The Primarch of Liberty

Chapter 34: Progress



Franklin Valorian stood atop a scaffolding, his imposing figure silhouetted against the backdrop of New Washington's skyline. Below him, a hive of activity buzzed as construction crews, automatons, and floating drones worked tirelessly to transform the old city library into the fortress that would become the Library of Congress.

"How fitting," Franklin mused, a wry smile playing on his lips. "From a humble repository of knowledge to the beating heart of our Legion's psychic might."

He descended the scaffolding with practiced ease, his feet touching the ground just as a group of his gene-sons approached.

"My sons," Franklin greeted them, his voice carrying a mixture of pride and amusement. "I see you've finally decided to come out of the psychic closet."

The Astartes shifted uncomfortably, their superhuman faces showing hints of embarrassment. Franklin stood in front of his sons, his voice steady despite his nervousness.

"I know the Cluster isn't too keen on psykers, but times are changing. We're part of something bigger now, and we need every advantage we can get. So, who among you can do a little... space magic?"

There was a moment of silence before a few hands tentatively raised. Franklin's grin widened. "There we go! Come on up here, you closet Space Wizards!"

As the psyker Marines made their way forward, Franklin felt a familiar presence in his mind.

"Weak," Khaine's voice echoed. "Your gene-sons lack potency in the warp. If not for my intervention, you'd be just as inept."

Franklin chuckled internally. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, old friend. We'll just have to work with what we've got."

One by one, Franklin tested the psychic potential of his sons. He was pleased to see that while their abilities weren't overwhelming, there was definite promise. One Marine in particular caught his eye.

"You there," Franklin pointed. "What's your name, son?"

The Marine snapped to attention. "Vladimir Mendelev, my lord."

Franklin nodded, sensing the spark of potential in Vladimir. "Well, Vladimir, how would you like to be the first recruit for our new Librarius?"

Vladimir's eyes widened. "It would be an honor, Lord Valorian...Father"

Franklin clapped his hands together. "Well, my boys, it's time for Psyker 101. Let's start with the basics, shall we?"

Over the next few hours, Franklin guided his sons through rudimentary psychic exercises. He demonstrated techniques for focusing their minds, channeling warp energies, and manifesting simple psychic phenomena. As he did so, he shared watered-down versions of the incantations Khaine had taught him.

"Remember," Franklin instructed, "it's all about intent and focus. The words are just a tool to help you channel your will."

Vladimir, showing a particular aptitude, managed to levitate a small rock. Excited by his success, he shouted, "I cast Levitate!"

Franklin couldn't help but laugh. "Well done, Vladimir! Though perhaps we should work on subtlety next."

As the training session wound down, Franklin noticed three figures approaching. He recognized them immediately: Dr. Hiromi Suzuki, Chief Engineer Amelia Cortez, and Dr. Elena Vasquez - his top "eggheads" as he affectionately called them.

"Ladies and Gentleman," Franklin greeted them warmly. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Dr. Suzuki, his cybernetic eye whirring as it focused, spoke first. "Lord Valorian, we've been observing your training session. We believe we may have a solution to... enhance the psychic potential of your sons."

Franklin raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "I'm listening."

Chief Engineer Cortez stepped forward, her hands moving animatedly as she spoke. "We've been working on integrating some of our most advanced technology with psychic amplification techniques. Theoretically, we could create a symbiosis between machine and mind, boosting the rather... modest psychic abilities of your gene-sons."

"Modest?" Franklin feigned offense. "I'll have you know that young Vladimir here can levitate rocks with the best of them."

Dr. Vasquez, ever the serious one, cut in. "My lord, with all due respect, what Chief Cortez is proposing could turn that rock-levitating ability into mountain-moving power."

"Hmm," Franklin mused. "Sounds like we're creating some sort of... Techno-psychic super soldiers."

"Precisely," Dr. Cortez confirmed. "And with the resources of the Independence Cluster at our disposal, we could produce equipment far beyond anything the Adeptus Mechanicus could dream of."

Franklin paced for a moment, considering the implications. Then, a wide grin spread across his face. "Ladies and gentlemen," he announced, "I believe we've just given birth to a new breed of Librarius. Or should I say..." He paused for dramatic effect, "The Federal Bureau of Incantations!"

There was a moment of silence before Vladimir burst out laughing. "The FBI, sir? Really?" Franklin shrugged, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Why not? It's catchy, it's got history, and it'll confuse the hell out of everyone else in the Imperium."

As the laughter died down, Franklin's expression grew more serious. "Dr. Suzuki, I want you to begin developing the neural implants immediately. Chief Cortez, start designing the external psi-amplifiers. Dr. Vasquez, I need you to delve into our archives - find every scrap of information we have on psychic phenomena and how it interacts with technology."

The scientists nodded, their eyes alight with the prospect of the challenge ahead. "Vladimir," Franklin turned to the young Astartes, "congratulations. You're about to become our first FBI Special Agent. I hope you're ready for some serious upgrades." Vladimir straightened, a mix of excitement and apprehension on his face. "I am honored, father. I won't let you down."

As the group dispersed to begin their respective tasks, Franklin felt Khaine's presence in his mind once more.

This is an interesting path you're taking, Franklin, the god-shard commented. Merging technology and psychic power... it's not unlike what my people once did.

Oh? Franklin thought back. And how did that work out for them?

There was a moment of silence before Khaine responded, his mental voice tinged with both warning and amusement. Let's just say it'll be interesting to see if you humans can do better. Franklin chuckled to himself as he watched his sons and scientists scurry about, already hard at work on this new endeavor. "Well, Khaine," he murmured under his breath, "if there's one thing humans are good at, it's learning from others' mistakes... and then making spectacular new ones of our own."

With that, he turned and strode towards the rising structure of the Library of Congress.

Franklin stood in the sterile environment of Lab 17 within Area 51, his towering form dwarfing the various equipment and researchers scurrying about. Dr. Elara Chen, head of bio- engineering, approached him with a tablet in hand, her eyes alight with excitement and a hint

of nervousness.

"Lord Valorian," she began, her voice steady despite her obvious enthusiasm, "I've made a discovery that I believe you'll find... intriguing."

Franklin raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "Go on, Dr. Chen. You've got my attention." Dr. Chen tapped her tablet, bringing up a holographic display of what appeared to be a complex organ. "My lord, I believe I've identified the source of your... uniqueness. We're calling it the Immortis Gland, though some of the team have taken to calling it the 'God-

Maker'."

Franklin leaned in, examining the hologram with keen interest. "Interesting name. What exactly does this 'God-Maker' do?"

Dr. Chen's excitement bubbled over as she began to explain. "It's a genetically-engineered organ, about twice the size of a thumbnail, located within your cerebral cortex. Our analysis suggests that this organ is responsible for your immense size, superhuman strength, and accelerated growth to maturity."

Franklin nodded slowly, processing the information. "And you believe this was created by the

Emperor?"

"Without a doubt," Dr. Chen affirmed. "The level of genetic engineering involved... it's beyond anything we've ever seen. It's nothing short of miraculous. This organ not only regulates your growth and strength but also your overall metabolism. We believe it grants you a lifespan measured in centuries, if not functional immortality." Franklin let out a low whistle. "Well, that explains a few things. But tell me, Dr. Chen, you already informed me of this a few years ago I assume there are extensive research?"

Dr. Chen took a deep breath before continuing. "My lord, we believe this organ exists not just in you, but in all the Primarchs. We've only confirmed its existence in three so far, including yourself, but the implications are... significant."

Franklin's eyes narrowed slightly. "Significant how?"

"If we can understand how the Immortis Gland works," Dr. Chen explained, her voice

lowering slightly, "we might be able to improve upon the Astartes themselves. Enhance their

abilities, perhaps even extend their lifespans further."

There was a moment of tense silence as Franklin considered the implications. Finally, he

spoke, his voice measured. "You realize, Dr. Chen, that what you're proposing could be considered the highest form of tech-heresy by the Mechanicus?"

Dr. Chen nodded solemnly. "I do, my lord. That's why I'm bringing this directly to you. We

need your approval"

Franklin paced for a moment, his mind racing with the possibilities and potential consequences. Finally, he turned back to Dr. Chen. "Alright, you have my support to continue your research, but with conditions. This stays in Area 51, under the highest security protocols. Only you and I will know the full extent of what's being done here. Understood?"

Dr. Chen nodded eagerly. "Of course, Lord Valorian. Thank you for your trust in this matter."

Franklin held up a hand. "Don't thank me yet, Doctor. We're treading on dangerous ground here. I'll need to approach the Emperor about this... carefully. In the meantime, I want regular

updates on your progress."

"Absolutely, my lord," Dr. Chen replied. "We'll begin immediately. May I ask... would you be willing to undergo some additional tests? It could greatly accelerate our research." Franklin grinned. "Why not? It's not every day you get to be a test subject for your own superhuman abilities. Set it up, Doctor. Let's see what this 'God-Maker' can really do." Over the next few weeks, Franklin split his time between overseeing the construction of the FBI headquarters and participating in Dr. Chen's research. The tests were rigorous, pushing even his superhuman physiology to its limits.

Franklin couldn't help but marvel at the ingenuity of the Emperor, creating something as complex and powerful as the Immortis Gland.

"Father," he mused aloud, "I hope you'll understand why we're doing this. The galaxy is a dangerous place, and we need every advantage we can get."

A Dozen Solar months later...

Franklin Valorian stood at the head of the grand hall within the newly constructed Library of

Congress. The vast chamber, with its towering bookshelves and gleaming technological interfaces, served as a testament to the unique blend of knowledge and power that defined the Liberty Eagles. Before him stood the first graduating class of the Federal Bureau of Incantations, his Legion's answer to the traditional Librarius

At the forefront of the group, standing tall and proud, was Vladimir Mendelev. The Space Marine's eyes gleamed with a mixture of determination and barely contained psychic energy. Franklin couldn't help but feel a surge of pride; Vladimir had come a long way under his tutelage, proving to be an exception to the generally weak psychic potential of the Liberty Eagles.

"My sons," Franklin began, his voice carrying effortlessly through the hall, "today marks a new chapter in the history of our Legion. You stand before me not just as Space Marines, but

as the guardians of knowledge, the wielders of technology, and the shields against the warp's

corruption." He gestured to the Augur Staffs held by each of the assembled Techno-Seers. The staffs hummed with barely contained energy, their embedded AIs silently processing vast amounts

of data.

"These staffs are more than mere weapons or tools. They are the bridge between your innate abilities and the technological marvels we have inherited from humanity's golden age. Learn to use them well, for they will be your greatest allies in the battles to come." Franklin paced before the assembled Techno-Seers, his gaze meeting each of theirs in turn. "You may not possess the raw psychic might of other Legions' Librarians, but make no mistake your strength lies in your adaptability, your understanding of technology, and your ability to work as one cohesive unit."

He stopped before Vladimir, placing a hand on the Marine's shoulder. "Vladimir Mendelev,

step forward."

As Vladimir moved to stand beside his Primarch, Franklin addressed the group once more. "Vladimir has shown exceptional psychic potential, a rarity among our ranks. He will serve as your Chief Librarian, your Director. Learn from him, support him, and together, you will be the backbone of our Legion's defense against the horrors of the warp." Vladimir stood tall, his face a mask of determination. "I am honored, my lord. I swear to lead

our brothers with wisdom and strength."

Franklin nodded approvingly before turning back to the assembled Techno-Seers. "Now,

demonstrate what you have learned. Show me the living lightning, the mastery over

machinery that sets you apart."

As one, the Techno-Seers raised their Augur Staffs. The air crackled with energy as arcs of blue-white lightning danced between the staffs, forming intricate patterns in the air. Simultaneously, the various technological devices in the room sprang to life, responding to the electromagnetic manipulation of the Techno-Seers.

Franklin watched with satisfaction as holographic displays flickered into existence, showing tactical data and real-time analysis of the psychic energies at play. The drone swarms assigned to each Techno-Seer buzzed to life, forming protective formations around their

masters.

"Excellent," Franklin said, his voice filled with pride. "Now, Vladimir, show them the true potential of our arts."

Vladimir stepped forward, his Augur Staff pulsing with barely contained power. With a

gesture, he called forth a storm of psychic energy that dwarfed the combined efforts of his

brothers. The lightning under his control took on a life of its own, forming shapes and patterns of incredible complexity.

The other Techno-Seers watched in awe as Vladimir demonstrated his ability to interface

with multiple systems simultaneously, his mind and the AI in his staff working in perfect harmony. Holograms danced around him, showing everything from detailed schematics of Legion warships to real-time data on warp fluctuations in nearby space.

"This," Franklin said, gesturing to Vladimir, "is what you must aspire to. Not all of you will

reach this level of mastery, but together, you will be a force that can turn the tide of battle." He turned to address the group once more. "Remember, your strength lies not in individual

power, but in your ability to work as one. You are the shield that protects our brothers from the horrors of the warp. You are the bridge between man and machine. You are the Federal Bureau of Incantations, and you will be the unseen heroes of our Legion."

The Techno-Seers stood at attention, their faces set with determination. Franklin could feel their resolve, their dedication to their unique path.

Franklin Valorian stood on the observation deck of the newly refitted Sweet Liberty, his eyes

scanning the vast expanse of space before him. The void was filled with the glittering hulls of his fleet, each ship a testament to the technological prowess of the Independence Cluster. As he admired the view, he heard the familiar footsteps of Dr. Marcus Hawthorne approaching.

"Lord Valorian," Dr. Hawthorne called out, his voice filled with barely contained excitement. "I have the final report on the upgrades to Sweet Liberty and the rest of the fleet." Franklin turned, a smile playing on his lips. "Dr. Hawthorne, I trust you bring good news?" The head of Voidship Engineering nodded enthusiastically, his dataslate clutched tightly in

his hands. "Indeed, my lord. We've made significant improvements across the board. But first, I must inform you of a change in classification."

Franklin raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Go on."

"We can no longer classify Sweet Liberty as a Gloriana Class vessel," Dr. Hawthorne explained. "The extensive modifications and upgrades have pushed it beyond that category. We're proposing a new classification: the Archangel Class." "Archangel Class," Franklin repeated, testing the words. "It has a nice ring to it. And I assume Sweet Liberty isn't the only ship in this new class?"

Dr. Hawthorne nodded. "Correct, my lord. We've taken the Liberty and included the Emperor's Bucephalus in this classification as well, given its noted size advantage over Sweet Liberty. It's the only other vessel we know of that matches or exceeds our capabilities." Franklin's eyes gleamed with pride. "Excellent. I'm sure my father will be pleased to hear his ship has such distinguished company. Now, tell me about these upgrades you've made." Dr. Hawthorne's face lit up as he began to detail the improvements. "We've significantly expanded Sweet Liberty's arsenal, my lord. In addition to her existing armaments, we've added Disintegration Cannons and Grav Cannons to her broadside batteries." "Disintegration Cannons?" Franklin asked, his interest piqued. "You made bigger ones derived from the STC?"

"Yes, my lord," Dr. Hawthorne agreed.

"Impressive," Franklin mused. "And how do these new weapons integrate with our existing systems?"

to

Dr. Hawthorne pulled up a holographic display from his dataslate, showing a detailed schematic of Sweet Liberty. "We've redesigned the power distribution network accommodate the increased energy requirements. The ship's AI, Sovereign, has been updated

to manage the new weapons systems efficiently."

As the hologram rotated, showing various angles of the massive ship, Franklin could see the

new weapon emplacements seamlessly integrated into Sweet Liberty's sleek design. "What about our defensive capabilities?" Franklin asked, always mindful of protecting his

crew and soldiers.

"We've made significant improvements there as well, my lord," Dr. Hawthorne replied. "We've upgraded the void shields with oscillating frequencies, making them more resistant to sustained fire. We've also installed a network of point-defense Gray Cannons to intercept incoming ordinance."

Franklin nodded approvingly. "Excellent work, Doctor. How does Sweet Liberty compare to other flagships now?"

Dr. Hawthorne's chest swelled with pride. "My lord, with these upgrades, Sweet Liberty is arguably the most formidable vessel in the Imperial fleet, second only to the Bucephalus itself. Our simulations show that she could easily hold her own against multiple enemy capital ships simultaneously including the Vengeful Spirit of the Luna Wolves and Hrafknel of the Space Wolves"

"And the rest of the fleet?" Franklin asked, his mind already considering the tactical advantages these upgrades would provide.

"We've applied similar upgrades across the board, scaled appropriately for each ship class,"

Dr. Hawthorne explained. "The entire Battlefleet Liberty has seen a significant increase in

both offensive and defensive capabilities."

Franklin turned back to the viewport, his eyes scanning the fleet with newfound appreciation.

"You've done exemplary work, Doctor. These upgrades will serve us well in the campaigns to -come."

Standing on the vast command bridge of the newly christened Archangel-class voidship, Sweet Liberty, Franklin Valorian gazed out at the infinite stretch of space. The ship hummed with a barely contained power, its systems all at the ready, bristling with weaponry that could level planets and technology that harkened back to the zenith of humanity's golden age. The

quiet before a storm lingered in the air, the crew's disciplined efficiency a mere backdrop to the weight of the galaxy outside.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Suddenly, a sharp ping echoed through the bridge, cutting through the hum of machinery. The ship's central AI, Sovereign, projected a flickering hologram before Franklin-an

encrypted transmission, bearing the unmistakable seal of the Emperor.

Franklin's eyes narrowed as the transmission opened. The Emperor's voice, deep and

resonant, filled the space around him.

"Franklin," the Emperor intoned, each word steeped in gravitas. "You are to make all haste to

the Helican Sector. There, we shall meet. Your presence is required."