The latest episode in the Warhammer+ series “Tithes” delves deeper into the heart of the Imperium’s grim reality. In “Harvest,” we explore the mechanisms behind the Imperial tithe of psykers—a dark necessity to sustain the Emperor on the Golden Throne.
Atlacoya and the Tithe of Psykers
Introduced last week, Atlacoya, a Sister of Silence, plays a crucial role in the Imperium’s most unsettling task: collecting psykers to feed the Golden Throne. This responsibility falls heavily on the Adeptus Astra Telepathica, who round up psykers across the galaxy. In “Harvest,” we meet a character new to the Warhammer universe, an administrator for the League of Black Ships, the organization responsible for transporting psykers to Terra. These administrators oversee the grim task, aided by the heavy-handed Adeptus Arbites, who enforce the tithe with brutal efficiency, unaware of the true fate that awaits the psykers.
The Power Struggle Within the Imperium
The episode also introduces us to the White Templars, a Chapter of Space Marines tasked with defending their worlds. Yet, their loyalty to the Imperium is often tested by the harsh realities of their duties, especially when confronted by other Imperial forces with competing interests.
The Adeptus Custodes make a striking appearance in the form of Tyrith Shiva Kyrus, the first portrayal of a female Custodian Guard in Warhammer media. Tyrith’s presence underscores the Custodians’ unique authority and combat prowess, which surpass even that of the Space Marines. This portrayal emphasizes that the Custodians are far more than just elite warriors—they are bespoke creations, each one an unparalleled instrument of the Emperor’s will.
Imperial Discord and Its Consequences
“Harvest” sheds light on the often-fractured relationships between various Imperial organizations, despite their shared goal of defending the Imperium. The friction between the Adeptus Astartes, Adeptus Arbites, Adeptus Astra Telepathica, and Adeptus Custodes highlights the complexities and challenges of maintaining unity in the Imperium. These tensions are emblematic of the broader struggles within the Imperium, where overlapping jurisdictions and conflicting priorities can lead to discord and inefficiency, even as they work toward the same end.
A Deeper Dive Into the Custodians
The episode also touches on some of the long-standing mysteries surrounding the Adeptus Custodes. Unlike the mass-produced Space Marines, each Custodian is a unique creation, crafted with unparalleled care and precision. The narrative hints at the deeper motivations and secrets of the Custodians, including their thoughts on the current state of the Imperium and their views on Roboute Guilliman. These elements add layers of intrigue to the already enigmatic Custodes, inviting viewers to ponder the true nature of these warriors in the 41st Millennium.
Tithes Episode 2: Harvest is now available to watch on Warhammer TV, offering a dark and compelling look into the inner workings of the Imperium and the sacrifices made to keep the Emperor’s light burning.
And remember, Frontline Gaming sells gaming products at a discount, every day in their webcart!
