Dedication
To Marc – for lighting the spark
- To Bobby & Sven – for the best beta reading I could have wanted
- To Tobi – for patient listening in a hostile environment
Known Canon Breaches
I Did it on Purpose
Other than the canon demands, the Space Marines I describe lack the ribcage, fused into a solid block. Their ribs are stronger and broader, overlapping each other but they are still able to move in the natural pattern known from humans. I chose to commit this breach because I am utterly convinced that the Emperor would have a deep understanding of anatomy and design His warriors with full lung capacity.
Lord Emperor, I failed you. I could not bring myself to implement the Imperial system. I’m too German I guess… Forgive the humble sinner and let her live on in a well measured world.
Yep. They’re Women.
The official WH40k canon says that the seed of the Emperor is that of a man and therefore reserved for men alone. Nice ditch you dug yourself there, guys… Playing with girls is the fashion now, you know?
So here comes science to the rescue! A small percentage of the population is born with a male genotype but due to a mutation in their testosterone receptors their body does not change from the initial female state of the foetus.
It means they have an XY chromosome pair but their body literally ignores this. Since testosterone can be metabolised to oestrogen, the body of these people develops outwardly female.
The usual complications like partial metamorphosis, developed testicles that still sit inside the body and such like, I have ignored for the sake of this narrative.
I know for a fact that I’m not the only one who has been longing for female Space Marines and so it is my pleasure to say to Jesse and all his comrades in desire: You’re welcome!