Segmentum Obscurus, Cadian System. Home to the Cadian Shock Troops, an elite regiment of the Astra Militarum few could hope to match. They safeguarded their home planet Cadia, a fortress world famous for its close proximity to the Eye of Terror and the rugged wargear produced in its manufactorums. Despite constant temptations from the Warp, Cadians maintained an unyielding faith in the God Emperor of Mankind. It was a perfect example of everything the Imperium of Man strived to be.

Ninety two million miles away, a massive revolt threatened the industrial world of Korolis. Armed rebels slaughtered the unprepared planetary defense force and executed their loyalist rulers. The Imperium, believing the traitors would soon collapse from resource shortages or infighting, chose not to intervene. However, the rebels had different plans. Orbital defenses and ground-based laser batteries were constructed by the thousands. Troops were conscripted and trained. Underground bunkers were linked together to form a planet-wide network. Soon, Korolis had its eyes set on conquest. Prosan, Solar Mariatus, Macharia, Kasr Sonnen, and Vigilatum were conquered in the span of a month. Four Cadian Shock Trooper regiments were sent to pacify the rebels, who at this point were equal to the best Imperial Guard units. Two regiments were slaughtered, while the rest sustained heavy casualties. It was the worst defeat in Cadian history.

The Imperium was quick to respond. Five Adeptus Astartes companies, sixteen Imperial Guard regiments, and three fleets were gathered in secrecy to form an overwhelming task force. Six regiments in particular stood out amongst the millions of untrained guardsmen. The Cadian Shock Troops, eager to avenge their fallen brethren, sent three exceptional regiments to form the main invasion force. With them were the Catachan Jungle Fighters, Elysian Drop Troopers, and Tallarn Desert Raiders, who would work in their favored environments to cripple the rebel forces. The last regiment belonged to a feared fighting force that emphasized strength and lethality.

The Death Korps of Krieg.

Battle was first joined above the besieged Kasr Holn, a fortress world three million miles away from Cadia. The rebel fleets, believing Imperial aid to be years away, were unprepared for a counterattack. Hundreds of ships were destroyed on both sides, but the loyalists endured. With a mix of strategy, firepower, and luck, the traitors were defeated. The battle dealt a massive blow to their navy, which no longer possessed the capacity to wage war. A year-long campaign began which saw the rebels lose world after world, culminating in a final battle above Korolis itself. What remained of the rebel fleet was destroyed, allowing the loyalists to begin an assault on the planet's cities. Each one fought tooth and nail, but the swarm of Imperial Guardsmen overtook them. Finally, the capital was surrounded and cut off from support. A massive artillery bombardment commenced. Celebrations broke out amongst the loyalist ranks. This campaign would soon be over.

F.O.B Emperor's Fury…

The forward operating base was in a festive mood. Commissars and guardsmen alike celebrated the battle's nearing end with liquor, music, and "fraternization" amongst the ranks. Even the stone-cold Astartes joined in, hosting fight clubs and marksmanship competitions. Their commanding officers turned a blind eye, not caring for the actions of their troops unless they damaged Imperial property or disobeyed orders. Everyone was having a good time. Near the armory, however, the mood was ecstatic. A lone Krieg guardsman stood shirtless in a makeshift boxing ring. He was five foot ten in height and possessed musculature that put some Custodes to shame. His right shoulder bore an aquila tattoo, the symbol of mankind. A thin veil of sweat covered his body, accentuating the numerous battle scars that lined his torso. Hundreds of guardsmen watched him atop Leman Russ tanks and Chimera APCs.

"Our Krieg guardsman has crushed the opposition, but can he win against his next opponent?" The announcer yelled through a megaphone. "From the Realm of Ultramar, we have Dresden Terros, a Scout Marine!" Everyone cheered and handed bets to their commissars.

"The Kreiger's dead meat, I'm betting on the Astartes." A guardsman muttered to his friend.

"Lukas, if you wish to forfeit, do it now. Nobody here will think any less of you." The Krieg guardsman, revealed to be Lukas, shook his head.

"I will endure." His voice was emotionless, but held determination. Nods of encouragement came from the dozens of Krieg guardsman watching.

"Contestants, make your way to the center of the ring!" Dresden emerged from the shadow of a Chimera APC. He was seven foot four in height wore a pair of camouflaged green pants. His exposed torso was just as, if not more paler then Lukas', and held musculature no mortal could ever hope to attain, much less survive. The crowd was silent. To see an Astartes in the flesh was a rare thing, indeed.

"Hello, Dresden." Lukas said, receiving a nod in response. Both knew each other from a previous campaign against the Necrons in Segmentum Pacificus, and considered each other close friends.

"What are you doing here?" Dresden said. His voice was deep and emotionless, sending chills down the audience's spine.

"My commissar ordered me to participate." Lukas responded. Dresden nodded and stretched his arms.

"Shake hands and prepare for the fight of a lifetime!" The crowd went from silent to ecstatic in seconds. While records did exist of guardsmen killing Space Marines, each kill was made at long range with a high-powered lasgun or heavy explosives. Most unaugmented humans stood no chance up close.

"Are you sure about this?" The Scout Marine asked. Lukas nodded.

"I am." The two shook hands and backed away. Lukas wiped the blood from his split knuckles and assumed a boxing stance.

"Let the match begin!"

Lukas and Dresden circled the ring's makeshift edges, moving closer to each other every second. Lukas feigned a right hook, causing Dresden to flinch and raise his arm to block. The Krieger kicked his exposed side and shovel punched his stomach, causing the Scout Marine to throw a jab and cross. He blocked each punch, but the force behind them made him stagger. Dresden took advantage and released a massive overhand, sending the Krieger flying backwards. Lukas jumped up and backed away, he couldn't afford to be offensive in this fight. Dresden charged forward with another overhand, which Lukas dodged. A smile crossed his opponent's face. I fucked up. He thought. The look in Dresden's eyes affirmed that statement. He brought his leg up and sidekicked Lukas into a Leman Russ tank. The blow knocked the air out of him, but didn't break any bones. On Krieg, recruits were given genetic augmentations to increase their strength, durability, and speed. While not as effective as a Space Marine's, they did their job. Lukas rolled to the side, avoiding a front kick that would've shattered his ribs like glass. He jumped behind Dresden and got him in a rear-naked choke. It lasted for ten seconds before he was thrown off, landing in the dirt with a thud. The crowd was silent.

"One, two...what's this? Our Krieg guardsman rises! The fight continues!" Lukas grabbed his dislocated shoulder and shoved it back into its socket.

"I'm impressed, Lukas. Krieg needs more Watchmasters like you." Dresden cracked his knuckles.

"You're not a Battle Brother yet?" Lukas responded. Dresden shook his head and raised his fists.

Lukas threw a side kick, which Dresden caught with his left arm. The Krieger grabbed his shoulder and bicep, preventing any attempts at a takedown. He moved forward, sliding his leg further into the Scout Marine's curled arm. He moved his hand to Dresden's neck and pulled downwards, kneeing his opponent in the face. Lukas stepped backwards and twisted his hand, forcing Dresden to the ground. He grunted and turned to face Lukas, placing his foot on his hip and hand around his ankle. The Scout Marine pushed with his foot and pulled with his hand, causing Lukas to land flat on his back. Dresden scrambled into an armbar position and leaned backwards, waiting for the Krieger to tap. Lukas, unfazed by the growing pain in his right arm, got on his knees and shovel punched Dresden's side. The Scout Marine showed no signs of pain, and increased the force behind his armbar. He continued punching, leaving a mark on his opponent's side. Dresden lifted his leg and placed it on Lukas' neck. Before he could react, the Krieger was slammed into the ground. His arm was pulled from its socket and shattered, producing a crack that made the audience cringe. Lukas grunted in pain and tried to get back on his knees, but Dresden's leg pushed him into the dirt.

"One, two, three, end of match! The winner is Dresden Terros for his unique armbar submission!" The crowd roared in approval. "Of course, we must give credit to our Krieg guardsman, who came close to winning!"

"You did good, Lukas." Dresden said.

"Thank you, Dresden." The former opponents shook hands.

"Someone get the Krieger to a medical tent. His arm looks broken." Two Cadian medics entered the ring and checked him over.

"Ten external bruises and lacerations on the knuckles. Scan him for anything internal." The other medic produced a black scanner from his kit.

"Hold still." A dim red light covered the Krieger's front side. "He's got a moderate concussion and a shattered right arm. Nothing we can't fix."

"Follow us." Lukas nodded.

Thirty minutes later...

Lukas left the medical tent with no visible injuries, save for his bandaged knuckles. The advanced capabilities of Imperial medicine had worked their wonders, healing his concussion and broken arm in under half an hour. He saw Dresden leaning against a wooden pole across from the tent, adorned in full scout armor. Lukas walked towards the Scout Marine, ignoring the looks he received from other Guardsmen.

"How is your arm?" Dresden asked.

"It's healed." He glanced at his wristwatch. "Curfew in six minutes."

"Let's go. You should be well-rested for tomorrow." They started walking.

"Tomorrow's battle marks the ending of our fifth campaign." Lukas said.

"A fitting end to this friendship, I suppose. You, a Krieg officer, and me, a Battle Brother. Our paths will never again intertwine." A frown adorned Dresden's face.

"Then we make the last moments count. The 83rd Regiment will be reinforced with two Astartes squads."

"I am aware. My captain informed me five hours ago." Lukas nodded. Both men noticed the increase of Krieg guardsmen around them.

"Goodnight, Dresden." The Scout Marine placed his hand on Lukas' shoulder before leaving.

Lukas received looks from thousands of guardsmen as he searched for his tent. He was surprised how fast word had spread of his duel with Dresden, but quickly brushed it off. Vital tasks needed completion, and gossip would set him back. There it is, number three fifty. He entered the open tent and zipped its entrance shut. His sleeping bag occupied the tent's left side, and almost reached the entrance. It was light tan in color and had extra padding for durability and comfort. Next to it was his rucksack, a leather pack reinforced with a kevlar weave. It's straps were attached to a utility belt with various pouches, a canteen, a sheathed bayonet, and an entrenching tool. His Lucius Pattern Lasgun, the standard issue weapon of all Krieg regiments, was strapped to the rucksack's side. It had increased stopping power when compared to other lasguns, but at the cost of ammunition capacity and automatic fire. These drawbacks mattered little, its stopping power made up for any defects. Lukas removed his pants and unzipped his sleeping bag. After climbing inside it, he drifted off to sleep.

Eight hours later…

Lukas was awakened by an incessant beeping sound. He unzipped his sleeping bag and sat up, flicking his wrist watch to disable the alarm. Without thinking, he left the tent and joined thousands of other guardsmen. Their collective destination was the shower hall, where they would clean themselves and shave. He entered an unoccupied stall and twisted the handle, releasing a stream of lukewarm water. It took thirty seconds for him to finish showering. After turning the water off, he wrapped a towel around his waist and began shaving, with the goal of finishing as soon as possible. While he did recognize the health benefits of personal hygiene, it took up valuable time and resources that were sometimes irreplaceable. It was best not to go overboard and stick to the bare minimum. The Krieger dried off and left the shower hall. He needed to get dressed.

Lukas buttoned up his basic green fatigues, which were lightweight and somewhat effective at repelling environmental hazards. Next came his flak armor, a common form of protection within the Imperium that could stop everything up to a heavy stubber. Against a lasweapon, it could only withstand glancing blows. He fastened the shoulder pauldrons, elbow pads, knee pads, forearm guards, and greaves to webbed sections of his fatigues. The Krieger checked everything over before attaching the final piece of armor, a carapace breastplate. Carapace armor was superior to flak armor, but cost more to manufacture and distribute. For that reason, it was reserved for Watchmasters and Officers of the Death Korps. He put on a pair of black gloves, white socks, and steel-tipped tan boots. Each item was waterproof and made to last.

The last piece of attire was his greatcoat, a thick olive green garment that offered complete protection against radiation, chemical, and biological threats. It also acted as a second layer of armor, able to stop hundreds of stubber rounds and several hits from a lasgun before failure. Two metal pauldrons covered his shoulders, both dark grey in color but different in size. The smaller plate had a white "83" printed on its exterior, while the larger one had the word 'WATCHMASTER" in all capital letters. In addition to all this, the greatcoat was waterproof, comfortable, and very warm.

"This is Commissar Hannibal. All Guardsmen must report to their mess halls by 0444. Over." A commissar announced through the base's Vox speakers. Lukas exited his tent and walked towards his assigned mess hall.

When compared to other regiments of the Imperial Guard, the Death Korps were often different in many ways. They never interacted with guardsmen of other regiments, instead choosing to keep to themselves. When in a crowded area, they sought out other Kriegers, like lost wolves searching for a pack member. Lukas was no different. Unfortunately for him, no other Kriegers were present.

"So I charged the filthy greenskin with nothing but an empty lasgun and my faith in the God-Emperor!" He ignored the rambling Cadian. While the Emperor was indeed powerful and wise, he was no god. Dresden had convinced him of that.

"Shut up Keld, all of us have charged an Ork before." Another Cadian quipped from across the table.

"What about that lad?" Lukas glanced upwards at an older man with silver black hair. "Yeah, you. Have you ever charged an Ork?"

"Never fought them." The Krieger replied emotionlessly. Everyone else nodded.

"Is this your first campaign? I don't mean to brag, but I've survived two so far." The once-rambling Cadian said with pride.

"I've survived four." Everyone stared at him with wide eyes and shocked faces. Surviving a single campaign was a miracle, but four? He might as well be an Astartes.

"How old are you, lad?"

"16." He looked downwards and resumed eating, unaware of the looks he received.

"Someone so young participated in four campaigns? Those Kriegers are a tough breed." One Cadian whispered.

"What did you fight, lad?" Lukas sighed. Cadians were overly talkative and idiotic.

"Faced Necrons twice, fought rebels and daemons in between." The Cadian nodded and started eating. At least one of them knows how to shut up.

"SHUT YOUR TRAPS!" A commissar screamed. Everyone looked at him. "All NCOs and commissioned officers are to report to their respective battle tents! Am I clear?!"

"YES COMMISSAR!" The entire mess hall screamed. Lukas got up and left.

"Wait, you're an officer?" The guardsmen at his former table asked. He nodded and left.

Battle Tent Delta Kilo 8…

"09993984-Finn, you will move through the sector F-1 and link up with squad three. From there, you will enter this skyscraper and clear it of all hostiles. The heretics have two hundred artillery pieces and thousands of snipers stationed there, which prevent us from moving troops through this shaded portion of the city. With it gone, we can secure the central roadways leading to the capitol building without fear of bombardment. After defeating the hostiles, you will hold the skyscraper until reinforcements arrive. This battle depends on you, and if you survive, I'll see to it that you and your squad are promoted. Expect support from three Grenadier squads and two Astartes. Dismissed." An officer said. He stood in front of a board with an overhead view of the capitol projected onto it.

"Why not destroy it with our own artillery, sir? Is there a void shield generator?" Another watchmaster asked.

"Yes, it is protected by a void shield. Five locations have them." He turned towards Lukas. "09831472-Lukas, you will move through sector I-4. These factories are producing munitions, and need to be destroyed as soon as possible. They are protected by void shielding and anti-air batteries, which prevent our bombers from crossing into sector F-1 and F-2. You will destroy the void shield and main reactor with pulse charges and cut any supply lines. From there, you will follow this yellow pipeline that will bring you into sector R-2's outskirts. Rest there and link up with the Tallarn Desert Raiders in sector I-2. You will receive further instructions from the platoon's CO. Be warned, there is a possibility of poison gas from sector F-1 drifting to your location. Expect support from a Grenadier squad and one Astartes. Dismissed." Lukas saluted and left the tent. Something told him that Dresden would be joining him on this mission.

Deployment tarmac, two hours later...

Lukas stood in front of fifteen elite Death Korps guardsmen. Eight men were Grenadiers, battle-hardened veterans who carried powerful Hellguns and wore full carapace armor. Five were normal infantrymen, the novices of this mission, and two were engineers. The final man was second in command, a Scout Marine named Dresden Terros.

"We have ten minutes before deployment! I want a final equipment check! All Grenadiers and Dresden, for now, this check does not apply to you!"

"Yes sir!" The Grenadiers and Scout Marine yelled. Everyone else, including Lukas, opened their packs.

"Lucius Pattern Lasgun, helmet, gas mask, the Krieg Uplifting Primer, and flak armor! If you forgot any of these things, Dresden will put a .75 caliber bolt through your head!" Everyone raised their hands, telling him they had their equipment.

"Five fragmentation grenades, three krak grenades, two photon flash grenades, poor weather gear, sewing kit, sleeping bag, mess kit, lamp pack, bayonet, and entrenching tool!" Each hand went up.

"Ten lasgun charge packs, canteen, multi-tool, four empty sandbags, blanket, medical kit, personal grooming kit, survival kit, two weeks of rations, weapon maintenance kit, and gas mask maintenance kit!" Each hand went up.

"The squad is combat ready, sir!" Lukas nodded. He donned his gas mask, which linked to his collar to form an airtight seal. A silent hiss told him it was working. He strapped his helmet on and moved to the Grenadiers. "Prepare for an equipment check."

"Yes sir!" The Krieger cleared his throat.

'Type IXV Lasgun, ten fragmentation grenades, five krak grenades, helmet, gas mask, entrenching tool, gas mask maintenance kit, short sword, and carapace armor!" Each hand went up. Grenadiers were always prepared for any mission. He would kill for the chance to become one again. "All of you are prepared for this mission! Gas masks and helmets on!"

"Yes sir!" The Grenadiers had their gas masks and helmets on in two seconds, a feat that took ten seconds for the normal infantry. They'll get the hang of it or end up dead.

"All guardsmen, please report to your transportation." A voice said over the Vox speakers. The hundreds of other units around the tarmac boarded planes, APCs, and light vehicles. Lukas would be taking a Gorgon APC with three other squads.

"Men, fall out!"

"Yes sir!" The group entered a Gorgon APC and stood at the back. After delivering a squad, the driver would retreat to a safe distance and restart the process. To ensure casualties remained at a minimum, each squad would be deployed to areas with natural cover.

"Take this. It's repayment for all the good times." Dresden handed him a beautiful golden pendant. Both sides had a silver Imperial Aquila clutching a flaming sword and banner in its talons. It looked very detailed, almost real. Lukas noticed the words, Regroup in Hell and Will of the Emperor inscribed on the banner. Behind it was the Emperor of Mankind. He stood atop a small hill behind a massive ship, holding a blue greatsword that was extended above his head. He was clad in silver Terminator Armor with a large cape and lightning claw. His face was turned away, but the Krieger could see his strong jawline and smooth skin. Anything else was concealed by the Emperor's long hair, which fluttered behind him. Hundreds of Ultramarines marched below him, Bolters held against their chests.

"...Beautiful." Dozens of guardsmen stared at the pendant in wonder. Lukas flicked it upwards. To his surprise, there was no glint.

"It's made of tinted aurumite and adamantium. No glint or reflection." The Krieger nodded and placed it around his neck.

"We're deploying now. The Emperor protects." The Gorgon's drivers said over a Vox speaker. Lukas tucked the pendant underneath his greatcoat and braced himself as the engines roared to life.

Outskirts of Sector I-4, Korolis Capitol…

Lukas glanced at his wristwatch. 0500, three minutes left. He looked to the side, checking his squad for anything wrong. Half were engaged in a group prayer to the Emperor, something he considered foolish. The Krieger shook his head and attached his bayonet to his lasgun. One minute now. He stood up and walked to the front of the Gorgon.

"One minute! Fix bayonets and form up!" The squad formed into a neat column and attached bayonets to their lasguns. Dresden loaded his shotgun and stood next to Lukas.

"You ready?" The Krieger nodded. He would redeem himself for the crimes of his ancestors, that much was certain. "Squad, disable safeties!" Dresden yelled. Silent clicks filled the cabin.

"For the Emperor." A Grenadier muttered. Bullets and lasfire ricocheted off the Gorgon's thick armor. An explosion rocked the vehicle, sending Lukas and his squad flying backwards.

"It's getting thick, prepare to disembark!" The driver said. Lukas nodded and scrambled to the front.

"Form up! We're deploying!" The doors opened, unleashing a tidal wave of stubber and lasfire into the cabin. Everyone rushed outside one by one.

Lukas and his squad sprinted towards a rock formation that would offer ample cover. He raised his lasgun and returned fire, hitting two rebels in a pillbox. A stubber round impacted his helmet and chest, sending him to the ground. Pain shot through his forehead and neck. The Krieger pushed himself up and sprinted to cover, where the rest of his squad waited. He glanced above the rocks and looked around. They were one hundred meters away from the enemy. No cover existed besides this rock formation. He ducked and gestured to five Grenadiers.

"Provide cover!" He yelled. They saluted and stood up, firing their Hellguns into pillboxes and machine gun nests. An engineer threw a krak grenade at a pillbox and ducked. They couldn't hear the explosion over the gunfire. "Move up!"

The squad advanced, running straight at the enemy positions. Stubber rounds bounced off their flak armor and greatcoats. One infantryman was unlucky and received a lasgun bolt to the face. His head exploded, splattering blood everywhere. Another infantryman grabbed the corpse and used it as a human shield. Dresden was the first to reach the enemy, unloading his shotgun into a trench. Lukas jumped over a line of barbed wire and into another trench, startling the rebels inside it. He saw their ragged uniforms and dirty weapons for a split second before landing. The Krieger rammed his bayonet through the flak armor of a machine gunner and twisted, puncturing his heart. He kicked the corpse off and turned around, firing two shots at a rifleman. One hit the traitor's arm, blowing it off with a sickening rip. A rebel fired at him with an automatic stubber, pushing him backwards. Three stubber rounds impacted his helmet, sending him to the ground. An infantryman saw this and opened fire, downing the traitor.

"DEATH TO THE CORPSE EMPEROR!" A rebel swiped at the infantryman with a chainsword, cutting through his shoulder and neck. "Weak Imperial scum!" He turned to face Lukas, who was still on the ground.

"Die, traitor!" He placed his left foot on the rebel's hip and hooked the right around his calf, making the traitor grunt. The Krieger grabbed his ankle and pulled while using his feet to push. In an instant, the traitor was flat on his back. He grabbed his entrenching tool and used the sharp side to hack at the rebel's face.

Lukas grabbed his lasgun and got up. His squad was scattered around the trenches fighting an unending horde of rebels. He reattached his entrenching tool to his belt and ran towards the nearest Krieger, a Grenadier locked in combat with two chainsword-wielding rebels. The Krieger rammed his bayonet through one rebel's back, making him scream in pain. He fired his lasgun and twisted it to the side, ramming the other rebel with his friend's corpse. He flung the body off his lasgun and fired at the dazed rebel, hitting his abdomen and right elbow. The traitor screamed in pain as his forearm detached from his body. He clutched the bleeding stump of his arm and fell to his knees, glaring at Lukas with defiant eyes. The Krieger kicked the rebel's windpipe shut and gestured for the Grenadier to follow him.

"Lukas! Two Grenadiers made it across the enemy lines! Gather the squad up!" Dresden yelled from atop a pillbox.

"Got it! Go help them!" Lukas ran through the trenches, gathering members of his unit. Two Grenadiers and one infantryman died in the assault. They took what they could and left the bodies.

Two Grenadiers stood in the middle of a trench supply road, firing their Hellguns into the unending horde of rebels. Lukas noticed their power packs were open, lighting a spark of nostalgia within him. When a Hellgun fires, it generates a large amount of heat. By opening the power pack, the heat could be redirected to charge the power cells and provide more shots. The Krieger used the trick quite often.

"You two, flank them." He said to a pair of infantrymen. They climbed out of the trench and used parked trucks as concealment. Lukas rushed up the road and took a knee, firing his lasgun at the rebels. He saw Dresden in one of the nearby buildings slaughtering rebels. A lasgun bolt struck Lukas' abdomen, pushing him back. Some rebels turned sideways, directing their attention to the two infantrymen.

Lukas got up, ignoring the increasing pain in his head and torso. He raised his lasgun and charged with a battlecry, inspiring his squad to do the same. The rebels had made a critical mistake, one that would cost them their lives. He stabbed one in the liver and slashed sideways, leaving deep gashes wherever he cut. A feral growl escaped his lips. He fired into the thinning horde, taking dozens of hits from lasguns and stubber rounds. Dresden emerged from a building and unloaded his bolt pistol into the crowd. One bolt went through ten rebels and a rockcrete wall. Needless to say, it didn't take long for the rebel force to expire.

"Where are we?" An engineer asked.

"This group of factories is guarded by three checkpoints. We're in the outer ring." An infantryman said.

"We move through the alleyways. Take their ammunition." The squad procured an extra eight power cells before vanishing into an alleyway.

Lukas pointed at a ladder next to a stack of wooden crates. A perimeter was formed as everyone climbed up. It appeared the wider base was now aware of them, so caution needed to be exercised to preserve the element of surprise. The Krieger detached his bayonet and snuck behind a rooftop guard. He placed a gloved hand over his mouth and plunged the blade deep into his neck. An engineer dragged the body away. Only two more rooftops to go, then we'll be in the perfect position. The squad leapt across the rooftops and assassinated dozens of guards. Soon, they were all on the final rooftop, which overlooked the void shield generator and armory.

"Grenadiers, firing line." The remaining Grenadiers moved to the rooftop's edge and aimed their weapons. "Engineers, ready grenade launchers." The engineers removed their packs, which contained nothing but grenades, and readied their launchers. "Fire!"

A hail of lasfire and krak grenades rained down on the armory. Rebels were torn to shreds or vaporized by grenade explosions. Some tried to form a resistance, but the Grenadiers ensured that wouldn't happen. Meanwhile, Lukas and the other infantrymen were protecting the rooftop from intruding rebels.

"I'm hit." An infantryman said. Lukas nodded and ordered a Grenadier to cover for him. Under normal circumstances, he would just kill the soldier with a bayonet to the throat, but every man was needed for this mission. He got lucky.

"Hold still." A gaping hole adorned his right shoulder plate. The stubber round managed to hit a weak spot and appeared to be stuck in his collarbone. Lukas removed the infantryman's medical kit from his rucksack and pulled it open. He produced sterile tweezers and reached into the wound, pulling the stubber round out in one fluid motion.

"Lukas, the void shield is down." Dresden said. Lukas nodded and injected the infantryman with a healing agent. After bandaging the wound, he stood up and reattached his bayonet.

"Get your medical kit sealed." Lukas turned to the rest of his squad. "We're heading to the main reactor. Shoot anything that moves."

"Yes sir." Everyone said.

Lukas saw a massive white cloud approaching his location from the East. He pulled a white plastic strip from his utility belt and held it in the air. It turned light red after five seconds, signaling the presence of poisonous gas. If he were to guess by the color, chlorine gas. Everyone else noticed and checked the seals on their gas masks. Dresden grabbed a mask from his belt and placed it over his face.

"Must be from the East. My captain said they would be gassing sections of the city." Dresden said.

"So did mine. Move out." Lukas replied. The squad leapt down. A single rebel groaned in pain, unaware of his missing lower half. The Krieger saw bits of his charred intestines scattered around the rooftop, and a pool of blood and other fluids around him. Dresden placed his foot on the rebel's head and pushed.

"Traitorous bastard." He gradually increased the pressure, causing small cracks to form in his skull that made the rebel cry out in pain. "For the Emperor." He removed his foot and aimed his bolt pistol at the man's arm. He fired, detaching the limb, and walked away.

"Good job." Lukas said, patting the Scout Marine's back. They ignored the rebel's cries.

The squad stood on a catwalk just above the factory. Thousands of workers went about their duties, unaware of the Kriegers above them. Lukas ordered the engineers to use fragmentation grenades for their launchers. He stood with his back faced to the squad, guarding the catwalk for any rebels. An infantryman tapped his shoulder and signaled "ready". He nodded and pointed at a group of promethium tanks. An engineer aimed his grenade launcher and fired, engulfing half of the factory in flames. Workers and rebels alike scrambled everywhere for cover. Some lasfire impacted the catwalk, melting the metal safety rails. The remaining infantrymen knelt down and fired back.

"Dresden, get down there." Lukas said. Dresden nodded and jumped off the catwalk. He drew his combat knife, a blade that rivaled a short sword in length, and charged the enemy. To everyone else, he appeared as a green blur.

"FOR THE EMPEROR!" The Scout Marine slashed at a rebel holding a longlas and kicked another into the wall. Three more were killed by his bolt pistol. Another charged with a combat knife, stabbing him in through a weak point of his armor. Dresden turned around and backhanded him, twisting his neck and sending him flying. An infantryman shot a rebel holding a plasma gun, but the traitor lived long enough to fire three shots. They impacted Dresden's back and lower leg, sending him to the ground. A trio of lasfire bolts impacted the rebel, causing his plasma gun to explode, pushing the Scout Marine against a wall.

"DRESDEN!" Lukas yelled. The Scout Marine groaned in pain and attempted to stand, but his wounds were too severe. He collapsed and ceased all movement. "Grenadiers, move up! Engineers, get to the reactor! The rest of you, keep the rebels off this catwalk!"

Lukas entered a maze of pipes, conveyor belts, and industrial tanks. He moved around a promethium tank and fired, hitting a factory worker in the chest. The woman raised her bloodied hand and whispered something he couldn't hear. The Krieger plunged his bayonet through her skull and continued onwards. A rebel jumped out at him with a hammer and nail gun, swinging at him with reckless abandon. He ducked under the swing and slammed the butt of his lasgun into his opponent's liver. The traitor backpedaled and fired his nail gun. Each shot bounced off his helmet and greatcoat. Pitiful traitor. He stomped on the man's throat and left him to choke. Lukas jumped over a red pipe and looked upwards. The infantrymen were fighting off dozens of rebels by themselves. One slashed a rebel's throat with his bayonet and knocked another out with an uppercut. They've been trained well. If they survive, I might recommend a promotion to Grenadier. Dresden's harsh groans were getting louder.

"It's the Watchmaster! Cease fire!" A Grenadier yelled. Lukas rushed around and corner and knelt next to Dresden.

"Bastards." He muttered. The Scout Marine had three fourth-degree burns, two on his mid to lower back and one on his calf.

"Lukas...is that you?" The Krieger nodded and injected Dresden with healing agents. Even a veteran Astartes couldn't heal from plasma wounds without medical assistance.

"Sir, the rebels are counterattacking!" An infantryman yelled.

"Tell the engineers to detonate the melta charges, and to hurry up with the reactor!" The Grenadier nodded and ran down the catwalk. Before they entered the building, Lukas had ordered the engineers to plant melta charges around the factory's perimeter. Nothing would survive the ring of explosions.

"DIE, IMPERIAL SCUM!" A rebel sergeant rushed towards him. One hand was adorned with a lightning claw, and the other held a chainsword.

Lukas ducked underneath the blade and fired his lasgun at the rebel's side. To his surprise, the shot didn't penetrate. Bastard has carapace armor. He rolled backwards and fired six times, but each shot did nothing. His lasgun clicked, signaling it was out of power. The Krieger cursed and charged forward, bayonet aimed for the man's heart. The rebel raised his foot and slammed it down, pushing his bayonet into the ground. Lukas had no weapons. The traitor growled and pressed his attack, swiping at him with his lightning claw and chainsword. He grabbed his entrenching tool and slashed at the rebel's chest, cutting through a thin layer of armor. The rebel thrust his chainsword forward, which he evaded with a role. The Krieger slashed and hacked at the man, trying to get through his armor. He left only scratches.

"Fool! Nothing you have can penetrate my armor!" Lukas glanced over to Dresden's still form, and noticed his bolt pistol a few feet away. He kicked the rebel's head and sprinted towards it. The Krieger rolled to the left, evading a flying chainsword that embedded itself into the wall.

"For the Emperor!" Lukas screamed. He picked up the bolt pistol and fired a single shot. The .75 caliber bolt went through the rebel's chest and three conveyor belts before stopping. He reattached his entrenching tool to his belt and grabbed his lasgun, replacing the dead power cell with a fresh one.

"...Nice shot." Dresden groaned. He grabbed the bolt pistol and attached it to his belt. Lukas placed his hands under Dresden's shoulders and hauled him through a massive hole in the wall. His squad rushed outside through a door, firing at a rebel vehicle that was speeding towards them.

"Get its tires!" A Grenadier yelled. The truck turned around and stopped, revealing a heavy stubber. His body was riddled with stubber rounds, penetrating his carapace armor and killing him. Dresden raised his bolt pistol and fired a round, killing the machine gunner and driver.

"Squad!" Lukas yelled. They turned around with their weapons raised, but lowered them as soon as they saw who it was. "You two, get over here!" A pair of Grenadiers ran over and helped them haul Dresden to the truck.

"Sir, may I recommend commandeering the enemy vehicle?" A Grenadier asked. Lukas nodded.

"How many did we lose?" The Krieger asked.

"Sir, including this one, we've lost three Grenadiers. Eight men are left, and two are wounded." An infantryman said.

"Get in the truck." Five men got into the truck, and three rode in the back. Dresden had gone unconscious again, and was slumped in the back. Lukas manned the heavy stubber, and a grenadier assisted him with loading.

"We're all set, sir! The melta charges and pulse charges should detonate in two minutes!" An engineer behind the wheel yelled.

"Drive us to the yellow pipeline!" The engineer nodded and floored the gas pedal.

A deafening explosion awoke Dresden from his unconsciousness. He raised his head and looked at the massive fireball behind them. Five seconds later, the shockwave arrived, collapsing weaker buildings, shattering windows, and pushing the truck to the side. The driving engineer twisted the wheel, avoiding a catastrophic collision. Lukas glanced at Dresden from underneath his gas mask.

"Did we do it? Is the reactor destroyed?" Dresden asked.

"It's gone now." Lukas fired a burst of stubber rounds at a squad of rebels, killing most of them. "We're heading to the transportation depot. It should be heavily guarded."

"I see." Dresden examined his bolt pistol. "Thank you for dragging me out of there."

"You've done the same for me." The Scout Marine chuckled.

"Segmentum Ultima was a hellhole." Lukas nodded in agreement. He still had the scars to prove it.

"Sir, we're closing in on the transportation depot. Should I stop?" The driving engineer asked.

"Full speed ahead. Everyone, prepare yourselves." The Grenadiers stuck their Hellguns out the windows. "You two, get down." The two infantrymen knelt down and raised their lasguns. Dresden flipped over and readied his bolt pistol.

"After these two buildings, we'll be there!" Another Engineer yelled. Lukas nodded and readied the heavy stubber. Five, four, three, two, one.

The truck drove through four lines of barbed wire and sandbags, flattening nine rebels who were unlucky enough to be guarding it. Lasfire, bolts, and stubber rounds impacted the rebel's positions, killing some and forcing others into cover. Dresden shot a traitor holding a rocket launcher and one running towards the truck. Lukas felt satisfaction upon seeing the carnage. They asked for this by rebelling against the Imperium. Everyone disembarked from the truck and walked into the depot, their weapons raised. Dresden's wounds were healing, allowing him to walk with a noticeable limp. A Grenadier opened a door and was blown to pieces. Only seven men left, including Dresden. The squad moved against the walls. An engineer glanced inside and received a stubber round to the head, knocking him backwards. Dresden grabbed him before he fell. The Krieger removed a fragmentation grenade from his belt and threw it into the room. After the explosion, another engineer checked the room. Blood and entrails were splattered everywhere.

"Engineers, plant melta charges. Kill anything that moves." They nodded and began placing melta charges on the walls. "Dresden, stay here. The rest of you, follow me."

Lukas kicked down a metal door and began shooting, killing a rebel hiding behind a desk. These traitors are too cowardly to face us. Disgraceful. An infantryman kicked down another door and grabbed an old man by the neck. A Grenadier drew his combat knife and placed it on the man's cheek. He whispered something into the man's ear and dragged the blade across his cheek, spilling blood. The Krieger turned around and ignored the man's screams. He won't even try to fight back. Shameful traitor. Everyone continued down the hallway once the screams stopped. Lukas saw Dresden and the engineers leaning against a wall.

"All our charges have been planted. May I start a three minute timer?" Lukas shook his head.

"Dresden, if you may?" The Scout Marine nodded.

"We'll follow the pipeline with the truck and cut into the residential district! It will take an estimated four hours for any Imperial Guardsmen to reach our position! I recommend using that time to rest, you will need it for what comes next!"

"Yes sir!" The squad yelled.

"Set the melta charges." Lukas ordered. The engineers pressed a button on one melta charge and nodded. "Move out!"

Sector R-2, Korolis Capital…

Lukas glanced around the cellar. Dresden was sitting on a metal crate with his disassembled bolt pistol before him. He watched as the Scout Marine cleaned the weapon's parts with practiced precision and speed. I should clean my weapon as well. The upcoming battle will wreak havoc on it's internal systems. The Krieger produced a grey metal tin from his pack. It was labeled "Maintenance Kit" in black letters. He pulled the airtight lid off and set his lasgun in front of him, using a screwdriver to open the maintenance port. Each lasgun had unique screws that could only be opened by one screwdriver. This prevented tampering or reverse-engineering by species of lower intellect. Lukas put the screwdriver back in the kit and grabbed a cotton swab. He dipped it in oil and rubbed the two diamond focusing lenses. After three minutes of cleaning, he placed the swab and oil back in the maintenance kit. Next came the power capacitors and energy regulators. The Krieger examined them to check for damage, and upon seeing their pristine condition, nodded. He screwed the maintenance panel shut and poured a small amount of acid down the barrel, which vaporized any fragments interfering with the firing process. With that over with, he leaned the lasgun against the wall.

"You should sleep." Dresden whispered. The Krieger nodded and placed his sleeping bag on the floor. He got in and used his rucksack as a pillow. He fell asleep in seconds.

Three hours later…

Lukas' eyes shot open. It was time to move out. He got up, stretched his body, and reattached his sleeping bag to his rucksack. Dresden handed the Krieger his lasgun and began waking up everyone else. He's got a limp, but it appears to be healing. He glanced down at his watch. 2100, one hour before the main invasion force arrived. The Elyssians and Cadians were too concerned about losses to win any battles fast enough. In all likelihood, the Catachan Jungle Fighters and Tallarn Desert Raiders were leading the charge. Lukas viewed them as equals to the Death Korps of Krieg, and in some areas, superior. Between him and a Catachan in unarmed combat, he would lose. Badly.

"Squad, prepare to move out in five. Do not speak and keep noise to a minimum. Preserve the element of surprise ." Lukas whispered. Everyone saluted and went back to packing.

"Lukas, movement outside." Dresden whispered. Everyone froze and raised their lasguns.

"I hear it. Keep everyone alive." The Krieger raised his lasgun and moved up the stairs. His footfalls were silent.

Lukas pushed the wooden door open and moved down the hallway, sticking to the wall. Two rebel soldiers were playing a card game in the kitchen. Their flak armor was torn and burnt, exposing dirty skin underneath. One had a bloodied rag taped to his head, and the other wore a commissar's cap and had a bolt pistol on his hip. The Krieger pondered on what to do. If he stabbed one, the other would react and call for help. He was unsure if any more rebels were in or around the house. Shooting them would be worse, not only would they be screaming, but his shot would attract rebels like flies to animal manure. A loyalist bomber flew above them, creating a deafening sound. This was his chance. Lukas emerged from the shadows and killed one of the rebels, alerting the other. He raised his bolt pistol and fired, hitting a vase next to him. The Krieger rolled to the side and fired a single shot, impacting the rebel's head. He walked over to him and searched his body. Bolt pistols hold ten rounds, and I have three full magazines. Thirty rounds total. He placed the magazines in his utility belt's ammunition pouches. Next came the bolt pistol.

"Nice." The Krieger whispered. It was thinner than an average bolt pistol, and somewhat sleeker. He placed it on his utility belt and left the room.

Lukas checked the entire house, and found no rebels. He opened the cellar door and announced himself, lest he be vaporized by lasfire. Everyone packed up the last of their belongings and went upstairs. The Krieger bent down to retrieve his rucksack, exposing his bolt pistol. Dresden noticed and walked over to ask about it.

"On one of the rebels, I assume?" Lukas nodded.

"It belonged to a commissar, no doubt. Bastard must've picked it off his body." Dresen opened a pouch on his belt. "What are you doing?"

"Take these." He dropped thirty bolt rounds onto Lukas' rucksack. "They're my spares. Your bolt pistol was made for unaugmented humans, so the magazine sizes are different. Rounds are the same, though."

"Thank you, Dresden." The Krieger placed them in an empty pouch on his utility belt. "Let's move out. We're linking up with a platoon of Tallarn Desert Raiders."

Sector F-2...

The Astra Militarum was not having a good time. Chaos had taken the opportunity to mount an offensive, sending hundreds of fleets to pierce the Cadian Gate. Half of their naval warships were reassigned to the unfolding battle, leaving millions of guardsmen without support. It appeared the Korolis rebellion was aided by Chaos, explaining its success earlier on. Lukas would ponder this later, right now, he was locked in a firefight with a Chaos Marine. He emerged from behind a pillar and fired his lasgun, piercing a weak point in the Chaos Marine's armor. The traitor staggered back and grunted in pain, giving him precious time to relocate. This was a battle of strategy and wits. The Chaos Marine ducked behind a pile of debris and fired his Bolter into random areas, none close to his hiding spot. The Krieger crawled behind a burning truck and fired again, hitting another weak point. He can't keep this up for long.

"DIE, KRIEG DOG!" The Chaos Marine emerged from cover and fired his Bolter at a building near him, shattering glass and rockcrete. Lukas heard a clicking sound and saw his opponent was out of ammunition. "DAMN PIECE OF SHIT!" The traitor yelled.

Lukas emerged from cover and fired ten shots at the Chaos Marine. Each shot hit the same weak point, further damaging the traitor's power armor. The Krieger growled and charged forward, bayonet aimed at the hole in his opponent's armor. He pushed the blade as hard as he could and twisted it, forcing the Chaos Marine back. I had practice with Dresden, now I put what I learned to the test. He fired his lasgun until the power pack was depleted, and backed off. After reloading another pack, he fired again.

"CEASE, CORPSE WORSHIPER!" The Chaos Marine threw a kick, which Lukas dodged.

"Die!" The Krieger fired another seven shots, bringing the Chaos Marine to his knees. He tore off the traitor's helmet and slammed his bayonet through his skull, ending the battle. Lukas found two magazines of bolt pistol ammunition on the corpse, which he stowed away in his utility belt.

"Lukas, where are you!" Dresden yelled.

"Over here!" The Krieger responded. Dresden emerged from a nearby alleyway. Under the coating of dirt and grime, he could see the Scout Marine's armor was worse for wear. Spider cracks had formed around fist-sized dents, and the lower half was charred black.

"We need to link up with the platoon. Where is it?" Lukas gestured for Dresen to follow him.

"We can't stay out here, too exposed." The Scout Marine nodded in agreement. "But to answer your question, scattered or dead. The initial explosion killed some and forced the others apart. Where did you end up?"

"Sewers. Chaos Marines are everywhere down there. I got a Bolter and more ammunition for both of us." Both men paused. A faint whistling sound filled the air. "Artillery."

Lukas and Dresden sprinted into a building. The whistling got louder with every passing second. Soon, it was all the could hear. The Krieger dove under a metal desk and covered his head. Just like basic training, except the drillmasters used more powerful shells. A flurry of explosions and shockwaves shook the building, collapsing some of the foundation. His instincts screamed at him to roll away from the desk. He did, and avoided a giant plasteel beam that would've crushed him. Dresden emerged from underneath a table and raised his Bolter, searching the area for any hostiles. Both men checked themselves and their equipment over. Everything seemed to be in working order, but something was off with the filtration box of Lukas' gas mask. A dial on the box's front side was ticking. It had two arms, one to measure radiation and the other to measure air toxicity. The latter dial was up to fifty.

"There's increased air toxicity here. Is your mask working?" The Krieger asked.

"It's working." Dresden stood next to him. "I don't know if that barrage was ours or theirs."

"Assuming our main camp hasn't been overrun, it was ours." Lukas glanced around. "There are hundreds of Guardsmen and Astartes still fighting in the city. If we consolidate them, the Imperium has a chance of winning."

"How do you know this? We weren't issued radios." Dresden asked

"I overheard it between two Chaos Marines." Lukas replied.

"They might be based in the financial district. We should recon the area to be sure."

"I agree. We should also find radios to contact the survivors." Lukas said. Both men left the building and rushed down the street.

Little did they know, this was the start of a life-changing event.