The Alcatraz Group
Rusheim bustled with activity as it became apparent that the Imperials were settling in for the long haul. The Raven Guard and Ultramarines, aided by operatives from the Vigil Operatii, began sweeping for any hidden Coalition operatives among the populace to prevent any information leaks for as long as possible.
It didn't matter. According to Alcar and Morningstar, Coalition spies would not be a concern. The Farseer and the God already identified several cells of infiltrators and sleeper agents, which, upon informing the Ascalin Ministry of Intelligence, swiftly neutralized or, in some cases, co-opted under Morningstar's guidance.
Morningstar was certainly the man of the hour, more so than the Primarchs. Corvus and Roboute had seen the looks that mortal humans gave him whenever he entered a room or spoke, becoming the
star attraction in most cases. The Astartes were still confused, not sure what was so magnetic about the man to the mortals. A few even remarked that these people were acting like two demigods weren't on their little forgotten planet.
Corvus couldn't shake his growing suspicion of Morningstar, but he had learned to approach all the gods cautiously, knowing that Venus, Cegorach, and Morningstar had agendas. The outlier in this situation was the Lord of Gears, who focused more on collecting memories and aiding his people. He didn't seem interested in schemes or plots. A good thing, for it was unsettling to consider what ambitions a god of memories, histories, and legacies might harbor.
Despite his misgivings, Morningstar cooperated fully with the Imperium, allowing Corvus to focus on more pressing matters. Since he would directly support his brother for the foreseeable future, he had to delegate tasks to his sons while overseeing other compliance efforts. Fortunately, Ravenloft requires minimal supervision these days, though they still keep him informed of new developments.
During the recent rounds of reviewing over the 200 plus compliances, Corvus noted that amid the ongoing tasks and crises, he saw recurring name cropping up across multiple compliances, even those unrelated to his legion: Alcatraz.
A strange name and the situation intrigued him, especially after his sons contacted a group in the Neuturn Hexarchy claiming to be an element of this group. They were descendants of an organization from the Dark Age known as The Alcatraz Group, and what was equally amazing was that these people continued their ancestors' mission with remarkable dedication and proficiency.
Their facility, Penitentiary India-Delta-286, was located deep in a dead world but was an underground hive spire, home to almost 50 million individuals who were part of the greater effort to maintain the facility.
Considering what they kept contained, Corvus thought these people were doing a great service to the galaxy. This facility housed not only dangerous creatures but also some of the most terrifying biological, technological, warp, and cognitohazard horrors yet encountered, and they had managed containment for over 6,000 years with remarkable success—a discovery that held immense potential for the Imperium and Ravenloft alike.
Furthermore, their records purported thousands of such facilities scattered throughout the galaxy. Corvus found it difficult to fully believe such a claim until he reviewed ancient star charts that hinted at the veracity of their assertions. Yet, the revelation left him perplexed. How was it that the Imperium had only now stumbled upon this information? It controlled hundreds of thousands of star systems.
Speculations swirled in Corvus's mind. Perhaps the Emperor and Malcador had been aware of the Alcatraz Group but kept it concealed from the wider populace. Maybe the Martian Brotherhood kept it secret as well. Such secrecy wouldn't have been out of character for the Emperor or Kelbor-Hal. Nonetheless, the discovery presented an extraordinary opportunity and a pressing need for further investigation.
Corvus soon held concerns that not every facility had endured like Penitentiary India-Delta-286. The possibility of breaches seemed more likely given these facilities' contained countless horrors and nightmares. It was impossible not to imagine such a scenario.
Consequently, Corvus issued new directives to Ravenloft and his legion, tasking them with assisting in any compliance efforts related to the Alcatraz Group and urging them to relay their findings swiftly through Aeldari channels. He refused to rely solely on more conventional means of communication; otherwise, he could have been waiting months for his inquiries.
Thankfully, news reached him sooner than expected. Within weeks, reports arrived from his sons participating in the exchange program, indicating that Mortarion and Konrad had already encountered the Alcatraz Group—specifically through the expeditions—and were hopefully formulating a strategy to address these situations.
However, he also received a personal message from a Harlequin bearing reports signed by the Laughing God himself. Cegorach advised the Primarch to consult with Morningstar regarding the Alcatraz Group, suggesting that the god held insights that could "illuminate" Corvus on the group's nature.
Locating Morningstar proved to be more challenging than Corvus anticipated. The god appeared to move through the Tzarnia's palace with an elusive grace, evading notice from even the most vigilant Ascalin guards. Not that could or could stop him. The gods operated by their own inscrutable rules. Corvus hated it. The only thing that truly made sense to him was how closely they acted like mortals.
Through the subtle whispers of the warp and mundane deduction, Corvus finally traced Morningstar to a secluded garden where the god spoke with Lysanda. They were completely alone, which was both bad and good. They seemed to have been discussing something related to her brother, Elliot.
"Lysanda, Morningstar," Corvus greeted them, his tone curt yet respectful. "Forgive the interruption, but I seek a word with him." He gestured toward the god.
The Tzarnia looked momentarily flustered, her embarrassment evident. "Lord Corax," she began, "Did anyone ever inform you of the impropriety of sneaking up on someone within their home?"
Corvus offered a rueful nod. "More times than I care to admit," he confessed. "Unfortunately, it seems to be a habit of mine. But let us set that aside for now. I required his attention regarding an urgent matter."
Lysanda appeared hesitant, but Morningstar intervened, reassuringly touching her arm. "Fear not, your grace," he said soothingly. "Our conversation can wait for another time. The Primarch has sought me out, and I am eager to oblige."
Reluctantly, Lysanda acquiesced, though a trace of disappointment flickered across her features. Corvus couldn't help but wonder if she harbored any resentment at being so easily dismissed by an outsider. After all, despite her exalted status as the ruler of countless worlds and trillions of subjects, she seemed to hang upon Morningstar's every word, much like mortals and Astartes alike did with the Emperor.
Casting a knowing glance towards Morningstar, Lysanda mustered the audacity to issue a playful "command" for the god to seek her out as soon as their conversation concluded. With that, she gracefully departed, leaving Corvus and Morningstar amidst the tranquil embrace of the garden.
"Quite a remarkable individual, wouldn't you say?" Morningstar remarked with a hint of admiration. "She carries the weight of her responsibilities with a grace few can match. We were discussing her brother and how we might alleviate his suffering, particularly the discomfort caused by the machinery that sustains his life."
"And what did you propose?" Corvus inquired, intrigued by the notion of a god intervening in mortal affairs with such compassion.
He was disappointed, as Morningstar's expression grew somber as he shook his head. "Regrettably, my abilities have limitations in such matters. I am here primarily to offer solace to Her Grace during her trials."
Anticipating Corvus's skepticism, Morningstar raised a hand to forestall any objections. "I understand your reservations. Honesty has its place, but sometimes, a gentle falsehood can provide more comfort than the harsh truth. Civilization often relies on such delicate balances."
A wry smile tugged at Morningstar's lips as he regarded Corvus. "Although I suspect you hold a different perspective on such matters."
Corvus nodded in agreement, acknowledging the fundamental difference in their philosophies. "I am wary of promises made without the means to fulfill them."
"Rest assured, I do not make promises lightly, nor have I in this instance," Morningstar assured him, his tone earnest. "Any assurance I offer to Lysanda, whether truth or falsehood, is not contingent upon receiving anything in return. Unlike some of my divine counterparts, I do not seek adoration or worship as payment for my aid."
Corvus was warned about this mentality by Lockcraft, "Because you are a humanist at heart."
"I'm a fan of man. Guilty as charge!" Morningstar replied with a renewed vigor. "Humanity possesses a resilience and spirit unlike any other. I intend to safeguard that spirit, keep it unshackled and free from the constraints of evil masterminds and horrors beyond comprehension."
"Then, as fellow 'fan,' might I trouble you for some answers?" Corvus cut to the chase. "A situation has arisen unrelated to the current conflict but of significant importance to me. I was... encouraged by an intermediary of ours to seek your insights."
Morningstar chuckled knowingly. "Ah, the antics of the Laughing God, no doubt. The Aeldari are renowned for meddling in human affairs. Perfidious Eldar as usual." Corvus pondered the historical dynamics between human and alien deities, suspecting they were far from harmonious if they mirrored mortal interactions.
"Well then," Morningstar continued amicably, "What do you wish to inquire about? My recollections of the past are somewhat clouded, and my grasp on current events limited, but I am not one to withhold information."
"No hidden agendas or demands?" Corvus probed cautiously.
"None," Morningstar assured him, a hint of annoyance creeping into his tone. "As I mentioned before, I differ from my divine peers. I do not seek favors or offerings."
Corvus raised an eyebrow skeptically. "You expect me to believe that?"
"Fine. How about this: you promise me that whatever information I give you isn't used to kill people that don't otherwise deserve it."
"Did you honestly expect me to do so otherwise?" Corvus wasn't sure if he should have been offended or not by the insinuation.
"Given the precarious nature of your position," Morningstar responded frankly, "I've observed many leaders forsake their principles when faced with dire circumstances. I won't prevent you from doing so, but if you seek to attribute conditions to my assistance, I require this pledge from you."
"Very well," Corvus stated firmly, crossing his arms. "I, Corvus Corax, pledge not to employ the information provided to me by Morningstar for nefarious purposes against humanity."
Morningstar applauded once, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Agreed! I'll be holding you to that." Corvus couldn't shake the feeling that he had just made a pact with a trickster. "Now then, what questions do you have?"
Deciding to address his primary concern, Corvus began, "Are you familiar with an organization known as the Alcatraz Group?"
The question elicited a chuckle from the god, who then nodded knowingly. "Ah, the Alcatraz Group. Yes, I'm quite familiar with them." He regarded Corvus with an amused expression. "Let me guess, you've stumbled upon one of their facilities?"
"Some of my sons have discovered Penitentiary India-Delta-286. Does that name hold any significance for you?" Corvus inquired.
Morningstar shook his head. "Not particularly. Alcatraz operated countless facilities across the galaxy." He raised a hand to forestall any further questions. "But let's not get ahead of ourselves. I believe it's best to start from the beginning. Please, take a seat, Hierophant. This will require a thorough explanation."
Morningstar located a couple of wine bottles and crystal glasses and set them down as he and the Primarch settled in for the discussion. "The Alcatraz Group has a rich and complex history," he began, pouring wine for himself and Corvus, the liquid a striking shade of blue.
"It has many great achievements and disgraceful moments attached to its name." He continued, setting the stage for this story; taking a moment to enjoy the wine, Morningstar continued, "The true saga unfolded some ten thousand years ago. As humanity expanded across the stars, they encountered countless horrors and aberrations, most of which were of alien origin. These threats grew more severe the farther humanity ventured from its core worlds. Dealing with these entities that couldn't be simply eradicated became imperative. They had to be secured. Contained. Even protected."
"So, the Alcatraz Group emerged as a solution?" Corvus ventured, but Morningstar shook his head. "No?"
"No," he affirmed, "this was during the era preceding the Terran Federation. At that time, a patchwork of disparate organizations, including religious orders, private military companies, corporations, and various governmental bodies, took on the task of containing and managing these anomalies. Sometimes, they worked together; other times, against each other. When one entity fell, another three took its place. It became a venture. These anomalous aberrations became commodities. Greed became a driving factor among countless associations, and it became a problem."
Morningstar, sipping his wine thoughtfully, continued, "Not that anyone could do anything to stop this. Even Earth and its surrounding systems were no exception. However, visionary leaders sought to
finally consolidate these scattered efforts as the Terran Federation coalesced into power. Eventually, three major factions emerged as the primary custodians of 'anomalous items and persons of interest': the Foundation, PICUS, and the OSI. The Big Three, as they were called in many circles."
"And what became of them?" Corvus inquired, taking a sip of his wine.
"There ensued a clandestine struggle spanning a century," Morningstar revealed. "Ultimately, the central federal authority gained control over these factions via a new government agency. With some external influence, including that of deities such as ourselves, the Big Three were dismantled, and their resources pooled to establish the Institution for Human Defense and Understanding. This institution served as the true precursor to the Alcatraz Group, albeit without the authority or autonomy it would later possess."
Pausing momentarily, Morningstar reflected, "Then came the encounter with the Aeldari."
"Botched first contact?" Corvus questioned.
Morningstar shook his head, "No, quite the opposite. While the Aeldari weren't particularly impressed by humanity, they did allow our diplomats and envoys to witness some of their colonies and behold their power." He paused, melancholy in his voice, "You'll never truly grasp the extent of the Aeldari Dominion's might and how far they have fallen. Their basic colonies achieved feats that even beings like myself couldn't accomplish without considerable faith and energy. They weren't merely living in a post-scarcity society; they existed beyond the constraints of matter itself. Despite all its advancements and even with the support of its gods and legions, humanity would have stood little chance against the Aeldari had they chosen to oppose us."
Tapping his finger lightly on an empty wine glass, Morningstar continued, "This reality wasn't lost on anyone within the Federation's defense and intelligence circles. Your father advocated for action even before taking on the Emperor's mantle. Though, in truth, he merely nudged a few individuals. He also aimed to rouse us, the gods, to compel humanity."
"The Emperor was involved in affairs that far back?" Corvus mused, surprised by the revelation, although he refused to attach the label of father to him. "He always portrayed himself as more of a background figure during those times, or so he claimed."
"He was," Morningstar confirmed. "But I wasn't. Alongside figures like Odin, Sun Wukong, Anansi, and Susanoo, I played a more active role within the Federation government. We served as consultants, offering our wisdom and insights into matters of state and governance or more esoteric concerns. While humanity had outgrown our need for direct divine intervention, we still ensured that the right people were in positions of power."
Corvus shot a pointed glance at Morningstar accusingly. "So, that explains your affinity toward manipulation."
"We do have a knack for it, don't we?" Morningstar smirked. "You and your brothers, as well as your father. As they say, the apples certainly haven't fallen far from the tree."
The Primarch didn't delve further into the matter, simply stating, "So, the Aeldari instilled fear in humanity."
"And that fear leads us to the heart of our discussion," Morningstar affirmed, pouring another glass of wine. "By this time, the IHDU had become little more than a collection of soldiers and bureaucrats attempting to bring various colonial associations handling dangerous entities under its authority, with limited success. The existing system, the open-ended approach, had functioned adequately for two millennia. But the Federation government saw the need for change. They required new protocols and methodologies specifically tailored to containing anything associated with the Aeldari, including captives of the Dominion."
"They intended to capture Aeldari citizens? And their technology, too, I presume?" Corvus questioned, his brow furrowing.
"Correct again," Morningstar nodded a faint smile on his lips. "However, it wasn't solely for Aeldari prisoners and technology. That was the priority, but you don't build a ship to fight one sort of foe. No, they still had to think of the bigger picture. The committees recognized that humanity possessed some of the most hazardous entities in the galaxy as expansion continued, which presented an opportunity. There was a chance to study these entities, perhaps even replicate their capabilities, and develop countermeasures against potential adversaries. At the very least, they could deploy these horrors against their enemies. The prevailing sentiment was, 'We've captured them once; we can likely do it again.'"
"Gods," Corvus breathed, recoiling at the thought. "They sought more weapons?" The idea of employing cognitohazards or eldritch bio-weapons against another species was repugnant to him.
"More weapons, new technologies, deeper understanding, or purely defensive measures," Morningstar clarified, arching an eyebrow. "Sound familiar?"
"You're implying Ravenloft is pursuing such aims, which couldn't be further from the truth," Corvus asserted, feeling compelled to defend an organization he had worked diligently to shape. "Ravenloft seeks to comprehend the divine and its associated aspects. We have no interest in weaponization."
Morningstar emitted a derisive snort. "Everyone starts with noble intentions, but given enough time and inertia, perspectives shift. However, in the case of the IHDU, the Federation couldn't afford to wait. Change was imperative, and it was imperative now. Your father contacted me and the others, urging us to mobilize our followers for this cause. We acquiesced out of fear of the Aeldari, much like everyone else."
Taking another sip of wine, Morningstar pressed on, "Thus, the religions of Terra, the Federation government, and a plethora of amoral generals, scientists, and politicians pooled their expertise, wealth, and resources to transform the feeble and ineffectual IHDU into something formidable, dangerous, and enduring."
"The Alcatraz Group," Corvus interjected, anticipating the forthcoming explanation. "What exactly is Alcatraz?"
"Nothing particularly significant," Morningstar replied with a smirk. "If memory serves me right, it was a somewhat famous prison constructed on the western coast of what you now call Merica tens of thousands of years ago, situated on a desolate island near a city boasting a golden gateway for ships. A rather mundane name, but distinctly human. The gods found it a reasonable compromise, and the humans selected it through a random draw."
Corvus initially thought it was a jest until he realized Morningstar was serious. "They... chose the name randomly?"
"It was a toss-up between Purgatory, Sytiga, Tartarus, and... Azkaban?" Morningstar struggled to recall the last option. "It's inconsequential. I felt it was a fitting name, and it stuck."
"I'm not certain how I feel about policymaking being conducted through such an unsophisticated method," Corvus remarked, puzzled by the revelation. He had expected a more formal process, perhaps a vote.
"If it works on the battlefield, it can work in government," Morningstar remarked casually. "That's my take, at least. Don't knock it until you've tried it."
Rolling his eyes, Corvus motioned for the god to continue. "Right, so the Alcatraz Group came into being," Morningstar began. "With copious funding and resources poured into the group, the government had to employ AIs to conceal its activities effectively. We couldn't afford the citizens to catch wind of what was happening. Major religious orders used their influence to muddy the waters, while the government enacted new legislation to shield certain 'strategic' details from public scrutiny.
"Meanwhile, the gods worked on disseminating information to select individuals among our followers. We weren't permitted to communicate directly with mortals. Don't ask me why; I can't recall that far back. Nonetheless, we accomplished our objectives through various visions, miracles, and epiphanies."
"And where was the man who would become the Emperor during all of this?" Corvus inquired, intrigued by the Emperor's role in these events.
"Your father and his followers shifted their focus to 'backup' plans in case the Alcatraz Group faltered," Morningstar revealed. "I think he resented being sidelined by both the government and the gods from assuming direct leadership of the group."
Corvus chuckled at the notion. "So, you essentially told him to take a hike?"
Morningstar took a sip before responding. "It wasn't personal at the time. We simply believed there was a better-suited team to lead the group than him." He reached for the wine bottle, only to find it empty. "He fancied himself the smartest man in the room, but the inaugural administration of Alcatraz was... something else."
"Remarkable, I take it?" Corvus pressed, growing increasingly intrigued. "Did you or the gods have any hand in that?"
"No," Morningstar replied, the whispers confirming his honesty. "Humanity has a remarkable knack for producing the right individuals at the right time when necessary. I may not recall their names or faces anymore, but their accomplishments remain vivid in my memory."
Setting down his empty glass, Morningstar regarded Corvus with a hint of pride. "During the first millennium, the Alcatraz Group exceeded all expectations. Most of the free associations and entities that had previously operated off the grid fell under Alcatraz's influence or direct control. Those few who resisted were either eliminated or forced into hiding. When they encountered new anomalous entities, they took care of them quietly but often at great sacrifice to their people and would often find new technologies or ideas in the process. It's safe to say that Alcatraz's management played a pivotal role in the growth and prosperity of the Terran Federation during its first and second eras."
"And this continued for thousands of years?" Corvus sought to piece together the timeline. "This group's sheer scope and scale must have been extraordinary."
"It was indeed a hefty investment, but the returns from Alcatraz were undeniably impressive. However, as time elapsed and Alcatraz shifted its focus towards containing these myriad horrors, humanity had developed sufficient means and countermeasures to manage most threats without the government's call. Alcatraz transitioned from capturing items of interest to assuming the role of wardens over their penitentiaries since there were countless entities to oversee now," Morningstar elaborated.
"Thousands of installations," Corvus recalled the initial reports regarding Penitentiary India-Delta-286. "And yet, no one discovered them?"
"Many facilities were built before the arrival of colonists or on dead or hostile worlds. No one wants to risk life and limb to confirm a supposed conspiracy. Besides, it was next to impossible to find them. They evolved from a clandestine government project into a covert paramilitary research society. By the time the second administration took the reins, they had vanished from the Federation's radar and were embroiled in conflicts with rivals like the Order of Chains and Raven Corps. They were so committed to their mission that they disregarded directives from Earth once politicians began to grasp the exorbitant sums allocated to the Group, funds that could have been allocated elsewhere—like bolstering research into autonomous war machines," Morningstar explained.
"So, it boiled down to politics," Corvus surmised, recognizing the all-too-common issue. "But they were effective in fulfilling their duties?"
"If you could witness some of the discoveries and horrors they contained at their peak, you'd believe they were safeguarding all of humanity," Morningstar affirmed, meeting Corvus's gaze squarely. "Certain entities they contained would have required the intervention of the Aeldari had they breached containment. And now that the Aeldari Dominion has fallen, who else is left to thwart such terrors?"
"We are," Corvus responded, devoid of arrogance or boastfulness but with the unwavering conviction of a leader who knew that failure was not an option. "Alcatraz has come this far. The Imperium, or at least the Raven Guard and Ravenloft, will ensure their legacy endures, not in defeat, but triumph."
Morningstar smirked. "Well, at least you've got guts," he commented, reaching for the still-full bottle of wine, but Corvus promptly stopped him.
"Finish your story," Corvus half-ordered.
Rolling his eyes, Morningstar resumed. "Right. So, the Alcatraz Group has been diligently performing its duties for thousands of years. They've concealed facilities, armories, fleets, armies, research labs, hidden colonies—you name it. They even employ aliens. Virtually nothing was off-limits, except for anything that could jeopardize the integrity of their operations."
"So why is the Imperium only now discovering evidence of their existence?" Corvus inquired, more curious than anything else. "I suspect the Emperor is involved?"
"Probably. It could also be Mars or Saturn. Perhaps even some of the inner colonies in what you call Segmentum Solar," Morningstar replied vaguely. "It's challenging to discern the where, when, and why of these discoveries appearing now."
"Which makes this situation concerning. Hence, I need to locate these facilities," Corvus stated decisively. "I need to bring Alcatraz under my control."
"My, what brought this about? Ambition, perhaps?" Morningstar's tone held a hint of amusement. "Or is it merely greed I'm detecting?"
"You know that someone must step forward to safeguard whatever is housed within these facilities," Corvus countered.
"Of course," Morningstar responded sardonically. "And naturally, the spoils go to the new caretaker."
"You object to this? You trusted the founders of the Alcatraz Group. Ravenloft might not have the same expertise and resources they did, but it boasts individuals who are seasoned in dealing with new threats and enjoy the support of influential figures, including the Aeldari. This means a smoother transition to reassume containment of whatever horrors lie within rather than simply pursuing material gains."
Morningstar remained unconvinced. "Why should I trust you?"
Corvus blinked at the question, "Excuse you?"
"Your intentions may be noble, Hierophant, but you have yet to prove yourself to me or any other deity. While you may have the favor of Venus and Cegorach, neither has bestowed upon you the role of steward of the divine or their followers because they don't trust you as of yet. Why? Your concerns still reside primarily within the material realm."
"Is it wrong for me to prioritize aiding my brothers and humanity in the present moment?" Corvus's voice betrayed a hint of frustration. "I cannot forsake them to pursue deities and ensure they are not manipulating or subjugating vulnerable populations for their own ends."
"And therein lies the problem," Morningstar remarked. "The lack of trust between us. Between the gods themselves. You distrust me, and I, in turn, harbor doubts about you. I'm sure the others would remark, feeling the same way. This leaves you in a precarious position, doesn't it?"
"Do you think I'm blind to your machinations?" Corvus retorted. "Your presence exerts an influence that draws humans to you, rendering them susceptible to your will. Am I supposed to believe you have no ulterior motives?"
"I do indeed have motives," Morningstar conceded. "Just as you do, just as your brother, Cegorach, Eldrad, Venus, and everyone else does. Each of us extends a level of trust to others based on past interactions and experiences. That, Hierophant, is precisely the issue between us."
After reflection, the God of Dawn continued, "Listen, if you want my assistance without feeling as though it's part of some grand scheme, then you need to meet me halfway. While I have been accommodating and amicable toward you, Hierophant, there are limits to my patience."
Corvus took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding. Morningstar's argument had merit, even if it didn't fully sway him. He couldn't deny the truth in the statement about everyone having their own agenda, himself included. This realization only served to highlight the precarious state of the Imperium.
"Then enlighten me," Corvus replied, his tone measured. "What exactly does your plan entail?"
Morningstar's smirk widened as he glanced at the wine bottle Corvus had momentarily guarded. With a resigned sigh, the Primarch withdrew his hand, allowing the god to claim the bottle for himself.
"Do you understand how a deity integrates into a foreign culture?" Morningstar began, pouring himself another glass of wine. "It's often through the slow process of missionaries, evangelizing, and generational efforts. I take a different approach. I work alongside the people, side by side. I elevate individuals to leadership positions, instilling in them a belief in their own divinity."
"Cut to the chase," Corvus interjected.
Taking a sip of his wine, Morningstar continued, "The Free World Coalition and the Stellar Empire of Ascalin will inevitably fall under the influence of the Realm of Ultramar. Your brother, the astute ruler he is, won't impede the rise of new faiths. Naturally, I intend to be at the forefront of this shift."
"Fine. It's not like I can or would prevent the establishment of a Church of the Dawn Star, if that's what you're asking," Corvus stated firmly. "However, I must ensure that any other faiths that emerge that are not harmful won't be persecuted."
"Give me some credit," Morningstar responded with a flourish. "I'm indifferent to which gods people choose to worship. I simply aim to cultivate a new following for myself."
This whole thing was getting on the Primarch's nerves, "So is this it? You don't want us stopping Lysanda from declaring her empire the new capital of the God of Dawn?"
"Hardly." Morningstar didn't appreciate that comment, "That will come about naturally. I want you not to stop me if I take some followers. That includes Auroras and Liberators if, and I mean that if, they decide to see the light."
Diving deeper into the proposition, Corvus pressed, "You're suggesting you can recruit AIs and whatever the Liberators are? How exactly would that be feasible?"
Morningstar's response was a touch of mystery: "That's a secret for now, my friend, but rest assured, I have my ways. And should the need arise for assistance from your Skeleton Key, I trust you'll consider extending its aid if I request it."
Feeling a growing unease about the arrangement, Corvus voiced his concerns, "There are a lot of uncertainties in this arrangement."
"Exactly. I'm asking for your trust," Morningstar reiterated, "But consider this—it's also in your best interest. I may not succeed in recruiting any Liberators or Auroras. They could easily meet their demise or fall into your hands. In that case, I only ask that my followers can thrive."
As Corvus pondered the situation further, he realized that he and Roboute would have ample opportunities to neutralize an Aurora or Liberator before Morningstar. So, what was the god's angle here? The whispers offered no clarity, only cryptic hints about overcoming darkness with sunlight.
"And what do I gain from placing my trust in you?" Corvus pressed, wary of the imbalance in the arrangement.
Morningstar's smile remained as charming as ever as he laid out his offer, "I'll provide you with everything I recall about the Alcatraz Group—details of their bases, facilities, fleet movements, personnel, a comprehensive history, and more importantly, what was contained in many of these facilities. From its inception to its demise, I was there every step of the way. You won't find this wealth of information anywhere else."
Corvus found the offer enticing, albeit reluctantly so. "It seems the scales are tipped in my favor."
"Mhmm," Morningstar acknowledged with a nod, "I'd like to make this alliance of ours work. I don't have many friends, and you are a good lad. And that's not me being snide or cute. You have a good soul, Heirphoant. Maybe not as brilliant a mind as your father, but you have something better for what you aim to do and become."
With a gesture of agreement, Morningstar extended his right hand for a handshake to solidify the deal. "I'd give you time to consider but know that compiling this information will take me a day and night, and my departure for the Coalition is imminent—just 48 hours away, as we all agreed upon."
As Corvus gazed at the outstretched hand before him, an unfamiliar sense of hesitation crept into his usually steadfast demeanor. He had always prided himself on his unwavering resolve, even in the face of danger during the Coup on Terra. But this decision felt different, weighted with uncertainty that he rarely encountered.
Despite the reservations gnawing at him, Corvus couldn't ignore the allure of Morningstar's offer—a wealth of invaluable information that could potentially turn the tide in Ravenloft's favor. Yet, it came at the cost of agreeing to terms that might never come to pass. The scales were tipped heavily in his favor, but the consequences of this alliance remained shrouded in ambiguity.
As Morningstar awaited his response, Corvus grappled with the decision before him. He could refuse and seek out alternative means of acquiring the information, but the opportunity presented by the god's offer was too tempting to dismiss lightly. The prospect of gaining insight into hidden threats and saving countless lives outweighed the uncertainty that lingered in his mind.
With a decisive nod, Corvus made his choice. "Yes, we have a deal," he declared, extending his hand to meet Morningstar's in a firm handshake. There was no victorious grin on the god's face, only a sense of quiet satisfaction that spoke volumes.
"Remember," Morningstar's words carried an air of ancient power, "I expect you to honor your end of the bargain. I do not make promises lightly."
"Nor do I," Corvus replied, his voice unwavering. It was a deal with the devil. Sadly, he should have realized it wouldn't be the last.
---
@Daemon Hunter Okay, got some backstory for the Alcatraz Group.
