In the relatively safe rear area, within a logistics workshop permeated with the scents of oil and incense, the atmosphere was surprisingly intense.
A Techmarine in Scythes of the Emperor Power Armour, whose right shoulder plate bore the red cog and skull insignia, was engaged in a heated argument with three Tech-Priests from Perditia.
The Techmarine held a uniquely shaped Lasgun in his hand.
"...Its energy cycle can be further optimized! If the Martian standard array is replaced with my Trident-model modification, the focus efficiency will increase by at least seven percent!" the Techmarine stated in his metallic-toned voice.
"Objection," one of the Perditian Priests immediately countered. "The Trident model will lower the overheating threshold, causing the weapon's wear rate to rise sharply under sustained high-intensity fire.
Our goal is to pursue maximum battlefield reliability while guaranteeing destructive power!"
Just as their argument was becoming heated, a set of heavy footsteps sounded from the workshop entrance. The group instantly ceased their debate and turned to look.
The Techmarine recognized the newcomer. He addressed the Tech-Priests, "Please excuse me, my brother has arrived."
He strode toward Reinhard, examining the battle damage on the Astartes' Power Armour, and asked directly, "Is the Power Armour malfunctioning, or is there an issue with your bolter, Brother Reinhard?"
It was natural for him to assume Reinhard was there due to equipment failure. Aside from equipment maintenance and tactical data exchange, combat brothers rarely sought out the Chapter's Techmarine.
Although Techmarines are crucial to a Chapter, their personal relationships often remain shallow.
Having been raised under the tutelage of Mars, when other brothers cried out the name of the Emperor, Techmarines silently recited the prayers of the Omnissiah, the Machine God.
Such divergent beliefs and worldviews naturally made it difficult to form deep private friendships, not to mention that Techmarines were often too busy for social engagement.
Unexpectedly, Reinhard shook his head. "No, I came here hoping you would do me a favour. Fabricate a mortal-sized Sollex Deathlight Lasgun."
"I can do that, it's quite easy, no difficulty there," the Techmarine hesitated, looking at Reinhard. "But... may I ask why, Brother Reinhard? You know I am often preoccupied."
"I made a promise concerning that particular Lasgun to a mortal," Reinhard's voice was low, tinged with a subtle regret. "During the battle, he was killed by a Lictor while creating an opportunity for me..."
The confusion on the Techmarine's face instantly vanished, replaced by solemn respect. He straightened his posture.
"I see. In that case, it is the reward he deserves. I will forge it as quickly as possible."
"I intended to deliver this Lasgun to that squad... however, his entire squad was annihilated in that ambush. I can only hope the Helldiver Corps will reconstruct their designation," Reinhard replied, shaking his head. "I will inquire with them later."
"You need not worry about that," the Techmarine heard this and laughed, the buzzing sound echoing in the workshop.
"If you merely hint at your request, they will immediately reconstitute it, Brother Reinhard."
Reinhard was confused. "Is that so? But wouldn't that be excessive interference with the mortals?"
"Of course not. Re-establishing a squad designation is hardly a major affair," the Techmarine said.
"As for whether it's excessive interference with mortals... Brother Reinhard, do you truly believe that after this war, our relationship with theirs will return to how it was before?"
"I even have reservations about whether our Chapter will remain the same after the war ends. Hehe, perhaps our livery will turn blue once the fighting stops..."
"Mind your words, my brother," Reinhard warned. "It is best to speak less on such topics. You must not bring the unrestrained attitude of Sotha VIII here!"
The interrupted Techmarine changed the subject. "At the very least, I find the company of these Perditian-born Tech-Priests quite enjoyable...
Omnissiah knows what Governor Robert did, but these Tech-Priests are all... incredibly innovative."
"Tech-Priests? Innovative?" Reinhard raised an eyebrow. In his understanding, the word Innovation within the Mechanicus was practically synonymous with Heresy.
"Indeed," the Techmarine affirmed. "They do not shy away from the source of technology, they are constantly pushing the envelope with new designs, and in the process, they show complete disregard for their own lives."
Reinhard raised an eyebrow. "They sound much like those fellows from Ryza."
"They are similar, but there is a fundamental difference." At this, the Techmarine subconsciously glanced back at the three Tech-Priests who were now chatting merrily.
One of them noticed his gaze and waved back at him in a friendly gesture, a hint of a smile visible beneath his partially mechanized faceplate.
"They understand sharing. Sharing!
Brother Reinhard, can you comprehend what an incredible quality that is for a Tech-Priest?"
Seemingly overwhelmed by the conduct of these Perditian Tech-Priests, the Techmarine felt compelled to confide in his Chapter brother.
"They disclose their latest research findings to me without hesitation! If I am willing to cooperate with them, they are even prepared to share some of the core structural data!"
He excitedly waved his arm. "When I tentatively asked them why they share such precious knowledge so easily, they actually said—'What great progress can a single person make working behind closed doors, even if they study until they die?'
Omnissiah preserve us! I don't even know what words to use to describe how I felt when I heard that…"
"Uh, brother, I understand your shock," Reinhard had to interrupt the Techmarine's endless chatter.
"But I need to return to the battlefield as quickly as possible; the fighting on the front lines is far from over..."
The Techmarine snapped out of his excitement and adjusted his posture apologetically.
"My apologies, Brother Reinhard, I lost my composure. I will fabricate the Deathlight immediately. Please wait for a moment…"
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In case you forgot Perditia is now Helldiver's 'homeworld' or game spawn xddd.