The Emperor’s Angel of Death

Compared to the many wondrous creations and satellites of Jupiter, the Saros Station, where the Star Phantoms fleet was headed, was also a marvel. This station, shaped like a spindle, resembled a magnificent crystal chandelier as it bathed in the deep red light of the planet.

Unlike most industrial districts and colonies on this gas giant, this station was not intended for any industry or production. It was purely a service facility, where Jupiter's elite could find respite and relaxation from the shipyards and forges. It was said that only the Venus orbital station could surpass Saros Station in luxury, boasting, among other things, the best opera house outside of the Imperial Palace.

As the fleet docked at the berth, all the dignitaries of this world had been waiting for a long time. Even though they were all esteemed Solar System nobles, they had to show respect to an Astartes Chapter Master, let alone a hero who had just led a great crusade. Many wanted to catch a glimpse. Hive nobles, factory owners, mining associations, high-ranking officers, naval admirals, Rogue Traders, members of the Adeptus Mechanicus, and other powerful figures each occupied their own areas in the vast and opulent VIP reception area of the spaceport, bowing as Sotha Nul, guarded by a cohort of Terminators, came into view.

Sotha Nul himself was quite amiable. Subsequently, Jupiter's Governor, Felix Schwarzenberg, or rather Felix XXIII, expressed his fervent praise and blessings to Sotha Nul.

Although all planetary or planetoid governors of the Solar System held lifetime appointments, they were not hereditary. Each new governor had to be appointed by the High Lords of Terra from among officials or nobles. Even so, reaching such a prominent position as Governor of Jupiter was enough to prove Felix XXIII's extraordinary lineage.

According to Faisal, the Schwarzenbergs were an ancient Terra noble family no less prestigious than their own. The family had been loyal to the Emperor since the conquest of Europa, and its members were spread throughout various institutions and departments, as well as military forces, during the Great Crusade. Although some family members had entered 'tainted' organizations like the Third Legion, it did not affect the family's status as one of Terra's most prominent noble houses. It was said that twelve of its members were recorded as having become members of the Adeptus Custodes.

They were truly one of the Empire's top aristocratic families.

Therefore, while Felix Schwarzenberg was very enthusiastic when facing Sotha Nul, he was not at all humble.

"Chapter Master Aleksey, your arrival here not only inspires the people of Jupiter but also brings great honor to this place. The preparations were made in haste, so the arrangements are simple. I hope you don't find it too shabby."

Felix XXIII had a bear-like build, unnaturally bright golden hair, and distinctly sky-blue eyes. Sotha Nul could tell at a glance that his physique, hair, and eyes showed obvious signs of genetic modification. Many nobles would constantly modify and adjust their genes to highlight the nobility of their family's bloodline, but this did not affect the aura of this great noble. He carried a clear and strong patriarchal dignity, and the wings of his hooked nose would flare excitedly when he spoke eloquently.

His attire reflected excellent taste and refinement, unlike nouveau riche nobles who were covered in various trinkets. He did not need such things to prove his strength and power.

On the contrary, his attire was somewhat unique. The metal brocade on his robe was composed of neatly arranged silver skulls, and golden chains hung from his belt, with ivory-carved bone fragments suspended at the ends like trophies. It was said that the governor never issued orders directly with his voice. Instead, he would write what he needed to be done on those jade-like precious bone fragments made from extinct giant animals of Terra and hand them to his attendants and subordinates.

As for what he called 'shabby,' Sotha Nul believed that no sane person would use that word to describe this magnificent palace. The hall, large enough to accommodate tens of thousands of people, was covered with thick carpets that even Space Marines could not make a sound on.

The walls and structure of the hall were all gold, with exquisite statues everywhere, and even carefully tended giant trees and flowerbeds, all surrounding a fountain that constantly spouted trickling streams. The dome was carved from an enormous piece of crystal, resembling a blooming flower.

"It is a great honor to accept your invitation. Jupiter is a jewel in the crown of the Imperium. I am very fortunate to be able to come here."

After a round of greetings, Felix XXIII introduced his wife to Sotha Nul.

If one only looked at her face, she was a very beautiful and noble lady, appearing to be around thirty years old. Her skin was as pale as snow, almost allowing one to see the capillaries underneath. Her eyes were as clear as black diamonds, and her delicate, high nose bridge and crimson small mouth made her seem like a person from a painting—

But from her neck down, she was wrapped in thick gowns and countless jewels and decorations, and her hair was coiled into a huge beehive surrounded by countless gemstone and diamond 'bees.' Her pearl-colored crinoline was very, very large, so large that it might not be a problem to stuff a Space Marine inside. Combined with the dazzling jewelry, the whole person was like a huge parade float. Sotha Nul mused that this outfit and adornment might be heavier than the lady herself.

Therefore, the slender lady could not move on her own and needed the assistance of machines and maids—six young maids surrounded her, either holding her skirt or supporting her arms.

Even so, when she bowed to Sotha Nul, she was as precise as a machine.

However, while meeting important figures, Sotha Nul saw someone who surprised him immensely—Sylrael Claremont!

She was still wearing her signature blue dress, but she did not explain anything to Sotha Nul, only smiling and lifting her skirt in a curtsy.

Afterward, Sotha Nul accepted Felix XXIII's invitation to the banquet. He had turned down banquet invitations from those worlds before, but considering this man's influence, and Sotha Nul's own purpose, this banquet was difficult to refuse.

Although in the heart of the Imperium, the arrival of Space Marines in Jupiter was still an extremely rare event, let alone a Chapter Master. Therefore, at the banquet, Sotha Nul was asked many questions about war, about victory, and about heretics. Some people also indirectly asked if Huron had escaped. Sotha Nul did not answer directly, after all, this was the 'core secret' of the crusade.

In addition, it must be said that, as expected of the nobles of the Solar System, the noble girls in low-cut evening dresses were not afraid of Sotha Nul. While covering their faces with fans, they asked Sotha Nul somewhat awkward questions, such as why he looked much bigger than other Space Marines.

Fortunately, they would soon be dispersed by their fathers.