[center][h1]The Council of Nikaea: Day Two[/h1][/center]
[h3]Year: 001.M31[/h3]
[hr]
[img]https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steamcommunity/public/images/items/241620/a1dcab3001f4145ae81134690476e6af98337e7f.jpg[/img]
[hr]

Again, the time came for the Primarchs and High Lords to come together in union, for the sake of discussion of the matter of the Edict and other such considerations. Much less dramatically pertinent were the arrivals of each Primarch and their retinue, and likewise those at the topmost podium, who took similar positions as previously, in particular Malcador at centre stage and the Emperor of Mankind behind and to one side of him.

Mixed in amongst those faces seen from the previous session of the Council, were some new arrivals. The Primarch of the Seventh Legion, Nimue Arcadia approached the hall, entering with a small entourage of varied followers and aides. With her mere closeness to The Emperor, the golden aura that silhouetted her form dimmed, allowing the view of her facial features - practiced and stern, the usual conceited smugness known to the other Primarchs absent in face of their father. She wore a peculiar mixture of armour and elaborate dress, mixing ornate jewelry, silks, ruffles, pleats and frills of a princess with the armoured curaise and segmented metals of a chivalric knight, the armours at times gilded and decorated in thorny roses, fleur de leis and symbolic etchings of bees, though the colours somewhat difficult to make out amongst the shimmering dim aura and sparkles of golden aether drifting away from her form. It was, in all honesty, not as outrageous as was the norm with Nimue - and some of her entourage in fact were dressed far more outrageous or provocatorily. 

Nimue did not speak or announce her arrival. She gave slight nods to those Primarchs in attendance, even the target of her infamous rivalry, the Primarch Micholi. Some of these gestures were more genuine, perhaps. She held knowing eye contact with Sekmetara, and her nod was perhaps deeper for the Primarchs of the first and eighth Legions, and, to perhaps unusual confusion - even the ninth. At the end of this focal point of attention, Nimue drifted into a seating arrangement with her attendees surrounding her, and the procession continued as planned.

After the majority of attendants had arrived Prometheus entered the room dressed simply in a toga praetexta, a robe with a striking purple stripe over one shoulder. As Prometheus reached his place he waited briefly before speaking “My apologies to everyone. Certain duties needed attending to.” as he sat he gestured to Malcador yielding the floor “Thank you revered Malcador, please.”

While sat and listened however he frequently glanced at a data slate he carried and quickly typed brief messages, or whispering words to one of his attendants. While he was splitting his attention between the meeting itself and his duties elsewhere he could easily follow both.

‘Welcome back, once again, to the Conclave of the War Council of the Great Crusade, stationed upon the planet of Nikaea in Year 001 of the 31st Millennium,’ Malcador greeted, in a manner suspiciously close to the previous convening of the conclave’s members, dryness and all. ‘Now, I shan’t reiterate the purpose of this conclave over and over, and instead I will merely note in brief that we left off previously in discussion of the Edict of Tolerance, wherein certain attendees were somewhat sidetracked by matters that did not directly concern the Edict itself.’ He firmly looked over the guilty parties from prior proceedings. ‘Preferably, we would be able to keep our consideration of evidence on either side of the discussion statistically objective, rather than anecdotal and based on personal feeling - or, at the very least, pertinent to the given matter directly.

‘But you are presumably aware of this by now. Nonetheless,’ he continued bluntly, ‘we shall continue with the discussion of the Edict of Tolerance, as the primary topic of the conclave. I hereby declare the Council of Nikaea is in attendance.’ A tap of his gavel, and he let himself fall silent again.

A vox-cast system then blared to life, and the resonant, booming voice of one of the Emperor’s Custodes made a firm declaration.

[i]”Now will follow a brief review of all evidence admitted before this Council. 

Equerry Issnos Traal of the Ninth Astartes Legion as sponsored by Primarch Sarghaul Tartareus has submitted exhibits addressing the frequency of overt and covert defiance of the Imperium. They have observed that in the history of the Crusade, all Xenos near-peers have elected to wage war with the Imperium and that to date, the only Xenos species to be successfully Edicted have been primitives or nascent spacefaring powers. The Equerry also submitted the opinion testimony that Edicted Xenos species subjugated by the Edict do so only as a bid to undermine the Imperium from within. Additional details as to the presented exhibits have been distributed to all appropriate parties.

Doctor Ulrinne Rikhnar of the Saravata Ministry of Domestic Affairs as sponsored by Chief Biblitekaya and Equerry of the Sixteenth Legion Ayushmatki Nanavna has submitted a number of exhibits detailing the morphology and characteristics of several Xenos species and an associated model for analyzing and determining the relative cognitive and physiological similarities between Xenos Species and Baseline Humanity. The Doctor has also proposed that Xenos species with high degrees of similarity to Humanity according to this model are suitable for Ediction, and that there exists a high degree of correlation between successful Ediction and Integration of Xenos species within this range with equal living conditions and treatment under the law relative to humans. A comprehensive and detailed list of these exhibits has been distributed to all appropriate parties.

Primarch Ahgnemir Thordemir Ehgnarlothna Porganiga has submitted a number of exhibits detailing the morphology and characteristics of several Xenos species. A comprehensive and detailed list of these exhibits has been distributed to all appropriate parties.

Logis Karoa of the Mechanicum as sponsored by Primarch Augor Astren has submitted an analytical model indicating that rebellion amongst Edicted Xenos Species is inevitable across time, and that such Xenos are twenty times as likely as rebelling Human polities to form non-Compliant Xenos states. Human rebels, even in instances where they rebel against the Imperium writ large, are projected to become more likely over time to remain Compliant states post-rebellion.

Lord Marshal Troves of the Adeptus Arbites as sponsored by Primarch Micholi Vakarian has submitted expert testimony and statistical data indicating that crime committed by Edicted Xenos species relative to Humans is significantly lower in frequency, and in many cases the frequency of crime within a given planetary populace dropped substantially due to the introduction of Edicted Xenos species.

Data Scribe Tulaara of the Administratum as sponsored by Primarch Sekhemetara Khafre has submitted an expenditures and gains analysis model that describes the associated costs of rendering Edicted Xenos civilizations compliant and the benefits accrued by their subjugation to the Imperium. The model indicates that Edicting Xenos species is significantly more resource and time intensive than other avenues of recourse. The model also shows that Xenos species with minimal overlapping biological niches with Humanity demonstrate a substantial return on production efforts once rendered Compliant. Xenos species with significant fundamental overlaps with Humanity biologically were not examined for this model.

Adept Malthus Turth of the Administratum as sponsored by Primarch Nimue Arcadia has submitted a number of economic models and records detailing the production trends upon Imperial worlds inhabited by Edicted Xenos species. The models show that surges in regional production quotas due to Xenos efforts, although factual, universally come at the price of disenfranchising Human Adepts of the Imperium within the same fields of labor and expertise.

Doctor Mingzhi Seshat of the Departmento Xenos as sponsored by Primarch Daena io Azrael submitted expert testimony regarding the ideal conditions and circumstances of Xenos morphology and culture for the purposes of becoming Edicted subjects of the Imperium of Man. In addition to broadly outlining the discriminatory parsing of unacceptable xenos species outlined in the Edict of Tolerance, the Doctor suggested that multicultural or primitive xenos species are the most suitable for Compliance and susceptible to external societal manipulation, especially if client xenos rulers sponsored by and reliant upon the Imperium for their political influence should come to power. She also suggested that xenos monocultures and insular, stable xenos hierarchies are vastly unsuitable for Ediction due to their resilience to external manipulation and subterfuge.

Equerry Elizabeta Von Hindeburg of the Seventh Astartes Legion as sponsored by Primarch Nimue Arcadia has submitted an omnibus of Xenos popular media from various worlds, calling for expansions upon Xenos species rights in manner violating both the Imperial Truth as well as the Edict of Tolerance. The Equerry went on to suggest that the Edict of Tolerance, as a consequence of its enactment, undermines the Imperial Truth.

Logis Oja of the Mechanicum as sponsored by Primarch Micholi Vakarian has submitted opinion testimony that Xenos revolt directed against the Imperial Truth is likely tied to to the relegation of Edicted Xenos species as underprivileged subjects of the Imperium relative to Humans, and that more equitable rights relative to Humans could reduce the likelihood of rebellion and non-Compliant activities.

Professor Fijani Scotik of the Kayaamat University of Ihled as sponsored by Chief Biblitekaya and Equerry of the Sixteenth Legion Ayushmatki Nanavna has submitted a historical analysis of the 777 worlds of Sarvata prior to and after their Compliance by the Primarch of the Sixteenth Legion, concluding that equalized rights and nondiscriminatory policies of governance between Humans and Edicted Xenos populations has resulted in noticeable overall economic growth and improved living standards upon each world.

Professor Ardis Gebawin of the Senatorum Imperialis as sponsored by Primarch Daena io Azrael submitted a lecture on the historical implementation of chattel slavery and the conditions under which chattel rebellions ensue and are sustained. His findings indicate that most rebellions are either incited externally or borne of internal political instability, which in the case of the Imperium of Man are both evidently impossible. The Professor then suggested that the benefit of exploiting indentured xenos populations would always outweigh the cost of any attempts at revolt, even if inevitable.

Magos Biologis Khalima Zro of the Mechanicum as sponsored by Primarch Prometheus has submitted expert testimony that attempting to understand the minds and cognitive processes of Xenos species is futile and infeasible and that research and study into these realms is highly speculative in nature. The Magos also indicates that Xenos are therefore inherently unpredictable, and should not be treated as Human.

Investigator Serris Vera of the Departmento Xenos as sponsored by Primarch Prometheus has submitted expert testimony implicating the existence of stolen and smuggled Xenos Heretech and Heretek factions within the criminal elements of every Edicted Xenos species. The Investigator further asserts that there exists evidence suggesting the existence of large caches of hidden Xenos Heretek within each Edicted populace of sufficient size to merit possible Edict Revocation.

Chief Biblitekaya and Equerry of the Sixteenth Astartes Legion Ayushmatki Navavna, sponsored under her own authority, has submitted the observation that their personal Xenos retainers have not once betrayed her and that they have never known any Xenos retainer of the Sixteenth legion or of the territory of Sarvata to have once betrayed the Imperium.

Legion Mistress Vairya Kurus of the Fourteenth Astartes Legion as sponsored by Primarch Daena io Azrael submitted the observation that their personal xenos retainers have not once betrayed her.

Praetor Johann Kohl of the Tenth Astartes Legion as sponsored by Primarch Arnulf Wode has submitted a power spear. It is approximately 1.83 meters in length and in good working order. Demonstrably capable of shearing through the surface of a wooden podium 2.1 meters tall by 0.61 meters wide.“[/i]

Once the voxed summary had concluded, Augor Astren immediately strode forth towards the central podium from his usual position in the chamber and ascended it, turning to face the remaining Primarchs. He then began to speak in a clear, even voice, amplified by the voxcaster built into the podium.

"Augor Astren, Primarch of the Stargazers, his Emperor's Twelfth Astartes Legion. Fabricator Intendant of the Forge World of Last Light." He stated, following the protocol laid out by the Sigilite at the beginning of the first day of debate, now more than a week past. He paused for a brief moment before carrying on.

"Brothers, sisters, my fellow Primarchs. In light of the [i]errant[/i] direction our last debate took and in the spirit of promoting productive and worthwhile discourse, it is my intention to begin this discussion by identifying and elaborating those points of this matter that each side of our debate agrees upon. A plethora of evidence has been heard by us and admitted to these proceedings, and though I imagine quite a few of us have a [i]diversity[/i] of opinions as to the nature and substance of each exhibit of evidence submitted..." Augor paused again to smile knowingly at the Primarchs - less full and earnest than the few he had shown previously, being more of a toothy smirk than anything else. "...there were nonetheless a few common elements that the evidence broadly supports. As my intention to abstain from the closing deliberations of these talks is already well-established, I shall present these points and propose that we structure our initial dialogue around them."

Augor raised a bionic talon in the air. "Firstly - all sides of this debate, opposed, supporting, and neutral, through the production of both expert testimony and analytical models, have concluded the same thing. The likelihood that any given Edicted Xenos populace shall rebel against the Imperium of Man is [i]inevitable[/i]." He paused to let the assertion hang in the air before continuing. "We have received opinion testimony that a number of Edicted Xenos [i]individuals[/i] have not yet betrayed their masters or the Imperium. It is understood that these findings are not indicative of an inherent absence of loyalty or honor amongst the individual Xenos specimens, which brings me..."

Augor then raised a second bionic talon. "To my second point. Each side has acknowledged through the evidence presented, at least once, that the most likely causal factor that shall serve to spark these rebellions shall be conditions inherent to the imposition of the Imperial Truth upon Edicted Xenos populations. If [i]certain[/i] evidence is to be believed, not only are Xenos far more likely to rebel specifically and particularly because of and over the Imperial Truth, but Human populations across time shall become less likely to do so and more likely to remain Compliant states post-revolt. This point is also supported by the observations of multiple of his Emperor's Astartes Legions from their many campaigns and efforts over the course of the ongoing Great Crusade: The Xenos species most preferable for Ediction are primitives, politically decentralized and unstable, or multiculturally diverse. Likewise, monocultures, developed and starfaring Xenos empires, and near-peer polities are seen as unsuitable. The only such Xenos polities to ever have been Edicted, in fact, are those that were already subsumed and governed by a Primarch. We are otherwise left with dozens of reports of uncooperative and defiant Xenos polities who have either utterly refused even the notion of Compliance outright even in the face of annihilation, or who otherwise endeavored to exploit it for subversive and hostile purposes. The root causes of this, once more, are inherently drawn back to the imposition of the Imperial Truth upon these populations - which brings me to my third and final point."

Augor raised a third bionic talon. "Each side of our debate, in the bodies of the analysis they have presented, have acknowledged the material and productive capabilities of Edicted Xenos populations. There has been some particularly varied data regarding this point, such as some statements that the superior productive capabilities of Edicted Xenos is either necessarily reliant upon the disenfranchisement of local Human populaces or otherwise requires factors such as non overlapping biological niches between the Edicted species and Humanity - despite this, all sides agree that the potential for materially useful and productive Edicted Xenos populations and efforts exists, and there is evidence to suggest this utility may even outweigh the associated costs of suppressing and quashing rebellion, however frequent."

Augor lowered his bionic talons and carried on. "It is with these three points in mind that I desire to present an inquiry directed towards those amongst us who would desire to support the Edict of Tolerance. Let us presume that all Edicted Xenos shall prove materially useful and productive for the joint purposes of the general enrichment of the Imperium and the facilitation of the Great Crusade. Let us also presume that this utility factually outweighs the associated costs and efforts of containing and ending their inevitable revolts. The very evidence presented to us that dictates what Xenos species are suitable for Ediction would also suggest that the inclusion of diverse cultural and societal Xenos elements amongst the Imperium of Man renders it susceptible and vulnerable to both internalized and externalized interference and subversion. Evidence presented by both sides of this discussion indicate that diverse multiculturalism renders a polity more susceptible to sophisticated manipulation and exploitation, and promotes or is otherwise indicative of internal political instability. Given it has also been stated that Human populations will become less likely over time to rebel due to the Imperial Truth or against it, it might be claimed that an equally rebellious but more ideologically consistent and Compliant Human population would be preferable to a more productive but less Compliant Xenos population. My inquiry is thus: How can it be proven or otherwise demonstrated that the short or even long-term material and productive gains of Edicting Xenos is preferable to the use of Human populations that are more culturally and ideologically cohesive? How can it be shown that Edicting Xenos will not create the very same societal and logistical vulnerabilities within the Imperium of Man as have been identified amongst countless Empires that the Imperium of Man has exploited in order to subjugate, particularly in regards to the Imperial Truth? The inevitability of rebellion and the associated costs of handling it is one thing to accept. It is quite another to suggest we should tolerate or even humor open dissent directed against the Imperial Truth, regardless of [i]any[/i] related degree of material gain for doing so."

With that, Augor descended from the central podium. "I now relinquish the floor and my inquiry to the ruminations of my fellow Primarchs."

Prometheus rose first claiming the floor, “I agree with the question Augor.” He bows respectfully towards his sibling, “Though I would emphasize a part of it. Should the Imperium simply absorb the recurring cost of sequential rebellion. Perhaps the first rebellion does not cost the Imperium much in the way of lives or material, but the second? The tenth? How many insurrections will the Imperium bear? Furthermore will the productivity of the xenos outweigh this compared to the single investment of cleansing their worlds and resettling them with baseline humans?” he pauses but remains standing sweeping his gaze across the assembled Primarchs and lords of the Imperium. 

“I would argue, any singular investment would be less severe no matter the size compared to a recurring rebellion. The Imperium is being forged to survive to the end of time, even one xenos rebellion per millennium would consume uncountable lives and materials. If one could pose a substantial argument to this, I am curious to hear it.” he finished grimly before finally taking his seat and yielding the floor.

Having let his brothers speak, Micholi finally rose to his feet and walked the floor to the center podium. Deciding to start with the respectable “Micholi Vakarian, 2nd Legion Night Watch, Primarch.” in relation to the rules Malcador had stated on the first day, the Primarch quickly decided to answer several points that had been raised.

“I feel I must take this moment to clarify a few terms that Primarch Augor believes this debate is about, if only so that they can be addressed with the right frame of mind. The first of course being the statement ‘any given Edicted Xenos populace shall rebel against the Imperium of Man is [i]inevitable[/i]’. This is simply an incomplete statement.” Aware that there were some who might object, he got to the point. “[b]All[/b] populations within the Imperium shall rebel against the Imperium at some stage. It is simply the price that we pay for not converting the vast majority of our population into unfeeling, mindless servitors. If anyone here has any plans for dealing with civil unrest and rebellions within the Imperium in general that we are not already employing that isn’t genocide and mass servitor conversion, please take the floor for we would all love to hear it. ”

“With that in mind, the same concerns about the loss of lives and materials in dealing with rebellions, uprisings and succession attempts stands true regardless of if those involved are xenos or human in nature. Logis Karoa’s data might have been focused on Xenos populations, but her findings confirm that humans in turn will strive for additional freedoms that the Imperium would deny them, such as freedom of religion… which is not related to the Edict of Tolerance but an issue that goes against the Imperial Truth.”

“I must also point out that the data related to those Xenos races that have been successfully edicted is also incomplete, due to the lack of the presence of human civilisations alongside. After all, the same conditions that seem to promote ideal candidates among xeno populations to come into the fold peacefully are also the ideal conditions to bring in human populations. Likewise, I do not believe we have ever encountered an advanced human civilisation that hasn’t attempted to maintain its independence with military resistance, even in the face of the Imperium’s overwhelming might and the possible consequences of losing after fighting a war, even if they do tend to be more… [i]forgiving[/i] then the consequences presented to a xenos population.”

“Finally, as much as it pains me to admit, I am afraid that one of Primarch Augor’s statements is nothing but an outright lie. While it is true that some xenos races were already under the governance of a Primarch before they joined the Imperium, to my knowledge the only one of us to truly do so was Primarch Eiohsa. While it is true that during my days on the Reserve prior to my discovery by the Emperor I was seen as a leader of a mixed population, this population was made up of slaves abducted from their homes by human slavers. The Tur were an up and coming space power with several colonies while the Lek were a one world species who were often raided by several neighboring powers. In fact, the Nerub weren’t even Edicted by a Primarch at all, instead Edicted by Planetary Governor Kist after the Imperium had set up colonists on the surface of their homeworld after driving off the Orks that had controlled the system prior.”

Pausing for just a moment to consider if he had covered everything mentioned prior, Micholi finally decided to go on the offensive as it were. “There is also something of a flaw in the data projections of the opposition in relation to civil unrest in Xenos populations. A simple fallacy really… the belief that the core data doesn’t change in relation to how a given Xenos population is treated. After all, part of the spirit of the Edict of Tolerance is that the longer a given species remains by the side of humanity, the more trust is developed and the less they seem like the ‘Other’ that are often feared and hated. After all, is there any Primarch here who can claim that they would rather have an unproven Imperial Army regiment from a recently compliant world over a regiment from a world that has served them well and proven themselves time and again for decades, if not centuries? The Tur and Lek have proudly and loyally served the Imperium in both civilian and military manner for almost two centuries; They have served the Imperium and the Emperor longer than most of the people in this room! Unless there are some witnesses in the High Lord areas I cannot see, at minimum there are only five people here who have been a part of the Imperium longer and that is including the Emperor himself! Even if you cannot bring yourselves to respect them as people, their service and loyalty should be respected all the same.”

His words given, Micholi respectfully offered Malcador and the Emperor a bow of his head as he left the middle podium for the next speaker.   

Augor Astren did not approach the central podium, but instead merely pressed the voxcaster switch on his own smaller side-podium to once more speak.

“You claimed part of what I stated was an outright lie.” Augor stated, his tone flat and clearly unamused. “Let it be noted that when I stated ‘the only Xenos polities to ever have been Edicted were already subsumed and governed by a Primarch,’ I was endeavoring to credit your personal history, though it also appears we have suffered a difference of opinion concerning which of our Edicted Xenos polities qualified as [i]nascent[/i] or otherwise. In recollection of what came of the First Open Discussion of this topic between us all, I would encourage my brothers and sisters to [i]think carefully[/i] prior to needlessly and baseless denigrating or accusing their fellow Primarchs of deceit under oath and before the Emperor of Mankind.” He then turned his empty, sightless gaze directly to Micholi. 

“Secondly, the cause of this debate is not serviced by equivocation and reticence. I would implore those who truthfully support the Edict of Tolerance to answer the inquiry directly. Finally, Primarch of the Second Legion, Micholi Vakarian,” Augor’s Expression then turn hard, his lips turning into nothing less than a sneer.

“I warned you, multiple times, over the course of the First Debate not to impinge upon the Will of the Emperor, our Father, Ruler of the Galaxy and All Mankind, He Who Stands Above All. I then approached you privately in the intervening days and warned you, explicitly, not to do so during the course of this session. Yet here you have, with the first breath you have drawn today, dared to Impinge upon the Will of the Emperor in our presence. It is your privilege to question the Will of the Emperor, but as I have said before, there is a thin line where such privilege turns to treason. If you respond to [i]nothing else[/i] that I have said here today, you would be best suited in listening to [i]this[/i] single thing: Continue your current course [i]at your peril.[/i]”

“When?” Micholi asked Augor in return, looking right at him. “When do you [i]believe[/i] I muttered anything that impinged on the Will of the Emperor? If you are referring to my statement that the Emperor is the oldest member and supporter of the Imperium, that isn’t impingement, that’s just a fact. The Imperium wouldn’t exist without the Emperor masterminding it, developing the legions or having the drive to unify Terra or the greater galaxy.” 

“I was not.” Augor replied, a dangerous and heavy divide separating the three words. “You are a Primarch. You know full and well what you said. It does not bear revisitation. You have been given your final warning. Let us proceed with our discourse.” His hand then retreated from the switch for his Voxcaster.

From the assembled observers, Ayushmatki rose to speak, nodding her head to those already upon the floor. “Ayushmatki Nanavna izva Kuznekhtinsk. Vice-Premier of the Grand Union of Saravata. Equerry of the Sixteenth Primarch, Eiohsa izva Bronakavh. Lady Rege-”

“Get on with it, mortal,” came the cutting voice of Usriel standing from his seat as Ayushmatki rattled off her titles.

Ayushmatki turned her attention to him after he spoke, her expression neutral. “If you wish to speak to those assembled, Primarch of the Nineteenth, you may do so after standing and declaring your name and titles upon the podium. Until such time, I retain the floor.” 

“Speak. Your. Piece,” the Nineteenth Primarch commanded.

Ayushmatki’s expression remained neutral, and she paid no heed to the words of Usriel. “...Lady Regent of the Crucibles of Light’s End.” a ghost of a smile crossed her lips before she continued. “Primarch of the Second Legion Micholi Vakrain, Primarch of the Twelfth Legion Augor Astren, if you permit. It is my understanding that the Edict, as it is written, is not wholly the work of the Emperor himself. While, certainly, it has been penned in his name and enforced as his will, it was done so - well before most of those present had even heard of the Imperium - at the behest of his Primarch. He, to the consternation of many to follow, penned this legislation adjacent and in addition to his Imperial Truth permitting the integration of those xenos bioforms deemed suitable for coexistence with humanity - but he certainly did not do so without the input of the second Primarch. Were such the case, he would not have done so only upon his encounter with him, yes? It is therefore justified for Primarch Micholi to defend the intents behind the writing of the document - but we have in our presence our Emperor himself, and I shall not make claims beyond that which can be inferred.”

Augor treated Ayushmatki with a genuine and polite smile before he pressed on his own Voxcaster switch to reply. “As you have clearly listened and taken note of my own objections, Lady Regent,” He began, his voice the essence of courtesy, “...and as you have made this inquiry while taking specific care not to Impinge upon the Will of the Emperor, I would be pleased to clarify this matter. As this matter is wholly adjacent to the body and direction of our discourse here today, I would ask that after I speak on this matter we return to our properly mandated discussion as directed by the Sigilite in his role as Convener.” 

Augor then cast his sightless expression towards the other Primarchs. “In acknowledgement that this session is and shall be witnessed by countless souls, I shall briefly summarize: The Emperor of All Mankind possesses several legal, formal, and ceremonial aspects. One of these aspects is his status and role as the Omnissiah, a figure of veneration and worship within the body of the Cult Mechanicum. This aspect is assigned and accounted for by the Treaty of Mars, which broadly and particularly describes and outlines its parameters. Within the Cult Mechanicum, the very written word, and therefore every document ever penned or signed by the Emperor, is considered sacred. His word is considered inviolate, sovereign, and absolute. Importantly, the matter of his Will, his Thoughts, his Intentions and his Desires are fully his own. They are not to be unduly ascribed or presumed. They are only and precisely what he declares they are, and beyond that his will is considered Ineffable and [i]not to be impinged upon.[/i]” 

The Primarch of the Twelfth Legion placed special emphasis on those words as he cast his empty orbitals directly to Micholi before carrying on. “I freely acknowledge that the Primarch of his Emperor’s second Astartes Legion, Micholi Vakarian, assisted the Emperor in writing and structuring the body of the Edict of Tolerance. As has been agreed upon by us previously in the first open discussion of this matter, and as should be [i]self-evidently true[/i],” 

Augor again directed his empty gaze to the Second Primarch. “...the Edict of Tolerance as a document would not exist and would not have been decreed into law had the Emperor of Mankind not desired it. Beyond what the Emperor himself has elected to impart and personally clarify, we cannot ascribe any degree of intention or direction upon the Edict of Tolerance. It may well be true that the Second Primarch, Micholi Vakarian, possessed a very specific and particularized will and intention in his efforts to assist the Emperor in drafting and composing the Edict of Tolerance - but at the same time, the Emperor was the one who had final say and ultimate authority not only upon its effect, but upon its very shape. The most that can be said of the Edict as pertains to the Emperor or [i]anybody else[/i], beyond simple factual statements that he was one of those who wrote it, is that the body of the Edict of Tolerance was [i]sufficient[/i] for the Emperor’s purposes, whatever they were and whatever they may be.” 

He then turned to face Ayushmatki once more. “Those outside the Cult Mechanicum, of course, possess the privilege and right to question and infer the Will of the Emperor, as all true and faithful Adepts of the Imperium loyal and adherent to the Imperial Truth are not bound by the terms of the Treaty of Mars. However - the Emperor of All Mankind remains himself. Beyond a point, to do either of these things exceeds privilege and verges into betrayal - and this applies not merely to Adepts, but to all within the Imperium - including the Primarchs. The Primarch of the Second Astartes Legion, Micholi Vakarian, for reasons I hesitate to assign at the risk of denigrating his person, has continued to needlessly and provocatively probe and test this boundary of privilege - and I, Augor Astren, Primarch of his Emperor’s Twelfth Astartes Legion, do not intend to permit him to continue to do so.”

He nodded once to Ayushmatki. “That is all.” He raised a bionic talon from his Voxcaster switch.

Ayushmatki nodded her head towards Augor, “Thank you, Primarch of the Twelfth, for your clarifications. I am sure all in attendance will act in due course of the law and its mandate.” She remained silent for a moment, her expression remaining inscrutable. “If it pleases those assembled, I would continue in response to mention of the integration of xenos and xenos polities by the Primarch of the Sixteenth.” She waited a moment for response from the assembled observers, expecting to continue. 

“The policies set in place by that of the Sixteenth Primarch, in the 777 worlds, are policies that cannot be accurately gauged by the Administratum. Your [i]policies[/i] could have results that had been completely fabricated by that damnable and Mechanicum-devoid zone. As such, you, human, are not a reliable source and utterly moot in comparison to the information brought to the attention of this assembly. Perhaps, if the Administration had more freedom to do their jobs within your pitiful region, it would be trusted far more,” Usriel snarled at Ayushmakti, his red gaze never leaving her as he spoke in an openly hostile manner. The Nineteenth Primarch allowed a moment of pause as he leaned forward to speak more, this time looking between the Primarchs, “That region, whose name I shall not utter, is devoid of proper oversight by the proper Imperial or Cult authorities. We cannot trust such words from this human and I will not regard any policy as having true oversight.”

“Primarch of the Nineteenth, if you wish to speak you ought to announce yourself before doing so and take your place at the podium in turn, as you have yet to do so.” Ayushmatki began to respond, before being cut off again.

Flicking his vox switch into the on position, Micholi firmly countered “Primarch Usriel, your words are out of line! While Eiohsa’s domain might not have much in the way of Mechanicum influence, Eiohsa is a Primarch and thus it’s under proper Imperial authority.”

“A Primarch is not infallible, Micholi, and denying proper investigation by both Administrators and Mechanicum personnel is nothing short of suspicious,” Usriel said, turning his head to Micholi, “I am on the side of the Edict of Tolerance, Micholi. However, I am not going to trust the sources of Primarch Eiohsa’s appointed representative or even Eiohsa herself as we have little evidence past the words of that region as to how effective such policies are.”

“Primarch of the Nineteenth, if I may.” Ayushmatki spoke, directing her attention back to Usriel.

“You may not,” Usriel said plainly.

“I believe you misunderstood my intentions. I have full authority to speak my piece before the council. My words were a figure of speech, Primarch Andredth, not a request. Now I shall continue. There seems to be misinformation regarding the nature of the Compliance and integration of the worlds of Primarch Eiohsa. There is a misconception that seems rampant among the ranks of those assembled her worlds have no presence of either the Adeptus Administrum or of the Mechanicum. This is objectively not so. What the 777 worlds have is [i]autonomy[/i] within the Imperium, as granted to the Primarch Eiohsa upon her reunification with our Emperor. Copies of a written declaration of such are maintained both upon Terra and Kayaamat, and I have with me the same material in digitized format should those present desire to confirm its contents for themselves. However, I will briefly summarize its contents, as they are not long. Each world has upon it the infrastructure of the Administratum, as well as Mechanicum. However, these worlds are primarily overseen by the internal ministries of the region, who then report directly to both these Administratum and Mechanicum bureaucracies. Though the Administratum and Mechanicum do not have commanding authority over the world, as such belongs to those given such power under our laws, they have at their disposal full accounting of all data assembled within. If such is required, I would be more than happy to provide documentation confirming the veracity of my claims and the identical contents of both our internal reports and those submitted to the Mechanicum.” 

She looked around the room, pausing only for a fraction of a second before continuing, not wishing to invite further interruption. “Now if I may address my [i]original[/i] point. It is true, there have been no formerly independent spacefaring xenos polities inducted into the Imperium aside from those already absorbed by my Primarch, however this does not negate that such [i]is[/i] possible. We speak of the inevitability of revolt or the armed resistance of a people against the Imperium as if they are singular justification for the annihilation of their existence - but any would do the same. It is the natural impulse, of those who share a human adjacent way of thinking, to resist annexation by a foreign power, especially one bent upon the subjugation of their people to a servile existence stripped of their former glory. The same is true of any human civilization in turn. However, it can be done. While many of the xenos within Eiohsa’s domain were integrated well before her arrival, there is one notable instance wherein they were not. The Khirkre, specifically, are a xenos people who held a… small civilization, no more than a dozen worlds in total. If needed, documentation on their morphology and behaviour can be provided. Regardless, they were initially hostile to her conquests, but submitted after the capture of eight worlds. They have not been subject to purge or made second class citizens upon their own homeworld - and in turn, they have shown remarkable integration with our broader society. They can be found upon Kayaamat in the tens of millions, and their resistance to radiation has proven valuable upon the shipyards of Light’s End. In turn, humanity upon their worlds has flourished and thrived, for what technology and art they have brought to their homeworld in particular has resulted in their homeworld becoming a prized possession like no other. 

“Properly sanctioned technology, I trust.” Augor commented. His expression was one of metered attentiveness.

“Naturally.” Replied Ayushmatki in turn. “Improved construction materials, building methods, agricultural and industrial machinery, and so on.”

“A full recitation is likely without the bounds of this council, Lady Regent.” Augor proffered a bionic hand and smiled again. “Please, proceed with the main body of your statement.”

“Of course, Primarch of the Twelfth. Should you wish it, a full documentation of such will be made available upon your request after this meeting has adjourned.” She nodded to him, before continuing. “To summarize briefly - this people, though initially hostile, combative, and dubiously compatible with human societies, has become nothing less than a cherished and incredibly valuable asset to all. Their contributions to engineering and the arts alike stand proud amongst all - and none of this could have been achieved had they been forced into servitude, stripped of not only their pride but their identities. Surely, many other species met their ends at our hands, and tragically or not, most such species will be unsuitable candidates due to extreme divergence from acceptable parameters. However, within those that do meet such parameters, they represent an untapped resource as valuable as any of humanity. Moral standings aside, to destroy a people whose minds could further expand the Imperium’s dominance in all fields is a supremely wasteful endeavor. We speak of the expenditure of resources to curtail rebellion - but we do not speak of the expenditure of resources to oppress and destroy the potential of peoples who could elevate us further.” She nodded to Augor and to the other Primarchs. “I yield the floor.”

Next, the glowing form of the Seventh Primarch stood, moving to take the floor. “I am Nimue Arcadia, Primarch of the Seventh Legion as you all well know. The Enchantress of Engraila”. She, upon announcing herself, held a tongue for a moment, gazing over the assembly, before resting her eyes on the representative of Sixteenth Primarch. 

“You. Iron Daughter girl. You speak faithfully for your Primarch, correct? Her words are your words? Her thoughts are yours?”

“I cannot truthfully claim that her thoughts are my own, however I speak with her authority and with her full confidence.” Ayushmatki said in reply, keeping her voice even. “She will stand by me.” 

Nimue nodded then, pleasantly. It was acceptable. 

“Does your primarch truly believe that Xenos, those of whom have been edicted at least, are deserving of equality?”

Ayushmatki looked at Nimue with an almost unreadable expression, but one close by might have noticed an undercurrent of distaste in her eyes as she looked upon the seventh Primarch. “It is so. In this we are of one mind.”

“And so, deserving of this equality - Your Primarch believes that there is an inherent right for Xenos to be treated as humans would? Equally? So to live in coexistence with man?” Nimue’s voice was soft, pleasant even. It was devoid of the usual haughtiness expected of her.

“Should they fall within the parameters set forth within the evidence I have provided, that is correct.” Ayushmatki said in turn, “If it pleases you, Primarch of the Seventh, I can explain why at your leisure.”

“It is of no need, Child of the Sixteenth. I believe I understand. I have one last question for you. With these answers in mind, does your mistress, Primarch of the Sixteenth, apply these principles in her compliances of xenos with the Edict of Tolerance?”

“This is not something I can answer, Primarch of the Seventh.” came the reply, “The Sixteenth Legion is one not frequently deployed to such theaters. We were explicitly designed, as told to me by Eiohsa, to fight in high casualty combat situations. As such, we have never encountered a species that could have been grounds for Ediction.”

“Then what of her realm, her...” Nimue thought for some time, not particularly bothering to remember the name - “Sarvata?”

“It is Saravata, if you permit my correction.” Ayushmatki said, “Most of the species within Saravata had been integrated into human societies before the arrival of Eiohsa. Admittedly, many of these societies were conquered by her and had not before been unified within the region, but in most regards, including upon her and my own homeworld of Kayaamat, before her arrival they were universally treated as second class citizenry at best, or chattel slaves at worse.”

“And after her arrival, they are now equal, in Saravata?”

“That is correct. She instituted wide ranging, sweeping reforms governing economic policy as well as the elimination of social caste. This coming after her rebellion against its rulers and subsequent conquest of the world.” 

“And so, returning to my original point, concerning the Edict of Tolerance - your Primarch, in her conquests of Saravata, made her xenos and human subjects equal?”

“This is correct. Yes.” Said Ayushmatki, “She abolished all forms of social hierarchy outside of the ranks of governmental service. In doing so, she created a system wherein the standard human, abhuman, and xenos populations live with equal rights and living conditions.”

“Thank you for your answers, Daughter of Iron”. Nimue said politely, very happy with the answers she was given. Nimue then turned, facing her hated ‘brother’ directly.
“Primarch of the Second Legion, Micholi Vakrain…” Nimue’s voice was polite and soft, as before. But the edge of intense dislike could not be hidden, and so merely came off as sly. 

“Do you, Primarch of the Second Legion, truly believe that Xenos, those of whom have been edicted at least, are deserving of equality?”

Micholi’s eye narrowed slightly, clearly aware that his sister was up to something but not really in a position to refuse the question as he asked “Primarch of the Seventh, I grew up on a world where everyone, be they human, abhuman, xenos or mutant were all equally viewed as nothing by chattel to be hunted down for sport, training purposes or because the numbers to be sacrificed to the Eldar slavers were low. Of course I believe they deserve equality.”

“And so, deserving of this equality - do you, Primarch, believe that there is an inherent right for Xenos to be treated as humans would? Equally? So to live in coexistence with man?” Nimue repeated her question asked to the Daughter of Iron, now to the Primarch of the Second Legion.

“In time. Much like how a newly introduced human population needs time to adjust and to be brought up to speed on Imperial laws, the introduction of the Imperial Truth, et cetera. But I do believe that in the end equality can be achieved.” There was a brief pause before Micholi asked “I’m guessing this is the part where you declare I’m insane and why my position is completely wrong, Nimue?”

“Something like that, dear brother”. She smiled.

Remaining silent, Ayushmatki raised an eyebrow, folding her arms as she adjusted herself in her seat.

“Still, this line of questioning must be continued. Are xenos and humans treated as equal citizens within the worlds you govern? And if they are not, do you intend for them to be so - as you intend for the entirety of the Imperium to one day be, in some distant future?”

“They are treated well, in the sense that having been on the opposite end of the ‘slave, master’ relationship then yourself, dear Nimue, I find the practices of slavery abhorant.” He rolled his eyes as he added “Yes, I am aware of the fact that you’ve never owned slaves Nimue. But being worshipped as a goddess on your own planet by your people does mean that you have never been on the downtrodden side of a power imbalance.” 

“It is only fitting that a Primarch be born to rule. It is our right, and destiny. We were not made to be ‘downtrodden’, we were made to be exemplars of the human race that all others may look up to and follow, dear Brother. You focus too greatly on the weak, on resentment - and not enough of inspiration, of leadership. I serve my people just as much as you do yours”. Nimue responded to her Brother’s petty sidetracking. She knew the responsibility of nobility.

“If we don’t pay attention to the weak, dear Sister… who will?” Micholi countered softly.

“Answer the question, Micholi,” the rumbling of Sarghaul’s voice clove in, “Do you desire a future where human and xeno are as one across the galaxy?”

“Sarghaul, to quote the representative of Eiohsa, if you wish to speak you really should announce yourself properly. After all, it’s Nimue’s turn to speak.” Micholi teased the Primarch of the Lurkers professionally, before turning back to Nimue. “To answer your question, I would love to create a universe where humans and xenos can co-exist peacefully with each other as equally and respectfully as is possible in our reality. I believe we have already made good steps towards this goal by removing the mindless and monstrous from the galaxy, but there are more steps that need to be taken.”

“I am certain. Thank you, Primarch Micholi of the Second Legion”. Her line of questioning for the Primarch and Equerry were completed, she began the next phase of her speech.

“Honoured Council, Primarchs. Emperor of the Imperium of [b][i]Man[/i][/b]” Nimue emphasized the last word strongly. “I would like to remind all those in attendance of the [url=https://warhammer40k.fandom.com/wiki/Imperial_Truth]Imperial Truth[/url], as decreed by our Emperor and father of all Humanity, from which forms the entire basis of the Imperium of Man and the Great Crusade persists”.

“The Imperial Truth decrees that the irrational, the superstitious and faith in those beyond to be mere terrors of the Old Night, to be discarded as ignorance. It calls for a rational and secular order to replace it. There would be no souls, no gods or sorcery. There would only be Man”. Nimue explained to those all present, all knowing what the Imperial Truth was.

“It seems however, that those present seem to always forget the second half of Our Emperor’s decree, the other, quite significant, element of the Imperial Truth… my siblings” Nimue said, glaring at Micholi.

“The Imperial Truth decrees that Man, and man alone, shall rightfully rule the galaxy. And the reason? Mankind is pure. Man’s physical form is pure, where the Xenos is not. It decrees that all other intelligent forms of life have tried - and failed, to rule a galaxy-spanning civilization, because of their lack of purity, their lack of human will.’

“The Imperial Truth itself acknowledges the importance of this! That it was mankinds ‘time in the sun!’, that it was more deserving of its rule than any other species. It is the predominant species of the Galaxy, and no other. It’s superiority will be made self-evident. The Imperial Truth undeniably states the superiority of the human race.” Nimue then remembered Micholi’s attempt at diversion.

“The Imperial Truth states that man is strong, It is, like the Primarchs, as a whole destined for greatness. It is not meant to be downtrodden, it needs not to beg and plead and compromise with the weak, and the failed, and the impure”. 

“My Emperor”. Nimue said, turning towards the Emperor of Mankind, sitting silently in attendance. “Emperor, father, can you not see the absurdity?” Her sight returning to The Emperor, and away from Micholi.

“The Imperial Truth cannot possibly survive the Edict of Tolerance. Its very co-designer, by his very own admittance, intends to subvert it! The Primarch of the Sixteenth already flagrantly does so, her precious empire ignoring the Imperial Truth at every turn! They say that the Imperium cannot fall because its leadership is immortal, but what if the subverters are those very same immortals?”

“Why?” Nimue asked, far more emotionally than even she believed she would say. Rhetoric and fake passion was being distorted by real anger, that her siblings could willfully ignore what would see herself severely punished or censored. “Why, Emperor? Why can the Imperial Truth be so openly ignored by these two? What makes them so special, that your decrees on all others are mere ‘suggestions’ for them?

“The Primarchs Micholi and Eiohsa are traitors to the Imperium of Man!” Nimue finished.

Micholi slowly raised to his feet. Having given Nimue the floor for so long, he calmly stepped onto it and joined her rather than speak from his seat with the vox. As walked towards the Primarch of the Seventh, it was hard to say what he was thinking or feeling… but he finally stopped two meters away from her. 

“Others have dominated the universe before humanity. Their times came and went with the ebb and flow of time. Before the Long Night, humanity had a golden age of its own, standing tall and proud in the stars… before the many terrors of the Age of Strife brought it down. Yet… humanity managed to pull itself out of the ashes and rubble of the old in order to reclaim its place in the stars. Do you want to hear the lesson I learned from the Age of Strife, dear sister?” 

Nimue stared in disbelief as The Emperor refused to say or do anything. Allowing Micholi to speak for him. “Why are you silent?” She asked The Emperor again, incredulous. “Why will you not defend your own decrees from such obvious subversion?” She could not understand. Why would he create such absolute principles, and then say absolutely nothing in their defence? Not yes, or no. It was either silence or [i]‘fight it out amongst yourselves’[/i]. 

Since Nimue seemed to be more focused on the silence of the Emperor… and to be fair, Micholi looked towards him to out of interest as well, but since neither seemed to be speaking he decided to make his point. “The humanity of the Dark Age of Technology didn’t fall due to weakness Nimue. In fact, it was rather powerful. It fell because it was cut off from itself. It’s planets divided, unable to travel or talk to ea-”

“Shut up, Micholi. I am not arguing the tenets of the Imperial Truth with you. You are not its creator. Its decrees only come from him.” Nimue pointed to The Emperor, still silent in attendance of The Council of Nikaea.

“Very well then. I can agree with you that now, if ever, the Emperor should make his opinion heard.” Micholi agreed, turning to look at their lord and liege.

Looking between Nimue and Micholi as they both turned to face the Emperor, and registering as they invoked for him to speak for the third time, Augor could not help but turn his empty gaze to the Emperor of All Mankind. The one figure the Twelfth Primarch had not been able to look at - almost as if out of fear, or shame. But now, as the attention of the entire Council Chamber began to shift and heave away from the Primarchs and their debate and towards the back wall where the Emperor was enthroned resplendent, he could not help but look up to him.

[sub]”...Omnissiah…”[/sub] He uttered in a hoarse whisper. He took to one knee on the spot, clasping a hand over his breast in the semblance of the cog.

[sub]”...Deliver us…”[/sub]

The Council was consumed by silence for the space of a heartbeat, but before it could drag on Prometheus rose speaking calmly and quietly into the silence. “Primarch of the Vth, Prometheus.”

His gaze locked onto Micholi and Nimue in turn “Both of you sit down and yield the floor to useful debate. Our father is not here to give his opinion, he is here to hear ours and forge his own. You embarrass yourselves and your siblings acting this way.” his focus remained on Micholi and Nimue fully prepared to accept their wrath.

“An Emperor should rule his Imperium, not sit idle”. Nimue glared at Prometheus, The Emperor still silent. If he was even awake, though his eyes were open, Nimue could not even tell.

Micholi turned to look at Prometheus… before a sigh escaped him. “Nimue and myself clearly have a difference of opinion on how the Imperial Truth should be applied, Prometheus. I believe that as the rulers and caretakers of the universe that Humanity, in our position of strength, has the right to decide to rule alongside those that it deems worthy, while Nimue disagrees in that humanity should stand alone. I believe requesting of the Emperor of which vision of the Imperium’s future he would prefer to see come to pass is not only relevant, but the very core of this debate in the first place. After all, our opinions do not matter in the end… only his does.”

Prometheus’ tone became an edge harder, but still at the same volume “Neither of you have heard my words, now you look as petulant children before the Lords of Terra, our Father and the Imperium itself. Micholi… I have been sitting in this room like everyone else. I see the bones of your disagreement, but as I said, The Emperor is here to absorb information and opinion to decide the best course of action. Besides, if your opinion does not matter why do you bother to speak? Or even attend? As I said, sit down and yield the floor before you make a greater fool of yourself.”

“Prometheus speaks wisdom, my children,” the Emperor announced, not even standing, yet his quiet voice burrowing into the minds of those present as though he were at their ear. “It is the greater picture I am concerned with, for both the Imperium and its many facets. I alone cannot challenge every individual foe of every army humanity may face - that is why the Imperial Army exists. I alone cannot defeat each leader and conqueror who might rise ten thousand fold across the galaxy’s breadth at any given moment - that is why the Legiones Astartes exist. And I alone cannot lead these forces and meet their many and varied needs across the full extent of our Imperium - that is why the High Lords exist, and why you my Primarchs were created.”

“If I did not wish for your opinion, this Council would never have been drawn. As it is, I know each and every person’s value, from the lowest menial to the highest marshal, and indeed to all in this room as I speak.” He paused as if considering this matter in brief. ‘Rest assured, you are all being heard, and you shall all be accounted for equitably when the time comes to offer my due.’

[i]Lie.[/i] Thought Nimue.

A small part of Micholi was actually quietly amused by the very idea of someone believing he could still feel shame when he had long been the subject of jokes and hate from his siblings. But it didn’t appear on his face. Instead he politely bowed his head to Prometheus as he muttered “You are right, brother.” and then respectfully bowed his head to the Emperor before he turned to look at Nimue. 

For the first time in… well, he suspected ever, he offered the sister that he was often at odds with an empathic gaze. “I believe we will have much to discuss between each other Nimue… but it will have to wait. The debate, after all, rages on and personal is not the same as important.” With that said, he turned to go and reclaim his seat in silence. 

“So be it,” Nimue said, huffing, and returned to her seat.

Prometheus bowed deeply to the Emperor in thanks for his intervention and in part for his agreement. Prometheus’ voice returned to a soft and calm tone “Now, all this being said.. My dear sister Nimue does raise an important point. A portion of the Imperial Truth, the direct word of the Emperor indeed says these things. Both of these laws are contradictory, I for one heed the Imperial Truth over that of the Edict, if for no other reason than the Truth was written by the Emperor and the Edict wrought by Micholi.” Micholi the fool he seemed to say. Micholi the Primarch shamed for his foolishness. “However I would hear how these two concepts are compatible or how they are opposed.” As Prometheus returned to his seat he did pause near Micholi speaking loudly enough for all to hear. “And I would hear it from those who do not think me an inbecile.” He calmly continued and resumed his seat, implicitly granting the floor to all but Micholi.

“Brother.” Augor spoke after a heavy pause had descended across the chamber. With everyone turning to look at the Twelfth Primarch, his knelt posture and clasped hand spoke volumes - though the Primarch hastily rose and corrected his stance. “If the Omniss-” His voice halted, and he started over. “...As the Emperor has declined to speak on this matter, we can only be left with the conclusion that he permitted it to come to fruition for some purpose, even knowing that it contradicts the Imperial Truth. This is a certainty that his truest and most faithful servants within the Mechanicum have lived with since the reunification of the Second Primarch. Understand I do not seek to make light of your call or these deliberations, but to suggest that perhaps how the Imperial Truth and the Edict of Tolerance are meant to align, if at all, is not for us to know. Or perhaps we have been summoned here to this very Council in order to effectuate the final design of the Emperor as to this matter. Perhaps the Emperor has already made his decision, and this is all but a test of our resolve, our characters.” He made a sweeping gesture that encompassed all of the Primarchs present.

“If I may, I would speak once more.” Said Ayushmatki, rising from her seated position. “If it is so that we are assembled here to debate the Edict of Tolerance and its relationship with the Imperial Truth, let it be so, and let us be to the point. It is my position, and the position of my Primarch that, if the Imperial Truth is truly based upon science, reason, logic, and the abolition of blind dogma - in the name of an enlightened future, then tenets of it must be likewise open to examination under such principles. The annihilation, or relegation to a position of chattel, of nonhuman species is certainly a defining tenet of the Truth. But why?” She looked around the room, silent for a moment. “If the Imperial Truth is not dogma, then this tenet of it must be open to examination and critique. Certainly, humanity will rule the stars - it is fair to say that our dominion over them is now almost total, in fact. However - that we must do it alone, destroying all else that is not like us - is such necessary?” She paused again, nodding to the Emperor, then to the rest of the room. “If we are to abandon dogma and embrace learning, then we must question all. And so it is that I question this. To those of you who oppose the Edict upon the grounds of the Imperial Truth’s assertion that the xeno is to be eradicated, [i]why[/i]? For the mere reason that it is decreed as such? If so, it is little better than old religions of past years.”

The Council chamber suddenly boomed with acrimonious laughter. The Primarch of the Twelfth Legion howled with manic fervor, tears streaming from his hollowed eyes. Suppressing the outburst but still chuckling faintly, he then activated his podium’s voxcaster and spoke. “Behold and see my very speculations confirmed.” He chortled. “Not but mere moments after reminding the whole of this attending body of the purpose of this Council, another one amongst our number has turned whole to assail and question the Imperial Truth!” He let loose another gout of manic laughter, raising his head to the ceiling - and then abruptly turning his dead gaze to Ayushmatki, his expression wrought over with rancor. “It is very clear indeed. This surely must be a test of our resolve. Having received direction straight from the Sigillite as to the purpose for which this Council has been convened - to discuss either the retainment or the abolition of the Edict of Tolerance - those of us amongst our number, prey to the foibles of our own Human frailties and wracked with the most recreant and craven of tendencies - turn away from his very Will and instead cast doubt upon the very core and heart of not only the Imperium of Man, but the ethos of the Emperor himself.” He shook his head.

“You, [i]Equerry[/i], are out of line - and you will not live to see the Sun in Splendor ever again.” The threat flew through the air like a loosed arrow, visibly shocking and taking aback many of those in sitting in the galleries and observing.

“Augor, we’re not going to get anywhere with this discussion if every time we question the necessity of certain parts of the Imperial Truth you have to bark about your faith that none of the rest of us share, nor are allowed to be a part of. If anything, the fact that the Emperor was willing to make an exception to the Imperial Truth’s stance on religion in order to join forces with Mars at the start of the Crusade is grounds enough that he can change his mind on matters.” Micholi finally answered over his vox in a tired tone of voice.”Yes, the Mechanicum view is valid, but it is hard to have a scientific discussion when the documents you are discussing are considered sacred beyond reproach.” 

“Your traitor tongue will soon join your eye-” Augor began.

“Augor,” Usriel barked, raising himself to discussion before his gaze turned to Micholi, “The Mechanicum may have been an exception to Imperial Truth at the time, however, the Mechanicum is [i]human[/i]. Micholi, even you are considered blessed by the priests despite you now chastising them for their faith, not only in the Emperor, but also with the very sciences that keep a great many of the machines that all of our Legions use. Sciences that they continue to safeguard. Sciences that are endorsed by the Imperial Truth itself.” The Nineteenth Primarch continued after a brief moment of pause, “The Mechanicum’s basis is founded upon securing the knowledge of the Machine God, science. If you wish to plead for scientific discussion then the Mechanicum is one most knowledgeable in such things.”

“Usriel… you would defend this? This obvious treason, this breach of the Imperial Truth?” Nimue asked. “It so seems… To many here, or at least the representative of the Sixteenth, the Imperial Truth is negotiable. A truth that can be remade is no truth”. Nimue was laughing inside, laughing. The madness, the injustice. She would be condemned by those for her faith, for her love for her people’s faith in her - and yet here, a mere Equerry could spout treason directly to The Emperor without even censor.

“I defend the Imperium and the Mechanicum. As such,” Usriel stated in a cold tone, looking to Ayushmakti once more, “I would gladly deliver punishment for questioning His will, His Truth. However, she is not bound by the tenants of the Mechanicum, she is no priest. As such, she may speak her mind, no matter how much I desire to end her where she stands.”

“She is bound by the Imperial Truth! By her allegiance to the Imperium of Man and its laws!” Nimue shouted “Mechanicum or not!”

“She is bound by the Truth, yes. But tell me, Nimue, where in the Truth does it say that it cannot be questioned,” Usriel responded.

“By its enforcement! Those who break with the Imperial Truth are cast down into darkness, the Imperial Truth says this!”

“And has she yet broken the Truth?” the Nineteenth asked.

“Yes! Yes she has! She has already admitted to it! Did you not listen to her testimony earlier?!” The Seventh replied, enraged.

“No,” Usriel admitted, “However, if you cling to this with such zealotry then you have played into her point, Nimue. You wish for me to strike down a member of another Legion for merely speaking in a debate, one which would have come to the Imperial Truth being brought up. I despise to admit, it is she from the 777 worlds who would have the best objective view where I cannot.”

“You…. fool. It is not about what she has said! It is the greater meaning of its content. Eiohsa’s pet kingdom actively disregards the Imperial Truth, an astartes of her Legion actively calls for the abolishment of the superiority of humanity within the Imperial Truth, and all you do is protect her right to… ‘debate’? Could you imagine, if the roles were different? If this matter was concerning myself? No one would dare defend me”. The last statement by Nimue was, contrasting her shouting - much quieter. Resigned, sad even. She was witnessing the, in her view, injustice of the Imperial Truth, first hand.

The High Lords and other human representatives, for a time, were in quiet quarrel with one another over how, or indeed, whether, to interfere here. The tapping of Malcador’s gavel quieted the room outright, though.

“I see we have not, after all, progressed past our prior personal concerns,“ he murmured. “I believe an hour’s recess is in order; and when we return, it may be pertinent to select a fresh topic other than the Edict for a time.“ One more tap of the gavel officially ended the convening for now, but it was clear by his expression that he had yet to end his duty. “Augor, Nimue, may I speak with you in private?“ Even phrased as a question, it was clear this was an order of sorts. After a moment, he added “Usriel, if you might also join us, please.”

[hr]
[b][...End Log.][/b]
[b][...Terminating.][/b]
[b][Imperial Thought for the Day: Suffer not the traitor amongst thy own. Tend to your own as to a garden, and cull that which is poison.][/b]