>>26838541
As such, you have been given this pitiable task, but it is a task that shall someday help propel you into greatness. You have been assigned the mission of overtaking the rogue world of Le Keers, located in the Meridian Subsector. Of course, in order to do this, you will need to first procure an army. You have a starship, this rather pitiable vessel, and the "courtesy" of the various Munitorium officials that you were able to bully before your departure in terms of munitions and supplies. Bullying that has given you a fair mixture of raw materials and components, which your officers shall use to mold the regiment you create here into a force suitable as the backbone of your future conquests.

Your eyes drift over to the Nestorium-born Magos Sebastian Batt, the pseudo-human Explorator hailing from the high-tech Forge World of Nestorium. His accompaniment in your retinue is thanks in no small part to the fact that he has also incurred displeasure from his peers in the Mechanicus, as far as can be determined, though he is silent on reasons for such. His tech-priests and those that came with him are similarly silent but, for all intents and purposes, appear to be unwaveringly loyal to the senior Adeptus Mechanicus agent. He seems to have no outwardly human components, his eyes green augmentic lenses, his mouth replaced with a brass grille that occasionally emits a small puff of smoke.

His torso is obscured beneath his red robe, and every other part of him appears augmentic that has been seen thus far, including the mechadendrites that gently slither and twitch from his back. He carries no armaments, but that is because they are unnecessary: His body is, in all likelihood, a weapon to rival even your own talents.

>>26838551
The bridge itself, though old, has been brought up to some modicum of decorum for your presence. Silk ribbons hang along the tops of the viewscreens, the servitors manning various consoles freshly cleaned, and even the slave-serfs appear to have been dressed in more formal attire. A large canister of recaff has been set out on a gilded trolley, alongside an assortment of hors d'oeuvres, a pair of Lord Commissar Kennoch's more promising students standing on duty as valets and added security in addition to the bridge crew.

You glance over to the hololith that takes up the center of the bridge. Originally intended to assist in helping with the planning of invasions, particularly the deployment of the transport's numerous craft, the fact that the countless Devourer-class dropships sitting in the void of the ship's open decks are empty has rendered it rather useless. It simply displays information on the recruitment world, Vitalitas, in a bland green color. The planet's surface, a series of vast woodlands rarely interrupted by a town, fills the air. There's only six actual "Cities" on the entire planet, and none of them remotely close to what even an Agri-World might boast. It was a dying planet reliant upon timber, and neglected by the Imperium for so long.

Until now. The data hangs upon the air, pending further inquiries of the ship's cogitators, which have been loaded with information of the sector's various planets and factions. Information free for you to peruse at your leisure, should you deign to view it.

However, you are now left to decide just what to investigate next. You have a pending invitation to visit Vitalitas Prime, where the Council of Workers has invited you to a rather large, pompous, and entirely unnecessary gala to celebrate your arrival and for the planetary leaders to present whatever rabble they have mustered for their planet's Founding.

>>26838551
>Meridian
Blood Ravens?

>>26838566
>Gather information (Please specify what/who from)
>Begin landfall procedures for Vitalitas Prime
>Rebuke the political pleasantries of the locals
>Accept the invitation
>Demand to meet with the bodies of those who shall form your regiment.
>Other?

>>26838572
You are not aware of the Blood Ravens being involved in this sector-- it is a subsector of the Deus Sector, but you are aware that this sector has played host to the Ghosts of Retribution, a rather infamous Astartes Chapter of the Raven Guard, loyal to the Imperium. Their homeworld, Mormark, is in the core worlds of the Deus Subsector (so named after the sector itself).

>>26838574

>Accept the invitation

We'll need to play the game in order to build a mighty force to do battle in the Emperor's name.

If attending some pompous, unnecessary gala makes this Council look good and allows us to gain favor with them, so be it.

>>26838566
What do we have in the way of Arm Candy for outings like that gala? We got any women around who are lookers? We have to look as successful and awesome as we are.

>>26838574
>Accept the invitation

lets figure out who to not piss off and who to humiliate first, then

>Demand to meet with the bodies of those who shall form your regiment.

>>26838662
something every good Lord General needs, a sexy yet harsh Colonel ready to kick arse on the battlefield and ball room floor

>>26838662
>>26838702

ah, the double-edged sword.

If we have arm candy, she could open social doors for us, but also close others.

We'd have to remember to retain rank/professional attitude, so as not to give anyone further ammo on us, as well.

>>26838751
>We'd have to remember to retain rank/professional attitude

But of course, we are a professional, but also a man of class, there is a time and place for all things

>>26838631
>>26838682
You could, should social events bore you, delegate to send one of your staff in your stead. It is an acceptable custom, at least in the High Gothic Imperial circles, to utilize such gentlemen as "Champions" of important Imperial dignitaries. Such is usually reserved for figures of truly grandiose importance, such as Lord Governors and Subsector Lords. A Lord General might be stretching it, but you're certain that your officers are deft enough to handle such occasions. Sending the Magos might be a bit of a backhanded insult, but it'd likely curry favor with any pro-Mechanicus elements in the Council of Workers.

Sending the Lord Commissar, on the other hand, is sure to woo many, but his tendency and natural air of authority (and often, it is intimidation) may also strike a bit of fear into the locals.

>>26838851
>>26838662
>>26838702
>>26838751
>>26838764
A very interesting set of concerns. You contemplate your options of just who might be a madame to escort you.

>Sister Superior Ath Lorent of the Order of Bloody Tears. A Sister of Battle attached to your Ministorium/Ecclesiarchy services, intended to help protect Ministorium Chaplain Roland Sclar, who is currently finishing a vigil in the ship's chapel for safe transit. Having her on your arm is a bold move in many respects, which the Sister might object to, but the statement of power and prowess it would express would certainly cause a flurry of words and rumors to proceed you amongst the locals.
>One of the Lord Commissar's acolytes. Political savvy is a necessary element in any Commissariat cadet's training, and one of the female cadets could likely prove more than sufficient to be your escort for the evening. This could serve to strengthen your ties with the officers... Or alienate them, depending on your style of command, but it will doubtlessly strengthen your ties with the very people responsible for maintaining order in the ranks.
>Go "stag". You depart with open arms, and will be sure to attract many women desiring you as their suitor. Sure to cause a bit of infighting between whatever factions exist in the Council, but the women themselves shall likely throw themselves at you, nevermind the fact that you will be able to curry favor with whoever you wish by accepting their daughter at your arm.

>>26838856
lets take the Sister Superior, always good to have a representative of the Ecclesiarchy at hand

>>26838856

Voting for Stag.

The Emperor's militant servants are not suitable arm candy.

>>26838856
Go alone, aim high.

>>26838856
I'll second the vote for Stag, lets see what this planet has to offer

and with that, I must sleep, I look forward to reading up on this when I awake

>>26838856
SoB is best option. completely professional of course, but its important to have personal relationships with other commanders.

>>26839044
>>26839041
>>26838946
>>26838912
>>26839095
>3:2

You elect to go alone. You are, however, given the brief and amusing, albeit terrifying, mental image of the Sister Superior in full combat armor, attempting to make pleasantries with the same sort of scowl she gives heretics she's in the process of carving in half with her chain weapon of choice. You do suspect, deep down, that she might appreciate that she-- as a warrior-- wasn't forced into such a political event.

Since you don't need to get a date as such prepared from your own staff, preparations go rather smoothly. You turn to the Lord Commissar, his expression both knowing and amused.

"I shall be attending to the Council's request for a meeting." You inform him, to which the man nods and smiles, already knowing what you plan to say next.

"I shall have the potential troops mustered, sir, and have the serfs load the equipment they shall be armed with. Unless you wish otherwise, I will put them through the basic paces myself as you... Plant your roots." The Commissar's expression is as professional as ever, but you know a well-humored joke when you see him slip one in.

Regardless, you return to your own chambers, the quarters traditionally reserved for the ship's captain aboard the ship. The overly large bed and abundance of empty space (likely where Unwerth had once kept illicit Xeno artifacts and baubles of interest) serve well to host your respectable stockpile of weaponry and wardrobe.

You grab your ceremonial sword and bolt pistol, attaching them at your waist. You also slip on a fashionable flak greatcoat, utilized-- so you're told-- upon the fortress world of Ewa Geema. Your underlying carapace breastplate, polished to a void-black shine, is complimented by your reinforced boots. Silk dances over your skin as your battledress is complete with the aid of the captain's personal servitor. Originally intended to help him get dressed, it serves quite well-- and likely much faster-- for you.

>>26839205
wat do?

>>26839205
Test your sword's edge on the servitor. No need to damage the mechanics, just the nonessential fleshy bits.

>>26839205
From there, it is a slow walk to the forward launch deck. Though designed to be open to the void, the ship's crew were graceful enough to construct a pressurized, domed pathway to the Aquila Lander sitting near the middle of the launch bay. The other Valkyrie gunships and transports parked around the edges of the bay are tended to by serfs in void suits, the crews preparing to deploy the very craft that shall soon return with holds full of new Guardsmen.

The Lander's interior is rather lavishly appointed, as is standard for the shuttlecraft of choice for Navy officers. Pompous, spoiled brats, the lot of them. Still, you hardly object to the free amasec you're served on the flight down to the planet's surface. Looking through the domed cockpit during the trip down, you're able to see the massive, towering forests that the hololith so poorly represented. One hundred and eighty million souls live on the world below.

My, how beautiful it truly is. Even more beautiful is the large clearing outside of Vitalitas Prime, where a number of ferrocrete structures have been erected, as well as a small sea of canvas tents and other military-style buildings. A PDF base, or at least part of one, the edges of the forest having encroached upon its perimeter and attempting to seep up from below.

The mustering grounds, in all probability. Still, your own shuttle diverts towards the primary "Council Hall" of the capital city, the rest of the dropships and transports shrieking from the heavens towards the mustering fields. As your pilot warns you of your approach, you're aware that you need to think of your political gameplan.

>Wine and dine the locals to get a feel for the situation.
>Attempt to curry favor with the most powerful person, or persons, there.
>Assert Imperial authority over them all. This world is loyal to the Imperium, but should be reminded of that.
>Have a dandy time for yourself, and plenty of company for the evening.
>Other?

>>26839264
Why attack our servitor when we already know our ceremonial stuff?

>>26839283
>Wine and dine and go from there.

>>26839283
>Wine and dine the locals to get a feel for the situation.
followed by
>Have a dandy time for yourself, and plenty of company for the evening.

>>26839259
>Apologies, was writing the remainder of the next post. Took a bit longer than expected.

>>26839264
Your weapon is a naval cutlass made from Lathe steel, with a power field generator embedded in the hilt. It is an exquisite weapon that was bestowed upon you by the Magos, in exchange for accepting him as part of your retinue so long ago. It could, needless to say, cleave the servitor clean in half. The fact that it possesses a beautiful artistic quality that makes it indistinguishable from purely ceremonial weaponry is simply a boon.

>>26839303
sounds good, seconded

>>26839283
Wine, dine, but most importantly, ingratiate.

>>26839295
>>26839303
>>26839318
>>26839329
You elect to do your best to wine-and-dine the locals. Your arrival goes rather splendidly as you arrive with a glass of amasec in hand, offering some lesser Councilman a firm handshake with your gloved hand.

Your free hand soon becomes occupied with a hand-rolled cigar, and a gilded lighter carried by a cherub soon ensures you have both something to smoke and drink. Your laughter is boisterous, and you make your way through the crowds. The palace itself is rather puny in comparison to the massive houses that even lesser nobles possess on other worlds. Still, the amasec is plentiful, and everyone seems eager to hoist their daughters on you, or have their sons make great friends with you in the hopes of attaining some sort of additional status. The women's dresses are cut as low as modesty and aristocracy's good taste will allow, and even then, maybe a few inches lower. Hair beautifully braided up with plenty of guilding.

You keep your eyes peeled, though, seeing just who to associate with... And schmooze.

>Fellowship test at +20 for first contact and wining and dining the Council at large, test vs 58. Best of three.

Rolled 60

>>26839365
Rolling.

>>26839283

>Other: Wine and dine the locals, speak of Imperial Duty when asked about yourself, be a gentleman to all of the ladies.

Rolled 96

>>26839365
onward to failure!

Rolled 48

>>26839365

Charming Bastard Mode: Engage!

>>26839406
you saved us congrats!

we meant to be rolling high or low?

>>26839428
Rolling low.

>>26839433
not seeing where OP said that, but either way we pass

>>26839428
>Low, as is common in RT/DH/Other such systems.

>>26839406
>>26839393
>>26839376
>>26839390
You... May have indulged a bit too much in the amasec. However, all those years at the Schola Progenium were hardly for naught. Even though you accidentally spill a bit of amasec down the bosom of a lovely young lady trying to court you, and subsequently stain her dress (which she mentions, in a pained-yet-forcefully-pleasant-voice, cost somewhere in the area of 600 Thrones), you still have a rather jolly time.

"Lord General, I'm sure it must be absolutely -fascinating- to see the galaxy in such a way." One woman remarks, unafraid of your slightly rosy cheeks, idly toying a finger on the breastplate of your carapace. "No wonder you have such a -hard- cut to you..." She teases.

"It is simply my duty, miss." You remark proudly, your words slipping expertly around the cigar in your mouth. "It is the Imperial Duty of us all to serve. Each in our own ways, of course." You add a bit seductively, smiling at her.

"You know, Lord General, daddy always said that the Imperium would help rebuild our world someday." She goes on to say. What was her name? Ah! Hardly matters. You'll just call her Angel, and that'll be smooth enough.

"Is that so?"

"Oh, yessir, he goes on and on about how there's all these untapped resources, just waitin' to be used. Not my area of interest, though." She bites her lower lip, which prompts several other women waiting to get your attention to give her stares that would put melta blasts to shame.

"Really? I think I'd like to meet your father..."

>>26839608
Such is the flow of conversation, in several different forms, as the events go on. As far as you can determine, the populace is very loyal to the Imperium. There's an undercurrent of just how lavish an event has been put on, and that without further aid from the Imperium, it will likely be the last major party they ever throw, heavily hinting at the hope for further support. There's also some griping on how every life is precious, especially those being recruited in the Founding.

You also manage to overhear a bit of discussion on how local industries are struggling without additional supplies, since spare parts are hard to come by, and most manufactories have been forced to shut down in the last few decades. Not directly, of course, but "lost dynasties" are a common topic amongst the Council, as well as arguments both for and against reforming the Council of Workers. Political grox shit, of course, but you can sift deeper meanings.

You also manage to identify three main parties active in the political arena, each one a bit contentious towards the other.
>The Merchant Guilds: Wish to do away with the harvesting of timber, or at least, what timber is left on Vitalitas, and go directly into mining and metalworking, building up self-sufficient industry at the expense of the fragile ecosystem.
>The Ministorium, which desires the world to continue on its current path, and harmonize closer with the recovering elements of nature, as the recovering ecosystem will lend the world to produce crops in time, and with crops, additional bodies for future Foundings. A reduction of standard of living, just as the Emperor wishes.
>The PDF, which wishes to fortify the world like Ewa Geema's land-based counterpart, considering its long history of survival. If sufficient attention can be drawn to it as a supply depot world and military mustering grounds, the supplies they desperately need to survive and maintain the standard of living are sure to come.

>>26839615
It is up to you how you interact, if at all, with these respective factions, or if you attempt to seek out other groups. As it is, the festivities are beginning to calm down a bit, and a number of hours have passed.

So, an unimportant world in middle of nowhere, barely working as an agri-world, and rich in lumber.

Okay, we need a game plan. We need to establish some cash flow, and fast. Use some resources to establish a lumbering industry, with focus on exquisite craftsmanship. We'll sell beautiful woodwork to the hoity-toity nobles, clear some of the old woodlands so we can establish farms. Let's try to turn this place into at least a functional agri-world, if not a utopia (well, what can be considered an utopia in 40K) like Macragge.

>>26839615
Well the Ministorium got us here.

So fuck them, Militarize this bastard.

>>26839698
couldnt have said it better lol

PDF gets my vote

>>26839615
>Ministorium
The Emperor wills it. These fellows have the right of it.

>>26839615
I think we need to be careful. All of these factions have a point. Perhaps we should try to harmonize them, and make a relatively self-sufficient world. Surely they can see that Unity is needed in His Imperium, and that the Good of Humanity demands that they can balance themselves to be able to provide for both themselves and others.

Just a question OP, what is our authority in this matter? I can imagine we can politik a bit, but beyond the Army, do we have any official authority to make them do things? I'd imagine not, since we're not the Imperial Governor...

>>26839615
We shall build a mighty fortress, and use the resources we have as leverage against the objections of the populace.

>>26839615
Ministorium first, PDF second.
As for the merchants, let's see if they can cut a deal with the Techpriest that came with us - there has to be a way to get some mining going on without damaging the ecosystem.

At best, let's try to balance all the fuckers out.

>>26839615
a PDF is crucial if we want any kind of quality guardsmen in the future. Can't have soldiers without feeding them though. We need to grow crops

>>26839743
I agree with this. We can ameliorate the people in power by giving them land (resource) contracts in exchange for building tanks or training guards (under PDF supervision of course).

Are there mountains on this world?
We could make some mine/factory fortresses inside some of them, and that way appease the merchants and the PDF. The Ministorium gets all the farmlands and woodlands outside of these things.

>>26839627

I don't think we're here to govern the planet, but to raise an army and take it elsewhere.

That said...

I think the factions are thinking poorly, especially the PDF and Ministorium.

Their goals are practically aligned, as a fortress world needs to be able to produce supplies in the form of food for it's population and visiting forces, and they'll need to produce bodies to both provide a garrison force and to supply visiting forces with replacement bodies.

Between the two of them, they could cut out the Merchant Guild, enriching the planet by mining localized resources to fuel industry and fortification projects and then turning exhausted mines into military installations.

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>>26839775
indeed, but we need to be able to equip those forces. i'd say section off the planet into areas. Industrial in the deserts/shitty land, prime land assigned to crops, and let the PDF fortify the cities.

it could make the world a much more valuable addition to the imperium if we balance these factions rather than specializing the planet at the cost of potential future civil strife.

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>>26839615
Depends. Is the world on the Eastern Fringe near Ultramar. Because my vote would go to PDF fortress because pic related.

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>>26839902
'Sector Deus is an Imperial region of space in Segmentum Obscurus, bordering Segmentum Ultima.'
-Chapter Quest wiki

>>26839922
Hmmm... So Orks and Chaos are probably going to be the most common threat and Nids/Eldar/Tau/Crons are going to be minor or nonexistent.

With that in mind I would say... hmmm PDF still.

>>26839615
Try to balance out the interests of all three, but have them lead towards a fortress world.

>>26839861
You've got a point there. Let's try to unite the PDF and the Ministorium under one banner, and let's try to turn this into a self-sustaining fortress world. Large stronghold cities, surrounded by fertile farmlands that can supply both them and the visiting troops with food and supplies.

Also, since the smartest thing would be to appease and balance all three factions, we need to throw the merchants a bone as well. Trading ports should be built (and fortified) near industrial and mining locations. Mining and manufacturing facilities are a must to have on a self-sufficient world, as well as trading routes. However, let's keep these localized in certain areas, and have them use tech that's going to minimize their impact on the ecosystem.

Let's try to balance all three, but give priority to the Ministorium and the PDF. If possible, make them see that their goals overlap and have them join forces.

>>26839742
You are an Imperial Lord General. You are the the mind that wields the many hammers of the Imperial Army, and can send regiment after regiment to war, hundreds of thousands of bodies and boots and machines capable of overwhelming any foe that invokes the Emperor's ire. Even though your objective is the rogue planet of Le Keers, should the government of Vitalitas be offensive enough, you could certainly declare yourself as sole Imperial Lord Governor-General.

"With what army?" Would be the answer, and a very good one, as you have yet to muster even your first regiment. You do not wield direct authority over the government at this point, but only a fool would not take your words with a great deal of consideration.

>>26839841
There are mountains, of a sort. The world was blasted with atomic weaponry during the Horus Heresy, which it is only now beginning to recover from. The massive craters the weapons left could easily be converted into mines/factory sites, if desired.
>>26839627
>>26839731
>>26839758
>3 Ministorium

>>26839790
>>26839775
>>26839743
>>26839706
>>26839698
>4 PDF

>>26839627
>>26839742
>>26839758
>>26839861
>>26839868
>5 "Balance"

You elect, after some deliberations, to try and appease all of the parties. There are certainly some long-standing tensions between the various sides, and your status as a relative newcomer makes things a bit more difficult than might otherwise be expected.

The idea of a compromise has been brought up before, however, the concern lies in that each side views the others as directly infringing on their objectives.

>PDF: The PDF, led by General Remi Dante, believes that the manufactories and farmlands will provide potential invaders with too much purchase, and that the intensive nature of fortifications will require the very resources and byproducts the manufactories require, especially considering how few manufactories there are still functioning with the shortage of spare parts.

>>26840001
The Ministorium views the industrialization of the other two sides as most likely to throw the delicate ecosystem, the Emperor's gift and sole lifeline of this world, into absolute chaos, and poison it irrevocably. They are somewhat amenable to the Merchant's Guild's manufactories proposal, so long as at least part of the production and resources went in to helping tame the wild mutant beasts roaming the wilderness, and cleaning the soil for future harvests.

The Merchant's Guild is somewhat amenable to diverting manufacturing to the PDF's ends, but believes that it ought to maintain control of overall production, and that the Ministorium would hamper its optimal output too much.

All of this reeks of politics, that they could spend hours on. They've already spent the last two discussing it with you one-on-one in an extended game of "Vox." How do you wish to try and bring them to the negotiation table?

>Threats
>Diplomacy
>Bribery
>Other?

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>>26839990
indeed. perhaps our Nestorian Admech dude can help with that. His people are known for their.... adaptability.

i think we might have to make judacious use of our Liasons, especially with this "Council of Workers". they may try to stir up the rabble, so we'll have to throw them a bone as well. perhaps a propaganda campaign with the IG as Adventure, the Mines as Prosperity, and the crops as "traditional life" or something.

>>26839990

>appease and balance all 3

From what it sounds like, the Merchants want to export the mineral resources off-world. That goes counter to the main idea of my plan to unite the PDF/Ministorium and have them use the planet's mineral resources for itself.

That and fuck Merchant Leagues. If it isn't Imperial Guard, Imperial Navy, Ministorium, Sororitas or Astartes, they're leeches feeding off the Emperor's resources.

>>26840009
>Bribery

The big thing here is to establish communications with a world which needs what you have. Then appeal to the greed of whichever faction could use the cash.

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>>26840009
We can command the PDF, as Lord General, so "invite" the PDF guy to our ship.

Merchant's guild... say we want them to talk to our admech guy as well, as his Forgeworld is pretty nifty on stuff.

Ministorium we can get the bolter chick and our head ministorium guy to encourage to come.

if that fails, a small amount of bribery is ok too. not so much that would compromise our future objectives though.

>>26840009
Diplomacy.

We need to stand together in this, or this world will die. The Ministorium cares for its people, yes? Do they want to see them die like cattle instead of proud men and women of the Emperor? And how will the PDF fare without food or supplies the Ministorium provides? And the Merchants? I know you're trying to get rich and take care of you and yours - but that won't mean jack if everything you care for dies from starvation or enemy fire. You're all friends and men of the Emperor, and you've stood together and survived so far despite your constant arguing - imagine what we could achieve if we worked together, like the proud men of Terra did before.

>>26840009
Tell them about how similar world got eaten by the Nids to the galactic east or how some were brutalized by Orks. (Lie) To add merit to your stories look through their history and see what has attacked them and how bad it was.

>>26840092
If it's a forge world, then acquire tanks/weapons to dangle in front of the pdf.

>>26840009

We need the Ministorium and PDF to meet with us.

We go with Diplomacy first.

PDF needs to understand that this world isn't in a strategic enough location to be a supply depot if they aren't producing at least some surplus of food and men to feed the military's needs. If it was a strategic enough location, they'd already be a supply depot.

Ministorium needs to understand that agri worlds are prime targets for enemy forces, especially in this less secure subsector. An agri world that falls to enemy hands in a day is worthless to the Emperor.

With their combined power and likely funding from the wider Ministorium, the two groups can work together in the Emperor's name and eliminate the Merchant Guild's power. They can then go about creating a world that will strengthen the Imperium's hold upon this sector by providing both a defensible position and a supply of food and bodies to then expand that position to reclaim the subsector.

As a bonus, they'll also end up sending the world's resources toward the Emperor's will, instead of the Merchants that answer only to thrones.

>>26840158
>>26840126
These. Diplomacy with an undercurrent of DISASTER

>>26840126
If you can imply that this looming doom is indeed looming and that's why we were sent here in the first place, all the better

>>26840126
Nids have not yet been discovered, I believe OP has mentioned we're currently in 340.M41 in the IRC

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>>26840158
i think we need the Merchants to an extent. curtailing their power is perfectly fine, but if an entire third of the planet's powerbase is unhappy, that will make for a much less unified planet. we need to include the merchants, and make it clear that while we understand the need of Profit they also need to understand the need of the Imperium.

>>26840158
Agreed on the diplomacy part, though we shouldn't try to expunge the merchants. We strive for balance and unity, and having a third of the world hate us and work against us is hardly productive. They'll be the guys providing us with resources and thrones for a while, and possibly some piece of tech. And they can provide us with useful off-world contacts. And I've got this nagging feeling that the Adeptus Mechanicus will possibly join them because of their focus on industry and manufacturing.

Speaking of the Mechanicus, what's their status here? I'd like for our friend to try and develop clean systems that'd help with terraforming other planets - he gets praise as an inventor, we appease both the Ministorium and the Mechanicus, and get additional respect as the dude who helped him achieve his dreams.

>>26840221

>Merchants
>putting the needs of the Imperium over profit

Yeah, how about the merchants do what they're supposed to do? Be middle men that can buy the surplus of a world's produce and sell it somewhere else.

Eliminate them from any planetary holdings so that the worlds resources serve the world and the Imperium first, instead of the merchants providing the world with scraps while their greed destroys the Imperium.

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>>26840268
I completely agree, but they need to feel they're gaining something from all this. make it clear to them (especially if we can get a coalition of PDF and Ministorium) that while profit is acceptable and indeed good, that we will not tolerate anything against the imperium's interests. /anything/.

perhaps having the commisar in on that conversation would be good too.

>>26840268
This. The sooner we can take resources away from the privatized interests and put it into Imperial hands, the better.

In the grim darkness of the 41st Millenium, there is only communism

>>26840198
>Correct, it is currently 340.M41.

>>26840195
>>26840158
>>26840126
>>26840122
>>26840028
It'll take a lot more than fancy words to make this planet into a singular cohesive machine as you wish, but you can get the foundations laid tonight, at least. You drift from table to table, switching women onto your arms carefully, choosing the daughters and sons of those affiliated with each group as your retinue. You're a social butterfly, as far as an Imperial Guard Lord General can be, and you begin to ply your diplomacy. Your words flow forth as you outline your idea that this world can, in fact, be made very amenable. The Merchants can take the short end of the stick, but then again, not everybody gets to be a winner in the beginning, right?

>I need the best of three Command tests, at +0 for Challenging. Effective Fel: 58. 1d100.

Rolled 46

>>26840364
Uniting the Ministorium and the PDF under one banner.

>>26840268
Works for me. Merchants aren't alloweed to have any influence on the planet that damages Imperial Interests but we can't go full stick. These guys need some carrot too. So they're allowed to continue their business with relatively little interference as long as they keep their noses clean.

Bring in the commissar, lay this out and make sure there are inspections everytime they make orbit around one of our holdings.

They'll get forewarning so they can hide any contraband, but bring along a psyker and a priest so we can get any intimations of double heresy on their vessels.

>>26840364
Better to have a megafaction you control than three you can talk with.

Rolled 20

>>26840385

Rolled 48

>>26840364
Ignore Merchants, unite Ministorium and PDF

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Rolled 33

>>26840364
Lets do some diplomacy!

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>>26840009
>Agree

I Agree with these people analysis of their planet.

We could / should commence a secret operation under our military oversight, to help install the foundations of a military armaments economy. Manufactorums are to be rebuilt / repaired and placed near the desert where the eco friendly mines are.

For now, we should focus on rapid reaction forces to defend the planet if it is attacked.

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>>26840343

>communism
>not state authoritarianism
>or theocracy

working class has fuck all to say here and certainly does not own the world.

>>26840364
> The Merchants can take the short end of the stick
Don't word it like that. Say how their goals, while worthwhile, would put too much pressure on the already weakened economy. We have an industrial base already - it's not smart nor economic to dispose of resources that you already have in favor of those that aren't even exploitable yet.

>>26840343
>In the grim darkness of the 41st Millenium, there is only communism

Your an imbecilic backbirth. This will never work. The power wont change hands. It will never work efficiently, and it will also not work if you succeed.

>>26840510
The power will change hands.
into ours

>>26840385
>>26840418
>>26840421
>>26840433

In what would likely be talked about for ages to come, with a woman on each arm, you spill honeyed words from your lips. Your retinue switches faster than a Hive spire whore switches out of her clothes. One minute you're delicately holding the vibrant lily flower daughter of the Merchant Guildmaster around the waist, and the next you're cordially clasping forearms with the favored son of General "Just call me Remi" Dante.

Of course, expressions sour somewhat at the compromises you propose. General Remi doesn't like the idea of having farmlands laying around as both such critical infrastructure, and as such open landing zones for invaders. Then you regale him with a tale of how another General had similar arguments. Except that, when his world came under Ork siege, they had insufficient crops and food supplies, and the man was forced to eat his own arm as a "Corpse Ration" because it had atrophied from lack of nutrients.

An entirely fictitious tale, but one that works to great effect, playing on Remi's concern and fatherly attitude towards his men. He is, however, intrigued at the idea of turning the cities into fortresses, especially if they can gain something a bit more impressive than "Current armaments." You don't have the time to press for more details, but it sounds a bit on the dreadful side from his expression when referring to them.

The Ministorium seems very agreeable to this course of action. They press to get atmospheric processors and converters to encourage regrowth of the planet, but once you point out that the people will be enjoying an immense improvement in terms of nutrition and other health benefits, they seem willing to fall in line.

The Merchant's Guildmaster, on the other hand...

"You -what-?" He balks, the man-- who reminds you of Unwerth with a distinct smell of sulfur and a distinct disinterest in even trying to smell nice-- staring pointedly at you.

>>26840664
"I think it's a fairly reasonable proposal." You state coolly, brushing your hand along the lower arm of the man's daughter, the woman giving you a doe-eyed look, oblivious to the business going on.

"Your businesses will be able to continue as usual. We simply wish to ensure that you keep your noses clean."

"But-- I-- That's not why I wanted you involved at all!" He dithers, "Err, Lord General, certainly you can see the light of reason with my own proposal? We can certainly divert a large portion of production towards arming your forces. Indeed, I've dealt with a number of very well-established traders, even a Rogue Trader, that could work to equip the regiments you found here quite sublimely. But without the resources we'd extract-- those craters are simply waiting to be tapped! Nevermind that the populace could triple, nay, quadruple their individual worth as workers by being committed to harvesting the metals unearthed by the atomics!"

Ah. A direct effort at bribery, it seems, or at least appealing to your economic senses.

>Table his offer for later.
>Refuse his offer.
>Accept his offer: Give the atomic sites to the Merchant's Guild, hampering the ecology at great profit and industrial improvement.
>Other?

>>26840687

The business of mining and refining resources is the province of the Adeptus Mechanicus. Their skill of utilizing material and effectivize factories is unmatched. Assist me in bringing them to this world, establish a factorium zone for manufactoring, and your trade agreements will be assured.

>>26840687
Mine under the trees and stuff?

>>26840743
This. Introduce him to our mechanicus friend. He gets a new contract, we get mines, but they all have to agree that the ecology and lives of the people come first.

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>>26840664
We are happy to help bring back the manufactorums, but we shall insist that they be reasonably friendly to the local environment, and that excessive "speculation" in various markets of goods at least on this world is curtailed. you stand to gain much from this, recovering an ailing planet, mitigating worker's unrest, and most importantly, opening up raw materials for extraction and processing. You stand to profit immensely if you follow our plan, or be left behind in the dustbin of history, while His Imperium marches on. Whether that is with or without you is your decision. Face it: your factories are dying, and you may very well become one of those "lost dynasties" without out help. these are our terms. we can negotiate on details, but on maintaining a balanced economy geared for the defense of the imperium is non-negotiable.

>>26840664
>Your retinue switches faster than a Hive spire whore switches out of her clothes.

Meh... stop trying to appease everyone in this thread.

We're a soldier first. And NOT a hive noble.

>>26840687
Point out that any system that has a sizable population of moons or an asteroid belt could just as easily yield more profit with the right assets, you could even go so far as to use atomics to unearth mineral seams and similar sources of wealth.

Planets with a thriving ecosystem, or even an ailing one with a breathable atmosphere are kind of rare however. Sacrificing the planet's wildlife and the citizens standard of living for a brief profit is unacceptable.

In the military one learns to look at the long term, not just for battles but for the people you fight for.

So no deal. We're more than happy to help our good friends in the Merchant's Trade yield a profit but not at the expense of all else.

Subtly remind him that bribery is illegal and punishable by public execution, not that he offered to bribe us, that was just a gift. But the commissar might not view our friend's generosity in the same light and unpleasant things could happen if he complains too loudly about the current state of things.

We're just looking out for our good friends the merchants, we don't want the Commissary and the Arbites to get jumpy and start auditing and imprisioning people if it looks like Imperial interests are being threatened.

Not that Unwerth would ever threaten Imperial Interests for his own gain, he's far too loyal to do that right?

>>26840687

Weigh his offer against wasted growth potential over longer term. How badly would such strip mining damage world's fertility?

>>26840784
>>26840794
>>26840839
Combine these.

Introduce him to our mechanicus buddy, let it be made clear that we're willing to negotiate the limits of his industrial capacity but that the planet needs an economy that is dedicated to defence projects WITHOUT extreme industrialization that may result in ruining the environment.

Also remind his that he had best not buck too hard. We're giving him a carrot but we can just as easily hit him with a stick.

>>26840839
Speaking of wildlife, we could eventually point out the profit one could make in tourism. There's thousands upon thousands of nobles out there, bored, sitting on their thrones, wanting to go hunting somewhere or enjoy the beautiful sunset over the ocean.

>>26840664
>An entirely fictitious tale, but one that works to great effect,

Lieing is not clever.

These people in this thread you are appeasing. Are FAGGOTS. And they ruin every thread with talk of:
- communism
- flashy uniforms / hat
- Russian accents
- we "just-can" attitude
- humanity fuck yea, congratulating yourself for others accomplishments
- wizards
- having enough charisma to somehow appropriate and own others things

These people are just about the most least-charisma person in the world. And their all autistic and spelling nazis, yet they cant solve a simple problem without sperging out.

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>>26840839
this man has a point. get us some asteroid miners and orbital factories, and he can have his cake and eat it too.

>>26840836
I dunno... Given our task, it makes sense that we'd have some experience at diplomacy.

>>26840687

>Refuse his offer

Destroying the planet's ecosystem is going to make it worthless for anything beyond lining the pockets of the Merchant Guild, who will likely then abandon the planet once they've exhausted the mineral wealth. The planet will then die a slow death as a useless rock.

>>26840944
"War is politics of another means"

>>26840743
>>26840784
>>26840794
>>26840755
>>26840839
>>26840868
You elect to try for a more intimidation-based approach, flashing the woman clinging to you from the insides of your flak greatcoat a charming smile before looking back to the Guildmaster.

"The business of mining and refining resources is the province of the Adeptus Mechanicus. Their skill of utilize materials and effective factories. To the credit of your opponent, he does make you briefly contemplate the wasted growth potential verses the harm to the world's fertility. You're not certain the scale of damage it might cause, but you elect to press on.

"If you assist the Guard, and minimize your... Profiteering." You remark, "As we rebuild this world, then you stand to profit immensely. Should you refuse, however, you shall be left behind in the dustbin of history. Whatever you choose, you and I both know that your factories are dying, just as this world is. The Imperial Guard can rebuild, just as we build and fortify many other worlds. Asteroid mining and shipyards could see this world turn around very quickly, should the wise man know that the military is where resources lie."

He seems mixed between anger, frustration, and intrigue, but your own aura of fear is present to lend a hand.

>Intimidation +10: Fellowship 48 test, best of 3.

>>26840836
Unfortunately, as an Imperial Lord General, politics is somewhat of a necessity. As an Imperial Lord General who has crossed paths with the Sector Lord's lackies, and subsequently faces a long journey, even soldiers need allies. Your regiment still awaits your inspection, however, though the Lord Commissar is dealing with getting them presentable. The fields of Le Keers do call to you so... And there are many in need of purging there.

Rolled 99

>>26841040
Rolling.

Rolled 67

>>26841040
"A house divided cannot stand, and His Imperium is no different. Join us in Unity brother."

Rolled 69

>>26841069
for profit

>>26840962
Considering all the factions involved in an Imperium military operation a Lord General would have to have experience herding cats.

Space Marines can be pretty unpredictable depending on which chapter you're dealing with. An approach that works with the Salamanders probably isn't going to be useful with Space Sharks.

Bolter Bitches are notorius for being touchy and feeling superior to other Imperial operations.

The Ministorum are bean counters and HATE waste so they'll probably have to be handled softly so you can get all the supplies you need.

The Guard isn't the most cohesive organization in the Imperium and whenever you deploy regiments from different worlds you have to deal with all kinds of cultural differences.

You can't get ANYTHING done without the Mechanicus's helps since Imperials by and large can't into high technology...

yeah I'd say a Lord General knows how to diplomance, if only to keep the people under him from slaughtering one another

>>26841069
>>26841086
>>26841089
And we fucked up.

>>26841222
yep, time to find that guy rival and give him a boost, rights to exploit a nearby asteroid field sounds like a idea

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>>26840962
>>26840944
>>26841038
You are frequently testing your diplomatic skills in this scenario but, indeed, the Tactica Imperialis does state that cohesion of purpose, as well as cohesion of squad, is required for victory.

Additional assets can be procured, amongst other aid, by diplomatic actions taken here. The Lord Commissar could be requested in your stead, however, as you go to muster the troops and organize forces.

>>26841089
>>26841086
>>26841069
Your intimidation works to great success! By herding him into a corner... Which prompts him to vigorously shake his head, chins wiggling, his face contorting across several emotions before he manages to find the right ones to speak.

"We don't have the resources to sustain production needed to keep our standard of living, let alone this war economy you're thinking of! Let alone asteroid mining and additional factories, not without tapping into those resources you're so protective of, Lord General." He remarks, waving dismissively. "No, no, no. Not until we get more resources. I've heard of where you're going to be taking our regiment. You get us materials from Le Keers, then maybe we'll talk. -Maybe-." He emphasizes, staring at you pointedly. "But you've done no favors for your cause by trying to browbeat me, sir!"

It's then that your microbead clicks in your ear. Lord Commissar Kennoch's voice can be heard with a background crackle of vox chatter, the man sounding as if he's standing right next to an engine.

"Lord General--" Ksshk, "Preparations ... Standing by! They're ready .... Delays!"

>[ ] Continue to carry on with the merchant.
>[ ] Pursue additional niceties to build reputation.
>[ ] Go forth to inspect the troops.
>[ ] Other?

>>26841294
> [x] Go forth to inspect the troops.

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>>26841294
Niceties to extract ourselves from the party and perhaps find out about merchant politics, then inspect the troops. we'll be with them a good deal more than with these noble types. and unlike these lace-wearing bastards, we can order them to do stuff.

>>26841294
It matters little. I suppose you can try niceties, but not with him. Either go to anther merchant or try building the alliance between PDF and Ministorum.

>>26841294
just ignore the guildmaster and inform the lord-commissar we're coming as soon as we can get out of the party without being insulting

>>26841294

This guy is an idiot. If he expects to get anything from refusing to cooperate with us, he'll be in for a shock when any aid we bring in isn't going to his fat ass.

[x] Pursue additional niceties to build reputation
[x] Other: bring his daughter along with us, and subtly work to convince her that our plan will work.

If we're lucky, we'll undermine the bastard's power by having his daughter doubt him

>>26841294

>rolling
low is good, or high is good?

>>26841294
Tell the Guilder you have to meet with your commissar (pointed look) and inspect the troops for the smooth running of the Imperium.

>>26841376
>>26841415

Perhaps there could be found some guildsmen who wish to overthrow the master, and we can help them do so in exchange for future cooperation.

To that end, I vote niceties.

>>26841415
Seconding.

>>26841294

Go inspect the troops, but not before putting the guildmaster in his place. His wealth may give him comfort, but it will not protect him from Xenos, Chaos... or Emperor's bursars.

>>26841456
Yep, this looks about right, Just don't get caught doing it.

>>26841660
Talk to the Lord Commissar and our personal Bolter Bitch.

Use Ecclesiarchy elements to find families dissatisified with the current guild leader and use some Commisarial Cadets to test the waters. They'll pose as normal citizens or off duty guardsmen with decent ranks who can suppliy merchants and similar groups with information, and maybe surplus supplies and weaponry.

Build a network of contacts using the subtle commissarial cadets and the secrecy of the Ecclesiarchial contacts and we'll probably be able to either find leverage on the guild master or overthrow him (preferably without bloodshed)

>>26841743
This seems like the kind of thing that will get us a few pointed questions if the =][= ever finds out about it.

>>26842069
it's pretty tame compared to other things we could do

>>26842069

It's called ensuring an amicable governing environment and looking out for the Imperium's best interests. Bring the =][= on.

>>26842120

Sweet Emperor! Never say such things!

>>26842120
indeed. although some might start talking about "Planetary Sovereignty", we can point out we made the Imperium a safer, more secure place. Plus, we saved a valuable world from destruction from excessive industrialization.

anyways, let us see our troops, as they're probably a bit... worried about their future.

>>26842120

Nope. Even when you have done nothing wrong-- Nay, even when you've done something right, you DO NOT want to involve the Inquisition. They are an intrinsically negative force and do little to benefit others except by being negative towards your enemies. And once those enemies are taken care of, the =][= will turn its gaze towards you.

>>26841425
>Low is good. High is bad. Very bad, the higher you go.

>>26841354
>>26841373
>>26841376
>>26841413
>>26841415
>>26841433
>>26841456
>>26841468
>>26841743
"Understood." You state, looking back to the Guildmaster. "Please pardon my rudeness. I need to meet with the Lord Commissar."

You give him a pointed look. To his credit, he doesn't shirk away, but he seems to be on the defensive regardless, thinking hard.

"I shall be making my rounds to say goodbye, and go forth to inspect the troops." You state, unable to suppress the note of relief. You're far from some high-spire noble, regardless of how well you navigated here. Mostly.

"Very well. Do be safe, Lord General." The Guildmaster remarks, not all niceties lost upon him. You nod in return, taking his daughter with you as a trophy... And potential hostage. You'll need company on the Aquila Lander ride to the Founding grounds, anyways.

The departing words are rather warm, the majority of the crowds here rather impressed at how well you handled your first incursion. It seems you've made a mostly positive impact, though the merchants of the Council of Workers seem to be lukewarm towards you at best, in comparison to your original welcome.

In either case, you re-enter your Lander, the pilot greeting you with a nod as you get a fresh glass of amasec for yourself and your guest. The flight itself takes only a few minutes, though the pilot takes a "shortcut" so you can find some personal time with your plaything from the party.

>>26842235
Oh god if there's an =][= psyker in the room this quest isn't going to last a whole lot longer.

>>26842260
Which is the last bit of levity you're going to get to enjoy before reaching the Founding Fields, as they've been indicated on the vox chatter you overheard.

You don't get to see much out of the armored viewport, adjusting your uniform and your cap, as well as finishing off your glass. The shuttle's thrusters were the last warning of an imminent landing, and you're soon enough arriving in a much more sour, serious, and fear-filled environment. The moment the shuttle's landing ramp begins to peel back and down. The wind flutters up, this part of the city seemingly much windier. Or, rather, the amount of dropships streaking into and away from the Founding Fields is causing such strong winds, the constant roar of titanic engines muted to a bearable level from the vantage point of the massive scaffolding overseeing the regiment that had been mustered.

Lord Commissar Kennoch snaps a sharp salute to you, your honor guard-- not yet formulated-- absent for now. You will be able to procure stormtroopers, or other suitable forces, in time. You suppose, anyways.

Magos Batt is also present, and offers you a perfunctory nod of respect and acknowledgement, his mechadendrites currently plugged in to a large cogitator console several meters away, apparently coordinating something. The landing platform itself is barely large enough for the lander to settle upon, crafted from steel girders recently put together. Standing at over one hundred and fifty meters high, it is a looming tower, a steel spire draped in the fluttering banners of the Imperium of Man, the Imperial Guard, and-- below all those-- the various banners of Vitalitas, the Adeptus Mechanicus, and other "Lesser" entities. All according to the proper flag codes of the Imperium.

>>26842276
You're momentarily forced away from your internal schemes as you witness the sheer scale of it all. The Lord Commissar's cadets and lesser Commissars are moving amongst the ranks, thousands of men-- at least ten thousand men--- standing in perfect squares of one hundred men each. All of them standing at attention under the burning lights of the lamp packs lining the rockcrete-paved grounds. Kennoch's men aren't armed with their usual chainswords, but rather with shock mauls, which they liberally apply to those that don't stand at attention properly, or who don't chorus the proper answer with their comrades. His men have the eyes of hawks and the ears of safecrackers, and none escape their discipline vigil.

Valkyrie gunships hover over the fields as Devourer dropships continue landing in the far back of the fields. The Magos's tech-priests can be seen directing serfs and logistics personnel in marshaling the vehicles being unloaded. Mostly supply vehicles, but a smattering of Leman Russ tanks can also be seen. Along the top of what can only be thought of as the "Command Spire", a number of high-level technicians, none below the rank of Sergeant, could be seen manning and operating the vox equipment. Each one thoroughly vetted to be within your proximity. In addition, a number of Kennoch's Commissars could be seen standing near the edges of the spire's railing, armed with sniper rifles.

You see why in short order. The Founding Fields are slightly fenced-in, but barely enough to keep out wild animals. The concertina wire topping the fences would do little to deter a man in full flak armor, like the soldiers arrayed here, were. You watch coldly through your magnoculars as a man attempts to run away from a Commissar chasing him with a shock maul. The Commissar stops after five paces.

>>26842290
The man only makes it another three before one of the rifle-armed men near you draws a bead on him. You simply resume scanning your forces, the Lord Commissar's chin clenching slightly.

Two more paces. He doesn't even get to touch the fence when the bullet blows his helmet clean off his head, the man's body collapsing. A Commissar points at two more Guardsmen and orders him dragged away, leaving a trail of blood in the process.

"Smells like victory." You remark idly, smiling, as you survey your forces. The men of Vitalitas are, on the whole, strong. Normally ten times as many people have already tried to run away, and been executed for cowardice. It seems like barely any of their number have been found wanting. Well, barely any in comparison to the usual rates.

"I could have mistaken that for amasec and fine cigars, sir." The Lord Commissar suggested, that familiar smile creeping onto his features, smiling even as a man's blood dried on the ground.

"They're closely related." You quip back, giving a rich, cheery laugh, hands on your hips as you assess your forces further.

"Eight thousand men, sir. They're a hardly lot, but we'll make them hard as steel. This world's just done some of the work for us." Kennoch states, as another rifle cracks, a second coward being cut down.

>>26842303
Is this a 'wat do' situation?

>>26842303
"They have basic kit so far, sir, but we do have a good assortment of kit that we brought with us. We could probably stand to get more from whoever you made nice with." He tells you, not prying further. "As it is, they don't have much right now. A uniform, laspistol, some poor weather gear intended for Le Keers' environment, a shoddy knife, flak armor, rucksack..." He goes over the list, producing a little data slate for himself. "Mess kit, including one canteen, and a set of basic entrenching and weapon maintenance tools. One grooming kit, a sleep bag with blanket, a rechargable lamp pack, cognomen tags, their primer book," He smirks at this, as if it was an 'of course' item, "And two weeks' rations."

He sighs, shrugging. "Not much, but the Munitorium gave us supplies to outfit them. It all depends on what doctrine you want them to be trained in-- this is their first regiment, after all, and the first one you'll have total command over. Just keep in mind that it's best if we keep the entire regiment focused towards specific doctrines. Splitting them up will make casualties hit us all the harder."

>Insufficient raw materials for Armoured Regiment
>Reconnaissance Regiment: Geared towards scouting, independent action, and ambush. They operate in small units with a great degree of mobility and independence, operating far ahead of most army or invasion commanders.
>Insufficient raw materials and experienced soldiers for Drop Troops.

>>26842468
>Hunter-Killer: Utilizes light vehicles with heavy firepower to strike down priority targets. They tend towards developing a hero mentality from their exploits, dealing the killing blow to enemy after enemy, relying mostly upon Sentinel Scout Walkers and Hellhound Support Tanks.
>Light Infantry: Lacking the firepower to effectively fight on the front lines, their talents are better employed on dense terrain, where they can lay ambushes and engage in short-lived skirmishes. Equipped with lascarbines, as well as two frag grenades and two smoke grenades per trooper.
>Line Infantry: The backbone of the Guard. Humble, doughty, and loyal infantrymen the center of propaganda. Armed with an M36 lasgun and four charge packs per soldier, plus a full suit of flak armor, two frag grenades, and two krak per soldier.
>Mechanised Infantry: Insufficient raw materials to produce.
>Siege Infantry: Specifically trained for protracted sieges, which may last years at a time, each line consisting of newly dug trenches and earthworks, swiftly and precisely excavated. Armed with one M36 lasgun, six packs per soldier, a full suit of flak armor, respirator, four empty sandbags, and an entrenching tool, plus two frag grenades and two photon flash grenades.

It is, in the end, your decision as to what the Vitalitas First Regiment shall specialize in.

>>26842468
>>Reconnaissance Regiment: Geared towards scouting, independent action, and ambush. They operate in small units with a great degree of mobility and independence, operating far ahead of most army or invasion commanders.

>>26842468
I'm feeling Hunter-Killer or Siege infantry.

>>26842481

>>Line Infantry

Let's go basic.

>>26842481
Seige infantry. This world is going to take a while to develop, and militarily speaking we are going to be on the back foot for a while.

>>26842481
>>26842468
I'm inclined towards siege infantry, but we would hardly get any glory by spending years grinding down the enemy.

So I suppose Reconnaissance Regiment is my first choice.

OP, do we have any knowledge of other forces that will help us retake Le Keers?

>>26842531
It was my understanding that we are going to be deployed to take Le Keers.

>>26842523

Me again, could switch my choice to Siege, but that hangs upon this, could we switch Photon-flash for krak? As they are the same availability.

>>26842481
What type of planet is Le Keers? We should tailor our troops to that situation. we can always expand into other disciplines once he are established and have more troops.

>>26842468
>>26842481

> Line Infantry

We're forming the core of our army.

[x] Other: Consult Lord Commissar Kennoch on our theory of turning this world into a self-supplying hub for the Imperium's military.

I'm curious to see what he thinks of it.

>>26842481
I'm for siege, good for taking planet's if time is on our side.

Any chance of shotguns mixed in with the las's

>>26842572
I agree with this guy. If we can do well on our first campaign, we as a general will be able to requisition what we need for other wars.

>>26842564
Then let's hope they're built up. Yet another use for seige infantry.

>>26842468
Recon, baby. Then we be Ghosts.

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>>26842481
i'll vote Siege Infantry. do we have artillery now?

Probably be could to pull up any and all available info on Le Keers before choosing speciality.

Siege infantry carry a lot of shit, so if it's a hot environment they could be severely fucked.

>>26842481
I'm a sucker for siege so my vote goes to that but I can see why line might interesting is there anyway of merging the two doctrine together?

>>26842572
How's morale? how prevalent are commissars and the ministorum clerics? Siege units need above average - good morale otherwise we are gonna take lot of 'casualties' to desertion, PTSD and negligence.

>>26842660
>>26842610
>>26842601
>>26842572

http://chapterquest.wikia.com/wiki/Le_Keers

>>26842572
>>26842564
Le Keers is a former Imperial mining world, one that is truly desolate now. It has a population of only three million, and it was rich in large amounts of diamonds, platinum, common ores, and exotic crystals. Restoration of the world to the Imperial fold would be a booster shot in the arm of the Imperial economy.

Once a prosperous Mining World, the fall of Triot deprived them of their primary technological support which left them vulnerable when the Xenos moved against them in force. Having barely beaten back the Xeno menace, the world was then betrayed from within and a civil war that killed well over 95% of the population ensued. The winner, the Parker family, was primarily victories because of their alliance with the local Xenos, who they continue to provide resources for to this day.

It is currently classified as a "Renegade Dictatorship"; the few surviving humans are under the ruthless control of John Parker and his Family. Loyalty is said to be low from the remaining populace, but Parker and his associates maintain control with an iron fist.

Suspected enemy makeup is small in number for defending an entire planet, and vary greatly in quality. He has 20,000 or so poorly-armed punks equipped with stubbers and effectively no armor. He also has 3,000 men equipped with lasguns and flak jackets, though their training and motivation are questionable. They are equipped with light vehicles such as Tauros's and Siegfried tanks. Finally, he has approximately 250 hardcore followers that are equipped with carapace armor and hotshot lasguns, part of "The Family." He also has Chimeras and Ragnarok tanks looted or otherwise scrapped together from mining equipment and facilities.

>>26842707
Any particular info on the climate?

>>26842707
Siege tactics might destroy a lot of good equipment if we're going that route.

>>26842695
My god we need to commend our intelligence gatherers. I'd say Siege units. They'll know the terrain well, and we can expect them to have dug in. Ideally when we make our attack we can appeal to the general populace to rise up in support of the God-Emperor, but we can't count on that working.

If we go full siege, we'll be able to grind them to dust in a few months. They're main force is an undisciplined, poorly armed rabble that will shatter themselves against our bulwarks.

>>26842750
yes, but conversely it could lead to a lot of tunnel fight, which similar in manner to trench fights, would suit a siege unit.

To me, it seems that fighting is either going to be a dustbowl with amargeddon esque chimeras and amroured fist attacks if they use their stuff as very mobile attacks or siege if they end up hiding in their mining buildings and entrenching.

>>26842750
As long as we're judicious with our artillery, we should be able to get them to break their main strength against our entrenched lines, then mop up. If they're half-smart, they may try to resist us using trenches and whatnot, in which case they'll be hilariously outmatched.

>>26842807
I just don't want it to become a Vracks-like scenario.

>>26842782

>intel gatherers

This intel gifted unto you by the Ghosts of Retribution chapter of Adeptus Astartes.

Note that intel is not guarenteed to be by any means accurate or up to date.

>>26842707

So we go Hunter-Killer, decapitate the leadership, eliminate the 3000 troops there that can actually offer some serious resistance, and watch the rest surrender to us.

>>26842843
Good god, can we expect Space Marine support? A squad in the right place could tear the heart out of the treacherous bastards.

To everyone considering siege unit:

Please note that the longer we take to accomplish our missions, the more resources we'll expend. We may gain lesser rewards due to this.

>>26842877
we may also face an insurgency if the Parkers escape, or horrific gang violence if those 20k aren't controlled. no, bottling them up in a siege where they can do little harm is best.

>>26842877
I like this idea. If we hit fast and hard, we could be in and out in a week.

>>26842885

"We are afraid that the Chapter Master has called the Chapter's strength to another world, Lord General. Emperor give you strength and good fortune."

>>26842932
>Implying we can warp travel that fast.

>>26842948
I suppose it was a bit much to hope for. Well, I guess we'll have to do things the classical way.

>>26842495
>>26842542
>>26842654
>3 Recon

>>26842512
>>26842531
>>26842567
Photon-flash could be switched for krak if you wish, though it'd make room clearing a bit more troublesome.
>>26842597
>>26842656
Yes. You have Leman Russ Tanks, as well as mortar pieces and a smattering of Basilisk cannons.
>>26842660
Siege Infantry, like the rest of the Guardsmen, would come equipped with desert climate uniforms. The extra equipment may cause fatigue issues, but the nature of their operations and training is meant to account for that.


>>26842597
Shotguns, rocket launchers, and other such weaponry are assumed to be mixed in with the general mess of soldiers, though obviously distribution numbers differ depending on type.

>>26842542
You are the only force intent upon retaking it. Considering the composition of the enemy resistance, a single Lord General should be sufficient. You could attempt to conscript additional persons/regiments, however, though this may strain relations with locals.

>Siege appears to be holding the majority at the moment.

>>26842750
The current infrastructure is already fairly damaged, but still rather serviceable. The Adeptus Mechanicus will be able to swoop in and begin restoration efforts in short order, which should get facilities back to running order quickly with the liberated populace to operate them.

>>26842674
You turn to Kennoch, "How's the morale for these new men?"

The Commissar smiles, "High, all things considered. They're happy to be leaving this world, and the priest has been working his magic amongst the Emperor-botherers in their ranks." He remarks smartly.

There's a solid assortment of Commissars and Clerics, more than a single regiment might need, at least.

>>26842586
"What are your thoughts on turning this world into a self-supplying hub for the military?" You ask him.

>>26842968
The warp moves in mysterious ways. I just hope we don't get there before they secede and we lay siege to a loyal world.

>>26842982
He pauses, thoughtfully, humming. "You'd need a lot of farmlands and factories for that. From what I've seen, the food here is fairly poor, excluding the few good areas of soil they have left. The people here basically live off corpse rations. I'd dare say the combat rations may just be like candy to this lot." He goes on to add, smirking slightly once more.

"If you can get some outsiders to assist in the project, I could see this place reviving in time, yes, sir."

>>26842885
Extremely unlikely, considering that the Ghosts of Retribution are sworn to Larion, whose lackeys you are currently not in the good graces of.

>>26842910

The gang violence is a concern of the Ecclesiarchy and Arbites, not the Imperial Guard. If push comes to shove, we can execute all the heretics on the planet and have it resettled.

And the Parkers will not escape. We will see to it.

>>26842982
Well I vote siege then.

>>26842899
yes, but we could also be more heavily sought out due to our specialized nature and experience. Not only that but we will be the ones on the ground who take the metaphorical flag so if we take a hive or whatever then the other commanders have to ask *Us* to relinquish it which gives us alot of cred. I call that if unit choice is going to affect our rewards and so on, then could sector command give us an assessment of any variances?

>>26842982
Since we already have tanks, I vote for keeping the photon grenades. Already voted for seige, so don't count this though.

>>26843182
I'm not sure about that. I would assume krak grenades to have more value. They've got rudimentary APC's and tanks, and we probably haven't got the Russ' to counter them everywhere. I'd go with Krak.

>>26842982

As krak is available i confirm vote for siege, however, eventuall swap of photon-flash for krak i leave to /tg/ to decide in consensus

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>>26843220
>>26843227
See, I wouldn't. Photons are important for re-/taking trenches and if we have rocket launchers then tanks assaulting our trenches will be bogged down already. If they are flanking our trenches, kraks aren't going to help.

so my vote is stick with photons

>>26843220
I would imagine there would be a lot of ccq involved, perhaps even more than open battles, and I doubt they have much heavy infantry. I still say photons.

>>26843346
its mentioned that they basically have 300 stormtroopers at best who are the uber-loyal elite. If they send those at us then this parker will be on his last legs anyway.

>>26843316
It seems I was arguing from a flawed point of view. I had thought the original kit was frag grenades and krak grenades, and thought that it would be unwise to change the standard equipment.

Obviously I was wrong. I withdraw my objection, and vote to keep the photon grenades. My mistake.

>>26843033
What about our Sororitas associates? Can we expect help from them?

Some power armoured infantry would really scare the shit out of that disorganised militia.

>>26843419
As I understand it the Sister is guarding our Ecclesiarchy representative.

>Alright, closing up voting...

"We're going to be laying siege to a planet, Lord Kennoch." You remark idly, clasping your hands behind your back. "The men should be prepared for that. Krak grenades and photon flash grenades should be interchangeable, though, if the local PDF can spare it."

Kennoch simply smiles, "I think they can afford it, considering that I'm starting to get an idea of just what kind of roots you might be putting down here. Rather ambitious, though, sir. Don't you think?"

"Ambition is what fuels the Imperium." You retort, "The Emperor never decreed ambition a sin."

"Only what ambition leads to." The Lord Commissar remarks evenly. A friendly warning, it seems, but you simply smile and clasp a hand on your comrade's shoulder.

"The Emperor guides us all. Now then, let's get to the fine details." You encourage him. He nods.

"As a siege-oriented regiment, I can make my recommendations, but personally, I'd prefer you to decide as to what doctrines and special equipment they employ. You will, after all, be leading them."

>Training Doctrines:
>Close Order Drill: The regiment trains long and hard to operate in close formations, fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with their comrades. These close formations respond quickly with overwhelming force, moving as a single entity, rather than a group of individuals.
>Die-Hards: The regiment is unyielding in the face of adversity, and will not falter amidst the fury of battle, no matter the horrors arrayed against them.
>Favoured Foes (Heretics): Chaos has scourged the surface of Vitalitas, and as such, the men of this world have learned and studied the most effective ways to hunt heretics, rebels, and the evils of humanity.

>>26843527
>Hardened Fighters: The regiment's warriors are vicious up-close; deadly in melee as well as at range. They are dervishes with blades, and not afraid of facing their enemies in single combat, and have come to relish the feeling of hot blood from the freshly-slain on their skin, especially with axes or similar woodsmen-based tools.
>Iron Discipline: Insufficient experience.
>Sharpshooters: Hunters and experiences with the ravenous wildlife have rendered this regiment well-known for its deadly marksmen, and every soldier is expected to demonstrate a great proficiency with a lasgun at the very least. This regiment may produce some of the finest snipers in the Imperial Guard, and even a common soldier can be relied upon to fell foe after foe with a storm of precise shots.
>Survivalists: This regiment is talented at surviivng in the wilderness, and its soldiers are masters in operating in the wastelands and forests, the very kind they've grown up in extensively.

>Special Equipment Doctrines:
>Augmentics: The regiment has accepted the wisdom of the Mechanicus, and many soldiers will come to sport bionics and augmentics, moreso than typically is the case, and the injured tend to return to active duty moreso than not.
>Chameoline: The regiment is equipped with colour-shifting chameleoline, which helps in blending in surroundings.
>Combat Drugs: To add courage during charges, the regiment is equipped with injectors and five doses of stimm to keep fighting when the fighting gets tough.
>Demolitions: The regiment is trained, and equipped, to deal with a variety of explosive munitions, from mines, to charges, to missiles.
>Scavengers: The regiment is populated with those who know how to make do, including via stealing and scavenging, though this may gain ill attention from higher-ups.
>Well-Provisioned: Insufficient political pull/resources.

>>26843527
>>26843537
I'd say Hardened Fighters, given how vicious the fighting is likely to be. Those that show cowardice will be executed, so they'll all end up as die hards eventually.

As for Equipment, I'd say demolitions. Good for trench and siege fighting.

>>26843537
If it's one of each, then I vote die-hards and demolitions. Let's give em hell!

>>26843527
>Die-Hards
> Demolitions
Seems like a no-brainer in drawn out siege fighting.

>>26843593
13 barrels of it Anon?

>>26843608
Silly anon, we don't need a Behnblehd to destroy the Imperiums enemies.

Would sure help, though.

>>26843537
>Hardened Fighters: The regiment's warriors are vicious up-close; deadly in melee as well as at range. They are dervishes with blades, and not afraid of facing their enemies in single combat, and have come to relish the feeling of hot blood from the freshly-slain on their skin, especially with axes or similar woodsmen-based tools.
Would have been iron discipline if we could have had.
Sharpshooters could be useful as well but sniping tends to be more defense focused.

>Special Equipment Doctrines:
Drugs/demo
Augmentics could be hellacool but i'm worried it could lead to higher resources/ all our vets being cyborg commandos (i.borderline psychotic emotionally disconnected murder machines) due to the psych strain.

>>26843537
close order drill and combat drugs because steroid powered siege layers moving as one will cause more than one case of "bring my brown pants" for enemy generals

>>26843597
we Krieg/Bruce Willis now son.

>son alsomeen
that's right captcha, we're mean as hell!

>>26843527
>>26843537

Hardened Fighters + Demolitions

We're going to a Mining world, there will be explosives and likely tunnel/urban fighting.

Awww yeah

>>26843586
>>26843662
>>26843676
>Three for Hardened Fighters.

>Demolitions has been locked in. Training Doctrine must be selected, but Hardened Fighters holds the lead.

>>26843726
Um, I think there's three for Die Hards, as well.

>>26843726
well if the doctrine is demolition I'm changing for die-hards
I've got to ask can we change doctrine later?

>>26843726
in case it wasn't clear, my vote is for Die Hards.

>>26843726

Hardened Fighters

>>26843756
>>26843772
>>26843767
>In which case, Die Hards now actually holds the lead. Small mixup there.

>>26843786
>And tied... Again. I'll flip a coin if a majority doesn't appear in a few minutes.

>>26843772
If we do die hards, our men probably won't break under terrible your-entire-squads-dead-keep-fighting pressure.. If they're hardened fighters, they'll be able to carve their way through the undisciplined enemy horde in close quarters. I vote Fighters, (and already have up above, don't count me twice) because it seems to me that it will bring about a quicker end to the Le Keer pacification, which will give us greater prestige and leverage over the merchants.

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come on lads, we're the Hammer of the Emperor, the Imperial Guard. We Hold the Line! If that doesn't deserve Die hard, then i don't know what the movies taught me!

>>26843851
>Hardened Fighters

>>26843799
I voted already, but I'm sticking with die-hards. trench and tunnel warfare are some of the most brutal fighting conditions, and we need to keep up the morale if things go south.

>>26843843
Also if we just get the regiment through a few campaigns, the weak will have died and the cowards will have been executed by the Commissariat, and we'll have a ton of hardened veterans anyway.

>>26843799
die hard

>>26843843
And who knows who we'll be fighting after Le Keer? If it's anyone who are patently better at melee than guard (and that's a lot of people), then I'd much rather we be able to hold out against them than play them at their own (better) game.

>>26843799
well, hardened fighters is amore offensive trait, die hards a bit more defensive.
we are trying to conquer a planet ,thats kind of an offensive action.
so i vote hardened fighters. besides they can let them hunt mutatet native beasts inna woods with them axes, for training and fun. thats one badass regiment.

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>>26843537
Will die-hards work long term? like during the long slow crunch of inaction? or is it only in a direct assault?

>>26843903
After Le Keer, a lot of the weak-willed will already have been culled out. I'd prefer to have our men be even slightly more prepared, as that will hopefully allow those units that are being butchered to last longer, allowing our other guardsmen to blast the butchers to pieces.

>>26843945
It's in everything, I would assume.

>>26843963
Perhaps, if we fight Orks or Aspect-heavy Eldar. But if it's daemons, or necrons, or 'nids who are ripping our guardsmen apart, then even Cadians rout from those. After this campaign is over, the best, most hardened and grizzled veteran... will be about as tough as a Cadian teenager.

>>26844024
If we fight Daemons, Necrons, or Nids we'll probably be screwed anyway. I don't predict Die Hard being much use, as the Daemons will be amused by additional resistance, the 'crons will just stand back up again, and the 'nids will use our biomass to become even stronger than before.

>>26844024
>will be about as tough as a Cadian teenager.
Them's fighting words.

But I'm for HF now and picking up diehards afterwards, i don't think these people will put up too much of a fight.

>>26844102
If we can change as the years go on, then I agree.

>>26844082
"We're gonna die anyway," is not an excuse to stop fighting. No matter what he's specialized in, a guardsman's duty is to hold the line, even against the forces of hell itself. But believe me when I say that a lasgun is a far more efficient application of a guardsman's effort than an axe, especially if he refuses to give up due to Die Hard.

I vote for hardened fighters.

>>26844389
My argument is that in any situation where having Die Hard is the difference between victory and defeat, we will have failed in our duty as a Lord General to effectively use our soldiers, and would be better served tactically withdrawing and redeploying to meet the new threat. Hardened Fighters will allow us to use the Guardsmen we command in new ways to expedite victory.

>>26844389
>>26844467
The way I see it if we are going siege then these two picks change our approach; If we go Diehards, we advance slowly, cautiously but inexorably; we grind our opponents down but don't give them a chance to strike back. (kind of like storm of iron)

If we pick Hardened fighters then its more about stormtrooper (ww1) and stalingrad tactics; clearing buildings and trenches, armoured pushes, followed by infantry, after we've edged close and shelled them into submission from our trenches.

>>26844467
Once again, the only place where a melee boost will matter is against other unaugmented humans, or perhaps ranged units if we can get that close without routing due to being shot up. Retreating and redeploying are the concern of the Lord General; Die Hard is there if we decide not to do those things, but stick it out instead.

>>26844561
Woops, forgot Tau.

>>26844467
We're a seige regiment, these conflicts aren't going to be over lightning quick.We aren't meant for redeploying, we're litterally designed to hold the line. As fun as hardened fighters may be to you, we're still going to die in close combat against:
>Orks
>Tyranids
> Chaos Marines
>Chaos Demons
>Eldar
> Dark Eldar
>Necrons
I'd rather have our army not break and flee against 'nids then be slightly better at dying in close combat to them.

Um, where the hell is OP? I would've just flipped that coin already.

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>>26844673

>>26843799
I vote fr die hard

>>26844673
>>26844714
>Sorry about that. Went to grab something to eat and it apparently evolved into me passing out for a few hours. Resuming shortly!

>>26844859
DO IT! Eat it slow OP, enjoy it. Soon, soon, there will be blood spilled in the Emperors name. Roaring xenos, laughing demons, and the damnable blasphemes of traitors on the wind. And the death of unnumbered heroes on your mind.

Eat well, for soon there will only be time for death.

>>26845083
We should put that in the regimental Mess Hall.

Incidentally, we're probably going to need to address the troops. Anyone have any ideas for the speech?

>>26845128
Maybe just.
>Eat well, for soon there will only be time for death.
The LG can know the rest of it...

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>>26845128
think i got something...

We must now consider the period which is just drawing to a close as almost the last stage of our species’ resurrection, and prepare ourselves to finish worthily the marvelous design of the elect of twenty thousand generations, the completion of which Providence has reserved for this fortunate age.
Yes, young men, He owes to you an undertaking which has merited the applause of the universe. You will conquer, because you shall be prepared for the tactics that decide the fate of battles. You are not unworthy of the men who entered the ranks of a Macedonian phalanx, and who contended not in vain with the proud conquerors, the Xenos. To this wonderful page in our Imperium's history another more glorious still will be added, and the slave shall show at last to his free brothers a sharpened sword forged from the links of his fetters.
To arms, then, all of you! all of you! And the oppressors and the mighty shall disappear like dust. Let timid doctrinaires depart from among us to carry their servility and their miserable fears elsewhere. Humanity is its own master. It wishes to be brothers, to look on the insolent with a proud glance, not to grovel before them imploring its own freedom. It will not follow in the trail of men whose hearts are foul. No! No! No!
Providence has presented Mankind with the Emperor. Every Man, Woman, and child should rally round him. By the side of Him on Terra every quarrel should be forgotten, all rancor depart. Once more I repeat my battle-cry: "To arms, all-all of you!" Let all of us rally round the glorious hero of Terra and give the last blow to the crumbling edifice of the tyranny of Xenos. Receive, then, my gallant young men, one word of advice from me: Struggle. Your lives shall know it, but it shall purify you, and in purity there is Strength and Purpose. He on Terra shall smile down upon you days hence as the Paragons of Humanity, and you Shall Know No Fear!

>>26845128
"Now I know all you maggots have been arguing pretty hard about whether it's better to assault the enemy or hold the line. Well you're both wrong! All guardsmen will report in for survival training at O five hundred."

>>26845208
I like it.

>>26845208
People in 40k wouldn't know what a Macedonian phalanx is but besides that its really good. We should perhaps add something about heretics though, being that they will be the first we face.

>>26845388
Given that Le Keer has been supplying some filthy Xenos with the stuff they've been mining, we'll probably face some Xenos as well as the standard lot of heretics. Or at the very least disgusting Xenos technology.

>>26845487
And by Xenos you mean what exactly?

>>26845554
Its probably some small sanctioned race like the jokero or something.

>>26845554
http://chapterquest.wikia.com/wiki/Le_Keers

"The winner, the Parker family, was primarily victories because of their alliance with the local Xenos, who they continue to provide resources for to this day."

Our intelligence, gathered by nothing less than venerable Space Marines.

>>26845487
>tfw it's Dark Eldar

fuck

>>26845654
>>26845639
>>26845613
So we have no idea what they are? Just some vague reports... interdasting.

>>26845673
>>26845654
Most likely is some small local unspecified Xenos empire. I rule out Orks, because it seems like they'd be more likely to simply take over the whole damned planet and make use of the resources themselves. Could be Craftworlders, but I'm not sure how much they would even want diamonds and whatnot (if someone knows a reason they might, speak up). DEldar are again to me unlikely, because they would more likely simply take the entire population as slaves and bugger back off to Commorragh. Which would be lucky for us.

>>26845732
Maybe that's the trade. Slaves from the dictator's enemies in exchange for resources that can't be found on Commorragh.

>>26845837
Could be. Until we know more, idle speculation could be worse than useless, if we get too convinced that we know what's going on. For now, prepare for every eventuality.

Alright gents, seems like he'll be updating around 9pm board time.

>>26843597
Seconding this, Die Hards + Demos seems like a winning combo.

>>26846388
About that

>>26847278
You don't suppose he's having internet issues, do you?

>>26847745
Probably a combination of tiredness and burn out

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>>26847857
Oh you mean WEAKNESS.

>>26847906
Well let's hope he picks up Lord General Quest, if not today than some other time.

>>26847949
Yeah, I was just kidding it's been enjoyable and I appreciate his time.

>>26847978
he said he'd be back at 9 in the chat earlier. suspect he just got tired. i'm sure he'll be on, as he seemed to be having fun.

anyways, good night gents. The Emperor Protects

>>26849274
>Wake up after burning out and falling asleep
>All these nice things.
>/tg/ is great!

>Closing decisions.

You turn to the Lord Commissar, your expression set as you stiffen your jaw. You look the man up and down, then the men before you. The spotlights stab into the encroaching darkness. A brief check of your pocket chronometer indicates that you were at the party for somewhere on the verge of six hours. Still, there's much to be decided still.

The Imperial anthem blares from the vox hailers interspersed along the ranks assembled, far, far below your stop atop the spire. Kennoch and Batt stand to either side of you as you contemplate just what to do.

"We shall train them to be hardier yet-- and considering the nature of our objective, we would be best served by equipping them with demolitions training. This regiment shall be the rock which we shall use to bludgeon open the skull of John Parker and the scum he has rallied to his despicable cause."

Your lips curl slightly as you begin to smile. The Lord Commissar nods, "Aye, sir. It may take some time-- four months, perhaps-- but the Commissariat shall ensure that only the hardiest shall serve under you." He affirms, nodding.

You suspect that a number of the planet's nobles would have loved to see this. A shame. Almost. This is a military matter, and even now, your eyes assess the thousands gathered before you, standing still. Your booted feet step up the steps leading to the apex of the structure, the massive bank of vox horns and loudhailer instruments all pointing at you like the spears of a phalanx.

The banners hanging from the spire continue fluttering, as does the base of your flak greatcoat, and you realize that your face is being broadcast on the massive pict screens suspended via grav plates to either side of your head.

>>26850287
Seven thousand, nine hundred and fifty-six arms shoot up in a salute, their terror and fear and Imperial loyalty all mixing together to give them the hardy discipline they shall see refined in due time.

"Ave Imperator!" You announce, your voice booming over the Founding Fields. Another Devourer dropship emphasizes your words with a colossal boom, its thrusters firing hard as it banks onto a landing platform.

"Ave Imperator!" The voices chorus back, almost deafening in volume.

"Consider, now, the period which is just drawing to a close at almost the last stage of humanity's grand resurrection!" You announce, making a sweeping gesture with your right hand, a subtle sign of favortism in the local traditions.

"The Imperium grows stronger each day, and we prepare ourselves to finish worthily in the marvelous design of the elect of twenty thousand generations. In the completion that His Imperial Providence has reserved for this fortunate age! Your age!"

>Fellowship test: Command +20. Air of Authority: +10. Test vs 68. Best of three.

Rolled 74

>>26850297

Rolled 61

>>26850297

>>26850297

Rolled 2

>>26850619

>>26850297
So, how's that writing coming along?

>>26850634
>>26850484
>>26850325
You can't see the expressions below you, but the power of your oratory wraps around you like a cloak, your natural air of authority obscuring any doubts you may have of these fresh recruits.

"Yes, men, He-- our Emperor, Praise Be Unto Him-- owes to you an undertaking which has merited the respect and fear of the universe as we know it. You will conquer, because you shall be versed in the Tactica Imperialis, the infallible strategies that have led the Imperium to victory time and time again! It is with these strategies that shall see your world and those you love saved from the foes of the Emperor!"

>>26851559
There's a round of cheers at this. It seems the majority, at least, are eager to fight for the health of their dying world.

"You are not unworthy of the men who fought in Cadian battle lines, and who contended-- not in vain-- with those proud and foul conquerors that served Horus. To this wonderful volume in our Imperium's history another, more glorious page shall be added. You shall forge the chains of weakness that have held you as slaves into the sharpened swords that shall be wielded against the foes of the Imperium!"

Another boom of applause and cheering, your gestures growing increasingly animated.

"I call you to arms! To arms, all of you!" You boom, the vox loudhailers shrieking in your wake. "The oppressors and the mighty shall disappear as dust in the radioactive winds! Let timid doctrinaires depart from amongst your ranks, so they may carry their servility and their miserable fears elsewhere. Humanity is its own master! It wishes to not be brothers with the Xenos, but clearly express its inherent superiority! To look on the insolent with a proud glance, not to grovel before them, imploring for its freedom! No, no, no, I say!" You announce, slamming your fist into your open palm.

"It will not follow in the trail of men whose hearts are foul! No! No! No!" You chant, the men below giving another thunderous cheer, stomping along with each 'No!'

"Imperial Providence has presented Mankind with the Emperor. Every man, woman, and child has rallied around Him! By the side of Him on Terra every quarrel should be forgotten, all rancor departed! Once more I repeat my battlecry!" You boom, to the inspired zeal of those below. "To arms, all of you! Let all of us rally around the glorious God-Emperor of Terra and give the last blow to the crumbling edifice of tyrannical Xenos! Receive now, my gallant young men, one word of advice from me!"

Your greatcloak billows once more as another dropship makes its landing.

>>26851568
"-Struggle-!" You boom, "Your lives shall know it, but it shall purify you! In purity, there is strength and purpose! He on Terra shall smile down upon your days henceforth as the paragons of Humanity, for you shall know no fear!"

The response is deafening. Actually deafening, if you were in front of them and not so high up. The Lord Commissar gives you an appraising look, the slight, imperceptable nod of the head expressing his approval of your rather powerful oratory and its effects. The applause doesn't die down as you depart the podium, arms crates being cracked open as the Commissariat prepare to train the men. The Lord Commissar clasps his hands behind his back.

"Considering the sort of zeal you just inspired in them, sir, we may only need three months to get this lot properly disciplined and trained. I'd dare say you've put quite the fighting spirit in them." He mentions.

However, this raises an interesting point. Three whole months of liberty as the men train. What ways shall you devise to spend this time, until the First Regiment of Vitalitas has completed its Founding?

>[ ] Attempt to continue building political ties (Please specify with whom/what.)
>[ ] Directly oversee the training of the men (Scholastic Lore [Tactica Imperialis] test)
>[ ] Divert Commissariat training personnel to begin work on previously mentioned spy program (May increase recruitment/training time)
>[ ] Other?

>>26851596
>>[ ] Directly oversee the training of the men (Scholastic Lore [Tactica Imperialis] test)
>>[ ] Divert Commissariat training personnel to begin work on previously mentioned spy program (May increase recruitment/training time)
can we do both?

>>26851596
How many actions can we take?

>>26851606
>>26851614
You have three months' time before their training is complete. Generally speaking, you can put as much time as you like into the above tasks, or delegate them, but keep in mind that your general staff is rather small, and time isn't exactly abundant before the regiment is ready to go.

>>26851649
Is it possible to let the Staff handle the spywork while we direct the training? will there be any negative side effects from this?

>>26851649
rating in importance
>>[2 ] Attempt to continue building political ties (Please specify with whom/what.) (Mechanicus for that sweet, sweet artillery)
>>[1] Directly oversee the training of the men (Scholastic Lore [Tactica Imperialis] test)
>>[3 ] Divert Commissariat training personnel to begin work on previously mentioned spy program (May increase recruitment/training time)

>>26851691
If you wish, you could assign a member of your staff to deal with setting up this program. The effect of this, however, would be a decrease in efficiency from the relevant faction (If the Magos, then the Adeptus Mechanicus contingent. If the Lord Commissar, then the regiment's training time/the Commissariat officers.)

On the other hand, it'd allow you to pursue multiple avenues at once.

>>26851705
>>26851606
>In that case, please roll a Scholastic Lore [Tactica Imperialis] test. +20 (Routine), test vs 65. Best of three, please.

Rolled 30

>>26852085

Rolled 17

>>26852085
here we go!

Rolled 57

>>26852085

>>26852165
>>26852183
>>26852229
>Any further actions you wish to pursue, or orders you wish to distribute, before dedicating yourself to the training of the Vitalitas First?

>>26852271
Eh, not really.

>>26852271
make sure our arm candy got a ride home if we didn't before

OP died?

>>26852292
>>26852305
>>26852165
>>26852183
>>26852229
The Guildmaster's daughter is given a suitable ride home in one of the staff cars unloaded. The plush vehicles rather comfortable, though by no means the most lavish thing you've ever ridden in. On this world, they're limousines of the highest order compared to what the common masses and even what the aristocracy utilizes.

The training itself, directed from your impromptu command post atop the massive steel scaffolding at the head of the Founding Fields, is harsh. Harsh even by most Imperial Guard standards, but fitting for the inhabitants of a world that refuses to die.

The training regimen you devise is grueling, but clearly weeds out those incapable of gaining the necessary strength. Your clever use of resources also helps to turn the men into hardened warriors, your training courses melding together various aspects of their eventual operations quite well. Executions for cowardice or other failures are at less than 2%, resulting in only a couple scores of men that needed to be executed for gross negligence or failure. Discipline is kept tight, and you watch as the Commissars put them through their paces.

Entire companies sink in shovels into the hard earth in unison, digging up trenches as heavy stubbers fire live munitions over their heads. Kilometers of concertina wire are laid out, and other men are forced to advance through them. Prop landmines are laid out, and Commissars vigorously beat minesweepers that fail to successfully clear a path. The brutal training over the next three months is supervised by you, the nobles leaving you alone thanks to the intimidating presence of the Lord Commissar at your side.

>>26853686
You watch a Guardsman, his rucksack filled with 60kg of demolition charges, scale a thirty-meter-high rockcrete wall topped with concertina wire as lights strobe around him. Another man, armed with a weighted quarterstaff to represent his lasgun, is cracked in the face by his opponent, the two of them dueling in one of dozens of sunken sparring pits. Flakboard and sandbags are piled high as defenses are erected, dismantled, rigged, and trapped.

The firing ranges stay lit well into the night as the various Companies are pushed to their limits. Twenty-kilometer runs ending with bayonet drills, explosive disarmament tests, and more. It's an absolutely grueling process, and even the Commissars have to switch out on occasion to maintain their stamina, drill instructors hammering these men well past the edges of their own sanity.

Which is exactly when Basilisks pummel the surrounding landscape in smoke rounds, and add another layer of chaos to their training. You are forging grizzled veterans on minimum budget, but you know that all the training in the world will mean little, though your efforts shall ensure that these men tire only under the roughest circumstances. Magos Batt provides a great deal of education on munitions, and it seems that the locals have at least a passing understanding of homemade munitions, which will likely prove useful in time.

The Founding Fields become a personal hell for many, and the executions are simply a positive note. Discipline is harsh and common, and the lash is applied to great use in getting the men into shape. A soldier that fell while performing strategic withdrawal exercises catches a whip square in the crotch, his high-pitched squealing earning him little mercy as the whip continues to come down. A shock maul cracks an inattentive soldier in the knee, bringing him to the ground convulsing.

>>26853695
All of this, just as the Emperor wills, and under your watchful gaze, especially as you make the occasional rounds, ensuring that morale stays high even through this insanely rough treatment.

The third month passes, and finally, the First Vitalitas Siege Regiment is done with its training, at an accelerated rate no less.

The assortment of assets is, needless to say, equally inspiring and equally concerning. For all their training, it is still less than eight thousand men against... How many? Twenty thousand? More? The odds are grim indeed, at least for now.

>Vitalitas First Siege Regiment:
>26 Companies - 300 Guardsmen each.
>10 Siege Infantry Companies - Standard "Line Infantry" of a the Siege Regiment, trained hard and trained well, each Company has a wide assortment of munitions, and is extremely effective in demolition operations.
>6 Armoured Companies - Four Leman Russ Companies, two Chimera transport companies.
>5 Heavy Weapons Companies - Three Fire Support Companies armed with autocannons, one Anti-Tank Support Company equipped primarily with missile launchers and a smattering of lascannons, and one Mortar Support Company.
>4 Field Artillery Companies - Consisting of Basilisk artillery platforms, as well as heavy quad-launchers and heavy mortars.
>1 Special Weapons Company - Armed with flamers, plasma guns, grenade launchers, and other "special" munitions, a catch-all company for soldiers specialized in specific duties such as sniping and engineering.

>[ ] Address the troops? (Please specify how.)
>[ ] Attempt to further political efforts. (Please specify in what manner.)
>[ ] Begin loading the troops into orbit for transit and convene a meeting of the officers to plan the invasion effort.
>[ ] Other?

>>26853722
>[ ] Other?
How did those Commissarial cadets go with the spying activity? What did they uncover?

Also, could we possible call in an old contact in the Navy to get us some more orbital support. We'll have to utilize strategic strikes from orbit to make up for our lack of men.

>>26853722
>[x ] Address the troops? (Please specify how.)
Give another rousing speech, and tell them the Emperor will smile upon their victory.
>[x ] Attempt to further political efforts. (Please specify in what manner.)
Try again to convince the Merchant Guildmaster that his cooperation will not go unnoticed by the Adeptus Mechanicus.

Both of these. We've finished training a month early, we have time.

>>26853803
If you wish, you could order the Commissariat cadets to enact such a plan, but such was not previously viable. Diverting officers away from the training process would have added another month, and with this "free" month earned, you could divert the full numbers of the Commissariat towards such a goal if you wish. Granted, if discovered, such a course of action may not be greeted warmly by the locals. "Foreign spies" may be unwelcome for those who may have a distaste for the Imperium's negligence of the planet.

You could, however, see about getting in touch with the Imperial Navy. Ewa Geema isn't too far away, and its naval focus could be helpful there. Unfortunately, you'll need something to barter with, unless you wish to owe the Imperial Navy a favor in exchange for their immediate support.

The transport vessel you've been given use of, the Serf's Glory, does have point-defense weapons, as well as the abundance of strike craft and landing craft aboard it. It could serve as a weak carrier support vessel for invasion operations, not that you suspect the locals to have much in the way of airpower anyways. Not exactly lance batteries, but it's what you have.

>>26853807
>For a speech, same Fellowship test as before. Command +20, Air of Authority +10, for a Test vs 68. Best of three.

You could attempt to speak with the Merchant Guildmaster if you wish, but it may be prudent to put some of your staff to use while you attend to making the speech. That's what you have them for, after all!

Rolled 99

>>26854073

roll

>>26854384
well, fuck my cock.