The planet Bastion must decide whether to remain loyal to the Emperor, or side with the rebel Horus. The Warmaster’s case is presented by an iterator, a master of persuasion. The Imperium has sent the Space Marines. Heka’tan and Arcadese must set aside their warlike natures and learn to be diplomats, or risk losing the world. But Horus wants the world, and a plan is in motion to ensure that the Space Marines fail in their task... A short story from the Age of Darkness anthology.