Chapter 114 - Turmoil

Gaius used all the meager but sincere words of comfort he could think of from his sixty-plus years as an Astartes Brother, awkwardly soothing the crying Aeldari lover in his arms. Perhaps his promise worked, or perhaps Ms. Kelis was truly exhausted from crying, for her violent trembling and sobs gradually subsided. She still leaned weakly against Gaius's broad, firm chest, as if it were the only harbor she could rely on. Tears soaked her thin white nightgown and also dampened Gaius's clothing. Her slender, cold fingers tightly clutched Gaius's large hand, as if it were the last piece of driftwood grasped by a drowning person.

She lifted her tear-filled eyes, her purple irises full of fear for the uncertainty of the future, her voice weak and trembling: "Gaius... if... if the Imperium... insists on... separating us... what... what should we do?"

She didn't ask, "Will you abandon me?" because she had already seen the answer in Gaius's eyes. She asked how they, a cross-species couple, should cope when facing the entire vast, cold, and alien-hostile Imperial machine.

Gaius's answer was without hesitation or any flowery words, only a promise as precise and firm as the reticle of his sniper rifle, "Hawkeye":

"I will protect you completely."

These five short words, however, were as heavy as Mount Tai. This was an oath he swore in the name of the Emperor, by the honor of the Ultramarines Chapter, and by his own life as Gaius. He pulled Ms. Kelis tightly into his arms again, using his warm body temperature to dispel the chill in her heart, and his solid presence to tell her that no matter what storm lay ahead, he would stand before her.

Just then, a few soft, restrained knocks on the cabin door broke the sad and tender atmosphere inside.

Gaius gently patted Ms. Kelis's back, carefully lifted her into his arms, placed her on the soft, large bed, and covered her with a blanket. Then he tidied himself, walked to the door, and opened it.

Standing outside the door was Tenth Company Captain Orpha. His iconic Mark VI helmet's crimson eye lenses were fixed on Gaius, and the 10th Company insignia on his shoulder pad was clearly visible in the corridor light.

"Captain," Gaius immediately straightened his body, pounded his right fist against his chest, and gave a standard military salute.

Orpha nodded, raising a hand to signal that he didn't need to be so formal. His gaze passed over Gaius and saw Ms. Kelis curled up on the bed, her eyes red and swollen. A complex emotion flashed in his eyes. He didn't say much, stepped into the cabin, and closed the door behind him.

He first removed his helmet, revealing a weathered but resolute face. He walked to the bedside and, facing Ms. Kelis, said in a solemn and steady tone: "Ms. Kelis, on behalf of the Macragge's Honour and the Ultramarines Chapter, I offer our sincerest apologies for the unpleasant incident that just occurred to you. It is our dereliction of duty that you were frightened on our battleship."

His apology was direct and sincere, without shirking responsibility. Then, he informed her of the outcome: "Regarding those three Grey Knights, Chapter Master Calgar has already ordered the confiscation of all their teleportation devices and their indefinite confinement to designated cabins. They are not to leave a single step without Chapter Master Calgar's direct order. Please rest assured, nothing similar will happen again."

Then, his tone softened slightly, carrying a hint of concern: "Additionally, Chapter Master Calgar instructed me to ask if you have any other material needs? The battleship's supply fleet will arrive tomorrow. If you need anything, whether it's clothing, food, or other items, you can request it, and we will prioritize supplying it to you."

Ms. Kelis lay on the bed, listening to Captain Orpha's words. The grievance and fear in her heart seemed to be somewhat soothed by this official apology and the subsequent measures. She gently shook her head, her silver hair spread across the pillow, her voice still a little hoarse: "Thank you, Captain. I... I don't need anything. I just want... to stay by Gaius's side... nothing else matters."

Her request was so simple, yet so profound. Orpha looked at her still pale face and swollen eyes, then at Gaius, who stood silently beside her, his gaze firm. He understood. He nodded slightly, said no more comforting words, but reached out and firmly patted Gaius's shoulder. The gesture contained understanding, support, and a heavy entrustment.

"Take good care of her," Orpha whispered, then put his helmet back on and left the cabin, once again leaving the space to the two lovers who needed each other's solace.

And this incident, like most "news" within the battleship, quickly reached Dorian, who was recuperating in the medical bay, through various channels.

When Dorian heard from the Apothecary who came to change his dressing about how the Grey Knights had frightened Ms. Kelis and even slandered Gaius as being bewitched, the brute instantly became furious!

"What?! Those three silver-clad cans dared to bully Ms. Kelis?! And dared to slander Gaius?!" Dorian suddenly tried to push himself up from the sickbed, as if to rush out immediately and settle accounts with the Grey Knights. However, he had forgotten that his gluteal injury had not yet healed. This violent movement instantly pulled at the wound, and a tearing pain shot through him, making him cry out "Ow!" before he slumped back down, grimacing in pain, his forehead instantly breaking out in a cold sweat.

"Hiss-- Ouch..." He lay on the bed, sucking in cold air while indignantly pounding the mattress with his fist, muttering angrily: "Damn it! If only the Captain hadn't been so harsh... beating me like this... I'd go right now and drag out Moreno and those three bastards, and use my Thunder Hammer to thoroughly clean out their intestines! Let them know who's not to be messed with on the Macragge's Honour!"

He completely forgot that he had just had his intestines "cleaned" by the Captain's maul, and now he was fantasizing about how to "educate" others with even more violent methods. His cowardly yet boastful demeanor made the Apothecary beside him shake his head helplessly.

Meanwhile, in another cubicle of the medical bay, Captain Cassius, who had only recently regained consciousness, also learned of the incident from his trusted Apothecary.

Although his body was still weak and his face pale, a cold fury instantly ignited in Captain Cassius's icy blue eyes. He frowned slightly from moving his wound, and his voice, though not loud, carried a bone-chilling coldness: "Where were they when that bastard Lucius invaded the battleship and massacred people inside? Playing dead? But when it comes to an unarmed, harmless xeno woman, they're so willing to put in the effort? Truly... 'good steel used on the blade' indeed!"

His sarcasm was sharp and direct, clearly showing his utter contempt for such "insider" behavior from the Grey Knights. The Apothecary, listening nearby, could only shake his head helplessly. His greatest wish now was for the Captain to rest and recover quickly, and he prayed that that plague god Dorian wouldn't cause any more trouble, leading to a relapse of the Captain's injuries.

However, his wish was destined to go unfulfilled.

Just as Captain Cassius was growing indignant over the Grey Knights' actions, his breathing becoming somewhat unstable, that loyal yet incredibly lethal blessed osseous unit servo-robot, like a ghost, silently floated to Captain Cassius's bedside, as if sensing the perfect moment.

Then, it began to play the latest "eavesdropping" record in its flat electronic voice, slowly and clearly—it was Dorian in the medical bay, gushing to the Apothecary about his "analysis" of the Captain's and Lieutenant Golden's "relationship":

"...The Captain and Lieutenant Golden often stay in the office for two standard hours... and the door is tightly shut! I have proof! I saw Lieutenant Golden come out, and his face was red! Although it might be because of staying up late... but what if it's something else? Don't you think? There's definitely something going on! I'd bet my newly issued rations on it!"

Captain Cassius listened to this absurd discourse, full of seemingly concrete details and constantly adding "new evidence." The anger that had just risen due to the Grey Knights was instantly replaced by a more intense, more suffocating surge of frustration! He felt a rush of blood to his head, his vision suddenly darkened, his chest felt as if blocked by a boulder, and he almost couldn't catch his breath!

"De... cla... n... You... you... bas... tard..." He struggled to raise a finger, as if to point at something, but his arm fell limply. His body twitched violently twice, his face instantly changing from pale to flushed, then to purplish-blue, and finally, his eyes rolled back. With a sudden gasp, he spat out a small amount of white foam with a "pfft" sound, his head lolled to the side, and he completely fainted again.

"Captain! Captain!" The Apothecary next to him was scared out of his wits, his face instantly turning from normal to pale, then greenish from extreme terror, and finally bloodless again! He practically lunged to the bedside, frantically checking Captain Cassius's vital signs while crying into the communicator, "Apothecary Vorlak! Emergency! Captain Cassius's condition has suddenly worsened! Comatose! Accompanied by convulsions and foaming at the mouth! Request immediate assistance! Repeat! Immediate assistance!"

He himself immediately began emergency resuscitation, attempting to stabilize the Captain's once again erratic vital signs. The medical bay instantly descended into chaos, alarm bells ringing shrilly.

And the blessed osseous unit, the culprit, still floated obliviously in place, recording this chaotic scene. It was foreseeable that when Captain Cassius awoke again, Dorian would face not just a 'loving' spanking.

Moreno, Kaldor, and Valerius, the three Grey Knights, were 'escorted' by a squad of grim-faced Honor Guard Warriors to a secluded cabin deep within the Macragge's Honour after all their personal teleportation beacons and devices were forcibly dismantled. This place was less a room and more a temporarily converted storage closet, small in space, with bare, unadorned cold metal walls that smelled of oil and dust.

The cabin was empty, devoid of any furniture or facilities, not even a simple rest stand. Only a low-powered light hung from the ceiling, emitting a dim and flickering yellow glow, working twenty-four hours a day, casting its meager light upon the three silver-armored giants, drawing swaying and distorted shadows at their feet. This environment, for Grey Knights accustomed to order and cleanliness, was undoubtedly a spiritual torment.

However, compared to the 'test' they were about to face, this harsh environment seemed to be nothing.

When the on-duty Honor Guard Warrior expressionlessly delivered their 'rations,' even the steel-willed Grey Knights couldn't help but look askance. It wasn't exquisite synthetic food, nor even the standard nutrient paste consumed by ordinary Astartes Brothers, but a suspicious grayish-green paste packaged in crude metal tubes with no labels on the surface.

This nutrient paste had a widely known and highly descriptive nickname within the Ultramarines Chapter—"Tyranid Excrement." The origin of this name was said to be the desperate cry of a veteran who, during the Cadia Gate campaign against the Tyranid 'Leviathan' fleet, had unfortunately tasted some excretions from within a Tyranid bio-ship, and then tasted this emergency reserve nutrient paste again afterwards. Its bizarre taste and awful texture were evident. It was known for its astonishing elasticity, which allowed it to be played with like play-doh, and its 'complex aroma' that mixed inferior rubber, expired disinfectant, and some indescribable chemical agents. It was the most unpopular reserve food on the battleship, only used in the most extreme material shortages.

Clearly, Chapter Master Calgar was using this method to express his extreme displeasure with the Grey Knights' unauthorized actions and frightening Ms. Kelis. It was a silent, yet highly insulting, punishment.

Valerius, the giant bearing the daemon smasher hammer, was usually taciturn and resolute. He looked at the 'Tyranid Excrement' tube casually thrown on the ground, then at the expressionless Honor Guard Warrior next to him, who seemed to be performing a routine task. He decided to face this 'challenge.'

He calmly reached out, picked up a tube of nutrient paste, and unscrewed the cap. He didn't do much mental preparation—for a Grey Knight, food was merely fuel to keep the body running, taste was irrelevant. He removed his helmet, revealing his weathered, hard-lined face, and then, without hesitation, squeezed about half a tube of the grayish-green, sticky paste into his mouth.

The next moment, Valerius's eyes, which were always as firm as a rock, as if they could face any demon without flinching, suddenly widened! It was a complex gaze mixed with extreme shock, disbelief, and strong physiological resistance! He felt as if his taste buds, upon contact with the paste, had been plunged into a swamp composed of rotten rubber, chemical waste, and expired reagents! That indescribably strange taste assaulted his sensory nerves like a battering ram!

His powerful chewing muscles instantly tensed, and veins even bulged on his forehead from extreme endurance! He tried to forcibly swallow this 'fuel' with the powerful willpower of a Grey Knight. His throat closed with difficulty, as if swallowing a spiky, elastic piece of rubber.

Ultimately, willpower triumphed over physiological instinct. He stubbornly, almost 'rammed' down half the tube of nutrient paste. However, the substance seemed to have a life of its own; even after entering his stomach, it continued its stubborn 'free fighting,' bringing waves of nauseating discomfort.

Valerius expressionlessly screwed the cap back onto the remaining half-tube of nutrient paste and placed it in a corner far from himself. He decided that unless he was truly facing starvation, he would never touch this stuff again. He even began to wonder if this was some new type of Warp attack specifically targeting Grey Knights.

Kaldor watched Valerius's reaction and the half-tube of 'relic' that had been put back. He hesitated. He picked up a tube, sniffed it closely, and the mixed scent made his head, covered by his crested helmet, involuntarily tilt back. He struggled for a long time, and in the end, he only symbolically dabbed a tiny bit with his fingertip, put it in his mouth, and then abruptly turned away, his shoulders slightly shrugging, clearly indicating that the taste was far beyond his tolerance.

As for Moreno, the Captain, his aquiline helmet was slightly lowered, looking at the small mountain of 'Tyranid Excrement' on the ground, enough to feed the three of them for several days. Even through his mask, one could almost feel his ineffable expression, and even his usually rock-steady eyebrows twitched almost imperceptibly a few times. He didn't even have the desire to try it, simply walked to a corner, sat cross-legged, and began to meditate, attempting to resist the material 'test' with spiritual focus.

The three Grey Knights, by unspoken agreement, chose to ignore the pile of ominous-smelling 'rations,' casting their gaze into the void or immersing themselves in inner meditation, as if the pile didn't exist at all. For them, hunger might be tolerable, but the taste of 'Tyranid Excrement' was truly a blasphemous experience beyond the whispers of Daemons.

Time passed, and the battleship entered its simulated nighttime period. The lights in the corridors dimmed, and the sound of patrolling footsteps became sparse. In this relatively quiet moment, a small, stealthy figure, using her familiarity with the battleship's structure and her knowledge of patrol routines, like a nimble pink fish, silently avoided several patrolling Honor Guard squads and crept to the special cabin located deep within the battleship.

It was Eiras.

The little one had heard from Luna or other sources during the day about the Grey Knights bullying Sister Kolaesa. At the time, her little face puffed up with anger, and tiny flames of fury burned in her big green eyes. Although she was usually mischievous, she was fiercely protective, especially of her beloved Sister Kolaesa, Lord Gaius, and Lord Dorian (even though Dorian often got beaten). In her simple logic, bullying the people she liked meant crossing her, Eiras!

She racked her brains, but her small mind had limited capacity, and she came up with a plan of revenge that she thought was very 'vicious'—steal the Grey Knights' food! Leave them with nothing to eat, make them hungry! See if they dared to be arrogant then!

So, under the cover of night, she secretly slipped out, using her small stature and familiarity with ventilation ducts and maintenance passages, to make her way to the door of the cabin where the Grey Knights were confined. She carefully lay by the door, pricking up her ears to listen to the movements inside. There seemed to be only faint breathing and a strange energy fluctuation, similar to meditation.

'Good! They must all be asleep!' Eiras secretly rejoiced. She looked at the simple mechanical lock on the door, pulled out a bent wire from her small toolkit—which she had 'borrowed' from somewhere—and began to fiddle with it in a practiced manner.

She was going to steal all those nasty nutrient pastes! Not a single one left! Let these three silver giants know the consequences of offending the little tyrant of the Macragge's Honour!

Eiras stuck her little bottom out, her pink head almost touching the cold metal door lock, as she carefully probed the keyhole with a bent wire, making faint 'click' sounds.

She was completely engrossed, her large green eyes sparkling with the excitement of imminent 'revenge,' her small face full of seriousness, as if completing a grand project.

She had even imagined in her mind the comical, bewildered, and hungry expressions of the three silver giants when they woke up tomorrow morning to find all the 'Tyranid droppings' gone!

Thinking of this, she almost couldn't help but laugh out loud.

However, joy turned to sorrow.

Just as she felt the lock cylinder was about to turn and victory was in sight, a huge yet incredibly steady hand, covered in dark blue power armour, silently reached out from behind her, precisely and irresistibly grabbing the back collar of her Tech-Sergeant uniform, then effortlessly lifting her entire body!

"Ah—!" Eiras, caught off guard, let out a short yelp, her limbs flailing and kicking in the air like a startled kitten.

"Let me go! Let me go! You hateful giant!"

The one who picked her up was a Honour Guard Warrior on patrol in the area.

He wore heavily modified, finely crafted power armour, like a moving steel fortress.

He lifted the struggling Eiras to his iconic eagle-faced helmet, and the crimson glow of his eye lenses scanned her puffed-up little face up close.

"Eiras?" The Honour Guard Warrior's voice, amplified by his speaker, carried a hint of confirmation and helplessness, "What are you doing here? This isn't where you should be."

His tone was relatively gentle but contained an undeniable admonition: "Your identity is very special, and Chapter Master Calgar has given orders to avoid approaching these Grey Knights as much as possible, understand? They are very dangerous."

Eiras, held like a chick, felt extremely humiliated, especially since her 'revenge' plan had failed.

She defiantly made a big grimace at the cold eagle-faced helmet, stuck out her pink tongue, and mumbled in protest: "None of your business! They bullied Sister Kolesa! I'm here to enforce justice! Put me down!"

The Honour Guard Warrior was long accustomed to Eiras's 'threats' and grimaces; this little one's title of 'Macragge's Honour Little Tyrant' was not for nothing, and though she had no real power, she was a master of making trouble and tattling.

He ignored her protest, simply holding her steadily and turning to walk towards the First Company's cabin area, his heavy footsteps echoing in the empty corridor.

Eiras, suspended in mid-air, still refused to give up, continuing to 'threaten' in her childish, unthreatening voice: "You're finished, I tell you! How dare you treat the King of Macragge's Honour like this! Just you wait! Tomorrow I'll tell the Chapter Master! I'll make him... make him clean toilets! For a month! No! For a year!"

The corner of the Honour Guard Warrior's mouth under his faceplate seemed to twitch slightly; he found such childish 'punishments' amusing.

He didn't just throw her back into her cabin but, with an 'educational' attitude, carried Eiras back to her little nest, cluttered with parts and various items.

As soon as they entered, the Honour Guard Warrior skillfully removed Eiras's oil-stained little boots and socks, revealing two tender white feet.

"You... what are you going to do?!" Eiras had a bad premonition, a flicker of panic in her large green eyes, trying to pull her feet back, but alas, she couldn't contend with his strength.

The Honour Guard Warrior didn't answer, but instead extended two of his power armour-covered fingers, using the feather pinched between his fingertips to lightly and quickly tickle the soles of her two small feet!

"Ah—!!! Hahaha... Stop it! Stop it! Hahaha... It tickles so much! I'm sorry! I'm really sorry! Hahaha... Luna, help me! Calgar, help me!" Eiras instantly burst into earth-shattering laughter and pleas for mercy.

She twisted desperately in the Honour Guard Warrior's grip, tears streaming down her face, all her 'tyrant' swagger gone.

The 'execution' lasted a full ten minutes, until Eiras was almost exhausted from laughing, her small face flushed red, before the Honour Guard Warrior finally stopped.

He looked at Eiras, who was slumped in the pile of parts, panting heavily, and glaring at him with resentful eyes, and said calmly: "Next time, don't sneak off to dangerous places, especially near the Grey Knights.

Remember that?"

Eiras let out a weak "Humph," turning her face away, which was a tacit acknowledgment.

The Honour Guard Warrior then turned and left, satisfied, the heavy hatch closing behind him, isolating the little one's 'grudges' within.

Meanwhile, in the Chapter Master's office, Marius Calgar had just finished processing a batch of tedious documents concerning the adjustment of production quotas for mining worlds within the Ultramar Sector.

He put down the electronic pen, which was too large even for him, and rubbed his slightly throbbing temples, feeling a profound weariness.

Handling administrative affairs sometimes required more mental effort than commanding a stellar war.

He picked up the special, astonishingly large coffee cup beside him and tilted his head back, downing the slightly cooled coffee in one gulp.

The amount of caffeine, enough to stop a mortal's heart, was merely a basic requirement for him to maintain high-intensity work.

After a slight boost to his spirits, he connected to the bridge's communication.

"Captain Lyris, report the latest movements of the Black Templars' Crusade Fleet," Calgar asked directly; this was one of the external intelligence matters he was most concerned about recently.

Captain Lyris on the bridge immediately responded, her voice clear and professional, but with a hint of subtle gravity: "Reporting, Chapter Master, the Black Templars' Crusade Fleet's last actively reported docking location was ten standard hours ago, in the 'Anchor of Nothingness' system, outside the Ultramar Sector.

According to Imperial Navy protocol and their previous behavior patterns, such large crusade fleets should update their regular position at least every two standard hours to ensure navigation safety and friendly force coordination."

She paused, then added her analysis: "Currently, no distress or combat reports have been received indicating the fleet encountered a Warp storm or engaged the enemy.

However, it cannot be ruled out that they are conducting high-intensity silent navigation, or are in an area where stable Warp communication is impossible."

Hearing this, Calgar's brow furrowed slightly, like deep lines carved into bedrock.

He had been closely monitoring the movements of this brother Chapter, which held an extreme hatred for xenos, especially during this sensitive period when the Ordo Xenos might have noticed the existence of Kolesa and Eiras.

The Black Templars' abnormal disruption of regular communication and their hidden whereabouts were not a good sign.

"Deliberately concealing their position..." Calgar murmured to himself, his fingers unconsciously tapping the armrest of his throne.

He was almost certain that this abnormal behavior was connected to the Inquisition.

The Black Templars had likely received news and were taking action.

Perhaps they intended to avoid the Ultramarines' surveillance and quietly enter Ultramar, directly attacking Macragge's Honour; or perhaps they were gathering forces, preparing for some form of 'negotiation' or 'interrogation'.

Whichever the possibility, it was extremely unfavorable for the Ultramarines.

A conflict with the Black Templars was something the Imperial high command would absolutely not want to see, but for him to hand over Kolesa and Eiras was also absolutely impossible.

Better safe than sorry.

The worst must be prepared for.

"Captain Lyris," Calgar's voice became decisive and resolute, "immediately issue a maximum alert order in my name to all Ultramarines successor Chapters patrolling within and around the Ultramar Sector!

Order them that, apart from necessary garrison forces, all main warships are to immediately converge on the central Ultramar region, centered on the Macragge system, and enter Condition One battle readiness!"

His orders were clear and precise: "Our primary alert targets, in addition to the ever-menacing Black Legion and its minions, now include one more—closely monitor the sector boundaries, raise vigilance, and take all necessary measures to prevent, or at least delay, the Black Templars' Crusade Fleet from entering the Ultramar Sector!

No Black Templars vessel is allowed to cross the boundary without my explicit permission!"

"Understood, Chapter Master! The order will be issued immediately!" Captain Lyris accepted the command without hesitation.

The communication was cut, and Calgar leaned back in his throne, his gaze fixed on the large star map on one side of his office.

The deep blue dots representing the Ultramarines and their successor Chapters began to converge towards the central region, like iron filings drawn by a magnet, according to his command.

Meanwhile, the crimson area representing the Black Templars, like a gaping maw hidden in the shadows, was of unknown location, yet its threat was imminent.

A great storm, born of internal secrets and external prejudice, was quietly approaching Ultramar.

The massive war machine of the Ultramarines was once again in full motion; this time, they needed to be wary not only of external enemies from Chaos and xenos but also of potentially loyal yet ideologically divergent... brothers from under the Emperor's banner.

Just as Calgar had anticipated the worst, when the simulated morning time within the warship had just arrived, with the eternal dark starry sky and scattered starlight still outside the window, Calgar had just barely finished processing another mountain of administrative reports and was about to take a brief respite when Captain Lyris's voice, carrying clear anxiety, came through the high-priority communication channel into his office:

"Chapter Master! The bridge just received a direct encrypted communication request from Grand Marshal Helbrecht, from the Black Templars' Chapter headquarters! They demand to speak with you personally!"

Calgar's heart sank abruptly, as if squeezed tightly by an invisible hand.

What was bound to come, had finally arrived.

And it was at the highest level—directly from the supreme leader of the Black Templars, Grand Marshal Helbrecht!

This was enough to prove the gravity of the situation and the importance the Black Templars attached to the matter.

He took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing the turmoil within him, and strove to maintain his usual calm and dignity.

As the guardian of Ultramar, the Chapter Master of the Ultramarines, he absolutely could not show any cowardice or panic at this moment.

"Connect it, Captain Lyris, transfer the communication to my office." Calgar's voice was steady, betraying no hint of emotional fluctuation.

"Yes, Chapter Master!"

Soon, the large holographic projection device in front of Calgar's throne lit up, and a clear and majestic phantom gradually materialized. It was a giant clad in black power armour, adorned with elaborate decorations, a massive crucifix, and the Imperial Aquila. Even through the communication projection, one could feel the mountain-like, heavy pressure, a culmination of countless bloody battles. He wore the Black Templars' iconic helmet, with rigid lines and a sense of religious solemnity, its visored eyes seemingly piercing through the void to gaze into Calgar's soul.

Despite the screen and the visor, Calgar could clearly feel the gaze projected towards him, filled with inquiry and an unyielding authority.

"Chapter Master Calgar," Grand Marshal Helbrecht's voice came from the other end of the communication, ancient, majestic, with a metallic resonance. He first maintained a superficial, basic respect for a Chapter Master.

Calgar nodded slightly in response: "Grand Marshal Helbrecht. To what do I owe the honour of your personal contact?" He asked, feigning ignorance, attempting to seize a sliver of initiative.

The Grand Marshal did not beat around the bush, cutting straight to the chase, his voice growing more severe: "Just yesterday, three of my frontline Marshals, currently engaged in the Seventh Crusade of Annihilation, simultaneously received verified, conclusive evidence provided by the Ordo Xenos." He deliberately emphasized the words "conclusive" and "verified."

Immediately, he manipulated something, and a processed video feed was simultaneously transmitted and displayed in a corner of the communication screen. Although the footage was somewhat blurry and taken from an awkward angle, it was still possible to discern fragments of Eiras's distinctive pink short hair and petite figure moving in a hangar, as well as a fleeting glimpse of Kolesa's profile in a nightgown walking through a corridor, and the Eldar's characteristic pointed ears!

"The evidence shows," the Grand Marshal's voice fell like a cold hammer of judgment, "that within the Ultramarines' flagship, the Macragge's Honour, there exists not only a Dark Eldar individual," he pointed to the image of Eiras, "but also an Aeldari Autarch-level xenos!" His finger moved to the image of Kolesa.

Seeing this conclusive video evidence, Calgar's face instantly turned ashen, an uncontrollable surge of rage mixed with icy coldness rushing to his head! His hand on the armrest of the throne clenched violently, and the hard adamantium armrest even let out a faint groan of protest. He wished he could now lead his fleet to storm the headquarters of the Ordo Xenos, drag out all those Inquisitors who hid in the shadows, stirring up trouble and fanning the flames, and stuff them into the sarcophagi of dreadnoughts to be converted into servitors!

But he couldn't. He had to remain calm.

Forcibly suppressing the anger that was almost bursting forth, Calgar exerted all his self-control, trying to keep his voice steady and rational, attempting one last effort to avert conflict:

"Grand Marshal, please allow me to explain." Calgar said in a deep voice, "Regarding these two... individuals on the battleship. Their situation is not as described by the Inquisition. The Dark Eldar individual, named Eiras, is a Tech-Sergeant. She has made outstanding contributions to the technical maintenance of the battleship and has received the approval of Primarch Guilliman. Her mind is like a child's, posing no threat. As for the Aeldari, she..."

Calgar quickly weighed his words in his mind; he couldn't reveal Kolesa's relationship with Gaius, as that would only complicate matters. "...She is an observer who temporarily remained on the battleship after reaching an agreement with us and providing critical assistance during a joint operation. Their presence is based on special circumstances and strategic considerations, not simply 'harboring xenos.' I guarantee, on the honour of the Ultramarines, that they pose no threat to the Imperium."

He tried to use "strategic considerations" and "Primarch's approval" to enhance his persuasive power, hoping to make the Black Templars show some restraint.

However, on the other end of the communication, Grand Marshal Helbrecht gave no response to Calgar's explanation. He simply listened quietly, his helmet-covered face showing no change in expression. It wasn't until Calgar finished speaking that he let out an extremely faint, yet disdainful and cold snort.

"Hmph."

Then, without any warning, the communication screen flickered violently, and Grand Marshal Helbrecht's phantom instantly vanished, the connection unilaterally severed, leaving behind a suffocating silence and flickering static.

Calgar's heart sank. This cold snort and decisive hang-up conveyed the Black Templars' attitude more clearly than any heated words—they simply didn't believe, nor did they care about Calgar's explanation. In their eyes, xenos were xenos, and no reason could excuse their existence.

"Damn it!" Calgar cursed under his breath, immediately opening internal communications, "Find Eiras and Kolesa immediately! Have them..." He had originally intended to order them to take the fastest shuttle to the homeworld of Macragge to temporarily avoid the storm.

However, before his order could be fully delivered, another urgent communication interrupted, from the Chapter Master of the "Iron Redeemer" sub-Chapter stationed at the edge of the Ultramar Sector:

"Chapter Master Calgar! Emergency military intelligence! The Black Templars' massive crusade fleet has arrived at the outer reaches of the Ultramar Sector, having completed its assembly at the edge of the Kosaro VII system! The scale far exceeds expectations! But they are currently not crossing the sector boundary, merely staying in the periphery, adopting a defensive formation, seemingly... for now, having no intention of actively entering and engaging in conflict."

This news made Calgar's pupils contract. The Black Templars' movements were faster than he had anticipated! Not only had they arrived, but they had brought their main force, directly pressing upon the border! Remaining at the boundary without entering was an extremely strong diplomatic and military stance, both a display of force and a final "ultimatum."

Calgar instantly understood their intention. They were not requesting; they were exerting pressure, backed by military might! They had left him the "opportunity" to "voluntarily surrender the xenos"; if he refused, what would happen next was self-evident!

"This is bad..." Calgar murmured to himself, immediately changing his orders, "Cancel the directive to go to Macragge! Immediately have Eiras and Kolesa go to the emergency shelter in the lowest level of the battleship! They are absolutely not allowed to leave without my direct command! Isolate all non-essential communications and scans in that area!"

He had to first protect Kolesa and Eiras, hide them, to prevent them from being directly exposed to the Black Templars' potential scrutiny or assault.

Immediately after, he connected to the general communication channel for the Black Templars' crusade fleet, his tone serious and formal: "This is Ultramarines Chapter Master, Marius Calgar. To the Black Templars' crusade fleet commander. Your fleet, without prior notification, has massed at the Ultramar boundary. What is your intention? Please state your intentions immediately!"

At the same time, he issued the highest alert order through the internal command link to all Ultramarines Fleet units: "All units attention! The Black Templars' fleet has reached the border! Enter Condition One battle readiness! All weapon systems online, shield energy maximized, fighter wings ready for launch at any moment! Do not fire the first shot without my command, but if attacked, full retaliation is authorized!"

The massive Macragge's Honour and its escort fleet, like awakened lions, instantly entered a state of readiness for battle. The hum of engines intensified, weapon turrets slowly rotated, and the urgent sounds of warriors running and checking equipment echoed through the corridors. A palpable tension permeated every inch of the air.

The communication did not wait long. Soon, a response came from the Black Templars' crusade fleet flagship, the "Eternal Crusader." What appeared on the screen was the figure of Grand Marshal Thule, the overall commander.

"Chapter Master Calgar," Grand Marshal Thule's voice came through his visor, his tone relatively calmer compared to Grand Marshal Helbrecht, but the Black Templars' unwavering resolve was undiminished, "We have no intention of engaging in unnecessary conflict with the Ultramarines, with the loyal brothers of the Imperium. The Emperor's warriors should not turn their blades upon each other."

He first stated his position to avoid civil war, which slightly eased Calgar's tense nerves, but the words that followed made his heart race again.

"However," Grand Marshal Thule's tone shifted, becoming unyielding, "the xenos threat concerns the very foundation of the Imperium, the purity of humanity, and allows for no compromise. According to the irrefutable evidence provided by the Inquisition, individuals of xenos species that must be purged are hidden aboard the Macragge's Honour. This is a matter of principle, with no room for concession."

He presented the Black Templars' final proposal: "To avoid armed conflict and prevent an Imperial tragedy, we propose: Grand Marshal Hekthom himself will lead a delegation composed of Sword Brethren members aboard an unarmed transport vessel to the Macragge's Honour."

He detailed the delegation's mission: "Upon boarding, Grand Marshal Hekthom will personally meet with you and, accompanied by you or your designated personnel, 'inspect' the relevant situation. If the situation is as stated..." Grand Marshal Thule's voice deliberately paused, emphasizing his words, "...then, please surrender the hidden xenos, for us to take away and 'handle appropriately.'"

He enunciated the words "handle appropriately" with particular clarity, their implied meaning unmistakable.

"This is the greatest extent of restraint and concession the Black Templars can make to avoid civil war," Grand Marshal Thule concluded, as if granting a great favour, "Chapter Master Calgar, please consider the greater good of the Imperium and make a wise choice. We will await your reply at the border. Time... is short."

The communication was cut again.

Calgar sat alone on the cold throne, facing the empty screen, his face so grim it could drip water. The Black Templars had given him a final ultimatum! Either surrender Kolesa and Eiras and watch them be "handled appropriately," or prepare for a bloody civil war between loyal Astartes!

This was an incredibly difficult, even cruel, choice. On one side was the Chapter's honour, the sworn oath to protect comrades, and his personal feelings; on the other was the stability of the Imperium, the immense responsibility to avoid kin-slaying.

The office was utterly silent, save for Calgar's heavy breathing and the low hum of his power armour's servo-systems. Immense pressure, like the weight of the entire Ultramar Sector, rested on his shoulders alone.

"Honor Guard! First Company!" Calgar's voice was like a drawn sword. "Full gear, live ammunition, in squads, control all critical passages, intersections, and strategic nodes of the warship! Be ready to respond to possible internal conflicts and boarding actions! Ensure absolute control within the warship!" His meaning was clear: if the Black Templars' delegation dared to make any rash moves within the warship, they should be prepared to face the Ultramarines' wrath.

The moment the order was given, the First Company warriors and Honor Guard warriors in Saturnine Pattern terminator armour, spread throughout the warship, immediately gave a muffled affirmation. The heavy footsteps echoed like war drums in the passages, and the deep blue figures, like a steel torrent, swiftly and orderly moved to their respective posts. The 'click' of bolters being cocked, the hum of power weapons activating, and the low roar of the terminator armour's servo systems running at full power, intertwined into a solemn prelude to war.

"Second Company!" Calgar's gaze swept across the star map, as if it could penetrate the armor and see the Black Templars fleet waiting outside. "Immediately gather at the main hangar! Inspect and equip boarding gear! thunderhawk gunships and stormraven gunships to pre-heat status! Your mission is, should negotiations break down, or if the enemy makes any unusual moves, immediately execute counter-boarding actions, or, if necessary, launch a boarding assault on enemy ships!" This was the most direct show of force against the Black Templars fleet, demonstrating that the Ultramarines were not afraid to compete with any opponent in a boarding battle.

The warriors of the Second Company were renowned for their swift assaults and boarding capabilities. Captain Cato Sicarius and his second-in-command, Demetrian Titus, immediately accepted the order, leading their warriors, sharp as drawn blades, like a blue storm, towards the massive main hangar. There, ground crew and Tech-Priests had already begun the final pre-flight checks for the large assault craft.

"Third Company, Fourth Company!" Calgar continued to order, "Board the forward Strike Cruisers 'Cleansing Blade' and 'Iron Bulwark'! Take up combat positions, forming a triangular formation with the Macragge's Honour, to support the flagship in potential fleet-level engagements! Ensure fire projection and area denial capabilities!"

The warriors of the Third and Fourth Companies excelled at positional warfare and fleet coordinated operations. The two Captains immediately organized their warriors to board the transport shuttles that came to dock, heading to their respective Strike Cruisers. Outside the warship, the massive hull began to subtly adjust its posture, the macro-cannon arrays slowly rotated, and the faint blue glow emitted by the charging lance emitters flickered on the hull's surface.

Calgar's voice, as cold and hard as colliding glaciers, was clearly transmitted through the Chapter's internal command communication network to every Company Captain and warrior at key positions. His orders were concise, swift, and filled with unquestionable resolve, instantly shifting the entire Macragge's Honour and its escort fleet from a tense standby state to a practical, pre-combat deployment.

Order after order, like precise gears, fully activated the Ultramarines, this massive war machine. The air was filled with the smell of oil and steel, and every warrior understood that they might be facing a situation, extremely rare in ten millennia, of armed conflict with loyal brothers of the Imperium.

After issuing this series of extremely tough military deployment orders, Calgar took a deep breath, the air seemingly carrying the scent of rust and resolve. He connected to Captain Lyris on the bridge, his face terribly grim, almost gritting his teeth as he squeezed out the command of approval:

"Lyris... reply to Marshal Thule. Grant... Marshal Hekthom of the Black Templars, and his delegation, permission to board the Macragge's Honour aboard an unarmed vessel."

These words were spoken with extreme difficulty, each word seemingly weighing a thousand pounds. This appeared to be a compromise, a retreat to avoid conflict, but only Calgar himself knew that it was more like striking a match next to a powder keg. He had placed the negotiation stage inside his own warship, and the risks and uncertainties were even more perilous than direct war in the void.

"Yes, Chapter Master!" Captain Lyris clearly felt the extreme suppressed rage in Calgar's words, but she did not hesitate, immediately sending out the message of consent.

Then, Calgar reconnected to the internal channel, this time directly contacting Honor Guard Captain Vitrius, Fifth Company Captain Havis, and Eighth Company Captain Sibilus.

"Vitrius, Havis, Sibilus." Calgar's voice was icy. "The three of you, personally lead your teams. Select the most elite, most reliable Terminator squads. Proceed to the docking port area to 'welcome' our 'guests'." He emphasized the words "welcome" and "guests," the implications of which were self-evident. "Keep a close eye on them, ensure they conduct their 'inspection' under our 'escort'. Without my command, do not allow them to leave your sight, and absolutely do not allow them to access any non-designated areas or personnel!"

"Understood, Chapter Master!" The three replied in unison, their tones filled with a chilling resolve. They knew the importance of this mission; it was not just a matter of ceremonial reception, but of the strictest surveillance and deterrence.

Beyond the overt arrangements, another highly encrypted secret order silently emanated from Calgar's throne, transmitted to the 9th Company, currently on patrol duty in the outer Ultramar Sector, and several other strategically located, rapidly responding Ultramarines successor Chapters.

The order was concise and lethal: [Effective immediately, execute Second Contingency Plan. All units enter communications silence, activate short-range Warp jump engines. Target coordinates: outer perimeter of the Black Templars' Crusade Fleet assembly area. Mission: Infiltrate and stand by. If 'Codex Judgement' code is received, immediately reveal yourselves, complete the tactical encirclement of the Black Templars fleet, and initiate highest-level show of force.]

This was a hidden move, Calgar's last resort for the worst-case scenario. If negotiations completely broke down, and the Black Templars attempted to use force to search or even attack, then these blades lurking in the shadows would deliver an unexpected, heavy blow to the enemy, at least creating a powerful deterrent, forcing them to hesitate.

On the bridge of the Black Templars' Crusade Fleet flagship, the 'Eternal Crusade'.

After receiving the Macragge's Honour's reply granting access, Marshal Thule's helmeted face showed no expression, but the aura around him seemed to ease slightly. In his view, this was undoubtedly the Ultramarines ultimately choosing to compromise under the Black Templars' strong military pressure and on a matter of principle, a concession made to avoid civil war.

"Brother Hektor," Marshal Thule said to Marshal Hekthom, who was standing by, "You will personally lead the team. Select two squads of the most elite Sword Brethren, and have Chapter Champion Amaryk accompany you. Board the 'fire of faith' and proceed to the Macragge's Honour."

The 'fire of faith' was a specially modified fast Strike Cruiser, emphasizing speed and defense. It had, as requested, proactively deactivated all its weapon systems to demonstrate its 'unarmed' sincerity.

Marshal Hekthom calmly accepted the order: "For the purity of the Emperor, I will fulfill my mission." He immediately began selecting his retinue. Two squads, a total of twenty Sword Brethren warriors clad in black power armour, bearing crosses on their chests, and with fervent eyes, quickly assembled. At the same time, a warrior in particularly striking attire also walked up to Hektor.

He wore an extremely ancient Mark II helmet with unique breathing grilles, signifying his long years of service. Over his black power armour, he wore a simple, scripture-embroidered robe. Most strikingly, above his power pack, half a relic of an unknown saint was solemnly affixed, emitting faint but pure psychic fluctuations. He was Chapter Champion Amaryk, known for his unwavering the lion's due/loyalty (great sword) and unparalleled swordsmanship.

Soon, this delegation, representing the will and might of the Black Templars, boarded the 'fire of faith', whose weapon systems were completely offline. The cruiser's engines ignited, detaching from the massive fleet, and like an arrow released from a bowstring, it sped towards the core area of the Ultramarines Fleet, the mobile fortress-like Macragge's Honour.

They came with the determination of "mission accomplished," but evidently did not fully realize the towering rage suppressed behind Calgar's seeming compromise, and the layers of hidden moves he had laid out for it.

Meanwhile, inside the Macragge's Honour, a tense and secretive transfer operation was also underway simultaneously.

Kolesa and Eiras were completely unaware of the suddenly escalating tensions outside. They were originally in Gaius's cabin; Kolesa was reading, while Eiras was still sulking about having her feet tickled last night, fiddling with her parts, her little head nodding, seemingly dozing off again.

Suddenly, the cabin door was pushed open, and Gaius and Luna appeared in the doorway, their faces more serious than ever, even with a hint of urgency. Behind them followed four fully armed Honor Guard warriors in terminator armour, their heavy presence almost solidifying the air.

"Gaius? Luna? What's wrong?" Kolesa immediately sensed something amiss, put down her data-slate, and stood up, her purple eyes filled with confusion and a touch of unease.

Eiras was also startled by the scene, shrinking her neck, hiding behind Kolesa, revealing only half of her pink head and a pair of large green eyes, looking timidly at the doorway.

"No time for detailed explanations, Kolesa." Gaius's voice was low and urgent. He stepped forward, taking Kolesa's hand. "The Chapter Master has ordered that you two be immediately transferred to a secure area on the lowest deck of the warship. Come with us, quickly!"

Luna also stepped forward, picking up the still-dazed Eiras without a word, while giving Kolesa a look that said, "Trust us."

Although Gaius and Luna were not clear on exactly what had happened to put the entire fleet on highest alert, even with the boarding-specialized Second Company prepared for deployment, they deeply understood the gravity of the Chapter Master's orders. They unconditionally trusted Calgar's judgment; the most important thing now was to follow instructions and protect the people important to them.

Eiras, held in Luna's arms, rubbed her still-sleepy eyes, her small face full of pre-waking confusion. In a childish voice, she asked, "Lady Luna... what's happening? Why are we changing where we sleep? Are Lord Gaius and Sister Kolesa going too?"

Luna, holding her, hurried to keep up with Gaius's pace, passing through busy and solemn corridors, surrounded by the Honor Guard, while reassuring her in as calm a voice as possible: "Eiras, be good. We're taking you to the deepest part of the warship for a special maintenance task; it might take a while." She knew how to distract the little one. "But there's lots of delicious food prepared there, the newest flavored fruit jellies, and soft big bread, you can eat as much as you want. Gaius and Kolesa are going there to... rest and assist us."

Eiras, naturally, had no doubt about Luna's words. As soon as she heard about "the latest flavor of synthetic jelly" and "as much bread as you can eat," her large green eyes instantly lit up. The earlier fear and confusion were immediately replaced by a longing for delicious food, and she almost couldn't help but drool, nodding repeatedly: "Okay, okay! Let's go on a mission! Eiras is best at maintenance!"

Meanwhile, Kolesa, holding Gaius's hand tightly, followed the group, moving quickly. Although she was also confused, seeing the undisguised serious expressions on Gaius and Luna's faces, and feeling the tense atmosphere in the corridor and the frequent movement of warriors, she understood that something extremely serious must have happened. She didn't ask any more questions, just silently squeezed Gaius's hand, trusting him and entrusting her safety completely to him.

Amidst this grim atmosphere, the group hurried towards the emergency shelter, located in the deepest, most protected part of the warship. Above them, a grave "negotiation" was about to begin, one that would determine the fate of many and could even trigger an internal earthquake within the Imperium.

Guided by the Ultramarines' navigation signal, the fire of faith, like a docile lamb, slowly entered the Macragge's Honour's vast, starport-like docking bay. As the hatch opened, Marshal Hekthom stepped out first, his magnificent black power armour reflecting a cold, eerie glow in the bright interior lighting. Following closely behind him was Chapter Champion Amaryk, his ancient Mark II helmet and the saintly relics on his power pack particularly conspicuous. Behind him were two squads of twenty Sword Brethren warriors, their eyes sharp and their aura formidable. They moved in unison, silent and solemn, like a black iron current.

Greeting them were Honour Guard Captain Vitrius, along with Captain Harvis Bel of the Fifth Company and Captain Sibilus of the Eighth Company. The three high-ranking Ultramarines commanders were also fully armed but showed no overt hostility. Their mountain-like composure and sharp gazes, however, invisibly formed a solid barrier. Behind them stood two rows of Honor Guard Terminators, like steel statues, their heavy Saturnine Pattern armour and crimson visors exuding a weighty sense of oppression.

"Marshal Hekthom, I am Vitrius, Captain of the Ultramarines Honor Guard, here to welcome you all on the orders of Chapter Master Calgar. Welcome to the Macragge's Honour." Vitrius stepped forward, his voice, amplified through his helmet's vox-caster, steady and formal.

"Captain Vitrius, thank you for your hospitality." Marshal Hekthom responded in an equally polite tone, both sides maintaining a superficial restraint.

Led by Vitrius and his two captains, the Black Templars contingent moved through brightly lit corridors where a few non-combat personnel and Tech-Priests still bustled about. Initially, the atmosphere, though serious, was still somewhat normal. However, as they delved deeper, reaching a pre-cleared, extremely spacious giant deck typically used for large equipment assembly or troop muster, the environment abruptly changed.

The scattered personnel in the corridor had completely vanished, replaced by figures standing like an iron forest!

Upon reaching the center of the deck, Vitrius, Havis, and Sibilus stopped and turned, directly facing the Black Templars delegation. Behind them, the two rows of Honor Guard Terminators who had been following swiftly fanned out, merging with the numerous comrades already standing at attention around the deck, forming an invisible encirclement.

Marshal Hekthom's gaze swept across the empty, grim deck, his heart sinking slightly. He could feel a palpable tension in the air, a tension that had yet to erupt.

Captain Havis stepped forward, his voice, transmitted through his 'Indomitus' pattern helmet, carried the characteristic calm and rationality of the Ultramarines: "Marshal Hekthom, we understand the Black Templars' boundless the lion's due/loyalty (great sword) to the Emperor, and we are deeply aware of the immense sacrifices and tireless efforts you, our brothers, have made to cleanse the galaxy and eliminate xenos threats. The Ultramarines pay our respects to this."

He first offered affirmation, a negotiating tactic. But then, his tone shifted: "However, regarding the matter you are concerned with on this visit, we must state clearly that it falls under the internal affairs of the Ultramarines Chapter. The individuals you referred to are currently under our supervision. After extensive observation and assessment, we can confirm that they have shown no intention or behavior harmful to the Imperium or humanity. We trust that their existence is controllable and harmless."

Havis's tone gradually hardened: "Therefore, based on the Chapter's independent jurisdiction and our trust in our own judgment, we cannot fulfill the demands of your esteemed party. We ask Marshal Hekthom, and our Black Templars brothers, to truthfully report our stance to Grand Marshal Helbrecht upon your return, and to understand our position."

This statement amounted to a direct yet polite rejection of the Black Templars' core demand.

Marshal Hekthom seemed to have anticipated this. He did not get angry, his helmeted face betraying no emotion. He simply responded in his steady, conviction-filled voice: "Captain Havis, Captain Vitrius, Captain Sibilus. We, too, do not wish to see loyal brothers clash in arms. That would be a tragedy that would pain our kin and please our enemies, akin to the Imperium's left and right arms slaughtering each other, a sight the Emperor would never wish to witness."

He first expressed a desire to avoid conflict, but then, his conviction was revealed like a drawn sword: "However, some principles stand above all else, allowing for no compromise or defilement. The Emperor's will dictates that humanity is the sole master of the galaxy; any non-human xenos, regardless of their appearance, are inherently a cardinal sin, an encroachment upon the pure domains of mankind. This is an eternal truth."

His voice carried a religious fervor and an unquestionable certainty: "The Emperor abhors all xenos. This is recorded in the sacred texts, lauded by the Ecclesiarchy. As a cornerstone of the Imperium, and the pride of the Regent, the Ultramarines should uphold this law, cleanse your own house, and not tolerate evil under the guise of 'internal affairs'! Hand over the xenos, and only then can the purity of the Imperium be maintained and the Emperor's glory defended!"

He attempted to use the Emperor's "abhorrence" and the "greater good" of the Imperium to override the Ultramarines' "internal affairs" argument.

Captain Havis listened, then fell silent for a moment. Afterwards, he let out an almost inaudible sigh, a sigh that seemed to carry a hint of nostalgia for the relatively rational era ten millennia ago. When he spoke again, his tone had become cold and resolute:

"Marshal Hekthom... It seems words can no longer bridge the ideological chasm between us. The Imperium... is no longer the Imperium of ten millennia ago, an Imperium guided by rationality and the spirit of crusade..."

The moment his words fell—

"Clang! Clang! Clang!"

Heavy, drum-like footsteps suddenly echoed from all directions! The Saturnine Terminator Honor Guard Warriors, who had been standing at attention on the edge of the deck like a backdrop, simultaneously took a step forward! The tremor caused by their perfectly synchronized movement seemed to make the entire deck tremble!

The encirclement formed by dozens of steel giants instantly tightened, like a cold wall of steel, firmly enclosing the twenty-two Black Templars in the center! The thick muzzles of storm bolters subtly lifted; though not directly aimed, the invisible deterrent force pressed down like a tangible weight! Huge Power Fists clenched tightly, and a low hum of servo-motors powering up emanated from the joints. Every pair of crimson visors was like the eye of a beast locking onto its prey, focusing intently on the Black Templars!

This sudden turn of events instantly tensed the nerves of the Black Templars warriors! The Sword Brethren members instinctively adjusted their stances, hands already on their bolter pistols or power sword hilts! Chapter Champion Amaryk's ancient Mark II helmet snapped towards Havis, his robed body leaning slightly forward, one hand already reaching for the crucifix-adorned bolter hanging at his waist! The atmosphere instantly became fraught with tension, like a fully drawn bowstring, ready to snap at any moment!

However, that wasn't all.

Just as the Black Templars were drawn to the Terminator encirclement on the ground, high above the deck, on the gantries and platforms used for maintenance and observation, dark blue figures appeared silently. They knelt or crouched like ghosts in the shadows, their long and deadly bolter sniper rifles already set up, their dark muzzles gleaming with a cold light in the dimness, silently pointing at every Black Templars warrior below, especially Marshal Hekthom at the forefront and Champion Amaryk, who had adopted a defensive posture.

These were the Custodian Guard of the First Company, the most elite snipers among the Ultramarines. Their appearance meant that any rash movement could invite precise and deadly strikes from above.

Captain Havis's voice broke the suffocating silence once more. His tone remained calm, but the will contained within that calmness was harder than steel:

"Marshal Hekthom, Champion, and our Black Templars brothers." His gaze swept over their hands, already on their weapons, "Please remain calm. Put down your weapons, and do not make any resistant movements that could lead to misjudgment."

He deliberately slowed his speech, every word crystal clear: "The matter will be resolved peacefully. We do not wish to see the blood of the Emperor's loyal warriors stain this deck."

He paused slightly, the unspoken threat like a cold dagger pressed against the throats of the Black Templars.

"Otherwise..."

He did not utter those last two words, but everyone understood what they implied. It would be an internal conflict—a rare and disastrous event among loyalist Astartes for ten millennia! And in this heavily surrounded environment, with snipers locked on, the fate of a Black Templars delegation that initiated hostilities was all too clear.

The entire spacious deck fell into a deathly silence. Only the faint hum of power armour servo-systems operating at minimum power, and the dozens of chilling cold light points reflected from sniper rifle scopes, silently spoke of the Ultramarines' resolve and power.

Marshal Hekthom stood frozen, feeling the palpable pressure from all directions. The Sword Brethren he brought were indeed elite, but against the absolute numerical superiority, and the absolute positional advantage and initiative of the Ultramarines Honor Guard and Custodian Guard snipers, any resistance would be futile, even suicidal.

The humiliation of laying down arms, or a valiant death for his the lion's due/loyalty (great sword)? A difficult choice lay before the Black Templars Marshal.

Deep within the warship, in a highly secluded lounge typically used by a few maintenance personnel, the atmosphere was a stark contrast to the grim tension on the upper deck. It was brightly lit, stocked with spare parts and tools, and the air was thick with the scent of machine oil and synthetic lubricants. Eiras sat on an overturned toolbox, her legs dangling, happily devouring a box of the latest flavor of synthetic jelly that Luna had promised her, her cheeks puffed out.

Beside her, several Tech-Priests responsible for maintaining the environmental systems in this area were busily checking data-slates and pipe connections. After a few bites, Eiras's eyes darted around, and she began her usual mischief. She scooped a large spoonful of jelly, leaned towards a Tech-Priest with his back to her, and in her childish yet clearly teasing voice, said:

"Hey, oil-man! Want a taste? It's super yummy!" She wiggled the spoon in her hand. "Call me 'Lady Eiras,' and I'll give you a bite, how about that?" With that, she deliberately took a big 'nom' and stuffed all the jelly from the spoon into her own mouth, chewing triumphantly, her large green eyes curving into crescents.

The Tech-Priest's head, covered by a metallic faceplate and optical bionics, didn't even turn. He merely emitted a series of binary whispers signifying helplessness and refusal, then became even more 'focused' on the data-slate in his hand, as if it held the ultimate mysteries of the universe, completely ignoring the noisy little pink dot beside him.

Seeing that the other party ignored her, Eiras pouted in boredom and continued to tackle her jelly.

In another corner of the lounge, the atmosphere was much more somber. Kolesa nestled in Gaius's broad and firm embrace, seeking solace. However, for some unknown reason, a strange sense of unease and anxiety continuously washed over her like a cold tide, preventing her from truly calming down. It felt as if something extremely repulsive and threatening was approaching.

Her delicate brows furrowed slightly, and a hint of doubt and worry flashed in her purple eyes. After a moment of hesitation, she gently broke free from Gaius's embrace, walked to the cold metal wall, and slowly pressed a fair hand against the rough surface.

She closed her eyes, concentrated, and the psychic energy belonging to an Aeldari Autarch within her began to flow like a trickle, carefully passing through her palm and into the structure of this massive steel creation. Her senses extended upwards along the metal veins, through layers of decks, past countless chambers and corridors... At first, it was a blurry cacophony and countless life energy fluctuations, firm and orderly, belonging to the Ultramarines. But soon, after she deliberately guided and intensified her psychic output, her 'perception' locked onto an extremely wide area with an unusually concentrated energy signature—that was the massive upper deck used for mustering!

She 'saw' them! A large number of Ultramarines Honor Guard, clad in deep blue power armour and exuding a cold, deadly aura, formed a circle like a forest of steel. And at the center of that encirclement were more than twenty figures... radiating a completely different aura! That aura was filled with religious fervor, an extreme hatred for Xenos, and a deep-seated, bone-chilling sense of fear that was etched into her very being!

The familiar black cross painted on white shoulder pads! The familiar psychic glow emanating from the reliquaries of saints mounted above their power packs!

It was the Black Templars!

They had truly come! And they were on this very warship!

"Ah—!" Kolesa's eyes snapped open, and she let out a short, terrified scream, her body involuntarily staggering back a step, her face instantly turning ashen white.

This startled Eiras, who was engrossed in eating. The little one almost choked on her jelly and began to cough violently, her small face turning beet red. Luna quickly stepped forward to pat her back.

"Kolesa? What's wrong?" Gaius rushed forward, supporting the tottering Kolesa and pulling her back into his embrace, his voice filled with concern and urgency. He could clearly feel her body's coldness and violent trembling.

Kolesa clutched Gaius's arm tightly, her knuckles white from the effort. Her voice, filled with uncontrollable fear and trembling, came out in broken fragments: "It's... it's... it's the Black Templars! They... they've come aboard the warship! I sensed them! On a large deck above! They... they're surrounded... but... why are they here?! Is it for... for us?!"

Gaius and Luna's hearts simultaneously tightened at the words "Black Templars," and they instantly understood everything! Why Chapter Master Calgar had suddenly ordered the fleet to maximum alert, why he had them swiftly transfer Kolesa and Eiras to this most secluded lower deck! The news must have leaked! The Black Templars had learned of the Aeldari on the Macragge's Honour, and their purpose in coming was self-evident—it was for Kolesa and Eiras! The so-called "inspection" and "negotiation" would inevitably culminate in taking them away as "Xenos" for "purification"!

Gaius and Luna exchanged glances, both seeing solemnity in the other's eyes, but even more, determination. Luna gently patted Kolesa's shoulder, while Gaius held her tightly, comforting her with a steady and reassuring voice:

"Don't be afraid, Kolesa. Calm down." He whispered, "Since the Chapter Master transferred you here, it proves he absolutely did not compromise with the Black Templars! He protected you precisely to deal with this situation. You must trust Chapter Master Calgar; he will never allow anyone to harm you, nor will he hand you over. The Ultramarines never abandon their comrades."

Luna also added, her tone equally firm: "Yes, Kolesa. What we need to do now is trust the Chapter Master and stay here safely. They will handle what's happening outside."

Meanwhile, on the upper giant deck, the outcome of the standoff was already clear.

Marshal Hekthom stood frozen in place, feeling the crushing pressure from all directions, like steel shackles, and the chilling glints of death reflected from the sniper scopes above. His Sword Brethren warriors and Chapter Champion Amaryk, though still maintaining combat stances and gripping their weapons, all understood that in this absolutely disadvantageous situation, any resistance would be futile, not only dooming themselves but also immediately igniting a catastrophic civil war, and they would be the culprits for starting the conflict.

To uphold their faith and die gloriously? Or to temporarily endure, preserve their strength, and plan for later?

This difficult choice rapidly weighed on Marshal Hekthom's mind. Ultimately, the apprehension of the consequences of initiating a civil war, and the responsibility to preserve the lives of these loyal brothers around him, outweighed the impulse for immediate martyrdom. He could not allow himself and these elite warriors to die here meaninglessly in an action destined to fail.

He slowly, with extreme difficulty, released his hand from his weapon, then raised both hands in a gesture of surrender. His deep voice resonated through the vox-caster, carrying a hint of imperceptible humiliation and gravity:

"Lay down your weapons."

"Marshal!" Chapter Champion Amaryk let out an unwilling growl, his head, covered by an ancient helmet, sharply turning towards Hektor.

"Execute the order, Champion!" Hektor's voice suddenly became stern. "For... a greater purpose."

Amaryk clenched his fists tightly, his knuckles cracking. Finally, he very reluctantly and slowly moved his hand from his bolter. Seeing this, the Sword Brethren warriors behind him could only suppress their burning anger and the frustration of their faith being thwarted, and one by one, released their weapons.

Captain Vitrius waved a hand, and the surrounding Honor Guard Warriors immediately stepped forward, swiftly and professionally confiscating all weapons from the Black Templars delegation, including their personal bolters, power swords, chainswords, and the Chapter Champion's ornately decorated power sword.

On the way to escort them off the deck to a temporary holding area, Vitrius walked beside Marshal Hekthom and said in his calm, unruffled voice: "You should count yourselves lucky, Marshal Hekthom."

Hektor remained silent.

Vitrius continued: "Lucky that Brother Dorian is still recovering in the medical bay. Otherwise, given his personality and his protectiveness of his comrades, if he knew your true purpose for this visit..." He paused, his tone carrying a profound implication, "Then, I'm afraid I couldn't guarantee to the Chapter Master that you would leave as... 'intact' as you are now."

His words were not an idle threat. Dorian's impulsiveness and fierce loyalty were well-known, especially concerning Kolesa and Eiras.

Meanwhile, according to the pre-arranged plan, a crack assault team personally led by Captain Sicarius of the Second Company had swiftly and efficiently secured the Strike Cruiser 'fire of faith' moored in the docking bay. The few Black Templars crew members left on board, facing overwhelming force, were disarmed and confined with hardly any meaningful resistance. Sicarius ensured that all communication links between the vessel and the outside were severed, preventing them from sending any distress or warning messages to the main expeditionary force.

Everything was proceeding orderly and under Chapter Master Calgar's control.

Soon, Captain Havis sent a short, encrypted message to Chapter Master Calgar on the bridge: ["Guests" are safely accommodated, "gift" received.]

Upon receiving this message, which signified mission success, the tension on Chapter Master Calgar's face, which had been tight, finally eased slightly. He immediately connected a communication request to the 'Eternal Crusade,' the flagship of the Black Templars expeditionary fleet.

The communication was quickly established, and Marshal Thule's image appeared on the screen.

Before Marshal Thule could speak, Chapter Master Calgar spoke first, his voice so cold it seemed to freeze the soul: "Marshal Thule. I have a situation to inform you of. Marshal Hekthom and his delegation, whom you dispatched, have been lawfully detained by our forces for attempting unauthorized and hostile actions within my vessel. They are currently safe but have temporarily lost their freedom."

He deliberately blurred the specifics of the "detention," but the implication was clear.

Immediately after, he delivered even more intimidating information: "At the same time, I must also inform you that, even as we speak, your expeditionary fleet is tactically encircled by my Ultramarines 9th Company and the main fleets of several successor Chapters. Any rash actions will be considered an invasion of the Ultramar Sector and will invite devastating retaliation."

His words struck like a heavy hammer, impacting Marshal Thule and the entire Black Templars fleet.

Finally, Chapter Master Calgar's tone rose to an unprecedented level, filled with the undeniable authority of a Chapter Master and cold killing intent, as he spoke each word:

"I, Marius Calgar, in the name of the Chapter Master of the Ultramarines Chapter, the Defender of Ultramar, and the King of Macragge, formally warn you, and through you, Grand Marshal Helbrecht—"

His gaze, like two sharp swords, pierced through the screen, directly at Marshal Thule:

"Immediately cease all unwarranted interference and provocative actions regarding the internal affairs of the Ultramarines! This is the first, and the last, warning!"

"Otherwise," Chapter Master Calgar's voice was like a cold wind from the abyss, carrying the resolve to crush all opposition, "the Ultramarines fear no enemy... within the Imperium!"

The communication was unilaterally cut by Chapter Master Calgar, leaving only endless threats and defiance echoing within the bridge of the 'Eternal Crusade.' Marshal Thule stood frozen, facing the static on the screen, feeling for the first time the undisguised wrath and iron will of the King of Macragge.

Chapter Master Calgar's murderous and resolute ultimatum, like cold steel needles, pierced through the void, deeply embedding itself in the hearts of every Black Templar crew member on the bridge of the 'Eternal Crusade.' After the communication was cut, Marshal Thule stood frozen in place, his helmeted face concealing his unconcealed shock and fury.

He indeed hadn't expected that Calgar would be so unyielding in protecting those two xenos, even going so far as to adopt a stance of being ready to fight! This had completely exceeded the scope of "internal affairs" and was almost an open confrontation!

However, reality quickly sobered him. Just as he was trying to analyze the situation and find a way to break the deadlock, piercing alarms blared continuously throughout the bridge!

"Marshal! Large-scale Warp jump signals detected! Right around our fleet!" The navigator's voice carried a hint of panic.

"It's the Ultramarines! The numbers... the numbers are too many!" The sensor operator's voice was filled with an incredible shock.

Marshal Thule abruptly looked up, gazing at the main observation window and the surrounding holographic star map. The previously empty Ultramar Sector border starfield was now like a boiling cauldron! Warp rifts, tearing through the void, suddenly bloomed, and from them, massive steel warships, painted deep blue and adorned with silver Aquilas, boldly emerged!

First was the 9th Company's Strike Cruiser, the "Eye of Ultramar," which appeared like a leading whale, its massive hull, still glowing with residual energy from the Warp jump, coldly spanning the path of the Black Templars' fleet. Following closely were the second, third... tenth... As far as the eye could see, the previously dark starry sky background was rapidly filled with a dense, steel jungle-like array of Ultramarines' Chapter fleet warships! They emerged from all directions, precisely occupying every tactical point, forming a perfect, despair-inducing encirclement! The muzzles of macro cannons and the emitters of lance weapons, without exception, glowed with charged, ethereal blue light, locking onto the Black Templars' expeditionary fleet at the center of the encirclement.

That colossal fleet silently spoke of the chilling absolute power the Ultramarines could muster within the Ultramar Sector!

Marshal Thule's face was extremely grim, his fists unconsciously clenching tightly. Though his expeditionary fleet was equally elite and vast, it was now deep in enemy territory, tactically surrounded by an overwhelmingly superior enemy fleet, losing all positional advantage. The initiative was completely in the hands of the other party.

"Marshal! All detected enemy warships have their weapon systems locked onto us! But... no further hostile actions or signs of firing have been detected yet!" A Tech-Priest officer reported, his voice trembling.

This meant the Ultramarines were fully prepared to open fire at any moment, merely awaiting the final command.

"Damn it!" Marshal Thule could no longer suppress the anger and frustration within him, his power armour-clad iron fist slamming heavily onto the control console in front of him with a dull thud, the sturdy alloy surface even slightly indenting. Calgar's intentions were laid bare on the table—those two Eldar, they would never be handed over! If the Black Templars insisted on taking them, then what they would take away would only be the devastating bombardment unleashed by the Ultramarines!

To ignite a full-scale civil war with one of the Imperium's most powerful Chapters for two xenos? This price, even for the Black Templars, known for their fanaticism and stubbornness, had to be weighed carefully. It would not only be the loss of a fleet but also the shaking of the Imperium's foundations, a huge setback for the Emperor's cause!

Just as Marshal Thule was locked in an internal struggle, weighing the cruel choice between faith and reality, a communication request from the "Eye of Ultramar" connected to the bridge of the "Eternal Crusader."

Marshal Thule took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his turbulent emotions, and accepted the communication.

On the screen appeared Captain Talos of the Ultramarines' 9th Company. His face was resolute, his eyes sharp, and his tone relatively calm, but the Ultramarines' steadfastness remained undiminished:

"Marshal Thule. I am ordered by Chapter Master Calgar to convey the final proposal to you," Captain Talos said directly. "Your fleet, please turn immediately and leave the Ultramar Sector. As long as you leave, we can pretend that everything today never happened. The Black Templars and the Ultramarines will still be loyal brother Chapters under the Emperor. The gates of Ultramar will, in the future, still be open to brother Chapters executing the Emperor's will."

These words were both an olive branch and a final warning. Leave, and all would be well; do not leave, and war would ignite.

Marshal Thule fell silent. His helmet-obscured gaze swept over the suffocating blue encirclement on the star map, then looked at his subordinates on the bridge, waiting for orders, their eyes a mix of fanaticism and a hint of unease. Though he was a religiously fanatical warrior, he was also a rational Marshal. He understood that resisting now would only lead to the loyal warriors of both sides shedding blood, making Chaos and xenos laugh, and serving no other purpose. The situation no longer allowed him to consider other options.

A tremendous sense of humiliation and the anger of his faith being thwarted burned within him, but he ultimately made the decision that best served realistic interests, and was also the most painful.

He took a deep breath, that breath seemingly tasting of blood, and through the loudspeaker, issued the command to the entire expeditionary fleet:

"All ships, heed my command! Immediately, the fleet will turn! Target... adjust to the Tau Empire border!"

He chose not to return but instead pointed the target towards another xenos empire, which was both an internal explanation and a helpless outlet.

After issuing the order, Marshal Thule's gaze once again fell upon Captain Talos on the communication screen. Just before severing the communication, he slowly said in a tone filled with sarcasm, disappointment, and cold resolve:

"Captain Talos... please tell Chapter Master Calgar. Today, the Emperor... will surely be 'immensely proud' of the Ultramarines' 'unity' and 'decisiveness.'"

He deliberately emphasized those words, the sarcasm within them self-evident.

"Today, you choose to collude with xenos and align yourselves with the Emperor's enemies... Such actions, we cannot condone." His voice suddenly rose, carrying the Black Templars' unique, uncompromising conviction, "But, please remember—the Sons of Dorn, descendants of the Imperium's bedrock, will absolutely not forget today's shame! Nor will they ever abandon their holy duty to purify the xenos!"

As his words fell, the communication was unilaterally and forcefully cut off by Marshal Thule.

The massive Black Templars' expeditionary fleet, under the cold gaze of countless Ultramarines' warships, like a wounded black behemoth, with a heart full of fury and humiliation, slowly began to turn, its engines spewing dazzling exhaust flames, gradually accelerating, and finally disappearing into the Warp's turbulence, heading towards the distant Tau Empire border.

Inside the bridge of the Macragge's Honour, there was silence. Calgar quietly listened to Captain Talos's relayed words from Marshal Thule, filled with final sarcasm and resolve.

When he heard "the Emperor will surely be proud of the Ultramarines" and "the Sons of Dorn will absolutely not," a strong, suffocating sensation, mixed with anger, helplessness, and a heavy sense of guilt, instantly seized Calgar's heart! His vision suddenly went dark, and his mountain-like stature swayed, almost losing his footing, fortunately clutching the armrest of his throne in time.

Although this crisis had been resolved by him in the most unyielding manner, without bloodshed, the relationship between the Ultramarines and the Black Templars, two of the Imperium's most important loyal Chapters, had developed an irreparable rift, and could even be said to have publicly deteriorated. This made him recall the millennia ago, the precursors to the ultimate tragic schism and conflict between the Thirteenth Legion, the Ultramarines, and the equally stubborn Seventeenth Legion, the Word Bearers.

Would history, then, repeat itself in another form?

He took a while to recover, forcibly suppressing that heavy suffocating feeling. He connected to internal communications, his voice carrying a subtle trace of weariness:

"Order Sicarius to lead the Second Company back to the Macragge's Honour."

"Inform Vitrius to release Marshal Hekthom and his subordinates, return their weapons and ships, and let them... go deal with the Imperium's true enemies."

He ultimately chose restraint, not pushing things to the extreme. Detaining a Chapter Marshal and many elite warriors would only deepen the hatred.

After confirming that the Black Templars' massive fleet had indeed moved away from the Ultramar Sector and was not a feint, Calgar slowly issued further instructions:

"Order all sub-Chapters to stand down from Condition Red, and return to their respective designated defense zones to continue patrol and garrison duties."

"The Ultramarines' main fleet, adjust course, and return to the Macragge system for rest and replenishment."

After a series of orders were issued, the tense atmosphere on the bridge finally eased slightly. But the anger in Calgar's heart did not subside; instead, it burned even fiercer. He sat alone on his throne, his gaze somberly fixed on the star map.

"If not for that damned Ordo Xenos... stirring up trouble and fanning the flames behind the scenes... would such a thing have happened?!" Calgar gnashed his teeth and growled in his heart, "Making loyal brothers almost come to blows! Risking the Imperium's division! These parasites hiding in the shadows!"

He would never tolerate the Inquisition extending its hand into the Ultramarines' internal affairs again, nor would he allow them to provoke similar crises again!

Without any hesitation, Calgar immediately connected to the encrypted communication channel with Holy Terra, the Lord Regent's palace. He needed to report this matter to Primarch Guilliman and seek the highest level of support to eliminate future troubles.

On Terra, deep within the Lord Regent's palace, Roboute Guilliman, after listening to Calgar's detailed and suppressed-anger-filled report, had a frosty veil descend upon his perfectly sculpted, classical face. He was equally enraged by the Inquisition's reckless and imprudent actions. The potential conflict between the Ultramarines and the Black Templars was one of the situations he least wanted to see.

Without excessive bureaucracy, Guilliman immediately made a decision. A top-secret order with the highest authority from the Lord Regent's palace was dispatched at maximum speed, traversing distant star sectors, directly reaching the Minotaurs Chapter's flagship, the "Hecaton Aiakos," which was currently engaged in a purge mission in a certain star sector.

The Minotaurs Chapter was known for its absolute the lion's due/loyalty (great sword) to Guilliman and the Council of Terra, and its ruthless efficiency in executing missions.

On the bridge, Chapter Master Asterion Moloc—a warrior renowned for his ruthlessness, efficiency, and unwavering loyalty—received and read this direct order from the Lord Regent. The order's content was concise and cold: [Immediately cease all current missions. The entire Chapter is to return to Holy Terra by the fastest possible means. Execute Operation 'Purge Corridor,' targeting—the Ordo Xenos headquarters and all major branch institutions, for thorough scrutiny and cleansing. Authorization: Use all necessary means.]

Asterion Moloc's bull-horned helmet-covered face showed no emotional fluctuations, only a cold glint flashing in his optical lenses. He did not hesitate for a moment, not even inquiring about any details, merely giving a deep-voiced command to the entire ship:

"All ships, heed my command! Abort current mission sequence! Set course, Holy Terra! Activate Warp engines, maximum jump speed! Repeat, target Terra, highest priority!"

The massive "Hecaton Aiakos" and its escort fleet immediately began to adjust their posture, the powerful Warp engines emitting a low roar, tearing through the fabric of real space, and plunging into the kaleidoscopic depths of the Warp, speeding towards Terra.

A bloody reckoning against the Ordo Xenos, originating from the highest echelons of the Imperium, had already begun. Guilliman intended to use the most direct and brutal methods to tell all forces attempting to challenge his authority and undermine the Imperium's stability—that the Ultramarines were not to be lightly offended; the Lord Regent's will was not to be defied!