"Why did it have to be that place?"
"I must respectfully remind you, Minister of Administration, that all of Nightblade's actions are classified. Only the Prime Minister may question them openly."
He said, trying to restrain his anger, then gestured toward the seated representative of the Three Witches Society.
"Lady Hesula, you have his assurance that Kairos will be protected at all costs—the Dreaming Forest must not fall."
The witch nodded, pressed her hands together before her chest, and lowered her head.
"Indeed."
"But if the execution of general order is to be maintained, even when the Orks breach the Western Line Bastion, then Nightblade must have a secure and stable base outside the Dreaming Forest."
Hesula sighed.
"We have all heard this before, Head of Nightblade. You intend to turn Kairos into a fortress, a self-sufficient stronghold."
"Madam—"
He replied, staring at her coldly.
"I believe this is not merely my own opinion. When that moment comes, I would rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it."
The Minister of Finance leaned back in his chair.
"This is not a question of need or worth. It is simply a matter of priorities. If the Orks break through the defensive lines and arrive at our doorstep—will you protect us then? Will your Nightblade stand between the Greenskins and the walls of this Parliament?"
"I have told you—we are enforcers, not a military force."
"And yet you conduct yourselves as though you are suited to be one."
The Imperium's Minister of Culture muttered, and Nutans immediately turned to look at him.
Before anyone's anger could erupt, Yalvido raised his scepter and slammed it against the stone floor.
"Order, friends."
He shouted.
"Let us have some order."
Fortunately, Nutans sat back down and did not press