Warhammer: Dawn of Annihilation

"They are moving quickly," Guilliman said as he straightened up.

"They were already en route to assist us. Your recovery led them to momentarily set aside their pursuit of chaos and redirect their efforts towards Macragge," Sicarius' voice resonated through the communicator.

"They said they could wait, but I thought it was best to inform you," he added.

"In a world where so much requires urgent attention, welcoming a group of loyal warriors is a matter that demands precedence. Let them come, I will be here in the reception hall to meet them," Guilliman replied.

"As you wish, my lord," came Sicarius' response.

The communicator emitted a sharp buzz, and the transmission ended. The room fell into silence once more as the meditators continued their work.

Guilliman sat back in his chair, contemplating the future.

New technologies had been entrusted to Kaul, and the Reform Council was prepared. The next task was to eliminate the chaos forces in Ultramar and gradually advance his own plans.

When the time was right, he would go to Terra, seize control from the corrupt high lords, and continue his work.

The opening of the great rift had empowered the evil gods but also offered the Emperor a chance to recover. Guilliman needed to strengthen himself before the Emperor's full return to power, as he feared that the Emperor might turn against him once restored.

A thousand years of faith could not guarantee that the Emperor would remain the same man.

The Emperor's return was not necessarily a welcome development.

The grand hallways of Hera Fortress were bustling as over fifty representatives from the battle groups arrived, guided by two Ultramarines.

The corridor was decorated with intricate gold and silver carvings, and marble columns supported a grand flying porch. The floor was tiled in black and white squares.

"This situation is hard to believe," commented a representative, holding a scepter adorned with a golden skull and bone ring, crackling with psychic energy.

The Librarian of the chapter, a Think Tank warrior, known for his psychic abilities, observed.

"Nothing is impossible, all things are the will of the Emperor," responded another Ultramarine, his black and white armor marking his rank.

The scarred veteran spoke with authority, his golden double-headed eagle symbol indicating his high status.

"Let's avoid discussing such matters here. We are in Macragge now, let's not speak of a Primarch so casually," said Verano, who led the group.

The others fell silent as they passed banners of cobalt blue with silver threads outlining the Ultramar symbol.

The Iron Guard Terminators stood like statues, fierce armor gleaming and power weapons at the ready. Their presence ensured the entire area was under strict martial law.

Verano had seen these Terminators in action during past campaigns led by Calgar, witnessing them form the ceremonial guard for the Empire's legends.

The doors ahead opened with a sharp hiss, revealing more honor guards. Their battle-hardened faces gave the atmosphere a serious weight.

As they walked forward, an Ultramarine captain approached them.

"Welcome to Macragge."

"Sicarius, it's good to see you again," Verano saluted.

"It's been twenty years, Verano," Sicarius responded. "If you want to catch up, do so after meeting my master. He's expecting you."

He gestured for them to follow him.

The group continued through the halls until they reached the final door. The guards at attention thudded their feet in synchronization.

The doors creaked open, revealing a grand marble hall, inlaid with intricate patterns of the Imperial Sky Eagle. The room felt alive with the weight of history.

Inside, seated on a solid gold throne surrounded by gilded ornaments, was the living legend — a giant in blue and gold armor, his face dignified and regal.

Verano had thought he was prepared, but seeing the Primarch face-to-face left him overcome with emotion, tears flowing.

He had met Guilliman once before, during a Tyranid incursion. Macragge had been under threat, and their chapter had come to its aid. It was then he had witnessed the Primarch, encased in a stasis field, preserved for millennia.

Now, that field was gone, and Guilliman stood alive before them, exuding strength and wisdom.

Without thinking, Verano and the others dropped to one knee.

"You truly have returned, my lord," Verano said, his voice trembling not with fear, but with excitement.

The room was thick with awe; a living myth had returned to the world.

Guilliman scanned the room, descending the steps from his throne.

"Rise, all of you. You have fought for the Empire, and you are its heroes," he said as he moved toward Verano, helping him to his feet.

"What is your name?" Guilliman asked.

"Verano, Captain of the Silent Company, Raven Guard," came the reply.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Captain," Guilliman said warmly.

"It's an honor to meet you, my lord," Verano responded.

"I'm glad you feel that way," Guilliman joked. "I was worried you might deny me, and that would've given me quite a headache."

"There's no such possibility, we'll fight for your will," Verano affirmed.

"Haha," Guilliman chuckled, giving Verano a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Soon, we'll see if that holds true. I hope I won't be disappointed."

Guilliman greeted each of the representatives in turn, engaging in lighthearted conversation and praising their contributions to the Empire. He hoped to foster camaraderie and a relaxed atmosphere.

Once the introductions were complete, Guilliman became more serious.

"I know you've come from far and wide, and I should let you rest. But the situation is dire. Chaos and aliens are pressing on us, and I can't afford to waste any time. I need to stabilize the situation here in Ultramar and move to the next phase. The fleets and armies are gathering. I must ask if you will fulfill your oaths and join my cause."

Guilliman looked around, waiting for the battle groups' response.

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