Chapter 6: A vox for help
the war-torn remnants of the once-stable world, Horus and Lion El'Jonson worked tirelessly alongside the local survivors. Their mighty forms stood out amidst the rubble, yet they moved with a gentleness that contrasted sharply with their ferocity in battle. They lifted fallen beams, cleared debris, and offered their strength to rebuild the shattered community.
The locals, awestruck by the presence of these legendary Primarchs, found renewed hope and strength in their assistance. Every action, every encouraging word, was a reminder that even in the darkest times, there was still light.
Meanwhile, inside a makeshift command room within the remnants of a once-grand building, Guilliman and Vulkan pored over maps and data-slates. The room, though dimly lit, buzzed with the energy of their strategic minds at work.
Guilliman: (Frowning as he studied the maps) "Our efforts here are crucial, Vulkan. But we must also plan for the broader conflict. The New Eye of Terror's influence is spreading, and we cannot afford to lose any more ground."
Vulkan: (Nodding in agreement, his expression resolute) "True, Roboute. Yet, each world we liberate strengthens our position. We must ensure that our gains are not temporary."
As they discussed their next steps, the sudden crackle of static erupted from the vox communicator on Guilliman's desk. Both Primarchs turned their attention to the device, their expressions shifting from focus to cautious curiosity.
Vox Communicator: (A weak, static-filled voice) "...anyone...help...Ultramar...one of the 500 worlds...overrun...please respond..."
Guilliman's brow furrowed as he recognized the voice and the call for aid from one of the worlds within the Ultramar system. His initial skepticism was tempered by the urgency in the voice. Half of Ultramar had been overrun by daemons years ago, making any communication from there a rarity.
Guilliman: (Exchanging a glance with Vulkan) "This could be a trap, Vulkan. Ultramar has been under daemon control for so long. But we cannot ignore a plea for help."
Vulkan: (Leaning forward, his gaze intense) "We must tread carefully, Roboute. However, if there is even a chance that this call is genuine, we owe it to the people of Ultramar to investigate."
Guilliman: (Nodding, his resolve hardening) "Agreed. I will respond to the call and gather more information. We cannot let fear paralyze us."
He activated the vox communicator, speaking clearly and authoritatively into the device.
Guilliman: "This is Roboute Guilliman of the Ultramarines. We received your distress call. Identify yourself and provide your coordinates."
The static persisted for a moment before the voice returned, faint but clearer.
Vox Communicator: "...Gravis...governor of...planet...our defenses...failing...coordinates transmitting..."
Vulkan listened intently, his expression a mixture of concern and determination. Guilliman recorded the coordinates and turned to Vulkan.
Guilliman: "We will mobilize a response team. We cannot abandon Ultramar, not now."
Vulkan: (Nodding) "I will prepare our forces and bring the news to our two brothers. We will be ready to move at your command."
Guiliman: "I almost forgot there's a small group of salamanders that survived and have taken refuge in the outer edge of the Ultramar system, I had left them there to defend the planet, they would be glad to see you once again.'
Vulkan: (makes a smile) "that they would, and I aswell."
As they prepared to rally their forces, the bond between the Primarchs grew stronger. They knew that the path ahead was fraught with danger, but their unity and resolve would be their greatest weapons against the encroaching darkness.