The Primarch of Liberty

Chapter 46: Knight World Austeria Extremis



The Stormbird's engines hummed with barely contained power as it cut through the turbulent atmosphere of Austeria Extremis. Inside the craft's spacious hold, Franklin Valorian stood tall, his imposing figure dwarfing even his genetically enhanced sons. The Primarch's eyes gleamed with excitement, a stark contrast to the grim determination etched on the faces of his companions.

Sovereign's disembodied voice filled the cabin, "Primarch, I've taken the liberty of designating this world 'Austeria Extremis.' My analysis indicates that if this planet is not reunited with the Imperium within 100 years, it will be consumed by Chaos."

Franklin nodded, his expression turning serious for a moment. "Understood, Sovereign. We'll just have to make sure that doesn't happen, won't we?" His trademark grin returned as he turned to his companions. "Gentlemen, let's talk about what we're walking into."

John Ezra, the ever-vigilant Head of the Secret Service, was the first to respond. "My lord, our advance teams have already secured the perimeter. We're in a bit of a standoff with the local PDF, but nothing we can't handle."

"Excellent work, John," Franklin approved. "Always two steps ahead, aren't you?"

Vladimir Mendelev, the Chief Librarian, cleared his throat. When he spoke, his thick ancient Russian accent filled the cabin. "Comrade Primarch, Techno-seers already analyzing plague afflicting peasantry. We can confirm, it is indeed work of... how you say... 'Papa Pimple', da?" Franklin burst into laughter. "Papa Pimple? Vova my boy, I approve of the code-switching. Keeps things interesting."

Vladimir grinned, his stern features softening for a moment. "Ah, you caught me, father. I thought perhaps your continental High Command could use some... variety, da?"

"Da indeed," Franklin chuckled, giving Vladimir a thumbs up. "Keep it coming, Vova. I like a little spice in my war councils."

Steven Armstrong, puffing on his ever-present cigar, snorted. "Knights and chivalry. Old as shit, if you ask me. The only thing honor's gonna get these folks is an honorable death." Denzel Washington, interjected. "There's nothing wrong with honor, Steven. But when your life's on the line, it's often the first thing to go. Honor's for the living, like the ancient Terran samurai Musashi taught us through his duels."

Franklin nodded approvingly. "Well said, Denzel. And it's precisely why we're here - to make sure these people stay alive long enough to keep their honor." He paused, his gaze drifting to the viewing port. "You know, it's fascinating. These Knight Walkers, they're not so different from what we use back in the Cluster."

The others turned to look at him, intrigued. Franklin continued, "Back home, we use similar tech for everything from cutting trees to mining operations. Hell, we even used them to fight off Xenos incursions. These days, they're mostly construction mechs. We've gotten too efficient at colonizing for Knight Houses to form naturally."

As if on cue, the Stormbird passed over a battlefield. Through the viewing ports, they could see the Peasantry Defense Forces engaged in combat with Chaos-tainted beasts. Las-gun fire crisscrossed the field, while artillery pieces boomed in the distance. Knight Walkers strode ahead, their massive weapons bringing down monstrous creatures. As they watched, one Knight beheaded a massive two-headed crocodile with a single swing of its chainsword. "Now that's what I call pest control," Armstrong quipped, tapping ash from his cigar. "Sovereign," Franklin called out, "give us a rundown on what we're seeing."

The AI's voice returned, crisp and precise. "Certainly, Primarch. You're currently observing a defensive action by the forces of Austeria Extremis against Chaos-tainted fauna. The planet's proximity to the Eye of Terror has resulted in the mutation of local wildlife into grotesque, oversized versions of their original forms. Current combat data suggests these creatures possess enhanced strength, resilience, and in some cases, limited Warp abilities." "Fascinating," Franklin mused. "And terrifying. No wonder they're having such a hard time." "Indeed, Primarch," Sovereign continued. "The planet's Knight complement has been reduced to approximately 400 operational units, down from an estimated 1,000 before the increased Chaos incursions. The populace is now forced to engage these beasts in melee combat when Knights are unavailable, leading to significant casualties."

Denzel frowned. "That's a substantial loss of military power. How are they managing repairs and replacements?"

"They are not, Captain Washington," Sovereign replied. "Resource scarcity and technological regression have made it nearly impossible for them to manufacture new Knights or conduct major repairs. This is compounded by the recent outbreak of a Nurgle-aligned plague, which is affecting both the human population and the local fauna."

"Bozhe moy," Vladimir muttered. "It is worse than we thought."

Franklin's expression hardened. "All the more reason for us to be here. These people need our help, and by the Emperor, we're going to give it to them."

The Stormbird began its final descent, aiming for a large square within a sprawling castle complex. John Ezra tensed visibly. "My lord, I must insist on conducting a final security sweep before you disembark."

Franklin clapped him on the shoulder. "Always the worrier, John. But that's why you're the best at what you do. Go ahead, but try not to ruffle too many feathers. We're here to make friends, after all."

As John nodded and moved to confer with his team, Franklin turned to the others. "Alright, gentlemen. Let's review our objectives. First and foremost, we need to establish a rapport with the local Knight Houses. Denzel you're with me"

Denzel nodded solemnly. "Understood, my lord. I'll do my best to bridge any cultural gaps." "Good man," Franklin approved. "Steven, I want you to assess their military capabilities. Find out what they need most urgently and how we can bolster their defenses." Armstrong grinned around his cigar. "You got it, boss. I'll whip these medieval boys into shape in no time."

"Just remember, we're here to help, not to mock," Franklin warned, though his eyes twinkled with amusement. "Vladimir, you and your Techno-seers will be our ace in the hole. I need you to dig deep into this Nurgle plague. Find its source, find a cure if you can, and for Emperor's sake, keep it contained."

Vladimir saluted, his face grim. "Da, Comrade Primarch. We will not rest until this foul corruption is purged."

"I know you won't," Franklin said softly. Then, raising his voice, he addressed them all. "Remember, gentlemen. These people have been fighting a losing battle against Chaos for who knows how long. They're tired, they're scared, and they're running out of options. We're not just here to save them; we're here to give them hope. Show them what the Imperium of Man can do when it puts its mind to it."

The Stormbird touched down with a gentle thud. Through the viewports, they could see a delegation waiting in the square, their faces a mix of awe, fear, and desperate hope.

John Ezra returned, nodding to Franklin. "All clear, my lord. The area is secure." Franklin took a deep breath, squaring his shoulders. "Well then, gentlemen. Shall we go make some new friends?"

King Robert Thorndike stood atop the highest tower of Castle Thorndike, his weathered hands gripping the cold stone battlements. The weight of his crown, a relic from a forgotten age of prosperity, seemed heavier than ever. His eyes, once bright with the vigor of youth, now carried the weariness of a man who had seen his world slowly crumbling around him. The skies of Austeria - or Austerea, as it was known in the local tongue - were dark and foreboding, as they had been for as long as anyone could remember. The constant threat of Warp storms loomed on the horizon, a reminder of their precarious existence so close to that gaping maw above. Robert's mind wandered to the challenges that had plagued his reign. How long can we hold out? he wondered, not for the first time. The once-mighty force of 1,500 Knight Walkers, a legacy of Austeria's colonization during the Golden Age of Man, had been whittled down to a mere 400. The King's jaw clenched as he recalled the latest reports: another village lost, another Knight fallen in battle against a beast that should not be. The decline was as undeniable as it was terrifying. Each loss was a blow not just to their defenses, but to their very identity as a Knight World.

The Warp-tainted beasts that roamed the wilderness grew stronger with each passing year. What were once manageable threats had become monstrosities that could challenge even the mightiest of Knights. Robert's mind flashed to reports of two-headed crocodiles large enough to swallow a Grox whole, and packs of Warp-touched dingoes that could coordinate attacks with an almost human intelligence.

And now, this plague... Robert shuddered. It defied all known medical knowledge, corrupting both flesh and spirit. He had seen strong men and women reduced to gibbering wrecks, their bodies twisted by unnatural growths. The whispers in his mind grew louder, promising relief,

promising power...

As if summoned by his grim thoughts, the whispers came again. Soft, insidious, they crept into the corners of his mind like a foul mist.

Why resist, child? the voice crooned. Embrace the gifts of the Grandfather. Let your people know peace in decay, find strength in corruption.

Robert shook his head violently, as if the physical action could dislodge the Warp-born temptation. "I am no child," he growled to the empty air. "And I know well the price of such

'gifts'."

He knew the source of these whispers - his ancestors had warned about the dangers of the warp, the whispers called it Grandfather Nurgle. He may not understand the intricacies of the Warp, but he knew enough to recognize its corrupting influence.

"I will not give in," he muttered to himself, a mantra he had repeated countless times. "For the sake of my people, for the legacy of House Thorndike, I will endure."

But for how long? The rational part of Robert's mind, the part trained in logistics and strategy since childhood, knew the harsh truth. At their current rate of attrition, Austeria had perhaps 100 to 150 years left before it would fall to the Warp. The thought filled him with a deep,

aching sorrow.

He thought of the lesser houses - Macquarie with their hit-and-run tactics against the larger beasts, Wollemi desperately protecting the last remaining forests and agricultural lands. They looked to House Thorndike for leadership, for hope. How could he tell them that their

doom was all but certain?

Robert's gaze drifted to the sprawling castle below, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of his people, made from adamantium and ancient alloys, materials from man's golden age. House Thorndike had been a corporation before their isolation, pioneers in both industry and warfare. The memory of that glorious past only made their current struggles more painful, Millenia had passed all he knew was from the data-slates his ancestors had left.

A sudden commotion broke through his gloomy reverie. Gasps of awe echoed through the castle halls, loud enough to reach even his lofty perch. Robert's eyes snapped to the horizon, following the gaze of his astonished subjects.

And there, cutting through the perpetual gloom of Austeria's skies, was a sight that took his breath away. A fleet of voidships, sleek and powerful, their designs reminiscent of the legendary vessels from the Golden Age of Humanity. They moved with a grace that belied their size, taking up positions in low orbit with practiced ease. Robert's heart began to race, a feeling he hadn't experienced in years beginning to bloom in his chest. Could it be? After millennia of isolation, had humanity truly returned to the stars? The ships were unlike anything in Austeria's ancient records. They spoke of technological mastery far beyond what his world had maintained. Robert's mind reeled at the implications. A force capable of producing such marvels, of crossing the treacherous void between stars, could surely help them. They could turn the tide against the Warp-tainted beasts, find a cure for the plague, perhaps even restore their lost Knight Walkers.

In that moment, Robert Thorndike cared not who these newcomers might be. Angel or demon, conqueror or liberator - it mattered not. They represented power, technology, a link to the wider galaxy that Austeria had lost so long ago. Whatever their intentions, they

brought with them the possibility of survival.

"We're saved," he whispered, the words catching in his throat. Then louder, "We're saved!"

The cry was taken up by those below, spreading through the castle like wildfire. Robert could hear the hope in their voices, the same hope that was now surging through his own veins.

As he watched the magnificent fleet, Robert's mind raced with possibilities. The connection to the vast empire of humanity, lost for so long, was about to be reestablished. Whatever changes had occurred in the galaxy during their isolation, whatever challenges these newcomers might bring, they were insignificant compared to the alternative - the slow, inexorable fall to the Warp.

Robert straightened, feeling the weight of his crown lessen for the first time in years. He was

still King of Austeria, High Lord of House Thorndike, and he had a duty to his people. There would be negotiations to handle, diplomacy to navigate. But for now, for this moment, he felt something he had almost forgotten - hope.

"Humanity has returned to the stars," he said to himself, a smile breaking across his

careworn features. "And with it, our salvation."

"Prepare a welcome," he barked to his stunned courtiers. "Summon the Knights, alert the other Houses. We must present a united front."

As his court scrambled to obey, Robert reflected inwardly. The voices that had plagued him were silent now, banished by the awesome sight above. Whatever trials lay ahead, whatever price these newcomers might demand, Robert knew one thing with unshakable certainty:

Austeria had a future. And he, Robert Thorndike, would ensure that his people lived to see it.

With a deep breath, the King of Austeria turned from the balcony and strode purposefully into his castle. Salvation had arrived.

King Robert Thorndike stood in awe as he made his way down to the square, his eyes wide

with wonder and a hint of trepidation. The scene unfolding before him was unlike anything he

had ever witnessed in all his years ruling Austeria.

By the Ancestors, what manner of men are these? he thought, his gaze fixed on the towering

figures that now occupied his castle grounds.

The first thing that struck him was their sheer size. Even the smallest among them stood at

least 6.5 feet tall, dwarfing most of his subjects and even himself. Their faces were hidden

behind advanced helmets, adding an air of mystery and otherworldliness to their already imposing presence.

Their armor... it's unlike anything in our armories. Robert marveled at the deep blue of their suits, the red pauldrons adorned with white stars, and the majestic two-headed golden eagle emblazoned on their chests. It spoke of a level of craftsmanship and technology far beyond anything Austeria had possessed even in its glory days.

Robert watched, slack-jawed, as these giants scaled the castle walls with inhuman ease. Some

even used what appeared to be jet packs to reach the highest towers. His knights, men he had always considered the pinnacle of human capability, were rendered obsolete in seconds. They move like no mortal men I've ever seen, he marveled. Is this what humanity has become beyond

our isolated world?

A commotion to his left caught his attention. One of these armored warriors had lifted a fully

armored knight with one hand, as easily as Robert might lift a goblet. Another pushed aside a tractor, clearing space in the square with casual displays of superhuman strength. Such strength... it's almost inhuman..., Robert thought, a mixture of awe and fear coursing

through him.

In what seemed like mere moments, the square was cleared for a 500-meter radius. Robert

and his retinue found themselves halted by two of these strange armored men, who instructed them to wait.

He sensed one of his knights bristling at the command, ready to object, but Robert quickly

waved him down. No, we must not antagonize them. Whatever - whoever - they are, they are clearly our superiors in strength and skill.

The air suddenly filled with the roar of engines, and Robert's eyes were drawn to the sky. A massive craft, which he would later learn was called a Stormbird, descended from the heavens. Its size and design spoke of technology long lost to Austeria, rekindling memories of the ancient stories about humanity's golden age.

This must be their leader, Robert realized, his heart pounding with anticipation.

As the Stormbird's ramp lowered, Robert's breath caught in his throat. The beings that

emerged were even more impressive than those who had preceded them.

First came an 8-foot giant, encased in armor that seemed more akin to a mech-suit than anything Robert had ever seen. This one moved with the practiced ease of a seasoned commander, scanning the area and issuing silent commands to those around him. A raven, Robert thought suddenly, though he couldn't say why. Watchful, intelligent, always

assessing.

They make our best knights look like fumbling squires, Robert thought, a pang of both admiration and despair running through him.

Next emerged a truly massive figure, easily 10 feet tall. This one bore no helmet, revealing aNôv(el)B\\jnn

stern, weathered face. A cigar clenched between his teeth gave him an air of nonchalance that

belied the obvious danger he presented. Robert watched as his own knights, brave men all, took involuntary steps backward.

A hawk, his mind supplied. Fierce, proud, a bird of war.

Robert turned to his men and thought, I don't blame them, Robert mused, feeling his own knees weaken slightly. That one looks like he could tear down the castle walls with his bare hands. As the giants took their positions, Robert's mind began to work in an unexpected direction.

Something about these beings, their bearing and the way they carried themselves, reminded him of birds of prey.

His thoughts were interrupted as another giant descended the ramp. This one removed his

helmet, revealing skin as dark as the richest charcoal. Twin swords hung at his waist, and his bearing was noble and composed.

A dove, Robert thought, surprising himself with the comparison. Peaceful, yet no less deadly for

it.

And then... then came him.

Robert's breath left him entirely as he beheld the final figure to emerge from the Stormbird. Standing a full 15 feet tall, the giant dwarfed even his impressive companions. But it wasn't just his size that commanded attention. There was an aura about him, a presence that seemed

to fill the entire square. His face bore a perpetual smirk, not one of arrogance but of absolute

confidence and assuredness.

The moment Robert's eyes met that ever-smirking visage, he felt something he hadn't

experienced in years: hope. Pure, unadulterated hope.

An eagle, he thought, the realization hitting him with the force of a thunderbolt. Lord of the

skies, symbol of freedom and power.

There was something about this giant that radiated confidence, assuredness, and above all, a sense that everything would be alright. Despite the obvious power difference, despite the potential threat these beings could pose, Robert felt... comforted.

The Eagle's presence seemed to fill the square, overshadowing even his impressive companions. Robert found himself drawn to that charismatic smile, feeling as though he were basking in the light of a sun after years of darkness.

Is this what it means to stand in the presence of greatness? he wondered. For a moment, all of Austeria's troubles seemed to fade away. The constant battles against Warp-tainted beasts, the dwindling numbers of their Knights, the insidious plague that had begun to spread - all of it seemed manageable in the face of this being's assured confidence.

With him, we might actually survive, Robert thought, hope blooming in his chest. More than survive - we might thrive once again.

As the Eagle began to move towards him, Robert straightened his posture. Whatever was about to happen, he knew it would change the fate of his world forever. Gone was the weariness that had plagued him for years. In its place was a burning curiosity and a fierce determination.

These

men, these giants among us - they are the key to our salvation, he realized. And this one, this Eagle - he is their leader.

Robert Thorndike, King of Austeria, High Lord of House Thorndike, took a deep breath. He

was about to parley with a being of legend, a leader of men who were more than men. The fate

of his people, of his entire world, would hinge on this interaction.

But as he met those confident eyes once more, Robert felt his fears melt away. Whatever

challenges lay ahead, whatever changes these newcomers might bring, he knew one thing with absolute certainty:

The Eagle had come. And with him, the promise of freedom soared.