The extremely long two-hundred-year journey in the Trisolaran world finally came to an end.
Besides incorporating this world and using it as a new "Anchor Point," Emrys also unlocked a few "Surprises."
Specifically, these included the Trisolaran Civilization's technological system, such as research into the Strong Interaction Force, Micro-etching Technology, Quantum Entanglement Long-Distance Communication, Micro-Particle Unfolding Technology in Higher-Dimensional Space, Gene Cloning Technology, and so on.
These technologies were collected by the Martian Machine cult and subjected to relevant reverse engineering research, and they will soon be officially put into use.
Among them, there was one study that Emrys was very concerned about.
That was the research titled "On the Use Rate of Trisolaran Brainwaves and psyker Resonance Amplification." According to the Archmagos of biology, if this project succeeds, it might be possible to find high-quality consumables to replace the Traveler astropath and psyker in the future.
During Warp travel, Traveler Astropaths often take on enormous risks; once corrupted, the entire fleet will lose direction.
And when many Space Marines and Astra Militarum carry out special missions, they also need to bring psykers as "consumables" to resist Warp corruption. At the same time, the Astropathic Choir must burn a large number of psykers every day as "fuel for The Emperor."
But if this research can be completed, it will directly solve these three major problems.
Furthermore, the Astropathic Choir will no longer need to anxiously await the "Tithe" sent from various worlds and Hive Cities.
This can be considered the Trisolaran Civilization's final "contribution" to the Imperium of Man, having served diligently until death.
As for whether they themselves were willing, that is outside the scope of human consideration.
"I can finally go back...
"
Emrys took a deep breath and stored all the organized data into his Personal Space.
This trip was also the largest time span he had ever experienced!
A full two hundred years!
If the Time Ratio hadn't been adjusted to the maximum, they would probably have been long gone by the time he returned.
"Are you leaving?" Maximus, who had been guarding him, asked casually upon seeing that he had finished organizing the large amount of research data.
"Yes."
Emrys nodded.
He had generally finished arranging the work here, including the future direction.
And during these two hundred years, he himself was not idle, repeatedly conducting large numbers of experiments inside the black Stone Palace established beneath the snowy mountain.
Among them was the Thunder Warriors Gene Reverse Engineering, which Maximus cared about the most.
Now, it could be considered to have yielded results.
He carefully placed several test tubes containing crystal-clear, viscous liquid into a storage box and said to Maximus beside him, "Since I promised you, I will certainly deliver... Although it's not complete yet, it can at least partially improve the Genetic Defects of the Thunder Warriors."
Maximus' gaze fell on the few vials of reagents, and his tense expression seemed to relax slightly.
"Thank you."
Over the past two hundred years, he had personally watched how Emrys conducted the research, starting from having no foundation, slowly gaining a partial understanding, and finally achieving reverse decryption.
It was truly remarkable, and he had genuinely fulfilled his promise.
"Let me be clear first," Emrys said calmly, looking at him. "First, these Gene-seed are still in the preliminary stage and might not completely fix your Genetic Defects. Second, I don't have the complete Genetic Map of the Thunder Warriors, so it's impossible to fully complete it. Therefore, other conditions might arise after use. Do you understand?"
"Don't worry. Even if something goes wrong... I won't blame you."
Maximus sighed. He had already set an example by trying the function of the serum, and it could indeed improve their defects.
But he was him, and others were others.
Just because he used it without issue didn't mean others would be fine; he could still distinguish that point.
"That's good."
Emrys nodded slightly.
"Get ready, we are about to depart."
"Wait" Suddenly, Maximus hesitated for a few seconds, his gaze drifting toward the heavy palace gate.
"What about... them?"
"They," whom he mentioned, were the product created over these two hundred years during the research into Thunder Warriors genes, into which Emrys incorporated "Biological Alchemy," mixing it with Super Space Marine gene sequences—the Custodes!
However, they were defective products!
This wasn't because their combat power was low, but because these Custodes had a tight connection with the Warp from the moment of their creation!
To some extent, their risk of losing control... was even far higher than that of the Thunder Warriors.
After a long silence, Emrys' gaze fell upon the heavy gate, and he said softly, "I can understand how you feel, but they must stay here. This is already the best outcome, at least... until I find a way to sever that connection."
This feeling of being "abandoned" perhaps gave Maximus, also a Thunder Warrior, a sense of empathy.
Yet, having participated in the entire experimental process, he couldn't refute Emrys' statement.
He knew better than anyone the magnitude of the risk posed by these "Custodes," and he understood what terrifying "Monsters" these warriors, created relying on that strange Divine Imprint, would become once they spiraled into loss of control!
It was precisely because of this that they were sealed here!
"Do you know something?" Maximus let out a deep sigh, his eyes reflecting Emrys' figure, and he said meaningfully, "You... are becoming more and more like him."
Emrys, who was adjusting the settings for their return, suddenly froze upon hearing that sentence.
Immediately, his expression turned ugly. He seemed to be gritting his teeth, yet also helpless, and finally exhaled a breath of stale air.
"Traveler, return!"
[Welcome back, Traveler]
[Traveler: Emrys]
[Race: Human/Unresolved]
[Profession: Rogue Trader]
[Main world: Warhammer M42]
[Anchor Point Worlds: Marvel Cinematic universe—99999, Alien universe, Resident Evil, Transformers, The Wandering Earth, Trisolaris]
[world Authority Level: LV6]
[Destiny Blessing: Facing Death, Seeking life]
[Current Status: A suitable next Anchor World has been found for you]
[Congratulations, you have unlocked a brand new Destiny"—Forbidden Abyss]
[The Raven God casts down its gaze, granting you profound Forbidden Knowledge"]
Emrys' gaze fell on the last line.
Forbidden Knowledge... He slowly sighed. It was exactly as he expected.
The fact that he could decipher the Thunder Warriors' Gene Sequence and reverse-engineer the Gene Modification Serum in just two hundred years surely required some "Occult" knowledge. Tzeentch had clearly seized upon this point.
The more he sought to explore and find ways to curb Chaos, the more he unknowingly fell into the trap preset by Tzeentch.
"Making deals with Chaos, I'm really moving up in the world"
But Emrys didn't take it too seriously. There was no need to be overly nervous about Chaos.
Didn't the Old Emperor also make deals with Chaos back in the day?
Furthermore, there was another matter that concerned Emrys more.
That was the fact that two hundred years had passed, yet his appearance... hadn't changed at all!
In the simple room, looking at the face reflected in the mirror, Emrys stared at the three characters "Unresolved" next to "Race" on the System Interface, sinking into deep silence.
What the hell exactly is he?!
Under normal circumstances, even with high-level life-extension surgery, humans would inevitably age over two hundred years.
Even most mechanized priests would show a series of aging symptoms, unless they learned from Belisarius Cawl and mechanized most of their flesh and blood, including parts of their brains.
But even Belisarius Cawl needed to back up his memories.
However, what about Emrys?
He truly endured two hundred years in the Three-Body world!
During these two hundred years, not only did his appearance not change in the slightest, but his physical condition also showed no signs of deterioration.
Suddenly, looking at his still 'young' reflection in the mirror, a terrifying thought popped into Emrys' mind.
"Am I an Immortals?"
As soon as this thought emerged, he felt a chill run down his spine.
Immortalss possess abilities that are highly enviable.
First, and most crucially, no matter how severe the physical damage—decapitation, dissolution, vaporization—they can revive within a certain period, ranging from minutes to years, depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's power.
Second, as the name suggests, Immortalss are completely immune to aging, forever maintaining the physiological state they had when 'granted immortality'.
Third, the existence of Immortalss is naturally closely linked to the Warp, so most possess extremely strong Psychic talents.
In other Worldviews, immortality might be a blessing.
But in the Warhammer Universe... it's absolute torture!
At least, in Emrys' knowledge and understanding, few Immortalss have had a good end.
The Emperor?
Currently still on the Golden Throne, unable to live or die, ultimate torture.
Malcador, a psyker second only to The Emperor, was literally drained by the Golden Throne, his soul shattered into fragments, never to be resurrected!
Sanguinius... paste.
Vulkan, Son of the fire Dragon, well, he's even worse off, already driven to mental breakdown by torture, who knows when he will be coming home.
Counting upwards, the only 'possibly' decent Immortals was Eldrad, imprisoned by The Emperor.
The thought of being an 'Immortals' made Emrys' skin crawl, sending shivers down his spine.
This was no joke.
If he really was an 'Immortals', wouldn't he truly become a stand-in for some 'Yellow-skinned Weasel'?
"Why are you spacing out?"
Suddenly, a hand from behind patted his shoulder.
It was Maximus. Seeing Emrys' strange expression, he frowned and asked, "I called you several times, but you didn't respond. Are you okay?"
"No, I'm fine" Emrys' face was pale, his mind still swirling with the speculation about whether he was an 'Immortals', so he could only force a smile.
But this smile, in Maximus' eyes, appeared extremely stiff.
"Are you really okay?"
He couldn't help but feel concerned.
Although they didn't get along well at first, over two hundred years, Maximus had already come to regard him as a friend.
"Really, I'm fine."
Emrys took a deep breath, pushing away the distracting thoughts in his mind, and said, "Enough about me, how is his situation?"
As he spoke, he naturally shifted his gaze to the figure in the corner.
Theoris, a Thunder Warrior who had completely lost his mind, had been tied with iron chains in the corner by Maximus before they left.
"I've roughly checked him, and his condition is not bad," Maximus said, slightly relieved. "Judging from the surrounding traces, we must have been gone for about seven days."
About seven days, which means a thousand times the duration?
Emrys lowered his head, a little surprised in his heart. He hadn't expected the time difference for this journey to be so great!
"Enough talk, first inject him with a Gene-seed." He shook his head and took out the prepared Gene-seed from his private space.
"If anything happens, we can make other preparations."
"Okay."
Maximus nodded and took the agent from his hand.
Then, he looked at his former Captain, now dull-eyed, pupils unfocused, like a soulless puppet. Gritting his teeth, he opened the cap of the agent and inserted the needle into the other's carotid artery.
As the viscous liquid was pushed into his body, Theoris, who was like a puppet in the wheelchair, seemed to gain a glimmer of spirit in his eyes.
Theoris, like a decaying piece of deadwood infused with vigorous life, let out a low, hoarse gasp, and the depths of his dull pupils slowly regained focus.
Until, as if waking from a dream, he saw the person in front of him.
"Max... Maximus?"
His voice was sharp and hoarse, like coarse gravel, making one extremely uncomfortable.
Yet, this voice, in Maximus' ears, was like heavenly music.
"It's me, Theoris."
It was hard to imagine that a Thunder Warrior, known for his emotional detachment, would show such rich and complex expressions.
Maximus looked at the familiar face, suppressing his excitement. His rough, calloused hands, capable of crushing heretics, even trembled. A thousand words condensed into a simple sentence.
"Welcome... coming home."
"You seem to have aged, Maximus."
Theoris stared at him blankly, a bitter expression on his face.
"I'm sorry, it seems... I must have caused you a lot of trouble."
"This isn't trouble."
Maximus shook his head.
"We said we'd live and die together. Moreover, if it weren't for us, you wouldn't have... so early."
"None of that matters anymore, Maximus."
Theoris smiled and slowly said, "Thanks to The Emperor, He allowed me to regain my sanity once more to bid you farewell properly... Maximus, give me a quick end. I don't want to become a mad beast again. This is our inevitable fate."
Thunder Warriors who fall into madness have a chance to regain their sanity.
However, this symptom will cause the periods of regained sanity to gradually shorten over time until they disappear completely.
And failing organs will also prompt the rampaging Thunder Warriors to eventually be executed by their comrades.
Theoris, evidently, attributed this awakening to The Emperor's 'benevolence' and thus hoped his former comrade would send him on his way!
"No, there's no need, Theoris."
Maximus' voice trembled. He slowly knelt down and placed his hand on his Captain's leg.
"Theoris, from now on, we are no longer 'flawed' defective products. I have found the way to redeem us!"
"What are you saying?"
Theoris in the wheelchair seemed still immersed in the atmosphere of bidding farewell to his comrade, completely unresponsive.
"I mean... I have found a solution to our genetic defects!"
Maximus enunciated each word, speaking in a deep voice.
"From this moment on, we are no longer"
"Defective products abandoned by Him!"
"What? There's actually a way to fix our genetic flaws!"
"Hold on—what do you mean the Imperium… split in half?"
"Oh, the Astronomican went out… huh?"
In the space of a few short minutes, Theoris felt his brain was about to overload.
Truth be told, he couldn't really be blamed.
After all, when the first-ever Captain-General of the Custodes ordered them to leave Terra, Theoris had sworn to stop caring about the Imperium.
And these years in the Gomo, apart from the early arena-slaughter to pay off debts and buy organ-failure retardants, he'd spent most of his time in a hazy, uncontrolled stupor, utterly cut off from the outside world.
Now, finally clear-headed, he was bombarded by one shock after another until his mind went numb.
How could a perfectly intact Imperium, after a single sleep… just break?
Literally break!
Even the Astronomican had—though deep inside he still nursed a grudge over what the Emperor had done back then, the obsession buried in his bones made Theoris' eyes well up.
"Never imagined humanity would end up like this…"
"
He clenched his fists; steel-hard bones let out a terrifying grind, murderous intent blazing in his tiger eyes.
"Astartes! They call themselves better than us? Trash!"
"Yeah, total trash."
Old Company Captain Maximus heartily agreed.
"Oh, and the Custodes are trash too."
No question—he'd always despised the Custodes, never mind the Astartes bred to replace them.
"Custodes? Hmph…" Veteran Captain Theoris sneered, contemptuous.
"All glitter, no guts—worse than those Astartes whelps, the dregs of the dregs!"
To him, the Custodes' perpetual inaction was the root of today's mess; calling them trash was being polite.
As for Emrys, all he could do was force a dry laugh at the two veterans' tirade.
From the Thunder Warriors' standpoint, they had every right to judge whether Custodes and Astartes measured up.
Who asked them to have fought at the Emperor's side in the Unification Wars on Terra?
In trendy terms: Thunder Warriors were the "True-yellow-banner" elite.
While they were bleeding and conquering for the Emperor, the Custodes—and even the Primarchs—were still embryos in test tubes!
Fortunately, after a few curses Theoris calmed down.
"You say your mission is to relight the Astronomican?" Though wheelchair-bound, the moment he spoke the reek of blood and slaughter rolled off him like a tide.
"Yes."
Emrys, tempered through countless battles, nodded without flinching.
"By order of the Captain-General of the Custodes, Trajann, I came here seeking your help."
"Fine."
Theoris agreed without hesitation.
"Complicated stuff is beyond us," he paused, then grinned savagely on his rugged, weather-beaten face, "But killing—our specialty."
"I believe that."
When it came to raw combat power, Emrys had absolute faith in the Thunder Warriors.
These maniacs had taken Terra in nothing but flesh, power-armour or not; if their minds had been stable, they'd never have been replaced!
In coordination, tactics and discipline the Astartes were clearly superior.
But for small-team decapitation, annihilation and breakthrough, Thunder Warriors were unmatched.
Otherwise they'd never have won the monster-infested Unification Wars back then.
"No rush." Emrys gave a mild smile and shook his head. "For now we don't need force. Your top priority is to recover—trouble's coming soon enough."
"You're right." Theoris settled his emotions and thumped his useless legs. "I'm no use like this. By the way… where's Cassius?"
Maximus shook his head.
"No idea. We've been gone seven days; I don't know where he is."
Speak of the devil.
Just while the three indoors were discussing the last name on their five-man list—Cassius—a furious roar came from outside.
"Custodes?!"
Immediately afterward came a thunderous bellow.
"Damn it!" Maximus' face changed; ignoring the man in the wheelchair, he rushed out.
Emrys followed right behind.
The moment they stepped outside they saw a cloaked, berserk giant swinging a punch at Terax.
"Wait—" Terax tried to explain.
But the red-eyed, rampaging Cassius wasn't about to listen.
"Less talk!" He stamped; the ground shook as his cannon-like fist blasted straight at Terax's face. "Emperor's lapdogs—how far do you plan to drive us?!"
Terax's face hardened; he instantly stepped back.
As the fist shot toward him he wrapped both arms around the arm and spun to throw the attacker.
But Cassius wasn't green; the instant the Custodes tried the toss he snapped a knee upward.
An iron knee smashed into Terax's flank.
A normal knee wouldn't budge a Custodes, but this was no normal man—Thunder Warrior strength, speed and physique matched or even surpassed theirs!
Terax grunted; the moment his grip slackened Cassius' left arm coiled round his neck.
With brute force alone the Thunder Warrior ripped the Custodes off the ground!
Bang!
The mighty Custodes was planted head-first into the dirt!
"Hmph, is that all the Emperor's hound can do?" Cassius mocked, yet without pause he formed a hand-blade like a steel sword and chopped at the fallen man's skull.
Terax's eyes flared red; in crisis he snapped his waist, legs lashing out to kick Cassius square in the face!
Bang!
Caught off-guard, Cassius staggered back several steps.
Terax regained his footing, killing-intent blazing.
"You dare insult the Custodes!"
A pocket Singularity Generator of devastating power was already in his hand, ready to hurl.
The sprawling Cassius caught the motion and levelled an ancient Bolter at the Custodes' head, finger tightening on the trigger.
Just as the two were about to kill each other—
"Stop!"
"Cassius, stand down!"
Two voices rang out; Maximus was already there, fingers wedged behind the Bolter's trigger.
At the same time Terax was locked motionless by telekinesis.
The two of them had barely prevented a bloodbath.
That was close!
Emrys' forehead was slick with sweat—seconds more and it would've been too late.
Yet he also felt helpless.
One blink and Custodes and Thunder Warriors were at each other's throats; if he'd been a step slower, at least one of them would've died!
Just how deep does the grudge between Thunder Warriors and Custodes run?
Answer: deeper than the sea.
The long-standing feud between the Imperial Fists and the Thunder Warriors is deep-seated and extremely complex.
It's not something that can be explained in a few words, nor can it be resolved with a few sentences.
Moreover, it's impossible to judge who was right and who was wrong now.
It's hard to say that the Thunder Warriors who died in the Battle of Mount Ararat didn't wish for that outcome themselves. In fact, many of the surviving Thunder Warriors vaguely understood this principle.
Otherwise, if the Imperial Fists had strictly carried out their orders, how could any Thunder Warriors have survived?
In short, it's a messy affair.
Emrys had no intention of comforting them or mediating; he was here to do business, not to be a peacemaker!
This matter should be left to the Imperial Fists Marshal Trajan to worry about.
"I'm leaving things here to you for now."
Looking at the still wary Cassius, Emrys didn't waste time and handed him the remaining serums.
"I have another matter to resolve. I'll contact you in a few days."
"Alright."
Maximus, who had partnered with him for two hundred years, was familiar with Emrys' habits and nodded in agreement.
"Let's leave here first."
Seeing this, Emrys said to Terax.
Terax took a deep look, and the discipline ingrained in his bones kept him from speaking further. He retracted the Miniature Singularity Generator.
"You're just letting them go?" Cassius was indignant, glaring at the Imperial Fist and that… tall human.
"That's an Imperial Fist, what if…"
"Shut up!"
Maximus had a headache and could only roar at him in a low voice.
"Say one more word, and you'll be waiting for Theoris to beat you!"
Sure enough, the old company commander was still effective!
The second before, Cassius, who was still struggling, immediately became obedient upon hearing Theoris' name.
But he couldn't help but say.
"Is the company commander lucid? Hasn't he… been crazy for a long time? If you ask me, we should just… just… if you ask me, if it's really not possible, don't let him suffer anymore."
Maximus shook his head.
"No, it's no longer necessary."
"What's no longer necessary?" Cassius frowned, seemingly recalling something, and sighed.
"Actually, I don't think we need to persist. Letting the old company commander live like this is pure suffering. It's better to… let him rest in peace sooner. If I ever go crazy, you should just shoot me early and let me die quickly."
"Cough, cough, that's not what I meant…"
Maximus noticed a figure out of the corner of his eye.
"Then what do you mean?"
Cassius' eyes showed a hint of pain, and his voice trembled as he said.
"If you can't do it, then let me… I'll send the company commander off. Instead of going on like this, it's better to end it sooner!"
"What?"
Suddenly, a low, hoarse, sinister voice came.
"You little brat, you're in such a hurry to send this old man off?"
This familiar voice was almost etched into his bones.
Cassius' pupils widened, and he turned sharply, only to see the old company commander Theoris in his wheelchair, staring at him with a cold smirk.
He looked exactly as he had years ago, with clear, deep, rational eyes.
Not like that crazy, beast-like monster howling for unity!
"O-old company commander… you're not crazy?!"
Theoris wheeled over, then raised his hand and slapped him on the head.
"You bastard, you were hoping I was crazy, huh?" After hitting him, he paused, his throat bobbing, then he fiercely pulled the bewildered Cassius into a tight embrace.
"Good, you didn't disgrace me! You should let him see what kind of trash the Imperial Fists are!"
Maximus' lips curved slightly upward.
Although hitting people was indeed somewhat wrong.
But if the other party was an Imperial Fist, then it was a different matter.
Moreover, if they lost to the Imperial Fists, given the old company commander's temperament, his fate would only be worse!
"W-what in the world is going on?!" Now, Cassius was completely dumbfounded.
In his mind, when he left a week ago, the old company commander was still locked in the room, looking like a mad beast.
How could the old company commander be fine when he returned a week later?
"I'll explain this to you slowly."
Maximus patted his shoulder, a smile on his lips, and said in a light tone.
"You only need to know one thing: from now on, we… no longer need to worry about genetic defects. This problem has been solved!"
"Aren't you going to ask what I've been doing, disappearing for so long?
J
Seeing Terax remain silent all the way, Emrys couldn't help but start a conversation.
"Not curious, don't want to know."
Terax finished speaking, stared at him for a few seconds, then frowned and slowly said.
"You seem to… have grown taller again."
"Hm? Really?"
Emrys was a little surprised; he hadn't noticed that himself.
"About five centimeters." Terax's gaze lingered on him, and he nodded with certainty.
"I wouldn't be mistaken."
66
"
Emrys fell silent.
Could it be that there was really something wrong with him?
"Where are we going next?"
Terax asked.
"Back."
Emrys took a deep breath and said, "To find Korion. I have an idea that needs his help to be realized."
On the way back, they met the Blood Singer, Korion, waiting at the entrance.
He seemed to be furious about something, chastising a Half-breed. His fingers, like scalpels, wantonly cut into the Half-breed's skin, peeling off pieces of flesh. No matter how the Half-breed begged and screamed, Korion only showed an intoxicated expression, completely unmoved, as if he were enjoying it.
Upon seeing Emrys, Korion, who was tormenting the Half-breed, immediately adopted a humble posture.
"Lord, are you finished?"
"Yes."
Emrys nodded, his gaze falling on the tormented Half-breed.
"Get lost!" Korion immediately turned and cursed, blood surging in his eyes, then reverted to a fawning, subservient posture.
"Lord, what are your orders?"
"What happened?"
Emrys' gaze followed the fleeing Half-breed, then he asked.
"Nothing, this lowly creature saw me and didn't kneel, so I punished him slightly." Korion said in a very casual tone.
"Oh~"
Emrys said meaningfully.
"Let's go, take me to see your teacher."
It seemed like nothing had happened, but… he had seen it very clearly just now. In the eyes of the Half-breeds kneeling around, an unusual emotion was revealed when Korion tormented that Half-breed.
And that emotion was… anger!
Excellent, anger was exactly what he wanted. If there wasn't even anger, then he could consider other plans.
Only anger, unwillingness, and resentment can cultivate the seeds of rebellion, right?
Led by Korion, Emrys and Terax returned to the Pain Bank.
However, after entering the back from the front desk and arriving at the laboratory, a strong smell of blood, coming from behind the rusty iron door, caused a physiological discomfort and nausea.
"Sorry, Sir is busy. Please wait a moment," Korion said politely, seemingly knowing what was going on inside.
Unexpectedly, a voice came from inside.
"No need. Lord Emrys is not an outsider. Just come in directly."
It was Verion.
He obviously already knew of Emrys' arrival.
Since he said so, Emrys didn't care and pushed the door open to enter.
The laboratory was brightly lit. Verion stood in front of an operating table, his four arms holding thin, delicate knives, dissecting a creature.
This scene was just like a mad scientist in a horror movie, conducting twisted and bloody experiments.
"Sorry, Lord Emrys," Verion said, without turning his head, focusing on the work at hand. "Please wait a moment. I am performing an operation."
Yes, he called this cruel, bloody act an operation!
And lying on that operating table was an extremely strong creature, but unfortunately—it was now completely impossible to distinguish which race it belonged to.
It had been completely disemboweled by this seasoned Blood Singer, with extremely intricate surgery and understanding of biological structure!
Every piece of flesh, fiber, including bones, meridians, and internal organs, was stripped out and displayed before him in an extremely cruel, terrifying, and detailed manner.
And what was even more terrifying was this.
From Emrys' perspective, he could directly see that the creature lying on the operating table had pupils filled with fear. It—was to live, and perfectly conscious, watching itself being dissected bit by bit!
This was the horror of the Blood Singer!
It was also the reason why many races would rather die directly than fall into the hands of a Blood Singer.
They have an extraordinary understanding of the physical structure of living beings, and in terms of surgical techniques and biological modification, they are almost unmatched. If they wish, they can literally make a person watch themselves being stripped to a skeleton without dying!
Do not doubt whether a Blood Singer can do it.
When it comes to torture—they are professionals!
Slice, sizzle, crunch—
As the "Operation" proceeded, with the subtle sounds of blades cutting skin, separating blood vessels and meridians, the creature watched, wide-eyed, as its internal organs were removed one by one, flesh and fibers separated, blood vessels and meridians carefully extracted like treasures, and the joints of every bone cautiously severed and removed.
Finally, it was completely hollowed out.
The entire skin was peeled off and stretched taut, blood vessels and meridians were hung up, muscles were cut apart and stored according to their parts and uses, as for the internal organs—they were specifically and separately sent into his "Organ pod".
This could also be considered a characteristic of the Blood Singer.
They constantly use plundered organs and limbs to replace their aging parts, and the "Organ pod" worn on their body is like a spare warehouse, filled with various spare organs, limbs, and living parts for emergencies.
"Sorry to have kept you waiting."
After completing these tasks, the operation was over.
But the creature was not entirely dead; it still retained clear consciousness. Afterwards, it would be implanted with pain to generate the "Desire" most coveted by the Drukhari, and then flow into the market for sale.
In short—absolutely no waste!
"Sorry to have kept you waiting." Verion elegantly picked up a white cloth, wiped the scalpel, turned around and said with a smile, "We meet again, Lord Emrys. May I ask if there's anything you need my help with this time?"
It must be said that purely in terms of visual impact, every Blood Singer could be called a Master of horror, and Verion—was an outstanding one among them.
In just seven days.
Verion had many newly "Sutured" organs and limbs on his body, including a brand new Ork arm, a T'au limb, and several Tyranid Warrior scythe limbs. Even his organ pod had many more "Organs".
"It's a small matter." Emrys nodded without evasion, his gaze falling on him, and said meaningfully, "It's you, however, who has changed greatly since we last met. If I may ask—are all these limbs and organs preparing for something?"
"You observe very carefully, Lord Emrys." Verion's tone was sincere. He scuttled over like a large "crab," relying on the limbs beneath him, and a terrifying smile was forced onto his pale, ghostly face, stitched with multiple pieces of skin.
"Due to my obstruction, the Iron Thorn Conspiracy has grown impatient. They have found people from the Decadent Peak School and plan to forcefully search my territory for your whereabouts."
Iron Thorn Conspiracy? Decadent Peak School?
At first hearing these two names, Emrys paused for half a second before remembering who they were. Then, he narrowed his eyes, unable to lady the meaning in Verion's words.
"So, it's all because of sheltering me that you've provoked them. I'm really sorry—"
Although he said he was sorry, there was no hint of apology in his tone.
"No, no, no, I'm certainly not blaming you."
Verion was also very perceptive and immediately went along with it, smiling, "Even without you, the Decadent Peak School would have come looking for trouble sooner or later, regardless of whether I sheltered you. In human terms—we're in the same boat now, aren't we?"
"You're right."
Emrys responded with a smile, but sneered inwardly, 'Who the hell is in the same boat with you? I am a legitimate Imperial noble, the ruler of a Trader Dynasty!'
Terax, standing by, had vacant eyes.
He didn't like this political environment; he preferred a real fight with real weapons!
It was too troublesome, no wonder others didn't want to come!
He also regretted it a little.
"Speaking of which, Lord Emrys, didn't you say you had something earlier?" After much pretense, Verion got straight to the point.
"Is there anything I can help you with? Just say it, and I will not refuse!"
"It's just a small matter, no rush."
Emrys waved his hand and said, "However, I have a question I'd like to ask you—Lord Verion."
"What question?"
Verion asked, puzzled.
"As the sole bloodline heir of the Durukali family, one of the Ida Imperium's royal families—" Emrys paused deliberately here for a few seconds, then slowly spoke with a hint of interrogation in his voice, "Are you truly content?"
Verion's smile instantly vanished, replaced by an expressionless face, as if a chill flowed from his eyes. He said indifferently, "I don't understand what you mean. The Durukali family has disappeared, literally—completely disappeared."
"Is that so? But I don't think so."
Emrys smiled easily, completely unconcerned by his gloomy expression.
"From a human perspective, a family's bloodline is never evidence of whether a family has perished. Rather, it's whether the family's will and spirit have been inherited and carried forward. Don't you agree, Verion—Lord Durukali?"
Verion's face was extremely grim, and a sinister killing intent flashed in his eyes.
"Emrys, what do you mean by all this?"
"Hahahaha—"
Emrys laughed and said, "My meaning is very simple, which is to give you a grand gift, to let the Durukali family once again become the Master of Gomo, and restore the glory of the Ida Imperium. How do you feel about this grand gift, Lord Verion?"
Verion's pupils contracted sharply, and his breathing quickened!
Restore the glory of the Ida Imperium?!
Let the Durukali family become the Master of Gomo!
It must be said that this "Great gift" Emrys offered him was indeed extremely tempting, subtly reawakening the ambition that had long been dormant within Verion!
"You, what nonsense are you talking about?!"
Verion's expression changed drastically. He forcefully suppressed the fierce, burning ambition that had been ignited deep within him, feigned anger while glaring at Emrys, and said fiercely, "Emrys, I asked for your help and told you my origins, not for you to use that information to manipulate me!"
When a Blood Singer got angry, their blood energy surged like a tsunami!
The terrifying killing intent swept over, causing even Korion's expression to change. He stared coldly and fiercely at Emrys, ready to charge forward without hesitation to show his loyalty the moment his teacher gave the word!
Finally, a fight?!
The Custodian Guard, who felt like he was about to rust, suddenly lit up, gripping his Power Halberd and cracking a savage smile, like a waking beast.
Excellent, just like this!
Why bother talking to these damned xenos? Just cleave them with a halberd, and they'll confess everything!
"You're anxious; it proves you're tempted."
Looking at the "furious" Blood Singer, Emrys remained composed and said calmly, "Lord Verion, a person faces many choices in life, but not every time can they choose correctly. This might be the most important choice of your entire life. Are you sure you won't seriously consider it?"
Verion's pupils were mixed with rage and hesitation. He stared intently at Emrys, full of suspicion and uncertainty, remaining silent.
He really couldn't figure out what trick Emrys was playing!
Although his rationality told him this couldn't be true—how could Emrys, a mere human, help him restore the glory of the Durukali family? And how could he enable him to defeat the numerous Conspiracy Groups and regain control of Gomo?
But, what if?
It was this very thought of "what if" that made Verion hesitate.
"Lord Verion, we have a saying in human common parlance," Emrys said meaningfully. "Opportunities to change one's fate in life are few and far between!"
"Teacher, he is lying to you!" Korion couldn't wait any longer. He already hated Emrys, and now seeing a chance, he was even more unwilling to let him go, so he shouted, exaggerating the threat, "Teacher, don't fall for it!"
Verion glanced at him, feeling slightly displeased.
Was this idiot so eager to climb up and step on others that he didn't mind dying quickly?
Furthermore, even without the reminder, he knew that there was a ninety-nine percent chance that Emrys' words were just dangling a carrot in front of him!
But... this carrot was simply too tempting!
Did he ever think about revitalizing the Durukali Royal family and regaining control of Gomo?
Yes, of course, he did!
He claimed not to care about honor or the Durukali family, but in reality... he didn't dare!
Moreover, Viktor, the ruler of the black Heart Conspiracy Group and the "King of Gomo," was not someone to be trifled with.
Since Viktor took power, anyone who attempted to overthrow his rule had been subjected to horrific and unheard-of extreme punishments!
Therefore, he could only hide his ambition until, eventually, he had almost forgotten it.
But today, when Emrys suddenly brought it up, the flame of ambition that was about to be extinguished was reignited!
"Teacher, what are you still hesitating about?!" Korion grew anxious seeing his silence and couldn't help but urge him, "Teacher, as long as we hand him over to the people of the Iron Thorn Conspiracy, we can get a huge amount of research funds and materials!"
"Ha, Lord Verion, it seems... your disciple is already impatient to make decisions for you."
Emrys glanced at Korion, who was jumping up and down beside them, looking at him with a smirk, as if observing a Joker.
He wasn't worried that Verion would turn hostile; after all... he was a smart man.
Since he was a smart man, he would inevitably think more deeply.
After hearing this, Verion's face suddenly darkened, and his already terrifying eyes were filled with chilling killing intent.
"Korion, my good apprentice, when did you... connect with the people of the Iron Thorn Conspiracy?"
Korion's expression changed abruptly. Only then did he realize that he had spoken wrongly due to his impatience!
The next moment, he turned and ran without hesitation, showing no reluctance whatsoever.
"Trying to leave?!" Verion's gloomy, sharp laughter, wrapped in a thread of coldness, echoed in the laboratory. "My good apprentice, where do you plan to run?!"
As he spoke, the rusty iron door in front of Korion suddenly slammed shut, as if it were a "Living thing"!
Not only that, but even the walls seemed to "come alive." Grotesque faces protruded from the walls, like fiends from the Netherworld Hell, emitting terrifying shrieks and extending countless arms to grab the terrified Korion.
"Ah, no... no, get away!"
Korion tried to break free, but although the arms extending from the walls looked slender, every single one had undergone special modification.
He was immediately seized by the arms and slammed hard against the wall, half of his body seeming to "Melt" into it.
"Te-Teacher...
"
He wanted to struggle and beg for mercy, but his mouth was sewn shut by flying needle and thread!
After doing all this, Verion's gloomy gaze scrutinized the indifferent Emrys.
"You don't seem scared? You should know, this is my laboratory, the laboratory of a Blood Singer, which means... this place is completely under my control!"
The walls, floor, and ceiling of the entire laboratory transformed into twisted, squirming flesh!
Modified Auk Orks, Space Marines, and even many terrifying creatures Emrys had never seen before, all struggled to emerge from the flesh, their tyrannical and bloodthirsty eyes fixed on him, viscous liquid dripping from their mouths.
Terax's eyes were filled with excitement; his Power Halberd was already glowing, and his surging battle intent was almost impossible to suppress.
Good, now we should finally be getting physical, right?!
Unfortunately, Emrys gave him a look, stopping Terax, before turning back to Verion, smiling silently.
Time seemed to have frozen.
Even though blood energy, tyranny, and killing intent enveloped them, Emrys showed no sign of fear, and eventually, Verion gave up.
The flesh walls retreated, and the laboratory lights brightened again.
Verion's face was as gloomy as water. He stared at Emrys, saying word by word, "How do you prove that what you said is true?"
"I cannot prove it. Whether you believe it or not is up to you."
Emrys' lips curved slightly upward. The moment Verion relented, he had already lost.
Sure enough, Verion's expression grew even uglier, and killing intent surged in his eyes.
"Are you toying with me?!"
"No, no, no, of course not."
Emrys chuckled, then suddenly adopted a serious expression and said, "I said I'm just giving you an opportunity... as for whether you can achieve it, that depends on you. I can only provide a little help when necessary."
"What kind of help?"
Verion asked.
"Naturally, the one thing you lack most... power!"
Emrys narrowed his eyes, his voice highly seductive.
"If you want the Durukali family to regain control of Gomo, you will inevitably need to stage a 'coup,' and a coup... requires military force."
Verion also narrowed his eyes, seeming to have gained interest.
"Humbly, I can offer you assistance in this regard."
Emrys cleared his throat and smiled. "As you know, I am a Rogue Trader, and I happen to be quite good at networking. For instance, the Dark Angels Chapter, the Ultramarines Chapter, the Blood Angels Chapter,"
"Astra Militarum Admirals, the Martian Machine cult, the Dark Mechanicus, Chaos Space Marine Warbands, Necron Tomb Lords, Orks Warbosses—I have quite the relationship with all of them."
"Of course, provided you can afford the price... figures like Primarchs and Daemon Princes, I can also help you get in touch with them."
"?"
Verion slowly typed out a question mark.
Who exactly was this guy? Was he really just a... Rogue Trader?
Verion had ample reason to suspect that Emrys was bragging.
Primarch? Daemon Prince?
It's not that we don't believe you, but the crucial question is... if you're really that powerful, why would the Conspiracy Group be hunting you everywhere?
The old Blood Singer was silent for a long time, scrutinizing Emrys, who had just made such a boast. His eyelids twitched a few times, and he let out a heavy sigh.
"Setting aside whether you can call so many people, have you considered one problem?"
Emrys adopted a listening posture.
"First, this is Gomo, the gathering place of the Drukhari."
Verion raised a finger and said in a deep voice.
"Although Viktor has fallen now, and the various Conspiracy Groups are vying for power, don't forget... ultimately, this is still our internal problem. Once I introduce the forces of humanity into it, what do you think will happen?"
"Naturally... we would be besieged."
Emrys said with a smile, expressing his concern.
"All Conspiracy Groups, Witch Covens, and even Trueborn will unhesitatingly put aside their prejudices against each other and unite against the outside, first eliminating this 'Eldar traitor'."
In daily life, the Drukhari seem to fight fiercely among themselves, but this is ultimately an internal matter.
Just like the Imperium of Man, if outsiders get involved, it's a completely different story!
"Exactly. So, the second problem." Verion sneered and said.
"Even if I really do as you say and don't care about being labeled a traitor, do you think that even if humanity can locate Gomo, they can definitely defeat the Drukhari?"
"Hmm" Emrys was silent for a moment, then tilted his head to look at him.
"Otherwise?"
"Hmph, you are too naive."
Verion continued to sneer, not hiding the disdain in his eyes.
"Even if the Ida Imperium has weakened and fragmented, we are, after all, the former overlords who ruled the galaxy. I can tell you clearly that even if the Imperium of Man locates Gomo and attacks with all its might, Gomo can drag the entire Imperium of Man down with it before it dies!"
"Yes, you're right. I don't doubt that the Drukhari can do that."
Emrys nodded quite sincerely, agreeing with his point.
As the saying goes, a starved camel is still bigger than a horse, and it is indeed true. If Gomo truly goes mad, who knows if there are any unknown black technologies left over from the Ida Imperium?
In fact, looking at the major factions in warhammer, most of them have this confidence, except for the Tau.
Whether it's the Drukhari, the Craftworld Eldar, or the Necrons, Orks, Tyranids, Imperium of Man, or Chaos Space Marines, attempting to completely destroy a certain faction would inevitably result in mutual annihilation.
Seeing his consistent expression of 'I know, I understand, I get it,' Verion became furious.
"Since you know all this, you still want me to do it?!" The Blood Singer's eyes showed a fierce glint.
"Emrys, do you think I'm really afraid of you? This is Gomo, you'd best not push me, otherwise... I promise, even with divine protection, you won't be able to leave here!"
"Don't be so agitated, old man."
Emrys remained calm and composed, as if he hadn't taken his threat to heart at all, and waved his hand indifferently.
"I am giving you advice very seriously. Even if we're going to fall out, you should at least wait for me to finish speaking, shouldn't you?"
Verion's expression improved slightly, but his tone remained stiff.
"What is it?"
"Listen to me boast...Pooh, analyze!"
Emrys cleared his throat, then began to describe his conceptual blueprint to the Blood Singer.
"Directly involving the Imperium of Man in your struggle is clearly not feasible; of course, I know we would be besieged. But what if... I mean, what if, in the early stages of the struggle, we don't rely on the power of the Imperium of Man, but rather on Gomo itself, that is, the power of the Drukhari?"
Verion's mind couldn't quite keep up; he didn't fully understand what he meant.
"I don't understand, explain it more clearly!"
"It's like this. Let me ask you something first."
Emrys continued.
"In Gomo, who is the class that occupies most of the resources?"
"The Conspiracy Group?" Verion frowned.
"No, it should be the Trueborn."
Trueborn, in the dark Gomo, hold absolute power and status, equivalent to the nobles of the Imperium of Man.
They are naturally born Drukhari, possessing supreme status from birth.
And because of their pure bloodline, they possess unparalleled talent, joining various Conspiracy Groups and enjoying high treatment within Gomo.
"Indeed, so here's the problem" Emrys' voice suddenly lowered, containing a slight, unsettling tone, and he said.
"The Trueborn, who enjoy absolute power, status, and treatment, occupy most of Gomo's resources. So, how many of these Trueborn... account for the total population of Gomo, this massive port city?"
This question made Verion fall silent. He roughly calculated and said casually.
"Very few, right? 15%? 20%?"
"Then, may I ask, who makes up the remaining 80% of the population?"
Emrys smiled as if revealing his true intentions.
"6"
...Slaves, Half-breeds." Verion hadn't reacted yet, and subconsciously said.
"Is there a problem with that?"
"That is precisely the problem." Emrys said calmly.
"The Trueborn, who make up a tiny fraction of the population, possess the vast majority of Gomo's resources, being at the very top of Gomo from birth, able to wantonly squander and waste these resources. Meanwhile, the Slaves and Half-breeds, who constitute the majority of the population, can only scramble for the pitifully small portion of resources condescendingly granted by the upper class."
"So what? What exactly are you trying to say?"
Verion's tone became a bit impatient.
"It's perfectly normal for Trueborn to be born naturally, as descendants of the Ida Imperium with pure bloodlines, enjoying transcendent status and resources, isn't it? As for those lowly Slaves and Half-breeds, it's already our mercy that they are alive. Is there a problem with that?"
"Yes, you're right."
Emrys nodded in agreement, with a hint of teasing in his tone, saying.
"The Trueborn are of noble status, and honorable, because they are pure-blooded inheritors, with talent and ability. But... are those Slaves and Half-breeds truly useless?"
"Heh, I understand what you mean now."
After such a long detour, Verion finally understood the meaning of Emrys' words.
He sneered.
"Human, your idea is very good, but unfortunately... it's too naive. Slaves and Half-breeds, they are born to be tools for the Trueborn. You want to use them? That's impossible."
"Is that so?"
Emrys also smiled, saying meaningfully.
"Do you know? I greatly admire an ancient sage of Terra. He once said this: 'Where there is oppression, there is resistance.'"