I’m reminded of a definition of true horror I heard years ago. It’s a seeping feeling that crawls into your subconscious making you feel fear long term. I listened to this before work this morning and that’s exactly what happened. I spent the day on edge, this close to overwhelming sense of dread infecting every thought. The pacing and imagery you and the author provide brought this story to life in a way I’ve never experienced. Your both truly masters of your craft .
Imagine if Maximillion's parents conceived or adopted another child and kept Max around. "You see that servitor? That's your older brother. He didn't know how to keep his mouth shut around the Mechanicus. You don't want to end up like him, do you?"
Hate is what makes the Imperium, the Imperium. It is what powers the humans No matter how many slices of flesh they carve out and replace it with metal, hatred will always remain
@@JeanLucCaptain ..that's what happens when mechanicus sex has reached far above the levels of mechanical observences, that chaffing and friction sores alone cannot surpass...
I totally agree! I have witnessed many things in real life. I have read inumerable horror tales of both fiction and sci-fi. But.. This is uniquely horrific for some reason I can't put my augmetic finger on?
@@nomorework11 you can think in emotions. he'll be thinking in emotions that he can never understand or articulate. cursed to be confused and miserable until they let him die.
"The mechanicus are dangerous and they have their rules: respect the machine" *a few minutes later* "The heart of the machine is an abomination!" Who could have seen that coming? He may as well have told them that their favorite toaster was not efficient!
This had a real Willy Wonka and the Servator Factory vibe to it...A kid and his guardian are visiting the factory and the kid just sort of...falls into the machinery...and an Oompah-Loompah castrates him. Phenomenal work, here!
The seneschal/advisor pretty much did. He said they have rules, above all…respect the machine spirit. Then the guide says “behold…the heart forge of the machine!”, and…he calls it “an abomination.” But agree the adviser could have been more specific than “watch your tongue.”
Not only was the future high Lord of Terra an idiot who insulted one of their holys of holys it's likely the Mechanicus wanted to weed out someone who could become a threat in the future. I best plenty of young lords have "accidentally" got lost and turned into a servitor or fallen into machinery throughout the millennia lol
Not even a clone... It's like an accident happening on a school trip to a sausage factory and saying "Oops! Our bad! Here you go, have a pack of sausages containing bits of your child."
Love the utter dehumanization of the lead here. The mechanicus violated him on every level. The physical violation of chopping limbs and mounting plates on his torso, the sexual violation of needlessly neutering him like an animal for the sake of never reproducing again, and the spiritual violation of snipping his brain and never allowing him to function as a human beside maybe on a very, below animal standard way of feeling the basic emotions of acknowledging pain, sadness and knowing something is wrong but never being able to actually think deeper about it. Very dark stuff! I hate it and love it!
26:00 Ian Watson tribute. 31:00 it is worth noting that, canonically, the lobectomy (removal of the cerebrum) happens first in the servitorization process. An _interesting_ irregularity atop an 'accident', yes?
@@lordzon tech priest: 😏hey now accidents can happen. We have to process a lot of fleshlings so yeah its not a shock we have a few mistakes here and there. 🤷
@@ludovicusbathory1715 "Really, if you look at our percentages adjusted for input and output quotas, I think any reasonable member of the Adeptus Terra will see just how much value for mon-- resources we provide."
Cranky noble: That thing in that forge is an *abomination*! Tech Priest: AAAAAND we'll write that off as an accidental servitorization *whoops*. Y'know? Forgeworld stuff.
I love the foreshadowing that takes place in the Space Port as Maximillian watches all the Servitors skirt around, refueling shuttles, moving hoses and barrels from place to place, following Tech Adepts to the next menial task, on and on in perpetuity. Im sure that, somewhere in the back of his subconscious mind, Maximillian thought "seeing this gives a new appreciation to be a human; I am grateful this is not my fate" All the while not knowing that he was soon to be one of them
As someone who's building a mechanicus army I am more than happy to read the depths of their inhumanity. Thank you for making me fear my own favorite faction.
@@gaslighter9299 That's what you choose to believe, silly mortal. You are replaceable meat, extraneous and not required for function. Mars requires cogs to fulfill its purpose, the will of motion is already within the forge. Your opinion is an unneeded distraction to the proliferation of the Omnissiah throughout space. Go forth, age, become feeble, request bionics from the Mechanicus...and when you die, those same augments shall be harvested from you. After a certain point, your life is simply on loan from the Mechanicus - it will be taken back, in time.
It may have been the weak flesh of the Techpriest's emotions that demanded vengeance for the slight, but it was the cold calculation of the machine that approved it.
Utterly terrifying. I'm guessing he didn't need to be conscious for the operation but the Tech Priest made a special request that he was pumped full of stims so he understood what a collosal insult he had made.
@@bryanmcclure2220 He called the heart of the forge and giant infernal engine the burnt up people an "ABOMINATION". Again it's like a a very enthusiastic Christian shows someone the cross with a sculpture of Jesus nailed to it, and that person not understanding the imagery calls the object of worship a "sick, sadistic abomination."
@@bryanmcclure2220 He referred to the Heart of the Forge, probably the most sacred area of the Cult Mechanicus as "An Abomination" That likely doesnt ingratiate him with the techpriest, who then, as per the title, turns him into an Abomination.
Goosebumps...after 35yrs of doing Horror and mankinds worst stories, this one really got that ol' feel of first times watching movies and listening to Horrorstories back again. Thank you for this and have a creative year of the dragon...PLZ🙏
From the moment I understood the weakness of my flesh, it disgusted me. I craved the strength and certainty of steel. I aspired to the purity of the blessed machine. Your kind cling to your flesh as if it will not decay and fail you. One day, the crude biomass you call a temple will wither, and you will beg my kind to save you. But I am already saved. For the Machine is Immortal. Even in death, i serve the omnissiah
Without a doubt, this is the most impressive and evocative story and narration involving the Adeptus Mechanicus that I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying. This is one of the finest examples of dystopian sci-fi/horror. I am in awe. Thank you!!!
This was the most horrific story I have ever heard. And in this story we got a glimpse of the true horror of the 40k universe. I’m used to horror as I’m used to life, but this story took that to such a level that I am grateful for the life that I have.
This poor minor lord made the one mistake you don't ever do with the Mechanicus. Insult a tech priest. Been doing some lore diving with the Mechanicus for the past few weeks so this was a VERY fitting story to listen to Vox! The Imperium and the Mechanicus may be united...but it is far from a perfect union. Stories like this are a reminder of how alien the Mechanicus is from the Imperium...and truly there are worse things then death.
Tech Priest: "This unit does not care about your petty insults Lordling, insulting the perfection of the Forge Machine in this one's presence on the other hand..."
And hearing it again, makes me wonder if it was “just” the “abomination” comment that sealed his fate, or was he doomed from the start and the Mechanicus had already planed for him to be “a message” to his family or all Imperial nobility.
It is my great misfortune to have listened to this right before a dental appointment tomorrow. Oh well, at least Slaanesh shall be pleased with my terror.
I've listened to this twice now. Excellent storytelling and pacing and imagery, the ending is truly nightmarish. I especially like the detail of the Tech Priest's teeth rotting, as if she doesn't care and embraces the weakness and decay of her flesh, soon to be replaced by the machine. I can see how a lot of them would care little for their physical bodies beyond subsistence, grooming and basic hygiene are probably a secondary thought. Imagine being a normal human on an alien planet putting your trust in that? Also how Gregarious notes that Mechanicus perfectly understands Imperial social norms but they intentionally violate them.
As an AdMech player, I really love this more 'horrific' depiction of the Mechanicus. They are too often just seen as allies of the Imperium, if not its defacto subjects. Few people within the Imperium (or even in the 40k fandom) realize what they truly are.
Well if you think about it, the techpriest honoured the lordling by allowing him to see the heart of the forge... I imagine that in her mind, it was also a test to what he said earlier, if it was just empty words or he actually understood how important the machine cult is. And then he went on and called it an abomination. Poor child he was just too young to understand the gravity of the situation.
The boy was warned not to fall for their tricks. And he paid dearly. Listening to that transformation reminded me of the pain I went thru with 3rd degree burns and the skin grafts. Ugh I can only imagine. When you spoke of them pinching the nerve I physically shook my hands and my feet squirmed in my shoes. Bloody hell.
I'm truly sorry to hear about the loss of your [son/daughter - replace as appropriate] due to a therapeutic misadventure. It pains me to imagine the [enter probable feeling here] you must be experiencing. Losing a [loved one/relative] is an incredibly challenging and [REDACTED] experience, and I want you to know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. If there's anything I can do to provide support or lend a listening ear, please don't hesitate to let me know.
THIS is true Sci/fi horror. The added elements of the body horror all through 40k is one my favorite things about it. And the presentation was perfect! I got chills. Phenomenal work. I would LOVE to provide you with musical compositions for your narrations. I wouldn't even charge it would just be an honor.
The mechanicus may not be afraid of imperial royalty, but if there is one thing the Badab war tought us, it's that imperial royalty can leave you with an inquisitor and several chapters of astartes at your door. Wouldn't want to risk my forge world getting blown up because an angry parent told the right inquisitor my adepts were abducting people and sacrificing them.
You severly overestimate the worth a noble son. They're a dime a dozen. You know what's not a dime a dozen? The industrial output of a Forge World. Pretty easy equation to solve for who the imperium at large will care more about.
@@Awesomotron2k It's true but they might be able to get rid of that 1 Tech priest. Entire forge world would be too much. But killing A handful of lead Tech priest, Especially if they got someone high up in the mechanical to condemn them as Tech heretics, That should be doable.
He did this to himself by referring to the very heart of the forge and a religious icon in the eyes of the mechanicus as an "abomination" directly in front of the Techpriest. This is heresy in the eyes of the Mechanicus. There is a reason their religion is tolerated in the Imperium. But this is what sealed his fate in this story. The Imperium would not want to fight a war with the Machine Cults. They control a large portion of Imperial industry especially in weapons and equipment production. Also the gene seed for new chapters is modified and adapted on Mars by the Techpriests. They also are in command of the Titans of the Imperium.
Despite my attempts, i can not say i have my way with words. But to hear the true terror of such a simple thing in the 40k universe brings tears of joy in my eyes (I am aware this sounds weird.). The music in the background, your narration, the pace of the story, the voices in it. All of it is just monumental. But what i loved most of all, and the thing i thoroughly respect in horror stories is the sheer raw brutality of the situations. I can just imagine the gore in my mind. You are great at your craft, both you, Vox and the writer. You have just made me love my Adeptus Mechanicus even more. All hail the Omnissiah!
surely a noble family would have the ability to make a clone of their sons body, reconnect the prefrontal cortex and then just transplant the brain and he would basically be fine? like with the amount of insane things others have done in 40K that doesn't seem too hard by comparison.
@@Jplays23 On the one hand yes, on the other with how big Imperium is, they can just contact other Forgeworld and have it done. I don't think Mechanicus is a monolyte like that. Not with the size of Imperium.
On the one hand yes, on the other I can imagine that young lordling start screaming his ass off as soon as he is awoken after operation, and needing to be put down after what he went through.
I have a whole new view of the machanicus after listening to this, absolutely terrifying, body horror of this magnitude is something that I find scratches a certain part of my brain that just puts me on edge. The authors writing and your absolute chilling performance is among the best you've done to date ❤️
The deacriptions & voicing, the background effects & subtle music, I haven't FELT good horror like this in a LONG time. Suspence, existential dread, primal fear, & gore all in one package. Bravo!
This was my first ever WH40K audio story and it blew my mind. It had no idea it was this dark! The ending made me gasp and go " Holy Sh*t" a few times. True horror! I loved it! I'm listening to all your stories before bed now. I'm hooked! Thanks for this amazing content!
Absolutely terrifying. I'm not sure if horror was what you were going for, but it was achieved masterfully nonetheless. Had chills running up and down my spine and goosebumps at the end. Had to take a step back and remind myself it wasn't real I was so drawn in. Fantastic work.
@@AVoxintheVoid This story is absolutely amazing, the slow build up of walking through the forge with the constant heat, then the reveal of the heart of the forge, the description there is so Lovecraftian it gave me goosebumps.
Fantastic work. The depths of depravity that is the mechanicus are only rivaled by slanesh cults and the drukari. Truly the most despicable of the human factions. For that reason my knight household is imperialis and my kriegers mostly use horses with minimal tech priest interference.
I was listening to this at work, expecting some fun and quirky Mechanicus hijinks. Instead I got a earful of pure horror. I like the Adeptus Mechanicus a lot, and I had to just lean back, take a breath and just whisper "Ok." Congratulations, this just ended up high on my list of reasons not to ever visit the 40k verse if there is a possibility for it.
Man, that tech priest is gonna get fucking assassinated by an inquisitor sanctioned assassinorum operative, and will have earned every second of an eversor playing with its robotic ribs.
The Flesh Is Weak The Machine is Forever The Spirit Is Eternal Be careful who you disrespect Especially out of ignorance Out of entitlement Revenge is a dish best served ice cold Life is Vicious
My man. Wtf are you talking about. He insulted the heart of the forge as "abomination" thus the tech priest made him an abomination. It's not even the slightest bit subtle. The priest calls him abomination (the insult the prince used previously) and smiles after saying that. The first 20 minutes of this story IS the prequel ... xd
My God, this has been the most terrifying and depressive story I have read, at least in the W40K universe. It really puts into perspective the amount of terror that humans endure during the long Millennia of the Imperium . And to think this was just a political statement of the actual "good" side of the Mechanicus. I have heard this story at least 2 times, and I don't think this will ever leave me. Both the writer and Vox did an amazing job, this was more 40K than anything I have heard from Black Library, ever.
Just discovered this feature and this is absolutely one of my favorite AM 40K stories… and narrated to perfection. Thank you for what you give to the community xx
I am glad I understand the Mechanicus this much better. If I ever decide to go tabletop my model priorities will be thus: Space marines Orks Mechanicus Chaos marines Mechanicus Drukari Dark Mechanicum More Space and Chaos marines Mechanicus Tyranids Dark Mechanicum ect, ect.
This was incredible a perfect mix of body horror and disturbing imagery Exactly why I love the mechanicus Which asks the question if these are the good guys then what the hell are the dark mechanicus doing
The mechanicus are unique, and absolutely horrifying. Love them as a faction, but that comes with understanding that they can be absolute bastards. Remember, most magos remove the parts of their brains that have emotion, they are without remorse.
There is something paradoxical in the real world about emotions and decision making. There are some peoples with brain damage, that they cannot form emotions properly. But that means that they are often in the endless loops in all of mundane decisions.. like what apple to take from the hundreds present in the shop. What pen to write with, even if on the table are two same. Insignificant, small things, nothing to wonder about for normal people. Emotions often creates shortcuts that rationale cannot decide. Source: BBC The Brain series. Many interesting things presented there.
This story is one of my favorites it sounds like there trying to tell you whats going to happen in the future it's amazing i recommend this story to all the people who stumble upon it❤️🔥
The Adeptus Mechanicus is the slow adaptation of the body to machine as a divine process for mankind to achieve in a slow process to allow the human body to gradually become normalize to its new condition, but that what make the process of being a Servantor dangerous as that process is without mercy and is rapid to the point of madness.
There is nothing in any lore that scares me as much as the Cult of the Mechanicum. It’s the only aspect of the 40k universe that I can see as a real possibility in our future and that terrifies me.
this story haunts me. i've been listening to it every night before i fall asleep, the sounds and voices are so good it's enthralling. Horrible yet addictive.
I put this video on while I was in bed, starting to drift off, and then my eyes flew open once I heard Maximillian call the heart of the Forge an abomination. I almost exclaimed out loud, “ God Dammit you fool you’ve really done it now!” I clutched my blanket in horror and felt bile rise in my throat as I listened to the screams and the description of Maximilian’s forced augmentations. Well done- this story was gripping and beautifully horrific.
Holy shit bro! Him getting castrated had me pause this and go on a break. I had to chill out for an hour before I came back. I love this nightmare fuel you guys made.
That's where an Eversor is needed most... To remind the arrogant that there are always consequences to actions... Maybe this can be told in another story... Thank you for the story, great narration!
@@Anton43218 The Eversor Temple is possibly the most gruesome of the many temples that train Imperial Assassins for the Officio Assassinorum. The Eversor Assassins specialize in shock and terror tactics, instilling fear of Imperial retribution into the hearts and minds of all who hold positions of power in the Imperium of Man.
I didn't fully understand just how terrible Servitors are or just how monstrous the Mechanicus is until this, Thanks! I am now fully aware of the horrific nature of one of my favorite factions
This one really hit the spot. The tone and weight of your narration was wonderful, the background sounds were perfect and the choice of vocabulary evoked such a visceral feeling of dread and despair. This has been my 5th time listening to it, and I keep getting pulled into the scenes you describe as if I'm the poor sod getting a mechanicus make over! Hats off to you Vox, you've got the magic that's for sure!
I like listening to horror to help me fall asleep. Been doing it every night for years now. Not too often it actually keeps me up instead. Don't know if I'm mad, impressed, or just too horrified to care lmao. Well done.
People should remember, the entire point of the setting, ie. the tabletop game, which whether you like it or not is what its all about, is that death is a reprieve from the horrors of life, and that to receive true death is a blessing, as far worse fates await all who live. Its the galaxy as one huge death cult with many flavors.
Oh God, the snipping bit got me. This is unbelievably horrific. Well done to the author and narrator/producer, as well as the cover artist. It is all appreciated so very much.
![THE RISE & FALL OF THE MECHANICUM OF MARS | WARHAMMER 40,000 Lore [Mechanicus History]](/img/n.gif)
I’m reminded of a definition of true horror I heard years ago. It’s a seeping feeling that crawls into your subconscious making you feel fear long term. I listened to this before work this morning and that’s exactly what happened.
I spent the day on edge, this close to overwhelming sense of dread infecting every thought.
The pacing and imagery you and the author provide brought this story to life in a way I’ve never experienced. Your both truly masters of your craft .
This is a truly humbling message to read. Thankyou for the kind words of support
Humbling yet deserved. From one small fan, your truly deserving of the adoration and praise you get for your work.
Whatever I’ve said applies to yourself as well. Thank you both for this harrowing experience.
@Stephen Duxbury you did a SUPERB job Stephen
That's why I became a member. It is important to support great channels like this.
Imagine if Maximillion's parents conceived or adopted another child and kept Max around.
"You see that servitor? That's your older brother. He didn't know how to keep his mouth shut around the Mechanicus. You don't want to end up like him, do you?"
Yup the son wasn't the first Lordling to have their limbs and genitals chopped off.
Tbh I could see it, they’d outfit him to be a combat/security model for the new head of the house
That's just grimdank. Lmao
You just made it worse without even being asked.
Right
Just goes to show that The Adeptus Machanicus are still HUMAN after all. At least when it comes to being spiteful and vengeful.
Hate is what makes the Imperium, the Imperium. It is what powers the humans
No matter how many slices of flesh they carve out and replace it with metal, hatred will always remain
Managed to retain all negative aspects of humanity
Ya literaly only kept the worst bits and tossed away all the good parts.
@@JeanLucCaptain ..that's what happens when mechanicus sex has reached far above the levels of mechanical observences, that chaffing and friction sores alone cannot surpass...
@@JeanLucCaptain and leave it on the butcher's floor
"...and Maximilian never thought in words again..."
A perfect culmination of the most horrific piece of literature I have ever consumed.
Agreed...
Bye bye tongue and frontal cortex. I prayed for the purity of the machine god
I totally agree!
I have witnessed many things in real life.
I have read inumerable horror tales of both fiction and sci-fi. But..
This is uniquely horrific for some reason I can't put my augmetic finger on?
@@ArnoldJudasRimmer.. it made me think, can we think in any other way besides words.
@@nomorework11 you can think in emotions. he'll be thinking in emotions that he can never understand or articulate. cursed to be confused and miserable until they let him die.
"The mechanicus are dangerous and they have their rules: respect the machine"
*a few minutes later*
"The heart of the machine is an abomination!"
Who could have seen that coming? He may as well have told them that their favorite toaster was not efficient!
Good point.
This had a real Willy Wonka and the Servator Factory vibe to it...A kid and his guardian are visiting the factory and the kid just sort of...falls into the machinery...and an Oompah-Loompah castrates him.
Phenomenal work, here!
Haha! I love this!
YOU GET NOTHING! YOU LOSE! GOOD DAY, SIR!
lol fantastic comment! I love how some people's minds work..
@@FunkBastid "YOUR GAIN IS NULL. YOUR SUCCESS IS IMMATERIAL. THE FLESH IS WEAK."
Too bad this didn’t happen to grandpa joe
Calling the heart of the forge an abomination? You better believe that's a paddlin!
He was right though, the entire mechanicus is a menagerie of abominations.
@@andreasmuller4666 he was right, absolutely right, the Mechanicus are horrific abominations
Socrates spoke the truth and everyone hated him for it.
A paddelin??? That was a execution with out right killing him. By the throne……smh.
And she took it personally
I feel like telling him "hold your tongue & don't insult them or they will turn you into a servitor" beforehand could've prevented this
"They wouldn't dare do such a thing to a noble of the Imperium!" He would say foolishly, it would not have changed anything...
The seneschal/advisor pretty much did. He said they have rules, above all…respect the machine spirit.
Then the guide says “behold…the heart forge of the machine!”, and…he calls it “an abomination.”
But agree the adviser could have been more specific than “watch your tongue.”
Just to remind everyone: this is LOYALIST Mechanicus.
Damn....
There was an episode in Hammer n Bolter where a Tech priest killed a Guardsman at a campfire too. It seems they are best avoided.
And the Hereticus has the Daemonculaba.
@@mikee9464 bro made a campfire on an Ork-infested world and the Tech priest even told him that was not smart 😂he kinda deserved it💀
Yeah dark Mechanicus is way worse.
“You know, the more I learn about these Adeptus guys I’m starting to think….. they’re a bunch of jerks!” Normicus MacDonarian XIII. 39,996.
I didn’t even know he was sick…
this made me laugh out loud.
Nah, they are alright, just an old chunk of coal
Didn't think I'd see this type of comment down here hahaha thank you sir
They are also the only hope humans have left
The Noble called their machines and abomination, so they decided to turn him into one. Great voice acting
Not only was the future high Lord of Terra an idiot who insulted one of their holys of holys it's likely the Mechanicus wanted to weed out someone who could become a threat in the future. I best plenty of young lords have "accidentally" got lost and turned into a servitor or fallen into machinery throughout the millennia lol
Yea don't fuck with the mechanicus
All he had to do was smile and nod, maybe slip in a “that’s pretty badass” and he fucked it up.
“D-damn, the E-Emperor is truly g-g-glorious”
Mechanicus is truly sorry for this units error, a clone will be made and provided as compensation. Pray no future errors arise with this one.
Callidus Assassin to your rusty ass door.
Not even a clone... It's like an accident happening on a school trip to a sausage factory and saying "Oops! Our bad! Here you go, have a pack of sausages containing bits of your child."
@@DanSherryOfTheTon the son is just meat, he is replaceable. The forge is not
can this clone execute order 66?
Can you imagine raising a clone of this guy while his shattered remains still haunt a robot living there with them? That’s hell on top of hell.
Love the utter dehumanization of the lead here. The mechanicus violated him on every level. The physical violation of chopping limbs and mounting plates on his torso, the sexual violation of needlessly neutering him like an animal for the sake of never reproducing again, and the spiritual violation of snipping his brain and never allowing him to function as a human beside maybe on a very, below animal standard way of feeling the basic emotions of acknowledging pain, sadness and knowing something is wrong but never being able to actually think deeper about it.
Very dark stuff! I hate it and love it!
26:00 Ian Watson tribute. 31:00 it is worth noting that, canonically, the lobectomy (removal of the cerebrum) happens first in the servitorization process. An _interesting_ irregularity atop an 'accident', yes?
They did it last to torture him more.
A little bit of mechanicus humour.
A fun work place prank if you will.
@@SubOptimate "Wow, we were just really off our game yesterday, no rhythm at all sorry."
@@lordzon tech priest: 😏hey now accidents can happen. We have to process a lot of fleshlings so yeah its not a shock we have a few mistakes here and there.
🤷
@@ludovicusbathory1715 "Really, if you look at our percentages adjusted for input and output quotas, I think any reasonable member of the Adeptus Terra will see just how much value for mon-- resources we provide."
Mechanicus memes: hehe toster
Mechanicus lore: *nightmarish horrors beyond comprehension*
Cranky noble: That thing in that forge is an *abomination*!
Tech Priest: AAAAAND we'll write that off as an accidental servitorization *whoops*.
Y'know? Forgeworld stuff.
I love the foreshadowing that takes place in the Space Port as Maximillian watches all the Servitors skirt around, refueling shuttles, moving hoses and barrels from place to place, following Tech Adepts to the next menial task, on and on in perpetuity. Im sure that, somewhere in the back of his subconscious mind, Maximillian thought "seeing this gives a new appreciation to be a human; I am grateful this is not my fate" All the while not knowing that he was soon to be one of them
It's the same feeling I have whenever I see homeless and poor people, one bad day and the entire lifes work will go down the drain.
Horrifying really.
@@purevertmhmm
As someone who's building a mechanicus army I am more than happy to read the depths of their inhumanity. Thank you for making me fear my own favorite faction.
Same Admech player. This story what a fun. Stupi fleshy humans not understending the pure and holy machine. Good ending.
Good thing the faction isn’t all like this planet.
oh they quite human, its the fact they're physically monstrous but all too human
@@gaslighter9299
That's what you choose to believe, silly mortal. You are replaceable meat, extraneous and not required for function. Mars requires cogs to fulfill its purpose, the will of motion is already within the forge. Your opinion is an unneeded distraction to the proliferation of the Omnissiah throughout space. Go forth, age, become feeble, request bionics from the Mechanicus...and when you die, those same augments shall be harvested from you. After a certain point, your life is simply on loan from the Mechanicus - it will be taken back, in time.
Inhuman? This story portrays the Admech as extremely human. Only humans can be this petty.
It may have been the weak flesh of the Techpriest's emotions that demanded vengeance for the slight, but it was the cold calculation of the machine that approved it.
Utterly terrifying. I'm guessing he didn't need to be conscious for the operation but the Tech Priest made a special request that he was pumped full of stims so he understood what a collosal insult he had made.
What insult exactly?
@@bryanmcclure2220 He called the heart of the forge and giant infernal engine the burnt up people an "ABOMINATION". Again it's like a a very enthusiastic Christian shows someone the cross with a sculpture of Jesus nailed to it, and that person not understanding the imagery calls the object of worship a "sick, sadistic abomination."
@@whydid666 so this dude Walked to their house and disrespect their icon of worship....Man don't piss on people's beliefs.
@@bryanmcclure2220 He referred to the Heart of the Forge, probably the most sacred area of the Cult Mechanicus as "An Abomination" That likely doesnt ingratiate him with the techpriest, who then, as per the title, turns him into an Abomination.
@@thomrade When you put it like that yeah he was kind of stupid.
Thanks, Vox. I haven't been waking up screaming for the last couple of months.
Well said….
You can wake up not screaming?!?
No idea mate no idea
Well what the hell were you thinking. As soon as I saw that terrible title I knew what time it is
I do every night cool ha I sleep like 30 minutes at most
Goosebumps...after 35yrs of doing Horror and mankinds worst stories, this one really got that ol' feel of first times watching movies and listening to Horrorstories back again. Thank you for this and have a creative year of the dragon...PLZ🙏
From the moment I understood the weakness of my flesh, it disgusted me. I craved the strength and certainty of steel. I aspired to the purity of the blessed machine.
Your kind cling to your flesh as if it will not decay and fail you. One day, the crude biomass you call a temple will wither, and you will beg my kind to save you. But I am already saved. For the Machine is Immortal.
Even in death, i serve the omnissiah
Well put!
dood! you play video games too?
There is a video of a snake with robot legs with that qoute playing in the background...
Praise be to the Omnissiah
This is actually a bastardised quote from another magos in one of the pen and paper RPG books that they used in the game. It's an awesome line though.
This has almost a H.P Lovecraft vibe just at some of the descriptions of massive forges on a scale so mind bending that it creeps into the cosmic.
This audio story really is true terror and holy shit the voice actor is insanely good.
Thankyou very much!
Without a doubt, this is the most impressive and evocative story and narration involving the Adeptus Mechanicus that I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying. This is one of the finest examples of dystopian sci-fi/horror. I am in awe. Thank you!!!
Thankyou David! It was a pleasure to read!
I mean... it's good.
Fax no printer...
Be helarious of a borg invasion just shows up and start hoovering up all and sundry. ad mech and imperium they don't give a damn.
This was the most horrific story I have ever heard.
And in this story we got a glimpse of the true horror of the 40k universe.
I’m used to horror as I’m used to life, but this story took that to such a level that I am grateful for the life that I have.
I think this story out of all the ones on the channel truly embodies the theme of 'Grim Dark'
This poor minor lord made the one mistake you don't ever do with the Mechanicus. Insult a tech priest. Been doing some lore diving with the Mechanicus for the past few weeks so this was a VERY fitting story to listen to Vox! The Imperium and the Mechanicus may be united...but it is far from a perfect union. Stories like this are a reminder of how alien the Mechanicus is from the Imperium...and truly there are worse things then death.
Tech Priest: "This unit does not care about your petty insults Lordling, insulting the perfection of the Forge Machine in this one's presence on the other hand..."
And hearing it again, makes me wonder if it was “just” the “abomination” comment that sealed his fate, or was he doomed from the start and the Mechanicus had already planed for him to be “a message” to his family or all Imperial nobility.
It is my great misfortune to have listened to this right before a dental appointment tomorrow. Oh well, at least Slaanesh shall be pleased with my terror.
This comment reminds me of a certain comic about a bike and the overall joy in the world going up
He was remade(blessed) in the Omnissiah's image. Praise the purity of the machine
I've listened to this twice now. Excellent storytelling and pacing and imagery, the ending is truly nightmarish. I especially like the detail of the Tech Priest's teeth rotting, as if she doesn't care and embraces the weakness and decay of her flesh, soon to be replaced by the machine. I can see how a lot of them would care little for their physical bodies beyond subsistence, grooming and basic hygiene are probably a secondary thought. Imagine being a normal human on an alien planet putting your trust in that? Also how Gregarious notes that Mechanicus perfectly understands Imperial social norms but they intentionally violate them.
Thank you for the wonderful message my friend! 🤘
@@AVoxintheVoid Thank you for your fine work!
As an AdMech player, I really love this more 'horrific' depiction of the Mechanicus. They are too often just seen as allies of the Imperium, if not its defacto subjects. Few people within the Imperium (or even in the 40k fandom) realize what they truly are.
This was a ride through some serious body horror I loved it!
I was literally salivating at the thought of narrating this! My inner gore hound was awoken!
Brilliant as always!
Cheers!
Well if you think about it, the techpriest honoured the lordling by allowing him to see the heart of the forge... I imagine that in her mind, it was also a test to what he said earlier, if it was just empty words or he actually understood how important the machine cult is. And then he went on and called it an abomination. Poor child he was just too young to understand the gravity of the situation.
The boy was warned not to fall for their tricks. And he paid dearly. Listening to that transformation reminded me of the pain I went thru with 3rd degree burns and the skin grafts. Ugh I can only imagine. When you spoke of them pinching the nerve I physically shook my hands and my feet squirmed in my shoes. Bloody hell.
I feel like he could be warned a little bit better. "oh btw, if you mess up, they'll turn you into a cyborg slave".
Practically dripping with grim-dark. A vision of the true underbelly of the Mechanicus.
This is how (and always will) feel about the Warhammer universe. I'm lucky to get to work with authors who understand the grim dark aesthetic!
I'm truly sorry to hear about the loss of your [son/daughter - replace as appropriate] due to a therapeutic misadventure. It pains me to imagine the [enter probable feeling here] you must be experiencing. Losing a [loved one/relative] is an incredibly challenging and [REDACTED] experience, and I want you to know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. If there's anything I can do to provide support or lend a listening ear, please don't hesitate to let me know.
THIS is true Sci/fi horror. The added elements of the body horror all through 40k is one my favorite things about it. And the presentation was perfect! I got chills. Phenomenal work. I would LOVE to provide you with musical compositions for your narrations. I wouldn't even charge it would just be an honor.
Have you got any compositions that I can listen to anywhere? Thankyou for the continuing support!
This was a true 40k horror story. I could feel the terror of the man, helpless to do anything about it. wow, it was just messed up.
The mechanicus may not be afraid of imperial royalty, but if there is one thing the Badab war tought us, it's that imperial royalty can leave you with an inquisitor and several chapters of astartes at your door. Wouldn't want to risk my forge world getting blown up because an angry parent told the right inquisitor my adepts were abducting people and sacrificing them.
That’s Mars. Doing that would split and ultimately destroy the imperium
@@jonathanz.9675 Good. Win-Win situation.
You severly overestimate the worth a noble son. They're a dime a dozen. You know what's not a dime a dozen? The industrial output of a Forge World. Pretty easy equation to solve for who the imperium at large will care more about.
@@Awesomotron2k It's true but they might be able to get rid of that 1 Tech priest. Entire forge world would be too much. But killing A handful of lead Tech priest, Especially if they got someone high up in the mechanical to condemn them as Tech heretics, That should be doable.
He did this to himself by referring to the very heart of the forge and a religious icon in the eyes of the mechanicus as an "abomination" directly in front of the Techpriest. This is heresy in the eyes of the Mechanicus. There is a reason their religion is tolerated in the Imperium. But this is what sealed his fate in this story. The Imperium would not want to fight a war with the Machine Cults. They control a large portion of Imperial industry especially in weapons and equipment production. Also the gene seed for new chapters is modified and adapted on Mars by the Techpriests. They also are in command of the Titans of the Imperium.
If 'The Thing' had a vengeful streak and took pleasure in what it did, it'd be a very close 2nd to the terror of the Adeptus Mechanicus
"He was no fool"
He was in fact, the biggest fool.
I’ve made a huge mistake
Ruh roh Raggy
Despite my attempts, i can not say i have my way with words. But to hear the true terror of such a simple thing in the 40k universe brings tears of joy in my eyes (I am aware this sounds weird.). The music in the background, your narration, the pace of the story, the voices in it. All of it is just monumental. But what i loved most of all, and the thing i thoroughly respect in horror stories is the sheer raw brutality of the situations. I can just imagine the gore in my mind. You are great at your craft, both you, Vox and the writer. You have just made me love my Adeptus Mechanicus even more. All hail the Omnissiah!
A story straight out of the one famous John Blanche painting of the Mechanicus. Stellar work, as always!
John blanche is my hero
Amazing read of this story and damn was the ending dark. I was thinking about this story hours after I had listened to it.
surely a noble family would have the ability to make a clone of their sons body, reconnect the prefrontal cortex and then just transplant the brain and he would basically be fine? like with the amount of insane things others have done in 40K that doesn't seem too hard by comparison.
They could. But guess who is in charge of such tech and would have to do it all? The mechanicus.
@@Jplays23 imagine that conversation...
@@Jplays23 On the one hand yes, on the other with how big Imperium is, they can just contact other Forgeworld and have it done. I don't think Mechanicus is a monolyte like that. Not with the size of Imperium.
On the one hand yes, on the other I can imagine that young lordling start screaming his ass off as soon as he is awoken after operation, and needing to be put down after what he went through.
Pretty sure cloning is heretech.
I have a whole new view of the machanicus after listening to this, absolutely terrifying, body horror of this magnitude is something that I find scratches a certain part of my brain that just puts me on edge. The authors writing and your absolute chilling performance is among the best you've done to date ❤️
Thankyou so much for taking the time to message Emil. Means a lot to read these words of support
The deacriptions & voicing, the background effects & subtle music, I haven't FELT good horror like this in a LONG time. Suspence, existential dread, primal fear, & gore all in one package. Bravo!
Such a great message to read! Thank you!
What a nightmare. The stories in this channel really put a very vivid account to the grim darkness of this universe. Thank you so much.
Excellent Story and audio
This…this right here.
THIS is why you DONT mess with the Mechanicum!!
Splendid work!
On both parts writing and your reading.
When a fictional story can make you squirm you know it’s well done.
Stephen is a truly talented author. I was honoured to narrate it
This piece and the description of the Mechanicus in the Day of Ascension book show just how brutal the cog boys really are.
I freaking loved that novel
By the OMNISSIAH. This is some of the most amazing voice work I have ever had the privilege of experiencing.
this is high praise indeed! Thankyou Liam!
This was my first ever WH40K audio story and it blew my mind. It had no idea it was this dark! The ending made me gasp and go " Holy Sh*t" a few times. True horror! I loved it! I'm listening to all your stories before bed now. I'm hooked! Thanks for this amazing content!
Thankyou so much! Glad to have you here my friend
I mean, this is pretty up there even for 40k
@@timthetiny7538No wonder, it's fanfiction 😂
Absolutely terrifying. I'm not sure if horror was what you were going for, but it was achieved masterfully nonetheless. Had chills running up and down my spine and goosebumps at the end. Had to take a step back and remind myself it wasn't real I was so drawn in. Fantastic work.
It most definitely was billed as a horror story to me! I tried to keep that element a surprise. Glad it had that effect on you sir! 😎
@@AVoxintheVoid This story is absolutely amazing, the slow build up of walking through the forge with the constant heat, then the reveal of the heart of the forge, the description there is so Lovecraftian it gave me goosebumps.
It’s not real…… yet.
I forgot it isn't true. It is reality only if I belive in it. Still AdMech fan...
"I'm not sure if horror was what you were going for," LOL... 'really' dude?
Praise be to the Omnissiah for blessing my in-adequate and unworthy ears of flesh with this most holy rendition!
Fantastic work. The depths of depravity that is the mechanicus are only rivaled by slanesh cults and the drukari. Truly the most despicable of the human factions. For that reason my knight household is imperialis and my kriegers mostly use horses with minimal tech priest interference.
I was listening to this at work, expecting some fun and quirky Mechanicus hijinks.
Instead I got a earful of pure horror. I like the Adeptus Mechanicus a lot, and I had to just lean back, take a breath and just whisper "Ok."
Congratulations, this just ended up high on my list of reasons not to ever visit the 40k verse if there is a possibility for it.
I had no idea that the mechanics could be so cruel or petty.. damn that hurt my heart and loins😅😱😭🥺
Honestly this was a little too petty even by 40k standard.
They are still human and can be just as cruel and petty as any other.
Keep in mind, it's fanfiction, not canon.
Man, that tech priest is gonna get fucking assassinated by an inquisitor sanctioned assassinorum operative, and will have earned every second of an eversor playing with its robotic ribs.
The best revenge, an eversor
This was beautiful in a horrific way. Horror that I actually physically felt. Well written art indeed.
I have been Listening to this over and over again
The delivery of the story is OUTSTANDING
Truly appreciated my brother! 🙏
All can serve the omnissiah, be it as an adept or as a simple servitor, for we are all gears in the great machine
If Elon Musk has his way we will all be wearing his brain implants making people into cyborgs or servitors.
Dark days ahead...
The Flesh Is Weak
The Machine is Forever
The Spirit Is Eternal
Be careful who you disrespect
Especially out of ignorance
Out of entitlement
Revenge is a dish best served ice cold
Life is Vicious
The machine comprehends the complexities the flesh fails to understand what is calculated.
Ah, the ad mech in their ignorance, arrogance, and delusions getting their own medicine.
@@insertname9736 - SMH
This was fire! Would love to have a prequel to this story, this sounded...personal.
“This was fire”
Yes inquisitor, this comment right here.
Theres nothing personal with the mechanicus. Dudes dont feel sh it.
@@ArantyrDarkhand yet it was, last part of the story confirms this.
My man. Wtf are you talking about. He insulted the heart of the forge as "abomination" thus the tech priest made him an abomination.
It's not even the slightest bit subtle. The priest calls him abomination (the insult the prince used previously) and smiles after saying that.
The first 20 minutes of this story IS the prequel ... xd
My God, this has been the most terrifying and depressive story I have read, at least in the W40K universe. It really puts into perspective the amount of terror that humans endure during the long Millennia of the Imperium . And to think this was just a political statement of the actual "good" side of the Mechanicus. I have heard this story at least 2 times, and I don't think this will ever leave me. Both the writer and Vox did an amazing job, this was more 40K than anything I have heard from Black Library, ever.
Just discovered this feature and this is absolutely one of my favorite AM 40K stories… and narrated to perfection. Thank you for what you give to the community xx
Thankyou so much for all of your support my brother. Really means the world! 🤘 Vox
I am glad I understand the Mechanicus this much better. If I ever decide to go tabletop my model priorities will be thus:
Space marines
Orks
Mechanicus
Chaos marines
Mechanicus
Drukari
Dark Mechanicum
More Space and Chaos marines
Mechanicus
Tyranids
Dark Mechanicum
ect, ect.
This was incredible a perfect mix of body horror and disturbing imagery
Exactly why I love the mechanicus
Which asks the question if these are the good guys then what the hell are the dark mechanicus doing
The same thing, only they're getting off to it. Think a cross between the AdMech and the Dark Eldar.
The same just add demons to the mix.
The mechanicus are unique, and absolutely horrifying. Love them as a faction, but that comes with understanding that they can be absolute bastards. Remember, most magos remove the parts of their brains that have emotion, they are without remorse.
But if they had no emotion, they would probably also not forcibly make a servitor out of you to make a point
@@Svartalfgeistpsychopaths have no emotion and they still like cutting people up
There is something paradoxical in the real world about emotions and decision making. There are some peoples with brain damage, that they cannot form emotions properly. But that means that they are often in the endless loops in all of mundane decisions.. like what apple to take from the hundreds present in the shop. What pen to write with, even if on the table are two same. Insignificant, small things, nothing to wonder about for normal people. Emotions often creates shortcuts that rationale cannot decide. Source: BBC The Brain series. Many interesting things presented there.
Don't recall a happy ending in an of these short stories. Love it. Thx
Yeah...I don't tend to read those kind of stories.. keepin it grim dark yo
This didn't hit me completely until I thought about it happening to my son and not myself. Then it ruined my whole weekend
This story is one of my favorites it sounds like there trying to tell you whats going to happen in the future it's amazing i recommend this story to all the people who stumble upon it❤️🔥
in my second run...still the same grim feeling deep down in my gut...just perfekt
Me too
The Adeptus Mechanicus is the slow adaptation of the body to machine as a divine process for mankind to achieve in a slow process to allow the human body to gradually become normalize to its new condition, but that what make the process of being a Servantor dangerous as that process is without mercy and is rapid to the point of madness.
so good, now i know what to listen when i need to sleep........not because it's effing boring but because of the calm readers voice
That vouce is mesmerizing, WOW!❤
Only just discovered this channel, will be watching almost all videos going forward. Really great content, fantastic work bravo.
Glad you found your way here brother!
Rather well done. Pleased to have caught this. I look forward to perusing your other content.
There is nothing in any lore that scares me as much as the Cult of the Mechanicum. It’s the only aspect of the 40k universe that I can see as a real possibility in our future and that terrifies me.
Had to listen to this twice. You have a gift for bringing these stories to life, and 40K horror is super effective with the right authors.
Holy feth. This is an absolute tour de force of writkng and acting.
A truly fascinating and horrifying story and one of your best at that.
Thank you for all the effort, it was well worth it.
It was absolutely my pleasure to narrate this story. Stephen is a truly wonderful author that I can't wait to work more with in the future!
this story haunts me. i've been listening to it every night before i fall asleep, the sounds and voices are so good it's enthralling. Horrible yet addictive.
This is a steange thing to do
@@johnanon658 very hahaha....I listened once and struggled to forget it. It was that horrific haha!
''He suddenly had the absurd thought that this couldn't be real... that he was about to wake up... that this couldn't possibly be canon!''
Loll
Horrifying
40K-style stroggification in narration form!
A masterpiece of horror. The music, the voice acting, the narration! Superb!
And we wonder why so many people fall to Chaos. I'd love to see the Sensorians pay those admech a visit...
I put this video on while I was in bed, starting to drift off, and then my eyes flew open once I heard Maximillian call the heart of the Forge an abomination. I almost exclaimed out loud, “ God Dammit you fool you’ve really done it now!” I clutched my blanket in horror and felt bile rise in my throat as I listened to the screams and the description of Maximilian’s forced augmentations. Well done- this story was gripping and beautifully horrific.
_>Hears the part about certain dangly bits being chopped off_
_>Crossing of legs & uncomfortable squirming intensifies_
Masterpiece! Congratulations to both you and the writer!
Holy shit bro! Him getting castrated had me pause this and go on a break. I had to chill out for an hour before I came back. I love this nightmare fuel you guys made.
Our work....is done!
Hahaha don't watch any Night lords videos for your own sake
Oh god I missed that the first time...
Yeah it's brutal how it's treated as another drop in the bucket, in the totalizing nature of the torture.
That's where an Eversor is needed most... To remind the arrogant that there are always consequences to actions... Maybe this can be told in another story... Thank you for the story, great narration!
What's an eversor?
@@Anton43218 The Eversor Temple is possibly the most gruesome of the many temples that train Imperial Assassins for the Officio Assassinorum. The Eversor Assassins specialize in shock and terror tactics, instilling fear of Imperial retribution into the hearts and minds of all who hold positions of power in the Imperium of Man.
@@SuperZoidZilla and you say that the eversor would attack the mech priest which mutilated the boy from a noble family?
@@Anton43218an eversor assassin would delete the tech priest and nobody would even notice
I didn't fully understand just how terrible Servitors are or just how monstrous the Mechanicus is until this, Thanks! I am now fully aware of the horrific nature of one of my favorite factions
The scary thing is that the vast majority of Servator's biological parts are from mindless clones. They dinnae need tae use actual humans!
@@darthlazurus4382 well, cloning is useful
But Servitorization is a good way to get rid of prisoners or people who aren't of much use
@Wiiblii
I was just meaning it's cruel because it's unnecessary.
This one really hit the spot.
The tone and weight of your narration was wonderful, the background sounds were perfect and the choice of vocabulary evoked such a visceral feeling of dread and despair.
This has been my 5th time listening to it, and I keep getting pulled into the scenes you describe as if I'm the poor sod getting a mechanicus make over!
Hats off to you Vox, you've got the magic that's for sure!
I like listening to horror to help me fall asleep. Been doing it every night for years now. Not too often it actually keeps me up instead.
Don't know if I'm mad, impressed, or just too horrified to care lmao. Well done.
People should remember, the entire point of the setting, ie. the tabletop game, which whether you like it or not is what its all about, is that death is a reprieve from the horrors of life, and that to receive true death is a blessing, as far worse fates await all who live. Its the galaxy as one huge death cult with many flavors.
Oh God, the snipping bit got me. This is unbelievably horrific. Well done to the author and narrator/producer, as well as the cover artist. It is all appreciated so very much.