"I heard you managed to impress those pretentious Tech-Priests?"
When Perturabo, under the escort of the Custodians, entered the chamber where the Emperor had summoned him, the Emperor was examining a piece of craftsmanship placed upon a table.
After delivering the Fourth Primarch to the Emperor, the Custodian Tribune offered a salute and withdrew, leaving the room to the Primarch and his father.
Perturabo had no doubt that these Custodians were tasked with monitoring his every word and action to report back to his father. He was still unsure whether this was a direct order from the Emperor or the Custodians' own initiative; he had seen plenty of instances where they acted on their own authority.
Upon seeing his son enter, the Emperor of Mankind spoke, His voice carrying a hint of ease and lightheartedness.
"Yes. When I demonstrated the mechanical aptitude You bestowed upon me before those arrogant red-robes, they were stunned. I saw in their eyes the same awe and devotion that usually only appears when You manifest in person."
"It is safe to say they now firmly believe in the fact that I am a Son of the Omnissiah, sharing the power and wisdom of Your incarnation."
Hearing his genetic father's inquiry, the Iron Tsar of Kislev gave a cold snort and replied, his voice tinged with the pride of a victor.
"Excellent, excellent." The Emperor nodded slightly, seemingly appreciative of His son's actions.
"Although the red-robed priests of the Mechanicus view me as the Avatar of the Omnissiah and hail me as their sovereign, in truth, we both know they still seek to preserve their own influence."
"Your victory makes those proud Tech-Priests believe more firmly in the reality of my status. It ensures their deeper loyalty to the Imperium and the Great Crusade. This is a benefit with no drawback."
The Emperor explained the political context while continuing to handle the small artifact in His hands. The Iron Tsar listened in silence.
"So, You allow them to view You as the incarnation of a deity without stopping them," Perturabo said. His voice was devoid of emotion, as if he were merely stating a neutral observation.
"Perturabo, my son. Sometimes, the world is not simply black and white."
"Indeed, I oppose all gods. I intend to bring reason and science to humanity. However, this is not something that happens overnight; it is a long and arduous struggle."
The Master of Mankind finally stopped His hands and looked up at Perturabo, explaining slowly.
"Though this cult that worships a machine god is superstitious, they possess a highly sophisticated industrial system and a vast hoard of knowledge. If they can be peacefully integrated into the Imperium, allowing their wealth and power to serve the Great Crusade, then such compromises are worthwhile."
"Fortunately, I have successfully navigated this compromise, allowing them to join this magnificent cause," the Emperor added.
A complex expression crossed Perturabo's face. He clearly did not entirely agree with his father's logic, but after a moment of internal struggle, he chose not to comment further.
"I understand, Father. I will say no more on the matter," Perturabo replied with a sigh.
"So, Perturabo, my scion. What have you learned during your days on Terra?" the Emperor asked, nodding in approval.
"I have felt it directly. As the homeworld of humanity, no matter how many brutal conflicts and massive regressions it has endured... Terra still possesses many things that Kislev cannot match in a short time."
"If possible, I intend to organize the noble youths of Kislev to come to Terra and Mars to study more profound sciences and technologies. Only then can Kislev take the next step forward."
Perturabo lowered his head in thought for a moment before looking up to answer.
"Is that so? Among the Primarchs, you are the first I have seen who is so eager to change his homeworld. As far as I know, your other brothers who have returned are not particularly keen on transforming their origins."
The Emperor raised an eyebrow, showing a flicker of surprise.
"Yes, Father. I wish to transform my homeworld into an industrial world better suited to bearing the burden of the Great Crusade. I saw the immense productivity of Mars as a Forge World. I saw with my own eyes how those God-Machines are born. I want Kislev to possess that capability."
"Therefore, Father, I hope You will allow the Adeptus Mechanicus to assist Kislev in building the necessary industrial facilities. I also wish for the Gloriana-class battleship You gifted me to be completed in Kislev. I want to use it to stimulate Kislev's shipbuilding capacity."
Perturabo spoke with increasing urgency, sounding like a child asking a father for a favorite toy.
"I see. You wish for your homeworld to better support your Legion and the Great Crusade."
"That is no great issue; it is a simple matter to arrange. Given the prestige you have established on Mars, those Tech-Priests will be more than willing to serve the one they consider the Son of the Omnissiah."
The Emperor nodded, understanding exactly what His son desired.
"Then I shall be most grateful," Perturabo replied.
"Finally, Perturabo. Do you know why I summoned you here today?" the Emperor asked.
"Was it not because I impressed those arrogant Tech-Priests on Mars? Is there another reason?" Perturabo frowned, not expecting there to be more to the summons.
"Yes. It concerns your Legion."
"They have recently fought a battle. Though they were victorious, they suffered heavy casualties. At this time, they need you—their genetic father," the Emperor said.