The World Engine (Space Marine Battles) by Ben Counter

Author:Ben Counter [Counter, Ben]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Publisher: Black Library
Published: 2014-12-14T16:00:00+00:00

Addendum Auxiliary

During the last contact, a layer of perception was located that did not correspond to the chronological series previously comprehended. This layer was consistent with autoseance training suspects who possessed vivid memories of an emotionally significant or traumatic nature that were replayed or re-experienced in times of extreme mental stress. That a member of the Adeptus Astartes might succumb to such extremes of stress would previously have been unthinkable to this functionary, but given the contents of the associated contacts she now thinks it possible.

Though this memory’s significance is unknown, the Emperor looks with favour upon those who perform their duty with thoroughness and completeness as well as zeal and so it and its associated fragments were recorded in accordance with this functionary’s orders. This task was performed during mental hygiene procedures following the previous contact and so was completed without interference in this functionary’s principal duties.

Black water flows through the streets. The hive sump has breached the lower levels and the effluent canals are overflowing. The population courses for higher ground, where the gun lines are waiting for them. As I watch, I can see the deaths of each one as a single bullet cuts through each thread.

The rings of Obsidia pass over the battlements of the fortress. The Chapter traditions demand we take to the rooftops and fight until the rings have moved out of sight, at least two days. The people of the city watch us, and try to spot their sons and brothers among the duellists. Most of us cannot be recognised any more.

I should flay the sin from my body. The flail in my hand and the blood on my back would give me a sense of righteousness. But this is not a shame that can be scoured away. It can only be put right. I walk from the scourging-hall and envy the brothers who can absolve their failures with pain.

Physical recovery procedures were undergone when mental hygiene was complete and the required rest period commenced. Given the presence of such mental stress on the part of the autoseance subject, this functionary must prepare for future contacts to become more strenuous.

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