Looking at the Lictor that had been thermite-blasted to death in front of him, and listening to Ventris recount the investigation results, Magos Gamma sighed, "Courage is the anthem of humanity."
"Yes, even when we faced the Lictor, it felt very tricky. They are truly remarkable."
After saying this, the two fell silent, mourning the fallen heroes. After a while, Magos Gamma spoke again, "Does Chapter Master Calgar want me to do something?"
"The Mechanical Hound played a huge role in this battle. If it hadn't detected anomalies, forcing the trailing Lictor out with the Astra Militarum's reconnaissance fire, the patrol would never have discovered the Tyranid."
"However, ordinary Mechanical Hounds are not enough to detect the monsters the Tyranid specifically created for stealth assassination. We retrieved the data from the machine spirit of the Mechanical Hound that ran back to transmit intelligence, and found that it only issued a warning during patrol because it detected an unusual sound, which was probably caused by the Lictor accidentally stepping on a dry branch on the ground."
"The Hound did not detect it until the Lictor thought it was exposed and launched an attack."
Magos Gamma nodded and said, "Although the Mechanical Hound's detection system is far superior to ordinary humans, it is only an imitation of canines. I understand, you want me to upgrade the detection system of some Mechanical Hounds, right?"
"Yes, the Lictor are the vanguard of the Tyranid. They will arrive at Kosa before the Gorgon Hive Fleet to destroy and gather intelligence. We must find and eliminate them as soon as possible."
Magos Gamma noticed that Ventris's expression and tone when he said this carried a hint of insincerity. He immediately realized that Ventris didn't want to upgrade the Mechanical Hounds; he wanted Xiaotian. So, rolling his eyes, he sarcastically said, "Upgrading the Hounds is time-consuming and laborious. Even after upgrading, they are far inferior to Xiaotian. Why not just use Xiaotian directly?"
The Ultramarines Captain's face lit up, and he was about to say yes, but he looked down at Magos Gamma's expression and knew that the cunning little Tech-Priest had seen through his wisdom. He could only awkwardly force a smile.
"Shouldn't you be focusing on how to deal with Gorgon, instead of always trying to scheme against me!" Magos Gamma complained to Ventris.
It's because you sell them too expensively! Otherwise, would I be like this?! Ventris grumbled internally, but said, "The Chapter is already fighting because of your mecha. I have no choice."
"Ah? How did they start fighting?"
"The Chapter Master fought all of us—"
—What did you do?
"We just wanted to sell some old artifacts, not a flagship. Who would have thought the Chapter Master would get so angry—" Ventris said, rubbing his still-sore waist.
Blue Daddy beating up prodigal sons?! Magos Gamma shook his head, clearing the absurd image from his mind, and after a moment of contemplation, he said,
"This Lictor will count as two Xiaotian for you, and I'll lend you another hundred, but only lend!"
"Alright! I won't say any words of gratitude, that's too polite."
Heh, does Magos Lauster think it's that easy to take advantage of me? First, I'll let you have a taste. Once you get used to them and develop feelings, then... hehe, I hope you won't be sad or heartbroken when you see Magos Lauster wave his hand, and the Xiaotian, which was intimately with you a moment ago, abandons you the next. Chapter Master Calgar, don't blame me, you made the first move! The little Tech-Priest, more insidious than before, thought with a playful expression.
The appearance of Xiaotian caused quite a stir among humans, especially after Xiaotian was assigned to several important locations. Without any human assistance, it managed to hunt down several Lictor that had been lurking, which completely changed the attitude of those who initially thought Xiaotian was just an upgraded Mechanical Hound.
After Dorn's Hammer and the Ascetics learned that it was the work of Magos Gamma, they immediately brought gifts to Magos Gamma, with no other intention than to foster good relations.
The black-hearted little Tech-Priest considered himself sentimental. With a grand wave of his hand, he also lent fifty units to each of the two Chapters and told them that it wasn't because he was stingy. They were all old friends of Magos Gamma, and everyone knew he was always generous and practiced small profits but quick turnover in business. It was just that the cost of Xiaotian was truly "high," and he had no choice. He couldn't possibly sell the Gear Fleet to subsidize everyone, could he?
The two Chapter Masters immediately stated: lending is kindness, not lending is duty, and they understood the principle of getting what you pay for!
Later, Abbess Selina also brought other sisters from the Sisterhood to Magos Gamma, implying that they were helpless women, but men were unreliable, and they lacked reliable "big guys" by their side, hoping that Magos Gamma would be accommodating.
Magos Gamma stated that the Ecclesiarchy and the Adeptus Mechanicus are jointly referred to as the Imperium—uh—cough—friendly religions to each other, and that he, Magos Gamma, would definitely help with this! He then waved his hand again. After that, high-ranking generals of the Astra Militarum also sought out Magos Gamma, but unfortunately, Magos Gamma was in "closed-door research" and could not meet them.
They would have to wait until Magos Gamma came out of seclusion to visit again.
The "secluded" little Tech-Priest spat at the backs of the disappointed Astra Militarum generals and said,
"Heh, a bunch of paupers relying on the Far East Command for supplies. Do you have secret Chapter relics, or do you have the Ecclesiarchy backing you up? Are you addicted to taking advantage of the Magos? Do you even need Xiaotian? This Magos still has your IOUs! Bah!"
The appearance of Xiaotian also sparked a retro movement. The Ultramarines and Battle Sisters all began to diligently practice riding. They had no choice; if they didn't practice, they would be carried in its mouth, which was too humiliating.
While everyone was busy clearing out the Lictor, Magos Gamma was having the time of his life, immersed in a group of medical sister-nurses, losing himself in their praises of "Magos Magos Gamma, you're amazing."
After Calgar arrived, Magos Gamma sought him and the Grand Inquisitor, and solemnly recommended his "detoxification" preparation for Gorgon. Calgar and the Grand Inquisitor were overjoyed upon learning of the detoxification's capabilities. With this equipment, it was equivalent to removing Gorgon's fangs. But just as the three of them were about to raise their glasses in celebration, a problem caused them to collectively break down.
The military doctors in the Astra Militarum were field surgeons provided by the Departmento Munitorum. These quacks, who only knew how to stop bleeding, disinfect, and amputate, many of whom were self-taught on the battlefield, had never seen, let alone knew how to use, high-end equipment like the detoxification device.
As for training, it wasn't impossible, but time was short. No one could train these quacks into proper doctors proficient in internal and external medicine and toxicology in just a few months.
Furthermore, to maximize the effectiveness of the detoxification device, the database within the detoxification medical instrument needed to be updated in real-time according to Gorgon's changes. Without a professional medical team or Tech-priest specializing in biology, this was simply impossible.
Just as Magos Gamma, Calgar, and Gayss were racking their brains for a solution, with Magos Gamma even considering whether to resort to brainwashing, a ship full of medical sisters arrived to provide support, which solved their immediate problem.
Medical Sisters are a non-military force within the Sisterhood, specializing in providing treatment and medical services to all citizens of the Imperium of Man.
These medical sister-nurses, known by the Imperial populace as "the Emperor's Merciful Angels," are highly skilled in medicine and proficient in genetics and anatomy. The detoxification device could only function as intended in their hands.
(Medical Sisters)
Magos Lauster, who had already revealed his true form while immersed in "archaeology," did not yet know that the "heretics" were about to conquer the Omnissiah's offspring. Otherwise, he would surely have used the cruelest methods to show these "evil spirits who bring disaster to the gods and religion" what cruelty meant, and incidentally, establish a strict daily routine for the Omnissiah's offspring!
Fortunately, someone timely pulled Magos Gamma out of his "debauchery." It turned out that with the cooperation of Xiaotian, the Lictor sent by the Tyranid were found one by one, and the gloom that hung over people's hearts was dispelled by Xiaotian's roars. However, this situation only applied to the human defense zone. The Tau's defense zone was already in a state of panic due to the Lictor's assassinations and sabotage. After learning about the situation in the human defense zone, they immediately sought out Magos Gamma, wanting to purchase Xiaotian.
"Ambassador Zechuan, I cannot agree to this request. It's not that I don't want to, but I can't. Otherwise, neither the Imperium nor the Adeptus Mechanicus will have a place for me," Magos Gamma said to the Water Caste Ambassador sitting opposite him.
Zechuan smiled bitterly and said, "I know I'm putting Magos Magos Gamma in a difficult position, but those Lictor are too troublesome. Even when discovered, they hide in important locations like armories. We either directly blow up the place or send soldiers to engage them in close-quarters combat in complex environments."
"You mean they intentionally lure you into destroying important locations yourselves?"
"Yes, if it were only once or twice, it wouldn't mean anything, but it happens every time, which can only mean they are doing it intentionally."
"The Tyranid' cunning is truly a bit beyond imagination," Magos Gamma said, his brows furrowed. He didn't want to lose strength when Gorgon was about to arrive. After weighing for a while, he spoke again,
"Ambassador, this matter is no longer something you and I can discuss and decide on. It requires the high command of the coalition forces to resolve it."
After pondering for a moment, Zechuan said, "Magos Magos Gamma, you are right. Even if I were in your position, I could only do the same."
I'll believe you when pigs fly! Cunning xenos, if you really thought that, you shouldn't have come directly to me. Although Magos Gamma thought this, what he said was,
"Thank you, Ambassador, for understanding."
After the Water Caste Ambassador left, the Tau's supreme commander, Shadowsun, quickly sought out Calgar. Magos Gamma didn't know how they discussed it,
The final result was to ask Magos Gamma to bring a group of Xiaotian and Ultramarines warriors to help the Tau clear out the Lictor in their defense zone.
Sending Magos Gamma to the Tau's defense zone was Calgar's last resort. He feared both that the Lictor would cause too much damage to the Tau, thus affecting the plan, and that the Tau would plagiarize Xiaotian's technology.
But his own Technical Sergeant was uncooperative; whenever Calgar asked, he would say it was too high-end and he didn't understand it. Sending other high-ranking Tech-priest would be like throwing meat to a wolf. This was their Macragge people's technology; other Tech-priest wanting it for free was a pipe dream!
Finally, with no other choice, he had to bring out Magos Gamma, this great deity. Only he, the creator, could guarantee foolproof results. But what Calgar didn't know was that after Magos Gamma received his request, his eyes lit up as if electrified, spinning so fast they almost sparked, clearly indicating he had his own plans.
And so, Gamma once again set foot on Tau territory. This time, it was a military stronghold. It was also his first time meeting a human traitor, Governor. The Tau wanted to use this display of how well humans lived among them, how they could be trusted and given important positions, to win Gamma's favor and subtly influence him.
Fortunately, Gamma, with his 'unwavering loyalty,' remained unmoved, even finding it a little amusing. This method was less effective than simply giving him a ship full of rare minerals. The Tau still failed to see through the disguise of 'Gentleman Sword Gamma.'
The first task the Ultramarines helped the Tau with was to eliminate the Lictor that had already been discovered hiding in the armory and energy facilities. Accompanied by Fire Caste warriors and auxiliary mercenary troops, a combat team of five Space Marine and one Howling Celestial entered the location where the Lictor was hidden.
"Fang of Destruction, show these xenos what you can do!"
The Ultramarine patted the 'Fang of Destruction' beside him, completely unconcerned whether the nearby Tau understood the derogatory meaning in his words.
"Woof!"
Receiving the command, the 'Fang of Destruction' raised its head and emitted a hissing sound, the sound of air being rapidly drawn into its metallic nasal cavity. Scent molecules in the air were individually identified by its bionic nose until the target's scent was found. It then sniffed around a few times to confirm the direction of the scent, and the mechanical giant dog let out another low growl towards the Ultramarine.
"Found it? Good job, Fang of Destruction, the hunt begins!"
"Woof!"
Led by the Fang of Destruction, they quickly found several bloodstains and claw marks left by the Lictor. Everyone prepared for battle, understanding that the enemy was nearby.
At the same time, Howling Celestial's ears perked up, its detection system fully engaged. Ambient noise, the heartbeats and breathing of Space Marine and xenos, and the clanking and rubbing of armor during movement—all were collected by Howling Celestial and fed into its machine spirit, where they were filtered and discarded, leaving only a faint, slow pulsating sound.
Upon detecting the target, Howling Celestial immediately assumed an attack posture. The others, noticing its change, tightened their grip on their weapons. But Howling Celestial did not immediately attack; it hadn't fully locked onto the target. Invisible fluctuations emanated from its body, spreading in all directions.
Various spectral information from the target area was collected by its eyes.
Suddenly, it let out a silent roar. The air was distorted by this roar, and sound waves were projected in a fan shape directly in front of Howling Celestial.
Upon contact with objects, they bounced back and were received by it. When all other objects reflected, the one that didn't stood out like ink on a white page. The Lictor was hidden too well; sometimes, an advantage can become a fatal weakness.
Through multiple detections, and eliminating other suspicious targets, Howling Celestial finally locked onto the Lictor. Its internal weapon system activated, and a gun barrel popped out from its chest. In a flash of lightning, a tracking missile was fired. The moment the tracking missile was launched, the Ultramarines predicted its trajectory. The moment the Lictor was hit and marked, the Ultramarines and Howling Celestial charged towards it!
"Magos Gamma's talent is truly unparalleled. We never expected the Lictor, which caused us so much trouble, to be dealt with so easily."
Jianchuan, who was accompanying Gamma and watching the battle via live broadcast from the fortress, showered Gamma with compliments the moment the Lictor was defeated. In his heart, he had already decided that upon his return, he would report to the Ethereals and elevate Magos Gamma's observation level to the highest.
If not for the consistently good impression Magos Gamma had left on the Tau Empire, Jianchuan would have suggested a threat level instead of an observation level. The technology he had revealed alone posed a significant threat to the Tau Empire's military, which heavily relied on stealth technology.
"Ambassador Jianchuan, you can't just look at the results without considering the cost. I haven't hidden it from you; if it weren't for dealing with this Lictor crisis, I wouldn't have produced so many Howling Celestials."
"Their price is so high that others only dare to borrow them from me; they don't even dare to mention buying them. This time, I've really shot myself in the foot."
"Alas, good intentions go unrewarded!"
The Water Caste Ambassador chuckled inwardly as he watched Gamma grumble and sigh. Humans possessed treasures without realizing it, short-sighted and constantly exploiting loyal individuals with talent. They deserved to be replaced by the Tau Empire.
"Alright, Magos Gamma, don't keep talking about these unhappy things. Since you came to help us this time, we certainly won't treat our friends unfairly."
I knew crying poor would pay off! I finally cried my way to it. Hurry up and give me real gold and silver, you heretics! Gamma quickly pulled down the corner of his mouth that wanted to curl up and, with a hypocritical expression, declined:
"Oh, oh, how can I accept this? I can't take these rare materials!"
"Uh—"
[ · _ · ? : Did I just say rare materials?
(( ( ; ° : ) ) ) : Oh no, I let it slip!
"Excuse me, I just get so heartbroken whenever I think about the rare materials spent on Howling Celestial. Every time I see it, I'm reminded of it. What I mean is, since I came to help you, and we are allies now, what kind of person would I be if I accepted your gifts? This is absolutely not allowed!"
Looking at Gamma, whose face was flushed with shame, Jianchuan recalled Magos Gamma's actions since arriving at Kosa. To say he was selflessly dedicated was no exaggeration. His doubts immediately vanished, and he said:
"Hahaha, Magos Gamma, you are too modest. Your contributions are evident to us all. I won't say much about your internal human affairs, but since you consider us friends, we cannot let a friend suffer a loss. What's more, you also have a fleet to maintain, and that's no small burden!"
The Water Caste Ambassador's words were so eloquent. If Gamma had a Forge World to inherit, he might have been a little tempted, even entertaining thoughts of 'a single thought to join the Tau, and the world opens up.' How could an Empire that issued IOUs compare to the 'generous Tau' who readily gave real gold and silver?
"This, this, this is my own business, no need—"
"Wise One, do not refuse. Didn't you say last time, 'We are all friends'? How is it now your own business?"
"But..."
"Alright, let's not talk about these things. It's inappropriate to discuss such matters when a great enemy is before us," Jianchuan said in a slightly forceful tone.
"..." Gamma fell silent, his face full of shame.
In the following days, the Ultramarines, accompanied by Howling Celestial, helped the Tau clear out the Lictor. Gamma, meanwhile, seemed to have been completely won over by Jianchuan's sugar-coated bullets, becoming the best of friends with him. Through Jianchuan's introduction, he met many high-ranking Earth Caste engineers, chatting and exchanging ideas happily, seemingly completely forgetting the purpose of Calgar's sending him.
However, in this harmonious process of finding and eliminating the Lictor one by one, a discordant event occurred: the Tau attempted to plagiarize Howling Celestial's technology. They were caught red-handed by the ever-vigilant Ultramarines. Upon hearing the news, Gamma had no choice but to rush to the scene with a group of enthusiastic Earth Caste and Water Caste members he had been chatting with.
Upon arriving at the scene, Gamma saw several Earth Caste members with broken legs groaning, their necks held by the weapons of the Ultramarines. These Ultramarines, in turn, were surrounded by layers of Tau.
"Stop! Release them immediately!"
"Wise One, they…"
"Release them!" Gamma commanded again, his voice stern.
Seeing Gamma's firm stance, the Ultramarines reluctantly replied, "Yes, Magos Gamma."
After seeing the hostages released, Jianchuan also told the Tau to lower their weapons. Then, he watched Gamma pick up the equipment left behind by the Earth Caste spies on the ground. He had no choice but to brace himself and step forward, intending to explain. But before he could even open his mouth near Gamma, he heard Gamma say:
"A misunderstanding. This is just an ordinary scanner, at most it can only record some external data of Howling Celestial. I think it must have been a reckless act by those engineers out of curiosity, Ambassador Jianchuan, don't you agree?"
Jianchuan was first stunned, then immediately realized that Gamma wanted to downplay the incident and treat it as a misunderstanding. He was actively giving him an out, and he quickly said:
"Yes, yes, it was all a misunderstanding."
"I see those few are quite injured, so they've paid the price for their rashness. Ambassador Jianchuan, please don't punish them further. And I hope you can understand the actions of these Ultramarines. They are veterans, and it's inevitable that they might be overly sensitive about some things."
"Understood, understood," Jianchuan echoed repeatedly.
Gamma then turned to the Ultramarines and said, "It's a misunderstanding. Although a great enemy is before us, don't be overly nervous. Furthermore, we are guests. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Our two cultures and customs are different. When you encounter something you don't understand, don't always think the worst!"
The Ultramarines understood the meaning in Gamma's words: if they made things awkward, it would be difficult to resolve.
"Yes, Magos Gamma."
"Continue with your mission. Thank you for your hard work." After saying this, Gamma smiled and said to Jianchuan and the others:
"Let's go back and continue our chat. Where were we? I rushed over so quickly I forgot."
Jianchuan, seeing this, also smiled and replied, "Hahaha, we were just saying that you, Wise One, are from Macragge. I happen to have some Macragge tea that someone gave me, and I've sent someone to fetch it. I wanted you to taste if it's authentic. The timing should be about right. Let's go back and continue our conversation."
"Let's go. I hope you haven't been fooled by someone."
The group, who had rushed over, now returned to the original reception room, chatting and laughing along the way. After the door to the reception room closed, Gamma's expression changed. He glared at the Tau in front of him and said:
"'Friend' this, 'friend' that, is this how you treat your friends?!"
Jianchuan and the Water Caste diplomats, led by him, could only offer apologetic smiles. The honest Earth Caste engineers, looking guilty, sat silently with their heads down.
"I'm not saying this to you, but is this how you do things? If someone else had just left with Howling Celestial, what would you have done? If the Ultramarines had really chopped up your rookie spies, didn't you think about how you'd resolve it?"
"Magos Gamma, please forgive us. We had no choice but to do this. No one can guarantee that this time we can completely eradicate the Gorgon. Our two previous battles with the Tyranid were completed through our cooperation. But if another one comes in a few decades, who knows what the situation will be then?" Jianchuan said with a bitter and helpless smile.
Gamma's expression softened considerably upon hearing this. He no longer scolded them but complained:
"I'm not saying I can't understand you, but you handled this too crudely. I, the inventor, was right here, and you didn't ask me. What could a few spies steal? With the junk they had, they couldn't even break through the first defense protocol I set up. Luckily, the Ultramarines found them and spared their lives. If Howling Celestial's kill protocol had been triggered, they would have been dead!"
"Wait—Magos Gamma, did you just say we could ask you directly?!" Jianchuan exclaimed.
Gamma rolled his eyes and said, "I originally thought you were all good people, always friendly and generous to me. After seeing Howling Celestial's performance, I thought you'd value some of its technology. I've always been one to repay favors and seek revenge."
"Although I can't disclose specific data to you, I can provide you with some ideas and suggestions. Based on my understanding of your technology, the detection effect of something you imitate and create should also be good. I've been chatting with you every day, waiting for you to ask, but you haven't said a word, only thinking of underhanded things!"
Jianchuan, hearing Gamma's words, wished he could slap himself. He had been puzzled why Gamma's profile didn't mention a fondness for chatting, yet he actively sought him out daily. It turned out Gamma was giving him an opportunity to speak.
"Wise One, I... it's all my fault!" Jianchuan said with a face full of remorse.
"Hmph, regretting it now is useless. I've changed my mind!"
"Magos Gamma, all the mistakes are mine. We truly need this technology. Without technology that can detect Tyranid infiltrators, who knows how many people will die because of them in the future? Many of these dying people are innocent apprentices like those in the Bork'An Academy City!"
After Jianchuan finished speaking, he suddenly knelt before Gamma. The other Water Caste members, seeing this, also knelt. The Earth Caste, being more reserved, continued to sit with their heads down. A flicker of hesitation and reluctance crossed Gamma's face. Jianchuan, realizing there was an opening, quickly added:
"Magos Gamma, I know we were in the wrong first. You can name any demand you have!"
Heh heh, you said that yourself! The cunning little Tech-Priest, seeing his prey open itself up, first feigned hesitation, then showed struggle, and finally muttered to himself silently as if looking for excuses and reasons, then said:
"I can provide you with design ideas and suggestions, but this is a transaction. You must also pay me. I want you to open up all your equipment to me, all of it!"
"You don't need to provide me with data on these devices, nor do you need to explain them to me. I also won't directly touch your weapons and equipment. How much I gain is my business, and how much I understand is also my business."
"If you find me acting in violation of the agreement, you can immediately terminate the transaction."
"Agree or disagree, you decide!"
While the Water Caste were still weighing Gamma's words, the Earth Caste, who had been sitting silently with their heads down and understood technology, heard Gamma's request and immediately understood that he was giving them an 'excuse.'
The more advanced the equipment, the more complex it is. Molecular-level errors are enough to cause fatal accidents. What can you see just by looking? See atomic-level components? See the raw code in the processor?
"We agree!" the Earth Caste representative said.
Jianchuan, hearing the technical director agree, immediately understood that this was another opportunity Magos Gamma was giving him. Thinking about how he had been full of calculations just moments before, pondering whether these demands were inappropriate or part of some conspiracy, he was suddenly overcome with shame and said in a choked voice:
"Wise One, I—"
"We are all friends! We are all friends!"
What does it feel like for a rat to enter a granary?
Magos Gamma could now write a 1,000-word essay on his 'post-entry feelings.' No matter how much the blue-skinned xeno Tech-priest schemed, they ultimately fell into his trap.
To infiltrate the T'au'nar's core stronghold, the little Tech-Priest had been acting ever since he entered the T'au'nar's base, setting up Xiaotian as bait and waiting for the prey to take it.
The Emperor does not disappoint those who have a purpose. The cunning prey ultimately could not outwit the patient hunter. The T'au'nar themselves opened a breach, letting a Tyranid inside.
"Beep."
Holding his access card, Gamma walked into the heavily guarded core stronghold with a smile. The Fire Warriors on guard even nodded and saluted him out of respect, indicating that the little Tech-Priest had been there before.
"Archmagos Gamma, you've arrived." When the busy Earth Caste saw Gamma enter, one of them quickly came forward to greet him.
The little Tech-Priest returned a smile and said very amicably, "I just went to give some minor suggestions for the 'Krooger Hounds,' but it still needs some time to adjust. Since I had time, I came to take a look."
"Thank you for your selflessness. It's progressing very quickly. Without you, we wouldn't even have a clue. Is the Archmagos here again to see the 'T'au'nar'?"
"Yes, I must say your Chief Engineer Shou'an is indeed a true genius. He completed the design of multiple battlesuits by himself. The T'au'nar is even more of a masterpiece, a qualitative leap."
"If Chief Engineer Shou'an were to awaken from his slumber and hear your praise, he would certainly feel honored. This time, allow me to guide you."
"Good."
A human and an Earth Caste walked deeper into the base, chatting casually. After they left, the other Earth Caste members also started discussing among themselves.
"This one is also a genius, not at all inferior to Chief Engineer Shou'an!"
Someone nearby heard this and asked curiously, "But I just heard him speak highly of Chief Engineer Shou'an, didn't I?"
"That's his humility, his ability to recognize where others are stronger than him. I've inquired with the 'Hound' people; this Archmagos Gamma is a polymath, and the breadth of his expertise is beyond our imagination!"
"Oh, why didn't I get such a good opportunity! I heard that he is very kind and never hesitates to explain problems to us."
The Earth Caste who spoke had a look of regret, as did the others. At this moment, another Earth Caste said, "Heh heh, don't regret it yet. It's hard to say what will happen in the future. We're not entirely without a chance."
"How so?"
"I once passed by the lounge and overheard the Water Caste chatting inside. From what they said, this Archmagos, because of his good character, has been exploited quite a bit by the humans and has long been full of resentment. Moreover, do you know how to describe his values? They are very 'Shangshang Shando'."
"Haha, there's such a thing."
"But his 'Shangshang Shando' is 'somewhat different' from ours."
"How is it different?" another Earth Caste asked curiously.
"In the words of this Archmagos, humans are sensitive beasts after being hurt; any slight disturbance will cause them to be startled and attack. We are cubs who have just stepped out of a safe zone, curious about everything and wanting to touch and try. Although he admires our spirit, he cannot be like us."
"Is that so? I think this Archmagos makes sense. The galaxy is far more dangerous than we imagine."
The others also nodded in agreement. They had seen and experienced too much; their former innocence had already vanished.
"But this Archmagos is not pessimistic. He still chooses to face the future with a positive attitude. He said he appreciates the concept of Shangshang Shando, which aligns with his ideals, but he also sees the unreasonable aspects within Shangshang Shando."
"Unreasonable?"
"He said that as long as there are differences between species, it's impossible to coexist peacefully forever. So his idea is for intelligent beings to abandon their physical bodies and exist as data, thus eliminating differences. People who have abandoned their bodies would serve as managers, governing the various races of the galaxy, opening channels for advancement, and accepting qualified individuals from all races. This ensures the propagation of species while allowing people without racial bias to maintain peace."
"He calls this path: Mechanical Ascension!"
...
Yes, the despicable Tech-priest were not content with prying open the T'au'nar's granary; they also tried to corrupt the T'au'nar's Shangshang Shando with the Adeptus Mechanicus's heresies. In Gamma's own words:
"Why should the Adeptus Mechanicus, this pile of dung, only be eaten by us humans? Everyone should eat it together; friends should share!"
It was just a sudden thought, and Gamma, who was just trying his luck, didn't know that his "Shangshang Shando version of Mechanical Ascension" had already begun to spread among the Earth Caste engineers. As for whether there would be any T'au'nar who agreed with Gamma's "heresies," no one knew; only time would tell.
He had no time for such thoughts now. The behemoth before him had already captivated Gamma's entire mind. Titan-class units, no matter which faction in the galaxy they belonged to, were crucial assets; one was enough to change the tide of battle.
("T'au'nar" Supreme Battlesuit)
After multiple engagements with the Imperium, Orks, and Tyranid Bio-Titans, and being repeatedly kicked in the rear by these colossal enemies capable of shrugging off bomber raids, the Tau Empire was finally forced to admit that they also needed to develop similar weapons.
Thus, the Ethereals demanded that Chief Engineer Shou'an, the Earth Caste genius who created the XV107 and XV109, develop a "Titan" of the T'au'nar's own.
Shou'an did not disappoint the Ethereals, and the KX139 "T'au'nar" Supreme Battlesuit was born.
The KX139 stands approximately 16 meters tall, essentially a walking fortress, and is currently the Tau Empire's largest battlesuit, designed to counter the unknown enemies the Tau Empire might encounter now and in the future.
Its main weapon is the pulse cannon array on its back, which can be replaced with a Comet Missile System, a heavy railgun, or a burst cannon. Each arm is also equipped with a set of triple ion cannons or fusion annihilators, and there are two alert defense systems mounted on its chest, carrying rapid-fire cannons and missile pods.
For defense, it has a barrier shield generator providing protection, sufficient to withstand Titan-class weapon attacks.
The "T'au'nar" still adheres to the T'au'nar's design philosophy—emphasis on long-range firepower. In terms of size and performance, it is at most on par with the Imperium's most common "Warhound" Titan, and in some areas, it is even inferior. Yet, it is still a Titan, possessing knowledge that Gamma has never been able to access.
After realizing that his "wild father's" words—that "if there isn't a rebellion, we'll have our own Titan legion in two years"—were purely Archmagos Will's bragging, Gamma didn't give the Archmagos any less side-eye. To salvage his image in his son's heart, the Archmagos had no choice but to give Gamma his only Titan-related collection: a "plasma reactor."
As a result, Gamma soon cobbled together something even better. This made Archmagos Will, upon hearing the news, regret it so much he stomped his feet. If he had known centuries ago that he would have such a son, he would have taken that Titan wreckage through backhanded means. But now, he could only stare helplessly at his precious son. How could he not regret it?
To access Titan technology, one cannot bypass the Titan Cult, and even less Mars. However, Thedan is the Regent's subordinate, and the technology he possesses was partly collected by Archmagos Will, but mostly a gift from his grandmaster, Archmagos Cawl. Yet, his grandmaster also couldn't build Titans. Expecting the Titan Cult and Mars to open up to Thedan is utterly impossible unless Thedan changes his leader and completely falls out with Regent Guilliman.
Because Thedan was technologically blockaded, Gamma had never been able to access knowledge about Titans, which is why he schemed so much to get in.
"Archmagos Gamma seems particularly interested in the T'au'nar?" the Earth Caste who had been accompanying Gamma asked.
Gamma, who didn't want to be distracted for a moment, heard the other's words and had to avert his fixed gaze, saying with an air of admiration:
"This is a miracle in materials science. No scientist doesn't understand its significance."
Although Gamma's expression was an act, his words were true. To build colossal equipment like Titans, the first hurdle is to create a metal skeleton strong enough to support its massive self-weight.
It's like scaling a human up 10 times proportionally; that person would immediately have their bones crushed by their own weight. The same principle applies to machinery. Gamma could design a battlesuit larger than Xingtian, but for every bit larger, the battlesuit's self-weight would increase tenfold. If the height doubles, let alone moving, just standing still, the weight would exceed the load-bearing limit of the metal skeleton's materials, causing the battlesuit to collapse and disintegrate.
Without materials that meet design requirements, it's impossible to manufacture weapons and equipment that meet design requirements, and the bottomless pit of materials science still exists in 42K.
"Indeed, the Supreme Battlesuit can be said to be the pinnacle of materials science in our Tau Empire. Many young people in the Earth Caste are now becoming ambitious; they all look up to Chief Engineer Shou'an as an idol, solely focused on innovation in design, and fewer and fewer are willing to conduct fundamental research with a down-to-earth approach."
"Haha, don't look so glum. It's the same everywhere. But there will always be people who understand the importance of fundamental research, and there will always be people willing to put in the effort."
"Archmagos Gamma isn't just interested in the materials of the Supreme Battlesuit, are you? You can't see much from just looking, can you?" the Earth Caste engineer asked seemingly casually.
Gamma's eyelids dropped slightly, not letting the other party see his eyes. He realized he had been coming too frequently lately, and the cunning xenos were starting to test him. His eyes darted around, thinking of an excuse, then he looked up and said frankly:
"There's no real gain in terms of materials, but in terms of design, I can still learn a lot of useful things. Just the point about how to make the battlesuit's self-weight more reasonably borne by the skeleton has given me considerable inspiration."
"Hahaha, I see. Archmagos Gamma is truly good at discovering things. It's good that you've gained something; otherwise, we'd feel uneasy."
"It's just mutual help between friends; why mention such things?"
The Earth Caste smiled and said no more. Although he had been assigned the task of monitoring Gamma, he was just a researcher, and Gamma's impression on him was quite good. For him, it was enough to understand the reason for the other's frequent presence here. He didn't believe that merely looking would lead to any significant leak.
In his opinion, the commander assigning him such a task must have been the idea of some cunning, technically ignorant Water Caste. Wasn't this a case of an amateur leading an expert?
Seeing the other party fall silent and stop chattering, Gamma refocused his attention on the battlesuit before him. Now, he had to make every second count. Whether he could build a Titan when he returned depended on this visit!
The mission to assist the Kosa in clearing Lictor was over. What Magos Gamma gained from it would only be seen later. Now, they had to begin evacuating Kosa, as the Gorgon Hive Fleet had already warped out of gravity-superluminal travel and would arrive shortly.
Magos Gamma, who was leaving with the combined fleet, stood by the viewport of the gear boy, gazing at the beautiful planet before him. His friends and those he knew were all down there: Ventris, Inquisitor Finnie, the Ascetics, Dorn's Hammer, the Commanders who wrote IOUs, the butterfly-like Sisters, and the blue-skinned xenos whom he had stolen blind yet still thanked him.
"I wonder if we'll ever meet again?" Magos Gamma murmured to himself.
Behind him were Magos Lauster and Leia. The Tech-priest felt similarly to Magos Gamma, though their concerns differed.
They muttered things like, "Not done digging yet," and "Can't they be a little late, so I can dig one more scoop?"
Magos Gamma found nothing amiss with this; Tech-priest were all like this, and he wasn't surprised in the least.
"Alright, stop muttering. I've already categorized and graded the relics. You can exchange them for research based on your contributions," Magos Gamma told the group behind him just before the gear boy was about to Warp into the Warp.
"Woohoo, Praise the Omnissiah!" The Tech-priest Girl cheered.
"Praise the Omnissiah!" Other Tech-priest also cheered.
"..."
Magos Gamma, feeling a bit overheated from being cooped up, glared fiercely at the Tech-priest Girl who had started the cheering, then flung his hand and turned to leave.
After the combined fleet made a short Warp jump and left Kosa Star, both factions on the ground plunged into busy pre-war preparations. As for the Orks, Orks didn't need preparation; they were always in a state of war.
This situation continued until the bird-down array on the early warning satellites distributed around the Kosa Star system detected an unknown number of objects rapidly approaching Kosa. The war had begun!
Upon entering the Kosa Star system, the Gorgon Hive Fleet immediately headed straight for Kosa Star. Always hungry, always insatiable, the Tyranid had already awakened the dormant Tyranid organisms within their bio-ships even before entering the Kosa Star system.
The moment the bio-ships halted in low orbit, an overwhelming deluge of Tyranid spore pods plummeted from orbit to the ground. The Kosa and new recruits on the ground had no idea that the tens of thousands of beautiful meteor showers in the night sky were the most terrifying attack method of the galactic scourge; they merely gazed up at the night sky with curious eyes.
The veterans, however, had already taken up their weapons and begun praying to the Emperor. They didn't pray for their own survival; they only hoped to kill more xenos before their souls returned to the Golden Throne.
The anti-air defenses of both humanity and the Kosa were not activated. They wanted the Gorgon to commit as much biomass as possible here. Only with a large investment would the Gorgon be unwilling to abandon this place, thereby achieving the goal of attracting and tying down the Tyranid.
The Orks didn't care about any of this. Both the Snake Bites and Blood Axe Boyz were in a full-blown Waaagh! The entire Ork forest was filled with an atmosphere akin to a human holiday.
Various Ork anti-aircraft weapons fired relentlessly at the falling spore drop pods in the sky. Although the weapons themselves had terrible accuracy, with the added power of the 'I reckon' force and sheer numbers, many Tyranid drop pods were blown apart during their descent, turning the Tyranid beasts inside into mud upon impact.
"Report! Detecting an increased number of drop pods directed towards the Ork forest by Gorgon!"
Ventris and the Commanders present, upon receiving the report, exchanged knowing smiles. Then he spoke, "Let the Orks and Tyranid fight for a while first. We'll play passive defense for a wave."
"Heh heh, once the Orks can't hold on, we'll provide some long-range support for them. I never thought I'd have a day where I genuinely provide fire support for Orks. Don't you think it's strange?" one Commander joked.
"Hahaha, now that you mention it, it does feel really strange, hahaha."
"Hahaha, it really is."
"Alright, it's fine to be happy for a bit, but don't forget, everyone, this is just the beginning. The hard part is yet to come!" Ventris reminded them.
"Yes!"
Although the Gorgon Hive changed the delivery direction of the drop pods, the first wave of attack still sent Tyranid beasts to every corner of Kosa Star. These spore drop pods, which looked like disgusting lumps of flesh, were meticulously designed living Tyranid organisms.
They could withstand the high temperatures generated by friction when traversing the atmosphere, and once inside the atmosphere, they could flexibly change trajectory and decelerate. Upon reaching the ground and releasing the Tyranid organisms they carried, they would open a balloon-like sac to float in the air, using their own biological weapons to support other Tyranid organisms.
The Gaunts and Hormagaunts that poured out of the spore pods began to indiscriminately slaughter all life on Kosa from the moment they emerged. The Tyranid that landed near the human and Kosa defense lines seemed to know in advance that there were enemies here, ignoring everything else and charging directly.
Gorgon knew there were enemies here; the earlier arriving Lictor had already transmitted the collected intelligence to the Hive Mind in a unique Tyranid way. But it didn't care; all it cared about was whether these enemies could provide biomass. If they could, they were food. In its eyes, there was only food that was easy to consume and food that required some effort.
"Fire! Don't let these scum get close to the line!"
The Astra Militarum platoon sergeant issued the order when the charging Hormagaunts and Gaunts reached the optimal firing position. A few volleys wiped out at least half of the Tyranid, but the faster Hormagaunts still managed to break through the fire blockade and rapidly charge towards the defensive positions. However, the barbed wire and pre-dug trenches on the ground stopped them again.
"Free fire! Aim at those bugs that are close! I'm practically in the bug's mouth, are you blind?!"
Hearing the sergeant's curses, the new recruits quickly fired at the Hormagaunts entangled in the barbed wire. The old veterans grunted, but their actions were even faster than the new recruits.
"Sergeant, didn't command say to use the Mechanical Hounds to repel the first wave of bugs?" The new recruit closest to the sergeant asked nervously, staring ahead.
But no sooner had the words left his mouth than the sergeant's palm landed on the back of his head, followed by a torrent of curses:
"I'm telling you to tie yourself up and blow up the bugs! Didn't you see the Tech-priest' faces like their fathers died when they got the order? Ironhides are precious. If it wasn't for Magos Gamma's kindness, let alone you, even the Colonel wouldn't dream of touching such a treasure in his life."
The beaten new recruit didn't get angry, he just chuckled and said, "Heh heh, Sergeant, I'm reluctant too, right, Ironhide?"
"Woof!"
The sergeant patted the Mechanical Hound's head beside him, a hint of a smile flashing across his face, then looked at the Tyranid corpses in front of the position with a solemn expression, saying:
"This is nothing. It's not even an appetizer. It's not their turn yet."
While humans, Kosa, and Orks were engaging the Tyranid, the meteor shower of Tyranid drop pods in the sky never ceased. Not all of these pods would decelerate and release Tyranid creatures upon landing.
Some, like actual meteors, crashed straight into the ground. Upon impact, they would unfurl their sturdy outer shells, revealing swollen, fleshy sacs inside, then burrow underground like ticks, with only the tip of their spore chimney exposed.
These special drop pods were spore cysts. They could release billions of contaminating microorganisms into the air through their apical spore chimneys. Just as a spider injects venom into its prey to melt it and make it edible, these microorganisms would alter the planet's original atmosphere, making the air itself "mature," turning the air into Tyranid food. Simultaneously, the toxic air would kill other life forms on the planet.
This was also one of the Tyranid' most terrifying and intractable weapons. If you held out until the end, even the air would want to kill you. Even if the Tyranid fleet was driven off, what remained would be a death world permeated with toxic gases and Tyranid organisms.
"Waaagh!"
The Ork Boy, with an excited, bloodthirsty look, swung his big choppa, hacking and slashing through the swarm. Although he had accumulated many wounds, he felt very Waaagh! now and didn't want to stop at all.
After he chopped down all the bugs in front of him, he wanted to get a few more heads to take back as decorations. Just in case that cunning hummie came back someday, he would sell these heads for teeth, and then he could get himself an even more Waaagh! weapon.
He had heard plenty of bragging from the older Orks, saying that his batch of Boyz had crawled out of the ground at the wrong time. If they had crawled out a few days earlier, they could have bought the most Waaagh! weapons from hummie. Although he thought his big choppa was pretty Waaagh!, after seeing the weapons of the heavily armored bosses, he still felt hummie's weapons were even more Waaagh!.
"Big Tooth, hurry up, Warboss has an order!"
Big Tooth, not wanting to get beaten, didn't bother chopping bug heads and scurried over, shouting as he ran, "Coming! Where does the Big Boss want us to Waaagh! now?"
"He doesn't want us to Waaagh!, he's just giving us a heads-up. Boss says these bugs are poisonous, so we need to be careful."
Poisonous? Am I poisoned? Am I going to see gork and mork? I haven't Waaagh! enough yet! The Ork was still thinking when his body went limp.
"Big Tooth? What's wrong?"
"I don't know, should we leave him here, or carry him back to the Painboy?"
"Carry him back. I just saw Big Tooth was pretty Waaagh!"
"Hmm, alright, let's carry him back."
Two Orks each grabbed one of Big Tooth's legs, dragging the unconscious or dead Ork towards the nearest Painboy. As for whether Big Tooth would die from being dragged like this, they didn't know, nor did they consider it.
The same scene was playing out across the Ork forest. At the same time, the Gorgon Hive, encountering Orks for the first time, was completely baffled. It had tried several different instant-kill toxins against the Orks, but why couldn't it kill them?
Compared to Ironhide warning his Boyz and causing a wave of "friendly fire" by letting them know they were poisoned, the Snake Bites Orks under Iron Jaw had even more varied ways of dealing with the Tyranid.
Tyranid beasts with constantly updated potent venom and a very Waaagh! appearance were like dream beasts for the Snake Bites Boyz, who regularly took a dose of poison themselves. Many Ork Boyz were trying every possible way to capture a Tyranid alive. They wanted to keep them as pets. A living Tyranid was currently priceless within the Snake Bites tribe, with its value constantly rising.
Many Slaver Boyz waved their long whips, driving their Squigs into the battlefield, just to catch one to properly train.
Other Boyz, somehow figuring things out, extracted the venom sacs from Tyranid creatures, then mixed them with other random things and crushed them, smearing them onto their weapons. A single strike from such a weapon would make a Tyranid kick the bucket instantly.
The cunning Orks and the venomous Gorgon were locked in a fierce, inseparable battle for a time, which left the humans and Kosa, who had initially planned to provide long-range support for the Orks, looking at each other. However, even though Gorgon focused most of its energy on the Orks, a significant number of Tyranid continued to relentlessly attack the defensive positions on both sides. Death and sacrifice were constantly unfolding on Kosa.
"Damn it, it's endless!" the veteran cursed, kicking a dead Tyranid on the ground and spitting.
It had been a week since the first Tyranid creature set foot on Kosa. In that week, waves of bugs fearlessly assaulted the positions every few hours, causing the defending soldiers on the ground to be highly stressed and unable to rest, leaving them all extremely exhausted.
"Stop the damn nonsense, save your strength for fighting the bugs. You're so big but can't even move a Gun Worm. Look at the Mechanical Hound, it just picks it up and goes."
"It runs on electricity, I eat food, how can it be the same? Old Sal, didn't you say you've fought bugs several times? Then tell me, why do the bug leaders send them in waves, a few at a time? What's their plan?"
The new recruit, a former Hive World hooligan now a large Astra Militarum soldier, asked while picking up his iron hook, hooking it into the carapace of a dead Gun Worm.
Then, gripping the hook's handle with both hands, he leaned back, using his body weight to drag the Gun Worm step by step towards the cremation pit. Around him, many other soldiers were doing the same.
"Why? To exhaust us to death! Heave-ho!"
The person called Old Sal also dragged a Tyranid. Although called Old Sal, he didn't look very old, only in his twenties. Considering the terrible conditions on the battlefield and the fact that he hadn't cleaned himself for a while, Sal's age should be even younger.
Sal's answer almost made the large new recruit, who was exerting himself, choke. He quickly gasped for air and then asked incredulously:
"What? Exhaust us to death?"
"I knew you wouldn't believe it. I got this information from the Tech-priest."
"Got it? You?"
"Get lost, listen or don't listen," Sal cursed unhappily.
"Listen, tell me? If you don't, it means you're bragging," the new recruit provoked.
"Hmph, the Tech-priest dissected those Gun Worms. They only have mouths, their bellies don't even have intestines. They either starve to death after being born or are killed by us. Why else would they be used if not to exhaust us to death?"
"Damn it!"
While the frontline soldiers were truly cleaning up the battlefield, the Commander and Political Commissar of the Astra Militarum regiment responsible for this defense line were frowning as they looked at the battle reports from recent days.
"Command reminds us that once the soldiers get used to this intensity of combat, if the bugs suddenly increase their forces on any part of the line, the soldiers' morale could easily collapse!" the Commander said, rubbing his brow.
The Political Commissar's index finger tapped unconsciously on the table. After a moment of thought, he said, "From the directives sent by Command, similar situations are not unique to us, which is why they are reminding us."
"Two days ago, I heard the bugs and the Orks were fighting fiercely, and I was happy for a while. But who would have thought that reduced pressure could have such hidden dangers."
"Don't say you, me too. If it weren't for this telegram from General Command, I'd still be happy now," the Political Commissar said with a wry smile.
"I think we should let some people rotate for rest. On one hand, with fewer people on duty, the soldiers' vigilance will naturally increase. On the other hand, it can alleviate the soldiers' fatigue. Being constantly tense is not a solution."
"But this way, the firepower density won't be able to completely block the Tyranid's attack, and soldier casualties..."
"Casualties? We are at the outermost perimeter of the defense line. Our purpose is, once a large-scale Tyranid invasion occurs, to buy time for the lines behind us with our lives. When we received the order, weren't we already prepared for total annihilation?"
The Commander's face showed no trace of fear, and his tone conveyed only calm acceptance, endless loyalty, and an unwavering determination born of intense hatred for the Tyranids.
The Political Commissar looked at his old partner, recalling the scene when he had just graduated from the Schola Progenium and was assigned to the regiment. He remembered their first meeting; the first thing that bastard said was:
"Are you ready to die?"
At that time, young and hot-blooded, he immediately replied with fervor: "Of course!"
But when he pondered in his tent all night whether he had offended someone to be assigned to an Astra Militarum regiment on a suicide mission, and after making mental preparations to serve the Emperor for half the night, he was ready to die for the Emperor. The next day, with bloodshot eyes, he found the other party, intending to ask about the specific mission, only to realize that this guy himself wasn't afraid of death and was looking for a partner who also wasn't afraid of death, which was why he asked that question.
Thinking of this, the Political Commissar smiled and said, "It finally came true for you, didn't it?"
"Hahaha, you really understand me! What do you think of my plan?"
"Hmm, it's good. Let's do as you say, but we can assign more of the Mechanical Hounds distributed to the regiment. Their combat power is not low, and they can help if the bugs charge."
"Good."
Along the long human defense line, the Astra Militarum regiments, after receiving the warning from General Command, were making corresponding changes to counter the Tyranid's attrition tactics and guard against potential psychological warfare.
Regiments in more remote defensive positions adopted a relatively conservative approach, allowing only a small portion of soldiers to rest behind the lines. These Commanders understood that if an emergency occurred, they would not receive timely support without friendly forces nearby.
Meanwhile, Astra Militarum regiments in sectors closer to friendly forces were more daring. They directly used a joint defense and cooperation method, performing their own tasks while also constantly monitoring adjacent sectors. This allowed them to withdraw more soldiers from the front line, giving them better rest.
At the same time, within General Command in the deep rear, high-ranking Commanders were also fiercely debating whether to rotate soldiers from rear fortresses with frontline soldiers if this situation continued.
"I don't think we'll get anywhere by continuing this discussion. We need to understand the situation with the Orks before we can make a decision!"
Hearing someone say this, the Commanders, after a moment of contemplation, turned their attention to the Inquisitor who had been sitting quietly to the side. If anyone understood the situation with those Orks, besides the departed Magos Gamma, it would be this Inquisitor. She had been involved in the Wise One's plan from start to finish.
Seeing everyone quiet down and look at her, Inquisitor Finnie smiled a little helplessly, then stood up and said:
"Gentlemen, do not be mistaken into thinking the Orks are weak just because they have been docilely staying in the forest. In fact, Magos Gamma never stopped enhancing those Orks before he left."
"Inquisitor Finnie, do you have an estimate of the Orks' actual strength?"
The Inquisitor shook her head and said, "Because of the Orks' chaotic nature, even Magos Gamma only had an estimate of their strength there. I certainly can't claim to understand it."
"Then what was Magos Gamma's estimated result?"
"Magos Gamma estimated there are at least 7 million Orks in the Ork forest, and it could exceed 10 million!"
"Hiss! How did Magos Gamma make them stay docilely in the forest!?"
Even Gamma himself couldn't answer this question. Anyway, he just did it, and got along very happily with the Orks. Although he secretly buried several nuclear bombs in the forest after learning about the strength of the two Ork clans, these nuclear bombs were eventually dug up and taken away by him. He didn't want any scavenger kid to pick them up after he left.
"I know this result sounds incredible. When Magos Gamma told me, my first reaction was also disbelief.
However, based on the behavior of the Orks there, Magos Gamma's estimate is correct."
"That's also why I'm only telling you about this now, after all, this result is too illogical."
After hearing the Inquisitor's words, everyone else exchanged glances. Orks of this number, given a spaceship, could easily Waaagh! through several star systems. Any normal person who understood Orks even slightly would not believe they could be "kept" in a forest, yet the fact was before them: Magos Gamma had done it.
"So, the Tyranids won't be able to take down those Orks anytime soon, then."
"Neither can we! Now that I think about it, I went to that Ork grand market just over a month ago to watch the excitement. It's truly the Emperor's blessing that I returned alive."
"Heh heh, then you can brag to your grandchildren that you fought your way in and out seven times amidst ten million Orks, without even losing a single hair."
"Ha, that's true."
Although the Orks' strength surprised everyone, almost breaking their backs, the Orks' strength is beneficial to humanity for now. Unless Gorgon commits more resources, it won't be able to spare the effort to deal with them anytime soon. If Gorgon does commit more resources, that's even better—that's what the Human-Tau Alliance wants to see.
"I think there's no need for us to discuss this further. The frontline troops cannot always fight, and the fortress troops cannot always be idle."
"Hmm, good."
While General Command was still formulating the rotation plan, the soldiers who had been sent to rest behind the front line earlier, under the arrangement of the frontline Commanders, were finally able to get a long-awaited peaceful sleep, without having to wake up every few hours.
But just as they relaxed, danger had silently crept up to them.
As night fell, all was quiet. The person on duty also leaned against the wall, nodding off. The supply box, which had been withdrawn with the soldiers, mysteriously opened a crack on its own, and a long, slender tentacle probed out from the box through the gap.
After a thorough scan to confirm no other creatures were around, a creature the size of a child's forearm slowly pushed open the supply box with its body and crawled out. It was a creature resembling a cockroach with teeth and tentacles. It was unknown what creature's genes the Tyranids used to create it, but from its silent, rapid movement and deliberate hiding in dark corners and crevices where light couldn't reach, it was clear this thing had a connection to the cockroaches of Ancient Terra.
Its quiet hiding in the corner indicated it was a patient hunter. An hour passed, and it didn't move. Two hours passed, and it still didn't move until dawn was about to arrive, and a faint light began to appear on the horizon. A soldier, bleary-eyed, pushed aside the tent flap, yawning with one hand and holding his belt with the other, walking towards a corner of the camp that the lamps couldn't illuminate.
"Damn it, I knew I shouldn't have drunk so much water. Luckily my little brother is strong, otherwise I'd definitely wet the bed—"
"Hmm!"
Five long minutes passed, and the soldier, finally overcoming his prostate, showed a look of relief on his face, involuntarily humming along:
"Shh—Shh! Mmm-mmm-mmm—"
The soldier, eyes narrowed, enjoying the sensation of unobstructed relief, didn't know what was lunging at his face. He tried to cry for help, but his mouth was blocked by the monster's abdomen. In a panic, he reached out to pull off the worm crawling on his face, but his movements were ultimately a step too slow.
The small monster's slender tentacles had already pierced his eardrums, reaching directly into his brain, causing the soldier to instantly lose control of his body, twitching and collapsing in his own excrement.
At this moment, the human, who had not yet completely lost consciousness, looked with twisted, horrified eyes at the monster clinging to his face. He saw the monster's sharp mouthparts opening and closing, and felt the tentacles churning in his brain through his ear canals and nasal passages.
"Whimper—whimper—whimper—"
The incapacitated human could only whimper in vain, but he immediately couldn't even whimper. His consciousness had been erased, and these tentacles had penetrated his central nervous system, transforming him into a puppet controlled by the Tyranid Hive Mind.
The twitching had stopped. The Tyranid, not yet accustomed to its new "mode of transport," began to try to control the tool to get up. After several attempts and failures, the "soldier" finally stood up, covered in filth, and then walked step by step towards the open tent...
"What the hell is this?!" The Regimental Commander, having received the news, pointed at the Tyranid between the two human corpses on the ground and asked.
The accompanying Priest glanced at it and gave the answer: "leech."
"Huh? I mean, what does this thing do? What does it want? How do we find them?"
"A small Tyranid organism that can parasitize and manipulate hosts through its tentacles, turning the host into a puppet. It can be defended against by wearing gas masks, or by burning the entire ground with flamethrowers," the Tech-Priest answered word by word.
The Regimental Commander's face stiffened upon hearing this. From his expression and the bulging veins on his forehead, it was clear he was not pleased by the Tech-Priest's answer.
"Where the hell am I going to get enough fuel to burn the entire ground, Priest? Quickly, help me think of another way!"
The Tech-Priest glanced at the thoughtless brutes around him, and with an expressionless face, sighed inwardly. He was truly fed up with these brainless individuals. Did they really need to ask him such a simple answer? But then he recalled the teachings of his idol, Magos Gamma:
"We are the Priests of the Omnissiah. We should guide the loyal and lost with knowledge and wisdom."
"You should thank Magos Gamma; he has already generously bestowed the solution upon you," the Priest said, then issued an order to the Mechanical Hound that had been following him.
"Woof!"
The Mechanical Hound, with clear signs of modification on its exterior, immediately went to the leech's corpse after hearing its master's command, sniffed it, and then began to search for prey using the keen sense granted by its bionic nose.
Soon, this Mechanical Hound, named "Golden Heritage," stopped in front of a pile of items. After circling it a few times, it simultaneously emitted an alarm and fired a laser from the mechanical appendage on its back, marking the box containing the leech.
"See? It's found," the Tech-Priest said flatly.
...
The appearance of the leech made the soldiers on the defensive line start going to the bathroom in groups. The internal affairs that the Political Commissar had repeatedly ordered to improve, but had not, were now spontaneously "cleaned up" by the soldiers, with items neatly organized and stacked.
Almost all the Mechanical Hounds along the entire defensive line were doing the same thing: using their bionic noses to search the ground inch by inch. Once a target was found, they would start digging.
The soil was broken open by metal claws, and the hidden underground creatures were dug out by the hounds, then bitten to death. After killing their prey, the hounds would carry the dead Tyranid organism and trot cheerfully to their masters to show off their achievements.
"Haha, well done, my little darling! How many is that now?"
"Who counts these ugly things?! Steel Fang, come here for a head scratch! Captain, why do you think Magos Gamma didn't install the ability to eat on Steel Fang? Besides head scratches, I can't reward Steel Fang in any other way."
The young soldier, with a naive face, stroked the dog's head, looking regretful. The Captain, hearing this, wanted to slap his little head again. If the Tech-priest in the regiment heard this, they would skin him alive. But he was currently holding a worm and couldn't free his hands, so he could only scold him angrily:
"Don't blurt out everything, you idiot! Such a heavenly figure is not for you to talk about!"
The young soldier pouted aggrievedly. He just wanted to feed Steel Fang, nothing else. The Captain snorted at his appearance, but sighed inwardly. This child shouldn't be here, but besides here, he had nowhere else to go. If he hadn't been soft-hearted for a moment, this child would have been destroyed with his family and his home planet in the orbital bombardment long ago.
"You take Steel Fang and continue to find all the other hidden leech. Ever since these things appeared, I've had to sleep with one eye open."
"Yes, sir! Mission accomplished!" The young soldier saluted happily.
But his salute was too grand, causing his helmet, which was clearly a size too large, to tilt to one side, looking very comical. Those who saw this scene burst into laughter, and the laughter made the young soldier blush and quickly straighten his helmet, then angrily shouted at those who were mocking him:
"If you, you, you guys laugh again, I'll make Steel Fang bite you!"
The Captain also suppressed his laughter and urged, "Don't waste time, go and get to work quickly. I'll go check elsewhere. You be careful!"
"Yes, sir."
Casually throwing the leech on the ground and stomping it to smithereens, the Astra Militarum Captain turned and left. He needed to check how everyone else's work was progressing. Counting the time, another wave of Tyranid was probably about to rush over.
Watching the Captain's retreating figure, the young soldier patted Steel Fang's large head as it nudged him, and said with a face full of purpose:
"Let's go, Steel Fang, let's kill some worms together!"
"Woof!"
Devoting a portion of manpower specifically to eliminate the hidden dangers posed by leech was not an overreaction. These parasitic small Tyranid organisms caused far more casualties than Knife Worms and Gun Worms.
The defensive line, meticulously laid out by humans over several years, even at its outermost perimeter, could not be breached by low-intensity harassment. The crisscrossing firepower network ensured that once Tyranid organisms entered range, they would be subjected to a combined assault of composite firepower consisting of plasma weapons, kinetic weapons, focused energy weapons, and high-explosive weapons. Few Knife Worms could break through the firepower blockade, and even if they approached the defensive line, there were swarms of Mechanical Hounds waiting in groups to hunt them.
Soldiers firing from elevated trenches and bunkers were already difficult to hit. Even if they were unfortunately wounded by live ammunition or bone spurs fired by Gun Worm symbiotic weapons, as long as it wasn't a direct hit to the head, soldiers who had already been injected with "detoxification" basically survived.
Moreover, the Astra Militarum could accept death by headshot; though unlucky, it was a heroic death in battle.
However, death by sneak attack from a leech, followed by brain insertion and manipulation, was physiologically and psychologically unacceptable to the higher-ups. Dying in such a humiliating way caused the Astra Militarum to be constantly on edge since the appearance of the leech.
Therefore, eliminating leech was not just about reducing unnecessary casualties, but also about the morale and mental state of the front-line soldiers.
Of course, not everyone thought this way. More accurately, soldiers who were unfortunately wounded by Gun Worm symbiotic weapons didn't think this way. In their agonizing pain, they would even be willing to sleep with leech now.
"Ah! Mark, you son of a bitch!" The wounded soldier wailed curses.
Fortunately, the attending physician's attention was fully on the surgery; he was "fully focused" on treating the patient's pain and didn't hear the patient cursing.
With both feet on the patient's arms, fixing him to prevent escape and struggle, his hands grasped the fixing forceps, firmly clamping the Tyranid's live ammunition that had already penetrated the patient's body. Then, with all his might, he yanked it out and shouted excitedly:
"It's out!"
After speaking, he stepped down from the patient, walked to the side, picked up a medical device that others needed to carry with one hand, and with the other hand, picked up the flashlight connected to the medical device, aimed it at the patient on the ground, and turned on the medical energy field switch.
Soon, the soldier, noticing that he was no longer bleeding, looked at his wound in amazement and said:
"The injection we got also has this function? Wasn't it just for detoxification?"
The medic put down the medical device and explained: "Of course it's for detoxification. When you were first brought in, you were almost poisoned to death. If I hadn't shined it on you, you would have already met the Emperor."
"Then this?" The wounded soldier, still lying on the ground, pointed at his closed wound and asked.
"The Medical Sister said that the medicine called 'nano-something' was originally for healing, but Magos Gamma added the detoxification function to it. This is a good thing that even noble lords might not get to use. Tsk, tsk, so generous, so willing to give."
"With this, even I can be a doctor!" The soldier turned his head, looking at the medical device next to Mark with surprise.
Mark glanced at the idiot on the ground who wanted to usurp his position, and said disdainfully:
"Don't dream. Even now, I can only use the medical device that the Medical Sister helped me debug, and use the 'flashlight' on it to shine on you. Haven't you seen that I've covered all the buttons on it? I'm just afraid of accidentally touching the wrong place and killing you!"
"Uh, then you must be careful—"
"How long do you plan to lie there?"
"A bit dizzy, let me recover."
"Suit yourself."
"I say, Mark, where did the Commander recruit you from?"
"I was rescued by the Commander from pirates. They originally planned to sell me as a slave," Mark answered boredly.
"Heh, pretty unlucky. But who taught you your medical skills?"
"Hehe, it's hereditary. My family has been slaughtering livestock for noble lords for generations," Mark said proudly, but his words were interrupted before he could finish.
"Wait a minute! What did you just say your family did for generations?"
"Slaughtered livestock! What's wrong?"
"Are doctors and butchers the same thing?! You weren't kidnapped by pirates from some feudal world, were you?!"
"It was a feudal world, but unfortunately, I don't know where it was. Now I can't even find the place if I want to go back and see. And aren't doctors and butchers the same thing? Anyway, where I'm from, if anyone broke a leg or got injured, they'd come to my family for treatment. I'm telling you, treating injuries is all about 'speed, precision, and ruthlessness'!"
"Just like you just now, if I were a step slower, this carnivorous worm would have burrowed another inch into your body. If it were like others, with anesthesia and disinfection, you would have been burrowed into your brain by this worm long ago, understand?"
...