A Difference in Opinion

Lukas narrowed his eyes at his brother. They may have been equal in age, but there had been an unspoken rule among the Primarchs. Those found by the Emperor first were considered 'older'. They had spent more time with their father, more time on campaign, and had earned greater renown.

All of this Lukas ignored as he declared, "No."

Theoderaf, Lord of the Red Eyes Legion, raised an eyebrow. "No?"

Lukas' finger tapped on the civilian population centre currently the object of their attention. "We will not strike at the civilians."

Theoderaf scowled. "Surely you can agree that if they take up arms against us, death is the only recourse."

"I'm not referring to impromptu militia," Lukas explained. "I am referring to the civilian government officials. They are to be spared and to stand trial."

"A waste of time," Theoderaf barked. "They have chosen resistance against the Great Crusade and will pay the price for it. It is imperative that all are held accountable to wipe the slate clean. Extending mercy will only jeopardize progress as it will allow rebel elements to ferment and grow. Better that they all be replaced by men who can be trusted, who have proven themselves to the Imperium and our glorious overlord."

Theoderaf had possessed a reputation for zealotry towards the Emperor well-established before Lukas had been found. It had been a trait he was wary of and had not looked forward to witnessing.

Thus far, it was as off-putting as he thought it would be.

"With so much spilled blood, we will poison the ground. That will yield the rebel elements you seek to eliminate."

With a curt chop of his hand, Theoderaf declared, "Enough. I am the senior commander of this campaign and will conduct it accordingly. And I will not hear of this misplaced compassion any longer. Am I clear?" [[Category:A]]