(Chapter 1: Plans for A New Imperium)
What if in the months that followed from the fateful Edict of Nikaea that the Primarch of the Thousand Sons instead of falling into despair had instead found something within his studies into the Warp. Something that would spark an idea to create a new Imperium, one that would see not only his Legion, and Psykers overall be able to flourish in their new environment, but one that would allow him escape from the dangers that he foresaw were to come.
(September 24th, 001. M31, Prospero, Ultima Segmentum, 2:40 Pm)
It would be nearly 8 months since the fateful Edict of Nikaea as Magnus the Red was currently meeting with one of his most trusted brothers in Perturabo, whom he was discussing his plans of succession with.
"I want to make sure that I am hearing this correctly, Magnus. Given that what you are insinuating on doing is by far the most brazen of your actions yet." Perturabo spoke to the one-eyed Primarch
"You intend to not only secede from the Imperium. You also plan to use your powers of Warpcraft, immense as they may be, to transport the entirety of your system and any Psyker that heeds your call. To an entirely different galaxy to start your own Empire?" Perturabo further questioned
"That is precisely what I intend to do, brother. I was hoping that you would join me as the Warmaster of my new Empire…I know that you have no lost love for our father's Empire either. Given how both he and our Warmaster of a brother treat you and your Legion." Magnus the Red answered back causing a frown to appear upon the Lord of Iron's hardened features
"Do not remind me of that fact. Everyday, I am reminded that despite my genius and what I am, that I am passed over time and time again for that dullard Dorn…Not even Horus's sugarcoated words can erase the fact that I and the 4th Legion are used as thankless grunts." Perturabo spoke bitter over this fact that had become the bane of his life
"Then I implore you and your Legion to join me in what I am to attempt. Think of it, a fresh start for both our Legions, one where you can not only be respected and your talents held in the regard they should have been. But the chance to build and create as you desire, a chance where you and your Legion may have the respect and glory deserved." The Crimson King said
"That is a very and I do mean very promising thought. Even moreso as the Great Crusade comes to a close, do I find myself questioning what my place in this will be." Perturabo replied
"I have an inkling of what it may become and I know that you sense it as well…The blasted Edict showed me that much of our fathers' designs for those who he will see as irrelevant." The Primarch of the 15th said back
"If you are so knowledgeable on what the future will hold for either of us. Then by all means enlighten me, you more than anyone bar Sanguinius or that mad fool Kurze, are a gifted prophet." Perturabo spoke gesturing for Magnus to continue
"Gladly, my brother. For you see, that day showed me one thing. That we are not meant to be apart of the future borne from the Great Crusade. Think about it and I truly mean think on this, Perturabo." The one-eyed Primarch began
"That day showed me that despite my and my Legions' undeniable place as Psykers, scholars, men of science and more. That his Imperium for all it touts itself to be as the epitome of logic, reason, and forward thinking has no place for me. The most vaunted in understanding of what is beyond the immaterial, when everyday more and more Psykers are appearing. That instead of heeding my words and allowing my Legion to continue to better understand the nature of Psykers, what does our short-sighted father do?" Magnus the Red spoke his one good eye burning with pure resentment that colored his voice
"He listens to Russ and Mortarion…Even I admit that his decision to listen to the judgment of a hypocritical barbarian and the words of a witch-hunter, were ill-advised in that matter. Especially when our enemies will not capitulate to the same handicap we have given ourselves…In all honesty, I do not know what he was thinking when he agreed to this." Perturabo replied in having felt disgust for what happened on Nikaea
"Precisely, my point. Especially when Russ's librarius deals with Warp spirits and superstition, rather than logic and the understanding of the Warp on a scientific level. That brute has the gall to call me a sorcerous witch, when his Legion is full of men who are naught but a few steps removed from being feral beasts." Magnus the Red spoke
"In fact, some of them are already feral monsters already. He just so happens to keep them under lock and key, more than a handful being from his own librarius." The cyclopean Primarch further stated
"How do you know this tidbit of information exactly?" The Lord of Iron asked
"Simple, my seers and diviners happened to look into matters my 'trial' on Nikaea. Hoping to find some manner of evidence to swing things into my favor…Although it was too late for them to present it when the verdict was delivered. I found it rather interesting nonetheless, what they delivered to me." Magnus the Red further spoke
From there he explained how his seers and diviners both from within and without his Legion, had found one of the dirty secrets of the 6th Legion, that being the Wulfen, who were Astartes and failed Aspirants that fell to a bestial curse within Leman's geneseed. That said curse turned them into feral wolfmen who prowled the frigid wastes of Fenris as predatory monsters, the Librarius being no exception and even worse off given that they became Dire Wulfen; whose psychic powers turned them into large Warp-wielding berserkers.
Yet the interesting thing about this was that the Wulfen curse was often accelerated by Rune Priests constant use of their Warp Powers alongside their battle brothers causing the rapid acceleration of it to manifest. But instead of dismantling his Librarius for their safety, Russ had the gall to keep his operational despite the use of the totems they used as foci for their powers serving as the catalyst to intensify the curse.
"Why am I not surprised that his hypocrisy would continue…No doubt that the Mjod he drinks has rotted his brain. How his Legion has not been sanctioned for fielding such abominations I do not know." Perturabo spat in response to this information
"You know our 'father', brother. He always has his favorites, Horus, Russ, the Lion ,and Dorn chief among them. Do you truly think he would do anything to his precious attack dog?" The one-eyed Primarch queried
"Fair enough, Magnus, fair enough...Something I am reminded of every single day when I see Dorn's yellow-cladded bastards doing what was promised to me on Terra. Instead of useless garrison missions and thankless sieges in our 'fathers' name." Perturabo spoke
"Now then, that being said. This enlightened me to the fact that soon enough, we will be discarded once it all ends. He was all too willing to cast me aside when I was the most vaunted amongst his sons. After all, who can deny the strength of what my Legion brings." Magnus the Red replied as Perturabo nodded in agreement
"Which is why, I implore you to join my cause…What makes you think that once it is all over that he will not cast you aside as well? He already favors Dorn as his pet architect to build his works. What is stopping him from making that all the more apparent, and casting you and your Legion aside?..Worse yet only keeping you around to do more and more demeaning tasks than what he already does." The Crimson King added as Perturabo's eyes narrowed at this fact that stung him to his core
"As much as I loathe to admit it, you speak the truth. Everyday I find it thrown in my face that Dorn is my supposed better. Him and his yellow-cladded fools with minds of rockcrete and the creativity of plasteel. That with each passing day, that my existence to him is nothing more than a tool to be discarded and used up for his convenience." Perturabo near snarled in hatred of everyday being shown that he was a replaceable tool to the Emperor to be used until he broke
"Exactly, as how many times have you and your Legion worked yourselves to the bone? Gone on thankless and needlessly unremarkable missions that have wasted your talents, resources, and time. All the while the Imperial Fists were given the more 'esteemed' missions and planets to conquer? How exactly is it fair that you toil and work without thanks or gratitude, while Dorn is given all that you deserve?" The Crimson King responded
"You make compelling points, Magnus. Especially when the truth within them does nothing but make my blood roil and froth in anger." Perturabo said back
"Then join me as Warmaster of my new Empire, Perturabo. Join me and together we will forge a new path for ourselves. One that will see neither of us discarded by our self-important father. One that will see our potentials realized to their fullest." Magnus offered to one of his beloved brothers
"Given how there is not much left in regards to a future once the Great Crusade has finished. Barring the exception of a thankless life of being grounded into another footnote in the Emperor's all consuming need to have it all. I do not see much if any issue in joining as the Warmaster of your new Empire." Perturabo spoke as Magnus grinned
"Excellent, and thank you, my appreciation cannot be spoken for enough. I promise that you will not regret this." The one-eyed Primarch swore to the Lord of Iron
"I assume that I will not, Magnus. However, if this is to come to fruition. Then we will need to not only work quickly but cover every single angle, to ensure that nothing goes awry." Perturabo spoke knowing that this would require an immense amount of efforts to pull off
"Trust me, I am ahead of you in that regard. You handle your side of things and I will keep to mine…There are a small number of things that will need tying up before this is to come to fruition." The Crimson King told his brother
"Very well, I will leave you to what must be done, Magnus. But be quick about it, if this dream for an Empire of your own is to work. Then we cannot waste anytime in setting the groundwork as needed." Perturabo spoke as Magnus smiled back
"Trust me, Perturabo. I will ensure that everything will work accordingly. After all, the Emperor isn't the only one who can plan ahead." Magnus the Red replied in having already put things into motion
(3 months later, December 27th, 001. M31, Ultima Segmentum, Swordstorm, 3:09 Pm)
In the months to follow in Perturabo's and Magnus's secret plan to for their very own empire, would the latter of the two meet with the Warhawk of Chogoris to not only inform im of his plans to seceede in the aftermath of the Great Crusade. But also to forewarn him of his visions of Horus's impending Heresy and warn him of the dangers to soon follow in the grim future yet to come.
"Although it cannot be blamed that you choose to soon leave the Imperium. Especially with what transpired nearly a year ago. I do have to ask you this one thing, my brother." Jaghatai Khan spoke to his closest friend and brother
"Ask away, Jaghatai, I have nothing to hide. Especially from you of all my brothers." Magnus replied
"Are you not only sure that this is the correct decision to make? But one that will not have the Emperor hound you, your Legion, or does alongside you; into the arms of annihilation? You know how temperamental he can be when those within his grasp do not capitulate to his whims. Much less leave him and his plans for his future." The Warhawk queried
"I am certain of it and more. My humiliation on Nikaea showed me that I no longer have a place in our fathers' Imperium, much less the galaxy wholesale in which he rules." The Crimson King answered back
"Why should I stay to be a part of his dream, a dream that I was to help guide one day? When I was discarded so easily, my Legion and I censored to such a disgusting extreme. Being forced to become pale shadows of ourselves at the fears of superstitious barbarians and witch-hunters…Why should I participate in something that will have not only myself and my Legion, but Psykers who are like me, be persecuted for something they cannot control? Tell me, my brother why should I stay when my place is to hide in secrecy who I was born to be?" Magnus asked in return his voice filled with scorn and bitter resentment
"That I cannot answer for you. Especially when I am not a fan of our creator as it already stands. That man is naught more than a tyrant, a tyrant that masquerades domination and the snuffing of ideals, behind compliance and enlightenment…After all, take one good look at what he has done to Lorgar nearly 40 years ago, for doing as he was born too." Jaghatai answered while offering up the Urizen as an example of their fathers ways
"How could I forget what happened when the news of Monarchia's burning was made known. That level of cruelty was inexcusable, horrid and completely unnecessary…A long overdue conversation on theology and the nature therein, would have sufficed instead of destroying his great work." Magnus spoke in remembering the day where Lorgar was forced to watch his world quite literally burn
"Honestly, it is examples such as these that have helped me see it all the more; why I must do this…How much longer will it be before my Monarchia comes once he no longer sees a use for me. Worse yet, once he decides I am in need of 'humbling' like Lorgar, because I have not course corrected quickly enough. Perhaps, Nikaea was simply a sign of my end already rushing towards me." Magnus further spoke his one eye looking down somber at the possibility of such a thing
"Then I will implore this much to you, Magnus. Make sure that wherever you and Perturabo build this new Empire of yours. That it is far, far away from the reach of the Emperor…Knowing him, he would not stop until both you and Perturabo were brought low, for your 'betrayal' to his glory and great work." The Warhawk said to his brother knowing that the Emperor would not take such a thing lying down
"I know this full and well, that is why the galaxy I have chosen to 'relocate' to, is more than far enough for my Empire to take root. In fact, it is such that we will be able to have a clean slate; without worry of his attempting to traverse the stars or the Warp to find us. That much I have made sure of." Magnus replied in confidence of where his new Empire would take root in
"Interesting, although that said how will you go about establishing yourselves in this new galaxy? Without the support of the Emperor, nor the Tech-Priests of Mars, it is going to be far, far more difficult." Jaghatai questioned
"That is something that Perturabo and I are still working out. For now at least we are still gathering our forces and resources for the jump to it. Also, for those that reside on Mars, Perturabo will handle that on my behalf. Something about giving them something they cannot pass up." Magnus responded in regards to the Lord of Iron having assured him that he would handle
"Really? What did Perturabo tell you to have you confident enough to leave it in his hands?" Jaghatai asked once more
"That I will keep to myself for now. However, I will ask you this question, Jaghatai. Will you and your Legion consider joining my Empire alongside Perturabo? Even moreso with the dangers to come from Horus?...Not only have I forseen him rising against the Emperor and causing a bloody civil war, but it is one that will bring chaos and the potential death of many of our brothers." Magnus answered back
"Will you not join us? We could use a regent and someone to spearhead the exploration of our new domain…Not only that, but I ask this so I do not have to witness one of my brothers die to Horus's ambition…Will you join me to start anew and now see yourself be cast aside in the flames of Horus's dark future, or the underlying rot of the Emperors?" Magnus requested of the Primarch of the 5th Legion
"While joining you in this new venture is an entertaining prospect, Magnus. One that calls to my wild spirit, a spirit that longs to eternally race across the stars, and find battle as a warrior in all its wild places...I cannot lie when I say that it would be an honor to do so; in light of what is coming." Jaghatai said to the Crimson King
"Then why do I feel as though you will not agree to my request?" Magnus asked the Warhawk
"That is because if what you say is true. Then I cannot leave the Imperium and its people to suffer what is to come. The fact that a civil war is to come within a few fleeting years' time, is something that I cannot ignore. You more than anyone know that I cannot run away from a fight. Especially when this battle, nee war will cause a tyrant to remain or one to drag the galaxy into bloody ruin...Someone must stand as a vanguard for the oncoming storm, Magnus, my pride and my honor would not allow me to flee from this." Jaghatai answered back his honor and spirit refusing to let him abandon the Imperium when and if war was to erupt
"I see and for that I cannot blame you. You were always an honorable sort, something that I always admired about you out of all our brothers." Magnus said to the Primarch of the 5th
"That is why, I cannot in good conscience allow myself to leave the Imperium. My spirit would remain restless if I did so…This is why, when this darkest hour arrives to divide our home. That I and my Legion will stand ready to strike. We will ride out with an unholy swiftness and bring vengeance down on our treacherous kin." The Khan swore to the Crimson King who chuckled at that notion
"Very well then, I know that I cannot sway you from staying to protect those within the Imperium. However, I will warn you of a few certain events to watch for. One that will change things immensely in the onset of Horus's dark rebellion." Magnus told the Warhawk
"What or rather when exactly shall that be, Magnus?" Jaghatai queried
"It all begins on Istvaan 5, Jaghatai. There the World Eaters, Death Guard, Word Bearers, Night Lords, Sons of Horus, Emperor's Children ,and even the Alpha Legion; will not only send the Loyalists to die there. They will also ambush the Raven Guard, the Salamanders, and Iron Hands there in a bloody massacre." Magnus informed the Warhawk
"It will be there that not only will great tragedy be dealt that day. It will also be on that day that Fulgrim will slay Ferrus Manus using a blade corrupted by a powerful Daemon of the Warp…If you are to truly change the darkest future of Horus's rebellion, then you and your Legion must aid in lessening the deadly tide of slaughter to come. You must also intercede and prevent Ferrus from dying on Istvaan at Fulgrim's hands, otherwise the rebellion of the Lupercal will begin a nightmare from which there is no escape." Magnus further told the Khan
With him emphasizing his point by using his potent powers in Warpcraft and what little sorcery he knew to show Jaghatai a lifelike vision of the massacre on Istvaan 5, how the Legions of the 10th, 18th, and 19th, would not only be slaughtered by their treacherous brothers. That it would be on that planet where Ferrus would meet his end by a possessed Fulgrim who would without hesitation decaptitate the Gorgon with his daemon-infested Laer blade, and with it the Horus Heresy would begin in full.
"I see…If that is the case, then I have much to prepare for." Jaghatai spoke still reeling from the intense vision
"Indeed, Jaghatai. It is also with this that I would rally as many of our brothers to counter this as well. Especially Sanguinius given the might of the 9th Legion, and his strength as one of the strongest and most noble of our brethren. It is with this I ask that you do as much as possible to prevent this tragedy from happening…Fulgrim must be stopped from killing Ferrus if Horus's rebellion is to be lessened in its grizzly beginnings." Magnus told the Warhawk
"I will do the best that I can to warn Sanguinius of the future to come. Although I may need your help to aid in convincing him. Especially with how close he and Horus are to one another." Jaghatai replied knowing that it would take a considerable amount of convincing to do so
"That is understandable." Was the Crimson King's sole reply
"Are there any other words of wisdom that you wish to impart upon me?" Jaghatai asked
"Be weary of Konrad and the Night Lords, they will prove a thorn in the side of all who resist Horus. His insanity will make him incredibly dangerous. Kill him and his maddened sons as quickly as you can." Magnus warned in regards to the maddened Night Haunter
"That is of no surprise that the insanity of Curze will be nothing but a blight onto us all…Who else must I be wary of when the time comes?" Jaghatai questioned
"Be on guard for Lorgar and Mortarion both. The former has given himself to the worship of new dark gods. These insidious deities of the Warp are what guide Horus in his growing darkness…More than that, Mortarion will find himself a champion of one of these dark gods, and in doing so become an harbinger of plague and unholy resilience. One that will have the Death Guard become spiteful pox-ridden slaves of a bloated, maggot riddled god of pestilence." Magnus answered back in regards to the other two threats he had forseen
"I find it hard to believe that Mortarion would willingly give himself over to another. Especially something born out of the Warp." Jaghatai spoke semi-skeptical of Moratrion's future
"Whoever said that he would do so willingly? I only know that it will happen to him, this much is an immutable truth of what is to come…Beyond that my anticipations of the future are still unknown." Magnus replied to the Warhawk who had a pensive look about himself
"I see…In that I have much to prepare for…However, I will ask one more question before you soon depart Magnus." Jaghatai spoke
"By all means ask it, I have nothing to hide from you." Magnus replied looking back at the Warhawk with his one remaining eye
"Why would you tell me of this, rather than that of the Emperor? Would it not be more advantageous to do so?" Jaghatai asked once more with a critical gaze
"The answer to that is a simple one that I am all too happy to give." Magnus answered back
"Why would I tell a father who so blatantly and willingly censored me and my Legion for who and what we are. When I could instead tell a brother that I trust wholeheartedly, a brother who I know will do the right thing when needed, and most of all the most noble and honorable within my familial circle. That is my reasoning why I tell you instead of the Emperor, Jaghatai. Because beyond Sanguinius, I know that I could entrust to you my very spirit; should anything happen." Magnus told the Warhawk who smiled at the answer given
"Then I am glad that you see me as so trustworthy…I swear that I will put the wisdom you have gifted me to good use, Magnus. You have my word as a Primarch that I will do so." Jaghatai promised the Crimson King who nodded at this
"Good to know, my brother. Furthermore, when all is said and done in the aftermath of Horus's rebellion. Should you still yet live in it's aftermath, I will leave the door open for you and your Legion to join what Perturabo and I are creating…I love and trust you more than most, and it is why I will always leave the option open for you." Magnus told him with a wearisome sigh in his voice
"...Now then, if you do not mind. I have other matters to tend to. The building of a new empire will not take care of itself. So until next we meet, this is farewell." The Crimson King said back before disappearing in a flash of Warp energy onto his own ship
'4 years to prepare the prevention of a tragedy…At least I will be ready to stop the horrors of what Horus will unleash soon enough.' Were the Warhawks' thoughts knowing that he had much, much work to do
(2 months later, February 25th, 002. M31 ,Prospero, Ultima Segmentum,3:45 Pm)
In the start of the new year, would Magnus work on the guidelines of his and Perturabo's new empire with his trusted 1st captain, Ahriman. The Crimson King hard at work in doing so, whilst having looked into the deeper parts of the Warp for a permanent cure to the horrific Flesh Change that he could sense still plaguing his sons.
"I am impressed, Magnus. It is not often that I see you this involved in something beyond scholarly pursuits and the studies of the Warp." Ahriman spoke to the ever studious Primarch
"Given the state of things since Nikaea, I have had more than ample time to dedicate myself to other matters. Both beyond and within the Legion, this being one of them." Magnus replied as he continued to telekinetically write multiple pages on what would be the constitution to his Perturabo's Empire
"If you do not mind my asking what matters, have you dedicated yourself to improving?" Ahriman asked as he helped edit the laws Magnus was writing for the constitution of his joint Empire
"The improvement of our Cults as one matter. Given that with Nikaea, I have had to make certain adjustments to mitigate the damages dealt by that blasted Edict. It is also with these changes that have shown me that there is much work to be done to the Legion once our new Empire is created." Magnus answered back
"What improvements have you desired to put forward? With my position as both 1st Captain of the Legion and its Chief Librarian, I feel that I should be privy to the changes you intend to put forward. Especially with how I am often your right hand in most matters, am I not?" Ahriman asked once more curious as to what these improvements held
"I am more than glad to elaborate, Ahzek. My purposes at the current moment are to have them become more regimented and prepared for battle at any moment. To see our Legion go from simply this into an entire army ready and able to effectively carry out what must be done….With the advent of our being censorship at the hands of my father, that barbarian Russ, and that pale wretch Mortarion, and even that pale coward Corax who was just as vocal for our censorship. It has led me to one single conclusion of the 15th Legion's future." Magnus told his 1st Captain
"That being of how our psychic might has led us far, and will remain as such. That with what is to come as we build our new Empire. That we will need to be ready to contend against a new horde of enemies. Hence why I am focusing all Cults to become more focused in the matters of becoming more martially and tactically adept…I want to ensure that no matter what happens, that we will not be left hapless against our new enemies." Magnus further elaborated as to why he was further militarizing his sons
"I did not think I would see you turn from scholastic pursuits and fully towards war. Normally you have had a foot in both doors in your tenure as Primarch of the Thousand Sons." Ahriman spoke
"Beforehand I did not have reason to do so…Now however, I have more than ample reason to not only turn to becoming more warlike. I have also gained reason to tap deeper into the depths of the Warp." Magnus replied gaining more of his 1st Captain attention
"Would you mind elaborating on this, Magnus? Just how much deeper into it have you delved into?" Ahriman asked with concern etching its way into his voice
"Enough that I have increased the strength of what I can accomplish by magnitudes now…In fact I would daresay that by the time we venture forth to create our new Empire, that I may reach equivalence to the Emperor in terms of psychic might." The Crimson King answered back much to Ahzek's surprise
"Did..Did you just say that you are approaching the strength of your father?!" Ahriman said in surprise
"Yes I am, Ahzek. From my delving into the Deep Warp as I've taken to calling it. It turns out that what we have assumed as having sailed through its most turbulent waves, and mastering it for expedient travel. That all we have truly done is skim across the surface of a nigh-infinite ocean, that all our ships have truly done is glide across the waves of something for more ancient and overwhelming in its scope." Magnus replied his one eye shining with the knowledge he had begun to amass from his deep dives into the more abyssal reaches of the Warp
"Do you know what I have discovered since my travels into the Deep Warp, Ahzek?" Magnus asked his 1st Captain
"What exactly have you found within its depths? I trust it must have been something immeasurably astonishing to earn repeated trips." Ahzek asked back
"I discovered things that would make the Eldar shiver in horror, Ahzek. I have seen cities made of the corpses of dead gods, cosmic storms that could devour worlds like candy, and libraries full of infinities so grand that I required my full focus so as not become lost within their depths…Most of all, Ahzek, I encountered something or rather something awakened within my presence there." Magnus answered back
"What did this entity say to you when you ventured there?" Ahzek further questioned
"Upon one of my visits when I was collecting research into seeing what more lay within the Warp. It appeared to me, Ahzek, a being made of living shadows, terror, and radiating dread powers so unfathomable that I dare not utter a profanity in its presence, lest I felt myself be consumed on the spot." Magnus told him as he began to recount the experience
"What the entity told me, Ahzek…It gave me something that is a game changer for not just myself, but the entirety of the Legion." Magnus added as he began to recount his experience and subsequent encounters with the entity
Wherein the entity had introduced itself as the primordial manifestation of darkness itself, having awakened due to what it called the 'Ruinous Upstarts' waking it up from its slumber, with it speaking in great disdain of the youngest of the 4 'Upstarts' that it termed. With the primordial in question taking interest in Magnus and the Crimson Kings' psychic potential, and upon inquiry of what the Primarch was doing within the depths of the Sea of Souls, became fascinated by their quest for not only knowledge, but to save the 15th Legion and unlock their full potential.
As such the nameless Primordial decided to indulge Magnus and gift them a grand map that would show them how to fully navigate the entirety of the Warp, in addition to cancelling the looming hold that the Architect of Fate had over him, his Legion, and truly taking away the Flesh Change. The only thing that it asked in return for this gift was that when he and Perturabo would make their venture into what would be the birthplace of their new empire, that Magnus cracked open the upper layer of the Warp enough for it to re-enter into the Immaterium…The reason simple in that it wanted things to be much, much calmer before the birth of Slaanesh sent everything into turbulent spirals of noise and blistering brightness, and as such would make the Dark Prince bleed for interrupting the silence it once enjoyed.
"And you agreed to this things' deal?" Ahriman asked
"I did, after all what reason would something that could snuff out my entire being; with a blink of its eyes. What reason would it have to tell a lie, when it knows that it could do whatever it wanted to me, and I would be hapless to stop it?" Magnus countered knowing that the entity wouldn't make the offer unless it knew it had all the cards on the table
"Very well then, but if this entity that you have conversed with for who knows how long, gains access into the Immaterium as we know it. Are you not concerned with what this will mean for the Imperium? What it will mean for your brothers?" Ahriman wondered
"While I do hold some concerns for what it will mean. It is of no consequence to what I and Perturabo will endeavor to do…Besides, my brothers are fully capable of handling themselves." Magnus spoke
"Besides, if anyone can handle the approaching storm that is to come. I hold faith that Sanguinius and Jaghatai will pull the Imperiun through its darkest days yet to come. Especially with the safeguards I am putting in place to ensure their survival." The Crimson King further spoke
"It seems that you have accounted for every possibility of misfortune to come. I will say that the Edict has caused you to take things far, far more seriously than ever. One could even say that this preparedness and militant forethought of yours recently, would be enough to make someone like Guilliman or the Lion proud." Ahriman spoke with a semi-joking tone towards the end to lighten the mood of things
"That is the one universal positive that has come from this damnable edict, Ahzek. It has shown me that I must be more proactive in regards to what I endeavor to accomplish. I cannot simply rely on being a scholar, magician, and a man of sciences solely. I must also grow in order to ensure that I nor those of my Legion are made lesser by anyone or anything…All of you are deserving of that much from me." Magnus replied knowing that he needed to focus more in terms of combat and the martial aspects of himself if he were to truly protect himself and his Sons
"On behalf of our Legion, the sentiment is greatly appreciated." The 1st Captain of the 15th Legion spoke causing a smile to spread across his Primarch's face
"Thank you, I am pleased to hear that…Nonetheless, let us continue drafting the laws and regulations of our Empire. If it is to truly succeed, then we must ensure that there is order and stability within it." Magnus spoke as from thereon would the two continue their work on their Empires' constitution
(1 week later, March 4th, 002. M31, ?, Craftworld Ulthwe, 2:10 Pm)
All the while within one of the many Craftworlds beheld by the Eldar, would one of its greatest Farseer's in Eldrad Ulthran be in conversation with one of his closest confidants in Khiraen Goldhelm. Whom he'd summoned in order to converse over his most recent visions of the Lupercals' rebellion and the impending doom it would bring to the galaxy over.
"It is strange Khiraen. For the first time in many centuries if not millennia. I am left at odds over what to do over the growing severity of my visions." The esteemed Farseer spoke to the wizened wraithlord
"With each passing day not only have my visions grown stronger. I find my ability to sift through the omens of what is to come, what the Emperor's sons will bring about and how to counter the destruction they will wrought…All of it I am left at unease in how to navigate; in order to ensure not only the survival of our people. In addition, the galaxy over will fracture on a scale not seen since Slaanesh's birth and the great fall of the Eldar." Eldrad spoke feeling for the first time in ages a near mountainous anxiety root itself in his being
"Now that I am made aware of the dangers presented by your visions. Something that cannot be understated in the sheer scope of potential annihilation. I feel that the best thing we can do is step-by-step work our way to mitigating the damage that will be dealt." Khiraen replied his voice measured and ever composed in its timbre
"That is easier said than done these days. With the tides of the Warp having grown more and more turbulent by the day. The Imperium of Man reaching heights of decadence and conquest, amidst their Warp-tainted Warmaster pulling the strings of something far, far worse at play. I cannot help but feel in my very veins that the future those Monkeigh will unleash, will be a devastating one if not acted upon." Eldrad said back
"Then let us start small and work our way outwards." Khiraen spoke from within his ancient carapace
"The first and most necessary part of what must be done; is to organize a diplomacy mission with one of the Primarchs. If we are to begin lessening the blow of what is to come, in this dark future you have foreseen. Then we must act accordingly." Khiraen further spoke
"Very well then. The Warmaster himself is clearly out of the equation, but that does leave another who I have foreseen will be an important linchpin in matters…Rather multiple in that regard that can stem the bleeding of what may be." Eldrad said to the ancient Wrathlord
"Who did you have in mind?" The Wraithlord inquired
"There are 3 that are within my purview to do so. They are The Great Angel, Magnus the Red, and Lion El'Jonson. These 3 are amongst those who I deem the most trustworthy with this knowledge to prepare for the darkness to come. That much I have foreseen, my long-lived friend." Eldrad answered back
"Hmmm, then whom out of these 3 do you think will be the best to talk with first?" Khiraen questioned
"We start with Sanguinius first, Khiraen. The Great Angel is not only the most amicable of them, but the most understanding to convince between them of the threat to come." The Farseer told the larger form of his companion
"How do you think that he will handle the threat of not only Ruinous Powers, but the news of what is to come concerning the Lupercal? The fact that one of his brothers, and one of his most beloved is a puppet of Chaos, this will be a daunting task to undertake." Khiraen spoke knowing that it was going to be a tall order indeed
"I know, in fact I knew this in regards to convincing any of the Primarchs of what is to come. The Imperium's Warmaster has done a fine job of giving little if any doubt that he would ever do something so heinous." Eldrad replied aware of the task at hand
"However, I must attempt to do so regardless. Convincing even one of them and building upon an alliance to circumvent the disaster of what will be…That is paramount to the survival of not just the galaxy, but the fallout that would ensnare every Craftworld within a matter of years if not decades at best." Eldrad further spoke
"Then may I make a suggestion if you would be so inclined to hear it? It may make things that much easier to do regarding the Primarchs in question." Khiraen requested
"What did you have in mind?" The Farseer asked
From there he requested that it would be far simpler to meet with all of them rather than one at a time, this way he could inform all 3 Primarchs of the threat at hand, and better coordinate with them on how to deal with the future threat of Chaos and Horus Lupercal. Something that the powerful Psyker of an Eldar would admit was a much more expedient and effective idea, than going one by one to each Primarch in separate meeting with one another in order to help formulate a plan to kneecap the Lupercal's rebellion before it could begin.
"If we manage to pull this off and the likelihood is at best a modest one. Then we will need to coordinate with further Craftworlds in order to ensure that this rebellion is stunted; before it can truly take shape. We must deny the Ruinous Powers any hope of being able to take greater influence than what they already have." Eldrad spoke determined to deny not only the Dark Prince but the other 3 Chaos Gods any victory
"Then we should begin immediately after contacting the Primarchs in question. The swifter we do so, the better our chances against the evils yet to come…While I remain confident in the power of our home, I know as well as you that all alies that can be gained; must be done so with great expedience." Khiaren said back knowing that the more Craftworlds they gathered under their banner the better
"I agree, and I already have a few in mind that will be best suited to the task yet to come." Eldrad spoke his features hardening
"For now, we begin setting the place, time, and day of when this meeting of the Primarchs will begin. Everything must go without fail; if we are to prevent even further of our race from being dwindled to naught but a handful…Otherwise, we face another calamity on the horizon." Eldrad further spoke
"What would you have me do on my side of things, old friend?" The ancient Wraithlord asked the Farseer
"Get in contact with the Phoenix Lords as soon as possible. Once the eve of the Lupercal's rebellion begins, and it will do so in a tidal wave of ultraviolence, then we will need to summon our full strength against it. I have no doubts that with what is to come in the upcoming years of this new millenia will require the help of our strongest yet." Were Eldrad's words as the Wraithlord did its approximation of a dutiful nod
"I will see too it that it is done…Jain Zar and her Banshees have been in ferocious uproar for more battles to be had. I feel as though with the impending war we may face, that she will scream her heart out in bloody joy." Was Khiaraen's response as Eldrad chuckled slightly at that
"Indeed she will, Khiaren, indeed she will." Eldrad said back
'Yet why do I feel within the core of my being, that for the first time in centuries…That I may need to seek prayer to our fallen gods on what we may do next.' Were the Farseer's trepidation-filled thoughts of unease at the war yet to come
And so with Magnus in the advent of the Edict of Nikaea deciding to carve out a Empire with Perturabo and their Legions across the stars, we also see the Crimson King in question making plans to prepare as many of his trusted brothers for the Lupercals' rebellion as possible. That being said, will Magnus's efforts pay off in the prevention of future bloodshed for his brothers before he sets off on his starbound journey alongside Perturabo? Well stay tuned to see as we close out things here in An Imperium in A Galaxy Far, Far Away!
Alright, that'll do it for this one as we begin our Warhammer X Star Wars crossover, which at this point in time takes place a few years before the Heresy, and roughly 330 years before Star Wars canon…how Magnus and Perturabo will be getting there is something I will be getting into later. For now I hope that you guys are ready for the ride ahead because there is a whole lot to get into and through for what's to come, so I hope you guys are ready for it.
So with all that being said, this is Nomadic Chaos 888 using the power of said Chaos to give you guys great stuff to read, and may the powers of Chaos also give me inspiration for some 'funny' shenanigans to hit y'all with in the story down the line. That said, our next chapter will continue Magnus's and Perturabos' efforts to prepare themselves for their starbound journey to where their future Empire will soon take place, so stay tuned for all of that good stuff to come.
Part 1 Theme Song: Black Star Deceiver by Soilwork
Random End Song: Lights Out by Breaking Benjamin