When Astorath’s axe came to rest on Lemartes’ neck, the Chaplain did something no other victim of the Black Rage ever had – he begged for his life, that he may continue to serve his Chapter and the Emperor.
 
His remarkable lucidity, even in the throes of the Black Rage, made Lemartes the perfect figure to lead the Death Company in battle, where he can direct their blood-crazed fury into something almost resembling a battle plan and ensure their lives are spent as best as possible.