Emperor's Bane

Chapter 966 We need to speed things up!
[Corax?]

【Corax!】

[Corax! Wake up!]

"……Um?"

"Ok!"

Redemption Star and Lord of the Raven Guardians thought he was probably a little sleepy.

Did he just hear Morgan's voice?
Morgan...

Morgan?!
His eyelids, which were about to close, opened wide instantly because of this special keyword, but the deep-rooted drowsiness still hadn't disappeared from his mind: Corax tried hard to overcome his physiological instincts, even though his brain and body were screaming at him to rest.

Kolac opened his eyes with great difficulty: By the Emperor, they were now heavier than the glaciers of Fenris. The Primarch's not-yet-fully-awakened mental power was no match for his exhausted body. He could only look around in vain to determine whether the voice he had just heard was an illusion.

If it's just an illusion...

He should probably take a nap first.

The thought flashed through his mind, because just as the Crow King propped himself up and looked up, he saw that the silver shadow was floating right in front of his bed.

Whether it was his striking resemblance to his foster sister Averynia, or those distinctive blue-green eyes unique among the Primarchs, everything clearly indicated the identity of the person before him. Of course, what truly made Korax make his judgment was a small detail.

Despite his blurred consciousness, the Lord of the Raven Guard still accurately perceived that when he barely opened his eyes, the fluorescent light in front of him, which was originally as bright as day, immediately subdued most of its light and greeted Corax in a gentler manner, making the Raven King, who had just opened his eyes, feel more comfortable.

This kind of delicate, considerate mindset is something few in the Primarch could achieve.

but……

Why is she making such a stern face?
He seemed to be in a particularly bad mood: or perhaps particularly heavy-hearted?
"Is that you, Morgan?"

The Crow King rubbed his temples: the pain of lack of sleep was still troubling him.

Yes, it's Corax.

The figure in the ball of light nodded, then raised its arm toward the Raven King. With a warm glow, Corax felt a little better.

Although his head still hurt.

Moreover, he was not very clear-headed.

"Um...please wait a moment."

The crow king turned over, squinted, and rummaged through his bedside table.

He quickly pulled out a bottle of viscous, dark green liquid, opened it, and a foul stench made Corax frown, but he still chose to drink all the liquid in the bottle in one gulp.

With a few labored coughs, Corax's mental state improved considerably; at least he didn't look so tired anymore, and his long, melancholy pupils regained their ability to think: the Raven King looked at the packaging on the bottle with a bitter expression.

There were originally some words like "Macurag" on it, but they have been crossed out and replaced with an extremely rough drawing of a midnight ghost's grinning face.

Koraks chuckled, then carefully placed the empty bottle back into the box. Despite the extremely dim lighting in the room, it was still clear that there were at least dozens of identical bottles in the box.

“You know what, I sometimes really admire Conrad.”

Korax wiped the liquid from the corner of his mouth, the unbearable bitterness making him frown.

"He actually managed to transform the poison that Guilliman used to stay awake into something that was at least safe to drink: it would have been even better if he could have changed the taste."

I believe he can do it.

When she mentioned her "son," the Spider Queen's voice became noticeably gentler.

"I believe too."

Corax nodded.

"But I also believe that he deliberately kept the awful taste: otherwise he wouldn't have sent it to me."

I think so too.

Morgan nodded in agreement.

Her expression softened slightly, and the anecdotes between the brothers effectively diluted the cruelty brought about by the war.

Corax had already stood up, and after stretching his limbs, the Crow King dragged over a chair and sat down.

"So, is there something urgent, Morgan?"

"In my memory, you are not the kind of person who would visit late at night for no reason."

[Actually, it's noon now, Corax.]

The Spider Queen smiled and corrected her.

If your room has a window, you can see the sun on Redemption.

"Sorry, my bad."

The crow king glanced at the clock, then tapped his cheek in annoyance.

"My lifestyle has been irregular lately."

"You know, the Milky Way isn't very peaceful right now."

"After Horus raised his army, I never dared to really rest, for fear of missing out on firsthand information."

So you haven't slept in a long time?

"Not really."

The Crow King shook his head.

“I usually work until I lose consciousness, and then my offspring carry me to the break room, just like you see.”

As he said this, Corax shifted his position in the chair, making a slight rubbing sound. Almost simultaneously, at least four Raven Guards lowered their footsteps outside the door.

"My lord, are you awake?"

"I'm fine: I just got up and walked around."

"That's it..."

"Please rest a little longer. There is no urgent military information coming in yet."

"And you've only rested for less than half an hour."

"I know."

Corax nodded, readily agreeing: then immediately activated the silencing field in the room.

When the Crow King turned around again, he found that Morgan, who had been floating in mid-air, had dragged another chair to sit down directly opposite him.

God knows how a pure psionic illusion could drag that stone chair that weighs several hundred pounds.

Corax couldn't understand it.

Just like him, he couldn't understand the current situation in the galaxy.

"So, is there something you need, Morgan?"

Answer one of my questions first.

The Spider Queen stared directly at her brother.

[Is there any key information about the Milky Way recently?]

“Where do I begin?”

[From the defeat of Lemanrus.]

"Ah... that's nothing."

Corax thought for a moment, then shook his head.

"In fact, the defeat of the Space Wolves Legion was only a short time ago."

"It's been less than a month."

【Then what? 】

What did the Warmaster do after defeating Russ?

"Continue the advance."

The Crow King's mind was now completely clear.

At the same time, he also keenly noticed the difference in how the Spider Queen referred to the two sides in the war.

【War Commander】is certainly a respectful title.

But Ruth will definitely seem more intimate.

Consequently, Corax's subsequent account began to become somewhat biased.

"After defeating Russ, the Warmaster's forces rested in place for less than three days before continuing their advance: they easily broke through the outer defenses of the Imperial Fist deployed in the northern part of the Sun Starfield, and have now penetrated into the middle section between Holy Terra and Betangamon. The Imperial army seems to be completely powerless to resist."

"The War Marshal's forces have already occupied several star sectors in the Solar System: and many governors have decided to side with him."

"It is said that he exempted all the high taxes in the Imperial worlds he conquered and treated the unfortunate Imperial Fists and auxiliary troops as kindly as possible. Dorn lost hundreds of soldiers at the northern frontier: in other words, his investment there was surprisingly weak."

"Therefore, even if the defense line is breached, the main force of the Imperial Fist is not affected."

"They even briefly repelled the Shadowmoon Wolves elite led by Abaddon in the ensuing defensive battle."

"This is the latest news that came in two days ago."

"As for what the Warmaster will do next, it is still unknown, but his allies' siege of Betangamon is indeed not going well: it is said that the White Scar and the Sons of the Emperor's legions are poorly coordinated, and they have not been able to reach Betangamon's main star yet, and have even suffered considerable setbacks in the fleet battle."

Please elaborate.

"Is such that."

Corax cleared his throat.

"Lemanlus and his defeated army successfully arrived before the two rebel armies besieged Betangamon. Chagatai Khan was therefore on high alert, believing that Lemanlus's wolf pack would greatly increase the strength of the defenders, and therefore felt that they should make full preparations before launching an attack. However, Fugrim felt that Chagatai Khan's plan was too slow and would give Lemanlus more time to react."

"Moreover, he believed that the defeat of the Space Wolves would disrupt the morale of the defenders, making it the perfect time to attack."

"So, after defeating the defenders on the outer perimeter of the Betangamon space, the Emperor's Son attempted to take the defeated army and attack the heart of Betangamon's defenses. However, they were immediately ambushed by Ruth and his wolf pack, losing at least several thousand men in the battle. Even their second ship, the Glory Queen Sun King, was almost captured: Ruth managed to board the ship at one point, but the timely reinforcements from the White Scar Legion forced him to retreat."

"It is precisely because of this setback that the two rebel legions have so far failed to penetrate the core area of ​​Betangamon."

"But the conflicts between them are getting bigger and bigger."

I feel sorry for Fulgrim.

Morgan shook his head helplessly.

He had previously realized that Ruth was not an illiterate barbarian; but he seemed to have forgotten.

"how do I say this."

The Emperor's Sons' main force in the Great Crusade belonged to the Twenty-Eighth Expeditionary Fleet, a designation suggested by Lemanrus: in mathematics, twenty-eight is considered the second perfect number after six, and Phoenix gladly accepted this offer.

Unfortunately, he didn't remember it until now.

"I think it's because his personality has changed a lot."

"Moreover: a person who can abandon his own hometown will indeed be looked down upon."

Corax nodded.

"After that defeat, Forgrim clearly lost interest in continuing to command operations, especially after the offensive against Betangamon turned into a long siege. He rarely appeared at the front or in the command post, leaving the legions to his lords and commanders; he himself indulged in music and poetry."

[Music? Poetry?]

"It is said that he was inspired by witnessing the epic tragedy of brothers killing each other on the battlefield."

"And Chagatai Khan was furious about this."

"But I heard that Phoenix didn't care about this at all. He would even send someone to deliver each poem or piece of music to the Khan for his appreciation after he finished writing it."

So, their relationship is bad?

"The two legions are now encamped separately: the distance between them is so great that they cannot even provide timely reinforcements to each other."

[Great, it seems we don't need to worry about the Betangamon issue for at least a short time.]

"us?"

Corax keenly caught the word.

He looked at Morgan thoughtfully, while the Spider Queen responded with a smile.

That's right: it's us.

"...Morgan."

The Crow King pondered for a moment, then nodded.

"I heard that shortly after the rebellion broke out, you led the main force of the Dawnbreaker Legion on an expedition."

"The same goes for Conrad."

"While Guilliman did not go on any expeditions, he was clearly unwilling to do anything more."

"So... what are you hiding from us?"

In front of Morgan, whom he had always trusted, Corax had no intention of continuing to beat around the bush.

We are participating in something more important.

The Spider Queen responded with a smile.

[Except for Guilliman, of course.]

He truly knows nothing.

"That's it..."

Corax blinked.

"let me guess."

"This important matter: was orchestrated by the Emperor?"

【how do you know? 】

“I understand you, Morgan.”

This time, it was Corax's turn to smile.

"Without the Emperor's personal confirmation, given your character, it would be absolutely impossible for you to so clearly favor either side in the war."

"Judging from your tone just now, you clearly consider Holy Terra and Dorne to be one of our own."

"And I..." The Crow King paused for a moment.

He seemed somewhat ashamed, but also resolute.

"And I am not so opposed to being an enemy of Horus: although I also do not believe that Horus would betray the Emperor."

[Because some of the rebels genuinely believed they were not instigating a rebellion.]

“I understand that.”

Corax nodded.

"Just like a long time ago: some people thought that life on Redemption was not a form of oppression or slavery."

"So, are we going to be enemies with Horus?"

This matter is rather complicated.

Morgan drew a circle in mid-air.

Not all rebels are our enemies; some of them are truly ignorant.

But Horus was an exception.

[Perhaps subjectively speaking, Horus has not yet betrayed the Emperor.]

But the emperor will never forgive him.

[This involves something more complex, my little brother Corax: things the Emperor has been hiding from everyone.]

"Then you don't need to explain it to me clearly."

Corax immediately shook his head, preventing Morgan from continuing with a detailed explanation.

"I do not want to be omniscient and omnipotent."

"I am a person with limited abilities, so I just want to do my job well."

You actually came to this realization?

"When you feel obligated to take on a field you're completely unfamiliar with out of a sense of responsibility, you'll feel the same way I do."

The Crow King simply smiled.

“I thought I would adapt to domination and be good at it, just like you and Guilliman.”

"But reality shattered my illusions: it also made me more sober on other issues."

"I can't even fully comprehend this land beneath my feet: what right do I have to be a savior?"

【…】

"So, tell me."

Corax spoke calmly.

The Spider Queen was certain that what the Raven King had just said was indeed his true thought.

"Your Majesty, and you too, what do you want me to do?"

[This is not a simple matter.]

Morgan paused for a moment, then spoke in a serious tone that Corax had almost never heard before.

But it is very important.

"That sounds perfect for me."

Corax leaned slightly forward.

Does it need to kill someone?

It's best not to.

Morgan shook his head seriously.

"That couldn't be better."

The Crow King breathed a sigh of relief.

"It's not a major expedition right now."

Morgan then continued to ask questions.

[First, tell me, Korakx: what's the situation with the Death Guard?]

"Nothing special."

The Crow King recalled for a moment.

"Motalian left behind about 40% of his forces, and they didn't put much pressure on me."

"As for the main force of the Death Guard, their advance in the Imperial Fist territory has not been particularly smooth, but they have not suffered any major setbacks either: I heard that Sigismund did fight a few successful skirmishes and ambushes, but they were just a drop in the ocean in terms of the overall battle situation."

"What is hindering Mortalian's progress are still those fortresses built by the Imperial Fist: it will take him at least a few more months to sweep through all the fortresses and pave a safe road to the Solar System."

"in other words."

"If I march on Barbaros now, I could very well catch them off guard."

No, you don't need to do that.

Morgan shook his head.

Tell me, Korax: Does your territory now border the Solar System?

[Or to put it another way: Is there a transportation route between you that doesn't pass through rebel territory?]

"hiss……"

This question gave the Crow King some thought.

"it should be OK."

"I've heard that Taran, a major transportation hub in the eastern part of the Imperial Fist territory, has not yet fallen."

"If you start from here, pass through Taran, and then reach the Solar System, there shouldn't be any problem."

So, what about when we arrive in Terra?

"That depends on whether the communication lines between Betangamon and Holy Terra have been completely severed."

"So: you want me to lead the army to support Terra?"

No, your army is best left undone.

Morgan shook his head.

Terra's biggest threat right now isn't manpower, but their severe supply shortages.

"Oh……"

Corax understood immediately.

"You mean the large batch of supplies that you and Guilliman sent me not long ago, right?"

I hadn't originally thought it would be used for this purpose.

Morgan smiled.

How many Coraxes can you spare, Corax?

"most."

The Crow King patted his chest and assured him.

"The supplies you've given me are so plentiful that I'm even having trouble figuring out how to spend them."

"Even if more than 80% of the supplies are taken away, the Raven Guard Legion can still fight for several years with plenty of resources."

"Don't forget, Morgan, we have a large territory of our own that can be self-sufficient: that's really not a problem."

【very good. 】

The Spider Queen nodded.

Let's examine the details: Dorn might not be able to hold out for much longer.

"I know."

The Crow King nodded solemnly.

"I have no problems on my end. I can immediately order these supplies to be redeployed."

"However, I think I will indeed face some difficulties in terms of transportation capacity and support, Morgan."

Leave these to me.

Morgan made a promise.

Regarding transport capacity, Rizza will handle it: this transport route is also within their sphere of influence.

[As for the backup, there's no need to worry: I'll take care of the seal-bearer and Riza.]

As for other minor issues...

Come here, Corax.

I think we also need...

------

Has it been resolved?
Before his only daughter recovered from her long-range psionic communication, the Lord of Man stood beside the Spider Queen like a guard, remaining motionless and silent.

【almost. 】

Morgan rubbed his temples.

It didn't hurt that much.

With the Emperor by her side, even long-distance communication across the web and the real universe didn't put as much pressure on the Spider Queen.

She even had the energy to smile at the emperor.

You should be grateful for one thing, Father.

[You treated Corax with a rare display of fatherly affection.]

This friendship is now bringing you benefits.

Trust me.
The emperor, however, spread his hands out in a rather humorous manner.

This wasn't part of the initial plan.
+ Has Corax agreed to send supplies to Terra?
[Once we handle the situation between Holy Terra and Riza properly, they will be able to act immediately.]

I will handle Rizza well.

As for Terra...

Morgan paused at this point.

Her face, which had just recovered from its fatigue, was instantly filled with schadenfreude.

They all looked at their father with a mocking expression.

I think you should go and tell Macardo and Rogdorn yourself that the plan of action has changed.

This can greatly enhance their perception.

I wasn't really expecting anything from you anyway.
The Emperor, with his hands behind his back, replied to Morgan in a tone that was both sharp and assertive.

+After all, this matter is quite important: it's different from the ones you're responsible for. +
【snort……】

Morgan paused for a moment.

Are you sure, Father?

"decide what?"

You wouldn't let Corax lead troops to reinforce Terra.

[Based solely on Dorne's own words: Can he truly withstand Horus's army?]

[The War General is not someone to be trifled with.]

I know Horus's excellence better than you do.
The emperor seemed completely unconcerned about this.

I know Rogdorn better than you do.
+As long as he gets what he needs.
+ You don't even need to get all of it.
He will then do his job well.
+If fulfilling this responsibility requires a miracle.
Then he will create a miracle.
Believe me, before Dorn's perseverance: all your pride and strength pale in comparison.
He can do things you wouldn't even dare to dream of.
【…】

I have no doubt about this.

Recalling his brief but unforgettable time with the rock-solid Terra Guardians, Morgan simply nodded reluctantly.

Dorn certainly deserves this praise.

Nevertheless, the Spider Queen still added her own sarcastic remark, unwilling to admit defeat.

After all, this isn't the first time you've tried to achieve your goals by relying on other people's initiative and sacrifice.

What else can I say?

You are indeed very experienced in this area.

This is not merely a matter of subjective initiative.
The emperor simply smiled in response: just like a father who truly dotes on his daughter.

This also involves a bloody reality, Morgan.
My confidence stems not only from Dorn's own perseverance and the supplies Korakx delivered.
+And also because of something else that happened. +
Or, to put it another way: Horus would soon be unable to use his full force to besiege Terra.
This is where my confidence comes from.
【…】

Morgan paused for a moment.

Her brain began to spin rapidly.

Under the current circumstances, there seems to be only one situation that would prevent the Wolf God from launching a full-scale attack on Terra.

Morgan's eyes widened slightly.

Although she had arranged all of this herself, the Spider Queen still found it somewhat unbelievable.

Is it a bit too fast?

【Could it be that……】

That's right.
The Emperor nodded.

+Latest news. +
------

Johnson's fleet has just arrived in Avalon.
+And has taken full command of the Far East.
(End of this chapter)