“Master, our Void Shields are failing! We are taking direct hits to Section 3 Engineering. Decompression on twelve decks,” shouted the Vassal.

“By the Emperor’s will…” Chapter-Master Haemon grumbled beneath his breath, more a curse than an actual an acceptance of his circumstance.

The truth was the Penance was a sluggish ship to maneuver. Any reasonably well trained cadet knew there was little chance the barge would stick together in any sort of fighting form to retaliate. Its slow port turn was the last throes of a doomed ship.