MedHammer 40,000

This page is in need of cleanup. Srsly. It's a fucking mess.

>

NOTE: This is a suggestions page. If you want the Grimbright warhammer, please go to the actual page here.

Really Like the Ideas posted in Midhammer, and was sad to see it hasn't been edited in a while. I wanted to share some of my ideas to fill in the spaces for Midhammer. My goal was to add efficient effective institutions while keeping with the Bittersweet, "Grimbright" feel of Midhammer. I posted these originally on the Main Midhammer 40,000 page, but it wound up just cluttering everything. And there is probably too much to just put in the talk section. Please let me know what you think! --Wammnebu (talk)

WORK IN PROGRESS

The Great Treachery (IE The Lorgar Letdown)

The Great Treachery was one of the greatest tragedies to befall the Imperium of Man. Maddened that his worship of The Emperor was rebuffed, Lorgar turned against his father, falling prey to the Dark Powers. During his act of Treachery, Ultramar and Luna were left forever scarred, the Segmentum Pacificus was ravaged by civil war, and the Emperor himself was wounded by the macinations of his traitorus sons.

Term for Lorgar Letdown

The term for The Lorgar Letdown should be something grandiose like "The Great Heresey," "The Great Treachery" or "The Desolation of Lorgar." The overreaction of the Imperium to it helps set the tone for the Grimbrightness, and helps convey how innocent the Imperium of this world is. Much like how WWI was naively called "The War to End All Wars." We the readers know it could get much, much worse, but for those living in Grimbright future of the 41,000, this is as bad as it gets.

Rough Timeline of The Great Betrayal

Before The Heresy

Though historians would mark the Great Betrayal as beginning with The Word Bearers attack on the Ultramarines at Calth, there were several events that lead up to the war. Most of the Opening moves were made by Lorgar and Alpharius, who set the stage for their actions years before anyone in the Imperium was aware.

Lorgar following his Legion's humiliation at the hands of his father, is convinced by Erebus and Kor Phaeron to turn to Chaos.
Lorgar and Erebus enlist help of Perturabo, Angron, Luther, Mortarion, and Alpharius following the Council of Nikea
1. Plan to bring Horus, Russ, and The Lion into fold.
Perturabo immediately begins work on Preparing Olympia in Secret
Horus is set up by the Chaos gods to be stabbed with Anathame Blade, blade stabs Horus Aximand instead
1. Chaos recalculates, Lorgar to Remain leader.
Alpharius uses legion to infiltrate relevant sectors:
1. Custodes, Space Wolves, Dark Angels, Sons of Horus, Ultramar local government, and Night Lords all targeted
2. Infiltration and corruption of several Forge Worlds in the Ultima and Pacificus Segmenti.
3. Plan
  1. eliminate Ultramarines (Word Bearers/World Eaters), Imperial Fists (Iron Warriors), Thousand Sons (Space Wolves), Emperor's Children (Death Gaurd)
  2. Convert Sons of Horus (Aximand), Raven Gaurd (Death Guard), Dark Angels (Luther), Space Wolves

Beginning of Heresey

Word Bearers and Ultramarines commanded by "Horus" to deal with Calth
1. Plan to use misinformation campaign, warpstorms, and betrayal of calth to creat Ultramar Civil War
Word Bearers, World Eaters and Night Lords prepare for Joint excercises in Ultima Segmentum
Erebus encouraged to join Dark Angels on observation mission
1. Plan to use demonic incursion on Maccragge to further push Ultramar from Imperium
Russ sent by Horus to pacify Magnus for unregistered use of Psykers
1. Alpharius' undercover agents with Space wolfs encourage Wolven aggression
2. encourages anti-psyker sentiments
3. Russ, looking to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, deploys army outside of Thousand Sons Fortress Monastery
4. Thousand Sons refuse to allow entrance, Space Wolves begin seiging Fortress Monastery
5. Magnus sends distress signal recieved by The Lion
The Rock hears Russ's distress signal, Luther sees time to act.
1. Luther Mutinies
2. leaves Loyalists and The Lion prisoners on Calliban,
3. Erebus and Luther Desolate Calliban planet offering sacrifice to encourage the beasts to return
4. Takes fleet to join Heresy
Stormseers of White Scars notice rumblings in the warp around Ultramar
1. Rumblings partially due to Khorne's anger that Russ did not turn
2. Khan sends psychic message to Roboute Gulliman to pierce warpstorms
3. Gulliman travels to Macragge in secret, leaves Legion under Command of Thiel
4. Travels to Ultramar to begin evacuating planet
Unplanned Demon incursion forces Ultramarines and Word Bearers to fight and destroy Monarchia
1. Demon incursion turns out to be Doombreed looking to capture and punish Lorgar
2. Thiel splits forces, half continue to Calth, better prepared for Demons
3. Other Half reaches out to Terra but unable to due to warp storms, proceeds to McCragge

The Aftermath of Calth

Word Bearers and Antoni arrive at Calth
Word Bearers betray Ultramarines using suprise attack and demons
1. Ultramarines, now familiar with demonic incursions, more successful take half of the Word Bearers with them
2. Ultramarines ultimately lose, forces exterminated with some captured to be corrupted and transformed by Lorgar.
3. Alpharius disinformation campaign begins,
  1. spreads rumors to Ultramar that Empire betrayed them
  2. spreads rumors to other legions that Gulliman betrayed Imperium.
Victorious Word Bearers under Lorgar begin ccouring "Traitors" of Ultramar taking vengeance for Monarchia.
Gulliman and Ultramarines discuss actions on Monarchia,
1. Betrayal at Calth occurs, Gulliman learns of disinformation campaign
2. Seeing that Maccragge is about to be caught in the Crossfire, Orders Remaining Ultramarines to aid and escort Maccragge offworld to terra
3. Ultramarines and Maccragge Refugees (somewhere between 60-80% on overcrowded ships) travel into warp to Terra on low-end Ultramarine fleet and civilian ships).
  1. Naval Fleets emptied of remaining Ultramarines to make room for more refugees.
Gulliman organizes remaining of maccragge and ultramarines into last stand defense
1. Maccragge Palace District Transformed into Fortification
World Eaters and Kor Phaeron's Word Bearers arrive at Maccragge, begin bombardment of planet
1. McCragge Holds, for now
2. being persued by Word Bearer forces, the Migrant fleet makes an emergency jump to Terra
On Calliban, The Lion and his captive loyalists are helpless as The Planet falls to the Beasts.
Jaghatai Khan arrives to the Aid of The Thousand sons
1. Sends troops to aid in the defense of the seige, additional Stormseers enrage the Space Wolves.
2. Russ contacts Khan, Khan tries to explain his premonitions
Luther arrives to "aid" The Thousand Sons
Immediately begins firing on Jaghatai Khan's Ships
1. Space Wolves fleets Join
2. Russ Tries to regain control of his forces, but the blood lust and madness had already begun to take hold. Space Wolves begin to abandon their posts in the seige to sack Prospero itself. Russ forced to fight his own legion.
Despite being outnumbered and ambushed, Jaghatai and his fleets force the Space Wolves and The Fallen to Flee.
1. Prospero itself begins to be pulled into the warp due to the bloodshed and macinations of Erebus and Alpharius' agents.
2. The Fallen Fleets escape, but Space Wolves do not, trapped in the warp, confused and slaves to their passions, the Space Wolf Fleet too goes feral and falls to the warp.
Trapped in a litteral hellscape, as the Ferral Wulfen Marines and Demons run rampage through Prospero, and by this point had emptied the planet. The Wulfen and the Demons now continue their siege of the Fortress Monastery.
Seeing that they were trapped The Thousand Sons legion bravely hold their ground to ensure their Primarch escapes with the knowledge of Prospero. Magnus swears to bring aid. Aid never comes. The Khan and his fleet travel out of the warp and attempt to reach Horus.
The World Eaters arrive at Maccragge begin seiging planet.
1. Remaining ultramarine naval aid in helping refugee fleets escape

The Fall of MacCragge

The Fall of MaCragge is the pivotal moment of the heresy. Though news of Prospero and Calliban had reached Terra, MacCragge made clear that Imperium was not witnessing minor uprisings, but an existential threat. This singular event set into motion events that forever changed the nature of ultramar, the Legione Astartes, and the Imperium at large

Roboute Gulliman and his remaining forces bunker into palace district in last stand.
The Remaining men of Maccragge organize themselves as militias.
Outer city ripped apart to transform and fortify Palace district.
World Eaters, part of the Night Lords, and Word Bearers prepare for attack.
Konrad Curze Himself pursues the Refugee fleet, also gets trapped in the warp.
After a month of seiging, Roboute is able to Parlay with ground forces
1. Meets with Macer Varren of The World Eaters, Kaspian Hech of The Word Bearers, Zso Shahaal of The Night Lords to attempt to explain situation.
2. Temporary cease fire declared.
The Traitors, Angron and Kor Phaeron, in orbit use this opportunity to attack. Suprise attack on Forces on the ground
1. Few Loyalist survivors brought into fortress monastery.
Angron uses gifts from nurgle to resurrect fallen soldiers on planet, fallen become possessed by Nurgle's demons.
Outer Palace falls to possessed horde and unclean demons, remaining defenders forced to retreat to inner sanctum.
Gulliman reveals remaining ship kept in secret bunker for emergency (like this one)
1. last stand forces alternate for one month between holding the line and outfitting ship for escape.
Fel Zharost, Kaspian Hech, and Volkhar Wreck, along with Ultramarine Librarius allow Gulliman to form a psychic connection with Migrant fleet through Mother Tanasha Euten. Provides her and fleet with warning regarding the happenings on Maccragge and the Rest of Ultramar.
1. Macer Varren also connected to link Psychic connection used to allow ship to link up with Migrant fleet without use of Astropath.
Using diversion all but Gulliman remain on planet. Ship escapes
1. Loyalists bring last writings of Gulliman on board with them.
Lorgar Arrives to planet after scouring of Ultramar, furious when hearing about ship dedicates the planet of Maccragge to chaos. Hosts of demons emerge.
1. Gulliman fights demons alone, but ultimately captured.
2. Tortured by Traitor Night Lords, Angron, Lorgar and Demon Host.
  1. Because of Psychic connectoin, Macer and Tanasha witness and to some extent feel Gullimans torture, their strength and resolve also strengthens gulliman.
3. Attempt to bond him to demon fails, mentally overwhelms demon, but kills Gulliman.
4. Psychic blast of his death purifies region around him, obliterates many weaker demons
5. Wounds Lorgar, forcing him to take a less direct role in remainder of the Heresy.
Gellar field on migrant fleet of mccragge begins to fail
1. Tanasha uses herself as the anchor of faith for the migrant crew, and as such begins the process that ultimately creates a new Chaos God, The Aurelian.
2. Her ship falls out of the warp to crash land on San Leor
3. Rest of Crew and Stragglers make it to Terra
4. His connection to Tanasha and Gulliman overwhelms Macer's Butchers Nails. Becomes the first Living Saint of The Aurelian, The Consumed One.

The Aximand Uprising

Sometimes called "The Little Horus Heresy" Horus Aximand, corrupted by the Anathame blade, and filled with insecurity and anger regarding his own identity being subsumed by his father, attempted to mutiny and take the mantle of Champion of Chaos from Lorgar.

Luther Contacts Horus, claiming that the Lion had gone Rogue,
Lupercal sends many of his legion to Calliban, to deal with the Lion commissions organization
Horus Aximand, who had been coordinating with Luther makes his move
Horus Aximand leads a mutiny against his father with the help of the Dark angels and corrupted mournival
Horus and some loyalists imprisoned in his own Flagship, majority of Horus and Lion's fleet now with Chaos.
Abandons Horus' loyalists, led by Abbadon on The Demon infested wasteland of Calliban
They encounter the Dark Angels and with their help break into the Rock to Rescue The Lion.

The Imperium Acts

The migrant fleet of McCragge arrives on Terra.
1. By this point, news of Prospero's disappearance into the warp had become known.

Suggestion For The Drop-Site Massacre

Merge Betrayal at Calth with Isstvan IV with Rouboute Gulliman taking the hit for Sanguinious and Ferrus Manus. Alpharius and Lorgar devise a plan to royally f*** over the Ultramarines, and use Gulliman's realm to create an inter-Imperial civil war.

Lorgar and Alpharius’ Evil Scheme^TM

Alpharius and Lorgar convince Horus to send him and Gulliman to take car of Calth.
Lorgar Splits his Legion in Two. Keeps half of the most loyal (to him) to travel with him to Calth, the other Half goes to Maccragge with Kor Phaeron.
Kor Phaeron brings most of the Loyalist Word Bearers with him, however nearly all of the ship's crew and psykers are fervent traitors. Mortarian's loyalists will also be nearby.
When Gulliman and Friends get to Calth, the Word Bearers would betray him, kill Gulliman and most of the ultramarines there.
Lorgar sends word out to Galaxy that Ultramarines have betrayed the Emperor, so that other Primarchs (especially The Lion and Russ) will come to happily destroy Ultramar.
Loyalist Word Bearers and Death Gaurd conveniently near Maccragge hear the news, and invade to "pacify" the planet
Once WB and DG loyalists have done enough damage to the ultramarines (or before they start to realize they were sent to kill loyalists), DG and WB ships will begin Gas Bombing Their own loyalist regiments.
Traitor Word Bearers on board will offer the chaos, bloodshed, and unholy fratricide as an offering to the Dark Gods for a demonhost to appear on Macragge.
Other Loyalist Legions like the Dark Angels and Space Wolves will arrive on Maccragge see chaos demons and surmize the reports of Gulliman's treachery were correct. Begin take no prisoners assault on Maccragge
Alpha Legion will send reports to rest of Ultramar that The Emperor betrayed them, loss of both Gulliman and Maccragge will prompt the Kingdom to retaliate.
Lion and Wolf will fight Ultramarines
Lion and Wolf will lose because Luther and Khornite Space Wolves will take this opportunity to betray their Genefathers. El'Johnson and Russ die surrounded by traitors and vengeful ultramarines.
Profit. Permanent rift between Ultramar and Empire. Ultramar will be susceptible towards Chaos. Three Loyalist Primarchs will be dead, Ultramarine, Space Wolves, and Dark Angel remnants will join the Traitors. Kingdom of Ultramar will be Merged with Monarchia for Chaos Base of Operations.

Failures of The Betrayal

Fortunately For the Imperium, things start Falling apart around Step 4. For a number of Reasons.

Khan-Gulliman Broship

Because of the friendship between the Vth and XIIIth legions in this timeline, the Stormseers get a premonition of the dark macinations against the Ultramar and decide to warn them. Unable to physically warn him because of warp storms, Khan pulls a Magnus and sends a supercharged Psychic warning to Gulliman: a vision of an destroyed nest where Mother and Eaglet lay dead amidst a pile of smashed eggs. Gulliman got the message and chose to secretly travel from Monarchia (where both legions were) to Macragge with a few ships leaving the expedition to Calth in the capable hands of Sargent Aeonid Theil. Gulliman is able to get to MacCragge before the invasion begins.

Bel`akor

Bel`akor wrecks Step 5 and 6 There was a second consequence to Khan's Psychic message, in that it left the barrier between reality and the warp soft around the already warp-soft Monarchia. Because of this, Bel`akor (who was already irritated at the Uppity Lorgar trying to take his job) took this opportunity to lead an invasion to claim Monarchia for himself. Belakor's Bluster has several implications on Lorgar/Alpharius' evil scheme: This invasion caught both legions off guard, weakening both the Ultramarines and to a greater extent the Word Bearers. Not only did the incursion of Monarchia destroy the suprise factor of Chaos, but Lorgar inadvertantly taught the Ultramarines how to fight demons. The warp storms that built up as a result of the increased demonic activity prevented Alpharius from learning what was going on to devise a new plan The counter attack and exterminatus delayed the betrayal by months. Giving Gulliman much needed planning room. news about the Demon incursion at Monarchia gets out, complicating things for the loyalists under Kor Phaeron. After the demonhosts and the cultists are defeated, the suspicious Aeonid Thiel determines that the best course of action is to Exterminatus Monarchia before he and Lorgar go to Calth. In hindsight the smart thing for Lorgar to do would have been to try to attack the Ultramarines there, but instead Lorgar bites his tongue, decides to stick to the plan, and goes along with the exterminatus, offering the death of his planet as a sacrifice to the Dark Gods.

Gulliman wrecks Steps 6 and 7

Gulliman arrives on Maccragge in secret and with the Regents of Ultramar and has ample time to asses the situation and make preparations. Realizing that Warpstorms surrounding Ultrmar have cut it off from the rest of the Imperium, that the Death Gaurd and Word Bearers have amassed fleets within striking distance, he saw what was about to happen. Lacking his Space Marines, he decides the best course of action is to prepare for an evacuation of the planet. In what could be called his logistical magnum opus, he is able to ground, redirect, and even construct enough vessels to amass an armada to evacuate more that 70% of the Planet, led by his mother. The 30% that remained refused to let Maccragge go down without a fight, and so they prepared under Gulliman to for a last stand until help from the Imperium could come (it doesn't). Additionally because Gulliman was there to defend his planet personally, he was able to prevent most of the inter-loyalist bloodshed that was supposed to happen. Commander Nathaniel Garro Meets Rouboute Gulliman during their invasion of Maccragge and is able to save the loyalist death Gaurd from unite the loyalists for a last stand of Macragge. During the long seige Gulliman composed several writings including what would eventually become "The Codex Astartes." Garro is able to escape with the Last Writings of Rouboute Gulliman who dies fending off the demon hordes.

Luther and Khorne wreck Steps 9, 11, and 12

The Delay of the Betrayal of Calth, and Warp Storms as a result of the Demon incursion/Exterminatus of Monarchia mean that by the time the Betrayal of Calth and invasion of Macragge actually happens, Khorne grows impatient with Tzeentch/Lorgar/Alpharius's plan, and decides he wants the Space Wolves under him now. The Wolf Sons grow impatient and more rabid. Perhaps if Lorgar had known he could have helped the Wolves hold their sanity, but he was out of contact with the greater Imperium because of the warpstorms. So when The Legion goes to Prospero there is nothing anyone (russ, alpharius, or lorgar) can do to stop the feral hordes that were once men of Fenris. Unable to stop the Bloodshed, a disgraced Russ sends a lone message of warning to the greater Imperium. When the Dark Angels received word of The Burning of Prospero, they were supposed to have been well on their way to Maccrage, yet there were no messages from Calth or Maccragge. And the Dark Angels were attending to their own affairs on The Rock. The Lion upon hearing about the Destruction by the Hands of the Space Wolves, he orders his legion to immediately abandon their current mission and come to the aid of Magnus' homeworld. Luther becomes concerned. Had the Plan changed? Had it Failed? He wasn't sure, but he was certain that he couldn't let The Lion get to Prospero. In haste he and Alpharius (who has not heard from Lorgar or Kor Phaeron) orders his fallen to create an impromptu "Drop Site Massacre" complete with sabotages of 1st Legion Fleets, as well as control of Calliban's Fortress monastery. Ironically, Luther's ad hoc plan was far more successful Alpharius' meticulously planned Massacre of Macragge as the bitter and enraged Lion spent many bitter months fighting mile by mile against Alpha Legion Trickery, Tzeentchian Demons, The Fallen, and his own corrupted country men. By the time he was able to capture Luther at The Rock, most of the Fallen had taken nearly half of his fleet and left most of his homeworld destroyed. When the exhausted and betrayed El'Johnson heard about The Ultramarines "Betrayal" at Calth and preparation for Maccragge, he prepared for a mad dash to massacre the Ultramarines. Fortunately for the Imperium by the time the Lion got there, Maccragge had long since fallen, and the survivors such as Nathaniel Garro were able to explain what actually happened.

What was Alpharius Thinking?

Suprise! it was all just as planned. Alpharius got all of his objectives out of this mess: Rouboute was Dead half of the Dark Angels are his puppets Lorgar Humiliated before the Chaos gods Magnus punished for defying Tzeentch Daddy Tzeentch proud of his scheming The Ultramarines were broken and scattered All of the chaos and lack of communication in Ultramar, Fenris, and Calliban meant that Terra was less defended. He could go in and strike the Imperial Palace, killing Malcador and delivering a near fatal blow to The Emperor

Aftermath of The Great Treachery (Lorgar Letdown)

While the The Results of the Great Treachery could have been much much worse, as far as everyone present was concerned, this was the worst thing that could have ever happened. Many of the Primarchs were unsure how the Imperium will continue, and their faith in the project severely shaken.

Toll of The Great Treachery

Council of Terra

Following the conclusion of the Treachery and the Imperium had been able to stabilize somewhat, Horus convened the Council of Terra, where in the presence of their weakened Father, they debated the fate of their comatose Imperium. It was here that the Imperium was reformed from a Crusading army to a governing force. The Fate of The Crusading Legions, The Imperial Truth, The High Lords of Terra, and The Imperium's position on Chaos were decided.

Primarchs at The Council of Terra

Very few of the Primarchs escaped the Treachery of Lorgar Unscathed. So when the Primarchs arrived at the Council of Terra, none saw themselves the same as when they started.

Horus (present, favored moderate reform)

Horus's attempts to coordinate military matters during The Great Treachery were severely hampered by an attempted mutiny of Horus Aximand, who was corrupted by The Anatheme Blade. The aftermath of said mutiny was Horus gathering up and executing each and every one of the traitors (including "Little Horus" personally). Horus still bears the physical and emotional scars of this incident, but didn't blame himself as Dorn and Russ did. Instead he blamed his Father, The Emperor, for failing to inform him or his brothers about the dangers of Chaos, resulting in the Legions being completely blindsided by The Treachery. In particular he blamed the death of Horus Aximand and most of the Mournival on the Emperor, believing that he could have saved his wayward son had he known about the corruption festering within him. While still a believer in the Crusade, and his father's dream, he was much more open to the suggestions of his more unorthodox brothers.

Dorn (absent)

Rogal Dorn took the Injury of his Father very personally. Rogal was not seen again until several Mellinnia later. Instead The First Captain of The Imperial Fists arrived at the Council of Terra to deliver Rogal Dorn's resignation as Praetorian of Terra and announcement of self-imposed exile.

Magnus (present, favored heavy reforms)

Perhaps the one who suffered the most out of The Great Treachery, losing his homeworld, and most of his legion to The Space Wolves. Magnus sought a complete reversal of the Council of Nikea, as well as several other reforms. While loyal to The Emperor, he saught a dismantling of the Imperial Truth, which he saw as a failed Noble Lie and blamed it for the destruction of Prospero.

Leman Russ (present, neutral)

The Lone Wolf, now without a Legion. Russ shouldered the blame for the fall of the Space Wolves. Leman still believed in The Emperor, but everything else was shaken. He went into the Council to make ammends for Prospero and planned to support any initiatives brought forth by Magnus. While he did not disparage the Imperial Truth as Magnus and Khan did, he questioned its ability to actually protect the Imperium from the Forces of Chaos.

Lion El'Johnson (present, leader of status-quo faction)

Entering Terra with Half of his legion missing, The Lion was still a steadfast believer in The Imperial Truth, but also understood the viewpoints of its detractors. Apart from greater initiatives for counter-intelligence, The Lion simply wanted the Imperium back on its feet as quickly as possible so that he could rebuild Calliban and hunt for The Fallen.

Jaghatai Khan (present, leader of reform faction)

Jaghatai and Magnus were the two Primarchs who entered with an agenda for an overhaul of The Imperium. Like Magnus, Jaghatai had also disparaged the Imperial Truth, and sought to have both it and The Council of Nikea overturned. He also planned to use the death of Roboute Gulliman and tenuous state of Ultramar, the Draft of The Codex Astartes, and its Fledgling Aurelian Cult to his advantage. Khan hoped to see the Imperium transition from a collection of armies led by Terra to a more nomadic court of galaxy faring Tribes similar to his Homeworld of Chorgoris. He saw the Legions divided into bands of quasi-independent tribes led by a Qagan (the Primarch), who would spread across the galaxy providing protection for the subject planets who would provide men, tithes and culture. Much of this vision was instilled into "Roboute Gulliman's" Codex Astartes.

Konrad Curze (present, neutral)

Perhaps the only man present whose outlook on the current state of the Imperium improved following The Great Treachery. Konrad Curze was still plagued by visions of the worst that could happen to the Imperium, but noticed that his visions had become significantly less horrible, which indicated to him that The Imperium was spared some great tragedy. The sight of The Shadow Raven and "looting" of Nostromo by the Iron Warriors forced the Night Haunter into some introspection. His outlook was similar to Horus in that he felt betrayed by his Father's lies, but took comfort in the fact that this grief was shared (he also enjoyed the death of his brothers' insufferable optimism).

Corvus Corax (MIA)

No one had seen or heard from Corax, or his Legion. Curze assumed the worst, but those closest to the Raven Lord: Vulkan and Russ refused to believe he had betrayed them. They couldn't help but wonder though, and his absence was yet another death-knell for The Imperial Truth.

Roboute Gulliman (KIA)

Wasn't able to attend on account of being dead. Instead Khan insisted on bringing Chapter Master Antolli and The Captain of The Maccragge Migrant fleet to speak on their Father and Lord's behalf.

Sanguinius (chair, favored reform)

Sanguinius simply wanted to have things return to normal, but as it became clear this was no longer possible, Sanguinius tried to balance what he thought would make a strong imperium with the concerns of his brothers.

Descision:The Fate of The Imperium

Given the state of Weakness of their Father, it was decided that the Primarchs would govern the Imperium in their father's stead. The Primarchs determined the best course of action would be to create a quasi decentralized system, where certain primarchs would take command of the outersegmentums, while other primarchs remained on terra to manage the Imperium at Large. The Primarchs would also oversee the fledgling Human Government which would maintain its limited power.

Descisions:

The Emperor would officially remain the head of the Imperium
- De Facto governance of the Imperium would be done by "The Regent Consuls"
The Primarchs would all share equal authority when acting as "The Council of Regents"

Regent Councils

Sanguinius was chosen to be The "Peacemaster" and Co-Consul of the Imperium.
- The Regent would act in the Emperor's stead and oversee the overall management of the imperium, as well as serve as head of state for diplomatic dealings.
- Sanguinius would be "First among Equals" and would act as the Chairman of the Council of Regents.
- Sanguinius wold oversee the High Lords of Terra as a stand-in for the Emperor
Horus would remain "Warmaster" and Co-Consul
- Horus would overrule Sanguinius on all matters pertaining to war.
- During war councils and coordination of the Legions, Horus would be First Among Equals
- Half of all Imperial Tithes would be granted to Horus to use as he saw appropriate for The Imperium's Defense.
The High Lords of Terra
- The High Lords of Terra would remain as governors of the Day-to-Day Management of the Imperium
- The Segmentum Solar would remain under their control
- As of the Council of Terra, Segmentum Tempestus was kept under the control of the Council until Dorn took command of it in M31.
- Sanguinius, acting in stead of his Father, would oversee the High Lords and could overrule them as he saw fit.
- The Realm of Ultramar would be granted a seat on the High Lords of Terra
- Malcador's Inquisition would also be granted a seat on The High Lords of Terra
- An additional seat would be created "Administratum Fidelarum" this position would be chosen jointly by all of the accepted religions in the Imperium.
  - This was a compromise from Jaghatai Khan's desire that each religion be granted a seat
At-Large Primarchs:
- Several of the Most Capable Primarchs would act in service to the greater imperium.
- Per his request, Leman Russ was relieved of all duties, but he still officially has a seat on the Council
- These Primarchs included:

Magnus: who would oversee the Golden Throne and oversee all psyker related activities
Konrad Curze: Who would take over Leman Russ' Role as "The Emperor's Executioner,"; Konrad Curze also served as the Council's "liason" to The Imperial Inquisition
Fulgrim: Who was given oversight over all genetic, medical, ecological, and terraforming operations
Ferrus Manus: Who Oversaw engineering and technological projects
Dorn (nominally): Dorn remained officially the Praetor of the Imperium, until he was later given the Segmentum Tempestus. As of the 41st Mellinium this office was left vacant. Curze, Magnus, and The Custodes all perform the basic functions of this office to protect the Emperor.
Khan: Khan oversaw the Free Chapters of Astartes, effectively making him Liason to Ultramar, Grandmaster of The Grey Knights, and Head of Internal Security.

Segmentum Primarchs
- Several of the Most at risk Segmentums were granted to the remaining Primarchs.
- The Primarchs were permitted to govern these segmentums as they saw fit, and could only be overruled by the Council of Regents.
- The Lion (Obscura), Vulkan (Pacificus), and Later Dorn (Tempestus) were granted segmentums in which they would rule.

Descision:The Fate of The Legions

Decision: The Fate of The Imperial Truth

The Council of Terra was an unquestionable victory for the Detractors of the Imperial truth, with even its defenders unwilling to sacrifice anymore of the Imperium for its well-meaning intentions. In its place was a revised Imperial Truth that was made to stand alongside of the religions of man.

Council of Nikea and Psykers

The Council of Nikea was declared to be null and void. In its place was "The Canon Thaumaturgica."

The Canon Thaumaturgica was composed primarily by Magnus The Red (in Consultation with Khan, The Lion, and Horus).
The canon provided new guidelines for the regulations of Librarius in Space Marine Legions.
Additionally it created an Imperial-wide Protocol for Psykers, their treatment, and their expectations.
The Black Ships were instituted in this, requiring a tithe of Psykers to be brought to Terra.
- These Psykers were to be trained under an academy established by Ahriman

Magnus also provided his own consultation for the use of Psykers in The Codex Astartes, eventually adding his own section The Regula Prosperae and contributing some of his own rebuilding legion to some space marine chapters

The Terran Creed

The New Imperial Truth, commonly referred to as the Terran Creed or "The 53 Precepts" was created following the council to represent "The Standard of Belief and Knowledge that all imperial citizens should know. It set out to replace the harsh Athiest Dictums of the Imperial Truth with a milder "agnostic" creed. At the council it was mandated that All Imperial Citizens must believe in this Imperial Creed, and that any organization, religious or ideological that opposes any of these tenants will be decreed Heretical. Contrary to the original Truth, it was thought better to give the people some awareness as to who they were fighting, than to offer lies. Additionally the old world religions were consulted and, since they did not believe their gods resided in the warp, the provisions were added that excluded them from heresy, while subtly hinting their religions were false (which the The Khan protested against, but accepted the compromise with gritted teeth). The Aurelian cult was another matter, unsure whether the Aurelian cult, along with other Chaos gods (Rumors of entities called Malal or Necoho), it was decided to add precepts 45-49 and should the Creed need to be revised they would do so. The Creed was considered vague enough to encourage both persecution and tolerance when needed, while allowing for clear precedents for the condemnation of chaos cults.

The New Imperial Truth or 53 Precepts

I know I am a Human, as a Human I am part of Mankind

All Humans are part of Mankind

All those who are a part of Mankind are Human

Those who not a part of Mankind are Xenos

A Human will not serve, obey, follow, kill for, or die for a Xenos

Terra is a place in the Material Realm

The Material Realm is a real place that exists

The Material Realm is filled with Material beings

Material Beings follow material rules

Humans are material beings.

My works and deeds shape the Material Realm

Mankind derives from Terra

Terra is a real place separate from the Immaterial

The Galaxy is Material and the Birthright of Mankind

The Emperor is The Leader of Mankind

The Emperor is Material, is Human, and is from Terra

The Emperor has Eighteen sons

Five of The Emperors sons are traitors

The Emperor's sons are part of Mankind

The Emperor's loyal sons answer to the Emperor

The Emperor's disloyal sons are enemies of the Emperor

All Humans must serve The Emperor, for he is their leader
To Serve the Emperor is to Serve The Imperium

All Humans must obey The Emperor, for he is their ruler
To Serve the Emperor is to Obey his Loyal Sons and Appointees

All Humans must aid other humans in serving the Emperor

All Humans must protect The Emperor because he is sovereign above all

All Humans must fight for and die for The Emperor
It is Mankind's greatest calling, whether in war or domestic service.

The Emperor Protects Mankind, and will not fail to do so.

The Emperor Protects Mankind from Material Dangers

I believe The Emperor will lead all mankind to their birthright
If a human tells me to disobey the Emperor, i will not obey

If a human tells me to not serve the Emperor, i will not serve

If a human tells me to not follow the Emperor, i will not follow.

If a human tells me not to die for the Emperor, i will not die

If a human tells me not to kill for the Emperor, i will kill

The Immaterial is a not real place that exists

The Immaterial is filled with Immaterial Beings

The Immaterial realm follows Immaterial rules

My Thoughts and Beliefs shape the Immaterial Realm.

I believe The Emperor protects mankind from Immaterial Enemies

The Immateria has "gods"' who dwell there

These gods are not Gods

There are no Gods in the Immateria, only gods

The Emperor is not a god nor a God

The Immateria has gods called The Ruinous Powers

The Ruinous Powers are not Gods

Mutanda is a Ruinous Power that claims magic and change

Morta is a Ruinous Power that claims disease and stagnation

Hedonis is a Ruinous Power that claims pleasure and perfection

Caedes is a Ruinous Power that claims bloodshed and murder

Indivisis is a Ruinous Power that claims all these

Any god declared by The Imperium to be a Ruinous Power is a Ruinous power.

I will not serve any Ruinous Power, because they do not protect man

I will not obey any Ruinous Power, because they are not worthy of obedience

I will obey the Emperor before I obey any god.
If a god tells me to disobey the Emperor, i will not obey him

If a god tells me to not serve the Emperor, i will not serve him

If a god tells me to not follow the Emperor, i will not follow them.

If a god tells me not to die for the Emperor, i will not die for them

If a god tells me not to kill for the Emperor, i will report

A Human will not serve, obey, follow, kill for, or die for a Xenos god

Demons serve the Ruinous Powers
I will not obey, serve, or follow Alpharius or any demon who follows Mutanda

I will not obey, serve, or follow Angron or any demon who follows Morta

I will not obey, serve, or follow Perturabo or any demon who follows Hedonis

I will not obey, serve, or follow Mortarion or any demon who follows Caedes

I will not obey, serve, or follow Lorgar or any demon who follows Indivisis

Daemons are immaterial beings that serve the immaterial powers
If a daemon tells me to disobey the Emperor, I will not obey him

If a daemon tells me to not serve the Emperor, I will not serve him

If a daemon tells me to not follow the Emperor, I will not follow them.

If a daemon tells me not to die for the Emperor, i will not die for them

If a daemon tells me not to kill for the Emperor, i will report them

A Human will not serve, obey, follow, kill for, or die for a Daemon of a Xenos god

Lorgar's Imperial Cult

The Imperial Cult, officially branded The Lorgarism Cult, was declared heretical to "New Imperial Truth." All those who followed it were given a year to register themselves, publicly renounce the teachings, profess the New Imperial Truth, and submit to inspection. Those who refused were hunted down and put to death. The Aurelian, Promethean, and even "Mechanicus Cult" took advantage of the situation, convincing many on the Imperial Cult to switch to their faith. Copies of The Lectitio Divinitatus and other symbols were burned.

Religion

Determining that the continued existence of Religion was tabled until The Emperor was well, for the sake of both monitoring religion as well as gaining more support and stability The Primarchs set up avenues for limited practice of religion.

The different religions of the Imperium were permitted a single High Lord, the "Ministorum Fidelarum" who would address the concerns of those who practiced a belief.

Chaos after The Great Treachery

Fate of Lorgar

Fate of Angron

Fate of Mortarion

Fate of Corax

Fate of Perturabo

Codex Astartes

If the Imperium post LL gets divided into Primarch-run Fiefdoms, the Softer form of the Codex Astartes could act similar to Imperial "Feds" or "Catholic Holy Orders:" orders with a specific purpose that operate above and outside the Feudal Segmentums run by Primarchs. The Chapters have significant Autonomy and officially answer only to the Emperor. In Practice, however, Jaghatai Khan acts as overseer of all Astartes Chapters.

Creation of The Codex Astartes

The first writings that would eventually become the Codex Astartes were composed by Rouboute Gulliman during his last days on Maccragge. Alone in an empty planet, the Thirteenth son began writing down his thoughts about each individual legions, its greatest strengths and its greatest weaknesses. He also mused about the ramifications of "The Great Treachery" (The Lorgar Letdown), and its impact on the Imperium. It was here that he called for legions to be broken up into individual chapters, with the remaining Primarchs leading their sons by example rather than by force. This he argued, would not only ensure that further treacheries would not happen again, but allow the Astartes to redeem themselves to the greater Imperium.

The break up of the chapters, in Gulliman's mind, was needed to correct the rising indifference he noticed in both his and other legions. By shifting the Astartes as protectors of individual planets, they would begin to see the imperium for its citizens and culture rather than as an abstract notion. The Collected writings of the Codex were smuggled out of Maccragge by Nathaniel Garro, who along with other loyalists was betrayed by Mortarion and Kor Phaeron. Roboute Gulliman died in Kor Phaeron's ritual, in which Maccragge was consecrated to the dark gods and the corpses of the multitude of dead heros were possessed by the demons of the Ruinous powers. These beings eventually tortured and killed Roboute, but not before he helped Nathaniel Garro and the remaining Loyalist Death Gaurd and Word Bearers to escape. The Codex Astartes was compiled and authored by Jaghatai Khan (the nomad prince), who took on the notes and writings of his friend Roboute Gulliman (the institutionalist) as a way to preserve the relations between Ultramar and the Greater Imperium. The realm of Ultramar was still spiritually and physically scarred by the Scouring of Maccragge and the Primarch treachery. Between bearing the brunt of the LL, and the misinformation campaigns of Alpharius (claiming that The Imperium ordered Gulliman killed and maccragge destroyed), Ultramar was suspicious of returning to the Greater Imperium at large. Khan, feeling guilty about the death of his friend, and how his Legion was spared most of the losses that befell his brothers, saw this as a way to make amends. Because the book was co-written, Rouboute's concerns about legions going traitor are tempered by Khan's nomadic experience with settler decadence and horde fragmentation. The result is a pseudo-united "Paralegionary" Force. The Khan willingly cedes control of two thirds of his Legion to be broken up into chapters, and the now Rogue Ultramarines agree to do the same. These Chapters are scattered throughout the galaxy. They can come at the request of The Primarchs (or other Imperial or Ultramar governors), but they ultimately answer to no one but The Emperor. Certain Primarchs (Magnus, Fulgrim, Corax, Vulcan) could have these Free Chapters help shore up the dwindling defenses of their territories. It also gives the Emperor a little bit more direct control over regions, (cant be too careful...). Eventually Primarchs like Rogal could grudgingly see the wisdom in this and donate chapters to fortify around the eye of terror. One of Khan's Stormseer successor chapters eventually becomes "The Grey Knights," etc. Perhaps too other Primarchs allow for some of their sons to form chapters according to the Khan-Gulliman Codex. The Blood Ravens could be an example of one such. Additionally, since both RG and JK have the most stable Geneseed (besides Rogal), and other legions would be disproportionately affected by the "Lorgar Letdown," the splitting of these two chapters would be seen less as a break up, and more of a "flowering" since the Khan would expect their successor chapters to act like Nomadic Bands that split off to form their own vibrant tribe. While Gulliman and Khan are technically no longer incharge of any of their now emancipated sons, they still have significant authority over The Codex itself, and any changes and revisions made.

Composition of The Codex Astartes

The Codex Astartes in total is a mighty lengthy Collection of Tomes. The Entire "Codex" takes up several bookshelves. Very few chapters have entire collections of the work and even fewer have read it in its entirety. So much so that their is an entire organization in Ultramar called the "Legatus Codices" (Codex Lawyers) who specialize in advising chapters on applying the codex as well as mediating chapter disputes.

The actual name for the Codex Astartes is: Illisimus Corpus Codices et Lectitiae et Tactici et Regulae pro Legio Imperii Paci Velloque or "The Great Body of Codes, Laws, Tactics, and Regulations for The Imperium's Legions during Peace and War."

Most chapters carry an abridged version of the codex, containing the relevant sections and indexes and regulae for their chapter's mission statement. Individual Astartes often have an even further abridged version, which mostly contains the sections relating to the individual behavior of a Space Marine. Each Abridged version of the Codex becomes its own book, as each abriged codex usually consists of pages worth of commentary and notes by the leaders of the chapter.

Codex Sections

The Corpus is divided into 4 parts.

Codex Velladucti

"The Book of War-waging"

The Book of Tactics and Generalship. This section consists mostly of the Work of Roboute Gulliman, but also features notable sections from Horus. Magnus, Fulgrim, and Khan also have made some contributions.
Contains guidelines for proper military tactics, effective strategies, guidelines on management of supplylines, and other things that would be useful guidelines for a chapter or company to use the codex astartes.
Includes advice and strategic guidelines for Joint Chapter and Joint Legion missions, as well as guidelines on Utilizing Imperial Gaurd divisions in joint missions.
It also includes analysis of major battles of the Great Crusade, with commentaries by the Primarchs who led them.

Codex Chronopacis

"The Book of Peace-Time"

Provides Guidelines for managing the chapter when a Space Marine Chapter and legion is not at war.
It offers advise on training schedules, fortress maintenance, managing Astarte morale and discipline, and other chapter management.
Codex Chronopacis is probably one of the Few Sections in which Vulkan makes hefty contributions on advising Astartes-Civilian relations, and the ways in which the space marine legion can contribute to the well-being of their subjects.

Codex Astartes

"The Book of The Soldier"

Perhaps the most famous book, and the one that nearly every Space Marine has read.

So much so, that This particular Section has become a Metonym for the entire Corpus, despite being the smallest section.

The Codex Astartes contains rules and guidelines for the behavior of the Adeptus Astartes on a personal level.
Behavior towards superiors, subordinates, Astartes of different chapters, as well as with Military and civilians are all covered here.
The Codex Astartes also provides guidelines on warding oneself against the forces of chaos and identifying signs of corruption.

This section was written primarily by Magnus the Red. However Leman Russ has some rather impassioned contributions as well.

Appendix Astartes

Contains rules and guidelines for the creation of new Space Marine Chapters
The Different Indexes and Regulae are located here.

Codex Regulae (Apochryphal): The "Standard Code" or "The Code of The Legions"

An additional Section composed by Horus
Dismissively called "Codex Nebulae" (The Wishy-Washy or Irrelevant Code), by Astartes Chapters and most Jura Codice.
Codex Regulae offers advice on the management of legions.
However, because most Legions are still led by their Primarch (who usually have their own ideas), the Codex is for the most part ignored.
Very few Legions or Chapters include this in their codexes.

The "Codex Astartes" as usually carried by individual space marines usually consists of:

Major selections from "The Codex Astartes"
Heavily curated selections from Codex Chronopacis regarding individual behavior and dispute management

Selections usually selected based on the Position of the Astartes as well as the Chapter Master's preference.

Heavily curated selections from Codex Velladucti

Usually selected based on the leadership of the chapter based on tactical preferences.

The Relevent Index and Regulae pertaining to the chapter.

Rules for Post First Founding Chapters

The Codex provides the provisions under which a group of Astartes can apply for "Chaptership." Should an aspiring chapter-master wish to create an independent chapter, he must meet the following provisions:

Permission from your Primarch (or Legionary Commander)
Sponsorship from at least 10 other Chapter Masters,
Endorsement of good character by no less than three of your fellow legionaries of equal or greater status,
An endorsement of gene-seed health by the Ordo Biologius.
Have strength of no less than 150 Astartes, but no greater than 500
Among these 150, no less than 10 Librarians and 10 Apothecaries
Other requirements based on the Index upon which your chapter is founded under (those founded under Regula Magnus for instance, have additional regulations placed on Psykers)

If all 6 of these provisions are met, then the Rules and Chapter can be approved by a Majority of The High Lords of Terra and the Approval of 3 Ultramar Princes (Emperor can Veto) If any of these provisions are lacking, then either the Emperor's approval or a Unanimous Vote of The High Lords is required.

Index Astartes and Regula Astartes

While Gulliman and Khan wrote the entire book together, they also provided their own sections or "indexes" that they wrote independently. An applying chapter must apply to be under one of these rules, and will be subject to the regulations of the chapter they are headed under. Sections are Numbered in order of their creation

Section 1: Index Aurellian or "The Rule of Gulliman"

Index Aurellian requires provisions relating to planetary administration. Those under the Rule of Gulliman are expected to live up to Gulliman's vision of Statesmen Astartes and have mastery of the diplomatic and administrative arts as well as military matters. Index Gulliman also has additional requirements regarding Chapter Composition and Fortress Monasteries.

Section 2: Index Chorgoris: or "The Rule of Khan"

Index Chorgoris provides guidelines on nomadic or spaceborne chapters. It is less interested in composition and focuses more on clear lines of succession, Chivalric rules regarding behavior between fellow astartes and non-astartes, and managing Intra-chapter disputes. The Rule of Khan is considered to be less stringent on the Chapter as a whole, but places more of the rules and liability on individual Astartes.

Eventually Other Primarchs (with the permission of Khan/Ultramarines Chaptermaster) added their own Indexes (Shown in order of their creation)

Section 3: Index Phoenician: or "The Rule of Fulgrim"

Fulgrim's Rule places additional requirements on Artificers and Apothecaries. Astartes under the Rule of Fulgrim are also expected to be masters of Personal Combat. Those under Fulgrim's rule are expected to be both expert fighters and expert craftsmen. Curiously there are no Emperor's Children Successor chapters under the "Fulgrim's Rule." Due to the weakness of The Emperor's Children, they could never afford to donate. Instead the followers of The Rule of Fulgrim are almost exclusively Iron Hands Successor Chapters. Index Phoenician was written by Fulgrim at the personal request of Ferrus Manus, who had several companies request their Genefather's permission to form Chapters.

Section 4: Index Praetorian: or "The Rule of Dorn"

The Rule of Dorn has a few stipulations for personal behavior or for chapter management. The ultimate focus of Index Praetorian is Seigecraft and Engineering. A chapter under Index Praetorian is rigorously disciplined in the arts of engineering, warfare, architecture, and defensive tactics.

Additionally, there are certain "sub indexes" or Regulae, which while not significant enough in their divergence to be considered its own chapter, provides additional rules for further specialization of space marine chapters.

Section 2(a) Regula Mortis (Rule of Garro)

Special section of rules for loyalist sons of traitor legions. Mostly follows Index Chorgoris, but with guidelines pertaining to managing a Chapter composed of multiple Genefathers, as well as additional rules for safegaurding against corruption.

Section 1(a) Regula Viatorris (Rule of The Webway)

A work of headache inducing compromise, and endless negotiations between Jaghatai Khan, Magnus, and The Representatives of Craft World Biel-Tan. Astartes founded under this codex were the first Space Marines to be permitted to operate in the Webway, and as such shoulder their crippling regulations with pride and distinction. In addition to stringent regulations regarding chapter organization, organizational hierarchy, and restricted activities, chapters in the Rule of The Webway must also accept the sponsorship of an individual craftworld, and are required to answer to them regarding activities in the web way.

Section 1(b) Regula Prosperae (Rule of Magnus)

Heavily Modified variation of Index Aurelian, the Regula Magni adds additional qualifications for Librarians, and tactics for Librarian heavy combat.

Section 2(a) Regula Tempestus The Rule of Warp

Created to help in the creation of chapters who operate near the Eye of Terror, and as such have more encounters with Warp Storms and Demonic incursions.

Section 3(a) Regula Tyrranis (The Rule of Tyrannids)

For Tyranid-busting chapters, augments Index Chorgoris with its emphasis on adaptability, with Dorn's experience and resilience enshrined in Index Praetorean. Exceptional at adapting to an ever adapting foe.

Section 2(b) Regula Skythiae (Rule of The Nomad)

The Mellennium long ambition of the Khan realized through the benignly negligent sponsorship of Commoragh. Created in M38, the Rule of The Nomad offers significantly more flexibility than the bureaucratically asphyxiated Regula Viatorres Astartes. In exchange for limitations on operations inthe webway, they have greater flexibility travelling through the webway, making these Astartes chapters the ultimate force for rapid response and deployment throughout the Imperium with little Eldar interference.

Chapter Foundings

First Founding

The First Founding was made entirely of White Scars and Ultramarines. The Creation of the Free Chapters was seen as the first step towards reconciliation between Ultramar and The Greater Imperium.

First Founding Chapters:

Novamarines
Genesis Chapter
Macragge's Honnor
Rampagers
Mantis Warriors
Marines Errant
Storm Lords
Sons of Gulliman
Inceptors
Black Counsels

Second Founding (ie The Penitential Founding)

While Jaghatai and Gulliman had created the Codex Astartes with the Loyalist fragments in mind, it was a very controversial position and Jaghatai didn't want to jeopardize his carefully hammered out reintegration of Ultramar with Traitor Chapters. Instead, Jaghatai used his own legion "The White Scars" as a sort of Parole Office for Wayward Astartes, helping to mitigate concerns about their reintegration by sending them out to demonstrate their loyalty to the Imperium under his Supervision. When Jaghatai felt the time was right, he used Nathaniel Garro, well-liked on Ultramar being the last Astarte to see Roboute Gulliman alive and the protector of The Primarch's last writings as the Posterboy for his "Second Founding." Garro was granted permission to found his own Chapter made up of Former Death Gaurd loyalists, and permission to recruit new astartes and carry one the Death Gaurd Geneseed. With the success of Garro's "Dusk Raiders" Soon other chapters were able to form their own loyalist chapters under "The Rule of Garro." Unlike in Vanillahammer, these chapters are aware of their gene-father's treachery and have built themselves around continuing their Emperor-made purpose. Second Founding Chapters:

"Oathkeepers"

Fmr Death Gaurd, formed from Nathaniel Garro

"The Charcodons"

Fmr Night Lords

"Silver Skulls"

Fmr Iron Warriors

"Consumed"

Fmr World Eaters

Space Wolves

Fmr Space Wolves (Vanilla Wolf Brothers), the few who survived the madness. Their founding was unique in that their request to form a Chapter was rejected by non-other than Leman Russ himself. Leman, who was so disgusted with himself and his Legion, did not want any part of his legion to carry forward. They went to the High Lords of Terra and the Emperor himself pleading for the chance to serve the Emperor once again, and permission for the Name "Space Wolves" to die an honorable death. Additionally, they went to Magnus to beg for him to intercede on their behalf, in exchange for service. Magnus was impressed by their gall, and agreed to help them overrule Russ's refusal. The war cry of the new Space Wolves is "Remember Prospero." They go through the galaxy hunting their former brothers, but try to stand clear of their furious father.

Fourth Founding or "The Phoenecian Founding"

The Fourth Founding consisted of a donation of Iron Hands. The Iron Hands were swelling with new ranks and many of the tensions between Ferrus Manus and his Augmentation-obsessed sons was bubbling to the surface. Both were affecting the efficiency of the Legions. Seeing the behavior and capabilities of other legions like The Thousand Sons, Emperors Children, Ultramarines, and Salamanders; Ferrus Manus was concerned that his obsession with brute strength and refinement of flesh was stifling the creativity and capabilities of his Astartes. In the interest of seeing his Sons thrive and adapt, Ferrus Manus commissioned his friend Fulgrim to design a set of rules to allow his successor chapters to reach their full potential. In many ways the Successor chapters of the Fourth (and future Iron Hands) Founding are unique in their dual heritage, taking on traits of both Primarchs

Fifth Founding or "The Corvidae Founding"

The Fifth founding came about as a result of a the First Black Crusade, when several legions (the Iron Hands in particular) learned the hard way how painfully ill-equipped they were for war against demonic forces. While orders like The Grey Knights did exist, they were small, and the Inquisition's "Ordo Malleus" was distrusted by most, if not all Space Marine Legions. Thus it was Magnus The Red's Turn to Donate, and as Such Composed The Regula Prosperae, providing for new Psyker-heavy Chapters, and ways to guard them against Chaos. Note that very few Thousand Sons formed successor chapters due to issues with the Primarch's geneseed. Until the development of Primaris the Regula Founding was mostly composed of other chapters (White Scars in particular).

Fifth Founding Chapters

The Corvidae

One of the few donated by Magnus the Red as one of The First of the new Mystic Chapters

The Exorcists
The Pleasure-Seekers

Chapter and Ironic name provided by Fulgrim, this Chapter excels in fighting against the Servants of Slaanesh

The Emperor's Path

White Scars Successor, specializes in fighting against Tzeentch

The Emperor's Peace

Focuses on The Servant's of Khorne,

The Wolf Hounds

Another Anti-Khorne Chapter, trained by Leman Russ

The Apothacaries

Iron Hands Successors, specialize in killing Demons of Nurgle.

Espandor's Faithful

General Anti-Demon Ultramarine Successors

Memory of Maccragge

Ultramarine Successor, expert Nurgle Killers.

Sixth Founding or "The Dornian Founding"

Called The Dornian Founding by those not in Proximity to Rogal Dorn, was made up of the deserters of The Imperial Fists Legion. Dorn's Legion, angry that Dorn had abandoned crusading for obsession with fortifications requested that part of the legion break off and serve Horus's plans. Dorn consented on the condition that he would allow them to break off if they agreed to follow The (maligned by Fists) Codex Astartes. Unfortunately they Called his bluff. Sixth Founding Chapters

The Emperor's Champions

Founded by None other than Rogal's Former Champion, Sigismund, This chapter is unique among the other Imperial Fist Chapters in that it is one of the Few that does not use "Index Praetor," Instead preferring the Rules set out by The Khan enshrined in Index Chorgoris.

The Crimson Fists
The Celestial Lions
The Imperial Fists
Fists Exemplar
Excoriators
Iron Knights
Astral Knights
Soul Drinkers

In this universe a Dorn Successor chapter that follows the Rule of Magnus

Legione Astartes

Unlike the "Codex Astares" the Legione Astartes are those Space Marines who have remained organized under organization similar to that of The Great Crusade. They are still led by their Primarch, though the burden of Administration often means that actual leadership of the Legion is managed by their First Captain.

All of these legions are considered to be at at least half-strength. Some of these legions may also have donated Space Marines to form Free Chapters. Those Chapters who follow "The Codex Astartes" are not considered to be part of the Legion, though they often maintain close ties.

Legio I - The Dark Angels

Despite losing over half of his numbers by Luther's Treachery, The Lion has begun aggressively rebuilding his legion, returning to pre-great crusade strength by M33. When they are not called by Horus, the 1^st Legion aids their Father in governing the Segmentum Obscura, as such they have become the Frontline in the Imperium's defense against Chaos.

Legio V - The White Scars

Despite donating two-thirds of His Legion to The Codex Astartes following the Great Treachery, Jaghatai Khan has restored his legion back to Great Crusade strength. Such successful buildup has created some controversy among the other Legions since, given that Khan is also "Book-keeper" of The Codex Chapters, Jaghatai Khan effectively governs two legions. Those who defend the Khan usually point out that The Khan's role over the Codex Astartes is supervisory not commanding. In additions, because the Codex is supposed to serve the Imperium's collective defense, its growing strength is not only good, but a necessity as the greater strength of these chapters frees up the Legions for Horus' Crusades.

Legio VIII - The Night Lords

The Night Lords accompany their Primarch in putting down revolts. Though somewhat tempered by recent events, those who mistake Konrad's newfound mercy for weakness will be brutally disappointed.

Legio IX - The Blood Angels

TBA

Legio X - The Iron Hands

The Largest legion besides' Horus, The Iron Hands of Ferrus Manus have been The Warmaster's most valuable asset in any crusade. The Iron Hands has additionally offered several of its sons as Free Chapters under the Codex Astartes, allowing those who disagreed with their Father's emphasis on purity of flesh to persue their diverging opinions.

Legio XVI - The Luna Wolves

Formerly The Sons of Horus, Horus Lupercal reverted back to The Legion's origional name following the Treachery of Horus Aximand, as well as in memory of the countless dead on Luna. Horus' Legion is undoubtedly the legion whose numbers fluctuate the most, as it is usually the Spearhead of any Crusade led by the Warmaster.

Legio XVIII - The Salamanders

Vulkan's Legion is undoubtedly the smallest due to the problems with his geneseed. However, his legion is also the most well equipped of Any Legion, and as such are usually used for any special forces mission.

Retired Legions

These legions have been considered dismantled due to a lack of primarch leadership, or due to The Legion being under Half-Strength. Those space marines that were once part of this legion are now independent Chapters under The Codex Astartes.

Its important to note that both The 3^rd and the 15^th were never officially dismantled. However between the complete depopulation of both legions by The Great Treachery as well as complications with The Geneseed of both Primarchs, The Emperor's Children and The Thousand Sons are each relieved of obligations to contribute to campaigns until they can bring their legions to at least half-strength. Those III and XV astartes that do exist are little more than a personal guard for their primarchs.

Legio III - The Emperor's Children

Left with only a handful of Astartes after Mortarion's Desolation of Chemos, Fulgrim has little more than a handful of Apothecaries and Fulgrim himself. Being the Perfectionist he is, Fulgrim has refused to create a new legion until all issues with his geneseed are resolved.So far he has only been able to create less than 20 Astartes, though Fmr Mechanicus turned Aurelian Mechanicus Liege, Bellisarius Cawl's work seems promising. Until that time, Fulgrim has contented himself with his work on restoring Terra's Ecology, as well as being a "Step-Father" to the Free Chapters of The Iron Hands.

Legio VI - The Space Wolves

Enraged and Ashamed that most of his legion fell to chaos and transformed into horrid beasts, Leman Russ has proclaimed that The VI Legion to be permanently dissolved, and The Number VI to be retired alongside of II and XVIII. Those remaining members of the legion (mostly those who came from Terra), were ordered by Russ to become Free Chapters under the Codex Astartes.

Legio VII - The Imperial Fists

Enraged that so many of his sons deserted him, Rogal Dorn requested the Imperial Fists be disolved. Despite now having almost full legion Strength, Rogal's Loyal Son are called "The Hands of Dorn" and serve in helping to maintain the Segmentum Tempestus' mighty fortresses.

Legio XIII - The Ultramarines

Devastated by The Great Treachery, without a primarch, and with their Homeland now an Independent realm, The XIII Legion has been considered Dismantled, with all remaining Sons of Gulliman either divided into Free Chapters under The Codex Astartes, or as armies under the Aurelian Cult.

While all other the Devastated Legions are entirely depopulated, The Thirteenth Legion is, in some ways, stronger than ever. In the 41st Mellinium there are nearly twice as many Sons of Gulliman than there were during the great Crusade. In fact the Realm of Ultramar, and many of the Ultramarine Astartes were confident they could rebuild the legion, despite such heavy casualties. However, Khan and Horus feared the idea of having a stable space marine legion with loyalties split between Ultramar and The Greater Imperium, not to mention their newfound devotion to Their New Deities. Using the recovered last writings of Roboute Gulliman on Ultramar, Khan and Horus split The Ultramarines according to the Codex Astartes, with each chapter operating independently with oversight from The Khan. The XIII Legion is considered to be formally dissolved, and should the Ultramarines join in the Campaigns of the Warmaster, they will do so as auxilary chapters to the other Legions.

Legio XV - The Thousand Sons

Like his former rival Leman Russ, Magnus the Red has been left without a legion. So far attempts to rebuild it have been a failure due to corruptions in the geneseed. Magnus retains hope that his Legion will one day rebuild, but for now focuses his efforts helping his Father recover.

Non-Astartes Forces

Deprived of several legions, the Imperium turned to their non-transhuman subjects to pick help supply the Warmaster's forces.

Imperium Auxillia

It was decided that since the Imperial Legions would no longer be sufficient for Crusades, The Primarchs decided to take what was previously The defensive-only Imperial Gaurd, and incorporate them into The Military Machine of the Empire. The Imperial Auxillia, as they are now called, are recruted throughout the Imperium and serve The Warmaster to augment the Astartes.

Segmentum Gaurd

The Segmentum Gaurd have subsumed the Defensive roles previously held by the Imperial Gaurd. Each Segmentum Gaurd is commissioned and led by the Primarch who governs that particular segmentum, and as such serves the Unique needs of the Region.

Segmentum Obscura

Aiding the Lion in his defense of the Segmentum, the Militaries of the Segmentum Obscurus aid in defending the Imperium's frontline against the Eye of Terror. They are extrodinarily well disciplined and see the unspeakable horrors of the warp as little more than Target practice.

The Cadian Auditores: Network of spies on the planet at the front of the Eye of Terror, these Troops aid the Lion in observing the movements of the Ruinous Powers

The Cadian Gaurd: Elite Troops who are used to the unspeakable, the Cadian Gaurd pulls from the Entire segmentum and experts in defensive combat.

The Vostroyan Levboez: In gratitude for their aid in the Great Treachery, the Lion has made the Vostroyans into his personal gaurd. They travel with the Lion's most elite angels and aid in rapid attacks against the Enemy.

Segmentum Tempestus

Under the Strict hand of Rogal Dorn, the Segmentum Gaurd spends their life defending their fortress homelands.

The Haputkorps of Krieg: Following a bitter revolt against Dorn's Governance, those who remained have dedicated themselves to repay for the treachery of their brothers. Becoming more Masochistic than even Dorn himself, The Haputkorps are usaually the first to die and defend the Many trenches and killzones of The Segmentum Tempestus.

The Tempestus Castellans: Elite Force made to defend the Inner Sanctums of the Fortress Tempestus, these men are the ones who are preparing for whatever could possibly penetrate the formidable outer defenses of The Segmentum. They are also well trained reconissance teams and are used to support the Outerrelam defenses at the end of a scope.

Ultramar Forces

An Autonomous Dominion of The Imperium, the Lords of Ultramar are expected to provide the Imperium with Forces under the Command of The Warmaster.

Imperial Dragoons

The "Ultramaree Dragoons" is the name of the Armies tributed to The Imperium to aid in its missions. It is led by The Maquis, who is "elected" from among the many Noble Lords of Ultramar. The position functions as a system of Ostracism, and usually promising and Ambitious nobles are appointed to Kyrios as a way to exile them from Ultramar Politics.

The Numbers Ultramar is expected to provide is based upon Census details of the Realm. The Realm then passes the burden onto each planet of the Ultramar system. Each planet being expected to supply either a quota of men. With most of the upper nobility focused on inter Ultramari politics, the armies themselves are usually a mixture of minor nobility combined with rejected Ultramarine scouts, as well as Ultramar Peasantry looking to escape their station. The Companions also have a disproportionate amount of women, as it is well known by many ambitious women of low station that the Eutenite orders regularly recruit from the Hetaratoi.

Maccragge's Memorial Fleet

Far more useful to the Imperium than the Hetaratoi, is the Memorial Fleet. In honnor of the Space Marine Fleet that was lost and the Migrant Fleet that fled Maccragge. With Ships provided by the Industrial world of Konor, and marines and pilots are provided by the Macragge nomads. Piloted and manned by voidborn, augmented by faith in The Queen Mother, and supported by the finest ships of Ultramar's industrial world, The Memorial Fleet has become an indispensable aid in the Fight against chaos, with their fleets destroying incursions before they even reach orbit.

Mechanicum Forces

Despite being free from military obligations, The Adeptus Mechanicus has its own forces, which it uses to maintain the aims of the Mechanicus.

Imperium Government post-Treachery

Due to their Father’s Illness, The Remaining Loyalist Primarchs have taken on the burden of imperium. Some of the Primarchs have remained in charge of The Imperium-at-Large, while others have taken over individual Segmenti. Horus has remained warmaster, and at his call, the Primarchs must gather their forces for “The Golden Crusade.”

Triumviratus Homines Posterite

Just as, if not more important than the government of Mankind is the Triumvirate For the Future of Man. The Triumvirate safegaurds the health and well-being of the Emperor of Mankind and work towards his eventual recovery. The Maintenance of the Astronomicon and the continuous work of the Webway Gate also fall under the Triumvirate's jurisdiction but both are a distant second in importance to their primary concern.

The Triumvirates duty above all else is to aid the Emperor in his recovery and ensure that there are no threats that impede that. When the Triumvirate makes a decision it overrides all other authority in the Imperium including the Emperor (until he recovers).

The Triumvirate consists of Three heads, each of whom represent a different aspect of the Emperor's health and well-being. These men have no aditional titles, their name and membership in the Most exclusive position in the Galaxy is sufficient.

Constantine Valdor: Oversees The Emperor's security from physical threats and dangers.
Fulgrim: Oversees the Emperor's recovery, and ensures that he is protected from medical and mental threats
Magnus: Oversees protection of The Emperor from Spiritual and Supernatural threats

In theory each member of the Triumvirate has absolute authority over their particular dimension of the emperor's well-being. In practice the overlap between those domains results in two of the members bickering with each other until the third (Most often Fulgrim) can find a compromise between the two.

Meeting of The Triumvirate

When the Triumvirate meets, they do so in a secret room in the Imperial Palace. This room is warded off by both Magnus and The Emperor to prevent any and all interference and knowledge of its location.

Additionally, when entering the Triumvirate powerful and secret technology is used so that the Memories of all those who enter the sanctorum have no recollection of the event or what they have learned.
After the Triumvirate adjurns all members will have no knowledge of what transpired there, instead each having a single document that shows the decision made.

Observation Roles

On occasion, the Council has brought in one or more of these individuals to sit in on triumvirate meetings. Their role is always advisory, and apart from their consultation they have no influence in the descision making process. In fact, they are not even allowed to be present during the decision making process.

The Emperor of Mankind

Needless to say the Emperor's own opinion about both his capabilities, as well as his knowledge is welcome.
per his own agreement, he understands that his current role is an advisory one, and out of courtesy will leave when the Triumvirate makes its decision.

Sanguinius

As warmaster and the visible head of State of the Imperium, Sanguinius has also been consulted due to his boots-on-the-ground knowledge of the Imperium's current affairs.
As the triumvirate, they are also well aware of the Red Thirst

Eldrad

Eldrad is the Imperium's preferred representative of the Eldari, and as such will occasionally be consulted.

Fabricator General

As head of all Forgeworlds and an idicator of the Imperium's scientific capabilities, The Fabricator general has occasionally stood before the Triumvirate on matters of vulnerabilities as well as possible technological issues.

The Aurelian

Magnus and Fulgrim's deified Brother occasionally makes an appearance, given his rather unique perspective on the current on-goings of the Warp.
The Aurelian also is often aware of spiritual sicknesses and vulnerabilities in the Imperium that most would not notice until it is too late.
It was through The Aurelian, for instance that The Triumvirate learned about Corax's fall to Malal, as well as rumblings about the Black Crusade.
Because they can regularly consult with The Aurelian, the Council has never felt any need to speak with the Spiritual Lieges themselves. Sidestepping the entire church

Asdrubal Vect

The High Lord Of Commoragh is seen as an asset when the Council needs of the Eldar's knowledge or capabilities without worrying about the actual eldar.
Though his fees are often exorbitant and suspicious, Vect's "Everything is for sale" mentality has been invaluable at times
Vect and Commoragh are also used when the Imperium needs to act in Webspace against or unbenowest to the rest of the eldar.

Vulkan

Often called on technical matters
Vulkan is seen as a more "neutral" choice given the inherent biases of Ferrus Manus and The Fabricator General
When a particular project needs to be created without the rest of the Imperium or galaxy knowing about it, Vulkan is called.

Lord Inquisitor

The Head of The Inquisition will on occasion be consulted for knowledge about a particular threat
The Lord Inquisitor will also be tasked with spcific actions on behalf of the Triumvirate, when recieving such a task they are performed with the Utmost Secrecy.

Legate to the Katholian Curia

The Katholians have a network of spies often greater than that of the Inquisition. Occasionally the Legate is called for sensitive work, usually regarding issues of potential corruption in the Inquisition.
The Katholian Legate is to The Lord Inquisitor what Vect is to Eldrad.

Rogal Dorn

Rogal's architectural insight can occasionally be called upon for highly secret projects.

Demon Primarchs

On rare occasion, the Triumvirate has dealt with the Demonic Primarchs, usually offering their aid in swerving the great game to the Imperium's advantage.
This development has only occured starting in M39, after consultation with their father and the Aurelian.
The most common of these consulted are Corvus Corax, the least common is Alpharius.
When said demons visit they do so usually with The Aurelian and several C'Tan era technologies present.

Terran Leadership

Several Primarchs have foresworn their own territory in order to serve the Imperium-At-Large. Because of this they are allowed to draw their recruits from the Entire Imperium. They are also still govern their homeworld, but they are mostly headquartered on Terra.

Constantine Valdor: Magisterium Maxima

As Captain-General of the Adeptus Custodes, Constantine Valdor was granted the title Magister Maxima, or ultimate controller by the Emperor himself, well before The Great Treachery. Origionally tentative to use his power over the primarchs and all government, that attitude changed following the disaster that unfolded following the treachery.

While the primarchs blamed Lorgar, the council of Nikea and the Imperial Truth, Valdor blamed the disastrous egos of the primarchs, as well as his own negligence. In Valdor's eyes, the inability of the Primarchs to put aside their own vanity for the good of the Imperium nearly cost humanity its future.

Post heresy, Constantine Valdor pushed back against the primarch's efforts to place Sanguinius as head of the imperium, instead using his own well established title to subjugate them to his oversight the imperium. Valdor views his job as a negative role, keeping all of the different leaders of the Imperium in check, especially the 12 Primadonas. Technically he and every single Custodes outrank the Primarchs, though they almost always use their authority through Valdor. In private amongst his fellow Custodes, he often refers to their Role as Adeptus Nutrices (Bureau of Wetnurses) and himself as Magister Maxima (Head Schoolmaster).

Constantine Valdor, alongside Fulgrim, and Magnus form the Triumveratus Homines Posteri (Triumvirate of The Future of Mankind), who oversee the recovery of The Emperor.

Horus: Legiarch

The Great Treachery had shaken Horus' faith in his capacity to lead. Like many of the Loyalist primarchs in the aftermath, Horus stepped down as his position of Warmaster. Despite this, he continues to coordinate the Imperium's forces as "The Commander of The Legions." Though he now takes orders from his brother Sanguinius and the rest of the council, Horus has retained his position somewhat. Under his new title, Horus ensures that the Legions are kept their best fighting strength, and are used to the best of their potential. His greatest weapon is his own legion “The Luna Wolves,” which serves as the spearhead in most offensives.

Sanguinius: The High Regent

Beloved by all, there was no other person who could shoulder the burdens of Empire. Sanguinius serves as the De facto Head of The Imperium with his father taking an advisory role while he recovers.

Sanguinius' acts on behalf of the Council of Regents. He shoulders the responsibilities of The Imperium admirably, though he notes with some disdain how eager his brother's were to shrug off their responsibilities onto him out of despair. The Regent has very little interest in actually managing the day to day affairs of the Imperium, usually leaving said management to the Segmentarchi, Fulgrim, and The Highlords of Terra. His main emphasis is instead on leading the Imperium's armies against the forces of chaos.

Jaghatai Khan: “The Book-Keeper”

Inheriting the Codex Astartes from Roboute Gulliman, Jaghatai Khan oversees the Chaptered Astartes as “Qitobuqa” (Chorgoran (ie Distorted Chagatai) for “Master of the Book”). Given the many varried and specialized roles that these Chapters have taken on. Jaghatai, (With The Lion) have taken on many of the duties that The Inquisition does in Vanilla Hammer.

Konrad Curze: “The Emperor's Executioner”

Following Leman Russ's Abdication: Konrad Curze and his Night Lords have assumed the role of eliminating The Enemies of The Emperor. While Sanguinius is referred to as "The Emperor's Fury" Curze is merely known as the more subdued term, "The Emperor's Disapproval." Such a banal name hides the true Silent rage and terror behind that name. It is as if to say "The Emperor disapproves of your existence, which is now forfit."

Konrad Curze also serves as the Council's liason to the Imperial inquisition, which he does with sadistic glee.

Ferrus Manus: Ministorum Physicalis

Originally offered to Vulkan, who declined in favor of governing the Segmentum Pacificus. Fulgrim and Ferrus Manus work together to create technology and equipment for the Imperium. Both Civilian and Military. Fulgrim’s focus being something of a “Surgeon General” for the Imperium while Ferrus Manus serves as the head engineer and liaison to the Adeptus Mechanicus.

Fulgrim: Ministorum Vitalis

A wide-reaching department, covering apothecaries, geneticists, and ecologists. Fulgrim was selected in the hopes that he could do for Terra what he had done for Chemos. When he is not undertaking grand terraforming and bio-engineering projects, Fulgrim traverses the Imperium trying to establish some modicum of health and safety standards. He often travels with his best friend and chief artificer Ferrus Manus, and between the two of them most engineering problems can be solved.

Magnus: Ministorum Arcanae

Magnus oversees the actions of all psykers. Both He, Constantine Valdor, and Fulgrim are responsible for the security and well being of The Emperor, with Valdor focusing on physical security, Magnus warding against supernatural threats, and Fulgrim ensuring the physical health and healing.

The Black Ships are headed by Magnus, which is partially used to maintain the golden throne, but is also in part to head an academy for psykers. Which young psyker goes where is ultimately his choice, and the descision often haunts him.

Magnus Aids The Khan in the organization of the Free Chapters, especially those whose focus is on anti-demonic forces.

Magnus, along with occasionally Konrad Curze, will take on the Golden Throne in order to aid their father in recovering.

Additionally, Magnus is supposedly working on improving and repairing the Webway gate, but already overwhelmed as it is, this task has been moving at a glacial pace.

Segmentum Primarchs

These Primarchs have taken to a Particular Segmentum of the Imperium, and govern it as their own Mini-Imperium, complete with their own Segmentum Gaurd. While still loyal to the Greater Imperium, these Primarchs are granted greater leeway in management of their territories so long as their territory remains defensible and provides tithes. Those organizations that operate under the Aegis of the Emperor (the Inquisition, the Astartes Chapters) also have significant authority within the region, and at times can overrule the Primarchs (though that is not encouraged).

El'Johnson: Segmentum Obscurus

The Closest to The Eye of Terror, only Magnus The Red was considered to be the most capable of protecting the Imperium’s most Warp-Susceptible region. However, Magnus was considered to be needed on Terra for both the Golden Throne, and For supervising the new order of Anti-Warp legions such as The Grey Knights (and later Corvidae founding Astartes).

The Next runner-up was Kurze, but while Fulgrim and Magnus loved their brother, and he was a stalwalt defender against the warp, no one trusted him with Leadership of civilians. The Next obvious choice only could be "The Lion." On the front line of any attack by Lorgar and The Ruinous Powers, El'Johnson has tailored his legions and his armies in defense against the Warp. His armies have both the highest number of blanks as well as the Highest number of Sanctioned Psykers. The Dark Angels scour the Segmentum for evidence of Corruption and The Fallen, and "The Knights of Calliban" (his Segmentum Army) aid in defending the planet from Demonic Attacks.

Dorn: Segmentum Tempestus

Taking the Segmentum Closest to Terra, Dorn has transformed the entire segmentum into a fortress, in the event that terra falls. No statues and no art is to be found in the Segmentum Tempestus, and yet no one can fail to see the Mark of The Master-Builder throughout the realm. Dorn Governs from what was once Inwit, but the planet has been rebuilt from the bedrock up into a labyrinthine fortress world thrice its original size. The Banal Name “Fort Inwit” does not do justice the the masterwork of fortifications that is at the center of an entire interplanetary realm of fortifications. Those travelling to The Segmentum cannot shake their sense of awe at dorn’s handiwork, while also shaking a sense of dread. “What sort of Enemy would need these fortifications?”

Vulkan: Segmentum Pacificus

The hardy and rebellious peoples of the Segmentum Pacificus need a Primarch both unwavering in his sense of justice, and caring in love of the people. No other person could fufil this role but Vulkan.

Horus: Terminus Segmentum

Not a Segmentum per say, but Territories reclaimed from the Forces of Chaos and Xenos are considered to be a part of the Terminus or Frontier Segmentum. These are officially under the Jurisdiction of the Warmaster, who often has little more than a Military Presence.

Non-Segmentum Regions

These regions are not governed by a Primarch, but instead are managed by human governments who are in Alliance with the Imperium.

Segmentum Solar

Segmentum Solar does not technically have a Primarch governor. As the Seat of the Imperium, Segmentum Solar is under the governorship of the Emperor himself and his chosen representatives (The High Lords of Terra). In practice however, Fulgrim and Sanguinius are heavily involved in managing the Segmentum Solar, and often circumvent the High Lords.

Mars and Forgeworlds

Holding to the Ancient Treaties established by The Emperor, the Adeptus Mechanicus maintains its autonomy in managing the Many Forgeworlds of the Imperium. They often butt heads with the also autonomous kingdom of Ultramar, as well as the Imperial Artificers for Scientific and Religious reasons (usually treated as the same thing).

Ultramar

Ultramar, following the Treaty of Chorgoris after the Great Treachery of Lorgar was recognized to be independent in its own affairs. The Realm of Ultramar still recognizes the Emperor as its Sovereign Lord, as well as the Father of their god The Aurelian. Half of Gulliman’s remaining legions were donated to the Codex Astartes, who serve the Imperium at large and answer only to the Emperor. Ultramar, according to the Treaty, answers only to the Emperor himself, but in practice usually works with Corvus Corax, Ultima Adeptus and Liaison to Ultramar, and Jaghatai Khan, the “Book-Keeper” and “The Master of Chapters.” Ultramar is governed as a collection of Feudal Kingdoms under the Suzerainty of Ultramarines Chapter Master.

The Five Hundred Worlds of Ultramar are De Jure "Independent" from the Imperium because of the events of the Lorgar Letdown (destruction of maccragge, warp-storms, suspicion of other primarchs), but in reality The Imperium exerts as much control over its "Ally" Ultramar as it does any distant realm of the Imperium. This is in no small part thanks to the Work of Jaghatai Khan, who took the Notes of His Buddy Rouboute for The Codex Astartes, and Christopher Tolkein'd them into The "Codex Astartes." Under the Codex Most of The White Scars, Orphaned Ultramarines, and Loyalists abandon their legions to act as independent chapters that would work in Ultramar and The Imperium, while still being personally loyal to the Emperor (not any Primarch or admin of Terra). In the 41st Millennium, Ultramar is Space Bretonia complete with A deified Tarasha Euten Serving as the Lady of The Lake (as well as Mary in Catholicism/Orthodoxy). Ultramar is covered with noble houses who religiously follow the Codex Astartes (as well as Gulliman's other Writings), and will go on quests for the "Great Mother's" Favor. This Universe's "The Black Templars" are called the "The Black Eutenites" who are essentially a Collection of Grail Knights and Knights Errant, who go Lorgar Hunting. The are "Black" because they Paint over their previous Chapter Insignia to denote their service exclusively to "The Queen Mother." The Capitol of Ultramar is now Espandor (Space Vatican), with Calth (Space Santiago) and a rebuilt Maccragge (Space Jerusalem) being Sites of Holy Pilgrimage. The Refugees of Maccragge have become a special nobility in Ultramar, with families taking the names of the Evacuation ships.

Religion

Lorgar's writing is aggressively purged by the Emperor and all of the Primarchs, but with it disappeared the primacy of The Imperial Truth. Unwilling to risk further civil war in the name of a Creed many of the Primarchs didn't even like in the first place, The Primarch led Imperium has shifted the Imperium's focus from aggressive atheism to secular toleration. The Ultramar Cult of The Aurelian, The Cult Mechanicus, and Promethean Cult all Step in to take the place of the condemned Imperial cult. The Imperium of Midhammer is a much more Tolerant place, with religious devotion not losing its head to violent fanaticism (mostly). Magna Terra still promotes the Imperial truth, but The Emperor grudgingly tolerates the rise of religion. The Lorgar Letdown convincing both him and the Primarchs that pretending Chaos does not exist, and ignoring mankind's need for things to believe in is probably a bad idea.

The Aurelian Cult

The "Aurelian Cult" alongside Vulkan's Promethean Cult and Cult Mechanicus are the major three accepted religions in the Imperium. The Aurellian Cult in particular serves as the substitute for The Imperial Cult of Vanillahammer. As the few remaining Catholians and Kresti are quick to point out, The Religion's similarity to Trinitarianism is completely superficial. Instead, it is closer to a Triad of Ancient Rome (Jupiter, Mars, Venus). The Emperor (The Father), Gulliman (The Son), and Tarasha Euten (The Holy Spirit/Blessed Mother) form the Holy Triad of Dieties, with the Father being Supreme over the Son and Mother, but is definitely not a God. The Return of the Avenging Son is considered a sign of the End Times, when it is prophesied that The Avenging Son will return to Earth to Slay Lorgar and -Reuniting with his father and brothers- shall slay the Ruinous Powers.

Founded in Ultramar, the Aurelian Cult Worships Roboute Gulliman and The God-Emperor. It serves as this timeline's main replacement for the Ecclesiarchy. The Cult places great emphasis on the Emulation of Roboute Gulliman and his writings for how to live. They believe that in the fullness of time The Avenging Son will return with his Father in Glory to defeat the Traitors once and for all, and build an "Imperium Secundus" in the warp. The Aurelian cult would function a bit like the Bretonians as well, with Tanasha Euten acting as The Lady of The Lake. The Aurelian Cult is the Largest Religion in the Imperium claiming Trillions of Souls and almost 35% of the Imperium’s Total Population.

Deities

There are three chief deities of the Aurelian cult: The Father, The Son, and The Queen Mother

The Father

The Not-God Emperor of Mankind, Those who practice the Aurelian Cult believe that the Spirit or Soul of the Emperor far outgrows his actual physical presence, and that while he is Physically present on Holy Terra, his spirit is everywhere. The Aurelian Cult is very careful not to call The Emperor a “God.” And while Theologians throughout the Imperium speculate on the nature and essence of Chaos Demons, The Heresiarchs, The Aurelian, or the Mother. Speculation on the Emperor himself is strictly forbidden. He is known as “The Undefinable one,” “He who is above all,” “Rightful Ruler of All Things” etc.

Gulliman: The Son

The Aurelian Cult believes that Gulliman was sent by his Father to Ultramar so as to teach men how to follow him. And that by living as a human among humans, he could set an example for what The God-Emperor expects of all his Children. The annals of Gulliman's life is recorded in a several sacred texts, but his own writings about life on Ultramar and the Imperium are also treasured. It is believed that by dying on Macragge Guliman was beloved by his father and uplifted to godhood, where he now fights for the souls of those loyal to the Emperor.

The Queen Mother

Tarasha Euten, The Mother of Roboute Gulliman, she through her trials on the Flight to Holy Terra has become a god in her own right. She acts on behalf the Emperor and Her Son. She is seen as the "Facilitator" aiding man to follow the path to the Emperor laid out by Rouboute Gulliman.

The Daughters of Tanasha

The Queen Mother Appeared to The Women of Ophelia during the m33 telling them to gather their swords and "Rebuild her Home." They eventually became the founders of The Adeptus Sororitas, as well as the leaders of the "Maccrage Cleansing."

The Quests of The Mother

Those loyal servants of The Aurelian will receive tasks by the Queen Mother, those who dedicate their lives to The Lady of Ultramar and fulfill her tasks in protecting Mankind are bestowed with great power. Space Grail Knights!

The Golden Sorrow

The Golden Sorrow or the Black Sorrow is believed to have been first bestowed upon The Queen Mother. Because of her connection to her son, she witnessed the death and torture of Roboute Gulliman. Certain Ultramarines are considered to receive the "The Black Sorrow in which they bear witness to the suffering and death of their fellow believers. This can be the suffering of those devout living today, or those heroes who have died like St Aeonid. To receive the suffering of Roboute himself is considered "The Golden Sorrow" and those who receive it are considered highly favored to be considered worthy to witness the Death of Gulliman.

Imperium Secundus

Imperium Secundus has taken on a spiritual meaning as an Afterlife. It is believed that Rouboute is building Imperium Secundus in the warp, and all noble souls of the Imperium will join him in this new and final kingdom. The Aurelian is looking for those of noble and steadfast spirit who will join him in slaying chaos demons and transforming the warp into the imperial image.

Apotheosis

A Core belief of The Aurelian Cult is that of Apotheosis, and that those of the Emperor can become deified. Gulliman and Tanasha have achieved Apotheosis.

Apotheosis of Gulliman

Gulliman became a god because of his torture and sacrifice at the hands of Korphaeron. His nobility of spirit allowed him to Become a god.

Apotheosis of Tanasha

Gulliman's Mother, Tarasha Euten, takes on special significance in both Ultramar and The Aurelian Cult. This is not only because of her connection to her son, but also because of the events of "The Macragge Armada." The Macragge Armada were the ships that Gulliman was able to save from Macragge's destruction along with Billions of Ultramar Citizens. The Refugee Ships went through their own Grimbright version of The Flight of The Eisenhorn, where the Gellar Field failed on their warp to Terra. Tarasha Euten stood defiant against the Demons and horrors of the warp, and took command of the fleet. Because Tarasha was there and because there were billions upon billions on board, rather than a single battleship, Tarasha was able to comfort the fearful refugees; and rally them to faith.

By Using herself and Gulliman as the focal point for their belief, the Refugees were inspired to repel the demons and were able to build a sort of substitute Gellar Field of Faith." The other result of this was that Tarasha Euten ascended into a minor god (not a demon-prince of Gulliman, a minor God, like Isha, or The Chaos God of “The Greater Good”). Gulliman himself also achieved Apotheosis as a result of this Flight and there are occasional sightings of "The Aurelian" a Man in Gold and Blue coming to the aid of The Imperium. The Tasks of The Mother: (Space Grail Knights!) Those loyal servants of The Imperium will receive tasks by the Queen Mother, those who dedicate their lives to The Lady of Ultramar and fufill her tasks in protecting Mankind are bestowed with great power.

Eventual Apotheosis of The Primarchs

It is believed that should they die, the noble primarchs will join The Aurelian in the Regency of Imperium Secundus.

The Non-Apotheosis of The Emperor

The Emperor will not become A God upon his death, the Emperor is the Emperor, and does not need to ascend. He is already ascended in a way greater Than The Aurelian. To say that the Emperor will become a god is Stelafilism, which is a condemned heresey. To say that the Emperor already a god is Lorgarism, and is also a condemned heresy. To say that one can become Emperor-like is Vandirism, a most condemned heresy.

The End Times

By dying, Guilliman saved the souls of humans from drowning in the warp he is building his "Imperial Secundus" in the warp. When the End Times come, The Aurelian will reunite with the Emperor, bringing with him the souls of those noble souls who served the Emperor in Life and Served him and The Aurelian in Death. Then The Aurelian with Join his brothers and all Imperials and lead them into the Eye of Terror to slaughter the ruinous powers.

Demonic Entities

The Aurelian Cult (whether by accident or design) does not actually know the names of the actual Ruinous powers. Instead they are known through the Traitor Primarchs that serve them

Alpharomegon: The Schemer
Perturabo: The Great Temptor
Angron: The Corruptor
Mortarion (or whoevs): God of War and Wroth.
Lorgar: The King of Demons
Korphaeron: The Desecrator

Holy Entities

These holy entities do not have power inof themselves, rather, they are bestowed Miracles on behalf of their Lords, the Holy Triad.

The Celestial Saints

These include holy men and women from Gulliman and The Emperor's past who are believed to be in Imperium Secundus with Gulliman. They work on behalf of him and the faithful of the galaxy. Like the Living Saints their power is granted by the Holy Triad. Examples of the Celestial Saints:

St. Malcador the Hero
St. Olanius Pius
St. Konor of Maccragge
St. Aeonid Theil
St. Genetrix (the wife of Gulliman whose name is lost to history).

The Living Saints

The Divine Brethren The Primarchs are considered to be somewhere between gods and Saints.

Sacred Texts

"The Protoevangelion of St Konor"

St. Konor of Maccragge, foster father of The Aurelian, reveals unto Antoli sacred truths of the life of Rouboute Gulliman

"The Psalter of The Matron"

The Hymns sang by Tarasha Euten during the the "Flight to Terra"

"The Apocalypse of The Steward"

Account of the Last Battle for Maccragge by an unnamed Servant who remained on the planet. It was found during the Holy Crusade of Macragge in M35 reclamation by "The Daughters of Tanasha"

"Last Testament of Aurellion"

Collection Gulliman's Last Writings, his thoughts and warnings to the people of Ultramar, to the Imperium, and to His Astartes.

Cult Organization:

Unlike the Ecclesiarchy of The Imperium of Man, the Aurelian cult is far more heavily decentralized both dogmatically and hierarchically. Each Sanctioned Successor Chapter of the Ultramarines, Sororitas, and Human Branches of The Ecclesiarchy are considered to be micro-churches in of themselves. Several of these groups have wildly different interpretations of the writings of gulliman and the codex, and even their own traditions carried down from chapter master to chapter master. Organizations like the "Aurelian Mechanicus" is also considered to be in harmony with the Aurelian cult (no matter how suspiciously they are viewed.

Leadership

Chapter Masters

The Cult is Headed by the Chapter Master of The Ultramarines (Currently Maneus Calgar), headquartered in Espandor. He is considered "First Among Equals" Among the Other Chapter Masters The Chapter Masters of The XIII Legion: All Ultramarine descendent Chapters in union with The Cult serve administrative roles in the Cult. The Chapter-masters occasionally convene at Espandor in a Conclave to discuss, declaration of heretics and inter-cult discipline. These meetings are specific ceremony-bound practices, and should not be confused with the Chapter-Masters regular Duties as leaders of the Adeptus Astartes.

Adeptus Sorroritas

They follow their own organizational rules, and answer only to their Spiritual Liege the "Lord of Ultramar." Because their code was seen to be derived by The Queen Mother Herself, none dare challenge it.

The Black Eutenites

(this world's black templars/death company Grimbright Sad Marines) A fanatical and controversial order of Legions who have received "The Golden Sorrow" where upon they are witness to the Suffering and Death of Rouboute Gulliman. Additionally they are witness to the "the current sufferings of gulliman today" Where they are given visions of all those in the Galaxy whose prayers are yet to be answered, or in a need of aid. They call themselves the Black Eutenites because it was reveiled to them they are in descent to Tanasha Euten, who was the First to Recieve "The Golden Sorrow" as she was spiritually connected to Roboute Gulliman as he was tortured and killed on Maccragge. While Emotionally, Spiritually, (and physically) painful the Black Eutenites see this as a great honor, and have their own term for it - "The Gift of The Mother." This order is particularly controversial because they see themselves as an order apart from the rest of The Ecclesiarchy (and the Imperium for that matter), and that they are charged by Gulliman and Tanasha themselves to right the wrongs of the imperium (including when righting said wrongs puts them at odds with the The Ecclesiarchy and other Imperial Administrations).

Holy Sites

The Ecclesiarchy of the Aurelian Cult is Set around 13 Sacred Sites. Espandor (contentiously) holds the honor of First Among Equals. However Each Holy Seat is powerful in its own right. Every Ultramarine Successor Chapter and Sister of Battle Chapter Must Choose one Holy Seat in which they are beholden to. Holy Seats (in order of Importance)

Espandor
Holy Terra

Because of The Stringent rules about religion and Cults on “Holy Terra,” The Seat of Holy Terra is not on Terra itself, but on "The Temple of The Holy Martyrs” on Luna. The Church also owns several “Monuments” on Holy Terra, that serve both sites of Pilgrimage as well as tourism.

Ophelia

The Site of where Tanasha Euten's Ship Crash Landed, during Maccragge's Famous "Flight to Terra." Is one of the Oldest Seats of the Ecclesiarchy, and is also the founding site of the Sisters of Battle. Most Sisters of Battle Claim this Seat as their Spiritual Liege.

Calth
Nova Thulium
Sotha
Arda
Prandium
Maccragge

Despite its obvious religious Importance, Maccragge was only purged of the Demonic Taint of Nurgle following the Sister's Crusade of M37. Maccragge was considered a had a sister seat of both Ophelia, Espandor, and Nova Thulium there until M39, when the Seats were united under a single Spiritual Liege.

Konor

A heavily Industrialized world, Konor is both the Birthplace and Seat of the Cult of The Aurelian Mechanicus.

Saramanth
Uldregor
Laphis

The Adeptus Mechanicus

For the most part the Adeptus Mechanicus is unchanged from Vanillahammer

The Aurelian Mechanicus

The Aurelian Mechanicus is a syncretized faith that is a result of some of the more techmarine heavy chapters of the Ultramarines. It has also provided cover for those who wish to worship the emperor as a god.

The Omnisiah of The Mechanical Aurelian: Certain Sects of The Aurelian Cult have syncretized with the Adeptus Mechanicus (particularly those Techmarine heavy chapters), who have taken on some of the Beliefs of the Emperor as The Omnissiah made flesh. They are allowed, but are watched with suspicion by The Mainline Aurelian Cults, Mechanicus, and Imperium. They are also the closest The Aurelian Cults can get to calling the Emperor a God without falling into Heresey.
Mechanicus Triumphis: The Aurelian; In these cults, The Aurelian is sometimes called “The Great Creation.” As the Omnissiah is the Great Machine, The Aurelian, and all of the Primarchs are in a sense his construction. The Aurelian also gathers all Machine spirits to serve him and The Omnissiah.
Factoria Magna: The Mother in The Aurelian Mechanicus; The Mother is referred to “The Mother of Mechanicus” because she participated in The Omnissiah’s Creative energies in helping to maintain and nourish the Omnissiah’s great creations. The Mother is the Patron of all Apothecaries and Techmarines.

The Promethean Cult

The Promethean Cult of Vulkan is built around the traditions of Nocturne and centered around its founder "Father" Vulkan. Origionally only intended for His Space Marines, Vulkan has created a softer "layity" version of the Creed for the Civilians of Segmentum Pacificus. Some have charged Vulcan with doing what Lorgar did during the Great Crusade, but Vulkan argues that His Creed is more of a philosophy than a religion. Furthermore, because "The Segmentum Pacificus are an Unruly and Firey People who distrust the Imperium" Vulkan says "They need to be tempered by a way of life that encourages faith in eachother rather than faith in a higher power or institutions." Regardless, the Promethean way of life is encouraged by the Imperium as a counter to the growing strength of the Aurelian Cult.

To call the Promethean Creed a "religion" is perhaps a little too strong, as the tennants and practices of the Code are often too stringent for Everyday citizens of the Imperium to practice. The Promethean Creed is instead closer to a "Secret Society" with many of the Imperium's Warriors, Astartes, and Aristocrats practicing a form of the Promethean Cult.

Like any good secret society there are different levels of the Creed.

"The Artificers": The Open Secret Society

open to any civilians, popular with craftsmen, and entrepreneurial middle class
Runs many charitable societies

The Drakelings: Lower Tier of The Secret Society

consists of several levels.

Daughters of Nocturne

The Daughters of Nocturne have no relation to The Sisters of the Aurelian Cult, but represent an order found within the Promethean Cult. They answer to Vulkan Himself.

The Daughters of Nocturne have a very select membership, as each woman who applies must either be from Nocturne, or prove to be no more than 4th generation removed from Nocturne.

Despite their limited numbers, the Daughters of Nocturne are the single most well equipped fighting force in the Imperium. Every single piece of equipment is state of the art and crafted by Vulkan personally.

Upon the death of a sister, her equipment is gifted to her next of kin. Providing a priceless heirloom to the family. Should they decide to part with it, each segment of equipment will fetch an exhorbitantly high price as Abbesses of the Daughters of Tanasha, Imperial Gaurd Generals, Fronts for Commoragh Merchants and Aristocrats will pay to augment their own weapons with a piece of Vulkan's craftsmanship.

Absolutely no one outside of a Daughter of Nocturne has a complete set of Armor and Equipment. Even a Former High Lord of Terra was unable to get more than a Gauntlet, Breastplate, Supply kit and sidearm.

The Dauntless Cult

Ecclesia Impavipaulci or The Cult of "The Dauntless Few" is a sect of the Aurelian Cult that tries to build itself on the Historic Friendship between Roboute Gulliman and Vulkan.

The Cult is composed almost entirely Space Marines, and almost always Ultramarine Successors.

The "Impavidae" often incorporate customs found on Nocturne into their rituals as well as placing greater emphasis on hospitality and protection of civilian life.

Disparagingly called "Gullimanders," by other space marines. The Opinion of The Salamanders themselves varries between flattered by the imitation, to irritated.

Heretical Sects

Unlike in Vanillahammer when heresy is thrown around by any sufficiently miffed Inquisitor. Heresy means something very specific in The Aurelian cult. It means to act “As Lorgar” who committed the Two Great Heresies by Calling the Emperor a God and by worshipping the Dark Gods. Lorgarite is sometimes used as an accusation of Heresy.

Lorgarism: Lorgarism is simply put to worship the Emperor as a God. A god in the Aurelian Cult is an Immaterial entity, and to do so is to call the Emperor a Chaos god. This is heretical and is seen as a gateway to the worship of The Ruinous powers.

The Emperor gave us Aurelian and His Mother so that our Prayers and dreams would serve him, not serve the monsters of the warp. He chose his son Gulliman to godhood because, of all his children, he ruled to serve his people on earth. The Gods of Aurelian and Matron Magna serve us as much as we serve them. Thus to Worship the Emperor is not truly honoring him but honoring yourself and the monsters who tricked you into doing so. The Emperor demands nothing of you but your service to the Imperium, and that is sufficient. To say otherwise is to say to The Emperor "I know how to serve you better than you."
Maneus Calgar, Spiritual Liege of Maccragge

Vandirism: Vandirism, named after the heretical former Spiritual Liege of Terra, is the belief that any human (but especially Vandire) can achieve Emperor-ness, and that The Emperor himself was once merely a man.

Goge Vandire's sloppy synthesis of The Aurelian Cult and The Imperial Truth ultimately resulted in a major headache for the other Ecclesiarchs
He was eventually outed by Sebastian Thor who replaced him.
Despite condemnation by the Aurelian Cult, it has endured among many thinkers on Terra.
Because of his well beloved personality, charismatic speeches, suicide, and disastrous successor, He has become something of a martyred hero among those detractors of The Aurelian Cult.

Filastrism: Also called "Thorianism," Filastrism believes that the Emperor is trapped in his mortal coil and upon death will become a new, more powerful entity.

Thorianism after its founder and promoter "Sebastian Thor,"
- Sebastian Thor was the Spiritual Liege of Terra who ousted the Former heretical leader, Goge Vandire
- Unlike the Bumbling self aggrandizement of Goge Vandire, the Inquisition supported reign of Sebastian Thor was an absolute disaster
- It resulted in not only a schism of Terra from the Greater Aurelian cult, but also the deaths and ousting of several Aurelian Faithful
- Sebastian Thor's theories also took root in the inquisition culminating in a inter-inquisitorial conflict, and several assassination attempts on the emperor and ecclesiarchs of Ultramar.
- The Thorian Schism is also the reason that The Aurelian Seat is banned from Holy Terra, instead by imperial decree is in exile on Luna.
There are rumours that Sebastian Thor was a plant of Alpharius, demon prince of Tzeentch, and was part of his effort to trick the imperium into destroying itself.
"When Ousting Goge" is now a common phrase in the Imperium used as a warning trading one problem for a much greater one.

Oh, Queen Mother, save us from Terra and its wealth of Powerful Fools with Silver Tongues and Worn Quills.

-Alicia Dominica

Old Terran Religions

Thought to have been eliminated by The Emperor, many of the world's older religions have slowly come out of hiding, with many having established communities on other worlds. For whatever reason (change of heart? triangulating against newer warp based sects? luring them into complacency for when he is finally strong enough to smite them?), The Emperor has gone back on his original anti-religious rules, and has permitted Old World religions to establish enclaves and reclaim some of their old sacred sites.

Despite the official toleration, however, they are often harrassed by both members of the newer cults and those still adhering to the imperial truth. As such the communities of these beliefs remain secretive and taciturn about most of their faith.

Archaeus Selecti

The most secretive next to the Katholeans, the Old Chosen keep to their book of ancient origin. As far as anyone is aware, they do not have any specific organization instead keeping to the traditions of their local Magister. A suprising number have come out of hiding at the highest levels of their planet's society.

The Imperium was also surprised to find how many were present in Forgeworlds.

Katholeans

An ancient sect with an ancient organization, The Leadership has claimed an unbroken line of "Pentarchs" from 40,000 years ago. When asked where, the Katholeans suddenly become less talkative. Mellennia of Experience and suspicion of The Imperium has wrapped this organization in secrecy. They are especially suspicious of the Aurelian Cult, and most warp based entities, seeing it as a realm of Demons. Because of this, and the legacy of Olanius Pius (whom the Aurelians have attempted to co-opt as one of their own), The Katholeans are slowly gaining more acceptance within the Imperium. They also have produced a significant number of Anti-Demon warriors and successful exorcists. Many have tried to learn more about their highly secretive leadership, but all these orgs have to show for it are quite a few dead Inquisitors. For whatever reason the Katholens have good relations with (unsuprisingly) Jaghatai Khan, and (more surprisingly) The Lion El'Johnson.

Anti-Katholians

Seem to be similar in teaching to Katholeans, but are completely excluded from Katholean leadership for whatever reason (they would insist the Katholians left them). When asked they usually say something about the Katholians as a "Corrupted" form of the true faith.

They are much less secretive about their faith than the Katholians, and for the Old World Faiths, a startling amount of potent psykers. The acceptance of these psykers seem to varry based on sect, with some seeing the latent children as "demonic" and are more than happy to supply the black ships, other see these potent abilities as "gifts" and use their powers primarily to better their community. Some Anti-Katholians are remarkably gifted in the arts of faith-healing, ESP, and language.

Obsequiani

Sometimes also referred to as the "Poplibri." This somewhat more open group is divided into Scholae, but also seem to have some sort of leadership. It is a poorly kept secret that The Primarch, Jaghatai Khan, has sympathies towards this faith, if not a crypto-obsequian himself. They do not have as many issues with the use of the warp as the Katholeans do, but also advise caution and faith as a stalwart against potential corruption.

Octavians

Are usually proud to point out how their faith were the first to recognize the warp over 41000 years ago. Refer to Chaos Gods as "Tull Pah." Of all of The Old World Faiths, the Octavians have been the quickest to adapt and thrive in the Primarchite Imperium. Many Octavians have even been welcomed into the Imperial Inquisition. They are both Aggressive Warriors and aggressive pacifists depending on which planetary sect.

Primarchs:

Sanguinius

Sanguinius only fought one Battle in the Lorgar Let Down. The in which he did He and his men were consumed with The Red Thirst. It was so barbaric that Sanguinius refused to fight anyone but Lorgar himself. Having also consumed Kor Phaeron, he is now witness to the horrid memories of The Black Cardinal and is fighting this corruption in addition to The Red Thirst. He fears that the next time he develops the Red Thirst, he will fall to Chaos.

Lion El’Johnson

Between Alpharius' Manipulations of Luther, The Destruction of Calliban, and almost getting manipulated by Alpharius into starting a Civil War with the Ultramarines. Lion El'Johnson is obsessed with Counter-intelligence, and information networks. Unlike Vanillahammer The Lion's Dark Angels have made the Existence of The Fallen well known, and alert other legions to its activities. They "stay in the Dark, to help others see the light." The Lion is now also very deliberate and slow moving in his actions. To the point where some have claimed he is "Sleeping" on the Rock. He is not. He is just paranoid about being manipulated again.

Horus

The Warmaster continues his duties, and struggles to maintain his father's imperium. Apart from a few deserters, horus and his legions took little damage apart from the mental and spiritual. Though such damage has done untold damage to his soul, and The Great Treachery has shaken his belief in The Imperial Truth. During the Treachery he learned that his son Abbadon, who in saving Horus from the Anatheme Blade, fell to Chaos himself. During Horus' defense of Terra, Aximand gathered several companies of Horus and deserted the legion. Looting and pilaging the Solar System. Horus abandoned Terra to fight his wayward sons and was ultimately forced to kill Aximand. Gathering up the remaining deserters under the leadership of Amurael, he returned to Terra only to discover that Alpharius had nearly killed his father. Furious and devastated, he refused to allow his legions to kill their former brothers and insisted on executing each and every traitorous son himself.

Jaghatai Khan, the Nomad Prince

Jaghatai is based less on Ghengis Khan, and more Babur the Great. In general his White Scars and Chorgoris bear more resemblance to the Central Asian Steppe Peoples like the Old Uyghurs, Uzbeks and Chagatai of Timur (Convenient, eh?). Less "ruthless barbarian" trope and more "noble savage" trope. Make no mistake, he will still raise a mighty horde and will slaughter your army down to the last man, but afterwards he will stop to write a poem about the only flower left standing on the ruined battlefield.

I'm imagining The Khan taking on a more Noble appearance, less leather and more fine garments, layered plate mail, and Qalpak hats. His legion and ships have also taken on a distinctly more medieval central asian look, with his battleships embellished with the elaborate Gold and Turquoise of the Registon Maydoni. And his Stormseers spinning in their psyker chants like Whirling Dervishes. His armies being a diverse array of Medieval Asiatic warriors from Nomadic Warriors to Gurkhas

In keeping with the shift from Karakorum to Samarkand, Jaghatai in this universe is a greater administrator than he is in Grimdark. What sets him apart from other administrative focused Primarchs (Fulgrim, Gulliman, Lorgar), is his suspicion for settled governments, and a preference for nomadic. Khan sees a little of The Palatine in every Settlement he meets, and is convinced that the best form of government is one where the government is mobile. His meeting with his father, experience with space travel has only solidified this opinion. Khan thinks that just as it is best for the Hordes to govern cities, it should be the Fleets that direct planets, not Planets that direct fleets. His effort to convince his father and brothers of this has so far been unsuccessful, but many have come to respect his views.

Rather than being forgettable but likable, Jaghatai, in this timeline, has an "odd couple" broship with Roboute Gulliman, similar to that of Fulgrim and Ferrus Manus. Jaghatai and Rouboute represent the ideal form of opposing ways of life. They have a friendly rivalry, and regularly trade opinions and debates on the ideal administration. Khan admires the logistical prowess of Gulliman's "Settler system" while Gulliman is impressed with the Flexibility and adaptability of Khan's "nomadic system." Ultimately it was because of this unlikely friendship that after the events of the Lorgar Letdown, Gulliman entrusted Khan with composing The Codex Astartes.

After the Events of the Lorgar Letdown, Khan spends his time in the frontier regions of the Imperium, travelling aiding and governing the forgotten planets. He also oversees the Ultramar/Imperium alliance, as well as an advisory role for the "Codex Astartes" Chapters

Rogal Dorn, The Mad Kleisourarch of Tempestus

Disgraced as the Emperor's Praetor, Humiliated by Alpharius and Perturabo, and Abandoned by his own Legion, Rogal Dorn, Former Praetor of Terra, and Great Architect of The Imperial Palace has retreated to his home in the Inwit sector, and there he is building. Those few Imperial Fists (now called The Hands of Dorn) who have remained loyal are his master builders, serving to transform the Entire Inwit Segmentum into a Citadel. Few of his brothers know why, or what he is building for, and most have assumed their brother mad, for surely nothing exists to be as terrible to need a fortress this strong?

During The Lorgar Letdown

Perturabo is able to goad Dorn and his fists into a Trap on Olympia, which Perturabo has transformed into a massive fortification he calls the Iron Cage.The LL Iron Cage is less Grimdark than its Vanilla hammer version, its more like a standard seige (Though Perturabo now also employs warp magic into his fortifications, making it a trippy seige as well). Its significantly less devastating than on the Imperial Fists, however it does take a really long time to seige. Long enough for Dorn to be away at his post on Terra for Alpharius to sneak in, destroy half the Imperial Palace (and about half of the Custodes, and a good chunk of what was Asia and the Pacific) on Terra with an Archeotech Bomb, Kill Malcador the Sigilite, Mortally Wound the Emperor and Steal the Emperor's Right Hand and Heart as a Tribute to Tzeentch. Once he finally cracked Perturabo's Seige Perturabo was no where to be found. Perturabo then Blew up the planet of Olympia as an offering to The Prince of Pleasure for Demonhood.

The Imperial Fists, already exhausted from the endless months of intense seiging and warfare from multiple fronts, suddenly had less that a few hours to regroup, salvage their equipment, and make it to the transport ships (they were unable to teleport). Dorn and his legion barely escaped. And of the 30% of his legion he lost to the Seige of the Iron Cage, nearly two thirds came from those who were unable to escape, their souls now captives to the Prince of Pleasure as a gift from his favorite champion.

After The Lorgar Letdown

His legion was mostly intact, but he took the injuries his Father and Terra sustained very personally. The fact that his father was only wounded, and that there was only a continent sized crater on Earth did little to lift up his spirits. Dorn resigned from his Position as The Emperor's Praetorian, and wandered the galaxy. At some point in his self-imposed exile of he stumbled upon rumors of Hive Fleet Tiamet. He and his men followed through and in M33 he encountered Ziaphoria's Tower. Ordering an excavation of the tower. Through this Dorn has learned the awful truth of what is coming, and that Humanity is not prepared. Perturabo's words ringed in his soul and he suddenly realized his true calling. He saw an entity who, like him, had no concept of surrender, no notion of the cost of war, no instinct except endurence and adaptability. Discovering new found purpose he returned to Terra and formally requested that the Segmentum Tempestus be handed over to him. The Sector, which was divided among the already overworked brothers, were more than happy to have their brother back and active in Imperial affairs again. They readily granted it to him. Now in control of the Segmentum, He immediately set to work. All local leaders who opposed his rule or designs were expelled (this now includes the nomadic fleet Tallarn, who opposed the engineering of their home system). All resources in the Segmentum, be it human, material or spiritual, exists for the fortifications of the Segmentum. Planets, drained of their mantle for Ore, stars have gone dark from Dyson spheres, asteroid fields lay vacant, gas giants Syphoned to their core. At the Center of it all lay Inwit, once an ice world now a Fortress world three times the size of its old planet, surrounded by rings and floating fortresses.

Abandonment by his Legion

While Russ lost his legion to the madness of chaos, Dorn lost his to his own all consuming obsession. Sigismund, representing those Fists who wished the Legion Returned to their founding purpose of Great Crusades and glorious conquests confronted Dorn. Dorn, while furious, let them go. The Few that remained (about 4 chapters worth) renamed themselves the Hands of Dorn. Because of his Legion Deserting him, Dorn has come to rely more on the Men and Women of The Segmentum, in particular the "Crenellations of Krieg," who are his steadfast fortress defenders. The Entire Segmentum is hammered into the image of Dorn. Stoic, utilitarian, obstinate, and ever resilient. And when The Hive Fleets dig begin to arrive in the Segmentum. Dorn and his Troops stood ready.

Roboute Gulliman

Gulliman is dead. Not "in stasis" dead. Just Dead. Sanguinius/Ferrus Manus dead. The death of Rouboute Gulliman serves as this universe's focal point for all of the spiritual shenanigans that Vanillahammer 40k has like the Living Saints, Sanguinor (The Aurelian), The Sisters of Battle (Daughters of Euten), The Ecclesiarchy (With Maneus Calgar as "The Spiritual Liege" Space Pope). The Ultramarines also now have a Grimbright version of The Black Rage called "The Golden Zeal," where the Heroic last Stand of Rouboute Gulliman Inspires them to fight demons and heretics. Istavaan IV and The Drop Site Massacre is instead Calth and the demonic destruction of MacCragge (see dropsite massacre suggestion), in which Rouboute gives his life to help ensure the evacuation of the Macragge through hundreds of evacuation ships (important later), as well as the writings that would eventually become the Codex Astartes. Because of his sacrifice, and the faith of his mother and the Maccragge refugees, Gulliman achieved Apotheosis after his death.

The "Aurelian Cult" alongside Vulkan's Promethean Cult and Cult Mechanicus are the three accepted religions in the Imperium. The Aurellian Cult in particular serves as the substitute for The Imperial Cult of Vanillahammer, (perhaps instead of being Grimdark evil Goge Vandire is just Space Luther and creates a different sect?). The Religion functions similar to how The Koran thinks Christianity works, with The Emperor (The Father), Gulliman (The Son), and Tarasha Euten (The Holy Spirit/Blessed Mother) forming the Holy Triad of Dieties, with the Father being Supreme over the Son and Mother. The Return of the Avenging Son is considered a sign of the End Times, when it is prophesied that The Avenging Son will return to Earth to Slay Lorgar and -Reuniting with his father and brothers- shall slay the Ruinous Powers.

Chaos

Unlike in Vanilla hammer where the stories of The Imperium are Grimdark, and the Chaos stories vary between Grimbright, Nobledark, and Noblebright. Chaos will be Grimdark while the Imperium is Grimbright. The gods of Chaos are too bickering and incompetent to truly mount an effective assault into the Imperium. And while the Horus Heresey was a Chaos undivided "defeat," and Nobledark Imperium is a Khorn "victory," the dominant god of this universe is Tzeentch. Tzeentch hijacked the Great Treachery from Lorgar through his Champion Alpharius. Making him the current uncontested victor of the great game. This is a devastating victory for chaos because Tzeentch is ultimately a self defeating god: A lord of change can not enjoy permanent victory.

Traitor Primarchs

Perturabo

Given that Perturabo has a whole "Hellenic/Italian Renaissance" Theme, His Slaaneshi demon form looks like the Vitruvian man with extra arms and legs emerging from a single point. His contribution to the Lorgar Letdown was keeping Rogal Dorn and his entire Legion occupied in a Grimbright version of the "Iron Cage (which is now Olympia)." Dorn's Absence from Terra allowed the Alpha Legion to sneak in and cause a ruckas on Terra.

Curze

Curze is a Traitor, however he was a "loyalist" during the LL. Outline: Raided and ruined Ultramar Spent most of the LL attacking the then-loyal Mortarion, eventually driving him to Khorne Met by the Cabal, who in this world wanted him to destroy the Emperor himself, curze declined. Brutally murdered all involved. Learned the truth of what was happening and switched sides. Went to Terra and was Vital in the expulsion of Demons from the Planet Was given a ceremonial slap on the wrist for his behavior at Ultramar given his own segmentum to rule, which he rules only as Konrad Curze could Still Haunted by his visions of WH40K Sometime around M34, starts to think Cabal was right, disgusted by "decadence" of imperium Is able to convince Khan et al to allow him to make Astartes Chapters, nightlords scattered everywhere but Ultramar. Tensions between Cuze and other Primarchs come to a head. Curze "secedes" from the Imperium around the time of the first Black Crusade. Taking most (but not all of his chapters with him. Less of a war, more of a raid. Still devastating as chapters spread all across the imperium, answer the Lord of Night's call Ascends to Demonhood of Malal Hates both the Imperium and Chaos Ironically saves and destroys the imperium, as his now massive legion, while looting, also destroys several Black Legion fleets.

Corvus Corax (Alternate)

Its really not that much of a stretch for Corvax to be a servant of Malal. In Vanillahammer, he pretty much is already. Once one of The Emperor's most noble sons, Corvus Corax disappeared into the Eye of Terror and came back a different being. In his vengeful hunt for Alpharius, The Ravenlord traveled deep into the eye of terror, using his powers of stealth to track the Servant of the Lord of Change. Bolstered by his faith in the Imperial Truth, he knew he could not waver in his duty to bring justice and vengence against these warp demons.

He and his legion exists in hiding. Always tracking the movements of the Chaos gods. Never leaving the warp except occasionally to gather new recruits, but even then, they could instead raid the Planets of those serving the ruinous powers. Or perhaps even trade with them. After all Slaanesh, Nurgle, and Khorne each have a grudge with the Lord of Change, and if their goals aligned with Corax, then it is a necessary evil. He is safe because he knows that these beings of the warp won't exist because they shouldn't exist. He knows that he was made by the emperor to be a creature of the warp made to defeat it. To serve the Imperial Truth, to be a loyal son of the Emperor in this immaterial hellscape is to be a being of pure malice. And if those warp entities exist that can defeat the warp, then their embrace is to be welcomed.

There are reports in the warp of black ravens who stalk the eye of terror.

Angron

In both Vanillahammer, and in most alternate heresies, Nurgle is usually the odd man out. He never has any genuine adherents. Only Captive Followers. I think Angron could be willingly convinced to join Nurgle, especially given how they have changed Angron in the recent lore. The Lord of Death can give Angron everything he wants: a chance to be with his comrades, peace, salvation from the butcher's nails, a father who actually cares for him (in his own disgusting way). Plus it would fit well with their name, the World Eaters.

In the case of Angron, perhaps Nurgle makes an offer to Angron to finally escape his hellish life, to be free from the pain of the Butcher's Nails. So Angron becomes a willing servant of Nurgle, with a giant disgusting bloated flesh cyst where the butchers nails used to be. He's also been reunited with his old comrades from Nuceria. Nurgle is such a good grandpa he fetched their souls out of the warp and put them into Zombied bodies.

Mortarion

Mortarion serves Khorne. His hatred of Psykers and Magic and the rage of feeling betrayed by Legions on both sides eventually drives him down the path of the Blood God. Mortarion serves the silent bitter rage of the Blood God, rather than berserk rage and bloodlust.

Mortarion and his rogue Death Gaurd saw the opportunity for Vengence against his Hated Brother Fulgrim, Annihilated the entire Emperor's Children Legion and transforming Chemos into a death world.

Alpharius and Omegon

Lorgar only thought he was in charge. Really Alpharius was masterminding the whole thing (the whole Lorgar Letdown wasn't really an assault on the Imperium of Man, it was just Tzeentch's move in the Great Game). Alpharius utilized the elements of the Lorgar Letdown.

Death of Gulliman by Mortarion and the Fall of MacCragge
Warp Storms around Ultrimar
Chaos on Calliban
The Space Wolves' Sack of Prospero
Betrayal at Calth, and attempts to frame the Ultramarines as Traitors
Angron's Nurglite attack on Chemos
Dorn's Battle at Olympia
"Omegons" Fleet "Rebelling"
The Mechanicum Civil War (which didn't take place on mars) was a Dark Mechanicum invasion and succession of Forgeworlds in the Segmentum and Pacificus

To have the entire Imperium (and the other 3 Ruinous Powers) focused on the idea that the Imperium was about to Split down the Middle. Instead, Alpharius took advantage of all of the chaos to have his "Loyal" legion come to Terra. There he performed his Coup de Grace

Death of Malcador
Bomb that destroys half of the Imperial Palace (As well as most of Asia) destroying most of the Custodes, the Sisters of Silence, as well as dozens of Hive Citties in what was once the Continent of Asia.
Terran Based Defense Guns were pointed at the moon and were used to bomb the "Bright Side of the Moon" At least half of the Population of the Moon is dead.
Tzeentchian Demon incursions looting the treasures of old earth.
Alpharius stealing the Right hand and Heart of The Emperor of Mankind and consecrates them to Tzeentch. Before disappearing into the Web way.
Disabling the Golden throne for at least a week. Causing untold numbers of lost ships to the warp.

So not really as devastating as The Horus Hersey was, it was still pretty bad. The remaining Custodes were there to save the Emperor, and Losing a heart in the 31st millennium isn't the debilitating injury it is in the 2nd. Alpharius didn't give the Emperor a "Soul-wound" or whatever. This is also the reason that Chaos has been less active for the past 10 millennia. The other Chaos gods are still smarting from Tzeentch's devastating play in The Great Game, that most are either completely unwilling to work with each other, or work with each other against Tzeentch. Giving the Imperium more breathing room.

Demon Prince of Tzeentch

Alpharius and Omegon have merged into a massive two headed peacock, with heads similar to the Hydra of their Pauldron. Each "Eye" of the Peacock's plumage is a functioning eye, through which Alpharius sees into the possible futures.

Xenos

Eldar

The Eldar have some semblance of unity through their shared desired to keep the webway secure. The Imperium has some access to the webway but for the most part, the Emperor's Webway Project has been indefinitely postponed until the Emperor can fully recover. The project itself is fine, unlike in Vanillahammer, but one of the consequences of the Lorgar Letdown was Alpharius' destruction of part of the Imperial Palace and an influx of Tzeentchian Demons raiding terra. Perhaps even some traitor legions were able to escape into the webway gate. This spooks the Eldar, who are terrified that Human recklessness with the Webway will cause it to become breached by the Ruinous powers. Seeing the penetration of the webway as an existential threat to the Eldar, The Craftworlds and even the Dark Eldar have got together to aggressively patrol the Webway gates from Imperial and Chaotic incursions.

The Imperium can still use the Webway, but it is heavily restricted. The Emperor and Magnus have been able to negotiate for limited official use of the webway. The Imperium is only permitted certain entrances to the webway (terra and perhaps 2 others per segmentum). Only Rogue Traders with joint Imperial-Craftworld Licenses are permitted travel through the webway. These highly prized licenses are incredibly rare (no more than 10 have been issued by a single craftworld through its 10 millennium existence) and are the most prized possession one could inherit. In terms of wealth, prestige, and clout, The Web Trader is to a Rogue Trader what a Rogue Trader is to a planet bound merchant. Overtime, the Eldar and Imperium have worked out agreements for individual Astartes Chapters, and even an Imperial Legion (The Thousand Sons) to be granted limited permission into the webway. Jaghatai Khan, Fulgrim, and Ferrus Manus have also been granted Permission to enter the Web way, but he is never permitted more than a force the size of a Chapter to accompany him. Vulkan is permanently banned from The Webway (which suits him just fine). The Inquisition has very limited access to the Webway, and their activities are closely monitored.

The Webway Project thus still exists, and still exists to the benefit of the greater imperium. However, rather than the dream of mankind's future it was hoped to be, it is a shadow of its potential. Little more than a limited access HOV lane, for emergency logistics, limited trade and as an emergency channel. The Human Webway Project has ground to a screeching halt, crushed under the weight of treaty obligations, political opportunism, and eldar micromanagement. Perhaps once the Emperor is fully healed the project can roar back to life, but for now, the current arrangement helps keep some semblance of diplomacy between the humans and eldar, and offers enough benefits to be considered a positive improvement.

Dark Eldar

They don’t really know what to do to save their souls from Slaanesh. They are trying to figure that out. The Dark Eldar are trying all sorts of different things, soulstones, apotheosis, technologically aided immortality. So far nothing is working. The Dark Eldar are so ruthless and amoral because they will stop at nothing to find away to escape Slaanesh.

Excerpts (Writefaggotry)

Codex Astartes

Preface to Index Aurelian This Passage was part of Roboute's Collected writings called "Reflections on the Great Crusade." In which Roboute provides commentaries on the actions of himself and his brothers during The Emperor's Great Crusade as a preface to his own death and Lorgar's treachery. Gulliman remains hopeful in the Emperor's project, but he does warn that The Primarchs need to stop thinking of themselves as conquerors, and instead as rulers.

We should not be so arrogant to assume that all sins fall on Lorgar and his ilk. As if it is us not them who have nothing to atone for. All of us have committed great crimes in the name of a Higher Truth. Perhaps I can say that my legions never stooped to the brutality of Angron and his world eaters, yet the home of Nuceria was part of my kingdom. The men who tortured and mutilated the soul of my brother continued their evil with their deeds unpunished. Even if I am not a monster by my deeds I have been their husbandman through my omissions. All of us have committed our crimes and when we do, we place hope in our immortality, thinking that the memories of our nefarious deeds will die with our ephemeral brethren. They do not. Instead the stories echo and amplify in whispers and hearths and children's bedsides. Eventually all of the galaxy will know of us not as the heroes we paint ans sculpt ourselves to be, but mythical monsters who steal their children and punish the wicked. And as they grow fearful, we grow cold. And as aloofness becomes callousness, callousness becomes contempt. And after contempt? What then? Then perhaps it would be better if Lorgar and the traitors did succeed, for at least such maniacal evil has the virtue of honesty, and that's one more virtue than possessed by the hypocrite. No, if the citizens of this Imperium are to serve us, then we must serve them as well. Our Astartes should grow and bond not merely with us and their ships, but the planets they serve, attend to their needs, take on their way, right their wrongs and nurture their growth. If we take the best of their sons for our own ranks, should we not return something as well?

Religion and The Warp

Sacred Texts Excerpts

The Psalter of The Matron
The Psalter of the Matron, are a collection of hymns and songs recorded by the Pilgrim fleets of Maccragge. According to tradition, these songs were composed by Tanasha Euten and her closest companions during the "Pilgrimage of Terra" where the Refugee fleets of Maccragge were harrassed by the demonic forces of the warp. These songs are the oldest of the Religious texts of the Aurelian Cult, and as such they are considered the bedrock on which most religious doctrines must be fount. This particular passage serves as the basis for Imperium Secundus: The Afterlife in which Gulliman gathers the heroes of the Imperium to serve him and his father after death. Illyria, is seen as a metaphor for The Warp, but is also used by the faithful as a poetic expression for trials placed upon them in life. The Hymn has been appropriated into battle chants by many ecclesiarchic organizations, and is often used as a funerary hymn by the Devout in Ultramar.

For though we are lost in Illyria,

Beset by all our foes,

We trust in you The Ultramarine,

For In Illyria you are Building a Kingdom

For In Illyria you are paving the path

For in Illyria the wild beasts obey you

For in Illyria the brutes and monsters scatter

For in Illyria the Loyal will gather to you

For in Illyria a New Kingdom will be made.

The Aurelian says to Forest of Illyria

"Be Trimmed and Pruned" And The Forest will Grove itself

The Aurelian says to the Cliffs of Illyria,

"Be Sturdy and Sloped" And The Cliffs will make themselves Foundations

The Aurelian says to Oceans of Illyria

"Be Calm and be Clean" and The Oceans will harbor themselves

The Aurelian will say to the Beasts of Illyria

"Be docile and fertile" and the beasts will husband themselves.

The Aurelian will say to Illyria "Be a Kingdom fit for my Father"

And Illyria will bow and become Imperium."

Hymmn 54

Apotheosis of Tanasha Euten

The Last Vox Broadcast of "The Maiden of Espandor"

The Maiden of Espandor was the de facto lead ship of the Refugee fleet of Maccragge, containing Tanasha Euten and several of the Senators of Maccragge. It fell out of the warp and landed on the Planet Ophelia. There were no bodies found on the ship. Instead a silver scroll called "The Manifest of The Faithful" which contains the list of those on board who "Were not found wanting." This is one of the few recordings salvaged from the Ship. The Ship is currently maintained as a site of Pilgramage by the Ecclesiarch of Ophelia

"Perhaps you are falling into despair, and you believe The Emperor has abandoned Ultramar in its darkest day. But Know This! That as my son gave his dying breath fighting these very demons he did not lose his faith in the Emperor. And because of this I know That The Lord of Ultramar stands alongside us, I see him like a great wave of sparkling clean water driving down the Floatsam and mud of the warp. He did not lose his faith, and so I swear to you on this accursed demon-ridden ship, nor will I. So if you weary to place your faith in the Emperor and too tired to carry your prayers to Terra, then fear not! Your hopes and prayers will not be lost in the hell, for as The Queen Mother of Ultramar I command you to look upon me and to place your faith in my faith and the faith of Rouboute. For we have not forgotten him -and with our last words, passing spirit, and dying gasps- My son and I will carry your names and your prayers to the Golden Throne." Courage and Honnor, my Children! The Emperor Protects!"

Lorgar Letdown

Iron Cage

Perturabo's Speech to Dorn

"Do you Remember, Rogal, when you were asked if there was any Fortress you could build that I could not siege?"

"Yes" said Dorn, "and the answer remains the same."

"As curt as ever." Said The Seigemaster of Olympia, ignoring the swarms of Fists searching the other rooms leading to the throne room.
"Now what about the inverse? Does the Great Architect of Terra believe he could crack any Fortress I built?"

"This is evident now" Dorn replied, to the muffled laughs of the Imperial Fists.

"Indeed," Perturabo nodded, while brushing away the perceived insult. "Father, never really granted me the same opportunities as my new patron does. Did you kno - I was so angered by your hubris that day, that in my more foolish mortal life, I would spend weeks at a time, agonizing over your plans and my own, your battle records. Convinced that, given the opportunity, I could outshine you with a fortress that you could never crack. But now that my patron has given me the tools to fulfill my desire, I see the truth. I was not your rival, I never existed. In your mind, I was a projection of your own sins. You once accused me of recklessly throwing legionaries at walls, and yet..." The Primarch Waved his hands around his ruined Citadel, "here we are at the site of my ruined walls. Leveled only by the Fine Skulls of your Legionaries. That ruthless obstinence is not my failure, it’s yours. Do you know what I have realized, My dear Brother Rogal? For so long, my mind was obsessed over designs for "the perfect fortress" it was my obsession, my dream, i would build the best Fortress. Then I realized my folly. There is no best fortress, whether we build them with sticks like our ancestors, or Rockcrete and Adamantium, they are all built with the same purpose. Do you know what that purpose is?"

"A Strong Fortress is one the enemy can't break" said Rogal flatly, throughout the Labyrinth, The Imperial Fists were finishing off the few remaining demons, and attempting to find where Perturabo's transmission was coming from. Dorn awaited their response

"NO" Roared Perturabo with a bellowed, triumphant laugh."I knew you would say that, I used to say that as well, after all."
"All fortresses are pregnable, Rogal, with enough time and resources. Ancient Troy fell through trickery. Qunstinable Fell through treason, Jibralter fell through Technology, and Nova Yorik fell through the unruliness of its own citizens. Just as Terra falls now due to the negligence of its Defenders. It is the duty of any fortification not to be impregnable, but to make the cost of breaking it so high the enemy is either deterred or exhausted. To be so costly, that it is not worth the treasure inside. And if that is true, the ultimate fortress, my brother, is not one that can't be besieged, it is one not worth seiging at all."

"And That, my ever-obstinate brother, is your greatest failure. Perhaps you are right, maybe there is some design of yours I could never break. But I never needed to, perhaps, like Illium of Old I just used my Ulysses to open the Gates. All i needed was its great Hector, Rogal Dorn, tied away long enough for the defenses to falter. Terra has fallen without my involvement. Now Im content enough to not care, but I know you do, just as I know in your heart you think you could siege any fortress I built. No matter how meticulous my design, you would find a way to tear it down, whatever the cost. You have to, that's why you projected onto me, your pathetic shadow. So obsessed are you with your ability to build and siege, that, like me, you could never comprehend, never even conceive of the idea that a fortress would cost too much to crack. That it is not worth the treasure inside. Well here it is, Rogal. Here is the heart of my Fortress. An Ancient Planet-destroying Bomb from the Dark Age of Technology, much like the one that has detonated on Terra in your absence. I set it to detonate in 100 days, but that was the day before you came here, about ...99 days, 16 hours and 55 minutes ago. I do hope you remember the way out Rogal and your legion is ready for a lively sprint, as I am afraid I am not here to show you the door. Good Luck dear Brother."

Holographic Projection of Perturabo at the heart of the Labyrinthine, Continent-Spanning Fortress of Olympia. During the Events of the Great Treachery

MedHammer 40,000

The Great Treachery (IE The Lorgar Letdown)

Term for Lorgar Letdown

Rough Timeline of The Great Betrayal

Before The Heresy

The Fall of MacCragge

The Aximand Uprising

Suggestion For The Drop-Site Massacre

Lorgar and Alpharius’ Evil SchemeTM

Failures of The Betrayal

Khan-Gulliman Broship

Bel`akor

Gulliman wrecks Steps 6 and 7

Luther and Khorne wreck Steps 9, 11, and 12

What was Alpharius Thinking?

Aftermath of The Great Treachery (Lorgar Letdown)

Toll of The Great Treachery

Council of Terra

Primarchs at The Council of Terra

Descision:The Fate of The Imperium

Descision:The Fate of The Legions

Decision: The Fate of The Imperial Truth

Council of Nikea and Psykers

The Terran Creed

Religion

Chaos after The Great Treachery

Fate of Lorgar

Fate of Angron

Fate of Mortarion

Fate of Corax

Fate of Perturabo

Codex Astartes

Creation of The Codex Astartes

Composition of The Codex Astartes

Codex Sections

Rules for Post First Founding Chapters

Index Astartes and Regula Astartes

Chapter Foundings

First Founding

Second Founding (ie The Penitential Founding)

Fourth Founding or "The Phoenecian Founding"

Fifth Founding or "The Corvidae Founding"

Sixth Founding or "The Dornian Founding"

Legione Astartes

Legio I - The Dark Angels

Legio V - The White Scars

Legio VIII - The Night Lords

Legio IX - The Blood Angels

Legio X - The Iron Hands

Legio XVI - The Luna Wolves

Legio XVIII - The Salamanders

Retired Legions

Legio III - The Emperor's Children

Legio VI - The Space Wolves

Legio VII - The Imperial Fists

Legio XIII - The Ultramarines

Legio XV - The Thousand Sons

Non-Astartes Forces

Imperium Auxillia

Segmentum Gaurd

Segmentum Obscura

Segmentum Tempestus

Ultramar Forces

Imperial Dragoons

Maccragge's Memorial Fleet

Mechanicum Forces

Imperium Government post-Treachery

Triumviratus Homines Posterite

Meeting of The Triumvirate

Observation Roles

Terran Leadership

Constantine Valdor: Magisterium Maxima

Horus: Legiarch

Sanguinius: The High Regent

Jaghatai Khan: “The Book-Keeper”

Konrad Curze: “The Emperor's Executioner”

Ferrus Manus: Ministorum Physicalis

Fulgrim: Ministorum Vitalis

Magnus: Ministorum Arcanae

Segmentum Primarchs

Lorgar and Alpharius’ Evil Scheme^TM