Aun’Va, known as the Ethereal Supreme, is one of the most powerful and revered figures within the T’au Empire in Warhammer 40,000. As the spiritual and political leader of the T’au, he embodies the pinnacle of the Ethereal caste’s philosophy of guiding the T’au towards the ultimate goal of the Greater Good, or T’au’va. Aun’Va’s influence is so vast that he is seen as almost a living god by many T’au, a figure whose words and teachings are regarded with absolute devotion.
The Ethereal caste, to which Aun’Va belongs, is responsible for maintaining the unity of the T’au people and ensuring that all of the castes—Fire, Water, Earth, and Air—work together harmoniously for the benefit of the empire. Aun’Va, as the highest-ranking Ethereal, was instrumental in shaping the T’au Empire’s expansion, guiding its policies and unifying its castes through sheer charisma and unshakable belief in the Greater Good.
Aun’Va’s role is not that of a warrior but rather of a spiritual and ideological guide. He does not lead from the front lines like the commanders of the Fire caste; instead, his presence in battle inspires and emboldens T’au forces, motivating them to fight with renewed vigor. He is carried into battle on a hovering throne known as the Paradox of Duality, surrounded by honor guards, and exudes an aura of calm authority even amidst the chaos of war.
One of Aun’Va’s most significant contributions to the T’au’s survival and expansion was his ability to unite various alien species under the banner of the Greater Good. His diplomatic skills helped integrate races like the Kroot and Vespid into the empire, showing his vision for a unified, cooperative galaxy under T’au leadership. His teachings stress sacrifice for the Greater Good, often pushing the T’au to new heights of ambition and expansion.
However, there is a darker side to Aun’Va’s rule. Some within the galaxy speculate about the true nature of the Ethereal caste’s influence over the T’au, suggesting that their almost hypnotic control over the other castes may be due to a form of psychic power or mind control. This shadow over Aun’Va’s rule raises questions about whether the T’au’s unity is as voluntary as it appears or if it’s driven by something more manipulative.
Aun’Va was ultimately slain during the Damocles Gulf Crusade by Space Marine forces, but his death did not diminish his legacy. His martyrdom only strengthened the belief in the Greater Good, and he continues to be revered as a figure of immense importance within T’au society. His teachings and guidance remain central to the T’au’s philosophy, ensuring that his presence endures even after death.
In essence, Aun’Va represents the pinnacle of T’au leadership—an unwavering belief in a unified destiny and the absolute necessity of the Greater Good, pushing the T’au Empire ever closer to its ideal of galactic harmony under their rule.