In the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, one of the most brutal training academies is the Schola Progenium – the cradle of the Imperium’s elite. A place of both dread and reverence, it is here that the orphans of those who have given their lives in service to the Emperor are molded into the future bulwarks of the Imperium’s defense and governance.
The journey to becoming a member of the Adeptus Ministorum, the Adeptus Astra Telepathica, or even the hallowed Inquisition, begins with the selection day. This is a pivotal moment etched in the minds of every young cadet, where cavernous void ships descend into planetary orbit, ready to export the Progena to their fated roles. The atmosphere is tense, filled with the slow incantation of ancient litanies and clouds of incense, as the cadets are divided according to their elected path.
Those young women who display not only formidable military skills but also an unwavering faith are prepared to embark on a journey to the training convents of the Adepta Sororitas. The most talented warriors, however, are chosen for the Militarum Tempestus and Aicio Profectus.
Yet, for those who demonstrate a particularly martial and aggressive nature, the Schola reserves its most demanding and perilous training. This is the instruction given to the legendary Astra Militarum and Inquisitorial Tempestus Scions. Stormtrooper training commences immediately after the Schola’s primary educational course, but does not supplant it. After all, potential Tempestor Scions are expected to be more than mere warriors. They are expected to be well-schooled in basic education, Imperial law, and history, while displaying unwavering loyalty to the God-Emperor.
On occasion, an adult individual may be inducted into the Tempestus Scions training course at the behest of a senior official of the Imperium, such as an Inquisitor. In these instances, the drill abbots make no distinction between a barely teenage recruit and a battle-hardened veteran with years of service. When these recruits emerge as full Stormtroopers, they are often removed from their squad and assigned to serve their patron Inquisitor as one of his acolytes.
Being selected to become a Tempestus Scion in this manner is a rare honor, reserved for those who have demonstrated outstanding courage, martial skills, a strong mind resistant to terror and panic, and a deep faith in the Imperial Creed. These exceptional candidates are scrutinized carefully by the drill abbots before being declared fit to train with the Tempestus Scion Progena. They must also undertake rigorous study with the Inquisition to acquire the same knowledge already learned by the other Progena.
While the traditional Progena may not readily accept these outsiders, their potential contribution to the Imperium’s defense cannot be underestimated. They bring with them a wealth of experience and skills, potentially making them invaluable assets in the service of the Emperor.
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