"The Librarian question has troubled us for a long time, but all divisions will be eliminated here." Malcador clenched his speech notes and looked around the private boxes on the lower level.
The attendants had already led Nimrod and the others to their assigned box, where they waited for their turn to speak.
"Some believe sorcery is the greatest threat we face in ruling the galaxy."
"Others disagree. They firmly believe these accusations arise from ignorance and fear."
He infused his words with conviction. "This is indeed the greatest crisis facing the Imperium, and it must be resolved before we continue upon our great crusade."
"We must never suffer internal strife."
Malcador straightened and looked around.
"Then which of you will speak first?"
"I will." The rough voice came from the box opposite the Shadow of Order.
He wore a snarling wolf's head, the giant wolf's two forelegs draped across his chest.
He carried a long staff over one shoulder, his mechanical leg striking the ground.
He crossed the amphitheater, stood at the foot of the Emperor's dais, and removed his wolf-head helm. "I am Othere Wodmek of the Space Wolves. I once fought alongside the Shadow of Order on Stafford Prime and Indra-Sur."
"I declare that Sanchez and his kind are warlocks who use dark powers, that every one of them is a wizard who abuses unclean magic."
"I swear that all I have said is the truth."
He looked all around. The members of the Council of Terra on the dais murmured among themselves and cast glances toward the Shadow of Order.
Malcador struck the ground with his scepter, focusing everyone's attention on him.
"Othere Wodmek, you are bringing terrible accusations against a brother Legion."
Wodmek turned toward the Shadow of Order, his face twisted with hatred.
Nimrod