Emperor's Bane

Chapter 968 Taking Office in the Far East
"Avalon welcomes you, sir."

Standing before Zhuang Sen, Rana placed his clenched fist across his chest and bowed slightly as a sign of respect.

Behind the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Guard were many more people: the Captain of Astartes, the Marshal of the Auxiliary Army, the Fleet Commander, the member of the High Council, the Governor of the Sector, the Archbishop of the Forging World, the High Legal Commissioner, the Commander of the Titan Legion, and the High King of the Knight Family...

Everyone, all the prominent figures who could represent the authority of Avalon, and the industry elites who were qualified to express their opinions before the Spider Queen, were gathered behind the Commander of the Guard, doing the same thing as him: lowering their once proud heads and bowing in respect to the First Consul personally appointed by the Lord of Dawn.

The same scene was commonplace on the Far Eastern frontier in the past. Every time Morgan and her Second Legion returned from a long expedition, the scene that greeted them was no more shabby than it is now. However, unlike the harmonious atmosphere during the Spider Queen's time, today, most of the people present were shrouded in a fog of unease.

Following the Grand Commander of the Imperial Guard, the powerful and wealthy nobles of the Far East fixed their gazes on the tall figure who stepped down from the Stormbird.

Leon Johnson.

Countless people have heard of his terrifying reputation.

But the true appearance of this lion, like his and his army's past experiences, is hidden in layers of shadows that outsiders have no right to know.

Apart from Astartes and the mortal generals qualified to participate in the expedition, most of the Avalonians present were seeing Johnson for the first time, and they did indeed see a serious war god as they had expected.

The Caliban's black armor was adorned with crimson gems and pale gold engravings. The broad breastplate and shoulder armor were covered with densely packed emblems and symbols, representing every wisdom and voice within the Dark Angels. These visible and invisible powers were the embodiment of the Caliban's most fearsome authority and strength: through serpentine golden threads, all the power ultimately converged on the silver brooch on the lower right side of the Primarch's throat, from which a striking crimson half-shoulder cloak rose, drawing attention.

Rana's gaze swept over everything, then he nodded in satisfaction, the curve of his nod almost imperceptible.

There is no doubt that the Caliban's attire would appeal to the sons of Morgan. All the slightly older Dawnbreakers would remember that when they fought alongside their Dark Angels brothers to defeat the most powerful enemy in the Imperium's history, the Lion who commanded them wore armor similar to the one before them.

Black is the most suitable color for the First Legion: all other colors are merely imitations.

But these are not the most important things.

Rana blinked. He didn't turn his body or head, but simply glanced back and saw the expressions and gazes of the mortals around him.

Although they all bowed before the lion, these mortals were also observing the foreign regent in their own way. Their eyes held consideration, doubt, and a sense of estrangement, numbness, and distrust; but there was no pessimism or fear.

Zhuang Sen entered the Far East frontier's field of vision in the most appropriate manner: a well-prepared and upright military commander. His spotless armor, laden with merits, only reminded people of the strength of his legion and the brilliance of his resume, making people subconsciously believe in his ability and that he would at least be a great commander worthy of his reputation.

The possibilities that people had feared—such as a schemer hiding under a hood or a legendary, unkempt, bloodthirsty barbarian king—were shattered at this moment by the Primarch's innate charm, replaced by hope and a sense of security for the future: and this sense of security is exactly what Avalon needs most right now.

Thinking of this, the chief of the Imperial Guards felt a little relieved.

He was the first to step forward, showing his respect for the Caliban with humble manners.

As Morgan's designated "agent," Rana never intended to bargain with the Lion King, an outsider.

The specific reasons for this are varied, but the most important one is that after wielding military power in Avalon as a Primarch's proxy for some time, Rana became quite certain that this power exceeded his capabilities and was simply beyond his control.

Even with a reasonable division of labor, the administrative team left behind by the Primarch was only able to maintain the operation of the country in a calm and uneventful daily life: as the pace of war became clearer, they needed a stronger will to rule them.

Johnson may not be the best choice, but he's certainly not the worst.

Thinking of this, Rana bent over even deeper.

He knew that not far behind him, Bernard was waiting with two trusted ceremonial attendants: they carried a scepter, official seal, and certificates that symbolized the Spider Queen's authority, as well as legal documents that the Lord of Avalon had hastily amended before their departure—all paving the way for the Caliban's smooth takeover.

Perhaps pragmatists will scoff at these empty gestures, but doing so at least clearly expresses the Dawnbreaker Legion's stance. In the Far East, once the Dawnbreakers make a decision, the interests of mortals will be unable to make a ripple.

After discussions between Rana and Bernard, they intended to hand over these powers to Johnson as soon as possible to establish a complete subordinate relationship, dispel any thoughts that might arise, and ensure a smooth transition of power. However, the Lord of Dark Angels did not seem to intend for them to do so, and he did not give Rana enough time.

Before Rana could speak, Bernard, who had received the coded signal, bowed respectfully. The Grand Master of the Guards felt a distinct upward force, so strong that he couldn't resist. Rana looked over and saw that the infamous Lord of Caliban was grabbing his arm and awkwardly helping him up.

Clearly, Johnson didn't do this often before.

But this actually made his actions seem very real: even the words he spoke were the same.

"No need for formalities, Rana."

“You are Morgan’s son and my nephew: there’s no need for this between you and me.”

Looking at the somewhat stunned Rana, the frozen Bernard who didn't know what to do, and the crowd of curious mortals looking over, Caliban's Lion King first helped his most capable nephew to stand up straight, and then patted him on the shoulder in a friendly manner. From beginning to end, Johnson's face was covered with a smile that, while not particularly bright, was enough to make people feel friendly.

Clearly, seeing Rana put him in a good mood.

“I’m glad to see you, Rana: I’m glad to see you’re still as reliable as you were back then.”

"In this treacherous age, a loyal and capable general like you is a priceless treasure."

This sounded more like a private conversation between two people, but quite a few people did hear it: at least Rana could clearly feel the change in the gazes of the mortals behind him. He quickly thought about it and, with a sigh, abandoned his carefully prepared original plan.

At least things didn't get worse.

The Grand Master of the Guard muttered to himself, then turned to face the Primarch, spreading an arm to lead him to the welcoming procession on either side of the red carpet. The most powerful people in the entire Far East frontier were gathered there, and if Johnson wanted to rule this land, he would have to rely on their power.

The Primarch showed no stage fright, nor did he express the slightest dissatisfaction with the noise and bustling crowd on the deck, which was clearly not to his liking. He adjusted his cloak and strode toward the welcoming crowd, with only Arachios and another Dark Angel following closely behind, one of their hands always on the hilt of their swords.

Lana and Bernard took the opportunity to exchange a glance.

"It's changed?"

"Maybe: but so far, it's not too bad."

……

Considering Johnson's personal preferences, the welcoming ceremony was not arranged to be very grand.

The dignitaries who were able to arrive in Avalon in time were all present. The welcoming party of more than five hundred people approached the Caliban in turn. However, apart from a military band, a small contingent of troops waiting for inspection, and essential staff such as guards and attendants to introduce the officials, there were no other people gathered on the deck of the Aurora.

Therefore, the welcoming ceremony was conducted very quickly.

But Rana and Bernard still had plenty of time to observe this long-unseen lion.

Under their silent gaze, Zhuang Sen first approached the bureaucrats and officers, shaking hands with each important person with a polite smile and a composed demeanor, seemingly adept at this charming act: facing those eyes that were once known for their gloom, no one felt offended.

The Caliban adapted well. Whether it was bureaucrats who tipped their hats and saluted, soldiers who shouted their names and ranks after giving a military salute, governors and powerful figures who fawned over or were indifferent to his arrival, or those refined judges and unruly merchants and wanderers, none of their attitudes angered the lion. On the contrary, no matter who he was or what he was saying, the Lord of the Dark Angels could always give a few words of polite response.

He patted the soldiers on the shoulder and could accurately name those who had fought alongside him. He showed respect for the power of officials, both high and low, and maintained his dignity in front of traveling merchants. He would not smile more than half an inch because of the flattery of ordinary people, nor would he frown when he heard cold words: he was almost a tenth as perfect as the Spider Queen.

"I suspect he trained beforehand."

Rana lowered his voice.

"No doubt about it."

Bernard responded in the same low voice.

"The Lord of Dark Angels made thorough preparations before deciding to go to Avalon: didn't you notice something?"

"what?"

"This time, the ship that Johnson used was not the Indomitable Truth that he had always sailed on."

"Instead, it's a combat barge called Blackwing."

"That Indomitable Truth?"

"I heard that the main force of the legion led by Astram and Coswayne has returned to Caliban."

"However, before splitting up, Johnson did take some things from the Unyielding Truth and the Legion."

"Including some identifiable secret weapons: and almost all of the extermination order shares."

"By the Primarch..."

Rana heard himself take a deep breath.

"So, he now possesses an extermination order capable of blowing up the entire Far East frontier?"

"wrong."

Bernard corrected him quite seriously.

"It's fried three times."

"..."

Rana didn't say anything more, but instead turned his attention back to Johnson, who seemed to be performing exceptionally well.

Before long, the chief of the Imperial Guards suddenly realized a very interesting detail.

Although the Caliban appear to be doing their best to show equality and impartiality on the surface, a closer look at their actions reveals that the lion is always more indifferent when dealing with civil servants such as governors and judges.

Despite his efforts to appear attentive to the technical jargon used by the civil servants, and his ability to respond effectively to all questions and challenges, it was unclear whether this was due to prior preparation or because the Caliban had made some unexpected progress in the past fifty years.

In general, Johnson showed little interest in civilian officials such as governors or members of parliament. He did not initiate further conversations and seemed indifferent to their positions and powers: many bureaucrats who noticed this visibly lowered their guard.

The Primarch's lack of interest in the power they hold is a good thing: it means he won't take any further action.

In stark contrast, Zhuang Sen was much more enthusiastic towards all the military personnel present, including the generals and marshals who commanded the mortal auxiliary forces and naval fleets, as well as the imperial nobles who piloted Titan machines and knight mechs.

Especially the representatives of the Titan Legion, the Primarch not only carefully clarified their names and positions, but also inquired about their respective strengths: this was clearly seen by Rana and Bernard, who nodded to each other behind the Caliban Lion, and roughly understood the reason that the Mother of Genes used to persuade Johnson.

He still loves his Titan Legion just as much.

"But this time is different."

Bernard's words carried a hint of worry.

"This time, it's our Titan Legion."

"If it falls into his hands..."

"What are you afraid of?"

Compared to Bernard, who was still young and always stayed in the back and had never seen a big scene, Rana, who was born in the Holy Terra, seemed much more composed.

"Do you remember what the Primarch said?"

"The so-called elite troops are those who are willing to die on the most important battlefields."

"In a decisive battle like this, if we don't send our elite troops, what use are they?"

To put it more bluntly.

“We have created so many knights and titans.”

"It's all about making them die and be worn down in this battle."

“And this is what Zhuang Sen is best at.”

“I do not object to this.”

Neither of them spoke again. They followed silently behind the Caliban lion. The entire welcoming ceremony proceeded as smoothly as a still lake in calm weather, without the slightest ripple.

It wasn't until Johnson had shaken hands with everyone, inspected the Dawnbreakers' honor guard, and left the deck used for welcoming guests with his entourage that Rana and Bernard realized that their fears had never come true.

Nothing happened.

It wasn't until the door behind them was tightly shut, isolating the noise on the deck, and all the officials and soldiers who had come to participate in the welcoming ceremony left in an orderly manner, leaving only Johnson and a few others on this side of the door, that the cold air pulled Rana and Bernard back to reality: they seemed to only now truly realize that the person standing in front of them was completely different from the Johnson they had seen before.

he's changed.

And it didn't get worse.

This is really a good thing.

However, when the lion visibly relaxed and let down his guard, he seemed to revert to being the same lovable yet hateful creature he once was.

But at least he would smile at them.

"I don't think I'll ever adapt to these things."

Only four people stood amidst Zhuang Sen's laughter: besides Lana and Bernard, there was only the silent Arachos and an inner-circle veteran.

“Tell me, Rana.”

The Primarch looked at the Commander of the Royal Guard.

"There won't be any more of these rituals, right?"

"I think you'll be disappointed, sir."

Rana shook his head.

“We have also prepared another welcoming ceremony: not for the top leaders of Avalon, but for all the people.”

"We need to let the people know you're coming."

"Hmm... okay..."

The Lion King pondered for a moment, then nodded.

"I think this is necessary."

He dealt with this matter with a serious attitude.

"Before I arrived, Morgan had expressed to me her concerns about the instability of the people in Avalon."

“I should indeed appear in public, at least to let the people know that someone is still leading them and that everything is still under the control of their Queen Morgan: even if she can't be in charge now, she can still ensure that the entire Far Eastern frontier is under her protection. You, me, and many more are all cogs in the machine that make it all work.”

“I’m glad you think that way, sir.”

Rana breathed a sigh of relief, while Johnson subconsciously thought of what Luther had once told him.

“It’s not complicated, Rana.”

"Public morale is stable, and military morale is stable."

"In this chaotic era, the stability of the army's morale is everything."

"If we want to mobilize the army, we must at least make sure that we can mobilize the army."

At this point, the Primarch suddenly changed the subject.

"However, I don't think the next welcoming ceremony will be in five minutes, will it?"

"Of course not, sir."

Rana shook his head, then walked up to Zhuang Sen and personally guided him on the way.

"Our next public event for you is in a few hours: at 3 p.m., you will be speaking to the public at the Three Daughters Square."

"We have also prepared a draft for you."

"Very well, I don't like impromptu speeches."

Zhuang Sen nodded.

"It looks like we still have time for lunch and another short meeting."

"Could you help me with the setup, Rana?"

What are your orders?

“I hope to meet with the most important leaders in the Avalon army, the fewer the better: I want to hear your most important opinions, and I have some things to say.”

"We've already made arrangements for that."

Rana nodded.

"Including you and your entourage, there are only seven people: a meeting can be convened at any time."

"It could not be better."

"four people?"

"I think my brain can handle it."

A slight smile appeared on Zhuang Sen's lips.

"Now, lead the way."

------

Strictly speaking, this was Johnson's first real visit to the Aurora.

He had never been here before. Yes, it sounds incredible. The Dark Angels and the Dawnbreakers were arguably the two most coordinated legions in the entire Great Crusade, and the close relationship between Johnsen and Morgan was among the best in the Primarchs. But this close relationship was extremely unbalanced at times: for example, in terms of the initiative and dedication of both parties.

Each meeting between the two parties was either initiated by Morgan traveling to the Unyielding Truth or took place in a third-party setting: the Lion of Caliban was not a particularly enthusiastic person, and he lacked the motivation to visit other people's homes.

However, when Rana led Johnson and his silent knights to push open the door of an empty room and, after entering a series of codes, into a deep and dimly lit secret passage, the lion and his offspring were unusually calm: not only were they able to move swiftly through the secret passage on their first visit, but they also had a sense of familiarity as if they were back home when they looked around.

"This reminds me of the Indomitable Truth."

Looking at the narrow and complex passageways, the various hidden rooms connected by these passageways, the meeting rooms used to convene secret societies, and the armory storing weapons of mass destruction, the lion's face revealed a rather relaxed and contented expression.

He asked Bernard, who was walking beside him.

Are these passageways very old?

"That depends on how you define it."

Bernard considered his words carefully.

"Most of the passages, including the main passage we are currently traveling through, were built and renovated by Lord Morgan after he took over the Legion."

"I think she referenced my warship."

Zhuang Sen nodded without any surprise.

"What a discerning eye: she imitates very well."

For the Caliban, this was undoubtedly a sincere compliment.

But to Rana and Bernard, those words didn't sound so good.
Fortunately, this oppressive atmosphere didn't last long.

"Where is this?"

“Camlann Council Chamber, Your Excellency.”

"Next door is Lord Morgan's throne room: we usually discuss war plans here."

Have all the attendees arrived?

"They're all inside."

"So what are we waiting for?"

Zhuang Sen pushed open the door and entered, and then he saw the two people who had just stood up.

He knows them all.

"Ariman...and Danteok?"

------

"His Excellency Ahriman is in charge of all military issues related to psionic energy within the Far Eastern frontier."

"He will also be your psionic advisor."

"As for Lord Danteok, he is in charge of the special military forces stationed in the Salamas sector."

As Lana somewhat awkwardly introduced these two colleagues who, strictly speaking, did not belong to the Dawnbreaker Legion, Arajos and another Dark Angel had already spontaneously taken up positions guarding the gate. Meanwhile, Johnson slowly walked up to Ahriman and Danteok, looking at the two somewhat nervous warriors in front of him.

It took him a while to accept the situation.

Of the four people Morgan believed could fully represent the Dawnbreakers and the Far Eastern Frontier.

There were two people who were not her children.

Were his sisters really such open-minded people?
"..."

Also.

If Morgan hadn't been so magnanimous.

How could she possibly tolerate the old Zhuang Sen?

Thinking of this, the Caliban couldn't help but laugh.

This only made the two people in front of them more nervous.

"Ariman".

The Lion King first walked up to Senko.

A flicker of memory crossed his face.

"The last time we met was in Ulanno."

"At that time, everything was fine."

"Yes, my lord."

Compared to the person the Lion King remembered, the Ahriman before him had matured considerably. Even when facing the cold gaze of the Primarch, this last Thousand Son remained calm and composed.

"Everything was different back then: so many things have changed now."

"I know."

Zhuang Sen nodded.

"On Nicaea, the Emperor told me that Morgan used her reputation to save your life and future."

"So you're here, not Prospero."

“I will always be grateful for this, sir.”

"You'd better do that."

"Otherwise, you will find that I am better at protecting Morgan's reputation than you think."

Having said that, Zhuang Sen did not delve any further.

“Morgan also told me that she has entrusted all matters related to psychic energy to you. In that case, I will need your help in the future.”

"I will do my best, sir."

Ahriman bowed down to pay his respects to Johnson.

He bent his back very low, even if it was a bit too humble for Astartes, but Ahriman did it without changing his expression.

Zhuang Sen, watching this scene, narrowed his eyes.

Only now could he be certain that this once most arrogant figure in the Thousand Sons Legion had indeed changed considerably.

"I will do everything I can to believe in you."

After saying this, the Primarch paused for a moment.

For reasons unknown, Zhuang Sen suddenly brought up that rather inappropriate topic.

"do you know?"

“I’ve thought for a long time that Magnus wasn’t really that smart: he was just very learned.”

"But he's not a really smart person."

"Even so, in my opinion, he is not the traitor that everyone talks about."

“I’ve seen far too many traitors, Ahriman.”

“I know what a traitor looks like, I know what a traitor tastes like, I know what they say and what they do, I know their cunning and flaws, I know their despicable hearts and desires.”

"Therefore, I am certain."

“Magnus on Nichea did not betray us.”

At this point, he paused.

The people in the room were all staring into the Caliban's dark pupils, unsure of what Johnson wanted to do by bringing up these matters at this time.

Ahriman lowered his head deeply, and no one could see the expression on his face.

However, when he spoke again, Zhuang Sen's tone became much gentler.

"So, you know."

"The Thousand Sons Legion is different."

"They may have made mistakes too, but they are different from the legions that are now roaming the galaxy."

Ahriman raised his head slightly.

"When I was carrying out the punishment, the Emperor spoke to me privately."

Some mistakes deserve no pity.

"And there are other mistakes, which are equally serious, and which require a great deal of effort."

"But they will eventually be able to redeem themselves."

"If they are willing to shed blood for this: the emperor will never fail those who are loyal."

After saying these words, Zhuang Sen didn't care much about the expression on Aliman's face. He simply patted Aliman's shoulder and clearly felt Aliman's shoulder twitch unnaturally.

I hope he will listen to what I have to say.

Zhuang Sen thought to himself, then turned to look at Danteok, who was also deep in thought because of those words.

"As for you, Lord Danteok."

"I am here, sir."

The war blacksmith immediately stood up straight.

“Morgan also mentioned you to me.”

"She admires you: very much, very much."

With his hands behind his back, Zhuang Sen slowly walked up to Danteok. Just his approaching figure made the War Blacksmith break out in a cold sweat.

Although the lion's tone was relatively lighthearted.

“Morgan once told me that there are not many things in this galaxy that she can regret.”

"One of them is that you are not her child."

"But I am pleased, Lord Danteok: you are still willing to serve the right side in the war."

Danteok also lowered his head, but his spine remained straight. The War Blacksmith remained silent in response to Zhuang Sen's words, indicating that he had no comment.

Zhuang Sen didn't pay any attention to it.

He strolled over to Danteok and carefully examined the man who had earned Morgan's high praise.

"My intelligence tells me that your forces now number two hundred thousand?"

"Two hundred and thirty-three thousand men, sir: but only about sixteen thousand have immediate combat capability."

"very good."

The lion smiled.

"I think I can trust you, right?"

"Soon, I may assign you some challenging positions: these will require your blood and sweat."

“We have been waiting for this day for a long time, sir.”

Danteok took a deep breath.

"I believe that you reap what you sow, and we have already taken too much in return: now is the time to give back."

These words made Zhuang Sen nod in satisfaction.

Many people don't understand this simple truth.

"This led them astray: and caused the galaxy to burn because of their folly."

"And now, we are going to correct all of this."

The last sentence was addressed to everyone.

Zhuang Sen walked to the round table and forcefully tapped the mahogany surface, attracting the attention of everyone present.

"Gentlemen."

He said.

"I trust Morgan's judgment: I also trust you, the elites she personally selected."

"Therefore, I won't waste any more words."

"Before the meeting officially begins, I hope to set the tone for the next steps on the Far Eastern frontier."

Zhuang Sen looked around at everyone present.

Rana and Bernard stood together, exuding a unique confidence as hosts.

Perhaps the Spider Queen had already hinted at what Zhuang Sen was about to say, and the two Dawnbreakers were more resolute in their eyes.

As for Ahliman?
His gaze was obscure and unfathomable.

But Zhuang Sen wasn't worried about him.

One reason is Morgan's guarantee.

Secondly, because he had just personally confirmed it.

Ahriman will not be the one to cause trouble: their enemies have no leverage to sway him.

As for Danteok, he was probably the most naive of all those present. He was completely unaware of what was about to happen, and had no interest in the deeper implications. He simply acted on his instincts as a warrior and his sense of loyalty, subconsciously making his choice before the war even began.

But it is precisely these kinds of people who, in Zhuang Sen's view, are the most reliable: they would rather die than betray him.

Then, the lion curled the corners of its mouth into a smile.

His sisters left him several sharp blades, which he could use with confidence.

"Our ultimate goal is to transform the entire Far Eastern frontier into a fully operational war machine."

Zhuang Sen's loud voice echoed in the conference room.

"And to fulfill its inherent mission."

That is: at the right moment.

"Marching toward the center of the Milky Way."

"To annihilate Horus, the warlord who betrayed the emperor, and all his rebellious followers."

"Kill them all."

"Leave no one behind."

------

The first few chapters were criticized by readers as being too weak, but I was actually a bit confused myself.

Actually, I've always been confused: sometimes I put a lot of effort into a piece, but it's considered shoddy, and other times I just cobbled together something in a rush, but the response is good. I always feel like I'm going against the mainstream market...

However, the problems still need to be addressed.

Today's chapter is an experiment. If the comments section thinks the pacing and content are good, then I'll stick to this pace in the future. If there are any issues, I'll make some changes.

(End of this chapter)