Drawing Plans
“A woman?!” Fulgrim cackled. “The Emperor returns to the mortal realm, and He chooses the form of a woman?!” Magnus watched in silence as his brother laughed. The Emperor’s return was a serious topic, no matter what form He took, and to see his fellow Primarch brush it off so easily...
Then again, Fulgrim has not always been the most sound of mind.
“I take it you find something quite amusing, Brother?” Magnus turned slightly as Lorgar stepped from the shadows, flanked by two Chaos Lords he assumed were the Word Bearers’ more senior officers.
“Oh, most definitely, Lorgar,” the Daemon Primarch said, slithering towards the new arrival. “The Emperor has finally revealed himself, and as a woman of all things. And here I thought your warnings of a great struggle actually meant something.” Fulgrim chuckled again, but mirth turned to shock as Lorgar delivered a quick backhand to his brother’s face. Even Magnus was surprised, watching with trepidation as the two others faced off against one another.
“You... dare to strike me?” Fulgrim hissed.
“Is it better than underestimating the power of the Emperor, Brother.” Lorgar retorted, brushing past Fulgrim as he approached Magnus. Fulgrim seethed behind the other Primarch, but made no motion to attack... yet. “And you, Magnus; you seem fairly composed for this turn of events.”
“When you told me that the Emperor would be returning, I prepared as best as I could.” Magnus said. “It matters not if the Emperor is male or female; all that matters is that He stands prepared to strike against the galaxy.”
“And that is where we shall lay our trap, dear brothers.” Lorgar stepped away for a moment, raising his hand towards the sky. There was a pause before a shimmering image of the galaxy spread before them, thousands of stars and planets bringing light once more to a dead world. “The Emperor is still on Terra, and will remain there for some time as she gathers her power.”
“And would you have us wait again, like cowards?” Fulgrim asked, some of his composure having returned. “I am still waiting for this grand demonstration of your power, Lorgar, and I cannot say my patience has grown since last we spoke.”
“It is being arranged, as we speak.” Lorgar twisted his hand, drawing the map towards Galactic South. “The Great Devourer advances from the east and south; already my agents have arranged so that the Hive Fleets will strike against the Sons of Nocturne.”
“Even with subtle guidance,” Magnus said. “It will take some time for the Hive Fleets to move into a suitable attacking position. The Emperor and her lapdogs could be well prepared before the Tyranids attack.”
“Oh, I have taken that possibility into mind, brother.” Lorgar turned to another section of the map. “Greenskins make for such a wonderful pawn, do they not?” Magnus approached the section of the map Lorgar had indicated. A simple tool, true, but though they severely lacked in many regards the Loyalists were well adept at battling and killing Greenskins; it would not take the Emperor long to clear out an Ork empire, especially if she had Corax at her side.
Corax...
“Clever, brother,” Magnus said after a moment. “Draw the Emperor and Corax closer to the Tyranids by threatening both the Salamanders and the Raven Guard’s homeworlds. At least now we know where her first strikes shall be.”
“Too simplistic,” Fulgrim muttered. “What is your true plan, Lorgar?”
“The Tyranids, my dear Fulgrim, will show you that what I speak is the truth.” Lorgar dismissed the illusion before turning towards his fellows. “But think, now; with the Hive Mind dealt with, will we not be free to take the galaxy for ourselves? Fulgrim, you could send your forces straight to Macragge and savage Guilliman’s bastards before they could realize who they faced. And Magnus,” Lorgar turned back. “Your next campaign against Fenris could have myself, Mortarion, Angron, and Perturabo assisting, to ensure that the Wolves of Fenris are finally put down.”
“If you mean to have the Emperor kill the Hive Mind, then perhaps I might be more convinced.” Magnus said.
“In due time brother.” Lorgar turned again, so he could face both of his brothers. “There is more that I must do to ensure that the Emperor arrives exactly when and where we need her to be; as master of the Thousand Sons, surely you must be familiar with such matters.” Magnus said nothing. Though he was not as expressive in his anger as Fulgrim or Angron, Lorgar still had a fine line to tread before he went too far.
“Of course, we would have to deal with more of your schemes.” Fulgrim moved to leave. “Perhaps I might lure Angron back to his senses; it appears to be something I am better suited for than you two.” Magnus watched as Fulgrim departed. Amusing as it would be to watch the two Primarchs battle, there were more important matters to deal with.
Keeping an eye on the Emperor, for one, would be troublesome enough.
“A moment, Magnus,” Lorgar said as Magnus prepared to return to his world. “I know that I have not been forthcoming in what is awaiting us, but you must understand that this is a most... delicate operation.”
“I would leave delicacies to Fulgrim,” Magnus looked to Lorgar. “He is the one you should be trying to convince, not me.”
“Forget about Fulgrim for a moment; he can be convinced by mere parlor tricks and smooth words. How else did he find himself trapped by a mere daemon?” Lorgar smirked. “No, here I have come to ask you about something more... obscure, shall we say.” Magnus raised his eyebrow at this, watching in silence as the shadows seemed to twist around Lorgar.
“Do you know the true nature of the Warp, brother?”
...
“Most Gracious and Holy Empress, Protector of Mankind and Guardian of Terra,” Naomi and her Sisters chanted, hands clasped as they kneeled before the small altar in their room. “We thank You, our most Gracious and Holy Lady, for Your continued guidance as we stand against those that would see our great works undone.”
“We thank you for health in body and mind,” Rebecca said. “Though it is not by our strength alone that we stand.”
“It is by Your Will, Your Desire, that we hold against the night.” said Veronica.
“We ask You now, to guide us as we embark upon the greatest mission that any of us shall face in our lifetimes,” Ruth added.
“Let us seek out and destroy those who would threaten Your Student, Lady Tara,” Judith said. “Though we ourselves may perish, let them burn in the fires of Your Wrath, that they may never rise again to threaten her or any of Mankind.”
“Answer us now, O Empress, that we may receive your guidance.” Naomi finished, the Sisters reaching to the Rosarii that hung around their necks. “There is only the Empress.”
“And She is our Shield and Protector.” The other four finished, rising after a brief moment of silence. Twilight had watched the whole prayer session, observing every word and motion that the Sisters had performed during the ritual. Maybe someday she would feel comfortable enough to join them, but that day seemed a ways off.
“Well, I hope that gave you a glimpse into how the Order of Our Martyred Lady conducts prayer sessions.” Sister Naomi said as she moved to retrieve her weapons from where they rested.
“Oh, most definitely,” Twilight replied. “Though... since the Empress has returned, couldn’t you just ask her directly for a blessing?”
“I tried that once,” Judith said. “The Custodes got mad at me, I think... It’s hard to tell behind those masks.”
“It would be... improper for us to intrude in such a matter, Lady Tara.” Sister Naomi continued. “She has Her duties and the Imperium to watch over; we are but humble Sisters doing whatever we can to ensure there is still an Imperium to protect.”
“She really isn’t that hard to talk to.” Twilight countered. “I’ve been her student for most of my life; she really does like to talk to people and do what she can to help them.”
“But you are Her student; we are not. Your continued exposure to Her presence may have clouded some of your judgement.” there was a pause before Naomi backtracked. “... No offense, Lady Tara.”
“None taken.” Twilight rose, moving towards the door as the Sisters formed up alongside her. “Well, I can always talk with her. Perhaps she’ll listen to me and give you all a private audience.” All of the Sisters brightened at this idea; even Naomi lost some of her stern demeanor at the thought. The moment was fleeting, though, the Sisters returning to formation as they followed Twilight out into the hall.
The Palace seemed more lively since Celestia’s declaration of a new Crusade; those that worked to keep the palace running were more energetic in their actions, more pilgrims had arrived to witness the Empress’ triumph, even the Custodes were more alert to their surroundings if that was at all possible. Twilight still kept her focus forward; with the important work she and the others would be doing, she needed to make sure she was not too distracted.
“You’re late.” Twilight gave a small yelp as Corax stepped from the shadows of a nearby hallway, the Primarch towering over her as he approached.
“Why do you always do that?” Twilight snapped, trying to regain some of her previous composure.
“Force of habit, I suppose.” Corax replied. Twilight said nothing more as she continued towards the war room, Corax at her side while the Sisters backed up to give the Primarch more room. “Just as well, I am certain the Empress would be quite worried if her favored student were not properly taken care of.”
“Oh, but the Sisters have watched over me just fine,” Twilight replied, looking back to Naomi and her squad. Veronica and Judith gave Twilight quick smiles, smiles that vanished as Corax cast a glance at them. “I’m sure they can protect me from anything really dangerous.”
“Let us hope, for your sake, that your confidence is not misplaced.” There was a pause before Corax continued. “What do you know of war, Tara?” Twilight fell silent as she thought of the best way to answer Corax. The Changeling attack was perhaps the closest she had been to a real war, but what was that compared to the fifteen thousand years of experience that Corax had?
“Um...?” Twilight started. “I... I suppose I know a little.” Corax stopped walking, turning slightly so he faced Twilight.
“Look into my eyes, Tara.” Twilight hesitated, but complied, even if she could feel her eyes straining as she met Corax’s gaze. “... You are a kind woman, Tara; you are slow to anger, and you understand the hearts and minds of those you reach out to. But... you have lived a sheltered life, tucked away among books and tales; venturing this far is more than you have ever done before, but you are uncertain that you know the way.” Twilight quivered, finally breaking away from Corax’s sight.
“It... it isn’t really all like that, is it?” she whimpered.
“It is your life; you know more about it than I do.” Corax replied. “I do not wish to frighten you, Tara, but I also do not wish to see you broken by all that might come... I have seen too many good people broken into nothingness, and I do not wish for you to be among them.” Corax continued on, though Twilight was hesitant to follow after him. She flinched slightly as she felt a hand on her shoulder.
“We are here to protect you, Lady Tara,” Sister Naomi said, giving Twilight a small smile underneath her helmet. “As you helped me in my darkest hour, so I shall be there to help you.”
“... thank you.” Twilight said, giving Naomi a smile in return before she turned to hurry after Corax. Ahead, the hallway ended in a darkened room, with only a few figures drifting about an illuminated table. Twilight, Corax, and the Sisters filed in, Twilight stopping only to allow her eyes to adjust to the change in light as the doors were closed behind her.
The table was a massive map of the galaxy, small images depicting fleets and army groups flickering across the map. She could not get a perfect view of the image, but perhaps Celestia could see from where she was seated.
Of course she could. She was the Empress.
“I am glad you could join us, Tara,” Celestia said, rising in her seat slightly. “Now, we can begin planning the Second Crusade.”
“Empress,” one man stepped forward, an official looking fellow Twilight guessed was a general of some sort. “Your call has been answered by several regiments, numbering close to two million Guardsmen and perhaps half their number in tanks, artillery platforms, and aircraft.”
“And the Astartes?”
“The Phalanx is at your disposal, my Empress,” the Imperial Fist Marine said. “My brothers are scattered about the galaxy, but we have four hundred Marines ready for combat at your command.”
“And the Minotaurs will provide our battle fleet for your use as well.” another Space Marine said, though Twilight noted he seemed more grumpy than the other.
“Fourteen hundred Astartes and two million Guardsmen...” Celestia mused. “It is a start, I suppose. What of the fleet?”
“Battlefleet Solar has some ships that can be spared for the Crusade, Empress,” yet another man said. “Though even with the Mechanicum’s shipyards working at full capacity it will be some time before we can replace any ships that might be lost.”
“Then we shall choose our initial targets carefully.” Celestia turned her attention towards the map. “Tell me, Corax; where would you have us strike first?” there was a pause, Twilight watching as Corax leaned forward to examine the map. His gaze danced across the images, tracking fleets and armies as they shifted positions.
“The Eye of Terror, perhaps, could be a tempting target,” he said. “Chaos has receded, and there is always the possibility of finding those who may be lost but uncorrupted. The resources of Cadia as well could be useful if we were to incorporate it into our forces sooner rather than later.”
“A fair choice.”
“But our force is small, untested; we will need a more ready target to prove that we can carry this campaign to a full Crusade of Liberation.” Corax turned his head slightly. “The Greenskin hordes of the south should be effective in tempering our men in battle.”
“Also fair.” Celestia leaned back. “And it would play well to my future plans; As I plan to restore you and those of your brothers who still remain, I had intended to move to Ultramar as soon as possible.”
“With all due respect, Empress,” the Imperial Fist started. “I am not sure if the Ultramarines are exactly prepared to undertake any major campaigns for the foreseeable future.”
“Why?”
“The Schism; there are those among the Ultramarines who have grown weary, especially when working alongside some of their own number.” Twilight watched as Celestia’s face darkened, her free hand tightening ever so slightly. The others in the room looked to one another, nervous energy spreading like a fire.
“It would have been better had you told me of this sooner,” she growled. “I will address this, but that will have to wait... for now.” Celestia’s face lightened somewhat as she continued. “Moving south will perhaps be our best option; it will allow our armies to battle against some... lesser foes, and we will be able to gain the help of several First Founding Chapters to bolster our ranks.”
“It will also draw us closer to some of the tendrils of the Tyranid Hive Fleets,” the first man said. “Breaking them might stall the Crusade before we can accomplish our goal of retaking the galaxy.”
“Do you not have faith?” Celestia asked. The room fell silent for a moment before she continued. “Do you not have faith that I am strong enough to stand against the Tyranids? Do you truly believe that we may be undone by them, and that our light will be extinguished among millions of chitinous bodies?”
“... Of course not, Empress.” the man said quickly. “Forgive me for my lack of faith.”
“You are forgiven.” Celestia turned next to Corax. “You, Corax, may also take this time to reconnect with the Raven Guard; I am sure you would be more effective with your sons at your side.”
“I’m sure...” Corax said, falling silent for several moments. “It remains to be seen, though, if they would be so willing to accept me as their leader once more.”
“Give it time, my friend; I am sure they will come around.” Celestia rose to her feet. “Send word to your commanders, your brothers at arms; I want our forces ready to move by the end of the month, once a suitable target has been chosen.”
“Of course, Empress.” the Imperial Fist said. “I promise you, we shall not leave you wanting.”
“I am sure. You are all dismissed.” Those present prepared to leave before Celestia spoke again. “Tara, a moment, please.” Twilight stopped, looking towards where the Sisters stood waiting. They gave a small nod before departing, taking a position outside the doors as they closed, leaving Celestia and Twilight alone once more.
Twilight turned towards her mentor. “Is something wrong, Princess?”
“Many things, but they do not matter now.” Celestia said, crossing the room to stand before Twilight. “I wish to know if you are prepared for what you are to face.”
“Corax asked me that earlier...” Twilight started. “... He didn’t seem very confident in my abilities.”
“It is a lot I’m asking of you, Twilight.” Celestia kneeled so she could be on eye level with Twilight. “I have done all I can to protect you, Twilight, and soon that shall be put to the test. This is a dangerous galaxy, and I may not always be there to keep an eye on you.”
“But I have the Sisters, and Mattias and his followers.”
“True, but even they may not be enough.” Celestia gave a small sigh. “I do not wish to discourage you, Twilight, but I do ask that you prepare yourself for what you might see; You will see many terrible and powerful things, your friends and allies forced into actions that you never thought possible of them... I may not be the same person you think I am.” Twilight said nothing, wringing her hands slightly as she thought o the right thing to say.
“... You brought me here to help you, Princess.” she said finally. “I’m not giving up on that.” there was a pause before Celestia smiled and rose back on her feet.
“That will do, Twilight.” she said. “Come, we have work to do.” Twilight nodded, following after Celestia as she exited the war room. The Sisters and Corax were waiting outside, Naomi’s squad forming up behind Twilight once more while Corax moved to speak with Celestia.
You will see many terrible and powerful things, your friends and allies forced into actions that you never thought possible of them... The Imperium was harsh, but it had its limits. Even then, they still had a ways to travel before they would be thrust into a true war.
Twilight chewed her lip. She would be prepared; the fate of the galaxy depended on that.
Ok, I know you just updated, but before I read this new chapter, I have to tell you the following:
I WILL SEND YOU COOKIES IF AND ONLY IF THE WORDS "ALICORN PRINCESS OF HARMONY UNDIVIDED" APPEAR IN THIS FIC.
7672515
Knowledge of the Imperial Truth, barring those few who are nigh-immune to repercussions, generally gets you killed. Knowledge of Chaos gets you killed. Knowledge of aliens beyond how to spot something that isn't human (on worlds not often attacked by xeno species), can get you ostracized, detained, interrogated, and then killed.
Basically, knowing things = death.
7672532
Chaos Undivided is specifically worded that way to mean "We aren't working together, we're just pointing our guns in the same direction... for now." That's all Undivided stands for, so Harmony Undivided is basically a double negative.
It seems as though more than just the semi-heretical Dark Angels are withholding support from their rightful lord and master. The Emperor has called a Crusade and most of the chapters are still just farting around waffling on what to do and continuing business as usual?
They should have dropped everything and flocked to her feet. You guys realize she can just make more of you, right? Doesn't even need you. Were it me, I'd try to stay on her good side. If she turned out to not be the Emperor, you could just say you were staying close to keep an eye on her and waiting for her to reveal her true schemes so you could strike. If she is the Emperor then you were the first ones to answer the call. The most loyal.
Also, poor Twilight. "The Imperium was harsh, but it had its limits." No, sweet summer child. No it doesn't. The Imperium does what it needs to do to make sure its people survive the darkness. No matter what. The fact that she's still holding onto that belief without voicing it to someone who can educate her and prepare her for what is to come is likely what's going to hurt her the most, if not be what breaks her.
Slight misorder.
You know, after The First Heretic and Betrayer, I never would have thought I'd enjoy seeing Lorgar punch someone. Props to you, good author, for proving me completely wrong.
What's this? Get more First Founding Chapters? And near the 'Nids? Could we perhaps be in for some Space Vampires?
And I'm quite liking your Corax. he retains enough of the poetic darkness to keep his character, but holds just enough back from the edge of emo territory to remain likeable. Kudos!
I am waiting for the announcement of female space marine gene therapy.
The emperor original excuse was he based the genetic template of space marines from his own genetic template, making it impossible to craft a female space marine genetic template.
Well, since the emperor is now an empress, there is nothing stopping her from crafting that gene.
Also... If she decided to create a new generation of primarchs and do not wish to repeat the scattering of the primarchs by the machination of the chaos gods...
What better way then using her own natural womb?
I hope the black Templar will play a prominent role here.
Even though its a second founding chapter, their chapter are badasses among badass space marines.
7672591 And thus a new variation of "The Conversion Bureau" begins...
7672591 There will be no female Space Marines. That would take time which Celestia does not have.
Besides, we have the Sisters. Sisters are cool.
A question., Twilight was taken a bit before season 3 ending is Discord you know partly reformed in this story? I ask because if he is then hee could make a appearance right?
Actually that could be harily of him walking right into the Eye of Terror asking for direction for Celestia with the possibility of Hours in tow to give Celestia a update on how things are going in Equestria... and maybe to see if they need anything.
So the Ultramarines have divided.... It appears that even the chapter who created the Codex Astartes can fall to dissent....
So da humies fink dey can show us up, do dey? Well we'll teach em a fing or two! Gadda da Boyz! Wez goin ta WAAAAGH!!!
I know, I mean, I'm reading all of Magnus's lines in this fic in the TTS Magnus voice. Makes him seem less imposing, him just wanting Daddy's love...and one of Jaghatai's bikes, but then again, who doesn't want one of Jaggy's bikes, they allow you to go fast
The Ultramarines have divided? Or, have mostly cast themselves off from the Imperium.
It sort of makes sense... they are all alone - or at least, them and their successors - on the Eastern Fringe, and the previously weakening resolve of Terra and the Imperium in general could make them (unofficially, but enough that everyone knows) take their territories and tell the rest of the Galaxy where to stick it. Many of the primogenitors that have survived would come to Macragge's call, if push came to shove.
Though, if the 'puritanical' part means a Religious thing, the Ultramarines are often caricatured as worshiping the Codex, but most of the Chapter Leadership (that is given characterization) actually show that isn't the case - Cassius and Calgar creating the Tyrannic War Veterans is a good example of this - the only one who seems to stick rigidly to the book is Agemman; but both Cassius and Tigurius support that awful Sicarius as the Chapter Master over Agemman, so if Calgar bit the dust, it would be likely Sicarius to take over.
Though I suppose a semi-civil war between the Marines that supported the strict following of the letter Codex and Agemman moving from First Captain to Chapter Master, and those that follow the spirit of the book and support Sicarius could happen. The Space Marine codex does hint that things could come to a head between the two, and while that actually spilling over into armed conflict seems almost impossible, so does the Emperor returning on a Tau planet in a woman's body.
(I dislike Sicarius because he's the big negative that most people who dislike Ultramarines hate - covered in bling, a huge glory hound, and literally pouted for a century until the Ultramarines returned to Damnos to take revenge on the Necrons.)
I suppose if you were going to have any of the First Founding chapters have an ideological split or take their ball and go home, the Ultramarines make the most sense - and as you can tell, I love me some Ultramarines. But they are both overdue for some internal conflict and a bit more separated from the main body of the Imperium. I kind of hope the upcoming campaigns and the return of loyalist primarchs will bring that out with the return of Guilliman.
Keep up the great work!
EDIT: I noticed that Celestia intends/intended to restore Guilliman to health - interesting. I'm kind of surprised she/they aren't tempted to go to Macragge regardless of any schism, as the area around Macragge has more than a few important worlds - Macragge itself, and the forge world in it's domain, the Knightly Houses of Terryn and Raven are nearby, as is the Titan Forge World of Metalica, and the planets that support all of those worlds, of course.
Why do I think Twilight will be a spanner in the works for the enemy's of Celestia. If they only knew who came with Celestia they would be more prepared, maybe.
I'm guessing the schism is those that follow Ventris and those who don't.
*Silently hoping that Magnus betrays Lorgar*
Think this should be a do
Will we be seeing anything from the Blood Ravens?
Do be fair, he did have faith that it could be done, he was just worrying about how long it would take.
Yeah a start, as in that's enough to take a system if we're going to take previous Imperial campaigns as a basis. Though this is The Emperor we're talking about so who knows what kind of TACTICAL GENIUUUUUUS she could come up with.
i1.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/080/722/1242252825237.jpg
JUST IMAGINE WHAT THE EMPEROR COULD DO IF A MORTAL MAN CAN ACOMPLISH THIS
(Though seriously if you want someone to throw lore questions at when it comes to the IG let me know)
7672646
SHUT UP GREENSKINS
7672615 Discord in this continuity was a bit more evil than he is in the main continuity (as I wrote his scenes before Keep Calm and Flutter On), so it is unlikely.
7672719 She was planning to go to Macragge; the Schism is just another problem on a set of problems she'll deal with once she gets there (after smashing her way through a few hordes of orks and Tyranids, of course)
7673420 Whatever happened to Titus? I know Sicarius and Papa Smurf died so he took up the role of Big Papa Smurf but has he died? If so I hope it was a death by ramming a baneblade into a Hive Tyrant while playing a guitar that shoots promethium as explosions go off all around in a way that would make Micheal Bay shed a tear.
7673435 Titus' death was truly glorious... unfortunately, it also indirectly caused the Schism of Ultramar, sadly enough.
7673494
1d4chan.org/images/thumb/d/d6/Titus_titlescreen.jpg/250px-Titus_titlescreen.jpg
RIP IN PIZZA TITUS. I'LL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU FOR YOUR EXCELLENT JAWLINE AND FOR BEING A TOTALLY RATIONAL SMURF
Though I do look forward to seeing the Schism of Ultramar.
7672609
I think I heard the sound of a million boltors being lowered at once at that.
Hard to hate the Boltor Bitches indeed.
7673420 Ahh, smashing Orks, the ultimate Imperial bonding experience!
Or so the Ultramarines thought..!
*Remembers Calth*
7673494 Titus is canon in your story? I guess I can blame that turd of a tactical marine for all of this trouble, as well!
LEANDROSSSSSSSSS!
In summary, Magnymagic has one of his little moments;
You know, despite my comments being, overly enthusiastic at times it's really because I do love this fic. And I'm actually thinking about what I say rather than spouting random shit and memes. Although it may LOOK like that, I'm not.
7673667 Not Celestia. But the God-Emperor of Mankind. And yes. Big Papa E* definitely loves to purge the xenos.
* As per the teachings of the Lectcio Divinitatus I'll also accept:
- The Empra
- Emps
- Big Daddy E
- Big E
- Space Jesus
- The Best Emperor
- E-Money
- The Athenaema
- The Swaglord
- Das Übermensch
- Der letzte Kaiser
(Didn't even need Google Translate)
Oh no, not My Little Astartes: Friendship is Fire! Don't let them get hurt!
It's basically the opposite of friendship being magic.
7672646
WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGH!!!!!!!!!
7672534
Harmony can still be divided into its six component Elements, though.
Ok, gotta eat breakfast. Will read more later.
7672827
"... I only ever wanted a mother to read me bedtime spellbooks. Now that dad is mom, I don't need Chaos anymore, Lorgar."
7673667
The premise of these stories is that the God-Emperor of Mankind (aka: Big Daddy Order) is the one who becomes Celestia. So yes, in this setting this is exactly something Celestia would do.
7672646
Just what this Crusade needs to get itself started: a good ol' greenskin hunt!
WAAAAAAAAGH!
7672827
I've gotten so used to Text-To-Speech Magnus that it's weirding me out to see him as a villain again!
7674518 Just noting, but the Lectitio Divinitatus was written by the edgy asshole of a son Lorgar and is MAXIMUM HERESY.
7673254
And to be fair, the Emperor isn't very big on faith. I would kinda think that after some ACTUAL CHARACTER GROWTH from being an alicorn princess for a while, which also consisted of being gone from the Milky Way for millenia, he/she would be sowing a bit less tension in the ranks with the talk of faith. The Imperium of Man kept faith for more than 10,000 years, and it helped them not at all.
I don't think there's any legitimate way to prepare for seeing Chaos for the first time. Honestly, the best you can do is to drill in that this shit is wrong and needs to meet the business end of a bolter.
7677641 That's the joke. GeeDubbs made it like 10 years ago. Get with the program.
7677639 well... many of the races in the warhammer 40k verse refuse to listen to reason and are always fighting each other. So attacking them and making a show of force may be required in order to make them not attack the Imperium.
7675079 So she would drive everything that isn't human to extinction? Or just give them a reminder of why you don't attack the Imperium of Man.
7674518 So she just went back to how she used to be and declared exterminatus on everything that isn't human?
7680344 Well not exterminatus. During the Great Crusade they got purged by the Space Marines.
7677639 I'm sorry are you not aware that this is Warhammer 40k?
IN THE GRIM DARKNESS OF THE FORTY-FIRST MILLENIUM, THERE IS ONLY WAR. PEACE HAS NO PLACE IN THIS WORLD.
7680369 So, subjugating them or just driving them out?
7680475 Neither. They will be purged. But seeing as the Space Marine Legions have been broken up into chapters and are now much smaller the majority of the work shall be done by the Imperial Guard. The purpose of a crusade is to purge planets of the Enemies of Man so that humanity may have more planets. For the galaxy belongs to the Emperor. And there are no room for xenos, heretics, and mutants.
7680334
No, compared to the current Imperium of the 41st millennium the Emperor was a saint to xeno species. He was even on decent speaking terms with Eldrad of Ulthwe at one point, if I recall.
He didn't mind aliens one bit so long as they were not hostile and did not stand in the way of humanity's conquest of the galaxy. Anyone who dared raise their hand to the Imperium was snuffed out in short order, but anyxeno who let them go about their business unmolested or was being helpful in some capacity was spared and generally not that inconvenienced.
Ten thousand years after the Emperor 'died', humanity just considers (generally) all aliens to be evil and goes out of their way to exterminate them. They can hardly trust each other, they don't trust other species who are looking out for themselves, as well. And to be fair, that's somewhat the fault of the five main xeno species which they are in constant war with. The Orks, the Eldar, the Tau, the Necron, and the Tyranids. Orks, Tau, Crons, and Nids want humanity wiped out. As well as at least two Craftworlds of the Eldar who are very anti-human. The rest of the Craftworlds are typically just looking out for Eldar interests and manipulating everyone else to serve those interests.
7680557 So, "purge" means "kill everyone that isn't human"?
7680960 So, deplomacy probably isn't going to work. Wouldn't hurt to try with the Eldar and maybe the Tau though. They seem like the most reasonable factions out there.
7684412
They are not. The Tau's soldiery and civilians are somewhat reasonable, but they are controlled by the Ethereal Caste through indoctrination and pheromones emitted from the triangular vagina on their foreheads. Tau want to, rather than eradicating every other species, absorb every other species into a second-class citizen sort of deal, forcing them into part of their Empire. Like the Imperium they do not brook anyone who refuses, however unlike the Imperium the Tau Empire will use trickery and guile to make people give up the will to resist and create traitors in the ranks of almost any world they visit. They talk about peace and sparing lives, but if you say 'Thank you that sounds wonderful, we will in no way attack you or anything of the sort, but could you please leave us be, we have no intention of seeking battle or betraying our people." they will vaporize your whole civilization, wipe it off the planet you're on, then use it for space and resources.
The Eldar are masters of deception and magicks, using their future-sight abilities to outmaneuver many of the greatest diplomats and strategists. They will turn whole systems into a bloody mess of war and infighting so long as it advances their own survival. The Eldar are the ones who originally controlled the Galaxy after the War in Heaven, and then they messed it all up by getting addicted to their power. They held planet-wide orgies of sex and murder and mutation, using their nigh-immortal lifespans to experience as many sensations as possible. Their ceaseless fucking and stabbityness was so overwhelming that they birthed the fourth of the current Dark Gods of Chaos, Slaanesh - Prince of Pain and Pleasure/She Who Thirsts - whose birthing cry ripped open a hole in reality, forming a gaping anus between realspace and the Warp, allowing daemonic entities and the forces of Chaos to come and go as they please - the birthing cry also almost completely eradicated their species. Now the very few survivors sacrifice billions of other lifeforms just to keep afloat another year after the galaxy paid the price of their mistake and debauchery.
SOME Eldar legitimately want peace with humanity and to join forces. SOME Tau do, as well. But considering how tricky all of them as a whole are, there's no point in trusting any of them. Many times, when an Eldar has been trusted, it's led to the death of worlds, whole regiments, just to keep themselves alive a bit longer by throwing their duped 'allies' in the path of a stronger enemy as a meatshield.
7684404 Damn right
7684513 So, just drive them to EXTINCTION? think of Fluttershy! Can't they take out the Ethereal caste with the Tau, and with the Eldar, just tell them that if they want protection, then work alongside the Imperium and TELL them of anything bad that they foresee happening? They worked with each other at least during the war for the Gothic Sector. Also, the blood angels at least one time fought alongside the freaking NECRONS. This is why you send in the Reasonable Marines to drive out your foes. Only send in the less than reasonable devisions like the F**KMOTHERING ANGRY MARINES when diplomacy fails along the lines of you telling them that they can do this the easy way, or the hard way. And the enemy opening fire while shouting: "F**K YOU!" Over the noise in response. I think even DA ORKS will work with you so long as you give them something to fight. The tyranids... kill off their hive mind with fire. Preferably BEFORE they send out jeanstealers and take everyone's pants.
7685254 Fk. Fluttershy would have a word with Celestia if she was there. She would probably bring out "The Stare" on her AND the other races (Nids included, it would probably work against them just as well as anyone else if not BETTER because they have a single mind, so she only needs to look ONE swarm lord in the eyes (I would like to see that happening and the ENTIRE SWARM acting like anything else she turned her Stare on.) while chewing them out on their behavior towards their neighbors. That would be something I would like to see; galactic peace all thanks to Fluttershy giving every race leader "The Stare". The only ones it probably WON'T work against are the Dark Eldar and forces of Chaos. And DA ORKS!
7685921
No. Because A: Tau will defend Ethereals with basically their entire populace, also with with the entire populaces of those who've changed sides to ally with them. Including what is assumed to be the last of the Squats, the Kroot, various other minor alien species, and traitorous humans. B: Even if you killed their leaders, the Tau would only be more deadset on killing you. Tau view anyone who does not join as an enemy to be slaughtered. They are a threat to the Imperium because their technology keeps increasing by leaps and bounds every few years instead of declining like everyone else's, and because the Tau homeworld is -very- near to core Imperial space. That much 'we hate humans who don't lick our boots' and dakka on your back porch? You better be fighting them or else they're going to bend you over and take you to town.
The Eldar are old beyond comprehension. They remember when the prototypes of Mankind were fleabitten monkeys, thus why they call humans Mon'keigh. They see humans at worst, as unevolved primates who are inconsequential except as tools, and at best as children who need guidance or protection (usually in the case of those humans who gain access to live and study on a Craftworld, which is rare). They are too set in their ways to listen to humanity, and do not trust humanity for a number of reasons. When Eldrad went to warn the Emperor about the coming Horus Heresy, he was met by a Primarch who was meant to relay the message to his father, but was one of the first Primarchs who was turned to Chaos. He tried to kill Eldrad, forever damaging relations with the Eldar even further.
Eldar only work 'with' humanity to use humanity's numbers of combat prowess to their advantage. Basically, if they team up with you, it's because if you die at this specific time in this particular battle, they will die soon after.
This war's been on for ten thousand years (a period of time the human mind literally cannot fully encompass). Of course diplomacy was tried. Clearly, it did not work. Otherwise they'd not be fighting this long. Hell, there's some groups out there that just want humanity completely wiped out because they're the main source of fuel for the Chaos Gods, and without humanity they'd be too weak to be a threat.
Humanity has no allies among the stars. And are more often than not at each other's throats themselves due to interfaction feuds and allegations of heresy.