Warhammer 40,000's Terminus Decree Mystery Finally Revealed

It stands as one of the Warhammer 40,000 universe's greatest unresolved enigmas — or at least, it was. Through a newly released codex, Games Workshop has now unveiled the true purpose of the hotly debated Terminus Decree — and many dedicated Warhammer 40,000 lore enthusiasts aren't exactly thrilled.

For those unfamiliar, the Terminus Decree represents the final directive given to the Grey Knights, arguably the most enigmatic Space Marine chapter in the lore. This order was issued just before the Emperor was interred within the Golden Throne, after he suffered fatal wounds from Warmaster Horus during the conclusion of the Horus Heresy.

(Want to understand more about the Emperor's present… condition? Take a look at this piece here.)

The concept is that only the Supreme Grand Master of the Grey Knights is permitted to open the Terminus Decree and learn what this ultimate command requires. It essentially acts as a 'break in case of emergency' Pandora’s box — and for years, Warhammer 40,000 followers have speculated about its contents.

Now, with the launch of the new Grey Knights codex — a volume filled with deep lore, images of tabletop miniatures, and updated gameplay rules — Games Workshop has for the first time disclosed what the Terminus Decree actually entails.

Warning! Spoilers for Warhammer 40,000 lore ahead: