left beating throughout the carnage.
Hence why, by the time any of the Kabalite Warriors or even the Wychs present would arm themselves against the intruders would those of the 4th Legion already be at the ready, for a preemptive retaliation against their enemies. Evident when Ben who saw a group of Wychs and Kabalite Warriors rounding a corner to intercept him and his team and box them from either side, would he use one of his cryo grenades that he overcharged and with a show of incredible force and precision, would he lob it into the mouth of a Wych. The raven haired Dark Eldar finding herself choking and gasping as the pomegranate sized explosive lodged itself down her throat, glowing bright cyan before with a shrill WRREEEEEPPP, would it burst into a flash of chilling azure.
The overcharged explosion covering everything in multiple sheets of ice for roughly 80 feet, the now chilled corpses of the Drukhari soldiers being frozen to such an extent that even down to the marrow of their bones were they rendered frigidly solid. Leaving the potent chill behind the Ultimatrix wielder and his strike team as they would surge forwards, in an ensuing but brief firefight where gunfire from both sides were briefly exchanged until Ben would give the order to unleash what he called 'The Bloody Mary' Grenades. Wherein once lobbed would explode on contact to deliver what would be one part roided out tear gas that would make the Drukhari uncontrollably begin projectile weep blood from their tear ducts, and their gums, eardrums and fingernails to burst, due to their veins engorging to the point where they would implode.
They would also find themselves on top of that being shredded by shards of razor-like filament that would rip into them like a white-hot butchers' knife through melted cheese, allowing for Ben's strike team to close the distance and overwhelm them. Either through close-quarters Bolter fire and Meltas to rip into their enemies for quick lethal kills, or allowing Ben to lead the Assault Marines in a devastating charge with their weapons. The Ultimatrix wielder using his lightsaber to cut through the Drukhari before him at speeds that could nearly rival a White Scars Marine, whilst the Assault Marines would tear through their opposition with their chosen Power Weapons, or the brutal heft of a Chainaxe to shred their opponents.
Within the span of under a minute would said strike team lead a veritable hall of carnage in their wake, as they would continue to surge throughout the citadel, making sure that any patrolling Kabalite soldier or Wych were swiftly dealt with, with brutal efficiency. Hence why in the span of 5 minutes would all 3 groups of the strike team have not only finished their primary objective of killing all Kabalite Warriors and Wychs present in the Citadel, but that with their primary objective cleared would they then begin moving onto their secondary ones. These secondary ones ranged from the fanning out to sabotage the armored vehicles of the occupying Drukhari, and turn their enemies weapon caches into pseudo-fortifications for the impending assault in the evening to come.
To the elmination of their flyers, and the further infiltration of surrounding barracks to further kill off their troops, but with Ben's strike team their secondary objectie was stood out from the rest, given that there's was one that Ben had his sights set on. That being the capture and securing of the lead Incubus that was holding the Hive City to begin with, something that took slightly longer than expected given that once said Incubus had been made aware of the chaos within their citadel, had they wisely tried to escape. The elite soldier having quickly grabbed their arms and armament and dashed away in order to escape and radio for reinforcements, yet their escape wouldn't come for two reasons.
One being that their exit points were quickly shut down by snipers from the Iron Havoc Support Squad, who had taken post over the area to prevent such a thing; should any of their targets attempt to run away. The second being Ben's catching up to them after they had had their legs and arms shot out from under them, and quickly bound in manacles and chains to the point of being virtually hogtied and gagged, so that none would have to hear their profanities or bragging of how they would see Ben as their future plaything. From thereon Ben would radio one of the Iron Warriors piloting their airship to pickup the Incubus and have them taken to the Astro Megaship, where he would deal with them after everything was said and done
"What is our next move, Tennyson?" Questioned a Iron Warriors Marine
"Simple, we're going to complete our next objective before we get out of here." Ben answered back as he passed out Melta Charges and other such incendiaries
"We are going to make sure that these idiots no longer have any air support, or communciations with the outside. That's why we're going on a bit of a roadtrip if you will…Think that you and your men will be able to hoof it the next 3 miles without getting caught?" Ben further spoke to the Space Marine
"We may not be as proficient in stealth like our cousins from the 19th Legion. However, we can manage well enough to complete our objective." The Iron Warriors Marine replied
"Awesome…but first and foremost, we will take a few minutes to make sure we are good to go, before we move out. The last thing I want is for any one of you to go in half-cocked. Will that be fine with you, Marine?" Ben said back to the Iron Warrior
"We will only need 3 minutes time to do so, Tennyson. After that, we will be ready to advance to complete our next objective." The Iron Warrior spoke as he signaled for his men to check over their weapons and ammunition before heading out
"Good, good, we have only so much time left before we move out. Let's make every moment count." Ben responded as he took this time to take a small breather of his own
'Now I just to need figure out how to complete my ace in the hole. Then these Drukhari idiots will be perma-screwed.' Were Ben's thoughts as he checked over all of his wargear to make sure he was good to go for their next run
(3 days later, June 28th, 951. M30, Cygnax Secundus, Astro Megaship, 4:10 Pm)
It would be mere hours after the assault on Hive Cycladon would finish in its totality, and as such Ben would contact Forrix on the progress thus far in retaking Cygnax Secundus, whilst he was busying himself with his pet project that would kneecap the Drukhari as a whole.
"That is about the long and short of it, Forrix. Within the next 2 to 3 weeks, Cygnax Secundus should be back under Iron Warriors control." Ben told the Warsmith in regards to the timetable of when said planet would be retaken
"Good to know, Tennyson. On my front we have retaken the Forge Worlds of Therion, Manzah 5, and Libastrol Gamma. We are currently in the midst of retaking Nihore Alpha and thankfully we had. For it seems as though our adversaries were targeting our planets for good reason." Forrix informed the Ultimatrix wielder
"What was the reason they've been going after a lot of your more industrial worlds. Since I've been noticing a pattern here and weirdly enough, they've been going harder towards your more arms and Forge worlds…A good few of them being used to make TItans for you guys." Ben remarked at the worlds that the Drukhari incursion had taken more favorably than others
"That would be due to the fact that, they are capturing these worlds to reproduce their very own Titans." Forrix told the hero of another time
"There doing what now?! I know that them figuring out how to make their own Titans is bad right? That…That under any circumstance is never a good thing, at least from what little I know about them." Ben questioned knowing that stealing the knowledge to replicate the Imperium's 'God-Engines' wasn't good by any means
"No, no it is not by any stretch of the imagination. If these Xenos bastards learn how to successfully create their own twisted versions. Then this will complicate things far more than what they already are." Forrix informed the Ultimatrix wielder
"If that's the case, then it is a good thing I'm working on my 'pet project' if you want to call it that." Ben replied gaining the interest of said Warsmith
"What is this pet project of yours, Tennyson?" Forrix asked with a raised brow
"Other than making Demon Core artillery shells, which by the way I'm about a week and a half from completing. I've been working on a more permanent solution to handicap the Drukhari." Ben answered back
"Tell me something, did you ever wonder why I've been capturing a decent chunk of the Drukhari?" Ben asked the Warsmith
"Hmmm, now that you have brought it to my attention. I have wondered as to why you have taken so many prisoners. I assume that it was to gather intelligence on our enemies so far?" Forrix reasoned as to why Ben had been capturing Drukhari
"That is part of it, since I wanna know what their endgame is to all of this. However, that isn't the main reason as to why I've been capturing so many of them, is for one reason other than intelligence gathering. That being to create a more 'effective' solution to dealing with these heartless monsters." Ben said to a now intrigued Warsmith
"What is this solution of yours exactly?" Forrix asked
"To put it simply, it is studying their anatomy and physiology and using all of what I'm finding out; to create a super virus. Something that will solely focus on infecting them and tear them apart, as one part contagion and one part chemical weapon. That way we can not only get rid of them far quickly during our sieges, but make it so that they won't be able to get back up for a very, very long time." Ben answered back in regards to what his 'pet project' truly was
"That is quite the undertaking, Tennyson. The creation of something to this scale is monumental to say the least, especially with the other projects you are working on. Although I do have to ask how long you have been working on this?" Forrix questioned
"Since I've had my talks with the Emperor, I've had it as something of a precautionary measure. Just in case there are alien species out there that get to out of hand, and cannot be reasoned with. Despite being able to transform into aliens, I know full well that there are some that just will not see reason. Even moreso are a danger to the galaxy and all living things around them, because of that they need to be dealt with, hence why I've had to…Let's say do a number of things that I am not proud of, but penultimately were necessary." Ben answered back in regards to some of what he's done
Wherein despite having been a hero and something that he was proud to do, that he was a rare few times forced to dig into his more malevolent bag of tricks in his tenure as a protector and hero of the Andromeda and Milky Way Galaxies. The 1st being when he had to create contagions to kill off the Ectonurites serving under Z'Skayr that essentially reduced their species to a quarter of what it once was, the 2nd being when during the 2nd Incursean invasion would he use the remains of Malware to create what he dubbed the Obliterator Virus.
A hyper-aggressive techno-organic virus that during the Chimera War that became a partial factor in turning the tide against Vilgax's forces, and having ravaged the Chimera Sui Generis species so much so, that half a sector of space had to be quarantined. It was these among other weapons that Ben had created from contagions, planet-killing W.M.D's, to war engines he had worked ont o contain and kill entire suns, that were within the Ultimatrix wielder's bag of tricks…the Drukhari-based contagion being one of his more tame ones by comparison.
"That is understandable. The Eldar are nothing if not dangerous and even insidious in their capabiltiies. However, I must also ask why you did not seek any of our apothecaries to aid you in this endeavor? I am sure that their medical expertise would help expedite the creation of your viral weapon." Forrix inquired
"We are already busy enough fighting against an enemy on all fronts, Commander. I did not want to detract or take away from our forces already on the field. Especially when they can be better used to save lives as intended." Ben replied in why he had confined himself into working solo on this endeavor
"While that is a commendable reason, given our circumstances. It does not mean you are to burden yourself under so many tasks at once. You are a valuable asset to our defense against this incursion, Tennyson…Not only that, but a valued ally as well, and it would be a shame to have you decline because you did not ask for assistance." The Warsmith said to the Ultimatrix wielder
"Therefore, any assistance that you require is more than at our disposal. We are of one collective whole that strives to bring our enemies low. It does no one any good, if even one part of that whole is compromised and overburdened. That is why after Cygnax Secundus has been reclaimed, I will be recqestioning a portion of our best to aid you in the continued building of you're contagion." Forrix told the almost sleep deprived looking human
"As much as I would like to argue back and say I don't need the help. I am both too swamped with work I need to get done, on top of being way too tired to argue." Ben said back with an almost bear-like roar of a yawn
"I can tell that you have been hard at work, Tennyson. That is why for what it is worth, your efforts have not gone underappreciated. If anything you have put us decades, if not centuries ahead of the Imperial Fists or even the Iron Hands for that matter." Forrix spoke in apprecation of the severe technological leap ahead of their rival Legion that Ben had given them
"Think nothing of it, I just did it because I think you guys are awesome to fight alongside. That and I will be damned if I let a bunch of Cenobite wannabe elves; have the leg up on us." Ben replied eliciting a chuckle out of the Warsmith
"I may not know what a Cenobite is, but I appreciate your humor in light of the situation nonetheless." Forrix said back
"You're welcome…Anyways, I gotta get back to work, between making this super-virus and finishing up work for the Gamma Cannons, and Demon Core Cannons. I've got my hands full, Commander. So until next time, todaloo." Ben said to te Warsmith who nodded as they both ended their holo-trannsmission
'Now then, time to see if that Incubus and those Wyches will be successful subjects for the virus…Mental note, come up with a proper name for my super virus after the planet is taken.' Were the Ultimatrix wielders' thoughts as he headed to the lower decks of his megaship to continue trial tests on his captured 'subjects'
(A week and a half later, Central Nostromo, Hive Sabberadon, 2:12 Pm, July 9th, 951. M30)
Meanwhile on the lightless world of Nostramo was Konstance Kurze overseeing the rebuilding efforts of her homeworld, that were still recovering from the civil war unleashed upon it, as well as coordinating with Shang and Fel Zharost on applicants to become the newest members of the 8th Legion.
"There you are Shang. Tell me, how is the recruiting process for our new aspirants? I hope that it is proceeding well, yes?" Konstance asked her equerry
"As it stands the number of aspirants are double if not triple than what we normally would recieve. By the time we begin training our new aspirants to become part of the Legion, we will have a surplus of new potential Marines." Shang informed his Matriarch
"In fact, Zharost himself has found himself a torrent of new Librarians himself. So much so that even he asserts that our Librarius may almost double in number, from the new talent flooding our ranks. Especially that of Lord Vandrin's eldest son, Oleksandr, who has made quite the impression on Fel." Shang further spoke in regards to their Legions' Chief Librarian having his hands full with the influx of new Psykers
"This is all very good news. It is wonderful to know that what we have done here for my people, have inspired such fierce resolve within them…Even now, I find it almost unbelievable to be heralded as their champion." Konstance replied still coming to grips with being seen as Nostramo's first true superhero
"I do not see how that is difficult to believe, my Matriarch. Despite everything, you gave these people something to hope and believe in. Which is more than most would give these people a day in their lives." Shang said back
"I agree, even moreso after what they have suffered for so many years. Even now, the fact that I let the underlying rot grow so severe, so heinous, and so vile. That it allowed for Devil worshipping filth to take root within my home…oh how it infuriates me so." Konstance spoke despising how her inaction and abysmal oversight allowed for the worship of one of the Ruinous Powers to take place
"While no one could have foreseen the corruption of your homeworld going to that extent. It is all the more important that we improve and further cut away at the rot now. The time we spend here improving the spirit of Nostramo's people, rebuilding its strength of character, and what has been lost. All of that will go towards ensuring that another civil war shall never happen." Shang replied
"That is what matters, Madame Kurze. Otherwise, how else do you presume that a system where justice, order and stability can reign supreme?" Shang asked the Night Haunter
"I suppose you are right in that regard…Even still, it is going to be a trying time for not only my Legion, but my homeworld overall. In fact, I think it may be with this that I may have to make a request of Lorna." Konstance answered back causing the Lord Commander to look back with a curious look on his face
"What request will you be making of the Urizen exactly?" Shang asked in regards to the leader of the 17th Legion
"I have seen how her Legion has made use of Chaplains; in order to keep alive the spirit and moral strength of those within. Perhaps, if time allows it I could request that she train some of my Marines to become Chaplains of the 8th Legion." The Night Haunter anwered back in her idea to fortify the moral quality of the Night Lords
"Are you certain that this will be a good idea?" Shang asked once more somewhat skeptical on the idea
"I am positive of it, the use of Chaplains within the Legion will work greatly to prevent further corruption from taking shape. Even you must admit that the 8th Legion are in need of moral policing, to prevent it from decaying further." Konstance responded knowing her Legion needed such things to turn itself around
"That I cannot deny…While it is true that we are one of the most feared Legions, as well as the most reviled, and putrid in the eyes of our cousins. It is without cause for the fact that we have nothing to uplift us." Shang said back in agreement of the fact
Wherein the Lord Commander of the Night Lords could not deny the merit of incorporating Chaplains into the Legion, given the state of moral bankruptcy and the further rot spread throughout it by Gendor, that to combat it would the Night Lords need a counterbalance to the innate darkness within. Hence why the idea for Chaplains to be utilized into the 8th Legion both for what their intended purpose would be as moral police for the Legion, and to route out any signs of Chaos worship was undeniable in it's twofold purpose.
"Then I trust that you see why my impending request to Lorna is a must…If we are to permanently ensure that the Night Lords will improve in their moral standing, and much more than that prevent a fall to Chaos. Then the use of agents to mitigate such things is of utmost value." Konstance said to her Lord Commander
"While that is good and well, I must also ask who will be leading this new order of Chaplains? We will need someone to spearhead this." Shang inquired as to who would be chosen to do so
"There are two that I have in mind that will lead this endeavor. Captain Zso Sahaal and Sergeant Krieg Acerbus will be in charge of Legions' new Chaplaincy. They are one of the rare few that I know would be best suited to do so." Konstance answered back in regards to whom would lead the Chaplaincy of the Night Lords
"Those are unexpected choices in my honest opinion. I would have expected you to choose Malcharion instead of a Sergeant. Is there any particular reason why that would be?" Shang asked as to why she chose Krieg over the 10th Company Captain
"Malcharion is needed within the 10th Company. While he is a honorable warrior and one I can count on without fail. The future of what must be done for the betterment of the Legion does not reside with him as a future Chaplain." Konstance said back regarding the War Sage's place within her Legion
"I take it that you have foreseen his future to make this decision of yours?" Shang questioned
"Both yes and no. On one hand I have had many visions regarding him and the vast majority conclude one thing. That Malcharion can do the most beneficial good for the Night Lords, if he remains as Captain of the 10th Company." Konstance told the Lord Commander of her Legion
"On the other side to this, his skills of leadership and the grim determination he brings to his men. All of that has shown to me, that if I were to take him away from his position. That it would do far greater harm than good, and that the replacement needed to match what he is capable of, would be too heavy a cost." Konstance further elaborated on her decision
"Fair enough, I suppose. Even still, the 8th Legion will have more than enough changes in the near future. Not only with our new recruits that will be joining our ranks, both of which are Gendor's cousins. We will also have to deal with that treacherous wretch as well." Shang said to the Night Haunter whose expression furrowed into one of deep resolve at the mention of the Painted Count
"I am well aware of Gendor's treachery, Shang. I have already formed plans of my own to hunt not only him, but the remains of his treacherous cabal as well. The price he will pay for corrupting not only the Night Lords, but aiding in the corruption of Nostramo as well. He will do so with his very life in recompense for his crimes." Konstance swore in vengeful declaration against the former Captain of her Legion
"You only need to give the command and I will hunt him down without end. That miserable bastard will never know peace again, so long as I draw breath." Shang responded as a small smile graced the Night Haunter's features
"While I appreciate your spirit and willingness to punish him for his wicked ways. You needn't worry yourself over them, I will organize the hunt myself and see his transgressions dealt with soon enough." Konstance told her trusted companion
"All that I need of you for now; is to continue to aid in leading the Legion as it stands. More than that I will need you to help aid in the transformation of our Legion into a pathway greater. That is the most important task that I ask of you as my trusted companion, and dare I say it…my friend." Konstance further spoke as the Astartes beside her nodded
"If that is what you require of me, then I will do all within my power to make it so." Shang replied with a dutiful nod
"Thank you, Shang…In the meantime, I must prepare myself for a meeting with both Minerva and Fulgrim afterwards, regarding the rebuilding of Nostramo." Konstance replied dreading one meeting over the other
"I wish you the best regarding your meeting with Lady Guilliman. I know that the relationship between the two of you is…strained to put it lightly." Shang said back knowing that things between the Avenging Daughter and Night Haunter were not the best in polite terms
"I would almost take having to spend time with Leona than extended conversations with Guilliman." Konstance spoke as the undercurrent of uneasy nerves could be heard in her voice
"Then I wish you good luck in that regard, Madame Kurze. I will be attending to my other duties of the day while you handle your meetings with Lady Guilliman and Madame Fulgrim." Shang said back before departing to oversee the continued selection process of Night Lords aspirants
'At least, these meetings will go over quickly. Although not fast enough regarding what I will have to do to negotiate with Minerva…All the more reason to despise Skraivok for causing this mess to fester in the first place.' Were the Night Haunter's thoughts as she went about prepping herself for what was to come
With the siege of Cygnax Secundus well underway, we see not only those of the 4th Legion realizing the capacity for destruction that Ben is capable of as he continues to lend his hand in destroying the Drukhari incursion. We also see the Ultimatrix wielder in the midst of creating a bio-weapon that may put the Dark Eldar onto their backfoot for the first time in centuries, this in combination with Konstance setting out to make further changes to the Night Lords, proves to be quite an interesting development. How will things proceed as Konstance strives to better her Legion, while Ben works alongside the 4th Legion to decimate the Drukhari? Well stay tuned to find out in the all-new installments of, Ultimate Alien: Primarch Force.
Alright that'll do it for this one, as I hope you enjoyed this chapter as we bring things back into focus with Ben and the Iron Warriors taking it to the Drukhari incursion, as well as opening up how Ben is gonna change up things for the Drukhari in the future with his 'pet project'. Therefore, I hope that you guys will continue to stick around for more of what is to come in the future, and thanks to everyone who has given a favorite, follow, and review on what you liked of the story, as it is always greatly appreciated.
So without much more to say, this is Pravus666 signing off until next time. Wherein our next chapter to come will follow up more on the Siege of Cygnax Secundus and all the shenanigans that come of it. So stay tuned for all of that good stuff and I will see you all in the next one!
Part 1 Theme Song: Black out the Sun by Sevendust
Random End Song: Appetite for Destruction by N.W.A
Skull Flame: Glad you caught the reference on the new Terminator pattern, also the new name is still a work in progress for the Demon Core artillery...since its gonna take some time amongst the other projects he's working on. Also, I felt that it would make the most sense that Ben gets along rather well with the Iron Warriors, since how they do things and him being outstanding with tech and such would have him fit right in more than likely. Furthermore, we will eventually see Kor get phased out for Argel as you've guessed since without Lorna's favoritism, Kor is now seen as the weakest link and will not only be booted out of the position of 1st Captain, but the fact that he gave her a messed up childhood will also play a part in how far down the ladder he gets knocked down.
KharaBella: It's less Konstance's ruthlessness rubbing off on him, since not only did he show that he can lock in and be a problem during Ultimate Alien. Given that this is a Ben who is pushing 40 and has gone through much more wars and encounters against aliens and who knows what else, on top of what he went through during the Chimera War...this is basically the Drukhari bringing out a lot of unresolved anger in Ben that he never really worked through...ever. Oh yeah, Lorna is furious and as such while she knows that Kor and Erebus are more than likely behind the Chaos Cults on the world's she's taken, she wants to make sure that she has to evidence gathered to truly nail them to the wall. Also, for Erebus, I've got something special planned for him, because I'm not gonna let him get off easily. Furthermore, Lorna's powers are basically like a Cleric from D&D and how they are holy/divine based while Morganna is a straight up space wizard.
Anthony: I don't see him leading his own Thunder Warriors, due to them getting wiped out from how majorly unstable they are. However, after this I can see him being allowed to potentially lead the 20th Legion until Alpharius and Omeagon are found. Also, while Ben won't fall to Chaos most likely; he's gonna have some close calls since Khorne out of the 4 of them is staring directly at Ben, so he's gonna have his work cut out not falling to the Blood God.
MujonaNemo: All I can say is that Ben didn't really come out of his initial encounter with Khorne unscathed, that and he hasn't really worked through a lot of what he went through in the Chimera War. A lot of stuff that both traumatized and made him be at one of the angriest if not the angriest he's ever been in his life.