After destroying the Thonaris shipyards, Manford Torondo brings the battered remnants of his Butlerian fleet to Salusa Secundus. Although the fleet has lost more than sixty ships, its arrival at Zimia Spaceport is meant as a display of force. Manford broadcasts his version of events, presenting Thonaris as proof of a dangerous machine resurgence and of Josef Venport’s treachery.

Manford’s followers release edited images of the robotic factories and the devastated shipyards. Having decided that no collaborators deserve mercy, Manford takes pride in the bombardment that reduces Thonaris to debris, though Josef Venport has escaped. Manford then petitions for a new Landsraad vote to replace the one previously interrupted by a bomb threat, and his fleet’s presence helps secure a quick hearing.

Over the next two weeks, Butlerian forces entrench themselves in Zimia, gather signatures, and intimidate citizens into open support. On the day of the vote, Manford stages a symbolic entrance into Landsraad Hall, riding on Anari Idaho’s shoulders and accompanied by Gilbertus Albans and banners honoring Rayna Butler, Serena Butler, and Manion.

Manford is angered to find nearly half the Landsraad seats empty, realizing many representatives are avoiding the vote to protect themselves or preserve ties to Venport Holdings. Still, Manford demands that those present declare themselves either righteous or enemies of humanity. Emperor Salvador reluctantly stands and urges support for Manford’s resolution.

Under pressure, the Landsraad passes a sweeping resolution against technology considered too sophisticated, tempting, or dangerous. Manford then pushes Salvador to establish a Committee of Orthodoxy to define acceptable and unacceptable technology and enforce compliance, offering Butlerian assistance. Salvador, already cowed, agrees.

Outside the hall, Manford receives the cheers of a massive Butlerian crowd. Anari believes the movement will grow stronger, but Manford recognizes that the resolution is only the beginning. Because people still depend on convenience, Manford concludes that righteousness must be imposed by any means necessary.