"This battleship is really huge. It feels like it's almost as big as the smaller Queen of Glory. And its appearance is really weird..." Togarton said as he sat in the Stormbird and looked at the huge battleship outside the porthole.
"It is said that this is a relic battleship that was already serving the Imperium when the Emperor left Terra, but I can't find much information about it. In short, everything about it has been covered up, and even the records in the Mechanicus are very few." said Cyjanus.
"Could the person piloting this mysterious warship also be someone full of secrets?" Garo asked. "Powerful psychic powers, a mysterious warship, and a Sixth Legion with a significantly altered organizational structure… ..." Garo's mind was filled with some unpleasant thoughts.
"Don't you think the appearance of this battleship is very elegant? Look at its shiny and round hull. It doesn't have the abrupt structures and turrets covered all over like other imperial battleships. It really looks like a fine work of art." Akurduna was also observing the Endless Journey in the distance, but his eyes were full of admiration and excitement.
"Elegant? I feel it lacks a sense of heaviness and strength. Its lines are a bit slender, giving people the feeling that it becomes shorter when folded. I still prefer the clustered turrets and heavy armor of the Queen of Glory-class battleships." said Garo.
"Did you see the figure next to that battleship? If I'm not mistaken, that should be an Ark of the Mechanicus? It's really rare. Normally, the Mechanicus' fleet, especially battleships of the Ark level, will form their own system, rather than standing next to the Legion's main battleship like attendants." Torgaddon suddenly said.
"Perhaps, it is to pay tribute to this elegant ancient ship." Akurduna said.
"Everyone, get ready! We're heading aboard," Sejanus reminded after a moment. He straightened himself, maintaining a more refined appearance, while suppressing his uneasiness. This was his first mission of this kind, a clandestine contest with a fellow legionnaire. The Supreme Lord commander must have understood his purpose. What would his response be? A tit-for-tat response? A show of weakness? Or even anger?
When the Stormbird of the Luna Wolves landed, as the hatch opened, four elite commanders of the legion appeared in front of Balder. As he watched these people step out of the hatch, a smile appeared on the corner of Balder's mouth.
Sejanus walked in front, his expression both dignified and kind. He glanced at Balder, trying to understand him through observation. While Sejanus wanted to demonstrate his Primarch's attitude, he also tried to create a positive atmosphere for the meeting. After all, Sejanus wanted to make friends. Prompting and reminding was Horus's mission.
Behind him, Torgaddon wore a serious expression. The Luna Wolves' guards followed closely behind him. He observed everything around him with a scrutinizing gaze, as if trying to discern the differences between this Legion and the Sixth Legion he had previously encountered. He faithfully fulfilled his mission and duties as deputy to the delegation, demonstrating the strength and eliteness of his own Legion.
Behind him stood Garro, the Captain of the Dusk Raiders. His expression was stern, his gaze filled with wariness and suspicion. Especially when he looked at the Rune Priest of the Space Wolves, a hint of distrust lingered. Then his gaze swept over the interior of the Endless Journey, which was completely different from that of an ordinary Imperial warship. His distrust intensified. However, from the way he kept staring at the Iron Wolf mechs beside him, you could tell he truly liked them!
Akurduna, on the other hand, was the most relaxed and lively of the four. He moved gracefully through the passage, like a noble at a grand banquet. His power armor and embellishments were the most impressive of the group, undoubtedly attracting many attention. He observed everything with great interest: the warship, the welcoming guests, and Balder himself. His eyes lit up when he saw Balder, and he seemed eager to make a move. And Balder knew this guy was interested in a duel with him!
During the meeting, Balder adjusted himself, his aura less domineering and more approachable, and his expression changed with each person, making people feel somewhat comfortable. The Emperor is seen by different people, and everyone has their own Emperor in their hearts. While Balder's level was a little lower, it was enough to ensure that the first stage of the exchange between the two sides began in a relatively friendly atmosphere.
And at this time, what was Balder like in Sejanus's eyes?
"A dragon among men! The Primarch of the Sixth Legion values him for a reason." This was Sejanus's first impression of Balder. Balder, clad in his oversized power armor, was even larger than Dukain, who sat next to him in his custom-made Terminator armor. He had the commanding presence, but without the oppressive presence he felt when meeting the Primarch.
Balder wore no helmet, his expression also filled with scrutiny and goodwill toward the Luna Wolves. Both sides seemed to understand each other's intentions, but it was clear to Sejanus that both sides were striving to create a more friendly environment for communication, which greatly increased Sejanus's favorability.
"He is a wise and rational man. His face is majestic, and his eyes exude wisdom and vicissitudes. His eyes are like a blue ocean, seeming to attract people to explore. Compared with those other high-level officials, Balder gives me a very good impression." Sejanus observed the other party carefully.
After all, Sejanus was just an employee, and he had to follow his boss's orders. And what was the core of Horus's orders? Communication, not just command! If the two sides really started to get on the offensive, Sejanus's mission would be a failure. He wouldn't be able to explain himself when he returned.
"Welcome colleagues from the Luna Wolves Legion to come here and provide assistance for our operations." After a brief eye contact between the two sides, Balder walked down the steps and took the initiative to walk towards Sejanus.
The letter from the Luna Wolves clearly stated that the Legion's second-in-command, Sejanus, had brought a troop to visit and assist the allies. Sejanus's role was dual: one as envoy, the other as commander of the reinforcements. Therefore, Balder was correct.
"Thank you for your welcome, Supreme Lord Commander of the Space Wolves." Sejanus looked at the tall, powerful figure before him and subconsciously chose a respectful word. "May our exchange build a bridge of friendship between our two Legions, and may our sharp blades expand the territory of the Imperium of Man."
"Does your fleet need to rest after a long journey? If so, I can make arrangements," said Balder.
"No, thank you for your kindness. Before arriving, we have considered various problems that may be faced, so we brought enough supplies. During the voyage, all personnel maintained the best condition and were ready to fight at any time." Saijanus said.
Chapter 129 Communication between Legions 1
"Very good. In that case, can we first discuss the war plan for the Belos 5 system?" Balder said.
"So direct?" Sejanus was surprised. He had imagined all sorts of possible meetings, but the only thing he hadn't expected was that he'd be preparing to work for the Sixth Legion right after arriving. According to the rules, weren't there supposed to be a round of courtesy talks between the top brass of both sides first, followed by some exchanges between officers and soldiers?
"Can we talk in private, my friend?" At this moment, Balder's voice sounded in Sejanus' mind.
"A private conversation?" Sejanus looked at Balder, his eyes filled with suspicion, but he nodded slightly. Balder smiled back. He turned and looked at the person behind Sejanus.
"Captain Torgardon, I heard of your name from Lord Dukain. Your generosity, humor and outstanding abilities are widely known among the legions. Lord Dukain and you are old friends. You should take advantage of this rare opportunity to communicate with each other." Balder said with a smile.
"Uh..." Torgadon watched Balder's actions, and a rather absurd term popped up in his mind: divide and surround! That's right, divide and surround. Balder turned the original gathering into a separate meeting, and Dukain seemed to be very cooperative with Balder's actions.
"Come on, Togarton, my old friend, let's sit down and talk first. Whether it's about war or leisure life." Du Kain stepped forward and extended an invitation to Togarton. With Du Kain's reputation and identity as a former legion commander, Togarton could not refuse.
"Captain Garo, long time no see. I'm Fricks, and we've worked together before." Fricks also walked up and said to Garo.
"I remember now. We once recaptured a Forge World together," Garro said, smiling as he stepped forward. Now only Akurduna remained. And Balder naturally wouldn't forget him.
"The Swordmaster of the Third Legion," Balder said with a smile. "You can take a good tour of the Endless Journey with my second-in-command. If you'd like to spar, I'm sure there will be willing personnel from the Space Wolves, Iron Hands, Fourth Legion, or Warhounds. What do you think?"
"As you wish, respected Supreme Lord Commander, it is my honor to converse with the champions of our friendly forces," Akurduna saluted and spoke eagerly. And so, in just a few minutes, Balder had torn the Luna Wolves' delegation apart...
----------
"You're truly amazing," Sejanus said meaningfully after arriving with Balder in a cabin aboard the Endless Journey. He felt very mixed emotions, as Balder's response clearly exceeded his expectations.
"You're too kind. It's just some small tricks." Balder poured a cup of crystal tea for Sejanus. "Try this specialty from the Sixth Legion. It will make you feel better."
"There are only two of us here, we can talk it out." Balder sat down opposite Sejanus.
"Is it so straightforward?" Sejanus thought to himself. He didn't say anything, but just picked up the teacup and took a sip.
"Before you arrived, I contacted Rus," Balder said. "My ally said he and Lord Horus communicated very well. Rus made his position clear, and Lord Horus expressed his goodwill. I feel the two Primarchs made it very clear in their exchange, didn't they?"
"The communication between the two sides is indeed very good, so we came here with good intentions." Sejanus said after a moment of hesitation.
"I believe that Your Excellency comes here with good intentions." Balder nodded.
"Are you Lord Rus's ally before he rose to prominence?" Sejanus was now deeply troubled. It was clear that Balder had understood his purpose and wanted to go straight to the point.
"Yes."
"But Lord Russ is the Emperor's descendant. He has his own blood brothers. They are the most powerful and noble in the Empire. Do you understand what I mean?" Sejanus gritted his teeth and spoke in the gentlest tone possible.
"I understand. Is that the only reason?" Balder asked.
"I think you've overstepped your bounds. Please forgive me if I've offended you," said Sejanus.
"Russ and I became brothers because we earned his respect through our abilities and knowledge, and because we share common pursuits and similar personalities and temperaments. We treat each other as equals and make up for each other's shortcomings. We help and learn from each other, and then make progress together. So we are brothers," Bader said.
"Ability?" There was a strange emotion in Sejanus's words.
"Of course it's my ability. I'm quite confident in my abilities. Of course, you don't understand me yet, but you will soon." Bader said.
"Because of psychic powers?" asked Sejanus.
"As for psychic power and knowledge, how should I put it? Whether it's Russ or Lord Ferrus of the Iron Hands, they all recognize my abilities. How about you take a look first?" Balder said with a smile.
"I think I am no worse than you in command and tactics. Even Your Excellency Dukain may not be able to do better than me. He is good at frontal assaults, while I am good at airborne decapitation operations and mobile warfare. I believe in my experience and ability." Sejanus said firmly.
"Let's wait and see?" Balder said with a hint of joking in his tone.
亱"In the field of war, I will not lose to you, Your Excellency." Sejanus was full of fighting spirit.
The first round of fighting had concluded, and both sides had reached a tacit understanding. Sejanus had failed to persuade Balder to abandon his status as a Primarch's brother, and Balder had naturally failed to overpower Sejanus. The two sides agreed to test each other's abilities on the battlefield, and to determine whether Balder was worthy of the honor of being a Primarch's brother.
This was exactly what Sejanus had hoped for. After all, his original plan was to demonstrate the Luna Wolves' superiority and force them to retreat. This played into his hands. And what about Balder? He saw the difficulty of this war as nothing more than a game. Everyone felt they had gotten a huge payout!
Therefore, after some things were brought to light, they actually relaxed. Competition between legions was normal, and there were also cases of escalating conflicts due to dissatisfaction. From single duels, to battles for merit and glory, and even to competitions on the training ground, there were countless such incidents.
Now, both sides had chosen a mutually acceptable and fair format for the contest. After all, if it came down to military prowess, Balder was undoubtedly inferior to Sejanus. And in a one-on-one duel, Sejanus knew he wasn't up to the task. Aside from Akurduna, who still harbored a desire for a rivalry, the other three had a sense of their own after meeting. It was a feeling, an intuition cultivated through prolonged battle.
Afterwards, the two sides had a pleasant conversation, discussing the management and tactics of the Legion. Balder asked Sejanus about the tactics and formation principles that the Luna Wolves excelled in, while Sejanus tried to discuss psychic powers and armaments with Balder.
Both sides benefited greatly. The Luna Wolves' tactics and command were commendable, while Balder's internal management and harmonious relationships were worth learning from. Although Balder was doing his best to make up for it, his relationship with the ordinary Space Wolves was still not particularly good. As a leader of the Legion, Sejanus handled these matters with ease.
Sejanus also gained a lot. He was an excellent general, leader, and advisor to the Primarch. However, he was not a psyker. He knew psykers were terrifying, but he did not know the principles and risks behind them. Balder could help him answer these questions.
"Serjanus, you are a very humble and noble commander. You treat other ordinary humans equally and do not look down on them because of your own strength and excellence. This is commendable." During the conversation, Balder was still very satisfied with Sejanus.
"We are just lucky to have inherited some power from the Emperor and the Primarch. In essence, we and others are fighting for humanity and the Emperor. We are comrades-in-arms. We just have different missions. There is no distinction between high and low." Sejanus smiled and said to Balder.
"You are outstanding. When I met you, I was surprised because I couldn't understand how you could be so powerful without receiving gene seeds and transformation. You are a psyker and it is said that you have the ability to destroy a team of Space Marines with a wave of your hand, but you are inherently cautious about psykers. You are completely different from those crazy or arrogant guys I have met. You are very friendly and have great respect for technology and rationality. And you were born in a wild planet, which is really rare." Sejanus also had a high opinion of Balder.
The exchange between the two sides was quite harmonious, with a sense of amicability, not confrontation. Balder felt that Sejanus was worthy of a close friendship. Sejanus, on the other hand, felt that his Primarch held some prejudice against Balder. After all, Russ made the decisions within the Legion. Wasn't his own father's meddling a bit too much?
If the private communication between the two can be said to be very pleasant, then the conversation between Dukain and Torgaddon is not the same. As high-ranking officials of the legion, both of them are knowledgeable people. Dukain knows Horus's thoughts, and Torgaddon also knows Dukain and the ambitions of the current Iron Hands Legion.
"How have you been recently, Lord Dukain?" Torgathon greeted first.
"Very good, our Primarch has returned. His ability and vision are admirable. He has given us a new direction to strive for, and we are moving forward on a more perfect and powerful path. We will clear all enemies for humanity and the Empire. We will become a role model for all legions." Ducain spoke.
"So, we're competitors," Torgaddon hesitated before speaking. It was clear Dukain had made his stance clear, and as a high-ranking Luna Wolves leader, Torgaddon couldn't afford to back down. He saw this as a challenge from Dukain to the Luna Wolves.
"We are the defenders of humanity, the sword and shield in the hands of the Emperor. We strive for excellence. I did this before, and we will do better after our Primarch returns," said Ducain.
"Then let's wait and see." Torgardon changed the subject and said, "Lord Dukain, although you were sharp before, you were not aggressive. Can you tell me why?"
Togaton knew Du Kain's character. He was a strong man, but not unreasonable. But now, after the two sides met, Du Kain became aggressive in just a few words. This was abnormal!
"My friend, you are doing something not very glorious." Du Kain sighed and said. He knew that Togaton was a very good person and he should not appear in this delegation at this time.
"The Primarch is just a little curious about Lord Balder." Torgarton hesitated for a long time before blurting out these few words.
"Hehe." Dukain took the teapot and poured a cup of tea for himself and Torgadon. "My father also believes that Lord Balder is someone who deserves to be treated as an equal."
"The Emperor created 20 legions, each with its own Primarch. My father can understand the ideas of the Wolf King and Lord Ferrus, but there will eventually be other Primarchs who will not accept it. My father believes that it is unnecessary to make other Primarch brothers dissatisfied because of this matter." Torgaddon was looking for reasons for Horus's behavior.
Everyone was an old fox, and they all knew the reason behind this meeting, so in private, neither of them had any intention of hiding their thoughts. Although their words were full of restraint, the translation of their diplomatic rhetoric was exactly this meaning.
Ducain believed Horus was meddling too much, and that it was wrong for him to meddle in the affairs of other Legions without authorization. Ducain certainly couldn't admit it, even though he knew the Warriors' Order was already showing some signs of that. So he could only say his father was doing it to avoid future trouble.
"I've spoken with Lord Russ. He's a very simple man. He only cares about his own mission and legion. He doesn't want to get involved in the messy affairs within the empire. And within a legion, someone must be responsible for these matters, so Lord Balder took on some responsibilities, such as liaising with other legions."
"In fact, I feel that if the Luna Wolves want to prove themselves, they should focus on other areas," Du Kain said.
"Other directions?" Torgadon stroked his chin. "You mean the First Legion?"
Chapter 130 Communication between Legions 2
"If the Iron Hands are stronger than the Luna Wolves in frontal combat, and the Luna Wolves have advantages in decapitation and mobile warfare, then the First Legion is stronger than us in every aspect. What's more terrifying is that we don't know how much stronger they are than us! If there is a test paper, we can get 90 points and the First Legion can get 100 points. Our ability can only reach the level of 90 points, while the First Legion is because the test paper only has 100 points. Do you understand what I mean?" Du Kain looked at Torgaddon and said.
Ferrus aimed to establish his Legion as the foremost of the Legions! Ducain, on the other hand, believed that the superior Tenth Legion had the obligation and capacity to "teach" the others. In this respect, Ferrus and Horus were similar, though Ferrus fostered healthy competition to foster mutual learning and improvement. Meanwhile, Horus, this time, had disgracefully resorted to underhanded tactics, which displeased Ducain.
Of course, due to the Primarchs' pride and the good relationship between Dukain and Torgaddon, some things couldn't be said directly. So, Dukain decided to steer the conversation to another Legion, hinting to Torgaddon to go back and persuade Horus to stop bothering Balder. After all, Dukain felt that Balder had been put in an awkward position by the Iron Hands' request for assistance, and he felt somewhat sorry for his friend.
"Is that really that exaggerated?" Torgadon's face changed, a look of disbelief filling his face. Torgadon knew the First Legion was powerful, but he had always believed it was simply formed a little too early and had more experience. It was the kind of thing where, "I know you're strong, but if I work hard, I can catch up."
"I've heard some rumors, but I didn't believe them at first. But then I met Lord Balder and saw many ways of fighting that we had never seen in the past decades of fighting. I realized that what we have mastered is only a small part of the art of war. We are so lacking in imagination."
"Have you seen some of the secrets of the First Legion?" asked Torgaddon.
"No, I haven't seen it, but I have seen the miracles created by a wise man. This miracle is not just psychic power, but also knowledge, talent and experience. I once asked if there was anyone else in the legion who could do it. And Lord Balder's answer to me was that the First Legion could. The First Legion participated in the reorganization of the Sixth Legion, and Lord Balder had some contact with the First Legion. And I believe what he said." Du Kain said.
"I have reservations about this." Torgardon expressed doubts about what Dukain said. He still believed that seeing is believing.
"You'll see it soon," Dukain said indifferently. "Alright, let me say one last thing to end this unpleasant matter today. Regardless of what Lord Horus thinks, the Tenth Legion will always consider Lord Balder a friend. My father treated him as an equal. And Lord Balder deserves our respect, for he is truly exceptional! That's all." Dukain remained a true friend. Even with Horus's rebuke, he clearly sided with Balder.
"I hope Lord Balder can be as good as you say. I also want to broaden my horizons." Togarton snorted. As one of the best business backbones of the legion, Togarton is also very confident in his own level.
"Okay, let's talk about some happy topics." Du Kain said.
"As you wish."
------------
While Torgardon and Dukain were fighting, in another room on the Endless Journey, Garo and Felix were getting along very harmoniously.
"Felix, you are in much better condition than the last time we met. You are full of energy and vitality. Although it is not a good way to describe an old soldier, I feel that you are really different." said Gallo.
"I've had a really good time recently. No, not just me, but my brothers as well. Our hard work has paid off, and we've gained our own glory. The Imperial Chroniclers have described every battle we've participated in with images and writings, telling the people of the Empire about our hard work and dedication. We've realized our own value."
"Lord Balder is a very good leader. He is fair and just. He cares about our situation and the problems we are worried about, and at the same time he provides solutions. He has taught us to care about the Mortal Legion. We are no longer the corpse crushers and cold-blooded steel in the eyes of others. In fact, after spending a long time with those Mortal Legions, you will find that many of them are very good. What they lack may be just an implantation operation." Flix enthusiastically told Garo about his wonderful life now - happily fighting aliens!
"That's great, congratulations, my friend. I'm really happy to see your current state." Jialuo said sincerely.
"I see suspicion and worry in your eyes," Felix continued. "I know what you're worried about, but I can tell you clearly that you're worrying too much. The Emperor and the Sigillite know about your concerns. He's even the Sigillite's disciple, so he's absolutely reliable."
"Although I am also opposed to psychic power, after all, it cannot be explained by common sense and science. We believe that this power is unsafe. But the definition of right and wrong should not be determined by us, after all, we do not understand psychic power."
"So, you leave the decision to the Emperor and the Sigillite?" Garo said.
"Do you have a better solution?" Felix asked. "Psychic power is dangerous, but it's also necessary. We must approach it with caution and maintain a safe distance."
"I admit that what you said makes sense," Jia Luo said after thinking for a few minutes. He decided to give up this question that he couldn't figure out for the time being.
"Actually, I feel the current atmosphere is very good. Officers and soldiers from different legions are working together and cooperating with each other to win the victory with higher efficiency and lower losses." Flix sighed.
"Different legions cooperate with each other?" Garo was slightly startled after hearing this. As Dusk Raiders, they excel at heavy infantry assaults and bloody wars of attrition, crushing their opponents with their tenacious spirit and stubborn style. They are used to advancing step by step in the hail of bullets until they completely crush the opponent.
"Each legion has its own areas of expertise, just like we are good at sieges and armored assaults. You are elite heavy infantry and the backbone of maintaining the front line. Lord Horus once commanded multiple legions at the same time, and the 19th Legion has always followed him. And now Lord Balder seems to want to imitate all of this." Felix said.
"So what do you think the Space Wolves are good at now?" asked Garro.
"This question is a bit awkward. If we talk about the average level, in terms of firepower and attack strength, they are not as good as our Fourth Legion. If we talk about the elite level of infantry, they are definitely not as good as you. They seem to be able to do everything, but they are not proficient in anything." Felix touched his head and said. To be honest, from a tactical point of view, he really felt that the Space Wolves Legion was average.
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