Kardja approved of Rostov II's atmosphere. This young Imperial world brimmed with devout faith in the Emperor. Though Astartes like him didn't fully embrace it, even Kardja admitted faith was a potent weapon against Chaos corruption in this era.
For mortals, unwavering devotion to the Emperor was often their only defense against Chaos.
It didn't wholly prevent corruption, but Kardja's years battling Chaos showed him countless mortals resisting its taint through faith alone.
Thus, he commended Rostov II's religious fervor.
However, mortals often lacked proper methods to counter Chaos, relying on faith and loyalty alone. This could lead loyal Imperial citizens to glimpse Chaos, believe they've triumphed, yet remain unaware of their own corruption.
Decades or centuries later, even after their deaths, their records could still spread Chaos taint.
This was why Grey Knights enforced strict purges, eliminating all witnesses.
"Some may question your right to destroy 10 billion souls. But those who understand know you have no right to let them live."
Though harsh, this was the Grey Knights' grim reality. They knew their methods were brutal, but they had no choice but to purge even those who fought loyally beside them.
This was partly why Kardja came to Rostov II. Preventing Chaos outbreaks could save more lives.
"Silver hexagrams offer some protection against heretical evil, and devout faith is a mortal's shield against Chaos, but these alone aren't enough," Kardja told Grand Sister Eliza and Rachel of the Holy Rose Convent, sharing knowledge on resisting Chaos.
He didn't explain why, only how.
"Book censorship must be strict. An Imperial world once fell after centuries of subtle heretical images and texts in books," he said simply, conveying the danger without revealing Chaos secrets.
Preventing Chaos spread had many methods, but the most effective was stopping all related information, as even trivial details could spark corruption.
Rachel, following Alex's orders, took this seriously. "Rostov II strictly reviews publications per the Administratum. I'll tighten scrutiny to prevent any heretical spread," she vowed.
"The convent will regularly patrol the planet, sparing no heretic," Eliza pledged.
"Well done. Eternal vigilance counters evil," Kardja replied, not demanding more. He planned a booklet on anti-heresy methods for mortals. "I'll compile a guide on countering heretical threats—a gift and a duty. Use it well."
"We will. It'll be part of our training, ensuring every Sister learns to fight heresy," Eliza vowed, her face radiating devotion and resolve.
"The Sisters' faith is trustworthy," Kardja nodded. Even Grey Knights had fought alongside Battle Sisters, whose devotion was their strongest armor against Chaos.
Sadly, not all mortals shared such resolute faith. Most needed protection from those who bore the burden.
As these thoughts crossed his mind, Kardja noticed a young Sister in the hall's corner, clutching a document, watching them with curious innocence.
He smiled to Eliza. "Perhaps we should end this dull, serious talk. That young Sister seems to have something for you."
Eliza turned, spotting Figsin hesitating with the document, and beckoned her over.
Blushing, Figsin approached, saluting. "Sorry, Grand Sister, I didn't mean to interrupt you and the Emperor's Angel, but Instructor Olivia sent me with this document."
Eliza nodded, took the file, glanced at it, and said, "Understood. Tell Olivia to proceed as planned."
"Yes, Grand Sister." Figsin saluted Eliza, Kardja, and Rachel before leaving.
As Figsin departed, Rachel spoke. "Master Kardja, Grand Sister Eliza, shall we continue?"
"Yes, let's visit the vineyard," Eliza said, eyes gleaming with zeal. "The Holy Blessed Grapes grow there—the planet's greatest treasure, a gift and blessing from the Emperor!" She chanted a brief hymn praising Him.
Kardja listened, intrigued. The hymn carried a faint but real holy power, distinct from warp-born psychic energy.
(End of Chapter)