#oc: ghosk

[c-u-c-koo-4-40k]

Do I Know You? - Part 2

Summary: While Lullaby spends their first days alone in a long while, Khopesh and the rest of his claw are busy on their mission. It's a matter of extreme delicacy, and importance as it involves the disappearance of hybrid children. 

Previous Chapter: HERE

Next Chapter: Not Here Yet Here Now

First Ever in the Series: HERE

Tag List: @kit-williams @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan (all of whom have amazing characters that make cameos here!) @sleepyfan-blog @egrets-not-regrets @legionsofthehungry

@passionofthesith @bispecsual @bleedingichorhearts @beckyninja

Location: Redacted 

Time: 11:00 PM

Current Objective: Pre-mission Briefing 

As Khopesh enters the briefing room alongside his Claw and behind his ‘father’ Anrir, he realizes there is a familiar face here. 

A portly Death Guard with a mouth of sharpened teeth on his gut, probably to replace the jaw decaying off his face. 

“Xerxes,” Khopesh greets the marine who smells of death with a sharp but genuine smile. 

“Ah…Khopesh….good to seeee…you once…Again.” He breathes, both mouths speaking in sync. 

The other in the room, an Ultramarine Apothecary, glances between the two. “You know each other?”

Xerxes smiles. “Indeed…Medeathe…we share some…common interests…” 

Khopesh grins. The absolute Cheek of older cousin Xerxes, implying their alliance right in front of a stranger. Well the Ultramarine is a stranger to Khopesh, he's not sure if Xerxes knows him better. They'd make an odd combo regardless, with Xerxes as a walking nurgle corpse and Medeathe practically the poster child for an Ultramarine, with his bright blond hair and deep blue eyes. 

As for the reason Khopesh and Xerxes interact…not like he can complain, he'd probably do the same. 

Xerxes continues his explanation, “And I often traverse ... .his neighborhood.”

“Haven't seen you as often though. Have you found a place with better leftovers to pilfer?” Khopesh chuckles. 

Xerxes takes the comment in good humor and lets out his odd lilting and slow laugh. “HaHaHa, Perish…the Thought…I have been…occupied with matters…of the home…”

Anrir perks up a bit at that. “So it's finally happened then?”

The others in the room perk up a bit at Anrir's apparent interest. 

“What's fucking happened?” Karlsor asks. 

Xerxes lopsided grin grows wider. “Ah…sharp as…ever…Nightlord…and Yessss.” Xerxes pulls out his vox and begins swiping through it. 

The Night Lords, save Ghosk, immediately crowd around the image being shown. Khopesh, Claude and Karlsor are curious as to what the older Marines are talking about, and Anrir does so for scientific curiosity…mostly. Ghosk doesn't want to bother leaning pushing his way into the crowd, but he does glance at the images being shown. 

On the screen is a baseline human and a tiny bundle with a face in her arms. Ghosk seems to realize something Khopesh doesn't and chuckles with a “Well I'll be…”

Khopesh and Claude don't really get it. “A baby?” Like sure babies are cute but plenty of bonded humans have them from previous pregnancies or adoptions. 

“Your baby?!” Anrir asks with an uncharacteristic, almost reverent tone.

“Holy Fucking Shit.” Karlsor mumbles. 

Xerxes beams with pride. “They're name is Vespa… my little Larva.” He says, cooing over the photos. And indeed in other pictures where the child is a bit older it's far more obvious the little one has mostly their mother's looks, but their bright green eyes and their mossy hair hint at their father's identity. 

Medeathe just stares wordlessly, perhaps he feels uncomfortable with the thought of hybrid children. 

Claude blinks. “Wait! That's actually possible?? For a human and an Astarte to…To-”

“Yes!” The Ultramarine breaks in on the awkward statement with a terse tone. “It is Possible, Scout. Do not make a scene.”

Khopesh narrows his eyes at the rebuke. Mild or not, he doesn't take kindly to people chastising Claude for no reason. 

Medeathe takes a steadying breath, and his next words are much kinder. “I apologize for my tone, Scout. But I've had that conversation so many times at this point it's driven me damn near the edge of my sanity.” 

Xerxes laughs again. “Indeed…there is a reason…at the clinic…they call you…the Midwife…” Medeathe rolls his eyes but Xerxes continues. “He is…the foremost…when it comes…to labor and delivery of…hybrid children. He was even consulted…during my mate's…premature delivery.”

Claude speaks up. “It is alright older cousin, I understand the headache of having to explain things more than once.”

Khopesh pulls back on his snark. Medeathe is right, baselines can also treat the subject of hybrids…poorly, and perhaps the Ultramarine didn't want Claude to pester Xerxes. He'll hold his tongue for now.

No someone Else was doing that already. “I knew when I smelt the pregnancy hormones from your mate on you. When was the due date! And how long was the gestation!? Were there any complications pre or post delivery? You must tell me!” Anrir asks with urgency. 

Xerxes chuckles and is about to reply when-

“Save the baby pictures for Afterward gentlemen. We have a matter of great importance to attend to.” A dark and gruff yet refined voice speaks from the doorway. 

The others turn to see a Black Legionnaire with a face of criss-crossed scars and a cybernetic implant that goes from his chin to his forehead. In fact it seems to go further, actually trailing along the marine's bald head and down to the back of his neck. 

“Captain Horlux.” Anrir greets, making a quick battle sign to which all the Claw members stand at attention and make way for the other marine. 

Horlux walks past, seemingly reading each of the Claw up and down. Claude feels himself sweat a bit, the Captain's gaze is intense, and his presence feels as if it has a pressure all its own. He briefly remembers how it felt being examined by his previous Raven Guard commanders. 

Just as Claude is feeling his stress rise. Horlux nods, seemingly satisfied with what he's observed and turns to walk to the front of the room with a quickly grunted. “At Ease.”

The Claw relaxes where they stand and move to gather where Horlux and the Ultramarine Apothecary are setting up the presentation. 

“I have Gathered you here to undertake a very important and delicate mission.” Horlux explains, and some images flash on the projector screen.”

Images of a warehouse appear, along with several images of different baselines and Astartes. They seem to be bonded pairs.

Khopesh smiles while a growl bubbles up in his throat. He remembers the rage he felt when he learned of the Chaos Blood Angels who would kidnap bonded humans to kill them so they could feel the warp backlash of the bond breaking. Then kill the Astarte if they'd captured them. 

“Easy Curzling,” Horlux hushes. “So far we know for a fact these baselines aren't dead. However, they have all been through a truly horrific experience.”

The next slides show the baselines; mostly social media or medical photos. Every single baseline shares one thing in common; they are all heavily pregnant, clearly near the end of their terms. The after was far more clinical, and each stomach that was once round with child now laid flat and empty. The only evidence on the outside of the previous state was a perfectly stitched scar. “We have reason to believe there are illegal experiments regarding Pregnant Baselines taking place at this location.” The coordinates flash up on screen.

“Your first priority; determine the fate of the missing offspring, extract any that remain alive. Second; capture the perpetrators alive so they may face judgement. Third; secure the scene and retrieve any and all documentation of their doings for evidence.” Horlux turns to the room. “Any questions?”

Claude hesitantly raises his hand. “I must ask, what Kind of experiments do we believe are being committed?”

Horlux seems to take a moment, seemingly debating what or how to explain. “All we know for certain is that our most recent victim was somehow taken and returned to her domicile without her nor her Astarte mate noticing. We have reason to believe some kind of sleeping or amnestic agent was used on both of them. When the baseline awoke she had no memory of the trip, and her child had been removed from her womb. Her mate rushed her to the hospital as soon as they awoke and discovered her state.”

Xerxes speaks next. “Do you think…the perpetrator is targeting humans…whose pregnancies are those…from Astartes?” His tone is clearly troubled. 

And Claude meanwhile is still boggled that such a thing is even possible. But putting that aside, it Is troubling. He may not be an apothecary but he knows Regular baselines can be fragile. Those that are pregnant or freshly born are even more so! 

Horlux nods. “Indeed, which is why we cannot wait any longer. The most recent victim was a few days ago. Our Hydra sector and Apothecary Sargent Medeathe here have been instrumental in gathering information and scoping out possible holding locations. But now it's time for your Night Lords to do what they do best.” Horlux says. “Get in under cover of darkness. Find the missing offspring. And drag the offender or offenders back here to face punishment.”

“Sir yes sir!” The Claw replies. 

Horlux turns to Xerxes. “You will be using your little friends to provide further reconnaissance.”

“With Pleasure.” Xerxes replies, bringing some of his little pets to play and walk over his hand. Medeathe can't seem to stop himself from physically recoiling at the sight, even if the movement is slight. 

Khopesh lets his teeth show. “Not a fan of bugs ey Sargent?”

Medeathe huffs. “Not a fan of…strange insects.”

Strange…aka Chaos. And again Khopesh narrows his eyes. He's worked with skittish Loyalists before, so he'll put up with this. The sooner this gets done, the sooner he returns to you. 

Claude speaks up. “I…can't say I disagree. They also ah…trouble me a bit.” 

The statement actually causes Medeathe to laugh a little. “Well, at least one of your lot has some Sense here.” 

As the squad turns to leave for their mission, Khopesh catches Xerxes's attention and pulls him to the side. 

“Forgive me for delaying our mission, but this is the first time I have been away from Lullaby for an extended period.” Khopesh says quickly and quietly. “Has there been any change in the…”

Xerxes smiles reassuringly…as reassuring as a half rotted face can be. “There has been…no movement…of my pets Nor the…Interloper. Be…at ease…” 

Khopesh feels that knot of tension in his gut unwind. He's grateful for that. “Thank you Cousin. I know you said the same when I'd first asked but I still find myself troubled by the vision.”

Xerxes nods in understanding. “It is…only natural…to be so concerned with one's…life mate.”

Khopesh nods. “Still Thank You.”

Xerxes waves his hand. “Let us save thanks…for later…for now…” His eyes and voice become deathly serious. “We have a mission to complete.”

…

Location: Warehouse 

Time: 11:47 pm

The group stays in the trees at the perimeter of the structure, from the outside it looks very innocuous, but Night Lords know that such places are Perfect for traps.

“Gather round,” Anrir pulls out the building plans for the warehouse, the Hydra Sector Horlux spoke of had clearly done some digging into mortal building records to find this. Rooms, doors, walls all labeled with letters so they could be identified. 

But they know that This is the building as it was during its first construction. There's no telling what could be swapped or changed on the inside. 

“Alright, Xerxes you're up.” Anrir prompts and the Death Guard does as he's instructed. 

“Go…lend me…your sight…” He breathes, and his wasps go on their way. The warehouse is surprisingly insulated against the weather, but Xerxes wasps are specialists in getting through small spaces. 

“Hrm…it is…very dark. But my pets…can see….ah…tricky tricky…” Xerxes breathes. “The inside layout…is mostly the same. Some new walls…have been erected…here…here…and here…” He marks them on his map, and Khopesh notes how the routes from the entrance split in two directions. 

“Looks like we'll need to split into groups of two to sweep the place.” Ghosk grunts. 

“Not yet, Xerxes,” Anrir prompts. “What do you see?”

Xerxes focuses again, and his expression morphs into slight frustration. “Hrm…it seems that…there are certain rooms…my pets cannot enter. There is…interference…”

“Interference how?” Karlsor asks. 

“Hrm…my pets…are sensitive to…vibrations. Differences in air pressure…and sound waves…can make their vision and flight…more difficult. Certain rooms…seem to have those frequencies…emanating from within…”

“So there's some kind of device or system we need to dismantle then?” Medeathe asks. 

Xerxes nods, and he seems troubled. “It would seem…so…”

Anrir speaks next. “Any life signs otherwise?”

Xerxes answers. “No. All the places…my pets can see…are uninhabited…and look as if they have been so…for a looong time…no traps that they can sense or see.”

“Very well.” Anrir nods. “We can assume that if the missing offspring And the perpetrators are anywhere, they are within one or more of those shielded rooms. They are our first priority, therefore, our breach Must allow us to sweep and secure those, as well as blocking off the exits for any potential hostiles.” He points to the map. 

“Xerxes will remain outside so he may focus on relaying what his sentries see to us over vox. Ghosk and Karlsor take the rear exit. Khopesh and Myself the route that goes right. Claude and Medeathe the route that goes left, any questions?” 

Khopesh almost protests, if anything Claude should be paired with one of them. 

“No fa- I mean…Anrir. We are ready when you are.” Claude nods, seemingly having no problem with the orders. So again, Khopesh holds his tongue. Anrir nods. “Very good. Everyone to your positions, and on my signal, we breach.”

…

Claude, Medeathe, Anrir and Khopesh creep up to the building's main entrance, while Karlsor and Ghosk make their way to the back.  

“Karlsor, Ghosk, are you ready?”

“Ready on your signal Anrir.”

“Good, on my ‘go’ 3…”

Claude readies himself, right behind Medeathe who will be leading. 

“2…” 

Khopesh flexes his claws, he'll be busting down the door and the others will follow after before the split. 

“1-GO!”

A flurry of movement breaks out and a CRASH is unleashed as Khopesh kicks the flimsy door open. Their thundering foot falls seem to make the walls shake as they flow into the building.

Claude and Medeathe as planned go left, down a hallway with their bolters drawn they come to another fork. Claude takes a half second to recall the map, and the direction to the shielded room on this side of the building. 

“It was a right turn. Keep up Scout!” Medeathe grunts, barely giving Claude a chance to cover the other side of the hallway as he moves. 

They come to the locked door of the shielded room and Claude prepares to set the charge to blow the lock off. Any Space Marine could kick the door down, but that would leave the breacher vulnerable to counterattack by those inside the room. A detonation will open the door and hopefully stun any hostiles inside so they can neutralize them. 

“Wait!” Medeathe hisses. “Let me,” He pushes past, and brings out his own detonation charge. “If the infants are inside, we can't risk using a full charge.”

Claude nods, of course of course. He takes position to the side of the door. 

BANG! 

The charge still blows the door back, but not off its hinges and Claude and Medeathe surge inside, bolters drawn. Claude looks left, then right, checking all corners and possible attack points before lowering his weapon with a “Clear.”

And now that his focus is off of checking every corner for hostiles, he truly takes in the room before him. It is Much more clean and inhabited than the rest of the warehouse. In fact it’s covered floor to ceiling in medical machinery. 

And filled with tiny fragile humans inside that machinery. Almost like…a nursery. 

He's…he's heard of these types of machines. They're called…Incubators. And though small…the little ones inside Seem to all be breathing. Some are completely baseline in appearance and others have horns or teeth, longer claws, pitch dark eyes. There are clearly a number of different hybrids here from all kinds of Astartes here. 

But…there's still something wrong with them. In spite of the loud entry they're…they're all so quiet and…Some of them have surgery marks others have… metal body parts.

“Augmentation…” Claude whispers with a strange horror in his voice. They've clearly been augmented. Claude isn't sure why he feels so upset, he was given his first augment as a young child. 

Yes, when he was around ten! These are neonates or barely any older!

“It's fascinating,” Medeathe breathes in awe. “To think someone could construct a facility of This level in an abandoned warehouse.”

Claude doesn't really like the…reverence in his tone, but he can't deny the statement rings true. He chocks it up to Medeathe's specialty being in neonatal care. “I suppose. Now we need to report the location.” Claude hurriedly types on his vox. 

“Anrir, come in Anrir, we have located the missing offspring. We're in sector X of the building…there appear to be about twenty incubators.”

-Bzzt "Message received, we will proceed to your location. Are any of the little ones injured?”

Claude swallows the lump in his throat and answers. “All have life signs, but they're all…all of them have evidence of augmentation…and they are all currently inside incubators with locks and hooked up to various tubes…I'm not sure how to remove them.”

“Medeathe should know how to remove them while keeping them stable. Follow his orders until we can reach you.”

“Wilco.”

Medeathe looks over the room. “Seems almost a shame to dismantle this…” He sighs. 

Claude pushes the same discomfort as before aside and shrugs. “Well, the medical equipment can be salvaged…and it'll do more good in a hospital than here.” He peaks into the incubator he's standing in front of as Medeathe busies himself with the mechanics of how to transport the infants. 

The little one inside is soooo small, pudgy and soft looking, and an odd part of Claude's heart wants to hold them. He thinks this little one is female but he's not one hundred percent sure. But he cannot remove them yet, so he moves to place his hand to the glass where hers is. 

“Ah Ah Ah! Don't…do that.” Medeathe grunts. “This little Night Lord has a touch of psychery. You might startle her.”

Claude pulls back. “Oh right…I wouldn't want to-”

Time stops, just for a moment. 

“Sargent Medeathe…” Claude's tone is a question, but it is laced with…fear. The Sargent's hands stop moving. “How did you know this little one is a Night Lord spawn?”

“I ah…I saw her eyes. She opened them when you weren't looking.” He replies. 

Claude feels heat pool under his skin, rage…and disbelief. “You could've said she was a Raven Guard or even a Carcharodon, but…you also said she has psyker capabilities.” He mumbles. “But you're Not a psyker, there's no way you could know that unless…”

Suddenly his mind goes back to the breach…how Medeathe seemed to know the Exact way to go. How He was the one to set the charge before Claude breached this room. 

Even his odd stare when Xerxes had shown his newborn. Claude felt his skin crawl. 

“Oh Little Primaris…” Medeathe soft voice speaks, almost like that calm disappointment parents would show children when they've seen something they shouldn't. 

Claude whips his bolter out and trains it on the Ultramarine. But rather than jumping to attack him, the Ultramarine regards him with a calm…almost Fond look. It makes Claude want to vomit. 

“Halt!” Claude snarls, training his bolter. “You are under arrest.”

The Ultramarine tilts his head. “Under whose jurisdiction?”

“The Alliance.” Claude states. “You will be taken to stand trial for your crimes-”

“Ah yes!” Medeathe nods astutely. “The Alliance, full of Traitors…and Heretics…and Deserters-Tell Me, why does a Loyalist son of Corax himself, take orders from a Chaos inclined Night Lord?”

Claude hesitates. “Anrir is Not Chaos.”

“But your other Brother is…the one with a set of throne damned Bat Wings who made a mess of my front door.” He replies. “The other one with the foul mouth may not look it, but I can sense the Stink of that rotten warp corruption upon him…” He steps carefully around Claude who still has his bolter trained on him. 

For a moment Claude thinks to shoot the bastard dead, until he sees something move on the ceiling behind Medeathe. Instinctively, he knows who the dark shape is, and what it's signing. 

Can't shoot in here. Risk to babies. Keep him talking. 

So he allows Medeathe to keep talking. 

“And as for your…Anrir, he's a Traitor to the Imperium. All of his wretched ilk are.” Medeathe swears. “Even back in their ‘loyal’ times; nothing but a bunch of savage skin peelers looking to sow fear and get their fill of torture.”

The hypocrisy sets Claude off. “And what does that make you then!?” Claude snarls. “Look where you're standing, look at what you've done to these little ones and their families!” Claude gestures to the room of infants too young to be parted from their parents. “DON'T moralize to Me about torture, the torture you've put those human baselines and their mate's through by Stealing their children from their wombs is worse than anything the Nightlord's could do!”

The dark shape is almost in position now, but Claude is truly having to hold himself back from killing Medeathe outright. 

The Apothecary’s response is chilling, Claude can Feel the smile behind the helmet. “I am only continuing the good work I did before. The Imperium will need more Neophytes, more serfs, and of course…more servitors. It is only natural to pick from hybrids as they have an even better chance of surviving the process.” He gently places his hand on Claude's bolter. Claude allows him to move the gun down. 

He gestures to the cradle in front of Claude. The tiny female baseline with brown skin and fully pitch black eyes stares back. “And as for the spawns of Traitors like This little Night Lord, they will Finally have a chance at redemption.” Medeathe turns to the Raven Guard. “That's what you want too, isn't it?” 

Claude forces himself to not recoil as Medeathe reaches a hand out to gently touch his face. “Don't you want what you were promised…to serve the Imperium and Atone for the sins of your blood?” Medeathe breathes, thinking he's got the Primaris right where he wants him. 

That does catch Claude off guard. “How d-did you?”

“How did I know you have Traitor's blood?” Medeathe coos. “Oh dear child, it's written all over your face. And come now…why else would those wretched traitors tolerate an abomination like you?”

And all at once, the spell passes. Claude nods jerkily and almost…laughs. “Of course…”

“See, I told you you'd see sense.”

“No I mean of course you'd say something that's absolutely fucking HORSESHIT!” The laugh turns into a snarl as he slams his fist straight into Medeathe's helmeted face. The Ultramarine reels and falls back a few steps. 

“You wretched little Traitor bastard!” He curses and reaches for his own bolter. 

“Ah Ah AH!” Khopesh chimes gleefully, dropping from the ceiling and literally swiping the side arm away with a slash of his Lighting Claws. Before delivering a sharp kick to Medeathe's gut, sending him back to Claude. 

“You don't know ANYTHING!” Claude snarls, landing another devastating punch. “You don't Know ANYTHING! ABOUT! MY! FAMILY!” Claude locks in, just as he had the Last time he faced a bully, and starts beating the blue off Medeathe.  

“Not so much fun to be the one caught between, Is it Ultramarine!?” Khopesh snarls as he and Claude literally volly the apothecary back and forth as he fruitlessly tries to escape. 

“N-no!” The Ultramarine is beaten to the ground and tries to drag himself to his sidearm. 

CRUNCH! “ARGHGAAAAH!” 

“Ooops~” Khopesh chimes with sadistic glee as his armored boot Crushes the Ultramarine's wandering hand. 

Claude drags Medeathe back and locks his arms around the apothecary's neck. He tightens down and the Apothecary begins to lose consciousness. 

“You,” Claude huffs, his breathing is labored. “Are Under Arrest! You will be Tried! And you will ANSWER! FOR YOUR CRIMES!” The Apothecary struggles in his grasp before he goes limp, but Claude waits a few agonizing extra moments to make sure he is well and Truly out. 

Then he slaps on the Astarte grade restraints but as he does Claude is breathing hard, almost hyperventilating. He can barely hear Khopesh as he talks until…

“Claude…CLAUDE?!” Khopesh gently takes Claude by the shoulder. “You alright Claude?”

Claude feels his veins ice over. “They're all so small…” The little ones, taken from their mother's too soon. All in the hopes of What!? Making more neophytes!? Kidnapping and traumatizing and butchering mothers and children with metal and organ augments!? Even if it were possible to make Space Marines on Terra as the Imperium had, the children hybrid or not deserved a Choice on what they'd become. 

“Hey Hey! Look at me!” Khopesh snarls. “We Saved these little ones, and who knows how many more pregnant baselines?”

Claude nods, shakily, but he does. 

“Without you, they'd still be in Danger and that!” He points to Medeathe's unconscious body. “Fucking bastard, might be free to try again!”

“That's true.”

Khopesh smiles. “Of course I'm right. And now we need to focus on moving these little mites and getting them back to their families.”

“Well said Khopesh.” 

Claude and Khopesh turn and see Anrir and the other Night Lords filing in. 

“Father!” Claude, much like a child himself, feels so relieved to see his family. 

“Good to see you Anrir.” Khopesh greets. “We'll certainly need your expertise since the other apothecary is…” He glances to the unconscious Ultramarine, still held in restraints. “Out of commission.”

Anrir nods. “I assume there is a good reason for this.” 

Khopesh smiles wide. “You might need a Special Cell for this one.” Khopesh pulls out the recording he'd taken while Medeathe was rambling. 

Anrir's expression morphs subtly, and Khopesh gets Excited. Anrir is disgusted. Karlsor picks that up as well. 

“Ho ho ho, looks like we'll get to have a fuckin Party once we get this fucker back to base.” 

Anrir nods. “Yes…I think we shall.” He then sends a copy of the log to Horlux and Xerxes. With the additional message for Xerxes to receive Medeathe into custody. By which he means Ghosk and Karlsor haul (drag) the bastard outside so Xerxes can keep his and his pets eyes on him till he awakens. 

The elder Night Lord moves along the incubators, examining them and the infants inside. “The air inside these is laced with a sleeping agent. Not enough to be deadly, but enough to keep the little ones drowsy and quiet though I wouldn't be surprised if this room was also sound proofed…” Anrir grimaces, and he recognizes the IVs. “And they're hooked up to nutrient drips, and waste disposal tubes. The fool couldn't even be bothered to feed or change them by hand. Idiot.” Anrir growls. 

Khopesh feels his excitement Skyrocket. Not about the infants’ situation, fuck no this room makes him so angry it hurts. But Anrir being this angry means the retribution will be Slow and Aaaagonizing. 

Exactly! The kind he relishes, and the kind this misbegotten bastard deserves. 

“Our play time will have to wait, Khopesh, there is still much to do here.” Anrir points out. “Not only securing safe transport for these little ones, but turning this building upside down to ensure all relevant evidence is collected and no…unwanted surprises assail us. Oh come now…”

Anrir coos as one of the little ones begins to cry in their pod. Perhaps the gaseous agent that kept them calm is running out. He reaches one ancient hand to the little one and lays it against the glass. 

The little Night Lord gurgles, and puts her hand up against his, babbling with interest at this new face that she may or may not be able to see. “There now, isn't that better. Shhh…”

“Brrr-agalb-lphht.” The baby says in response, but she is calm now and Claude feels a more proper relief flow over him. 

Khopesh puts his hand on his younger brother's shoulder. “Well done Claudy, well done.”

Claude nods, and even blinks a bit. He Actually feels a bit of wetness coming to his eyes. They're happy tears, but still he wipes them away quickly. 

“Thanks…but we've got more work to do.” 

…

1 Day Post Mission

The Claw walks throughout the rest of the compound, their sweep after showing that the other shielded rooms held medical supplies, and documentation of the…experiments Medeathe was conducting. 

“I suppose he's lucky none of the little ones passed from this.” Ghosk sighs, thinking about the cluster fuck the Apothecaries had experienced moving all the offspring from their ‘nursery’ to the neonatal care unit at the nearby Steelix Base. 

Khopesh's grin splits open. “Not like it matters, he's a dead man regardless.”

Anrir nods as he gathers the documentation. “Too true. At the very least he was smart enough to not sign his name on these pages.” 

“But Not fuckin smart enough to realize that stealing offspring would land him where he is now.” Karlsor remarks. 

“To think a Son of Gulliman would fall so far.” Claude ponders. 

“Evil doesn't have a legion color, Claude.” Anrir hums, taking a moment to read over the medical study's findings. 

“And neither does Crazy.” Khopesh adds. 

2 Days Post Mission 

“We've cleared the entire structure Anrir.” Claude reports proudly, he's also holding a number of different documents. 

“Claudy found the last of the papers. Sniffed em out, through a wall.” Khopesh announces, also with pride. “Yeeesh, these are more…personal.”

Anrir cocks an eyebrow, somewhat unimpressed. Not by the find but what he imagines the pages entail. “Let me guess. ‘No one understands what I'm doing.’ ‘I am the only one who can lead us into the future.’ ‘Everyone else are Fools and will quake when I am finally allowed to put the brilliance of my research into the sunlight?’”

“Yep, pretty much.” Khopesh shrugs. 

“Eh seen one evil scientist motherfucker seen em all.” Karlsor huffs, and casts a pointed look at Anrir. 

Anrir is not amused. “Get back to work.”

…

3 Days Post Mission at the Steelix Base Neonatal Care Facility.

The Claw waits with varying levels of boredom or anxiety. Things have been wrapped up, the Warehouse is fully cleared, Medeathe is set for transport, everything is Done.

So whyyyyy are they stuck here!? Khopesh groans, mentally of course. Most of his energy comes from Desperately wanting to see you again. Oh he's missed your sweet voice and your warmth and your nest…

Karlsor is like Khopesh but not Quite as intense. Really his annoyance is being amplified by Khopesh's fidgeting, and that base annoyance comes from wanting to go home to his Sunshine. He can't act out directly so he settles for directing a Very low frequency growl at Khopesh to tell him to Stop Moving Dammit!

Ghosk is old and tired and annoyed and wants to pull his Rabbit into bed the Second he sees her. And he's mutually being annoyed by Khopesh fidgeting And Karlsor's noises. But he's better at tuning them out…

“Mother fucker I SWEAR if you don't hold fucking STILL!” Karlsor hisses, as Khopesh's leg keeps twitching. 

For the most part…

“Hush.” 

And immediately the line of Night Lords fall into order at the sound of their apothecary's voice. He'd been pulled into some kind of meeting, why they decided to have it here they have no clue. 

Luckily, Anrir explains. “It seems we are finally set to be dismissed from further duties related to this case.”

““Thank Fuck.”” Ghosk and Karlsor sigh in unison. ““Oh fuck. Fucking stop it motherfucker!” Claude and Khopesh can't help but snicker. “”The fuck are you fucking laughing at!?”

“Language!” Anrir chastises. Ghosk rolls his eyes, while Karlsor bites his tongue. “There is one last matter to handle.” Before the Claw can complain, Anrir continues. “One of our Legion Brothers wanted to thank us personally for our aid.”

A Legion brother? 

And indeed, through the same door as Anrir came an Astarte and a Baseline. The Night Lord has a dark Mohawk that sweeps down his neck and short buzzed sides. The human baseline has dark skin with a warm undertone, and her hair is done up with an elegant headscarf.

In her arms she holds a tiny bundle, with a face. 

“Is that…?” Claude asks as the woman and her mate approach. The Night Lord is on guard, even anxious with what has happened, but he knows this place is safe. 

And that he has these Battle Brothers to thank for the return of his little one. 

“I am Siros,” The Nightlord greets, “Nightlord Chaplain and this, is my bonded.” He has his arm wrapped sweetly around his mate. 

“My name is Folake, and before we…we leave to take her home I just…” Folake begins to tear up, but she forces herself to finish. “I just wanted…wanted to say Thank You.” 

She gently rocks the child in her arms. The little Night Lord with brown skin and her father's dark eyes. Claude smiles as he remembers her past form, and how much more peaceful she looks, free of that awful machinery. 

“Have you chosen a name yet?” Khopesh asks, also looking at the little one. He agrees, she looks much healthier. 

“Not yet…” Folake admits. “After everything that has happened…my Husband and I have been so caught up in just having her back, we haven't had time to think about it.”

The little one's eyes suddenly open, and she sees Claude. He's not sure if she recognizes him but she giggles and makes those silly noises again. 

“Abbabbab-plllthth-brrr..” Then she breaks into another giggling fit. Her mother actually cries on the spot and Siros can't seem to help but pull his family close and purr. 

“Your father has told me…that it was You that stopped him. The man who…who stole my daughter.” Folake says, once she's wiped the tears away. “So he couldn't hurt anyone else. Could you please, tell me your name?”

Claude blushes. “Ah well…It wasn't just me. My older brother Khopesh is the one who helped me take him into custody. And All of my brothers made the mission possible.” He explains, nervously. “My name is Claude.”

Folake seems to think for a moment. “Claude…Claude…Claudette!” 

“Brabblpthft!” The baby babbles happily  in response and her mother beams. 

“Do you like that? Do you like that name, my sweet child?” She nuzzles her baby, then turns to her mate. “What do you think, Siros?”

Siros reaches down a huge pale hand and tickles his little one, causing her to try and nibble his hand. He smiles a wonderfully soft smile. “I think it is a fitting name.”

Claude feels a variety of emotions but mostly overwhelmed, happy and a tad embarrassed. “Ah…thank you! Truly! It's an honor.”

Siros nods, then turns to Anrir and says something in Nostraman. “I appreciate your invitation, but I will need some time to spend with my family.”

Anrir smiles and responds in the same language. “He's not going anywhere, I'm happy to hold him until you have a chance to…visit.”

Siros smiles, and it is indeed a proper Nightlord smile. But then he turns back to his love. “Come my darling. Let us take our little Night Lord home.”

With that the family departs. 

Claude stands there for a moment slightly stunned. Well…it's not everyday you get a child named after you. But at the same time there's a…warmth he feels. 

Anrir takes notice and gently places a hand on his shoulder. “You have done well, my son.” Anrir's expression falls to become more somber. “But you must understand, not all of our missions will end so happily. This is the risk we undertake, even here where there is so much less conflict. It is not just a risk to our bodies, but to our hearts and minds as well. Do you understand?”

Claude nods. “I do father.”

Anrir nods in approval. “Good, now…let us go Home.”

“Fucking FINALLY!”

“Language Karlsor!”

…

Last stop before he's finally, FINALLY clear to call you, is a final debriefing at the Rot Bone Base. 

Captain Horlux addresses all of them. “Well done. Your performance on this recent mission was exemplary. Not only were all the pilfered offspring returned, but the perpetrator was brought to face justice.” A troubled look passes across the Black Legionnaire's face. “Medeathe was one of the Alliance's most expert apothecaries, especially in the area of hybrid deliveries. To lose that is a blow, but we will recover.”

“Hopefully his research notes can provide us some aid in training other apothecaries.” Anrir hums. “However mad he may be, the fact he was able to set up an entire nursery and keep all the infants from dying is testament to his skills.”

Claude doesn't like the comments about Medeathe, but again, they are technically correct. 

Horlux grunts, before picking up another sheaf of papers. “The only question that remains is How the bastard managed to abscond with all that medical equipment and supplies.”

Anrir agrees. “True, we'll have to keep him alive until we can ascertain if he was operating alone. It is not infeasible that Medeathe could have falsified the supply documents and removed or collected items over a longer period of time to build his lab. But it's just as plausible that he could have done so with outside help.”

Horlux nods. “He'll be turned into your custody for interrogation. I'll send the order now, and it should be processed in about a day.” The old marine huffs as he goes over the mountain of paperwork in front of him. 

“My condolences.” Anrir jokes, but the sentiment is genuine. 

“Yeah yeah, go on. You and your Claw are dismissed for now.” Horlux waves his hand. “But remember! Keep the bastard Alive until we can get that information out of him.”

Anrir salutes, and he and the Claw turn to leave. Claude notices Khopesh typing a message on his vox. 

“Trying to contact Lullaby?” He asks with a smile. 

Khopesh nods quickly. “Yep yes yes Yep, that last meeting was driving me Insane, but now we're dismissed and I can Finally contact them.”

Khopesh 🦇💙: Lullaby! I cannot wait to see you and hold you and LOVE you! When I see you I will pull you into my arms and not let go until the Sun Rises! 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Awe Babe!❤❤ That's so sweet! 

But you know I'm just in the bathroom. You don't need to text me from the living room. 

Khopesh 🦇💙 :Lullaby…what are you talking about? I am not in the living room, I am at the Rot Bone Base. I've only just been debriefed and released from my mission. 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Wait, then…who's here with me right now?

Khopesh's blood runs cold. His pace had turned from a swift walk to a run to full on sprint. Claude had kept pace as he noticed Khopesh's mood change from excited to fearful. 

“What's going on?” Claude asks as the two run through the base and outside. 

Khopesh 🦇💙: Do not panic. Stay in the bathroom and make an excuse like you're having stomach issues. Try to sneak out the window. 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Okay. I love you. Please hurry!

Khopesh🦇💙: ❤

“There's a fucking Hydra in my Nest!” Khopesh snarls with Claude close behind. 

A soon to be very Dead, very Flayed Hydra. And if Anything happens to his Lullaby there won't be a single power on this world or any other that will be able to stop his wrath!

[kit-williams]

Hear me out… The boys with the Pheromone perfume/spray.

Congrats on this being the catalyst for something...

·̩̩̥͙＊•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙˚˚•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙˚＊·̩̩̥͙GLORIOUS·̩̩̥͙＊•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙˚˚•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙˚＊·̩̩̥͙

tw: Dubious consent/dubcon... noncon elements; predator/prey dynamics; breeding kinks; warhammer 40k shenanigains/Yandere shenanigains

(NOTE: Raven Guard will have the group reactions and then reactions if Dove was only with one of the boys at the time of applying it. How she got the perfume is the same)

Tag List: @bispecsual @egrets-not-regrets @moodymisty @bleedingichorhearts @liar-anubiass-blog @thevoidscreams @barn-anon

Raven Guard Trio

Kazi preened under the praise from the people as they liberated another major city causing more and more uproar and getting forces on their side. But he smelt something funny... but funny in a good way it made his brain itch in a way he didn't know why. He followed his nose as his brothers delt with the important stuff he could just say he was following a lead... not exactly a lie. Till he looked at the bottle that lead him there.

"Say what is this?" He asked knowing there was an associate not too far.

"Um that's a pheromone perfume." They said meekly with a blush on their face...

"Smells nice... how much?" Kazi grinned at the mortal.

----

Dove looked at the gift in hand as Sor and Moremo frowned at Kazi for bringing their Dove such an expensive gift and they full well knowing he probably paid next to nothing for.

"Thank you Kazi!" Dove said and her eyes widened at the pretty perfume bottle not waiting a second before putting it on. "Bit of a muted smell." She says as she applies it to her wrists before putting it on her neck.

"Ah was told its some pheromone perfume."

Dove snorted of course he would get this, "That's just some fancy thing that they try to sell you that they say will make men go mad because of some scents they put into the... why are you boys looking at me like that..." Dove stopped as all three of them looked down at her.

"You smell so lovely, Dove." Moremo growled softly.

Sor's fingers were flexing as he had taken off his helmet to at least smell the perfume to tell her it was lovely. He knew that there were few smells that could affect an Astartis... this wasn't one of them but it seemed to just heighten her natural scent.

Kazi took a step forward before Moremo's hand shot out gripping his armor... "not here... in the roost... now." He told Kazi who was just looking at Dove with something akin to a meal. Sor scooped her up and buried his face into her neck as they walked to the nest.

Sor's breath was hot and heavy in her ear... "If I could... I'd steal you away right now." That was a threat that Dove knew he would make good on if he could.

"I... I can wash it off." Dove chirped softly but it was far too late for her as the door locked behind Moremo. Sor kissed her hard as the other two took off their armor. Sor said something in high gothic as Kazi fumbled with his codpiece for him. "Guys?" She whimpered softly as Sor twitches violently trying to not crush her on accident.

"Gentle Gentle lad." Moremo groaned trying to keep some composure amongst them as it was all going to be willpower based on if Sor would actually leave after he had his fun or start to rip off his armor.

Sor

Kazi and Moremo were busy to indulge in the gift that Kazi had gotten you and you wanted to know how it smelled... he assumed it smelt fine if you were wearing it but he wasn't one to turn you away. Something tickled something in his brain as he looked down at you just smelling the air around you. You offered your wrist to him to smell as you laugh at the thought of pheromone perfume actually working.

Yes... it was quite funny... if it wasn't sending heat down to his loins. The pheromones were doing their job but that wasn't what was sending the blazing heat... it was your natural smell... clean feathers... mixed with some gunpowder... the smell of that pastry you love to have each morning... the smell of you. You tilted your head in that adorable way as he buried his nose into your wrist before licking your palm... his body hot as his black eyes looked around before picking you up and just dashing off into the night.

He's been waiting to have his chance to find some place to tuck you away... to show you how much he loves you. The way his mouth licks at your own and over your skin as he removes his armor in this hidden little roost away from his bothers... to finally have you all to himself without Moremo's gentle reminders... or Kazi's overeagerness and trying to take his turn while he was still loving you...

No it was just you and Sor tonight. And he was going to make sure you were loved all night long. He hardly could wait to be upon you and you hardly worried about the utter tizzy that the other two would be in... it was just you... Sor... with a night filled with the creaking of the bed and the slapping of flesh against flesh.

Moremo

He was always able to make sure there was time for you it was rare that Kazi was busy as he was the one who got you this gift but you wanted to try it on so badly. See if there was any credence to the sexual wonders of pheromone perfume. You both were laughing as you explained to him how it was just a rumor that's been perpetuated forever and how it would affect astartes more. He laughed dismissing it as he smelt it before it was on you...

However once the pheromones mingled with your delicious scent... he felt his loins stir. He could ignore it until later... until the others got to experience this with their sweet Dove. But... when was the last time he was selfish with their darling? Oh... not since their last Dove. How she looked up at him with a nearly naive gaze yet she could tell there was something different. A desire that burned through him... "Little Dove..."

"Yes Moremo?" She said softly.

He opened and closed his mouth trying to find the right words but all he could do was put a hand on her back and guide her to the nest. He locked the door before pushing her up to the door and kissing her hard. Feeling her fingers run through his silvering raven black hair... his black eyes roaming over her skin. "You smell amazing." He moaned into her neck... inhaling deeply as he tries to think of some romantic words to tell her... instead he feels like Kazi being eager to feel her wrapped around his cock. "Undress and get on the bed... your perfume seems to be having its... intended effect."

He licked his lips as she obeyed and with that mischief in her eyes as she wiggled her hips back up at him as he stroked his own cock, having been in more relaxed clothes for one verses his armor. He did his best to prepare her but given how often Kazi bragged about how well he slid in with minimal prep he put it to the test. Hearing their dove gasp as he slowly bottomed out was worth the waiting for a moment before he really fucked her ignoring the way Kazi on the other side of the door was upset about how he was hogging their Dove all to himself until late into the night.

Kazi

He was so excited for Dove to put on his gift. He watched her raise an eyebrow reading what it was. "Kazi I hardly think I need this to get you... going?"

"Aww but its just a bit of fun to have. Just try it on." He encouraged watching her spray her wrists before rubbing it over her neck and just offering a wrist for him to smell. But of course Kazi takes the chance to bury his face into her neck. His long black hair tickling her flesh but there was a desire that rushed down his spine right to his cock.

"Yeah like how most of these products are... they don't really work." Dove says rolling her eyes turning away not seeing the way his breath deepens as he follows her.

"Really? Shame... right? So why do they market it like that?" He says doing his best to keep his voice steady and calm.

"Oh its just suppose to be something to rile men up. Some men can smell it somewhat but there's nothing proving that it riles them up. Just something to charge people extra money for it." Dove says putting it down in the bathroom in the roost room not hearing the way Kazi locks the door behind him.

Dove finally walks out looking at Kazi seemingly taking a moment to see that he had a devilish smile on his lips and a tent in his trousers.

"I think it works on me little Dove." He purrs out.

Palion

He was the one who bought his Muse the Pheromone body lotion. Palion was upfront about what it was and what it would do to him... he got it for her as well as something horribly skimpy for a Slaanesh celebration; of course she did not wear it. Palion was at some celebration with his brothers... pouting as his Muse was having one of her days and he snarled at his younger brother who told him to drag her anyway.

Fool didn't know what was good... fool was still far to busy being selfish and chasing his own highs and pleasured exaltations. He still didn't like this new addition to their group but he wasn't going to be a petty bitch and not give him a fair chance or else then their numbers would dwindle and it would be the same gossip every damn day.

Muse on the other hand looked at herself in the mirror all dolled up... she did her best not to look at how much exposed burn marks there were... so many outfits for her to pick from. She squirms as she looks at the pict capture location... the delicate gold chains make their noise as she crawls into the nest on his bed. She used that lotion he got for her...

His eyes glanced over to the text from his muse. What are you up to?

Bored. Just watching some celebration that I've seen a hundred times now. He tries to not sound too upset but he can't help it... he always gets into a foul mood without her around.

So you're not... busy?

Never for you my dearest. What is the matter?

Palion's eyes kept shifting over to the data pad as the longer she took to respond made him want to- Ping the datapad went and he half choked on his wine.

"Brother is there something wrong- Oh... oh my brother what a treat." His brother sitting next to him whispers seeing what she sent Palion.

Would... would you like to celebrate with me? Was the message title and the image was her laying in her nest... arms over her head with her legs partially spread as the thin sheer fabric hardly covered her cunt but Palion was focused on the wet spot causing the fabric to cling to her sex and press right against it. She adjusted the outfit so instead of her burns being covered they were fully exposed. Even the part of her face and head she was self conscious was uncovered, no mask in sight just her bare body on display for him. Palion was already at half mast during this whole performance but he was now painfully hard.

His brother next to him grinning like a cat in the cream. "Are you going to respond?" When Palion was still processing he stole the datapad from him and typed in yes as Palion's reply. "Mhm. There we go she should be waiting for you when you get there." He tucked the datapad away into a pocket somewhere on the tunic. When Palion stood he gave him a loud and firm smack on the ass, "Have fun! Praise Slaanesh!"

Once Palion was out of the room he ran to his own room and threw the door open causing his tiny Muse to jump as she looked at him rush into the room inhaling her scent like some feral beast. His bare chest expanding and contracting as all three of his lungs inflated and deflated as he could taste what the concoction was doing to him. "Praise Slaanesh." He moaned before locking the door as he pounced on his Muse with a snarl of delight.

She knew what she was getting into teasing and provoking Palion into action. But... she felt good today... she wanted to reward Palion for doing his best to help her. His long and sensual tongue pressed all corners of her mouth before snaking down her throat as he was working his second finger into her cunt. He was chanting lurid prayers to the dark prince as he was suddenly balls deep in his Muse. Her moans underneath him encouraging him to keep going as his mind was muddled from her sweet and lovely scent.

Arkyn

She couldn't be mad at Arkyn forever. She looks at the other wife who is just smiling warmly at her, "How do I..." She shifts feeling awkward to ask, "How do I... seduce him."

She could see the other woman grin, "Knowing the Captain? You hardly need to do a thing but I have a feeling you're wanting to do something special. For him right?" She nods slowly watching her walk into the quarters before she comes back with a bottle. "Sprits that on yourself and when you do don't leave the room."

"What is it?" She asked looking at it.

"Something that makes the men go wild. They've got sensitive noses you see... its just some scents mixed with the scent glands of a predator. Gets them all frisky... gets them feeling good."

"Um this isn't... forcing?"

"Honey I would laugh if I didn't think it would hurt your feelings." The woman says as a small blonde girl wearing furs rushes between her legs. "A space wolf made this. Its their best worst kept secret the fact that they made this stuff for their women to wear and to use. Always saying it was some wife that made it. Even if that's the truth they are always eager to have their ladies wear it. Remember to bring that back in a couple of days when you're done."

"Days?"

She just smiled leaving Elskling holding the bottle as she returns back to her shared quarters. Staring at the liquid inside frowning as she was upset at Arkyn denying her an honorable death with her comrades but... she sighs and sprays herself wrinkling her nose as it was slightly sharp smelling not a scent she would find pleasant but it wasn't for her.

Arkyn entered his quarters without much thought as the Captain took a deep breath washing away the worries of his station. His Parietal lobe itched as he smelt something new yet intimately familiar. His mind rushing back to memories of intimate encounters with mates past. Arkyn felt himself get hard so easily at that smell as he walked to the bedroom pulling off his clothes and leaving them in his wake... he was hard and throbbing and fully naked when he opened the bedroom door.... lucky for him so was his Elskling.

"Hello Captain Arkyn..." She says with that familiar purr that he remembers back from when he first bedded her. His throat tightens and his cock raises as it throbs. Her eyes darting to the subtle movement before meeting his own eyes.

He grins as he swaggers over to the bed rubbing her naked thigh, "I think I remember asking you this once before... are you sure you can handle this..." He clicks his tongue letting the moment drag on out, "wolf? I must say we get horribly attached after we mate." He repeats those familiar lines.

All she does is bring his hand against her cunt and just presses a finger in and moves it for him before he finally takes over. Her nails dig into his shoulders as his hips press to hers, she claws him as she feels the burn of him splitting her open. And Arkyn burns this new memory into his mind... how beautifully his Elskling writhes under him... how her lips open and the gasps. He still remembers when they first had sex... he still remembers each sigh and mewl from then and the way she does it now... he burns it all into his mind and there it will stay with him till he meets the Allfather.

Tyberos the red Wake

Ophelia was in the medical bay when she smelt something good. She was talking to the marine on duty about what it was and she didn't understand what he was explaining or what it was for or why it smelt like home. He was trying his best to explain it and cocked his head to the side at her simple request to wear it, confused Ophelia explained why she wanted it. He let her seeing no harm in it.

"Void Mother," another marine said walking in causing Ophelia to shift her weight at the title. It wasn't one Tyberos had given her but she should have seen it coming given he was called the Void Father.

"Yes?" She said softly trying to be polite.

"Tyberos wishes to speak with you."

It hardly was any other reason to go back into the den of the Chapter Master. There was no use running... no use hiding... but visits with Tyberos were cordial at best and terrorizing at worst given his size and how she felt so helpless in his grasp always folding to his demands but... maybe she would deny him today.

She didn't see the way eyes lingered on her or hear the way that some astartes that were around sniffed the air after her. She entered the dim room as he was at his desk signing approvals from captains and reviewing reports. It smelt very much of Tyberos in the room... and Ophelia felt... warm. Sure maybe the phase after her moon blood when she was fertile was a time that she did not mind Tyberos' company... it was often when she would spend several days in his bed before shame ate at her and guilt ate at him. He needed her it was clear... but she felt warm like after the moon blood. He had a heavy smell... a musky one with a spice added to it.

Tyberos opens his mouth to ask her... he just sees her standing there breathing heavily... flustered skin... and then he smells her and he starts to drool. The door locks behind her as Ophelia just feels the warmth travel to her crotch as she swallows spit as she turns away not hearing how the door locked but she hears the way his chair flings into the wall behind his desk. His rational and logical side of his mind tells him that he's under the effects of something... he needs to get her out of here... but by the Throne she smells so good.

Ophelia feels the air knocked out of her as she is pressed into the wall as his hips rut against the curve of her ass. He wants to mutter an apology but it dies in his mouth as Ophelia rolls her hips back against his... pressing firmly against his arousal. A bruising grip holds her hips as he ruts against her like some youngling, drool running down his neck dripping from the exposed parts of his molars, he tastes the air and he knows exactly what is effecting both of them... in reality it should only really be affecting Ophelia... but she smells so good.

"Tyberos please..." Ophelia whines feeling so empty, "I need you inside of me." She mewls out. Nipples rubbing against the fabric of her breast binding... her undergarments clinging to her entrance from how slick she has grown.

Fabric rips as her world spins and hot wet mouth muscles rub up against each other. Tyberos files away needing to see the brother apothecary to see if there is a new weakness... or if simply combining that combination of chemicals with her scent is what is doing it for him. Grey skinned hands grip handfuls of ass as her fingers pull on his white hair, he pulls back to exhale hard and even in this relatively lukewarm room... his breath can be seen.

"Tyberos." Ophelia whines feeling him hesitate for once... she's so use to him getting her into his bed quickly that it feels too long, "Tyberos... make me void mother."

If his eyes were not already fully black then he is certain they would be given how fast he rips through her clothes and his own clothes. His cock rubbing against her overly slick entrance before sliding in fully... he normally tires to be gentle but he hilts himself in the first thrust and bellows out his enjoyment.

She screams out her own enjoyment as she pushes her legs against his scarred and tattooed chest as he thrusts down hard and deep into her cunt. They make eye contact for this... something Ophelia hardly does but her eyes glaze over with pleasure... loosing their focus before she blinks and moans out. His eyes wander down to her breasts and perhaps his thrusts are a bit more vigorous then they need to be to watch them bounce and move. His saliva splashes down on her as he fucks her hard. His eyes roaming her body... his mind drawing the appropriate tattoos for her... for her station.

She falls over the edge first with a shriek of his name in such pleasure that it causes him to follow... but the effects still linger in her system as she pulls him into a kiss... his hands still roaming over her naked body... as they spend several hours properly getting to intimately know each other finally.

Ghosk

Was happy or at least as happy as an ancient Night Lord like himself could be with being apart of a warband of misfits run by a recently fallen to Chaos Space Wolf. By the Dark Gods the Imperium sounded like a nightmare compared to what it once was... he might not have followed his father into hell if he knew he was going to be alive to watch it turn into some carcass of what it once was. But certain things made it bearable like his Rabbit.

He opens an eye as she walks in and he opens his mouth to begin their usual bickering but he stops as all of his thoughts turns into blazing heat that rushes to his groin. It throws him off slightly... he's certainly fucked before... raped even though that was hardly his modus operandi. Oh yes call him old fashioned if he enjoyed not being wept at during sex... unless that was their kink then yes... but he was a cynical bastard but not cynical enough to act like a Slaaneshi.

"Smell. What's that smell." He says with his usual calm and disinterest as he tried to not palm his hardening cock through his cloth pants.

"Wow okay... spent time with Astrid she just let me put on some perfume she likes."

His tongue ran over his teeth as the warband's matron the space wolfs wife liked his bunny rabbit so his bullshit was tolerated because it all came back to protecting her from others. But by the dark gods she should have warned his bunny that her stuff was made for seducing a wolf...

"Rabbit." He growled out. His cock twitched at the fear mingling with her scent now as he felt his nails dig into the couch. "Wash it off if you don't want me." He said letting out a groan as Ghosk couldn't stop himself from palming his cock through his pants.

"What do you-" Was all she could get out before Ghosk was over her rutting his clothed cock against her own clothed form. He was panting like a dog at the feeling of relief... he hardly masterbated anymore as he was content with his bunny around but all of his neglected need rushed to attention pushing against her supple flesh.

"This is what I mean Rabbit." He snarled, "Tell me to stop." He looked down at her with some restraint... he wasn't a chaos riddled degenerate just a normal degenerate for a Night Lord but he was still himself... he could resist these basal urges.

He could see the gears turning in her little head before she looked up at him, "And... if I don't tell you to stop?" She said so very softly.

Ghosk stopped and was panting hard as his body trembled with utter excitement. He grabbed her and carried her outside as they were on a planet for some time. He put his bunny down. "You have 10 minutes. Run rabbit run." He growled watching her run as he sat in a crouched position feeling his muscles ache... his wings eager to spread out and take flight. But he waited... and waited... knowing and picturing in his minds eye her running in that fast sprint he's seen her do.

She sprinted as fast as she could doing bursts remembering some of her endurance training as it was only a matter of time...

Ghosk's black eyes snapped open as like a bow drawn he was released. All that was there where he knelt was disturbed dust and grass.

Rabbit had to stop and crouch in the woods. Trying to run from Ghosk in an open field was suicide but trying to run from Ghosk was stupid... trying to hide from him was stupid... so why was this so exciting. She and Ghosk had a comfortable relationship... insulting each other... she didn't know what he was getting out of it. The snapping of a twig nearly made her jump out of her skin as the 500+ pound man could be frighteningly silent when he wanted to be.

"Bunny." She heard his trilling graveling voice and she was off like a lazshot but that's clearly what he wanted.

She really hardly had a chance as out of the darkness of the canopy above dropped Ghosk grabbing her before she felt all of her guts rush to her feet. Oh by the God Emperor they were so high up... "Ghosk please not so high up!" She said with fear warbling through her voice.

Another time it would seem... but Ghosk landed before he tore at her clothes... his hard cock slapping against her wet folds before slipping in as she went cross-eyed at the intrusion into her sex. Ghosk moaned and came right then as he could hardly remember the last warm cunt he was in... the thrill of the hunt mixed with her smell. Oh he felt wonderfully pathetic in that moment as his toes uncurled when he was done cumming before he pulled back and moved.

"I'm going to fill my bunny rabbit up so good." He snarled down at the breathless bunny under him... her back arched as her hips were up and she was being such a good fuckable bunny. His balls brushing up against her skin as he moved... his wings fully outstretched and flapping as his grip was bruising... his bunny was screaming... just like how rabbits scream... but instead of writhing in pain and agony she was screaming in pleasure... writhing in enjoyment... pushing her hips back against his own... moaning his name.

He was a bastard chasing his high as he pulled her back onto his cock like some fleshlight... but she wasn't... she was his bunny. He flipped her over the slight twisting on his cock causing him to cum as he took that breather for a moment. Pushing her down onto the ground again crouched over her his wings hiding her from anyone else as he buried himself to the hilt for a few precious seconds and they both gasped at the depth of pleasure they could free.

"Bunny! Bunny! Bunny!" He chanted as his hips snapped to hers with eager restraint. One of his hands clawed the ground around one of her own... palms touching as the way her nails from her other hand clawed his arm as she screamed with pleasure under him. He felt so amazing... the way her willing body writhed under him... her hips desperate to meet his... he was suddenly very aware of her hands touching his skin. All Ghosk could do... say... and think was... "Bunny! Bunny! Bunny!"

She was a trembling sweating mess... the orgasms from both of them going uncounted as finally Ghosk felt his final climax take hold of him and he spread his wings fully out in all their terrible glory... undecorated for this moment but he snarled out her actual name as he came for the final time inside of her. His finally flaccid cock slipping from her thoroughly ruined cunt. His cunt. He mused looking at her laying there almost fully out of it... covered in dirt, cum, sweat, small cuts, bruises, and probably small creatures native to this planet. His Rabbit... He pulled her into a kiss as he purred out another bunny or two when she reciprocated.

Angelo

Vivienne knew her ways around functions... knew how to rile the lords up... rile them up into making deals with her. She of course used every trick in the book to get what she wanted. Get the trade deals in her favor as she sprayed the perfume on her. The thick makeup upon her face as she made sure she looked just right for this planetary governor's function. Of course she learned as much as she could... bit of a crude thing but nothing that a nice sinched waist and some cleavage couldn't help her with this.

Of course that's what she thought going into it. She grumbles coming back to her ship after a disaster of a party... she might as well have brought Angelo for companionship. No one fuckin told her he was gay. She would have made sure Seth was far more dressed up but Throne bless him he was able to use it as being "roguish" charms or something like that.

"Yes Seth you're getting paid extra for your contribution to that. Your usual seduction fee?"

"I want extra given how..." He grimaced.

Vivienne nodded and waved her hand, "Yes yes he wasn't your usual flavor I know but you saved this deal."

"Of course my Lady. Now if you excuse me I have a bottle of amesec and a bath calling me." He says splitting off heading to his quarters. As she walked to her own she could see Angelo was right there along with the door guards but they dismissed themselves after he entered the quarters behind her.

"He was fucking gay Angelo!" She says upset that she went through all this effort in getting ready for seduction and it all going to waste. She starts to undo her corset but the Blood Angel walks up behind her and somehow is so dexterous with such large hands.

"Would explain the lack of the scent of a paramour on you..." He leans in, "Though I could change that." He says nipping at her earlobe. She waves him away but his nose catching something delightfully mixing with her scent. "You do smell delightful though my Lady." His tongue runs over the artery in her neck before she pulls away to get out of the ridiculous outfit she put herself into. Angelo cares not for the maids that come in leaving a bottle of wine and two glasses... helping her fully undress and taking away the garment as she proceeds to wipe off that silly face paint.

"Lady Vivienne." Angelo finally asks as the maids leave.

"Yes Angelo?" She asks tiredly looking at him in the mirror.

She lets out the smallest gasp as with a blink he is already behind her his hands roaming over her naked, the robe barely clinging to her shoulders hardly counted as clothes to him, shoulders. "You do smell quite delightful... how about I make you feel so good."

She knew what he was refrencing... it was a silly joke from Rowena. A pheremone perfume with some exotic, probably xenos, ingredients that she claimed could work on any man... even a space marine. It had an innocuous smell to it and most men agreed she smelt nice but she was hardly expecting the throbbing against her back as his eyes were black as he panted hard just touching her body. His blonde hair tied back as his teeth looked... bigger to her and she swallowed softly.

Perhaps Rowena wasn't lying for once....

[badbitchstromboli]

coupla ghosks

[c-u-c-koo-4-40k]

12 Angry Space Marines or Lullaby's No Good Very Bad Only a Little Good Day - Part 1

First! A big thanks to @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan for helping write this beast of a piece. And to @sleepyfan-blog, @kit-williams and @egrets-not-regrets for use of their various characters.

Previous Chapter Here!

Next Chapter Under Construction Heeeere!

First in the entire series Here

Warning: Talks of violence, a very sore throat, threat of torture near mental breakdown and some mildly sexual talk.

Tags! I Hope you all enjoy!: @kit-williams @sleepyfan-blog @egrets-not-regrets @felinisnoctis @bispecsual

@passionofthesith @beckyninja @bleedingichorhearts @barn-anon @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan

@jaghatai-khock @virozero @angronsjewelbeetle

Summary:

Lullaby awakens alone, and injured. After everything that has happened the thing they want the least is to be alone. But try as they might they can't seem to get a message through to their loved ones. Meanwhile, the Scouts and the veteran Apothecaries get ready to take a vote on the fate of Stormbreaker, who they now must consider allowing to live if his survival truly is intertwined with Lullaby's.

You feel yourself drifting, swirling in patterns of darkness then back to mild lucidity only to be pulled under again. The same cycle repeats. Voices loud and quiet- demanding- requesting, questioning.

“SHUT UP!” “Fucking LOW BRED WITCH WHORE GOTHIC CURSING GOTHIC cursing-””Who is this Really!?” “The first psycher of the Baseline populace.” … “Their vitals are normal…at they need now is rest…” “I will take them to bed..”

There was the feeling of being swaddled in dark, familiar smelling blankets. The feeling of cool lips pressing to your cheeks and mouth. “I will return soon my darling…”

“..no….please, st…ay…” You tried to reach out but your fingers barely moved. You weren't even sure your throat was making words. You were so tired…so Tired…So Tired…

Khopesh cooed, brushing his hand softly against your cheek as you fight the force pulling you down. He thinks you look cute, while you feel about to cry. 

“Shhhhh, rest now,” He purrs, bringing his face down so he can nuzzle you, he presses another kiss to your lips. You feel momentarily soothed by the purrs rumbling in his chest as it presses to yours. 

“..s..t..ay…” Your lips move a little at least, but Khopesh seems to think you're just trying to kiss him back.

“When I return…I will give you my Full Attention.” He chuckles, allowing himself to indulge for a moment; he presses his tongue softly past your lips. Another kiss, just a small but intimate taste, he tells himself, just to tide him over until his lingering business with the Grey Knight is decided. 

You don't mind the kiss, but you mind what it means as he pulls away. But it's too late, you're already sinking ... 

sinking…

sinking…

A feeling like humming electricity, an overcharge, Grasping so hard onto Jophiel…followed by a scream so sharp it burned like-

M O L T E N  G O L D 

“HUAh! -ACK COUGH cOuGH!” You bolted upright gasping, hacking and coughing as your throat burned. Your eyes could barely parse the darkness but, you knew the bed your were sitting (coughing hacking dying??) At least…

Water, fucking hell I need water!

The typical water bottle you kept at the bedside was pretty much empty. You hobbled down from the bed, feeling along the way until your hand wrapped around a familiar handle. 

You pulled open the door to the Astarte grade mini fridge, grabbed a hydration ration and chugged it. The too cold liquid hurt as it touched your inflamed throat but the relief to your thirst powered you through it. 

Finally the ration was half empty and you pulled off, sucking in air which further irritated your pipes. Lord above what the Hell had you Done to yourself?? Your throat hurts- and the cold makes it harder to drink and you cough, which hurts.

Then the memories caught up with you properly. Ah right. A Bastard in Silver, a battle, your frie-

HOLY SHIT WHAT HAPPENED TO EVERYONE?!

They were all standing at the end, surely they're fine surely, Please Please PLEASE BE OKAY DON'T BE HURT DONT BE DEAD GO-

BREATHE DAMMIT!

You slapped yourself trying to get your mind in order. You glanced around the room that now at least had some Minor illumination from the fridge light. And a dizzying combo of relief and excitement runs through you as you spot your bag hanging where you normally put it when visiting. 

You're glad you can leave the fridge door propped as you scramble over to your bag and dig through it. There are things that you need to make sure you still have your mind going through the list as you grab each item.

Keys, Wallet (not your goal but you're glad it's there), Charger, Hairbrus- PHONE!

Oh thank the lord above! You think, as you frantically open it. 

Missed calls and texts from your parents…Shit. 

Okay okay Breathe, B R E A T H E, Your fingers tremble as you open the messages. 

‘Hey Lullybird, just checking in. When are you going to be home?’ 

45 minutes after the first message. 

‘Lully can you answer the phone??’

‘Bear, please pick up.’

15 minutes after that.

‘I'm starting to get worried! If you don't pick up your phone I'm going to drive to come find you!’

‘Your mother means it Bear, please answer.’

‘LULLY!’

5 Minutes Later 

‘Hey Hun! Khopesh texted to let us know you had too much fun at the picnic yesterday and passed out. So that's why you weren't answering your phone.’

Oh thank God, your Mom and Dad aren't making a panicked rush to the base. And they don't know about your near death experience. So that's two problems off your shoulders at least. 

And if Khopesh could text them that means he's safe. You feel even more relief flooding your system and uncoiling the Awful tension you'd been feeling. 

At least partly, you still didn't know the fate of the Primaris Marines. 

‘Next time please text Before you fall asleep after having too much fun!’ 

‘Yeah, just because you're Bear doesn't mean you get to hibernate for 6 months and not answer your phone.’

You smiled and rolled your eyes. You decided to type a quick response. 

‘Sorry to worry ya'll, I promise next time I'll text you Before I party myself into passing out. You text. ‘I'm okay, the partying hard also left me pretty tired even now, so I'm gonna chill at the base for a while longer. I should be home later today. I also want to check up on the new friends I made yesterday.’

A response was sent quickly from your mother. 

‘Turkey Butt…but I'm glad you're okay. See you later.’

‘Love you Bear Bear, see you later.’

You typed back. ‘Love you Both! See you soon.’

Okay…now to the main issue. You wanted to find the Primaris Marines. Sure if any were badly injured they'd be getting care from Anrir and Hura. Cedric was a fantastic apothecary in his own right but…

Gurgle…

Okay, one of the main issues, even if the Primaris were fine you Wanted to see them. Maybe it was a disconnect in your brain but sometimes you felt the need to see things to be certain of them. 

Like clicking the door lock of your car three times instead of one. Or double checking the stove was off. 

G U R G L e….

Seems your stomach was doing its own double checking; so you'd need to see to that too. You rub your stomach a little, sheepish with how loudly your stomach complained.

Khopesh should have some non-perishable snacks around. He always kept a supply. A memory of your beloved menace floats into your mind.

‘Just incase there's a shortage. I have lived through them before by the skin of my teeth when I was small. I got thin enough to see my ribs, luckily there was always at least a few rats and bugs running around…and a few corpses here and there. They didn't taste very good but Eh, more reason to be prepared!’

Hearing him say this so cheerfully and matter of fact practically broke your heart. It was part of the reason you wanted to make sure your cake was perfect. You want to make sure that he doesn’t have to worry about starvation.

He deserved the best you could give after that kind of life.  

And that Silver Bastard  R U I N E D it!

You feel your skin prickle with rage, a familiar rumbling grows in your ears as your muscles tense and your jaw twitches. 

Bz-zt Zt!

You're startled from your seething when the fridge light flickers violently with a sharp electric sound. Then it returns to normal as if nothing happened.

That…was weird… A bizarre thought comes to your mind, especially given what happened yesterday. Did…you do that?

If your powers could pour out of you as a scream, or travel through Jophiel like a ground rod, who's to say they can't affect electronics? It's all energy at the end of the day, particles traveling on waves or through conduits, and those waves being able to enhance or weaken each other….

Bringing up these topics to Anrir is third on your list, you decide. Food, Check on the Primaris boys, tell Anrir about science wizard shit. Karlsor did say that sometimes imagination, or lack thereof could be a limiter on psyker abilities.

You're still dressed in your clothes from yesterday, save your shoes but those are easy to locate. You sling your bag on your back, finish the hydration ration, and open the cupboard beside the fridge where the snacks are kept-

There are no snacks….What!?

You feel around in the darkness, thinking perhaps they're just pushed back only for your hand to brush against something papery. 

You pick up the slip of paper, and read it by the light of the fridge, and your half charged phone. 

This is what you get when you take things that don't belong to you Fuckface! Stop stealing my fucking sunglasses, and you can have your food back. 

Sincerely, Karlsor 

P.S. Fuck You 

Followed by a crass doodle of Karlsor sticking his tongue out and flipping the bird. You facepalmed with a groan.

Dammit Karlsor, Of all the times to pull a dumb shit Prank!

Oh well you wanted to leave this room anyway, guess you're doing it on an empty stoma- 

The door handle wiggles a bit, but doesn't turn. You jostle it again hoping it was a fluke…but the movement (or lack thereof) stays the same. 

You must be fucking Joking!? A frustrated wordless shriek/growl builds up in your injured throat, as you fruitlessly shake the handle of the electronic door lock. 

Okay new plan. You whip out your phone, and start texting. 

But as you try to send your messages of ‘Why am I locked in here?’ And ‘The fuck is this??’ with a picture of the food note, followed by ‘Hey Claude, Khopesh locked me in his room can you help me get out?’, And finally ‘Your Gremlins have done a fucking mischief please help!’ To Khopesh, Karlsor, Claude and Anrir respectively…you feel a bit of that prior anxiety creeping back in. 

None of the messages send properly. You try resending, deleting and rewriting, closing the message app and trying again, restarting your phone even! But every time the messages seem to hit a brick wall. 

What the Hell!? Your parents miles away from the base could get your messages, but four people Inside the base couldn't!?

Something wasn't right. 

You turn back to the door. 

You don't know what is happening, but you can't stay here. But how are you going to open the door?

Your mind drifts back to the moment with the light in the fridge…maybe? You kneel so you're eye level with the lock. You feel along it with your fingertips. Perhaps… you could try to do something?

You can't see things the way you did yesterday, but as you pull on your power, you notice the faintest…shimmer slide across the lock. As if your mycelium was invisible except for that nearly imperceptible visual feedback. 

And based on what happened yesterday it was pretty much confirmed that only You and others using warp sight could actually see them, even when boosted to near maximum power. You had heard that sometimes pushing past your limits- or near enough can help with a break through, but that doing such things could be dangerous if not properly watched over and the person cared for during and after it happening.

You remember the Silver Space Marine's murderous rage. How it'd felt not just to See the intention on his face, but actually Feel how he wanted to destroy you. The glare you could feel through the blue visor had been chilling.

The anger…the Malice, you stopped yourself, feeling nausea bubble in your empty gut, you needed to focus on the task at hand. 

You aren't certain how much to push, but you knew how to give a zap so… You remember what Karlsor said about Visualizing what you want your roots to do. Feel them reaching out- extending along a path.

Bzzt-ZAP! The lock clicks, and you swiftly turn the handle, and step out into the hallway. 

The Night lord Hallway. The hallways of the base designed for Night Lords, likely by Night Lords, even if they might not have built it…perfect. The darkness and the twisted architecture here hadn't frightened you for a while, but then again…you'd always come here with Khopesh. 

But other Night lords had human companions! You have an uneasy, sinking feeling in your stomach. You shake your head a little bit. Surely you'd be fine just…just follow what Claude said, when you'd asked about the faint green lines that trailed along the floors of these areas. 

‘Those are for navigation, see how they have arrow shapes cut into them. Follow those, and you can get back to the communal base areas.’ Claude helpfully pointed out- showing you the navigation lines. ‘The green was chosen as it could be seen- even by baselines in the more dimly lit areas of the base- without being considered ‘garish’... Also a word of advice? Do. Not. Run. In this area of the base.’

Follow the green lines and arrows. Okay, you can do this. You Can Do This. 

You take your first steps and wince at the sound of your own shoes as they pad across the floor into the dark. Shifting your bag, and holding it tighter to yourself. 

You'll be fine. You'll be fine. You chant to yourself.

You also firmly (try to) ignore the feeling that you were being watched. You don’t see anyone or hear anyone- but you have experience. You will see or hear your watchers precisely when they want to be seen or heard, and not a moment more.

…

Meanwhile in a meeting room on the upper floors of the Base, Anrir and Hura had gathered their Scoutlings for a meeting. Some of them are standing, others are sitting. Once they are all seated the oldest of the gathered marines speaks up.

“I suppose you would all like an answer as to why I've asked you all to come here?” Anrir posits, folding his hands together as he sits at the table. The other seats are occupied by Hura, Cedric, Ramiel, Nanael, Olly (and his rock), Claude, Jophiel, Kerubiel, Thressl, Karlsor, and Khopesh.

“Give us some credit, old man -Oof!” Kerubiel mutters snidely only to be elbowed by Thressl.

Thressl shakes his head when Kerubiel shot him a glare, snark and sass at this point in time would be a dumb idea. The Dark Angel smacks him back, but doesn’t speak for the moment. Things were tense- and they just found out a big secret. Who knows what Anrir or Hura might do to them with knowledge of something like this.

“We can make an educated Guess, it's to do with the Grey Knight correct?” Cedric answers to which both Anrir and Hura nod. 

“Indeed, we will need to decide what his fate shall be for his ahem … transgressions.” Hura explains. 

“There are a number of factors to consider, namely the benefits and consequences of either keeping him alive, or…”

“Killing him, Slowly…” Khopesh says with a grin that is equal parts gleeful anticipation and frustrated Rage. His claw-like nails were on their way to digging trenches into the table.

“Khopesh do not damage the base's property.” Anrir commands sternly. “Here, dig into this, not the table or your skin.” Anrir tosses an astarte grade stress toy to his…exuberant son who catches it easily, and begins squeezing and digging his claws into it as he'd been doing with the table. 

But his focus doesn’t waiver as he addresses his father. “I care not for the bureaucracy of keeping him alive, or his benefit as a psycher. He has committed an unforgivable act. Incurred an unpayable debt for what he did to our Claude, our Scouts and my Lullaby! Allow me to extract his Meager value from his dying screams in retribution! I will even keep his body usable for you.” He promises, switching to Nostraman so the others wouldn't understand that part. “Please father, allow me this. I crave-No! I Must make him Beg for the mercy of the grave-!”

Claude has been learning Nostraman, and caught his words, he keeps his face neutral- at least Khopesh remembers that waste not, want not includes making sure that organs and other useful pieces can still be harvested, if the Silver Bastard is killed.

Anrir holds up one ancient yet unmarred hand to stop his son from continuing. “A compelling argument my son, but it is not only you he has wronged. The Scouts deserve their chance to speak on these matters as well, given they were the ones most hurt by his actions.”

Khopesh huffs, but doesn't argue, simply responding with a, “Yes father.” To which Anrir nods approvingly, then addresses the other Scouts. 

“Khopesh has given a good example as to why I've brought you all here. I encourage you all to speak freely, One at a time of course.” He explains, then gestures to the room. “This room is shielded, no transmission can go In or Out, your words will only be known to those in this room.”

Hura picks up the conversation. “We shall be taking a vote on the fate of the Grey Knight. You will each get a chance to speak your vote, and if you deem it necessary, elaborate upon it.” 

Now Thressl scoffs a bit. “I don't think we need a whole meeting fer this? Let's just gut the Bastard an’ be done with it! I'm sure all of us have got better things to do than sit here.” The Space Wolf insists. 

Claude shifts uncomfortably in his seat as he speaks up. “I…don't think we should be so hasty.”

This actually causes some confusion, the others in the room turning to the adopted Night lord. While he did not want to be merciful- Jophiel’s words- the vision he had made him… reluctant to kill the bastard outright. For not at least.

“Claudy?” Khopesh asks, uncertain and maybe just slightly mildly frustrated, why his little brother who had been so full of righteous fury suddenly seems so much more subdued.

Claude took a deep breath, “Before we take the vote…there's something you all should know.” He states, standing and gesturing to Jophiel to do the same. “Go ahead,” He says, placing a comforting hand on the Blood Angel's shoulder. 

Jophiel also takes a steadying breath, his wings flex and settle with his nerves before he addresses the room. “I…had a vision…after I helped Lullaby ground the overflow of power they experienced.”

“I saw many possibilities; things that might already be, or haven't been yet, or may never be. The uncertainty is…frightening but the clearest of the images was thus.” Jophiel explains. “A monstrous being of gold, awakes from its slumber, it stirs at the ripples that flow outward from the melody. It hungers for b-blood…” Jophiel stammers a bit, but grounds himself with Claude's hand. “It awakens to Strangle the Melody in the cradle, to make it silent once more…”

“And the worst of outcomes are more likely…if Silver tarnishes into rust…”

The room is mostly silent, the Scouts seem confused by Jophiel's riddle speak…all except for Claude, Khopesh and Karlsor. Karlsor starts swearing under his breath while Khopesh's grip on the stress toy had increased with every word Jophiel spoke until-

POP!

The scoutlings look upon the Night Lord who appears like he's about to pop himself. Still gripping the destroyed item in his fist. Ah- visions are always complicated- and sometimes true, sometimes untrue, sometimes only partially true. But could they take the risk of discarding Jophie’s visions?

No one moves. 

At last Anrir clears his throat. “That was the Second reason for the shielded room…I'm afraid your recent incident with the Grey Knight isn't the only…event of consequence we will need to discuss as we take this vote.”

“Tell me…have any of you Scouts ever heard of a being known as, A Custodes?”

…

Walk, just keep walking, just follow the lines on the floor. 

Walk, do not run, running activates the prey drive and you're Dead. 

Walk, keep your head up to not look weak, but not so far up as to imply arrogance. 

Your thoughts swirl around, and around. The feeling of being watched had only increased as you'd followed the green lines. You had to tamp down on the urge to bolt (walkdontrunpreydrivedead), and even more so on the urge to use your powers. 

Would they do you much good in this situation?? A zap could help but then you'd have to be touching whoever was looking at you, and they might be a psycher so then they might realize it wasn't just static electricity- 

You feel your heart pick up speed with excitement as you see the doorway you knew would lead you out of this place. Away from the eyes of those with unknown intentions. 

Walk Do-Not-Run 

And you're close. You grasp the handle to the door and start to pull. 

“Leaving so soon?” 

The gasping scream you would've made is smothered by your sore throat as your other hand is snatched up in an unfightable hold. You're pulled up and back from the door, then swung around roughly till the movement stops and you can gain your bearings.

A deep navy blue ceremite clad hand is holding your arm, leaving you dangling like a child holding a teddy by the arm, only your toes are touching the floor. You glance back to see a short haired Nightlord with criss crossing facial scars grinning and chuckling in a way that makes your stomach ice over. 

You look forward and see two more shapes come into focus from the darkness. Two more Nightlords, one has his helmet on, the other looks…almost stately in appearance with well groomed stark white hair, and seemingly unblemished skin. 

“My my Myyyy, it seems you're even more…homely in appearance up close.” The white haired Nightlord purrs, going as far to pinch your Nose between his gauntleted fingers! 

He was actually pinching with a decent amount of force, enough to sting. And as he shifted his grip it actually felt like he might try to break it, before tutting at the pained whines you tried to hold back. “Oh come now Pet, don't take it so personally…homely can be Charming after all…in its own way.” He chuckled, releasing your nose, and straightening his posture.

“They Are Cute! Tiiiiiny and fragile,” The Night lord holding you up purrs sickeningly, bringing his face next to yours so you're forced to inhale his breathe, you try not to breathe in so much. “Whatcha wanna do with ‘em Faust?”

Faust hums, and drums his fingers on his chin fucking casually. “Well…there are just so many options. But I Think I know what I want to do First…” He states, and brings his hand to your face again. This time he snatches your cheeks into a little  too tight hold, forcing you to look him in the black, eyes. 

“A question…Why were you such a Rude little human?” You blinked, clearly confused but Faust did elaborate. “I Know you felt us watching, yet you didn't run. You denied us our Chase. And then you have the nerve to not even Scream, when dear Mephis snatched you up? You're either incredibly Dense or Incredibly Stupid.” 

Didn't those mean the same thing??? But Faust went on “So tell me, What is going through your empty little head?”

You were flabbergasted, but before you could even attempt to open your mouth, the other Nightlord who hadn't spoken once finally sighed. He sounded bored and exasperated. “Really Faust?”

“SHUT UP CHIROP!” Faust's voice turning from posh yet sadistic to full on snarling bile actually startles you…though maybe not just you if the twitch you felt from Mephis was anything to go by. Chirop seems to hesitate, before glancing away. Faust turns his attention back to you, and the stately gentlemen act comes back over him. “Well? We're waiting…”

You're not even sure what's trying to come out of your mouth, maybe a Huh? Or a What? But your sore throat chokes ot to nothing, leaving you flailing like a fish on a line, wincing and grasping your throat.

Now it’s the Night Lords turn to look confused. “Are you Mute as well as stupid?” Faust askes with a slight sneer.

Okay, fuck you bastard, you thought but shake your head. You bring your hand up to your throat and press your fingers to the sore spots from the outside. 

“You got Choked?” Mephis asks, confused.

Okay fair misinterpretation, you shake your head again. You bring your hand up and make a scratching motion at your throat.

“Oo! OO! I got it! Your neck is itchy?” Mephis puts forth before…bringing his other hand up, and…scratching at the back of your neck??

It was a bit roughly done, but actually didn't feel too bad. Still no though, you shake your head again. What other motions could you make to get the idea across?

Chirop sighs then growls. “For Curze's sake their throat is injured! Like Scratchy? That's why they can't talk!”

“Oh…” Mephis nods with understanding…still scratching the back of your neck. “That makes sense.”

Faust seems a little miffed by the explanation, and let's out a huff. “Well…that's disappointing…” Then a new look comes over his face, one that brings back the curdling dread in your stomach. “But…it also means no one Else will be able to hear you Scream…” He brings his grinning face full of bright sharp teeth down to your eye level. 

It's at this point Mephis stops scratching your neck. “Well yeah…they just explained they literally can't scream.”

“MEPHIS YOU ARE A BRAIN DEAD IDIOT! BE SILENT” The snarling bile came back, and this time you notice how Mephis flinches more obviously when the white haired Nightlord turns his vitriol on him. Faust huffs then brushes his hair back as if trying to compose himself. You notice how the third less chatty member of the group had flexed his claws, and leaned forward when Faust chastised Mephis. 

Interesting…and you actually Almost feel sorry for him when the Nightlord holding you mumbles out a quiet. “Sorry Faust…”

Faust seems to notice Mephis's unhappiness, and lets out a sigh. “You know I adore how…charmingly direct you are Mephis dear.” He cooes, now saccharine in his wording. 

It makes you want to vomit with how clearly Fake it was. 

“But it Can also be…tedious, and you Know how I feel about tedium, don't you?” More sweet empty cooing, you're third wheeling your own shakedown…Great…

You glance to the other third wheel with a look of confusion. He just shakes his head, and you figure he's rolling his eyes. His fists were still clenching and unclenching though.

“So…why not break up the tedium by…playing with a new toy? Would that make you feel better, my big strong lunk head?”

Okay now the dread comes back, and you did Not like how Mephis's expression changed to one of excitement. 

Chirop speaks up again. “Faust, you know who this one belongs to...”

Faust scoffs. “I don't see a tattoo anywhere, do you Chirop? Is the tattoo in the room with us?” He remarks snidely. “Or maybe that's just the opinion of yours that I didn't ask for. Besides…”

“I doubt one of Anrir's lap dog bastard sons would care if we batted around his current sex toy for a bit. He doesn't even care enough to mark them, so they can't be That important…”

You ears fill with rumbling again like before, causing This Smarmy Fuckers words to trail off into background noise. 

First he calls Your Khopesh a lap dog bastard son, then has the Nerve to insinuate that Khopesh doesn't Love You?

The man who threatened to fight the literal reason for your trauma? (Even if you'd convinced him not to.) Who gave you love and affection and banter and made you feel beautiful inside, outside, in bed, in life, introduced and integrated you into his Family for fucks SAKE.

“Hell they'd probably spread their legs for anyone who offered them safety, If they were even smart enough to think of doing so that is.”

Honestly you thought this fucker had found the straw that broke the camel's back? BUT DAMN he just keeps finding more!

You're done, you are Done with this bullshit. You've shot straight past fear and now you are going to make them-

P A Y...

Mephis you can tackle through the hand still held in his grasp but the others…

(!) And that's when it hits you. You feel your toes touching the floor, almost as if you were dancing en point. You focus, pulling on your power, and pushing it through your legs. 

As the two Nightlords continue their chatting about all the awful things they might do to you, you watch the shimmer and shift of the air as you feel the mycelium spread. 

You suppress a determined smile when you feel the subtle change in sensation of it making contact with the Nightlords. The shimmers crawl up their armor and you imagine your mycelium grasping and tangling around their Necks.

They're not psychers, you can feel how low their warp power is.

So you'll just have to drain their life force instead. If giving energy causes a boost of Vitality, draining it must do the opposite. And you weren't going to lie, the thought of these bastards dropping like flies in front of you sounded Very Appealing right now. 

You'd still need to be careful, pulling too fast could cause a zap, which might give you away. That you could not risk. It’s working. You think to yourself, pleased.

You do allow yourself a light grin seeing the shimmer on your roots become slightly more visible. You also notice how the conversation of the Night Lords has changed again. 

Namely that it's trailed off, Faust (bastardfuckfacedeadmanwalking-) swivels his head around suddenly. 

“Did you two…hear something?” He asks, actually sounding a little worried. 

Mephis looks around as well, you can feel his grip loosening as he loses focus. “Hear what?”

“Maybe it's Another opinion you didn't want to hear.” Chirop growls, more tersely, perhaps his response to your roots draining him is more anger than Fear. 

“Will you Shut your Stupid FUCKING MOUTH CHIROP I'M TRYING TO LISTEN!” 

“Is the sound in the room with us right now Faust? BECAUSE ALL I'M HEARING IS YOUR ANNOYING FUCKING VOICE!”

Mephis actually seems very distressed by this outcome. “Stop it! Both of you! We're not supposed to fight each other!”

“SHUT UP MEPHIS!” “NOT NOW MEPHIS!”

“DO NOT, GIVE HIM ORDERS!”

“OH BECAUSE THE ONLY ONE ALLOWED TO GIVE ORDERS IS YOU RIGHT!? CURZE'S SAKE I SHOULD'VE-”

“LIKE YOU HAVE EVEN A SHRED OF WHAT IT TAKES! IT’S NO PICNIC MANAGING YOU TWO IDIOTS! YOU'RE LUCKY TO HAVE SOMEONE AS CAPABLE AS ME TO KEEP YOU BOTH ALIVE AND FED!”

“PLEASE!” 

“SHUT UP!” “MEPHIS!”

Bingo, the other two were at each other's throats and the third was steadily becoming more upset which would hopefully lead to him dropping y-

“Shut UP I'M TRYING TO THINK!” 

“But I didn't say anything Fau”-

SMACK! 

Your world falls for a moment as your feet hit the concrete floor, with the rest of your body following. You roll scramble back to standing as soon as you can. Claude and you had practiced how to roll and fall properly so that you didn’t hurt yourself.

Just in case some asshole might try to grab you- from Astartes height-. Your jaw however stays fallen open as you realize what just happened. Faust actually struck Mephis across the face, who's now doubled over covering himself while Faust continues to berate him. 

“I said SHUT UP! AND QUIET YOUR INCESSANT WHINING IT'S GRATING ON MY NERVES YOU DOLT!”

“Sorry Faust…” Mephis whimpers. 

That…he can't be… If Any of the Nightlords you knew pulled something like that…Any of the Astartes you knew even! The one in Mephis's position wouldn't be apologizing! He'd be throwing hands!

Or someone would be throwing them on his behalf!

You glance back at the other Night lord who does look ready to KILL the white haired Asshole, but you notice the way he hesitates. 

Mephis briefly looks at him, and shakes his head, which seems to be the only thing holding Chirop back from committing a good old fashioned homicide. 

What the fuck kind of dynamic had you walked (been dragged) into? As much as you would love to break the prissy platinum blond bitch's nose you knew you didn't stand a chance, even one to one, but if you go for the door now, they'd probably snatch you again before you made it three steps.

For now, you had managed to keep your focus even while being dropped, so you keep draining. But you are Primarily focused on Faust.

Could anyone blame you? 

The white haired Night Lord seems to grow more paranoid by the second whipping back and forth until…his eyes land on you. 

You freeze, half from fear and the other half you still feel that bubbling seething rage in your very Soul. 

“Stop it- Stop Staring at me you little Freak!!” He snarls, maybe he can subconsciously sense what you're doing. You don't stop though.

You Like seeing the FEAR in his eyes.

Faust actually starts laughing, without humor and without breaking eye contact. “Oh OhHO little whore iS DEFIANT EY?” He giggles, and you scramble backwards as he advances. “TIME FOR YOU TO LEARN, WHAT DEFIANCE GETS YOU-” Faust shouts while winding up his arm for a back hand. 

SLAM-M-M!

A huge dark shape interrupts Faust by Crashing down from above in front of you. The entry is followed by a piercing guttural snarl and the sound of flapping bat wings. 

“SHIT IT'S THE NIGHT HAUNTER! RUN! SCATTER!!!” Mephis cries, and scrambles away into the dark with Chirop not far behind. 

“YOU IDIOTS IT'S NOT THE NIGHT HAUNTER IT'S JUST-,” 

“Just…What exactly…?” A familiar voice breathes through the ghoulish looking raptor helm. 

Faust shuts his stupid fucking mouth, before having the Gall to bring out the polite voice again. “Ahh…Ghosk, what a surprise…”

“5….”

“I'm sorry what?”

“4…”

“Now wait just a minute this is All a misunderstanding!”

“3…”

“Which has already offended you so I'll just be on my way…”

“2-1…”

“FUCKING HELL YOU IDIOTS WAIT FOR ME!” Faust cries as Ghosk chases him back into the darkness, snarling and slashing claws practically at his heels until the younger Nightlord vanishes from your sight. 

You let out a breath you didn't realize you'd been holding. Holy shit that was scary. 

But it was also Satisfying. Fuck those assholes! 

Ghosk huffs into the dark, before turning back to you. You'd met this particular Nightlord and his human. Like you'd said before, Khopesh wanted to integrate you into his family. 

He was Oooold like Anrir, but a bit more crass like Karlsor. His jokes made you snort on more than one occasion. But right now he seemed far less jovial. 

Not like you couldn't guess why…

“This is no place for squishy little humans to be walking Alone. What in Curze's name were you Thinking?” He growled in a voice that was both exasperated and Tired. 

You open your mouth to respond, but only a bit of weezy air comes out as you try to speak. 

Shit that still hurt!

You fumbled around in your bag for your phone and typed a quick message. 

'Shit popped off yesterday, ask Anrir.' 

'Throat got fucked up, not in the fun way. Literally can't talk.'

'Got locked in a room without food.' You show the picture of Karlsor's note which causes Ghosk to actually laugh slightly followed by tired mutter of “Of course he fucking did that, for fuck's sake…”

'Need to eat And I need to find the Primaris boys, especially Jophiel, have you seen them??'

Ghosk shakes his head. “Sorry kid, haven't seen any of them since this morning. Just saw Anrir being tight lipped as usual, he was with Claude though. And I haven't seen the fluffy duckling in a long while.”

Ghosk notes the way your shoulders sagged in disappointment, before an itch hits your throat causing you to hack and cough like you had tuberculosis. 

He chuckles patting you on the back as your neck throbs from the air forced through it. “Come on little human. Let's get you to the medbay.”

THuMP! 

Another loud sound similar to when Ghosk had plummeted to your aid rings out. You whip your head in the direction, and Ghosk instantly goes into another defensive stance, a snarl is building on his lips until-

“What the heck is all the ruckus down here for??” Another familiar voice comes out of another familiar helmet. This one you recognize as a Chaplain, and the voice…

Ghosk sighs heavily. “Shatterwing…”

The Chaplain whom you'd met in passing holds his clawed gauntlets up plaintively. “Hey man, I just got here- Oh!” His eyes lock onto you, and he swoops in curiously. “Khopesh's little squeeze! But not a Khopesh in sight, what's up with you? You two have a fight?”

You open your mouth, but again nothing comes out. You point to your throat, and shake your head. 

“You didn't have a fight…you just can't talk?” Shatterwing asks, cocking his head. 

Damn you're tired. You finally decide fuck it, open your mouth as wide as you can, and even hook your fingers into your cheeks. You take one hand and point down your throat to emphasize that Shatter should look Inside. Which to his credit he does. 

“HOLY DAMNED WHORE MOTHER OF CURZE WHAT DID HE DO TO YOU!?!?”

The Chaplain shrieks causing you to startle a bit, ah well ... you certainly hadn't expected that reaction, lord above. 

“The hell are you yapping about now!?” Ghosk demands. 

Shatterwing points a trembling hand at you. “Their throat is redder than a tech priest taking a mud bath on Mars! What the hell did you and Khopesh do last night?? Were you trying to do something kinky and went too far or was this expected!?-” 

Thwack! “Don't ask them that you dumb fucking slut!” Ghosk growls after delivering a quick hit to the rambling chaplain. It was much less violent than the one you saw Faust give Mephis.

The Chaplain hisses back at the older Nightlord, you just…you just shake your head. 

“Wait, that's not what happened?” Shatter asks. “Then what did?”

You open your mouth, but then close it. You can't…really tell him. So you just shake your head again. 

“Oooooh I see…too embarrassed to tell me?” Shatter posits. You feel an embarrassed blush erupting over your face at the implications. “No worries little human, you don't have to give me details. Though I certainly wouldn't be opposed. I'd be impressed to find a partner who could leave my throat like that after a night of Passion.”

You facepalm, pulling your hand down your cheeks in exasperation. You're not escaping the freak allegations today it seems. Maybe better he thinks you're just into weird stuff, saves you the trouble of making up a proper lie. 

Ghosk just sighs tiredly again before telling Shatter to either be quiet or Scram, because he's taking you to the med bay. 

The Chaplain acquiesces to the former, but you can't escape the feeling of him eyeing you smugly as the three of you make your way there. 

Lord above it's not even 11 AM and the day is already exhausting…Lucky You!

[kit-williams]

Insanity seems to follow...

thank you @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan for letting me use Karlsor

@egrets-not-regrets @liar-anubiass-blog @barn-anon @bleedingichorhearts

@ms--lobotomy @nekotaetae @sleepyfan-blog

Karlsor was still fucking pissed that he was stuck being the face for this shitty ass base learning shitty ass rules?! That everything made no fucking sense and that the humans here looked weird... its when some son of Magnus had finally filled him in on what was going on with what he was seeing. So maybe the bonds weren't totally bullshit... just mostly bullshit. Though... some of them looked odd... the bonds on the twisted fuckers looked different... far too organic looking verses the fabric looking that the warp here seemed to have.

This was so much bullshit! And then he heard there was a base full of Night Lords so why the fuck was he stuck here?!

"Can you stop stomping around? Some of us are trying to nap." A voice in Nostroman swears at him from some perch in the darkness to which Karlsor could easily the black haired and pale skinned individual.

"Fuck you!" Karlsor hisses and he sees the black eye open up at him.

"Fuck you too." Ghosk snarls, "Why the fuck are you here?"

"Where else would I fucking be?!"

"At base?"

"I AM AT BASE!"

Ghosk barks out a laugh, "They didn't tell you that there's a night lord base?"

"FUCKING ULTRAMARINES AND THEIR BULLSHIT!" Karlsor swore and he knew they were trying to keep him around.

"Though... I wouldn't go right now. Bit of a mess."

"Why?"

Ghosk leaned an arm down looking like a large cat as he lounged, "Politics. No one is from the first claw... so currently its a dick swinging contest as to who gets to be 'chapter master' or 'legion master'."

"So why the fuck are you here?"

"Because I spoke the truth like Jesus Christ." He continued before Karlsor could ask what the fuck he was talking about, "I said it was going to be one the the Terran born Night Lords that is probably going to be in charge. Either Loyalist or Traitor because they actually aren't fucking retarded like the rest of us from Nostromo. So I'm here until they pick someone."

"Cool... who the fuck are you." Karlsor says.

"Ghosk. Ghosk Sevyrarek. Raptor. So who the fuck are you?" Ghosk replies.

"Karlsor. Librarian."

"When are you from?" Ghosk croons looking down at him. Karlsor debates on even telling him given how he's currently in the "chaos" wing of the base. Ghosk huffs, "I'm from M41."

"M31" Karlsor finally relents, "We were attacking McCragge."

"Oh... OH SHIT I was there! Hey I was a scout at that time if you go back can you pass something along to my past self."

"Fuck off." Karlsor says before there was suddenly a blur and he felt weight on his chest as he felt cold. Ghosk's eyes were old as the unarmored Night Lord was perched above him as his fucking wings seemed hide them from you.

"LISTEN I have been alive for ten thousand fucking years since our Primarch died. Since all that shit went down and everything went tits up. I have seen shit so much WORSE. Now if we do go back you're going to either kill me or tell me to join the loyalists." Ghosk says with his eyes darting around calming down.

Karlsor grumbles but accepts the hand from the shorter night lord. There was a pause between them, "But yeah plenty of Night Lords at base would want your opinion since this is a big deal. Blah Blah Blah. You know claw politics. Anyway I guess have fun being stuck here!" Ghosk says with a snicker before walking off with his wings neatly folded up against his back.

Karlsor just groaned as shit was getting stupider with what insane bullshit he was having to learn to accept was just normal here. "Fuck me..." He says wandering off.

[kit-williams]

Caught in the Rain

Male Lead: Ghosk Female Lead: Rabbit Universe/AU: Warhammer 40k/Yandere Space Marines Canon Status: 100% canon

Note: I 100% listened to a rainy day playlist which is hilarious given its 40k and there is a Night Lord involved

My legs burned as well as my lungs. The rain was so loud in my ears as I couldn't run any further and I had to stop as the cold drops of water slammed into my skin and my soaked clothing. I couldn't hear the fighting anymore... not for a long while but that didn't mean I wasn't just a quick jog away from a bunch of space marines. I move on unsteady legs to some shade. Ghosk was fairly personable... in the sense he joined warbands and had literally one rule... for me to not be touched by anyone else. Yet I don't know what it was about me that made someone, not always but, want to mess with me and therefor mess with Ghosk.

It always dissolved into Ghosk getting angry and then eventually they have to move on because not many appreciate a Night Lords creativity for murder of another Space Marine. I didn't understand why they would think he wouldn't retaliate... he was petty and spiteful and very much protective of what was his. I lean against the tree shaking from the cold drops as the tree was hardly protecting me. "Fucking manicured tree." I say softly just smiling as I know that is something Ghosk would complain about.

The sound of rain changed as I looked up seeing a large wing covering the sky right above me and I looked over my shoulder at, "Ghosk. You made it." I say breathlessly as I limp over to him and stand on the tips of my toes to hug him. The rain cleaning off any gore left on him... the consistent tapping against his armor and the soft hiss of it hitting the cooling pack on his back.

"Are you alright?" He says having pulled off his helmet and I wince for him.

A nasty bruise is a dark purple thing that eats up half of his face. Crimson blood that is nearly black runs out of his hastily fixed nose and from between his teeth but the rain quickly dampens his sweat laced hair and washes away the blood. He just grins as my eyes look over him.

"I feel like I should be asking that." I say softly as he throws his head back laughing, the skulls on his hip and armor clinking softly against their bindings and his armor.

"You're a funny little rabbit." He says wrapping me up in his wing. It was like I was sitting in one of those hanging chairs... except this chair was made of flesh as the inside skin was dry and warm. I couldn't help but shiver against him. "You're so cold..." He said with what I assumed was concern as I could feel the way his other wing cupped around me as well.

I sniffled loudly which didn't seem to help my case, "I'll be fine."

"Bullshit." He just replies with a huff as he starts to move me closer to his chest.

"Isn't this hurting your wings?" I ask looking up at him as how he has me against his chest he can look down at me and I can look up at him without rain coming in.

"No." He says with mock offense at my questioning of his strength and pain tolerance. "Hardly weigh a thing. Maybe if you weren't such a leggy thing and put on some weight." He teases as I snort as I can feel how the 'fingers' of the wings move against me as if petting me slightly.

"Maybe you should drop me off someplace so you'll stop getting kicked out of warbands." I say as I can see him open the cocoon of flesh he's trapped me in to give me a look of a quirked eyebrow and his typical smirk.

"And deprive myself of your company? Not a chance. You're worth the annoyances... you're worth the bullshit... you're worth it. " He says so casually as I turn away hiding the blush on my face. I hear his chuckle, "Did I say something wrong?" Clearly knowing what he said.

"You're an ass."

"An honest ass... but yes I'm very much an ass."

"Why do you do it Ghosk?" I roll back over to look at him as he just looks down at me with his typical smile. "I don't think I'm worth you getting kicked out of warbands for."

"Well good thing I'm not asking you. " He says chuckling, "You're my rabbit and I'm going to take care of you." He says softly nearly being drowned out by the noise of the rain.

I let my eyes close for but a moment to listen to the rain against broken pavement... the way his steps make their sounds... the sounds of his armor... I open my eyes up to the pop of wood burning and the sound of rolling thunder.

"There's my sleeping beauty. Thought I would have to give you that kiss to wake you up soon."

I laugh softly as I sit up... "Ghosk where's my clothes."

"Drying. Also here is your bag you left behind. So you can get dressed. Not like I haven't seen you naked before." He says shrugging as he puts a warmed up ration into my lap. The skeleton of a store is where he decided to hide us in... as he made a nest of pillows and blankets for me as there is a small pile of damp towels nearby.

The flash of lightning gets him to jump up over to me as it sounds, smells, and feels like it strikes oh so very close by. "Know what."

"What." He drawls out slowly relaxing.

"I think I'm okay just being here... " I say wrapped up in a haphazardly made nest with food in my belly... and well Ghosk wasn't exactly terrible company.

"I think I can agree with you on that." He smiles sitting nearby and resting one of his wings over me to just be touching me? I don't really know but with the warm meal in my stomach my eyes look out at the rain rushing down outside.

My hands slowly move over his wings moving between the membrane to the 'fingers' but soon I just move my fingers over the claw just absentmindedly playing with it. I don't realize how I just drift off in his hold... I don't feel the way he picks me up and just holds me close for a small bit before tucking me back into the nest. And once the rain passes we return to how it always has been... Ghosk and I meandering through life and death together.

Fluffuary taglist: @bispecsual @the-californicationist @egrets-not-regrets @libraryshadow @bleedingichorhearts @liar-anubiass-blog

[kit-williams]

RANDOM POLL

tagging people because this effects yer boy Ghosk

@bispecsual @egrets-not-regrets @moodymisty @bleedingichorhearts @liar-anubiass-blog

@thevoidscreams @barn-anon @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan @squishyowl @ms--lobotomy

[egrets-not-regrets]

The life of the Grey Knight is truly hanging in the balance there.

Also, Karlsor! Seriously? At least he apologized sincerely for it.

Goodness, that bunch of Space Wolves can’t seem to keep themselves out of trouble. I swear! I was hoping for them to get a beatdown from the Primaris and the Night Lords. But letting all three apothecaries handle is just as good. Karma did indeed bite them in the ass and I hope both Captain Ash’val and Horlux will firther discipline them appropriately. Though I have a feeling that Horlux might not be very happy with the way they made an ass of themselves and causing trouble at the Night Lords/ fellow Chaos Legion base. It’s rather embarrassing for him so I could see his punishment would be duly harsh and potentially be humiliating.

12 Angry Space Marines or Lullaby's No Good Very Bad Only a Little Good Day - Part 2

First! A big thanks to @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan for helping write this beast of a piece. And to @sleepyfan-blog , @kit-williams and @egrets-not-regrets for use of their various characters!

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter (Under construction)

The First One

Warning: Talks of violence, a very sore throat, near mental breakdown, dismissive Healthcare professional, throwing plates.

Tags! I Hope you all enjoy!: @kit-williams @sleepyfan-blog @egrets-not-regrets @felinisnoctis @bispecsual

@passionofthesith @beckyninja @bleedingichorhearts @barn-anon

@gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan @jaghatai-khock @virozero @angronsjewelbeetle

Summary:

After surviving a loathsome introduction to the living necrotic toothache known as Faust, Lullaby is once again alone and trying to find Something to do until they can find or receive a message from either Khopesh or the Primaris Marines. Unbeknownst to them, the people they most want to contact are thinking about them as well. Namely, in regard to deciding between life and execution for Stormbreaker, and poor Khopesh especially is having a time of it.

“So…that is one of the current working theories as to why Lullaby's abilities have manifested the way they have. Any questions?”

Back in the conference room, Anrir had just finished explaining a somewhat shortened version of the Custodes incident to the Scouts seated around the table, as well as his hypothesis about how the violence of the bond rejection might be a reason for your psychic abilities. 

Most of them look…well for lack of a better description, lost for words, but each in their own way of course. 

Jophiel is subdued and sullen, his wings were tucked and hung on his back. He looks tired and overwhelmed all in one swoop. But seeing as he's yet to have a proper sleep after his vision it wasn't too great a surprise. And then to learn the gold from his vision could be a murderous Custodes? He…he did not want to think about the damage that could be done. He also winced at the memories of how cold he'd been to you, especially given this new context. 

Much similar thoughts plague Ramiel, they'd barely managed to subdue a Grey Knight! And though it wasn't outright said, Ramiel knew that Bastard hadn't been trying to kill them. They likely wouldn't have made it home had that been the case. A Custodes is to an Astarte, what an Astarte is to a Baseline… How in the name of the God Emperor were they going to be able to fight and survive against that?!

He mutters quick prayers to the Emperor and at the same time feels an almost existential dread well up inside him at the thought that one of the Emperor's most renowned and deific creations would…would do something like what he'd just heard described?! It makes him sick. 

Claude is seemingly fighting the urge to fidget and twitch, clearly bothered by what he'd just been relayed, but perhaps uncertain of how to express it. He knew Something dangerous could be coming from what Jophiel said but this…this was something he Never could have imagined. 

A custodes trying to murder a baseline human in cold blood? It made his skin prickle, he desperately wants to run from the room and type on his vox to make sure you were okay. But he holds himself back, just barely but he does. You were exhausted and needed your rest. He could check on you later. 

Cedric and Nanael are no less bothered but are more quiet and pensive, they exchange glances and their thoughts run the same path. ‘If Jophiel's prediction came true another bastard would be buried. But this is no ordinary so-called loyalist, so do they keep the current bastard alive in the hopes he might be convinced to aid them?’ Or do they take their chances? Silver in the vision could mean any number of things relating to the Grey Knight. Like say perhaps…using the bastard's weapons or even his organs, he didn't need to be alive for that, and they'd certainly have an advantage with those things at their disposal. 

Olly's face is set in a deep frown, as he debates breaking pieces off his rock to chew on. It would give him a way to focus his thoughts, which were at once too much and felt too empty to be of much use. Just a cycle of replaying those awful words describing your injury, and subsequent rescue. How much you'd been through already, yet you still risked your secret getting out and all this being exposed to save their lives…it was so much to take in. 

At that moment Olly wants more than anything to just…rewind. Go back to the picnic, minus the Grey Knight interference. To just eat candy rocks with you and his brothers, and talk about food and chemistry. He'd made a treasured new friend, and he’s already facing the possibility of losing you because of the Grey Knight's actions. 

And at the same time, that bastard might be needed to keep you alive…somehow. Maybe. Possibly. He frowns a little- he’s not really certain about Psykery and possible futures. He tries to recall what the Codex Astartes says about such things. A dead enemy can, less likely, hurt you. But a potential ally's death can be wasteful.

Kerubiel and Thressl are also quiet, in their case not knowing how to respond to this new information. Kerubiel's mind runs a mile a minute pulling up, and turning over every scrap of info he could think of with Custodes and Grey Knights in mind. 

Their powers, their prowess and how they'd match against each other. A Murderous Custodes of ANY type could likely cleave through half this base without breaking a sweat, so perhaps somehow roping the Grey Knight into service was the only way to prevent that. 

Thressl, somewhat like Olly, feels near disbelief. But in his case it was because he had never heard of Custodes until now. But…they were loyalists? Why would one harm a baseline human this way, bond wanted or not!? It made no sense to the Space Wolf Primaris who scratched at his red mane of hair while his thoughts continued. 

Maybe they could hide you somewhere till this bastard went to ground again, regroup with a better plan and kill him when he wasn't possibly, maybe coming to kick down their doors. Could also use you as bait, but judging how Khopesh was reacting, Thressl was likely to get his face bitten off for suggesting that. 

Karlsor, having already known about the Custodes incident, simply waits. No fucking point trying to push the scouts to make a decision or catch up it was a lot to take in. Instead he distracts himself by watching how Khopesh paces the floor back and forth muttering like a mad man.

“He should die, he Must die, but if he dies would Lullaby-NO! I won't allow that to happen! But would our forces be enough!? We could hide them. Lure the Custodes into a trap. I'll make him Bleed, I'll make them Both bleed! I will, I Must!...” He mutters, stalking the floor back and forth and wringing the destroyed stress toy in his hands. 

When someone does speak it's Claude. “Brother please-”

“He cannot be trusted!” Khopesh snarls, whipping his attention to his younger brother, but given his mental state it comes off as desperate, not angry. “He could try to take you again! Take any of you again! If we allow him to live but…” Khopesh trails off, his trembling picking up. 

“If he dies…Lullaby could be put in more grave danger.” Olly finishes. 

Khopesh looks about ready to punch a wall, letting out a sound half way between and groan and a shriek as he paces again.

“That is…Provided the vision isn't full of horseshit- No Offense Jophiel.” Karslor posits, leaning back in his chair. 

Jophiel sighs heavily. “I wish it were so easy to tell…I have had visions of both kinds. Those that came true, those that did not, and those that could be actively prevented…” He trails off. “I'm sorry…I do not have any more insight and that is…exceedingly frustrating…” He begins to reach for his feathers, before Claude takes his hand to prevent him from stress preening. 

Anrir glances at Hura, his hands folded in front of him in contemplation. “We have discussed all necessary context for this decision. I believe it would be best if we went ahead and took the votes.” He stated. 

“At the end of the day…the decision must be made. And we will have to reap whatever consequences come later no matter what the vote decides.” Hura states. 

The room becomes silent again, but there is an air of resigned agreement. The Scouts sit at their places once more, though Khopesh still fidgets with the stress toy in one hand. Thoughts were had, decisions made.

Time to take a vote. 

…

“Say Ahhhhh,” The Apothecary says, holding up the bottle of medicine in his other hand. 

“...aaah,”

Ssshhhpritz!

“Cough! Cough -ack! Bleh!” You get another round of painful coughs as the spray medicine hits your damaged pipes with a mix of cold aerosol, and a cloying medicinal flavor that's meant to be grape. 

It sticks to the back of your tongue while an uncomfortable numbness starts to settle in. 

Is it better than the burning? Only technically, you think with bleary dissatisfaction at this whole mess. 

Stupid silver butt munch asshole…

“Oh come now,” The Apothecary tuts softly…and a bit condescendingly. “Chin up, it doesn't hurt that bad.. or it won't for much longer.”

“Hmph…” You grouse under your breath. 

Ghosk and Shatter had dropped you off here after explaining your need for some throat spray. (They have other base duties to tend to so they couldn't stick around.) For once the med bay wasn't super busy, so you got tended to rather quickly, which was nice. 

Less nice was the fact even Astartes with all their knowledge, and cool science wizardry from beyond the stars apparently still couldn't make a throat spray that didn't taste like candied hair gel fumes. 

The apothecary hummed, packing up a small bottle for later use, and handed it to you. “Spray your throat before bed, and in the mornings until the inflammation subsides. You remember the way to the front desk correct?” He asks. 

You nod, placing the bottle in your bag, and hopping down from the exam table. 

As the door to the exam room closes behind you, you glance in the direction of the front desk. 

And pointedly turn the Other direction. If any of the Primaris were injured they might be here now, you might also find Anrir, Hura or Zariel if you were persistent enough. 

“Excuse me,” You flinch, maybe you should have waited a bit or faked like you were going to reception until the Apothecary seeing you had left.  “Human…reception is the Other Way.”

You turn and shake your head, pulling out your phone to type a quick message about wanting to say hello to Hura or Anrir or Zariel as they'd treated you before. It wasn't a lie. 

The apothecary reads it with a somewhat bored expression. “None of those Apothecaries are on staff today, little one. And even if they were, they'd have more important duties to tend to.” He states, gently but firmly placing an armored hand behind your back and guiding you (forcing you) to go back to reception. 

You desperately want to type another message about the possible injury your friends might have received, and wanting to check for them. But that could result in being questioned about How they received those injuries and that wouldn't be good for anyone. 

“Remember: Spray twice a day, morning and night till inflammation subsides. Goodbye now.” The Apothecary said with an air of finality as he escorts (pushes) you back into the waiting room. 

You huff after the door closed you out, disappointed and dejected and honestly a little offended by the Apothecary's dismissive attitude. But he did give you something, that being the three Apothecaries you mentioned weren't working today. 

But that just raised further questions!

Maybe they were all doing something regarding the Silver Space Marine. That might take them away from their usual posts. 

…You hoped it's just that. As you walk, you debate using your abilities as you'd done yesterday. 

Everyone had a recognizable Aura. I could literally feel who was who so maybe…

But…the Primaris weren't the only psychers here, so if another sensed what you were doing that could cost you your secret. And it would cause even more problems for your friends than they'd already faced, or might still be facing. 

Your vague memories of Jophiel's face as he helped you swam to the forefront of your mind. God what if your power had hurt him permanently!? You feel your stomach twist from more than just the disgusting throat spray…

You need a distraction. Eventually someone will see your messages, you'd sent a few more even though they didn't get through. But eventually one or two Would and then this will all just be a bad but transient experience…you hope. 

Eating was off the table until the nausea passed, but maybe you could do something else involving food. Get your body to reset as it were. You had promised Karlsor a Raspberry Meyer Lemon cake after all. 

You perk up at the thought of being able to do something productive, and relaxing. You could probably also find some protein bars or other quick snacks in the prep kitchens for when your appetite returned. So you trot the short distance there, now actually feeling a little better. 

There were several so surely at least one of them will be open for use. You grab the handle of the first one and pull. 

Only for the door to slam shut from the inside, suddenly. As if someone had yanked it closed. 

You try again, grabbing the handle. 

SLAM! The door pulls shut again. Followed by some rather…harsh sounding words in Gothic on the other side. 

Okay Now you were pissed off. If the kitchen was in use, that's Fine! But whoever's on the other side needs some damn Manners! You pound on the large door with your fist.

You hear the Gothic words again, and this time the door cracks open. An irate looking Blood Angel stands in the doorway and seemed ready to cuss out whatever dumb bastard kept interrupting him and his brother's work! 

But his gaze doesn't meet another Space Marine at the door, which causes him to shift from angry to confused. Till he eventually glances down to see you in all your average human height, and his expression changes again to become softer. 

“Oh my goodness! You startled me little human. What's the matter, can I help you?”

You nod. And text quickly on your phone. 

‘Hello, I have a sore throat (not sick just partied too hard last night) and can't talk. I wanted to make a cake for my friends, is the kitchen not available?’

The Blood Angel's frame relaxes a bit and he sighs. “Awwww, that is so sweet. But I'm sorry to say you've come at the worst possible time, little one.” He states gesturing to the kitchen. 

You peek where he indicates and see an entire swarm of Blood Angels working like a well oil machine prepping…well to you it looks like many types of Hors d'oeuvres. The type you'd see at a hugely fancy party. 

And it turns out your guess isn't far off. “There is a rather important Art Gala tonight, and my brothers and I have to use the kitchens today to ensure all the food is prepared accordingly. That means none of the kitchens are available right now.”

Your shoulders sag with disappointment, though you still text to confirm. ‘All the kitchens?’ 

The Blood Angel nods solemnly, “Indeed, and we will need them for most of the day. Hence why I am stationed here to keep anyone from entering.” He explains. “Even in the least busy one you're likely to get trampled, so it's better you choose a different day for your baking.” 

You sigh, but nod. There's nothing you can do, you suppose…

The Blood Angel takes note of your dour mood. He does so hate to see small, sweet things unhappy. “Wait here for a moment, little one.” He states, ducking back inside the kitchen. 

You're not sure what he's doing until he pops back out with a small pastry on a plate. It's somewhat like a Danish with some kind of fruit filling. 

You point to yourself to confirm he's offering it to you, and he nods. “We have a few creations that aren't quite…aesthetic enough for the Gala. But rest assured they still taste wonderful.”

You smile, taking the warm pastry off the plate and taking a bite. You're pretty certain the flavor is raspberry and the heat and sweetness feels like a balm on your aching heart. 

It is also then that the realization that you hadn't eaten all day catches up with your body, and you devour the sweet quickly, even licking the crumbs off your fingers and the corners of your mouth. 

The Blood Angel seems to take delight in your exuberance. “There we go! Now doesn't that feel better?”

You nod, but you also realize you have one more thing to ask.

Maybe he's seen Jophiel. 

So you text another message, carefully to omit anything too…classified. 

The Blood Angel hums as he reads. “I'm sorry dear, I haven't seen Jophiel today. He might've just gone out sketching and lost track of time, I'm sure he'll turn up eventually.”

You bite your lip, but nod in agreement. Sometimes when stressed he went out sketching to calm down. There's nothing more you can do here so you bid farewell to the kind blood angel and make your way elsewhere, specifically to the cantine.

Your appetite has at least somewhat come back. So you suppose trying to find something to eat won't hurt. 

You shuffle into line, get some of the scrambled eggs, bacon and toast left over from breakfast, and sit down at a table by yourself. The room's not full by any means, but there are other people and space marines milling around. 

And yet…as you pick at your food, you honestly feel so…alone. You take out your phone, and check again, like you've been doing all day at this point. 

‘Hey guys I just wanted to check in to make sure you're okay. Text me back when you've got a moment.’ Sent, not delivered. 

‘Ghosk and Shatterwing helped me get to the medbay, I don't see any of ya'll here. I hope you're alright.’ Sent, not delivered. 

‘Khopesh, please pick up. I miss you…’ Sent, not delivered

‘I hope you're all okay.’ Sent, not delivered

You actually feel tears begin to prick at your eyes. You…don't want to be alone right now! You want Khopesh to hold you, and tell you everything's going to be okay. 

You want to hug Jophiel and tell him you're so So Sorry, for making him take the brunt of your psychic backlash. You want to tell him you're so sorry for scaring him, and ask him desperately what you could do to make it up to him. 

You want to hug Claude and tell him how proud you are of him for fighting back even before you realized you could use your powers to help him. 

You want to hug Olly and talk about candy and chemistry and rocks with him, and tell him he was so brave and smart and kind for what he did for you. His bright smile and cautious hope when you talked to him about it- rather than shutting him down had- well. It had been kind of cute and sad in a way.

You want to hug Cedric who always liked hugs, but felt awkward about asking for them. And who always took care of others but had a hard time asking for comfort for himself. And you want to bake a cake with him like he offered. 

And then you want to share that cake with him, the boys, and Karlsor who was a cussy and foul mouthed bastard at times, but he Cared so damn much and it honestly kind of hurt to think he felt the need to cover it up with piss and vinegar. 

You want to see Ramiel, you didn't know him as well as the others, but you saw how he fought so hard, taking blow after blow and getting back up to keep his brothers safe. 

You want to see Thressl and Nanael alive and well, especially after going through literally getting their heads messed with!

Hell, you'd even jump up and give Kerubial a hug, grudge be damned you'd just be happy to see him alive!

You just-

SPLOOOSH!

Your spiraling is interrupted when something wet suddenly douses over your head. It smells like strong alcohol, and it soaks down into your clothes. You couldn't move while your brain was processing  what just happened. 

But some clarity comes to you when you hear a chorus of loud howl like cackles from a table off to your side. 

“BULLSEYE! NOICE SHOT ALGERET!” One of the Space Wolves crows at your misfortune. 

You slowly turn with the liquor still dripping over your frame, until you can fully see the bastards responsible. 

The Space Wolf in question is losing his mind with laughter, in his other hand, an empty flaggard or cask or Whatever the vessel for this stuff is called. “Ah sorry wee little mortal! I just got a bad twitch in this here arm!” He chortles making a similar motion for emphasis, meaning he'd thrown the liquor on you at a distance like you would toss grimy water out of your horses buckets. “But ey, you looked like you could use a drink so No hard feelings right! BWAHAHAHAHAHA!”

The whole space wolf retinue at the table break out in even more boisterous laughter and all at once everything else in the cafeteria falls into the background. 

You pick up the plate that still had a few bites of scrambled eggs on it, without even really meaning to you feel thrumming surging power channeling from your shoulder to your arm, you wind back while the wolves are still utterly distracted by their laughter. 

And you pitch the plate directly at the main Space Wolf with an Unnatural amount of force, it hits the collar of his armor, and shatters on impact. Some shards rain down, and the rest hit his dumb fucking face.

There's one beat where nobody moves…

One…

Two…

Three…

Then all hell breaks loose. 

…

The air in the meeting room is heavy, as it is time to finally take the votes. 

“We shall follow the order of the table. Each of you can say your vote and expound upon it if you deem it necessary.” Anrir declares. 

“Will you and Apothecary Hura be voting as well?” Ramiel asks, and the proposition does make the older Marines contemplate for a moment. 

“Should we do so?” Anrir asks the Death Guard who is stroking his chin.

“Hrmm, we were involved with the previous incident of the Grey Knight causing issues…I suppose we could indeed cast a vote…but what side should I cast to is the question?” Hura hums before continuing. 

“If he lives, we net ourselves a powerful psycher, upon which Many tests and experiments can be run. As well as a new…worker.”

“If he dies, we can still test him, and his body and organs could be quite…useful.” Anrir supplies. 

“Both?” 

“Both.”

“...”

“...the fuck do you mean Both!?” Karlsor snarls 110% done with this nonsense. 

“Language Karlsor, and Consider each of our votes split, 50/50.” Anrir explains. 

“As whether he lives or dies, we will receive something from it.”

“So…there's effectively one vote in each category to start with?” Claude asks. 

“Precisely,” The elders say in unison. 

“But you young ones must choose one or the other. Though…I think most of you wouldn't end up splitting votes anyway.”

Alright then. First at the table next to Hura is Cedric, who stands and speaks first. “My vote is that we eliminate this Threat.” He stands tall and firm in his conviction. 

“I agree with what Khopesh said earlier, the Grey Knight cannot be trusted.” He growls. “If he is allowed to remain, he is just as likely to pose a danger as the possible Custodes, if not more so as he will want retribution for his defeat.” Cedric says, before returning to his seat. 

Nanael stands up next. “I agree with Cedric, besides…who's to say Jophiel's vision was referring to us needing the Silver Bastard himself? It might mean we need the bastard's weapons or armor to ensure a good outcome, and we don't need him alive to use those.”

“We can find other ways to protect Lullaby that don't involve leaving a kidnapping, mind squeezing bastard alive where he can hurt more people.” He finishes, then sits back down. 

Next up is Jophiel who stands with more hesitancy. “I…cannot in conscience vote for the Grey Knight's Death.” He says, shifting nervously. “I understand where my Brothers are coming from. And maybe my vision is faulty…”

“But I have already made the mistake of dismissing Lullaby's struggles once. I was cold to them for nothing they had done, or had any control over…” Claude puts a gentle hand on Jophiel, it does help sooth him a little as he continues. 

“I will not dismiss this. That there is some bizarre chance or outcome where their fate relies on the Grey Knight being allowed to live…however much I Loathe him, and his actions.” Jophiel states, and sits once more. 

Next is Claude. “I'm sorry Brother,” He says quietly, namely to Khopesh. “I know you fear the Knight may try to take us again, but I have known Jophiel, and his visions for many years. As well as dealing with my own.” He says, and his tone becomes even more earnest. 

“I do not love Lullaby as you do, nor do I fully understand your connection even now. But I Do Care for Them. I would consider them…a friend.” He thinks, and indeed it is true. He enjoys your company and the way you reassure each other when the progress or lack thereof in psychery made you both upset. He appreciates your humor and your hugs and the thought of you coming to harm makes him want to Break something. 

“And if Jophiel's vision implies the Grey Knight will somehow be needed to preserve their life.. then I will not take the risk of killing him. No matter how satisfying it would be.” Claude sits, letting out a breath and trying to relax. 

Olly runs his hand over his rock, before standing for his turn. “I…do not do the best with words. But I know that Lullaby…is a good human being…”

“I have barely known them a day…yet they risked their life and secrets to save us. They spoke kindly to me, let me speak of my interests without judgment or reproach.”

“I…would also call them my…friend. And they are in need of protection. As much as I would love to Recalibrate the Grey Knights Brain!” Olly hisses, before pulling himself back into order. “I will…refrain from doing so. So that Lullaby may be kept safe.” Olly returns to his seat. 

“But the moment he steps out of line I Will recalibrate him. Mark my words.” He adds on the last part before Ramiel stands to take his vote. 

“I vote for…eliminating the threat.” He states, though even he seems unsure of his choice. 

“It is as Cedric and Nanael have said. He has tried twice now to take my brothers away by force.” Ramiel explains. “There is no guarantee that even if we Do leave him alive, that he will not simply try again once he has the opportunity. That or he may simply refuse to help us outright and remain a stubborn captured fool as he is now.”

“Not to mention I Saw the way he looked at Lullaby. He caught sight of them…just as I was using my Tempormortis.” Ramiel shuddered at the memory. “In his eyes there was nothing but Rage and the desire to Kill. I didn't understand it at first. But now that I do, and that he must also know about their abilities…I think he is too dangerous to be kept alive.”

“As for the possibility of the vision. My brothers and I have…experience in not being found by those we wish to avoid. We can and will hide them until the threat is dealt with or thrown off the trail. Part of me…truly does hope we can avoid a confrontation with a Custodes if at all possible. For all our sakes.” Ramiel finishes, making a quick religious sign, much like how humans would sign the cross when afraid, as he sits down.

Custodes are to astartes, what astartes are to baseline humans. He would fight to protect Lullaby if he must- but the Custodes would easily be able to kill them. He’ll poke around for stories- but he’s got a nasty suspicion that Custodes are generally given whatever the hell they want so they go away. Also- in the history books, whenever a Custodes lands on a battlefield it’s recorded as a success before they even do anything.

Next is Kerubiel. “Live, but do Not misunderstand me.” He hisses. 

“I have nothing but Spite for the Grey Knight, and that human is a pain in the ass but…” He huffs, it takes setting aside a great deal of his pride to say this. 

“What is true, vision or not, is the gravity of the Custodes power and might. We are no match for them, even if we trained for years, and used everyone at this table, it is very likely we would all Die.”

“I vote live, because keeping the bastard alive may be the only way we survive.” Kerubiel finishes. Then sits. 

Thressl is next. “I'll be honest with all of you. I'm not sure I believe in visions, or the overwhelming power of the Custodes. I'll believe that they're powerful, but they still Live, which means they can Die.”

“I believe we can hunt it! We just need the right plan and method. And those weapons we snatched off the Silver Bastard should help us nicely!” Thressl continues passionately, “Custodes- while heavily augmented are still human! Which means that they can bleed, that they can die.”

“And I agree with Cedric and Nanael. The bastard is a rabid dog, but unlike an animal his death shouldn't be quick and merciful. He should be torn limb from limb for what he tried to do.” Thressl emphasizes his statement by pounding his fist on the table, before he returns to sitting. 

 

Second to last is Karlsor, reclining in his seat and decidedly more quiet than the others have been. “Fuck you I'm not standing up and giving some pretty speech.”

“Death, the bastard tried to steal our Scouts once. Then he came back and tried again. He's run out of chances in my book as for Lullaby…” Karlsor's expression softens a bit. “Visions can be full of shit, but if need be we can hide them till the gold fucker is dealt with.”

With Karlsor's vote taken care of, the ratio was currently 5-6, favoring death. All that just leaves the final Night Lord to cast his vote. 

Who is still fidgeting with the destroyed stress toy because…he's kind of a wreck right now. And everyone can see it. 

“Why don't we step out for some fresh air.” Hura offers making his way to the door. “We have been cooped up in this room for a while.” Also he can see an impending mental breakdown coming

Which Hura and Anrir and Everyone honestly can tell is Not going to help anyone's mental state. So Hura cracks the door open to the shielded room. 

The moment the door opens a chorus of pings come in on various voxes, namely the Night Lords. They expected a few messages could be missed or arrive late due to their presence here but it's Who the messages are from that surprises them. 

And to no one's surprise the moment Khopesh reads your string of messages he has to hold himself back from bolting out the door. 

No, the one that does that is actually from Ghosk and reads, ‘Stop messing around and tattoo your mate already, I had to chase three idiots off them, then drop them at the medbay.’

“Khopesh wait!” “Where are you going!?” “Bastard don't run in the hallways!”

But their voices are far behind him as he flies down the nearest set of stairs, were there an option to jump down to the lower floor directly he would have sailed himself into the air in a heart beat. 

Instead he jumps, scrambles, and runs full pelt down the stairs till he reaches the first floor, and guns it for the medbay. The others are slightly behind him. 

But before he can reach his location, he catches a glimpse of something going on in the cafeteria. A commotion that has several humans and Astartes hunkered down outside, and…cleaning food off themselves??

He wouldn't have bothered with it beyond that except he sees a familiar face engaging in what can only be described as a food fight. 

Scratch that it's more like a dinnerware death match as he sees you red in the face, and furious pitching plates and food at another table who's pitching the same back. 

Khopesh…doesn't know how to react to the sight before him, and it gives the others enough time to catch up. 

And they similarly…don't know how to react. “What in bloody hell?” Thressl asks, but no one can answer. 

Luckily only the younger marines seem paralyzed by this event, as Hura (with Cedric not far behind) and Anrir enter the disheveled cafeteria. 

Hura takes a deep breath inward before letting out the loudest most authoritative shout you'd ever witnessed. 

“ENOUGH!”

Everything goes quiet as you realize whose voice you just heard. You whip your head and see Anrir, Hura and-

CEDRIC!

You drop whatever mush of food or plate you'd been holding and make a beeline for the Primaris Black Templar. 

“Lullaby what on earth happened are you-Oof!?” Cedric lets out the sound more from surprise than actual exertion. You're too busy grabbing him in a hug to care right now!

Cedric's okay! Cedric's alive and okay! You feel relieved tears welling up in your eyes as you hug the Space Marine as Tightly as you can. The sobbing irritates your throat but you Do Not Care! 

Cedric is still a bit lost but after a moment…he thinks he can fill in the gaps. He hugs you in return and strokes your back comfortingly. “It's okay…I'm here now. We're all still here.”

That makes you pick your head up, and you glance around Cedric. You feel your heart light up in an instant!

Claude, Olly, Jophiel, Ramiel, Nanael, Thressl, Kerubiel and Even Karlsor and Your Khopesh! They're all here! They're all Okay!

You feel a whole new bucket of happy tears pour down your face as you race to the other Primaris. 

Claude accepts your hug eagerly, though his nose does wrinkle a bit at the smell on your clothes. “Lullaby? What happened to you? And what’s that smell?” You shake your head. It is hug time not rant time, not like you could do so anyway. 

You move to Olly who shifts his rock to one arm, and embraces you as well. “I am not sure what has happened but I am happy to embrace you.” Even one armed, his hug is tight and loving, and you nod in agreement to his statement. 

Jophiel actually leans down, and takes the initiative after Olly has had his turn. He says something quietly to you that makes you almost break down again. “I'm sorry for pushing you away. You didn't deserve that, can you ever forgive me?”

Forgive…him? You should be apologizing but you'll do so when you can talk. For now you nod shakily and pull the Blood Angel into a hug. His wings wrap around you too, and it further reinforces that he is really here and alive. 

Nanael gives you a quick embrace with his arms and wings as well. “You did well, little one. Thank you, for everything.”

Thressl ruffles your hair, and chortles that “You're tougher than you look! And scrappy to boot!”

Ramiel accepts a hug with a quiet but sincere “I'm glad you're okay too.” You nod, glad the tears give you a reason to not talk, because even with a working throat you'd be beyond words right now. 

And lastly of the Primaris…Kerubiel. Who has stayed slightly further back from the group. He glares at you.

“Don't look at me that way!” He hisses, but you know what? Grudges be damned, you're happy to see him alive and kicking. You open your arms. “Don't you dare- don't you-” Too late you give him a firm squeeze, which he acts soooo disgusted by…but doesn't pull away. Also you know how fast Astartes can move, he could have avoided your hug if he really wanted to.

“Fine, fine , whatever! Just…stop hugging me already…” He grumbles, and you do as he asks with only…moderate smugness. He very gently gives you a hug back, its quick, but warm, firm and a gentle pat on your head.

Finally you turn to your Khopesh and Karlsor. You're so happy to see both of them! You reach your arms out fully expecting Khopesh to pick you up so you can hug and kiss him…

Only for him to cross his arms, which makes you bring your hands down a bit. Did…did you do something wrong?

“Lullaby…my sweet darling, Love…” Oh you did not like that tone. “Could you please tell me Why,” He breathes sharply, before continuing. “You left our Nest which was Safe, secure and stocked with food…to walk alone through Nightlord territory, get accosted by some bastards who Will be dead men walking when I find them, have to go to the med bay as a result and then…start a Food Fight in the cantine!?”

You blinked…did Khopesh really believe you…wanted to do this?? Your expression morphed from disbelief to frustration in an instant. 

You hold up a finger to imply ‘One moment,’ before typing a message on your phone. 

‘You left me in a dark room Alone, locked in by myself, scared and confused. Not knowing if you Or the boys were okay after yesterday! Seriously, a note or text would have been appreciated! Oh and hurt because Guess what my throat looks like after yesterday! Shatterwing called it and I quote “Redder than a tech priest taking a mud bath on mars."’

“Wait really?” Khopesh asked. You nodded firmly then opened your mouth as you'd done for Shatterwing. 

“Shit that looks awful.” Karlsor hissed in sympathy. 

‘Which yes Shatter and Ghosk helped me because I was hungry and my throat hurt like a bitch so I couldn't and still can't talk. And then I got nasty throat spray, and then I got locked out of the kitchens so I couldn't even distract myself with baking and then I just wanted to sit alone and eat and cry AND THEN I GOT ALCOHOL TOSSED ON ME!!!’

‘Also there was no food in your room because!’ And you showed a picture of Karlsor's note.

“Shiiiit….”

Khopesh slowly turned his head to his Claw member. “Karlsy….” He chirped in a voice that was not at all friendly. “What-is-this?”

Karslor actually seems nervous and embarrassed. “You can fuckin read can't you?”

“KARLSOR!” 

“Fine! FINE! I’M SORRY! Not to you fuckface you need to stop taking my sunglasses! But…I Am Sorry the food thing ended up making your day worse kiddo.” He sighs with frustration and scratches the back of his neck. 

You smile, and you pull him in for a hug too. He sighs again, more calmly. 

“Thanks kid, I'm glad you're…well not alright but you're still alive.” He pats you on the shoulder and gives you a quick side hug back.

You nod. Then turn back to Khopesh. 

He seems more calm now…less angry. But he also seems tired. “I'm sorry my love. Today has been…exhausting. And after yesterday… I have been tormented by the thought of losing you.” He says seriously, placing a gentle hand on your face. 

Oh…Khopesh…

Of course…of course your sweet one would feel vulnerable after what happened. You'd both literally been feeling the exact same fear for the other, the fear of losing someone precious. 

So you lean into his touch, you take your own hand and press him closer, kissing his palm. Then you draw hearts with the pads of your fingers, which makes your Khopesh smile. 

You lift your arms again, and this time he acquiesces happily. He holds you close as you kiss him sweetly across that handsome scar on his mouth; trying to reassure him even while you can't use your voice. 

I'm here. I'm safe. I love you. He chuffs and purrs, nuzzling you despite the pungent scent of alcohol still clinging to you. You press back into each touch in turn. 

“But for now…” He sighs, equally relieved and tired. “Why don't you tell me about the Nightlords who accosted you…and the silly Silly fools who doused you in…” He gives you a quick sniff. “Mjod…?”

Thressl approaches and gives you a smell too, “No doubt about it, that's Mjod! Who in their right mind would waste a good drink like this!?”

“Hey now…keep that Shit away from me!” Your group takes notice of Algeret snarling at Cedric.

And Olly's face suddenly takes on a strange…blankness. He turns without a word, and walks into the cafeteria. The others in your group, you included (while still held by Khopesh), follow him with your eyes, and crowd around the entrance to see what he's doing. 

“I am merely informing you that given your recent behavior I might have to consider euthana- I Mean…Sedation, if you do not calm Down Algeret.” Cedric says calmly, but there is a terrifying malice under his words, as he brandishes a syringe. 

While you were giving out hugs, Cedric had properly turned his attention to the individuals at the other table. He has a professional smile on his face, but his eyes are cold- colder than the homeworld of his Gene-father.

…what a Pleasant surprise he feels when he sees Algeret and his gaggle of idiots sporting bruises and cuts from the dinnerware. Such rude and rabid dogs should be put down.

But right now they would need first aid, and as an Apothecary he was only Too Happy to provide.

“Now listen here you! You've got this all wrong! It was the human who started this!” One of the others pleads, as if he'd ever believe them. 

Olly, who had put the pieces together between the scent on you, and Algeret's-fucking-voice, had stalked into the cafeteria with his recalibration rock in hand. He could be slow at times- but this, this was too far. He’s annoyed and frustrated that they go after him. But going after a baseline? That’s not okay. At all.

And the more he looks at Algeret and his cohorts stupid fucking bully faces the more angry he becomes. Not to mention them trying to claim you'd somehow started this altercation. As far as Olly cared the Wolves could mock him all they wanted and lie about it after. He was used to it. He could handle it. 

But they went after You. Someone smaller, and weaker, and even had the Gall to hurt you when you were already hurting and then tell Lies about You! He wasn't having it! 

“ALGERET!”

He shouts, actually startling Cedric from the anger in his voice

“I KNOW YOU FUCKERS! You go after who you think you can get away with bullying!”

Olly snarls, hefting his rock up.

“And then you go and tell Lies!”

He slams the stone down, cracking right through the tile on the floor, and sending waves through the ground. Olly immediately wrenches his rock back from the new gaping hole and raises it once more without breaking a sweat.

“I can do some manual mental recalibration to give you better personalities! Who's first!?” 

Olly knows he’ll need to clean up and do reparations for breaking the tile and making a new hole- but at the moment he doesn’t fucking care. He’ll deal with the consequences of his actions. It would be worth the scolding and shitty duty shifts and whatever other punishments that will be heaped on him to make Algeret and his fucking bastards fear for once in their misbigotten lives.

“HOLY FUCKING SHIT!” Karlsor swears, while Khopesh seems to be beaming with pride. 

Cedric is…honestly impressed with how terrifying that display was, and he wouldn't mind giving his shy sweet brother cousin the chance to Crack some heads open, especially these shit heads. 

But…it would be a violation of due process, and even here at the Chaos Base, that could get Olly in trouble. 

“Steady there Olly. We don't want to fatally wound them…yet.” Cedric says calmly, stepping slightly forward but not actually putting himself between his brother cousin and the Space Wolves. 

“They are LIARS! FILTHY LYING MANGY-FLEA RIDDEN DOGS!” Olly snarls, but to his credit doesn't move closer…mostly because he respects Cedric. “And they must ANSWER for their MISDEEDS!”

"Misdeeds!? Bah! You ain't got a shred of proof Ya Dumb Fuck! And if ya touch us without due process you'll be court martialed!" Algeret snarls. 

“He truly is quite brattish, isn't he?” Anrir asks Hura, both elders deciding to…watch the show as it were. 

“Quite…I will remember this at his next physical.” Hura decides. Then smiles when young Oleanderos leans closer and snarls at the Space Wolves again, while Cedric makes no Real attempt to stop him. 

“So it was you who poured alcohol on my precious?” Khopesh hisses, and you…don't completely like how he's smiling.

Because if he decides to pick a fight he might cause more property damage, and get in trouble. You couldn't care less about the Space Wolves catching the business end of his fists otherwise. 

Khopesh meanwhile is debating putting you down so he can Give the Space Wolves that business. He does loathe the idea of losing physical contact with you given the day he's had, but ripping out some nasty mean wolf teeth Might be worth it. 

Could present them to you as a gift after…hmm but would you like them? He knew you'd appreciate the gift on principle but the teeth would need to be cleaned first. 

“You hurt Olly then you have the fucking Nerve to hurt my brother's special human?” Claude growls, stalking forward. “Hey Olly, can I have a turn with the rock?”

“I will gladly lend it to You Claude. But I get the first swing!” Olly growls back. The Space Wolves are looking distinctly more afraid, despite being technically correct about due process. 

Nanael comes forward as well, his wings seem to twitch juuuust a bit. Like a perched predatory bird seeing prey scurry into a hide. “You Know there are cameras in this room right?” He states smoothly. 

Jophiel follows Nanael's example but on the other side to his fellow Son of Sanguinius, further flanking the wolves. His wings appear more tense than Nanael's as if he's expecting the wolves to strike out at any moment.  “And even if the cameras somehow missed your…unfortunate choice. I'm sure the other witnesses would have no issue recalling what you did.”

“Hey! It was an accident!” Another of the wolves barks.

“Accident or started by the human?” Ramiel presses, also coming forward. “And by the human you mean the one who is smaller, weaker, and was at the time experiencing mental distress when you chose to douse them in mjod? Or when they somehow incited you to douse them in mjod? Or you did so by some accident? Which is it, Dogs?” 

He’s pulling on his Chaplain training and is using his I Am A Chaplain Do Not Lie To Me Voice. He puts his hands on his hips and frowns sternly at the rude pack of Scout Space Wolves.

“Not to mention you wasted good drink!” Thressl piped up. “And you claim yourselves sons of Russ, feh! What a joke!”

“Like you're even worthy to say our father's name, you Half Breed!” Algeret snarls in response. 

Thressl is more surprised than insulted, his eyes narrowing a bit- these shitty little first born bastards think they are all that. Feh. One of his hands twitches- oh he’s going to make these shitty brats pay.

“Bite your fucking tongue you flea bitten DOGS! You don't call him that!”

Kerubiel hisses angrily, charging forward and getting into their faces without touching them. 

You lean forward even as Khopesh is holding you up. That comment made you mad too. You debate sending out your mycelium to make the wolves cower. But…that would exacerbate the problem. 

Hura and Anrir glance at each other briefly. While they were enjoying the show- things were about to turn messy. Neither side backing down- and the way the Primaris Marines shoulders had shifted a little- unless stopped violence was about to happen and then all of the Scouts would have to be punished, not just Alegret and his squad.

Alright alright time for the adults to get involved. “Call off your puppy Hura, we do need to wrap this farce up.” Anrir comments quietly, which causes the Death Guard to sigh with a “Very Well…Cedric!” 

Hura's call isn't angry, just loud enough to get the young Apothecary's attention. “Yes Apothecary Hura?” Cedric answers, in an instantly less hostile tone. 

Hura and Anrir amble over. “This situation is likely to end in a brawl if it continues. As satisfying as it would be to see you Mulch these naughty puppies, I believe Anrir and myself should handle it from here.”

You notice Cedric's shoulders slumping in slight disappointment. “Very well…everyone, please step back!” Cedric instructs in a voice you recognize. It was the ‘everyone better listen because the doctor is talking dammit.’

Olly and Thressl growl, Claude and Kerubiel hiss under their breath, Nanael's expression shifts to a scowl and there seems to be an odd displeased trilling sound in his throat. Jophiel and Ramiel don't make any noise outright, but they don't look pleased either. They don't continue advancing. 

But they don't move back either. 

Well Shit. 

You glance over to Anrir whose expression does seem a bit…not surprised but maybe mildly annoyed. It's probably not the first time he's had to deal with Scouts not wanting to back down. But once he notices you looking he ambles over to where you're still being held by Khopesh. 

Hm.. time to switch tactics. The boys are listening- but still too angry to truly back down. Time to redirect their energy and focus on something more productive and less likely to cause property damage.

“It is good to see you awake and aware.” Anrir states smoothly, while Hura and Cedric work to de-escalate. “Seems you've had quite the day…two days rather. Would you mind to elaborate?”

Khopesh shifts his hold on you a bit. “They cannot speak at the moment. Their throat is injured.”

Anrir turns to you and you nod to confirm. “I see…I was hoping to get your recount of recent events.”

“GET FUCKED YOU MANGY FUCKING DOGS!” “CLAUDE LANGUAGE!” “IT IS TRUE THOUGH!” “You all need to Step Back.”

“...And I was hoping as the ‘injured party’ you could help call off the Scouts. They seem rather consumed by bloodlust at the moment.” Anrir says dryly. “I would prefer to avoid more property damage if possible.” He sighs heavily, knowing he'll need to help pull the Scouts back to make that happen. 

“...” Khopesh notices your expression shift to one of deeper thought. 

If you can focus your power into a muscle to increase your strength, maybe you can focus it into other areas of your body. 

You take a deep inhale, and focus. You pull on that thread of your power, and instead of moving it through your arm and shoulder, you migrate it up to your throat. 

There is a feeling of warmth, and…you feel the twinging pain in your vocal cords alleviate. 

Just a little, you'd used a great deal of power when you were throwing plates so you only had so much to work with now. But it was enough. 

“B-boys…please, Stop.” You manage to get the raspy words out, your voice is still wrecked but you can talk…just not very loudly. 

“EVERYONE BE SILENT!!!”

Khopesh snarls in a voice that actually startles you and brings all attention to him. 

Everyone goes quiet and turns towards Khopesh, even Alegret and his squad stop shouting and look over towards the yelling Night Lord.

But Khopesh continues.

“Lullaby has something they must say. It PHYSICALLY hurts them to do so, so you BETTER LISTEN OR I WILL RIP YOUR EARS OFF FOR YOUR IMPUDENCE!”

…Wow. You feel both frightened and…yeah not the time to think about That feeling let's get this taken care of.

“Boys…cough cough!” Yeah Khopesh was right about the physically hurting part. “Please don't do this. I…appreciate you wanting…to help and do right by me…”

“But getting yourselves court martialled…won't help. We need to let the Apothecaries handle this one.” You explain, then your expression shifts as you regard the space wolves still huddled in a defensive ring at the remains of their table. 

“As for you all…I don't know why, you did what you did. I don't know why you saw someone who was already hurting and decided to hurt them more…but it doesn't matter that I don't know.”

“It will matter to Ash'val or Melinthe or whoever handles the punishment for you bastards.” You sneer, as best you can in your voice then turn back to the Primaris.

“These mangy brats aren't worth the disciplinary action ya'll might face. So…please?” 

A pause follows your request, and you hold your breath. 

The first one to move is Claude, but he sighs and nods, finally stepping back. But not before growling under his breath at the wolves. “You're Lucky Lullaby has a point.” He huffs, before returning to you and Khopesh. 

Olly follows similarly, grumbling under his breath. “You get off easy this time. But try something like this again, and you will be recalibrated.” He promises darkly. 

“That is if," Nanael posits, walking back past the wolves with fine posture. “I don't get a hold of you First. Keep yourselves in line next time.” Then he rejoins your group.

Jophiel's wings finally seem to relax a bit and he follows Nanael, though the glare on his face could make a Khornate Berserker take pause. 

Ramiel also doesn't say a word more. He simply follows Jophiel while keeping unflinching eye contact on the wolves. 

Kerubuel hisses one more threat under his breath. “You're going to pay for that half-breed comment.” Then stalks back to the door. 

Thressl chuckles. “I'd sleep with one eye open lads…Keru doesn't do idle threats.” He follows his cat like brother leaving only Cedric, Hura and Anrir near the wolves. 

“That means you too Cedric.” Hura states which causes the young apothecary to become confused. 

“Will I not be aiding you and Anrir with these…individuals?” Cedric asks, momentarily worried he'd done something to displease his mentor. 

Hura chuckles. “No no my dear boy. The past two days have clearly weighed on you.” He clarifies. “I've seen ten thousand young apothecaries ignore their burnout. And I can tell that is what you're doing now.” He says firmly. “I want you and your brothers and little Lullaby to take some time to relax. Perhaps you could finish your picnic?”

Cedric perks up, sometimes it still shakes him that Older Brothers can actually care about him and his fellows. And yesterday was supposed to be a mental reset and socialization day…it was supposed to be. “That is very kind of you, Apothecary Hura. Thank You.”

“I think it would be better for the Scouts and Lullaby to stay on base for now.” Anrir interjects. “Given the recent…excitement, I think a trip to the Soothing rooms would do Wonders for everyone's mental state.”

You tilt your head curiously. “What's a Soothing room? -cough cough” You ask, followed by more coughs. 

Khopesh coos, with a “Hush, you must rest your voice my sweet one.” And nuzzles you again. It is a strange feeling as he finds your raspy voice both cute and troubling. 

Cute in that you're trying your best to communicate while injured, so your earnestness makes him melt. But also you're injured and every word reminds him how you've been hurt today and the more he thinks about that the harder it will be to not go rip out those teeth. 

“But to answer your question they are well…decompression rooms of a sort. They have a number of items and features to help groups of Battle Brothers engage in mutual relaxation, and preening.” Khopesh explains. 

Oh, that sounds interesting. “Like a spa room?” You clarify, then your stomach growls. “And uh…is there food in them?”

Anrir smiles at your sheepish question. “There are light snacks, but food is not restricted from being brought in should you want to order something more.”

You feel yourself flush with relief. A spa day with food sounds Amazing after the day you'd had. 

Plus as much as you loved Khopesh, you didn't want to go back to the nest right now. It still felt too dark, even if being with him would make it easier. And…maybe it was silly, but you also didn't want the Primaris boys out of your sight for a while. 

“Let us be on our way.” Khopesh purrs, “We'll make a quick stop at the nest and get you some fresh clothes. Then I'll spend all day Pampering you appropriately.” 

You smile, “Not if I pamper you first.” You shoot back, “I hope the rooms have face masks, and hair stuff. Hey have any of you tried exfoliating face masks before, they feel Amazing…”

The dialog trails off as Anrir fondly watches you, and what is effectively a retinue of Scouts make their way out of the still Very messy cafeteria. 

Now…back to business. The ancient Night Lord turns to the Naughty little Puppies who incited the mess in the first place. “Now that that is settled. I believe the Best course of action would be setting you puppies to work cleaning up the mess you've made. Is that not a fair course of action Apothecary Hura?”

Hura hums cheerfully. “Indeed, I say that is a fine place to start. Followed by a proper report of this incident to their commanding officer, and the Loyalist offices in General.”

“Hold on now! The human's the one who actually did something violent!” Algeret protests. “They threw plates! It was a complete overreaction!”

It would almost be cute if Anrir wasn't already irritated about his current project being jeopardized. He feels a nerve in his head twitch at this…display of disobedience. He understands a bit better why the boys were getting… close to violence with these idiots.

“Not to mention! Y-you haven't got a shred of proof that it Wasn't an accident! And there's a clear conflict of interest since that little bitch is shaggin one of your men!” Oh now That comment made Anrir more testy, not that he let it show. “You've got no right to hold us here!”

“Oh but I think they have every right.” A familiar voice calls out dryly.

Anrir and Hura turn their attention to the new voice who enters the room. They both recognize it though. 

“Apothecary Zariel…what a pleasant surprise.” Anrir greets the ‘Ultramarine’ politely. 

The ‘Ultramarine’ gives a polite nod in response. “I happened to be on survey duty today, and you'll never guess what I saw.” He grins darkly. 

“The security cameras showed me a very interesting event. A group of Space Marines sitting at a table, only to toss a pint of…some substance on a human sitting alone at a neighboring table. Followed by what appears to be laughter, before the human retaliated by throwing a plate. The rest is well…” Zariel trails off as he glances around the room. “Fairly obvious.”

“Make no mistake, the human will be informed that their actions in response were not ideal, but You are indeed guilty of inciting the incident in the first place. No matter how much you whimper otherwise.” Zariel lets a Little bit of a Hydra sneer come into his voice. Just a tad. 

“The files have already been reported to Captain Ash'val as well as Captain Horlux of the Black Legion. Further discipline will come from them, but for now.” Zariel's look becomes very intense very fast and he strides over to a nearby janitor closet, before yanking it open. 

“Start Cleaning, Now.” Zariel orders, his tone brooking no argument, and obedience was to happen sharpish.

As soon as he saw drinks dumped on the human he started sending messages to people to help de-escalate the situation, especially since the human started throwing plates at the Scouts. One of his squad mates took over camera monitoring duty as he raced over to the cafeteria to see what he could do to stop the situation. His brother’s warning about the Primaris and their understandable ire had him moving faster.

The Space Wolves grab the items inside and begin cleaning without another peep. 

Anrir is impressed. And Hura voices the same feeling. “My my Zariel, I didn't know you had it in you.”

Zariel smiles. “I guess you could say there are many things you don't know about me.” He settles in next to his fellow Apothecaries to watch the Space Wolves work out their first part of their punishment. 

Algeret and his fellow space wolves sulk As they clean up the room. Their Scout Sargent, a very very busy Thousand Sons Psyker who's teaching Almost A dozen psykers of various levels of training across the Eras comes by quickly, once he's gotten the message. He looks a little frazzled as he heads towards the Old Apothecaries, “I heard there was an Incident with one of my… Oh, not you boys again.”

He deflates a little when he sees its that band of Space Wolf pups who barely listen to him and make snide comments about “how dare a witch think he can discipline us.” More Than once. While he might seem A bit soft On them part of his problem is this group of Scouts Don’t listen to him well. 

“Having troubles with these Pups?” Zariel asks, noticing the look in the younger Astarte's eyes.

“Is it that obvious?” He responds dryly, pinching the bridge of his nose. 

Anrir raises an eyebrow, but in truth he is sympathetic, he remembers how difficult it was to find his footing in his role as Father to his Night Lords. And having to balance his Apothecary Duties with care and discipline for his sons. 

The much younger Thousand Son is clearly hitting the same walls he had. Not to worry though. “If you would like I can give you some advice for instilling…more acceptable behavior.”

The Thousand Son Marine glances up. “I…cannot say I am opposed to the idea…” He hums, glancing back at the wolves. “I worry I have been too soft. Too forgiving. Too distracted. Between my psychery training assignments, and them. I am at my wit's end.”

Anrir smiles. “Worry not, young cousin. I will Gladly teach you how to take this in hand.”

The Thousand Son smiles in relief, not noticing how the wolves feel dread creeping over their guts. 

“I would be honored to listen to your words and get help with such things, elder cousin,” the Thousand Sons Scout Sargent replies politely as he tries to smooth over the ruffled feathers caused by one of his Scout squads- as well as get some more training. He starts to discuss punishment, discipline and what could be done as restitution for what the squad had done. 

What the fuck had they gotten themselves into? 

[kit-williams]

The Space Marines and their Darlings (so far)

I have to thank @ghouljams in the way they do sorta OC pov's and have to 100% give them credit for how I've been able to write the Yandere Space Marines without making full blown OC's like I really want to.

It will go Brother x Darling maybe I'll turn this into a masterlist once I'm done

Dark Angels Azazel x Mortal/Pet This one will probably change as Azazel and his Darling were before I embraced the OC pov idea/got the ball rolling

Emperor's Children Palion Hiss x Muse

Iron Warriors Harram the Wallbreaker x Orichalcum or Ori for short

White Scars TBD

Space Wolves Captain Arkyn x Elskling (darling in norwegian) The pack won't be mentioned here as Arkyn and them were before the OC darlings pov sort of thing but just there are 4 females, 2 males, and 1 gender neutral (referred in the story as they/them) darlings

Imperial Fists TBD

Night Lords Ghosk Sevyrarek x Rabbit

Blood Angels Sirus Amah x Moonlight

Iron Hands Vauth x Byte

World Eaters Zul x Spaseniye (Salvation in Russian) or Brass Lady

Ultramarines Tulio x Psychi/Psychoula (greek for Soul and the diminutive version of soul) When you realize you never gave the darling a nickname

Death Guard Solos Phorgur the Reaper x Lovie

Thousand Sons TBA

Black Legion TBA

Word Bearers Jihias Kinreaver x Lamb

Salamanders TBD There will be two

Raven Guard Sor Delyn, Kazi Delax, & Moremo Klaek x Dove

Alpha Legion TBA

Black Templars Brother Roland x Bäckerin

Carcaradons Tyberos the Red Wake x Ophelia

Dishonorable mention Mechanicus 91-Yrac x H3X (whom he calls sweetspark)

[kit-williams]

Funny thing

So I've been seeing the "how would Fanon misrepresent your characters" or if your OC was a canon character how would it be grossly misrepresented.

First of all... ya'll are willing to forgive the boys and just call them little meow meows!

I can see ya'll forgetting Brother Roland's sins

I can see ya'll making Tulio into a sadder wetter cat or like some blustering shy boy and not a Veteran Tyranid fighter. Psychi I can be seen as being turned into some action girl sort of deal.

Harram would become like Dad... and Ori would be like mom.

Arkyn would also probably get "oh but he's a good boy"

Palion could be turned into like some sadistic horrible monster towards muse; SAME with Ghosk to Rabbit; and probably Nakht to Birdie.

Let me know what hot ass takes/Fanon misrepresentations of my boys or girls. This also can include husbandry hot takes too.

Tags to share the fun: @bispecsual @egrets-not-regrets @moodymisty @bleedingichorhearts @liar-anubiass-blog @thevoidscreams @barn-anon

[kit-williams]

Hi! Just popping by to say that I've very much been enjoying your yandere astartes boys! Tulio and Roland are my faves, though Ghosk is a close third and the others are a lot of fun!

I also love your space marine husbandry posts as well! 10/10 great reads

And your fluffuary stuff has been wonderful to read

Thank you so much! Hopefully I can see your non anonymous likes and comments on my fics!

They are a lot of fun to write as I have tried to make sure that all of the boys are all unique and mesh well with their darlings and that the ones who are reader inserts are very good inserts and the ones who are Ocs are good vehicles for the vision I have.

Husbandry has been a wonderful exercise for me so I'm glad they've been a good read.

Fluffuary was another exercise in the fact I could write more than just yanderes and sexual tension

[kit-williams]

Poll Storage

Polls related to the 40k-D&D au inactive New focus poll inactive COD integration won Are my polls too long inactive Yall are fine with week long polls Cope fic Au? OC: Goblin? Inactive yes but my own time Taglist inactive ya'll want a taglist so be it OC Focused Fics inactive the oc fics count towards the chapters Price Space Wolf or Ultramarine inactive bloody tie Trying Price Poll again! inactive Space Wolf he's a space wolf Mood boards inactive we're doing mood board Space Marine Husbandry inactive So gonna keep using the tag but will also add #Space Marine Husbandry Sentience Plan Change inactive Ya'll understand Healing Prompt? inactive Yep Tulio is once again getting a prompt Reverse Husbandry au inactive yeah making another au Which boy is 100% Sane and well adjusted inactive Ghosk First Kiss poll inactive you people love ties Picnic poll inactive Ultrahusband Pheromone Spray Part 1 First Kiss part 2 Pheromone Spray Part 2 Husbandry Lewdness Poll First Kiss Part 3 How to tag the lewd poll probably going with carnal bond

[sleepyfan-blog]

I very much enjoy your dark writing - both the dark stuff that stays dark, as well as the dark stuff with a positive twist to it. Both are wonderful reads and something I very much enjoy reading.

Your OCs feel distinct from one another, and I love the quirks, personality traits as well as the different flaws and virtues each of them have. I also love the twists on each of their characters that you've made.

For example: Arnault and Roland. Both of them are Black Templars. Both of them have tempers.

But beyond that, Roland has an obsession with bread and is incorrigible (/positive) with his beloved.

Arnault's journey of self-discovery in Husbandry and coming to terms with his bond with Angela, what he wants with that bond and her, and how he reconciles this against his training is a delight.

Another example is Ghosk! He's a foul-mouthed, winged and chaos-corrupted Night Lord who has fixated on a mortal woman. Does he enjoy teasing and tormenting her? Absolutely, but that's not the only thing that he enjoys doing with her. He does love and care for her in his own way, and protects her the best that he can.

Your smut is fantastic. You have excellent descriptive details without it going into purple prose, and your kink writing is delightful

What I do

Like I know I write dark stuff but like I know I usually add a hopeful or happy? twist

Idk I'm just like been reading everyones great stories and just been wondering if my stuff is still good

I know ya'll will say my stuff is good just idk im just feeling a bit self conscious

[kit-williams]

Ghosk finally making an appearance! Old ass night lords being scary motherfuckers!

Khopesh: What if we used uncontrolled violence to solve the problem

Anrir: Maybe however-

Claude: *Prophecy of your girlfriend dying*

Anrir: yeah that's why not

also horny chaplain was funny

12 Angry Space Marines or Lullaby's No Good Very Bad Only a Little Good Day - Part 1

First! A big thanks to @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan for helping write this beast of a piece. And to @sleepyfan-blog, @kit-williams and @egrets-not-regrets for use of their various characters.

Previous Chapter Here!

Next Chapter Under Construction

First in the entire series Here

Warning: Talks of violence, a very sore throat, threat of torture near mental breakdown and some mildly sexual talk.

Tags! I Hope you all enjoy!: @kit-williams @sleepyfan-blog @egrets-not-regrets @felinisnoctis @bispecsual

@passionofthesith @beckyninja @bleedingichorhearts @barn-anon @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan

@jaghatai-khock @virozero @angronsjewelbeetle

Summary:

Lullaby awakens alone, and injured. After everything that has happened the thing they want the least is to be alone. But try as they might they can't seem to get a message through to their loved ones. Meanwhile, the Scouts and the veteran Apothecaries get ready to take a vote on the fate of Stormbreaker, who they now must consider allowing to live if his survival truly is intertwined with Lullaby's.

You feel yourself drifting, swirling in patterns of darkness then back to mild lucidity only to be pulled under again. The same cycle repeats. Voices loud and quiet- demanding- requesting, questioning.

“SHUT UP!” “Fucking LOW BRED WITCH WHORE GOTHIC CURSING GOTHIC cursing-””Who is this Really!?” “The first psycher of the Baseline populace.” … “Their vitals are normal…at they need now is rest…” “I will take them to bed..”

There was the feeling of being swaddled in dark, familiar smelling blankets. The feeling of cool lips pressing to your cheeks and mouth. “I will return soon my darling…”

“..no….please, st…ay…” You tried to reach out but your fingers barely moved. You weren't even sure your throat was making words. You were so tired…so Tired…So Tired…

Khopesh cooed, brushing his hand softly against your cheek as you fight the force pulling you down. He thinks you look cute, while you feel about to cry. 

“Shhhhh, rest now,” He purrs, bringing his face down so he can nuzzle you, he presses another kiss to your lips. You feel momentarily soothed by the purrs rumbling in his chest as it presses to yours. 

“..s..t..ay…” Your lips move a little at least, but Khopesh seems to think you're just trying to kiss him back.

“When I return…I will give you my Full Attention.” He chuckles, allowing himself to indulge for a moment; he presses his tongue softly past your lips. Another kiss, just a small but intimate taste, he tells himself, just to tide him over until his lingering business with the Grey Knight is decided. 

You don't mind the kiss, but you mind what it means as he pulls away. But it's too late, you're already sinking ... 

sinking…

sinking…

A feeling like humming electricity, an overcharge, Grasping so hard onto Jophiel…followed by a scream so sharp it burned like-

M O L T E N  G O L D 

“HUAh! -ACK COUGH cOuGH!” You bolted upright gasping, hacking and coughing as your throat burned. Your eyes could barely parse the darkness but, you knew the bed your were sitting (coughing hacking dying??) At least…

Water, fucking hell I need water!

The typical water bottle you kept at the bedside was pretty much empty. You hobbled down from the bed, feeling along the way until your hand wrapped around a familiar handle. 

You pulled open the door to the Astarte grade mini fridge, grabbed a hydration ration and chugged it. The too cold liquid hurt as it touched your inflamed throat but the relief to your thirst powered you through it. 

Finally the ration was half empty and you pulled off, sucking in air which further irritated your pipes. Lord above what the Hell had you Done to yourself?? Your throat hurts- and the cold makes it harder to drink and you cough, which hurts.

Then the memories caught up with you properly. Ah right. A Bastard in Silver, a battle, your frie-

HOLY SHIT WHAT HAPPENED TO EVERYONE?!

They were all standing at the end, surely they're fine surely, Please Please PLEASE BE OKAY DON'T BE HURT DONT BE DEAD GO-

BREATHE DAMMIT!

You slapped yourself trying to get your mind in order. You glanced around the room that now at least had some Minor illumination from the fridge light. And a dizzying combo of relief and excitement runs through you as you spot your bag hanging where you normally put it when visiting. 

You're glad you can leave the fridge door propped as you scramble over to your bag and dig through it. There are things that you need to make sure you still have your mind going through the list as you grab each item.

Keys, Wallet (not your goal but you're glad it's there), Charger, Hairbrus- PHONE!

Oh thank the lord above! You think, as you frantically open it. 

Missed calls and texts from your parents…Shit. 

Okay okay Breathe, B R E A T H E, Your fingers tremble as you open the messages. 

‘Hey Lullybird, just checking in. When are you going to be home?’ 

45 minutes after the first message. 

‘Lully can you answer the phone??’

‘Bear, please pick up.’

15 minutes after that.

‘I'm starting to get worried! If you don't pick up your phone I'm going to drive to come find you!’

‘Your mother means it Bear, please answer.’

‘LULLY!’

5 Minutes Later 

‘Hey Hun! Khopesh texted to let us know you had too much fun at the picnic yesterday and passed out. So that's why you weren't answering your phone.’

Oh thank God, your Mom and Dad aren't making a panicked rush to the base. And they don't know about your near death experience. So that's two problems off your shoulders at least. 

And if Khopesh could text them that means he's safe. You feel even more relief flooding your system and uncoiling the Awful tension you'd been feeling. 

At least partly, you still didn't know the fate of the Primaris Marines. 

‘Next time please text Before you fall asleep after having too much fun!’ 

‘Yeah, just because you're Bear doesn't mean you get to hibernate for 6 months and not answer your phone.’

You smiled and rolled your eyes. You decided to type a quick response. 

‘Sorry to worry ya'll, I promise next time I'll text you Before I party myself into passing out. You text. ‘I'm okay, the partying hard also left me pretty tired even now, so I'm gonna chill at the base for a while longer. I should be home later today. I also want to check up on the new friends I made yesterday.’

A response was sent quickly from your mother. 

‘Turkey Butt…but I'm glad you're okay. See you later.’

‘Love you Bear Bear, see you later.’

You typed back. ‘Love you Both! See you soon.’

Okay…now to the main issue. You wanted to find the Primaris Marines. Sure if any were badly injured they'd be getting care from Anrir and Hura. Cedric was a fantastic apothecary in his own right but…

Gurgle…

Okay, one of the main issues, even if the Primaris were fine you Wanted to see them. Maybe it was a disconnect in your brain but sometimes you felt the need to see things to be certain of them. 

Like clicking the door lock of your car three times instead of one. Or double checking the stove was off. 

G U R G L e….

Seems your stomach was doing its own double checking; so you'd need to see to that too. You rub your stomach a little, sheepish with how loudly your stomach complained.

Khopesh should have some non-perishable snacks around. He always kept a supply. A memory of your beloved menace floats into your mind.

‘Just incase there's a shortage. I have lived through them before by the skin of my teeth when I was small. I got thin enough to see my ribs, luckily there was always at least a few rats and bugs running around…and a few corpses here and there. They didn't taste very good but Eh, more reason to be prepared!’

Hearing him say this so cheerfully and matter of fact practically broke your heart. It was part of the reason you wanted to make sure your cake was perfect. You want to make sure that he doesn’t have to worry about starvation.

He deserved the best you could give after that kind of life.  

And that Silver Bastard  R U I N E D it!

You feel your skin prickle with rage, a familiar rumbling grows in your ears as your muscles tense and your jaw twitches. 

Bz-zt Zt!

You're startled from your seething when the fridge light flickers violently with a sharp electric sound. Then it returns to normal as if nothing happened.

That…was weird… A bizarre thought comes to your mind, especially given what happened yesterday. Did…you do that?

If your powers could pour out of you as a scream, or travel through Jophiel like a ground rod, who's to say they can't affect electronics? It's all energy at the end of the day, particles traveling on waves or through conduits, and those waves being able to enhance or weaken each other….

Bringing up these topics to Anrir is third on your list, you decide. Food, Check on the Primaris boys, tell Anrir about science wizard shit. Karlsor did say that sometimes imagination, or lack thereof could be a limiter on psyker abilities.

You're still dressed in your clothes from yesterday, save your shoes but those are easy to locate. You sling your bag on your back, finish the hydration ration, and open the cupboard beside the fridge where the snacks are kept-

There are no snacks….What!?

You feel around in the darkness, thinking perhaps they're just pushed back only for your hand to brush against something papery. 

You pick up the slip of paper, and read it by the light of the fridge, and your half charged phone. 

This is what you get when you take things that don't belong to you Fuckface! Stop stealing my fucking sunglasses, and you can have your food back. 

Sincerely, Karlsor 

P.S. Fuck You 

Followed by a crass doodle of Karlsor sticking his tongue out and flipping the bird. You facepalmed with a groan.

Dammit Karlsor, Of all the times to pull a dumb shit Prank!

Oh well you wanted to leave this room anyway, guess you're doing it on an empty stoma- 

The door handle wiggles a bit, but doesn't turn. You jostle it again hoping it was a fluke…but the movement (or lack thereof) stays the same. 

You must be fucking Joking!? A frustrated wordless shriek/growl builds up in your injured throat, as you fruitlessly shake the handle of the electronic door lock. 

Okay new plan. You whip out your phone, and start texting. 

But as you try to send your messages of ‘Why am I locked in here?’ And ‘The fuck is this??’ with a picture of the food note, followed by ‘Hey Claude, Khopesh locked me in his room can you help me get out?’, And finally ‘Your Gremlins have done a fucking mischief please help!’ To Khopesh, Karlsor, Claude and Anrir respectively…you feel a bit of that prior anxiety creeping back in. 

None of the messages send properly. You try resending, deleting and rewriting, closing the message app and trying again, restarting your phone even! But every time the messages seem to hit a brick wall. 

What the Hell!? Your parents miles away from the base could get your messages, but four people Inside the base couldn't!?

Something wasn't right. 

You turn back to the door. 

You don't know what is happening, but you can't stay here. But how are you going to open the door?

Your mind drifts back to the moment with the light in the fridge…maybe? You kneel so you're eye level with the lock. You feel along it with your fingertips. Perhaps… you could try to do something?

You can't see things the way you did yesterday, but as you pull on your power, you notice the faintest…shimmer slide across the lock. As if your mycelium was invisible except for that nearly imperceptible visual feedback. 

And based on what happened yesterday it was pretty much confirmed that only You and others using warp sight could actually see them, even when boosted to near maximum power. You had heard that sometimes pushing past your limits- or near enough can help with a break through, but that doing such things could be dangerous if not properly watched over and the person cared for during and after it happening.

You remember the Silver Space Marine's murderous rage. How it'd felt not just to See the intention on his face, but actually Feel how he wanted to destroy you. The glare you could feel through the blue visor had been chilling.

The anger…the Malice, you stopped yourself, feeling nausea bubble in your empty gut, you needed to focus on the task at hand. 

You aren't certain how much to push, but you knew how to give a zap so… You remember what Karlsor said about Visualizing what you want your roots to do. Feel them reaching out- extending along a path.

Bzzt-ZAP! The lock clicks, and you swiftly turn the handle, and step out into the hallway. 

The Night lord Hallway. The hallways of the base designed for Night Lords, likely by Night Lords, even if they might not have built it…perfect. The darkness and the twisted architecture here hadn't frightened you for a while, but then again…you'd always come here with Khopesh. 

But other Night lords had human companions! You have an uneasy, sinking feeling in your stomach. You shake your head a little bit. Surely you'd be fine just…just follow what Claude said, when you'd asked about the faint green lines that trailed along the floors of these areas. 

‘Those are for navigation, see how they have arrow shapes cut into them. Follow those, and you can get back to the communal base areas.’ Claude helpfully pointed out- showing you the navigation lines. ‘The green was chosen as it could be seen- even by baselines in the more dimly lit areas of the base- without being considered ‘garish’... Also a word of advice? Do. Not. Run. In this area of the base.’

Follow the green lines and arrows. Okay, you can do this. You Can Do This. 

You take your first steps and wince at the sound of your own shoes as they pad across the floor into the dark. Shifting your bag, and holding it tighter to yourself. 

You'll be fine. You'll be fine. You chant to yourself.

You also firmly (try to) ignore the feeling that you were being watched. You don’t see anyone or hear anyone- but you have experience. You will see or hear your watchers precisely when they want to be seen or heard, and not a moment more.

…

Meanwhile in a meeting room on the upper floors of the Base, Anrir and Hura had gathered their Scoutlings for a meeting. Some of them are standing, others are sitting. Once they are all seated the oldest of the gathered marines speaks up.

“I suppose you would all like an answer as to why I've asked you all to come here?” Anrir posits, folding his hands together as he sits at the table. The other seats are occupied by Hura, Cedric, Ramiel, Nanael, Olly (and his rock), Claude, Jophiel, Kerubiel, Thressl, Karlsor, and Khopesh.

“Give us some credit, old man -Oof!” Kerubiel mutters snidely only to be elbowed by Thressl.

Thressl shakes his head when Kerubiel shot him a glare, snark and sass at this point in time would be a dumb idea. The Dark Angel smacks him back, but doesn’t speak for the moment. Things were tense- and they just found out a big secret. Who knows what Anrir or Hura might do to them with knowledge of something like this.

“We can make an educated Guess, it's to do with the Grey Knight correct?” Cedric answers to which both Anrir and Hura nod. 

“Indeed, we will need to decide what his fate shall be for his ahem … transgressions.” Hura explains. 

“There are a number of factors to consider, namely the benefits and consequences of either keeping him alive, or…”

“Killing him, Slowly…” Khopesh says with a grin that is equal parts gleeful anticipation and frustrated Rage. His claw-like nails were on their way to digging trenches into the table.

“Khopesh do not damage the base's property.” Anrir commands sternly. “Here, dig into this, not the table or your skin.” Anrir tosses an astarte grade stress toy to his…exuberant son who catches it easily, and begins squeezing and digging his claws into it as he'd been doing with the table. 

But his focus doesn’t waiver as he addresses his father. “I care not for the bureaucracy of keeping him alive, or his benefit as a psycher. He has committed an unforgivable act. Incurred an unpayable debt for what he did to our Claude, our Scouts and my Lullaby! Allow me to extract his Meager value from his dying screams in retribution! I will even keep his body usable for you.” He promises, switching to Nostraman so the others wouldn't understand that part. “Please father, allow me this. I crave-No! I Must make him Beg for the mercy of the grave-!”

Claude has been learning Nostraman, and caught his words, he keeps his face neutral- at least Khopesh remembers that waste not, want not includes making sure that organs and other useful pieces can still be harvested, if the Silver Bastard is killed.

Anrir holds up one ancient yet unmarred hand to stop his son from continuing. “A compelling argument my son, but it is not only you he has wronged. The Scouts deserve their chance to speak on these matters as well, given they were the ones most hurt by his actions.”

Khopesh huffs, but doesn't argue, simply responding with a, “Yes father.” To which Anrir nods approvingly, then addresses the other Scouts. 

“Khopesh has given a good example as to why I've brought you all here. I encourage you all to speak freely, One at a time of course.” He explains, then gestures to the room. “This room is shielded, no transmission can go In or Out, your words will only be known to those in this room.”

Hura picks up the conversation. “We shall be taking a vote on the fate of the Grey Knight. You will each get a chance to speak your vote, and if you deem it necessary, elaborate upon it.” 

Now Thressl scoffs a bit. “I don't think we need a whole meeting fer this? Let's just gut the Bastard an’ be done with it! I'm sure all of us have got better things to do than sit here.” The Space Wolf insists. 

Claude shifts uncomfortably in his seat as he speaks up. “I…don't think we should be so hasty.”

This actually causes some confusion, the others in the room turning to the adopted Night lord. While he did not want to be merciful- Jophiel’s words- the vision he had made him… reluctant to kill the bastard outright. For not at least.

“Claudy?” Khopesh asks, uncertain and maybe just slightly mildly frustrated, why his little brother who had been so full of righteous fury suddenly seems so much more subdued.

Claude took a deep breath, “Before we take the vote…there's something you all should know.” He states, standing and gesturing to Jophiel to do the same. “Go ahead,” He says, placing a comforting hand on the Blood Angel's shoulder. 

Jophiel also takes a steadying breath, his wings flex and settle with his nerves before he addresses the room. “I…had a vision…after I helped Lullaby ground the overflow of power they experienced.”

“I saw many possibilities; things that might already be, or haven't been yet, or may never be. The uncertainty is…frightening but the clearest of the images was thus.” Jophiel explains. “A monstrous being of gold, awakes from its slumber, it stirs at the ripples that flow outward from the melody. It hungers for b-blood…” Jophiel stammers a bit, but grounds himself with Claude's hand. “It awakens to Strangle the Melody in the cradle, to make it silent once more…”

“And the worst of outcomes are more likely…if Silver tarnishes into rust…”

The room is mostly silent, the Scouts seem confused by Jophiel's riddle speak…all except for Claude, Khopesh and Karlsor. Karlsor starts swearing under his breath while Khopesh's grip on the stress toy had increased with every word Jophiel spoke until-

POP!

The scoutlings look upon the Night Lord who appears like he's about to pop himself. Still gripping the destroyed item in his fist. Ah- visions are always complicated- and sometimes true, sometimes untrue, sometimes only partially true. But could they take the risk of discarding Jophie’s visions?

No one moves. 

At last Anrir clears his throat. “That was the Second reason for the shielded room…I'm afraid your recent incident with the Grey Knight isn't the only…event of consequence we will need to discuss as we take this vote.”

“Tell me…have any of you Scouts ever heard of a being known as, A Custodes?”

…

Walk, just keep walking, just follow the lines on the floor. 

Walk, do not run, running activates the prey drive and you're Dead. 

Walk, keep your head up to not look weak, but not so far up as to imply arrogance. 

Your thoughts swirl around, and around. The feeling of being watched had only increased as you'd followed the green lines. You had to tamp down on the urge to bolt (walkdontrunpreydrivedead), and even more so on the urge to use your powers. 

Would they do you much good in this situation?? A zap could help but then you'd have to be touching whoever was looking at you, and they might be a psycher so then they might realize it wasn't just static electricity- 

You feel your heart pick up speed with excitement as you see the doorway you knew would lead you out of this place. Away from the eyes of those with unknown intentions. 

Walk Do-Not-Run 

And you're close. You grasp the handle to the door and start to pull. 

“Leaving so soon?” 

The gasping scream you would've made is smothered by your sore throat as your other hand is snatched up in an unfightable hold. You're pulled up and back from the door, then swung around roughly till the movement stops and you can gain your bearings.

A deep navy blue ceremite clad hand is holding your arm, leaving you dangling like a child holding a teddy by the arm, only your toes are touching the floor. You glance back to see a short haired Nightlord with criss crossing facial scars grinning and chuckling in a way that makes your stomach ice over. 

You look forward and see two more shapes come into focus from the darkness. Two more Nightlords, one has his helmet on, the other looks…almost stately in appearance with well groomed stark white hair, and seemingly unblemished skin. 

“My my Myyyy, it seems you're even more…homely in appearance up close.” The white haired Nightlord purrs, going as far to pinch your Nose between his gauntleted fingers! 

He was actually pinching with a decent amount of force, enough to sting. And as he shifted his grip it actually felt like he might try to break it, before tutting at the pained whines you tried to hold back. “Oh come now Pet, don't take it so personally…homely can be Charming after all…in its own way.” He chuckled, releasing your nose, and straightening his posture.

“They Are Cute! Tiiiiiny and fragile,” The Night lord holding you up purrs sickeningly, bringing his face next to yours so you're forced to inhale his breathe, you try not to breathe in so much. “Whatcha wanna do with ‘em Faust?”

Faust hums, and drums his fingers on his chin fucking casually. “Well…there are just so many options. But I Think I know what I want to do First…” He states, and brings his hand to your face again. This time he snatches your cheeks into a little  too tight hold, forcing you to look him in the black, eyes. 

“A question…Why were you such a Rude little human?” You blinked, clearly confused but Faust did elaborate. “I Know you felt us watching, yet you didn't run. You denied us our Chase. And then you have the nerve to not even Scream, when dear Mephis snatched you up? You're either incredibly Dense or Incredibly Stupid.” 

Didn't those mean the same thing??? But Faust went on “So tell me, What is going through your empty little head?”

You were flabbergasted, but before you could even attempt to open your mouth, the other Nightlord who hadn't spoken once finally sighed. He sounded bored and exasperated. “Really Faust?”

“SHUT UP CHIROP!” Faust's voice turning from posh yet sadistic to full on snarling bile actually startles you…though maybe not just you if the twitch you felt from Mephis was anything to go by. Chirop seems to hesitate, before glancing away. Faust turns his attention back to you, and the stately gentlemen act comes back over him. “Well? We're waiting…”

You're not even sure what's trying to come out of your mouth, maybe a Huh? Or a What? But your sore throat chokes ot to nothing, leaving you flailing like a fish on a line, wincing and grasping your throat.

Now it’s the Night Lords turn to look confused. “Are you Mute as well as stupid?” Faust askes with a slight sneer.

Okay, fuck you bastard, you thought but shake your head. You bring your hand up to your throat and press your fingers to the sore spots from the outside. 

“You got Choked?” Mephis asks, confused.

Okay fair misinterpretation, you shake your head again. You bring your hand up and make a scratching motion at your throat.

“Oo! OO! I got it! Your neck is itchy?” Mephis puts forth before…bringing his other hand up, and…scratching at the back of your neck??

It was a bit roughly done, but actually didn't feel too bad. Still no though, you shake your head again. What other motions could you make to get the idea across?

Chirop sighs then growls. “For Curze's sake their throat is injured! Like Scratchy? That's why they can't talk!”

“Oh…” Mephis nods with understanding…still scratching the back of your neck. “That makes sense.”

Faust seems a little miffed by the explanation, and let's out a huff. “Well…that's disappointing…” Then a new look comes over his face, one that brings back the curdling dread in your stomach. “But…it also means no one Else will be able to hear you Scream…” He brings his grinning face full of bright sharp teeth down to your eye level. 

It's at this point Mephis stops scratching your neck. “Well yeah…they just explained they literally can't scream.”

“MEPHIS YOU ARE A BRAIN DEAD IDIOT! BE SILENT” The snarling bile came back, and this time you notice how Mephis flinches more obviously when the white haired Nightlord turns his vitriol on him. Faust huffs then brushes his hair back as if trying to compose himself. You notice how the third less chatty member of the group had flexed his claws, and leaned forward when Faust chastised Mephis. 

Interesting…and you actually Almost feel sorry for him when the Nightlord holding you mumbles out a quiet. “Sorry Faust…”

Faust seems to notice Mephis's unhappiness, and lets out a sigh. “You know I adore how…charmingly direct you are Mephis dear.” He cooes, now saccharine in his wording. 

It makes you want to vomit with how clearly Fake it was. 

“But it Can also be…tedious, and you Know how I feel about tedium, don't you?” More sweet empty cooing, you're third wheeling your own shakedown…Great…

You glance to the other third wheel with a look of confusion. He just shakes his head, and you figure he's rolling his eyes. His fists were still clenching and unclenching though.

“So…why not break up the tedium by…playing with a new toy? Would that make you feel better, my big strong lunk head?”

Okay now the dread comes back, and you did Not like how Mephis's expression changed to one of excitement. 

Chirop speaks up again. “Faust, you know who this one belongs to...”

Faust scoffs. “I don't see a tattoo anywhere, do you Chirop? Is the tattoo in the room with us?” He remarks snidely. “Or maybe that's just the opinion of yours that I didn't ask for. Besides…”

“I doubt one of Anrir's lap dog bastard sons would care if we batted around his current sex toy for a bit. He doesn't even care enough to mark them, so they can't be That important…”

You ears fill with rumbling again like before, causing This Smarmy Fuckers words to trail off into background noise. 

First he calls Your Khopesh a lap dog bastard son, then has the Nerve to insinuate that Khopesh doesn't Love You?

The man who threatened to fight the literal reason for your trauma? (Even if you'd convinced him not to.) Who gave you love and affection and banter and made you feel beautiful inside, outside, in bed, in life, introduced and integrated you into his Family for fucks SAKE.

“Hell they'd probably spread their legs for anyone who offered them safety, If they were even smart enough to think of doing so that is.”

Honestly you thought this fucker had found the straw that broke the camel's back? BUT DAMN he just keeps finding more!

You're done, you are Done with this bullshit. You've shot straight past fear and now you are going to make them-

P A Y...

Mephis you can tackle through the hand still held in his grasp but the others…

(!) And that's when it hits you. You feel your toes touching the floor, almost as if you were dancing en point. You focus, pulling on your power, and pushing it through your legs. 

As the two Nightlords continue their chatting about all the awful things they might do to you, you watch the shimmer and shift of the air as you feel the mycelium spread. 

You suppress a determined smile when you feel the subtle change in sensation of it making contact with the Nightlords. The shimmers crawl up their armor and you imagine your mycelium grasping and tangling around their Necks.

They're not psychers, you can feel how low their warp power is.

So you'll just have to drain their life force instead. If giving energy causes a boost of Vitality, draining it must do the opposite. And you weren't going to lie, the thought of these bastards dropping like flies in front of you sounded Very Appealing right now. 

You'd still need to be careful, pulling too fast could cause a zap, which might give you away. That you could not risk. It’s working. You think to yourself, pleased.

You do allow yourself a light grin seeing the shimmer on your roots become slightly more visible. You also notice how the conversation of the Night Lords has changed again. 

Namely that it's trailed off, Faust (bastardfuckfacedeadmanwalking-) swivels his head around suddenly. 

“Did you two…hear something?” He asks, actually sounding a little worried. 

Mephis looks around as well, you can feel his grip loosening as he loses focus. “Hear what?”

“Maybe it's Another opinion you didn't want to hear.” Chirop growls, more tersely, perhaps his response to your roots draining him is more anger than Fear. 

“Will you Shut your Stupid FUCKING MOUTH CHIROP I'M TRYING TO LISTEN!” 

“Is the sound in the room with us right now Faust? BECAUSE ALL I'M HEARING IS YOUR ANNOYING FUCKING VOICE!”

Mephis actually seems very distressed by this outcome. “Stop it! Both of you! We're not supposed to fight each other!”

“SHUT UP MEPHIS!” “NOT NOW MEPHIS!”

“DO NOT, GIVE HIM ORDERS!”

“OH BECAUSE THE ONLY ONE ALLOWED TO GIVE ORDERS IS YOU RIGHT!? CURZE'S SAKE I SHOULD'VE-”

“LIKE YOU HAVE EVEN A SHRED OF WHAT IT TAKES! IT’S NO PICNIC MANAGING YOU TWO IDIOTS! YOU'RE LUCKY TO HAVE SOMEONE AS CAPABLE AS ME TO KEEP YOU BOTH ALIVE AND FED!”

“PLEASE!” 

“SHUT UP!” “MEPHIS!”

Bingo, the other two were at each other's throats and the third was steadily becoming more upset which would hopefully lead to him dropping y-

“Shut UP I'M TRYING TO THINK!” 

“But I didn't say anything Fau”-

SMACK! 

Your world falls for a moment as your feet hit the concrete floor, with the rest of your body following. You roll scramble back to standing as soon as you can. Claude and you had practiced how to roll and fall properly so that you didn’t hurt yourself.

Just in case some asshole might try to grab you- from Astartes height-. Your jaw however stays fallen open as you realize what just happened. Faust actually struck Mephis across the face, who's now doubled over covering himself while Faust continues to berate him. 

“I said SHUT UP! AND QUIET YOUR INCESSANT WHINING IT'S GRATING ON MY NERVES YOU DOLT!”

“Sorry Faust…” Mephis whimpers. 

That…he can't be… If Any of the Nightlords you knew pulled something like that…Any of the Astartes you knew even! The one in Mephis's position wouldn't be apologizing! He'd be throwing hands!

Or someone would be throwing them on his behalf!

You glance back at the other Night lord who does look ready to KILL the white haired Asshole, but you notice the way he hesitates. 

Mephis briefly looks at him, and shakes his head, which seems to be the only thing holding Chirop back from committing a good old fashioned homicide. 

What the fuck kind of dynamic had you walked (been dragged) into? As much as you would love to break the prissy platinum blond bitch's nose you knew you didn't stand a chance, even one to one, but if you go for the door now, they'd probably snatch you again before you made it three steps.

For now, you had managed to keep your focus even while being dropped, so you keep draining. But you are Primarily focused on Faust.

Could anyone blame you? 

The white haired Night Lord seems to grow more paranoid by the second whipping back and forth until…his eyes land on you. 

You freeze, half from fear and the other half you still feel that bubbling seething rage in your very Soul. 

“Stop it- Stop Staring at me you little Freak!!” He snarls, maybe he can subconsciously sense what you're doing. You don't stop though.

You Like seeing the FEAR in his eyes.

Faust actually starts laughing, without humor and without breaking eye contact. “Oh OhHO little whore iS DEFIANT EY?” He giggles, and you scramble backwards as he advances. “TIME FOR YOU TO LEARN, WHAT DEFIANCE GETS YOU-” Faust shouts while winding up his arm for a back hand. 

SLAM-M-M!

A huge dark shape interrupts Faust by Crashing down from above in front of you. The entry is followed by a piercing guttural snarl and the sound of flapping bat wings. 

“SHIT IT'S THE NIGHT HAUNTER! RUN! SCATTER!!!” Mephis cries, and scrambles away into the dark with Chirop not far behind. 

“YOU IDIOTS IT'S NOT THE NIGHT HAUNTER IT'S JUST-,” 

“Just…What exactly…?” A familiar voice breathes through the ghoulish looking raptor helm. 

Faust shuts his stupid fucking mouth, before having the Gall to bring out the polite voice again. “Ahh…Ghosk, what a surprise…”

“5….”

“I'm sorry what?”

“4…”

“Now wait just a minute this is All a misunderstanding!”

“3…”

“Which has already offended you so I'll just be on my way…”

“2-1…”

“FUCKING HELL YOU IDIOTS WAIT FOR ME!” Faust cries as Ghosk chases him back into the darkness, snarling and slashing claws practically at his heels until the younger Nightlord vanishes from your sight. 

You let out a breath you didn't realize you'd been holding. Holy shit that was scary. 

But it was also Satisfying. Fuck those assholes! 

Ghosk huffs into the dark, before turning back to you. You'd met this particular Nightlord and his human. Like you'd said before, Khopesh wanted to integrate you into his family. 

He was Oooold like Anrir, but a bit more crass like Karlsor. His jokes made you snort on more than one occasion. But right now he seemed far less jovial. 

Not like you couldn't guess why…

“This is no place for squishy little humans to be walking Alone. What in Curze's name were you Thinking?” He growled in a voice that was both exasperated and Tired. 

You open your mouth to respond, but only a bit of weezy air comes out as you try to speak. 

Shit that still hurt!

You fumbled around in your bag for your phone and typed a quick message. 

'Shit popped off yesterday, ask Anrir.' 

'Throat got fucked up, not in the fun way. Literally can't talk.'

'Got locked in a room without food.' You show the picture of Karlsor's note which causes Ghosk to actually laugh slightly followed by tired mutter of “Of course he fucking did that, for fuck's sake…”

'Need to eat And I need to find the Primaris boys, especially Jophiel, have you seen them??'

Ghosk shakes his head. “Sorry kid, haven't seen any of them since this morning. Just saw Anrir being tight lipped as usual, he was with Claude though. And I haven't seen the fluffy duckling in a long while.”

Ghosk notes the way your shoulders sagged in disappointment, before an itch hits your throat causing you to hack and cough like you had tuberculosis. 

He chuckles patting you on the back as your neck throbs from the air forced through it. “Come on little human. Let's get you to the medbay.”

THuMP! 

Another loud sound similar to when Ghosk had plummeted to your aid rings out. You whip your head in the direction, and Ghosk instantly goes into another defensive stance, a snarl is building on his lips until-

“What the heck is all the ruckus down here for??” Another familiar voice comes out of another familiar helmet. This one you recognize as a Chaplain, and the voice…

Ghosk sighs heavily. “Shatterwing…”

The Chaplain whom you'd met in passing holds his clawed gauntlets up plaintively. “Hey man, I just got here- Oh!” His eyes lock onto you, and he swoops in curiously. “Khopesh's little squeeze! But not a Khopesh in sight, what's up with you? You two have a fight?”

You open your mouth, but again nothing comes out. You point to your throat, and shake your head. 

“You didn't have a fight…you just can't talk?” Shatterwing asks, cocking his head. 

Damn you're tired. You finally decide fuck it, open your mouth as wide as you can, and even hook your fingers into your cheeks. You take one hand and point down your throat to emphasize that Shatter should look Inside. Which to his credit he does. 

“HOLY DAMNED WHORE MOTHER OF CURZE WHAT DID HE DO TO YOU!?!?”

The Chaplain shrieks causing you to startle a bit, ah well ... you certainly hadn't expected that reaction, lord above. 

“The hell are you yapping about now!?” Ghosk demands. 

Shatterwing points a trembling hand at you. “Their throat is redder than a tech priest taking a mud bath on Mars! What the hell did you and Khopesh do last night?? Were you trying to do something kinky and went too far or was this expected!?-” 

Thwack! “Don't ask them that you dumb fucking slut!” Ghosk growls after delivering a quick hit to the rambling chaplain. It was much less violent than the one you saw Faust give Mephis.

The Chaplain hisses back at the older Nightlord, you just…you just shake your head. 

“Wait, that's not what happened?” Shatter asks. “Then what did?”

You open your mouth, but then close it. You can't…really tell him. So you just shake your head again. 

“Oooooh I see…too embarrassed to tell me?” Shatter posits. You feel an embarrassed blush erupting over your face at the implications. “No worries little human, you don't have to give me details. Though I certainly wouldn't be opposed. I'd be impressed to find a partner who could leave my throat like that after a night of Passion.”

You facepalm, pulling your hand down your cheeks in exasperation. You're not escaping the freak allegations today it seems. Maybe better he thinks you're just into weird stuff, saves you the trouble of making up a proper lie. 

Ghosk just sighs tiredly again before telling Shatter to either be quiet or Scram, because he's taking you to the med bay. 

The Chaplain acquiesces to the former, but you can't escape the feeling of him eyeing you smugly as the three of you make your way there. 

Lord above it's not even 11 AM and the day is already exhausting…Lucky You!

[kit-williams]

Anrir around so many babies might give him ideas...

Loved the villain as it really does show that all of this is stressful for all the Astartes and well they don't do well alone. Sure you might be surrounded by battle brothers but they might not all be from your own time and well legion/chapter closeness can only go so far.

Loyalist villains are a treat my man did go full crazy to think he could make organs and servitors

Great story and oh no that Hydra is fucked

Do I Know You? - Part 2

Summary: While Lullaby spends their first days alone in a long while, Khopesh and the rest of his claw are busy on their mission. It's a matter of extreme delicacy, and importance as it involves the disappearance of hybrid children. 

Previous Chapter: HERE

Next Chapter: Not Here Yet

First Ever in the Series: HERE

Tag List: @kit-williams @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan (all of whom have amazing characters that make cameos here!) @sleepyfan-blog @egrets-not-regrets @legionsofthehungry

@passionofthesith @bispecsual @bleedingichorhearts @beckyninja

Location: Redacted 

Time: 11:00 PM

Current Objective: Pre-mission Briefing 

As Khopesh enters the briefing room alongside his Claw and behind his ‘father’ Anrir, he realizes there is a familiar face here. 

A portly Death Guard with a mouth of sharpened teeth on his gut, probably to replace the jaw decaying off his face. 

“Xerxes,” Khopesh greets the marine who smells of death with a sharp but genuine smile. 

“Ah…Khopesh….good to seeee…you once…Again.” He breathes, both mouths speaking in sync. 

The other in the room, an Ultramarine Apothecary, glances between the two. “You know each other?”

Xerxes smiles. “Indeed…Medeathe…we share some…common interests…” 

Khopesh grins. The absolute Cheek of older cousin Xerxes, implying their alliance right in front of a stranger. Well the Ultramarine is a stranger to Khopesh, he's not sure if Xerxes knows him better. They'd make an odd combo regardless, with Xerxes as a walking nurgle corpse and Medeathe practically the poster child for an Ultramarine, with his bright blond hair and deep blue eyes. 

As for the reason Khopesh and Xerxes interact…not like he can complain, he'd probably do the same. 

Xerxes continues his explanation, “And I often traverse ... .his neighborhood.”

“Haven't seen you as often though. Have you found a place with better leftovers to pilfer?” Khopesh chuckles. 

Xerxes takes the comment in good humor and lets out his odd lilting and slow laugh. “HaHaHa, Perish…the Thought…I have been…occupied with matters…of the home…”

Anrir perks up a bit at that. “So it's finally happened then?”

The others in the room perk up a bit at Anrir's apparent interest. 

“What's fucking happened?” Karlsor asks. 

Xerxes lopsided grin grows wider. “Ah…sharp as…ever…Nightlord…and Yessss.” Xerxes pulls out his vox and begins swiping through it. 

The Night Lords, save Ghosk, immediately crowd around the image being shown. Khopesh, Claude and Karlsor are curious as to what the older Marines are talking about, and Anrir does so for scientific curiosity…mostly. Ghosk doesn't want to bother leaning pushing his way into the crowd, but he does glance at the images being shown. 

On the screen is a baseline human and a tiny bundle with a face in her arms. Ghosk seems to realize something Khopesh doesn't and chuckles with a “Well I'll be…”

Khopesh and Claude don't really get it. “A baby?” Like sure babies are cute but plenty of bonded humans have them from previous pregnancies or adoptions. 

“Your baby?!” Anrir asks with an uncharacteristic, almost reverent tone.

“Holy Fucking Shit.” Karlsor mumbles. 

Xerxes beams with pride. “They're name is Vespa… my little Larva.” He says, cooing over the photos. And indeed in other pictures where the child is a bit older it's far more obvious the little one has mostly their mother's looks, but their bright green eyes and their mossy hair hint at their father's identity. 

Medeathe just stares wordlessly, perhaps he feels uncomfortable with the thought of hybrid children. 

Claude blinks. “Wait! That's actually possible?? For a human and an Astarte to…To-”

“Yes!” The Ultramarine breaks in on the awkward statement with a terse tone. “It is Possible, Scout. Do not make a scene.”

Khopesh narrows his eyes at the rebuke. Mild or not, he doesn't take kindly to people chastising Claude for no reason. 

Medeathe takes a steadying breath, and his next words are much kinder. “I apologize for my tone, Scout. But I've had that conversation so many times at this point it's driven me damn near the edge of my sanity.” 

Xerxes laughs again. “Indeed…there is a reason…at the clinic…they call you…the Midwife…” Medeathe rolls his eyes but Xerxes continues. “He is…the foremost…when it comes…to labor and delivery of…hybrid children. He was even consulted…during my mate's…premature delivery.”

Claude speaks up. “It is alright older cousin, I understand the headache of having to explain things more than once.”

Khopesh pulls back on his snark. Medeathe is right, baselines can also treat the subject of hybrids…poorly, and perhaps the Ultramarine didn't want Claude to pester Xerxes. He'll hold his tongue for now.

No someone Else was doing that already. “I knew when I smelt the pregnancy hormones from your mate on you. When was the due date! And how long was the gestation!? Were there any complications pre or post delivery? You must tell me!” Anrir asks with urgency. 

Xerxes chuckles and is about to reply when-

“Save the baby pictures for Afterward gentlemen. We have a matter of great importance to attend to.” A dark and gruff yet refined voice speaks from the doorway. 

The others turn to see a Black Legionnaire with a face of criss-crossed scars and a cybernetic implant that goes from his chin to his forehead. In fact it seems to go further, actually trailing along the marine's bald head and down to the back of his neck. 

“Captain Horlux.” Anrir greets, making a quick battle sign to which all the Claw members stand at attention and make way for the other marine. 

Horlux walks past, seemingly reading each of the Claw up and down. Claude feels himself sweat a bit, the Captain's gaze is intense, and his presence feels as if it has a pressure all its own. He briefly remembers how it felt being examined by his previous Raven Guard commanders. 

Just as Claude is feeling his stress rise. Horlux nods, seemingly satisfied with what he's observed and turns to walk to the front of the room with a quickly grunted. “At Ease.”

The Claw relaxes where they stand and move to gather where Horlux and the Ultramarine Apothecary are setting up the presentation. 

“I have Gathered you here to undertake a very important and delicate mission.” Horlux explains, and some images flash on the projector screen.”

Images of a warehouse appear, along with several images of different baselines and Astartes. They seem to be bonded pairs.

Khopesh smiles while a growl bubbles up in his throat. He remembers the rage he felt when he learned of the Chaos Blood Angels who would kidnap bonded humans to kill them so they could feel the warp backlash of the bond breaking. Then kill the Astarte if they'd captured them. 

“Easy Curzling,” Horlux hushes. “So far we know for a fact these baselines aren't dead. However, they have all been through a truly horrific experience.”

The next slides show the baselines; mostly social media or medical photos. Every single baseline shares one thing in common; they are all heavily pregnant, clearly near the end of their terms. The after was far more clinical, and each stomach that was once round with child now laid flat and empty. The only evidence on the outside of the previous state was a perfectly stitched scar. “We have reason to believe there are illegal experiments regarding Pregnant Baselines taking place at this location.” The coordinates flash up on screen.

“Your first priority; determine the fate of the missing offspring, extract any that remain alive. Second; capture the perpetrators alive so they may face judgement. Third; secure the scene and retrieve any and all documentation of their doings for evidence.” Horlux turns to the room. “Any questions?”

Claude hesitantly raises his hand. “I must ask, what Kind of experiments do we believe are being committed?”

Horlux seems to take a moment, seemingly debating what or how to explain. “All we know for certain is that our most recent victim was somehow taken and returned to her domicile without her nor her Astarte mate noticing. We have reason to believe some kind of sleeping or amnestic agent was used on both of them. When the baseline awoke she had no memory of the trip, and her child had been removed from her womb. Her mate rushed her to the hospital as soon as they awoke and discovered her state.”

Xerxes speaks next. “Do you think…the perpetrator is targeting humans…whose pregnancies are those…from Astartes?” His tone is clearly troubled. 

And Claude meanwhile is still boggled that such a thing is even possible. But putting that aside, it Is troubling. He may not be an apothecary but he knows Regular baselines can be fragile. Those that are pregnant or freshly born are even more so! 

Horlux nods. “Indeed, which is why we cannot wait any longer. The most recent victim was a few days ago. Our Hydra sector and Apothecary Sargent Medeathe here have been instrumental in gathering information and scoping out possible holding locations. But now it's time for your Night Lords to do what they do best.” Horlux says. “Get in under cover of darkness. Find the missing offspring. And drag the offender or offenders back here to face punishment.”

“Sir yes sir!” The Claw replies. 

Horlux turns to Xerxes. “You will be using your little friends to provide further reconnaissance.”

“With Pleasure.” Xerxes replies, bringing some of his little pets to play and walk over his hand. Medeathe can't seem to stop himself from physically recoiling at the sight, even if the movement is slight. 

Khopesh lets his teeth show. “Not a fan of bugs ey Sargent?”

Medeathe huffs. “Not a fan of…strange insects.”

Strange…aka Chaos. And again Khopesh narrows his eyes. He's worked with skittish Loyalists before, so he'll put up with this. The sooner this gets done, the sooner he returns to you. 

Claude speaks up. “I…can't say I disagree. They also ah…trouble me a bit.” 

The statement actually causes Medeathe to laugh a little. “Well, at least one of your lot has some Sense here.” 

As the squad turns to leave for their mission, Khopesh catches Xerxes's attention and pulls him to the side. 

“Forgive me for delaying our mission, but this is the first time I have been away from Lullaby for an extended period.” Khopesh says quickly and quietly. “Has there been any change in the…”

Xerxes smiles reassuringly…as reassuring as a half rotted face can be. “There has been…no movement…of my pets Nor the…Interloper. Be…at ease…” 

Khopesh feels that knot of tension in his gut unwind. He's grateful for that. “Thank you Cousin. I know you said the same when I'd first asked but I still find myself troubled by the vision.”

Xerxes nods in understanding. “It is…only natural…to be so concerned with one's…life mate.”

Khopesh nods. “Still Thank You.”

Xerxes waves his hand. “Let us save thanks…for later…for now…” His eyes and voice become deathly serious. “We have a mission to complete.”

…

Location: Warehouse 

Time: 11:47 pm

The group stays in the trees at the perimeter of the structure, from the outside it looks very innocuous, but Night Lords know that such places are Perfect for traps.

“Gather round,” Anrir pulls out the building plans for the warehouse, the Hydra Sector Horlux spoke of had clearly done some digging into mortal building records to find this. Rooms, doors, walls all labeled with letters so they could be identified. 

But they know that This is the building as it was during its first construction. There's no telling what could be swapped or changed on the inside. 

“Alright, Xerxes you're up.” Anrir prompts and the Death Guard does as he's instructed. 

“Go…lend me…your sight…” He breathes, and his wasps go on their way. The warehouse is surprisingly insulated against the weather, but Xerxes wasps are specialists in getting through small spaces. 

“Hrm…it is…very dark. But my pets…can see….ah…tricky tricky…” Xerxes breathes. “The inside layout…is mostly the same. Some new walls…have been erected…here…here…and here…” He marks them on his map, and Khopesh notes how the routes from the entrance split in two directions. 

“Looks like we'll need to split into groups of two to sweep the place.” Ghosk grunts. 

“Not yet, Xerxes,” Anrir prompts. “What do you see?”

Xerxes focuses again, and his expression morphs into slight frustration. “Hrm…it seems that…there are certain rooms…my pets cannot enter. There is…interference…”

“Interference how?” Karlsor asks. 

“Hrm…my pets…are sensitive to…vibrations. Differences in air pressure…and sound waves…can make their vision and flight…more difficult. Certain rooms…seem to have those frequencies…emanating from within…”

“So there's some kind of device or system we need to dismantle then?” Medeathe asks. 

Xerxes nods, and he seems troubled. “It would seem…so…”

Anrir speaks next. “Any life signs otherwise?”

Xerxes answers. “No. All the places…my pets can see…are uninhabited…and look as if they have been so…for a looong time…no traps that they can sense or see.”

“Very well.” Anrir nods. “We can assume that if the missing offspring And the perpetrators are anywhere, they are within one or more of those shielded rooms. They are our first priority, therefore, our breach Must allow us to sweep and secure those, as well as blocking off the exits for any potential hostiles.” He points to the map. 

“Xerxes will remain outside so he may focus on relaying what his sentries see to us over vox. Ghosk and Karlsor take the rear exit. Khopesh and Myself the route that goes right. Claude and Medeathe the route that goes left, any questions?” 

Khopesh almost protests, if anything Claude should be paired with one of them. 

“No fa- I mean…Anrir. We are ready when you are.” Claude nods, seemingly having no problem with the orders. So again, Khopesh holds his tongue. Anrir nods. “Very good. Everyone to your positions, and on my signal, we breach.”

…

Claude, Medeathe, Anrir and Khopesh creep up to the building's main entrance, while Karlsor and Ghosk make their way to the back.  

“Karlsor, Ghosk, are you ready?”

“Ready on your signal Anrir.”

“Good, on my ‘go’ 3…”

Claude readies himself, right behind Medeathe who will be leading. 

“2…” 

Khopesh flexes his claws, he'll be busting down the door and the others will follow after before the split. 

“1-GO!”

A flurry of movement breaks out and a CRASH is unleashed as Khopesh kicks the flimsy door open. Their thundering foot falls seem to make the walls shake as they flow into the building.

Claude and Medeathe as planned go left, down a hallway with their bolters drawn they come to another fork. Claude takes a half second to recall the map, and the direction to the shielded room on this side of the building. 

“It was a right turn. Keep up Scout!” Medeathe grunts, barely giving Claude a chance to cover the other side of the hallway as he moves. 

They come to the locked door of the shielded room and Claude prepares to set the charge to blow the lock off. Any Space Marine could kick the door down, but that would leave the breacher vulnerable to counterattack by those inside the room. A detonation will open the door and hopefully stun any hostiles inside so they can neutralize them. 

“Wait!” Medeathe hisses. “Let me,” He pushes past, and brings out his own detonation charge. “If the infants are inside, we can't risk using a full charge.”

Claude nods, of course of course. He takes position to the side of the door. 

BANG! 

The charge still blows the door back, but not off its hinges and Claude and Medeathe surge inside, bolters drawn. Claude looks left, then right, checking all corners and possible attack points before lowering his weapon with a “Clear.”

And now that his focus is off of checking every corner for hostiles, he truly takes in the room before him. It is Much more clean and inhabited than the rest of the warehouse. In fact it’s covered floor to ceiling in medical machinery. 

And filled with tiny fragile humans inside that machinery. Almost like…a nursery. 

He's…he's heard of these types of machines. They're called…Incubators. And though small…the little ones inside Seem to all be breathing. Some are completely baseline in appearance and others have horns or teeth, longer claws, pitch dark eyes. There are clearly a number of different hybrids here from all kinds of Astartes here. 

But…there's still something wrong with them. In spite of the loud entry they're…they're all so quiet and…Some of them have surgery marks others have… metal body parts.

“Augmentation…” Claude whispers with a strange horror in his voice. They've clearly been augmented. Claude isn't sure why he feels so upset, he was given his first augment as a young child. 

Yes, when he was around ten! These are neonates or barely any older!

“It's fascinating,” Medeathe breathes in awe. “To think someone could construct a facility of This level in an abandoned warehouse.”

Claude doesn't really like the…reverence in his tone, but he can't deny the statement rings true. He chocks it up to Medeathe's specialty being in neonatal care. “I suppose. Now we need to report the location.” Claude hurriedly types on his vox. 

“Anrir, come in Anrir, we have located the missing offspring. We're in sector X of the building…there appear to be about twenty incubators.”

-Bzzt "Message received, we will proceed to your location. Are any of the little ones injured?”

Claude swallows the lump in his throat and answers. “All have life signs, but they're all…all of them have evidence of augmentation…and they are all currently inside incubators with locks and hooked up to various tubes…I'm not sure how to remove them.”

“Medeathe should know how to remove them while keeping them stable. Follow his orders until we can reach you.”

“Wilco.”

Medeathe looks over the room. “Seems almost a shame to dismantle this…” He sighs. 

Claude pushes the same discomfort as before aside and shrugs. “Well, the medical equipment can be salvaged…and it'll do more good in a hospital than here.” He peaks into the incubator he's standing in front of as Medeathe busies himself with the mechanics of how to transport the infants. 

The little one inside is soooo small, pudgy and soft looking, and an odd part of Claude's heart wants to hold them. He thinks this little one is female but he's not one hundred percent sure. But he cannot remove them yet, so he moves to place his hand to the glass where hers is. 

“Ah Ah Ah! Don't…do that.” Medeathe grunts. “This little Night Lord has a touch of psychery. You might startle her.”

Claude pulls back. “Oh right…I wouldn't want to-”

Time stops, just for a moment. 

“Sargent Medeathe…” Claude's tone is a question, but it is laced with…fear. The Sargent's hands stop moving. “How did you know this little one is a Night Lord spawn?”

“I ah…I saw her eyes. She opened them when you weren't looking.” He replies. 

Claude feels heat pool under his skin, rage…and disbelief. “You could've said she was a Raven Guard or even a Carcharodon, but…you also said she has psyker capabilities.” He mumbles. “But you're Not a psyker, there's no way you could know that unless…”

Suddenly his mind goes back to the breach…how Medeathe seemed to know the Exact way to go. How He was the one to set the charge before Claude breached this room. 

Even his odd stare when Xerxes had shown his newborn. Claude felt his skin crawl. 

“Oh Little Primaris…” Medeathe soft voice speaks, almost like that calm disappointment parents would show children when they've seen something they shouldn't. 

Claude whips his bolter out and trains it on the Ultramarine. But rather than jumping to attack him, the Ultramarine regards him with a calm…almost Fond look. It makes Claude want to vomit. 

“Halt!” Claude snarls, training his bolter. “You are under arrest.”

The Ultramarine tilts his head. “Under whose jurisdiction?”

“The Alliance.” Claude states. “You will be taken to stand trial for your crimes-”

“Ah yes!” Medeathe nods astutely. “The Alliance, full of Traitors…and Heretics…and Deserters-Tell Me, why does a Loyalist son of Corax himself, take orders from a Chaos inclined Night Lord?”

Claude hesitates. “Anrir is Not Chaos.”

“But your other Brother is…the one with a set of throne damned Bat Wings who made a mess of my front door.” He replies. “The other one with the foul mouth may not look it, but I can sense the Stink of that rotten warp corruption upon him…” He steps carefully around Claude who still has his bolter trained on him. 

For a moment Claude thinks to shoot the bastard dead, until he sees something move on the ceiling behind Medeathe. Instinctively, he knows who the dark shape is, and what it's signing. 

Can't shoot in here. Risk to babies. Keep him talking. 

So he allows Medeathe to keep talking. 

“And as for your…Anrir, he's a Traitor to the Imperium. All of his wretched ilk are.” Medeathe swears. “Even back in their ‘loyal’ times; nothing but a bunch of savage skin peelers looking to sow fear and get their fill of torture.”

The hypocrisy sets Claude off. “And what does that make you then!?” Claude snarls. “Look where you're standing, look at what you've done to these little ones and their families!” Claude gestures to the room of infants too young to be parted from their parents. “DON'T moralize to Me about torture, the torture you've put those human baselines and their mate's through by Stealing their children from their wombs is worse than anything the Nightlord's could do!”

The dark shape is almost in position now, but Claude is truly having to hold himself back from killing Medeathe outright. 

The Apothecary’s response is chilling, Claude can Feel the smile behind the helmet. “I am only continuing the good work I did before. The Imperium will need more Neophytes, more serfs, and of course…more servitors. It is only natural to pick from hybrids as they have an even better chance of surviving the process.” He gently places his hand on Claude's bolter. Claude allows him to move the gun down. 

He gestures to the cradle in front of Claude. The tiny female baseline with brown skin and fully pitch black eyes stares back. “And as for the spawns of Traitors like This little Night Lord, they will Finally have a chance at redemption.” Medeathe turns to the Raven Guard. “That's what you want too, isn't it?” 

Claude forces himself to not recoil as Medeathe reaches a hand out to gently touch his face. “Don't you want what you were promised…to serve the Imperium and Atone for the sins of your blood?” Medeathe breathes, thinking he's got the Primaris right where he wants him. 

That does catch Claude off guard. “How d-did you?”

“How did I know you have Traitor's blood?” Medeathe coos. “Oh dear child, it's written all over your face. And come now…why else would those wretched traitors tolerate an abomination like you?”

And all at once, the spell passes. Claude nods jerkily and almost…laughs. “Of course…”

“See, I told you you'd see sense.”

“No I mean of course you'd say something that's absolutely fucking HORSESHIT!” The laugh turns into a snarl as he slams his fist straight into Medeathe's helmeted face. The Ultramarine reels and falls back a few steps. 

“You wretched little Traitor bastard!” He curses and reaches for his own bolter. 

“Ah Ah AH!” Khopesh chimes gleefully, dropping from the ceiling and literally swiping the side arm away with a slash of his Lighting Claws. Before delivering a sharp kick to Medeathe's gut, sending him back to Claude. 

“You don't know ANYTHING!” Claude snarls, landing another devastating punch. “You don't Know ANYTHING! ABOUT! MY! FAMILY!” Claude locks in, just as he had the Last time he faced a bully, and starts beating the blue off Medeathe.  

“Not so much fun to be the one caught between, Is it Ultramarine!?” Khopesh snarls as he and Claude literally volly the apothecary back and forth as he fruitlessly tries to escape. 

“N-no!” The Ultramarine is beaten to the ground and tries to drag himself to his sidearm. 

CRUNCH! “ARGHGAAAAH!” 

“Ooops~” Khopesh chimes with sadistic glee as his armored boot Crushes the Ultramarine's wandering hand. 

Claude drags Medeathe back and locks his arms around the apothecary's neck. He tightens down and the Apothecary begins to lose consciousness. 

“You,” Claude huffs, his breathing is labored. “Are Under Arrest! You will be Tried! And you will ANSWER! FOR YOUR CRIMES!” The Apothecary struggles in his grasp before he goes limp, but Claude waits a few agonizing extra moments to make sure he is well and Truly out. 

Then he slaps on the Astarte grade restraints but as he does Claude is breathing hard, almost hyperventilating. He can barely hear Khopesh as he talks until…

“Claude…CLAUDE?!” Khopesh gently takes Claude by the shoulder. “You alright Claude?”

Claude feels his veins ice over. “They're all so small…” The little ones, taken from their mother's too soon. All in the hopes of What!? Making more neophytes!? Kidnapping and traumatizing and butchering mothers and children with metal and organ augments!? Even if it were possible to make Space Marines on Terra as the Imperium had, the children hybrid or not deserved a Choice on what they'd become. 

“Hey Hey! Look at me!” Khopesh snarls. “We Saved these little ones, and who knows how many more pregnant baselines?”

Claude nods, shakily, but he does. 

“Without you, they'd still be in Danger and that!” He points to Medeathe's unconscious body. “Fucking bastard, might be free to try again!”

“That's true.”

Khopesh smiles. “Of course I'm right. And now we need to focus on moving these little mites and getting them back to their families.”

“Well said Khopesh.” 

Claude and Khopesh turn and see Anrir and the other Night Lords filing in. 

“Father!” Claude, much like a child himself, feels so relieved to see his family. 

“Good to see you Anrir.” Khopesh greets. “We'll certainly need your expertise since the other apothecary is…” He glances to the unconscious Ultramarine, still held in restraints. “Out of commission.”

Anrir nods. “I assume there is a good reason for this.” 

Khopesh smiles wide. “You might need a Special Cell for this one.” Khopesh pulls out the recording he'd taken while Medeathe was rambling. 

Anrir's expression morphs subtly, and Khopesh gets Excited. Anrir is disgusted. Karlsor picks that up as well. 

“Ho ho ho, looks like we'll get to have a fuckin Party once we get this fucker back to base.” 

Anrir nods. “Yes…I think we shall.” He then sends a copy of the log to Horlux and Xerxes. With the additional message for Xerxes to receive Medeathe into custody. By which he means Ghosk and Karlsor haul (drag) the bastard outside so Xerxes can keep his and his pets eyes on him till he awakens. 

The elder Night Lord moves along the incubators, examining them and the infants inside. “The air inside these is laced with a sleeping agent. Not enough to be deadly, but enough to keep the little ones drowsy and quiet though I wouldn't be surprised if this room was also sound proofed…” Anrir grimaces, and he recognizes the IVs. “And they're hooked up to nutrient drips, and waste disposal tubes. The fool couldn't even be bothered to feed or change them by hand. Idiot.” Anrir growls. 

Khopesh feels his excitement Skyrocket. Not about the infants’ situation, fuck no this room makes him so angry it hurts. But Anrir being this angry means the retribution will be Slow and Aaaagonizing. 

Exactly! The kind he relishes, and the kind this misbegotten bastard deserves. 

“Our play time will have to wait, Khopesh, there is still much to do here.” Anrir points out. “Not only securing safe transport for these little ones, but turning this building upside down to ensure all relevant evidence is collected and no…unwanted surprises assail us. Oh come now…”

Anrir coos as one of the little ones begins to cry in their pod. Perhaps the gaseous agent that kept them calm is running out. He reaches one ancient hand to the little one and lays it against the glass. 

The little Night Lord gurgles, and puts her hand up against his, babbling with interest at this new face that she may or may not be able to see. “There now, isn't that better. Shhh…”

“Brrr-agalb-lphht.” The baby says in response, but she is calm now and Claude feels a more proper relief flow over him. 

Khopesh puts his hand on his younger brother's shoulder. “Well done Claudy, well done.”

Claude nods, and even blinks a bit. He Actually feels a bit of wetness coming to his eyes. They're happy tears, but still he wipes them away quickly. 

“Thanks…but we've got more work to do.” 

…

1 Day Post Mission

The Claw walks throughout the rest of the compound, their sweep after showing that the other shielded rooms held medical supplies, and documentation of the…experiments Medeathe was conducting. 

“I suppose he's lucky none of the little ones passed from this.” Ghosk sighs, thinking about the cluster fuck the Apothecaries had experienced moving all the offspring from their ‘nursery’ to the neonatal care unit at the nearby Steelix Base. 

Khopesh's grin splits open. “Not like it matters, he's a dead man regardless.”

Anrir nods as he gathers the documentation. “Too true. At the very least he was smart enough to not sign his name on these pages.” 

“But Not fuckin smart enough to realize that stealing offspring would land him where he is now.” Karlsor remarks. 

“To think a Son of Gulliman would fall so far.” Claude ponders. 

“Evil doesn't have a legion color, Claude.” Anrir hums, taking a moment to read over the medical study's findings. 

“And neither does Crazy.” Khopesh adds. 

2 Days Post Mission 

“We've cleared the entire structure Anrir.” Claude reports proudly, he's also holding a number of different documents. 

“Claudy found the last of the papers. Sniffed em out, through a wall.” Khopesh announces, also with pride. “Yeeesh, these are more…personal.”

Anrir cocks an eyebrow, somewhat unimpressed. Not by the find but what he imagines the pages entail. “Let me guess. ‘No one understands what I'm doing.’ ‘I am the only one who can lead us into the future.’ ‘Everyone else are Fools and will quake when I am finally allowed to put the brilliance of my research into the sunlight?’”

“Yep, pretty much.” Khopesh shrugs. 

“Eh seen one evil scientist motherfucker seen em all.” Karlsor huffs, and casts a pointed look at Anrir. 

Anrir is not amused. “Get back to work.”

…

3 Days Post Mission at the Steelix Base Neonatal Care Facility.

The Claw waits with varying levels of boredom or anxiety. Things have been wrapped up, the Warehouse is fully cleared, Medeathe is set for transport, everything is Done.

So whyyyyy are they stuck here!? Khopesh groans, mentally of course. Most of his energy comes from Desperately wanting to see you again. Oh he's missed your sweet voice and your warmth and your nest…

Karlsor is like Khopesh but not Quite as intense. Really his annoyance is being amplified by Khopesh's fidgeting, and that base annoyance comes from wanting to go home to his Sunshine. He can't act out directly so he settles for directing a Very low frequency growl at Khopesh to tell him to Stop Moving Dammit!

Ghosk is old and tired and annoyed and wants to pull his Rabbit into bed the Second he sees her. And he's mutually being annoyed by Khopesh fidgeting And Karlsor's noises. But he's better at tuning them out…

“Mother fucker I SWEAR if you don't hold fucking STILL!” Karlsor hisses, as Khopesh's leg keeps twitching. 

For the most part…

“Hush.” 

And immediately the line of Night Lords fall into order at the sound of their apothecary's voice. He'd been pulled into some kind of meeting, why they decided to have it here they have no clue. 

Luckily, Anrir explains. “It seems we are finally set to be dismissed from further duties related to this case.”

““Thank Fuck.”” Ghosk and Karlsor sigh in unison. ““Oh fuck. Fucking stop it motherfucker!” Claude and Khopesh can't help but snicker. “”The fuck are you fucking laughing at!?”

“Language!” Anrir chastises. Ghosk rolls his eyes, while Karlsor bites his tongue. “There is one last matter to handle.” Before the Claw can complain, Anrir continues. “One of our Legion Brothers wanted to thank us personally for our aid.”

A Legion brother? 

And indeed, through the same door as Anrir came an Astarte and a Baseline. The Night Lord has a dark Mohawk that sweeps down his neck and short buzzed sides. The human baseline has dark skin with a warm undertone, and her hair is done up with an elegant headscarf.

In her arms she holds a tiny bundle, with a face. 

“Is that…?” Claude asks as the woman and her mate approach. The Night Lord is on guard, even anxious with what has happened, but he knows this place is safe. 

And that he has these Battle Brothers to thank for the return of his little one. 

“I am Siros,” The Nightlord greets, “Nightlord Chaplain and this, is my bonded.” He has his arm wrapped sweetly around his mate. 

“My name is Folake, and before we…we leave to take her home I just…” Folake begins to tear up, but she forces herself to finish. “I just wanted…wanted to say Thank You.” 

She gently rocks the child in her arms. The little Night Lord with brown skin and her father's dark eyes. Claude smiles as he remembers her past form, and how much more peaceful she looks, free of that awful machinery. 

“Have you chosen a name yet?” Khopesh asks, also looking at the little one. He agrees, she looks much healthier. 

“Not yet…” Folake admits. “After everything that has happened…my Husband and I have been so caught up in just having her back, we haven't had time to think about it.”

The little one's eyes suddenly open, and she sees Claude. He's not sure if she recognizes him but she giggles and makes those silly noises again. 

“Abbabbab-plllthth-brrr..” Then she breaks into another giggling fit. Her mother actually cries on the spot and Siros can't seem to help but pull his family close and purr. 

“Your father has told me…that it was You that stopped him. The man who…who stole my daughter.” Folake says, once she's wiped the tears away. “So he couldn't hurt anyone else. Could you please, tell me your name?”

Claude blushes. “Ah well…It wasn't just me. My older brother Khopesh is the one who helped me take him into custody. And All of my brothers made the mission possible.” He explains, nervously. “My name is Claude.”

Folake seems to think for a moment. “Claude…Claude…Claudette!” 

“Brabblpthft!” The baby babbles happily  in response and her mother beams. 

“Do you like that? Do you like that name, my sweet child?” She nuzzles her baby, then turns to her mate. “What do you think, Siros?”

Siros reaches down a huge pale hand and tickles his little one, causing her to try and nibble his hand. He smiles a wonderfully soft smile. “I think it is a fitting name.”

Claude feels a variety of emotions but mostly overwhelmed, happy and a tad embarrassed. “Ah…thank you! Truly! It's an honor.”

Siros nods, then turns to Anrir and says something in Nostraman. “I appreciate your invitation, but I will need some time to spend with my family.”

Anrir smiles and responds in the same language. “He's not going anywhere, I'm happy to hold him until you have a chance to…visit.”

Siros smiles, and it is indeed a proper Nightlord smile. But then he turns back to his love. “Come my darling. Let us take our little Night Lord home.”

With that the family departs. 

Claude stands there for a moment slightly stunned. Well…it's not everyday you get a child named after you. But at the same time there's a…warmth he feels. 

Anrir takes notice and gently places a hand on his shoulder. “You have done well, my son.” Anrir's expression falls to become more somber. “But you must understand, not all of our missions will end so happily. This is the risk we undertake, even here where there is so much less conflict. It is not just a risk to our bodies, but to our hearts and minds as well. Do you understand?”

Claude nods. “I do father.”

Anrir nods in approval. “Good, now…let us go Home.”

“Fucking FINALLY!”

“Language Karlsor!”

…

Last stop before he's finally, FINALLY clear to call you, is a final debriefing at the Rot Bone Base. 

Captain Horlux addresses all of them. “Well done. Your performance on this recent mission was exemplary. Not only were all the pilfered offspring returned, but the perpetrator was brought to face justice.” A troubled look passes across the Black Legionnaire's face. “Medeathe was one of the Alliance's most expert apothecaries, especially in the area of hybrid deliveries. To lose that is a blow, but we will recover.”

“Hopefully his research notes can provide us some aid in training other apothecaries.” Anrir hums. “However mad he may be, the fact he was able to set up an entire nursery and keep all the infants from dying is testament to his skills.”

Claude doesn't like the comments about Medeathe, but again, they are technically correct. 

Horlux grunts, before picking up another sheaf of papers. “The only question that remains is How the bastard managed to abscond with all that medical equipment and supplies.”

Anrir agrees. “True, we'll have to keep him alive until we can ascertain if he was operating alone. It is not infeasible that Medeathe could have falsified the supply documents and removed or collected items over a longer period of time to build his lab. But it's just as plausible that he could have done so with outside help.”

Horlux nods. “He'll be turned into your custody for interrogation. I'll send the order now, and it should be processed in about a day.” The old marine huffs as he goes over the mountain of paperwork in front of him. 

“My condolences.” Anrir jokes, but the sentiment is genuine. 

“Yeah yeah, go on. You and your Claw are dismissed for now.” Horlux waves his hand. “But remember! Keep the bastard Alive until we can get that information out of him.”

Anrir salutes, and he and the Claw turn to leave. Claude notices Khopesh typing a message on his vox. 

“Trying to contact Lullaby?” He asks with a smile. 

Khopesh nods quickly. “Yep yes yes Yep, that last meeting was driving me Insane, but now we're dismissed and I can Finally contact them.”

Khopesh 🦇💙: Lullaby! I cannot wait to see you and hold you and LOVE you! When I see you I will pull you into my arms and not let go until the Sun Rises! 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Awe Babe!❤❤ That's so sweet! 

But you know I'm just in the bathroom. You don't need to text me from the living room. 

Khopesh 🦇💙 :Lullaby…what are you talking about? I am not in the living room, I am at the Rot Bone Base. I've only just been debriefed and released from my mission. 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Wait, then…who's here with me right now?

Khopesh's blood runs cold. His pace had turned from a swift walk to a run to full on sprint. Claude had kept pace as he noticed Khopesh's mood change from excited to fearful. 

“What's going on?” Claude asks as the two run through the base and outside. 

Khopesh 🦇💙: Do not panic. Stay in the bathroom and make an excuse like you're having stomach issues. Try to sneak out the window. 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Okay. I love you. Please hurry!

Khopesh🦇💙: ❤

“There's a fucking Hydra in my Nest!” Khopesh snarls with Claude close behind. 

A soon to be very Dead, very Flayed Hydra. And if Anything happens to his Lullaby there won't be a single power on this world or any other that will be able to stop his wrath!

[egrets-not-regrets]

Good job, Claude! I’m glad that the little babies are safe and sound and not servitorized. Medeathe is a brilliant villain but it really brinfs in question who else is helping him. And if the have the same intentions or just out of ignorance.

And the sneaky Alpha Legionary, he better hope he’s not skewered like rotisserie chicken when Khopesh catches him.

And love the shoutout to Steelix Base!

Do I Know You? - Part 2

Summary: While Lullaby spends their first days alone in a long while, Khopesh and the rest of his claw are busy on their mission. It's a matter of extreme delicacy, and importance as it involves the disappearance of hybrid children. 

Previous Chapter: HERE

Next Chapter: Not Here Yet

First Ever in the Series: HERE

Tag List: @kit-williams @gallifreyianrosearkytiorsusan (all of whom have amazing characters that make cameos here!) @sleepyfan-blog @egrets-not-regrets @legionsofthehungry

@passionofthesith @bispecsual @bleedingichorhearts

Location: Redacted 

Time: 11:00 PM

Current Objective: Pre-mission Briefing 

As Khopesh enters the briefing room alongside his Claw and behind his ‘father’ Anrir, he realizes there is a familiar face here. 

A portly Death Guard with a mouth of sharpened teeth on his gut, probably to replace the jaw decaying off his face. 

“Xerxes,” Khopesh greets the marine who smells of death with a sharp but genuine smile. 

“Ah…Khopesh….good to seeee…you once…Again.” He breathes, both mouths speaking in sync. 

The other in the room, an Ultramarine Apothecary, glances between the two. “You know each other?”

Xerxes smiles. “Indeed…Medeathe…we share some…common interests…” 

Khopesh grins. The absolute Cheek of older cousin Xerxes, implying their alliance right in front of a stranger. Well the Ultramarine is a stranger to Khopesh, he's not sure if Xerxes knows him better. They'd make an odd combo regardless, with Xerxes as a walking nurgle corpse and Medeathe practically the poster child for an Ultramarine, with his bright blond hair and deep blue eyes. 

As for the reason Khopesh and Xerxes interact…not like he can complain, he'd probably do the same. 

Xerxes continues his explanation, “And I often traverse ... .his neighborhood.”

“Haven't seen you as often though. Have you found a place with better leftovers to pilfer?” Khopesh chuckles. 

Xerxes takes the comment in good humor and lets out his odd lilting and slow laugh. “HaHaHa, Perish…the Thought…I have been…occupied with matters…of the home…”

Anrir perks up a bit at that. “So it's finally happened then?”

The others in the room perk up a bit at Anrir's apparent interest. 

“What's fucking happened?” Karlsor asks. 

Xerxes lopsided grin grows wider. “Ah…sharp as…ever…Nightlord…and Yessss.” Xerxes pulls out his vox and begins swiping through it. 

The Night Lords, save Ghosk, immediately crowd around the image being shown. Khopesh, Claude and Karlsor are curious as to what the older Marines are talking about, and Anrir does so for scientific curiosity…mostly. Ghosk doesn't want to bother leaning pushing his way into the crowd, but he does glance at the images being shown. 

On the screen is a baseline human and a tiny bundle with a face in her arms. Ghosk seems to realize something Khopesh doesn't and chuckles with a “Well I'll be…”

Khopesh and Claude don't really get it. “A baby?” Like sure babies are cute but plenty of bonded humans have them from previous pregnancies or adoptions. 

“Your baby?!” Anrir asks with an uncharacteristic, almost reverent tone.

“Holy Fucking Shit.” Karlsor mumbles. 

Xerxes beams with pride. “They're name is Vespa… my little Larva.” He says, cooing over the photos. And indeed in other pictures where the child is a bit older it's far more obvious the little one has mostly their mother's looks, but their bright green eyes and their mossy hair hint at their father's identity. 

Medeathe just stares wordlessly, perhaps he feels uncomfortable with the thought of hybrid children. 

Claude blinks. “Wait! That's actually possible?? For a human and an Astarte to…To-”

“Yes!” The Ultramarine breaks in on the awkward statement with a terse tone. “It is Possible, Scout. Do not make a scene.”

Khopesh narrows his eyes at the rebuke. Mild or not, he doesn't take kindly to people chastising Claude for no reason. 

Medeathe takes a steadying breath, and his next words are much kinder. “I apologize for my tone, Scout. But I've had that conversation so many times at this point it's driven me damn near the edge of my sanity.” 

Xerxes laughs again. “Indeed…there is a reason…at the clinic…they call you…the Midwife…” Medeathe rolls his eyes but Xerxes continues. “He is…the foremost…when it comes…to labor and delivery of…hybrid children. He was even consulted…during my mate's…premature delivery.”

Claude speaks up. “It is alright older cousin, I understand the headache of having to explain things more than once.”

Khopesh pulls back on his snark. Medeathe is right, baselines can also treat the subject of hybrids…poorly, and perhaps the Ultramarine didn't want Claude to pester Xerxes. He'll hold his tongue for now.

No someone Else was doing that already. “I knew when I smelt the pregnancy hormones from your mate on you. When was the due date! And how long was the gestation!? Were there any complications pre or post delivery? You must tell me!” Anrir asks with urgency. 

Xerxes chuckles and is about to reply when-

“Save the baby pictures for Afterward gentlemen. We have a matter of great importance to attend to.” A dark and gruff yet refined voice speaks from the doorway. 

The others turn to see a Black Legionnaire with a face of criss-crossed scars and a cybernetic implant that goes from his chin to his forehead. In fact it seems to go further, actually trailing along the marine's bald head and down to the back of his neck. 

“Captain Horlux.” Anrir greets, making a quick battle sign to which all the Claw members stand at attention and make way for the other marine. 

Horlux walks past, seemingly reading each of the Claw up and down. Claude feels himself sweat a bit, the Captain's gaze is intense, and his presence feels as if it has a pressure all its own. He briefly remembers how it felt being examined by his previous Raven Guard commanders. 

Just as Claude is feeling his stress rise. Horlux nods, seemingly satisfied with what he's observed and turns to walk to the front of the room with a quickly grunted. “At Ease.”

The Claw relaxes where they stand and move to gather where Horlux and the Ultramarine Apothecary are setting up the presentation. 

“I have Gathered you here to undertake a very important and delicate mission.” Horlux explains, and some images flash on the projector screen.”

Images of a warehouse appear, along with several images of different baselines and Astartes. They seem to be bonded pairs.

Khopesh smiles while a growl bubbles up in his throat. He remembers the rage he felt when he learned of the Chaos Blood Angels who would kidnap bonded humans to kill them so they could feel the warp backlash of the bond breaking. Then kill the Astarte if they'd captured them. 

“Easy Curzling,” Horlux hushes. “So far we know for a fact these baselines aren't dead. However, they have all been through a truly horrific experience.”

The next slides show the baselines; mostly social media or medical photos. Every single baseline shares one thing in common; they are all heavily pregnant, clearly near the end of their terms. The after was far more clinical, and each stomach that was once round with child now laid flat and empty. The only evidence on the outside of the previous state was a perfectly stitched scar. “We have reason to believe there are illegal experiments regarding Pregnant Baselines taking place at this location.” The coordinates flash up on screen.

“Your first priority; determine the fate of the missing offspring, extract any that remain alive. Second; capture the perpetrators alive so they may face judgement. Third; secure the scene and retrieve any and all documentation of their doings for evidence.” Horlux turns to the room. “Any questions?”

Claude hesitantly raises his hand. “I must ask, what Kind of experiments do we believe are being committed?”

Horlux seems to take a moment, seemingly debating what or how to explain. “All we know for certain is that our most recent victim was somehow taken and returned to her domicile without her nor her Astarte mate noticing. We have reason to believe some kind of sleeping or amnestic agent was used on both of them. When the baseline awoke she had no memory of the trip, and her child had been removed from her womb. Her mate rushed her to the hospital as soon as they awoke and discovered her state.”

Xerxes speaks next. “Do you think…the perpetrator is targeting humans…whose pregnancies are those…from Astartes?” His tone is clearly troubled. 

And Claude meanwhile is still boggled that such a thing is even possible. But putting that aside, it Is troubling. He may not be an apothecary but he knows Regular baselines can be fragile. Those that are pregnant or freshly born are even more so! 

Horlux nods. “Indeed, which is why we cannot wait any longer. The most recent victim was a few days ago. Our Hydra sector and Apothecary Sargent Medeathe here have been instrumental in gathering information and scoping out possible holding locations. But now it's time for your Night Lords to do what they do best.” Horlux says. “Get in under cover of darkness. Find the missing offspring. And drag the offender or offenders back here to face punishment.”

“Sir yes sir!” The Claw replies. 

Horlux turns to Xerxes. “You will be using your little friends to provide further reconnaissance.”

“With Pleasure.” Xerxes replies, bringing some of his little pets to play and walk over his hand. Medeathe can't seem to stop himself from physically recoiling at the sight, even if the movement is slight. 

Khopesh lets his teeth show. “Not a fan of bugs ey Sargent?”

Medeathe huffs. “Not a fan of…strange insects.”

Strange…aka Chaos. And again Khopesh narrows his eyes. He's worked with skittish Loyalists before, so he'll put up with this. The sooner this gets done, the sooner he returns to you. 

Claude speaks up. “I…can't say I disagree. They also ah…trouble me a bit.” 

The statement actually causes Medeathe to laugh a little. “Well, at least one of your lot has some Sense here.” 

As the squad turns to leave for their mission, Khopesh catches Xerxes's attention and pulls him to the side. 

“Forgive me for delaying our mission, but this is the first time I have been away from Lullaby for an extended period.” Khopesh says quickly and quietly. “Has there been any change in the…”

Xerxes smiles reassuringly…as reassuring as a half rotted face can be. “There has been…no movement…of my pets Nor the…Interloper. Be…at ease…” 

Khopesh feels that knot of tension in his gut unwind. He's grateful for that. “Thank you Cousin. I know you said the same when I'd first asked but I still find myself troubled by the vision.”

Xerxes nods in understanding. “It is…only natural…to be so concerned with one's…life mate.”

Khopesh nods. “Still Thank You.”

Xerxes waves his hand. “Let us save thanks…for later…for now…” His eyes and voice become deathly serious. “We have a mission to complete.”

…

Location: Warehouse 

Time: 11:47 pm

The group stays in the trees at the perimeter of the structure, from the outside it looks very innocuous, but Night Lords know that such places are Perfect for traps.

“Gather round,” Anrir pulls out the building plans for the warehouse, the Hydra Sector Horlux spoke of had clearly done some digging into mortal building records to find this. Rooms, doors, walls all labeled with letters so they could be identified. 

But they know that This is the building as it was during its first construction. There's no telling what could be swapped or changed on the inside. 

“Alright, Xerxes you're up.” Anrir prompts and the Death Guard does as he's instructed. 

“Go…lend me…your sight…” He breathes, and his wasps go on their way. The warehouse is surprisingly insulated against the weather, but Xerxes wasps are specialists in getting through small spaces. 

“Hrm…it is…very dark. But my pets…can see….ah…tricky tricky…” Xerxes breathes. “The inside layout…is mostly the same. Some new walls…have been erected…here…here…and here…” He marks them on his map, and Khopesh notes how the routes from the entrance split in two directions. 

“Looks like we'll need to split into groups of two to sweep the place.” Ghosk grunts. 

“Not yet, Xerxes,” Anrir prompts. “What do you see?”

Xerxes focuses again, and his expression morphs into slight frustration. “Hrm…it seems that…there are certain rooms…my pets cannot enter. There is…interference…”

“Interference how?” Karlsor asks. 

“Hrm…my pets…are sensitive to…vibrations. Differences in air pressure…and sound waves…can make their vision and flight…more difficult. Certain rooms…seem to have those frequencies…emanating from within…”

“So there's some kind of device or system we need to dismantle then?” Medeathe asks. 

Xerxes nods, and he seems troubled. “It would seem…so…”

Anrir speaks next. “Any life signs otherwise?”

Xerxes answers. “No. All the places…my pets can see…are uninhabited…and look as if they have been so…for a looong time…no traps that they can sense or see.”

“Very well.” Anrir nods. “We can assume that if the missing offspring And the perpetrators are anywhere, they are within one or more of those shielded rooms. They are our first priority, therefore, our breach Must allow us to sweep and secure those, as well as blocking off the exits for any potential hostiles.” He points to the map. 

“Xerxes will remain outside so he may focus on relaying what his sentries see to us over vox. Ghosk and Karlsor take the rear exit. Khopesh and Myself the route that goes right. Claude and Medeathe the route that goes left, any questions?” 

Khopesh almost protests, if anything Claude should be paired with one of them. 

“No fa- I mean…Anrir. We are ready when you are.” Claude nods, seemingly having no problem with the orders. So again, Khopesh holds his tongue. Anrir nods. “Very good. Everyone to your positions, and on my signal, we breach.”

…

Claude, Medeathe, Anrir and Khopesh creep up to the building's main entrance, while Karlsor and Ghosk make their way to the back.  

“Karlsor, Ghosk, are you ready?”

“Ready on your signal Anrir.”

“Good, on my ‘go’ 3…”

Claude readies himself, right behind Medeathe who will be leading. 

“2…” 

Khopesh flexes his claws, he'll be busting down the door and the others will follow after before the split. 

“1-GO!”

A flurry of movement breaks out and a CRASH is unleashed as Khopesh kicks the flimsy door open. Their thundering foot falls seem to make the walls shake as they flow into the building.

Claude and Medeathe as planned go left, down a hallway with their bolters drawn they come to another fork. Claude takes a half second to recall the map, and the direction to the shielded room on this side of the building. 

“It was a right turn. Keep up Scout!” Medeathe grunts, barely giving Claude a chance to cover the other side of the hallway as he moves. 

They come to the locked door of the shielded room and Claude prepares to set the charge to blow the lock off. Any Space Marine could kick the door down, but that would leave the breacher vulnerable to counterattack by those inside the room. A detonation will open the door and hopefully stun any hostiles inside so they can neutralize them. 

“Wait!” Medeathe hisses. “Let me,” He pushes past, and brings out his own detonation charge. “If the infants are inside, we can't risk using a full charge.”

Claude nods, of course of course. He takes position to the side of the door. 

BANG! 

The charge still blows the door back, but not off its hinges and Claude and Medeathe surge inside, bolters drawn. Claude looks left, then right, checking all corners and possible attack points before lowering his weapon with a “Clear.”

And now that his focus is off of checking every corner for hostiles, he truly takes in the room before him. It is Much more clean and inhabited than the rest of the warehouse. In fact it’s covered floor to ceiling in medical machinery. 

And filled with tiny fragile humans inside that machinery. Almost like…a nursery. 

He's…he's heard of these types of machines. They're called…Incubators. And though small…the little ones inside Seem to all be breathing. Some are completely baseline in appearance and others have horns or teeth, longer claws, pitch dark eyes. There are clearly a number of different hybrids here from all kinds of Astartes here. 

But…there's still something wrong with them. In spite of the loud entry they're…they're all so quiet and…Some of them have surgery marks others have… metal body parts.

“Augmentation…” Claude whispers with a strange horror in his voice. They've clearly been augmented. Claude isn't sure why he feels so upset, he was given his first augment as a young child. 

Yes, when he was around ten! These are neonates or barely any older!

“It's fascinating,” Medeathe breathes in awe. “To think someone could construct a facility of This level in an abandoned warehouse.”

Claude doesn't really like the…reverence in his tone, but he can't deny the statement rings true. He chocks it up to Medeathe's specialty being in neonatal care. “I suppose. Now we need to report the location.” Claude hurriedly types on his vox. 

“Anrir, come in Anrir, we have located the missing offspring. We're in sector X of the building…there appear to be about twenty incubators.”

-Bzzt "Message received, we will proceed to your location. Are any of the little ones injured?”

Claude swallows the lump in his throat and answers. “All have life signs, but they're all…all of them have evidence of augmentation…and they are all currently inside incubators with locks and hooked up to various tubes…I'm not sure how to remove them.”

“Medeathe should know how to remove them while keeping them stable. Follow his orders until we can reach you.”

“Wilco.”

Medeathe looks over the room. “Seems almost a shame to dismantle this…” He sighs. 

Claude pushes the same discomfort as before aside and shrugs. “Well, the medical equipment can be salvaged…and it'll do more good in a hospital than here.” He peaks into the incubator he's standing in front of as Medeathe busies himself with the mechanics of how to transport the infants. 

The little one inside is soooo small, pudgy and soft looking, and an odd part of Claude's heart wants to hold them. He thinks this little one is female but he's not one hundred percent sure. But he cannot remove them yet, so he moves to place his hand to the glass where hers is. 

“Ah Ah Ah! Don't…do that.��� Medeathe grunts. “This little Night Lord has a touch of psychery. You might startle her.”

Claude pulls back. “Oh right…I wouldn't want to-”

Time stops, just for a moment. 

“Sargent Medeathe…” Claude's tone is a question, but it is laced with…fear. The Sargent's hands stop moving. “How did you know this little one is a Night Lord spawn?”

“I ah…I saw her eyes. She opened them when you weren't looking.” He replies. 

Claude feels heat pool under his skin, rage…and disbelief. “You could've said she was a Raven Guard or even a Carcharodon, but…you also said she has psyker capabilities.” He mumbles. “But you're Not a psyker, there's no way you could know that unless…”

Suddenly his mind goes back to the breach…how Medeathe seemed to know the Exact way to go. How He was the one to set the charge before Claude breached this room. 

Even his odd stare when Xerxes had shown his newborn. Claude felt his skin crawl. 

“Oh Little Primaris…” Medeathe soft voice speaks, almost like that calm disappointment parents would show children when they've seen something they shouldn't. 

Claude whips his bolter out and trains it on the Ultramarine. But rather than jumping to attack him, the Ultramarine regards him with a calm…almost Fond look. It makes Claude want to vomit. 

“Halt!” Claude snarls, training his bolter. “You are under arrest.”

The Ultramarine tilts his head. “Under whose jurisdiction?”

“The Alliance.” Claude states. “You will be taken to stand trial for your crimes-”

“Ah yes!” Medeathe nods astutely. “The Alliance, full of Traitors…and Heretics…and Deserters-Tell Me, why does a Loyalist son of Corax himself, take orders from a Chaos inclined Night Lord?”

Claude hesitates. “Anrir is Not Chaos.”

“But your other Brother is…the one with a set of throne damned Bat Wings who made a mess of my front door.” He replies. “The other one with the foul mouth may not look it, but I can sense the Stink of that rotten warp corruption upon him…” He steps carefully around Claude who still has his bolter trained on him. 

For a moment Claude thinks to shoot the bastard dead, until he sees something move on the ceiling behind Medeathe. Instinctively, he knows who the dark shape is, and what it's signing. 

Can't shoot in here. Risk to babies. Keep him talking. 

So he allows Medeathe to keep talking. 

“And as for your…Anrir, he's a Traitor to the Imperium. All of his wretched ilk are.” Medeathe swears. “Even back in their ‘loyal’ times; nothing but a bunch of savage skin peelers looking to sow fear and get their fill of torture.”

The hypocrisy sets Claude off. “And what does that make you then!?” Claude snarls. “Look where you're standing, look at what you've done to these little ones and their families!” Claude gestures to the room of infants too young to be parted from their parents. “DON'T moralize to Me about torture, the torture you've put those human baselines and their mate's through by Stealing their children from their wombs is worse than anything the Nightlord's could do!”

The dark shape is almost in position now, but Claude is truly having to hold himself back from killing Medeathe outright. 

The Apothecary’s response is chilling, Claude can Feel the smile behind the helmet. “I am only continuing the good work I did before. The Imperium will need more Neophytes, more serfs, and of course…more servitors. It is only natural to pick from hybrids as they have an even better chance of surviving the process.” He gently places his hand on Claude's bolter. Claude allows him to move the gun down. 

He gestures to the cradle in front of Claude. The tiny female baseline with brown skin and fully pitch black eyes stares back. “And as for the spawns of Traitors like This little Night Lord, they will Finally have a chance at redemption.” Medeathe turns to the Raven Guard. “That's what you want too, isn't it?” 

Claude forces himself to not recoil as Medeathe reaches a hand out to gently touch his face. “Don't you want what you were promised…to serve the Imperium and Atone for the sins of your blood?” Medeathe breathes, thinking he's got the Primaris right where he wants him. 

That does catch Claude off guard. “How d-did you?”

“How did I know you have Traitor's blood?” Medeathe coos. “Oh dear child, it's written all over your face. And come now…why else would those wretched traitors tolerate an abomination like you?”

And all at once, the spell passes. Claude nods jerkily and almost…laughs. “Of course…”

“See, I told you you'd see sense.”

“No I mean of course you'd say something that's absolutely fucking HORSESHIT!” The laugh turns into a snarl as he slams his fist straight into Medeathe's helmeted face. The Ultramarine reels and falls back a few steps. 

“You wretched little Traitor bastard!” He curses and reaches for his own bolter. 

“Ah Ah AH!” Khopesh chimes gleefully, dropping from the ceiling and literally swiping the side arm away with a slash of his Lighting Claws. Before delivering a sharp kick to Medeathe's gut, sending him back to Claude. 

“You don't know ANYTHING!” Claude snarls, landing another devastating punch. “You don't Know ANYTHING! ABOUT! MY! FAMILY!” Claude locks in, just as he had the Last time he faced a bully, and starts beating the blue off Medeathe.  

“Not so much fun to be the one caught between, Is it Ultramarine!?” Khopesh snarls as he and Claude literally volly the apothecary back and forth as he fruitlessly tries to escape. 

“N-no!” The Ultramarine is beaten to the ground and tries to drag himself to his sidearm. 

CRUNCH! “ARGHGAAAAH!” 

“Ooops~” Khopesh chimes with sadistic glee as his armored boot Crushes the Ultramarine's wandering hand. 

Claude drags Medeathe back and locks his arms around the apothecary's neck. He tightens down and the Apothecary begins to lose consciousness. 

“You,” Claude huffs, his breathing is labored. “Are Under Arrest! You will be Tried! And you will ANSWER! FOR YOUR CRIMES!” The Apothecary struggles in his grasp before he goes limp, but Claude waits a few agonizing extra moments to make sure he is well and Truly out. 

Then he slaps on the Astarte grade restraints but as he does Claude is breathing hard, almost hyperventilating. He can barely hear Khopesh as he talks until…

“Claude…CLAUDE?!” Khopesh gently takes Claude by the shoulder. “You alright Claude?”

Claude feels his veins ice over. “They're all so small…” The little ones, taken from their mother's too soon. All in the hopes of What!? Making more neophytes!? Kidnapping and traumatizing and butchering mothers and children with metal and organ augments!? Even if it were possible to make Space Marines on Terra as the Imperium had, the children hybrid or not deserved a Choice on what they'd become. 

“Hey Hey! Look at me!” Khopesh snarls. “We Saved these little ones, and who knows how many more pregnant baselines?”

Claude nods, shakily, but he does. 

“Without you, they'd still be in Danger and that!” He points to Medeathe's unconscious body. “Fucking bastard, might be free to try again!”

“That's true.”

Khopesh smiles. “Of course I'm right. And now we need to focus on moving these little mites and getting them back to their families.”

“Well said Khopesh.” 

Claude and Khopesh turn and see Anrir and the other Night Lords filing in. 

“Father!” Claude, much like a child himself, feels so relieved to see his family. 

“Good to see you Anrir.” Khopesh greets. “We'll certainly need your expertise since the other apothecary is…” He glances to the unconscious Ultramarine, still held in restraints. “Out of commission.”

Anrir nods. “I assume there is a good reason for this.” 

Khopesh smiles wide. “You might need a Special Cell for this one.” Khopesh pulls out the recording he'd taken while Medeathe was rambling. 

Anrir's expression morphs subtly, and Khopesh gets Excited. Anrir is disgusted. Karlsor picks that up as well. 

“Ho ho ho, looks like we'll get to have a fuckin Party once we get this fucker back to base.” 

Anrir nods. “Yes…I think we shall.” He then sends a copy of the log to Horlux and Xerxes. With the additional message for Xerxes to receive Medeathe into custody. By which he means Ghosk and Karlsor haul (drag) the bastard outside so Xerxes can keep his and his pets eyes on him till he awakens. 

The elder Night Lord moves along the incubators, examining them and the infants inside. “The air inside these is laced with a sleeping agent. Not enough to be deadly, but enough to keep the little ones drowsy and quiet though I wouldn't be surprised if this room was also sound proofed…” Anrir grimaces, and he recognizes the IVs. “And they're hooked up to nutrient drips, and waste disposal tubes. The fool couldn't even be bothered to feed or change them by hand. Idiot.” Anrir growls. 

Khopesh feels his excitement Skyrocket. Not about the infants’ situation, fuck no this room makes him so angry it hurts. But Anrir being this angry means the retribution will be Slow and Aaaagonizing. 

Exactly! The kind he relishes, and the kind this misbegotten bastard deserves. 

“Our play time will have to wait, Khopesh, there is still much to do here.” Anrir points out. “Not only securing safe transport for these little ones, but turning this building upside down to ensure all relevant evidence is collected and no…unwanted surprises assail us. Oh come now…”

Anrir coos as one of the little ones begins to cry in their pod. Perhaps the gaseous agent that kept them calm is running out. He reaches one ancient hand to the little one and lays it against the glass. 

The little Night Lord gurgles, and puts her hand up against his, babbling with interest at this new face that she may or may not be able to see. “There now, isn't that better. Shhh…”

“Brrr-agalb-lphht.” The baby says in response, but she is calm now and Claude feels a more proper relief flow over him. 

Khopesh puts his hand on his younger brother's shoulder. “Well done Claudy, well done.”

Claude nods, and even blinks a bit. He Actually feels a bit of wetness coming to his eyes. They're happy tears, but still he wipes them away quickly. 

“Thanks…but we've got more work to do.” 

…

1 Day Post Mission

The Claw walks throughout the rest of the compound, their sweep after showing that the other shielded rooms held medical supplies, and documentation of the…experiments Medeathe was conducting. 

“I suppose he's lucky none of the little ones passed from this.” Ghosk sighs, thinking about the cluster fuck the Apothecaries had experienced moving all the offspring from their ‘nursery’ to the neonatal care unit at the nearby Steelix Base. 

Khopesh's grin splits open. “Not like it matters, he's a dead man regardless.”

Anrir nods as he gathers the documentation. “Too true. At the very least he was smart enough to not sign his name on these pages.” 

“But Not fuckin smart enough to realize that stealing offspring would land him where he is now.” Karlsor remarks. 

“To think a Son of Gulliman would fall so far.” Claude ponders. 

“Evil doesn't have a legion color, Claude.” Anrir hums, taking a moment to read over the medical study's findings. 

“And neither does Crazy.” Khopesh adds. 

2 Days Post Mission 

“We've cleared the entire structure Anrir.” Claude reports proudly, he's also holding a number of different documents. 

“Claudy found the last of the papers. Sniffed em out, through a wall.” Khopesh announces, also with pride. “Yeeesh, these are more…personal.”

Anrir cocks an eyebrow, somewhat unimpressed. Not by the find but what he imagines the pages entail. “Let me guess. ‘No one understands what I'm doing.’ ‘I am the only one who can lead us into the future.’ ‘Everyone else are Fools and will quake when I am finally allowed to put the brilliance of my research into the sunlight?’”

“Yep, pretty much.” Khopesh shrugs. 

“Eh seen one evil scientist motherfucker seen em all.” Karlsor huffs, and casts a pointed look at Anrir. 

Anrir is not amused. “Get back to work.”

…

3 Days Post Mission at the Steelix Base Neonatal Care Facility.

The Claw waits with varying levels of boredom or anxiety. Things have been wrapped up, the Warehouse is fully cleared, Medeathe is set for transport, everything is Done.

So whyyyyy are they stuck here!? Khopesh groans, mentally of course. Most of his energy comes from Desperately wanting to see you again. Oh he's missed your sweet voice and your warmth and your nest…

Karlsor is like Khopesh but not Quite as intense. Really his annoyance is being amplified by Khopesh's fidgeting, and that base annoyance comes from wanting to go home to his Sunshine. He can't act out directly so he settles for directing a Very low frequency growl at Khopesh to tell him to Stop Moving Dammit!

Ghosk is old and tired and annoyed and wants to pull his Rabbit into bed the Second he sees her. And he's mutually being annoyed by Khopesh fidgeting And Karlsor's noises. But he's better at tuning them out…

“Mother fucker I SWEAR if you don't hold fucking STILL!” Karlsor hisses, as Khopesh's leg keeps twitching. 

For the most part…

“Hush.” 

And immediately the line of Night Lords fall into order at the sound of their apothecary's voice. He'd been pulled into some kind of meeting, why they decided to have it here they have no clue. 

Luckily, Anrir explains. “It seems we are finally set to be dismissed from further duties related to this case.”

““Thank Fuck.”” Ghosk and Karlsor sigh in unison. ““Oh fuck. Fucking stop it motherfucker!” Claude and Khopesh can't help but snicker. “”The fuck are you fucking laughing at!?”

“Language!” Anrir chastises. Ghosk rolls his eyes, while Karlsor bites his tongue. “There is one last matter to handle.” Before the Claw can complain, Anrir continues. “One of our Legion Brothers wanted to thank us personally for our aid.”

A Legion brother? 

And indeed, through the same door as Anrir came an Astarte and a Baseline. The Night Lord has a dark Mohawk that sweeps down his neck and short buzzed sides. The human baseline has dark skin with a warm undertone, and her hair is done up with an elegant headscarf.

In her arms she holds a tiny bundle, with a face. 

“Is that…?” Claude asks as the woman and her mate approach. The Night Lord is on guard, even anxious with what has happened, but he knows this place is safe. 

And that he has these Battle Brothers to thank for the return of his little one. 

“I am Siros,” The Nightlord greets, “Nightlord Chaplain and this, is my bonded.” He has his arm wrapped sweetly around his mate. 

“My name is Folake, and before we…we leave to take her home I just…” Folake begins to tear up, but she forces herself to finish. “I just wanted…wanted to say Thank You.” 

She gently rocks the child in her arms. The little Night Lord with brown skin and her father's dark eyes. Claude smiles as he remembers her past form, and how much more peaceful she looks, free of that awful machinery. 

“Have you chosen a name yet?” Khopesh asks, also looking at the little one. He agrees, she looks much healthier. 

“Not yet…” Folake admits. “After everything that has happened…my Husband and I have been so caught up in just having her back, we haven't had time to think about it.”

The little one's eyes suddenly open, and she sees Claude. He's not sure if she recognizes him but she giggles and makes those silly noises again. 

“Abbabbab-plllthth-brrr..” Then she breaks into another giggling fit. Her mother actually cries on the spot and Siros can't seem to help but pull his family close and purr. 

“Your father has told me…that it was You that stopped him. The man who…who stole my daughter.” Folake says, once she's wiped the tears away. “So he couldn't hurt anyone else. Could you please, tell me your name?”

Claude blushes. “Ah well…It wasn't just me. My older brother Khopesh is the one who helped me take him into custody. And All of my brothers made the mission possible.” He explains, nervously. “My name is Claude.”

Folake seems to think for a moment. “Claude…Claude…Claudette!” 

“Brabblpthft!” The baby babbles happily  in response and her mother beams. 

“Do you like that? Do you like that name, my sweet child?” She nuzzles her baby, then turns to her mate. “What do you think, Siros?”

Siros reaches down a huge pale hand and tickles his little one, causing her to try and nibble his hand. He smiles a wonderfully soft smile. “I think it is a fitting name.”

Claude feels a variety of emotions but mostly overwhelmed, happy and a tad embarrassed. “Ah…thank you! Truly! It's an honor.”

Siros nods, then turns to Anrir and says something in Nostraman. “I appreciate your invitation, but I will need some time to spend with my family.”

Anrir smiles and responds in the same language. “He's not going anywhere, I'm happy to hold him until you have a chance to…visit.”

Siros smiles, and it is indeed a proper Nightlord smile. But then he turns back to his love. “Come my darling. Let us take our little Night Lord home.”

With that the family departs. 

Claude stands there for a moment slightly stunned. Well…it's not everyday you get a child named after you. But at the same time there's a…warmth he feels. 

Anrir takes notice and gently places a hand on his shoulder. “You have done well, my son.” Anrir's expression falls to become more somber. “But you must understand, not all of our missions will end so happily. This is the risk we undertake, even here where there is so much less conflict. It is not just a risk to our bodies, but to our hearts and minds as well. Do you understand?”

Claude nods. “I do father.”

Anrir nods in approval. “Good, now…let us go Home.”

“Fucking FINALLY!”

“Language Karlsor!”

…

Last stop before he's finally, FINALLY clear to call you, is a final debriefing at the Rot Bone Base. 

Captain Horlux addresses all of them. “Well done. Your performance on this recent mission was exemplary. Not only were all the pilfered offspring returned, but the perpetrator was brought to face justice.” A troubled look passes across the Black Legionnaire's face. “Medeathe was one of the Alliance's most expert apothecaries, especially in the area of hybrid deliveries. To lose that is a blow, but we will recover.”

“Hopefully his research notes can provide us some aid in training other apothecaries.” Anrir hums. “However mad he may be, the fact he was able to set up an entire nursery and keep all the infants from dying is testament to his skills.”

Claude doesn't like the comments about Medeathe, but again, they are technically correct. 

Horlux grunts, before picking up another sheaf of papers. “The only question that remains is How the bastard managed to abscond with all that medical equipment and supplies.”

Anrir agrees. “True, we'll have to keep him alive until we can ascertain if he was operating alone. It is not infeasible that Medeathe could have falsified the supply documents and removed or collected items over a longer period of time to build his lab. But it's just as plausible that he could have done so with outside help.”

Horlux nods. “He'll be turned into your custody for interrogation. I'll send the order now, and it should be processed in about a day.” The old marine huffs as he goes over the mountain of paperwork in front of him. 

“My condolences.” Anrir jokes, but the sentiment is genuine. 

“Yeah yeah, go on. You and your Claw are dismissed for now.” Horlux waves his hand. “But remember! Keep the bastard Alive until we can get that information out of him.”

Anrir salutes, and he and the Claw turn to leave. Claude notices Khopesh typing a message on his vox. 

“Trying to contact Lullaby?” He asks with a smile. 

Khopesh nods quickly. “Yep yes yes Yep, that last meeting was driving me Insane, but now we're dismissed and I can Finally contact them.”

Khopesh 🦇💙: Lullaby! I cannot wait to see you and hold you and LOVE you! When I see you I will pull you into my arms and not let go until the Sun Rises! 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Awe Babe!❤❤ That's so sweet! 

But you know I'm just in the bathroom. You don't need to text me from the living room. 

Khopesh 🦇💙 :Lullaby…what are you talking about? I am not in the living room, I am at the Rot Bone Base. I've only just been debriefed and released from my mission. 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Wait, then…who's here with me right now?

Khopesh's blood runs cold. His pace had turned from a swift walk to a run to full on sprint. Claude had kept pace as he noticed Khopesh's mood change from excited to fearful. 

“What's going on?” Claude asks as the two run through the base and outside. 

Khopesh 🦇💙: Do not panic. Stay in the bathroom and make an excuse like you're having stomach issues. Try to sneak out the window. 

Lullaby 🎶🌙: Okay. I love you. Please hurry!

Khopesh🦇💙: ❤

“There's a fucking Hydra in my Nest!” Khopesh snarls with Claude close behind. 

A soon to be very Dead, very Flayed Hydra. And if Anything happens to his Lullaby there won't be a single power on this world or any other that will be able to stop his wrath!