The Wayward Son

Seiras continued onwards as he navigated his way closer towards the bridge. Some of the women spoke briefly with each other on the way there, but most seemed anxious or shell-shocked still. He ignored their irrelevant conversations for the most part as they progressed.

He decided to psychically contact Ferrus along the way to make sure everything was going well, "How are things on the bridge, Lord Ferrus?"

Ferrus responded with curt calmness, "It's secure for the moment. A lot of these non-combatants were in the way. I ordered the soldiers to relegate them off of the bridge to some large chamber beneath us. The other exarchs are on their way here as well. Take the elevator up in that chamber once you reach it and you'll find us on the command deck. Some of the Eldar are piloting this ship. The Warp Spider is navigating us. We have no pursuers at the moment, but I expect we'll encounter some when we get closer to a webway gate. They mentioned you had something that could open a different webway path. Get here and bring it to them. We'll discuss what to do when all of you arrive. We're about thirty minutes out from the nearest webway gate, but don't waste too much time getting here, librarian. I have a bad feeling about all of this."

"I'm on my way right now, my lord. I'll be there in a few minutes. There's really no pursuers yet? That's strange…anything else I should know?" Seiras asked.

"A few ships fired on us, but they stopped their chase once we cleared the spire. The death of their archon has likely caused internal power disputes according to the craftworlders here. Even still...this seems too easy. We're obviously moving into a trap. I want you to convince these Eldar to take us to where those trapped space marines are. When we encounter the obvious enemy ambush, I want real firepower on our side," Ferrus commanded.

The librarian frowned beneath his helmet as he psychically responded, "Don't you think that's what Asdrubael Vect would expect us to do?"

"I'm counting on it. I have a plan for this. The haemonculus gave me a communicator and told me it would patch an encrypted message through to the archon, Lady Malys. From what it sounds like, Asdrubael Vect is concerned about facing her 'Talisman of Vaul'. After we discuss the plan with the exarchs, I intend to send a message to it telling her that we we're going to lure Vect to the trapped dimension where the Astartes fleet was. If nothing else, it will draw them into a full firefight with each other and allow us to escape with the Astartes fleet," Ferrus explained his plan.

"That's…an impressive scheme my lord. Though it relies on us trusting that this Lady Malys will actually show up. We can't underestimate Vect either. I saw their fleets battle once before. They are both intelligent strategists even by eldar standards. We can't expect them to reliably listen to us. It might be a good idea to convince them that we'll help them fight their rival. Dark Eldar are willing to make deals with the Imperium according to Melisara," Seiras noted.

"I imagine this Lady Malys will commit when she learns I am a primarch and that Vect is after us. If for some reason she does not show up, we will use the Astartes fleet as a distraction to escape. I don't relish the idea of wasting their lives, but they'll serve a greater purpose getting you and I out of here. I only hope it doesn't come to such crude math…but don't be surprised if it does. I want no sentimentality out of you. Our purpose is too important. Guilliman obviously needs my help in the wider imperium judging on the way these modern humans think and act. It disgusts me. If one more person calls me holy, I'm splattering them against a wall!" Ferrus elaborated further.

Seiras responded with calculated stoicism, "I don't question your logic, lord primarch and I don't believe you would throw away lives unnecessarily. Though I am curious…do you actually believe that the Khan is on Vect's Ziggurat?"

"You'll be able to confirm that with your psychic powers once we get in closer range of it I hope. Regardless of the truth, it is what I intend to tell that Astartes fleet. They'll believe it from me, and they will undoubtedly commit to attacking it," Ferrus answered.

"They were here looking for the Khan…so I imagine that would be beneficial," Seiras responded approvingly.

"I will see you when you arrive in a few minutes. If you have the time, try to alleviate tensions with your allies before coming up. Babysitting them is not something I'm going to waste my time doing," Ferrus ended their conversation.

Seiras was going to respond with another question, but he felt the psychic link immediately cut off against his own will. He found it confusing for a moment until he saw a familiar a figure was blocking his path.

He immediately recognized it was Meela. All of the women cringed in obvious contempt for her when they saw the pariah. Some even reflexively hid behind him as if they expected her to do something malicious. Meela was in her power armour but lacked any helmet or mask. She waved at them as the group stopped a few meters away.

She addressed Seiras in sign language, (I know you're busy, but do you mind if I speak with you for a few minutes? I might not get another chance before this is over. Things appear to be calm enough for now.)

"It's HER…" was all Sylea could say with disbelief, "she's alive?! I heard you killed the archon Lord Seiras, but you didn't kill her too?! We can't trust this evil woman. You have to kill her!"

Several of the others made similar comments, but Seiras quickly stopped them, "Be silent, all of you. Meela obviously has something important to tell me if she's here waiting."

This quickly silenced their uproar as most held their heads down in shame or fear from Seiras' uncharacteristic disgust at their antics.

Seiras glanced at Meela again curiously, (How did you know I was coming this way?)

(I can see your aura. It's brighter than anyone else's here except the primarch's.) Meela answered him.

He tilted his head in confusion, (Pariahs can see psychic auras?)

Meela nodded, (How do you think we find them so easily? Yours is bright enough to see through walls.)

Seiras hadn't bothered to look at her for this long or in depth before, but he found it somewhat easier to do without the collar on for some reason. Knowing what he knew now about his slight resistance to blanks, he was able to mostly dismiss his discomfort and unease. Seiras examined her features more closely than previous times. Other than her soulless amber eyes and disturbingly inhuman demeanor, she wasn't unpleasant to look at. Nevertheless, he still felt a knot in his stomach and a numb tingling sensation from her proximity. It was almost like the feeling of sedatives kicking in. Even through his helmet, he could almost smell her as well. This had been mostly unnoticeable before, but it seemed quite apparent now. She exuded some type of bizarre burning smell but it caused him to slightly shiver. It was a foreign and unpleasant sensation. Even the colours of the alien bulkheads nearby almost seemed to dampen in shades of vibrancy. It was almost as if his vision looked slightly darker.

(Assuming your eyes aren't closed, you're the only human I've ever met that can look at me this long. Although maybe it's offensive for me to consider you human? I've never encountered a space marine psyker before. Even still, I know you're a unique breed compared to others. I've never seen a psyker that could tolerate me at this proximity.) Meela gestured at him snapping Seiras from his distracted insight.

(What makes you think I'm unique?) he gestured back.

Meela shook her head, (Other than the fact that you can tolerate me, you're an incredibly restrained psyker. I know you're a decently powerful one and yet you scarcely use your powers. You almost tore a hole into the warp earlier, but afterwards you just used your powers defensively more or less. It's interesting to see a psyker of your level show such caution. At first I assumed that was simply because you were a space marine…but it's more than that. I get the feeling you're afraid of using it.)

(Are you calling me a coward?) he asked.

Meela stared at him stoically, (Not exactly…but it's clear you're haunted by something. The way you cast spells is similar to the way someone would walk on their toes to make no noise. Psykers usually only behave like that if they've had a close encounter with daemons or if they've seen other psykers become possessed. I know you're more powerful than you pretend to be is all I'm saying. I respect your mental discipline and your restraint in that regard.)

(My chapter master fell to chaos…so did most of the top librarians in my chapter. I was sent to the Deathwatch as a penance…and also because I can understand the eldar language. I don't really want to be a stronger psyker…I just use what power I have to effectively be a combat support asset.) Seiras decided to tell Meela.

Meela nodded in approval and followed up with some more hand gestures, (That aside, I see you managed to free these slave girls. I assume that means they hold some value to you?)

(For your own sake as well as mine, it's best that I don't explain anything. Is there something in particular you needed from me? I don't have all day to answer your questions.) Seiras responded in sign language.

(Are they pregnant? I can usually tell when women are. They have small glows in their abdomens. It is the formation of another soul.) Meela asked.

(You can see such things?) the Blood Raven gestured back. Despite his own priorities right now, he couldn't help but find it concerning that Meela had this insight and ability.

Meela nodded without responding. Her amber eyes glanced over the women again causing all of them to visibly tremble or look away uncomfortably. It was clear that they all despised and feared her.

"What is she saying Lord Seiras?! Is she talking about us?!" Corlina the planetary administrator risked asking. Seiras ignored her.

(Why would you bother saving them?) Meela asked with her silent sign language.

Seiras sighed silently as he responded to the pariah, (I should have just killed them all. My weakness will cost me I'm sure. Maybe I felt pity for them…it's nothing that really concerns you.)

(Are you the father?) the pariah motioned back. She had a genuine inflection of curiosity on her face which seemed quite rare. It almost made her look normal for a few seconds.

(Why would you assume that? I'm a space marine.) Seiras motioned slowly in response.

(I can't imagine why else you'd bother saving irrelevant civilians. Had you been a sentimental Astartes, you would have helped civilians indiscriminately. You showed no concern for most of the ones we left to die on the way here. You gruesomely murdered plenty in the slave chambers as well. These ones, however, were important enough for you to rescue.) she answered.

(Would you believe me if I said no?) he followed up.

Meela shook her head, (No, I wouldn't. I can tell when you're lying. Considering those are M-A-E-R-A-L-Y-A's slaves, you are the only likely candidate. She never let anyone touch them…but you did manage to kill her. You were also friendly with the haemonculus. It doesn't take a genius to figure out what happened. It is quite interesting all of them are pregnant though. I imagine their master ensured its success by increasing their fertility. Did she force you to do it?)

(Yes, she did. Do you honestly think I'd willingly commit this act? Disregarding that...why confront me with this now of all times? I assume you have some reason for doing so? It better not be some attempt to leverage influence over me. You know I could and would kill you if I needed to. I will if you force my hand.) he gestured a bit threateningly.

(It is simple curiosity. I am not here to condemn your decisions. Nevertheless, it shouldn't be possible. Was this part of your enhancement from the haemonculus?) Meela asked.

The librarian nodded his head but did not offer a response this time.

(How strange. Why did she do that?) Meela asked.

Seiras simply shrugged, (You've been around these aliens long enough to know that they have twisted minds. Your guess is as good as mine.)

(I wonder what those children will be like. Tampering with the Emperor's work isn't just heretical…it's dangerous. You're taking a great risk allowing them to live. Why save them? Why allow this dark heresy to follow you out of this nightmare realm? Had you wished to keep your heresy a secret, you would have killed them. Do you desire to have children? Do you hold some affinity for these women?) Meela questioned him.

(I don't know…a proper Astartes would purge the impurity. I think this place has twisted my mind in unexpected ways. Honestly, I have no idea what the right choice is here. These are innocent women, but is it truly right for me to allow this? Maybe I'm just too damned already…and I took pity. You think I should kill them? It is the safer option. Is that what you want from me?) Seiras gestured back.

(It's your decision to make. I am hardly on a pedestal of moral judgement. I find your views on humans interesting though. You have some measure of empathy for them…even though their lives mean almost nothing compared to yours. You don't behave like a typical Astartes should. Centuries of wisdom…a lifetime of indoctrination and experience…and you willingly risk your own honour and duty for their sake? You go against your entire philosophy, and you act like a flawed human with fallible emotions? Why? I've never seen a loyalist of your kind behave as you do. Your individualism, curiosity, and empathy are traits more commonly seen in Custodes. If you weren't a psyker, you would have made a good custodes I imagine.) Meela noted.

(The truth is…I was on a downward spiral even prior to coming to this realm. I think it would do me a lot of good to return to my chapter and distance myself from these weak human feelings of mine. I wasn't mind wiped as a child and that might be partially responsible for my defective indoctrination. It might even be the main flaw with my chapter in general. I might be suffering from some form of warp corruption as well. Nevertheless, I committed to this decision and now I must pay for its consequences…whatever they may be. I won't let it jeopardize Astartes secrets, my chapter, or the Imperium. I will kill these women without hesitation if I have to.) Seiras gestured back.

The women watched with genuine confusion at the wordless communication between the two. They were beginning to whisper amongst each other about what was happening.

"Sylea, do you know that sign language they're using?" Corlina asked the sororita genuinely interested.

The Sororita sighed, "No, unfortunately…I don't like this. Why is Meela even here? I've never seen her try to communicate with anyone before…other than the archon. I get the feeling she's trying to manipulate Lord Seiras. That insidious bitch wants to kill him because he's a psyker."

"Well ain't psykers bad though? My pa always told me that we gotta burn witches. I've never heard of an angel being a witch before…it just ain't right. Not that I'm ungrateful to the holy angel for savin us…it's just weird," Haylea Acacius, the farm girl added.

"You could be executed for calling a space marine a witch…Lord Seiras is a properly trained psyker and angel. Plus, he saved our lives in case you forgot! Also, the God-Emperor is a psyker as well from what I've been told. Maybe that slipped your mind, you airhead." Corlina stated with condescending arrogance to the lowborn farm girl.

"The God-Emperor ain't no psyker. He's a god…his power is divine and holy," Haylea countered.

Corlina rolled her eyes, "He IS a psyker…"

"I don't believe you, Corlina…" Haylea shook her head.

"Ask Sylea…she's part of the Ecclesiarchy, she would know," Corlina followed up.

The sororita shrugged, "I don't really know…Lord Seiras might."

"The Emperor is a psyker…the most powerful one in the galaxy," Seiras interrupted their argument bluntly in the hopes that it would shut them up.

Unfortunately, it had the opposite effect. Several more debates and arguments broke out from his comment. None of them dared to question him, but some seemed distraught about the idea. Seiras could unfortunately hear all of them, but he tuned the gossip out as he awaited Meela's response. His brief observation of the women did reveal something interesting though. Not one of them could look at Meela for more than a second. Most had their gazes averted from her as if she could turn them to stone.

Tira was the only exception to this…the assassin was standing directly next to him and was ignoring the others. She looked like she was slightly straining to keep her gaze on Meela. Even she had to look away every ten or so seconds. Her usual calm demeanor was replaced by anxiousness…as if she was trying to figure out what Meela wanted. Judging by how closely she had been watching Meela's hands, Seiras had a sneaking suspicion that she could understand their sign language.

(From what I can see, your psychic aura isn't corrupted thankfully…but you do act strangely for a space marine. I don't consider your decision some great sin, but it is concerning. Depending on how you intend to deal with these children, the situation could turn out to be beneficial or detrimental. So long as these women don't breed pseudo astartes mutants, they might be able to return to slightly normal lives. A fertile Astartes is something unprecedented though. It may be heresy in the eyes of some, but I imagine many in the Imperium would find it remarkable and useful depending on what the children are like. If they're mostly human, you could easily just create genetically compatible space marine aspirants by breeding. I believe if you sired normal male children, they would be 100% compatible with gene-seed. Does the primarch know?) Meela asked.

(No he does not. He does know that the haemonculus enhanced me though. He had some measure of tolerance for her deeds. She told me my progeny would likely just be regular humans with enhanced superhuman genes. It's not like they'll be born with progenoids or other implants…but I expect them to have some measure of superior genetics to basic humans. Assuming they don't become hulking mutants, I think it's preferable if I don't mention it to anyone. These children won't compromise Astartes creation secrets or genetics according to her. I considered telling the Inquisition, but that will likely go poorly. At best the Inquisition would execute me for heresy and at worst they would experiment on me for the rest of my life.) he gestured back.

Meela nodded, (That's understandable. Although morally you should tell someone. It would be extremely negligent not to. I was taught that Astartes were purposely made sexually non-compatible with humans so they couldn't fortify their ranks beyond controlled means. All of your potential sons could be turned into Astartes if given progenoids. Something like that…you…in the hands of traitors or Chaos Marines would be catastrophic. I doubt the Inquisition would offer you a penance crusade for that reason alone.)

(According to the haemonculus, my offspring will all likely be female. Something about my psychic gene alters my sex chromosomes. I was born from psyker inbreeding over dozens of generations. It created a mutation called the warp siphon. Unless there was a psychic mother, I doubt any of them will be male. I would need to breed with a female psyker to sire a male offspring. Discounting how rare they are, even that is only a percentage chance. My ability to breed is not nearly as dangerous as you may believe…though I have no idea what my daughters would be like. Part of me hopes they're mostly normal…and that they have no connection to me. It's likely a few of them will be psykers themselves. The Inquisition can take them if that's the case…and they don't need to know those children are mine. I will trust the process.) Seiras explained.

(These women are not equipped to raising a super human child or a potential psyker. If your offspring are all born female, I believe many organizations would still find uses for them. You should have them all sent to the Schola Progenium. The psychic ones would probably be turned into inquisitors. The others would be suitable candidates for the Assassin temples. They are almost as selective as Astartes are in their recruitment, and such offspring might have the proper genetics to a tolerate assassin training or enhancements. Most Imperial assassins are already equally as dangerous as astartes are. One with natural born super human genes would be even more lethal. You should at least tell the assassin temples.) Meela motioned almost enthusiastically.

Seiras found her new approval of the idea completely shocking. Considering how deep into heresy she was as well, he didn't entirely trust her optimism on the situation. There was no way he was going to willingly tell anyone about this.

(You're a bit too naïve if you think they would tolerate that! They would kill me for deviating from what I'm supposed to be. My chapter master warned me about how dangerous the assassin temples are. I'd sooner take my chances with the Inquisition.) he gestured back aggressively.

(Most temples would relish the chance to get unique and enhanced genetics in their agents. I am certain it would extend you protection and additional allies as well. The temples don't see things morally and most do things the wider Imperium considers heretical. They would see nothing but potential from cooperating with you. Especially if you're honest with them. Imagine what those deadly agents could do with baseline superhuman genetics in addition to their own. Those children would never get tired, they could endure more pain, go longer without food, and even have super human reflexes. They would be perfect for those temples. You should at least tell the V-I-N-D-I-C-A-R-E…E-V-O-R-S-O-R…and C-A-L-L-I-D-U-S temples. They would certainly keep your secret if you provided them aspirants. They might even ask you to help them breed more. You don't have to tell the Inquisition the children are yours, but the assassin temples would be a good alternative. Although I wouldn't tell the C-U-L-E-X-U-S temple. They would only be interested if you could breed pariahs. They would likely try to execute you. However, if you have the backing of the other three temples, they would be less likely to hunt you unless you turned traitor.) Meela suggested.

Seiras audibly growled in disapproval, (I have no interest in that! I think you've been in this place too long as well! How could I even justify this? It is degrading and perverse to think of myself as some…breeder! I am a weapon, and that is my purpose.)

(If you truly felt that way, then you would have killed those women already. You said it yourself…it's not like they will have progenoids or be compromising to Astartes secrets. You also have the backing of the primarch and will likely have diplomatic immunity from the Inquisition henceforth. This is a great chance for you to help the Imperium even further. I don't see this situation as black and white. You would greatly earn favor for the primarch by doing this for the Assassin temples and securing their allegiance. Plus you would help the Imperium as a whole by giving them even better aspirants to become agents and assassins. If you consider the big picture, I think the ends would certainly justify the means. Not to mention, it's also a good fail safe in case you become corrupted. Just think about it…at least keep that Assassin around until you've made your decision. She could probably speak on your behalf to her temple…or give you a way to contact the other ones.) Meela responded with a silent smirk as she glanced at Tira.

Tira looked a bit spooked when she saw Meela staring at her now. The assassin then refocused her gaze on Seiras. Meela followed up with more sign language, (It is likely that she understands Astartes sign language as well. She's trying her best to watch us. You can't fool me, Assassin.)

'It looks like I was right…Tira can understand Astartes sign language.' The librarian thought.

Seiras then looked at Tira. He would have spoken to her telepathically, but that was impossible with Meela this close. Instead he simply focused on her. He wanted to ask her outright, but he didn't want the other women to become curious about Tira knowing the sign language.

The woman put on a show as she feigned confusion, "What? Is she talking about me?"

Her back was to the others and Seiras could see a very subtle nod from Tira as she frowned and glared at Meela. This all but confirmed Meela's statement.

'How did Meela know she was a Callidus Assassin?! I wonder if Tira would approve of something like that? She sees things a bit greyer than most would. She had no objection to working with xenos to escape. She also didn't seem to disapprove of having a child with me,' Seiras wondered.

"What's going on, Lord Seiras? What did Meela say?" Sylea asked.

The librarian ignored her as he stared at Tira, "Meela says you know some people on Terra that can help us. Is that true?"

Tira seemed to understand that he was actually referring to the proposal Meela mentioned moments prior. The Callidus assassin shrugged, "That depends on if you decide to keep me around. If you're going to Terra, I might be able to contact some family members. I have no idea how they would react. Although you are connected to the primarch…and that would certainly pique their interest."

"I'll bring you with us when we go to Terra then…we can work out the details later," Seiras stated.

Tira glanced at him, "It's not up to me…but I'll ask anyways. Personally, I would support the idea. Although it would probably come with some serious conditions. They would definitely want to talk to you in excruciating detail."

"We'll discuss it later then," Seiras sighed.

"Wait! You know people from Terra?! I call bullshit…how does someone like you know anyone from the throneworld?!" Valeria interrupted disapprovingly.

Corlina stared at Tira confused, "How would Meela know that?"

"Meela told me she's from Terra as well and that Tira is a noble's daughter," Seiras made up a lie on the spot to deflect their confusion.

"What?! Meela's from Terra too?!" Corlina deadpanned.

Seiras nodded, "Meela is from the Sisters of Silence…an elite order of genetically modified female supersoldiers that used to guard the Emperor along with the Adeptus Custodes. From what I understand they had a base on Luna. She is a witch hunter and can weaken psykers as well. It's why Archon Faelan was obsessed with keeping her."

The librarian didn't bother explaining the pariah gene to them as he was fairly certain it was classified to civilians. Plus, it wasn't relevant enough to mention to them anyways.

(Actually only Oblivion Knights tend to have genetic modification. That tradition goes back to the days we served alongside the Custodes. It was a boon from the Emperor so that we could keep up with them. A regular sister is unlikely to have such enhancements.) Meela corrected Seiras as he glanced at her.

"Wait…so she served on the black ships? She's one THEM?! No wonder she's so creepy." Corlina seemed to have some basic understanding.

"I've never heard of someone able to weaken psykers. Witch hunters can do that?" Maesin spoke up for the first time since her near death experience. She seemed somewhat stable now and extremely curious about what was going on. She was staring intensely at Seiras hoping he would share more obscure information with them.

"So Tira…if you're a Terran noble, then why were you on my planet? You must be an important noble if Meela actually recognizes you." Corlina asked confused.

"Wouldn't you like to know? Maybe you shouldn't always judge a book by its cover." Tira shook her head.

Seiras was still shocked by Meela's insight about Tira and decided to ask about it, (How do you know she's an Assassin?)

(I'm an Oblivion Knight…I can see through everything. That drug in her: p-o-l-y-m-o-r-p-h-i-n-e…can alter her body, but I can see her aura. She is trained to fool psykers, but not blanks. A person's soul generally matches their body. Hers does not entirely match. It is suppressed and it fluctuates lightly like a ripple across a pond. That tells me she is trying to hide her emotions or fake them. It's also how I can tell when you're lying. From what I can discern, she is actually wearing her real form to hide herself from my detection. I have seen her kind before and all of them have souls that look like that. Her aura also changed shortly after she first realized what I was. It is likely she believed I was none the wiser. She thinks she's smarter than me.) Meela answered.

Tira sent a barely noticeable glare at Meela but didn't emote any obvious reactions for the others to ponder.

(She should consider herself fortunate that I never told anyone. I doubt that assassin trusts me, but I could have exposed her if I were truly your enemy.) Meela gestured at Seiras, but it was obvious the message was intended for Tira.

(So you can see more than just psyker auras? That's surprising. I had no idea pariahs had this ability.) Seiras responded with intrigue.

(All Warp sensitive beings have an aura. Pariahs see everyone as they truly are, and they see the auras around them. It is also how we detect emotions in others. People's auras change colour or shift when they experience certain emotions. Their auras usually dampen and drain into us pariahs when we get near them. Think of a black hole getting too close to a star and that is what it sort of looks like to us. This evokes a hateful and fearful response as a result. Most normal nulls subconsciously see these auras, but a trained blank or pariah can visualize them with clarity. To describe it in a better way…it's like I can see more than the visible spectrum of light. I see colours that I can't describe and that you can't visualize in people's auras.) Meela replied vaguely.

(What about me? What do I look like to you?) he followed up anxiously.

(Your aura is…unusual but beautiful. I've never seen one like it before in person. I have heard about auras like yours though. The sisterhood calls it a Glamour Aura. I believe it only manifests in people with the warp siphon mutation. You passively drain power from the warp and radiate psychic energy to everything around you. It's very subtle though. Unlike the psychic leaking of an unstable or untrained psyker, it radiates in a stable corona. To me it looks like you have an actual halo. I imagine this has a strong emotional effect on others…and they likely see you as beautiful, benevolent, and trustworthy. It has the complete opposite effect of a pariah's soul draining ability. You empower other beings with the warp. That is how Glamour Aura was described to me…but it's fascinating to see in person. This type of psychic radiance is similar to the Waaagh energy of greenskins…but it's not crude or ugly. It's quite refined.) the pariah explained in sign language.

(That's interesting. What does Lord Ferrus look like to you then?) he followed up.

(The primarch also has an aura like yours, and so did the Emperor according to legend. I believe living saints might have it as well, but I've never seen one to confirm that. It's usually considered holy by certain psychic cults. I've never heard of a space marine having it before. It's extremely rare in humans…even rarer than pariahs.) Meela noted.

Seiras knew he had to get moving soon to reach Ferrus on the bridge, but he couldn't help his own curiosity right now as he desperately wanted to know more. Hearing this perspective from a pariah was a once in a lifetime opportunity and it fascinated him to no end.

(Since we're on this topic, what do you see in these women? They have irrational hatred for you. Especially the sister. Why is that? They have described you as evil to me. Is that simply just because you're a pariah or did you do something to them?) he responded.

(Almost everyone considers pariahs evil and untrustworthy freaks of nature. The effect is even more potent on emotional people. They are all emotional...and they can't even look at me. If you weren't standing right here, they would have hysterical reactions at my proximity. That is also why the Eldar hate me…since they are extremely emotional beings. They are also terrified because pariahs can erase people's souls. As for how psychic nulls affect people in general, it depends. Weaker nulls might have some repulsive trait that manifests in any number of ways. This could be a horrid stench, bad luck, emotional vampirism, or simply just strong feelings of unexplainable resentmentm sewSM and anxiety. For a pariah like me, I evoke all of those reactions and more. I am not even seen as human…but rather an abomination pretending to be one. I probably look hideous or inhuman to them. Like a doll or statue with skin as one person described me once. I am curious to know what I look like to you though. You can probably see me as I really am to a certain extent. Those with glamour aura have a modest resistance to pariahs. That's undoubtedly why you can tolerate me.) Meela tilted her head.

(You're not hideous to me, but you are unsettling and strange. You look human, but you don't look natural. It's an eerie thing to describe. The statue with skin comparison is accurate.) Seiras answered honestly.

Meela nodded, (That phenomenon is called U-N-C-A-N-N-Y Valley. It's when something looks almost human but is fake enough to cause distress in the human mind. Pariahs often have that effect on others. I am saddened to learn that you see me that way as well…even if it is to a lesser degree.)

(You're nowhere near as eerie as some of the aliens I've encountered. I don't consider you non-human or a hideous abomination. You simply make me uncomfortable, and I don't like having my psychic powers cut off when you're this close.) Seiras clarified.

(I appreciate that, space marine. Forgive my self-pity. I feel stronger emotions around you. I was just curious if I was less disturbing to look at by someone with glamour aura. Judging by your civility, it would seem so.) Meela smiled almost warmly at him.

She might as well have transformed into a daemon based on how the various women flinched in disgust at her genuine smile. To them it probably looked sinister or monstrous.

(You have stronger emotions around me?) he asked.

(Yes, and that is due to emotional or soul vampirism. It's amplified next to you. Due to your condition, I never completely dissipate your aura despite draining it constantly in your presence. This also means the majority of my soul draining is focused on you. As a result, I experience more emotions from sapping your aura and the warp. It's sort of how you can't see a black hole unless it's consuming a star. Our interaction works both ways though…I weaken your psychic presence, and you weaken my null aura. Think of it like adding a negative and positive number together.) Meela noted.

(What else can you tell me about psychic glamour? Is it concerning to you?) Seiras wondered.

Meela shrugged, (Yes and no. Psychic glamour can be incredibly dangerous, but it is also incredibly beneficial. It's extremely rare for one with this ability to reach maturity without intense psychic and mental training. I've never heard of librarian having it either. My Sisterhood will find you remarkable.)

(Why would they find me remarkable? I assume most people would be appalled if they knew I had this psychic radiance.) Seiras asked.

(If Pariahs are like black holes, then those with psychic glamour are like white holes…a phenomena in astrophysics that most people have never heard of. White holes are the opposite of black holes. They constantly expel energy from a singularity. That is the best analogy to describe what you are in relation to how we each affect the warp and each other. You are constantly and passively expelling stable psychic power and I am constantly draining it from you. You are more powerful than I am and so I don't noticeably affect you as much as I would a regular psyker or person. Your mere presence fills the void around me somewhat. This is also why the Sisters of Silence did not affect the Emperor's psychic powers. We essentially zero each other out in direct proximity. If you were more powerful like the Emperor, then you could freely use psychic power directly in my presence…and if you were weaker, I would have a stronger effect and you would feel crippling agony right now. I believe two or three of my sisters would create that response in you…but I alone am not enough to cause you harm. Given your ability to occasionally use psychic powers within fifty meters of me, I believe you are a lower beta level psyker. It takes two pariahs to fully suppress a high beta, three pariahs to fully suppress an Alpha level, and a full squad to completely suppress an alpha plus level.)

'I suppose that explains why I felt crippling pain at Khaine's Gate, but I can stand her presence,' Seiras realized.

(I've never heard of a white hole before…but that is an interesting analogy to consider. So I'm like a living hole in the warp that is constantly radiating into the materium? No wonder the Eldar considered me dangerous. Your explanation makes it sound even more horrific. That must make my soul incredibly bright in the warp.) Seiras finally began to understand the horrific nature of his condition.

(It's bright in the Materium and the Immaterium. The greatest boon you have from this condition is it makes your psychic powers more stable, and it trains you to subconsciously filter the warp. You passively learn to use and tolerate the constant energy. Having this ability means you can safely grow in psychic potential slowly and indefinitely…a luxury no other type of psyker has. Given my current estimate of your age and the state of your powers, I imagine you were a Zeta level psyker two or three centuries ago. You're currently either high Gamma or low Beta. The sisterhood believes this is the reason why the Emperor is as powerful as he is…since he is tens of thousands of years old at this point. His powers have progressed far beyond Alpha plus levels in his lifetime. A full legion of Silent Sisters didn't even affect him. Glamour aura is also lucky…things you believe and hope for can occur. Miracles essentially…that is why I have a theory living saints have some form of it.) Meela motioned with a relaxed expression.

Seiras let out a heavy sigh, (So assuming I never die…I'll just keep getting more powerful? What if it gets to be more than I can handle? I'm a ticking time bomb.)

(All psykers are, but fortunately it's a very slow process. In the case of that happening, you should seek out the company of the Silent Sisterhood and live among them. By that point you could probably stand the presence of multiple pariahs. If you wish to die, then offering yourself as a sacrifice to the Golden Throne would be noble as well.) Meela motioned almost nonchalantly.

(I have one more question before we go…how was F-A-E-L-A-N able to stand being around you? From what I understand, Dark Eldar souls are already in constant soul decay. Wouldn't you expedite that process? Besides, I thought all eldar despised pariahs…he seemed to like you a great deal.)

Meela tilted her head, (If a dark eldar spends enough time around a pariah, their soul is essentially caught in our event horizon…using the black hole analogy. The process slows down, and they grow more tolerant of the dissipation. Eventually, they only feel emotions around us…and to an Eldar it likely twisted his mind into believing he had affection for me. My former master used to react to me like these women do, but he was strong-willed. He wanted to protect himself from daemons and psykers. For countless years he never let me out of his sight. That is the reason why he eventually began to like me. My constant presence had a positive effect on him. With his soul caught in my aura, he was immune to the soul decay. He actually realized that after he stopped decaying and it's why I was so valuable to him. I believe my long term exposure to his bodyguards and his concubine affected them to a lesser degree as well.)

(This has been an interesting conversation, but I really need to get moving now. The primarch expects me on the bridge soon.) Seiras gestured back.

(I hope I have a chance to atone for what I've done. I'll gladly serve you and the lord primarch. Don't fret too much over your condition. If you've survived this long with its dangers, then you are clearly capable of managing it. Considering the primarch trusts you, I see no reason why I shouldn't either. If you'll allow it, I will gladly keep your company for safety purposes until the time of my…sentencing.) Meela concluded.

'If I have that effect on Meela…then what does my glamour aura do to Aenaria I wonder?' Seiras pondered briefly.

"That is acceptable Meela, but I'd prefer if you keep some distance in the meantime. I will need to use my psychic powers to aid in our escape. We'll speak more later," Seiras spoke aloud to Meela before walking past her with a quick pace.

The pariah nodded as she stepped aside, (I'll wait around on the lower chamber a safe distance from everyone else. Thank you for talking to me. I hope we can do it again.)

"What was that all about? What did she say, Lord Seiras?" Sylea pressed her luck again and asked inquisitively.

Seiras glanced over the women now, "Nothing that concerns any of you. My curiosity got the better of me. Come…I'll leave you all with Major Medina and her Cadians. After that I need to see the primarch immediately. I've already wasted enough time with distractions."

As the group walked by behind Seiras, they all noticeably walked as far to the right of the hallway as they could to avoid Meela. The librarian was practically power walking at this point causing most to jog just to keep up.

Meela didn't budge at all, but her empty stare caused quite a few terrified and hateful remarks as they passed. All had glares and hastily distanced themselves from her. The further away Seiras got, the more they seemed to get upset and terrified of her presence.

Valeria was at the back of the group and was lagging behind the others as she tried her best to glare at Meela one last time. The gang leader flipped Meela off as she gained a safe distance and yelled at her, "I don't know what you told him, you freak…but don't think for a second I won't hesitate to blow your head off if you try ANYTHING! Do us all a favor and stay the fuck away! Nobody wants you around!"

The pariah evoked no emotional response, but she took one step towards her causing Valeria to immediately go running after the others as fast as possible. She yelped like a terrified schoolgirl as she sprinted to catch up with Seiras.